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.
Cove cookout
ROCKPORT— Pigeon Cove Circle will hold a cookout Saturday, Sept. 23, from 4 to 9 p.m., at 6 Breakwater Ave, Rockport, to support the Pigeon Cove Circle building fund. Tickets are $22, and include a hamburger, an Impossible’ burger or your choice of a chicken or salmon sandwich, as well as your choice of baked beans; potato, macaroni, or cucumber salad. Advance ticket sales are available by calling Mary Jane at 978-546-2500; or Lynda at 978-578-4201; or Gail at 617-967-5446.
DECA car wash
ROCKPORT — Student members of Rockport High School’s DECA club are hosting a car wash Saturday, Sept. 30, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Advance Auto Parts, 146 Eastern Ave. in Gloucester. They are accepting donations.
Communion, Penance prep
The Catholic Community of Gloucester & Rockport offers a creative and innovative way for children to prepare for the Sacraments of Penance & Reconciliation (Confession) and First Holy Communion. Families are invited to attend one of six weekend Masses, including attending scheduled “Family Masses” throughout the year. Secondly, all second-graders and their parents or guardian) are asked to attend six Faith and Family Workshops and six Young Disciple’s Workshops. Each Faith & Family Workshop will be held in Our Lady of Good Voyage Hall for parents and children. And the Young Disciple’s Workshops will be held in Our Lady’s School at 13 Mt. Vernon St. where the children will gather with Betsy Works, catechists and other volunteers. The children’s preparation for the sacraments will include learning about the Mass and the Bible; reading from children’s literature; and engaging in hands-on activities with crafts, food art, music, dance and prayer.
All parents of students eligible for First Holy Communion (second grade and up) are invited to a First Holy Communion Family Meeting & Mass on Sunday, Sept. 24, at 11 a.m. in Our Lady of Good Voyage Church, 142 Prospect St. in Gloucester. At this meeting, parents can submit a registration form and will receive the workshop schedule and materials for the program.
Those with questions or seeking more information may contact Father Jim at frjim@ccgronline.com or Betsy Works at bworks@ccgronline.com.
Dance at MAGMA
On Saturday, Sept. 23, at 7:30 p.m., Dawn Pratson returns to MAGMA, (Movement Arts Gloucester MA), 11 Pleasant St., Gloucester, with her collaborators for an evening of dance and music called “Now and Again.”
The evening includes three works: a dance and music improvisation by the group Locomotors; a duet choreographed by Cantor called “Armchair Duet,”; and a solo by Cantor called “Hidden Stories.” Locomotors is a music and dance group inspired by eurhythmics and open-form jazz improvisation.
The group also has a special interest in the somatic connection between sound and movement, using that connection as a basis for artistic creation and exploration. The core members are Michael Joviala, piano and composition, and Dawn Pratson, dance and choreography.
The group has been in residence as part of a pilot program of the New York Chapter of the Dalcroze Society of America during the calendar-year of 2023. Some of that work has been collected on a Youtube playlist.
Admission is $20. For more information, visit:https://joviala.com/jovialaworks/locomotors/.
Tavern tales
In commemoration of the Gloucester 400+, Gloucester Stage Company commissioned a new work, “Tall Tales From Blackburn Tavern,” which runs through Sept. 24. The play was written by John Minigan and directed by Bryn Boice. The mission of this work is to pay homage to the city’s rich folklore and history spanning more than 400 years. The play brings to life legendary tales deeply rooted in Gloucester’s past, featuring iconic characters and events shaping the community. Those tales include the story about the Gloucester sea serpent, the “Ghost Army thwarted by the brave Ebenezer Babson,” and the secrets of the Witches of Dogtown. The production at Gloucester Stage includes the use of projections and puppetry. For details and tickets, visit gloucesterstage.org.
Spirit medium
Back by popular demand and open to the public is an afternoon with Kevin Coan, world-famous spirit medium, at the Gloucester Fraternity Club, 27 Webster St. on Saturday, Sept. 23, from 2 to 4 p.m. Doors open at 1 pm. Bring a relative or a friend and one picture of a loved one and maybe get an amazing reading. Complimentary light refreshments will be served and a 50/50 raffle will be available. Tickets are $30 at the door, at the GFC bar, or by contacting Joanna at 978-729-2571.
At Sawyer Free
This month is packed with programming and events at Sawyer Free Library’s temporary 21 Main Street location and at other venues throughout Gloucester, as well as online virtual events. Unless otherwise noted, registrations and questions should be directed to: sawyerfreelibrary.org, or by calling 978-325-5500.
Open Play for ages 0-2 with caregiver, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., Thursdays, at Main Street location. Books and toys provided. No registration. Questions? jvitale@sawyerfreelibrary.org.
Saturday, Sept. 23, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. — Arthur N. Ryan Book Collection Sale — Three-day book sale at 2 Dale Ave. location. Proceeds benefit new library. Questions? bpocock@sawyerfreelibrary.org.
Wednesday, Sept. 27, 8 to 9 p.m., Author Talk with Amor Towles – NY Times bestselling author discusses his work, including including Rules of Civility, Gentleman in Moscow and The Lincoln Highway. On Zoom. Register for link at:
Thursday, Sept. 28, 3 to 4 p.m., Storytelling Improv with local author E.A. Neeves –- Learn about writing and editing and publishing. hear E.A. Neeves read sections of her YA mystery ‘After You Vanished.’ Registration required at: moneill@sawyerfreelibrary.org
Friday, Sept. 29, 3 to 4:30 p.m., 2025 Sawyer Free Library Groundbreaking – marks the beginning of the library’s renovation, modernization, and expansion. Remarks, ceremonial groundbreaking, refreshments, music and more at 2 Dale Ave. All welcome. Questions? www.sawyerfreelibrary.org.
Saturday, Sept. 30, 10 a.m. to noon, Gloucester Literary Tour — Learn more about the literary history of Gloucester. SFL Meeting Room at 21 Main St. Questions? Contact: bpocock@sawyerfreelibrary.org
Thursdays, noon to 2 p.m., SFL Device Advice –– one-on-one appointments with Library staff to assist with tech questions. Call 978-325-5500 for appointment.
SFL Home Delivery – Can’t get to the library? Let the library come to you! let the library come to you, with free home delivery to residents of all ages with special needs, illness, or disability. Questions? Contact: moneill@sawyerfreelibrary.org or visit sawyerfreelibrary.org.
At Rockport library
ROCKPORT — Rockport Public Library, 17 School St., Rockportoffers programming for one and all. Zoom and in-person require registration on the library event calendar. Visit https://rockportlibrary.org/events/. Questions? Call 978-546-6934
Games People Play, 2 to 3:45 p.m. on Wednesdays, board game time. Laid-back afternoon for adults. Name the game, we have it so you can play it. Just drop in.
Babies and Books, 10 a.m. Thursdays, introduction to early literacy for babies 0-2 with caregivers in the Brenner Room.
Harvard Law School Legal Services Center On Zoom, 10 a.m. to noon Fridays. Help and guidance on a wide range of legal issues. Register for Zoom link at: https://rockportlibrary.org/events/
We Craft!, 10 a.m. on Saturdays, at craft table in the Children’s Room with new craft supplied weekly. No registration required
Free Play for ages 0 to 5, 10 a.m. on Mondays, with caregivers in the Brenner Room! Play materials provided.
LEGOs and Crafting, 3:15 to 4:15 p.m. on Mondays, in the air-conditioned Brenner Room with the library’s LEGOs and crafting supplies. Kids under 0 with caregiver. Register at: https://rockportlibrary.org/events/.
Preschoolers’ Storytime, 10 to 10:30 a.m. on Tuesdays, with Miss Emily and caregivers in the Brenner Room for stories and songs.
Essex Regional Social Worker Open Office Hours, 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. second and fourth Tuesday of the month, with Jessie Palm, Social Worker, in the Trustees Room. All welcome to seek support, information or resource referrals in a confidential setting. No appointment necessary.
Tuesdays at Two Movie Matinee, 2 p.m. on Tuesday, in Brenner Room.
Hopper at CAM
“Edward Hopper & Cape Ann: Illuminating an American Landscape” in 2023 — the first exhibition dedicated to Hopper’s formative development on Cape Ann is now running now at the Cape Ann Museum in Gloucester and through Oct. 16, and is presented in collaboration with the Whitney Museum of American Art. The exhibition features 65 works culled from the Whitney, the Brooklyn Museum, the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, National Gallery of Art, The Philadelphia Museum of Art and 23 other institutions and private lenders. Timed-entry tickets will be required for the Hopper show and are sale at www.capeannmuseum.org. Admission, which includes both “Edward Hopper & Cape Ann” and general museum entry is adults $23; Cape Ann residents, seniors, and students, $18; and youth younger than 18 are free.
Museum, zoo passes
Funded by the Friends, the Sawyer Free Library, 21 Main St., offers library cardholders passes to many local cultural attractions. To reserve library passes to the Boston Children’s Museum, Cape Ann Museum, Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, Maritime Gloucester Museum, Museum of Fine Arts, Museum of Science, Peabody Essex Museum, New England Aquarium, Sargent House Museum and Zoo New England, library patrons should visit sawyerfreelibrary.org. 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.
Tai chi
ROCKPORT— Five Circles Tai Chi class is led by teachers Fayette Severance and Amy Seabrook with Kasha Gula assisting. They lead the practice each Wednesday, 10 to 11:30 a.m., at the Rockport First Congregational Church, 12 School St. A suggested donation of $7 pays for use of the church. The circling movements of tai chi help us to incrementally align our muscles between our left and right sides to create more stability and balance. Email Amy at seabrookarts@gmail.com for more information.
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.
Water tips
Tips from the Massachusetts Water Resources Commission on ways to conserve water apply to Cape Ann: Limit lawn watering, maintain healthy soils, choose native plants or plants and turf that need less water, use mulch to reduce evaporation and moderate soil temperature, leave grass clippings on lawns to shade and return nutrients to soil, sweep driveways, walkways, patios and other outdoor areas with a broom rather than hosing them off. Wash vehicles using a bucket and sponge employing a hose with a shut off nozzle for rinsing only, or, if available, use a commercial car wash that recycles water (most do), cover swimming pools when not in use to prevent evaporation. Choose high-efficiency plumbing products and appliances. never let the water run, use water-saving showerheads, wash only full loads of laundry and dishes, fix leaky faucets, toilets and pipes, compost instead of using garbage disposal.
Drum circle
ROCKPORT — Every Wednesday from 2 to 4 p.m. a Drum Circle will be held at The Performance Room at Whale’s Jaw Cafe. Drum Circles have been known to be a healing and growth event for all who join the circle. So bring a drum or percussion instrument and join the group led by Dickie Newport at the cafe, 17 Railroad Ave. in Rockport.
Walk challenge
Registration is now open for Rockport and Manchester residents to enter the “Walk Massachusetts Challenge.” Stay healthy and win prizes for yourself and your Council on Aging. There are six challenges for different fitness levels, running through Oct. 31. As you complete each, you are entered into a drawing for a gift card. For each person who completes their challenge, their respective Council on Aging gets an entry to win up to $1,000 for fitness programing. To register, visit: walkmachallenge.com. For those who want to walk but don’t have access to a computer, the Council on Aging can help you with that. Eligible for Massachusetts residents 18 years old and up.
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.
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.
More 400+ tours
A project of the 400th+ Literary Committee, a Gloucester Literary Walking Tour has been scheduled on Saturday, Sept. 30. The tour is from 10 a.m. to noon, starting at Sawyer Free Library’s temporary location, 21 Main St., rain or shine. Home to great writers including the late 17th century feminist poet and writer Judith Sargent Murray, the 20th century’s Nobel Prize-winning poet T.S. Eliot, and Charles Olson and Vincent Ferrini who maintained a poetic dialogue, and Rudyard Kipling who wrote “Captains Courageous’ here. Henry Wordsworth Longfellow wrote “The Wreck of the Hesperus.’ Learn all about them and more with local literary raconteur Phil Storey who leads the tour, which is free, though donations will be gratefully accepted. Reservations are recommended at https://www.gloucesterma400.org/event/literary-gloucester-a-walking-tour/.
Goetemann Residency events
This September’s Goetemann Resident is sculptor and installation artist Julia Shepley’s whose work references the changing effects of light and shadow on natural and built environments revealing shared structures and patterns. Working in photography, wood, ink and other mixed media, she pieces together multiple observational viewpoints, her work evokes shifts of natural forces and human attachment.
Shepley, who will create on-site artwork at Ocean Alliance inspired by investigation into its whale research, as well as from the study of patterns of light and shadow at the ocean’s edge, will be available for an in-person presentation at Ocean Alliance, 32 Horton St., Rocky Neck, on Thursday, Oct. 5, 5:30 p.m. It is free to the public.
Shepley will also host several open studio hours, to be posted on rockyneckartcolony.org.
Story-telling workshop
Gloucester Writers Center, 126 East Main St., invites you to build your skills and discover tips for telling a great 5-minute story in two intensive workshops. Learn about detail, stakes, point of view, and more, from expert storyteller Laila Goodman in this intimate workshop on Sept. 28 and Oct. 5, from 6 to 8 p.m., via Zoom. Suggested donation is $10. For more information and to register, visit gloucesterwriters.org.
Ladies Bible Study
A 5-week Ladies’ Bible study, “Anointed, Transformed, Redeemed” led by Rev. Rebecca (Willette) Keefe runs Wednesdays through Oct. 1 at Gloucester Assembly of God Church, 211 Washington St., Gloucester. No church affiliation is needed and all are welcome. Times are 10 to 11:30 a.m. and 6 to 6:30 p.m. Questions? Contact keefe93@comcast.net.
Vendors needed
Vendors are needed for The FinnFunn Marketplace on Oct. 28, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., at Gloucester High School gym, being hosted by the Cape Ann Finns with Gloucester 400+. A variety of vendors including those who offer Nordic-inspired goods are being sought; spaces are $35 each and table rental is $25. Apply by Oct. 1. The FinnFunn Marketplace takes place during the 31st Annual FinnFunn New England Weekend (finnfunn.org). Email capeannfinns@gmail.com or call 202-420-8548 for an application.
AGH art at CAM
Since its opening in 1897, Addison Gilbert Hospital has amassed over 300 works in its extensive and impressive art collection, including oil paintings, watercolors and prints. A selection of these are on view at the Cape Ann Museum Green (CAM Green), through Oct. 8. Most artists featured have worked on Cape Ann during the 20th century. Several on view in the Janet & William Ellery James Center include Alice Beach Winter (1877-1968); Louise Upton Brumback (1867-1929), Bertha Peyton (1871-1947), Vera Andrus (1895-1979), a printmaker, painter and book illustrator. There are also works by Annisquam watercolorist Harry Gage (1887-1982), who served as chair of the Cape Ann Arts Council. Historic artifacts and photographs from the hospital are also featured at CAM Green, 13 Poplar St., off Grant Circle, open Fridays and Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays, 1 to 4 p.m. and is free to the public.
Symphony season
MANCHESTER-BY-THE-SEA — Cape Ann Symphony launches its 72nd concert season Sunday, Oct. 1, at 2 p.m. at Manchester Essex Regional High School Auditorium, 36 Lincoln St. in Manchester-by the-Sea. The season debt will have pieces never before played by the orchestra, featuring world-renowned guest artists: pianist Janice Weber, gospel vocal sensation Renese King and Boston Symphony Orchestra violinist Lucia Lin. Music Director and Conductor Yoichi Udagawa opens the season with “French Spectacular” featuring the works of Lili Boulanger, Claude Debussy and Maurice Ravel. The New World Chorale joins with “Debussy Nocturnes,” and the concert closes with Ravel’s beloved “Bolero.” For information and subscriptions for this French Spectacular concert (tickets: $45, adults; $40, senior citizens; $20, students with valid Student ID; $5 for 12 and younger), call 978-281-0543 or visit www.capeannsymphony.org
Folk art exhibition
MANCHESTER-BY-THE-SEA — Johanne Cassia, local award-winning, American folk artist will feature her folk paintings depicting American life and traditions in earlier times during September in Santander Bank, 17 Union St. in Manchester-by-the-Sea. View her work at Johannecassia.com, Oldeipswich.com., or at museum shops including John Adams National Historic Museum, Quincy. Questions? 978-526-9096.
Nordic Marketplace
Local and regional merchants invite the public to the free FinnFunn Marketplace to be held in the Gloucester High School gymnasium on Saturday, Oct. 28, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Enjoy live music as you browse a variety of goods, including Nordic items, and catch up with old friends and new. The marketplace or Finnish tori is part of the 31st FinnFunn New England Weekend — Cape Ann (finnfunn.org) hosted by the Cape Ann Finns partnered with Gloucester 400+ which spotlights Gloucester’s ethnic groups as shapers of Gloucester over time. Questions and vendor inquiries? Call 202-420-8548.
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.
Exchange open
The Annisquam Exchange, 32 Leonard St., Annisquam Village, Gloucester, closes for the 2023 season on Oct. 8. Hours are Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more information, visit www.annisquamexchange.com.
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.
‘View From Above’
ROCKPORT — Sheffield Chamber Players return to Windhover Center for the Performing Arts in Rockport to present “A View From Above” featuring a world premiere string quartet by American composer Kevin Day alongside works by Joseph Haydn and Lexington-based composer Christine Southworth. The concert is on Thursday, Oct. 19, at 7 p.m. Tickets are $25 general admission, $20 student/senior at at windhover.org.
Cribbage
Cribbage nights return to the Magnolia Library Center. Play takes place Wednesdays, 6 to 8 p.m. Players are asked to be a library member. For more information, email dotsieradzki@gmail.com.
A local Gloucester-based cribbage league is looking for new members. The 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.
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.
Creativebug
ROCKPORT — The Rockport Public Library has added Creativebug to its list of online databases. Creativebug 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.
Tower restoration
Severely wind-damaged, the bell tower of Our Lady of Good Voyage Church needs restoration. Home to historic carillon bells, repairs held up through the winter, but necessary, permanent structural restorationhas begun. American Steeple of Salem is repairing the towers and replace the roof. Insurance will cover some cost, but at least $150,000 is needed to fully restore the tower. Donations can be made at ccgronlineolgv.churchgiving.com or mailed to Our Lady of Good Voyage Parish, 74 Pleasant St., Gloucester, MA 01930. Questions? Call 978-281-4820 or email frjim@ccgronline.com.
Treasurer needed
The Gloucester High School Alumni Scholarship Fund’s treasurer of close to 30 years is resigning from this volunteer position. If you are an organized graduate of Gloucester High School with experience in record keeping, accounting, tech skills, and enjoy helping deserving students, you are who the fund needs. Please contact GHS Alumni Scholarship Fund Chairperson Janet Linsky Lemnah at w8_watcher@hotmail.com or call 978-317-6059.
Farmers Market
ROCKPORT — The Rockport Farmers Market is in Harvey Park every Saturday through Oct. 14 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., with an extra hour added to make sure you have plenty of time to shop and meet all the vendors. Enjoy fresh, local produce, artisanal crafts, fresh flowers, and baked goods. The market now accept SNAP payments on behalf of eligible vendors, and SNAP customers can receive a dollar-for-dollar match for up to $10 per market. Short term parking options are available. For more information, stop by the Farmers Market Booth or email us at rockportexchange01966@gmail.com.
Blood drives
Our Lady of Good Voyage, 142 Prospect St., Gloucester, and the American Red Cross are hosting a blood drive in the church’s Parish Hall on Monday, Sept. 25 and Oct. 23, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Register for an appointment at https://www.redcrossblood.org/give.html/drive-results?zipSponsor=Gloucester. Drive contact is the Rev. Jim Achadinha at 978-281-4820 or frjim@ccgronline.com.
At Manchester library
MANCHESTER — Manchester-by-the-Sea Public Library’s has a full schedule to take you through the fall. Please find its programs on the website: https://www.manchesterpl.org/events/.
Cape Ann Finns
Cape Ann Finns is looking to expand its membership. Dues are waived for 2023 (thereafter $10 annually). Join Cape Ann Finns, a group of 290-plus open to everyone curious about this ethnic group’s heritage and contributions to shaping Cape Ann since the mid-1800s. An application and information about CAF is at www.capeannfinns.com. Or email your name and email address to capeannfinns@gmail.com. Or call 202-420-8548.
500 Club
Gloucester AMVETS Post 32 is offering the chance to win 14 prizes, totaling $1,100 in one night. AMVETS Post 32’s 500 Club, which raises money for the organization’s scholarship fund, has openings. The club is open to the public and only 500 tickets or numbers are available at a cost of $5 each. Drawings are held monthly when the numbers for ten $20 winners, one $50, one $100, one $250 and one $500 winner are announced. If a number is pulled for a smaller award, it is thrown back in the bucket and is eligible for all other drawings. Many members hold onto their same numbers for months or years. It costs $60 to hold a number for a year. Members need not be present and will be notified be mail if they win. Anyone wishing to buy a number may do so at the club or by phone (978-283-9738). Checks may be made out to Friends of AMVETS and be sent to AMVETS 500 Club, 14 Prospect St., Gloucester, MA 01930. The drawings are held on the last Monday of the month at 5:30 p.m. upstairs in the Amvets building at 14 Prospect St. Gloucester.
Open Mic Nights
The Gloucester Writers Center holds open mic nights the first Monday of the month at 7:30 p.m., 126 East Main St., Gloucester. Come early to sign up, enjoy refreshments and camaraderie with other writers. Bring five minutes of work to share! GWC open mics are low-key, supportive opportunities to share your work with peers in a comfortable setting. As always, parking is at Chapel Street + North Shore Arts, just down the road.
Essex seniors
ESSEX — The Essex Council on Aging offers a variety of events and trips for seniors. For more information or to sign up for an event, please call the office at 978-768-7932 or visit the Senior Center, 17 Pickering St., where, unless otherwise noted, all events will take place at the Senior Center.
Games with Gil, 1 p.m. Wednesdays . Try your hand at board games and you’ll never be board, Scrabble, Boggle, Cribbage, Backgammon and more.
Arts & Crafts, 1 p.m., Tuesdays.
Computer and tech help with Curt, 1 to 3 p.m., Wednesdays . Assistance with computer, tablet, phone, etc. Drop-in, no reservations required.
Hearing Wellness, 10:30 am., Second Wednesdays of the month, — meets as a group with new focus each month.
Balance in motion, 10 a.m., Tuesdays and Fridays, $5 donation requested.
Groove Fitness Video, 9:30 a.m., Mondays. Get your dancing shoes on and join this fun, energetic dance class! Video, no instructor.
Monthly Book Club, 1 p.m., last Tuesday of each month. Join us for a lively discussion about the current book of the month and other topics. Multiple copies available to borrow but must be returned. New members welcome.
FinnFunn
A public event on Oct. 27 to 29, partners Gloucester 400+ and the Cape Ann Finns present 2023 FinnFunn New England Weekend to spotlight the Finnish community on Cape Ann as part of G400+’s initiative to call attention to the ethnic groups that helped shape Gloucester. Residents and people living nearby who are curious about the early Finns and American Finns clustered back of the Cape in Lanesville, Pigeon Cove and Rockport, their culture, and Finland will find engaging program choices at their Gloucester and Rockport doorsteps as well as discover similarities among Cape Ann’s immigrant groups. Go to finnfun.org for complete details and registration online or by telephone for weekend, day, and/or single events.
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.
Update from Israel
Lappin Foundation invites the community to an “Update from Israel” with Ambassador Ido Aharoni, who will talk about Israel’s current crisis, root causes and possible solutions, on Thursday, Oct. 19, from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Zoom. The program is free thanks to funding from the Dr. David M. Milch Foundation. Everyone is welcome to attend. Register at LappinFoundation.org. For more information, contact Sharon Wyner at 978-565-4450 or email swyner@lappinfoundation.org.
Adventure Sail
The 97th Anniversary Celebrate Adventure Sail has been rescheduled to Tuesday, Sept. 26, from 4 to 6:30 p.m. This sail commemorates the historic schooner’s launching from the shipyard in Essex on Sept. 16, 1926, and you’re invited to celebrate onboard with musical entertainment by folk artists Larry Young and John Roberts, with Jeff’s Variety lobster rolls, birthday cupcakes from Cake Ann and beverages included. A cannon salute in honor of the Gloucester 400+ and the Taste of Cape Ann raffle drawing will round out the fun. Tickets are $97; children 18 and younger $49 at https://schooner-adventure.starboardsuite.com/e/special-event-625.
Safety Day
Gloucester Community Safety Day will be held Oct. 14, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Harbor Loop.
Essex library
ESSEX — TOHP Burnham Library, 30 Martin St., Essex, warms up for winter with a full house of activities to see you through the fall. Open weekdays till 7 p.m., Saturday, 10 a.m. to noon. For all event requiring registration, sign up at essexpl.org/events. Questions? 978)-768-7410.
Wednesday, Oct. 4, 9 a.m., Wee Ones Story time — ages 0-2 years enjoy 20 minutes of songs, rhymes, stories and creative play! Drop-ins welcome. Register at https://essexpubliclibrary.org/kids/story-hour/
Wednesday, Oct. 4, 10 a.m., Preschool Story Time for ages 3, 4 and 5 years— 30 minutes of songs, rhymes and stories with a themed craft. Drop-ins welcome. Or register a; https://essexpubliclibrary.org/kids/story-hour/
Wednesdays, 9 a.m., to 1 p.m., ,Regional Social Worker Essex Office Hours, 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.
‘Matter of Balance’
SeniorCare, in conjunction with the Beverly Council on Aging, is offering “A Matter of Balance,” an 8-week free workshop on Mondays, Oct. 16 to Dec. 4, from 10 a.m. to noon at the Beverly Senior Center, 90 Colon St. in Beverly. This free workshop focusses on educating and supporting older adults around falling and the fear of falling. Through group discussion, practical strategies and light exercising, older adults will reduce the fear and risk of falling, helping them to stay active and involved. For information and to register, contact Abby Considine at 978-281-1750 or Abby.Considine@seniorcareinc.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.
Stories and fun
Gloucester’s Sawyer Free Library hosts Stories and Fun with Children’s Librarian Christy Rosso on Wednesdays from 11:15 a.m. to noon at Movement Arts (MAGMA) 186 Main St., fifth floor. Questions? Contact crosso@sawyerfreelibrary.org.
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/events.
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.
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 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.
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