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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mallory Wire
Division Director
The Jason Foundation, Inc.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sawyer Hill EcoVillage observes environmental holiday by reducing, reusing

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

MARLBOROUGH MEN Who Fought IN THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The repertoire includes:

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

 

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

Presenting a sixth summer of outdoor music, 19 Carter will offer eight fabulous
concerts taking place Saturday evenings from 7 - 9 pm from June 20th to August 15th
(excluding July 4th) at 19 Carter Street, Berlin, MA. Tickets are available now at
19Carter.org – $175 for a Summer Pass; individual tickets $25 in advance or $30 at
the door, $5 for students and FREE for kids.

The concert series offers an array of marvelous musicians presenting a range of genres
spanning from bluegrass to jazz to African music & dance and more! See the full
lineup below:

June 20th – Southern Rail (Bluegrass)
June 27th – Swing 440 (Gypsy Jazz)
July 11th – Crocodile River Music (African Music & Dance)
July 18th – Moe Dixon w/ Seth Asser & Gary Brown (Folk/Blues/Country)
July 25th – Nolan Slate Sextet (Jazz)
August 1st – Mark Russell & Friends (Rock/Pop/Blues/Jazz)
August 8th – Rioflow Trio (Latin-infused Jazz/Salsa)
August 15th – Lori Diamond & Fred Abatelli with special guest Anelise (Folk/Gospel/Soul)

19 Carter is partnering with local breweries and wineries for select concerts. These
onsite partners include Clover Road Brewing Company of Hudson; Dirigible Brewing
Company of Littleton; and IEMMALLO Wine of Ashland.

This year’s summer concert series is sponsored by Clinton Savings Bank, North
Brook Alpaca Farm, Cordelia’s Farm, Golden Skep Farm, the Berlin and Bolton
Cultural Councils (local agencies funded by Mass Cultural Council, a state agency)
and S. Elaine McDonald from REMAX Executive Realty.

For more information, check out our website at 19Carter.org or email us directly at
info@19carter.org. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook: @19CarterCommunity

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

 

Oh Saturday, May 9th, at 1:00pm, First United Methodist Church United Women of Faith, is hosting it Annual Ladies Tea.   All mothers and those who “have been like a mother”, are invited to spend a delightful afternoon, enjoying tea and light refreshments while watching a live performance presented by the Delvena Theater Company.

“THIRTEEN THINGS ABOUT ED CARPOLLOTI”

The Delvena Theatre Company will be presenting “Thirteen Things About Ed CarpolottI” for the Hudson Women’s Club at the First United Church, 34 Felton Street, Hudson.

“Thirteen Things About Ed Carpolloti” is a play about the widow of a wheeler-dealer contractor, who discovers that her husband, Ed, has left her in debt to the banks, her family and the mob.  As she struggles to escape her creditors and understand how her husband could have left her in such pain and doubt, a mysterious list of “Thirteen Things” embarrassing to Ed is offered to her if she can come up with $1 million in two days.  Then an intriguing web of events enter into this amusing and touching story with a surprise ending!  

Actress, Lynne Moulton, will be featured in this one-woman show.  Lynne has performed several roles for Delvena Theatre including her IRNE nominated Martha in Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf? and Sissy in Piece of My Heart and also for numerous other theatre companies in the New England area.  She received her acting training at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art under the direction of Sir Robert Palmer and at Trinity Rep Conservatory.  
The Delvena Theatre Company was founded in 1992 and has performed at various venues, most often at the Boston Center for the Arts.  The company was nominated for five Independent Reviewers of New England awards.  Its production of 'Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?' was on Theatre Mirror's Best List for acting, directing and production.  Presentations of 'Anna Weiss' and 'Beyond Therapy' were included on Theatre Mirror's best play list and 'Blue Heart' was placed on Aisle Say's best list.
First United Methodist Church is located over the hill off the Hudson Rotary at 34 Felton Street.

 

Massachusetts Breast Cancer Coalition (MBCC) invites you to participate in the 2026 Against the Tide Swim, Run, Walk to support breast cancer prevention!
The 34th Annual Hopkinton event will take place at DCR’s Hopkinton State Park in Hopkinton, MA on June 20th, 2026. The following week, the 27th Annual Cape event will be held at DCR’s Nickerson State Park in Brewster, MA on June 27th, 2026.  
In-person events include USATF-Course-Certified 5K and 10K runs, USMS-Sanctioned 1-mile swim, 1-mile recreational and competitive swims, ½-mile recreational swim, and a 3-mile fitness walk.
If you are unable to join us in person, participate from wherever you are in virtual Against the Tide between June 20th and June 27th. 
In-person participants will receive an event t-shirt and goodie bag. Prizes will be awarded for the in-person top swim and run finishers, as well as for the highest fundraising team and the three highest fundraising individuals.
“I’m excited to see the incredible energy that participants bring to the 2026 Against the Tide events,” said Cheryl Osimo, MBCC’s Executive Director. “Each year, this event reminds us how powerful our community can be when we come together for prevention. Whether you join us in Hopkinton, on Cape Cod, or virtually, please know that your participation truly makes an impact.”
Against the Tide can be enjoyed by adults and children of all ages and abilities. To register, create or join a team, and to donate, go to mbcc.org/against-the-tide. You can also register in person the morning of the event.
The in-person registration fee is $40 per participant per event.  The virtual registration fee is $20 per person for one or multiple events.  
Against the Tide is a major fundraising event for MBCC, whose mission has been dedicated to preventing environmental causes of breast cancer through community education, research, advocacy, and changes to public policy since its founding in 1991. MBCC’s free online educational materials and webinars are made possible through fundraising events and the generosity of donors. 

 

DEVENS, MA — April 22, 2026 — Freedom’s Way National Heritage Area (FWNHA) announces the return of the Hidden Treasures Festival of Nature, Culture & History, a month-long, collaborative celebration offering 101+ free events and activities throughout May in 45 communities within the region.

Hidden Treasures showcases the people, places, stories, and creative traditions that define this nationally designated heritage area. Local partners—including museums, libraries, historical societies, arts organizations, land trusts, and other community groups—host free public programs that highlight a
“hidden treasure” in their community.

From guided nature walks, exhibitions and open houses at historic sites to performances, talks, and
hands-on workshops, Hidden Treasures offers opportunities for residents and visitors of all ages to
discover meaningful places and inspiring stories—many hiding in plain sight.

The 2026 festival also aligns with ongoing Revolution 250 commemorations, highlighting the region’s
central role in the founding of the nation while connecting those stories to the landscapes and communities that still shape daily life today.

“Hidden Treasures is an invitation to slow down, explore, and see familiar places with fresh eyes,” said
Patrice Todisco, FWNHA Executive Director. “By working with local partners across the region, we’re
making it easy for people to experience the history, culture, and natural beauty that make this Heritage Area such a special place to live, work, and visit.”

All Hidden Treasures events and activities are free and open to the public. Offerings are searchable by date, town, and theme through FWNHA’s online calendar, interactive map, and free mobile app, Explore Freedom’s Way—making it easy to plan a self-guided adventure throughout the month.
A full schedule of events and activities is available at FreedomsWay.org/HTF.

FWNHA works in partnership with the National Park Service to protect and promote the shared natural,
cultural, and historical resources of the 45 communities it serves. The 2026 Hidden Treasures Festival is sponsored in part by Rockland Trust Bank.

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

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

Groton Grange #7 invites you to a concert with Trusting Fate. It's in their DNA, going on twenty years,
hundreds of tunes both original and cover, multiple instruments apiece, three lead vocals with effortless
harmony, versatile bass, always a switch up parade through the genres, and more fun playing together
for our loyal followers than the law should allow - all meld into a tasty combination. This will be on
Saturday night May 30 at 7:00 till 10 pm at Historic Grange Hall, 80 Champney Street.

Suggested donation at the door is $10.00 per person. Made possible by a grant from Town of Groton
Trust Funds. Parking allowed only on the Grange side of Champney St.

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Sudbury Valley Trustees (SVT), a nonprofit organization that conserves land in 36 communities, is designing an innovative Nature Play Area at its Wolbach Farm property in Sudbury. The Nature Play Area will provide a safe, free, and inviting space for children and caretakers of all abilities to enjoy nature together.
To ensure the play area meets the needs of area residents, SVT is seeking input from the community about its design. The public is invited to a Community Input Forum about the Nature Play Area on Wednesday, May 6, from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. This town-hall style event will be held in the Wolbach Barn at 18 Wolbach Road in Sudbury.
“At SVT, we believe it is important for everyone to feel welcome in nature,” said Davnet Conway, SVT Executive Director. “We plan to create a safe space where all children of varying abilities can enjoy playing and exploring in a natural environment.”
She continued, “We have ambitious plans for the Nature Play Area, and it’s essential that we incorporate input from community members. Whether you’re a parent, a caregiver, an educator, or simply someone who cares about connecting kids of all abilities with the outdoors, we want to hear your ideas,”

During the Community Input Forum, SVT staff will introduce the concept for the Nature Play Area; gather ideas, hopes, and concerns from the community; and invite input on features, accessibility, educational installations, and more.
The Nature Play Area will be adjacent to the new accessible All Persons’ Trail and Picnic Grove that SVT is installing at Wolbach Farm. When the entire project is completed, SVT expects the property will be a destination spot for those seeking an accessible space to explore nature, enjoy fresh air, participate in events, and relax with friends and family.

More information about SVT and the Community Input Forum can be found at svtweb.org/forum.

(Concord, MA) Starting May 1, Defense of Democracy, a non-profit dedicated to protecting public education and the right to read, is proud to announce the launch of its 2nd Annual Teacher Thank-A-Thon. This month-long national campaign encourages community members to attend local school board meetings for one simple purpose: to publicly thank educators for their dedication to students and their commitment to inclusive education.
This year’s event is hosted in partnership with prominent education advocate and social media influencer Reads with Rachel, whose platform reaches hundreds of thousands of viewers across TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram.
“Our educators are on the front lines every day, defending our children’s right to read and ensuring that every student — regardless of their background — feels seen and valued,” said Karen Svoboda, Executive Director of Defense of Democracy. “The Thank-A-Thon is about changing the temperature in the room. We are replacing conflict with radical gratitude and showing our teachers that the 'silent majority' truly has their backs.”
Now in its second year, the Teacher Thank-A-Thon has grown into a powerful national movement. In 2025, the event saw participation in more than 20 states, resulting in hundreds of messages of support.
For more information on the Teacher Thank-A-Thon or to register for the event, please visit www.DefenseofDemocracy.org.

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

Public speaking is a powerful skill that can transform lives, instill confidence and enable self-expression. Recognizing this potential, a volunteer program invites mentors to help incarcerated individuals in Shirley and Gardner to develop public speaking skills.
Speaking confidently can be a transformative tool for people rebuilding their lives. It empowers them to articulate their thoughts, share their stories, and build confidence. By practicing effective communication, people improve their prospects for employment and reduce the likelihood of recidivism.
Mentors bring expertise, encouragement, and a fresh perspective to individuals who may feel isolated or discouraged. As a mentor, you will:

• Guide and Support: Help participants craft their speeches, offering guidance on structure, clarity, and delivery.
• Provide Feedback: Offer recommendations for improvement to help participants improve their public speaking skills.
• Inspire Confidence: Encourage self-expression and build self-esteem by creating a supportive learning environment.

Volunteering offers personal rewards because contributing to someone's personal growth and witnessing their transformation can be deeply satisfying. Mentoring hones your leadership, communication, and teaching skills. You take part in encouraging people to build a new life different from their life before incarceration.
If you have a passion for mentorship, a willingness to learn, a sense of humor and patience, consider joining this volunteer program which is similar to Toastmasters. The best way to determine if prison volunteering is for you is to visit our program. One memorable evening will inform you if the program is right for you.
Email susan dot tordella at G mail to set up a brief phone call. The next step is a short application for background check by the Department of Corrections [DOC], and then a visit to our program. Volunteers who commit to 2-3 nights a month will attend a DOC training session by Zoom. 

Tuesday was a beautiful sunny day at Fresh Start and the donors were waiting for us when we arrived. More people are getting word of the great work we do here, helping people in need to furnish their homes.
     At present, we are greatly in need of blankets and comforters, also drinking glasses, couches and sofas, shower curtains, and fitted queen size sheets .  We also love to receive gift cards from target, Amazon, or Job Lot to give to our clients for extra things they may need.
     Please take a look at our website above for our location and hours of operation. We accept furniture donations on Saturday mornings from 8:30 to 10:30am as well as non-furniture items. Household items, like linens, may be brought in on Tuesday and Thursday mornings from nine to noon.
     Spread the word and help us to keep helping others!

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

 

 

Volunteers are sought to mentors a public speaking program in a prison in Shirley. Volunteers must be comfortable speaking in front of a group, willing to enter a prison with a team, and able to commit to two to four visits a month on a weeknight.
To explore prison volunteering, you can make one visit to a prison Toastmasters program, following a brief background check. You will know immediately if prison volunteering is for you, no obligation. This profound, memorable volunteer opportunity provides a connection beyond class, race and education.
Have a look at https://tinyurl.com/MAprisonvolunteer. For more information, email susan dot tordella at g mail dot c o m to set up a brief phone call.

Editor- the gmail address is purposefully scrambled to prevent fishing.  TYVM
 

 

In honor of Community College Month, Middlesex Community College is highlighting an outstanding student’s MCC experience in his own words. Business student Heet Shah, from India and now living in Lowell, is an active member of the college community who is taking advantage of the many opportunities and experiences Middlesex offers that he believes will make a positive impact on his future.
I chose to start my education at Middlesex Community College during a major transition in my life. I had just moved to the United States from India and was adjusting to a completely new environment, academic system, and way of life. MCC made that transition manageable. It was close to home, and at the time, I did not have a car, so even walking a few miles to campus never felt like a barrier.
Financially and logistically, it was also the right decision. The availability of free tuition and the MassTransfer pathway gave me a clear starting point while keeping long-term opportunities open. From the beginning, I approached MCC as a place where I would fully take advantage of every opportunity available.
That mindset quickly turned into action. One of the biggest impacts MCC has had on me is the opportunities it opened beyond the classroom. Through MCC, I traveled and gained exposure to environments I had never experienced before. I visited New York City and explored the financial district, attended the Two-Year Bridge Symposium where I engaged with firms like EY and KPMG, and participated in the MIT PATH fintech conference in Atlanta.
I also competed at DECA conferences, including traveling to Kentucky, where I applied my knowledge in real-world settings. These experiences gave me exposure and confidence beyond a traditional classroom.
Alongside these experiences, I focused on building academic and professional skills. I worked as a bank teller at a local bank, developing attention to detail and customer service skills, while also working late-night shifts at Bowlero during my early transition period.
On campus, I served as an Academic Centers for Enrichment (ACE) tutor and contributed to the CircleIn platform, supporting students while engaging with Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based learning tools. This led to my involvement in AI initiatives through the MIT PATH collaboration, where I worked with MCC Assistant Dean Peter Shea and Professor Vikram Sharma on projects exploring the intersection of AI and education. I also completed certifications in fintech, machine learning, and financial systems, and will continue this learning through the Massachusetts Municipal Finance Fellowship in Summer 2026.
My involvement in student organizations has been a major part of my journey. As Treasurer of the Business and Economics Club, I helped grow the organization into one of the most active clubs on campus. While my role focused on financial management, I also contributed to organizing events and supporting operations.
Through DECA, I took on a coordinator role, managing budgets, mentoring students, and organizing preparation sessions and competitions. I also co-founded the AI Club to create opportunities for students to explore emerging technologies. In addition, I organized professional development workshops, invited guest speakers, and collaborated with faculty and external professionals to create opportunities for students.
These efforts have been recognized through several accomplishments. I earned a gold award in Corporate Finance at the DECA regional competition and was selected as a semifinalist for the Jack Kent Cooke Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship. I have maintained a 4.0 GPA, been on the Dean’s List every semester, and am part of the Commonwealth Honors Program and Phi Theta Kappa. I was also a part of the “I Am MCC” campaign, highlighting student experiences and impact. I have also been nominated for multiple commencement-related awards and advanced to the final stages of selection for the Celebrations Speaker.
After graduating from MCC, I plan to transfer to a four-year university to continue my education in finance, potentially combining it with data science. I have already been accepted into University of Massachusetts Amherst and University of California Irvine, and I am awaiting additional decisions.
My long-term goal is to begin in investment banking, pursue graduate studies, and eventually work in quantitative finance and fintech. At the same time, I want my success to go beyond personal growth and contribute back to the communities that supported me.
More than anything, MCC has given me a strong foundation, a support system, and a sense of direction. I am especially grateful for mentors like Professor Vikram Sharma, along with many others who believed in me and pushed me to grow. MCC has given me exposure, confidence, and opportunities that would have taken me much longer to find on my own.
As I move forward, I will always carry this experience with me. MCC is not just where I started, it is what made everything that comes next possible.