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Writers Center
The Gloucester Writers Center's holds its first annual meeting on Thursday, May 17, at 3 p.m., at 126 East Main St. (parking across the street). A slide show of the annual report will soon be available in electronic form at: www.gloucesterwriters.org. For more information go to the web-site or call Annie Thomas at 978-283-7738.
Summer & Smoke
Theatre in the Pines kicks off its 25th year with Tennessee Williams' "Summer and Smoke," starting Thursday at 7:30 p.m. and running for three nights with a Sunday matinee at 3 p.m. at Spiran Hall in Rockport. This sizzling southern love story is an American classic, a great showcase for our local theater talents, and a great choice to commemorate the 25th year of Nan Webber's troupe. Tickets are available at the door or in advance at Toad Hall Bookstore in Rockport and The Bookstore in Gloucester.
I Hate Hamlet
Cape Ann Shakespeare Troupe presents its final season production, "I Hate Hamlet" a comedy by Paul Rudnick, directed by Ray Jenness, and featuring the trevails of Andrew Rally, a TV actor who has been offered the part of Hamlet with N.Y.'s Shakespeare In The Park Company. At once attracted by the challenge and afraid of it, he finds himself living in an apartment once occupied by John Barrymore, famous for his Hamlet, and when Barrymore's ghost is summoned at a seance, the laughs begin! "I Hate Hamlet" plays May 25, 26, 27 and June 1, 2, 3 at The Cape Ann (The Annie), 1 Washington St. (corner of Main). Tickets, $15; student, $10; under 19, $5, are available at the door or online at: cast2008@prodigy .net. For more information, visit: capeannshakespearetroupe.blogspot.com and Facebook.
Seafood Retirees
The Seafood Retirees will meet at 1 p.m. at the Rose Baker Senior Center on Monday, May 21, all members are encouraged to attend.
Cemetery meeting
The Oak Grove Cemetery Trustees meeting of the Proprietors of Oak Grove Cemetery is Wednesday, May 30, at 3:30 p.m. at the Cape Ann Savings Bank, Investment Dept., 3rd floor board room, 109 Main St., Gloucester. For more information, call Mary Rudolph Black at 978-283-1219.
Chow Down!
Mark your calendar with dog bone, and head to Cape Ann Brewery, 11 Rogers St. on May 22, from 4 p.m. to closing, for a Chow Down fundraiser in support of the Gloucester Dog Park. Join the 50/50 raffle and/or purchase one of our signature bandanas. A portion of all sales go to the dog park, and one lucky person will walk away with our custom made dog goodie basket!
Beauty & Botany!
The Trustees of Reservations in Cape Ann welcomes botanist and Gloucester native Rick Davis, presenting his "look 'n learn" program, "Lady's Slipper—Beauty & Botany," on Thursday, May 24, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., at Ravenswood Park. Recommended for kids ten years and older, this is one wonderful way to learn about these unique, delicate orchids in their own natural habitat. Meet at Ravenswood parking area; free to members, $5 for nonmembers.
Look good, feel better
The American Cancer Society's "Look Good, Feel Better" free program will be held on Wednesday, June 20, from 10 a.m. 12 p.m. at Addison Gilbert Hospital, 298 Washington St, Gloucester. Guided by volunteer cosmetologist, female cancer patients undergoing chemo and radiation learn make-up, skin care, wig and accessory techniques to disguise hair loss loss and other effects of treatments; and participants take home a make-up kit valued at over $200! To register, call Community Relations at 978-236-1650.
Fair Housing
Learn your legal rights under current Federal and State Fair Housing Laws on Thursday, May 24, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at a free informational session sponsored by the City of Gloucester, Grants Division, and the Fair Housing Center of Greater Boston. Maritime Gloucester. The event will be held at 23 Harbor Loop, Gloucester, and coffee and pastries will be sevred courtey of TD Bank. To register, email your name, address, phone number and organization to: sshea@gloucester-ma.gov, or call 978-282-8003.
Endangered whales
NOAA Fisheries will sponsor a free lecture on Thursday, May 17, from 7 to 9 p.m. with David Wiley, research coordinator for the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary, speaking on the underwater behavior and conservation of endangered whales. Dr. Wiley will discuss how his on-going research reveals how endangered humpback and right whales live and intersect with human activity. The lecture will be enhanced by whale- related art work submitted by Cape Ann elementary and middle school students, and the program will be held at NOAA Fisheries Service, 55 Great Republic Ave. Gloucester. For more information, call Olivia Rugo at 978-675-2167.
Madonna del Rosario
The Madonna del Rosario Society will hold a Mother's Day meeting/brunch at the Glouester House Restaurant on Saturday, May 19, at 11 a.m.; brunch served at 11:30 a.m. For tickets, call Marie at 978-283-7820. A mass for living and deceased members will be held ater that day at 4 p.m. at St. Ann Church, Holy Family Parish. All members should wear their medals.
Customer Appreciation Day
In celebration of BankGloucester's 125th anniversary you're invited to drop by the bank at 160 Main St., on Friday, May 25, to enjoy refreshments and enter a free drawing in the lobby from 8:30 am to 6 p.m. For more information about this free event, call 978-283-8200.
Neuropathy support
On Saturday, May 19, the North Shore Neuropathy Support Group hosts Neurologist Timothy R. Kelliher, M.D., presenting "Neuropathy: A Timely Update." Dr. Kelliher is Chief of Neurology, Director Stroke Program at Northeast Health System, received his training from B.U. School of Medicine, his residency at the Neurological Unit of Boston City Hospital and was a clinical and research fellow at the Department of Neurology at MA General Hospital in Boston. This lecture is free, and will be held in the Lecture Hall at the Beverly Hospital, 85 Herrick Street, Beverly from 10 a.m. to 12 noon. Family members are welcome and pre-registration is not required.
Author night
On Tuesday, May 15, at 7 p.m. the Cape Ann Museum presents an evening with New York Times bestselling author Mark Kurlansky, as co-hosts in the Gloucester Lyceum author series, "Behind the Page: Words Beyond Words." Kurlansky's "Birdseye: The Adventures of a Curious Man" follow his other best-sellers, "Cod," "Salt," and "Fish Tales" in the New England niche he continues to explore. Reservations are required; call 978-283-0455.
Jewish heritage
Sawyer Free Library's Matz Gallery is exhibiting artist Jacqueline Cooper's series of 18 framed multimedia prints that portray an historical and cultural timeline of Jewish life in Europe, from May 18 to June 30. "Follow the Thread," The multimedia prints portray an historical and cultural timeline of Jewish life in Eastern Europe, immigration to New York's Lower East Side, and the challenges Jews faced as they developed the ready-to-wear garment industry in America. The exhibit is free and open to the public.
Vintage fashion
On Sunday, May 20, from 3 to 5 p.m., The Annie presents "Follow the Thread," a Vintage Fashion Show at the Cape Ann Theatre, featuring multigenerational models from the Gloucester community modeling garments representative of the timeline portrayed in the "Follow the Thread" exhibit at the library. This event is free and open to the public.
Children's Library
On Tuesday, May 29, the Children's Library at the Sawyer Free Library presnts "Science with Lisa," at 3:30 p.m. This science club is for second- through fifth-graders. Please register in the Children's Library, or call 978-281-9763 x18.
Lego Club
On Thursday, May 31, from 3:30 to 5 p.m. the Lego Club will meet in the Children's Library at Sawyer Free Library. This program is for kids ages 6 and up. Please register in the Children's Library, or call 978-281-9763 x18.
Titanic display
In commemoration of the 100th anniversary of the sinking of the S.S. Titanic, the Children's Library is exhibiting a "Titanic Display," including rare books, movie memorabilia, authentic replicas of Titanic dinnerware, and several signatures and pictures of the survivors at a 1987 Titanic Historic Society Convention. The collection is graciously on loan from Ed Hanson.
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.
Babson 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 x24.
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's 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.
Republican 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.
Greasy Pole fund
The St. Peter's Fiesta Committee has a fundraising account to accept donations to rebuild the Greasy Pole, at the Cape Ann Savings Bank. Please note on your donation "Rebuild Greasy Pole Fund," and send to: Cape Ann Savings Bank, P.O. Box 330, Gloucester, MA 01930; or to St. Peter's Fiesta Committee, P.O. Box 3105, Gloucester, MA 01930.
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.
Learn to Cope
Learn to Cope, a confidential support group for parents and caregivers struggling with a member of the family who is addicted to opiates or other drugs (opiates include heroin, Oxycontin, Vicodin, Percocet, etc.) meets every Tuesday, 7 to 9 p.m., at Gloucester Family Health Center, 302 Washington St., lower level. Call 508-801-3247 or visit www.learn2cope.org. Sponsored by the Healthy Gloucester Collaborative.
SCORE program
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., third floor (side entrance), every Tuesday. Using a three-person team approach, SCORE's accredited counselors help develop a business plan, test the potential of a new business idea or determine the best solution to a business problem. Visit www.scorenemass.org or call 978-282-7779 to make an appointment.
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.
GHS building project
The Gloucester High School Carpentry/Electrical shops are accepting applications for a house building project for the 2012-2103 school year. Contact Jack Andrewes at GHS or at jandrewes@gloucester.k12.ma.us.
Narcotics Anonymous
Gloucester meetings of Narcotics Anonymous are as follows:
"Together We Can" meets Sundays, 7 to 8 p.m., Unitarian Universalist Church, corner of Pine and Church streets.
"Living Clean" meets Wednesdays, 7:30 to 9 p.m., Unitarian Universalist Church, corner of Pine and Church streets.
"Keeping It Real" meets Thursdays, 7:30 to 9 p.m. 5 Center St.
"Fishing for Recovery" meets Fridays, 7 to 8:30 p.m., Unitarian Universalist Church, corner of Pine and Church streets.
For more meeting times, visit www.NewEnglandNA.org or call 1-866-624-3578.
Arthritis program
The Council on Aging is sponsoring the Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program "Life Improvement Series" at the Rose Baker Senior Center on Monday mornings, from 10:15 to 11:15 a.m. This 12-week series is free and is offered by Carol Pallazolla, who is trained by the Arthritis Foundation. To sign up, call 978 281-9765.
Senior art
The Council on Aging art program at the Rose Baker Senior Center is led by art instructor Juni VanDyke. For information about the ongoing weekly art projects on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays, at 10 a.m., call 978-281-9765.
Adventure series
This Schooner Adventure lecture will be held Thursday, May 17, 7 p.m., in the Friend Room, Sawyer Free Library: Thomas French, Ph.D., assistant director, Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program, "Protecting Biodiversity on Northeast Massachusetts." The series is supported by Cape Ann Insurance Agency Inc. and VarianSEA, and sponsored by Gloucester Adventure. Call 978-281-8079 or email info@schooner-adventure.org.
Reiki for seniors
Reiki masters Dianna Porper and Laura Class offer reiki sessions at the Rose Baker Senior Center at a discounted rate for seniors, on Fridays, 10 a.m. to noon. For an appointment, call 978-281-9765.
Knitting group
The COA knitting and crochet group meets Tuesdays, 10 a.m., at the Rose Baker Senior Center. New members are welcome. Call 978-281-9765.
Senior Scrabble
A friendly group of Scrabble players meets Tuesdays, noon, at the Rose Baker Senior Center. New members are welcome. Call 978-281-9765.
Teen boat building
Maritime Gloucester is currently running a boat building course for high school students with eight weeks of classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3 to 6 p.m. at the Dory Shop. Taught by Geno Mondello, the program offers hands-on experience in laying out, lofting and making full-sized patterns and pieces and assembling and finishing a skiff. No prior experience necessary. The fee is $50, and the course is limited to six participants. To register, call 978-281-0470.
Mall Mondays
A CATA bus departs the Rose Baker Senior Center each Monday morning at 10 a.m. destined for the Liberty Tree and North Shore Malls. Return pick-up time at the mall is 1:30 p.m. Five or more passengers are needed, so call CATA by the Friday afternoon before the trip. For information/registration, call 978 283-7916, or 978-281-9765.
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.
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.
Pathways volunteers
Pathways' Cape Ann Families, 29 Emerson Ave., seeks men and women to volunteer as parent mentors. The program has been running for 20 years, serving parents of the Cape Ann community who are experiencing stress or isolation. Volunteers are matched with parents, beginning year-long mentorships/friendships. Contact Hailey Granger at 978-281-2400, ext. 110, or hgranger@pw4c.org.
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, email 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.
Volunteers needed
SeniorCare Inc.'s "Meals on Wheels" program is in need of volunteer drivers to deliver noon-time meals to homebound seniors. Hot meals are fully prepared and packaged for delivery. Drivers may volunteer for one morning a week or more. Call Linnea or Paula at 1-866-927-1050 or 978-281-1750, Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Walking Club
The Rose Baker Senior Center's walking club 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.
Pathways playgroups
Pathways for Children hosts parent and child play groups Mondays, 10 to 11:30 a.m., at its Cape Ann Families play space, 8 Emerson Ave. Parents, caregivers and children, from birth to age 5, are welcome. Contact Amy Larsen at 978-281-2400, ext. 120, or alarsen@pw4c.org.
Open Door 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.
Books sought
Gloucester United Methodist Church, 436 Washington St., is raising money through donations of new and used books, CDs, DVDs, records and audio books. The church has a drop-off donation container to collect these items. The church will be paid on an ongoing basis for all items collected in the donation container. The program is an ongoing fundraiser and donations can be made by the public at any time. All funds raised benefit the general funding of the church. Visit www.GotBooks.com.
Family solutions
Parents and caregivers of children, age birth through age five, are welcome to join a six-week parent education workshop, "Positive Solutions for Families," on Tuesdays, April 24-May 29, 5:30 to 7 p.m., at 29 Emerson Ave. Learn why children do what they do, how play is a powerful parenting practice and strategies to promote positive behavior. Childcare and dinner provided. To register, contact Amy at alarsen@pw4c.org or 978-281-2400, ext. 120.
Friends book sale
The Friends of the Sawyer Free Library will hold its annual book sale Friday and Saturday, June 8 and 9, and needs donations of the following items: hardcover and paperbacks in clean, presentable condition published within the last five years for fiction and 10 years for nonfiction. No dated encyclopedia sets, informational reference materials, Reader's Digest condensed literature, or textbooks. Recent magazines, music CDs, videos in VHS and DVD format are welcome. Call John Prybot at 978-281-9763, ext. 24.
Preschool registration
Annisquam kindergarten and nursery school is holding an open house for parents looking for a nurturing creative and fun preschool for ages 2.9 to 6 years. Massachusetts preschool standards are followed, learning is made fun with games, and interesting monthly themes. Individual, creative programs and a wonderful art room and art program are offered; our Spanish teacher provides drama and play twice a week. Visit from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday, April 24. No appointment needed; or when convenient. Our extended hours are 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at new, low prices.
Chargers Youth Program
Gloucester's Chargers Youth Program is accepting football and cheerleading registrations online at: chargersyouthprogram.org. Please do not delay.
Computer Classes
Action, Inc. is offering these free three-week career development classes at its main offices at 180 Main St. in Gloucester (enter through 5 Pleasant St.). To sign up, call 978-282-1000 or email: pbongiorno@actioninc.org.
Microsoft Windows for beginners; learn desktop computer keyboard and mouse and Microsoft Windows programs; April 24 to May 9, Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Microsoft Word; learn to create, format, edit, and merge a wide range of documents. (for participants already familiar with Microsoft Windows) May 22 to June 6, Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Microsoft Excel; learn to create spreadsheets, understand basic formulas, enter, manage and analyze data. July 10 to July 25, Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Friends Book Sale
The Friends of the Sawyer Free Library will hold their annual book sale benefiting the library on June 8 and 9, and need donations of the following items: hardcover and paperbacks in clean, presentable condition published within the last five years for fiction and ten years for nonfiction. No dated encyclopedia sets, informational reference materials, Reader's Digest condensed literature, or textbooks. We encourage recent magazines, music cds, videos in VHS and DVD format. If you'd buy it, then donate it! For more information, call John Prybot at 978-281-9763 x 24.
Second Glance
Second Glance Thrift Store, 2 Pond Road, has extended hours from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Saturday. Shop for clothing, household goods, books, collectibles, furniture and more. The donation center is open during regular business hours. Furniture pickup is available by appointment. A tax receipt is available upon request. All proceeds support The Open Door. Call 978-283-4298 or visit www.foodpantry.org.
Cancer Screening
Cancer Services at Beverly Hospital will conduct a free community skin cancer clinic on Thursday, June 7, from 9 a.m. to 12 noon, in the Hematology & Oncology Clinic at the hospital, 85 Herrick Street, Beverly. To schedule an appointment, call the Health Connection at 1-888-253-0800. Anyone concerned about a skin abnormality is welcome, but this is not a dermatology clinic and surgical procedures will not be performed. The clinic's purpose is to determine if treatment is needed. Representatives from the American Cancer Society and New England Melanoma Foundation will also be available with educational materials about skin cancer prevention and detection.
Arthritis walk
On Sunday, May 20, the North Shore Arthritis Walk ( one and three miles) kicks-off at 10:30 a.m. from Lynch Park, Beverly. This family event raises awareness of arthritis and promotes walking as a healthy activity to maintain bone and joint health, reduce stress, and enhance general well-being. The impact of arthritis on quality of life is severely underestimated; it affects all ages, including children, who are more than welcome at this event. In addition to the walk, the event includes a post walk party with food, entertainment, children's activities, awards and prizes, exhibit booths and much more. This is a "Welcome Wagger" event, so dogs on leashes are welcome.
Sing-along supper
The Gloucester United Methodist Church, 436 Washington St., will host an all-you-can eat spaghetti supper and sing-a-long to your favorite Italian melodies on Saturday, May 19, at 6 p.m. Menu includes homemade meatballs in a tomato or vegetarian sauce, salad, rolls and tiramisu. Gluten-free dinner and dessert are available also; $8 per person, children under 4, free. For reservations, call 978-281-1040. All proceeds benefit our annual August mission trip to Machias, Maine.
Youth Basketball
Coed Youth Basketball registration for students finishing grades five through 12 will be held Tuesday nights, June 5 and 19, through August 14, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Community Church of East Gloucester, 7 Chapel St. Fee is $25 prior to May 31 or $35 after May 31. For information, call Pat Keeley at 978-283-5527
Fashion show
There will be a fashion show on Sunday, May 20, from 3 to 5 p.m. at The Annie. Models, age 9 to 90, are needed to wear beautiful clothing (sizes 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12). Pre-registration for the fitting is required; if interested, please call Jacqueline Cooper at 413-628-0262.
The Titanic
The Children's Library at Sawyer Free Library invites you to stop by and see its 100th anniversary commemorative Titanic display! Included are rare books, movie memorabilia, replicas of Titanic dinnerware, and several signatures and pictures of the survivors at a 1987 Titanic Historic Society Convention. April marks the 100th anniversary of the loss of the Titanic.
Learning Express
Sawyer Library patrons have access to Learning Express Library from any computer with their library card. You can prepare for the CLEP, ACT, PSAT, SAT, TOEFL, and ASVAB without the expense of buying buying practice books. Learning Express also offers tutorials for software, GED preparation, job searches, U.S. citizenship, and resources in Spanish. Visit www.sawyerfreelibrary.org/ and Learning Express Library will be one of the many databases you can access with your library card.
Book Sale
The Friends of the Sawyer Free Library hold its annual book sale benefit for the library on June 8 and 9, and need your donations. Please donate the following items: hardcovers and paperbacks in clean, presentable condition published within the last five years for fiction, and ten years for nonfiction. We cannot accept dated encyclopedia sets, informational reference materials, Reader's Digest condensed literature or textbooks of any kind. We encourage recent magazines, music cds, videos in VHS and DVD format. If you'd buy it, donate it! For more information, call John Prybot at 978-281-9763 x 24. Please do not leave donations outside of the library.
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.
Adult education
Action Inc. is currently offering Adult Basic Education classes (through May 2), Mondays and Wednesdays, from 6:15 to 8:30 p.m. Classes will be held at Action's main offices at 180 Main St. in Gloucester (enter through 5 Pleasant St.), and will include reading, writing, math, work skills, and referrals to support services as needed. Call 978-282-1000 to find out if you're eligible and apply. For more information, visit: www.actioninc.org.
Free ESOL classes
Action Inc. is currently offering free English classes for speakers of other languages (through May 17), on Tuesday and Thursday, from 6 to 8:30 p.m., at Gloucester High School. Beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels are available. (Advanced level covers reading comprehension and writing). If you or someone you know could benefit, call 508-284-6186; an Action staff member able to communicate in English, Spanish, and Portuguese.
Hospice 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.
Senior Steps
The Center for Rehabilitation and Sports Medicine at Addison Gilbert Hospital, 298 Washington St., offers a risk-reduction exercise program for seniors age 60 and older with fear of falling and balance difficulty. A free 30-minute screening is required; plus a $3 fee per class. Program meets Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, 11 a.m. to noon, and from noon to 1 p.m. Space is limited and is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Call 978-283-4001 x141.
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.
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.
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.
Veterans counseling
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.
