ROME

RACHAEL GEROW, 12, of Rome, had her wish to attend the 2010 World Cup Finals in Johannesburg, South Africa, granted by the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Maine.

On average the group grants a wish every five days to a seriously ill Maine child, with each wish costing approximately $6,000. To read about Gerow’s trip visit www.mainewish.org.

PORTLAND

HISTORIAN AND ACTOR Harlan Baker is leading walking tours throughout Portland to sites of legendary happenings, recounting humorous, tragic and inspiring stories through Oct. 31. All tours begin at Tommy’s Park, Exchange and Middle streets. Gorham’s Corner walking tour leaves at 10 a.m. and the East End walking tour leaves at 2 p.m. Each tour lasts about one hour. For reservations, call 712-0228 or email hbaker2@maine.rr.com. Tickets are $10 a person, with group discounts available, and free for children younger than 6.

 

OPERATION HOMEFRONT New England is looking for donations to its Backpack Program. Through Aug. 2, local Dollar Tree stores will collect back to school supplies for military children. For more information, visit www.operationhomefront.net/newengland.

 

CHILDREN AND TEENS will receive a free ticket to ride on METRO or South Portland City Bus when they borrow a book at their local public library throughout July and August. Participating libraries include Portland Public Library, South Portland Public Library, Walker Memorial Library in Westbrook and Falmouth Memorial Library. For more information, or for routes and schedules, visit www.gpmetrobus.com or www.southportland.org.

ALFRED

YORK COUNTY SHELTER Programs is offering new items including furniture, a car, crafts, flower arrangements, quilts and afghans, decorative pieces and art work to support its programs. Visit www.yorkcountyshelterprograms.org. The first person to meet the asking price of an item will be able to purchase it. Items not yet sold by Sept. 25 will be displayed for purchase at the Apple Festival. For more information, call 324-1137 or e-mail mqdoyle@gmail.com.