Whale watch for Endangered Species Day
Celebrate Endangered Species Day with a whale watch aboard the M/V Prince of Whales out of Newburyport on Sunday, May 18, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
In recognition of the importance of the Gulf of Maine to a number of endangered species, the Portsmouth, N.H.-based nonprofit organization Blue Ocean Society for Marine Conservation is hosting the event.
The trip, offered in conjunction with Newburyport Whale Watch, will head out into the Gulf of Maine in search of endangered species and others, including the fin whale, the second-largest animal on the planet; humpback whales, minke whales, and a variety of pelagic birds and fish.
It will feature commentary from the group's naturalists/research scientists and an opportunity to interact with its staff and volunteers. Bring cameras and binoculars.
The outing goes off rain or shine. The cost is $75, $60 for Blue Ocean Society members, and reservations are requested. Proceeds benefit the society's local research, education and conservation programs. Call 603-431-0260 or visit http://www.blueoceansociety.org/ww.htm.
Amesbury caregiver support group
A support group for caregivers of people suffering with memory loss meets the third Wednesday of every month from 7 to 9 p.m. at Amesbury Health Center, 24 Morrill Place, Amesbury.
The group is led by Tricia Lavoie, MSW. Participants are encouraged to share common experiences and explore solutions for daily problems and long-range decisions.
Introduction to Tao Yin Fa exercise
Local acupuncturist Rose Dobosz will offer a free class in Tao Yin Fa, a meridian-style qi gong, on Wednesday, May 28, from 7:45 to 8:45 a.m. at the Newburyport Yoga Center, 12 Maple St., Newburyport.
The class kicks off a six-week series in the health exercise, which is designed to stretch and expand the energy meridians in the body to create balance and harmony between the brain and the body. Tao Yin Fa movements are graceful and simple, and done mindfully and repetitively.
Dobosz is a certified practitioner of Tama-Do, a five-element style of Chinese medicine using vibration with running forks, sound healing, color and movement to stimulate health.
No experience is necessary for the introductory class. The cost for the series is $50. Registration is required by calling 978-973-0499.
Weekly Buddhist meditation
First Religious Society, Unitarian Universalist, 26 Pleasant St., Newburyport, is presenting a weekly Buddhist meditation group on Mondays from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Co-sponsored by the First Religious Society and Buddha Heart USA, the group is open to experienced practitioners as well as newcomers to meditation. It consists of qi gong and kai gong practice, and includes gentle exercise, chanting and sitting meditation. Admission is free. Call 978-465-0602, ext. 401.
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