Greater Portland

Benefits

Friday 12/7

Markathon 94.3 WCYY, through 6 p.m., to benefit Center for Grieving Children, listeners can pledge and request songs: 792-9299.

Monday 12/10

Meg Perry Remembrance, Hurricane Sandy fundraiser and 5-year anniversary of the Center, 6-10 p.m., Meg Perry Center, 644 Congress St., Portland, 615-9970, $5-$10.

Bulletin Board

Wednesday 12/5

Eggs & Issues: Dr. Kevin Mills, Cyteir Therapeutics Inc. and Maine Cancer Foundation, 7-9 a.m., Holiday Inn by the Bay, 88 Spring St., Portland, register by Nov. 30: 772-2811, members $17, non-members $27. 

Dinner and Awards Night, 6 p.m., 413 Broadway, South Portland, jbogner1@maine.rr.com, $10.

Scarborough Historical Society Meeting, 7:30 p.m., 647 Route 1, Scarborough, thurlow@maine.rr.com.

Thursday 12/6

Sacred Stories of Passion, refugee and immigrant storytelling, 4-6 p.m., South Portland City Hall, rdeangel@maine.rr.com.

Sunday 12/09 

Worcester Wreath Company Convoy, Freeport Flag Ladies, 3:30 p.m., Freeport Fire Station, Main St., Freeport, 865-3414.

Friday 12/14

Freeport Woman’s Club Meeting, 1 p.m., Freeport Community Library, 10 Library Drive, Freeport, 865-1017.

Ongoing

A Time of Peace, every third Tuesday of the month, 12-1 p.m., State Street Church, 159 State St., Portland, 774-6396.

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.

Drum Circle, every third Friday of the month, 6-8 p.m., Museum of African Art and Culture, 13 Brown St., Portland.

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 Street, 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 Donations

Food, Toy, and Coat Drives

Toy Drive, through Dec. 13, Cheverus High School, 267 Ocean Avenue, Portland, 774-6238 ext. 25. 

Angel Tree Program, to benefit Salvation Army, choose an angel to adopt for holidays, gifts must be dropped off by Dec. 7, Bardwell Chiropractic, 40 Forest Falls Drive, Yarmouth, 846-1665.

Firefighters for Kids, toy drive, through Dec. 23, drop off new or gently used toys, Cumberland Fire Department, 366 Tuttle Road, Cumberland, ff4kids@yahoo.com.

Call for Volunteers

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, FMI 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-plus, 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, FMI 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 non-literate 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 home-bound 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, 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, 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 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 12/8 

Bean Supper, 5-6:30 p.m., Brunswick United Methodist Church, Church Road, Brunswick, adults $8, children 6-12 $4, under 5 free, 725-2185.

Thursday 12/13

Pot luck luncheon, 11:30 a.m., Congregational Church, 282 Main St., Cumberland, 829-3419.

Saturday 12/15 

Bean Supper, 5-6 p.m., Peoples United Methodist Church, 310 Broadway, South Portland, $8 each, $17 family. 

Pork Pie Dinner, 5-6:30 p.m., Our Lady of Hope Parish, 492 Ocean Ave., Portland, jkatsiaficas@perkinsthompson.com, adults $8, children 12 and under $4.

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.

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

Fairs, Festivals, Food, & Fun

“A Christmas Carol,” through Dec. 23, times vary, Portland Stage, 25A Forest Ave., Portland, 774-0465, $15-$44.

Sparkle Weekend, Dec. 7-9, sparkle parade, talking Christmas tree, movie marathon, and more, complete schedule: freeportusa.com.

Christmas Show, 9 a.m.- 3 p.m. Dec 7-8, The Purple Turtle, 6 Innkeepers Lane, Falmouth.

Magic of Christmas, Dec. 14-23, The Portland Symphony Orchestra, Merrill Auditorium, 20 Myrtle St., Portland, 842-0800, $31-$61.

Horse and Wagon Rides, Nov. 23-Dec. 23, Fridays 4-8 p.m., Saturdays 2-6 p.m., Sundays 1-5 p.m., Free rides throughout downtown, pick up and drop off every half hour at Monument Square.

“Miracle on 34th Street, the Musical,” Nov. 30-Dec. 16, Fri-Sat 7:30 p.m, Sundays 2:30 p.m., Portland Players, 420 Cottage Road, South Portland, portlandplayers.org, adults $20, seniors $18, students $15.

The Polar Express, Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad rides for the holidays, through Christmas, 842-0800, $20-$40.

Shop Falmouth, Dec. 7-9, various local businesses, for more information: town.falmouth.me.us

Twelve Days of Christmas, Nov. 23-Dec.16, Every weekend during the holiday season downtown Portland merchants host a celebration with free raffles for distinctive local items. Visit portlandmaine.com for a list of participating stores.

Wednesday 12/5

Tree Lighting, 5:30-6:30 p.m., Village Park, Falmouth. 

SWAPmaine Holiday Swap Soiree, 6-9 p.m., to benefit Goodwill Industries of Northern New England, Mariner’s Church Banquet Center, 368 Fore St., Portland, swapmaine@gmail.com, $20. 

Friday 12/7

Art for the Holidays: Gifts that give forever, 5:30-8 p.m., Constellation Gallery, 511 Congress St., Portland, 409-6617. 

Portland Playback: Holidays from Heaven and Hell, 7:30 p.m., CTN5 Studio, 516 Congress St., Portland, portlandplayback.com, $7 suggested.

Mill Creek Tree Lighting, 4:30-7 p.m., Mill Creek Park, South Portland, 773-5629 ext. 432.

Saturday 12/8

Pet Photos with Santa, 12-2 p.m., Veterinary and Rehabilitation Center of Cape Elizabeth, 207 Ocean House Road, Cape Elizabeth, 799-6952.

Photos with Santa, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Children’s Museum & Theatre of Maine, 142 Free St., Portland, $6 per photo, $9 admission to museum.

Holidays in the Heart of Portland, holiday shopping in the arts district, various locations, for more information: portladmaine.com. 

Santa in the Park, 4:30-6:30 p.m., Memorial Park, Scarborough, 730-4154.

Whimsical Holiday Fair, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Maine Military Museum, 50 Peary Terrace, South Portland, anthonynap@myfairpoint.net. 

Sunday 12/9

Advent Candle Light Vespers, 5:30 p.m., First Congregational Church, 301 Cottage Road, South Portland, drideout4319@maine.rr.com. 

Holiday Volksmarch, register 9 a.m.-12 p.m., walk must finish by 3 p.m., Maine Audubon, 20 Gilsland Farm Road, Falmouth, 781-2330 ext. 210.

Rock my soul rockin’ holiday concert, 4 p.m., One Longfellow Square, 181 State St., Portland, 761-1757, advance $15, door $18.

Hanukkah Concert, 3-5 p.m., Congregation Bet Ha’am, 81 Westbrook St., Portland, 772-1959, adult $25, children 3-18 $15, students and seniors $18, children under 2 free.

Monday 12/10

Holiday Concert, 7 p.m., Downeasters Men’s Chorus and Quartets, United Methodist Church, 52 Tuttle Road, Cumberland, elwyatt63@hotmail.com.

Tuesday 12/11

Bells of Christmas, holiday concert, 7 p.m., Ocean View, 18 Blueberry Lane, Falmouth, jdelima@maine.rr.com.

Christmas Winds, holiday music, 7 p.m., Harraseeket Inn Casco, 162 Main St., Freeport, 865-4747.

Holiday Networking Extravaganza, 5-7 p.m., to benefit Women, Work and Community, Peloton Labs, 795 Congress St., Portland, 899-4399.

Thursday 12/13

Merry Madness, 5-10 p.m., shop downtown, reception 5-6 p.m., Portland Regency Hotel and Spa, 20 Milk St., Portland, 772-6828.

Winter Concert and Tree Lighting, 7 p.m., Cheverus High School, 267 Ocean Ave., Portland, 774-6238.

Saturday 12/15 

Fiesta de Navidad, 7 p.m., Centro Latino, 68 Washington St., Portland, 749-8823.

Portland Harbor’s Parade of Lights, 4:30 p.m., Maine State Pier, Portland, 408-7525.

A Seussified Christmas Carol, Dec. 13-23, Children’s Museum & Theatre of Maine, 142 Free St., Portland, 828-1234 ext. 23, $8-$9.

Garden & Outdoors

Saturday 12/8 

Fly Fishing Show, 9 a.m.-7 p.m., Elk’s Lodge, 1945 Congress St., Portland, mainetu.org, adults $5, children $3. 

Eyes on Owls, 10:30 a.m.-4:15 p.m., Gilsland Farm Sanctuary, Falmouth, 781-230 ext. 211, $5-$15.

Sunday 12/9 

Mammals of Maine, 2 p.m., Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, Freeport, 865-4465.

Sunday 12/16

Winter Birds, 2 p.m., Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, Freeport, 865-4465.

Ongoing

Eastern Cemetery history tours, led by Spirits Alive, 10 a.m. Sat., 1:30 p.m. Sun, through Oct. 15, $7 adults, $4 senior, ages 12 and under free, cash only, canceled if rain, Eastern Cemetery, Portland, for tour schedules visit spiritsalive.org

Guided bird walk and exploration of Gilsland Farm, Thursdays, 7 a.m., Gilsland Farm, 20 Gilsland Farm Road, Falmouth, $5 members/$8 non-members, 781-2330.

Getting Smarter

Friday 12/7

Kneading Passion: Cultivating a life with bread, 7 p.m., Merriconeag Waldorf School, 57 Desert Road, Freeport, 865-3900 ext. 105, $10.

Tuesday 12/11 

SCORE workshop: Starting your own business, 6-9 p.m., 100 Middle St., Portland, register: scoremaine.com, $35. 

Wednesday 12/12

Identity theft protection and victim assistance, IRS Workshop, 5:30-7 p.m., Portland Public Library, 5 Monument Square, Portland, 491-1888.

Thursday 12/13

Basic Computer Training II, 10 a.m.-12 p.m., Portland Public Library, 5 Monument Square, Portland, 871-1700 ext. 708.

Friday 12/14

Casco Bay at USM: Towards place-based academic excellence, 11 a.m., Glickman Family Library, Portland, 780-4200.

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.

Health & Support

Holiday Grief Support Meetings, Dec. 7 and 14, 1:30-3 p.m., VNA Home Health Hospice, 50 Foden Road, South Portland, 400-8714.

Thursday 12/6 

Blood Drive, 12-7 p.m., Portland Blood Drive Center, 524 Forest Ave., Portland, 800-733-2767. 

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, free 12-step recovery program for anyone suffering from food obsession, overeating, under-eating or bulimia, foodaddicts.org, 775-2132.

Free diabetes support group, 5:30-6:30 p.m., second Thursday of every month, Martin’s Point Health Education Center, 331 Veranda St., Building 5, Portland, 800-260-6681.

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 Avenue, 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 Tuesday 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, 202 Woodford St.; 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 parents of dyslexics, third Friday of every month, 12 p.m., International Dyslexia Association, Portland Public Library, 5 Monument Square, 767-4059.

Survivors of Suicide Loss support group, 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

Medicare open enrollment, through Dec. 7, Southern Maine Agency on Aging, 396-6590 or 831-6864.

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-plus 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; spending time with residents in long term care facilities; volunteering as a tax aide or at a nonprofit. FMI, Priscilla Greene, 396-6521 or 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 Street, Yarmouth.

Kids & Family

Teen After Hours, Thursdays, Nov. 1-Dec. 6, 7-9 p.m., Portland Public Library, 5 Monument Square, Portland, 871-1700.

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 story time, 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.

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.

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

Mid Coast

Benefits

Glass Jewelry for Sale, to benefit rebuilding Unitarian Universalist Church of Brunswick, through Dec. 30, Starz Studio, 64 Maine St., Brunswick, ichance@bowdoin.edu., $5-$25.

Ongoing

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

Bulletin Board

Food for Fines, through Dec. 8, Patten Free Library will allow patrons to “pay” their overdue fines by bringing in a donation for the Bath Area Food Bank. For each packaged item turned in at the library $1 in fines will be removed from the library account. For more information: 443-8330.

Saturday 12/8

Maine Allcare, Midcoast Chapter Meeting, 10 a.m., Wild Oats Cafe, 149 Main St., Brunswick, 263-4815. 

Sunday 12/9

Antiques Show and Sale, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Bath Middle School, Congress Ave., Bath, 582-5908.

Tuesday 12/11 

Mid-Coast Retired Educators Association, 9 a.m., Highlands, 30 Governor’s Way, Topsham, 666-3922. 

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.

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 Volunteers

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.

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.

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, 373-3646.

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, Dave, 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.

Fairs, Festivals, Food, & Fun

“A Christmas Carol,” 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., Dec. 8, 2 p.m., Dec. 9,  New England Regional Theater Company, 20 Davis St., Brunswick, 798-6966, adults $12, seniors and students $10, children 12 and under $8.

Holidays in Harpswell, Dec. 1-2 and Dec. 8-9, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., various locations along Route 123 and Route 24, 833-6081, HarpswellArtandCraftGuild.com.

Wednesday 12/5

Holiday Gala, 5:30-8 p.m., Winter Street Center, 880 Washington St., Bath, 443-4112, $25. 

Saturday 12/8

Christmas Fair, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Bath Area Senior Citizens, 45 Floral St., Bath, 443-3773.

Sunday 12/9

On Christmas Night, holiday concert, First Parish Church, UCC, Bath Road, Brunswick, 729-7331.

Vespers Service, 2 p.m., East Harpswell Baptist Church, Cundys Harbor Road, East Harpswell, 729-9755.

Tuesday 12/11

“White Christmas,” film, 6:30 p.m., Patten Free Library, 33 Summer St., Bath, 443-5141 ext. 25. 

Wednesday 12/12 

The Festival of Hanaukkah, lunch & learn, 11:15 a.m., Spectrum Generations Coastal Community Center, 521 Main St., Damariscotta, 563-1383, admission $6, seniors $4.

Sunday 12/16

Breakfast Buffet with Santa, 7:30-10 a.m., Knights of Columbus Hall, 807 Middle St., Bath, 443-6015, suggested $7 adults, $3 children under 12.

Garden & Outdoors

Ongoing

Cathance River Educational Alliance, series for adults, CREA Adult Class second 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, second Wednesdays, bring your own lunch followed by speaker and business meeting, call Kathleen 721-1073 or Marie 729-1295 for location and membership info, guests and new members always welcome, FMI www.topshamgardenclub.com.

Getting Smarter

Friday 12/14

Tech meet-up: Choosing a digital camera, 12-1 p.m., Curtis Memorial Library, 23 Pleasant St., Brunswick, 725-5242 ext. 232.

Ongoing

Aging Workers Initiative 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. Wednesdays, 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

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., Mid Coast 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 non-offending 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 home-bound 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 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.

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.