The town of Gorham announced it will soon transition to online permitting through SmartGov and will post a date when the program goes live.

According to a social media post from the town, SmartGov is an “easy-to-use online platform” that allows residents, contractors, and businesses to apply for permits online; track application status in real time; submit documents and make payments securely; and receive updates electronically.

The program is convenient access from any device in addition to faster processing and improved communication and is environmentally friendly, reducing paper waste, the town said.

The town’s website can be viewed at gorhammaine.gov.

Rotarians to hear Red Cross representative

A speaker from the American Red Cross will present a program when Westbrook-Gorham Rotary Club meets for lunch at 11:30 a.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 13, in the dining room at Westbrook Regional Vocational Center, 125 Stroudwater St., in Westbrook.

For more information, call Christine Johnson, club secretary, at 797-3747.

Visit mineral and gem museum

Gorham Parks and Recreation Department is offering a trip from 8:45 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Feb. 4 to the Maine Mineral and Gem Museum in Bethel.

The cost is $22 and includes transportation and admission ticket; lunch is not provided.

For more information or to sign up, call the Recreation Department at 222-1630.

Triad reminder

Kim Crabill of Hospice of Southern Maine will be the guest speaker when the Gorham, Westbrook and Windham Triad group meets from 11 a.m. to noon on Tuesday, Jan. 13, at the Gorham Police Department, 270 Main St., Gorham.

Triad is a collaboration of law enforcement, businesses and agencies that promote the safety and well-being of senior citizens.

50 years ago

The American Journal on Jan. 6, 1976, reported Sparky the Dog and nearly 100 people attended the open house of the new West Gorham Fire Station in December. Roland Foster and April Dyer won children’s prizes and a film about home safety was shown.