FPD Citizens Police Academy

FARMINGTON — The Farmington Police Department is accepting applications for the 11-week Citizens Police Academy, which will be held for three hours on Wednesdays beginning Oct. 5. The academy is free.

The training is given to foster a better understanding between the residents of Farmington and the police through education. Graduates will gain an understanding of the diverse demands and operational requirements of the department and develop an awareness and appreciation of various challenges and decisions faced on a daily basis by police officers.

Applications may be obtained at the department at 116 Franklin Ave. Space is limited, and the deadline to apply is 4 p.m. Monday, Sept. 26.

FMI: 207-778-6311.

Ranked-choice voting presentation 

NORWAY — Mainers will head to the polls Nov. 8 to decide on Question 5, which asks voters whether to replace the current voting system with ranked-choice voting for federal and state primary and general elections beginning in 2018.

Finn Melanson from the League of Women Voters of Maine Education Fund will speak on this topic at 6 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 22, at the Norway Memorial Library, 258 Main St.

Sumner Harvest and Barn Sale

SUMNER — The Congregational Church of East Sumner will host its eighth annual Harvest and Barn Sale from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 24, in the church yard at 50 Main St.

The sale includes about 15 local vendors and a large selection of raffle items, along with breakfast and a bean lunch with indoor and outdoor dining. The event will be rain or shine.

FMI: 207-388-2667, 207-388-2263.

Reading Room ribbon-cutting

RUMFORD — The Rumford Public Library trustees, friends and staff will celebrate the restoration of the library’s Reading Room from 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 24. 

The ribbon-cutting ceremony will be held at 2:15 p.m. followed by a party in the public room. It will include balloons for children, tote bags to purchase and refreshments prepared and served by the famous Region 9 culinary students. Philip Kane will provide classical guitar music.

The event is free and open to the public. 

FMI: 207-364-3661, ext 1.

Rehearsals to begin for Christmastide

NORWAY — The 2016 Christmastide Choir will begin rehearsals at 3 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 25, at the Second Congregational Church UCC, 205 Main St.

All voices of all ages who love Christmas music are encouraged to join the choir. No memorization, no auditions and no church affiliations are required.

This year’s choral director is Shirli Allen Heald, with piano accompaniment by Elaine Emery.

The concerts will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 10 and 11.

The church’s English Hand Bell choir will also perform in Christmastide 2016. Those interested in ringing may call 207-743-2290.