Greater Portland

Benefits

Wednesday 9/9

Spaghetti Dinner Benefit, fundraiser for Alzheimer’s Association Memory Walk, 5-6:30 p.m., Bay Square at Yarmouth, 27 Forest Falls Drive, Yarmouth, tickets, Mary Willson, 846-0044.

Friday 9/11

Benefit Yoga Class, to benefit Habitat for Humanity, 5:45 p.m., by donation, Portland Yoga Studio, 616 Congress St., third floor, Portland, beginners welcome, www.portlandyoga.com, 799-0054.

Saturday 9/12

The Maine Lighthouse Ride, fundraiser for the Eastern Trail Alliance, four ride options, from 100 – 25 miles, start times vary, 7:30 a.m. – 9 a.m., registration fees, $40-$55, SMCC, South Portland, register, Eastern Trail Alliance, 284-9260 or info@easterntrail.org. 

Tide Water Walk-A-Thon, fundraiser for construction of a Regional Learning Center at Tidewater Farm in Falmouth, five mile route begins at Tidewater Farmhouse, Falmouth, Andrea Herr, 780-4205 or aherr@umext.maine.edu, register, www.extension.umaine.edu/tidewater.

Sunday 9/13

Dry Stone Wall Workshop with Master Craftsman Chris Tanguay, to benefit Yarmouth Community Garden programs, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., $75, bring sturdy work boots, safety glasses, and work gloves, Yarmouth Community Garden, East Main St., Yarmouth, rain date Sept. 20, sign-up at Yarmouth Community Services, 846-2406.

Fall Into Fashion, fashion show and luncheon to benefit the Columbiettes and the Classroom Chair Campaign, 12 p.m., Saint Maximilian Kolbe Parish Hall, 150 Black Point Road, Scarborough, tickets, Kathy Sparta, 883-1742 or Doris Trombley, 883-2855.  

KAT-Walk, to benefit Dress for Success Southern Maine Chapter and the Brain Aneurysm Foundation, in memory of Kimberly Ann Tudor, 2 p.m. registration, 3 p.m. walk, Back Cove, Portland, www.kat-walk.org.

Raise the Roof Bluegrass and Barbecue, “Friendraiser” to benefit Habitat for Humanity of Greater Portland, with live music, children’s activities, raffles and more, 1-4 p.m. rain or shine, $25 adult / $10 kids ages 6-17, free for ages 0-5, family discount, Thompson’s Orchard, 276 Gloucester Hill Road, New Gloucester, tickets, 772-2151 or www. Firstgiving.com/habitatme. 

Tuesday 9/15

Massage for the Cure, to benefit the Maine Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure, $35 one-hour therapeutic massage sessions, appointment required, Massage Envy, Cornerbrook Plaza, 343 Gorham Road, South Portland, 772-7770 or MassageEnvy.com.

Thursday 9/17

“Faces of Literacy: Voices of Courage”, with talk by Vicki Myron, author of “Dewey: The Small-Town Library Cat Who Touched the World,” to benefit Literacy Volunteers of Maine, 5:15 p.m. jazz reception, appetizers, silent auction, book signing, $25 adult / $15 senior or student, Abromson Community Center, USM Portland campus, tickets, Tickets are Nonesuch Books in Saco and South Portland, Books, Etc. in Falmouth; 773-3191 or www.lvmaine.org.

Fort Allen Trail Celebration, and fundraiser for trail plantings, 5-6 p.m. reception at Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad, reception tickets at www.brownpapertickets.com/event/77887, or 1-800-838-3006; 6-7:30 p.m. celebration at the gazebo, with music by ‘Big Chief’, open to public, friendsofeasternpromenade.org.

Friday 9/18

Pulled Pork Dinner, 5 p.m. and 6:15 p.m. seatings, to benefit Bartlett Circle Capital Campaign. $12 adult / $8 child or senior / $30 family, First Parish Congregational Church, 116 Main St., Yarmouth, 846-3773, advance tickets at Yarmouth Community Services.

Bulletin Board

Thursday 9/10

ecomaine meetings, 4-5:30 p.m. recycling committee: 5:45-8 p.m. “Recycling Idea Exchange,” open to public, waste-to-energy plant, 64 Blueberry Road, Portland, 773-1738.

Ferry Village and Ferry Village Neighborhood Conservation Association Annual Meeting, 7 p.m., hosted by Mad Horse Theater Company at the former Mosher St. School, South Portland, www.ferryvillageme.org.

Rev. Roy Bourgeois, founder of School of Americas Watch, 7 p.m., Talbott Auditorium, Luther Bonney Hall, USM Portland Campus, 773-6562. 

“Unprecedented Times, Unparalleled Importance,” talk on international politics by Colonel William F. Smullen III, former chief of staff for Colin Powell, 5 p.m., followed by Q&A, free and open to public, Moot Courtroom Portland, hosted by the World Affairs Council of Maine and the University of Maine School of Law, 780-4552,
www.wacmaine.org. 

Friday 9/11

Celebration of Codman Gravestone, with Mayor Duson, Portland Museum of Art curator Tom Denenberg and more, refreshments, 12 p.m., Eastern Cemetery, Portland, hosted by Spirits Alive, www.spiritsalive.org.

Eighth Annual 9-11 Tribute, with the Freeport Flag Ladies, 7:30-9:30 a.m., corner of Main and School Streets, Freeport, Elaine Greene, 865-3414. 

Remembrance Ceremony and Park Clean-up, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., free and open to public, hosted by Hour Exchange Portland, City of Portland, United Way and USM, Deering Oaks Park bandstand, Portland, www.HourExchangePortland.org. 

Saturday 9/12

Inaugural Open Lighthouse Day, 27 lighthouses throughout Maine open to the public, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., in partnership with the Maine Office of Tourism and the American Lighthouse Foundation.

Picnic Music + Arts Festival, with 100 artists and crafters, live music, 11 a.m. – 6 p.m., free, open to public, Lincoln Park, Congress Street and Franklin Arterial, www.picnicportland.wordpress.com.

Monday 9/14

Falmouth Memorial Library Annual Meeting, 7 p.m., free and open to public, Russell Community Room, FML, 5 Lunt Road, Falmouth, 781-2351.

Wednesday 9/16

Celebration of Amazing Women 2009, Maine Women’s Network annual event, with talk by Diane Dunton, “Reinventing Ourselves,” 1:30 p.m. breakout sessions, 4:30 p.m. social hour, dinner and program to follow, $70 members / $100 nonmembers, Harraseeket Inn, Main St., Freeport, www.mainewomensnetwork.com.

Ongoing

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

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

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.

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.

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

Sunday 9/13

South Portland Land Trust Volunteer Day, help needed to complete newest trail and other tasks, 8:30 a.m. meet at JC Penney parking lot next to Philbrook Road, South Portland, sign-up at www.SPlandtrust.com or 761-2767. 

Sunday 9/20

Portland Trails needs volunteers for 10th Annual 10K, “Trail to Ale,” 9 a.m. race starts, sign-up at www.trails.org/volunteer or 775-2411.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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; benefits of living allowance, health care, education award; apply online AmeriCorps.gov; Meredith Eaton 941-2800 ext. 207, meredithe@unitedwayem.org

Dining Out

Saturday 9/12

Bean Hole Bean Supper, 4:30-6 p.m., $6 adults /$3 children, Blue Point Congregational Church, 236 Pine Point Road, Scarborough, 883-6540, www.bluepointchurch.org.

Roast Beef Supper, 5-7 p.m., $8 adult / $4 child, St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, 678 Washington Ave., Portland, 775-1179.

Gardens & Outdoors

Cumberland Farmers Market, Falmouth Farmers Market, Wednesdays
12-4 p.m., Walmart parking lot, U.S. Route 1, Falmouth; Freeport
Farmers Market, Fridays, Town Office lot, Main Street, Freeport 2-6
p.m., 8:30 a.m.-12 p.m., Cumberland Farmers Market, 290 Tuttle Road,
Cumberland; Leslie Fitzgerald, market.gal09@gmail.com.

Saturday 9/12

Invasive Species Removal Workshop, hosted by the Royal River Conservation Trust, 2-4 p.m., open to public, Littlejohn Island Preserve bring work gloves and water, snacks provided, 221-6477.

Skillins Garden Class, “Pruning for a Purpose,” 10 a.m., free, open to public, Cumberland Skillins, Gray Road, 829-5619, or Falmouth Skillins, Foreside Road, 781-3860.

Saturday 9/19

Guided Nature Hikes, 10 a.m. or 1:30 p.m., $5 adult / $2 children; free ages 6 and under, Sabbathday Lake Shaker Village, U.S. Route 26, New Gloucester, 926-4597, www.shaker.lib.me.us. 

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.

True Tales Tours of Portland, historic downtown walking tour with Harlan Baker, 3:45 p.m. tours leave from Monument Square, Thursdays-Saturdays, rain or shine, 2 hours, $22; 712-0228 or www.harlanbaker.com.  

Getting Smarter

Wednesday 9/16

“A Natural History of the Senses,” by Diane Ackerman, Brown Bag Lunch book discussion with Rachel Herz, world renowned scent maven, author, scientist, 12:15-1:15 p.m., free and open to the public, Curtis Memorial Library, 23 Pleasant Street, Brunswick, 725-5242, www.cornerstonesofscience.org. 

 “Site Makeover Strategy: Turn your non-performing website into one that sells,” 2-3:30 p.m.; “How To Plan, Build and Promote a Business Blog,” 4-5:30 p.m., Portland SCORE offices, 100 Middle St., Second Floor, East Tower, Portland, www.scoremaine.com, 772-1147.

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

Wednesday 9/9

Portland Shambhala Meditation Center Open House, 6-8 p.m., free and open to public, 97 Newbury St., Portland, Emily Bogner, emilybogner@hotmail.com or 408-9991.

Thursday 9/10

Labyrinth Walk: Remembrance, 4-7 p.m. Thursday and 5-7 p.m. Friday, open to public, Trinity Church, 580 Forest Ave., Portland, 772-7421, www.trinitychurchportland.org.

Friday 9/11

“Balancing Your Life After Divorce 101,” 6:30 p.m. Fridays through Oct. 30, $25 per session, led by Judy Braun, registered counselor, hosted by The Cumberland Congregational Church, Main St., Cumberland, register, Rev. Diane Bennekamper 829-3419 or Judy Braun, 751-3449. to register.

Saturday 9/12

Kids First Program, 4 hour co-parenting education workshop for parents in a divorce or separation, 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; or Sept. 19, 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., $60 per adult / scholarships available, Kids First Center, 222 St. John St., Suite 101, Portland 761-2709, www.kidsfirstcenter.org.

Monday 9/14

Bereaved Parents’ Peer Support Group, open to all parents who have lost a child of any age, Monday evenings, register, Susan Giambalvo or Patricia Ellen, 775-5216 The Center for Grieving Children, Portland, www.cgcmaine.org.

Tender Living Care Program: A Program of Hope and Healing for Families Affected by a Serious Illness, 8-week session starts Sept. 14, register, Carol Sylvester, 775-5216 Center for Grieving Children, Portland, www.cgcmaine.org.

Ongoing

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

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

Wednesday 9/9

Alzheimer’s Conversation Series and Support Group, 7-8:30 p.m., Alzheimer’s Association Chapter Office, 170 U.S. Route 1, Falmouth, David Currier, 772-0115 or David.Currier@alz.org.

Thursday 9/17

Apply for Social Security Retirement Benefits On-Line, information session by Social Security Public Affairs Specialist Magda Ortiz, 3 p.m. and 7 p.m., Freeport Community Library, 10 Library Drive Freeport, 865-3307, www.freeportlibrary.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

Saturday 9/12

Community Fair and Carnival, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.; with games, music, pony rides; puppet shows at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m., free and open to public, Peoples United Methodist Church, 310 Broadway, South Portland, www.peoplesumc.com, 749-5702.

North Yarmouth Fun Day, children’s games, vendors, silent auction, fire truck rides, entertainment and more, Saturday and Sunday, for daily list of events, www.nymeevents.com, Village Green, next to Wescustogo Hall, U.S. Route 115, North Yarmouth, 221-0340, 595-2997.

Sandsations 2009: Sand Sculpture Contest and Family Fun Day, to benefit Birth Roots, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., $4.50 park entrance fee, under 5 free, Crescent Beach State Park, 66 Two Lights Road, Cape Elizabeth, Birth Roots, 772-4784, www.ourbirthroots.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.

Family Nature Walk: Mummichogs and Marsh Muck, 10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m., Wednesdays, $5 member / $7 nonmember, Scarborough Marsh Audubon Center, Pine Point Road, Scarborough, 883-5100.  

Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Co. and Museum, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., seven days a week, children 3-12, $1; 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.

Mid Coast

Benefits

Friday 9/11

ImproVox ‘Artists in Resonance’ Interactive Concert to benefit Merrymeeting Community Shares; a cappella ensemble, international and American songs, improvisation, more, 7:00 p.m., $8; $6 seniors/students, additional gifts to MCS welcome; 50/50 raffle, information, Matt 729-4718 or www.improvox.com. 

Saturday 9/12

Pedal for Bpeace, ride to benefit Bpeace’s work in Afghanistan and Rwanda; register 8 a.m.; ride, 8:30 a.m., 25 or 50 miles; to qualify, raise at least $100 from friends and families using website, http://www.bpeace.org/ride. 

Sunday 9/13

2009 Race 4 Space, proceeds benefit Brunswick-Topsham Land Trust, t-shirts for first 50 4-mile race registrants; 8 a.m. registration; 9 a.m. 4-mile running race $20; 9:15 a.m. guided walking tour of historic Pennellville $10; 10 a.m. 1-mile running race for junior runners $5; 10:15 a.m. Fun Run for kids $5; maximum $40/family; Livesay Soccer Field, Middlebay Road, Brunswick; register, www.active.com; request application, 725-0998.

Saturday 9/19

First NF Walk to benefit Neurofibromatosis research and patient care, 8:30 a.m., rain or shine, free, with free NF Walk T-shirts for walkers who raise $100, begin at Water St. entrance, Androscoggin River Bicycle and Pedestrian Path; to donate or register, www.ctf.org/nfwalk, 443-1583.  

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

Wednesday 9/9

The Cosmopolitan Club of Bath, monthly meeting, new members welcome, 6 p.m., clubhouse, 894 Washington St., for information, 443-3231. 

Mid-Coast Retired Educators Association meeting, 11:30 a.m., with speaker from The Merrymeeting Community Shares, China Rose Restaurant, Brunswick; Peg Newberg, 833-6336.  

Friday 9/11

Bridging Divides: PICA’s Know Us and Them, presented by Peace Through Interamerican Community Action, 7 p.m., community room, Unitarian Universalist Church, Middle St., Brunswick, sponsored by PeaceWorks, 725-7675.

Saturday 9/12

Community Day for Emergency Preparedness, exhibits, demonstrations, flu clinic information, children’s activities, prizes, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m., rain or shine, Curtis Memorial Library, 23 Pleasant St., Brunswick; parking behind the school at St. John’s and St. Paul’s Church; Linda Oliver 725-5242 x214 or Josh Frances 831-8459.

Growstown School Open House, sponsored by Pejepscot Area Altrusa Club, 2-4 p.m., Growstown School, Woodside Road, Brunswick; for information, PejepscotASltrusa@gmail.com or 725-8240. 

“The Skolfields of Park Row,” tour 19th century buildings, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., free, Pejepscot Historical Society, 159 Park Row, Brunswick, for information, 729-6606. 

Rabies Plus! Clinic, proceeds benefit shelter animals, 9-11 a.m., ear cleaning, nail trimming $5-$10 each; microchipping $25/pet; rabies vaccinations $10, Coastal Humane Society, 30 Range Road, Brunswick, 725-5051 for information or www.coastalhumanesociety.org 

Sunday 9/13

“The Jewish Immigrants of Bath, 1900-1960,” panel discussion on growing up Jewish in Bath, guest speaker Dr. Nathan Cogan, free, open to public, Beth Israel Congregation, 862 Washington St., Bath, 443-4606. 

Pejepscot Genealogy Society Fall Meeting, 2 p.m., Merrill Meeting Room, 1st floor, Curtis Memorial Library, Brunswick, for information, 833-7371. 

Wednesday 9/16

“First Time Home Buyers Seminar,” with representatives from MaineHousing, Rural Development, Homeworks, realtor and banker, 6-8 p.m., free, Border Trust, Topsham, hosted by The Brunswick Housing Authority and Mid-Coast Community Housing Coalition.

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

Thursday 9/10

Informational Rally, 2010 Relay For Life Planning Committee volunteers needed, 6-7 p.m., American Cancer Society, One Bowdoin Mill Island, Suite 300, Topsham; Donna Muto, 373-3703. 

Monday 9/14

Red Cross Blood Drive, noon-6 p.m., Knights of Columbus hall, 807 Middle St., Bath, 443-5389. 

Monday 9/21

Arctic Museum seeks volunteer tour guides for school tours; design your own tour, orientation, ongoing training, meetings 2 Monday afternoons/month, first meeting 9/21, 1 p.m., Peary-MacMillan Arctic Museum, first floor, Hubbard Hall, Bowdoin College, Amy Hawkes, 725-3416, ahawkes@bowdoin.edu. 

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.

Dining Out

Saturday 9/12

Public Baked Bean and Casserole Supper, 5-6:30 p.m., $8 adults, $4 children (6-12), free ages 6 and under, Brunswick United Methodist Church, corner Church and Raymond Roads, Brunswick, reservations accepted, 725-2185.

Saturday 9/19

Fall Church Supper, 4:30-6:30 p.m., adults $7.50 / $3.50 children under 12, no reservations, The Bath United Methodist Church, 340 Oak Grove Ave, 443-4707. 

Gardens & Outdoors

Wednesday 9/9

Main Street Bath Annual Mum Sale, 8-inch pots, $5.50 each, portion of proceeds to Main Street Bath’s downtown flowers reserve fund, orders must be received by 9/9, plants available 9/11, 9 a.m. – noon, Waterfront Park, Bath; pre-order at www.visitbath.com or Main Street Bath office, 15 Commercial St., train station visitors center, 442-7291.

Topsham Garden Club, noon luncheon, 1 p.m. business meeting, “Growing Living Room Orchids” by Noah Fecteau of The Urban Garden Center, new members welcome, Topsham Public Library, 25 Foreside Road, Topsham; for information, Marie, 729-1295 or Carol, 729-7225.  

Saturday 9/12

Harpswell Garden Club Plant Sale, 9:30 a.m. – 1 p.m., Centennial Hall, Harpswell, Marcy McGuire 729-3509. 

Sunday 9/20

“How to Create a Wildlife-Friendly Backyard,” Brunswick Park and Gardens with Gretchen Kamilewicz, Habitat Steward, door prizes, 1 p.m., free, open to public, Morrell Meeting Room, Curtis Memorial Library, Brunswick, 833-5125.

Ongoing

The L.O.C.A.L. Garden Open Gardening each Wednesday 5 p.m. – 7 p.m., community open house, tours 3-5 p.m. Monday-Friday weather permitting; The L.O.C.A.L. Garden, an RSU 1 program, corner of High and Lemont, Bath, 380-9979. 

Getting Smarter

Thursday 9/10

401k Education Seminar, Christian Bishop of Northeast Financial, workshop on Job Loss and 401(k)s, 7-8 p.m., Northeast Bank, 186 Maine St., Brunswick, RSVP by 9/7, Peg McGovern, 800-284-5989 x3613. 

Ongoing

ArtWorks, Creative Arts Night, 7-9 p.m. Wednesday, Bath Recreation Center, 4 Sheridan Road, 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 9/14

NAMI Family-to-Family Education Program, 12-week course for families of persons diagnosed with serious mental illness, free, pre-registration required, Brunswick classes start Monday 9/14, 6:30-9 p.m.,register, Valerie, 319-7956, or NAMI-Maine, 1-800-464-5767.

Course “Contemplating Death” Mondays 6:30-8:30 p.m. 9/14-10/26, all welcome, $35 plus $15/text, discounts available, Brunswick Shambhala Center, 19 Mason St., Brunswick, register www.shambhalabp.org.  

Sunday 9/20

Fourth “America on the Move” Week  free admission to YMCA through 9/26, The Bath Area Family YMCA, 303 Centre St., Bath, 443-4112, www.bathymca.org. 

“Reiki & Reconnective Healing” Open House, free, 3-5 p.m., 8 Lincoln St., Brunswick, 729-8141.

Ongoing

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.

Merrymeeting Senior Citizens Club, potluck lunch and program, not affiliated with the church, meets third Tuesday of the month, United Baptist Church, 1 Elm St., Topsham, 725-7389.

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.

Kids and Family Stuff

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.