PORTLAND, ME – As the busy Fourth of July holiday week gets going, the American Red Cross asks donors to celebrate by making a blood or platelet donation appointment to help power the blood supply through mid-summer. While all blood types are needed, donors with type O blood are most urgently needed.

Making and keeping donation appointments now is critical to ensuring blood products are available for all patients – including those in trauma situations that may require several lifesaving transfusions – in the weeks to come. Type O negative blood is often reached for in emergencies when there isn’t time to match a patient’s blood type. Type O positive is the most common blood type, so it’s important to keep type O blood and all blood types on hand at hospitals for people facing both chronic illness and sudden, life-threatening conditions.

Don’t wait – add a blood or platelet donation appointment to your summer calendar today by visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS or by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App. 

The Red Cross and goodr are joining forces in July to remind donors they’re just the type patients can count on. All who come to give July 1-14, 2025, will get an exclusive pair of Red Cross x goodr sunglasses, while supplies last. Donors can personalize their one-of-a-kind shades with a blood type sticker! For details, visit RedCrossBlood.org/goodr.

Or, those who make it in to give by June 30, 2025, will get a $15 Amazon.com Gift Card by email, plus be automatically entered to win one of two $7,000 gift cards. See RedCrossBlood.org/June.

Upcoming blood donation opportunities through July 14

Cumberland

Brunswick

7/9/2025: 12 p.m. – 5 p.m., Elks Lodge, 179 Park Row

Cape Elizabeth

7/10/2025: 12 p.m. – 4 p.m., Saint Bartholomew Church, 8 Two Lights Rd

Falmouth

7/9/2025: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., Lunt Auditorium, 74 Lunt Road

Freeport

7/10/2025: 12 p.m. – 4 p.m., Hilton Garden Inn Freeport – Old Town Hall Building, 5 Park Street

Gorham

7/3/2025: 10 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., Cressey Road Christian Church, 81 Cressey Road

Portland

7/7/2025: 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., Maine Medical Center – Dana Education Center, 22 Bramhall Street

South Portland

7/8/2025: 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., American Legion, 413 Broadway

Westbrook

7/11/2025: 12 p.m. – 4 p.m., Westbrook Community Center, 426 Bridge Street

Yarmouth

7/9/2025: 9 a.m. – 2 p.m., Yarmouth AmVets, 148 North Rd

7/11/2025: 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., American Legion Post 91, 196 Main St

GORHAM, ME – North Gorham Public Library hosted a successful fly-tying event in June. Many thanks to Registered Maine Fishing Guide Joe Dacey, who did a great job demonstrating his tying techniques. Even those of us who don’t fish were spellbound watching him and learning not only how to tie flies but also when and how to use them.

Dave Briguglio, from Steep Falls, got a hands-on lesson from Joe and successfully tied his first fly. It was a Mickey Finn. Good luck fishing, Dave!

We plan to hold another fly-tying session with Joe during the winter. It’s the time of year in Maine when you dream of fishing season and have more time to tie those flies.

BRUNSWICK, ME – Maine State Music Theatre continues its 2025 summer season with the laugh-out-loud Broadway comedy Tootsie, running through July 12 at the Pickard Theater on the Bowdoin College campus.

Full of big laughs, bigger feels, and a healthy dose of Broadway razzmatazz, Tootsie is a high-energy musical comedy that proves sometimes you have to think fast—and dress faster—to make your dreams come true.

Based on the legendary Dustin Hoffman film, Tootsie tells the story of Michael Dorsey, a talented but notoriously difficult actor who reinvents himself as the unstoppable Dorothy Michaels to land a starring role in a Broadway musical. What begins as a desperate career move spirals into a hilarious and heartfelt journey through fame, chaos, and unexpected lessons about love, honesty, and identity.

Tootsie features a book by Robert Horn (Shucked, Dame Edna Back With a Vengeance) and music and lyrics by Tony Award-winning David Yazbek (Dead Outlaw, The Full Monty, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels). With non-stop laughs, witty social commentary, and show-stopping musical numbers, the production promises an unforgettable night at the theatre.

The MSMT production stars Dan DeLuca (Newsies National Tour) as Michael Dorsey/Dorothy Michaels, Kristina Leopold (Broadway: SIX) as Julie Nichols, and Jen Cody (Broadway: A Christmas Story, Shrek, The Pajama Game, Seussical) as the scene-stealing Sandy Lester.

Rounding out the principal cast are Pascal Victor Pestrana (Broadway: The Great Gatsby, Mean Girls) as Max Van Horn, Nick Gaswirth (MSMT: Anastasia, Broadway: How to Dance in Ohio) as Jeff Slater, Charis Leos (a veteran of over 35 MSMT productions!) as Rita Marshall, David Girolmo (Broadway: War Paint, Candide) as Stan Fields, and Nathan Cockroft (MSMT: Grease) as Ron Carlisle.

The ensemble includes Corey Barrow, Bailey Blaise, Lani Corson, Bradley Gibbins-Klein, Chris Hunter, Cynthia Kauffman, Elise Kinnon, Kevin Ivey Morrison, Rachel Revellese, and Harrison Asher Smith.

Tootsie is directed and choreographed by Mark Martino, with music direction by Brian Cimmet, scenic design by Kyle Dixon, costume design by Katie Dowse, and lighting design by Seifallah Salotto-Cristobal. Shannon Slaton serves as sound designer, with Jerran Kowalski providing video and projections design, and Kevin S. Foster II as wig designer. Mark Johnson serves as Production Stage Manager. Elise Kinnon is Associate Director/Co-Choreographer and Jacob Stebly is Associate Music Director.

Tootsie is licensed by Music Theatre International (MTI).

For tickets and more information, visit www.msmt.org or call the MSMT Box Office at 207.725.8769.

PORTLAND, ME – Ronald McDonald House Charities® (RMHC) of Maine is excited to announce that this year, they will be hosting two golf tournament fundraisers, both proudly presented by Troiano Waste Services.

The Inaugural RMHC Maine Golf Tournament of Central Maine will take place on Monday, August 18, at Waterville Country Club in Oakland. Then, on Monday, September 15, we’ll return to Falmouth Country Club in Falmouth for the 33rd Annual RMHC Maine Golf Tournament of Southern Maine. Registration is now open for both tournaments.

With a combined fundraising goal of $230,000, these tournaments are not only an amazing day out on the links for golfers—they are critical in supporting the four RMHC Maine programs serving families across the state.

RMHC Maine Golf Tournament of Central Maine presented by Troiano Waste Services

Monday, August 18, 2025 | 10 am Shotgun Start

Waterville Country Club, Oakland, Maine

The tournament will feature a scramble format with a 10 am shotgun start. Following the tournament, attendees will enjoy a cocktail hour and program. Prizes will be awarded to the top three teams, as well as for the longest drive. All proceeds from this event benefit RMHC Maine’s mission of providing comfort to families of pediatric patients.

Learn more at: onecau.se/rmhcgolfcentral

RMHC Maine Golf Tournament of Southern Maine presented by Troiano Waste Services

Monday, September 15, 2025 | 12 pm Shotgun Start

Falmouth Country Club, Falmouth, Maine

The tournament will feature a scramble format with a noon shotgun start. Following the tournament, attendees will enjoy a cocktail hour and program. Prizes will be awarded to the top three teams, as well as for the longest drive. All proceeds from this event benefit RMHC Maine’s mission of providing comfort to families of pediatric patients.

Learn more at: onecau.se/rmhcgolfsouthern

PORTLAND, ME – Atlantic hurricane season began this month. Disasters like hurricanes and severe summer weather can disrupt blood drives for several days and impact the momentum of a growing blood supply. Help the American Red Cross plan for the unexpected by making an appointment to give blood or platelets.

Even when hospitals are fully stocked with blood products, sudden events can cause a rapid drop in the availability of lifesaving transfusions. While many may be engaging in outdoor adventures this month, the Red Cross asks people to continue making and keeping donation appointments a part of their June plans.

Blood has a shelf life of 42 days, which means ongoing donations are key to ensure medical needs are met. Type O blood donors and those giving platelets are especially needed as the summer season continues. 

Upcoming blood donation opportunities

Cumberland

Brunswick

6/28/2025: 9 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., United Masonic Lodge #8, 65 Baribeau Dr

Portland

6/26/2025: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m., Portland Elks Lodge, 1945 Congress St.

South Portland

6/30/2025: 9 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., Portland Sheraton at Sable Oaks, 200 Sable Oaks Drive

Westbrook

6/27/2025: 12 p.m. – 4:30 p.m., Westbrook Community Center, 426 Bridge Street

Windham

6/30/2025: 10 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., North Windham Union Church, 723 Roosevelt Trail, Route 302

How to donate blood?

Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit?RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enable the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age?in most states?(16 with parental consent?where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.?

Blood and platelet donors can save time at their next donation by using RapidPass® to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of their donation, before arriving at the blood drive. To get started, follow the instructions at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or use the Blood Donor App.?

Amplify your impact ? volunteer!?

Another way to support the lifesaving mission of the Red Cross is to become a volunteer blood donor ambassador at Red Cross blood drives. Blood donor ambassadors help greet, check in and thank blood donors to ensure they have a positive donation experience.?

Volunteers can also serve as transportation specialists, playing a vital role in ensuring lifesaving blood products are delivered to nearby hospitals. For more information and to apply for either position visit redcross.org/volunteertoday.?

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MAINE – This week, we proudly honor our dedicated Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) during CNA Celebration Week at Genesis HealthCare – Springbrook Center. These incredible individuals go above and beyond every day to provide compassionate, quality care to our residents, making a lasting impact in their lives.

Please join us in recognizing the hard work and heart of our amazing CNA team:

Maureen Ann Dube

Nelda DeMerrit

Robin M. Fortin

Kathleen West

Mary Ridge

Angela Brynes

Kendall Meslin

Candide Na Mujawayezu

Taylor Elizabeth McDonough

Samantha Tshipama Musau

Bernadette Musaniwabo

Kellie Myers

Pruxelles Tshituka Mujinga

Alphonsine Mukeshimana

Maria Evanga Khuabi

Katelyn Faith Johnson

Prosper Bolae Lohomboli

Clarisse Ishimwe

Carolyn A Jobin

Teresa Teresa Luzolo

Nissi Djalu Lussamaki

Martine Kasang Mathand

Olivia Lora Orobiyi

Yemba Basakinina Louise

Mariah Marie Stone

Denyell Marie Stone

Dianna L Tripp

Lecane Rwakayija

Cristela Matondo Sambo

Ashley Wallace

Ashleigh Morgan Walker

Holly Wilson

Helena Kianu Vangu

Emeberta Auza Villacarlos

Christine Nyembo

Natcha Nathy Nambi Nyakura

Pascaline Zagabe Nyota

Nadine Nahinmana

Paulina Nsuele

Patricia Reed

Philip Dul Pheng

Nicole Marie Romiza

Evaristus Okechukwu Omeh

Jeimy Yesenia Ortiz Moore

Matthew DiPietrantonio

Adelin Delgado

Kimberly Jean Dobbie

Lionel Daniels

Kristen Day

Annika Joshleen Felicie

Kimberly Ha

Alexis Gayle-Constance Dotson

Didi Dokete Ebaka

Norbert Blaise Bimenyimana

Cheryl A Baricko

Balemba Bisimwa

Ange Christelle Abaribeza

Jamila Wanjiry Adamson

Rabecca Bwembya

Aboudou D Assirou

Kerry Anne Brice

Chynaida Saffera Brutus

Todd M. Hilton

Romana Maquembe Ilunga

Autumn Catherine Valeriani

Jennifer L Pennell

Susan Smith

Laura Maynard

Miriam Hayley

Amy Thibodeau

Majorie Ellis

We are so grateful for each of you!

Interested in making a difference? Come join the Genesis Family at Springbrook! Call 207-856-1230 or email: marjorie.ellis@genesishcc.com to learn more about our open positions and how you can be part of our mission to care, heal, and inspire.

GORHAM, ME – Children in grades pre-K through 5 are invited to enjoy the fun and magic of theater at North Gorham Public Library.  

Actors from Portland Stage Company will perform a dramatic reading of children’s stories. After, children will be able to participate in an interactive acting workshop where they’ll learn how to use their bodies, voices, and imaginations to bring stories and characters to life.

Portland Stage Company at North Gorham Library

Friday, July 11

10 am to 1:30 am

MAINE – Registration is now open for the 3rd Annual Bernd Heinrich Raven Run to be held on Saturday, July 12 at 9:00 a.m.

Runners will be treated to 4 miles of spectacular mountain running overlooking the pristine waters of Webb Lake and surrounded by the Tumbledown Range. This special event honors legendary ultramarathoner, acclaimed biologist, and award-winning author Bernd Heinrich on his 85th birthday while supporting the Webb Lake Association’s conservation efforts.

The first-place male and female finishers will each receive $100 and have their names etched on the commemorative Raven Run trophy.

Registration will be open online through Friday, July 11th @ 5:00 pm., or in person the morning of the event. The cost is $25.00 per person in advance or $30.00 the day of the event. We are offering a family discount of $20.00 per person in advance or $25.00 the day of the event. Walkers are also encouraged to participate and join in the post-race celebration of Bernd Heinrich’s 85th birthday.

The race will kick off the Lake Association’s annual “Lake Day” event that has been held for over 30 years.

GORHAM, ME – As part of the Town’s commitment to help address climate change and reduce its carbon footprint, the Town of Gorham has been selected as a recipient of a Community Action Grant award from the Community Resilience Partnership.

Gorham received an award of $56,077 to retrofit municipal buildings with LED lighting, which will improve energy efficiency and save local taxpayers money by lowering long-term costs.

Gorham Facilities Coordinator Kevin Wood stated that Gorham will also receive $11,103 in funding from Efficiency Maine for this project.

As of May 28, most light fixtures on the first floor of the Gorham Municipal Center were replaced.

As of June 10, the lighting retrofit project has been completed at the Gorham Municipal Center.

488 fluorescent lights were replaced with energy-saving LED fixtures, helping to reduce the Town’s carbon footprint and lower energy costs.

The Gorham Recreation Department had previously installed LED lights in the Shaw Gym and the Council Chambers were also recently converted to LED fixtures.

This project was made possible with funding from a Community Action Grant as well as a rebate from Efficiency Maine, both programs administered by the State of Maine, and from the dedicated efforts of Assistant Town Planner Damon Yakovleff, Facilities Coordinator Kevin Wood and Town Engineer Chuck Norton.

GORHAM, ME – 18 of Gorham High School’s Art 2 students just wrapped up the school year with a project called “Chair Masters.” Students in Sarah Dolley’s class chose a work of art by a fine artist to recreate onto a metal folding chair.  On the back of the chairs each student wrote an artist statement that describes the fine artist & artwork chosen as well as their reason for choosing it.  The chairs will be part of our school’s installation art to supply seating for use by visitors to events at GHS. 

Pictured from left to right: Natalie Wilkins, CeCe Sloat, Larissa Moore, Stella Wu, Terra Rioux, Eva Wandell, Jasmine Radjabova, Anna Nichols, Kennady Peary, Liam Delaney, Tyler Olson, Max Lampron, Collin Bunch, Jacob Pike, Antoine Dube & Bennett Deveaux.  Not pictured:  Annabelle Vail & Arwen Bravo