Action Unlimited

New Tax Laws for 2026 That You Should Know

 
The new year brings more than resolutions – it brings tax changes that could impact your wallet.
There's good news for retirement savers: You can put more into your IRA, 401(k) or other workplace plan this year compared to last year.

If you're a high earner age 50 or older, catch-up contributions must now be made into a Roth account – for tax-free income later.

Health savings accounts also allow more in annual contributions.

When it comes to education savings, the withdrawal rate for 529 plans has doubled. And the list of qualifying expenses includes more options than before.

Charitable giving shifts too: Standard filers can deduct up to $1,000 in cash gifts, while itemizers face new thresholds.

Tax changes can be complex. Work with a qualified financial advisor and tax professional to build strategies that make the most of new opportunities while minimizing your tax burden.
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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. 978-486-1059.

Member SIPC

Edward Jones, its employees and financial advisors cannot provide tax or legal advice. You should consult your attorney or qualified tax advisor regarding your situation.

MOVING-ON

 
MOVING-ON is a social group for singles, mostly age 60 or over, who wish to get to know other people and build friendships.  We hold a weekly meeting every Thursday evening to discuss topics that avoid politics or religion; some meetings are in-person and others are on-line. Members organize fun and interesting group activities around greater Boston, such as plays and concerts, movies, restaurant dining, and nature hikes.  Come join us for an in-person meeting at 7:00 PM on the 2nd or 4th Thursday of the month at The Church of Our Redeemer, 6 Meriam St., Lexington; or for more information email info@moving-on-together.org.
Assabet valley mastersingers1

Please Join the Assabet Valley Mastersingers for Our Second Formal Concert of Our 2025-2026 Season: “Lest We Forget”

Shrewsbury, MA — The Assabet Valley Mastersingers (AVM) is thrilled to announce its March
2026 concert in Shrewsbury, which features James Whitbourn’s “Annelies”, a composition
based on Anne Frank: The Diary of a Young Girl. This performance will stand as a tribute to
Holocaust survivors honoring voices of resilience, memory, and hope.

Event Date: March 8th, 2026
Time: 3:30pm
Location: Robert R. Jay Performing Arts Center (378 Main Street), Shrewsbury, MA
Artistic Director: Dr. Robert Eaton
Soprano: Jess Huetteman

About the Event
“Annelies” is a 75-minute choral work for soprano soloist, choir and instrumentalists that was
composed by British composer James Whitbourn. The libretto is compiled and translated by
Melanie Challenger from The Diary of Anne Frank. Movements from Annelies were first
performed at the National UK Holocaust Memorial Day in Westminster Hall in London in January
of 2005 and the world premiere of “Annelies” was given on April 5th, 2005 at the Cadogan Hall,
London.
The piece is divided into fourteen movements and there will be no intermission during this
performance. In addition to choral and soprano soloist scoring, the instrumental portion is
scored for both larger full symphony orchestra and a smaller chamber version. AVM will perform
the version scored for a full orchestra which is rare. The last time the work was publicly
performed was in 2022 by Princeton Pro Musica.
James Whitbourn passed away in early 2024 and “Annelies” remains one of his most renowned
compositions. In fact, a recording by the Westminster Williamson Voices in 2014 was nominated
for a Grammy award under the Best Choral Performance category, which was one of four
Grammy nominations for Whitbourn during his lifetime. This performance of “Annelies” is
enriched by remarks from Holocaust survivors, honoring their voices and enduring resilience.

Ticket Information:
● General Admission: $25.00
● Senior/Student Price: $20.00
● Children under 12 are free with an accompanying adult.

Tickets can be purchased online at .https://www.avmsingers.org/events/lest-we-forget.
AVM is part of the Massachusetts Cultural Council’s Card to Culture program, which grants
EBT, WIC, and ConnectorCare cardholders access to steeply discounted tickets from a variety
of arts, humanities, and science organizations across the Commonwealth. Cardholders may
order up to four tickets online by applying the promo code MASSCTOC and selecting manual
payment type. The same discounted costs, $5.00 for general or $4.00 for senior/student
admission, are payable at the concert for preordered, or onsite-requested CTOC tickets
Annual free family concert

Worcester Chamber Music Society
Presents Annual Free Family Concert March 8

January 15, 2026   Worcester, MA –  Worcester Chamber Music Society (WCMS) is thrilled to present its Annual Free Family Concert on March 8, 2026, with a performance at 3:00pm at Mechanics Hall in Worcester.  Neighborhood Strings students will perform at the beginning of the concert. Admission is free, but tickets are required.
This year’s Family Concert is brought to you by the letter F. An afternoon of fairy tales, fables, family, friends, and fun is sure to delight the children in your lives (as well as your inner child). Four hands on one piano provide the musical setting for Ravel’s Mother Goose Suite. Navok’s Beauty and the Beast is the world premiere of a fantastic musical retelling of the classic fairy tale. Be sure to reserve your seats early because this one-time-only concert will reach capacity soon.
Sunday, March 8 @3PM
Mechanics Hall
321 Main Street, Worcester
Generously sponsored by Bay State Savings Bank, Cornerstone Bank, Fidelity Bank, Unibank, and Country Bank. This concert is also funded in part by grants from the Shrewsbury Arts Council and the Worcester Arts Council, local agencies funded by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency.
Program
A special performance by Neighborhood Strings Maurice Ravel | Mother Goose Suite
Lior Navok | Beauty and the Beast  – world premiere performance

Featuring WCMS musicians:
Peter Sulski, violin
Mark Berger, viola
Ariana Falk, cello
Randall Hodgkinson, piano

With guests:
Lilit Hartunian, violin / Leslie Amper, piano
Venue is handicapped accessible.
Admission is free, but tickets are required. Reserve early, since this event typically sells out quickly.
Tickets are available at https://worcesterchambermusic.org/fairy-tales-and-fables/ or by calling the WCMS office at (508) 926-8624.

Boston CASA Seeks Volunteers to Advocate for Foster Youth in Suffolk and Middlesex Counties

Virtual information session to take place on January 27 for those interested in joining the spring training cohort
BOSTON, Mass. (January 22, 2026) – Boston CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) is issuing an urgent call for volunteers to advocate on behalf of children in the foster care system. Currently, only 15% of eligible foster youth in Suffolk and Middlesex Counties have access to a CASA — a trained, court-appointed volunteer who provides consistent, one-on-one support and helps shape critical legal and life decisions.
“Imagine facing judges, rotating caseworkers, and endless transitions as a child, without one adult focused solely on what's best for you," said Nicole Stewart, Executive Director of Boston CASA and a former foster youth. "That's what foster youth experience. A CASA changes that equation. We're looking for volunteers prepared to show up consistently, advocate fiercely, and be the person a child can count on."
With virtual information sessions beginning January 27, Boston CASA encourages compassionate adults across the region to attend an upcoming session to learn how they can make a life-changing difference for a child.

What CASAs Do
Unlike mentors or service providers, CASAs are appointed by a judge to focus solely on the best interests of a child in foster care. Each CASA is matched with one child or sibling group and builds a consistent, trusted relationship by meeting with them regularly and staying involved for the duration of the case.
CASAs collaborate with teachers, doctors, foster parents, attorneys, and caseworkers to ensure the child’s needs are met, advocating for essential services, educational support, healthcare access, and permanent housing. They often become the one consistent adult in a child’s life, helping navigate a complex and ever-changing system.
CASAs are asked to commit at least 18 months to the role. Initial training requires 30 hours, with 12 hours of ongoing education each year. Once assigned to a case, volunteers typically dedicate 10 to 15 hours per month to their CASA work.

Why It Matters
The need is urgent:


According to a national study, 92% of judges say CASAs improve outcomes for children, and 83% say CASAs help ensure children receive essential services. But when a youth has a CASA, they are more likely to succeed in school, access vital services, and secure a stable, permanent home.
Eligibility Requirements
  • Have a deep desire to make a difference in a child’s life
  • Be 21 years or older
  • Commit to at least 18 months of service
  • Ability to meet with youth 1-2 times a month at their home or in community
  • Approach difficult situations with compassion and diplomacy
  • Keep personal beliefs separate from their advocacy role


Children in foster care come from all backgrounds, and Boston CASA is committed to building a volunteer community that reflects that diversity. While all are welcome to apply, we’re especially seeking volunteers who speak additional languages, identify as people of color, are men, or are part of the LGBTQ+ community. Your lived experience can make a powerful difference in a child’s life.

Upcoming Info Sessions
Attending an information session is required to apply for the organization’s next volunteer training cycle, which begins in the spring. These sessions will give you an overview of the organization and our work, the application and interview process, as well as more details about the training required to become a CASA.

Sessions will be held virtually on Zoom:
  • Tuesday January 27 12-1:00pm (Last info session before the March training)
  • Tuesday February 10 5:30-6:30pm


Sign up for an upcoming information session HERE. Research shows that just one consistent adult can change a child’s trajectory. For more information or to register for an info session, visit: https://bostoncasa.org/
Nashoba symphonic band

NASHOBA SYMPHONIC BAND FEATURES TRUMPET RHAPSODY

The Nashoba Symphonic Band, under the direction of David Wayne Bailey continues its 10th Anniversary season on Saturday, February 7th at 2 pm in the auditorium of Nashoba Regional High School, Route 117 in Bolton MA (GPS says Green Road). The concert is entitled “On Your Toes,” with most of its selections related to forms of dance.

The program opens with the ragtime dance, Ragged Rozey by veteran band composer Karl L. King, and continues with Warren Benson's haunting Solitary Dancer, and the captivating Italian Polka by Sergei Rachmaninov, scored by Erik Leidzen for the world-famous Goldman Band.

The featured work on the program is the Rhapsody for Trumpet and Wind Orchestra by Armenian composer, Alexander Arutiunian, performed by the NSB first chair trumpet player, Joseph Cosgrove.

The second half of the program opens with Choreography by Robert Sheldon. Sheldon's Wolves of Nashoba, commissioned by NSB, was premiered in May of 2025.
The program concludes with a rousing set of Symphonic Dances from Jerry Bock's timeless “Fiddler on the Roof.”

For further information, contact David Bailey (baileydavidwayne@gmail.com),
Nashoba Symphonic Band is a program of the Nashoba Regional High School. It is supported in part by grants from Ashby, Berlin, Bolton, Lancaster, and Stow Cultural Councils, local agencies supported by the MA Cultural Council, a state agency.

All Nashoba Symphonic Band events are free and open to the public.  

Westford Chorus is proud to present our Concert:

Members' Favorites
Sunday, February 1st, 2026
4:00PM
James Barkovic, Director
Terry Halco, Assistant Director

Trinity Lutheran Church
170 Old Westford Road
Chelmsford, Massachusetts

In-person tickets can be purchased online at westfordchorus.org
Tickets at the door, cash or check only
Adults $25, Seniors $20, Students $10, Children under 5 Free
Venue is accessible

Post-concert recording will be available for this concert
You must register online at westfordchorus.org to receive
the concert recording link after the concert.

Register today!
Antje duvekot to visit pca’s coffeehouse

A Compelling Live Performer, Antje Duvekot to Visit PCA’s Coffeehouse 2/13


WESTFORD, MA: A compelling live performer, internationally recognized Antje Duvekot will be visiting the Parish Center for the Arts (10 Lincoln Street) on February 13 at 7:30pm as part of the PCA’s Coffeehouse Series, sponsored by Rockland Trust. So pack up your favorite snacks and beverages for this evening of songs that are “stunning paintings of color and shade and always generate the heat and light that real art should.” (Neil Dorfsman, producer of Bob Dylan, Bruce Springsteen & Sting). Tickets range from $20-$25. Cabaret seating. For information about this and all upcoming concerts at the PCA, call (978) 692-6333 or visit pcawestford.org.

Originally born in Germany and transplanted to the U.S. as a young teen, Antje Duvekot began to hone her observational skills through a lens of biculturalism when she picked up a guitar during that move. Some years later, the confessional folk of Dar Williams and Ani DiFranco gave her license to share her observations, no matter how personal. Since her first emerging original songs, she has never let go of that tenet of vulnerability. Antje’s five studio albums, including her latest, “New Wild West” were produced by Mark Erelli, Seamus Egan of SOLAS, Richard Shindell and Scott Petito, respectively, and feature support from Anais Mitchell, John Gorka, Lucy Kaplansky, Sean Mullins, Liz Longley, Mark Erelli, and Kris Delmhorst, among others.

Antje has extensive touring experience. She has been invited to play top festivals, such as the Newport Folk Festival, Mountain Stage, Philadelphia, and Kerrville Festivals and others. Internationally, she's headlined the Celtic Connections Festival in Scotland and the Tonder Festival in Denmark. Antje has won some of the top songwriting awards, including the Grand Prize in the John Lennon Songwriting Competition and the "Best New Folk Award" at Kerrville. In one of the nation's top music markets, she won the Boston Music Award for "Outstanding Folk Act". She has appeared on various NPR programs. In 2007, The Bank of America featured Antje's song "Merry Go Round" in a national TV advertising campaign seen by millions, including a Super Bowl audience. In 2010, Antje played the TEDMED conference in San Diego (before the unveiling of Ozzie Osbourne's genome!).

For more information about the PCA and their season, visit pcawestford.org, email admin@pcawestford.org or find them on Facebook, Twitter/X and Instagram!
Direct ticket link: https://parisharts.square.site/product/2-13-26-antje-duvekot/4LCVMAJQX4NEOXLXEFV2IXHP
Parish Center for the Arts
978-692-6333
Spend valentine’s with vintage vocal quartet

Spend Valentine’s with Vintage Vocal Quartet in Special “Date Night” Event


WESTFORD, MA: Grab your sweetheart or a group of friends and spend Valentine’s Day with The Vintage Vocal Quartet! Coming to the Parish Center for the Arts on February 14, the evening will fill your ears and your heart with the swinging harmonies of the Swing Era, when jazz music and pop music were one and the same. You can bring your favorite foods and drinks, or pre-show treat arrangements can be made with Westford Bakery!  Doors open at 7pm for the 7:30pm show.  Dancing is welcome in the Gallery. Tickets are Member $30; Non-Member $35; Member Couple $50 and Non-Member Couple $60. For more information visit pcawestford.org.
The Vintage Vocal Quartet has been delighting concert audiences and lindy hoppers all over New England. They sing while playing piano, guitar, bass and trombone/drums. dialed in to the sound of groups like Glenn Miller’s Modernaires, the Nat King Cole Trio, the Andrews Sisters, and Tommy Dorsey’s Pied Pipers; as well as singers like Bing Crosby, Frank Sinatra, and Ella Fitzgerald. It was a time when every radio blared out music that was danceable yet sophisticated. Get ready to swing with the Vintage Vocal Quartet!

Fun will be had by all, singles, duos and groups in all numbers.  Music, dancing, great food and drinks and even prizes courtesy of donors including Authentic Cuts, Balance Nails, BJs of Nashua, Burton's Grill & Bar, CBC Liquors, Cultivating Qi, Evviva Trattoria, Express Sign & Graphics, Fuchi Asian Cuisine, Good Pickin' Farm, InStyle Hair Designs, Kimball Farms, Muffins on Main, O'Neil Cinemas, Orangetheory Fitness, Pure Barre, Seoul Kitchen,  STIR Martini Bar & Kitchen, Whole Foods & more!

For more information, visit the PCA online at pcawestford.org, or on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Direct Ticket Link: https://parisharts.square.site/product/2-14-26-vintage-vocal-quartet-valentine-s-date-night/EVX662QNM46VBKMJ2QIO2RRZ

Parish Center for the Arts
978-692-6333
Steve zocchi returns to pca with “man vs. piano”

By Popular Demand Steve Zocchi Returns to PCA with “Man vs. Piano”

WESTFORD: The Piano Heritage Series at the Parish Center in Westford presents Steve Zocchi, pianist/humorist in Concert on February 15 with his “Man vs. Piano” concert where the epic battle continues! Relax and enjoy Pianist Steve Zocchi, in an afternoon of levity and virtuosity. A disciple of Victor Borge, Zocchi uses humor and honesty to dissolve the tension and pretense around classical music. Steve’s humorous pre-concert talk at 3:15pm will illuminate hilarious insights into the life of a pianist. The music to follow at 4pm! All ages welcome. This event was a total sellout last season. Advance ticket purchased recommended!  Tickets range from $5 to $20 are available online at https://parisharts.square.site/product/2-15-26-steve-zocchi-man-vs-piano-piano-heritage-series-/95, or at the door (if available).  For more information, visit pcawestford.org or call (978) 692-6333.

Steve Zocchi is a pianist, composer, and music teacher from the Boston area. Steve’s primary musical focus is on J.S. Bach, Mozart, and Improvisation. After receiving his degree in Piano Performance, Zocchi 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 at Harvard Unitarian Universalist Church.

Zocchi 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, Zocchi’s latest release 'Piano Works and Play' as well as his previous CD 'Compositions and Improvisation' include both music composed in the Classical tradition as well as improvised music in several genres.

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

Parish Center for the Arts
978-692-6333
Lwv acton margaret kennedy

LWV Acton Area launches ‘Margaret Kennedy Social Justice Initiative’ Fund


League of Women Voters - Acton Area (includes Littleton) announces the establishment of the Margaret Kennedy Social Justice Initiative Fund in honor of Marge’s passionate commitment to social justice. This multi-year initiative, funded by a generous bequest at her death in December 2022, will continue her commitment to social justice via annual events, public forums, speaker series, and other community building programs.
Margaret (Marge) Kennedy was a long-time League member who served in almost every leadership position, although her greatest satisfaction came from her commitment to educate about the needs of the oppressed and build a sense of belonging in our community.
In addition to her commitment to the League, she actively supported other organizations that promoted affordable housing, meeting basic needs, combating domestic violence and intolerance, and ensuring rights for everyone in our communities.
The League will launch this important initiative by hosting a forum entitled “Restoring the Promise, A Discussion About Immigration Policy and the Path Forward.” It will be led by immigration attorney Antonio Massa Viana who writes, “‘Restoring the Promise’ is a nonpartisan, community-based discussion . . . that invites participants to reflect on the impact of current immigration policies, the ways immigration has shaped our nation, and the constitutional questions that affect both non-citizens and U.S. citizens alike.” It will take place on Saturday, February 28, 2026 from 2 to 3:30 PM EST at the Acton Town Hall, Rm 204.  The event is free and open to the public.  It will be televised on Acton TV or you can participate interactively via Zoom. The link and more information about Atty Viana and the forum’s agenda will be shared closer to the date, so keep watching this space!
The League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan, grassroots organization that encourages informed and active participation in local, state and national government. The League develops positions on issues, but does not support or oppose candidates or political parties. In addition to our long tradition of providing important voter information services, we strive to raise awareness and provide accurate information on social issues such as Immigration Reform to equip voters to make informed choices when voting.
Please visit our website (lwv-actonarea.org) for more information about the League and how to become a member.
Emma's revolution

Emma's Revolution Perform Songs of Hope & Resistance Feb 6


California-based, activist singer/songwriting duo Emma's Revolution will perform Songs of Hope & Resistance, a benefit for immigrant and refugee justice at First Church Unitarian, Littleton at 19 Foster Street, in Littleton, on Friday February 6, at 7pm ET/4pm PT. If you can’t make it in person, attend by live stream with replay. Tickets are $25 in advance, $30 at the door. Livestream are $25. No one will be turned away. For tickets, visit https://tinyurl.com/LittletonFeb6.

Attendees are invited to participate in an informal protest poster contest on Reclaiming Our Democracy, with the audience voting for the winners. Bring your favorite family-friendly protest poster to express outrage, hope, irony, democracy, patriotism, and more.
As independent artists and queer and non-conforming women, Emma’s Revolution has a national presence among communities, organizations and venues that share the duo's vision of valuing people over profit, choosing compassion over violence, demanding accountability and building a more just and sustainable world.

Known for fearless, truth-telling lyrics and melodies you can’t resist singing, Emma's Revolution is the award-winning activist duo of Pat Humphries and Sandy O. Performances feature the duo's signature soaring harmonies and lush acoustic instruments, in songs that span folk to jazz and funk to rock.

Get recharged, inspired and energized in community, justice and song to benefit the International Institute of New England and its work supporting immigrants and refugees for more than half a century.

 “In this intense and unprecedented time, when our rights, norms and democracy are on the line, all of our voices are needed to create the country and the world we want to live in,” said Emma’s Revolution musician Pat Humphries.

Sponsored by First Church Unitarian in Littleton and its Reclaiming Our Democracy task force, which meets monthly to strategize how best to protect our civil rights and the separation of power guaranteed in the U.S. Constitution and Bill of Rights.

Hunger In our Communities

 
For over 40 years, Loaves and Fishes have been providing food to our neighbors in an atmosphere of kindness and respect.  With the help of volunteers and donors, Loaves and Fishes serves the communities of Ayer, Devens, Dunstable, Groton, Harvard, Littleton and Shirley. But regardless of what community people may live in, no one is ever turned away. Last year alone, they served over 1,000 households/3,000 individuals with nutritious groceries.

Would you like to learn more about what drives food insecurity in our region?
Would you like to learn more about how you might have a positive impact?

Learn the answers to these questions and more as Patty Stern, Executive Director of Loaves and Fishes, shares more about their mission and how they address this growing societal need.

Monday, February 2, 7 PM
St. Anne’s Church Hall
75 King Street, Littleton, MA
This event is sponsored by the Blessed Trinity Parish Social Justice Ministry.

RSVP requested but not required to plan for refreshments.
socialjusticeministry@blessedtrinitycatholic.org

Putting your Aging Parents' Wishes First

 
As your parents grow older, it may be time to talk with them about financial and aging issues.

Position these conversations to honor their plans and understand their wishes, so their affairs will be taken care of as they would like.

First, consider health care. Find out if they have limits on medical care and appropriate legal documents, like a health care power of attorney.

Another subject: independence. Have they thought about the need for long-term care?

Also, ask if they have updated wills, revocable trusts and durable powers of attorney, so a trusted person can make financial decisions if they become incapacitated.

Finally, have they left instructions in their will about their funeral preferences?

These are sensitive subjects, but you can get help from other family members or a trusted legal or financial professional.

By raising these issues with your parents, you can help avoid unpleasant surprises — and maybe even create some peace of mind for your family.

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. 978-486-1059.


Member SIPC

Edward Jones, its employees and financial advisors cannot provide tax or legal advice. You should consult your attorney or qualified tax advisor regarding your situation.
Worcester chamber music society 2

Worcester Chamber Music Society Presents February 1 Concert in Worcester


January 20, 2026   Worcester, MA –  Worcester Chamber Music Society continues its 20th Season with a concert titled “Shadow & Light” at Assumption University’s Jeanne Y. Curtis Hall on February 1, which features distinguished guest artist Edwin Barker, former longtime principal bass of the Boston Symphony Orchestra. A reception will follow the concert. Two talented female composers shine brilliantly on this concert, having emerged from the shadows of obscurity. Sofia Gubaidulina defied the Soviet authorities’ artistic demands and was virtually unknown in the West until the 1980s. Despite favorable comparisons to Ravel, Bloch, and Debussy, Rebecca Clarke languished in obscurity until only recently. Wildly popular in its time, Beethoven’s septet in some ways stole the spotlight, overshadowing in his lifetime what he considered some of his greatest works.
Sunday, February 1 @4PM
Jeanne Y. Curtis Hall, Assumption University
500 Salisbury Street, Worcester
Pre-concert talk @3:30 PM
Program
Sofia Gubaidulina | Sonata for Double Bass and Piano
Rebecca Clarke | Piano Trio
Ludwig van Beethoven | Septet
Venues are handicapped accessible.
Tickets are available at https://worcesterchambermusic.org/shadow-and-light/ or by calling the WCMS office at (508) 926-8624.

Upcoming Events at 19 Carter - A Nonprofit and Unique Gathering Place in Berlin, MA

19 Carter Street, Berlin

Weekly Events: Suggested donation $5

Monday: A Politics-Free Tea Time 2 - 4pm
Turn off your TV and stop by for 2 hours of pleasant tea and pleasantries, pastries with good company, and no politics!
Tuesday: Armchair Meditation 8 - 8:30am
Wednesday: Coffee Hour 9am - 12pm
Wednesday: Office Hours with Melissa (Director of the Berlin COA) 10 – 11am (Every 1st and 3rd Wednesday)
Wednesday: Old Time Music Jam 11am – 1pm (every 2nd and 4th Wednesday)
Wednesday: Irish Session 7 - 10pm
Thursday: Afternoon Games 2 - 4pm
Friday: Open Art Studio & Coffee Hour 9am - 12pm
Friday: Fiber Arts Group 2 - 4pm
Saturday: Social 10am - 1pm
Office Hours w Senator Kennedy’s team Every second Wednesday of the month at 11am – 12pm

Visit 19Carter.org for tickets, registration + more info!
We frequently add new upcoming events :)

FEBRUARY 1-7, 2026

Sunday, February 1, 2pm | Music and Stories from Little House on the Prairie
Come enjoy the tunes Laura Ingalls Wilder loved and find out more about the music that was so popular with the pioneers. Cost: Free!

Monday, February 2, 4:30pm | Social Singing with Music Includes
Music Includes brings people of all abilities and identities together for inclusive, high-quality musical experiences. Join us in a safe, joyful space to share songs of all kinds. Select Mondays from Jan 19 - April 27.  Register at nacc.net. Learn more at ldfamusic.com/music-includes.
Monday, February 2, 7:30pm | Open Mic for Comics
Join us for our monthly, laid-back night of comedy brought to you by OMP Productions and the Carnival Personnel Podcast. Comics can sign up for a stand-up slot in advance by emailing openmicpain@gmail.com. Audience welcome! Ages 18+ Suggested donation: $5

Tuesday, February 3, 6pm | Book Launch: When Did We See You? A Lenten Reflection on Poverty and Wealth
Berlin resident Reverend Dr. Elizabeth Mae Magill invites us into an honest conversation about faith, money, and community, posing hard questions about poverty, wealth, and what it means to follow Jesus in an economically divided world. Cost: Free!

Saturday, February 7, 11:30am | Veg Group: Cooking with Plants!
This month guest speaker Tracy Zook will talk about plant foods and recipes especially delicious in February! Suggested donation: $5
Ucc boxborough folk coffeehouse

17th Annual UCC Boxborough Folk Coffeehouse

Saturday, January 31, 7 – 9 p.m.
723 Massachusetts Ave, Boxborough

Save the date! Nothing could be better than shaking off the dark winter chills and enjoying warm, gentle music in the Gathering Room at the United Church of Christ, Boxborough, with friends on a Saturday evening (7 - 9 p.m.).
The UCCB Music Committee invites you to enjoy the many talents of our community and perhaps offer some talents of your own in a traditional folk “coffeehouse” setting. This event is intended to slow us down, warm us up, and bring us together as appreciators of music.
Please contact Peter Senghas (pwsenghas@gmail.com) or Steve Griffin (sgri617@comcast.net) if you would like to participate or if you have a question about this event.
Mac kid summer camp fair 1

Summer Camp & Kids Activities Fair in Westford on February 7

Local parents looking for information on summer camps and kids’ activities will find over 25 programs at the Summer Camp & Kids Activities Fair in Westford on Saturday, February 7. The Fair will take place at Orchard Church, 130 Littleton Rd (Rt. 110), Westford MA from 11 am to 1:30 pm.

Coordinated by Macaroni KID Lowell, the Summer Camp Fair is free to attend.  Families can gather information and talk with representatives from local and overnight camps, summer programs, and local schools offering year-round activities such as sports, STEM, coding, art and more. There will also be kids' activities and giveaways.

Camps exhibiting at the Summer Camp Fair include local favorites such as Good Pickin' Farm, Camp Massapoag, and Teamworks Adventure Camp as well as specialty and overnight camps such as Grotonwood, The Story School, Third Space Kitchen, and Camp Stonewall.  Macaroni KID Lowell also has an online Summer Camp Guide on its website (Lowell.MacaroniKid.com) as a resource for parents who cannot attend the Camp Fair.
For a list of camps attending the Fair, please visit Macaroni KID Lowell at https://lowell.macaronikid.com.  Exhibitor requests and other requests for information can be directed to barbarae@macaronikid.com or (978) 239-3038.

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 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.net

Free Help Filing Your Taxes

 
AARP Foundation Tax-Aide provides tax assistance, free of charge, with a focus on taxpayers who are over 50 and have low to moderate income. You don't need to be an AARP member to use the service. Since 1968, Tax-Aide has helped over 82 million taxpayers receive all the credits and deductions they're entitled to. Our volunteers are IRS-certified every year, so they understand the latest changes and additions to the tax code.  We can prepare and e-file both Federal and state tax returns.

Every year, from early February to mid-April, our volunteers take appointments at host sites around the country. Check with your local senior center or use the AARP Tax-Aide Service Locator Tool at aarp.org/money/taxes to find a site near you. 

Fresh Start Furniture Bank
Www.freshstartfurniturebank.org

Happy New Year!
     Fresh Start Furniture Bank in Hudson served 596 families in 2025!  That’s almost 600 families who had been homeless and not only found housing through agencies but were given everything they needed to make those homes warm and welcoming.  Everything from bed and bath linens to silverware, dish sets, and small appliances to rugs, couches, dressers, dining tables and chairs - all at no cost to them and through the generosity of donors like you!  A lot of donors showed up today and a Girl Scout troop assembled and donated dozens of kitchen starter sets for our clients.
     We are always looking for more volunteers; Fresh Start Furniture Bank is a warm and welcoming and rewarding place to work.  Take a look at our website (above)and join the family!  You’ll be happy that you did!
     Donations of household items (linens, small appliances, kitchenware, lamps, etc.)can be brought to us at 16 Brent Drive, Hudson, MA on Tuesday and Thursday mornings from 8:30-noon.  Furniture can be accepted on Thursday mornings from 8:30-10:30 and household items until noon.  Donated items do not need to be new but they need to be in good shape.  If you wouldn’t give it to a good friend, don’t give it to our clients!
     You will find lists of most needed items on our website, and links to Amazon and Target Wishlists under Other Ways to Donate.
     Let’s make it a happy new year for more families!  Thank you!
Littleton middle school shrek

Littleton Middle School Presents Shrek Jr.
The Musical

Set off on a fairy tale adventure with Shrek as Littleton Middle School presents their production of Shrek Jr. the musical. Performances will be held Friday, January 23rd at 7PM, Saturday, January 24th at 2PM and Sunday, January 25th at 2PM. All shows will be performed at Littleton High School. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased at the door or at lmsdrama.org
Westfordchorus poster

Westford Chorus Presents a Program of "Members' Favorites" February 1

For its midwinter concert this year, the Westford Chorus presents a program of "Members' Favorites."

The concert will be performed on Sunday, February 1, 2026, at 4:00 PM, at Trinity Lutheran Church, 170 Old Westford Road, Chelmsford, MA. Tickets are available at westfordchorus.org or at the door. Ticket prices are $25 for adults, $20 for seniors (65+) and $10 for students. Children under five will be admitted for free. The venue is accessible. If you can't attend in person, register at westfordchorus.org for a link to the recording.

Jim Barkovic, Music Director, explained the origin of the unusual program: "It all started at a rehearsal last spring. I set out a pen and a pad of paper and invited the Chorus members to write their favorite pieces or genres of choral music. An extraordinary thing happened—the members filled THREE PAGES with their favorite choral pieces!  As a result, in this concert you'll get to experience many of the Chorus members' faves—a list representing 450 years of choral music!"

Since its founding in 1983, the Westford Chorus has transcended the boundaries of community chorus by performing diverse and challenging works ranging from Mozart's Requiem to P.D.Q. Bach's The Seasonings, from Renaissance polyphony to Spanish Christmas carols, from Carl Orff's Carmina Burana to 1940s swing, to costumed productions of favorites such as Gilbert and Sullivan's Pirates of Penzance, Mozart's The Marriage of Figaro, and Bizet's Carmen. The Chorus has sung with orchestral backup, 18-piece swing bands, jazz combos, and eclectic world music groups.

Westford Chorus is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization funded by members and supporters and supported in part by grants from the Westford Cultural Council and Chelmsford Cultural Council, local agencies supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency.
Benefit concert for new organ

A Benefit Concert for the Purchase of a New Organ

On Sunday, January 25th at 4 p.m. organist Katherine Ou will perform an organ concert at The Lutheran Church of the Savior.  Katherine has been serving as the organist for four years.  She began her training at the age of 13 in Waco, Texas.

The program will include a seldom-heard but dazzling baroque chorale partita by Georg Dietrich, an inspiring Organ Sonata, a work by living British composer Tom Scott, the stirring “Variations on The Star Spangled Banner" by Dudly Buck and "Yankee Doodle" by New England organist Fred Feibel.
Admission is free.  Reservations are not required.  There will be a light reception following the concert and a Freewill Offering to help purchase a new organ.

Location: Lutheran Church of the Savior, 426 Davis Road, Bedford, MA
More funny at the pca 2

More Funny at the PCA with Comedy Open Mic Night #3

WESTFORD, MA: The second of the season, the Parish Center for the Arts (PCA) is holding another Comedy Open Mic night on February 7 at 7:30pm! These mic nights are open to the public ($5 suggested donation), and all are welcome. You can bring your funny (if slots are available) and take the stage, or just come to watch (and laugh)! Each night will have different guest host; each night will have special guest comedians; and each night has 12 5-minute slots for local stand-up folks to sign up and present a set. It’ll be fun for all!

On February 7, we're excited to welcome host Wayne Russell! Wayne Russell is a stand-up comic based in Boston, known for his unique blend of everyday life humor and the oddities of life. He has been performing for over 20 years, drawing inspiration from his experiences and the weirdness in his life. Fans can catch Wayne Russell at various venues, including the Tupelo Music Hall, where he hosts a Valentine's Day show. His comedy showcases a mix of personal anecdotes and comedic observations, making him a beloved figure in the comedy scene.
Remaining Comedy Open Mic dates include June 20, 2026 with Jenni Fitz. For more information about the PCA's Comedy Open Mics, be it as an audience member or if you interested in a slot at the mic, email admin@pcawestford.org or visit pcawestford.org and click on Performances; Comedy! You can also find the PCA on Facebook, Twitter/X and Instagram!
Ticket link: https://parisharts.square.site/shop/comedy/4MARKKLWR4LGVPZ4YHVLDAGW

Parish Center for the Arts
978-692-6333
Andrew campanella

Andrea Kamens Invites All to Sunday Afternoon Accessible, Family-Friendly Storytime

WESTFORD, MA: Online and in-person, always interactive, Storyteller Andrea Kamens is known for her fairy, folk and trickster tales, original and custom stories that cater to family-friendly audiences of all ages and special needs. Parish Center for the Arts is thrilled to bring Kamens to the PCA Stage at 10 Lincoln Street on February 8 at 4pm. So pack up your favorite snacks, beverages and listening ears, and mark your calendars for an afternoon of story time engagement! Tickets range from $20-$25. Cabaret seating. For information about this and all upcoming concerts at the PCA, call (978) 692-6333 or visit pcawestford.org.
Andrea Kamens tells traditional, original, Jewish, and first-person stories that tremble with truth. Based in Boston and Zooming everywhere, she’s a host, emcee and feature coordinator at The Story Space, New England's longest running weekly venue started by Brother Blue and Ruth Edmonds Hill, and founding director of ASST’s Youth Standing Strong Camp, an online global story arts camp where youth and mentors meet across all borders to share their stories. Andrea is a religious school teacher, teaching artist, writer, mom of five, and decades-long community volunteer who loves a well-run meeting, a jump in the ocean, an inclusive event that bends the arc to justice, and traveling to meet you!
For more information about the PCA and their season, visit pcawestford.org, email admin@pcawestford.org or find them on Facebook, Twitter/X and Instagram!
Direct ticket link: https://parisharts.square.site/product/2-8-26-andrea-kamens-storyteller/PXW7AZ2L4W3JH7RCS7DA6X2R

Parish Center for the Arts
978-692-6333
Glcf emergency food grants2

$200,000 GLCF Emergency Food Grants Reach 80,000+ Residents as Organizations Report Unprecedented Demand

LOWELL, MA – One month after the Greater Lowell Community Foundation distributed $200,000 in emergency food grants to 15 organizations across its 21-community service area, impact statements reveal the unprecedented scale of food insecurity gripping the region – and the critical role these funds are playing in meeting exploding demand.

In Massachusetts, nearly 800,000 residents – including 240,000 children – face food insecurity, with working families increasingly unable to afford basic groceries despite employment. According to Feeding America’s 2024 Map the Meal Gap study, 11.2% of Massachusetts residents struggle with food access as grocery prices have risen 25% since 2020 while wages have failed to keep pace (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). In Greater Lowell’s 21 communities, thousands of employed residents now earn too much to qualify for SNAP benefits yet too little to cover rent, utilities, and food – creating a modern “working poor” crisis affecting families throughout the region.

The 15 grant recipients collectively serve more than 80,000 individuals each month, distributing millions of pounds of food through pantries, meal programs, home delivery services, and school-based initiatives. Their impact statements paint a vivid picture of communities in crisis – and organizations working at maximum capacity to respond with compassion and efficiency.

Crisis-Level Demand Surge

Organizations across the region reported unprecedented increases in need:
  • Project Kompass serving Lowell's under-resourced Jackson-Appleton-Middlesex neighborhood, reported shocking increases in working poor families unable to afford nutritious food despite full-time employment.
  • Bedford Food Bank saw demand surge 60 to 70% from the previous year, now serving 220-250 households weekly and distributing approximately 9,000 pounds of food each week.
  •  
  • PACH (Pepperell Aid from Community to Home) distributed 76,665 pounds of food in 2025 – a 23.5% increase from 2024 – serving 212 households representing 1,473 individuals.
  •  
  • People Helping People in Burlington enrolled 31 new clients since the government shutdown, putting strain on financial resources for essential staples like milk, eggs, bread, and fresh produce.
  •  
  • Loaves & Fishes Food Pantry opened its doors to federal employees impacted by the shutdown, supporting over 60 additional households.
“These grants represent more than emergency funding – they represent our community’s commitment to ensuring no family faces hunger alone,” said Jay Linnehan, President and CEO of Greater Lowell Community Foundation. “The impact statements we’ve received demonstrate both the severity of this crisis and the extraordinary dedication of our partner organizations responding with compassion and efficiency.”

Working Families Priced Out of Grocery Stores

Tracy, volunteer coordinator of the Open Pantry of Greater Lowell, understands the issue of food insecurity isn’t just a problem for “poor” people. “Anyone can find themselves here at the pantry in need of food. Anyone. Nobody should be embarrassed. We are here to help, no matter your circumstances.”

Merrimack Valley Food Bank’s Operation Nourish program delivers food weekly to every Lowell public school. School personnel report that entire families are now seeking help through school food pantries. “There has been an uptick in pantry use and phone calls from parents asking for food,” reported Lowell public school personnel. “Parents often start their phone calls by apologizing for their circumstances, either a layoff, or cost of living increases that price out groceries. One parent called in and pleaded, ‘We have nothing. Anything, and I mean anything, would help.’”

Jennifer Aradhya, GLCF’s Vice President of Marketing, Programs & Strategy, emphasized the Foundation’s ongoing commitment: “The impact statements we’ve received confirm what we knew – this crisis demands sustained response. Every organization is working at maximum capacity with unprecedented compassion and efficiency. Our role is to ensure they have the resources to continue this essential work to help anyone in need, including these hardworking families in our community.”

New Year’s Financial Resolutions: Making Them Stick

Millions of Americans set money-related resolutions each January, such as saving more or reducing debt.

But too many resolutions fade quickly.

A 2023 Forbes Health poll found that over half of people give up on their resolutions by April.

The issue isn’t necessarily motivation. It could be execution.

Here are some things to consider.

Vague goals like “save more” often fail. Instead, set specific, measurable targets like, “Save $100 a month.”

You might also focus on just one or two priorities: building an emergency fund, increasing retirement plan contributions or paying down debt.

Then, track your progress regularly and break big goals into small steps. Each win builds momentum to reach the next goal.

Finally, find an accountability partner or work with a financial advisor to stay on track.

The new year offers a fresh start. With clear goals, a realistic plan and the support you need, 2026 could be the year your financial resolutions finally stick.

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, 978-486-1059.

Edward Jones, Member SIPC

Edward Jones, its employees and financial advisors cannot provide tax or legal advice. You should consult your attorney or qualified tax advisor regarding your situation.
Andrew campanella

What Families in Massachusetts Should Know About Their School Options


By Andrew Campanella

All parents in Massachusetts and across America want their children to thrive in learning environments that reflect their diverse interests, talents, and individual challenges.

That’s why one in five parents last year enrolled at least one of their children in a new K–12 school. In fact, the process of moms and dads actively choosing how and where their children learn—often referred to as school choice—reached a five-year high in 2025.

Meanwhile, more than 60% of parents say they are likely to consider a new school for at least one of their children in 2026—suggesting another active year for families making enrollment decisions. What that means for your family depends, in large part, on where you live.

In Massachusetts, parents have more education options than they may realize. In addition to assigned traditional public schools, the Bay State has taken steps in recent years to give families more flexibility in choosing schools.

Within the public education system, tuition-free schooling options include charter schools (available in some areas), theme-based magnet schools (available in select communities), and full-time online schools with district approval. In some districts, parents may also be able to send their children to traditional public schools outside of their zones, if seats are available.

Parents can also consider private schools, which charge tuition and sometimes offer scholarships to help make private education more affordable. Finally, Massachusetts moms and dads have the freedom to educate their children at home, and some families pair homeschooling with learning pods or Montessori-style microschools.

If you want to explore these education options in advance of the 2026–27 school year, the time to begin that process is now. National School Choice Week begins January 25, with 265 school events across Massachusetts, including school fairs, open houses, parent nights, and information sessions.

Before starting your search, it can help to pause and write down your goals for your child and what you want in an ideal learning environment. Doing so helps center the process on what—and who—really matters: your daughter or your son. When possible, visit schools and schedule tours or meetings with staff. Research shows that parents who visit schools in person are twice as likely to enroll their children in a new school as parents who search without touring or visiting.

During those visits, ask questions. One of the most common mistakes parents make is accepting education jargon—of which there is plenty—at face value. If you do not understand a term, a reference to curriculum or instructional methods, or a school policy, ask for clarification until you do. You may also want to talk with other parents about their experiences, while keeping in mind that their perspectives are shaped by their own child’s unique needs.

And remember: you know your child better than anyone else. When it comes to your child’s well-being, you are the expert. Finding the right school is not about choosing what works for everyone—it’s about choosing what fits your daughter or son best.

To access a free guide to K–12 school choice options in Massachusetts, visit https://myschoolchoice.com/massachusetts.

Andrew Campanella is the CEO of the National School Choice Awareness Foundation, the nonprofit organization that coordinates National School Choice Week, Navigate School Choice, and Conoce tus Opciones Escolares. He is also the author of The School Choice Roadmap: 7 Steps to Choosing the Right School for Your Child.
Tom denney nature camp1

Tom Denney Nature Camp Register Now!

The camp in Bolton is for students entering Kindergarten through High School.
Activities include swimming, games in the fields and woods, arts & crafts, songs, tracking, hiking, campfires to roast hot dogs and marshmallows, building shelters, Animal Adventures, Predator and Prey, Amazon Adventure & more.
Campers entering grades 6th-9th in the Eco Adventures program will play kayaking games on the pond, nighttime activities on Thursday and dinner and s'mores, water guns, an adventure hike, team building activities & more.
Counselors-in-Training must be entering 9th grade or above and attend Orientation June 23-25 and then choose two weeks or more to be at camp.
There are 6 weekly sessions that run June 29 – August 7, Monday - Friday, 9am - 3pm.
After Care is available until 4:30pm.
Campers from all towns are welcome!
See the website for more details and to register: tomdenneynaturecamp.org
Questions: bcttdnc@gmail.com (best means of communication) or 978-245-6929 (voice mail)

Groton Grange Contra Dance February 7, 2026

Groton Grange #7 invites you to our traditional New England Contra Dance on Saturday, February 7, 2026 from 7:30 - 10:00 PM , at Historic Groton Grange Hall, 80 Champney Street. This will be an evening of live music and dancing with Groton's own Contra  Banditos, along with caller Dudley Laufman,  who  will teach traditional New England style contra, square, and line dances to the beat of old time fiddle tunes. Beginners are welcome, no experience or partner is necessary.  Suggested donation at the door is $5.00  per person, children under  3  years old are free, and family maximum is $20.  Made possible by a  grant from the Town of Groton lecture Funds. Refreshments are provided. Bring your soft soled dancing shoes .Parking allowed only on the Grange side of Champney St.

Nashoba Valley Neighbors Event on January 24

Looking for a fun evening?

Join the Nashoba Valley Neighbors for a wine tasting and warm winter meal, with lots of fun people interested in an evening out and a nice dinner at a local restaurant.  The NVN are joining a wine tasting at The Westford Wine & Spirits in Westford at 5 pm Saturday, January 24, and dinner at the nearby Evviva Trattoria at 6:30.  Please feel free to join us for either or both, but we ask that you respond by Thursday, January 22 at noon.

If you would like more information, or to join us, please RSVP to info@nashobavalleyneighbors.org

The Nashoba Valley Neighbors Club is a non-profit social organization open to new and established residents from such town as Acton, Boxborough, Chelmsford, Groton, Littleton, Westford, Maynard, and Harvard, but we welcome 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.  We hope to see you!
Habitat for humanity

Habitat for Humanity NCM Celebrates Home Dedication in Leominster

Leominster, MA – Thursday, January 8, 2026 — Due to inclement weather, Habitat for Humanity North Central Massachusetts rescheduled the Home Dedication Ceremony at 75 Tenth Street in Leominster for Thursday, January 8. During the ceremony, Habitat for Humanity NCM proudly presented the keys to Gwen and her family, officially welcoming them into their new home.
This home is the result of strong community partnerships and generous support. Habitat for Humanity North Central Massachusetts expresses sincere appreciation to the many supporters who helped make this home a reality, including:
City of Leominster; North Central Massachusetts Housing Authorities; Amica; Law Office of Attorney David Rocheford; McCarty Companies; Brideau Energy; EXIT Assurance Realty; Architect Luke McKneally; Wells Fargo; City of Leominster Housing Department; City of Fitchburg Housing and Development; Adobe; Charlesbank Homes; MMBA; Whirlpool; North Central Massachusetts Community Foundation; IC Credit Union; and Granite City Electric.
A special thank you is extended to the students and instructors at Leominster Center for Technical Education Innovation for their hard work and dedication, as well as Hannaford and AllTown Fresh for generously providing delicious treats for the celebration.
“Today is a powerful reminder of what is possible when a community comes together with a shared purpose,” said Carolyn Read, Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity North Central Massachusetts. “This home represents stability, hope, and opportunity for Gwen and her family, and we are deeply grateful to our partners, volunteers, and supporters who made this moment possible.”
Habitat for Humanity North Central Massachusetts offers a hand up, not a hand out to hard-working, low-income families seeking affordable homeownership. Affordable homes are built in partnership with families, donors, and volunteers who share our vision of a world where everyone has a decent place to live.
We wish Gwen and her family a lifetime of happiness and cherished memories in their new home.
Looking ahead, Habitat for Humanity North Central Massachusetts will begin construction on a multifamily home in Acton very soon. For more information or to learn how to get involved, please contact our office.

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 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.net

Help Support People Affected by Domestic Violence in Our Communities

CONCORD, MA – Domestic Violence Services Network, Inc. (DVSN) is pleased to announce a FREE Volunteer Advocate Training program for interested community members. DVSN advocates provide emotional support, risk assessment and safety planning for victims of domestic violence in our 13 partner communities.

The 40-hour training is designed to familiarize volunteers with the many aspects of domestic violence and give them the skills necessary to provide confidential and appropriate services to DVSN’s clients. Once trained, DVSN’s volunteer Advocates provide direct service over the phone, at Concord District Court, and at Emerson Hospital to people affected by domestic violence.

The March 2026 training will be held at the Lexington Police department starting on March 2 through
March 20: Monday and Wednesdays from 4:00 PM to 7:15 PM and Fridays from 9:15 AM to 3:30 PM. For those who decide to activate as volunteer advocates, there is an additional 10 to 12 hours of supervised field training at the completion of the classroom segment.

The training is provided at no cost to attendees. All necessary materials will be provided. For more
information about the training or to request an application, call (978) 318-3421 or send an e-mail to
training@dvsn.org. Applications are due no later than Wednesday, February 18, 2026.
To learn more about DVSN and its programs, services, and events, visit DVSN.org.

DVSN member communities: Acton, Bedford, Boxborough, Carlisle, Concord, Lexington, Lincoln, Maynard, Stow,Sudbury, Wayland, Weston and Hanscom Security Forces.
Pca welcomes the drum nomads

PCA Welcomes The Drum Nomads for Performance & Interactive Drumming Circle in One Show

WESTFORD, MA: All the rhythm and beats will be happening at Parish Center for the Arts on January 23, 2026 at 7:30pm when they welcome The Drum Nomads to 10 Lincoln Street (on Westford Common). Tickets to this family-friendly performance are $20 for Members; $22 for Non-Members; $25 at the door (if available). Seating will be in cabaret style. BYOB and snacks. Doors open one half hour prior to the show. Advance reservations are recommended. Visit pcawestford.org to reserve your seats.
The Drum Nomads, led by Creative Director Dave Curry is a performance ensemble that specializes primarily in playing rhythms from many different cultural sources, using a wide variety of drums and percussion instruments. In addition to being drummers, each member of the group is also able to play melodic instruments which augment the rhythms, adding an exciting musical dimension. They love working with dancers and flow artists as a means of adding visual appeal to their exotic sound.  This performance will be one part performance; one part interactive audience Drumming Circle!

PHOTO: Drum Nomads Creative Director Dave Curry

Direct Ticket Link: https://parisharts.square.site/product/1-23-26-drum-nomads/Z2UDNM3UVXWZHWZ55QF3WPUP

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

Parish Center for the Arts
978-692-6333
Harmonies abound when merrimack valley a cappella

Harmonies Abound When Merrimack Valley A Cappella Take the PCA Stage January 24

WESTFORD, MA: The Parish Center for the Arts will be filled with harmony and song on January 24, 2026 at 7:30pm when Merrimack Valley A Cappella takes the stage at 10 Lincoln Street (on Westford Common). Tickets to this family-friendly performance are $20 for Members; $22 for Non-Members; $25 at the door (if available). Seating will be cabaret style. BYOB and snacks. Doors open one half hour prior to the show. Advance reservations are recommended. Visit pcawestford.org to reserve your seats.
With “50 Years of Changing Lives Through Song,” Merrimack Valley A Cappella (MVA), previously known as Merrimack Valley Chorus, is based in Andover (MA). They are an award-winning chorus that performs throughout greater Boston and southern New Hampshire. MVA is a proud member of Sweet Adelines International, the largest nonprofit women’s singing association in the world, welcoming women from all backgrounds who enjoy high quality vocal harmonies with energetic visual presentation in both the barbershop and contemporary genres. The women of MVA celebrate the joy of singing and achieve musical excellence through continuing education and performance while fostering individual growth. They are the Season 1 Adult Large Group Champions of Sing That Thing!
This event is sponsored by the Don and Patti Mason Community Fund
Direct Ticket Link: https://parisharts.square.site/product/1-24-26-merrimack-valley-a-cappella/76LU6GSWP2UGD3SIAHVJGB6H

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

Parish Center for the Arts
978-692-6333

Please Come Donate BLOOD or PLATELETS 
(And a have chance to win a trip to Super Bowl LX!)

Cornerstone Congregational Church is sponsoring our next blood drive with the American Red Cross on Saturday, January 17 from 9AM to 2PM. Each pint of blood we collect can help save up to three lives and will touch the lives of so many more. What a great way to pay it forward and make an impact on people in our community and across the country. An estimated 38 percent of Americans are eligible to give blood or platelets, but of those, less than 10 percent actually donate each year. If you are healthy and eligible, please come out to donate. Most donations take about an hour, so book your appointment, roll up your sleeve and become a part of the lifesaving mission of the Red Cross.
Thank you!!

Cornerstone Congregational Church
32 Graniteville Road
Westford, MA 01886
For an appointment, please visit redcrossblood.org
Or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
High energy stellar artistry

High Energy & Stellar Artistry is What You’ll See & Hear at 1/31 Fódhla Performance

WESTFORD, MA: Enjoy the sounds of Ireland on 1/31 when Celtic trio Fódhla performs at The Parish Center for the Arts at 7:30pm. Tickets are $20 for Members; $22 for Non-Members; $25 at the door (if available). Seating will be cabaret style with dancing in the Gallery (should the mood hit). BYOB and snacks. Doors open one half hour prior to the show. Advance reservations are recommended. Visit pcawestford.org to reserve your seats.

Fódhla proper is a protective Spirit of Ireland. Fódhla, the trio, brings both high energy and stellar artistry to the traditional music stage. Their sound is firmly rooted in the traditional Irish melodies and ornamentation that fiddler Ellery Klein and flute player Nicole Rabata honed during years spent abroad in Ireland’s Cork, Limerick and Ennis. Fiddle and flute tunes are superbly supported by guitarist Bethany Waickman, whose inventive, tasteful chords unfold with driving rhythm perfected from years of playing for contradances. Cognizant of their North American roots, Fódhla aims to appeal to a broad audience by bringing variety, inventive harmonies and unique arrangements to traditional music. A typical concert starts off with high-energy traditional sets of Irish reels and jigs, includes trade melody and harmonies and a joyful and toe-tapping pair of barn dances soaring out on a high note. Finally, the soft notes of guitar bring in a melancholy, exquisite slow air – music that brings out audible sighs from a rapt audience.

Direct Ticket Link: https://parisharts.square.site/product/1-31-26-f-dhla/WSS5TL5HBMM3QDLKKOFE3YFD

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

Parish Center for the Arts
978-692-6333

Littleton Lyceum: The Oak Hill Project

The Littleton Lyceum will present The Oak Hill Project: From Lady Slippers to Slippery Slopes
on Friday, January 9, at 7:30 pm in Littleton High School’s Performing Arts Center at 56 King St.
Littletonian Bernadette Morey Stockwell will show her vivid slides of the results of a family
challenge during covid to hike the Oak Hill Conservation Land daily for a year. This all-ages
presentation blends visuals and story-telling, celebrating how the experience grew into a shared
discovery of place, community, and meaning.

Family season tickets are available for $40.00, and single tickets may be purchased at the door
for $12.00, seniors and students for $5.00.

For more information, check out our website at littletonlyceum.org or follow us on Facebook or X

Prevent a Winter Blood Shortage:
Give Blood or Platelets Now

 
Donors have chance to win trip to Super Bowl LX during National Blood Donor Month
Red Cross, Saquon Barkley huddle up for a lifesaving play in January

BOSTON, Jan. 5, 2026 — The American Red Cross is teetering on a blood shortage this winter, which could lead to a disruption in lifesaving care. Donors are urged to make an appointment to give blood or platelets now.

The Red Cross blood supply is under pressure following a busy holiday season when winter weather and packed schedules made it even tougher to ensure hospitals have the blood products needed for critical care. Without immediate action, doctors may have to make difficult decisions about which patients receive blood transfusions and who will need to wait. Donors with types O, A negative and B negative blood are especially needed now.

Don’t wait – make an appointment to give blood or platelets now by visiting RedCrossBlood.org, downloading the Red Cross Blood Donor App or calling 1-800-RED CROSS.

For the seventh year, the Red Cross and the National Football League (NFL) are partnering in January for National Blood Donor Month to urge individuals to kick off 2026 with a blood donation. As a thank-you to donors for helping address the need for blood during the critical post-holiday time, those who come to give Jan. 1-25, 2026, will be automatically entered for a chance to win an exciting Super Bowl LX giveaway. The winner and guest will get to enjoy Super Bowl LX in Santa Clara, California, access to day-of in-stadium pregame activities, tickets to the official Super Bowl Experience, round-trip airfare, three-night hotel accommodations (Feb. 6-9, 2026), plus a $1,000 gift card for expenses. For full details, visit RedCrossBlood.org/SuperBowl.

Join a lifesaving team
The Red Cross and Pro Football Champion and blood donor Saquon Barkley are teaming up to remind donors that the best offense against a winter blood shortage is making and keeping blood donation appointments. The blood supply can drop quickly – now’s the time to get in the game and give blood or platelets.

"I gave blood once in college and that was the only time I had ever been asked to give, until the Red Cross reached out this fall,” said Barkley. “It was a no-brainer for me to give again. It only takes about an hour and once you realize in that short amount of time how much help it can bring – it’s a beautiful thing."

Upcoming blood donation opportunities Jan. 5-31:

Westford
1/5/2026: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., First Parish Church, 48 Main Street
1/15/2026: 1 p.m. - 6 p.m., H.E. Fletcher Club, 11 Brookside Rd
1/17/2026: 9 a.m. - 2 p.m., Cornerstone Congregational Church, 32 Graniteville Rd
1/18/2026: 9 a.m. - 2 p.m., Roudenbush Community Center, 65 Main Street
1/30/2026: 8:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m., Nashoba Valley Technical High School, 100 Littleton Road
Sing dance at suzanne buell’s

Sing & Dance at Suzanne Buell’s PCA Gospel Connection 1/17


WESTFORD, MA: Don't miss a stunning musical experience when local favorite Suzanne Buell brings an extraordinary group of singers and musicians in the most recent evolution of her Gospel journey through traditional spirituals and stirring gospel music! To be held at Parish Center for the Arts (10 Lincoln Street) on January 17, 2026 at 7:30pm, this event’s tickets are $20 for Members; $22 for non-Members; and $25 at the door (if available). Seating will be cabaret-style. BYO food and drink. Doors open one half hour prior to the show. Advance reservations are recommended. Visit pcawestford.org to reserve your seats.
In The Gospel Connection, not only does Suzanne Buell explore the roots of the traditional spiritual and historic gospel that defined the Civil Rights movement, but also the musical connections that inspire contemporary artists. Buell, a former Stax recording artist and graduate of Boston Conservatory, leads this project with a 7-piece band including David Hunte on keyboard and vocals, Phil Antoniades on drums and percussion, Mike Payette on bass and vocals, Chris Leadbetter on guitar, mandolin and vocals, Vicki Zelski on vocals, Russell Watts on vocals, and Buell on lead vocals. In their repertoire, you’re likely to hear music by artists like Sister Rosetta Tharpe, Mavis Staples, Aretha Franklin, and Bob Dylan. The concert is a celebration of the musical traditions that is a must-see for fans of gospel music and history. You'll be moved to dance and sing along - both of which are strongly encouraged.
A graduate of Boston Conservatory and manager of the Threshold Singers at Groton Hill Music, Suzanne Buell appears as a regular soloist in the Boston Pops Gospel Choir and the Millennium Gospel Choir. Her CD “Tell the World” was recorded in Memphis (TN) in 2001. She is a featured lead vocalist in several professional bands locally and records for Hundreds Records.
Direct Ticket Link: https://parisharts.square.site/product/1-17-26-the-gospel-connection/JYRC47DIWI4Z6V632NFU7NCD

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

Parish Center for the Arts
978-692-6333

Take Control: Why Budgeting Doesn’t Have to Feel Restrictive

 
Budgeting doesn’t have to feel restrictive. In fact, it can be empowering. A budget simply helps you understand your money flow and align it with what matters most.

You might need a budget if you're starting out in life, spending more than you earn or working toward a big goal like buying a home or retiring. Major life changes — marriage, a new baby, job or retirement — are also great times to reassess.

Start small: track your income and expenses for 30 minutes a week. Pair it with something enjoyable to make it easier. Use apps or spreadsheets to simplify the process.

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Whether you prefer detailed categories or broad ones, find what works for you.

Review regularly and adjust as life changes. The goal isn’t perfection — it’s progress. A good budget frees you to spend wisely on what matters the most and save with confidence.

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, 978-486-1059.

Edward Jones, Member SIPC

Edward Jones, its employees and financial advisors cannot provide tax or legal advice. You should consult your attorney or qualified tax advisor regarding your situation.

The Acton Community Chorus Presents Our Winter Concert, I Hear The Stars Still Singing

The Acton Community Chorus presents our winter concert,  I Hear The Stars Still Singing, a constellation of contemporary choral music contemplating the stars and the ways they guide our lives, featuring a multi movement work by Kenneth Riggs called "Starlight Songs", plus written works by other living composers such as J. Michael Saunders, Jacob Narverud, Susan LaBarr, and Victor C. Johnson. The concert will be held on Saturday, January 10, 2026 at 4pm at the Acton Congregational Church with an inclement weather date of Sunday, January 11th at 4pm. Tickets are available through the link on our website or at the door. There will be a reception following the concert.  Every year we seek out a community partner to support, and this season we are partnering with NAMI of Central Middlesex County. They will have volunteers in attendance to share the resources they have for individuals and families living with mental health conditions. The Acton Community Chorus is a nonprofit organization supported in part by grants from the Acton Boxborough, Concord, Littleton and Stow cultural councils which are supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a State agency.

The Acton Community Chorus invites all area singers to attend our Open Sing for our Spring 2026 Concert Movie Night. We will be featuring iconic songs from iconic movies including My Heart Will Go On, Both Sides Now, Danger Zone, Bohemian Rhapsody, (I've Had) The Time of My Life, and so many more! We will meet on January 26, 2026 at 7:30pm at the Faith Free Evangelical Church 54 Hosmer Street in Acton, MA. Please see our website www.actoncommunitychorus.org for more information about our vibrant choral group that has been bringing choral music and friendship to the Assabet Valley area since 1984!

Psychosis Program

"Psychosis Unveiled" is an in-person presentation for people living with symptoms of psychosis and those who love them. Join the local affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) and speakers from the MA Psychosis Access & Triage Hub (M-PATH). Join us on Monday, January 26th, at the Edinburg Center, 205 Burlington Road, Bedford MA, rear entrance. The event kicks off at 6:30 PM with dessert & social time. At 7:00 PM the presentations begin. Learn more about the program and please RSVP here: namicentralmiddlesex.org/newsletter/psychosis. 
Motor development babies3

Motor Development in Babies 0-18 Months

A free live webinar presented by pediatric physical therapist Christina Marinelli from Emerson Health, will be held via Zoom on Thursday, January 29, 1-2:00. Babies begin progressing both gross and fine motor skills from birth. They are the building blocks to your baby's ability to explore their environment as they grow. In this webinar, you will learn 1) what typical development looks like, 2) general tips and strategies to support baby's skill acquisition, and 3) helpful resources for continued learning. Time for questions will be allowed. To receive the link, email lmatthews@jri.org at First Connections.

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 group has been meeting in Acton for decades. Now we are continuing weekly on Thursday evenings by remote video conference. For more information, call Doreen 617-957-0838 or contact paulbaker01@verizon.net
Nashoba valley chorale

NASHOBA VALLEY CHORALE 50TH ANNIVERSARY WINTER CONCERT

Program Highlights:
  • “Hallelujah!” The Nashoba Valley Chorale is celebrating its 50th Anniversary Season with a concert on Sunday, January 18, 2026. The performance will include music by Bach and Britten and will close with Beethoven’s magnificent Mass in C, featuring four professional vocal soloists and full orchestra. The concert’s repertoire “reflects the different aspects of our history and showcases where we are now,” says Anne Watson Born, the group’s musical director. 
Event Details:
  • January 18, 2026, 3pm at the Groton-Dunstable Performing Arts Center (344 Main St., Groton, MA) 

Ticket Information:The Nashoba Valley Chorale is well known throughout Central Massachusetts and draws singers from towns in the heart of Nashoba Valley, as well as from all over the metro-west Boston area and southern New Hampshire. For more information about the Nashoba Valley Chorale and our season concerts, visit https://nvcsings.org/

Littleton Lyceum: The Oak Hill Project

 
The Littleton Lyceum will present The Oak Hill Project: From Lady Slippers to Slippery Slopes
on Friday, January 9, at 7:30 pm in Littleton High School’s Performing Arts Center at 56 King St.
Littletonian Bernadette Morey Stockwell will show her vivid slides of the results of a family
challenge during covid to hike the Oak Hill Conservation Land daily for a year. This all-ages
presentation blends visuals and story-telling, celebrating how the experience grew into a shared
discovery of place, community, and meaning.

Family season tickets are available for $40.00, and single tickets may be purchased at the door
for $12.00, seniors and students for $5.00.

For more information, check out our website at littletonlyceum.org or follow us on Facebook or X
Bluegrass fan favorites

Bluegrass Fan Favorites The Hosmer Mountain Boys Play Westford 1/10/26

WESTFORD, MA: On 1/10/26, Bluegrass fan favorites The Hosmer Mountain Boys take the stage at Parish Center for the Arts at 7:30pm! Tickets are $20 for Members; $22 for non-Members; and $25 at the door (if available). Seating will be cabaret-style. BYO food and drink. Doors open one half hour prior to the show. Advance reservations are recommended. Visit pcawestford.org to reserve your seats.
The Hosmer Mountain Boys are a retro bluegrass band that is quickly rising in the New England Bluegrass scene (while having a lot of fun in the process). They were voted the “Fan Favorite” at the 2023 Podunk Bluegrass Festival, performed in Lexington (KY) on WoodSongs Old-Time Radio Hour, and crossed the pond for the 2024 Battlefield Bluegrass Festival in England.  Keegan (guitar) and Simon (banjo) met at Mando Camp North in 2018 at age 16 and instantly connected over their passion for Flatt & Scruggs. Cathy Bumgarner Day (fiddle) and Tom Bowman (bass) complete the lineup with decades of regional bluegrass experience. Simon (banjo) has been described by some attendees at the Thomas Point Beach Bluegrass Festival in Brunswick (ME), as Connecticut’s best‑kept secret. You’ll hear that Keegan’s major guitar‑picking influences include Riley Pucket, Don Reno, and the thumb‑picking style of Lester Flatt. Mandolinist Red Day is the newest, having been a semi-regular guest with the band of late. Rounding out the band is Cathy Bumgarner Day on fiddle and Tom Bowman on bass, both staples in the New England Bluegrass Music scene for decades.
The Folk/Acoustic Concert Series is sponsored by Marshall-Ben Tisdale, CEPA®, AAMS®, Edward Jones Financial Advisor, 270 Littleton Rd Suite 17, Westford - 978-692-5665; edwardjones.com/marshall-ben-tisdale
Direct Ticket Link: https://parisharts.square.site/product/1-10-26-hosmer-mountain-boys/218
Facebook: facebook.com/ParishCenterfortheArts
Twitter: twitter.com/PCAWestford
Instagram: instagram.com/pcawestford
Parish Center for the Arts
978-692-6333