Greater Portland

Benefits

Toy Drive Drop Off Locations:

To Benefit Youth Alternatives, Ingraham of Maine, drop off new, unwrapped toys to Cape Elizabeth Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage office, 295 Ocean House Rd., Cape Elizabeth now through Dec. 8, Roni Barbera, 799-5000.

To Benefit Toys for Tots, drop off new, wrapped or unwrapped toys to Weichert, Realtors – Waterglen Group, 100 Commercial St., Portland, Diane Churchill, 773-2425; or to Jim O’Clair, Edward Jones financial advisor, 94 Auburn St. Suite 209, Portland, Jim, 797-4104.

Friday 11/27

46th Annual Rotary Christmas Tree Sale, to benefit community charitable causes, Nov. 27-29; Dec. 5-6; Dec. 12-13; Mill Creek Park, South Portland, hosted by The South Portland- Cape Elizabeth Rotary Club, Adrienne Murphy, 243-3292. 

Alumni and Friends Sports Fundraiser Dance, to benefit DHS, PHS Athletics, with music by Color Blind, 8-12 p.m., $15, 21+, Italian Heritage Center, 40 Western Ave., Portland, tickets, Lisa Sprague, 797-6803, Jeri Levesque, 871-0090.

Thursday 12/3

Holiday Wreath Display and Silent Auction, to benefit Maine Alzheimer’s Association, 5-7 p.m., Bay Square at Yarmouth, 27 Forest Falls Dr., Yarmouth, Mary Willson, 846-0044.

Friday 12/4

Goodwill’s “Art for Everyone:” A Collection of Donated Art,” bi-annual art sale fundraiser, 5-8 p.m., free admission, 353 Cumberland Ave., Portland, 774-6323. 

“‘Tis the Gift,” USM music scholarship benefit gala, with food, auctions and holiday music by USM music students, 5:30-10 p.m., $90, registration required, Abromson Community Center, USM Portland, 780-5003.

Saturday 12/5

Art and Hand-stitched Items Raffle, to benefit Maine Parkinson Society, raffle tickets can be purchased now through Dec. 5, winner drawn on Dec. 12, to view items, www.maineparkinsonsociety.org, click on “November Raffle,” 1-800-832-4116.

Giving Tree of Hats and Mittens, bring new unwrapped hats, mittens of all sizes to Yarmouth tree lighting on Dec. 5 at 5 p.m.; after Dec. 5, drop off donations to Yarmouth Town Hall, Merrill Memorial Library, or Yarmouth Community Services, sponsored by Yarmouth Fire-Rescue, Margaret Downing, 846-9295.

Santa Steamed Clam Supper, to benefit Santa Fund of the Maine Clammer’s Association, bring new unwrapped toy, 4-7 p.m., $12 adult/ $6 child, ages 5 and under free, Freeport Masonic Lodge, Mallet Dr., Freeport, Adam, 615-5640.

Sunday 12/6

Jingle Bell Run and Walk for Arthritis, 5K timed race or leisure walk, 8 a.m. registration, 9 a.m. race, meet at Freeport Middle School gym, 19 Kendall Ln, Freeport, register, www.freeportjbr.kintera.org, 1-800-639-2113.

Bulletin Board

Friday 11/27

Home For The Holidays Craft Show, by the Society of Southern Maine Craftsmen, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Friday; 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Saturday, Scarborough High School, 20 Gorham Rd., Scarborough, Stone Soup Artisans,283-4715.

Saturday 11/28

Casco Bay Lines Cruise with Santa, with music, performances, snacks, 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., $8 adult/ $4 children, depart from Ferry Terminal, 56 Commercial St., Portland, Caitlin Gildart, 774-7871 ext. 105, www.cascobaylines.com. 

Len Libby Candies Annual Candy Cane Event, make handmade candy canes, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., free, Len Libby Candies, 419 U.S. Route 1, Scarborough, 883-4897, www.lenlibby.com.

Sunday 11/29

“Artsy Crafts on 88,” a juried artisan holiday show, with photography, painting, jewelry and more, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m., 267 Foreside Road, Falmouth, ritamae@maine.rr.com.

DIY Gift-Making Open House, “Art Night Out” inspired kits, $10-$25, 2-5 p.m. Sundays, Nov. 29, Dec. 13, Dec. 20, Artascope Studios, 352 Cottage Rd., South Portland, Suzanne, 799-5154.

New Gloucester Tree Lighting, with Gray-NG High School chorus, Town Library and New Gloucester History Barn open house, 4 p.m., New Gloucester Town Hall, U.S. Route 231, New Gloucester. 

Friday 12/4

6th Annual “Ember’s Glow Holiday Show,” Craft and Functional Art, accessories, 6-9 p.m. Friday opening reception; 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. Saturday 12-4 p.m. Sunday; Ember Grove, 247 Congress St., Portland, 761-0408. 

A Gift of Christmas Christmas Fair, 12-5 p.m. Friday, with lobster lunch; 8:30-11 a.m. Saturday pictures and donuts with Santa, $10; 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. fair; 5 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. seatings for Italian dinner $9 adults/$6 children, Holy Cross School, 436 Broadway, South Portland, 799-6661. 

Holly Jolly Fair, cake party, 6-8 p.m. Friday; fair, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Saturday, First Parish Congregational Church, 40 Main St., Freeport, Andrea Conner, 865-3573.

Saturday 12/5

Alternative Gift Market and Fair Trade Crafts Sale, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., free admission, Southern Maine Community College, Campus Center, 2 Fort Road, South Portland, Heather Bennett, 741-5663.  

Annual Christmas Fair, with silent auction, lobster stew lunch, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m., Sacred Heart Church, 326 Main St., Yarmouth, Cathy Ferretti, 846-1039.

Annual Yarmouth Town Carol Sing and Tree Lighting, 5 p.m., Town Hall Memorial Green, Main St., Yarmouth, Margaret Downing, 846-9295.

Christmas Craft Fair, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m., West Scarborough United Methodist Church, 2 Church St., Scarborough, 883-2814, www.wsumc.us.

Christmas Fair, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.; haddock chowder luncheon, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m., Blue Point Congregational Church, 236 Pine Point Road, Scarborough.

Christmas Fair, 8:30 a.m. – 1 p.m., with silent auction, crafts, luncheon, Foreside Community Church, 340 Foreside Rd., Falmouth.

Christmas Fair, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m., First United Methodist Church, 179 Ridgeland Ave., South Portland. 

Coastal Christmas Fair, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. fair; 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. luncheon, Peoples United Methodist Church, 310 Broadway, South Portland. 

First Universalist Evergreen Fair, craft fair and silent auction, soup and bread luncheon, raffles and more, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m., First Universalist Church, 97 Maine St., Yarmouth, 846-4148.

A Gift of Christmas Fair, 8:30-11 a.m. pictures and donuts with Santa, $10; 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. fair; 5 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. seatings for Italian dinner $9 adults/$6 children, Holy Cross School, 436 Broadway, South Portland, 799-6661. 

Holiday Bazaar Craft and Bake Sale, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., free admission, Friends School of Portland, Carter Hall, Mackworth Island, Falmouth, 781-6321, friendsschoolofportland.org. 

Holiday Craft Fair, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m., Bay Square at Yarmouth, 27 Forest Falls Dr., Yarmouth, Mary Willson, 846-0044.

Holiday Fair, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., West Cumberland Methodist Church, Gray Rd, 829-4366. 

Holly Jolly Fair, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., First Parish Congregational Church, 40 Main St., Freeport, Andrea Conner, 865-3573.

Morrison Center Holiday Festival, craft, bake sale, entertainment, ponies, wagon rides and more, Morrison Center, 60 Chamberlain Road, Scarborough, 883-6680, www.mdcmaine.org.  

Meadow Wind Holiday Open House and Silent Auction, 3-7 p.m., free admission, Meadow Wind, 100 Gray Rd, Falmouth, 878-3899. 

New Gloucester Historical Society Open House/ Holiday Sale, with exhibit of historic town photos and antique vehicles, New Gloucester History Barn, 9 a.m. – noon, behind Town Hall, U.S. Route 231, New Gloucester, 926-3188.

North Yarmouth Holiday Events, Historical Society Old-Time Holiday Party, tree decorating, carols, crafts, gingerbread cookies, 1-3 p.m., Old Town House, U.S. Route 9, North Yarmouth; Community Potluck and Tree Lighting, 5 p.m., bring entree, side or salad to share, with entertainment, free/ donations accepted, Wescustogo Hall, U.S. Route 115, North Yarmouth; 846-4379. 

Shaker Christmas Fair, with BBQ meal, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., Sabbathday Lake Shaker Village, U.S. Route 26, New Gloucester, 926-4597. 

St. Bart’s Christmas Fair, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m., with luncheon, children’s craft area and childcare for $1, St. Bartholomew’s Episcopal Church, 396 Gilman Road, Yarmouth, www.stbartsyarmouth.org.

Old Fashioned Christmas Fair, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m., Trinity Episcopal Church Portland, 580 Forest Ave., Portland.

Williston-West UCC Christmas Fair, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m., 32 Thomas St., Portland. 

Winter’s Glow Gala, Holiday Art Show & Sale sponsored by Freeport Creative Arts, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., free admission, Freeport Square Gallery, 140 Main St., Freeport, 865-1616.

Sunday 12/6

Holy Martyrs Christmas Fair, with luncheon, 9:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., 266 Foreside Road, Falmouth, office@holymartyrs.org. 

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 Street, Yarmouth, 846-0783.

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.

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

The Salvation Army of Greater Portland is in need of volunteers for the holiday season. Positions include: ringing bells at a kettle (great for groups or families), packing food baskets, toys, drivers to take volunteers and equipment to and from kettle locations, call 774-4172 ext. 265 or email danielle.gudroe@use.salvationarmy.org. 

Ongoing

ActionBasedCare.org needs volunteers to expand organization, ABC believes in empowerment through sailing, and action-based activities to relieve depression, check Web site 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 has ongoing volunteer opportunities for caring people who can offer 3-4 hours per week, 170 U.S. Route 1, Falmouth, 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.

Coastal Studies for Girls, volunteers needed to help launch a residential science and leadership semester school for high school girls, based at Wolfe’s Neck Farm, Freeport, many opportuntities for a detail-oriented, efficient volunteer with excellent computer and communication skills, call Margaret Martin, 865-9700 or margaret@coastalstudies.org.  

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-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.

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

Freeport Historical Society needs Pettengill Farm stewards; volunteers for Greeter/Docent program, training, able to commit 3-4 hours at least every other week; and Jack or Jill of all trades to help with odd jobs and light maintenance, own tools and transportation necessary, Rita, 632-3011.

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

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 seeks volunteer drivers to provide rides for seniors and adults with visual impairments, call 854-0505 or visit www.itnportland.org to learn more.  

The Jason Program needs ambassadors of hope for Maine families of seriously ill and dying children, 65 Washington Ave., Portland, 773-2947, jasonprogram.org.

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.

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

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

Thursday 11/26

Thanksgiving Dinner, free for needy and elderly, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m., Toddy Brook Golf Course and Cafe, 925 Sligo Road, North Yarmouth, Mike Smith, 829-5100.

Friday 11/27

Free Community Soup Dinner, 5-7 p.m., St. Mary’s Parish House, The Church of St. Mary the Virgin, 43 Foreside Road, Falmouth, 781-3366.

Thursday 12/3

Wine, Brownies & Chocolate Tasting, hosted by Simply Divine Brownies & Wilbur’s of Maine Chocolate Confections, 4:30-6:30 p.m., 174 Lower Main St., Freeport, 865-4071, www.wilburs.com.

Gardens & Outdoors

Cumberland Farmers Market, Falmouth Farmers Market, Wednesdays 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., Allen, Sterling & Lothrup, 191 U.S. Route 1, Falmouth; Cumberland Farmers Market, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Fridays, Skillins Greenhouse, Route 100, West Cumberland, Leslie Fitzgerald, market.gal09@gmail.com.

Ongoing 

Early Morning Birding, 7-8:30 a.m. Wednesdays, $3 member, $5 nonmember, volunteers free, Scarborough Marsh Audubon Center, Pine Point Road, Scarborough, 883-5100.  

Hort Shorts & More education series, University of Maine Cooperative Extension, class listings and to register, 780-4205.

Wolfe’s Neck Farm, open daily for self-guided tours, visits to barn and pastures, community gardens, trail walks, 184 Burnett Road, Freeport, 865-4469.

Getting Smarter

Tuesday 12/1

“Creative Household Budgeting 2,” Tools for Hard Times Program, 4-5:30 p.m., free, hosted by State Street Church UCC, 159 State St., Portland, Anne Hendrix, 774-6396.  

“One Man’s Story of Tragedy, Escape and Immigration,” talk by Elfadel Arbab on plight of people of Darfur, Sudan, 7 p.m., free and open to public, Temple Beth El, 400 Deering Ave., Portland, presented by the National Council of Jewish Women Southern Maine Section, www.ncjw.org.

Thursday 12/3

“Sales and Marketing for Tech Start-ups: The Very Top Secret Techniques,” Lunch & Learn Monthly Workshops for Entrepreneurs, 12 p.m. registration; 12:30-2:30 p.m. workshop, Abromson Center Room 213, USM Portland, $10, free for USM students, hosted by Maine Center for Enterprise Development, register, workshops@mced.biz, 228-8524.

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.

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

Friday 11/27

“Coyote Wisdom: The Healing Power of Story and Dialogue,” weekend workshops with Dr. Lewis Mehl-Madrona, MD, PhD, Mphil., and author of “Coyote Medicine,” Nov. 27-29, 1 Friday Workshop; 3 Saturday Workshops; Sunday Sweat Lodge, $60 per workshop/ $200 weekend, Mainely Herbs Farm, 152 Spurwink Rd, Scarborough, register, Elizabeth Peoples, mainelyherbs@yahoo.com, 749-0690, Magili Chapman Quinn, DO chapmama@maine.rr.com, 450-7152.

Monday 11/30

Tender Living Care Program: A Program of Hope and Healing for Families Affected by a Serious Illness, 7-week session, free, hosted by the Center for Grieving Children, FMI, call or email Carol Sylvester, 775-5216 or carol@cgcmaine.org.

Tuesday 12/1

21st Annual World AIDS Day, candlelight vigil, performance by the Maine Gay Men’s Chorus, 5:30 p.m., Monument Square, Congress St., Portland, hosted by Frannie Peabody Center, FMI, Kristin Klein, 774-6877 ext. 126.

Holiday Warm-Up Week, week-long event with free lectures, classes, hosted by Coastal Wellness Family Chiropractic, 300 Ocean House Road, Cape Elizabeth, schedule, www.coastalwellnesschiro.com, register, 799-9355 or drvoelker@coastalwellnesschiro.com.

Wednesday 12/2

Holiday Grief Support Meetings, hosted by VNA Home Health & Hospice, 6-7:30 p.m. Wednesdays, Dec. 2, 16, 30, Jan. 13, 50 Foden Rd., South Portland, Linda Hopkins, 400-8714.

Thursday 12/3

“Creating Healing Spaces,” December Mended Hearts Meeting For Heart Survivors, Loved Ones, 7 p.m., Maine Medical Center’s Learning Resource Center, 100 Campus Drive, Scarborough, www.mendedhearts.org, Robyn Shaw, 662-2543.

Ongoing

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, www.newlightportland.org, 899-2435. 

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. 

Divorce Support Group, Mondays 6:30-8:30 p.m., $25, open to public, sponsored by Catholic Charities Maine Family Life Institute, St. Pius Church, Ocean Avenue, Portland, to register, 1-800-CARE-002 ext. 2670 or familylifeinstitute@ccmaine.org.

Food Addicts In Recovery, daily meetings: Monday, Bath, Brunswick; Tuesday, Scarborough; Wednesday, Bath, Scarborough, Topsham; Thursday, Freeport; Saturday, Brunswick; for locations and times, 775-2132 or foodaddicts.org.

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, www.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, www.HopeHealing.org. 

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

National Alliance on Mental Health, for friends and family of people with mental illness, 7-8:30 p.m., second and fourth Monday, except holidays, Maine Medical Center, Classroom 3, Portland, 893-1516.

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., www.oamaine.org.

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

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

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.

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.

Just for Seniors

Senior Snow-Shoveling Project, call if interested in receiving free snow shoveling services during the winter, for City of Portland residents ages 65 and older, call Joan Sheedy, 774-7616.  

Monday 11/30

Alzheimer’s Yarmouth Conversation Group, “Effective Communication Techniques,” 7-8:30 p.m., St. Bartholomew’s Church, 396 Gilman Road, Yarmouth, Darlene Field 632-2605 or Lois Knight 829-6164.

Tuesday 12/1

“Senior Care: What are my Options?” 2-4 p.m., free presentation, hosted by Lynn H. Peel, Beach Glass Transitions, 277 Congress St., Portland, 272-2792, www.beachglasstransitions.com.

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., Sullivan Complex, USM Portland campus, 780-4170.

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.

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 and Family Stuff

Friday 11/27

The Polar Express, Thursdays-Sundays, through Dec. 21; trains leave at 4, 5:15, 6:30 and 7:45 p.m., $24 child, $26 adult, $40 first class coach car, Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad, Ocean Gateway Depot, 58 Fore St., Portland, extra dates/times at www.mngrr.org/polar_express.html, tickets at www.porttix.com.

Saturday 11/28

The Fofer Show with Shana Barry, storytelling and songs for children, 6 p.m., $5, Freeport Square Gallery, 140 Main St., Freeport, 207-1616.

Saturday 12/5

Fiddlehead Family Holiday Craft Morning, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m., $10 per person, collecting non-perishable food items for Project Grace, Fiddlehead Center for the Arts, 383 US Route 1, Scarborough, 883-5720, www.fcascarborough.org

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.

Children’s Programs, “Baby Bounces” birth to 18 months Thursdays 10:30 a.m. and 11 a.m., “Preschool Story Time” ages 3 and up Tuesday 10:30 a.m., “Toddler Tales and Tunes” ages 18-36 months Thursday at 10:30 a.m., “Kindertales” ages 3-7 Saturday 10:30 a.m., 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.

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. 

Mid Coast

Benefits

Sunday 12/6

37th Annual Spirit of Christmas Fair to benefit the Bath Police D.A.R.E. program, crafts, face painting, raffles, more, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., Bath Middle School, 6 Old Brunswick Rd., Bath, information, Shelley Merrill, 443-8339.

Ongoing

Bottle Drive, to benefit the BHS Class of ’79 Get Involved Scholarship Fund; bring returnables to Don’s Redemption Center, 51 Harpswell Road, Brunswick, call 798-9201.

Bulletin Board

Thursday 11/26

InspireME’s 6th Annual 5k Turkey Trot, informal walk run for families, registration 7-8:15 a.m., trot 8:30 a.m., requested cash donation $10/minimum or non-perishable food contribution, tote given for $20 donation, for pre-registration contact Perian, 443-2509 or turkeytrot@inspiremept.com, InspireME Personal Fitness Training Studio, 30 Front St., Bath, race starts at Cafe Creme. 

Saturday 11/28

Annual Gingerbread Social, raffle, bake sale, 12-4 p.m., $2/child, $4/adult, everyone welcome, Cosmopolitan Club, 894 Washington St., Bath, Diane Nicol, 443-6134. 

Victorian Christmas Open House & Cookie Walk, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m., Phippsburg Historical Society Museum, 24 Parker Head Rd., Phippsburg, 443-6309.

Children’s Tree Lighting, Jingle Bell Walk, Visit with Santa, 3-5 p.m., children encouraged to bring homemade ornaments, Library Park and City Hall, Bath, information, 442-7291 or www.visitbath.com.

Tuesday 12/1

Bath YMCA Festival of Trees, auctions, seasonal and children’s activities, donations appreciated, Maine Maritime Museum, 243 Washington St., Bath, for events and information, 443-4112 or www.bathymca.org. 

Wednesday 12/2

The Cosmopolitan Club monthly meeting, program: Christmas for the Clubhouse, new members welcome, 6:30 p.m., Clubhouse, 894 Washington St., Bath, Diane Nicol 443-6134.

Bath YMCA Festival of Trees, auctions, seasonal and children’s activities, donations appreciated, Maine Maritime Museum, 243 Washington St., Bath, for events and information, 443-4112 or www.bathymca.org.  

Thursday 12/3

“Brunswick and Topsham’s Climate Action Plan: A Community Presentation,” by Bowdoin students, 7:30 p.m., Frontier Café, Brunswick, free, information, 725-3396. 

Saturday 12/5

Christmas Fair, wreaths, crafts, raffle, more, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m., luncheon 11 a.m., Bath United Church of Christ, 150 Congress Ave, 371 2727. 

St. Paul’s Christmas Fair, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., Cafe 11 a.m. – 2 p.m., St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 27 Pleasant St.,  Brunswick, 725-5342. 

St. John’s Christmas Craft Show, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., free, St. John’s Parish Hall, Pleasant St., Brunswick. 

Julefest held by Maine Nordmenn #3-664, Norwegian smorgasbord, St. Lucia procession, visit from Julenisse, more, noon-4 p.m., $10 members, $15 non-members, free for children 15 and under, Sky-Hy Convention Center, Topsham, Robert Boylestad, Rboylestad@aol.com or 828-5710. 

Tuesday 12/8

“Healthcare Reform and a National Health Program” by David Himmelstein, 7:30 p.m. Kresge Auditorium, Visual Arts Center, free, information, 725-3257. 

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.

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.

Call for Volunteers

Volunteers needed for the Bath-Brunswick area AARP Tax-Aide, provide free income tax assistance to seniors and low and moderate-income neighbors, sign up now for training held in January, computer familiarity a must, more info, www.aarp.org/taxaide, local coordinator Nancy Lord, 729-8730.

Ongoing

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.

Flying Changes Center for Therapeutic Riding needs volunteers who love horses, caring for them and learning to ride, 729-0168, located on Route 201 in Topsham.

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 needs volunteers to help eliminate domestic violence when parents exchange their children for visitations, evenings at Mid Coast Hospital, 123 Medical Center Drive, Brunswick, 837-4894.

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, 373-3691.

Money Management Program, help low-income seniors with routine financial matters, Spectrum Generations, 6 Noble St., Brunswick, 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.

Spectrum Generations, formerly Senior Spectrum, needs volunteers for Meals on Wheels delivery and AARPs

Money Management Program, 6 Noble St., Brunswick, 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.

Getting Smarter

Ongoing

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

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.

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.

Health & Support

Monday 12/7

Peer grief support group for children/teens/families, Hospice Volunteers: Center for Grief & Loss in Mid Coast Maine, new session, 6-7:15 p.m., intake appointment required, call Lynn Ellis, 729-3602 x104 or bereavedirector@hospicevolunteers.org.

Ongoing

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

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.

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.

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 meetings: Monday 7:30 p.m., First Parish Church, 9 Cleaveland St.; and Thursday 7 p.m., St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 27 Pleasant St.; Sunday 9 a.m., MidCoast Hospital, 123 Medical Center Drive.

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.

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 Street, 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.

Meals on Wheels, delivery available for homebound seniors, offered by Spectrum Generations, Brunswick Resource Center, 6 Noble St., Brunswick, 729-0475.

Money Management Program, monthly budgeting help for low-income seniors, offered by Spectrum Generations, Brunswick Resource Center, 6 Noble St., Brunswick, 729-0475.

People Plus Community Center, multipurpose facility provides recreational, social, informational, educational and personal services to persons 55+, 6 Noble 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.

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 Stuff

Wednesday 12/2

Men & Science: Robotics & Computer Science with Eric Chown from Bowdoin College, for boys ages 10-19; 6:30-7:30 p.m., pre-register, 725-5242 x225, Morrell Meeting Room, Curtis Memorial Library, free, courtesy of Cornerstones of Science, www.cornerstonesofscience.org.

Saturday 12/5

Kinder-Science: Glide or Fly? for 4, 5 & 6 year-olds and caregiver, siblings welcome, 10:30-11:30 a.m., limited to 15, pre-register 725-5242 x225, Morrell Meeting Room, Curtis Memorial Library, Cornerstones of Science program, www.cornerstonesofscience.org.

NOAA Citizen Science Training: Precipitation, for adults, teens and youth, 3-4 p.m., Morrell Meeting Room, Curtis Memorial Library.

Santa Claus visits Skolfield-Whittier House, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m., free, 161 Park Row, Brunswick, information, 729-6606. 

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. 

Morning Storytelling, 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, 725-5222 or explorefrontier.com.