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First church marlboro

FIRST CHURCH IN MARLBOROUGH 2026 SPRING RUMMAGE SALE

Women’s Fellowship of First Church in Marlborough, Congregational, UCC will hold its annual Spring Rummage Sale Friday night, April 17, from 5:00 P.M to 8:00 P.M. and Saturday morning, April 18, from 9:00 A.M. to 12:00 noon.
Saturday will be a $5.00 Bag Sale. Fill a paper grocery bag (provided by Women’s Fellowship) and pay just $5.00 for everything in it. There will be clothing for adults and children, shoes, purses, tote bags, kitchenware, bedroom and bathroom linens, home décor, knickknacks, toys, games, puzzles, and miscellaneous items. Stop by and look around. You may find something you sorely need or desperately want.
Have fun shopping for some amazing bargains!!
First Church, 37 High St. (at the corner of Bolton St./Rte. 85 and High St.) above Union Common in downtown Marlborough. Parking is free. There is a small lot on the church property and a municipal lot next to the church.

Skate4Charity 4th Annual Tournament to Benefit the Greater Boston Food Bank

Skate4Charity founded by two friends James Pijewski and Steve Molloy is hosting its 4th annual charity Ice Hockey tournament April 11th at 11am at the The Edge Sports Center in Bedford, 191 Hartwell Rd. Over three years the charity has raised over $137k and last year alone the charity raised over $60k to benefit the Greater Boston Food Bank. This year they have decided to support the Greater Boston Food Bank again, who are the largest hunger-relief organization in New England and among the largest food banks in the country. Last year, they distributed 117 million pounds of nutritious food to people who struggle to have enough to eat in the Eastern Massachusetts area and surrounding communities. Every $1 donated helps to provide 2 healthy meals to neighbors in need.

Event will be held 11am-3pm and there will be food, games, raffles and prizes. Beverages provided by Idle Hands Craft Ales. Watch 4 co-ed teams face off, and help support a great cause, all spectators welcome. Donations are accepted day of and at this link: https://my.gbfb.org/Skate4Charity2026
If you donate after seeing this article please put “action unlimited” in your donation comment.

Shout out to our sponsors for this year's event: Torii Homes, Law Office of Susan E. Zak, Maynard Motors, A&M Roofing, Dynamik Sports and Idle Hands Brewery.
If you would like more information follow us on instagram or Facebook @skate.4.charity
Camera club april 1st 1

Refresh Your Basic Editing Skills
Assabet Valley Camera Club Program

HUDSON: On Wednesday, April 1, the Assabet Valley Camera Club (AVCC) is pleased to host Hazel Meredith, award-winning photographer and sought-after teacher, speaker, and competition judge. She began teaching in 2007 and now does seminars at camera clubs and conferences across the U.S. – both in-person and virtually. Hazel is the recipient of the Ashbrook Award for Digital Imaging Instruction from the Photographic Society of America. Check out her website Meredith Images - Photography | Training | Workshops .
                   
Whether you are a seasoned pro or new to Photoshop, join us to see how Hazel demonstrates simple modifications that will make your images stand out. Easy adjustments for contrast, shadows, highlights, clarity, cropping and more will improve your photos. As an active camera club judge, she often comments on simple fixes that will improve an image’s score. Hazel will demonstrate in Photoshop, but the same techniques apply in almost any editing program.

Currently, AVCC meetings are using a hybrid approach where members can meet either in person or via Zoom. If you are interested in attending the program, contact AVCC at avcc.digital@hotmail.com a few  days prior to the meeting to request a link to the event or to let us know you will be attending in person. Guests are welcome to attend up to two consecutive club meetings prior to becoming a member. For a description of full membership benefits, please go to: https://www.assabetvalleycameraclub.com/Club/MembershipInfo.aspx  The club’s Zoom room opens at 7:00 PM with a brief business meeting at 7:15. Hazel’s presentation  will begin at 7:30.

AVCC in-person meetings are held at the Hudson Senior Center, 29 Church Street, Hudson. The first meeting of the month generally features a program designed to instruct and/or to entertain camera enthusiasts.  During the second monthly meeting, a competition of members’ digital images is judged and critiqued by qualified individuals. Assabet Valley Camera Club, affiliated with both the New England Camera Club Council (NECCC) and the Photographic Society of America (PSA), participates in inter-club competitions on regional, national and international levels.

AVCC welcomes anyone interested in learning more about photography as a visual art and its practical application as a science to become members. Photographers benefit from the club's hands-on experiences, from the knowledge presented in programs, and from having their work critiqued. Check out the AVCC website at https://www.assabetvalleycameraclub.com/

Recognizing and Responding to Teen Dating Violence

 
On Wednesday, April 15th from 7-8:15 PM, the Sudbury-Wayland-Lincoln Domestic Violence Roundtable is hosting Recognizing and Responding to Teen Dating Violence.  While it seems like spotting abuse in a dating relationship should be easy, controlling and manipulative behavior often appears to be kind, loving and even surprisingly vulnerable at first glance.

Designed for parents/guardians, and people in youth facing roles,  this workshop will focus on identifying signs of abuse, and building skills on supporting teens who are experiencing unhealthy or abusive relationships.

This program will be facilitated by Roundtable board member Sydney Carter, Manager of Prevention and Education Programs at REACH Beyond Domestic Violence. Registration for this event is required, and can be completed here.

For more information, please visit www.domesticviolenceroundtable.org or email infodvrt@gmail.com.

Join A Community Conversation About Reducing Domestic Violence in Our Communities

The White Ribbon Group, a subcommittee of the Sudbury-Wayland-Lincoln Domestic Violence Roundtable, is excited to announce its spring community conversation and educational offering. “Speaking Out for Good” is an interactive community education event, focused on engaging MetroWest community members in dialogue around our part in reducing domestic violence and how it impacts us all. The event will take place on Tuesday, March 31st at 7 p.m., in the Goodnow Public Library in Sudbury.
“Speaking Out for Good” will continue to focus on connecting with community members, discussing our roles in addressing domestic violence, masculinity and the threads that bring us together. Attendees will join us for a viewing of “Understanding and Preventing Relationship Violence.” This short video is brought to us in collaboration with the Lauren Dunne Astley Memorial Fund and will provide a shared starting point for the evening’s interactive conversation. Together we will have the opportunity to engage in organized breakout groups, conversation prompts and community dialogue, led by public health and community engagement leaders. Through a series of questions and prompts, the group will dig deep into what draws us to this crucial topic and provide support and insight into how we can better address the community’s needs.
"We are thrilled to be hosting “Speaking Out for Good” and look forward to rich conversation, the opportunity to connect and learn what draws us all to helping reduce domestic violence,” said J Verhoosky, Director of Youth & Family services for the Town of Wayland and White Ribbon Group member. "This event provides a much needed platform for community members to discuss a variety of paths that have brought us together, action steps to reduce violence, and identify a variety of ways to take action within the region.
“We hope you can join us and be a part of this enriching dialogue!”

Key Details:
Date: Tuesday, March 31, 2026 at 7 p.m.
Location: Goodnow Public Library, 21 Concord Road, Sudbury
The White Ribbon Group is a local initiative focused on engaging men and boys in ending violence against women and girls. White Ribbon groups began in Canada in response to the Montreal Massacre, where 14 women were killed by a man. It operates in collaboration with the Sudbury-Wayland-Lincoln Domestic Violence Roundtable. This aligns with the broader international White Ribbon Campaign, which aims to encourage men to speak out against violence against women and girls and promote healthy, positive attitudes and behaviors. The White Ribbon Group works to foster a community environment free from violence by educating and empowering individuals of all genders, challenge gender-based violence and embrace healthy masculinity.
For more information on the Domestic Violence Roundtable, visit www.domesticviolenceroundtable.org. For more information on the White Ribbon Group, email whiteribbon.dvrt@gmail.com.

Marlborough Historical Society March Event

  On March 24 at 6:00 P.M.at the Marlborough Public Library, the Marlborough Historical Society will present “The Declaration of Independence: Pathway to Our Precious Freedoms”   This will be presented by the Honorable Dennis J. Curran (Justice Massachusetts Superior Court (Ret)).

The Declaration of Independence is America’s birth certificate.  This year we celebrate America’s birth 250 years ago.  Its influence has been explosive, galvanizing peoples through out the world to assert their independence, inspiring civil rights movements, and sparking a recognition of individual rights.  Over half of the countries represented at the United Nations have a foundational document they call a declaration of independence.

It has been called the ‘the noblest, happiest page in mankind’s history.’   And its words, “When in the Course of Human Events…” are both eloquent and moving.

Discover 13 facts you never knew about the world changing document, and its missing draft, penned by Thomas Jefferson.

This event is open to the public and free, don’t miss it

19 Carter, Berlin, MA

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
Visit 19Carter.org for tickets, registration + more info!
We frequently add new upcoming events :)

Scholarships Available

The Westborough Community Land Trust (WCLT) is offering two scholarships of $1000 each, to be awarded to the winners of its annual Earth Day Scholarship Essay Contest. Contest opened March 1, and the submission deadline is midnight on April 12, 2026. Open to graduating Westborough High School seniors, and to graduating seniors who reside in Westborough but attend a different high school. To apply, students can get the essay details and application from the Westborough High School guidance office as of March 1 OR online on the Westborough Community Land Trust website (westboroughlandtrust.org/#scholarship).
For questions contact: scholarship@westboroughlandtrust.org.

CONCERT FEATURES THREEPENNY MUSIC

The Nashoba Symphonic Band Chamber Players and Clarinet Choir will present their Spring Concert on Saturday, April 4th at 2 pm in the auditorium of Nashoba Regional High School, Route 117 (Green Road GPS) in Bolton. Admission is FREE.
The program includes music by Gordon Jacob and a setting of Grieg's Holberg Suite, played by the NSB Clarinet Choir. A Clarinet Choir (by the way) includes a full complement of clarinet varieties: Eb Soprano, the well-known Bb, Eb Alto, Bb Bass, and great-big Bb Contra-bass clarinets
The featured work is Kurt Weill's own setting of music from his Threepenny Opera in a chamber music setting. Performed by the NSB Chamber Players, the suite of 'songs' captures the mood of pre-war Berlin. And, yes folks, it includes what you will recognize as “Mack the Knife.”
Nashoba Symphonic Band will continue its season on May 1 with another small ensemble program and on May 3rd with the full Symphonic Band Concert featuring the classic band work, La Fiesta Mexicana.
Nashoba Symphonic Band is a program of The Nashoba Regional High School Friends of Music and is supported in part by grants from Ashby, Berlin, Bolton, Lancaster, and Stow Cultural Councils, local agencies supported by the MA Cultural Council, a state agency.

NASHOBA VALLEY CHORALE CONCERT

Program Highlights:
Nashoba Valley Chorale, in collaboration with the Worcester Youth Symphony Orchestra, proudly presents Masterwork: Bruckner's Te Deum on Sunday, March 29, 2026 at 3:00, conducted by Anne Watson Born, Nashoba Valley Chorale's Music Director, and Jonathan Colby, Artistic Director of the Worcester Youth Symphony Orchestra. The Te Deum brings 180 musicians together joined by four guest soloists.
The concert will take place in the beautiful Mechanics Hall in Worcester. Other works will include Brahms' Academic Festival Overture with Sir Malcom Sargent choral finale; Wagner's Elsa's Procession To The Cathedral; Tchaikovsky's 1812 Overture; and Bruckner's Os Justi and Locus Iste.

Event Details:
Date:     Sunday, March 29, 2026
Time:     3:00 PM
Place:    Mechanics Hall, 321 Main Street, Worcester, MA
Tickets:  $25 Adults/Seniors if purchased online ($30 if purchased at the door)
               $5 Children under age 18

The Nashoba Valley Chorale is well known through Central Massachusetts and draws singers from towns in the heart of Nashoba Valley as well as from all over the metro-west Boston area and southern New Hampshire. For more information about Nashoba Valley Chorale, visit https://nvcsings.org/

Worcester Chamber Music Society Presents
“La Fête Française” April 10 & 12, 2026

March 13, 2026   Worcester, MA –  Worcester Chamber Music Society continues its 20th season with performances of a concert titled “La Fête Française” in Fitchburg on April 10 and in Worcester on April 12.
Grab your beret and a warm croissant and get in the spirit of this French-themed program that puts the harp front and center. Ravel’s Introduction and Allegro was commissioned to showcase the innovations by a French harp-making company. Typically a deliberate and decidedly slow composer, Ravel wrote this piece in a mere 3 days.
Delicate, light, and charming, Saint-Saën’s Fantaisie is virtuosic for both harp and violin. The famous composer created this sparkling musical pas-de-deux for 2 sisters, succeeding in crafting a single-movement piece that feels light and improvised.
Chausson’s Piano Quartet is unmistakable in its French Romanticism, lyrical, bouyant, and lush. Remarkably, he never intended to be a composer; he studied and became a lawyer, though with no real interest in it he dabbled in several other occupations and art forms before landing at the Paris Conservatory where he studied music.
Worcester Chamber Music Society Musicians: Krista Buckland Reisner: violin, Rohan Gregory: violin, Peter Sulski: viola, David Russell: cello, Randall Hodgkinson: piano
Friday, April 10 @7:30PM Sunday, April 12 @4PM
Fitchburg Art Museum Shapiro Hall, Joy of Music
185 Elm Street, Fitchburg 1 Gorham Street, Worcester
Pre-concert talk @7 PM Pre-concert talk @3:30 PM

Reception to follow immediately
The April 10 concert is  funded in part by the Gardner  and Lunenburg Cultural Councils, local agencies funded by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency.

Venue is handicapped accessible.
Tickets are available at https://worcesterchambermusic.org/la-fete-francaise/ or by calling the WCMS office at (508) 926-8624.
Weston ma walk2

WESTON, MA WALK

SATURDAY, April 25th– The Walk 'n Mass Volkssport Club invites walkers to complete a 5km or 10km (3.1 or 6.2 mile) walk route in Weston, MA. This is a walk-at-your-own pace, just-for-fun event “in your own backyard.”

The start point is the Weston Public Library, 87 School Street, Weston,MA 02493. Register and begin walking between 10:30-12:30. Finish by 4 p.m. There is a $4 participation fee per person. Donations are accepted. The 5km and 10km routes are on mostly flat and paved surfaces.The trail would be doable for strollers but difficult for wheelchairs due to the trail through the woods, a short grassy path, and uneven pavement in some places.

The 10km route consists of the 5km route with 2 loops branching off the 5km route. Except for one stretch of the 10km route following a trail through some woods and another short, steep path joining the rail trail, both routes are on sidewalks and the rail trail passing some historic buildings, residential areas with large homes and tree-filled spaces. Both the 10km and 5km routes continue and exit onto Concord Rd to complete the route through the center of Weston.

Walkers will pass the fieldstone First Parish Church and the Colonial Revival-style Weston Town Hall, a fire station built in 1914 the town’s original library built in 1899 and now the home of Weston Art & Innovation Center as well as the Weston Media Center.

Volkssporting events sponsored by Walk 'n Mass Volkssport Club promote fun, fitness and friendship through non-competitive walking and biking. There is also an achievement awards program through the American Volkssport Association (AVA). For further information contact Marianne at (339)-204-3700. You may also contact www.walknmass.org for this event and future events.

Concord Conservatory of Music Issues Call to Artists for 20th Anniversary Public Art Project, Pianos on the Town

Pianos on the town

CONCORD, MA — In celebration of its 20th anniversary and two decades of bringing music to the heart of the community, the Concord Conservatory of Music (CCM) announces Pianos on the Town, a vibrant public art initiative arriving this spring. CCM is now inviting local and regional artists to submit original design proposals to transform upright pianos into unique, playable works of art.

The artist-designed pianos will be installed in high-traffic outdoor locations throughout Concord and West Concord, where community members of all ages are encouraged to stop, play, and enjoy the experience. The public exhibition will run from May 30 through June 27, 2026. A full map of piano locations and a schedule of pop-up CCM performances will be released in May 2026.

Produced in partnership with the internationally recognized arts organization Sing for Hope, Pianos on the Town brings together visual art and live music to foster creativity, accessibility, and community connection. The project will launch with a communitywide unveiling on May 30, 2026, marking the official debut of the painted pianos across town.

“For twenty years, CCM has been dedicated to the belief that music should be accessible to everyone,” said Kate Yoder, Executive Director and Founder of CCM. “Pianos on the Town is a joyful expression of that mission—an open invitation for people to pause, listen, and play, while celebrating the extraordinary talent of our local artistic community.”

Artist Submission Details
CCM seeks bold, imaginative, and durable designs that reflect the character, history, and spirit of Concord. Selected artists will receive a stipend and the opportunity to showcase their work in one of the town’s most visible and engaging public settings. Eight to ten designs will be selected.

Application Deadline: March 30, 2026
  • Launch Day Celebration: May 30, 2026
  • Exhibition Dates: May 30 – June 27, 2026
  • Guidelines and How to Apply: Artists may submit proposals through the Sing for Hope digital application portal now open to the public.
Adjudication Process
Submitted designs will be reviewed by a selection committee comprised of local artists, business leaders, and community stakeholders. Proposals will be evaluated based on artistic merit, durability for outdoor display, and alignment with the project’s goal of encouraging public engagement and community connection.  If you would like to apply and have questions, please contact Sara Seng at Sseng@ConcordConservatory.org.
Fresh start furniture 2

Fresh Start Furniture Bank
Www.freshstartfurniturebank.org

All of us Fresh Start volunteers were wearing our green on Tuesday, St. Patrick’s Day! We are hoping to see some donations come in today. At present, we are in need of pristine mattresses, and new or gently used towel sets, queen size sheets sets, and shower curtains. We are also low on couches now. We would love to hand out gift cards to our clients for them to pick up things they need for their homes. If you can donate gift cards from Target, Amazon, or Job Lot, that would be great. Last week I entered 51,000 items into our inventory!!  This number system was set up shortly after the pandemic.  We inventory all of our furniture, artwork, lamps, appliances, dishes, and rugs.
     Look at our website for more details. You can bring donations to us at 16 Brent Dr. in Hudson on Tuesday and Thursday mornings from nine to noon, Household items only ( no furniture).  Saturdays, you can bring furniture between 8:30 and 10:30, and other household goods from 8:30 to noon.
     Thank you for your help!

Easter Festivities

 
Maynard – Fire Safety Easter Egg Hunt taking place at the Maynard Fire Department on Saturday, 3/28 from 11:30AM - 1PM. FREE – Reserve a spot on Eventbrite.

Acton/Boxborough – ABFN Spring Fling and Egg Hunt at Boardwalk Campus Playground, 73 Spruce Street, Acton on Saturday, 3/28 from 10 – 11:30AM. Register at www.abfamily.org.

Concord – Annual Concord Rec Egg Hunt at Emerson Park Track, Concord on Friday, 3/27 from 5 – 6PM.

Bedford – Bedford Family Connection Spring Egg Hunt at Davis Elementary School Gymnasium on Saturday 3/28 from 10 – 11AM. Register at bfctoday.org. Free for members, small fee for nonmembers.
-Easter Egg-Stravaganza at The Lutheran Church of the Savior, 426 Davis Road, Bedford on Saturday 3/28 at 10:30AM.

Stow – Stow Lions Easter Bunny Breakfast at Center School in Stow on Sunday, 3/29 from 8AM – to 12:30PM.

Sudbury – Easter Egg Olympics at United Methodist Church, 251 Old Sudbury Road, Sudbury on Saturday, 3/28 from 2 – 3PM.

Chelmsford – Easter Egg Hunt at Aldersgate UMC, 242 Boston Road (Rt. 4), Chelmsford on Saturday 4/4 from 10 – 11:30AM.



Egg Your House, Relay For Life Fundraiser - Take the pressure off, and order 50 toy filled eggs for $30.  We will bring them to your house the night before Easter - April 4th - and scatter the eggs in your front yard (please note, we will not be hiding them).  You can also order them as a surprise for a neighbor, friend, relative, etc!  We will go to Maynard, Acton, Concord, and Stow.  You must order them by March 25th.  Email kim.lalli@comcast.net, for more information and/or to get an order form.  Checks can be made out to Kim Lalli or Venmo, details will be given at the time of the order.  Help us raise money for the American Cancer Society and help more people have more birthdays.

Keep the Blood Supply Stable: Give Blood or Platelets with Red Cross

 
Free A1C testing on successful donations, $15 Amazon Gift Card by email for coming to give in March

BOSTON, March 9, 2026 — This March, the American Red Cross urges donors to help the national blood supply recover following a severe shortage and empower their health by making an appointment to give blood or platelets. Donors of all blood types remain critical to keeping momentum up and the blood supply steady headed into spring.

Some parts of the nation are still clearing snow, but the threat of severe spring weather is already growing. Now is the time to book a blood or platelet donation appointment to help prevent any future disruption to patient care.

Help is needed right now ─ and a simple act of donating blood or platelets can be the lifesaving gift people are counting on. Book a time to give blood or platelets now by visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS or by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App.

The Red Cross will perform A1C testing on successful blood, platelet and plasma donations made March 1-31, 2026 (one result in 2026). Those who come to give blood, platelets or plasma March 1-31, 2026, will receive a $15 Amazon Gift Card by email. Details on both offers can be found at RedCrossBlood.org/March.

Upcoming blood donation opportunities March 14-31:

Sudbury
3/19/2026: 12 p.m. - 5 p.m., First Baptist Church of Sudbury, 162 Landham Rd
3/30/2026: 2 p.m. - 7 p.m., First Baptist Church of Sudbury, 162 Landham Rd

The Silver Club of the Uxbridge Senior Center 3 Day Trip to Cape Cod and Martha's Vineyard

The Silver Club of the Uxbridge Senior Center will be taking a 3 day trip to Cape Cod and Martha's Vineyard from July 28-30 with a pick up at the Millbury Park and Ride. The cost is $439 and includes the bus, hotel, 2 breakfasts, 2 dinners, the ferry ride to Martha's Vineyard, and guided tours of Hyannis, Sandwich, and the outer Cape (including stops in Provincetown and Chatham). Please call Sue at 508-341-0797 for more information. 
American art at 250

American Art at 250: Masterworks of a Nation

Please join The Friends of the Goodnow Library in celebrating America's extraordinary artistic legacy as we commemorate our nation's 250th anniversary with a curated exploration of the masterworks that have defined our cultural identity. From the luminous landscapes of the Hudson River School to the bold innovations of Abstract Expressionism, this program showcases the diverse voices and revolutionary spirits that have shaped American art across two and a half centuries. Discover how American artists have continuously redefined not only our visual culture, but art itself on the world stage.

This program will take place on Sunday, March 29, 2026, at 3 PM in the Community Meeting Room of the Goodnow Library, 21 Concord Road, Sudbury, MA. Admission is free due to a generous bequest from the estate of Stella and Frank Ricciardi to the Friends of the Goodnow Library. Seating is first come, first served, and free parking is available at the library. In case of inclement weather, please check www.friendsofgoodnow.org for updates.

The presenter, Jane Oneail, is the founder of Culturally Curious, a company that curates and presents art appreciation programs. Jane holds a master’s in Art History from Boston University and a master’s in Education from Harvard University. Born and raised in NH, she has worked at some of the state's most esteemed cultural institutions, including the League of New Hampshire Craftsmen, where she served as Executive Director, and the Currier Museum of Art where she held the role of Senior Educator. Jane has also taught at the college level for more than a decade, most recently at Southern New Hampshire University. The Friends of Goodnow are delighted to have Jane return to Sudbury. She is a very popular and personable presenter, and her art programs are always well received.

From Gas to Induction:
Cleaner Cooking for Your Home and Climate
Learn, Ask Questions, and Find Out How Incentives Can Help You Make the Change

 
You may have heard more people talking about switching from gas to induction cooking—and for good reason. Induction cooktops offer a cleaner, safer, and more efficient way to cook, while helping reduce indoor air pollution and supporting your home electrification journey.
Here’s why induction cooking is gaining popularity across Massachusetts:
Cleaner and healthier indoor air
Gas stoves release pollutants like nitrogen dioxide and methane into your home. Induction cooktops produce no on-site emissions, helping create a healthier indoor environment for you and your family.
Faster, safer, and more efficient cooking
Induction uses magnetic technology to heat your cookware directly, making it faster than gas and traditional electric stoves. The surface stays cooler, reducing burn risks and improving safety.
Save energy and reduce emissions
Induction cooktops are highly efficient, using less energy and supporting Massachusetts’ transition to cleaner electricity. They’re an important step toward an all-electric, climate-friendly home.
Incentives can help lower the cost
Massachusetts and local programs offer rebates and incentives that can make switching to induction more affordable than you might expect.
Curious if induction is right for you?
Join our free webinar to learn how induction works, compare costs, explore available incentives, and hear answers to common questions from local experts.
March 19, 2026, at 7:00 PM
Register: bit.ly/cleaner-cooking
Together, we can create healthier homes and a cleaner energy future for our communities.
Sudbury author joseph sidari

SUDBURY AUTHOR WINS 
INTERNATIONAL WRITING CONTEST 
 Upcoming Hollywood Awards Event 


HOLLYWOOD, CA - Sudbury, Massachusetts author Joseph Sidari is a winner in the L. Ron Hubbard Writers of the Future Contest earning him a trip to Hollywood for a week-long master-class workshop, an awards event and his winning story will be published in the international bestselling anthology, L. Ron Hubbard Presents Writers of the Future Volume 42.

Joseph Sidari lives in the Boston suburbs with his wife and a delightfully spoiled labradoodle named Chloe, who takes him for walks twice a day. As a practicing physician, he works hard caring for his patients while trying to kill off his protagonists. He is a current member of the Grub Street Writers Group of Boston and a former member of the Spacecraft Writers’ Group.
He's been a lifelong fan of reading speculative fiction, but only started writing it after flipping his bicycle during triathlon training. Typing at his computer felt like a less risky hobby, so that summer, with his wrist on the mend, he wrote a novel. Then another. On his third attempt, he found an agent who suggested that writing short stories could help build his reputation while the book was being shopped around. The manuscript never sold, but he realized short stories were fun, too. Since then, he has earned multiple honorable mentions in the Writers of the Future contest and two Silvers, while publishing several short stories—though not enough to “pro out."
The Contest, one of the most prestigious writing and illustrating competitions in the world, is currently in its 43rd year and is judged by some of the premier names in speculative fiction.
Following the 1982 release of his internationally acclaimed bestselling science fiction novel, Battlefield Earth, written in celebration of 50 years as a professional writer, L. Ron Hubbard created the Writers of the Future (writersofthefuture.com) in 1983 to provide a means for aspiring writers of speculative fiction to get that much-needed break. Due to the success of the Writers of the Future Contest, the companion Illustrators of the Future Contest was inaugurated five years later.
In the 42 years of the Writers of the Future Contest, there have been 571 winners and published finalists. The past winners of the Writing Contest have published 2,000 novels and nearly 6,300 short stories. They have produced 36 New York Times bestsellers, and their works have sold over 60 million copies. 
For more information about the Contests, go to www.WritersoftheFuture.com.

59th Annual Ham & Turkey Raffle
At Stony Brook Fish & Game

(128 Lowell Road – Westford) Sunday March 29th – 1PM
20 Easter Hams and 20 Turkeys raffled on a spin wheel
*Sirloin Strips, Prime Ribs and others are also being raffled off. Raffle tickets on sale at the event! $1500 Cash drawing as well! (Drawing tickets on sale now – see any Stony Brook member) Open to the public.
Food and beverages will also be available.

Hudson Historical Society High Tea

Step back in time with us for an unforgettable afternoon at an 18th century tea.
Join us on Saturday, March 21st from 2 PM to 4 PM as we welcome special guests— “Mistress Abigail and Mistress Christine,” bringing to life 18th century life and fashion of an 18th century lady. Come and see what's under those beautiful colonial dresses. Enjoy period charm, lively conversation, and colonial-inspired refreshments. This event celebrates our 250th celebration—perfect for the 250th celebration of our country.
Tickets are $20 per person.
Contact Mistress Christine for more information and tickets.
cwdimare@gmail.com or 978-424-4668
Turkey hill ragtime orchestra

Suzie Cartreine and the Turkey Hill Ragtime Orchestra
Sunday, March 15th, 2026 – 4:00PM

The FPC Music Committee is proud to present Suzie Cartreine and the Turkey Hill Ragtime Orchestra in concert in the Sanctuary on Sunday, March 15, 2026, at 4 pm.
The Orchestra plays vintage arrangements of ragtime music and popular songs from the 1890’s–1920’s. That includes rags, fox-trots, slow drags, two-steps, waltzes and more, and features works of Joplin, Salisbury, Lamb, Turpin, Berlin, and others. They put a smile on your face and a spring in your step. Guaranteed to be toe-tapping fun for the whole family!
Founded in 2022, Turkey Hill Ragtime Orchestra sprang from pianist Suzie Cartreine’s lifelong love of ragtime, combined with her academic interest in historical performance practice.
The band is drawn from a roster of professional-level musicians from the Greater Boston area. Recent appearances include the New England Folk Festival, Chelmsford Open Spaces, the Medford Library Summer Concert Series, and numerous porchfests in the Boston area.
Suzie Cartreine was Director of Music and Organist at FPC from 2002 to 2011.
The suggested donation is $20–40. Donations will be accepted at Eventbrite, at the door, and at Sunday coffee hour on March 8 and 15.
Audio and video samples are available on YouTube.

Local Residents Named to Simmons University Dean's List

 
BOSTON, Mass. (Grassroots Newswire) February 19, 2026 - The following local residents have been named to the 2025 fall semester dean's list at Simmons University in Boston.

Acton (01720): * Jamilah Kasozi, * Bella Mojica, * Grace Poisson

Concord (01742): * Vivi Larew, * Maliha Malek, * Maya McCabe, * Blythe Pomeroy, * Fay Tubbs,
* Sonia Vader

Maynard (01754): * Emma Cryan, * Carly Rieter
Sudbury (01776): * Olivia Shienbrood

To qualify for dean's list status, undergraduate students must obtain a grade point average of 3.5 or higher, based on 12 or more credit hours of work in classes using the letter grade system.

About Simmons University
Located in the heart of Boston, Simmons is a respected private university offering nearly 50 majors and programs for undergraduate women and graduate programs open to all on campus, in blended formats or entirely online, in nursing and health sciences, business, communications, social work, public health, library and information science, and more. Founded in 1899, Simmons inspires a culture of education, connection, and action through high-impact learning with engaged faculty, an immersive community that forges lifelong networks, and career-centered programs that accelerate professional success. The result is a Simmons experience that prepares graduates to thrive as they launch and advance in their careers. For more information, please visit www.simmons.edu.

Freedom’s Way Invites Local Organizations to Join 2026 Hidden Treasures Festival
Partner sign-up deadline: April 1, 2026

 
CONCORD, MA, Jan. 26, 2026 – Freedom’s Way National Heritage Area (FWNHA) is inviting museums, cultural organizations, historical societies, libraries, land trusts, arts groups, and other organizations across its 45-community region to become partners in the 2026 Hidden Treasures Festival of Nature, Culture & History, taking place throughout the month of May.

Hidden Treasures is an annual, month-long, region-wide celebration that highlights the people, places, stories, landscapes, and creative traditions that define this nationally designated Heritage Area. Participating organizations host free, public events or activities—such as guided walks, open houses, performances, exhibits, talks, or self-guided experiences—that showcase a “hidden treasure” in their community.

Participation is free, and partner organizations receive broad regional visibility through Freedom’s Way’s website, interactive event map, newsletters, print promotions, and mobile app. Mini-grants of up to $350 are available to help offset eligible program expenses.

Organizations within the Heritage Area’s 45 communities are encouraged to learn more and sign up at https://freedomsway.org/HTPartner or share questions/ideas tohiddentreasures@freedomsway.org .

Boost the Blood Supply: Red Cross Offers Free A1C Testing as 1 in 5 Donors Have Levels in Prediabetic or Diabetic Range

 
Successful donations will receive free testing in March, $15 Amazon Gift Card by email for coming to give March 1-31

New American Red Cross data reveals that 1 in 5 blood donors have elevated A1C levels — a sign that prediabetes and diabetes are prevalent among adults in generally good health.
  • Early detection isn’t just good for long-term health — it’s also a warning for people’s wallets. As the nation’s largest blood supplier, the Red Cross is uniquely positioned to provide donors with health insights that can help bridge preventative care gaps, such as undiagnosed diabetes and hypertension.
  • Visit RedCrossBlood.org now to book a time to give blood or platelets. In March, the Red Cross will provide free A1C testing on successful blood, platelet and plasma donations. Those who come to give March 1-31 will also get a $15 Amazon Gift Card by email. See RedCrossBlood.org/March.
Saga spring equinox 3

SAGA Spring Equinox Art Fair Celebrates Local Creativity and Community


Stow, MA – The Stow Area Guild of Artists (SAGA), in partnership with the First Parish Church of Stow & Acton, invites the community to welcome the new season at the Spring Equinox Art Fair, taking place March 21 and 22 at First Parish Church of Stow & Acton, 353 Great Road, Stow, MA.
Event Hours:
  • Saturday, March 21: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
  • Sunday, March 22: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
This celebration of local art will feature works for sale from more than 25 talented local artists. Visitors can explore a diverse array of original, handcrafted artwork including pottery, photography, paintings, textiles, and much more. The fair offers a unique opportunity to find one-of-a-kind pieces while supporting artists from the surrounding community.
Guests are encouraged to meet the artists and learn about their creative processes.
In addition, each participating artist has donated a piece of artwork for a special raffle. Attendees can enter for a chance to win an original work.
Live music by singer, guitarist, Alex Rosewicz will create a welcoming and festive atmosphere throughout the event.
Admission is free and open to the public. There is plenty for free parking
Join SAGA and the First Parish Church Arts Committee in celebrating creativity, community, and the arrival of spring at this inspiring seasonal art fair. For more information go to www.stow-artists.org/.

MIDDLESEX CONSERVATION DISTRICT 2026 SPRING PLANT SALE

The Middlesex Conservation District will be holding its annual Spring Plant Sale on Friday, May 1, from 4:00 - 7:00 PM and Saturday, May 2, from 9:00 AM – 1:00PM at the Minuteman High School. The address is 758 Marrett Road, Lexington, MA 02421. All items can be pre-ordered through April 24th and picked up on the sale days – we encourage early ordering as all items are sold on a first come, first served basis.

To place an order, you can go to our website at https://middlesexconservationdistrict.org/spring-sale-ordering/, go to the Spring Sale page, and order the plants you are interested in online, or email
admin@middlesexconservationdistrict.org to request a paper brochure. The order form is also available to view online. Offerings will include native shrub seedlings, wildflowers, ferns, grasses, and hardgoods such as garden labels. All plants are straight, native species that benefit our native pollinators, wildlife, and local ecosystem. We will also be selling excess first quality stock on the days listed above.

The Middlesex Conservation District is a not-for-profit environmental agency whose purpose is conservation of natural resources of Middlesex County. Proceeds from our biannual plant sales provide educational programs and other activities which aim to protect our soil and water resources. For more information about our sale or programs please visit https://middlesexconservationdistrict.org/.
Emass senior softball

EMASS Senior Softball League Opens Player Registration for 2026 Season
Be Part of a Team, Form Lasting Friendships and Enjoy Balanced Competition

WAYLAND, Mass. – February 26, 2026 – Eastern Massachusetts Senior Softball (EMASS) is opening its annual registration campaign for men and women softball players age 50 and older. With approximately 500 members, the league attracts players from towns across Eastern Massachusetts, with games played primarily in Wayland, Medfield, Ashland, and Framingham. The EMASS season runs from late April through early October, including playoffs. Interested players can register for the EMASS 2026 season at https://e-mass.org/current-programs.

EMASS has six divisions that accommodate a range of skill levels. Two play doubleheaders on Saturday mornings, and four play on weekday mornings. EMASS has many seniors in their fifties and sixties who can still hit a ball over a 300-foot fence, run down a deep drive in the outfield, or turn a double play in the infield. Other divisions allow players whose talents may have diminished over time to enjoy playing with similarly skilled friends.

A Community of Like-Minded Players Who Become Friends: “We are a group of folks who recognize how lucky we are to be able to play a game we love at our current age and at a level that matches our abilities,” said Steve Bober, Commissioner of EMASS.
“I joined EMASS when I retired and didn’t know a single person,” said Al Handel, an EMASS Division Coordinator. “Six years later, the best thing about being part of this community has been the number of friends I’ve made. This is truly the essence of the experience.”

A Physical Activity Outlet with Balanced Competition: EMASS adds about 60 new players each year. “We shuffle team rosters in all divisions every year to enhance connections within our large softball-loving community,” said Board member Rich Goldberg. “Our members enjoy competing with and against their friends.”
A Sense of Accomplishment:  In retirement, without a job to perform consistently, some retirees worry about how they will enjoyably fill their days.
“A lot of my self-worth came from my job, so when I retired, I worried whether I would still matter,” said Andy Wrobel. “EMASS softball has helped answer that question with a resounding ‘yes.’ Now, in addition to other pursuits, I measure my accomplishments in hits, runs scored, smiles, and high-fives.” 

For more information about EMASS Senior Softball League, visit www.e-mass.org.
About EMASS Senior Softball League :EMASS was founded in 1995 and offers active seniors of all skill levels a safe, well-organized opportunity to play competitive slow-pitch softball. Players can sign up for a division with players of similar abilities. With two Saturday divisions and four weekday divisions, players can play at a level most comfortable for them. Many members play on different teams in multiple divisions.
Open door theater

Open Door Theater Takes Flight with HONK! March 20-29 in Acton


Open Door Theater proudly presents HONK!, a musical telling of “The Ugly Duckling” story. HONK! is a heartwarming celebration of being different that is sure to delight audiences of all ages. Ugly looks quite a bit different from his siblings, and others are quick to notice and point this out. Ugly is kind-hearted, awkward and innocent, and his journey of self-discovery is the heart of the show. This messaging supports the mission of Open Door Theater and will resonate with audiences now more than ever. Like Open Door Theater, HONK! has the audacity to assert that the default state of community should be inclusion and that “fowl” behavior will no longer be tolerated.
Open Door’s cast will present 6 performances March 20-29, 2026 at the Dragonfly Theater at RJ Grey Jr. H.S, 16 Charter Rd, Acton. All performances are relaxed/sensory friendly and feature ASL interpretation and open captioning. There will be audio-described performances on the second weekend. Tickets are $20 at www.OpenDoorTheater.org. Discounted tickets for EBT, WIC and ConnectorCare Cardholders. Over its 45-year history, Open Door has provided accessible opportunities for all including underserved audiences and participants to enjoy live theater.
Performances: 
  • Friday, March 20, 2026 at 7:00 pm / ASL, open captioning, sensory-friendly
  • Saturday, March 21, 2026 at 1:00 pm / ASL, open captioning, sensory-friendly
  • Sunday, March 22, 2026 at 1:00 pm / ASL, open captioning, sensory-friendly
  • Friday, March 27, 2026 at 7:00 pm / ASL, open captioning, sensory-friendly, audio described
  • Saturday March 28, 2026 at 1:00 pm / ASL, open captioning, sensory-friendly, audio described
  • Sunday, March 29, 2026 at 1:00 pm / ASL, open captioning, sensory-friendly, audio described


Sponsored in part by the Community Foundation for Metrowest, Astra Foundation, Mass Cultural Council, Middlesex Savings Bank, Main Street Bank, Acton Lions, AB Community Compass and the Local Cultural Councils of Acton-Boxborough, Ayer, Carlisle, Concord, Harvard, Littleton, Stow, Sudbury and Westford.

Learning from Our Towns on Ten Years of Local Climate Work: Feb 24, 7PM

 
For the past ten years, countries and communities of all sizes have set goals to limit the threat of climate change.  In many ways this began with the International Panel on Climate Change’s agreement to limit global warming to 1.5C with specific goals for 2030 and 2050 to help us reach net zero carbon emissions. This is a big and varied effort affecting actions at the national and international level, as well as at the town and individual levels. At the local town level, we have installed solar, added EV cars, and charging stations, insulated our homes, and added heat pumps to homes and town buildings. We have learned to value native plants and begun to protect critical pollinators.

It’s hard to remember our initial reactions to new technologies like solar cells on house roofs. Few of us understood heat pumps. Remember the first time you saw or drove an EV or hybrid car? Since then, we have also learned more about the electrical grid that makes much of this possible. We have made progress, but still have a long way to go to achieve the 1.5-degree goal if we even can.

This is not to ignore the challenges we face, but we need to learn what progress we and our neighboring towns have made as a base for future plans so we can support one another. We are in this together and our efforts must continue if we are to be successful. Join representatives of four towns to learn about progress and plans to protect our climate. What would you like to know more about?
  • What actions have others taken?
  • What should be done to get more residents engaged?
  • How important is energy affordability?
  • What encourages or discourages people from acting?
To begin the learning and sharing process, there will be a discussion on
February 24 at 7:00 pm at First Parish Church in Stow (353 Great Road). Senator Jamie Eldridge will be present to offer the view from Beacon Hill. We will leave plenty of time for questions so we can learn from each other.
Bible school qr

Illumination Station Vacation Bible School

Registration is now open for Illumination Station Vacation Bible School!  Held at Trinity Church Congregational in Bolton, VBS will be  August 3rd  - 7th from 9AM - 12PM. Vacation Bible School is a free program including Music, Craft, Snack, Recreation, and Bible Learning offered to children in PK - 8th Grade.  This year’s theme will help kids see clearly who Jesus is.  To register online or print a registration form, go to www.trinitybolton.org/vacation-bible-school or use the QR code below.  Trinity is located at 14 Wattaquadock Hill Road.

Help Support People Affected by Domestic Violence in Our Communities

CONCORD, MA – Domestic Violence Services Network, Inc. (DVSN) is pleased to announce a FREE Volunteer Advocate Training program for interested community members. DVSN advocates provide emotional support, risk assessment and safety planning for victims of domestic violence in our 13 partner communities.

The 40-hour training is designed to familiarize volunteers with the many aspects of domestic violence and give them the skills necessary to provide confidential and appropriate services to DVSN’s clients. Once trained, DVSN’s volunteer Advocates provide direct service over the phone, at Concord District Court, and at Emerson Hospital to people affected by domestic violence.

The March 2026 training will be held at the Lexington Police department starting on March 2 through
March 20: Monday and Wednesdays from 4:00 PM to 7:15 PM and Fridays from 9:15 AM to 3:30 PM. For those who decide to activate as volunteer advocates, there is an additional 10 to 12 hours of supervised fieldtraining at the completion of the classroom segment.

The training is provided at no cost to attendees. All necessary materials will be provided. For more
information about the training or to request an application, call (978) 318-3421 or send an e-mail to
training@dvsn.org. Applications are due no later than Wednesday, February 18, 2026.
To learn more about DVSN and its programs, services, and events, visit DVSN.org.

DVSN member communities: Acton, Bedford, Boxborough, Carlisle, Concord, Lexington, Lincoln, Maynard, Stow, Sudbury, Wayland, Weston and Hanscom Security Forces.
Raptors all around us

Free Live Animal Show: Raptors All Around Us

Saturday, March 14, 2026, TWO SHOWS: 9-10 am and 11 am-12 noon

On Saturday, March 14, bring the family and join the Westborough Community Land Trust for a free live bird show, Raptors All Around Us!  There will be two shows, starting at 9 am and 11 am.  Raptor rehabilitator Tom Ricardi will allow us to meet some fascinating birds of prey up close! This show is always a big hit with the young and the curious of all ages! Plan to arrive early as seating is limited. Location:  Knights of Columbus Hall, 17 Willow St., Westborough MA; parking lot in rear. There is no parking along Willow Street. Overflow parking is in Arturo’s parking lot, 54 East Main St.--Walk behind the Arturo’s building to cross directly into the rear of the KofC parking lot. No reservation required. Free; donations to WCLT gratefully accepted at the door. This program is supported in part by a grant from the Westborough Cultural Council, a local agency which is supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency.

For questions contact: events@westboroughlandtrust.org
Sudbury town forum flyer

Sudbury 2026 Town Forum to Address New Open Space & Recreation Plan

Sudbury, MA (February 12, 2026) The Town of Sudbury is set to begin the process of updating our Open Space & Recreation Plan. When complete, the Plan will detail how Sudbury will prioritize natural resource protection, land preservation recreational programing, and recreational land development – and resident input is crucial to the process. The 2026 Town Forum will cover the what, why and when of this important Plan.
2026 Sudbury Town Forum: Open Space & Recreation Plan
Thursday, February 26, 2026
7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Virtual Meeting
Join URL:https://zoom.us/j/360217080
Dial-in:Dial-in number: 978-639-3366 or 470-250-9358
Meeting ID:360 217 080

PANELISTS
The forum will feature:
  • Adam Burney, Sudbury Director of Planning & Community Development
  • Lori Capone, Sudbury Conservation Coordinator
  • Vivian Zeng, Sudbury Director Health & Community Services
  • Amy Hamilton, Sudbury Interim Director of Park & Recreation and Aquatics

WHAT IS AN OPEN SPACE & RECREATION PLAN
An Open Space & Recreation Plan is a tool in helping the Town identify our key goals with respect to open space parcels and outlining a path to achieve them.
Potential Goals
  • Protecting the Town’s water supply
  • Protecting wildlife and critical habitats
  • Preserving the Town’s character
  • Providing active and passive recreation opportunities
  • Developing trail linkages for non-motorized recreation
  • Maintaining town owned lands for enjoyment by the residents
ASK A QUESTION
Questions for the forum may also be submitted in advance via email. Please send questions to townforum@sudbury.ma.us. Please put “2026 Town Forum” in the subject line, and include your name and address for the record. Q&A to follow presentation.
Please visit https://sudbury.ma.us/townforum for more information and updates.

Upcoming Events at 19 Carter - A Nonprofit and Unique Gathering Place in Berlin, MA

 
19 Carter Street, Berlin

Weekly Events: Suggested donation $5

Monday: A Politics-Free Tea Time 2 - 4pm
Turn off your TV and stop by for 2 hours of pleasant tea and pleasantries, pastries with good company, and no politics!
Tuesday: Armchair Meditation 8 - 8:30am
Wednesday: Coffee Hour 9am - 12pm
Wednesday: Office Hours with Melissa (Director of the Berlin COA) 10 – 11am (Every 1st and 3rd Wednesday)
Wednesday: Old Time Music Jam 11am – 1pm (every 2nd and 4th Wednesday)
Wednesday: Irish Session 7 - 10pm
Thursday: Afternoon Games 2 - 4pm
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 – 12pm

Visit 19Carter.org for tickets, registration + more info!

FEBRUARY 22-28, 2026

Monday, February 23, 4:30pm | Social Singing with Music Includes
Learn more at ldfamusic.com/music-includes.
Friday, February 27, 7:30pm | The Jazz Club feat. Mark Russell
Come by for a casual evening at The Jazz Club and be energized with music by the talented violinist and singer Mark Russell! Tickets: $10 at 19Carter.org

Saturday, February 28, 7:30pm til whenever | House Show
A casual night of music for 20- & 30-yr-olds
$10 or pay what you can. Learn more at 19Carter.org
Help affording food

Need Help Affording Food? Call Project Bread’s Toll-Free FoodSource Hotline 

EAST BOSTON, Mass. – When food costs compete with heating bills and rent, many Massachusetts families are facing impossible choices.The uncertainty around nutrition policy changes makes the situation even more challenging. If you or your family need help accessing food, call Project Bread's toll-free FoodSource Hotline today at 1-800-645-8333.
The FoodSource Hotline connects residents to resources right now. Trained counselors help with applications for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), share resources on the Healthy Incentives Program (HIP), connect families to free meals for children, and locate emergency food programs like community meals and food pantries. The hotline also provides referrals to other federal nutrition programs, like Women, Infants, and Children (WIC).
Whether you're a college student, a senior, or a family facing hardship, the FoodSource Hotline provides confidential, free support. The hotline is recommended by the Massachusetts Department of Transitional Assistance and the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.
Call Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. or Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for support, available in more than 180 languages.
Get Help Now: If you are struggling with food insecurity, call 1-800-645-8333. Visit projectbread.org for more information and resources in English, Spanish, Portuguese, Chinese, Vietnamese, and Haitian Creole. 

ARC Comedy Night Benefit is March 13th at Hudson Portuguese Club

The Addiction Referral Center (ARC) is hosting the fifteenth Annual Comedy Night Benefit, featuring the area’s most popular and talented comedians on Friday, March 13, 2026 at the Hudson Portuguese Club, 13 Port Street in Hudson. The event, being held in support of the ARC of Marlborough, will include lots of laughs, food, and raffle prizes. The ARC has been serving the local community for over fifty years, since 1972, and relies on fundraising and donations to provide its services.

Entertainers at the Comedy Night Benefit include popular comedians Mark Riley, Sam Pelletier, and Ethan Cannon. Hosting the evening is Dave Rattigan. 

Regular host Dave Rattigan performed last year in Dublin, Ireland, and he’s also performed in Japan, at Fenway Park, The Cape Cod Melody Tent, South Shore Music Circus, a lumberyard, the lobby of an ad agency, a library, and several parking lots. “There’s nothing funny about the way he looks, until he gives that deadpan look of his,” popular blogger Ralph Fatello (RalphsPic.com) wrote. “His outward appearance is something out of a mature GQ magazine.  He looks like a cross between a semi hip banker, and your mild-mannered father-in-law …. Dave is the master of completely dismantling himself in front of a crowd of strangers.  I’m always torn as to whether I should console him, or just laugh my ass off like everyone else ….” His stand-up has been played on SiriusXM Radio, he’s performed on the syndicated Steve Katsos Show, and he’s been featured on television commercials on NESN. He’s a regular at the Hampton Beach (NH) and Cotuit comedy festivals and is part of the Ranting Parents Comedy Tour.

Mark Riley is an energetic Boston headliner with a unique perspective on everyday situations. Riley was once a professional ice hockey referee (he spent a very short time in the NHL) who also ran a Gymboree. The former runner-up in the Boston Comedy Festival headlines in Boston as well as playing top rooms in Las Vegas, Los Angeles and Atlantic City. Among those he’s performed with are Steven Wright, Joe Rogan and Lenny Clarke. He headlines colleges and corporate shows as well and has worked as an actor in commercials, industrial films, and a hockey-themed comedic web series. He also hosts the podcast Chirping Zebras.

Sam Pelletier has been bringing his unique blend of observation and relatability to audiences for over a decade. Originally from the (somewhat) great state of Maine, Sam won the Cellar on Treadwell Competition in 2023, and was a finalist in the New England’s Funniest Comedian Competition of 2021. He opened for national headliners including Shane Torres, Joe Bartnick, and Alex Edleman. Sam has been featured in the Boston Comedy Festival, Maine Comedy Festival, and Mutiny Radio Comedy Festival in San Francisco. His hobbies include hiking and being a good listener.

Ethan Cannon performs stand-up nightly around Boston and New England, at venues ranging from Off Cabot Comedy Club, the Comedy Studio, Don't Tell Comedy, and Improv Asylum. He recently performed in the Boston Comedy Festival as well as Last Comix Standing at Mohegan Sun's Comix Roadhouse.

Doors open for the event at 6:30 pm and the show begins at 7:30 pm. Food is available for purchase. Coffee and desserts are complimentary. For further information on sponsorships, program ads, tickets or table reservations, call the ARC office at 508-485-4357. Tables of 10 ($350) and individual tickets ($35) should be purchased in advance at the ARC. Chairing the planning for the event are Tracey Gustafson, and Christine Sacco.

The Addiction Referral Center (ARC) ranks as one of the most respected and active recovery service resources in Middlesex County.  As a nonprofit organization, the ARC provides individualized referral services, Recovery Coach appointments and daily peer-support meetings at no cost to those seeking recovery from substance use disorder. To donate to the ARC or sponsor the 15th Annual Comedy Night Benefit please call the ARC (508-485-4357) or go to the website at www.theaddictionreferralcenter.org/2026-comedy

Beantown Rocks!

Intrigued by the sport of curling? Now’s your chance to watch a national curling event in Massachusetts. Curling, an Olympic sport, continues to draw interest and new fans across the Commonwealth. It’s a sport where women can participate on equal footing with men.
Broomstones Curling Club, located in Wayland, MA at 1 Curling Lane, is hosting the National Women's Bonspiel on February 19-22. Sponsored by the United States Women’s Curling Association, women from across the country representing 28 different curling clubs will challenge each other during a four-day bonspiel starting on Thursday, February 19th, with games also scheduled on Friday and Saturday, culminating with finals on Sunday, February 22nd.
Invited guests to the Opening Ceremony on Wednesday, February 18 at 7 p.m. include Wayland Select Board Chair Carol Martin, State Rep. Carmine Gentile, USWCA President Ann Kirkpatrick, and Rich Collier, President of Broomstones Curling Club.
Though members of the public are welcome to come down to Broomstones to view the action in person, the games can also be streamed from home. Find more information, including teams, schedule, and the live game streams at the bonspiel's event page here: https://sites.google.com/broomstones.org/2026-uswca-nationals/home.
And for those interested in trying the sport, Broomstones will be hosting an Olympic Open House later this season. The club also offers limited ice rental opportunities for private groups throughout the season, subject to availability. Check the website for further details: https://broomstones.com.
Call for art

Call for Art

Artists of all ages are invited to share their creative voices in a celebration of diversity, democracy, and the American spirit. Through art, we can evoke emotion, spark imagination, and inspire meaningful connection across communities.
Contest entry is free. Deadline for submissions for the juried exhibition and contest is April 10. At a time when our country feels deeply divided, this contest aims to highlight our shared values, encourage civic engagement, and create opportunities for thoughtful and productive dialogue. Selected works will be featured in exhibitions that showcase and support local artists.
Please spread the word with makers—especially young and aspiring artists.
Visit FCULittle.org for full contest details
Questions? Email artfordemocracy@fculittle.org.
Thank you for helping support creativity, community, and democratic expression. This contest is proudly co-sponsored by community organizations including: the Reclaiming our Democracy group of First Church Unitarian in Littleton, Mass.; the League of Women Voters of Westford; the Littleton and Westford cultural councils and the Community Gallery of the Fitchburg Art Museum.
Intro to basic astrophotography

Intro to Basic Astrophotography

Assabet Valley Camera Club Program

HUDSON: On Wednesday, March 4, the Assabet Valley Camera Club (AVCC) is pleased to host Temu K. Nana whose passion for astrophotography, from basic nightscapes to deep space imaging, is evident in his photos of the night sky. He shoots with everything from stock cameras and lenses in his New Hampshire backyard to computer-controlled, observatory-class telescopes at a remote site in California. In this presentation, Temu will cover the basics of imaging the night sky, including night landscapes, single-shot Milky Way, and star trail images.

As a professional photographer, Temu’s specialties include wildlife, landscape, and deep-sky astrophotography. In addition to leading trips across all seven continents, he is a sought-after presenter on astrophotography, sharing his knowledge through camera clubs, schools, and online mentorship programs. View his work at https://www.tknanaphoto.com/ .
Intro to Basic Astrophotography is supported in part from a grant from the Hudson Cultural Council, a local agency which is supported by the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency. The presentation is free to attend and open to the public.

Currently, AVCC meetings are using a hybrid approach where members can come together either in person or via Zoom. If you are interested in attending the program, contact AVCC at avcc.digital@hotmail.com a few days prior to the meeting to request a link to the event or to let us know you will be attending in person. Guests are welcome to attend up to two consecutive club meetings prior to becoming a member. For membership information, go to https://www.assabetvalleycameraclub.com/Club/MembershipInfo.aspx .The club’s Zoom room opens at 7:00 PM with a brief business meeting at 7:15 followed by Temu’s presentation at 7:30.

AVCC in-person meetings are held at the Hudson Senior Center, 29 Church Street, Hudson and are open to the public. The first meeting of the month generally features a program designed to instruct and/or to entertain camera enthusiasts. During the second monthly meeting, a competition of members’ digital images is judged and critiqued by qualified individuals. Assabet Valley Camera Club, affiliated with both the New England Camera Club Council (NECCC) and the Photographic Society of America (PSA), participates in inter-club competitions on regional, national and international levels.

AVCC welcomes anyone interested in learning more about photography as a visual art and its practical application as a science.  Members benefit from the hands-on experiences, from the knowledge presented in programs, and from having their work critiqued. For more information, check out AVCC's website https://www.assabetvalleycameraclub.com//
Holliston walk

HOLLISTON,MA WALK

SATURDAY, March 28th – The Walk 'n Mass Volkssport Club invites walkers to complete a 5km (3.1 mile) or 10km (6.2 mile) walk route in Holliston, MA. This is a memorial walk for Chuck Lipson, a long-time walker, volunteer, and club member. This is a walk-at-your-own pace, just-for-fun event “in your own backyard.” The start point is the First Congregational Church, 725 Washington Street, Holliston, MA 01746. Registration for the 10km walking event is from 9:00 -10:00 a.m. and registration for the 5km walking event is 10:15-11:00 a.m. The walk times are staggered so that wakers will finish shortly before noon when the soups are served. The participation fee is $4 per person. The 5km and 10km walk routes are mostly on paved surfaces with a few slight inclines suitable for baby strollers, but difficult for wheelchairs due to some missing curb cuts..
The 10km distance comprises two 5km loops. The first 5km loop is mostly on flat , paved surfaces, with a portion on the stone dust path of the Upper Charles River Trail. This loop heads back to the rail trail, over the 8-arch Bogastow Brook Viaduct, past Blair Square, and under the 1-arch railroad bridge into the Mudville neighborhood. A tribute to Casey at the Bat and Rita’s Labyrinth will be seen here. Walkers will head to Arch Street, walking under a 1-arch railroad bridge (listed in the Guinness Book of Records as the smallest railroad bridge in the world). The second loop of the 10k route passes The Superette in downtown Holliston, historic homes dating to the early 19th century, and also the Mudville neighborhood before reaching Pleasure Point Beach on Lake Winthrop.
Walkers are invited to join fellow walkers for the Walk’n Mass’s Soup Social which begins at noon and kicks off our walking season. If you would like to contribute an appetizer, soup, bread or dessert please notify the contact person Beate Hait. No nuts please as the facility is nut-free.
Volkssporting events sponsored by Walk 'n Mass Volkssport Club promote fun, fitness and friendship through non-competitive walking and biking to the public. There is also an achievement awards program through the AVA: America's Walking Club (ava.org). For further information contact Beate at (774) 292-9098 or beateh1@aol.com. Additional information
at www.walknmass.org for this event and others.

The Stow Garden Club invites you to learn The Fascinating Story of Where Our Vegetables Came From

Join Bonnie Power of the MASS Master Gardener Speakers Bureau to learn the origins of the vegetables we eat, what they looked like in the wild, and how people domesticated them for better nutrition, yields, and flavors. The public is welcome at no charge. Residents of Bolton, Stow, and surrounding communities are especially invited. Pompositticut Community Center - 509 Great Rd in Stow.
Memorial congregational church

Memorial Congregational Church
Celebrates Successful Start
to Capital Campaign Church Seeks to Enhance Building to Benefit the Entire Community.

Sudbury, MA, February 4, 2026
When members and friends of Memorial Congregational Church of Sudbury (MCC) gathered to officially kick off the church’s Capital Campaign, they were met with a big surprise.
In the fall, church members voted to approve a Campaign to enhance the buildings and properties, reflecting MCC’s continued commitment to providing a safe and accessible welcome to all. The list of proposed projects included a new roof, creating universally accessible entrances to Ames Hall, and repaving the parking lot. These projects were chosen because they impact many events that reach the surrounding community, such as the Silver Bells Fair, Holiday Handbells Concert, Document Shredding, and Electronics Recycling.
After working with consultant the Rev. Dr. Jay Terbush, an overall goal of $650,000 was set. A small group of potential donors was approached during the “quiet phase” to determine if they would consider pledging earlier to help get the campaign off to a successful start. The total for these advanced pledges was to be announced at a Kick-Off Party held on January 23.
Party attendees received a big surprise when it was announced that the Advanced Giving phase surpassed the $650,000 goal to reach over $745,000 in pledges. “It was certainly unexpected,” said MCC’s pastor, the Rev. Tom O’Brien, “We knew that folks would step up to get the campaign started on the right foot, but I didn’t dare believe we’d already exceeded our goal. It just shows how important MCC is to this community.”
The success of the Advanced Giving phase will allow the church to accomplish other projects such as a refurbished kitchen and bathroom. Pastor Tom added, “We’re excited that these projects will benefit the community in and around Sudbury. MCC has served this community since 1640 and remains committed to that mission.”
The campaign will continue to solicit pledges until February 27.
Memorial Congregational Church of Sudbury (MCC) is a congregation of the United Church of Christ committed to progressive Christian faith and public service. MCC is an open and affirming community that welcomes everyone, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, ability, or financial circumstance. Through worship, education, outreach, and partnerships in the wider community, MCC seeks to live out its faith by working for justice, compassion, and the common good in Sudbury and beyond.

Upcoming Events at 19 Carter - A Nonprofit and Unique Gathering Place in Berlin, MA
19 Carter Street, Berlin

Weekly Events: Suggested donation $5

Monday: A Politics-Free Tea Time 2 - 4pm
Turn off your TV and stop by for 2 hours of pleasant tea and pleasantries, pastries with good company, and no politics!
Tuesday: Armchair Meditation 8 - 8:30am
Wednesday: Coffee Hour 9am - 12pm
Wednesday: Office Hours with Melissa (Director of the Berlin COA) 10 – 11am (Every 1st and 3rd Wednesday)
Wednesday: Old Time Music Jam 11am – 1pm (every 2nd and 4th Wednesday)
Wednesday: Irish Session 7 - 10pm
Thursday: Afternoon Games 2 - 4pm
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 – 12pm

Visit 19Carter.org for tickets, registration + more info!

FEBRUARY 15-21, 2026

Sunday, February 15, 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

Monday, February 16 | We are open on President's Day!

Tuesday, February 17, 2:15pm | Book Club: While Justice Sleeps by Stacey Abrams
Join 19 Carter's Book Club! All are welcome to stop by and join the discussion. For more info email Ann Ribbens: annri1951@yahoo.com. Suggested donation: $5

Tuesday, February 17, 7pm | Jazz Ensemble Workshop
We'll analyze, discuss and listen to various different jazz charts and improvise together as an ensemble! Class time will be split between instruction and playing.
Schedule:  6 two-hour sessions. Tuesdays:  7:00pm – 9:00pm.  Dates: Feb. 17, March 3, March 17, March 31, April 14, April 28
Cost: $150 for 6 sessions (Practical Music Theory book included). Scholarships available - if price is a barrier, call 978-415-0014 for more information. Learn more & register at 19Carter.org.

Friday, February 20, 6:30pm | Movie Night: Fantasia 2000
Tickets: $15 (includes pizza, popcorn, and salad!) Reserve tickets at 19Carter.org. Reservations required by 3:00 pm on the day of screening. Sponsored by Cordelia's Farm & Berlin’s Council on Aging.

Divorce Support Group by Remote Meeting

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

Fresh Start Furniture Bank
Www.freshstartfurniturebank.org

 Last Saturday was another bitterly cold day in Hudson; four hearty donors showed up and brought donations for our furniture bank - thank you!!  Most of our scheduled clients showed up to pick out and pick up furniture and furnishings for their new homes.
     At present we have only two rugs to give to clients so if you have extra rugs in good condition, please bring them to us.   We accept furniture and household items on Saturday mornings from 8:30-10:30 and non-furniture items also on Tuesday and Thursday mornings from 9:00-Noon. Check the link above for our location and lists of what we do and do not accept.  Donations do not need to be new but they do need to be in good condition (if you would not give it to a good friend, don’t give it to us!)
     Besides rugs, we are very low on bath towels and hand towels, bath mats, shower curtains, queen size sheets and COMFORTERS!!  Baby, it’s COLD outside!
     Also, we need roasting pans, baking pans, pie plates, serving bowls and platters and drinking glasses.
     Our website has more information on how to help; the green DONATE button will take you to a drop-down list showing Donate Items, Donate Funds, Shop Wishlists, Run a Drive and Donation receipts.
     Thank you for your help; Keep warm and safe!

Sculpt This Space
a Call for Art to Massachusetts sculptors

The West Concord Cultural District Committee is launching a new project.  After sponsoring murals, sidewalk decals, the Poetry Phone, the painting of signal boxes and Porchfest, we are issuing a Call for Art for our first sculpture project.  The winning piece will be on display for one year (with the option to be renewed) at Junction Park, which is near the corner of Main Street and Commonwealth Avenue.  Junction Park is steps away from the West Concord MBTA rail stop and beside the path of the Bruce Freeman Rail Trail.  With gardens tended by the local Green Thumbs gardeners and benches that invite walkers and riders to stop and rest, we hope that the sculpture will reflect the love of nature and the peace it brings while also inviting people to enter the park and our cultural district.
The Call for Art is open to all Massachusetts artists aged 18 and over, working individually or in teams.  The deadline for applications is April 3, with the intention that installation will be completed by late summer.  The artist will receive a $4000 stipend.  For project guidelines and application, please go to https://tinyurl.com/West-Concord-Sculpture.
Littleton susan harvey

Littleton's Susan Harvey to Speak on New England’s Economic Ties to theTransatlantic Slave Trade

Susan Harvey is a direct descendant of the Morse family, first settlers of Newbury in1635. Her interest in learning about the effects of the transatlantic slave trade on Newburyport and Massachusetts stems from her teaching United States History at Littleton High School in Littleton, MA, where she also resides. The research she conducted at the Newburyport Public Library Archival Center represents the core material used for her master's thesis in history from Fitchburg State University: Slavery in Massachusetts: A descendant of early settlers investigates the connections in Newburyport, Massachusetts.

Mrs. Harvey believes we have been asking the wrong questions about slavery in New England because we had no slave plantations here as existed in the southern states. It is our economic ties to the transatlantic slave trade that implicates New England in the monumental tragedy that took the lives of millions of human beings and, in doing so, formed the basis of America's economy. She will discuss the ways in which New England facilitated and benefitted from the slave trade and how the trade led to the racism in America today.

As she approached the topic of northern slavery, her initial questions were: was my family involved in the slave trade, and if so, how? These are questions that people all over New England are beginning to ask themselves as new information comes to light and new scholarship on the topic of northern slavery is published.

Talk to be held Saturday, February 14, 11AM, in the Vestry at First Church Unitarian,19 Foster Street, Littleton, MA. To be followed by a  Bring Your Own Lunch. Sponsored by the Women's Alliance of First Church Unitarian, Littleton

Become a Tutor of English

Have you ever thought about tutoring someone in English?  Most people who decide to become tutors are thinking of the good it can do, helping others become more proficient in English and better able to cope with employment, landlords, schools or the medical profession.  But then they discover the rewards, the satisfaction that comes as progress is made and a relationship develops that enriches both learner and tutor.  Tutors often speak of their pleasure in learning about another culture and their greater appreciation of the challenges facing those who are adapting to ours.

Because of the constant demand for tutoring, all available tutors are now working with students, and the next tutor-training course has been scheduled.  ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) program directors Ginny Steel and Jane Albert are currently enrolling prospective tutors for the five-session course that starts on March 9.  The class will meet on five consecutive Monday mornings, 9-12.  The first four classes will meet virtually, using Zoom, and the last one will be in person, in the Wayland library.

No prior knowledge of a foreign language is needed, just an openness to other cultures and the desire to share your knowledge of English.  The training is free, although it is necessary to purchase a textbook for about $40.

Tutors will be prepared to work with their learners either remotely, as we often do now, or in person, as is sometimes possible. Tutors now are using Skype, FaceTime, Zoom, telephone and email as they “meet” with their learners and enjoy both success and personal connection.

For more information or to enroll in the tutor-training course, you can phone Ginny Steel at 508-358-7517 or email her at virginia@thesteels.com.