March 2, 2023

FATAL

Should town sell or hold?

By Wayne E. Rivet Staff Writer

As Bridgton faces a variety of capital improvement projects, the big issue is how to fund them.

Raising taxes, certainly, would be distasteful.

Select Board member Bob McHatton feels it might be a good time to sell off some town-owned properties.

McHatton requested a list of current tax-acquired properties as well as a list of town-owned properties.

“The town owns a lot of property,” McHatton said at Tuesday’s board meeting.

of a house fire on East Shore Beach Road in Naples,

Friday morning.

Local man dies in Naples fire

NAPLES — An early morning fire last Friday claimed the life of Jonathan Cabral, 43, who lived alone in a home at 88 East Shore Beach Road (off Route 35) in Naples.

The Naples Fire Department responded at 2 a.m. to a report of a residential fire. The Fire Marshal’s Office was contacted and investigators responded to the location to process the scene and begin an investigation.

Discovered in the fire was a deceased male, homeowner Jonathan Cabral. His remains were transported to a local funeral home.

The fire is an active and ongoing investigation. Also responding to the scene were fire departments were from Casco, Sweden, Bridgton, Harrison, Poland,

“It’s not a bad thing,” Select Board member Paul Tworog responded.

“Almost $10 million worth,” Select Board member Ken Murphy added. Excluding the Ham Complex and Pondicherry Park, the town’s land catalogue shows a total of 496.47 acres.

Town Manager Robert Peabody planned to propose at the board’s next meeting (March 14) to sell two properties — one on Sleigh Bell Lane, another on North Bridgton Road. Peabody noted that the Sleigh Bell Lane property had been two pieces “pulled together for taxation purposes,” and felt the town could put out to bid the property as two lots. The lot includes frontage on

Casco moves slowly to PWD

By Dawn De Busk Staff Writer

CASCO

—

The Town of Casco is embarking on a five-to seven-year plan to move in increments from contracting out services toward having a public works department to do those jobs.

At the urging of the Casco Board of Selectmen, the town manager ran some numbers to figure out if a public works department is

less expensive.

On Feb. 21, Casco Town Manager Anthony Ward presented the board with three options that the town could take: status quo, incremental phases, or twoyear plan to go entirely public works. Ward recommended the incremental because it is the best way for citizens to adjust to the change, it would be less money

Referendum Tues. on SAD 61 storage building

By Wayne E. Rivet Staff Writer

Voters

Bridgton, old Town Hall on North High Street. Casco, Crooked River Elementary. Naples, Town Hall, 15 Village Green Lane.

“To reiterate, this referendum (one question) is for the construction of the

building only. This does not require any funding from taxpayers as this project has already been approved for funding through the district’s Reserve Funds,” said SAD 61 Finance Director Sherrie Proctor during a public hearing at Lake

Chance connection lands Lake Region band uniforms

By Wayne E. Rivet Staff Writer

When Jason Ward and his 14 band students made the long trip to UMassAmherst in October, little did they realize they would be touched by unexpected, good fortune.

Seated in the bleachers, along about 3,000 band members from across New England and upstate New

York, Laker musicians were dressed in their blue and gold golf shirts. Other schools sported elaborate uniforms.

“We wore our band shirts, which look pretty good, but you had all these bands in fancy uniforms. I had a couple people come up to me and asked, ‘Do you think we could get uniforms like those?’ I told

them it is something we could work toward,” Lake Region Band Director Jason Ward said.

About 10 minutes later, Samala Tobias and her husband approached Ward.

“I thought one of my kids were in trouble,” he said. “She told me they (West Springfield High School) had uniforms that they were transitioning

from old to new — they had bought new band uniforms. They noticed our colors are blue and gold, just like them.”

“Would you like our uniforms?” the couple asked. Tobias is publicity chair for the West Springfield Music Parents Association.

The West Side Band received new uniforms in August thanks to funding approved by the School Committee.

“Yes,” said Ward after a minute of shock and speechlessness. “This just doesn’t happen. I feel blessed. I am so appreciative to their school and their parent Band Association. What an incredible gesture.”

Ward hopes to organize a similar music-like Boosters group in the future, which Lake Region had at one time.

“They (West Springfield, Mass.) have a very organized group of band parents,” he said. “In talking with the West Springfield parents, they said that the uniform gives kids a sense of pride. It

Region Vocational Center on Feb. 13.

On May 10, 2022, voters approved the expenditure of $700,000 in Reserve Funds to construct a 60-by-100 district-wide storage facility on the high school campus. One article allowed

$400,000 from available undesignated fund balances to the Capital Reserve Fund, and expend $500,000 from the Capital Reserve to build the storage facility to the left of the Bus Garage. The other article allowed

Otisfield, Sebago and Windham. The Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office, as well as Naples and Sebago Rescue also assisted.

I FEEL BLESSED was the response by Band Director Jason Ward after West Springfield Music Parents Association donated uniforms to LRHS.

BACK AT THE EXPO — The Lake Region Band added plenty of spirit to the James Banks Exposition Building during the Lady Lakers’ tournament game against Medomak Valley. (Photo by Kevin Murphy)

FIRE — Workers sift through the remains

which took the life of a local man early last

$300K to town from settlement

By Dawn De Busk Staff Writer CASCO

— The State is asking the Town of Casco to please take the $300,000 and use it to protect groundwater. Is someone writing a fairy tale?

Hate to douse the skepticism, but the money is from reparation funds already promised the town.

Casco Town Manager Anthony “Tony” Ward has been in communication with Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), regarding the

remaining money that is owed Casco from the Tenney Hill Waste Oil Site Settlement.

The Tenney Hill settlement stemmed from a motor oil disposal site in which the soil could not be cleaned or restored. The Town of Casco was awarded a $500,000 settlement. The money must be spent in a way that protects groundwater. “Two-hundred thousand dollars ($200,000) has been given to the town and $300,000 is left,” Ward said.

“I am working with DEP to obtain these funds and allow them to close out the fund for auditing purposes,” he said. “They wanted to close out the fund. The expectation is that these funds will be used what they were intended for.”

Chairman Robert MacDonald spoke.

“The town agreed to set money aside for septic tank replacement . . . to assist low-income people who needed a replacement of their septic system. We voted to make sure money was set aside for those pur-

poses,” he said.

Mary-Vienessa Fernades was on the board when the money was initially awarded.

“The money was used for septic upgrades and a leach field for Casco (Public) Library,” she said. She recalled it was $12,000 per person to help replace a failing septic system — something that would endanger the quality of groundwater.

“Once we see the money, it could go into a special revenue account for those purposes,” Ward said.

Casco chats up meeting policy

By Dawn De Busk Staff Writer

CASCO — Having a policy helps people know what the expectations are.

Recently, the Casco Board of Selectmen discussed drafting a policy for town meetings.

“After the last special town meeting in January, there was chatter. Maybe, we should have a policy that defines certain aspects of town meeting, such as when should town meeting occur. What is process of determining where it is to occur?

Should the town standardize the location of town meeting,” Casco Town Manager Anthony “Tony” Ward said. The 2022 annual town meeting was held at the Crooked River School after the school had been renovated. The other traditional site has been the Casco Community Center gym.

“When should it occur?

Right now, it’s the day after [Primary] Election. It puts new selectmen in seats, trying to explain a budget they weren’t involved with,” Ward said.

“Should clickers be used at all town meetings? Those are items I believe the select board should discuss,” he said.

Chairman Robert MacDonald asked for board comments.

“All of the above,” Selectman Grant Plummer quipped.

“This past one with the library coming to us three weeks beforehand — I didn’t like how that all happened. How things get on a special town meeting agenda [should be addressed] so

that we feel like we have given the public enough notice about the issues at those meetings,” Plummer said.

“There is always the one that has to happen and doesn’t fit into schedule,” he said.

“We seem to pretty commonly have the January special town meeting for whatever reason that is,” Plummer said.

Mary-Vienessa Fernandes shared her thoughts.

MEETING, Page 6A

Transitioning toward a PWD

(Continued from Page 1A)

upfront because costs would be spread out over more years, and it would give residents the opportunity to see if the town can provide better service than the private sector.

Basically, the selectmen agreed that the incremental approach was the best way to go. Ward introduced the topic, which was on the agenda last week. After discussing a plan of action with Casco Public Works Road Foreman Mike Genest, Ward presented it to the board.

“It really comes down to three options,” he said. “We could come up with a plan for whatever direction the board wants to go but before we put too much energy or effort into it, and then end up not going in any direction, I want board’s guidance.”

“The three options are:

1.) Status quo, to continue to contract everything out.

2.) Let’s do incremental transition over a 5-to 7-year period, at which point we then begin doing during longterm strategic planning while increasing town services toward the goal, which would be a full public works. 3.) Jumping into a full public works in two years,” he said.

“As much as I would like to be very progressive and push things at a quick rate, move fast, I really think, staff and I think, the incremental change probably gives us the best opportunity for longer term success,” he said.

“When you start looking at community change, as anyone knows, when it comes change, the vast

majority of people have a hard time with it. [People] don’t take accept it very easily,” Ward said. “This gives us the chance to do it incrementally, show some successes, and then show the longer term benefit and spread out costs over a longer duration.”

He spoke of the drawbacks to trying to put a public works department into place in two years’ time.

“Right now, Casco doesn’t possess the infrastructure for a public works [department] to do that in two years. We have a sand/ salt shed but that is going to be needing upgrades in the future. But what about a public works building, a garage, mechanical services. That whole infrastructure is a challenge to get in two years,” he said.

While the town could show neutral cost by going with completely public works, the vehicles to have the department do the jobs would require taking out a bond, Ward said.

“You would be looking at at least three full-size dump trucks running from $185,000 to $200,000. It might be more. I haven’t shopped for one in a while,” Ward said, adding, “If you ordered a truck now, you’d get in two years.”

Workforce availability is another factor that could make it difficult to transition to public works in two years.

“In today’s world, trying to obtain a CDL driver is a challenge. If you go to public works or the private sector, it is difficult,” he said.

By hiring non-CDL drivers, the town could be putting ducks in the row for a slower transition to public

works, Ward said. “This would give us a chance to have to hire nonCDL and put them through training under our watch and tutorage,” he said.

“Hire a third employee in the late fall so [that person] could see how winter is,” he said, adding a third person would be great help while doing ditching.

The town will present a plan “to increase the crew to have three members, and two additional plow trucks. One-ton trucks with plows, which do not require CDL to drive. At the beginning of winter, we would be plowing all dirt roads, 24.6 miles,” Ward said. “This would allow for us to show the quality of our services compared to the private business.”

The incremental plan would allow town’s residents to compare town services versus contracting out and decide for themselves, he said.

He mentioned that the winter-time road maintenance contract with C. Pond Plowing ends in 2025.

“While we, Mike Genest and I, are both energetic to have a full public works, we think this is the best avenue if this is what is chosen for the community,” Ward said.

The selectmen were on board with moving at slower pace with a long-range plan in mind.

“I am just going on record to say I prefer the incremental system not only because it extends

Fishing on or off? Stay tuned

By Dawn De Busk Staff Writer

NAPLES — Keep your ear to the ground.

Today, the fishing club and the recreation department will decide if the free Ice Fishing Open House at Kent’s Landing is a go.

Or if nasty weather will postpone the event until midMarch.

the cost, but also because we are going to be looking at tax increases next year, when we get the revaluation,” Chairman Robert MacDonald said.

“To go and say, ‘We are getting three trucks and it’s $600,000 but we won’t get them for two years.’ It just doesn’t make good business sense, when we could go smaller and prove ourselves,” he said.

“And, we could finally get that salt shed figured out. I’ve been on the board for three years, and replacing that has been one of our goals. This would give us a timeline for us to get that done by,” MacDonald said.

Selectman Scott Avery spoke.

“I agree. The incremental plan just makes sense,” he said.

Referring to the twoyear plan, he said. “A lot of money would have to be spent really fast and we are just not ready for that.”

“If you look at how the Town of Raymond did theirs. What they did was incremental plan,” Avery said.

“Yes, I think it is great model to go by,” Genest said. Select board member Mary-Vienessa Fernades also like what was being recommended and was pleased with the forward progress.

“I agree with the incremental transition,” Fernandes said.

People can check the Facebook page of the Town of Naples, Maine — community activities and recreation for the update.

If the open house is held, the time will be from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and the location is out on the ice from Kent’s Landing.

“We are deciding whether to postpone. We will delay the decision until Thursday when we have a better feel if we are going to get the long-range weather that is being forecasted,” according to Sebago Lake Anglers Association (SLAA) President Bob Chapin.

“It’s snowing right now. It’s due to keep snowing until tonight with some snow on Wednesday night,” he said. “The bad news is on Thursday, there’s a weather event that will be rain and/or freezing rain. So we have some considerations for the customers or the people coming to our event. We don’t want to create an event that makes people get on the roads unnecessarily.”

“The public may decide it is not worth it. They will cancel their own plans and not show up and we would never know it,” he said.

“I think we can make that call on Thursday [today] for Saturday,” he said.

He said people can check social media to see if the open house, co-hosted by SLAA and the Naples Community Activities Department, is still taking place on Saturday. If it does take place, people don’t need to bring fishing gear or traps or bait. All of that will be provided. Additionally, there will be food, a fire pit and a warming tent.

Chapin is not surprised about the potential cancellation. After all, it is reliant on the weather in Maine. The event was originally scheduled for Feb. 25, last Saturday, but

FISHING, Page 4A

THE BRIDGTON NEWS

(BRIDGTON NEWS CORPORATION)

Established 1870 P.O. BOX 244 • BRIDGTON, ME 04009 207-647-2851

WILL THERE BE FISH TO CATCH this weekend at the free Ice Fishing Open House in Naples? It’s up to what Mother Nature dishes out.

SAD 61 notes: How to make up storm days?

the School Board to transfer $200,000 from available undesignated fund balances to the Facilities Maintenance Reserve Fund, and to expend the $200,000 on the project.

The metal building will consist of a 40-by- 60 square foot area of heated storage and a maintenance shop. This section will be raised four feet above ground level to accommodate a loading dock for deliveries. The remaining 60-by-60 foot space will be at ground level for cold storage.

Casco Director Stan Buchanan asked whether food products would be stored at this facility, and Proctor answered, “No.”

The project is the final step in allowing SAD 61 to turn the Bridgton Memorial School over to the Town of Bridgton. A majority of SAD 61’s storage is at Bridgton Memorial School, at this point, Proctor noted.

Atlantic Resource Consultants of Freeport is the civil engineer for the project, which has received Naples Planning Board approval.

“Even though the project is locally funded, because it is over 25,000 square feet, SAD 61 is required by the Maine Department of Education to hold a district referendum vote since it is considered a ‘full construction project,’” Proctor noted.

In other board news:

Making up snow days — SAD 61 has dealt with some “challenging weather” thus far, and it doesn’t seem to be letting up. Tuesday’s storm forced the cancellation of in-person instruction, but SAD 61 went the remote learning route.

Superintendent Al Smith told the School Board SAD 61 has lost five days of school due to weather, pushing the last day of school to June 16.

“We are at a point that we need to talk about making some decisions around not extending those any further than we need to,” he said.

After speaking with school administrators and instructional staff, SAD 61 will change the March 17 teacher workshop to a regular education day. Smith noted that 87% of all teachers voted to make the switch.

“That is a simple decision for one day” the district needs to make up, Smith pointed out.

Options to address the other days include adding an extra hour to the school day. Smith posed to staff using this format five days in a

row or add an hour every Tuesday and Thursday for five weeks, which would equal two snow days?

“We did it a few years ago, but the problem with doing it for five consecutive days, it was really tough on the elementary kids. I think we did it for three weeks in a row. The first two weeks weren’t too bad for the middle school and high school kids, but by the third week, everyone had about enough of it,” Smith said.

A majority of staff (66%) supported the Tuesday/ Thursday option. Smith sent a letter to parents regarding the five Tuesday and five Thursday set-ups, set to start in mid-March through midApril. Exact dates will be decided at Monday’s School Board meeting (March 6).

“It’s not uncommon to get a snowstorm or two in March,” Smith noted (which happened Tuesday and more snow in the forecast for today, March 2). “But, we want to be proactive than reactive.” Smith said he would prefer to not push school into late June.

“Sadly, I don’t see a lot of productivity amongst students and/or staff, for that matter, including myself, at the end of June. People want to be out of school,” he added. “I think we would be better off adding an hour. We can use that time constructively, which we did the last time — middle and high school kids with remedial work, elementary schools did some different things to support kids socially and emotionally.”

Bridgton Director Karla Swanson-Murphy questioned whether the additional hour could be parceled out to each period, extending course times.

“It can be,” Smith responded. “The last time, it was added on at the end of the day as remedial time at the high school and middle school. I never mandated what to do, but allowed the building administrators to work with their staffs to decide what is best for their school. It could be added on to each period, that’s a possibility.”

LRMS — CCSO

Detective Ackerman spoke to staff about school safety, and looked at case studies from active shooter events across the country.

“It got our staff thinking about our practices at the middle school, and how we might improve those and tighten things up,” Lake Region Middle School Principal Matthew Lokken said.

• Great Schools Partnership talked about diversity, inclusion and

equity, which is one of our district goals. GSP discussed the idea of creating safe spaces with the school, as well as brave spaces.

“They gave teachers strategies and tools to use in situations they may see happening in halls and classrooms,” Lokken said.

• Twenty-five students from Grades 6-8 that are Team Lakers, working with Special Olympic athletes once a week, stretching, drills, getting them ready for the Games in the spring.

“It’s a positive experience for everyone involved, nice mentoring and teaching going on,” Lokken said.

• Opportunity Alliance is back to lead a six-week Cooking Matters program, which teaches 12 kids on Tuesdays to prepare basic foods to full meal items.

• The Math Team went to USM at Gorham on Jan. 28 to compete and placed fourth out of seven teams. Three LRMS kids were sixth graders.

“Look out southern Maine, the next two years we’re going to be pretty good!” Lokken warned the competition.

The Math Team is coached by Alex Garrett. Students competing at USM included Jordan Thibodeau, Kyleigh Bueler, Brendan Kenneally and Sophia Dobson. Orianna Conant attended as team moral support and she put together snacks for her teammates as they only had three 5-minute breaks to refuel and rehydrate.

Kyleigh and Brendan qualified for the State Meet this Saturday at Kennebec Valley Community College.

LRHS: LR staff also met with Detective Ackerman.

“He was lights out. Entertaining. Engaging. Approachable. He answered tons of questions. Walt Ridlon of the Vocational Center said he has been in education for 50 something years and it was the best training he has ever had,” LRHS Principal Maggie Thornton said. “It was super helpful and great to get his perspective.”

LRVC: CNA students, instructed by LaurieAnne Morello, are out doing clinicals after completing enough classroom work to do so.

“It’s not easy to get into health-care facilities these days, but she has been able to line up clinicals at assisted living, nursing home, hospital and memory care places. Students will be getting a well-rounded opportunity,” LRVC Director David Morse said.

• Early Childhood Occupations program seniors have started intern-

ships at area day cares and classrooms.

• Law Enforcement students are meeting with the Early Release coordinator at Windham Correctional Facility giving them a chance to explore that potential career.

Adult Ed: Director Michelle Gayne noted the program has seen an increase in students, 7 diploma and 3 HISETS. The students range in age from 16 to 20-year-olds.

• Adult Ed is offering digital literacy courses for seniors.

• Since there was no CNA course this past January, Gayne said Adult Ed is opening up lines of communication with Central Maine Healthcare about potentially offering a “hybrid” CNA course.

“They have identified a CNA instructor, which might be a solution to canceling Adult Ed courses,” Gayne said.

• Two banks and a credit union will co-instruct a new course, Your Role as a New Banker, for entry level tellers a customer-relations representatives.

Better than people think — Resident Peter Morrison wondered where SAD 61 ranks in assessment scores in relation to other school systems?

“To find out, it’s not as easy as it sounds,” Morrison told the School Board.

“Looking at the statewide spreadsheet, they (Maine Department of Education) have us listed in the ‘middle of the pack.’ It’s a good thing considering where we stood about a decade ago. Many people in our district think we rank down or at the bottom — that’s people talking to me.”

Morrison compared SAD 61 against neighboring school systems, as well as schools he attended and

Sanford, where he was a school committee member.

New numbers will be released in about three weeks.

Morrison found that in SAD 57 (Massabesic, where he attended), there was not much difference between the two systems. SAD 57 was in the 890 range to SAD 61’s 920s. Sanford, on the other hand, was “all over the place,” Morrison pointed out, ranging 423 to 2083.

“I want parents in our school district to know we are no longer sitting at the bottom, like many people believe. When I say many, it’s almost 100 people that I’ve spoken to who still think you’re at the bottom,” he concluded during the public participation portion of the meeting. “We’re not. The school administrators, as well as yourselves, everyone has worked wonderfully to get us off the bottom.”

Personnel — Directors approved the nominations of Caroline Dahms as Stevens Brook Elementary office clerk, replacing Laurie Roberts who transferred

to an Academic Support Technician position.

Alyssa Hodgdon as an Ed Tech 1 (Special Education, Resource Room) at Songo Locks Elementary School, replacing Susan Rose who transferred to an Ed Tech III position at Songo Locks.

Lauren Ross as an Ed Tech 1 (Special Education, Self-Contained Classroom) at Songo Locks, replacing Michelle St. Cyr, who resigned.

Erin White as a permanent substitute at Crooked River Elementary, replacing Maureen McAllister, who resigned.

William Horne as a bus driver, replacing Heather LaForge, who resigned.

Retirements — Lili Needham-Fox as a teacher at Stevens Brook Elementary at the end of the school year.

Sharon Rogers as a teacher at Crooked River Elementary at the end of the school year.

Resignations — Paul Janus as an Ed Tech III at Lake Region Vocational Center.

Maureen McAllister as a permanent substitute at Crooked River Elementary.

Town meeting vs ballot box?

By Dawn De Busk Staff Writer

NAPLES — Local selectmen were split on sending a proposed ordinance to Naples Annual Town Meeting. The fairly lengthy discussion — which included comments from the public and elected officials — ended up centering upon whether town meeting or the ballot box was the more effective way for citizens to vote.

The proposed Events Venue Ordinance was before the Naples Board of Selectmen during a meeting on Feb 13. It had gone through the public hearing process recently. The goal was to decide how to present it to voters. The ordinance took a back seat to talking about the pros and cons of voting at town meeting versus voting via silent ballot.

One difference is the

turnout. A much larger percentage of the population [approximately 1,000] votes during an election compared to the number of people [50 to less than 100] who attend a town meeting.

Another big difference is that during town meeting, people can ask questions about issues and get answers or discuss it, but during an Election, nobody is allowed to talk about questions on the ballot. People in the audience touched upon the citizen’s responsibility to educate themselves prior to voting.

In the end, the original motion failed. The proposed Events Venue Ordinance will face voters when Naples residents cast their ballots in the spring.

Vice-Chair Ted Shane introduced the motion to send it to town meeting.

“I make a motion that we add this to the annual

town meeting warrant,” Shane said.

Chairman Jim Grattelo preferred to place the ordinance on the secret ballot.

“The motion was made and seconded. I thought we agreed that we were going to put the ordinances on the June ballot because that is when the majority of people are voting. That is the system that we started which is pretty effective,” Grattelo said.

Shane disagreed.

“There is no ordinance that says we have to do that. Personally, I don’t like that process. So, that is why I said to put it to annual town meeting,” he said.

“For 150 years here, we voted on these ordinances at town meeting. People stood, debated at the podium and voiced their opinions and then they voted.”

“The way I see it the

BALLOT, Page 6A

THEY KNOW THEIR MATH — High scorers for the Lake Region Middle School Math Team were Brendan Kenneally and Kyleigh Bueler.

Bridgton ponders to sell properties, hold off

Highland Lake. The North Bridgton Road property is 23 acres. In both cases, the lots are wooded, and do not involve homes.

Tworog questioned whether the town should hold off selling any property as it develops an Open Space policy, as well as updating its Comprehensive Plan. Tworog attended Monday’s Open Space Committee workshop (more on town planning next week), which included the

results of an online survey regarding potential future use of open spaces. Over 600 people responded to the survey. “It (the workshop) was super well attended. The Open Space Committee is an active group, and will be coming toward some conclusions. I would like to hold back on sale of property at this time. I am not sure what the final recommendations will be, but there is a ground swell of support for (maintaining open spaces),”

Fryeburg Police

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

Monday, February 13

7:39 a.m. Burglar alarm on Bradley Street checked.

11:47 a.m. 9-10-1 hang-up call on Campus Way.

5 p.m. Assist another agency on Eastland Street.

Tuesday, February 14

12:25 a.m. Responding to a disturbance on West Fryeburg Road, police charged David S. Hatch Jr., 49, of Fryeburg with domestic violence assault.

10 a.m. Complaint on Main Street, report taken.

10:35 a.m. Suspicious person on Haley Town Road.

12:07 p.m. Sex offender registration at FPD.

6:19 p.m. Animal complaint on Bridgton Road.

Wednesday, February 15

1:30 p.m. Suspicious activity at Main Street business.

1:50 p.m. Sex offender registration at FPD.

8:13 p.m. Juvenile offense at Molly Ockett School.

8:21 p.m. Assist another agency on Main Street.

8:24 p.m. 9-1-1 hang-up call on Morningside Drive checked.

Thursday, February 16

11:45 a.m. Assist Fryeburg Rescue at Molly Ockett Drive.’

1:40 p.m. Traffic complaint at the intersection of Main Street and Christopher Street, unfounded.

6:49 p.m. 9-1-1 hang-up call on South Elkins Brook Road checked.

Friday, February 17

7:27 a.m. Radar detail at Molly Ockett Drive.

9:10 a.m. Assist citizen on Fairview Drive.

Saturday, February 18

1:29 p.m. Suspicious activity on West Fryeburg Road.

9:03 p.m. Assist county deputy on Lovell Road.

Sunday, February 19

1:30 a. m. Assist another agency on Spring Street in Brownfield.

8:30 a.m. 9-1-1 hang-up call on Oxen Pull Road.

6:26 p.m. Motor vehicle crash at the intersection of Main Street and Bog Pond Road.

Monday, February 20

3:14 p.m. Assist citizen on Menotomy Road.

4:19 p.m. Welfare check on North Fryeburg Road.

6:54 p.m. Unwanted subjects on Portland Street.

Tuesday, February 21

7:56 a.m. Assist citizen on Bridgton Road.

Wednesday, February 22 12:46 a.m. Responding to a report of suspicious activity on Porter Road, police charged Kenneth Stinchfield, 24, of Fryeburg with violating conditions of release, unlawful possession of a scheduled drug, and operating a motor vehicle while his license was suspended/revoked.

3 p.m. Assist Fryeburg Rescue on Belair Estate Road.

8:38 p.m. Assist citizen on North Fryeburg Road.

Thursday, February 23

4:59 a.m. Assist citizen on Cobb Street.

8:10 a.m. Parking problem on Portland Street.

6:36 p.m. Death investigation on Haley Town Road.

7:08 p.m. Juvenile offenses on Cobb Street.

7:19 p.m. Medical emergency on Harbor Road.

9:44 p.m. Mental health event on Fairview Drive.

11:58 p.m. Burglar alarm at Bridgton Road business.

Friday, February 24

9:58 a.m. Responding to a call on West Fryeburg Road, police charged Remington J. Arnold, 29, of Fryeburg with domestic violence assault.

7:05 p.m. Assist Fryeburg Rescue on Pleasant Street.

8:39 p.m. Motor vehicle crash on Bridgton Road.

11:48 p.m. 9-1-1 hang-up call on Bog Pond Road.

Saturday, February 25

4:11 p.m. Responding to a call on West Fryeburg Road, police charged David S. Hatch Jr., 49, of Fryeburg with violation of a protection order and violating conditions of release.

10:43 p.m. Mental health event on Cobb Street.

Sunday, February 26

3:12 p.m. Assist Fryeburg Rescue on Woodland Street. 9:12 p.m. Suspicious activity behind a Main Street business.

Monday, February 27

4:41 a.m. Structure fire on Main Street.

Tworog said. Uses can include trail development, access to natural resources, and creating a dog park, as one idea mentioned in the survey results.

Peabody noted the town needs to approach lake access carefully, citing the problems it experienced in dealing with the rightof-way matter (“overburdening” a right-of-way in proximity to private land) at Salmon Point.

“We need to be careful we don’t get into situation that we find ourselves once again fighting for use (example, possibly a launch site for kayaks) and be overburdening. There are limitations for our use,” Peabody added.

Board chairperson Carmen Lone agreed with Tworog that she is not in favor of “discharging large tracts.”

Community Development Director Victoria “Tori” Hill said Open Space consultants plan to present to the Select Board in May, and write a final draft in June.

Peabody noted he is suggesting the sale of the two properties because there is discussions happening in Augusta regarding a change in the current law that would turn over “excessive profit” from the sale of tax-acquired property by the

town to the former owner.

Tworog added that if the town retained the lakefront property, it would help reduce environmental concerns of someone building near the lake, while also maintaining possible access.

McHatton disagreed, “A piece of property the town can’t get into should go back on tax rolls. It can bring in fair amount of money to be used for other capital issues the town has or open space issues, other than sitting on a piece of property not doing us any good. The list will give us plenty to talk about; I’m not against open space by any means.”

Quick takes

Splitting the Grant — Bridgton is expecting to receive $30,000 in Community Development Block Grant money for public service groups. Upon review of two applications, the town’s Community Development Advisory Committee recommended to the Select Board to split the amount between the Bridgton Food Pantry and the Navigator program at the Bridgton Community Center.

Select Board member Bob McHatton, who is also on the CDAC, said committee members took information home, studied it, later had a thorough discussion,

and ultimately made its recommendation.

“Well done I thought,”

McHatton said.

McHatton noted that the group also suggested that if the grant comes in at less than $30,000, the Food Pantry should be funded at its requested number ($15,000) and the remaining funding available be given to the Navigator program. The Select Board unanimously supported the recommendation.

Forum on Housing A public forum will be held on Wednesday, March 15 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Bridgton Community Center regarding LD 2003, an act to recommendations to increase housing opportunities in Maine by studying zoning and land use restrictions.

The forum will include Hilary Gove and Benjamin Averill of the Maine Department of Economic and Community Development, along with local State Representative Walter Riseman (I-Harrison).

The discussion regarding the new law will be followed by a Q/A period.

Run for office — Looking to get more involved in public service?

Nomination papers will be available this coming Monday, March 6 for the

following offices:

• 2 seats are open on the Bridgton Select Board (3-year terms)

• 1 seat is open on the Bridgton Planning Board (3-year term); and 1 alternate member seat

• 2 seats on the SAD 61 School Board (3-year terms)

• 1 Bridgton Water District Trustee post The filing. Deadline is the close of business hours on April 14.

K-9 school — Bridgton Police Officer Michael Chaine is starting K9 Academy training on March 20. Through a grant, Bridgton Police Chief Phil Jones will be bringing back a K9 unit to his force.

Budget talks — The Select Board begins its budget formation process starting this coming Monday, March 6 and Tuesday, March 7.

Town Manager Bob Peabody will open Monday’s session at 8:30 a.m. with an overview, followed by departmental reviews. Tuesday’s session begins at 9 a.m.

The public can watch the deliberations live virtually at GoToMeeting (the link is available on the town’s website) or later on LRTV. The workshops will not be open to public comment.

BRIDGTON, Page 6A

Fishing outing, on/off? Stay tuned

(Continued from Page 2A)

wind chill temperatures as cold as - 18 were forecasted.

“Like ice fishing all the time, it is weather dependent,” Chapin said.

Over the years, SLAA has offered free ice fishing event to veterans in the area.

“We meet right there in Naples at the United Methodist Church. SSAA will provide the traps, the bait, the expertise,” Chapin said.

“That is what we did last

year. [There was] quite a bit of participation,” he said.

“Over the years, we did Veterans focused events. We had a hut that stayed there for the season. Last year, in talking with some of the members of Naples parks and recreation, they said, ‘Let’s cooperate and do one together,’” he said. “They wanted to open the lens a little bit for the folks that would be invited. They were in need of family focused event. We said, ‘Sure.’”

“We did one last year. It

was very successful. There were 75 people who came out and tried ice fishing for first time. Three people caught fish — white perch, pickerel,” he said.

So, the Ice Fishing Open House for 2023 is still up in the air, he said. It could happen this Saturday or it could be postponed until another Saturday.

On the fliers, the contact person is Naples Community Activities Director Brian Crockett, (207) 693-6364, ext. 104.

“For last-minute, to check on ice conditions, call him before you leave home and make the ride down there,” he said.

Whenever the open house does take place, wearing the right gear is important.

“Ice cleats, aggressive ones that have strong steel tips or carbide tips,” Chapin said.

“I certainly do [recommend them]. I have not worn them at my own personal peril and I would not repeat that,” he said.

On the Bridgton Police blotter

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

Monday, February 20

2:45 p.m. Citizen assist on Main Street.

4:11 p.m. Welfare check on Stone Road.

Tuesday, February 21

2:12 a.m. Suspicious male at Woods Pond Beach area; police unable to locate.

12 p.m. Theft (due to insufficient funds) complaint on Malcom Road South.

6:16 p.m. Motor vehicle crash (car/deer) on South High Street; minor damage reported.

8:27 p.m. Vehicle off the road on North High Street.

11:45 p. m. Motor vehicle crash on South Bridgton Road.

Wednesday, February 22

5:18 a.m. Motor vehicle crash at the intersection of Sweden Road and Kilgore Road.

8:47 a.m. Parking problem at the intersection of Main Street and Fowler Street.

3:38 p.m. Report of juvenile allegedly attempting to use a fake ID to purchase alcohol at a Main Street store.

4:17 p.m. Assist citizen on Sensame Lane.

6:19 p.m. Police checked the South Bridgton Road area after receiving a report of a pick-up truck allegedly traveling toward Sebago at 100 mph; negative contact. Information passed along to the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office.

8:47 p.m. Motor vehicle crash on Main Street.

Thursday, February 23

8:51 a.m. Citizen assist on Smith Avenue.

11:24 a.m. Dispute between Airbnb owner and tenants.

8:32 p.m. Motor vehicle crash (car/deer) on North High Street; no reportable damage.

10:09 p.m. Mental health event on Kansas Road.

Friday, February 24

11:43 a.m. Following a traffic stop at the intersection of Harrison Road and North Bridgton Road, police arrested a man for operating a motor vehicle without a license.

4:11 p.m. Parking problem at the intersection of Main Street and Fowler Street.

8:04 p.m. Following a stop at the intersection of Highland Road and Dugway

Road, police arrested a man for operating a motor vehicle while under the influence and violating conditions of release.

9:07 p.m. Motor vehicle crash at the intersection of Knights Hill Road and North High Street, involving personal injury.

Saturday, February 25

2:05 p.m. Citizen assist on Mountain Road.

10:11 p.m. Parking problem on Highland Road.

Sunday, February 26

8:24 a.m. Police issued a female a summons for operating a motor vehicle without a license after leaving the scene of a crash on Hio Ridge Road.

2:59 p.m. Citizen assist on Ingalls Road.

11:08 p.m. Suspicious situation on Harrison Road.

11:32 p.m. Suspicious person/circumstance at Power House Road.

Regional Sports

March 2, 2023 The Bridgton News, Page 5A

On the Hardwood

Catching up with the Lake Region junior varsity girls’ basketball team:

Gray-NG 39, Lakers 24 — The Patriots used a 17-4 second quarter run to pull away from the Lakers. Jordan Blanton lead the LR offense with a 3-pointer, and finished with 8 points. Alison Bourgoin and Molly Wear each chipped in 4 points, while Alex Parmlee, Kaylee Maguire, Ella Martin and Destinee Knight each had 2 points.

Lakers 40, Fryeburg Academy 12 — Kaylee Maguire scored all of her game-high 12 points in the middle quarters to trigger a 26-8 run as the Lakers downed the Raiders. Destinee Knight knocked down a 3-pointer and finished with 9 points, while Mia Letarte netted 5 points, Mia Letarte added 4, Alison Bourgoin 4, Jordan Blanton 4, and Elle Martin had 2 points.

Grace Rydman lead the FA offense with 8 points, while Phoebe Sartory and Eleonora Mela each had 2 points.

York 51, Lakers 25 — The Lakers were able to trade hoops with the Wildcats in the first quarter, but were unable to keep pace as York took control with a 15-2 second quarter surge.

Kaylee Maguire was high scorer for the Lakers with 8 points, going 4-for-8 from the foul line. Jordan Blanton chipped in 7 points, Destinee Knight had 6, Molly Wear 3 and Mia Letarte 1.

QUITE A FINAL RUN

— The Lake Region varsity girls’ alpine ski team had quite an end of the season run! They placed second at the Class B State Meet and also took home the Good Sportsmanship Award. Pictured above, left to right are Coach Kurt Berger, Lyla Levesque, Ashley Pelletier, Reannah Dingley, Emily Rock, Lauren Roy, Laura Dutton, Katherine O’Connor and Coach Scott Cushing. Photos courtesy of Lynn Pelletier.

Chance connection lands Lake Region band uniforms

(Continued from Page 1A)

makes them feel a part of something much bigger than themselves. We all want to feel a part of something special.”

The West Springfield Music Parents Association went through their uniforms and accessories (shakos with plumes, berets, flag sets and flag poles) and put together 75 complete outfits. The Association unanimously approved the donation at their November meeting. Ward estimated that the West Springfield band numbers about 100. Band parents told Ward that the numbers have fluctuated over the years between 60 to 100.

“They gave me everything...they gave me a lot,” Ward said. Ward used a 15-passenger van (no seats) and traveled to Keene, N.H. where he met West Springfield folks in a Target parking lot.

“I couldn’t see out the back window, that’s how much stuff I had,” he said.

Some alterations will be needed. The WS sash has the school mascot, “Terriers,” written across it. It will be replaced by a blue with gold trim sash. The heavy wool jackets carry the “WS” insignia, which Ward will have removed and the “LR” inserted. Ward is hopeful that alterations will be made “sooner than later,” and Laker musicians will sport their new look this fall, as well as at UMass Band Day.

“What I really like is the cape. It was the kicker for me,” he said. “The uniforms are very sharp looking and very durable.”

The uniforms were purchased in 2000, Ward said, and often have a shelf life of 20 to 30 years. Uniforms, like these, average $400 to $500 each. Then, there is also maintenance costs (dry cleaning).

“With depreciation, we have here $10 to $15,000 worth of uniforms,” Ward estimated. “There are companies that do sleeker-looking uniforms, but I like tradition, like these.”

The SAD 61 School Board formally accepted at their Feb. 13 meeting the West Springfield Band Association’s donation.

“I have never met a bunch of friendlier people that were band parents. They were gracious and helpful from the word go. We’re not as big as West Springfield, the small bands from small towns matter too. It makes a big difference for a program like ours their willingness to pass those uniforms on so our kids can feel that same sense of pride in their playing and in their school,” Ward said.

“I have a couple of kids who want to model them at some point.”

In a front-page story published by the West Springfield Record regarding the uniform donation, Association treasurer Evangeline Gallacher said, “I think on a bigger picture scale, even with our kids and those students in Maine in a world that’s so divisive sometimes right now, this unity of, ‘Look, we don’t know you from anyone,’ and it happened to be one mom picked up on a need just out of nowhere. And, we were like, ‘Hey, as a community, that’s what West Springfield, that’s what the Marching Terriers stand for.”

Ward wonders if the uniforms might also entice others to come for band. Right now, LRHS has 20 band members, and Ward projects that number to rise to 30 next year.

“Our kids are really amazing. The blessing I have is that I have 20 kids in that room that want to be there,” Ward said. “We have busy times ahead. We’re an active group.”

Indeed, the band schedule is quite full. Ward and his musicians recently played during the Lake Region girls’ basketball tournament game at the Banks Expo in Portland, receiving high marks from Maine Principals’ Association officials (“We’re glad they’re back. They add so much to the atmosphere here,” one MPA official said).

“I like doing the tournament games. They actually had us play more than a normal basketball game here (at Lake Region),” Ward said. “We played pre-game, halftime, during timeouts, and at the end of quarters. We got a bunch of music in.”

Along with local performances this spring, Ward will be taking the band to New London, Conn. on March 11 for the New England Band Symposium, hosted by the National Band Association.

“It’s great exposure for the kids,” said Ward regarding field trips such as the UMass Band Day. “It’s a nice view of a college campus and how a marching band works. It gives them something to strive for and think about. It’s a very long day, a very long trip, but it’s worth it.”

Ward is both relieved and proud of the progress made in returning the music program “back to normal” following the Covid-19 pandemic. Ward was hired as high school band director in fall 2020.

“I did my interview in March and the principal told me she didn’t know what the band program was going to look like (due to the pandemic). She asked me if I still wanted to come on board. I said, ‘absolutely, I do,’” Ward recalled. “I saw a band here that was wellrehearsed. At my second interview, I had the chance to conduct the band. I got

to know them, and something really clicked about the kids, the atmosphere in the room, the feel of the overall vibe of the band members. It felt really good. I left Lake Region really wanting the job. I heard the next day, I nailed it. I did about 20 hours of prep work because I really wanted this job. It’s a great opportunity.”

His first year, Ward worked with four to eight students.

“Luckily, we were able to build numbers back. I am proud of our growth,” he said. “I look at any band or musical group as a jewel in the school environment. It’s such a positive energy. I know when I was in school, I looked forward to band every day. I want to bring that same spirit here because this school deserves to have that — a well-rounded music program.”

And now thanks to the generosity of the West Springfield Band Association, a good-looking band program, as well.

Lakers 42, Poland 33 — Alison Bourgoin went 4-for-4 from the foul line in the fourth quarter as the Lakers were finally able to shake the Knights with a 14-5 spurt to close out the game, and the victory. Bourgoin scored 8 of her game-high 14 points during the deciding final frame.

Ella Martin had a strong outing with 10 points. Kaylee Maguire recorded 6 points, Molly Wear 4, Alex Parmlee 4 and Jordan Blanton had 4 points.

Spring sports, clinics sign ups

Lake Region Varsity Softball Youth Softball Clinics at the Bridgton Town Hall (North High Street) on March 5, 12, 19 and 26. Grades 3-6 from 10 to 11 a.m.; Grades 7-8 from 11:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. Open to all LR youth softball players.

Register now for the 2023 season at www.bridgtonmaine.org

Youth Baseball Preseason Clinics, Grades 3-4 on March 4 and March 11, Grades 5-6 on March 18, 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at the Lake Region High School gym. Clinics include infield and outfield fielding, throwing and catcher’s work, and hitting inside the cage.

Registration for Baseball, Softball, and Quickball is open. To register in Naples, please go to www.townofnaples.org/recreration

If you have any questions or would like to speak to someone about volunteer opportunities, please contact Brian Crockett at 207-693-6364 ext. 104 or naplesrec@ townofnaples.org/recreation

Bridgton Rec youth baseball and softball registration is open. Baseball up to 12U/Grade 6; Tri-County Baseball up to 13U-15U for Grades 7-8; softball up to 14U/Grade 8. Registration deadline March 31. www. BridgtonMaine.org. Season starts in April; games May to June; extra play in July.

For more information, contact Rec Director Gary Colello at 647-1126 or e-mail rec@bridgtonmaine.org

Bridgton Rec Run Club, sponsored by Team Long Run, Wednesdays from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m., ages 5-12, May 3 to June 14, register at www.bridgtonmaine.org/BridgtonRecreation

Lake Region boys’ and girls’ lacrosse, sponsored by Bridgton Rec, register by March 31 at www.bridgtonmaine.org. Open to all Lake Region K-6 students. Season begins in late March; practice twice a week; Saturday games in late April; away games Windham, Gray, Portland area, etc. Scholarships and loaner equipment available. Volunteer coaches needed.

Bridgton Youth Archery at the Bridgton Town Hall (North High Street), Wednesdays from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m., for ages 10-17. Cost: $45 for three-week sessions. To register, go to www.bridgtonmaine.org/bridgton-recreation

Open range for participants from 4:30 to 5 p.m.

Frequently asked questions, go to pmopcarchery.org/ faq/

The PMOPC Archery Club’s instruction is designed to train and encourage archers to participate in target archery with the opportunity to compete in local, regional and national tournaments. Once the basics of the 10 Steps of Shooting are practiced, archery becomes a mental challenge. Archery teaches mental discipline and responsibility, and helps a child develop confidence and a sense of accomplishment. PMOPC is focused on safety, fun and friendship.

Denmark Mountain hikes

• It is winter, and you must have a full winter pack for all hikes. This includes puffy jackets, head lamps, microspikes and snowshoes. Also, please note that hiking times will vary greatly based on trail conditions.

March 3, Easy, Mount Tire’m (1,073 feet), Waterford, ME – 1.75 mi RT, 554 ft. elevation gain. RT hiking 1 hour. RT driving 1.5 hours. Meet at the Denmark Church at 9 a.m. Postponed twice because of weather. We have hiked Tire’m 13 times over the years, the last time in May 2021, but have never done it in winter. We’ll spot cars at the Daniel Brown Trailhead on Plummer Hill Road and hike to the summit on the

new trail off Grover Road. Don’t know if the trailheads will be plowed or not. We may have to park alongside the road on either end.

March 5, Easy, Hiker Sunday at the Denmark Congregational Church, 10 a.m. The Denmark Mountain Hikers do this every year to take part in the service and meet others in the congregation that supports our hiking group. After the service, we will head downstairs to share food and stories of our hikes, and present hiking awards. Please bring some goodies to share.

March 10, Easy, Roberts Farm to Town Trail (1,061 ft.), Norway – 2.2 miles, 139 ft. elevation gain. RT hiking time 2 ½ hours. RT driving 2 hours.

Meet at the Denmark Church at 9 a.m. Roberts Farm is an easy ramble in the woods along the snowshoe trail. We’ve done this twice, the last time in January 2019 when the snow was deep. This time, we’ll hike the new Farm to Town trail, ending up at the Café Nomad in the village. Will need to spot cars at either end of the trail.

March 17, Moderate, Burnt Meadow Mountain (1,575 ft.) Brownfield — 2.4 miles RT, 1,100 ft. elevation gain. RT hiking time 3 hours. RT driving 1 hour. Meet at the Denmark Church at 9 a.m. We last hiked Burnt Meadow in September 2021. For this winter climb, we have two options — via the Twin

SCHEDULE, Page 6A

Bridgton Select Board notes

(Continued from Page 4A)

Liquor license extended — When Lynn and Matt Williams purchased the Noble House on Highland Road, they gave the bed and breakfast venue a full makeover, inside and out. They created some quaint, relaxing spaces on the property where guests can unwind and enjoy the outdoors. Naturally, the inn owners envisioned guests being able to enjoy a glass of wine or beer or favorite alcoholic drink while sitting back in a lounge chair or enjoying snacks at the picnic table.

The couple recently learned that their liquor license was only for indoors, so they returned to the Select Board to gain approval for outdoor alcohol use. During Tuesday’s public hearing, concerns — traffic and parking, lights on “all night” in the beer

garden, and a “bar open” portable sign placed along Highland Road “indicating it is a public bar” — raised by a neighbor at the prior hearing were again mentioned.

Lynn Williams pointed out that there is no beer garden, just an improved space with picnic tables. She also dispelled the idea that lights were left on all night, noting the lights are on a timer.

“We cleaned up property and made it more useable outside,” she said.

Planning Board chairperson Deb Brusini mentioned that at some point the inn owners may need to visit planners regarding changes in services that could result in larger impacts upon the town.

“The duty of the Planning Board is to consider the impact to the town and whether it meets the standards,” Brusini said.

Select Board member

Ken Murphy noted that he used to attend music venues at the Noble House (under previous ownership).

“She used to have successful people appearing there, and there were no problems,” he said.

Board chairperson Carmen Lone questioned that if the bar becomes “public” rather than used solely by inn guests, whether it’s a change of use?

Williams clarified that her husband Matt’s idea was to open the inn on a Saturday/Sunday to the public to enjoy a drink and get a chance to see the facility — if such an option is acceptable.

Williams noted the main interest is to be able to allow guests to use alcohol on the Noble House grounds. Select Board member Carrye Castleman-Ross felt the Williamses “have done all the appropriate steps and

Town meeting vs ballot box?

(Continued from Page 3A)

June ballot is when everyone gets to send out their little flyers with negative information and things don’t happen,” he said.

“I would rather see it debated on town meeting floor,” Shane stated. “That is my motion. It was seconded by Kevin. If we don’t like it, make another motion.”

That is what happened. Eventually, another motion was made.

“I am dead set against the motion to put it to town meeting,” Grattelo stated immediately before the vote.

First, the board voted, 2-3, for the ordinance to appear as a warrant article at 2023 town meeting. Shane and Rogers voted in favor.

The new motion was to send events venue to June election. The board voted, 4-1, with Shane opposing.

During the discussion, Grattelo had been arguing for the ballot box based on higher attendance. Some people in the audience preferred the town meeting format for a variety of reasons, mostly the ability to ask and debate.

“I just don’t understand the argument that we as a town are comfortable with the fact that 56 people

can determine the direction of our town. But, we aren’t comfortable with a new policy that allows 1,000 people to vote on the town,” Grattelo said.

These were the comments almost immediately before the vote.

“I honestly believe that we have a better chance as a community if 1,000 people vote to get it right, than filling up a room with 50 or 80 of your neighbors who have pre-decided how they will vote,” Grattelo said.

Some people in the audience felt they were being accused of stacking the deck or somehow cheating at voting.

Later, Grattelo addressed that, saying, “I am implying that the motion on the floor is designed in a specific way to get a result.”

Shane responded to Grattelo’s comment on a larger voting base by mentioning the drawback of confusing the voter with ballot language.

“Last year, there were two articles that failed. They failed because people were confused. We made it confusing for them,” Shane said.

“Last year, we took a major step forward in getting more people involved in voting,” Grattelo said.

There was some discussion, an idea brought up by Colin Brackett, to use a portion of town meeting as a Q&A for the ballot questions coming up at the June election. No decisions were made but the concept was Brackett favored ballot box because it gives more people in the community an opportunity to vote.

“My issue is that people can’t make meetings, people who work nights. It is no longer farmers and people with 9-to-5 jobs. Lot of people can’t be here. That is my only issue with town meeting,” Brackett said.

People also talked about poor behavior such as heckling other voters during town meeting.

Resident Bob Caron II talked about a time he was on the board of selectmen when the town meetings moved to Lake Region High School, with residents’ seating spread between the theater and the gymnasium.

“The season before hand, so many people got ridiculed by the people next to them. Too many residents got tired of being ridiculed for speaking their opinion, which they shouldn’t be. You shouldn’t have voting residents go in to town meeting and being ridiculed,” Caron said.

been a good neighbor.” She encouraged the inn owners to continue conversations with the neighbors.

“I appreciate the efforts you have made,” she said.

The board voted 5-0 to extend the liquor license to outdoor use.

Good stewards — The board approved the renewal of a trail use agreement between the town and the Lake Region ATV Club regarding town property at Sandy Creek. The land agreement is good for a three-year period

“They take good care of our property; a very good organization,” Town Manager Peabody said.

Board Concerns

Final board member comments on the night:

Ken Murphy thanked Public Works for “keeping us safe on the roads.”

Bob McHatton asked that a future agenda item be a discussion regarding the present rule of “taking people’s property from them.” He pointed out that many folks struggling financially due to inflation, putting their ability to maintain their homes and pay property taxes at risk. He cited the doubling of Food Pantry patrons from 250 to 500.

“I want to get people’s feelings about the select board’s policy,” he said.

Town Manager Peabody noted that the policy had a big change in 2020 adding wording addressing health and safety violations.

Carmen Lone again brought up her concern regarding a divot near the Stevens Brook bridge area on Portland Road. “My concern it is more than a pothole,” she said. Peabody and Public Works will look

at it, and contact MDOT.

Lone also congratulated the Chamber of Commerce, the Rec Department and all people involved in the recent Winter Carnival. “It was a great event, the

weather was super, and thank you to everyone for a great community event,” she said. Next regular Select Board meeting is Tuesday, March 14 at 5 p.m.

DMH schedule

(Continued from Page 5A)

Brook Trail or from the Dugway side by the old ski towers. Will decide as we get closer to the date.

March 24, Easy, Hawk Mountain (1,061 ft.), Waterford – 2.8 miles RT, 139 ft. elevation gain. RT hiking time 2 hours. RT driving 1 hour.

Meet at the Denmark Church at 9 a.m. Hawk Mountain is an easy, short hike that we have climbed many times. The Western Foothills Land Trust has added several new trails for us to explore and we will have several loop trails to start and finish from the new parking lot on Hawk Mt. Road.

March 31, Moderate, The Bluff (2,250 ft.), Pinkham Notch, N.H. — 5.0 miles RT, 400 ft. elevation gain. RT hiking time 4 hours. RT Driving time 2.5 hours.

Meet at the Denmark Church at 8 a.m. This is a new hike to the Bluff on the Great Gulf Trail from Route 16 north of the AMC Pinkham Notch Center. The Bluff is high gravelly bank, where there is a good view of the gulf and the mountains around it.

Questions: If you have questions about the difficulty of a hike, or for any other information, please call John Patrick at 207-756-2247 (johnfp@earthlink.net).

If you would like to meet us at a trailhead or somewhere along the route to the trailhead, please contact Allen Crabtree at 207-653-9271 (denmarkmthiker@gmail.com). Hikes are subject to change or cancellation.

DAC camps

DENMARK — It may be winter, but it is time to think about summer camps offered at the Denmark Arts Center.

You may be building an igloo now, but this summer you could be choreographing your own hula-hoop performance or having your own art show! DAC has a fun summer planned for you!

You asked for more art classes and Ms. Benish is back!

• June 27-30, Advanced Art Camp for 11-year-olds and up

• July 5-7, Beginning Art Camp for 7-10-year-olds

• July 11-14, Hoop Dance Camp for 8-year-olds and up

• July 24-28, Musical Theater Camp for 7-year-olds and up

Online registration link will be available May 1. If you would like to register by printing out a registration form and send a check, you can do that now! Hey, you may be interested in a scholarship for your child or grandchild!

Casco meeting policy

(Continued from Page 2A)

“We need policies and procedures so we are all on the same page,” she said.

“We should continue to use the clickers most definitely,” Fernandes said.

She asked some questions about the clickers, which Ward answered. Casco purchased 200 clickers jointly with the Town of Naples. The towns won’t have to use the clickers simultaneously. Naples holds its town meeting in late April, and Casco’s town

meeting takes place in June.

According to Ward, a special town meeting becomes necessary if a firetruck blows an engine and needs a new one, or a road wipes out and has to be rebuilt.

It has been customary in Maine municipalities to reserve a date in late January for special town meeting, he said. Ward asked if special town meeting should be put on the calendar, instead of being optional or as needed.

“I don’t mind having two

on the schedule,” Selectman Scott Avery said.

Plummer disagreed.

“I think you should leave it off the schedule. I think we want to avoid special town meetings as much as we can except for emergency meetings,” Plummer said.

Resident Tom Mulkern, who was sitting in the audience, offered a historical viewpoint.

“Twenty [20] years ago, this subject came up. If there was a need for a special town meeting, it should take place in January so that people knew it was coming. It was for emergency situations. It is for something that can’t wait until June. That was a heated discussion 20 years ago. That is why the January thing came up,” he said.

In Ye Olden Times

by Michael Davis BHS Assistant Director

A (cold) blast from the past

Howdy neighbor!

The stormy March has come at last,” declared The Bridgton News of March 2, 1883, noting how “Men rode to town meeting last year in wagons… This year, unless there comes a Judas of a thaw, they will be on runners, with three feet between them and terra firma.” My, how times have changed; in that we now observe our grand, annual town meeting in June, of course! But all in all, it is fair to say that while we have more snow this year than 1882, we certainly have less than 1883, and that occasion brings to mind “Some Facts about the Weather” which were published in The News of this week 140 years ago. Though a little antiquated in their manner of representing temperature — so far as I can tell, 20d.5 equates to 20-and-a-half degrees Fahrenheit — these old running averages for the temperature through December, January and February are still interesting. I would be curious to see how they relate to more recent data. I turn us now to the figures of our olden correspondent “W.G.K.,” who reported on March 1, 1883: “The mean temperature for the past three months has been 17d.9, which is 3d.4 colder than the average for the past eight years, at least. The mean temperatures for these years have been as follows: For the three months ending Feb., 1876, 21d.4; 1877, 20d.0; 1878, 24d.8; 1879, 19d.2; 1880, 24d.3; 1881, 19d.0; 1882, 24d.5; 1883, 17d.9.

The three months of the present winter, have been noted as being uniformly cold, and in the absence of mild days, having had but one thaw during the winter, that being the 17th of February. Thirty-three days have been clear; twenty-four, stormy; and thirty-three, cloudy and fair. There have been seventeen days that the sun was wholly obscured for the day. Of the thirteen Sabbath days, seven have been stormy, three cloudy, and three pleasant.” Till next time!

Blessing Bags

To the Editor: For those of us with a Christian outlook, the season of Lent is upon us — a time for prayer, fasting and alms giving. It’s a good time to focus on uncomfortable realities that we could help change: homelessness, for example.

I have witnessed the unfolding of homelessness in my lifetime. It started in the 1980s with the dismantlement of state institutional care to be replaced by care within communities. That transition seems to have failed, and thus we see people standing at intersections holding signs asking for help. We learn that people experiencing homelessness form camps of tents only to be shooed away by municipal law enforcement. Dogs and cats fare better than people in our culture it seems.

My church is promoting a project called “Blessing Bags.”

The idea is to place small toiletries and non-perishable food in paper bags that can be handed to people out of a car window at intersections and at the entrances and exits of supermarkets. While not adequate in addressing the needs of people experiencing homelessness, the bags convey a gesture of solidarity in the hope that America will become a better democratic society. There are simply not enough church volunteers to manage the crisis of homelessness. Government policy is best suited to eliminate this scourge, and the American people need to show the way.

I won’t go into the reasons that people find themselves homeless, but I feel certain that laziness is not one of them.

Red-wings use clear communication

A few years ago, a friend told me about some birds in her yard that reminded her of Red-winged Blackbirds, but they had no red markings on the wings, just some pale yellow. I had asked her if she knew that the male Red-winged Blackbird’s brilliant red epaulet is bordered by a band of pale yellow, above a thin band of white, and that they can cover the red epaulet to show just the yellow, or just the white. By covering both those colors, the wing appears solid black. She then realized the all-black birds in her yard were, indeed, Red-winged Blackbirds.

Bird Watch

by Jean Preis BN Columnist

My prayer is that elected officials and policy-makers in our nation develop policies and programs to ensure that people experiencing homelessness receive the help they need to live lives of dignity and affirmation of their worth by having suitable abodes.

Sally Chappell Bridgton

To Heal

To The Editor: “If my People who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from Heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land,” — 2 Chronicles 7:14.

Marge Silverblade Harrison

Not above the law

To The Editor: Americans agree on the importance of the rule of law: the idea that we are all subject to our community’s rules. As Margaret Thatcher noted, “We can’t have freedom without a rule of law.”

Unfortunately, Stark Storage seems to think that our community’s laws do not apply to it. Stark Storage constructed a facility on North High Street across from Mountain Road that has two building permit violations.

First, the facility has an internally illuminated sign. The Planning Board gave thorough consideration to the owner’s request to have an internally lit sign and rejected that request. More specifically, the Planning Board’s Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law, approved on March 16, 2021, stated that: “There will be a free-standing road sign (on

These birds are abundant and widespread, breeding throughout most of North America, and as far south as Central America. Their diet consists mostly of seeds, so in winter they congregate in huge flocks in areas with an abundance of seed-bearing plants. In early spring, the males begin to move north, where they spend several weeks before the females arrive, dividing the still-frozen marshes into breeding territories. When the male has established a breeding territory, typically in a marshy area with dense vegetation such as cattails, he defends it by perching on top of a conspicuous tall plant, flashing the red on his wings, and calling out the familiar konk-kaREE, or ok-a-LEE to advertise ownership of his territory. Females are inconspicuous, a drab streaky brown suitable

for disappearing visually into the marshes where they nest. The female typically chooses the actual nest site and, often with the help of her mate, builds a nest near the base of strong grassy-like vegetation, just above the surface of the water.

Both male and female Red-winged Blackbirds are highly polygynous, with multiple mates, according to Birds of the World (www.birdsoftheworld.org). As many as 90% of males may have more than one female nesting on his territory, and may mate with as many as 15 females. Studies have also shown that up to 99% of females pair up with males from other territories, and ¼ to ½ of nestlings are related to males other than the territorial male.

RED-WINGS, Page 2B

The benefits of recycling

Does recycling really benefit the environment?

At Bridgton’s current rate of 15%, not much. Well, it’s better than nothing, right? But hey, do you really want to settle for that. Do our children and grandchildren want us to “just settle” on the world they’ll inherit? No, of course not. And there is no reason for them to.

We have a town transfer station in close proximity with helpful and knowledgeable staff. We have a multitude of recycling tools and information at our fingertips via ecomaine’s Recyclopedia and your Bridgton Recycling Committee. The current recycling format of single-sort recycling is a simple process. We are a continually evolving and intelligent life form and we can do better. We can do it!

Back to the original question — Does recycling really benefit the environment? Absolutely! Recycling creates a circular economy by reducing waste and allowing for the continuous use of resources. Earth’s natural resources aren’t endless, but limited. Sourcing from virgin materials means we are extracting raw materials from the earth and cutting down trees. Trees are a renewable resource, but grow slowly. Mining is risky and expensive and depleted materials cannot be restored.

North High Street) that will be externally illuminated as a condition of project approval. The Board imposed this condition for approval of an externally lit sign, in order to maintain the character of the wooded and natural dark corridor, and to not detract from nearby properties and the area. Currently, there are no internally lit signs on this Mixed-Use District Corridor, and adding such was deemed intrusive. The applicant had previously, and voluntarily, agreed to an externally lit sign on February 4, and sub-

Recycling Matters

By Kate Fitzcharles Bridgton Recycling Committee

Both disrupt wildlife habitat. New materials cost more to manufacture and create more greenhouse gas than reusing recovered materials.

Making products from recycled aluminum uses 95% less energy, recycled plastics 70% less, recycled glass 40% less. Recycling paper decreases the number of trees that would need to be cut. Global deforestation is a massive problem around the world. Trees remove carbon dioxide from the air — the air that we and all other life need to survive. Think back on the recent pandemic and how you had to wear a mask everywhere. That could happen again because the air isn’t safe to breath. Utilizing scrap steel

BENEFITS, Page 2B

sequently reversed that in an e-mail communication February 13, citing maintenance concerns; the Board argued on February 24 that maintenance of lights, and other general maintenance could be largely avoided through certain design features such as how the lighting is mounted.”

Accordingly, the permit’s Conditions of Approval require an “externally lit sign.”

Second, the Planning Board stated that: “…cupolas will adorn the peak of each building, … which serves to improve the character of the buildings. The manner in which the buildings are situated, and the aforementioned features allow the structures to blend into the natural surroundings and provides a reasonable view from the street and abutting properties.”

Last I checked, there are no cupolas on the buildings, another permit violation.

It is my understanding that the town has made efforts to get Stark Storage in compliance with its building permit, but the company has yet to do so. The idea that anyone is above the law is noxious to our system. Accordingly, Stark Storage should be

brought into compliance as soon as possible.

David Lyons Bridgton

Editor’s Note: According to Bridgton Code Enforcement Officer Brenda Day, “A violation letter has been sent. Lights to be turned off or removed immediately. They have stated that they will return to the Planning Board to ask for the condition to be removed.”

Adios, y’all

To The Editor: The results of an in-depth study by the Rockefeller Institute of Government published in 2021 found that wealthier, generally blue states, pay significantly more than their per capita share into the federal treasury, and red states get significantly more than their share of the benefit of how those taxes are spent.

Mitch McConnell’s poorer Kentucky, for example. In fact, seven of the 10 top recipient states are red states and Maine as a poorer and demographically old state ranks high on the list as well and benefits commensurately: https://www. minnpost.com/eric-blackink/2021/12/what-wouldhappen-if-blue-states-stopped-

paying-for-red-states/ Now, the cognitively challenged simian Q-Anon Republican representative from Georgia’s 14th District’s seditious call (tweet) for a red state/blue state dissolution of the republic — “a national divorce” — at first upset me, but after thinking about it from a cost-benefit perspective I concluded that:

1) Good riddance!

2) As a blue state resident and Maine taxpayer paying the feds more taxes per annum than Dolt “45,” this would be a win-win for us blue states. 3) The doltish lady unsurprisingly hasn’t thought this through very well. Her tweet also excoriated what she called [sic] “the sick and disgusting woke culture issues shoved down our throats by the Democrat’s traitorous America Last policies, we are done.” Be assured that she is so unconscious as to never be self “awakened” nor will her reactionary national divorce stem the rising tide of a national racial consciousness raising. She appears to think this national divorce (secession) would somehow save the red state MAGA-Q’s from “woke” and abracadabra that’ll all be gone in the bargain? Maybe

FROZEN BEAUTY at Shorey Park in Bridgton, captured in this photo by Alexa Baumgardner.

Jon Chappell Bridgton

Letters

(Continued from Page 1B)

it would! Bingo, have at it, but mind you Marge, no more Planned Parenthood nor food stamps, Methadone clinics nor cotton and tobacco subsidies. Tfg can be president of your redux Confederacy and even get his picture on your new currency like Jefferson Davis before him.

America is essentially two America’s already as those southern states ignore and trample upon federal elections and settled law, like Roe. The “southern border’s” all yours — De Santis, Abbott, and Marge, so let’s see how much better you can deal with it than Biden, whom you all incessantly malign. And don’t be sending any more migrants on planes and busses up this way to our blue country.

Jon St. Laurent Lovell

Fact checker insurrection

To The Editor: The additional information on Jan. 6 provided by your editor was interesting, but entirely missed the point at issue. A number of people for political reasons have cast Jan. 6 as an “insurrection.”

The facts cited do not miraculously change a riot, albeit compared to a BLM or Antifa effort a pretty anemic one, to an insurrection. As pointed out, people don’t go home to dinner from an insurrection.

The continued effort to characterize this as an insurrection serves as a perfect example of the technique of if you misrepresent something often enough some people will be fooled into accepting it.

Don Vose Naples

Opinions

Red-wings use clear communication

(Continued from Page 1B)

How do the males defend their territories and maintain their status in such a complex social system? In searching for answers, researchers Andrew Hansen and Sievert Rohwer considered how we humans rely on a wide variety of visual symbols to indicate status, such as military insignia or law enforcement badges, and wondered if Red-winged Blackbirds might use their red epaulets as “badges” to communicate their social status and intentions.

According to The Birder’s Handbook by Ehrlich, Dobkin, and Wheye, the researchers wanted to learn whether the Red-wings, upon entering another male’s territory, purposely signal their peaceful or aggressive intentions by displaying or covering their red epaulets. They experimented by using taxidermy mounts, dead birds stuffed and mounted to resemble live birds, which they placed in territories belonging to male Red-winged Blackbirds. Some of the mounts’ epaulets were dyed black, some were half covered with black, and some of the mounts had their red epaulets fully displayed. On other mounts, a second red epaulet was glued on to double the amount of red visible. They observed that territorial males reacted aggressively to the mounts with red epaulets. The more red visible, the

The benefits of recycling

(Continued from Page 1B)

uses 40% less water and creates 97% less mining waste. Extraction, conversion and transportation of raw materials requires fossil fuel.

Reducing our dependence on raw materials helps curb carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gas. Textile recovery could remove 10% of solid waste. Composting our food and other organic waste decreases the amount of methane gas created by dumping food waste in landfills and transforms it into a usable product-soil. Waste reduction in our landfills translates to less fossil fuel and lower emissions.

The EPA stated that in 2018, composting, recycling and the resulting decrease in MSW led to a savings of 193 million metric tons of CO2 from the atmosphere. That is the equivalent of removing 42 million vehicles from the road.

So, how do we do better? Taking care of the environment does take more than recycling. It takes using products to their end of life, repurposing and reusing items, purchasing products with less packaging, growing our food more sustainably and so on. And recycling remains a tremendously important part of the solution.

So how do you help the environment by recycling? First and foremost, by recycling as much as you can and doing it correctly. ecomaine’s Recyclopedia is a great online source as is the transfer station staff. If you don’t know, please ask. Thank you for your continued efforts toward meeting our recycling goal.

Legals

Harrison Water District

The Harrison Water District will be having their annual election on March 20, 2023, from noon to 5 p.m. at the Harrison Town Office. There are two openings for the Board of Directors for the upcoming term of three (3) years. The trustees shall be a bona fide resident of the Town of Harrison or Bridgton. 2T9

LEGAL NOTICE

LEGAL NOTICE

Casco Self Storage

Pursuant to the rental agreement between Casco Self Storage and the party named below, their personal property shall become the property of Casco Self Storage on March 1, 2023, in order to satisfy all liens brought on by default of payment.

Jessica Charron, Casco Maine

TOWN OF BRIDGTON

3 CHASE STREET, SUITE 1 BRIDGTON, MAINE 04009

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC HEARING

BRIDGTON PLANNING BOARD

The Town of Bridgton Planning Board will hold a Public Hearing at 5 p.m., Tuesday, March 7, 2023,

PUBLIC NOTICE

TOWN OF HARRISON

Nomination Papers

Nomination papers will be available Monday, March 6th in the Clerk’s office, 20 Front St., Harrison, for the following positions:

2 Selectboard Member seats 3 year terms

1 Planning Board Member seat 3 year term

1 Appeals Board Member seat 5 year term Papers are due back in the Harrison Town Clerk’s Office by 4 p.m. on Friday, April 14, 2023. 4T9-EOW

Public Notice

TOWN OF NAPLES

Tax-Aquired Property Bids

The Town of Naples is accepting sealed bids for the purchase of the following tax-acquired property: Tax Map R05, Lot 5A located at the corner of Lake House Road and Mayberry Lane.

A bid packet is available for download at townofnaples. org/bids or at the Town Office.

Sealed bids are due by noon on Wednesday, March 22, 2023, at which time they will be opened publicly and read. 1T7,9

Public Notice

TOWN OF NAPLES

Planning Board Meeting

The Naples Planning Board will hold a meeting on Tuesday, March 7, 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:

greater the aggression by the territorial bird, and some mounts with the extra red epaulet were violently attacked and severely damaged. The experiments supported their theory that a male a Red-winged Blackbird uses his epaulet as a “badge.” The bird who displays his red epaulet is declaring aggression, and the bird who covers his epaulet is communicating submission. The owner of the breeding territory, displaying his red epaulets to another male, is prepared to defend his territory. A bird who intends only to pass peacefully through that occupied territory covers his epaulet and goes through unharmed.

The Red-winged Blackbirds in my friend’s yard, who were sharing a food source and not defending territories, had covered their red epaulets to show only the pale yellow border, indicating their intentions toward each other were relatively peaceful. How simple. How straightforward.

From Washington

by Angus King United States Senator

Serving those who served

Maine’s greatest strength has always been our unique heritage and strength of character. It’s a truth that shines bright across our state and in the nearly 10 percent of Maine people who answered the call to serve our country. Since my time as governor, meeting our solemn commitment to veterans has been among my most important priorities. This month, I was deeply honored to join the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee (SVAC) to continue the work of helping these brave men and women and their families.

A few days after being appointed to the committee, I sat down with a group of Maine veteran leaders to hear about the issues affecting their community. One of their top concerns is the coordination between the Department of Defense and the Department of Veterans’ Affairs during the transition out of service. Both departments should work harder to provide a “warm handoff” to help veterans integrate back into their communities and find housing, jobs, and care. Currently, we’re just not doing enough. We should create something like a buddy system where there is a direct, personal contact between a transitioning service member and a local veteran. Someone should meet these

SERVED, Page 3B

Public Notice

TOWN OF NAPLES

Maine School Administrative District No. 61 Referendum

The Town of Naples will conduct an election on March 7, 2023, for the MSAD 61 Referendum. Hours: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Location: 15 Village Green Lane

A sample ballot can be found at www.townofnaples. org/notice 1T9

PUBLIC NOTICE

TOWN OF HARRISON

Notice for Spring Road Postings

March 1 through May 1 per MRSA Title 29A Section 2395.

Note: We will post our public ways for load limits, where applicable, per MRSA Title 29A Section 2395. The posting is done to protect our roadways from damage during the Spring thaw cycle. Most roads throughout the rural section of our community are posted and strict compliance has been requested. Should there need to be a use of any posted road, the Town, where applicable with the weather conditions will do their best to facilitate use. State roads Rt. 117, Rt. 35 and Bolsters Mills Road are not posted. 2T8

This week’s game solutions

members of the Casco Selectboard for a three (3) year term.

• One (1) member of the Casco/Naples Transfer Station Council for a two (2) year term to fill a vacancy.

• One (1) member of the Casco/Naples Transfer Station Council for a three (3) year term.

• One (1) member of the MSAD #61 Board of Directors for a three (3) year term.

The filing deadline for nomination papers is by the close of business hours at the Casco Town Office on Monday, June 9, 2023. 1T9

1. New Business

A change in use for the business located at 974 Roosevelt Trail (Tax Map U25, Lot 36)

2. Tabled Business

An application for a proposed solar farm located at 245 River Road (Tax Map R11, Lot 75)

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

SCENIC trail junction at Bald Pate in South Bridgton. (Photo by Pam Ward)

Serving those who served

(Continued from Page 2B)

men and women at the airport, say “welcome home,” and guide them during this critical period in their lives.

Our country spends billions of dollars recruiting servicemembers into the military and we should invest just as many resources to help our servicemembers rejoin civilian life.

Improving this handoff is also among the most important ways to tackle behavioral and mental healthcare challenges.

In 2020, Maine had a veteran suicide rate of nearly 35 per 100,000 while the New England rate was only 24 per 100,000. Maine veterans also face a tragically high overdose rate that resulted in 54 deaths in 2022 alone. It’s heartbreaking, and frankly, unacceptable that our country is failing so many of these men and women.

Fortunately, we’ve already taken action on the committee in the first few days of Congressional activity. In early February, we passed the Improving Servicemember Transition to Reduce Veteran Suicide Act, which will create a pilot program to reduce veteran suicides by expanding counseling and support resources during the transition period. And thanks to a bipartisan bill I cosponsored in 2020 designating 9-8-8 as the national suicide prevention and mental health crisis hotline, veterans can now press 1 to access specialized line specifically for them.

Among the most important things I heard during my listening session with Maine veteran leaders was also the need for better oversight and proper implementation of the programs and benefits we currently have.

We’ve made a lot of progress over the last few years to expand support for our veterans. The bipartisan PACT Act, which provides support to veterans exposed to burn pits and other hazards, is a great example. At the end of the day, however, execution is just as important as vision. Passing legislation is just the beginning and follow-through is key — we have to ensure Maine veterans are able to get the support and care they have been promised in a timely,

Herbert G. Hurd

CORNISH — Herbert “Herbie” Gene Hurd, 67, passed away on February 22, 2023, at Maine Medical Center after a courageous battle with lung cancer.

Herbie was born in Bridgton on September 1, 1955, a son of the late Merwin and Marcia (Bell) Hurd. The youngest of six children, Herbie grew up in Lovell, and spent his active childhood playing sports, doing chores, and enjoying the great Maine outdoors. At the age of 16, Herbie left Lovell to live with family friends in Bath, where he attended Morse High School. A three-letter varsity athlete, known by his peers as “Hurricane Hurd,” Herbie played basketball, baseball, and football, and helped the Shipbuilders win the gridiron state championship in 1971 and 1972.

Herbie worked for over 40 years in the field of electrical supply. He was an avid sports fan, following Boston and New England teams through thick and thin. Known for his wit and lighthearted demeanor he was always quick with a joke, and often surprised others with his agility on the dance floor. Herbie used his humor to handle life’s toughest trials, always doing his best to bring joy to others and to alleviate their pain. He continued to crack jokes for as long as his lungs would allow him. Above all else, he loved his family deeply.

Herbie is predeceased by his brothers Colin (who passed away serving in the Vietnam War) and Jedi (who passed in 1988). He is survived by his beloved wife Pam (Sawyer) Hurd; his children: Erik Bobbe and his wife Julie (of Brunswick), Colin Hurd and his wife Jenn Toms (of Gorham), and Kristen Stacy and her husband Michael (of Denmark); brother Jeff Hurd (of Lovell); sister Lynn Hurd (of Lovell); and five grandchildren: Miles and Owen Bobbe, Noah Spear, and two due to be born this summer.

Visiting hours will be held on Wednesday, March 1, from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Poitras, Neal & York Funeral Home, 71 Maple St., Cornish. Burial will be private in the spring amongst his family in Lovell.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Dempsey Center, 778 Main St., South Portland, ME 04106, or to a similar organization of your choice in his name.

efficient manner.

Effective implementation is among my top priorities this Congress, and it’s why I was excited that we quickly passed the bipartisan VA CAREERS Act I co-sponsored a few weeks after joining the committee. This bill will help address staffing shortages at veteran healthcare facilities, like Togus, by empowering them to hire and retain more staff. Hopefully, we can get the bill to the president’s desk and ensure that when a veteran calls a VA healthcare facility, someone is there to pick up the phone and able to quickly book them an appointment.

These are but two of many bipartisan bills the committee

has already passed this year that exemplify why SVAC is considered one of Congress’ most nonpartisan and productive committees. While the average Senate committee passes a half-dozen bills per Congressional Session (two years), this past session the Veterans’ Affairs Committee passed 56, the vast majority of which were passed on an overwhelmingly bipartisan basis to support our veterans.

It’s a good start, but there’s more work to be done. I will continue listening to veterans’ stories, advocating for their needs, and addressing the challenges they face. These everyday Americans answered the call for our country, and now it’s time for us to be there for them.

Calendar of Events

Wednesday, March 1

Paying for College, a free, informative financial aid session with Maria McDougal from FAME (Finance Authority of Maine) at 6 p.m. at the Adult Education building behind Lake Region High School. Call, e-mail, or visit the program website: Tel. 207627-4291, website adulted@ lakeregionschools.org

Friday, March 3 to Sunday, March 5 33rd Annual Auction to benefit Fryeburg Academy 2023 Project Graduation. Entire auction now online, March 3 at 6 p.m. to March 5 at 6 p.m., www.Charityauction. bid/FAProjectGrad

Friday, March 3 First Friday performers Kathy Bennett and Thom Perkins, with multi-instrumentalist Taylor Whiteside, appear at The Majestic at noon in Conway, N.H. They’ll share their haunting harmonies and memorable vocals, accompanied by guitar, fiddle and mandolin, as they perform Americana, folk, and rootsinspired original songs with tales of lost loves, lost lives and real-life adventure. All First Friday events are open to the public by donation

Saturday, March 4

Pancake and Sausage Breakfast, sponsored by American Legion Post 67, 8 to 11 a.m., Bridgton Community Center, 15 Depot Street. Recommended donation, $8 per person. All proceeds benefit American Legion Post 67. Winter Fun Day, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Peabody-Fitch Woods. Join Loon Echo Land Trust for a day of winter activities

at Peabody-Fitch Woods in South Bridgton. There will be a combination of free adaptive and non-adaptive crosscountry ski gear, fat bikes and snowshoes. More details to be posted on the LELT website. This event is free, but please register. Weather date is Sunday, March 5.

Winter Fun Day. Loon Echo Land Trust is hosting a winter fun day at PeabodyFitch Woods and Narramissic Farm in South Bridgton from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. There will be snowshoes available to borrow, and participants who register ahead of time will be able to borrow XC skis. There will also be adaptive gear for folks to use and try out. This event is free, but please register by e-mailing laurie@lelt.org or at lelt.org/events. Snow date is March 5. Check the LELT Facebook page for updates.

Sunday, March 5

Guest Speaker, First Congregational Church of Bridgton – UCC, located at 33 South High Street in Bridgton, are excited to announce that Dustin Ward, an advocate and activist for racial equality, will be the guest speaker at the church’s 10 a.m. worship service.

Tuesday, March 7 and March 14

Self-Defense Workshop. A self-defense workshop — focusing on mindset, defensive tactics and fun — will be held from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Bridgton Town Gym on North High Street. In this three-hour workshop, participants will learn skills to protect themselves with lots of physical practice. For more

information, contact instructor Renshi Lisa Magiera at RenshiLisa@gmail.com. The recommended donation is $15 per person. All proceeds benefit Tucker’s House, a recovery home for women in North Bridgton. The workshop is sponsored by the Bridgton Police Department, Bridgton Recreation and Bushido Karate Dojo.

Tuesday, March 7

Completing the FAFSA, a free, informative financial aid session with Maria McDougal from FAME (Finance Authority of Maine) at 6 p.m. at the Adult Education building behind Lake Region High School. Call, e-mail, or visit the website: Tel. 207627-4291, website adulted@ lakeregionschools.org

Wednesday, March 8 Cyberspace Lecture. Summer 2022 Intern Grace Acton will present a Virtual Lecture on “Rufus’s Adventures in Cyberspace.” Grace will discuss how digital historians turn historical data into interactive digital objects. She will specifically focus on the process of creating the map of Porter School art that is available on the Rufus Porter Museum of Art and Ingenuity website. Link: https://www.rufusportermuseum.org/event-details/rufussadventures-in-cyberspace

International Women’s Day Flash Mob, presented by the Bridgton Arts and Culture Subcommittee, 12 p.m., parking lot at Ian Factor Fine Art, 67 Main Street, Bridgton. Flash Mob to help Break the Bias! Everyone welcome to participate. To find out how to participate, e-mail Susan Guthro at susieguthro@gmail. com or go to the Facebook page, www.facebook.com/ bridgtonartsandculture.

Thursday, March 9 Kettle Dinner, BridgtonLake Region Rotary Club at the Bridgton Community Center on Depot Street in Bridgton from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. or until the food runs out.

This will be an eat-in supper with the option for “take-out.” Everyone is welcome. Menu: Lasagna, Caesar Salad, Garlic Bread, and Festive Cookies. The meal is free to the public. Donations are gratefully accepted.

Friday, March 10 Fill the Plate Breakfast. SeniorsPlus, the designated Agency on Aging for Western Maine, will hold a breakfast to benefit its Meals on Wheels nutrition program from 7 to 9 a.m. at the Hilton Garden Inn Riverwatch in Auburn. The breakfast will honor Auburn resident Eloise O’Neill with the 2023 Ikaria Award and feature a talk by former WGME-TV awardwinning, longtime anchor Kim Block. Tickets are $25 per person ($30 at the door) and are available at www. seniorsplus.org or by calling 207-795-4010. Seats are limited and advance registration is recommended.

Wednesday, March 15 Ecology Walk, join the Chocorua Lake Conservancy for a Late Winter Wildlife & Ecology Walk with CLC Stewardship Director Debra Marnich, Charlotte C. Browne Woods, Washington Hill Road, Chocorua, N.H. from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Storm date is Wednesday, March 22. Free; space is limited—please register in advance at bit.ly/ CLC-031523. For more information visit www.chocorualake.org

Wednesday, March 29 Mammals of Maine. Bridgton Public Library will host the Chewonki Natural History Traveling Program for their Mammals of Maine program from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. This program also provides a living example of a non-releasable wild mammal. BPL has a maximum limit of 30 spaces, so please contact the library by e-mail (bplreference@bridgton.lib.me.us), phone (207-647-2472), or stop by either circulation desk to RSVP.

Classified Advertising

BN 9 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: van drivers, bus drivers, bus aides and substitutes. Visit www.msad72.org, call 207-935-2600 or pick up an application today at Door #10, 25 Molly Ockett Drive, Fryeburg, ME tf7

SEASONAL HELP WANTED at Wyonegonic Camps in Denmark: Full and part-time kitchen positions including meal cook, assistant/prep cook and general kitchen assistants; part-time housekeeping; part-time grounds maintenance/driver; part-time office administrative support. Position start dates available May 29 to June 19 and ending August 19 to 31. Online preliminary application available at Wyonegonic.com; compensation commensurate with experience. Call 207-452-2051 to arrange a local interview. 9t9

PSS — Looking for people to work in home care in local area. Will train. Competitive pay. Call 8038424, Mon.-Fri. between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. 2t9x

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

FOR

SALE

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

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

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. 4t7x

WANTED

Retired Professor seeks temporary, preferably long-term housing beginning March in quiet Bridgton/ Waterford/Harrison area. Nonsmoker. Have older cat. Please contact Paul at 207-393-0411. 1t9x

FOR SALE

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 respond if you: are unable to set your alarm, text out sick once a week, have to find a ride to work, or think checking social media every five minutes is part of your daily tasks.

DO REPLY if you are a dependable hard worker that doesn’t whine, is able to be part of a team that provides quality work, you don’t mind working 50+ hours a week earning great pay, staying fit and getting a great tan and have a never give up attitude.

Please call or text 207-557-2801

207-744-6071. For more information and to apply, please scan the QR code!

An Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Employer.

PROPERTY

Country Living

March 2, 2023, The

Bridgton News,

The Bridgton Lions Club has extended the deadline for nominations for the “Al” Glover Nonprofit Leadership Award to Friday, March 17.

Due to the lack of returns during February, the club felt that an extension was necessary and appropriate.

The Glover Award was offered for the first time in 2021 to honor the memory of a Bridgton resident who served the community in a multitude of ways. Al was a respected teacher, track coach, photographer, public servant, member of at least seven nonprofit boards of directors, lifelong Lion and just plain “good guy.”

The award is designed to honor an individual, who has given exceptional service to any of the several nonprofit organizations that serve the

greater Bridgton area. The nominee may be a member of the agency’s staff, a volunteer or a member of the board of directors. The individual will be selected by the board of the organization and his or her qualifications forwarded to the Lions Club by letter of e-mail on or before March 17. The person selected by the Lions selection committee will be feted at a dinner in their honor on May 8, 2023. In addition, the non-

profit will receive a grant of $1,000 to use at their discretion in honor of the individual selected.

Nonprofits are encouraged to submit their nominee by addressing their choice to: Bridgton Lions Club, Al Glover Award Committee, P.O. Box 103, Bridgton, ME 04009 or by e-mail to: brentuchon3@gmail.com

All entrees will be acknowledged and informed of the club’s selection on or before April 10, 2023.

ROTARIANS Rick Whelchel (front), (left to right) Jessica Putnam and Dick Enright packing meals at a 2022 Community Kettle Dinner.

Rotary to host Community Kettle dinner March 9

This will be an eat-in supper with the option for “take-out.” Everyone is welcome. Menu: Lasagna, Caesar Salad, Garlic Bread, and Festive Cookies.

The meal is free to the public. Donations are gratefully accepted.

Rotarians will be hosting this meal with Rotary helpers. Interact Club mem-

bers from Lake Region High School (young Rotarians), Rotarians and Friends of Rotary will be assisting with food preparation, serving and clean up. If you would like to help at this community event, contact the Rotary at LakeRegionRotary@gmail.com.

For more information about the Bridgton-Lake Region Rotary Club and its activities, check the websitehttps:// lakeregionrotary.com or the Facebook Page, or contact Club President Aaron Hagan directly at lakeregionrotary@ gmail.com.

The Deacons of First Congregational Church of Bridgton – UCC, located at 33 South High Street in Bridgton, are excited to announce that Dustin Ward, an advocate and activist for racial equality, will be the guest speaker at the church’s 10 a.m. worship service this Sunday, March 5. In 2020, Dustin’s life took a dramatic turn. He decided to step away from ministry to start a consulting business called It Is Time, which focuses on advocacy

WARD, Page 5B

Friday, March 3 6 to 8 a.m., Dan Fitness 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., AARP 9 to 10 a.m., Chair Yoga

1 to 4 p.m., Mahjongg

4:30 to 6 p.m., Rick Hagerstrom practice

Saturday, March 4 8 to 11 a.m., American Legion Post Breakfast

Sunday, March 5

1 to 3 p.m., Girl Scouts, Great Room

3:30 to 5 p.m., Rick Hagerstrom practice

5 to 8:30 p.m., The Band

Monday, March 6 6 to 8 a.m., Dan Fitness 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., AARP 10 to 11 a.m., Chair Yoga

1 to 3 p.m., Home School program, free 1:30 to 3:30 p.m., Cribbage, free

Tuesday, March 7 6 to 8 a.m., Dan Fitness 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., Chickadee Quilters

12:30 to 4 p.m., Bridge, $3

Wednesday, March 8 6 to 8 a.m., Dan Fitness 10 to 11:30 a.m., Senior College 12 to 1 p.m., Senior Lunch

1 to 3 p.m., Mahjongg

1 to 2:30 p.m., Caregiver Support Group, Room 2

2:30 to 4:30 p.m., Cooking Matters

4:30 to 6 p.m., Rick Hagerstrom practice 5 to 7 p.m., Kayley Crafts

103 Main Bridgton // 647-3672 // Daily 10-5 // fireflyshopmaine.com Newly Arrived JEWELRY incl. Colors, Statement Pieces 50% OFF in our famous Back Room UP TO $$$ $$$ NOW SIX BIG SALE RACKS SPRING-WEAR! incl. HOME, GIFTS, INTERIORS, WINE. TUE-SAT 10-5 NO. 31 MAIN BRIDGTON, ME. 207.647.5555 TF4 Szechuan, Hunan & Cantonese Cuisine DAILY SPECIALS Tel: (207) 647-8890 MAJOR CREDIT CARDS ARE ACCEPTED OPEN 6 DAYS – closed Tuesday Summer/Winter Sun.-Thurs. 11 am - 9 pm/8:30 pm Fri. & Sat. 11 am - 10 pm/9:30 pm 160 Main Street Bridgton, ME 04009 Dine In or Take Out TFr50 OPEN EVERY DAY 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. • Homemade Fudge • Caramels • Fruit & Nut Clusters • Turtles & more! German Beers & Wines $1 OFF any order $10 or more! Please present coupon upon checkout 2 Cottage Street, Bridgton, Maine • 207-647-2400 2483 White Mt. Hwy., No. Conway, N.H. • 603-356-2663 www.bavarianchocolatehaus.com • bch@bavarianchocolatehaus.com TF2

composer John ____, 53-time nominee 55. Resin-producing tree 56. Call to Mary 57. Get-out-of-jail money 59. Bye, in Castile

60. Ages and ages 61. Competitive advantage

Farm female 64. Fender-bender damage

1. Key often used with ctrl

2. Gold rush, e.g.

3. Purse with notions

4. Leechee, alt. sp.

5. Dandruff locale

6. This bird gets the worm?

*”The

a traffic ticket 8. Big do 9. Cattail, e.g. 10. *”____ Harris Goes to Paris,” Best Costume Design nominee 12. Tarzan and such 13. Like beer at a kegger (2 words) 14. *”The Banshees of Inisherin” nominee 19. Polynesian dance, pl. 22. Dress like Ancient Greeks 23. *Austin Butler’s gyrating character 24. Gallows loop 25. Oil crisis 26. *Last year’s Best Picture winner 27. Like a Druid, e.g. 28. Missouri River tributary 29. Flying nuisance 32. Lend a hand in crime 33. Order’s partner 36. *”Guillermo ____ ____’s Pinocchio” 38. “My wife can vouch for me,” e.g. 40. Address to a boy, slangily 41. Bucolics 44. Desert traveler’s hope 46. Bikini Bottom locale 48. Variation of meow 49. Skirt shape 50. Past tense of bid 51. Roman remain, e.g. 52. Cry of glee 53. Like a full-fledged Mafia man 54. Leo or Libra 55. Jared’s competitor 58. Allow

Solutions

on Page

The Bridgton-Lake Region Rotary Club will host a Community Kettle at the Bridgton Community Center on Depot Street in Bridgton on Thursday, March 9 from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. or until the food runs out.

Country Living

Spring programs at BPL

The Bridgton Public Library is excited to see spring is just around the corner. Thanks to generous funding from the Friends of the Bridgton Library, BPL is able to bring Chewonki Natural History Traveling Program here to Bridgton for their Mammals of Maine program on Wednesday, March 29, from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.

Winter Fun Day March 4

Looking to get outside and enjoy the snow? Loon Echo Land Trust is hosting a winter fun day at Peabody-Fitch Woods and Narramissic Farm in South Bridgton this Saturday, March 4 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. There will be snowshoes available to borrow,

and participants who register ahead of time will be able to borrow XC skis. There will also be adaptive gear for folks to use and try out.

Volunteers will be on hand to teach you to ski if you’ve never tried it before or want some pointers. Learn something new and

join the fun! Adaptive gear provided thanks to Maine Adaptive & the Adaptive Outdoor Education Center.

This event is free, but please register by e-mailing laurie@lelt.org or at lelt. org/events. Snow date is March 5. Check the LELT Facebook page for updates.

This exciting and interactive program introduces students to our native warmblooded vertebrates: Maine mammals. A collection of skulls, study skins, and other specimens complements a discussion of adaptations and the role each animal plays in the food web. This program also provides a living example of a non-releasable wild mammal. BPL has a maximum limit of 30 spaces, so please contact the library by e-mail (bplreference@bridgton.lib.me.us), phone (207-647-2472), or stop by either circulation desk to RSVP. Please join BPL for a Digital Inclusion Community Workshop here on Friday, March 31 from 10 to 11:30 a.m. GPCOG is partnering with the Maine Broadband Coalition to help ensure local voices are

Chewonki Natural History Traveling Program will visit BPL March 29. Register early, space limited

heard in getting Maine residents connected and helping them stay connected. If you or someone you know does not have access to Internet service or needs assistance with getting and using devices, please join BPL for this community workshop!

The library will have regular events, including Storytime every Friday morning from 10 to 11 a.m., as well as Technology Help every Friday afternoon from 2 to 4 p.m. And looking ahead, save the date for Earth Day Poetry on Friday, April 21, and the Annual Scavenger Hunt happening April 15-April 29. BPL will keep you posted as more details become available.

Upcoming Met Operas at LHEPAC

The next Met Opera Live in HD performances at the Leura Hill Eastman Performing Arts Center, on the Fryeburg Academy campus, will be Lohengrin on Saturday, March 18 at 12 p.m. and Falstaff on Saturday, April 1, at 12:30 p.m.

3.

First Friday at the Majestic

CONWAY, N.H. — Kathy Bennett and Thom Perkins, with multi-instrumentalist Taylor Whiteside, appear at The Majestic at noon this Friday, March 3, in Conway, N.H.

They’ll share their haunting harmonies and memorable vocals, accompanied by guitar, fiddle and mandolin, as they perform Americana, folk, and roots-inspired original songs with tales of lost loves, lost lives and real-life adventure.

The duo, often accompanied by Whiteside, are frequent performers around the Valley, with recent appearances in Center Conway, Jackson, and at the Fryeburg

Lohengrin: Wagner’s soaring masterpiece makes its triumphant return to the Met stage after 17 years. In a sequel to his revelatory production of Parsifal, director François Girard unveils an atmospheric staging that once again weds his striking visual style and keen dramatic insight to Wagner’s

breathtaking music, with Music Director Yannick Nézet-Séguin on the podium to conduct a supreme cast led by tenor Piotr Beczała in the title role of the mysterious swan knight. Soprano Tamara Wilson is the virtuous duchess Elsa, falsely accused of murder, going head-to-head with soprano Christine Goerke as the cunning sorceress Ortrud, who seeks to lay her low. Bassbaritone Evgeny Nikitin is Ortrud’s power-hungry husband, Telramund, and bass Günther Groissböck is King Heinrich. Estimated run time: 4 hrs 35 min.

and Deerfield fairs. They’ve appeared at Club Passim in Cambridge, Mass.; Stone Mountain Arts Center in Denmark; the Medallion Opera House in Gorham, N.H.; the Nantucket Atheneum in Massachusetts; with the Cold River Radio Show and Ossipee Valley Music Festival in New Hampshire, and more. They have shared the stage with Peter Yarrow of Peter, Paul and Mary, Loudon Wainwright III, Jez Lowe and many others.

First Friday performers include Mountain Top faculty and staff, as well as other Mount Washington Valley musi-

Bridgton Farmers’ Market recipe Uncluttered Chicken Stock

By Nancy Tripp Bridgton

Farmers’ Market

It is the beginning of March and winter is still with us. A great time to put a pot of soup on the stove or take some time and make a good batch of chicken stock, some for now and some to freeze for future use. Both Patch Farm and Gould’s Acres Farm have terrific chicken available for your stock pot. In fact, right now Patch Farm is offering organic stew birds at a great price.

Today, I was reading Deb Perlmans post on Smitten

Kitchen and I believe I have the answer to my dilemma of cooking up a beautiful clear broth. So here, I share with you the recipe for a simple chicken stock that can be the base to a yummy chicken vegetable soup, a noodle soup or a restorative and healing chicken soup loaded with more ginger, garlic and parsley than you ever thought you could eat. Use your imagination and add what you want, or you have a cup of lovely homemade broth to sip on one of those days when you are not feeling well yourself.

Uncluttered Chicken Stock from Deb Perelman, Smitten Kitchen

Ingredients

3 pounds chicken wings (I use a Bridgton Farmers’ Market chicken and use the bird, or bones post-roasted bird)

3 quarts of water

1 onion, roughly chopped

1 garlic clove, smashed

1 teaspoon table salt, more or less

1 teaspoon cider vinegar (helps draw the collagen out of the bones)

Directions

In a slow cooker: Place all ingredients in the cooker and cook on low for eight to 10 hours. On high for four to five hours.

In an InstantPot or pressure cooker: Place all ingredients in an eight-cup InstantPot or pressure cooker, fasten the lid and cook on high for one to three hours. Manual or natural release both work fine: do it faster if you have less time to spare; or leave on low overnight if you want to make a rich bone broth.

To clarify: This recipe fits in an eight-quart InstantPot or electric pressure cooker. Should you only have a six-quart, simply reduce the recipe by a third (two pounds wings, two quarts of water, one medium onion, less salt).

On the stovetop: Place all ingredients in a large pot and bring to a low simmer for four to five hours. You may have to add water as the liquid evaporates more quickly on the stovetop.

All methods: Pour the stock through a fine-mesh strainer to remove the chicken parts, onion and garlic. The stock is now ready to use, or, you might prefer to do as we do, and put it in the fridge to chill until any fat solidifies on the top, making it easier to remove.

How to store: If not using it immediately, let it cool and pour each quart of stock into a 1-gallon freezer bag and freeze them until needed. The gallon bags will be thinner and therefore defrost more quickly, dipping them in hot water for a bit. They also stack well. Note: Always defrost your bags set in a bowl. You never know if the bag has fallen on a sharp corner or anything else has made a small puncture in the bag. It’s heartbreaking to lose any of the stock you worked hard for.

It can also be stored in ice cube trays for tiny amounts (great to add flavor to cooked grains or beans) or use nonstick standard muffin pans for 1/2-cup servings.

The Bridgton Winter Farmers’ Market runs every Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon through April 22. The new winter location is the Masonic Hall, Oriental Lodge #13 at 166 Harrison Road (Route 117).

For a full list of vendors and information on ordering or to sign up for the BFM weekly newsletter, visit https://www. facebook.com/BridgtonFarmersMarket/ or contact BFM at bridgtonfarmersmarket.me@gmail.com

Please no dogs. Sorry, we have a lease to honor.

BFM accepts credit cards and EBT. See you there!

Naples/Casco/Raymond

American Legion Post #155

Fish

The Opera Lecture for this performance will take place today, Thursday, March 2, at 3 p.m. in the PAC Seminar room. Free and open to the public.

Falstaff: Baritone Michael Volle stars as the caddish knight Falstaff, gleefully tormented by a trio of clever women who deliver his comeuppance, in Verdi’s glorious Shakespearean comedy. Maestro Daniele Rustioni takes the podium to oversee a brilliant ensemble cast that features sopranos Hera Hyesang Park, Ailyn Pérez, mezzo-soprano Jennifer Johnson Cano, contralto

Marie-Nicole Lemieux, tenor Bogdan Volkov, and baritone Christopher Maltman. (180 minutes)

The lecture for Falstaff will be on Tuesday, March 6, at 3 p.m. The free lecture takes place in the PAC Seminar room and is open to the public. The Leura Hill Eastman Performing Arts Center is located on the Fryeburg Academy Campus at 18 Bradley Street, Fryeburg.

Website: www.fryeburgacademy.org/pac

E-mail: boxoffice@fryeburgacademy.org

Phone: 207-544-9066.

cal folks, who share their talents with the community without compensation. All First Friday events are open to the public by donation, in keeping with Mountain Top Music Center’s mission of “enriching lives with music.”

Donate and reserve seats in advance at conwaymajestic. org.

Ward to speak

(Continued from Page 5B)

for Black, Indigenous, and people of color and works toward ending racism in all forms, in every community in Maine. He helps direct change through truth, reconciliation, education, assistance, and advocacy. His goal is to create change by assisting businesses, schools, towns, and churches to have the tough conversations around race, racial equity and the racism experienced by people of color.

Dustin is a 2010 graduate of the University of Southern Maine and a 2019 graduate of Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. He will reflect upon his own experiences as a Black child growing up in Presque Isle. Currently, he, his wife, Lauren, and their two young children live in New

Gloucester, where he was recently elected to Board of Selectmen as the town’s first person of color. Commenting on his election success, Dustin said, “I’m delighted and now I can use that as a way to encourage other people of color to make their own history in their own towns and their own spaces.”

All members of the community are welcome to attend this very timely and important service.

The First Congregational Church, an open and affirming church, is handicapped accessible and welcomes everyone. The pastor is Rev. Emily C. Goodnow. Sunday services are held at 10 a.m. Childcare is available. For more information, visit www.bridgtonucc.com or call the church office at 207-647-3936.

FIRST FRIDAY with performers Thom Perkins, Kathy Bennett and Taylor Whiteside at The Majestic in Conway, N.H. at noon this Friday, March