Action Unlimited

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

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!

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.

Westford LWV to hold Special Town Meeting Preview

The League of Women Voters of Westford is hosting a Special Town Meeting Preview on Thursday, October 17, to educate residents about items on the meeting warrant. The preview will be held virtually at 7:00 p.m. Residents should use the following Zoom link to attend: https://westfordma-gov.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_i1weW8AhQsKsw6jWTwBuzA
The Special Town Meeting will be held on Monday, October 21, at 7:00 p.m. at Westford Academy, 30 Patten Road. The voter registration deadline for the Special Town Meeting is Friday, October 11, at 5:00 p.m. You can check your voter registration status on this site: My Voter Registration Status: Search (state.ma.us).
There are 10 articles on this year’s Special Town Meeting warrant. Of particular note is Article 1, which would amend the zoning bylaw to define and regulate firearm businesses in town. To read the Town Meeting warrant, visit: https://www.westfordma.gov/DocumentCenter/View/15267/2024-STM-FINAL-WARRANT-09252024
For more information about Special Town Meeting, check out the Westford Town Moderator’s website at Town Moderator | Westford, MA (westfordma.gov).
The League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan, issues-oriented organization for all that encourages informed and active participation in government. The League does not support or oppose any candidate or political party. For more information about the organization, go to Westford League of Women Voters | Empowering Voters. Defending Democracy.

Harvest Fair October 23

Come join us for our annual exciting Harvest Fair at the Cameron Senior Center on October 23 at 10 A.M. in Westford. Enjoy a cup of coffee or cider as you stroll through our talented outside vendors, crafters, and Trudy’s Boutique for your holiday shopping. Take a chance on a door prize or raffle baskets donated by local merchants and be a winner! No admission fee and all proceeds benefit Westford Seniors.

Autumn Junk in the Trunk

Littleton Sustainability Committee to Host Climate Action Plan Forum

The Littleton Sustainability Committee (LSC) invites all residents to attend a Climate Action Plan public forum on Tuesday, October 22, at 7:00 p.m. in the Sturtz Room at the Reuben Hoar Library. This important event will feature Tom Birmingham, a former energy executive and sustainability leader, who will present a framework for creating a comprehensive Climate Action Plan to address key areas such as energy conservation, public health, and climate resilience.
Joining the forum will be Jim Snyder-Grant, a Select Board Member from Acton, who played a pivotal role in developing Acton’s Climate Action Plan in 2022. Snyder-Grant will share his experience and provide valuable insights from Acton’s journey toward sustainability.
This forum offers an opportunity for the community to engage in a discussion about the future of Littleton. Attendees will learn about strategies for climate mitigation and adaptation and how they can contribute to shaping a sustainable future for the town. The session will cover the essential elements of building a plan that enhances local sustainability and protects our natural resources.
Background on the Littleton Sustainability Committee
The Littleton Sustainability Committee (LSC) was established in 2013 by the Board of Selectmen to guide the town’s sustainability vision and goals. Littleton has a long history of valuing its natural resources, and the LSC acknowledges that the sustainable development of these resources is essential to the town’s economic, cultural, and environmental health. The committee aims to reduce carbon use and foster a balance between development, commerce, and conservation, ensuring Littleton’s long-term prosperity and quality of life for future generations.
The LSC’s mission is to cultivate a culture of sustainability in Littleton by partnering with residents, government, and businesses. Through innovation, education, and strategic planning, the LSC seeks to integrate sustainability into every aspect of the community’s operations.
Event Details:
Climate Action Plan Forum
Date: Tuesday, October 22, 2024
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Location: Sturtz Room, Reuben Hoar Library, 35 Shattuck St, Littleton, MA
For more information, please contact sustainability@littletonma.org or visit the EnergizeLIttleton website, https://community.massenergize.org/LittletonMA

Nashoba Symphonic Band presents “Of Thee I Sing”

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

Mental Health Course, in Person in Boxborough

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

Styrofoam Collection

Saturday, October 19th from 9am-2pm, or until the truck is full!
Westford Highway Department
28 North Street
For Westford Residents only.
Accepted:
#6 (EPS) – pre-formed packing, insulation board, and coolers
#4 (EPS) – spongy foam expanded polystyrene
NOT accepted: Styrofoam food containers, including cups, meat trays, and packing peanuts.
HELPFUL if you can bring items in a large cardboard box (OK if not full) or a larger plastic bag to facilitate our transportation.
Volunteers are needed for the 19th (it is lots of fun) – contact organizer Dick Coleman at rjcoleman2020@gmail.com.
Sponsored by First Parish Church United, Westford. Donations are accepted to defray the cost for transporting Styrofoam to Gold Circuit in

Mass Teen Choice Book Award Announces 2024 Winners

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

Fall for Goldens Festival

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

Semi-Annual Fall Clothing Swap

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

Meet me at the Fair!

Celebrate 91 years of creativity and community at the Boxborough Merrie Christmas Fair on Saturday, November 23, from 9am to 1pm at the Boxborough Church located on the corner of Route 111 and Middle Road. You will find handmade ornaments, seasonal greens, homemade gifts, jewelry, baked goods, live music and attic “treasures”. There will also be a children’s table for the smallest shoppers and Santa will roam between the church, town hall and the community center. Shop online early at the fair's Silent Auction to find unique gifts for everyone on your holiday list. The site goes live on November 13 at 8:00am: https://www.biddingforgood.com/UCCBSilentAuction.

Littleton Lyceum Sacred Landscape Program

Now in its 195th year bringing affordable quality entertainment to town, the Littleton Lyceum kicks off its 2024-2025 season with a program featuring our most ancient inhabitants. Littleton is sacred ground. We walk and live amongst a Native-made Spirit-dwelling landscape, a shamanic-world hidden just out of sight, set aside in 1654 by the Nashobah Praying Indians to preserve this sacred place. Journey with us as we explore a world of ceremonial stone constructions, from antiquity to modern times, hidden all around us: prayers to Creator built of stone, Spirit-summoning enclosures, vision seats, spirit portals, manitou stones, solstice sunrise welcoming sites, sacred turtle effigies, serpent rows, and earthen dance-rings to name a few. Tread softly here, this landscape lives, and is a place of communion between the Great Spirit and the human spirit. Littleton’s Hidden Sacred-Shamanic Landscape: Sacred Stones, Vision Quest, and the Nashobah Praying Indians will be presented by Littleton residents Strong Bear Medicine and Daniel V. Boudillion on Friday, October 18, 2024 at 7:30 pm in Littleton High School’s Performing Arts Center at 56 King Street. Season tickets to the Lyceum are available for families or individuals for $40.00, and single tickets may be purchased at the door for $12.00, $5.00 for seniors and students. For m

The Cannon Theatre Proudly Presents “Play On!”

Devens, MA: The Cannon Theatre is pleased to present Play On!, a hilarious love letter to community theater, written by Rick Abbott. This production, directed by Kathleen O’Connor, is the second in The Cannon Theatre’s 2024-25 season line-up, which also includes A Christmas Carol Radio Show, Legally Blonde Jr., Enchanted April, A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder, and a 10-Minute Play Festival. Play On! is the hilarious story of a plucky community theater group trying desperately to produce a show called Murder Most Foul, a new “murder mystery play” with the same title as an Agatha Christie novel (but with no relation whatsoever) in spite of maddening interference from a haughty author who keeps revising the script! Between the bumbling actors, the struggling backstage crew, and the crazy sound effects designer, the audience is treated to a madcap farce and a thoroughly entertaining romp! Show times are October 25, 26, November 1, 2, and 8 at 7:30 pm, with matinees on October 27, November 3 and 9 at 2:00 pm. Tickets are available at www.thecannontheatre.org, and are $25 for adults, and $20 for students/seniors

Become an Effective Speaker

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