The Brick Store Museum announced that it will host an original play, written by the museum’s 2024 Artist-in-Residence Diane Lent, called “Resonance of Passion: From Battlefield to the Sea.”

Lent, according to a news release, used collections of letters between husbands and wives in the 19th century, now housed in the museum’s archives, to bring the play to life. The play will be performed at the museum on Thursday, Nov. 21 at 6 p.m.

Admission includes a culinary experience featuring the timeless staple of the sea— hardtack — paired with a taste of Gen. Ambrose Burnside’s punch.

Tickets for the play are $15 per person, $10 for museum members. For more information and purchase tickets, visit www.brickstoremuseum.org/calendar.

 

Seaglass Chorale

concerts in December

Seaglass Chorale announced its 2024 winter concert – Stella Natalis – will be performed on Friday, Dec. 13, at 7 p.m. and Saturday, Dec. 14, at 4 p.m. Both concerts are at St. David’s Episcopal Church in Kennebunk. Following the Seaglass Chorale’s performance of Stella Natalis, the Seatones will perform an arrangement of holiday songs followed by a community sing-along.

Tickets for the concert can be purchased in advance at www.seaglasschorale.org or in person at the concert. Tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for 18 and younger.

Founded in 1993 by Artistic Director Jean Strazdes, Seaglass Chorale is a non-auditioned adult choral group of 60 voices. The chorale represents about 20 southern Maine communities and regularly performs throughout the area, with concerts in Kennebunk, Kennebunkport, Wells, Sanford, Saco, and other regional venues.

For more information, to join the chorale or donate, visit www.seaglasschorale.org.

 

Death Cafe

at Graves Library

Graves Memorial Library will host a Death Cafe program 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 20.

According to a news release, a Death Cafe is a safe and relaxed space to gather with people to discuss topics related to death and dying. The objective is to engage in interesting, thought-provoking, and life-affirming conversations.

The conversation  will be facilitated by Marilyn R. Gugliucci, professor and director of Geriatric Education and Research at the University of New England. The event is hosted by Kennebunkport Public Health Department and Graves Library and preregistration is required.

Louis T. Graves Memorial Public Library is at 18 Maine St., Kennebunkport. For more information or to register, call 207-967-2778 or visit www.graveslibrary.org.

 

Turkey, cornhole

roll at Post 159

American Legion Post 159 in Kennebunkport, will hold its annual turkey, cornhole roll on Friday, Nov. 22,
at 6 p.m. Participants can try their luck at winning a turkey and a variety of other prizes. Doors will open at 5:30 p.m.

Legion Post 159 is located at 102 Main St., across from the police station. For more information, call 207-967-2400.

 

Donations for

Grace Street

South Congregational Church is rallying the community to support Grace Street Ministry, an organization based in Portland, that provides outreach and support to the homeless population. To help meet the needs of individuals experiencing homelessness, the church is collecting $5 Dunkin’ gift cards and hooded sweatshirts (hoodies) of all sizes.

The goal, according to a news release, is to gather 550 Dunkin’ cards, and 180 hoodies offering warmth and sustenance to those served by the ministry. The $5 Dunkin’ cards provide individuals with a chance to enjoy a warm beverage and a place to rest inside a Dunkin’ location. Hoodies offer warmth and protection, especially as the weather turns colder.

“Grace Street Ministry does incredible work on the streets of Portland, building relationships and providing hope to those who often feel forgotten,” the Rev. Susan Townsley, pastor of South Congregational Church said in an email. “Through this collection drive, we hope to extend the compassion of our community and make a meaningful impact.”

South Congregational Church invites community members to participate by donating $5 Dunkin’ gift cards or new/gently used hoodies. Donations can be dropped off at the church located at 2 North St., Kennebunkport, through Nov 30.

If it is not office hours, there is a locked drop on the back porch for cards, and a bin for hoodies. To make donations online, visit www.southchurchucc.org/donations.

For more information, email info@southchurchucc.org.

 

Ukraine subject of

Camden Conference

Kennebunk Free Library and the Camden Conference will host Bill Hall at Kennebunk Free Library on Monday, Dec. 2 at 6 p.m. to discuss Ukraine and the Survival of Democracy in Europe.

According to a news release, the outcome of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine seems a bellwether for the survival of democracy in Europe. The talk will examine democracy’s status and prospects in eastern/central Europe as it relates to Ukraine’s future as an independent nation. A solidly democratic neighborhood for Ukraine would strengthen Ukraine’s position in the fight and in the eventual peace talks – and perhaps restrain Moscow from further attempts to rebuild the Russian empire.

Hall was an intelligence officer for the US Air Force, serving on active duty from 1969 until 1999, much of that time overseas – in Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. He grew up in Virginia and received a bachelor’s degree in politics from Princeton University and a master’s degree in foreign affairs from the University of Virginia. He is on the board of the Camden Conference and a past president of the World Affairs Council of Maine. He and his wife, Nancy, live on Peaks Island.

The program is free and wheelchair accessible. Kennebunk Free Library is located at 112 Main St. in Kennebunk. For more information, call 207-985-2173 or email kfl@kennebunklibrary.org.

 

Class of 1965 seeks

scholarship nominations

The Kennebunk High School class of 1965 is accepting nominations for a scholarship recipient from the Kennebunk High School class of 2025.

Applicants must be enrolled/attend Kennebunk High School and will be furthering their education after high school in any field, trade, college, or training, and they must have a relative or direct connection to a Kennebunk High School class of 1965 graduate.  The connection includes grandchildren, great-grandchildren, godchildren, foster children, nieces, nephews, cousins, etc.

For  more information or to apply, contact Donna Bull Thompson at donnawjhs2003@yahoo.com.

 

Coastal Winds concert

at Holy Cross Church

Coastal Winds Clarinet Quartet will present a concert at noon on Sunday, Nov. 17, at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Kennebunk. The quartet’s selections will range from Big Band to Gospel, Blues to Latin, and Broadway to Rock.

Selections scheduled to be performed include a medley from Les Miserables; Scarborough Fair, as arranged by Pentatonix; Tico-Tico; Bohemian Rhapsody by Queen; and Basin Street Blues.

The instrumentalists include Joan DeVittori of Hampton, New Hampshire, Ted Hagarty from Wells, Jack Kupp of Kennebunk and Jean Quinn from South Portland.

There will be a free-will offering with proceeds going to the church. A coffee hour with dessert will be offered at 11:30 a.m. prior to the concert. It will be in Luther Hall which is adjacent to the sanctuary.

 

Audubon presentation

features Arctic artist

In 2019, North Yarmouth wildlife artist Michael Boardman was selected to be the artist-in-residence for the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge in Northern Alaska. Boardman will share his latest adventures in the Arctic, telling stories of animals, geology, human history and why people should be concerned about the endangered landscape. The program will be presented in Mather Auditorium at Wells Reserve at Laudholm, and via Zoom, on Tuesday, Nov. 19 at 7 p.m.

The landscape, according to a York County Audubon news release, has become embedded in Boardman’s focus and artwork, and he has returned several times to explore the natural history of the refuge, recording his experiences through sketching. Since then, he has returned to the Arctic several times.

The presentation is free and open to all ages. No registration is required for attending the program in person. To view it via Zoom, register in advance at yorkcountyaudubon.org.

Boardman, according to the news release, is known for his watercolor bird portraits and nature journal sketches. He has connected his art to wildlife science through artist residencies at Acadia National Park, Hog Island Audubon Camp, Glacier Bay National Park, in addition to the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge in Alaska. He is also the owner and artist of Coyote Graphics, creating nature-based garments from his artwork.

 

Library schedules

strategic plan launch

Kennebunk Free Library extended an invitation for residents to participate in its strategic plan launch. Participants are invited to drop in anytime from 4 to 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 19, to pick up copy of the plan, have light refreshments, and talk with members of the Strategic Plan Subcommittee.

According to a news release, the library was “overwhelmed by the level of engagement and thoughtful responses we received through our survey, focus groups, and interviews. The board of trustees also participated in a retreat that focused on community feedback to establish our strategic priorities. All these insights and suggestions combined were instrumental in shaping a strategic plan that will ensure the library continues to meet the evolving needs of our community while fostering a space that inspires learning, creativity, and connection.”

Copies of the plan will be available at the launch event, and it will be posted Nov. 20 at kennebunklibrary.org.

Kennebunk Free Library is located at 112 Main St., Kennebunk. For more information, visit the library on Facebook and Instagram or call 985-2173.

 

Understanding grief

session at library

Kennebunk Free Library will host a lunch-and-learn session on understanding grief featuring Linda Hopkins, MD, bereavement coordinator for Northern Light Home Care and Hospice. The event is scheduled for 1 p.m. on Nov. 15.

The presentation will provide information to help understand grief (in all of its forms and contexts) and will help provide suggestions for coping. To register, visit kennebunklibrary.org.

The program is free and wheelchair accessible. Kennebunk Free Library is located at 112 Main St., Kennebunk. For more information, call 207-985-2173 or email kfl@kennebunklibrary.org.

 

Museum features

student artwork

The Brick Store Museum is partnering with Kennebunk High School visual arts students to exhibit their work on a project starting Nov. 8. A new exhibition will open in the museum’s Patsy Bauman Gallery featuring perspectives of historic Kennebunk through the photography of students.

The exhibit is the result of a project led by KHS art teacher Katie Mooney with research provided by the Brick Store Museum. It features on-location photographs selected and taken by students. The photos focus on architecture and historic structures of Kennebunk, taken when students visited the museum to explore the Main Street and Summer Street neighborhood histories.

“The Brick Store Museum is proud to partner with teachers and students to create new pathways for learning and exploring our world through history and art,” wrote Brick Store Museum Executive Director Cynthia Walker in a news release.

The exhibition will be open through December. Students and their families will have free admission to the exhibition. For more information about the museum’s education programming, email info@brickstoremuseum.org or visit www.brickstoremuseum.org/education.

 

Conservation trust seeks

online auction donations

The Kennebunkport Conservation Trust is seeking donations for items or experiences for its online auction. According to a trust news release, suggested items are “handmade/handcrafted pieces, clothing, art, quirky/nostalgic vintage items, useful services, gift cards, one-of-a-kind experiences, gift baskets, jewelry, antique or estate items in good condition, historical items and gifts that will enrich the lives of our community members.”

All donations are needed by Nov. 22. The auction will take place at the end of November. For more information or to coordinate drop off of items, contact Heather Magaw at hmagaw@kporttrust.org or 207-967-3465.

All proceeds benefit Kennebunkport Conservation Trust preservation efforts.

 

South Church

Chime Choir concert

The fall concert by the South Church Chime Choir is scheduled for Sunday, Nov. 17 at 3 p.m. at South Congregational Church in Kennebunkport. The program will feature popular songs and light classical music.

The director and Chime Choir members will engage the audience with demonstrations and explanations about the musical selections.

The concert is free and open to the public. South Congregational Church is located at 2 North St. in Kennebunkport (near the Post Office) and is handicap-accessible.

 

Fitness class

for adults

Arundel Parks and Recreation Department will host a low impact fitness class for adults. The class is scheduled for 10 a.m. to noon on Tuesdays throughout November.

The class will feature aerobics, weights, balancing and stretching. Participants can be seated or standing and modifications can be made for any exercise. The goal is to increase energy, strength, and improve balance, all while making new friends. Organizers say the class will strive to combat isolation and make physical activity a part life. The program is sponsored by Kennebunk Savings.

For more information, contact Kristin at Arundel Parks and Recreation at 207-286-9241 or recprogrammer@arundelmaine.org. To register, visit arundelrec.com.

 

Maine Made Craft Fair

in Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport Historical Society announced the return of the Maine Made Craft Fair on Friday and Saturday, Dec. 6-7. The fair, according to a news release, will take place at White Columns, “the society’s historic mansion, offering the perfect setting for visitors to experience the beauty and craftsmanship of Maine-made goods.”

The event will showcase a curated selection of local artisans, featuring photography and textiles to jewelry, handcrafted goods, and literature.

The event is scheduled for 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 6-7. White Columns is located 8 Maine St., Kennebunkport.

Interested vendors can apply starting Oct. 1, on a first-come, first-serve basis. Spaces are limited to 12 spots For more information or to reserve a space, visit www.kporths.com or contact the Kennebunkport Historical Society at khaight@kporths.com or 207-967-2751.

 

Meals on Wheels

seeks drivers

Meals on Wheels of York County is in need of volunteer drivers. According to a Southern Maine Agency on Aging press release, the commitment is 1 to 2 hours, once a week. Volunteers are reimbursed for gas and clients, say organizers, are always glad to see the drivers.

Those interested should contact the Southern Maine Agency on Agency at 207-396-6500.

 

York County Amateur

Radio Club meetings

The York County Amateur Radio Club meets on the first Sunday of each month from September to June. The meetings begin at 2:45 p.m. at the Wells town offices at 208 Sanford Road.

All are welcome and membership is open to all. A ham radio license is not required. The club promotes amateur radio knowledge, offers educational programs, and organizes special events. For more information, visit w1yca.org.

 

Legion Post 159

meeting schedule

Monthly meetings of American Legion Post 159 are held on the first Thursday of the month. Upcoming meeting dates: Dec. 5. Dates for 2025 are Jan. 2, Feb. 6, March 6, April 3, May 1, June 5, July 3, Aug. 7, Sept. 4, Oct. 2, Nov. 6 and Dec. 4.

All veterans and Sons of the American Legion are welcomed to attend. Legion Post 169 is located at 102 Main St. (across from the police station) in Kennebunkport. For more information, call 207-967-2400.

 

Land trust nature

walk schedule

Kennebunk Land Trust released the dates for its Nature Walk series. The first Saturday of each month, the land trust hosts a nature walk on a different preserve following a different theme. Participants are invited to explore a new local preserve and enjoy nature in all seasons.

The walks are led by local Maine Guides and master naturalists, who take participants through the nature preserve and share knowledge and ask questions about the flora, fauna, and nature.

The walks are free of charge for all ages and held from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Donations are accepted and well-behaved dogs are welcome. The schedule:

• Dec. 7 – For All Forever Preserve

The 2024 walk schedule is subject to change with notice. For more information and to register, visit kennebunklandtrust.org.

Kennebunk Savings and Southern Maine Health Care are sponsors of the events.

 

Legion Post 74
schedules meetings

American Legion Webber Lefebvre Post 74 in Kennebunk holds meetings on the first Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m. Legion Post 74 is located at 15 Water St.

Legion Post 74 is looking for new members. Legion Post 74 participates in the May Day and Memorial Day parades, flag retirement ceremonies with the Boy Scouts, furnishes a scholarship to the high school and participates in many other local activities and charities.

 

Amateur Radio Society
meets at The New School

The New England Radio Discussion Society meets biweekly on Tuesdays at 7 p.m. throughout the year at The New School in Kennebunk. The club informally gathers to support and promote amateur (ham) radio. Wide-ranging discussion topics include: early and contemporary equipment, digital technology, internet integration, and striving for international contacts. Most meetings include a tech talk by a society member.

Those interested in amateur radio are invited to join. The New School is located at 38 York St. in Kennebunk. For more information, contact Alex at 207-967-8812.

 

Astro Society
hosts star parties

The Astronomical Society of Northern New England has set its schedule for public Star Parties through August and invites the public to attend. The society operates its own observatory, the Talmage Observatory at Starfield, on Route 35, in West Kennebunk.

At the Star Parties, the public, as well as society members, are most invited to observe the heavens through club telescopes, as well as member telescopes. Stars, visible planets, and deep-sky objects can all be viewed. Experienced society members are on hand to guide the observing, explain what is being seen, and answer questions. There is no fee.

The Talmage Observatory at Starfield opens at 7:30 p.m. for the events. For directions, visit asnne.org/where-to-find-us.php.

The Astronomical Society of Northern New England is a local association of amateur astronomers that meets monthly at the New School in Kennebunk. Meetings are on the first Friday of each month. For more information, visit ASNNE.org.

 

Vets group offers

Wednesday coffee

Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 1044 has launched free-coffee Wednesdays to all veterans. Chapter 1044 is located at 508 Elm St. in Biddeford (basement of American Legion Post 26). Chapter meetings are held on the first Sunday of each month and begin at 1:30 p.m.

Those who served in the past, or are currently serving, are welcomed to the Wednesday coffee from 9 to 11 a.m. Veterans need simply to show military ID or wear an item that identifies their service, and the coffee is on Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 1044. Tables will be set up with board games and a veteran service officer will be available to answer questions on veterans’ benefits or to help file a claim for disability through the VA system. The service is also available to spouses of veterans.

For more information, contact Joseph Armstrong, chapter president, at 207-494-9287 or visit www.vva1004maine.org.

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