BOSTON, December 2, 2025 – Volunteers and staff with the Red Cross of Massachusetts responded to multiple fires over the holiday weekend and continue into today with two large fires overnight in Holyoke.
Friday through Monday, volunteers responded to more than 15 home fires across Massachusetts. Volunteers responded to a gas leak in North Andover Monday, and at fires in Amherst, Chicopee, Framingham, Haverhill, Holden, Holyoke, Hyde Park, Mashpee, Milford, North Attleborough, Salem, Shelburne, Springfield, South Boston, West Springfield, and Waltham. In all, volunteers assisted more than 75 people, with more to be assisted following two fires in Holyoke overnight.
Red Cross volunteers respond to more than 700 fires annually in Massachusetts, distributing financial support to residents burned out of their homes. Volunteers supply the most important services – comfort. Volunteers help people cope with disaster through mental health services, advice on next steps and as neighbors who understand disasters.
The Red Cross is able to support our neighbors through the power of volunteerism and the generous support of financial donors.
For more information about volunteering, visit redcross.org/volunteer. To make a financial donation to support our work, visit redcross.org/donate.
About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.

Amazon Gift Card or new long-sleeve tee for coming to give in December

BOSTON, Dec. 8, 2025 — Time is critical for patients this December. The American Red Cross urges donors to make an appointment to give blood or platelets now to keep the blood supply steady over the busy holiday season. Types O positive, O negative and B negative blood donors are especially needed now and in the coming weeks.
December is National Month of Giving, and your Red Cross blood or platelet donation can bring hope and healing. Create a new holiday tradition and help spread comfort and support lifesaving care. When the unexpected happens, it’s the blood products already on the shelves that matter.
Redefine the meaning of a gift bag; give something that means something and schedule a blood or platelet donation appointment by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
For a limited time, those who come to give Dec. 8-18, 2025, will receive a $15 Amazon Gift Card by email. Those who come to give Dec. 19, 2025-Jan. 4, 2026, will receive an exclusive Red Cross long-sleeved T-shirt, while supplies last. For details on December offers, see RedCrossBlood.org/Gifts. If you’re unable to give, consider making a financial donation to support our lifesaving mission at redcross.org.

Upcoming blood donation opportunities Dec. 8-31, 2025:

Marlboro
12/23/2025: 1 p.m. - 6 p.m., Best Western Royal Plaza Hotel & Trade Center, 181 Boston Post Rd W

Sudbury
12/11/2025: 2 p.m. - 7 p.m., First Baptist Church of Sudbury, 162 Landham Rd
12/24/2025: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., First Baptist Church of Sudbury, 162 Landham Rd



 

 

December 13,   10:00 A.M.  at the
Maplewood Cemetery
Pleasant Street in Marlborough

Come and participate in the distribution of wreaths to Veteran graves

Have you ever thought about tutoring someone in English? Since 1990 the library has been
training adults to become volunteer ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) tutors.
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.

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 Teams, FaceTime, Zoom, telephone and
email as they “meet” with their learners and enjoy both success and personal connection.
We still have learners who need our help.

Registration for tutor training is now open! Two sessions are currently scheduled:

- The January 2026 classes for new ESOL tutors are scheduled for five Wednesday
evenings, 6:00PM – 9:00PM. Dates are January 7, 14, 21, 28 and February 4. Only
the last session will be held in-person in the Wayland Library conference room. The
rest of the sessions will be held on Zoom. Pre-registration is required.

- The Spring 2026 classes for new ESOL tutors will meet on Monday mornings
9:00AM – noon on March 9, 16, 23, 30 and April 6. Only the April session will be
held in-person at the library; all others will be on Zoom. Preregistration is required.
If you are interested in participating, wish to enroll or have questions, please contact Ginny Steel
and Jane Albert at esol@waylandlibrary.org

Taught by local artist Judith-Grace Miller, these 6 week classes start the week of January 5 at the Parish Center for the Arts in Westford and are perfect for beginners and those looking for a refresher working in oil or acrylic. We'll cover design and composition, value, color mixing and more to help you best express yourself as an artist. There will be weekly demos and plenty of personalized easel-side assistance in these small group classes. Choose from day or evening: Monday evenings Jan 5–Feb 9 from 6:30–8:30pm or Wednesday mornings Jan 7–Feb 11 from 10:30am—12:30pm. $275. Instructor will provide materials list upon registration. Register here https://parisharts.square.site/arts-in-the-loft

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

Immigrants in our area who want to improve their competency in English now have greater opportunities.  Fourteen generous and enthusiastic people have just completed a training course and are now certified to be tutors of ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages).  These recent “graduates” include seven from Wayland – Lois Bruss, Sue Feldman, Lidet Girma, John Mead, Dona Mitra, Clinton Savidge and Wendy Sobel; one from Sudbury – Carol Abbot; one from Natick – Ginit Marten; one from Acton – Louisa Chase, one from Wellesley – Jackie Leung: one from Waltham - Mimi Facher; one from Carlisle - Kathy Wasserman; and one from Marlborough - Luba Robidoux. These new tutors, like those who were trained last spring, and some who have been tutoring for years, work one-to-one with learners. Learners currently working with our tutors have come from many different countries, including Korea, Ukraine, Brazil, Bolivia, Mexico, Latvia, Turkey and China.
Much tutoring is now done remotely, using whatever technology works for both tutor and learner, be it FaceTime, Skype, Zoom or simply phone and email.  Some tutor/learner pairs work in person, typically in a local library.
As usual, we can put all possible tutors to work with waiting learners.  The next two tutor-training courses have been scheduled: one starting in January and one starting in early March.  Tutors do not need to know another language, nor do they need to know every detail of English grammar.  For more information see the Wayland Library website.

t is a magical time of year – lights shining bright, ornaments glistening on Christmas trees, and Santa visiting throughout the area.

But for many people, the holiday magic is fraught with anxiety, and they have reached out to the Beacon Santa for help in providing a little Christmas cheer.

And so, we are reaching out – asking you to help us. Please consider donating this year – every little bit helps.

One mother writes that she is struggling to make ends meet, especially after her children’s father died in June. “I am worried that I will not be able to provide my children with a Christmas they deserve because there simply is not anything left for gifts and holiday extras after covering basic needs. I do my best to keep things stable for my children, but the holidays can be especially hard. Your generosity would make a world of difference for my children,” she writes.

One mother struggling to leave an abusive husband is asking for help for three of her five children this year. “I am hoping the holiday season with all its magic of Santa will bring them joy, laughter and smiles during this tough time. I don’t think I will be able to afford gifts under the tree this year and I don’t want to see disappointment and more sadness, so I am reaching out for help,” she writes.

The Beacon Santa Fund, which originated in 1965, raises money to give holiday gift cards to families in 12 communities: Acton, Boxborough, Billerica, Bedford, Concord, Chelmsford, Lexington, Lincoln, Littleton, Maynard, Stow, and Westford.

Beacon Santa turns once again to its readers, without whose generosity some families will not receive holiday help. Donations are tax deductible, of course.

A final note, so that would-be donors can feel assured that their good intentions actually do good. The Board of Directors are all volunteers. Donations are intended entirely to help families in need; no funds are ever diverted for member stipends or salaries.

How to donate
By mail: Beacon Santa Fund, c/o Middlesex Savings Bank, Maynard Crossing, 7 Digital Way, Maynard, MA 01754
By mail:  Beacon Santa Fund, PO Box 643, Maynard, MA  01754
Online: Through PayPal, https://www.paypal.com/fundraiser/charity/1541809.  A PayPal account is not needed to donate.
New this year, you can donate with Venmo:  @beaconsanta1965

Welcome to winter!  The volunteers at Fresh Start on Tuesday morning arrived with the first snow of the season.  Fortunately, it was not enough to necessitate closing.  We had four client visits scheduled but three cancelled because of the weather.   We met our new volunteer & administrative coordinator and look forward to working together.  As we worked, sorting linens, cleaning and testing lamps and small appliances, unloading and loading furniture, and entering items into inventory we shared thoughts about our Thanksgiving celebrations and the Patriots win.
Four (!) trucks arrived filled with linens and blankets and comforters  from the Hudson and Marlborough Lions Clubs who did a blanket drive for us.  Our crew couldn’t get through it all today to make an accurate count.  What a wonderful “Giving Tuesday” gift!

An inventory check showed some gaps in our supplies.  We need new bed pillows and mattresses and box springs for our clients.  Also rugs and dressers.  We seem to always be low on kitchen items like silverware, non-slotted spoons, measuring cups and spoons, strainers, vegetable peelers, tongs, can openers and whisks.

Please check our website to learn more about our organization and help us to help others.  We love cash donations to pay the rent and keep the truck fueled!  We accept small donations on Tuesday and Thursday mornings from 9 until noon.  Furniture donations as well as household items can be brought on Saturday mornings from 8:30-10:30(furniture)and until noon for small items.  We are located at 16 Brent Drive in Hudson.  Check us out!

 

The Lincoln Sudbury Civic Orchestra (LSCO), the community orchestra in residence at the Lincoln-Sudbury Regional High School since 1973, transformed its organization in the summer of 2025. With the enthusiastic support of LSRHS administrative leadership and music faculty, the LSCO formally incorporated as a public charity in Massachusetts and completed all the state and federal filings to be recognized by the IRS as a 501(c)3 organization.

Because of its new formal status, the LSCO formed a board of directors to manage the governance of the organization, maintains a rigorous schedule of board meetings to formalize orchestra policy and artistic plans. Managing Director William Nicholson continues in his vital role of planning and coordinating with Music Director Alfonso Piacentini, now in his third year leading the orchestra. The board works closely with Nicholson and Piacentini to continue to create a welcoming environment for orchestra members and to elevate its mission to bring great classical music to Sudbury and surrounding communities. Also central to the success of the orchestra is the concertmaster Chris Brainard, who plays a critical role in preparation of the parts and supplementing rehearsals for the four string sections.

The LSCO has enjoyed the warm and welcoming relationship with LSRHS for over 50 years. At the end of the 2024-2025 season, orchestra leadership initiated the difficult process of incorporating and formalizing the financial operation separate from the school.

The orchestra seeks and receives annual support from the Massachusetts Cultural Council local councils in Sudbury and Lincoln. Now that the group is a formal public charity, it can apply for grants from foundations and from individuals to cover and increased operating budget. Individuals can make federally tax-deductible donations to the orchestra.

Individuals can donate to LSCO by mailing a personal check or online at the orchestra website. Personal checks can be mailed to Lincoln Sudbury Civic Orchestra, PO Box 178, Hudson, MA 01749. To donate online via Paypal, visit https://www.lscivicorchestra.org/support-lsco. All donations will be acknowledged in writing by the orchestra treasurer in time for filing federal tax returns.

Since 1973, the LSCO has provided opportunities for talented students and supportive adults to perform orchestral literature of the great classical composers. LSCO has provided playing opportunities for over 500 student musicians and given over thirty student and adult concerto artists an opportunity to show their skills and love of classical music. Membership is open to the community regardless of town of residence. The orchestra rehearses every Tuesday evening from 7:30 – 9:30 PM in the large ensemble room at Lincoln-Sudbury Regional High School (LSRHS), 390 Lincoln Rd in Sudbury. Visit the orchestra web site at https://www.lscivicorchestra.org. Musicians interested in joining LSCO should contact the membership coordinator by email at lscivicorchestra@gmail.com, or use the Contact Us link at the orchestra web site.

 

Who: Worcester Chamber Music Society
What: “Baroque on Fire”

Program
Francesco Geminiani | Concerto Grosso #1, after Corelli, in D major, Op. 5
Jean-Philippe Rameau | Fifth Concert in d minor, from Piéces de clavecin en concerts
Domenico Scarlatti | Sonata in d minor K141
Georg Philipp Telemann | Fantasy #1 in B-flat major, TWV 40:14–25 9
Michael Praetorius | Selections from Dances from Terpsichore
Antonio Vivaldi | Concerto for two violins in A minor from L’Estro Armonico, Op. 3 No. 8

When & Where: Thursday, December 4 at 7:30 PM
First Congregational Church
14 Mountain Road, Princeton

Friday, December 5 at  7:30 PM
Museum of Worcester
30 Elm Street, Worcester

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

How: Adult $31-40, Senior $29-38, College Students $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.

 

America is facing a food system shortage. Livestock veterinarians are the new endangered species. Farmers are losing access to the experts they need to keep our food supply safe.
More than 500 U.S. counties across 46 states are federally designated veterinary shortage areas. Just 1.3% of registered veterinarians specialize in food animal practice. This frontline workforce is fraying at a time when U.S. farms produce over 94% of all red meat and poultry Americans consume.
Addressing this growing concern will require sustained industry investment in education that makes veterinary careers more accessible, in recruitment efforts that prioritize rural areas, and in hands-on training that adequately prepares the next generation.
Food animal veterinarians are the unsung heroes of American agriculture. They inspect livestock, administer vaccines, and provide critical guidance on herd health. They support the viability of family farms, local economies, and the safety of the food on our tables.
Yet the United States has lost 90% of food animal veterinarians since the 1950s. And the number of these critical vets continues to decline.
For one, the cost of veterinary education is prohibitive. New graduates leave school with an average debt load of about $150,000. For those called to food animal practice, that financial burden is often compounded by lower pay than they could expect to earn in clinics that focus on companion animals.
Then there's the nature of the work. Rural veterinarians have to travel long distances to reach clients and face physical strain from handling large animals. They're often on call both nights and weekends.
The result is a dwindling workforce.
For farmers, this creates impossible choices: delay care or watch helplessly as animals suffer and operations become less productive. These aren't just emotional losses. They threaten the survival of farms and ranches.
The consequences ripple outward to grocery stores and dinner tables. When veterinary oversight is compromised, it becomes harder to contain the spread of foodborne pathogens. Roughly 9 million Americans fall ill from contaminated food each year -- a number that could soar if we fail to restore the frontline of livestock care.
The shortage could also limit our ability to tackle emerging diseases in animal populations, which often spread quickly through supply chains, and in some cases, jump to humans. Early detection and response require having trained veterinarians on the ground.
There are several things we can do to help overcome this challenge.
Loan repayment and scholarship programs are already making an impact. The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Veterinary Medicine Loan Repayment Program offers up to $40,000 per year for students who commit to working in shortage areas after graduation. My employer, Merck Animal Health, has awarded scholarships and grants to veterinary students, which totaled over $1.5 million in 2024 alone. In July, the company partnered with the Farm Journal Foundation to expand its online educational hub, which features learning modules designed to help students succeed in veterinary careers.
There's room for more public- and private-sector initiatives like these.
Recruitment strategies also need to evolve. Students from rural backgrounds are more likely to return to and serve their home communities. Veterinary schools must do more to identify and support these students.
Equally important is improving the training of future veterinarians. Increasing access to hands-on, experiential, and virtual learning can equip students with the skills they need to succeed.
Revitalizing rural veterinary care isn't just about filling vacancies -- it's about ensuring the vitality of communities and protecting our food supply. By investing in the next generation of livestock veterinarians, we can do just that.
Justin Welsh, DVM, is the executive director of U.S. livestock technical services at Merck Animal Health. This piece originally ran in the Oklahoman.

The Sudbury Historical Society invites everyone to the Sudbury History Center and Museum, 288 Old Sudbury Road (next to Town Hall),  on Saturday, December 6th,  Sunday, December 7th, and Saturday, December 13th between 11:00am to 3:00pm to learn about town history, buy local items from the 01776 Gift Shop, enjoy free kids activities, and donate common household goods to Gifts of Hope Unlimited! Holiday merchandise such as Sudbury ornaments will be available. Bring a donation for Gifts for Hope and receive 10% off your gift shop purchase! Everything from bags, cleaning supplies, detergent, foil, kitchen items, paper products, soap, sponges, utensils, and wipes will be accepted and appreciated.

The Sudbury Historical Commission cordially invites you to join us as at the Historic Hosmer House, 299 Old Sudbury Road, for our annual holiday celebrations on Saturday, December 6th, from 11:00am to 3pm, Sunday, December 7th from 11:00am to 3:00pm and Saturday, December 13th from 11:00am to 3:00pm. Please bring you friends, family and children to experience the charm of this beautifully preserved Town owned landmark which will be fully decorated for the Holiday season. We want to thank the many Sudbury organizations who have helped to decorate Hosmer House using the theme this year of PEACE. Enjoy guided tours, learn about the house's rich past and connect with fellow community members during this Holiday season. Refreshments will be served. Parking is available behind Town Hall and handicapped parking is available along the driveway.

 

Volunteers needed to bring joy to families in need this holiday season
CANTON, MASS. (November 3, 2025) – With the holiday season approaching, The Salvation Army Massachusetts Division is kicking off its annual Red Kettle Campaign across the Commonwealth, and volunteers are urgently needed in nearly every region.
As more families across Massachusetts face economic hardship, inflation and housing costs heading into the holidays, the need for The Salvation Army's services continues to grow. The organization serves as a critical safety net, providing Christmas gifts and food, offering emergency assistance with bills, and providing shelter to those without a home. All Red Kettle proceeds support The Salvation Army's work with individuals and families right in the communities where donations are collected. On average, volunteer bell ringers raise enough money to provide nearly 250 meals to children and families in their respective towns. The theme of this year’s campaign is “Give With JOY.”
“Each act of generosity, large or small, helps The Salvation Army make the season brighter for families across Massachusetts,” said Major Elijah Kahn, General Secretary of The Salvation Army Massachusetts Division. “Our volunteers and donors embody the spirit of the holidays and make it possible for us to bring joy where it’s needed most.”
The first local Red Kettle campaigns of 2025 kick off across the state in November. Areas with upcoming campaign launches that are in need of volunteers and support include: the Merrimack Valley, Cape Cod and Southeastern Massachusetts (Hyannis, Fall River, and New Bedford), the North Shore (Newburyport, Salem, and Lynn), MetroWest, Mass Bay/Boston, the Route 2 area (Athol, Greenfield, and Fitchburg), as well as Western (Springfield and Pittsfield) and Central Massachusetts (Milford and Worcester).
The Salvation Army Massachusetts Division is working to raise more than $2.3 million through this year’s Red Kettle Campaign to support critical year-round social services. Donations can be made in person at a Red Kettle or virtually.
To volunteer at a Red Kettle or donate online, visit salvationarmyma.org/redkettle.

About The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army helps more than 28 million people in nearly every zip code in America overcome poverty, addiction, and economic hardships through a range of social services. By providing food for the hungry, emergency relief for disaster survivors, rehabilitation for those suffering from substance abuse, and clothing and shelter for people in need, The Salvation Army is doing the most good at our more than 7,400 centers of operation around the country. In 2024, Forbes ranked The Salvation Army 6th in its list of America’s Top 100 Charities. And in 2021, The Chronicle of Philanthropy ranked The Salvation Army 2nd on its list of “America’s Favorite Charities.” For more information about supporting The Salvation Army or your local service centers, visit salvationarmyma.org. Follow us on X @SalvationArmyMA and #DoingTheMostGood.

The Nashoba Symphonic Band, David Wayne Bailey, Music Director, will present its first Chamber Music Concert of the 2025-26 Season on Sunday, December 7th at 2 pm in the auditorium of the Nashoba Regional High School, Route 117 (GPS Green Road), Bolton MA. Admission is Free!

The concert features three performing groups comprised of members of the Nashoba Symphonic Band. The NSB Clarinet Choir will play the Overture to Humperdinck's Hansel and Gretel, Mozart's Divertimento No.14 and Christmas Day, a medley of familiar carols by British composer, Gustav Holst. The Trombone Ensemble offers several selections, including music by Mendelssohn, Weber and Scott Joplin. Rounding out the program will be the NSB Chamber Players with Tower Music by Massachusetts-born Alan Hovhaness and Robert Nagel's Serenade for Winds.

Nashoba Symphonic Band is a program of the Nashoba Regional High School Friends of Music and supported, in part, by the kind grants of cultural councils in Bolton, Lancaster, Stow, Clinton, Ashby and Lunenberg, local agencies supported by the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency.

 

Marlborough – State Senator Jamie Eldridge (D-Marlborough), State Representative Danielle Gregoire (D-Marlborough), and State Representative Carmine Gentile (D-Sudbury), are proud to announce that the Executive Office of Economic Development has awarded $50,000 to the Marlborough Economic Development Corporation through the Community One Stop for Growth grant program.
The funding comes from the Community One Stop for Growth program, the main operation for targeted public economic development investments in the Commonwealth. The One Stop is made up of 13 different grant programs that fund development projects related to community capacity building, planning and zoning, site preparation, building construction, and infrastructure. The consolidation of these programs under a single application streamlines grant procurement processes for municipalities as well as the Commonwealth.
The MA Vacant Storefront Program will fund the Marlborough Economic Development Corporation, which plans to use the awarded $50,000 to encourage businesses to occupy long-time vacant storefront across the downtown district and other commercial areas. The program aims to identify potential business opportunities that will complement and contribute to the community of existing businesses in the area.
“The MA Vacant Storefront Program provides vital support for revitalizing downtown commercial spaces and strengthening Marlborough’s local economy,” said Senator Jamie Eldridge (D-Marlborough). “This investment will help transform long-vacant storefronts into thriving small businesses that create jobs, attract visitors, and enhance the sense of community in our downtown. I’m deeply grateful to the Healey-Driscoll Administration and Secretary Eric Paley for recognizing the importance of investing in local economic development and helping cities like Marlborough build inclusive commercial districts that serve both residents and entrepreneurs.”
“The Marlborough Economic Development Corporation has a long history of success in downtown Marlborough. This grant furthers investment that will drive our economy and draw more people downtown by expanding the goods and services offered to residents and visitors,” said Rep. Danielle Gregoire
“Thank you to Secretary Paley and EOED for this important investment. The city of Marlborough has a beautiful and vibrant downtown, and I am very pleased to see the Healey/Driscoll Administration making an investment to support and further develop this community asset that the whole region benefits from,” said Rep. Carmine Gentile.
“I want to thank the Marlborough Economic Development Corporation for applying for this grant. This funding opportunity can make a significant impact for an entrepreneur who wants to open a small business here in our City. I want to thank MEDC, the State Legislators, and the Executive Office of Economic Development for understanding the challenges of starting a business and investing in revitalizing Marlborough’s Downtown District,” said Mayor Christian Dumais. 

SAGA (Stow Area Guild of Artists) is sponsoring an indoor holiday fair of handmade art and still has a few 8x8 foot spaces available. The art fair runs Sat. Dec. 13 - 10-4 and Sun. Dec. 14 12-4 at the Pompo Community Center in Stow.  Booth fee is $50 for non-SAGA members and $35 for members.  No commissions from the artists. You will be with painters, photographers, potters, jewelers and other talented artisans. Deadline for signing up is 11/22.  If interested please go to  https://www.stow-artists.org and complete the contact form on the join us tab.

As the holidays approach—and with Hanukkah beginning early this year—partner organizations of The Sudbury-Wayland-Lincoln Domestic Violence Roundtable are once again conducting Holiday Drives to make the season brighter for survivors of domestic abuse and their children.
Many families are struggling with the loss of SNAP benefits and the prospect of higher health care costs making these holiday drives especially meaningful this year.
Even small contributions—especially gift cards that offer choice and dignity—make a lasting difference for survivors working toward safety and stability.
If you are able, please consider supporting one of the following Holiday Gift Drives organized by our partners listed below.
The most meaningful gifts are the ones that offer choice and empower survivors to select gifts for their families. Gift cards give families the freedom to pick what they truly need or something special to make the holidays brighter.
Gift cards for Shaw’s, Market Basket, Stop and Shop, Target, Walmart or Visa Cash Cards are especially helpful. If you prefer, you can also make a cash donation or send a check that allows Roundtable partner agencies to purchase gift cards for the families they serve.
Some service providers also accept new donated gifts. Please check the list on the Roundtable website to see which ones are accepting holiday gifts.
More detailed information about our partners’ Holiday Drives can be found on the Roundtable website at www.domesticviolenceroundtable.org .

 

In keeping with its mission statement Thimble Pleasures Quilt Guild has chosen “Creating Comfort” for the theme of its upcoming quilt show theme. The guild members involve themselves in various outreach charity programs both locally and nationally that create comfort for others. For many years the members have been visiting local nursing and assisted living facilities to work with the residents in designing their own lap quilts. These lap quilts are then sewn by the guild members and returned to the residents during a Reveal Party. From February to October of this year the guild made a total of 136 lap quilts for these residents and many more extra lap quilts made for residents who were not able to attend the design session.
In addition to lap quilts members also make fidget quilts that are distributed to nursing homes as well as to members’ family and friends who might need them. Placemats are also made in the spring and for the winter holidays and given to a local Senior Centers. The receiving Senior Center is done by a drawing held during a guild meeting. Chemo caps are made and donated to UMass Memorial Hospital or given to local residents who are undergoing chemo therapy and in need of these caps. Brian’s Quilts, flannel-backed small quilts made for children, are given to local police departments to carry in their cruisers to comfort a child in need due to accident, fire or family need.
Nationally, the guild participates is distributing Kennel Quilts to rescue leagues working in disaster stricken areas. Kennel Quilts are sent out to areas of our country that are rescuing animals from forest fires, earthquakes, floods, hurricanes, or blizzards. More than 50 Kennel quilts have been distributed this year to these areas.
A new project, Kitten Bags, is providing cotton drawstring bags filled kitten toys and treats and given when a kitten is adopted from the Blackstone Valley Regional Animal Shelter.
In addition to these projects the guild also donates full-sized quilts through its Comfort Quilt program. These quilts are given to those in need and to people whose story has touched our members with joy, loss, stress, illness, and in many other ways. These quilts are also donated to support groups such as the End of Life Program at Milford Regional Medical Center. Many quilts have also been sent to the Ukraine to support refugees there as well as to areas of the United States which have experienced disasters.
Examples of all these projects can be seen at the Thimble Pleasures Quilt Guild biennial quilt show on March 15-16 from 10:00-4:00 P.M. at the Blackstone Valley Regional Vocational Technical High School in Upton. A display and demonstrations of the making of these items will also take place at the show.

Memorial Congregational Church (Concord Rd. and Church St., Sudbury) is excited to once again host our Silver Bells Holiday Fair!

On Friday evening Nov. 21st from 6-8 entrance fee will be $5 (with 50% going to support Open Table Food Pantry) with complimentary punch and hors d’oeuvres. Most shoppes will be open for first peeks and picks!

On Saturday, November 22nd from 9am to 3pm there will be no entrance fee—just a fun day of holiday cheer and shopping.

Come find Christmas decorations, a handcrafted item, a juicy grilled burger for lunch, a treat from our bake table, homemade novelty chocolates, a piece of jewelry you can’t resist, and puzzles, books, and games to entertain you through our cold, dark winter. Take a chance on our beautiful handmade raffle items, and grab one or more white elephants that are just what you’ve been looking for.

The Book Shoppe will feature several treats this year! Enjoy special music by Matteo, story time with Mrs. Claus, and crafts for kids!.

See you all at the Silver Bells Holiday Fair!

Marlborough Historical Society
377 Elm Street, Marlborough
Saturday, December 6
11:00 AM- 3:00 PM

Santa will be there 12-2:00   
Join us for an old time “Country Christmas”.

Come and enjoy the warmth of the Homestead, baked foods, warm cake,hot chocolate, coffee and tea.

$5.00 per family
Parking is available in the lot across the street

It is with great pleasure that Groton Grange #7, with The Contra Banditos, host a One Time Holiday Contra Dance Extravaganza. We will be honoring our internationally celebrated 95 year old Barn Dance Caller, the "one and only", Mr. Dudley Laufman (read his Wikipedia page). The dance will be held December 6th, 7:30 to 10:30 PM, at the Groton Grange #7, 80 Champney St, Groton. All ages, beginner and experienced dancers, are invited. Dudley Laufman will be the caller. Refreshments will be served. Admission is $6 per person; family maximum is $20. PARK ON GRANGE SIDE OF CHAMPNEY ST. ONLY.

 

Armistice Day recognizes Peace. Veterans Day recognizes war, sacrifice, and militarism. We need to change Veterans Day back to its original designation - Armistice Day.
The Great War (World War I) concluded November 11, 1918, with an end of hostilities between the Central Powers and the Allied Powers. The first Armistice Day was celebrated exactly one year later to commemorate Peace and World War I veterans. President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed it: “a day to be dedicated to the cause of World Peace and to be thereafter celebrated through the exercise of good will and mutual understanding.” In 1938, Congress made it a national holiday.
President Eisenhower, following WWII and Korea with pressure from Veterans groups, changed the name in 1954. Veterans Day has become largely ceremonial and patriotic emphasizing military pride and sacrifice. Armistice Day was recognized with ringing church bells and speeches calling for Peace. Groups reflected on the costs of war and advocated for international cooperation.
Changing back to Armistice Day doesn’t mean disrespecting veterans. In fact, many veterans support the idea — believing that the best way to honor them is to prevent future wars. As veteran and historian Howard Zinn once said: “Another Memorial Day. Another war. Yes, let's honor those who died in the nation's many wars. But if we do not want to keep adding to the soldiers' graves, let's also ask why they died.” (2005)
This country spends an extraordinary amount of money on war making. And, it has been in perpetual war since Eisenhower’s renaming. Changing the holiday back to Armistice Day might help us recognize the need for diplomacy over war and shift our focus to creating Peace and abandoning warfare.
I encourage local churches to ring their bells eleven times at 11:00AM every November 11th to commemorate the end of The Great War and to support Peace in our badly fractured world.

Willard Hunter
Veterans For Peace
US Navy 1968-1972

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Citation (APA style):
Wilson, W. (1919, November 11). Proclamation 1872—Armistice Day, 1919. The American Presidency Project. https://www.presidency.ucsb.edu/documents/proclamation-1872-armistice-day-1919

Saturday, November 22, 2025, 9am – 4pm
1870 Town Hall, 12 Woodward Ave, Berlin MA 01503

Berlin, MA -- The 16th Annual Berlin Arts and Fine Crafts Fair will be held on Saturday, November 22nd, from 9am - 4pm, at 1870 Town Hall.

Expect to find over 30 wonderful artists, artisans and crafters who will be bringing jewelry, pottery, fiber arts, woodworking, ornaments, baskets, artwork, bath and body Items, photography, baked goods, leatherwork, stained glass and other great gift ideas. We are full-up on vendor space, with a waitlist to fill last minute cancellations, so we expect both floors of the building to be full and festive!
Established in 2009, this juried Fair has grown into a popular high quality, locally made shopping event that draws customers from the local community and beyond.

Directions to 1870 Town Hall: Take exit 67 off Rt 495, turn left onto Rt 62 West, follow Rt 62 West for approx 2 miles to Woodward Ave on the right.

Do you feel a strong sense of emotional attachment toward your possessions?
Would you like to be able to invite family and friends into your home but are too embarrassed?
Come join with us weekly as, together, we read “BURIED in TREASURES” second edition by David Tolin, Randy Frost and Gail Steketee starting November 18, 2025 from 2 to 3:30pm at the Recovery Connection, 31 Main St, Marlboro, MA 508 485-0298

Marlborough -- The Marlborough Garden Club will kick off the holiday season with its annual Holiday Boutique on Saturday, Dec. 6, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the 1 Lt Charles W. Whitcomb Middle School, 25 Union St., Marlborough.
This very popular event features original, one-of-a-kind creations – fresh green arrangements, wreaths, swags, centerpieces, as well as baked goods and handcrafted items – all created by members. This is the 47th year the Marlborough Garden Club has held its Boutique, offering members of the community the perfect place to select festive seasonal decor for their homes and to pick up thoughtful and unique gifts.
The Holiday Boutique is a fundraising tradition that supports the Club’s many philanthropic activities, including beautification efforts throughout Marlborough, community educational programs, and scholarships for Marlborough students.
About the Marlborough Garden Club
Founded in 1959, the Marlborough Garden Club today is an active non-profit organization dedicated to beautification, education, and conservation to improve the City of Marlborough. Throughout the year, the Club offers programs on horticultural or environmental topics which are open to the public. For more information, visit www.marlboroughgardenclub.org