Northborough, MA — Assabet Valley Mastersingers (AVM) announces the search for a dynamic,
collaborative Artistic Director (part-time, contractor) to begin in the Summer of 2027. This position offers the opportunity to lead a respected ensemble dedicated to artistic excellence, ambitious programming, and meaningful community engagement. Reporting to the Executive Board and working closely with the General Manager, the Artistic Director will realize and shape the organization’s artistic vision as well as provide comprehensive leadership to the chorus, soloists, and orchestra. Equally important are strong musicianship, thoughtful and audience-engaging programming, and the capacity to inspire a volunteer ensemble through clear, respectful, and motivating communication.

Founded in 1978, Assabet Valley Mastersingers (AVM) has grown into a respected Metro West/Central Massachusetts regional chorus known for performance excellence, innovative programming, and a deep commitment to community through song. Reflecting on his years with the organization, Dr. Robert P. Eaton, the retiring Artistic Director, expressed profound gratitude for the dedication, passion, and commitment of the hundreds of singers, patrons, and supporters who have helped shape the AVM community, noting that the organization has “succeeded beyond my wildest dreams.”

The position of Artistic Director requires a collaborative professional who works effectively within
nonprofit governance structure, and who contributes to planning, fundraising, and outreach efforts. Candidates are sought who bring integrity, curiosity, and a deep appreciation for the community choral tradition, along with the commitment to artistic growth and organizational partnership, to the table. The ideal candidate would be a master of choral conducting and rehearsal technique and demonstrate significant experience leading large-scale choral-orchestral repertoire, while having the long-term ability to cultivate refined ensemble sound, musicality, and stylistic authenticity across a wide range of periods and genres. Compensation is commensurate with training, experience, and achievement.

For more information, visit https://www.avmsingers.org

 

WASHINGTON — Last year, U.S. Postal Service employees suffered more than 5,200 dog attacks. To combat this, USPS is sharing vital safety guidance to help pet owners protect mail carriers and ensure uninterrupted mail delivery. A monthlong Dog Bite Awareness campaign begins today, with the theme of “Don’t turn your back on dog bite prevention.”

“Every single day, our postal employees serve their communities across dynamic, fast-changing environments,” said Leeann Theriault, employee safety and health awareness manager. “Preventing dog-related incidents requires constant, shared vigilance. This campaign reinforces a vital truth: Animal behaviors can change in an instant, but proactive awareness from both our carriers and the customers we serve can stop painful injuries before they ever happen."

Keep Mail Delivery Safe: Tips for Dog Owners
Even the most predictable pets can act unpredictably when defending territory or feeling startled. Because dogs rely on protective instincts, owners must manage their dogs during delivery times to prevent accidents. Keep your dog in a separate closed room before opening the front door. If you step outside, ensure the door is firmly latched. Always use a leash if your dog is outdoors during mail delivery. Finally, never accept mail directly from a carrier in the presence of your dog, and teach children to avoid doing so, as dogs can misinterpret the interaction as a threat.

The Financial and Emotional Damage of a Dog Attack
Protecting your carrier protects your wallet. If your dog attacks a postal worker, you could owe thousands of dollars out of pocket to cover their medical care, lost shifts, replacement clothing and emotional distress.

“I was walking my route when a dog jumped the fence and lunged at me,” said San Antonio Letter Carrier Fiona Hudson. “I used my dog repellent and mail bag to defend myself, but it was too late. I was rushed to the hospital bleeding, with a broken bone, a severe arm sprain and was barely able to move. While my physical wounds have healed, the trauma of that vicious attack stays with me. Customers must take responsibility and secure their dogs during delivery hours.”

Take Action: Unsecured Dogs Stop Mail Delivery
When a carrier feels unsafe because of a roaming dog, mail service can be temporarily suspended. Until the carrier feels safe enough to restart delivery, the mail will have to be picked up at the dog owner’s local Post Office.

If a carrier feels a house or neighborhood is unsafe to deliver to and there is no way to inform residents their mail service has been suspended, the residents will have to contact the supervisor at their local Post Office for more information. The residents would also have to pick up their mail at the Post Office until it is safe to resume delivery. If a dangerous dog issue is not resolved, owners can be required to rent a Post Office Box to receive mail.

Armed with Awareness: How Carriers Prevent Dog Bites
Postal carriers undergo extensive safety training to spot potential canine hazards. Carriers are instructed to remain vigilant and exercise the precautions below:
 

• Announce entry. Rattle a fence gate or make a non-threatening sound before walking into a yard. Maintain visual contact. Never startle an animal and always keep eyes locked on the dog. Assume dog poses risk. Avoid petting or feeding any animal on the assumption that every dog has the potential to bite. Block exits. Secure outward-swinging doors with a foot to prevent a pet from escaping.

If a dog attacks, carriers are trained to stand their ground, use their mail satchel as a protective shield and deploy dog repellent if necessary. To stay ahead of these risks, USPS also provides carriers with awareness tools, including handheld scanners that feature built-in dog warning alerts and physical warning cards that are placed into mail sorting cases to alert a carrier of a dog at a certain address.

EDGEFIELD, S.C. — The Massachusetts State Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation supports proposed legislation that will expand hunting opportunities across the Bay State, recently endorsed by Gov. Maura Healey. The proposed legislation would allow hunting on Sundays, expand hunting with crossbows and reduce the setback distances for bowhunting and falconry.
“Wildlife management is most effective when agencies have the flexibility to make adaptive, biologically informed decisions,” said Kaylee Szymanski, NWTF district biologist for New England. “Regulated hunting plays a critical role in maintaining healthy and sustainable wildlife populations, and modernizing these regulations gives wildlife professionals additional tools to manage species using science-based approaches while creating more opportunities for people to participate in conservation through hunting.”
This new legislation will modernize outdated hunting laws and expand access for outdoor recreation. Massachusetts is one of two states left in the country that still enforces a ban on Sunday hunting. Legalizing hunting on Sundays during limited hunting seasons will create equitable access to outdoor recreation and provide MassWildlife with an increased ability to manage healthy wildlife populations.
“Getting in the woods to hunt is dependent on access to the outdoors,” said Jesse Warner, NWTF R3 coordinator for the Northeast. “Whether it's someone with years of experience or none at all, allowing Sunday hunting opportunities increases when a person can get out and experience the life-changing power of the outdoors. This aligns with our efforts through the Forests and Flocks Initiative to increase hunting and shooting sports access, as well as engaging in policy efforts that advocate for hunter’s rights.”
To inform the proposed legislative changes, MassWildlife held five public listening sessions across the state, generating over 11,200 comments. The Massachusetts NWTF State Chapter wrote a letter of support, strongly encouraging the passing of the proposed legislation. The NWTF’s overarching recommendation was to grant MassWildlife regulatory authority to manage Sunday hunting and crossbow use through regulation instead of state legislation. This will allow the agency to apply adaptive, data-driven management and respond efficiently to changing conditions.

About the National Wild Turkey Federation   
Since 1973, the National Wild Turkey Federation has invested over half a billion dollars into wildlife conservation and has positively impacted over 24 million acres of critical wildlife habitat. The NWTF has also invested over $10 million into wild turkey research to guide the management of the wild turkey population and to ensure sustainable populations into perpetuity. The organization continues to deliver its mission by working across boundaries on a landscape scale through its Four Shared Values: clean and abundant water, healthy forests and wildlife habitat, resilient communities, and robust recreational opportunities. With the help of its dedicated members, partners and staff, the NWTF continues its work to provide Healthy Habitats. and Healthy Harvests. for future generations.

 

Who: Worcester Chamber Music Society

What: High Five featuring works by Felix Mendelssohn and Antonín Dvořák. WCMS musicians will play in the air-conditioned, handicapped accessible venue.

When & Where:
Saturday, June 13, 2026 | Brooks Concert Hall, College of the Holy Cross, Worcester 7:30 PM

Program:
Mendelssohn | String Quintet No. 2 in B-flat major, Op. 87
Dvořák | Piano Quintet No. 2 in A major, Op. 81

How: Information and tickets here: https://worcesterchambermusic.org/summer-concert-high-five/  

Are you thinking of separating or going through the divorce process? The Metro-West Boston Divorce Support Group is a confidential peer-support group with no religious affiliation. Men and women from all towns are welcome. Our group has been meeting in Acton for decades. Now we are continuing weekly on Thursday evenings by remote videoconference. For more information, call Doreen 617-957-0838 or contact paulbaker01@verizon.

 

Marlborough MA

Herold Apollon: Associate in Science-Business Administration HIGHEST HONORS, Kathleen Berger: Associates in Arts-Liberal Arts and Sciences-Psychology Concentration, Jessica Gudiel Orellana: Associate in Science-Dental Hygiene HIGH HONORS, Alisha Petrucci: Associate in Science-Business Administration, Yoko Tanaka: Certificate-Paralegal Studies

Sudbury MA

Matthew J. Aufiero: Associate in Science- Medical Laboratory Technician HIGH HONORS,
Dorothy M. Collins: Associate in Science-Nursing

 

Live music, historical programming, and community gatherings coming to Hudson this season
The Armory on the Assabet Announces Summer Events Series in Hudson, MA Featuring Music, History, and Community Programming
HUDSON, MA — The Armory on the Assabet is excited to welcome the community to its summer events series, a dynamic lineup of programming designed to bring people together through music, history, and hands-on cultural experiences. Throughout the summer, the Armory will host events ranging from live performances and community gatherings to historical reenactments and interactive workshops, mostly taking place under the Armory Canopy at 35 Washington Street in Hudson. These programs reflect the Armory’s ongoing commitment to creating accessible, engaging opportunities for residents and visitors to connect, learn, and enjoy shared experiences in a vibrant community setting.
June Events:

• Battle of the Bands
  Friday, June 5 | 4:00 – 6:30 PM
  Under the Armory Canopy, 35 Washington Street, Hudson
  Donations accepted
• Acoustic Luncheon
  Sunday, June 28 | 11:45 AM – 2:00 PM
  Under the Armory Canopy, 35 Washington Street, Hudson
  Tickets available now

The Armory on the Assabet invites the community to take part in a vibrant summer season that highlights local talent, historical storytelling, and meaningful public programming for all ages.
For more information about events, tickets, or participation, please contact The Armory on the Assabet.
About The Armory on the Assabet
The Armory on the Assabet is a leading arts and cultural organization dedicated to enriching the Hudson, and Metrowest communities through diverse artistic expressions and cultural experiences. Serving as a hub for creativity and collaboration, the Armory hosts a wide range of events, performances, and educational programs aimed at fostering community engagement and cultural appreciation. Committed to inspiring and uniting people through the power of the arts, the Armory on the Assabet is steadfast in its mission to be a cornerstone of cultural life in the Hudson area. For more information, please visit ArmoryOnTheAssabet.org.

If so, as a care supporter of your loved one you might feel the need to reach out for some support for yourself.  NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental illness, is dedicated to improving the lives of those with mental illness and their families through support, education classes and advocacy at the state and local levels. Volunteers trained by NAMI now offer support groups and educational programs in communities across Massachusetts and they are free to all. Programs are offered in person and digitally via the Zoom format.

We facilitate a family group at CMSXfsg.com.  Our NAMI group meets once a month, every 2nd Thursday, from 7:15 pm – 8:45 pm on ZOOM and we are looking for new members. Our upcoming meeting is June 11th. Our group is small and allows for a more in-depth benefit to each of us. If you would like to attend or ask questions about the group please text or email above to reach  us. Dee – 978-697-3441 

 

Leominster, MA — Habitat for Humanity North Central Massachusetts is inviting residents throughout the region to turn unwanted vehicles into lasting community impact through the organization's vehicle donation program, Cars for Homes®.
Whether it's a car, truck, boat, motorcycle, RV, ATV, farm equipment, or other vehicle, donations help support Habitat's mission of building and preserving affordable housing opportunities for families and veterans throughout the 30 cities and towns served by the organization.
The process is simple, convenient, and free. Vehicles can be donated regardless of whether they are running, and towing is provided at no cost. Donors may also qualify for a tax deduction.
"We all have items that have outlived their usefulness in our lives," said Diana Sinkus, Community Outreach Coordinator of Habitat for Humanity NCM. "By donating a vehicle through Cars for Homes, community members can transform something they no longer need into affordable housing solutions, critical home repairs, and support for local veterans and families."
The Habitat for Humanity vehicle donation program has earned national recognition for its effectiveness. Forbes Advisor recently named Habitat for Humanity one of the top vehicle donation programs in the United States, citing the program's efficiency and impact.
Funds generated through vehicle donations help support Habitat for Humanity North Central Massachusetts programs including: affordable homeownership opportunities, Critical Home Repair services for seniors, veterans, and low-income homeowners, Veterans Build initiatives, financial education and homeowner readiness programs, and neighborhood revitalization efforts.
In addition to supporting local families, vehicle donations provide environmental benefits. Many donated vehicles are recycled responsibly, helping reduce landfill waste, conserve natural resources, and decrease carbon emissions through steel recycling and parts recovery.
Donating a vehicle is easy: Start the donation process online or call 1-877-277-4344. Provide basic information about the vehicle. Schedule a free pickup. Receive a tax receipt after the vehicle is sold.
Habitat for Humanity North Central Massachusetts accepts: cars, trucks, SUVs, vans, motorcycles, boats, Rvs, ATVs and UTVs, construction & farm equipment, and many other vehicles, running or not. Every vehicle donation helps local families achieve safe, decent, and affordable housing while strengthening communities throughout North Central Massachusetts. To learn more or begin a vehicle donation, call 1-877-277-4344 or visit Habitat's Cars for Homes program.
About Habitat for Humanity North Central Massachusetts
Habitat for Humanity North Central Massachusetts brings people together to build homes, communities, and hope. Through affordable homeownership, critical home repairs, veteran housing initiatives, and community partnerships, Habitat helps families build strength, stability, and self-reliance through shelter.
 

Are you thinking of separating or going through the divorce process? The Metro-West Boston Divorce Support Group is a confidential peer-support group with no religious affiliation. Men and women from all towns are welcome. Our group has been meeting in Acton for decades. Now we are continuing weekly on Thursday evenings by remote videoconference. For more information, call Doreen 617-957-0838 or contact paulbaker01@verizon.

FOOD PRESERVATION WORKSHOP June 6th, 11:30 at the Groton Grange, 80 Champney St., Groton, MA.  Learn to preserve your harvest or CSA Share. All methods, including fermentation. Interested children are welcome. FREE TO ALL.

 

BOSTON — The Alcoholic Beverage Control Commission (ABCC), under the direction of State Treasurer Deborah B. Goldberg, is undertaking an enhanced intervention and enforcement effort. The annual Operation Safe Prom and Graduation initiative is designed to raise awareness of the dangers of underage drinking during high school prom and graduation season, to prevent tragedies.

"As the end of the school year approaches for our high school students across the state, Operation Safe Prom and Graduation helps remind students and parents about the real risks of underage drinking,” said Treasurer Deborah B. Goldberg, who oversees the ABCC. “We hope by raising awareness, we can promote responsible choices for our state’s young people."

The initiative’s enforcement efforts focus primarily on suburban communities that are at risk of high rates of underage drinking. The program focuses on prevention, with investigators often calling the underage person’s parents when violations occur. ABCC officials say that most parents are unaware that their children are involved in the use of alcohol, and that intervention is a powerful tool toward family involvement in addressing the problem of underage drinking.

“Our goal with Operation Safe Prom and Graduation is to keep alcoholic beverages out of the hands of Massachusetts high school students to protect them and others in the community, while at the same time drawing attention to the dangers of underage drinking” said Jean Lorizio, Chair of the ABCC.  “We hope to spread awareness of the dangers of underage drinking, and the devastating consequences drinking alcohol could have for underage people and their loved ones.”

Massachusetts IMPACT impaired driving data shows that 10% of all traffic fatalities involve drivers under the age of 21. Massachusetts is among the top ten states for binge drinking, with more than 1 in 4 (27.75%) adults age 18 or older reporting they binged on alcohol in 2020. Among young people ages 12 to 20, 20.77% reported alcohol use in the past month and 11.81% reported binge alcohol use in the past month in Massachusetts. The national averages were 17.32% and 10.14%, respectively. One in three (33.86%) substance abuse treatment admissions among persons aged 12 and older in 2019 in Massachusetts were alcohol related.

 

Weekly Events: Suggested donation $5
Monday A Politics-Free Tea Time 2 - 4pm
Tuesday Armchair Meditation 8 - 8:30am
Wednesday Coffee Hour 9am - 12pm
Wednesday Old Time Music Jam 11am – 1pm (every 2nd and 4th Wednesday)
Wednesday Irish Session 7 - 10pm
*NEW! Thursday Game Night feat. the Crokinole Club 7 - 9pm
Friday Open Art Studio & Coffee Hour 9am - 12pm
Friday Fiber Arts Group 2 - 4pm
Saturday Social 10am - 1pm
Office Hours w Senator Kennedy’s team Every second Wednesday of the month at 11am
*NEW! Office Hours w Rep Kilcoyne's Team Every first Friday of the month at 10am

Saturday, June 6 at 11:30am | Veg Group: Herbs in the Kitchen
An introduction to herbal teas, medicinal herbs, and more presented by Mary Cody! Suggested donation: $5

Saturday, June 6 at 1pm | A Look Back: 50 Years in photography
This event is back by popular demand! You'll see an incredible slideshow of photos taken by Berlin's very own Marty Miller who has been a professional photographer for 50 years. Cost: Free!

Sunday, June 7 at 5pm | A Luminous Sound Bath Journey
As the world grows radiant with late-spring light, you are invited into a heart-centered immersion designed to awaken warmth, compassion, and inner brilliance. Led by Gina Cranford. Cost: $30 Register at 19Carter.org

Friday, June 12 at 7pm | Open Mic
Join our supportive and inclusive open mic! Hosts Lori Diamond & Fred Abatelli will support with professional sound, a welcoming vibe, and a piano. Performers must sign up in advance by emailing LoriDiamondMusic@gmail.com. Sign up window opens 6pm the Wednesday before the event. Suggested donation: $5   

Saturday, June 13 at 1:30pm | How American Music Started
Join us for a presentation by Matt McConeghy as he shares a history of some notable New England neighbors who were Heroes of American Music. Suggested donation: $5

Sunday, June 14 at 6pm - 8:30pm | Jazz Jam
Improvise in a fun, welcoming atmosphere. Players & listeners welcome. Email Ken at ken@parrishworks.net with questions. Suggested donation: $5

 

• Summer Fun Inclusive Evenings – June 27, July 18, August 15
• Autism-Friendly Evening – October 10
• Evening for Deaf, Blind, or DeafBlind – December 12
• Sensory-Friendly Halloween – October 30 (this event is a Friday, not a Saturday)
• Inclusive Evening for Visitors 18+ – September 19

 

On Monday, June 1, at 10:30 a.m., state wildlife biologists will visit UMass Lowell to assess the health of five peregrine falcon chicks and fit them with ID bands before the birds fledge their nest atop the university’s Fox Hall, the city’s tallest building.
Also known as “duck hawks,” the birds are UMass Lowell’s real-life River Hawks – the namesake of the university’s athletic teams. Over the past 18 years, 49 peregrine chicks have been raised atop of Fox Hall. Birds hatched at UMass Lowell have grown and flown on to establish other nests across the Bay State and in New Hampshire, Rhode Island and New Jersey.

A pair of the majestic peregrines has called Fox Hall home since at least 2007 when they were discovered on the building’s roof by UMass Lowell employees. Working with wildlife biologists, the university then constructed the nest box to provide the birds with shelter from the elements – peregrines typically lay their eggs out in the open – helping the falcons to thrive for future generations.

The birds are monitored via webcam at www.uml.edu/falcons, which allows the public to follow them. Schoolteachers often use the birds’ story to help educate children about wildlife.

Wildlife biologists annually visit UMass Lowell as part of the university’s effort to help restore the local peregrine population. Previously an endangered species, the federally protected falcons are listed in Massachusetts as birds “of special concern.” Today, more than 44 nesting pairs have been identified in Massachusetts, according to state biologists.

 

BOSTON —The U.S. Postal Service released its new Global Forever stamps today at the 2026 Boston World Exposition as part of the stamp show’s letter-writing theme day.

The stamps honor Postcrossing, which is a global project that enables participants to send and receive postcards from interested people around the world.

Since 2005, the Postcrossing website has inspired more than 800,000 people in more than 200 countries and territories to send more than 85 million postcards to eager recipients around the world. These four triangular stamps highlight the fun of receiving real, personalized mail, and also celebrate the role of Postcrossing in promoting greater understanding across countries and cultures.

“Postcrossing began with a simple idea: Receiving a postcard in the mail could brighten someone’s day. From that one great idea grew a worldwide community built around kindness, curiosity and human connection. But what makes Postcrossing remarkable is not simply the number of postcards exchanged. It’s what those postcards represent. Each one reflects time, effort and intention,” said Sheila Holman, the Postal Service’s vice president of marketing, who dedicated the stamps.

“I think these Postcrossing stamps are arriving at an especially important moment. While technology has transformed the ways in which people communicate, the desire for authentic connection hasn’t changed. There’s still a very human desire to reach out to one another to share experiences and to learn about people and places that are outside of our own personal worlds,” she said.

As Global stamps, the Postcrossing stamps may be used to send a postcard from the United States to any country to which First-Class Mail International service is available.

In addition to adding a fun touch to any postcard, these stamps are also an eye-catching way to spread the word about Postcrossing by using them on international letters. These stamps will have a postage value equivalent to the price of the single-piece First-Class Mail International 1-ounce machinable letter rate in effect at the time of use.

In short, these stamps are similar to Forever stamps, but for use on international letters and cards.

 

The Friends of the Hudson Public Library are hosting their 4th annual YART and Yard Sale on Saturday, May 30, 2026 from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm (rain date will be Sunday, May 31 from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm). This event is a fundraiser for programs and museum passes for the Hudson Public Library, while providing a shopping experience for the community and supporting our local artists and crafters.

Artists and craftspeople sell their handmade arts and crafts in their yard or driveway. Townspeople sell their secondhand goods in their driveway or yard. You can download a map to easily locate the sale locations at huds.pl, or pick up a map from the Hudson Public Library prior to the sale. 

With local gas prices climbing toward $4.50 a gallon, the financial case for making the switch to an electric vehicle has never been stronger. Charging an EV at home on Eversource East costs the equivalent of just $2.80 per gallon – saving drivers roughly 38% per mile. And the savings don't stop at the pump. Because EVs eliminate oil changes, spark plugs, and complex exhaust systems, they cost 30–50% less to maintain over their lifespan than gas-powered cars. All told, drivers can expect around $4,000 in total cost-of-ownership savings over the first five years.
Whether you're looking to purchase or lease, now is a great time to lock in immediate, predictable savings. Register for our online webinar on June 17, 2026, 7–8pm: www.bit.ly/EV-101 – hear directly from EV drivers, get your questions answered, and take the next step toward going electric.

(Acton, MA) Habitat for Humanity North Central Massachusetts is looking for families in need of simple, decent and affordable homes currently under construction in Acton for occupancy in 2027. Habitat homes are not given away but sold at cost with a no-interest or low-interest mortgage. Homeowners work alongside Habitat volunteers and staff to help build the home.

Interested applicants must:
• currently live in substandard or inadequate housing,
• have a steady source of income,
• earn Between 30% & 60% of the median income for the area (ex. families of four with income less than approximately $49,620-$99,240 per year)
• be willing to help build their home and others.

This will be affordable homes compatible with the character of the town. Two units will be one bedroom, one bathroom and approximately 700 sq. ft. These units will be on the 1st story. The second unit will be 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom home on the 2nd floor and approximately 1100 sq. ft.

The units will meet the stretch energy code through increased external and internal insulation, Energy Star appliances and windows, and increased sealing. These homes will be financed through Habitat for Humanity with 20-30 year, no- or low-interest mortgages. The final price for the two-bedroom home will be approximately $247,000. The final price for each one-bedroom home will be approximately $207,000.

Less than perfect credit or lack of savings may not prevent qualification for a Habitat mortgage. Applications will be available June 4th and can be obtained at the Habitat ReStore in Leominster, at the Habitat office in Leominster and Acton or by request to hunter@ncmhabitat.org. Applications will be
accepted through August 4th, 2026

Contact Hunter Hatfield at 978-348-2749, Option 4, or email hunter@ncmhabitat.org for more information.

Habitat for Humanity North Central Massachusetts offers a hand up, not a handout, to hard-working, low-income families seeking affordable home ownership. Habitat NCM builds and repairs simple, decent houses with people in need, serving 30 towns and cities in North Central Massachusetts. Habitat also operates the ReStore in Leominster which raises funds through sales of discounted and recycled materials and furniture.

Are you thinking of separating or going through the divorce process? The Metro-West Boston Divorce Support Group is a confidential peer-support group with no religious affiliation. Men and women from all towns are welcome. Our group has been meeting in Acton in the evening for decades. Now we are continuing weekly by remote videoconference, and our meetings are on Monday, subject to change to Thursday . For more information, call Doreen 617-957-0838 or contact paulbaker01@verizon.net

After nearly five decades of artistic leadership, AVM will honor Dr. Robert P.Eaton’s final season while preparing for its landmark 50th year.

NORTHBOROUGH, Mass. — Assabet Valley Mastersingers (AVM) today announced that Artistic Director Dr. Robert P. Eaton has informed the Executive Board of his intention to retire at the conclusion of the 2026–2027 concert season, a year that will mark 49 years of choral excellence for the organization.

Founded in 1978, AVM has grown into a respected regional chorus known for performance excellence, innovative programming, and a deep commitment to community through song. Reflecting on his years with the organization, Dr. Eaton expressed profound gratitude for the dedication, passion, and commitment of the hundreds of singers, patrons, and supporters who have helped shape the AVM community, noting that the organization has “succeeded beyond my wildest dreams.”

As AVM prepares for this important transition, the Executive Board has formed a Search Committee to identify the organization’s next Artistic Director. The committee will lead the process of selecting a visionary artistic leader to guide AVM into its landmark 50th season and beyond.

The 2026–2027 season will embrace themes of optimism, hope, and light, offering audiences and singers alike an opportunity to celebrate both Dr. Eaton’s extraordinary legacy and the enduring power of music to enrich lives, strengthen community, and inspire future generations. AVM invites patrons, supporters, alumni, and the broader community to join in celebrating Dr. Eaton’s final season and in looking ahead to a vibrant new chapter in the organization’s history.

The First United Methodist Church of Hudson will be offering its FREE Pasta Friendship Dinner on Saturday, May 23rd, to be served at 5:00 pm.  This is one of our most asked for meals and everyone loves the spaghetti, meatballs and sausage served with salad, drinks and desserts!
Invite family, friends and neighbors for an evening of great tasting food, laughter and fellowship.
Friendship Dinners are served the fourth Saturday of every month and are free and open to everyone.

First United Methodist Church is located over the hill, off the Hudson Rotary, at 34 Felton Street.
More information is available at 978-562-2932 or at our website https://hudsonfumc.org/.

 

Summer passes are still available for 19 Carter’s 6th Annual Outdoor Summer Concert Series running Saturdays, 7pm – 9pm, from June 20th to August 15th (excluding July 4th) at 19 Carter Street, Berlin, MA.

Purchase a summer pass at 19Carter.org to gain access to all 8 concerts for $175. Individual tickets are also available: $25 in advance/$30 at the door, $5 for students and FREE for kids! Visit 19Carter.org.

Kicking off the series on June 20th, Southern Rail will excite the audience with stunning bluegrass harmonies and sparkling banjo, guitar and mandolin. On June 27th, Swing 440 will bring the tradition of Gypsy jazz to life with tunes that are sure to get audiences dancing!

Crocodile River Music will perform on July 11th bringing folks from Burkina Faso, Mali, Senegal, Guinea, and the United States together to present African art, music, and culture for an evening of movement and joy!

On July 18th, Moe Dixon will be joined by Seth Asser and Gary Brown for an evening of inspiring original songs and inventive ukulele playing. Hailing from all corners of New England, the Nolan Slate Sextet will keep it real on July 25th with arrangements of your favorite jazz artists from the bebop tradition.

Mark Russell & Friends will perform covers of Sting, Stevie Wonder, and other favorites on August 1st and the Rioflow Trio, an instrumental trio led by the incredible Carlos Odria, will perform Latin American grooves on August 8th.

Lastly, Northborough-based Lori Diamond and Fred Abatelli with special guest Anelise will share contemporary “music that seeps into the soul” on August 15th.

Are you thinking of separating or going through the divorce process? The Metro-West Boston Divorce Support Group is a confidential peer-support group with no religious affiliation. Men and women from all towns are welcome. Our group has been meeting in Acton in the evening for decades. Now we are continuing weekly by remote videoconference, and our meeting has recently changed to Monday . For more information, call Doreen 617-957-0838 or contact paulbaker01@verizon.net

In honor of its 85th anniversary, Camp Middlesex in Ashby, MA will hold a celebration on Saturday, May 30, 2026 at 1031 Erickson Road, Ashby.

Since 1941, Camp Middlesex has offered a traditional camping experience where laughter, singing, and camp cheers are the priceless sounds of happy youth on a summer night.

A range of program offerings that include archery, crafts, theater, outdoor living skills, low ropes, cooking lessons, rocketry, woodworking, sports, horseback riding and much more, give campers the opportunity to have fun and gain new skills.

Outings on the weekends, Wednesday night Band Concert, Thursday night dances, bonfires, and different themes for every week, all add to the camping experience.

To commemorate the 85th anniversary, a celebration will be held on camp grounds from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.  Activities will include crafts, live music, lawn games, tours, lunch, and time with friends!   Pre-registration is required by May 23, 2026, and found on-line at
https://www.campmiddlesex.com/events/85th-celebration/

For interested campers, an Open House is scheduled for Sunday, May 31,2026, from 12:00 – 3:00 PM.

The month of May brings change. Outside, the weather is warming up. Inside, students are nearing the end of the school year, and adults are looking forward to summer trips on the horizon. These changes bring a list of things to do, from spring cleaning to packing for trips or summer camps. One thing that should not be left off that list is taking care of your mental health.
May is Mental Health Awareness Month. Mental health is important to take care of throughout the year. However, it’s easy to forget sometimes. This month serves as a reminder to not only take care of your own mental health, but to also check in with others. It’s hard to know what someone else may be going through if you don’t ask.
Mental health is a term that covers a broad range of things. One of the goals of this awareness month is to decrease the stigma surrounding mental illnesses. A great way to do this is by educating yourself about mental illness and related topics. Most of the stigma comes from a lack of knowledge leading to an overwhelming belief in the myths surrounding them. By learning what’s true versus what’s false, we can help decrease the stigma.
Another facet of mental health that faces a lot of myths is suicide. It’s a topic that more people need to be educated on as well. It’s not unpredictable or unpreventable. Oftentimes, those considering suicide give some sign of their intention, either verbally or behaviorally. Asking someone you think could be considering suicide if they are, does not put the idea in their head. Learning those warning signs and speaking up when you think someone may be considering suicide could save a life.
Mental health is too large of a topic for us to ignore. Becoming educated about it is an important first step. For a list of warning signs for suicide as well as risk factors, visit The Jason Foundation’s website at www.jasonfoundation.com. The Jason Foundation is a nonprofit dedicated to the awareness and prevention of youth and young adult suicide. On their website, you can also find training modules, materials, and locate your closest Jason Foundation Affiliate Office, all at no cost to you. Don’t let a lack of knowledge stand in the way of helping someone.

Mallory Wire
Division Director
The Jason Foundation, Inc.

State Treasurer Deborah B. Goldberg will return the Bronze Star Medal of Staff Sgt. Walter Frye Sr. to his son, Walter Frye Jr., an MBTA employee, during a special ceremony recognizing the veteran’s distinguished military service. Frye enlisted in the U.S. Army at age 20 and served during World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. He served with the 999th Armored Field Artillery Battalion and was awarded the Bronze Star Medal in 1951 for his service during the Korean War. The medal was recovered by the Unclaimed Property Division and traced back to the Frye family as part of the Treasury’s ongoing efforts to reunite military honors with their rightful heirs.

FOOD PRESERVATION WORKSHOP June 6th, 11:30 at the Groton Grange, 80 Champney St., Groton, MA.  Learn to preserve your harvest or CSA Share. All methods, including fermentation. Interested children are welcome. FREE TO ALL.

BOSTON – This Mailbox Improvement Week (May 18-24, 2026), the United States Postal Service (USPS) is reminding Americans everywhere to inspect, maintain, and make any needed upgrades to their mailboxes to help keep the mail flowing. Through regular, simple mailbox maintenance akin to Spring Cleaning, customers can help their carriers ensure mail, packages, and special deliveries arrive on time, safely, and securely.

“Your mailbox is the gateway to connection, bringing everything from birthday wishes from loved ones to vital documents to your doorstep,” said Postmaster General David Steiner. “A well-maintained mailbox isn’t just about curb appeal; it’s a partnership in efficiency and precision, helping our carriers continue to deliver for you – every day.”

Each year, USPS designates the third week of May as Mailbox Improvement Week to encourage homeowners with box-on-post-delivery to examine and, where necessary, improve their mailbox appearance and functionality. Regular maintenance not only helps streamline postal operations but enhances the beauty and safety of entire neighborhoods.

Fix up your mailbox in a snap
The yearly initiative calls attention to the wear and tear that occurs, often without customers’ awareness. Some of the most common fixes homeowners may need to make include:
-Tighten Up: Check for and tighten any loose hinges on the door.
-A Fresh Coat: Brighten up a rusty or peeling mailbox with a fresh coat of paint.

• -Stand Securely: Ensure your mailbox post is secure and upright.
• -Be Seen: Make sure your house numbers are clear, visible, and easy to read.

Security is a shared mission
USPS partners with the U.S. Postal Inspection Service to keep postal employees, the mail stream, and the American public safe through education, awareness, laws that protect our nation’s mail network. Here’s how you can help keep your mail safe:
 

• Don't Wait: Collect your mail promptly after delivery to prevent theft.
• Say Something: If you witness mailbox tampering, call the police immediately.
• To Report Mailbox Vandalism: Contact Postal Inspectors at 1-877-876-2455.

LEARN MORE: How to Set Up & Mount a Mailbox at https://www.usps.com/manage/mailboxes.htm

Sawyer Hill EcoVillage observes environmental holiday by reducing, reusing

BERLIN, MA -- Sawyer Hill EcoVillage will celebrate Give Your Stuff Away Day (an international environmental holiday) on Saturday, May 16, 2026.  Residents will give away toys, clothes, books, media, computer gear, sports equipment, housewares, furniture, and much more -- just as in a multifamily yard sale, but all free.  Giveaway hours will be 9 am to 1 pm.

Residents will lay out giveaway items in several designated areas outdoors; other possessions are off-limits. If it rains lightly or rain is threatening, we'll consolidate items in sheltered areas -- under canopies or an open porch roof, or inside one of the neighborhood Common Houses. (If heavy rain or severe thunderstorms are expected, a rain date may be posted on the webpage at http://mosaic-commons.org/gysa-2026 .)

Service animals are welcome, but pets must be left at home. Masking is also welcome (and if the event must be moved indoors, encouraged).

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

Give Your Stuff Away Day began in Rochester, NY, and has expanded gradually to other cities and countries.  This is the ecovillage's sixteenth consecutive year of participation.

Trinity Church, 14 Wattaquadock Hill Rd., Bolton, will be hosting an  indoor yard sale on Saturday, June 6th, 2026 from 9:00AM - Noon.  All items are free. Household goods, toys, books, movies, sporting goods, clothing, more. Enjoy free refreshments as well.  www.trinitybolton.org

The Heritage Chorale has created an inspiring program of music for its 2026 spring concert, with tributes to iconic symbols of America, including Randall Thompson's Testament of Freedom--a setting of passages from the writings of Thomas Jefferson.
We hope you’ll join the Chorale at 4:00 pm on Sunday, May 31 at the Fuller Middle School, 31 Flagg Drive in Framingham as we honor this special anniversary. True to the Chorale’s performance goals, the program is unique and varied, featuring pieces that span more than 200 years of American music. From Chester, the work of the first American choral composer, William Billings (1746–1800), to Take Care of This House by one of the 20th century’s most renowned composers, Leonard Bernstein, and from anthems to cantatas, this May’s concert will be a treat for the listener. The program also includes the world premiere performance of local composer Leonardo Ciampa’s Helen Keller Cantata, a passionate framing of her words. The piece is dramatic and poignant, a not-to-be-missed musical experience. Tickets may be purchased online in advance at www.heritagechorale.org or at the door.

MARLBOROUGH MEN Who Fought IN THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR

Presented by John Gately at the Marlborough Historical Society, 377 Elm Street, Marlborough.

May 26, 2026 at 7:00 P.M.

Available parking across the street.  This event is free and open to the publi

Spring is a time of renewal and new growth, a time for starting over, and planting seeds for the future. It is also the time for the Shower for Safety.

The Sudbury-Wayland-Lincoln Domestic Violence Roundtable cordially invites you to participate in its Annual Shower for Safety. You can help families transitioning to a new home by donating new household items or gift cards. All gifts collected will be donated to clients of area Domestic Violence Agencies.

The Shower for Safety will be held from Friday, May 1, 2026, through Sunday May 17, 2026. New unwrapped gifts may be dropped off at Spirits of Maynard, 4 Digital Way, Suite 3, Maynard, MA or at Sudbury Wine and Spirits, 410 Boston Post Road, Rugged Bear Plaza, Sudbury, MA.

Requested new items include: diapers, twin size comforters, sheets and pillowcases, bed pillows, towels and face cloths, unscented cleaning products and laundry detergent, laundry baskets, kitchen utensils, flatware, dishes, drinking glasses, small kitchen appliances, pots and pans, bakeware, personal care items, and other household items for kitchens, bathrooms, or bedrooms.

Gift cards for the following are also welcome: Target, Walmart, CVS, Walgreen’s, Market Basket, Hannaford, Stop and Shop ($10-$50).
For questions or further information, please contact the Roundtable at infodvrt@gmail.com.

You can help change the lives of families affected by domestic violence. We would appreciate your support.

Shir Joy Chorus Spring concert: May 17, 7 pm at Congregation B'nai Shalom in Westborough. Everyone is welcome, and tickets are available in advance or at the door for $20. For more information, go to https://www.shirjoychorus.com/ .

Our theme this time includes songs from the stage and screen written by Jewish composers. 

The repertoire includes:

• Fiddler on the Roof medley
• Tonight from West Side Story
• Little Shop of Horrors
• I Got Rythym
• Over the Rainbow
• and more!

 

HUDSON, MA May 8, 2026 — The Armory on the Assabet is proud to partner with the Hudson Cultural Alliance, Inc. to present Rock the Arts, a special community arts event taking place on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at the Hudson Elks Lodge in Hudson, Massachusetts.
As part of the Hudson Cultural Alliance Summer Series, Rock the Arts will bring together live music, youth art, and community celebration in one afternoon event. Guests will enjoy a live performance from Disco Lemonade, followed by a showcase featuring artwork created by children and teens from across the region.
The event will also feature food from the Kith & Kin food truck and a full cash bar available on site. Organizers encourage attendees to purchase tickets early, as ticket sales are limited.
“This event is a celebration of creativity and community,” said organizers from The Armory on the Assabet and Hudson Cultural Alliance. “We are proud to create opportunities that spotlight local artistic talent while bringing people together through music and the arts.”
Tickets for Rock the Arts are $20 per person.
Event Details

• Rock the Arts
• Saturday, May 16, 2026
• 1:00 PM
• Hudson Elks Lodge
• 99 Park Street, Hudson, MA 01749

Limited tickets are available. For more information and ticket details, please visit: Rock the Arts | Armory On The Assabet 

 

As part of the Sudbury 250 Day events on Saturday, May 16 the Sudbury Historical Society, in partnership with Freedom's Way National Heritage Area, will present Declaring Independence: Then and Now, an award-winning performance that brings the words and ideas of 1776 to life through readings of the Declaration of Independence and first-person perspectives from living history reenactors.

Narrated by Andrea Roessler of the Sudbury Historical Society, this thought-provoking program, tailored to Sudbury’s own historical records, depicts how residents of communities in Massachusetts debated the idea of declaring independence from Great Britain in 1776 and invites the audience to reflect on what independence meant then and what it means today.

Historical reenactors include Dr. Anthony Howes of Framingham, an authority on the famous How family associated with the Wayside Inn. Howes will represent Ezekiel How, Innkeeper and a Lt. Colonel, who led his militia unit to the battle in Concord on April 19, 1775.  Hartley Johnson of Sudbury, a direct descendant of Walter Haynes, one of Sudbury’s original settlers, will represent the 11 members of the Haynes family who also marched to Concord and fought in the Revolution.

Benjamin Morse of Natick will portray the Reverend Jacob Bigelow, pastor of the Westside Meetinghouse – now First Parish Church/Sudbury Meetinghouse- where he blessed the troops of Captain John Nixon as the men were called to muster in 1775 and where he read the Declaration of Independence to Sudbury’s inhabitants for the very first time on June 10, 1776.

Kathy Lague of Sudbury will represent Mrs. Thankful Berry Nixon, the wife of Captain Nixon who led his company from Nobscot to the battle in Concord and then later at Bunker Hill.  Author Jane Sciacca of Wayland is an authority on Experience Wight Richardson, a Sudbury mother and patriot who feared for her son, Josiah Richardson, Jr. as he went off to fight that fateful day in April of 1775.

Capitalizing on Sudbury's unique zip code of 01776, Sudbury 250 Day will be a day of family friendly events celebrating independence from 10:00 am - 3:00 pm in the historic Town Center.  Enjoy militia reenactments and encampment, fife & drum and colonial music, a Town Crier, tours of historic town center buildings, period dancing, a quilt show, vendor market, food trucks, and the Knox cannon firing, among other events.

The Sudbury History Center and Museum located in the circa 1720 Loring Parsonage, the 1723 Old Burying Ground/Revolutionary Cemetery, the Town Pound, Hearse House and the Hosmer House will be open for tours throughout the day. Attendance is free and no reservations are required.

For the full schedule of events and parking information: http://sudbury.ma.us/250 or sudbury01776.org

The Tom Denney Nature Camp is holding a design contest for our camp T-shirt. Design a nature-themed T-shirt and send in your entry by Tuesday, May 26, 2026 at 5:00pm. Entries will be voted on by the staff, and if yours is chosen then it will be printed on the T-shirts. Here is a link with more information: https://www.tomdenneynaturecamp.org/tee-shirt-design-contest.

 

May 8, 2026   Worcester, MA –  Join Worcester Chamber Music Society (WCMS) for their annual summer concert on June 13, 2026 at Brooks Concert Hall, College of the Holy Cross in Worcester at 7:30 PM.
It might be the beginning of summer, but there’s a midsummer vibe to this concert of quintets, provided by lightness and lyricism that wind through the music. Creativity, color, and conviviality abound, making this a delightful lift into your summer. This evening event will take place at Brooks Concert Hall, which is located at the College of the Holy Cross, and features music by Felix Mendelssohn and Antonín Dvořák.
Though now thought of as a strong work from Mendelssohn’s later life, his String Quintet No. 2 in B-flat major was not published during his lifetime because he did not feel it was worthy enough to be printed. Despite the composer’s seeming personal negativity about the work, he did feel it was a good musical exercise if not his most capable representation of “art.” Still, written during a sabbatical from his Leipzig Conservatory while holidaying in Frankfurt, it was composed during a time – and imbues a sense – of “happy days.”
Czech composer Dvořák is regarded as perhaps the most adaptable composer of his time, frequently employing and amplifying the sounds, rhythms, and styles of his homeland. This second Piano Quintet in A major is representative of his ability to rethink his work; unhappy with the first version, he destroyed the manuscript shortly after its debut, only agreeing to revise the composition fifteen years later after obtaining a friend’s copy of the score. 
Saturday, June 13 @7:30PM
High Five
Brooks Concert Hall
College of the Holy Cross
1 College Street, Worcester
Program
Mendelssohn | String Quintet No. 2 in B-flat major, Op. 87
Dvořák | Piano Quintet No. 2 in A major, Op. 81
Venue is air conditioned and handicapped accessible.
Tickets are available at https://worcesterchambermusic.org/summer-concert-high-five/ or by calling the WCMS office at (508) 926-8624.