Poet Laureate to visit library

RUMFORD — The Rumford Library’s 4th Thursday Poetry group will welcome Poet Laureate Wesley McNair for his third visit from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 22.

McNair will read poems of gratitude and celebration specially for Thanksgiving time in the Public Room. A reception with light refreshments will follow the program, which is free and open to the public.

FMI: 207-364-3661.

Haunted Hayride to spook Buckfield

BUCKFIELD — Buckfield Junior-Senior High School will host its EIGHT annual Haunted Hayride Friday and Saturday, Oct. 23 and 24, at Bessey’s Field on Paris Hill Road.

The cost is $5. The ride will run from 6 to 10 p.m., rain or shine. The hayride is a fundraiser for this year’s graduating class.

Food will be available, and raffle items will be on display.

3rd Annual Jack-o’-Lantern Spectacular

SOUTH PARIS — The Third Annual Jack-o’-Lantern Spectacular will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Oct. 23 and 24, at the McLaughlin Garden at 103 Main St.

Hundreds of carved pumpkins will line garden paths. Area students and garden volunteers will prepare the seasonal display. A giant pumpkin decorated by an experienced woodcarver will be prominently displayed. The barn will be decorated and season music will set the mood.

The ticket price of $5 includes cider and popcorn. Children younger than 2 are free.

Those bringing carved pumpkins before noon on Oct. 23 will receive free admission. Carvers may pick up their pumpkins on Sunday.

Special this year will be photo opportunity set-ups. Props for seasonal pictures will be available so that participants may take selfies or have others snap pictures. Attendees may come in costume to take full advantage.

Scrap for Hope canceled

RUMFORD — The Hope Association has canceled its event, the October Scrap for Hope. 

Those who registered will be reimbersed for tuition. 

Alzheimer’s Association expands programs

SCARBOROUGH — The Alzheimer’s Association Maine Chapter has launched two new support programs to help people living in the early-stage of Alzheimer’s remain connected and engaged after being diagnosed. Early-Stage Support Program is now being offered in Bangor and Lewiston.

The Alzheimer’s Association’s Early Stage Support Groups are designed to provide emotional, educational and social support for people in the early stage of Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia through regularly scheduled meetings. Support groups are led by a trained facilitator whose primary purpose is to provide information about Alzheimer’s disease while allowing members to receive support and encouragement from others in a similar situation.

Due to very high demand, the two new programs in Lewiston and Bangor were filled immediately, but the longstanding Portland support group is currently screening for new participants between now and Oct. 26. Those interested may be placed on waiting lists for future sessions.

FMI: 207-772-0115, pbaker@alz.org.