Lowell Events: June 22, 2024

June 22, 2024 by DickH Posted in Uncategorized Leave a Comment

I hope you enjoy this list of upcoming activities, events and news in Lowell.

–Belinda Juran
–author of events newsletter

****

 

  1. Quick ways to help local businesses today:
  1. Vote for your favorite (Lowell-based) businesses by June 23 (you can vote each day).  Multiple categories.  Let’s put our Lowell businesses on everyone’s map!  To vote:  https://lowellsun.secondstreetapp.com/Readers-Choice-2024/gallery/?group=487358.
  2. Help Purple Carrot, 107 Merrimack Street, by buying some of its bread They baked a lot of bread to sell at the Tewksbury farm market, which was cancelled due to the heat.  For info:  https://www.facebook.com/PurpleCarrot10712.

 

  1. Festivals and Community Celebrations
    1. The Sacred Heart/South Lowell/Ayer’s City neighborhood(s) will hold a free summer picnic with games, food (while supplies last) and music, June 22, noon-5pm, Father Kirwin Park, 875 Lawrence Street.  Bring your own chair/blanket.  No need to RSVP, but if you need info: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/sacred-heart-south-lowell-ayers-city-neighborhood-picnic-tickets-893397745707?aff=oddtdtcreator&fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR1tmUo7EIpg6Gd6-M2m6ipFkNRHnKsNgzezRXItNTrFokgVURnARlkKKIE_aem_ZmFrZWR1bW15MTZieXRlcw.
    2. The Holy Trinity Greek Church will hold its annual Greek Festival, June 21-23, on the grounds of the Hellenic American Academy, 41 Broadway Street, with food and music.  For info:  https://holytrinitylowell.com/2024/03/greek-festival-2024/.
    3. The Sao Joao Feast festival will held on June 21-23 at the Portuguese American Lowell Youth Center, 739 Central Street.
    4. On June 22, the new Centralville welcome mural will be revealed, noon-2pm, 740 Aiken Street at VFW Highway, with a talk by artist Quest Nine (see also item 11.b) at 12:30pm.  For info:  https://calendar.time.ly/v3rnq4dd/event/77619525/20240622120000.
    5. Community Connections is hosting a summer kick-off at Gage Park, 78 Thirteenth Street, June 22, 10am-4pm, with food, music and fun, plus a 3 vs. 3 basketball tournament for middle school kids who just finished 6th, 7th or 8th grade.  For info or to register for the tournament:  https://calendar.time.ly/v3rnq4dd/event/77605829/20240622100000.
    6. There will be a World Refugee Day Celebration on June 22 (rain date June 23), 3-7pm, at Sampas Pavilion, 160 Pawtucket Blvd, with games and festivities, hosted by several organizations in Lowell.  For info:  https://www.acefornewamericans.org/ace-events/2024-world-refugee-day-celebration.
    7. Franco-American Festival Week is June 24-30 (https://www.facebook.com/LowellFrancoAmericanWeek):
      1. June 23, noon                   Mass in French, Immaculate Conception Church, 144 East Merrimack Street, followed by the naming of the Greater Lowell Franco-American of the Year
      2. June 24, 10am                  Flag-raising (see item 1.e.iv)
      3. June 24, 6:30-7:30pm       Vesper service at Lourdes Grotto, 357 Pawtucket Street, followed by a wine and cheese social
      4. June 26, 6:30-8pm            Charlie Gargiulo will read from his book “Legends of Little Canada” and Paul Marion will read poetry, at Dracut Public Library (see also item 4.h)
      5. June 27, 6:30-8:30pm       Family bingo will be offered in French and English, St. Rita’s Church, 158 Mammoth Road
      6. June 29, 6-10pm               Dance (no experience necessary!) French quadrilles and contra dances, East End Club, 15 West 4th Street
      7. June 30, 2-4pm                 Lowell Poutine Picnic, St. Rita’s Church, 158 Mammoth Road
    8. Join the celebration of World Refugee Day hosted by the International Institute of New England, June 24, 3-6pm, Cowan Center, Middlesex Community College, 33 Kearney Square.  For info:  IINE’s Lowell World Refugee Day Event – Campaign.
    9. Flag-raisings at City Hall celebrate the many cultures that make up the fabric of Lowell (https://www.lowellma.gov/1410/Flag-Raising).  Come celebrate and learn about our neighbors’ cultures.  The next several:
      1. June 24      10am               Franco-American
      2. July 20       1pm                 Colombia
      3. Aug. 3        noon               Puerto Rico
      4. Aug. 24      11am               Liberia
      5. Sept. 6       6pm                 Brazil
    10. Auditions of song/dance/poetry/etc. for Lowell Community Health Center’s Dance 4 Peace will be held June 25 & 27, 3-7pm, at MCC Cafeteria, 33 Kearney Square.  Register to audition:  https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=ltEGEg65bkOiDUOSpVUhXN7blMeObOdIlEtlRqhgf-pUMzlMQVk0VlE1R0RaU0Q4RU9QWEJNVEhGSC4u&origin=QRCode.
    11. The Cambodian Mutual Assistance Association will hold its annual meeting on June 26, 6-8pm, at UML Innovation Hub, 110 Canal Street.  For info, email nchea@cmaalowell.org or https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2024-cmaa-annual-meeting-tickets-871950606737?aff=oddtdtcreator.
    12. City’s Independence Day celebration and fireworks will be on July 4 (rain date:  July 5), Boarding House Park, 40 French Street; events start at 5:30pm, with fireworks starting at 9:02pm.  For info:  https://www.lowellma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Item/27917?fileID=56653.
    13. Save the dates:
      1. July 26-28  Lowell Folk Festival; consider volunteering:  https://lowellfolkfestival.org/pages/volunteer or help LTC expand its coverage of the Festival:  https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSePimTN65_1JxsdPH5QJoSfnU0vSsmDbx_0qkuXkIFJ7SVJGQ/viewform.
      2. Aug. 3-4     Puerto Rican Festival
      3. Aug. 4        Lowell Democratic City Committee and Greater Lowell Area Democrats summer picnic, Shedd Park pavilion, 453 Rogers Street, 4:30-7:30pm; for info:  email sally.coulter@gmail.com
      4. Aug. 8        Dance 4 Peace, Lowell Memorial Auditorium, 50 East Merrimack Street, 6pm (see item 2.j)
      5. Aug. 10      Multicultural Festival, JFK Plaza
      6. Aug. 17      Southeast Asian Water Festival, Pawtucket Boulevard, noon-5pm
      7. Aug. 31      Dwelling House of Hope backpack giveaway
      8. Aug. 31-Sept. 2     Our Lady of Loreto Feast
      9. Sept. 21     Lowell Kinetic Sculpture Race
      10. Sept. 14     Lowell Irish Festival, Lowell Memorial Auditorium
      11. Sept. 14     India Heritage Festival, Pawtucket Boulevard
      12. Sept. 21     Lowell Kinetic Sculpture Race
      13. Sept. 21     Mill City Grows’ Harvest Day, 1-4pm, Big Urban Farm, 1001 Pawtucket Boulevard (https://www.millcitygrows.org/harvestday/
      14. Sept. 28     Latinx & Hispanic Festival, Boarding House Park,
      15. Oct.           Lowell Celebrates Kerouac (see also item 13.b)
      16. Oct. 19-20 Poe in Lowell, celebrating Edgar Allan Poe’s three visits to Lowell in 1848-49; www.facebook.com/edgarallanpoeshow/.  See also item 16.d.xi.
      17. Oct. 24      Community Teamwork will honor its retiring CEO, Karen Frederick.
      18. Nov. 2, 3-7pm       African Community Center of Lowell’s 8th anniversary dinner, with a fashion show, music and traditional dance.  Free.  For info:  info@acclowell.org.

 

  1. Theater
    1. Sign up now for subscriptions to the upcoming season of Merrimack Repertory Theater:  https://mrt.org/2024-25season.
      1. See also item 2.e.ix.
    2. Dramatically Incorrect theater company will perform its shows at the Chelmsford Center for the Arts (https://ditgdc.org/):
      1. “Connected:  The Musical”           June 21-23
      2. “Ghost:  The Musical”                  Aug. 23-25

 

  1. Learning:  learn, in Lowell, about Lowell, about everything!
  1. The Lowell Plan, Lowell Alliance and Coalition for a Better Acre are launching the second cohort of their Board Diversity Initiative program this September.  Applications to participate, as either a representative of a nonprofit board or an individual interested in board service, are due June 21.  For info:  https://www.lowellplan.org/board-diversity-initiative.
  2. Women Accelerators will hold a webinar entitled “From Fear to Fulfillment:  Empowering Women’s Journeys” on June 21, noon-1pm.  For info and ticket (small fee):  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/from-fear-to-fulfillment-empowering-womens-journeys-tickets-900832703867.
  3. Sees the stars using the telescopes at the UML Schueller Observatory, 900 Broadway Street, June 21, 8:30pm; July 19, 8pm; Aug. 16, 7:30pm.  Free and open to all.  For info:  https://www.facebook.com/umlastronomy.
  4. The Lowell Historical Society will hold a presentation about the Smith Baker Center’s past, present and future at its annual meeting on June 22, 2pm, at the Pollard Memorial Library ground floor community room.  Free and open to the public.  For info:  https://www.lowellhistoricalsociety.org/news-events/.
  5. Learn traditional Cambodian dance movements and then transfer that beauty onto paper while drawing.  This session, called “Art in Movement” will be on June 23, 11am-1pm, Boarding House Park, 40 French Street.  It’s part of the Lowell National Historical Park’s Connect, Create, Discover Workshop series.  For info (free, but reservations required to get your art supplies):  https://www.facebook.com/events/1211472953350044.
  6. Show off your love of Lowell food by working as a tour guide for Off the Beaten Path Food Tours, which is starting up walking food tours of Lowell neighborhoods.  For info:  https://offthebeatenpathfoodtours.com/tour-guide-job-description/.
  7. Join Lowell Walks on June 29, 10-11:30am, for a tour of Lowell’s LGBTQ+ history.  For info:  https://www.nps.gov/planyourvisit/event-details.htm?id=BC08F3B7-951D-68DA-2D6961DADB4B70D4.
  8. Historian Dick Howe and leader and author Charlie Gargiulo will lead a walk of the Little Canada neighborhood on June 29, 10am.  Meet at Coalition for a Better Acre, 517 Moody Street.  For info:  https://richardhowe.com/2024/05/26/lowell-politics-newsletter-may-26-2024/.
  9. Lowell National Historical Park’s guided tours are back: (https://www.nps.gov/lowe/planyourvisit/guidedtours.htm)
      1. Suffolk Mill Tour, leaves from Boott Mills, 115 John Street, 75 minutes:
        • Mondays, and Thursdays through Sundays, through Oct. 14 (excluding Folk Festival weekend July 27-28), 1-2:15pm
      2. Pawtucket Canal boat tours (fee), leaves from Visitors Center, 246 Market Street; 90 minutes:
        • June 14 throughout summer:  daily at 11am, 2pm, 3pm
      3. See also item 4.e, 4.g, 4.j.
  1. The National Park’s “One City Many Cultures” exhibit at Mogan Center, 40 French Street, is open from 11am-4:30pm throughout the summer through Oct. 14 (when hours are slightly reduced).  https://www.nps.gov/lowe/learn/cultural-exhibit-project.htm.
  2. The City’s Economic Development Department offers various webinars to help small business owners and entrepreneurs.  For info and registration:  DoBizInLowell@lowellma.gov.
      1. June 25, 1-2:30pm            Business Plan Basics
      2. June 25, 2-4pm                 Food costing and menu design
      3. Aug. 14, noon-2pm          Legal considerations for business owners
  1. Community Teamwork’s Entrepreneurship Center offers free webinars.  For info:  https://mosaiclowell.org/event/resourceful-tools-webinar/.
      1. June 26, noon-1pm           Resourceful tools for marketing your small business (https://www.eventbrite.com/e/e-center-presents-resourceful-tools-for-marketing-your-small-business-tickets-868517929507?aff=oddtdtcreator)
      2. June 28, noon-1pm          Let’s Talk Small Business:  Growth & Retirement (https://www.eventbrite.com/e/e-center-presents-lets-talk-small-business-growth-retirement-tickets-868519113047?aff=oddtdtcreator&fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR1s7fB-vEbgN0Vqczd9NpH5xSYwVAGLAxg3SpOiHthCLMC9scGIInes9yA_aem_AdkBjamxpkLVoPY3cIanbahSPqiTDmXZv8Fs5e7VNMAXjHHsOk2OYSyX0ne0NOfvU4AqzZDFeDm9LQMgvxlOpBja)
  1. Lowell High School can get college credits while still in high school.  Read more about Early College Lowell, a collaboration between Lowell High School, Middlesex Community College and Project LEARN:  https://earlycollegelowell.org/.
  2. Sign up to teach or learn at survival English classes for parents of Lowell public school kids:  https://www.lowell.k12.ma.us/Page/5265.
  3. The Center for Hope and Healing, 15 Hurd Street, offers Black Girls Rock! for high school girls, on Wednesdays, 2:30-4:30pm.  For info: https://chhinc.org/think-you-grown-huh-by-black-girls-rock/.
  4. The Center for Hope and Healing, 15 Hurd Street, offers Brotherhood of Strength, a program about building community within masculinity, 3rd Thursday each month, 6:30-8pm.  To register:  https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1_AijznJN6QrcDPq7zI3m8TgVhefCRmpyYnsRISvprrA/viewform?edit_requested=true.  For info, email amechi@cchinc.org.
  5. The YWCA, 41 Rock Street, is offering the following.  For info and registration, email:  Cnapolitano@ywcaoflowell.org:
      1. computer and cell phone support for anyone needing help with computers, phone settings or patient portal access, Tuesdays, 11:30-1pm
      2. summer programming for kids aged 7-13, Mondays-Thursdays, 10am-3pm, July 8-Aug. 13.  Each session is 2 weeks long and covers a different topic.
  1. Sign up for the Lowell Historic Board’s soon-to-be-relaunched newsletter “Presence from the Past” to learn more about Lowell’s history and connections between that history and Lowell’s present and future: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sl/AQofNdB.
  2. Cheer on teams working on new business ideas at UML’s Rist DifferenceMaker Demo Day on July 9, 5-8pm, Saab Center, on University Avenue.  For info and registration (free):  https://www.uml.edu/DifferenceMaker/Forms/DifferenceMaker-Event-Registration.aspx.
  3. The Center for Hope and Healing’s Lowell Ending Trafficking of Youth project will hold a summer paint night with music and food, Aug. 15, 3-5pm, 15 Hurd Street.  For info:  email nicolle@chhinc.org.
  4. Several of the 100 posters celebrating the life and work of Annie Powell, a prolific Lowell photographer in the late 1800s/early 1900s, have gone up in offices and businesses around Lowell near where the original photos were taken.  See where at:  https://byanniepowell.org/, https://www.instagram.com/byanniepowell/, and https://www.facebook.com/byanniepowell.
  5. Explore Lowell Makes’ makerspace at 150 Western Avenue during its open house tours every Wednesday at 6:30pm (updated time).  For info:  https://lowellmakes.spaces.nexudus.com/events?public&.
  6. Learn about city government with the monthly “Lowell Current” videos, produced by the City of Lowell and LTC.  Watch it, and other Lowell videos, on the City’s YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCveqRNQP1aDURigsBOwYZ8A.
      1. And follow LTC on Facebook about all its various live and recorded offerings:  https://www.facebook.com/ltclowellma
  1. Teachers, consider taking your grades 2-12 classes on a field trip to the Tsongas Industrial History Center.  A cool learning experience.  Reserve a spot for the 2024/25 school year.  (Fee.)  For info:  https://www.uml.edu/tsongas/visit/.

 

  1. Pollard Memorial Library, Lowell’s public library, Literacy and Learning
  1. Our wonderful public library is located at 401 Merrimack Street (next to City Hall).
  2. The elevator is closed for long-needed repairs.  The staff will help those who have trouble with stairs in any way they can.
  3. Changes to Library hours:
    • Closed on Saturdays starting July 1 through Labor Day
    • Delayed opening (opens at 11am rather than 9am) first Thursday each month (July 11, 2nd Thursday, in July due to July 4th holiday)
  4. For all events and details about sign-ups (registration is typically required or at least strongly requested):   https://lowelllibrary.org/events/.
  5. See also items 1.h, 3.g, 6.a.i, 6.a.vi.
  6. The Library will have 3 different summer reading programs based on ages/grades.  They will run from June 24-Aug. 16.  Patrons will use the online program, Beanstack, to track their reading.
    • The Children’s Reading Program for Grade K-4.  Being-read-to counts so “pre-readers” can participate too!  The program will kick-off on June 25, 7-8pm, ground floor meeting room, with a performance by Alex the Jester.  Registration required.
    • The Young Adult Reading Program for Grades 5 – 12.
    • And there is also a reading program for adults.
  7. For adults and young adults:
    • Tech support:  Registration required
      • Cell phone help:  June 27 11am-1pm, Lowell Senior Center, 276 Broadway Street, 2nd floor computer lab
      • Computer and Internet skills class, July 2, 18; 11am-noon, PML first floor computer area
      • One-on-one Tech help:  every Wednesday; 4-5pm and 5-6pm, PML first floor computer area
    • Authors/presentations:
      • Katherine Ramsland and Tracy Ullman will discuss their book “The Serial Killer’s Apprentice,” June 24, 7-8pm, virtual
      • Scott Ryan will discuss his book “The Last Decade of Cinema,” about movies from the 1990s, June 25, 7-8pm, virtual
      • Lucy Gilmore will discuss her novel “The Library of Borrowed Hearts,” June 26, 7-8pm, virtual
      • Learn about composting from Bootstrap Composting and Mill City Grows, June 29, 1-2pm, ground floor meeting room (see also items 2.m.xviii, 5.g.ii, 15.d)
      • A virtual tour of the Bata Shoe Museum in Toronto, the only shoe museum in North America, July 8, 7-8pm, virtual
      • The Two Nerdy History girls, Loretta Chase and Susan Holloway Scott, will discuss how they write historical novels, etc.; July 15, 7-8pm, virtual
      • Emily Falcon will discuss her memoir “From the Sidelines to the Finish Line” about growing up with a congenital heart defect and then running races; July 18, 6:30-7:30pm, hybrid
      • True crime writer Dean Jobb discusses “A Gentleman and a Thief: The Daring Jewel Heists of a Jazz Age Rogue,” July 22, 7-8pm, virtual
      • Rachelle Bergstein discusses “The Genius of Judy: How Judy Blume Rewrote Childhood for All of Us,” July 23, 7-8pm, virtual
      • Blue Cross/Blue Shield will lead a discussion about “Planning for Medicare:  Countdown to 65” for folks getting close to age 65; July 25, 6:30-7:30pm, ground floor meeting room
      • Christina Dodd discusses her book “A Daughter of Fair Verona,” a novel about Romeo and Juliet’s daughter as an independent young woman; July 30, 7-8pm, virtual
    • Book clubs:
      • International book club:  July 10 (“The Remains of the Day” by Kazuo Ishiguro) and 2nd Wednesday each month, 6:30-7:30pm (virtual)
    • Crafting
      • Crafts for adults:  July 11 (mini canvas painting; supplies provided), and every 2nd Thursday, 6:30-8pm, ground floor meeting room; registration required
      • Try a fiber art:  supplies for use during class provided; 5-6pm; ground floor meeting room; registration required, then stay for the fiber arts group, if you’d like
      • June 27                        amigurumi crochet
      • July 25 & Aug. 1          knitting
      • Fiber arts group:  every Thursday, 6-7:30pm (1st floor front alcove, although June 27 session will be in ground floor meeting room); bring your own project and share tips and camaraderie
    • Free movie:  “Mamma Mia!”, July 19, 1-3pm; July 24, 6-8pm; ground floor meeting room
    • Creative writing group meets July 1, and the first Monday each month, 6-8pm, ground floor meeting room
    • Literacy:  Help others learn to read.  Learn more about becoming an adult English learning or basic literacy tutor.  June 25, 6:30pm, virtual.  To register, email:  smiller@lowelllibrary.org, or mhartmann@lowelllibrary.org.
  8. For Kids (confirm age ranges on the website and please register if the event requires it):
    • Children’s Book to Art Club (grades 1-4):  June 24; 4:30-6pm (in person)
    • Mother Goose on the Loose (ages 3 and younger, and older siblings can come):  June 25; July 2, 9, 16, 23; 10:30-11:30am (in person)
    • Summer story time:  June 26; July 3, 30; 10:30-11:30am (ground floor meeting room)
    • Creative mending for teens; no experience required; sewing supplies will be provided; bring a piece of clothing you’d like to mend (grades 5-12):  June 26, 3-5pm (in person); registration required
    • Baby Yoga (3 weeks to pre-crawlers):  June 27, July 16, 30; 10-11am (virtual)
    • Little Makers STEM tinker lab (grades K-4):  June 29, 9:30-11:30am, ground floor meeting room; registration required
    • Drop in craft:  animal habitat:  all day, July 1-3, July 5:  drop in at children’s reference desk on ground floor to get a kit
    • Crafting and fun (grades 5-12):  first floor YA area, 3-4pm:
      • July 2               make a hedgehog out of an old book
      • July 11             cyanotype, or sunprinting
      • July 16             tie-dye party
      • July 23             chip taste testing
      • July 30             make bad art
    • Lego Club (grades K-4):  July 8; 4-5pm (in person)
    • Free Movie:  animated all-age movies, and, while supplies last, free popcorn and soda and a craft; ground floor community room (registration required):
      • July 10, 6pm    “Spider-Man Across the Spider-Verse”
      • July 31, 6pm    “Migration”
  1. Keep up with the Library’s new bookmobile (mobile library) at https://lowelllibrary.org/services/bookmobile/ and sign up if you’d like the Library to consider having the bookmobile stop at your event or organization.  Some upcoming visits (see the bright pink events at https://lowelllibrary.org/events/):
      1. June 20, 2:30-4:30pm                   McPherson Park
      2. June 21, 9:30am-noon                 Sheehy Park
      3. June 22, noon-5pm                      Sacred Heart/South Lowell/Ayer’s City Summer Picnic (see item 2.a)
      4. June 24, 1:30-4:30pm                   Shedd Park
      5. June 25, 10am-2pm                      Lowell Community Health Center
      6. June 26, 9:30-noon                       Lowell Heritage State Park
      7. June 26, 1:30-3:30pm                   Boarding House Park
      8. June 27, 1:30-4:30pm                   Rogers Fort Hill Park
      9. June 28, 1:30-4:30pm                   McPherson Park
      10. July 2, 10am-2pm                         Lowell Community Health Center
      11. July 8, 9am-1pm                           Daley/Highland Park
      12. July 9, 16, 23, 30; 8:30am-1:30pm           Lowell Community Health Center
      13. July 9, 16, 23, 30; 9am-1pm         Shedd Park (note the overlapping time:  books and services will be at both the Health Center and Shedd Park)
      14. July 10, 17, 24, 31; 9am-1pm       Gage Park
      15. July 11, 18; 9:30-11:30am             Lowell Senior Center
      16. July 12, 19, 26; 9am-1pm             Wang/LeBlanc Park
      17. July 15, 22, 29; 9am-1pm             Daley/Highland Park
  1. Lowell Chess Club, Tuesdays, 5:30-8:30pm, in person.  All levels are welcome to learn and play.
      1. The June 25 session at the Library will be on the first floor (i.e., up the front steps from Merrimack Street).
      2. See also item 19.a.i.
    1. See also items 2.d, 9.e.i.

 

  1. Awards and Recognition
    1. The Lowell Youth Activities Program, an affiliate of Lowell Housing Authority, will award college scholarships to young adults who live in LHA or Section 8 housing at the Philip L. Shea Annual Scholarship Awards Reception, June 20, 5-7pm, Dragonfly Café, 165 Thorndike Street.  Cathy Mercado, CEO of Merrimack Valley Housing Partnership, will be the keynote speaker.  For info: https://www.lhma.org/scholarships/.
    2. Congratulations to Anna Jabar-Omoyeni, renowned Lowell chef and coordinator of CTI’s YouthBuild Culinary Program, on being named a Commonwealth Heroine.  For info:  https://www.commteam.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Commonwealth-Heroines-2024.pdf.
    3. Congratulations to Dr. Phitsamay Uy, UML School of Education professor, for receiving the prestigious Manning Prize for Excellence in Teaching:  https://insidelowell.com/education-professor-wins-annual-uml-teaching-prize/.
    4. Congratulations to several of Lowell’s wonderful non-profits who were awarded grants by the Greater Lowell Community Foundation!  For info:  https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=7859007517453166&set=pcb.7859029234117661.
    5. Congratulations to Lowell resident Dr. Jay Lang, superintendent of Chelmsford Public Schools, received the Massachusetts Association of School Superintendents President’s Award.  https://insidelowell.com/jay-lang-receives-m-a-s-s-presidents-award/.
    6. Read the wonderful article about Lowell entrepreneur Rajia Abdelaziz, CEO/founder of Invisawear:  https://insidelowell.com/safety-jewelry-a-local-business-success-story/.
    7. Congratulations to the Boston Celtics for becoming NBA champs while displaying teamwork and love!
      1. See story about Lowellians who are ballboys for the Celtics:  https://insidelowell.com/lowell-friends-ball-with-the-celtics/.

 

  1. Events for kids and their families
    1. Summer playgroups (with snacks) for kids aged 3-5 are offered by Lowell Public Schools at the following sites (to register:  https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc9MXX6kpNWAoChnX8Sk41z6Hx3xQpI5OB7vdlveA-9UDN51w/viewform):
      1. July 9                     Cardinal Early Learning Center, 21 Carter Street
      2. July 11                   Cardinal Early Learning Center, 21 Carter Street
      3. July 16                   Cardinal Early Learning Center, 21 Carter Street
      4. July 18                   Boott Mill Park, 115 John Street (followed by item 6.d)
      5. Aug. 13                  Cardinal Early Learning Center, 21 Carter Street
      6. Aug. 15                  Boott Mill Park, 115 John Street (followed by item 6.d)
      7. Aug. 20                  Cardinal Early Learning Center, 21 Carter Street
      8. Aug. 22                  Boott Mill Park, 115 John Street, followed by a pre-K and kindergarten parade
    2. Free summer fun (Free Fun For Kids – Lowell Summer Music Series) at Boarding House Park, 40 French Street, for kids and their families on Wednesdays and Thursdays, with snacks, books and crafts at 10am and these performances at 11am:
      1. July 10                   Hot Tamale Brass Band
      2. July 12                   Vanessa Trien and Jumping Monkeys
      3. July 17                   Curious Creatures
      4. July 18                   Airborne Comedians
      5. Aug. 1                    Spirit of Africa
      6. Aug. 7                    Peter Panic
      7. Aug. 8                    Trend N Motion
      8. Aug. 14                  Ben Rudnick
      9. Aug. 15                  Good News Gus
    3. The National Streetcar Museum shows the history of trolleys and other transportation cities.  Open Saturdays and Sundays from 11am-4pm, 25 Shattuck Street, small fee. For info:  https://trolleymuseum.org/national-streetcar-museum-lowell.
    4. Free summer programs for kids:
      1. ACCL is hosting a summer program for middle and high school students Saturdays, starting June 22, 10am-noon.  For info, email:  info@acclowell.org.
      2. UML is offering a robot exploration class with tours and hands-on projects for rising 8th and 9th graders, the week of June 24 or July 22.  It appears that registration is still open:  https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScv1AqcPHYZBuFUZq9Sv4K7jUiQdZDCemTtpz_jaMhUYl93KA/viewform
      3. New American Association of Massachusetts is offering driving lessons for first- or second-generation kids 15+ or out of school less than 2 years.  Classes are once/week, for 2 hours, for 8 weeks from June 24-Aug. 23.  For info:  call Danny at 978-245-7792.
      4. Coalition for a Better Acre will hold its YES! Learning Center Summer Camp.  Sessions are Monday-Friday, 10am-2:30pm.  Two 3-week sessions July 8-25 and Aug. 5-22.  Registration:  https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=9s1x0qXsQUG7_uqD8I8wv8LL9ncHNEFCgZ0gz8z3ouBURTExT05PMFg0T0pQTUk2VFdZUDZLMEFaNS4u.  If you have questions, email justin.ford@cbacre.org.
      5. The Lowell Police Department is offering kids 10-16 years old a week-long program at Strongwater equestrian farm, morning or afternoon, the weeks of July 8, 15 or 22.  For info and registration:  https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScBlS4tnYFxB6cgAbZln60dYheeC0TzGexqqzYiRfAgyMyCgg/viewform?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR2-dxzM60DWuc5KPSwDcH-AGhKmkwZ99Vp0xv13t9F58xNSSgG-KmBWw_U_aem_Ab18zfKR3kKtdBX6JtbzK5O7qkVuizK7rUBsD0lsBqFL5j0mBr49vvB5GmRXB4QE_6GzoC1KopqdwTyxPC-1A89N.
    5. Fee-based summer programs:
      1. Project LEARN will hold Immersive STEM Summer Camp for kids in grades 5-12, Monday-Friday, 8am-2:30pm on UML campus, for the weeks of June 24, July 8 and July 15.  Kids in grades 9-12 can participate in Harvard MEDscience course during the weeks of July 8 and July 15, with medical-related classes and trips to Harvard Medical School.  For info:  https://projectlearninc.org/news-events/idea-camp-2024-registration
      2. Boys and Girls Club of Greater Lowell will have a summer program from July 1-Aug. 16 for kids aged 8-18.  Parents must attend an orientation, which will be held Thursdays, starting June 1, 6:30pm at the Club, 657 Middlesex Street.  For info, https://lbgc.org/join/summer-program/.
      3. Whistler House Museum of Art will have a youth summer art program for grades 5-8 (ages 10-14), focused on a different medium each week in July.  For info and registration (fee):  https://whistlerhouse.org/index.php/en/education/classes-for-children.
      4. The Middlesex County Sheriff’s Office will host its annual Youth Public Safety Academy at its Training Academy in Chelmsford.  The course is one week long, and kids aged 8-12 can sign up for any week between July 5 and Aug. 9.  Kids in Lowell who need bus transportation should sign up for the week of Aug. 5-9.  Info and registration (fee):  https://www.middlesexsheriff.org/home/news/mso-announces-registration-2024-youth-public-safety-academy-open.
      5. YWCA is holding summer STEAM camp for kids aged 7-13 on Mondays-Thursdays from 10am-3pm, at 41 Rock Street, with transportation, snack and lunch provided.  For info:  email cnapolitano@ywcaoflowell.org.  Different themes each week:
        • July 8-18          dance/yoga
        • July 22-Aug. 1 robotics
        • Aug. 5-15         art
      6. High school students can take a “Public Service Career Exploration” course at Middlesex Community College to learn about public service careers in law enforcement, emergency response, victim services, etc., from July 8-11, 9am-12:45pm.  There is a $175 fee.  MCC also offers various summer courses at its Bedford campus.  For info:  www.middlesex.mass.edu/collegeforkids.
      7. Walker’s Gymnastics & Dance is hosting Gymnastics or Dance Mini Camp from July 8-Aug. 22, Mondays-Thursdays, 9am-noon, for ages 3+.  For info:  https://www.walkersgymnasticsdance.com/summer-2024.
      8. YWCA is also holding evening sessions on these topics for kids aged 9-14, on Mondays and Wednesdays from July 8-Aug. 14, from 6-8pm at 41 Rock Street.  For info:  email cnapolitano@ywcaoflowell.org.
      9. MRT is offering its Summer Stage for Youth program in partnership with MCC from July 22-Aug. 11 for ages 8-17.  For info and registration (fee):  MRT Summer Stage for Youth | Merrimack Repertory Theatre.  The young artists will perform at MCC’s Donahue Arts Center, 240 Central Street, on Aug. 9, 7pm; Aug. 10-11, 2pm and 5pm.
      10. Altitude Hockey School, taught by UML’s hockey coaches, will be held July 29-Aug. 1, Tsongas Center, 300 MLK Way.  For info and registration (fee):  www.altitudehockeycamps.com.
      11. Terance Mann Complete Player basketball camp will be held Aug. 19-22, at The Mill Works in Westford.  For info and registration (fee):  https://tmcpf.org/camp-registration/.
    6. Kindergarten registration:  If your child will be 5 years old by September 1, register for kindergarten at Lowell Public Schools:  www.lowell.k12.ma.us/kindergartenregistration.
    7. If your child will be 4 years old by September 1, register for preschool at Lowell Public Schools:  www.lowell.k12.ma.us/preschoolregistration.  Note that transportation is not provided.  Full-day programs are available at the Bartlett, Cardinal, Greenhalge and Murkland schools.
    8. ParentChild+ is a twice-a-week home visiting program for families of kids aged 18 months to 4 years to promote language development and literacy.  The Lowell Public Schools Early Childhood Department visitor brings a book or toy for your child and discusses the importance of reading and playing with your child.  To register:  https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfqykmxiSMiTLPQt0feiVM6NjX8qaoObVxJ8qD9nREwckhcMw/viewform.

 

  1. Lowell Treasures Democracy
    1. Learn about folks running for office in Lowell races.  (This newsletter grew out of work with Lowell Votes to help voters learn about our then-new hybrid election system and the candidates.  To continue helping voters be informed, I’ll share info about candidate forums, meet-and-greets and fundraisers as I learn about them, particularly in competitive Lowell races.)
      1. Tara Hong, running for 18th Middlesex District state rep, will hold an ice cream social fundraiser at Sweet Bar, 500 Pawtucket Street, June 25, 5:30-7pm.  For info: https://linktr.ee/tarahong.
    2. Consider becoming a poll worker for the upcoming September 3 primary and/or the November 5 general election.  We need good people who love our democracy to ensure that all registered voters can vote.  For info:  https://lowellma.gov/317/Election-Workers
    3. Share your thoughts about where you get your info about Lowell and what topics might be of interest to you in a Voices of Lowell podcast:  https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScpnj2kZ_zgHjZ6cK5NjeB0vfYzmLyCX0A14ExickQQ2HAJSg/viewform.
    4. Keep up with City Council, School Committee and other city meetings by reading their agendas and minutes at https://www.lowellma.gov/AgendaCenter (the HTML and packet formats are best), and consider attending or watching meetings.
      1. Lowell TeleMedia Center (LTC) broadcasts City Council, School Committee and various other committee meetings on Channel 6, and also now live streams to YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/LTCLowellMA.  Also see the YouTube page to catch up on meetings you missed.
    5. Attend your neighborhood group meeting to learn and get involved.  Meetings are generally listed each month at https://www.lowellma.gov/371/Neighborhood-Services.  Upcoming:
      1. Downtown, June 24, and typically 4th Monday each month, 7pm, LTC, 246 Market Street
      2. Highlands, 2nd Monday each month, 7-8pm, Lowell Catholic auditorium, 530 Stevens Street
      3. Back Central, typically 3rd Thursday each month, 7pm, St. Anthony’s Hall, 920 Central Street
      4. CNAG (Centralville Neighborhood Action Group), 1st Monday each month (excluding July), 6:30-8pm, Dom Polski Club,10 Coburn St

 

  1. Fundraisers/ volunteer opportunities
    1. Consider volunteering at some of the events in this newsletter, including the Lowell Folk Festival or help Lowell Telemedia Corporation record some of the Festival.
    2. Upcoming events:
      1. Contribute to NFI Family Resource Center’s hygiene drive (e.g., menstrual products, shampoo, toothpaste, deodorant, shaving products) by dropping off items at its office at 27 Prescott Street through June 28:  https://www.likelowell.com/calendar#event=77603248;instance=20240607000000?popup=1.
      2. Lowell Parks and Conservation Trust’s annual Summer Solstice Soiree will be June 22, 5-8pm, in Lowell.  For info and tickets:  https://lowelllandtrust.org/summer-solstice-soiree-2024/.
      3. Coalition for a Better Acre’s annual 6 Degrees of the Acre, honoring Yun-Ju Choi, who will be stepping down in June after 10 years as CEO, will be held at Taffeta, Western Avenue Studios, 122 Western Avenue, June 27, 5:30-8:30pm.  For info and tickets:  https://www.coalitionforabetteracre.org/6-degrees-of-the-acre-2024.
      4. Support House of Hope by participating in Berna’s Great Legs 5K for Women, July 20, 6:15pm, Cawley Stadium, 424 Douglas Road.  For info and registration:  https://runsignup.com/Race/MA/Lowell/BernasGreatLegsforWomen5Khttps://runsignup.com/Race/MA/Lowell/BernasGreatLegsforWomen5K.
      5. Women Build is the Habitat for Humanity of Greater Lowell’s project bringing women together to learn construction skills while helping create a new home for someone in Westford or Bedford helping raise funds.  Teams can volunteer Aug. 15-17.  For info:  www.lowellhabitat.org/womenbuild
      6. The Terance Mann Complete Player Foundation will host its No Limits Fashion Event, Aug. 15, 6pm, Lowell Memorial Auditorium.  For info and tickets:  https://tmcpf.org/no-limits-fashion-event/.  Terance grew up in Lowell and plays for the LA Clippers.
      7. Lowell House will hold its annual gala Sept. 26, 5-8pm, Lowell Memorial Auditorium, 50 East Merrimack Street.  For info and tickets:  https://lowellhouseinc.app.neoncrm.com/np/clients/lowellhouseinc/eventRegistration.jsp?event=2
      8. UTEC will hold its 25th Anniversary Gala, Nov. 20, 5:30pm, Lowell Memorial Auditorium, 50 East Merrimack Street.  For info and tickets:  http://www.utecinc.org/25thgala.
      9. More details to come about these events (but you can start planning to attend!):
        • Aug. 18, 8am               Lowell Humane Society Muddy Paws 5k and Block Party, Shedd Park
        • Sept. 9, 11am              Merrimack Valley Food Bank golf tournament, Indian Ridge Country Club, Andover
        • Sept. 14, 11:30am       Lowell Transitional Living Center, Steps to Home Walk, 11:30am
        • Oct. 4, 6-10pm            Megan House Foundation trivia night, Long Meadow Golf Club, 165 Havilah Street
        • Oct. 17                        Women Working Wonders Power of the Purse, Four Oaks Country Club, Dracut
        • Oct. 23                        Greater Lowell Community Foundation Celebrate Giving
        • Oct. 24                         Community Teamwork
        • Oct. 26                        Project Kompass
        • Nov. 9, 10am-noon    Spice Drive, CBA, 450 Merrimack Street
        • Nov. 13, 6-9pm           Lowell Youth Leadership Program, UTEC, 35 Warren Street
        • Nov. 16, 10am-noon  Annual Spice Drive, 450 Merrimack Street (drop off fresh spices for community members in need to be able to better enjoy their meals
        • Nov. 16, 6pm              Cambodian Mutual Assistance Association, Sompao Meas hall, 450 Chelmsford Street
        • Dec. 5, 5:30pm            Boys and Girls Club of Greater Lowell, Lowell Memorial Auditorium
    3. The Greater Lowell Chamber of Commerce is still running its annual “Won in 50” raffle fundraiser.  Buy one of 50 raffle tickets for one of the several items to be won.  Details and tickets at:  https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/59f2caa9-c10d-46f4-b9cb-6bf2db4e6b96.
    4. Buy a brick inscribed in honor of a loved one at the Whistler Park & Victorian Garden to support Whistler House Museum of Art:  https://www.whistlerhouse.org/index.php/en/donate/brick-campaign.
    5. Every quarter, the Jeanne D’Arc Credit Union’s We Share a Common Thread Foundation, donates $1,500 to a worthy charity.  Vote for your favorite (Lowell-based) charity for this quarter through the end of June at https://www.jdcu.org/community-about/our-foundation/give-a-click/?ct=t%28April+2023+E-newsletter%29.  This quarter, the non-profits to select from are (listed in the order on the website):
      1. Friends of the Pollard Memorial Library
      2. Home Health & Hospice Care (apparently serves only NH)
      3. Methuen Memorial Music Hall
    6. Each month, Mill Town Plumbing, Heating, etc. donates $1,000 to a worthy charity.  Vote for your favorite charity at https://milltownplumbing.com/about-us/helping-hands/.  For June, the non-profits to select from are (listed in the order on the website):
      1. Central Food Ministry (based in Centralville)
      2. L’Arche Boston
      3. Greater Lowell Children’s Fund.

 

  1. Film
    1. The Lowell Film Collaborative and the Lowell Parks & Conservation Trust present their winter/spring film festival.  Shows are at 6:30pm, Lowell National Park Visitors Center, 246 Market Street.  For info:  https://lowelllandtrust.org/category/events/
      1. June 25      “Up on the Mountain”
    2. The El Encueñtro Latino Film Festival is seeking entries for its 2024 festival.  Submissions are due by Aug. 23.  The festival will be Oct. 4-5, 7pm, MCC Donahue Center, 240 Central Street.  For info:  https://elencuentrofest.com/.
    3. Check out movies at the wonderful Luna Theater, Mill No. 5, 250 Jackson Street:  https://lunalowell.com/.
      1. Including “Hedwig and the Angry Inch” on June 30.
    4. See also items 5.g.ii, 5.g.v, 5.h.x, 14.d.vii.

 

  1. Give your input:
    1. See item 1.a.
    2. Artist Quest Nine is requesting your input on a new mural to revitalize the North Common amphitheater:  https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSd-_DEcRplN1dbbxViBGL7WcHArFEno6AiRo-dnwPNJBmQcPQ/viewform.  (See also item 2.d.)
    3. Nominations are due by Aug. 30 for the 12th Annual Gateway Cities Innovation Institute Awards.  Nominate an individual, business or organization who is addressing housing issues.  For info:  https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeweK1juPSJfmcWyNp7zDs7_dgULJ64lRdKDMhZKhnOb2P2Ng/viewform.
    4. Lowell Public Schools is asking parents of students in grades 7-12 to fill out a survey to find out perceptions of teens’ use of alcohol, marijuana and vaping.  For info:  https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/LOWELL-PCN-PARENT-SURVEY.
    5. Share your perceptions about the Acre neighborhood in this survey by Mass Development:  https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdjy2ygcQgTkW2g0Z9-gVSxPnTlHBH0qpfY3IhpZrFmWGYhxQ/viewform.
    6. The city is working with artist Kit Collins to create Lowell’s first citywide public art project “Let’s Dance, Lowell!,” a network of eight dance diagrams painted directly onto the sidewalk in neighborhoods around the city.  Each mural will depict a different move choreographed by Lowell-based dancers!  Four of the dances have now been selected (see https://kitschcollins.substack.com/?utm_source=substack&utm_medium=email).  Give your input on what type of dance represents your neighborhood, where the dance moves should be painted, etc.  Ultimately we’ll be able to dance around our city.  For info and to sign up to help:  https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdj9AW_Y4yu_V0BmN0e5dIWujNCeGtUrO5d3_SscModhSGYBA/viewform.
    7. Help the Lowell Regional Wastewater Utility prioritize sewer system improvements (and maybe win a Market Basket gift card) by filling out the survey about street flooding or other sewer issues at https://www.lowellma.gov/637/Wastewater-Utility.
    8. Help Lowell TeleMedia Center create a montage to celebrate Lowell’s bicentennial (Lowell was incorporated as a town in 1826).  LTC Rewind is soliciting footage, photos and other media from the public to edit together highlights to air on cable and share on social media. The goal is to highlight what’s happening around Lowell, cross-post and tag to increase media visibility and compile a collection of footage to utilize in Lowell’s Bicentennial celebration.  For info, contact wklevisha@ltc.org.

 

  1. Lowellians help animals
    1. Caturday will be held at Taffeta, Western Avenue Studios, 122 Western Avenue, on June 22, 11am-3pm.  See cute kittens and perhaps fall in love with a new forever friend!  Gormley’s Café is co-hosting, and proceeds go to the Lowell Humane Society.  https://www.facebook.com/gormleyslowell.
    2. Lowell Humane Society offers low-cost rabies and distemper vaccines and microchips for dogs or cats ($20 per vaccine or chip) on the third Sunday of every even-numbered month (e.g., Aug. 18), from 9am-noon at 951 Broadway Street.  For info and appointment (required):  https://www.lowellhumanesociety.org/vaccine-microchip-clinic/.
    3. See also item 8.b.xvii.

 

  1. Non-library literary events:
    1. Second graders at Barlett School put together a book about empathy with the help of UML professor Bob Forrant.  To purchase a copy:  https://portal.studentreasures.com/shopping/details.
    2. The book “Self-Portrait:  Collected Writings” by Jack Kerouac is available for pre-release purchase:  https://rarebirdlit.com/self-portrait-collected-writings-by-jack-kerouac/?.
    3. Read “The Dead River Review” writings by members of MCC’s Creative Writing Program:  https://deadriverreview.com/category/issue-9/.
    4. Lala books, 189 Market Street, hosts various events (https://www.lalabookstore.com/event), including:
      1. Events:
        • Story time, celebrating National Pollinator Week:  June 23, 11am
      2. Writing groups:
        • Non-fiction writing group:  June 22, and 2nd and 4th Saturday each month, 10:30am-12:30pm
        • Lowell Writers Group:  July 20, and 3rd Saturday each month, 10:30am-12:30pm; all writers are welcome to share and discuss works
        • Mill Pages Writing Group:  July 21, and 3rd Sunday each month, noon-2pm; get involved with “Mill Pages” magazine or just share thoughts.
        • Lowell Writer’s open mic:  July 11 (2nd Thursday ‘cos of holiday), and typically 1st Thursday each month, 6:30-8pm
      3. Book clubs:
        • Queer book club:  July 17 (“Here We Go Again” by Alison Cochrun), Aug. 21 (“Bloom” by Kevin Panetta and Savanna Ganucheau), and 3rd Wednesday each month, 5pm
        • Boozy book club (small fee):  July 2 (“Silver Alert” by the great author Lee Smith), Aug. 6 (“I Have Some Questions for You” by Rebecca Makkai), and 1st Tuesday every month, 6pm, at Warp & Weft, 197 Market Street
        • Book the Bar book club (small fee; must be 21+):  July 3 (“The Spare Man” by Mary Robinett Kowal), Aug. 7 (“I Feel Awful, Thanks” by Lara Pickle), and 1st Wednesday every month, 6pm at Fuse Bistro, 45 Palmer Street

 

  1. A city of music and comedy
  1. Friends of Tyler Park are hosting free concerts in the park, on Westford Street (https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=810654707836418&set=a.434669998768226):
    • Neeley Luna                                  June 20, 6:30-8pm
    • Yours Truly band                          July 18, 6:30-8pm
    • Lowell’s own The Party Band       Aug. 15, 6-7:30pm
  2. The Lowell Philharmonic Orchestra is holding a T-shirt design competition.   Submit your design by June 21.  For info:  https://www.lowellphilharmonic.org/2024-2025-t-shirt-contest.
  3. The Lowell Busker Series runs on Fridays from 6-8pm and Saturdays from 4-6pm, through June 29, at Derby Park, 66 Middle Street, and Mack Plaza, Shattuck Street at Market Street.  For info and list of performers: https://www.likelowell.com/buskerseries.
  4. The Lowell Summer Music Series is back at Boarding House Park, 40 French Street.  For info and tickets:  https://lowellsummermusic.org/.  Shows start at 7:30pm (except as shown).  Note that, due to the Lowell High School renovation, the rain location for this summer is UML’s Durgin Hall, 35 Wilder Street.  Tickets are on sale:
    • Ben Folds                                                 June 21
    • Face 2 Face, tribute to Elton John & Billy Joel                 June 22
    • Pink Talking Fish                                         June 28
    • Buffalo Tom                                                 June 29
    • Classic Albums Live performing David Bowie albums      July 11
    • Marc Cohn                                                   Aug. 3
    • New England Film Orchestra (movie music)                    Aug. 4
    • Martin Sexton & Ryan Montbleu                  Aug. 10
    • Neighbor                                                      Aug. 16
    • Chadwick Stokes and the Pintos                 Aug. 17
    • Angkor Dance Troupe                                 Aug. 25, 6pm; free
    • Sarah Jarosz                                               Aug. 30
    • 43rd annual Banjo and Fiddle Contest        Sept. 7, 10am-6pm; free
    • Victor Wooten and the Wooten Brothers     Sept. 8
    • Let’s Sing Taylor (for you Swifties)               Sept. 14
    • Belly                                                              Sept. 15
  5. Lowell Philharmonic Orchestra (https://www.lowellphilharmonic.org/) will hold its annual free summer concert on July 7 at 2pm at Shedd Park, Rogers at Boylston Street.  The theme is “Born for Broadway!”  Bring your own chair/blanket.  Free (although donations accepted).
  6. The new Greater Lowell Symphonic Orchestra (https://www.glsymphonic.org/inaugural-season) will hold several free concerts at North Common, 413 Fletcher Street (rain location for the 2nd and 3rd concerts:  Murkland School):
    • June 29, noon-12:30pm
    • 6, 5-7                         part of National Night Out
  7. Coffee and Cotton, 4th Floor, Mill No. 5, 250 Jackson Street, hosts various entertainment evenings (https://millno5.com/events/):d
    • Poetry open mic with Lowell Poetry:       1st and 3rd Wednesday each month, 6-9pm
    • Open mic (poetry, music, storytelling):   2nd and 4th Wednesday each month, 6-9pm
    • Comedy open mic:                                    1st Thursday each month, 6:30pm
    • Trivia:                                                        2nd and 4th Thursday each month, 6-9pm
    • Spins and needles DJ:                               3rd Thursday each month, 6-9pm
    • Open mic:                                                 1st and 3rd Friday each month, 6:30pm
  8. The Keep, 110 Gorham Street, hosts karaoke every Sunday, 10pm-1am.  For info:  https://thekeeplowell.com/news-such/.
  9. Mill No. 5 has added a free monthly live Jazz Jam on the 1st Friday of every month, 6-9pm, on the 4th floor:  https://www.facebook.com/events/954227056334584/954366036320686/.
  10. Boots at the Mill, an open stage drag show (fee), 1st Saturday each month, 6-10pm, Mill No. 5, The Overlook, 5th floor, 250 Jackson Street.
    • Also Brunch ‘n Boots all ages drag brunch, June 22, 11am-2pm, 4th floor
  11. Hear bands many Saturday evenings at the Overlook, Mill No. 5, 250 Jackson Street; for info and tickets:  https://millno5.com/the-overlook-2/.
  12. The Old Court, 29 Central Street, hosts open mic (comedy, etc.), 1st Wednesday each month, 8:30pm.  For info:  https://mosaiclowell.org/event/court-jesters-open-mic/2024-02-07/.
  13. Panela Restaurant, 525 Market Street, hosts open mic (music, poetry, comedy, etc.) on Fridays, and live Latin music on Saturdays.  For info:  https://panelarestaurant.com/bar/.  See also item 20.a.
    • There will be karaoke on June 21, 9pm.
  14. Taffeta, at Western Avenue Studios, 122 Western Avenue, hosts several music events each month.  For info and tickets:  Event Schedule (taffetamusic.com).
  15. Thirsty First Tavern, 103 Market Street (https://www.facebook.com/ThirstyFirstLowell) hosts:
    • Spins and Needles (playing vinyl records)            3rd Wednesday each month, 7-10pm
    • Various bands on other dates
  16. Warp & Weft, 197 Market Street, hosts music several nights a week, as well as open mic on Thursday evenings.  To see the acts:  https://www.facebook.com/warplowell/.
  17. The Worthen House Café, 141 Worthen Street, hosts bands on various Fridays and Saturdays, 8pm.  For info and tickets: https://www.worthenhousecafe.com/events.
  18. Cherry Hill Chamber Orchestra, led by its dynamic music director Marshunda Smith, will hold its concerts at Christ Church United, 1 Bartlett Street, 3pm.  Ticket info coming soon.  Dates:
      1. Sept. 28
      2. Dec. 14
      3. March 1
      4. May 31
  1. Zorba’s Music Hall at Olympia Restaurant, 437 Market Street, hosts various bands, including tribute bands (https://zorbamusichall.com/events/) (fee, 21+).  Some upcoming shows:
      1. Panorama:  The Cars Tribute       Sept. 21, 9pm

 

  1. Shopping for food, crafts, gifts,…
    1. See item 1.b.
    2. Visit the pop-up store Mayfly Co-Lab at 51 Market Street through June 22 for upcycled and second-hand products that are sourced in and around Lowell.  For info:  https://www.mayflybus.com/mayfly-colab.
    3. The Farm Market, at Mill No. 5, 250 Jackson Street, every Sunday from 10am-1pm, year-round (https://millno5.com/the-farm-market/), is outside on the sidewalk for the summer.
      1. After you buy your eggs, bread, hot sauce, jams, etc., visit the shops on the 4th and 5th floors.
      2. Several changes:
        • A Damn Shame Records will open soon in the former Vinyl Destination spot on the 4th floor
        • Pizzelle Bakery and Roots and Spoons have closed at Mill No. 5, but will open soon in their new space at 201 Market Street, downtown.
      3. Pick up savory or sweet empanadas from Lowell food truck Empanada Dada.
      4. Shop the upcoming A Little Bazaar pop-up marketplaces on Saturdays on the 4th floor from noon-4pm with these themes:
        • Vintage Market           Aug. 24
    4. Get wonderful fresh veggies at the farmers markets:
      1. Tuesdays, 10am-2pm, through Oct. 29    Lowell Community Health Center, 161 Jackson Street, hosted by Mill City Grows
      2. Wednesdays, 2-6pm, through Oct. 30     The Sweet Bar, 500 Pawtucket Street, hosted by Mill City Grows
      3. Thursdays, 10am-2pm, through Oct. 31  Lowell Senior Center, 276 Broadway Street, hosted by Mill City Grows
      4. Fridays, 2-6pm, through Oct. 11               Hamilton Canal garage area, 350A Dutton Street, hosted by Community Teamwork and includes Mill City Grows (volunteers are welcome to come help with set up, take down, distributing lunches to the community, and supervising kids’ games; email emagovern@commteam.org)

 

  1. Lowell Stays Healthy and Keeps the City Clean
    1. The city’s pools and splash pads will be opening for the season (splash pads are open already from noon-6pm for the heat wave).  For info:  https://lowell.macaronikid.com/guides/593ed2d359455525342c380f/water-play-guide-for-greater-lowell-splash-pads-lakes-and-pools or https://lowellma.myrec.com/info/default.aspx.
    2. Learn about or apply for MassHealth at the MassHealth fair hosted by the Cambodian Mutual Assistance Association, 465 School Street, June 20, 1-3pm.  For info:  https://www.lowellsun.com/2024/06/18/the-five-minute-read-1021/.
    3. Join the Greater Lowell Health Alliance’s Community Health Fair, June 22, 9am-noon, at the Greater Lowell YMCA, YMCA Drive.  Get your blood pressure screened, info on healthy habits, a tour of the Y, and more!  For info about this and other events:  https://www.greaterlowellhealthalliance.org/news-events/calendar/.
    4. Lowell Community Health Center hosts health insurance fairs on the 2nd and 4th Saturday each month, 9am-1pm, 161 Jackson Street.  No appointments, just walk-in.  For info:  call 978-746-7771.
    5. Join Lowell Litter Krewe at one of its cleanups on Saturdays, 8am-11am (during the summer) (https://www.lowelllitterkrewe.org/calendar-gallery).  Upcoming cleanups:
      1. June 22      Lawrence Street, meet at Father Kirwin Park , 875 Lawrence Street
      2. June 29      Westford and Wood Streets, meet at CVS, 25 Wood Street
    6. Get outdoors with the Lowell Parks & Conservation Trust (https://lowelllandtrust.org/category/events/); free, but registration required:
      1. Learn about wildflowers while walking on the Concord River Greenway, July 13, 10-11:30am
      2. See also items 9.b.ii, 10.a.
    7. UML is seeking breastfeeding mothers for a study on “Biomaterials for Improving Nutritional Quality of Human Milk.”  Healthy, non-smoking, English-speaking women aged 18-40 who are nursing only one child may take part in the study.  They would provide 4 small samples of breast milk over 6 months.  For info:  https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1fOBBbNBGkIyAKIjRolmWJMBvU4QInkwxmBHvaO2VoFk/viewform?edit_requested=true.
    8. Learn how you can get your tap water tested for contaminants, as part of a UML project to develop new testing technology.  Webinar on June 18, 7-7:30pm.  For info and registration:  https://merrimack.org/events/volunteers-needed-for-tap-water-testing-project-copy/.
    9. Learn healthy tips at Dragonfly Café, 145 Thorndike Street (for info and RSVP:  https://www.dragonflycafe.org/events):
      1. Family-focused summer nutrition seminar         June 26, 6pm
    10. Kayak, canoe or stand-up paddleboard at the UML Kayak Center, Bellegarde Boathouse, 500 Pawtucket Blvd, through Sept. 1 and then Saturdays through Sept. 28.  What a great opportunity to enjoy the Merrimack!  For details:  https://www.uml.edu/campusrecreation/programs/kayak-center/.
    11. Learn to row this summer with Lowell Community Rowing.  For info:  https://www.merrimackrowing.org/mrra-programs
    12. Want a tree planted in your yard/neighborhood?  Input your address at https://www.maurbancanopy.org/ and, if you’re in a currently under-treed neighborhood, you can get a tree planted.  So far only 1/3 of the 2,400 tree goal in Lowell has been reached, so do your part to help increate the tree canopy to improve the climate and life in our neighborhoods.  Even if your street wasn’t eligible before, it might be now, as some zones were expanded.
    13. The Health Department has a syringe collection site at its office at 107 Merrimack Street during business hours.  https://www.lowellma.gov/1205/Sharps-Disposal-Options.
    14. The City’s Recreation department offers swimming, tae kwon do, yoga, Zumba, ballroom dance, swing and other classes.  Register for summer activities:  https://lowellma.myrec.com/info/activities/activities.aspx.

 

  1. Arts Showcases
  1. The exhibit “The Portuguese in Lowell:  The Familiar and the New”, photography by Pedro Letria, runs through Feb. 24 at the Lowell National Historical Park’s Boott Cotton Mills Museum, 115 John Street.
  2. Applications are through July 28 for DRAWLOWELL:confluence, art to showcase drawings to help us share ideas and forge connections.  The exhibit of selected works will run Sept. 12-Nov. 3 at UML’s University Gallery.  For info and rules:  https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfKgTAJQGb1jiMRxjr2PRmRp8y1WgqZW6xpOERFuvdH3qQcPg/viewform.
  3. Add your artistry to the Water Dragon sculpture created by Jay Hungate and being revived after 15 years in storage.  Decorate a CD or DVD at ALL Gallery or Brush Gallery.  For info:  https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=905586494703936&set=a.10150516236472986.
  4. Curation 250, Mill No. 5, 250 Jackson Street, (https://www.facebook.com/p/Curation-250-100057574694072/), hosts:
    • “Mass Love,” Massachusetts artists painting Massachusetts things.
    • Rick Hall’s poetry performance “GrowthQuakes”, on the digital screen, through June 21 (for age 16+).
  5. Gallery Z Visual & Performing Arts Center, 167 Market Street, (https://galleryzvpac.com/) is hosting:
  6. Pottery Mill, 325 Chelmsford Street, will hold a sidewalk sale, June 29 (rain date July 6), 10am-3pm.  For info:  https://greaterlowellcc.org/event/41025/.
  7. New England Quilt Museum, 18 Shattuck Street, (https://www.neqm.org/) (fee) is hosting:
    • “Humachine Sculpture”, through July 13.
    • Yellow quilts from the permanent collection, through July 13.
    • “StitchPunk”, through July 13
    • “Yellow Quilts from the Permanent Collection” through July 13.
    • “Kaleidoscope Quilts:  Works by Paula Nadelstern”, through Sept. 14, with presentation by Paula Nadelstern, June 29, 11am.
  8. Arts League of Lowell (ALL), 307 Market Street, https://www.artsleagueoflowell.org/, is hosting:
    • “Allegory and Fantasy” through July 7.
    • “Dovecot:  Pigeons of Molodemak,” through July 14, with a reception July 13, 3-5pm.
    • “Sculpture 3D,” July 12-Sept. 7, with a reception Aug. 17.
  9. Brush Gallery, 256 Market Street, https://www.thebrush.org/, is hosting:
      1. Cambodian-Lowellian traditional ceramics artist Yary Livan’s amazing work, through July 13
      2. “Art Quilts to Dye For,” July 20-Aug. 31, a juried quilt show, with a reception Aug. 10.
      3. See also item 16.b.
  1. Ayer Lofts, 172 Middle Street, (https://www.ayerlofts.com/) hosts:
      1. “Beauty Ghouls” by Robb Sandagata, through June 30.
  1. Loading Dock Gallery, at Western Avenue Studios, 122 Western Avenue, (http://www.theloadingdockgallery.com/) is hosting:
      1. “Full Bloom 6”, through June 30
      2. “Being Here,” July 3-28, with a reception July 6, 3-5pm
  1. Visit the artists at Western Avenue Studios, 122 Western Avenue, for open studios July 6, and the first Saturday of each month, from noon-5pm.  And the outdoor market is open during open studios in the summer. For info:  Western Avenue Studios – Artists • Studios • Lofts.  Enjoy Navigation Brewery, Nibbana Café and food trucks.  Also, some special treats:
      1. The band Tee & the Gents, with the fabulous lead singer Tenesha Scarlett, will perform from 1-2pm on July 6
      2. Loft 112 (160 Western Avenue, Loft 112; loft112.com):   $10 admission, 4:45pm on the following open studio dates:
        • July 6               1920 silent film “The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari” with live music
        • Aug. 3              recorder recital
  1. The Lowell Senior Center 2nd floor gallery, 276 Broadway Street, is showing exhibits on their 2nd Contact seniorctrart@gmail.com or 978-674-4131 for info and to see the show if you’re not a member.
      1. “It Is What It Is” through July 18
  1. Whistler House, 243 Worthen Street, hosts “Patrick McCay:  A Thematic Retrospective — Explore, Exploit, Express”, through Aug. 3.  For info:  https://whistlerhouse.org/index.php/en/exhibits/parker-gallery.
    • See also items 6.h.iii, 8.e.
  2. LTC hosts “Handmaid Art” (clever name!), videos with Lowell area artists, on its YouTube channel:  https://www.youtube.com/@LTCLowellMA.
  3. See art when you visit City Hall, 375 Merrimack Street (https://www.lowellma.gov/1880/Art-in-City-Hall):
      1. “Pride Perspectives”, throughout June.
      2. Lowell Senior Center art show, July and August
  2. View the great works by American Stonecraft, 133A Congress Street, which makes charcuterie boards, coasters, bowls and other amazing products out of local fieldstone.  For info:  https://www.americanstonecraft.com/lowell-gallery-studio/.
  3. See also items 3.j.
  4. Lowell Memorial Auditorium
    1. Many shows and entertainers are coming to Lowell Memorial Auditorium, 50 East Merrimack Street, https://lowellauditorium.com/ticketed-events, including:
      1. Happy Together Tour (famous ‘60s and ‘70s bands)       June 23, 7pm
      2. Atif Aslam                                                 July 27, 8pm
      3. Terance Mann Complete Player Foundation No Limits Fashion Show      Aug. 15 (see item 9.b.xi)
      4. One Night of Queen                                 Aug. 30, 8pm
      5. Benefit concert for Aaron’s Presents with Brooke Simpson       Sept. 13, 7pm
      6. Disney Jr. Live on Tour                             Oct. 20, noon and 4pm
      7. Masters of Illusion                                    Oct. 27, 5pm
      8. Celtic Thunder:  Odyssey                          Nov. 9, 7:30pm
      9. Stomp                                                       Nov. 15, 7:30pm; Nov. 16, 2pm and 7:30pm
      10. Celtic Woman:  White Christmas             Dec. 18, 7:30pm
  1. Trivia Nights:  Enjoy trivia (and buy food and drinks) at:
    1. TreMonte, 44 Palmer Street:                         Mondays, 6:30pm
    2. The Old Court, 29-31 Central Street:             Tuesdays, 7:30pm (see also item 13.n)
    3. TreMonte, 44 Palmer Street:                         Wednesdays, 6:30pm (Family Feud Night)
    4. The Keep, 110 Gorham Street:                       Wednesdays, 7pm (see also item 13.j)
    5. Warp & Weft, 197 Market Street:                  Wednesdays, 7pm (see also item 12.a.iii, 13.r)
    6. Coffee & Cotton, 250 Jackson Street:            2nd and 4th Thursdays, 6-9pm (see also item 14.i.iv)
    7. See also item 4.h.viii
  1. Chess
    1. Lowell Chess Club, https://chessinlowell.com/, welcomes all abilities to play chess at:
      1. Tuesdays, 5:30pm, Pollard Memorial Library, 401 Merrimack Street (see also item 5.j)
      2. Sundays, 1pm, Mill No. 5, 250 Jackson Street, 4th floor
  1. Dance!
    1. Enjoy salsa dancing at Panela Restaurant every Thursday from 8:30pm-midnight.  And, if you don’t know how to salsa, there are free lessons on the 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month from 7:30-8:30pm.  They also host open mic every Friday, and live Latin music on Saturdays.  For info:  https://panelarestaurant.com/bar/.
    2. Salsa in Lowell is back with Salsa on the Deck on various Sundays through Sept. 29, 262 Merrimack Street.  Keep an eye on https://www.facebook.com/salsainLowell/ for more info.  Flat shoes are recommended.
      1. June 30, 2:15-3pm class, 3-5pm dance
      2. Also, at North Common, 413 Fletcher Street, on July 6, 1-7pm (rain date July 7, noon-6pm).  For info:  https://www.lowellma.gov/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Agenda/_05292024-3114.
    3. Listen to a live Greek band and watch Greek and belly-dancing at Athenian Corner while you enjoy a meal and cocktails, every Saturday at 8pm.  For info:  https://www.atheniancorner.com/events.html.
    4. See also items 2.g.vi, 2.m.iv, 11.f, 16.n.
  1. Sports
    1. “The Cities” golf tournament:  The Lowell City golf tournament, in which players from 4 local courses compete over 3 days at (mostly) Lowell courses, is underway.  The final round will be played on June 22 in the afternoon at Long Meadow Country Club, 165 Havilah Street.   The public is invited to watch, and there will be Long Meadow festivities afterwards.
      1. WCAP 980 AM radio will also broadcast Saturday afternoon’s closing round.
    2. Professional sports in Lowell again!:  The Massachusetts Pirates of the Indoor Football League games are at Tsongas Center.
      1. Tickets:  https://tsongascenter.evenue.net/list/MP.  Their last home game this season:
        • July 1, 7:05pm             vs. Quad City Steamwheelers (and see the new exhibit about the first Black pro basketball player, Harry “Bucky” Lew, on the concourse at the Tsongas Center)
      2. WCAP 980 AM radio hosts a talk with the Pirates coach every Monday morning in the 8-8:30am window.
      3. WCAP also broadcasts all the Pirates games, home and (I believe) away.
      4. The Pirates use South Common for practices from 9am-1pm Mondays through Fridays through Aug. 31.  So you can watch the team practicing!
    3. Youth sports
      1. Registration for Lowell Pop Warner football (ages 5-13) or cheerleading (5-15) will be on July 24, 6-8pm, Reilly School, 115 Douglas Road.  Fee.  For info:  lpwcheerleading@yahoo.com.
      2. The Textile River Regatta will be on Oct. 6 and the Massachusetts Public Schools Rowing Association fall championship will be on Oct. 26.
      3. See also item 2.e, 7.e.xi, 7.e.xi.
    4. College sports
      1. Season tickets are now on sale for the UML RiverHawks hockey season at Tsongas Center:  www.goriverhawks.com/seasontickets.
  1. Grants
    1. The Lowell  National Historical Park and Mosaic Lowell are seeking composers to create short pieces for “The Measure of Work:  Sounds of Labor in Lowell”.  Apply by July 25.  Information: https://mosaiclowell.org/news/call-for-composers/?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR1j8WubBHs6omETEng4GviwNJS9aM3pLDw0OCQOGIwi_kWOGpM_j7kaUJs_aem_ZmFrZWR1bW15MTZieXRlcw.
    2. The Greater Lowell Health Alliance has opened its requests for proposal for projects that align with GLHA’s 2023 Community Health Improvement Plan.  Applications are due by 4pm on June 27.  For info:  Apply for a Grant – Greater Lowell Health Alliance.
    3. Align Credit Union has scholarships available to high school seniors or college students who’ll be enrolled in an undergrad program in 2024/25 academic year.  Applications are due by June 30.  For info:  https://www.aligncu.com/about/annual-scholarship.
    4. Eligible property owners can be rewarded up to $5,000 to help reduce the risk of sewer backups into their homes or businesses.  Applications are due by Nov. 1.  For info: https://www.lowellma.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=821.
    5. The city’s Economic Development department shared information about the Amber Grant program, a national program that awards $25,000 to one woman entrepreneur each month.  For info:  https://ambergrantsforwomen.com/get-an-amber-grant/.
    6. Mosaic Lowell has information about several grants opportunities for artists, writers, etc. at https://mosaiclowell.org/what-we-do/arts-and-culture-funding-opportunity/.

 

  1. Traffic News
    1. Please welcome the future medical leaders and their parents who will be in town from June 26-28, as part of the conference of the National Academy of Future Physicians and Medical Scientists at the Tsongas Center.  Be aware that traffic around downtown will be heavier and restaurants will be busier.  For info:  https://tsongascenter.com/events/ or https://www.futuredocs.com/.  Let’s welcome these visitors to our wonderful city!
    2. Please welcome the Jehovah’s Witnesses who will be in town from July 5-7, July 12-14, and July 19-21 at their convention at the Tsongas Center.  Be aware that traffic around downtown will be heavier and restaurants will be busier.  For info:  https://tsongascenter.com/events/ or https://www.jw.org/en/jehovahs-witnesses/conventions/?_ga=2.198192422.842825438.1718811571-140451218.1715398214&_ga=2.198192422.842825438.1718811571-140451218.1715398214.  Let’s welcome these visitors to our wonderful city!
    3. The Lowell Regional Transit Authority (LRTA) is making several improvements to its service (https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=1369567670642483&set=a.84310106328914):
      1. Ride for free during July (https://lrta.com/news/ride-the-bus-for-free-july-2024/)
      2. A new bus tracking app is coming in July
      3. 3 routes will increase to service every half hour
      4. 3 combined routes will become 6 separate routes
      5. Service on Route 12 is also improving (https://lrta.com/news/rte-12-tewksbury-via-rte-38-service-improvements-effective-monday-june-24-2024/)
      6. 3 new hybrid buses are in the fleet with more on the way
      7. A training program for how to best use the LRTA is available to all customers, including recent immigrants
    4. New speed limit of 25 mph now applies on most roads in the City, unless otherwise posted (https://www.lowellma.gov/1817/Citywide-25-MPH-Speed-Limit and https://insidelowell.com/slow-down-lowell-25-is-the-new-55/).

What an amazing city we live in!  Please enjoy and support all the great work going on in Lowell.  We are all Lovellians!