Boys & Girls Clubs of Metrowest Appoints Five New Board Members

MARLBOROUGH: The Boys & Girls Clubs of MetroWest (BGCMW) added five new members to the Board of Directors. Joining the Finance and Operations committee includes Robert Borek, VP, Director of Operations at The TJX Companies; Margaret DeLanders, Attorney at Bowditch & Dewey; Christopher Tracy, Vice President, Financial Advisor at Morgan Stanley and Jeffrey Tucker, EVP – Strategy & Risk Management at Main Street Bank. Joining the Resource Development committee is Angela Scott, as a community volunteer. Jason Kleinerman, a partner at The Rail Trail Flatbread Co. is also joining the Finance and Operations committee.

BGCMW Board members play a critical role in the success of Club programs for youth. Their responsibilities include setting the organization's strategic direction, overseeing its financial management, and ensuring that it operates in compliance with legal and ethical standards. Board members bring diverse skills and perspectives to the table, as well as a passion for the organization's mission. This varied board will additionally establish the Boys & Girls Clubs as a powerful supporter for young people in all the communities they operate in. Ultimately, the top priority is to give a voice to youth and encourage them to speak up throughout this year.

St. Stephen Lutheran Church Welcomes New Pastor

MARLBOROUGH: Parishioners at St. Stephen Lutheran Church welcomed a new pastor recently, and the warmth of that welcome has brought joy to Pastor Rheanna Goodrich and her family as they settle in to their new home. “The call has been amazing so far,” says Pr Rheanna.
“The congregation has been so welcoming to our family, and super supportive.”

At St. Stephen, the new pastor is “looking forward to getting to know everybody here, working with people to figure out what comes next.” Her focus is both the church and the Marlborough-Hudson community. She notes that “a lot of people don’t know Jesus, a loving, benevolent God. There is so much pain and brokenness.” The call of the church, she says “is to help heal.”

Pr Rheanna comes to SSLC from Michigan, where she has spent the major portion of her life, but New England is also in her background. Born in Montana, she lived with her parents and sister in New Hampshire from age 2 to Grade 4, and has fond memories of outdoor activities. “We ran around in the woods all the time and loved playing outside.” Her family attended Baptist and Episcopal churches, but she came back to her Lutheran roots in Michigan during her high school years. Her faith was important, but Pr. Rheanna didn’t realize then that it would become her vocation and went on to earn a BS in English with a focus in Creative Writing at
Central Michigan University. After graduation, “I quickly realized I needed a job and went into business,” she recalls of her time spent managing apartment complexes. “Then God got involved.”

Active in her congregation leading programs, and serving as council president, the thought of becoming a pastor emerged, but she was unsure “whether I wanted to take on the responsibility in my 20s.” She was now married - she and Mara will mark their 21 st anniversary this summer. Talking with Mara and her pastor, eventually “there were enough signs that I couldn’t ignore it. This was in my heart.” She enrolled in the five year program at Trinity Lutheran Seminary in Columbus, Ohio, and daughter Kaili, now 12, was born during this time. Pr Rheanna accepted a first call to a church in Au Gres, MI, “a lovely, rural community experience,” and a second call to Bridgeport, MI, closer to Mara’s work.

Accepting her third call meant a move to Massachusetts for the family of three and four cats. “It is fabulous to be back in a place of diverse culture, people, language, and food,” she says. The family likes the outdoors, especially hiking, biking, and camping. Pr Rheanna also enjoys creative writing, including science fiction as well as poetry. Among many new and old adventures, she would love to try snowshoeing again, take Kaili to Hampton Beach, to experience it as she had as a child, and all three would like to explore Salem, and the history of a very distinct era. “We were looking for a new adventure,” Pr. Rheanna says with a smile, adding that “New England is a homecoming for me and had everything we were looking for.”

For more information about the church, visit www.saintstephenlutheran.com or the church’s Facebook page. Saint Stephen is a member of the New England Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (www.elca.org) . The church is a Reconciling in Christ congregation, welcoming to all. Parishioners come from Marlborough, Hudson, Berlin, Northborough, Southborough, Westborough, Shrewsbury, Sudbury, Stow and Bolton. Sunday worship is at 10am, with Sunday School at 9am.

Rotary Club of Nashoba Valley Awards Scholarships to Local Students for Upcoming (RYLA) Conference in June

The Rotary Club of Nashoba Valley announced that it has awarded scholarships to this year’s Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) Conference to be held in June. The lucky scholarship winners are Nevaeh Duplessis, Vincenzo Porfino, Riley Dinjian and Madison Oxnard.

Robert Johnson, local Committee Chairperson, said that the chosen students will be among the more than 150 Massachusetts high school sophomores who will attend the RYLA Conference. Aimed at developing the leadership potential of young men and women, the conference will feature many thought-provoking events including interactive Leadership Labs, exciting guest speakers, and challenging mental and physical activities that will provide the participants with a chance to excel amongst and with their peers. Topics will include decision-making, critical thinking, communicating effectively, ethics, and public service. To be chosen, the candidates needed to qualify by showing leadership potential and good citizenship characteristics and showing a strong desire to attend and benefit from the conference. Additionally, in their individual interviews, they needed to stand out from the other applicants.

Congratulations from the Rotary Club of Nashoba Valley to this year’s scholarship winners and their families! Anyone interested in obtaining further information should visit www.ryla7910.org or contact
Robert Johnson at johnson@itesafety.com, (978) 875-3143 or any other member of the Nashoba Valley Rotary Club.

Algonquin Regional High School’s Inclusive DECA Program Presents A Fashion Show

NORTHBOROUGH: Algonquin comes alive with style when the Inclusive DECA Program presents a fashion show on March 30 at 6pm at Algonquin High School, 79 Bartlett Street. Experience a runway show of eclectic outfits individually chosen by Inclusive DECA students to showcase their personal style with support from club advisor Zbysia Giegucz, their peers, and members of the Algonquin Fashion Club. There will also be a concession table with light refreshments. Admission is $8 at the door. Proceeds support the continuation of Inclusive DECA, a self-funded program. Attendees are also encouraged to bring a non-perishable food item to support community food banks.

"Every year we set up a different type of business for the kids to be involved in from start to finish," said Ms. Giegucz. "In past years we have created a business model to make and sell items, but this year I wanted to do something different with them. A fashion show event lets them showcase what they have been learning about, such as appropriate dress for job interviews and other events. Over the years, it has been exciting to see how working on these business projects and events brings out the potential in each student and helps them figure out what skills they are good at. And most of all, they have fun!"

Inclusive DECA is a business club for students with and without intellectual disabilities. Students learn the basics of business processes such as interview skills, marketing, inventory control, working in groups, money management, and so much more with hands-on activities to create products and plan events. The ultimate goal is for students to learn lifelong business skills that they will carry over to future jobs after they leave Algonquin.

SVT Conserves Berlin Property

SUDBURY: Sudbury Valley Trustees (SVT), a nonprofit conservation organization that works in 36 cities and towns, recently worked with the Town of Berlin to protect 44 acres of open space off Highland Street in the northern part of town. SVT has given the name Highland Ridge Woods to this new conservation area. The organization plans to work with the Town of Berlin to create public hiking trails at the site.

The Highland Ridge Woods property encircles the new Homes at Highland Ridge 55+ community. During the permitting process for the housing development, the Town of Berlin required that these 44 acres be permanently conserved as open space. This resulted in the landowner donating the land to SVT.

“SVT was happy to accept the donation and permanently protect this land,” said Meredith Houghton, SVT Senior Land Protection Specialist. “The property features a rich diversity of wildlife habitats. It sits in a white pine forest with a mix of young and old trees, and it also plays a role in flood protection for the surrounding area.”

In the coming months, SVT will grant a conservation restriction (CR) on the property to the Berlin Conservation Commission. The CR is a legal agreement that will permanently restrict development and become part of the property deed. By holding the CR, the Conservation Commission can ensure that this land will remain undeveloped.

“The Town wanted these 44 acres to be protected as open space, so we were pleased that SVT was able to take ownership of the property,” said Carolyn MacDonald, chair of the Berlin Conservation Commission. “We have worked with SVT on several previous conservation projects in Berlin, so we knew the organization would take good care of the land and its wildlife habitats.”

The Town of Berlin holds a trail easement across the Highland Ridge Woods property. Together, SVT and the Town will create hiking trails that will give the public permanent access to this new conservation land.

PHOTO: The 44-acre Highland Ridge Woods property will be permanently conserved as open space with hiking trails for public enjoyment.

Save A Dog Miles for Mutts

MARLBOROUGH: Lace up those sneakers and help some homeless dogs in the process! Save a Dog is excited to bring back their 5k Road Race - Miles for Mutts! Run or walk this officially timed, scenic 5k course. 100% of proceeds benefit Save A Dog of Sudbury's mission to rescue and rehome all breeds of dogs. The race will be held on April 8 starting at the Moose Lodge, 67 Fitchburg Street, and go along the scenic Assabet River Valley Rail Trail. Check-in and bib pick-up starts at 8:30am and the race starts at 10am. $35 for ages 18+ and $25 for under 18. Dogs are welcome with walkers only. Register now for Save A Dog's Miles For Mutts 5K Race/Walk at miles4mutt5k.racewire.com. T-shirts and swag bags to the first 100 registered! All proceeds directly benefit Save A Dog's mission to rescue dogs.

Musician Matt Nakoa to Perform Two Concerts to Support Sudbury's Historic Meetinghouse

SUDBURY: Visit Sudbury's Meetinghouse for two concerts with Matt Nakoa—an accomplished songwriter, composer, pianist, and guitarist. Concerts include the Matt Nakoa Songwriter Concert on April 15, 7:30-9:30pm, and the Matt Nakoa Songwriter Classical Concert on April 16, 3-4:30pm. All proceeds will go to support Sudbury's historic Meetinghouse! Tickets may be purchased at the door or online in advance at $25 per person.

Nakoa's piano music has received favorable reviews in publications including The New York Times, and his film scoring has been featured by Disney. He now tours regularly with folk music icon Tom Rush. Though not easily pinned down, “In sum,” as a recent review put it, “Matt Nakoa is musically adept, one of those well-kept secrets you just can’t help but celebrate: intimate and genuine soulful and bittersweet, a rich poetic songbook sung in praise to a complicated, emotionally present world.”

The Saturday night April 15 show will feature his original songs performed on piano and guitar. On Sunday, April 16, Matt will perform his original classical compositions on the newly restored Steinway.

Visit fpsudbury.org for details and the ticket link. First Parish of Sudbury is located at 327 Concord Road. For additional info contact office@fpsudbury.org or (978) 443-2043.3

SGCC Spring Programming at Unitarian Church of Marlboro & Hudson

HUDSON: The Unitarian Church of Marlborough and Hudson (UCMH). 80 Main Street, is pleased to announce that we have resumed in-person programming through our Spiritual Growth and Community Center (SGCC). The spring calendar is in full swing, and new participants are warmly welcomed! Offerings include:

* Free Your Inner Artist! Second Wednesdays, 7-9pm in Union Hall ($5 suggested donation) – Freeform exploration of abstract art using acrylic paint and found objects.
* Open Creativity: First and third Thursdays, 7-9pm in Union Hall ($5 suggested donation) – Bring your creative project-in-progress, or just a desire to explore the possibilities in the company of other creatives. Coffee and inspiration provided!
* Pub Theology: Second Thursdays, 7-9pm at Lost Shoe Brewing and Roasting (no fee to attend, purchase your own refreshments) – All are welcome to engage in deep, respectful, and reflective conversation over drinks. Theme changes monthly.
* FreeDrum: First Saturdays, 7-10pm ($5 for adults, kids under 13 free) – Dave “Drumhead” Curry leads an evening of high-energy, freestyle drumming and dancing that welcomes all ages and skill levels.
* New Age Spiritualist Collaborative: Meetings monthly, fourth Thursdays ($5 suggested donation) – Explore modalities such as mediumship, divination, energy healing and astrology with the aim of evolving consciousness by understanding our soul's place in the Universe.

For full information about these and other events, visit www.ucmh.org, or email the church office at administrator@ucmh.org. The SGCC is an outreach program of the Unitarian Church of Marlborough and Hudson that provides inspirational programs, classes and events to awaken peace, joy, love, compassion, personal growth, and creativity. All programs are open to the community and all are welcome.

Walk 'n Mass Volkssport Club Invites Walkers to Complete in 5km or 10km

HOLLISTON: The Walk 'n Mass Volkssport Club invites walkers to complete a 5km or 10km (3.1 or 6.2 mile) walk route and join in on the Club’s Soup Social April 1. This is a walk-at-your-own pace, just-for-fun event “in your own backyard”. The start point is the First Congregational Church, 725 Washington Street. The 5km start time is 10:15- 11am and the 10km start time is 9-10am. The walk times are staggered so that walkers will finish shortly before noon when the soups are served.

The 10km walk is comprised of two loops and the first loop, much of which is on flat paved surfaces, is also the 5km route. The 5km loop traverses through downtown before venturing into the Mudville neighborhood. A tribute to Casey at the Bat and Irish immigrants who originally settled Mudville will be seen before heading to Arch Street walking under a 1-arch railroad bridge, listed in the Guiness Book of World Records as the smallest railroad bridge in the world. Walkers will then head up to the Upper Charles Rail Trail to Blair Square and continue on the Rail Trail. If conditions do not allow walking on the Rail Trail over the 8-Arch Bridge a parallel street route will be used offering a view of it. The second loop of the 10km route travels through the Thomas Hollis Historic District with stately antique colonial homes dating to the early 19th century.

Volkssporting events sponsored by Walk 'n Mass Volkssport Club promote fun, fitness and friendship through non-competitive walking and biking free to the public. There is also an achievement awards program through the “AVA America’s Walking Club” call (774) 279-0740, email wkearnso@gmail.com or visit www.walknmass.org.

The Lincoln Sudbury Civic Orchestra Appoints Chris Brainard as Concertmaster

SUDBURY: Chris Brainard takes on the role of Concertmaster of the Lincoln Sudbury Civic Orchestra, a community orchestra resident at the Lincoln-Sudbury Regional High School now celebrating its 50th year.

Brainard, a resident of Maynard, has extensive performance experience, performing in symphony orchestras, musical theater/pit orchestras, and chamber groups across New England. When she is not performing, Brainard teaches elementary and middle school strings in the Lexington Public Schools, where she's been inspiring young musicians since 2010. At eight years old, Brainard began studying the violin with Laurie Kennedy, principal violist of the Portland Symphony, in a public school music program in central Maine. After six months in the program, she came home and announced that she wanted to be a violinist when she grew up. She worked towards that goal throughout her formative years in Maine and then earned a bachelor’s degree in Music Education from Boston University, where she studied violin with Yuri Mazurkevich, and received a Master of Music in Music Education from the University of Connecticut. She began her tenure with the Lincoln Sudbury Civic Orchestra as a substitute player in the viola section in 2017 and was excited about moving into this role. “Being given a leadership opportunity was appealing,” said Chris Brainard. “I do a lot of section playing yet only a small number of people can sit in the front row. So this is a different experience and, as a music educator, it’s important to sit on the other side of the baton. I’m enjoying applying my leadership skills to this position.”

Managing Director William Nicholson is excited to have Brainard in this role. “I recognized the strong values and skills Chris has in her string playing along with her leadership skills and confidence. I am happy to have her valuable voice and expertise as Concertmaster and part of the orchestra’s leadership team.”

When she is not teaching or performing, Brainard is an avid hiker and backpacker, having completed the Appalachian and Pacific Crest Trails, and is making plans to finish the Continental Divide Trail in 2023.

The LSCO will celebrate its 50th anniversary in a gala concert on June 11 at 3pm at the Lincoln-Sudbury Regional High School, 390 Lincoln Road. Music Director Alfonso Piacentini will lead the orchestra, and guest conductors Pip Moss and Luca Antonucci, both former conductors of the orchestra will also be featured. Admission is a suggested donation of $20.

Founded in 1973 as a community orchestra for high school musicians to work with adult musicians of Lincoln and Sudbury, LSCO begins its 50th year in operation. The group is always looking for new players. Interested amateur musicians are welcome and encouraged to contact the orchestra leadership by email at lscivicorchestra@gmail.com. Visit LSCO at https://lscivicorchestra.org.

Westborough Hosts Annual Town-Wide Litter Clean-up

WESTBOROUGH: Join Westborough's annual Town-Wide Litter Clean-Up sponsored by the Westborough Community Land Trust, and enjoy a drop-in Earth Day Volunteers’ pizza picnic lunch afterwards! Come on your own, or rally your family, co-workers, or neighbors and form a team to beautify our town! Go to https://westboroughlandtrust.org/earth-day-signup between April 1-6 to sign up and choose an area to clean. Trash bags will be dropped off at participants’ homes by the April 7, or if necessary, you can arrange to pick up. Clean your chosen area any day or time from April 8 to noon on April 15. Leave closed bags by the road in the area you cleaned, and they will be removed on April 15. Then head over to Bay State Commons on April 15, from 11:30am-12:30pm, for an appreciation picnic of pizza with all the sides and live music! For questions contact earthday@westboroughlandtrust.org.

SAVE THE DATE: "The Power of Angels" 2023 Kitty Angels Fundraiser May 6 & 7

AMHERST, NH: Plans are coming together for another fabulous fundraiser for Kitty Angels, Inc., so mark your calendars! This year’s event will take place on May 6 & 7, from 9am-5pm at Treasures Antiques and Collectables, 106 Ponemah Road (Route 122). Yes, pets are always welcome! The kitties and vendors have taken the necessary precautions and are excited to have you get out of the house and come visit with them for some fabulous finds, great “free” entertainment and most important of all, to help Kitty Angels!

Look for all your favorite vendors, including artist Eric Nickola, dba WolfpacStudios, Artist Lori-Ellen Budenas of Respect the Wood, Monica Gesualdo of Trading Faces, Food Vendor B’s Grumman Grub, Heart’s Design Jewelry. Forever Clean Soaps, Gabe’s Creations, LAB House, Shire Enduring Creations, Dubz Dyes, Morel Woodworking, Baby Snuggz, SoGo Metal Art, Happy Cat Creations, Vinyl Revival, Dusty Finds, Blueberry Cove Creations, Damsel In Defense, Willey’s Whirleys, Baboosic Lake Gourds, Anthony Acres, Color Street, Paws & Spas, Lynda’s Felted Critters, Custom Care Designs, Fiber Art by Eve Huston, Cam’s Shop, Amherst Animal Hospital and so many more. The bands and soloists for the event, consist of keyboardist/band member Joey Peavey, Side Effects, Jensing, North Sound Duo, Jeff Damon, Sunset Rhythm and Wildwood.

Featured throughout the fundraising weekend and into the month of June, is an electrifying raffle of numerous and diverse prizes, all generously donated by local and national businesses, professional sports teams, private individuals and some of the awesome on-site vendors.

Kitty Angels, Inc. is the sole beneficiary of this event. They are a no-kill cat shelter and are made up of all unpaid volunteers, dedicated to rescuing stray and abandoned cats and kittens, furnishing them with treatment for injuries or other health issues and then placing them into new forever homes with compatible owners. They are a non-profit, 501(C)3 charitable corporation where all donations are fully tax-deductible and every penny of every donation is used in the caring of cats. Consider adopting a new life-long forever-friend!

Interested in becoming a vendor at the event? Contact Sherry or Rick Tobin, at (603) 672-2535.

SVT Expands Grist Mill Pond Conservation Area

MARLBORO/SUDBURY: Sudbury Valley Trustees (SVT) recently expanded its Grist Mill Pond Conservation Area thanks to land donations from two members of a neighboring family. The conservation area, which runs along Route 20 near the Marlborough-Sudbury line, is home to native plants such as winterberry and highbush blueberry with impressively large and statuesque oak trees.

The nonprofit land trust has been protecting this wetland habitat since 1975, when it purchased 18 acres of land around Grist Mill Pond. The conservation area expanded in June 2022 when a member of the Hutch family donated an adjacent 4.4-acre parcel that further buffers the habitat. The area expanded again on February 24, when another member of the Hutch family donated an additional 2.7 acres for permanent protection.

“We were delighted to accept these two donations from the Hutch family,” said Laura Mattei, Director of Stewardship. “It’s important to add to and create buffers around wetlands so our native wildlife can thrive. Every time we increase the size of a conservation area, we provide additional protections for wildlife.”

Domestic Violence Roundtable’s White Ribbon Group to Host “Watching Dad: What We Learn from Our Fathers about Being Parents and Partners”

SUDBURY: The White Ribbon Group of the Sudbury-Wayland-Lincoln Domestic Violence Roundtable and REACH Beyond Domestic Violence present “Watching Dad: What We Learn from Our Fathers about being Parents and Partners” on March 20 at 7pm. David Adams, co-founder and co-director of abuser education program Emerge, will be the featured speaker. The event will be held in the Community Meeting Room at the Goodnow Library, 21 Concord Road.

“Watching Dad” is inspired by the White Ribbon Campaign, which is the world's largest movement of men and boys working to end violence against women and girls, and promote gender equity, healthy relationships and a new vision of masculinity. The in-person event follows the local White Ribbon Group’s virtual events in March 2021 and March 2022.
Registration for “Watching Dad” is encouraged at https://tinyurl.com/yc4refu6. While the event is free of charge, donations are always appreciated to help support the cost of this work. To donate, visit www.domesticviolenceroundtable.org/don-form. For more information, email whiteribbon.dvrt@gmail.com.

Free Live Animal Show: Snakes of New England and the World

WESTBOROUGH: On March 11, bring the family and join the Westborough Community Land Trust for the always-popular spring free live animal show! Two one-hour shows will take place, starting at 9am and 11am. Meet some fascinating harmless reptiles you may find while out walking in Westborough, as well as some impressive specimens from around the world. Learn to identify, respect, and protect these fragile creatures. You will be allowed to touch the animals—this show is always a big hit with the young and the curious of all ages! Presented by Rick Roth of the Cape Ann Vernal Pond Team.

Plan to arrive early as seating is limited. This event will take place at the Knights of Columbus Hall, 17 Willow Street; parking lot in rear. There is no parking along Willow Street. Overflow parking is in Arturo’s parking lot, 54 East Main Street. (Walk behind the Arturo’s building to cross directly into the rear of the KofC parking lot.) No reservation required. Free; donations to WCLT gratefully accepted at the door. This program is supported in part by a grant from the Westborough Cultural Council, a local agency which is supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency. Also supported in part by the Westborough Newcomers Club.

Assabet Valley Mastersingers present “Coronation Celebration”

NORTHBOROUGH: Assabet Valley Mastersingers will present “Coronation Celebration” on March 26 at 3:30pm in the auditorium of Algonquin Regional High School, 79 Bartlett Street. Dr. Robert P. Eaton, Artistic Director and Founder will conduct the orchestra, soloists soprano Erin Smith, mezzo soprano Catherine Hedberg, tenor Charley Blandy, baritone John Salvi ,and the choral ensemble.

Herbert Howell’s “Behold, O God, Our Defender” was composed for Queen Elizabeth’s 1953 coronation and performed at her jubilee and her funeral. Handel’s “Coronation Anthems” were commissioned for the coronation of George ll of Great Britain in 1752 and “Zadok the Priest” has been performed at numerous coronations since. Mozart’s popular “Coronation Mass” was first performed in 1792 at the coronation of Francis Il, the last king of the Holy Roman Empire.

Tickets may be purchased from www.AVMsingers.org or at the venue the afternoon of the concert. The price is $25; $20 for seniors and students. Proof of vaccination is not required and wearing of masks is strongly encouraged but not required. There will be a reserved mask only section for those who prefer that environment. For further information, reference www.AVMsingers.org.

Northborough Art Guild Presents Bob Collins

NORTHBOROUGH: The Northborough Art Guild's February 28 program will present Bob Collins, a well-known artist and teacher. Bob will paint an acrylic portrait using a professional model while discussing anatomy, structure and planes of the face, set up and lighting. This program will be at the Northborough Historical Society, 52 Main Street at 7:30pm with parking behind the building on School Street. This program is free and open to the public.

The Sudbury Savoyards to perform Gilbert & Sullivan’s “The Grand Duke”

SUDBURY: The Sudbury Savoyards’ 2023 production is the rarely-performed last operetta of Gilbert & Sullivan, The Grand Duke. Performances will be at the Lincoln-Sudbury Regional High School, 390 Lincoln Road at 8pm on February 24, 25 & March 3, and at 2pm on February 26 and March 4. Tickets are $25 for adults; $22 for seniors/students; $12 for children under 12. Groups rates are also available for groups of 10 and over. For more information and to order tickets, visit www.sudburysavoyards.org and click on “BUY TICKETS”. Tickets are also available at the door as available. The theater is handicapped-accessible. Masks will be required.

The Grand Duke tells the tale of a theatrical troupe of actors that conspire to take over the Grand Duchy of Pfennig-Halbpfennig, but are discovered by the Grand Duke’s detective. To save the company, a statutory duel is suggested between the troupe’s manager and his leading comedian. Drawing playing cards instead of weapons, whomever draws the lower card is deemed the loser and will confess to the plot. Things go awry when the Grand Duke hears of the conspiracy and impulsively takes part in a second statutory duel. Acquired identities, mistaken engagements, and made-up Greek words abound in this pinnacle of operetta. You won’t want to miss this rare and rollicking piece of theatre!

Find Out about Affordable, Reliable, Clean 21st Century Nuclear Energy

The climate crisis is no longer hypothetical. It has arrived. The fastest way to de-carbonize the planet and reduce use of fossil fuels is to incorporate more nuclear energy into the regional power grid. Energy educators are offering free public talks to groups of all kinds – schools, libraries, religious communities, as well as civic, service and environmental organizations in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, southern New Hampshire and Maine and northeastern Connecticut.

Learn about modern safety procedures, the science and enormous power of uranium and thorium as a 21st century solution to meet the escalating world demand for electricity. Examine the fears underlying discussions of nuclear operations, waste and safety. Find out how modern nuclear reactors feed regional power grids with clean energy 24/7, and how other countries are developing this dense low-carbon energy source. Explore Eco-Nuclear Solutions, a non-partisan, volunteer, grassroots group of scientists, educators and environmentalists at www.eco-nuclearsolutions.org. To reserve a date to explore the potential of nuclear power, contact econuclearsolutions@gmail.com.

The one-hour presentation is an introduction to nuclear energy and how it benefits the planet and the world’s people. Access to reliable affordable electricity is a gateway out of poverty, which typically leads to lower birth rates. Nuclear power is experiencing a renaissance as one of the most reliable, affordable and zero-carbon sources of electricity that requires minimal land. It is the only electricity generating technology that sequesters and/or safely disposes of all byproducts which, along with its demonstrated reliability, makes it a rockstar to provide energy, the lifeblood of the world. The Seabrook, NH and Millstone, CT, nuclear plants provide 20% of electricity to the New England grid. Scientists and activists will share data, stories, slides and videos about the world’s drive for reliable, affordable and clean energy.

The team includes: David Butz, a self-educated living encyclopedia of nuclear energy, past, present and future; Carolyn McCreary, Ph.D, who served two terms on the Ayer Select Board and led the town to become a Green Community; Dale Levandier, Ph.D., a chemist with knowledge of nuclear physics; and other scientists and environmental activists.

Assabet Valley Chambersingers present Turn the World Around

SOUTHBOROUGH: Assabet Valley Chambersingers present "Turn the World Around," a choral concert of short works and solos including madrigals, folk songs from many cultures, Vocal Jazz, and contemporary settings of great texts. The concert will be held on March 12 at Harris Auditorium, Fay School at 3:30pm. There will be songs of love and laughter, intended to delight, encourage, and bring us all together.

The program will focus on the theme song “Turn the World Around” which was made popular by Belafonte and the Muppets. The song tells us to understand our relationship with the earth, with each other, and with ourselves. “Breaths,” written in the African American folk tradition and made popular by the group Sweet Honey in the Rocks, also tells us to be aware of the world around us. Other songs will include cultural folk songs, musical settings of great poetry, and lighthearted songs intended to entertain.

The Assabet Valley Chambersingers is an 18 voice ensemble from the Assabet Valley Mastersingers. Organized in 1983 by Artistic Director Robert Eaton as a civic outreach program in the greater Worcester and MetroWest area, the Chambersingers provide entertainment for a variety of audiences. They have performed at venues such as the Arts in Common Westborough, Tower Hill Botanic Gardens, Northborough and Marlborough Libraries, and First Night Worcester, as well as assisted living facilities throughout the area.

All tickets are Pay-What-You-Wish at the door. For more information, visit
avmsingers.org/chambersingers. Proof of vaccination is not required and wearing of masks is fully supported but not required. There will be a reserved mask only section for those who prefer that environment.

Baroque Diva: A Tribute to Faustina Bordoni

WAYLAND/BOSTON: On March 11th and 12th, Musicians of the Old Post Road returns for the second half of its 34th season with more live performances for both in-person and online audiences. In Baroque Diva: A Tribute to Faustina Bordoni, the ensemble will be bringing the musical presence of Baroque superstar Faustina Bordoni to life in two concerts on March 11 in Wayland and online, and March 12 in Boston. For more information, visit oldpostroad.org, email musicians@oldpostroad.org, or call (781) 466-6694.

One of history’s first divas, Faustina performed throughout Europe for over 30 years, from her native Italy to the musically vibrant Dresden court to cosmopolitan London. Despite her incredible life and career, Faustina is not widely known today outside of niche musical circles. In their ongoing quest to shed light on overlooked musicians and works, Musicians of the Old Post Road presents a program featuring several arias and a cantata that were inspired by her immense talent, written specifically with her skill in mind, as well as instrumental selections by composers who played important roles in her musical career.

Grammy-nominated Teresa Wakim will be featured as the guest vocalist, performing outstanding and virtuosic arias by Pietro Torri ("Senti ti voglio ancor trafiggere quel cor") and Jan Dismas Zelenka ("La sua disperazione"). The program will also include two arias by Handel written for Faustina from his opera Admeto ("Luce Cara" and "Io son qual Fenice"). A tribute to Faustina would not be complete without a work by her husband, the outstanding composer Johann Adolph Hasse, so the ensemble will be performing what will likely be a regional modern-day premiere of his cantata “Pallido il volto.” Instrumental selections include the Flute Concerto in A Minor by Francesco Gasparini (which the ensemble originally revived in 2011), overtures by Handel and Hasse, and a trio sonata by Nicolo Porpora, who penned many arias with Faustina as his muse.

Instrumentalists for this concert include Suzanne Stumpf, traverso, Sarah Darling and Jesse Irons, violins, Marcia Cassidy, viola, Daniel Ryan, cello, and Sylvia Berry, harpsichord, all of whom will perform on period instruments.

Sat., March 11, 2023, 4pm
First Parish, Wayland, MA &
live-streamed at oldpostroad.org
Sun., March 12, 2023, 4pm EST
Old South Church, Boston, MA

In-person Audience Tickets $10-$50, kids come free with an adult
Online Audience Tickets: $35 individual, $70 family, $10 students
Day-Of-Concert Rush Tickets (students and EBT Card holders only) are $10, availability permitting. Online single tickets and online subscriptions are also available.

Jazz Quartet to Perform at St. Stephen

MARLBOROUGH: For an afternoon of light jazz, there is no need to “Take the A Train.” Just show up at Saint Stephen Lutheran Church, 537 Bolton Street on February 12 at 3pm. The Rebecca Pagano quartet, a group of well-known area musicians, will entertain with jazz standards.

The quartet will include Pagano, tenor sax/ flute; Alexei Tsiganov, piano, John Hotchkiss, bass, and Charles Weller, drums. Although the final play list is not set, Rebecca indicated a working list includes Cheesecake, Ceora, There Will Never Be Another You, Alice in Wonderland, I Could Write a Book, Voce’ e Eu, Sunday Kind of Love, and I Let a Song Go Out of My Heart.

“I'm very grateful for this opportunity to bring my music to St. Stephen Lutheran Church and the greater Marlborough community,” Pagano said. “This band is cooking! We can't wait to bring some joy into everyone's day, and leave everyone with hearts and minds full of songs.”

Music lovers are asked to bring a donation to the Fresh Start Furniture Bank as their
admission fee. NEW kitchen gadgets, such as Pyrex baking dishes, cookie sheets, mixing bowls and cutting boards would be especially welcome along with “gently used” small appliances such as hand mixers and toasters. Cash donations will also be accepted. With a Valentine’s Day theme, refreshments will be available from 2:45-3pm, during intermission, and
after the concert.

The program is the second in a series of Performances at St. Stephen, with one concert offered each season. In the fall, a folk duo performed, and the spring program, still tentative, may feature piano, organ, and handbells.

FPS Hosts Multigenerational Talent Show

SUDBURY: Join First Parish of Sudbury (FPS) for a delightful afternoon at our First Parish of Sudbury Multigenerational Talent Show February 11 at 4:30pm. Featuring Rev. Kathleen Hepler as emcee, singing, music, yoyo tricks, a dramatic recitation, a sea shanty, and much more! There is no fee to attend and pizza will be available for donation. FPS is located at the center of historic Sudbury, 327 Concord Road. Please see fpsudbury.org or contact (978) 443-2043 or office@fpsudbury.org for further information.

Learn & Play Competitve Badminton

SUDBURY: Badminton demands constant actions: running, jumping, twisting, stretching, running backwards and striking. Players have been known to cover more than 3 miles in a single match! You will find that badminton is a fast, fun and social game that can be played and enjoyed by people of all ages. If you have never played badminton before, you will quickly learn the basics and join others in exciting games. Participants will learn the basic skills of badminton. Experienced players as well as beginners will be taught. If you are looking for a great way to have fun while getting in shape, this is the place to be. Bring your racket and we will provide the birdies. Sudbury Lincoln High School Adult Education is hosting a Badminton program that will run Wednesdays from 7-9pm starting March 8. For more information, contact adult.ed@lsrhs.net, (978) 443-9961 x3326.

SVT Receives $10,000 Grant for Elevated Boardwalk

SUDBURY: Sudbury Valley Trustees (SVT) has received a $10,000 grant from The Public Lands Fund to build a pair of wetlands crossings including an elevated boardwalk at SVT’s Lyons-Cutler property located near the Framingham-Sudbury line. This 95-acre natural area features trails that encircle a small forest and run alongside two brooks that frequently offer views of a heron rookery in late May. The new boardwalk will enable visitors to cross the wetlands and link to trails on the Town of Sudbury’s adjacent Landham Brook Marsh property. SVT will start work on the project later this spring. (The Public Lands Fund is a program of Dick's Sporting Goods Foundation.)

Free Talk: Clicking with Nature

WESTBOROUGH: Focus on nature photography with the Westborough Community Land Trust! Learn tips, tricks, and go-to gear from Westborough resident and award-winning nature photographer Nancy Wright (pictured). You’ll hear the stories behind some of her favorite photos, including several that are part of her portfolio that won the National Wildlife 2021 Photo Contest. The free talk (no reservations required) will be held February 12, from 1:30-3pm in the Westborough Public Library meeting room, 55 West Main Street. Check for weather and Covid updates before heading out at https://westboroughlandtrust.org. Contact events@westboroughlandtrust.org with any questions.

Local Students Named to Dean's List at Fitchburg State

FITCHBURG: Fitchburg State University President Richard S. Lapidus has announced the students who qualified for inclusion on the Dean’s List for the Fall 2022 semester. A student is placed on the Dean’s List for the semester if an average grade of 3.20 or better is attained, and the student is attending the university full time. Congratulations to:

Acton / Boxborough / Maynard
Catherine Abrams
Yilver A. Aguilera
Zainabu A. Bosungmeh
Joseph D. Ditavi
Abderrahmane Garchali
Ryan B. Kidder
Carl W. Lindberg
Kyle J. Lindfors
Jonah T. Sallese
Zachary J. St John

Ayer / Shirley / Groton / Harvard / Devens
Chassity P. Boo
Kaitlyn M. Bremer
Jonathan W. Bremer
Hailey G. Burke
Savannah D. Caldbeck
Matthew J. Carey
Andrew T. Esielionis
Emily J. Hanson
Kayla A. Holland
Curtis J. Holmes
Kabriana T. Kien
Ryleigh A. Levensailor
Brady W. Madigan
Deven J. Muldoon
Eli Norton
Mishayla S. Silver
Megan R. Strout
Mark K. Terhune
Danielle M. Varner
Jing Wang
Stephen T. Wells

Chelmsford / North Chelmsford
David E. Kelley
McKenna G. Moore
Sara Najm
Karen A. O'Rourke
Seth E. Rigby

Concord / Carlisle / Bedford
David P. Eisenberg
Shujiao Liu

Hudson / Stow
Brian K. Boland
Emily Cristobal
Molly J. Flanagan
Isaiah French
Emily G. Hallsworth
Nicholas D. Solimine
Cameron J. Sousa
Dale A. Sousa
Courtney M. Walsh

Marlborough / Sudbury
Julia M. Barnes
Ava E. Hannon
Kaleigh A. Morales
Nickolai Voskanian

Westford / Littleton
Vincent A. Colavita
Erick K. Gakuo
Benjamin R. Golash
Kyanah Long
Nathan S. Martin
Edith Masembe
Adam E. Quinlan
Alyssa K. Ramirez
Asha L. Speller
Benjamin G. Stormwind
Meaghan J. Walsh

Additionally, Fitchburg State University President Richard S. Lapidus has announced the names of students included on the President’s List for the Fall 2022 semester. The President’s List honors students for consistently high academic achievement. A student is named to the list after achieving a 3.75 average in each of three successive semesters. Congratulations to:

Acton / Boxborough / Maynard
Owen C. Thayer

Chelmsford / North Chelmsford
Alyssa J. Fields
Emily F. Klein
Sophia A. Piper

Learn more at fitchburgstate.edu.

Symphonic Treasures: Symphony Pro Musica’s Upcoming Program

HUDSON/SOUTHBOROUGH: Symphony Pro Musica, conducted by Mark Churchill, presents its second performances of its celebratory 40th anniversary season on February 4 at 7:30pm at the Hudson High School, and on February 5 at 3:30pm at St. Mark’s School in Southborough. The program is titled “Symphonic Treasures” and features violinist Maria Ioudenitch, who will perform Ludwig van Beethoven’s Violin Concerto.

“Maria Ioudenitch (pictured) makes her SPM debut. She is an extraordinary young Russian-American musician and one of the greatest rising violin stars performing today.” says Churchill. Joseph Joachim, the famous German violinist and close friend and collaborator of Brahms declared ‘The Germans have four violin concertos. The greatest, most uncompromising is Beethoven’s.” In fact, Joachim’s playing and devotion to the work set the musical world on fire and it has graced every great violinist’s repertoire since.

Opening the program is French Impressionist composer Claude Debussy’s Prelude to the Afternoon of a Faun, which begins with a captivating flute solo by our outstanding principal flutist Ethan Lin. Closing the program is Alexander Borodin’s magnificent Symphony No.2. Churchill comments “This piece used to be a staple of symphony concerts around the world. We think it still should be! It’s exciting, tuneful, challenging but satisfying to play, and it’s a joy to listen to. It brings out the best qualities and spirit of the romantic symphony orchestra.”

SPM continues its long tradition of performing at Hudson High School, which began with the orchestra’s founding 40 years ago. On Sunday, SPM will play at the Putnam Family Arts Center at St. Mark’s School. There will be a pre-concert talk 45 minutes prior to the start of each performance. Students are always able to attend SPM concerts at no charge. Adult tickets are $25, senior tickets are
$20, and group rates are available. Tickets to the performances may be found on Eventbrite - www.symphonypromusica.eventbrite.com., For more information, visit www.symphonypromusica.org, call (978) 562-0939, or email spmoffice@symphonypromusica.org.

ParentChild+ Program now Available Locally

ACTON: ParentChild+ is a FREE home visiting program for families with young children to help parents prepare their child for preschool or kindergarten. First Connections recently received a grant to provide this program to families living in Acton, Bedford, Boxboro, Carlisle, Concord, Harvard, Lincoln, Littleton, Maynard, Sudbury and Westford. An Early Learning Specialist will visit your home twice per week with fun and engaging early learning experiences, including a high-quality book or toy that you can keep. Specialists model reading, conversations and play activities designed to promote language development, pre-literacy skills, and school readiness. Children can enter the program when they are 18-36 months old and participate for 46 weeks, excluding summer and holiday breaks. Families who lack transportation or the financial ability to attend playgroups or preschool will be prioritized to receive this service. Families whose children are watched by family members while they work are eligible, but children enrolled in preschool or child care outside of the home would not be eligible. This program has a 40-year track record of supporting early childhood success. Anyone interested in participating in this program can contact First Connections by emailing firstconnections@jri.org or calling/texting Debbie at (978) 505-4429.

Boys & Girls Clubs of MetroWest Seeks Nominees for Hall of Fame

HUDSON/MARLBOROUGH: Since its inception 79 years ago, Boys and Girls Clubs of MetroWest (BGCMW) has provided children of all backgrounds with the opportunity to grow and realize their dreams. Their experiences in the Boys & Girls Club helped shape them and open doors to a bright future. BGCMW needs the public’s help in identifying community members who deserve to be recognized for their hard work and devotion to the organization.

The Hall of Fame event is a breakfast celebrating those individuals that do so much for the organization. The event includes an induction ceremony into the Hall of Fame, as well as recognition of Youth of the Year winner. These individuals will be honored at the breakfast on May 18, 2023 at the Courtyard by Marriott in Marlborough. Nominations open online and are available until February 28th.

The Hall of Fame is an opportunity to recognize community members long-term BGCMW dedication, positive youth influence, those who have gone on to make major contributions in their fields, many of whom are alumni or have been associated with the Club for many years, for their dedication to BGCMW mission and continued support of the organization. The Youth of the Year is the highest award available for current members in our membership and recognizes one member's dedication, leadership and academic achievement. Their stories are very different, but all begin the same way: with the life-changing programs, caring and attentive staff, and fun and safety of the Clubs. The Hall of Fame will acknowledge individuals, whether alumni or club supporters, for their unwavering commitment to BGCMW and the young people of MetroWest. If you wish to nominate someone, visit www.bgcmetrowest.org/hall-of-fame.

The Boys & Girls Clubs of MetroWest has enabled community youth most in need to achieve great futures as productive, caring, responsible citizens. The Clubs serve more than 6,200 youth each year across its’ three Clubhouses in Hudson, Marlborough and Framingham. The Club
maintains a low membership fee of $25 per year, per child because of the generous support provided by local companies, foundations, and individuals. To learn more about, or donate to, the Boys & Girls Clubs of MetroWest visit www.bgcmetrowest.org.

Algonquin Regional to Receive National Recognition from Special Olympics for Achievements with Inclusion

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NORTHBOROUGH: On January 17 at 7pm, the Algonquin boys varsity basketball team will take on Shrewsbury, but in addition to the excitement that the game is sure to provide, something extraordinary will be happening at halftime. Algonquin Regional High School has been recognized as 1 of only 12 schools in the state and 164 in the country to receive the National Banner Award, an accolade given by Special Olympics for excellence correlating with the inclusive promotion of leadership and equity within the greater school community. Schools are required to meet a variety of standards in order to be crowned Unified Champion Schools, and ARHS can now bear that honor proudly.

Algonquin provides extensive, fluid opportunities for neurodivergent and neurotypical students alike in partnership with Special Olympics and additional inclusion organizations, consisting of, though not limited to Unified Track, Basketball, Inclusive DECA, Singing Club, Colorguard, Unified Art Project, Best Buddies and a variety of additional school commitments which foster inclusivity corresponding with focuses in robotics, cheer, and theater.

Algonquin would like to welcome members of the community to “A Night to Include” on January 17 at 7pm, to cheer on our varsity team, enjoy some time with family and friends, and bear witness to something remarkable as we gather to support the inclusive spirit of the community and cheer on our Unified students as they receive this prestigious award.

PHOTO: Post-graduate Megan Chute shoots the ball during the Unified Baskeball game against Marlboro on Oct. 27, 2022. Her teammate, sophomore Liam Fitzgerald, points to the hoop.

Domestic Violence Roundtable Collects Valentine Donations for Families in Shelter

SUDBURY: Each February, the Sudbury-Wayland-Lincoln Domestic Violence Roundtable collects items for Valentine’s Day and fills gift bags for adults and children temporarily living in local domestic violence shelters and transitional housing programs: REACH Beyond Domestic Violence, The Second Step, and Voices Against Violence. The Valentine Bags are decorated by the children from Sudbury Extended Day.

Members of local communities are cordially invited to participate in this collection again this year. This is a great opportunity for civic organizations, workplaces, families, friends, and neighbors to contribute to the Roundtable collection and to help us make lives brighter for families affected by domestic violence. Small acts of kindness like the gift bags let families know they are supported in their decision to leave an abusive situation and brighten their day. These gestures are especially appreciated during the pandemic.

Some examples of needed items are gift cards for CVS, Target, Market Basket, Gas etc. For adults, teens and tweens some items could include full size bath products, socks, cosmetics, nail polish, hair products, journals, gloves/mittens, boxed candy, wash cloths, underwear and scarves. Items for children could include playing cards, educational materials, small toys, small stuffed animals, matchbox cars, underwear, socks and candy. No books, crayons, pencils or markers please.

In past years the Roundtable has provided as many as 80 bags for families in shelter and transitional housing. If you are interested in contributing to the Valentine’s Day collection and have questions, please contact the Roundtable at info@dvrt.org . Donations may be left in the collection basket provided at Sudbury Wine and Spirits in the Rugged Bear Plaza Road, 410 Boston Post Road, Sudbury. The 2023 collection will start on January 20 and end on February 3.

ARC Comedy Night Benefit February 10th

HUDSON/MARLBOROUGH: The ARC is hosting the 12th Annual Comedy Night Benefit, featuring the area’s most popular and talented comedians on February 10, at the Hudson Portuguese Club, 13 Port Street in Hudson. The event, being held in support of the Addiction Referral Center (ARC) of Marlborough, will include lots of laughs, food, and raffle prizes. The ARC has been serving the local community for fifty years, since 1972, and relies on fundraising and donations to provide its services.

Entertainers at the Comedy Night Benefit include popular comedians Amy Tee, Ryan Shea, and Bill Douglas. Boston comedian Dave Rattigan returns as host. These days he co-hosts two podcasts, the crime ‘n grime-focused Crime Solvers Podcast and Real Stories by Real Cops. His CD has been played on SiriusXM Radio, and he performed three times on the syndicated Steve Katsos Show. He’s done commercials for Olympia Sports and iParty, and performed in Dublin and Kilkenny, Ireland and in Boston with Irish comedians Ardal O’Hanlon and Joe Rooney. He’s performed at the Hampton Beach Comedy Festival (NH), Boston Comedy Festival, Women in Comedy Festival, and Salem Comedy and Spirits Festival, and shared the stage with Bill Burr, Jeff Dunham, the Beach Boys, and more.

Amy Tee is one of the busiest comedians on the New England comedy circuit today. Whether performing in world famous comedy clubs, theaters, colleges, or at charity events, her edgy but subtle approach turns her personal tribulations into non-stop hilarity with mainstream and alternative audiences from Los Angeles to New York City alike. As an official presenter for the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), Amy Tee proudly uses her comedy act to serve as a mental wellness advocate. Mentioned in Curve magazine as one of the "funniest lesbians in America," and identified as a rising star by the Boston Globe, she is a regular performer at the Boston Comedy Festival and also featured on Sirius XM Satellite Radio & LOGO television network.

Ryan Shea is a Boston based comic that has been a regular in the Boston clubs for the past 11 years. He performs all over the east coast, and is a former comic in residence at the reputable Comedy Studio in Cambridge. In 2016 he was asked to perform for the troops and asked back in 2017. Shea is honest, outspoken, and introspective. He brings high energy and points of view for everyone to enjoy.

Bill Douglas is a middle school science teacher by day. At night he’s still a middle school science teacher, but also travels around New England performing comedy. In addition to New England, he’s performed at clubs in the Midwest and San Francisco. He has shared the stage with headliners such as Jimmy Dunn, Paul Nardizzi, Carolyn Plummer, and Paul D’Angelo.

Doors open for the event at 6:30pm and the show begins at 7:30pm. Food is available for purchase. Coffee and desserts are complimentary. For further information on sponsorships, program ads, tickets or table reservations, call the ARC Office at (508) 485-4357. Tables ($250) and individual tickets ($25) should be purchased in advance at the ARC. Chairing the event are Tracey Gustafson and Bob Landry.

The Addiction Referral Center (ARC) ranks as one of the most respected and active recovery service resources in Middlesex County. As a nonprofit organization, the ARC provides individualized referral services, Recovery Coach appointments and daily peer support meetings at no cost to those seeking recovery from substance use disorder. To donate to the ARC or sponsor the 12th Annual Comedy Night Benefit please call (508) 485-4357 or visit www.theaddictionreferralcenter.org/2023- comedy.

WANTED: Treble Voice Singers

NATICK: The A Capella Singers, based in Natick, sings both accompanied and a cappella music. They are currently welcoming prospective new members in all parts (Soprano I & II particularly, as well as Alto I & II) who have prior choral experience and/or can read music to join. They will be holding open rehearsals at Fisk Memorial United Methodist Church, 106 Walnut Street on January 16 and 23 at 7pm.

The A Cappella Singers was formed in 1963 as part of the Natick Newcomer’s Club and consists of members from many towns and many walks of life, all with a common love of vocal music. They are a dues-paying, non-profit organization. At this time, proof of vaccinations and masks are required to join. To find out the latest information, please visit www.facebook.com/acappellasingersnatick, email info@theacappellasingers.org, or call (774) 231-1963 or (781) 444-5963.

Special Ed Parent Group Fundraiser February 3

MARLBOROUGH: The Northborough Southborough Special Education Parent Advisory Council (NSPAC) is hosting a Mini Golf Fundraising Event on February 3, 4:30-6:30pm at Trombetta’s Farm, 655 Farm Road. Tee times begin at 4:30pm and continue every 15 minutes. Admission is $10/golfer, and families can purchase food, participate in a 50/50 raffle, and enjoy camaraderie with other families. Proceeds from this Fundraiser will go to NSPAC. NSPAC provides Northborough and Southborough district families with educational workshops, social activities, kid-centered activities, advocates on behalf of families with students on IEPs and 504s, delivers our district’s annual Go the Distance Awards ceremony and more. Please register online at www.signupgenius.com/go/30e0f4aabac23abf85-nspac1#. Families that cannot attend the Fundraiser but would still like to make a donation can do so at www.signupgenius.com/go/30e0f4aabac23abf85-nspac2#.

NSPAC is a volunteer-run, positive and solution oriented organization of parents of students ages 3-22 with special needs, medical challenges, and learning differences in the Northborough and Southborough School Districts. Meetings, speakers, and events of interest can be found on the website at www.nspac.org or follow NSPAC on Facebook.

Finding Your Mojo and Unleashing Your Soul: Developing Drive, Motivation and Joie de vivre with Rabbi Dr Wolf

SUDBURY: All are invited to join Chabad of Sudbury for a lecture with Rabbi Dr Wolf, unusual exponent of ancient wisdoms and cutting-edge psychology. A lawyer and psychologist as well as an ordained Hasidic Rabbi, Dr Wolf is an internationally renowned speaker, and the celebrated author of the best-selling ‘Practical Kabbala’ (published by Random House). His works have been highly acclaimed by diverse world leaders such as Rabbi Lord Sir Jonathan Sacks obm, and the Dalai Lama.

Dr Wolf will be visiting Sudbury and lecturing on the theme of "Finding your Mojo & Unleashing your Soul" and sharing tools from Meditation and Kabbala on "Developing Drive, Motivation and Joie De Vivre". A great turnout is expected to hear this unusual speaker who sports an Australian accent while explaining the profound secrets of Kabbala while elucidating the latest psychological data on personality development. His lecture is being hosted January 25 at 7pm at the Chabad Center of Sudbury, 100 Horse Pond Road. Light refreshments will be served. The fee is $15 before January 24; $20 at the door or on January 25. RSVP online at www.chabadsudbury.com/wolf or by calling (978) 443-0110.

Evening Sponsorships are available.
Sponsors are invited to join a Cocktail Hour from 6pm and on with the Guest Speaker.

Wildlife Tracks and Signs

WESTBOROUGH: Have you ever come across tracks in the snow or mud, and wondered what animal made them? Or thought about what other signs animals might leave of their presence? On January 22 from 1-3pm, bring the family and join the Westborough Community Land Trust on this walk, to learn how to tell what our local animals are doing in the wild when we’re not around! Led by certified wildlife tracker Debbie Gallagher, assisted by Janet Anderson. Free; no reservation required. Easy walk on woodland terrain, one small hill.Meet at the Mass Wildlife Field Headquarters, 1 Rabbit Hill Road (off North Drive). Take Milk Street to North Drive. and follow signs to the Mass Wildlife Headquarters.

Before heading out, check for cancellation at https://westboroughlandtrust.org/

For questions contact: events@westboroughlandtrust.org

Trail Map: https://westboroughcharm.org/guide/maps/map_FishWildlife.pdf

LSCO Begins 50th season with Masters of the Classics Concert

LINCOLN/SUDBURY: The Lincoln-Sudbury Civic Orchestra opens its 50th season on January 8, under the leadership of its gifted new conductor Alfonso Piacentini in a program of the classical masters Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Ludwig von Beethoven and Felix Mendelssohn. The concert begins at 3pm.

Maestro Piacentini (pictured) joins the orchestra for its first concert under his baton. Piacentini was appointed conductor following the departure of another emerging conducting star Luca Antonucci who directed the orchestra for three years. Antonucci left to pursue Doctor of Musical Arts in conducting at the University of Michigan.

Maynard resident and Lexington music educator Chris Brainard is the newly appointed concertmaster in her first appearance in this role.

Pianist Marvin Wolfthal joins the orchestra as soloist for the last piano concerto penned by Mozart, his 27th concerto. This is Mr. Wolfthal’s second appearance with LSCO. Wolfthal was born in Bridgeport, Connecticut, where he studied piano with Murray and Loretta Dranoff. He studied composition at Columbia University with Charles Wuorinen and Harvey Sollberger and piano with Claudio Arrau and Rafael de Silva. He was a founder of the Columbia Chamber Players, which performed classics of early Twentieth Century music and gave several first New York performances of works by major composers, including Pierre Boulez.

The program opens with the overture Fingals Cave, originally published as The Hebrides by Mendelssohn. His inspiration came during a visit to the Scottish island of Staffa, where he saw the Fingal’s sea cave. The last concerto for piano and orchestra, #27 in B flat major was composed in the last months of Mozart’s short and tragic life. Soloist Marvin Wolfthal will introduce the work with comments from the stage about its context in Mozart’s waning months. A short intermission will be taken. The second half of the program is Beethoven’s Symphony #1 in C major, a landmark symphony in the development of the classical symphony form.

Lincoln-Sudbury Civic Orchestra, The community orchestra of Lincoln Sudbury Regional High School, will perform January 8 at 3:30pm at 390 Lincoln Road in Sudbury. For more information, visit www.lscivicorchestra.org or email lscivicorchestra@gmail.com.

Action Holiday BINGO! Wrapping Up Soon

Have you been playing The Action's Winter BINGO! this season? The game will be wrapping up soon, so be sure to dab your numbers, cross your fingers, and when you find yourself with a row completed horizontally, vertically or diagonally, copy or scan your cards and send them to "contest@actionunlimited.com" or 100-1 Domino Drive, Concord, MA 01742. One winner will be drawn from all verified submissions.

Assabet Valley Camera Club: A Certain Slant of Light

HUDSON: On January 4, the Assabet Valley Camera Club (AVCC) is pleased to
host Suzanne Révy, photographer, writer and educator who earned a BFA from the Pratt Institute and an MFA from the New Hampshire Institute of Art, and previously worked as photography editor at U.S. News & World Report and Yankee Magazine. She has exhibited her work at museums and galleries throughout New England and in New York. Révy is an adjunct professor of photography at Clark University in Worcester.

A Certain Slant of Light began as a daily photographic ritual where Suzanne employed a mobile phone to keep her eyes open for light as it moved and changed throughout the day. As a photographer who primarily uses film in a methodical manner, the immediacy, speed and ease of phone photography offered a different avenue for practice and honing her vision on a daily basis. Capturing images at sunrise on a small pond allows Révy to witness seasonal changes in shifting light and weather. In her presentation, she will discuss how using the phone has enhanced her practice in film photography and will describe how her phone pictures have evolved over time.

Currently AVCC meetings are being held online. If you are interested in attending this program, contact AVCC at info@assabetvalleycc.com a few days prior to the meeting to request a link to the event. The club’s Zoom room opens at 7pm with a brief business meeting at 7:15pm. Suzanne’s presentation will begin at 7:30pm.

Normally, AVCC meetings are held at the Hudson Senior Center, 29 Church Street. 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 are 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 interclub 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, visit www.assabetvalleycc.com.

St. Stephen Church Delivers 31 Christmas Satchels to Seafarers

MARLBOROUGH: Waiting until Christmas to open presents delivered weeks in advance can be a challenge, but a group of seafarers vowed to do just that when 31 packages of warm winter clothing and other gifts donated by St. Stephen Lutheran Church arrived in New Haven, CT where merchant marines were in port for a day.

Most people may not think about the shipment of such things as rebar and scrap metal, or even how home heating oil and imported wood get to their final destination, or the sailors whose efforts are a vital part of the process. Seafarers from all over the world are an integral part of bringing these, and other products for New Englanders into New Haven, CT. Seafarers are often isolated and lonely, sometimes without the means to contact family frequently, or purchase needed items while in port. Typical contracts put most at sea for 10 months a year, and they remain a largely forgotten population at the holidays.

Seafarers International House serves this population, and the people of St. Stephen Lutheran Church, Marlborough, have responded for the past seven years by providing Christmas gifts of satchels filled with hand-knit hats and scarves, hooded sweatshirts, shirts, socks, cans of nuts and Christmas cards. This year, church members Melanie Whapham and Judy Kellogg of Marlborough traveled to New Haven to meet with Port Chaplain Ruth Setaro and deliver 31 satchels.

The visitors had the opportunity to meet some of the seafarers. “A crew from the COSMOS was in port for the day, leaving for India,” Melanie said. “These merchant marines will be the best color coordinated sailors on the seas.” The hand knit items matched wonderfully with the purchased sweatshirts and shirts, she noted. Chaplain Setaro said the sailors were very grateful for the packages. “They were so excited to get these gifts and promised they would wait until Christmas to open them.”

The need for additional warm, hand knit hats continues, and less than 2 weeks after an announcement in church, 30 more hand-knit hats had been donated.
Seafarers International House is an ecumenical mission of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America to seafarers and sojourners, as well as people who are distressed, disadvantaged, and displaced. For more information, check out https:/www.sihnyc.org.

Seven Lutheran chaplains support the Seafarers Port Mission. When requested, they will board merchant marine ships to provide pastoral care and counseling. During the holidays, chaplains distribute the packages to ships that port in New York, New Jersey, Baltimore, Philadelphia and southern New England that will be out at sea for Christmas.

For more information about the church, visit www.saintstephenlutheran.com or the church’s Facebook page. Saint Stephen is a member of the New England Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (www.elca.org). The church is a Reconciling in Christ congregation, inviting people of every gender, sexuality, race, ethnicity, ability, marital status, or class. Parishioners come from Marlborough, Hudson, Berlin, Northborough, Southborough, Westborough, Shrewsbury, Sudbury, Stow, and Bolton.

First Parish of Sudbury Invites the Community to Celebrate the Season

SUDBURY: First Parish of Sudbury invites the community to celebrate the season with them...

Winter Holiday Multigenerational Service  - December 18, 10am 

In-person or online , join Rev. Kathleen Hepler for a Winter Holiday Multigenerational Service. Sing holiday songs…hear some stories….listen to a choir of many ages. Be together for a time of celebration.

Christmas Eve Candle Lighting Service  

December 24,  7pm

 In-person or online, join welcoming Christmas Eve with a community candle lighting in the silent night. Featuring traditional carols. The dark nurtures the seed of our need for more love in the world. The light is the birth of love in our own hearts.  All ages are welcome!

Sharing Holiday Stories and Cocoa

 Sunday, December 25, 10am 

Gather in person in the First Parish Brackett Room for hot cocoa and holiday treats. Bring a holiday story to share if you would like. Rev. Kathleen Hepler and others will lead our sharing. Relax in front of the fire together!

First Parish of Sudbury, located at 327 Concord Road is a diverse and welcoming community of spiritual seekers who strive to learn together and support one another as they celebrate life’s important moments and serve the larger community. The First Parish was founded in 1640, and the congregation worships in the historic meetinghouse that was built in 1685.

Winter holiday multigenerational 12.18.22

Parker School Opens 2023-24 Enrollment Season

DEVENS: Francis W. Parker Charter Essential School announced the enrollment season for the 2023-2024 academic year is now open. Parker is a free public charter school open by lottery to students entering grades 7, 8 and 9. Applications can be submitted online at www.parker.school/apply until February 1, 2023. The lottery will be held on February 7, 2023 at 4pm. All application, lottery, and enrollment regulations, as outlined in the enrollment policy will be followed.

In addition, Parker has limited openings in grades 7 and 9 for mid-year entry during the current (2022-23) school year. There are no openings in grade 8 for the 2022-23 school year at this time. Applications for the current school year can be submitted online and will be accepted until January 4, 2023. If more applications are received than there are available spaces, a lottery will be drawn on January 12, 2023 at 4pm. Enrollment offers will be made with an intended start date of the first day of second semester (January 24, 2023).

Parker Charter School educates 400 students in grades 7-12 from more than 40 towns in Massachusetts. Founded in 1995, Parker is committed to the principles of progressive education—inclusive community, low student-teacher ratio, project-based learning, and promotion based on mastery of core intellectual skills. Learn more at www.theparkerschool.org. Sign up for an information session at www.parker.school/infosession.

Foundation for MetroWest Welcome’s High School Students to Apply for Spring Youth in Philanthropy Program

NATICK: The Foundation for MetroWest invites high school students living or learning in the region to apply to their Youth in Philanthropy (YIP) program’s spring session. YIP students will meet in-person one evening a week, January through May 2023, to learn about the needs of the MetroWest community, how the local nonprofit ecosystem addresses those needs, and how they can make a difference.

YIP students connect with nonprofit professionals, evaluate grant applications from organizations supporting MetroWest youth, and award two $5,000 grants. The Foundation will run two programs in spring 2023. YIP Wellesley, supported by the Community Fund for Wellesley, serves students who live or learn in Wellesley and will meet at the Foundation’s office in Natick, just over the Wellesley town line. YIP Sudbury, supported and hosted by the Sudbury Foundation, serves students who live or learn in any of the towns and cities served by the Foundation. Interested students can learn more or apply at www.yipmetrowest.org. Participation in this experiential leadership development program is free of charge. The Foundation welcomes questions at yip@foundationformetrowest.org or (508) 647-2260. The priority deadline for application is December 19. Following the priority deadline, admission is rolling based on capacity.

The Foundation for MetroWest improves the quality of life in 30+ MetroWest communities by providing financial and educational resources to local nonprofit organizations, sharing essential data about our region to inform decision making, and partnering with donors to help guide and align their giving with the areas of greatest need in the community. foundationmw.org

About Action Unlimited

A weekly advertising publication with seven (7) different editions to choose from - Acton (Acton, Maynard), Boxboro, Chelmsford, Concord (Concord, Carlisle, Bedford), Hudson (Hudson, Stow), Marlborough (Marlborough, Sudbury) and Westford (Westford, Littleton), Each edition is filled with news, events, puzzles, local advertisers, classifieds and more!

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