Items submitted to Check it Out must be events that benefit nonprofit organizations and be open to the public. Submissions should be received at least seven days in advance of the event.



Farmington area



Farmington, Friday, Saturday and Sunday, April 8, 9 and 10: Theatre UMF presents “Spring Festival One Acts,” 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 2 p.m. Sunday, Alumni Theatre, UMF. Adults, $6; non-UMF students, $5; seniors and children, $3.50. FMI and reservations: 778-7465.

Farmington, Thursday, April 7: Performance by comedian and UMF graduate Bob Marley, 7 p.m., Dearborn Gym, UMF. $12; $5 for UMF students. Tickets available at Mickey’s Hallmark. Sponsored by the Student Health Club. Benefit for the club’s national health conference trip. FMI: 778-7097 or 837-5187.

Farmington, Thursday, April 7: Reading by writer Barrie Jean Borich, 7:30 p.m., Preble Ricker Hall, UMF. Free. Open to public. FMI: contact Gretchen Legler, 778-7182 or e-mail Gretchen.legler@maine.edu.

Farmington, Thursday and Saturday, April 7 and 9: Theatre UMF presents the play “Jake’s Women,” 7:30 p.m. Thursday and at 2 p.m. Saturday, Alumni Theatre, UMF. Adults, $6; non-UMF students, $5; seniors and children, $3.50. FMI and reservations: 778-7465.

Turner, Thursday, April 7: Arts Gala, 6:30 p.m., Leavitt Area High School. Art exhibits, music, dance performances, poetry slam, pottery-throwing contest, sidewalk artists and food.

Farmington, Friday, April 8: G.I. Coffee House features music from the Syncopations, 7 to 10 p.m., Old South Congregational Church. Donations of items to send to troops welcome. Coffee and baked goods provided.

Turner, Friday, April 8: American Red Cross blood drive, 7:45 a.m. to 1:45 p.m., Leavitt Area High School, Lower St. FMI: 1-800-482-0743.

Farmington, Saturday, April 9: Contradance with Kennebec Highlands String Band and calling by Harry Brauser, 8 to 11 p.m., Grange Hall, Bridge Street. $5; family max, $10. Free basic workshop at 7:30 p.m. FMI: 397-2241 or e-mail dance@starleft.org.

Farmington, Saturday, April 9: Public supper, 4:30 to 6 p.m., Trinity United Methodist Church. Includes baked beans, salads, casseroles, biscuit and pies.

Farmington, Saturday, April 9: UMF Community Orchestra’s Spring concert, 7:30 p.m., Nordica Auditorium, UMF. Adults, $6; seniors, $5; children under 12, $2. Tickets available at Mickey’s Hallmark or at door.

Farmington, Saturday, April 9: Art and Theater Workshop features shadow puppets and folk tales, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., First Congregational Church, Main Street. $28 per person; $45 adult and child. For adults and children grades 4 and up. Sponsored by Foothills Arts Center. FMI and to sign up: 778-0448 or e-mail info@foothillsarts.org.

Farmington, Saturday, April 9: Mount Blue Theater Company presents the MBHS Curtain Raisers Improv Comedy Troupe in “Void Where Prohibited,” 7 p.m.; doors open 6:30 p.m., Mount Blue High School. Adults, $3; students, $2. FMI: contact Dan Ryder, 778-3561.

Industry, Saturday, April 9: Eastward Players present the dinner theater “The Light is Too Dark” with music by Sparrow’s Song Youth Choir, 6:30 p.m.; doors open 6 p.m., Town Hall. Adults, $10; seniors, $7; children under 12, $5; families, $16. Includes spaghetti supper. Sponsored by West Mills Community Church and Church of Christ.

Jay, Saturday, April 9: Food sale, 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., North Jay Methodist Parish House. Light luncheon available.

Jay, Saturday, April 9: Benefit potluck supper and country jam session, 5 p.m., Amvets Hall. $7 per person. 50/50. Proceeds for June Dyer who will undergo eye surgery. FMI and advance tickets: 645-5193 or 645-3388.

Turner, Saturday, April 9: Baked bean supper and bluegrass gospel concert, supper from 5 to 6:30 p.m., concert at 7 p.m., Turner Village Church. Donations accepted for supper and concert. Music by the Leclaire family. FMI: 225-2258.

Wilton, Saturday, April 9: Big Brothers, Big Sisters annual fundraiser, Bowl For Kids’ Sake, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Meadow Lanes Bowling Center. Teams of four bowl 2 games. Free bowling and shoe rental for those who raise $25 for Big Brothers, Big Sisters of Franklin County. To donate, sign up a team or FMI: call 562-8193 or e-mail nancarp@megalink.net.

New Sharon, Sunday, April 10: Smothered beef dinner, 12:30 to 2 p.m., New Sharon Methodist Church annex. $6.50. Includes beef, mashed potatoes, vegetables, rolls and pie. Sponsored by the Square and Compass club. Benefit for their building fund.

Farmington, Monday, April 11: Documentary film “The Future of Food,” 7 p.m., Ricker Addition, UMF. Free. Film discusses the safety of eating genetically engineered food. Presented by Western Mountains Peace Action Workshop. FMI: contact Eileen Kreutz, 779-1943.

Canton, Saturday, April 16: Chicken pie supper, 5 to 6:30 p.m., Ponemah Rebekah Hall. Adults, $6.50; children under 12, $4.50. Includes mashed potatoes, gravy, rolls, peas, carrots, coleslaw, cranberry sauce, beverage and pie. Takeout available.

Readfield, Monday, April 18: American Red Cross blood drive, noon to 5 p.m., Kents Hill School, Route 17. FMI: 1-800-482-0743.

Turner, Saturday, April 23: Spring time dance, 8 p.m. to midnight, Boofy Quimby Memorial Center. $10 per person. Public welcome. Music by Rockin’ Road Runners Band. 50/50. FMI, tickets or table reservations: contact Betty, 597-2299. Sponsored by Buckfield Buckeneers Football Association.

Farmington, Sunday, April 24: Benefit spaghetti supper for Cindy Bernier who is battling cancer, 4 to 7 p.m., Elks Lodge, West Farmington. Adults, $10; seniors and children under 12, $5. Silent auction, 50/50, and cake and pie auction. Tickets at the door or by calling Lisa, 778-3443.

Farmington, Wednesday and Thursday, April 27 and 28: American Red Cross blood drive, noon to 5 p.m., North Dining Hall, University of Maine Farmington. FMI: 1-800-482-0743.

Canton, Saturday, May 14: Auto show and business fair, registration 9 a.m.; judging 10 a.m. to noon; awards 2 p.m., Route 140. Rocket launch, Pinewood derby, lawn tractor race, door prizes, concessions, music. FMI: 592-8077.

Turner, Sunday, May 29: Free distribution of vegetable seeds, noon to 1 p.m., Turner Village Church. The second step in the three-step shared harvest dinner happening Sunday Oct. 9. FMI: 225-2248.

Items submitted to Check it Out must be events that benefit nonprofit organizations and be open to the public. Submissions should be received at least seven days in advance of the event.



Oxford Hills area



South Paris, Thursday, April 7: American Red Cross blood drive, 1 to 7 p.m., Western Maine Veteran’s Home, 477 High St. FMI: 1-800-482-0743.

West Paris, Thursday, April 7: Agriculture Night program, 7:30 p.m., Grange Hall, Church Street. Guest lecturer Michael Graham, curator of Sabbathday Lake Shaker Museum, speaks on the history of the herb and seed industry.

Bethel, Friday, April 8: Lecture “Herbs in the Body” presented by Wendy Green, 7 p.m., Crescent Park School. Free. Donations accepted.

Buckfield, Friday, April 8: Wood sale sponsored by the Buckfield Legion Auxiliary to benefit sending girls to Girl State, 10 a.m., Northeast Bank, Buckfield Village.

Buckfield, Friday and Saturday, April 8 and 9: Oddfellow Theater presents “The Early Evening Show,” 7:30 p.m., at the theater, Route 117. Adults, $10; seniors, $8; children under 12, $6. Tickets available at Northeast Bank, Buckfield or by calling 336-3306.

Paris, Friday, April 8: McLaughlin Foundation Garden and Horticultural Center’s trip to Bangor flower show, leaving from South Paris at 6 a.m. Members, $35; nonmembers, $40. Includes transportation, snacks and tickets. Limited seating. To register: 743-8820.

Bar Mills, Saturday, April 9: The Old Grey Goose International presents “On the Road to Cuba,” a live concert of American folk songs, 7:30 p.m., Saco River Grange Hall, 29 Salmon Falls Road. Adults, $12; students and seniors, $10. FMI or reservations: 929-6472.

Bethel, Saturday, April 9: Black Fly Bash benefit concert and dance, 7 to 11 p.m., Sunday River Brewing Co., corner of Sunday River Road and Route 2. $5 donation at the door. Proceeds for the Mahoosuc Arts Council. Families welcome. FMI: 824-3575.

Locke Mills, Saturday, April 9: Old time dance, 8 to 11 p.m., Town Hall. Music by Richard Felt Orchestra. Benefit of Greenwood Historical Society.

Lovell, Saturday, April 9: Dance featuring music by Bobby Lee and The Kountry Knights, 8 p.m. to midnight, Lovell Veterans of Foreign Wars Hall. $10 per person. Refreshments available. Sponsored by VFW Auxiliary. To reserve a table: contact Rachel, 925-3130.

Minot, Saturday, April 9: Basket bingo, noon; doors open 10:30 a.m., Minot Consolidated School, Shawhill Road, off Woodman Hill Road, Route 119. $10, advance; $13 at the door. FMI and tickets: 346-6471 or 346-9040.

Norway, Saturday, April 9: Oxford County Fair Association’s Horseman’s Ball, 8 p.m. to midnight, Norway Armory. $50 per couple. Music by the Blue Willow Band. Semi-formal. Tickets may be purchased at L.F. Pike & Son, or from any fair association member. Raffle. Proceeds benefit the Oxford county Fair and the new harness racing facility. FMI or for raffle tickets: 743-6561, Kathleen at 583-4949, Corille at 925-3462 or Suzanne at 743-9594.

Paris, Saturday, April 9: Chinese auction, 6 p.m.; doors open 4 p.m., Oxford Hills Comprehensive High School. Tickets: 10 for $2.50 and $1 table. Gift certificates, car reconditionings, swimming pool, gift baskets, 50/50. Refreshments on sale. Sponsored by Oxford Hills Project Graduation.

South Paris, Saturday, April 9: First Universalist Church’s spring rummage sale, 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.; bag sale from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m., 36 Pine St. Clean second hand linens, clothing, housewares, books and toys, white elephant table.

South Paris, Saturday, April 9: Swingin’ Bears Square Dance Club dance with caller Lee Kennedy and cuer Carol Steward, 7 to 10 p.m., Oxford Hills High School, Pine Street. Refreshments served at intermission. FMI: contact Sue Corning, 743-7176 or Eleanor Herrick, 782-4050.

West Buxton, Saturday, April 9: Dance featuring traditional country music with Gary Leet and Elizabeth Country Drifters, 8 p.m. to midnight, The Roost, 62 Chicopee Road. Singles, $8; couples, $15; members of Decma $1 off door price. Food, cash bar, 50/50, door prize. FMI: 793-8884, 539-2366.

Norway, Sunday, April 10: Country Music show and dance, 1 to 5:30 p.m., Charlie’s Entertainment Center, Main Street. Adults, $5; children under 12, $2.50.

Locke Mills, Tuesday, April 12: Supper and dance, supper at 5:30 p.m; dance follows until 9:30 p.m., Legion Hall, Gore Road. Admission: $7 adults, $3.50 children under 12. Music by the Richard Felt Band.

Bryant Pond, Thursday, April 14: Guest speaker Joyce Lamb of West Paris talks of her trips to England, 10 a.m., Whitman Library. Free. Light refreshments offered.

Norway, Friday, April 15: Mountain Poets Society presents “Too Cold for the Porch II” poetry readings in celebration of National Poetry Month, 7 p.m.; poet sign up at 6:30 p.m., Fare Share Commons, 447 Main St. $1 donation.

Paris, Friday, April 15: Concert and dance featuring live steel band music by Tripanic, 7 p.m.; doors open 6:30 p.m., Oxford Hills Comprehensive High School. Advance tickets, $5. Caribbean attire encouraged. Light refreshments will be available. Proceeds benefit Oxford County Special Olympics. FMI or tickets: 743-8616.

South Paris, Friday, April 15: Caribbean steel band concert and dance with Auburn musician group Tinpanic, 7 p.m.; doors open 6:30 p.m., Oxford Hill Comprehensive High School. $5. For tickets: 743-8616. Light refreshments available. Benefit for Oxford County Special Olympics.

Canton, Saturday, April 16: Chicken pie supper, 5 to 6:30 p.m., Ponemah Rebekah Hall. Adults, $6.50; children under 12, $4.50. Includes mashed potatoes, gravy, rolls, peas, carrots, coleslaw, cranberry sauce, beverage and pie. Takeout available.

Paris, Saturday, April 16: Chinese auction, bidding from 5 to 6:30; winner drawing at 6:30 p.m., Oxford Hills Comprehensive High School. Tickets: 10 for $2.50. Over 200 items. Food and refreshments available. Benefit for Responsible Pet Care of Oxford Hills, Inc.

West Paris, Saturday, April 16: Rummage sale, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Main Street. Sponsored by First Universalist Church.

Locke Mills, Saturday, April 23: Old time dance, 8 to 11 p.m., Town Hall. Music by Richard Felt Orchestra. Benefit of Greenwood Historical Society.

Locke Mills, Saturday, May 7: SAD 44 Telstar High School football fund-raising dance, 8 p.m. to midnight, American Legion Hall. $10 per person; $16 per couple. Live music by The Suspects. 50/50, raffles. Proceeds benefit the 2005 start-up of Telstar High School football. FMI: contact Tim, 824-0360.

Canton, Saturday, May 14: Auto show and business fair, registration 9 a.m.; judging 10 a.m. to noon; awards 2 p.m., Route 140. Rocket launch, Pinewood derby, lawn tractor race, door prizes, concessions, music. FMI: 592-8077.

Oxford, Sunday, May 22: Basket bingo, 12:30 p.m.; doors open 11 a.m., Oxford Legion Hall, Route 121. $10 for 16 games. For ages over 16. Proceeds for Otisfield Community School playground fund. FMI: 890-6477 or 890-0999.

Items submitted to Check it Out must be events that benefit nonprofit organizations and be open to the public. Submissions should be received at least seven days in advance of the event.

River Valley area



Bethel, Friday, April 8: Lecture “Herbs in the Body” presented by Wendy Green, 7 p.m., Crescent Park School. Free. Donations accepted.

Rumford, Friday, April 8: Auction, 6:30 p.m.; doors open 5 p.m., Black Mountain of Maine’s new lodge. Sponsored by P.A.T.H.S. of St. Athanasius – St. John School. FMI: 364-2528.

Bethel, Saturday, April 9: Black Fly Bash benefit concert and dance, 7 to 11 p.m., Sunday River Brewing Co., corner of Sunday River Road and Route 2. $5 donation at the door. Proceeds for the Mahoosuc Arts Council. Families welcome. FMI: 824-3575.

Canton, Saturday, April 9: Canton Cruisers Relay For Life team’s turkey supper and silent auction, supper from 5 to 6:30 p.m.; auction follows at 7 p.m., Municipal Building. Supper: Adults, $5; children and seniors, $3. Auction tickets: $2.50 for ten; $5 for twenty-five. Proceeds benefit Relay For Life in the River Valley area.

Dixfield, Saturday, April 9: Appreciation Night for Coach Gavin Kane, dinner at 6 p.m.; presentation follows, Dirigo High School. Free. Attendance is limited. Tickets available at Holmes Market. FMI: Barbara 562-8989.

Rumford, Saturday, April 9: Public supper, 4 p.m., St. Athanasius and St. John’s Parish Hall. $5. Includes soups, chowders, stews, rolls, biscuits, desserts and beverages. Hosted by The Daughters of Isabella, St. Timothy Circle 504 and the Knights of Columbus. Tickets can be purchased in advanced by calling 364-3314 or 364-2801.

Rumford, Saturday, April 9: Dance, 7 to 11 p.m., Le Paresseux Snowshoe Club, Waldo Street. Music by E/I Band. Members and guest welcome.

Rumford Center, Sunday, April 10: Public supper, noon to 1:30 p.m., Rumford Grange 115. Adults, $6; children under 12, $3.50. Includes fricassee chicken and fixings and homemade pies.

Dixfield, Monday, April 11: Preschool story time for children ages 2 to 5, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., Ludden Memorial Library. FMI: 562-8838.

Mexico, Tuesday, April 12: Preschool story and craft hour for children ages 2 to 5, 10 a.m., Public Library. Craft will be an Eensy-Weensy spider. FMI: 364-3281.

Mexico, Wednesday, April 13: Greater Rumford Area Ministers’ Pantry Service will serve a free lunch, noon, Town Office.

Rumford, Wednesday, April 13: Preschool story time for children ages 2 to 5, 10 a.m., Public Library. FMI: 364-3661.

Rumford, Wednesday, April 13: American Red Cross Blood drive, noon to 5 p.m., Eagles Club, 13 Oxford Ave.

Rumford, Thursday, April 14: SeniorsPlus Lunch and Learn presentation features “What is a Skilled Nursing Facility? Can I Get Short-term Rehabilitation There? and Does Medicare pay for this Program” by Suzanne Plourde from Kindred Healthcare, 11 a.m.; lunch follows at 11:30 a.m, SeniorsPlus Dining Center at the dining center. $3.50, those over 60, their spouses, those with disabilities and volunteers; $5, under 60. Includes homemade baked beans, hot dog on roll, coleslaw, apple pie and choice of coffee, tea or milk.

Canton, Saturday, April 16: Chicken pie supper, 5 to 6:30 p.m., Ponemah Rebekah Hall. Adults, $6.50; children under 12, $4.50. Includes mashed potatoes, gravy, rolls, peas, carrots, coleslaw, cranberry sauce, beverage and pie. Takeout available.

Rumford, Saturday, April 16: Big Brothers Big Sisters Bowl For Kids’ Sake fund-raiser at Oxford Lanes. FMI: Pam Murphy 743-7035 or email bbbs@megalink.net.

Rumford, Saturday, April 16: Mac McHale and The Old-time Radio Gang will perform with special guests Mom’s Home Cooking and The Smith Brothers, 7 p.m., Mountain Valley High School, Muskie Auditorium. $8. Tickets available at Roberts Chiropractic Wellness Care, Hannafords or at the door. Presented by and proceeds for the Moontide Water Festival.

Hanover, Sunday, April 17: Rumford Point Community Athletic Association discussion on field clean up day and bottle drive, 6 p.m., Town Office.

Mexico, Sunday, April 17: Magic show featuring Dennis Labbe and Scot Grassette, noon to 5 p.m., Mexico Rec Center. Adults, $8 advance/$10 at the door; students, $4; children under 3, free. Advance tickets available at Maddy’s Pizza, Mexico Rec Center or Bull Rock Spring Water. Other events taking place: roller skating, noon to 2 p.m.; bake and craft sale, noon to 5. Proceeds for the Mexico Recreation Department and The Moontide Water Festival. FMI: contact Greg, 364-4912 or Bull Rock Spring Water, 364-0808.

Mexico, Tuesday, April 26: Auditions for the RAAPA Chorus Dinner Theater, 7 to 8:15 p.m., Mountain Valley Middle School. Bring pencil and audio cassette. For music folder prior to audition, contact Kelli Olson, 369-0028. Scripts available at Rumford Library. Dinner Theater to be held Friday, June 24, Park Place.

Locke Mills, Saturday, May 7: SAD 44 Telstar High School football fund-raising dance, 8 p.m. to midnight, American Legion Hall. $10 per person; $16 per couple. Live music by The Suspects. 50/50, raffles. Proceeds benefit the 2005 start-up of Telstar High School football. FMI: contact Tim, 824-0360.

Canton, Saturday, May 14: Auto show and business fair, registration 9 a.m.; judging 10 a.m. to noon; awards 2 p.m., Route 140. Rocket launch, Pinewood derby, lawn tractor race, door prizes, concessions, music. FMI: 592-8077.

Items submitted to Check it Out must be events that benefit nonprofit organizations and be open to the public. Submissions should be received at least seven days in advance of the event.



Lewiston area



Auburn, through Monday, April 11: Registrations being taken for four-person Scrabble teams to take part in the annual Literacy Volunteers’ Letters for Literacy being held Sunday, April 17, 1 to 4 p.m. at Hilton Garden Inn, 14 Great Falls Plaza. Collect $40 per team in pledges. Prizes for top fundraisers. Proceeds provide literacy services in Androscoggin County. FMI or to preregister: 753-1772.

Auburn, Thursday, April 7: L/A Arts foreign film “To Be and To Have,” 7 p.m., Central Maine Community College, 1250 Turner St. Film club members, $5; non-members, $7. French with English subtitles. FMI: 1-800-639-2919, 782-7228 or www.laarts.org.

Auburn, Thursday, April 7: Baby’s night out, 6 to 6:20 p.m., Public Library, Auburn Mall. For babies to 24 months and their parents. Rhymes, songs, clapping games.

Greene, Thursday and Friday, April 7 and 8: Sawyer Memorial presents the film “Sailing Down the Rio on The Queen Mary” narrated by filmmaker Doug Jones, 7 p.m. Thursday; 2 and 7 p.m. Friday, 371 Sawyer Road. Free. Doors open one hour before shows. FMI: 946-5311.

Turner, Thursday, April 7: Arts Gala, 6:30 p.m., Leavitt Area High School. Art exhibits, music, dance performances, poetry slam, pottery-throwing contest, sidewalk artists and food.

Buckfield, Friday, April 8: Wood sale sponsored by the Buckfield Legion Auxiliary to benefit sending girls to Girl State, 10 a.m., Northeast Bank, Buckfield Village.

Buckfield, Friday and Saturday, April 8 and 9: Oddfellow Theater presents “The Early Evening Show,” 7:30 p.m., at the theater, Route 117. Adults, $10; seniors, $8; children under 12, $6. Tickets available at Northeast Bank, Buckfield or by calling 336-3306.

Gardiner, Friday, April 8: Alive! From Johnson Hall presents Celtic and Acadian tunes with the Pineland Fiddlers, 7:30 p.m., Johnson Hall Performing Arts Center, 280 Water St. $8. FMI or tickets: 582-7144 or e-mail johnsonhall@verizon.net.

Gray, Friday and Saturday, April 8 and 9: The Good Shepherd Players perform “A Treacherous Night on the Midnight Train,” 6:30 p.m., Good Shepherd United Methodist Church. $29.50 per person; table for eight, $25 per person. Includes dinner of prime rib, stuffed chicken breast or baked haddock. Proceeds support the church ministries. FMI and tickets: 929-4020.

Lewiston, Friday, April 8: Advocates for Children “Cookies and Crafts,” 10 to 11 a.m., B Street Community Building, 57 Birch St., Suite 204. FMI: 783-3990.

Lewiston, Friday, April 8: L-A Senior College noon luncheon features the presentation “Shaker Life Today” by Sabbathday Lake Shaker Village Museum and Library director Leonard Brooks, 11:30 a.m., University of Maine Lewiston Auburn function room. $5, advance; $7, at the door. Includes lunch. FMI and reservations: 753-6510 or visit www.usm.maine.edu/lac.

Lewiston, Friday, April 8 through Sunday, May 29: Bates College Museum of Art’s senior exhibition “New Acquisitions: Local and Global Contemporary Photography,” Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., 75 Russell St. Free. For updated information and times: 786-6158 or visit www.bates.edu/museum.xml.

Lisbon, Friday, April 8: Auxiliary potluck supper, 5:30 to 7 p.m., VFW Post 9459, Route 196. Adults, $6; children under 10, $3. FMI: 353-2152.

Lisbon, Friday, April 8: Auxiliary baked bean supper, 5 to 6 p.m., Post 158, Webster Street. Adults, $5; children under 12, $2.50; under 6, free. Includes hot dogs, raisin brown bread, cole slaw and homemade pies. FMI: 784-2493.

New Gloucester, Friday and Saturday, April 8 and 9: Tsunami relief art auction, viewing on Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday 8 a.m. to noon; auction on Saturday at 2 p.m., Pineland Farms Visitors Center. Conducted by Jim Cyr of Cyr Antiques. FMI: 688-4539.

Portland, Friday, April 8: Dance, 7 to 11 p.m., Portland Elks, Congress Street. Music by Vintage.

Turner, Friday, April 8: American Red Cross blood drive, 7:45 a.m. to 1:45 p.m., Leavitt Area High School, Lower St. FMI: 1-800-482-0743.

Winthrop, Friday, April 8: Fish chowder luncheon, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Winthrop Congregational Church. Adults, $6. Takeouts available. Wheelchair accessible.

Auburn, Saturday, April 9: Dorothy Gatchell brings Mother Goose to the library, 10 a.m., Public Library, Auburn Mall. Stories, rhymes and songs.

Auburn, Saturday, April 9: Indoor yard sale, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., Lake Auburn Towne House, 74 Lake Auburn Ave. Household Items, clothing, jewelry, books, baked goods, refreshments and coffee, 50/50, raffles.

Auburn, Saturday, April 9: Ham dinner, 5 to 6 p.m., St. Louis Parish Hall, Third Street, New Auburn. Adults, $6; children under 12, $3. Includes potato, vegetable, salad, dessert and beverage.

Durham, Saturday, April 9: Baked bean supper, 5 to 6:30 p.m., First Congregational Church, Route 136. Adults, $5; children under 12, $2.50; under 4, free. Includes baked beans, American chop suey, hot dogs, coleslaw, brown bread, rolls and homemade pies. Benefit for Lisbon Area Christian Outreach’s matching grant project with Sandy River Trust Foundation.

Lewiston, Saturday, April 9: Bean and casserole supper, 4:45 to 6 p.m., Calvary United Methodist Church, 59 Sabattus St. Adults, $6; children under 12, $3. Includes pies, desserts and biscuits.

Lisbon, Saturday, April 9: Joe Graziano scholarship fund-raiser amateur boxing, 7 p.m., Lisbon High School. Promoted by “BoxCar Willy” Carville and his dad. Scholarship benefits a CMCC culinary arts student. FMI: 353-5078 or e-mail TD1154@juno.com.

Mechanic Falls, Saturday, April 9: Auxiliary Chinese auction, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., American Legion Post 150, Elm Street. White elephant table, food sale, Ratar knives.

Minot, Saturday, April 9: Basket bingo, noon; doors open at 10:30 a.m., Minot Consolidated School. $10, advance; $13, at the door. Sponsored by Minot Community Club. Benefit for the school. For tickets call: 346-6471.

Topsham, Saturday, April 9: Lisbon Community School’s family roller skating, 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., Howard Sports, Route 201, formerly Roller World. $4 at the door, includes skates; blades $2 extra. Sponsored by LCS Parent Teacher Organization. All students, family and friends welcome. Parents must accompany their children during entire event. FMI: contact Tina Judd, 353-5863 or e-mail tena_judd@yahoo.com.

Turner, Saturday, April 9: Baked bean supper and bluegrass gospel concert, supper from 5 to 6:30 p.m., concert at 7 p.m., Turner Village Church. Donations accepted for supper and concert. Music by the Leclaire family. FMI: 225-2258.

Lewiston, Sunday, April 10: Lewiston Singles Club dance, 7 to 11 p.m., Knights of Columbus Hall, 150 East Ave. $8/$7. Music by Bushwack.

Lewiston, Sunday, April 10: American Red Cross blood drive, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., bus drive at Army National Guard, 55 Plourde Parkway. FMI: 1-800-482-0743.

Auburn, Monday, April 11: Public pancake breakfast, 8 a.m. to noon, St. Philip’s Church, Route 4, across Lake Auburn. Adults, $3.50; children under 12, $1.50. Includes sausage, fruit cup, orange juice, milk and coffee. Sponsored by the parish family groups.

Lewiston, Monday, April 11: Bookin’ it with babies, 10 a.m., Public Library.

Lewiston, Monday, April 11: Book Buddies, 3:30 p.m., Public Library.

Lewiston, Monday, April 11: Advocates for children play group, 10 to 11 a.m., B Street Community Building, 57 Birch St., Suite 204. FMI: 783-3990.

Lewiston, Monday, April 11: American Red Cross blood drive, 1 to 6 p.m., High Street Congregational Church, 109 Pleasant St. FMI: 1-800-482-0743.

Lewiston, Tuesday, April 12: One Book/One Community, L-A Reads! reading program “Nickel & Dimed: On (Not) Getting By in America” discussion program “Struggling to Get By in Lewiston-Auburn” with moderator Sun Journal Editor Rex Rhoades, 7 p.m., Lewiston-Auburn College, 51 Westminster St.

Lewiston, Tuesday, April 12: Preschool stories, 10 a.m., Public Library.

Lewiston, Tuesday, April 12: Book discussion group features “Swallows and Amazons” by Arthur Ransome, 11 a.m., Public Library. For parents and children ages 8 to 11.

Lewiston, Tuesday, April 12: Book buddies, 3:30 p.m., Public Library.

Auburn, Wednesday, April 13: Preschool story time, 9:30 a.m., Public Library, Auburn Mall.

Lewiston, Wednesday, April 13: Countryside Dancers club night, free lessons, 6 to 7 p.m.; regular lessons, 7 to 8 p.m.; dancing, 8 to 9:30 p.m., C & J Hall, 711 Webster St.

Lewiston, Wednesday and Thursday, April 13 and 14: Peek-a-boo Theater, 9:30 to 10:30 a.m., New Life Community Center, 134 College St. Children over 1, $2. FMI: contact Paulette, 782-1112.

Lisbon Falls, Wednesday, April 13: Vocalist Heather Caston, 7 p.m., Lisbon Teen Center Coffee House, 32 Main St. Show and coffee shop is free and open to all ages. Open mike will end the evening. FMI: 353-3010 or www.bandmusicservice.com.

Auburn, Thursday, April 14: Hot Topic Electronic Resources: Medical Databases, 10 a.m., Public Library, Auburn Mall. All ages invited.

Lewiston, Thursday, April 14: L/A Arts present blues performer Oscar Brown Jr., 7:30 p.m., Ramada Inn, 490 Pleasant St. Adults, $18; children, full time students and seniors, $15; table to seat 10, $150. FMI: 1-800-639-2919, 782-7228 or visit www.laarts.org.

Lewiston, Friday, April 15: Bookin’ It with Babies, 10 a.m., Public Library.

Lewiston, Friday, April 15: Advocates for Children “Cookies and Crafts,” 10 to 11 a.m., B Street Community Building, 57 Birch St., Suite 204. FMI: 783-3990.

Auburn, Saturday, April 16: Judy D’Amour’s Saturday Stories, 10 a.m., Public Library, Auburn Mall. Featuring “Rosie’s Walk” by Pat Hutchins and Won-Ldy Paye’s “Mrs. Chicken and the Hungry Crocodile.” Children may make and decorate a baker’s clay nest to take home.

Auburn, Saturday, April 16: Bean and macaroni supper, 5 to 6 p.m., St. Philip’s Church Hall, Route 4, across from Lake Auburn. Adults, $6; children under 12, $3; under 5, free.

Lewiston, Saturday, April 16: Baked bean supper, 4 to 5:30 p.m., First United Pentecostal Church, 715 College St. Adults, $6; children under 10, $3. Includes hot dogs, coleslaw, potato salad, American chop suey, rolls, desserts, and hot or cold beverages. FMI: 784-9711.

Auburn, Sunday, April 17: Public breakfast, 8 to 10:30 a.m., VFW Post 1603, 588 Minot Ave. $3/$4. Includes coffee and juice. Benefit for Operation Uplink. FMI: 784-6883.

Augusta, Sunday, April 17: Nordica Trio concert, 2 p.m., Jewett Hall Auditorium, University of Maine Augusta. Adults, $10; students, $5; children under 12, free. Presented by UMA College of Arts and Humanities and UMA Senior College. FMI: 621-3551.

Lewiston, Sunday, April 17: Lewiston Singles Club dance, 7 to 11 p.m., Knights of Columbus Hall, 150 East Ave. $8/$7. Music by Patio Cowboys.

Lewiston, Monday, April 18: Advocates for children play group, 10 to 11 a.m., B Street Community Building, 57 Birch St., Suite 204. FMI: 783-3990.

Readfield, Monday, April 18: American Red Cross blood drive, noon to 5 p.m., Kents Hill School, Route 17. FMI: 1-800-482-0743.

Auburn, Tuesday, April 19: One Book/One Community, L-A Reads! reading program “Nickel & Dimed: On (Not) Getting By in America” discussion, 6:30 p.m., Public Library, Auburn Mall.

Lewiston, Tuesday, April 19: Preschool stories, 10 a.m., Public Library.

Lewiston, Tuesday, April 19: Book buddies, 3:30 p.m., Public Library.

Lewiston, Tuesday, April 19: One Book/One Community, L-A Reads! reading program “Nickel & Dimed: On (Not) Getting By in America” discussion, noon, Lewiston Public Library.

Auburn, Wednesday, April 20: Preschool story time, 9:30 a.m., Public Library, Auburn Mall.

Lewiston, Wednesday, April 20: Countryside Dancers club night, free lessons, 6 to 7 p.m.; regular lessons, 7 to 8 p.m.; dancing, 8 to 9:30 p.m., C & J Hall, 711 Webster St.

Auburn, Thursday, April 21: Baby’s night out, 6 to 6:20 p.m., Public Library, Auburn Mall. For babies to 24 months and their parents. Rhymes, songs, clapping games.

Auburn, Thursday, April 21: American Red Cross blood drive, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Central Maine Community College, 1250 Turner St. FMI: 1-800-482-0743.

Greene, Thursday and Friday, April 21 and 22: Sawyer Memorial presents the film “In Search of Shangri-La” narrated by Buddy Hatton, 7 p.m. Thursday; 2 and 7 p.m. Friday, 371 Sawyer Road. Free. Doors open one hour before shows. Show duration is 90 minutes. FMI: 946-5311.

Lewiston, Friday, April 22: Bookin’ It with Babies, 10 a.m., Public Library.

Lewiston, Friday, April 22: Advocates for Children “Cookies and Crafts,” 10 to 11 a.m., B Street Community Building, 57 Birch St., Suite 204. FMI: 783-3990.

Lewiston, Friday, April 22: American Red Cross blood drive, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., bus drive at Geiger, Mount Hope Avenue. FMI: 1-800-482-0743.

Lewiston, Friday, April 22: American Red Cross blood drive, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Lewiston Auburn College, 51-55 Westminster St. FMI: 1-800-482-0743.

Lewiston, Saturday, April 23: Scrapbooking event, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Lewiston High School cafeteria, 156 East Ave. $20 if registered before April 10; $25 after April 10. Products, catalogs, raffles and bake sales. Proceeds for new LHS fitness center. Sponsored by LHS Fitness Center. FMI: contact Matthew Gutshall, 786-4674 or e-mail mgutshall88@aol.com, Carrie Qualiaroli, 795-4190 or e-mail cquagliaroli@lewnet.avcnet.org.

Lewiston, Saturday, April 23: Countryside Dancers dance, 7:30 to 10:30 p.m., C & J Hall, 711 Webster St. This dance replaces March’s canceled anniversary dance.

Lisbon, Saturday, April 23: Auxiliary public supper, 5 to 6:30 p.m., VFW Post 9459, Route 196. Adults, $6; children under 10, $3. Includes beans, hot dogs, coleslaw, American chop suey, dessert and coffee or tea. FMI: 353-2152.

Mechanic Falls, Saturday, April 23: Variety music concert with The Golden Nuggets, 7 p.m., First Congregational Church. Free will offering. Refreshments available.

Turner, Saturday, April 23: Spring time dance, 8 p.m. to midnight, Boofy Quimby Memorial Center. $10 per person. Public welcome. Music by Rockin’ Road Runners Band. 50/50. FMI, tickets or table reservations: contact Betty, 597-2299. Sponsored by Buckfield Buckeneers Football Association.

Lewiston, Sunday, April 24: Lewiston Singles Club dance, 7 to 11 p.m., Knights of Columbus Hall, 150 East Ave. $8/$7. Music by Steve and Good Old Boys.

Manchester, Sunday, April 24: Manchester Grange antiques show, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Grange Hall, Route 202. $1.50 admission. Quality dealers, home-cooked lunches. Proceeds for Grange scholarship fund and local elementary school. FMI: 623-3436.

Lewiston, Monday, April 25: Bookin’ it with babies, 10 a.m., Public Library.

Lewiston, Monday, April 25: Book Buddies, 3:30 p.m., Public Library.

Lewiston, Monday, April 25: Advocates for children play group, 10 to 11 a.m., B Street Community Building, 57 Birch St., Suite 204. FMI: 783-3990.

Auburn, Tuesday, April 26: Middle-readers book discussion series features “The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde” by Robert Lewis Stevenson. FMI and to register: contact the children’s room, 782-3191, ext. 3.

Lewiston, Tuesday, April 26: Preschool stories, 10 a.m., Public Library.

Lewiston, Tuesday, April 26: Book buddies, 3:30 p.m., Public Library.

Auburn, Wednesday, April 27: Preschool story time, 9:30 a.m., Public Library, Auburn Mall.

Lewiston, Wednesday, April 27: Countryside Dancers club night, free lessons, 6 to 7 p.m.; regular lessons, 7 to 8 p.m.; dancing, 8 to 9:30 p.m., C & J Hall, 711 Webster St.

Lewiston, Friday, April 29: Bookin’ It with Babies, 10 a.m., Public Library.

Lewiston, Friday, April 29: L/A Arts kid show “Robin Hood: Thief of Hearts,” 7 p.m., Lewiston Middle School, 75 Central Ave. $7.50 per person; 4 for $25. FMI: 1-800-639-2919, 782-7228 or visit www.laarts.org.

Portland, Friday, April 29: Dance, 7 to 11 p.m., Portland Elks, Congress Street. Music by Vintage.

Greene, Saturday, April 30: American Red Cross blood drive, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., Fire Department, Patten Road. FMI: 1-800-482-0743.

Lewiston, Sunday, May 1: Lewiston Singles Club dance, 7 to 11 p.m., Knights of Columbus Hall, 150 East Ave. $8/$7. Music by Wild Horse.

Sabattus, Sunday, May 1: Buffet breakfast, 7:30 to 10 a.m., Harry J. Conway Post 135, Island Road. Adults, $5; children under 10, $2.

Sabattus, Friday and Saturday, May 6 and 7: Dominican Sisters spring bazaar, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Dominican Sisters Convent, 61 Lisbon Road. Proceeds for Loaves and Fishes. FMI: 375-8399.

Casco, Saturday, May 7: Public supper, 5 to 6:30 p.m., Crescent Lake Community Hall, Route 11, Webbs Mills. Adults, $6; children under 12, $3; under 5, free. Includes baked beans, hot dogs, American chop suey, salads, bread, beverage and homemade pies.

Lewiston, Saturday, May 7: All Maine Invitational: L/A Arts art auction, 8 p.m.; social from 6 to 8 p.m., Lewiston Auburn College, 51 Westminster St. $30 advance; $35 at the door. Gala event. Music, wine, hors d’oeuvres. FMI: 1-800-639-2919, 782-7228 or visit www.laarts.org.

Topsham, Saturday, May 7: Kids fun day, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Hannaford, Topsham Fair Mall. Games, prizes, ice cream social. FMI: 353-2283.

Lewiston, Sunday, May 8: Lewiston Singles Club dance, 7 to 11 p.m., Knights of Columbus Hall, 150 East Ave. $8/$7. Music by Bill Trowell Trio.

Lewiston, Thursday, May 12: L/A Arts presents a rock, country and blues concert with Rosie Flores, 7:30 p.m., Ramada Inn, 490 Pleasant St. Adults, $18; children, full time students and seniors, $15; table to seat up to 10, $150. FMI: 1-800-639-2919, 782-7228 or www.laarts.org.

Winthrop, Friday, May 13: Fish chowder luncheon, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Winthrop Congregational Church. Adults, $6. Takeouts available. Wheelchair accessible.

New Gloucester, Saturday, May 14: Fiddlehead Center for the Arts International Art and Cultural Festival, 9:30 a.m., Pineland Campus, 83 Pineland Drive. Adults, $6; children under 12, free. Rain or shine. Puppet workshop, parade, Flamenco dancers, master drummer Shamou, mime artist Karen Montanaro, 12 piece Salsa orchestra dance band la Perfecta, and the “Global Village” featuring international performances, education and hands-on activities. FMI: 688-2244 or visit www.fiddleheadcenter.org.

Lewiston, Sunday, May 15: Lewiston Singles Club dance, 7 to 11 p.m., Knights of Columbus Hall, 150 East Ave. $8/$7. Music by Clary Hill.

Lewiston, Sunday, May 22: Lewiston Singles Club dance, 7 to 11 p.m., Knights of Columbus Hall, 150 East Ave. $8/$7. Music by Country Ladds.

Lewiston, Sunday, May 29: Lewiston Singles Club dance, 7 to 11 p.m., Knights of Columbus Hall, 150 East Ave. $8/$7. Music by Steve and Good Old Boys.

Turner, Sunday, May 29: Free distribution of vegetable seeds, noon to 1 p.m., Turner Village Church. The second step in the three-step shared harvest dinner happening Sunday Oct. 9. FMI: 225-2248.

Sabattus, Sunday, June 5: Buffet breakfast, 7:30 to 10 a.m., Harry J. Conway Post 135, Island Road. Adults, $5; children under 10, $2.