Events listed here are open to the public and sponsored by nonprofit groups unless otherwise noted. Press releases may be sent to Goings on, Gloucester Daily Times, 36 Whittemore St., Gloucester, MA 01930, sent via e-mail to gdt@gloucestertimes.com or faxed to 978-282-4397. Please include a contact person's name and telephone number and send at least two weeks prior to the event. The editorial department will do its best to run the announcement at least once prior to the event. Due to the volume of goings on listings received by the paper, listings are alternated once they run and the same listings are not printed every day.

Penny Sale

The Gloucester Emblem Club #339 will hold a penny sale fundraiser on Tuesday, Oct. 25, at 101 Atlantic Ave., back shore. Doors open at 6 p.m., the sale starts at 7:30 p.m. Proceeds support Emblem Club charitable organizations. Fresh baked goods and coffee will available. For more information, call 978-283-4288.

Greasy Pole fundraiser

The St. Peter's Fiesta Committee has established a fundraising account to accept donations ro rebuild the Greasy Pole, at the Cape Ann Savings Bank. Please note on your donation "Rebuild Greasy Pole Fund," and send to: The Cape Ann Savings Bank, P.O. Box 330, Gloucester, MA.; or to St. Peter's Fiesta Committee, P.O. Box 3105, Gloucester, MA 01930.

Yard sale

The Annisquam Exchange, 32 Leonard St., will hold an indoor end-of-the season yard sale Saturday, Oct. 29, 9 a.m. to noon. Proceeds benefit the Annisquam Exchange, a community based nonprofit organization. Call 978-281-0358.

Flu vaccine clinic

CVS will hold a Flu Clinic at the West Gloucester Trinitarian Congregational Church Fair at 488 Essex Ave., West Gloucester, 10 a.m. to noon, Saturday, Oct. 22. Most insurances will be accepted and the public is welcome.

Elks Halloween party

On Sunday, Oct. 23, the Elks CLub will hold a children's Halloween party, hosted by Leo and his cast of characters, from 4 to 6 p.m., with music, games, pizza and candy.Elks members and guests are invited; free of charge.

Fraternity Club meeting

On Wednesday, Nov. 2, at 7 p.m., the Gloucester Fraternity Club will hold an auxilliary meeting at 27 Webster St. Dinner will be served at 6 p.m. For reservations/information, call Barbara at 978-282-4704. Call Annette at 508-320-3788 for a ride. Plans for the Turkey Penny Sale and Holiday Party will be discussed.

Open Door Food Pantry

The Open Door Food Pantry, 28R Emerson Ave., provides free food assistance Monday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and 6 to 7 p.m.; Tuesday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Wednesday and Thursday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and 6 to 7 p.m.; and Friday, 10 a.m. to noon and 3 to 5 p.m. Valid ID required. Call 978-283-6776 or visit www.foodpantry.org.

Docksiders dinner concert

Gloucester United Methodist Church, 436 Washington St. will host a roast beef dinner and concert by The Docksiders on Saturday, Nov. 5, with two seatings, 4:30 and 7 p.m., and one concert at 5:45 p.m. Tickets are $15 adults/ $7.50 children under 12, on sale Sundays and Wednesdays, 9 a.m. to 12 noon, and Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Call 978-281-1040

Girls basketball

The CAYB Girls North Shore Travel Basketball Program will hold try-outs Oct. 19, in the Fuller School gym at these times:

Grades 5 and 6 — Registration at 6 p.m., followed by try-outs from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Grades 7 and 8 — Registration at 7 p.m., followed by try-outs from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m.

All players are required to attend one try-out; both are recommended. There will be a nonrefundable $5 try-out fee, which is valid for both dates. Contact Eric Lamoureux at ericlamoureux@comcast.net or 978-479-3261.

Harvest market

The Cape Ann Farmers Market will host a Thanksgiving Harvest Market on Saturday, Nov. 19, 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Gloucester Unitarian Universalist Church, corner of Middle and Church streets. More than 20 vendors will sell fresh produce, jams, baked goods, crafts, meats, cheeses and maple syrup. Visit www.CapeAnnFarmersMarket.org or call Nicole Bogin at 978-290-2717.

Cape Ann Referral Group

The Cape Ann Referral Group, a membership of local business networking and referrals, meets every other Wednesday at 7:30 a.m. at the Masonic Building on Eastern Avenue. Visit www.CapeAnnBiz.com.

Cape Ann Thrift Shop

Cape Ann Thrift Shop, 70 Middle St., is open Tuesday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The shop offers clothing for the whole family, linens, toys, jewelry and more. Donations of all types are appreciated.

Hospice needs volunteers

VNA Care Network & Hospice, a nonprofit home health care, hospice and wellness agency, needs volunteers to provide practical and emotional support to terminally-ill patients and their families on the North Shore and Cape Ann. Volunteers receive training, supervision and support. Call Nancy Barcelo at 1-888-663-3688, ext. 4271, visit www.vnacarenetwork.org, or call 1-800-728-1862.

S.H.I.N.E.

Seniors and low-income residents needing help with health insurance forms or information may see SHINE counselor Sefatia Romeo Theken at the Rose Baker Senior Center, Tuesdays, 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Call the Council on Aging at 978-281-9765 for an appointment.

Furniture annex

Second Glance Thrift Store Furniture Annex is open for shopping Wednesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Clean furniture donations are welcome Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Pick up available by appointment. Second Glance, a program of The Open Door, is located at 2 Pond Road in Gloucester. Call 978-283-4298 or visit www.foodpantry.org.

For the troops

These goods and services are always needed by the Gloucester Veterans Office.

Knitters wanted: The office has received requests from troops in Afghanistan and Iraq for hand or machine knit helmet liners, scarves, neck gaters and socks. Contact the office for specifics.

Goods needed: The office is accepting goods, including AT&T telephone cards and donations for mailing boxes to send to the troops, as well as military families in need of aid.

Knitters, yarn needed

Do you knit or crochet or know somebody who does? Would you like to give the gift of warmth to the diners at The Open Door Christmas dinner this holiday season? If so, contact Robin Carabin at 978-515 7556 or robin.carabin@yahoo.com to pledge to make a scarf or two.

Knitters, yarn needed

Do you knit or crochet or know somebody who does? Would you like to give the gift of warmth to the diners at The Open Door Christmas dinner this holiday season? If so, contact Robin Carabin at 978-515 7556 or robin.carabin@yahoo.com to pledge to make a scarf or two. Carabin is also looking for donated yarn (any amount will help). Between 125 and 150 scarves for men, women and children are needed.

S.H.I.N.E. presentation

On Tuesday, Oct. 18, at 10 a.m., the Rose Baker Senior Center hosts an important presentation prepared by S.H.I.N.E. (Serving Health Information Needs of Elders). Susan Cripps, Shine Manager of the Merrimack Valley, and Shine Counselor Sefatia Romeo-Theken (NEHS) offer updated information and changes in healthcare plans for seniors; Medicare options, including Part D Prescriptions Plans, and cost saving programs. This year's time for open enrollment or changes to your coverage is Oct. 15-Dec. 7. This important session prepares you with information about your options. Registration is recommended at 978 281-9765.

S.H.I.N.E. counseling

Following the S.H.I.N.E., presentation at 10 a.m. on Oct. 18, future appointments may be scheduled with SHINE Counselor Sefatia Romeo-Theken at the Rose Baker Senior Center or the Addison Gilbert Hospital. She will not be available at the senior center on Tuesdays, Oct. 4 and 11. From Tuesday, Oct. 25, through Tuesday, Dec. 6, she will be available 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (by appointment only) at the senior center. From Oct. 19, through Dec. 7, appointments will be required for counseling at Addison Gilbert on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.

Seacoast fair

Seacoast Nursing and Rehab center hosts its annual holiday fair on Saturday, Nov. 19, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and rental tables are available to vendors. Raffles for prizes include donations from local restaurants, businesses, shops, and theaters. Anyone wishing to donate gift certificates or rent a table to help this event help Seacoast, please contact Abigail Boyd at 978 283 0300 ext 124, or email: Abigail.Boyd@kindredhealthcare.com

Pathways fundraiser

On Wednesday, Oct. 26, enjoy great food for at great cause at Main Street's Jalapenos Authentic Mexican Restaurant. 10% of all proceeds for the evening benefit Pathways for Children. Reservations at are recommended, and your support is greatly appreciated! FOr more information, call Pathways at 978-281-2400.

Author talk

The Gloucester Lyceum and Sawyer Free Library hosts author Andre Dubus 111 discussing his book 'The Garden of Last Days,' on Thursday, Oct. 20, at 7 p.m. on the main floor. This program is free and open to the public. For more information, call 978-281-9763.

Scary Science

Learn about the gooey, icky, yucky science of slime when the Sawyer Free Children's Library explores the chemistry of polymer, creating slime in the spirit of Halloween. Children grades 3 — 5 should register for this fun event, October 18th at 1 p.m., in the Children's Library at the Sawyer Free, 8 Dale Ave. Lego Club

Lego my lego!

Children ages 6+ are welcome to join us in the children's Library at the Sawyer Free for another session of our popular Lego Club on Monday, Oct. 24, at 3:30 p.m. while we hunker down and build some haunted houses! PLease drop by the Children's Library for required registration.

Halloween with a Heart

Thursday, Oct. 27, children ages 3-6 are welcome to join storyteller Lucille LePage at 10 a.m. for good spirited fun, stories and songs to make you shiver, wonder, and laugh, in the Childrens' Library at the Sawyer Free Library, 8 Dale Ave.

Halloween Crafts

Kids of all ages are free to get creative at a Halloween craft workshop at the Sawyer Free Library on Saturday, Oct. 29, at 10:30 a.m.

Medication disposal

The Gloucester Medication Disposal, sponsored by Healthy Gloucester Collaborative, hosting a community medication disposal event, Saturday, Oct. 29, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., in conjunction with the U.S. Department of Justice Drug Enforcement Administration Annual Prescription Drug Take-Back Day. Please bring all mediations to the parking lot of Rose Baker Senior Center, 6 Manuel F. Lewis St.

Senior Art

Juni VanDyke's senior art sessions meet on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday each week, at the Rose Baker Senior Center, starting at 10 a.m. Currently ongoing is the Community of Neighborhoods Banner (fabric art) Project. For more information, call Juni at 978 281-9765.

Fun at Foxwoods!

The COA's senior away day to Foxwoods Casino is scheduled for Nov. 14, coach departing the Rose Baker Senior Center at 6 a.m. and returning around 7:30 p.m. For more information or to sign up, call the COA at 978-281-9765.

Let's walk!

Because of the great health benefits of regular walking, watch for the date for the COA 'Keep Moving Walking Group.' All are welcome to join the 'Walking Club Leader Training' at the Rose Baker Senior Center on Thursday, Oct. 20, 9 a.m. — 1 p.m. with trainer Ed Pomfred — Keep Moving Program Director— in charge, for no charge, and a light lunch provided. Registration is required with the COA; at 978 281-9765.

Senior computers

Eight-weeks of fall computer sessions are underway at the Rose Baker Senior Center in the following: Levels I & II, Introduction to Windows 7, Digital Photography, Photo Club, Internet and E-Mail, Genealogy and special classes on Excel. For information, or to sign up for the next sessions, call 978 281-9765, and leave your name and contact information.

Relay for Life

Relay for Life's 'Team Friends for Friends' has organized a bus trip fundraiser to Mohegan Sun, leaving Gloucester High School on Oct. 23, promptly at 7 a.m. and returning around 7 p.m. Cost is $30, including bus, food voucher, and free play coupons. For more information, call Debbie Aiello at 978-283-0633.

Brown Bag Day

The Rose Baker Senior Center will hold a brown bag food distribution on Friday, Oct. 28, starting at 10 a.m., for qualified recipients.

Vision Group

On Thursday, Oct. 20, the New Vision Group meets at 10 a.m. at the Rose Baker Senior Center for programming followed by lunch. New members are welcome to join this special group. For more information, call the COA at 978 281-9765.

Insurance presentation

The COA offers seniors an informational insurance session on Thursday, Oct. 27, at 10 a.m. at the Rose Baker Senior Center. Compare Blue/Cross Blue/Shield plan, learn from Senior Plan Consultant, Heather Hurd how Medigap plans and Medicare Advantage plans work with Medicare, and the differences between choosing a Medigap or Medicare Advantage plan.

Crafters wanted

The annual Rockport PTO holiday fair is looking for crafters for the Nov. 19 event. Space fills up quickly and is limited. To reserve an eight-foot table, contact Amy Kamm at 978-546-5138 or ajkamm93@gmail.com.

Health aide training

Action Inc., 180 Main St., offers a six-week Home Health Aide Training Program starting in October, Monday-Friday, 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. Learn the skills necessary to get a job as a home aide, caring for the elderly and/or disabled in their homes, get resume preparation, job searches and placement assistance. Call 978-281-7402 or e-mail pbongiorno@actioninc.org. Visit www.actioninc.org.

Senior sewing

The Council on Aging has a new program for seniors needing alterations and mending, at a lower cost for seniors by an experienced seamstress. Call the Senior Center at 978-281-9765.

Entrepreneurial resource

SCORE, a resource partner of the Small Business Administration, offers free business advice and resource information to prospective and existing business owners at Cape Ann Business Incubator (CABI), 33 Commercial St. every Tuesday. SCORE's accredited counselors help develop a business plan, test a new idea or determine the best solution to a problem. For more information, call 978-282-7779, or visit www.scorenemass.org.

The Clothes Closet

The Clothes Closet, in the basement of St. Ann School, corner of Prospect and Pleasant streets, is open Wednesday from 6 to 8 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The Clothes Closet is made possible through the volunteer efforts of the St. Vincent de Paul Society of Holy Family Parish. Proceeds benefit local families in need. Call 978-283-7391.

Counseling for veterans

Many veterans experience difficulty in adjusting to problems in civilian life after serving in combat. The Lowell Vet Center offers counseling at the Gloucester Veterans Center for area veterans and their families, free of charge. For an appointment, call the Gloucester Office of Veterans' Services at 978-281-9740.

Docksider coffee house

The annual Docksider Halloween coffee house is Saturday, Oct. 22, 7 p.m., in the Gloucester High School cafeteria. Coffee, tea, hot chocolate, assorted cold beverages and baked goods will be available. Admission is $5 at the door, free for students. Proceeds benefit the band's trip to play at Disney World and Sea World in April 2012.

Healthy Streets Program

Northeast Behavioral Health (NBH) Healthy Streets Outreach Program provides HIV testing, hepatitis C information, access to drug treatment, overdose prevention and Narcan training. All services, provided by NBH Healthy Streets Program, are available at Gloucester Family Health Center, 302 Washington St., Gloucester, lower level, Wednesdays, noon to 5 p.m. Call 978-236-0251.

Isabel Babson Memorial Library

Isabel Babson Memorial Library, 69 Main St., is open Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Named for Gloucester's first midwife, the library's books feature all aspects of family life including maternity, child care and women's health. The collection is updated monthly. All are welcome to browse. Call 978-283-5624.

Senior Day Care

The Council on Aging sponsors Social Day Care sessions with supervised activities and programs three days a week, for seniors who are homebound and isolated, at the Rose Baker Senior Center, from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Daily lunch and snacks are included. Transportation is provided by CATA. Call 978-281-9765, ext. 20.

YOGA for seniors

The Gloucester Council on Aging provides gentle mat yoga sessions Tuesdays at 10 a.m., chair yoga on Wednesday at 12:15 p.m., and Thursday yoga at 10 a.m. each week at the Rose Baker Senior Center. Call 978-281-9765.

Handyman for seniors

The Council on Aging has a new handyman, a retired carpenter, available to help Gloucester and Rockport seniors with inside and outside work at a reduced cost. To make an appointment, call the Rose Baker Senior Center at 978-281-9765 and leave your contact information and a brief description of the work needed.

Bay View Brotherhood

On the second Tuesday of every month, Bay View Brotherhood Club Inc. holds a meeting at Brotherhood Club Hall, 889 Washington St., at 7 p.m.

Rotary Club

Every Tuesday, the Rotary Club meets at 12:15 p.m. at Cruiseport Gloucester.

CAMEN group

Cape Ann Gay and Bi Men, a discussion group, meets every Monday (except holidays) at the Community Center, 67 Middle St., from 7 to 9 p.m. The group plans other social events. Call Brian King at 978-927-4506, ext. 219 or visit www.gbmhp.org.

Homebound services

Sawyer Free Library offers homebound services for residents who need them. Books (large print or regular), magazines, CDs and audio books may be delivered on a monthly basis. Call Cindi at 978-281-9763, ext. 24.

SeniorCare nutrition

SeniorCare serves lunch daily at the senior luncheon centers at 11:30 a.m., Monday through Friday. A $2 donation is requested. For reservations, call the Rose Baker Senior Center at 978-281-0081, Sheedy Park at 978-281-5128 or McPherson Park at 978-283-3141. Meals on Wheels are also available. Call 978-281-1750.

Food stamp screening

The Open Door Food Pantry provides food stamps eligibility screenings with a trained outreach coordinator. To make an appointment, call 978-283-6776, ext. 201. Visit www.foodpantry.org.

Trivia night

The Rotary Club of Gloucester will host a trivia night fundraiser on Friday, Oct. 21, at the Gloucester House Restaurant. Doors open at 6 p.m., game starts at 7 p.m., with teams of four ($100 per team) competing for the title of Cape Ann Trivia Champions and take the Trivia Trophy home for a year! All proceeds go to the Gloucester Rotary Club Scholarship Fund, and the evening includes a cash bar, snacks and a 50/50 raffle. Register online at: www.gloucesterrotary.org/ — or make your tax-deductible prepaid reservation check payable to: Gloucester Rotary Foundation Fund, mailed to: Gloucester Rotary Club, PO Box 1228, Gloucester MA, 01930.

Holiday meal baskets

The Open Door Food Pantry needs help providing holiday meal baskets to local families. A donation of $25 provides a turkey, potatoes, butternut squash, apples, stuffing, cranberry and more. Please make checks payable to: The Open Door, and write "turkey" in the memo line. 28 Emerson Ave., Gloucester, MA 01930. The Open Door serves residents of Gloucester, Rockport, Manchester, Essex and Ipswich. To donate online, visit: www.foodpantry.org.

Halloween hop!

Veterans' Memorial School's family Halloween Hop gets hopping Friday, Oct. 28, from 6 to 8 p.m. Enjoy snacks, drinks, crafts, games, costumes. $15 family cap. Parents must accompany all children.

Halloween dance

On Saturday, Oct. 29, Veterans' Memorial School PTO holds its Halloween fundraiser dance from 6:30 to midnight at the D.E.S. Club, 133 Prospect St. Tickets are $20 at the door, or $100 for a table of eight, for music, dancing, food, fun, and more. Cash bar. Call Bethany Sherlock at 978-360-4034.

Skeptics in The Pub

This month's meeting of Cape Ann Skeptics in the Pub is Oct. 18, with Mary Bowles presenting a program based on the book 'Outliers' by Malcolm Gladwell, which explores the stories of uber-successful people. Why so some succeed more than others? Join in the discussion at the Dog Bar, 65 Main St., gathering at 6 p.m. for program starting at 6:45 p.m.

Writer's Block

Cape Ann TV channel 12's next 'The Writer's Block' airs Oct. 20, at 8 p.m. with John Ronan interviewing Henry Allen, founder of the new Cape Ann Theater Works (The 'Annie'). A director, performer, visual artist, and writer, Allen discusses his career and how the death of his young son from cancer influenced and inspired it. A former Gloucester Poet Laureate. Ronan welcomes program suggestions and limerick Contest entries to: 'The Writer's Block with John Ronan,' Box 5524, Gloucester, MA 01930.

Absentee voting

Absentee voting for the Nov. 8 election is now open at the City Clerk's Office at City Hall. Any registered voter not able to make it to the polls on Election Day may come in and vote from now until noon on Monday, Nov. 7. Mail-in requests for ballots are also accepted. When mailing a request, include your name, voting address, mailing address (if different), date of birth, phone number/e-mail and signature, and a ballot will be promptly mailed. The mailing address is: City Hall, Attn: Registrar, 9 Dale Ave., Gloucester, MA 01930.

Peace fest

In celebration of love, peace and tolerance, the Unitarian Universalist Society of Rockport sponsors a September Peace Fest, which Cape Ann TV Channel 12 will air in a special production on Saturday, Oct. 22, at 8 p.m. Art, music, song, dance, drama, poetry, puppetry, story telling, and children's activities all feature in this program, with performers including Steve Marchena, Joanne LaPlant and Mary McCarthy, Angela Masciale, Livin' on Luk, T Max, Amy Lohman & Friends, and the Cape Ann Big Band.

Halloween Party

On Sunday, Oct. 30, from 2 to 4 p.m., there will be a free kids Halloween party outdoors in the parking lot behind KidsUnlimited, Local Colors, Harbor Goods and Island Art & Hobby. (entrance on Hancock Street). Kids can join in games, activities, music, and dance with Dawn Koller. There'll be costume prizes, treats and a fab time for Gloucester trick 'r Treaters of all ages. For more information, or to volunteer, call Christine at 978-281-4350.

Docksiders comedy

The Docksider's First Annual Comedy Show is Nov. 10 at Bass Rocks Elks Club, Atlantic Ave., hosted by Hank Morse of 105.7 WROR Loren and Wally show, and starring comedian Tony V, with Artie Januario and Graig Murphy. Doors open at 7 p.m. for 7:30 p.m. show. Tickets are $20 in advance at Virgilio's, Jeff's Variety, Christine's Variety, Annisquam Auto Body, the Depot Restaurant — or email: sales@take1promos.com. Raffles and door prizes. All proceeds benefit the Docksider's trip to play at DisneyWorld and SeaWorld in Florida in April 2012

Look Good, feel better

The American Cancer Society is hosting a cosmetics workshop for women on Wednesday, Oct. 19, from 10 a.m. to noon, at Addison Gilbert Hospital, 298 Washington St., with a volunteer cosmetologist teaching make-up and skin care techniques to overcome effects of chemotherapy and radiation. Learn to disguise hair loss with wigs, scarves and other accessories, and receive a gift make-up kit valued at over $200. Call Cancer Services 978-922-3000, ext. 3087.

Cheerleaders Halloween party

GHS Cheerleaders will host a "Halloween Costume Night" at the Azorean Restaurant, on Tuesday, Oct. 25, from 4 to 10 p.m. The best costume wins a $50 gift card! Partial proceeds from the evening will benefit the Varsity and JV cheerleaders!

Medication Management

Registered Pharmacist Maureen Hobin from Addison and Beverly hospitals will be guest speaker at the Rose Baker Senior Center on Wednesday, Oct. 26, 10 to 11 a.m., addressing issues related to "Medication Management." The event is free, but pre-registration is requested. Call Rose Baker at 978-281-9765.

Showing at NSAA

The North Shore Arts Association is showing the work of portrait and landscape artist Dianne Panarelli Miller's in the Gordon Grant Room through Oct. 23. Miller has received many local and national awards and is represented in many fine galleries and private collections. She is a signature member of the New England Plein Air Painters, is a "Copley Master" at the Copley Society in Boston, a member of the Portrait Society of America and Oil Painters of America. To see her work, visit: www.diannepmiller.com.

Small works exhibit

Marblehead artist Catherine Landergan is showing "Small Works" through Oct. 23, in the hallway of the first floor gallery at the North Shore Arts Association. A traditional draftsman, Ms. Landergan learned to paint through apprenticeships with renowned oil painters Stapleton Kearns, David Curtis and Tom Ouellette, and has exhibited throughout New England. For more information, call 978-283-1857 or visit: www.nsarts.org.

Blood Pressure clinics

Blood Pressure Screenings are held each Monday from 1-3 PM at Addison Gilbert Hospital, 298 Washington Street, in Women's Health. All are welcome to attend this free screening. Screenings are not held on holidays that fall on Mondays.

Food stamp screening

The Open Door Food Pantry provides food stamps eligibility screenings with a trained outreach coordinator. To make an appointment, call 978-283-6776, ext. 201. Visit www.foodpantry.org.

Parent support group

Cape Ann Families offers a free parent support and education group weekly (ongoing throughout the year) for all parents and caregivers. Parent Connection meets Fridays, 10 to 11:30 a.m., at 29 Emerson Ave. Child care and transportation are provided. Call 978-281-7856 for more information, or drop in.

SeniorCare services

SeniorCare Inc. offers elder services in Beverly, Gloucester, Essex, Hamilton, Ipswich, Manchester, Rockport, Topsfield and Wenham. For more information, call the Intake and Referral Department at 978-281-1750 or toll free at 1-866-927-1050. SeniorCare is a Massachusetts Aging Services Access Point and federally designated Area Agency on Aging. Visit www.seniorcareinc.org.

Recovery programs

A variety of recovery programs meets weekly in Gloucester.

Daily — Early Bird recovery meetings, 7 to 8 a.m., Mondays through Sundays, First Baptist Church, 38 Gloucester Ave. Open discussions.

Monday — Alcoholics Anonymous 12 Steps to Freedom, 7 to 8:30 p.m., Veterans' Center, 12 Emerson Ave.

Tuesday — AA for young people, 7 to 8 p.m., Trinity Congregational Church, 70 Middle St. Open speaker discussion.

Wednesday — AA speaker meeting, Fish City Group, St. John's Episcopal Church, Middle Street, 7 to 8 p.m. 508-957-4690.

Friday — Al-Anon Family Group, 7:30 to 8:45 p.m., First Baptist Church, 38 Gloucester Ave.

Saturday — Alcoholics Anonymous "Saturday and Sober" meeting, 9:30 to 11 a.m., Trinity Congregational Church, Middle Street. Open speaker, discussion. Nonsmoking; AA discussion group, 10 to 11:15 a.m., Easler Building, 23 Duncan St.; AA meeting, Union Congregational Church, Magnolia, 8 to 9 p.m.; AA Open Big Book/discussion, nonsmoking, 8 to 9:30 p.m., St. John's Church, 48 Middle St.

Republican City Committee

The Gloucester Republican City Committee meets on the last Thursday of each month, 7 p.m., at 101 Western Ave. Call Luke Noble at 978-394-1648.

Cribbage group

The Magnolia Cribbage Group meets every Wednesday for 10 weeks at 7:15 p.m. at the Patio restaurant, Lexington Avenue. The prepaid fee is $40 and includes dinner and prizes on the 11th week. Registration on the first night is at 6:45 p.m. Beginners, intermediate and advanced players welcome. Call 978-526-8550 or e-mail rogerdinapoli@msn.com. Camron cribbers are welcome.

Adult Education

Action Inc's Adult Basic Education classes are on Mondays and Wednesdays, 6 to 8:30 p.m. at Action's main offices, 80 Main St. Classes include reading, writing, math, work skills and referrals to support services as needed. Call 978-282-1000 or visit www.actioninc.org.

Radio Association

The Cape Ann Amateur Radio Association is sponsoring a one day preparation course for those wishing to earn the FCC Technician Class Amateur Radio License, on Saturday, Oct. 29, at 8 a.m., at the Lanesville Community Center, Vulcan St. The Technician license exam will be given at the end of the day. For more information, sign up with course leader Stan Stone at: techinaday@caara.net. And visit: www.caara.net.

Legion Post open

The Capt. Lester S. Wass American Legion Post 3 opens its lounge for members and guests, Monday through Friday, noon to 9 p.m.; Saturday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Parent support group

Cape Ann Families offers a free parent support and education group twice weekly (ongoing throughout the year) for all parents and caregivers. Parent Connection meets Fridays, 10 to 11:30 a.m., at 29 Emerson Ave. Child care and transportation are provided. Call 978-281-7856 for more information, or drop in.

Blue Star Banner

Capt. Lester S. Wass Post 3, American Legion, honors military personnel by presenting the parents of anyone on active duty with a Blue Star Banner. These banners may be obtained by calling 978-283-9710. Leave your name and telephone number and a representative will return your message.

GED preparation

The Compass Youth Program offers GED preparation for ages 16 to 21, through Action Inc. on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., throughout the summer. Call 978-281-9682.

NAMI support groups

NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) hosts recovery support groups for persons suffering depression or other brain disorders and their families on the first Wednesday of each month from 7 to 8:30 p.m. and third Thursdays from 2:30 to 4 p.m. at 43 Gloucester Ave. Call 978-281-1557, e-mail namicapeann@comcast.net or visit www.namicapeann.org.

Entrepreneurial seminar

Cape Ann Business Incubator's Center for Entrepreneurial Development holds free lunchtime workshops for business owners and entrepreneurs every Wednesday, noon to 1 p.m., at 33 Commercial St. Topics include an introduction to bookkeeping, financial management, how to secure financing and more. To RSVP, call Desmond at 978-540-9977, ext. 101.

Military families

Gloucester military family members may call the Gloucester Office of Veterans' Services at 978-281-9740 to register their active-duty family members. Military members' names will be announced during upcoming city ceremonies.

Walking Club

The Rose Baker Senior Center is starting a walking club and needs a volunteer leader. Free training will prepare leaders on recruiting walkers to join the club, and understanding the benefits of walking. Call 978-281-9765.

Volunteers needed

SeniorCare Inc. seeks volunteers to deliver Meals on Wheels in East Gloucester on Tuesdays and, or Wednesdays. Call 978-281-1750.