January 5, 2023

Giving comes full circle

By Dawn De Busk Staff Writer

NAPLES— Madeline

Stone, a young girl from Naples who was selling wreaths and decorations to raise money to buy gifts for a few children she knew, succeeded in making their Christmases better.

Giving to others seemed to make Christmas better for 9-year-old Maddy, according to her mom.

“She learned that you can get a lot of happiness from giving and helping others in need. I think she was more happy about that than her own Christmas gifts,” Tammie Stone said.

“Our neighbor, the little boy who is five got a scooter, and all the little matchbook cars and the racetrack. It was fun to see him enjoy his toys,” she said.

Before Christmas, Maddy sold 12 wreaths and 15 decorations plus received $180 in monetary donations.

Amazingly after Christmas, people continued to contact Maddy to help out. People in the community purchased three wreaths and seven decorations. People donated more than $130 in cash.

“I was surprised. It made me happy,” Maddy said of

the post-Christmas charity.

On Christmas Eve, Maddy was feeling the lastminute rush as she and her mom shopped for the gifts at the crowded Walmart in Windham.

“We ended up spending around $500. She wanted to take her money from her piggy bank. She brought her piggy bank in a little purse. We wouldn’t let her use it,” she said.

“We were at Walmart as they were closing on Christmas Eve. She was not feeling well so walking around the store was difficult. She had a job to do. ‘I am playing elf,’ she told

Area residents asked to help ‘Correct the Dots’

Many in western Maine complain about spotty, slow, or nonexistent Internet service. They are shut out of countless online jobs, classes, and business opportunities.

Now, the State of Maine has sent engineers to about 2,500 Maine addresses to see if Internet service is as good as federal reports say it is.

Turns out, it’s not.

Forty percent of the 2,500 addresses need to be corrected on recently released

Federal Communications Commission maps (along with the new map style, the FCC also introduced a challenge process that allows governments and citizens to highlight false claims of availability and

ensure that all homes and business locations are included on this map). This is probably true around the rest of Maine too. It is easy to do, but you don’t have much time. Challenges to the maps must be made before next Friday, Jan. 13, 2023. The trick is, only you can correct the address of your home, camp, or business.

Why bother? Challenging or correcting the FCC maps will open the

CORRECT, Page 3A

me,” Stone said.

Another challenge was that Maddy was expecting a very exciting visitor, service dog Dolly Pawton. The dog’s owner Amy Sherwood had arranged a set time to stop by Maddy’s house to buy a wreath. But, the Christmas gift shopping took longer. On their way home, Amy called and asked Maddy if she needed anything. They had run out of wrapping paper and had forgotten to get more at the store.

Sherwood showed up with two rolls of wrapping paper, additional gifts for the children and a gift for Maddy: cat ear headphones.

“She loves Dolly, the service dog,” Stone said.

Later that evening, Maddy and her mom delivered packages to one of the children who was spending Christmas at his home nearby.

“We had the other two come pick up their gifts from us because it was too

hectic. We wanted to deliver to all three people, but we ran out of time,” Stone said.

Although Maddy did a lion’s share of the work,

Companies catch up on tax, get biz licenses

By Dawn De Busk Staff Writer

NAPLES — Before 2022 ended, approximately a half dozen businesses that were in violation of the Naples Business License Ordinance remedied the situation or made arrangements with the town to do so.

Meanwhile, Naples Town Manager John Hawley reminded everyone that business licenses for 2023 are now available through the town office.

Naples Business License Ordinance.

However, after town staff contacted those businesses one more time with the information that a court date could be on the horizon, the business owners rectified the matter.

nesses have since contacted the town, and made arrangements, according to Miller.

Q. I have heard “rumors” that when we hook up to the new sewer system, it will cost $5 to $6,000, and the old septic tank must be removed at an additional cost of $5 to $6,000. This could be a “rumor” and be way off — Betty H. A. The News reached out to Bridgton Town Manager Robert Peabody for answers, and was told:

• Regarding the “hookup” to the town sewer system, the estimated fee is $600. However, the town will waive this cost if the property owner hooks into the new system within the first 12 months when the facility goes on line. The facility is expected to be operational by October/ November 2023.

• Peabody noted that the cost to install a line from the residence to the sewer “hub” will likely depend upon distance and typography. Based on “the average town property,” Peabody said the estimate is $1,800 to $2,200. This work will either be done by a contractor or the property owner can take on the digging to run the sewer line from the home to the hub.

• The hook-up to the hub must be done by a “certified” individual. The town will be compiling a list of three to four contractors, who will be reviewed/certified by the sewer project’s engineer Woodard and Curran as authorized individuals to do this hook-up.

Clerk retires after 34 years

By Dawn De Busk Staff Writer

NAPLES — The Town of Naples is starting the New Year with a new town clerk. Michelle Thibodeau has that title now.

After 34 years of service, Naples Town Clerk Judy Whynot took part in the Dec. 13 ceremony of swearing-in her replacement. That was her last official action as town clerk.

“Most elected and appointed officials must be sworn in annually. Our swearing-in ceremony was more ceremonial because Naples hasn’t had a new town clerk in 34 years,” according to Naples Town Manager John Hawley.

“Surrounded by municipal staff and family, Judy expressed gratitude and well wishes gracefully. Her last day in the office was Dec. 30,” the town’s Facebook post said.

The Naples Board of Selectmen offered to hold a retirement party but Whynot declined saying she only wanted lunch with staff, according to Town Manager Hawley.

He mentioned some of the skills and qualities that Whynot possessed which contributed toward her being a good, long-time employee.

CLERK, Page 2A

In early November, the Naples Board of Selectmen voted to take to court eight (8) businesses for not complying with the

“Following our last meeting, Paula [Miller] contacted all eight unlicensed businesses to notify them of the pending court action for ordinance violation. They have either taken care of getting their licenses or committed to doing so,” Hawley said during a selectmen’s meeting on Nov. 28.

The three other busi-

So far, those businesses which took care of the personal property tax bill and applied for the 2023 business license are: Watson & Son Building Movers, Inc., JMG Construction, Chute Insurance Agency, E&W Auto and Smith’s Autobody. The selectmen approved those licenses during the Nov. 28 meeting.

Personal Property Tax, also referred to as business tax, is not a real estate tax.

It is a tax levied on assets that are owned by any

abstained.

By Dawn De Busk Staff Writer

CASCO — The Casco Public Library — which is nestled in the Village and is open to the community four days a week — has developed a problem underfoot.

Many of the required repairs deal with the floor joists. In fact, one room was temporarily closed because there was too much dead weight on the floor from the heavy book shelves. Ultimately, that book sale room needs to have the floor demolished and replaced.

“We love the building. From the outside, it looks great. From the inside, it looks cozy and warm,” Library Treasurer Pam Edwards said, adding that the structural problems are pressing.

She asked the Casco Board of Selectmen to put on the Casco Special Town Meeting warrant the library’s request for $125,000 to repair the most pressing issues.

On Tuesday, the board voted, 3-0-2, to put the $125,000 repair request on a warrant article, which will appear at the special town meeting on Jan. 24. Selectmen Eugene Connolly and Grant Plummer

Edwards provided a presentation to the board.

“At the beginning of last year, we formed a facilities committee because we knew that we should be looking more closely at the condition of the building. And we should know what those issues are and how to plan for them,” Edwards said.

Fortunately, a professional structural engineer did the work pro bono for the library. The legwork of getting bid prices for specific projects was completed, too.

“Some of them [repairs] are imperative. That is the building doesn’t function fully if we don’t do them. The others are high priority. They don’t need to be done, but will make the building more energy efficient. Other improvements are making the building truly accessible for every one,” she said.

“We are asking for $125,000 from the town. That is about half the cost that we have identified so far,” she said.

“We have already secured $45,000 through grants and other means. We are planning to do a capital campaign starting in a couple of months. We have identified four or five grants opportunities that we will be pursuing,” she said.

Chairman Robert MacDonald responded.

“The list is quite extensive. Some of it has to do with the fact that buildings have been added to buildings. This one has a different foundation. Most of those buildings are fairly old,” MacDonald said.

Edward confirmed the first building was built in 1950.

“Structurally, in what we

creating decorations and decorating wreaths, the cat got her tongue when it came to handing out the presents.

THANK YOU’S— Former Naples Town Clerk Judy

Whynot received a plaque of appreciation on Dec. 13 after swearing-in her replacement. Whynot retired on Dec. 30 after 34 years with the Town of Naples.

(Photo provided by Town of Naples)

9-YEAR-OLD Madeline “Maddy” Stone prepares to open a present on Christmas Day. Stone sold wreaths and hand-made decorations to buy gifts for some children she knew might not get much for Christmas. (Photo courtesy of Tammie Stone)

“Judy had excellent customer relations skills. People were always happy to conduct their business with her,” Hawley said.

“She was very knowledgeable about all of the clerk’s duties and responsibilities, and she was very organized,” he said.

“Judy’s years of service allowed her to amass a wealth of local knowledge of residents and their properties. Specific information that may not be kept in any formal record, such as contact info for family relatives, was stored in her mind, and she was able to recall most of the information on demand,” Hawley said.

The job of town clerk has a wide number of roles and responsibilities, including overseeing elections. Hawley provided a list of what that job entails.

“The town clerk has an understanding of laws that govern the responsibilities of the Town Clerk’s Department, including, but not limited to, vital records, licensing, elections, records management, and provi-

sions Municipal Code of Ordinances. This includes the ability to periodically re-learn information concerning rules and regulations as they are amended, as well as the ability to cite the reference.

Processes and issues all business licenses in a database and ensures advertis-

Donations continues to pour in

“Maddie was shy about it. She was ecstatic about doing it, but when it came time to give the gifts, she got shy and had me do it,” Stone said.

In the mail on Tuesday, a letter and a check arrived from a woman in Sweden.

“Dear Maddy: What a

nice thing to do for your less fortunate friends. I am so proud of you. Maybe this check will let you do more for them. I know you will find others in need,” the letter said.

Maddy did not have anything in mind yet. After all, most elves need a break after the holidays.

Woodlands Senior Living has opened the doors to the first and only purpose-built memory care community in the Lakes Region area.

Woodlands Memory Care of Bridgton held a series of open house events earlier in the month. The first residents were welcomed beginning Tuesday.

“There is nothing more important to families than making sure their loved ones are given high quality care close to home and near their family and friends,” said Matthew

Walters, managing member of Woodlands Senior Living. “The Lake Region now has a purpose-built memory care community, which means it is specifically built to serve the unique needs of individuals living with memory impairment. Woodlands has more than 20 years of experience developing and operating this type of specialized community with the knowhow and skillsets to provide the best possible care for our residents. We are excited to start accepting new residents and pro-

vide this service for the good people of the Lake Region.”

The 48-bed Bridgton

community is 24,000 square feet, features 16 private rooms and 16 shared

Bank donates nearly

NORWAY — To help nonprofits cope with another difficult year due to economic challenges, Norway Savings Bank awarded nearly $1.1 million to 358 nonprofits in 2022.

$750,000 was granted this year, while another $339,916 will be distributed in the form of multi-year grants.

In December, the bank made 27 surprise “Helping Hands gifts” to deserving organizations, totaling $100,000. These nonprofits provide much-needed resources in Cumberland,

Oxford, Androscoggin, York and Sagadahoc counties.

“This year, we know that members of our communities are struggling with the high costs of everyday items like food, heating oil and other essentials.” said Dan Walsh, president and CEO of Norway Savings Bank.

“These Helping Hands gifts are our way of providing some assistance to nonprofits focusing on addressing those immediate needs.”

The organizations provide a wide range of servic-

SUPPORTING NON-PROFITS — Norway Savings Bank donated nearly $1.1 million to nonprofit organizations in 2022. Here, Norway Savings Bank, President and CEO Dan Walsh (left), along with Erin Nelson, AVP, Bridgton Branch Manager (right) and Janice de Lima, VP and Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) Officer (far right) present Darcey Pomerleau, Executive Director of the Bridgton Community Center, with a Helping Hands gift of $5,000.

WHYNOT RETIRES — Then-Town Clerk Judy Whynot swears-in her replacement Naples Town Clerk Michelle Thibodeau on Dec. 13. After 34 years, Whynot retired from the town.

(Photo provided by Town of Naples)

ANIMALS AND ARTS and crafts are among the favorite things of Maddy Stone, 9, of Naples, shown here hugging the family dog on Christmas Day.

(Photo courtesy of Tammie Stone)

Putting ‘eyes’ in sky

When someone started a fire at the Highland Lake beach area bathroom facility last year resulting in total destruction of the building, it marked the second time arson had occurred.

Previously, a storage shed was torched.

Apparently, enough is enough from the town’s perspective. While no arrest has been made yet in the bathroom arson case, the town plans to install surveillance equipment at Highland, as well as other recreational areas.

Police

Chief Phil Jones and Town Manager Bob

Peabody have had conversations with Security 101, which handles Bridgton’s security at the Town Office, Town Hall, Transfer Station and Public Works Department, regarding installation of surveillance devices that can be positioned in high locations, operate in all weather conditions, and can send visual feeds to police and record.

Peabody said the town is looking to purchase six devices, which will be placed at Woods Pond Beach, Highland Lake Beach, Salmon Point and two to-be-determined loca-

Correct the Dots

(Continued from Page 1A)

possibility of fast Internet to more Mainers. Eastern Slopes Regional Broadband (ESRB) urges everyone to take this quick step to benefit the whole state. ESRB is a coalition of seven western Maine towns in SAD 72.

To make your corrections, visit www.maineconnectivity.org/challenge before Jan. 13. Look for “Correct the Dots.” If you don’t have Internet, use your library to access the Web. First, correct or add the address of your home, camp, and business as it appears on the map. Then, challenge inaccuracies in the reported level of service. Minimally adequate service is considered to be 25 megabits per second down, and 3 mbps up. If you need help, check out the Maine

Connectivity Authority’s One Pager.

In the future, $42 billion in federal funds will be allocated to the BEAD program (Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment). Maine’s share will be based on the new maps so their accuracy matters.

This spring, ESRB will apply for state funding to extend affordable, high speed Internet to every town at every mile in SAD 72 (Brownfield, Denmark, Fryeburg, Lovell, Stoneham, Stow, and Sweden).

For more information on high speed Internet in Maine, visit www.maineconnectivity.org.

To receive regular e-mail updates on the expansion of fast Internet in SAD 72, contact info@esrbroadband.org

tions. One device will be “moved around,” Peabody said.

Peabody noted that town workers are rebuilding the bathroom facility with estimated material costs being $40 to $45,000.

You asked

(Continued from Page 1A)

• As for the septic tank, property owners have two choices. One is to dig up and pull the tank. Or, the tank can be opened and filled with sand (thus preventing future collapse), an option Peabody suspects would be less expensive than tank removal.

A contractor hired to install the line could also fill the tank with sand. Peabody noted that the tank would likely need to be pumped before filled with sand (estimated cost $280).

• For some property owners, the overall cost could be burdensome. Peabody said officials are considering available options which the town could use to assist homeowners that fall into certain income guidelines.

“At the end of the day, we want people to hook up,” Peabody said.

Do you have a question you would like answered? If so, send the question to bnews@roadrunner.com and The News will find the answer.

Naples clerk retires

(Continued from Page 2A)

ing requirements are met. Coordinates approvals with other Town departments before licenses are issued.

Organizes and maintains accurate computer files for all licenses sold on a monthly and annual basis.

Prepares monthly reports (Vital Records, Inland Fisheries & Wildlife, Dog, and Mooring) to meet required deadlines.

Prepares Public Hearing notices, billing for advertising fees, and issues licenses for each type specified in State law and the Municipal Code of Ordinances.

Issues dog licenses and maintains up-todate database for Animal Control Officer.

Greets the public by telephone and in person to provide accurate information and assistance in a courteous and helpful manner.

Provides information to the public regarding applications for membership on boards and committees, campaign finance reporting, and various other duties.

Answers inquiries about departmental operations, as authorized, or refers them to the appropriate office for action.

Assists with properly filing vital records.

Assists the Town Clerk with the plan-

ning and supervision of elections.

Processes and issues absentee ballots.

Acts as Deputy Registrar.

Administers oaths of office and notarizes documents.

Processes daily mail. Performs related clerical and record-keeping duties.

Performs duties of other department staff, as required, in their absence.

Works extended hours up to and including Election Day(s).”

The town planned ahead to allow for a smooth transition into Whynot’s retirement, Hawley said.

“Michelle has been with us for well over a year and was hired specifically with the intent to take over Judy’s position. Michelle is native to Naples and already has some of the local knowledge that Judy has acquired,” Hawley said.

“She has proven to be a great selection as she quickly picked up the position-specific detail and shared many of the organizational skills Judy had,” he said.

“As we anticipated Judy’s retirement, Jessie Pratt was hired as a deputy clerk to fill the vacancy that was created by Michelle moving into Judy’s position,” he said.

Naples biz licenses

(Continued from Page 1A)

company doing business in Maine. Those items that can be taxed range from heavy equipment and machinery to office furniture and computers. Per the Naples Business License Ordinance, in order for a business to acquire a business license, the personal property tax must be paid. Taxes are paid twice a year; therefore, the full bill doesn’t have to be paid, just current.

With a new calendar year, the 2023 business licenses are now due. The

deadline is Jan. 31.

People owning a business in Naples “just need to complete this year’s application. Once submitted, we confirm that there are no issues with any of the public safety departments and make sure all the taxes are current. Once all that is in place, it goes to the board of selectmen for approval,” Hawley said.

Administrative Assistant Paula Miller, who also serves in the capacity of Personal Property Assessor’s Agent, explained

how someone can apply for the license.

The business license application “is available on our website, at the town office. Or they can email us for a copy. All current businesses of record were mailed an application for the new year,” Miller said.

The application is located on the town website: https://www.townofnaples. org/forms

The cost is $10.

Currently, there are 186 identified businesses in the Town of Naples. That number fluctuates a bit due to openings and closings,” she said.

Casco Library $125K request

(Continued from Page 1A)

call the book sale room, the floor joist has to be completely replaced. That means the floor has to be taken out. There will be mold remediation done as well as moisture barriers put in,” she said. “We know that all [the rooms] have to have moisture barriers. The main floor beam would have to be reinforced. We have problems with continuous insulation. We have drainage issues under the basement. The vestibule is leaking and has a mold issue.”

“One of the north part of the building is the old fire barn. One the north side, where the sun doesn’t shine, there are serious issues with cracking and mold,” she said.

Casco Fire Chief Brian Cole, who was sitting in the audience, spoke on the subject.

“If we shut the library down, we need to make sure it is safe. Any areas where the structure is not sound, we don’t want people there,” Cole said.

The library’s request was No. 12 on the agenda. Appropriately, the next agenda item was the warrant for the special town meeting in two weeks.

At the end of the meeting, Plummer stressed the importance of getting the engineer’s report and cost estimate list to the citizens of Casco.

“It [the library] is always something that people

of Casco will support. I haven’t had time to digest that whole document. It is important for the document to get out so people can support the library,” Plummer

said. “This is something that will be printed and make available. This isn’t something that should be rushed. We need to let people know.”

opens

(Continued from Page 2A)

rooms, and will employ more than 30 staff. The community’s amenities and features include abundant natural light, home-scaled areas for resident engagement and safety systems. Woodlands Memory Care of Bridgton is Woodlands’ second location in Cumberland County, and also includes on-site features like a beauty salon, a physical and occupational therapy area, and a large outside courtyard. Like its other communities, Woodlands Memory Care of Bridgton will accept both private paying and MaineCare eligible individuals and families.

Story addition

A piece of information was inadvertently left out in the news article entitled, “CMP: Who is first on list,” which appeared on the front page of the Dec. 29 edition of The Bridgton News.

What was accidentally omitted is that the first priority is getting electricity back to hospitals and any assisted care facilities. This happens after downed power lines are removed from major roadways.

Then, after restoring power to buildings like hospitals and critical-care providers, Central Maine Power (CMP) crews focus on re-energizing circuits that provide power to the largest number of businesses and residences at once. — DD

Bank donations

(Continued from Page 2A)

es — nutrition support, fuel assistance, clothing, school supplies, housing, job training and more.

The 27 nonprofit organizations receiving Helping Hands gifts include: Bridgton Community Center, Harrison Food Bank, and North Fryeburg Community Chapel Food Pantry.

ICE GATOR? which appears speared by a wooden stake. (De Busk Photo)

Bridgton Police Department

These items appeared on the Bridgton Police Department blotter (this is a partial listing):

Monday, December 26

7:49 p.m. Report of an intoxicated man on Depot Street. Officer located the individual, who was issued a trespass notice. At 10:14 p.m., police had a second encounter with the individual, this time on Portland Road.

11:42 p.m. Verbal family disturbance on North Bridgton Road.

Tuesday, December 27

9:37 a.m. Subject requested fingerprinting, which was needed for employment.

3:21 p.m. Agency assist on Walker Street.

Wednesday, December 28

2:13 a.m. Mental health event on Kansas Road.

4:19 a. m. Citizen assist on Willis Park Road.

9:29 a.m. Citizen assist on Highland Road.

11:13 a.m. Officers responded to a disturbance at Ward Acres. A male was charged with criminal threatening with a dangerous weapon.

3:43 p.m. Citizen assist on Sam Ingalls Road.

4:18 p.m. Agency assist on Brickyard Hill Road.

5:26 p.m. Following a stop at the intersection of Portland Road and Smith Avenue, a male was charged with operating a motor vehicle while under the influence.

6:15 p.m. Police responded to a disturbance on Sandy Creek Road.

7:50 p.m. Harassment complaint at Ward Acres.

11:39 p.m. Mental health issue at Stonehedge Drive location.

Thursday, December 29

3:09 a.m. Motor vehicle crash on North Bridgton Road.

9:11 a.m. Citizen assist on Blue Jay Lane.

10:07 a.m. Citizen assist on Troy Lane.

2:17 p.m. Agency assist on North Road.

3:05 p.m. Report of a possible protection from abuse order violation on Beaver Creek Farm Road.

5:01 p.m. Motor vehicle crash at the intersection of Main Street and Portland Road.

6:02 p.m. Motor vehicle crash on Willett Road.

Friday, December 30

1:12 a.m. Agency assist

on North High Street.

3:51 a.m. Family fight on Portland Road.

5:18 p.m. Motor vehicle crash on Portland Road.

6:12 p.m. Following a stop on Portland Road, a male was charged with operating a motor vehicle while under the influence.

5:52 p.m. Citizen assist (regarding town’s noise ordinance) on Ingalls Road.

7:33 p.m. Assist Bridgton Fire Department with a fully-involved structure fire on Lombardo Drive.

Saturday, December 31

5:38 a.m. Mental health issue at Main Street location.

1:03 p.m. Landlord, tenant dispute on North High Street.

2:34 p.m. Possible protection from abuse order violation at Journeys Path. Police determined the violation occurred in another jurisdiction.

5:56 p.m. Welfare check on South Bridgton Road.

9:13 p.m. Disturbance at Edgewater Lane.

Sunday, January 1

12:54 a.m. Assist United Ambulance on North Road.

1:50 a.m. Mental health issue at Main Street location.

1:48 p.m. Vehicle window smashed while parked on Portland Road.

4:15 p.m. Motor vehicle crash on Portland Road; no injuries reported. Subject charged with operating while under the influence.

8:22 p.m. Mental health issue at Main Street location.

9:57 p.m. Following a stop at the intersection of Portland Road and Sandy Creek Road, a male was charged with operating after suspension, attaching false license plates, operating an uninspected motor vehicle and failing to provide proof of insurance.

11:08 p.m. Assist United Ambulance at a medical emergency at a George Packard Road location.

Monday, January 2 12:42 a.m. Assist Child Protective Services with investigation at an Academy Lane location.

1:41 a.m. Mental health event at a Main Street location.

2:02 a.m. Motor vehicle crash at the intersection of Burnham Road and Portland Road; no injuries reported.

3:04 a.m. Assist coun-

ty deputy with a possibly intoxicated female, who arrived at a random address on Maple Ridge Road in Harrison and left in a vehicle.

2:13 p.m. Following a stop on Portland Road in Naples, a male was charged

motor vehicle crash on Lovell Road.

1:49 p.m. Suspicious activity on Maple Street.

with operating while under the influence. The subject, police say, was also charged with OUI the prior day.

5:57 p.m. Police received a report of two subjects sleeping in an apartment building hallway (Main Street) the prior night.

8:38 a.m. Deer tag issued on Lovell Road.

2:45 to 10:47 p.m.

These items appeared on the Fryeburg Police Department log (this is a partial listing): Monday, December 19

9:15 a.m. Welfare check on Pequawket Lane.

10:30 a.m. Welfare check on Charles Street.

11:30 a.m. Welfare check on Fish Street.

3:40 p.m. Fraud complaint on Mountain View Road.

11:35 p.m. Assist county deputy on Pequawket Trail in Brownfield.

Tuesday, December 20

12:22 a.m. Domestic disturbance on Main Street investigated.

9:30 a.m. 9-1-1 hangup call on Leach Road, unfounded.

11:29 a.m. Motor vehicle crash at the intersection of Main Street and Haley Town Road.

Wednesday, December 21

12:31 a.m. Traffic complaint on Main Street.

5:55 a.m. Warrant served at Main Street store, subject arrested.

9 a.m. Theft report on Portland Street.

4:52 p.m. Motor vehicle crash on West Fryeburg Road.

11:33 p.m. Suspicious activity at Maine Information Center on

Main Street.

Thursday, December 22

7:10 a.m. Assist Fryeburg Rescue on Oak Street.

11:35 a.m. Assist other agency on Maple Street.

4:15 p.m. 9-1-1 hangup call on West Fryeburg Road.

5:39 p.m. Motor vehicle crash on Main Street.

Friday, December 23

7:55 a.m. Non-reportable motor vehicle crash on Lovell Road.

8 a.m. Motor vehicle crash on Portland Street.

10:05 a.m. Theft report at Portland Street business.

3:28 p.m. 9-1-1 hang-up call on Haley Town Road.

Saturday, December 24 10:59 a.m. Assist State Police on Bickford Pond

Road.

2 p.m. Assist other agency on Corn Shop Road.

4:32 p.m. Traffic hazard on Fish Street.

5:47 p.m. Traffic complaint on Lovell Road, unfounded.

6:30 p.m. Animal complaint at the intersection of Main Street and Leach Road; hazard removed.

Sunday, December 25

3:58 a.m. Complaint on McNeil Road.

5:25 a.m. Disturbance on McNeil Road.

10:04 a.m. 9-1-1 hangup call on Trebor Road. Monday, December 26 6:45 a.m. Assist other agency on Hemlock Bridge Road.

Tuesday, December 27 6:38 a.m. Non-reportable

4:35 p.m. Suspicious activity on Pleasant Street. Wednesday, December 28

1:31 a.m. Assist Fryeburg Rescue on Charles Street.

6:24 p.m. Suspicious activity on Hemlock Bridge Road.

Thursday, December 29

8:30 a.m. Abandoned motor vehicle in Rite Aid parking area.

9:05 a.m. Request for fingerprinting.

10:15 a.m. Theft complaint at Porter Road business.

Friday, December 30

6:51 a.m. Assist Fryeburg Rescue on Lovewell Pond Road.

Seven motor vehicle stops (Bridgton Road 4, Main Street 3), seven warnings.

Saturday, December 31 4:26 a.m. Welfare check on Portland Street.

2:51 p.m. Assist Fryeburg Rescue on Portland Street.

7:14 p.m. Civil matter on Smith Street.

7:21 p.m. Traffic complaint on Main Street, unfounded.

7:27 p.m. Assist citizen on Cobb Street.

9:38 p.m. 9-1-1 hang-up call on Oxford Street.

Sunday, January 1 2:22 a.m. Assist other agency on Main Street in Bridgton.

NEW LISTING

SUCCESSFUL BOOK DRIVE — Many thanks to everyone who gave to the recent book campaign, sponsored by Bridgton Books and Team Long Run! Over 80 books were donated and will go to local Head Start students! Pictured are Justin Ward of Bridgton Books and Hilary Harper-Wilcoxen of Team Long Run.

Bridgton – RARE year-round home with access to private (shared by few) sandy bottom waterfront on Highland Lake a very short distance. Located between the town of Bridgton and Pleasant Mountain Ski Resort, this affordable lake access year round home is a wonderful opportunity to be on the lake without the lakefront taxes. Flexible living space on three levels. Covered porch overlooking level back yard and lake. Large garage with storage above. $379,000

Subs’ major impact lifts LR

By Wayne E. Rivet Staff Writer

Like most competitive high school athletes senior Jack Bueler and sophomore Aiden Roberts hoped to gain more prime time varsity game minutes.

They never complained about their roles

They worked hard, and looked for ways to improve their games.

They put their team first There was no whining or feeling sorry from themselves.

With starting center Jackson Libby out with a knee injury and guard Ian Brogan injured following a collision during last Thursday’s game against Traip Academy, Coach Ryan Martin went to Bueler and Roberts.

And, the duo responded in big ways.

Bueler made the most of his spot start at center, scoring 6 points and hauling down 6 rebounds, while Roberts was cool as a cucumber, knocking down a pair of 3-pointers to finish with 10 points to lead Lake Region to a 64-55 win over Traip.

“Jack knows he plays spot minutes and has a great attitude. He always works hard. He has a knack for the ball. He finds a way to get a rebound,” Coach Martin said. “Jack is a super tough kid. He took advantage of an opportunity to start. He probably played as many minutes today as the other games combined.”

The Lakers started quick

as Evan Duprey (9-of11 from the foul line and knocked down three 3-pointers en route to a game-high 22 points) and Brock Gibbons swished 3-pointers for an 8-3 lead. But, Traip took advantage of second shot chances in the paint and rallied for an 18-15 first quarter advantage.

Struggling to score and falling behind by eight, the Lakers needed a spark. Aiden

Roberts provided one, netting a trey and draining a tough baseline jumper. LR trailed 27-24 at the half.

“Aiden loves basketball. He is a great team guy. He brings as much energy as anyone does. He really gave us a spark in the second half. He’s a great guy to coach,” Coach Martin said. “The difference between Aiden and most high school kids is he came to us about a week ago and said he wanted to play JV. That is the reason why he came into this varsity game able to have confidence to shoot and score. He put himself in position to get his confidence up by playing JV the last couple of games. That’s the difference between Aiden and most high school kids. He’s a phenomenal kid who just loves to play basketball and wants to do whatever to help his team. He prepared for this opportunity today and he helped us get this win.”

Coach Martin felt his club lacked energy and failed to play with discipline in the half-court defense set, giving Traip too may second chance shots.

“We didn’t come out with the energy that I would have

Center of attention

Laker junior scores career best 32 pts

By Wayne E. Rivet Staff Writer

During the holiday break, Coach Doug Banks made a phone call to Brian Crockett, and asked for a favor.

“I know Brian has a very good relationship with Ava. I said, ‘Coach, I need your help.’ He asked what was going on, and I told him Ava needed to get stronger in the post,” Coach Banks recalled. “He worked with her, and tonight is a perfect example of her hearing it from someone besides my coaching staff and responding. Ava worked with someone outside of our program, put the effort in and it paid off. This is what happens when you put the effort in to help your teammates. At both ends of the court, Ava was a force.”

Indeed, the Laker junior center had a career night, scoring 32 points, hauling down 11 rebounds and blocking two shots in a 68-47 victory over York (1-4).

With the Lakers leading 32-14 at halftime, Crockett wandered over to the home team’s bench and asked Coach Banks if he could speak with Smith. His advice and encouragement were well received as Smith responded with 24 second half points.

“I reminded her to pay attention to the defense that she was seeing. I told her that she didn’t have to rush anything with the looks she was getting. We talked about how she had time to take a beat and think about how she can get strong to her right hand. We also talked about how if that extra beat gave York time to double her, then she could find an open teammate,” said Crockett, who coached Ava in rec league and then in middle school. “She has spent years putting the work in, and absolutely loves this game. I believe she has the skill set and athleticism to have many more nights like this. And, she is a great kid.”

The Lakers improved to 4-1.

“This was a good team win,” Coach Banks said.

Early, it appeared to be a Laker cakewalk. Smith won the opening tip, directing the swat to point guard

Johnson sets LR jump mark

Eight Lakers were free to compete in the USM New Year’s Relays. It is a relay meet by “name,” but the Lakers entered only one — the boys’ sprint medley relay.

Taylor Spearrin (28.9 for 200 meters), JayMar Canilao (30.1 for 200m)), Alex Freitas (59.9 for 400m), and Ezra Gronlund (2:21.2 for 800m) missed the school record by only “4 seconds or so,” LR Coach Mark Snow reported. The foursome combined for a time of 4:20.15.

Lake Region entered 12 individual events. Top

performance again was a new school record set by junior Campbell Johnson, who placed second in the high jump at 5-feet-2, and had some decent attempts at 5-4!

Freeport senior Avery Baker-Schlendering won the high jump at 5-feet-4.

The other Laker medal winner was Abigail Roberts, who placed second in the mile (5:49.78) and won the 800 meters. She led the 800 meters from the start and her time of 2:34.20 is a seasonal best. Abigail beat Thornton Academy’s Margaret Tripp (2:36.97)

(9.37) and her 200-meter PR was by 1 full second (35.77).

The top boy’s individual performance was Alex

Nice holiday return to Expo

PORTLAND — Due to COVID-19 and failing to crack the tournament field, several Lake Region hoopsters had never played on the Portland Expo hardwood.

Until Christmas break.

Last Thursday, the Lakers took part in the Holiday Shootout. With Margo Tremblay, Melissa Mayo and Ava Smith each scoring in double digits, the Lakers gift wrapped firstyear varsity coach Doug Banks with a 68-28 victory over Lincoln Academy.

It was an emotional morning for Banks, making his first appearance as head coach in the building that now bears the name of his late father, James A. Banks.

For Laker junior Kasey Johnson, the Expo was the place that her late grandfather, David Allen, was involved in many roles at this Christmas tourney (he also officiated many

Portland area football and basketball games). After he passed away in 1997, an award bearing his name was presented at the tourney.

Unfortunately, COVID canceled the tournament, the MPA changed how things now work, and the award is no longer given.

A long-time friend of Mr. Allen and Portland High School boys’ varsity coach Joe Russo now runs the holiday showcase, and was excited to see Kasey playing and Coach Banks working the sidelines. To mark the occasion, a group photo was taken — Coach Banks, Coach Russo, Kasey, her grandmother Karen Allen, Kasey’s mom Kelly Pond and uncle Jason Allen.

At halftime, Coach Russo started a shoot-out halftime competition pitting three Lakers — Kasey and teammates Melissa Mayo and Olivia England —

and Gorham’s Rachel Cummings (2:37.24).

Hanna Siebert had two personal records (PRs) in the meet. Her 55-meter PR was by a couple of tenths

RECORD SETTING DAY — After tying the school record in the high jump, Campbell Johnson broke the mark last week at USM.

MAKING HIS MINUTES

COUNT — With starting center Jackson Libby sidelined, senior Jack Bueler (#23) stepped in and played a key role.

HE MADE BIG SHOTS when his team needed it! Aiden Roberts gave the Lakers a big lift with timely shooting and tight defense in their win over Traip Academy last Thursday. (Rivet Photos)

NO ANSWER FOR AVA — LR junior center Ava Smith had a dominant night Tuesday, scoring 32 points and collecting 11 rebounds. (Rivet Photo)

TAKE-AWAY — LR defenders Abby Lavoie (#12) and Margo Tremblay (back) double up on York’s Nya Avery, and force a jump-ball situation.

Continuations

Nice return to the Expo

(Continued from Page 5A)

against a Lincoln Academy trio. The Lakers won the shoot-out and the game for a clean sweep in their Expo appearance.

“A really special connection and a great day for Kasey and Coach Banks,” Pond said.

Meanwhile, the Lakers

took control in the opening quarter against Lincoln Academy as Melissa Mayo sank a pair of 3-pointers and Ava Smith netted 7 points in a 17-3 surge. LR kept rolling to take a 28-13 lead into halftime, then put the game on ice with a 24-point explosion in the third as five players each

scored 4 points.

Tremblay paced the LR attack with 15 points, while Mayo finished with 14, and Smith added 14. Other scorers were Kaylee Maguire 6, Allison Bourgoin 5, Bella Smith 4, Jordan Blanton 4, Olivia England 3 (trey), Kasey Johnson 2 and Carly Dyer 1.

Lakers stomp Wildcats

Abby Lavoie, who bolted for a lay-up. LR scored the game’s first 19 points as senior Melissa Mayo knocked down a pair of 3-pointers. Mayo tallied 19 points, but it was her ability to handle York’s press and dish the ball inside for easy hoops that impressed her coach.

“Melissa makes this team go,” he said. “When we need a big shot or need to make a stop defensively, Melissa steps it up.”

Everything seemed to be clicking when Smith flicked a pass to sophomore Bella Smith for a lay-up to push the lead to 29-5. But, York found a rhythm late, going on a 9-3 run to close out the half. It could have been even closer, but the Wildcats struggled all night from the foul line, converting just 13 of 27 tries.

Sophomore guard Margo Tremblay put the Lakers back in the driver’s seat with a 3-pointer. Then, LR zeroed in on getting the ball inside the lane to Ava Smith. Three straight touches, three hoops, plus a 3-point play. While LR players showed nice touch in getting the ball inside to Smith, they also moved the ball with

precision, giving Mayo a clean look at a 3-pointer, which she swished for a 47-21 lead.

The big lead didn’t feel that big.

York closed out the quarter on a 13-4 run as the Lakers turned the ball over and took some quick, low percentage shots.

“It felt like a 4 or 5-point game. Rebounding has been a problem. I think they ball watch. When you are just watching the ball, you lose where your player is. As the ball comes off the rim, now you are reacting to it instead of boxing your player out. We have to work on that, for sure. Everybody has to box out, not just Ava. She had a heck of a game. We talked before the game that she had to control the boards,” Coach Banks said. “We need to be more disciplined, and do what they’ve been asked to do. When I called one of my timeouts, I asked them if I was making sense when I was talking. I am asking you to do something and then you go out and do something on your own. This is not how you play team basketball. As soon as they followed the plan, we go down and score — Bella (Smith) breaks the press,

LR Indoor Track

Freitas’ PR in the hurdles.

His time of 9.41 seconds provisionally qualified him for the state meet!

Taylor Spearrin broke his 400-meter PR by a few tenths (1:05.65). Tristan Cormier had a PR in the mile (5:49.45) and was on pace for another PR in the two-mile run until the last

few laps (12:35).

JayMar Canilao competed in his first ever track meet and finished well in his sections of the 55 meters and 200 meters.

Ezra Gronlund came close to his PR in the Open 800 meters (2:18.71) and then did run a PR 800-meter split in the sprint medley relay.

sends a great pass to Ava, who scores.”

Coach Banks impressed upon his troops that every good team makes a run, but the challenge was how the Lakers would respond.

“That’s a good team. But, we didn’t put gas on the fire. When they make a run, we can’t be the gas can. We can’t turn the ball over — that’s gas. We can’t crank up 26-foot shots – that’s gas. We’re young and we’re still learning game situations,” Coach Banks said.

Turnovers against the Wildcats’ press resulted in the Laker lead dwindling to 51-39. Rather than continue to wilt, Mayo and Bella

Smith rose to the challenge. Mayo nailed a 3-pointer, and Smith used her height and speed to beat the York heat with decisive dribbling and cuts to the hoop. She then dished the ball to Ava Smith, who converted.

“Bella does a lot of things they don’t show up on stat sheets. She is a team player. At times, you don’t

notice her on the floor, she just plays. She rebounds, makes great passes, and finishes at the rim strong — she doesn’t fade away,” Coach Banks said.

After a make and while walking to the foul line for a free throw, Ava told Bella, “That was the best pass!” Ava swished the foul shot with 3:38 left, and order

was restored. Ava closed out her career night (thus far) with a steal and a score, putting lots of smiles on the faces of LR coaches, teammates and fans.

For the Lakers, Bella Smith had 6 points and 8 rebounds, Abby Lavoie 2 points and 6 rebounds, and Margo Tremblay 9 points (3-of-4 from the foul line).

Roberts, Bueler make impact

(Continued from Page 5A)

liked, but the difference I am noticing with these guys that they are resilient players. Things didn’t go our way in the beginning, mainly due to our own fault. But, we bounced back and played a pretty good second half,” Coach Martin said.

LR broke a 34-34 tie as Roberts and Jacob Chadbourne (7-of-8 from the charity stripe to finish with 16 points) converted back-to-back 3 pointers and Duprey threaded a pass to a fast-cutting Gibbons (10 points) for a lay-up as the Lakers took a 44-42 lead into the fourth.

With 5:28 left, the Lakers finally took control of the game when Duprey was fouled behind the arc and swished three foul shots. Roberts grittiness in the lane paid off when he tipped in a missed shot. While some might spend time celebrating, the rookie guard hustled back on defense and

forced a turnover.

“It’s all energy. Guys that play with that much energy, they’re the ones that get those lucky plays. They deserve it. Aiden has a non-stop motor, and because of that, he gets his hands on the ball,” Coach Martin added.

It led to a Duprey 3-pointer. He followed that dagger with a nifty baseline drive and score.

“Evan has done a great job getting us into our offense, and as of late, has been more vocal. He’s dictating the tempo of the game, and bringing ball pressure on their guards. Evan’s game is growing day by day,” the coach said.

Chadbourne showed his toughness and agility with a pivot, spin and score with 1:17 left to give the Lakers a sevenpoint cushion.

“Jacob is definitely a competitor. He’s going to be — I think — the most athletic and strongest kid on the court each game we play. He has a ton

of basketball ability,” Coach Martin said. “He’s done a good job of staying out of foul trouble this season, and hopefully he continues that, because we’re much better when he’s playing.”

The win was a gritty one for the Lakers. As they approach the tough part of their schedule, Coach Martin knows his club needs to improve in a few areas and knows he will need

impact plays from role players like Aiden Roberts and Jack Bueler.

“I want to see us continue to improve our rebounding, and better at transition defense. Teams are scoring too many points on second chances or us falling asleep defensively. Teams will hit contested shots, but we need to eliminate some of the easy baskets we’re giving up,” he said.

Boys’ JV report

Lakers 71, Mountain Valley 57: The Lakers got out to a quick 24-11 start in Rumford as Jacoby Bardsley netted a pair of 3-pointers, scoring 11 of his game-high 22 points.

Bardsley connected for four 3-pointers, while Jacoby True made two jumpers from behind the arc to finish with 10 points. Noah Peterson scored in every quarter to finish with 16 points.

Scorers: Trevor Belanger 6, Stephen Stewart 4, Joe Deschenes 4, Jayden Meehan 3 Michael Clark 2, and Wildr Hart 2.

Lakers 58, Maranacook 38: Jacoby True sank four 3-pointers in the opening frame to get the Lakers out to a 20-11 lead, and made two more long-range jumpers to finish with a game-high 22 points. Jacoby Bardsley added 10 points while Noah Peterson chipped in 8, Jayden Meehan 6, Jackson Rinnocario 3, Raymond Tucker 3, Michael Clark 2, Joe Deschenes 2 and Wildr Hart 2.

Lakers 61, Poland 57: The Knights nearly erased a 10-point deficit entering the fourth quarter, but Jacoby Bardsley scored 7 of his 22 points in the final stanza, and Jacoby True went 5-of-6 from the foul line as the Lakers pulled out the victory. True finished with 13 points, while Noah Peterson also added 13, which included a pair of 3-pointers in the second quarter as the Lakers put up 24 points to build a 34-25 halftime lead.

Trevor Belanger and Wildr Hart each contributed 4 points, while Glynn Ross had 2 and Matt Plummer 1.

TOUGH TO FIND A PASSING LANE — York’s Emily Estes found herself with little room to operate as Laker defenders Melissa Mayo (#3) and Bella Smith (#2) close in fast. (Rivet Photo)

& Comment

In Ye Olden Times

by Michael Davis BHS Assistant Director

The Treasure of Pleasant Mt.

Howdy neighbor!

Over the holidays, I had occasion to stop into the Magic Lantern Theater on a gift-giving spree, and in the lobby was I impressed to notice a striking case of rare mineral specimens, on exhibit in our town courtesy of the Maine Mineral and Gem Museum in Bethel, with whom the Magic Lantern’s 4H department is cooperating.

The appearance in this collection of a sizable specimen of amethyst in quartz, taken from the Saltman prospect in our neighboring town of Sweden, recalls to mind the local discoveries of amethyst made here in Bridgton and Denmark on the slopes of Pleasant Mountain in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Such amethyst as is found in our immediate vicinity, occurring naturally in crystals of small to medium size typically in strata of quartz or schist, is remarkable for the fact that owing to its intense color our local amethyst has long been valued by mineralogists and jewelers alike as ranking among the highest quality exemplars of this gemstone of any known in all the world, rivalling even the choicest of Russian amethyst. Given the singular opportunity provided to our readers by the Magic Lantern’s exhibit of so similar a species of gemstone, it is now thought advantageous to here offer a brief history of our own local amethysts, in so far as facts concerning them can be sifted from the many traditional legends surrounding the circumstance of their uncovering.

Not-So-Ordinary Rock Pigeons

Driving along Main Street in our town can require concentration. Between watching for vehicle traffic, people crossing the street, and even a car door occasionally being flung out in the path of a passing car, it is not a good time for bird watching.

All that changes if I walk, and look around, and that is when I notice the Pigeons. They flutter from rooftop to rooftop, perch along the highest structures, or fly up the hill to perch in the trees. When we moved here more than 35 years ago, it was not unusual to see a hundred or more Pigeons perched along the ridge line of historic buildings near the main intersection, where they had a good view of their surroundings and where we could see them as we waited for the traffic light to turn green. Their population has declined since then, along Main Street and throughout North America, where the North American Breeding Bird Survey has reported a 46% decline between 1966 and 2015.

Pigeons have been on Earth for a very long time, and different kinds of Pigeons and Doves can be found around the world. In the early 1600s, colonists brought them here from Europe. In England, Charles Darwin kept and bred Pigeons as part of his study of evolution, and images of Pigeons have been found in Egyptian hieroglyphic records from 5,000 years ago. Throughout history, humans domesticated Pigeons, but many of these highly adaptable birds fled captivity and became feral. The birds we see

Bird Watch

by Jean Preis BN Columnist

here, that we call Pigeons, are officially known as Rock Pigeons, although older field guides sometimes show other outdated names. Along with Mourning Doves, they are part of a large family, Columbidae. Rock Pigeons live and breed from Alaska, throughout North, Central, and South America, the Caribbean Islands, and as far south as Tierra del Fuego. Typical plumage consists of a gray back, two black wing bars, a blue-gray head, and some purple and green iridescence on the neck.

Historically, Rock Pigeons nested on cliffs or high rock ledges, on a flat surface, under cover. In modern times, they have found various architectural features of tall buildings, as well as the supports under bridges, to be a good substitute. The male delivers materials such as sticks, grasses, roots, to his mate, who assembles them around herself into a loose nest. After the chicks hatch, the parents

PIGEONS, Page 2B

The Christmas Bird Count

The first discovery of amethyst on Pleasant Mountain, of which we have any report, comes from the family of Caleb Warren, early owner of the mountain and proprietor of the first Mt. Pleasant House, that olden hotel which once stood atop its highest peak. Family legend tells that in 1848, while teaming a yoke of oxen down the mountainside during logging season, the timber-sled of Caleb’s son Edwin struck and caught against a deposit of rocks, which had been revealed beneath the butt end of an uprooted tree. In attempting to maneuver the sled free of the rocks, there was dislodged a brilliant stone which went hurtling down the slope. Seeing a flash of purple in the descending stone, the boy ran to retrieve it and found it to be a large piece of amethyst, which was promptly taken back to the hotel and put to use as, of all things, a door-stop. This large crystal was later sold, together with the house and much of the mountain, to Joseph S. Sargent in 1850, and it remained in the lobby of the hotel until the winter of 1860 at which time the house and its contents were destroyed by fire. Though abandoned at this time and only the haunt of vagrants, the stone was evidently recognized for its worth and thrown out into the snow by the fleeing tenants, where it was later re-discovered by the Warrens in the spring after they came to view the destruction of the hotel. Buying back the mountain around this time, the first and largest of the Pleasant Mountain amethysts was taken by the Warrens back to their

PLEASANT MT., Page 6B

DEER DINNER What would a deer made out of holiday lights eat? It might consume flowers made of lights. This woodland deer dines on pink and yellow tulips that light up in a display called Winter Wonders in Eliot. (De Busk Photo)

By Mary Jewett Guest Columnist

The 2022 Christmas Bird Count took place on Dec. 27 with 35 awesome volunteers. The count takes place in a 15-mile diameter circle. Our circle is called the Sweden Circle, the center of which is located in the north basin of Moose Pond. Over the course of the day, we counted 2,428 birds and 45 different species. These are the unofficial numbers, as the data won’t be finalized until it is submitted to the National Audubon Society.

Each year, a group of volunteers gets together to count the birds in a set geographic circle in our community. This is an international citizen science program taking place in 21 countries. The Christmas Bird Count was started at the turn of the last century by ornithologist Frank M. Chapman, in part to counteract another tradition, the Christmas “Side Hunt.” The goal of the side hunt was to kill as many feathered and furred animals as possible. So yeah, some people decided to start a new tradition to help conserve bird populations.

This year was the 123rd annual CBC and over the last century we have amassed an incredible amount of data, helping scientists and conservationists track the health of different bird species.

Without further ado, here is the list of species seen on count day, starting with the most abundant:

Black-capped Chickadee (664!), Mallard, Wild Turkey, Tufted Titmouse, American Goldfinch, Mourning Dove, European Starling, Blue Jay, American Crow, Whitebreasted Nuthatch, Downy Woodpecker, Northern Cardinal ,House Sparrow, Red-breasted Nuthatch, Hairy Woodpecker, Dark-eyed Junco, Hooded Merganser, Common Raven,

Lettersa former guy rally with the corpse of Rush Limbaugh on display in effigy on stage.

Toxic Masculinity

To The Editor:

“Toxic Masculinity” (TM) is all over the news these days. I decided to learn what it meant and where the term came from, and found the following — I’ll be Siri for you: TM is an aspect of certain hegemonic behaviors and a set of male role behaviors sociologists associate with societal destruction, harm to its perpetrators themselves, greed, homophobia, misogyny, sexual assault, domestic violence, bullying, risky behaviors such as substance use, dysfunctional relationships, and last but not least, aggression and violent domination — all the makings of a CPAC convention held at

I posit that this destructive phenomenon has taken over not just the fringe extremist hate groups in this and other democracies, but the Grand Old Party itself. (Darrow, O. & Hertner, I. (2019) “Interpreting toxic masculinity in political parties: A framework for analysis.” https://journals. sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/ 1354068819887591). A study of increased toxic masculinity traits in right wing extremist populist parties in both the U.K. and Germany respectively. This is interesting given the recent (12/7) armed plot on the part of some whack-adoodle Qanon types to violently take over the German Reichstag, take hostage lawmakers within and execute the chancellor. Sounds scarily reminiscent of the coup attempt Jan. 6, does it not? Who could not for-

Earth Notes

“Earth Notes” is an outgrowth of a deep ecology discussion group. Writers reflect a delight in, and concern for, the earth and are individually responsible for opinions and information.

Community members are invited to submit articles.

American Tree Sparrow, Rock Pigeon, Pine Grosbeak, American Robin, Evening Grosbeak, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Common Redpoll, Common Goldeneye, Eastern Bluebird, Bald Eagle, Snow Bunting, Pileated Woodpecker, Golden-crowned Kinglet, Ruffed Grouse, Common Loon, Bufflehead, Black Duck, Sharp-shinned Hawk, Brown Creeper, House Finch, Common Merganser, Cooper’s Hawk, Northern Goshawk (seen during count week, not the day of), Red-tailed Hawk, Barred Owl, Song Sparrow, Pine Siskin, and a lonely Northern Mockingbird found in Fryeburg.

I am very grateful to all of our volunteers. This year, we had 10 households counting at their feeders, and 25 in the field, split up between nine routes. The weather cooperated, and the recent warmth allowed for a nice amount of open water, netting us uncommon waterfowl species. All field teams reported low bird seed in feeders, the probable cause of lower numbers than last year (2,428 vs 2,606). But many factors can impact numbers including weather, food availability, road conditions, and number of volunteers.

BIRD COUNT, Page 2B

get the kidnapping attempts on Democratic lawmakers Governor Gretchen Whitmer, (MI) and more recently Senator Nancy Pelosi (CA). A disturbing pattern arises here, and more disturbing yet is the lack of condemnation of these acts of barbarity — here in the United States — on the part of the myopic GOP leadership and Fox “News” squirrel-brain altered party members down the food chain.

Bias, Prejudice, and Racism

To The Editor: Progressives (Socialists by another name) tell us that we can attain heaven on earth. All we need do is eradicate mankind’s biases, prejudices and racism.

Unfortunately, Utopian theories require that language be tailored to support their narrow biases. Then to protect their prejudice, they must exclude language that disagrees or questions their Utopian ideals. Socialists (Progressives) know that there are individuals in society that cannot be re-educated enough to be cured of their biases, prejudices, or racism. They of course will be marginalized or eliminated.

Definitions — Bias: (broad) a particular tendency, inclination, feeling, or opinion. Any choice we make is biased for or against something. However, Communists (Socialists by another name) use a narrow and restrictive definition of bias: unreasonably hostile feelings or opinions about a social or racial group. Utopians cannot allow anything but their narrow view to exist and disagreement

LIGHTS twinkle from the slopes of Pleasant Mountain as the resort opened up for night skiing during the holidays. (Photo by Pam Ward)

Jon St. Laurent Lovell

Not-So-Ordinary Rock Pigeons

do not remove the fecal matter, which accumulates, dries, and acts as a sort of glue or cement to strengthen the nest. Later, subsequent nests may be built on top, stuck together in the same way. Adults are primarily seedeaters, but the young are fed crop milk, a nutritious, very high protein secretion that consists of fluid-filled blood cells sloughed off from the lining of the parent’s crop.

Pigeons are not migratory, and are well known for their homing ability, returning to their roost from long distances. This may have developed because their cliff-side roosts and nest sites were far from fields where foods such as seeds, grains, and fruits were available. They navigate by the position of the sun, by sensing the earth’s magnetic fields, and possibly by olfactory clues and low frequency sounds.

Bird Count

If you would like to volunteer for the count this year please contact me at mary.jewett@gmail.com. Feeder counters in the circle are especially important, as they often attract birds that our field volunteers cannot see from the road. The more eyes we have out there the more accurate count we can get of our wintering species.

This weekend, I am heading off to visit another region where the Christmas Bird Count took place this year. While I am proud of our 45 species this year (five more than last year!), the Mindo-Tandayapa, Pichincha region in Ecuador counted 389, winning the bragging rights of the highest count in the world. I may not see all 389 over the next two weeks, but I’m going to try really hard.

Thanks again to all of our wonderful volunteers, some new and many having participated for decades. Thank you to our community members who keep their feeders full. My biggest thanks of all goes to Jean Preis, who was the compiler for our Sweden Circle for 30 years. She has been a wonderful mentor as I take on this role, and I am grateful for her wisdom and experience.

Mary Jewett is an educator and invasives prevention director for Lakes Environmental Association.

During WWI and WWII, the U.S. Army relied upon Pigeons’ homing ability to carry messages. They are highly intelligent birds, and a few years ago, Pigeons at the University of Iowa were trained to distinguish between images of mammograms that showed malignancies and those that did not. Using a system of pressing a yellow or a blue button, and getting a reward for correct answers, after two weeks of training the birds chose the correct image 85% of the time. Although the birds did not know what the images represented, their keen eyesight, and ability to discern subtle changes in an image were key. When multiple Pigeons responded to the same image the results were highly consistent, with an accuracy of more than 99%.

Bird watching while driving along our Main Street may be risky, but walking presents a good opportunity to watch for, and appreciate, our local Rock Pigeons.

More information can be found at: National Geographic Field Guide to the Birds of North America; www.allaboutbirds.org; www.birdsoftheworld.org; The Birder’s Handbook, by Erlich, Dobkin, and Wheye; Bird Watcher’s Digest, July/August ’19 issue, article by Hank Weber, “Paging Doctor Pigeon.”

Neil R. Bacheldor

SEBAGO — Neil R. Bacheldor, 71, died Wednesday, December 7, 2022, at the Androscoggin Hospice House in Auburn. He was born December 20, 1950, in Portland, a son of Warren and Rosabell (Dingley) Bacheldor.

Neil grew up in Sebago and attended local schools. He loved hunting and fishing and was dedicated to his former business, Bacheldor Electronics, formerly located in Westbrook.

In addition to his father Neil was predeceased by two brothers, Keith and Wayne Bacheldor. In addition to his mother Neil, is survived by his sisters, Pamela Golden, and Patricia Beavers; and his children, Lonnie, Kevin, Laura, Alicia and Kelley.

A graveside service will be announced in the spring at Lakeside Cemetery, Sebago. To express condolences or to participate in Neil’s online tribute please visit www.DolbyBlaisSegee.com.

Warren’s Florist

Abigail M. Metcalf

HARRISON — Abigail M. (Sargent) Metcalf, 86, passed away unexpectedly on December 26, 2022 at the Stephens Memorial Hospital with her family by her side.

She was born June 11, 1936, in Bangor and was predeceased by her parents Milford and Melissa (Hersey) Sargent, her longtime partner Frank Heath, and brother Howard Sargent.

Abigail worked as a laborer for Vulcan Electric Company in Kezar Falls 40+ years before she retired. Her greatest joy was spending time with her family and friends. She also enjoyed, crocheting, quilting and cooking for her family.

She leaves cherishing her memories of her loving children: Patricia Hayes and partner Ray Austin, Michael Metcalf and partner Diane Zalenski, Carol Wyman and husband Tom, sister Barbara Bennett and husband Joseph, father of her children, Roger Metcalf, along with a plethora of grandchildren, numerous great-grandchildren, cousins, nieces and nephews.

In keeping with Abigail’s wishes the family will hold a graveside service at the Lutheran Village Cemetery in Harrison in the spring. In lieu of flowers donations can be sent to: Papa’s Boots, c/o Bolster’s Mills United Methodist Church, PO Box 859, Harrison, ME 04040.

Arrangements are under the care of Chandler Funeral Homes and Cremation Services 45 Main Street South Paris. To make an online condolence please visit www.chandlerfunerals.com

Reginald N. Qualey

CASCO — Reginald Nutting Qualey, born in Cooks Mills, Casco, passed at the age of 95 on Friday, Dec. 23, 2022.

Mr. Qualey was an extremely humble man. With that said, we simply remind all he is likely best known for his devotion to family, his woodworking talents, his sense of humor, serving his country in World War II, and teaching by example, how to love and treat your fellow man.

His surviving family misses him dearly but rejoices being part of his life.

Condolences and tributes may be shared with his family at www.hallfuneralhome.net.

William Morrisseau

William Leo Morrisseau died Saturday, Dec. 17, 2022, at home following a long, painful, and stressful battle with health conditions. He was 85 years old.

04009

William was a proud veteran of the United States Air Force (USAF), where he served five years in the SAC working on B52s and KC135s. It was during this time that he met his future wife, Ann.

Upon separation from the USAF, William moved with his parents to Alaska and worked as a photographer for Alaska Department of Fish and Game.

In 1965, after a storybook long-distance relationship, Bill traveled to Miami, Fla., and married Ann. They moved to California, where he attended the Brooks Institute of Photography, which was the first step toward ultimately earning a bachelor’s degree in 1970.

In 1979, while on a summer-long family trip driving cross country and back, Bill and Ann fell in love with Bridgton, and moved here the following year.

Bill is well known in the community for his dedication to church and as the owner of a small handyman business. He also displayed his love for this community through his many years as the Crossing Guard by Black Horse Tavern, and by being a member of the Fire Department as a Safety Officer, and Emergency Management Director. In 2018, Bill received the Randy King Award in recognition of long and faithful service to the BFD and the citizens of Bridgton. “Your unselfish dedication is the very best of what the word volunteer means.”

Legals

Public Notice

TOWN OF NAPLES

Select Board, Planning Board, and Ordinance Review Committee Workshop

Select Board, Planning Board, and Ordinance Review Committee Workshop to discuss a proposed change to the Naples Land Use Ordinance that would allow Event Venues/Wedding Barns in the Rural Zone.

The workshop will be held at 6 p.m., Wednesday, January 11, 2023, in the Naples Town Office located at 15 Village Green Lane.

The meeting is open to the public. 2T52

Public Notice

TOWN OF NAPLES

Planning Board Meeting

The Naples Planning Board will hold a meeting on Tuesday, January 17, 2023. The meeting will be in person at the Naples Town Hall Board Room located at 15 Village Green Lane starting at 6 p.m. On the Agenda:

1. Old Business

An application for a modification to a site plan approved in 1998 for Double Eagle Properties, LLC to replace single wide mobile homes with double wide mobile homes (Tax Map R03, Lot 49B)

The signing of a plot plan for a modification to a site plan approved in 1989 for the property owned by Karen Swaim to modify her property lines (Tax Map R04, Lot 23-6)

Plans may be viewed online at www.townofnaples.org

The public is welcome to attend the meeting. Any questions or concerns please contact codeoffice@ townofnaples.org 2T1

PUBLIC NOTICE

Town of Waterford PLANNING BOARD

The Waterford Planning Board will hold a public hearing at the Waterford Town Office on January 18, 2023, at 6:30 p.m. to discuss the Morse Homestead Subdivision on the corner of Hunts Corner Road and Bisbee Town Road. Public welcome.

Information regarding the Morse Homestead Subdivision application is available at the Waterford Town Office. 2T52

FORM B

He retired as Civil Emergency Preparedness Director in 2010 after almost 11 years of service. Then Bridgton Town Manager Mitch Berkowitz said, “Bill has served our community faithfully and unselfishly. He has earned my respect and that of our staff as he completed the tasks that at times seemed more administrative than relevant, but did so knowing it was for the greater good.”

Bill and Ann were also dedicated members of the Red Cross, and were integral parts in the support provided during the Ice Storm in 1998.

Bill is survived by his wife of 57 years, Ann; his sister Evelyn; son Jamie; two granddaughters, and many nieces and nephews, and their families.

He was predeceased by his parents, Bernice and Leo; and daughters Ana and Amy.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 7, at St. Joseph Church on South High Street in Bridgton.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Camp Sunshine, St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, or the Bridgton Firefighters Association.

Arrangements by Hall Funeral Home of Casco.

PUBLIC NOTICE:

NOTICE OF INTENT TO FILE

Please take notice that Daisy Cutter Group, LLC, P.O. Box 37, Harrison, Maine 04040, c/o James Shaw, P.O. Box 37, Harrison, Maine 04040, Phone: 978-504-1358

is intending to file a Site Location of Development permit application with the Maine Department of Environmental Protection pursuant to the provisions of 38 M.R.S.A. §§ 481 thru 490 on or about January 3, 2023.

The application is for Kellsie Rae Subdivision – 7 Lot Single Family Residential Subdivision at the following location: Intersection of Naples Road and Buck Road in Harrison, Maine.

A request for a public hearing or a request that the Board of Environmental Protection assume jurisdiction over this application must be received by the Department in writing, no later than 20 days after the application is found by the Department to be complete and is accepted for processing. A public hearing may or may not be held at the discretion of the Commissioner or Board of Environmental Protection.

Public comment on the application will be accepted throughout the processing of the application.

The application will be filed for public inspection at the Department of Environmental Protection’s office in Portland during normal working hours. A copy of the application may also be seen at the municipal offices in Harrison, Maine.

Written public comments may be sent to the regional office in Portland, where the application is filed for public inspection: MDEP, Southern Maine Regional Office, 312 Canco Road, Portland, Maine 04103 1T1

This week’s game solutions

RUFFED GROUSE were seen by Leigh Hayes and Kathy Banks during the Christmas Bird Count.

(Continued

Suzanna C. Willey

CASCO — Suzanna Carol (Bigonski) Willey passed away on December 29, 2022.

She was born on November 1, 1946, to Stephen Bigonski and Eleanor Allen.

She married Richard Willey on October 16, 1965.

Sue was a very loving mother who always cared about the well being of others. She enjoyed the many adventures taken with her grandkids. She loved working in her flower gardens and was always happy for spring bloom. For a good number of years she enjoyed the peace and quiet of Moxie Lake. In past years she was an active member of the Bridgton Road Alliance Church. She very much enjoyed the sermons and company of Pastor Lee Nanfelt and his family.

She was predeceased by their infant daughter, Deana.

Surviving are her husband of 57 years; their sons, Rick, Ronald and his wife Shelly, James and his wife Sally and their daughter Marybeth; eight grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

A graveside service will be held at a later date. Condolences and tributes may be shared with Suzanna’s family at www.hallfuneralhome.net

Edward Ryan

Edward Ryan died on December 28, 2022, of pneumonia brought on by COVID-19. He was 91. Born on November 8, 1931, he grew up in Connecticut and received degrees from the University of Connecticut. His lifelong interest in how things work initially prompted him to study engineering. He soon changed direction to pursue history and education, envisioning a career working with people rather than things.

Ed began his career teaching English in Suffield, Conn. A promotion to assistant principal launched his journey in education administration and he was sponsored to a doctoral program at Harvard University. He loved children and sought to build environments that nurture their curiosity. While at Harvard, the town of Harvard, Mass., hired him as principal where he advocated some non-traditional ideas including that after school should be free from homework to allow plenty of time for kids to play and explore their creativity.

In 1970, Ed moved to Stowe and became Chief of Field Services for the State of Vermont. He worked with a cohort of educators to upgrade the state’s education. Traveling to every town, he ensured children were well nourished, provided safe learning facilities, and had access to modern materials and qualified teachers. Over the next 20 years, Vermont soared to one of the highest in the nation in terms of the quality of education and the outcomes secured by the state’s children.

Ed retired in 1990 to Lovell, Maine. Soon he was at the helm of the local school board where he served for fifteen years. He also joined the planning board where he helped write Lovell’s zoning ordinances. He retired from volunteer activities in 2019.

While in Suffield, Ed met and soon married Judith Martinson, a talented athlete with a quick wit, who shared his deep moral convictions. For 61 years, they supported one another and raised two children. Judy loved to entertain and introduced Ed to many new friends. They traveled to Europe several times and enjoyed exploring remote parts of Maine and Canada. On their 60th anniversary, Ed expressed his profound love for Judy and his deep gratitude that she had come into his life.

Ed was a true gentleman, charming, and witty. He was well-read and in conversation could provide detailed historical context or quote lines from Shakespeare or Frost or an Irish ballad with equal ease. His primary hobby was the old farmhouse he and Judy bought in 1965 in Lovell. He also enjoyed making maple syrup, cross-country skiing, walking on country roads, and eating pie.

Ed leaves his wife Judy Ryan, daughter Martha Ryan, and son Cullen Ryan. He also leaves grandchildren Keelia and Camden Ryan, Vayl Sorensen, son-in-law Neal Sorensen, and almost daughter-in-law Beth Sellers. A memorial service will be held in Lovell at 11 a.m. on May 6, 2023, at Lovell United Church of Christ. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that gifts in Ed’s honor be made to Community Housing of Maine. www.chomhousing.org

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.directcremationofmaine.com

with their biases is declared misinformation.

Prejudice: (broad) any preconceived opinion or feeling, either favorable or unfavorable. Socialists however, use a narrow and restrictive definition

Obituary Policy

To run at no charge, The News will include: who the person was predeceased by (i.e. parents, siblings, spouse, children), or survived by (i.e. spouse or significant other, children, and parents). Names of spouses of surviving relatives will not be included.

Names of grandchildren will not be included, but the number of grandchildren or nephews and nieces will be used. If the deceased individual’s only connection to the area is a nephew, niece or grandchild, that person will be listed by name. Obituaries to run “as written” are paid obituaries, a price quote and proof will be provided. The News reserves the right to edit all obituaries including length if necessary.

The Bridgton News P.O. Box 244, 118 Main St. Bridgton, ME 04009 tel. 207-647-2851 | fax 207-647-5001 e-mail: bnews@roadrunner.com

of prejudice: unreasonable feelings, opinions, or attitudes, especially of a hostile nature, regarding an ethnic, racial, social, or religious group. As in bias, Utopians cannot tolerate disagreement with their prejudices and declare them disinformation.

Racism: (broad) prejudice, discrimination, or antagonism by an individual, community, or insti -

Dennis L. Brown

LISBON — Dennis L. Brown, 81, passed away on December 31, 2022, at The Lamp Memory Care Center in Lisbon.

Dennis’s life has always been one of learning, starting from a chemistry set in his childhood bedroom and on to a bachelor’s of science degree from University of Maine at Orono and two master’s degrees (University of Southern Maine and The University of the South, Sewanee). He spent most of his career teaching chemistry, earth science, and physics at Lake Region High School in Naples, with stints on either side at Maine Central Institute, Bangor High School and Oxford Hills Comprehensive High School.

In addition to teaching, he also worked as a ranger at Sebago Lake State Park and as the park manager at Colonial Pemaquid State Historic Site. His role as interpretive ranger at Sebago showcased his love of learning as he wanted to be able to identify every tree, shrub, flower, moss, lichen, fungus, and animal scat for the nature walks he conducted. He’d wake his children up at midnight to learn the constellations with him for his star parties. He was also an avid outdoorsman, loving to hunt and fish with his family and beagles. Mineral collecting was another hobby that included children and grandchildren.

His wife Dale Brown, his brother Myles Brown, his daughter Pamela Brown Perry and her husband Craig Perry, son Daniel Brown and his wife Mary Brown, grandchildren Lauren Brown and her husband Daniele Amondolini, Allison Brown Kenney and her husband Ryan Kenney, Mitchell Perry and his husband Jonian Grosha, Sydney Perry and her partner Raiden Joyner, and great-granddaughter Harper Kenney will always carry his love for family and learning in their heart.

In keeping with Dennis’s wishes, all services are private and at the convenience of the family; in lieu of flowers those wishing may make a donation in Dennis’s memory to Bridgton Scholarship Foundation, c/o Peter Oberg, 132 Main St., Bridgton ME 04009.

Arrangements are under the care of Chandler Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 8 Elm Street, Bridgton. To make an online condolence please visit www.chandlerfunerals.com

Roger A. Dunn

DENMARK — Proud to be a Mainer, Roger A. Dunn was the first born of Charles H. Dunn and Marilyn J. Dunn of Brownfield, on December 5, 1952. Humorous, kind, and wonderfully complex, at the age of 70, on December 18, 2022, Roger died unexpectedly in Portland.

Roger spent his early childhood on his grandparents’ farm in Brownfield owned by Roger C. Dunn and Olive H. Dunn.

Roger would credit growing up on the family farm for his love of outdoor exploration and his unwavering work ethic. At the age of 12, Roger moved with his family to Burlington, Vt. There he continued to pursue his passions for gardening, animals, hunting, and fishing and returned to Maine as often as possible. Roger was most at home with his hands in the soil nurturing plants or with his foot on the gas pedal of something engine driven, be it a car, truck, motorcycle, or tractor.

In Vermont, he met his wife, Suzanne Richard, and together they raised their two children Allan and Jennifer. Roger’s children brought him great pride and joy and providing for his family was forever foremost. Although Roger by nature was content spending time alone, he sought the close company of friends and family.

Cooking was a joy for Roger particularly if the ingredients were harvested from his own garden. Sitting down to a meal prepared by Roger, one could taste the love. Like the nurturing of plants, Roger cultivated close relationships. His sense of humor and ability to spin a story drew people to him. Roger’s artistic talent evolved into drafting and eventually he designed and installed fire protection systems. At the height of his career, Roger co-owned and operated Advance Sprinkler Systems, Inc., a fire protection company in Williston, Vermont. The close-knit relationships of coworkers and the construction community sustained Roger. After retiring in 2016, Roger moved back to Maine happily immersing himself in his Denmark surroundings, rediscovering his beloved aunts and cousins, and making new friends. Roger had come full circle.

Roger is survived by his wife Suzanne Richard of 35 years of marriage; their two children Allan Dunn of Denmark, and Jennifer Dunn and Skylar Macarthy of Minneapolis, Minn.; his mother Marilyn Dunn of Essex Junction, Vt.; his siblings Gayle and Bert Reid of Vale, N.C.; Dana and Kathy Dunn of Seymour, Tenn.; Dawna and Tim Brisson of Williston, Vt; and numerous nieces and nephews. A celebration of Roger’s life will be planned for a future date.

tution against a person or people on the basis of their membership in a particular racial or ethnic group. However, Progressives use a narrow definition that brooks no divergence from orthodoxy: the belief that white people are oppressors and non-white people are oppressed. If you disagree you are a racist and if you are white, whether you agree or disagree, you are a racist.

This Progressive orthodoxy is actually the classic definition of racism: bias and prejudice solely based on the color of one’s skin with no consideration for the content of one’s character (a tip of the hat to the Reverend Martin L. King, Jr.). The People’s rights are constantly violated by Progressive bias, prejudice, and racism.

Jock MacGregor Sebago

Robert W. Holtby

Robert W. Holtby was born on New Years Eve in 1949 and passed on Christmas morning 2022. He was born in Geneva N.Y., and raised there by his mother Eunice Holtby along with his brothers Thomas and Steven Holtby. After graduating from DeSales High School he joined the Army and was stationed in Texas and then studied geology at UTEP. He met and married Donna Cormier in El Paso and they moved to Maine in 1977, where he spent so much time hiking, camping, canoeing down the Saco with his family. He was a member of the North Fryeburg Fire Department and loved working at the chicken barbecue applying his “secret sauce.” He loved everything about Maine life.

Bob, Bobby, Hopy, Hopeless, Papa. He was a hard working carpenter by trade who was rich in love, family, and friendship but was terrible at poker and at pool. He was the most loyal fan of the worst beer ever canned, Old Milwaukee, and always joked that he drank it because he never had to share it with anyone

He loved playing, hunting, snowmobiling, playing cards and most of all shooting the sh*t with all of his friends. He never missed a Thursday night softball game at Westaways, even when he could no longer play he was there to loudly “cheer” on the other players. He loved all New York teams, especially the Yankees and loved to talk trash about the Red Sox. He was embarrassing to sit with at Fenway Park.

He was quick to laugh and loved making other people laugh, he often thought he was the funniest person around, even if he was the only one who thought that. He was proud to be Italian and loved making his own sauce and gnocchi to share with others. He was always so much fun, swimming, sledding, playing games and puzzles and tickling us kids until we begged for mercy. He loved all of our pets and all of our friends like they were his own children.

He was Papa to his son Ryan Proctor (and favorite daughter-in-law Kathy), his daughters, Sara (and favorite son-in-law Peter), Laura, and Katherine Holtby, to his son Timothy who passed too soon after entering the world, Papa to Nicholas and Nicole Leblanc and to his six grandsons, Zach, Dylan, Jake, Kaleb, Bentley and Beckett, all of whom he loved so much. He was a best friend and partner to Sharon Leblanc for the last 15 years. He loved nothing more than sitting on the deck overlooking Moose Pond, doing the crossword puzzle and asking “I wonder what all the poor people are doing today” with a laugh.

There will be a private gathering in the spring. In his memory please consider a donation to Denmark Rescue or to Jen’s Friends Cancer Foundation.

Shirley A. Jennings

Shirley A. (Anderson) Jennings, 93 passed away on Monday, December 26, 2022, at the Bella Point Long Term Care Facility in Bridgton with her loving husband by her side. She was born in Portland, the daughter of the late Winslow and Winnie (Wilson) Anderson.

She spent her childhood in Winter Park, Fla., and summers in North Bridgton. She attended Walla Walla High School in Washington State graduating from there and later from Whitman College, also in Walla Walla in 1950. After college she attended the Fletcher School of International Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University where she met her husband, Theodore Jennings. She spent a year at the University of Bern (Switzerland) then returned to the U.S. working in Washington D.C. for the U.S. government.

In 1955, Shirley and Ted were married in Washington, D.C. The couple lived and worked in Japan, Brazil and Europe for several years, before settling in Ridgewood, N.J., for many years.

Shirley was an avid bridge player and enjoyed traveling the world at every opportunity. She served as an officer for several organizations in Ridgewood N.J., including the Ridgewood Women’s Club and for the Sebago Long Lake Chamber Music in Bridgton.

Shirley was a loving wife and mother whose greatest joy was spending time with her family and friends. She is survived by, and will be warmly remembered by her devoted husband Theodore Jennings, her son Mark Jennings, daughters Susan Jennings and Margaret Muench along with their husbands Rupert Grover and Erik Muench, and four grandchildren, Jeremy Muench and Madeline Muench Payne (along with her husband Matthew), Jameson (along with his wife Danielle) and Alison Corey.

In keeping with Shirley’s wishes there will be no services. Burial will take place at the North Bridgton cemetery in the spring of 2023. Donations in Shirley’s memory may be sent to Deertrees Theatre, 156 Deertrees Road, Harrison ME 04040 or at www.deertrees-threatre.org

Arrangements are under the care of Chandler Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 8 Elm St Bridgton. To make an online condolence please visit www.chandlerfunerals.com

Storybook Walk

(Continued from Page 5B)

DOG!

From underground to mountain peak, Jan Brett has filled this story with eye-catching detail. With each page turn, a new challenge awaits Treva, as she

Classified Advertising

BN 1

ATTENTION

Classified line ads are now posted on our website at NO EXTRA CHARGE! www.bridgton.com

HELP WANTED

MSAD72 SCHOOL DISTRICT (EOE) in Fryeburg, Maine has immediate openings: Alpine ski team coach, custodians, van drivers, bus drivers, bus aides, substitutes. Visit www.msad72.org, call 207-935-2600 or pick up an application today at Door #10, 25 Molly Ockett Drive, Fryeburg, ME tf45

FUTURE LEADERS WANTED — Q-Team Tree Service in Naples. Visit Q-Team.com/benefits for info. tf51

CARPENTER/CARPENTERS

HELPERS — immediate fulltime positions. Must be reliable and sober. Top pay for the area. Chance for advancement. Call today 207415-4476 ask for Rick. 2t1

FOR SALE

LITTLE GUYS FIREWOOD Cut, split, delivered. Prompt delivery. 603-960-2537 or 9356302. Fryeburg area $210 cord, over 20 miles add $10. 52t2x

$5 FOR TATTERED — U.S. Flag when purchasing new U.S. Flag 3’x5’ or larger. Maine Flag & Banner, Windham, 893-0339. tf46

HARRISON — Maytag portable dishwsher, used very little $125. Four used studded radial tires with magnesium wheels 205 55 R16 $400 set. Tow Hoe Cricket $2,500. Can be seen at 40 Deertrees Rd. 583-8089 leave message. 4t50x

DRIED FIREWOOD — Dried twelve months. Selling seasoned hardwood year-round. One cord $350, cut, split, delivered. Call 207-595-5029; 207-583-4113. maineseasonedfirewood.com 52t31x

VEHICLES FOR SALE

SNOWPLOW TRUCK — 2001 Chevy Silverado 2500 HD. Runs well, has chains. Something not working on plow and is off truck. $600. 653-8141. 1t1x

JESUS IS LORD — new and used auto parts. National locator. Most parts 2 days. Good used cars. Ovide’s Used Cars, Inc., Rte. 302 Bridgton, 207-647-5477. tf30

BUSINESS SERVICES

DENMARK HOUSE PAINTING — Since 1980. Interior and exterior painting. Free estimates. Call John Mathews 452-2781. tf40x

LAKE REGION — Transportation Service. From shopping trips, pick-up and delivery to personal errands, airport, and special requests. Call or text your request to 207-2910193.

Shelley

gets closer and closer to the top, and even closer to losing Tuffi. (And keep your eyes on that little hedgehog working its way down to the trolls’ underground home. Maybe a dog isn’t the perfect pet, after all.)

Henry’s Concrete Construction is looking to hire for a few positions: concrete laborer, concrete floor finisher, and Class B boom truck operator. Please DO NOT

Help Wanted TOWN OF DENMARK

Enforcement Officer

Code

Local Plumbing Inspector

The Town of Denmark is taking applications to fill the vacant position of Code Enforcement Officer (CEO)/Local Plumbing Inspector (LPI). Responsibilities include issuing building and plumbing permits; conducting inspections to ensure compliance; enforcing the State and Municipal Zoning Ordinances; maintaining liaison with appropriate state and local agencies; and maintaining departmental records and reports.

Ideal applicants shall be State Certified for Land Use and Zoning Regulations, Shoreland Zoning, Legal Issues, Court Rule 80K and Local Plumbing Inspector. Applicants that are not certified will be considered. LPI certification needs to be obtained prior to formal appointment. CEO appointed may be made at time of hire but certification must be obtained within 12 months. The CEO/LPI must possess and maintain certification as required by State law as well as a valid driver’s license and a properly registered and insured private vehicle for job use.

The ability to deal with the public courteously and firmly under adverse or strained conditions is essential. Excellent organizational, computer, and written and oral communications skills are desired. Knowledge in construction is helpful but not required. The position reports directly to the Town Manager.

This is a 32-hour week position including office hours, inspection hours and attending the monthly meetings of the Planning Board and Board of Appeals. Scheduled hours will be established upon hiring. This position is considered Part-Time Benefitted which includes the benefits of health insurance, vacation time, sick time and holiday pay.

The Town of Denmark offers competitive pay rate, this is an hourly rate of pay which will be based on experience and knowledge.

To apply: application may be picked up at the Town Office during business hours, or you may email the Town Manager to request an application – townmanager@denmarkmaine.org. Review of applications is expected to begin immediately. The position will remain open until filled.

The Town of Denmark is an Equal Opportunity employer.

Employment Opportunity –TOWN OF HARRISON

Full-Time Finance Officer General Assistance Administrator

We Want You!!! The Town of Harrison, Maine, is accepting applications for an experienced Finance Officer. We pay top dollar with amazing benefits! Come work with a great team as a valued employee.

The ideal candidate will have experience working in municipal government and using TRIO software. This position serves as an integral part of the management team.

This position is responsible for the custody, collection, and disbursement of Town funds. Work involves cash management, supervision of the collection of funds, including the tax lien and foreclosure process, and assisting with the investment of funds. Work also involves assisting the Town Manager in the preparation of the annual budget and oversight of other various municipal accounts. Work includes payroll and benefits administration. The position also acts as the General Assistance Administrator. Works closely with all Department Heads and other outside agencies.

Work is performed under the general supervision of the Town Manager with considerable independence, in accordance with applicable laws and following Standard General Accounting procedures.

Experience must include knowledge of internal auditing and preparing for the annual fiscal audit.

Graduation from a college or university with a four-year degree in financial management, public administration or any equivalent combination of experience and training is strongly preferred. However, we will definitely consider the right candidate with comparable years and/or commensurate experience.

Applications are available online or may be picked up at the Town Office during normal business hours. Completed applications and resumes may be dropped off at the town office, mailed to the Town of Harrison, P.O. Box 300, Harrison, ME 04040, or e-mailed to cnewell@harrisonmaine.org. All should be addressed to the attention of the Town Manager, Cass Newell. Applications deadline is the close of business January 13, 2023, or until a suitable candidate is found. THE TOWN OF HARRISON IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.

The LRCC welcomes singers

All singers are welcome to join the Lake Region Community Chorus as they begin singing and performing together again after an almost three-year hiatus.

If you love to sing and are free on Monday evenings, the members of the LRCC would love to have you join them. The chorus looks forward to a year of rebuilding as they welcome returning members and new members from Bridgton and surrounding towns. The

Spring Session will start on Jan. 23, and registration will also be held on Jan. 30 in the Twitchell Chapel at the Bridgton Academy in North Bridgton. Registration will be held from 5:45 to 6:30 p.m.

Jan Jukkola and Susan Stockwell will be conducting the Spring Session and will be assisted by accompanist, Julie Frum.

The LRCC welcomes members from all voice parts; Sopranos, Altos, Tenors and Basses, but especially Tenors and Basses to balance out their sound. Auditions are not required but some familiarity with singing and reading music would be helpful.

The LRCC concerts feature of a variety of pieces from many musical genres and styles. There is something for everyone and they want to make sure their singers and audiences have a very enjoyable time at rehearsals and performances.

LRCC rehearsals are from 6:20 to 8:30 p.m. on Monday

evenings. There is a $25 registration fee that helps cover the cost of the music.

The LRCC spring concert dates are scheduled for Friday, May 19, 2023 at 7 p.m. and Sunday, May 21, at 3 p.m.

There is a two-week trial period if needed and scholar-

ships are available. LRCC hopes to see you there! Many thanks to the Bridgton Academy for their continued help and support. Please contact Jan Jukkola for more information at musicsix@ cox.net or 647-2584. LRCC is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.

Storybook Walk at Kezar Reserve

LOVELL — Looking for something to do any day during the winter season? Look no further than Kezar River Reserve’s new book installed along the storybook trail: Jan Brett’s Trouble with Trolls

Oh, and meet a few of the trolls as you walk this short trail. Thanks to GLLT Stewardship Manager Rhyan, Docents Dawn and Jesse and supporter Elsa Newhouse for all of your contributions to bring the trolls to KRR.

In collaboration with the Charlotte Hobbs Memorial Library, GLLT installed a Storybook Trail along the left-hand loop of the Kezar River Reserve located on Route 5 across from the Wicked Good Store.

The trolls who live on Mount Baldy long for a dog. An empty dog basket lies in

January 5, 2023, The Bridgton News, Page 5B

Senior College

By Allen Crabtree Senior College

Eight classes will be offered in person at the Magic Lantern’s Webb’s Tavern, 9 Depot Street, on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to noon from Jan. 23 through Feb. 8.

Proof of COVID-19 vaccination and masks are required.

Classes for the winter session are free to paid members. Mail-in registrations are due by Jan. 7.

Poems for Winter & Spring: Monday, Jan. 23 and Jan. 30 — In the spirit of Shelley’s famous line, “If winter comes can spring be far behind,” this two-session course will be divided into: 1.) the first session (Jan. 23) focused on a selection of Robert Frost’s well known inter poems (like all great poetry, a Frost poem expands our appreciation of his artistry with each re-reading); and 2.) the second (Jan. 30) focused on a group of spring poems by modern and contemporary poets. All poems will be duplicated and distributed for discussion at the beginning of each session. Instructor is Ken Gibbs.

The Women (1939): Monday, Feb. 6 — This charming movie, directed by George Kukor, is unique for its time, as the entire cast is female. Claire Boothe Luce wrote the Broadway play version, and Anita Loos and Jane Martin adapted it for filming. The women of the title are a privileged bunch who must balance family life, friendship, and the hardship of being fabulously wealthy and therefore at loose ends. Men may not make an appearance in the film, but they nevertheless create much of the drama for the characters. The film is highly regarded for its witty dialogue and its fantastic costuming — although it is filmed in black-and-white, there is an inset fashion show that is in full color, highly unusual for that time.

The cast included Norma Shearer, Joan Crawford, Rosalind Russell, Mary Boland, Paulette Goddard, Joan Fontaine, Ruth Hussey, and one of the more famous character actresses of the time, Marjorie Main.

Instructor is Margaret Reimer.

Wabanaki Peoples: Tuesday, Jan. 17 — The indigenous Wabanaki peoples lived in relationship with the lands and its inhabitants in present-day Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont and Maritime Canada, for more than 10,000 years, before the advent of colonization introduced new challenges. Drawing upon millennia of tradition, modern Wabanaki are creating the conditions for a cultural resurgence, by reforming their historical confederacy, and through an invitation to all people, Native and non-Native alike, to join them on the path toward truth, healing and reconciliation.

Instructor is Jason Alexander Gatekunst.

SENIOR COLLEGE, Page 6B

TROLLS AND A STORY — Take a magical walk at the Kezar River Reserve in Lovell as the Greater Lovell Land Trust presents a storybook walk, featuring Jan Brett’s Trouble with Trolls. The Reserve is located on Route 5 across from the Wicked Good Store.

front of their fireplace next to a water dish, and dog pictures cover the dirt walls of their underground home. There’s only one problem — where to get the dog?

This is when Treva’s trouble with trolls begins: when she sets off with her dog, Tuffi, to visit her cousin and the greedy trolls spot Tuffi. Treva has never even seen a troll before. Yet this feisty heroine is not only brave but quick-thinking. Quick enough to outwit one troll after another until she reaches the very top of the mountain, where all five trolls are waiting, and THEY WANT

THE LAKE REGION COMMUNITY CHORUS IS BACK and all singers are welcome to join.

Dementia: What it is and How to Care for Your Loved One: Tuesday, Jan. 24 — With decades of experience between them, Susan and Pam will explain dementia, recognizing the onset and the needed care for the loved one. Some tips will be described on dealing with the impact on family relationships as the patient transitions from home-life to assisted living and memory care.

Instructors are Susan Robbins and Pam Smith.

Good Karma Yarn and Soap: Tuesday, Jan. 31 — A brief history of how the owners started in the fiber processing business and soap making business and how their business has evolved over the years. They will bring some of their products as visual aids and invite the attendees to their mill to have a full tour.

Instructors are Jim and Amy Grant.

Meet the Feet: Wednesday, Jan. 18 and Jan. 25 — Join Greater Lovell Land Trust Education Director and Maine Master Naturalist Leigh Macmillen Hayes for an introductory program to some of the nuances of tracking mammals with whom we share the western Maine woods. This two-day program will include an indoor session on Wednesday, Jan. 18, and, based on conditions, an outdoor tracking session on Wednesday, Jan. 25 – possible locations are Naramissic and Peabody Fitch Woods. Snowshoes recommended for the latter.

A signed Release & Assumption of Risk form is required for this class.

Instructor is Leigh Macmillen Hayes. A History of Roots Music through the Cigar Box Guitar: Wednesday, Feb. 1

An exploration of roots music will be explained and performed by William Janelle of Bridgton. With a cigar box guitar, which

influenced many of the early blues musicians, he will show the makings and use of a contemporary cigar box guitar, along with its different iterations of over the past 180 years.

Instructor is William Janelle.

The Making of a Cigar Box Guitar: Wednesday, Feb. 8 — The making of a cigar box guitar will be explained and performed by William Janelle of Bridgton. He will show the different construction methods and parts used both specifically for the making of guitars and found objects that can be applied to make unique cigar box guitars. Also, the building of a 12-bar blues song and its different formats, will be discussed.

Instructor is William Janelle.

Senior College: The Senior College at Bridgton is the hometown program for anyone 50 years or older in Bridgton and surrounding Lake Region communities to learn new things and meet new friends. Senior College has sessions in the spring, fall and winter each year that are designed to appeal to every interest. Membership is open to any senior in the Lake Region.

Reservation forms are available at the Bridgton Public Library and at the Senior College website: http://www.seniorcollegeatbridgton.org. Everyone should fill out the Reservation Form by Jan. 7 to reserve a space in the class(es) you wish and return the form. If you joined or rejoined in September 2022, classes are free. If you are not a member, please enclose a $25 check if you wish to become a member. Classes are $10 or $15 for each class you wish to attend. Mail to: Senior College at Bridgton, P.O. Box 308, Bridgton, ME 04009.

If you have questions contact Kappy Sprenger, Senior College Registration, at 207-647-5593 or seniorcollegebridgton@ gmail.com.

Calendar of Events

Saturday, January 7

Waterford World’s Fair public supper, 5 to 6:30 p.m., dine in or take out, North Waterford Congregational Church. Menu: roast turkey, all fixings, bread, beverage, homemade pies. $15 per person. 50/50 raffle, door prize.

Wednesday, January 11 Blood drive from 1 to 5:30 p.m. at the United Parish Congregational Church of Harrison and North Bridgton (77 Main Street), sponsored by the Harrison Lions Club. Call 1-800-REDCROS (1-800-733-2767) or visit RedCrossBlood.org and enter HarrisonME to schedule an appointment.

Lost in Place: Saving Wall Paintings at 7 p.m. David Ottinger, a preservation contractor with 38 years of experience moving early painted walls — and complete historic structures — throughout New England, will describe the delicate and complicated process of moving these walls. The presentation features images of the painted walls from the James Norton House in East Baldwin, painted by Jonathan Poor, Rufus Porter’s nephew, in 1840 and removed from the home in 2011. The walls, considered Jonathan Poor’s finest work, will be installed in the museum’s new building to

The Treasure of Pleasant Mt.

home at the base of the mountain, and kept for a time in a corn shed until being lost at some later date. However, during its time in the lobby of the old hotel, many a visiting tourist had seen it, and by then, rumors of the fabulous stones to be found on Pleasant Mountain were slowly spread throughout New England, until by the time the hotel was rebuilt in 1873 it transpired that budding geologists eager to find amethyst for themselves soon numbered among its clients. This hotel was in operation until about 1902, and through all the latter decades of the 19th century, periodic searches of the mountain were made in quest to obtain the now fabled amethysts. None of these explorers to our knowledge had any success in finding their quarry, or if they did, they kept their reward to themselves; though plain quartz points of several inches in length, without their accompanying amethyst but very clear and worthy in their own right have been found multiple times, and one expedition in this era did succeed in finding a large deposit of graphite on Pleasant Mountain, which itself was later lost and as yet remains to be re-found.

It was also in this period that quantities of gold were discovered in the vicinity of the Hio Ridge, in the very shadow of the mountain, but that is a story for another time.

It was not until the 1890s that any more amethyst was discovered on Pleasant Mountain, at which time the amateur geologist and father of the local summer-camp movement, George Howe of Norway, enters the picture. Howe was both a scientific and an outdoorsy type, and was driven by a singular will toward collecting specimens of all the local minerals to be found in Maine. He panned gold from the Swift River, dove for freshwater pearls and dredged garnets in the Saco, and was later involved in some of the first serious efforts to recover tourmaline in this section of country since the days of old Hannibal Hamlin himself. But when Howe came to Pleasant Mountain, he was hunting amethyst, and following out the rumors he soon found himself at the door of the Warrens, from whom he obtained the legend shared in this article. With the permission of the Warrens, he spent the better part of a year canvassing the ledges of the mountain up and down in search of the fabled lode.

Always alone, often on foot, he went up into the forests of Mt. Pleasant with only his tools for witness, and somewhere on that verdant hillside in April of 1894 he at last struck gold. Well, struck purple actually. He found, “what could almost be called a vein of crystals in pockets. These pockets contained both massive and crystalized amethyst which were imbedded in a yellow kaolin substance. The largest gem stones cut from the amethyst by Howe were generally in the five to 10 karat size. Although some would consider this to be small, the color of these stones more than compensated for any possibly lack in size.” This description of Howe’s find is taken from the wonderful history, Treasures of Maine by Jane Perham Stevens, as is this wonderful photograph of a brooch (see photo) which Howe created himself from Maine gold, Maine pearls and, yes, Maine amethyst courtesy of Pleasant Mountain.

There are still people living today who recall stories told to them by George Howe in the 1940s, during his summer-camp era, about the early days of his coming down into Bridgton with mason jars filled with purple crystals to sell. It was during that time, certainly by 1895, that word of his discovery reached the broader geologic community. Specimens were examined by state geologists who eagerly declared them the finest in New England. A great number were sent to the Portland Museum of Art and exhibited by H. Wallace Noyes, and the bulk of Howe’s best specimens were eventually purchased by Tiffany & Co. of New York City, where their gem expert Dr. George F. Kunz pronounced them unequalled to any the company had ever seen. It is by way of Tiffany’s, we are told, that the finest gemstone cut from Pleasant Mountain was later sold for some $10,000, ending up within the Crown Jewels of the Imperial Treasury of the German Kaiser. This last point may of course be only a rumor, but it was brought back by a man who had been to Germany and supposedly seen it there. Certainly, Howe was very fond of telling that story, for it helped him to sell the gemstones which he regularly harvested from his secret collection spot well into the 1920s. Many tried to buy the secret from him, but ultimately George Howe took the precise location of the discovery to his grave.

From that time, only small and impure crystals have since been found very occasionally at other points on Pleasant Mountain; these include rough miniature amethysts in the ledges near the fire tower, site of the old hotel, and some broken pieces which were recovered from the bed of the little brook which falls down the western side of the mountain, where the spring’s torrent had washed them from some unknown, higher outcrop.

I also hear that at one time, a single 100-pound point of smoky quartz was discovered in a gorge, broken and carried there by some avalanche of long ago, but this tale seems doubtful and I have not yet been able to authenticate the story.

For all this, the site of Howe’s motherlode remains today one of the most fascinating in all the abiding mysteries of our region.

Beyond occurring here at Pleasant Mountain, significant amethyst discoveries have also been made locally at Big Deer Mountain near Chatham N.H., at the nearby village of Lovell, and of course in Sweden, where the specimen now on display at the Magic Lantern originates. Tourmaline of exceeding quality is found in Paris, Norway, Newry, and Stow, all in Oxford County;

be constructed in 2023. This is a free (suggested donation $10), virtual event presented by the Rufus Porter Museum; www.rufusportermuseum.org/events

Friday, January 13

Bridgton Easy Riders pot luck, meeting and guest speaker. The supper is at 6 p.m. followed by a business meeting at 6:45 p.m. The guest speaker will be Maine Game Warden, Corporal Kris MacCabe, Landowner Relations Specialist.

Saturday, January 14

Met Opera Live in HD, Fedora, 1 p.m. at the Leura Hill Eastman Performing Arts Center, Fryeburg Academy. 165 minutes. Tickets $10 to $28, www. fryeburgacademy.org

Wednesday, January 18

Community lunch. The Otisfield Social Outreach Committee will host a free (donations appreciated) community lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Community Hall 293 on Route 121. On the menu is chili (beef, venison and vegetarian), cornbread, salads and cookies for dessert.

Senior Luncheon at noon at the Harrison Fire Station Community Room. Menu: pot roast, veggies, salad and dessert. Donations appreciated. Bingo to follow luncheon. Please RSVP to rec-

reation@harrisonmaine.org or 207-583-2241 ext. 304.

Thursday, January 19

Waterford Community Potluck Suppah, 6 p.m., Wilkins House. To participate, bring a main dish, salad or dessert. If Oxford Hills schools are canceled due to weather, the supper is canceled. Future suppers will be held the third Thursday of the month (Feb. 16, March 16, April 20 and May 18).

Open Mic Night at Charlotte Hobbs Memorial Library in Lovell, 6 p.m. Perform or come to listen. Read a poem or story of your own or recite one you love, sing a song, tell a joke, a story, an anecdote — the floor is yours.

Saturday, January 21 All About Books at the Waterford Public Library with author Robert W. Spencer of South Waterford at 11 a.m. Free. All welcome.

Wildlife Tracking Walk, 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Join Chocorua Lake Conservancy Stewardship Director Debra Marnich for Wildlife Tracking Walk for All Ages in Chocorua, N.H. This program is free. More information and please register in advance at bit.ly/ CLC012123 or visit www. chocorualake.org.

aquamarine has been discovered in Stoneham; and beryls of significant size and purity were once known to occur in Fryeburg, though as I understand this deposit was mined out in the early 19th century and the site has since been effaced by the laying of a roadway. All told this northernmost tip of Cumberland County, extending as it does into the incomparable ‘gem country’ of Oxford County and the adjoining foothills of the White Mountains – those immemorial ‘Crystal Hills’ of Great Carbuncle fame — remains even today a singularly profitable hunting ground for mineralogists looking to dig up the finest of nature’s treasures which can found within the State of Maine.

Regrettably, no local amethyst is preserved in the historical societies of either Bridgton or Denmark at this time, but certainly anyone knowing the whereabouts of specimens with good provenance in private hands, are heartily encouraged to reach out and inform us, as we are most interested in adding a piece to our collections.

Incidentally, the remarkable brooch pictured in this column was handed down through Howe’s distant family and later worn by a cousin of one of his grandchildren, if I remember right, to a gala graduation party at Faneuil Hall in Boston in the 1960s, where it was tragically lost to a pick-pocketer who apprehended only its financial and not its cultural value.

I am told that two pieces of Mt. Pleasant amethyst are today held by the Norway Historical Society, where part of the personal collection of George Howe was deposited at the time of his death. I have also discovered that three specimens sold by Howe to Portland geologist Thomas F. Lamb were later donated with his entire collection to the Boston Museum of Science, where they are now held in deep-storage. I have recently been corresponding with the curator of this museum in hopes to secure photographs and potentially the loan of one of the pieces, to be returned to Bridgton for exhibit. We look forward to updating our readers on this subject as soon as developments allow.

Until then, this column will have to suffice… that is unless anyone’s willing to go prospecting in the interim. Till next time!