Land trust offers winter walk

On Saturday, Feb. 7, at 10 a.m., the Scarborough Land Trust will hold a winter nature walk at the Broadturn Farm entitled, “Where’s Wildlife in Winter?” The event, which is free and open to the public, will also include a variety of activities for kids. The walk will be followed by hot cocoa in the barn, and a visit with the farmers.

Land trust board member and wildlife enthusiast Gil Paquette will lead the walk along the Silver Brook Trail. Meet behind the Broadturn Farm, off Hanson Road. Attendees are encouraged to dress appropriately for weather and trail conditions. Free trail maps can be downloaded at www.scarboroughlandtrust.org.

The 434-acre Broadturn Farm property is owned and conserved by the land trust, and leased to John Bliss and Stacy Brenner for their farm operation. Call 289-1199 for more information about the winter walk or the land trust.

Manage falls and increase activity

Many older adults experience concerns about falling and therefore restrict their activities. That’s why the Southern Maine Agency on Aging is once again offering its popular A Matter Of Balance workshop.

The workshop is designed to help older adults learn to manage falls and increase their activity levels. In addition, participants will earn how to view falls as controllable, set goals for increasing activity, learn exercises to increase strength and balance and make changes to reduce your risk of falling at home.

The next workshop begins on Wednesday, Feb. 11, at 10:45 a.m. It will be held at the Southern Maine Agency on Aging office, located at 136 U.S. Route 1 in Scarborough. The workshop will be held weekly through April 8.

Call 396-6583 or email [email protected] to register or for more information.

Authors to make appearance

The Abbey, a Catholic book and gift shop in Scarborough, is holding two special author events next month. Both events are free and open to the public. Call 885-5813 for more information.

The first book signing will feature Susan Conroy, author of “Coming to Christ: Resting in his Love” and “A Legacy of Love: Personal reflections upon a Kind and Gentle Mother.” That event will be held on Saturday, Feb. 7, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Those pre-ordering Conroy’s latest titles will receive a 5 percent discount.

The second event will feature Fred Prince, author of “A Journey with the Holy Spirit.” Prince will be at The Abbey on Saturday, Feb. 14, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. The bookstore is also offering a 5 percent discount off this book if ordered prior to Feb. 1.

Cupcake paper bouquet session

Just in time for Valentine’s Day join the South Portland Public Library in another Artsy Afternoon craft session. Learn to make cupcake paper bouquets to give to that special someone.

The session, which is free and open to the public, will be held on Saturday, Feb. 14, 1-3 p.m. These fancy, faux flowers make wonderful gifts, or can be placed decoratively around your home Pre-registration is required. Go online to http://southportlandlibrary.com to register or for more information.

DOT plans to fix local roads

Among the projects the Maine Department of Transportation has scheduled for 2015-2017 are improvements to Route 114 and Pleasant Hill Road in Scarborough, along with pedestrian and bicyclist safety improvements to Route 114.

According to state Sen. Amy Volk, of Scarborough, more than $4 million is also allocated for work on the Pine Point Crossing Bridge, which connects Blue Point and Pine Point.

The full work plan, including an interactive map can be accessed on online at www.maine.gov/mdot.

SMMC celebrates scholarships

The Southern Maine Community College Foundation has awarded $250,000 in scholarships to more than 260 students for the current academic year and is celebrating that accomplishment with a series of receptions to recognize scholarship recipients and donors.

The scholarships are vital for students who otherwise might not be able to go to college. The funding comes from the generosity of businesses, civic groups, community leaders and individuals who are committed to the mission of Southern Maine Community College, which is headquartered in South Portland.

“These grants allow students to reach their potential and pursue their dreams and ambitions,” said Ron Cantor, the college’s president. “Forward-thinking business and community leaders who contribute to these grants are empowering our students through education and opportunity.”

In all, more than 260 scholarships have been awarded this year, with the Southern Maine Community College Foundation has provided $200,000 and the rest of the scholarship funds came from the Maine Community College System and the Foundation for Maine’s Community Colleges.

“I’m using my scholarship to help pay for my education and help pay back some loans,” said Isaiah Lemay, a senior majoring in communications and new media. “It helps me make sure I can stay steady and pay the bills while I finish my degree.”

The scholarship funds help Lemay reach his academic goals while taking a full load of courses, working two jobs and interning at a local television station.

Find out how you can support the foundation and its work by calling 741-5559 or going online to www.smccME.edu/foundation.

– Kate Irish Collins