WS Dec. 30, 2022

Ian Durham

By Susan Gallagher, Staff Writer KENNEBUNK

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Ian Durham asks the big questions. His quest for answers leads him through the cosmos, in search of the origins of the universe, how it evolved, and how it behaves.

This president of the Astronomical Society of Northern New England is far more than just a casual observer of the stars. He bears the titles of physicist, mathematician, astronomer, and professor. Above all, he is a questioner.

Growing up in Buffalo, Durham was the child perpetu-

ally asking “why?” Now a Kennebunk resident and self-described “crotchety old Mainer,” he says wryly, “I never grew out of the ‘why’ stage. That’s why I am a physicist. I dig deeper.”

Surprisingly, the young

Durham had no yearning to be a scientist. Early on, his plans were set to become a theater major. Having inherited his parents’ love of theater, this seemed the obvious choice. Of course, there was always his childhood

The Star Gazer

dream of becoming a private detective to consider. “I even had a business card that read, ‘Ian Durham, Private Investigator,’” he laughs. But in his senior year of high school, an AP Chemistry class awakened in him a previously dormant interest in science.

As an undergraduate, he ended up in mechanical engineering but found himself drawn to aerospace studies. When this led to some work with contracts for NASA, Ian began to find direction. Strangely enough, it was the 1997 movie “Contact” that would determine his course.

After seeing the film, which entails a scientist’s search for proof of extraterrestrial intelligence, Durham knew what he wanted to do. “I realized that I liked figuring out problems,” he recalls.

“I wanted to solve mysteries.” The card-carrying boy detective was still alive and well inside of Ian Durham, eager to emerge and crack another baffling case. The inquisitive Durham was destined for the realm of physics, achieving a Master of Science degree in Applied Physics at Johns Hopkins University.

York River Nationally Designated “Wild and Scenic”

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Congress voted recently to designate York River into the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System. The designation authorization was included in the omnibus, government spending bill approved by Congress and signed by President Biden on December 23.

From 2015 to 2018, a local study committee comprised of town-appointed members from York, Kittery, Eliot, and South Berwick, evaluated the river for

designation into the national program and created a river management plan. All four communities voted in support of Wild and Scenic river designation and the companion York River Watershed Stewardship Plan in late 2018. Designation bills were first introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by Congresswoman Chellie Pingree in February 2019 and in the U.S. Senate by Senator Angus King and Senator Susan Collins in December 2020.

“From the start, we knew York River was worthy of pro-

tection, and we sought to build upon the care shown for the river by past and current river users,” said study committee member Karen Arsenault. Ar-

“It’s been four years since com-

OPA Offers Free Sunday Films in January

OGUNQUITOgunquit Performing Arts (OPA) announces the January schedule for its 21st Classic Film Festival, a Sunday afternoon alternative for those whose tastes run to viewing classic films.

The four January films, released between 1956 and 1964, offer a Burt Lancaster and friends “film festival.” Lancaster is joined by co-stars and supporting actors Lloyd Bridges, Kirk Douglas, David Niven, Fredric March, and actresses Katha-

rine Hepburn, Rita Hayworth, Deborah Kerr, Ava Gardner and Rhonda Fleming. The films range across genres: westerns, romance, comedy, drama, and political thrillers, set in contemporary – of those times- or popular historic contexts. Lancaster plays to type: grifter/con man, attempted political coup leader, duplicitous alcoholic philanderer, and compromised “law man” in pursuit of justice, where the ends justify the means. The portrayal of women in these

films plays to types of the times, with emerging glimpses of future women’s roles largely due to the portrayals of the powerful performances of the actresses.

The films are screened at the Dunaway Center’s community auditorium, 23 School Street, Ogunquit, Maine, Sunday afternoons at 2 p.m.

The Rainmaker (1956), Sunday, January 8

This film (pictured on left), loosely based on the real-life story of rainmaker Charles M. Hatfield, is adapted by N. Richard Nash from his 1954 play. The Rainmaker is set in drought-rid-

senault, a York resident, was part of the small group that first explored the possibility of river designation beginning in 2009.

pleting our local study that confirmed that the river was a great candidate for Wild and Scenic

Seventh Annual Kennebunk Wild Blueberry Drop

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The blueberry is back! The Seventh Annual Kennebunk Wild Blueberry Drop will be live twice this year, at 9 p.m. for the “early bird” drop, and at midnight, for the main drop, both on Saturday, December 31. Both drops will take place from the bell tower of the First Parish Unitarian Universalist Church, 114 Main St., Kennebunk. There will be no indoor activities this year, but the Waterhouse Center will be open for skating until late. Bring skates and come on down!

Founded in 2015 by volunteers from the Town of Kennebunk, the Brick Store Museum, and the First Parish

Not able to join in-person? The early-bird drop will be live-

streamed on Facebook, weather and technology permitting. The virtual event is available to everyone free of charge.

The event is hosted by the First Parish Unitarian Universalist Church, the town of Kennebunk, and Brick Store Museum.

For more information and links to the live streams, visit New Year’s Eve Kennebunk at www.nyekbk.org, the Town of Kennebunk at www.kennebunkmaine.us, First Parish Unitarian Universalist Church at www.uukennebunk.org, the Brick Store Museum at www. brickstoremuseum.org, or on Facebook at www.facebook. com/nyekbk.

. . . DURHAM from page 1

He considers himself a physicist first, before any other of his professional monikers. “I can do anything as a physicist,” he says. “Physicists are very curious people.”

It is no wonder that he is a member of the Foundational Questions Institute, an organization that supports research on the fundamental questions of physics and cosmology. Durham is not disheartened by the lack of final answers to these questions. “I try to chip away at the big questions,” he says. “I am a speck of dust in the universe. Some questions are just too big, too much for humankind to solve.”

Durham’s academic journey did not end with his master’s in physics and would bring an unexpected diversion to his path by way of Scotland. While there earning a Ph.D. in Mathematics at the University of St. Andrews, he stumbled into a teaching job and, much to his surprise, found that he liked it. “I vowed never to be a teacher,” he says emphatically. “Everyone

in my family was a teacher, so I was determined not to be.” His innate love of teaching, however, could no longer be denied.

Now a Professor and Chair of Physics at St. Anselm College, Durham strives to instill his own inquiring nature in his students. He vividly recalls two comments from former students about his class: “Physics taught me to question everything,” and “There are no free answers in Professor Durham’s class.” “When I hear these things,” Durham says with obvious satisfaction, “I know I’ve done my job.”

Despite his identity as a man of science, Ian is not without religious facets. “I am a spiritual guy,” he says in a serious tone. While he was raised Catholic and teaches at a Catholic institution, he considers himself a “Unitarian Druid.” Unitarian for 20 years now, he wears a sheepish grin when he says, “A little sliver of me is always Catholic.”

As for the Druidry, he goes on to

STARS on page 5 . . .

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Unitarian Universalist Church, this is New Year’s Eve Kennebunk (NYEKBK)’s seventh year creating a family-friendly event that brings the community together to celebrate the New Year.

Town of Kittery Updates

New Business Hours

Like many area employers, neighboring municipalities and local businesses, the Town of Kittery has been working hard to adapt to post-pandemic hiring and retention challenges. In an effort to meet those challenges, the Town of Kittery is excited to announce our new business hours. Beginning Tuesday, January 3, the Town of Kittery will observe the following schedules:

Town Hall Business Hours

Monday: 8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.; Tuesday: 8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.; Wednesday: 8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.; Thursday: 8:30 a.m. - 6 p.m.; Friday: 8:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Customer service center only on Fridays. Many town hall and customer service center related services and resources are available online.

Resource Recovery Facility

Business Hours

Monday: Closed; Tuesday: 9: a.m. - 4 p.m.; Wednesday: 9 a.m. - 4 p.m., Hazardous Waste hours are 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. on Wednesdays; Thursday: 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.; Friday: 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.; Saturday: 7:15 a.m. - 2:15 p.m.. Hazardous Waste hours are 7:15 a.m. - 2:15 p.m. on Saturdays; Sunday: Closed.

Town of Wells Update

Town Hall Closed Monday, January 2, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. in observance of New Year’s Day.

Town of York Update

York Adult Education Closed Classes to resume Tuesday, January 3. FMI: www.yorkadulteducation.org.

Friday, December 30

Overeaters Anonymous

9 a.m. at First Parish Church Hall, 180 York St., York. For those who struggle with food, weight or unwanted food behaviors. Local Overeaters Anonymous meets weekly on Fridays for fellowship and support, free of cost. FMI: www.oa.org.

Volunteer Camps 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. at Animal Welfare Society, 46 Holland Rd., Kennebunkport. Youth will experience how many helping hands it takes to keep AWS running smoothly. Tasks vary based on the Adoption Center’s daily needs, and often include cleaning animal spaces, preparing meals and visiting with dogs and cats. By participating directly with the animals, children see firsthand how they make a difference. Half Day Helpers, grades 2-5. $30. FMI: www.animalwelfaresociety.org/events.

Sunday, January 1

Chicken Shoot

2 p.m. at York Elks Lodge #278 8, 1704 Route 1, Cape Neddick. Offering chicken, steak, lobsters, and appetizers, but feel free to bring an appetizer to share as well. $10 per card. FMI: 207-361-2788 or elks2788@yahoo.com.

Sound Meditation for the New Year

2-3 p.m. at the Dance Hall Kittery, 7 Walker St., Kittery, with Peggo Horstmann Hodes. Bring a yoga mat, blankets, or pillow. FMI and to register: vibrantvoice@gmail.com or 603-496-2984.

Sunday, January 8

gational Church of Kittery Point, 23 Pepperrell Rd., Kittery. ISHRA provides information relating to the history of the Isles of Shoals. Potluck supper including chowder.

Bring something to share! Snow date is Sunday, January 15. FMI: www.eventbrite.com/e/ishra-winter-social-gathering-2023-tickets or 207-558-5760.

ISHRA Winter Social Join the Isles of Shoals Historical and Research Association (ISHRA) at their annual Winter Social Gathering at First Congre -

Berwick Public Library

Holiday Hours

Genealogy Club Returns

January 6 Genie

meet at the library the first Friday of every month, 1:30-3:30 p.m. The library has access to genealogy sites like Ancestry.com. There is also a

collection of genealogy books to use. Volunteer Laurie Jackson will be on hand to help.

Amazon Smile

Supports the Library

Visit www.smile.amazon.com to choose the Berwick Library Association as a favorite charity.

Amazon will donate 0.5% of purchase totals to the library.

Winter Coat Drive

During library business hours,

drop off new or gently worn, clean winter coats through mid-January. Women’s and children’s coats preferred, and hats and gloves are welcome.

For More Information

Call the library at 207-698-5737 or visit contact the library at www. berwick.lib.me.us.

D.A. Hurd Library Holiday Hours

The library is closed on Monday, January 2, in observance of New Year’s Day.

For More Information Call the library at 207-676-2215 or visit www.dahurdlibrary.org.

Ogunquit Memorial Library Holiday Hours

The library will be closed New Year’s Eve, Saturday, December 31. The library will be also closed on Mondays through May 2023.

January Book Club

Tuesday, January 17, 11 a.m.-12 p.m. The Book Club will be discussing “Crossroads,” by Jonathan Franzen. Copies for borrowing are available at the library. Please RSVP if attending.

For More Information

Call the library at 207-646-9024 or visit www.ogunquitlibrary.com.

Wells Public Library

Fiber Arts

Friday, December 30 at 10:30 a.m. Been crafting during the past few months? Join over Zoom to show off knitting creations, get tips on crochet techniques, chat with old friends, and make some

new ones. All ages and levels of ability are encouraged. FMI and the Zoom link: Stefanie Claydon at sclaydon@wellstown.org or 207-646-8181.

Fiction Book Club

Tuesday, January 3 at 6 p.m. The Fiction Book Club is a new book group that will meet on the fi rst Tuesday of every month, open to all adults. Chat about books, share favorite book/s/authors, and discover new favorites. January’s read features “Arsenic and Adobo,” by Mia P. Manansala. Meetings will be held in the Community Room.

Efficiency Maine Thursday, January 5 at 1:30 p.m. Efficiency Maine is a public benefi ts fund that provides rebates on weatherization, efficiency heating, and the purchase of electric vehicles. Talk will cover rebates and financing programs offered, with a focus on heat pumps and heat pump water heaters for a more fuel-efficient household. Audience questions encouraged.

Random Fandom: Wellness Lab Wednesday, January 11 at 1:15 p.m. Capture your inner Zen master through yoga, mandala coloring, and a mantra Morse code bracelet. Snacks will be provided. For students in grade 5 and up. Free, sponsored by the Friends of the Wells Public Library.

Teen Game Tournament: GimKit Live Wednesday, January 18 at 1:15 p.m. Kahoot meets Among Us meets other RPG. Fun trivia games. Bring your own device- a Chromebook or phone will work perfectly! (Of COURSE there are prizes!) Prizes and snacks provided. For students in grade 5 and up. Free, sponsored by the Friends of the Wells Public Library.

Conversational French Thursdays at 6:30 p.m. An infor-

mal approach to practicing or relearning French in person! Anyone with a French language interest can participate. Free, sponsored by the Friends of the Library.

For More Information

Call the library at 207-646-8181 or visit www.wellslibrary.org.

William Fogg Library

Holiday Hours

The library will be closed Saturday, December 31 for New Year’s Eve.

For More Information

Call the library at 207-439-9437 or visit www.williamfogglibrary.org.

York Public Library

A Matter of Balance

Wednesdays and Fridays, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. In partnership with Southern Maine Agency on Aging, a nationally recognized program designed to help reduce fall risks, exercise to increase strength and balance, and learn selfadvocacy for independence. This is a discussion-based class with the goal of learning from fellow participants. FMI: 207-396-6578 or www.smaaa.org.

Baby and Toddler Time Wednesdays, 10:30-11:30 a.m. in the children’s story-time area. Stories, songs, rhymes and lap bounces. For babies and toddlers and their caregivers. Please register to guarantee a spot and to receive a reminder email. Drop-ins welcome as space is available.

Conversational Italian Tuesdays, 6:30-8 p.m. in the Wheeler Room. Parliamo Italiano! The library is pleased to resume the group for casual conversation in Italian. Suitable for those with intermediate to advanced conversational skills in the Italian language.

For More Information

Call the library at 207-363-2818 or visit www.yorkpubliclibrary.org.

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say, “I also love exploring other religions and spiritualities.”

To this end, he has traveled to India to work with Tibetan monks and study Buddhism. In 2018 and 2019, he took part in the Science for Monks program initiated by the Dalai Lama to connect Buddhism and science. At the Library of Tibetan Works and Archives, Durham shared with the monks his knowledge of quantum mechanics, and they, in turn, taught him about Buddhism.

Behind Ian Durham’s professorial exterior and formidable intellect dwells his more fallible persona. He describes himself as having “innate Charlie Brown qualities.” Clarifying this, he adds, “absent-minded, a bit cluttered and perhaps a bit accident-prone.” Like Charlie, he is ever hopeful that Lucy will have changed, and won’t pull the football away as he is about to kick it. Deep down, however, he does not really expect a positive outcome. “I am an odd person,” he admits, “I am hopeful but also cynical.”

It is his hopeful side that he brings to the Astronomical Society of Northern New England. Of the organization he says simply, “We are just people who love the stars.” A member for the last 21 years, he is now

both president and treasurer. Durham stresses that the society is not only for scientists like himself, but for anyone drawn by the allure of the night sky and its myriad stars.

ASNNE is unique among astronomical societies in that it operates its own observatory.

Opened in 2001, the Starfield Observatory in Kennebunk is crowned with an unusual rolloff roof that allows a panoramic view of the night sky. Here, monthly star parties are held where all are welcome to view the heavens and learn more about the universe they inhabit. Two powerful telescopes enable participants to view planets, galaxies, constellations, nebulae and star clusters. Astrophotography is often included, offering

the chance to forever preserve the celestial beauty.

In addition to hosting star parties, the society meets monthly at the New School in Kennebunk, where speakers share their astronomical knowledge with a rapt audience. Durham is humble about his expertise: “We just love looking at the stars and teaching other people about them.”

Incredibly, the busy professor manages to find spare time to take a break from his erudite pursuits. Whenever possible, he escapes to the great outdoors, where he enjoys fly fishing, hiking and canoeing. Here, the only questions he needs to ponder are the small ones.

As to the origins of the universe, Durham states that the

January Astronomy Club Meeting

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The Astronomical Society of Northern New England (ASNNE) will hold its monthly meeting on Friday, January 6 at 7:30 p.m. at the New School, 38 York Street, Kennebunk. The business meeting, also open to the public, commences at 7 p.m.

The January meeting agenda includes: Bernie Reim’s

Big Bang Theory was proven 60 years ago, but, true to form, he digs deeper. “What caused the Big Bang Theory?” he asks. “It couldn’t have come from nothing.” Perhaps the answers lie beyond the stars, but Ian will keep an eye to the sky, and keep on searching.

“What’s Up for the Month,” and the ever-popular “Astro Shorts,” where attendees and members share questions, activities, news and observations. Astro Shorts meetings always give way to lively and informative discussions.

ASNNE is a local association of amateur astronomers that meets at the New School on the first Friday of each month. Those interested in astronomy are welcome, from stargazers and hobbyists, to serious observers and astrophotographers, and those interested in astronomical theory. ASNNE also hosts Star Parties at the Talmage Observatory at Starfield, Route 35, West Kennebunk. For more information, visit www.asnne.org.

Marshwood Musicians Team Up for Project

which is inspired by the true story of the artist unknowingly using a “used” wedding band when he got married. The ring was awkwardly discovered to match his aunt’s ring perfectly at a casual family dinner, just weeks after the wedding. Also seated at the table was a ringless uncle, who, decades earlier, lost the ring in the same field in which it was found. “Oh Jen!” is written from the perspective of Uncle Ed and features a bridge from the artist’s perspective, when he explains to his wife that he has decided to give his wedding ring back to his uncle.

The track features a shimmering alto sax solo by Dave Miller, a retired Marshwood concert band teacher and southern Maine-based, multi-instrumentalist. Miller was Kareckas’ middle school band conductor and taught him trumpet beginning in fourth grade. Kareckas ventured back from Vermont to his old home to reunite with Miller for the project.

Kareckas is a singer, songwriter, and producer, originally from South Berwick. A 2008 Marshwood graduate, he now lives in Vermont with his wife and newborn daughter.

“It was such an honor and treat to reconnect with Dave for this record,” said Kareckas. “Mr. Miller can be credited for why so much incredible music continues

to pump out of the Marshwood community. Even in retirement, he still makes time to be the maestro.”

The EP plays out with a number of cover songs that Kareckas has recorded over the years in home studios across the Green Mountain State. For more information visit www.kevinkareckas.com.

Chorus Rehearsals Begin

SOUTH BERWICKCommunity Chorus at South Berwick begins rehearsals for their spring concert on Monday, January 9 at First Federated Parish Church, 150 Main St., South Berwick. Under the direction of Dr. Nicolas Dosman, the chorus will be preparing pieces for their spring concerts on Saturday, April 1 and Sunday, April 2. The musical selections include pieces by Whitacre, Walker, and Shaw, reflecting the concert theme, “Love is in the Air.” New singers are always welcome to join. For more information, visit www.ccsb-sing.org.

SOUTH BERWICKVermont musician Kevin Kareckas released an EP single

on streaming platforms this past December, featuring retired Marshwood High School band

teacher, Dave Miller, on saxophone. The EP features the title

Top photo: Kevin Kareckas by Colby Nixon, D.O. Lower photo: Dave Miller in 2018, with students from Marshwood Middle School. Courtesy www.facebook.com/marshwoodschools.

den Kansas during the Depression. A grifter/con man (Lancaster) promises to make rain for $100. The price is accepted by a local rancher, whose daughter (Katharine Hepburn) remains unmarried and considers herself “plain.” Belief in herself that she is beautiful and belief that rain will come, results in a somewhat surprising ending.

Seven Days in May (1964), Sunday, January 15

This film, based on the political thriller novel of the same name by authors Fletcher Knebel and Charles W. Bailey II, is set in the U.S. at the height of the Cold War/Communist threat. The Chair of the Joint Chiefs of Staff (Lancaster) hatches a plot for a military coup against the President (Fredric March) because the President has signed a nuclear disarmament treaty and the Generals fear a sneak Soviet attack. It is enlightening to view the film, or to read the book, in the context of the world order of today.

Separate Tables (1958), Sunday, January 22

This film, based on two one-act plays by Terence Rattigan, is set in Bournemouth, England, at the Beauregard Hotel during the off-season. Evocative of a “comedy of manners,” the secrets of several of the guests are exposed, setting off a cascade of events, both comedic and dramatic. Revelations result in a shifting of relationships and con-

~ Arts & Entertainment ~ Anniversary Comic for President

George H. W. Bush

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TidalWave Comics is honored to announce the addition of President George H. W. Bush comic books to its popular “Political Power” series, focused on political figures around the world.

“Political Power: George H. W.

sequences which will surprise, challenge, and inspire viewers.

The cast includes Lancaster, Deborah Kerr, Rita Hayworth, David Niven, Wendy Hiller, and Gladys Cooper.

Gunfight at the O.K. Corral (1957) Sunday, January 29

This film was loosely based on a 30-second shootout between a lawman and a group of outlaws, which occurred in 1881.

The screenplay by Leon Uris was adapted from a 1954 article in Holiday Magazine, entitled “The Killer,” by George Skillin. The unlikely alliance between Wyatt Earp and Doc Holliday is portrayed with gusto by frequent film partners Lancaster and Kirk Douglas. Viewers will find everything western drama offers: love found and lost, pursuit of justice against the odds, secret female gamblers, gunfights, and horse chases.

The Sunday afternoon series is a great opportunity for fellowship with friends and family, and provides an antidote to winter’s cabin fever malaise. Admission, parking, and popcorn are free. For more information, visit www.ogunquitperformingarts.org.

Bush” was released in time to honor the anniversary of his passing on November 30.

TidalWave has profiled politicians for more than eleven years using the unique storytelling properties of comic books. The latest biography comic book joins the library of more than 200 profiles, including presidents Joe Biden, Donald Trump, Barack Obama, George W. Bush, Bill Clinton, Ronald Reagan, Jimmy Carter, and Richard Nixon.

“Political Power: George

H. W. Bush” is written by Curtis Lawson and Michael Frizell, and illustrated by Martin Gimenez. A collectible hardcover and a paperback version are available, with a cover by famed comic book artist Pablo Martinena.

This is the story of George H. W. Bush, the 41st President of the United States. Overshadowed by the titanic personalities of his predecessor, his successor and his own son, TidalWave Comics

See COMIC on page 18 . . .

Barred Owls at the Center for Wildlife this Season

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Barred owls in the backyard, or sadly on the roadsides? Each fall and winter, Center for Wildlife typically admits dozens of juvenile red tailed hawks, barred owls, screech owls, saw whet owls, turkey vultures and other species of raptor. Raptors on average have an 85% mortality rate, a part of natural selection that ensures the fittest animals survive to pass on their genes.

“Getting the hang of hunting on your own when many prey species are hibernating or have migrated is not easy, and when you couple that with habitats fragmented by cars and development, or competing with adults who have claimed the best winter hunting habitats as their own, it is a wonder that any of them survive,” shares Shelley Spanswick, medical clinic and operations director at Center for Wildlife.

Some years, the center sees a spike in the admissions of barred owls in particular. While community members usually bring 15-20 barred owls hit by cars to the wildlife clinic, during a “boom” year up to 60 injured or diseased barred owls can be admitted in just a few months. This trend is hypothesized to be part of the “boom and bust” cycle of oak trees and small mammals. When small mammals are plentiful, more owlets have a chance of making it to fledging stage, and thus more owls are out on the landscape

Safe Haven Humane Society

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Fennel (l) and Sage (r), two delightful half-year-old siblings are ready for adoption and are waiting to begin the new year with a family and home of their very own.

These adorable kittens are full of energy. They seek attention by waiting at the door! They like nothing more than being played with, given a treat, getting a brushing, or a tickle behind the ears. They are both totally ready for a forever home, have all their medical needs completed, are socially advanced and rather confident

for their age.

Sage is the handsome brother, with a white muzzle on his tiger face and a white bib and boots. Lovely Fennel has striking tiger markings. They love one another and are tightly bonded. The pair excel at cat wand chasing, catnip rabbit kick sessions, and are a marvel to behold when chasing a laser toy.

When tired, the duo love sleeping intertwined, purring blissfully as they snooze. Yes, they have a happy life here at Safe Haven, but they deserve the very best life, with a cat-loving family in their forever home.

Fennel and Sage will enjoy playing, enjoying the fun of family life, and being cherished as full family members. To find out more about the pair, why not visit them at our Safe Haven Shop at Cattail Farm, or call Nancy, our Farmhouse

Manager, at the number listed below. Adoption applications can be filled out online at www. safehavenhumanesociety.org or in-person.

Safe Haven is looking for experienced cat-care volunteers. Volunteers need to be able to medicate felines, and to keep accurate records of basic medical charts for others to follow. Training is available. For organized people, or those with any medical background, this might be an ideal volunteer position!

If volunteers can contribute a couple of times a week for an hour or two, we could definitely use the help!

and sadly hunting by roadsides. When food and trash are in the road, small mammals are attracted to the road, and young owls see this as a place to find food that is free of snow cover.

This year, the center has admitted and treated 32 barred owls since September alone, and it is shaping up to be a boom year. Most of these owls have been hit by cars, and have suffered head and eye trauma, along with fractures. These owls are tested for lead and rodenticides to rule out underlying toxicity poisoning, and are given specialized care and medication along with large flight enclosures to recover from their injuries and return to the wild. The positive note?

“Admitting this many owls and all of the other patients means that community members are tuned into nature, and cannot just let an animal lay wounded on the road. In a time of tension and strife in the human world, every person that calls or brings us an animal lets us know that in our community, empathy is indeed alive and well,” reflects Executive Director Kristen Lamb.

To learn more about Center for Wildlife and how you can support their mission this holiday season, visit www.thecenterforwildlife.org. Photo to left: Medical Clinic and Operations Director Shelley Spanswick returns a healed barred owl back to the wild recently.

Sadly, our Shelter Cat Manager Leonore is retiring, and we need someone to keep our feline friends medicated in a timely way once she leaves. Leonore will train those interested. Also retiring is our tax accountant of many years. We do need a new tax accountant for yearly filing and to provide financial counsel as needed.

We are also looking for a roofing contractor. Our barn roof at 1784 Post Rd. is huge and needs to be replaced, a very costly expense. We are taking estimates now for the work; local roofing contractors, please consider putting in a bid.

Emma’s Angels Rescue

NORTH BERWICKMeet this sweet senior Texas girl, Dolly Pawton! Dolly is a 9-year-old Chug, a Chihuahua/Pug mix, who is sweet and happy. Dolly is spayed and up to date on her vaccinations. If you would like to meet this cutie, call us at the number below.

drives will be thoroughly cleaned to a DoD level. All donations are tax deductible.

Know a veteran in need of a computer?

Contact Mark Grimshaw at 603-734-2340 or computers4vets@comcast.net and visit www.computers4vets.org.

Emma’s Angels Rescue is an all-volunteer, foster-based organization located in North Berwick. Needed at this time: wee wee pads! We rescue many small senior dogs and they are used constantly. Donations can be left in our drop box at 30 Meeting House Road in North Berwick.

We would like to take this opportunity to thank all of our wonderful volunteers and supporters for their dedication and hard work hers at Emma’s Angels. Happy New Year!

Emma’s Angels Rescue

30 Meeting House Road North Berwick, ME 03906 207-676-5599 axel1759@aol.com www.petfinder.com/member/ us/me/north-berwick/ emmas-angels-rescue-me

The Most Popular Ethnic Cuisines

STATEWIDE -

The United States is often described as a melting pot because it is home to generations from many countries, nationalities, and backgrounds. That diversity is worn as a badge of honor for many who live and cook the United States, and is one that foodies in particular may be especially appreciative of. Most every type of ethnic cuisine imaginable is available just about everywhere throughout the United States, especially in its larger cities, where whole neighborhoods have developed around specific immigrant nationalities. A recent analysis of search data by the international food website Chef’s Pencil, found the following foods especially popular among diners:

1. Chinese. Chinese food is the most searched for cuisine on the internet. Chinese food is especially popular in the northeastern United States, and New Jersey in particular. Residents of Delaware, New York and Connecticut also are enamored with Chinese food. New York City and San Francisco, CA in particular have vibrant Chinatown neighborhoods, where authentic Chinese, Japanese and even Korean foods are plentiful and easy to find.

2. Mexican. Although the U.S. and Mexico share a border, Mexican food did not catch on in the United States until starting around 1910, almost 60 years after the US acquired the then independent republic of Texas from Mexico in the Mexican-American war. Mexican cuisine is now the second most popular food in the U.S., based on current trends data. That popularity might be why 11% of restaurants in the United States are indeed Mexican restaurants.

3. Italian. Italian cuisine rounds out the top three. Residents of New Jersey and New York find Italian cuisine especially hard to resist, an understandable preference given the number of Italian neighborhoods and generations of families in those regions. Surprisingly, though, this beloved ethnic cuisine is also wildly popular in many other parts of the United States, especially Tampa, FL, and San Diego, CA.

4. Thai. If the popularity of Chinese, Mexican and Italian food does not raise an eyebrow, the fourth most popular ethnic cuisine just might. Thai food does not have as lengthy a relationship with American diners as the top three styles of cuisine on this list, having not taken off until the early 2000s. But the popularity of Thai food is undeniable. Authentic Thai food tends to be lighter than Chinese, Mexican and Italian foods, and its health benefits are not lost on

the general public. Traditional Thai cuisine is quite healthy and largely based on vegetables, lean proteins, and fresh herbs and spices. Readers may be surprised to learn that Thai food is most popular in Alaska.

5. Indian. The popularity of Indian food is a testament to the allure of spice. Though it is the fifth most popular ethnic cuisine in the United States, Indian food is wildly popular on both coasts. In fact, internet trend data indicates its highest popularity scores are in New Jersey and Washington state.

It is worth noting that these delicious ethnic cuisines are not only popular in the United States. Canadians also favor many of the same ethnic cuisines that their southern neighbors enjoy. According to Chef’s Pencil, Chinese food is the most popular ethnic cuisine in Canada, followed by Italian, Thai, Indian and Mexican in that order.

Article content provided by MetroCreative, via Chef’s Pencil, www.chefspencil.com. The Weekly Sentinel does not endorse any products or services suggested by articles from MetroCreative.

Healthy Herbs and Spices for a Healthy New Year

STATEWIDE -

With a new year comes the requisite resolutions, which will most likely include incorporating a healthier diet and exercise. A nutritious diet is a key component of a healthy lifestyle, and when paired with regular physical activity, can help dramatically reduce their risk for various diseases, including heart disease.

According to the World Health Organization, Ischemic heart disease and stroke claim more lives each year than any other disease, annually accounting for roughly 15% of all deaths across the globe. Many deaths caused by heart disease can be prevented, and eating a healthy diet is a great preventive measure that anyone can take.

Though some people may associate healthy diets with bland foods that lack flavor, people can incorporate various heart-healthy herbs and spices into their favorite dishes to make them more nutritious and flavorful:

Garlic

Garlic has long since earned its place on the kitchen spice rack. However, botanically, garlic is neither an herb or a spice, but a vegetable. Regardless of how it’s classified, garlic is loaded with flavor and can be used to improve just about any recipe, all the while benefitting heart health. The United Statesbased health services provider Mercy Health notes that garlic

can help lower blood pressure and reduce bad cholesterol levels.

Cayenne Pepper

Few ingredients may change a recipe as quickly as cayenne pepper. The addition of cayenne pepper can instantly make dishes more spicy. But cayenne pepper brings more than a little extra kick to the dinner table. Healthline notes that various studies have shown that capsaicin, the active ingredient in cayenne pepper, can provide a host of health benefits. One such study published in the British Journal of Nutrition found that adding capsaicin to a high-carbohydrate breakfast significantly reduced hunger

If

People and Business Profiles

New Board Members at OMAA

OGUNQUIT -

The Ogunquit Museum of American Art (OMAA) has added three new members to its 2023 board of directors. The new members of the board are Cynthia Fenneman, Philip Morgan, and John Shapiro. The museum has also made a change to its executive committee, naming Karyn S. Morin of Partners Bank as the new Treasurer.

“We are grateful to have Cynthia, Philip, and John join us as we steer the museum into its next phase,” said Amanda Lahikainen, PhD, Executive Director of Ogunquit Museum of American Art. “They bring a diverse set of leadership skills that will complement the talent of the other members of the board of directors. We have already experienced the collective energy that these individuals will add to our exciting 2023 season.”

Cynthia Fenneman was formerly the CEO of American Public Television, one of the nation’s leading producers for top-rated public television shows, including “America’s Test Kitchen,” “Jacques Pepin,” “Biz Kid$,” Roadtrip Nation,” “Doc Martin,” and “Midsomer Murders.” Cynthia is a Board Member of the York Harbor Reading Room, the Chair of Strawberry Banke’s Board of Trustees, and was most recently the chair of the Museum’s National Council, an advisory body to Strawbery Banke.

Philip Morgan, nicknamed “Flip,” is the retired former President and CEO of Morgan Construction Company in Worcester, MA, designers and manufacturers of rolling mill equipment for the worldwide metals industries. Morgan Construction was started by Flip’s great-great grandfather in 1888. Flip ran the company from 1986 until it was sold to Siemens Metals in 2008. Flip retired from Siemens in 2010. Flip has extensive not-for-profit Board experience, including serving as trustee at Worcester Polytechnic Institute in MA; Fay School in Southborough, MA; Mass Biomedical Initiative in Worcester; and The Worcester Regional Research Bureau. Locally, in Maine, Flip has served as a trustee for the York Historical Society and York Hospital, and is currently serving on the Board at the Ogunquit Playhouse. Flip is a graduate of Harvard College and Harvard Business School.

John Shapiro has more than 35 years experience in the banking and energy industries. Most recently in July 2021, John was appointed to the board of directors for Sprague Resources.

Since November 2009, John has served as a director on board of Blueknight Energy Partners, L.P., a master limited partnership headquartered in Tulsa, OK. Since November 2015, John has served as a senior advisor to Mountain Capital Partners, LLC, a Houston-based private equity firm focused on upstream E&P investments. John was an officer at Morgan Stanley & Co., where he served from November 1984 to December 2008 in various capacities, ultimately as Global Head of Commodities and a member of the firm’s Management Committee. Prior to Morgan Stanley, John worked for Conoco, Inc. and New England Merchants National Bank.

John received his Master of Business Administration from Harvard University and a bachelor’s degree in economics from Princeton University.

Opened in 1953, OMAA was founded by Lost Generation artist Henry Strater. Closely

WELLS -

Wells Welcomes New Town Manager

This past August, the Board of Selectmen of Wells unanimously appointed Michael W. Pardue as Town Manager. His first day in office was November 14.

Pardue has a wide-ranging management and operations background that spans nearly 40 years. His public-sector management experience includes serving as a Municipal Manager, Municipal Administrator, Director of Public Safety, Chief of Police, Fire Chief, Director of Public Services and Director of Human Resources in a variety of New England communities. Pardue is recognized in both public and corporate environments across the country for his innovative and contemporary approach to leadership, organizational management and strategic planning.

In addition to his wideranging experience in the public sector, Pardue offers an extensive private sector management and operations background as well. He has served as Vice President of Operations for the Atlas Group, a worldwide telecom -

munications corporation where he was directly responsible for managing project performance on a global platform, ensuring adherence to quality standards, while meeting contractual obligations. Further, he managed Atlas Group’s Global-consulting staff, responsible for the recruitment, staffing and development of personnel on a worldwide basis.

In addition to his affiliation with numerous professional organizations, Pardue has served as Chair of the Board of Directors for Northeast Delta Dental (NEDD) of Maine. While a member of the NEDD Board, he held office on the Executive

Board and served on the corporation’s Finance, Corporate Governance and Long-Range Planning Committees. Mr. Pardue served three terms on the NEDD Board; the maximum allowed by corporation by-laws.

Pardue holds a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice Administration, numerous management and leadership certifications and is a graduate of the Babson College Command Institute. His continuing education includes studies at Harvard University’s School of Business.

Pardue consults and presents nationally on the topics of organizational leadership, accountability and workforce culture, transforming workplace cultures, preventing workplace harassment, strategic cutback management and public safety directorship.

Mike enjoys a variety of outdoor sports and greatly values time with family. Mike and his wife Karen reside in Kennebunk, and have three grown children and five grandchildren.

For more information, visit www.wellstown.org/1042/meetthe-town-manager.

Conservation Leader Beiter Finishes Master’s Studies

WELLSWells resident Caryn Beiter has been applying the tools of science, education, and conservation to become a leader in the conservation community. This December, Beiter concluded a master’s course of study with a Master of Arts in biology from Miami University in Oxford, OH, through Project

tied to one of the earliest art colonies of the American modernist art movement, OMAA today houses a permanent collection of paintings, sculpture, drawings, prints, and photographs from the late 1800s to the present. The museum showcases American art by mounting seasonal modern and contemporary exhibition programs from May through October. OMAA’s three-acre sculpture park contains 18 small gardens, complementing its exhibitions and overlooking Narrow Cove and the Atlantic Ocean. The museum is open May 1 through October 31. For more information visit www. ogunquitmuseum.org.

Dragonfly.

Since joining the Global Field Program (GFP) master’s in 2020, Beiter has traveled to Namibia and the Amazon, and conducted projects that have made a difference in the Wells area – she works as an education program coordinator at Wells National Estuarine Research Reserve.

Throughout Beiter’s time in the GFP, she developed a master plan – a kind of personal mission statement for what she wanted to accomplish in the program. In many of Beiter’s master’s courses, she designed projects that supported this plan, culminating in a final portfolio, “Cultivating Ecological Learning and Sense of Place through Phenology,” which was presented in a Capstone course.

The GFP master’s degree and Earth Expeditions courses are designed for educators and other professionals from all disciplines and settings interested in making a difference in human and ecological communities. Because the GFP combines summer field courses

worldwide with online learning communities, this master’s degree can be completed parttime from anywhere.

For more information, visit www.miamioh.edu/cas/graduate-studies/project-dragonfly/ global-field-program/index. html, www.facebook.com/ prjdragonfly, and www.wellsreserve.org/about-us/people/ caryn-beiter. Photo above from www.wellsreserve.org/blog/ extending-science-education-tohearing-impaired-students.

To to bottom: Cynthia Fenneman, Philip “Flip” Morgan, John Shapiro.

STATEWIDE -

Effective January 1, 2023, the state minimum wage will increase from $12.75 to $13.80 per hour, based on data recently made available by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics. Maine law, amended by citizen’s referendum in 2016, requires annual adjustments to the minimum wage based on the cost-of-

living index (CPI-W) for the Northeast Region.

In addition to the minimum wage, the new “tip wage,” or service employee minimum wage, in 2023 will be $6.90 per hour. This means that service employees must receive at least a direct cash wage of $6.90 per hour from the employer. The employer must be able to show that the employee receives at least the minimum wage of

Second Round for Forest Recovery

STATEWIDE -

Grants totaling $14 million have been recently awarded to 19 Maine forestry companies, in the final round of the Forest Recovery Initiative of the Maine Jobs & Recovery Plan.

The Forest Recovery Initiative aimed to support Maine’s forest products industry and the people it employs. The funds support jobs in rural Maine, and strengthen the state’s economy. The first round of awards provided financial relief to 219 forest products industry businesses that experienced negative impacts from the pandemic, and help them sustain the viability of their business.

Awards made through the second and final round of the program will support forwardlooking industry projects that address new market demands, provide new sustainable products, or otherwise advance the long-term stability of the forestry industry.

“Maine’s forest products industry is not only a key part of our state’s heritage, but also a cornerstone of our economic future. These grant awards will help Maine forestry companies on the cutting edge compete on the world stage,” said the governor. “My administration will continue to work to ensure that our forest products sector remains strong for the years to come.”

“The Forest Recovery Initiative has already helped hundreds of Maine forestry businesses navigate the lasting impacts of the pandemic. The administration is investing directly in the future of the sector and new uses for Maine wood fiber,” said Commissioner Amanda Beal of the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry, and Commissioner Heather Johnson of the Department of Economic and Community Development.

The program is one of three initiatives of the Jobs Plan that supports the recovery of Maine’s heritage industries – forestry, fishing and farming – from impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. To date, the plan has awarded approximately $41 million in recovery funds to 392 businesses in these heritage sectors across all 16 counties in Maine.

The Forest Recovery Initiative is administered by the Maine Technology Institute, which accepted applications for the program in September and October of 2022. 62 applications were received prior to the deadline seeking $77 million in funding. After reviewing and scoring the proposals in a competitive process, 19 projects were awarded funding. The awards span projects across ten counties, from York to Aroostook; the funding will leverage more than $625 million in private sector matching funds, a 44:1 ratio of private to public funding.

The Maine Jobs & Recovery Plan invests nearly $1 billion in Federal American Rescue

$13.80 per hour when the direct wage and tips are combined at the end of the week.

The minimum salary threshold for exempting a worker from overtime pay is also based on the minimum wage. Starting January 1, 2023, the new minimum salary threshold is $796.17 per week, or $41,401 per year. This is only one of the factors used in determining whether a worker is exempt from overtime pay under federal or state law. An individual can earn more than the minimum salary threshold and still be eligible for overtime. The duties of each worker must be considered as part of this analysis.

Interpretive GuidanceVacation Payout

Beginning January 1, 2023, all unused paid vacation time that had accrued must be paid to the employee on their next regularly scheduled pay day after employment ends. This law does not apply to employers with less than 11 employees or a public employer. If employees are covered by a collective bargaining agreement that addresses payment of vacation pay at the end of employment, the collective bargaining agreement will determine if the unused accrued vacation pay is paid out at the end of employment.

This law change raised several interpretive questions about how the amended law interacts with Maine’s existing earned paid leave law. To assist employers and employees, the Maine Department of Labor published interpretive guidance addressing the interaction of the laws for vacation payout upon cessation of employment and earned paid leave.

Other General Reminders

Earned Paid Leave - An employer that employs more

than 10 employees in the usual and regular course of business for more than 120 days in any calendar year shall permit each employee to earn paid leave based on the employee’s base pay. An employee is entitled to earn one hour of paid leave from a single employer for every 40 hours worked, up to 40 hours in one year of employment. Accrual of leave begins at the start of employment, but the employer is not required to permit use of the leave before the employee has been employed by that employer for 120 days during a oneyear period.

Time of Payment - Employees must be paid in full at least every 16 days. Employees must be notified of any decrease in wages or salary at least one day prior to the change.

Payment of Wages - Employees who leave a job must be paid in full on the next payday

or within two weeks, whichever is earlier. This may include the payment of all unused paid vacation accrued after January 1, 2023. This will also include all accrued Earned Paid Leave if established in company policy or in practice.

Unfair Agreement - Employers cannot require that an employee pay for losses such as broken merchandise, bad checks, or bills not paid by customers, nor for special uniforms and certain tools of the trade.

Rest Breaks - Most employees must be offered a 30 consecutive minute paid or unpaid rest break after 6 hours of work.

For more information on the new laws going into effect, visit www.maine.gov/labor/ posters, call 207-623-7900 or email bls.mdol@maine.gov.

Ham Insurance Agency

STATEWIDE -

The New Year represents a fresh start, and is the perfect time to invest in one’s health. However, many may be unsure what resolutions will have the biggest impact. Doctors say that the easy, tangible actions you take are some of the most important.

“Many people kick off the start of each new year with big-picture health resolutions,” says Jack Resneck, Jr., M.D., president of the American

Medical Association (AMA).

“The good news is that small, positive health choices made right now can have long-lasting effects.”

Want to get started today?

Here are the ten resolutions the AMA recommends this year:

1. Exercise is essential for physical and mental health, so get moving today. A good rule of thumb for adults is at least 150 minutes a week of moderateintensity activity, or 75 minutes a week of vigorous-intensity ac-

tivity.

2. Vaccination is the best protection against a number of serious illnesses. To protect oneself, family, friends and coworkers, get up-to-date on vaccines, including the annual flu shot and the COVID-19 boosters. Your doctor can let you know if you’re due for a COVID booster. If you have questions, speak with your physician and review trusted resources, including getvaccineanswers.org.

3. Get screened. Estimates based on statistical models show that since April 2020, millions of screenings for breast, colorectal, and prostate cancer diagnoses may have been missed due to pandemic-related care disruptions. Check in with a trusted physician, and when due for preventive care, tests or screenings, make an appointment. These measures are designed to keep everybody healthy, and help doctors spot certain conditions before they become more serious.

4. High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, can increase the risk of heart attack or stroke, and affects millions of Americans. Visit ManageYourBP.org to understand what blood pressure numbers mean and what to do to get blood pressure under control.

5. One in 3 American adults has prediabetes, a condition that can lead to type 2 diabetes if left unmanaged. However, there are steps you can take that can help delay or even prevent the onset of

type 2 diabetes. Learn your risk by taking a simple 2-minute selfscreening test at DoIHavePrediabetes.org. This resource also features helpful lifestyle tips that can help you reverse prediabetes.

6. Whenever possible, drink water instead of sugarsweetened beverages and replace processed foods – especially those with added sodium and sugar – with nutritious, whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, herbs and spices.

7. If consuming alcohol, drink only in moderation. The U.S. Dietary Guidelines for Americans defines that as up to one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men, and only by adults of legal drinking age.

8. Speak with your doctor or health care professional about quitting tobacco and nicotine use. Declare your home and car smokefree to eliminate secondhand smoke exposure.

9. Follow your doctor’s instructions when taking prescrip-

tion drugs – especially opioids. Always store and dispose of these medications safely to prevent misuse. Whenever prescribed antibiotics, take them exactly as directed. Not taking the full course can lead to antibiotic resistance, a serious public health problem, and will not make you feel better if you have a virus, such as a cold or flu.

10. Invest in your mental health by managing stress, getting sufficient sleep, exercising and seeking help from a mental health professional when you need it.

If you don’t have health insurance, the AMA encourages you to sign up for coverage at www.healthcare.gov, which has new, affordable options. The enrollment deadline for 2023 coverage is January 15, 2023. Find more health resources at ama-assn.org. For a healthy 2023 and beyond, invest in your wellness with these doctor-recommended New Year’s resolutions.

KENNEBUNK -

The 22nd Annual Atlantic Plunge, “Freezin’ for a Reason,” will take place at 11 a.m. on Sunday, January 1, 2023, at Gooch’s Beach in Kennebunk. The plunge is one of Caring Unlimited’s major annual fundraisers. All money raised through registration, pledges, and donations, helps to sustain Caring Unlimited’s programs and services.

What better way to ring in the New Year than an icy swim in the ocean? There is a $25 registration fee to participate in the polar plunge. Online registration closed at midnight on Thursday, December 29, but in-person registration will be available the day of the event.

Arrive at 10:30 a.m. to register and/or check in, and to enjoy some refreshments. Shirts and towels will be available for purchase online with registration, or at the event.

All money raised through registration, pledges, and donations helps support Caring Unlimited’s programs and services throughout the year. The Atlantic Plunge helps ensure Caring Unlimited continues to provide critical, roundthe-clock support and safety planning to family members, friends, and neighbors experiencing abuse in York County.

Raffle Prizes and Levels

Win tickets based on total pledges on the day of the plunge, and put them towards any of ten prizes donated by local businesses. More prizes to be announced the day of the event. For example: $150$249 receives one entry; $250$499, two entries; $500-$749, three entries; $750-$999, four entries; $1,000 and up, five entries. Pledges can be collected in person (cash or check), and turned in at the event, or can be collected securely online by creating a personalized fundraising page upon registration you register.

This year’s sponsors include: Lead event sponsor Saco & Biddeford Savings; Glacial sponsors, Partners Bank, P & C Insurance, Coldwell Banker, Maine Community Bank, Ducas Construction,

Pack Maynard; Frosty sponsors, Prescott, Jamieson & Murphy Law Group, Holmes Legal Group, Bangor Savings Bank, Norway Savings Bank, Kennebunk Beach Realty, Seaport Development Group, Smilecraft Dental; Chill sponsors, Southern Maine Health Care, Atlantic Federal Credit Union, Southern Maine Agency on Aging; Wellness for Women, Peoples Choice Credit Union, Kennebunk Portside Rotary, Great East Dental Associates, J&M Unique Lighting and Design, Patco Construction. The four levels of sponsorship represent $3,000 for Arctic level, $1,000 for Glacial, $500 for

Frosty, and $250 for Chill.

For more information, and to sponsor or donate, visit www. caring-unlimited.org/atlanticplunge, email laney@caringunlimited.org or call 207-4903227.

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SPICES from page 9

and the desire to eat before lunch. Eating less can help people more effectively control their body weight, which in turn reduces their risk for heart disease.

Turmeric

Garlic and cayenne

p epper may already be staples in many people’s kitchens, but that’s not necessarily so with turmeric. A yellow spice often used when preparing Indian foods, turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties thanks to curcumin, the part of turmeric responsible

Black Boar Bistro

for giving it its yellow color. Experts acknowledge that turmeric needs to be studied more to definitively conclude its effects on heart health, but WebMD notes that one small study indicated that turmeric can help ward off heart attacks in people who have had bypass surgery.

Coriander

A popular herb used across the globe, coriander is sometimes mistaken for cilantro. Alhough the two come from the same plant, cilantro refers to the leaves and stems of the coriander plant, while the coriander in recipes typically refers to the seeds of that plant. Mercy Health notes that coriander seeds may help reduce bad cholesterol and high blood pressure, both of which are significant risk factors for heart disease.

Heart-healthy herbs and spices can be added to various recipes, proving that nutritious meals need not be void of flavor. Adding herbs and spices to healthy foods is a great way to stick to those to New Year’s resolutions, and for maintaining a healthy outlook for 2023.

Article content provided by MetroCreative, WebMD and Mercy Health. The Weekly Sentinel does not endorse any products or services suggested by articles from MetroCreative, WebMD or Mercy Health.

THE OLD VILLAGE INN

“A New England Tradition since 1833”

Open Tuesday-Saturday at 4 p.m.

Closed Sunday-Monday. Call for reservations. We follow all of Maine’s COVID-19 rules.

250 Main St, Ogunquit (207) 646-7088 www.theoldvillageinn.net

Open New Year’s Eve!

Weekly Recipe: Indian Sheet Pan Chicken with Chickpeas

Gluten-free, Serves 4

The spices in this dish are inspired by Indian cuisine. The acid in the yogurt marinade helps tenderize the chicken. The sugar helps brown the chicken skin and caramelize it as it roasts. Be sure to toss the chickpeas (garbanzo beans) and caulifl ower fl orets occasionally, coating them in the chicken fat as it renders.

Benefits: chickpeas contain fiber which aids digestion, increases satiety, and helps lower blood cholesterol. The iron in chickpeas helps transport oxygen properly throughout the body. The zinc they contain may play a role in reducing the risk of macular degeneration. It also maintains collagen and elastin for beautiful skin.

Ingredients

3-3.5 lbs. bone-in, skin-on chicken parts (breasts, thighs, legs)

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

1.5 cups low-fat Greek yogurt, divided 5 tbsp. fresh lemon juice, divided

2 tsp. ground turmeric, divided 2 tbsp. water

2 cans (14-15 oz. each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed

1 tbsp. fennel seed

2 tsp. ground cumin

1 tsp. ground cardamom

0.5 tsp. ground cayenne

1 cup cauliflower florets

1 large red onion, thinly sliced, divided

2 tbsp. olive oil

0.5 cup fresh mint or cilantro leaves, torn

Directions

1. Season chicken with salt and pepper to taste.

2. In a large bowl, combine ¾ cup yogurt, 2 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tsp turmeric and 2 tbsp water. Add the chicken and toss, coating evenly. Let sit for at least 30 minutes at room temperature, or overnight in the refrigerator, before cooking.

3. Place oven rack on the top third of the oven and heat to 425 degrees F.

4. On a sheet pan, combine the chickpeas, fennel seeds, cumin, cardamom, cayenne, remaining turmeric, cauliflower, and half the onion slices. Drizzle with the olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and toss well to coat.

5. Move the vegetables to both sides of the sheet pan. Scrape any excess marinade off the chicken parts and place them in the center, skin-side up. Place in the oven and bake, tossing the veggies occasionally, for 45 to 50 minutes or until the skin of the chicken is evenly browned, and the chickpeas are golden and starting to crisp.

6. Meanwhile, toss the remaining onion slices with 2 tbsp lemon juice and season with salt and pepper, and set aside.

7. Combine the remaining yogurt with the remaining lemon juice, salt, and pepper and set aside.

8. Scatter the chicken with lemony onions and mint or cilantro. Serve with seasoned yogurt alongside as a sauce.

Recipe reprinted with permission from “Anti-Aging Dishes from Around the World,” By Grace O, Skyhorse Publishing.

OGUNQUIT -

Spirit of Giving a Smashing Success

What is the spirit of giving? These words mean many things to many people, but in Ogunquit, they conjured up visions of hundreds of gifts gathered for needy children throughout the state. The Ogunquit Spirit of Giving Committee worked hard this year gathering gifts and donations to provide for children as the spirit of giving grew within the community.

Gifts were collected for specific individual children served by Maine non-profit organizations, Adoptive and Foster Families of Maine and the Kinship Program (AFFM), and the Frannie Peabody Center (FPC). At last count, 630 Kids woke wake up to a brighter

Christmas this year. The party was a smashing success, with funds raised, gifts donated, dancing and karaoke.

Delicious hors d’oeuvres were generously donated by Blue Bistro, Bread & Roses, Brickyard

Hollow, Clay Hill Farm, Cliff House of Maine, Cornerstone Pizza, Crew OGT, Five-O, the Front Porch, Greenery Cafe, Greenleaves, Harbor Candy Shoppe, Jonathan’s, La Pizzeria, Mornings in Paris, Nikanos, Northern Union, Ruby’s, That Place in Ogunquit, and Village Food Market.

Gift distribution generously donated by National Distributors and Bow Street Beverage. Party location generously donated by Mainestreet Ogunquit.

To learn more about Ogunquit Spirit of Giving and how to sponsor a child or family in 2023, visit www. ogunquitgiving.com or www. facebook.com/ogunquitspiritof giving.

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designation, so we are heartened to see this finally come to fruition,” she added.

York River joins the national program as a Partnership Wild and Scenic River, making it one of eighteen designated rivers that follow this model.

Partnership rivers benefit from financial and technical assistance from the National Park Service but are not managed by the federal agency. The partnership principles of local governance and limited federal role are codified in the newly authorized legislation.

Study committee chair Judy Spiller of Kittery indicated, “This is a wonderful opportunity to give communities the boost they need to sustain the river into the future. When there are so many competing

river resources don’t always get the attention they deserve. This designation will enable a long-term watershed approach to local river stewardship.”

Over the next year, York River watershed communities will form a Stewardship Committee to facilitate implementation of the stewardship plan, engage citizens, and coordinate with partner groups. The committee will decide how annual funding from the National Park Service Wild and Scenic Rivers Program is used for activities and projects that help protect the qualities that earned the river its Wild and Scenic status.

For more information on the York River Wild and Scenic Study, visit www.yorkrivermaine.org. (Image of the upper York River by David J. Murray of Clear Eye Photo)

Andrew B. Schontag, 78

SOUTH BERWICK –

Andrew B. Schontag passed away peacefully at the age of 78 on December 21, 2022, at the Berwick Estates in South Berwick. He was born in Newton, MA, on November 11, 1944, to Carl and Ernestine Schontag. A 1963 graduate of ActonBoxborough Regional High School in Acton, MA, he owned and operated automotive businesses in Massachusetts and Virginia, always a car enthusiast and lifelong master mechanic.

MCINTIRE-MCCOOEY

FUNERAL HOME Div. of Tasker Funeral Service, Inc. 301 Main St., So. Berwick, ME 03908 207-384-2373 • www.taskerfh.com

TASKER

FUNERAL HOME Garrison City Crematory Tasker Monument Co. 621 Central Ave., Dover, NH 03820 603-742-4961 • www.taskerfh.com

Family Owned and Operated

Andy was a voracious reader, a history buff, and a Civil War enthusiast, participating in many battle reenactments. He loved Virginia, especially the Shenandoah Valley. He loved his Southern Comfort and Coke, sweet tea in a mason jar, and a pipe full of Captain Black. Andy was a great dancer and colorful storyteller, with an infamous deep rich voice. He was known for being a good friend, generous and kind – an old soul that was also mischievous and ready for adventure. Andy made friends wherever he went.

Andy was preceded by his brother Peter Schontag, and survived by his brother Russel Shon; sister Cheryl Sherman; daughter Kristen Smith; and two grandchildren, Marshall and Grayson Smith.

Andy will be laid to rest in the Schontag Family Cemetery in Newton, MA. Arrangements are entrusted to the Johnson Funeral Home, 26 Market Street, North Berwick. Condolences may be expressed at www.johnsonfuneralhomeme.com.

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Paul Soper, 55

WELLS – Paul passed on to his heavenly home on December 21, 2022. Born on November 24, 1967 in Washington D.C., Paul was the son of Richard and Linda Soper.

Paul received his bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Southern Maine. Later he went on to earn his master’s degree from Southern New Hampshire University. He was employed by Labcorp, where he was an IT project management director for the last seven years. Prior to

Labcorp, he was employe d by IDEXX Laboratories.

Paul was a long time resident of Wells. He was married to his loving wife, Heidi, for 24 years whom he met in college and began dating in 1989. Paul is Heidi’s one true love and very best friend. They were inseparable and loved spending all their time together.

Paul has two children. His loving daughter Roslyn was so precious to him. He loved to hear all her stories of the adventures she experienced. He would light up whenever her name was mentioned. His son Grant was not only a son, but a best friend. Hours of hockey rink time were spent together. Paul was so proud of his son, filled with pride every time Grant’s name was mentioned.

Paul enjoyed hockey and was a coach for ten years. He also enjoyed coaching little league in his son’s earlier years. In the summer, Paul could be found in Wayne at the family camp, boating, fishing, and enjoying family time. Those memories are precious and will forever be in the hearts of Heidi, Roslyn, and Grant.

Paul was a baptized Christian for 24 years. He attended the Kittery Church of Christ and taught Bible class when his children were young. He loved the Lord with all his heart and always strived to be the very best

example to others. Paul was a loving, kind, compassionate, gentle soul. He always had a kind word to say about everyone.

Paul is survived by his loving wife Heidi Soper; children, Roslyn Soper and Grant Soper; father-in-law Tony (Nancy) Grant; brothers, Robert (Melina) Soper and Daniel (Faye) Soper; brothers-in-law, Todd (Donna) Grant and Dr. Mark (Jennifer) Grant; ten loved nieces and nephews; and his very beloved dog Ruby, who worked in his office with him every day.

Paul was predeceased by wonderful, beloved parents Richard and Linda Soper, and dearly loved mother-in-law Sandy Grant.

A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. on Friday, January 6 at Kittery Church of Christ, 48 Love Lane, Kittery. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Gander Brook Christian Camp in Raymond at www. ganderbrook.org/donate. Paul’s children enjoyed many summers at Gander Brook, while Paul and Heidi also spent time volunteering there. It was a special place in Paul’s heart. 2 Timothy 4:7-8.

To share a memory or leave a message of condolence, visit Paul’s Book of Memories Page at www.bibberfuneral.com. Arrangements are in the care of Bibber Memorial Chapel, 111 Chapel Road, Wells.

Funeral Home and Cremation Services 207-676-2622 26 Market Street, North Berwick, ME 03906-0475 JohnsonFH@maine.rr.com www.JohnsonFuneralHomeME.com

Bernier-Gelinas

Kittery, ME

We are often asked by the families we serve, here at JS Pelkey & Son and Bernier Funeral Homes, why certain expressions and traditions exist in the funeral service industry. One of the most often asked questions is “Why send flowers to a memorial service or funeral, aren’t they just a waste of money?” Well nothing could be further from the truth.

As my friend Todd Van Beck recently wrote in an article: Flowers are sent to funerals for several reasons. Flowers are a means of expression. It is often difficult for those mourning a death to put feelings into words.

Flowers are a visual expression of love, sympathy, and respect. They are a way of lending support and sharing the burden of grief.

In addition to sending flowers to the funeral, there is a growing trend to send flowers to the home of the bereaved after the service. Some people also send flowers to the church in memory of the deceased.

Flowers create a background of warmth and beauty which adds to the dignity and consolation of the service. Those who have attended services where there were no flowers have noted that something was

FUNERAL HOME Somersworth, NH

bereaved’s feelings in the patterns of community support which are psychologically beneficial. Flowers, however, express the inexpressible – they are symbolic.

. . .

takes an insightful look at the life of this public servant, war hero, and entrepreneur.

missing – that the funeral was depressing. The funeral meets the bereaved’s need for support. Death throws people into despair and depression by separating them from one who has provided love, companionship, and security. The funeral and customs provide the means by which those close to them can give their support and share their suffering.

The funeral period provides for the expression of sorrow. Only through talking about the past can the bereaved person realize the extent of the relationship with the deceased, and accept the loss and suffering. Only through weeping and talking to good listeners can they release their grief and feelings of guilt and hostility. Experts in grief therapy believe that it can be expressed best through rites, rituals, and ceremonies. The ceremony deals primarily with intellectual concepts and doesn’t fully engage the

125 Old Post Rd., Kittery, ME 207-439-4900

www.jspelkeyfuneralhome.com

There are three points to be stressed, finally, in connection with the tradition of funeral flowers. First, the role of flowers are both symbolic and aesthetic. They add great value to the richness and meaning of the ritual. Second, flowers represent sympathy extended to the bereaved. Third, flowers are sent to both the living and the dead. They are sent to the living as comfort and as tokens of respect for the deceased.

We, at the JS Pelkey & Son and the Bernier Funeral Homes, hold the value of the work our local florists do in very high regard. We always encourage the families we serve to contact a local florist directly. Certainly there are national floral outlets that can be reached with a simple Google search but, honestly, the quality of these products are often substandard. Simply click the “Send Flowers” tab on our website and you will be directed to our list of trusted florists. Please call us about any questions with which we may help.

49 South St., Somersworth, NH 603-692-2160 www.berniergelinasfh.com

Serving the entire Seacoast and beyond

“Non-fiction stories are sometimes more entertaining than stories involving capes and tights,” said publisher Darren G. Davis. “In this case, the news far outpasses traditional comic books. President George H. W. Bush passed away on November 30, 2018, and we wanted to honor his legacy with this unbiased biographic comic book.

The “Political Power” line of comics has been embraced by the media and featured on several television news outlets. The series has also been featured in many publications such as the “Los Angeles Times,” “Time Magazine,” and “People Magazine.”

Print copies are avail-

able on www.amazon.com, while digital versions are available from iTunes, Kindle, Nook, ComiXology, Kobo, and wherever e-books are sold. For more information, visit www.tidalwavecomics.com.

Let’s Hit Our Heads on the Sky Nominees for U.S. Military Service Academies

By Jim Fabiano

I don’t know of too many people who are upset that 20202022, are now part of our past. With the pandemic trying to end, political discourse, and a war in Europe few of us understand, we want the future to be better than our past. I was walking into the mall with my wife the other day attempting to bring up our spirits. As we were walking through the entrance, I noticed a young child sitting on his father’s shoulders. Before the door closed, I heard the father tell his son to be careful not to hit his head on the sky. I stopped for a few seconds to ponder what I just heard. Can you imagine a father telling his son not to hit his head on the sky?

We went directly to Macy’s because my wife wanted a new pair of sneakers. Knowing that this would not be an easy choice, I decided to explore some of the bookstores in the mall. As I was walking through the maze of stores and the multitudes of people wandering aimlessly through the main walkway, a young woman came running up to me and asked how I was. I remembered her as being one of my students from years past. She was with some of her friends of whom she introduced as her new friends from college. I was thrilled to hear she was doing well, and she had plans to go to graduate school next fall. She told me that she wanted to study geology. It was obvious she was proud of her accomplishments, and it was even more obvious I was proud of her. As we bid our adieus I turned and reminded her to never forget to hit her head on the sky. I don’t know why I told her that but if felt right.

At first, she gave me a queer look but then smiled and told me she wouldn’t forget. I continued my walk through the labyrinth called

the mall.

As I walked into one of the bookstores, I noticed another one of my students behind the counter.

I know he noticed me, but it seemed he didn’t want to talk with me. I remember him as being a good student. In fact, to this day I can remember very few of my students who were not good. I walked up and asked how he was. He immediately told me he was going back to school because he knew how important it was. I made him laugh by telling him I am also going back to school because education was not something that ended. It was a continuous process that one should love to enjoy. He smiled and told me he understood this. As I did earlier, before I said good-bye, I told my ex-student not to forget to hit his head on the sky. He did not give me any kind of a queer look. He just told me he wouldn’t and hoped one day to see what was above the sky. As before I was taken back and then smiled to continue my quest through the mall.

It was getting late, and I assumed my wife must have been down to at least a choice of one of six sneakers to buy. I turned to go back to Macy’s when a man I hadn’t seen for well over a decade approached me. I was surprised he remembered who I was. I was not surprised I knew exactly who he was. He was the first principal I ever worked for. Quick flashes of memory brought a smile to my face. If it wasn’t for his guidance, I doubt I would have succeeded as a teacher. He asked how I was doing, and I told him I was doing well and was now retired. I found out he was also retired and enjoying the time administration work never allowed. We talked about how teaching never changes.

The people may change but the quest for knowledge and the

Tips to Keep Homes Warm

STATEWIDE -

The following are some ways to keep homes warm while saving energy this winter: Replace single-pane windows with double- or triplepane windows. The air, or in some cases gas, in between the window panes acts as extra insulation.

Covering windows with the right shades and draperies prevents warm air from escaping. Keep shades on south-facing windows open during the day to let in sunlight, but close draperies at night to reduce chill.

Lowering a thermostat while away or asleep can also lower utility bills. The lower the temperature is inside a house, the slower the heat loss. A programmable thermostat may be just the trick!

Check for air leaks around the house, particularly coming from fireplace dampers, electri-

cal outlets, or gaps around pipes and wires. Check for air leaks around windows by holding up a flame and seeing if it blows horizontally. Also, if daylight can be seen around doors or window frame, then there is an air leak.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, most households usually only need water heater thermostats to be set at 120°F, but some manufacturers automatically set them at 140°F. which could burnp up bills an extra $400 a year in heat losses.

Turn on ceiling fans in winter! Reverse the direction so that it spins clockwise, and it needs to move at the lowest speed. This helps redistribute hot air that naturally rises to the ceiling and blows it back down.

The Weekly Sentinel does not endorse any products or services suggested by third-party sources.

YORK COUNTYU.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced recently their nominees to the United States Military Academies. To be considered for an appointment to a service academy, applicants must be nominated by an authorized nominating source, which includes Members of Congress. Admission to the United States Coast Guard Academy, also a federal service academy, does not require a congressional nomination.

“We are proud to have the

need to offer it was always what it was and probably always will be. After a few more minutes we excused ourselves and went on our way. As we were walking in separate directions I turned around and told my mentor that I’ll never be afraid to hit my head on the sky. I was a little embarrassed, but it seemed right at the time. He

honor to nominate such an impressive group of Maine students to our nation’s distinguished service academies,” said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. “The young people we have nominated have earned this honor through a commitment to strong scholarship, leadership, and character.”

The following students from York County have received nominations as candidates to the military academies from Senators Collins and King:

turned, smiled, and taught me another lesson. He told me that there was no such thing as a sky so why should I be afraid to hit my head on it.

When I got back to Macy’s my wife had just purchased the perfect pair of sneakers. She asked me why I had such an odd look on my face. All I could think of was

United States Air Force Academy, Colorado Springs: Joseph Neal of York, York High School; United States Military Academy, West Point: Joseph Neal of York, York High School; United States Naval Academy, Annapolis: Liam Sullivan of Berwick, St. Thomas Aquinas.

For a complete list, visit www.collins.senate.gov/news room/senators-collins-king announce-maine-nominees-to-the -united-states-military-serviceacademies.

that I loved her, and I loved my life. I don’t know of too many people who are upset that 2020 – 2022, are now part of our past. In 2023, we should all hit our heads above the sky.

Jim Fabiano is a retired teacher and writer who lives in York. He can be emailed at james. fabiano60@gmail.com.

OPENING SOON IN YORK: “Seacoast Salon & Spa”

Would you like to work for yourself, sell your own product, be your own boss? I have the perfect rental space that is affordable and in a prime location. This opportunity won’t last long so call soon to secure your space. A New Year, New Beginnings! I have four Styling Stations that include a glass case with a lock to sell your own retail; two Massage Therapy rooms; and an Eyebrow Tattooist room. If you’re a Nail Tech that wants employment or to be subcontracted, let’s talk! I’m excited to provide a beautiful place for your success – call 603-817-2711.

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Misty Harbor Resort

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Come join our team! Misty Harbor offers a great work environment. Year round and seasonal, full and part time positions available. We offer top wages, medical and dental for our full time employees.

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Join one of Southern Maine’s premier hotels and family of companies.

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Apply in person at the Gorges Grant Hotel, 449 Main Street in Ogunquit, or forward resume via mail to: Human Resources, PO Box 2240, Ogunquit, ME 03907 or email to: hr@ogunquit.com

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Year-round and seasonal positions available.

Year-round positions include salary commensurate with experience and a full benefits package including: health, dental, and life insurance; paid time off; 401k with company match; and profit-sharing bonus.

Apply in person at 336 Main Street or 449 Main Street in Ogunquit, mail resume to Human Resources, P.O. Box 2240, Ogunquit, ME 03907, or email resume to hr@ogunquit.com.

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LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICE

PETITION FOR A PARDON STATE OF MAINE

Augusta, January 19, 2023

Notice is hereby given that a Petition for a Pardon for Garrett G. Shalbey who was convicted of the crime(s) VI-2014-00064 Possession of Marijuana (V) & Sale and Use of Drug Paraphernalia (V), VI-2007-00355

Possession of Marijuana (V) & Sale and Use of Drug Paraphernalia (V), CR-2007-01771 Operate Vehicle Without License (E), CR-2011-02154

Aggravated Forgery (B) & Fail to Provide Correct Name, Address, DOB (E), CR-2007-02651 Operate Vehicle Without License (E), CR-2004-02890

Failure to Register Vehicle (E), CR2004-03522 Theft by Receiving Stolen Property (C), is now pending before the Governor and a hearing will be conducted on Thursday, January 19, 2023, at 9:00 o’clock A.M.

Please visit the following link for Hearing details: https://www.maine. gov/corrections/pardonboard

Tips to Help Curb Your Spending

STATEWIDE -

Whether making financial resolutions to curb monthly spending patterns, or to just save up extra cash for those upcoming vacation plans, here are three tips from Rebecca Gramuglia, consumer expert at www.topcashback.com, that can help:

Reassess expenses. Reflect on whether autopaying for monthly utilities or auto-subscribing to

CARPENTRY

uused trial subscriptions are really worth it. Bills and subscriptions may be conveniently set on autopay, a convenient feature to keep from missing payments, but these services could be costing more if their autopay feature is forgotten about. Some autopay features charge a monthly “convenience fee,” and that extra charge can add up quickly month-to-month. Review these expenses every few months and set reminders to cancel outdated free trial subscriptions. When it comes to saving, impulse shopping can be detrimental

to anybody’s goal. Always make a shopping list before going to the store, and unsubscribe from store emails from places you overspend at or don’t shop at anymore.

Buy generic or the store brand whenever possible. Generic products are typically a fraction of the cost of the branded products. Significant savings in the long run can be achieved by making this one simple switch.

purchase, and leaving the items in the shopping cart. Close out of the browser window, and keep an eye on the corresponding emails. The website’s algorithm will notice, and will eventually send a “you forgot something in your cart” email over the next few hours or days, usually with a discount code.

Make your ideas come to life this season! Contact Jake at jacobrobertswoodworker@ gmail.com or 207-205-7140.

LEGAL NOTICES

Town of Kittery - Board of Appeals NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

In-Person, Council Chambers - Public can attend in person or at https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_3JpZwYytQO-3_EZDGPdzbQ

Tuesday, January 10, 2023 – 6:30 p.m.

Alan Shepard, on behalf of owners Michael and Barbara Murphy of 52 Goodwin Road, request a Miscellaneous Variation to adjust the property line of a non-conforming lot located in the Residential – Rural Conservation Zone per Code Section 16.1.8.

Application information is available for public inspection by appointment only between 8:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday, at the Development Department located in Kittery Town Hall. To request a reasonable accommodation for this meeting please contact staff.

Shop online. Consumers may opt to buy clothing and more expensive items, like electronics and jewelry, in-store to examine or to try on the product. However, shopping online can save even more than shopping in-store. Consumers can always visit the physical store to see an item in person, but online shopping allows one to layer on discounts or loyalty points, earning even more savings. In addition to using promo codes or coupons, opt to shop through a cash back site, like www.topcashback.com, to score a percentage of money back on qualifying purchases from stores.

For those who don’t want to wait for shipping on online items, one smart shopping technique to try is to find the items at retailers offering in-store or curbside pickup. The savvy shopper can then get the same low price online, all while potentially saving on shipping fees, and/or getting the item faster.

Don’t check out right away! Shoppers may be able to score extra savings by holding off on the

Do what works best. Not every new money-saving hack under the sun works for everyone, but starting with a few new techniques in the new year can help avoid financial burnout. When adopting a new savings strategy, always take current lifestyle spending patterns into consideration. For example, it may seem doable to cut down on a few weekly food delivery services, but if the service is a well-deserved weekly treat, or the convenience is worth the price, then work the budget around that instead.

The Weekly Sentinel does not endorse any products or services suggested by third-party sources.

. . . FOREST from page 11

Plan funds to improve the l ives of Maine people and families, help businesses, create good-paying jobs, and build an economy poised for future prosperity.

Since the onset of the pandemic, more than $288 million in assistance to support Maine small businesses has been allocated. For more information, visit www. maine.gov/jobsplan.