• Brain & Language Development: Studies in early childhood education show that active participation in group music classes accelerates language acquisition, auditory processing, and spatial reasoning in infants, toddlers, and preschoolers.
• Social Regulation & Teamwork: Group rhythm circles, singing games, and shared play help young children learn turn-taking, emotional regulation, and cooperative skills in a gentle, supportive environment before stepping into traditional pre-K or elementary classrooms.
• Hands-On Technology at CCM 2: For older children and teens, the new CCM 2 Media Lab (15 Junction Square Drive) introduces young creators to modern digital music production, beat-making, and audio recording using software like GarageBand, fostering digital literacy alongside artistic expression.

• DATE: Saturday, August 29, 2026, 1-3 PM
• LOCATIONS:
  • CCM Main Building: 1317 Main Street, Concord, MA 01742
  • CCM 2 Media Lab: 15 Junction Square Drive, Concord, MA 01742
• Admission: Free
• ACTIVITIES INCLUDE:
  • Early childhood music and movement exploration for infants through age 5
  • Hands-on instrument try-outs (piano, strings, woodwinds, and percussion)
  • Interactive digital music and beat-making demos at the CCM 2 Media Lab
  • Meets-and-greets with CCM faculty members
  • Sign-ups for free class demo sessions

The Chelmsford Historical Society, in collaboration with Goonz Car Club Massachusetts, will be holding our 3rd annual classic car show on Sunday, August 16, 2026 from 11am-3pm.

The show was very popular the last two years, and we are hoping for a large turnout again this year! All pre-1980 cars and trucks are welcome at the event.

The car show will be held at the Barrett-Byam Homestead, located at 40 Byam Road, Chelmsford, MA. There will be food for purchase, music, games, and a 50/50 raffle. The Watt-Stevens room and the General Store will be available for viewing.

http://www.chelmhist.org/

Saturday, August 15, from 9:00 am – 11:00 am

Location: Lawn at 39 Main Street, Westford (across from Muffins on Main)
Volunteer members of the Westford Recycling Commission will show Westford residents how to compost organic material. Composting diverts food wastes from the trash and reduces the high cost of Westford’s trash collection. Organic material can represent up to 20% of the weight of our trash.
Earth Machines composters will be available to Westford residents at the demonstrations for only $25 each at a discount from a state grant. Checks should be made out to the Town of Westford.
At any time, Westford residents can purchase an Earth Machine backyard composter for $25 by contacting Nicole Feliciano at the Dept. of Public Works at 978-692-5520 or by email: nfeliciano@westfordma.gov.
For more information, visit www.westfordma.gov/recycling. Follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/WestfordRecyclingCommission

The Littleton Historical Society museum will hold its ever-popular annual Peach Social on Wednesday, August 19 from 6:30-8:00 pm. You won’t want to miss it! In addition, we will be open through August 13: Wednesdays 1-4, second Sundays 1-4, and Thursday evenings 6-8.

Stop in and check out our permanent collection as well as this year’s Advance Placement U.S. History class displays in the Exhibit Hall. We are located at 4 Rogers St. and have air conditioning!

 

Looking for friendship and good conversation?  The Nashoba Valley Neighbors Club would like to invite you to connect with our members on Thursday August 27, 2026 at our Mini Golf event in Westford.  We will meet at Kimball Farm, 400 Littleton Road, Westford from 6:00 PM to 8:30 PM to enjoy friends, mini golf, food, and ice cream.  We will meet under the tent with our Nashoba Valley neighbors sign at the table.  If you would like more information, or to join us, please RSVP to info@nashobavalleyneighbors.org.

Our ongoing public events are Lunch Bunch, Movie Nights, Book Club, Dinner Group, Brunch, Trivia Nights, Summer Picnic, Wine Tastings, as well as Men’s and Ladies Night out events.

The Nashoba Valley Neighbors Club is a non-profit social organization open to new and established residents from Acton, Boxborough, Chelmsford, Groton, Littleton, Westford, Maynard, and Harvard.  Originally called the Welcome Wagon Newcomers Club of Acton, and then the Acton-Boxborough Newcomers & Neighbors Club, in 2014, we became the Nashoba Valley Neighbors Club to reflect our current members and their interests.  Our club welcomes any residents in the surrounding communities that are looking to explore new interests and to make connections with new friends.

Find us on Facebook or visit the Club’s website at http://www.nashobavalleyneighbors.org for more information, as well as information on how to become a member of the Nashoba Valley Neighbors Club.  We look forward to seeing you!

 

Financial security doesn’t have to come from a big break or a high salary. Wealth is often built through small habits repeated many times over.

If you’re young and just getting started, time is your advantage. Begin now with these five small habits that can help build lasting wealth.

First, automate your savings. Pay yourself before you spend. Even 1% to 5% adds up over time.

Second, watch the small stuff. Subscriptions and coffee can quietly drain your money if you’re not paying attention.

Third, when your income increases, like through a bonus or a raise, increase your savings first before you spend.

Fourth, start now. Even with small savings early, your money has time to grow, thanks to compounding, where your money earns interest and that interest earns interest.

Finally, check in weekly or monthly, and build a safety cushion. Stay aware, not obsessed.

Your future wealth starts with small choices, so start early and stay consistent.

This content was provided by Alan Bell, your Edward Jones financial advisor located at 222 Great Road Suite 8 Littleton, MA 01460, 978-486-1059.
Edward Jones, Member SIPC

 

The Silver Club of the Uxbridge Senior Center will be taking a trip to Virginia Beach from Sept. 28 to Oct. 3. For $819, it includes the bus, the hotel, 5 breakfasts, 6 dinners, a guided tour of Williamsburg, a narrated Norfolk Naval Base Harbor Cruise, admission to the Nauticus and Battleship Wisconsin, the boardwalk, Virginia Beach Aquarium, and the Mariner's Museum and Park. Everyone is invited to join the group on this tour. The bus will depart from the park and ride in Millbury on Rt 20.
Please call Sue at 508-341-0797 for more information.

 

Community invited to share stories of Club impact as organization prepares for its next chapter 

After 30 years of dedicated service to the children, families, and communities of MetroWest, Chris Duane, President of Boys & Girls Clubs of MetroWest, will retire following an extraordinary career devoted to creating opportunities and changing lives.
To celebrate her remarkable legacy, Boys & Girls Clubs of MetroWest will dedicate its signature annual fundraising Gala & Auction on Friday, October 23, 2026, to honoring Chris’ decades of leadership while raising critical funds to ensure the organization’s mission continues to thrive for generations to come.
The Gala, to be held at the Renaissance Hotel in Framingham, will bring together community leaders, alumni, supporters, corporate partners, volunteers, families, and friends for an evening celebrating both Chris’ impact and the thousands of young people whose lives have been forever changed through the work of Boys & Girls Clubs of MetroWest. Proceeds will directly support Club programs and the young members who depend on them.
The evening will bring together Club members, alumni, staff, corporate partners, and community supporters — a gathering that reflects exactly the kind of community Chris spent her career building.
Sponsorship opportunities and tickets are available at www.bgcmetrowest.org/gala.
"Chris has given everything to this mission," said Robert Borek, Chair of the Board of Directors. "What she built here isn't just a stronger organization — it's a community of people whose lives were genuinely changed. We are honoring her legacy by doing what she always did: keeping the focus on the young people who walk through our doors every day."
Throughout her tenure, Chris has helped guide Boys & Girls Clubs of MetroWest through tremendous growth and transformation. Under her leadership, the Club has grown from a small, one-Clubhouse organization to a three Clubhouse and $4M operation serving 3,200 young people annually across MetroWest — shaping futures, building confidence, and lighting a path forward for generations of members.

We Want to Hear from You 
In conjunction with the Gala announcement, Boys & Girls Clubs of MetroWest is inviting the community to participate in a special storytelling campaign celebrating Chris’ legacy.
Help us build the celebration of a lifetime. If the Boys & Girls Clubs of MetroWest — or Chris Duane — played a meaningful role in your life, we want to hear your story.
Were you a Club member who found your voice here? An alumnus whose career took shape because of this place? A family who felt the difference? We are collecting stories from across our community to be shared at the gala and beyond — a living testament to what happens when young people are given the chance to thrive.
“This celebration is about much more than one remarkable leader,” said Laura Terzigni, Vice President. “It’s about recognizing the ripple effect of decades of service and ensuring that Chris’ legacy continues through the children we will serve tomorrow.”
To share your story, visit www.bgcmetrowest.org/gala or contact Laura Terzigni at laura.terzigni@bgcmetrowest.org Submissions will be accepted through October 1, 2026. 

 

July 29, 2026   Worcester, MA – Tickets are on sale now for Worcester Chamber Music Society’s 21st Season Subscription Series concerts, which premiere on September 25th and will run through April 2027. Individual tickets are available for each of the performances, and full or “choose your own” subscriptions may be purchased at 10-20% savings.

Concert Dates:
Autumn Winds - September 25, 26

Exuberant Voices - November 8

Northern Lights - December 3, 4

American Spirit - January 28

Refractions - April 2, 4


This year, we will be featuring timeless works from well-known figures like Bach and Mozart, alongside magnificent pieces from 20th and 21st century composers such as Florence Price and Sarah Gibson. Unique aspects of their compositional styles set them apart from each other, yet they all share the ability to create passionate feeling and imaginative imagery through their music. Just as it did in the past, music continues to touch the lives of people everywhere and transcends the time period in which it was written.

Additional performances such as the Annual Free Family Concert, Very Open Rehearsals, Café Concerts, and an appearance at the Icon Museum in Clinton will be part of WCMS’s 21st Season as well.

Check the website for tickets and more information about each of the concerts and season updates:
https://worcesterchambermusic.org/2026-27-concert-schedule/ 

 

On Saturday, September 12, 2026 from 9 – 1, Memorial Congregational Church is hosting its Fall electronics recycling and document shredding event.

The event is open to all communities and will be held rain or shine.  At the electronics recycling truck, prices vary from $25-50 for a TV, $15 for a laptop computer, $15-25 for a computer monitor, $5-$40 for appliances, and $5 for a box of electric cords.  Workers will remove the items from your vehicle and place them in the recycling truck which is operated by a state-licensed electronic recycling company who will properly dispose of all items. They will accept ANYTHING WITH A CORD OR BATTERY (including washing machines, air conditioners, space heaters, treadmills, etc.) as well as propane tanks, any type of battery, printer ink cartridges, and toner cartridges.

The fee for shredding is just $9 per copy paper box or brown grocery bag.  A volunteer will remove your boxes or bags of documents from your car and your documents will be shredded on-site.  The truck is equipped with closed-circuit TV so you can actually watch the shredding if you wish. Personal and business documents of any type may be shredded.

You may pay by cash, check, or VENMO.

MCC is located at 26 Concord Road, just across from Goodnow Library in Sudbury. For more information, please email recycling@MCCSudbury.org  or call 978-443-3885.

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 for decades. Now we are continuing weekly on Thursday evenings by remote videoconference. For more information, call Doreen 617-957-0838 or contact paulbaker01@verizon.

When: Wednesday, August 19th, 7:00–8:00pm
Where: Zoom

Acton and Metrowest: Whether you’re looking to better understand your own bill or to help others in your community navigate their energy costs, this webinar will provide useful information and practical resources. The speaker is Sierra Moll, Energy Consumer Liaison for the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office. While helpful for all residents, her presentation is designed for community leaders who desire a better grasp of the details of utility billing and of the special programs that can help ratepayers get savvy with their bills. Topics to be covered include supply costs vs delivery costs, supply options, energy rate decisions, and how ratepayers can access special programs based on equipment, income, or season. Sponsored by MassEnergize.org with support from Energize Acton. To register, go to https://energizeacton.org/event/energy-bill-check-up-webinar/

The general public is welcome to attend the annual summer picnic of Saints Vartanantz Armenian Church to be held on the church grounds, 180 Old Westford Rd., Chelmsford, on Sunday, August 2 from 12 Noon to 5 p.m.  The picnic menu will include marinated grilled lamb and chicken kebabs, Armenian hamburgers (called Losh kebab), rice pilaf, and a wide variety of Armenian and Middle East pastries.  Armenian and Greek dancing music will be provided by the Jason Naroian Ensemble. Admission is Free.

Red Cross issues rare crisis call for donors as summer blood shortage intensifies
Patient care threatened as critical blood type levels continue to fall

BOSTON, July 27, 2026 — For only the second time in history, the American Red Cross has declared a national blood crisis — and patients may already be feeling the impact. Donors are asked to act immediately to help save lives.
Blood donations have fallen to a four-year summer low, worsening this season’s emergency blood shortage. All blood types are needed, but the situation is especially dire for type O blood as the Red Cross is now limiting distributions of these blood products to hospitals. The supply of type O positive blood has now dropped below a one-day supply.
Help end this crisis and stabilize the blood supply. Book an appointment to give blood now by using the Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). As a thank-you, all who come to give by July 31 will receive a Fandango Movie Ticket by email (up to $15 ticket price and fees). See RedCrossBlood.org/July.
Additionally, those who come to give Aug. 1-31, 2026, will receive a $20 Amazon Gift Card by email. For details, visit RedCrossBlood.org/August.
Patients can’t wait
Despite thousands of people who have stepped up to help end the emergency blood shortage since it was declared earlier this month, donations are still not keeping pace with hospital demand, and the situation has escalated. Extreme heat, poor air quality and widespread foodborne illnesses continue to contribute to lower donor turnout this summer.
“This summer has brought a number of unique challenges that have placed additional strain on our blood supply, creating growing concerns for hospitals and the patients who rely on lifesaving transfusions,” said Paul Sullivan, senior vice president of donor services for the Red Cross. “If just three more donors gave at each blood drive this summer, we could help the blood supply rebound and ensure hospitals have the blood products they need throughout the remainder of the season.”

Upcoming blood donation opportunities in Westford August 1-Aug. 15:  
8/11/2026: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., First Parish Church, 48 Main Street

Retirement changes everything — especially how you feel about your money. After years of saving, spending can feel uncomfortable. But a clear strategy helps you move forward with confidence.

Start with a conservative budget and give yourself permission to spend those amounts.

Next, consider adding guaranteed income, like an annuity, to create steady cash flow.

A cash cushion helps you avoid selling in down markets, so try to keep about a year of withdrawals in a cash account and three to five years of withdrawals in short-term investments.

Review your plan at least annually and adjust after major life changes.

And stay flexible — adjusting spending when markets decline can help your retirement strategy endure.

With a thoughtful approach, you can help make your savings last and enjoy the retirement you’ve earned. A financial advisor can help you build a strategy tailored to your goals and your lifestyle.

This content was provided by Edward Jones for use by Alan Bell, your Edward Jones financial advisor located at 222 Great Road Suite 8 Littleton, MA 01460. 978-486-1059.
Edward Jones, Member SIPC

*Annuities are long-term investments designed to provide income during retirement. Guarantees are subject to the claims-paying ability of the issuing life insurance company.

 

BOSTON — The Boston Society of Civil Engineers Section (BSCES), which covers American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) membership for all of Massachusetts, released the inaugural 2026 Report Card for Massachusetts’ Infrastructure today, assigning the Commonwealth’s infrastructure a grade of ‘D+’. A grade of ‘D+’ means the infrastructure is in poor condition, at risk, and investment is urgently needed to ensure the reliability and future success of the state’s infrastructure systems. This grade is two steps below the national infrastructure grade of ‘C’ in the 2025 Report Card for America’s Infrastructure. The report covers seven categories of infrastructure: bridges, dams, drinking water, roads, stormwater, transit, and wastewater. Individual chapter grades are below.
The report card finds that Massachusetts’ infrastructure is aging faster than it is being repaired. Many systems are decades older than their intended design life and are facing extraordinary strain from increasingly severe weather, coastal exposure, and other factors. Recent funding at the federal and state level has helped stabilize some infrastructure assets, particularly in the transportation sector. However, sustained, predictable investment is needed to prevent further deterioration and expand an engineering workforce that is currently not large enough to carry out all necessary projects.
Massachusetts’ bridges received a ‘D+’ grade, compared to the national grade of ‘C’. While billions of dollars have been invested to improve bridges across the Commonwealth, bridges are deteriorating faster than they can be repaired. Massachusetts has the oldest bridge inventory in the nation at 65 years. One out of every nine bridge crossings in the state occurs on a bridge that is in poor condition, and more than 500 bridges statewide either have weight restrictions or are closed. MassDOT estimates approximately $1 billion annually over the next decade is needed to address a growing inventory of aging bridges and address a backlog of maintenance projects. 

Massachusetts drivers spend countless hours stuck in traffic on crowded roads across the Commonwealth. The ‘D+’ grade for Massachusetts’ roads is the same as ASCE’s national road grade. Road conditions have deteriorated statewide between 2021 and 2024, with 13.1% of local roads in poor condition in 2024, compared to 9.9% in 2021. While 82.2% of state and interstate highways in Massachusetts are in good condition as of 2024, it is a sharp decrease from 90.7% in good condition in 2021. Deteriorating road conditions cost drivers valuable time and money, approximately $3.8 billion every year in added vehicle costs.

Transit systems in Massachusetts received a ‘C-’, the highest grade in the report card, and is the only category that received a better grade than the national report card. People across Massachusetts have benefited from recent improvement projects that have extended rail service, replaced miles of rail lines, and removed areas where trains faced speed restrictions. Despite this progress, the MBTA still has a $24.5 billion backlog of projects to get systems into a state of good repair.

Water infrastructure in Massachusetts is also at a turning point as aging systems threaten their long-term reliability. Drinking water received a ‘D’ grade in the report card. Massachusetts needs more than $15 billion in drinking water investment over the next 20 years to tackle aging pipes, emerging contaminants like PFAS, and lead service line replacement. Wastewater also received a ‘D’ grade because of aging pipes, some of which were installed in the 1800s, and an estimated $21.7 billion in funding needs, according to the Environmental Protection Agency.

Massachusetts’ dams received a ‘D+’ grade largely due to one of the highest average ages in the nation, 111 years. The design life of a dam is typically 75 years, and 208 dams in the Commonwealth were built before 1900.

The report includes three overarching solutions to raise the grade. They are:
 

• Establish Sustainable, Long-Term Funding Mechanisms: Create predictable transportation, water, wastewater, stormwater, and dam safety funding that keeps pace with rising construction costs and targets the Commonwealth’s growing maintenance backlogs.
• Modernize Regulatory Standards, Project Development, and Performance Metrics: Update permitting, design criteria, asset inventories, and performance metrics so infrastructure projects move faster and are built to withstand today’s climate, safety, and resilience challenges.
• Proactively Invest in Workforce Recruitment and Retention: Invest in recruitment, training, competitive wages, and retention strategies to ensure state and local agencies have the skilled personnel needed to operate, maintain, and improve critical systems.

The report card is a public service to inform citizens and policymakers about the infrastructure needs in Massachusetts. Civil engineers use their expertise and school report card-style letter grades to condense complicated data into an easy-to-understand analysis of Massachusetts’ infrastructure network. ASCE state report cards are modeled after the Report Card for America’s Infrastructure, which is released once every four years.

 

 

Swing Night Returns in August
Join us on August 4 for a high-energy dance concert of timeless big band swing featuring the 18-piece local talent, the Beantown Swing Orchestra. Step back in time as the band brings the golden age of swing to life with a vibrant mix of instrumental and vocal classics. Learn basic swing moves to dance the night away or sit back and enjoy the music with a picnic and a pint on the Lawn. Whether you are a seasoned dancer, a curious beginner, or simply want to take in the sights and sounds, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Art Abounds at the Garden
This summer, local artist Suzan Osborn is back with a captivating new collection of oil paintings inspired by decades of visits to the Garden. Her luminous floral landscapes celebrate color, movement, and quiet beauty, offering fresh perspectives on familiar spaces and blooms. Explore Timeless inside the Visitors Center, then venture into the gardens to experience the shimmering stained-glass and steel sculptures of Glass in Flight. You don't want to miss this dynamic duo of art!

NEW for Families! Free Storytime with Authors
Join us for our new Storytime with Authors series! These free drop-in programs encourage curiosity, observation, and love of the natural world, with opportunities to meet the authors after each storytime. Don't miss this upcoming reading:The Traveling Taco on August 8.

Join Us for Extended Summer Hours!
On Wednesdays, enjoy a peaceful mid-week escape, complete with sunset, dinner and drinks, and a rotating showcase of local breweries and distilleries. Then, don’t miss the fun with live music, a craft beer garden, exciting programs, and plenty of festive summer vibes on Thursdays. Continue the fun with our Crafts & Cocktails series and Lotería Nights on select Wednesday evenings and Botanical Mixology on select Thursdays.

New England Botanic Garden | 11 French Drive | Boylston, MA
WWW.NEBG.ORG / 508.869.6111

 

19 Carter St, Berlin
Weekly Events: Suggested donation $5
Monday A Politics-Free Tea Time 2 - 4pm
Tuesday Armchair Meditation 8 - 8:30am
Wednesday Coffee Hour 9am - 12pm
Wednesday Old Time Music Jam 11am – 1pm (every 2nd and 4th Wednesday)
Wednesday Irish Session 7 - 10pm
Friday Coffee Hour 9am - 12pm
Friday Fiber Arts Group 2 - 4pm
Saturday Social 10am - 1pm

Saturday, August 1 at 11:30am | Veg Group: Fermentation
This month's topic is Small Batch Fermentation with Mary Sullivan! Learn the health benefits of eating fermented foods while learning tips for making small batches. Enjoy some wild and cultivated fermented products! Suggested donation: $5 Questions? Email ricardam@charter.net.

Saturday, August 1 at 7pm | Summer Concert Series: Mark Russell + Friends (Rock/Pop/Blues/Jazz)
Be energized with music by the talented violinist and singer Mark Russell along with bandmates Marc Freeman, Scott Kistenburg, and Moira Applebaum as they perform covers of Sting, Stevie Wonder, and other rock, jazz, and pop favorites. Patrons are welcome to bring their own food and drink.
$25 in advance, $30 at the door, $5 for students, FREE for kids!
Purchase tickets at 19Carter.org/summer-concert-series

Saturday, August 8 at 7pm | Summer Concert Series: Rioflow Trio (Latin-infused Jazz + Salsa)
An instrumental trio that blends Latin American grooves with improvisational flair, delivering a bold take on global musical traditions. Peruvian-born guitarist Carlos Odria has been described as "a breathtakingly talented musician with immense technical skill." - Worcester Telegram
Featuring Carlos Odria on guitar, Thomas Spears on drums and Julian Wagner on bass.
Onsite vendor: Dirigible Brewing Company
Patrons are welcome to bring their own food and drink, and are also invited to purchase beverages from our onsite vendor.
$25 in advance, $30 at the door, $5 for students, FREE for kids!
Purchase tickets at 19Carter.org/summer-concert-series

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 for decades. Now we are continuing weekly on Thursday evenings by remote videoconference. For more information, call Doreen 617-957-0838 or contact paulbaker01@verizon.

     Saturday (7/25) was a sunny and warm day at Fresh Start.  Eight clients were scheduled to arrive to “shop” for items to make their new housing a welcoming home.  We were wondering if we would have a lot of donors bringing items or if everyone would choose to go to the beach instead!  We didn’t count the cars but we had a fairly steady stream of donors, enough to keep us busy but not to be overwhelming.  Our last donor arrived with a car full of good donations.  As we unloaded her car she mentioned that her next stop of the day was at Savers and that she would take items there for us.  She knew that we take donations that we cannot use to Savers.  We had two carts full that we loaded into her car and she kindly delivered them for us.  Full circle of kindness!
     At present Fresh Start needs queen size bed frames, small appliances, lamps, drinking glasses, and shower curtains, hooks and liners.  Check our website above for our location and hours and ways to help us to help others.
     Thank you!

Acton Recreation Department Kids Concert: Jeff Jam on July 28

Get ready for a fun-filled family evening with Jeff Jam at Nara Park from 6:00-7:15PM!
Visit www.actonrec.com for updates throughout the season with direct click to links on EventBrite.

Acton 2026 Summer Concerts Series: Who Are You – The Who Tribute on Friday, July 31
Show starts at 8 p.m. and gates open at 7:00 p.m.  Tickets available online or by credit card only at the gate on the day of the event.
Visit www.actonrec.com for updates throughout the season with direct click to links on EventBrite.

A Junk in the Trunk event will take place on August 1 from 10-11 a.m. at a new location, Stony Brook School, 9 Farmer Way, Westford, MA.
People bring their cars, open their trunks, set out unwanted household items, and freely give away goods, and choose items gifted from others. This is not a drop off event as you must remain on site until items are gifted or donated.
Setup time is no earlier than 9:30 a.m. Gifting and Receiving is 10 a.m. Donation time is 11 a.m.
Supported by Sustainable Westford and the Westford Recycling Commission.
More information: email LauraGranato15@gmail.com

The Littleton Historical Society museum will be open through August 13: Wednesdays 1-4, second Sundays 1-4, and Thursday evenings 6-8. Stop in and check out our permanent collection as well as this year’s Advance Placement U.S. History class displays in the Exhibit Hall. We are located at 4 Rogers St. and have air conditioning!

• Less than 1 in 5 respondents understood that blood cannot be stockpiled because it has a limited shelf life and must be continually replenished through volunteer donors.
• Only about half believed it was very likely that they or someone close to them would need blood one day — even though someone in the U.S. receives a blood transfusion every two seconds.

 

Saturday, July 18, from 9:00 am – 11:00 am
Location: Lawn at 39 Main Street, Westford (across from Muffins on Main)

Volunteer members of the Westford Recycling Commission will show Westford residents how to compost organic material. Composting diverts food wastes from the trash and reduces the high cost of Westford’s trash collection. Organic material can represent up to 20% of the weight of our trash.
Earth Machines composters will be available to Westford residents at the demonstrations for only $25 each at a discount from a state grant. Checks should be made out to the Town of Westford.
At any time, Westford residents can purchase an Earth Machine backyard composter for $25 by contacting Nicole Feliciano at the Dept. of Public Works at 978-692-5520 or by email: nfeliciano@westfordma.gov.

For more information, visit www.westfordma.gov/recycling.
Follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/WestfordRecyclingCommission

A retirement tribute • A family celebration • A community event
Speak with confidence when the moment matters. Mon. 7:15 PM
Jul. 27 (Virtual) • Aug. 10 (In Person) • Aug. 24 (Virtual)
Reuben Hoar Library, Murray Room, Littleton
Free. 2193.toastmastersclubs.org
Mai N. (VPPR): 603-759-8178

The Littleton Historical Society museum will be open through August 13: Wednesdays 1-4, second Sundays 1-4, and Thursday evenings 6-8. Stop in and check out our permanent collection as well as this year’s Advance Placement U.S. History class displays in the Exhibit Hall. We are located at 4 Rogers St. and have air conditioning!

 

10 Lincoln Street, Westford   pcawestford.org

Andrea Kamens - Proclaim Freedom! Jewish tales of Justice and Revolution
$15.00 Adults        $7.00 Children & Students

Join us on Sunday, July 19th from 3:30-4:30 PM for Proclaim Freedom! Jewish Tales of Justice and Revolution. The Biblical quote on the Liberty Bell to "Proclaim Liberty Throughout All the Land Unto All the Inhabitants thereof" comes from a revolutionary Jewish text. Storyteller Andrea Kamens will dive deep into her heritage, sharing traditional and original Jewish tales of sages, tricksters and dreamers.

This collaboration between the Parish Center for the Arts and the Westford Museum will take place on the lawn behind the Westford Museum. Please bring a blanket or a camp chair, drinks and snacks. In case of rain or heat, the event will be held at the Museum or at the PCA and the change will be posted on both the PCA and Museum websites. Please feel free to come early and visit the Museum from 1-3! There will be extra time after the event to ask questions.

Come join the fun! On Sunday, August 9, 2026 the Stow Conservation Trust will run its annual Bike for the Woods charity bike ride event!

There are rides for all ages and ability levels and all are scenic and well marked! Rides range from 5 (particularly good for families with small children) and 14 miles to 25 and 37 miles, which are a little hillier and more appropriate for experienced, adult riders. Want a challenge? There’s a fun, hilly “metric century” of 64 miles! All routes have GPS files available through our website, bikeforthewoods.org, that you can download to your phone or bike computer, and all except the southern half of the 64 mile route are “arrowed” (that means there are painted, directional arrows on the pavement). A limited supply of old fashioned cue sheets are available for the longer rides.

All rides pass by conservation land in Stow and surrounding towns and avoid busy streets. The longer routes (25 and up) pass through Stow, Harvard, Littleton, and Acton, and the 64 mile route adds mileage in Hudson, Bolton and Marlborough. Refreshments are provided at a water stop that you will pass at mile 13 and again (on the 37 and 64) at mile 24.

Register now at bikeforthewoods.org! Advance registration is $25 per adult/$15 per child 12 and under ($55 maximum for a family), day of event registration is $30 per adult/$20 per child ($60 maximum for a family). All proceeds benefit the Stow Conservation Trust and help protect land in Stow! So enjoy a great bike ride, bring the whole family, and benefit a great cause!

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 for decades. Now we are continuing weekly on Thursday evenings by remote videoconference. For more information, call Doreen 617-957-0838 or contact paulbaker01@verizon.

19 Carter St, Berlin
Weekly Events: Suggested donation $5
Monday A Politics-Free Tea Time 2 - 4pm
Tuesday Armchair Meditation 8 - 8:30am
Wednesday Coffee Hour 9am - 12pm
Wednesday Old Time Music Jam 11am – 1pm (every 2nd and 4th Wednesday)
Wednesday Irish Session 7 - 10pm
Friday Coffee Hour 9am - 12pm
Friday Fiber Arts Group 2 - 4pm
Saturday Social 10am – 1pm

Saturday, July 18 at 1:30pm | Documentary Screening of The Ashtabula Train Disaster
Join us for a screening of the PBS Docudrama, "The Ashtabula Train Disaster," known as the Titanic of its time. This story, which takes place in 1876, spans many topics from evolving bridge design, to disaster response, suicide, robbery, and heroism. Lee Tabor will give a short introduction to the film. All are welcome! Suggested Donation: $5

Saturday, July 18 at 7pm | Summer Concert Series: Moe Dixon w/ Seth Asser + Gary Brown (Folk/Blues/Country)
Join us for an intimate evening of song and storytelling. With inspiring original songs, fiery finger-style and ragtime guitar, inventive ukulele playing, and powerful vocals, thousands of listeners have become loyal fans and each show becomes a celebration!
$25 in advance, $30 at the door, $5 for students, FREE for kids!
Purchase tickets at 19Carter.org

Monday, July 20 at 2pm | Chat with Public Health Nurse Sandi!
Stop by to chat with Public Health Nurse Sandi Richard over tea or coffee. A wonderful opportunity to share your thoughts and concerns on all things health! All are welcome.
Saturday, July 25 at 10am | Parody Playhouse
A dynamic music and movement program led by experienced music teacher, award-winning songwriter, and toddler mom Erica Leigh! Bring your kiddoes (ages 0-6) and enjoy parodies of iconic artists with built-in time for caregivers to hang out! Please register in advance at 19Carter.org. Cost: $5 per family, or pay what you can!
Saturday, July 25 at 7pm | Summer Concert Series: Nolan Slate Sextet (Jazz)
Hailing from all corners of New England, The Nolan Slate Sextet keeps it real with fresh arrangements of your favorite jazz artists from the bebop tradition. Nolan grew up right here in Berlin, MA and graduated from Tahanto Regional High School!
$25 in advance, $30 at the door, $5 for students, FREE for kids!
Purchase tickets at 19Carter.org

Sunday, July 26 at 3pm | Braver Angels Workshop: Immigration - Finding Common Ground
Join this workshop led by Braver Angels and find common values across political divides!
The goals of this workshop are to 1) Delve into the single issue of immigration where people differ, and learn how the other side sees the problem 2) Investigate areas of common ground and points of agreement and 3) Learn something that might be helpful to others in our community and the nation. Registration required - visit 19Carter.org.

The Walk 'n Mass Volkssport Club invites you to participate in the Boston—Castle Island walk route on Friday, August 28, and/or Saturday, August 29, 2026. This is a walk-at-your-own pace, just-for-fun event “in your own backyard.” The Castle Island route (choice of 6km or 11km) is specifically designed for these two days as we celebrate the 50th anniversary of the club's parent organization, AVA: America's Walking Club.

The start point is the meeting room adjacent to the lobby in the Courtyard by Marriott – South Boston, 63R Boston Street, Boston MA 02125. Start anytime between 9:00 a.m. -12:00 p.m. and finish by 3:00 p.m.  A specially designed magnet will be given to all registered participants at this special walk event.

The 6km and 11km Castle Island walk routes start and end at the Courtyard Marriott. If you prefer to walk with a group rather than following the written directions to walk on your own, meet in the registration room at 9:30 a.m. on either Aug. 28 or 29. There are two route options for the 6km distance: one goes through Moakley Park and along the water but does not go as far as Castle Island; the other goes to Castle Island and participants take a bus to return to the Courtyard Marriott.

For further information contact Mary at (617) 387-1577 or Carol at (302) 399-6334. The Walk 'n Mass Volkssport Club also hosts three other walk routes in Boston: Freedom Trail, Back Bay, and Special Places/Hidden Gems, which are available throughout the year. On August 28 and 29, you may register in person in the meeting room of the Courtyard by Marriott - South Boston for any of these three events and then take public transportation to the respective walk route start points. Check the club website (www.walknmass.org) for upcoming dates of group walks of these events.

To learn about the 17 special volkssport events happening throughout the United States to celebrate the 50th anniversary of AVA: America's Walking Club, go to www.ava.org and click on AVA 50th Anniversary Events -- or click on Find a Walk to search by state for many other walk opportunities.

The Northborough Community Affairs Committee is pleased to announce the return of our free Summer Concert Series for 2026.  All concerts will be held on Thursdays at Ellsworth-McAfee Park (Rt. 135) in Northborough from 5-7 pm.  There will be a variety of food vendors at every show.

Houston Bernard - Sunday,July 19, 5pm

 The Rotary Club of Littleton's 22nd Annual Appleman Triathlon for Charity is being held on Sunday, July 19, from 8 am-noon.   The Triathlon starts and ends on Long Lake Beach at the foot of Town Road in Littleton, and passes through Littleton and parts of Harvard and Boxborough.
       This challenging event, which involves a half-mile swim, 5 mile bike ride and 3 mile run, is the Littleton Club's largest annual fundraiser.  100% of the net proceeds from the race - including participant fees, donations, and sponsorships from companies and foundations in Littleton and surrounding towns - go primarily to help your neighbors locally, but also help non-profits elsewhere in the country and internationally.    Last year we raised more than $40,000, and hope to do even better this year.
       Attending and watching the race is a lot of fun.  It's also very satisfying to know that all of your efforts are helping individuals and families, children, adults and seniors, and those who are struggling to feed and care for their families.
     Race sponsorships are still available, ranging in price from $500 to $2500, but time is short - we need to know you are becoming a sponsor by July 5, 2026.   Call Judy Grande at 978-807-5831 or email her at judygrande2016@gmail.com and she will get the sponsorship information to you immediately.
      This year's Appleman Triathlon is expected to attract about 500 participants and requires a lot of volunteers (more than 100) to help in various jobs before, during and after the race.  We still need more volunteers!  Would you like to join us as a participant or as a volunteer?  Go to https://www.applemantriathlon.com for more details about the race and to volunteer or register.

 

• First, it’s not going broke: if no action is taken, benefits could drop around 2032, but policymakers have options to strengthen it.
• Second, it won’t replace everything. It covers roughly 40% of your income, so retirement savings are still critical.
• Third, claiming early and working won’t permanently reduce benefits; payments are later increased for reductions that occurred before full retirement age.
• Fourth, if an ex-spouse claims benefits based on your earnings record it doesn’t reduce your benefit.
• And fifth, benefits are still taxable if your combined income exceeds certain thresholds, though some temporary deductions exist.