Action Unlimited

Westford LWV to host evening with Town Manager Kristen Las

The League of Women Voters of Westford’s next Civic Social is an evening with Westford’s Town Manager, Kristen Las. On Wednesday, November 20, at 7:30 p.m., join the League at Westford CAT, 487 Groton Road, to get an update on the town and ask questions in an informal environment.
Civic Socials are the League’s monthly get-togethers, open to everyone.
The League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan, grassroots organization of people of all genders, ages, and backgrounds. The League’s goals are to encourage active and informed participation in government, increase understanding of major public policy issues, and influence public policy through education and advocacy. The League does not support or oppose any candidate or political party. For more information about the League in Westford, go to lwv.westford.org.

Heritage Chorale Fall Concert

Experience a musical adventure on Sunday, November 24, 4pm, at St. Mark's School, 25 Marlboro Rd., Southborough! This first concert of the Heritage Chorale's 88th season--A Glorious Journey: Vienna & Paris--not only features the music of two style-defining cities, but also music that takes us from classical to modern periods. Professional instrumentalists and vocal soloists will join the Chorale. Visit heritagechorale.org for concert details and to purchase advance tickets from the Chorale's Online Box Office.

Baroque Brilliance -- Sounds of Stow Fall Concert

Join the Sounds of Stow Chorus & Orchestra for their 46th season opening concert: “Baroque Brilliance” on November 24, 2024, at 2pm. The concert will be held at a local and state-of-the-art venue, Maynard High School, 1 Tiger Drive in Maynard, MA. Under the direction of Barbara Jones, the chorus and orchestra open with Giovanni Gabrieli’s stunning “Jubilate Deo” for double chorus accompanied by a brass ensemble of four trumpets, four trombones. This opener raises the curtain on music by three great Baroque composers, all born in 1685.
Scarlatti -- “Iste confessor”, “Cibavit eos”; Handel -- delightful and sensuous selections from “Solomon”; and Bach – moving motet “DerGerechte kommt um” and beloved “Jesu Joy of Man’s Desiring” – some selections will be familiar, others less so, but all are interesting and rewarding. In addition, our instrumentalists: brass, winds and strings, will enhance the program with selections that will be sure to enhance this delightful program. For further information and tickets, please visit www.soundsofstow.org or email info@soundsofstow.org. Sounds of Stow is supported in part by the Massachusetts Cultural Council as administered by the local cultural councils of Stow, Acton-Boxborough, Bolton, Carlisle and Hudson.

Bedford’s New Song Music Series Welcomes Folk-Rock Artist Catie Curtis on November 16

The New Song Music Series in Bedford, MA, launches its inaugural season on Saturday, November 16, with a concert by veteran folk-rock artist Catie Curtis. Known for her gorgeous voice and socially conscious songwriting, Curtis engages audiences with an optimistic mix of insightful wit and pitch-perfect vocals. Curtis has toured full-time in the United States and Europe for over 25 years, releasing 14 recordings and collaborating with some of the finest musicians and producers in the country. Her songs have been featured in films and TV shows including Grey’s Anatomy. She has also performed at the White House several times. New Song is located in the Reed Room of Bedford’s Town Hall – an intimate 100-seat venue in the heart of historic Bedford, MA. This volunteer initiative of the Bedford Cultural District showcases musical styles ranging from contemporary folk to bluegrass to Americana and more.
Tickets for the November 16 concert are $25 and may be purchased at the door or via our website, www.newsongbedford.org. Doors open at 7:00 and the music begins at 7:30. The address is 10 Mudge Way, Bedford, MA. A selection of sweet treats and beverages will be available at the event. Visit our website for information about New Song and future concerts. Contact New Song Music Series info@newsongbedford.org.

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 art 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.

Theater Organ Concert

Sunday November 17, 2:30pm. Shanklin Music Hall, 130 Sandy Pond Road, Groton.
Dave Wickerham will perform at the Wurlitzer Pipe Organ. The Shanklin Music Hall was built specifically for the Wurlitzer to give the audience an unparalleled concert experience. Tickets are available online at www.WurlitzerPops.org. The cost is $25 for adults.

Wampanoag Nation Singers and Dancers

The Wampanoag Nation Singers and Dancers will perform at the Old Chelmsford Garrison House on Sunday, November 10th, at 2:00 P.M. They will perform eastern social songs accompanied by a water drum and handcrafted rattles. Dressed in traditional clothing, the singers and dancers encourage audience participation. The Old Chelmsford Garrison House is an historical house museum located at 105 Garrison Road in Chelmsford. A donation of $20 per car will be collected at the gate. The gate will open at 1:30 and the performance will begin at 2:00. The Garrison House is located at 105 Garrison Road, off Route 110. For more information, call 978-256-8832, visit our Facebook page, or www.garrisonhouse.org. The Wampanoag Nation website is wampanoagnationsingersanddancers.com.

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.

Veterans Day Ceremony in Bedford

Bedford's Veterans Day Ceremony will be held on Monday, Nov. 11 starting at noon at Veterans Memorial Park, 160 Great Road (next to Bedford Funeral Home). Join us in honoring our veterans who served in war and in peacetime. Attendees can remember special veterans by placing flags on the Veterans Memorial Wreath of Honor. Contact Paul Purchia (781-275-2464) for more information. Note: In case of heavy rains, the outside ceremony will be canceled and moved to the Bedford High School auditorium starting at 12.

Veterans Day in Boxborough

The Town of Boxborough cordially invites our Town Veterans and all residents to attend the 2024 Veterans’ Day Ceremony on Monday, November 11th promptly at 11 am. This will take place at the Veterans Tribute Memorial on the grounds of the Sargent Memorial Library, 427 Massachusetts Avenue. Parking is available at the Library lot and also at the Blanchard Memorial School lot; using the bridge walkway to get to the Site. Veterans’ Day recognizes the commitment and dedication of Boxborough’s Veterans and their families. We look forward to seeing you there so that we can honor all of those who have served in our Armed Forces.

Veterans Day in Acton

The Town of Acton’s Veteran Services Department, as well as the Celebrations and Ceremonies Committee, invite you to join us for this year’s Veterans Day Ceremony. The ceremony will be observed on Monday, November 11th at 11am. Please park behind Town Hall or behind the Fire Station. The ceremony will take place outdoors (weather permitting) by the Isaac Davis monument on the town common. In the event of inclement weather, we will move the ceremony to the Faulkner room inside town hall. All are encouraged to attend. We hope you can join us in paying reverence to our nations’ heroes.

Let the Ghoul Times Roll-3rd Annual Halloween Event to Benefit Project Kompass

October 26, 2024 from 6pm-11pm
Princeton Station, 147 Princeton Street, North Chelmsford, 01863
Join us for a thrilling night of rock n’ roll and revelry at Project Kompass’ Annual Halloween Event.
Dive into the spooky spirit and dance the night away as we raise funds for a great cause. The event offers a unique blend of entertainment featuring a devilish DJ, a tarot card reader, and a not-so-spooky photographer. Appetizers, a scrumptious dinner, and indulgent desserts are all included in your ticket for just $60.00!
Don’t miss the chance to win fabulous raffle baskets and showcase your creativity in our costume contest! Whether you’re the most original, scariest, or overall best-dressed the audience will decide who takes home the coveted prize.
Get ready to have a howling good time with Halloween enthusiasts from Lowell, Chelmsford, and neighboring towns. This spine-tingling extravaganza is perfect for guests ages 18-99 looking for a night to remember.
Secure your spot now. Tickets available on AllEvents.

Howl-Ween Happening at the Wash Spaw

Saturday, October 26, 2024 at 10:00am
313 Littleton Road, Chelmsford
Come by the Wash Spaw Self Dog Wash for some Howl-Ween Happening from 10am-2pm
(Self service wash will be open 12:30 after events).
10-12pm Trunk & Treat for the Kiddies (in parking lot)
10-12pm Pet Howl-Ween Costume Contest/Win Free Wash.
Treats for kids & pets!

News from the J.V. Fletcher Library, 50 Main St., Westford, MA

978-692-5555, http://www.westfordlibrary.org.
Unless otherwise noted, the following programs are made possible by the Friends of the Library.

Director’s Corner: We have added more titles to Hoopla Flex! Our Hoopla digital collection is growing! In addition to the 10 hoopla Instant borrows you receive each month with your Library card, Westford residents now will have 5 hoopla Flex Borrows to use on bestselling titles specially marked hoopla Flex eBooks and Audiobooks. With Hoopla Flex titles you will find new and popular e-books and audiobooks that you can borrow now or place on hold to read later. This collection is just for Westford cardholders, so the wait time for new titles should be significantly less than other digital collections shared with the consortium. This collection will grow over time. Not familiar with Hoopla? With Hoopla, patrons can read, watch, and listen to more than 950,000 eBooks, digital audiobooks, comics, movies, or TV shows that are available to stream or download. Sign up for Hoopla for free with a Westford Library card at hoopladigital.com or download the Hoopla app from your favorite app store.

Monday Mystery Club: Monday, October 28 at 2:00 p.m. in the Mary Atwood Room. Wake up your week with a stimulating book club discussion! We’ll meet in the Mary Atwood Room to discuss Calico by Lee Goldberg. Print copies are available at the Main Desk.

Spooky Walk: Tuesday October 29th from 5:30-7:30 p.m. You will travel from the children’s room around the outside of the library collecting clues to solve riddles on your answer sheet. Once you have solved the riddles, make your way back to the Children’s room to turn in your answers and collect a prize bag. Activity starts in the Children's room where you will pick up a pencil, flashlight and answer sheet. No registration required. Drop -in anytime between 5:30-7:30 to participate.

Adult Nonfiction Book Club: Tuesday, November 5 at 6:30 p.m. – We’ll meet in the downstairs Meeting Room to discuss UFO: The Inside Story of the U.S. Government's Search for Alien Life Here and Out There by Garret M. Graff. Copies are available at Main Desk. Email Charles Schweppe at cschweppe@westfordma.gov for details!

Virtual Job Search Help for 50 & Over – Networking: Wednesday, November 6, 9:30 -11:30 a.m. The Massachusetts Library Collaborative's 50+ Job Seekers Group meets biweekly the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of the month, from 9:30- 11:30 a.m., via Zoom. If you are unemployed and actively looking, underemployed, seeking a new career direction, re-entering the job market after a long employment gap, or recently retired and looking for your "Encore Career", this networking group program is perfect for you! Registration required.

Animanga Club: Wednesday, November 6 at 6:00 p.m. Come to the meeting room towatch anime, draw characters, browse new manga and eat fun snacks. Open to kids in grade 6 and up. Drop-ins welcome.

Drop-in Storytimes! Wiggle Words: Every Tuesday in the Meeting Room until November 12 from 10:30-11:00 a.m. This weekly drop-in storytime is for kids ages 2 to 4 and their caregivers. Join us as we share music, movement, and really FUN books for the younger kids in this program.

Mother Goose: Every Wednesday in the Meeting Room until November 13 from 10:30-11:15 a.m. Mother Goose is an interactive story time for children ages 0 and up with their caregivers. We include books, songs, a field trip, fun movements, and of course, dancing! Hang out for a few minutes afterwards and make some new friends or migrate up to the children's room for more play.

Steve Zocchi in Concert

Steve Zocchi, pianist, will be performing a solo piano concert on Sunday November 17th at 2:00 pm at Harvard Unitarian Universalist Church, 9 Ayer Road, Harvard, MA. An afternoon of piano and levity; Steve always brings his engaging sense of humor to the stage. Works by Bach, Haydn, Mozart, Chopin. The program will also include wild improvisations and original compositions. Suggested donation is $20/adults, $10 children 12 and under. Proceeds to benefit HUUC. Steve Zocchi is a pianist, composer, and music teacher from the Boston area. He received his BA in Piano Performance from UMass Lowell, studying with Juanita Tsu. Steve’s primary musical focus is on J.S.Bach, Mozart, and Improvisation. Steve studied Jazz Piano theory with the legendary Steve Hunt. He also studied Organ with the late Dr. John Ogasapian and served as assistant-organist at St. Anne's Church in Lowell from 1997-1999. Steve then served as Music Minister at St. John's Episcopal Church in Lowell from 2000-2014. He was Music Director at First Parish Unitarian Universalist Church in Chelmsford MA, 2014-2021. He is presently Music Director at Harvard Unitarian Universalist Church. He served as president of the Greater Lowell Music Teachers Association from 2006 to 2012 and was awarded 'Music Teacher of the Year 2010' by Massachusetts Music Teachers Association. Steve maintains a thriving music studio in Groton where he teaches piano and guitar. Steve is known for his eclectic piano concerts juxtaposing Classical, Jazz and Original Compositions. A recording artist, Mr. Zocchi’s latest release 'Piano Works and Play' as well as his previous CD 'Compositions and Improvisations’ include both music composed in the Classical tradition as well as improvised music in several genres. Steve lives with his wife, pianist/teacher/super-hero Meghan Zocchi, and their three young sons in Groton, MA.

South Acton Church Rummage & Bake Sale

Come One, Come All! The South Acton Church famous fall 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!

Autumn Junk in the Trunk

Saturday, November 2, 2024, 9:30-11 a.m.
Abbot School, 25 Depot St, Westford, MA
Junk in the Trunk is a FREE community gifting event. This open-air exchange allows residents to declutter their homes, discover hidden gems, connect with fellow residents, and contribute to a more sustainable lifestyle.
9:30 am: Set out unwanted household items. Please do not arrive earlier than 9:30 to keep the parking lot organized.
10:00 am: Mingle, freely give away goods, and choose items gifted from others.
11:00 am: Load items for donation on the New England Clothing Recycling truck.
This is not a drop off event, you must remain on site until items are gifted or donated.
For questions, contact lauragranato15@gmail.com.
Sponsored by the Westford Rotary. Supported by the Westford Recycling Commission.

Lui Collins Stops by the PCA

Lui Collins will be stopping by the Parish Center for the Arts, 10 Lincoln Street, Westford for a concert on November 8, 2024 at 7:30pm as part of the PCA’s Coffeehouse Series, sponsored by Enterprise Bank/Westford. Tickets range from $15-$25. Cabaret seating. Doors open 7pm for the 7:30pm show. At the PCA, you are welcome to bring your own food and drinks to complete your evening. For more information, visit www.pcawestford.org. Parties of 4 or more, please call (978) 692-6333 if you’d like to reserve a table.
Hartford Courant describes the renowned Folk singer/songwriter Lui Collins as “…one of New England’s clearest and most distinctive folk voices, with unusually piercing lyrical insight…” She has been performing, writing and recording for over 45 years, her early Philo and Green Linnet recordings earning international acclaim and establishing her as a respected voice in the folk world. Lui has shared the stage with such notables as Pete Seeger, Bonnie Raitt, Stan Rogers, Dar Williams and John Gorka. Guitarist Dave van Ronk called Collins “one of the best guitarist-arrangers I have heard in years.” Added Canadian Folk icon Stan Rogers, “Lui sings my songs better than I do.” From playful 4-string arrangements of some favorite original songs, to the fabulous jazz chords in American standards and Bossa nova, Lui translates her rich and complex guitar arrangements onto her tenor ukulele to create something unexpected and delightful. For more information about Lui Collins, visit her online at www.luicollins.net.
Perhaps the Champlain Valley Folk Festival Newsletter said it best, “Lui has a gentle way of capturing the hearts of her audience and having what amounts to a musical conversation with them during her performances… No one weaves a spell quite like she can.” Don’t miss your opportunity to catch Lui Collins at the Parish Center for the Arts on November 8. Tickets are available directly online at https://parisharts.square.site/product/11-8-24-lui-collins/188, or for more information, visit pcawestford.org, or call (978) 692-6333.

Welcome to the Monster Mash Farm Bash!

Join us on Sat, Oct 26, 2024, at 5:30 PM for a spooktacular evening at Good Pickin' Farm. Get ready for a fun night, music, and dancing under the stars!
Wear your best costume and don't forget to bring your friends and family for a night you won't forget! Get ready to boogie at the Monster Mash Farm Bash! 16 and under are FREE with a general admission ticket! www.goodpickinfarm.com
5 Gould Rd, Westford, MA, 01886

Community Harvest Supper at United Methodist Church of Westford

Held on November 2nd, 2024
Join us for a delicious Thanksgiving dinner that you don't have to prepare! Our Annual Community Harvest Supper includes turkey and fixings, vegetables, potatoes and gravy, topped off by assorted homemade pies. Choose from two seating times: 5:00 pm or 6:00 pm. Tickets will be available at the door on the day of the dinner: Adults ($12.00), Children 3-12 ($6.00), and Children Under 3 (Free). "A community supper to support the community." All proceeds benefit local community outreach through UMC of Westford. Parking is available at the church, and our building is accessible for people with disabilities. You will find us at 10 Church Street in Westford. For more information, visit www.umcw.org or Facebook.com/UMCWestford.

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

You can recycle your hairbrush – really!

And not just your hairbrush – you can also recycle electronic hair tools and appliances, old manual toothbrushes, empty toothpaste tubes, empty toner and ink cartridges, and other surprising items listed here: https://tinyurl.com/littletonmarecycles We have four collection points in the area: the Acton or Littleton Donelan’s grocery store, the Reuben Hoar Library in Littleton, and if you have a Littleton transfer sticker, there’s a bin there, too. Details and pictures on website.
Terracycle gives points for each item which translate into cash for non-profits such as 4-H, schools, and libraries. This recycling stream helps fund the Acton C.R.A.F.T. 4-H club’s community service activities. Still have questions? Email littletonma.recycles@gmail.com

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

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.

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.

14th Annual Bedford Chamber of Commerce Trunk or Treat – Friday, Oct. 25, 2024

Bedford's 14th annual Trunk or Treat will be hosted by the Bedford Chamber of Commerce on Friday, Oct. 25 from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. at the Whole Foods parking lot on 175 Great Rd, Bedford MA.
More than 25 chamber members and community groups will be participating with many being dressed for the occasion in their favorite Halloween costumes and with creatively decorated trunks. Treaters will enjoy a safe, family-fun environment going from trunk to trunk for candy, goodies, and giveaways.
This is a free event and is open to all families with young children. Everyone is encouraged to stop by. Costumes encouraged, but not required.

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.

Domestic Violence Event

12th Annual Craft Fair and Bake Sale

Saturday, November 23rd, 10:00am-3:00pm
FREE Admission
Stop by for local craft vendors and baked goods! Nashoba Valley Technical High School
100 Littleton Road, Westford, MA
Presented by The NVTHS Foundation

Recycling Event-All Towns Invited

Join us for a day of decluttering, community, and environmental action. We're accepting a wide range of electronics, including TVs, computers, and more. Help reduce e-waste and learn about sustainable practices.
St. William's Church Tewksbury is hosting an Electronics Recycling Event from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, October 26. The collection event will be held in the church parking lot at 1351 Main Street, Tewksbury.
All electronics, appliances, items with a plug and/or batteries, as well as bicycles in any condition will be accepted and recycled for a small cost as follows:
Cost to You:
• $5 each for Computers, Laptops, Video Game Consoles, DVD Players, VCR’s, Small Printers, Radios, Alarm Clocks, Speakers, Table Lamps, Fans, Hair Dryers, Curling Irons, Projectors, Power Tools, Drills, Cameras, Clocks, Trophies, Frying Pans and Cookware, Holiday Lights, Other Small Electronics.
• $10 each for Vacuum Cleaners/Roomba, Toaster Ovens, Ceiling Fans, Floor Lamps, Air Fryers, Electric Grills, Hot Plates, Small Radiators, Keyboard Pianos, Coffee Makers, Ice Makers, Sewing Machines, Small Household Appliances
• $20 each for Flat Screen Computer Monitors, Microwaves, Dorm Sized Refrigerators, Dehumidifiers, Air Conditioners, Artificial Christmas Trees, Water Coolers, Large Printers/Copiers, Leaf Blowers, Chainsaws, Heat Lamps, Heaters, Fire Extinguishers, Propane Tanks (Empty)
• $25 each for TVs up to 26,” CRT Monitors, Outdoor Grills, Snow Blowers, Lawn Mowers, Rototillers, Power Washers, Large Yard Equipment, Large Generators, Motors, Water Tanks.
• $30 each for TVs between 26” and 35,” Washing Machines, Dryers, Stoves, Dishwashers, Other Large Appliances, Treadmills, Exercise Equipment
• $35 each for TVs over 36,” Large Refrigerators, Ride-On Lawn Mowers.
• $40 each for Projection TVs
• NO CHARGE (Cash Donation Appreciated): Cell Phones, Bicycles in any condition, Video Game Media and Accessories, Wires, Cables, Chargers, Car Batteries, Household Batteries, VHS/DVD’s, Keyboards, Tablets.
When you arrive, please follow the cones and directions from the workers. Bring your vehicle as close to the truck or dumpster as possible. Feel free to remain in your vehicle, our workers will unload your items for you.
Residents from all towns and communities are welcome to recycle. The event will be rain or shine. Computer hard drives will be destroyed during the recycling process, but can be removed on-site at the event for an additional charge. Cash payment is preferred, but checks will be an acceptable form of payments over $30.
For more information or if you have additional questions, email GreenDayRecyclingMA@Gmail.com

The Boxborough Antique Show and Sal

Sunday~ October 20, 2024, 10:00 am
45 of the Best Exhibitors from throughout New England, specializing in Authentic American Antiques, Folk Art, Ceramics, Art, Early Glassware, Primitives, Dolls, Textiles, Sterling, & Jewelry.
Admission $8 per person
Boxborough Regency Hotel 242 Adams Place in Boxborough, MA. Just off 495, Exit #75!

Winter Farmer’s Market

Weston Nurseries of Chelmsford, 160 Pine Hill Road
Saturdays, 10am-1pm
November 2nd-February 22nd
Entrance is free! Vendors set prices for their goods and services.

Fall Harvest 3rd Annual Sip & Shop

Saturday, October 26, 2024, 11am-3pm
Chelmsford-Lowell Elks
300 Littleton Road, Chelmsford, MA 01821
Join us for our 3rd annual Fall Harvest Sip & Shop! This event will feature 40 of the area’s best artisans and vendors. Heavenly Dogs Catering will be serving up some of their best foods! Hope to see you all there!

Divorce Support Group by Remote Meeting

Are you thinking of separating or going through the divorce process? The Metro-West Boston Divorce Support Group is a confidential peer-support group with no religious affiliation. Men and women from all towns are welcome. Our meetings had been every Thursday evening at 7 pm at the South Acton Congregational Church. Now we are continuing weekly on Thursday by remote videoconference. For more information, call Doreen 617-957-0838 or contact paulbaker01@verizon.net

Nashoba Regional High School's Fall Play

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

Pianist Jake Kinney performs Gershwin's Rhapsody in Blue

The Concord Band opens its 2024–25 season with a concert on Saturday, October 26, 7:00 pm at the 51 Walden Performing Arts Center in Concord, MA.
Music Director James O’Dell chose the theme "100th Anniversaries" in recognition of Geoge Gershwin’s composition and premiere of Rhapsody in Blue in 1924, a year that marks many musical milestones.
The program commemorates the passing of composer Giacomo Puccini, the most successful proponent of Italian opera after Verdi, and Gabriel Fauré, one of the foremost French composers of his generation. The program also features Camille Saint-Saëns’ Pas Redouble, arranged for a band by Arthur Frackenpohl, as well as Academy Award winning themes by Henry Mancini, considered one of the greatest composers in the history of film, in an arrangement by Warren Barker. Both Frackenpohl and Mancini were born in 1924.
Gershwin composed Rhapsody in Blue in a few short weeks for a concert by Paul Whiteman’s Palais Royal Orchestra, titled "An Experiment in Modern Music,” presented at Aeolean Hall in New York City in February of 1924. Whiteman’s intent was to show that American jazz could be combined with classical and other types of music. The original score by Ferde Grofe comprised 23 instruments and piano solo. Subsequently, Thomas Verrier expanded the original setting to concert band instrumentation based on Grofe’s manuscripts.
Pianist Jake Kinney is the featured soloist on Rhapsody in Blue. Kinney is a versatile musician, performing with the Concord Band on trumpet, with our Jazz Ensemble on piano, as well as leading our Holiday Pops sing-along on vocals.
Kinney first performed Rhapsody in Blue in 2014 at the Snow Pond Center for the Arts in Sidney, ME, and again in 2016 with the Greece Symphony Orchestra in Rochester, NY. Of the composition, Jake said, “it is one of my favorite pieces of music of all time, truly occupying a unique niche within the piano repertoire. I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Jim O’Dell and the Concord Band for this opportunity.”
Admission to the Concord Band's Fall Concert is free, with a requested donation of $20 per person. A reception will follow the concert.

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

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.

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

Grant from Red Hat and Matching Gift Challenge Give Lift to Affordable Housing Apartments Project on Boston Road in Westford

One year ago this month The Drew Farmhouse Inc. received a two-thirds vote at town meeting for Community Preservation money. The money was earmarked to preserve the 1860 Drew farmhouse at 70 Boston Road, most recently used to house real estate offices.The balance of the funds are being used to create five apartments in the farmhouse. All five will be rented as “workforce affordable” units. To live there, tenants must meet income guidelines established by HUD. To do the final work, The Drew Farmhouse board of directors is beginning its final fundraising campaign to raise the last $250,000. Kicking off the final campaign is Red Hat, longtime Westford corporate leader with headquarters on Route 110. Last week, John Flanagan, former Red Hat executive and former president of Westford Rotary, announced that Red Hat is donating $10,000 to the workforce affordable housing project. This thrilling news came just two weeks after another supporter of the affordable housing project offered to match every gift received between October 1st and the end of January 2025 up to $100,000. Completion of this last phase of the campaign will mean that tenants can be living in the farmhouse apartments by the New Year. To donate, please go to our website at drewfarmhouse.org or send your check payable to The Drew Farmhouse, Inc. to P.O. Box 391, Westford, MA 01886. For information about donating stock, please email info@drewfarmhouse.org. Ellen Harde 978-692-2039 39mainstreet@gmail.com

Let the Ghoul Times Roll-3rd Annual Halloween Event to Benefit Project Kompass

Howl-Ween Happening at the Wash Spaw

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.

Stand up to Stigma

Cucurbit Farm is hosting the Stand Up to Stigma Scarecrow Contest, with proceeds benefiting NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) Central Middlesex. https://www.namicentralmiddlesex.org/
Visit the farm at 32 Parker St. in Acton to see the scarecrows on display throughout October and cast your vote for your favorites. Plus, don’t miss the Jack O' Lantern Glow event during Halloween weekend, where carved pumpkins will illuminate the farm stand fence. Be sure to check out the corn maze while you are there!

Come Celebrate 30 years of Boxborough’s Ownership of Steele Farm

The town of Boxborough purchased Steele Farm in the fall of 1994. The Steele Farm Committee will host a 30th anniversary celebration on the property at 484 Middle Road on Saturday, October 19 between 2 and 4 PM. This event will feature seasonal refreshments and tours of the barn and Boxborough’s only remaining ice house. There will also be displays of various farm implements. While the public cannot tour the 1784 Levi Wetherbee farmhouse, there will be a “look in” and pictures of the interior will be available. This is a great chance to come and see and celebrate all the work that has been done! All are welcome including canine companions.

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.

Divorce Support Group by Remote Meeting

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!

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.