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The Bulletin Board: January 10, 2025

January 10, 2026
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What’s happening today in Acton? Tomorrow?

—––––––––> See the Calendar. <––––––––––

Reminder to readers: Our front page can’t hold all the news. To see all of this week’s new articles, go to the All News page.

The Acton Exchange Bulletin Board is for volunteer opportunities and other announcements not tied to a single specific time and date. Please send your Bulletin Board announcements to info@actonexchange.org. (Calendar events are submitted separately to calendar@actonexchange.org.)

Recent government communiques

January Municipal Monthly

From the Schools:

Dec. 15 Supplemental Information for District Reorganization ADDENDUM 12/15/25

Dec. 12 letter from School Committee Chair Tori Campbell on AB Forward

Dec. 10 AB Digital Backpack

Dec. 3 AB Forward Update from Superintendent Peter Light

Acton’s Economic Development director wants to help you shop small and shop local this year by providing a handy list of Acton businesses. Yes, you might have to leave your house, but you’re also helping support your local economy!

Applications being accepted for McManus Manor in Acton

Affordable Elderly (62+) Rental Opportunity

~ McManus Manor ~

486 Main Street Acton, MA

McManus Manor is 100% affordable. There are twenty-five (25) units at 60% Area Median Income (AMI) or below. There are five (5) units for income eligible households earning at or below 50% AMI as defined by HUD and eleven (11) for income eligible households earning at or below 30% AMI. Eight (8) will have project-based Section 8 vouchers and residents in these units will only pay 30% of their income in rent. There are also eight (8) Massachusetts Rental Voucher Program (MRVP) vouchers in the building and residents in these units will also only pay 30% of their income in rent. There are four (4) units that are ADA accessible for mobility and two (2) units designed for sensory accessibility. All units have been designed to be universally acceptable, and the building will follow Passive House requirements for sustainable design.

Occupancy is estimated to begin July 2026.

Applications are available January 5, 2026. Completed applications must be received or postmarked by April 5, 2026, at 4:00 PM in care of the Chelmsford Housing Authority (CHA), 10 Wilson ST, Chelmsford, MA 01824 (M-F 8:30-4:30).

Applications will be available in person at the following accessible locations:

Chelmsford Housing Authority, 10 Wilson Street, Chelmsford, MA, 01824 (Mon-Fri 8:30 am to 4:30 pm).

Acton Housing Authority, 68 Windsor Ave, Acton, MA 01720 (Mon-Thur 8:00am – 4:00pm, Fri 8:00am – 12n).

Acton Town Hall, 472 Main St, Acton, MA 01720 (Mon, Wed – Thurs 8:00 am – 5:00 pm, Tues 8:00 am – 7:30 pm, Fri 8:00am – 12n).

Acton Memorial Library 486 Main St, Acton, MA 01720 (Mon, Wed – Thurs 9:00 am to 8:00 pm, Tues 9:00 am to 7:00 pm, Fri 9:00 am – 2:00 pm, Sat 9:00am – 5:00p, Sun 1:00pm – 4:30pm).

West Acton Citizens’ Library 21 Windsor Ave, Acton, MA 01720 (Mon 5:00pm – 9:00pm, Tues – Fri 10:00 am to 5:00 pm).

Acton Senior Center 30 Sudbury Rd, Acton, MA 01720 (Mon, Wed-Thur 8:00am – 4:00pm, Tues 8:00a – 6:00pm, Fri 8:00am – 12n).

They will also be available by mail by calling (978) 256-7425 x10/TTY/TDD (800) 439-2370, via email at lottery@chelmsfordha.com, and at our website: www.chelmsfordha.com.

Persons with disabilities who may require a reasonable accommodation in obtaining or completing an application may call the CHA to make special arrangements.

A public information session will be held January 21, 2026 at 6:00PM at the Acton Memorial Library and February 12, 2026 at 11:00am at the Acton Senior Center.

Editor’s note: The Acton Exchange will report more fully on this housing opportunity in a near future issue.

Middlesex Sheriff’s Office (MSO) issues scam warning involving fake judicial documents

WOBURN, Mass. – As the holiday season continues, the Middlesex Sheriff’s Office (MSO) is issuing a warning for residents regarding scams involving fake judicial documents, “Preemptive Bail” and digital currency.


In recent days, the MSO has received numerous notifications from area residents reporting calls from criminals posing as law enforcement members. In each case, the callers alleged residents had warrants for their arrest for failing to appear in court.


In at least three of those instances, residents were sent what appeared to be arrest warrants via text. The warrants – which are fake – indicated charges were for failure to appear and contempt of court. In all the instances – including those involving the fake warrants – scammers tried to convince residents to pay fines of up to $5,000.


In one case involving a fake federal warrant, the scammer also sent the resident a document indicating they could post a “Preemptive Bail”, which would allow them to “avert apprehension and secure timely release.” The document also indicated that bail involving cash deposits “can be made at locally available kiosks, such as those found at grocery stores and fuel stations.”


Another document indicated that the “White House Administration has approved Digital Currency as a method for posting eligible appearance bonds” and included directions on how to pay at an “Authorized Self Service Bonding Terminal”.


“We want to be clear: no legitimate court or law enforcement agency will ever carry out its responsibilities this way,” said Middlesex Sheriff Peter J. Koutoujian. “There is no such thing as preemptive bail, we will never ask you to pay a fine at a gas station or grocery store, and the courts do not accept digital currency. These are all tell-tale signs of a scam.”


If you, or someone you know, has been targeted in one of these arrest scams, you are encouraged to contact local law enforcement or the agency that the alleged warrant is from to report the incident. In cases where callers claim to be from the Middlesex Sheriff’s Office, we ask that you call either 781-960-2800 or 978-667-1711 and ask to speak with an investigator in the Inner Perimeter Security (IPS) Unit.


The Middlesex Sheriff’s Office is also offering scam awareness and prevention presentations for local organizations within Middlesex County. Since the beginning of November, the MSO has delivered scam awareness presentations in five communities. Organizations interested in hosting a presentation may submit a request on the MSO website at www.middlesexsheriff.org/31/Community.

Concord Conservatory of Music free workshops

Concord Conservatory of Music is pleased to announce a series of complimentary music workshops this winter, inviting members of the community to explore a variety of musical interests and skills at our new music media lab (CCM 2). These workshops are a wonderful opportunity for participants of all ages and experience levels to engage with music and learn from CCM’s talented faculty.

The upcoming free community workshops include:

Channeling Your Creativity: An Introduction to Composition

Recording Techniques 101

  • Ages: 13-17 and 18+
  • Taught by: CCM music creation and production faculty member Daniel Fox
  • When: Tuesday, January 28, 5:00-6:30 p.m.
  • Where: CCM 2, 15 Junction Square Dr., Concord
  • What: In this session, you will learn the fundamental tools of the trade, industry best practices, and professional workflows for recording.
  • Link: https://concordconservatory.org/recording-techniques-101/

Multigenerational Bucket Drumming

  • Ages: 9-18+
  • Taught by: CCM clarinet and saxophone faculty member Tsuyoshi Honjo
  • When: Saturday, January 31, 3:30-4:30 p.m.
  • Where: CCM 2, 15 Junction Square Dr., Concord
  • What: With nothing more than buckets and drumsticks, participants of all skill levels can dive into an energizing and collaborative drumming session.
  • Link: https://concordconservatory.org/multigenerational-bucket-drumming-workshop/

Rhythmic Laboratory

  • Ages: Minimum age 6
  • Taught by: CCM percussion faculty member Giuseppe Paradiso
  • When: Wednesday, February 4, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
  • Where: CCM 2, 15 Junction Square Dr., Concord
  • What: You’ll gain practical, transferable techniques guaranteed to sharpen your sense of pulse and rhythmic awareness, instantly boosting your confidence in any ensemble or solo performance.
  • Link: https://concordconservatory.org/rhythmic-laboratory-workshop/

These free workshops are available to all community members, and registration details can be found on the Concord Conservatory of Music website. Spaces are limited, and early registration is encouraged.

Weekly Pickleball community social events

When: Every Saturday from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., beginning Dec. 13

Where: Acton Racquet Club 10 Granite Rd Acton, MA 01720

Email: paddleuppickledown@gmail.com

TeamReach Code (iPhone and Android): Paddle-002

Whether you’re picking up a paddle for the first time or perfecting your serve, we have a spot for you! Everyone from 70-plus retirees to four-year-olds with a mermaid paddle comes to play with us. Join our weekly pickleball social clinics at the Acton Racquet Club. Hold your spot here. For more information, email paddleuppickledown@gmail.com or connect with us on the Team Reach app (iPhone and Android) with code Paddle-002.

Sign Me Up for Pickleball!

See the related article.

Acton Food Pantry: Pet food needed

Note: Pet food is needed, in addition to other donations. The Acton Food Pantry desperately needs dry and canned dog and cat food. Smaller bags are better so more can be distributed to every family in need.

The following information and more can be found at www.actonfoodpantry.org/food.

Donations can be delivered directly to Acton Food Pantry at the following times:

Monday from 10:00 to 4:00 p.m.

Tuesday from 10:00 to 4:00 p.m.

Thursday from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

​

Please note we cannot accommodate drop-offs on Wednesdays when we are open. Please see the calendar on the home page for open/close times.

If you are unable to bring your donations at those times, please call us at 978-635-9295 and we will arrange another time with you. Donations can also be dropped into the drop boxes at the locations listed [at the website]. Or easier yet, donate via our Amazon Wish List!

Access to food and groceries in the Acton area

Food pantries and community organizations in or near Acton continue to provide access to food and groceries for those in need.

For up-to-date details on available programs and more resources, visit here, or contact the Community Services Office at (978) 929-6651 or lducharme@actonma.gov.

Current restrictions on outdoor water use

Due to ongoing drought conditions and shut downs of treatment plants while bringing the new PFAS-treating equipment online, the Water District has declared a Level 4 restriction, which limits outdoor water use to “food and fiber or public health and safety.”

More information is available at https://www.actonwater.com/conservation/outdoor-water-restrictions and in the minutes of the AWD Commissioners meeting.

Participate in AB Forward, strategic planning at Acton Boxborough Regional Schools

Please see the Schools’ strategic planning website, https://www.abschools.org/read-the-plan .

See recent articles on this topic by searching for “AB Forward” in the search box on the Acton Exchange homepage. Please look for article coverage this week.

Updated Timeline for AB Forward Decision-making (from website)

November 18 – Steering Committee reviews information and begins to narrow possible options for consideration

December 2 – Steering Committee makes final recommendation of 2-3 options for School Committee Consideration

December 4 – School Committee receives final report and recommendations from the Steering Committee

December 18 – AB Forward Discussion at scheduled School Committee Meeting

January 8 – School Committee Final Public Hearing on AB Forward Final Options

January 22 – School Committee makes final decision on one preferred option for reorganization

Looking for a chorus director for the Acton Songsters

The Acton Songsters, the Acton Senior Center singing group, will be needing a new group leader in the near future as the current leader, Ed Knights, is considering retirement. You should have a background in singing, and Ed feels it is most helpful for the leader to read music, which helps select pieces that are appropriate for the group. About 20 dedicated singers typically meet on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday afternoons each month, and the group offers occasional performances at the Senior Center. If you want to learn more about this opportunity, please reach out to Chris Chirokas at 978-929-6652 or cchirokas@actonma.gov.

Boston Area Gleaners volunteer opportunity

Boston Area Gleaners is a regional food systems non-profit organization working at the intersection of farming, food waste, and food security. Our mission is to increase access to fresh fruits and vegetables across our communities while supporting our region’s farms and reducing systemic food waste.

The work we do is possible in large part because of our extraordinary network of volunteers. If you’re interested in deepening your understanding of the local food system, and ensuring that households experiencing food insecurity have access to nutritious produce, then we want you to volunteer with us! You can start by creating a volunteer account on our website here. Once you have an account, you can sign up for any shift that we post on our opportunity list. We hope to see you soon!

Nashoba Valley Neighbors Club

The Nashoba Valley Neighbors Club has ongoing public events such as Lunch Bunch, Movie Night, Book Club, Dinner Group, Trivia Nights, Summer Picnic, Wine Tastings, and Men’s and Ladies’ Night 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 who are looking to explore new interests and to make connections with new friends.

Find us on Facebook or visit the club’s website for more information, as well as information on how to become a member of the Nashoba Valley Neighbors Club, or email info@nashobavalleyneighbors.org. We look forward to seeing you!

Also see the article about us in the Nov. 1 issue of the Acton Exchange.

YV Art Museum- exhibitions, visits

YV Art Museum grounds are located at 68 Quarry Road in Acton MA, and are open to the public every day 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. (winter hours 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.). Please call 617-699-6401 to schedule an appointment before arriving. The admission is $15/adult, $10/over 65 & under 14.

English At Large Conversation Classes

Looking to practice your English speaking skills? Join a free conversation group with English At Large to build your skills and confidence speaking English in a group setting with the support of trained facilitators. English At Large conversation groups are for intermediate to advanced adult English language learners to practice speaking and listening for 90 minutes once per week. Join a group of 10-12 learners and 2 facilitators to discuss topics including American culture and holidays, idioms, and daily life situations. For more information about English At Large conversation groups, visit our conversation group page, or email info@englishatlarge.org.

Middlesex County 4-H Fife and Drum Corps

The Middlesex County 4-H Fife and Drum Corps was founded in 1972 in order to pass on New England’s fife and drum tradition to young musicians. The group’s repertoire consists of fife and drum music dating from the American Colonial Period to modern pieces written in the traditional style. Comprising youth ages 8 to 18, the corps is led by its members, who elect their leaders and determine their own events and repertoire each season. Some Acton kids participate and the organization invites new members to join.

The corps performs in parades and at historical commemorations throughout New England during the year.

The corps provides music lessons during weekly Sunday afternoon rehearsals at Bemis Hall, 15 Bedford Rd., Lincoln, MA. The corps is happy to welcome anyone, including those who do not yet play an instrument. Instruments, instruction and most uniform parts are provided without charge. The participation fee is $40 per year. For more information, reach out at mc4hfd@gmail.com or mc4hfd.org.

Acton Nursing Services offers free loaner equipment

Submitted by Adrian Hancock, Chair, Acton Nursing Services Advisory Committee

Did you know that Acton Nursing Services (ANS) offers a range of home-health equipment on free loan on a first-come-first-served basis for Acton residents? Often we think of our very own home health organization as being focused only on older members of the community, but it can also be very helpful for anyone else. Whether it’s a slip-and-fall accident on snow or ice, a sports accident, a motor vehicle incident, or recovery time at home after a hospital procedure, ANS can often offer free equipment like crutches, canes, wheelchairs, walkers, shower chairs, and more.

Recovery can be hard enough; why make it more expensive than it has to be? Call: 978.929.6650 to check availability. These items are also available on loan to residents hosting visitors from out of town who may need them during their stay. Full information about ANS’ year-round services for all Acton residents is available at https://www.actonnursingservice.com.

AB Community Fitness Center is open! AB Regional High School

Through the AB Community Education website: The Acton-Boxborough Regional School District maintains a Fitness Center which is open to the public in the evenings and on Saturday mornings. The fitness center is located in the Acton-Boxborough Regional High School. For cost, hours, and more information, see Fitness Center at Community Education (abschools.org).



Volunteer at Danny’s Place! 543 Mass Ave. West Acton

Volunteer at Danny’s Place after school or on your days off. Calling All High School and Junior High Students. We’re looking for enthusiastic helpers/volunteers to join our team at Danny’s Place! Support our programs, gain valuable administrative skills, and make a difference in your community. Flexible hours & meaningful opportunities await! Email us to apply: info@dannys-place.org.



The Acton Food Pantry volunteering

Ongoing – Volunteers Needed! Current needs include:

  • Adults who have flexibility to volunteer for daytime shifts, particularly on Wednesdays.
  • People who might be interested in helping with the Saturday morning pickups at Stop & Shop or Trader Joe’s.
  • Fluent Portuguese speakers to help us better serve our large Brazilian client population.

Although these are specific needs, we welcome any interested potential volunteer, as we always need a large roster of potential substitutes and have a variety of opportunities. If you know of anyone who might be interested in volunteering, please have them complete a preliminary application on the Pantry website here or email Cathy at Cathy@actonfoodpantry.org.

The Acton Food Pantry has been providing food for residents in need in Acton, Boxborough, and surrounding towns since 1984. It typically serves 350 families per week and relies heavily on volunteers.

Faith-based organizations serving Acton

Faith-based organizations in and near Acton provide a myriad of opportunities for connecting and serving, as well as worshipping. Check out these websites for more details:

Unless otherwise noted, the organization is in Acton.

If you would like to see an organization added to this list, or an edit to an existing entry, please email info@actonexchange.org. Specify the change you would like to see, a phone number where you can be reached, and your role in the organization.

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