Wanted: New Members for Hundredth Town Chorus

WESTBOROUGH: Hundredth Town Chorus, an all-volunteer treble chorus, is seeking new members, especially First Sopranos, although all parts are welcome. Opening Day is September 14 at 9:30am. Rehearsals run from 9:30-11am on Wednesdays at Congregation B'nai Shalom, 117 E. Main Street. The chorus is not affiliated with the synagogue, but is most grateful for their donation of rehearsal space. There are no night or weekend rehearsals or obligations and no fundraising or ticket selling. All performances are free and held on Wednesday mornings.

Interested singers are invited to come on opening day, as well as the two open rehearsals on September 21 and September 28. On Opening Day, interested people can meet with Board members and Committee Chairs, get to know current group members, try out a new song or two with the chorus under the direction of the Assistant Conductor, and receive chorus information and registration materials. Those who wish to register will receive a music packet to take home. The following two Open Rehearsals led by Mary Havlicek Cornacchia will be an opportunity to meet with singers for conversation and section placement.

HTC is an organization of women who enjoy singing four-part harmony in a relaxing and fun environment. The chorus was founded in 1949 by the Westborough Women's Club, with a mission to share the joy of music by singing and entertaining at area nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and senior centers. Today's chorus is made up of members from all over Worcester County, including Westborough, Northborough, Shrewsbury, Marlborough, Grafton, Hopkinton, Southborough, Millbury, and Uxbridge. The chorus also occasionally performs at local public events such as Westborough's Arts in Common and the Westborough 300th Anniversary Celebration. Music includes holiday classics, Broadway favorites, popular music, and folk songs, as well as an occasional classical number.

For more information, visit the website hundredthtownchorus.com or facebook page, email htc.chorus@gmail.com, leave a message for the president Betsy at (508) 393-8133, or just show up at any September rehearsal.

Berlin Girl Scout Completes Gold Award Project

BERLIN/WEST BOYLSTON: Local Berlin Girl Scout Gabby Bourassa, from Troop 75302 has just finished her Gold Award Project titled Camp Woodhaven Woodlands. The Gold Award is the highest award that a Girl Scout can earn and it requires over 80 hours. Gabby, spent over 100 hours on this project building bridges and painting educational signs for Camp Woodhaven in West Boylston.

The trail that Gabby wanted to fix up was very muddy and lacked engagement for campers while they were walking the trail. To fix this issue, Gabby built two 10-foot bridges that covered the muddy area and the stream that ran across the path. Gabby also hand-painted seven local plants and five animals on wooden signs. The animal signs had statistics on the animal and interesting facts.

Gabby completed her project by putting a plaque on each of her bridges that reads: Frog Bog Bridge - GSA Gold Award Project by - Gabrielle Bourassa - June 2022. She looks forward to campers being able to enjoy the trail for many more summers to come and is very proud of all the work she did.

Gabby would like to thank all of her friends and family who have supported her through this amazing journey as well as the following people: her troop leader Julie-Anne, the camp director Paula, her mentor Pam, Mr. Senie for allowing her to hold a fundraiser at Village Cafe and Pizza, and Koopman Lumber for their donations. Without help from all of these people and organizations, this project would not have been possible.

River Clean-up Volunteers Needed!

ACTON: OARS needs volunteers to help spread out across the Sudbury, Assabet and Concord river watershed to clean up rivers, streams, ponds and trails! This year marks the 36th Annual River Clean-up which will be hybrid and take place September 16 thru 18. Every year OARS relies on the support of volunteers and local businesses to keep our rivers clean. Local business owners are also encouraged to reach out and find out how company teams can get involved in this year’s clean-up. Visit www.oars3rivers.org to find out how to join in!

OARS is a nonprofit, science-based organization whose mission is to protect, improve and preserve the Assabet, Sudbury and Concord River watersheds for all people and wildlife. The watershed includes: Acton, Ashland, Bedford, Berlin, Boxboro, Billerica, Carlisle, Concord, Framingham, Hopkinton, Hudson, Lincoln, Maynard, Marlboro, Northborough, Lowell, Saxonville, Stow, Southborough, Sudbury, Tewksbury, Wayland and Westborough.

Fresh Start Furniture Bank Seeks Donated Items and Volunteers

HUDSON: Fresh Start Furniture Bank is seeking donations of your gently used furniture, household goods and linens. Are you moving or downsizing? If you've been cleaning out your home or the home of a loved one and are looking for a good home for things you no longer need, please consider donating your items to us! Your donations help those in need.

Fresh Start is a volunteer-run, non-profit in Hudson that provides furniture, linens and housewares free of charge to qualified Massachusetts residents in need, as they transition to new housing. They provide almost everything they need in one trip, thanks to your donations. They typically help 10-15 families per week and need your donations to keep up their stock.

The following are just some of the items currently needed:

FURNITURE - sofas, dining tables, sets of kitchen/dining chairs, coffee tables, TV stands, full and queen beds;
HOUSEWARES - basic appliances (toasters, microwaves, etc.), pots and pans, drinking glasses, lamps;
LINENS - sheet sets, blankets and comforters, kitchen towels/oven mitts/placemats and towels.

In addition, they maintain an Amazon wish list for anyone interested in buying new items to help the cause. Items accepted are in good, clean condition only. All donations are tax deductible.

Please visit www.freshstartfurniturebank.org for a list of items they accept, or find them on Facebook for their latest needs. Additionally, they would be grateful for new packing materials (bubble wrap, etc.) or cash donations to help offset operating costs. Businesses take note: we can put those boxes that reams of copy paper come in to good use!

Household goods and linens can be dropped off at 16 Brent Drive in Hudson during business hours only: Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9am-12pm, and Saturdays from 8:30am-12:30pm. Furniture donations are accepted on Saturday mornings from 8:30-10:30am, no appointment necessary. Limited pick-ups can be arranged for larger donations.

Volunteers are always needed to load, unload, sort, clean, stock and distribute items. If you can help out for as little as three hours a month, please call (508) 485-2080, or through the website contact form. Teens welcome!

Learn About Mushrooms in Westborough

WESTBOROUGH: On September 11, from 1-3:30pm, learn about mushrooms with the Westborough Community Land Trust. Mushrooms, the fruiting bodies of fungi, are incredibly diverse in color, shape, and texture. They attract our senses with the variety they bring to the forest floor. Over one thousand species are known in Massachusetts! In addition to their beauty, they play a key role in forest ecology. Look at how to recognize and identify mushrooms, use several field guides, and discuss fungus ecology on a leisurely walk in a woodland trail setting. Edibility will not be discussed. Free, no registration required. Meet at the trailhead for the Libby/Wile Forest, at the end of Carroll Drive. Info: events@westboroughlandtrust.org.
Trail map: http://westboroughcharm.org/guide/maps/libbeywile_trail_map.pdf.

Play Indoor Badminton

LINCOLN/SUDBURY: Badminton demands constant actions: running, jumping, twisting, stretching, running backwards and striking. Players have been known to cover more than three 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 - birdies provided. Program stars September 21 and will run Wednesdays, 7-9pm. For info, contact Sudbury Lincoln High School Adult Education at adult.ed@lsrhs.net; 978-443-9961 x3326.

Sudbury Villagers kicks off its 50th year!

SUDBURY: The Sudbury Villagers club will kick off its 2022-2023 season on September 1 with a Coffee Social starting at 10am in the Community Room of the Goodnow Library, 21 Concord Road. The first meeting will be a brief presentation about upcoming programs. The club has a variety of monthly programs with speakers. It also has many activities including Lunch Bunch, Marathon Bridge,
Moh Jongg, book club, game day get-togethers, visits to various museums, a pot-luck holiday luncheon in December, spring tea, and a special 50th Anniversary luncheon in May. Their first activity will be a visit to The Butterfly Place in Westford on September 20.

Club members support the Thanksgiving collection for Sudbury families, the Sudbury Food Pantry and volunteer at the Senior Center. The Club also makes substantial donations to a variety of non-profits yearly. This meeting (and the Club itself) is open to all women in Sudbury and the area communities. For more information, write to sudbury_villagers@yahoo.com.

Fairy Houses at New England Botanic Garden Set to Capture Nature’s Magic: Enchanted Forest Opens September 10

BOYLSTON: New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill is excited to announce the opening of a magical new exhibit sure to transport Garden visitors into the world of the fairies. Enchanted Forest: Nature-Inspired Fairy Houses by Sally J. Smith will be on view from September 10 through October 30. Featuring a fabulous display of intricately designed, nature-inspired fairy houses, this immersive exhibit will welcome visitors of all ages to explore the wonder of the natural world as the seasons change.

Fairy houses, miniature dwellings typically built using found natural materials like bark, acorns, pine cones, stones, moss, and flowers, are meant to invite elusive fairy visitors, or simply add fun and playfulness to a home or garden. Smith’s highly artistic fairy houses, adorned with balconies, porches, eaves, tiled roofs, and even highly detailed windows that appear paned with colorful glass, are made largely from materials found in the forest near her home in New York’s Adirondack Mountain region. In recent decades, creating fairy houses has captured public imagination as a way to appreciate the beauty and nuance of nature.

“We all like to be surprised by something,” Smith says. “I enjoy challenging the viewer to realize these houses are made with birch bark and twigs, and that all of this comes from nature, with a few exceptions.”

Enchanted Forest will transform The Ramble, a 1.5 acre accessible, whimsical woodland garden for children and families that New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill opened in April. Four child-sized fairy houses topped with living roofs and several larger-than-life illuminated mushrooms will complement the exhibit. Each of Smith’s fairy houses will also be lit from within. Guests can enjoy this immersive display during the Garden’s daytime hours or at a series of special evening events scheduled on Fridays from September 30 to October 28. Known as Fairies Aglow, these family-friendly events will feature dazzling light displays, ethereal music, and a variety of enchanted activities that encourage guests to explore the wonders of the season.

“Enchanted Forest celebrates nature. It encourages us to pay attention to the wonders happening around us and to let these carry our imaginations to new places,” says Grace Elton, CEO of New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill. “This exhibit couldn’t be better suited for our newest garden, The Ramble, a space designed to spark curiosity.”

“What I hope my work does for people is connect them to nature and inspire them to have their own exploration with nature in some way,” Smith says about her vision for Enchanted Forest.

The daughter of an architect/nature photographer and garden-lover, Smith discovered inspiration in nature at young age. Her upbringing in a rural Vermont town on Lake Champlain influenced her creative path. For over 22 years, Smith worked as a professional watercolor artist. For the past 15 years Smith has focused primarily on sculpture informed by the natural world. Her contemporary work includes ephemeral land-art and photography, in addition to fairy house creations. She shares her technical skill and design knowledge in an instructional book, Fairy Houses: How to Create Whimsical Homes for Fairy Folk, published by Cool Springs Press, an imprint of Quarto Publishing.

To learn more about Sally J. Smith and her fairy houses visit https://sallyjsmithart.com/greenspirit-arts/faerie-houses/. For information on Enchanted Forest, Fairies Aglow, and other magical experiences coming up this fall at New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill visit https://nebg.org/enchanted-forest or contact Liz Nye at lnye@nebg.org.

Sudbury Announces Survey to Learn Community's Thoughts on Next Town Manager

SUDBURY: A community survey is available from the Town of Sudbury offering residents and local businesses the opportunity to share their thoughts regarding the skills and experience that the next Town Manager should possess.

“We are interested in learning about the skills and experience Sudbury’s residents and business community would like to see in their next Town Manager,” said Charlie Russo, Select Board Chair, on behalf of the Board. “It is critical that the Sudbury community is an integral part of this process.”

Sudbury has contracted with the consulting firm Community Paradigm Associates to assist in the search process. For the convenience of Sudbury residents, the survey is available in three formats:

Online: The online survey is available on the Town’s website and via the following link: https://forms.gle/MnDDnxheYT2G7n8f7

Paper: Those who prefer to complete a paper version of the survey may obtain a copy at the Town Clerk’s Office entry vestibule (322 Concord Rd), which is open 24/7. Look for the box marked “Town Manager Search Community Survey,” and return the completed form to the same location. Paper surveys are also available at the Senior Center (40 Fairbank Rd) during regular operating hours.

Phone: Those needing assistance with completing the survey, may do so over the phone by calling the Sudbury Senior Center at (978) 443-3055.

The survey will remain open through September 8, 2022. For more information, please contact the Sudbury Town Manager’s Office at (978) 639-3381.

Beth Tikvah Synagogue Open House

WESTBOROUGH: Are you looking for a synagogue with a family feel where everyone knows your name? Are you looking for a spiritual home with Jews of all different backgrounds and ages who seek answers and meaning and care about each other and the greater community? Consider Beth Tikvah Synagogue. The goal at Beth Tikvah Synagogue is to enrich Jewish life by providing for education, ritual, social growth and community service in a friendly welcoming atmosphere.

If you are you looking for a Hebrew School where your child will develop a positive
Jewish identity, Beth Tikvah features small class sizes and outstanding caring teachers and an engaging, experiential curriculum delivers a comprehensive Jewish education that includes Hebrew, Jewish culture and history, ethics, bible studies and more.

Want to learn more? There will be an Open House and barbecue at the Beth Tivkah Community Center, 30 Oak Street on Sunday August 28, from 4–6pm. Meet Rabbi Michael Swarttz, President EJ Dotts, Education Coordinator, Cindy Avergon, as well as other members of the board and congregation. You can also take a tour of the sanctuary at 45 Oak Street. Please RSVP to EJ Dotts at president@bethtikvahsynagogue.org.

You can find more information about Beth Tikvah Synagogue and what makes us unique at www.BethTikvahSynagogue.org.

St. Stephen to Welcome Pastor Mileski

MARLBOROUGH: On September 11, St. Stephen Lutheran Church will welcome Pastor Greg Mileski, who will serve as the church’s “regular supply pastor” until a new full-time pastor is called. St. Stephen is in a transitional time between pastors. In the Lutheran tradition, an interim pastor is assigned while the New England Synod looks for a new pastor to match the needs and goals of the congregation.

Pr. Joseph Graumann, who served St. Stephen from 2016 until the last Sunday in June of this year, accepted a new call to a church in his home state of New Jersey. Over the summer, parishioners have had the opportunity to meet and hear a variety of preachers.

Greg Mileski grew up in the Pittsburgh area and graduated from the University of Pittsburgh with a degree in Religious Studies. “In college I enjoyed classes in biology and chemistry,” he said, “but really gravitated toward my classes in religion and literature.” After college and before seminary, he spent three years as a first grade teacher in Henderson, NC, through the service organization, Teach for America, that sends college graduates to places that have difficulty attracting teachers,

Although he attended Trinity Lutheran Seminary in Columbus, Ohio, another seminary he visited, in South Carolina, was significant because it was there that he met his wife, Jenny, who was the admissions director. They married after seminary and moved to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan for his first call, where “ I enjoyed four years of parish ministry at United Lutheran Church in L’Anse, Michigan,” Pr. Mileski said. During this time, the Mileskis’ two children, Leo, now 9, and Lena, 8, were born.

More religious studies were to be next in his journey. “During these parish years,” he said, “ I realized that my love of studying religious traditions wasn’t going away and I came to wonder if I might be of best service to the Church by teaching about the traditions other children of God enjoy and helping us to think about how Christianity is related to them, how a world of multiple religions might be exactly what God has intended all along.”

The Mileskis moved to Boulder, Colorado, where Greg studied Buddhism at the University of Colorado and Naropa University, one of the very few Buddhist-affiliated universities in the country. Interested in pursuing a doctorate, he was drawn to Boston College, as one of the world’s leading institutions in Comparative Theology. Pr. Mileski notes this field asks: “If we deeply study another religious tradition, how does our understanding of Christianity change and become enriched by that study?” He hopes to earn his doctorate sometime in 2023, with a topic generally defined as “How Can We Be More Christ-like?”

“I am very excited to spend some time walking with St. Stephen Lutheran Church,” Pr. Mileski said, “helping all of us to grow our roots more deeply in this tradition that is centered around this truth: God Loves Us, and because of that we are free to love one another, exactly as much as we’ve always deep-down wanted to!”

MetroWest Conference for Women

Names Derith Cass & Sedruola Maruska Keynote Speakers for Upcoming Event

FRAMINGHAM: The MetroWest Conference for Women will be hosting its sixth annual event on September 15. Leading the speaker line-up is habit transformation coach, Derith Cass, as well as Sedruola Maruska, a Business Consultant and Podcast host. Each will provide a keynote address to the anticipated 300-plus attendees. The conference will highlight topics that align with the key trends of the day that matter most to local MetroWest women. Erica Ayisi, Journalist and Entrepreneur will emcee the daylong event.

The MetroWest Conference for Women remains affordable for as many women as possible with a ticket price of $52, which includes breakfast, lunch, swag bag and afternoon celebration with a female DJ and complementary wine and hors d’oeuvres following the full-day conference. Sponsors for the event include TJX, Avidia Bank, MutualOne, Wegmans, Definitive Healthcare, and more.

Derith Cass has been described as a “lover of life, fitness, and the human connection.” As a Habit Transformation coach she spends her time focusing on inspiring others to live a healthy lifestyle, and to fall in love with movement. Though she is a former athlete and coach by trade, she also puts a large emphasis on teaching positive behaviors and habits as well. Learn more about Derith here.

As an Author, Speaker, and Personal Development coach, Sedruola Maruska has dedicated her life to helping women set intentional goals, and change the trajectory of their lives. As a cancer survivor, she brings a unique perspective on perseverance and “rediscovering our lost selves.” Learn more about this inspiring speaker before the event here.

Erica Ayisi will be taking over as emcee for the annual conference, with an expansive background in journalism and
entrepreneurship. Erica is a freelance multimedia journalist, while also running an African Boutique called “Akosua’s Closet” on the side. She has been an exhibitor at She’s Local events for many years. Learn more about Erica here.

For more information on keynote speakers, sponsors, exhibitors and panelist, go to sheslocal.org/metrowest-conference-for-women.

She’s Local creates conferences for women with a shared objective to support, connect and inspire one another, close to home. They are the women that we meet every day who have unique stories to share and relevant words of wisdom for others facing similar challenges. Their mission is to provide accessible platforms for all women in local communities. Offering world-class conferences, highlighting local women and resources, at an affordable price.

The Northborough Free Summer Concerts Continue!

NORTHBOROUGH: The Northborough Community Affairs Committee continues to hold fun, family summer concerts into August! These concerts take place at Ellsworth-McAfee Park (Rt. 135) in Northborough from 5-7pm on Thursdays and Sundays. Food trucks and other food vendors are in attendance with some fun activities for children of all ages! Here is the exciting August line-up:

Way Up South - August 11, 5-7pm: Way Up South has been tearing up the New England club and festival scene and rapidly gaining a reputation as an explosive live band with a deep well of compelling original music and stellar musicianship. Their expansive sound incorporates a maturity and musicianship that weaves in and out of southern, blues, country, jazz, and Americana rock - music whose precision and finesse still retain the loose spacey qualities and epitomize improvisational rock bands. This style has earned them the right to call their music "Big Sky" sound. The food vendors will include Northborough House of Pizza, Dogfather, Uhlman's Ice Cream and Yummy Mummy Bakery.

Playing Dead - August 21, 5-7pm: Playing Dead is a Grateful Dead tribute band featuring former members of Dark Star Orchestra, Slipknot!, and Uncle John's Band. Their marathon sets feature music and jams from the entire Grateful Dead catalog. Playing Dead faithfully recreates the experience of a live Grateful Dead concert. The music of The Grateful Dead is a complex stew of different styles of music including rock, blues, jazz, folk, bluegrass and more. Their improvisational style and large repertoire guaranteed that every musical performance would be unique. Every Playing Dead show is equally unique featuring different set lists each night and exciting improvisational jams.

The food vendors will include Sabor Latino, Dogfather, Easy Street Tacos, Uhlman's Ice Cream and Yummy Mummy Bakery.

Sponsors: The Shay Family; Carvalho and Roth Orthodontics; Lexus of Northborough; Michelle Gillespie - Keller Williams Realty; Karen Scopetski - Coldwell Banker Realty; Main Street Bank; Flaherty Physical Therapy; and Mathnasium.

For more information about the Northborough Community Affairs Committee, visit www.northboroughcac.weebly.com.

Massachusetts Breast Cancer Coalition's Annual State-wide Against the Tide Multisport Virtual & In-person Events

Massachusetts Breast Cancer Coalition (MBCC) is hosting its annual, statewide Against the Tide athletic fundraising events as both virtual and in-person events this summer.

MBCC will hold its in-person Cape Cod Against the Tide event on August 13 at DCR’s Nickerson State Park in Brewster for the 23rd year. This event will feature a 1-mile recreational and competitive swim, a ½-mile recreational swim, 5K and 10K runs, a 3-mile walk, and a 1-mile USMS sanctioned swim.

Additionally, MBCC is offering participants the option to participate remotely in the Against the Tide August virtual event from August 6–13. The virtual event components include 1-mile recreational or competitive swims, a ½-mile recreational swim, 5K and 10K runs, and a 3-mile walk.

Registration for both the virtual and in-person options is $40 for an individual participant, and $100 for a family registration (up to 5 family members). Participants may register as an individual or as part of a team. Participants are encouraged to raise funds beyond the registration fees, as all proceeds support MBCC’s unique goal of breast cancer prevention. All participants will receive an event t-shirt. Prizes will be awarded for the top swim and run finishers of the in-person events. To learn more about all of the registration options or to make a pledge, please visit the MBCC website at www.mbcc.org/swim or call 508-246-3047.

Sudbury Housing Trust Offers Available Funding

SUDBURY: The Sudbury Housing Trust has funding available to Sudbury residents that have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The Mortgage Assistance Program is funded by federal ARPA funds to help residents maintain housing. If eligible, the Program will provide mortgage assistance in the form of a grant to be paid directly to lenders.
Funding will be provided to owners who meet the eligibility requirements and complete the application process, including ALL ATTACHMENTS. Funding is available on a first-come, first-served basis until funds are exhausted.

Program Details:

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, and eligibility is determined. Please email info@RHSOhousing.org to obtain an application.
If approved, Owner provides Lender’s W9, and Owner and Trust sign Participation Agreement.
Town issues payment/s payable to the Lender, forwarded by Owner to Lender. Owner is responsible for remaining amounts for taxes and insurance portion of payment.

Grant Amount: Up to $3,000 of assistance, in monthly payments payable to the holder of first mortgage, towards arrears of outstanding principal (since April 2020) or upcoming payment. Other housing costs (e.g., condo fees, escrowed insurance or taxes, home equity line of credit, or second mortgages, etc.) are not covered expenses.

Application Assistance:

Questions? Email info@RHSOhousing.org or call 978-287-1092
Need assistance filling out the application? Contact the Town Social Work Office at socialworker@sudbury.ma.us or call 978-440-5476
Favor de comunicarse en 978-287-1092 para ayuda gratis con el idioma.

Mail or Drop-off hard copy to: 37 Knox Trail, Acton MA 01720 (Black mail box at bottom of steps)

Northboro-Southboro Girls Softball - Fall Season Registration

NORTHBOROUGH/SOUTHBOROUGH: Northboro-Southboro Girls Softball, a division of Algonquin Baseball Softball Organization, is open to girls in grades K-12th for their Fall Season. All skill levels welcome. This program teaches girls how to play the game but also promoted FUN. The emphasis is on being part of a team and making new friendships.

When possible there are Northboro teams and Southboro teams. All teams will have a practice during the week (determined by the coach) and a game on the weekend. Proposed schedule is 8u on Saturdays and all other age groups on Sundays. They do try to work with soccer to avoid conflicts.

Team placement is based solely on players' birth dates - please use the below as a guide for the division in which your daughter would be placed:

6u Division: 01/01/2016 to 08/31/2017

8u Division: 01/01/2014 to 12/31/2015

10u Divison: 01/01/2012 to 12/31/2013

12u Division: 01/01/2010 to 12/31/2011

14u Division: 09/01/2008 to 12/31/2009

HS Division: Grades 9-12, Fall only

Registration is currently open at www.algonquinbsa.org/Default.aspx?tabid=1383610 and teams will start to be formed in August. Please register by August 5 to secure a spot on a team. The Fall season will run from approximately the week before school starts until mid-October. More information will be shared as the start of the season nears.If you have any questions about the program, please reach out to softball@algonquinbsa.org.

FINANCIAL FOCUS: Market decline offers buying opportunities

July 27, 2022

The financial markets have gotten off to a rocky start this year. What’s caused this volatility? And does it present opportunities for patient investors?

First of all, several factors are behind the market volatility, including the war in Ukraine, higher inflation, rising interest rates and the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, while these factors may be specific to the recent market decline, volatility itself is a common feature of the investment environment. In fact, history shows that corrections of 10% or more happen about every year, and declines of 15% or more have happened every other year, on average. Furthermore, while 2022 has thus far been challenging for investors, it was preceded by a long period of strong markets, with the S&P 500 averaging more than a 20% return over the past three years.

Knowing the typical frequency of market volatility and reviewing the results of the past few years may make the current situation seem less shocking. But you don’t have to simply “ride out” the downturn – because a down market may give you the opportunity to buy more investment shares at good prices. Specifically, you can expand your holdings in companies that have good growth prospects due to strong management and products or services that provide sustainable competitive advantages. And this type of opportunity is important, because one of the keys to building wealth is to increase the number of shares you own in your various investments and hold them for the long term. While the market will always fluctuate, the long-term trend has been positive, particularly for well-diversified portfolios built with quality investments.

Of course, while it is a good idea to boost your share ownership at favorable prices, you still want to be strategic about it, rather than just buying whatever seems to be the biggest bargain. In reviewing your existing portfolio, can you identify any gaps that could be filled with new investments? Are there opportunities to further diversify your holdings? By owning different types of stocks, bonds, government securities and other investments, you can help reduce the impact of volatility on your portfolio. (Keep in mind, though, that diversification can’t guarantee profits or prevent losses in declining markets.) Or, if your portfolio has become “unbalanced” in some way, you could also use this time to rebalance it back to its original long-term targets. You might also consider setting up a systematic investing program in which you invest the same amounts in the same investments on a regular basis, such as monthly. When prices go down, you’ll automatically buy more shares, and when prices rise, you’ll buy fewer shares. (However, systematic investing does not guarantee a profit or protect against loss and you’ll need to be willing to keep investing when share prices are declining.)
Before this year, average annual returns have been solid for about a decade, which makes it somewhat easy to forget about normal market volatility and may have led to overly optimistic performance expectations. So, it would not be surprising if your initial reaction to the current downturn is one of concern. But by viewing the current investment environment as a chance to add quality investments at attractive prices, you can help yourself develop a behavior that can serve you well throughout your life as an investor.

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Edward Jones, Member SIPC

Northboro-Southboro Girls Softball - Fall Season Registration

Team placement is based solely on players' birth dates - please use the below as a guide for the division in which your daughter would be placed:

6u Division: 01/01/2016 to 08/31/2017

8u Division: 01/01/2014 to 12/31/2015

10u Divison: 01/01/2012 to 12/31/2013

12u Division: 01/01/2010 to 12/31/2011

14u Division: 09/01/2008 to 12/31/2009

HS Division: Grades 9-12, Fall only

FINANCIAL FOCUS: Strengthen Your ‘Three-legged Stool’ for Retirement

July 18, 2022

For many years, Americans provided for their retirement needs through three sources: employer-sponsored pension plans, Social Security income, and savings and investments accumulated through employer plans or individual accounts – the so-called “three-legged stool.” But today, that stool is shakier than it used to be. What can you do to strengthen it?

To begin with, all three legs of the stool are facing challenges. Let’s consider them:

• Employer pensions – A generation ago, workers employed in many companies could count on a set monthly pension income to help them through their retirement years. Today, pensions – also known as defined benefit plans – are mostly found in public sector employment, as most private-sector employers have replaced their pensions with 401(k) and similar plans. These plans can be quite effective at helping build resources for retirement, but they do place most of the responsibility for saving on the employee.

• Social Security – Social Security has come under financial pressure because the workers-to-retirees ratio has declined significantly, according to the Social Security Administration’s 2021 Board of Trustees Report. A number of proposals have been brought forward on how to improve the long-term financial security of the Social Security system.

• Personal savings and investments – In terms of building savings and investments for retirement, the picture is somewhat mixed. The national savings rate has increased in recent years, but more than half of American workers still say their retirement savings are not where they should be, according to a 2021 survey from Bankrate, a personal finance website. And the same survey found that just over half of investors with a 401(k) or IRA have taken early withdrawals – that is, they withdrew money before they retired. Furthermore, we may be waiting too long even to begin saving/investing for retirement. A survey from Age Wave and Edward Jones found that respondents began saving for retirement at an average age of 38, but the majority said they should have started saving a decade earlier.

You have options for improving some parts of your own three-legged stool. For example, no matter what happens to Social Security, you can still decide when to start taking payments. You can begin collecting benefits as early as 62, but your monthly checks will be larger if you wait until your “full” retirement age, which will likely be between 66 and 67. You can even delay taking benefits until they “max out” at age 70.

As for a pension, you can’t control what’s available to you through your employer, but you can create your own retirement income stream by contributing as much as you can afford to your 401(k) or other employer-sponsored plan and by increasing your contributions whenever your salary goes up. And you can also contribute to an IRA or other investment vehicle to further boost your retirement funds. Try to leave these accounts intact until you need them for retirement. This will be easier if you’ve built an emergency fund, with the money kept in a liquid, low-risk account, to pay for unexpected costs, such as those resulting from a major car or home repair.

The three-legged stool may not be as universal as it once was – but you can still construct a sturdy structure to support your retirement needs in the future.

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Edward Jones, Member SIPC

Garden Party & Summer Auction 2022

SUDBURY: Join The Wayside Inn Foundation on August 5 from 6-8pm at a Garden Party in the Longfellow Garden to open their Summer Auction 2022! While enjoying the garden there will be hors d'eouvres, a cash bar (drink tickets $10), music, and lawn games, along with a curated silent auction. Our online auction will also open at 6pm and will run through the following week, closing August 12 at 9pm. In the event of rain, the party will move into The Wayside Inn's Event Tent.

Tickets are $40 for TWIF Members; $50 for Non-members. There are also a variety of sponsorships available:

- Gold Level - $1,000 – Reserved VIP hi-top table plus 4 tickets, logo/family name recognition
- Silver Level - $500 – 4 tickets plus logo/family name recognition
- Bronze Level - $250 - 2 tickets plus logo/family name recognition

Register today at http://tinyurl.com/TWIFGardenParty

This fundraiser supports Phase II of the Archives and Research Center project at the historic Gate House. This year's goal is $20,000 for archival equipment, furnishings and supplies to help preserve and protect their extraordinary collection of unique documents, artwork, business records, and objects dating from the 17th century to the present. Questions? Contact TWIF@wayside.org.

Marlborough Rotary Club Installs New Leadership Team

MARLBOROUGH: Past President Dave Brower (1996-97) presided over the Induction of incoming President Mark Vital. He explained that Mark will be following in the footsteps of previous Presidents and could look forward to the full support of the members of the club as he represents Marlborough Rotary at Rotary International, District, Community and Club events; upholds the ideals of Rotary as well as the by-laws of the Club; and agrees to inspire and motivate others to take an active role in not only service projects, but also fun and fellowship! He wished Mark the courage and vision to help make the world a better place but telling us, the members, how best to support him as he leads this 100-year-old, amazing Club. Reminding him that his fellow Rotarians had elected him because they believed in him, Dave wished Mark a year that will be, “the best year of your life.”

Mark took the podium to thank the Club and especially now PAST President Aaron for the generous guidance and support he had received to date and presented Aaron with a thank you gift. He then shared some inspiring and thoughtful remarks about his goals for the Club.
Being a runner himself, Mark Vital organized his thoughts around the acronym: F.A.S.T.:

Fellowship: Vital said, “We provide service to others, promote integrity and advance world understanding, goodwill and peace through our fellowship of business, professional and community leaders.” Every one of us has the opportunity through fellowship to lead a project and to make a difference and to accept ALL members as true Rotarians. I have always enjoyed our times together and I will do my very best to provide service and social opportunities that will only help us grow in fellowship.

Advocacy: Vital continued, “When we joined Rotary, we took an informal oath to put service above self. However, we also have a moral obligation to advocate for those in need and for those who can’t speak for themselves. We must speak out, educate and act on Rotary International’s eight areas of focus. They are: Basic education and Literacy; Maternal and Child Health; Peace and Conflict Prevention; Disease Prevention and Treatment; Water Sanitation and Hygiene; Community and Economic Development; and Support the Environment.”

Service: “As we all know,” he went on, “our Rotary has served the citizens of Marlborough for over 100 years. All of you continue to exemplify the values of Rotary and to serve those in need. As the Club’s President, my service project will be entitled the Rotary Homestead. The “homestead” will be an emergency program that provides services to homeless women and their children by supporting their residency at the Extended Stay Hotel until they gain long-term support.” This is a critical need in our community.

Team-Building: Lastly, Vital said, “The success of our club can easily be measured by how well we work as a team. Turkey Shoot is a perfect example of how collectively we can work as a team to achieve greatness. This year there will be more opportunities for each member to lead a team on either a fundraising event or a service project. More events…more teamwork is needed.”

In conclusion, Vital pledged, “The success of our club is everyone’s responsibility. With fellowship, advocacy, service and team building we can accomplish anything we choose! In closing, over the next 365 days I am simply asking for your passion to help others, commitment, and support! I am so humbled and excited to start!”

The new slate of officers for 2022-2023 are:

Mark Vital, President;
Heather Johnston, President Elect;
Heidi Borella, Vice President;
Alan Herzog, Treasurer;
Aaron Aykanian, Secretary; and
Sebastian Cordoba and Alan Sanchez, Co-Sergeants-at-Arms.

Visit the Marlborough Rotary at www.marlboroughrotary.org or find them on Facebook.

PHOTO: (Left to right) Secretary Aaron Aykanian, President Mark Vital, President-Elect Heather Johnston, Treasurer Alan Herzog, Sergeant-at-Arms Sebastian Cordoba, and Officiator Past-President Dave Brower (1996-1997).

Community Greening Initiative Blooms on Franklin Street: New England Botanic Garden and WooServes Student Volunteers Beautify Downtown Worcester

BOYLSTON: With the help of New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill, a group of local students recently kicked off a summer of community service by transforming a downtown Worcester street median into a beautiful pollinator haven. The students were part of WooServes Summer Youth Service Institute, a United Way of Central Massachusetts program that engages young people aged 13-17 in volunteer projects to address community needs in health, food insecurity, youth education, access to outdoor recreation, and more. Over six-weeks, students connect with their peers and learn the power they have as young people to make a difference in the community. They also gain valuable insight into local nonprofits working to build a vibrant and healthy Central Massachusetts region.

Twenty-eight WooServes participants, representing all Worcester Public High Schools, Nativity School of Worcester, Abby Kelley Charter Public School, Shrewsbury High School, and Millbury High School, joined members of the New England Botanic Garden team on Franklin Street in Worcester, near the YWCA. Garden staff provided guidance and all the tools needed to plant over 60 plants in the 3,000 square foot median. Many of the plants, like vibrant red coneflowers (Echinacea ‘Sombrero Sangrita’) were selected by Garden horticulturists to support pollinator biodiversity in the city. While students were digging holes and pulling invasive weeds, bees dusted with pollen could already be seen visiting the new flowers.

“Urban environments are part of complex ecosystems, and the presence of plants is essential to everyone’s well-being,” said Grace Elton, CEO of New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill. In cities, trees provide shade that can lessen the harmful effects of heat waves. Plants also improve stormwater management and promote biodiverse habitat.

“New England Botanic Garden is a beautiful place to escape into nature, but it’s also an organization committed to initiatives that bring people and plants together to solve environmental issues,” Elton continued. “We’re proud to partner with the United Way to create opportunities for young people to learn, to give back to the community, and to be inspired by the difference they can make.”

“Volunteering is something that’s always been really important to me,” said Alia Haytham of Shrewsbury. “The feeling you get when you’re helping, and you get to see someone smile—that’s a big part of who I am and who I want to be. I want to make people smile.” This is Haytham’s second year participating in the program.

“The United Way is excited to engage local teens this summer through our WooServes Summer Youth Service Institute. It helps build the next generation of philanthropists and civically engaged leaders,” said Emily McCann, Vice President of Community Engagement at United Way of Central Massachusetts. “Partnering with community agencies like the New England Botanic Garden helps to enrich the WooServes program experience through hands-on volunteer service projects.”

While 2022 marks New England Botanic Garden’s first time coordinating the WooServes kick-off project, the Garden collaborates annually with local organizations to establish and steward plants in Worcester where they are needed most. Currently, the Garden is planting the Lincoln Street rotary and working with Main South CDC to install sidewalk planters in a program known as Planters for People. Throughout the summer and fall, Garden staff will continue to care for the new plants at the Franklin Street median. Flowers will bloom for the community and for pollinators for weeks to come.

To learn more about the New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill and its community greening initiatives, contact Liz Nye at lnye@nebg.org or visit https://nebg.org/.

Become a Weed Warrior!

SUDBURY: Become a Weed Warrior and help remove invasive water chestnut from the Sudbury, Concord and Assabet Rivers! Only by consistent removal can we prevent our rivers from becoming choked with these weeds. OARS is recruiting volunteers to join OARS staff this July. Volunteers will be trained to identify water chestnut and how to pull it, working from a boat or on the land. Volunteers will need to provide their own kayak, canoe, or small watercraft, paddles, and lifejacket/ personal floatation device. To learn more and volunteer, please contact Russell Forester at outreach@oars3rivers.org.

OARS is a nonprofit, science-based organization that works to protect and restore the health and resiliency of the Assabet, Sudbury, and Concord Rivers and their watersheds. Visit www.oars3rivers.org for information.

Sign up Now for Summer Service Week

MARLBOROUGH: Reach out to others with food, friendship, peace and kindness, enjoy camaraderie and make new connections at the free Summer Service Week offered at St. Stephen Lutheran Church, 537 Bolton Street, July 25-28 from 6-8pm. Children and adults, families and individuals are all welcome to attend. Children 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

Each evening will begin with a simple supper provided by the church and then an overview of the Biblical basis for each day’s theme, followed by a hands-on service project to address a local need. Participants will put together healthy snack bags for the free-meal outreach, Our Father’s Table (Monday); fashion housewarming no-sew blankets for the clients of Fresh Start Furniture Bank (Tuesday); fill backpacks with fall school supplies for middle school and high school students served by the United Way (Wednesday); and create greeting cards for nursing home residents, along with a treat (Thursday).

Attend all four nights if your schedule permits; if not, participate when you can. To sign up for this free program, visit www.saintstephenlutheran.com/service-week.html.

Most of the materials needed for the service projects have been donated by church parishioners, while some supplies are being provided by Thrivent Financial, with Summer Service Week designated as a Thrivent Action Team project. For more information about St. Stephen Lutheran Church, visit www.saintstephenlutheran.com or
the church’s Facebook page.

PHOTO by Erika Giraud

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Shabbats on the Beach & Open Houses

WAYLAND/SUDBURY: Congregation B’nai Torah of Sudbury warmly invites the community to Shabbat on the Beach services and Open Houses at the Wayland Town Beach (25 Parkland Drive), this summer. Prospective members are welcome to join 30 minutes prior to each beach service to learn more about Congregation B’nai Torah. Sand toys, bubbles, and sidewalk chalk await families with young children who would like to meet members of our temple and learn more about our community. R.S.V.P. to membership@bnaitorah.com if you would like to attend. Bring your beach chairs (or blanket) and a picnic dinner, and enjoy the sunset while you share the beauty of Shabbat together as a community!

Services will take place on Friday, July 8 at 6:30pm (led by Rabbi Joshua Breindel of Congregation Beth El, Sudbury, and Rabbi Louis Polisson of Congregation Or Atid, Wayland); Friday, July 22, at 6pm (led by Rabbi Allison Poirier of Temple Beth Shalom, Framingham); Friday, August 5, at 6:30pm (led by Congregation B’nai Torah member Jeff Levine), and Friday, August 19, at 6:30pm (led by B’nai Torah’s Rabbi Lisa Eiduson with Rabbi Joshua Breindel of Beth El).

B’nai Torah, a reformed synagogue, welcomes families of all backgrounds—including interfaith families. The synagogue is located at 225 Boston Post Road, Sudbury. See bnaitorah.com or contact membership@bnaitorah.com or 978-443-2082 for further information on all programs and services.

Photo Credit: Sheldon Golder

WCLT Scholarships 2022 Awarded

WESTBOROUGH: The Westborough Community Land Trust (WCLT) awarded two $1,000 scholarships and two honorable mentions to graduating Westborough High School (WHS) seniors in 2022. These awards were given on the basis of student essays written for WCLT’s annual Earth Day Essay Contest.

Harrison Smith won a scholarship for his essay describing both his reawakening to nature and the beauty of Westborough through a surprise trailside encounter with a swan and his intention to “play the swan” by helping other people connect with nature. He will attend Boston College in the fall.
Chocoria Jiang received a scholarship for her essay describing the role that Lake Chauncy played in inspiring her appreciation for all bodies of water, the growth of her interest in the oceans and marine conservation, and her use of art to focus awareness on marine conservation issues. She plans to attend NYU for an individualized major in studio art, design, and environmental studies.

Sophie Scerbin received an honorable mention for her essay describing how positive experiences on the trails at Mill Pond with the Girl Scouts and at the Westborough Reservoir brought her closer to nature and inspired her to create a program with interactive activities that help children experience nature and the world outside their phones. She plans to attend Roger Williams University.
Lindsay Hall was recognized with an honorable mention for her essay describing how she found peacefulness in nature and relief from stress after tumbling to the ground while jogging on Mill Pond trails, and how she has been motivated to give back to the environment by picking up trash and seeking ways to protect the environment. She will attend a four-year college.

Read the winning essays on the WCLT website at https://westboroughlandtrust.org/pr/2022-scholarship-award.

Since 2006, WCLT has awarded 28 scholarships to graduating seniors in Westborough and 28 honorable mentions. With the Earth Day essay contest and scholarship program, WCLT aims to inspire young people to become keen observers of our natural spaces, as well as reflective thinkers regarding the impact of human activity on our environment.

PHOTO: Harrison Smith and Chocoria Jiang receive scholarship recognition from WCLT President Chris Sassetti
Credit: Janet Anderson

Northborough Free Summer Concerts Begin This Weekend!

NORTHBOROUGH: The Northborough Community Affairs Committee announced the return of their free Summer Concert Series for 2022! The 5 concerts will take place at Ellsworth-McAfee Park (Rt. 135) from 5-7pm on Thursdays and Sundays. Food trucks will be back again this year along with some fun activities for children! These concerts are lots of fun for all ages! Here is the summer line-up:

Cold Spring Harbor- Sunday, June 26
Cold Spring Harbor is a Billy Joel and Elton John tribute band consisting of eight fantastic musicians and great friends from the North Shore Greater Boston area. Everyone in the Cold Spring Harbor group, founded in 2013 and formerly "The Strangers", is a dedicated musician whose goals are professionalism, playing music and having fun while doing so. The food vendors will include Northborough House of Pizza, Kith and Kin, Uhlman's Ice Cream and Yummy Mummy Bakery.

Stomp 'N Holler - Thursday, July 14, 5-7pm
New England's Premier Country and Americana since 2015 - it is feel-good music for the masses. Performing a fun mix of originals, and country and classic rock favorites. From classics to the golden 80's to current hits to classic rock crossovers and you've got one foot stompin' party! The food vendors will include Northborough House of Pizza, Dogfather, Uhlman's Ice Cream and Yummy Mummy Bakery.

Cold Chocolate - Sunday, July 24
Cold Chocolate is a genre- bending Americana band that fuses folk, funk and bluegrass to create a unique sound all their own. Punctuated by tight harmonies and skillful musicianship, Cold Chocolate has quickly gained recognition for their original music and high-energy shows. The food vendors will include Northborough House of Pizza, Easy Street Tacos, Uhlman's Ice Cream and Yummy Mummy Bakery.

Way Up South- Thursday, August 11
Way Up South has been tearing up the New England club and festival scene and rapidly gaining a reputation as an explosive live band with a deep well of compelling original music and stellar musicianship. Their expansive sound incorporates a maturity and musicianship that weaves in and out of southern, blues, country, jazz, and Americana rock - music whose precision and finesse still retain the loose spacey qualities and epitomize improvisational rock bands. This style has earned them the right to call their music "Big Sky" sound. The food vendors will include Northborough House of Pizza, Dogfather, Uhlman's Ice Cream and Yummy Mummy Bakery.

Playing Dead - Sunday, August 21
Playing Dead is a Grateful Dead tribute band featuring former members of Dark Star Orchestra, Slipknot!, and Uncle John's Band. Their marathon sets feature music and jams from the entire Grateful Dead catalog. Playing Dead faithfully recreates the experience of a live Grateful Dead concert. The music of The Grateful Dead is a complex stew of different styles of music including rock, blues, jazz, folk, bluegrass and more. Their improvisational style and large repertoire guaranteed that every musical performance would be unique. Every Playing Dead show is equally unique featuring different set lists each night and exciting improvisational jams. The food vendors will include Sabor Latino, Dogfather, Easy Street Tacos, Uhlman's Ice Cream and Yummy Mummy Bakery.

For more information about the Northborough Community Affairs Committee, visit our website at www.northboroughcac.weebly.com.

Pastor Graumann to Leave St. Stephen Lutheran Church

MARLBOROUGH: Sunday worship at St. Stephen Lutheran Church on June 26 will be a celebration, but one tinged with sadness as the church marks its last Sunday with Pastor Joseph Graumann at the helm. Pastor Graumann, who has been at St. Stephen since August 1, 2016, has accepted a call in his home state of New Jersey. Ironically, that congregation is St. Stephen’s Lutheran Church, in Woodbury, NJ.

St. Stephen, Marlborough, was Pastor Graumann’s first call after he graduated from Gettysburg Seminary. He reflected on his time with his first congregation and what he looks forward to in his next call: "My time in Marlborough has been a tremendous gift. St. Stephen is a dynamic and vibrant congregation that puts welcoming others and blessing its community at the center of its identity. They have shown me that same welcome and same blessing in my time here. Their
culture of fun is something to aspire to going forward,” he said. “While my current call is hard to leave, I am thrilled to be returning home to New Jersey. I look forward to being closer to family and friends and to joining another dynamic, welcoming congregation. There must be something about the name, ’Stephen'.

For the people of St. Stephen, Marlborough, they will engage in the process of calling their next spiritual leader. In the Lutheran tradition, an interim pastor is assigned while the New
England Synod looks for a new pastor to match the needs and goals of the congregation. Interim clergy are often pastors who specialize in this role. The search and call process can take a year or more, and typically includes an online survey for parishioners, part of the thoughtful assessment and prayerful discernment about their work together in ministry and mission. St. Stephen Lutheran, as a congregation of the New England Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, is assigned a liaison, who works with both churches and candidates to share information and facilitate good matches.

In church calendar language, the time between Pentecost and Advent is also known as “ordinary time,” but the service on June 26 will be far from ordinary as it celebrates not only the Gospel, but also St. Stephen’s beloved pastor. There will be special music from the handbell and vocal choirs during the worship service, and a reception following the service.

Free Guided Tours of Sudbury's Historic Meetinghouse

SUDBURY: You have driven past Sudbury's Historic Meetinghouse a thousand times. But you probably don't know who built it and when, why it is Sudbury's anchor to the past, why it was built on this hill, and what it looks like inside. In conjunction with Sudbury's 4th of July parade, and in honor of Sudbury Town Center's Tri-Centennial Celebration, we are offering FREE guided tours of the Meetinghouse, 327 Concord Road, on July 4 at 11am and 2pm. Aline Kaplan will take you on a tour of the meetinghouse, inside and out.

You will:

See hand-hews beams salvaged from the earlier, smaller, structure,
See the Cole and Woodbury tracker-action pipe organ,
Peer up into the clock tower and learn about the flatbed-striker clock that chimes the hours
Sound the Holbrook bell that chimes the hours for Sudbury residents,
Go into the Minister's original office,
See the horse-and-buggy sheds,
Walk through the Memorial Garden behind the building.

Aline Kaplan, a resident of Sudbury for 37 years and a member of the First Parish of Sudbury, is a professional tour guide in Boston. She has been leading architectural and historical tours of the city since 2013 and has a voluminous knowledge of Boston's history. She brings her experience to the meetinghouse tours and will make the building come alive for you and your family. This is a great opportunity to show your children inside the building they have been looking at for years and teach them its importance to the town of Sudbury.

Reserve your spot and read more about the Meetinghouse's history at fpsudbury.org/300.
Contact 978-443-2043 or office@fpsudbury.org for further information.

Shir Joy Chorus Presents “Songs of Prayer & Wonder”
A Virtual Concert

WESTBOROUGH: On Sunday, June 26 from 7pm-8:30pm on Zoom, Shir Joy Chorus will celebrate summer with a live-recorded, virtual concert. The theme — “Songs of Prayer & Wonder” — reflects the group’s love of music and hope for a brighter future. The concert will feature selections in Hebrew, English, Yiddish, and Ladino. This concert is free, but registration is required.

This concert makes use of live recordings made under prevailing Covid-19 safety protocols. Masking and distancing kept singers safe, while multiple cameras provided views attendees don’t usually get at concerts. The end result is the best technological adaptation to distanced singing and the next best thing to being there.

Throughout the pandemic, Director Nan AK Gibbons has helped Shir Joy navigate through uncharted musical waters:

The chorus participated in Zoom rehearsals, where they could sing along with fellow members but couldn’t hear them because of the limitations of the technology.
Singers recorded their parts alone at home, and Nan wove all the parts together into virtual chorus videos.
Chorus members gathered in their rehearsal spot parking lot and sang into wireless mics, listening to their fellow singers on their car radios. This was a great improvement in singing together, but singers couldn’t really see each other because rehearsals were in the evening. Nan and the chorus accompanist led the rehearsals from the front, with portable lights.

Donations are appreciated but not required. Preregistration is required to obtain a Zoom link: www.shirjoychorus.com/reservations. For more information about the concert, please email ShirJoyMA@gmail.com or ShirazAtidah@gmail.com. For more information about Shir Joy Chorus, go to www.shirjoyMA.com.

The Wayside Inn Foundation to Host Reading Frederick Douglass Together June 25th

SUDBURY: The Wayside Inn Foundation is pleased to announce that it is hosting Reading Frederick Douglass Together at The Wayside Inn on Saturday, June 25 at 10am. The program is funded, in part, by a grant from Mass Humanities as part of an initiative to bring communities together to read Douglass’s 1852 Fourth of July address.

On the morning of the event, readers will gather on the patio of Longfellow’s Wayside Inn (72 Wayside Inn Road in Sudbury) to read the address (sections will be assigned in advance). Afterward, everyone will break up into small groups to eat a light continental breakfast and informally discuss Douglass’s speech and how it continues to shape our country.
Frederick Douglass escaped slavery in 1838 and lived for many years in Massachusetts. He delivered the Fourth of July speech on July 5, 1852, in Rochester, New York, to the Rochester Ladies’ Anti-Slavery Society. The most celebrated orator of his day, Douglass’s powerful language, resolute denunciations of slavery, and forceful examination of the Constitution challenge us to think about the histories we tell, the values they teach, and if our actions match our aspirations.

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, the namesake of Longfellow’s Wayside Inn, and Douglass found inspiration in one another’s words. Douglass quoted Longfellow’s 1839 poem “A Psalm of Life” in his 1852 address; and Longfellow reflected on Douglass’s words after seeing him speak in April 1860, the echoes of which can be found in his famous poem, “Paul Revere’s Ride” (later included in Tales of a Wayside Inn).

This community event is free, and families are encouraged to attend and participate together. Volunteer readers may sign up at https://bit.ly/RFDTsignup2022.

Live Music, Beer Garden & Sunsets: New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill kicks off “Thursday Summer Evenings at the Garden”

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BOYLSTON: The New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill is staying open late on Thursdays with the return of Thursday Summer Evenings at the Garden, a series of weekly events that embrace the joys of summertime, after hours.

Each Thursday through August 25, visitors are invited to explore the Garden by evening (5-9pm in June and July, 5-8pm in August) and enjoy live music, craft beer, wine, small bites, lawn games, and more. In between strolling the gardens and hiking trails, guests can view Uprooted, an exhibit of eleven immersive land art installations and four mixed-media paintings by artist and landscape architect W. Gary Smith. Also on display is ROOTED, an exhibit of botanical illustrations by members of The New England Society of Botanical Artists.

Throughout the series of events, people of all ages will also find creative, nature-inspired classes in which to take part. The schedule and registration can be found online. From lessons on botanical mixology and nature photography, to sunset yoga and firefly walks, opportunities abound to relax and rejuvenate in the Garden oasis.

“A long summer evening is a perfect time to unwind in nature and to experience all that the Garden has to offer in a new light,” said Grace Elton, CEO of New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill. “We’re thrilled to bring this event series back this year. We hope Thursday becomes a day people look forward to all week long.”

Thursday Summer Evenings at the Garden are rain or shine events. Evenings are included with the cost of General Admission, and guests are encouraged to purchase tickets in advance to secure their preferred date. Details about ticket sales and the full schedule of live music and special weekly programs are available at https://nebg.org/thursday-summer-evenings.

Sudbury Housing Trust Offers Mortgage Relief Program

SUDBURY: The Sudbury Housing Trust is pleased to announce a mortgage relief program to Sudbury residents that have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The Mortgage Assistance Program is funded by federal ARPA funds to help residents maintain housing. If eligible, the Program will provide mortgage assistance in the form of a grant to be paid directly to lenders.

Funding will be provided to owners who meet the eligibility requirements and complete the application process, including ALL ATTACHMENTS. Funding is available on a first-come, first-served basis until funds are exhausted.

Program Details:

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, and eligibility is determined. Please email info@RHSOhousing.org to obtain an application.
If approved, Owner provides Lender’s W9, and Owner and Trust sign Participation Agreement.
Town issues payment/s payable to the Lender, forwarded by Owner to Lender. Owner is responsible for remaining amounts for taxes and insurance portion of payment.

Grant Amount:
Up to $3,000 of assistance, in monthly payments payable to the holder of first mortgage, towards arrears of outstanding principal (since April 2020) or upcoming payment. Other housing costs (e.g., condo fees, escrowed insurance or taxes, home equity line of credit, or second mortgages, etc.) are not covered expenses.

Application Assistance:

Questions? Email info@RHSOhousing.org or call 978-287-1092
Need assistance filling out the application? Contact the Town Social Work Office at socialworker@sudbury.ma.us or call 978-440-5476
Favor de comunicarse en 978-287-1092 para ayuda gratis con el idioma.

Mail or Drop-off hard copy to: 37 Knox Trail, Acton MA 01720 (Black mail box at bottom of steps)

$300,000 Secured in Senate FY23 Budget to support new Marlborough Library
State funds will provide furniture, technology and equipment to library

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MARLBOROUGH: State Senator Jamie Eldridge (D-Acton) secured a $300,000 earmark for the new Marlborough Library that is currently under construction. The construction on the new Marlborough Public Library began in September 2021. Last week, the Massachusetts State Senate passed a $49.78 billion budget for Fiscal Year 2023 (FY23). The newly constructed and renovated library will be ADA compliant, have a certified sustainable design, and a large auditorium.
With unanimous support, the budget makes significant, critical and targeted investments in the areas of education, healthcare, housing and community support to meet the on-the-ground challenges brought on by the global pandemic and ongoing financial uncertainty.

The construction on the Marlborough Public Library began in September 2021. The 100+ year old original building is being renovated and a new addition added to create a state-of-the-art facility that will be ADA compliant, have a certified sustainable design, and a large auditorium.

“I am proud that the city of Marlborough, in partnership with Mass Board of Library Commissioners, moved forward in 2021 to begin construction of a new public library in Marlborough,” said Senator Eldridge (D-Acton). “I’m very happy to pass this $300,000 budget amendment to help support the library having the necessary equipment, furniture and technology to be accessible to all Marlborough residents.”

The Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners provided a substantial grant towards the library construction. The Marlborough Public Library Foundation – a non-profit organization founded over twenty years ago – has been a strong supporter of the project. The Foundation has set a goal of raising $2 million to pay for furniture, equipment ,technology and other items not covered by the MBLC grant for the new library. The funds in this earmark are directed to the Foundation.

“We express gratitude to our donors including the Commonwealth for their continued support with the library expansion project. We are especially grateful to Senator Eldridge for securing these much-needed funds at a critical time in the Foundation’s fundraising efforts. Our combined efforts will bring prosperity to the city’s communities with free services, enriching educational opportunities, and the capital necessities that will be vital to supporting these initiatives for years to come.” stated William Keyles, the President of the Marlborough Library Foundation.

The Senate’s FY23 Budget is available on the Massachusetts legislature’s website, by clicking here. Now that the Senate and Massachusetts House of Representatives have passed their respective budget proposals, both branches will now work together, form a conference committee and reconcile differences.

Senator Eldridge Announces High Quality Summer Learning Grants to the Harvard and Sudbury Public Schools
Public Schools in Sudbury and Harvard will receive funding for comprehensive summer learning opportunities

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HARVARD/SUDBURY: Senator Jamie Eldridge (D-Acton) announced recently two grants awarded to Harvard and Sudbury Public Schools by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). Sudbury Public Schools were awarded $100,000 and Harvard public schools received $75,000.
The purpose of this state and federal competitive grant is to support the development and expansion of high-quality, comprehensive summer learning opportunities and partnerships in districts to address both the academic and social-emotional impacts of COVID-19 on students.

“My sincere congratulations to the Sudbury and Harvard school districts, and their educational leaders, on receiving the grant. The fund allows these two schools in the district to create engaging summer programs and support students who may have been impacted by the change in learning in the schools, as a result of the pandemic,” said Senator Eldridge. “I want to thank DESE for its work, and providing these grants to the Harvard and Sudbury schools.”

“The Sudbury Public Schools worked incredibly hard to provide a quality education for all students during the pandemic,” said Representative Carmine Gentile (D-Sudbury). “I am delighted to learn that they were chosen to receive this grant to further meet the academic and social emotional impacts which COVID-19 had on our students and deliver comprehensive learning opportunities for students this summer” Gentile added.

“I am so glad to see Harvard receive this funding for summer learning offerings,” said Representative Danillo Sena (D- Acton). Expanding educational opportunities for our students is critical, and I am grateful to DESE for awarding Harvard with this grant."

Schools will use the fund to develop a new summer program and offer at least 150 hours of evidence/research-based programming with a focus on academic and social-emotional learning opportunities. With the grant, schools will offer engaging and interactive programming, including enrichment and recreation activities, that will excite and motivate students to attend, build relationships, and promote youth voices.

Summer learning will be carried out in a culturally responsive, anti-racist, and welcoming environment, through partnerships with community-based organizations for cost and resource-sharing to address the needs of the district and families.

A total of $4,000,000 were awarded to schools across the Commonwealth. The funding was made possible through the state’s summer learning budget, federal Elementary & Secondary Education Emergency Relief (ESSER), and the Governor’s Emergency Education Relief (GEER) funds.

Several Sudbury Town Offices Following Summer Schedule

SUDBURY: Starting July 12 through August 27, 2021, some Town offices will be following a four day (Monday – Thursday) summer schedule. Friday, July 16 will be the first Friday that offices are closed. Employees will work the same number of hours each week by working extended hours Monday through Thursday.

Summer Schedule Hours
The revised summer schedule will begin Monday, July 11, 2022, and will affect offices in Town Hall and the Flynn Building. Offices in these two buildings will be closed on Fridays from July 15th through August 26th, with the exception of the Select Board/Town Manager’s Office and IT Department, which will observe their regular Monday – Friday schedule. In addition, the Town Clerk’s Office will be observe regular 5-day schedule from August 15 through August 26 in order to accommodate early voting. Offices will be open to serve the public with extended hours as follows:

Monday, Wednesday and Thursday from 8am to 5pm.
Tuesday from 8am to 7pm.
Friday closed

The following Town departments will be following this compressed schedule:

Assessor
Human Resources
Planning and Community Development
Tax Collector/Treasurer
Town Accountant
Town Clerk (7/11/22-8/12/22)
Veterans’ Services (please check website for office hours)

The following offices will NOT be observing the summer schedule and will be operating on regular hours: Atkinson Pool, Building Department, Conservation, Council on Aging, Engineering, Fire Department, Goodnow Library, Health Department, Highway Department, Information Systems, Police Department, Public Works, Recreation Department and Select Board/Town Manager’s Office.

All offices will return to their regular Monday – Friday schedule beginning Monday, August 29th.

Nourse Farm in Westborough Celebrates 300 years in Agriculture

WESTBOROUGH: Nourse Farm will be hosting a 300th Anniversary Celebration weekend on Saturday and Sunday, June 18 and 19 from 11am to 4pm. Since 1722, the Nourse Family has continuously owned and operated this 140-acre farm, situated on the border of Westborough and Grafton. Today, members of the 8th, 9th and 10th generation are active on the farm, continuing the traditions of their ancestors.

Opening the celebration weekend, at 12 noon on Saturday, Congressman Jim McGovern will be joined by state and local elected officials and Massachusetts agriculture leaders to unveil the tricentennial plaque.

The purpose of the weekend is to “celebrate the legacy of the farm,” according to David Nourse, 8th generation owner of Nourse Farm. Events will be ongoing both days, including an oxen pull, music, tractor and agricultural displays, hayrides, petting zoo, cow talk, film screening, geology hike, walking tours, meet the farmer with Jon Nourse, and strawberry picking. The complete schedule is posted on the farm website.

Food offerings will include VegOut @ Nourse Farm, the Nourse Farm food trailer serving a plant forward menu, strawberry desserts at the farm store, and barbeque at the Big T’s Jerky food truck.

Nourse Farm was founded in 1722 by descendants of Rebecca Nurse, who was unjustly hung during the Salem witchcraft trials. Since then, Nourse Farm has been family-owned and is one of the oldest continuously running business in the country. “Each generation has run enterprises on the farm that suit the different time periods,” according to Jon Nourse, who has built the current Pick-Your-Own, CSA and retail business since 1972, currently marking his 50 years in farming.

From its origins as a small family farm through to commercial dairy production, and now fruit and vegetables, Nourse Farm represents an agricultural heritage that is part of Westborough’s past, present and future. Today’s local food movement has created a surge of interest in buying local, fresh fruit and vegetables, and the farm is proud to showcase its history and harvest.

The Nourse family welcomes the entire community to visit the farm on its 300th Anniversary Celebration weekend and savor the authenticity of the oldest farm in town, through its land, landscape, and farming commitment. Enjoy this free, fun, family day. For further information, contact Nourse Farm at 508-366-2644 and visit the website at www.noursefarm.com.

Minuteman High School's Students of the Term Announced for Term 3

LEXINGTON: Minuteman High School recently recognized four students from Stow, Arlington, Lexington, and Needham with the Student of the Term Award. The award is based on nominations from teachers and celebrates both academic achievement and good citizenship. One student is awarded per grade. Assistant Principal Brian Tildsley surprised the students, presenting them their awards in class. Later in the week the winners received a certificate and a free lunch with the staff members who nominated them in The District Restaurant at Minuteman.

The Students of the Term for Term 3 are:

Danieliz Calderon of Needham, a senior in the Culinary Arts and Hospitality program. “Danieliz prevailed against many obstacles she faced during the COVID-19 pandemic and has demonstrated exceptional progress,” said Anita Currier, culinary arts teacher. “We admire her fortitude and courage. We are immensely proud of her accomplishments and commitment to success.” During her participation in the student Top Chef competition, Calderon received The Superintendent’s Special Award for her shrimp taco dish.

Jamie Lehoux of Lexington, a junior in the Metal Fabrication and Welding program. “I have seen tremendous growth from Jamie in welding and academics,” said Denise D’Ambrosia, teacher’s aide. “She is always pushing herself to be a better welder, including by working with more difficult metals such as aluminum. She is constantly involved with new projects and is always willing to learn and take feedback.” Lehoux participated in the SkillsUSA Districts competition in February.

Nick Krain of Arlington, a sophomore in the Automotive Technology program. “Nick has excellent attendance, is very conscientious, and is always prepared for shop,” said Don Melanson, automotive teacher. “I consider him one of the top students. He’s an excellent example for others.”

Robert Emken of Stow, a freshman in the Programming and Web Development program. “Robert is very conscientious, always having his homework done and coming [in] for extra help when need be,” said Connie Maynard, Spanish teacher. “He always works hard… It’s great to see.”

Minuteman is an award-winning regional career and technical high school and continuing education institution that integrates robust academic and technical learning. As an accredited member of the New England Association of Schools & Colleges (NEASC), Minuteman challenges all students to aspire to their full potential, accelerate their learning, and achieve success in the 21st-century global community. Located in Lexington in a new state-of-the-art facility, Minuteman’s member towns are Acton, Arlington Bolton, Concord, Dover, Lancaster, Lexington, Needham, and Stow.

PHOTO: The students (from left, front row) are Robert Emken of Stow, Jamie Lehoux of Lexington, Danieliz Calderon of Needham, and Nick Krain of Arlington. Back row: English as a Second Language teacher Daniela Das, Spanish teacher Connie Maynard, Principal George Clement, Culinary Arts teacher Martin McElhinney, and Automotive teacher Don Melanson.

Marlborough Rotary Club Celebrates Centennial in Grand Style with Dinner, Awards & Announcement of a Joint Project with City

MARLBOROUGH: Founded in May 1922, the Marlborough Rotary Club celebrated its Centennial in grand style at a banquet recently at the Best Western Royal Plaza Hotel. The evening started with an invocation by Club member Rev. Michael J. McKinnon of Holy Trinity Anglican Church, a ringing of the Club’s bell for its deceased members, and a video “welcome” from Rotary International President Shekhar Mehta of India.

Proclamations of congratulations were presented by the City of Marlborough, State Representative Danielle Gregoire on behalf of the Massachusetts State Legislature and, and State Senator Jaimie Eldridge on behalf of the Massachusetts State Senate.

Guest Speaker, Ned Eames Founder and CEO of Tenacity Inc., told his story of how he saw the need to raise the level of academic achievement among inner city youth, and did so using tennis instruction and competition to engage them and sustain academic interest in these youths with a competitive spirit in inner city youth. His efforts have substantially raised the percentage of graduation and college entrance in Boston, and he plans to do the same in Worcester. His efforts mirror those of Rotary – to see a problem and work out a solution – that President Aaron Aykanian awarded him a Paul Harris Fellow; a high award issued through the Rotary Foundation.

President Aaron Aykanian also presented a Paul Harris Fellow award to Past President Alan Herzog for his efforts in keeping the club together throughout the Pandemic and providing food to the elderly and veterans during that time of need.

To end the evening, Emcee Sem Aykanian announced a joint project of the Rotary Club and the City of Marlborough to create a Rotary Centennial Park at the junction of Route 20 and Williams Street, adjacent to the Marlborough District Courthouse. The park would serve as a beginning and end point for the proposed walking trail surrounding Lake Williams.

The evening was a festive affair that included background music of the Roaring Twenties style and displays of past Rotary events and talent shows.

Sudbury Plans Memorial Day Events

SUDBURY: Sudbury’s Memorial Day observance will take place on Monday, May 30, when community members may view the Memorial Day Parade or join the march to all the War Memorials in Sudbury. Spectators can honor an outstanding Sudbury citizen serving as Parade Marshal, listen to the patriotic strains of the Sudbury Ancient Fyfe and Drum Companie, and hear Sudbury Companies of Militia and Minute, as well as Company F 12th Georgia Infantry, fire musket and rifle salutes.

The parade and ceremonies honor veterans of all wars that involved Sudbury’s residents, starting with King Philip’s War of 1676. During these Memorial Day events, the community especially remembers men and women who sacrificed their lives in service of the United States. The observance is planned by the Town’s Memorial Day Committee. New members are welcome to join to help plan the 2023 event. For information, see https://sudbury.ma.us/memorialday.

Michael Malavasic, a Sudbury resident of 10 years, will serve as Parade Marshall. Mike served with the U.S. Army for four years, including a tour of duty in Vietnam during the war. He is an active member of the Vietnam Veterans of America and the Veterans of Foreign Wars. He will shortly assume the role of Quartermaster of 1LT Scott Milley VFW Post 8771 in Sudbury.

The main part of the parade begins at 9:30am at Rugged Bear Plaza, 410 Boston Post Road, where the Parade Marshall and Boy Scouts will join members of the Sudbury Military Family Network and veterans’ organizations. All veterans are invited to join in the line of march at Rugged Bear Plaza. Uniforms are not required. Civilian clothes which respect the dignity of the occasion (dark slacks, white dress shirt, and hat that signifies branch of service or veterans’ organization are appropriate). Transportation will be provided for those who wish to participate but are not capable of marching along. The parade marches east along Route 20, then north on Concord Road, with stops at the Goodnow Library Civil War Monument, the Wadsworth Monument (King Philip’s War) and the World War II, Korean and Vietnam Memorials at Wadsworth Cemetery. Musket and rifle salutes will be fired at each stop by the Sudbury Companies of Militia and Minute, Company F 12th George Infantry, American Legion, and Veterans of Foreign Wars.

The parade continues north on Concord Road. At Our Lady of Fatima Church, Girl Scouts and Brownies join the marchers. At about 11am, the parade reaches Grinnell Park in the town center for tributes at the World War I Monument, followed by the Memorial Day program.

The Sudbury Ancient Fyfe and Drum Companies will perform musical selections, followed by musket and rifle salutes. The Girl Scouts and Brownies will sing and share a poem. The Parade Marshall will be recognized and then deliver remarks. Finally, the names of Sudbury veterans who have passed since the last Memorial Day observance, which was held in 2019, will be read. Taps will be played by Capt. Paul Mawn, USN (retired).
Memorial Day activities begin at Heritage Park at noon. The Sudbury Historical Commission welcomes all to visit the Hosmer House, 299 Old Sudbury Road. The residence will be open from 11am-2pm on May 30 with a display in the parlor honoring town employees and members of town committees who passed away since 2020. Shoppers at the Hosmer House store will find the colorful Sudbury Throws, cup plates and books for sale. Refreshments will be served; entrance is free of charge.

Parade Route and Approximate Schedule:

7:30am: Revolutionary War Memorial Salute and Revolutionary War Cemetery
8:30am: Commemorative ceremonies at Old North and New North Cemeteries
9am: Parade assembles at Rugged Bear Plaza
9:30am: Parade begins at Rugged Bear Plaza
9:50am: Civil War Monument at Goodnow Library
10am: Colonel Bonazzoli Salute, Wadsworth Monument Salute
10:25am: WWII, Korea, and Vietnam War Monuments, Wadsworth Cemetery
10:45am: Girl Scouts and Brownies join parade at Our Lady of Fatima
11am: WWI Memorial and Memorial Day Program, Grinnell Park, Town Center

Boys & Girls Clubs of Metrowest Honor Inductees Into Hall of Fame

MARLBOROUGH: The Boys & Girls Clubs of MetroWest will be hosting their Hall of Fame Induction Breakfast on May 19 at 7:30am at the Courtyard by Marriott. BGCMW will be honoring six individuals who have been committed to the Clubs – personally, professionally, and/or financially – throughout the MetroWest community. As a 78 year old institution with well-established roots in Marlborough and the surrounding communities, it is so important that the volunteers and staff who have been champions for BGCMW are celebrated.

“The Hall of Fame is a special time to honor the individuals who have dedicated their lives to supporting our community’s youth.” said Chris Duane, President and CEO, “It is an honor to carry on their legacy in building great futures.”

This year’s Hall of Fame inductees include Rosemary Corley, BGCMW Board of Director; Joshua Major-Paschal, Framingham Clubhouse Alumni; Bill Miller, Founder of Marlborough Youth Basketball Association; Paul Mina, CEO of United Way of Tri-County & Marylou Vanzini, Founder of Marlborough Girls Club. The Ron Young Memorial Award will also be given to Patty Miele, former Executive Assistant to the BGCMW President.

If you are interested in purchasing a ticket to the Hall of Fame Induction Breakfast or to make a gift on behalf of an inductee, please visit https://HallofFameMW.givesmart.com.

Northborough Cultural Council’s 4th Annual CultureFest of Music & Arts

NORTHBOROUGH: The Northborough Cultural Council’s 4th Annual CultureFest of Music & Arts is an inclusive event that strives to bring together our town's community through the power of the arts. The theme of this year's Northborough CultureFest will be "Art and Wellness" in response to the coronavirus pandemic challenges. The event will feature stage performances, outdoor visual art exhibitions, and activities focused on all aspects of diversity, art & wellness.

CultureFest will bring the community together in joyful celebration, healing, and appreciation for the ties that keep us connected and strong. The festival features musicians, dancers, visual artists and food of a culturally diverse nature from Northborough and the surrounding towns.

CultureFest also includes an art event with community participation entitled ‘Flags of Hope’. Throughout history and in many various cultures, flags have been used to express feelings, to mark important occasions and to carry meaning. Participants at CultureFest will be provided with fabric paint, markers and stamps to paint individual canvas flags and cover them with words, symbols and color in a personal message of hope for healing in their personal lives, in the community and the world. The flags will be strung on ropes and hung around the festival. These flags will carry our wishes of healing and well being, will bring joy through their color and diversity, and will tell a story of the community’s compassionate togetherness, strength and resilience as we emerge together from this pandemic.

Experience blue grass music, Grateful Dead music, Chinese and Greek dancing repertoires, Thai food, Italian food and more. This free and family friendly event will be held on June 18 from 11am-3pm at the Town Common.

Marlborough Public Schools Selects Next Superintendent

MARLBOROUGH: Marlborough’s School Committee has named Mary Murphy as the district’s next superintendent. Murphy is currently serving as Marlborough’s Assistant Superintendent and will transition to the role of Superintendent beginning July 1, 2022 pending contract negotiation.

School Committee member Katherine Hennessey stated, “If I'm making a decision about what I want for the kids of Marlborough, and for the improvement for our students, I can tell you that Mary Murphy is going to be committed and dedicated to every single student…And I will then extend that to every single staff member.”

The search for Marlborough’s next superintendent began with 23 applications leading to 4 finalists. School Committee Member Denise Ryan chaired the Superintendent Search Sub-Committee and Mayor Arthur Vigeant began the voting process by reaffirming the committee’s nominees and stating, “I think what was put forward by the committee gave us four candidates that all could be a superintendent."

Ryan also strongly supported Mary’s move to the role of superintendent by stating, “She knows this district inside and out. She IS Marlborough, and I think she would do anything to see this district succeed. She's shown her dedication. And I think that she has the capabilities to lead this district and keep the momentum going.”

Mary Murphy was a critical leader on a team that returned students to full-time, in-person learning in August 2020 for grades PreK-Grade 2, English Learners and Special Education while other students returned in the hybrid-model during the pandemic. At the same time, she was equally committed to staff learning and supported them designing professional development as they adjusted to teaching in different learning models and transitioned to full-time, in person learning. She will continue to lead the district forward in closing the achievement gap.

Says Murphy, “I am honored that the School Committee has appointed me to the position of Superintendent of Schools. We all know there is a lot of work to be done as we continue to complete the goals and actions embedded in the Strategies for Improvement. I look forward to leading the team whose main goal will be to provide all of our students academically rigorous and engaging content in supportive and inclusive environments.”

Give Your Stuff Away Day - May 21

BERLIN: Sawyer Hill EcoVillage will celebrate Give Your Stuff Away Day (an international environmental holiday) on Saturday, May 21. Residents will give away toys, clothes, books, media, computer gear, sports equipment, housewares, furniture, and much more - just as in a
multi-family yard sale, but all free. Giveaway hours will be 9am to 1pm.

Residents will lay out giveaway items in several designated areas outdoors; other possessions are off-limits. If it rains lightly or rain is threatening, giveaway items may be consolidated at certain spots under outdoor canopies or a porch roof. (If heavy rain or severe thunderstorms are expected, a rain date will be posted on the webpage at http://mosaic-commons.org/gysa-2022 .)

Service animals are welcome, but pets must be left at home.

Because the event is often crowded and local COVID rates are rising, pandemic restrictions remain in place to keep both visitors and residents safe:

Close-fitting FACE MASKS ARE REQUIRED (except for children under 2) and must cover the mouth and nose. If extra disposables are available, they will be offered, but unmasked visitors will be asked to leave.
Visitors will be asked to maintain some distance from others not in their group.
Hand sanitizer stations will be available.

To find out how to reach Sawyer Hill EcoVillage, see www.sawyerhill.org/directions.

Symphony Pro Musica Hosts Spring Concerts

HUDSON & SOUTHBOROUGH: Symphony Pro Musica, conducted by Mark Churchill (pictured), presents its final performances of its 2021/22 season on Saturday, May 14 at 7:30pm at the Hudson High School, and on Sunday, May 15 at 3:30 pm at the Putnam Family Arts Center at St. Mark’s School, Southborough. The program is titled “Joyous Celebrations!” and features the twin daughters of Mark and Marylou Churchill, Emma and Julia.

The program opens with the Academic Festival Overture by Johannes Brahms. The Overture captures the excitement and expectation of the graduation season with infectiously exuberant music, four popular drinking songs of the time in fact! The major work is Beethoven's Symphony No.1, built on the achievements of Haydn and Mozart. It’s a work of youthful passion and charm, but with plenty of the composer’s own voice and the clear promise of the great things to come.

Emma and Julia will have just completed their professional music studies and have chosen two stunning, shorter works to perform. A staple of the violin repertoire, Ernest Chausson’s poignant Poeme for Violin and Orchestra is his most-loved composition, and Darius Milhaud’s Cello Concerto No.1 is a raucous piece drawing from jazz and Brazilian musical influences whose last movement is titled “Joyeux!” Mark Churchill adds, “This will be the second time Emma and Julia have performed with the orchestra—they were 11 years old for their SPM debut!”
Emma and Julia are receiving master’s degrees from the Shepherd School of Music at Rice University. For undergraduate studies Julia attended the Eastman School of Music and Emma the Oberlin Conservatory. Daughters of Boston Symphony principal second violinist Marylou Speaker Churchill and SPM conductor and cellist Mark Churchill, they grew up in a musical household and started music lessons at age 3 and a half, studying strings, piano, composition and music theory, and participating in numerous orchestras, chamber ensembles and summer programs. Notable among these were 14 years at the New England Conservatory Preparatory School, 9 summers at Greenwood Music Camp, and 4 years as members of the Boston Philharmonic Youth Orchestra. They appeared as soloists with SPM in a performance of Vivaldi’s Double Concerto for violin and cello when they were 11 years old.

SPM continues its long tradition of performing at Hudson High School, which began at the orchestra’s founding 39 years ago. The orchestra returns to St. Mark’s School, where SPM last played in February 2020. Churchill adds “It’s wonderful to return to the Putnam Family Arts Center. It’s a beautiful space designed with superb acoustics in mind.”

Students are always able to attend SPM concerts at no charge. Adult tickets are $25, senior tickets are $20, and group rates are available. First-time SPM concertgoers may also attend free of charge. Tickets to the performances may be found on Eventbrite (www.symphonypromusica.eventbrite.com), or online at www.symphonypromusica.org. For information, call 978-562-0939 or email spmoffice@symphonypromusica.org.

Native Plant Trust Announces 7th Annual Trillium Week, May 9-15, 2022; Registration for Twilight Trilliums After-Hours Event Open Now

FRAMINGHAM: Native Plant Trust, the nation’s first plant conservation organization and the only one solely focused on New England’s native plants, will celebrate its seventh annual Trillium Week at Garden in the Woods May 9-15.

“There are few wildflowers as charismatic as trillium. Instantly recognizable and widely cherished by gardeners and wildflower enthusiasts alike, they are a wonderful part of spring flora,” notes Uli Lorimer, Director of Horticulture at Native Plant Trust. “And, like so many things in nature, you must have patience to enjoy trillium, as they grow slowly. From seed it may take five to seven years before the first bloom; clumps with six blossoms may be 50 years old or more. Our collection of trillium at Garden in the Woods became a Nationally Accredited Collection in 2013 through American Public Gardens Association because of the breadth of taxa and the quality of our specimens. It is an honor to be recognized for this collection. Please join us during Trillium Week, when these plants take center stage.”

Trilliums are uniquely beautiful, with three leaves, three petals, and colors ranging from a deep scarlet to snow white. Relatively easy to cultivate, trilliums do require patience and a steady hand as they are slow growers that build strength and reserves year after year.

Program highlights during Trillium Week include guided tours of the Trillium collection (May 11, 13, 14 and 15) and special workshops (May 10 and 12) with expert advice on how to select trilliums, prepare a site for planting and how to care for them once they are in the ground. A self-guided audio tour of the trillium collection at Garden in the Woods is available on the Native Plant Trust website for download at: www.NativePlantTrust.org.

Twilight Trilliums is the signature event celebrating trilliums and provides an opportunity to stroll the gardens after hours while enjoying beverages and light refreshments from Decanted Wine Trucks, a local, women-owned business and live music by Carlos Odria, a guitarist, music researcher and university professor living in Massachusetts. “Carlos Odria is a breathtakingly talented musician, fusing elements of Latin American folk music, Spanish flamenco, jazz and Afro-Peruvian rhythm in a fascinating melange. …it’s impossible not to be struck by the lush sound, the immense technical skill and sheer beauty he creates…” (Worcester Telegram, April 2022). Tickets $30 members, $36 nonmembers. For more information and to register for Twilight Trilliums, visit: www.NativePlantTrust.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!

The Action is also your one stop shop for graphic design, copying services, website design, business card printing, scanning & shredding services.

100 Domino Drive
Concord, MA 01742

Phone: (978) 371-2442

Monday - Wednesday: 7:30am - 5:00pm
Thursday: 7:30am - 3:00pm
Friday - Sunday: Closed

Wanted: New Members for Hundredth Town Chorus

Berlin Girl Scout Completes Gold Award Project

River Clean-up Volunteers Needed!

Fresh Start Furniture Bank Seeks Donated Items and Volunteers

Learn About Mushrooms in Westborough

Play Indoor Badminton

Sudbury Villagers kicks off its 50th year!

Fairy Houses at New England Botanic Garden Set to Capture Nature’s Magic: Enchanted Forest Opens September 10

Sudbury Announces Survey to Learn Community's Thoughts on Next Town Manager

Beth Tikvah Synagogue Open House

St. Stephen to Welcome Pastor Mileski

MetroWest Conference for Women Names Derith Cass & Sedruola Maruska Keynote Speakers for Upcoming Event

The Northborough Free Summer Concerts Continue!

Massachusetts Breast Cancer Coalition's Annual State-wide Against the Tide Multisport Virtual & In-person Events

Sudbury Housing Trust Offers Available Funding

Northboro-Southboro Girls Softball - Fall Season Registration

FINANCIAL FOCUS: Market decline offers buying opportunities

Northboro-Southboro Girls Softball - Fall Season Registration

FINANCIAL FOCUS: Strengthen Your ‘Three-legged Stool’ for Retirement

Garden Party & Summer Auction 2022

Marlborough Rotary Club Installs New Leadership Team

Community Greening Initiative Blooms on Franklin Street: New England Botanic Garden and WooServes Student Volunteers Beautify Downtown Worcester

Become a Weed Warrior!

Sign up Now for Summer Service Week

Shabbats on the Beach & Open Houses

WCLT Scholarships 2022 Awarded

Northborough Free Summer Concerts Begin This Weekend!

Pastor Graumann to Leave St. Stephen Lutheran Church

Free Guided Tours of Sudbury's Historic Meetinghouse

Shir Joy Chorus Presents “Songs of Prayer & Wonder”A Virtual Concert

The Wayside Inn Foundation to Host Reading Frederick Douglass Together June 25th

Live Music, Beer Garden & Sunsets: New England Botanic Garden at Tower Hill kicks off “Thursday Summer Evenings at the Garden”

Sudbury Housing Trust Offers Mortgage Relief Program

$300,000 Secured in Senate FY23 Budget to support new Marlborough LibraryState funds will provide furniture, technology and equipment to library

Senator Eldridge Announces High Quality Summer Learning Grants to the Harvard and Sudbury Public SchoolsPublic Schools in Sudbury and Harvard will receive funding for comprehensive summer learning opportunities

Several Sudbury Town Offices Following Summer Schedule

Nourse Farm in Westborough Celebrates 300 years in Agriculture

Minuteman High School's Students of the Term Announced for Term 3

Marlborough Rotary Club Celebrates Centennial in Grand Style with Dinner, Awards & Announcement of a Joint Project with City

Sudbury Plans Memorial Day Events

Boys & Girls Clubs of Metrowest Honor Inductees Into Hall of Fame

Northborough Cultural Council’s 4th Annual CultureFest of Music & Arts

Marlborough Public Schools Selects Next Superintendent

Give Your Stuff Away Day - May 21

Symphony Pro Musica Hosts Spring Concerts

Native Plant Trust Announces 7th Annual Trillium Week, May 9-15, 2022; Registration for Twilight Trilliums After-Hours Event Open Now

MetroWest Conference for Women

Names Derith Cass & Sedruola Maruska Keynote Speakers for Upcoming Event

Shir Joy Chorus Presents “Songs of Prayer & Wonder”
A Virtual Concert

$300,000 Secured in Senate FY23 Budget to support new Marlborough Library
State funds will provide furniture, technology and equipment to library

Senator Eldridge Announces High Quality Summer Learning Grants to the Harvard and Sudbury Public Schools
Public Schools in Sudbury and Harvard will receive funding for comprehensive summer learning opportunities