Greater Portland

Benefits

Saturday 4/7

Cabin Fever 15K Dash for Dyslexia, begins and ends at Mast Landing School in Freeport, 6K walk, 8:30 a.m.; Dash at 9 p.m. Benefits Children’s Dyslexia Center, register at www.runinarace.com.

Sunday 4/8 

Tortoise and Hare 5K, 9 a.m., Freeport, benefits nonprofit Freeport Running Boosters in support of Freeport High School Track Team. Register at www.runinarace.com.

Books/Authors

Saturday 3/31

“Voices from The Heart of Home: Maine Poets,” 3 p.m., Portland Public Library, 5 Monument Square.

Poetry in the Library, workshop with Portland poet laureate Gibson Fay-Leblanc, 9 a.m., Merrill Memorial Library, 215 Main St., Yarmouth. Free and open to the public but space is limited, register at the circulation desk.

Wednesday 4/5 

“Open Admissions: What Teaching at Community College Taught Me About Learning,” by Ned Bachus, 7 p.m., Longfellow Books, 1 Monument Way, Portland, http://bit.ly/2ptNyw0.

Ongoing

Literary Lunch, Portland Public Library, 5 Monument Square, noon, last Wednesday of the month.

Maine Charitable Mechanic Association Library, open to members 4-7 p.m. Friday and 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, 519 Congress St., Portland, fiction, nonfiction and Maine books, bestsellers, makers books and magazines.

Many Voices Teen Book Group, 2:30-3:30 p.m., third Saturday, Portland Public Library. Drop-in, see the selection at portlandlibrary.com/highlight/love-bookgroups/.

Peaks Island Book Group, 129 Island Ave., 7-8 p.m. first Tuesday, 766-5540, portlandlibrary.com/highlight/love-bookgroups/.

Portland Public Library Book Group, 5 Monument Square, 5:30-6:30 p.m., third Tuesday,  871-1700, ext. 705, portlandlibrary.com/highlight/love-bookgroups/.

Reading Dog Program, 3-4 p.m., first and third Mondays, Riverton Branch Library, 1600 Forest Ave. Portland; 3:30-5 p.m., first four Tuesdays, Portland Library, 5 Monument Square. For Riverton call 797-2915 or riverton@portlandpubliclibrary.org to register. For main branch call 871-1700, ext. 707 or childrens@portlandpubliclibrary.org.

Riverton Book Group, 1600 Forest Ave., Portland, second Thursday, 6:30-7:30 p.m., 797-2915, portlandlibrary.com/highlight/love-bookgroups/.

Writer’s Group, 2 p.m., first and third Saturdays, South Portland Public Library, 482 Broadway.

Reader’s Circle, 7 p.m., Merrill Memorial Library, 215 Main St., Yarmouth, last Thursday; free and open to the public, registration not required.

Bulletin Board

Free Income Tax Help, 8:30-11:30 a.m. Wednesdays, Freeport Community Services, 53 Depot St., by appointment only, 865-4743, ext. 100.

SailMaine Junior Summer Program in Portland, registration open for ages 5-17, see www.sailmaine.org for details.

Thursday 3/29

New England Craft Brew Summit, 8 a.m.-6 p.m., Holiday Inn by the Bay, 88 Spring St., Portland, www.nebrewsummit.com/schedule.

Saturday 3/31

Yarmouth History Center Fifth Anniversary, 10:30 a.m.- noon, 118 East Elm St., cupcakes, scavenger hunt, Yarmouth trivia contest, history and art exhibits.

Saturday 4/7

SMCC Open House, 9 a.m.-noon, Southern Maine Community College HUB Athletic Center, 119 Fort Road, South Portland.

Ongoing

Tri-Town Penguins Snowmobile Club (Durham, Freeport, Pownal) 7 p.m. last Tuesday through April, Durham Fire Station, 615 Hallowell Road, Durham. New members welcome, Duncan Daly, 865-6188, or Mike Yates, 233-6952.

Portland Winter Farmers Market, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturdays through April, Maine Girls Academy, 631 Stevens Ave.

Scarborough Garden Club, 12:30 p.m. third Thursday, Hillcrest Retirement Center, 108 Hillcrest Ave. New members welcome, www.scarboroughgardenclub.org.

Call for Volunteers

Saturday 3/31 

Red Cross Blood Drive, 9 a.m.-2 p.m., The Episcopal Church of St. Mary, 43 Foreside Road, Falmouth. Drop-in or register at redcrossblood.org, 1-800-RED CROSS.

Portland Wheelers: Pilots and Safeties needed to help provide adapted biking for people with disabilities in Greater Portland. Strong and experienced bikers with four hours to spare every week or two, training provided, 232-7740, info@portlandwheelers.org, www.portlandwheelers.org.

Portland Wheelers: Trike Transporters wanted for daily shifts to help people with disabilities in Greater Portland. Vehicle with a trailer hitch, flexible hours and days needed. Possible stipend/mileage reimbursement, 232-7740, info@portlandwheelers.org, www.portlandwheelers.org.

VNA Home Health Hospice, volunteer training, 1-3 p.m., Wednesdays April 25-May 23, 50 Foden Road, South Portland, call Beth at 400-8852 to register.

Thursday 3/29

“Signs of the Seasons” training for volunteers interested in tracking seasonal changes affecting Maine plants, animals and people, 4-6:30 p.m., Gilsland Farm Audubon Center, Falmouth.

Tuesday 4/3

Red Cross Blood Drive, 2:30-7:30 p.m., Memorial Middle School, 120 Westcott Road, South Portland, drop in or register at redcrossblood.org.

Ongoing

Alzheimer’s Association, Maine Chapter, ongoing volunteer opportunities for caring people who can offer three to four 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. 115.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southern Maine is looking for people who can positively impact children for a few hours each month, 773-5437, somebigs.org.

Cumberland Area Rides and Cumberland Aging in Place need volunteer drivers and companions to help local seniors. Interview, vetting and training required, contact Lisa Crowley at 829-3367, cumberlandrides@gmail.com.

Foster Grandparents and Senior Companions, adults 55 and older wanted to make a difference while earning extra money. Foster Grandparents help in schools, Senior Companions visit adult day programs or homes, 773-0202,  FGP@opportunityalliance.org.

HART Cat Shelter, 302 Range Road, Cumberland. Apply at hartofme.com or 829-4116.

Hospice volunteers wanted to be part of the VNA Home Health Hospice team, bringing comfort to those facing a terminal illness. Contact Beth Simmons at 400-8852 or simmonsb@emhs.org.

Refugee and Immigration Services, a program of Catholic Charities Maine, has an ongoing need for volunteers to assist refugees transitioning to the U.S., 881-8550.

Road To Recovery needs drivers to transport cancer patients to treatment in Cumberland County. Must be 18 or older, with a valid license, reliable vehicle, clean driving record and proof of insurance. Free training, American Cancer Society, 800-227-2345, or cancer.org.

The Opportunity Alliance has openings for foster grandparents and senior companions in Cumberland County. Stipend, mileage reimbursement, 773-0202, fgp@opportunityalliance.org.

Dining Out

Friday 4/6

Friday Lunch Buffet, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., North Yarmouth Congregational Church, 3 Gray Road. Includes haddock chowder, a monthly special, biscuits, beverages and desserts.

Saturday 4/7

Bean Supper, 4:30-6 p.m., N. Pownal UMC, 851 Lawrence Road. Includes hot dogs, brown bread, biscuits, potato salad and spaghetti, adults/$8, kids/$3.

Catered Dinner, 5-6 p.m. First Congregational Church, 161 Black Point Road, Scarborough. Includes lasagna, ziti, bread and salad, take-out available, adults/$12, kids/$8, limited tickets at door, call 883-2342.

Roast Beef Supper, 4-6 p.m., Scarborough Lion’s Den, 273 Gorham Road, all-you-can-eat, take-out available, adults/$10, kids/$5, benefits Scarborough Fire Department.

Ongoing

Free Dinner, 5:30-6:30 p.m. every Thursday, St. Peters Episcopal Church, 678 Washington St., Portland, handicapped accessible, 878-1989.

Health

Thursday 4/5

“Being Mortal,” 1:30 p.m., Hospice of Southern Maine/Cancer Community Center, Frontline documentary and facilitated conversation about better end-of-life experiences.  To register visit www.cancercommunitycenter.org or call 774-2200.

Ongoing

Heart Meditation, hosted by United Methodist communities of HopeGateWay, 6 p.m. Wednesdays, 509 Forest Ave., Portland, 899-2435, newlightportland.org. Free.

Fit to Dance, 5:30-6:30 p.m., Tuesdays and Thursdays, Cancer Community Center, 778 Main St., South Portland, 774-2200. Free.

Mammograms/pap tests available at no cost for women 40-64 through Maine Breast and Cervical Health Program, 874-8942 or 800-350-5180.

OmBody Meditation & Mindfulness for Busy People, 12:10-12:45 p.m. Tuesdays to March 27, Think Tank Co-working, 533 Congress St., Portland, ombodyhealth.com/community-events. Free.

Restorative yoga, drop-in class 9:30-10:45 a.m. Thursdays, Cancer Community Center, 778 Main St., South Portland, 774-2200. Free.

Tai Chi, 1:30-2:30 p.m. Wednesdays, Cancer Community Center, 778 Main St., South Portland, 774-2200. Free.

Just for Kids

Saturday 3/31

Easter Egg Hunt, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Falmouth Congregational Church, 267 Falmouth Road, up to age 12, music, bunnies, games and prizes, rain or shine, bring a basket.

Ongoing

Baby Singalong, 4 p.m. Thursdays and 10 a.m. Fridays & Saturdays; Toddler Storytime, 10 a.m. Mondays; Infant/Toddler Story Time Tuesday 10 and 10:15 a.m. Pre-School Storytime, 10:30 a.m. Mondays and 10 a.m. Thursdays, Falmouth Memorial Library, 5 Lunt Road, 781-2351.

Fun & Games, Falmouth Memorial Library, 5 Lunt Road: Pokemon & More, 3:30-4:15 p.m. Fridays; Magic Matches! 2:30-4:30 p.m. Saturdays; Lego Club, 2:30-3:30 p.m. Saturdays.

Signing with Babies, 10:45 a.m. Mondays, Falmouth Memorial Library, 5 Lunt Road, baby signing by Maine Behavioral Healthcare, 781-2351. Free.

Baby and Me, 10-11 a.m. Wednesdays, Freeport Community Library, 10 Library Dr., social time for infants and caregivers with toys and music. Free and open to the public, 865-3307, www.freeportlibrary.com.

Board Game Café, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. first Saturday, Freeport Community Library, 10 Library Drive, try new and upcoming games.

Crafting Stories, 10-11 a.m. third Thursday, Freeport Community Library, 10 Library Drive, books share a theme, followed by an art project geared to ages 3-5.

Lego Club, Freeport Community Library, 10 Library Drive, 3:30-4:30 p.m. first Wednesday through April. Open play, all Legos provided for children age 5-11, must be accompanied by an adult.

Preschool Story Time, 11-11:30 a.m., Tuesday weekly, except for first Tuesday, Freeport Community Library, 10 Library Drive.

Yoga for Toddlers & Preschoolers, Freeport Community Library, 10 Library Drive, 10:30-11 a.m. first Tuesday.

Family Story Play Yoga, 11-11:45 a.m., third Saturday, Portland Public Library, 5 Monument Square.

Homeschoolers Book Club, ages 9-12, 10:30-11:30 a.m., third Thursday October-June, Portland Public Library, 5 Monument Square.

Smart Girls Read, ages 9-12, 2:30-3:30 p.m. first Saturday through June, Portland Public Library, 5 Monument Square.

Songs & Stories en Français, 10:30-11 a.m. Mondays, Portland Public Library, 5 Monument Square. Weekly storytime in French.

Teen After Hours, 6-8 p.m., first Friday, Portland Public Library, 5 Monument Square, video games on Wii and PlayStation 4, movies, board & card games,  pizza, music.

Baby Builders, 10:30 a.m., Tuesdays, South Portland Public Library, 482 Broadway. Duplos, free play and socializing for newborns to age 4.

Flash Story Time, 2-4 p.m. Sunday, stories and songs, South Portland Memorial Branch, 155 Westcott Road.

Letter Zoo, stories and songs for ages 3-5, Fridays at 10:30 a.m., South Portland Public Library, 482 Broadway.

Baby Bounces and Books, 10:15-10:35 a.m., Fridays; Tales and Tunes, preschool story hour 10:15-11 a.m. and 2-2:45 p.m. Thursdays; Tales for Twos, 11-11:30 a.m. Fridays, Merrill Memorial Library, 215 Main St., Yarmouth.

Tail Waggin’ Tales, reading program with therapy dogs every Tuesday at Merrill Memorial Library, 215 Main St., Yarmouth. Email mbatson@yarmouthlibrary.org to sign up.

Support

Ongoing

Aging in Place Friendly Visitor program for those 60+ in Cumberland offers weekly visits by a trained volunteer who will provide companionship based on mutual interests. To apply or refer someone: AIP@cumberlandmaine.com, 245-8033.

Alzheimer’s Support Group, 6-7 p.m., second Wednesday, Sedgewood Commons 22 Northbrook Drive, Falmouth, Patricia.Burke@genesishcc.com.

Brain Aneurysm Support Group, 6-7:30 p.m., last Thursday, Room 9, Dana Health Education Center at Maine Medical Center, 22 Bramhall St. Portland, http://kat-walk.org/support.html.

Cancer Community Center, wellness classes, complementary therapies, nutritional counseling, CancerCommunityCenter.org,  774-2200.

Cancer Support Group, 5:30-6:30 p.m., Wednesdays, Cancer Community Center, 778 Main St., South Portland, 774-2200. For adults affected by cancer, their families and friends.

Center for Autism and Related Disorders Portland, a support group for caregivers of those with autism spectrum disorder and other developmental disabilities, 6 p.m., second Tuesday of the month, Easter Seals Maine, 25 Presumpscot St., Portland. For more, contact Lindsay Payeur at 573-7424.

CODA: Co-Dependents Anonymous meets every Friday 12:30-1:30 p.m., St. Dominic’s Church, Mellen Street, Portland, call Elizabeth at 799-4599.

Compassus Hospice Grief Support Group, third Wednesday, 3 p.m., Compassus, 23 Spring St., Suite C, Scarborough, 761-6967, compassushealthcare. com.

Families of people with dementia support group 4-5 p.m. second and fourth Tuesdays, St. Joseph’s Rehab and Residence, 1133 Washington Ave., Portland.

Family Crisis Services, local domestic violence resource center serving Cumberland County with legal help, shelter and support. For information about support groups held in Brunswick, Bridgton or Portland call 721-0199; 24-hour hotline 800-537-6066.

Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous, free 12-step program. Tuesday, 9 a.m., St. Maximilian Church, 167 Black Point Road, Scarborough, Kimberly, 899-6588; Wednesday, 7 p.m., St. Nicholas Episcopal Church, 350 Route 1, Scarborough, Roberta, 839-6452; Thursday, 9 a.m., First Parish Congregational UCC, 40 Main St., Freeport, Sandi, 838-8991. Saturday, 8 a.m., Larrabee Village Admin. Bldg., 30 Liza Harmon Drive, Westbrook, Kimberly, 899-6588. Visit foodaddicts.org or call contact to confirm meeting.

Free Ride Service by Living Well in North Yarmouth Committee, call Ginny Vandyke at 829-3848.

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 Group/Attitudinal Healing, 5-7 p.m. Wednesdays, Maine Medical Center, Dana Center classroom #1;  5:30-7:30 p.m., Thursdays, Portland Recovery Community Center, 468 Forest Ave. Portland, contact Liz at 727-420-2964.

Kids First, workshops and support groups for families going through divorce, Kids First Center, 222 St. John. St., Suite 101, Portland, 761-2709, info@kidsfirstcenter.org, kidsfirstcenter.org.

LaLeche League, every Wednesday, 9 a.m., Woodfords Congregational Church, 202 Woodford St., Portland, 767-0920.

Leukemia Society Family Support group, third Tuesday, 5:30-7 p.m., 778 Maine St., South Portland, 774-2200.

Living with Cancer, 10-11:30 a.m., fourth Thursday, Cancer Community Center, 778 Main St., South Portland, for patients and families coping with any kind of cancer at any point in their journey.

Look Good … Feel Better with the American Cancer Society, Cancer Community Center, 778 Main St., South Portland, help with wigs, makeup, self-esteem, cancercommunitycenter.org. Free.

Maine Buddy Program provides one-to-one, peer support from trained volunteers for adults dealing with cancer, CancerCommunityCenter.org,  774-2200.

Mended Hearts Cardiac Support Group, Maine Medical Center Learning Resource Center, 100 West Campus Drive, Scarborough. Survivors available from diagnosis, during and after hospital stays; visits can be in person, by phone or email, 523-0883 or robynshaw13@icloud.com.

Mental Illness Family Support Group, 6:30-8 p.m., second, third and fourth Mondays of the month, Dana Center, 22 Bramhall St., classroom #2, Portland. NAMI Portland. FMI call Mike, 703-966-8875.

Mornings with Friends, for senior socialization and entertainment, 10-11:30 a.m. third Wednesday. Location alternates between Congregational Church of Cumberland at 282 Main St. and the United Methodist Church at 52 Tuttle Road, 829-3318 or sgold@cumberlandmaine.com.

Multiple Sclerosis Support Group, 10 a.m. third Wednesday, Handy’s, 367 Main St., Yarmouth, drop-in, zenhead@gmail.com.

Overeaters Anonymous/Portland, 7 p.m. Sundays, Brighton Medical Center, 335 Brighton Ave.; 6 p.m. Tuesdays and Fridays, Woodfords Congregational Church, 202 Woodford St.; 9:30 and 10 a.m. Saturdays, Wishcamper Center at USM, 44 Bedford St., oamaine.org.

PFLAG Support Group, 7-8:30 p.m. second Tuesday, Equality Community Center, 511 Congress St., Portland, (new location), 831-3015, pflagportlandmaine.org.

South Portland Food Cupboard, 130 Thadeus St. ,8:30-11:30 a.m., Thursday for residents of South Portland, Scarborough, Cape Elizabeth, and surrounding communities, 874-0379, southportlandfoodcupboard.org.

Speaking Up for Us of Maine, Portland chapter of statewide, self-advocacy organization for those with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities, 10:30 a.m.-noon, second & fourth Tuesday, Port Credit Union, 285 Forest Ave., Portland, sufumaine.org.

Tea and Talk, 9:30-11 a.m., residents meet second Thursday of the month at Cumberland Town Hall, 290 Tuttle Road, 829-2208 or cstennett@cumberlandmaine.com.

Tender Living Care, for families facing serious illness, every Monday at The Center for Grieving Children, 555 Forest Ave., Portland, 775-5216 or cgc@cgcmaine.org.

The Center for Grieving Children, free bereavement peer support groups for children ages 3-18, their parents and caregivers, young adults, bereaved parents and widow/widowers/partners, 555 Forest Ave., Portland, 775-5216, cgc@cgcmaine.org.

Together With Alzheimer’s, drop-in support group for caregivers of those with Alzheimer’s/dementia, 7 p.m. every Wednesday, Sacred Heart Parish Center, Conference Room, 232 Main St., Yarmouth, ezine@catherinegentile.com.

TOPS Club, weight-loss support group chapter, 5:15 p.m. Thursday weigh-in and meeting, Maine Medical Center, Dana Center, 22 Bramhall St., Portland, 662-2776.

Unemployed Professional Group, 8:30 a.m.-noon Tuesdays, Greater Portland Career Center, 151 Jetport Blvd. Open to the public, registration not required.

Young Widows and Widowers Group open to people age 50 or younger meets twice a month Friday evenings at The Center for Grieving Children, Portland. Call Sara Asch at 775-5216 to register.

Yarmouth Cares About Neighbors, connects resources such as clothing, heating assistance, food and rides to people in need, https://ycan.info/.

Workshops/Walks/Talks

“Learn What it Takes to Farm in Maine,” 6-9 p.m. five Tuesdays beginning April 3, University of Maine Regional Learning Center, 75 Clearwater Drive, Falmouth, $50 or BOGO, http://bit.ly/2tPjwYp.

Wednesday 3/28

“Citizen Science: A Revolution in Scientific Research,” 5:30-7:30 p.m., Portland Public Library, 5 Monument Square. Free.

Thursday 3/29

Job Corps information session for unemployed youth 18-24 interested in CDL/Heavy Truck Driving License. Free, includes job placement. RSVP to Sarah MacAlister at the Portland Job Corps Office, https://pivot.jobcorps.gov/, 631-1453. 

Forecast New England | Focus Maine MBTA Cumberland County Meeting, 6:45 p.m., Portland Marriott, South Portland, senior economist for the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston will discuss the economic outlook for Maine, the region and the construction and transportation industries.

“Security, Reliability & Integration–Analyzing the Regional Energy Grid,” 7:30-10 a.m., hosted by E2Tech at Congregation Bet Ha’am, 81 Westbrook St., South Portland, register at http://e2tech.org/event-2856698.

Tuesday, 4/3

“Follow the Flow: Where Does Water Go?” 6-7:30 p.m. hosted by The Falmouth Conservation Commission, free workshop about reducing runoff and pollution from residential properties, Falmouth Memorial Library, 5 Lunt Road.

Wednesday 4/4

“Grow Your Own Organic Garden,” 6-9 p.m., hosted by MOFGA at adult education locations statewide, including Cumberland and Scarborough, http://mofga.org/Events/GrowYourOwnOrganicGarden.

Friday 4/6

Speaker Sisterhood Speakeasy, 6-9 p.m., eighteen twenty wines, 219 Anderson St., Portland, empowers women to speak up through games, tips and stories, includes book-signing and wine tasting, free, register at https://bit.ly/2HUxRol.

Ongoing

Durham Paint Night, 6:30 p.m. monthly, Amvets Ladies Auxiliary, 1049 Royalsborough Road. Details/register through Facebook or contact Erica Burke, 353-3272.

Board Game Café, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., first Saturday of the month, Freeport Community Library, 10 Library Dr. with a different selection of games each month. Open to the public.

Maine Genealogical Society, Greater Portland Chapter, 12:30 p.m. first Saturday, First Congregational Church, 301 Cottage Road, South Portland. Free, guests welcome, 409-6205.

Computer Tutoring sessions, Portland Public Library, Tuesdays and Fridays, 5 Monument Square, call 871-1700, ext. 708 to register for a half-hour session.

Essentials of College Planning for Adults, 10 a.m. Tuesdays by appointment, Greater Portland Career Center, 151 Jetport Blvd., Portland. Register with Randi Paine at 800-281-3703.

Maine Job Seekers: free classes about employment, services and programs, Maine Department of Labor, 151 Jetport Blvd., Portland, mainecareercenter.com, 822-3300.

Scarborough Kiwanis, noon-1 p.m., every Friday, The Egg & I, 183 US Route One, Scarborough, breakfast and featured speaker, public welcome.

Artsy Afternoon, free crafting program for adults, 1-3 p.m. last Saturday, South Portland Public Library, 482 Broadway, preregistration required.

Socrates Cafe, 6:30 p.m. fourth Thursdays, South Portland Public Library, 482 Broadway. Ordinary people discuss “big questions.”

Spanish Group, 10 a.m. Wednesdays, South Portland Public Library, 482 Broadway, all levels welcome.

Technology Tutoring, Portland Public Library, 5 Monument Square, one-on-one computer help in reserved half hour sessions 2-4 p.m. Tuesdays; 4:30-6 p.m. Wednesdays; 12:30-2 p.m. Fridays.

Mid-Coast

Benefits

Bowl For Kids’ Sake, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. April 6, The Bowling Bowl, Brunswick; April 7, Yankee Lanes, Brunswick, to benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters. Includes  DJ, special guest MC’s, 50/50, door prizes and giveaways. To register visit https://bit.ly/2IJY8XF.

Thursday 4/5

Music in April, 5-9 p.m., Brunswick Recreation Center, 35 Union St., includes live music, dinner by over 20 local restaurants, silent and live auction, tickets $50 through 729-0757.

Saturday 4/7

Mud Boots & Black Tie Gala, $50 for choice of dinner with a gala host or at Chocolate Church Arts Annex, Bath, www.chocolatechurcharts.org.

Books/Authors

Saturday 3/31

Tuesday Mayhem Society, 1 p.m., Topsham Public Library, afternoon of murder, madness and strange fiction with authors Peter N. Dudar, Morgan Sylvia, David Price, April Hawks and Lynda Styles. Free and open to the public.

Ongoing

Book Look, 11 a.m. first Tuesday through May, The Highlands, 30 Governor’s Way, Topsham. Fiction and nonfiction chosen by participants. All welcome, contact Susan at Topsham Library, email director@topshamlibrary.org.

Mystery Readers Roundtable,  3 p.m., second Tuesday through May, fans of the mystery genre gather over hot drinks and share their favorite crime novels at Topsham Public Library. For more, contact Linda at 725-1727, tplinfo@topshamlibrary.org.

Rare Reads, 6 p.m., third Tuesday through May, discuss unusual and interesting literature, Topsham Public Library, 25 Foreside Road. Can’t make it? Join the discussion on topshamlibrary.org/rare-reads/. Registration not required.

Reading Between the Panels, 6 p.m., fourth Tuesday through May, Topsham Public Library, 25 Foreside Road, graphic novel discussion, call Dale at 725-1727.

Tea With Harriet, monthly tea and conversation about author Harriet Beecher Stowe, 1-2:30 p.m., third Thursday, 63 Federal St., Brunswick.

Great Books, 10 a.m.-noon, fourth Saturday, The Great Books Foundation Short Story Omnibus purchased from Great Books Foundation. Topsham Public Library, 25 Foreside Road, Topsham, 725-1727, topshamlibrary.org.

Bulletin Board

AARP Tax Preparation, through April 12, free for low-to-moderate income. Call 725-1727 for Southern Maine locations and an appointment.

Saturday 3/31

Midcoast Maine Ca$h Free Tax Preparation, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Kanbar Hall, 101 Bowdoin College, Brunswick.

Ongoing

Senior Bingo, 6:30 p.m., second and fourth Wednesday, Bath Area Senior Center, 45 Floral St., age 16+.

Community Spay-Neuter Clinic of Topsham, free neuter and rabies shots for feral, stray and barn cats. Free transportation and trapping available in parts of Androscoggin, Kennebec, Cumberland, Sagadahoc, Lincoln & Oxford counties, 721-8395.

Sip & Stitch, knitting and crocheting, 10 a.m.-noon first and third Saturdays, Topsham Public Library, 25 Foreside Road, Topsham, 725-1727.

American Cancer Society, volunteers needed in the Topsham office, Road To Recovery program, Look Good Feel Better program, Relay For Life events and Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walks, see cancer.org/involved/volunteer.html, or contact Danielle Blais at Danielle.blais@cancer.org or 373-3700, ext. 3720.

Androscoggin Home Care & Hospice, Brunswick area, training provided, 777-7740, AHCH.org.

ArtVan Program to help with art therapy programming with children and teens, promotional support and fundraising efforts. Contact 650-1608 or visit artvanprogram.org.

Big Brothers Big Sisters, 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, volunteers for the art gallery and more, 804 Washington St., Bath, 442-8455.

Friends of Merrymeeting Bay seeks volunteers interested in preserving the bay to assist with speaker series, assemble mailings and more, 666-1118, fomb.org.

Habitat for Humanity ReStore, needed donations include appliances, complete kitchen cabinet sets, and furniture in good condition, call 504-9341, drop off at 126 Main St., Topsham, Tuesday- Friday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and Saturdays 10 a.m.- 3 p.m.

Mid Coast Hospital, looking for people to work in the cafe, gift shop, or greeting patients, 123 Medical Center Drive, Brunswick, 373-6015.

People Plus Center, ongoing opportunities, 35 Union St., Brunswick, 729-0757.

Red Cross Blood Drives, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS to make an appointment.

Refugee and Immigration Services, a program of Catholic Charities Maine, has ongoing needs for committed residents who will help new Mainers find employment. FMI, Paul Mullaney, pmullaney@ccmaine.org.

Sexual Assault Support Services of Mid Coast Maine will train volunteers to provide support and information to callers on 24-hour hotline, 725-2181, 594-8580 or 338-4622, clientservices@sassmm.org.

SEARCH Program of Greater Bath, assist seniors by providing companionship, transportation, assistance with errands, 837-8810, cszalay@ccmaine.org.

Contradance, second Saturdays, Topsham Grange, 47 Pleasant St. Family dance 6-7 p.m., $3, $12/family. Finger food potluck, 7 p.m.; lesson, 7:30 p.m.; main dance, 8 p.m. $10/$7. http://contradancetopsham.wordpress.com.

Dining Out

Friday 4/6

Spaghetti Dinner, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Boy Scout Troop 648 at St. Charles Parish Hal, McKeen Street, Brunswick. Includes meatballs, salads, bread. Adults/$8, kids/$6, family/$23, take-out available.

Ongoing

Lunch with Friends: noon, Tuesdays, Bailey Island Union Church, 2141 Harpswell Islands Road; Thursdays, Merriconeag Grange Hall, 529 Harpswell Neck Road, Harpswell; Fridays, Orr’s Island Schoolhouse, 1579 Harpswell Islands Road, Orr’s Island. Free.

Health

Ongoing

American Red Cross Disaster Action Team provides free, basic classes in delivering assistance in emergency situations, weekday evenings, 16 Community Way, Topsham, 729-6779, 563-3299, MidCoastRedCross.net.

Blood pressure clinic, Wednesdays 10 a.m.-noon, free, walk-ins welcome, Mid Coast Hospital Community Resource Room, 123 Medical Center Drive, Brunswick, Jessica Loney R.N., 373-6592, jloney@midcoasthealth.com.

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

Diabetic foot clinic, first Thursday of the month, Jeanne Otis R.N., $30/visit, package deals available. Call for appointment, 729-0475, Southern Midcoast Community Center.

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

Maine Laughter Yoga Club, reduce stress with playful exercises and yogic breathing, 5:30-6:30 p.m. first Fridays, Fort Andross, 14 Maine St., Suite 314, Brunswick, 443-3721.

Tibetan Buddhist Philosophy and Meditation, 5:30 p.m. every Monday, First Parish Church, 9 Cleaveland St., Brunswick. Explore meditation in the Buddhist tradition, suitable for both beginners and advanced students. Suggested donation $10, but all welcome.

TOPS (Take Off the Pounds Sensibly), weight loss support group, 6:10 p.m. weigh-in and meeting, Thursdays, Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 330 Maine St., Brunswick, 729-6400.

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

Just for Kids

Ongoing

Baby & Me, 10 a.m. Thursdays for 15-20 minutes with songs, action rhymes, and board books for birth to 23 months, Topsham Public Library, 25 Foreside Road, Topsham, 725-1727, topshamlibrary.org.

Music & Rhyme Time for Twos, 10:30 a.m. Thursdays for 20-30 minutes with music, dance and action rhymes, for 2-year-olds and their grown-ups, Topsham Public Library, 25 Foreside Road, Topsham, 725-1727, topshamlibrary.org.

Preschool Storytime, 10 a.m. Wednesdays for 30-45 minutes, with songs, dance, instruments, action rhymes for ages 3-5, Topsham Public Library, 25 Foreside Road, Topsham, 725-1727, topshamlibrary.org.

Third Saturday Teen Crafting, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., drop in at Topsham Public Library, 25 Foreside Road, ages 11-18 only.

Tween Reads, 5 p.m. first Wednesday through May, Topsham Public Library, 25 Foreside Road, grades 6-8, registration required, 725,1727.

Young Critics, 5 p.m. third Thursdays, October-May, Topsham Public Library, 25 Foreside Road, grades 4 & 5, register at 725-1727.

Support

Ongoing 

Adult Grief Support Groups: 6:30-8 p.m., 2nd and 4th Tuesdays,
CHANS Home Health & Hospice, 45 Baribeau Dr., Brunswick; 2-3 p.m. 1st and 3rd Wednesdays, The Highlands, Cadigan Lodge, 54 Governors Way, Topsham. To register, call Andy Sokoloff at 721-1357.

All Addictions Anonymous Big Book Step Study group, 5:30-7 p.m., Mondays, Brunswick Adventist Church, 333 Maine St. Members of any 12-step group welcome, 400-6320.

Dementia Caregivers Education Series, 4-5 p.m., third Thursday, Mid Coast Senior Health Center, 58 Baribeau Dr.

Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous, Mondays, 9 a.m., St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 27 Pleasant St., Brunswick, 837-3581; Wednesdays, 7 p.m., Topsham Medical Building, 4 Horton Place, 528-5550; Fridays, 6 p.m., Bath Police Dept., 250 Water St., Bath 442-7557; Saturdays, 9 a.m., Mid Coast Hospital (Medical Offices Building) 121 Medical Center Drive, 865-9160.

Grief Support Group, for survivors of those who have died from substance abuse, first and third Thursdays, 3:30-5 p.m., CHANS Home Health Care and Hospice, 45 Baribeau Drive, Brunswick, 721-1357.

H.O.P.E. (Healing of Persons Exceptional) wellness support group, 6:30-8:30 p.m., St. Matthew Episcopal Church, 20 Union St., Hallowell, second and fourth Wednesdays,  890-3673.

Mid Coast Senior Health Center, for caregivers of those with memory loss, 4-5 p.m., third Thursday, 58 Baribeau Dr., Brunswick.

MidCoast Chronic Pain Support Group, open to people with chronic pain, their families and friends, first and third Mondays, 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.

Moving On discussion group, 10 a.m. second and fourth Tuesdays, Topsham Public Library, 25 Foreside Road, for surviving spouses of retirement age on how to build a new life, 725-1727, topshamlibrary.org.

Multiple Sclerosis Society, coffee and conversation group, first Tuesday 10:30 a.m.-noon, Handy’s Market, 367 Main St., Yarmouth, cafandconyar@gmail.com.

Overeaters Anonymous, Tuesdays, noon, St. Mary’s Church, 144 Lincoln Street, Bath, 729 3149; Thursdays, 7 p.m., St.Paul’s Episcopal Church, 27 Pleasant St., Brunswick, 386 1740.

Pet Loss Support Group, third Thursday, 3:30-5 p.m., CHANS Home Health & Hospice, 45 Baribeau Dr., Brunswick. Open to anyone grieving the terminal illness or death of a companion animal. To register, call Andy Sokoloff at 721-1357.

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.

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

TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) weigh-in 6-6:40 p.m. every Thursday, Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 330 Maine St., Brunswick, 729-6400.

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.

Veteran to Veteran support group with Operation Resilient Hope, 6-8 p.m., Thursdays, 2 Main St., Topsham, 319-5996, OperationResilientHope.org.

WIC Program, free nutritional service for income-eligible families. Provides food, formula, breastfeeding support, nutrition education and referrals for pregnant, breastfeeding or postpartum women and children up to age 5. Mid-Coast residents can call Maine Community Action at 800-221-2221 and ask for WIC.

Women with Cancer Support Group is open to women diagnosed with any type of cancer at any age, meets third Tuesdays, 3 p.m., board room of MidCoast Hospital, 123 Medical Center Drive, Brunswick, 373-6540.

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

Workshops/Walks/Talks

AARP Tax Aid, drop-in help with income tax returns through April 17 at Patten Free Library (443-5141), Bath Area Senior Center (443-4937), and Topsham Public Library 725-1727). Appointment needed at Curtis Memorial Library, Brunswick (725-5242, ext. 510). Free for low-to-moderate income.

Saturday 3/31

“Forward,” TEDxBowdoinCollege, 1-3:30 p.m., Visual Arts Center, Kresge Auditorium, “Ideas Worth Spreading,” by faculty, students, others. Free eTicket at  https://goo.gl/forms/anaXH7OtR80TQE482.

Monday 4/2

“Years of Living Dangerously,” 6:30 p.m., local chapter of Citizens’ Climate Lobby presents segment from the National Geographic film series followed by discussion, Curtis Memorial Library, Brunswick.

Wednesday 4/4

“Grow Your Own Organic Garden,” 6-9 p.m., hosted by MOFGA at locations statewide, including Bath and Topsham, http://mofga.org/Events/GrowYourOwnOrganicGarden/.

Thursday 4/5

“Create a Wildlife Paradise in Your Yard,” 7 p.m., Orr’s Island Library, 1699 Harpswell Islands Road.

Sunday 4/8

“Harriet Beecher Stowe: The Little Lady Who Started That Great War, 2 p.m., Pejepscot Genealogical Society at Curtis Memorial Library, Brunswick, with Stowe House educator Cathi Belcher of Bowdoin College.

Tuesday 4/10

“In Search of the Merrymeeting Bay Pioneers,” 6:30 p.m., hosted by Topsham Historical Society at Topsham Public Library, 25 Foreside Road. Dr. Bruce Bourque of the Maine State Museum will provide a historical sketch.

Wednesday 4/11

“Everything About Dahlias,” noon, hosted by Topsham Garden Club at Topsham Public Library, ?25 Foreside Road, followed by business meeting, refreshments and socializing, open to the public.

Ongoing

AARP Coffee & Conversation, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. third Wednesday, New Beet Market, 25 Burbank Ave., Brunswick, all welcome.

Brunswick Toastmasters Club, 6:30-8 p.m. first & third Tuesdays, 8 Venture Ave., visitors welcome, 241-2294, https://2156.toastmastersclubs.org.

Cathance River Education Alliance Ecology Center Open House, Topsham, noon to 2 p.m. each Sunday. For directions see creamaine.org or email crea@creamaine.org.

Computer Boot Camp, by appointment daily 8:30-9:30 a.m., 3:30-4:30 p.m., Southern Midcoast CareerCenter, 275 Bath Road, Brunswick, mainecareercenter.com, 621-5009.

First Light Camera Club, meets monthly 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the Topsham Medical Building, 4 Horton Place, fee charged, www.firstlightcc.com, info@firstlightcc.com, 729-6607.

Friends of Merrymeeting Bay Speaker Series, 7 p.m., 2nd Wednesday until May, Curtis Memorial Library, 23 Pleasant St., Brunswick, free and open to the public, www.fomb.org.

Midcoast Senior College, current events forum, noon, Thursdays, Curtis Memorial Library, 23 Pleasant St., Brunswick, 725-4900.

New Ventures Maine, programs for career, business and financial education. Classes and workshops at no charge, in-person and online options. 386-1664, newventuresmaine.org.

Rain or Shine Club, free weekly family-friendly walks Thursdays at 10 a.m., guided by Royal River Conservation Trust, 215-8315.

Smart investing@your library workshops, Curtis Memorial Library, 23 Pleasant St., Brunswick; list at curtismoney.com.

Southern Midcoast CareerCenter, 275 Bath Road, Brunswick, career counseling, classes, support, mainecareercenter.com, 373-4000.

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