Listings may be sent to: Goings On, Gloucester Daily Times, 36 Whittemore St.,Gloucester, MA 01930, or emailed to Joann Mackenzie at jomackenzie@gloucestertimes.com, at least two weeks prior to an event.
Conservation roots
On Sunday, Sept. 22, from 2 to 4 p.m, the Gloucester Unitarian Universalist Church, 10 Church St. Gloucester, presents Dan McKanan, the Emerson Senior Lecturer at Harvard Divinity School, exploring the spiritual roots and vision that led residents of Massachusetts to create the first state parks and the first conservation land trusts in the 1890s, and the ways that vision was enacted on Cape Ann. For nearly two centuries, Massachusetts has led the nation with a distinct approach to wild space conservation, fostering greater biodiversity in the ordinary places where we work, live, and play. McKanan focuses on religious movements for social transformation in the U.S. with emphasis on environmentalism, intentional community, and socialism. This free event, open to the public, is sponsored by the Interfaith Committee of the Cape Ann Climate Coalition and funded by the National Ocean and Atmospheric Administration.
Brew Fest
Experience one of the best sea views on Cape Ann with a cold beer in your hand on Saturday, Sept. 21, from 1-5 p.m. at Gloucester’s historic Stage Fort Park, 24 Hough Ave., off Route 127. It’s the Blackburn Brew Fest, and it’s back again with hundreds of beers, ciders, and meads brewed by over 30 commonwealth breweries. Rockport-based Pigeon Cove Ferments will have a booth, presenting its expanding line of hard and non-alcoholic kombuchas. Tickets are $50 per person in advance at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/blackburn-brew-fest-tickets-927972720387; and $60 at the event. Designated driver admission is $10. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Cape Ann Community Foundation.
Yard sale
There will be a Yard Sale at the home of the Rev. Wendy Fitting this Saturday, Sept 21, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., 242 East Main St. Gloucester, corner of East Main Street and Mount Pleasant Avenue, across from Gloucester Stage Company.
Elks craft fair
The Gloucester Elks 892, 97 Atlantic Ave., is holding an outdoor Craft Fair on Sunday, Sept. 22, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. There will be 30 local vendors. All are welcome. The Elks helps the community with grants, scholarships throughout the year.
Literary tour
A last free Literary Gloucester Walking tour, started in 2023 under the auspices of the Gloucester 400+ Literary Committee and under the sponsorship of the Gloucester Writers Center, is Saturday, Sept. 21. Gloucester has been home to great writers since the 1700s when Judith Sargent Murray penned her feminist poems and essays. For T.S. Eliot, Nobel Prize winner, Gloucester was his boyhood summer home and the sea themes are a signature part of his poetry. Charles Olson and Vincent Ferrini maintained a poetic dialogue in the 20th century. Rudyard Kipling wrote “Captains Courageous,” while staying in Rockport, Henry Wordsworth Longfellow’s “The Wreck of the Hesperus,” was inspired by a ship that wrecked off Gloucester’s coast, to name but a few. Tours start at 10 a.m. in front of the Sargent House Museum and run till noon, guided by noted raconteur Phil Storey. Rain or shine.
Fish Box Derby
The 2024 Fish Box Derby will be held noon to 4 p.m. Sunday Sept. 22, on the Rogers Street hill from Gorton’s Seafood to Massachusetts Electric. The event for local kids ages 8 to 14 feaures trophies and a chance to win a scholarship up to $500. Cars and drivers must be present for check-in at 10:30 a.m. The race, which dates to the 1950s, has been organized by the Gloucester AMVETS and American Legion since 2018. Please, no pets in the pit area. Service animals are permitted. All drivers and their kid-powered cars must have passed pre-race inspection on Aug, 25. Entries and inspections will not be allowed on race day. Sorry, no exceptions.
Run for the Trails
HAMILTON — Registration is open for the Essex County Trail Association’s 20th annual Run for the Trails to be held Saturday, Sept. 21. Registration fee is 5 Miles: $20 member, $30 non-member; 10 Miles: $25 member, $35 non-member. Proceeds go toward ECTA’s mission of maintaining trails in its member towns of Hamilton, Wenham, Topsfield, Ipswich, Essex and West Newbury for all types of passive recreation. Visit https://ecta27.wildapricot.org/event-5579436 for more details/.
At Halibut Point
ROCKPORT — Halibut Point State Park’s free September programs are open to the public at 4 Gott Ave., Rockport. Guided group tours available with advance reservations: Fees, $5 Mass license plate and $20 out-of-state plates. An adult must accompany children. Reasonable accommodations available upon request. For questions or advance reservations, call 978.546.2997 or email halibut.point@mass.gov
When Granite was King, Saturday, Sept. 21. Babson Farm quarrying history guided tour, 10-11 a.m. Meet at parking area. Ages 8 and up.
A Quarryman’s Tales & Tools, Saturday, Sept. 28, 10 to 11:30 a.m. Fred Peterson shares quarrying tales and his vintage quarryman’s tools. Learn the 150-year granite quarrying industry of yesteryear and today’s use of granite! Granite splitting demonstration.
Psychic Fair
ROCKPORT — The Psychic and Mystical Crafts Fair will take place Sunday, Sept. 29, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Apothecary Suil Crow at 9 Whistlestop Mall.
“This is an old-fashioned psychic fair from tarot readings to sound healers to oracle readings to spiritual guidance and shopping, unique and wonderful handmade items,” Rebeccah Pearson, owner of Apothecary Suil Crow, said.
More information is available at apothecarysuilcrow.com.
Hospice walk
DANVERS — Care Dimensions, the largest hospice and palliative care provider in Massachusetts, invites the public to attend the 37th annual Walk for Hospice on Sunday, Sept. 29, at 9 a.m. on the campus of St. John’s Prep, 72 Spring St. in Danvers. The walk offers an opportunity to remember and honor loved ones who have died, while also raising funds for Care Dimensions, a nonprofit hospice provider serving more than 100 communities in Eastern Massachusetts. Funds from the walk support programs such as grief support, music therapy, and other services that benefit hospice patients and their families. Learn more and register at: CareDimensions.org/Wal
Climate films
The Gloucester Meetinghouse Foundation, TownGreen, and the Gloucester Stage Company are presenting a “Cape Ann Climate Future Film Festival” on Oct. 5, at the Gloucester Stage Company, 267 East Main St., Gloucester. Doors open at 2 p.m. for a light reception with local barbecue and dessert favorites. The program begins at 3 p.m. and runs until about 5 p.m. This will be the first time all three organizations have united, recognizing that we are all one in the face of heat, cold, heavy winds and rising seas. We will show a series of ten short films from four continents which will “explore the artistic and human response to climate change,” as noted by the festival’s producers. There will be a community discussion at the end of the screening. This is a way for people to learn about how climate change is being addressed around the world, and to consider what is happening immediately on Cape Ann. Tickets are $20.
Women singers sought
Sorellanza, a small, established women’s a cappella chorus with a diverse repertoire, is seeking new members. Experience is needed, and reading music is an asset. For an audition, please contact Patti Pike at Pikeharp@comcast.net.
Comfort baskets
A group of friends — participants of the Relay for Life for many years — have raised over $100,000 for the American Cancer Society. During that time one of its members had cancer and came up with the idea of providing comfort baskets containing products to help make the side effects of chemotherapy more bearable to patients. Many have been given away and are being donating to the Addison Gilbert Hospital infusion center each month. The bags contain, a blanket, knitted hat, gift card, lotions, mug, tea, a pillow and other varied items which can help the person undergoing chemotherapy treatments. To help continue this non-profit program, you can find Friends for Friends on VENMO or send a donation care of Sue Lovasco, 24 South St., Rockport MA 01966.
At Sawyer Free
Gloucester’s Sawyer Free Library has plenty going on at its temporary location at 21 Main St, downtown Gloucester, as well as at other locations and, for virtual events, online. For more information, and for all events, virtual and in person, requiring registration, go to: sawyerfreelibrary.org.
Gloucester Genealogy Group, Saturday, Sept. 21, 10:30-1:30 a.m, Presentation by Sarah Tripp of Phillips Library of the Peabody Essex Museum — learn to access genealogical resources largely based in Essex County, 19th century. Register as above. Questions? jtravers@sawyerfreelibrary.org.
Community Creations, Sept. 25, 6-8 p.m., Art and reativity at Cape Ann Lanes, 53 Gloucester Ave., Materials and pizza provided. Ages 18+ Register as noted above. sawyerfreelibrary.org. Questions? lryan@sawyerfreelibrary.org.
Gloucester 400 Storytellers event, Thursday, Sept. 26, 5:30-6:30 p.m,. Recent discoveries and old mysteries surrounding Leonard Craske, sculptor of Fishermen’s Memorial, Man at the Wheel. James Clark shares insights from his research. From A Gloucester400+ Commemorative Book, Our People, Our Stories. Register as noted above. Questions? Contact: jtravers@sawyerfreelibrary.
Musical Storytime with Ruthanne Paulson, Friday, Sept. 27, 11-11:45 a.m., Children with caregivers. No registration. Questions? jvitale@sawyerfreelibrary.org.
Genealogy Myths & Legends, Saturday, Sept. 28, 10:30-11:30 a.m., Michael Brophy, world-renowned genealogist, explains and debunks fiction about genealogy and family history. In the Brenner Room at Rockport Library, 17 School St., Rockport. Register as noted above. Questions? jtravers@sawyerfreelibrary.
SFL Home Delivery, free for residents of all ages with special needs, illness, or disability. Questions? email:moneill@sawyerfreelibrary.org.
Interactive Storytime with Tricia, Wednesdays, 10:30-11:15 a.m., all ages. No registration. Questions? Contact: jvitale@sawyerfreelibrary.org.
At Manchester library
MANCHESTER-BY-THE-SEA — September is Library Card Sign-up Month, so Manchester-by-the-Sea Public Library,15 Union St., would like to remind everyone of just how valuable a resource a library card can be. Your first card is free. You’ll receive a free book bag and lanyard with it, and be connected to all the library has to offer — from borrowing books, ebooks and audiobooks to getting tech help, or learning new skills. For more information about this and all events and programs at the library, and to register, visit www.manchesterpl.org. Questions? Call 978-526-7711, or email mwillwerth@manchesterpl.org.
Fall hours are Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Crew Week Zero Waste Challenge Kick Off, Saturday, Sept. 21, 1-3 p.m. Mulled cider, free swag, and info on how to divert trash from the landfill. Great prizes for the smallest amount of trash collected Sept. 9-27. Captain Dusty’s Ice Cream scooped for all who participate at the weigh-in on Sept. 27, 3-5 p.m. Register at bit.ly/mbts_zerowaste_2024 or at the library.
Intro to Saving Seeds, Thursday, Sept. 26, at 6 -7 p.m. Being a seed steward starts digging into the details. And this program gets you off to a great start. Register online or call 978-526-7711. This event is a part of Communities Responding to Extreme Weather. Visit: climatecrew.org/climate_prep_week.
Pop Up Art School: Cardboard Coral Reef, Tuesday, Sept. 24, 4 to 5:30 p.m. Dive into creativity! As part of the library’s Climate Week. Transforms recycled materials into a vibrant coral reef. Ages 8 and up. Register online or call 978-526-7711. both with games, crafts, and fun at the library! Ages 6-11. Please register online or call 978-526-7711.
Touch-a-Truck, Saturday, Sept. 28, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Get up close and personal with trucks and other vehicles from the Public Works and Fire and Police Departments.
Lego Time, Mondays, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Drop-in, unstructured Lego building for kids ages 6 and up.
Teen Advisory Board (TAB): High schoolers may get involved in the library’s collection, promoting events, planning the annual Haunted Library, and more. Teens will get community service hours for school and pizza. Questions? Contact Tom Russo, at trusso@manchesterpl.org.
Rescue wildlife
Could you be harming Gloucester’s wildlife unintentionally? Local licensed wildlife rehabbers are receiving sick and dying wildlife regularly that are being harmed by us humans, often completely unintentionally. On Oct. 21, 6:30 to 8 p.m., at the Cape Ann YMCA, Rescue Gloucester Wildlife is hosting a presentation with MassAudubon’s Heather Packard about what you can do to prevent unintentional harm to wildlife. Save the date and check the Facebook page “Rescue Gloucester Wildlife.” Questions? Email songbirder @hotmail.com.
The Open Door
Need help getting groceries? Let food be one less thing to worry about with The Open Door’s new programs. New clients and those returning after more than two years can create an online shopping profile at FOODPANTRY.org/newshopper or call 978-283-6776. New profiles will be processed within one business day. Active clients can place orders at FOODPANTRY.org/order or call 978-283-6776. Translation services are available in many languages. Groceries will be ready for pick-up, with limited delivery available. Need food today? Visit the Gloucester Food Pantry at 28 Emerson Ave., during business hours for basic groceries. Ordering online or by phone for pick-up or delivery within one to three business days allows you more choice. The Open Door is open Monday through Wednesday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Thursday through Friday, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Need SNAP (Food Stamps)? One-on-one, confidential prescreening for application, recertification, and interim report available at 978-283-6776 ext. 201 or snap@foodpantry.org. Community Meals? Pick-up and delivery, 3 p.m. to close Monday through Friday. Extra meals available on Fridays for the weekend. For more information, visit FOODPANTRY.org.
At CAM Green
Beginning Oct. 11 and continuing through spring 2026, Cape Ann Museum’s CAM Green campus, will host a robust series of exhibitions and programs. This shift to year-round access, programs and exhibitions at CAM Green will include expanded weekly hours, free admission, and timed ticketing to welcome more visitors to the space while the museum’s downtown campus on Pleasant Street closes for extensive renovations. Located off Poplar Street in Gloucester, the Green campus has free parking and gallery access. Timed entry tickets are required by registering at the museum website. CAM Green hours will be expanded to Wednesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. New signature community events will be held within the James Center at CAM Green, with details soon to be announced. Visit https://www.capeannmuseum.org/
Blood drives
The American Red Cross urges blood and platelet donors, especially those with type O blood and donors giving platelets, to make and keep donation appointments now to help hospitals restock blood products for patients. As a thank-you, those who come give blood, platelets or plasma in August will get a $20 Amazon.com gift card by email. For details, visit RedCrossBlood.org/Help.
Monday, Sept. 23: 1-6 p.m., Our Lady of Good Voyage Church, 142 Prospect St., Gloucester.
Wednesday, Sept. 25: 2-7 p.m., Magnolia Library & Community Center, 1 Lexington Ave., Gloucester.
Sept. 30: Noon to 5 p.m., at both Amaral Bailey American Legion Post, 14 Church St. in Manchester-by-the-Sea; and Our Lady of Good Hope, 1 Pineswamp Road, Ipswich.
Appointments also are available at other locations and at the Danvers Blood Donation Center, 99 Rosewood Drive in Danvers, and by calling 800-733-2767, visiting redcrossblood.org or using the Red Cross Blood Donor App.
Tai Chi
ROCKPORT — Amy Seabrook leads an Introduction to Tai Chi exercise each Tuesday, from 11 to 12:15 p.m., at Rockport First Congregational Church, 12 School St. This class focuses on simple, circling movements and the principles behind them. Participants will concentrate on weight transfer for balance and stability. Suggested donation of $7 pays for use of the hall and supports the church. Email Amy at seabrookarts@gmail.com for more information.
Calling all artists
MANCHESTER-BY-THE-SEA — Manchester Public Library’s second annual “Falling for Art Exhibit and Sale” is set to run Oct. 18-20. Artists are invited to submit 3-5 digital jpeg images by Sept. 30. Submissions should be emailed to fallingforartmbts@gmail.com and labelled “last name, first name, title of piece, price.” Fifty percent of the proceeds benefit The Friends of the Manchester Public Library. Manchester Public Library is located at 15 Union St., Manchester. Visit https://www.manchesterpl.org/.
Chorus meets
DANVERS — The Northshoremen Barbershop Chorus welcomes men of all ages who love to sing to join them. The chorus rehearses every Wednesday at 7 p.m. at All Saints Episcopal Church, 46 Cherry St., Danvers. Come to the next rehearsal, or for more information call 866-727-4988.
Rockport renewals
ROCKPORT — The Rockport Public Library offers automatic renewals on most items checked out from the library. Items will automatically renew if they have not been returned three days before their due date. Patrons will no longer have to take steps to renew items, even if the items came from a library in Rockport’s network of libraries. Items that cannot be renewed include lucky day titles, items on waiting lists, items that have reached their renewal limit, items borrowed from outside the Merrimack Valley Library Consortium (MVLC), items checked out from a nonparticipating library. By initiating renewals automatically, the library complements its existing fine-free model, under which the library no longer charges fines for overdue items. Patrons who have registered their email addresses with the library will get an email notifying them that their items have been automatically renewed — and reminders of upcoming due dates. To add your email for this service, email info@rockportlibrary.org, call 978-546-6934 or speak with a librarian. Drivers license or two other forms of ID are required at check-in. In most states age 16 must have parental consent, weigh at least 110 pounds and be in good health.
Essex seniors
ESSEX – The Essex Council on Aging offers events and trips for seniors. For more information or to register for an event, please call the office at 978-768-7932 or visit the Senior Center at 17 Pickering St. Also, tune in to the Cape Ann Virtual Senior Center for events and fitness opportunities on channel 67 sponsored by the Cape Ann Councils on Aging and the Friends of the Essex Council on Aging. Unless otherwise noted, events will take place at the senior center. Destination events require registration as noted for seat on CATA van.
Walking Club, Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, 9:30 to 11:30 a.m., free at the Gordon College Bennett Center indoor walking track. Registration requested by calling Hamilton-Wenham Recreation at 978-468-2178. Transportation by CATA.
Creative Connections, Mondays, 10 a.m. to noon. Bring art projects or start a new one. Supplies while they last.
Arts Group, Tuesdays, 1 to 3 p.m. Paint, knit, crochet, or sew? Bring a project or help create items for the Friends Boutique.
Computer & Technology Assistance, Wednesdays, 1 to 3 pm. Help with computer, tablet, phone? Drop in and ask for Curt or Bill.
Games with Gil at the Senior Center, Wednesdays, 1 p.m. All ages welcome, for board games or Scrabble, Boggle, cribbage, backgammon. Join us or bring a friend and come play
Mobile Market at the Essex Senior Center, first and third Fridays of each month, 10:30 a.m.
Balance in motion, Tuesdays and Fridays, 10 a.m., $5 donation requested.
Groove Fitness Video, Mondays, 9:30 a.m. Dance class to video, no instructor. $5 donation requested.
Cape Ann Virtual Fitness Senior Center: Tune into channel 67 for fitness programs sponsored by the Cape Ann COA and the Friends of the Essex Council on Aging.
Grab and Go Meals, Mondays and Thursdays, noon (must be picked up by 12:30): Monday meals provided by The Open Door, Thursday meals provided by Senior Care. Please register two business days in advance at 978-768-7932.
Sit ‘n Knit
ROCKPORT — The Rockport Public Library, 17 School St., hosts Sit ‘n Knit (formerly Which Craft?) on Mondays from 12:30-2:30 p.m., New name and new time! In the Trustees Room. Pull up a chair, break out your needlecraft, and join the conversation. For more information, call 978-546-6934, or visit rockportlibrary.org.
Exchange open
The Annisquam Exchange opens it doors Wednesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., through October. Offering Folly Cove designs, silver, collectibles, estate pieces, linens, fine jewelry, kitchenware, cards, Annisquam apparel from Annisquam Sewing Circle, artworks, toys, candy, and more, at 32 Leonard St. in Gloucester. To learn more, visit www.annisquamexchange.com or email annisquamexchange@gmail.com.
Home upgrades
Essex County Habitat for Humanity’s Critical Home Repair/Aging in Place program can — by using volunteers, donated construction materials and flexible sources of funding — offer very affordable house repairs to help Gloucester seniors age in place. The projects typically take a week, and the homeowner can usually continue living in the home while the work is done. Upgrades include wheelchair ramps, weatherization, handicap features, repairing structural rotting, stairs, roofing, etc. The program is not limited to elder and/or disabled homeowners, and does repairs necessary to maintain sound condition of the home, weatherization and energy efficiency, those needed to alleviate critical health, life and safety issues or code violations, and those that will help older adults age safely in their homes. Habitat staff inspects the property and determines financial qualifications based on total household income. If physically able, the homeowner must contribute sweat equity hours and the home must be owner-occupied. Learn more at https://www.essexcountyhabitat.org/critical-home-repair-program/.
Cribbage
A cribbage league plays Thursdays at 7 p.m., at the Pilot House, 3 Porter St, Gloucester. Cost is $5 a week and each round lasts ten weeks. For more information, call 978-491-8660.
Informal Cribbage games happen Wednesdays, 6-8 p.m., at the Magnolia Library and Community Center. The library asks that players join the Magnolia Library. https://www.magnolialibrary.org/copy-of-about-us. There are no other dues to play. Contact Dot Sieradzki at Dotsieradzki@gmail.com for more information.
Teen task force
High school students of all faiths are invited to join Lappin Foundation’s Teen Antisemitism Task Force. Students will hear from experts about ways they can combat antisemitism and all forms of hate, as well as put into action what they learn. There will be opportunities for teens to share their experiences and ideas as well. Meetings will be held Tuesdays from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m., once a month. For the complete calendar and list of speakers, visit LappinFoundation.org. There is no cost to join the task force and students can attend meetings as their schedules allow. For more information email dcoltin@lappinfoundation.org. The Teen Antisemitism Task Force is supported by CJP and the Jewish Teen Initiative.
For job seekers
If you need help with your resume, cover letter, or some job searching advice, contact jobseeker@sawyerfreelibrary.org or call 978-325-5500 to make an appointment for in-person resume and cover letter assistance with a librarian. Computers, Chromebooks, tablets, Wi-Fi Hotspots, printing, photocopying, scanning, and saving via email and flash drive are all free at the Sawyer Free Library at 21 Main St. Questions? Visit sawyerfreelibrary.org or 978-325-5500.
Writer’s Center
The Gloucester Writers Center, 126 E. Main St., Gloucester, is a 501©(3) nonprofit founded in 2010. Its mission is to celebrate Cape Ann’s literary legacy and promote writing as an art and a tool. Here are some sessions coming up; find more details at gloucesterwriters.org.
Open Mic Nights, first Monday of the month at 7:30 p.m., 126 East Main St., Gloucester. Come early, sign up, enjoy refreshments and camaraderie. Bring five minutes of work to share! in low-key, supportive setting. Parking is at Chapel Street + North Shore Arts, just down the road.
Volunteer at the Gloucester Writers Center, a small, community-focused nonprofit.
Caregiver workshop
The Savvy Caregiver is a free workshop is for caregivers of memory-impaired recipients. It meets via Zoom weekly on Mondays, through Oct. 21, and will help caregivers understand the impact of dementia, learn skills to manage daily life and communicate more effectively, and take care of themselves. To register, contact Abby Considine at SeniorCare, 978-281-1750, ext. 581.
Museum, zoo passes
Local libraries offer cardholders passes to many regional cultural attractions.
Funded by the Friends, Sawyer Free Library, 21 Main St., offers cardholders passes to the Boston Children’s Museum, Cape Ann Museum, Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, Maritime Gloucester , Museum of Fine Arts, Museum of Science, Peabody Essex Museum, New England Aquarium, Sargent House Museum, Zoo New England and new additions North Shore Children’s Museum and Historic New England properties. Library patrons can visit sawyerfreelibrary.org to reserve passes. Questions? Contact 978-325-5500.
Manchester Public Library offers passes to the Cape Ann Museum, Institute of Contemporary Art (ICA), Museum of Science, Peabody Essex Museum and Zoo New England. Manchester Public Library patrons may visit www.manchesterpl.org and click on Museum Passes to begin the reservation process. Click on the museum you are interested in visiting and there you will see instructions to reserve a timed ticket. If you have any questions, please call the library at 978-526-7711.
Stage for caregivers
Caregivers are invited to enjoy a free night of theater. SeniorCare and Gloucester Stage will provider caregivers with two free tickets to a show in the 2024 season for themselves and a guest. See www.gloucesterstage.com for more information about shows. To register for free tickets for a date of your choice (subject to seat availability), call 978-281-1750 x591.
Women artists
On view at Cape Ann Museum, 27 Pleasant St., Gloucester, is a major retrospective of a wealth of works by Cape Ann women artists, from 1870-1970, many of whom have gained national recognition. Drawing from the museum’s collection, the works of 42 women artists are organized around the themes of portraiture, summer on Cape Ann, illustrators and authors, new visions and the collaborative spirit. The show runs through Sept. 29. To register, visit: https://www.capeannmuseum.org/event/camtalk-exhibition-series-cecilia-beauxs-green-alley-days/.
Food drive
MANCHESTER — “Neighbors Helping Neighbors” is the theme of the Manchester Knights of Columbus ongoing 24/7 food drive for The Open Door’s food pantry in Gloucester. The need on Cape Ann is greater now than ever before, so all are encouraged to leave food donations in the designated bins in the garage on Friend Street behind Sacred Heart Church, School Street, Manchester. Food items most needed are peanut butter; canned tuna, chicken, turkey; healthy snack items; breakfast cereal; 100% juice/juice boxes; hearty soups; canned vegetables and fruits; spaghetti sauce; macaroni and cheese; rice; noodles and pasta; and cake, muffin, and pancake mixes. (Please no glass items-jars, bottles, etc.) Knights of Council 1232 transport the donated food to The Open Door weekly. This food drive is an open-ended and on-going effort.
Thrift Shop open
ROCKPORT — The Unitarian Universalist Church thrift store is open every Friday and Saturday, 9 a.m. to noon, through Sept. 28. Jewelry, art, toys and puzzles, indoor and outdoor decor, household wares, and beach reads. Donations gratefully accepted. More information available by calling the Unitarian Universalist Society of Rockport at 978-546-2989.
Zoom in on arthritis
Arthritis relief without pills? Exercises can help functional movement, increase range of motion and improve ADL’s (Activities of Daily Living), and you won’t have to leave the house to do it. PACE at Element Care is offering a free virtual exercise program over Zoom every Wednesday at 11 a.m. Sit, stand, and join us. All are welcome, and it’s absolutely free. Register for your Zoom link at: https://elementcare-org.zoom.us/j/83819924499?pwd=N1N6ZHNmbUxUaXRtWm1EWmR1bzF1UT09. Meeting ID: 838 1992 4499.
At Essex library
ESSEX — TOHP Burnham Library, 30 Martin St., Essex, has a full house of activities. Open weekdays until 7 p.m., Saturday, 10 a.m. to noon. For all event requiring registration, sign up at essexpl.org/events. Questions? 978-768-7410.
Regional social worker office hours, Wednesdays, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., in first floor meeting room. Free, private and confidential, learn resources, strategies and skills to assist in stress reduction and management. Call 978-983-1771 for appointment.
Meals on Wheels
Home-delivered meals might be for you if you are age 60 or older, and unable to prepare a balanced meal because of physical, mental, or emotional limitations, or lack of home assistance from family, friends, or neighbors, to prepare balanced meal. If this sounds like you, and you are unable to participate in the congregate dining program comfortably or safely, Meals on Wheels delivers daily to your door. There are no income eligibility requirements for this program. For more information call SeniorCare Inc. at 978-281-1750 or call toll-free 866-927-1050.
Old Salties Jazz Band
Dave Sags’ Old Salties Jazz Band plays jazz every Monday at 1 p.m. at the Rose Baker Senior Center, 6 Manuel F Lewis St., Gloucester. All are welcome to stop by and enjoy some great live jazz. Just tell them at the entrance desk that you’re there as a guest of the Old Salties Jazz Band. Questions? Call 978- 325-5800.
‘Falling For Art’
MANCHESTER-BY-THE-SEA — The Friends of the Manchester Library’s highly anticipated “Falling For Art” event will take place at the library, 15 Union St., beginning Friday, Oct. 18, with an opening meet-the-artists party from 6-8 p.m., continuing Saturday, Oct. 19, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sunday, Oct. 20, from 1-4 p.m. The works of many local artists will be on view and 50% of all proceeds from sales supporting the library’s many programs, services, and improvements that enhance the experience for all patrons. For more, visit: visit manchesterpl.org or contact the organizers.
Symphony season
MANCHESTER-BY-THE-SEA — Cape Ann Symphony’s 73rd concert season starts Sunday, Sept. 29, at 2 p.m. in the auditorium at Manchester Essex Regional High School, 36 Lincoln St. in Manchester-by-the-Sea, under the direction Conductor Yoichi Udagawa. The season features guest artists cellist Owen Young and pianist Myron Romanul, and the Cape Ann Symphony Chorus under the direction of choral director Brittany Betts. Tickets are $50 adults; $45 seniors; $20 students with valid student ID; $5, 12 and under. For season subscriptions and more information, visit www.capeannsymphony.org, or call 978-281-0543.
Music of the Kora
ROCKPORT — Music of the West African Kora, a popular folk stringed instrument built from a gourd, Comes to Rockport Public Library on Wednesday, Oct. 9, from 4-6 p.m. Sean Gaskell will present an educational performance on the kora, a 21-stringed West African harp. His journey with the kora began in 2006, inspired by a performance by Kane Mathis. This experience led him to West Africa, where he studied under Moriba Kuyateh and the late Malamini Jobarteh in Brikama, Gambia, and later with Youssoupha Cissokho and Mamadou Cissokho in Senegal. To register, visit rockportlibrary.org/events.
At Rockport library
ROCKPORT — Rockport Public Library, 17 School St., offers ongoing programming for one and all. Zoom and in-person events require registration on the library event calendar at https://rockportlibrary.org/events/. Questions? Call 978-546-6934.
Sit & Knit Circle, Mondays, 12:30 to 2:30 p.m., in the Trustees Room to work on your knitting and needlecraft projects while enjoying lively conversation with similar creatives. No instruction provided, but all are welcome to pull up a chair, break out your needlecraft, and join the conversation.
ESOL English Conversation on Zoom, Mondays from 3-4:15 p.m., Wednesdays from 7-8:30 p.m., and Thursdays from 2-3:15 p.m. Requires basic English; must be a resident of Massachusetts. To register, email literacyservices@bpl.org, or leave a message at 617-859-2446.
LEGOs and Crafting, 3:15-4:15 p.m. Mondays, in the Brenner Room to build with the library’s collection of LEGO bricks, or create with crafting supplies. Children under 9 must be accompanied by a caregiver. Registration required.
Modern Drama Discussion Group, 4 p.m. Mondays, on Zoom and in the Trustees Room. Questions? email baudano@rockportlibrary.org.
Essex Regional Social Worker Open Office Hours: with Jessie Palm, social worker for the Eastern Essex Regional Public Health Coalition, every first and third Tuesday of the month (note date change) from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the Trustees Room. Support, information. No appointment necessary.
Art & Sensory Class in the Garden, Tuesdays, 3 to 4 p.m. with Sarah Brown. Preschoolers to upper elementary. Please register and plan to remain with your child for the class.
Dungeons & Dragons, Wednesdays, 4:30-6 p.m. Youth Group role plays in the Trustees Room. Registration required.
Harvard Law School Legal Services Virtual Drop-in, Fridays, 10 a.m. to noon, on Zoom. Consumer loans, criminal record sealing or expungement (CORI), disability rights, divorce, custody, child support, housing law and tenants’ rights, LGBTQ+ related concerns, military record corrections, Social Security, public benefits, SNAP and veterans, small claims court, tax issues. Register for Zoom link at: https://rockportlibrary.org/events/.
Toddler Storytime, Fridays, 10:30 a.m. Stories, songs, and rhymes in the children’s room. Ages 18 months to 3 years with caregivers.
Stitch and Snack, teen craft meetup, Fridays, 4 p.m. in the Trustees Room. Bring a knitting or craft project, or just snack and talk crafts. Supplies and snacks provided. Email Emily at esouza@rockportlibrary.org with questions, snack requests, or food allergies. For middle and high school students.
Craft Saturdays, 10 a.m., a new craft each week at the craft table in the Children’s Room. No registration required.
Transient moorings
The Gloucester Harbormaster’s Office is taking reservations for the 30 transient moorings in the Inner Harbor, Southeast Harbor, and Western Harbor. Moorings include services and amenities such as WiFi, transient storage, floating docks, service and maintenance, as well as access to the state-of-the-art transient boaters lounge and launch services. A waitlist is also available. To reserve moorings through Columbus Day weekend, visit https://bit.ly/43DLyTQ.
EMT training
Beauport Ambulance Service Inc. is offering EMT basic training at a new training center at its office at 19 Pond Road in Gloucester. Classes typically run Wednesdays from 6-10 p.m. and Saturdays, 8 a.m. to noon. Signups are ongoing for the 144-hour course incorporating lectures and hands-on skills practice. Those who are interested in the course or who have questions can reach out to Beauport Ambulance Service’s education coordinator at sclark@beauportambulanceservice.com.
Backyard Growcery
The Backyard Growcery is Gloucester’s new farmers market, running every Wednesday through Oct. 16, from 2:30-6:30 p.m. at Burnham’s Field in Gloucester. Managed by food equity non-profit Backyard Growers, it features small-scale North Shore farmers, bakers, fresh Gloucester seafood, an artisanal pizza maker, and more. SNAP and Senior Coupons are accepted. Accessible via CATA bus, it’s near the Sheedy Park stop on the Gloucester Crossing & Business Express Loop. Visit backyardgrowers.org to learn more and purchase tickets.
Manchester seniors
MANCHESTER-BY-THE-SEA — September is a harvest of happenings for Manchester seniors.
These are all out-of-town events, so all require you to quickly reserve your seat on the senior van. Call the Council on Aging at 978-526-7500, or stop by the office, at 10 Central St., Manchester.
Trip to Castle Island and lunch at Sullivan’s, Wednesday, Sept. 18. Trip to Castle Island and hotdogs or seafood at Sullivan’s. See South Boston houses Fort Independence, a five-bastioned, granite fort built between 1834 and 1851. Van pick up 10:30 a.m. Return around 2 p.m
Lobster Roll lunch, Tuesday, Sept. 24, catered by Jeff’s Variety of Gloucester. With a choice of chicken salad roll, potato chips and cookie includd. Pick up your lunch up at the COA office, 10 Central St. at 12:15 p.m. or we can deliver. Lobster $14, chicken &6, To the first fifty who sign up. Drop advance payment off or mail a check to the Council on Aging, 10 Central Street, Manchester, MA 01944. Call 978-526-7500 by Sept. 19 to register.
Trip to Beverly’s China Jade Restaurant, Friday, Sept. 20. Enjoy Asian cuisine, then head to Dollar Tree for shopping. Van pick-up starts around 11 a.m. Return by 1:30 p.m.
Monthly mystery ride, Wednesday, Sept. 25. Bring your appetite for food and fun and hop on board the senior van. The driver will whisk you off to an unknown destination on the North Shore for ice cream, pastries, sandwiches or all of the above. Senior van pick-up starts/returns by 2 p.m.
Trip to Merrimack Valley Quilt Show, Friday, Sept. 27. 150-plus quilts vendors, food, penny raffle, silent auction, demonstrations, boutique. Senior van pick up 10 a.m. / Return around 2 p.m. $10 admission at door. Call as above to reserve your seat.
Chorus auditions
Auditions for for singers for the 2024 Chorus are set for Sept. 23, under the direction of the new director of the Cape Ann Symphony Chorus, multi-talented musician Brittany Betts. If interested, please contact Betts at brittanybetts@gmail.com. Rehearsals will be Wednesdays, through Nov. 20, from 7-9 p.m. at St. Paul Lutheran Church, 1123 Washington St. in Lanesville, along with two rehearsals with the orchestra during the week of the concerts. The Cape Ann Symphony 2024 Holiday Pops Concerts are Saturday, Nov. 30, 2 p.m. at Dolan Performing Arts Center, Ipswich High School, Ipswich; and Saturday, Nov. 30, at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 1, at 2 p.m., at Manchester Essex Regional High School in Manchester-by-the-Sea.
Creativebug
ROCKPORT — The Rockport Public Library has Creativebug, an online database that offers more than 1,000 videos by artists and professionals detailing a wide variety of art and crafts projects for all ages. Videos cover painting, ceramics, knitting, quilting, jewelry-making, party crafts, and more. Some crafts can be learned in a single video, or skills can be honed over multiple videos. To get started, visit www.rockportlibrary.org, go to home page, enter your library card number and email address. After that, you’ll only need to enter your card number to get crafting! Questions? 978-546-6934.
Indigenous Cape Ann
Cape Ann Museum is presenting its exhibition of local indigenous artifacts from Cape Ann, on view in the downtown campus, 27 Pleasant St., Gloucester. The display also includes selections from the Annisquam Historical Society. For admission and information, visit www.capeannmuseum.org/event.
At Rose Baker
The Gloucester Council on Aging’s Rose Baker Senior Center has a full schedule of fun, free special events in store as we move into fall, as well as regular recurring activities listed in our monthly newsletter, Coastline News. To have Coastline News delivered to your home, call 978-325-5814. All events require pre-registration by calling 978-325-5812 or by signing up in-person at the Rose Baker front desk, Monday through Friday between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m.
Monday Fun Day Bus Trips: Sept. 23, trip to Salem Willows, lunch optional. Sept. 30, trip to Liberty Tree Mall, lunch at Wendy’s in Danvers Wendy’s. All trips leave Rose Baker at 10 a.m./ return around 1:30 p.m.
Pottery Sale
Cynthia Curtis Pottery presents its 2024 Student & Studio Potter Sale, Oct. 19-20, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., 80 Pigeon Hill St., Rockport. The public is invited to a reception with the artists on Saturday, Oct. 19, from 4-6 p.m. A wide variety of student and studio potters’ ceramic pieces will be on sale, at prices you will appreciate! Curtis, who is celebrating 25 years of teaching and making pottery in Rockport, will be showing her own distinctive work in her gallery. For more information, email CynthiaCurtisPottery@gmail.com or visit cynthiacurtispottery.com.