ACA program at Lithgow Library

AUGUSTA — Lithgow Public Library will host an informational program on the Affordable Care Act at 6:30 p.m. Monday, Dec. 2, in the Reading Room. Malory Shaughnessy of Maine Community Health Options will give an overview of different insurance exchange options and will answer questions. The program is free and open to the public.

The Affordable Care Act puts in place major changes to health insurance so that all Americans can find affordable health insurance options on the new Health Insurance Marketplace, where people and small businesses will be able to compare health plans.

On Oct. 1, the marketplace opened for individuals, families and small businesses to get health insurance. Health insurance companies all have to describe their plans in the same way in the marketplace so consumers can easily compare them.

Maine Community Health Options is Maine’s first nonprofit, consumer-operated health insurance plan. Representatives are making presentations around the state to help answer questions about the new health care options.

Lithgow Library is at 45 Winthrop St. For more information, call 626-2415 or visit www.lithgow.lib.me.us.

Medical marijuana information

AUGUSTA — Medical Marijuana Caregivers of Maine will hold a free informational meeting and networking session for patients, caregivers and members of the public from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 11, at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 9 Summer St.

Learn more about Maine’s medical marijuana law, who is being helped by it, what changes are expected and how to get involved in helping people in need.

MMCM is participating in a food drive for medical marijuana patients in Maine, and will be collecting nonperishable goods at this event. All people who donate items will receive a free pin of their choice.

For additional information, call 207-596-3501.

Polar Bear Dip, 5K is Dec. 31

PORTLAND — The Polar Bear Dip and 5K race will be held Tuesday, Dec 31, in Portland’s East End to support the Natural Resources Council of Maine’s work to reduce climate changing pollution.

Registration opens at 9:30 a.m. at the Back Cove parking area, across from Hannaford. The 5K begins at 11 a.m. and the dip will be at noon. A shuttle will return participants to their cars after the dip at East End Beach.

For more information or to preregister, visit nrcm.kintera.org/dipdash.