Happily Ever After? is a fantasy-comedy by Lucas Wright that is filled to the brim with action, witty humor, and pop culture references that is fun for the whole family. Taking place in a world of several medieval kingdoms, it flips the classic rescue-of-a-princess plot on its head with various funny twists and turns. Want to find out what happens when a fairy owes you a favor, a cooky German wizard makes flowers do his bidding, and a massive evil plot gets revealed? Come see Happily Ever After? this May! Performances will be held Friday, May 15th at 7PM, Saturday, May 16th at 7PM and Sunday, May 17th at 2PM. All shows will be performed at Littleton Middle School Cafe. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased at the door or at lmsdrama.org

On Thursday, May 21, at 7:30 pm, the Littleton Historical Society will present “The Whitcomb
House Lives On” at the Congregational Church of Littleton on 330 King St.

Sandy Martin Murray, PhD., is a retired cell biologist, current genetic genealogist, and member
of the Littleton Historical Society. She also wishes to restart the DNA and Genealogy Special
Interest Group at the Reuben Hoar Library. She and her husband David Murray, also a retired
scientist and currently astronomer/astrophotographer, always wanted to live in an “old” house
and were fortunate to buy the original Whitcomb estate in Littleton, one of the few remaining
“colonials.” They feel they are temporary stewards of this historic property and planned on
restoring as much of the structural integrity of the house as possible. Sandy will speak on the
history of the house (including the Whitcomb family genealogy) and the ongoing process of
sensitively renovating the 316 year old house.

 

If you’re a local business owner, a workplace retirement plan can be a powerful tool – helping you manage taxes, support employee retention and build long term financial security.

Despite common misconceptions, these plans aren’t just for large companies. Today’s options work for businesses of every size.

If you’re self employed or don’t have employees, there are three commonly used types of plans

• A SEP IRA is simple, low maintenance and lets you vary contributions each year.
• An owner only 401(k) offers higher contribution limits and borrowing features in exchange for more complexity.
• And an owner only defined benefit plan allows the highest contributions and provides guaranteed income. (But this option requires steady funding and more administrative work.)

If you do have employees, additional options like a SIMPLE IRA, traditional or safe harbor 401(k), or a cash balance plan may fit your needs.

A financial advisor can help you compare these choices and select the best fit for your business and your retirement goals.

This content was provided by Edward Jones for use by Alan Bell, your Edward Jones financial advisor at 222 Great Road, Suite 8 Littleton, MA 01460.
Edward Jones, Member SIPC

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

The Westford 300th Anniversary committee has started gathering ideas to celebrate this historic town milestone. Join us at an upcoming community forum to learn more about our plans and share your input early in the planning process.

The Committee is eager to hear suggestions of all kinds - from festivals, concerts, and educational programs to historical projects, public art, and community traditions that could bring residents together throughout the 2029 anniversary year.

The Meetings are being held:
May 8 at 1:00PM at the Cameron Senior Center
May 17 at 1:00PM at the Westford Museum
June 11 at 7:00PM Virtual Meeting (Westford CAT)

If you can not attend any community meeting, you can still offer your input by completing the survey found here: https://forms.gle/HNMCAbMgBKP3R9369

You can learn more about the committee here: https://museum.westford.org/westford-300th-anniversary/

Saturday, May 9, 2026, 10:30 am – 4:30 pm
Westford Dept. of Public Works, 28 North Street

Please unload your brush as directed by the Highway Department personnel. Deposit your $10 check, payable to the Town of Westford, in the marked container.
Proof of Westford residency required.
Accepted: Brush and branches up to 3 inches in diameter and 10 feet in length. Must be average residential brush categories and reasonable amounts: A load ranges from a trunk to pickup truck ­­­­­volume, includes tow behind a full trailer.
Not accepted: Building materials (e.g., fences, boards), land clearing materials and debris (e.g., roots, bushes, anything mixed with poison ivy), grass, and leaves

BOSTON, April 22, 2026 — The American Red Cross urges donors to give blood or platelets now to help hospitals and transfusion centers stay prepared to help all patients. Donors of all blood types and those looking to give for the first time are encouraged to book an appointment in the coming days or weeks ahead.

In addition to the return of outdoor activities and warmer weather, spring vacations can interrupt blood donation patterns. When plans shift away from normal routines, even small disruptions can lead to a quick drop in available blood products.

Spread kindness this spring. Book a time to give blood or platelets now by visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS or by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App.

Those who come to give April 13-30, 2026, will receive a $15 e-gift card to a merchant of their choice. See RedCrossBlood.org/Hope for details.

All who come to give May 1-17, 2026, will receive a $20 Amazon Gift Card by email, thanks to our partners at Amazon. See RedCrossBlood.org/Amazon for details.

Upcoming blood donation opportunities:

Littleton
5/8/2026: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., Acton Toyota of Littleton, 221 Great Rd

Westford
5/7/2026: 1 p.m. - 6 p.m., First Parish Church, 48 Main Street

 

Friday, May 1 from 4pm - 6pm Members only! Become a member ahead of time
https://sites.google.com/view/rhlfriends/donate or at the door

Saturday May 2, 10am - 3pm All books $2-$3

Sunday, May 3, 10am - 3pm BAG DAY $5/bag

Have donations? Drop off donations from 10am-7pm on Weds, April 29 or
Thursday, April 30. Please note the guidelines below!

Want to help? Sign up to set up the sale, sell books, or pack up after the
sale. https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0E4FADAD28A1FEC16-63463535-copy

The Littleton Historical Society’s Second Sunday Open House on May 10 will be the last Sunday
to see our special exhibit commemorating The Nashobah Praying Indians’ exile to Deer Island
350 years ago. This exhibit includes timeline and text, pictures and maps, artifacts, and Native
handcrafted items.

Please come by and learn about this often-overlooked chapter in our history.
The Historical Society on 4 Rogers Street will be open from 1-4 pm on the second Sunday of
each month, and from 1-4 every Wednesday afternoon.

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

Sale dates are:

Friday, May 1, 4pm - 6pm Friends Only Members Preview. Become a member at the door with a $20.00 donation.

Saturday, May 2: 10:00a.m. - 3:00p.m.

Sunday, May 3, $5 Bag Sale: 10:00 a.m. - 3:00p.m.

Hardcover books, movies, and music on CD or DVD are just $3.00; paperbacks and all children's books are $2.00 each. All day Sunday, fill a paper grocery sized bag for only $5.00! Book donations can be dropped off at the library on Wednesday and Thursday, April 29th and 30th, during open hours. If you'd like to volunteer at the sale, visit the Friends website (click Friends on LittletonLibrary.org) for more information. Young adult volunteers are welcome.

The Friends of the Reuben Hoar Library assist the Reuben Hoar Library in providing print and non-print materials and equipment, sponsoring educational programs, assisting with library-sponsored programs, and providing museum passes for use by library patrons. Already in 2026, the Friends have given over $12,000 toward Summer Reading, Seed Library supplies, coffee cart support, and snacks for the Young Adult Room.

For more information about the Friends of the Reuben Hoar Library, click the Friends link from LittletonLibrary.org or email reubenhoarlibraryfriends@gmail.com

The public is invited to attend the free opening reception and awards ceremony for the Stronger Together: Art for Democracy contest  on Saturday, May 2, from 6-8 pm at 19 Foster St. (First Church Unitarian), Littleton, Mass. Nearly 50 New England artists of all ages shared their creativity in celebration of diversity, democracy, and the American spirit.
Gallery hours on Sunday, May 3 are 1 to 4:30 pm at the same accessible location, free and open to the public. At a time when our country feels deeply divided, the Art for Democracy contest highlights shared democratic values and civic engagement, and offers opportunities for dialogue and connections across communities.
The project is sponsored by: the Reclaiming our Democracy Task Force of First Church Unitarian in Littleton; the League of Women Voters of Westford; and the Littleton and Westford Cultural Councils.
Thank you for supporting creativity, community, and free speech, which is basic to democracy. For more information, contact artfordemocracy@fculittle.org.

 

Saturday, April 25, 2026, 9 am – 1 pm at the Abbot School, 25 Depot St., Westford, MA.  The following will be collected: 
HOUSEHOLD GOODS
Usable Furniture without stains or tears
NO glass-topped tables
Usable Mattresses without stains, rips or tears
Twin, Full, and Queen sizes accepted
No King sizes accepted
Small Working Appliances
Household Goods and Décor


NEW ENGLAND CLOTHES RECYCLING
Wearable Clothing
Textiles for Recycling – worn out, torn, stained, outdated
Includes bedding, fabric window treatments, shoes, single socks, pillows, and stuffed animals
Toys, Games, Puzzles
Housewares and household décor
NO car seats, no cribs, no strollers, and no baby gates
NO Moldy or Mildewed Items
ONLY Clean Containers

MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS
Hand-held instruments for donation
Music books and Sheet music

STYROFOAM DROP OFF
Polystyrene (EPS) blocks #6 only

E.L. HARVEY
The town's waste vendor will offer free SHREDDING for residents.

Saturday, April 25, 2026, 9 am – 1 pm at the Westford DPW, 28 North St., Westford, MA

Scrap metal and nearly everything with a power cord!
Computers, monitors, and most other electronic devices and equipment, appliances of all sizes.
Some fees may apply.

For more information, go to: www.westfordma.gov/recycling

Residents are invited to attend complimentary classes on Monday, April 27 from 7–8 PM, Tuesday, April 28 from 12–12:45 PM, and a special pop-up session on Friday, May 1 from 5:30–6:30 PM. These classes offer an accessible opportunity for participants of all levels to experience the physical and mental benefits of yoga in a supportive, community-centered environment.
The Friday, May 1 class serves as a special kickoff to Mental Health Awareness Month. Participants who sign up on or before April 28 will be entered to win a wellness gift basket valued at $100. The winner will be announced at the end of the class, and must be present to receive the prize.
In addition to these free offerings, Westford Recreation hosts regular weekly yoga classes on Mondays and Tuesdays at the same times, with flexible options including six-week session sign-ups or convenient drop-in classes to fit a variety of schedules. All classes are held at 65 Main Street, 3rd Floor, Westford and are open to residents and non-residents. 
Yoga is widely recognized for its positive impact on mental health. Through mindful movement, breath work, and moments of stillness, yoga can help reduce stress, ease anxiety, improve mood, and foster a greater sense of connection—both within oneself and with others. Whether you're new to yoga or returning to your practice, these classes offer a gentle and empowering way to support overall well-being. Visit Westford Recreation at the Hope Blooms Here Fair on Tuesday, April 28 from 5:30-7:00pm in the courtyard next to the Town Hall to learn more and sign up for classes!
All are encouraged to join, take a pause, and prioritize mental health together this May!
View class offereings and sign up at westfordma.myrec.com

 

WESTFORD, MA: Parish Center for the Arts (10 Lincoln Street) is known for all kinds of music and art, primarily because some things are not for everyone, and they like to share a wide variety to hopefully please everyone at least some times!  On May 17 at 4pm the offering is Mozaic Ensemble, normally Classical/Chamber in nature, but in their case – also modern and fun. Doors open at 3:30pm for the 4pm afternoon concert. Tickets range from $5-$20 in advance; $25 at the door (if available). Seating will be in recital format. Visit pcawestford.org for tickets and more information.

Mosaic Ensemble featuring Aniko Geladze (violin), Kimberly Vars Whitehead (piano), and Gary Hodges (cello) have played at hundreds of events across New England. The group's name reflects the wide range of possibility within the chamber music genre.
 
Direct Ticket Link: https://parisharts.square.site/product/5-17-26-mozaic-ensemble/NFIPU3GTAF72IMCUCXICUJPL

Facebook: facebook.com/ParishCenterfortheArts
Twitter: twitter.com/PCAWestford
Instagram: instagram.com/pcawestford

Parish Center for the Arts
978-692-6333

As the trees begin to bloom in the Chelmsford area, everybody's thoughts turn to Spring, and it's time for the Chelmsford Community Band to celebrate the final performance of their regular season.  Join them on Sunday, May 3, at 2pm in Chelmsford's McCarthy Middle School for their annual tradition of a joint performance of the Concert Band and Jazz Ensemble accompanied by the ever-popular "basket" raffle fundraiser. Sections of the band and local businesses have donated fantastic prizes representing various fun and engaging themes.  Check out the band's social media on Facebook, Instagram, or BlueSky for sneak peaks at the donations.

The Concert Band, led by Westford resident and Chelmsford band teacher Eric Lindsner, will present a program themed on travel.  The music will take you on a journey both abroad and back home.  The Jazz Ensemble will feature swing and jazz favorites, led by Art Bakopolus.  Admission to the concert is free, but donations are always very gratefully accepted so that the band can continue to operate.  Suggested donations are $10 for adults and $20 for families.  Baked goods can be taken home for a small additional donation.

The Chelmsford Community Band is a 501(c)3 nonprofit and has a 75-piece concert band and a 20-piece jazz ensemble made of dedicated volunteer musicians with a proud tradition of bringing live musical performances to this community since 1972.  They are supported by grants from local businesses, arts organizations such as the Chelmsford Cultural Council, and your donations.  Follow them on Facebook, Instagram, or BlueSky, and find them online at www.chelmsfordcommunityband.com.

What could be more beautiful than a room filled with hand crafted quilts?! Catch the enthusiasm and plan to attend this local Quilt Show taking place Saturday and Sunday, May 16 & 17. Show hours are 10:00am until 4:00pm both days.
Quilt Shows are held every two years and are always a highlight of Guild programming. If you are in the area, this show is a "must see" event!
The show features over 100 Traditional, Modern, and Art quilts made by members, a Members Boutique, Silent Auction of Mini Quilts, Raffle of Themed Baskets, and More!
A Charity Quilt made by members called "Shimmering Water" will be raffled off with 50% of the proceeds to benefit the local Wish Project. Raffle tickets for a sewing machine donated by Bits 'n Pieces Quilt Shop will be sold. Show Vendors are Bits 'n Pieces Quilt Shop of Pelham NH, The Wandering Quilt Shop traveling from Maine, and on Sunday only, National Sharpening Company (scissor and blade sharpener).
The show is being held at Chelmsford Senior Center, 75 Groton Road (route 40), North Chelmsford MA. $10 admission, cash or check only; children under 12 are free.  Building is wheelchair accessible and there is plenty of free parking!
For more information, visit www.chelmsfordquiltguild.com

 

• “E” stands for environment. It looks at how companies handle climate impact and natural resources.
• “S” is for social factors, including product safety and the wellbeing of a company’s workers.
• “G” is governance, which considers a company’s ethics and transparency and how responsibly it is run.

The Friends of the Bolton Public Library will hold their semiannual book sale on Saturday, May 2nd, from 8:30am - 3pm. No rain date. Location is the Houghton Building, 697 Main Street, Bolton, MA. There will be over 5,000 books, sorted before and after each sale, and not picked over. The sale also includes puzzles, CDs, and DVDs.
The book sales are the Friends’ largest fundraisers. Proceeds from the sales support programming, events, museum passes, and Wowbrary for the Bolton Public Library.

 

Los Angeles, CA - As the landscape of higher education shifts toward skill-based outcomes, Middlesex Community College joins “Empowered hosted by Meg Ryan” to explore how community colleges serve as essential hubs for regional workforce development and equitable career access.
The upcoming segment, scheduled to film on April 22, 2026, focuses on the structural role of community colleges within the American educational system. Production will take place at the Middlesex Community College campuses in Bedford and Lowell, Massachusetts, documenting the institutional frameworks designed to align student learning with the immediate needs of the regional economy. The program investigates the transition toward integrated career pathways, including dual enrollment for high school students and specialized career embedded options like "Learn & Earn" and Apprenticeships. By documenting the coordination between academic instruction and local industry requirements, the series provides Public Television viewers with a comprehensive look at how accessible education serves as a primary driver for professional advancement and financial stability.
“Now more than ever, community colleges are in a unique position to prepare the workforce with highly skilled, knowledgeable and experienced professionals,” said Phil Sisson, Middlesex Community College’s President. “Understanding the importance of career-integrated learning, Middlesex Community College leverages our leadership within our communities by forming valuable partnerships with organizations and companies throughout our service area and the broader Commonwealth. To respond directly to their needs, MCC implements relevant internship, apprenticeship and hands-on opportunities to train our students for these in-demand roles. Combined with industry-driven curriculum and immersive clinical and laboratory experiences, MCC integrates career-focused learning into all our programs, ensuring students become productive and successful members of their communities and workplaces.”
Maintaining a robust local economy requires an adaptable educational infrastructure that can respond to the evolving demands of modern industry. Middlesex Community College has addressed these needs by implementing corporate training partnerships that provide students with practical, hands-on experience while they complete their studies. The segment examines how these programs reduce traditional barriers to entry for underrepresented groups and provide a flexible alternative to high-cost four-year institutions. Furthermore, the documentary explores the impact of free community college initiatives and how they contribute to a more equitable distribution of opportunity across the Commonwealth.
This educational approach focuses on meeting students at their current stage of life, whether they are recent high school graduates or adult learners seeking to pivot into new sectors such as biotechnology or advanced manufacturing. Beyond technical proficiency, the documentary emphasizes the mentorship and holistic support services that ensure students can navigate their academic journey while balancing external responsibilities. By focusing on these functional solutions, the segment aims to inform the public about the strategic importance of community-based learning in fostering a resilient and skilled workforce. The project provides an educational overview of how modern institutions are effectively bridging the gap between education and the workforce to ensure long-term regional prosperity.

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

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

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

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

The West Acton Baptist Church, 592 Mass Ave., Acton will have a Pop-Up Thrift from 12pm-3pm during the WAVMA Spring Fling (a West Acton Annual Village Event) on May 9th. The Pop-Up Thrift is a weekly event on Thursdays 3-5:30 but due to popular demand, we are adding this special Pop-Up!
In addition to the Thrift, there will be information & a promotion to raise funds for our Historic Steeple Project. Visit our website www.westactonbaptistchurch/org for more information & history on the historic steeple.
3D Widgets will also be for sale.

Wednesday, April 22, from 2-6PM on MACPHERSON ROAD, DEVENS
Whether you run, bike, hike, roll, scoot, or stroll this is your dedicated, safe space for Earth Day play in a beautiful natural area!
Ayer, Devens, and the Oxbow National Wildlife Refuge will again host the Open Street and Greenway Earth Day Event on Wednesday, April 22nd, from 2pm-6pm on MacPherson Road. This will be the 5th annual open streets event, celebrating Earth Day by opening the streets to people for recreational activities and the opportunity to experience the beautiful Wild and Scenic Nashua River and Oxbow National Wildlife Refuge in a safe and peaceful manner.
The event will be on MacPherson Road in Devens, accessible from Bishop Road in Ayer, MA. There will be no access from West Main Street. Feel free to bring any manner of non-motorized wheels—bicycles, scooters, skateboards, etc. Picnics are also welcome; however, no food or drinks will be sold at the event. Please carry in and carry out all trash.
Displays will be set up and tours will start from the intersection where Bishop and MacPherson Roads meet. There will be guided walks featuring local trails, birds, and a pollinator meadow, as well as nearly 20 environmental organizations offering information and activities for visitors of all ages. A hands on activities such as bird box making, mural painting, and a nature-based scavenger hunt will also be offered.
This year as part of the Devens Climate Resiliency Project (MVP 2.0), team members will be conducting outreach at the festival to learn about community concerns in preparation of utilizing a state grant to address community issues and increase community resiliency. To participate in the survey, visit https://tinyurl.com/DevensMVPSurvey.
You can choose your level of activity, you may come get active and count your steps or sit, relax, and enjoy the beauty of the Nashua River and Oxbow National Wildlife Refuge. Either way, this is an opportunity to take a break, unplug from the stresses of daily life and reconnect with our natural surroundings. See this natural local treasure from a new vantage point and demonstrate how nice it is to leave the car behind and get around the city on foot or bike.
See https://www.devensec.com/news.html for information and updates or contact bethsuedmeyer@devensec.com. See also our partner websites: Oxbow National Wildlife Refuge https://www.fws.gov/refuge/oxbow and Nashua Rivers Wild and Scenic Stewardship Council https://www.wildandscenicnashuarivers.org/.