May 25, 2023

Pianist Mike Levine at PAC; Chair raffle benefits Inn; Rotary honors Good Citizens Section B

Honored to be Honored

By Dawn De Busk Staff Writer HARRISON

— Gerry

Smith’s trip to visit the war memorials in Washington, D.C., and to see Arlington Cemetery, started off with an emotional sendoff from friends and neighbors in his hometown of Harrison.

“The first thing I was told to do was be at Portland Jetport no later than 8 o’clock on Friday morning. So, I left home at 7 o’clock and before I had even gone a mile, the best thing that happened to me all day happened then. I live on Cape Monday Road. I got out to Naples Road. There were a lot of cars there and there were a lot of people there. There were a lot of kids there. They had signs up, ‘Our hero.’ They were waving flags and so forth. All for me,” Smith said. “We went down the road. You know what the

4 battle for 2 Select Bd. seats

big old solider did? I cried. I cried all the way to North Windham. I had to think of something else to stop.”

Smith, who is 91, went on an Honor Flight Maine trip during the last weekend of April. Smith, a Korean War era veteran, shared his Honor Flight experiences with the American Legion Auxiliary Post 139 in Harrison.

That is the women’s group. They were ecstatic to have the Harrison resident speak.

In fact, Smith has become something of a celebrity since TV news footage of him going on the Honor Flight was aired on three different TV stations.

Every channel you turned to, the TV news had a story showing Smith, according to his daughter Angela. The trip took place April 28 through

FLIGHT, Page 4A

MEMENTO — On May 15, Harrison resident

stands with his daughter Angela Pearson and holds a Korean War book he received during the Honor Flight Maine trip he took during the last weekend in April. (De Busk Photo)

100+! Great minds walk alike

By Dawn De Busk Staff Writer

People arrived in groups of three and four and five, some came alone, all gathering at the starting place for the Mental Health Awareness Walk on Thursday morning until there were more than 120 individuals who participated.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month and that was the reason for the walk, according Candy Greenberg, the peer support specialist with the Lakes Region Recovery Center (LRRC).

“Within our rural community, LRRC is a leader of resources for mental health and substance use disorder. We feel a responsibility to help bring awareness to the connection between addiction and mental health struggles,” she said.

The community of Bridgton showed its support

of mental health awareness with strength in numbers.

“We estimate between 120 and 150 walkers,” Greenberg said. Lead by a police car

from the recovery center parking lot, the very large group, some holding signs or banners, marched down Main Street to the stoplights. The walkers turned

onto Portland Road, taking a brief stroll to Francis Bell Road, where they headed toward the school. There, outside Stevens Brook School, on the grassy curbs stood the entire student body. Each grade had a different message about mental health. Those came in the form of art projects: Signs and posters the students held up.

“The outpouring of love and support from the students was the most emotional part of the walk. The kids had crowns and signs supporting mental health, many of them said, ‘Just Breathe,’” Greenberg said. “There were so many highfives and words of encouragement. And this all from elementary school aged children. They inspired so much hope for a future without stigma surrounding mental health.”

WALK, Page 4B

Crowded Harrison SB field

By Wayne E. Rivet Staff Writer

HARRISON — The field of candidates for two seats on the Harrison Select Board is crowded.

Board vice chairman

Matthew Frank is seeking re-election.

Current board chairman Rick Sykes is leaving office.

Five newcomers hope to land a seat at the Select Board table. They include: Colleen Densmore, Michael Garvey, Debora Kane, Nathan Sessions and Brian Spaulding.

The News posed the following questions to candidates, whose answers appear in alphabetical order:

Q. Why did you decide to run for office?

Densmore: I’m running for selectperson for several reasons. First and most important is to serve our community with integrity and transparency in a nonpartisan position. I believe my lengthy history of leadership will be an asset to

the board. We need to manage our growth to maintain our small-town values. I decided to run last year following our challenges with the Select Board’s inability to collaborate and recommend a budget. To that end, my presence has been welcomed at the Select Board meetings for the last year.

Frank: It is an honor to have served as a Harrison Selectperson. I have attempted to find a balance between common-sense solutions to our problems while making the most of our opportunities and preserving the lifestyle and values of the “Friendly Village.”

Garvey: I decided to run for selectman because I am not a person that sits idle. I want to work for the residents in helping us deal with the changes that are taking place. In the past 2 1/2

years that we have called Harrison home, I have seen the town growing. I have heard from residents how frustrated they are with the lack of transparency. They call the town with questions and do not get answers. In fact, in many cases, they do not even get a phone call back. I want to help change that.

Kane: I love this town and decided it was time to get more involved. Select Board is a way to work with our team at the town office, with the other elected officials, and with our citizens – this broad interaction and potential to make a difference is appealing to me.

Sessions: I was at a public budget hearing this spring and observed our Select Board working through a draft budget that had requested a 20% increase of the operations

budget. I see the importance of the Select Board in the budget process and how they are able to provide a “checks and balance” step before sending a final budget to the voters. I believe in spending on necessities, but I see increased revenue as an opportunity to save for our future and return money to the taxpayers, not add new fixed costs to the town through creating new positions.

Spaulding: Last year, I completed a nearly fouryear stint as a member of the Planning Board. In the past, I have considered running for selectman several times. This time, friends encouraged me! I’ve been told I have good common sense. I am told the town may benefit from that. I also think I have a lot of experience, which, I’m oft reminded, is typically gained by learning from past mistakes. Perhaps, the younger folks also running

CANDIDATES, Page 3A

By Wayne E. Rivet Staff Writer

The race for two seats on the Bridgton Select Board includes incumbents Carrye Castleman-Ross, who completes a one-year term replacing Fred Packard who resigned, and Paul Tworog, who is finishing up a threeyear term. They are challenged by Dan Harden and James Kidder.

Bridgton Election June 13, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., Bridgton Town Hall (North High Street) Absentee Ballots are now available; inquire on the town

The News posed the following questions to candidates, whose answers appear in alphabetical order:

Q. Why did you decide to run for office?

Castleman-Ross: I have long been involved in politics by campaigning for and supporting various candidates both in Maine and nationally, and have been a voting proctor for many years in Bridgton. I am fascinated by the process and admire people willing to step up and run for something instead of just complaining, particularly in these fraught times. I ran for my first Select Board term last November and was elected to Fred Packard’s vacated seat. I am grateful to have been entrusted with the position by my fellow Bridgton voters and appreciate your continued support.

Harden: I have been involved in town politics for about five years. I currently serve on the Bridgton Planning Board. I am running for Select Board as I feel my knowledge of business, local residential needs, and local politics will bring added strength to the board.

Kidder: I have served in municipal government for 45 years, worked my way up through the ranks so to speak. As a Director, I have been involved in every aspect of town government, giving me insights and understanding that I would like to put to work for the people of Bridgton by serving on the Select Board.

Tworog: I have enjoyed my first term on the Select Board and have made a real difference in moving the community forward in a thoughtful manner. My focus from day one has been to recognize changes, while always working to preserve the character and values that have made Bridgton such an outstanding community. I want to protect the key characteristics of this great community such as open space, water access, recreational activities, an appealing downtown, etc. The real character of Bridgton, however, is Bridgton citizens helping Bridgton citizens, and my service in office is geared to not ever losing sight of that. I am looking forward to continuing as a very active and engaged member of the board, who has the multiple skills necessary to navigate the real complexities of today’s world.

Gibbs vs. Cook for Planning Bd.

By Wayne E. Rivet Staff Writer

Current Bridgton Planning Board member Charles “Ken” Gibbs is seeking re-election for another three-year term.

He is being challenged by Angela “Angie” Cook.

The News posed the following questions to candidates, whose answers appear in alphabetical order:

Q. Why did you decide to run for office?

Cook: I love this town and the people. I want to see positive growth.

Gibbs: Being a retired educator with editing and language skills along with having been a member of the Planning Board in Sturbridge, Mass., it seemed that volunteering for the Bridgton Planning Board would be a position in which I could effectively perform a valuable community service. I had previously volunteered to serve on Bridgton’s Land Use Committee, which spent almost three years translating the vision in the current Comprehensive Plan into zoning. Serving on the Planning Board was an obvious next step; so, I ran for an alternate position, stepped up to a full-time position, and next ran again successfully for a three-year position.

During these years, I gained an intimate knowledge of the town’s ordinances and became familiar with the protocols of the Planning Board. I am running for another term in order to use the experience I have to insure Bridgton maintains its innate appeal to residents and visitors, while

Gerry Smith, 91,

POSITION:

Bridgton Select Board Vote for 2

• Carrye L. CastlemanRoss, incumbent

A current member of the Bridgton Select Board, I am both a local commercial and residential property owner and have a vested interest in Bridgton’s continued economic, cultural and environmental health.

As owners of the Depot Street Tap House, my partner Eric LaPerna and I supported and hosted many nonprofit fundraisers over the years including Harvest Hills Animal Shelter, Project Graduation (both LRHS and Fryeburg Academy), the Rufus Porter Museum, Through These Doors, Bridgton Food Pantry, Bridgton Community Center and Family Crisis Services. A proud environmentalist. I have been on the board of Loon Echo Land Trust, was an early booster of Pondicherry Park and a founding member of the Bridgton Community Center’s Community Gardens. I was co-chair of Bridgton’s 250th birthday celebration and co-hosted the festivities for 2015 BikeMaine. A Chamber of Commerce member, I’ve been on the marketing committee and was voted “Businessperson of the Year” in 2014.

• Daniel J. Harden, challenger Current president of Sunrise Property Management supporting local properties for 10 years. Prior to that I held the position of Assistant Security Director of Construction at Logan Airport; and worked several years in various telecommunications posi

tions.

Bridgton has been my residence since 2005, and I have been coming to Bridgton since 1987 with my family. I have supported many nonprofits in town, including seven years on the Chamber of Commerce Board, two of those years as president; current Planning Board member and sitting on executive board of Harvest Hills. My wife Alyssa and I enjoy camping and boating in the many areas around the Lake Region. We also spend a lot of time with our combined seven kids.

• James W. Kidder, challenger Director (starting in 1987), Department of Public Works, Town of Dixfield, 1977-1999

Director, Department of Public Works, Town of Bridgton, 1999-2019

Consulting Director, Town of Waterford, 2020-present Partner, Aperto Fine Art, Bridgton, 2021 to present Bridgton resident since 1999

• Paul A. Tworog, incumbent

Married, three children, one grandchild

On the Bridgton Ballot

4 seek 2 Select Board seats

Q. What strengths do you feel you would bring to the job?

Castleman-Ross: My greatest strength and motivation in running for Select Board is that I am dedicated both personally and professionally to this town and want to contribute to its future success. It is also important to me that we keep it growing in a sustainable and measured way. Our streetscape and wastewater infrastructure upgrades have shown business owners and future residents that we are willing to invest in our town. The Comprehensive Plan is an important tool in setting building and design standards to keep us moving in a positive direction during these developments. During my current Select Board term, I have served as liaison to the wastewater infrastructure development team and both the Recycling and Community Development committees. It has been very fulfilling to collaborate with so many colleagues, volunteers, town staff and consultants, all of whom are dedicated to Bridgton’s future.

Harden: Having run a business for 11-plus years and managing many different budgets, I feel I can help the current board with executing various and complex projects. Being involved in many non-profits over the years and giving back to the community is something I truly enjoy. Additionally, my experience organizing events has given me the ability to make decisions that have been great for our community. We may not always see eye to eye on boards, but being able to have objective conversations and different points of view, we always focus on what’s right for our residents at large.

Kidder: Experience — knowing when to listen to all sides of an issue and working as a team to find the best solution; knowing who to ask when an issue is more complex and will take time to resolve. Longevity — having a history of the issues of the past and how they were resolved, knowledge key to future decisionmaking.

I will not fall back on preformed opinions and the “old school” thinking.

Q. What do you see are the two biggest challenges of the job, and how what would be your approach to dealing with them?

Castleman-Ross: 1.) Moving the town forward in a fiscally responsible way by creating opportunity and economic stability for our residents while protecting our most valuable asset — our priceless geographical surroundings and natural resources.

The investments that local developers have made in Bridgton over the past decade have created jobs in both the construction and retail sectors, replaced blighted buildings in the village district and added to our tax base.

The Community Development staff is implementing the Open Spaces and Vision Bridgton’s goals of expanding and protecting our public lands and recreational opportunities and our municipal officers and town employees have supported these efforts. I believe they have done an admirable job of balancing growth with the greater good. It is an exciting time to be in Bridgton and I look forward to continuing my role in our sensible growth and success.

2.) Providing a safe and nurturing environment for our children to thrive through continued support of Bridgton Rec, after-school programs and local mentoring, providing a safety net to meet basic social, food and heating needs for our elderly and less fortunate, and procuring the old Memorial School property to provide services for all of the above, and supporting the overall wellbeing of our residents by continued focus on community volunteerism and the successful ongoing efforts of our local law enforcement through collaboration and outreach. We all succeed when we support each other and create a healthy environment for all of our citizens to prosper.

communicating with the people of Bridgton and see if we can get more involvement from all age groups. We need to focus on job growth and affordable housing to help keep our younger generation here in town. I often hear from graduating seniors that they can’t wait to leave Bridgton for better paying jobs. Love Always Bridgton

Kidder: Keeping a stable tax base. In these tough times, the public needs to be reassured that the people they elect are doing everything they can to keep taxes affordable.

Looking to the future for all the departments, from helping Rec with programs for all age levels, transfer station and the recycling issues it faces, and other departments to make sure leadership is supporting staff so they are enabled to deliver their best to the town.

Tworog: Dealing with the pressures of growth is certainly one of the biggest challenges. It is important that we do not approach it in a piecemeal fashion, but have a clear vision and are able to set priorities. The new Comprehensive Plan will be helpful in setting a vision, but time will not stand still while that is being developed. Certainly, one piece of the puzzle is enough affordable and workforce housing, but local well-paying jobs are needed to draw new longterm community members. There is a delicate balancing act to improve our unique downtown with its role of a thriving village and not simply a slick tourist attraction or urban core. Growth also puts tremendous pressure on our precious natural resources such as lakes and trails. Recreational activities such as snowmobiling, cross country skiing and hiking are all key, especially with encouraging people to come to town in the winter and “shoulder” seasons.

do that is to partner whenever we can with non-profits and volunteer groups such as the Bridgton Community Center, food pantry, Rufus Porter Museum, the library, etc. Not only does this leverage our scarce economic resources, but it fosters the sense of community helping community. Another way to help meet this challenge is to provide facilities for people to use on their own from pickleball courts to tennis courts to basketball courts, etc. Efficiency also matters in big-ticket items like considering a public safety building. We also need to make sure that the new wastewater system is affordable for people to hook up to and use.

Q. Finish the following line, “If people vote for me, they will get...”

Castleman-Ross: …I promise to continue listening to, responding to and representing you to the best of my abilities in a transparent and ethical manner. It is a great honor to serve on the Select Board and I thank you for your trust and support.

Harden: …Honestly, what you will get from me is the truth. Those who know personally know I don’t beat around the bush. I have been involved in many projects in town over the 15-plus years or so that I have been in Bridgton, as previously said we don’t always see eye to eye, but in the end, we always come with a solution that works for everybody. I ask for your vote, but in any case, get out and vote. You truly cannot go wrong with any of the four candidates that are running. We truly believe and love this town. Let’s keep moving Bridgton in the direction we have been going and keep our quaint little town what everybody has come to know and love.

Work experience: Insurance/Reinsurance, Finance and Operations at John Hancock, UNUM, GenRe Life Corp

Now retired Community/civic

experience: Cable TV and Comprehensive Plan Committees, Steep Falls; Volunteer, AARP tax preparation; Bridgton 250th committee; Bridgton Planning Board

Current member Bridgton Select Board Hobbies and/or interests: Denmark Mountain Hikers, golf, ping-pong, Cribbage, bowling, kayaking.

Tworog: I have an extensive knowledge of finance including auditing, banking and budgeting. Having run many large and small operations has given me experience in how to get things done. Another key strength of mine is listening skills. I will listen to and work for all the people of Bridgton.

Harden: Being involved in property management and non-profits as mentioned, I am out and about our entire town. I feel we have fallen short in ensuring proper distribution of focus and funds to support areas outside of downtown. Clearly, downtown is an important part of our wonderful community and I just want to see more balance for all residents. The other area I feel we need to do a better job is

A second major challenge is never losing sight of the needs of the people who are already here. Sometimes, the excitement of new, bigger and better can distract from the services needed and the realization of the cost of those services. Taxes are an important item not just for the many elderly in the town but also for many others. The figures for SAD 61 show that more than half the students are from economically disadvantaged families. We need to make sure that we get the biggest bang for our buck in providing services and opportunities. One way to

Kidder: …Someone to listen, help with a solution to a problem, look to the future of the town and move the town in a direction that meets the needs of both our young and older citizens.

Tworog: …I will continue to serve the community as an active and engaged member of the Select Board. The financial expertise that I bring to the table is particularly important. My focus remains on listening to everyone’s concerns, with no pre-conceived agenda. I will focus on clear, consistent, fully transparent communication. Finally, I will stick to a clear long-range plan and not base decisions on the particular, narrow interests of a few.

Carrye L. Castleman-Ross

Daniel J. Harden

James K. Kidder

Paul A. Tworog

POSITION: Harrison Select Board

Vote for 2

• Colleen Densmore, challenger

Currently retired, my 43-year career in healthcare included 23 at the corporate level managing Food Nutrition and Allied Services for one of the then largest senior care companies in the country. I have had the wonderful opportunity to work with people from all walks of life and still possess a high degree of intellectual curiosity. I have dabbled in real estate for many years, having been a landlord since 1989 and continue today with property interests.

• Matthew Frank, incumbent Vice chairman, Harrison

Select Board President, Harrison Food Bank

Former chairman, Bridgton Hospital board

Former member, Central Maine Healthcare Finance Committee

Former chair, ecomaine

Former board member, Lakes Environmental Association

Treasurer, Harrison Lions Club

• Michael Garvey, challenger

Married 30 years to my best friend Susan.

Bachelor’s degree in Economics

Owner of a small construction/remodeling company for 32-plus years.

• Debora Kane, challenger

Married, grandmother, IT professional for MaineHealth. Full-time resident since 2012, parttime resident since 1969. Current president of the Cape Monday Cove Road Association, treasurer for the United Parish Congregational Church, and on the Board of Directors for Christmas in Harrison.

• Nathan Sessions, challenger I have resided in Harrison since building my log home here in 2000. I have strong communi-

ty ties to my hometown, an active member of the Harrison Fire Department since 2000, prior I served on the Norway FD since I was a teenager. I have worked many hours serving my community members. I have helped the fire association with summer car washes, station dinners and department participation in the Fryeburg Fair fireman’s muster. I worked for PACE ambulance for 12 years as an EMT.

I am married to my wife Pam, and we are raising two sons, ages 6 & 8. You can find us at many town community events.

I worked for Texas Instruments for 23 years. I retired in 2021 to work nearer home, in our community. I own Sessions Property Services, performing handyman work. I find myself working in Harrison many days, available to respond to fire calls and

home to get our boys off the bus.

• Brian Spaulding, challenger I live at 32 Pitts Road with my wife, “Ginnie,” a retired real estate agent. I have one son and one granddaughter. Ginnie has three children and eight grandchildren.

I was born in Augusta. I enjoyed being a Boy Scout in Troop 178. At age 14, I became a licensed amateur radio operator, W1ZAK. At fifteen I was active in Augusta and state civil defense radio as an emergency Morse code operator at the state airport in Augusta. When I turned seventeen, I joined USNR Surface Division 1-29, Augusta as an Electronics Field Seaman Apprentice.

In 1957, I graduated from Cony High. In September, I enlisted in the regular US Navy. I served in three Fleet Ballistic Missile (FBM)

nuclear submarines as a Fire Control Technician and Missile Technician. I served nearly 24 years in the US Navy, 17 in the submarine service and as a “civvie,” I completed my 30 years in the Fleet Reserve.

Living in Virginia Beach, I was a Cub Scout Pack leader. While there on active duty, I graduated in 1975 from Tidewater Community College, Virginia Beach, VA, with an AS Degree in English and another in Science. My last Navy duty was Commander Submarine Group Two, Groton, Conn. where, as Security and Safety Officer, I taught Motorcycle Safety, was also Transient Division Officer and Squadron Duty Officer for twelve FBM submarines.

In 1979, I was honorably discharged from the Navy as MTC(SS) and I moved to Durham. I was employed by John J. McMullen Associates (JJMA), naval engineers and naval architects, a defense contractor to the Supervisor of

Shipbuilding, Bath. I retired in 1995 after 16 years as a Defense Industry Classified Security Officer, Combat Weapon Systems Technician and Sr. Marine Project Engineer.

Since 1998, I have lived in Harrison longer than anywhere else because of frequent moves during my military service. To say that I love it here would be an understatement. I’m a life member of the American Legion and have served Harrison Post 139 twice as Adjutant. I am a life member of the VFW; a past Commander of Harrison VFW Post 9328. Ginnie and I are life members of the Western Maine Fish and Game Club (WMFG). I am a life member of the American Society of Naval Engineers, MENSA, and a 62-year member of Bethlehem Lodge, No. 35, AF & AM, Augusta. Since 2015, I have been licensed as a federal firearms dealer and own and operate “Friendly Village Firearms” (FVF).

6 candidates for 2 Harrison Select Board seats

for this office have yet to make their share of mistakes? And, I’m also told I’m in good physical and mental health for my age. I figure I have a few good years left to serve the town. I’d like to think those years will include 2024-2027.

Q. What strengths do you feel you would bring to the job?

Densmore: I spent four years on the citizen budget committee and have spent the last four years on our Planning Board, all volunteer. I served for two years on the board of directors for a large nonprofit health care facility in Boston.

Frank: First and foremost, is my love of Harrison. I am detail oriented workaholic with a finance background. During my tenure, I have worked steadfastly with my Select Board to ensure that the mill rate stays low and only moves a fraction of the national

standard. Harrison has only gone up by an average of 1.06% since I have been in office.

Garvey: I think my greatest strengths are my dedication and work ethic.

If I am fortunate enough to represent the residents of Harrison, they will be getting a person that will listen to residents and work 110% for you. I have seen what uncontrolled growth can do to a town. I grew up in a small town and saw firsthand what it does to a town. I will use that knowledge to avoid those pitfalls.

Kane: As a people manager in technology for many years, I have honed my strengths as an engaged listener, enthusiastic problem solver, and effective communicator. I look forward to putting these skills to use on the Select Board.

Sessions: I have great relationships with people who come from the extreme opposites of financial strug-

gles and successes. I will offer my opinions and input considering the impact on all my neighbors. I also am a business owner and make a living by being honest and treating people fairly. I will bring these qualities to the Select Board.

Spaulding: I’ve previously mentioned my experience, common sense and several other sources of experience. I didn’t mention that for many years I have been a member of the Cape Monday Road Association (CMCRA), serving as a member of the board for several years. Also, as treasurer, vice president and website manager. I’ve long been in the computer field, both analog and digital, in the Navy and as a civilian. Most recently, I voluntarily served on the Board of the Harrison Village Cemetery, was vice president, then president and cemetery sextant, relinquishing the latter role to the town last year.

Q. What do you see are the two biggest challenges of the job, and how what would be your approach to dealing with them?

Densmore: Our two greatest challenges: our future and collaboration. Development of systems and ordinances to manage the influx of long-term growth. Working collaboratively, set and attain manageable goals. One focused team supporting your tax dollars at work. The board’s function is to create policy.

Frank: We have limited financial resources, so it is necessary to set priorities, maximize services and control costs. My priorities are the children and our infrastructure. Our children are our future. We have two outstanding sport facilities. I’ve made it my priority to get the lights fixed, the scoreboard repaired and the fields professionally serviced. This summer, I advocated for the return of lifeguards and swimming instruction at our summer

recreation program.

I have been a champion for the new town garage. It will be completed later this year. I am a member of the Downtown Revitalization Committee, the only candidate for the Select Board on that committee. We are setting priorities and seeking outside grants to update and improve our downtown area. This week, as a direct result of the committee and teamwork with the town manager, a new sidewalk is being installed on Front Street. The walkway will be safer for all of our citizens.

Garvey: I think the first challenge is to try to change how many residents feel how the town is run. They voice their opinions, and they fall on deaf ears. That needs to change. We work for them, and they need to be shown the respect they deserve.

The second challenge is the growth that we are seeing. We need to work to preserve our resources and to work with developers to

Harrison Election Tuesday, June 13, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., Harrison Town Office

Absentee Ballots: Are now available

Write-Ins: There were no announced candidates for the Planning Board (three-year term) and Appeals Board (five-year term), so write-in candidates will be sought.

Candidates’ Night: Wednesday, June 7, 6 p.m., Harrison Elementary School. Vern Maxfield will serve as moderator. The event is sponsored by the Harrison Village Library.

build affordable housing and not to just cater to the second home buyer. Being in the construction industry and seeing what uncontrolled growth can do to a community, I will use that knowledge to help with this.

Kane: The biggest challenges of this job I foresee are learning how governance supports the needs of the community and working with new people to balance today’s needs with a vision for the future. These challenges can be accomplished with healthy discussions and active community engagement.

Sessions: This is my first time running for public office. I will be on a learning curve, but will take advantage of my existing relationships with current board members, and seek advice and mentorship. I am no stranger to town politics. I have attended dozens of meetings as a citizen.

Folks have many questions, complaints, and concerns they hope I can address and help with, but I know there is a process to follow and progress may be slow.

Spaulding: One challenge is keeping a small town, a small town. Harrison’s Main Street in size is a limited business

Colleen Densmore Matthew Frank Michael Garvey Debora Kane Nathan Sessions Brian Spaulding

Planning Board: Gibbs vs. Cook

(Continued from Page 1A)

attracting appropriate commercial development.

Q. What strengths do you feel you would bring to the job?

Cook: I have experience in business and community, and I feel I have strong leadership and communication skills.

Gibbs: First and foremost, I offer my experience in interpreting fairly and reasonably the extensive rules and regulations inherent in the Land Use Ordinances that oversee development in Bridgton. I have no agenda in my decision-making other than desiring to preserve the best qualities of Bridgton — its lakes, its forests, its smalltown flavor with its vibrant shops, galleries, restaurants, and other businesses. I am not adverse to compromise, I listen carefully to public comments, I assiduously read each application before the board, and I scrupulously try to avoid any bias. Having spent many years examining difficult literary passages in the classroom, I don’t mind spending hours reading and re-reading town ordinances and pouring over the details on an application to be sure that I can arrive at an opinion that benefits both the residents and the commercial interests of Bridgton.

Q. What do you see are the two biggest challenges of the job, and how what

would be your approach to dealing with them?

Cook: I feel the two biggest challenges are balancing the needs and interests of different businesses/ residents, navigating complex regulations and policies, and ensuring that the town’s growth and development align with the community’s values. My approach would be to prioritize transparency, communication, and collaboration with all businesses/residents to ensure that we are making informed and equitable decisions that benefit the community as a whole.

Gibbs: First, Bridgton is updating its Comprehensive Plan. Since the updated Comprehensive Plan will contain a communitygenerated plan for managing future growth in Bridgton, this is a truly significant document. At present, I’m the liaison for the Planning Board to the 2024 Comprehensive Plan Task Force and am looking forward to continuing to contribute to this important project.

Second, Bridgton is in the midst of unprecedented growth, both commercial and residential. The state has complicated matters by instituting LD2003, which mandates changes in Bridgton’s zoning in order to encourage housing that is affordable. As a result, the Planning Board has an extensive to-do list that

POSITION: Bridgton Planning Board Vote for 1

• Angela L. Cook, challenger 40 years old, from Bartow, Fla. Lived in Bridgton since 2013. Was Officer Manager from 20152019 at the Greater Bridgton Chamber of Commerce, became Executive Director in 2021. Married with two children, ages 20 and 17.

• Charles Kenneth Gibbs, incumbent

Approximately 30 years ago, Donna and I rented a camp on Moose Pond for a few weeks. The visit was delightful! We returned for two more summers, eventually purchasing a camp on Highland Lake, where we spent many a pleasant, relaxing summer. When we both retired from Worcester State University 12 years ago, we debated whether we should go south with the majority of retirees. There was little deliberation. Bridgton has so many attractions that we opted to live here full time, enjoying each of the four seasons.

must be accomplished in a short length of time. Our Land Use Code must be partially revised to make our zoning consistent with state rules. There is much work to be done, work which I am presently a part of, in order to guide Bridgton into the future without discarding the best qualities of its past.

Q. Finish the following line, “If people vote for

Honor Flight

(Continued from Page 1A)

April 30, she said.

Honor Flight Maine is non-profit that flies and buses elderly Veterans to see the United States war memorials from the wars they served in. The entire trip — from the plane flight to the hotel accommodations — is provided free of charge.

Last Monday, Smith described the details of his trip, mostly in chronological order.

Ever the excellent storyteller, he would provide important background information to set up a funny or meaningful story he was going to tell.

For example, he paused early in his presentation to explain some of the procedures and policies.

Angela Cook

me, they will get…” Cook: …A dedicated and passionate representative who will work tirelessly to make our town a better place to live, work and play.

Gibbs: …They will get an experienced Planning Board member who will work hard to make certain that Bridgton continues to be a town we can “love always.”

Harrison Select Board race

area. Some businesses have been long established “on the outskirts” and, of late, small businesses have been popping up here and there, mostly on Route 35. The town has grown some in recent years, several residences have been built, some rebuilt and some for folks escaping big town crime and COVID. As the town grows, like our ordinances and regulations, the town Comprehensive Plan should be frequently revisited and possibly modified, if determined to be “not keeping up” with “progress.” I have heard suggestions about limiting the number of solar farms, storage facilities and cannabis-related business in some manner, perhaps relative to the percentage of and proportionate to the overall town growth. Harrison should continue to be business friendly while keeping in mind it is mostly a residential “burb.”

Honor Flight recipients travel to the various sights in a wheelchair, even if they don’t normally use a wheelchair, he explained. Also, each Honor Flight person has a guardian. In Smith’s case, it was his son-in-law Carl Pearson. He told his audience a little bit about Pearson’s friendly and helpful personality before continuing with his experience.

“I would sit there in my wheelchair while I was waiting for Carl to help others because he was the type to do that. I would wheel myself off to the side. I hadn’t been there very long and a lady came up and she had two little children with her and she said, ‘Thank you for your service.’ That is the first time in my life anybody had said that. By the time I got home, between 100 and 200 people had said that to me,” Smith said, adding “all because of this” and pointing to his Korea Veteran baseball cap.

Being appreciated was a huge part of the experience, Smith said.

Equally, there was a lot of sorrow. He felt sad about how many American have died in wars throughout the generations.

“We were bussed roughly a little less than an hour to Washington, D.C. I think that the first place we visited was the National World War II Memorial. It would make sense that it was because World War II Memorial is a pretty special place. There is so much there that it is very difficult to [see and recall everything]. We could have spent all day

HONOR FLIGHT, Page 5A

From my perspective, the number two challenge is more important than my first concern. That is controlling the growth of town government and its range of services similarly – that is, in propor-

tion not only regarding the size in the physical area of the town, but particularly in proportion to its tax base and population — as it grows or does not. With our mixed blessing of property tax garnered from two lakes, Long and Crystal (and other related taxes and fees), this small town has its limitations. The appropriation of funds must be diligently prioritized, with peripheral vision that sees with an eye “down the road” the impact positive and negative resulting from appropriating too much or too little.

I have one other concern which is a challenge and should be a concern of everyone; not just me and that is the cost of educating the young citizens of the town and especially how that funding is expended. Having been brought up in simpler times when teachers were burdened enough with just trying to impart some knowledge of basic math, reading, writing (shouldn’t cursive be taught?), history and geography, why expect “kids” to understand subjects that even many adults have difficulty comprehending? Common sense should

prevail, and it is the duty of all of us to allow parents to be parents and make the decisions for their children. Isn’t the “age of consent” still the age of 18?

Q. Finish the following line, “If people vote for me, they will get...”

Densmore: ...They get a focused municipal select person that will be transparent, fair, fiscally conscious and mindful to all residents equally. It is critical that we focus on our future. Our kids, our managed growth, our lakes and environment are our greatest assets.

(Continued from Page 3A) HARRISON, Page 5A

Frank: ... A person who cares, does not have a personal agenda, is a hard worker, loves Harrison and wants to continue to make it the absolute best place to live and thrive in the

Oxford Hills community. Our “Friendly Village” is the “way life should be.” Garvey: ...They will get a person who is working for them. Every decision I make and every vote I cast will have them in mind. I will provide transparency and fiscal accountability. They will get someone who understands that the average full-time household makes just over $40,000. I will remember that when making decisions on spending your tax dollars.

Kane: ... A dedicated and enthusiastic resident, passionate about Harrison, willing to work hard to continue the success of our town.

Sessions: ... A hardworking, committed and

THE BRIDGTON NEWS

(BRIDGTON NEWS CORPORATION)

Established 1870

P.O. BOX 244 • BRIDGTON, ME 04009

207-647-2851 • 207-647-8166 • Fax: 207-647-5001

General e-mail: news@bridgton.com

Editor e-mail: news@bridgton.com Display Advertising e-mail: ads@bridgton.com website: bridgton.com

Publisher & Editor Wayne E. Rivet

Staff Writer Dawn De Busk

Circulation & Classifieds

Business Manager Fran Dumont

Advertising Sales Manager Samantha Berke

Production Lorena Plourd

The Bridgton News (USPS 065-020) is published Thursdays at 118 Main Street, Bridgton, Maine. Periodicals class postage at Bridgton, Maine. POSTMASTER:

Charles Kenneth Gibbs

SPECIAL MOMENT — In late April, as part of the Honor Flight Maine trip, Gerry Smith has a photo taken next to the Lone Sailor statue in Washington, DC. ( Photo courtesy of Gerald Smith)

Bridgton Police Department

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

Monday, May 15

8:21 a.m. Sex offender registry registration.

9:03 a.m. Assist Bridgton Fire Department with a structure fire on Main Street.

11:11 a.m. Citizen assist (family dispute) on Raspberry Lane.

2:56 p.m. Juvenile problem on Kansas Road. Subject found and returned to his residence. Crisis liaison officer provided assistance.

3:55 p.m. Missing juvenile from Wayside Avenue; officers located the individual.

4:40 p.m. “Out of control” person on Wayside Avenue was transported to the hospital for evaluation.

5:48 p.m. Citizen assist (custodial issue) on Iredale Street.

Tuesday, May 16

2:32 p.m. Citizen assist

regarding vehicle purchased off Facebook Market Place.

9:20 p.m. Threatening complaint at Garden Way.

Wednesday, May 17

6:44 a.m. Citizen dispute on Ingalls Road. Subject told police that a neighbor allegedly was taking photos of her and her granddaughter while they were waiting in their vehicle for a school bus. Officers informed the caller that as long as the neighbor “isn’t invade her privacy, in Maine, taking photos of others isn’t a crime.”

7:30 a.m. Welfare check on Main Street.

8:21 a.m. Traffic detail at Frances Bell Drive.

9:22 a.m. Police issued a trespass notice to an exemployee of a Portland Road business.

9:37 a.m. Citizen assist on Pinhook Road.

2:20 p.m. Police checked Winn Road after receiving a report of a suspicious female laying in the road; police

were unable to locate the female.

Thursday, May 18

8:28 a.m. Motor vehicle crash (two vehicles in a parking lot) on Main Street. No injuries reported.

9:37 a.m. Officers participated in the Mental Health Awareness Walk with Lake Region Recover Center.

12:34 p.m. Police assisted District Court personnel with individuals involved in a civil matter regarding protection from abuse orders and child custody.

12:57 p.m. Disturbance reported at Ward Acres.

1:22 p.m. Citizen assist at Edgewater Lane.

2:07 p.m. Citizen assist on Portland Road. Police retrieved a paycheck for an ex-employee who had been issued a trespass notice at a local business.

3:54 p.m. Disturbance reported on Memory Lane.

Friday, May 19

12:44 p.m. Responding

to a suspicion report at Highland Road, police asked a “male from Canada not to return to the beach after swimming nude.”

Saturday, May 20

5:21 p.m. A female was arrested for criminal trespass at Edgewater Lane.

Sunday, May 21

5:15 p.m. A report was received of a person going through items left outside after hours on Sandy Creek Road. No items were taken.

8:17 p.m. Court paperwork served at Sunshine Circle location.

8:31 p.m. Suspicious pedestrian on South High Street.

Monday, May 22

10:59 a.m. Citizen assist on Maple Street.

8:28 p.m. Welfare check on North Bridgton Road.

• During this reporting period, police responded to five alarms and conducted 44 property checks.

Fryeburg Police Department

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

Monday, May 15 10:35 a.m. Assist county deputy on Portland Street.

12:35 p.m. Shoplifting complaint at Bridgton Road store.

4:09 p.m. Disturbance reported on Wicks Road.

Tuesday, May 16

5:38 a.m. Assist Fryeburg Rescue on Ice House Road.

4:51 p.m. Theft com-

plaint on Main Street. 11:36 p.m. Juvenile offense on North Fryeburg Road investigated.

Wednesday, May 17 6:15 p.m. Report taken on a harassment complaint on Lovewell Pond Road.

Thursday, May 18 10:55 a.m. Welfare check on Franks Way. 1:05 p.m. Civil matter on Bridgton Road. 1:12 p.m. Citizen assist on Molly Ockett Drive. 11:33 p.m. Theft com-

plaint at a Main Street store.

Friday, May 19 7:58 a.m. Handling a traffic complaint on Main Street, near Fryeburg Academy, police charged a 16-year-old with passing a stopped school bus. The offense carries a $326 fine.

Saturday, May 20 12:32 a.m. Alarm check on Fish Street.

10:11 a.m. Suspected overdose situation on Pequawket Lane.

10:41 a.m. Welfare check

Honor Flight journey

(Continued from Page 4A)

there, and we were going to see them all in one day. And, that was a sad thing,” he said.

“The WWII memorial is between Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument, right there in prime place where you can look on way to see the Lincoln Memorial and the other direction to see the Washington Monument,” he said. Smith referred to the location as a good choice.

Also, Smith shared how he had an emotional response to parts of the memorial.

“They had 4,000 gold stars up there and this commemorated the 400,000 Americans who died in WWII. You know this, to me, was very, very sad,” Smith said. “I almost become overcome when I read these figures: 400,000. Almost a half million of our boys died in WWII, and some of our women. Isn’t that amazing?”

Smith provided some background about the memorial, which is managed by the National Parks Service. WWII ended in 1945. The park service started the design phase on the memorial in 1997.

“It was opened in 2003. Look how long [after the war] it took them to conceive that and build it,” he said.

Another spot that really made Smith sorrowful was the Korean War Wall.

“It is very sad because all of those names embronzed on those walls are those that died, those that died,” he said.

They had box lunch at the Air Force Memorial. There were statues that are spires. Nothing has been built since those spires.

“Three spires that go up

like 170-feet tall, made of stainless steel. I could look right down through the valley and over half a mile, there was the Pentagon. If we go back to 2001 when that airplane came over and took the tips right off those spires. And you could just imagine that thing [plane] going right down through that valley, and crashing into the Pentagon. That really shook me for a loop, thinking about that one. How sad that was,” he said.

The next stop on the itinerary was going to the Tomb of the Unknown Solider to watch the changing of the guards.

“Now, this was right after lunch and all of a sudden the sun came out. As the sun came out, people just started pouring out of Washington and the crowd just multiplied very quickly. All kinds of people on a nice, warm, sunny afternoon. They were all there for changing of the guard. We were told while we are there, don’t you make a sound,” Smith said. “The only sound was when the guard would walk up and whomp his heels together you could hear it for a hundred yards away.”

“You can always watch the changing of the guard — that never gets old,” he said.

Following the presentation, Auxiliary President Jessica Daggett commented on Smith’s Honor Flight talk.

“For me the part of the presentation that stood out to me is the emotion he got from talking about all the names of the lost service members. Sometimes names on monuments just seem like names, when Gerry was speaking, he highlighted the fact that they were people,” Daggett

Harrison SB

(Continued from Page 4A)

fair selectman. I am a dad, husband, business owner and taxpayer in our town of Harrison. I want to live and raise my boys in safe, fun and secure community.

Spaulding: ...The voters and my fellow citizens

will get a listening ear; a spokesperson, when necessary, a reasonable fellow concerned taxpayer who likes to get the most bang for his buck as much as the next person; and a fellow who “puts his pants on the same way as the next guy!”

said.

“Also, when he spoke about the people thanking him for his service and how that isn’t something that

FLIGHT, Page 6A

on Webber Drive. Sunday, May 21 3:26 p.m. 9-1-1 hang-up call on Hattie Pike Road checked.

SPRING CLEANING — Members of the Naples Cemetery Committee and resident volunteers cleaned 22 stones at veterans’ graves in preparation for Memorial Day at the Edes Falls and Chute Cemeteries. Pictured here are Chris Bilodeau and Autumn Bilodeau (age 4) of Naples cleaning John Smith’s stone at Edes Falls. Alison Desrochers, Brenda Leo, Ken Norton, Katie Cash-Staley, George Staley, and Karen Tolli also volunteered on this day.

Cyclist hurt in crash

HARRISON — A

Westbrook man was injured last Thursday as the result of a motorcycle crash on Temple Road in Harrison.

The Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office, Harrison Fire Dept, and PACE Rescue were dispatched to the area of Temple Hill Road (almost to Norway Road) at 5:41 p.m. for the report of a motorcycle down and a male on the roadway not conscious.

The CCSO responding deputy found Zachary

Emerson, 28, who appeared to have suffered a serious head injury. Emerson was not wearing a helmet at the time of the crash, CCSO reported.

Based on the initial investigation, it was determined that Emerson had just worked on the 2007 Honda motorcycle and was taking it for a test drive when the crash occurred. CCSO reported that it appears Emerson lost control of the bike, which caused him to be ejected onto the road-

way. Speed and alcohol do not appear to be factors in the crash, CCSO reported. Emerson was transported to Stephen’s Memorial Hospital in Norway and then taken by Life Flight to the Maine Medical Center. The crash remains under investigation.

The Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office would like to encourage those that operate motorcycles to wear a DOT-compliant helmet as they have and do save lives.

~ Lake Region Maps ~

Great Northern Docks owner and pen/ink artist Sam Merriam, has released a collection of new lake maps. With assistance from his graphic artist brother, Seth, the vintage style, 11x17 on heavy parchment, depict earlier and simpler times in Maine’s Lake Region. Prints are $20 each, and support local food pantries. Maps can also be purchased at the Greater Bridgton Chamber of Commerce, 257 Main St., Suite 1, Bridgton. They can be purchased online at www.greatnortherndocks.com/maps

Maps completed include:

Arrowhead

Cobbossee

Highland Kezar

Little Ossipee

Little Sebago

Long & Brandy

Maranacook

Moose Pond

Sebago Lake

Thomas Pond

Thompson

Trickey Pond

Woods Pond

…and more on the way!

Resumes coming in for Naples manager job

By Dawn De Busk Staff Writer NAPLES — The

resume packages for the Naples town manager position have started to pile up. But not for much longer.

That’s because Friday is the last day to apply for the job.

Those resumes are being sent to Maine Municipal Association (MMA). MMA was contracted by the Naples Board of Selectmen

Memorial Day services

BRIDGTON

American Legion Post 67 will be conducting a Memorial Day Ceremony at Farragut Park in Bridgton (North High Street, across from the Town Hall) on Monday, May 29 at 11 a.m. to honor the lives, courage, and legacy of Bridgton’s fallen service members who lost their lives in the service and defense of this great nation. The public is invited to join the Post in this tribute to Bridgton’s fallen. Please arrive at least 15 minutes early so that everyone can be seated prior to the beginning of the ceremony.

HARRISON

The American Legion Post 139 in Harrison is spearheading the event this year. The parade leaves the ballfield at 9 a.m. on Monday, and ends in the center of town.

CASCO

A Memorial Day service will be held Monday at 9 a.m. at the Casco Veterans Monument in Casco Village. This is the green space in visible from Meadow Road also known as Route 121. The American Legion Post #155 will host the ceremony.

NAPLES

In the Town of Naples, a Memorial Day observance is set to take place at 11 a.m. Monday at the Naples Veterans Monument, which overlook the Naples Town Beach. This ceremony is also led by the American Legion, and community members are invited to the legion hall afterwards.

FRYEBURG

The Memorial Day Parade on Monday begins at 1 p.m., leaving from Bradley Street, turning onto Main Street, and then to the gazebo for programs.

to assist with the hiring of a new town manager after John Hawley announced his resignation in March. Hawley had been with the town for about five years.

The position was advertised long before Hawley’s last day on May 12.

“We have already begun the search process for a permanent town manager,” according to Chairman Jim Grattelo

On Monday night, Grattelo said the job appli-

cation deadline is drawing to a close. That means the process of figuring out who to interview will be one of the next steps, he said.

“As of today, we had 13 applications,” he said. “There are nine other towns looking for town managers so it’s a tough pool. But, we do have applications. The deadline is Friday.”

“The select board is going to set up a committee to review these [resume packages] and start the

interview process,” he said. Also, during Monday’s meeting, Grattelo introduced the person sitting in the manager’s chair at the board table.

“For everyone in the public and in the audience, this is Bill Giroux. We’ve hired him as the interim town manager. He has no desire to be the permanent town manager. He is willing to come on board and help us for the next three to six months,” Grattelo said. “He

Honor Flight journey

(Continued from Page 5A)

happens very much to him,” she said.

“I really enjoyed the presentation, it was enlightening and interesting to see how members of the military respond to the monuments that are placed in Washington DC. The monuments are meant to honor service members so to see how a services member feels about them is great,” she said.

At 91, Smith has a very obvious sense of humor. He often shared things he had observed that he found to be funny or peculiar. Also, he had a very impromptu

humor. When he was told that his presentation was going to be recorded, he said, “You aren’t going to record everything I say. Oh my, I am changing my speech already.”

During the talk, Smith passed around of photo of himself very close to a famous fountain.

“That is me in the wheelchair and I was right on edge — I’m telling you. That’s me in the wheelchair right on edge with the Washington Monument behind me. All it would have taken is a little bit of a shove and I would have gone right into the water,” he said.

100 Main Street Bridgton, ME 04009 (207) 647-3311 (800) 486-3312 (outside Maine)

Over the years for his job, Smith travelled to Washington, DC., at least a dozen times; however, this April was the first time ever that he got to spend time visiting the monuments. That was possible because of Honor Flight Maine. He wrapped up by saying, “I’m glad I went.”

will be at the helm to get us through the summer.”

After a moment, Giroux shared a little bit about himself.

“I am semi-retired,” he began. “I’ve been a manager most of my career. I started working for municipalities when I was in high school. I’ve been a town manager and city manager for the past 25 years. But, now, I just do this parttime. It is not a bad spot to be. I don’t have to come and swallow everything the town has to throw at me.”

He will be working three days a week.

“There are a half dozen people in the state who do this; and there are nine communities who need one [a town manager] right now,” Giroux said.

He mentioned a general timeline that it might take for the town to hire a manager.

MANAGER, Page 10A

Thompson Lake Rights – No Wait-list!

CASCO – Come enjoy Rights to Thompson Lake and go boating, swimming, canoeing and kayaking with no current waiting list for a dock!!! Quietly situated on a ±4.9-acre lot in a small lakeside community is where you’ll find this beautiful ±2,900 sq. ft. contemporary home. One of the best features of this home is the large addition that serves as a fun game room that has a pool table and large sitting area. Features three bedrooms, 2.5 baths, hardwood flooring, stainless steel appliances and a finished basement. Well landscaped lot with a built in fire pit behind the home. $724,900 MLS# 1557235

Own a piece of Naples history

NEW LISTING

Harrison – 300 ft. of deeded access to Long Lake. Nice sandy beach and 12 acres of common area. One-acre level building lot. Current owners have a mooring, and you can swim, kayak and canoe from the beach. $95,000

Bridgton – One minute to PLEASANT MOUNTAIN!!!!

Open kitchen/dining area, sunny living room, full bath and two bedrooms on the first. Finished daylight basement including family room, full bath, laundry room and two bedrooms. Updates include heating system, windows, whole-house generator, floors, covered deck and more. Storage shed, firepit too! Three minutes to Sabattus Island picnic area. Multiple public hiking trails nearby. $410,000

NAPLES – What an opportunity this is… to own a piece of Naples History! Built in the 1700s, this farmhouse has been a staple in the community for centuries. Offering a beautifully restored farmhouse, barn and attached café, two Airbnbs and the historical cupola from the Naples Hotel. Located on highly traveled Route 302, you’ll find this entire property is perfect for an antique shop or to host beautiful events in the large post and beam barn as well as a separate café serving lunch and baked goods to the local and summer crowds! Newly paved circular driveway and parking lot gives easy access to the property. $1,999,999 MLS# 1555162

Ready-to-move into Ranch

OTISFIELD — This beautifully designed three-bedroom Ranch is ready for you to move into! With an open concept gourmet kitchen and living room with gas fireplace, there is plenty of room to entertain. Red oak hardwood and tile flooring throughout the home with granite countertops, SS appliances and a second antique Elmira stove. Whole-house generator, hot tub and a 12 x 20 shed are included with the home. Beautifully landscaped lot with a variety of trees, multi-colored rose bushes, lilacs, hydrangeas and many more perennials. Residents-only beach and boat launch on Pleasant Lake is just a short drive from the home. Broker Interest. $539,900 MLS# 1558579

Spacious Poland Property

Poland – RARE LARGE ACREAGE on peaceful Upper Range Pond in protected cove. Rustic cottage and bunkhouse/ shed. This is the only property on dead end Otter Lane. Offering includes 1/2-acre island. Division potential with town approval OR renovate the cottage on the shore as a guest house and build your dream home for your own compound. Many possibilities for Life As It Should Be in this special tranquil spot. $738,500

Harrison – 10-acre private lot with lots of evergreens, a beautiful stream along the border and plenty of sunshine. Surrounded by a stone wall on one side and the stream on the other, this lot offers many opportunities to build whatever you’d like! Lots of wildlife. $89,000

POLAND – Privately set back on ±5 acres, is this Gambrel style home that offers three large bedrooms, a well-designed kitchen with granite countertops, center island that is open to the living room and dining area!

Enjoy the warm shiplap wall around the cozy woodstove. The home also offers a first floor bedroom, full bath and laundry area. Two more large bedrooms with walk-in closets and full bath await you upstairs. This very spacious home also offers a full walkout basement in case you need more room! Oversized two-car garage and shed on the property. Don’t miss this lovely home! $439,900 MLS# 1555875

Perfect Sebago Lake Getaway

Bridgton – Seventeen townhouse units coming this fall on Mountain Road. One minute to Pleasant Mountain!!! All will have 2-3 bedrooms, 2 1/2 baths, two-car garages, propane fireplaces and heating systems, rear deck, shingled roofing, LP Smart siding, 200-amp electrical service and all appliances included. More information will follow regarding reservations in May. $500,000

Bridgton – Private retail/ business condominium in great location on Main Street currently used as a physical therapy office, with lease in place. Half bath, heat and AC (heat pumps), reception area, handicap ramp, private rooms as well as open space. Small upstairs area for storage. No basement. Public water and sewer. $375,000

PRIVATE LIKE-NEW RANCH

Harrison – Immaculate and private “like new” three BR, two-bath shingled ranch set high on a beautiful 5.5-acre lot with lake views and beautiful sunsets. Gleaming wood floors, beautiful kitchen with brand-new smart LG stainless-steel appliances and custom-made concrete countertops, two stunning full baths – also custom gas fireplace in living area, full basement and attached two-car garage. Two rear decks, professional landscaping and hardscaping and storage shed. Private dead-end road. Must see! $498,000

Home of the Western Maine Council REALTOR®

Liz

SEBAGO – If you are looking for the perfect vacation getaway to Sebago Lake, look no further! This cottage is just steps away from a sandy right of way to Sebago Lake for swimming. The knotty pine and exposed beam interior gives it the Maine charm with three bedrooms having their own private bath, and large kitchen/dining area makes this an excellent place to entertain. There is a marina and town beach for Sebago Residents only less than 1/4 mile away! $299,900 MLS# 1559474

MEMORIAL DAY

Remember and Honor All That Have Served and Continue to Serve

Jocelyn O’Rourke-Shane

Regional Sports

TRACK & FIELD

Lake Region will be one of the hubs of Maine high school track & field Saturday as the Lakers host the Western Maine Conference championships, beginning at 9 a.m.

In their warm-up to the WMC finals, the Lakers traveled last Friday to Yarmouth. It was windy and a bit chilly. This made it difficult to set some personal records (PRs), but a few Lakers did.

Leading the PR charge were Molly Webster, Olivia Roy and Taylor Spearrin. Molly PRed in the 1600 meters by 12 seconds in 6:41.90 and in the triple jump by 3 feet at 27-2, placing fifth. Her 4x400m split (1:13.9) was another PR. Olivia’s PRs were in the javelin by 4 feet at 44-4 and in the shot by 2.5 inches at 18.025. Taylor matched his 5-6 PR in the high jump, placing second. He placed third in the javelin with a PR of 7 feet.

Izzy Apovian matched her PR for the 4x400m split and continued her solid season in the throws, placing third in the javelin (74-10) and winning the discus (80-3).

Grady Kemp won the 1600 meters and the 3200 meters in 10:31.97. His 1600 time of 4:42.74 was a 6-second PR and now ranks eighth in Class B.

“He may have reached cult status with the number of Yarmouth athletes that congratulated him after his 3200meter run,” LR Coach Mark Snow said. “He led a group of them to PRs in that event.”

Tristan Cormier hit his goal splits perfectly and also PRed in the 3200 meters (by 12 seconds).

Other highlights include: Bhavnish Tucker placed second in the 800 meters in 2:18.65 and worked with teammate Ezra Gronlund to PR in the 1600 meters at 4:57.03, good for fourth place. It was Ezra’s first 1600 meters outdoors and his time of 4:57.96 provisionally qualified (PQ) him for states. Bhavnish and Grady had met the PQ mark earlier this season.

Alecssander Freitas placed second to Nolan Garey of Poland in the 300-meter hurdles in 42.44. Both athletes are ranked top 10 in the state, all classes. Alecssander also ran a PR split for the 4x400m relay team that set a seasonal best time and placed second.

Sadie Plummer placed fourth in the 800 meters in 2:43.40 and ran first leg on the 4x400m relay that placed second in 5:05.19 (Izabell Apovian 1:11.1, Molly Webster

1:13.9, Lizzie Brewer 1:28.0).

The LR girls 4x100 Relay picked up fourth place in 1:07.58. The foursome included Reannah Dingley, Lizzie Brewer, Samantha Kilgore and Jonalisa King.

The LR boys 4x400 relay was second in 3:57.29 — Bhavnish Tucker 59.1, Lucian Bassett 64.3, Alecssander Freitas 57.8, Ezra Gronlund 56.1. GIRLS’ TENNIS

NYA 4, Lakers 1

#1 Singles: Greta Tod (NYA) def. Kasey Johnson (LR)

7-5 6-3

#2 Singles: Athena Gee (NYA) def. Sarah Solomon (LR) 6-2 8-6

#3 Singles: Emily Robbins (NYA) def. Ava Smith (LR)

6-1 6-0

#1 Doubles: Sasha Schutz/Lexi Sharpe (NYA) def.

Rianna Reynolds/Susie Butler (LR) 6-2 6-3

#2 Double: Katie Peterson/Asia Sirolla (LR) def. Gabi

Muehle/Chloe Shervanick (NYA) 7-6 (4) 6-4 BOYS’ TENNIS

Waynflete 4, Lakers 1

#1 Singles: Basil DiBenedetto (W) def. Abe Richards (LR) 6-4, 6-3

#2 Singles: Max Sherman (W) def. Hunter Martin (LR)

7-5, 6-2

#3 Singles: Andrew Rogers (W) def. John Kimball (LR)

6-0, 6-0

#1 Doubles: Noah Stern Rich/Joles Kirby (W) def. Brady Emery/Ben Peterson (LR) 6-0, 6-0

#2 Doubles: Shane Labrecque/Max Shorty (LR) def. Vinny Stucchi/Soren Scathall (W) 6-3, 4-6, 10-7 tie breaker.

SOFTBALL

Lakers 17, Wells 5: Lead-off hitter Kylie Myers went 4-for-5 with four runs scored to pace a 21-hit attack as the Lakers throttled Wells on the road. Myers set the pace by cracking a triple to start the game, scoring on a Margo Tremblay (2-for-5) triple.

Melissa Mayo had a big day at bat, going 3-for-4 with 3 RBI. Lyla Levesque also knocked 3 hits and drove in 2 runs, while Mallory Smith had 3 hits and collected 3 RBI.

The Lakers jumped out to a 4-0 lead in the first, added 4 more runs in the second, plated 2 runs in the third and fifth frames, and closed out the game with 5 runs in the sixth.

Mayo struck out 12 Wells hitters, giving up 8 hits. Wells touched up Mayo with 3 runs in the first, but would not reach home plate again until the sixth, scoring twice.

York 3, Lakers 0: McKayla Kortes mesmorized the Lakers at York last Friday, firing a no hitter, striking out five. The Lakers had only three base runners all day, two by walk and one on an error.

York scored the only run the Cats would need in the first inning on a walk, stolen base and RBI single by Kortes. Laker pitcher Melissa Mayo worked out of a big jam in the second as the Cats knocked a double and single.

LAKERS ON THE MOVE — Top, clockwise, Alecssander Freitas clearing the hurdles. The Lakers will be hosting the WMC Championships this Saturday; Ashley Pelletier looks for a teammate to pass to in girls’ lacrosse action; Jacob Chadbourne reacts to a tight inside pitch; up and throwing a runner out is Margo Tremblay, helping the Lakers to a 9-2 record; and Molly Webster reaching for distance in a recent jumping event.

(Track photos by Kevin Murphy)

By Whit Lesure Highlands Golf Columnist

While the fortunes of New England winter sports fans have recently crashed and burned (read Bruins and Celtics), the hearts and souls

of golf enthusiasts throughout the Lake Region have been lifted by the superior early season condition of the recently opened Bridgton Highlands Country Club. Lush green fairways, now

But, Mayo stymied York by striking out three consecutive hitters.

York added two insurance runs in the fifth on a walk, an error and a single.

Mayo struck out eight, walked two and scattered five hits.

Lakers 7, Greely 0: Avery Ver Wey connected on a 2-run single to key a 5 run second inning as the Lakers blanked the Rangers Monday. LR added 2 runs on a Ranger error.

After being retired in order in the third, the Lakers tacked on two more runs in the fourth as Vylet Robbins singled and Kylie Myers tripled with two outs. Margo Tremblay singled home Myers (who went 2-for-3). The Lakers had 7 hits with Mallory Smith chipping in with a single.

Melissa Mayo dominated the Rangers, striking out 13 while giving up just two hits — singles in the fourth and fifth innings. She struck out the side in the third, and struck out two of three hitters in the fifth and seventh innings.

Up next: The Lakers (9-2) host Cape Elizabeth (7-6) on Friday at 4 p.m., travel to Brunswick (7-5) on Saturday, host Traip Academy (1-11) Tuesday at 4 p.m. and close out the regular season next Wednesday, May 31 at home against Sacopee Valley (7-6) at 3 p.m.

Heal Rating: The Lakers are ranked #3 in Class B South.

Chip shots: Gladly seeing Green

just a wee bit tighter, and silky-smooth greens being “rolled” as if they weren’t good enough already, await the annual onslaught of the Memorial Day Weekend flatlanders (read Massachusetts) to signal the unofficial start of summer. My favorite weatherman by choice (read Iphone) predicts a continuation of the beautiful weather recently that has eased the sting of a miserable late winter and early spring. If there’s any truth to the rumor of an in-house wager between the Grounds Crew and Club House staffs to see who would make the

SPORTS NOTEBOOK, Page 8A GOLF, Page 8A

bigger splash this year, led respectively by Head Superintendent George Thomas and Head Pro John Boswell, there is no doubt that “the Grass-Whisperer” Thomas and his “Merry Men” of the fairway forests have landed the first punch. Those in the know contend the gregarious and often outspoken Boswell will most certainly have something to say about this and will very likely light a fire under his veteran charges before the summer is through. Let’s hope he has more luck than both “Beantown” leaders Jim Montgomery and Joe Mazzulla.

Dan Cahill returns as Assistant Pro bringing his larger than life personality, talent, and creativity (beyond his outfits) to the scene reminiscent of his childhood idol Jerry Garcia.

Mike Shea is once again heading up the food and beverage service and you definitely want what he’s cooking up on the grill or pouring into your glass. As a friendly reminder, tips are always appreciated and are not a transmitter of social disease in this inflationary world we all inhabit at the moment. Meanwhile, the calming presence of veteran mainstays Jim Mains and

Bob Surette team up with Peter Boswell (the humility comes from his mother) to make sure that every golfer’s experience from dawn to dusk is a good one at our hidden gem of a “track.”

The “Scramble” season kicked off last week signaling the start of the weekly fun and competition most suitable for mature audiences. Stay tuned for verification of tight-lipped information circling these parts that the Scramble may be limited to one night a week beginning in June. If true, “Scramble Czar” Bob Bissonnette may be presiding over an angry

Laker weekly sports notebook

(Continued from Page 7A)

BASEBALL

Wells 12, Lakers 0:

Caden Dufort drove in five runs and Caleb Moody pitched a two-hitter for the Warriors (7-4) in a fiveinning win over the Lakers (1-10) at Wells.

“Seemed like we just couldn’t slow the game down, add in the fact Wells was a very locked in offensive team, it made for a tough outcome,” Laker Coach Andrew Stacy said.

York 11, Lakers 1: John Jacobsohn allowed two hits over four innings, and went 2-for-2 with two RBI to lead the Wildcats (6-6) over the Lakers (1-11) in five innings at York.

Jack Joyce homered for York, which scored three runs in the second and third innings, then put it away with a five-run fourth.

Jacob Chadbourne had two of the four hits for the Lakers. Chadbourne also started on the hill giving the Lakers a solid four innings.

“Chad was really hitting his spots, and unfortunate-

ly every mistake we make right now seems to get magnified, so a couple defensive miscues and its 4-0,” Coach Stacy said. “We just keep showing up and putting the work this will improve, just a matter of when.”

Greely 19, Lakers 0: The Lakers fell behind early and couldn’t come back in a 19-0 loss to Greely on Monday. “Greely is a well-coached baseball team who has greatly improved,” Coach

Stacy said. “Unfortunately, they started hot and we just couldn’t find a way to catch up.”

Up next: The Lakers host Cape Elizabeth on Friday at 4 p.m.

BOYS’ LACROSSE

Massabesic 17, Lakers

8: Josiah England scored 3 goals and added an assist in the Lakers loss to the Mustangs. Zach Vogel also recorded a hat trick, while Kolbie Kaeser and Aiden Bourgoin each had a goal and an assist. Goalie Gabe Lunt made 9 saves.

NYA 14, Lakers 3: Josiah England was efficient in his shot attempts, scoring 3 times on 5 shots, but the Lakers were unable to keep pace with the Panthers. Gavin McClellan recorded 8 saves.

York 20, Lakers 2: Zach Vogel and Kolbie Kaeser scored for the Lakers, while goalie Colin Donovan turned aside 7 shots.

Up next: The Lakers (2-11) host Massabesic on Wednesday at 4:30 p.m., and Deering next Thursday, June 1.

Bridgton Highlands chip shots

(Continued from Page 7A)

hornet’s nest of weekly sign up activity if past popularity is any indication of the local enthusiasm for this lively

event. Due to editing deadlines the report here will continue to necessitate a wrap-up of the previous week. On

Lovell tourney June 4

LOVELL — Spring is here and it’s time to hit the links! Sign up now to guarantee your spot in the Charlotte Hobbs Memorial Library’s 6th Annual Golf Tournament on Sunday, June 4 at the beautiful Lake Kezar Country Club in Lovell.

Teams of four will compete in a best ball scramble beginning at 8:30 a.m. (day-of registration will begin at 7:30). Coffee and snacks will be provided prior to the start of the tournament.

There will be prizes for both gross and net scores, closest to the pin, and longest drive.

Sign-up cost of $65 per person includes breakfast items, lunch, player goodie bag and greens fees. Great items will be up for bid in the silent auction and all participants will enjoy a delicious lunch.

All proceeds from the event will benefit the Hobbs Library. For more information about registering, or to become a sponsor, please go to www.hobbslibrary.org and search “Golf Tournament” under Events or call the library at 925-3177. You can also call tournament chairs Alice and Dave Carberry at 207-697-4060 or e-mail ackingfishercc@gmail.com.

Tuesday, Low Gross was won by “the Silver Foxes” team of Ricky “Shotgun” Marcella, Bobby “Shooter” Holden, Joe “the pride of BA” Hemmings, and Whit “the meanest nice guy around” Lesure at 5-under in a tie-breaker. Word to the wise, “birdie” #9 if you want to win. Settling for 2nd Gross was the Czar Bissonnette himself and his handy henchmen Chris Harriman, Steve Vacchiano, and Pete “Gator” Gately. 3rd Gross went to the trio of Josh “the buck stops here” Truman, Seth Purdy, and Sam Ross. 1st Net was captured by the foursome of Gordon Perry, Bobby Allen, Joe Murphy, and Gene Guptil. 2nd Net was won by the group of Jake “the Pineapple” Dole, Jeff Marahout, Anthony “not barefoot” Attianese, and Craig Belhumeur. 3rd Net went to the ageless foursome of Bob “call me play-

off Jimmy” Surette, Perry Gibson, Dana Phillips, and “Jungle” Jim Semple. NTP #2 was won by Peter Suorsa at an impressive Michael Block-like 1-foot 1-inch. NTP #8 was captured by Joe Murphy at a more pedestrian 4-feet 4-inches.

Thursday’s Scramble Low Gross win belonged to the team of Bob Bissonnette, Chris Harriman, Butch “I was winning golf tournaments when you were in diapers” Farley, and Steve Vacchiano. Taking 2nd Gross was the team of Jim “just living my dream at USM” Hopkins, Rick “Shotgun” Marcella, Will Winter, and Chris Theodores. 1st Net was won by the group of Jim “Miller” Barber, Duane “Jimi” Hendrix, Richard Packard, and Lauren Packard. 2nd Net went to the familiar foursome of Jim “smoke ’em if you got ’em”

HIGHLANDS, Page 9A

Hancock Lumber’s

PLAYERS OF THE WEEK

Jacob Chadbourne Ava Smith

Lake Region varsity

girls’ tennis Coach Jenny Dunn selected Ava Smith as the Athletic Boosters Club and Hancock Lumber Player of the Week because “Ava has shown up, worked hard, and has improved every practice and match.”

Ava recently powered through a difficult threeset match where she came from behind and won vs a tough Freeport opponent.

“This was a long and tough battle both mentally and physically, but Ava showed her strength and came through!” Coach Dunn said. “Ava’s match helped the entire team win their best and toughest match of the season!”

In recognition of her strong work ethic, determination, commitment and good sportsmanship, Ava is this week’s Boosters and Hancock Lumber “Player of the Week.”

Each week, a Lake Region athlete is recognized for his/her dedication (does more than what is asked), work ethic, coachability and academic good standing. Recipients receive a specially-designed t-shirt, sponsored by Hancock Lumber.

Player Profile

Athlete: Ava Smith

Year in School: Junior

Hometown: Casco

Parent: Megan Smith

Sports you Play: Tennis, Basketball, and Volleyball School organizations: Math Team, Interact,

Jacob Chadbourne has always been a talented athlete, but this year, he has taken on more of a leadership role, Lake Region varsity baseball Coach Andrew Stacy said.

“As a senior with his experience, I expected that from him, and his willingness to constantly challenge himself and improve himself as a young man is a nice example to see,” Coach Stacy said.

In recognition of his strong work ethic, determination, commitment and good sportsmanship, Jacob is this week’s Boosters and Hancock Lumber “Player of the Week.” Each week, a Lake Region athlete is recognized for his/her dedication (does more than what is asked), work ethic, coachability and academic good standing. Recipients receive a specially-designed t-shirt, sponsored by Hancock Lumber.

Player Profile

Athlete: Jacob Chadbourne

Year in School: Senior

Hometown: Bridgton

Parents: Gary and Laurie Chadbourne

Sports you Play: Baseball, Basketball and Soccer

Q. Why did you choose baseball? As a little kid, I loved playing so it stuck with me.

Q. Complete the following, “I know I’ve had JACOB, Page 9A AVA, Page 9A

Gracious and Stunning Federal Colonial Home in Harrison, Maine

Many wonderful features surround this gracious home in Harrison, Maine. The original colonial home was built in 1810 and the addition and three-car garage added in 1994/1995. The grounds include a large pond with foot bridge and field across from the home. A delightful patio and gardens outside the glass doors. There is also a 20' x 40' in-ground pool to enjoy in the warmer months. In-law apartment. A large fenced in area for pets and children off the back of the home. Great privacy with fenced in back yard and extended fenced in pool area. Woods surround the open areas with much wildlife to enjoy. Approx. 9.1 acres.

The home has been completely renovated throughout the years. Each room has been given its own unique style to enjoy a little old with updated new. Wide pine floors throughout most of the home.

The location is five miles from Naples Causeway, six miles from Harrison Center and 20 minutes to Bridgton area. Many lakes to enjoy, Shawnee Peak and Sunday River for skiing. One hour from North Conway, Lewiston, and Portland. Broker owned.

Offered at $699,900

PROTECTING THE BALL is Lake Region’s Aiden Bourgoin during varsity lacrosse action.

Player of Week: Ava Smith

(Continued from Page 8A)

Project Planet School honors: Science

Q. Why did you choose tennis? I chose this sport because I knew I looked good in a tennis skirt so I decided to give it a shot to try new things. After the first practice, I realized how fun this sport was and I am so glad I gave it a try. I am already excited for the next season.

Q. Complete the following, “I know I’ve had a good match if…” I know I’ve had a good match if I win, if I am being completely honest. No one is exactly enthused about

losing. However, if I have improved since my last match, I am able to take that as a small victory to try and keep myself from getting too negative.

Q. What goes through your mind before a big match? I try to calm myself down as it is not helpful to be pent up with anxiety before any type of competition. I can’t say that there is anything specific that goes through my mind other than remembering the things I am trying to work on so I can try to improve individually.

Q. If things are not going well, what do you

Jacob Chadbourne

(Continued from Page 8A)

a good game if…” I have done everything I can to try and make my team win.

Q. What goes through your mind before a big game? Focus on the things I can control.

Q. If things are not going well, what do you do to rebound and clear your mind to be more positive?

Take a deep breath in and relax.

Q. How has sports changed you as a person? It has given me friendships with all my teammates.

Q. What is the biggest reward you get from competing in sports? The biggest reward is winning a state championship with your teammates.

do to rebound and clear your mind to be more positive? I try to focus on the good things and remember that no one is perfect all the time. It also helps that I have such an amazing support system behind me. I can count on my teammates, coaches and family to pick me up and remind me that even though it may not feel the best that it is not the end of the world.

Q. How has sports changed you as a person? Sports have helped me build a strong work ethic, and has taught me how to be a part of a team, which will follow me into college as well as the rest of my life.

Q. What is the biggest reward you get from competing in sports? The relationships I have built with my teammates has been the biggest reward from sports. I love how many friendships I have been able to form throughout the years. Sports take up a big part of my life and it makes it a lot easier and more fun knowing that I have teammates that double as friends.

Highlands chip shots

(Continued from Page 8A)

Apovian, Brian Grosso, Jeremy “tennis anyone?”

Meunch, and Mark Nolette.

Saturday morning saw the “Sweeps” action get underway with “Dollar”

Bill Kavanagh winning

Low Gross and Russ “swing it” Sweet earning Low Net. Team Low Gross went to the aforementioned Kavanagh paired up with Kenny “the Jet” Mushrow. Team Net belonged to Russ Sweet and Whit Lesure. Individual Quota went to “all good guy” Wes Wisse – say that three times fast. NTP #13 belonged to Russ Sweet.

On Sunday, Bill Kavanagh accomplished the

rare “weekend double” with Low Gross best 77. Jim Macklin earned Low Net. Team Low Gross was won by Jim Macklin and Jim Thombs. Russ Sweet and Bob Surette paired up to win Team Net. Jim Thombs won the Individual Quota with a gutty 35 effort on the back-nine. Ted “the Bear” Raymond shamelessly accepted the NTP #10 at 27-feet 8-inches. Asked for comment following his successful weekend, the wily Kavanagh hinted that the Celtics might have had something to do with it: “No one is a bigger fan than I am, and frankly the losing is embarrassing. I think I brought a little of that edge

SAD 61 Superintendent of Schools Al Smith informed the full house inside the Lake Region Vocational Center’s Great Room, “I always say the same thing,” when he started to talk about the Laker Pride Award presentation. It is always one of his favorite nights, “and I mean it,” Smith told parents and families in attendance.

Laker Pride honors were bestowed on students, who were nominated by staff and teachers, based on the following: positive role model, reliable, trustworthy, respectful, conscientious, consistently helpful to staff and fellow students and selfless. Staff members were also honored for “promoting, creating and enhancing a positive school community.”

Those presented certificates and t-shirts were: Stevens Brook Elementary

Pre-Kindergarten: Rian Hirsh, nominated by Mrs. Janelle Foster, “Rian is kindhearted and a determined student. He is flexible and understanding always tries his best, and encourages others to do the same. He is truly a shining star in our classroom community! I am so proud of him and all he has learned this year. Keep up the great work Rian!”

Kindergarten: Oakley Rehmert, nominated by Mrs. Melissa Warren, “Oakley has a positive attitude that is contagious in the

classroom and draws out the best in others. He is a hardworking student who always strives to do his best. This is evident in the tremendous progress he has made in all areas since beginning kindergarten.”

Grade 1: Brynne Franklin, nominated by Mrs. Tracy Philbrook, “Brynne exemplifies what it means to have Laker Pride. She is consistently safe, respectful, responsible, and ready to learn. She often goes above and beyond to be helpful to both me and her classmates. She is a wonderful role model and we are so proud to have her in our class community.”

Grade 2: Eli Kimball, nominated by Mrs. Deb Roy, “Eli is a role model in our classroom and school community. He is dedicated to his learning and a respectful

and trustworthy peer.”

Grade 3: Norah Foster nominated by Mrs. Karen Lepage, “Norah is a role model student for her peers. She is always safe, respectful, and responsible, and challenges herself academically. We are very lucky to have Norah in our class.”

Grade 4: Kevin Richardson , nominated by Mrs. Smith, “Kevin is a thoughtful and kind member of our school community. He goes out of his way to make others feel welcome and important.”

Grade 5: Parker Izaryk nominated by Mrs. Allison Sands, “Parker is a model student. He is a natural-born leader, with kindness in his heart. He is a friend to all. He works hard every day and in every subject. He is the kind of student every

to the course with me this weekend.”

Finally, on a serious note, RIP Bill Bearse, long-time BHCC member, Bridgton Academy teacher and coach, and good friend and mentor to so many well beyond the golfing community. You will be missed. I would love to be a fly on the wall to some of your heavenly conversations. Bill was an “original” and our well wishes extend to Lee, his wife and BHCC golfing buddy, daughter Emily, and son Asa. Play a “nine” sometime and you are bound to hear his words of encouragement and advise from above.

STEVENS BROOK ELEMENTARY Laker Pride honorees include (left to right) Kevin Richardson, Norah Foster, Eli Kimball, Brynne Franklin, Oakley Rehmert, Rian Hirsh and staff member LeeAnn VanAtta.

CROOKED RIVER Laker Pride honorees include (left to right) Aubrey Klimek, Grace McAllister and Lucas Lerman. (Rivet Photos)

SONGO LOCKS Laker Pride honorees include (left to right) Lucy O’Gradney, Violet Richards, Grayson Chadwick and staff member Alexandria Hafford.

PRIDE, Page 10A

Pride Awards

(Continued from Page 9A)

teacher is happy to have in class!”

Staff Member: LeeAnn VanAtta, nominated by Mrs. Abby Meredith, “Lee Ann is always going above and beyond to make our SBES community feel welcomed and connected.”

Songo Locks

Elementary School Pre-K: Grayson Chadwick, nominated by Janice Labrecque, “Grayson has grown so much this year! He can spell his name and he’s learning lots of letters and sounds. He’s a

role model for his peers. He always follows directions, he’s quick to help clean up and to help his friends. He comes to school every day with a smile on his face, a positive attitude and enthusiasm to learn.”

Kindergarten: Violet Richards, nominated by Jeanine Nadeau, “Violet is a silent leader. She is kind, accepting, and inviting to all her friends, new and old. Violet is a role model in the classroom, both academically and socially. I can always rely on Violet to help a friend and give 100 percent

Manager search

(Continued from Page 6A)

“I am here for three to six months until you get a town manager. Last time, it took 10 months. I’ll stay until you get a new manager,” Giroux said. “I think I can hold the fort down.”

Around the state, there has been an increase in town manager openings.

Some of the municipalities looking for a town manager include Lyman and Limestone. The Town of Monson was advertising for one in January 2023. The City of Portland searched for the most suitable candidate for a year-and-a-half, following the resignation of Jon Jennings in November 2021. Within the past week, on May 19, that search ended when Danielle West was hired by the Portland City Council. West had been the interim city manager since November 2021.

when working on a task.”

Grade 1: John Proctor, nominated by Shantelle Roberts, “Working hard when he is in school and making sure that he is always trying his best. John has been making great gains in reading and learning how to count money. He has a smile that lights up the room!”

Grade 2: Lucy O’ Gradney, nominated by Danielle Prescott, “Lucy has been such a role model for the other kids. She is always trying her hardest no matter how challenged she is and is always advocating for herself when she needs something. Her peers have repeatedly told me that Lucy is one of the kindest students in the class because of her willingness to help even if a peer isn’t being the nicest back to her.”

Staff Member: Alli Hafford, nominated by Bridget DelPrete and Danielle Arn, “Alli’s caring and consistent presence gives her students the support they need to be their best selves each day. Alli has positively reinforcing language that sets the tone for a wonderful classroom climate. Thank you for all that you do! You are amazing!”

Staff Member: Kelly Scammon , nominated

by Bridget DelPrete and Danielle Arn, “Kelly is a dedicated and consistent teacher. She is always looking for new and fun projects for her students to enjoy. She continues to grow in her new role. We are so thankful for her!”

Crooked River Elementary School

Grade 3: Lucas Lerman, nominated by Alysha Alling, “Lucas joined our school community in January and since then has been nothing but kind, courteous, and curious to learn. He is a model student who works hard to discover new understandings. He is a great classroom helper, and even spearheaded the movement to clean up trash on the playground. Lucas has been a wonderful addition to our classroom and school and definitely represents Laker Pride!”

Grade 4: Grace McAllister, nominated by Ms. Shane and Mr. Gagne, “Grace is involved in band and extended studies. She is a role model to peers of hard work, perseverance, and always being respectful. Grace is a good friend to others and demonstrates those qualities.”

Grade 5: Aubrey Klimek, nominated by Ms. Shane and Mr. Gagne, “Aubrey is involved in the Three Cs and extended stud-

ies. She is a role model to peers of hard work, perseverance, and always being respectful. Aubrey is a good friend to others and demonstrates those qualities.”

Staff Member: Paul

Harmon is Head custodian, nominated by Ms. Shane and Mr. Gagne. “Paul does an amazing job keeping our school clean here at CRES. He is hard-working and diligent. He is friendly and always has a smile on his face. Paul has built relationships with several students and is always available if they want a break with him. Everybody loves Mr. Harmon!”

Lake Region Middle School

Grade 6: Kinsley Daigle, nominated by Team Kibby.

Grade 6: Kendall Webb, nominated by Team Cadillac.

Grade 7: Madeline St. Cyr, nominated by Team Acadia.

Grade 7: Mattasyn Dearborn, nominated by Team Tumbledown.

Grade 8: Harlow Ross, nominated by Team Sugarloaf.

Grade 8: Brailey Sands, nominated by Team Kineo.

Staff Member: Amy Politano, nominated by Team Tumbledown.

Staff Member: Susan

Hodge, nominated by Team Acadia.

Lake Region High School

Grade 9: Matthew Plummer, nominated by Mrs. Toohey.

Grade 9: Cameran Kollander, nominated by Ms. Ortiz.

Grade 10: Shane Labrecque, nominated by Ms. Bolduc.

Grade 10: Madelyn McDougall, nominated by Mr. Dorner.

Grade 11: Shane Richards, nominated by Mrs. Russo.

Grade 11: Aliviah Berry nominated by Mr. Stacy.

Grade 12: William Mitchell, nominated by Mrs. Andrews.

Grade 12: Abigail Littlefield, nominated by Mr. Coady.

Staff Member: Jessie Toohey, nominated by Mr. Dorner. Lake Region

Vocational Center

Staff Member: Tricia Lafontaine, nominated by staff.

Transportation,

Facilities, Maintenance

Staff Member: Zoe Snow, nominated by staff.

Adult Education

Staff Member: Rhonda Jacobson, nominated by staff.

Opinion &

Earth Notes

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

Black flies? Mosquitoes?

Yes, please!

By Mary Jewett Guest Columnist

We all know the classic rhyme, April showers bring May flowers. May also brings an influx of annoying biting insects. For many (most?) people, this leads to feelings ranging from mild annoyance to fully formed rage against the bloodsuckers. Most of us have seen the classic comics naming the mosquito as Maine’s state bird, with the terrifying image of a giant mosquito, dripping blood from its needle-like proboscis.

As with anything, there are those who feel much differently about the season. Enter me, the birder, the birdwatcher, the one who relished the first black fly getting stuck in my eye. For without the bugs, our feathered friends would not be here. We have many species who remain in Maine in the winter (see article from January about the Christmas Bird Count) but even they would not survive and thrive without bugs. Fruit and seeds will only get you so far; you need protein if you’re going to raise healthy young ‘uns.

For some, spring starts when they see the first robin, shouting out “the robins are back!” Being an insufferable know-it-all, I have to point out that not all robins migrate, so those robins maybe have been here the whole time. Same thing with bluebirds I’m afraid. The true harbinger of spring

BLACK FLIES, Page 4B

Pears, Potatoes and Hawthorne

Howdy neighbor! Do you like potatoes? How about apples? What about strawberries or pears? I for one answer “yes” to all of the above, and it’s likely you will too, but have you ever stopped to consider the fact that today, typically the produce you buy at the local grocer is not the same as the produce our forefathers here grew and enjoyed? Now, they had potatoes, and apples, and pears and strawberries of course, but in many cases the kinds of fruit and vegetables, that is to say the species grown, were widely different from those we now enjoy today. We might possibly call these olden varieties ‘heirlooms,’ but that’s almost not the right word for them, as in the vast number of cases these old species are more than rare today, they’re entirely extinct!

Apples are, of course, the chief interest of our region; once a bumper crop hereabouts, it seems every farmer worth his salt had dozens of varietals in his orchards, including some which were native to and first invented by farmers right here in western Maine. In particular, Sweden once had two unique species of apple which grew nowhere else and which were apparently both delicious; but while I’d like to do a column on these apples in the coming fall of this year, as far as today’s column goes that’s rather low hanging fruit, pardon the pun.

Apples are like that, every crop can produce a new

by Michael Davis BHS Assistant Director

variety, so for today I’d like to turn and look at other kinds of unique area produce, as well as the experimental farmers who raised them. We’ll be looking at the Pears and Potatoes of Raymond, Maine; for the information of which I am indebted in equal measure to the RaymondCasco Historical Society and also Nathaniel Hawthorne.

First, the humble pear. As it happened, there are two native Maine pear varieties originating in Raymond. First, the eponymous Raymond pear, a new stock that arose spontaneously from seed of another variety in the 1820s, on the farm of Dr. Joseph Wight in Raymond. In 1832, the Pomological Manual declared the Raymond to be “of fine quality and good flavor,” a sentiment shared by the 1837 Magazine of Botany and Gardening, which

HAWTHORNE, Page 2B

United States of Amnesia

“We are the United States of Amnesia. We learn nothing because we remember nothing.”

CHESTNUT-SIDED warbler has been spotted at Pondicherry Park.

Loss of great man

To The Editor: John Hawley, the town manager of Naples, resigned his position in May. He did a wonderful job. Once in a while, we find an individual who excels. John Hawley is one of those people. He has made Naples a leader in professional management. Our town has been setting the example for small towns in Maine.

John Hawley is the kind of individual who does the jobs you never see, yet affects the town in every area, saving thousands of dollars because when things run smoothly the costs are lower across the board. Naples should be looking for someone who is capable of doing the job as well as John Hawley. This won’t be easy. Naples would be foolish to do anything less as the costs on every level would be a disaster bringing even greater sadness to Naples. There is a quote that reminds me of John Hawley — “It is not the critic who counts, not the man who points out how the strong man stumbled or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust, sweat and blood, who strives valiantly, who errs and comes up short again; who knows the great enthusiasm, the great devotions, and spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end tri-

umph of high achievement; and who at the worst if he fails while doing greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who know neither victory or defeat.’” (Theodore Roosevelt)

In the end, this quote reminds me of John Hawley. These are the qualities we will miss. We wish John Hawley the very best of everything. May his life be filled with joy and triumph. Thank you from the town of Naples.

Bob Nyberg Naples

Worth contemplating

To The Editor: As the left aided and abetted by their media allies prattle on with their accusations that Republicans are the party of hate, consider the following comment offered by former Congressman Allan West:

“The Democrat party is the world’s most successful hate group. It attracts poor people who hate rich people, black people who hate white people, gay people who hate straight people, feminists who hate men, environmentalist who hate the internal combustion engine, and a lot of bratty college kids who hate their parents. However, the real secret of the party’s success is that it attracts the support of journalist who hate Republicans, and who therefore worked tirelessly to convince the rest of us that we should vote for Democrats.”

They feign hypocritical interest in tolerance, inclusion, freedom of speech, and bipartisanship, but none

That’s the most famous quotation from the very quotable writer and social critic, Gore Vidal. His colorful aphorism was an artillery shell, aimed directly at American aversion to learning honest, accurate history. Our national resistance to historical facts reminds me somewhat of a dark-humor joke from Stalin’s USSR. Question: What is the definition of a Soviet historian? Answer: A man who can predict the past! For Russians, understanding the past has required them to accept that their past would be rewritten every time the government changed. Consider two classic examples of America’s historical mythologizing. First, Columbus did not “discover” America. Indigenous peoples had lived here more than 20,000 years before any Europeans arrived. The first Europeans to explore North America were Nordic Vikings, who built settlements here nearly five centuries before Columbus. That’s why many states now recognize Indigenous People’s Day, instead of Columbus Day.

Second, Davy Crockett did not “go down swinging” at the Alamo, fighting for freedom from the evil Mexicans. That’s the mythical Walt Disney version. Historical records, written by people who were there, indicate that no one drew a “line in the sand,” across which stepped all but one defender. Roughly half of the Alamo defenders were Anglo-Americans. The other half were Tejanos-Mexicans living in northern

of it is sincere or real.

Mr. West is a wise man.

Don Vose Naples

Breaking the Chains of Apathy

To The Editor:

Apathy, characterized by a lack of interest, enthusiasm, or concern, poses a significant danger to humanity. However, one often overlooked factor in generating an apathetic mindset is carnism, the belief system that devalues the lives of animals.

When a person adopts a carnistic mindset, it becomes increasingly challenging to extend compassion and empathy beyond human boundaries. This not only perpetuates the suffering of animals but also hinders our ability to address pressing societal and environmental issues.

Carnism fosters a sense of indifference and disconnect from the plight of ani-

mals. By perceiving certain animals as commodities or objects for consumption, individuals become desensitized to their suffering and rights. This mindset contributes to a wider apathy, extending beyond the realm of animal welfare and permeating other areas of concern.

Moreover, carnism fuels a cycle of violence and injustice. The industrial farming system, driven by carnistic beliefs, subjects animals to immense cruelty, confinement, and exploitation. However, this systemic violence not only affects animals but also perpetuates social and environmental issues.

The resources consumed by factory farming, such as land, water, and crops, contribute to environmental degradation and exacerbate global issues like deforestation, water scarcity, and climate change. Yet, the apathetic mindset generated by carnism allows these problems to persist, as people fail to acknowledge or address the underlying

by Rev. Robert Plaisted Guest Columnist

Mexico, aka, Texas, before Anglos arrived. Crockett was not killed as the defenders “fought to the last man.” Most of them surrendered, Davy included. Later, they all were executed for treason. Texas was still legally part of Mexico, and the defenders had committed an insurrection against the Mexican government.

Those are just two out of many cases where myths and legends about our past have obscured factual history. It’s the sort of thing that bothered Vidal when he wrote, “We learn nothing because we remember nothing.” No one remembers precisely what happened in the past. Good historians write with an eye on their own biases and viewpoints. No one gets history exactly right, because memory is fallible. Good scholarship requires that we at least try to get the facts correct, to the best of our ability, and be prepared to accept new facts when they challenge our misconceptions.

AMNESIA, Page 2B

change.

causes.

Carnism’s influence on apathy extends beyond the realm of animal rights and the environment. It also impacts our ability to foster empathy and compassion within society.

When people become detached from the suffering of animals, it becomes increasingly challenging to extend compassion toward other human beings. This lack of empathy hampers efforts to address social injustices and inequalities. Apathy toward human suffering and struggles further marginalizes vulnerable communities and perpetuates societal divisions.

Shifting away from this apathetic mindset generated by carnism requires a fundamental change in our attitudes and beliefs. We must recognize the inherent value of all beings and acknowledge the interconnectedness of our actions. By adopting a more compassionate and mindful approach to our food choices and lifestyles, we can break the cycle of apathy and promote positive

Education and raising awareness about the impact of carnism on our mindset and society are crucial steps toward combatting apathy. By highlighting the ethical, environmental, and social consequences of our choices, we can inspire individuals to reevaluate their beliefs and embrace a more empathetic and compassionate mindset.

In summary, carnism, with its devaluation of animals’ lives, significantly contributes to the generation of an apathetic mindset. By perceiving animals as commodities and objects for consumption, we as a society become disconnected from their suffering and extend this indifference to other areas of concern.

Breaking free from this apathetic mindset requires a shift in attitudes and a recognition of the interconnectedness of our actions.

By promoting education and raising awareness, we can inspire a more compassionate and empathetic

AMAZING COLOR as this Denmark tree is in full spring blossom. (Photo by Pam Ward)

(Continued from Page 1B)

society, capable of addressing pressing issues and fostering positive change.

Michael Corthell Bridgton

January 6th

To The Editor:

On May 18, 2023, The Bridgton News published two letters to the editor addressing my letter of May 11. The first was from Mr. Don Vose. Mr. Vose, you have no credibility. You wrote time and again in The Bridgton News — the events of Jan. 6, 2021, in Washington, D.C. were a protest, not an insurrection, and when finished, the protesters went home to dinner.

Mr. Vose, Stewart Rhodes and Enrique Tarrio and their fellow Trumplican protesters are convicted of seditious conspiracy, for their efforts to overthrow the government of the United States. Mr. Vose, those “protesters” will be eating dinner in prison for a long time to come!

In the second letter, Mr. Mark Lopez makes the

point our country is headed in the wrong direction, and “We will lose our way of life…” Mr. Lopez, the actions of Messrs. Stewart Rhodes and Enrique Tarrio clearly illustrate the direction our nation is currently headed. These two, and their Trumplican followers, are convicted of seditious conspiracy for their efforts to overthrow the government of the United States. Their cause was taken up on May 14, 2023 by the Patriot Front, yet another white supremacist mob, marching in Washington, D.C., hiding their identity behind white balaclava masks, chanting their white supremacist drivel about taking America back again. Generally, this mob is white, male, and Christian, who see their economic and political “power” threatened and will do anything to hold on to those “powers.” White supremacists just don’t get it! All Americans came from somewhere else. The single thing that makes America great is the American people; the thing that makes American people great is their diversity. Mr. Lopez, the strength of America is the Gestalt of the people, government, and rule of law. This is the direction

Pears, Potatoes and Hawthorne

(Continued from Page 1B)

described it as being “decidedly of first-rate quality,” though allowing the “growth of the tree is weak.” I last hear of it in 1897, when its flesh was described as “buttery,” “melting,” and “excellent.” It was a yellow pear, though tinged with red and ripened in September and October, excellent for pies.

Another Raymond pear was the Beurre Preble, named to honor Maine’s own Commodore Edward Preble, which originated on the Raymond farm of Elijah Cook in the 1840s as the result of cross-pollination. The American Fruit Culturist magazine described it as “sweet, rich, with high flavor” in 1849, and in 1860, the Magazine of Horticulture described the Preble as being both “large” and “excellent.” It was a green pear with yellowish patches, and ripened in October and November.

Both of these pears were once grown and widely exported along the old Cumberland and Oxford Canal, reaching the markets of Portland and points south, and there were even attempts to cultivate them elsewhere with shoots and cuttings, as was done with other varietals. But despite this, neither the Raymond nor the Beurre Preble have survived to present day, dying out sometime in the early 20th century with little notice and seemingly none to mourn their passing. I, for one, wish they had been preserved, little wonder there, and I feel the need to say that if anyone around here knows of any very old pear trees rotting away in some swamp or up on an abandoned farm lot now given over to forest in either Raymond or Casco, do let me know. They might still be out there; stranger things have happened, and great work has been done to recover formerly lost apple varieties all over New England from century-old abandoned orchards just as I have described.

Next, the Potato. Though I can’t find if any unique Raymond potatoes ever existed, the people of Raymond, and indeed Bridgton and Otisfield as well, were in the early 1800s experimenting with plenty of the newfangled potato species then being bred and invented all over New England, in a great region-wide effort to perfect the modest potato and fashion a new kind perfectly suited to Maine’s soils. Here in Bridgton, George Fitch of Narramissic raised monster potatoes tipping the scales at 34 ounces, while Enoch Perley sowed his potato patch with Plaster of Paris in an experiment to increase yield — and what do you know, it worked, more than doubling his output! I love to look back on the old days of farming in the Lake Region, when every rock-ribbed, hardscrabble farm competed with Yankee thrift and a stack of agricultural periodicals a yard high, each trying to outstrip his neighbor and grow the best, the biggest, and the largest quantity of potatoes from some of the rockiest, harshest, and least cooperative soil anywhere in the country.

And in Raymond, such an experimental potato farmer was Richard Manning, uncle of Nathaniel Hawthorne, then a boy growing up on Raymond Cape in the first years of the 19th century. It is from his boyhood journal that we find our first account of Manning’s interest in potatoes, when he acquires a new “Long Red” variety from Salem and, liking its yield, passes it around amongst

his neighbors. Hawthorne writes, “Captain Britton, from Otisfield, was at uncle Richard’s today. Not long ago, uncle brought here from Salem a new kind of potatoes, called ‘Long Reds.’ Captain Britton had some for seed, and uncle asked how he liked them. He answered, ‘They yield well, grow very long; one end is very poor, and the other good for nothing.’ I laughed about it after he was gone; but uncle looked sour, and said there was no wit in his answer, and that the saying was stale. It was new to me, and his way of saying it was very funny. Perhaps uncle did not like to hear his favorite potato spoken of in that way, and that if the captain had praised it he would have been called witty.”

More of Manning’s passion for spuds appears in the writings of Charles O. Stickney, one of Bridgton’s best historical reporters who once visited Raymond in 1891, seeking interviews with the 80 and 90-year-old residents of that village who had known ‘Young Nat’ or his family, from one of which he takes the following anecdote: “I had a chat with old Uncle Leach, a kindly octogenarian of the place. But his knowledge of my hero and his personality was about as meager as Mr. Cross’s. He, however, corroborated what the latter had said as to Hawthorne’s quiet, gentlemanly manners and studiousness, and related sundry anecdotes of ‘Nat’s’ somewhat eccentric uncle, Richard Manning. One of these stories, which tickled him even more than the others, was the ‘potato scrape,’ as he termed it. ‘When any of the neighbors were over-tardy in hoeing their crops,’ said Mr. Leach, ‘it was a favorite joke of Manning’s to send some of his hired men into the piece when the owner was away and hoe it for them. But in the course of time, he somehow allowed a certain potato patch of his to get very weedy, and what did his watchful neighbors do but pay him in his own coin by secretly holding a hoeing bee in that field one bright moonlit night, and astonishing as well as engaging him next morning by this result of their magical black art!”

Right now, the Hawthorne House where Nathaniel spent his pre-college years, and where he is said to have composed the first chapter of the Scarlet Letter while canoeing about Frye’s Leap, is undergoing considerable restoration at the hands of the Hawthorne Community Association, who have already done marvelous work through the pandemic of shoring up the foundations and repairing floor joists. Anyone who owns one of “these old houses” knows problems of ongoing maintenance, and in the case of Hawthorne’s boyhood home these difficulties are especially pressing, given the wonderful history and rich cultural significance of the site. To this end, I understand on Saturday, June 3, from 5 to 7 p.m., there will be a silent-auction fundraiser to cover the ongoing expenses to repair structural issues in the roof, and also to replace siding and help renovate the interior of the hall. I’ll be there, I expect, looking to win a pair of tickets to the Titanic at the State Theater, but there’s a trove of other prizes up for consideration from boat trips on old Sebago

HAWTHORNE, Page 3B

currently under attack and God willing, the direction Independent voters will restore!

Joseph W. Angelo Bridgton Term

Limits?

To The Editor: Have you ever noticed how big government advocates justify their lust for power by using either racism (control of society) or climate change (control of economy) or both?

Racism is a buzzword used to keep us divided and at odds with each other.

Climate change is a vague theory about what will happen in the future if we don’t turn over complete control of our lives to government. In the name of fighting off a planetary disaster, government uses an unproved theory to confiscate more and more of the people’s property through taxation and regulation. Taxes and regulations are the tools that the deep state uses to whip the American people into conformity.

Unfortunately, punishing nonconformists is the only thing that government can really do well. Also unfortunate, is the bureaucracy’s inability to recognize a problem; solve the problem if they do recognize it; or admit a mistake. It just isn’t in their culture.

Given the limited ability of government to really affect the American people’s lives in a beneficial way, one has to wonder why the established political structure (primarily Democrats) is so lusting after a monolithic, all powerful, and ever-larger government. The answer is deep within the human psychic; power and control are one of mankind’s most basic instincts; and because “…absolute power corrupts absolutely” centralized, monolithic government is the means that the powerful use to oppress and bleed the people.

To coin a phrase, the rich getting richer and the poor getting poorer is on display in many State Houses and in Washington. As politicians and others in the establishment have gained longevity and power, they also have turned modest salaries into incredible wealth and incredible corruption.

Because the bigger government gets the more corrupt it becomes, it obviously isn’t the path to a better society. Term limits for politicians and government work-

ers are a good place to start to build a better society.

Jock MacGregor Sebago

‘Agita’ rebuttal

To The Editor:

Agita: Heartburn, acid indigestion, an upset stomach or, by extension, a general feeling of upset. The word is Italian-American slang derived from the Italian “agitare” meaning “to agitate.”

In his weekly BN published rambling ad hominem homilies of dangling participles in print “agita” directed toward his enemies, real or imagined, i.e. Mr. A last week, Mr. St.L (me), another, or more frequently the Reverend Plaisted, or anyone whose father or grandfather probably hadn’t voted back for Dwight D. Eisenhower, commie and FBI witch-hunter Durham, whoops… Joseph McCarthy, my apologies… Don Vose of Naples, whom I hadn’t pegged as an Italian with acid reflux, (with the exception of his usual January refrainment from the evil Dewars) prosecutes a never-ending war on anyone he deems less erudite than himself.

I do, however, subscribe to his last week’s (out of context as it may be) admonishment of Mr. A’s characterization of the United States as being a democracy and not a republic, which it hasn’t been since those Dostoevsky McCarthy and Stalin (Joseph’s both) glory years he so seems to long for once again.

Meanwhile, Bill Preis of Bridgton is afforded a forum to disseminate conspiracies about ill-gotten gains by the Trump syndicate, err… sorry… Hunter’s infidelities and heralded laptop and said bank failures attributable; and roadside digital Wizard of Oz Mark Lopez spews the same-old, same-old whilst; David Hall of Standish amusingly quotes Ronald Reagan in regards to the nothing-burger of the current GOP “debt ceiling” debacle, all the while forgetting that Democratic administrations before and after him balanced the deficits he and Nixon-Ford administrations (prior to Carter) had rung up on fossil fuels subsidies; golfing and dementia fueled “Star Wars” pipe-dreams. Come on guys, give us a break next week would ya?

Jon St. Laurent Lovell

BY THE WATER’S EDGE, a Canadian Rhododendron at Bridgton Highlands Country Club. (Photo by Jim Cossey)

War Hero made Day official

By Tom Emery Guest Columnist

Memorial Day celebrations began to spring up on local levels just after the Civil War. But, a Civil War hero from Illinois was the first to make it official.

Maj. Gen. John A. Logan, one of the great volunteer officers of the war, is credited by many as the first to declare Memorial Day an official holiday. Logan declared an official holiday as commander-in-chief of the Grand Army of the Republic, the foremost Civil War veterans’ organization, in 1868.

Though Logan was the first to establish a national remembrance, there is considerable debate on the site of the actual first Memorial Day commemoration.

“There’s a lot of controversy on that,” said Michael Jones, director of the Gen. John A. Logan Museum in Murphysboro, Ill. “There was a Memorial Day celebration in Woodlawn Cemetery in nearby Carbondale in which Logan was the keynote speaker, and I believe that played a role.”

The Carbondale celebration, on April 29, 1866, is thought by many to be the nation’s first communitywide observance. Some 212 area veterans participated in the event.

However, Jones notes a discrepancy on the inspiration for Logan’s action even within his own family. In her autobiography Reminisces of a Soldier’s Wife, Logan’s wife Mary cites her own experience at a cemetery in Petersburg, Va. in 1868.

“Mrs. Logan saw the withered flowers and flags that had been placed in honor of the Confederates buried there,” remarked Jones. “She described this to her husband and said he should do something similar, which she says was the basis for his national declaration. She never mentions the Carbondale event.”

Whatever the reason, Logan was moved to take Memorial Day a step further. On May 5, 1868, he issued General Order No. 11, designating May 30 for “the purpose of strewing with flowers or otherwise decorating the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country during the late rebellion.”

Logan’s order stated that “no form or ceremony is prescribed,” but that individuals and communities were left to their own “fitting services and testimonials…cherishing tenderly the memory of our heroic dead.”

In the first year of Logan’s declaration, an estimated 183 cemeteries hosted observances for Memorial Day, more commonly known as Decoration Day. A crowd of some 5,000, including keynote speaker and future President James A. Garfield, attended the first Memorial Day ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery that May 30. The following year, the remembrance was marked in over 336 communities in thirty-one states.

While the original order clearly applied to Northern soldiers, informal commemorations in the South became some of the earliest Memorial Day observances. Recent scholarly research also reveals a mass celebration, mostly of AfricanAmericans, in Charleston, S.C. on May 1, 1865.

There, a parade of some 10,000, including black Union infantry units, marched to a local horse track that had been converted to a prison for Union soldiers. Black workmen had re-buried at least 257 Union dead from a mass grave, inspiring the large gathering that included hymns, reading of scripture, and placing of flowers.

In 1864, women in Boalsburg, Pa. decorated the graves of their local dead soldiers, some whom had died at Gettysburg.

On April 25, 1866, just days before the Carbondale celebration, a group of ladies in Columbus, Miss. placed flowers

on the graves of Confederates who died at the battle of Shiloh. Noticing some nearby Union graves that had been neglected due to lingering animosities, they also laid some flowers to honor those soldiers.

On May 5, 1866, the town of Waterloo, N.Y. began an annual community event to commemorate war dead. A century later, President Lyndon Johnson and Congress declared Waterloo as the “birthplace” of Memorial Day.

In 1967, Congress officially named May 30 as Memorial Day, though many elderly Americans still refer to the holiday by its traditional name, Decoration Day. Four years later, the Uniform Monday Holiday Act switched the holiday to the final Monday in May. Though Memorial Day has become a three-day weekend and the kickoff to summer for thousands of communities from coast to coast, still Jones sees parallels in today’s Memorial Day celebrations and the deeper meaning of Logan’s General Order No. 11. “I think Logan’s primary purpose was his fear, which is shared by many of us,” remarked Jones, “that all of the veterans would be forgotten. He wanted to ensure that we will still honor the men who died to keep the republic.”

Tom Emery is a freelance writer and researcher from Carlinville, Ill. He may be reached at 217-710-8392 or ilcivilwar@yahoo.com.

U.S. Amnesia

(Continued from Page 1B)

That’s where dogmatists and traditionalists regularly fall down. They’re biased toward an official, approved version of the past, as taught by religious and secular authority figures. People who call themselves “conservatives” have a vested interest in ensuring that the history they hand down is the version they write. Today, we’re seeing another propaganda salvo from powerful people who’ve become rich by propagating myths and legends about the past. Authoritarian tyrants live by the calculated lie. Voltaire is alleged to have quipped, “Tradition is the lies we tell to our grandchildren.”

Those of us committed to factual history usually get the same response when we challenge the accepted mythical version of history. People committed to cherished legends erupt in unrighteous indignation. Sacred childhood fairy tales have been attacked! Eeek! Shriek!

In 2021, three Texas historians published a scholarly book, Forget the Alamo, which debunked most of the myths surrounding the Alamo’s history. Greg Abbott’s Republican government reacted angrily, and abruptly cancelled an academic symposium at the Texas State History Museum, where the authors were scheduled to introduce their research. There’s a straight line between that fiasco and the GOP’s current bookbanning assault. Good old “cancel culture” isn’t restricted to leftists.

Still, good history persists. Dr. Martin Luther King said that, “the arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice.” It also bends toward truth and away from liars. No matter how many dishonest people try to rewrite the past, it remains unchangeable. Buried within it are the roots of every problem we face in the present. If we’re too foolish to avail ourselves of the wisdom, which the past has left for us, that’s our problem. Earth and cosmos will continue, with or without us, no matter what we do. We control nothing.

Rev. Robert Plaisted is a retired United Methodist clergyman, formerly of Bridgton, now residing in Bath.

Fundraiser for Hawthorne’s boyhood home

RAYMOND — A major Silent Auction Fundraiser at Nathaniel Hawthorne’s boyhood home in Raymond, 40 Hawthorne Road, will be held on Saturday, June 3, from 5 to 7 p.m.

The funds are urgently needed to make repairs to structural deficiencies in the historic house’s roof, exterior siding, and interior walls. Support of the Silent Auction Fundraiser will help ensure that one of Maine’s most beloved literary/historical treasures will endure and thrive as a community events center, cultural icon, and point of local pride.

Among the dozens of attractive items to be auctioned at the boyhood home of the author of The Scarlet Letter will be a two-night stay at The Inn at Ocean’s Edge, Penobscot Bay; a Five-Course Meal at Migis Lodge; four Portland Sea Dogs tickets; two tickets to Titanic at the Maine State Theatre; a pontoon boat rental at Moose Landing; a handcrafted Christmas reindeer and wreath, and much more. (For winning bid

payments, personal checks preferred but credit cards graciously accepted.)

The festive Silent Auction will also feature a 50-50 raffle, a complimentary appetizer-buffet, beer, and wine. Musical entertainment will be provided by popular local artist Dana Reed, affectionately known as Capt’n Uke.

How to Support Phase II

The June 3 Silent Auction is part of the Phase II Fundraising Campaign, whose goal is to raise $75,000 for urgent repairs.

Those who cannot attend the Silent Auction — but who would still like to donate — are invited to do so by sending a muchappreciated check or online donation.

Please make checks payable to “Hawthorne Community Association,” PO Box 185, South Casco, ME 04077. Credit card, debit card, and/or Paypal donations may be made online at: https://www. hawthorneassoc.com.

For more information, please contact Abel Bates at 207-318-7131 or jbates4@maine.rr.com.

Pears, Potatoes and Hawthorne

(Continued from Page 2B)

to hotel rooms by the ocean, dinner at Migis Lodge and Sea Dog tickets; all in all it promises to be a very enjoyable evening, enriched by music, free refreshments and a 50-50 raffle, and all for the worthy cause of preserving yet another of western Maine’s cultural treasures. I hope to see you there, and in the meantime, who’s hungry for potatoes?

Till next time!

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REAL ESTATE

Chalmers Real Estate 100 Main St., Bridgton Tel. 647-3311 (TF)

Kezar Realty

Homes, Land & Vacation Rentals Lovell Village 207-925-1500 KezarRealty.com (12/23x)

Oberg Agency Residential, Business, Lake Shore Property 132 Main St., Bridgton Tel. 647-5551, 888-400-9858 (12/23x)

RUBBISH SERVICE

ABC Rubbish Weekly Pick-up Container Service Tel. 743-5417 (TF)

Worsters Rubbish Removal Trash hauling Docks

MAJ. GEN. John A. Logan. (Image from the Library of Congress)

(Image courtesy of the Hawthorne Community Association)

Area Events

Black flies? Mosquitoes?

(Continued from Page 1B)

for me is the Eastern phoebe. Not only are they one of the first insect eating birds back, they also build their nests in, occasionally inconvenient, places at people’s homes. Whether it is under the porch, in your light fixture, or right above your door (like the one outside my office) they get right to work in April, many taking advantage of the extra time to raise multiple broods over the summer.

For the past month, I have been leading bird walks at the Bob Dunning Bridge (at Pondicherry Park) here in Bridgton. Each week, we have seen more and more species show up. A few of the migratory birds we glimpsed in the last two weeks include Baltimore orioles, yellow-rumped warblers, American redstarts, chestnut-sided warblers, yellow warblers, Cape May warblers, and scarlet tanagers. This week, we observed catbirds and common grackles already feeding young in their nests.

This incredible influx of avian life creates a sense of vitality that only spring can inspire. And black flies, mosquitoes, midges, and a host of other insects, make it possible.

All lightheartedness aside, I cannot in good conscience expound on the virtues of biting insects without acknowledging the very real threat they face in other parts of the world. We are incredibly privileged to live (or visit) in a place where the vast majority of biting bugs are relatively harmless. As annoying, and sometimes painful, they can be, mosquitoes pose little risk in our colder climate.

According to the World Health Organization, about 725,000 people die each year from mosquito borne illnesses. Malaria accounts for 600,000 of those deaths, most occurring in Africa. Fortunately, this is a largely preventable disease, but the vaccine is still unavailable in many communities.

In conclusion, whether we celebrate or despise black flies in our eyes, we must always be grateful that we live in this beautiful place. Wear long sleeves, check for ticks, and don’t eat any old mushroom you see in the forest, and you should get through a walk in the Maine woods unscathed.

Mary Jewett is director of Education and Invasives Prevention at Lakes Environmental Association.

Malcolm W. Sims

NAPLES — Malcolm W.

Sims, 72, passed away peacefully in his sleep on May 16, 2023.

He was born July 21, 1950, in Doncaster, England; an only son of William and Doris Sims.

He was predeceased by both parents. He is survived by his wife of 20 years, Alfreda (Toppa)

Sims,

Children: Bridie Murphy, Kerry Murphy, Jon Green, Dorothy Giard, Kari Miselis and godson Jordan King.

He was a beloved Grampa to Jeremy Giard, Allyson Giard, Kodee King, Aiden Gillespie, Daclen Miselis, Isla Green, Liliana Miselis and Harlow Green.

He retired in 2016 from Walt Disney World, where he worked as a bus driver. Prior to Disney he was an arctic longhaul driver and a municipal bus driver in England.

Malcolm was a kind, caring man with a warm heart and a unique sense of humor. He enjoyed spending time with friends and family. Malcolm will be missed by all who knew him. He loved going on day trips to photograph Maine’s lakes, oceans and mountains. He always dreamed of one day capturing a photo of a Moose.

Words from his children: “Malcolm came into our lives and taught us many things. He set boundaries for us that helped us grow and become three strong, loving, independent people. He never told us what we wanted to hear, but he was strong enough to tell us what we needed to hear. He became a father to three children with no prior experience. I’m sure at times he wondered if he was doing it right. He did everything right. If home was a person…Malcolm was our home.”

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Malcolm’s memory to Naples Fire & Rescue: P.O. Box 1757 Naples, ME 04055.

Arrangements are in the care of the Hall Funeral Home, 165 Quaker Ridge Road, Casco, ME 04015. www.hallfuneralhome.net.

Awareness Walk draws 100+

(Continued from Page 1A)

It was obvious that the children had discussions about mental health. This had been coordinated beforehand, she said.

LRRC Executive Director Tracey Martin and Jennifer Klein were instrumental in doing the outreach to local businesses and the school. Support was positive and overwhelming, this community is amazing and it is evident in every event we pro-

pose,” Greenberg said.

The staff at Bridgton Hospital were involved. Main Eco Homes’ employees participated along with other local businesses like Norway Savings Bank and Chalmers.

“LRRC continues to be grateful for the support of our community. We stand together with our local businesses, schools, police, medical facilities and citizens to lift up those struggling with SUD and mental

Mark W. Leach

Mark W. Leach of Casco, passed away on May 11, 2023

He lived a long life of 89 years, being born in Mechanic Falls to Mark A. Leach and Jennie A. Bailey on December 6, 1933.

Mark graduated from Casco High School in 1953. He then attended Moody Bible School in Chicago. Mark and Nancy Webb were married in 1954 and enjoyed 69 years of marriage until his passing.

After practicing ministry, he went on to be a stone and brick mason alongside his father Mark and brother Cyrus. He and Cy formed Leach Bros. Masonry later on and built many “Works of Art” as they would call it. Most locals know of their work.

He enjoyed many activities throughout his long life. He took art classes from an accomplished German artist and completed many beautiful pieces, along with countless sketches. Snowmobiling, ice fishing, square dancing, blacksmithing, golf, stock car races at Oxford Plains Speedway, and writing quotes, Bible verses, and memoirs in his notebooks were among his favorites. A few of his favorite quotes, “Treat people with kindness,” “The mountains are calling – I must go,” “It is what it is,” “Don’t worry be happy,” “Not all that wander are lost.” JOHN 3:16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

Mark mostly enjoyed his family. He is predeceased by his son Damon Leach, grandson Stephen Pratt, brother Cyrus Leach, and half brother David Leach.

Survived by his wife Nancy Leach, three children, Becky King, Lori Akerson, and Joel Leach. Five grandchildren, Allison Digsby, Renee Parmelee, Amy Prescott, Maria Landry, and Jessica Frye, 10 great-grandchildren, all of whom he adored, and many relatives and friends.

His kindness towards others was unmatched by most. He was a dedicated father and included his children in his many activities. He will be missed by all who knew him. We All Love and Miss you Popsy!

A family graveyard service will be scheduled at a later date. Arrangements are in the care of the Hall Funeral Home, 165 Quaker Ridge Road, Casco. www.hallfuneralhome.net.

health,” Greenberg said. Putting the topics of mental health and mental illness in the limelight helps to remove stigmas, Greenberg said.

In the past, the societal norm was not to show emotions or talk about problems.

“The first step is putting it out in the open, so many of us hide the feelings or try to ignore them. It’s not easy to ask for help, but that is the first step towards

healing. There are so many resources available,” she said.

“We urge everyone to pay attention to how they’re feeling. Please reach out if you need help. ‘Pain shared is pain lessened,’” Greenberg said.

For help, the Maine Crisis Line is staffed 24/7, the number is 1-888-5681112. Clinically trained crisis workers will answer your call and lead you to further help.

Elizabeth E. Phillips

LEWISTON — Elizabeth

“Betty” Esther Phillips passed away on May 20, 2023, with her entire family by her side after a brief illness. She was born February 10, 1944, in Somerville, Mass., to Ruth Elizabeth Witham and Joseph Francis Murphy. Betty and her family experienced some trials but eventually moved to Bridgton to be closer to family, where they enjoyed many happy childhood memories. The Murphy children especially loved their time on the cousin Packards’ farm. In Bridgton, she bonded with her lifetime best friend, Donna B. Ruiz.

Betty graduated from Turkey Creek High School in Plant City, Florida. She saw much of the United States while raising her older children, then moved to New Hampshire where she married Terrance “Terry” Michael Phillips in 1974. Together they raised their four children in Gardiner, Maine. Betty worked in retail and then found her life purpose, as a compassionate caregiver for the elderly in her field as a PCA. Her clients were like family to Betty. After they retired, Betty and Terry moved to Bridgton where they loved being active and volunteering in community activities. She became involved in the Unitarian Universalist Church in Norway and the Bridgton Community Center.

Betty’s life was filled with loving, giving, and many special interests. She was an avid birdwatcher, gardener, bargain shopper, and artist. Betty treasured all wildlife and animals. She loved music and all of nature. Most of all, she poured her life and love into her family and friends.

Betty is survived by her devoted husband Terry, who showered her with loving care in her final years. She is also survived by brother Robert Paul Murphy, his wife Cindy Murphy, brother Kenneth Murphy, and her children: Joseph Healey and wife Sarah, Jacob Phillips and wife Michelle, Marjorie Childs and husband Wilson, daughter Margaret Hunter and husband Michael. Betty cherished her 13 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

The family wishes to thank the doctors and nurses who cared for her at Central Maine Medical Center in Lewiston. Gifts to the Bridgton Community Center would be appreciated by Betty and the family in lieu of flowers.

Her funeral service is planned for 1 p.m. on Friday, May 26, 2023, at the Chandler Funeral Home at 8 Elm Street, Bridgton, Maine. There will be a Celebration of Life at the Bridgton Community Center (open house from 2-4 p.m.). The burial service will be held on Saturday, May 27, 2023 at 10 a.m. at Mount Hope Cemetery in Augusta. Online condolences may be shared at www.chandlerfunerals.com

Obituary Policy

Always Improving

or nephews and nieces will be used. If the deceased individual’s only connection to the area is a nephew, niece or grandchild, that person will be listed by name.

E-mail to news@bridgton.com

Obituaries to run “as written” are paid obituaries, a price quote and proof will be provided. The News reserves the right to edit all obituaries including length if necessary.

E-mail to ads@bridgton.com The Bridgton News

Box 244, 118 Main St. Bridgton, ME 04009 tel. 207-647-2851 | fax 207-647-5001

Regional News

Transportation is key to access adult day services

CENTER

CONWAY,

N.H. — The Mount Washington Valley Adult Day Center (ADC) is planning to expand access to services and seeking support from the community to purchase a nine-passenger E-transit van. This is a capacity-building effort as the need has exceeded current transportation options.

“Transportation is a vital service to make our facility accessible to those that need us. Given the lack of public transportation options in the area, finding transportation can be a challenge,”

Lynn Coyle, director of the ADC, said. “For many of our guests, the available transportation options may not be a safe or accessible option. By providing transportation, we offer a friendly and familiar face for the guest and the confidence that your loved one is taken care of. There

are so many people that benefit from this service and so many more that could benefit if we had the capacity.”

For Debbie of Conway, this rings true for her. Even though she has family that lives locally, they are unable to transport her to the ADC.

“If I didn’t have the ADC picking me up, I would have no way to get here. Everyone in my family works and they cannot transport me.”

Debbie lives alone and can get very lonely. When she is home alone, she says, “All I do is sleep and I get very depressed. Coming here gives me something to look forward to. I would be crushed if I lost this place.”

The ADC first opened its doors four years ago, a few months prior to the pandemic. The services it provides are twofold: (1.) to create a safe place for individuals living with dementia and other

PUBLIC NOTICE

physical challenges to spend the day; and (2.) to provide respite for the caregivers, usually family members, from the 24/7 burden of caring for their loved one.

“Many of our participants have a very special person(s), most often either a spouse or daughter/son who cares for them 24/7 until they come seek out our services. The caregiver needs a break from

Legals

TOWN OF HARRISON

Voting Hours – Election Annual Town Meeting

Absentee ballots will be available May 15, 2023. You can call and request a ballot to be mailed to you (207-583-2241 option 1) or stop in the Town Office, 20 Front St. Our office will be open late on Thurs., June 8 from 4:30-7 p.m. for absentee voting only, last day to absentee vote.

Election Day is Tues., June 13, 2023, 8 a.m.-8 p.m. at the Town Office. Annual Town Meeting is Wed., June 14, 2023, 6 p.m. at the Harrison Elementary School, 309 Naples Rd., Harrison. Election Information is available on our website under Clerks Dept. www. harrisonmaine.org 2t21

Public Notice

TOWN OF SEBAGO

Townofsebago.org

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

The Town of Sebago Planning Board will hold the following Public Hearing on June 13, 2023 at 6 p.m. at the Sebago Town Office (406 Bridgton Road).

SITE PLAN REVIEW

Ryan and Nicholas Anderson request a Sketch Plan Review for the property located on Sebago Tax Map 07, Lot 14 (Land Lot Only – at the corner of Bridgton and Dyke Mountain Roads) for a proposed subdivision.

(The Site Plan Review Application is available for review at the Town Office during normal business hours.) 1T21

that constant care as it is very challenging on a day in, day out basis,” Debra Meader, Center program manager said. “The individuals with memory loss often are bored, sleep often or watch TV all day so our center provides socialization, engaging activities — a place they can call home away from home as we all become a big family. We strive to make the days

PUBLIC NOTICE

TOWN OF HARRISON Harrison Planning Board Site Walk

There will be a site walk conducted by the Harrison Planning Board on Thursday, June 8, 2023 at 4:30 p.m. The site walk will be in the woods on Crooked River. The board will meet INSIDE the Harrison Transfer Station gates for a Shore Land Zoning Application for Map 51 Lot 3 submitted by Schneider & Merritt. Meeting will be at 6 p.m. June 8, 2023, at the Town Office, 20 Front St., Harrison. 1T21

Public Notice

TOWN OF SEBAGO

Townofsebago.org

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

The Town of Sebago Planning Board will hold the following Public Hearing on June 13, 2023 at 6 p.m. at the Sebago Town Office (406 Bridgton Road).

SITE PLAN REVIEW

Lazy Acres LLC, Wendy Aronsson, requests a Site Plan Review for the property located on Sebago Tax Map 08, Lot 17 (Land Lot Only – Kimball Corner Road, near 93 Kimball Corner Road) for a proposed retreat and event center.

(The Site Plan Review Application is available for review at the Town Office during normal business hours.) 1T21

relaxing yet fun, engaging on so many levels and a place to make friends and meaningful relationships.”

New Hampshire has the fastest-growing population of aging individuals in the country. It is estimated that more than 300,000 people over the age of 55 will move to N.H., many to the Mount Washington Valley, within the next decade. The 85-yearplus group is the most rapidly growing population and is expected to increase by 129%. The Alzheimer’s Association projects that New Hampshire will have the most rapid increase in people with Alzheimer’s Disease of any state in the northeast in the next 10 years.

Lack of transportation presents a significant obstacle for many prospective participants and their families. The ADC serves a rural population that lacks public transportation and nonprofit alternatives. The Center currently utilizes two electric passen-

ger sedans, which can support three passengers per trip and service a limited number of routes, but they have reached their current transportation capacity. According to their most recent Guest and Family Satisfaction Surveys, transportation availability and enhanced transportation features as the most widely requested service. Their inability to provide additional transportation directly impacts their ability to enroll new participants and provide this much-needed service to families.

Their goal is to purchase the van in the Fall of 2023 so that they can offer additional support to families in need.

“We would like to thank you all in advance for your support. The Mount Washington Valley is a wonderful community, and we feel privileged to work with so many amazing families,” Coyle said.

The ADC welcomes the local community to support the purchase of the van by attending their annual golf event on Aug. 26 at the Indian Mound Golf Club located in Center Ossipee, N.H.

The Mount Washington Valley Adult Day Center is a private nonprofit 501 (c)(3) located at 987 E. Main Street in Center Conway, N.H. For additional information or to donate, call 603-356-4980 or visit: https://www.mwvadultdaycenter.org/giving/e-vanfundraiser.

Churches raise funds for Seton

FRYEBURG — In an effort to help the women served by Mother Seton House in Fryeburg, St. Maximilian Kolbe Church in Scarborough and St. Hyacinth Church in Westbrook are holding a pair of special fundraisers in the coming weeks.

In Scarborough, Knights of Columbus Council #11747 will conduct a baby bottle drive from Mother’s Day (May 14) to Father’s Day (June 18). Baby bottles will be distributed at St. Maximilian Kolbe Church,

Lake Region Safe Storage

Lake Region Safe Storage will be having an online auction for storage units #208 and #427 – Leathers; #440 – Pearson; and #402 – Carson, starting May 19, 2023 to satisfy all liens due to default of payment.

Contact Lake Region Safe Storage at 803-8497 for more information. 2T20

PUBLIC

BRIDGTON

The Bridgton Town Clerk’s Office will be open on Thursday, June 8 from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. for the purpose of accepting voter registration and other election related issues. No other town business will be conducted during this time. The Bridgton Town Clerk’s Office will be closed on Tuesday, June 13 for staff administration of the Annual Election. 1T21

Public Notice

TOWN OF NAPLES Planning Board Meeting

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

1. New Business

A. An application for a change of use to a restaurant located at 10 Lake House Road (Tax Map U25, Lot 18) 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

located on 150 Black Point Road, at weekend Masses on Saturdays at 5 p.m. and Sundays at 8 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Participants simply take a baby bottle, fill it with change or paper bills, and then return it to the narthex of the church by Father’s Day. For more information about the Scarborough event, contact Kevin at kjcurtis@ maine.rr.com.

In Westbrook, the St. Hyacinth Knights of Columbus will hold a baby bottle drive at St. Hyacinth Church, located on 268 Brown Street. Participants can pick up a baby bottle after Masses on May 20-21. Saturday Masses are at 4 p.m. and Sunday Masses are at 9:30 a.m. The full baby bottles will be collected on the weekends of June 10-11 or June 17-18 (Father’s Day Weekend). For more information about the Westbrook event, contact Ed at erielly2@earthlink.net or 207797-8746.

The Mother Seton House in Fryeburg is a non-profit home for pregnant women and new mothers in difficult circumstances. The organization offers education, counseling, and support to all women in need regardless of race or religion, providing a safe and comfortable haven for women as they prepare to give birth and nurture their newborns.

“This safe, secure environment provides women with a chance to build confidence and acquire the skills needed to break the cycle of poverty,” said Cyndi Broyer, director of Mother Seton House. “We help moms learn about cooking, nutrition, baby care, child development, budgeting, and housekeeping. Anything moms tells us they want to learn.”

The house depends on volunteers and donations for its ministry. Every dollar counts and makes a real difference.

If you are able to assist in any way or for more information about the Mother Seton House and its available services, call 207-935-1066, e-mail info@mothersetonhouse.com, or visit www. mothersetonhouse.com. You can also follow the organization on Facebook atwww. facebook.com/mothersetonhouse.

Mondays-Fridays

AA Bridgton New Day Group, 12 to 1 p.m., Lake Region Recovery Center, 2 Elm Street, 803-8707, www. lrrcbridgton.org

Walking 7:30 to 9 a.m. at the Bridgton Town Hall Gym.

Tuesdays-Wednesdays

Free Clothing. The Table continues to offer free clothing from 1 to 5 p.m. as well as the last Saturday of each month from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. There is a variety of clothing available for both genders and many sizes. The Table is located at 160 Main Street in Norway (across the road from the hospital).

Mondays

Jumpin’ Janes Senior Fitness, 9 to 10 a.m., at Bridgton Town Hall, North High Street, no charge.

Stamping Up Class at the Cancer Resource Center of Western Maine, Norway, 1 to 2:30 p.m. Space limited, masks required, materials provided. Sign up at info@ crcofwm.org

Chair Yoga (presented by Cancer Resource Center of Western Maine) at Bridgton Community Center with Susan Kane from 10 to 11 a.m. Open to public ($10), free to cancer patients and their caregivers. No registration required.

Jigsaw Puzzle Library, North Waterford Church (Route 35), the lending library is open every Monday from 1 to 3 p.m. All are welcome.

Bridgton Community Band rehearsals (except Memorial Day) until Aug. 14, 7 p.m. at Stevens Brook Elementary School in Bridgton. All instrument players are welcome to participate, regardless of age or ability.

Tuesdays

Open Pickleball Play from 9 a.m. to noon Sebago

Weekly Schedule

Rec. Adult players of all skill levels welcome. For more information, go to www. townofsebago.org/recreation Harrison Food Bank, 12 to 6 p.m., located at the Harrison Food Bank, Ronald G. St. John Community Center located at 176 Waterford Road in Harrison.

Telephone: 207-647-3384.

Bridgton Food Pantry, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., former Methodist Church building, Main Street.

Naples Food Pantry, 10 to 11:30 a.m., located at the Naples United Methodist Chuck; open to Naples residents, distribution is drivethru.

Tai Chi Maine Set Practice at the Bridgton Town Hall (North High Street) at 10 a.m. For more information, go to the Tai Chi Maine website or e-mail Taichiinmaine@gmail.com.

A new beginner instruction takes place at 9:30 a.m.

Jeannette’s Closet, 9 to 11 a.m., free clothing, First Congregational Church, South High Street, Bridgton.

Caregiver Support Group, 1 to 2:30 p.m., MWV Adult Day Center, 987 East Main Street, Center Conway, N.H. This support group offers education, support and coping skills for caregivers of those with Alzheimer’s or Related Disorders. Prearranged car is available for the family member while the caregiver attends the meeting. For more information, call 603-356-4980 or online at mwvadultdaycenter.org.

Wednesdays

Storytime at the Denmark Public Library at 9:30 a.m. For more information, contact Librarian Robin Gosbee at 452-2200.

Jumpin’ Janes Senior Fitness, 9 to 10 a.m., at Bridgton Town Hall, North High Street, no charge. Morning Coffee, 9 to

11 a.m., American Legion Post 67, 25 Depot Street, Bridgton. Stop by and have a coffee on us, and see what has been happening with the American Legion. All are welcome!

Thrift Shop at the Lovell United Church of Christ (1174 Main Street), open 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; $2 bag sale on the last Wednesday and Saturday of each month.

Family Caregiver Support Group, second Wednesday of each month, 1 to 2:30 p.m., Bridgton Community Center (15 Depot Street), confidentiality respected, sponsored by Southern Maine Agency on Aging; tel. 647-3116.

Sweden Food Pantry, open the first and third Wednesday of the month, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Shoppers must wear a mask. For a To-Go box, call 647-5735 the Monday before pantry. The pantry is in the basement of the Sweden Community Church, 137 Bridgton Road, near Sweden’s Four Corners (intersection of Route 93 and Waterford Road).

Alateen Meeting from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., PVHI Outreach/Legion Hall, 47 Bradley Street, Fryeburg. For more information, chris. whitaker@pvhi.org or call 207-332-7735.

Wednesdays and Saturdays

Thrift Shop, Lovell United Church of Christ, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Wednesdays and Thursdays

Fryeburg Historical Society Osgood House Museum , located at 83 Portland Street in Fryeburg, is open for tours from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more information e-mail the Historical Society at info@ fryeburghistorical.org or visit the webpage at fryeburghistorical.org

Thursdays Open Pickleball Play from 9 a.m. to noon Sebago Rec. Adult players of all skill levels welcome. For more information, go to www. townofsebago.org/recreation

Tai Chi Maine Set Practice at the Bridgton Town Hall on North High Street at 10 a.m. A new beginner instruction takes place at 9:30 a.m. For more information, go to the Tai Chi Maine website or e-mail Taichiinmaine@gmail.com

NA (Narcotics Anonymous), 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., in-person and Zoom (https://us02web.zoom. us/j/83060135164 meeting number ID 830 6013 5164), Lake Region Recovery Center, 2 Elm Street, Bridgton tel. (207) 8038714, www.lrrcbridgton.org

Parkinson’s Support Group presented by Stephens Memorial Hospital in Norway, 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. at the Churchill Conference Room at the Bob and Sandy Bahre Health Center (159 Main Street, Norway). For more information, call the SMH Physical Rehabilitation Department at 207-7446160.

Women for Sobriety, 3 p.m., Lake Region Recovery Center, 2 Elm Street, Bridgton.

Free Narcan Training third Thursday of each month, 10 to 11 a.m. by Lake Region Recovery Center. Zoom at https://us02web. zoom.us/86337728738. Meeting ID: 86337728738 (You can use our computers to do this, or at home). Trail Runs. Every Thursday, May to September, 5:30 p.m., Greater Lovell Land Trust, Lovell Rec, and Upper Saco Valley Land Trust will co-host Roots & Rocks Ramblers Fun Trail Runs. Check gllt.org to register for e-mail announce-

Student Citizens of the Month

(Continued from Page 7B)

Olivia enjoys sports. She is captain of the volleyball team and has received two Laker Pride awards. During the summer, she volunteers and works as a lifeguard.

Olivia wants to study marine biology and business in college.

May COM: Alecssander

Freitas (Naples) Alecssander is the senior class leader of the Law Enforcement Program at LRVC. He was a delegate in the 2022 session of the American Legion Dirigo State and went on to represent Maine at the 2022 Boys’ Nation Senate in Washington, D.C. This

This week’s puzzle theme: OutdOOr Fun

ACROSS

1. Bryan of “Summer Of ‘69” fame

6. Lake in Provence 9. ____ ____ good example

13. Hypotenuse/opposite side

14. Fuss, to Shakespeare

15. Pine

16. Filthy dough

17. Marxism or Taoism, e.g.

18. Skylit lobbies

19. *Outdoor repast

21. *Two-wheeling

23. Agreement word 24. *Climbing turf 25. “I wish I ____, I wish I might...”

28. Cracked by yegg

30. Cowardly color

35. Slightly (2 words)

37. Matterhorn location

39. Charles III’s ex

40. She played Carla on “Cheers” 41. Nev.’s neighbor 43. Rotisserie skewer 44. Indianapolis team 46. Underwater “nose” 47. Color of a bruise 48. Trying experience 50. “The Breakfast ____” 52. p in mph 53. Ranee’s husband

____ de plume

57. *Gather berries, e.g.

60. *Water slaloming

63. Soft single in baseball

64. *Sun “kiss”

66. Beau’s and Jeff’s acting dad

68. Cut-down sailing sheep

69. How many “if by sea?”

70. Have effect

71. Gibbons, e.g.

72. Coniferous

experience inspired him to become a serious student of government and the political process. Alecssander hopes to become a U.S. senator so that he can work to improve our country. For more information

about Bridgton-Lake Region Rotary Club, visit its webpage at https://lakeregionrotary.com or its Facebook Page. For specific questions, contact Club President Hagan at Lakeregionrotary@ gmail.com.

ments of weekly locations.

Harrison Maine Climate Action Group meetings held the 2nd and 4th Thursdays at 7 p.m. This is a non-partisan group. Please e-mail Andrea at: harrisonmaineclimateaction@gmail.com for in-person address or a Zoom link.

Lovell Area Food Pantry, open the second and fourth Thursdays of each month, 10 a.m. to noon, at the Lovell Lions Club, 2081 Main Street, (North) Lovell. E-mail: Lovellareafoodpantry@ gmail.com or call (207) 5427239.

Fridays

Jumpin’ Janes Senior Fitness, 9 to 10 a.m., at Bridgton Town Hall, North High Street, no charge.

Coffee Café at the Waterford Library, 10 a.m. to noon, a weekly gathering with your friends and neighbors.

Denmark Library Coffee Café every Friday, 9 to 11 a.m., Denmark Public Library 121 E. Main St, Denmark, (207) 452-2200

Chair Yoga (presented by Cancer Resource Center of Western Maine) at Bridgton Community Center with Susan Kane from 9 to 10 a.m. Open to public ($10), free to cancer patients and their caregivers. No registration required.

Saturdays Free Breakfast. The Table is excited for the return of in-person breakfasts with the option of pickup to go meals at 9 a.m. at the Norway Grange on Whitman Street in Norway. The Table is always interested in other teams who would like to take a Saturday and serve breakfast. The inperson breakfast has been a great way to combat food insecurity as well as fulfilling a social need for many in the area.

Sebago Yoga classes on Saturday mornings at the Sebago Town Hall gym. Sign up at www.sebagoyoga.com.

Thrift Shop at the Lovell United Church of Christ (1174 Main Street), open 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; $2 bag sale on the last Wednesday and Saturday of each month.

All About Books, third Saturdays at the Waterford Library at 11a.m. All About Books offers Maine authors a platform to talk about their writing process, evolving journey, and their books. Recent challenges have made these conversations especially poignant. Program to be held at the library. All welcome. Free. Zoom attendance available upon request.

Cornerstone Gospel Church men’s breakfast, the third Saturday of each month, 7:30 to 9 a.m., Tel. 693-6102 or e-mail pastorjimmarstaller@yahoo.com Sundays Church Service at the North Waterford Church will now be held in person, at 10 a.m. on Sundays. All are welcome!

Ping Pong at the Bridgton Town Hall from 1 to 4 p.m. All welcome. Equipment provided free! 4 tables! FMI 647-2847.

St. Peter’s Episcopal Church Sunday Service, 42 Sweden Road, Bridgton, 10 a.m. All are welcome! Grief Support meeting, 11:30 a.m., through September. Be with others who understand. For more information, call (207) 3100576.

Open Pickleball Play from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Sebago Rec. Adult players of all skill levels welcome. For more information, go to www.townofsebago.org/ recreation

Country Living

Rotary Honors Student Citizens of the Month

The Bridgton-Lake Region Rotary Club honored nine Citizens of the Month (COM) from Lake Region High School (LRHS) at a celebratory breakfast at the Bridgton Community Center on Friday, May 19. Each senior COM received a certificate, a gift card and information about Rotary. Accompanied by parents and guardians, the eight who were able to attend, each spoke briefly and enjoyed a delicious meal.

The Citizen of the Month award is presented to high school seniors who have provided service in the community reflective of Rotary’s Motto: Service Above Self. Club President Aaron Hagan introduced each student and presented the awards. Several of the COMs had participated in Dirigo State, a week-long program offered by the American Legion to teach high school students how our state government works and to give them experience in debating issues, running for office, and setting up a model government.

September COM : Elizabeth O’Leary (South Casco)

Elizabeth moved here from Massachusetts in her freshman year. She is interested in psychology and has taken dual-enrollment college courses in psychology. She is considering a career as a guidance counselor, a social worker, or a forensic psychologist. Elizabeth also enjoys writing poetry.

October COM: Emily Rock (Bridgton)

Emily enjoys sports and has been captain of her soccer and softball teams. She has volunteered at the Bridgton Rec Summer Camp and is head coach of the 3rd/4thgrade girls’ soccer team. This experience has helped her learn how to teach children, a skill she will put to good use when she becomes either a teacher or a coach. She also has had hands-on experience in governance. She was part of the LRHS DEI (diversity, equity and inclusion) committee and was voted into the Senate in her week at Dirigo State.

November COM: Kyan

Breakfasts & Suppers

Memorial Day Breakfast

HARRISON — A Memorial Day Weekend

Church Breakfast will be held at the United Parish Congregational Church of Harrison and North Bridgton on Saturday, May 27. Hours are 7:30 to 9:30 a.m.

The buffet-style breakfast includes scrambled eggs, pancakes, sausage, fresh fruit, homemade coffee cake, muffins, coffee, tea, and juice. No set price, donations are most welcome.

The church is located at 77 Main Street in Harrison, across from Crystal Lake Park.

Sweden BBQ dinner

SWEDEN — The Sweden Volunteer Fire Association will hold its annual barbecue dinner on Saturday, June 3 at the Sweden Meeting House, 147 Bridgton Road, in Sweden from 5 to 7 p.m.

The menu includes barbecue chicken and pork, potato salad, tossed salad, baked beans, mac and cheese, coleslaw, bread, watermelon, cookies, coffee and water. Cost is $12 for adults, $5 for children ages 6-12, and free for children ages 5 and younger.

Legion Pancake Breakfast

The American Legion Post 67 in Bridgton will host a pancake breakfast on Saturday, June 3 from 8 to 11 a.m. at the Bridgton Community Center (15 Depot Street). The breakfast includes pancakes, sausage, coffee, and juice. Proceeds support local veterans, children/youth, and community programs. The suggested donation is $8.

Post Roast Supper

RAYMOND — The Raymond Village Community Church Pot Roast Supper will be held on Saturday, June 10. The menu includes: Pot roast and gravy, potatoes, green beans, carrots, a roll, and a brownie for $12. Meals are take-out only.

New this year — outside picnic-style seating will be available. Supper workers are taking orders for meals for pick up between 5 and 6 p.m. that Saturday at 27 Main Street in Raymond. They will be hot and ready! Please order in advance as it is unlikely that extra meals will be available. To order your meals, please call the office at 655-7749 before noon on June 10 and leave a message with your name, number of meals and time you will pick up. Or if you prefer, you can send an e-mail to office@ rvccme.org with the information.

Macdonald (Bridgton)

Kyan has demonstrated a real commitment to making positive changes in his community. With the help of his parents, he founded Team Kyan, a nonprofit that financially supports those impacted by childhood cancer. He also helped create the Student Summit at LRHS as a means for students to have their voices heard. Finally, Kyan was a delegate at Dirigo State and got first-hand experience with the process of government.

December COM: Sydney Mushrow (Bridgton)

Sydney is active in concert band, jazz band, choir, and theater. She enjoys helping younger kids and volunteers in the Stevens Brook library and before COVID at

the Bridgton Public Library. She plans to study business management and fashion design in preparation to her opening her own bridal shop. She wants to help every bride find her dream dress.

January COM: Jack Bueler (Bridgton) Jack comes from a big family of eight children. He volunteers at the Bridgton Rec Program coaching basketball and helping with Halloween festivities. He hopes to become a therapist so he can help people work through their problems.

February COM: Ryan Philbrook (Bridgton) Ryan volunteers at the Magic Lantern Innovation Lab and Learning Center helping kids with their projects. He plans to earn a mas-

Blood Drives

American Red Cross blood drives will be held:

• Harrison, Wednesday, May 31 from 1 to 5:30 p.m. at the United Parish Congregational Church of Harrison and North Bridgton, 77 Main Street.

• Windham, Wednesday, May 31, from 12 to 5 p.m., North Windham Veterans Center, 35 Veterans Memorial Drive.

• Denmark, Wednesday, May 31 from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Denmark Town Hall, 62 East Main Street.

• Norway, Tuesday, June 13 from 12 to 5 p.m., Stephens Memorial Hospital, Ripley Medical Building, 193 Main Street.

The American Red Cross asks people to book a time to give blood or platelets now to address a recent drop in donation appointments that could lead to fewer transfusions for patients in the weeks ahead. Type O blood donors are especially needed to ensure a strong blood supply.

The start of summer can shake up normal routines, but it’s important for donation appointments to stay on the calendar — especially as Memorial Day weekend approaches. More than 42 million Americans are expected to travel over

the holiday, meaning fewer donors may be available to give.

Appointments are critical this week for people waiting for lifesaving care. Download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800733-2767) to schedule a time to give now. All who come to give through May 31 will receive an exclusive Red Cross beach towel, while supplies last. Donors in May will also be automatically entered for a chance to win a trip for two to the 2023 MLB® All-Star Game® in Seattle, including two tickets to the game thanks to the support of Fanatics, roundtrip airfare, four-night hotel accommodations, a $750 gift card and more.

Those who come to give June 1-30 will receive a $10 gift card by email to a merchant of their choice. Plus, they’ll also be automatically entered for a chance to win a backyard theater package including a projector and screen, projector tripod, smokeless firepit, Adirondack chair set and a movie night snack package.

ter’s degree in automotive engineering and work for a large automotive company.

March COM: Tristan Cormier (Bridgton)

Tristan is active in crosscountry, and track and field.

He has been active in Boy Scouts and recently became a Scout Master. He participated in Dirigo State.

Chair raffle for Casco Library

CASCO — The Casco Inn RCF is holding a cedar Adirondack chair raffle. Tickets are available to buy at the Casco Inn RCF Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., or at the Casco Public Library.

Tickets are $1 per ticket or $5 for six tickets. Tickets can be purchased now through June 29. The drawing will be held on June 30.

Casco Inn RCF (434 Roosevelt Trail in Casco) is also offering a lemonade stand drive-through on Friday, June 2 from 1:30 to 3 p.m. with a rain date of June 9, same times. No charge for lemonade but a donation is appreciated. All money raised will benefit the Casco Public Library. Cash or checks can be taken. Checks should be made out to Casco Public Library.

April COM: Olivia Pearson (Bridgton)

CONGRATULATED — Rotary Club’s Citizen of the Month honorees (left to right) Ryan Philbrook, Tristan Cormier, Jack Bueler, Kyan Macdonald, Alecssander Freitas, Sydney Mushrow, Olivia Pearson, Emily Rock and Rotary Club President Aaron Hagan. Elizabeth O’Leary was absent.

THE CASCO INN RCF is raffling this Adirondack Chair to benefit the Casco Pubic Library.

CITIZENS, Page 6B

Children’s ‘Wizarding’ Vacation Bible Camp

Every kid loves a magical adventure and this year’s Vacation Bible Camp at the First Congregational Church of Bridgton-UCC is titled, “A Wizarding week at VBC,” where we will introduce kids to the importance of friendship, peace, love and joy as we have fun singing, crafting, and playing outside.

The weekday, mornings-only camp runs from Monday, June 19 to Friday, June 23 on the grounds of the church located at 33 South High Street. Pre-registration is required. The camp is free to children ages 4 through 10. Please pre-register by June 5.

“Kids will learn about how to make and keep lifelong

BN 21 ATTENTION

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

HELP WANTED

MSAD72 — (EOE) Fryeburg, Maine is hiring: mechanic/groundskeeper; school secretary; administrative assistant to transportation and facilities; bus drivers. Visit www.msad72.org for a complete listing of open positions and an application, call 207-935-2600 or pick up an application today.

MSAD 72, 25 Molly Ockett Drive, Fryeburg, ME tf21

CLEANING STAFF Part-

Time Needed. Camp Encore/Coda is hiring part-time Cleaning Staff for summer season. Flexible hours. Call 207-647-3947 or https://encorecoda.com/best-summer-campmusic-jobs/ to apply. 4t21

SEASONAL HELP WANTED at Wyonegonic Camps in Den-

mark: 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. 3t19

FUTURE LEADERS WANTED

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

friends, as they explore Bible stories and how to use peace, love and joy to make our world a safe place for all,” said Sandy Wissmann, coordinator of the Vacation Bible Camp and the church’s Christian Education Coordinator. “We expect another great turnout this year and look forward to having you join us.” Vacation Bible Camp starts at 9 a.m. and ends at noon each day. Registration is limited, so please visit the website at www.fccbridgton.org/upcoming-events/ to register your children.

Contact the church office at 647-3936 for more information.

Classified Advertising

BRIDGTON Screened loam for sale. $20 yard. Large granite stone. Call 647-5963. 4t21x

PERENNIAL PLANT SALE June 3, 7 a.m.-3 p.m. Rain or shine, bring box. Unbelievable private collection of plants gathered over 52 years. 19 Shavings Hill Rd., Limington. 637-2675. 2t21x

CUSTOM MADE — Board and batten doors. Multiple styles and designs. Indoor, outdoor, stained or clear finish, closets, room dividers, etc. 207-595-4606, call or text.

12t10x

$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

LOOKING FOR — houses or camps to paint for 2023 season. Free estimates. 35 years experience. Dirigo Custom Painting. 7439889 18t18x

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

Summer Help Wanted

Camp Tapawingo in Sweden is hiring full-time and part-time workers! Flexible schedule can accommodate school work days. 20-40 hours per week. Compensation commensurate with experience. E-mail meg@camptapawingo.com or call 207-647-3351.

Early June - Late August

Office Staff Cook 3T21CD

TOWN OF SEBAGO

406 Bridgton Rd., Sebago ME 04029 (207) 787-2457 • Townofsebago.org

SEASONAL BEACH ATTENDANTS/ BOAT INSPECTORS

Do you like to spend time at the beach? Would you like to be paid while being there? The Town of Sebago is accepting applications for part-time Beach Attendants/ Boat Inspectors. These positions are for approximately 15-20 hours per week from Memorial Day to Labor Day with reduced hours of coverage until Indigenous Peoples Day. Normal working hours will be 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., but the schedule may vary depending on weather and need. General duties will include greeting people, enforcing the town’s beach ordinance and cleaning the beach and parking areas. In addition, the attendant will perform courtesy boat inspections for milfoil. The ideal candidates should possess the following traits: dependability, flexibility, communications and data entry skills.

For information and/or applications contact: Leslie Hayes, Recreation Director, 207-595-4018 or recdirector@ townofsebago.org. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until suitable candidates are found.

The Town of Sebago is an Equal Opportunity Employer. 1T21CD

HONEST AND PROFESSIONAL

— Various home repair and handyman services including painting, deck staining, rotted wood repair, bath/kitchen updates, plumbing repairs, flooring, roof/siding washing, soft and pressure methods, dock repairs and more! Insured. Brian, cell 865-415-8419; 603452-8772 homefit04@gmail.com 5t21x

KIMBALL PROPERTY MAIN-

TENANCE — Spring cleanup. Brush cutting and removal, trucking of aggregates, loam, bark hauling and more. Fully insured Call 207-595-8321 or 207-5838010. 4t18x

DENMARK HOUSE PAINTING

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

IF YOU NEED ANYTHING — hauled off, my trailer is 7x18. Call Chuck’s Maintenance 743-9889. 32t18x

DK PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

— Property watch/caretaking. Mowing, trimming, tree/brush removal. Debris removal, spring/fall clean-ups. Driveway repair, gravel, stone loam, mulch and rototilling. Dan Knapp 207-713-0779 Bridgton. 21t15x

Church Yard Sale May 27

The First Congregational Church of Bridgton, famous for its massive annual Yard Sale in July, is holding a smaller one with more exclusive items for sale on Saturday, May 27 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The sale will be held rain or shine in the Red Barn at 426 Highland Road in Bridgton.

Some of the higher-end items available for sale are Char-Broil commercial grade stainless steel outdoor grill; a like-new, high-BTU output, window AC unit; an outdoor porch swing; new, in box outdoor canopies; couches; and a smorgasbord of unique/interesting items.

BROKEN GUITAR? — Call Alex! 603-327-8159. EdneyGuitars.com, EdneyGuitars@gmail. com 12t12x

WANTED

RETIRED PROFESSOR seeks temporary, preferably longterm housing beginning June 1st or July 1st in quiet Bridgton/Waterford/Harrison area. Non-smoker. Have older cat. Please contact Paul at 207-393-0411. 1t21x

YARD SALES

GARAGE SALE — FridayMonday, May 26, 27, 28, 29. 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Rain or shine. 180 Harmons Beach Rd., Standish. 1t21x

PREMIUM

PREMIUM

YARD/STORAGE SALE — Brag Way, Bridgton. Older farmhouse, Shaker, East Lake furniture, lamps, beds, Oriental rugs. Sat., Sun., May 27 and 28. 8 a.m. Follow signs. 1t21x

DOWNSIZING — for retirement yard sale. Saturday, May 27, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. 5 Crooked River Pines, Harrison. From the Norway/ Harrison Rd. take Plains Rd. to Ryefield Bridge Rd., left on Crooked River Pines. 1t21x

ESTATE SALE — Fri. and Sat., May 26 and 27, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Tools, furniture. Everything must go. 158 Gore Rd., Naples. 1t21x YARD SALE — Sat., May 27 - Sun., May 28, 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Furniture, clothing, tools, housewares, books, and other odds & ends. 514 Hio Ridge Road. 1t21x

Hamburgers, hot dogs and cold drinks will be available for sale! Yard sale proceeds support the church’s operational and outreach programs, which benefit local residents who are in need.

The First Congregational Church of Bridgton, United Church of Christ is an Open and Affirming church, and all people are welcome. It is located at 33 South High Street, Bridgton. The pastor is Rev. Emily C. Goodnow. Sunday services are held at 10 a.m. in both the church and via Facebook Live. For more information call the church office at 207-6473936 or visit www.bridgtonucc.com.

LOOKING FOR AN ACCOMPANIST!

At the Casco Village Church UCC, we are looking for an Accompanist! We have both a grand piano and a Protégé Organ by Allen. Organ not required. We are a very music-oriented church and have a wonderful choir with a few good singers right now with the hope that our choir will continue. So it is a great possibility, if you are so inclined, that this may turn into a position of Director/Accompanist. Services are live and live-streamed, and we are rehearsing on Sundays at 9 a.m. for our Worship Service which is at 10 a.m. At some time in the future, Choir Rehearsals may resume on Wednesdays at 7 p.m.

Accompanist for Sunday Service & Choir $150

If you are interested in the position or have any questions about it, please contact either Pastor Joyce Long or Office Manager Storm Field, at Casco Village Church PO Box 367, Casco ME 04015 627-4282

OR by e-mail, CVCUCC@gmail.com

Pianist performs at LHE/PAC

FRYEBURG — Miami-based pianist, recording artist, and producer, Mike Levine, brings his Latin-influenced compositions to the intimate setting of the Bradley Backstage series at the Leura Hill Eastman Performing Arts Center on Thursday, June 1 at 7 p.m.

His band also features Latin Grammy winner and Sabian Cymbals artist, Richard Bravo (Latin percussion), Miami-based percussionist, Sam Levine, saxophonist, Mike Sakash, bassist, Al Hospers, and guitarist, Jarrod Taylor.

Based in the Sunshine State, jazz pianist Mike Levine

has developed a reputation as a solid player, producer and composer on the Miami scene. With a career that stretches back to the early 80s, the University of Miami alumnus made his record debut in 1981 as co-leader of The Ross-Levine Band, a project upon which Pat Metheny was a guest artist. The effort drew national attention and remained in the top ten of the AC-Jazz Chart for six weeks. The subsequent effort also fared well and paved the band’s way as an opening act for such highly regarded performers as Michael Franks, Gato Barbieri and Dionne Warwick.

In the times since, Levine has enjoyed a variety of gigs and recordings with Mel Torme, The Jaco Pastorius Big Band, Ed Calle, Michael Bolton, Les DeMerle, David Sanborn, Roberto Perrera, Billy Ross, Greg Abate and John Secada to touring in Mexico, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic and Canada. His festival appearances have been several, the Montreal, Detroit, Syracuse, Aruba, Amelia Island, Panama City and Berks Jazz Festivals.

Bradley Backstage tickets are $20 for adults and $5 for students. Purchase tickets online at www.fryeburgacademy.org/pac, or call the box office at 207-544-9066. Seating is limited.

The LHE/PAC is located at 18 Bradley Street in Fryeburg, on the campus of Fryeburg Academy.

MIKE LEVINE brings his Latin-influenced compositions to the intimate setting of the Bradley Backstage series on Thursday, June 1 at 7 p.m.

Bridgton Farmers’ Market Recipe

Curried Parship Soup

By Nancy Tripp

Bridgton Farmers’ Market

Spring in Maine, as we have seen in the past few weeks, can be unpredictable. I’m thinking of the snowflakes I saw last week. That was the day a pot of warmly spiced soup appealed to me and I dove right into seeing what was available to “soup up.”

Parsnips. It was parsnips. Freshly pulled from the ground after overwintering, sweet parsnips are delicious raw, roasted or stewed. Almost anything you can dream of doing to a parsnip will be delicious.

If you are going to eat them raw or lightly cooked, you will want to check the larger roots and trim out the tough core. This is easily done by quartering them lengthwise and simply trimming out the center that is obviously different from the outer portion of the root. If you are going to boil the parsnip in a soup or stew or to mash, the longer cooking time will soften the tough center and this process is unnecessary.

This may be one of the simplest, most tasty soups I have ever made. On a cool, rainy spring day a bowl of this curried soup will warm you up to the tips of your toes. Check it out.

Curried Parsnip Soup

from Vegetables Every Day by Jack Bishop serves 8 as a first course.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1 medium onion diced

1 tablespoon fresh ginger root minced

2 medium garlic cloves

minced

1 ½ teaspoons curry powder

2 pounds parsnips, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks

6 ½ cups chicken or vegetable stock

Salt

2 tablespoons minced fresh cilantro leaves (optional)

1 cup plain yogurt

Directions

Heat the oil in a soup

pot. Add the onion and sauté over medium heat until golden, about 6 minutes. Add the ginger, garlic and curry powder and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Add the parsnips, stock and salt to taste. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat and simmer until the parsnips are very tender, about 35 minutes.

Puree the soup, in batches, in a blender. Stir in the cilantro and adjust the seasonings. Ladle into individual bowls. Float a dollop of yogurt in each bowl and serve immediately.

The Market Find us on The Green behind Renys on Depot Street every Saturday from 8 a.m. to Noon. For a full list of vendors and information on ordering or to sign up for the Bridgton Farmers’ Market weekly newsletter visit https://www. facebook.com/BridgtonFarmersMarket/ or contact BFM at bridgtonfarmersmarket.me@gmail.com

BFM is now offering a Community Tent to local organizations. Contact BFM at our e-mail listed above for more information on how to reserve a date.

If you bring your dog, please maintain a short leash and control over your animal. Thank you!

BFM accepts credit cards and EBT. See you there!

MOLLYOCKETT CHORUS MEMBERS — Front row, left to right, Cheryl Barker, Jan Ward, Nancy Sosman, Merry Childs, Nancy McNulty and Janet Coverdale; back row, Susan Leunig, Joan Ehrler, Deb Nichols and Jolan Ippolito. Missing from photo: Debbie Luxton, Jenn Snell and Ellen Ward.

Summer Concert

WATERFORD — The Mollyockett Chorus will open the summer concert series at the Bear Mountain Music Hall in Waterford on Thursday evening, June 1 at 7 p.m.

The Chorus, under the direction of Simon Smith of Bethel, sings lively popular music, mostly from early to mid-20th century, in the barbershop style. It is comprised of women singers from all over the Lake Region, including Bethel, Casco, Bridgton, Sebago,

Raymond, Rumford, Windham, Bryant Pond, Auburn, Norway, Oxford, Hebron, and Stoneham.

The Mollyockett Chorus was organized in 1996 and is a chapter of Harmony Inc., an international women’s barbershop organization.

New women singers are always welcome at the chorus. Rehearsals are on Tuesday evenings at 6:30 p.m. downstairs in the First Unitarian Universalist

BIG TURNOUT FOR KETTLE DINNER — This pride of Bridgton Lions served a delicious chicken marsala for the Kettle Dinner on May 18. Pictured left to right, Kent Shalline, Carmen Lone, Marianne Maliga, Brook Sulloway, Ruth Shalline and Ron Maliga are pictured preparing dinner. At 5 p.m., the Bridgton Community Center dining room was nearly full and an estimated 62 Bridgton residents were served in house; another 36 meals were taken out. No leftovers. The Lions excel.

Spring Recital

Ellen Schwindt presents a student recital featuring advancing students tonight, Thursday, May 25 at 7 p.m. The concert showcases students’ musical accomplishments of the 2022-2023 school year. The concert takes place at The Little White Church in Eaton (2371 Eaton Road), N.H.

The eldest of the student performers have been studying music for 11-12 years; they are seasoned pianists and violinists and have prepared complex classical pieces. Other performers are a few years into their studies and have crafted their pieces carefully. Musical selections on the program range from Henry Mancini’s theme from The Pink Panther, played with audience participation in the percussion section, to

RECITAL, Page 10B

CONCERT, Page 10B

Hikers finally hit the Bluff

Every month, the Denmark Mountain Hikers try to include either a new hike we’ve never done before, or a new trail on a mountain that we’ve never hiked. We have hiked into Mr. Lowe’s Bald Spot from the Pinkham Notch Visitor’s Center on the Old Jackson Road trail, but never to the Bluff on the Great Gulf Wilderness Trail.

The AMC White Mountain Guide describes the Bluff as a “high gravelly bank…where there is a good view of the gulf and the mountains around it.” The trail from the parking lot on Route 16 to the Bluff follows an old woods road, cross country ski trails, and enters the Great Gulf Wilderness Area at 1.6 miles from the trailhead.

I had postponed this hike three times because of the very deep snows on the trail. On one trip to visit the trailhead, I found snowbanks taller than my car and no signs that anyone had broken trail. Although our hikers are not adverse to snowshoeing and breaking trail, this was a bit much to ask, so we postponed the hike into the Great Gulf Wilderness until later in the spring when snow levels were more manageable. We settled on May 12 and found all the snow on the trail and in the woods was gone — melted into a gushing Peabody River that the trail follows for much of the way to the Bluff.

There is a very impressive suspension foot bridge over the Peabody River, and after crossing the bridge the trail follows on the north bank of the river much of the way to

the Bluff. The last roughly half-mile is steeper and rockier going, but the trail before then is mostly broader and gentler. The Peabody River was fulling full-out from recent rains and snowmelts, and its roar was a constant companion to much of the hike.

Hiking on this picture-perfect day were 14 Denmark Mountain Hikers. It was misting with light rain at the Denmark Church, and a little heavier going through North Conway, enough to turn the wipers on, but when we got to the trailhead the rain had stopped and the sun came out to brighten our hike. Temperature was 51 degrees at the trail-

Calendar of Events

Friday, May 26

Fundraiser for Lake Region Project Graduation, spaghetti dinner and raffle, 5 to 7 p.m., Sebago Town Hall. Cost: $10 for adults, $8 for seniors and kids, $25 family of four rate. Cash, check and Venmo. Drive-through option, text 207-749-8279.

Saturday, May 27

Spring Bird Walk at the Ten-mile River Demonstration Forest, located on the Hiram/Brownfield town line from 7 to 9 a.m. This event is free, but participants are asked to please register by visiting the website at oxfordcountyswcd.org/ workshops. The registration deadline is Friday, May 26.

Annual Spring Sale. St. Joseph Women’s Guild is having their Annual Spring Sale from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., in the St. Joseph Church Hall, South High Street, Bridgton. There will be a variety of plants, (great for Spring planting), delicious baked goods, gently used clothing for all ages in the Boutique Section and special finds in the White Elephant display.

Book, Bake, and Plant Sale from 9 a.m. to 1p.m. at Spaulding Memorial Library, 282 Sebago Road (Route 114), Sebago. Support the library and stock up on books, audiobooks, and DVDs sold at extremely reasonable prices. Delicious

home-baked goodies as well as vegetable and flower seedlings and plants for sale. FMI 787-2321.

Plant and Pie Sale. Denmark Public Library Annual Plant and Pie Sale, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Perennials, annuals, homemade pies, brown bag raffle, books, music. Donations welcome! 207-452-2200, 121 East Main Street, Denmark.

Book, Bake & Plant Sale at Charlotte Hobbs Memorial Library in Lovell, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Breakfast for Dinner, Casco Village Church, United Church of Christ from 4:30 to 6 p.m. This dinner will feature eggs, homefries, pancakes, French toast, bacon, quiche, breakfast casseroles, sausage, biscuits, muffins, and fruit salad. It’s all for only $10 for adults, and $5 for children ages 10 and under. The church is located at 941 Meadow Road in Casco. Telephone: 207-6274282.

Yard & Bake Sale. The Naples United Methodist Church, 1000 Roosevelt Trail on the Village Green, will be holding its Annual Yard/ Bake Sale from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Music on Main featuring American Ride and Bryan Frates Band, the first of the Bridgton Free Concert Series at 144 Main Street. Music is

Spring Recital

(Continued from Page 9B)

a movement from Sibelius’ violin concerto performed by students Gideon Richard, violin and Le Bao Phuoc, piano. Two allegro movements from sonatas by W. A. Mozart mark rites of passage for advancing pianists.

The piano at the Little White church is a special one — a fabulous Steinway O refurbished through the generosity and interest of community members. This is a free concert. Donations will go to the upkeep of The Little White Church and its amazing piano. Please contact Ellen Schwindt for more information: ellen.m.schwindt@gmail.com or 603307-0825.

Senior Rambles

Hiking Trips & Tips

by Allen Crabtree

head but Jeff measured 70 degrees at the Bluff. The warm weather and rain had brought out the wildflowers, and there were both Painted Trillium and “Stinking Benjamin” (Red Trillium) along the trail, as well as Moosewood in bloom.

The group left the trailhead at 9:25 a.m., and morphed into two groups to respect the group size limit in the wilderness area — 10 in the first group led by Paul and four in the other

from 6 to 9 p.m.

Monday, May 29

Memorial Day Service. American Legion Post 67 will be conducting a Memorial Day Ceremony at Farragut Park in Bridgton (North High Street, across from the Town Hall) at 11 a.m. The Legion asks that you arrive at least 15 minutes early so that everyone can be seated prior to the beginning of the ceremony.

7th Annual Memorial Day Free Cruise for veterans and active duty military (and immediate family) on the Songo River Queen II, from 4 to 5:30 p.m., rain or shine. Advance reservations are highly recommended. For more information or to make a reservation call: Rolanda Leary at 207-627-7117 or Dave Gerrish, event coordinator, at 207-693-6854 or e-mail: atozdave@yahoo. com.

Wednesday, May 31

Water Awareness. A series of meetings will be launched as a community effort to understand and address issues around groundwater extraction in Maine. The first meeting will be held on Wednesday, May 31 at 6:30 p.m. at Stevens Brook Elementary School in Bridgton. Guest speakers include engineer Catherine DiPietro, Lakes Environmental Association

Executive Director Colin Holme and Community Water Justice co-founder Nickie Sekera.

Friday, June 2 Duke Robillard Band at Saco River Theatre, 29 Salmon Falls Road, Bar Mills, ME, at 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $15 general admission at www.sacorivertheate. org or call 207-929-6473 for reservations.

Saturday, June 3

Yard & Vendor Sale presented by the Sweden Historical Society and Historic Open House at the Center School House (circa 1854) from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The sale will be held outdoors on the Sweden Historic Green (147 Bridgton Road). Antiques, old books, photo cards, treasures, framed pictures, Avon, quilt raffle. Spaces available $25. Call Gail deWildt at 647-2592.

19th Annual Plant Sale at First Universalist Church of Norway will be from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and will include a wide array of Maine hardy indoor and outdoor plants. First Universalist Church of Norway is located at 479 Main Street, Norway. Please, no early birds!

Saturday, June 10

Opening Day at the Rufus Porter Museum of Art and Ingenuity, 121 Main Street, Bridgton.

group with Jacob who was the “sweep.” The first group got to the Bluff tent site area at about 11:30 a.m. after about two hours climbing, followed by the second group at 11:45 a.m. After snacks and photos, the group headed down at 12:10 p.m., reaching the cars at about 1:55 p.m. after 1 ½ hour descending.

This was a fine hike on a perfect day. It was classed as moderate primarily for the five-mile round trip length and the last half-mile or so that was rocky and steep. The gushing, melodious Peabody River flowing next to the trail and the large trees along the way added to the joy of this hike.

The Bluff in Coos County, N.H.

Difficulty – Moderate

Trail distance (one way) – 2.5 miles

Hiking times (one way) – 2 1/4 hours

Elevation – 2,250 feet

Vertical gains – 400 feet

Coordinates – 44.30571118792207 N, 71.26777000251582

W Topographic Map – Mount Washington 7.5-minute quad/ 44.10567; -71.094

Directions to the trailhead: The Great Gulf Trailhead is north of the AMC Pinkham Notch Visitor Center in Pinkham Notch, just past Wildcat Mountain ski area. The trailhead is on the left (west) side of the road heading north and is well marked.

Summer Concert

(Continued from Page 9B)

Church, 479 Main Street in Norway. For more information, e-mail the chorus at mollyockettchorus@gmail. com or visit the Mollyockett Chorus on Facebook.

Bear Mountain Music

Hall is located at 427 South Waterford Road, Waterford. Concerts are free, supported by audience donations. More information about the summer series can be found bearmountainmusichall.org and Facebook.

BRIDGTON'S FREE CONCERT SERIES

5PM TO 9PM

SATURDAY, MAY 27TH

American ride

Modern

bryan frates band

Acoustic Country

food & beverages by:

Smokin J’s wicked bbq / Mainly melts

Fred’s fried dough / debubble Licous mister twister / happy valley popcorn Co CRÊPE ELIZABETH / SHUT UP N’ EAT IT / JASMINE MOBILE

stella's on the square / beer wine & Spirits

STREET, BRIDGTON, MAINE

Sponsored by:

GREAT GULF from the Bluff Great Gulf Wilderness. (Photo by Paul Waterhouse)

DENMARK MOUNTAIN HIKERS on the Great Gulf Wilderness trail. (Photo by Paul Waterhouse)