Following the Astronomical Society of Northern New England’s three-day Starfest in mid-September, at the Talmage Observatory at Starfield, the society will return to monthly meetings on the first Friday of each month. The next meeting will be on Friday, Oct. 6 at 7:30 p.m. at The New School, 38 York St., Kennebunk. A business meeting, also open to the public, commences at 7 p.m.

At the October meeting, the society will host a presentation by Dr. Elizabeth McGrath. Her topic will be Exploring the Growth of Galaxies in the Early Universe with the James Webb Space Telescope.

Launched on Dec. 25, 2021, the James Webb Space Telescope is revealing insights into the formation of the earliest galaxies, their growth, their super-massive black holes, the structure of galaxies at early times, and the nature of black hole seeds in these early galaxies. She will present results from the Cosmic Evolution Early Release Science survey, which confirmed one of the first record-breaking distant galaxies detected by James Webb Space Telescope, found the earliest evidence of growing super-massive black holes, and contributed to the growing evidence that disk-like, or spiral, galaxies were common in the early universe. She will also discuss the implications of these discoveries, as well as future work that will shed light on some of the mysteries revealed by the telescope.

McGrath obtained her Ph.D. from the University of Hawaii in 2007. Her thesis, titled, Formation and Evolution of Massive Galaxies and active galactic nuclei in the Early Universe, investigated the link between black hole activity and the growth of the most massive galaxies in the universe. After leaving Hawaii, she was a researcher at the University of California, Santa Cruz, where she worked on designing new adaptive optics technologies to improve the image quality of ground-based telescopes. In 2012, she joined Colby College, where she is now an associate professor of physics and astronomy.

McGrath’s current research involves examining the structure of galaxies across cosmic time using space-based facilities such as the Hubble and the James Webb Space Telescope. She is a member of several international teams that were awarded some of the first time on the telescope; surveying large regions of the sky, and producing images that were publicly available immediately. The public James Webb Space Telescope fields provide information and have been integral in many new discoveries about the universe. In her free time, McGrath enjoys spending time outdoors hiking, and sharing her love of nature with her husband and 3-year-old son.

For more information, visit www.ASNNE.org.

Graves Library offers activities

Participants are invited to a board game adventure with Miss Marina and Miss Terri on Tuesday, Oct. 10 from 3:15 to 4 p.m. at Louis T. Graves Memorial Public Library in Kennebunkport. Participants will play an assortment of old and new favorites. For children 8 and older. Space is limited and preregistration is required. For more information, call 967-2778 or visit www.graveslibrary.org.

*Firefighter Story Hour: October is Fire Prevention Month. The library will offer an event with a truck, stories, and a firefighter demonstration of putting on gear in less than two minutes. The event is scheduled for Friday, Oct. 13 at 10 a.m. Children can then practice with their own pink, red, or black helmet to take home.

Community Art Show: Graves Library will celebrate local talent and support our community artists with a showcase on Friday, Oct. 13 at 5:30 p.m. The artists at Graves Library exhibition will present a range of artistic styles and mediums including acrylic abstractions, watercolor landscapes, mixed media, and photography. Fifty percent of all proceeds benefit the library. Light refreshments will be served. Parking is available at the Village Fire Station (North Street) and Consolidated School (Route 9).

Louis T. Graves Memorial Public Library is located at 18 Maine St., Kennebunkport. For more information, call 207-967-2778 or visit www.graveslibrary.org.

HarvestFest book sale planned at Kennebunk Free Library

The Friends of the Kennebunk Free Library will have a book sale on Saturday, Oct. 14, from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in conjunction with Kennebunk’s HarvestFest. The sale will be held in Hank’s Room and outside (weather permitting).

Friends support the library by raising funds that help sponsor library programs and materials including passes to local museums and parks, summer reading programs, Kanopy streaming service, OverDrive e-content, and large print books.

For more information, call the library 207-985-2173 or email kfl@kennebunklibrary.org.

Vets Day 5K benefits Honor Flight Maine

The Wells Chamber of Commerce will host its 10th annual Wells Veterans Day 5K on Saturday, Nov. 11. Proceeds  benefit Honor Flight Maine.

Registration is $20 for adults 18 and older, $15 for students 11-17. There is no registration fee for children 10 and younger. The first 100 paying registrants will receive a long-sleeve T-shirt. The race begins at 10 a.m.

Honor Flight Maine is a nonprofit organization created to honor America’s veterans for their service and sacrifices. Honor Flight Maine transports veterans to Washington, D.C., to tour, experience and reflect at their memorials.

The run/walk starts and finishes start at the Wells Elks Lodge at 356 Bald Hill Road. The 5K loop winds through remote back roads of Wells.

For more information or to register, visit www.runsignup.com/Race/ME/Wells/VD5k. 

Applications available for holiday help

Secret Santa of Kennebunk, Kennebunkport and Arundel has been helping families in need by providing Christmas and holiday gifts to children in the three towns for over 35 years. Applications for parents and/or legal guardians in need of help this year may be picked up at all three town general assistance offices or can be found online at the town websites:

*Kennebunkport: www.kennebunkportme.gov/public-health-department/pages/general-assistance.

*Kennebunk: www.kennebunkmaine.us/269/Social-Services.

*Arundel: https://arundelmaine.org/.

*Or search by town + “General Assistance.”

In order to qualify, applications must be returned to the general assistance office by Friday, Nov, 10.

All requests are strictly confidential. For more information, call the town’s general assistance office:

*Kennebunk, 985-2102, option 3.

*Kennebunkport, 967-4401.

*Arundel, 985-4201.

Resident inducted into honor society

Madeline Ryan, of Arundel, was recently initiated into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, an all-discipline collegiate honor society. Ryan was initiated at Jacksonville University.

Open Barn session offered at BlixxHorses

BlixxHorses will host its last Open Barn of the year from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 8 and Monday, Oct. 9. BlixxHorses is located at 5 Portage Way in West Kennebunk. Patrons will get a chance to visit with Lexxie and Fritz.

According to a news release, “the window of opportunity where both horses and humans have comfort in the same weather conditions is short. Horses do best in temperatures that are cold for us. This in part is due to body temperatures 2 degrees higher. When it’s nice, sunny and warm without a cloud in the sky, horses are often hot and uncomfortable, harassed by biting insects for which they are huge targets. Autumn brings relief allowing horses to enjoy the outdoors, while still comfortable for people.”

BlixxHorses has been dedicated to improving the lives of horses through education since 2007. BlixxHorses provides education about everything to do with horses beyond riding – from basic anatomy and physiology, nutritional requirements, needs and care of domestic horses, behavior and safety. This provides a glimpse at horse ownership providing insight into the type of commitment needed.

BlixxHorses’s mission, according to the press release, was inspired by Blue, aka, Take A Mile, RIP. The grey Thoroughbred racehorse was being used in a nearly emaciated condition at a local show barn after many years of service to many people, including his original owner who raced him until the age of 10; a long time to be on the track.

Today his companion, Lexxie, and her companion of 15 years, Fritz, continue the organization’s work. This year’s Autumn Horse is dedicated to a thoroughbred named Naikon.

The Open Barn cost is $20 per person, cash/checks. For more information, visit www.blixxhorses.org, www.horsetherapy.me, email blixx@myfairpoint.net or call 207-985-1994 (no texts).

Sinatra night will benefit scholarship fund

The Maine Classic Car Museum in Arundel will present a Sensational Night of Sinatra with Sinatra tribute artist Patrick Tobin 6 to 9 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 14. This evening will benefit the Maine Classic Car Museum Student Scholarship Fund.

The event will support the museum’s student internship program with Tobin as he sings Sinatra’s hits amongst the classic cars. Cocktails and hors d’oeuvres will be available. Patrons are asked to dress in cocktail attire. Tickets are $75 per person and available on Eventbrite or at the museum. Museum Members can call the museum to receive a special discounted price of $50 per person.

York County Republicans set meeting

The York County Republican Committee will meet Wednesday, Oct. 11 at Alfred Town Hall, 16 Saco Road. The doors open at 6:30 p.m. and a business meeting is scheduled for 7 to 8:30 p.m.

The meeting will focus on how to get out the vote for the Nov. 7 referendum election and provide information on the eight Questions on the ballot, both citizen initiative referenda and resolutions proposing amendments to the Maine Constitution.

For more information, email communications@yorkgop.org or call 207-468-2395.

Hendrix featured at Mid-Week Music

Mid-Week Music continues Wednesday, Oct. 25, with Words & Music by James Marshall Hendrix. The monthly concert series is held at the Kennebunkport Historical Society’s Town House School at 135 North St. The show begins at 7 p.m.

“Obviously he was a force of nature on guitar, but I always felt that his songwriting prowess never got the appreciation it deserved,” said Ed Williamson of Jimi Hendrix. “His songs are so pure and timeless.”

To that end, Mark Gunter (keyboards, vocal), John Kumnick (bass), Dylan Kumnick (drums), and Dana Pearson (guitar, vocal) will perform an evening of solidly written Hendrix tunes, including “Crosstown Traffic,” “Castles Made of Sand,” and “House Burning Down.”

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit kporths.com/events, email info@kporths.com, or call 967-2751.

Schroeder joins Benefits & Beyond as workforce development instructor

Benefits & Beyond LLC, employee benefits agency offering workforce development and training solutions, announced the addition of Eric Schroeder to its workforce development team.

According to a Sept. 21 news release, “Schroeder brings a wealth of real-world experience as a 20-year entrepreneur. He has maintained a focus on understanding the people he serves, where they are, their constraints, and their priorities to make sure they make the best decisions possible sometimes in very complicated and intense situations … Eric guides individuals on their professional journeys, helping them acquire essential skills that empower them to reach their full potential.”

In his new role with Benefits & Beyond, Schroeder will launch by leading two classes, Challenging Negative Attitudes on Oct. 19 and Balancing Priorities on Nov. 15. The classes will help participants enhance their skill set, explore new career paths, or re-enter the job market with confidence.

“We are thrilled to welcome Eric Schroeder to the Benefits & Beyond family,” said Koriahn D Quint, principal and founder of Benefits & Beyond, in an email. “His dedication to innovation and workforce development aligns perfectly with our mission to cost effectively strengthen organizations to attract and retain quality talent, and maintain a thriving engaged team.”

According to the press release, Benefits & Beyond’s partnership with Merrymeeting Adult Education reinforces its commitment to serving the business community and fostering economic growth by providing relevant and progressive workforce development opportunities.

Historical society hosts bean supper

The Arundel Historical Society will host a baked bean and pasta supper on Oct. 14. It will be held at the Mildred L. Day School gymnasium from 4:30 to 6 p.m. Mildred L. Day School is located on the Limerick Road in Arundel.

The menu will include two types of baked beans, mac and cheese, American chop suey, hot dogs, coleslaw, cornbread/rolls, drinks and coffee and homemade desserts. Takeout is available. Suggested donations are: adults, $10; children 6-10 years,-$5 and children younger than 5 eat free.

The supper will feature historical displays, membership info, raffle calendars and merchandise. Proceeds benefit the Arundel Historical Society and all are welcome for the family-friendly evening.

Legion Post announces meeting schedule

The monthly meeting of American Legion Post 159 in Kennebunkport is held on the first Thursday of the month at 7 p.m. All veterans and Sons of the American Legion are welcome to attend.
Legion Post 159 is located at 102 Main St. (across from the police station) in Kennebunkport. Future meeting dates:

2023 – Nov. 2 and Dec. 7.

2024 – Jan. 4, Feb. 1, March 7, April 4, May 2, June 6, July 11, Aug. 1, Sept. 5, Oct. 3, Nov. 7 and Dec. 5.

For more information, call 967-2400.

League of Maine Craft Show visits Wells

The annual League of Maine Craft Show is scheduled for  Oct. 7-8 in Wells. Known for its three shows, Summer Solstice/League Of Maine July, September, and November shows, the organization added a fourth show. The two-day event will be held Saturday, Oct. 7 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday, Oct. 8 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Wells Junior High School on Route 1 (1470 Post Road) in Wells.

The juried craft show features crafters and artists who display their handmade wares featuring traditional, contemporary and country crafts. Patrons will see stained glass, jewelry of all types, pottery, soaps, clothing, wood crafts, fiber arts, graphics, photography, handcrafted specialty foods and more. Artisans from all over New England are featured at the pre-holiday show. A sampling of the crafters and artists:

· Karol Peralta, Salem, Massachusetts: Sterling silver and rose gold filled jewelry.

· Al Pelletier, Kennebunk: Pottery.

· David Sullivan, Ogunquit: Photographs of the surrounding areas.

· Dianna Starbranch, Augusta: Porcelain ornaments for every hobby, occupation, animal and sports.

· Maggie and Pete Adams, Camden: Wire tree art. Artists specializing in wire and painted trees.

· Joyce Huff, Cape Porpoise: Decorative tole painting. Wall hangings and holiday ornaments.

The craft show is held rain or shine. Parking and Admission are free. For more information, contact show director Rita Poli at 207-967-2251, email summersolsticecraftshows@gmail.com or visit www.summersolsticecraftshows.com.

First Congregational schedules final supper of the season

First Congregational Church is hosting its monthly baked bean and American chop suey supper on Saturday, Oct. 28, from 4:30 to 6 p.m. at the church, 141 North St., Kennebunkport. The last First Church bean supper of 2023 will be held on Saturday, Oct. 28.

The supper features two types of home baked beans, American Chop Suey, hot dogs, rolls, and coleslaw, topped off with a slice of homemade pie. Exact change is required: adults and children age 12 and older, $10 per person; children younger than 12, $5 per child.

For more information, call Carol at 207-710-7060.

Coastal Kitchen Tour set for Oct. 6-8

The Center announced that its Coastal Kitchen Tour is back for its 18th year. The event has been expanded into a full weekend of activities:

*Friday, Oct. 6 there will be a kick-off party at 173 Mercantile, 4 to 6 p.m. where participants can sample wine and cheese and have the opportunity to speak with kitchen experts.

*Saturday, Oct. 7, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. is the main event, with seven kitchens in the Kennebunks for participants to explore. This is a self-guided tour and participants are welcome to visit the homes in any order. Immediately following the Coastal Kitchen Tour, patrons can visit The Center for an Octoberfest Beer and Food Tasting from 3 to 5 p.m.

*Finishing out the weekend is a Sip and Shop event at J. McLaughlin in Wells, on Sunday, Oct. 8, from noon to 4 p.m. Update the wardrobe for fall and support The Center at the same time. Fifteen percent of all sales at the event will benefit The Center.

The Center is a meeting place for adults 50 and older to explore their interests through programs, social connection and to make a difference through volunteer opportunities that strengthen the community.

For more information and tickets, visit www.seniorcenterkennebunk.org, on social media @CenterKennebunk, call 207-967-8514, or visit 175 Port Road in Kennebunk.

Kennebunk Free Library announces October exhibit

Speers Gallery at Kennebunk Free Library will present a retrospective, Celebrating the Creative Process, by Kennebunk resident Linda K. Thompson that will run Oct. 3-30. The public is invited to an opening reception 5:30 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 4.

The exhibit’s overarching theme is exploration of various mediums and techniques, ranging from watercolor, acrylics and collage in the Speers Gallery, and weaving, needlework, and Japanese woodblock printing in a library foyer display case.

According to a Sept. 14 news release, “Thompson believes that making art is not only about technique, but also finding a balance between that, and a passion or relationship with the subject of your creation. In Celebrating the Creative Process, the artist portrays a wide range of subjects, which reflect her curiosity in the world around her. Using a range of mediums, her art is grouped thematically, including flowers, landscapes, the ocean, the Southwest, trees, bears and collage. In the foyer the artist hopes that some of her pieces will encourage others to try different materials or crafts. A fun ‘quiz’ will be provided by the artist for adults and children.”

Thompson’s journey into the arts includes a master’s degree in creative arts and learning from Lesley University, as well as courses and workshops in Massachusetts at the Danforth and DeCordova museums, Concord Art Association and Rowe Conference Center. In Maine, she continued her journey at the Heartwood College of Art, River Tree Arts, local adult ed classes and University of Maine Senior College, where she also taught a beginning watercolor class. Particularly formative were week-long art retreats in New Mexico: Painting from the Source, and Wild Heart Art, as well as Watercolor Mandalas at the former Marie Joseph Spiritual Center in Biddeford Pool. “What helps ignite my creativity is curiosity, intuition, exploration, experimentation, challenge … and playfulness,” Thompson said in an email.

The public is invited to view the exhibit in the library’s Speers Gallery from Oct. 3-30 at 112 Main St., Kennebunk, during regular library hours when the gallery is not in use for library programs. For current hours and gallery access, visit www.kennebunklibrary.org.

HarvestFest scheduled for Oct. 14

Kennebunk’s annual HarvestFest celebration is set for Saturday, Oct. 14. Events are planned at the Waterhouse Center, Brick Store Museum, Kennebunk Free Library, Hope Woods, the Farmer’s Market and Mousam River Sanctuary.

This years festival will feature many popular family-oriented activities including live music, games, face painting, crafters, food, inflatables and a scavenger hunt. The parade will step off at 11:30 a.m. and will host many favorites such as the Dunlap Highland Band, Coastal Cruisers, costumed marchers and more.

Those interested in participating in the parade, visit the town of Kennebunk website for the application. For more information, contact Linda Johnson at ljohnson@kennebunkmaine.us or call 207-604-1341.

South Congregational announces art project

South Congregational Church in Kennebunkport is inviting artists of all ages and experience levels to participate in a community art installation, called Remade in Hope.

The installation will be in front of South Church next March and April 2024, and will feature a six-sided structure that visitors may walk around and enter. On the outside, paintings will feature works that have themes of despair, grief, and struggle. On the inside the canvases will feature images of hope, renewal and joy. The public will be able to observe the transformation from the darker shades of sadness to the warmer shades of joy.

Artists will receive two free blank canvases, one for each of these two themes. Artists are encouraged to visit the website to download a Statement of Interest form and read other information: www.southchurchucc.org/about-3. Thirty-four artists of varying ages and abilities and mediums will be selected, and will have until February to finish the two canvases. An event on the themes of gloom and renewal will help provide artists a vocabulary from which to draw; that event will be held on Oct. 22, 4 to 6 p.m. at the Community House, 8 Temple St., Kennebunkport.

South Church intends to create an experience of renewal that engages the community and allows everyone to find their own personal experience of transformation.

The program is made possible through a Vital Worship Grant from Calvin Institute of Christian Worship, Grand Rapids, Michigan, with funds provided by Lilly Endowment Inc. The program will include several events and educational experiences for the general public.

For more information, email hope@southchurchucc.org.

 

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