All Souls and Samhain
FPC Sunday Service Oct. 27

First Parish Church of Stow & Acton (FPC), Unitarian Universalist, will hold a service on “All Souls and Samhain.” As the fall turns to winter, FPC’s minister, the Rev. Dr. Cynthia L. Landrum, will remember the losses of our community this year and learn how the traditions of All Souls and All Saints are tied to the pagan Samhain. The service takes place both in person in the sanctuary and virtually on Oct. 27 at 10 a.m. The Open House will be held in Fellowship Hall and will be in person only. Masking is optional. Child care for the service only is available for ages 3 and under, and children over 3 are welcomed to join religious education classes. For information about those classes, contact FPC Director of Religious Education Rayla D. Baldwin-Mattson at dre@fpc-stow-acton.org. To enter the virtual room, go to tinyurl.com/22-23fpc. FPC warmly welcomes gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender people. The church is located at 353 Great Rd., Stow. Its facilities are wheelchair accessible. For more information, visit www.fpc-stow-acton.org.

Guest Table Community Dinner

 
Guest Table is a community dinner that takes place on the second Friday of each month at First Parish Church of Stow & Acton (FPC). The next dinner will take place on Nov. 8. It will begin at 5:30 p.m., with doors opening at 5 p.m. All are welcome! There’s no charge for dinner, but donations are gratefully accepted. FPC is a nut-free location. FPC is located at 353 Great Road, Stow. Its facilities are wheelchair accessible. When parking, please keep a clear path for emergency vehicles; do not block the driveway around the front of the sanctuary; park only on the 117 side of Commons Rd.; and do not block access to the back of the building. Thank you! This program is supported in part by grants from the Stow Community Chest, Nashoba Valley Rotary, and the Acton-Boxborough United Way. Guest Table is also grateful for the consistent support it receives from the Stow Council on Aging and the Stow Food Pantry, as well as the support from so many individuals who donate and volunteer.
Oct 25 smack dabs

Good-Time Swing from
The Smack Dabs on Nov. 16

Stow’s New Revival Coffeehouse will open its season on Nov. 16 with the good-time swing blues music of the 1930s performed by The Smack Dabs. The Dabs features the songs of Tampa Red, Big Bill Broonzy, The Harlem Hamfats, and many other artists from the swing era. This delightful and timeless genre features a rich variety of musical styles, ranging from mournful blues to joyful celebrations, setting the stage for incredible solo and group improvisations and delighting audiences and dancers alike. The concert takes place at First Parish Church of Stow & Acton, 353 Great Rd., Stow. Doors open at 7pm. and the concert begins at 7:30pm. Tickets are $20 in advance at Tiny.cc/SmackDabs and $25 at the door. For questions, call 978-274-2593 or email coffeehouse@fpc-stow-acton.org. FPC is a nut-free location. Its facilities are wheelchair accessible.

Small Works Art Exhibit at The Lunenburg Library

The Lunenburg Public Library is once again hosting the annual Small Works Art Exhibit this fall and holiday season. This year’s exhibit will open on Saturday, November 16, 2024, in the Wallace Community Room, and remain up until Thursday, January 2, 2025. Artists in Central Massachusetts are encouraged to submit up to three works of art, each under 11”square, by the Friday, November 15th deadline. Handouts with the submission guidelines can be picked up at the library’s front desk. All submissions should be dropped off at the library before the building closes at 6:00 pm on Friday, November 15th to be juried by the Library Director. To celebrate the exhibit installation, visitors are invited to the exhibit opening reception between noon and 2:00 pm on Saturday, November 16th. Guests are also welcome to view the artwork any time during the library’s operating hours, unless the room is in use for an event or meeting. The library asks artists to price their works for sale under $100 – making them wonderful holiday gifts that support local artists and your local library! If you would like more information, please contact Muir Haman at 978-582-4140 ext. 15 or email atmhaman@lunenburgma.gov

Skylight Astronomical Society, Inc. Presents:

A Star Watch at the Stow Minute Man Airfield
Saturday, November 9th from 6:00 PM until 8:30 PM
Rain date: Sunday, November 10th
Well, we’re definitely into the fall season! SAS members will set up their telescopes for guest viewing. This Star Watch has a wonderful show, featuring glorious Saturn with near edge-on rings, Venus if you come early, Jupiter if you stay late, and, of course, the original Terminator on the Moon all night long! See the galaxies of Pegasus and Andromeda, as well as a host of colorful double stars! In conjunction with visual scopes, we will also have a digital imaging system showing some of the fainter deep sky objects.
Scary masks are not required but will be available. If you have COVID-like symptoms or have been in contact with someone ill, we ask that you refrain from attending.
In case of bad weather, a cancellation notice will be posted on our website www.sasobservatory.org by 3:00 PM the day of our event. If we do cancel on Saturday, we will try again the next night (Sunday night), so stay tuned to our website for updates.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR for 2 upcoming SFCOA events!

On Saturday, November 2nd from 9 am to 12 pm you can shop local, get a bargain and support Stow’s senior residents at our November Fair.  That morning you will find an expanded selection of items from our Gift Shop, Thrift Shop and a Resale Shop.   The Gift Shop offers many unique hand-crafted items made by Stow residents who want to support our Stow seniors. The Gift Shop also offers a variety of other items for sale including seasonal and “Stow” things. The Thrift Shop sells clothing, shoes, bags, and jewelry donated by our community. Shop new, like-new, and gently used clothing and accessories. The Resale Shop will offer too many items to list individually but you will find a variety of home decor, household items, games, puzzles, books, electronics (e.g. laptops), and more!
On Saturday, December 7th from 10 am to 2 pm you can leave with your arms full and a smile on your face at the Second Chance Holiday Sale. Shop new & used holiday items at very reduced prices! Check out our baked goods for your holiday treats! Music from 10 am-12 pm by Matteo Faso, local pianist! Santa plans to visit too! And new this year will be a silent auction from10 am to 1 pm.
Both events will be held at the Pompo Community Center, 509 Great Road, in Stow.  Visit our website at https://stowfriendsofthecoa.org/ or email us at StowFriendsCOA@gmail.com.

Flavors of Bedford Nov. 3

The 24th Flavors of Bedford takes place from 4 to 6 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 3 at Middlesex Community College, 591 Springs Rd. Flavors of Bedford is a festive, fun food sampling event where local restaurants and guests gather for an afternoon of food, spirits, and raffle prizes to help support the local community.
There will be a variety of offerings from local restaurant favorites such as Tashan Bedford, Holi Bedford, Bedford Cupcakes, The Residence at Bedford, Prince Street Café & Bakery, Jersey Mike’s Subs, and Red Heat Tavern. This event is organized by the Bedford Chamber of Commerce with a portion of the proceeds going to the Bedford Education Foundation (BEF), a volunteer organization promoting classroom innovation and empowering teachers and students to meet the growing challenges of the 21st century.
Ticketing and capacity is limited, so purchase early. Tickets for the event may be purchased in advance through the flavorsofbedford.org website. Family and senior discounts are available online. For tickets and to see the community sponsors, participating restaurants, and raffle donors, please visit flavorsofbedford.org or contact the Bedford Chamber of Commerce at bcoc@bedfordchamber.org.
Oct 25 mcc transfer fair

MCC to Host Transfer Fairs to Help Students Explore Next Steps


For individuals of all ages and stages in their lives, Middlesex Community College offers a strong starting point for continuing their education and entering the workforce. To introduce students to different four-year college and universities, Middlesex is hosting transfer fairs on both the Lowell and Bedford campuses in October.“We encourage our students to explore the many options available to them and to begin planning early for their next steps after graduating,” said Jane Fain, MCC’s Coordinator of Transfer Affairs. “Our transfer fairs help students gain important admissions information on potential schools and start developing their plan. We hold fairs in both the Fall and Spring semesters because having these conversations as soon as possible while at MCC help students avoid unwanted surprises or roadblocks once they’re ready to transfer.”During each fair, students have opportunities to meet with admissions representatives from a number of institutions. They can learn about varying four-year school’s offerings and requirements for transferring after they graduate from MCC. This year’s fairs will welcome more than 40 colleges and universities.Admissions representatives are experts on their school’s information and a resource to MCC students as theyexplore their options, according to Fain. Meeting with the representatives helps students get a better sense of how selective and competitive institutions are, as well as know important deadlines and scholarship information.MCC helps students transfer to four-year colleges and universities across New England and nationwide each year. With a number of articulation agreements and MassTransfer, MCC makes the transfer process as easy as possible. By starting at Middlesex, students can save thousands on tuition costs by completing their general education requirements before attending a four-year school. At MCC, students get early exposure to their field of interest,with courses, hands-on experiences, and networking opportunities in just the first two years of their academic journey. “At MCC, we strive to work with our students to develop and put into action a plan for their academic, transfer and career goals from day one of their time with us,” said Nick Cloutier, MCC’s Coordinator of Transfer. “We are excited for this year’s fairs to help our students meet with different institutions, explore their options, and find the best fit that meets their needs. You want to start the process as soon as possible!” The Lowell Transfer Fair will take place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Cowan Center Cafeteria on Wednesday, October 30. Students can attend the Bedford Transfer Fair from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Campus Center on Thursday, October 31. For more information, contact Fain at FainJ@middlesex.mass.edu.

Concord Orchestra Young Artists Competition

Auditions for the Concord Orchestra Young Artists Competition will be held on Wednesday and Thursday, February 5 & 6, 2025 at Concord Academy, 166 Main St., Concord, MA.  The winner will be the featured soloist at the Concord Orchestra's Concerts, on Saturday, May 31 and Sunday, June 1, 2025., and will receive the Ehlers Memorial Scholarship.  The second and third place finishers may be invited to perform a recital prior to these concerts.  The competition is open to high school and younger instrumental students, including pianists.  A complete concerto or other work suitable for performance with orchestra must be memorized for the audition.  Applications are due by January 17, 2025.   For more information and an application form, email:  jan.kinmonth@gmail.com with subject line “Concord Orchestra YA Competition.”    Applications can be made online, and additional information can also be found at https://www.concordorchestra.com/young-artist-concerto-competition.

Join us for our annual Pumpkin Festival!

Held at New England Nurseries, 216 Concord Road, Bedford
The event will take place on Saturday, October 26th, from 1 PM to 4 PM. There will be many free activities, including a Spooky Scavenger Hunt, Trick-or-Treating, Face Painting, Kids' Crafts, and more! We'll also have refreshments for purchase, a build-a-scarecrow station, and, of course... pumpkins!
Oct 25 holy family parish

Holiday Fair in Concord

Holy Family Parish, 10 am to 4 pm, November 1 & 2, Monument Hall, 62 Monument Square, Concord, MA. Free Admission. Featuring: Handmade crafts, ornaments, holiday items, scarves, hats, baby items, blankets. Gifts & re-gifts. Children’s toys, puzzles, games, books. Wreaths (pine cone, fabric, cork). Indoor plants. Jewelry. Gift books (all genres, hard cover). Food (baked goods, jams & salsas, “mixin a jar,” candy, vanilla, herbs). Raffle items (large themed baskets & gifts). Silent auction of special items (framed original oil painting, heirloom quality handmade Irish knit afghan, use of a vacation home, and a $200 restaurant gift card. Café from 10 am to 2 pm both days.

Local Residents Named to Simmons University Dean's List

The following local residents have been named to the 2024 spring semester dean's list at Simmons University in Boston.
* Alissa Campbell, Acton (01720)
* Bella Mojica, Acton (01720)
* Fran Servello, Acton (01720)
* Sonia Vader, Concord (01742)
* Carly Rieter, Maynard (01754)
* Charlotte Hogan, Sudbury (01776)
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.
Congratulations to all!!
Oct 25 folk festival

Folk Festival to be held in Littleton on November 9, 2024

First Church Unitarian in Littleton will hold a Folk Festival on Saturday, November 9th at 7:00 p.m. at 19 Foster Street, Littleton.
The headlining artist is award-winning folk-blues-soul act The Sugarsnap Trio. You don't want to miss this talented young group! The Sugar Snap Trio features Collin Cope, harmonica and vocals; Chris Page, guitar and vocals; and Luke Hausermann, upright bass.
The opening artist is the popular Boston-based Sarah Levecque Band with their mixture of folk and blues and “Americana”. The band features singer-songwriter-guitarist Sarah Levecque; Peter Zarkadas, guitar and vocals; and Johnny Sciascia, upright bass.
There will be a brief intermission with refreshments. The evening will also include a “50/50 Raffle”.
A suggested donation is $25 per person at the door, but any donation in any amount is appreciated, and no one will be turned away. Tickets can be purchased in-advance for $20 per person at this link (as well as the option to watch the livestream of the concert): https://www.zeffy.com/ticketing/9d16ea6e-cb2b-4020-856a-0e26a4a1b747
Oct 18 trevor berens at fpc

Piano Concert: 200 Years of Women Composers

Pianist Trevor Berens presents a concert of music written by women, from1836 through 2005. The music is as varied as it is beautiful, from Clara Schumann’s early suite of short works inspired by the music of Chopin (“Soirées Musicales”) to Marti Epstein’s minimalist pieces written at the turn of this century (selections from “American Etudes”). Trevor will also be performing, in its entirety, Florence Price’s rarely heard set of four dances, “Dances in the Canebrakes”, as well as music by the early twentieth-century American composer, Amy Beach.The concert takes place on Sunday, Oct. 20, at 4 p.m., at First Parish Church of Stow & Acton, where Trevor is the accompanist. Tickets are available at the door and in advance at Eventbrite(tiny.cc/200Years) for a suggested donation of $5–$40. FPC is located at 353 Great Road, Stow. Its facilities are wheelchair accessible.

Something for Everyone! - Small Works & Holiday Marketplace

Come make your holiday shopping more meaningful by supporting local artists! Members of the Princeton Arts Society invite you to come to browse, shop, and enjoy hundreds of their fine, artisan-made items. Peruse creative, unique, yet affordable small wall art in many media, as well as tables overflowing with jewelry, cards, prints, ornaments, fabric items, original books, bags, ceramics, woodworking, and so much more! Don’t miss out on this amazing holiday arts extravaganza! Fridays, December 6 & 13, 6-8:00 PM Saturdays and Sundays, December 7 & 8 and 14 & 15, 10 AM-4 PM. Location: 206 Worcester Road, Princeton Senior & Community Center, Princeton MA. The Princeton Arts Society is a nonprofit organization promoting the arts in Central Massachusetts through programs, events, and shows.

Mental Health Course, in Person in Boxborough

Family to Family is a free, evidence-based, eight-session, weekly course from the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) for those who love someone living with a mental health condition. Topics include understanding the symptoms of mental health conditions, learning about treatments & therapies, practicing communication & problem-solving skills, creating a positive team approach, and self-care. Importantly, the course offers family members the invaluable opportunity of open conversation and mutual support in a stigma-free environment. The course will meet in person in Boxborough Mondays, November 11 to January 13, excluding holiday weeks, 6:30 pm to 9:00 pm. Additional information and registration: namicentralmiddlesex.org/newsletter/family-to-family-fall2024-boxborough.
Oct 18 trunk or treat

Trunk or Treat So Others Can Eat to Support Sudbury Food Pantry

First Parish of Sudbury invites all children ages 10 and under to wear their costumes and take part in our Fantastic & Fun 3rd Annual Trunk or Treat So Others Can Eat on Sunday, October 27, 2024, from 11:30 am to 12:30 pm. Collect candy, play games, and have lots of Ghoulish Fun!!

There is no fee to attend, but please bring a non-perishable food item to donate to our collection for the Sudbury Community Food Pantry.
The event will take place in the First Parish parking lot at 327 Concord Road, Sudbury, MA. Free parking is available across the street behind the Sudbury Town Hall. In the case of inclement weather, the event will take place inside.
For more information, please contact First Parish Director of Religious Education, Michelle Cote at redirector@fpsudbury.org.
First Parish of Sudbury (fpsdudbury.org), located in the center of historic Sudbury, is a diverse and welcoming community of spiritual seekers who strive to learn together and support one another as they celebrate life’s important moments and serve the larger community.

Nashoba Regional High School's Fall Pla

Kick off your holiday season this November with Nashoba Regional High School's performance of “A Christmas Carol”, November 22-24. This classic retelling of Ebenezer Scrooge's experience with the 3 ghosts is great for all ages. Be sure to purchase your tickets today! Performances are:
Friday, November 22nd at 7pm
Saturday, November 23rd at 7pm
Sunday, November 24th at 2pm
$14.00 Adult;$10.00 Child / Student / Senior
https://www.ticketstage.com/T/NFOD

St. John Pumpkin Fair-Free Event by St. John Lutheran Church, ELCA

16 Great Rd, Sudbury, MA
St. John's Pumpkin Patch invites you to our Pumpkin Fair on Saturday, October 19 from 1-3 PM. Come play carnival-style games and win prizes. Visit our Pumpkin Patch while you are at the fair. Proceeds benefit youth programs in our community. See less
Oct 18 kobe henro

The First TNVR Clinic in Northern Puerto Rico, will take place the weekend of March 22-23, 2025 and the Sudbury-based nonprofit is accepting donations and volunteers

Kobe Henro Pet Food Bank in partnership with Puerto Rican-based Miracles For Sato Rescue (MFSR) will be opening a pop-up Trap, Neuter, Vaccinate, Release (TNVR) clinic in Puerto Rico. Pippi’s Project, will be the first TNVR clinic in northern Puerto Rico, with its launch scheduled for the weekend of March 22-23, 2025 in Vega Alta, Puerto Rico. Helaine Block, founder of Kobe Henro commented, “In just under eight months, we have built a strong and determined team to help control the stray population (650,000 dogs/satos and 1,000,000 cats/gatos) on the island.” For additional information or to donate, please contact: Helaine Block at: info@kobehenro.org and donations via venmo @kobehenro. Checks can be mailed to: Kobe Henro, Inc. 100 Powder Mill Road – Suite 124, Acton, MA 01742
Oct 18 kitty angels


Annual Holiday Open House & Kitty Angels Weekend

Treasures Antiques, Collectables & MORE!, located at 106 Ponemah Road in Amherst,NH will be hosting their 34th Annual Holiday Open House and Kitty Angels Fundraising weekend on November 2nd and 3rd. Festivities for the weekend will run both days from 9AM till 4PM and includesHoliday inspired shopping, raffles and entertainment.This annual event has been a mainstay in the community since 1991 and features Kitty Angels, Inc. along with several live musical entertainers including: Wildwood, Jeff Damon, Roosta Gulla, Sunset Rhythm, ‘9 Strings’ with Dick Spencer and Dan Rodd and Side Effects! This Holiday and Fundraiser event is pet and kid friendly and will offer exceptional sales for all, inside and out. B’s Grumman Grub, offers an exceptional assortment of hot and cold food as well as several miscellaneous beverages. A petting zoo with horse and pony rides will be provided by Mapledell Farms and Trading Faces, LLC/Central Birch Art Studio a face painting, body art and air brushing professional, featuring a ‘paint and take’ activity for kids and adults alike. The weekend will also showcase some artists and artisans, crafters, professionals and specialty food vendors. Treasures will also be offering a number of fun and exciting raffles, with prizes donated by local and national businesses. These prizes will include a “hotel get-a-way,” a “2 tier cat tree” by ARUBACAT as well as other cat and dog related items, jewelry, specialty food packages, and a variety of extra cool and exciting prizes. Kitty Angels, Inc., a no-kill cat shelter is made up of all unpaid volunteers and is dedicated to rescuing stray and abandoned cats and furnishing them with treatment for injuries or other health issues. These cats are then placed into life-long, loving “forever homes” with compatible owners. All necessary steps are taken to ensure the wellbeing of the cats, including spaying and neutering and providing rabies, distemper and other necessary vaccinations. They are a non-profit, charitable corporation and all donations are fully tax-deductible with every penny of each donation going directly to the care of these cats. Please join Treasures and Kitty Angels, in friendship and the spirit of giving and sharing at the Holidays. For more information, visit www.TreasuresNH.com and www.KittyAngels.org
Learn More

DELIVERED RIGHT TO YOUR DOOR - Holiday WREATHS!

 
The holidays are coming and they'll be here before you know it!  In the spirit of being prepared, Troop 1 Stow Scouts will be running their annual wreath sale from now through Wednesday, November 6th.  The proceeds help Stow continue one of its finest youth programs, and are used for equipment purchases, camping trips and the many troop activities.  The holiday wreaths are beautiful natural evergreens, all with a red bow and available in 2 sizes:
* Standard wreaths (fits standard size door), undecorated ($21), or decorated ($25)
* Large  (40" outside diameter), undecorated ($60)
* Sponsor a veteran cemetery wreath ($17) to be placed in the stow cemeteries by volunteers
The scouts will NOT be going door to door so order NOW and your wreath will be DELIVERED right to your home!
You can order your wreaths online at www.troop1stow.net or by mailing a check to Troop 1 Stow, PO Box 75, Stow, MA 01775.
Your wreaths will start to be delivered during Thanksgiving week.  If you have any questions, please contact us by phone at 978-212-9175 or by email at wreath@troop1stow.net
Oct 11  mcc fall mini mester

MCC’s Mini-mester II Offers Second Chance to Take Classes


This Fall Middlesex Community College’s Fall 2024 Mini-mester II will kick off on Monday, October 28. A popular and convenient option, the accelerated, eight-week semester allows students to start their education sooner, fit moreclasses into their schedules, and finish their program faster. “Mini-mesters provide additional options for our students,” said Ashli Ree, MCC’s Professor and Program Coordinator, Fashion Merchandising. “For various reasons, not all students are ready to start at the beginning of a traditional 15-week semester. This is why I’m teaching a First Year Experience Course as part of Mini-mester II for students starting college for the first time in late October. Some students have shared that the format helps them focus more because of the shorter timeline. ”The accelerated eight-week Mini-mesters offer the same content, academic standards, and number of instructional hours as courses scheduled during the traditional 15-week semester. Students can earn transferable college credit while completing general education requirements. “While an eight-week course does include an intensive workload, students develop strong time management skills and pace themselves weekly while keeping up with the required readings and submitting course assignments and assessments assigned by their professor on the designated due dates,” said Nancy Pynchon, MCC’s Coordinator of the ECE Career Pathways Grant. “Successfully completing a Mini-mester course allows students the option to continue into the next semester and earn credits, so that they can reach their academic goals in a faster pace! ”Subjects taught as part of Mini-mester II include the arts and humanities, business, social science, and STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics). Classes may be offered on-campus, online, hybrid or hyflex. No matter your age or income, community college is now free in Massachusetts! The MassEducate and MassReconnect programs allow Massachusetts residents who have not yet earned a bachelor’s degree to attend MCC for free. This includes students taking classes as part of Mini-mester II. “Mini-mester classes are an excellent way to immerse yourself in one class at a time, while still allowing you to take more than one class per semester,” said Dr. Jennifer Bauer, MCC’s Chair of Communication, Art & Design.
MCC will host two Open Houses this Fall. A Bedford Open House will take place at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, October 29, while a Biotechnology and Health Open House will take place at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, November 6. Visit www.middlesex.mass.edu/registration/ or call 1-800-818-3434 for more information and to register. Middlesex Community College’s Fall 2024 Mini-mester II will kick off on Monday, October 28. A popular and convenient option, the accelerated, eight-week semester allows students to start their education sooner, fit more classes into their schedules, and finish their program faster.

Theatre III presents “Escape to Margaritaville”

Theatre III, 250 Central St., West Acton, will kick off its 2024-2025 season with the presentation of the musical “Escape to Margaritaville”, music and lyrics by Jimmy Buffett and book by Greg Garcia and Mike O'Malley, from Nov. 2nd through Nov. 16th.
Performances at the theatre will be at 8 p.m. on Nov. 2nd, Nov. 8th-9th, and Nov. 15th-16th, and at 2pm on Nov. 3rd and Nov. 10th.  Tickets are $27 for general admission and $24 for seniors, students and groups of ten or more.
The play is directed by Donna DeWitt (Chelmsford) with musical direction by E. Justin Simone (North Smithfield, RI) and choreography by Jill Tokac (Somerville), and is produced by Linda Minkoff (Stow). It stars Tedford Armistead (Acton), Emily Frey (Acton), Lali Haines (Weston), Jim Hunt (Fitchburg), Jake Lewis (Hudson), Cyrinah Morris (Chelmsford), Tom Simmons (Dunstable), and Jessica Woodard (North Billerica).
For information, email publicity@theatre3.org, and to buy tickets, visit https://www.theatre3.org.

South Acton Church Rummage & Bake Sale

Come One, Come All! The South Acton Church famous Rummage Sale is back!! Saturday, October 26, 2024 from 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM at 35 School Street in South Acton. The bargains will be Fabulous!
Upstairs, we’ll have delicious baked goods, scrumptious soups, veggie wraps, and beef and vegan chili --- perfect for lunch or take-out! Also, we’ll have our famous frozen entrees, terrific to keep in the freezer for a fast and healthy dinner. Downstairs will be all the deals! Clothes for all ages, housewares, toys, jewelry, and lots of special items, all at stunning bargain prices.
Come check us out!
Oct 11  robin putam

Westford Women’s Club will host a discussion on “Holiday Fraud Prevention” at their October 28th monthly meeting.


The holidays are right around the corner. Are you armed with vital information to keep yourself safe from scammers? The Westford Women’s Club welcomes you to a discussion on “Holiday Fraud Prevention,” led by Robin Putnam, Events & Outreach Manager for the Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation. Monday, October 28 at 6:30 p.m. at the Cameron Senior Center, 20 Pleasant Street, Westford. Visitors and prospective new members are encouraged to attend.
Discussion topics will include Black Friday shopping tips, return policies, defective merchandise, warranties, lost or stolen packages, gift certificates, credit card skimming devices and how to spot them, and identity theft and fraud prevention.
The Westford Women’s Club is comprised of women from Westford and the surrounding communities. For more info, contact: westfordwomensclub@gmail.com.  Visit us on Facebook. WWC is a member of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs (GFWC) www.GFWC.org and GFWC Massachusetts (GFWC MA) www.GFWCMA.org.

Thrifting Market (formerly Rummage Sale) at MCC

The Thrifting Market (formerly known as the Rummage Sale) will be open on Thursday, October 17 from 5-8, Friday October 18 from 9-5 and Saturday October 19 from 9-1 at Memorial Congregational Church in Sudbury. Gently used clothing, shoes, linens and other soft goods will be sold at rock bottom prices. Come and see our high quality clothing neatly sorted  and arranged on hangers and tables.
Memorial Congregational Church is located at 26 Concord Rd (across from the library) in Sudbury. For more information, office@mccsudbury.org or 978-443-3885.
Oct 11  nsb

Nashoba Symphonic Band presents “Of Thee I Sing”

The Nashoba Symphonic Band, under the direction of David Wayne Bailey, will present its first concert of the 2024-25 season, “Of Thee I Sing,” a program of American music on Sunday, November 3 at 3 p.m. in the auditorium of Nashoba Regional High School, route 117 in Bolton MA. Admission is free.
The concert includes several classics of American band literature, including American Overture for Band by Joseph Willcox Jenkins and Copland's iconic Lincoln Portrait, narrated by Lancaster selectman, Jason Allison. The major work on the program is Morton Gould's Symphony for Band “West Point.” The first movement of this work, Epitaphs, pays homage to American heroes; the second, Marches, is a free-for-all of military march styles. For march fans, the program includes Grafulla's Washington Grays and, of course, The Official West Point March, a medley of the academy's marches, hymns, glee club tunes and its alma mater.
Now in its ninth full season, the 90-piece concert band is comprised of musicians from 31 area communities, ranging in age from 14 to 80-something. Nashoba Symphonic Band is a program of the Nashoba Regional High School Friends of Music and is supported in part by funds from Ashby, Berlin, Bolton, Harvard, Lancaster, Littleton, Lunenburg, and Stow Cultural Councils, local agencies supported by Mass Cultural Council, a state agency. All Nashoba Symphonic Bands are free and open to the public.

Mental Health Course, in Person in Boxborough

Family to Family is a free, evidence-based, eight-session, weekly course from the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) for those who love someone living with a mental health condition. Topics include understanding the symptoms of mental health conditions, learning about treatments & therapies, practicing communication & problem-solving skills, creating a positive team approach, and self-care. Importantly, the course offers family members the invaluable opportunity of open conversation and mutual support in a stigma-free environment. The course will meet in person in Boxborough Mondays, November 11 to January 13, excluding holiday weeks, 6:30 pm to 9:00 pm. Additional information and registration: namicentralmiddlesex.org/newsletter/family-to-family-fall2024-boxborough.
Jacqueline jones


Concord Festival of Authors: Miller Award for Excellence in American History Winner Jacqueline Jones


Saturday, October 19, 7:00—9:00 PM
Goodwin Forum, Main Library, 129 Main Street, Concord, MA, 01742

The Friends of the Concord Free Public Library are thrilled to announce the winner of this year’s Ruth Ratner Miller Award for Excellence in American History: Concord resident Jacqueline Jones.
Join the Friends in this very special FREE program on Oct. 19 at 7 p.m. at the library.
Born in Delaware, Dr. Jones received a B.A. in 1970 from the University of Delaware and a Ph.D. in 1976 from the University of Wisconsin–Madison. She has held academic positions at Wellesley College, Brown University, and Brandeis University, among other institutions. She is Professor Emerita, Ellen C. Temple Chair in Women’s History, and Mastin Gentry White Professor of Southern History at the University of Texas at Austin. “I’m deeply honored to be the recipient of this year’s Miller Award and to join such an eminent group of past winners,” said Jones.” I hope we can all take inspiration from Ruth Ratner Miller’s belief that an understanding of history — no matter how difficult the issues it forces us to confront— is a civic duty that we as Americans share with one another.”
As an American social historian, Jones has authored several books, including most recently, No Right to an Honest Living: The Struggles of Boston's Black Workers in the Civil War Era (2023), winner of the 2024 Pulitzer Prize in History,  and Goddess of Anarchy: The Life and Times of Lucy Parsons (2017). She is also the author of A Dreadful Deceit: The Myth of Race from the Colonial Era to Obama’s America (2013). That book and Labor of Love, Labor of Sorrow: Black Women, Work and the Family from Slavery to the Present were finalists for the Pulitzer Prize; Labor of Love won the Bancroft Prize for 1986. Jones was awarded a MacArthur Fellowship as well as fellowships from the Ford Foundation, the Woodrow Wilson Institute, the American Council of Learned Societies.
Other works include Saving Savannah: The City and the Civil War, 1854-1872 (2008); Creek Walking: Growing Up in Delaware in the 1950s (2001); A Social History of the Laboring Classes from Colonial Times to the Present (1999);  American Work: Four Centuries of Black and White Labor (1998); The Dispossessed: America’s Underclasses from the Civil War to the Present (1993); and Soldiers of Light and Love: Northern Teachers and Georgia Blacks, 1865-1873 (1992).
About the Miller Award:
Established in 1998, the Miller Award is given each year in memory of Ruth Ratner Miller by her four children to honor the life of their mother, Ruth, who believed passionately that understanding history was not merely desirable but a civic and religious duty. Previous recipients of the award include Annette Gordon-Reed, Nathaniel Philbrick, David Hackett Fischer, Jill Lepore, Heather Cox Richardson, and Sean Wilentz, among other esteemed historians.
For more information on the Concord Festival of Authors, please visit www.concordfestivalofauthors.org

Annual Fall Book Sale

The Friends of the Hudson Public Library are having their annual Fall Book Sale on Saturday and Sunday, October 19 and 20.  The sale will be held at the Hudson Armory garage located at 35 Washington Street. They have a large selection of mystery, science fiction, cookbooks, history, hardcover and paperback fiction, children's, nonfiction books, audio books, DVDs, and CDs.
The Members only Preview is Saturday, October 19 from 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.  This is an opportunity to renew or or begin your membership. Yearly membership is $25.
The sale is open to everyone on Saturday, October 19 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., and Sunday, October 20 from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Cash and credit will be accepted.  We look forward to seeing you at the sale!

Mass Teen Choice Book Award Announces 2024 Winnersl

 
Over 1,100 teens in the Commonwealth have voted and the winning book for the third Massachusetts Teen Choice Book Award is the manga graphic novel Blue Lock Vol. 1 by Muneyuki Kaneshiro and Yusuke Nomura (Kodansha Comics, 2022).  The first runner-up is Rez Ball by Byron Graves (Heartdrum, 2023) and the second runner up is Just Do This One Thing for Me by Laura Zimmermann (Dutton Books for Young Readers, 2023).  The Massachusetts Teen Choice Book Award is the only award in the Bay State that invites students in grades 7-12 to vote for their top new books.  For more information, visit https://www.mateenchoicebook.org/home.
Teens chose these books for top honors from a list of nominees curated by a committee of public librarians, school library media specialists, and educators.  Teens were invited to read the titles during spring and summer and vote for their favorite books from September 1-20, 2024. 
Blue Lock, Vol. 1 by Kaneshiro and Nomura is the first in a series of manga novels and tells the story of Japan's football team struggling to regroup after a devastating loss at the 2018 World Cup. The Japan Football Union (JFU) decides to gather 300 of Japan's best young players to create an ace striker who can lead the team to victory. The JFU's solution is to put the players through a series of bizarre challenges in a high-tech colosseum called Blue Lock.
Rez Ball is the debut novel by indigenous author Byron Graves and tells the relatable, high-stakes story of a young athlete determined to play basketball like the hero his Ojibwe community needs him to be.
Just Do This One Thing for Me by Laura Zimmermann is the sometimes hilarious, sometimes heartbreaking story of rule-following daughter Drew.  When their mother disappears on the way to a New Year's Eve concert in Mexico and her schemes start unraveling, Drew is faced with a choice: follow the rules, do the responsible thing or walk away—alone—from her mother's mess.
“We are thrilled to announce this year’s Teen Choice Book Award winner and are so pleased that teens across our state responded so enthusiastically, creating social media content and submitting over 1,100 votes online and in local libraries and schools. It is our hope that this will encourage more teens in our state to read some of the best new fiction, non-fiction and graphic novels published for their age group,” said Suzanne Larson, committee chair and high school library media specialist at Seekonk High School in Seekonk, MA.
The Massachusetts Teen Choice Book Award is a cooperative project between the Massachusetts School Library Association (MSLA) and the Massachusetts Library Association (MLA) with support from Salem State University.  For more information on the award process, the selected titles and how to participate, please visit www.mateenchoicebook.org

Fall for Goldens Festival

Get ready to Fall for Goldens!! Join us at our Hudson, MA facility for our 2nd annual retriever-filled fall festival starring the lovable, adoptable dogs from Yankee Golden.
Saturday, October 19th, 11am-3pm
Yankee Golden Retriever Rescue, 110 Chapin Road, Hudson, MA
Here’s just a taste of what’s in store: Food Trucks, Swimming Dogs, Tennis Ball Toss, Photobooth, Kid’s Corner, Yankee Merch, Raffle Prizes & more exciting activities await. See you soon!

Semi-Annual Fall Clothing Swap

 
Sunday, November 10, 2024, 8:00 AM until 10:00 AM
Location: Parker Damon Building, Upper Parking Lot, 11 Charter Rd, Acton, MA  01720
Registration is not Required.
Donations accepted:
Clean, unstained baby/children's clothes size newborn to 10/Medium (NO socks, shoes, or underwear)
Gently used maternity clothes (NO undergarments)
Donation drop offs will be accepted at the following locations through Saturday, November 9. Please sort and label bags/boxes of clothes by size to help our volunteers!
47 Ethan Allen Dr. Acton
124 Great Rd. Acton
8 Heather Hill Rd. Acton
48 Washington Dr. Acton
62 Chester Rd. Boxborough
This is a FREE and PUBLIC event. Anyone can donate, and anyone can come "shop" at the event. Please be sustainable and bring your own shopping bag. This is a great opportunity to pass on hand-me-downs and help our neighbors! Any items remaining at the end of the event will be donated to local charities.
FOOD DRIVE: We will also host a food and diaper drive for the Acton Food Pantry during this swap. There is an urgent need for baby formula, baby food (jars, pouches, snacks & cereal), and diapers (especially size 5-6). Food drive donations will only be collected at the event on November 10. (Feel free to donate directly to the food pantry or via their Amazon wishlist if you cannot make it! https://www.actonfoodpantry.org/food)
Oct 11  lsco

Lincoln Sudbury Civic Orchestra Launches Chamber Music Concert Series

The Lincoln Sudbury Civic Orchestra (LSCO), in residence at the Lincoln-Sudbury Regional High School since1973, has created a chamber music initiative, where members of the orchestra combine in conductor-less groups to perform works in small ensembles, ranging from duos to 12-members.The LSCO Chamber Players will begin performing in the 2024-2025 season. Orchestra member Eric Hollander (viola) encouraged orchestra leadership to consider adding chamber music concerts to the regular orchestra calendar. Percussionist/timpanist Dave McLellan teamed up with Eric to organize a grassroots effort to form chamber ensembles from regular members of the orchestra. Since 1973, the LSCO has performed two concerts per year at the Lincoln Sudbury Regional High School in January and June. The group will now add at least two chamber music concerts per year, to take place in the fall and spring of each year.The LSCO Chamber Players make their debut Sunday November 3 at 3 PM at the Goodnow Library at 21 Concord Rd in Sudbury, MA. The library administration is very excited to host the debut concert: “With our history and longtime commitment to supporting music and the arts in Sudbury and surrounding communities, Goodnow Library is happy to welcome and host the Lincoln-Sudbury Civic Orchestra (LSCO) Chamber Players on November 3 for the premier performance of the orchestra’s new chamber music series”, says Assistant Director Karen Tobin. Administrator Douglas Grant, who will host the concert adds: “We expect this concert to be the start of a most successful and enjoyable collaboration between the LSCO and Goodnow Library!” The groups will perform music by J. S. Bach, Franz Schubert, Franz Joseph Haydn, Frederick Hofmeister, Spiros Exaras, and others. The Chamber Players will perform also at Bemis Hall, 15 Bedford Rd in Lincoln on Friday November 22 at 12:30 PM in a special program sponsored by the Lincoln Public Library, in collaboration with the Lincoln Council on Aging and Human Services. Admission is free at both concerts at the Goodnow Library and Bemis Hall, and both facilities are handicap accessible.

Donations Needed

Do you know what a furniture bank is?  Did you know that one is located in Hudson?  Look at our website to read about what we do, who we help and how we do it.  We collect donated furniture and furnishings and distribute it all at no charge to people in need who receive a referral from a social services agency.  We have helped thousands of families (from 36 countries) and we have kept more than 130,000 items out of the waste stream (landfills).  We are an all-volunteer operation and we love what we do!
At present we are very low on a lot of critical items:  Dining tables with 2+ chairs, upholstered chairs, headboards and bed frames, TV stands, microwave ovens, toasters and toaster ovens, all sizes of saucepans, baking pans (glass, metal, ceramic), loaf pans, roasting pans, cookie sheets, dish sets for 4+, drinking glasses & mugs, silverware (esp. table knives), serving platters & bowls, mixing bowls & colanders.  Also we need linens:  bath, hand & kitchen towels, pot holders, blankets, sheets & comforters (twin, full, queen).
Check our website for our hours of operation.  We are located at 16 Brent Drive, Hudson.  Donations are accepted on Tuesday and Thursday mornings from 9-noon for housewares, linens & dining tables.  Furniture plus all housewares are accepted on Saturday mornings from 8:30-10:30. www.freshstartfurniturebank.org.

Local Soprano and Flutist to Present a Free Classical Concert for All Ages

Local soprano Beth Sterling and flutist Jessica Smith are excited to present High Notes: An Interactive Concert for All Ages. This free concert will take place on Saturday, October 26th at 10:30am at the Maynard Public Library. Have you ever heard a flute sound like a train? What about someone singing just like a bird? High Notes presents a concert of classical music the whole family can enjoy! Presented in an engaging and interactive environment, people of all ages are welcome to move, dance, and enjoy the music in their own way. "I'm so excited to be a part of High Notes! This performance is such a special opportunity to share the beauty of classical vocal and flute music in a fun, engaging way for all ages. I can't wait to see the joy and curiosity this performance will inspire in both kids and adults,” said Sterling. The event is free and open to the public. Music lovers of any age are invited to join in the fun! This program is funded in part by a grant from the Maynard Cultural Council, a local agency which is supported by the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency.

Become an Effective Speaker

Do you want to advocate new activities at meetings?
Do you want to make an effective presentation at a Town Meeting or Public Hearing?
Do you want to effectively share your experience and knowledge with professional organizations of various community clubs?
Did you know that joining and participating in Toastmasters will enable you to succeed in any or all of these situations?
The Isaac Davis Toastmasters Club invites you to attend an open house meeting on Monday, October 28, from 7:00 to 8:30 at the Acton Public Safety Facility EOC, 371 Main Street Acton, MA. Members will host a meeting to show you Toastmasters in action. Isaac Davis Toastmasters has been serving Acton and the surrounding towns for 52 years. For more information, contact Daniel Livingston, VP Membership, at vpm-2193@toastmastersclubs.org

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 Wednesday evenings 6:00-9:00. Class dates are October 23 and 30, and November 6, 13 and 20. 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 send email to esol@waylandlibrary.org.
Craftfair2024flyer

NVTHSF Craft Fair & Bake Sale

Saturday, November 23, 10am-3pm
Free Admission
Learn More

October is Bullying Prevention Month

 
We have all heard the stories of bullied teens taking their own lives. Suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death for youth ages 10-18. It is also the 5th leading cause of death for children ages 6-12, and, in many cases, bullying can be a catalyst. Studies have shown that bullying aggravates depression and increases suicide risk for both the victim and the perpetrator. When kids who are at risk for suicide because of depression or other mental health issues experience bullying, the results can be disastrous.
The Youth Risk Behavior Survey takes place annually every two years in middle and high schools nationwide. The latest results on bullying have come out for 2023. 21% of female students and 12% of male students reported cyberbullying in the past year. 22% of females and 17% of males endured bullying at school. Nearly 3 in 10 LGBTQ+ students encountered bullying at school.
Cyberbullying happens via technology and can be just as devastating as in-person bullying. It is repetitive aggressive behavior that targets a victim. Often, this can lead a victim to a feeling of negative self-worth. Since the bullies are usually anonymous, the victim has no idea of who is behind all the threats. This bullying can create low self-esteem, loneliness, and a drop in school grades.
Parents can help prevent cyberbullying by opening a dialogue about it, limiting data access, knowing their children’s passwords, and enforcing internet rules. New research done by The Journal of Child and Family Studies identifies that certain positive parenting practices have a profound effect on both school bullying and cyberbullying. This includes a surplus of warmth, autonomy/support, and structure.
If your child has been the victim of bullying and you have noticed a change in their mental health as a result, get help now. The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is a free resource available 24 hours a day. Call or text 988 if you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis.
The Jason Foundation is another valuable resource. JFI is dedicated to the awareness and prevention of youth suicide through educational programs that equip youth, parents, educators, and the community with the tools and resources to identify and assist at-risk youth. Visit www.jasonfoundation.com to learn more about youth suicide, the warning signs, and how you can make a difference.

43rd Annual Conant Artisan and Craft Fair

Looking for unique, handmade treasures? Don't miss the 43rd annual Conant Artisan and Craft Fair! This popular event will take place on Sunday, October 20th, from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM at the Luther Conant Elementary School grounds at 80 Taylor Road in Acton.
Discover a wide variety of handcrafted items from talented local artisans and crafters. From jewelry and pottery to paintings and textiles, there's something for everyone. Enjoy delicious homemade baked goods while you shop and support a great cause.
Proceeds from the fair will benefit the Acton Conant Elementary PTO, helping to fund important programs and school support initiatives.
Mark your calendars and join us for this wonderful community event!

“Soup’s On”

First United Methodist Church (FUMC) of Hudson is hosting our fifth annual “Soup’s On” event, on Saturday, October 12, 2024, at 5:00 pm. We will be serving several different homemade soups, stews, chowders, and/or chili recipes, plus a variety of delicious desserts! We are asking for FREE WILL donations. Any funds we raise will go toward paying the Church’s heating bills. Please come and savor the different flavors that will be served. We hope that you will join us! Anyone familiar with the dinners held at FUMC will know that we have some very talented cooks! Invite your family or come solo and tell friends and neighbors to come by for this tasty event. We look forward to seeing you. First United Methodist Church is located off the Hudson Rotary, over the hill, at 34 Felton Street. More information is available at 978-562-2932 or on the church’s website: www.hudsonfumc.org.

"Wise Parenting Practices: Raising Children with
Mutual Respect and Cooperation",
a 3-Part Workshop Series

 
This parent education series takes place in Carlisle on Wednesday evenings October 9, 16 and 23 from 7:00 to 8:30 PM. There is no fee due to a final generous grant from CHNA15, received by the Carlisle Board of Health. This series is ideal for parents of children ages 3 to 10 years old. (Parents from any towns in the region are welcome to participate, space permitting.)
Description: Weaving strategies and guidance from the Positive Discipline approach to parenting, drawn from the research of Dr. Alfred Adler, along with insights from Dr. Haim Ginott, Dr. Dan Siegel and other giants in parenting education, this 3-part workshop series creates a better understanding of:
- How to Respond to Challenging Behavior With Encouragement, while Maintaining Firmness, Dignity and Respect - How to Build a Relationship With Your Children Based on Connection, Cooperation and Mutual Respect
- How to Foster Resiliency and Support the Building of Authentic Self-Esteem Parents will learn practical techniques to use right away in their own relationships with their children (as well as with the adults in their lives - it's all about healthy, respectful relationships!).
Our Presenter: Sally Quinn Reed, M.S., brings over 20 years experience in Parenting Education and Support services. She is a certified Positive Discipline trainer, a Parenting Journey facilitator and a grandmother (and caregiver) of two young children. Pre-registration is required by emailing communityallianceforchildren@gmail.com and noting "Registration for Oct series" in the subject line of the email. Spaces are limited so sign up soon!
Please be willing to commit to all three sessions. Location details will be shared upon registration.
Fpc pie sale

Fresh Baked Apple Pies at FPC Through Oct. 13

The annual apple pie sale at First Parish Church of Stow & Acton (FPC) continues on Saturdays and Sundays through Sunday, Oct. 13. Sales will begin at 10 a.m. and will close when the day’s pies are sold, or at 1 p.m., whichever comes first. FPC’s homemade 3 lb. pies are $20 each. The apple pie stand is located at the front of the church grounds, at 353 Great Road, Stow. For more information, visit www.fpc-stow-acton.org. Apples for the pies have been generously donated by Shelburne Farm of Stow.

Beer in the Barn Pop-up Party!

Celebrate the fall season at this pop-up party to support SVT on Saturday, October 5, from 7:00 to 9:00 pm at The Barn at Wolbach Farm (18 Wolbach Road, Sudbury).
Enjoy good local beer from Amory’s Tomb Brewing Company paired with generous appetizers made by The Hyve using locally sourced ingredients and including gluten-free and dairy-free options.
Cash bar with an additional selection of wine, beer, gluten-free beers, and soft drinks are also available. (One complimentary beer or tasting trio is included with price of a ticket.)
Lively music by the Red Horse Old-time Duo will add to an atmosphere of fun and festivity.
Purchase your tickets today! $50 per person. http://svtweb.org/beer-barn-2024.

Save the Date - Trunk or Treat

Free and Open to the Public
Saturday, October 26th, 1:00-3:00pm
The Learning Experience Marlborough parking lot!
70 Simarano Drive, Marlborough

MSEPAC Free Sensory Friendly Fall Festival

Marlborough SEPAC (Marlborough Parent Advisory Council) invites you to our Free Sensory Friendly Fall Festival on Saturday, October 19th from 1-3pm at Kane Elementary School.
Come decorate pumpkins, play games, make crafts, win raffle prizes and eat yummy donuts!
Celebrate the season in a calm, supportive space for our families.
Organizations supporting children from ages 2-22 will share information and resources at the event.
Registration opens on October 1st (to get a count for pumpkins and supplies).
We look forward to seeing you soon.
M-SEPAC supports children with special needs in the Marlborough community.

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 forSpeakers of Other Languages) program directors Ginny Steel and Jane Albert are currently enrolling prospective tutors for the Wednesday evenings 6:00-9:00. Class dates are October 23 and 30, and November 6, 13 and 20. 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 Steelat 508-358-7517 or send email to esol@waylandlibrary.org.

Learn to Communicate

The Isaac Davis Toastmasters Club invites you to attend an open house meeting on Monday, October 28, from 7:00 to 8:30 at the Acton Public Safety Facility EOC, 371 Main Street Acton, MA. Members will host a meeting to show you Toastmasters in action. Isaac Davis Toastmasters has been serving Acton and the surrounding towns for 52 years. Member enrollment is open to our community.Toastmasters participation will give you the skills and confidence you need to effectively express yourself in any situation. Whether you are a tenured manager, student, young professional, someone who is looking to advance your career or preparing to make an impact in your community, Toastmasters is the most efficient, supportive, enjoyable and affordable way of gaining great communication skills. By learning to effectively formulate and express your ideas, you open an entirely new world of possibilities. You’ll improve your interpersonal communication and be more persuasive and confident when giving speeches. What’s in it for you? Toastmasters is a proven way to become a better communicator:• Improve public speaking skills• Practice writing speeches and presenting in a group setting• Build leadership skills• Provide positive and constructive feedback to others. Attendance virtually will be available if you pre-register your name and email address with Daniel Livingston, VP Membership, at vpm-2193@toastmastersclubs.org