New Year plans under way

New Year Gorham gets better every year, according to Karen DiDonato, performance coordinator for the annual event.

“We have several new performances to offer this year, as well as others returning by popular demand. We are sure that everyone, no matter what age, will have a wonderful time in Gorham on New Year’s Eve,” DiDonato said in a statement.

Randy Judkins will entertain at the Gorham Performing Arts Center in the high school. Judkins has entertained audiences all over the United States, Canada and Europe and he is sure to make Gorham laugh with his juggling, unicycling and “just plain funny stuff.”

Also new this year, Dan Grady and his Marionettes, who will strut their stuff – roller skating, tightrope walking and dancing at the Odd Fellows Building Theater. Carlene Stillson’s Irish Stepdancers will perform at the Shaw Gym.

“We don’t want to let all the surprises out of the bag,” said DiDonato, “but we are especially excited to announce that our performances will conclude with a powerful act of magical illusion by the Magic of Steelgraves and, of course a spectacular fireworks display,”

Virginia Wilder Cross, chairwoman of the event said, “We are trying something new this year – we’ve adjusted the time of our celebration to fit the time limits of young families. Our celebration will begin with a spaghetti supper at 5 p.m. and conclude with fireworks at 10 p.m. This will allow families with young children to enjoy the entire celebration and be safely at home for a reasonable bed time,” Cross said.

Volunteer opportunities are still available, according to the Rev. Tom Hasbrouck of Galilee Baptist Church, who serves as the volunteer coordinator for New Year Gorham. Most volunteers work about an hour on New Year’s Eve and they all receive a free admission button for their time. Those interested in volunteering should call 837-1838.

Individual admission buttons cost $5, and family packages for $20 are available at the Gorham Recreation Department through Friday, Dec. 30. There will a nominal additional charge for the spaghetti dinner. Those proceeds will benefit the missions project planned by the First Parish Church Youth Group.

Complete schedules and buttons are available at Hannaford-Gorham, Baxter Memorial Library, Casco Federal Credit Union in Gorham and Westbrook and Gorham Recreation Department. Information is also available by visiting www.newyeargorham.org.

You’re invited

to pageant

Faith Lutheran Church of North Windham will present “Christmas In The Barn” at 1 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 18, at Shady Maple Farm, 443 Sebago Lake Road, in Gorham.

The Christmas pageant features live animals and caroling.

Sand pails for seniors

Gorham-Westbrook Triad is now offering sand pails for senior citizens to use this winter. These pails, donated by Cooks Hardware and Tru-Value Hardware, are for use on icy steps and walkways.

Senior citizens should contact Officer Ted Hatch of Gorham Police at 839-5581, ext. 279; and for Westbrook call Capt. Tom Roth, 854-0644.

Free car seat check

Gorham Fire Department is holding a free inspection of child car seat 10 a.m.-2 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 10, at the Public Safety Building 270 Main St.

The inspection will be held inside a heated area.