July 11, 2024

“The

No extension for Peabody

By Wayne E. Rivet Staff Writer

Bob Peabody is in countdown mode.

Following an executive session prior to Tuesday’s meeting, the Bridgton Select Board rejected a proposal to extend Peabody’s contract effective July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026.

Board Chairman Bob McHatton asked if members wished to make any comments before the vote, but all declined. Select Board members Ken Murphy and Carrye Castleman-Ross voted in favor of the one-year extension, while McHatton, Carmen Lone and Paul Tworog voted against.

Thus, Peabody enters the final year of a three-year contract, which expires on June 30, 2025.

During Select Board comments at the conclusion of Tuesday’s meeting, Murphy said, “I enjoyed all these years working with Mr. Peabody and I can’t wait to work with him until his time is up. Thank you.”

Peabody arrived in Bridgton in 2014, succeeding Mitch Berkowitz, who retired. In an interview with The News, Peabody pointed out he and Berkowitz had known each since about 1980.

“When I started in Berlin, N.H., he was the Recreation

Cook departs from Chamber

The Greater Bridgton Chamber of Commerce announced Monday that Angela Cook, who has served as the Executive Director, has left the Chamber.

“Angie has been an integral part of our organization since she joined in 2015 as the office manager,” the Chamber said in a statement to The News. “During her tenure, Angie built strong relationships on behalf of the Chamber and has been a great source of support for our member businesses. Her dedication and commitment have greatly contributed to the evolution of our Chamber.”

The Board of Directors extended “heartfelt gratitude” to Cook for her years of dedicated service, and they wished her “all the best in her future endeavors.”

“The Chamber remains open for business, and we are committed to providing ongoing support and resources to our members,” the statement said. “Further updates will be provided as we look to our future.”

Casco keeps ACO pact

By Dawn De Busk Staff Writer

CASCO — On Tuesday — a few weeks after Naples announced its intention to end the three-town agreement for a regional Animal Control Officer — Casco leaned toward keeping those shared services with the Town of Raymond. Casco Town Manager Tony Ward talked briefly about an item that was on the agenda of the Casco Select Board. What has taken place in the past few months is: During Naples Annual Town Meeting on May 16, residents rejected the budget for the Animal Control Officer (ACO). Some people in Naples expressed their displeasure with an ACO schedule that was Monday through Thursday. What about the weekends, they asked. Another concern was response time since the ACO was working in a big coverage area. On Tuesday, Ward told the board the topic will come up again as the two remaining towns work out the details.

“In the interlocal agreement, the three towns are required to give 180 days, or six-month’s notice” if a town wants to withdrawal from the pact, Ward said. “Naples wanted us to be aware a year in advance. Their leadership wants to focus on a different model. They think the use of one

By Wayne E. Rivet Staff Writer

For 37 years, Michelle Hallett’s record of 21 minutes, 56 seconds stood as the gold standard in Bridgton.

“I knew this was a tough course,” the Mars Hill native and Boston College grad said. “I had a great pace.” Indeed, she did. Hallett erased Leslie Bancroft’s record-setting time of 22:46, set in 1982.

1987 proved to be a record-setting July as Colin Peddie, who arrived late to the course, topped the previous time to beat (19:21.9) set by Misa Fossas by a whopping 35.9 seconds, breaking the tape in 18:46. 688 runners and walkers finished that day — a new record. A small number by today’s standard — 1885 was this year’s tally — but a record then.

Flipping through pages of the 1987 July edition of The News, numbers then look a lot different than numbers today. Here’s a sampling from advertisements: All-you-can-eat fried or baked fish dinner, $5.95 Ground beef 88 cents per pound; chicken legs 58 cents per pound. Quoddy men’s boat shoes, $24, while ladies beaded mocs were $15. Lakefront homes and cottages were up for sale

between $100,000 to $250,000. Fast-forward to Thursday, July 4, 2024. Emily Durgin’s first introductory to the Bridgton 4 On The Fourth came when she was in middle school. Now 30, she was back here as an elite runner preparing for the USA Track & Field 6K Championship in Canton, Ohio.

Photo)

POST-RACE INTERVIEWS — Bridgton 4 on the Fourth Road Race Director Bill Graham (left) speaks with race winner Jesse Orach and new female time record holder Emily Durgin. (Photo by Rachel Andrews Damon)

SPIRITED FOURTH — Bridgton streets were bubbling with spirit and enthusiasm as runners and walkers took part in the 4 on the Fourth Road Race. Pictured, top, Noah Young of Camp Owatonna; left Courtney Nunley of Lynnfield, Mass.; right, Pastor David Albert of Fryeburg Assembly of God sings the “National Anthem.” (Rivet Photos)

Director and I was City Assessor. When I heard he was retiring, I reached out to him, because I’d been over this way quite a bit visiting, and I think the area is extremely beautiful. I really very much liked your downtown, too, being a former downtown merchant and growing up in a downtown merchant family. I thought the downtown was very appealing, so I reached out to him, and here I am.”

In other Board news:

Tax rate dips. Denis Berube of O’Donnell Associates, who serves as the town’s assessors’ agent, walked the Select Board

through a laundry list of revenue numbers, ultimately leading to the question of whether the Board wished to stick with the current tax rate or make an adjustment.

Some numbers considered:

• The town’s real estate value (land and buildings, minus exemptions) rose $34,892,500. “That’s pretty hefty,” Berube noted. “I wouldn’t expect that (new construction) to be a continuing trend, but you know, while construction is happening, we certainly want to record it.”

• Personal property was down $2.5 million to $12,851,000. “We lost value on personal property

simply because of depreciation in our ratio. It’s unavoidable. I can’t tax personal property accounts at a greater percentage than the real estate properties are being assessed at,” Berube said.

• The total valuation base has grown by $28.9 million.

• Also figured into the overall equation is the school and county taxes.

Berube presented a couple of tax rate options — $16.95 which would provide an overlay of $96,000; or $17 which leads to an overlay of $151,000; or $17.05, which results in an overlay of $205,000.

McHatton asked Town Manager Bob Peabody “where do you feel comfortable on the overlay?”

Having been through five revaluations during his managerial career, Peabody said, “You need to have a healthy overlay because the overlay is what you use to address abatements. Whenever you do a revaluation, you’re going to almost always have more abatements than you would

typically. People file more abatement requests.”

Peabody felt the $17.05 rate would be the “prudent” move, and noted, “that’s still a 15-cent drop in the tax rate.”

The last time the town did a revaluation (2015 or 2016), the overlay was $187,000.

Lone was “comfortable” with the $17.05 rate, saying “It’s still a reduction and these days just keeping the tax rate stable is something short of a miracle. The town manager and department heads have done a good job with the budget.”

The board unanimously went with $17.05.

Take another look at Harbor Master. Before crafting the current budget, officials talked about the idea of adding a harbor master, as well as bringing a Mooring Ordinance to voters.

Selectman Bob McHatton was against the idea.

“I voted against it because I didn’t know any of the facts as to what it really detailed,” he told the

Board. “What I would like to do is put it on the next agenda for discussion, and to create a committee to look into a Harbor Master... what it would cost, what equipment is needed.”

With neighbors Harrison and Naples both using Harbor Masters and having Mooring Ordinances, McHatton said the committee could seek out information from those towns and develop a proposal for the next budget.

“We can sit down and have a good conversation of whether or not we want to do that,” McHatton added.

Town Manager Bob Peabody reminded the board that a Mooring Ordinance has already been crafted by the Ordinance Review Committee, and could be pulled off the shelf for review and/or revision.

Selectman Paul Tworog called for all options to be reviewed as to level of Harbor Master training/ enforcement powers, as well as whether the position could be manned by volunteers.

Peabody plans to provide the Board information regarding liability the town could face when using volunteers in enforcement situations.

Recruiting Committee members. With a new name and “mission” in place, town officials are seeking interested members of the public to join the Sustainability and Energy Efficiency Committee — formerly the Recycling Committee. Information and applications are available on the town’s website (bridgton. org). The Select Board plans to also place advertisements to drum up potential interest, approving up to $200 for the media blitz. Select Board member Carrye Castleman-Ross, who serves as a liaison between the board and committee, pointed out that several members of the former Recycling Committee will be joining the new group. “We would like to encourage other people who haven’t worked on

FESTIVE FOURTH — Main Street was lined as spectators took in the 2024 Fourth of July Parade, sponsored by the Bridgton Lions Club. Entries earning judges’ honors were:

GOOD VIEW OF THE START — This youngster applauds runners as they jog past him at the start of the Bridgton 4 on the Fourth Road Race. (Rivet Photo)

Bridgton notes

the committee before to join because sustainability and energy efficiency are both very important,” Castleman-Ross said.

with reflectors because it seems to be working for the people who bought property on Highland Lake.”

Bringing books to kids.

Naples sets September vote

By Dawn De Busk Staff Writer

NAPLES — Funding animal control and approving a moratorium to stop new construction of retail stores in the Town of Naples — those are the two issues that cannot wait until next year to be addressed.

The Naples Select Board set a date of Sept. 5, which is a Thursday, for Special Town Meeting. It was already understood that when residents at Annual Town Meeting voted down the budget for an Animal Control Officer (ACO) shared with two oth-

er towns, a special town meeting would be required to rectify the matter. The Town of Naples cannot exit the contract with Raymond and Casco until July 1, 2025, which is the beginning of the next fiscal year. Currently, leftover funding is being used to cover Naples’ portion of the interlocal agreement.

On Monday, the board set the special town meeting date and discussed both topics.

“The ACO budget failed during town meeting so we need to vote on that. Two weeks back, there was a

moratorium on all construction for retail stores,” according to Naples Town Manager Jason Rogers. As far as the ACO budget, the amount has not changed, Rogers clarified. Additionally, the interlocal agreement remains in effect for the rest of fiscal year, he said.

“What the voters were lacking was a description of how that service will be changed,” he said. “What was brought up is: What would it take to create our own animal control officer position?”

The work that lies be-

Resignation. Expressing “gratitude” for her efforts, the Select Board accepted the resignation of Lauren Pickford from the Open Space Committee and Pondicherry Park Committee.

Back to drawing board. Geese remain a problem at Highland Lake Beach, leaving unwanted reminders of their visits each day. The town tried using a “fake” coyote to scare away the geese, but Selectman Paul Tworog heard through social media that vandals tossed the coyote into the pond area past the dam.

“I did go over to the beach and I did not see the fake coyote statue, but I certainly saw a lot of geese droppings,” Tworog said. “Maybe we try using string

“Free Little Library” boxes can be found throughout Bridgton, and the Molly Ockett DAR Chapter wants to add one to the park area adjacent to the Bridgton Municipal Complex.

While the DAR will provide the “box,” the town will install a 4x4 post in concrete to secure the free library, which will be stocked with “age appropriate” and “no political agenda” books for children. There will be a sign, “children only,” included. The DAR and town will come up with a mutually agreeable spot to place the Free Little Library.

“They have been well received, well used and very little vandalism with them,” Select Board member Lone noted.

Next meeting is Tuesday, July 23 at 5 p.m.

Casco ACO pact

(Continued from Page 1A)

person for three communities is challenging,” he said.

“Raymond wants to remain in the agreement. The revenue would be smaller if we split it two ways,” Ward said

Essentially, the Town of Casco is responsible for the ACO’s pay and benefits, and the other towns reimburse Casco. Therefore, as it appears on the budget, Casco has a higher, upfront expense than Naples and Raymond do. But, Casco receives revenue to balance that out.

As a point of clarification: Naples will hold a Special Town Meeting to approve the funding for this fiscal year. Naples would officially withdrawal from the interlocal agreement starting July 1, 2025.

Most likely, the real work of figuring out the ACO services will occur during the budget process next winter and spring.

“Both boards would have to decide between Raymond and Casco what coverage they want. Do you want 50-50 or 33-67? This is coming down the road,” Ward said.

By Dawn De Busk Staff Writer

NAPLES — A suggestion to put up fencing on the remaining abutment of the Edes Falls Dam on the Crooked River turned into a discussion about signs.

Resident Ken Norton, who has been very involved in the removal of the remnants of Edes Falls Dam, expressed his safety concerns about people getting injured climbing on or falling off what is left of the dam. Norton shared his recommendation to keep folks off the abutment with the Naples Select Board during its regular meeting on Monday.

He started out saying he had been spending some time at the swimming spot. Obviously, only the abutment on the River Road side is left now that the deconstruction work has been completed, he said.

This week, Norton witnessed a family was swimming in the river while one of the children got out of the water, wandered away from the family, and appeared on top of the abutment. Fairly quickly, the father realized the child had climbed up there and succeeded in per-

suading the child to come down, Norton said.

“I think the town should put up safety fencing. … It would be prudent to get it blocked off — something to protect people who wouldn’t climb it,” he said.

“It is still a 9-foot drop down the ledge,” Norton warned.

He said there would still be people who will ignore the fencing and climb it anyway.

Naples Town Manager Jason Rogers responded to the suggestion. Basically, he said that signs were sufficient.

“I did run the signs by our town attorney: ‘Caution fall hazard, No trespassing beyond this point, and The remnant

fore the Naples Budget Committee this winter is: Figuring out a financially feasible model for an ACO department for the town. Meanwhile, the work that lies before the town manager is writing down the job performance standards to create a new, one-town ACO position.

“If we are able to make a good case to the voters that the town could create its own ACO department, that could be ready for [Annual] Town Meeting,” Rogers said.

If it is cost prohibitive, the town might have to resume the status quo, he said.

Also, the $5,000 minisplit unit purchased for the smallest building on the Village Green won’t be installed there. The heat/AC installation was planned so that the ACO would have a set space to do paperwork, etc.

Actually, that cost is listed under Capital Improvements and not in the ACO budget.

After having discussion with the town manager in Raymond and Casco, Rogers realized the amount of administrative time that the ACO would have in Naples might not warrant the dedicated office space.

The installation of the mini-split unit on pause; and, it is now being considered for the Singer Center, he said.

The other item to be placed on the special town meeting warrant depends on what gets completed first.

“As we approach Sept. 5, is the moratorium ready or are the design standards portion of the Land-Use

HAVING FUN IN THE NAPLES PARADE — It was a great day to ride on a float under a sunny sky along Route 302 in Naples. More photos on Page 10B.

(De Busk Photo)

A taste of Italy comes to Maine

By Sue Mercer Special to The News

NAPLES — In the cozy town of Naples, residents have found a new favorite spot to savor authentic Italian cuisine, thanks to a dynamic husband and wife team of Mark and Lucy Clinton at Chianti, 215 Roosevelt Trail, Naples. These culinary maestros, well-known for their successful Italian restaurant in Beverly, Mass., have brought their passion and delicious dishes to our community, and we couldn’t be more thrilled.

For those who may not know, this talented duo ran one of the most popular Italian eateries in Massachusetts. Their restaurant was a cherished place where families gathered for special occasions, friends met to catch up over a hearty meal, and everyone felt like part of a big, happy family. Now, they’ve recreated that warm and welcoming atmosphere right here at Chianti.

A Warm Welcome

Since opening their doors, the new Italian restaurant has quickly become a hit among locals and past customers from Massachusetts. People appreciate not just the mouth-watering food, but the friendly, inviting ambiance that makes every dining experience special. It’s not uncommon to see familiar faces from Massachusetts who have discovered this gem, happily sharing meals and memories once again.

PORTLAND — The Maine Connectivity Authority awarded more than $12 million in grants to fund digital improvements to 12 community organizations across Maine.

The grants are part of the Maine Connectivity Authority’s Connectivity

The Magic of Authentic Cuisine

The secret to their success lies in their dedication to authenticity and quality. From their Tour of Italy, a diner’s favorite to Oysters and Calamari, every dish is prepared with love and the finest ingredients. The menu boasts a delightful mix of classic Italian favorites and innovative new dishes that keep customers coming back for more.

perfect for dipping into their signature olive oil.

A Place for Everyone

What makes this restaurant truly special is its ability to bring people together.

Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, having a romantic dinner, or just looking for a place to enjoy a delicious meal, you’ll find a welcoming atmosphere and a friendly smile. Lucy, Mark and their staff make it a point to greet every guest,

Chianti Italian Cuisine

Hours: MondayTuesday closed; Wednesday-Sunday, 4 to 9 p.m.

Tel. 207-693-9303

Website: chiantiofnaples.com

From Massachusetts to Maine: The Beloved Italian Bistro Journey

Community Favorites

Local residents have quickly developed their own favorites. The lasagna, with its layers of pasta, cheese, and perfectly seasoned meat, is a crowd-pleaser. The homemade tiramisu, a sweet ending to any meal, has also become a musttry. And let’s not forget the warm, crusty bread that accompanies every dish,

making you feel like part of the family.

A Bright Future

Hubs Program, which will help community anchor institutions — such as libraries, community centers, municipal and tribal buildings, and affordable housing developments — provide workforce training, education and telehealth services in areas most impacted by a lack of access

to high-speed internet. The Connectivity Hubs Program is funded through the ARPA Capital Projects Funds from the U.S. Department of Treasury.

time fan from Massachusetts or a new friend from Maine, be sure to visit this wonderful Italian restaurant, Chianti, 215 Roosevelt Trail, Naples. It’s a place where good food, good company, and good times come together, making every meal a delightful experience. Come join us and be part of this delicious journey!

As the word spreads, the restaurant, Chianti, continues to thrive, bringing joy and delectable food to more and more people. Lucy and Mark are delighted to be part of the Maine community and are grateful for the warm reception they’ve received. They look forward to creating more memories and sharing their love of Italian cuisine with everyone who walks through their doors. So, whether you’re a long-

“Ensuring Americans have access to reliable, highspeed internet is crucial to helping families succeed in the 21st century economy,” said Deputy Secretary of the U.S. Treasury Wally Adeyemo. “This investment is part of the BidenHarris Administration’s historic investments to unlock economic opportunities for everyone and to ensure fami-

DIGITAL, Page 6A

IN THE CHIANTI KITCHEN, Mark Clinton.

Area News Police Beat

Warning signs

(Continued from Page 3A)

did get those printed,” Rogers said.

“There is personal responsibility that needs to be exercised. The signs we are putting up meet the legal requirement,” he said. “We don’t put guardrails on every single road to keep people from driving off the road. I think the same logic should be applied here. Personal responsibility plays a big part in this.”

Fencing won’t be erected on the abutment unless the select board direct him to do so, Rogers said.

Norton paused for a moment and said that at some point in the future, railing might look nice and create more of a viewing area, while stopping folks from going to the end of the abutment. He admitted he had been atop the abutment twice and the view was amazing. He could see fish swimming down below. Norton offered to pay for the railing.

Town Manager Rogers said that if the board decided to pursue putting up railing, that would go through the Naples Parks and Land Use Committee. For the time being, he did not favor the railing idea.

“How many signs were ordered,” Norton asked.

Rogers said two signs: A larger one to replace the one at the base access on a tree and one to face of the dam upstream

Norton had some suggestions of better spots.

Rogers agreed to do a site walk later in the week to pinpoint the best location for the two signs.

September vote

(Continued from Page 3A)

Ordinance ready? The preferred option is the Design standard Ordinance,” Rogers said.

Vice-chair Colin Brackett asked how the Naples Ordinance Review Committee was doing with that rewrite.

Select Board Member Kevin Rogers, who sits on the committee, answered.

“We used a model from another town. We worked on plugging the terminology into existing Site Plan Ordinance. So, it went smoothly as far as what could fit where,” Kevin Rogers said.

The town planner was reviewing it and adding wording from another ordinance the committee liked.

One good option is using photos to illustrate what design standards Naples is seeking, Town Manager Rogers said. Essentially, a photo would be plugged in rather than a description, which could possibly be interpreted different ways, he said.

“A picture works better than words,” Select Board Member Bill Adams said.

Following the discussion, the board voted, 4-0, to put Sept. 5 on the calendar as the special town meeting date. Ted Shane was absent from this week’s meeting.

SPECIAL OLYMPICS BENEFIT — Al Hayes

of Hayes Ace Hardware presents Bridgton Police Department Chief of Police Phil Jones with a check for $3,391.30, which was raised at the “Fill the Grill” Special Olympics fundraiser held at the hardware store.

Bridgton Police

These items appeared on the Bridgton Police Department blotter (this is a partial listing): Monday, July 1

3:18 p.m. Caller reporting a dog left in an unoccupied vehicle in the Hannaford parking lot.

3:37 p.m. Welfare check on North Bridgton Road.

6:40 p.m. Agency assist (secure a boat that had freed from a mooring) at Highland Lake.

8:55 p.m. Suspicious vehicle report at the intersection of North High Street and Prescott Ridge.

Tuesday, July 2

1:57 p.m. Theft complaint on Main Street.

2:05 p.m. Responding to a theft in progress report, police arrested a male at a Main Street business. He was charged with theft.

2:48 p.m. Suspicious person on Main Street.

5:36 p.m. Harassment complaint at Cluff Lane.

8:58 p.m. Citizen assist on Whitney Road.

10:05 p.m. Fireworks complaint on Main Street,

Junior Harmon Field area.

10:10 p.m. Welfare check on Main Street. Wednesday, July 3

2:06 a.m. Mental health event; assist from United Ambulance. Patient taken to the hospital.

2:36 p.m. Welfare check on Sweden Road.

7:22 p.m. Citizen assist on Harrison Road. 9:25 p.m. Disturbance on Main Street.

10:11 p.m. Responding to a noise complaint on Evergreen Road, police found a “large house party playing loud music and launching fireworks outside of the town ordinance.” Police informed individuals of the town ordinance and requested that the music level be turned down. Thursday, July 4

9:34 a.m. Animal problem at the intersection of Highland Road and Kennard Street.

2:46 p.m. Motor vehicle crash with personal injury on Lumberyard Drive. 2:44 p.m. Report of a

Casco motorcyclist dies from injuries

CASCO

week. The Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office reported that Nicholas Murdock, 35, succumbed to injuries and died at Maine Medical Center in Portland. Murdock was traveling east on Meadow Road in Casco on July 1 at about

4:30 p.m. when he lost control of his 2014 Harley Davidson motorcycle as he approached a corner. Murdock, who was wearing a helmet, struck a mailbox and guardrail, CCSO reported. He was transported to MMC via LifeFlight.

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

Lorena Plourd

Bridgton News (USPS 065-020) is published Thursdays at 118 Main Street, Bridgton, Maine. Periodicals class postage at Bridgton, Maine. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Bridgton News, P.O. Box 244, Bridgton, ME 04009

6

1

Bridgton – 14 acres. This renovated farmhouse from the 1850s offers both seclusion and modern

Vinyl siding and on-demand water heater keep things simple. Home is set on a private, wooded four-acre lot. Basement has high ceilings. Two car garage. $382,500

Closing digital divide

lies have access to critical work, education, and health care services.”

Grants were awarded for capital improvements to community anchor institutions, funding construction, renovation and essential assets like affordable devices for public access and lending programs. These improvements will create space for people to access educational and workforce training programs, use telehealth to improve access to care, and provide access to high-speed internet, computers, and technical support, especially for those facing the most barriers to connecting.

Connectivity Hub investments are part of MCA’s strategy to advance digital equity for all: to ensure that all Maine people have access to and are able to use information and communications technologies so they can fully realize the civic, economic, health, educational, social and other benefits that they provide.

“There’s no single solution that will make fast, reliable internet available to everyone in Maine who wants it,” said Andrew Butcher, president of the Maine Connectivity

Authority. “But we know that the digital divide has the biggest negative impact on people living in rural communities, older Mainers, veterans, people with disabilities and other marginalized populations. The Connectivity Hub program makes critical investments in community organizations so they can help all people in Maine fully realize the civic, economic, health, educational, and social benefits of that connection.”

Among the 12 organizations receiving grant awards were the Bridgton Public Library, $250,000. The Bridgton Public Library will be completing a renovation and expansion project that maintains the original historic building while modernizing the public spaces to meet the needs of Bridgton and the surrounding areas.

With this Connectivity Hub project, the library will add small, private meeting spaces for telehealth, workforce development and continuing education opportunities, as well as modernize and improve our community meeting spaces for larger workshop opportunities. BPL will continue to offer public access computers, improve

Grants awarded

The Harrison Food Bank and Lake Region Senior Service in Bridgton landed grants from the John T. Gorman Foundation.

The Foundation has awarded a total of $357,000 to 19 organizations in Cumberland County through its 2024 Direct Services Grants program. Funds from this program are used to support nonprofits across the state in providing basic supports and services to Mainers in need.

The Harrison Food Bank was awarded $10,000 to provide general operating support, while Lake Region Senior Service was given $12,000 to support the Healthcare Access Transportation program.

our free and open WIFI, free technology workshops and one-on-one assistance, and build upon these successes with new and innovative partnerships to implement the State of Maine Digital Inclusion Plan at the local level.

Following an open interest form, 15 projects were invited to submit a full application. Each awarded organization serves multiple covered populations, with a focus on individuals residing in rural areas. Additionally, it has expertise in delivering services to aging individuals, veterans, those facing language barriers.

‘I

am There’ for a few swings

By Suzie Kinney Highlands Golf Columnist

Do you remember the old tv program “You Are There?” Admittedly, it was many years ago airing in the 50s and 60s. Many of you will never have heard of it, but you can YouTube it.

It was hosted by the famous newsman Walter Cronkite over the radio and television. The idea was to show events from history in an attempt to teach viewers in an entertaining way about a specific event in time. It hung in for several years, but my memory was that it didn’t really excite me. Being outdoors playing a game does excite me. I am all in, “I Am There,” when involved with tennis or golf. I’ve not witnessed any major events, certainly not anything that Mr. Cronkite would have reported on. I have seen a few animal encounters on the golf course though. A

moose wandering down the 18th fairway, a fox hunting on hole 5 and deer on several holes. Since I am recovering from an injury playing golf is not allowed. However, I can chip and putt. No big moves, small swings are ideal for now. Hopefully this will improve my score when I am able to play...or at least improve my short game. On Wednesday, I carted from one group to another. I’d chip and putt, listen, laugh and enjoy their company. As Cronkite said, I was there, in the moment. The game this week was one of my favorites — 3 clubs and a putter. It is a challenge that isn’t to everyone’s liking. However, many of our ladies performed very well and enjoyed the game. The pot was for fewest putts. This is where I hope to excel when playing as chipping and put-

Highlands weekly chip shots

By Whit Lesure

Highlands Golf Columnist

The past week has featured a variety of activities around Independence Day and a return of the heat and humidity that reminds me of the movie Groundhog Day (a must-see Bill Murray flick for you youngsters) where every day begins eerily similar.

In golf, like life, it’s on us to make the most out of every “round” despite the inevitable challenges that lay waiting for us. Family gatherings during the summer weeks have a powerful way of reinforcing what’s most important on our “trip around the sun” too.

The Tuesday evening Scramble crew got the week started and “The New Kids on the Block” returned to form with a 7-under Low Gross victory. Ben Chaine, Nate Smith, Mickey Huntress, and Damon Knight, showed us that as good as they were in the “Laker Blue & Gold,” they ain’t half-bad in assorted golf shirts either. Taking 2nd Gross was the team of Jim “Light it Up” Apovian, Brian “Go Low” Grosso, Jim Barber, and Rafael Guillermety. 3rd Gross went to another set of “Laker Legends” with Jacoby True, Erin Plummer, Shane Plummer, and Matt Plummer back in the money.

1st Net was won by the “Good Old Boys” team of Cody “Tex” Reid, Bob Pollard, Paul Howard, and Jeff “Doc Holiday” Polansky. 2nd Net was earned by the foursome of Doug “2nd ?” Plaice, Len “The Bagman” Carsley, Steve “Sneaky” Dearborn, and Ellen Ruja. 3rd Net belonged to the “All in the Family” squad of Ken “A. Bunker” Murray, Martha Murray, Megan Murray, and honorary family member Russ Sweet. Russ also picked up the NTP #2 prize with a “Sweet” shot at 24-inches. Len Carsley “Bagged” NTP #8 with an equally nifty 33-inch prize-winning shot. July 4th showcased the 1st BHCC Independence Day Best Ball Tournament. First place with a Low Gross score

of 68 went to the team of Jim “Do These Carts Come with Seatbelts”? Thombs, John “the Gymnast” Roberge, Whit Lesure, and Wayne Kuvaja. Three shots back was the “Import Team” of Matt McAloon, Pat McAloon, Jon McAloon, and Rich Tommack.

1st Net was won by “The Incredibles” featuring “Peppermint Patty Walo, Doug “Smoke” Walo, Del Runnals, and wife Tara Runnals who helped secure their win with a very rare “2-Net-Zero” on #13. Good luck beating that squad. Finishing one shot back was the foursome of Phil Messina, Joe Cardone, Will Hansen, and Steve “Don’t Call Me Grogan” Brogan. In addition to the awesome barbecue hosted by Food & Beveridge King

Mike Shea, the other highlight may have been the pace of play that saw all teams finish in under four hours and 30 minutes. I’d call that a “win” for these sort of events in my experience. Hats off to Head Pro John Boswell and staff for inaugurating a great day that is sure to be a staple of holiday golf in the future.

In Friday night’s equally

festive “Nine & Dine MixedScramble,” 1st Gross was won by the team of Kate “Elder” Bartol, Todd Bartol, Lisa Horn, and Steve Horn. 1st Net in no shocker was garnered by Tara “Two-NetZero” Runnals, Del Runnals, Doug “Smoke” Walo, and “Peppermint” Patty Walo. See above.

CHIP SHOTS, Page 10A

ting is about all I can do right now.

The Low Gross Winner was Shari “Big Dog” Linskey. Second low gross was Nita Craig-Carsley and third place was taken by Lynne Gillen. The Low Net winner was “Jolting” June Imo. Second place was shared by Marilyn Brady, Gail Chaiken, Donna Rollo and Patty Walo. The three-way tie for fewest putts was won by June Imo, Donna Lebkuecher and Shari Linsky. In other club news:

On Independence Day, the club hosted a 4th of July Tournament — one planned for next year as well. The turnout was a filled tournament sheet of 13 foursomes playing on our beautiful Bridgton Highlands Golf course. I am planning to be on the course next summer for this friendly, fun-filled tournament. After play included a meal of burgers, hotdogs, chicken, chips, dips and drinks. The crowd on the porch enjoyed the afterglow of a well-run tournament thanks to John Boswell and his staff.

The Low Gross winning foursome was John Boberge, Wayne Kuvaja, Jim Thombs and Whit Lesure with a score of 68.

Very impressive! The second low gross foursome was Matt McAloon, Pat McAloon, Jon McAloon and Rich Tommack with a score of 71. A 3-stroke dif-

ference meant for a competitive match. The Low Net winning foursome was Del and Tara Runnals paired with Doug and Patty Walo. Notably, Tara had a birdie on hole 13 with a minus 2 stroke handicap. This gave them a score of zero on the hole. This may have been the hole that put them in the lead to win low net with a score of 56. The second low net foursome was Steve Brogan, Joe Cardone, Will Hansen and Phil Messina. Their low net score was 57, so another very close outcome with the winners pulling it out by one stroke. On Friday afternoon, the club hosted a Nine and Dine tournament. Again, I missed out but witnessed some of the play and enjoyed the crowd after the final foursome finished their round. The winning Low Gross team was Todd and Kate Bartol paired with Steve and Lisa Horn. The winning Low Net team was Del and Tara Runnels paired with Doug and Patty Walo. The Runnals and Walos seem to be the team to beat in any upcoming tournaments. All eyes on them! Food, drinks and fun followed with a noisy clubhouse and outdoor porch filled with happy golfers. Tip of the Week: Enjoy the beautiful weather and practice daily. Hit’em Long and Straight!

Regional Sports

Orach notches second Bridgton win; Durgin sets new time to beat

(Continued from Page 1A)

“This race was used as a workout while I am back East for the summer. It was fun to come back. I have a summer of races in the East Coast, so that is why I am training out of Maine,” said Durgin, who is staying in Standish. “I have been running competitively since middle school. Now 30, clearly, I love it. It’s always fun to see steady improvement. I love the challenge of being my best on the day.”

Durgin was clearly elite in Thursday’s race. She not only set a new record at 20:42, but was the first female to finish in the Top 3 in the Bridgton’s race history.

“Mile 1 was fast and this broke the field. Mile 2 was a grind and I was able to work with the guy (Ian Denis, 26, of Lovell) who got second. Then, the last two miles, I gained to finish third,” said Durgin who was cruising at a 5 minute, 11 second mile pace. “The run went great. Then, I did the course again after to get my full workout in.”

Caroline Livingston, 22, of Barrington, R.I. was the second female finisher at 23:10 — good for 14th overall.

Shelby Stoll, 29, of Rockland was the third fastest female at 24:18, 24th overall.

Jesse Orach, 30, of Auburn captured his second Bridgton win with a time of 19 minutes, 59 seconds — a 5-minute mile pace.

“I had run it once before in 2021 and wanted to use the same strategy as before. I wanted to go hard in the first mile and push up the hill and have the race won by the top of the hill so I could coast downhill to the finish,” he said. “There was only two of us in the front by about 0.5 mile in and it was about halfway up the hill at Mile 1.5 when I started to get separation.”

Denis placed second in 20:30 followed by Durgin, Dom Sclafani, 24, of Harrison in 20:48 and Tim Poitras, 28, of Dracut, Mass. in 21:08.

Orach was “very happy” with his run. “I was about 10 seconds faster than three years ago and felt a lot stronger in the race,” he said.

Both Durgin and Orach thoroughly enjoyed the competitive side of Bridgton’s 4 On The Fourth, as well as the lively atmosphere created by spirited spectators lining the race route.

“I loved all the fans out there,” Durgin said. “I’ve met a ton of great people through races.”

Orach agreed. “I really enjoyed seeing the turnout and atmosphere at the start and finish. To have over 2000 runners at a race like this was very exciting and fun to be a part of. I think the whole race was well orchestrated keeping runners safe on the course and it was well marked throughout. I had a blast and look forward to running it again in the future.”

For full race results, go to the Bridgton 4 on the Fourth Race website.

Bridgton 4 on the Fourth 2024 Top 10

1. Jesse Orach, Auburn, 19:59

2. Ian Denis, Lovell, 20:30

3. Emily Durgin, Standish, 20:42

4. Dom Sclafani, Harrison, 20:48

5. Tim Poitras, Dracut, MA, 21:08

6. Grady Kemp, Casco, 21:24

7. Turner Crockett, Oregon, 21:47

8. Romayn Richards, Brunswick, 22:01

9. Sean Livingston, Barrington, RI, 22:09

10. Chris Harmon, Westbrook, 22:26 Local finishers

12. Aidan Roberts, Casco, 23:00

44. Christian Bassett, Casco, 25:29

48. Caleb Coombs, Sweden, 25:55

53. Laura Polito, Bridgton, 26:06

58. David Sheldrick, Sebago, 26:29

74. Evan Connors, Bridgton, 26:55

84. Roan Parkes, Bridgton, 27:24

90. John Dahlberg, Bridgton, 27:33

107. Matthew Plummer, Naples, 28:03

110. Kyle Conforte, Bridgton, 28:06

111. Heath Roberts, Casco, 28:10 113. Abigail Roberts, Casco, 28:14 133. Ken Ross, Harrison, 28:45 137. Jake Dole, Harrison, 28:50 148. Floyd Lavery, Sebago, 29:12 149. Natasha Aube, Naples, 29:15 161. Jayden Jines, Bridgton, 29:33

163. PJ Ricatto, Denmark, 29:35 165. Joseph Stefano, Lovell, 29:37

168. Tristan Cormier, Bridgton, 29:40

193. Rebecca Weston, Bridgton, 30:08

197. Tim Atwood, North Bridgton, 30:15

203. Sara Bradley, Waterford, 30:25

204. Graham Scales, Bridgton, 30:26

215. Merrik Iacozili, Fryeburg, 30:47

221. Kimberly Chase, Raymond, 30:58

231. Jason Nadeau Sr., Bridgton, 31:15

232. Isabella Vassoler, Raymond, 31:16

243. Sawyer Severson, Bridgton, 31:24

246. Scott Severson, Bridgton, 31:27

251. Addy Ingham, Fryeburg, 31:30

252. Erik Martin, Naples, 31:30

254. Emerson Stefano, Lovell, 31:30

255. Daniel Jaronczyk, Bridgton, 32:00

258. Kyle Williams, Bridgton, 31:32

269. Lucian Bassett, Casco, 31:43

281. Kyle Hanley, Bridgton, 31:57

285. Ethan Kutella, Naples, 32:04

291. Daniel Vitalis, Bridgton, 32:13

294. Tucker Chase, Raymond, 32:26

296. Aaron Chase, Raymond, 32:21

307. Logan Spindell, Sebago, 32:38

309. Alan Beaulieu, Harrison, 32:39

311. Jenny Sokolowski, Naples, 32:40

315. Ellie Ryan, Bridgton, 32:43

327. Alicia Donahue, Bridgton, 32:54

331. James Kenney, Denmark, 32:56

332. Erin Plummer, Naples, 32:56

335. Collin Varney, Bridgton, 33:01

347. Jason Luce, Sebago, 33:11

348. Maggie Luce, Sebago, 33:11

350. Colin Bain, Sweden, 33:12

352. Travis Brown, Bridgton, 33:13 354. Hudson Hagan, Denmark, 33:15 358. Wyeth Parkes, Bridgton, 33:27

370. Andrew Myers, Naples, 33:41 383. Frank Flavell, Naples, 33:49

417. Michael Mageles, Denmark, 34:29 419. Kate Riggs, Naples, 34:32 423. Bill Reilly, Brownfield, 34:34 431. Benjamin Baker, Bridgton, 34:41 444. Maida Shiva, Bridgton, 34:53 445. David Albert, Fryeburg, 34:55

452. Woody Sokolowski, Naples, 35:00 455. Stephanie Broadbent, Casco, 35:01 463. Gydo Jagersma, Denmark, 35:07 470. Phillip Cavanaugh, Bridgton, 35:12 486. Gregory Roemer, Naples, 35:24

490. Colby Galvin, Naples, 35:31 496. Will Guthro, Bridgton, 35:36

500. Avani Vitalis, Bridgton, 35:38

507. Dana Martin, Bridgton, 35:42; 510. Darcy Dyer, Naples, 35:46

550. Neil Menard, Bridgton, 36:24

557. Julianne Coombs, Sweden, 36:30 564. Callahan Stefano, Lovell, 36:37

568. Geo Ames, Waterford, 36:41 575. Tom Gilmore, Denmark, 36:47 582. Gretta Sens, Bridgton, 36:56 584. Thomas Flanagan, Bridgton, 36:59 585. Yolanda America, Bridgton, 36:59 592. Thomas Jaronczyk, Bridgton, 37:08 594. Gavin Hunt, Fryeburg, 37:08 620. Brittney Locke, Harrison, 37:26 627. Katie Haley, Fryeburg, 37:31 628. Matthew Shepherd, Bridgton, 37:31 634. Carly Craig, Bridgton, 37:38 641. Chase Hopkins, Bridgton, 37:47 643. Colin Murphy, Bridgton, 37:48 650. Buddy Tucker, North Bridgton, 37:54 656. Rainie Wiemer, Denmark, 38:00 674. Todd Canedy, Waterford, 38:09 678. Liz Canter, Bridgton, 38:14 681. Braken Surma, Naples, 38:17 683. Kimberly Shepherd, Bridgton, 38:22 685. Delia Fontana, Naples, 38:48 691. Grady Rockwell, Bridgton, 38:28 696. Brailey Sands, Harrison, 38:37 697. Madison Olsen, Sebago, 38:40 699. Abbigail Nadeau, Bridgton, 38:42 700. Jack Chandler, Bridgton, 38:43 712. Alan Sparn, Sweden, 38:57 715. Samantha Jones, Casco, 39:00 716. Allen Hayes, Bridgton, 39:02 724. Shamus Shea, Raymond, 39:13 725. Susanna Cortese, Naples, 39:15 726. Peter Brooks, Raymond, 39:15 730. Luke Lowell, Sweden, 39:12 731. Hosea Jones, Bridgton, 39:21 758. Brian Chute, Casco, 39:54 765. Pamela Moulton, N. Bridgton, 39:58 793. Ellie Coombs, Sweden, 40:24 794. Caden Hoffman, Naples, 40:26 798. Parker Izaryk, N. Bridgton, 40:23 799. Nicole Eastman, Stow, 40:29 804. Peter Desroches, Sweden, 40:34

825. Cole Hopkins, Bridgton, 40:51 827. Richard Dunham, Lovell, 40:53 830. Monica Quinn, Naples, 40:56 835. Caroline Desroches, Sweden, 40:58 842. Jacqueline Sawyer, Raymond, 41:03 845. Laura Abbott, Raymond, 41:08 849. Aaron Izaryk, N. Bridgton, 41:11 850. Aiden Coombs, Sweden, 41:11 854. Elizabeth Simmerman, Bridgton, 41:13 855. Stephen Simmerman, Bridgton, 41:13 861. Kelly Cote, Bridgton, 41:22 865. Sarah Oakley, Bridgton, 41:24; 881. Kyle Cornell, Bridgton, 41:32 889. Paul Lahaie, Denmark, 41:37 893. Henry Lowell, Sweden, 41:39 901. Olivia Lindsay, Sebago, 41:50 905. Erica Allan-Chute, Casco, 41:53 906. Daniel Richards, Bridgton, 41:54 908. Damian Siebert, Bridgton, 41:55 909. Zoe Grant, Bridgton, 41:56 910. Sean Beacham, Bridgton, 41:57 915. Ashley Pelletier, Bridgton, 41:59 917. Wesley Coombs, Sweden, 42:03 919. Jake White, Bridgton, 42:11 925. Jason Nadeau Jr., Bridgton, 42:13 927. Helena Sheldrick, Sebago, 42:14 930. Erinn Green, Naples, 42:16 931. Benjamin Kemp, Casco, 42:16 932. Kevin Daner, Denmark, 42:17 933. Susan Lyons, Denmark, 42:16 941. Ann Lowell, Sweden, 42:30 945. Rick Zimmer, Bridgton, 42:37 946. Tommy Guthro, Sweden, 42:37 947. Steve Jacovino, Brownfield, 42:38 957. William Toohey-Flavell, Naples, 42:50 968. Ryan Hayes, Bridgton, 43:02 980. Roxanne Ames, Waterford, 43:15 984. Joann Flanagan, Bridgton, 43:26 985. Anne Trumbull, Fryeburg, 43:27 993. Sage Suorsa, Bridgton, 43:40 994. Adyn Breton, Naples, 43:42 995. Molly Breton, Naples, 43:42

RUNNERS, Page 8A

LOTS OF RED, WHITE AND BLUE was seen along the Bridgton 4 on the Fourth Road Race as runners and walkers did not disappoint with some colorful jogging and walking attire. Pictured clockwise, starting top left,

Nikolai Markovich Jr. of Hopkinton, Mass.; Kathryn Howarth of Windham, N.H.; Meghan Hill of Brownfield gets a big hug; and Brian Ballard of Herndon, Va.

(Rivet Photos)

How local runners fared on Fourth

997. Lisa Anderson, Sebago, 43:44 1008. Michael Larrabee, Bridgton, 43:51 1010. Dean Flanagin, Raymond, 43:54 1016. Melissa Rascoe, Harrison, 44:09 1020. Kelly Akerley, N. Bridgton, 44:12 1025. Emma Brooks, Naples, 44:14 1028. Colton Hoffman, Naples, 44:15 1029. Matthew Hoffman, Naples, 44:15 1030. Patricia Shulte, Bridgton, 44:16 1031. Nicole Stefano, Lovell, 44:16 1032. Nathan Sessions, Harrison, 44:16 1034. Cydney Cheh, Bridgton, 44:20 1061. Ashley Martin, Naples, 44:46 1072. Rebecca Rich, Bridgton, 45:03 1074. Dwayne Varney, Bridgton, 45:09 1075. Melissa Rock, Bridgton, 45:10 1090. Timothy Rich, Bridgton, 45:30 1092. Meghan Hill, Brownfield, 45:33 1095. Taylor Morgan, Denmark, 45:35 1096. Megan White, Bridgton, 45:39 1097. Susan Menard, Bridgton, 45:41 1099. Erica Green, Naples, 45:46 1100. Christy Butterfield, Denmark, 45:47 1109. Susan Prince, Bridgton, 46:03 1115. Michael Jones, Casco, 46:12 1117. Bob Wentworth, Bridgton, 46:13 1118. Karen Shea, Raymond, 46:15 1119. Paul Miller, N. Bridgton, 46:17 1131. Odin Hebert, Sebago, 46:40 1138. Darci Williams, Naples, 46:50 1147. Sam Levy, Harrison, 47:02 1193. Lindsay Kenney, Denmark, 48:18

1194. Megan Regis, Bridgton, 48:20 1196. Marla Keefe, Casco, 48:26 1204. Kim Flanagin, Raymond, 48:42 1205. Paul Webber, Bridgton, 48:47 1213. Nichole Johnson, Casco, 49:05 1214. Richie Ainsworth, Sweden, 49:06 1215. Taylor St. John, Harrison, 49:06 1216. Kirsty Ainsworth, Sweden, 49:07 1221. Paul Tworog, Bridgton, 49:12 1233. Gard Crawford, N. Bridgton, 49:24 1242. Sue Miller, N. Bridgton, 49:30 1244. Sandy Stout, Fryeburg, 49:30 1245. Andrew Lowell, Sweden, 49:32 1248. Leigh Hayes, Bridgton, 49:38 1249. Marita Wiser, Bridgton, 49:38 1250. Katelyn Erwin, Harrison, 49:43 1282. Michelle Bourgeois, Bridgton, 50:24 1283. Laurie Allen, Bridgton, 50:26 1292. Bill Wood, Harrison, 50:43 1293. Nancy Kluck, Bridgton, 50:48 1309. Hailey Brewer, Bridgton, 51:19 1313. Kristen Dostie, Bridgton, 51:27 1314. Eric Harmon, Bridgton, 51:28 1321. Tiffany Bailey, Fryeburg, 51:40 1326. Kensi Varney, Bridgton, 51:59 1342. Britta Chalmers, Bridgton, 52:35 1347. Sandra Iacozili, Fryeburg, 52:41 1348. Paxton Iacozili, Fryeburg, 52:41 1354. Marcia Uhl, Bridgton, 52:55 1355. Edward Hamaty, Bridgton, 52:55 1366. Ginny Hamaty, Bridgton, 53:24 1369. Ian Desjarlais, Bridgton, 53:45

1376. Nash Izaryk, N. Bridgton, 53:56 1381. Allison Sands, Harrison, 54:06 1382. Lily Toohey, Denmark, 54:07 1386. Manny Tucker, N. Bridgton, 54:11 1389. Kate Tucker, N. Bridgton, 54:15 1390. Roger Lowell, Bridgton, 54:20 1416. Cecelia Maher, Bridgton, 55:31 1418. Carol Blakeney, Bridgton, 55:36 1419. William O’Connor, Bridgton, 55:38 1423. Lila Lowell, Sweden, 55:47 1424. Claire Lowell, Sweden, 55:48 1441. Shauna Smith, Naples, 56:39 1442. Echo Lowell, Sweden, 56:40 1443. Laura Varney, Bridgton, 56:42 1444. Wes Sands, Harrison, 56:44 1451. Anita Field, Sebago, 56:57 1454. Lisa Myers, Naples, 56:58 1456. Will Rhys, Bridgton, 57:03 1485. Donna Small, Bridgton, 58:50 1486. Daniel Goldberg, Bridgton, 58:51 1491. Stephen Richard, Bridgton, 58:57 1492. Jessi Lane, Bridgton, 58:58 1495. Sandra Stevenson, Bridgton, 59:12 1499. Sadie Severson, Bridgton, 59:43 1521. Wendy Elsasser, Harrison, 1:00.58 1551. Joe Balchunas, Sebago, 1:02.25 1555. Jessie Toohey, Denmark, 1:02.36 1556. Peter Toohey, Denmark, 1:02.36 1575. Holly Fitch, Naples, 1:03.44 1583. Carrye Castleman-Ross, Bridgton, 1:04.27 1591. John Fontana, Naples, 1:04.48 1599. Jennifer Thurlow, Fryeburg, 1:04.58 1602. Leslie Kutasi, Bridgton, 1:05.05

1604. Jack Benoit, Harrison, 1:05.08 1605. Ullisa Benoit, Harrison, 1:05.08 1606. Jessica Hunt, Bridgton, 1:05.09 1607. Ellery Hunt, Bridgton, 1:05.10 1610. Jennifer O’Connor, Bridgton, 1:05.12 1669. Sarah Depoian, Harrison, 1:07.49 1673. Zoe Plummer, Bridgton, 1:07.56 1683. Diane Miller, Bridgton, 1:08.22 1695. Mary Hubka, Bridgton, 1:09.00 1696. Rachel Hubka, Bridgton, 1:09.03 1706. Cameron Plummer, Bridgton, 1:09.40 1711. Jeffrey Killer, Bridgton, 1:10.07 1712. Amanda Killer, Bridgton, 1:10.08 1713. Aurora Killer, Bridgton, 1:10.08 1715. Stephanie Rigolot, Bridgton, 1:10.16 1718. Jane McGowan, Bridgton, 1:10.43 1749. Rebecca Muise, Bridgton, 1:13.29 1750. Kayla Throgmorton, Bridgton, 1:13.30 1762. Gay Main, Bridgton, 1:14.34 1777. Eloise Blanchard, Bridgton, 1:15.55 1796. Roseana Richards, Bridgton, 1:17.06 1804. Patrick Redding, Bridgton, 1:17.48 1805. Stephanie Redding, Bridgton, 1:17.48 1818. Gordon Blanchard, Bridgton, 1:19.13 1829. Jameson McGowan, Bridgton, 1:20.22 1854. Kathy Larkin, Bridgton, 1:23.18 1855. Betty Hayes, Bridgton, 1:23.20 1860. Maeve McGowan, Bridgton, 1:23.45 1861. Leslie Hayes, Bridgton, 1:23.48 1879. Barbara Purcell, Bridgton, 1:29.43 1880. Elizabeth Hanley, Bridgton, 1:29.48 1883. Stevie Dennison, Harrison, 1:30.23 More photos at bridgton.com

HEADING DOWN THE HOME STRETCH on Main Street were (top, left) Jeremy Cox of Silver Lake, N.H.; right, Matthew Hoffman of Naples. (Rivet Photos)

News.

Tops in their age categories

STOP 4 ON THE FOURTH AGE GROUP FINISHERS

Female, Ages 8 and Under

1. Charlotte Brooks, 8, Beverly, MA, 34:55

2. Riley Morin, 8, Bend, OR, 35:50

3. Emma Avoine, 8, CA, 40:52

4. Riley Forman, 8, Massapequa, NY, 41:50

5. Olive Osborne, 8, WA, 42:47 Male, Ages 8 and Under

1. Derek Zaretsky, 8, NY, 28:44

2. Tucker Chase, 8, Raymond, 32:21

3. Ethan Stark, 8, MA, 33:55

4. Rye Spaulding, 8, CO, 34:03

5. Oliver Godfrey, 8, CT, 36:07 Female, Ages 9 to 11

1. Elizabeth Dietz, 11, Louisville, KY, 29:48

2. Ruby Frears, 11, NY, 36:23

3. Isobel Bates, 11, Falmouth, 37:07

4. Lily Burky, 9, UT, 37:27

5. Aria Vernon, 10, AZ, 37:28 Male, Ages 9 to 11

1. Carson Jones, 9, MA, 31:12

2. Sawyer Severson, 10, Bridgton, 31:24

3. Emerson Stefano, 11, Lovell, 31:30

4. Rylan Durocher, 11, GA, 31:46

5. Lincoln Jones, 10, MA, 31:57 Female, Ages 12 to 15

1. Alexa Caspe, 14, NY, 29:57

2. Madeline Cheung, 13, NY, 30:15

3. Isabella Vassoler, 15, Raymond, 31:16

4. Sayler Sammet, 15, WA, 31:20

5. Grace McGlinchey, 14, MA, 32:55 Male, Ages 12 to 15

1. Nathan Mack, 15, 25:24

2. Xander Hafford, 14, MA, 25:42

3. Theo Mine, 15, Fano, IT, 26:11

4. Christopher Salmon Jr., 15, S. Portland, 26:22

5. Evan McCumber, 15, FL, 26:22 Female, Ages 16 to 18

1. Amy Rein, 18, MO, 27:43

2. Abigail Roberts, 18, Casco, 28:14

3. Kaitlin Mersereau, 18, NC, 31:34

4. Honey Fields, 18, MA, 31:35

5. Emma Cote, 16, CT, 31:39 Male, Ages 16 to 18

1. Turner Crockett, 17, OR, 21:47

2. Aidan Roberts, 17, Casco, 23:00

3. Cade Potts, 16, North Yarmouth, 23:28

4. Wyatt Lake, 16, NJ, 24:15

5. Thomas Fogarty, 17, MA, 24:42 Female, Ages 19 to 24

1. Nick Iskenderian, 24, MA, 25:20

2. Megan Fecteau, 24, Portland, 26:52

3. Jaime Cermano, 24, WI, 27:50

4. Jordan Bell, 20, Kents Hill, 28:41

5. Kelsey Olen, 24, MA, 29:36

Male, Ages 19 to 24

1. Sebastian Bohn, 20, CA, 23:06

2. James Cook, 21, NJ, 23:22

3. Jake Hooper, 20, PA, 23:37

4. Henry Osborn, 24, MA, 24:01

5. Kyle Joyce, 20, MA, 25:10

Female, Ages 25 to 29

1. Laura Pulito, 29, Bridgton, 26:06

2. Elisa Smith, 28, MA, 31:05

3. Allie Queller, 25, US, 31:20

4. Frances Orenic, 25, IL, 31:57

5. Abbie Hopkins, 25, MA, 32:52

Male, Ages 25 to 29

1. Christopher Dunn, 29, Kennebunk, 23:51

2. Hayden Jones, 26, Scarborough, 24:22

3. Griffin Stockford, 28, Bowdoinham, 25:26

4. David Ouellette, 29, Gray, 25:35

5. Colin Jones, 27, Scarborough, 25:56

Female, Ages 30 to 34

1. Cait Bourgault, 34, Norway, 25:25

2. Sarah Baker, 33, Portland, 26:48

3. Samantha Dole, 30, Norway, 29:44

4. Christina Korney, 34, MA, 30:12

5. Kimberly Chase, 34, Raymond, 30:58

Male, Ages 30 to 34

1. Romayn Richards, 30, Brunswick, 22:01

2. Justin Lipana, 33, Westbrook, 23:56

3. Gavin Kuns, 33, NH, 26:40

4. Evan Connors, 34, Bridgton, 26:55

5. Nate Burke, 34, Gray, 28:16

Female, Ages 35 to 39

1. Samantha Arak, 38, MA, 25:28

2. Rachel Reardon, 37, S. Portland, 27:46

3. Lauren Ludka, 35, FL, 28:58

4. Annie Ebert, 36, MA, 29:49

5. Lindsay Francois, 35, Gotham, 31:35

Male, Ages 35 to 39

1. Chris Harmon, 36, Westbrook, 22:26

2. Scott McLean, 35, MA, 22:50

3. Sam Brown, 38, NH, 24:24

4. Neil Titchener, 37, NH, 25:27

5. Kent Goodrow, 38, Gorham, 26:30

Female, Ages 40 to 44

1. Kira Freytag, 42, MA, 27:17

2. Laura Battles, 42, MA, 29:34

3. Pam Forman, 40, NY, 29:59

4. Sara Bradley, 44, Waterford, 30:25

5. Elizabeth Blaney, 41, CT, 31:17

Male, Ages 40 to 44

1. Travis Brennan, 43, Portland, 23:32

2. Tim Morin, 41, OR, 24:08

3. Christian Bassett, 41, Casco, 25:29

4. Robert Abendrot, 41, MA, 27:01

5. Jared Connell, 42, MA, 27:30

Female, Ages 45 to 49

1. Deborah Smrcina, 48, MA, 27:42

2. Marissa Trudeau, 46, E. Waterboro, 29:06

3. Carrie-Anne Dedeo, 46, MA, 29:40

4. Rebecca Weston, 46, Bridgton, 30:08

5. Lisa McAllister, 46, ME, 31:16

Male, Ages 45 to 49

1. Dave Sheldrick, 49, Sebago, 26:29

2. Greg Pagnini, 46, MA, 26:48

3. Heath Roberts, 45, Casco, 28:10

4. Brent Gilliam, 45, NC, 29:40

5. Scott Severson, 45, Bridgton, 31:27

Female, Ages 50 to 54

1. Mary Pardi, 54, Falmouth, 25:35

2. Natasha Aube, 50, Naples, 29:15

3. Sophie Adamson, 52, NC, 30:07

4. Laura Bergeron, 52, Yarmouth, 32:30

5. Courtney Brown, 54, MA, 34:18

Male, Ages 50 to 54

1. Eric Darling, 51, VT, 24:18

2. David Krall, 54, MA, 24:32

3. Kyle Rhoads, 54, Windham, 25:56

4. Garth Altenbur, 54, Cape Elizabeth, 25:58

5. Sean Libbey, 50, MA, 27:27

Female, Ages 55 to 59

1. Sarah Pribram, 56, VT, 27:17

2. Tammy Slusser, 59, PA, 28:36

3. Tami Celso, 57, NH, 31:12

4. Tara Bennett, 55, MA, 31:13

5. Kate Gilmore, 57, MA, 34:47

Male, Ages 55 to 59

1. Sean Livingston, 55, RI, 22:09

2. Paul Horler, 58, MA, 25:27

3. Lyon Osborn, 59, MA, 28:01

4. David Brooks, 57, MA, 28:05

5. Timothy Ramsey, 59, MA, 28:21

Female, Ages 60 to 64

1. Deborah Sakr, 61, MA, 31:37

2. Lisa Hopkins, 60, MA, 38:01

3. Elizabeth Stockwood, 63, Eliot, 38:06

4. Elizabeth Shurland, 60, MA, 38:26

5. Nancy Stockford, 64, MA, 38:28

Male, Ages 60 to 64

1. Martin Feeney, 61, MA, 27:34

2. Arno Bommer, 64, TX, 27:38

3. James Bickford, 60, Limington, 28:17

4. Ken Ross, 62, Harrison, 28:45

5. Kenneth Johnson, 60, OH, 29:17

Female, Ages 65 to 69

1. Lorraine McPhillips, 69, NH, 34:14

2. Cynthia Dawson, 66, MA, 37:03

3. Patricia Brown, 68, Hartford, 38:06

4. Amy Sparkman, 66, CT, 40:39

5. Ann Klein, 67, MA, 41:10

Male, Ages 65 to 69

1. Kyle Conforte, 67, Bridgton, 28:06

2. Floyd Lavery, 67, Sebago, 29:12

3. Alan Beaulieu, 66, Harrison, 32:39

4. Larry Wold, 65, Freeport, 32:42

5. Kim Sheffield, 69, MA, 35:34

DIVISION

STARTING LINE SELFIE taken by Celtics fan Michael Clarke, a recent Lake Region High School graduate, who is with former track teammate Aidan Roberts (left). Second-place finisher Ian Denis of Lovell looks on. Wearing his Uncle Sam outfit is Sean Beacham of Bridgton (#993). (Rivet Photos)

Continuations

Highlands weekly chip shots

(Continued from Page 6A)

In Saturday “Sweeps” action, Ken “The Commish” Mushrow weathered some late raindrops to card a Low Gross best 78. John “The Gymnast” Roberge vaulted himself to the Low Net victory despite a poor score from the “Russian judge” on his tumble and dismount from the 14th tee-box. Wayne Kuvaja and Nick “Kerouac” Stuart earned Team Gross. Jim “Seatbelt” Thombs and Ken Mushrow took Low Net. Mushrow completed the trifecta with a Quota points win. Wayne Kuvaja captured NTP #8. On Sunday morning, Whit “Cracker” Lesure made

a birdie on #18 to shoot 75 and edge out several competitors who came in at 76. One of those was Ken Mushrow who won Low Net. Jim Macklin and Whit Lesure combined to shoot a Team Best Gross 151. Russ Sweet and Ken Mushrow paired off for the Team Net win. Mushrow completed his

big weekend by snatching the “naming rights” to the Quota plaque from previous owner John Roberge. Jim “Seatbelt” Thombs claimed NTP #2 in addition to previously filed insurance grievances. Upcoming is the 1st ever Women’s President Cup Tournament, as well as the Annual Two-Ball

Bridgton Police Department

(Continued from Page 5A)

man “yelling” on Main Street. Police located the individual, who was cooperative. He was issued a verbal warning for disorderly conduct.

7:50 p.m. Suspicious vehicle at Highland Lake boat launch.

7:57 p.m. Agency assist on North Bridgton Road.

10:39 p.m. Police assisted United Ambulance personnel and the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office with a subject experiencing a medical emergency on Main Street.

11:58 p.m. BPD assisted an Oxford County deputy with a call on Schrader Drive.

In a continuing effort to keep citizens, visitors to the area and other motorists safe, the Bridgton Police Department will be conducting an OUI (operating under the influence) checkpoint on Friday, July 12.

The Bridgton Police Department will be out in force on Portland Road (Route 302) around Hayes Ace Hardware.

“We ask that motorist use extra caution in this area as traffic will be slowed and Law Enforcement Officer will be out on foot,” BPD said. “Thank you, have a great and safe summer.”

Friday, July 5

8:05 p.m. Harassment complaint on Main Street.

Saturday, July 6

4:12 p.m. Welfare check; no issues found.

5:37 p.m. Citizen assist (lock out) on Highland Road.

6:59 p.m. Police checked a report of an intoxicated individual on Main Street. Subject located, and officers followed the man on foot to make sure he returned home safely.

8:40 p.m. A report was received of a “vehicle all over the road” on North High Street. Police located and stopped the vehicle. A female driver “admitted to being distracted by her Bluetooth device and two dogs in the vehicle.” Police issued a warning.

11:02 p.m. Report received regarding a vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed and then the driver shutting

the vehicle’s lights off and proceeding down an unmarked trail. Police checked the area, but was unable to locate the vehicle.

11:17 p.m. Motor vehicle crash at the intersection of Weymouth Road and Kansas Road.

Sunday, July 7

1:35 a.m. A male was issued a summons for refusing to provide information or identifying himself following a motor vehicle stop on Main Street. Police say the driver was traveling at a high rate of speed, and was “uncooperative.”

3:55 p.m. Police checked an alarm sounding at a Maple Street residence.

8:13 p.m. Citizen assist on Burnham Road.

• During this reporting period, Bridgton Police responded to four alarms and conducted 25 property checks.

Christmas in July Boat Parade

NAPLES — Join the Sebago Lakes Region Chamber of Commerce for the 5th Annual Christmas in July Boat Parade in Naples on Saturday, July 20 (line up starts at 8 p.m. on Long Lake).

Tournament contested over two days with changing formats including the always treacherous “Alternate Shot” to finish up. That just may get you in the mood for The Thirsty Brothers who return to BHCC on Saturday, July 20 at 5 p.m. Tickets are still available. In fact, it’s free, but likely to be a standingroom only crowd for these big-stage veterans. If golf isn’t in your plans, I suggest the Chianti Restaurant in Naples for some authentic Italian cuisine. I’m hearing great things from trusted “critics” (golfing buddies) and headed there with visiting family (Leigh, Ryan, and kids…) this week.

Division winners

(Continued from Page 9A)

Female, Ages 70 to 74

1. Anne Haglof, 70, MA, 37:10

2. Margaritt McNulty, 72, Windham, 39:27

3. Sue Dubois, 72, Lewiston, 40:35

4. Carole Forman, 70, NY, 43:33

5. Betsy Alden, 70, MA, 48:04

Male, Ages 70 to 74

1. John Canora, 72, CT, 32:08

2. Denis Dubois, 73, Lewiston, 35:53

3. Jack Chandler, 71, Bridgton, 38:43

4. Allen Hayes, 70, Bridgton, 39:02

5. Dana Flanders, 70, NC, 39:33

Female, Ages 75 to 79

1. April Shuman, 75, CT, 41:26

2. Sharon George, 76, AL, 53:24

3. Irene Jacintho, 75, NH, 58:54

4. Kathleen Blanchard, 75, FL, 1:08.18

5. Mary Hubka, 76, Bridgton, 1:09.00

Male, Ages 75 to 79

1. Ted McKnight, 79, VT, 34:18

2. Bill Reilly, 76, Brownfield, 34:34

3. John Blanchard, 77, FL, 45:54

4. Roger Lowell, 76, Bridgton, 54:20

5. Will Rhys, 79, Bridgton, 57:03

Female, Ages 80 and Over

1. Susan Cohen, 80, MA, 1:05.07

Male, Ages 80 and Over

1. Ronald Kmiec, 81, MA, 48:02

2. Robert Randall, 87, Sanford, 52:42

3. Richard Neal, 81, MA, 59:02

4. Ed Talbot, 81, MA, 1:00.55

5. Bill Warren, 87, Gorham, 1:10.41

See full parade route map. Register and decorate your boat and you could win awesome prizes from sponsors. Your boat must be registered to be eligible for prizes. Detailed parade information will be e-mailed to you approximately one week before the event. FMI: Call the Sebago Lakes Region Chamber at 207-892-8265. Don’t have a boat? Find a spot on the Naples Causeway (or along the shore of the parade route) to view the parade. Be sure to patron one of the generous participating businesses!

Big Band Jazz coming to Norway

NORWAY — The Bridgton Jazz will perform at the Second Congregational Church, 205 Main Street in Norway, from 2 to 4 p.m. on Sunday, July 28.

The public is invited to delight in the sights and sounds of big band jazz presented by these extremely talented musicians from western Maine and eastern New Hampshire.

The members are Claudia Keller and Molly O’Connell on alto saxophone; Wendi Porter and Pat Buchanan on tenor saxophone; Dan Siktberg on baritone saxophone; Stan Buchanan, Jim Morris, Kenyon King, Phoebe Payne and Quinn Barbin on trombone; Steve Morrissette, Barbara Siktberg, Jerry Emerson, Lars Vitala and Mike Costa on trumpet; and in the rhythm section, Stephanie Kendzeirski, keyboard; Tom Chandel, bass guitar; and Maylo Keller and Nick LaGassee, drums.

BRINGING JAZZ — Talented musicians making up Bridgton Jazz will perform in Norway on Sunday, July 28.

Please mark your calendars for this afternoon of great music! You really don’t want to miss it! A suggested donation is $10 for adults and $5 for students, but more will always accepted for these two wonderful organizations. Doors will open at 1:30 p.m. Seating is open, but limited to 235. Check out The Bridgton Jazz YouTube: https:// www.youtube.com/ watch?v=J6GlAO5fakU

Antique Militaria Show

The group also showcases a handful of vocalists who add to the group’s style and sound.

Wendi Porter, a band member, and Deb Ladner, a church member, collaborated over the past year to present this fundraising concert at the Norway church. Proceeds from the concert will equally benefit The Bridgton Jazz and the church-kitchen project. After a flood three years ago, the church has been raising funds to renovate/update their 60-year-old kitchen. The kitchen is used for many church events, not the least of these is the very successful monthly drive-thru free supper for the community.

SEBAGO — A rare chance to see items from the personal collection of Walter Norris, renowned expert in historic firearms and militaria, will be presented by the Sebago Historical Society on Saturday, July 13, from 2 to 5 p.m. at the Potter Gym, 406 Bridgton Road in Sebago. Norris, past president of the New Hampshire Arm Collectors, Inc. for over 20 years and organizer of many gun shows, has an extensive collection amassed over 65 years. Several tables of his special items will be

on display. He will be on hand to discuss and answer questions on any of them. If you have items of your own you would like to know more about, bring them to the show. Norris, assisted by local appraiser Glenn Grant, will give evaluations and appraisals for $5 per item, to benefit the Sebago Historical Society. Admission to the event is $5 for adults. Children, who must be accompanied by an adult, will be admitted free.

GENUINE Civil War uniform coat and cap, part of the display at the Militaria Show this weekend in Sebago.

Country Living

July 11, 2024, The Bridgton News, Page 1B

Bridgton Rotary 25th Annual Duck Race a Success

The Bridgton-Lake Region Rotary Club held its 25th Annual Duck Race at the bridge on Stevens Brook at Main Street in Bridgton. The winners were: Isabell Homscheid, First Place, $500 Michael Richardson, Second Place, $250 Tom Wickstrom, Third Place, $100

“Thank you, everyone, who played with us. This is our second biggest annual fundraiser and makes a big difference in the amount of dollars we can invest in the community,” said Lisa Ryan, incoming Rotary Club president. “The Duck Race is more than a Rotary Event. It’s a community event in which many of the same people participate every year. We are most thankful to them. The community enthusiasm is contagious, bringing much joy to us Rotarians who are out selling tickets.”

In addition to its wonderful ticket buyers, Rotarians want to thank a scores of others who support Rotary’s effort.

Thank you to the Bridgton Public Works Department for their assistance opening the flow of water in the brook and supplying safety cones.

Thank you to Renys which every year allows Rotarians to sell tickets at their door and loans Rotarians shopping baskets to catch the ducks at the end of the race.

“When we offered to buy the baskets, the manager said, ‘no,’ I like to loan them to you and support you each year in this way. She’s very nice,” long-time Rotarian Dave Baker said.

“A big ‘thank you’ to Justin McIver and others at Music On Main for designating the Bridgton-Lake Region Rotary Club as one of the nonprofits which could exhibit at

their musical events. We sold a lot of ticket there and had a chance to spread the word about Rotary and the Duck Race,” remarked Past President Aaron Hagan. “The Duck Race has been around strong for 25 years, and it wouldn’t be the event it is without the whole community getting involved to make it such an exciting day. Thank you, everyone.”

Rotary is a global network of 1.4 million neighbors, friends, leaders, and problem-solvers who see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change – across the globe, in our communities, and in ourselves. Their motto is Service Above Self.

For more information about the Bridgton-Lake Region Rotary Club, check out its website at https://lakeregionrotary.com or Facebook Page. Otherwise, e-mail them at LakeRegionRotary@gmail.com.

Chewonki Program at BPL

Your Library Summer Reading Challenge is underway at the Bridgton Public Library (BPL), so swing by and pick up your adventure books and reading log.

Any books you read and record on your reading log will earn tickets toward the Summer Raffle. BPL will draw the winners for the youth and adult prizes in August.

BPL kicked off the summer reading adventure with a presentation from the Chewonki Traveling Natural History Program, with Predators. Over 33 people attended the event, which was brought by the generosity of the Friends of the Bridgton Library.

Children and youth can still pick up their Summer Reading Packets in the Youth Services area.

Additionally, thanks to the generosity of the Friends of the Bridgton Library, BPL still has free kits containing 14 books for pre-kindergarten age children available for families to take home.

This funding from the Friends is possible because of the tremendous work that they put into their annual book sale. This year’s event is scheduled for Saturday, July 20, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Book Shed, located to the rear of the BPL parking lot. This event is on the same day as Art in the Park, so please plan to

BHS July Walk

The Bridgton Historical Society will offer a series of low-impact informational walks once a month at Narramissic Historic Farm and the Peabody-Fitch Woods in South Bridgton. BHS Board President and Loon Echo Land Trust Stewardship Manager, Jon Evans, will lead the walks. This month’s walk will be held Friday, July 19 at 9 a.m. For more information, please contact (207) 6473699.

spend some time exploring Main Street and getting some truly wonderful things.

The library has plenty of activities for little ones, with a Robotics Project bag to-go and a new STEAM activity available each week, thanks to the ingenuity and thoughtfulness of the BPL staff.

Please remember that the courtyard is always available with 24/7 WiFi and plenty of old-growth tree shade for even the hottest days. BPL has regular one-on-one

Technology Help every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday between 2 to 4 p.m. for those tricky questions on how to download things, how to send things from your phone, and how to print forms you may need. Appointments are available and drop-ins are welcome.

Please contact BPL at (207) 647-2472 or e-mail to bplreference@bridgton.lib.me.us with any questions or concerns, the library staff is always happy to help.

Happy Summer!

INTERESTING PREDATOR PROGRAM provided by the Chewonki Traveling Natural History Program recently at the Bridgton Public Library.

Waterford Summer Breakfasts

WATERFORD — The first Waterford Summer Breakfast of 2024 on July 4th was a resounding success. Over 325 diners and volunteers were served breakfast

at the Wilkins Community House in Waterford.

There will be three more breakfasts this summer on Wednesdays — July 17, July

this year included, in addition to the breakfast, a parade (perhaps the longest ever!), the Waterford Library Book Sale, Waterford Historical

Events and meetings scheduled at the Bridgton Community Center (15 Depot Street): Thursday, July 11

9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Veteran Services (by appointment only)

1 to 3 p.m., Painting Group, everyone welcome, ($5)

1:45 to 6 p.m., Video Gamers (free) Friday, July 12

6 to 8:30 a.m., Dan Crafted Art & Fitness Class ($)

12 p.m., Mahhjong (free)

2:30 to 4 p.m., Rotary Golf Committee Meeting Saturday, July 13

9 a.m. to 12 p.m., DAR Meeting

3 to 5 p.m., Sahaja Yoga Sunday, July 14

1 to 3 p.m., Bridgton Fiber Group, outside weather permitting

5 to 8:30 p.m., Bridgton Jazz practice Monday, July 15

10 to 11 a.m. Chair Yoga ($)

2 to 4 p.m., Cribbage, (free) Tuesday, July 16

6 to 8:30 a.m., Dan Fitness Crafted Art & Fitness Class ($)

10 a.m. to noon, Chickadee Quilters

12:30 to 4 p.m., Bridge Card Group ($, learn to play)

5:30 to 7:30 p.m., BCC Board Meeting Wednesday, July 17

6 to 8:30 a.m., Dan Fitness Crafted Art & Fitness Class ($)

12 to 1 p.m., Senior Lunch: Stuffed shells, garlic bread, tossed salad ($3)

1 to 4 p.m., Mahjongg (free)

5:30 to 7 p.m., Kayley Crafts, Dot Painting on Rocks ($) Thursday, July 18

1:45 to 6 p.m., Video Gamers (free)

6 to 9 p.m., Chickadee Quilters

WATERFORD SERVES over 300 breakfasts on July 4th at the Wilkins Community House.

31 and Aug. 14. All are from 7:30 to 10 a.m. The Wilkins Community House is on Plummer Hill in the Flat of Waterford, adjacent to the Congregational Church.

The breakfast consists of scrambled eggs, pancakes, bacon, sausage, muffins, donut holes, juice, coffee, tea, and real Maine maple syrup, sourced locally.

Begun 70 years ago, the Fourth of July celebration

Blood

This July, the American Red Cross continues to stress that blood and platelet donors are critically needed right now to support lifesaving transfusions this summer. Donors of all blood types are in demand,

Society open house at two local venues, the Waterford Farmers’ Market, and vendors in the Wilkins parking lot and on the green. The Book Sale will be available in the Wilkins House basement during future breakfasts and vendors will also be available. Proceeds from the breakfast help with the upkeep of the Wilkins Community House.

Harrison Library speaker

PEGGY DUBOIS will discuss her recent novel at Harrison Village Library.

HARRISON — Peggy DeBlois will discuss her recent novel, The Toll Road North, on Wednesday, July 17 at 6:30 p.m. at Harrison Village Library. The Toll Road North follows Dee, a middle-aged woman who left her hometown behind long ago and is brought, suddenly and violently, back to the past when visiting a prestigious Maine college with her teenage son. In the aftermath of the event, Dee begins to uncover the answers to questions she never dared ask as a child. As the reader follows Dee, her parents, and their friends, “The Toll Road North” explores the universal truth that we create our adult persona, and often, no one in our present world really understands where we came from. Peggy DeBlois grew up in Lewiston, and is a proud graduate of Bowdoin College. She enjoyed careers in journalism, marketing, and teaching prior to devoting her time to writing. She continues to be inspired by the gritty beauty in her hometown. This program is free and open to the public. Copies of the book will be available for purchase. For more information, please contact the library at (207) 5832970.

BPL Book Sale

It’s an annual tradition not to be missed! Browse through hundreds of gently used hardcover and paperback books at the Friends of the Bridgton Public Library’s Big Summer Book Sale on Saturday, July 20 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

There is something for everyone — children’s books, adult fiction, history, science, mystery, art, cooking, self-help, and much more. Most books cost $2. “Fill a Bag with Books” for $5 from 1:30 to 2 p.m. Cash or checks accepted.

Where: In the parking lot behind the library (1 Church Street, Bridgton).

Rain date: Sunday, July 21, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

For more information, call 207-647-2472 or visit www.bridgtonlibrary.org.

All proceeds support the programs and services of the Bridgton Public Library.

DON’T MISS THE FRIENDS of the Bridgton Public Library’s Big Summer Book Sale on Saturday, 7/20!

donations are needed DONATIONS, Page 2B

especially those with type O blood and donors giving platelets. Every donation counts in the mission to keep blood products stocked for patients, including those facing lifethreatening situations. More

than a quarter of all blood products each year are used in critical care and emergency room cases, highlighting the importance of generous blood and platelet donors. Be a force for good. Book a time to give blood or platelets by visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS or by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App. Upcoming blood donation opportunities July 11-31:

NEW ROTARIAN Patti Burns (left) and long-time Rotarian Dave Barker (right) catch the winners.

Country Living

No-Bake Greek Yogurt Pie

Topped with Berries

By Nancy Tripp Bridgton Farmers’ Market

One of my favorite simple desserts

is a yogurt pie topped with fresh fruit.

I use about a quart of my favorite cream top yogurt from High View Farm and strain it through a very fine strainer or a colander lined with muslin cheesecloth. Let the yogurt sit over a bowl overnight or for around 4 to 6 hours to allow the liquid to drain out of the yogurt. This drains the whey from the yogurt and creates a thicker yogurt that I sweeten very slightly with a teaspoon of vanilla or maple syrup, which I add until I love the sweetness. I like to crunch up graham crackers with a few tablespoons of melted butter to make a graham cracker crust, or pick one up at the store for an even easier dessert.

Fill your pie crust with sweetened yogurt and top with your favorite seasonal fresh fruit. This week, it is raspberries, because the “razzle dazzle berries” are here!

In case you aren’t comfortable with my “un-recipe” recipe (I do get it), here is a recipe for you to follow. It too is very simple, involves one step of cooking for a minute or two, but is a no-bake yogurt pie topped with seasonal fresh fruit for these tremendously hot and humid summer days.

Enjoy!

No-Bake Greek Yogurt Pie Topped with Berries

Ingredients

Cookie Base

1 1/2 cups graham cracker / cookie or even digestive cookie crumbs (180 grams)

¼ cup butter melted (56 grams)

Yogurt Filling 5 tablespoons milk (whole or 2%)*(75 grams)

1 tablespoon gelatine

1 cup cream whole, heavy or whipping cream (230 grams)

2 cups any flavor Greek yogurt (remove from fridge 30-45 minutes before using)* (480 grams)

2 tablespoons powdered/icing sugar** (I prefer to use a teaspoon of vanilla or flavor with maple sugar to taste.)

*If you use plain Greek yogurt then stir 1 teaspoon of vanilla into the yogurt. You can also substitute with regular yogurt. If you do then use

Donations

(Continued from Page 1B)

July 17, 12 to 5 p.m., North Windham Veterans Center, 35 Veterans Memorial Drive.

July 22, 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Poland Town Hall, 1223 Maine Street, Rt. 26.

July 23, 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., David & Doris Hastings Community Center, 59 Recreation Drive, Fryeburg.

July 31, 12 to 5 p.m., United Parish Congregational Church of Harrison and North Bridgton, 77 Main Street, Harrison.

Is hosting well known, local chef, FRANCO MERCED for an Italian Dinner Night. Wed July 17, 2024

Serving 5:30pm – 7:30pm Dinner will be sit-down buffet-style w/dessert.

*Tickets $18.00 at the door or advance purchase at the Legion Lounge. Seating is limited, purchase in advance is recommended.

Don’t miss this special evening with Franco!

2 tablespoons of milk and 2 tablespoons of cream instead of 5 tablespoons of milk.

**Depending on how sweet your yogurt is you may want to increase or decrease the sugar. You can always taste it to see.

Instructions

Cookie Base

Mix graham cracker or cookie crumbs and melted butter, press down on the bottom of a 7 to 8-inch (17 – 20 centimeters) springform cake pan (or line a regular cake pan with plastic wrap). Place in the refrigerator.

Yogurt Filling In a medium bowl, beat cream until thick peaks form.

In a small pot add the milk, sprinkle the gelatine on top, let stand for one minute, then place the pot on low heat and heat just until the gelatine has dissolved, stirring for approximately 1 minute, do not boil, then immediately remove from heat. In a medium bowl, whisk the Greek yogurt and sugar then stir in the gelatine.

Fold the Greek yogurt mixture into the whipped cream mixture and combine well. Remove the cookie base from the fridge, pour the cream mixture on top, smooth the top with a spatula. Refrigerate at least 6 hours or better overnight. Top with fresh fruit before serving.

Enjoy!

The Yogurt pie should be stored covered in the fridge, it will last for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Find Us: The Bridgton Farmers’ Market is outside on the Green behind Renys, on Depot Street on Saturdays now through Oct. 26 from 8 a.m. to noon.

BFM has joined Senior Farm Shares this year. Stop at the Info Booth to learn more about the program and sign up if you are eligible.

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

Please keep your dog on a short leash and under control.

BFM accepts credit cards and EBT. See you there!

Denmark Library

DENMARK — Maine author Jennifer Comeau will read her newly released children’s book, The Inside of ME, on Wednesday, July 17 at 10:30 a.m. at the Denmark Library

“The Inside of ME” is a profound reminder of what happens on the inside when we go outside. Nine special, natural places in Maine are rendered on the pages with descriptions and activities in the back.

Jennifer will be joined by the local illustrator of the book Suze Linden.

“Because we can’t cover all of this beautiful state in one book, this will be a series of three books, honoring the natural glory of these lands now known as Maine,” says Comeau, who acknowledges and respects the original people — past, present and future — whose sovereignty was never fairly ceded.

Beloved national bestselling wildlife author, Sy Montgomery says, The Inside of ME is an irresistible and inclusive invitation: to skip, roll, or run to the sea, to the pond, to the woods — where magic awaits! Recommendations for specific spots in Maine to visit, and fun activities to do there, guarantee unforgettable encounters with nature—moments that can change a kid’s life. Brava!”

The reading will be followed by nature activities for children. Everyone is welcome!

Join the Denmark Library for more summer fun:

• DPL is celebrating Smokey the Bear’s 80th Birthday and all things to do with being outside.

• Grab a journal, to write, draw or record the books you have read!

• Kids win free prizes: movie tickets to Smitty’s Cinema and hockey tickets to Maine Mariners games.

Stay tuned for more!

The Denmark Public Library is located at 121 East Main St., Denmark, 207-452-2200.

Don’t Miss it!

Saturday, 7/20 9-2 pm (Rain date: Sunday, 7/21 9-2 pm) In the parking lot behind the library at 1 Church St.

A wide range of affordable books for children and adults. Fiction and non-fiction; Hardcover & paperback. Most books cost $2. “Fill a Bag” for $5 from 1:30 -2. Cash or check.

Proceeds to benefit the Bridgton Public Library. For more information: Call 207-647-2472 or visit bridgtonlibrary.org

Arts & Entertainment

SLLMF first concert July 16th

HARRISON — Sebago-Long Lake Music Festival is proud to announce the first concert of its 52nd season to be performed at Deertrees Theatre in Harrison on Tuesday, July 16, at 7:30 p.m.

The first concert will be proceeded by an Instrument Zoo at Bear Mountain Inn + Barn in Waterford on Sunday, July 14, at 3 p.m. designed to appeal to children and introduce them to a variety of instruments.

And, on Monday, July 15, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., an Open Rehearsal will be held at Deertrees Theatre. Folks are welcome to come for 5 minutes or the full two hours. Both the Instrument Zoo and the Open Rehearsal are free and open to the public.

The first formal concert on July 16 will feature:

DEVIENNE: Quartet for Bassoon and Strings in G Minor, Op. 73, No. 3

POULENC: Sextet for Piano and Winds

FAURÉ: Piano Quartet No. 1 in C Minor, Op. 15

Artists performing include: Laura Gilbert, flute; Stephen Taylor, oboe; Benjamin Fingland, clarinet; William Purvis, horn; Adrian Morejon, bassoon; Gabriela Diaz, violin; Jonathan Bagg, viola; Thomas Kraines, cello; and Mihae Lee, piano.

“We want to remind audiences, that those under 21 years of age are admitted to all our concerts at Deertrees free of charge,” remarked Treasurer Lee Bearse of the SLLMF Board of Trustees. “As a former music teacher myself, I am an advocate for keeping music accessible to young people. We encourage our audience members to bring their children and grandchildren to the Instrument Zoo as well as to our performances at Deertrees.”

For the past several years, SLLMF has had young Maine artists performing on the lawn before the concerts while audience members enjoy a picnic supper. This year, for the first time, piano teacher Kim Bean will have several of her students performing.

Music Without Borders at Hayloft

The 18th Music Without Borders International Piano Festival takes place this Sunday, July 14 at 3 p.m. at The HAYLOFT at Dragonfly Barn (95 Sanborns Grove) in Bridgton.

This event is free.

(Suggested donation of $10.)

Music without Borders International Piano Festival returns for its 18th season in partnership with Gould Academy. Artistic Director Tamara Poddubnaya will again welcome young pianists from the United States, Canada, and Europe for this

period of intensive piano study.

Poddubnaya is a distinguished diplomate of the undergraduate and doctoral programs of the RimskyKorsakov State Conservatory in St. Petersburg and has performed to great acclaim in Europe and the United States. Much sought after as a master teacher, as well as juror at international piano competitions, she follows a busy schedule, teaching and performing in Europe and the United States, where she is Professor and Head of

the Piano Department at the Long Island Conservatory, Albertson, N.Y.

Festival participants represent a truly international group. Many of them are destined for careers as concert artists and teachers and have studied piano since childhood. Participants include Prof. Poddubnaya’s students and others who have met her at master classes and competitions in the United States and in Europe, or have been recommended to her by their teachers.

A unique feature of the

Bear Mountain Music

WATERFORD — This is a busy week at the Bear Mountain Music Hall (427 Waterford Road).

Thursday evening at 7 p.m. the Mollyockett Chorus returns to the summer concert series with their special brand of Barbershop music. The chorus was organized in 1996 and is a chapter of Harmony Inc., an international women’s barbershop organization. The chorus is under the direction of Simon Smith. Chorus

members come from Bethel, Casco, Bridgton, Raymond, Rumford, Windham, Bryant Pond, Auburn, Norway, Oxford, Hebron, and Stoneham. It’s going to be a fun night with lots of lively music! As always, there will be a reception following. Friday is the second ballroom dance of the summer hosted by Elizabeth Converse. Historically, in July, there was always a dance social in what’s now

the Music Hall. In honor of that, Bear Mountain Music Hall will be doing classic dances of the Waltz and the East Coast Swing for the beginner-friendly class. Join in for the dance class at 6 p.m. and stay for open dancing from 7 to 9 p.m. Dancers of all levels are welcome to do both. Snacks and cold drinks will be provided so we can dance the night away! $10 for the lesson, $10 for the open dancing. No partner or experience needed.

Bear Mountain Music Hall finishes with its monthly Song Circle at 3 p.m. on Sunday. Join a diverse group of local musicians as we share songs downstairs in the cafe.

Music without Borders festival is that all students have a daily lesson with Prof. Poddubnaya and a personal practice piano at which

SEBAGO-LONG LAKE MUSIC FESTIVAL’S first performance is July 16 at Deertrees Theater at 7:30 p.m.

“Alan Bean records all our concerts,” said Carol Madsen, vice president of the SLLMF Board of Trustees, “so both Alan and Kim will have the technical capability to set up students with keyboards, electricity, amplification and more to allow the young folks to shine. We are really looking forward to this collaboration as part of our interest in bringing young people to the arts and showcasing their talents.”

Sebago-Long Lake Music Festival will perform Tuesdays at 7:30 p.m. at Deertrees Theatre in Harrison between July 16 and Aug. 13. There is still time to purchase tickets, and a season ticket includes an invitation to post-concert receptions with the musicians. For more information about the Festival and to order tickets, go to https://sebagomusicfestival.org/concert-tickets-2024/. Tickets can also be purchased the evening of the concert at the box office.

Harvest Gold Plein Art Paint Out

CENTER LOVELL — Beginning at 10

a.m., local artist Kristen Dill will be setting up her easel in the beautiful gardens of Harvest Gold Gallery on Saturday, July 13. With wide splashes of color that are certain to bring energy and joy into any room, Dill’s paintings are a pleasant treat for the eyes!

After receiving a BA degree from the University of Southern Maine in 1978, Dill lived year-round in Maine for five years. Since then, she has travelled around the United States, living and working in any place that catches her eye. From Dallas to Memphis to Raleigh, Dill has set up her easel on sandy beaches and woody mountaintops alike to “capture the ephemeral quality of nature and make it a shared visual experience.” In the summer, Dill calls Moose Pond in Bridgton home.

Kristen’s accolades are many, and she has accomplished much with her colorful work. Her paintings have been used in the Disney feature film “Teen Spirit,” and a watercolor of hers has been used in an episode of the popular daytime drama, “One Tree Hill.” Her work has also been featured in the American Abstract Watercolor Magazine, and the lengthy article praised Dill for her ability to paint the fine impressionistic line between realistic and abstract.

Dill’s style is brilliant, colorful, and painterly. She begins her work by focusing mainly on organic shapes, and then uses layer upon layer of transparent oil paint to build up the vibrancy and intensity of color that is so characteristic of her work. After struggling for years with chronic illness, Dill says that she finds the creative process of sketching and painting regenerative.

“I paint in response either to a visual stimuli, such as a unique color or shape, or to an emotion. The process of painting develops and crystallizes my own insights,” she said.

Painting both beautifully arranged stills along with light and airy landscapes, Dill uses her brush to its fullest extent.

Stop by Harvest Gold Gallery and see some of Kristen Dill’s work for yourself! The Gallery is located at 1082 Main Street, in Center Lovell, just past the Center Lovell Market. For more information on Dill, the Plein Air Paint Out, or Harvest Gold Gallery, call (207) 925-6502 or check out the gallery’s website at harvestgold-

ANTJE DUVEKOT

June 22, 2024, 7:30 pm

Antje Duvekot recently unveiled her fifth studio album, “ West”.

Antje Duvekot recently unveiled her fifth studio album, “ West”.

Yet another testament to the powerhouse that is Antje Duvekot, New Wild West” is a sonic and lyrical knockout that marks a newly blazed trail in Duvekot’s songwriting career, celebrating the mid-life transition into a greater sense of self.

Yet another testament to the powerhouse that is Antje Duvekot, New Wild West” is a sonic and lyrical knockout that marks a newly blazed trail in Duvekot’s songwriting career, celebrating the mid-life transition into a greater sense of self.

Yet another testament to the powerhouse that is Antje Duvekot, New Wild West” is a sonic and lyrical knockout that marks a newly blazed trail in Duvekot’s songwriting career, celebrating the mid-life transition into a greater sense of self.

Sam is a full time troubadour, playing over 150 shows a year across the country, including the MainStage at the Kerrville Folk Festival, the Dripping Springs Songwriter’s Festival, and as one of the Most Wanted to Return” artists in the 2023 Falcon Ridge Folk Festival.

Wherever he is performing, Sam builds an intimate, easy connection with the listener,

Recorded by

Recorded by her friend, Mark Erelli, it is considered by some to be her best in her 20plus year career.

Recorded by her friend, Mark Erelli, it is considered by some to be her best in her 20plus year career.

Tickets $35.00 AVAILABLE ONLINE AT: www.hayloftatdragonfly.com

PLEIN AIR PAINT OUT featuring Kristen Dill this Saturday, July 13 starting at 10 a.m. at Harvest Gold Gallery, 1082 Main Street, Center Lovell.

95 Sanborns Grove Road, Bridgton, ME

ANTJE DUVEKOT

SAM ROBBINS

Page 4B, The Bridgton News, July 11, 2024

Denmark Arts

DENMARK — Next up at the Denmark Arts Center is music with Black Cat Road, the magic of magician Peter Boie, along with Author Betty Culley and the Musical Theater Camp.

Friday, July 19, 7 p.m., Black Cat Road is back, doing what they do best … rocking the house down or the park. If you believe in black cats, walk under ladders, or stronger, Voodoo, then you’re good at Black Cat Road. Swamp rock & blues, rootsy, funk, and soul coming your way. Black Cat Road consists of Steve Bailey on guitar and vocals, Jessie Mae Hines, vocals and percussion, Kate Seavey, on bass and vocals, Don Reed on keys and percussion, and Chris Hartogh on drums. Order your tickets online www.denmarkarts.org/ events Saturday, July 20, 7 p.m., Magician Peter Boie. Combining original mind-blowing magic, and a heavy dose of humor is Peter’s secret to success and why it’s made him one of the top booked college acts around the country. Peter first became fascinated with magic at the age of 11 when he stumbled across a magic book at his local library. He now travels around the country performing his award-winning magic that will defy your reality. Peter’s show is about two things, astonishing magic, and having a good time; and he doesn’t skimp on either. The title “Magician for NonBelievers” is about being honest with his audience. Magic isn’t real… but Peter will make you believe it is for the length of his show.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. for a 7 p.m. performance. Please order your tickets online www.denmarkarts.org/events. Tickets are $15 for general audience Sunday, July 21, 5 p.m., Author Series with Betty Culley

Arts & Entertainment

and The Name She Gave Me Sunday. A heartbreakingly beautiful novel in verse about adoption, family, friendship, and love in all its many forms, perfect for fans of Robin Benway and Jandy Nelson, from the acclaimed author of Three Things I Know Are True

Rynn was born with a hole in her heart—literally. Although it was fixed long ago, she still feels an emptiness there when she wonders about her birth family. As her relationship with her adoptive mother fractures, Rynn finally decides she needs to know more about the rest of her family. This powerful story uncovers both beautiful and heartbreaking truths and explores how challenging, yet healing, family can be.

Author Series is a Pay-What-You-Can program and sponsored by Bridgton Books and created by a collaboration of Denmark Historical Society, Denmark Library and Denmark Arts Center and a generous community ANGEL who thought

Obituaries

Jane D. O’Rouke

DENMARK- Jane D.

O’Rourke (Paradis), 82, of Denmark, ME passed away at Stephens Memorial Hospital in Norway after suffering a stroke on the morning of July 2, 2024, surrounded by her loving daughters. Jane was born in Waterbury, CT on December 19,1941, the daughter of the late Raymond E. Paradis and Elizabeth A. Paradis (Butler).

She was a graduate of Crosby High School in Waterbury, CT, in 1959. Jane started her career at Howland-Hughes Department store and later worked for Metropolitan Life in the accounting departments, both located in Waterbury, CT. In later years, after raising her daughters, Jane worked in retail management in North Conway, NH and put herself through nursing school and became a CNA and LNA for the Carroll County Home and Healthcare in nearby NH where she traveled to homes and took compassionate care of the elderly.

Jane is survived by her three daughters, Malissa Miot (O’Rourke) and her fiancé Allen Ligon of Lancaster, MA; Suzanne Clisham (O’Rourke) and her husband Patrick Clisham, of Berlin, MA; Jocelyn O’Rourke-Shane and her husband Teddy Shane of Naples, ME. She leaves behind seven beloved grandchildren, Patrick Clisham, Aidan Clisham, Cameron Clisham, Owen Miot, Grace Miot, Cole Shane, and Nash Shane. Jane is predeceased by her companion of 32 years, Winston Perry. She was devoted to her recently deceased sister, Marie Meegan of Salem, MA and her nephews, Jeffrey Meegan and wife YuSze Meegan of Mercer Island, WA, Daniel Meegan and his wife Grace Meegan of Danvers, MA; Matthew Meegan of Boston, MA; Andrew Meegan and his wife Kristin Mielcarz-Meegan of Salem, MA and her great nieces Christine and Amelia and great nephew Owen. She leaves behind her former husband, father of her children, and friend, John O’Rourke of Naples, ME.

Jane was quick-witted and loved animals, especially dogs. She was an amazing cook, cake decorator, remarkable pie baker and always had more food at the dinner table for any friends or family who may show up. Jane enjoyed nature and the lake where she lived. She was fond of quilting, sewing, boating, snowmobiling with family and slalom water skiing in her earlier years. Jane had a passion for music and dancing. She later spent her time doing puzzles, crosswords, watching westerns, playing cards, and doing card tricks with her grandchildren.

Family and friends are invited to a time of visitation on Friday, July 12th from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Hall Funeral Home, 165 Quaker Ridge Road in Casco, Maine. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, July 13th at 11 AM at Saint Joseph Church, 225 South High Street, Bridgton, ME 04009. Interment will be at the Crooked River Cemetery in Naples. Condolences and tributes may be shared at www.hallfuneralhome.net.

Gifts may be made in memory of Jane to Harvest Hills Animal Shelter, 1389 Bridgton Road, Fryeburg, ME 04037 where she adopted her beloved dog, Pebbles.

Eric Nelson, Owner and Funeral Director 165 QUAKER RIDGE RD., CASCO, ME 04015 207-627-4538 • HALLFUNERALHOME.NET

Sergei Kolesnik

Sergei Viacheslavovich Kolesnik, 34, of Harrison, passed away on Thursday, June 27, 2024, leaving behind cars he didn’t test drive, breweries he didn’t visit, and concerts and comedy shows he didn’t have the chance to attend.

Sergei is survived by his incredibly supportive long-term partner in crime, Carolyn, who was the love of his life for 17 years (nine years of marriage). He is also survived by his mother, Olga Kolesnik; grandparents, Tanya (Phillip) Wise; grandmother, Stefania Kanarski; and his large extended family.

He is preceded in death by his father Viacheslav Kolesnik; grandfather Dmitriy Kolesnik; grandfather Dmitriy Kanarski.

Sergei graduated from Gilbert High School in Gilbert, Ariz., where he enjoyed playing ping pong, earning better grades than everyone else with minimal effort, sitting in the hall to think about his behavior, and attempting to eat $20 worth of Otis Spunkmeyer cookies before making himself sick.

He made travel plans, career decisions, and car and home purchases based on “feeling” and left others wondering whether he was good, lucky, or some combination of both.

He enjoyed receiving items the server forgot to include on the bill, jumping old Buicks in the desert (and in neighborhoods), taking pictures of custom license plates that were somehow approved by the DMV, and testing the limits of his lactose intolerance with a diet consisting almost entirely of dairy products.

Sergei loved to laugh, and have fun. He made it a point to ensure that those around him did, as well. He was a strong advocate for mental health and the rights of everyone around him. He was loved by many and will be sorely missed.

A private memorial service was live streamed at 2 p.m. on Sunday, July 7 and can be accessed on his obituary page at www. hallfuneralhome.net.

A celebration of life for Sergei will be held in Colorado at later date with details to be shared as time gets closer.

Memorial donations can be made in Sergei’s name to your favorite charity or your favorite brewery, where you are encouraged to enjoy a few beers and remember a few of the many good times he shared with you.

John J. Laramee

BRIDGTON-John J. Laramee, 75, of Bridgton, formerly of Milford and Acton, MA, died Tuesday morning, June 25, 2024 at the Woodlands of Bridgton Memory Care facility in Bridgton.

He was born on May 11, 1949, in Worcester, Mass. A son of Alphonse A. and Leona M. (Gosselin) Laramee. John attended St. John’s High School in Shrewsbury, Mass. and went on to graduate from Worcester Polytechnic Institute with a degree in Civil Engineering.

John had a successful career in telecommunications working as an engineer. He spent 25 years in Engineering for Verizon, worked for 6 months doing telecommunications in Thailand, and finished his career at US Cellular.

In 2003, he married Theresa Landers in the British Virgin Islands. They made their home in Acton and Lowell, Mass. before retiring to their vacation home in Bridgton in 2015.

John loved to travel, played many hours of pickle ball but his favorite activity was playing golf with his friends at Lake Kezar Country Club in Lovell.

He is loved by his wife, Terry of Bridgton; a son, Scott Laramee and his wife, Kim D’Amelio of Round Rock, Tex.; step-sons, Michael Landers and his husband Jarred of Natick, Mass. and Jeffrey Landers and his wife, Hannah of Portland; four siblings, Linda Liberty and her partner Ghislain Clément of Quebec and Boylston, Mass., James “Jim” Laramee and his partner, Susan Troy of Oxford, Mass., Lisa Murphy and her husband, Jim of Shrewsbury, Mass. and Paul Laramee and his wife, Sharon of Shrewsbury, Mass., along with many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents and his son Michael.

to pay it forward – so much thanks!

Please register online and scholarship forms are available. Thank you to Town of Denmark for your support of Denmark Arts Center’s children’s programming!

The Denmark Arts Center is housed in the town’s historic 1883 Odd Fellows Hall on 50 West Main Street in Denmark. For more information, visit http://www.denmarkarts.org/ events

Sam Robbins at Dragonfly Barn

The HAYLOFT at Dragonfly Barn in Bridgton presents an evening of acoustic music with Sam Robbins this Saturday, July 13 at 7:30 p.m.

Sam Robbins describes himself as an “old soul singer songwriter.” A Nashvillebased musician whose music evokes classic 70s singer songwriters like James Taylor and Neil Young, Sam adds a modern, upbeat edge to the storyteller troubadour persona. An avid performer, he has gained recognition from extensive touring and as one of the six 2021 winners in the Kerrville Folk Festival New Folk competition, one of the largest and most prestigious songwriting competitions in the country.

Sam released his debut album, Finally Feeling Young, on May 14, 2021. The album is reminiscent of his 70s singer-songwriter heroes, with a modern perspective. On the heels of the award-winning opening single, “Remind Me, Finally Feeling Young” has already garnered radio airplay and critical acclaim. Two album tracks, Remind Me and Saying Amen, won him a place as one of the six Kerrville Folk Festival New Folk winners.

A multi-instrumentalist from a young age, Sam began learning drums and piano, falling in love with guitar at age

ROBBINS, Page 6B

Deertrees Theatre

HARRISON — There is plenty to be excited about in July as Deertrees Theatre in Harrison rolls out great music and one of the funniest musicals ever written.

Monday, July 15, 7:30 p.m., Camp Encore Coda’s Faculty/Student Ensemble Concert, $10. The talented staff and students of music-centered Camp Encore Coda in Sweden, Maine, present a 20-piece chamber orchestra concert. Performance benefits Lake Environmental Association (LEA), protecting the waters and watersheds in the Greater Sebago Lake Region.

Tuesday, July 16, 7:30 p.m., Sebago Long Lake Music Festival $35/concert, season passes $145 In its 52nd year, Sebago Long Lake Music Festival (Tuesdays to Aug. 13) presents five indoor classical concerts that astound audiences as the signature series of the Festival’s season. Saturday, July 20, 7:30 p.m., SLANE – U2 Tribute Concert, $20. Maine’s own U2 tribute band performs legendary music favorites U2 songs. Enjoy big hits and deep cuts, from “Sunday Bloody Sunday” to “Bullet the Blue Sky,” from “With or Without You” to “Stories for Boys.” Sponsored by Camp Laughing Grass.

Music at Hayloft

(Continued from Page 3B)

they spend many hours each day. They perform several times each week during the public concerts, and advanced students present a solo recital. At the end of their time in Bethel, students will perform from memory repertoire which they will have begun to study only after arriving on campus.

Gould Academy is on the distinguished list of “All-

Steinway Schools,” an honor shared by educational institutions such as Oberlin College Conservatory, Yale School of Music, The Juilliard School, Wheaton College, and Vassar College. This distinction denotes that Steinway and Steinway-designed pianos are exclusively used in the school’s performance and practice spaces. Website: hayloftatdragonfly.com

A Celebration of Life will be held for John at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, July 16 at Tarry A While Resort in Bridgton. Arrangements are in the care of Hall Funeral Home in Casco. Condolences and tributes may be shared at www.hallfuneralhome.net.

In lieu of flowers please make a donation in John’s name to the Lewy Body Association at https://www.lbda.org/donate/

SWAMP ROCK and blues at Denmark Arts with Black Cat Road Friday, July 19, 7 p.m.

SAM ROBBINS this Saturday, July 13 at 7:30 p.m. at Dragonfly Barn.

Calendar of Events

(Continued from Page 5B)

dog with all the fixings, a drink and chips.

How to battle Bittersweet

Join Chocorua Lake Conservancy Stewardship Director Debra Marnich at the CLC Brown Lot in Chocorua, N.H. from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. for a “Bittersweet Stewardship Morning,” learning how and helping to control bittersweet and other invasive species without using chemicals that

OPEN EVERY DAY

10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

pose risks to pollinators and to soil health. More information and please register in advance at www.chocorualake.org/ events

Speaker Series of the Charlotte Hobbs Library welcomes Mary Morton Cowan, the award-winning children’s author of numerous books and articles, at 4 p.m. This talk is in-person and on Zoom. For details and the link to join virtually, go to www.hobbsli-

• Homemade Fudge • Caramels

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Peter Griggs, Steven Silverstein & Al Struck, classical guitar, clarinet, saxophone, wind ensemble, 7 p.m. at Bear Mountain Music Hall (427 Waterford Road) in Waterford. Events funded by donations. Refreshments available downstairs in the School House Café during and after each event. Friday, July 19

Informational walk. The Bridgton Historical Society will offer a low-impact informational walk at Narramissic Historic Farm and the Peabody-Fitch Woods in South Bridgton, led by BHS Board President and Loon Echo Land Trust Stewardship Manager, Jon Evans at 9 a.m. For more information, please contact (207) 647-3699. Black Cat Road at Denmark Arts Center, 7 p.m. Swamp Rock & Blues, funky, soulful, emotional, rootsy, raw tales from icy bayous, a dirt road with some twists and turns you may want to slow down for. Tickets: denmarkarts.org/ events

SURROUNDED BY GOOD FOOD & FRIENDS

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www.bethskitchencafe.com Free WiFi

July 18-20

45th Annual Sebago Days, behind Sebago Elementary School (junction of Routes 114 and 11 — Thursday, midway opens at 3 p.m., canine demos 4 p.m., Kiddie Parade 6 p.m., Alex Roy Band (alternative rock) 8 p.m.; Friday, midway opens 3 p.m., Car Show 5 to 8 p.m., Talent Show 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Stone Broke Band (country, bluegrass) 8 p.m.; Saturday, 5K Run/Walk 8 a.m. (free toddler dash at 7:45 a.m.), Lions Yard Sale 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Grand Parade (Celebrate the 70s) 10 a.m., midway opens 11 a.m., Scavenger Hunt 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Wanda Plummer Dancers 11:30 a.m., 207 Rhythm Road Band (country, pop, rock) 2 p.m., Skillet Toss 4 p.m., Half Moon Jug Band (folk, pop, rock) 5 p.m., Sebago Lions Lobster/Chicken Barbecue 5 to 6:30 p.m., Farmers Olympics 6 p.m., Henry Lowery Band (country, blues, rock) 8 p.m., fireworks about 9:30 p.m. (rain date Sunday, July 21), midway closes 10 p.m.

July 19-21, July 25-28

The Original’s present “Private Lives,” a play by Noel Coward at Saco River Theatre, 29 Salmon Falls Road, Bar Mills, July 19, 20, 25, 26, 27 at 7:30 p.m.; and July 21 and July 28 at 2:30 p.m. Tickets: $15 general admission at www.sacorivertheate.org.

Friday, July 19

History Walk, 9 a.m., with the Bridgton Historical Society at Narramissic & Peabody Fitch Woods in South Bridgton.

Saturday, July 20

Used Book Sale at the

Legal Announcements

Public Notice

TOWN OF DENMARK Planning Board

Notice of Planning Board Workshop Meeting. Zoning Ordinance Amendments Shoreland District Review

Date: Thursday, July 18,2024 Time: 6:00 p.m. 1T28

PUBLIC NOTICE

TOWN OF HARRISON

Harrison Board of Appeals

The 2nd SAD 17 District Budget Meeting will be held on July 23, 2024, at 6 p.m. at the Oxford Hills Comprehensive High School, 256 Main St., South Paris, in the forum.

The 2nd SAD 17 Election will be on August 6, 2024 from 8 am – 8 pm at the Harrison Town Office, 20 Front St. 2t28

LEGAL ADVERTISEMENT LEGAL ADVERTISEMENT

Kendal C. and Anna Ham

Charitable Foundation, Inc

Notice of Annual Return Availability

The annual report of the Kendal C. and Anna Ham Charitable Foundation, Inc. is available for inspection at the office of the Foundation, 2493 White Mountain Highway, Route 16, North Conway, New Hampshire. Telephone 603-356-3389 during regular business hours by any citizen who requests it within 180 days of the publication of this notice.

Principal Manager: Dorthea Seybold Date: July 1, 2024

TOWN OF BRIDGTON

3 CHASE STREET, SUITE 1

BRIDGTON, MAINE 04009

PUBLIC NOTICE

PUBLIC HEARING

PIT AND QUARRY APPLICATION

The Bridgton Planning Board will conduct a Public Hearing at the Bridgton Town Office, 3 Chase Street, Suite 1, Bridgton, Maine, on Tuesday, July 16, 2024, beginning at 5 p.m. to consider the following:

An application filed by Sebago Technics for a project entitled “Rolfe Corporation Libby Pit and Quarry,” located on Trails Edge Way, Bridgton, Maine 04009, known as Bridgton Tax Map 11 Lot 1A.

Prior to the Public Hearing at 3 p.m., the Board will conduct a Site Walk at the proposed property on Trails Edge Way. The public is welcome to attend.

The application is available for viewing at the Bridgton Town Office by appointment only. Please contact Loralee Phillips, Planning Board Secretary, at lphillips@bridgtonmaine.org for an emailed copy of the application. All interested individuals are invited to attend at the above place and time or may participate via Zoom.

Public Notice

TOWN OF NAPLES

Planning Board Meeting

The Naples Select Board will hold a public hearing on Monday, July 22, 2024, at 6 p.m. in the Town Office Building located at 15 Village Green Lane. On the agenda:

1. New Business License Application-Lake Region Carpentry, to operate at 30 Eggert Way (Map R06 Lot 013C)

2. New Business License Application-Black Paw Sealcoating, to operate at 25 Pierce Dr. (Map U52-084)

3. Outdoor Entertainment Permit-Mountain View Woodies Boat Show to be held at Naples Town Dock and Causeway on August 10, 2024, rain date August 11, 2024 2t28

TOWN OF BRIDGTON

3 CHASE STREET, SUITE 1 BRIDGTON, MAINE 04009

PUBLIC NOTICE

Notice To Contractors

Church Street Sidewalk Improvments

Sealed Bid Proposals

Due 2:00 PM, Tuesday, July 30, 2024

Sealed bids for the project named above will be received at the Town of Bridgton Community Development Office, 3 Chase Street Suite 1, Bridgton, Maine 04009 until 2:00 pm (prevailing time) on Tuesday, July 30, 2024. Bids received after this time will not be accepted. Thereafter, bids will be opened in public and read aloud. Construction must be substantially complete no later than November 1, 2024. In general, the project consists of construction of approximately 1,600 linear feet of new sidewalk, including installation of granite curb, paving and ADA improvements. The Project is being bid and any bids submitted are subject to the conditions set forth in Section X of the “Municipal Purchasing and Sale of Supplies, Materials, or Equipment Policy” approved 9/22/2015, as amended, and the resulting Contract is subject to the laws of the State of Maine. The Issuing Office for the Bidding Documents is:

Community Development Bridgton Town Office 3 Chase St., Suite 1 Bridgton, Maine 04009

Prospective Bidders may examine the Bidding Documents at the Issuing Office on or after 8:00am on July 9, 2024 and on Mondays through Thursdays between the hours of 8:00am and 4:00pm, and may obtain copies of the Bidding Documents as described below.

ONLY electronic (PDF) copies of the Bidding Documents may be obtained from the owner’s representative, during the hours indicated above or may be requested via e‐mail. Request for bid documents should be made via e‐mail to Amy LeBel, PE at alebel@woodardcurran.com. Any questions concerning the project named above should be directed to the following: Amy LeBel, Woodard & Curran via e‐mail @ alebel@woodardcurran.com. Applicants shall have obtained at least one set of electronic or paper Proposal Documents to be considered a responsive applicant.

This project is being partially funded by HUD Community Development Block Grant funds. Davis Bacon Federal Wage Rates apply to this project, please take notice to the wage rate determination attached to the bid documents.

Bridgton Public Library Book Shed, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., rain date July 21. Book and Bake Sale from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Spaulding Memorial Library (282 Sebago Road in Sebago). Come buy a cookie to eat while you cheer on the runners and a book to read afterward! FMI 7872321.

Storyteller Jo Radner brings “Wit and Wisdom” to Hiram Historical Society at 1:30 p.m. Her new book brings out a forgotten New England tradition of gathering to display knowledge, opinion and humor. The free program will be held at the Great Ossipee Museum of Hiram Historical Society, 20 Historical Ridge, in Hiram. Light refreshments.

Chocorua Lake Conservancy Stewardship Director Debra Marnich for a Lake Paddle on Chocorua (NH) Little Lake, from 7:30 to 10 a.m. learning about the plants, insects, reptiles and amphibians who make their homes along the shore, and scanning for aquatic invasive plants. More info and please register in advance at www. chocorualake.org/events.

Sunday, July 21

All You Can Eat pancake breakfast (blueberry, chocolate chip, and plain pancakes), French Toast, bacon, sausage, orange juice, and coffee presented by the Harrison Lions Club at Long Lake Park in Harrison from 7:30 until 11 a.m. The park is next to The Village Tie-Up. Donations accepted. Future dates: August 11, September 1 and September 29.

Casco High School Alumni ice cream social from 1 to 4 p.m., Casco Community Center, all classes that attended Casco High are welcome, bring your spouse or a friend and visit with all your classmates, please respond asap so we can plan for enough food. Feel free to make any suggestions that will make the event more enjoyable. For more information, contact Toppa Sims, toppaplb@hotmail.com Off To College/Album Release Concert, 4 p.m. at the Little White Church in Eaton, N.H. featuring Maisie Brown, Kaitlyn Sakash, and their teacher Ellen Schwindt. Concert is free, but donations benefit The Little White Church. E-mail ellen.m.schwindt@ gmail.com for more information.

Tuesday, July 23

Blood Drive, 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., David & Doris Hastings Community Center, 59 Recreation Drive, Fryeburg. Book a time to give blood or platelets by visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS or by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App. Bridgton Community Band free community concert from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Gazebo in Bradley Park on Main Street, Fryeburg. Performances will happen rain or shine with rain location at the Fire Station on Main Street. The BCB was founded in 1938 and is celebrating its 86th consecutive year of providing concerts featuring a variety of music to the public. Sebago-Long Lake Music Festival, 7:30 p.m., Deertrees Theatre in Harrison. Program: Foss, Three American Pieces for Flute and Piano; Arensky, String Quartet in A Minor, Op. 35; Schumann, Piano Quartet in E-Flat Major, Op. 47. Ticket info: https://sebagomusicfestival.org

Wednesday, July 24 Bridgton Community Band Concert, 7 p.m., “Around the World with BCB,” at Stevens Brook Elementary School grounds in Bridgton. Free. Bring lawn chairs and snacks. July 25-27 89th Annual Casco Days at Casco Days Park, Route 121 (free parking and free admission) — Thursday, midway opens at 6 p.m., fireworks at 9:30 p.m.; Friday, chicken barbecue 5 p.m., midway opens at 6 p.m., Children’s Parade 7 p.m.; Saturday, pancake breakfast 8 to 11 a.m. at the Casco Village Church, Road Race 9:30 a.m., Grand Parade 2 p.m., Community Supper at Casco Village Church 4:30 p.m. www.cascodays.com Saturday, July 27 Dog Wash from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., to benefit Lakes Region Recovery Center, 2 Elm Street, Bridgton. Service includes brush out, shampoo and conditioner, blow dry. Rates: $15 for small/medium dogs, $25 for large/x-large dogs, $10 picture with pet. Drive-Up Lunch at the Lovell United Church of Christ, 1174 Main Street, 10 a.m. to noon, $5 per person. Menu: Sausage sub with peppers, onions, pasta salad and a cookie. Proceeds benefit LUCC Mission Committee. Call Joyce at 928-3132 to reserve your meal.

Sam Robbins

(Continued from Page 4B)

13. He then started writing original music, recording his first CD during his sophomore year of high school, while playing open mics in his hometown of Portsmouth, N.H. In 2018, Sam was able to audition on NBC’s The Voice for Adam Levine, Kelly Clarkson, Blake Shelton and Jennifer Hudson as the first artist to perform a Jim Croce song on the show.

Sam considers himself a student of songwriting, constantly searching, and learning about why songs have the impact they do. A 2019 graduate of Berklee College of Music’s songwriting department, he has hosted many songwriting workshops and masterclasses, including at the Harvard Music Department and the Boys & Girls Club of Boston. In his performances and workshops, Sam explores the magic behind the craft of songwriting, and tries to help others express themselves through the unique and powerful medium of songwriting.

Sam’s second album, Bigger Than in Between, was released in August 2022 to critical acclaim. For tickets, go to: www.hayloftatdragonfly.com

Opinion & Comment

Time for Eclipse Plumage

Bird Watch

by Jean Preis BN Columnist

A couple of weeks ago when I went down for my swim, I found a feather lying on the sand. I picked it up, brushed the sand off, and smoothed its tiny interlocking hooks back together with my fingers. The feather was gray-brown, and from the shape I could see it was from a bird’s left wing. Feathers define a bird. All birds have feathers, and no other animal has them. Birds spend considerable time caring for their feathers, but periodically they wear out and must be replaced in a process called molting. During the molt, a new feather grows in each follicle, or socket, causing the old feather to loosen and get pushed out. The feather in my hand had been molted. It was old and worn out, with frayed edges, and so light it fluttered in the slightest breeze. Sometimes, you can’t judge a book by its cover, and sometimes you can’t judge a bird by its plumage. Each species molts at a particular time of year, some more than once, and I guessed that the feather in my hand might once have belonged to a Mallard. There had been a few Mallards cruising around the cove, and this feather seemed to be about the right color and size. The male Mallard is familiar to just about everyone, with his bright green head and neck with a thin white ring around the base of the neck, a rich chestnut breast and soft gray body. A dark blue wing patch bordered by white, and a couple of distinctive black tail feathers that curl up, add the final decoration.

The female Mallard is less familiar to some folks, a lovely mottled brown Duck with a few white tail feathers, and the same blue wing patch bordered by white.

Many years ago, we used to be quite puzzled about Mallard families. In spring, we would often see a pair of Mallards swimming together, or sunning themselves on a rock just above the surface of the lake. By early summer, in some years, we even got to see a female Mallard swimming with her little ducklings all following her as closely as possible. As the youngsters grew, they would spread out, and it was always fun to watch any stragglers hurry to catch up with her. The mystery, though, was that around that time the males all seemed to disappear. We were not the only ones who noticed the absence of the males, but whenever we asked about it no one could tell us where the male Mallards had gone. It remained a mystery until we learned about molting.

In early summer, after the female Mallards are successfully established on their nests, incubating eggs, their mates leave them and go off on their own. By then, the males’ feathers are worn out from the stresses of migration and the breeding season. They no longer need the colorful breeding plumage that helped them attract females, and it’s time to molt the old feathers and grow new ones. The male’s familiar colorful but worn feathers are discarded and are replaced with mottled brown feathers known as the “eclipse” plumage. During this time, even the flight feathers molt, leaving the males flightless for weeks, so when molting they gather in secluded marshy areas where they are safer from predators. Male Mallards molt twice a year. In early summer they undergo a molt that results in the mottled eclipse plumage, and then in early autumn another feather molt restores their familiar colorful plumage.

PLUMAGE, Page 9B

A community Fourth of July

Howdy neighbor!

In Ye Olden Times

by Michael Davis BHS Assistant Director

Our small town sure fills up for Independence Day, doesn’t it? Now, I don’t have any hard statistics for this year’s attendance numbers yet, though I’m sure someone somewhere in the town office is busy tabulating the data even now, but speaking just anecdotally, doesn’t it feel like this year the 4th of July week here in Bridgton was somehow even busier than is traditional? Oh, the usual signs and suspects are all in appearance; you can’t turn left onto Main Street, all the camps and inns and motels are filled up, and down to the supermarket cookout supplies run worryingly low while checkout lines run worryingly long, trending away somewhere into the frozen dairy aisle.

But this year, it seems more, doesn’t it? More traffic, more filled up restaurants, longer waits to get into and out of businesses; there’s more people here, I think, than we used to see even in the height of summer before the pandemic. I can’t prove it, but the signs tell me, many small ones adding

Letters to the Editor

Help us keep helping

To The Editor:

Hello beloved community of Lake Region. For those of you that don’t know us, we are Crosswalk Community Outreach. We are a 501c3, 100% volunteer nonprofit organization that has been servicing Lake Region families since 2008. It is unfortunate that we are having to write this letter at this time. We’ve been running a food pantry, clothing closet, free home cooked meals site out of the town gym at the Naples Town Hall since 2008. We also do a free Thanksgiving meal, Christmas cheers for troops. We’ve helped with short-term housing, emergency heating assistance, transportation and other needs. During COVID, we worked in collaboration with our town manager (John Hawley) and delivered hundreds of free meals on three different routes with outstanding volunteers for over four months. We work with groups like Good Shepherd, Wayside Food Rescue in Portland, The Maine USDA, Southern Maine Agency of Aging, Bridgton Rotary and many other great organizations. Unfortunately, we were told last year the roof of the gym at the town of Naples was unsafe and the gym needed to come down. We were moved to a smaller space at the Naples Grange. We also used the gym and kitchen to help our town during extended power outages with free meals and a place to come when

they were out of power. We have a trained community health worker that provides referrals and helps people apply for assistance programs available as well as notary services.

For four years now, we have supplied local students in need with backpacks and school supplies averaging 75 per year. We had to eliminate our free hot meals program, and some other services due to space limitations. That all being said we are reaching out to the community of Lake Region to see if there might be a space out there, a place we might be able to use to host our outreach for the less fortunate. We do our outreach every other Monday year-round. We have over 40 faithful volunteers that help us support our community. We have a walk-in freezer and walk in refrigerator that stores thousands of pounds of free food for the community and we also have two sheds. We are asking our community members if anyone in Naples might have a space for us to love on our neighbors or would like to donate to our community building fund so that might have our own space and expand our services. If anyone would like to donate, please reach out to us at crosswalk-

up in greater frequency than in years past. Take, for instance, all that honking which is once again being heard on our streets; and I’m not talking about the Canada Geese. Barring a quick beep to passing friends, when’s the last time you heard an automobile honking in traffic on Main Street in Bridgton? Well probably very recently, in point of fact yesterday for me, but I would observe the marked phenomenon that the frequency of this occurrence falls to almost zero in the calendar months of September to May. It is a fact of summer, snowbirds honk. Must have something to do with the stresses of their natural habitat. Since here in Maine, ‘Where the way life Should be,’ I can only speculate on all those changes happening elsewhere which now motivate so many more of them to flock hither whenever they have any spare time free to migrate. It must be getting bad down there.

outreach@yahoo.com. Please check us out on Facebook or come by on the Mondays we are open at the Naples Grange and talk to us. We love our community and will never stop serving it. Financial donations are accepted and are 100 percent tax deductible. Financial donations may be sent to Crosswalk Community Outreach, PO Box 460, Naples, Maine 04055 or by visiting our website. You can check out our nonprofit online at http://www.crosswalkcommunityoutreach.com.

Together we can make our vision for our community a reality.

Gratefully, Crosswalk Community Outreach Board of Directors

Choices

To The Editor:

Trump has created a two-pronged problem for Washington. First, Trump has upset the Establishment which has become comfortable with the Democrats dominate and Republicans submissive. Second, Trump has upset the radical Progressives by piercing their fables or ignoring them.

The Establishment, particularly the Republicans, circled the wagons when Trump came down the escalator at Trump Towers and announced his

Too many people rely on personal attacks rather than discussing opinions and facts. Jon Chappell Bridgton

I kid of course, but only partly. Gently I hope, but for good reason. Because while as always I welcome our summer visitors, I would offer the guiding word of advice for all our readers that everyone who enjoys summer here in Bridgton, be they local or tourist, is here for the same thing. The calm, quiet, peaceful way of life found here; a culture which I would argue can only properly exist in such a setting as ours, one of rural character, quaint Americana and relatively unspoiled natural beauty. I want this, you want this, and all those from away certainly want it too. So, let’s all do our part, everyone, not to ruin it while we’ve got it. Let’s clean up after ourselves, each move a little slower and be less impatient in our dealings, and try to get along while we’re all here together. It’ll make this summer a good deal calmer and more enjoyable for all parties. For summer is short and soon to pass – in fact we’re already losing daylight each day, already sliding slowly back down that long slump towards winter – so while we’ve got it let’s not waste our summer in petty squabbling and frustration over little things we really ought

FOURTH, Page 8B

run for the presidency. Progressive Democrats immediately attacked Trump and the Establishment Republicans remained very quiet.

When Trump gained the White House, the Progressives were yelling Russia, Russia, Russia and the Establishment encouraged Trump to pick his staff from tried-and-true Establishment types who apparently protected the interests of the Establishment instead of Trump’s or the American people. Congress did little, outside of a tax cut and the courts, to support Trump in his first term as president. Yet, he was able to make the country become a fossil fuel exporter, closed the Southern border, kept the world at peace, checked China, checked Russia, checked Iran, stabilized prices, created jobs, people could afford houses, and stabilized, invigorated the economy.

The Progressives under Biden, Harris, Schumer, et al, in 2020, proceeded to undo the good that Trump had done. Biden and Co. declared war on fossil fuels, we became an energy importer, and gasoline prices went up; reopened the Southern border, fentanyl smuggling went up, human trafficking went up, abuse of women and children went way up, our cities are overrun by illegals (who get precedence over citizens), jobs are lost to illegals, and Democracy is threatened; the world is at war; China is kowtowed to; Russia and Iran have gone from destitute to plush with cash (which financed their wars) because the fossil fuel restrictions are unenforced; inflation is rampant; almost all of the jobs created are recovery of lost jobs during the Biden COVID fiasco, government hires, or healthcare. The 80,000 or so jobs a month that the government creates hurts the economy not helps it.

The working folks can’t afford to buy

houses. The distance between rich and poor has grown briskly. The cost of everything has gone up faster than wages and is killing the old folks on fixed incomes.

Biden and Company policies have been a disaster on every front from the border to anti-semitism, to foreign wars, and to the economy. I feel sorry for my Democrat friends having Biden as their best bet.

Remember in November.

Jock MacGregor Sebago

Differing points of view

To The Editor: The BN has a cadre of contributors who suffer in extremis from Trump Derangement Syndrome, but the newest patient Ms. Holt has taken it to a whole new level.

Falling flat on her face with her opening comments on the nature of the presidency, she seems to think the job is a facilitator/coordinator. No, Ms. Holt, the president is our chief executive and commander-in-chief, which is wholly different from your Alice in Wonderland description. The body of her letter is a histrionic diatribe indicative of someone so out of control that no one could possibly take her seriously as someone in control of either her emotions or intelligence.

While she is entitled to her opinions, as obnoxiously expressed, that does not make them facts.

Referring to a former (and hopefully soon again to be) president of this country as among other things “dumb as dirt, no smarts, stupid, possessing a smidgeon of knowledge,

PATRIOTIC CLOUD COVER — The sky was honoring the Fourth of July holiday in this sunset at Highland Lake on Friday as photographed by Linda Hamilton of Bridgton.

MIKE DAVIS AND ZOE SILVIA in colonial attire, carried the Bridgton Historical Society banner, during Bridgton’s Fourth of July Parade. (Rivet Photos)

Page 8B, The Bridgton News, July 11, 2024

A community Fourth of July Opinions

(Continued from Page 7B)

to all be letting go. Let’s treat our fellow citizens decently, appreciating the fact that life here moves a little slower and remembering that it’s not only just the way we locals like it, it’s also a large contributing factor for why everyone else likes it here too.

This week, in honor of the excellent Independence Day celebrations which we lately enjoyed here in Bridgton to mark this 248th year of American Independence, I’d like to reflect on the incredible display of small-town community spirit which annually drives it. From the concert by the Community Band, the Craft Fair by the Rec Department, the Rotary and Lions Club’s able stewardship of the Duck Race and parade, and all the work of the local police and fire departments in organizing and directing traffic, to the incredible logistics behind the fireworks, 4 on the Fourth Road Race, and the countless nonprofit ice cream socials, strawberry breakfasts, spaghetti suppers, proclamations and community events which year after year further serve to ornament the glorious Fourth. Behind all of these notable and smoothly run events is a small army of local organizers and volunteers working tirelessly in the cause of our town, and each deserve the heartiest vote of thanks from their fellow citizens for the work put in this year. It was one of the best displays I can remember here,

and certainly beat out most anything else put in our section of country, as well as the displays of many larger towns and cities farther afield. In the interest of keeping the peace, I won’t name names, but many municipalities far larger than ours, and with far greater manpower and resources, could do well to follow Bridgton’s example. Historically, this has often been the case, for Bridgton’s 4th of July observations are often noted in local histories going back over two centuries for their size and grandeur. Those of 1804, 1815, 1851, and 1899 are particularly noteworthy, and would that I had the space this week to relate all their particulars. But for now, in the interest of keeping up the theme of community engagement, I’d like to focus on a citizens’ petition from 1884 which I feel best expresses the spirit I’m talking about. Because that year the town fathers, owing a shortage in the budget, set no money aside for a 4th of July parade, and as June arrived and the public began to fret. A committee of 14 of our best citizens gathered together to raise the necessary funds themselves, and the subscription paper from this event is still on file in the archives of the Bridgton Historical Society. The resolution reads: “Bridgton, June 9th, 1884. At a citizen’s meeting held at Central Hall, Bridgton, on Saturday evening June 7, a committee of fourteen was chosen to solicit subscriptions and make arrangements for a Fourth

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of July celebration. We agree to pay the sums set against our names to defray the expenses of a celebration to be held at Bridgton July 4th, 1884. The amount subscribed to be paid to the Treasurer of the Committee on or before June 25th.” This resolve was liberally upheld. Starting with the hardware firm of Chandler & Wales, the predecessor to Wales & Hamblen, the list goes on to include a total of 36 other names, together subscribing a total sum of $347.25. The greatest donor, William M. Staples, personally gave $5 at the initial meeting and later, through his dry-goods and grocery business, subscribed an additional $76. While the list is too long to here include in full, and lacking historical context sadly many of the names thereon won’t mean much to our citizens today, it will suffice to say that this list is something of a roster for the leading men of 1880s Bridgton. There’s all the usual suspects present: Kimballs and Bennetts and Stevenses, Caswells and Libbys and Larrabees, together with a flurry of other names less-well known, and at least a few largely forgotten by even local history barring an occasional appearance on either census or voter list.

In 1884, we find all of them united in this patriotic cause, all caring enough to give their own money and support to affect an Independence Day celebration here in Bridgton, and I can only hope that in the future all the names of those men and women now involved in preparing our current 4th of July celebrations will be as well documented as their forebears here are. The list, I expect, now runs well into the hundreds. Incidentally, the 1884 celebration proved to be everything its planners hoped and more. As the News of July 11 reported in a front-page article stretching almost three columns, “the observance of Independence Day in this village was one of the most successful affairs of the kind ever known in Bridgton. The earnest efforts of the committee bore abundant fruit, and what with the best of weather, an immense crowd, perfect order, no accident or other disturbing element, the scenic musical and literary features first-class, and the details

/cord

Town of Lovell Maine Help Wanted

The Town of Lovell Maine is seeking qualified applicants for the position of Public Works Director.

The candidate must have a positive attitude and be a team player. An unrestricted CDL A license is required for this position.

The Public Works Director shall have computer skills for the electronic communications and interactions with all Local, State and Federal entities as necessary for regulatory compliance, grant applications as appropriate and for all other electronic documentation required by this position.

The applicant should have experience in snow plowing and working with heavy equipment. Mechanical skills would be helpful.

Applicants must be able to lift at least 50 pounds and may require being on your feet for extended periods of time.

This is a full time position based on a minimum of 40 hours per week.

Starting pay is $26.00 per hour, which is negotiable based on experience.

Benefits include Health Insurance, retirement benefits, and paid vacation, holiday, personal, and sick time. Total benefits package annual value is approximately $24,000.

Please submit a letter of interest, resume and references not later than August 9, 2024 to: Town of Lovell Maine, Attention: Stephen Goldsmith, 1069 Main Street, Lovell, Maine 04051, or email to: s.goldsmith@lovellmaine.org.

Please note that a more detailed description of the responsibilities of this position is available at the Lovell Town Office, 1069 Main Street,

Opinions

Be Aware of the Crazies

Down the Garden Path

by Nancy Donovan, Ph.D., PT Master Gardener Volunteer

This spring, I have enjoyed giving a few presentations on the topic of gardening to attract pollinators. Each time, I have talked about the caution gardeners must follow so that no invasive plants are introduced into their gardens. The State of Maine regularly updates a list and I hope that each gardener will consult the list so that only non-invasive plants are purchased.

The invasive plant list can be found at the following website https://www.maine.gov/dacf/php/horticulture/invasiveplants.shtml

Unfortunately for me, birds do not understand that I do not want oriental bittersweet in my perennial beds. In fact, I think they are hiding in the trees while watching me pull out the wretched, orange-rooted pieces. Worse yet, I think they are smiling while they eat the seeds I purchase for them.

For this column, I decided to repeat information from a column I wrote for the June 8, 2023, issue of The Bridgton News. I decided to do this because I have discovered that most people I speak with do not know about another invasive species. The species is identified as Amynthas agrestis (crazy worm) by an International resource known as the Invasive Species Compendium (CABI). https://www.invasivespeciesinfo.gov/terrestrial/invertebrates/asian-jumping-worm

The USDA also has a good resource on the website for the National Invasive Species Information Center (https://www. invasivespeciesinfo.gov/terrestrial/invertebrates/asian-jumping-worm). In the literature, the worms are also referred to as

Asian jumping worms, snake worms, and wriggling worms. Another stimulus for my repeating the topic of jumping worms is the absolutely outstanding new comprehensive resource specific to the State of Maine that was written by Gary Fish who is a horticulturist for Maine. The document is easy to read and has pictures to illustrate each point, including some that will make you chuckle. I urge each gardener to read this document. It is titled “2024 Jumping Worm Update” https://www.maine.gov/dacf/php/horticulture/documents/ curtis-memorial-library-02042024.pdf

As a gardener that may have just a small bed of favorite perennials, you might ask if you really need to be concerned about the presence of jumping worms. Of course, the answer is “Yes,” or else I would have no reason to write this column. It has been shown that jumping worms can damage topsoil so badly that plants will fail to thrive. Indeed, the topsoil will have the appearance of used coffee grounds. Since invasive plants are less fussy about soil conditions, gardeners may find that they have gardens absent of the plants that were intentionally purchased and planted, and instead now the garden is full of invasive species.

While differentiating the various species of earthworms can be difficult, there are identifying characteristics that you can look for to determine if you have the jumping worms in your soil. One of the first things you can do is to take a close look at the top layer of your soil. The University of New Hampshire Cooperative Extension wrote about the jumping worm in an article titled, “Invasive in the Spotlight: Jumping Worms” published on their website on March 26, 2018. The authors reported that since the jumping worms live and feed close to the surface of the soil, and they are known to be voracious eaters, the castings they leave behind resemble coarse coffee grounds.

Another identifier is that while other earthworms have a band that is raised from the body of the earthworm (called a clitellum), it is reddish and close to the color of the body of the worm and does not wrap entirely around the body. The clitellum of the jumping worm is whitish or gray in color, is not raised off from the body (it is smooth), and it wraps

Step aside, Dred Scott

Independent Thought

by Rev. Robert Plaisted Guest Columnist

The 1857 Dred Scott decision has been considered, almost universally, the worst ruling ever issued by the Supreme Court. It was written by Chief Justice Roger Taney, who hailed from a wealthy, slaveholding Maryland family. He wrote that Americans of African descent “are not included, and were not intended to be included, under the word ‘citizens’ in the Constitution, and can therefore claim none of the rights and privileges which that instrument provides for and secures to citizens of the United States…They had for more than a century before been regarded as beings of an inferior order…and so far inferior, that they had no rights which the white man was bound to respect.”

Whew! It’s doubtful that

• Annuals: Ageratum

Hanging Baskets • VEGETABLES

Plumage

(Continued from Page 7B)

The answer to the question “where do male Mallards go in summer?” is that they have gone to a safe, secluded place to molt. Although I don’t know exactly whose feather I found in the sand by the lake, I do know it was discarded by a bird, perhaps a male Mallard, who no longer needed a slightly frayed feather, and who was replacing it with a nice new one.

a more blatant endorsement of the vile dogma of white supremacy ever was produced by an unenlightened human mind. Fortunately, it lasted only eight years, being nullified by the 13th Amendment in 1865. But, we never seem to learn from our mistakes. This past week, Dred Scott v. Sandford was replaced as the worst Supreme Court ruling by Trump v. United States — a misbegotten piece of judicial malpractice — which potentially visits on the United States a disaster exponentially greater than anything previously witnessed. Dred Scott helped trigger the Civil War. Trump v. United States could destroy our constitutional republic altogether, and could even trigger the collapse of human civilization. It’s a thermo-nuclear bomb dropped upon the rule of law.

The fact that six reactionary judges chose to make this judicial atrocity the law of the land, suggests none of them really believed the classic statement of John Adams, that we have “a government of laws, and not of men.”

What this decision gives us, clearly, is a government of

entirely around the body. Of course, a telltale identifier is the thrashing or writhing, fast-moving motion that you will see if you touch the jumping worm. There is a good video that you can watch on the DACF website. (Warning… while I have never eaten gummy worms, after watching the video, you may get a bit queasy when you see them in a store.)

The best time of the year to search for the worms is from late June through mid-October. This is because the adult jumping worms die after the first freeze of the year. However, the cocoons, which are approximately the size of a mustard seed, survive and hatch when temperatures are consistently above 50 degrees.

There is also a relatively easy way to see if jumping worms are present in the soil. It is called the mustard test. The directions are to mix a third of a cup of ground mustard into 1 gallon of water and pour the solution slowly over a 1 square foot of soil you want to test. This will make worms (any earthworms) come to the surface. You can then identify, collect, and discard jumping worms in sealed plastic bags and place them in trash. According to a factsheet published by Cornell University titled, “ Invasive Species for Homeowners: Jumping Worms”, the mustard test “ … is unlikely to harm most plants…” What is known is that allowing the jumping worms to remain in an area can be very detrimental to plants and animals.

The article cited earlier from the University of New Hampshire Extension website provides several actions that you can take to try to prevent jumping worms from invading your landscape/gardens. “Do not buy or sell mulch, topsoil, compost, or plants that are infested with jumping worms. Before bringing these products home and introducing them to your landscape or garden, carefully inspect the materials for signs of jumping worms and their castings. Be especially careful when sharing plant material at community plant sales and swaps. Jumping worms will readily crawl in to reproduce within nursery pots. If you know you have jumping worms in your garden, it’s better to avoid sharing plants with other gardeners.

Before you purchase any new plants, take a close look at the potting soil. If jumping worms are present, you will see signs of their telltale, coffee-ground like castings on the soil surface. To make sure you aren’t introducing jumping worms with new plantings, try to remove most of the soil from the root ball of a new plant. Knock off the soil into a garbage bin and rinse the roots with water to remove any remaining soil.”

A strategy I now use is to purchase plants from sellers that grow plants from native Maine seeds (Maine Audubon, and Wild Seed project are a couple resources). When I purchase plants from online sources, I purchase bare root plants. These plants arrive without any soil attached to the roots. A good explanation of how to deal with bare root plants can be found on a website from Iowa State Extension Service (https:// yardandgarden.extension.iastate.edu/how-to/how-plant-bareroot-plants).

Even as a youngster, I thought that the phrase “Worm your way into” seemed like an odd and, well, yucky statement. So, for this column, I was reminded of this and so I googled for an explanation. The online Cambridge Dictionary defined it as “to gradually achieve a position of trust, possibly by being dishonest” (https://dictionary.cambridge.org/dictionary/english/worm-into).

While I do not think that the jumping worms have the intellectual ability to deceive me in order to get into my gardens, I am honestly going to do everything I can to ban them from my soil.

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Letters

(Continued from Page 7B)

and a nitwit,” sets up a beautiful irony that such a withering distasteful description might better be self-directed. Taxes, Ms. Holt? Have you heard of the IRS? Has Trump ever been hauled into court like Hunter Biden by them? The answer is “no” because over the years they have never found him in noncompliance with the tax code. Bear in mind, you can rest assured it’s not for lack of trying to on their part. Ms. Holt objects to Trump’s firing “highly-educated people.” Perhaps these folks, in spite of being highly educated were fired for doing a poor job, Ms. Holt. Being highly educated doesn’t automatically translate to being effective in one’s job, and that’s where executives come into play as opposed to facilitators/coordinators. Finally, about empty barrels. It’s interesting this is a grade school analogy, and again when reviewing the entirety of the points Ms. Holt tried to make the potential irony of this winding up as self-directed comes into play.

Don Vose Naples

Opinions

Naples Fourth of July Parade

INDEPENDENCE DAY ’24 was free of the afternoon thundershowers that sometimes hit the region at the same time [2 p.m.] as the parade in Naples. However, some parade entries discovered ways to water down the crowd. Meanwhile, canine companions joined some folks on floats along the parade route. (De

Step aside, Dred Scott

(Continued from Page 9B)

men, but also a government of a particular type of men – rich, privileged, autocratic white men, with an occasional woman or black man conveniently tossed in. July 1, 2024 is another date which will live in infamy.

Ruth Ben-Ghiat of New York University, the world’s leading expert on autocracy and its methods, called the ruling an “autocrat’s fantasy.” She wrote, “Authoritarianism, at root, is about taking rights away from the many…and allowing the few, the cronies, the oligarchs, the leader, most of all, to have no checks and regulations on their lawlessness…it’s about transforming the rule of law into ‘rule by the lawless.’”

As happened with the Dred Scott decision, the Trump decision drew two furious dissents. Justice Sotomayor wrote, “When [the President] uses his official powers in any way, under the majority’s reasoning, he will now be insulated from criminal prosecution. Orders the Navy’s Seal Team 6 to assassinate a political rival? Immune. Organizes a military coup to hold onto power? Immune. Takes a bribe in exchange for a pardon? Immune.”

Justice Jackson added, “The majority…have put their trust in our Court’s ability to prevent Presidents from becoming

Kings…I fear that they are wrong…[B]ecause the risks (and power) the Court has now assumed are intolerable, unwarranted, and plainly antithetical to bedrock constitutional norms, I dissent.”

Out of all this constitutional wreckage, a ray of hope still shines. With their attempt to rewrite our Constitution and make it dictator-friendly, six theocrats may have handed President Biden a weapon, capable of stopping their religiofascist insurrection in its tracks. In March, I wrote a column, looking ahead at the possibility that the court might issue

some crackpot ruling like this. While editing, I omitted a paragraph, but I saved it. I’ll quote what I wrote then: “The same day they issue such a foolish decision, President Biden’s first move should be to send federal marshals to arrest MAGA-GUY [Donald Trump] and round up as many of his enablers as possible. Imprison them indefinitely without trial and suspend the habeas corpus provision of the Constitution, as Abraham Lincoln did during the Civil War. If a president is immune from prosecution for things he does during his presidency, then Biden should immediately begin committing illegal and unconstitutional acts. After all, the Supreme Court said he’s immune, so that can’t possibly be wrong!”

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

A community Fourth of July

(Continued from Page 8B)

of the entire program carried out like clockwork, it is enough to say that the event more than fulfilled the hopes of the most sanguine… courtesy and good humor pervaded the throng, and Bridgton has cause for self-congratulations that she ‘did herself proud’ by her successful celebration of Independence Day, 1884!”

How fitting, and how proud we must all be as both citizens of Bridgton and as Americans, to find these words still ring as true in this day and age as they did when first uttered. And how funny it is, also, to see the same sort of reminder back in 1884, urging that so long as “courtesy and good humor” characterize our summer gatherings, everything will work out just fine without any “accident or disturbing element.”

So, smile dear reader, rejoice in the beauty of summer in Bridgton, and don’t be like the fellow I saw the other day, a Bay Stater judging by his plates, waiting on a side road unable to proceed onto Portland Road because of the passing 4th of July Parade. For wouldn’t you know it, there he was in such a rush just a ranting and a raving away inside at some poor soul of a passenger because he’s upset he can’t turn the way he wants to, to get wherever he’s going in such a hurry, and is instead forced to witness the passing glory of one of the finest village parades ever seen this side of the White Mountains. All he had to do was take it in, to sit back, take a breath, kick up his feet and enjoy it; to see it not as an inconvenience but rather as feature to be enjoyed and, who knows, he might have

had a decent 4th of July. But he did not appreciate what he saw, and instead darted out and turned left against the parade at the instant the antique auto procession, naturally pulling away from the walking flagbearers, provided a brief break in the parade’s continuity of march. We spectators all shouted at him not to go, but in his impatience he did anyway with a curse and some very ungentlemanly gestures, all to get himself pulled over by Bridgton PD within 30 yards. I ask you, what was his plan? Where was he going? I don’t know. I don’t think he knew; only that he wanted to go and couldn’t, and that made him mad when it shouldn’t have. What a thing to be mad at, a parade? A parade in the town you’ve come here to visit, presumably to enjoy, and furthermore one celebrating the birth of your nation? Even in a rush, I’d expect patriotism from a son of Massachusetts, if not courtesy, or at least I’d hope for it. But I do know that his blind rush cost him, both the enjoyment of an otherwise free and beautiful spectacle, and like as not a decent traffic ticket, as well. If he learned I can’t say, but possibly others can by his example. So, let’s not be like him. After all, life’s too short, even in Maine.

June 22, 2024, 7:30 pm

June 22, 2024, 7:30 pm

June 22, 2024, 7:30 pm

JULY 14, 2024, 3:00 pm

Music without Borders International Piano

Antje Duvekot recently unveiled her fifth studio album, “New Wild West”.

Antje Duvekot recently unveiled her fifth studio album, “New Wild West”.

Antje Duvekot recently unveiled her fifth studio album, “New Wild West”.

in partnership with Gould Academy.

Festival Artistic Director Tamara Poddubnaya

Festival Artistic Director Tamara Poddubnaya

Festival Artistic Director Tamara Poddubnaya is a distinguished diplomate of the undergraduate and doctoral programs of the Rimsky -Korsakov State Conservatory in St. Petersburg and has performed to great acclaim in Europe and the United States.

Participants

Yet another testament to the powerhouse that is Antje Duvekot, “New Wild West” is a sonic and lyrical knockout that marks a newly blazed trail in Duvekot’s songwriting

Yet another testament to the powerhouse that is Antje Duvekot, “New Wild West” is a sonic and lyrical knockout that marks a newly blazed trail in Duvekot’s songwriting career, celebrating the mid-life transition into a greater sense of self.

Yet another testament to the powerhouse that is Antje Duvekot, New Wild West” is a sonic and lyrical knockout that marks a newly blazed trail in Duvekot’s songwriting career, celebrating the mid-life transition into a greater sense of self.

Participants include Professor Poddubnaya ’s students and others who have met her at master classes and competitions in the U.S. and in Europe, or have been recommended to her by their teachers.

The

Recorded by her friend, Mark Erelli, it is considered by some to be her best in her 20plus year career.

Recorded by her friend, Mark Erelli, it is considered by some to be her best in her 20plus year career.

The HAYLOFT has been honored to host one of these performances each year.

Recorded by her friend, Mark Erelli, it is considered by some to be her best in her 20plus year career.

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Busk Photo)

95 Sanborns Grove Road, Bridgton, ME