The Five Minute Read
MLK Jr. Distinguished Service Award
LOWELL — Umass Lowell students Cintya Gajardovejar, of Lowell, Fahad Alden, of Bedford, and Beatriz Martins, of Somerville, were recognized by the university during the 12th annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Distinguished Service Award ceremony on Wednesday, Jan. 25. The recipients were honored for their commitment to social change and their service to the campus and community.
Gajardo-vejar is a doctoral candidate in business, with a focus on entrepreneurship. A native of
Chile, she participates in programs and networking events for international students. She also advocates for students with disabilities, and as a residential life mentor, helps undergraduate students develop strong study skills.
Martins is a business administration major in the Manning School of Business and member of the university’s Honors College. She is a first-generation college student who coordinates lunch meetings with faculty for commuter students. Martins is also a member of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society.
Alden is a digital media major who interviews local leaders on his podcast,
“Lessons We Can Take from Today.” In 2021, he became the youngest elected member of the Bedford Library Board of Trustees. Alden is a member of the Student Government Association and a peer leader who advances the well-being of his fellow students through one-on-one mentoring. He is also the author of “Teen’s Guide to Level Up.”
Housing action meeting
LOWELL — Lifting Lowellians: Assistance and Mutual Aid invites the public to a meeting of the Housing Action committee on Thursday, Feb. 16, at 6 p.m., at Lowell Telemedia Center, 246 Market St. The meeting to discuss housing and the unhoused is preceded by a potluck, and participants are encouraged to bring a dish to share. Although dedicated child care is not available, children are welcome. For information, call 978-483-0107.
Free COVID vaccine clinics
LOWELL — Three COVID vaccination clinics are scheduled at Lowell General Hospital Saints Campus, Saturday, Feb. 18 and Feb. 25 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Thursday, Feb. 23 from noon to 8 p.m., 1 Hospital Drive. As part of a special promotion, residents ages 6 months and older who get vaccinated — first dose, second dose or booster — will receive a $75 gift card, while supplies last. No ID or health insurance is required.
Staying up to date on vaccines, including boosters, is the most effective way to prevent serious illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccine protection goes down over time, boosters offer protection from the virus, and protect individuals from serious COVID-19 following a previous infection.
For information, call 211 or 877-211-6277, and press 1, or log on to bit. ly/40wvkmr.
Fiction book group
TEWKSBURY — The Page-turners Fiction Book Group meets in person to discuss “The Guest List,” by Lucy Foley on Wednesday, Feb. 22, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., at the Tewksbury Public Library, 300 Chandler St. In the story, a guest turns up dead during a wedding celebration on a remote island off the coast of Ireland. Copies of the book are available at the front desk prior to meeting. New members welcome. No registration required. For information, email Nicole Goolishian at ngoolishian@ tewksburypl.org or call 978-640-4490.