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.
Bandstand concert
The last free seaside concert of the summer series at Stage Fort Park’s Antonio Gentile Bandstand is Sunday Aug. 25 at 6:30 p.m. with Martin & Kelly Band (country western). To learn more, visit www.DavidLBenjamin.com or telephone 978-281-2286. Parking’s free, bandstand located on Hough Avenue, Gloucester. Restrooms are handicap accessible. Bring lawn seating.
At Gloucester Stage
Revolutionary Iran sets the stage for Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Sanaz Toossi’s “Wish You Were Here” at Gloucester Stage Company, 367 East Main St. in Gloucester, through Sunday, Aug. 25. Directed by Melory Mirashrafi, this play draws the audience into the lives and loves pf a circle of tight-knit Iranian girlfriends as they gather to plan weddings, trade dirty jokes, and try to hang onto a sense of normalcy as protests are breaking out all around them. For tickets and complete information about “Wish You Were Here,” visit: https://gloucesterstage.com/wish-you-were-here/.
At Windhover
ROCKPORT — At Windhover Center for the Performing Arts, evenings are for performances on the outdoor tented stage and in the studio and chapel. Access tickets, information and a line-up of what’s in store this month at the performing arts center, 257R Granite St. by visiting https://windhover.org/ Or call 978-546-3611.
Lanes Coven Theater Company’s “The Servant of Two Masters,” through Sept 8. An adaptation by Carlo Goldoni of a 1746 commedia-del-arte play.
Club coffee
ROCKPORT — The Sandy Bay Yacht Club, 5 T Wharf, hosts a coffee every Sunday morning from 9:30-11 that is open to the public. Folks can to check out the club and get questions answered.
Meet schooner captain
All are welcome to meet Capt, Christa Miller-Shelley, captain of the schooner Adventure, along with three other inspirational women leaders who will speak, discuss and share their experiences Monday, Aug. 26, from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Kyrouz Auditorium in City Hall, 9 Dale Ave. This event is free, and if you’re unable to attend, you can meet Captain Miller-Shelley on board Adventure. Schooner Festival sails may be booked at https://www.schooneradventure.org/.
Back-to-school sale
St. John’s Episcopal Church, 48 Middle St. in Gloucester, is hosting a 50% off sale on all clothing, shoes and accessories for men, women and children, as well as back-to-school and office supplies in its Regal Rummage Shop through Labor Day. The shop is open Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 10 am to 2 pm. MasterCard and Visa accepted. Free parking available at 33 Washington St{em}.
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.
Fitness with Gil, Wednesday, Sept. 4, 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., Strength and stamina through stretching, $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 to 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.
Descendants’ sails
To honor the legacy and heritage of Gloucester’s schooner fishermen, the schooner Adventure offers free sails to descendants of the men who worked, sailed, and fished on board any Gloucester schooner. If you have an ancestor or relative from Gloucester’s schooner fishery, you are a descendant and eligible for these free sails. Please call the Adventure office at 978-281-8079 to confirm descendant status and book a spot for Sept. 8, sailing at 4:30 p.m., from the Harriet Webster Pier, 23 Harbor Loop, Gloucester. Learn more at https://www.schooneradventure.org/.
At Manchester library
MANCHESTER-BY-THE-SEA — Manchester-by-the-Sea Public Library, in partnership with the Manchester-by-the-Sea Cultural Council, has lined up an exciting month for readers of all ages and interests. In-person events will be held at the library, 15 Union St. For registration and more information about events all events and programs, visit www.manchesterpl.org, or call 978-526-7711.
Summer Storytimes, for 0-3-year-olds, Wednesdays, from 10:30-11:15 a.m. with Miss Audrey.
Manchester Reads 2024 is “Space themed.” Check out space-themed books, programs for all ages, crafts and a telescope! Recommended read: “Star Splitter” by Matthew J. Kirby, which imagines a future in which travelers get from point A on Earth to point B in deep space by running themselves through a 3D printer.
Tech Advice Appointments. Register for a session at noon or 12:30 p.m. Mondays, or drop in on most Fridays between 3 and 4 p.m. Questions answered. Problems solved. Learn app for library ebooks and digital audiobooks. Register your tech question with Maddy Willwerth at 978-526-2017 or email mwillwerth@manchesterpl.org.
Children’s library
A Little Lending Library for Children is open at the Virginia Lee Burton Writing Cottage at the Lanesville Community Center, 9 Vulcan St
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/.
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.
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/.
Canned food drive
It’s 14 years since people first tentatively gathered at the western end of Stacy Boulevard to light candles for beloved lives lost to drug overdoses. Now called the Luminaries & Love display, it has become an end-of-summer community ritual. Today, the luminaries number over a thousand. Originally anchored by sand, they are now anchored by cans of food contributed by the community for ultimate donation to The Open Door. Last year, that translated into some 1,149 pounds of food. Can collection boxes are at Cape Ann Lanes, 53 Gloucester Ave., Cape Ann YMCA, 7 Gloucester Crossing Road, Middlesex Recovery, 61 Prospect St., and the West Gloucester Trinitarian Church, 488 Essex Ave., all in Gloucester, until Sunday, Aug. 25. The Luminaries & Love event takes place Monday, Aug. 26, 6:30-8:30 p.m. near the flag pole area on Stacy Boulevard.
Giving back
During August, Shaw’s will donate $1 to SeniorCare for every “Give Back Where It Counts” shopping bag sold at Shaw’s, located at 127 Eastern Ave. in Gloucester.
Fish Tales Gala
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 6-week workshop is for caregivers of memory-impaired recipients. It meets via Zoom weekly Mondays, Sept. 9 to 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.
Parade of Lights
Boaters are wanted to take part in the annual Boat Parade of Lights during the Schooner Festival. The parade will be Saturday, Aug. 31, and begin motoring down the Annisquam River at 7:15 p.m. before going around the harbor. Boaters are asked to assemble and register with one of Parade Committee Boats at Jones Creek from 6:45-7 p.m., then monitor VHF Channel 6 to stay in touch. Boaters and crew may post a selfie with the Boat Parade of Lights Facebook page with a description of the boat’s theme. Judges will be on the Hurricane II off the Coast Guard Station Gloucester, and the parade will pass them twice on the route along the harbor. Awards will be announced by the judges on Channel 6 after the parade. The Blynman Bridge will stay open, unless there is an emergency; bridge tenders are on VHF Channel 13.
Celebrity medium
Gloucester Fraternity Club, 27 Webster St. invites you to spend an afternoon with Kevin Coan, celebrity spirit medium, on Saturday, Sept. 14, from 2-4 p.m. Doors open at 1 p.m. Bring relatives and friends and one picture (per ticket) of a loved one and maybe get an amazing reading. Complimentary light refreshments will be served and 50/50 raffle will be available. Tickets are $30, available at the club bar, at the door, or by calling Joanna, 978-729-2571.
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.
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.
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.
Literary tours
The free Literary Gloucester Walking tours started in 2023 under the auspices of the Gloucester 400+ Literary Committee, and were so popular, they are continuing under the sponsorship of the Gloucester Writers Center on Saturdays, Sept. 7 and 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.
Music on the Green
Music on Meetinghouse Green is underway with another summer of great free music concerts Fridays from 6 to 8:30 p.m. through Sept. 6. Concerts will be held on the green in front of the Gloucester Unitarian Universalist Church at the corner of Middle and Church streets. In the event of rain, concerts will move indoors. Each concert features a different musical ensemble and benefits a local non-profit organization through 100% of the donations from the audience. Bring lawn seating and an appetite for some great picnic eats from local catering trucks. Details, www.gloucestermeetinghouse.org/summer-concerts.
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.
Adult matinee, Tuesdays at 4:15 p.m. in August.
Summer Tuesdays kids’ film fun, 4:15 to 6:30 p.m., following adult matinee, a family-friendly film. Cool off and have fun with adventures, characters, and stories.
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.
Saturday Family Fun Movie Marathon, Saturday, Aug. 24, 10:15 a.m. to 4:45 p.m., in the Brenner, Trustees and Children’s Rooms.
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.
Magnolia Cribbage is on hiatus for the summer, returning after Labor Day. For more information, email dotsieradzki@gmail.com.
Arts Alive
Cape Ann Arts Alive is a fun-filled choral and arts program for kids and teen mentors based at St. John’s Episcopal Church, Middle Street, Gloucester, through Aug. 23. From 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. kids will be learning and singing about the “Rocky Veins of Granite Grains — the 400 million year story” with excursions to Cape Ann Museum & Halibut Point State Park Visitors Center. There are openings for kids ages 6-12. Registration, information and photos, visit www.capeannartsalive.org for details and photos, or call Kristina Martin, 978-509-4995.
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.
GHS 1969 reunion
Gloucester High School Class of 1969 will hold its 55th reunion Oct. 19, at the Castle Manor Inn, 141 Essex Ave,, Gloucester, from 6-10 p.m. with cocktail hour, dinner buffet, and DJ Leo Francis for $70 per person. If you or someone you know has not received notice, or has any questions, contact Linda O’Maley Martin at lilomartin@comcast.net or 978 281-0670. Checks are payable to GHS Class of 1969 and mailed to Linda O’Maley Martin, 3 High Popples Road, Gloucester, MA 01930 by Sept. 1 .
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. Reservations fill up quickly for high traffic dates: weekends, and Labor Day weekend (Aug. 30 to Sept. 2). 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.
Mystery ride, Wednesday, Aug. 28. Pack an appetite for fun and food an get onboard the van bound for mystery destination on the North Shore. Pick-up starts at noon, return by 2 p.m. Reserve your seat now.
Greenbelt Walk: Vineyard Hill, Friday, Aug. 30, 10 a.m. Trip to the Greenbelt property Vineyard Hill in Hamilton. The easier Shaw Feld loop takes visitors into the forest, field. Hay grown here by a local dairy farmer. Reserve your seat now.
Breakfast trip to Rowley’s Village Pancake House, Friday Sept. 6. Van pick-up starts 9 a.m. Call as above to reserve your seat.
Trip to Salem Willows, Wednesday, Sept. 11. Sit by the water, enjoy famous Chop Suey sandwiches at the re-opened Salem Lowe or ice cream at Hobbs. Check out the Clam Shack and arcade. Van pick-up starts 11 a.m. Return around 2 p.m. Call as above to reserve your seat.
Trip to Castle Island and lunch at Sullivan’s, Wednesday, Sept. 18. Trip to Castle Island and lunch 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. Call as above to reserve your seat.
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. Call as above to reserve your seat.
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. Call as above to reserve your seat.
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.
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, Saturdays, Sept. 7, 14, and 21. Babson Farm quarrying history guided tour, 10-11 a.m. Meet at parking area. Ages 8 and up.
Birding Basics Walk, Sunday, Sept. 15, 8 to 10 a.m. Watch and listen for species in the fields, woodland’s and ocean’s edges. Learn about bird songs, habits, fight patterns. Extraordinary views. Binoculars a plus. Rain or shine. All ages, meet Meet at parking area.
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.
Rescue Gloucester 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.
Gloucester GrowDown
Backyard Growers will celebrate its ninth annual Great Gloucester GrowDown at Oak to Ember, 9 Rogers St, Gloucester, on Sept.12, 6-9 p.m. with all proceeds supporting the nonprofit’s work, increasing equitable access to the resources, space, and knowledge that Cape Ann residents need to grow their own food. Hear stories of Backyard Growers’ impact, connect with others over the joy of growing food, and enjoy delicious, farm-fresh food and drinks at Oak to Ember. Visit backyardgrowers.org for details and to and purchase tickets.
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.
Youth Chorus
ROCKPORT — Rockport Music has announced the start of a regional youth chorus, the Cape Ann Youth Chorus, for young singers ages 8-18, starting in September under the direction of Kristina Martin and Thomas Smoker. The chorus provides a comprehensive musical experience in an inclusive and supportive environment for singers ages 8 and up, with weekly rehearsals, concerts at different events, and at Shalin Liu Performance Center. Mentorship applications will be available for advanced high school singers. The vision is to provide engaging and interactive programming and encourage curiosity, participation and creativity through music and the arts. Rehearsals will be Mondays, 4 to 5:15 p.m, at the Shalin Liu, starting Sept. 9. Tuition is $300 per year and there are sliding scale scholarships available; no students will be turned away. Registration is open through the summer. For more details, visit https://rockportmusic.org/youth-chorus/ or contact Rockport Music’s Director of Education and Partnerships Elizabeth Stefan at estefan@rockportmusic.org. For more, visit rockportmusic.org or call 978-546-7391.
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.
First Light
Now on view at Cape Ann Museum Green Campus, is “1st Peoples: Portraits of the First Light,” a new exhibition of photographic narratives by Matika Wilbur of the Swinomish and Tulalip Tribes made in consultation with SmokeSygnals, a Native creative agency based in Mashpee. These contemporary photographs of the original stewards of what is now known as New England include portraits of Nipmuc, Wampanoag, Shinnecock, Passsamaquody, and Penobscot peoples, all accompanied by excerpts from conversations around identity, culture, and sovereignty. The exhibit is on view in the Janet & William Ellery James Center at the Cape Ann Museum Green (CAM Green), 13 Poplar St. in Gloucester, through Sept. 1. For more information, visit capeannmuseum.org.
SeniorCare fundraiser
Tickets and sponsorships are available for SeniorCare’s 52nd Anniversary Celebration Fundraiser on Thursday, Sept. 19, at the Shalin Liu Performance Center in Rockport. Appetizers, cocktails, a silent auction, and a salute to community leaders Gloucester’s Sunny Robinson and Beverly’s Paul J. Lanzikos. SeniorCare has spent 52 years in Beverly, Essex, Gloucester, Hamilton, Ipswich, Manchester-By-The-Sea, Rockport, Topsfield, and Wenham helping people stay in their home as they age. For details visit, www.seniorcareinc.org or 978-281-1750.
Granite and the Sea
Presented by the Jonathan Bayliss Society and its partners in Gloucester and Rockport, the “Granite and the Sea” weekend, Sept 6-8, will explore the history, nature, and arts of Cape Ann’s rocky coast with stories and music, guided walks with spectacular views, and talks about art and literature. The schedule is listed below. For more information, registration and complete details, visit visit www.jonathanbayliss.org/granite.
Quarry Stories, Friday, Sept. 6. Local storytellers revisit the impact of the Cape Ann granite-quarry industry on our lives and landscapes. Free one-hour with slideshow by Leslie Bartlett, of “Cape Ann Women in the Quarries.”
Gloucester singer Michael O’Leary performs “Of Quarries and Dories,” Saturday, Sept. 7. The songs are based on poems about quarry workers and fishermen, set to original music. With buffet dinner and historical silent auction.
“Cape Ann’s History, Art, and Literature,” Sunday, Sept. 8. This is one-hour program at Cape Ann Museum with a slideshow by Paul St. Germain and two short talks: Rebecca Reynolds on “Granite Appeal: How the Rock of Ages Inspired Artists.
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/.
100 Who Care
100 Who Care Cape Ann, a nonprofit organization, will hold its next meeting Tuesday, Sept. 17, at the Annisquam Yatch Club, 17 River Road, Gloucester. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., the meeting starts at 6 p.m. The philanthropic women in 100 Who Care Cape Ann commit to attending quarterly events and pledging $100 during the one-hour meeting, in effect raising $10,000 each time to support a Cape Ann charity. They then hear presentations from three nonprofits and choose one to receive a grant. Nominees will be announced soon. Since its founding in 2019, the group has raised more $225,049.39 to support local charitable organizations. More information may be found at 100whocarecapeann.org.
Stories under the Tree
The Lanesville Community Center welcomes kids ages 3 to 8 to perk up their ears for some wonderful story telling at the Virginia Lee Burton Writing Cottage, from 10 to 11 a.m., on Tuesday, Aug. 27. The cottage is located at the community center, 8 Vulcan Ave, Lanesville, Gloucester. Visit lanesvillecommunitycenter.
At Sawyer Free
Gloucester’s Sawyer Free Library has two special presentations coming up to put on your calendar this August, both at the library’s temporary location at 21 Main St, downtown Gloucester. Both are free and neither require registration. For more information, visit sawyerfreelibrary.org.
Open Play at the Library for ages 0 to 2 with caregivers, Thursdays, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Books and toys provided. No registration needed. Questions? jvitale@sawyerfreelibrary.org.
Stories and Fun, Wednesdays, 11:15 a.m. to noon. Children and their caregivers’ fun morning of stories, songs, rhymes, bubbles with Children’s Librarian Christy Rosso at MAGMA, 186 Main St., fifth floor. Questions? 978-325-5500.
SFL Device Advice, Thursdays, noon to 2 p.m., one-on-one appointments with a Library staff member assisting with tech issues. Call 978-325-5500 for appointment.
SFL Home Delivery, free for residents of all ages with special needs, illness, or disability. Questions? email:moneill@sawyerfreelibrary.org.
Sawyer Seed Library: Choose from a selection of vegetable, herb, and flower seeds for your own garden. The Library hopes people will explore the varieties and grow from seed to seed, enjoying the harvest and capturing seeds for future planting, or donating them back to the Seed Library. Questions? Contact: moneill@sawyerfreelibrary.org.
Comedy Night
Four of Boston’s top comedians will perform at the 18th Annual Rotary Club of Gloucester Comedy Night on Thursday, Aug. 29. Dave Rattigan returns to host Brad Mastrangelo, Jody Sloane and Jeff Koen at Cruiseport Gloucester, 6 Rowe Square, Gloucester. Rattigan, who has performed internationally and locally, will introduce Mastrangelo’s unique routine. Sloane, a Coast Guard veteran, cut her entertainment teeth doing her sit-down shtick as a cheeky “conducktor” named Penny Wise on the Boston Duck Tours. Koen’s family won $10,000 on America’s Funniest Home Videos. He’s known for playing the offensive “Uncle Rick” in the 2010 cult film “Heavy Times.” Doors open at 7 p.m. for the 8 p.m. show. Tickets are $30, available by calling or texting Mark Vadala at 978-490-0939 or emailing mark@vadalarealestate.com.
Carillon concerts
The last concert in the annual summer carillon concert series at Our Lady of Good Voyage Church, 142 Prospect St. in Gloucester, is Friday, Aug. 30 at 6:30 p.m. Installed in 1922, the carillon bells in Our Lady of Good Voyage Church were the first toned set in the United States. More information is available by emailing lpallazola@gmail.com.
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.
Friday, Aug. 26: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Ipswich Community Center, 25 Green St., Ipswich.
Tuesday, Aug. 27: 1-6 p.m., Manchester American Legion, 14 Church St., Manchester-by-the-Sea; and 2-7 p.m., Magnolia Library & Community Center, 1 Lexington Ave., Gloucester.
Thursday, Sept. 5: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Cruiseport Gloucester, 6 Rowe Square, Gloucester.
Monday, Sept. 9: 2-7 p.m., Magnolia Library & Community Center, 1 Lexington Ave., Gloucester.
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.