Greater Portland

Benefits

Saturday 12/31

Polar Bear Plunge to support the Natural Resources Council of Maine’s work to reduce global warming, 11:30 a.m., East End Beach, Portland, register at supporters.nrcm.org/register.

Bulletin Board

Center for Maine Craft, in the Maine Mall through December 2011, open regular and extended Maine Mall hours, FMI 772-8653.

Circle of Musicians, Sundays, 2-7 p.m., 263 Pine Point Road, $3/person, $5/couple, hosted by Ron & Sherri Nick, FMI sheriwaves@yahoo.com.

Winter Farmers’ Market, 10 a.m-2 p.m. every Sunday, South Portland Planning Office, corner of Ocean St. and Rt. 77.

Wednesday 12/28

Story Telling Circle with Deena R. Weinstein, 6:30-8 p.m., Dobra Tea, 151 Middle St., dobrateame.com.

Friday 12/30

Fine Free Day, sign up for a fine-free library card, Scarborough Public Library, 48 Gorham Road, Scarborough, FMI 883-4723 ext 6267.

Saturday 12/31

New Year’s Planetarium, 8 p.m.-12 a.m., Southworth Planetarium, 70 Falmouth St., Portland, suggested $6 donation, 780-4249.

Open Sky New Year Celebration, 8 p.m., One Longfellow Square, 181 State St., Portland, $20 per person/$50 family, cowpastureproductions.com.

Ongoing

Bridges for Peace Vigil, Sundays 12-1 p.m., South Portland end of Casco Bay Bridge.

Calico Quilters, first and third Mondays, 7-9 p.m., Masonic Hall, Mill St., Yarmouth, 846-0783.

Cumberland County Tea Party meetings, 2 p.m. Sundays, open to public, American Legion Cabin, 196 Main St., Yarmouth, Marie Doucette, 284-7032 or 229-3516.

The Food Share, held by First Baptist Church Food Ministry, perishable food items available every Sunday from 5-6 p.m., First Baptist Church, 346 Main St., Yarmouth, enter at side door on Center St., Meagan, 846-3087.

The Kiwanis Club of Portland, second and fourth Tuesdays, 5:30-7:15 p.m., $10, The Woodfords Club, 179 Woodford St., Portland, register, Peter Brown, 797-7383 or Michele Giroux, 854-6232.

Cribbage Night, Scarborough Lions Club, 6-8 p.m. Tuesdays, free, open to the public, Lions’ Den, 273 Gorham Road, across from Sam’s Club, Scarborough, 650-3644.

Portland Republican City Committee monthly meetings, fourth Monday of each month, FMI, portlandcitygop.com.

Yarmouth Central Men’s Club, second Monday of every month, 6:30 p.m., dinner and speaker, 846-3376 or 846-1561.

Call for Volunteers

AARP Foundation Tax Aide program seeks volunteers, contact Joan Jagolinzer, 883-8415 or jagolinzer@gwi.net.

ASSE International Student Exchange Program is looking for volunteers to be area representatives to recruit and screen prospective host families, interview students to study abroad, and supervise the visiting exchange students in their community. Volunteers will be reimbursed for expenses and have some opportunity to travel. FMI Joyce McKenney 737-4666.

CATCH Healthy Habits, an after-school program that brings teams of adults, age 50+, together with children to learn about healthy eating habits and active play, is looking for volunteers for its winter sessions, 396-6523.

Maine Handicapped Skiing needs intermediate/advanced skiers, snowboarders and nordic skiers with training in adaptive skiing. Lift tickets provided, volunteers supply their own gear, commit to three days of training. FMI skimhs.org or 824-2440.

SCORE is seeking volunteers to work in the “counselors to America’s small business” program, FMI, Nancy, 772-1147.

South Portland Meals on Wheels needs drivers for South Portland, Scarborough and Cape Elizabeth, 1-3 hours per week, mornings. Mileage reimbursement, Liz Engel, 767-2255.

Ongoing

ActionBasedCare.org needs volunteers to expand organization, ABC believes in empowerment through sailing, and action-based activities to relieve depression, check website or 831-4151.

Allegiance Hospice is looking for volunteers to visit patients under hospice care in nursing homes in York and Cumberland Counties, volunteers receive formal training, Katharyn LeDoux, 877-255-4623 or kledoux@allegiancehospice.com.

Alzheimer’s Association, Maine Chapter, has ongoing volunteer opportunities for caring people who can offer 3-4 hours per week, 383 U.S. Route 1, Suite 2C, Scarborough, 772-0115.

American Red Cross needs volunteers in the disaster services, health and safety and administration departments, 874-1192 ext. 105.

The Cedars welcomes volunteers to help with activities and special events, including young child/parent and pet visits, 630 Ocean Ave., Portland, 772-5456.

Compass Project needs volunteers with tools, carpentry or boat skills for the boat building festival and youth boat building classes, 774-0682 or compassinfo@maine.rr.com.

Cumberland County Extension Association seeks people to serve on its executive committee, meets third Wednesday every month from 7-9 p.m. at Barron Center, Portland, 800-287-1471 or aherr@umext.maine.edu.

Deliver Meals on Wheels, mileage reimbursement, flexible days and weeks, one to two hours a day, 800-400-6325.

Fiddlehead Center for the Arts is looking for volunteers for ongoing projects and special events, earn credits in exchange for classes, ages 16+, Fiddlehead Center for the Arts, 383 U.S. Route 1, Scarborough, 883-5720, fcascarborough.org.

Freeport Community Services and Center needs people to help make a difference, 865-3985.

Freeport Historical Society needs ongoing help cataloguing collections, greeter/receptionist at Harrington house, garden helper, poster delivery assistance, administrative help, handy-person, 865-3170 or info@freeporthistorialsociety.org.

Friends of Feral Felines needs hardy volunteers to feed hungry cats on the Portland waterfront, 1-2 hours per month, training provided, 797-3014.

Greater Portland Mentoring Partnership needs adult mentors for school-age children, 888-387-8758.

Guiding Eyes for the Blind needs volunteer puppy raisers in the Cape Elizabeth, Portland, Yarmouth, Freeport, and Bath/Brunswick areas, keep puppy from age 8 weeks-16 months, free training, support. FMI, Kathleen Hayward, kh@millspoint154.com, guidingeyes.org.

HART, Homeless Animal Rescue Team, a no-kill cat shelter in Cumberland, is looking for volunteers who love cats to help in the shelter, 3-4 hours in the morning, one or two days a week, call 829-4116 or 846-3038.

Hearts and Horses Therapeutic Riding Center volunteers needed to help people with disabilities experience riding, call Vickie 929-4700, or 807-7757.

Homeless Animal Rescue Team seeks direct care volunteers, facilities maintenance, fundraisers, cleaning supplies, canned cat food, 302 Range Road, Cumberland, 829-4116 or 846-3038.

Hospice Volunteers needed for Allegiance Hospice, to visit patients in nursing homes in York and Cumberland counties, Nicole Garrity, 877-255-4623 or ngarrity@allegiancehospice.com.

ITNPortland needs volunteer drivers, help seniors and visually impaired adults enjoy independence and quality of life, commit to one or more hours per month, 854-0505.

Literacy Volunteers of Greater Portland needs volunteers for student-centered tutoring, education for nonliterate adults and English as a Second Language instruction, 780-1352 for training information.

Meals on Wheels, Portland/Westbrook, needs volunteer drivers to deliver meals to homebound elderly, once a week, once a month or more on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays or Fridays, 10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m., mileage reimbursement offered, call Alice or Laurie at 878-3285.

Melanoma Education Foundation seeking used car donations, call Cars Helping America, 1-866-949-3668, skincheck.org.

Mercy Hospital in Yarmouth needs volunteers, contact Melissa Skahan, Manager of Mission Services, 879-3286 or skahanm@mercyme.com.

Recovery International, self-help group for nervous people, 10 a.m. Saturdays, Maine Medical Center Conference Center, 22 Bramhall St., Portland, free, all welcome, Diane, 892-9529.

Road to Recovery, American Cancer Society needs volunteers to drive cancer patients to their doctors’ appointments, 1-800-227-2345.

TogetherGreen Volunteers needed for conservation projects at Scarborough Marsh, call Audubon Center at 883-5100, or smac@maineaudubon.org.

The University of Maine Cooperative Extension seeks volunteers to serve on its executive committee; aherr@umext.maine.edu, 780-4205 or 1-800-287-1471 to request information packet.

VolunteerMaine AmeriCorps VISTA Projects seeks members; living allowance, health care, education award; apply online AmeriCorps.gov; Meredith Eaton 941-2800 ext. 207, meredithe@unitedwayem.org.

Dining Out

Saturday 12/31

Baked Bean Supper, 4:30-6 p.m., Tuttle Road United Methodist Church, 52 Tuttle Road, Cumberland, $8 adults/$5 ages 12 and under.

Saturday 1/7

Baked Bean Supper, 5-6:30 p.m., 20 Mill St., Yarmouth, adults $8/ kids $5/ kids under 5 free, 846-4724.

Ongoing

Haddock Chowder Lunch, second and fourth Fridays, 11:30 a.m.- 1 p.m., $8, South Freeport Church Community Hall, 98 South Freeport Road, South Freeport, 865-4012.

Jazz Dinner Buffet, Sundays, 6-9 p.m.; buffet 6-8 p.m., $15 adult/ $12.50 senior or student, Events on Broadway, 729 Broadway, South Portland; $6.50 advance discount senior tickets at Southern Maine Agency on Aging, Scarborough, ptcmaine.com.

Church of St. Mary the Virgin, Free Community Soup Dinner, 5-7 p.m., second and fourth Fridays, St. Mary’s Parish House, 43 Foreside Road, Falmouth, 781-3366 or admin@smary.org.

Summer Sunday Jazz Brunch, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Sundays, through summer, Cafe Cambridge, 740 Broadway, South Portland, 899-1884, cambridgecoffeebar.com.

Garden & Outdoors

Wednesday 1/4

Extending the Temperate Hiking Season, 7 p.m., Allen Avenue Unitarian Universalist Church, Portland, programs@moac.org.

Ongoing

Cumberland Farmers Market Assoc. Winter Market, Allen Sterling and Lothrop, US Rte 1, Falmouth, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m., Wednesday and Saturday, in the Greenhouse, cumberlandfarmersmarket.org.

Eastern Cemetery History Tours, led by Spirits Alive, 1:30-3 p.m., Sundays through October, meet at Congress Street gate at 1:15 p.m., $7 adults, $4 senior, ages 12 and under free, cash only, canceled if rain, Eastern Cemetery, Portland, spiritsalive.org.

Getting Smarter

Saturday 1/7

Integrative Art & Music Classes, Cricket Hunt School, through Feb. 11, $185, 865-9696 or information@crickethunt.com.

Ongoing

Acculturation Training for Immigrants by Living with Peace, 5-7 p.m. Wednesdays, 92 Congress St., Munjoy Hill, Portland, 766-8719.

Business Workshops, Women’s Business Center and Maine Small Business Development Center hold small business workshops online; for information and registration, 882-7552 ext. 167 or e-mail sll@ceimaine.org.

Downeast Dames, study and invest in the stock market in a social atmosphere, meets once a month, Freeport High School, 30 Holbrook St., Freeport, 865-1220 or 729-7673.

“Judaism for the Curious,” every other Sunday 9:30-11 a.m., Temple Beth El, 400 Deering Ave., Portland, 774-2649.

French Conversation, 5-8 p.m. Fridays, The Language Exchange, Suite 24-26, 80 Exchange St., Portland, 772-0405 or immersionprograms.com.

Portland SCORE, ongoing business workshops led by volunteers, small fee, 100 Middle St., Second Floor, East Tower, Portland, scoremaine.com, 772-1147.

SAGE at USM, Tuesday lectures, 9:30-1:30 a.m., $5, Wishcamper Center, USM Portland campus, register and list of lectures, 780-4406.

The Telling Room, drop-in tutoring Tuesday and Thursday 2:30-4:30 p.m., various workshops available, 225 Commercial St., Suite 201, Portland, 321-2780 or tellingroom.org.

USM Southworth Planetarium, shows, classes and astronomical events, Science Building, 96 Falmouth St., Portland campus, 780-4249 or usm.maine.edu/planet.

Health & Support

Thursday 1/5

Free Leg Screening, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., The Vein Health Center, 100 Foden Road, Suite 307, South Portland, appointment required, 221-7799.

Ongoing

All-Recovery support meetings, 12-1 p.m. Wednesdays, Hope.Gate.Way., 185 High St., Portland, Ronni, 756-8116.

“Better Breathing Buddies,” support group for lung disease patients and caregivers, 2-3:30 p.m. first Tuesdays, Bayview Heights, 158 North St., Portland, dbaillargeon@maine.rr.com, 879-4373.

Cancer Community Center, daily classes, support groups, 778 Main St., South Portland, 774-2200 or cancercommunitycenter.org.

Christian Meditation Gathering, hosted by United Methodist communities of Hope.Gate.Way, 6 p.m. Wednesdays, 185 High St., Portland, newlightportland.org, 899-2435.

CODA: Co-Dependents Anonymous meeting, 6-7 p.m. every Tuesday, Brighton Medical Center, Brighton Ave., Portland, see receptionist for room location, Diana at 749-7443 or Pauline 926-5718.

Drop-In Bereavement Support Group, facilitated by Carol Schoneberg of Hospice of Southern Maine, 5:30-7 p.m., free, first Wednesday of the month, St. Nicholas Episcopal Church, 350 U.S. Route 1, Scarborough, Carol Schoneberg, 289-3651, or cschoneberg@hospiceofsouthernmaine.org.

Divorce Perspectives, a support group for people in all stages of divorce, meets Wednesdays, 7:30 p.m., North Deering Congregational Church, 1364 Washington Ave., Portland, call 232-1667 or info@divorceperspectives.org.

Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous (FA), free Twelve-Step recovery program for anyone suffering from food obsession, overeating, under-eating or bulimia, foodaddicts.org, 775-2132.

Greater Portland Mothers of Multiples Club, support group for mothers and expectant mothers of multiples, meets first Wednesday of each month, 6:30 p.m., Barron Center, Brighton Ave., Portland, gpmomc.org.

Gynecological and Breast Cancer Group, 6-7:30 p.m., second and fourth Tuesday, Cancer Community Center, 778 Main St., South Portland, 774-2200, or cancercommunitycenter.org.

HOPE Groups, wellness support group with Elizabeth Holder, LADC Guide, Fridays, 5:30-7 p.m., Serenity House, 30 Mellen St., Portland, Liz, 899-2733, HopeHealing.org.

Leukemia & Lymphoma Support Group meets on the third Tues. of every month, Cancer Community Center, 778 Main St., South Portland, FMI (508) 810-1329.

Moms in Recovery, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Fridays, The Salvation Army, Cumberland Ave., Portland, free, with on-site childcare, Amanda, 756-8053.

Nar-Anon Family Support Group, for families of drug addicts, 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Dana Education Center, Maine Medical Center, Bramhall St., Portland, 594-2801.

NAMI Portland, National Alliance on Mental Illness, support group meetings for people coping with a loved one’s mental illness; meetings are second, fourth Mondays, 7-8:30 p.m., The Dana Center, Maine Medical Center, Portland; and third Mondays, 7-8:30 p.m., Spring Harbor Hospital, Westbrook, 899-0465 or 838-5733, namiportland@gmail.com.

Nutrition Works LLC, healthy cooking classes, 805 Stevens Ave., Portland, register at 772-6279 or nutritionworks.us.

Overeaters Anonymous, Portland meetings: Sunday, 7-8:30 p.m., Maine Medical Center, 335 Brighton Ave.; Tuesday, 6 p.m., Woodfords Congregational Church, Route 1; Saturday, first time at OA, 9:30-10 a.m., Maine Medical Center, Dana Center, 22 Bramhall St.; Saturdays, 10 a.m., Maine Medical Center, Dana Center, 22 Bramhall St., oamaine.org.

Prostate Cancer Support Group, 6:30-8:30 second Tuesday, Cancer Community Center, 778 Main St., South Portland, 774-2200 or cancercommunitycenter.org.

Sadhana Meditation Center, The Castle, Lower Level, 100 Brickhill Ave., South Portland, center open to people of all faiths, Ashok, analamalapu@hotmail.com, 772-6898.

“Sunday Morning Recharge: Meditate!” 10-11:15 a.m. Sundays, $10, Falmouth Memorial Library, 5 Lunt Road.

Support Group for Survivors of Suicide Loss, 7-8:30 p.m. second and fourth Mondays, Classroom 1, Dana Center, Maine Medical Center, Portland, facilitated by Sandra Horne, LCSW, 662-7323, and Robert Myers, LCPC, 409-6226.

Women Ages 40-64, mammograms and pap tests available at no cost through Maine Breast and Cervical Health Program, 874-8942 or 800-350-5180.

Widow-Widowers Support Group, second and fourth Wednesday, 6 p.m., Woodfords Congregational Church, 202 Woodford St., Portland, 767-0920.

Workaholics Anonymous, 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays, ongoing, Dana Learning Center, Classroom 2, Maine Medical Center, 22 Bramhall St., WAPortlandME@gmail.com.

Yoga for Parkinson’s, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Wednesdays, free, Family Ice Center, 20 Hat Trick Drive, Falmouth, sponsored by American Parkinson Disease Association, RSVP, 653-3319.

Young Widows and Widowers Group open to people age 50 or younger meets twice a month on Friday evenings at The Center for Grieving Children, Portland, Valerie Jones, 775-5216 for information or to schedule an initial meeting.

Just for Seniors

The Retired & Senior Volunteer Program of Southern Maine Agency on Aging is looking for people age 55 and over to volunteer; local opportunities include an arts center in Portland; school mentoring or tutoring; spend time with residents in long term care facilities; volunteer as a tax aide or at a nonprofit, Priscilla Greene, 396-6521 or 1-800-427-7411 Ext. 521.

Ongoing

Bingo at Hillcrest, Friday 11:30 a.m., $2 unlimited, bring your own lunch, 108 Hillcrest Ave., Scarborough, 730-4150.

Cards & Coffee, every Tuesday and Thursday 10 a.m., play bridge, cribbage or just socialize, open to the community, Casco Bay YMCA, 14 Old South Freeport Road, Freeport, 865-9600.

Enhance Fitness, group exercise program for 50 and older to improve strength, balance, flexibility and cardiovascular fitness, MWF 9-10 a.m. or 10:15-11:15 a.m., Basics Fitness Center, 380 Western Ave., South Portland, 774-3536

Freeport Elders Association, walk at Freeport YMCA 12-2 p.m. Friday, crafts at the center 9-11:30 a.m. Thursday, daily programs, call for newsletter, 865-6462.

PROP Senior Volunteer Program seeks men and women 60+ to join foster grandparent or senior companion program, 773-0202 or propeople.org.

The Retired & Senior Volunteer Program of Southern Maine Agency on Aging is looking for people age 55 and over to volunteer; local opportunities include an arts center in Portland; school mentoring or tutoring; spend time with residents in long term care facilities; volunteer as a tax aide or at a nonprofit, Priscilla Greene, 396-6521 or 1-800-427-7411 Ext. 521.

Senior Breakfast Community Meals, hosted by Wayside Food Programs and the West End Neighborhood Association, 7-8:30 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, free for seniors, must sign in, Reiche Community Center, 166 Brackett St., Portland, wenamaine.org.

Senior drop-in center, 9 a.m.- 3 p.m. Monday-Friday, Salvation Army Senior Center, 297 Cumberland Ave., Portland, 774-6304.

Yarmouth Seniors, second Wednesday, home-cooked meal and fellowship, 12 p.m. lunch, guest speaker follows, Community House, East Main St., Yarmouth.

Kids and Family

Ongoing

Bayside Neighborhood Programs, Monday girls group 3:30-5 p.m.; Wednesday art group with Cindy, 3:30-5 p.m.; Unity Village, 24 Stone St., Portland, snacks provided, 415-0769.

Children’s Museum of Maine, ongoing cultural, educational, fun and active workshops for kids and parents, 142 Free St., Portland, 828-1234 or kitetails.com.

Falmouth Memorial Library, Books with Babies, story-time and sing-along, 4 p.m. Thursdays, 10 a.m. Fridays, ages birth to age 3; preschool storytime, ages 3-5 and caregiver, 10 a.m. Thursdays, no registration required; Story and Craft times for ages 5 and older, 4 p.m. second Wednesdays, preregistration required; Falmouth Memorial Library, 5 Lunt Road, Falmouth, falmouth.lib.me.us, 781-2351.

Scarborough Public Library Story Times, call for times, Scarborough Public Library, 48 Gorham Road, 883-4723.

Greenlight Studio, eco-friendly play space for kids 0-6 and their grownups, 49 Dartmouth St., Portland, greenlight-studio.com, info@greenlight-studio.com.

Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Co. and Museum, 10 a.m.- 4 p.m., seven days a week, $1 children 3-12, adults $2; 58 Fore St., Portland, 828-0814.

Portland Girls Center, accepting enrollments for after-school program for girls ages 6-14, fees based on sliding scale, transportation from schools provided, open daily until 6 p.m., 347-8015.

Scarborough Public Library Children’s Programs: Baby Tuesdays 11-11:30 a.m., newborns to 18 months; Toddler Tuesdays 10:15-10:45 a.m., ages 18 months and older with an adult; Monthly First Tuesday Pajamarama 6:30-7:30 p.m., ages 3-8; Third Sunday Social, 1:30-3 p.m., grades 3-6; Registration required for Sunday Socials only, sign up by phone 883-4723 ext. 3, all events are free and open to the public, Scarborough Public Library, 48 Gorham Road, scarborough.library.me.us.

Signing for Babies, Monday 9:30-10:30 a.m., Community Counseling Center, 43 Baxter Blvd., Portland, $3; 874-1030.

Story Time! for preschoolers 3-5, Tuesday 10:30 a.m.; for toddlers 1-2, Wednesday 10 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.; for babies up to 18 months, Thursday 10:30 a.m. and 11 a.m.; free for children and caregivers, South Portland Branch Library, 155 Wescott Road, South Portland, 775-1835.

Storytime at South Portland Main Library, Fridays, 10:30 a.m. ages 1- 2; 11 a.m. ages 3-5; 482 Broadway, South Portland, 767-7660.

Teen After Hours, Portland Public Library, for teens only, first Wednesday of each month, 7-9 p.m., hang out, play video games, watch movies, use computers, peruse teen-oriented books, Portland Public Library, 5 Monument Square, Portland, in collaboration with the Portland Police Department, FMI, Justin Hoenke, teen librarian, 871-1700, ext. 772.

Mid Coast

Benefits

Ongoing

Fields of the Future bottle redemption, Bootleggers of Topsham, Maine, donate your returnables to “Turf McMann,” Bootleggers will donate an extra 10 percent of all donations, Fields4ourfuture.org.

Bulletin Board

Sunday 1/8

Bath Antiques Show, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., $4, Bath Middle School, 6 Old Brunswick Road, 443-8983.

Pejepscot Geneology Society meeting, 2 p.m., Curtis Memorial Library, 23 Pleasant St., Brunswick, 833-7371.

Ongoing

Bridge Groups, 7-9 p.m. Fridays for beginners; 2-4 p.m. Sundays for experienced players, 45 Green St., Bath, register, 443-3901.

First Light Camera Club, 21st year, new members welcome, open to photographers of all skill levels, twice-monthly programs, lectures, demos, field trips, critique nights, more, meetings second and fourth Thurs., Sept.-May, 7-8:30 p.m., Midcoast Senior Center Community Room, 58 Baribeau Dr., Brunswick, FMI, firstlightcc.com, Jill Lorom, 841-7822.

International Association of Administrative Professionals, Mid Coast Area Chapter meets third Wednesday of the month, September-May, 5:15-7:30 p.m., Mid Coast Pizza and More, Bath, monthly speakers, networking, mcac-iaap.org/index.

Kinship Families Support Group, raising a family member’s child with love, first and third Wednesday, 5:30-7:30 p.m., Midcoast Maine Community Action, 34 Wing Farm Parkway, Bath, preregister 442-7963 ext. 213.

Kaleidoscope Quilters, second (7 p.m.) and fourth (6:30 p.m.) Thursday of the month, Elks Lodge, Park Row, Brunswick, 725-5242.

Knitting Circle, Tuesday 3:30-5 p.m., for experienced and learners, Patten Free Library, 33 Summer St., Bath.

NARFE Merrymeeting Chapter 1796, National Active and Retired Employees Association, meeting every third Thursday of the month (except July/August), 11:15 a.m., The Bounty Restaurant at the Holiday Inn, Bath, membership/information, Chuck Hanson, 677-2367 or Anne Philippon, 725-2425.

Small Business Saturday in downtown Brunswick, first Saturday of every month, 6 a.m. – 11 p.m., approximately 30 businesses participating, visit 10 businesses to collect stamps and be eligible to win prizes, brunswickdowntown.org.

Veterans Benefits Assistance, third Tuesday of each month, forms, information on obtaining benefits, free, appointment required, Spectrum Generations, 12 Main St., Topsham, 729-0475.

Write On! writers group, led by Bonnie Wheeler, Wednesdays 12:30-3 p.m., donations appreciated, People Plus Community Center, 35 Union St., Brunswick, sign up, 729-0757.

Call for Donations

AniMeals is accepting dog and cat food donations for homebound seniors who receive Meals on Wheels, to donate or volunteer, call Sarah, 729-0475.

Call for Volunteers

Midcoast CA$H Coalition, seeks volunteers for free tax prep and financial asset coaching. Training, early Dec. and Jan. 2012. FMI Sharon Ross 373-1140, sharon.ross@voanne.org, visit cashmaine.org/locations/midcoast.

Ongoing

Androscoggin Home Care & Hospice has a growing need for hospice volunteers in the Brunswick area, training, call 777-7740, AHCH.org.

ArtVan Program seeks volunteers to help with art therapy programming with children and teens, promotional support and fundraising efforts, contact 371-4125 or visit artvanprogram.org.

Bath Youth Meetinghouse & Skatepark seeks volunteers to help in the cafe, at concerts, supporting youth programs and fundraising efforts, experience with teenagers helpful, 443-8900 or visit 26 Summer St., Bath.

Big Brothers Big Sisters seeks volunteer mentors (must be 18+) willing to commit one year and spend eight hours a month with a child 6-14 who lives in a single parent home, contact Brunswick office at 729-7736 or bigbbigs@bbbsbathbrun.org.

Cell Phones for Soldiers, donate used cell phones at Southern New Hampshire University, 10 Tibbetts Drive, Cooks Corner, Brunswick or 1000 Burbank Ave., BNAS Building 20, Brunswick.

Chocolate Church Arts Center seeks volunteers for the art gallery and more, 798 Washington St., Bath, 442-8455.

The Greater Bath Elder Outreach Network, a program of Catholic Charities Maine, is looking for volunteers a few hours a week to assist seniors by providing companionship, transportation, assistance with errands and telephone reassurance for elderly and disabled people who live in Sagadahoc County and the Brunswick area, Martha Cushing, 837-8810; meetings 6-7:30 p.m. the third Wednesday of the month, Patten Free Library, Bath, 837-8810.

Habitat for Humanity/7 Rivers Maine needs volunteers at ReStore in Bath, minimum four-hour shift commitment, 386-5081 or michele@habitat7rivers.org.

Home to Home, an organization providing a safe place for parents to exchange children for visitations, needs volunteers, commitment of 1-2 hours per exchange period, police check and training required, Mid-Coast Hospital, Brunswick, Rich Siegel, 837-4894, mainehometohome.org.

Meals on Wheels drivers urgently needed, Wednesdays and Fridays, information, 729-0475, Spectrum Generations, 12 Main St., Topsham.

Mid Coast Hospital, dozens of positions at the café, gift shop, or greeting patients, 123 Medical Center Drive, Brunswick, 373-6015.

Mid Coast Senior Health Center needs volunteers for various activities with seniors Saturdays, Sundays and holidays, welcome desk openings, 373-369

Money Management Program, help low-income seniors with routine financial matters, Spectrum Generations, 12 Main St., Topsham, 729-0475.

Parkview Adventist Medical Center, gift shop needs volunteers, four-hour shifts mornings, afternoons and early evenings Monday through Friday, every other Sunday 1-4 p.m., will train, 373-4518 or visit the gift shop at 329 Maine St., Brunswick.

Pejepscot Historical Society needs volunteer tour guides for Skolfield-Whittier House and Joshua L. Chamberlain Museum and volunteer staff for Chamberlain Museum gift shop, 729-6606.

People Plus Center, ongoing opportunities, 6 Noble St., Brunswick, 729-0757.

Red Cross Training, Disaster Action Team, free, basic classes provide foundation for delivering assistance in emergency situations, weekday evenings, course schedules at midcoast.redcross.org, register on line or call 729-6779, 563-3299, MidCoastRedCross.net, 16 Community Way, Topsham.

“Road to Recovery,” American Cancer Society’s transportation program seeks volunteers to help cancer patients get to their treatment appointments, call Janice Staples, 373-3715, janice.staples@cancer.org, American Cancer Society, One Bowdoin Mill Island, Topsham.

Spectrum Generations has volunteer opportunities in program development, outreach, and reception at its new Community Center at 12 Main St., Topsham, Debbie, 729-0475.

Sexual Assault Support Services of Mid Coast Maine needs volunteers to provide support and information to callers on 24-hour hotline, 725-2181.

Dining Out

Ongoing

Public Breakfast Buffet, third Sunday of the month, 7:30-10 a.m., suggested donation, $6 adults, $3 children under 12, $15 max, Knights of Columbus Hall, 807 Middle St., Bath, Bob Turcotte, 443-6015.

Vegetarian Community Meal, sponsored by Brunswick Food Not Bombs, most Sundays, 12-3 p.m., free, all welcome, in front of Brunswick Savings Bank (next to Joshua’s), foodnotbombs.net.

Garden and Outdoors

Ongoing

Cathance River Educational Alliance, series for adults, “CREA Adult Class” 2nd Saturday of each month, 9 a.m. – noon, the Ecology Center, Cathance River Nature Preserve, Topsham; “Ecology Lecture Series,” last Tuesday each month, 6:30-8 p.m., Topsham Public Library; 12 participants, cost per class, $15 members/ $20 non-members, register, creamaine.org, click on “Programs,” 798-1913 or e-mail cathanced@gwi.net.

Topsham Garden Club, noon lunch, 1 p.m. speaker and business meeting; call Marie 729-1295 or Jane 721-8675 for location and membership info; new members/guests always welcome; mainegardenclubs.org (select GCFM Districts and Clubs, Medomak District, Topsham Garden Club), meets second Wednesday from March to December.

Getting Smarter

Tuesday 1/3

Introduction to EXCEL, 10-11 a.m., second class on Jan. 5, People Plus, 35 Union St., Brunswick,  799-0757.

Ongoing

Aging Workers Inititiative of Coastal Counties Workforce Inc., holds classes/forums for those over 55; if interested in short-term certificate training in certain fields contact Barry Peaco, 319-8436, Barry.Peaco@goodwillnne.org; FMI, visit seasonedworkforce.com.

ArtWorks, Creative Arts Night, 7-9 p.m. Wednesday, Bath Recreation Center, 4 Sheridan Road, Bath, $8; 443-8360.

ESOL, English as a Second Language classes, free, Mondays and Wednesdays 9 a.m. – noon, Tuesdays and Thursdays 6-9 p.m., basics of English and class trips to learn about Maine, to register or FMI, 729-7323 ext. 1, Merrymeeting Adult Education, 35 Republic Ave., Topsham, Michael Myers, myersm@link75.org.

International Association of Administrative Professionals, Mid Coast Area Chapter meets third Wednesday of the month, September-May, 5:15-7:30 p.m., Mid Coast Pizza and More, Bath, monthly speakers, networking, mcac-iaap.org/index.

Joshua L. Chamberlain Civil War Round Table monthly meeting and speaker, every third Thursday, free, open to public, 7 p.m., Curtis Memorial Library, 23 Pleasant St., Brunswick, information, Dan Cunningham 729-9520, or Jay Stencil 721-0235.

Merrymeeting Regional Adult Education, various courses available, 35 Republic Ave., Topsham, 729-7323.

Sagadahoc History & Genealogy Room, focusing on communities in Sagadahoc County, Patten Free Library, 33 Summer St., Bath, 443-5141.

Spectrum Generations, Southern Midcoast Community Center, 12 Maine St., Topsham, call or visit for list of classes and events, southernmidcoast@spectrumgenerations.org, 729-0475.

University College at Bath/Brunswick hosts career and academic program information sessions, free, Mid-Coast Center for Higher Education, 9 Park St., Bath, schedule at 442-7736.

Wife of Bath hosts monthly day-long creative writing retreats, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m., $25, Linden Tree Meeting House, Phippsburg Congregational Church UCC, 10 Church Lane, Phippsburg, month-by-month or pre-register, 751-2414, editor@wifeofbath.net, visit wifeofbath.net.

Health & Support

Wednesday 1/4

Learn to Meditate in the New Year, 7-8:30 p.m., Shambhala Meditation Center, 19 Mason St., Brunswick, 799-8255.

Friday 1/6

Loosen Up with Suzanne Neveux, 9-9:45 a.m., class meets Tue., Thu., Fri., People Plus, 35 Union St., Brunswick, call for prices and class information, 729-0757.

Tuesday 1/10

A Matter of Balance coaching program, 8 a.m.-12 p.m., second session Jan. 12, 12-4 p.m., Mid Coast Hospital, Brunswick, 373-6592.

Ongoing

Free Blood Pressure Clinic, Wednesdays 10 a.m. – 12 p.m., walk-in, Mid Coast Hospital Community Resource Room, 123 Medical Center Drive, Brunswick, Jessica Loney RN, 373-6592, jloney@midcoasthealth.com.

12 Step Recovery Program, Wednesdays 6 p.m., food, group meetings, contact Jeff Rogers, jeff4bath@yahoo.com, Compass Point Community Church, 119 Old Bath Road.

Adoption Support Group for adult adoptees, adoptive parents, birth parents and those whose lives are touched by adoption, monthly meetings, Mae’s Cafe, 160 Centre St., Bath, 443-9876.

Care Support Group, Sexual Assault Support Services of Midcoast Maine and Mid Coast Hospital provide an education-based support group for survivors of sexual violence who are pregnant; participants may bring a support person, 373-6500 or 725-2181.

Celebrate Recovery Bath, Tuesday nights, 6:30 p.m. group meeting, 6 p.m. free refreshments, 12-step Christ-centered program to help deal with hurts, habits and hang ups, FMI call Jeff or Darlene, 442-9966, celebraterecovery.com.

Communicate after Stroke Support Group, 1st and 3rd Tuesday, September to May, 1-2 p.m., free, friends/family welcome, Mid Coast Hospital, 1st floor conference room, 81 Medical Center Drive, Brunswick, for information or sign up, call Dimitra Toothaker, 373-6175; Robert Lundstrom, 371-2936; or Doris Armstrong, 725-2618.

De-Stress Your Body, Wednesdays, 9-10:30 a.m., $15 per session; come once or weekly, Spectrum Generations, Southern Midcoast Community Center, 12 Main St., Topsham, 729-0475.

Diabetic Foot Clinic, first Thursday of the month, Jeanne Otis RN, $30/visit, package deals available, call for appointment, 729-0475, Southern Midcoast Community Center.

Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous, Monday 7 p.m., Beth Israel Congregation, 906 Washington St., Bath, 865-4076; Wednesday 7 a.m., UCC Church, 150 Congress St., Bath, 837-8164; Wednesday 7 p.m., Midcoast Presbyterian Church, 84 Main St., Topsham, 729-3861; Saturday 9 a.m., Midcoast Hospital, Brunswick, 865-1916.

Group Sitting Meditation, 9 a.m.-noon Sundays, Shambhala Center, 19 Mason St., Brunswick, 729-7402.

Hooptydoo Hula-Hoop Class, all ages welcome, all hula-hooping levels, Tuesdays 5:30-6:30 p.m., $10/person, Bath Dance Works, 72 Front St., third floor; information, Helen, 808-281-6451 or hooptydoo@gmail.com.

Laughter Yoga Club, reduce stress with playful exercises and yogic breathing, dress as you are, no mats, all ages, every third Monday, 10 a.m., free, Bath Dance Works, 100 Front St., third floor, for information, Amanda, 443-3721 or amanda@meadowdance.org.

Mid Coast Chronic Pain Support Group, open to people with chronic pain, their families and friends, first and third Monday, 6-7:30 p.m. Mid Coast Hospital, Brunswick, 725-7854.

Mid Coast Maine Center for Grief and Loss, hospice volunteers offer grief support programs for children, families and individuals, 45 Baribeau Drive, Brunswick, 729-3602.

Overeaters Anonymous, Brunswick locations: Monday 5:30 p.m., Seventh Day Adventist Church, 333 Main St.; Thursday 7 p.m., St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 27 Pleasant St., contact Quinn, 443-4630; Sunday 9 a.m., MidCoast Hospital, 123 Medical Center Drive, contact Monica, 729-3149; Bath location: Tuesday 12 p.m., United Church of Christ, 150 Congress St.

Self-Healing Empowerment Group, Wednesdays, 9-10:30 a.m., $15, come once or weekly, Spectrum Generations, Southern Midcoast Community Center, 12 Main St., Topsham, 729-0475.

Sexual Assault Support Services of Midcoast Maine, support groups for survivors of sexual violence, includes sexual assault, sexual abuse as a child and sexual harassment, open to nonoffending parents and partners, 725-2181 to schedule a pre-group meeting.

Spectrum Generations, Southern Midcoast Community Center, 12 Maine St., Topsham, call or visit for list of classes and events, southernmidcoast@spectrumgenerations.org, 729-0475.

Survivors of Suicide, support group, first Thursday, 5:30 p.m., Elijah Kellogg Congregational Church, 917 Harpswell Neck Road, Harpswell, 833-6386.

TOPS (Take Off the Pounds Sensibly) Thursday weigh-in 6:10-6:40 p.m., meeting follows, Seventh Day Adventist Church, Maine St., Brunswick, 375-4749.

Weight Watchers, every Monday, noon, McLellan Building, Multipurpose Room, Bowdoin College, Brunswick, 725-3265.

Women’s Circle, for women who want support for a controlling or abusive relationship, free and confidential, hosted by Mid Coast Outreach Office of Family Crisis Services, 721-0199.

Just for Seniors

Ongoing

Bath Area Senior Citizens, bridge club, cribbage, crafts, line dancing, bocce, bingo and more, 45 Floral St., Bath, 443-4937.

Chair Yoga, Shannon Elliott, Tuesdays 10:30 a.m., $10/class or pay what you can, Spectrum Generations, Topsham, FMI and to preregister, 729-0475.

Meals on Wheels, delivery available for homebound seniors and disabled adults, offered by Spectrum Generations, 12 Main St., Topsham, 729-0475.

Money Management Program, help low-income seniors with routine financial matters, Spectrum Generations, 12 Main St., Topsham, 729-0475.

People Plus Community Center, multipurpose multigenerational facility provides recreational, social, informational, educational and personal services to seniors as well as people of all ages, 35 Union St., Brunswick, 729-0757.

The Retired and Senior Volunteer Program seeks volunteers age 55 and over for various opportunities, 396-6521.

Spectrum Generations Coastal Community Center, support groups, lectures, socials, activities, 521 Main St., Damariscotta, for daily schedule, 563-1363 or spectrumgenerations.org.

Spectrum Generations Southern Midcoast Community Center now open for classes, activities, trips, health & wellness, 12 Main St., Topsham, 729-0475, or datwood@spectrumgenerations.org.

Topsham Merry Meeters Senior Citizens, all ages 50 and over welcome, bring a dish to share for potluck meal, noon, Westrum House, Union Park Road, Topsham; 729-7686 or 725-2425; meets third Tuesday except July and August.

Kids and Family

Ongoing

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Bath/Brunswick is accepting applications for “Littles,” girls ages 6-14 that live in single parent homes to participate in “The Big and Little” program, a mentoring program that matches a child with an adult community mentor (Big Sister) in a one-on-one friendship. There are Big Sisters currently waiting to be matched with Littles. Please Contact Aurora Joseph, Match Support Specialist, 729-7736 or community@bbbsbathbrun.org to enroll your daughter.

Brunswick Teen Center at People Plus, an after school and summer drop in program for area youth in grades 6-12, free membership, safe and fun environment with pool, ping pong, snacks, video games, movies, crafts and more, Mon-Thurs. 2:30-5:30 p.m., call for vacation and summer hours, 35 Union St. Brunswick, 721-0754.

Kids’ Classics at Dreamland Theater, film series for children and young teens, second Sunday of the month, October through May, 2 p.m., free, donations suggested, Sagadahoc Preservation Winter Street Center, 880 Washington St., Bath, for schedule, visit sagadahocpreservation.org.

Morning Storytelling, monthly, songs, stories from around the world with Janice O’Rourke, for ages 6 and under, Frontier Cafe, Cinema & Gallery, Fort Andross, 14 Maine St., Brunswick, information, 725-5222 or explorefrontier.com.

The Park introduces The Community Session, last Wednesday of each month, 3-6 p.m., free, skating, biking, lobby games, equipment rental; all ages, but parent must sign waiver for kids under 18, The Park, 26 Summer St., Bath, 443-8900, bathyouthmeetinghouse.com.