Tragedy struck the Daniel Ackley family of Nichols Road in Searsport just after Christmas, when they lost their home to fire.

Not only did they lose their home, but they also lost their dog that had awakened them, their cat, and all of their Christmas presents and possessions.

To help the family through this difficult time, a committee of staff members of Searsport Elementary School and many caring members of the community will hold a benefit supper for the Ackleys.

A public supper featuring baked beans, hot dogs, macaroni and cheese, breads, desserts and beverages will be held at 5 p.m. Friday, Jan. 21, at the Searsport Lions Club on Prospect Street in Searsport.

Committee member Charlene Farris reports that, in lieu of an admission fee, donations will be accepted at the door.

Individuals who cannot attend but who would like to help the family by making a donation can make checks payable to Searsport Elementary School and mail them to SES, 30 Mortland Road, Searsport 04974.

For more information about this benefit, call SES principal Darlene Paine, 548-2318.

Dr. Judy Walker, a University of Maine communication scientist and associate professor of the Department of Communication Science and Disorders, is asking people recuperating from a stroke to participate in a research project.

Walker studies the effect of stroke on the ability to understand language.

Study participants must have had a stroke that may have caused specific types of problems such as difficulty understanding and speaking with others, paying attention and remembering, solving problems and recognizing visual clues.

With 25 years of clinical practice and 10 years in clinical research, Walker’s work assists the medical community and other researchers identifying specific areas of brain damage and prescribing the newest rehabilitation techniques for stroke survivors.

Walker will work with participants in their homes and other settings. The initial screening lasts about one hour.

Those who qualify for additional testing can expect to spend two to three hours on the test procedures, which can be spread over two sessions.

Volunteers also will receive a free hearing screening and language test.

According to a university spokesman, since this is a continuing research project, admission is open and ongoing, and there is no registration deadline for the opportunity to work with one of the top national researchers in this field.

If you are interested in becoming part of this project, call Walker at 581-2003.

Cathy Brown, director of communications for the Abnaki Girl Scout Council in Brewer, wants you to know it has partnered with the Family Programs Office of the Maine National Guard to distribute Girl Scout cookies to Maine soldiers.

Some cookies will be given those who are returning home, and other cookies will be sent to those on active duty in Iraq and elsewhere.

To order cookies for American troops, call the Council at (800) 464-3858 or 989-7474.

Orders will be taken by credit card, or you can send a check to Abnaki Girl Scout Council, 156 North Main St., Brewer 04412.

Cookies are $3.50 per box and, since postage is about $1 per box, donations to cover postage would be most appreciated.

Individuals willing to travel who are interested in learning how to make stylish caps that help keep cancer patients warm can do so by attending Sew From the Heart.

This program, for sewers of all levels, is being offered from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 20, at Cote Bros. Sewing in the Auburn Plaza.

Central Maine Medical Center volunteer Brenda Weeks will demonstrate a simple pattern for newcomers to the craft, and additional patterns will be provided advanced sewers.

Pre-cut fabrics will be provided, or you may bring your own, and those who do not have sewing machines can use ones at the site.

Light refreshments will be offered.

People interested in attending are asked to call EMMC oncology social worker Kerry Irish at 795-7118.

“To the wonderfully generous people of Brewer who contributed food and money to help provide lovely Christmas meals for our neighbors, the Brewer Community Service Council extends deepest appreciation,” wrote BCSC president Anne Gagnon.

“Your gifts made it possible for 76 families to enjoy the traditional holiday feast, and much more!

“Your great spirit of sharing is an inspiration to all.

“Our wish for you is that the joy you brought to others will be returned you the hundredfold in this New Year.”

Joni Averill, Bangor Daily News, P.O. Box 1329, Bangor 04402; 990-8288.