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 978-281-5748. 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.

Movie viewing

Trinity Congregational Church, 70 Middle St., will host a viewing of the movie "Molokai: The Story of Father Damien" on Thursday, Feb. 19, at 6:30 p.m. In this story, a 19th century priest, Father Damien (David Wenham), risks everything to help people no one else would touch. When he sees the primitive conditions under which the island's lepers are forced to live, the shocked Damien goes on a personal crusade to improve their physical and spiritual lives. Sandwiches will be served before the show. A discussion will follow. To register, call 978-283-1442.

Art Harbor fundraiser

Art Harbor of Cape Ann Inc. will host a "Shake Off the Winter Chill" fund-raising dance Saturday, Feb. 28, 6 to 8 p.m., at the Rockport Community House, Broadway Avenue, Rockport. Parents are invited to drop off their children for dancing and dinner. Dinner will be pizza, juice or water, and dessert. Donna "Deej" Viau will lead the children in dances and games. Admission is $10 per child and includes dinner, with a $25 cap per family. For reservations, call 978-546-9041.

Music show

Rockport Seniors and Friends will travel to Sheraton Four Points in Leominster for a music show on Thursday, April 16. The show will feature Easter music as well as country, pop, movie and patriotic songs. A full luncheon, which includes a choice of ham or haddock, will be served. Cost is $70 per person and includes roundtrip motorcoach. For fliers, call Marcia Hahn at 978-546-9350.

Comedy night

A night of comedy and music with Hooglio Bastistos will take place Friday, Feb. 20, 8 p.m., at Gloucester Stage Co. Bastistos will open for singer Don White. Tickets are $15. For tickets, visit www.hooglio.com or call 978-282-1988.

Recycling day

Cape Ann Relay for Life's Team All for One Cause will sponsor an electronic recycling collection day Saturday, March 28, 8 a.m. to noon, in the Fuller School parking lot. Televisions will be collected for $10-20, appliances for $10-20, computers for $5 and monitors for $5. Printers, copiers, cell phones, air conditioners, microwaves, stereos, vacuum cleaners, etc. will also be collected. Big Brother, Big Sister will be available to accept clothing items. Call Jane Hiltz at 978-281-1883.

Spring fair

Our Lady of Good Voyage Church, 142 Prospect St., will hold a spring fair Saturday, March 28, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Home and Garden Show

The Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce will host its fourth annual Home and Garden Show on Saturday and Sunday, March 28 and 29, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the Gloucester High School field house. The event will showcase Cape Ann and North Shore businesses that cater to the needs of homeowners and garden enthusiasts. Booth space is open to chamber members in home and garden related businesses. There are several levels of sponsorship available to ensure the involvement of both large and small companies. For more information on sponsorship or booth reservations, call 978-283-1601 or visit www.capeannchamber.com.

School registration

Kindergarten registration and registration for students entering first grade from a private kindergarten will be held at Fuller School on Wednesday, March 4, from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and 4 to 6 p.m. A child must be 5 years old on or before Aug. 31 to enter kindergarten and 6 years old to enter first grade. A birth certificate and proof of residency must be presented at the time of registration. Parents will be asked to provide their child's social security number, and required vaccinations must be completed prior to entrance. Children do not need to attend the registration. It is required that only parents or legal guardians register the pupils. If you are unable to attend on March 4, call your area school as soon as possible to make arrangements to enroll your child.

Police officer examination

Massachusetts Human Resources Division will hold an entry-level examination for Police Officer, Cities and Towns, on April 25, 2009. Applications must be filed or postmarked no later than April 1, 2009. Applications and information about eligibility requirements, application fees, and the examination process are available at the Human Resources Division, 1 Ashburton Place, Boston, MA 02108, or by calling 617-878-9895, or toll-free at 800-392-6178. To apply online, visit www.mass.gov/civilservice.

Harvest Meals

Cape Ann Interfaith Commission offers harvest meals Tuesdays and Fridays, when meals are not served at the Open Door. Meals are offered Tuesdays at St. John's Church, 48 Middle St., and Fridays at Trinity Congregational Church, 70 Middle St. Doors open at 4:30 p.m. on both days. Meals are served from 5 to 6. All are welcome. There is no charge.

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.

BNI meetings

Business Network International, a weekly meeting of local business owners and managers, meets at the Gloucester House restaurant every Thursday at 7 a.m.

Museum passes

Sawyer Free Library offers free or reduced entry passes to the Cape Ann Museum, Boston Children's Museum, Essex Shipbuilding Museum, Gloucester Maritime Heritage Center, Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, Museum of Science, Museum of Fine Arts, Peabody Essex Museum and the Sargent House Museum. To reserve passes, call 978-281-9763.

COA podiatry services

The Council on Aging will sponsor a podiatry clinic Thursday, Feb. 26, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Rose Baker Senior Center. Board-certified podiatrist Dr. Wayne McCullough offers a full range of services. Bring necessary insurance information. To schedule an appointment, call 978-281-9765 or stop by the senior center.

Caregiver information group

The Caregiver Support and Information Group will meet Tuesday, Feb. 17, 12:30 to 2 p.m., at the Rose Baker Senior Center. Meet with others who share similar concerns and frustrations. New members are welcome. Call 978-281-9765.

Constituent service visit

The office of Congressman John Tierney will hold a constituent service visit Friday, Feb. 20, at the Rose Baker Senior Center. Senior aide Cheryl Gresek will be available at 11:30 a.m. To schedule an appointment, call the Council on Aging at 978-281-9765 or stop in.

North Shore Health Project

North Shore Health Project provides services to those living with HIV, AIDS and hepatitis C. Services include case management, holistic therapies, referrals for medical, legal, housing and other critical needs, congregate meals, free clothing, emergency funding and educational and social programming. Counseling with a hepatitis C nurse is available on Mondays. No appointment is necessary. The North Shore Health Project, at 67 Middle St., is open Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Call 978-283-0101.

Free business advice

Service Corps of Retired Executives (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), 72 Rogers St., every Tuesday. Using a three-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 for more information. Call 978-282-7779 to make an appointment.

Parent Connection

Wellspring Cape Ann Families offers a free parent support and education group twice weekly (ongoing throughout the year) for all parents and caregivers. The group meets Mondays, 6 to 7:30 p.m., and Fridays, 10 to 11:30 a.m., at 28 Emerson Ave. Child care and transportation are provided. Call Ann Baylies at 978-281-7856.

HAWC drop-in group

A HAWC (Help for Abused Women and their Children) drop-in group meets every Wednesday from 9:30 to 11 a.m., with child care provided. This free, confidential group is for women who have experienced emotionally or physically abusive relationships. Join other women for nonjudgmental support and education about domestic violence. Call 978-281-1135 for Gloucester location. Visit www.helpabusedwomen.org.

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.

Cape Ann Thrift Shop

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

Open Door meals

The Open Door, 28R Emerson Ave., serves a family-style meal Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday from 5 to 6 p.m. Gloucester residents may call 978-283-6776, ext. 204, to arrange for a free van ride. The ride line must be reached before 4 p.m. to ensure a seat.

Foxwoods trip

The Mother of Grace Club will offer a bus trip to Foxwoods Casino on Saturday, Feb. 21. Cost is $25 per person and includes a $10 Keno voucher, $10 towards food or free buffet, and a chance to enter a raffle for a cruise to the Caribbean for two. The bus will depart from St. Peter's Square at 8 a.m. and return at 5 p.m. Boarding will begin at 7:45 a.m. For tickets, call Gus at 978-479-6717, Katie at 978-283-7621, or Margaret at 978-281-0012.

Dog licenses

Dog licenses for 2009 are now available at the City Clerk's Office. Residents must bring with them updated rabies information and a check, made payable to the "City of Gloucester," for $22.50 per dog. Dog registrations are due by April 30. A $10 late fee per dog will be administered after April 30. Licenses may also be renewed by mail. Call 978-281-9720 for instructions.

Seafood Retirees meet

The Seafood Retirees Group will meet Monday, Feb. 23, 1 p.m., at the Rose Baker Senior Center. Call the Council on Aging at 978-281-9765.

Life Enrichment Series

The Council on Aging will present its Life Enrichment Series on Wednesday, Feb. 25, 10 a.m., at the Rose Baker Senior Center. Rachael Palmacci, director of North Shore PRN, will present a program titled "Creatively Cooking for One." The program is free and open to the public. Call 978-281-9765.

Constituent service visit

State Sen. Bruce Tarr will hold a constituent service visit Friday, Feb. 27, 12:30 p.m., at the Rose Baker Senior Center. All are welcome. Call the Council on Aging at 978-281-9765 to schedule an appointment, or stop in.

Computer classes

Action Inc. Employment and Training Program, located at 180 Main St., offers these classes:

Microsoft Windows for Beginners is designed to teach the user about using a desktop computer keyboard and mouse, working with Microsoft Windows programs, managing files, customizing windows, managing folders and maintaining programs and flash drives. Six-week class meets Wednesdays, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., beginning March 4.

Microsoft Word. Students learn to create, format, edit and merge a wide range of documents, and to manage documents, files and projects electronically. Students should be familiar with or have taken Microsoft Windows. Six-week class meets Wednesdays, 6 to 8 p.m., beginning April 29.

To register, contact Patty Bongiorno at 978-281-7402 or pattyjobs@yahoo.com.

Volunteers sought

The Riverdale Kids' Service Program is now recruiting volunteer parents, students, seniors and community members to share an hour and/or some talent with local children. Schedules are flexible and may include evenings or weekends. For more information, contact Shelley at 978-283-4187 or shelleys_s@yahoo.com.

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.

Recovery programs

A variety of recovery programs meets weekly in Gloucester.

Sunday — Al-Anon, 7:15 to 8:15 p.m., Bowen Room, Addison Gilbert Hospital. Use Washington Street entrance; AA open speakers, 7:30 to 8:30 p.m., St. John's Church, 48 Middle St.

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.

Thursday — Women's Narcotics Anonymous, 7 to 8 p.m., Unitarian Universalist Church, corner of Pine and Church streets.

Friday — AA Gloucester Morning Glories women's AA, 7 to 8 a.m., North Shore Health Project, 67 Middle St.; Al-Anon Cape Ann, 7:30 to 9 p.m., Trinitarian Congregational Church, Route 133, West Gloucester, families and friends of alcoholics invited; AA meeting, First Baptist Church, 38 Gloucester Ave., 8 to 9 p.m.

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.

Fundraiser event

The Bob Rogers "Celebration of Life" reception will take place Sunday, Feb. 15, 4 to 6 p.m., at Brutole restaurant on Route 1 North in Danvers. Donations will benefit the Wellspring House "Rogers Educational Fund." To RSVP, call 978-922-1043.

Fundraiser event

A fundraiser to benefit the family of Matteo Russo will take place Sunday, Feb. 15, 1:30 p.m., at Gloucester Stage Co., East Main Street. The event is sponsored by Joe Ciaramitaro of GoodMorningGloucester.com and Robert Newton of Cape Ann Community Cinema. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Russo family.

Cape Ann TV fundraiser

A fundraiser dinner to benefit Cape Ann TV, the nonprofit community television station, will take place Thursday, Feb. 26, 4 to 8 p.m., at Elliott's at the Blackburn, 2 Main St. Fifteen percent of dinner proceeds will support training and the public use of the studio and facilities of Cape Ann TV. Diners will receive a gift certificate for a celebratory bulletin on Channel 20, have a chance to watch the recording of Henri Smith's N'awlins East television program and, talk to the event field camera. For more information, contact Elliott's at 978-282-1919 or www.elliottsattheblackburn.com, or CATV at 978-281-2443 or www.capeanntv.org.

Chamber panel discussion

The Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce Businesswomen will present a "Women of Cape Ann" panel discussion Wednesday, March 4, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., at the American Legion, 14 Church St., Manchester. Panelists include state Rep. Ann-Margaret Ferrante, Mayor Carolyn Kirk, Manchester Essex Regional School District Superintendent Marcia Adams O'Neil, Rockport Board of Selectmen Chair Sarah Wilkinson, and moderator Val Gilman of the Gloucester School Committee. Each will tell life stories illustrating how they got where they are today. A question-and-answer period will follow. Hors d'oeuvres and beverages will be provided. Admission is $25. For reservations, call 978-283-1601 or e-mail info@capeannchamber.com.

Fundraiser event

Cape Ann Relay for Life's Team All for One Cause will hold a St. Patrick's Day dance fundraiser Saturday, March 14, 7 p.m., at the Gloucester Fraternity Club, Webster Street. Music will be provided by Garfish. The event will feature a silent auction, raffles and food. A $20 donation is requested. Proceeds benefit the American Cancer Society. Wear green and you might win some fun prizes. For advance tickets, call Jane Hiltz at 978-281-1883. Tables can be reserved.

'Writer's Block'

The closing program of "The Writer's Block with John Ronan" series will be broadcast Thursday, Feb. 19, 8 p.m., on cable channel 12, and will be repeated one week later. The episode features local journalists and editors Janet Mackay-Smith and Jane Fosberry Enos. Ronan, a National Endowment for the Arts Fellow and Gloucester's Poet Laureate, interviews poets and writers during the half-hour programs. Send comments with SASE to: "The Writer's Block with John Ronan," Box 5524, Gloucester, MA 01930.

YMCA Theater Club

The Cape Ann YMCA Teen & Camp Services Branch will offer a YMCA Theater Club for youth and teens in grades three through eight. Junior classes, for students in grades three through five, will meet Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3 to 5 p.m.; and senior classes, for students in grades six through eight, will meet Mondays and Wednesdays from 3 to 5 p.m. Monthly fees are $35 for YMCA members, $55 for nonmembers. Financial assistance is available. Whether your child seeks the spotlight or prefers contributing backstage — all are welcome to join professional actress Kimberly Kurczy. For more information, call Rick Doucette at 978-283-0470, ext. 102, or Nikki Klink at ext. 103.

Artists sought

The Rocky Neck Art Colony is currently accepting applications from visual artists for the fifth year of the Rocky Neck Art Colony Residency Program, which runs from May 29 to Oct. 9. The artists selected will evidence high-level accomplishment, originality and seriousness of purpose. One applicant will be selected for each of three four-week residency terms. The program includes prime studio/gallery/living space (including utilities), press coverage, art sales opportunities, and access to a rich cultural community. For more information, visit www.rockyneckartcolony.org/residents.html or call 978-283-9171.

Free income tax assistance

The AARP Foundation and SeniorCare RSVP, in cooperation with the Internal Revenue Service, will offer free income tax preparation for seniors and low- and middle-income residents from now until April 13, at the Rose Baker Senior Center. Volunteer counselors, trained by the IRS, will be available from 9 a.m. to noon, by appointment only. Bring all necessary 2008 tax year records. Homeowners, ages 65 and over, should bring 2008 real estate and water/sewer bills to determine eligibility for the State Circuit Breaker Credit. Call the Council on Aging at 978-281-9765 to schedule an appointment.

Boating course

The Gloucester Power Squadron will offer an eight-week introductory boating course for both sail and power boaters. The 16-hour course is approved by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators, and is recognized by the U.S. Coast Guard and the state of Massachusetts. Topics include navigation rules, chart work, GPS, marine radio, boat handling and trailering. Class meets Tuesdays, 7 to 9 p.m., at Gloucester High School, beginning Feb. 24. The course, open to all adults and children over the age of 12, meets the educational requirements for boat operation in all states. GHS students receive academic credit as well. Cost is $50 and includes the text, plotting tools and the exam. To register, call 978-525-3706.

Friday night bingo

Bingo is held in the St. Ann Church hall, 74 Pleasant St., every Friday night at 6:30. Doors open at 4:30 p.m. Anyone 18 and older is invited to play. Proceeds support school and parish programs. Call 978-281-4820.

Business counseling

The Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce, 33 Commercial St., offers free small-business counseling on the first and third Thursdays of each month. The program is suitable for anyone considering starting a business or who has questions about any aspect of a company that is already operating. Participants will meet with a representative from the Small Business Development Center of Salem State College at the chamber's office. To make an appointment, call the chamber at 978-283-1601 or e-mail info@CapeAnnChamber.com.

Support for troops

The Gloucester Office of Veterans' Services is seeking help from the community

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

Donations needed. The office is accepting donations of needed goods, including AT&T telephone cards, and donations for mailing boxes to send to the troops. Military families need help, too.

Military family members. Residents are urged to register their active duty family member(s) with the office. Already registered? Let the office know where your active duty family member is stationed.

Call the Office of Veterans' Services at 978-281-9740 for more information.

Band seeks musicians

The Rockport Legion Band is holding a series of reading rehearsals at Legion Hall on Beach Street every Thursday at 7:30 p.m. until April 30. Any player of a concert band instrument is welcome to join these rehearsals. Details about the band can be found online at http://rockportlegionband.wordpress.com. E-mail rockportband@gmail.com or call Music Director Steve Thomas at 978-546-6199.

Cape Ann Social Club

The Cape Ann Social Club provides adults with social, recreational and community activities every Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, 5 to 8 p.m., and Thursday and Saturday, 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Members meet at various places. For more information on becoming a member or volunteer, call 978-283-0000, ext. 770.

Action lead program

Only families with lead-poisoned children will be eligible for funding in the Get the Lead Out Loan Program until further notice.

Community Health Center

Seniors and low-income residents can get help in gaining access to health care services, receive assistance with applications or ask about general concerns at the Rose Baker Senior Center. Stop in or call 978-281-9765 to schedule an appointment with SHINE counselor/interpreter Sefatia Romeo on Tuesdays, 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., or with North Shore Community Health Center financial counselor Fatima Calisto, who has office hours on Thursdays, 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

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. For more information, call Jeannie at 978-281-9763, ext. 18.

TOPS meeting

TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly), a weight-loss and maintenance support group, meets every Monday at Seacoast Nursing Center, 292 Washington St., Gloucester. Weigh-in begins at 5:30 p.m., followed by the meeting at 7. New members should arrive at 6 p.m. Low membership fees. Call MaryEllen at 978-283-2103 or Susan at 978-768-7959.

Bowl decorating event

Join North Shore 104.9 and The Cape Ann Food Pantry on Wednesday, Feb. 25, from 6:30 to 8 p.m., to decorate a bowl for the annual Empty Bowl Dinner. The decorating event will be held at 28 Emerson Ave. in Gloucester. Bring your creativity and a friend. Children are welcome. Decorating is free, but reservations are required; e-mail info@foodpantry.org or call 978-283-6776. Visit www.foodpantry.org.

Thursday afternoon movies

The Council on Aging invites seniors to Rose Baker Senior Center for full-length adventure films, without a charge, on Thursday at 12:30 p.m. Shows are Feb. 19, "Prince Caspian," the second installment of the "Chronicles of Narnia"; Feb. 26, "The Dutchess," starring Ralph Fiennes and Keira Knightley in a true story about the Duchess of Devonshire.

AMVETS drawing

AMVETS Post 32, Friends of AMVETS, 500 Club will hold its monthly drawing Monday, Feb. 23, at 7 p.m. in the Post function hall, 14 Prospect St. Over $1,100 in prize money is awarded every month, plus door prizes; it is not necessary to be present to win. Cost is $5 per number and the drawing is open to the public. Call Tom Glenn at 978-283-7516 or Pete Tibbetts at 978-281-0681.