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Serving Bridgton and the surrounding towns of Western Maine since 1870.

Vol. 146, No. 49

28 PAGES - 4 Sections

Bridgton, Maine

December 3, 2015

(USPS 065-020)

Weather . . . . . . . . . . . 4D

www.bridgton.com

SEVENTY-FIVE CENTS

FD rift healed with meeting of the minds

POINT — Richard Merritt, a former school board director from Sebago, supports repurposing Crooked River to alleviate overcrowding at Songo Locks, but feels SAD 61 should use a plan considered when he was on the school board that would cost over $500,000 and get Grades 3-5 into the facility quicker.

COUNTERPOINT — Laura Ordway, a former school board member from Bridgton, supports the proposed $9.6 million renovation/construction at CRES. She reminded Sebago residents that despite deep state cuts in aid to SAD 61 over the last decade, the district has kept Sebago Elementary open.

(Rivet Photos)

Plan heads to polls

Mixed views expressed at Tuesday hearing on proposed CRES project

By Wayne E. Rivet Staff Writer As residents across SAD 61 took turns at the microphone Tuesday night, at the final public hearing regarding the $9.6 million proposed Crooked River School renovation and construction proposal, varying positions were voiced: • Friends of Sebago Elementary supporters reiterated their position that they agree a solution is needed to address overcrowding at Songo Locks School.

Repurposing Crooked River — back to an elementary school — addresses the problem, but “Friends” members feel the school district can spend under $1 million to prep the facility and move students back into the Route 11 building by next fall.

“Friends” spokeswoman Denise

Olsen put it simply, “Too big, too much money.”

Former Sebago school board member Richard Merritt felt a plan the district considered back in 2013, to renovate the facility for a cost of under $600,000, was a more palatable plan than to shoulder already stressed taxpayers with another huge bond payment over the next 20 years.

Allen Crabtree noted that by a 5-2 vote on Feb. 3, 2013, directors approved spending $468,914 to renovate CRES, and later the figure was increased to $557,314. The vote was later rescinded, and the district went back to the drawing board.

The underlying concern voiced several times by Sebago residents was a facility constructed to hold 350 students — 90 more than the projected

enrollment of three grades set to occupy CRES in 2017 — could lead to the closure of their community school.

Again, SAD 61 Superintendent Al Smith refuted the claim that he had recommended closure of Sebago Elementary if the Crooked River project passed. He again stated he “valued small schools” and reiterated there have been no formal board discussions about closure.

• PDT architect Steve Blatt gave a quick overview of the project, noting the facility is in dire need of upgrades to meet today’s current standards, such as classroom size from the existing 600 square feet to the current minimum of 800 square feet. The plan calls for 27,000 square feet of renovated space (cost $2,785,000) and the addition of PROJECT, Page 8A

Resident happy with ‘Children at Play’ sign

THE CHILDREN AT PLAY sign was put up by the Town of Casco this fall. However, the selectmen decided not to petition the Maine Department of Transportation (MDOT) for a posted speed limit on Millstream Terrace because the sign won’t change behavior and enforcement of the law will be difficult. (De Busk Photo)

By Dawn De Busk Staff Writer CASCO — On the Saturday before Thanksgiving, the letters arrived in the mail.

Residents on Millstream Terrace were notified that the Casco Board of Selectmen had decided not to pursue posting a speed limit on the public easement.

However, the town supplied and erected three signs on the road. One sign says, “Children at Play” and another informs drivers that Millstream Terrace is not a through road. Additionally, a dead-end sign was placed on the post above the street

‘Dog on beach’ correction

In last week’s edition, a front-page story entitled, “Naples prevails in dog on beach challenge,” included incorrect statements.

First, the story wrongly stated that Christian Thompson of Naples had provided his son a service dog when confronted on the Naples beach on June 10, 2014, and that his son “has anxiety issues.” The dog was Mr. Thompson’s and it is an emotional support dog.

Secondly, the story in its concluding paragraph said, “Thompson was working with the dog to train it to nudge or bark at his son when his son was upset, to provide a window of distraction to allow the child to regain a sense of clarity and calm.”

The Maine Human Rights Commission report states, “The complainant (Christian Thompson) trained his dog to nudge him or bark at him when complainant gets worked up or upset thereby diverting his attention to his dog and giving him time to calm down and focus.”

Mr. Thompson informed The News that he is “helping train dogs” to assist people suffering from anxiety, emotional problems and post-traumatic stress disorders.

Once registered, he said, the dogs can accompany people anywhere they travel.

The News regrets the errors, and any inconvenience it may have caused Mr. Thompson.

— Wayne E. Rivet, Publisher

name sign.

By law, only the Maine Department of Transportation (MDOT) can authorize a posted speed limit on roads.

The Casco citizen who brought the problem of speeding on this residential road to the town’s attention said she is pleased with the signs that have been put up.

Earlier this fall, she had asked other residents, grandparents and parents, to support the request for a posted speed limit sign. The effort was to reduce speeding on the road — something about which students walking home from the bus stop had complained, she said.

Closer to home, her threeyear-old grandson rides his ATV with his father, she said.

More than once, the two have been forced to move off the road for vehicles that wouldn’t slow down or didn’t have time to brake, she said.

Another neighbor has a preschool-aged grandson who spends time at her home, in her yard. She put a handwritten sign that said “Slow down” on her mailbox.

According to Town Manager Dave Morton putting up signs and posting a speed limit does not solve the problem.

“I am not minimizing the CHILDREN, Page 2A

By Gail Geraghty Staff Writer A major healing is taking place of relations between Bridgton’s Volunteer Fire Department and the Board of Selectmen.

It began with the board’s recent acceptance of a study that used dry statistics and data gathering to paint a picture of firefighting needs in town, now and in the future.

But the really big boost came on Nov. 11, when Selectmen Greg Watkins and Bob McHatton met with fire department members to hear their concerns.

“They were as happy to see us there as we were to be there,” Watkins said at the board’s Nov. 24 meeting. “We met for two hours, and talked about many different issues — fire prevention, technology at their stations, efforts at morale.”

Watkins wrote four pages of minutes detailing those discussions. Here are some of the highlights: Firefighters speak • Firefighters were “devastated” when funding for a recognition banquet was cut from the budget last year, and explained the importance of recognizing the sacrifices they make, especially for

their families’ sake. It’s also important as a time to recognize years of service and accomplishments in terms of professional development.

The volunteer banquet, open to all town volunteers, just isn’t as appropriate, or held at the most convenient time, they said.

• The training space used by firefighters is substandard, with a “dust-covered plywood” floor and “hanging wires from the ceiling.”

There’s also no air conditioning, making training very uncomfortable in the summer.

• Firefighters were also dismayed when the allowance for food purchases during fire calls was cut from the budget. “Members are not scheduled and cannot plan for when they will be called out,” Watkins wrote in the minutes.

• He said members feel they are seen in the same light as official town department employees, when they are not. “The members of the department are working a full-time job, then leaving their families and homes to volunteer at trainings, calls, community events, fire prevention duties, etc.”

FD RIFT, Page 3A

By Gail Geraghty Staff Writer Bridgton Selectmen are strongly urging anyone who wants to see the granite stones on the Moose Pond Causeway preserved to attend a public meeting set for Tuesday, Dec. 15, from 5 to 6:30 p.m. at the Bridgton Municipal Complex.

At the board’s Nov. 24 meeting, Chairman Bernie King said the upcoming public meeting is the town’s last hope of convincing Maine Department of Transportation officials not to replace the stone blocks with a metal guardrail as part of a highway improvement project.

MDOT already held a meeting in Bridgton on Nov. 16, attended with town officials and two citizens, but that meeting wasn’t advertised as required under Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act, King said. When he and others at that meeting realized MDOT wasn’t interested in discussing alternatives to a metal guardrail, they decided to force the issue and require a second meeting that would be publicly advertised.

“It was very plain they weren’t interested in any other alternative to removing those blocks,” said King of MDOT engineers. Also present were representatives from the Federal Highway Administration, Maine Historic Preservation and Bridgton Historical Society.

“We came away from that meeting very disheartened with the attitude of MDOT.” King said MDOT sum-

marily dismissed several suggestions to satisfy MDOT’s safety concerns, while at the same time preserving the scenic stones that line both sides of the Route 302 highway overlooking Moose Pond.

Alternatives included lowering the speed limit and/or creating a no-passing zone, and narrowing the shoulder so that cars cannot be parked on the Causeway.

“In the state of Maine, you can’t pass on a bridge, yet they have a dotted line (along the Causeway, a type of bridge), so they’re violating the law in that aspect,” he said. King said, when the state engineers kept citing the potential for serious accidents without a guardrail system in place, he brought up how, when he served as a Bridgton Police Officer, the granite stones actually stopped a tractor trailer from going into the water, “They brushed that aside,” said King. “So that’s why this public meeting is very, very important. If we come away from it, and they’re still going to do it, well, at least we tried. That’s part of Bridgton’s history, they were put in there in 1953, and there’s been no problem with them at all.”

The FHA has stated that the Causeway is eligible for inclusion on the National Register of Historic Places.

Some residents, including Dr. Bruce Clary, have argued that eligibility gives a strong reason for MDOT to make an exception to its standard policy of straight guardrail STONE, Page 3A

‘Stone’ support needed at hearing

The Bridgton News Established 1870

P.O. Box 244, 118 Main St. Bridgton, ME 04009 207-647-2851 Fax: 207-647-5001 bnews@roadrunner.com

Area news

Page 2A, The Bridgton News, December 3, 2015

Naples to lease land to Great Northern docks

By Dawn De Busk Staff Writer NAPLES — A longtime local business will lease storage space from the Town of Naples.

The leasing of townowned land to Great Northern Docks was already approved at the Town Meeting in June.

However, residents voted to allow the town to enter into a multi-year lease contract on the property formerly known as the Begin Estate.

The owner of Great Northern Docks would prefer a smaller space that is closer to the business’s property line.

So, until Town Meeting 2016, the town manager will work out a lease agreement with Great Northern Docks’ owner Sam Merriam.

Truck home for the holidays

By Dawn De Busk Staff Writer NAPLES — A 2008 Rosenbauer Urban Interface fire truck will be coming home — to its new home in Naples, Maine — for the holidays.

How it will arrive is yet to be determined. That decision is based on the cheapest way home.

“We’re waiting on prices to come back. We’re leaning towards having it shipped” since that might be the least expensive method, Naples Fire Chief Chris Pond said on Tuesday.

Prior to Thanksgiving, the Town of Naples’ fire department and Brindlee Mountain Fire Apparatus LLC entered into a sales agreement. The purchase cost of $195,000 included some mechani-

“What we would store is either stacks of new product or a couple of storage containers,” Merriam said on Tuesday.

“In the long term, we would move onto our own land once we develop it in the back of the lot. Our storage needs right now aren’t huge.

So, the temporary storage on the town’s land is a good fit,” Merriam said.

Paraschak said that most likely the town would waive

The 2008 Rosenbauer Urban Interface fire apparatus was purchased by the Naples Fire and Rescue Department.

(Photo courtesy of Ephrem Paraschak) cal work such as repairing a U-joint, stopping some antifreeze leaks and a few other small items, according to Naples Town Manager Ephrem Paraschak.

Currently, the 2008 fire apparatus is at the manufactor’s repair shop, which is located in Colorado, Pond said.

The chief said he had been informed the truck should be road ready by the first week of December.

Most likely, the new pumper will be more versitle than the old one, Pond said.

The truck that is being retired and sold is a forest water-pumper truck, he said.

It was most effective when putting out wildfires, he said.

The 2008 pumper truck “can also respond to house

fires. The usage of this (new) vehicle will increase over the old vehicle,” he said.

“Until we get it here and get it equipped — I won’t know. But, it may be the vehicle that we sends on mutual aid calls,” Pond said.

Since the price of the replacement fire apparatus was lower than anticipated, there is still money left over in the Pumper Reserve Fund to outfit it, according to Paraschak said.

There was $230,000 in the Pumper Reserve Fund. That was the amount the Naples Board of Selectmen approved during a Nov. 16 meeting.

One cost of outfitting the truck will be the purchase

of three airpacks. The airpacks have a combined cost of approximately $14,000.

According to both Paraschak and Pond, one big plus is that enough money had been set aside for the purchase.

If the cost of the pumper had been more than what had saved in the reserve account, a Special Town Meeting would have been required in order for residents to approve extra funding. That won’t need to happen since the cost was within the existing budget.

There are some photos of the truck on the Naples Fire & Rescue Facebook page, according to Paraschak.

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voted at the town meeting to let us lease the property that the town bought, where the well was contaminated with salt,” Merriam said.

“We thought about cost of building a road to get to it.

That’s a lot of money for a three-year lease. Years would fly by, and if the town wanted to develop that land, we would have an investment in the gravel road,” he said.

“We looked at the land behind the fire house and our property. It would make more sense to put gravel down right off our pavement. We wouldn’t have the expense of a long road going across the property. The gravel would remain the town’s property,” Merriam said.

The section of land is

toward the back of the lot and between sand shed and the leech field. The vegetation consists of overgrown alders that until now have acted as a buffer.

“We recognize that because we are close neighbors with the fire station, we have a reciprocal relationship,” Merriam said.

“There have been times when the fire department needs a forklift to move something, and we use our forklift to help them,” he said.

Additionally, prior to the Naples Fire Association’s comedy night fundraiser, fire trucks were moved to Great Northern Docks’ parking lot, which provided more parking space at the fire station for people attending the event.

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(Continued from Page 1A) request of these residents,” Morton said.

“The issue of speeding traffic is one we have on every single road in Casco. Children are playing on every road in Casco,” he said.

The selectmen agreed that if they supported the posting of a speed limit on one rural road, other residents would want the same for their roads.

According to Morton, MDOT representatives do not recommend posting speed limits on residential roads for two reasons: Human behavior and the enforcement component.

“The Department of Transportation refuses to put up ‘children at play’ signs. They tell the public it does no good,” Morton said.

“And, it gives parents peace of mind, where they not should have it,” he said.

Drivers on familiar roads don’t “see” the signs after driving by them several times.

“With local traffic, people become blind to those signs,” he said, adding the signs only temporarily change behavior.

“The concern is that people will expect enforcement. The Cumberland County Sherriff’s Office (CCSO) cannot set up a speed trap on a one-tenth mile-long road,” he said.

Morton said some residents insinuated that vehicles sped to the end of the road and back, looking for a connecting road to Leach Hill Road. He said GPS and MapQuest showed there was no such road.

At the time, a home on the road was for sale, which might account for more traffic than usual.

Still, on an almost daily basis, there are tire marks that indicate a driver floored the gas pedal, spinning the back tires before picking up speed at the beginning of the road, according to one resident.

When the board decided not to petition the MDOT for a speed limit sign, it instructed Morton to send letters to those community members.

“Can we send a letter to the homeowners on the road to express the concern? Instead of a speed limit sign, an acknowledgement that this road should be driven on slowly,” Selectman Grant Plummer said.

The contents of the letter included why the request had been denied.

Also, residents were advised to call the Cumberland County Sheriff’s (CCSO) office and report drivers who are acting recklessly or speeding.

“Driving recklessly could happen at slower speeds, too.

(The deputy could) issue warnings based on complaints that they received,” Morton said.

THE BRIDGTON NEWS

Sunday Worship 9:30 A.M. Sunday School 11:05 A.M. Visit us online ~ www.pmopc.org

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Town Meeting is required.

On Nov. 16, the Naples Board of Selectmen voted, 4-0, to give Paraschak the go-ahead to enter into a short-term lease agreement.

Selectman Rich Cebra was not present since he was recovering from surgery.

Also, as part of the motion, the board requested that Great Northern Dock be responsible for the insurance coverage for the space.

“Originally, the town

‘Children at Play’

Kathleen of Bridgton

Facials

the cost of leasing the land because Great Northern Docks would pay to have a gravel pad installed.

“Sam is proposing to build a gravel pad. We would lease the space in trade for the gravel work,” Paraschak said.

Legally, the town can lease land or buildings for a period of one year without residents’ approval. Therefore, if parties are interested in contracts that span more time than one year — a majority vote at the

52 Portland Road, Bridgton, Maine • 207-647-2030 www.bridgtoneyecare.com CareCredit®

Publisher & Editor.............................................Wayne E. Rivet Staff Writers...............................Gail Geraghty, Dawn De Busk Advertising ..........................Eric C. Gulbrandsen, Ken Murphy Circulation & Classified.........................Elaine Rioux, Manager Production......................................Sonja Millett, Brad Hooper ...........................................................................Lorena Plourd The 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

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Area news

December 3, 2015, The Bridgton News, Page 3A

Science Center open house

After six years of preparation, the Lakes Environmental Association’s new Maine Lake Science Center in the heart of Bridgton is now open.

In case you haven’t been fortunate enough to see this unique facility, there will be two open houses for the public this month. They will be held Thursday, Dec. 10 from 4 to 6 p.m. and Friday, Dec. 11 from 12 to 4 p.m. There will be a tour and refreshments will be served.

The Center features a 50-seat conference room, laboratory, housing for

FD rift healed with meeting of the minds work needs to be done in commercial/industrial locations, which will help the town with emergency preparedness and help the businesses meet their insurance requirements. “The current fire prevention officer is disappointed and not supported to do the job,” Watkins wrote.

Last year’s total budget for fire prevention was $800, a figure not sufficient to do the job, even in buying educational materials. “This year, the open house that was held on Halloween alone exhausted the materials and budget allowed for (fire prevention) for this year.”

• In terms of equipment, firefighters no longer see the need to buy a mini-pumper or a second airboat, and they want selectmen to be aware of that at budget time. What is needed, they said, is a suitable vehicle to tow the ATV trailer and airboat, as well as to serve as a safety vehicle.

Fire Chief Glen Garland said the Cumberland County Fire Chief’s Association is looking into ways for towns to buy state and federal vehicles.

Selectmen speak Watkins and McHatton,

for their part, had a few ideas and concerns of their own: • Selectmen would like to know in advance of vacancies in the ranks of officers in the department. “Many positions within the department as far as officers have been vacated and not filled, because of the uncertainty of the direction the BOS was looking in with regard to a full-time fire chief,” the minutes stated.

They told firefighters there are no plans to move forward at this time with a full-time chief, “and that it most likely is not going to be in the immediate future.”

• The town needs to research rates of per-diem pay for firefighters in other towns, along with call volume, and then come up with a stipend plan that makes sense. The town also needs to determine how those individuals would be supervised.

• The success of Assistant Fire Chief Todd Perreault in recently securing a $26,000 grant for radios makes it clear that the town ought to pursue the hiring of a full-time grantwriter. McHatton made this recommendation official when the Board of Selectmen met on Nov. 24.

The Board of Directors of the Upper Saco Valley Land Trust is delighted to announce the election and appointment of two new members, Tyler Ray and Rick Jenkinson.

Originally from nearby Bridgton, Ray returned to the Mt. Washington Valley in the summer of 2014 joining the law firm Cooper Cargill Chant, PA as a real estate and business attorney. Ray’s primary areas of practice include business and real estate transactions, including efforts in land conservation, agriculture and recreation. Cooper Cargill Chant is northern New Hampshire’s largest law firm offering a wide array of legal services to hundreds of small businesses, nonprofits and associations and thousands of individual clients all throughout northern New Hampshire and western Maine. The firm has assisted in and championed some of the largest conservation projects in the Mount Washington Valley and Western Maine.

Ray spent the past 10 years practicing law in Providence,

of concern that that town brought to the table.”

Selectman Bob McHatton, who brought up the issue, also urged residents to come voice their concerns at the Dec. 15 meeting. But he said it appears certain a guardrail

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PUBLIC HEARING

The application is available for viewing at the Bridgton Town Office during regular office hours of Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

All interested individuals are invited to attend at the above place and time to present any comments.

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While in Providence and here in the Mt. Washington Valley, Ray is recognized by SuperLawyers as a “Rising Star” (2012-2015) and was a recipient of Providence Business News’ “Forty under 40” award for career accomplishments and community service.

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2015 Christmas Tree Sale Bridgton Volunteer Fire Dept. will be selling Christmas Trees starting Friday, Nov. 27 at the Food City parking lot (295 Main Street). After opening day, hours of availability will be Thursday and Friday 4 to 8 p.m.; Saturday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Sunday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

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An Administrative Appeal filed by Robert and Rita Tyszka, 55 Raspberry Lane, Bridgton, Maine 04009, regarding the Bridgton Planning Board’s November 3, 2015 approval of the Bridgton Bottled Gas Application for one aboveground 30,000-gallon bulk plant liquefied petroleum (propane) storage tank at their existing fuel storage and dispensing facility located at 4 Raspberry Lane/Portland Road, Bridgton, Maine 04009, on property owned by Douglas S. Holt and Todd E. Perreault, known as Bridgton Tax Map 6 Lot 24I.

R.I. There, he was a longserving board member and secretary of Farm Fresh Rhode Island, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit focused on creating a local food system in the Rhode Island and southern New England region.

With his roots here in the Valley, Ray has long been an avid outdoor enthusiast always looking for the next big adventure whether by ski, bike or foot.

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The Bridgton Board of Appeals will conduct a Public Hearing at the Bridgton Town Office, 10 Iredale St., Bridgton, Maine 04009, on Thursday, December 17, 2015, at 7:15 p.m. to consider the following:

will be installed on both sides of the Causeway.

“I’ll tell you right now that the state pretty much told us point blank that they are going to put in a guardrail,” McHatton said. “The question is, what type of guardrail, how many stones are going to be left out there, and how the whole Causeway will look after they’re all done.”

McHatton noted that MDOT recently agreed to extend a two-way center turning lane on Route 302 to Brag Way, in response to concerns expressed at a meeting in Bridgton attended by several selectmen and representatives from Macdonald Motors.

“So, as you saw with (that), the more people who come out, the state may be willing to work with the town and come up with the best solution,” he said.

Social media also ought to be utilized to spread the word about the meeting, said Selectman Ken Murphy, suggesting a campaign of “Spread the word — keep the stones at Moose Pond Causeway.”

Tyler Ray

Robert E. Fogg Naples, Maine 693-3831

‘Stone’ support needed

(Continued from Page 1A) replacement during highway reconstruction projects.

Town Manager Bob Peabody also noted that the minutes produced by MDOT of the Nov. 16 meeting “don’t accurately portray the level

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(Continued from Page 1A) • Firefighters regularly hold potluck gatherings at the Central Station, before meetings or trainings or to boost morale. “They would love to see more town administration join them more often for dinner, and to see what they do.”

• In terms of technology, the firefighters said the one office they have is used for record-keeping including confidential records and is not usable by officers for their own record-keeping and data entry. One of the strong recommendations of the fire department study was for more planning, tracking and recordkeeping. “The only laptop that is available is the chief’s, when he is not using it.” The firefighters would like to see the town provide another office space and a few more laptops.

• The town’s credit card for use by department heads often gets used up in terms of its monthly credit limit, which makes it difficult to get such items as parts for radios or other miscellaneous supplies. Why not assign a separate card to each department head, they asked.

• More fire prevention

sionals, the business community, and the public to promote knowledge to action to protect and preserve our natural resources.

Tel: 647-3318 Directions: From Route 302, turn at the light at McDonald’s and Hannaford onto Willett Road. Go past the Bridgton Public Works garage on the right and cross the bridge over Willett Brook. Right past the bridge, there is a parking lot for Pondicherry Park on the right. The Center’s driveway is at the edge of the parking area.

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OPEN HOUSES at the new Lakes Environmental Association Maine Lake Science Center are scheduled for next Thursday and Friday, Dec. 10-11. The public is invited to visit the new center.

researchers, and office space.

The 18-acre wooded lot sits adjacent to Pondicherry Park and is connected to its trail system via a new boardwalk.

The purpose of the Center is to build collaborations and networking within the scientific community and provide researchers with facilities to attract them to Western Maine for the purpose of studying and preserving Maine’s lakes. The Center will also provide expanded opportunities for watershed education programs serving students, land use profes-

Page 4A, The Bridgton News, December 3, 2015

Police news

From the Bridgton Police blotter Fryeburg PD These items appeared on the Fryeburg Police Department log (this is a partial listing): Tuesday, November 24 6:15 a.m. Police responded to a Portland Street business after an alarm sounded.

Wednesday, November 25 9:20 a.m. An alarm sounded at a Main Street business.

9:45 a.m. Police assisted Fryeburg Rescue with a call at the transfer station.

6 p.m. A disturbance on Charles Street was reported.

Thursday, November 26 7:50 a.m. Police assisted Fryeburg fire personnel with a call on Main Street.

9:58 a.m. Police assisted Fryeburg Rescue with a call on Charles Street.

7:40 p.m. Police assisted Fryeburg Rescue with a call on Lovell Road.

Friday, November 27 12:15 p.m. Jacob Brown, 20, of Center Lovell was charged with theft by unauthorized taking or transfer following an alleged incident at a Bridgton Road business.

10:07 p.m. Police checked the state Information Center after receiving a report of suspicious activity there.

Saturday, November 28 12:38 a.m. John Louis Mezzanottee III, 39, of Stow was stopped on Main Street and charged with operating a motor vehicle while under the influence.

10:12 p.m. Police assisted the Oxford Sheriff’s Office with a call on Sweden Road.

Sunday, November 29 1:30 a.m. Police handled a civil issue.

ty damage occurred near the corner of South High Street and Swamp Road.

9:21 p.m. Officers Muise and Smolinsky responded to a dispute between a mother and daughter on South High Street.

Tuesday, November 24 11:34 a.m. A woman, driving a white four-door sedan, was driving all over the road on Route 302 near Willis Park Road, headed toward Naples.

11:44 a.m. Officers Jones and Welsh were on the lookout for a silver four-door car being driven by a man who lost his license and was under the influence of medication and alcohol.

1:53 p.m. Officer Jones assisted the animal control officer with a barking dog complaint on Sarah’s Way. 7:26 p.m. What was thought to be someone shooting off a gun from a deck on South High Street turned out to be a furnace problem.

7:16 p.m. Officer Hammond was called in to help locate a man who took a taxi from Memorial Hospital in North Conway, N.H. to Bridgton Hospital, but never came into the hospital.

Wednesday, November 25 12:04 a.m. Two young men were sitting on the side of the road photographing the moon near the corner of North High Street and Sam Ingalls Road.

9:10 a.m. Officer Jones searched for a Bridgton man driving a Ford Ranger who had mental health issues.

11:26 a.m. A flagger working at the Route 302 construction site in West Bridgton reported a Subaru who failed to yield.

11:27 a.m. Officer Jones responded to a single-vehicle crash near the Irving Station on Portland Road, in which a trailer came unhitched from a Chevy Silverado.

11:35 a.m. A driver lost control of his vehicle and slid off the road near Kansas Road and Friendship Acres.

11:41 a.m. Someone may have

tried to gain entry into a Pinhook Road home through a bulkhead that had been chained and locked but was found open, along with the cellar door.

2:51 p.m. Someone was putting their trash in a Lakeside Condos dumpster even though they don’t live there.

5:58 p.m. A gray Nissan Pathfinder with New Hampshire plates was reported stolen from the Hannaford parking lot.

5:58 p.m. Officer Gaumont was on the lookout for a vehicle headed toward Bridgton from Harrison that was all over the road, crossing from lane to lane.

7:28 p.m. A store clerk reported a disturbance at the Big Apple on Main Street.

9:49 p.m. Officer Gaumont returned to the scene of the burglary on Pinhook Road to document additional evidence that someone had been inside the home.

Thursday, November 26 10:21 a.m. What was called in as a domestic violence incident on Main Street may have been a dispute between neighbors.

5:47 p.m. Officer Gaumont responded to a report of gunshots heard on Hio Ridge Road, but it turned out to be fireworks.

6:16 p.m. Another report came in of gunshots that turned out to be fireworks in the area of Hio Ridge Road on Carissa Drive.

7:14 p.m. An 18-year-old male was reportedly out of control at a Church Street residence.

Friday, November 27 12:08 p.m. Two large dogs were on the loose in the area of Sweden and Christmas Tree Roads. Their owner came and retrieved them.

12:16 p.m. A woman reported a longstanding problem of a pit bull that has been running around unleashed in BLOTTER, Page 5A

BPD drive sober campaign underway

The Bridgton Police or Get Pulled Over” cam- number of patrols and possiDepartment has joined in paign this holiday season, bly setting up roadblocks to with a national “Drive Sober and will be increasing the search for and arrest drunk drivers.

The stepped-up enforcement period designated by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration runs from Dec. 16 to Jan. 1. In addition to reminding all drivers to drive sober, Police Chief Richard Stillman is asking residents to call 911 if they see a drunk driver on the road.

“It’s time for all drivers to get the message,” Stillman said. “Drunk driving is a choice you make, and when you make that choice, people get hurt or die.”

The safest way to get home from a holiday party

or restaurant, Stillman said, is to drive sober or catch a ride with a sober designated driver. The NHTSA also has a SaferRide mobile app, which allows users to call a taxi or a friend by identifying their location so they can be picked up.

In 2013, 10,076 people were killed in crashes involving a drunk driver, according to NHTSA. In December 2013 alone, there were 733 people killed in crashes involving at least one driver or motorcycle operator with a blood alcohol concentration of .08 or higher. Twenty-three of those deaths occurred on Christmas Day. Those caught drinking SOBER, Page 5A

NO-SHAVE NOVEMBER — Some members of the Bridgton Police Department, including Officer Phil Jones, grew out their beards last month to take part in “No-Shave November,” a campaign that’s become popular in recent years to raise awareness about cancer prevention and treatment.

Fire House chatter

By Jay Spenciner Guest Writer I recently sat down with Chief Dana Laplante of the Harrison Fire Department.

JS: How long have you been in the Harrison Fire Department and what interested you in joining?

DL: Twenty-seven years this December. My dad was assistant chief here in Harrison.

JS: How does your family feel about your time away from them?

DL: My wife, Kelly, and the four kids are very supportive. Kelly is also in the fire department. The older kids are very good at watching the youngest if we both get called out. Sometimes, if I have to go out on a call right after I get home, Kate-Lynn, 9, gets disappointed.

She is the youngest. The oldest is at the University of Maine at Farmington.

JS: What are your best memories of your time in the fire service?

DL: I’ve met so many different people from different fire departments and learned many new things and then bring new ideas back here. It is very rewarding. I sometimes learn what we don’t want to do.

JS: What are your worst memories?

DL: Being a paramedic, my worst memories were any calls involving kids. You can always replace property, but not lives. About three years ago, we had a call concerning a child. An infant drowned in a bathtub.

I had a tough time processing this because Kate-Lynn was only a little older.

JS: I know where you’re coming from. Before we moved to Bridgton 35 years ago, I was crew chief on a volunteer ambulance in upstate New York and having CHATTER, Page 5A

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These incidents appeared on the Bridgton Police Department blotter between the dates of Monday, Nov. 23 and Monday, Nov. 29: Monday, November 23 5:17 p.m. An accident with proper-

Area news

December 3, 2015, The Bridgton News, Page 5A

Drive sober effort

Fire House chatter

(Continued from Page 4A) young kids then, I really dreaded having calls involving children.

What is the biggest challenge facing the fire service today?

DL: The amount of training required to do what we do. There is so much required now. It seems like it was so much easier 27 years ago. With today’s pressures of work and family, it seems like there’s so much required especially for interior firefighting.

They (the Bureau of Labor Standards) keep adding more on to what we need. On top of that, they require us to spend half a year doing mandatories, which take away from the stuff we need to do to do our jobs effectively. It should be figured out what’s really important for our line of work and not just what somebody wants us to do. Some of our mandatories — like hazmat awareness, for example — why are we doing that every year? Do things change so drastically in a year? Maybe we could do it every other year. And you and I as firemen are required to refresh on sexual harassment every year. Maybe every two or three years would be okay. It’s important to find a happy medium.

You know, I have an EMS (emergency medical service) license and I’m only required to relicense every three years and I have the ability to save someone’s life. Training is the biggest issue.

JS: What will be different about the Harrison Fire Department in 10 years?

DL: I honestly think that Harrison, like most other departments, will be forced to have per diem firefighters (they stay at the station for eight hours or so and are paid). We don’t have much manpower during the day. We have half a dozen or a dozen older guys. I can see some of them retiring in the near future. Harrison, like all other towns, is very dependent on help from nearby towns for major calls (mutual aid).

It also wouldn’t surprise me to see full-time county firefighters in the future, serving an area from a station and paid for with county tax dollars.

JS: I’ve been at your station several times for coverage when you guys were called to another town to help. Your station is impressive. To be honest, I’m jealous of it. When and how did it get built?

DL: Around 1991, some of the guys started talking with the town about a new station. The town provided the land. There were a lot of donations and fundraising. People in town, contractors, electricians and others donated their time, labor and materials. I believe it was built in 1992. This is one of the last fire stations in the area built on the backs of the townspeople. I mean their blood, sweat and tears went into this building, not just their tax dollars. Over the years, we’ve put a little work into sprucing it up, but not much money. It has held up very well.

JS: The people of Harrison should feel very proud of this station.

Most of the fire departments in this area and throughout Maine and the country are getting really low on volunteers. Is Harrison in the same boat?

DL: Absolutely. I have a set crew around during the day and the average age is 65. We could use people to direct traffic, drive trucks, do interior work, anything.

JS: How would anyone get more information on joining the Harrison Fire Department?

DL: If they know a firefighter, they could talk to that person. We train the second Tuesday of each month and we have a business meeting usually followed by a little training on the fourth Monday of each month at the station. Anybody possibly interested in joining is welcome to come to either of these.

JS: Thanks Dana.

• Support your local firefighters by buying a Christmas tree. Bridgton F.D. has them for sale at Food City.

• Next column will have some of my experiences meeting firefighters in other countries, Poland, Singapore, the Philippines and China, among others.

From Bridgton Police blotter (Continued from Page 4A) the area of Mountain Road and Mt. Henry Road.

12:21 p.m. A woman wanted police to fingerprint a cup filled with alcohol that she said she found in her car.

1:47 p.m. A pink wallet was reported either lost or stolen during a shopping trip to the Family Dollar and Rite Aid. 3:35 p.m. Two men were issued civil summonses for trespassing while hunting.

6:22 p.m. A clerk at the Big Apple on Portland Road could not get the person inside the bathroom to

respond.

9:03 p.m. A man at the Bridgton Hospital Emergency Room had no way to get home and could not locate any homeless shelters able to help him.

Saturday, November 28 8:42 a.m. Someone turned in a man’s wallet, and the owner retrieved it.

11:10 a.m. A Wayside Avenue resident was reportedly assaulted.

12:30 p.m. Someone threw eggs at several houses on Highland Road.

3:21 p.m. A hit and run accident was reported in the town parking lot on Depot

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GUEST SPEAKER — On Wednesday, Nov. 4, State Representative Nathan J. Wadsworth of Hiram spoke to more than 80 Realtors at the Western Maine Board of Realtors Annual Meeting. Rep. Wadsworth, a Realtor with the Maine Real Estate Network in Standish, serves as the House Chairman on the Energy Committee. Connie Eldridge, president of the Western Maine Board, swore in two new Realtors — Jamie McIver of At the Lakes Real Estate and Mary Sohl from Anne Plummer & Associates.

After the meeting, held at the Olde Mill Tavern in Harrison, a continuing education class covering new legislation and regulations was held.

(Continued from Page 4A) and driving could face jail time, fines, loss of driver’s license, towing fees, and other OUI expenses, totaling $10,000 on average. Some people think that if they get pulled over for driving drunk, they can just refuse a breath test to avoid the OUI charge.

“Not true,” said Chief Stillman. “In Maine, refusing a breath test means an automatic arrest, and the loss of your driver’s license on the spot.” The only way to truly avoid an OUI is to drive sober or designate a sober driver ahead of time.

Stillman added that there are other options, such as calling a friend, family member, or calling a taxi.

The cost of cab fare is nothing compared to a $10,000 OUI or the cost of someone’s life.

“We can’t stand to see this tragic loss of life again and again,” added Chief Stillman. “The hardest part of the job is making that house call and telling a family that their loved one is gone because someone chose to drink and drive.

That’s why, leading up to the holidays, we will show zero tolerance for drunk drivers on the road. Please find a safe and sober ride home.”

Street.

5:07 p.m. A person was hit in the face on Main Street by an unknown man wearing a black hoodie.

9:54 p.m.

Officer Gaumont responded to a report of disorderly conduct at the public works garage.

Sunday, November 29 10:29 a.m. A Willis Park Road resident said someone broke into her vehicle and stole her purse.

2:25 p.m. A woman reported losing her purse

somewhere in Bridgton.

2:43 p.m. A teacher at Stevens Brook Elementary School said she saw two male juveniles trying to break into sheds at the school.

3:13 p.m. Glass in the travel lane of Middle Ridge Road was causing a safety hazard.

7:29 p.m. A South High Street resident said that, sometime sover the weekend, someone stole her jewelry that was given to her by her mother.

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Area news

Page 6A, The Bridgton News, December 3, 2015

Wrapping up items before the holidays

LAKE REGION

MONITOR Authorized Dealer

TIME TO CHUCK A DUCK — Youngsters tried to toss plastic ducks onto a target at midcourt during Lake Region High School’s Alumni basketball game last Wednesday night. Prizes were awarded to those landing their ducks on the target. The competition was a fundraiser for the boys’ varsity basketball team.

(Rivet Photo)

Kudos for Wildwood Road work

By Gail Geraghty Staff Writer The threat of that pesky polluting hitchhiker, otherwise known as phosphorus, has been greatly diminished on Woods Pond, thanks to erosion control work done in September by the Bridgton Public Works Department on Wildwood Road.

Jeff Stern, Woods Pond Erosion Control Project Coordinator, told Bridgton Selectmen Nov. 24 that the 2012 watershed survey identified the section where Sucker

Brook crosses Wildwood Road as “one of the really bad problems we found.”

And what complicated it even more, he said, was that part of the area needing attention is on a public road, and part is on a private road.

In September the town upgraded its part of the road by repaving it and crowning the road. The town also created turnouts and sediment pools to keep the phosphorus in the soil from hitchhiking a ride into Woods Pond via Sucker Brook. Stern said that

prior to the work being done, the soil just washed down the middle of the road.

He showed before and after pictures of the roadway to point out that the road now has the proper shape, with a crown in the middle and ditching to turn out the soil so it settles into the sediment pools.

“Public Works did a really great job,” said Stern. “It’s been a major problem and it’s good to see it addressed.”

The only remaining work is to mulch some of the bare

spots at the top of the back slopes of some of the ditches. “The project has already exceeded its goal,” Stern said.

He said the Wildwood Road Association has also done some good work on their portion of the road. He especially appreciates the efforts made to keep the ditch improvements up to snuff during the snowplowing season, all the way up to the turnaround area.

“Together, each has done their part to deal with a really nasty erosion problem.”

LOVELL — Foresters with the Maine Forest Service and the University of Maine have measured what is believed to be the tallest American chestnut (Castanea dentata) tree in North America, exceeding

the next tallest known tree by a full 20 feet in height.

The 115-foot tall tree is growing in a reserved forest in the town of Lovell on land bequeathed to the University of Maine Foundation. The Volk family owned the

property for more than 100 years prior to donating it to the University Foundation.

Douglas Volk (1856–1935) was a famous American portrait and landscape painter with works found in most American collections. The discovery of this tree is sig-

nificant, as the species has been ravaged by an invasive blight that kills American chestnut trees to the ground.

It is estimated that there are only a few dozen large surviving trees such as this one left in the Maine woods.

The American Chestnut Foundation (TACF) is a nonprofit conservation organization working to restore the American chestnut species to its native range, the eastern woodlands of the United States. Using a backcross breeding process, the Foundation is racing to discover what few remaining native American chestnut trees still exist in an effort to conserve the genetics and to learn about the soils and forest conditions in which they are growing.

The Maine Chapter of The American Chestnut Foundation has partnered with the Barbara Wheatland Geospatial Analysis Laboratory at the University of Maine to use remote sensing from airplanes to help locate unknown trees such as this one.

An official measurement of this tree took place at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 2. TACF President and CEO Lisa Thomson, TACF Geneticist Dr. Jared Westbrook, University of Maine Forest Scientist Dr. Brian Roth, CHESTNUT, Page 7A

Tallest American Chestnut in...

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By Dawn De Busk Staff Writer CASCO — The Casco Board of Selectmen is poised to wrap up some items before the holidays.

Because of when national holidays fell on the calendar and the town manager’s vacation, the board met once in November and it will meet once in December. Therefore, in the spirit of getting town business done, the agendas have been jam packed.

The board will meet on Tuesday, kicking off the evening with two workshops, both of which involve taxes. During the workshop which starts at 6:30 p.m., the board will review recommendations of which taxacquired properties should be sold. Also, selectmen will take another look at legal options for collecting personal property taxes that are in arrears.

During its regular meeting, the board may vote to sell some tax-acquired properties. Those sales will be done through the proposal-for-bids process, which is open to the public. The parcels had already been ferreted out by the Casco Code Enforcement Officer (CEO) Don Murphy and members of the Casco Open Space Commission. So, site walks were done on the properties now owned by the town through the tax lien process.

It had been recommended to the board that parcels with inhabital dwellings be “sold as is,” leaving the buyer responsible for the removal of unsafe buildings within a month or two of purchasing the property.

Another topic on the board agenda is: Loaning money to the local snowmobile club for a winter trail groomer.

In order to purchase a new trail groomer, the club has requested a loan from the town. In November, Bill Symonds, with the Crooked River Snowmobile Club said the group would need between $20,000 and $25,000 to make up the difference between the cost of the machine and what the club has saved.

The loan must be approved by residents at Town Meeting. Since funds are needed this winter, the selectmen will likely vote to have it appear as a Warrant Article during Special Town Meeting in January.

The club is interested in a groomer that is priced at $44,080, according to Symonds. It’s a 2002 Tucker SnoCat with a diesel engine and an automatic transmission.

He said he was confident the club could contribute about $12,000 of its funds.

As suggested by Casco Town Manager Dave Morton, the town can loan the money and be assured of being paid back by keeping the annual snowmobile registration fees.

However, that payback pace is rather slow since fees bring in about $1,500 a year. So, the board ask Symonds to bring a copy of the charter, explaining what happens to old debts if the club ever dissolves.

Symonds was also requested to supply for the December meeting the purchase price, an exact trade-in amount, how much can be withdrawn from club’s bank account, and the amount of donations that are secure.

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Area news

December 3, 2015, The Bridgton News, Page 7A

Poland Spring donates to Fryeburg departments

Help fight hunger

Grants available

Every year, schools and libraries in Loon Echo Land Trust’s service area of Denmark, Bridgton, Harrison, Naples, Casco, Raymond and Sebago are invited to submit grant applications to Loon Echo for environmental programs.

These awards will help Lake Region children learn about the environment and the importance of protecting the region’s land and natural resources.

Loon Echo is pleased to announce that they are accepting applications for these grants now through Jan. 15, 2016.

Applications can be downloaded from Loon Echo’s website at www.LELT.org (under the Programs tab) and returned by the deadline. Recipients will be notified by mid-February of 2016.

Loon Echo Land Trust protects land in the northern Sebago Lake region of Maine to conserve the region’s natural resources and character for current and future generations.

Currently, Loon Echo protects over 5,900 acres of land, owns eight preserves and maintains 25 miles of multi-use trail for public enjoyment.

Please visit www.lelt.org for more information about the grant program, land protection efforts, group hikes and walks, or to become a member. You may also contact Loon Echo Land Trust at info@lelt.org or 647-4352.

SAFETY GRANT — Poland Spring has given $14,000 this year in Good Neighbor Grants to support public safety projects in Fryeburg. Pictured left to right are Fryeburg Police Chief Joshua Potvin, Poland Spring Community Relations Manager Heather Printup, Fryeburg Assistant Deputy Rescue Chief Philip Remington and Fryeburg Fire Chief Ozzie Sheaff.

Tallest Chestnut

(Continued from Page 6A) along with representatives from the Maine Forest Service and the University of Maine Foundation were present.

Once the mighty giants of the eastern forest, American chestnut trees stood up to 100 feet tall, and numbered in the billions. From Maine to Georgia, this tree was a vital component of the eastern forests, providing abundant food for wildlife and serving as an economic staple for humans.

In the beginning of the 20th century, the fungal pathogen responsible for chestnut blight was accidentally imported into the United States from Asia and spread rapidly. By 1950, the fungus had eliminated the American chestnut as a mature forest tree.

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Tyler Ray on board

(Continued from Page 3A) government relations and public affairs consultation for Thermo Fisher’s business leaders globally. Prior to his current position, he was senior director of Global Government Relations at the company.

Before joining Fisher Scientific in 2003, Jenkinson was vice president of Public Relations at AT&T Broadband.

He currently serves as a director on two boards — the New Hampshire Institute of Politics and Piscataqua Savings Bank — and is active in the Appalachian Mountain Club. He currently resides in Portsmouth and Kearsarge. He graduated from the University of New Hampshire in 1979.

“Both Tyler and Rick will be a wonderful addition to our current board of directors,” said Board President Doug Burnell. “Jenkinson’s business and consulting experience, as well as his service with other nonprofits, will be invaluable as USVLT continues to grow, and Ray’s experience with local food systems will lend itself directly to the new community conservation work USVLT is taking on. We are delighted to welcome them aboard.”

The Upper Saco Valley Land Trust is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Its motto is “Preserving Land for Community Benefit.” The Upper Saco Valley Land Trust has completed 51 conservation projects since 2001, totaling almost 8,000 acres throughout the towns of Hart’s Location, Bartlett, Jackson, Albany, Chatham, Conway, Eaton and Madison in New Hampshire, and Brownfield, Denmark and Fryeburg in Maine. For more information, visit www.usvlt. org

EVERGREEN

In 2015, Poland Spring gave Good Neighbor Grants totaling more than $75,000 to Fryeburg-area organizations and causes.

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Hannaford Supermarkets last week announced the 2015 launch of Hannaford Helps Fight Hunger, a charitable campaign focused on helping feed individuals who do not have access to enough nutritious food.

Hannaford Helps Fight Hunger is a partnership between the supermarket and its customers in Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts and New York to provide food and monetary donations to local pantries and regional food banks.

Donations benefit the one in seven Americans – 48 million people — who are “food insecure,” without consistent access to all the nutritious food they need.

“This program makes it convenient for Hannaford customers to support neighbors who are struggling,” said Eric Blom, company spokesman. “At a time when the need continues to grow, Hannaford Helps Fight Hunger allows people to make donations right at the supermarket and purchase food items that trigger matching donations by Hannaford.”

Hannaford Helps Fight Hunger has three parts: • Hannaford Helps Fight Hunger Boxes: Customers purchase a box of food staples for $10, and choose whether to have the box delivered to the local pantry or to donate it personally. With every box purchased, customers receive a coupon book containing $22 in coupons.

• Register Donation: From Nov. 30 to Dec. 30, customers may donate money to their state food bank, in $5 increments, right at the register. Donors will receive a coupon book containing $22 in coupons.

• Buy One, Give One: For four weeks, starting Nov. 22 customers can trigger Hannaford donations to food banks by purchasing a particular product on specific days. For each item purchased, Hannaford will donate an identical product to the state or regional food bank.

Each Hannaford store determines what local food pantries to support. Stores compete with one another to encourage donations, and those supermarkets with the highest level of giving receive additional cash donations from Hannaford to be contributed locally.

“Hannaford works all year to help fight hunger in the communities we serve, with regular donations, awareness efforts and other support,” Blom said. “We are particularly proud of the generosity shown by customers during the holiday season through Hannaford Helps Fight Hunger.”

Fryeburg PD keep residents and visitors safe.”

The Poland Spring grants also funded two scholarships for Emergency Medical Services (EMS) personnel to help the Rescue Dept. expand their volunteer program, and a portion of the grant was used to help sponsor the community bicycle helmet program.

The Fryeburg Fire Department received funds that will assist in the purchase of a Utility Task Vehicle (UTV), a four-wheel drive offroad vehicle used to fight fires in wooded and forested areas.

The new, four-passenger UTV — also called a side-by-side — will transport firefighters and equipment to areas not accessible by fire trucks.

“Poland Spring’s commitment is always to be a good neighbor to the people of Fryeburg. When we learned of these public safety needs, we wanted to do our part to help.

We’re proud to invest here,” said Mark Dubois, Poland Spring Natural Resource manager.

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“The Fryeburg Police Department is grateful to Poland Spring for this grant, which allowed us to purchase two body cameras for our officers to wear while on patrol,” said Fryeburg Police Chief Josh Potvin. “Having this 21st century technology helps the

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FRYEBURG — Poland Spring Bottling Co. recently provided $14,000 to Fryeburg public safety departments.

The Good Neighbor Grants were used to purchase equipment and to support public safety programs for the police, fire and rescue departments.

Greater Bridgton / Fryeburg Areas

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Continuations

Page 8A, The Bridgton News, December 3, 2015

Crooked River project (Continued from Page 1A) 20,000 square feet of new construction (cost $4,155,000).

“To build a new school over 50,000 square feet, you would be looking at a cost of $15 to $20 million,” Blatt projected. “The improvements being proposed would make this school as good as any in the state.”

Superintendent Smith pointed out that during community forums he was told by the public to “Do it once, and do it right,” when considering a plan for Crooked River. The project if approved at referendum vote next Tuesday, Dec. 8, Smith said, would meet SAD 61’s educational needs for the next 40 to 50 years.

Blatt described the 30-year-old school as having “good bones” to work with and a site that has minor issues to address, such as creating a second loop for “bus only” drop-offs.

Normally, site work would account for 20% of a project’s cost, Blatt said, but in this case, the amount is 5% (or $550,000).

He pointed out that since new construction would “wrap around” the existing building, the facility would become more energyefficient.

While some opponents have described the proposed plan as a “showcase” school, Blatt said it is “not fancy” when compared to other facilities across the state.

School Board Chairman Janice Barter attempted to dispel the “showcase school” belief by listing what features the renovated school would include, such as space designated for special services and heating system improvements.

“There is not one frivolous thing in this project,” Barter said.

School officials defended the decision to include an auditorium because the district holds professional development sessions for staff there, and feels a unique opportunity exists to add such a feature that could ultimately be used by community groups, as well.

• Residents took a wide array of positions on the project, including: Phil Lowe, who is chairman of the Sebago Budget Committee, asked school officials to reveal “real numbers,” such as the project costs $9.6 million, but with interest over 20 years, the final tally will be closer to $13 million, he said. Lowe also wondered by other hidden costs that could arise, such as more staffing.

John Nostin, chairman of the Naples Budget Committee, congratulated school officials on a “job well done” in putting together a solid proposal. He reminded taxpayers that “we can pay now or pay more later” if the project is put off or if the public decides to take a “band-aid” approach Paid Political Advertisement

regarding CRES. He added there is “a cost” to borrow money, “it doesn’t come free,” and felt taxpayers can give up a few cups of coffee and donuts over a year’s time, if need be, to absorb tax increases to fund the project.

Susan Poulin of Casco offered a “taxpayer’s point of view.” She feels family and neighbors are close to a breaking point in their ability to meet rising tax hikes. She is hopeful the district will attempt to scale back the project.

“If not, I’ll vote ‘No,’” she said. “It’s too expensive.”

Ann McMahon of Sebago worries that the cost of the CRES project could hamstring other SAD 61 needs, as well as put other programs at risk as school officials pare down future budgets to keep tax increases minimal.

She would hate to see SAD 61 resort to “payto-play” fees like other school systems have invoked to raise revenues for programming.

Charles Frechette of Sebago pointed out that SAD 61 is a “blue-collar” community, which is struggling to make ends meet.

Robert Howe Jr. of Bridgton added that the district has a large number of retired people trying to live off Social Security, which will not increase next year. He pointed out that some economists have forecasted a recession to hit down the road, so SAD 61 should be wary of its debt situation.

Laura Ordway, a former school board member from Bridgton, reminded Sebago residents that despite “crushing” losses of state aid over the past decade ($6 million lost) and a state-mandated consolidation attempt — which ultimately led to SAD 61 repurposing Crooked River and moving kids to Songo Locks as a cost-saving

NO FRILLS — SAD 61 School Board chairman Janice Barter of Naples runs down a list of features proposed for the renovated/new construction at Crooked River School during Tuesday’s public hearing. Barter pointed out that the project addresses educational needs, while Superintendent Al Smith (left) and architect Steve Blatt noted that the facility would not be a “showcase” school as some proponents have decribed it.

(Rivet Photo) measure — the district did not close Sebago Elementary.

At 9:06 p.m., Phil Shane made the final comments of the night. First, he understands the financial struggles people are contending with. At 72 years old, Shane “still works

every day to survive.” Yet, he also strongly believes in meeting the educational needs of the area’s children and believes the Crooked River project is the “right thing to do.”

“This project is a good investment for our kids,” he said. “I hope people vote for it.”

Most frequently asked questions about project

Posted on the SAD 61 website, this is a series of the most Frequently Asked Questions surrounding the proposed construction project to reopen the Crooked River School in Casco.

• Why do we need to reopen a school that we closed seven years ago? Songo Locks Elementary School currently has 8­ 10 portable classrooms. The traffic that accompanies 450-plus students and the staff required has created a daily safety issue. Reopening Crooked River School will cut the student and staff population in half freeing up valuable classroom space and reducing the parking lot congestion.

• What grades will be served at Crooked River? Grades 3,

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4 and 5 would be moved from Songo Locks School to the newlyrenovated Crooked River School.

• What staffing will need to be added? The personnel from the Songo Locks School will be transferred to the Crooked River School requiring few new hires. To date, SAD 61 knows that officials will be hiring one Special Education teacher for the Day Treatment Program, one custodian, and one additional cafeteria cook.

• Why are we building to house 350 when we only have 250 to move into the building?

In the first year of operation, it is projected that there will be 250-plus students attending the Crooked River School. A study completed two years ago projected

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that by this year we would have less than 1,700 students attending our schools. The actual student count is more than 1,810 this year.

Building for 350 allows SAD 61 to accommodate this growth.

• How much is the project going to cost? The proposed construction project will cost $9.6 million. A similar size renovation/ building project was completed at Stevens Brook Elementary School 17 years ago at a cost of $7.3 million.

• How much will my taxes go up if this passes? The annual cost over 20 years is estimated at $650,000 per year including interest costs. Approximate annual cost to each taxpayer per $100,000 home value:

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Bridgton = $32.00 Casco = $24.00 Naples = $23.00 Sebago = $12.00 • Will Sebago Elementary close as a result on this? The intent of this project was to eliminate overcrowding at the Songo Locks School, not to close Sebago Elementary School. We currently educate over 450 students at Songo Locks, which was built to house approximately 380 students.

• Where can I get more information? Additional information can be found on LRTV, on the district website www.lakeregionschools.org , by calling the superintendent’s office (647-3048 or 693-5194), or by speaking directly with any school board member.

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An open letter to the voters of MSAD 61: The MSAD 61 Board of Directors has authorized a vote in each town, Naples, Sebago, Casco and Bridgton, on December 8th. This vote will decide whether the taxpayers will fund or not fund a renovation /addition to the Crooked River Elementary School in Casco

The cost of the project is to be borne entirely by local taxpayers: $9.6 Million.

We agree the need is great for more space for Naples and Casco elementary students, but we disagree with the scope, cost and consequences of this project. The impact of this project on taxpayers has been completely ignored by the Board. Emphasis in selling this project has been as a “Showplace.”

Scope and cost: Casco and Naples 3rd through 5th graders will have a “new” school that has 26% empty space. The proposed project is overbuilt. It even includes a huge auditorium (we have a district auditorium already). Badly needed space for the students can be available much sooner, and at significantly less cost to the taxpayers.

Consequences: The Board made a mistake when it closed Crooked River Elementary, a mistake for which we are now being asked to pay $9.6 Million. We can correct that mistake by reopening the school at a modest price. We are very concerned that other district schools and all educational and extracurricular programs will be negatively affected by huge spending on this project. The remaining projects to be addressed by the District are: High School Track replacement $250,000, Songo Locks Parking/Traffic $600,000 to $800,000, Middle School Parking/ Entrance, High School White House/West Wing project, and other high cost projects, all these are also needed for function and safety. It is obvious that the single CRES addition is a monster project that will devastate the rest of the school budget, and affect both education and safety.

We want the Board to know they should come back with a more modest, less costly project, one that can be completed sooner, because the need is great. This mega-project is the wrong approach to solving the overcrowding, it just costs too much and takes too long to complete.

Anne and Joe McMahon Carol Frost Dessi Berry Dawn Touchette Patrick Berry June Berry Donald Berry Lisa Johnson Mandee Dearborn Jeremy Turon Nicole Smith Charlie and Karen Freshette

Charles F. Freshette Steve Girardin Mary MacKinnon Evelyn and John Abrams Richard Merritt Jessie Ellebracht Teresa Sadak Amanda Hawkes James Splude Allen Crabtree Cheryl Wright Denise Olsen

Carrie Smith Dave Sheldrick Josephine Harmon Benjamin McKenney Jessica MacVicar Claudia and Phil Lowe Thomas H. Cutting Douglas and Sue Newton Jim and Margie Jansz Brenda Merritt Beth McCarthy 1T49X

Community News

December 3, 2015, The Bridgton News, Page 1B

Area Events Fryeburg Historical Christmas Tea

FRYEBURG — The Fryeburg Historical Society will be hosting its second annual Christmas Tea on Friday, Dec. 4, from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Col. Samuel Osgood House, 83 Portland Street, Fryeburg. Come and enjoy the spirit of the holiday season with family and friends in an authentic 1832 home. There will be tea sandwiches, scones, individual desserts and other finger delights, all made by society members, and tea will be served from a vintage silver tea set, with Joan Newton pouring. The society’s collection of vintage hats will be available for those who wish to wear one during the tea.

There will be a $10 donation at the door, and all proceeds will benefit the society. Call Diane Jones at 256-7468 or e-mail ewjones@roadrunner.com

Restorative Candlelight Service in Raymond

THE ORIGINAL ORIGINALS — Actors and singers from the early years of The Originals, the resident company at Saco River Theatre, will come together as a chorus for a 25th Anniversary Holiday Concert at 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Dec. 4 and 5, at the theater at 29 Salmon Falls Road, Bar Mills. Reservations are strongly recommended; call 929-5412 or visit www.sacorivertheatre.org

Spending Christmas Eve in a dog kennel for a good cause FRYEBURG — Last year Deb Cloutier spent Christmas Eve sleeping in a dog kennel at Harvest Hills Animal Shelter, and raised $10,758. This year, Cloutier will have a partner: her niece, Allie Black, who asked if she could join her aunt on a night when most children her age are at home enjoying Christmas Eve festivities with their families (not to mention, waking up Christmas morning with them).

Cloutier, who has been volunteering at the shelter for 14 years, is asking anyone who has adopted, surrendered or found their lost dog at Harvest Hills over those 14 years to consider making a donation to her fundraiser. She is hoping that those who fit into these categories will do so in honor of their dog(s) and the shelter as a whole, but also in realization that Cloutier probably fed,

walked, played with, and yes, comforted their dogs while at Harvest Hills.

To donate, just go to https://www.gofundme.com/ mg98pa2c, where making a credit or debit card donation is easy. Don’t want to donate online? Checks made out to HHAS and dropped off, or mailed to 1389 Bridgton Road, Fryeburg, ME 04037 are appreciated. If writing a check, please write “Sleepover” in the memo so that a fundraiser total can be determined.

Cloutier has a $10,000 fundraising goal, but figures if those positively affected by HHAS in the last 14 years donate, it is a goal that can be met. A portion of the proceeds will construct a “living room” in the basement of the shelter.

This room will allow volunteers to take cats and dogs to a tranquil and stress-free

place. Furnishings, along with other comforts, will encourage volunteers to stay a while, meaning the animals get more time out of their kennels and condos.

It is also Cloutier’s hope that this room will encourage

seniors who are not able to walk a dog or clean cat condos to volunteer, simply by spending quality time with the animals. And when you consider how soothing petting a dog or cat can be, this is a win-win situation for everyone involved.

Live nativity in Bradley Park FRYEBURG — Witness a “live” Nativity in Bradley Park in Fryeburg Saturday, Dec. 12 and Sunday, Dec. 13 from 5 to 7 p.m.

The Evangelical Leaders of Christ is presenting a Live Nativity (people and animals characters). The activity is free to the community.

Churches involved are: Fryeburg Assembly of God, Stow Baptist Church, and Son Rise Family Church.

Hear the meaning of Christmas read in Scripture, sing seasonal songs of joy, receive tokens of the Christmas message and enjoy hot beverages and snacks.

Christmas in Harrison

RAYMOND — The Raymond Village Community Church, 27 Main Street, Raymond Village, will offer a contemplative, restorative longest-night candlelight service on Tuesday, Dec. 8, from 7 to 8 p.m. The service is for anyone who is feeling the stress of the Christmas season, and seek to leave the darkness behind. The Senior Choir will be singing and the service will be a time to find healing, wholeness, and maybe even yourself, this holiday season. There will be readings, prayers, candles, carols, and ample time for quiet reflection. No offering will be taken.

Sons of the American Revolution meeting

GORHAM — The Southern Maine Chapter Maine SAR will meet on Tuesday, Dec, 8, starting at 9:30 a.m. in the Baxter Memorial Library, 71 South Street, Gorham. If you have ancestors who in any way helped the rebels secure our freedoms and separation from Britain during the American Revolution, you are invited to come and hear about the organization’s mission to remember and honor the country’s founding patriots. For more information, e-mail Southern Maine Chapter President Robert Packard at rpack@maine. rr.com

Make sea glass and silver earrings

NAPLES — The Naples Public Library will offer a Sea Glass Earring making workshop on Thursday, Dec. 10, from 6 to 8 p.m. Lynn Priest of Sedona Wellness & Creativity Center in Raymond will help participants create two pairs of earrings from sea glass and silver, to give as gifts or keep for yourself. Priest, who also paints, does embossed brass projects, metal stamping, leather charm bracelets and even Zentangle, will provide the materials. A $20 materials fee will be charged the night of the class. Please register at the library, or call 693-6841.

Free film Friday offers Pixar flick

CASCO — Bring the family for a fun, free night out to watch a Pixar adventure flick, Inside Out, on Friday, Dec. 11, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Casco Public Library in Casco Village. Emotions run high in this PG-rated animated adventure film about a little girl from the Midwest trying to adjust to city life after moving to San Francisco.

Creating beautiful holiday centerpieces

NAPLES — The Naples Public Library will host Carol Drew from Watkins Farm for a workshop on how to create beautiful evergreen and berry centerpieces for your Christmas table. Drew is busy this time of year with offering Christmas trees and wreaths at Watkins Farm, located at 791 Roosevelt Trail in Naples. The garden center has been serving people in the Lakes Region since 2004 with all their landscaping and floral needs, from shrubs to flower arrangements. Drew will bring everything you need for the workshop, to be held at the library on Thursday, Dec. 17 at 6:30 p.m. There is a materials fee of $15 to be paid that night. Registration is requested to hold your spot, by calling the library at 693-6841.

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December 3rd – 5th, 2015

Local Artists, Artisans, Photography, Pottery, Gourmet Foods Wed–Sat 10–5 | Sun 10–3

Feel the warmth and share the glow of the season in one of New England’s most picturesque towns… where Christmas is still celebrated the old-fashioned way.

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Holiday Highlights Thursday, Dec. 3rd

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Route 5 Center Lovell

At United Parish Congregational Church 5:30-6:30 p.m. – Soup And A Song

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(Donations of nonperishable food items appreciated)

207-925-6502

6:30-7:30 p.m. – Music program & Live Nativity

www.harvestgoldgallery.com

Friday, Dec. 4th At Harrison Town Office 6:45 p.m. Santa’s Arrival • Tree Lighting

For unique and beautiful fine American handcrafts…

Start your holiday shopping with us

Saturday, Dec. 5th 7:30-9:30 a.m. Breakfast Buffet at Olde Mill Tavern

Hosted by United Parish Congregational Church.

Donations welcome – benefitting Deacon’s Fund

9:30 a.m. – Christmas Parade Followed by Free Horse-Drawn Wagon Rides throughout the Village Holiday Craft Fairs Children’s Treasure Hunt Swag Making and Open Houses

Gallery Hours: Open Daily 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Sun. 10 a.m-5 p.m.

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1544 Roosevelt Trail (Rte. 302) Raymond, ME 04071• 207-655-4952 email: jlmastro@maine.rr.com www.holeinthewallstudioworks.com

Page 2B, The Bridgton News, December 3, 2015

Holiday Fairs

Saturday, December 5 Bring your kids to have Breakfast with Santa at Sebago Town Hall from 8 to 11 a.m., and then let them go on their own to Santa’s Workshop (a.k.a. The Maple Grove Grange) to buy their Christmas gifts at the Grange’s For Kids Only Shopping event. All the gifts range in price from 25 cents to $1: jewelry, handmade items, mugs, toys and more. The adults will have their own sales table as well.

A Christmas Bake Sale will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Naples Grange, across from the Naples Town Hall and Post Office on Roosevelt Trail. Santa will be on hand for visits from noon to 2 p.m. All proceeds from the event will go to the Patrick Dempsey Center for Hope & Healing.

As part of the annual Christmas in Harrison celebration in the Village, there will be Holiday Craft Fairs going on concurrently at the Harrison Grange and Harrison Town Hall. There will also be swag-making, a children’s Treasure Hunt and horsedrawn wagon rides.

A Children’s Christmas Shopping Day will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Naples United Methodist Church, Route 302, Naples. Children ages 3 to 15 can choose from gift items costing anywhere from five cents to a dollar. Bring a list of people you need to shop for; there’ll be free sandwiches while you’re waiting. There’ll also be a homemade bake sale and sale of hats and mittens.

The annual Denmark Congregational Church Fair will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Denmark Municipal Building.

(Snow date Dec. 6, noon to 3 p.m.) There’ll be a soup and sandwich lunch with chips, beverage and brownie Sundae dessert;

Country living the cookie walk; Christmas silent auction table, sale of memory tree ornaments; library book sale and raffle; and crafters selling wreaths and Christmas balls, wood products, doll clothing; works of a local artist and holiday gifts and decorations.

The Annual Christmas Fair for the Scholarship Fund at the East Otisfield Free Baptist Church will be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The fair will include a cookie walk, Christmas table, craft items, attic treasures, RADA Cutlery and a bake sale. The church is located at 231 Rayville Road, one mile off Route 121 in Otisfield.

The annual Shaker Christmas Fair at Sabbathday Lake Shaker Village runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Experience this nostalgic holiday tradition at America’s only active Shaker Community. Lunch plates will be served.

Saturday, December 12 The Denmark Arts Center at 50 West Main Street, Denmark, is holding a Jolly Holiday Handmade Bazaar from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Find a bevy of local handmade gifts and goods — and Mrs. Claus has agreed to spend the day! They’ll be serving lunch with coffee, with free crafting for the kids all day. Downeast Magazine’s gift pick Linden Longboards will be there too.

A Holiday Fair will be held from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Naples Public Library in Naples Village. Areas will be set up for the annual cookie walk, holiday baked goodies, miniart, make-a-craft and handmade gifts. Live holiday music will be provided by volunteer Bea Asken and her daughter Andrea, played on viols and recorders.

Entertainment & Concerts

group will sing jazz choral arrangements of classic holiday numbers, arranged and conducted by Originals cofounder Jennifer Porter. Reservations are strongly recommended; call 929-5412 or visit www.sacorivertheatre.org Friday & Sunday, December 4 & 6 The Lake Region Community Chorus is presenting its third winter concert, aptly titled “It’s the Holiday Season,” at the Twitchell Chapel, Bridgton Academy, North Bridgton.

Friday & Saturday, The chorus of over 50 members from 14 Lake Region towns December 4 & 5 will sing and perform many holiday selections to bring a Actors and singers from the early years of The Originals, smile of joy and wonderment to your face. Performances are the resident company at Saco River Theatre, presents a 25th Friday, Dec. 4, at 7 p.m. and Sunday matinee, Dec. 6, at 3 p.m.

Anniversary Holiday Concert at 7:30 p.m. both nights at the Suggested donation is $5-10. theater, located at 29 Salmon Falls Road in Bar Mills. The Friday-Sunday, December 4-6 The perennial holiday favorite, The Nutcracker, is offered at 2 and 7 p.m. at Merrill Auditorium in Portland. For tickets, contact PortTix at ticket.porttix.com or call 842-0800.

The Schoolhouse Arts NOW OPEN: Center on Richville Road in Daily 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Standish presents A Wonderful y 207-693-6753 Life — The Musical with us holida o i c 978 Roosevelt Trail i l e d showtimes of 7:30 p.m. Fridays A Naples, ME 04055 rance g and Saturdays and Sundays at a r f www.countrysleigh.com 1T49 2 p.m. Come experience this uplifting chronicle of the extraordinary lives of ordinary folk. Tickets are $18, $16 for students/seniors. The show repeats the weekends of Dec. 1113 and Dec. 18-20. FMI: 6423743.

Vintage • Artisans • Cottage • Antiques • Collectables Saturday, December 5 The Denmark Arts Center’s Old Man Movies series offers up Wild Strawberries, Ingmar with Bergman’s quintessential exisVendor & Shelf tential road movie, starring a Space Available radiant Victor Sjostrom, at 7 p.m. Sjostrom plays Isak Borg, a doctor who reflects on his Open 7 days • 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. life in a series of luminous and A collaboration with 142 Main St., Bridgton • 647-4500 heartbreaking flashbacks even Harvest Hills Animal Shelter as he wrestles with his present as a lonely old man. Suggested donation is $5.

The VFW Fryeburg/Lovell Post #6783 hosts a 6:30 p.m. concert with Fan Fare, a returning favorite in Lovell due to a connection with former leader and Lovell resident Don Dutel. If you want music to get you into the Christmas spirit, this is the place to be.

Saturday-Sunday, December 5-6 Tina Titzer’s Act One Dance Company presents the 7th annual Holiday Festival of Dance/The Nutcracker Sweets at 7 p.m. Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday at the Leura Hill Eastman Performing Arts Center at Fryeburg Academy.

This family-friendly program will include ballet, tap and jazz pieces to your favor-

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Suppers & Breakfasts Saturday, December 5 A Buffet Breakfast put on by the United Parish Church of Harrison-North Bridgton will be served from 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. at the Olde Mill Tavern as part of Harrison Old Home Days. The menu will include scrambled eggs, pancakes, hash brown potatoes, sausage, fresh fruit, muffins, coffee cake, juice, coffee, and tea. Donations are welcome.

Proceeds go to the church’s Deacons Fund, which provides Hannaford gift cards for needy people in Harrison and to help with fuel and electric bills. If anyone would like to help the Deacons Fund and is unable to come to the breakfast, please send a check to the United Parish, P.O. Box 95, Harrison, ME 04040, with memo marked Deacons Fund.

The Waterford World’s Fair is hosting a Public Supper at the North Waterford Congregational Church, Green Road, Waterford. The menu includes baked haddock, macaroni & cheese and all the fixings, including delicious homemade pies for dessert. All for $10 per person. FMI: 8907669.

A Pancake Breakfast will be served at the West Baldwin United Methodist Church on Route 113 in West Baldwin, from 7 to 9 a.m. The menu is pancakes, sausage, scrambled eggs, coffee and orange juice. Cost is $6, 10 and under $3. ite Christmas tunes along with a shortened version of The Nutcracker. Tickets are $12 for adults, $8 for children. FMI: 9354020.

Sunday, December 6 The Casco Village Church United Church of Christ, 941 Meadow Road (Route 121) in Casco invites everyone to their annual Christmas Concert at 4 p.m. Enjoy contemporary and classic favorites as well as a hymn-sing with the Casco Village Church Choir, Choir Director Eugene Long, Accompanist Lynn Foss, and special guest instrumentalists. A good will offering will be taken, and refreshments will be served.

The Heather Pierson Quartet will bring their popular Charlie Brown Christmas Show to the Norway Universalist Church, 479 Main Street, at 3 p.m. Joining Heather for this very special Christmas concert will be Joe Aliperti on alto and tenor saxes, Shawn Nadeau on bass, and Craig Bryan on drums. The group will perform the entirety of the Charlie Brown Christmas album, as recorded by the Vince Guaraldi Trio, as well as other well known and popular Christmas tunes. Tickets are $15 in advance, $20 at the door, under 12 free.

Celebrate the coming of Christmas at a 4 p.m. concert featuring pianist Dana Cunningham and cellist Max Dyer at the Little White Church in Eaton Village, N.H. Join actors and musicians from Deertrees Theatre for a family-friendly performance of A Deertrees Christmas, starting at 3 p.m. at the United Parish Congregational Church of Harrison and North Bridgton in Harrison Village. Bring nonperishable food items for the food pantry.

Tuesday, December 8 The Promise Singers will once again present their festive annual Christmas Concert at 7 p.m. at the Denmark Congregational Church on Route 117. The program includes both traditional and contemporary Christmas music, along with winter selections. The Promise Singers have been performing together for more than 30 years. Snow date is Dec. 9.

Thursday, December 10 The Lake Region High School Auditorium on Route 302 in Naples will resound with the sounds of the season as the school’s band and chorus present the Annual LRHS Holiday Concert at 7 p.m. The concert also features the renowned SkazzCats and the LRHS Jazz Choir. The concert is free and promises to be a great evening for all.

In what is being billed as “A Noble House Christmas Tradition,” Heather Pierson and Shawn Nadeau will present the musical soundtrack of A Charlie Brown Christmas in an intimate concert at the Noble House Inn, 81 Highland Road, Bridgton, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. RSVP: 647-3733 or e-mail innkeeper@noblehousebb.com Friday, December 11 Come get a sneak peek of the latest work of local dance makers Delaney McDonough and Cookie Harrist of Hio Ridge Dance, in a 7:30 p.m. performance at the Denmark Arts Center, 50 West Main Street, Denmark. They welcome your feedback!

Come hear the music of local artists the Jed Wilson Trio at 7:30 p.m. as part of the Bradley Backstage Concert Series at the Leura Hill Eastman Performing Arts Center at Fryeburg Academy. Jed will play piano, while Jacob Forbes will be on drums and Kinnon Church will be on bass. Tickets are $15; $5 for students. FMI: 935-9232.

Sunday, December 13 The Lovell United Church of Christ on Route 5 in Center Lovell will hold two Fryeburg Academy Candlelight Concerts at 4 and 7 p.m.

Tuesday, December 15 The Promise Singers will once again present their festive annual Christmas Concert at 7 p.m. at the First Congregational Church on South High Street in Bridgton. The program includes both traditional and contemporary Christmas music, along with winter selections. The Promise Singers have been performing together for more than 30 years. Snow date is Dec. 16.

Planning to move museum

1T49

It’s a new day for the Rufus Porter Museum, which is planning to move its c.1788 Nathan Church House Museum from 67 North High Street to downtown Bridgton, to a spot adjacent to the Webb House facing Church Street. The two buildings will make up two thirds of the museum’s downtown site.

With the idea that every $10 donation moves the Nathan Church House a foot closer to its new home, the museum has only 3,500 feet to go. It’s been a long time planning, and now the museum’s board of trustees is almost there.

Join in and help move the house! Every $10 donation brings it a foot closer, and furthers the museum’s strategic plan to better serve the community by being downtown. The staff and board of trustees of the Rufus Porter Museum would like to thank the Bridgton community for its generous support. Donations may be mailed to P.O. Box 544, Bridgton ME 04009.

MUSEUM ON WHEELS — With a model on wheels to inspire them, members of the Rufus Porter Facilities Committee are planning for the long-anticipated move of the museum from North High Street to the corner of Main and Church Streets in downtown Bridgton. From left are John Michalowski, Don Eilertson, Dave Johnson, Martha Cummings, Jeff Frey and Judy Graham.

Country living Calendar PLEASE NOTE: All calendar listings/press releases must be sent in at least one week before the event. E-mail bnews@roadrunner.com or mail to P.O. Box 244, Bridgton, ME 04009 (Note: for supper/breakfast listings, concerts & entertainment and holiday fairs, see separate listings).

BRIDGTON Thur.-Sun., Dec. 3-6 — Christmas Tree Sale by Bridgton Fire Dept., Thur. 4-8 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Food City.

Fri., Dec. 4 — Tree Lighting, music, Santa, sale of Christmas trees and crafts, 6 to 8 p.m., Chamber Office, Portland Rd. Sat., Dec. 5 — Open House at Rufus Porter Museum’s Webb House on Main Street, afternoon and during Christmas parade.

Sat., Dec. 5 — Book signing, I Feel More Like I Do Now than I Did Yesterday by Brad Terry, 1 to 3 p.m., library.

Sat., Dec. 5 — Festival of Lights Parade w/theme “Favorite Christmas Movie,” 4:30 p.m. party at library courtyard; 5:10 tree lighting across Main St.; 5:30 p.m. parade along Main St; 6 p.m. music & crafts at Community Center. 6:30 p.m. visit with Santa & Mrs. Claus, Community Center.

Wed., Dec. 9 — Celebrate Cutting Snowflakes Day, come cut snowflakes at library all day.

Wed., Dec. 9 — Bridgton Caregivers Support Group, 1 p.m., Community Center.

Wed., Dec. 9 — Prostate Cancer Support Group, 6:30 p.m., Community Center.

Thur., Fri., Dec. 10, 11 — Open Houses, LEA Maine Lake Science Center, 51 Willett Rd., 4-6 p.m. Fri. & noon to 4 p.m.

Sat. FMI: 647-3318.

Thur.-Sun., Dec. 10-13 — Christmas Tree Sale by Bridgton Fire Dept., Thur. 4-8 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Food City.

Fri., Dec. 11 — Joy of Singing, 3 p.m., Community Center.

Sat., Dec. 12 — Book signing, I Feel More Like I Do Now than I Did Yesterday by Brad Terry, 1 to 3 p.m., Drip, next to the Barber of Bridgton.

Sun., Dec. 13 — Holiday Tea Party for adults, 3 p.m., library.

Tue., Dec. 15 — DIY Duck Tape Gifts, 4 p.m., library.

Tue., Dec. 15 — Public meeting by Maine DOT on Moose Pond Causeway guardrail plans, 5 to 6:30 p.m., Municipal Complex.

BROWNFIELD Sat., Dec. 12 — Family Fun Night with Mystery Fun Night for adults, 5:30 p.m., Community Center.

Tue., Dec. 15 — Adult

Sat., Dec. 5 — Open House, Play Group, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., 9 a.m. to noon, Lewis Dana Hill Community Center.

Library.

CASCO Sun., Dec. 6 — Potluck Thur., Dec. 3 — Color & Supper, 5:30 p.m., followed Calm Time for Grown-ups, 1 to 2 p.m. and 6 to 7 p.m., li- by Bell Choir Concert, Lovell brary. Signups appreciated, call Congregational Church.

Sat., Dec. 12 — Santa’s 627-4541.

Workshop for kids, 9 a.m. to Thur., Dec. 3 — Information about online course to become noon, New Suncook School.

Sat., Dec. 12 — Christmas a mental health professional, 6 p.m., Crooked River Adult Ed., High Tea, 2 to 4 p.m., Lovell United Church of Christ, Rte. 5.

Rte. 11. FMI: 627-4291.

Sun., Dec. 13 — Open Tue., Dec. 8 — Lego Club, House

by Lovell Historical 3:30 to 4:30 p.m., library.

Fri., Dec. 11 — Family Film Society, 1 to 4 p.m., KimballFriday, Inside Out (PG), 6:30 Stanford House.

Sun., Dec. 13 — Last p.m., library. chance to bid on items in Online DENMARK Auction of Lovell United Fri., Dec. 4 — Difficult Church of Christ, 9 p.m. Visit hike to Mount Pierce, Crawford www.luccauction.org Notch, N.H. by Denmark NAPLES Mountain Hikers, meet 8 a.m.

Sat., Dec. 5 — Children’s at Denmark Congregational Christmas Shopping Day, Church. FMI: 756-2247.

Fri., Dec. 11 — Moderate 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Methodist hike to Peaked Mountain, No. Church, 1000 Roosevelt Trl. Mon., Dec. 7 — The Food Conway, N.H. by Denmark Basket and Kyrie’s Kitchen, 1 Mountain Hikers, meet 8 a.m. at Denmark Congregational to 3 p.m., Town Hall gym. FMI: 615-3226.

Church. FMI: 756-2247.

Tue., Dec. 8 — Santa’s Visit, Fri., Dec. 11 — Exhibit of 10:30 a.m., followed by Bringwood rubbings and prints by Jeff Woodbury, 5 to 7 p.m., a-Dish Potluck Lunch, 11:30 Denmark Arts Center, 50 West a.m., library.

Tue., Dec. 8 — Scrabble, 7 Main St. p.m., library.

FRYEBURG Thur., Dec. 10 — Lego Fri., Dec. 4 — Fryeburg Club, 4 p.m., library.

Historical Society Christmas Thur., Dec. 10 — Seaglass Tea, 1 to 3 p.m., Col. Samuel Earring Workshop, 6 to 8 p.m., Osgood House, Portland St. library.

Mon., Dec. 7 — First Aid Tue., Dec. 15 — Children’s class by Crooked River Adult Movie, 4 p.m., library.

Ed., 5-7 p.m., Molly Ockett RAYMOND Middle School. RSVP: 627Thur., Dec. 3 — Raymond 4291, ext. 21.

Sat., Dec. 12 — Maine Food Pantry, 4-6 p.m., Lake Driving Dynamics, 8 a.m. to Region Baptist Church, 1273 1:30 p.m., Molly Ockett Middle Main St. FMI: 232-5830.

Sun., Dec. 6 — Weaving School. Preregister: 627-4291, a Christmas Bell, 1-4 p.m., liext. 21.

Sat., Dec. 12 — Live brary.

Tue., Dec. 8 — Restorative, Nativity by Evangelical Leaders of Christ, 5-7 p.m., Bradley contemplative candlelight service, 7 to 8 p.m., Raymond Park.

Village Church, 27 Main St. HARRISON Wed., Dec. 9 — Winter Thur.-Sat., Dec. 3-5 — Health with Bees and Herbs, Christmas in Harrison, variety 6:30 p.m., library. of events, Harrison Village.

Sun., Dec. 13 — Annual Thur., Dec. 3 — Soup Bake Sale, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., liand a Song, 5:30 p.m., musi- brary. cal program 6:30 p.m., live naMon., Dec. 14 — Library tivity to follow, United Parish Board meeting, 6 p.m., library.

Congregational Church.

Wed., Dec. 16 — Make and Fri., Dec. 4 — Santa’s ar- Take Craft, after school, library. rival & tree lighting, 6:45 p.m., SEBAGO Town Office.

Mon., Dec. 14 — Sebago Sat., Dec. 5 — Buffet Breakfast, 7:30 to 9:30 a.m., Food Pantry, 3-7 p.m., Rte. 114.

SWEDEN Olde Mill Tavern.

Wed., Dec. 16 — Sweden Sat., Dec. 5 — Christmas in Harrison Parade, 9:30 a.m., Food Pantry, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Sweden Church, 137 Bridgton Village. Holiday Wed., Dec. 9 — Online help Rd. FMI: 647-4429, 647-5399. for those with limited computer WATERFORD skills, 4 to 6 p.m., library. FMI: Mon., Dec. 7 — Socrates 583-2970.

Café, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., library.

LOVELL Fri., Dec. 4 — Christmas Caroling by Lovell Congregational Church, meet 5:30 p.m. at church to board bus.

Fri., Dec. 4 — Annual Tree Lighting, Christmas carols and arrival of Santa, 7 p.m., library.

Wed., Dec. 9 — Mystery Book Club, discussing 1st book in the series by Julia Spencer Fleming, 4 p.m., library.

AREA EVENTS Thur., Dec. 3 — SCORE Business Roundtable, 8 a.m., Norway Town Office, 19

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Thur., Dec. 3 — Southern Maine Astronomers Open House, 7 p.m., Southworth Planetarium, USM, Portland.

FMI: 780-4249.

Sat., Dec. 5 — Take A Chance Auction to benefit 4-H, doors open 4 p.m., auction begins 6 p.m., Oxford Hills Middle School, Pine St., So. Paris. FMI: 966-2913.

Sat., Dec. 5 — Kids’ Night Out, 5:30 to 9 p.m., Saint Joseph’s College, White’s Bridge Rd., Standish. FMI: 893-7661.

Sat., Dec. 5 — Carolyn Currie Concert, 7 p.m., Southworth Planetarium, USM, Portland. FMI: 7804249.

Sun., Dec. 6 — Annual Benefit Auction for Arts Council of Tamworth, N.H., silent auction 8 a.m., live auction 10 a.m., Sunny Villa Restaurant, Ossipee, N.H. Sun., Dec. 6 — Red Cross Babysitter Training Class, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saint Joseph’s College, White’s Bridge Rd., Standish. FMI: 893-6615 Sun., Dec. 6 — Oxford County Dems, noon, Crescent Park School, Bethel. FMI: 8752116.

Sun., Dec. 6 — Worship in the Taize Tradition, 4 p.m., Christ Episcopal Church, Norway.

Tue., Dec. 8 — Sons of the American Revolution meeting, 9:30 a.m., Baxter Memorial Library, 71 South St., Gorham.

FMI: rpack@maine.rr.com Wed., Dec. 9 — SCORE Workshop on Self-Employment, 6 to 8 p.m., Norway Town Office, 19 Danforth St., Norway.

Sat., Dec. 12 — Pickwick Club discusses ch. 35-67 of Vanity Fair by Thackeray, 12:30 to 2:30 p.m., Auburn Library.

FMI: 583-6957.

Mon., Dec. 14 — Astronomy Cafe, 7 p.m., USM Southworth Planetarium, Franklin St., Portland.

Wed., Dec. 16 — 20th Year Celebration, 2 p.m., Maine Veterans Home, 477 High St., So. Paris. FMI: 743-6300.

ONGOING WEEKLY

DAILY Alcoholics Anonymous, 9 a.m., Clyde Bailey Center, Rte. 302, Casco.

Alcoholics Anonymous, noon to 1 p.m., St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, Sweden Rd., Bridgton. O/D

MONDAYS Jumpin’ Janes, 9 a.m., Bridgton Town Hall, No. High St. (Also 9 a.m. Weds. & Fri.) Medicare Open Enrollment, by appt., 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Bridgton Community Center. FMI: 647-3116.

Sebago Food Pantry, 9-11 a.m., Nazarene Church, Rte. 114. FMI: 274-1569.

Free Zumba Gold Classes thru Dec. 31, 10:30 a.m., Fountain of You, Rte. 302, Naples. FMI: 939-2436.

Casco/Naples Senior Meal Site, noon, Casco Fire Station. FMI: 627-4044, 3189246.

Bridge, 1 p.m., Bradley St., Fryeburg. Runs yearround.

Cribbage, 2 p.m., Bridgton Community Center.

Coed Adult Basketball, 6 to 7:45 p.m., Harrison Elementary School. FMI: 583-2241.

Earn while you learn CNA program

LEWISTON — The Maine College of Health Professions in Lewiston is accepting applications for its Earn While You Learn Certified Nurse’s Assistant program, which runs from Feb. 2 to April 13.

The course is designed to provide the knowledge and clinical skills necessary for a student to become a C.N.A. To be listed on the C.N.A. Registry, students are required to successfully complete the Maine State Certification Examination.

The Earn While You Learn program allows applicants to apply with Central Maine Healthcare for a C.N.A. trainee position. Upon acceptance into the program, CMH will pay for all tuition, fees and books, and students will be compensated for up to 30 hours of work per week while taking the course. After successful completion of the state certification exam, the applicants agree to work as a C.N.A. at CMH for two years.

Applicants must meet the college’s admission requirements. The application deadline is Tuesday, Dec. 15.

For more information, visit www.mchp.edu/certified-nursing-assistant or contact Erica Watson at 7952843 or watsoner@cmhc.org

Lake Region Community Chorus, rehearsals, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., Twitchell Chapel, Bridgton Academy. FMI: 647-3733.

Narcotics Anonymous, 7 p.m. Bridgton Community Center, 15 Depot St. ODLH Narcotics Anonymous, 7 p.m., Clyde Bailey Center, Rte. 302, Casco.

TUESDAYS Jeanette’s Free Clothing Closet, 9 to 11:30 a.m., First Congregational Church, Bridgton.

Chickadee Quilters, 9:30 a.m., Bridgton Community Center.

Tai Chi, 10 a.m., Bridgton Town Hall, No. High St. Naples Food Pantry, 10 to 11:30 a.m., United Methodist Church, Village Green. FMI: 595-2754.

Bridgton Food Pantry, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Methodist Church, 98 Main St., Bridgton.

FMI: 647-4476.

Senior Lunch, noon to 1 p.m., Harrison Fire Station Community Room, Harrison.

Bridge, 12:15 p.m., Bridgton Community Center.

Medicare Open Enrollment, by appt., 1-4:30 p.m., Bridgton Community Center. FMI: 647-3116.

Harrison Food Pantry, 6 to 7:30 p.m., Adventist Church, 2 Naples Rd. FMI: 583-6178.

Adult Volleyball, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., Brownfield Community Center.

Al-Anon Bridgton, 7 p.m.

Newcomers Meeting, 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. Open Meeting, St. Joseph’s Catholic Church.

AA Step Mtgs., 7 p.m., Clyde Bailey Center, Rte. 302, Casco.

Community Center Gym. FMI: 627-4187.

Alcoholics Anonymous, 7 to 8 p.m., Clyde Bailey Center, Rte. 302, So. Casco.

THURSDAYS AA Ladies Step-Meeting, 7 a.m. & 7 p.m., Clyde Bailey Center, Rte. 302, So. Casco.

Casco/Naples Senior Meal Site, noon, Casco Fire Station.

FMI: 627-4044, 318-9246.

Gathering Place Support Group, noon, Bridgton Community Center.

Pinochle, 1 p.m., Bridgton Community Center.

Table Tennis, Bridgton Town Hall, cancelled until repairs completed.

Free Community Kettle Supper, 5 p.m., Bridgton Community Center.

Coed Adult Softball, 6 to 8:30 p.m., Crystal Lake Park, Harrison. FMI: 583-2241.

Chickadee Quilters, 6:30 p.m. Community Center.

Al-Anon, 6:30 to 7:45 p.m., Open Meeting, Naples Methodist Church, Village Green.

NA Women’s Meeting, 7 to 8 p.m., St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, Sweden Rd., Bridgton.

FRIDAYS Tai Chi, 10 a.m., Bridgton Town Hall, No. High St. Awana Youth Program, grades K-6; transportation provided; Cornerstone Gospel Church, Rte. 114, Naples. FMI: 583-7674.

Over 40 Men’s Basketball, 4 p.m., Brownfield/Denmark School.

Narcotics Anonymous, 7 p.m. Bridgton Community Center, 15 Depot St. ODLH SATURDAYS Sebago Clothes Closet, 9 a.m. to noon, Warming Hut, Rte. 114, Sebago, next to Nazarene Church.

AA Meeting, O/BB/D/A/L, 7 to 8 p.m., Lovell Church of Christ, 1174 Main St., Lovell.

Al-Anon, 7 to 8 p.m., Lovell Church of Christ, 1174 Main St., Lovell.

AA Beginner’s & Group Mtgs., 7 to 8 p.m., Clyde Bailey Center, 224 Roosevelt Trail, So. Casco.

WEDNESDAYS Gathering Place Support Group, noon, Bridgton Community Center.

Senior Lunch, noon, Bridgton Community Center.

Ping Pong, 1-3 p.m., Harrison Fire Station Community Room, Harrison.

Assistance with Online Needs, 4-6 p.m., Harrison Village Library.

Over 40 Pickleball, 5:30 to 7 p.m., Harrison Elementary SUNDAYS School. FMI: 583-2241.

Alcoholics Anonymous, Bible Study, 6 p.m., Bridgton 6:30 p.m., Harrison Community Center.

Congregational Church.

Pickleball, 7 p.m., Casco

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Page 4B, The Bridgton News, December 3, 2015

Country living

Eleven down, one more month to go

Eleven down and one more month to go in 2015. Of course, I feel like it should still be summer, but that’s me.

December brings the holidays of Christmas and the New Year. It’s a season of peace and harmony with the world, hopefully so. So get the shopping done and relax, and bring in a New Year.

A quick reminder that Santa Claus is coming to town on Friday, Dec. 4, at 7 p.m. at the Charlotte Hobbs Memorial Library. The next day, Dec. 5, the Lewis Dana Hill Library will hold an Open House from 9 a.m. to noon. All are invited to come and enjoy the cookies and a cup of good cheer coffee, or hot chocolate for the kids.

The Fryeburg/Lovell VFW Post will hold a concert with Fan Fare on Saturday, Dec. 5, at 6:30 p.m.

Remember when a lady didn’t enter a church without a hat? As days went by, not only didn’t the ladies wear hats, they wore pants, long ones, to church. The Lovell United Church of Christ is not only bringing back hats, but the formality of a High Tea — oh, sigh, the clotted cream — on Saturday, Dec 12, from 2 to 4 p.m. This event will be the first Christmas Tea at the church; to join in on the fun, ladies, search and see if you have a hat. You might even want to trim one in the holiday spirit. We not only will have tea but all the yummy fixings to go with it, including scones. To make the scene complete, the gentlemen of the church will be our servers — isn’t that a hoot. All the ladies of the town who would like to take some time off from shopping are invited to attend. Space is limited, so make your reservation by calling 925-6875, or via e-mail, ezwind57@gmail.com The Lovell Historical Society will be holding an open house at the Kimball-Stanford House on Sunday, Dec. 13, from 1 to 4 p.m. Marge Ward will be hosting the Hospitality Table, which you can enjoy after touring the holidaydecorated house. There will be all sorts of goodies for all to share while you chat. For the children, there will be LOVELL — The gingerbread man decorating. Charlotte Hobbs Memorial Some of the local busi- Library invites the whole ness will be showing their community this Friday, wares at the open house. This Dec. 4, at 7 p.m. to start year’s raffle includes three the holiday season off with wonderful donations — $100 some good cheer. The town’s Christmas tree will be lit at 7 p.m. sharp, followed by singing of some favorite carols with the help of the Fryeburg Academy choir.

If the group sings loud

Lovell

by Ethel Gilmore-Hurst Lovell Correspondent 925-3226 ehurst3@yahoo.com gift certificate to Ebenezer’s Pub, $100 gift certificate to the Oxford House Inn and a $200 gift certificate for a heating fuel purchase. These donations were made by Chris and Jen Lively, Natalie and Jonathan Spak and Hal and Carol Taylor, who strongly support the Lovell Historical Society. Members have books of tickets at $5 for a book of six, or $1 per ticket.

The drawing will at 3 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 13.

The Historical Society also has two gifts pertaining to Lovell: a map of Kezar Lake for $100, and a Lake Kezar 1930s DVD for $10.

The Lovell United Church of Christ has the online auction up and running, and there are many items to bid on that could be your Christmas gift to someone. They run the gamut, from blueberry cakes to small dorm refrigerators, to bidding on a dinner for four, to gadgets or home decorations. You can either use the www.lovellucc.org site or the auction site http. www.luccauction.org The upcoming season is for kids. So Santa Claus is coming to Lovell, at the Santa’s Workshop at the New Suncook School on Saturday, Dec. 12, from 9 a.m. to noon. Santa’s helpers, the elves, will help the kids make a gift for the

people they love. I still have some that kids have given to me for all the wonderful memories. Each student will receive a ticket that will allow them one free gift and another can be bought for $1. There’ll be some other activities going on, which also will be in a future column.

The Fryeburg Historical Society will be holding the Second Annual Christmas Tea on Friday, Dec. 4, from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Colonel Samuel Osgood House on Portland Street.

It’s a lovely way to spend an afternoon walking through this 1832 house decked out for the season. On display is a collection of vintage hats, which can be used for the ladies to wear while enjoying the tea and other goodies. There will be a $10 donation at the door, which will go toward preserving the history of Fryeburg.

The Leura Hill Eastman Performing Arts Center’s Bradley Backstage Concert Series will present local musical artist Jed Wilson and his Trio on Friday, Dec. 11, at 7:30 p.m. With Jed on piano, Jacob Forbes on the drums and Kinnon Church on bass, this will be a jiving concert. Originally from Portland, Ore., Jed has made a name for himself. A graduate from the New England Conservatory, with a bachelor’s degree in jazz, he has had many albums, including one with his sister-in-law, Heather Masse. When Jed gets going, you can’t help but tap your toes and want to join in. Tickets for adults are $15 and $5 for students. For reservations, visit www.fryeburgacademy.org/pac or call 935-9232.

The Lovell Rec Department will be selling Christmas trees, on display at Rosie’s. All monies earned go toward the programs sponsored by the Rec. The Rec Department has made arrangements with the New Suncook School for the school to be open to walkers Monday through Thursday, from 3 to 5 p.m.

Tree lighting, King book raffle at Hobbs Library

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enough, they might convince Santa and Mrs. Claus to stop by. They usually travel through Lovell on a big red fire truck. The library will serve cookies, coffee and hot chocolate, and all children will have a chance to

visit with Santa and receive a small literary gift. Anyone who would like to help bake for this popular event are asked to call the library at 925-3177 and let them know.

This year the library hopes to help Santa buy

these presents, with monies raised from the Stephen King Book Raffle. You can support this popular community gathering by buying a ticket for $5; each ticket will give you five chances to win a signed Stephen King book.

Common Folk Farm Christmas classes

Master Food Preserver Betsey Golon is offering a series of Christmas classes at her homestead, Common Folk Farm at 23 Kimball Road in Naples. Golon is a Master Food Preserver for the University of Maine Cooperative Extension, and it is her passion to share her knowledge of canning, dehydration and other food preservation skills.

Betz limits her classes to six students to give individualized attention, and offers two sessions each day, either 9 a.m. to noon or 1 to 4 p.m.

The $55 cost includes all

materials and teatime.

• Wednesday, Dec. 9 — Williamsburg Boxwood Wreath. Everything to create a beautiful wreath that lasts for years, with an “Old Virginia” teatime included.

• Thursday, Dec. 10 — Jam and Tea. You will make red raspberry amaretto jam and your own tea blend. Betz will give a background on blending tea and participants will enjoy tea and scones.

• Wednesday, Dec. 16 — A Lavender Christmas.

Lavender ornaments and then a tea with lavender cookies and lavender lemon

Christmas caroling and tree lighting in Brownfield

Join us at the BCC on Deember 6 at 3:30 p.m. for a ride down Main Street. We will be singing Christmas Carols and hope to find Santa along the way. We will then return to the Town office to light our new town Christmas tree. Finish the evening enjoying free refreshments and hot drinks at the BCC. Donations of refreshments would be greatly appreciated.

shortbread. All recipes are included, and there’ll be ornaments and samples to take home.

• Thursday, Dec. 17 — Everything but the turkey!

You will make and savor

homemade cranberry bourbon sauce, herbal butter, soup seasoning and cool-rise yeast rolls. You will also take recipes and samples home.

To register and get directions, call 787-2764.

SAD 61

Lunch Menu

SAD #61 Elementary School

Monday, November 7 — Friday, November 11 MONDAY: Baked chicken nuggets, dipping sauce, wheat pull-apart roll, sweet corn, fruit.

TUESDAY: Hot dog on whole grain bun, baked beans, veggie sticks, fruit, low-fat chocolate chip cookie.

WEDNESDAY: Baked chicken patty on whole grain bun, fresh salad bar, fruit.

THURSDAY: Personal pan pizza, fresh salad bar, fruit.

FRIDAY: French toast sticks, syrup, sausage patty, celery sticks w/Sun butter, fruit.

SAD #61 Middle School

Monday, November 7 — Friday, November 11 MONDAY: Pizza, baked chicken nuggets, dipping sMONDAY: Bosco 4” cheese stick, marinara dipping sauce, chicken nuggets w/sauce, carrot sticks & coins, deli sandwich, fruit bar.

TUESDAY: Cheeseburger or hamburger on whole grain bun, baked sweet potato fries, deli sandwich, fresh salad bar, fruit bar.

WEDNESDAY: Beef tacos, taco bar w/romaine, salsa & sour cream, deli sandwich, fruit bar.

THURSDAY: Shepherd’s pie w/turkey, fresh salad bar, deli sandwich, fruit bar.

FRIDAY: Personal pan pizza, deli sandwich, fresh salad bar, baked chips, fruit bar.

Enroll now for Affordable Care Act coverage

rving Now se Wine 207-647-5211 Open Daily • Wi-Fi Beer & www.bethskitchencafe.com

Starting Nov. 3 and continues every Tuesday!

Do you need health insurance? Do you need to re-enroll in the health coverage you now have? The open enrollment period for purchasing health insurance through the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare) is Nov. 1, 2015 to Jan. 31, 2016. You must apply by Tuesday, Dec. 15 if you want coverage to start Jan. 1, 2016. Amy March, Certified Navigator, will answer your questions and/or help you apply at the Bridgton Community Center. Call 452-2493. Her help is free, confidential, and impartial.

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The winning tickets will be drawn on Wednesday, Dec. 23. Stop by the library anytime it is open to get your tickets; they will also be on sale at the tree lighting party.

For more information, visit: www.hobbslibrary.org

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Helen…

“I’m about 5 years old and I like attention, but I don’t always like other cats. I would definitely stand up to a dog. Every morning when they clean I enjoy my time roaming around the shelter, seeing everyone and everything. I do have to be on a prescription diet because I have some digestive issues every now and then. I play like a kitten!”

Visit our website to see other cats and dogs waiting for a new home! www.harvest-hills.org

Country living

December 3, 2015, The Bridgton News, Page 5B

Promise Singers annual concert The Promise Singers will once again present their festive Annual Christmas Concerts.

The first concert of the season will be in Denmark on Tuesday, Dec. 8 at 7 p.m., with a snow date of Dec. 9. The

performance will be held at the Denmark Congregational Church on Route 117. The concert is open to all and admission is free. Donations will be accepted and given to local causes.

The Bridgton perfor-

mance will be presented on Tuesday, Dec. 15 at the First Congregational Church on South High Street at 7 p.m.; snow date is Dec. 16.

The program includes both traditional and contemporary Christmas music along with

winter selections. The audience will have a chance to join in on traditional carols.

The Promise Singers have been performing together for more than 30 years. Come and enjoy. It’s a great way to begin your holiday season!

Concert

Harrison dancers performing in “The Nutcracker”

Seven young dancers from The Ballroom in Harrison, plus their teacher, Juliette Lauzier, will be dancing in the Maine State Ballet’s production of the holiday classic The Nutcracker at Merrill Auditorium in Portland this Friday through Sunday, Dec. 4-6. The talented

local dancers earning parts in this season’s show are Brielle Catalano, Natalie Gelinas, Rosie Gordon, Hannah Grover, Kaya Joseph, Rianna Reynolds and Acadia Webb.

Lauzier will be dancing in her 36th Nutcracker this season (starting her Nutcracker

career as a little reindeer), having danced with the Maine State Ballet since its inception. This lavish production accompanied by the Maine State Ballet Orchestra is sure to delight audience members of all ages. For tickets, contact PortTix at ticket.porttix.com or

call 842-0800.

The Ballroom offers a wide range of movement arts classes, with a focus on professional dance instruction. For information contact Ballroom Director Nan Brett at her website, www.theballroomharrison.com, or call 583-6964.

MVH to celebrate 20 years SOUTH PARIS — The Maine Veterans’ Home will celebrate 20 years of operation on Wednesday, Dec. 16, with speakers reminiscing about how the facility came to be and its many accomplishments over the years. The event starts at 2 p.m. at the nursing home, located at 477 High Street in South Paris.

The Maine Veterans Home opened their doors on July 26, 1995, after two years under construction. The 90-bed facility is proud of the many veterans, spouses and widows

who have been cared for in the last two decades. Over 2,000 admissions have taken place at the facility, which offers long-term care, skilled nursing and rehabilitation, assisted living and special care dementia.

Although initially filling the 90 beds was slow, the home now boasts an average of 98% occupancy and there are wait lists for interested parties for all levels of care.

The facility has achieved numerous awards for quality of care including the presti-

gious Silver and Bronze level of the American Health Care Association Commitment to Quality, and a 5-star rating for quality of care by a national nursing home satisfaction survey. Locally, through Healthy Oxford Hills, Maine Veterans’ Home has achieved the Work Healthy Award for the past six years.

The celebration will be attended by residents, fami-

lies, and staff, both present and retired, and community members. Tours will be available, and music will be performed by the Oxford Hills Comprehensive High School String Quartet. There will also be a slide show of the facility’s history and refreshments will be served.

For more information, visit www.mainevets.org or call 743-6300.

Heather Pierson and Shawn Nadeau will offer songs from A Charlie Brown Christmas on Thursday, Dec. 10, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Noble House Inn, Highland Road, Bridgton.

Charlie Brown Christmas at Noble House

In what is being billed as “A Noble House Christmas Tradition,” Heather Pierson and Shawn Nadeau will present the musical soundtrack of A Charlie Brown Christmas in an intimate concert at the Noble House Inn on Thursday, Dec. 10, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. They’ll perform songs as sung by the Vince Guaraldi Trio, plus offer other holiday classics and favorites.

The suggested donation is $10-$20. The Noble House Inn is located at 81 Highland Road in Bridgton. For more information or reservations, call 647-3733 or e-mail innkeeper@noblehousebb.com

Memorial Hospital recognized for overall quality

Scott McKinnon.

(Photo by Bill Lee) Mrs. Varney’s 4th grade students at Stevens Brook Elementary School put on an Author’s Tea for their has developed a data-driven families. Students shared their writings from the past trimester, while sampling some tea and cookies. program designed to identify excellence across a broad spectrum of indicators relRIVER STREET (Route 113) FRYEBURG evant to hospital performance Rte. 107, So. Bridgton • Open Daily 9 to Dusk 935-2567 www.westonsfarm.com and patient care.

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Memorial’s President and CEO Scott McKinnon, FACHE, shared, “Quality is the utmost priority at Memorial Hospital and we have put considerable effort and resources towards improving our quality rankings over the years. I am proud of the entire team at Memorial Hospital for achieving this high level of recognition from the National Organization of State Office of Rural Health.”

The rankings have been designated by the Hospital Strength INDEX™, the industry’s most comprehensive and objective assessment of hospital performance. In partnership with NOSORH, iVantage Health Analytics

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Page 6B, The Bridgton News, December 3, 2015

Country living

Moose Landing receives award

Nautic Global Group recognized top dealers — including Moose Landing Marina in Naples — from across the country at their Annual Dealer Meeting.

The event held at the Century Center in South Bend, Ind., featured a business meeting, sales seminars, 2016 product review, and an awards banquet.

Moose Landing Marina was presented an Outstanding Dealer Award as a national sales leader for the Nautic Global Group, Godfrey Pontoon, Rinker, and Hurricane deck boat product lines for the 2015 model year.

In making the presentation, Nautic Global Group CEO, Brad Gates commented, “Successful dealers learn from the past and incorporate that knowledge into their plans for the future; Moose Landing continues to build for the future by marketing NGG products with a superior level of sales and service. We are proud that they are a part of our national dealer family.”

In their The Pilot e-newsletter, Moose Landing Marina reported on a busy season that included finishing a large ramp project and planning for a new service area and new office building next year.

CEO GRATITUDE — Timothy A. Churchill, president and chief executive officer of Western Maine Health, thanked the over 55 members of Stephens Volunteer Services who attended the annual Volunteer Luncheon Oct. 9.

WMH volunteers honored

NORWAY — Western Maine Health volunteers were celebrated and recognized for their dedication and commitment at the annual volunteer luncheon in the Harper Conference Center Oct. 9.

Timothy A. Churchill, president and chief executive officer of Western Maine

Health thanked the volunteers for all the work they do over the course of the year. He recognized the commitment volunteers make to the hospital and the overall benefit they provide.

There are around 60 volunteers in the Stephens Volunteer Services depart-

ment, ranging from ages 16 to 80-plus. They provided over 15,000 hours of service over the past year at a variety of volunteer activities, including patient greeters, chaplains, thrift shop, pet therapy, patient escorts, mended hearts, clerical support at The Birthplace, patient advisors

at the practices, laundry, food and nutrition services. Over 55 volunteers were in attendance at the recognition luncheon.

For those with interest in learning more about opportunities and benefits of volunteering at Stephens Memorial Hospital, contact Sharon Nightingale in the Human Resources Department, or visit the website at www.wmhcc.org

Service Notes

U.S. Army Pvt. Adam M. Butler of Casco has graduated from basic infantry training at Fort Jackson, S.C. During the nine weeks of training, the soldier studied the Army mission, history, tradition and core values, physical fitness, and received instruction and practice in basic combat skills, military weapons, chemical warfare and bayonet training, drill and ceremony, marching, rifle marksmanship, armed and unarmed combat, map reading, field tactics, military courtesy, military justice system, basic first aid, foot marches, and field training exercises.

Adam is the son of Laura A. Butler of Casco, and is a 2015 graduate of Lake Region High School.

Tuxes and Tails gala benefit nets $34,000

New Chamber member The Greater Bridgton Lake Region Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce its newest member — the Bear Mountain Inn in Waterford, a picturesque four-season lakefront resort and wedding venue overlooking Bear Lake.

The Inn has 11 rooms including twobedroom family suites, and large luxury suites with in-room Jacuzzi and fireplace.

They also rent a two-story home and a quaint dog-friendly cottage. They can be reached at 583-4404.

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The annual Tuxes and Tails Gala to benefit the Conway Area Humane Society brought in a net of over $34,000 to benefit the animals in the society’s care.

The Nov. 14 gala was held at the Attitash Grand Summit Hotel in Bartlett, N.H. The extraordinary evening

of giving included a sold-out audience that enjoyed a live and silent auction, stories and videos about the shelter animals and dinner. The board of directors of CAHS wishes to extend a huge thank you to all who attended and donated to the cause.

The nonprofit Conway

Area Humane Society relies on donations, as less than 40% of its revenue is covered by program services, sales and adoption fees. The shelter is located at 223 E. Main St. in Conway, N.H. Visit www.conwayshelter.org for more information or call 603-447-5955.

Little White Church to hold Christmas concert

EATON, N.H. — Celebrate the coming of Christmas and winter by delighting in some of the season’s most evocative music, when pianist Dana Cunningham and cellist Max Dyer, along with special guest Julia Hendrikson, perform in concert at Eaton Village’s distinctive landmark Little White Church, 4 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 6.

The first week of December is one of natural quiet beauty, before all the excited hustle leading up to the holidays. For many fans, Dana’s deeply expressive annual December Sunday afternoon concerts are a can’t-be-missed tradition. Her beautiful original arrangements of classic seasonal compositions, such as “In the Bleak Midwinter” and “Once in Royal David’s City,” take us to a special place where we remember the real reasons that our hearts celebrate this time of year.

Advance purchase of tick-

Hospital

(Continued from Page 5B)

gates data from 66 individual metrics into three major categories and nine pillars to derive a single strength overall rating for each facility.

“These top quartile performers should take great pride in this recognition. It showcases their commitment to continuous performance analysis and improvement. On this occasion of National Rural Health Day, it’s an honor to celebrate their achievement as they continue to serve their communities despite the many market, regulatory and financial pressures they face,” said Michael Topchik, senior vice president of iVantage Health Analytics.

CHRISTMAS CONCERT — Pianist Dana Cunningham and cellist Max Dyer will perform on Sunday, Dec. 6, at the Little White Church in Eaton, N.H. ets is strongly recommended. Eaton Village Store. They Tickets are $35. They are can also be purchased online sold at White Birch Books by visiting www.danacunin North Conway and at the ningham.com

CMP joins mitten drive Central Maine Power Co. is joining forces with WMTW-TV (Channel 8) to keep Maine kids warm this winter. The utility is launching its 12th annual Community Mitten Drive, and WMTW is supporting the event through a series of public-service announcements.

“We’re accepting donations of new, store-bought or handmade mittens, hats, and scarves to help keep Maine kids warm this winter,” says CMP spokeswoman Gail Rice. “We’ll have collection boxes at all Reny’s retail stores and Androscoggin Bank branches.”

A list of locations is posted on CMP’s website at www.cmpco.com/GivingBack/inthecommunity/mittendrive.html CMP’s Community Mitten Drive traces its roots to a local effort started by a group of employees at the utility’s Portland Service Center. In 2004, the company decided to launch a larger program to cover children throughout its 11,000-square-mile service area in central and southern Maine. Over the past 11 years, CMP has distributed more than 50,000 pieces of winter gear to local youngsters.

Regional Sports

December 3, 2015, The Bridgton News, Page 1C

Raider named Player of Year

By Wayne E. Rivet Staff Writer FRYEBURG — Nicole Thurston doesn’t quite remember why she decided to play field hockey, but at the age of 4, she quickly found a love for the game.

“I honestly don’t remember why, but I started with Coach Frost’s youth camp at the age of 4 and I stuck with it. She taught me the love of the game and I never looked back,” Nicole said.

She made the right choice.

A senior at Fryeburg Academy, Nicole was voted as the top field hockey player in the Western Maine Conference, thus earning the Linda B. Whitney Award. The honor was voted on by coaches in the WMC and acknowledges Nicole for her hard work, dedication, statistical achievements and overall contribution to the game of field hockey over her four years of varsity play.

“She is truly deserving of this honor and I am so excited to see her receive it (at an upcoming banquet),” said FA varsity field hockey coach Dede Frost. “Obviously, Nicole’s athletic ability does not go unnoticed on the field hockey field, but she brings much more than that to her team. She understands the meaning of competition and intensity while putting sportsmanship first. She leads by example and inspires all those around her to give 100% at all times. Her passion is really what sets her apart...it’s CONFERENCE’S TOP PLAYER — Fryeburg Acaademy senior Nicole Thurston was a force on the field hockey contagious!”

Nicole has been an offensive juggernaut, leading the field this past fall, scoring 19 goals and leading the Raiders to a top berth in Class B West. She was selected the recipient of the Linda B. Whitney Award, given to the conference’s top player.

(Rivet Photo) PLAYER OF YEAR, Page 5C

Friday is opening night for winter sports BOYS’ BASKETBALL Head coach: John Mayo, first year Assistant Coaches: JV Coach Andrew Stacey, Assistant Matt Langadas Top returning athletes: Three returning starters — seniors Jack Lesure, Nate Smith Senior and Marcus DeVoe. Senior Brandon Palmer, junior Tyler Walker, senior Nick Wandishin and senior Alex Langadas all saw minutes last year and will make an impact this year Top newcomers: Seniors Damon Knight, Ryan Hodgdon and Doug Banks played most of their minutes at the JV level last year, but they are expected to contribute this year at the varsity level.

Remaining roster members: Seniors Lexus Rodrigues and Trenton Hartford; junior Douglas Mayo; and sophomores Tristen Chaine and True Meyers.

Team strengths: Depth at all positions.

Areas needing improvement: Free throw shooting and rebounding (the Lakers lost its strongest rebounders from last year’s team, which reached the Class B West finals).

Three keys to a successful season: Play together as a team; play team defense; and stay mentally tough for four quarters.

Players to watch: Jack Lesure and Nate Smith for their leadership talent and poise on the floor; and Marcus DeVoe for speed, quickness and ability to change a game.

What lesson do you hope the athletes learned a year ago that will help them this year: “We have to play our game for the whole game and not get caught up in what the other team is doing,” Coach Mayo said.

What do you like about this group: Coach Mayo — “They listen, work hard everyday and are willing to get better everyday.”

What story line will you be most interested in watching develop? Lake Region’s success is truly a team effort and every game has many players contributing, the coach said.

The Schedule Saturday, Dec. 5, Wells, 6:00 Tuesday, Dec. 8, at Yarmouth, 7:00 Friday, Dec. 11, at Lincoln Academy, 6:30 Thursday, Dec. 17, at Traip Academy, 6:30 Saturday, Dec. 19, Old LAKER, Page 2C

MARCUS DEVOE, a senior, gives the Lakers both a strong outside shooting presence, as well as athletic moves to the hoop.

(Rivet Photo)

SPENCER TRUE (right) and the Lakers will need to win some physical battles this season because the team lacks overall size.

(Rivet Photo)

BOYS’ BASKETBALL Head Coach: Sedge Saunders, 18th year JV Coach: Ryan Wallace, third year Freshmen Coach: Chris Gaskin, first year Volunteer Assistant: Charlie Tryder Last year: Lost in the Class B prelim. This year, Maine basketball has expanded to five classes, adding “AA.” The Raiders, based on school enrollment, has moved from Class B to Class A. Top returning players: Seniors Ben Darling and Nicholis L’Heureux-Carland.

Ben, a 6-foot guard, provided some clutch shooting last year and will be counted on to carry more of the load offensively this year. Nick is a 6-foot-3 forward, who is a four-year varsity player and his experience and size are vital for the Raiders, especially with such a young and guard-oriented team.

Sophomore Cody Gullikson, who played valuable minutes last year and played tough defense. He has the ability to go hard to the rim. “He had a great football season and we expect that tenacity to carry over to basketball season,” Coach Saunders said.

Joe Lebrun is a returning swing player who has improved his shooting range as he transitions from post to perimeter. “We like the match-up problems he can create with his inside/ out capabilities,” Coach Saunders said.

Isaac Wakefield is another swing player last year who is hard-nosed football player who will give FA the needed muscle inside to compete in Class A. “Isaac is fearless and has become a competitive pick and roll player for us,” the coach said.

On the roster: The Raiders will have 10 new players to the roster, which Coach Saunders is “excited about the potential” this group has. They include: Roy Elol is a senior new to the program from Israel/ Serbia and has a deep passion for the game. Roy is a 5-foot-10 guard who brings a solid work ethic.

Will Davis is a 5-foot-8 junior who moved up from the JV team and has the tools to be a good point guard down the road. “Will plays great on the ball defense and is very unselfish. As his ball skills improve he will be battling for minutes at the point guard position,” Coach RAIDER, Page 3C

CODY GULLIKSON (right) will need to bring even more tenacity on defense as the Raiders move up to Class A this winter.

(Rivet Photo)

LEXI L’HEUREUX-CARLAND (left) and the veteran Raiders look to make noise in Class A West this winter.

(Rivet Photo)

Page 2C, The Bridgton News, December 3, 2015

Regional sports

Laker guide (Continued from Page 1C)

Orchard Beach, 7:00 Tuesday, Dec. 22, Maranacook, 6:30 Tuesday, Jan. 5, at Falmouth, 7:00 Thursday, Jan. 7, Freeport, 7:00 Saturday, Jan. 9, Cape Elizabeth, 7:00 Tuesday, Jan. 12, at Gray-NG, 7:00 Friday, Jan. 15, at Wells, 7:00 Monday, Jan. 18, Poland, 7:00 Thursday, Jan. 21, Waynflete, 7:00 Saturday, Jan. 23, at Sacopee Valley, 6:00 Tuesday, Jan. 26, at Kennebunk, 6:30 Saturday, Jan. 30, Fryeburg Academy, 6:00 Tuesday, Feb. 2, Yarmouth, 7:00 Thursday, Feb. 4, at Freeport, 7:00 GIRLS’ BASKETBALL Head Coach: Paul True, 11th year Assistant Coaches: Chris Jordan, Meghan Craffey JV Coach: Raquel Gerry Top returning athletes: Senior Spencer True; juniors Kristen Huntress, Melody Millett, Kaylyn Jordan; sophomores Chandler True and Lauren Jakobs.

Top newcomers: Senior Kaitlyn Terry; sophomores Melissa Bonefant, Rachel Shanks and Aisley Sturk; freshman Brooke Harriman.

Team strengths: Ability to stretch the defense; solid halfcourt offense; overall team speed.

Areas needing improvement: Physicality; finishing at the rim; making good decisions. “We shy away from contact, therefore, blocking out, at both ends of the court, can be an issue,” Coach True said. “When you are not physical, you don’t protect gaps as well or sacrifice your body to take a charge.”

Three keys to a successful season: Develop a competitive mindset; playing together; staying healthy.

Players to watch: Kristen Huntress, “She has shown the ability to be a major offensive threat, as well as a top defender,” Coach True said.

Melody Millett, “She has been a physical presence in the preseason. She brings toughness that our team needs.”

Spencer True, “Her leadership will help bring along our younger players.”

Lauren Jakobs and Chandler True, “Offensively, each of them have the ability to put up big offensive nights.”

What lesson do you hope the athletes learned a year ago that will help them this year: Coach True — “I hope they learned that we need to win in the locker room before we can win out on the floor. If team chemistry is an issue, kids don’t enjoy playing with each other. I believe it all starts in the locker room, which will determine if we can reach our KRISTEN HUNTRESS, a junior guard, will be one of potential as a team. You can’t play to your potential if you Lake Region’s top offensive threats this winter. She is also lack 100% trust in your teammates.”

What do you like about this group: “They are outstanda lockdown defender, Coach Paul True said. ing human beings. We had a situation in practice that a player got knocked down by accident and the team completely stopped playing out of concern for their teammate instead of finishing the play and checking the player after. They are really nice, caring kids,” Coach True said. “With a group like this, it is really enjoyable to coach because you know they are going to do the right thing.”

What story line will you be most interested in watching develop: “The biggest story line will be how well they play together and how they develop during the year with such a young crew,” Coach True said. “In what way will their competitive natures surface?”

Another story line will be how Lake Region fares in a reshaped Class B. With the addition of Class AA, some teams such as Cape, York, Falmouth and Fryeburg Academy moved to Class A, while teams such as Lincoln Academy and Maranacook slide onto the Laker schedule, as does Traip Academy and Old Orchard Beach.

“I’ll miss the rivalry we had with York because for about a decade, we played against each other in some very big (playoff) games,” Coach True said.

The Schedule Friday, Dec. 4, at Wells, 7:00 Tuesday, Dec. 8, at Yarmouth, 5:30 Friday, Dec. 11, Lincoln Academy, 6:30 Thursday, Dec. 17, Traip Academy, 6:30 Saturday, Dec. 19, at Old Orchard Beach, 2:30 Monday, Dec. 21, at Maranacook, 6:30 Tuesday, Jan. 5, Falmouth, 7:00 Thursday, Jan. 7, Freeport, 5:30 Saturday, Jan. 9, at Cape Elizabeth, 4:00 Tuesday, Jan. 12, Gray-NG, 6:30 Thursday, Jan. 14, Wells, 6:30 Monday, Jan. 18, at Poland, 3:30 Thursday, Jan. 21, Waynflete, 4:00 2T48

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BRANDON PALMER (right) makes a strong move to the basket against Laker alum Alex Hartford last Wednesday night. (Rivet Photos)

RYAN HODGDON will look to offset the loss of two leading rebounders this season. Here, he looks to block a shot

by LR alum Matt Plummer.

Saturday, Jan. 23, Sacopee Valley, 1:30 Tuesday, Jan. 26, Kennebunk, 6:30 Friday, Jan. 29, at Fryeburg Academy, 6:30 Tuesday, Feb. 2, Yarmouth, 5:30 Thursday, Feb. 4, at Freeport, 5:30 ALPINE SKIING Head Coach: Charles O’Brien, fifth year Top returning athletes: Taylor Davis

ICE HOCKEY Head Coach: Dave Lepage, 10th year Assistant Coaches: Mike Misner, Jeff Lovering Ice Cats: Players from Lake Region, Fryeburg Academy and Oxford Hills Top returning athletes: Seniors, Kaleb Currier, Nick Lepage, Trent Spaulding and Matt Buchanon; juniors, Huxley Lovering, Cam Hill and Simon Misner.

Top newcomers: junior Jordan Ohayon and sophomore Jared Chisari.

Remaining roster members: senior Taylor Fillebrown; juniors Bowen Greenleaf and Trey Dekutoski; sophomore Dominic Sclafani; freshmen Liam Chisari and Justin Mushrow.

Team strengths: Although limited in numbers, the team this year brings a good amount of hockey experience with them.

Many of the top two lines have played for a while now and have played together for many years. The Ice Cats’ skating ability will keep them in games, but their conditioning will be a huge factor in determining final outcomes.

Areas needing improvement: Scoring has been a challenge for the Ice Cats over the past few years. “Creating scoring chances is one thing, but cashing in on those chances consistently will be an area that we need to continue to give effort toward,” Coach Lepage said.

Three keys to a successful season: Stay

LAKER, Page 4C

healthy, stay eligible and continue to work as a team.

Players to watch: Coach Lepage — “I think the defensive core of Lepage, Currier and Hill are all solid hockey players and can definitely add on both ends of the ice.

They have strong hockey sense and can add some scoring punch when we need it.

Offensively, I am looking to players like Lovering, Ohayon, Misner and Chisari to create those chances for us. All are very good skaters and have engines that don’t quit.

Goalie Trent Spaulding has proven to be a solid goal tender and will keep us in some tight games.”

What lesson do you hope the athletes learned a year ago that will help them this year: “The only way this is going to work is playing together. Communication is key and having good team chemistry can actually help you win the tight games,” Coach Lepage said. “Our playoff experience from past years should provide us with enough belief to play like we mean it in the later part of the season.”

What do you like about this group: “I like that this group has fun. They are willing to take some risks, but I have also learned that we don’t take ourselves too seriously,” the coach said. “They are competitive but also have the ability to lighten it up when need be.”

ICE CATS, Page 4C

Regional sports

December 3, 2015, The Bridgton News, Page 3C

Raider guide (Continued from Page 1C)

Saunders said.

Oscar Herras is a new member of the team courtesy of Spain. Oscar is a 5-foot-10 guard, who brings a variety of skills to the hardwood and will be asked to do a lot for the Raiders as he adjusts to the learning curve of basketball here in Maine.

Jahmi Seely Brown is a 5-foot-10 sophomore who was at Biddeford High School last year. Jahmi is a good open court player who is learning the nuances of playing the point in a program that demands a lot from its floor general.

Scott Parker is a 5-foot-9 guard who moves up from the JV team. “Scott is a kid who has a great motor and is very coachable. He has improved significantly and will continue to do so because of his strong work ethic,” Coach Saunders said.

Tucker Buzzell is a 5-foot-10 freshman, who defensively, is ready to play at the varsity level. His offensive game gets better every day and because of his high athletic IQ he is able to compete at the varsity level even though he is only a freshman, Coach Saunders said.

Oscar Saunders is a 5-foot-9 freshman, who also has a good basketball IQ and has a decent array of offensive skill.

Once his defense intensity becomes more consistent, he will also be able to compete at the Class A level.

Team strengths: “We have good team quickness, a better than average basketball IQ, and have some guys who can really shoot the ball when they get going,” — Coach Saunders.

Areas needing improvement: The Raiders lack experience at the varsity level and rebounding could be an issue at times.

Three keys to a successful season: “This team will be successful because they play together, they get along on and off the court, and the love to compete. Many played on the football team and they bring a winning attitude to the basketball court. We have a lot of two and three-sport athletes, which helps us be a more competitive team,” Coach Saunders said.

What do you like about this group: Coach Saunders — “I like this group because they are very coachable and they have a good foundation of skills and are able to grasp offensive and defensive concepts quite rapidly. We are young, but should improve significantly as the season progresses.”

What story line will you be most interested in watching develop? “It’s a brave new world for us with all the new players and playing in Class A (we play Biddeford, Westbrook, Marshwood and Leavitt twice) with some new opponents. These kids won’t be phased a bit by all of this.

They seem to like to compete no matter who they play or whatever the circumstances,” Coach Saunders said.

The Schedule Tuesday, Dec. 8, at Poland, 6:30 Friday, Dec. 11, Leavitt, 6:30 Tuesday, Dec. 15, at Cape Elizabeth, 6:30 Saturday, Dec. 19, York, 2:00 Tuesday, Dec. 22, Marshwood, 6:00 Wednesday, Dec. 30, at Westbrook, 7:00 Saturday, Jan. 2, at Leavitt, 6:30 Tuesday, Jan. 5, Gray-New Gloucester, 6:30 Thursday, Jan. 7, Waynflete, 6:30 Saturday, Jan. 9, at Kennebunk, 2:00 Tuesday, Jan. 12, Greely, 6:30 Friday, Jan. 15, at Freeport, 6:30 Monday, Jan. 18, at Biddeford, 1:00 Friday, Jan. 22, Falmouth, 7:00 Tuesday, Jan. 26, Wells, 6:30 Saturday, Jan. 30, at Lake Region, 6:00 Tuesday, Feb. 2, at York, 6:30 Thursday, Feb. 4, Cape Elizabeth, 7:00 GIRLS’ BASKETBALL Head Coach: Sean Watson, fourth year Assistant Coaches: Coreen Eccelston, Chris Dutton Last year: Lost in the Class B prelim Top returning athletes: All 11 players return from last year. The Raiders had no seniors last year. The roster includes: juniors Makayla Cooper, Nicole Bennett, Alexandra Fraize, Kaylin Delaney and Mackenzie Buzzell; seniors Alexis L’Heureux-Carland, Katherine Parker, Sage Boivin, Julia Quinn, McKenna Gerchman and Bridget Bailey.

Top newcomers: None Team strengths: The Raiders had most everyone committed to the summer program. Those that committed, showed athleticism, quickness, hustle and an increase in unselfish play, Coach Watson said.

Areas needing improvement: Team first play, scoring in transition, full court defense and communication.

Three keys to a successful season: Coach Watson — “We need to be tougher, faster, and smarter than we were last season. We need to be tougher, faster, and smarter than every team we play this season.”

Players to watch: “This season, it is all about the team,” Coach Watson said. “Hopefully, we can watch an unselfish team play for something greater than themselves. Hopefully, we can create some synergy and we won’t have to worry about watching for individual players.”

Lessons learned a year ago that will help the team

This week’s game solutions

FA COACH SEAN WATSON will guide an experienced team into the new Class A West ranks as the Raiders return all 11 players from a year ago.

(Rivet Photos) this year: “I think it was pretty clear that the game can’t be played well without teamwork. Teams win and a collection of individual players do not,” the coach said. “If we are going to experience any level of success everyone has to buy in to a team first, second and third mentality.”

What do you like about this team: Coach Watson — “I like our potential, our basketball ability, our pace of play, and the stated willingness of each and every player on the roster to put the team before their individual wants.”

What story line will you be most interested in watching develop? “Every player committed to putting the team ahead of themselves. I am curious to see if that holds true during times of adversity. I know we can play as a team. We demonstrated that this summer and in the preseason. I am curious to see if we can play as a team when it really counts,” Coach Watson said.

The Schedule Tuesday, Dec. 8, Poland, 6:30 Friday, Dec. 11, at Leavitt, 6:30 Tuesday, Dec. 15, Cape Elizabeth, 6:00 Saturday, Dec. 19, at York, 5:00 Tuesday, Dec. 22, at Marshwood, 6:00 Wednesday, Dec. 30, Westbrook, 4:00 Saturday, Jan. 2, Leavitt, 6:30 Tuesday, Jan. 5, at Gray-New Gloucester, 6:00 Thursday, Jan. 7, at Waynflete, 5:00, varsity only Saturday, Jan. 9, Kennebunk, 6:30 Tuesday, Jan. 12, at Greely, 6:30 Friday, Jan. 15, Freeport, 6:30 Monday, Jan. 18, Biddeford, 5:00 Friday, Jan. 22, at Falmouth, 6:30 Monday, Jan. 25, at Wells, 6:30 Friday, Jan. 29, Lake Region, 6:30 Tuesday, Feb. 2, York, 6:30 Thursday, Feb. 4, at Cape Elizabeth, 6:30 INDOOR TRACK Head coaches: Kevin McDonald and Bobby Collins Program: Enters sixth year Top returning athletes: Sprints, Skye Collins, Orie INSTANT OFFENSE — Raider senior guard Julia Quinn Inirio, Emily McDermith and Olivia Pelkie; Distance, Anna (right) is capable of hitting the long ball, as well as beat Lastra; Throws, Colleen Bullard. defenders off the dribble with her speed.

Sprints: Jake Maidment, Spencer Thomas, Evan Wadsworth and Victor Yang; Distance, Cole LeBlond; Throws, Baha Demir; Jumps Victor Yang.

FRYEBURG, Page 5C

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Page 4C, The Bridgton News, December 3, 2015

Regional sports

Lake Region winter sports guide been racing since they were very young children. Being able to watch them both potentially compete for Western Maine Top newcomers: Paige Davis, Johnathan Grant, Molly Conference titles and maybe State titles this year will be fun Nichols and Karly Nichols. to watch,” Coach O’Brien said. “The other is the development Team strengths: All skiers share a common love of winter of the new, younger racers. My team consists of four freshman and the sport of skiing. and one senior. Watching the improvement week to week will Areas of improvement: Depth, figuring out how to get be a lot of fun for me.” more kids that love skiing and winter to join the team. “They are doing awesome so far during dry land (training) and if INDOOR TRACK they continue to work hard like they are, they should be able Head Coach: Mark Snow, sixth year to improve their skiing,” Coach O’Brien said.

Assistant Coach: Dana Caron, sixth year — throws and Three keys to success: Consistency, hard work and focus. strength training What lesson do you hope the athletes learned a year ago Volunteer coach: Dan Dors — hurdles and mentor that will help them this year: “I hope that being more focused Top returning athletes (girls): and staying in the moment will help the team this year,” the Audrey Blais SR 800m coach said.

Keyana Prescott SR pole vault What do you like about this group: “There are a lot of Catherine Christiansen JR sprints young skiers this year. I like that. We have a good base to Jacqueline Morse JR sprints & jumps build on for the future of our team,” Coach O’Brien said.

Meghan Boos JR hurdles What story line will you be most interested in watchSam DeSouza SOPH shot put ing develop: “There are two story lines to follow this year.

Danica Chadwick SOPH hurdles & jumps The first being the Davis siblings. Both Taylor and Paige Hannah Chadwick SOPH jumps have extensive backgrounds in the sport of ski racing, having Maraia Nason SOPH shot put & high jump Top newcomers: Emily Colson FR middle distance Olivia Toole FR middle distance Remaining roster: Zoe Snow SR shot put Hannah Parsons SR sprints Addie Blais JR distance Cell: 207-939-2938 Aaryana Aliyaha SOPH sprints www.russsweetmainehomes.com Isabelle Davis-White SOPH hurdles, jumps Andrea Johnston SOPH multi-events Rte. 302 • P.O. Box 97, Lindsey Keenan SOPH sprints Naples, ME 04055 Maggie Luce SOPH sprints 207-693-7000 Dorothy Moyse SOPH sprints Russell Sweet INDEPENDENTLY OWNED Autumn Tremblay SOPH shot put & jumps AND LOCALLY OPERATED Broker Kennedy Brake FR distance Emma Brown FR sprints Top returning athletes (boys): Nick Scarlett SR 800m & jumps Matt Stenger SR shot put Theo Snow SOPH hurdles Thomas Noble SOPH sprints & jumps Top newcomers: Dakota Stover JR sprints & jumps Josh Perkins JR multi-events Tim Holbrook FR jumps Aaron Black FR sprints Cameron Meserve FR middle distance Remaining roster: Camden Keller SOPH shot put Patrick Connelly FR hurdles & sprints Alex Creaser FR distance Shea Durgin FR sprints Caleb Emery FR distance Andrew Gianattasio FR distance Brandon Ross FR middle distance Team strengths (girls): The Lakers will gain their most points in the junior events (for freshmen and sophomores).

Sam, Danica, Hannah and Maraia scored often in meets last year. Now, the Lakers have Emily, Olivia and other (Continued from Page 2C)

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AUDREY BLAIS, a senior, will anchor some of the distance events for the Lake Region indoor track & field team this winter.

(Rivet Photo) new team members who should contribute in that division.

The Lakers will also garner a few points in some open events with Keyana pole vaulting, Audrey in the 800m and mile, and Danica, Hannah, and Jackie in the long and triple jumps.

Team strengths (boys): Most of LR’s points this year should come from the jumping events. Dakota, Nick and Theo have all scored in meets previously. Tim should do well in some junior events.

Areas needing improvement (both teams): “Needing improvement is not a concern. There is more than two months from now until our last meet. We have plenty of time to help each athlete move to his or her next level of competitiveness,” LAKER GUIDE, Page 7C

Ice Cats hockey guide (Continued from Page 2C)

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What story line will you be most interested in watching develop? From a coaching perspective, Coach Lepage thinks there is no better feeling in the world than to watch a team start to believe that they can accomplish something and start believing in one another. “I really feel this team has the ability to do both — start believing that they can be a good hockey team and to believe in each other in the process,” he said.

The Schedule Friday, Dec. 4, South Portland, 7:00 Monday, Dec. 7, Bonny Eagle, 6:10 Wednesday, Dec. 9, at Windham, 8:30 Saturday, Dec. 12, Brunswick, 4:00 Saturday, Dec. 19, Marshwood, 4:00

Wednesday, Dec. 30, at Camden, 7:00 Saturday, Jan. 2, at Bonny Eagle (USM), 6:10 Saturday, Jan. 9, York, 4:00 Wednesday, Jan. 13, at Poland (Norway Savings Arena in Auburn), 7:30 Saturday, Jan. 16, Windham, 4:00 Monday, Jan. 18, Thornton Academy, 12:30 Thursday, Jan. 21, at Mt. Ararat, 5:30 Saturday, Jan. 30, at Noble, 5:30 Wednesday, Feb. 3, at Marshwood, 6:00 Saturday, Feb. 6, at South Portland, 5:50 Monday, Feb. 8, Noble, 6:10 Wednesday, Feb. 10, at Lawrence (Winslow Suki Arena), 5:00 Monday, Feb. 15, Mt. Ararat, 6:10 • All home games played at Bridgton Academy

Regional sports

December 3, 2015, The Bridgton News, Page 5C

Fryeburg Academy winter guide (Continued from Page 3C) “We have 32 athletes with an almost even split. A lot of new faces and tons of potential,” Coach McDonald said.

Team strengths: On the girls’ side — Sprints, Relays and Distance; on the boys’ side — Jumps, Sprints Relays and Throws.

Keys to success: Avoid injury, believe in each other and accept the challenge to be their BEST. Athletes to watch: Brian Ward/Sims, Osage Crie, Kyleigh Rose, Lexi Charles, Grace Condon, Jessica Jensen and Taylor Kruger.

“We are a young, talented group. Will everyone buy into the program? Those that do will see improvement and success,” Coach McDonald said. “We are small in numbers, but should compete for the podium in several events. It is our hope to continue our tradition of sending several athletes to the State Meet and advancing as many of that group to New Englands.”

Outlook: “If the younger athletes gain an understanding of Track & Field and improve throughout the year, our program will be a success,” Coach McDonald said.

The Schedule Friday, Dec. 18, Falmouth, Traip, York, Freeport, Cape Eliabeth, Greely, St. Dom’s, 3:30 Friday, Jan. 8, Cape, Greely, Freeport, Lake Region, North Yarmouth Academy, Wells, St. Dom’s, 6:30 Friday, Jan. 15, Wells, Poland, Traip, Falmouth, NYA, Sacopee Valley, St. Dom’s, 6:30 Friday, Jan. 22, Yarmouth, Wells, NYA, Greely, Poland, Sacopee, St. Dom’s, 4:30 Friday, Jan. 29, Wells, Lake Region, Poland, Traip, NYA, Cape, St. Dom’s, 4:30 Friday, Feb. 5, WMC Championships, 4:00 Saturday, Feb. 13, State Meet, Bates College, 12:00 • All meets, except the State Meet, will be held at the University of Southern Maine field house in Gorham.

ALPINE SKIING Head coach: Sam Dyer The Roster: Senior Harry Leavitt and sophomore Joe Bisulca. “I hope to see Top 10 finishes from Harry this year at Conferences and States, and top 25s from Joe,” Coach Dyer said.

On the girls’ side, junior Laura Friedman, junior Hannah Frye, sophomore Sophie Duane-Leavitt and sophomore Morgan Seebeck.

Top newcomers: Boys’ squad unclear at press time. For the FA girls, junior Kiyanna Monydet, junior Joelle Buzzell, junior Chloe Downs, junior Mia Lorenzen and freshman Brooke Juneau.

Team strengths: Boys — both athletes are good skiers.

Girls — Coach Dyer is expecting great performances from both Sophie and Brooke this year.

Areas needing improvement: More depth.

What I like about this group: “They’re exceptionally positive personalities and personal enjoyment of not just racing but skiing in general,” the coach said.

The Schedule Monday, Jan. 4, GS vs Greely, Gray-NG, Freeport, 4:45 Monday, Jan. 11 S vs Cape, Freeport, Yarmouth, 4:45 Monday, Jan. 18, GS vs Freeport, Yarmouth, Cape, 2:00 Thursday, Jan. 28, GS vs. Kennebunk, Scarborough, Greely, Yarmouth, 5:00 Monday, Feb. 1, S vs Lake Region, Cape, Greely, 4:45 Thursday, Feb. 4 WMC Championships, 10:00 Monday, Feb. 8, GS vs Lake Region, Gray-NG, Cape, Marshwood, Kennebunk, 5:00 Tuesday, Feb. 16, States, Mt. Abram Wednesday, Feb. 17, States, Mt. Abram • All races held at Shawnee Peak, other than State Meet Editor’s note: Due to numbers, Fryeburg Academy does not have a wrestling team or cheering squad this winter. A report on the FA Nordic ski team was unavailable at press time.

Thurston: Player of the Year (Continued from Page 1C)

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SKYE COLLINS of Fryeburrg Academy will be among the top sprinters in Class B this winter.

(Rivet Photo) so we have a long history. I have watched her grow from using a 26-inch stick to a young lady with 40 career goals.

I have seen her grow into a leader and team captain. We have developed routines and rituals in our relationship. She would text me every game day and I would respond with the same exact messages each time. I have smelled tiger balm on bus rides and bandaged bloody knees and fingers. I have listened to balls slam the boards until it was so dark I would have to make her leave. I have watched her laugh hysterically and cry uncontrollably. I will miss and remember all that.”

When the Raiders lost a heartbreaker 2-0 decision to Leavitt in the first-round of the playoffs this fall, the coach and her captain were the last to leave the field. They both cried and hugged, knowing this chapter of the field hockey journey had ended.

“It has been a long wonderful journey and I have been blessed to be a part of it,” Coach Frost said in this message to Nicole. “So remember to never stop playing for the love of the game!”

The News posed the following questions to Nicole: BN. How do you think you have improved over your four years in high school? And, what do you think were your strengths?

Nicole: When I was a freshman, I barely got varsity time. I was a swinger, but I didn’t get my letter until I was a sophomore. My biggest strength was having the determination and opportunity to play off-season as much as possible.

NICOLE, Page 7C

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NICOLE THURSTON (right) received the Raider plaque for field hockey and the coveted Linda B. Whitney Award, selected by coaches to the Western Maine Conference’s top player. Nicole scored 19 goals and recorded 19 assists this past fall. She is pictured with Coach Dede Frost.

Raiders to high finishes in Class B West regular season polls each of her varsity seasons, while scoring 19 goals and 19 assists this past fall. She was one of the league’s top threats from the penalty stroke line, converting several times with laser drives that sailed into the net’s top corners. Nicole combined size, speed and aggressive play in front of the net.

“One of Nicole’s greatest strengths is that she understands the game and loves everything about it. She is a thinker. Every opponent is a challenge, not an obstacle.

She sets her own personal goals on top of team goals. This is why she continued to improved each and every day out on the field,” Coach Frost said. “She never settles for average, she strives to be better. She will practice, even alone, if that’s what it takes to master a skill she has set her mind on. Nicki plays field hockey any time and anywhere she can. You don’t get to be this good just by wishing to be. She has logged more hours on the field hockey field and in her back yard than most players get in a lifetime. She works at it, she challenges herself and she doesn’t stop until she has mastered the next level of play.”

Nicole reached 40 career goals by the end of her four years in high school, being one of the top scorers in the state and the top goal scorer at Fryeburg Academy, ever, Coach Frost said.

“It’s not all about skill though. It’s about heart. She loves the game, that’s the real reason she plays,” the coach said.

“Nicki is a coach’s dream. She is dedicated and passionate. She is coachable and strives to be the best that she can possibly be.”

Nicole has been committed to field hockey at all levels. She is a counselor each summer at youth camp. She works with elementary players on Saturday mornings and is currently helping with a junior high program in Portland.

She will play in college and anywhere else a stick and ball can be found.

“Her love of the game is what drives her and this is what united us at the very beginning,” Coach Frost said. “I began coaching Nicki when she was entering kindergarten

Page 6C, The Bridgton News, December 3, 2015

Regional sports

This week’s puzzle theme:

Year in Review

ACROSS 1. C in ROTC 6. A Bartholomew Cubbins accessory 9. From a great distance 13. Dickens’s Heep 14. Credit card acronym 15. Falstaffian in body 16. One with lowest voice 17. South Pacific welcome 18. Capital territory of India 19. *Escaped Mexican drug lord 21. *Formerly Bruce 23. This is well if it ends well 24. Make over 25. Public health promoting org.

28. “____ and sound” 30. Brilliant or magnificent 35. Fast time 37. Australian palm 39. Sometimes done to a relationship 40. Medley 41. *Presidential candidate and celebrity 43. Printing unit 44. Mandarin’s headquarters 46. ____ crazy 47. Gulf War missile 48. Based on two 50. Change to copy 52. Give it a go 53. Wine and cheese descriptor 55. Jersey call 57. *He visited U.S. with great fanfare 61. *New late night host

65. Hawaiian veranda 66. *____ Paul teamed with Rihanna and Kanye 68. Madagascar primate 69. Set straight 70. ____ you sure?

71. Like one of eight in college basketball 72. Phoenix suburb 73. Swerve 74. Scatterbrained DOWN 1. 27 to 3 2. Kind of account 3. Reduced Instruction Set Computer 4. Turkish bigwig 5. Sandbanks 6. BeyoncÈ’s 2008 hit 7. Tarzan’s adoptive mom 8. Jiffy or instant 9. Lend a criminal hand 10. Succumbed to gravity 11. Zombie’s skin color 12. Bit attachment 15. Unequivocally detestable 20. Manufacturing site 22. Online pop-ups 24. Reckoned 25. *Major fight winner 26. Flying nuisance 27. True inner self 29. Evergreen trees 31. Livens up 32. Give a boot 33. Happen again 34. *Deflategate star 36. Three-____ sloth 38. In the middle of

42. Best of its kind 45. One of B-vitamins 49. Computer-generated imagery 51. What the bell did?

54. English homework 56. Plural of obelus

57.

58.

59.

60.

61.

Kind of drumbeat Respiratory rattling Black tropical cuckoo Hindu serpent deity *They went down with the El Faro 62. Discharge

63. Tracks after rain 64. *Stephen Curry was a master at hitting this shot 67. Easter Rising product

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CARPETING Thurlow’s Carpet & Home Center Sales & Service Meadow Rd. (Sandy Creek Junction) Bridgton 647-5562, 800-310-5563 www.thurlowscarpet.com

DOCKS Great Northern Docks, Inc. Sales & Service Route 302, Naples 693-3770 1-800-423-4042 www.greatnortherndocks.com

Servicemaster Prof. Carpet Cleaning – Home/Office ELECTRICIANS Fire/Smoke Damage Restoration 1-800-244-7630 207-539-4452 Bosworth Electric Inc. Quality electrical contractor TLC Home Maintenance Co. Commercial/Industrial/Residential Professional Cleaning and Generators/Todd Bosworth/207-838-6755 Property Management bosworthelectricinc@hotmail.com Housekeeping and much more 583-4314 D. M. Electric Inc. & Sons

Jones Appliance Service/Repair LLC COMPUTERS Quality service you deserve All major brands Grammy Geek jonesappliances@aol.com 647-4432 Tech support for seniors (jr’s too) 1-1 support at your home ATTORNEYS Malware & virus removal/PC repair Free pick-up & delivery 207-310-0289 Shelley P. Carter, Attorney Law Office of Shelley P. Carter, PA Ms. C’s Computer Repair 110 Portland St., Fryeburg, ME 04037 Virus and spyware removal 935-1950 www.spcarterlaw.com PC repairs 207-228-5279 27 Zion Hill Road, Bridgton Michael G. Friedman, Esq., PA Naples Computer Services 132 Main St. PC repair/upgrades – on-site service P.O. Box 10, Bridgton, ME 04009 Virus and spy-ware removal 647-8360 Home and business networking Hastings Malia, PA Video security systems 376 Main Street – PO Box 290 71 Harrison Rd., Naples 207-693-3746 Fryeburg, ME 04037 935-2061 www.hastings-law.com CONTRACTORS Robert M. Neault & Associates Attorneys & Counselors at Law Corner of Rte. 302 & Songo School Rd. P.O. Box 1575, Naples 693-3030

DENTAL SERVICES Mountain View Dentistry Dr. Leslie A. Elston Cosmetic/restorative & Family Dentistry 207-647-3628 MountainViewDentistryMaine.com

Jeff Hadley Builder Remodeling, Additions Tile work, Wood flooring Kitchens, Drywall, Painting 30 yrs experience 583-4460 jhadley44@gmail.com Quality Custom Carpentry From start to finish and from old to new Jeff Juneau Naples 207-655-5903

DANCE INSTRUCTION The Ballroom Dance - Exercise - Yoga - Aikido Main St., Harrison, Maine 207-583-6964

DENTAL SERVICES Bridgton Dental Associates Dr. Paul Cloutier Complete dental care 138 Harrison Rd, Bridgton www.bridgtondental.com 207-647-8052

Dennis McIver, Electrical Contractor Residential/Commercial/Industrial Licensed in Maine & New Hampshire Bridgton 207-647-5012 J.P. Gallinari Electric Co. Residential - Commercial - Industrial Aerial - Auger - Lifting Service Bridgton 647-9435 McIver Electric “Your on time every time electricians” 221 Portland Rd, Bridgton 647-3664 www.mciverelectric.net R.W. Merrill Electrical Contractor 24 hour Emergency Service Residential & Commercial Harrison 583-2986 Fax 583-4882 David K. Moynihan Master Electrician Licensed ME & NH Bridgton 647-8016

EXCAVATION JDN Enterprises Septic systems, Water lines Site work, Drainage 207-647-8146 Snow’s Excavation Complete site work Foundations-Septic-Lots cleared 207-647-2697

EXERCISE/FITNESS Dee’s BodyCraft Personal Training, Aerobics, Pilates Certified – Experienced Bridgton 647-9599

FLOORING

DENTAL SERVICES

Abrams Hardwood Floors Sanding/Refinishing/Installation Sales & Service Tile – LVT – Hardwood 5 Otter Pond Rd, Bridgton 803-8221

Bridgton Dental Hygiene Care, PA Complete comprehensive oral hygiene care Infants – Seniors Most dental insurances, MaineCare 647-4125 bdhc@myfairpoint.net

Bolsters Decorating Center Carpet – vinyl – ceramic Always free decorating consulting bolsters@megalink.net 9 Market Sq., So. Paris 207-743-9202

TF13

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FLOORING J & M Wood Floors Installation/Sanding/Refinishing Fully insured – Free estimates 207-337-5623

FOUNDATIONS Henry’s Concrete Construction Foundations, Slabs, Floors Harrison Tel. 583-4896 J. B. Concrete Bill O’Brien Poured Foundations 207-647-5940

GARAGE DOORS Naples Garage Door Co. Installation & repair services Free estimates Naples 207-693-3480

647-5711 MOVING Bridgton Moving Residential & light commercial bridgtonmoving@verizon.net Glynn Ross 240 N. High St. – 647-8255 671-2556 (cell)

MUSIC LESSONS Up Scale Music Studio Piano Lessons – All Levels Composition-Theory-Transcription Evan 647-9599

OIL DEALERS Dead River Co. Range & Fuel Oil Oil Burner Service Tel. 647-2882, Bridgton

SELF STORAGE JB Self Storage Rt. 5 Lovell, Maine Monthly/yearly secure storage 207-925-3045

SEPTIC TANK PUMPING Dyer Septic Septic systems installed & repaired Site work-emergency service-ecofriendly 1-877-250-4546 207-583-4546

SNOWPLOWING Webber Snowplowing Service Residential – Second Home – Camp Private road – Parking lots – Insured Free estimates – Craig, 207-831-8354

SOCIAL SECURITY

Disability Associates, Inc. Serving the greater NE area PAINTING CONTRACTORS 35 years experience 877-478-8642 Roberts Overhead Doors Jerry’s Painting Service Commercial/residential – free estimates Quality Painting – Interior/Exterior SURVEYORS Now offering Master Card & Visa Fully Insured – Free Estimates 207-595-2311 F. Jonathan Bliss, P.L.S. 207-527-2552 Bliss & Associates HEATING PLUMBING & HEATING Surveying, Land Planning 693 Main St, Lovell 207-925-1468 Bass Heating Collins Plumbing & Heating Inc. blissinc@fairpoint.net Oil Burner Service Specializing in repair service in Maine Survey Consultants, Inc. Sales and Installations The Lake Region 647-4436 Land info services – Surveys Waterford (207) 595-8829 Boundary/Topographic/Flood elevation Ken Karpowich Plumbing Thurlow’s Carpet & Home Center PO Box 485, Harrison, Maine Repairs/Installation/Remodeling Monitor Heaters Sales & Service Off: 583-6159 Master Plumber in ME & NH Meadow Rd. (Sandy Creek Junction) Over 20 years experience 207-925-1423 D. A. Maxfield Jr. PLS Bridgton 647-5562, 800-310-5563 Over 10,000 surveys on file www.thurlowscarpet.com PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

HOME INSPECTION ACW Inspection Services Certified Home Inspector 20 years in Real Estate Fryeburg 207-256-2574

INSULATION Western Me. Insulation Inc Batts, blown or foamed Over 30 yrs experience Free estimates – fully insured 7 days a week – 693-3585

INSURANCE Ace Insurance Agency Inc. Home and Auto 43 East Main Street Denmark 1-800-452-0745 Chalmers Ins. Agency 100 Main St., Bridgton Tel. 647-3311 Oberg Insurance Auto, Home, Business, Life 132 Main St., Bridgton Tel. 647-5551, 888-400-9858

Clement Bros. Lawn and Landscape Organic lawn & garden maintenance Shoreline restoration Creative stonework, property watch Snowplowing & sanding 207-693-6646 www.clementbros.com

REAL ESTATE Chalmers Real Estate 100 Main St., Bridgton Tel. 647-3311 Lakes Region Properties “At the Lights in Naples” Waterfront, Residential Commercial & Land 207-693-7000 Oberg Agency Residential, Business, Lake Shore Property 132 Main St., Bridgton Tel. 647-5551, 888-400-9858

ROOFING

JDN Enterprises Shingles – Roofs replaced New construction – Repairs 207-647-8146 Southern Maine Retirement Services Bridgton Medicare Supplements & Prescription Plans RUBBISH SERVICE Life and Senior Dental Insurance 150 Main St., Bridgton 1-866-886-4340 ABC Rubbish Weekly Pick-up KENNELS Container Service Tel. 743-5417 Bridgton Veterinary Kennels Boarding AM Enterprises Inc. Route 117, Bridgton, Me. Trash & snow removal Tel. 647-8804 Serving Harrison & Bridgton ameinc@outlook.com 207-749-2850 LAWN CARE North Country Property Services Lawn Care Property Management www.ncpsllc.com 207-713-0675

MASONRY D & D Masonry Chimneys/fireplaces/walks/etc.

Fully insured Free estimates Darryl & Doug Hunt 693-5060

The Dump Guy Insured – Junk removal Basement and attic cleanouts 207-450-5858 www.thedumpguy.com

SELF STORAGE Bridgton Storage 409 Portland Rd 28 units & 4000’ open barn Bridgton 647-3206

TAXIDERMIST

Trapper’s Taxidermy Jason Pingree 112 Bush Row Rd Denmark 207-452-2091

TREE SERVICE Q-Team & Cook’s Tree Service Removal-pruning-cabling-chipping Stump grinding-bucket work-bobcat Crane-licensed & fully insured Q Team 693-3831 or Cook’s 647-4051 Toll free 207-693-3831 www.Q-Team.com Rice Tree Service – Sheldon Rice Complete tree service – free estimates Removal-prune-chipping-stump grinding Licensed and insured Utility and Landscape Arborist Waterford ME – 583-2474 Top Notch Tree Service, LLC All aspects of tree care & removal Fully-licensed and insured Excellent references 207-357-WOOD (9663)

VETERINARY Bridgton Veterinary Hospital Small Animal Medicine & Surgery Rt. 117, Bridgton, ME 647-8804 Fryeburg Veterinary Hospital Small Animal Medicine & Surgery Route 302, Fryeburg 207-935-2244 Norway Veterinary Hospital Naples Clinic Corner Rte. 302 & Lambs Mill Rd.

By Appointment 693-3135 Rozzie May Animal Alliance Low cost spay/neuter Dogs Conway clinic Cats mobile pickup NH & ME Oxf. Cty residents may qualify for funds www.rozziemay.org 603-447-1373

WINDOW TREATMENTS Bolsters Decorating Center Custom window treatments Always free decorating consulting bolsters@megalink.net 9 Market Sq., So. Paris 207-743-9202

Regional sports

December 3, 2015, The Bridgton News, Page 7C

Laker guide (Continued from Page 4C)

HOW TIME TRULY FLIES — Nicole is pictured on the left with longtime Fryeburg Academy varsity field hockey coach Dede Frost during a summer camp. On the right, coach and senior captain share Nicole’s 40th goal accomplishment.

Nicole: Play for love of game (Continued from Page 5C)

I learned the importance of hard work and putting extra effort in during the off-season.

BN. Any particular goals you hoped to achieve?

Nicole: I set several goals before my senior year. I hoped to make All State and First Team All Conference (which she did accomplish). My biggest accomplishment was scoring my 40th career goal, and without realizing it, setting the new career record for FA. BN. What have you enjoyed the most?

Nicole: I love everything about the game. The best feeling in the world is on game day, listening to music with your teammates and getting hyped. Intensity and competitiveness is the best part about being an athlete.

BN. What will you miss the most?

Nicole: I’ll miss my team. I grew up playing with the majority of those girls. And I’ve played under Coach Frost for 13 years now. We’re a family and I don’t know what I’m

going to do without them next year.

BN. What will be your favorite memories?

Nicole: My favorite memories are the casual ones made by accident. Team sleepovers, bus rides, indoor leagues, ringing the bell after a win, all the little things that made my team so close.

BN. What does this honor (WMC player of the year) mean to you?

Nicole: I never could’ve imagined getting this award, but I could not be more honored. I played with and against some incredible individuals in the conference. I owe everything to my parents (Rachel and Bryce Thurston of Lovell) and Coach Frost. I also couldn’t have done it without Danielle Bishop, my club coach and trainer, who made a huge impact on my high school career.

BN. Finally, what are your future plans?

Nicole: I’ve already verbally committed to play at Endicott College in the fall, where I will study exercise science. I aspire to become a collegiate coach some day.

Getting to the top the hard way

(Continued from Page 8C)

carabiners, belay devices, and climbing techniques. Because climbing high on a wall can be dangerous, they explained the Climb Smart! rules that are followed at Salt Pump. Pairing the Denmark Mountain Hikers up, Schaefer and Roelke had them practice climbing and belaying each other on some of the different climbing routes on the walls. There are a variety of routes from beginner routes to more difficult routes, simulated “bouldering” experiences and opportunities to lead climb.

It was a delight to see the Denmark Mountain Hikers take to the climbing walls.

Some climbed like they had done it all their lives, hardly pausing from each colorful hand- and foothold on the walls all the way to the top!

Others approached the climbing wall with trepidation, not sure whether they had the courage or the strength to climb.

One of the hikers climbed with eyes riveted on the next hand and foot hold, refusing to look down. Another made it well up the wall before tired leg muscles gave out ending the climb.

Yet another one of the group exalted to make it to the very

they might elect to climb up the cliff face to meet us!

Salt Pump Climbing Co. in Cumberland County, Scarborough, Maine, 36 Haigis Parkway Tel: 219-8145 For more information visit their website at www.saltpumpclimbing.com Directions to Salt Pump — From Route 95: take Exit 42 and continue straight onto Haigis Parkway. Salt Pump is about a half mile down Haigis Parkway on the right (south) side of the road.

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EOWO 1

Denmark Mountain Hiker Bob Laliberte belaying a fellow climber.

(Photo by Allen Crabtree)

top for the first time, with a big smile and whoop! She was able to do it twice more before falling on the last attempt. Even then, safely belayed by her partner on the ground, it was an easy controlled descent back down. The pairs took turns as either the climber or the belayer till everyone had chances to do both.

Some of the hikers had climbed with John before, and showed their advanced prowess to everyone’s delight.

Henry Banks V had climbed Wyoming’s Grand Tetons with Patrick this summer, and tackled difficult overhangs and led a climb up a difficult course.

Schaefer and Roelke were pleased with their pupils, and extended a welcome for any and all to come back to Salt Pump anytime. Since that first day, several of the Denmark Mountain Hikers have returned to practice their climbing skills again.

I would not be at all surprised to have some of them joining John on a rock climb to some of our local cliffs. Who knows, perhaps on another hike to the top of Mount Willard

Coach Snow said. “We have a wide range of abilities on the team and each athlete, in their own way, will improve as the season goes on.”

As far as filling events better in areas where the Lakers are lacking — the girls could use a few more distance runners and athletes in the senior division. The boys’ team has doubled in size, however, the Lakers could use a few more athletes in most events and in each division.

Three keys to a successful season (both teams): 1.

Willingness of team members to take on a new or additional event to help the team reach season and Western Maine Conference goals; 2. Coaches make practices and workouts challenging, fun and often individualized throughout the season; 3. Great effort and positive attitude from each athlete and coach throughout the season.

Players to watch (girls): Sam DeSouza — won the JR division shot put at WMCs and finished 8th at the State Meet.

How much will she improve this year?

Audrey Blais — finished 2nd in the 800m at WMCs and narrowly missed the school record. How much will she improve this year?

Danica Chadwick — Had great improvements in the hurdles, long jump and triple jump during outdoor track & field. Will this translate to being a more consistent scorer this indoor season?

Hannah Chadwick — Competed at the outdoor State Meet in the high jump and 400m last year. Focusing on all the jumps this indoor season. Which jump will be her best?

Keyana Prescott — Will she match the pole vault school record without being able to practice the event?

Catherine Christiansen — Placed 3rd in the JR division 55m at WMCs last year. Will she have a successful year in the SR division this year?

Meghan Boos — Should place often in the hurdles. May also contribute in the jumps.

Players to watch (boys): Dakota Stover — outdoor state qualifier in jumping events competing indoors for the first time.

Theo Snow — placed at WMCs in the JR hurdles; now in the SR hurdles.

Nick Scarlett — won the triple jump at meet #1 last year; team leader.

Thomas Noble — set the most personal records on last year’s team.

What lessons do you hope the athletes learned a year ago that will help them this year (both teams)? “Strength training and core work go a long way toward being successful in most events. Do the best you can and take pride in your results and accomplishments,” Coach Snow said. “Also, athletes can be intense, competitive and be good sports all at the same time. The girls receiving the Good Sportsmanship Award last year should help them realize that.”

What do you like about this group (both teams): Coach Snow — “There is a wide range of abilities, but everyone tries their best. They listen intently and take advice well. They enjoy being around each other. They help and support each other.”

What story line will you be most interested in watching develop (both teams)? “I am always most interested in seeing how the pieces fit. What sacrifices will some athletes make to improve the team? What events will be the best opportunity for points? Who should we get to do event A or B or C? How surprised will other coaches be at our success this year?” Coach Snow said.

The Schedule Friday, Dec. 18, 6:30 at USM Field House, Gorham Saturday, Dec. 26, at USM Relays, noon Friday, Jan. 8, at USM Field House, Gorham, 6:30 Friday, Jan. 15, at USM Field House, Gorham, 3:30 Friday, Jan. 22, at USM Field House, Gorham, 7:30 Friday, Jan. 29, at USM Field House, Gorham, 4:30 Feb. 5, League championships, at USM Field House, Gorham, 4:00 Feb. 13, State Meet, Bates College, Lewiston, noon Feb. 28, New England Championships

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Page 8C, The Bridgton News, December 3, 2015

Regional sports

Senior Rambles Hiking Trips & Tips

by Allen Crabtree

Getting to top the hard way On one of our hikes to Mount Willard in Crawford Notch we were enjoying our lunch and the views from the summit ledges when a hand suddenly appeared over the top of the cliff. The hand was followed by a climbing helmet and then a smiling rock climber who was as happy to be at the top of the mountain as we were. The difference was, however, that he had just climbed up the hard way while we had taken the easy trail.

Since then, on our weekly hikes we occasionally meet rock climbers coming or going on the trails, wrapped with coils of climbing rope and gear,

heading for one cliff face or another. I’ve done enough rock climbing on my own (albeit many years ago) to know that there is only a thin line separating the dedicated rock climber from the mountain hiker.

We both exalt in the outdoor experience and challenge, but measure the challenges of hiking vs. climbing and approach them in different ways.

The Denmark Mountain Hikers have tackled more than 100 different mountains in our weekly hikes since January 2010. Our hikes are of varying difficulty and range from easy strolls to strenuous workouts. Some of our difficult

Vince Schaefer, Salt Pump Program Director, instructs the Denmark Mountain Hikers on rock climbing gear and techniques.

(Photo by Allen Crabtree)

climbs have daunting ledges and boulders that require us to use our hands as well as our feet and legs to scramble up or down, but these are short of what is considered technical rock climbing. Technical rock climbing requires training and experience to use the ropes, tools and techniques needed to tackle vertical rock faces.

Rock Climbing The sport of rock climbing is generally traced back to the Lakes District of England when Walter Parry Haskett Smith made the first solo ascent of Napes Needle on Great Gable Mountain in 1886.

Since then, rock climbing has grown in popularity around the mountainous areas of the world, and has a devoted following here in the Western Mountains of Maine and the White Mountains with hundreds of routes that have been explored on local cliffs and slabs.

British climber George Mallory explained why so many are drawn to rock climbing: “What we get from this adventure is just sheer joy.”

The satisfaction in overcoming both the daunting physical difficulties and the internal fears that you may have in making a climb is hard to explain, but is a strong impetus for the passion that rock climbers bring to their sport.

Rock climbing is a physically and mentally demanding sport that tests a climber’s strength, endurance, agility and balance along with mental control. Pat Ament, a contemporary American rock climber from Colorado, has this to say about the sport: “When you ride your bike, you’re working your legs, but your mind is on a treadmill. When you play chess, your mind is clicking along, but your body is stagnating. Climbing brings it together in a beautiful, magical way. The adrenaline is flowing, and it’s flowing all the time.”

It is a giant step, howevJohn Patrick rock climbing in the Whites. er, from hiking on a trail to

(Photo by Gabriel Flanders) charting your own route up a

cliff. To help bridge the gap, indoor climbing gyms allow wanna-be rock climbers to learn about gear and practice climbing techniques. Routes are laid out in varying degrees of difficulty and climbers can progress from shorter, easier routes to more difficult ones as their skills grow. Climbers do so with a partner, attached by a harness they wear to a climbing rope; the rope runs through a climbing protection device on the climbing wall to a second person on the ground (the “belayer”) who wears a harness and belay device. As the climber goes higher the “belayer” takes up slack in the rope. In the case of a fall, the belayer arrests the climber’s fall and by paying out the rope, slowly and safely lowers the climber back down to the ground.

Salt Pump Climbing Co Many of our group were curious about rock climbing and were eager to give it a try. John Patrick, the Denmark Mountain Hikers’ leader and an avid rock climber himself, suggested: “If anyone is interested,” John said, “we could go to the new Salt Pump Climbing Co in Scarborough and try some indoor rock climbing.”

Sixteen of our group said “yes” and John made arrangements with Taki Miyamoto, Salt Pump’s general manager and partner, to bring them there for a morning of supervised instruction with Salt Pump’s staff.

Salt Pump Climbing Co is a new indoor climbing facility. Construction began in November 2014 after two years of planning, and Salt Pump celebrated their grand opening on Sept. 19, 2015.

Miyamoto worked with the designers and contractors to create Salt Pump as a place that reflects and celebrates

Denmark Mountain Hiker Pam Ward climbing.

(Photo by John Patrick) the increasing diversity of the climbing world and offers a unique indoor climbing experience for the southern Maine area. Salt Pump has 45-feet high walls festooned with hundreds of foot- and handholds in a variety of different routes and difficulty. The facility is designed to make its indoor climbing experience as similar to the outdoor climbing experience as possible, with a natural feel and flow.

Miyamoto feels that Salt Pump is more than a climbing gym, and believes that climb-

ing can enrich lives. He is convinced that the culture of climbing can make the world a better place. He and the staff of Salt Pump have worked hard to create an atmosphere where you can be yourself, get in shape, rejuvenate, meet up with old friends and make new ones.

The Hikers Try Climbing Salt Pump staff Vince Schaefer and Kate Roelke met the DMH group and instructed them in the intricacies of climbing harnesses, knots, TO THE TOP, Page 7C

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Opinion & Comment

December 3, 2015, The Bridgton News, Page 1D

Small World

by Henry Precht BN Columnist

Who’s to blame?

As I write, people in Colorado Springs are probably still trying to understand the shootings that took place on the day after Thanksgiving. The press reports that a 57-year-old man used an AK-47 assault rifle to kill three people, including one police officer, and wounded nine others in an attack on a Planned Parenthood center. This criminal firefight, which lasted over five hours, raises big questions in my mind.

It shouldn’t. There’s nothing new about a shoot-up in this country whether it be in a school, a movie theater, or now a clinic. Such outbursts also occur in other countries — one thinks of the Norwegian who used explosives and guns to slay dozens of his countrymen. But we — the home of the brave — have brought down a far larger total of unarmed Americans in repeated acts of domestic terrorism.

Why do we tolerate it? Our attitude is more than toleration, however: We facilitate these killings with ludicrously weak “gun control” laws. Why should any citizen without official law and order duties be allowed to own an AK-47 or similar weapons designed primarily for military combat?

Sport, the gun “enthusiasts” might answer. But is it not equally satisfying to the urge to pull a trigger and hit a target if the weapon is stored under lock and key in a shooting range and checked out for a target-shooting session?

It’s one thing — dangerous but understandable perhaps — to keep rifles at home in a community where hunting is a traditional sport. It is quite another matter when ownership of weapons is permitted without clear and reasonable justification. Without registration and without safety devices, firearms are given less attention than motor vehicles. Those who — out of political cowardice, greed or ignorance — block sensible measures to reduce gun violence in our cities make themselves, in part, responsible for those crimes.

And what of the apparent target of the shooter’s rage — a Planned Parenthood center where abortions are sometimes performed and where other services for women’s health are seen to? Abhorrent to many, the right to have an abortion is constitutional in the judgment of the Supreme Court. And clinics are protected by federal law.

It has always seemed to me primarily a personal decision whether on not to have an abortion. A child who is not wanted by the mother or whom the mother cannot safely bear is a child who should not, in my opinion, be brought into the world. Unless, of course, those who would prevent abortion are prepared and willing to see to the rearing of that unwanted child into adulthood. Further, those who block an abortion also assume responsibility, including prison, should a woman come to grief because a needed abortion was denied.

Responsibility — that’s what it comes down to. We don’t live, thank goodness, in an autocratic society where decisions on important questions are answered for us. In our democBLAME, Page 5D

Letters Best way forward

To The Editor: I’m voting “Yes” on Dec. 8 to support expanding our already excellent School Administrative District 61.

Spending a hair over nine million dollars is a great way to attract young parents to relocate within the district.

The project’s architect has given enormous creative

thought to efficiencies, aesthetics and enhancements to the expansion of Crooked River School. Obviously, classrooms have been added, but both the library and kitchen facilities will be larger.

But the major selling point for me is the new auditorium, which may be expanded to hold the entire school — the exact number of seats will be determined by unspent funds.

There is an excellent presentation, hosted by Rosie Schacht, available to all on Lake Region TV. There are several other resources on www.lakeregionschools.org/ After watching

FOOD DRIVE — Peter Rabbit Preschool filled the helping “Hands” bag with lots of delicious donations for the Community Resource Council in Naples! Happy Thanksgiving!

Stopping the flow of heroin

By John E. Morris Maine Commissioner of Public Safety “How was that stuff I sold you?” read the text message from a heroin dealer to an addict.

“Good, do you have some more?” was the reply.

A meeting was arranged and the drug dealer was arrested.

The “buyer” was not an addict, but an agent of the Maine Drug Enforcement Agency. The cell phone belonged to a person who had just died from a heroin overdose. The dealer’s text message came in just as officers found the addict’s body.

This is what the front lines of the war on heroin looks like. Unfortunately, the good guys are outnumbered and the dealers are more organized than ever. That’s why Governor Paul R. LePage has asked the legislature to give him the funding to hire 10 more MDEA agents. The agency’s complement of 39 pales in comparison to its 1990s-level staff of 68 to curb the cocaine problem, but today’s heroin and opiate crisis is the worst Maine has ever seen.

We cannot combat this scourge with treatment alone. There has to be a comprehensive approach that includes enhanced law enforcement resources, as well as treatment and prevention efforts.

State spending on addiction treatment services has increased by nearly 50 percent since 2008, and total state and federal spending reached $76 million in 2014. Providers tell

us there is no wait for detox beds and a seven- to nine-day wait for outpatient treatment.

A new pain management program Maine’s Department of Health and Human Services has cut painkiller prescriptions to Medicaid recipients in half. Participation in the prescription-monitoring program is higher than ever, preventing the practice of “doctor-shopping” for pills.

This is critically important because 75% of heroin users start with prescription painJohn E. Morris killers.

DHHS is also implementing a pilot project for the use of Vivitrol — an alternative to methadone and Suboxone that’s designed to beat addiction.

However, the state spends twice as much money just on transportation for addicts to and from methadone clinics than it does on the entire MDEA. At a mere $3 million, our effort to get drug dealers off the streets is severely underfunded.

HEROIN, Page 5D

Superintendent Al Smith, School Board Chairman Janice Barter and the architect explain the situation — along with the assets the enhanced building brings to our community — I must conclude that a “Yes” vote on Dec. 8 is the best way forward for the district.

George Bradt Bridgton

to bring attention to them like that isn’t right. I felt so bad for this woman. She was alone, was elderly and was not stable on her feet.

Shame on you Hannaford.

Get with the program!

Helen Ramsdell Denmark

witnessed a woman in front of me going through the register with her groceries in one of the electric carts.

The cashier told the woman that she could not drive out of the store. The woman said she could not walk out, yet the Hannaford staff continued to tell her it was a new policy. The woman asked for a manager and finally they let her drive the cart out and followed her to help, but they told her they couldn’t let anyone else drive the cart outdoors anymore.

To The Editor: This is crazy. We have Last night while shopping at Hannaford in Bridgton, I many disabled people and

Help the disabled

Loss to the community

To The Editor: Last week, this community lost a wonderful volunteer. Marie Darna suddenly passed away. Marie was presently volunteering in the hospital café and was a committed member of the Hospital Guild. She had also volunteered at the Community Center and worked at various jobs here in Bridgton. It was a personal loss for me as I had the pleasure of working with this caring woman for several years and greatly enjoyed her good company. She was

presently care-taking her sister, who is now in assisted care. My heart goes out to Marie’s husband and sister at this tough time. I always admired her attention and care to all our customers and her compassion. She will be sorely missed.

Peter Bollen Bridgton

Is bigger better?

To The Editoor: Today decides tomorrow.

Why spend 9.6 megabucks on schools? The flier sent out

by SAD 61 explains, “Songo Locks Elementary School is overcrowded.”

SAD 61 says building a bigger Crooked River School will attract young families to the Lake Region. Young families with even more kids?

Hal Bartke Bridgton LETTERS, Page 3D

Medicare nugget

DRESSING THE TREE UP FOR THE HOLIDAYS ­— Brendan Bedell, an Otisfield firefighter, volunteered to decorate the Christmas tree at the Otisfield Town Office on Saturday, Nov. 29 with volunteer help from Dan Fogg and Robert Fogg, plus the use of a bucket truck donated by Q-Team Tree Service of Naples.

By Stan Cohen Medicare Volunteer Counselor Researchers at Brown University found that 17% of Medicare Advantage patients who entered nursing homes for long-term care chose to switch to traditional Medicare the following year. Only 3% of similar patients in traditional Medicare made the decision to go to a private Medicare Advantage plan.

The story is the same for patients who required short-term nursing care or home health care. A larger number switched out of Medicare Advantage plans than chose to move into them from traditional Medicare. The findings were published in the October issue of Health Affairs.

“The results suggest that the private Medicare Advantage health plans are managing to get rid of patients once their care becomes too costly,” says economist Momotazur Rahman, the study’s lead author.

The private plans don’t kick people out, but they can provide reasons to leave, Rahman said. Those measures include imposing steep cost sharing as patients need more expensive care, which is common for nursing or home care patients.

It is true that Medicare Advantage plans are a good fit for some beneficiaries because of their low upfront costs, but they involve many more elements of “cost sharing” compared to traditional Medicare (with Medicare supplement coverage), and consequently they are not cost effective for everyone.

Medicare volunteer counselors are available for free, one-on-one consultations. Call the Bridgton Community Center at 647-3116 to arrange for an appointment.

Opinions

Obituaries

Page 2D, The Bridgton News, December 3, 2015

Tribute to Betsy

V.I.P. FUNDRAISER — George Vooris, center, organizer of this summer’s Naples Causeway 5K, and his wife Janis posed with none other than actor Patrick Dempsey during a VIP dinner in Lewiston Oct. 18 hosted by the Patrick Dempsey Center for Cancer, Hope & Healing. The road race had a very successful first year, with 257 runners registered and a total of $8,500 raised. From that, Vooris donated $6,070 to the Dempsey Center, $1,000 to the Naples Food Pantry, $200 to the Naples Fire Department and $300 to the volunteers from the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Department that provided traffic control for the race. Next year’s Naples 5K will be held Aug. 28, and Vooris is already busy fundraising for the event. A Christmas Bake Sale to benefit the race will be held this Saturday, Dec. 5, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Naples Grange.

(Photo courtesy Dempsey Center)

Climate change causes terrorism?

I’m not the smartest guy in the world and I can still be fooled once in a while, but I’ve learned a few things. My intuitive BS alarm generally works pretty well. For example, as soon as I heard about it I knew Sigmund Freud’s contention that we males are born with a sexual attraction for their mothers was preposterous. Lately though, that alarm is going off so often I feel like I’m constantly guarding my sanity.

A few months ago, I learned that Bernie Sanders neglected his studies at the University of Chicago because he was obsessed with Sigmund Freud, Karl Marx, and Wilhelm Reich. “Wilhelm who?” you may ask. Well, driving around in remote Rangeley, Maine four years ago I came upon the Wilhelm Reich Museum. A protege of Freud, Reich had been dead for more than a half century, but his research there into human orgasm continues. Young people with dreadlocks, metal in their faces, and a wide-eyed spaciness greeted me and put me on my guard, but I went inside anyway as one would to see a freak show at the fair.

On display were some of Reich’s devices, which included what looked like an old telephone booth but actually was an “orgone energy accumulator” which the UK Guardian described as “an almost magical device that could improve its users’ ‘orgastic potency.’” The Guardian article continued

Front Row Seat

by Tom McLaughlin BN Columnist

saying: “The accumulator was used by such countercultural figureheads as Norman Mailer, JD Salinger, Saul Bellow, Paul Goodman, Allen Ginsberg, Jack Kerouac, Dwight Macdonald and William S Burroughs.” Reich also recommended that “patients” should be massaged while naked to “loosen their body armour.”

Uh-huh. Many of the Bernie people I see around Maine and New Hampshire remind me of the wide-eyed docents I met at the museum in Rangeley. Senator Sanders continued his obsession with Reich after moving to nearby Vermont, writing articles on him in the Vermont Freeman, an alternative newspaper. Mother Jones reported that: “His early writings reflect a political worldview rooted in the fad psychology and anticapitalist rhetoric of the era and infused with a libertarianesque critique of state power. Sanders feared that the erosion of individual freedom — via compulsory education, sexual repression, and, yes, fluoridated water — began at birth. And, he postulated, authoritarianism might even cause cancer.”

Authoritarianism causes cancer, huh Bernie? Is it time for Sanders to retire to his orgasmatron? Some of us think so, whether it be a festive but instead he’s a leading Democrat candidate for president centerpiece, a beautiful of the United States. How many of his supporters know about blooming plant, or a his obsession with Reich? I’m afraid to ask, but now Bernie bountiful basket filled is claiming that “climate change” causes terrorism. I kid you not. with nature’s finest The biggest concentration of world leaders ever is meeting fruits, chocolates and in Paris to “save the world” from climate change. Remember gourmet goodies. Let us how crazy worried they were about Y2K? They’re embarhandle the details for you! rassed to even bring it up now, right? They pretend all that paranoia never happened and they evidently didn’t learn anything from it either because they’re right back at it big time with President Obama playing the role of Chicken-LittleFor your satisfaction and in-Chief. He’s about to cripple America’s already anemic best value, our shop is economy by jacking up energy costs for all of us “before it’s your best bet. too late” because climate change is a much bigger threat than terrorism or anything else facing human beings on earth. Got Please order early. that?

However, “world-renowned climatologist” James Hansen claims Obama is not going far enough and warns that climate change can cause “flying boulders” too. It caused storms so powerful that they whipped boulders weighing thousands of tons up onto cliffs in the Bahamas. With that claim, even the liberal Washington Post worries that: “some critics wonder whether the man who helped spawn the whole debate about the dangers of climate change has finally gone too far.”

What? Only some critics wonder that? Wilhelm Reich 3T49 also devised a “cloudbuster” machine that could be put into reverse and draw in orgone energy from the atmosphere, which could then be infused into his orgasmatron box.

Something similar to the cloud-buster idea is back on the table. According to ood Funeral Home would like to take this opportunity to Bloomberg, today’s climate thank the families of Fryeburg and surrounding towns who geniuses are thinking about: “replicating the planet-coolhave entrusted us with their loved ones in their time of need. ing effect of a volcanic eruption… The idea is to mimic Since there is no one else, in the Wood family, to carry on with the [Mount] Pinatubo by using a fleet of modified business business, we would like to announce that we have sold the funeral jets to inject fine droplets of home to Chandler Funeral Homes of South Paris. The business sulfuric acid into the stratoname, phone number and location will remain the same. sphere, where they would combine with water vapor to form fine sulfate particles that We trust that Chandler Funeral Home will provide the same care, reflect sunlight away from consideration and service that has been established with the Wood the earth.”

Uh-huh. family.

Like I said, I’ve learned a few things over the last Once again, we would like to thank all of you for allowing us to 64 years. I know Rudyard Kipling was on to something have served you over the past 60 years. when he claimed you’re doing well, “If you can keep your Sincerely, head when all about your are losing theirs and blaming it Donald and Cathy Wood on you…”

Tom McLaughlin of Lovell is a retired middle school U.S. History teacher.

It’s time to send a “Little Merry” to family and friends, near and far…

W

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Editor’s note: Longtime Bridgton News reporter and Naples resident Betsy Moriarty passed away on Nov. 7 at the age of 91. Family and friends gathered for a celebration of Betsy’s life this past Saturday at Hall Funeral Home in Casco.

One of Betsy’s passion was AFS — bringing exchange students from across the globe to Lake Region High School. One of Betsy’s “AFS daughters” was Sharyn Wilson, who attended LRHS from 1975-76. She resides in Tasmania, Australia and sent the following text to be read at Betsy’s memorial service: Until recently, a Google search of the name, Betsy Moriarty, brought up many listings. Narrow the search to Betsy Moriarty, Maine and the herd thins, largely to references to a spiritual educator and healer, resident in Hancock County.

One mention of OUR Betsy comes to light in an article by Mike Corrigan about the Narrow Gauge rail and in particular “The Dinky,” which first brought Betsy and her mother to Naples in the 1930s en route to Camp Accomac on Peabody Pond. But other than that, her footprint in the digital world seems to belie her influence.

Now, a similar Google search highlights our Betsy’s obituary and details for us those many interests and achievements of which Betsy was modestly but rightly proud. It confirms what we know. Betsy was never one of the “herd,” she was a leader and through her life and journalism, was an educator in the broadest sense of the word. A woman of intelligent influence.

The connection of Betsy, in my mind, with anything at all “Dinky” creates quite a smile. You see in Australia, something “dinky” is small and easily overlooked. Perhaps, it is the same for you, and I have no doubt that you will agree that Betsy was in no way small or easy to ignore. She was a memorable, warm, interested, giving, larger than life character and in these few minutes I would like to share with you some of the more whimsical recollections of Betsy that my family and I have as well as a brief reflection on the influence she has had on my life. I hope that in these things you will be reminded of some of your own Betsy moments too.

Betsy is my AFS family, along with the Madura family from Naples. She was my host “Mom” for six months in 1976; she subsequently visited with my family in Tasmania; welcomed my parents to Naples for two weeks; and supported two return visits for me — the first during my student days and the second as a young married…all so very long ago. In all things AFS, Betsy opened her heart first and then her home.

For Betsy, there was an instant companionship and extended family and for the student a genuine love, care and concern.

Betsy offered the influence of a sharp intellect; a motivation to curiosity — a push to your think and a question to your attitudes with her velvet gloved iron hand of questions; a dedicated practical support and a wealth of opportunities and experiences.

In my short time living with Betsy, we connected with her friends and the places she loved. She shared her extended world — the Lordans in Boston in particular but also others in Newark, Florida, Denver and Wyoming. We took new adventures together to the Grand Tetons, Jackson Hole, Salt Lake City, Yellowstone, Seattle, Victoria and Vancouver. Betsy further whetted my understanding that through travel comes knowledge and through knowledge, understanding. We all share more similarities than we have differences.

Living with Betsy did have its challenges. I had rather a lot more media coverage than was merited! Always a camera! The dining room table was literally covered with newspaper clippings and ideas for stories than might eventually be written on a slow news day or when she got around to it. Betsy was a procrastinator and her mirth was genuine when someone bought her “A ROUND TU-IT.” Betsy was a copious note taker with surprisingly legible, memorable handwriting. Before her hand was forced to embrace e-mail, I used to really look forward to receiving her engaging snail mail — airmail envelopes stuffed with clippings from The Bridgton News and photos of her encounters with shared acquaintances at places like The Lobster Pound.

Naples and Bridgton were alive and well in Hobart, Tasmania as a result of those envelopes — something lost with the less frequent e-mails.

In my struggle against becoming “another fat student” (an oft used permutation of AFS), food with Betsy was a challenge because she loved to dine out…her particular delights being lobster and onion rings, neither of which I have ever come to enjoy. Her home favourites were deliciously tempting...in particular that wretched potted Stilton! Be still my growing hip line! However, in typical generosity Betsy exchanged chocolate cake for angel cake on the shopping list and also ensured a steady supply of pink grapefruit and strawberries, which fortunately she also loved.

When last week I asked my father and mother for their most prominent memories of Betsy, my mum, Shirley, highlighted Betsy’s inimitable laugh…a kind of back of mouth chuckle through partly closed jaw that created a slight and rolling hiss.

It was a fabulous laugh with which she was free. Her good humour loved life and mirth and she was never coy about being the catalyst for a chuckle. I have very fond memories of her posing herself by the sign “old Faithful Geyser” in Yellowstone Park …chuckling about it all the while.

My dad, John, responding to the same question with smile and tongue in cheek, exclaimed, “Look where you’re going Betsy!” We each have stories of our Betsy’s (forgive me, dear lady) appalling driving. It was often with both hands off the wheel or with one hand on the wheel and the other cuddling a poodle or sampling an onion ring. At times when there were two passengers, one in the back and one in the front, Betsy would swing her head right around to address the backseat passenger, taking her eyes entirely off the road...hence Dad’s recollection. For me, the evidence I submit is the 360-degree spin at the back of Lake Region High School on the day that the radio had announced that the school was closed due to ice and snow…Betsy had thought I was after a Doona day I think.

Either that or she was disinclined to believe…it was a trait to challenge others if their perception was different.

I vividly remember the charm and persuasion Betsy brought to bear on the New York cop who tried to inform Betsy that she was in the wrong with some minor parking indiscretion. His badge declared him to be Officer Moriarty…clearly an opening line winner for Betsy who launched into her most proud Irish Moriarty heritage, which I did not see again until our fabulous St. Patrick’s Day dinner where EVERYTHING…edible and otherwise…was robustly green. Betsy was such fun!

In summary then, there are many memories…these shared are just a few. If I look for themes, I can see two that are standouts. The first is generosity. Betsy was generous, perhaps to a fault. She gave incredible hospitality in opening her home in love to me and to my family, never sparing energy, time or expense to ensure that a good time was had by all. The second has had and continues to have a long-term impact. Betsy left for me and others a legacy of inquiry and curiosity. Her questioning nature coupled with the travel experiences she offered to me heavily influenced my own career path in education and journalism and my curiosity for the wider world.

On my lounge room wall is a painting which I commissioned Lucile Geiser to create for Betsy knowing that one day she would have to leave the house on Long Lake. When Betsy moved from Bridgton to Fryeburg (Health Care Center), Jay (her nephew) generously returned it to me and I love it for all of the memories that it evokes.

Pinned on my shirt on many days …and certainly today, is a beautiful pearl heart shaped brooch which was given to Betsy by her father on her sweet 16th birthday and which she passed to me on my 18th birthday…a tangible symbol of the fond and heartfelt memories recalled today and every day.

Thank you for the opportunity to share them with you all today. I am always with you in spirit and on this occasion wish very much that Tasmania was physically closer to Maine.

Despite the distance, there are ties that bind…not least of which is Betsy.

Obituaries

December 3, 2015, The Bridgton News, Page 3D

Elias T. Wezowicz

Daniel A. Peterson

GORHAM — Elias Thomas Wezowicz, 9, of Gorham passed away on Sunday, Nov. 22, 2015 at Maine Medical Center in the arms of his parents after a courageous battle with mitochondrial disease.

He was born Feb. 1, 2006, at Mercy Hospital in Portland, and was the firstborn child of Sarah and Joel Wezowicz.

Family was everything to Elias. He spoke of his love for them right until his passing. He is survived by his parents, younger sister Adia, grandparents Sherman and Penny Milliken of Topsham, and Thomas and Mary Ellen Wezowicz of Bridgton, and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins that he adored.

Elias loved to be with others. He was a fourth grader at Narragansett Elementary school, where he was able to spend time with his friends. He had a great sense of wonder, loved art, science and learning about the world. He was a compassionate young man with an amazing sense of humor. Elias took great joy in making others laugh.

At an early age, Elias enjoyed doing karate, playing soccer and tee-ball and going on hikes with his family. As his energy began declining, he found more joy in his garden, fishing and playing games with friends and family. Through all of his struggles, Elias never gave up and continually showed his selflessness, always wanting his sister to participate in all of the activities he could no longer physically do.

Elias was very spiritual and had wisdom well beyond his years.

He was a member of St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Parish in Westbrook. He loved to attend Mass when he was well enough and prayed every night for others suffering from illness. His faith gave him a great sense of peace.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Elias’ honor to the United Mitochondrial Disease Foundation’s Path to a Cure at www. umdfpathtoacure.org Visiting hours were held on Friday, Nov. 27 at Dolby and Dorr Funeral Chapel, 76 State Street in Gorham. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Saturday, Nov. 28 at St. Anthony of Padua, 268 Brown Street in Westbrook followed by a committal service at Calvary Cemetery in South Portland.

To leave a message of condolence, please visit: www.dolbyfuneralchapels.com

WATERFORD — Daniel A. Peterson, 21, of Waterford passed away on Friday, Nov. 20, 2015 as a result of an automobile accident.

He was born in Portland on Aug. 27, 1994, the son of Dennis and Elaina Hersom Peterson. He graduated from Oxford Hills Comprehensive High School and had been employed by Q-Team Tree Service.

Daniel loved hunting, fishing and spending time with his nephew. He was a licensed arborist and wanted to own his own tree service someday. He was working toward getting his Class B license. He was a hard worker. He always told his father that he was “The Professional.”

There are not enough words to describe his big smile and laugh — he had a kind, loving heart, and everyone who knew him loved him. Daniel loved spending time with his girlfriend, Whitney, and her family. He would do anything for anybody — he loved life.

He is survived by his parents; sisters, Samantha Eichel, who was a wonderful big sister, Sarah Rulman, Jessica Peterson, Heather Peterson and Kelly Peterson; his grandparents, Carol Wernig, Bruce Peterson and Georgina Hersom; aunts and uncles; nieces and nephews; his girlfriend, Whitney; and many friends.

He was predeceased by his grandfather, Clifford Hersom.

“Boy, I’m going to miss you so much and I’m so proud of you.

Love, Dad.” Online condolences may be shared with his family at www. chandlerfunerals.com Memorial services were held on Saturday, Nov. 28 at 11 a.m. at the Waterford Congregational Church in Waterford, followed by a Celebration of his Life at the Oriental Masonic Lodge, 166 Harrison Road in Bridgton.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to Christmas for Kids. Arrangements are under the care of Chandler Funeral Homes & Cremation Service, 45 Main Street, South Paris.

Rose Marie T. Blood RAYMOND — Rose Marie T. Blood, 86, passed away peacefully on Thursday, Nov. 19, 2015, at the Gosnell Memorial Hospice House.

She was born in Westbrook, on April 22, 1929, one of nine children to the late William and Blanche (LeBrecque) Hayer After graduating from Westbrook schools, Rose Marie went on to work for 13 years as a head colorist at Wendall White Studios in Portland. She later worked as a homecare provider and nanny.

She enjoyed art, traveling, watching game shows, bowling, playing bingo and family time.

She is survived by her children, Beth Blood of Portland, William “Bill” Blood of Raymond and David Morton of Raymond; and two grandchildren.

A private celebration of life service and burial at St. Hyacinth’s Cemetery in Westbrook will be held at a later date. Please contact Bill with any questions: williamhblood@yahoo.com Arrangements are with Chad E. Poitras Cremation and Funeral Service, Buxton. Online condolence messages can be submitted at www.mainefuneral.com If you choose to make memorial contributions, please consider the Gosnell Memorial Hospice House, 11 Hunnewell Road, Scarborough, ME 04074.

Nancy D. Wood NORWAY — Nancy DeHart Wood, 80, a longtime Norway resident, died Monday, Nov. 23, 2015 after a brief illness.

She was born in Boston, Mass. on March 5, 1935, to Albert and Susan Greene and grew up in Ashland, Mass., at the family apple orchard. Her education included graduation from Walnut Hill School, University of New Hampshire and New England Baptist Hospital, where she earned a registered nursing degree.

A longtime nurse, she worked at Boston area hospitals and a short stint at the American Hospital in Beirut, Lebanon, before becoming a psychiatric nurse, first at McLean Hospital of Belmont, Mass., and later at Tri-County Mental Health, where she worked for many years at several locations.

She married Thomas Wood of Norway in 1968, and had two sons, Peter and Timothy. After her divorce, she moved to Harrison in a house beside her beloved Crooked River.

She was a longtime member of the First Universalist Church of Norway, where she was active in social justice issues, as well as in the choir and the campaign for a new church organ.

Known for her joy in life, big heart and sense of adventure, she loved classical music, foreign travel, good food, good friends, sunny beaches, Scotland and her family.

She is survived by her sons, Peter and Timothy of Norway; brother, George of Wiscasset; a granddaughter; three nieces and many cousins.

Online condolences may be shared with her family at www. chandlerfunerals.com A celebration of her life was held at the First Universalist Church of Norway on Sunday, Nov. 29 at 2 p.m. Arrangements are under the care of Chandler Funeral Homes & Cremation Service, 45 Main Street, South Paris.

William G. Fitzcharles III ROCKLAND — William Grant Fitzcharles III, 59, better known as Fitzy, passed away unexpectedly Saturday, Nov. 26, 2015.

He was the eldest son of William and Carolyn Fitzcharles, and grew up in Pennington, New Jersey. In 1971 he moved to Bridgton with his family. He attended Lake Region High School and graduated in 1974. He went on to attend the University of Maine and Bangor Community College, as well as SMVTI. He later found his niche working in the ski industry. He was maintenance manager of Pleasant Mountain at Shawnee Peak for many years and later at Red Lodge in Montana. He returned to Maine to head the Camden Parks and Recreation department. He was also terrain and lift manager at Camden Snowbowl.

Fitzy enjoyed the outdoors and especially loved fly-fishing with his friends. He loved his pets Arey, Ozzie, and Maggie May. He was a devoted and helpful friend. He was respected and well-liked by all those who knew him.

He was predeceased by his parents. He will be sadly missed by his many friends. He will be missed by many aunts, uncles, and cousins; his brother, Robert and wife Kate of Bridgton along with nephews Robby, Grant, and Ian Fitzcharles, and their families.

There will be a celebration of life in remembrance of Fitzy in the spring. If you would like to be notified of the date please send an email to katie_fitzy@yahoo.com In lieu of flowers donations may be made to: Pope Memorial Humane Society of Knox County, PO Box 1294, Thomaston, Maine 04841.

Christmas Services Again this year, The Bridgton News will publish a listing of services/activities to be held at area churches during the Christmas season.

speeches before and after he became a politician (ibid., p. 3).”

Bollen also makes the observation that there is (Continued from Page 1D) a “fine line here between original citations and plagiarism…” How true; it is best stay as far away as possible from that line. There To The Editor: are enough ways to get into My thanks to Mr. Bollen trouble, as it is. for continuing the discusBob Casimiro sion about my bête noir, Bridgton writing. In his letter, he cites Ronald Reagan as an example of presidents, their speeches, what they say, and what they write, and the distinction between the To The Editor: two (“Interesting,” Nov. 26, You did it again — a 2015).

Thanksgiving feast at the One of the books I have Magic Lantern Theater on Reagan is a collection of Tannery Pub at no charge. the many radio commentar- We thank Mr. and Mrs. ies he delivered from 1975 Frank Howell, his staff and to 1979. These are all typed Hannah, his dog. The people copies of his handwritten of Bridgton and surrounding articles, including edits, communities thank you from on a whole range of topics the bottom of our hearts for (Reagan In His Own Hand, a wonderful time and meal.

Ed. by Kiron K. Skinner, et It is nice how you give back al., 2001). to the community in such a There is very little edit- touching way. ing, very different from the This Thanksgiving was editing done in the memo- top of the line with all of the rable 1987 speech he gave fixings. Pies were delicious. in Berlin when he implored Thanks again. Our hearts Soviet Union leader go out to all who made it Gorbachev to “tear down happen. Thanks for all of this wall.” Reagan put that the hard work in making it in a draft of his speech, and happen. the speechwriters kept sendSue Parent ing it back, with the phrase Bridgton removed, until Reagan finally prevailed. That is one speech a president could claim as his own (Berlin Wall –­ Behind the Scenes, Peter Robinson, reaganfounTo The Editor: dation.org).

Despite attempts by some Reagan was also the topic of discussion at a to change the point at issue, forum I attended in 2005 the fact remains that the disat the Kennedy Library in trict’s referendum vote on Dorchester (Boston), to hear Dec. 8 is solely about renoRichard Reeves discuss his vations to the Crooked River recently-released biogra- School, proposed in order phy of Reagan, President to alleviate the severe overReagan, The Triumph Of crowding at Songo Locks Imagination. Reeves said he Elementary School.

The SAD 61 School was “no intellectual, he was Board has offered several a man of ideas,” and those ideas were expressed in his options to this overcrowding many writings and com- issue in the past year (such ments in his book: Reagan as moving all fifth graders to “… took pride in the fact Lake Region Middle School) that he wrote or at least care- and the Board listened when fully edited most of his own LETTERS, Page 5D

Letters Continued discussion

Making it happen

One good turn

• Monuments • Markers • Urns

Please send the information to The News office by Monday, Dec. 14 at noon.

Mail to: The Bridgton News P.O. Box 244 Bridgton, ME 04009 fax to 207-647-5001 or e-mail at bnews@roadrunner.com

BRIDGTON — Charles Lloyd Taylor, 61, of North Bridgton, died Thursday afternoon Nov. 26, 2015, at Stephens Memorial Hospital in Norway.

He was born May 21, 1954, in Spencer, Iowa, to Glen and Marylee (Place) Taylor. Charles attended local schools, where he was active in music and drama programs, and went on to attend the University of Northern Iowa.

Charles’s work took him to many parts of the country including New York City, and summer stock in Conn., back home to his parents’ Century Farm in Milford, Iowa; then to Washington D.C., where he was Book Buyer at the National Gallery of Art; in New York, N.Y., as Book Buyer at the Museum of Modern Art; in Des Moines, Iowa, to begin working for developmentally disabled adults; and Bridgton, where he loved his job and all the clients and staff at Landmark Human Resources for fifteen years.

Charles enjoyed all forms of art and architecture, theater and American movies, worldwide travel when younger, home improvement projects, and voracious reading, most recently biographies.

He was always witty, charming, stylish, caring, sympathetic and generous. One of his ancestors attributed staying slim to “getting up from the table before I’m full.” E.B. White’s influence had a lot to do with the move to Maine.

He was loved by Bob Sturtz of North Bridgton since 1973; two sisters since 1954, Laura Taylor-Lloyd of Johnston, Iowa, and Mary Meyer of Galena, Ill.; three nieces, countless close friends and colleagues; and felines Fred and Stinky. Charles was preceded in death by his parents and brother Joel.

Informal memorial fellowship will be held from 2 to 4 p.m., Friday, Dec. 4, 2015, at the Chandler Funeral Home, 8 Elm St., Bridgton. Gifts in lieu of flowers to any charity of your choosing, your local schools’ arts and music budgets, or contributions for Landmark’s successor agency Opportunity Enterprises’ clients’ considerable costs to attend Special Olympics. Special thanks go to the Oncology Team at Stephens Memorial. His last doctor, Dr. McCulley, was amazing. Words of condolence and tribute may be shared at www.chandlerfunerals.com

1st & 3rd

WESTBROOK — Jacqueline L. Giles, 85, died Friday, Nov. 27, 2015, in Scarborough, at the Gosnell Memorial Hospice House.

She was born Aug. 19, 1930, in Bangor the daughter of Vernon Sr. and Ruth (Littlefield) Guptill.

Jacqueline grew up in Bangor and Gorham. She was a graduate of Gorham High School and Gorham State Teachers College. She taught in the Gray and Westbrook school systems for four years then enjoyed a career with the Ben Franklin stores retiring in 1993.

Jacqueline was a former member of the Embroiders Guild of America, and the Towle and Decorative Painters Society of America.

She was also a community representative for the Westbrook Housing Commission.

In addition to her parents, Jacqueline was predeceased by her brother, Vernon Guptill Jr. and sister, Barbara Enman.

She is survived by her sons, Lindscott Giles of Sebago and Kurt Giles of South Casco; daughter, Lisa Thibodeau of South Portland; sister, Phyllis Pike of Peabody Pond; and five grandchildren.

Visiting hours were held Wednesday, Dec. 2, 2015, from 5 to 7 p.m., at the Dolby & Dorr Funeral Chapel, 76 State Street, Gorham, where a funeral service will be held 10 a.m., Thursday, Dec. 3, 2015.

Burial will follow at the North Gorham Cemetery. Condolences to the family may be expressed at www.dolbyfuneralchapels.com Those wishing to remember Jacqueline may make donations in her name to: Hospice of Southern Maine, 180 US Rte. One, Scarborough, ME 04074 or made online at www.hospiceofsouthernmaine.org/give

NAPLES — Robert Neault, 56, of Naples passed away on Tuesday, Nov. 24, 2015 at Maine Medical Center in Portland.

Robert was born in Lowell, Mass. and was the fifth of 11 children. He joined the United States Army at age 17 and served for three years before earning his Juris Doctorate. He was an attorney with his own practice in Naples.

He was instrumental in the community, having served on the Naples Planning Board, aiding in the establishment of the Singer Center, and heading the Causeway Revitalization Committee. Robert was also a founding member of the Naples/Casco Before and After Care Program and was vice president of CrossWalk Community Outreach. Bob was an active member of St. Joseph Parish in Bridgton, where he served as a lector and former president of the Parish Council.

He was affectionately called the “King of Naples” by his family because of all his community service.

He is survived by his wife Anne; their three children Liam, Katie and Dan; and his father Ron of Warrenton, Va. Visitation was held on Monday, Nov. 30 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Hall’s Funeral Home in Casco. Funeral services were held on Tuesday, Dec. 1 at 11 a.m. at St. Joseph Church in Bridgton.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to CrossWalk Community Outreach, PO Box 64, Naples, ME 04055 or www.crosswalkcommunityoutreach.com

• Lettering RT. 302, NORTH CONWAY, N.H.

603-356-5398 OPEN YEAR ROUND The Bridgton News

2T49

Jacqueline L. Giles

Robert Neault

Charles L. Taylor

• Stone Cleaning

OBITUARY POLICY

The News will run, at no charge, obituaries that have local connections.

Photographs may be submitted at no additional charge, and whenever possible, they should be emailed as a jpg file.

The News will include: Individuals – predeceased by parents, siblings, spouse, children; survived by spouse, significant other, children, parents. Names of spouses of surviving relatives will not be included. In most cases names of the grandchildren, nephews and nieces will not be listed, just the number of each. However, if the deceased individual’s only connection to the area is a nephew, niece or grandchild, that person will be identified. The News reserves the right to edit all free obituaries.

Requests for more complete obituaries will be accepted as paid advertisements.

Contact: The Bridgton News, P.O. Box 244, 118 Main Street, Bridgton, ME 04009.

Tel. 207-647-2851, fax 207-647-5001, e-mail: bnews@roadrunner.com

Classifieds

CLASSIFIED DISPLAY ADS Deadline: Friday 4:00 p.m.

CLASSIFIED LINE ADS Deadline: Monday 5:00 p.m.

Classified advertising is sold in this space at the rate of $3.50 for 20 words or less and 15¢ a word over 20. All ads are payable in advance.

Repeats are charged at the same rate as new ads. Ads taken over the phone must be called in by Monday with payment arriving by Tuesday. A charge of $1.00 per week extra is made for the use of a box number if requested. A charge of $1.00 per classified is made if billing is necessary. Cards of Thanks and In Memoriams are charged at the same rate as classified ads. Poetry is charged by the inch.

Classified display is sold at $6.50 per column inch. Classified advertisers must furnish written copy.

The Bridgton News assumes no financial responsibility for typographical errors in advertisements other than to reprint that part of any advertisement in which a typographical error occurs. Advertisers will please notify the business office promptly of any errors that may occur, phone 207-647-2851.

Discriminatory Advertising under the Fair Housing Act

The Fair Housing Act of 1968 at 42 U.S.C. 3604(c) makes it unlawful “to make, print, or publish, or cause to be made, printed, or published any notice, statement, or advertisement, with respect to the sale, or rental of a dwelling that indicates any preference, limitation, or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.

CHALMERS INSURANCE &

REAL ESTATE

Part of the Chalmers Group

100 Main Street, Bridgton, ME 04009 Phone: 207-647-3311 Fax: 207-647-3003 www.chalmers-ins.com

HELP WANTED

CHALMERS INSURANCE — Group Parsonsfield, Me. Personal Lines account manager. Searching for experienced, passionate professional to join team. ChalmersInsuranceGroup.com/careers resume: SLovejoy@ChalmersInsuranceGroup.com 2t49

ALBANY — Single-family home, $750 per month. Manufactured home, 3 bedrooms, 1.5 baths, full basement, on private country lot.

Central location on Rt. 5 Albany Township, between North Waterford and East Stoneham. Nonsmokers only, pets negotiable.

First month plus deposit. Utilities ON EAGLES WINGS — Look- not included. Call Milly Millett, ing for a massage therapist that 890-9095. 2t49x wants to join our wellness center in Bridgton. We need someone with BRIDGTON — Single-family lots of heart and can do hot stones. house. Dead-end street. Five Please call Ann Ruel 207-415- rooms recently renovated. Two 9166. tf18 bedrooms, possible nursery off master bedroom, 1 bath. Large WORK WANTED private yard. Appliances, washerEXCAVATING — Have hoe, will dryer included. First month’s rent, travel. Snowplowing, removal and security and references. Possible sanding. Site work, foundations pets. $800 per month. 207-452tf48 dug, back filling, septic systems, 2585, cell 207-615-7344. sand, loam, gravel. Call Brad We will have — one of our Chute, 653-4377 or 627-4560. tf3 unique homes available soon.

TREE WORK — Brush removal, Small brick home minutes from garage cleanups, light trucking and downtown Bridgton looking for more. Call 595-8321.

5t49x quiet, nonsmoking tenant(s) with no pets. Master bedroom, office, SEMI-RETIRED CONTRACTOR bath w/walk-in shower, open liv— looking for plumbing work in ing area. Tile and Berber carpets the local area. Call 647-8026. tf30 throughout. Immaculate, efficient, new paint, kitchen appliances incl.

ODD JOBS — By the hour, day, Full basement for storage, w/d week or job. Also power washing. hookups, plowing, mowing and Free estimates. Call 627-4649. water incl. $875/mo. plus utilities.

4t48x Call Brickwoods FMI 207-4522441 or 207-357-7401. tf49 FOR SALE HARRISON — Winter rental January-May. 3-bedroom, 2-bath, fully furnished house near Long Lake. Comfortable, updated, in quiet neighborhood. Owner pays snow plowing, renter pays utilities, shovels path. $1,100 a month, WESTERNMAINEFIREWOOD.com security deposit and references. No — Seasoned hardwood. Aged 12 pets, no smoking. Contact Corinne months or more. Cut, split and Martin. 207-653-8718.

4t46x delivered. Cord $300; Half cord $160, 583-4113 or 595-5029.

55t31x FIREWOOD — $225 per cord green. Ask about volume discount. 2 cord minimum for delivery. 207-925-1138. westernmainetimberlands.com tf13

GREEN FIREWOOD — $225.

12-month seasoned firewood $250. Delivered within 20 miles of North Bridgton, Me. 207-5156956. 4t47x

VEHI­CLES FOR SALE

GOOD CARS — Reasonable.

From $2000 up. Trades welcome.

Dave’s Garage 329-2602. tf43

JESUS IS LORD – new and used auto parts. National locator.

Most parts 2 days. Good used cars.

Ovide’s Used Cars, Inc., Rte. 302 SHIPPER/RECEIVER — ware- Bridg­ton, 207-647-5477. tf30 house worker. Computer experiFOR RENT ence required. Hours are 10-3 Monday – Friday. Call 207-647- BRIDGTON — Updated clean 3300. tf47 1-bedroom apartment close to TREE WORKERS NEEDED town. Includes heat, water, plow— Experience helpful but will ing, off-street parking. Well-mantrain the right individuals. Apply aged property and great neighonline at www.Q-Team.com/em- bors. $675/mo. $625 deposit. Visit ployment-application or in person bridgtonapartments.com. Call Paul at Q-Team on Route 11 in Naples. 978-337-0135. tf49 693-3831. tf39

FOR RENT

NAPLES ­— off Route 35. Second floor apartment, 2 bedrooms.

No smoking, no pets. $950 month includes heat & electric. Call 207899-5052. tf48

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

BUSINESS SERVICES

COME LIVE on the farm — in Otisfield, Maine. We are looking for an elderly, assisted living-level individual to share our home with. Laundry, cleaning, personal care, healthy homegrown meals, transportation, heat and electricity all included.

If interested please call Eileen at 207-627-7149. Eileen is CRMA, DSP, CPR nand First Aid certified with 20 years experience. We have respite also available for your loved one.

4t48x

Gateway Worship

Concert featuring

A Little Bit of This, A Little Bit of That Gold & Silver Jewelry Sat. Dec. 5, 2015 10 am to 5 pm

510 Portland Road Bridgton We will be bringing in a collection of turquoise, gold, & silver jewelry, for one day only, just in time for holiday shopping. Stop in & check it out. FMI: 207-523-0533.

“God Be Praised” Saturday, Dec. 5th at 6 p.m.

Bridgton Alliance Church 368 Harrison Rd. (Rt. 117) 207-462-2014 1T49

STUARTS AUTOMOTIVE New Inspections & 14-Day Plates 2005 Volkswagon Jetta auto, loaded, 1-owner.........................$3500 2006 Pontiac G6, 4 dr. sedan, auto, moonroof.............................$3500 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix sedan, auto, loaded..................................$3500 2009 Hyundai Sonata, auto, 30mpg car, 145k miles................$4500 2008 Chevy Malibu LTZ, 117k...$7500 2001 Chevy Tahoe LT, 4x4...........$4000 1999 Mercury Grand Marquis, loaded, no rust..............................$2500 2007 Dodge Ram 1500 Quad Cab 4x4, Hemi auto......................$8000 214 Casco Rd., Naples 838-9569

Town of Brownfield

Seasonal Plow Truck Operator

Seasonal/Unoccupied Home Specials

For more information please contact Frank Day, Public Works Director at (207) 935-2152 or (207) 890-8293. Applications are available at the Brownfield Town Office, 82 Main Street, Brownfield, ME 04010. Rate of pay is $12.00 per hour. 2T48CD

Now taking applications for employment.

• Tree Removal • Logging • Fully Insured

Painting Interior | Exterior Powerwash Carpentry | Flooring Roofing | Siding Landscape Tree Work | Yard Care Andrew Fogg

207-595-9249

TF51CD

STATION ELEVATION 560 FT.

High Low

• Lots cleared • Buying Standing Timber

TF41CD

GOOD NEIGHBORS INC.

TF49CD

A&D

RESTORATION

(H) 647-3584 ~ (C) 583-7438

Are you ready to BE more?

Are you ready to DO more?

Come Grow with us at

Make a difference today and come join our team of Direct Support Professionals!

207-515-0415

Bob Mitchell

TF22CD

Interested applicants are welcome to apply within at: Good Neighbors, Inc., 119 Sandy Creek Rd., Bridgton, ME 04009. For further information, please contact Wanda Millett, Human Resource Manager, at 647-8244 ext. 11.

• General Contracting • Water Lines • Excavation • Septic Systems • Bush Hogging • Retaining Walls • Firewood “ONE CALL DOES IT ALL” 207-647-8146

Residential / Commercial Repairs – New Ceilings 23 Years Experience Free estimates

$225/cord green ~ cut/split/del.

207-452-2157

Regular positions are also available for immediate overnight, weekend and evening shifts in the Bridgton area. Highly-competitive rates and benefits are offered based on qualifications and desired positions.

JDN ENTERPRISES

Plaster - Drywall

TF39CD

NAPLES SHOPPING CENTER Route 302, Naples, ME 207-693-3988

Direct Support Professionals interested in per diem positions (requiring 30 hours per month) that possess a current DSP and CRMA certificate, are eligible to receive a starting wage of $11.50 per hour in lieu of benefits.

142 Main Street Conway, NH 603-447-3611 Metal Detectors

Wallboard Specialist

hilltoplanddevelopment@gmail.com 207-671-1228

Must be 18 or older. All positions part-time.

Apply in person at The Umbrella Factory.

No experience is necessary, as all training will be provided.

Requirements do include a minimum of a High School diploma or GED, must be at least 18 years of age, possess a valid driver’s license and a basic proficiency in computer skills.

TFCD

TFCD23

10' x 10' Unit $50.00 per month

Opportunities await for Direct Support Professionals in the Bridgton area to provide services to persons with Intellectual and Cognitive Disabilities. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, assisting with personal care, facilitating activities and community involvement, documentation, and promoting life skill development.

Buying and Offering US Coins Gold & Silver Bullion

JACK KOSTKA “JK” jdnenterprisesllc@yahoo.com

DENMARK SELF-STORAGE

The UMBRELLA FACTORY SUPERMARKET

NEW ARTS DANCE STUDIO — Sasha Richardson opened a new dance studio in South Paris this fall called Expansion Arts Dance Studio. Art Moves Dance Studio in Norway, Sasha’s former and still part-time home, is still open. The two studios will collaborate on a holiday show, “Silver and Gold.” Collaboration is how they have always worked.

Concert-only dance studios have become rare. Art Moves, The Ballroom in Harrison, and now Expansion Arts in South Paris, focus on the art, technique, expression and joy of dance. “Silver and Gold,” an informal show at Oxford Hills Comprehensive High School Auditorium on Friday, Dec. 18 at 7 p.m. (snow date, Dec. 21), will be a demonstration/ celebration of what students have been working on this fall in ballet, modern, tap, bellydance, hip-hop, jazz and jazzfunk (Expansion Arts) and Variant Jazz and Technique (Art Moves). Tickets will be available at Expansion Arts, Books N Things and at the door. Pictured left to right, Karianna Merrill, Sasha Richardson, Debi Irons, Tegan Bullard and Greta Giasson.

(Photo by Sharon Merrill)

TF16CD

The Town of Brownfield has an opening for a seasonal, parttime, snow plow operator. To be qualified for consideration applicants must possess a Class II driver’s license and be available on an on-call basis throughout the winter.

PLEASE CONSIDER — donating gently used furniture, household items and more to Harvest Hills Animal Shelter.

FMI, go to our website www. harvesthills.org for details or call 935-4358, ext. 21. tf44

NO DOWN PAYMENT — New home! USDA RD need credit score and income, you get low payment.

Cumberland County, Howland Homes. 207-807-1004. 207-6254302. 4t48x

Sat., Dec. 5th 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

19 Berry Rd. Sweden

DEN­MARK HOUSE — Painting, Inc. Inter­ior and Exterior Paint­ing. Also, Paper­hang­ing. 40 years of painting ex­pe­ri­ence. Call for esti­mates. Call John Math­ews, 207-452-2781. tf49

WANTED

CASCO — Completely furnished rooms, heat, lights & cable TV included. $125 weekly. No pets. Call cell, 207-595-4946. tf46

Saturday Night of Worship

Furniture, TV, Dishes, Pictures, Rugs

BUSINESS SERVICES

BRIDGTON — For sale or rent commercial lease immediately HEAP HAULERS — Towing available. A newly-renovated service. Cash paid for junk cars.

ATTENTION stand-alone, 1,400-sq. ft. building Call 655-5963. tf12 Classified line ads are now posted is available for lease in Bridgton. on our website at NO EXTRA Large, sunny open layout with CHARGE! www.bridgton.com loft and one private office. Energy-efficient, AC/heat, and plenty of parking. Great location across from the hospital situated adjacent to 17 acres of beautifully-groomed hiking trails. Many potential uses.

If interested please call Joe at 207890-9192. tf46

Moving Sale

1T49CD

$5 FOR TATTERED — U.S. BN 49 Flag when purchasing new U.S. Flag 3’x5’ or larger. Maine Flag HELP WANTED & Banner, Windham, 893-0339. tf46 HELP WANTED — E.O.E. Maine School Administrative Dis- RED’S FIREWOOD — Cut, trict 72, 124 Portland St., Fryeburg, split and delivered. Any amounts.

ME 04037. Employment Postings: Call 615-6342 for details. tf35 www.msad72.org tf46 WITS END ­­— Child Care Center is seeking lead teacher/asst. center director. Hours will vary 30 to 40 hrs. per week. Candidate will have current CDA, ECE, CPR/First Aid, be reliable and work independently or within a group setting. FMI please call 207-615-4098. 2t49x

FOR RENT

TF12CD

Page 4D, The Bridgton News, December 3, 2015

Day

Date

7AM Precip

Mon.

11/23

40°

31°

31°

----

Tues.

11/24

40°

18°

19°

----

Wed.

11/25

35°

18°

20°

----

Thurs.

11/26

39°

20°

33°

----

Fri.

11/27

47°

33°

44°

----

Sat.

11/28

58°

44°

45°

----

Sun.

11/29

45°

21°

21°

----

Mon.

11/30

36°

16°

16°

----

NOVEMBER AVERAGES High 49.7°, Low 30.0°, at 7 a.m. 34.4°, Precip = 2.42" DECEMBER TRIVIA High 12/8/98 = 68°, Low 12/24/85 = 21° Below

Opinions

Wake up America

To The Editor: The nation that has been a shining light to the entire world for nearly a century now, is rapidly coming apart at the seams. From an out-ofcontrol and ethically-bankrupt federal government, to a culture that is in absolute moral free-fall, America’s numerous problems are reaching the point of no return, and if we don’t soon start bring them under control, we can kiss this magnificent country goodbye, which would please many on the left.

Illicit drugs are exacting a dreadful toll on the nation, as tens of thousands of Americans are dying terrible deaths because of drug overdoses. Millions of Americans are so hooked on drugs that they can’t hold down a job or support their families, which means that taxpayers have to pick up that huge burden.

Street drugs today, such as heroin, are far more powerful and addictive than ever before and are also very cheap. A hit of heroin can be purchased for about what one would pay for a quart of Ben & Jerry’s ice cream.

In a bout of utter madness, states are falling all over themselves to make street drugs legal, figuring they will reap a financial bonanza from taxes collected on drug sales.

In their overwhelming greed,

Stopping the heroin dealers

(Continued from Page 1D) Maine law enforcement officers are fighting with one hand behind their back against an increasingly organized, sophisticated and ruthless drug gangs from New York, Massachusetts and Connecticut.

Lab analysis of confiscated heroin samples show the heroin being sold in Presque Isle is just as strong as that sold in Portland — and doses laced with deadly fentanyl additives are increasingly prevalent throughout the state.

In the past, heroin used to come into Portland and make its way to more rural areas, being cut in purity as it made its way down the dealer network. Now, out-of-state drug gangs are systematically targeting small Maine towns one at a time in an effort to get local people hooked on high-purity heroin.

It’s nothing less than an organized conquest of our state. It has to be stopped.

Drug dealers like “Smooth” and “Jamaican Bob” need to see their friends get caught more often. Their cost of doing business in Maine must significantly increase if they are to be dissuaded from selling their poison here.

Little known to the public is that MDEA agents must clean up the toxic meth labs that are being busted in record numbers this year — 50 so far. This pulls the agents off the streets for days at a time and halts their efforts to hunt down and arrest drug dealers.

With 10 more agents, MDEA can conduct more sting operations and gather more intelligence on the ground. These jobs require agents to go undercover, work long hours on weekends, holidays and often through the night. They are pulled from their families, and the stress and dangers of the job would be unbearable for most people.

These agents need more backup. They need our support, and they need a commitment from the legislature to fund 10 more positions. It can take up to six months to find, hire and train experienced drug agents. We need to get the process moving so we can get them on the streets as soon as possible.

Their goal is not to put addicts in jail, but to put enough heat on the dealer network to save lives and reverse the tide of heroin addiction in Maine. We can’t let the out-of-state drug dealers win. Please contact your state lawmakers and urge them to fund positions for 10 new MDEA agents.

Who’s to blame?

(Continued from Page 1D) racy, we are responsible to the community for the positions we advocate. Those politicians and activists who inveigh against Planned Parenthood (in error, I believe it has been established) take on some part of the blame when a weakminded person goes off balance and acts out the punishment he believes he has a right and duty to inflict.

I am straining to hear some voices of remorse from those whose cries of rage nurtured or possibly brought on the crimes in Colorado Springs. Instead, there is silence where there were ranting accusations.

Henry Precht is a retired Foreign Service Officer.

Gratitude, ingratitude

To The Editor: I’m having a difficult time with the concept of “gratitude” these days, so like most difficult challenges to my cynical, troubled psyche,

I’m going to try it out despite myself.

At this particular moment, I’m extremely grateful to Frank Howell, his wife and helpers who do all they can to develop community spirit within the confines of the Magic Lantern, which is a hop, skip and a jump away from a wonderful Community Center whose director is Carmen Lone. Both the Community Center and the Magic Lantern have become a hub of community activity, free dinners, public and private meetings, those interested in community gardens and all kinds good things. Frank Howell proved to be a terrific host. He even permitted a bunch of us with pretensions to changing the world, to sit around and gab for at least an hour after he and his crew washed and cleaned up after us. It was Downton Abbey in reverse. We, who too often believe ourselves outside the magic circles of privilege, got waited on hand and foot.

The free food was delicious, some of which we took with us and shared with family or neighbors who chose to remain alone. There was no doubt that we, living within poverty or precariously balanced on the edge of it, were definitely in charge of creating new cultural paradigms — at least for a couple of hours or so. A reminder that St. Peters Episcopal Church has free dinners, usually on the third Wednesday of every month that are open to the community but this week, because of Thanksgiving, the free dinner was held on Dec. 2. The First Congo Church on High Street in Bridgton prepared an enormous number of Thanksgiving baskets.

Public Notice

FOR SALE

The Town of Waterford has a 2001 Ford F450 with plow-wing-sander for sale.

Sealed bids must be received by December 14, 2015, at 5:00 p.m. Bids will be opened December 14, 2015, at 6:45 p.m., at the Municipal building, 366 Valley Road.

The Selectmen reserve the right to accept and/or reject any and all bids, and may select the bid most advantageous to The Town of Waterford. For further information call Brad Grover at 5832570. May be seen at the Waterford Public Works Building, 516 Waterford Road.

2T48 LEGAL ADVERTISEMENT

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE PURSUANT TO 14 M.R.S.A. §6323 By virtue of a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale dated November 13, 2015, entered in the Maine District Court, District Nine, Division of Southern Cumberland at Portland, Civil Action, Docket No. PORDC-RE-2012-131, in an action brought by the UNITED STATES OF AMERICA acting through the RURAL HOUSING SERVICE, USDA, f/k/a the FARMERS HOME ADMINISTRATION, Plaintiff, against WANDA PAULINE MERRILL, Personal Representative of the ESTATE OF PARKER LOVEJOY BROOKS, JR. Defendant, and VINCENT J. ATRIPALDI and ELISE WILLEY f/k/a ELISE ATRIPALDI, WANDA P. MERRILL, BRIAN LIBBY and KAYLA LIBBY and ALL OTHER PERSONS UNASCERTAINED, NOT IN BEING OR UNKNOWN CLAIMING BY, THROUGH OR UNDER THE DECEDENT, LORNA MAE LIBBY, OR ANY OF THE ABOVE NAMED PARTIES AS HEIRS, DEVISEES, APPOINTEES OR IN ANY OTHER WAY, Parties in Interest, for the foreclosure of a Mortgage Deed dated August 21, 1990 and recorded in the Cumberland County Registry of Deeds in Book 9287 Page 166, the statutory ninety (90) day redemption period having been waived, notice is hereby given that there will be sold at public sale at the offices of the USDA, Rural Housing Service, 306 U. S. Route 1, Scarborough, Maine, on January 13, 2016 at 2:00 P.M., all and singular the premises described in said mortgage deed and being situate at 24 Birchwood Extension in Windham, Maine.

The property shall be sold to the highest bidder at the sale. Ten percent (10%) of the purchase price will be required to be paid, in cash or by certified check payable to the USDA, Rural Housing Service, at the time and place of sale. The balance of the purchase price is to be paid within thirty (30) days following the sale. Failure to pay the balance due within thirty (30) days following the sale shall be deemed a forfeiture of the successful bidder’s deposit. Additional terms may be announced at the time of sale.

The above property is being sold “as is” and will be conveyed by Release Deed without any warranty as to the condition, size or location of the property or the state of title to the property.

The property will be sold subject to utility easements and rights of way of record and utility easements and rights-of-way that are visible on the face of the earth. The property will be sold subject to real estate taxes assessed by and due and payable to the Town of Windham.

Information regarding the terms and conditions of the sale of this property may be obtained by contacting the offices of Broderick & Broderick, P.A. at (207) 7946557.

Dated: November 30, 2015 /s/ Richard H. Broderick, Jr., Esq. Attorney for Plaintiff

Christmas trees

By Robert Fogg Guest Columnist ’Tis the season when just about everyone brings a tree inside to decorate for the holidays.

Balsam Fir is the top choice here in Maine, although some people might go for a Scotch Pine or a Spruce.

Balsam Fir gives off a heavy, woodsy scent that can’t be matched and it holds its needles longer than a spruce.

Have you ever wondered why many so people practice the Christmas tree tradition this time of year?

Where did it all begin? Some say it began in Germany during the 8th century when Saint Boniface cut an oak tree to stop a sacrifice. Later, a fir tree grew from the location where the oak tree had been and so the old saint proclaimed it a holy tree. Others say a fellow named Martin Luther started the tradition in the 16th century by bringing a tree inside and lighting it with candles for his family, and he dedicated the tree to the birth of Christ.

Apparently, Queen Victoria and Prince Albert popularized the Christmas Tree in England during the 1800s.

We will probably never know for sure where the Christmas tree tradition began, but many people will continue the tradition just the same.

For those who do keep an indoor tree this holiday season, please be safe and keep your tree from becoming a fire hazard by drying out. Try to keep the tree in water at all times and discard it before it gets too dry. Never allow any open flame around your tree and remember to turn the lights off any time the tree will be left unattended.

I would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a safe and happy Christmas Season. Thank you.

Robert Fogg is general manager of Q-Team Tree Service in Naples and is also a licensed Arborist. He can be reached at RobertFogg@Q-Team.com or 693-3831.

They will now be concentrating on making sure the children in the Bridgton Community will have exactly what they want and need for

Christmas, even if the rest of their lives seem to be falling apart around them. We have two food pantries in LETTERS, Page 6D

TOWN OF BRIDGTON 3 CHASE STREET, SUITE 1 BRIDGTON, MAINE 04009

Public Notice

TOWN OF WATERFORD

LEGAL ADVERTISEMENT

Tree Talk

From November 20, 2015 – April 15, 2016, no vehicle shall be parked on any public street or way from 11:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. as per MRSA 29A Section 2068-2069 and the Bridgton Traffic Ordinance adopted January 10, 1995, and amended August 27, 1996, and October 25, 2005. A townwide parking ban may be called for with notification.

Vehicles may be towed at owner’s expense.

Thank you for your cooperation.

James Kidder, Public Works Director 47-49

TOWN OF BRIDGTON 3 CHASE STREET, SUITE 1 BRIDGTON, MAINE 04009

NOTICE TO PERSON(S) PLOWING DRIVEWAYS WITHIN THE LIMITS OF THE TOWN OF BRIDGTON, MAINE Warning is hereby given that no person or persons shall plow, shovel or otherwise deposit snow, or cause the same to be done, into the limits of any traveled public way within the Town of Bridgton.

It is permissible to plow the snow bank left by the street plow directly in front of a driveway to each side of the driveway onto the snow bank.

Pursuant to MRSA 17A, Section 505, “Placing Obstructions on a Traveled Road” and MRSA 29A Section 2396 “Snow, a person may not place and allow to remain on a public way snow or slush that has not accumulated there naturally.”

Persons in violation of these laws shall be subject to legal action.

Thank you for your cooperation.

James Kidder Public Works Director 47-49

Notice of

PUBLIC MEETING 3T49

In BRIDGTON

To discuss effects under Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act on the National Register-eligible Moose Pond Causeway in Bridgton, Maine

Notice of

FORMAL

PUBLIC MEETING IN NAPLES

Tuesday, December 15th, 2015 From 5:00 – 6:30 p.m.

TO DISCUSS THE FOLLOWING: BRIDGE REMOVAL OF THE OLD CROOKED RIVER BRIDGE #0187 AND THE REPLACEMENT OF THE CROCKETT BRIDGE #2199

Bridgton Town Office 3 Chase Street, STE 1 Bridgton, Maine 04009

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2015, AT 6:00 P.M. AT THE NAPLES TOWN OFFICE LOCATED AT 15 VILLAGE GREEN LANE IN NAPLES Please join MaineDOT at a formal public meeting to discuss the removal of the Old Crooked River Bridge (#0187) in Naples which carries Old Rt. 302 (Discontinued) over the Crooked River and the replacement of the Crockett Bridge (#2199) in Naples, which carries Rte. 11 & 114 over the Muddy River.

Representatives of the Maine Department of Transportation will be present on Wednesday, December 9th, 2015 at 6:00 p.m. to listen to concerns, receive comments, and answer questions from anyone with an interest in the project.

The Department is particularly interested in learning local views relative to project consistency with local comprehensive plans, discovering local resources, and identifying local concerns and issues. Anyone with an interest is invited to attend and participate in the meeting.

Accommodations will be made for persons with disabilities. Auxiliary aids will be provided upon advance request.

Any inquiries regarding this project may be directed to the attention of Mark Parlin, Project Manager, Maine Department of Transportation, Bridge Program, 16 State House Station, Augusta, Maine 04333-0016. Telephone: (207) 624-3449. E-mail: mailto:mark.parlin@maine.gov Work Identification Numbers 018744.00 and 020466.00 Federal Aid Project Number STP-1874(400) and STP-2046(600) TTY Telephone (888) 516-9364

Please join the Federal Highway Administration and MaineDOT at a public meeting to discuss impacts to the Moose Pond Causeway as a result of placing guardrail along the causeway.

Representatives of the Federal Highway Administration and Maine Department of Transportation will be present on Tuesday evening, December 15th, 2015, from 5:00 – 6:30 p.m., to listen to concerns, receive comments, and answer questions from anyone with an interest in the project.

Accommodations will be made for persons with disabilities. Auxiliary aids will be provided upon advance request.

Any inquiries regarding this project may be directed to the attention of Bradford Foley, Highway Program Manager, Maine Department of Transportation, Highway Program, Child Street, 16 State House Station, Augusta, Maine 04333-0016. Telephone: (207) 624-3539. E-mail: brad.foley@maine.gov Work Identification Numbers 020281.00 Federal Aid Project Number NHP – 2028(100) TTY Telephone Relay 711

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(Continued from Page 3D) the voters asked the Board to create a plan for the repurposing of the Crooked River School.

Bridgton residents will remember the support we received from other towns in the school district 17 years ago when Stevens Brook Elementary School was in need of major upgrades and renovations to meet state standards. It’s now time for us to show our support for the children of Naples and Casco by voting “Yes” on Dec. 8.

Laura H. Ordway Bridgton

War has been declared on law enforcement in many of America’s major cities. These are the very areas where an aggressive police presence is most needed because of the staggering epidemic of violent crime in these precincts.

Progressives have convinced residents of most inner cities that the police are their enemies. President Obama has been one of the leading agitators, as he has a well-documented habit of inserting himself into policecitizen confrontations and inflaming the situation before he has bothered to learn any of the facts.

Yes, there is a tiny minority of police that cross the line, but the vast majority of officers do very noble and thankless work, under conditions that most of us would find appalling.

Many inner city areas are virtual war zones; one can only imagine the carnage that would ensue if there weren’t a major police presence in these vast enclaves of violence and despair.

Police officers are just like the rest of us, when they go to work they want to make a difference and then return safely to their families.

We should be ashamed of how we take them for granted.

Robert M. Howe Jr. Bridgton

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Letters

they fail to account for the millions of lives that will be destroyed and the billions of dollars that will be required to support devastated families and provide medical care for the hopelessly addicted.

Government statistics indicate that seventy-five percent of all crime and seventy percent of all child abuse involve substance abuse. Why, in God’s name, would we want to add to those deplorable figures?

America’s education system is in a decades-long decline, as our students continue to fall farther and farther behind the world’s other major industrialized nations.

We pump far more money into education than any other country, yet the results are abysmal at best, and downright disgraceful at worst.

Teachers unions, particularly in the larger states, fight change tooth and nail.

They simply will not tolerate charter schools, teacher accountability, merit pay or any attempt to alter the status quo.

Short of a murder conviction, it is virtually impossible to get rid of underperforming and incompetent teachers, as the unions will drag out any dismissal proceedings for years at the cost of hundreds of thousands for the school involved.

Teachers unions shower millions of dollars on Democratic politicians every election cycle and, in return, Dems will sabotage any effort to hold teachers accountable.

A great deal for both parties for sure.

An overwhelming number of America’s colleges are bastions of extreme intolerance.

No view other than uber-liberalism is permitted at even the so-called elite institutions such as Harvard, Yale and our own Bates, Bowdoin and Colby. If conservatives have the gall to attempt to speak at most colleges, they will be immediately shouted down and physically chased off the stage. So much for civility and democracy.

The main goal for many colleges seems to be to convince the students to hate their country, their parents’ traditional American values and anyone who doesn’t toe an overtly progressive line.

December 3, 2015, The Bridgton News, Page 5D

Opinions

Page 6D, The Bridgton News, December 3, 2015

Letters

Bridgton. Of course, as I pour forth my gratitude for having found myself living here, I must remind readers of my extended family and home away from home, which is Beth’s Kitchen. It is there where I begin my day most every day of the week and it is at Beth’s that I feel the most welcomed anchored in community for being who I am.

Ingratitude.

So, indeed, I could NOT be more grateful except, of course, when I am not grateful and this is why. As much as I benefit from and am grateful to charity, I have always wanted to believe that even as a person who is poor, I could become an effective writer, activist and speaker on behalf of those of us who are grateful recipients of welfare and still have a roof over my head. Yes, I have wanted to be one of the ones who “give back” to the community, one who knows that I am needed not only for my cooking, carpentry, gardening and cleaning up skills (all of which are deteriorating as I age) rather than see myself as one who is in need. Indeed, I have difficulties “dusting off” all the constant comments made about the free loading, lazy poor welfare queens who are just looking to “scam” the system and an ever-greater burden for the hard working taxpayers, etc.

What would make me/us feel even more grateful is to have our civic contributions publicly noted. Most of us

want to know that we can be teachers at what we are good at, rather than simply students of those with either more income or established authority than ourselves.

I am grateful, but I would feel so much better if I was recognized, and even better paid for what I do best to provide purpose and meaning to my life.

I would be grateful if someone might ask a question, respond, hear me out.

Indeed, I do get the negative responses, but positive ones are welcome. I think I might not be simply speaking for myself, but for others as well.

Thank you and yes, I am grateful to have the opportunity to say this.

Virginia (Tilla) Durr Bridgton

Showcase school

To The Editor: The state method for allocating school taxes to towns is a based upon “fiscal capacity”; it is determined from the state’s model of each town’s real estate valuations (not the actual valuations). For SAD 61, 35.23% is allocated to Bridgton; 15.14% to Sebago; 21.5% to Casco; and 21.95% to Naples. In configuring a showcase school for Casco, over 50% of the cost is allocated to two towns that do not actually benefit from the construction. So, there is a tendency for Casco and Naples to promote nonessential features as they benefit from one dollar of tax increase equals two dollars in local construction. The projected cost of the

showcase school has grown from $6.8 million to $9.6 million dollars. Was there no limit to what could be spent?

One would want to ask the Casco and Naples taxpayer if they would still want CRES rebuilt to such a grandiose standard if they were paying the whole bill, $330,000 to each town. At that price point, I would think not. Remember, this is being done 100% with local dollars.

There will be additional substantial operational costs for running the school which, to date, have not been described to the public.

With that thought in mind, since this is 100% local dollars, there is a precedent for allocating 100% of major capital costs for new construction to be paid for by the towns in which the improvement is made. Thus, if Casco and Naples want a 330-seat auditorium and a building capable of housing 350 students, when less than 250 is required then, Casco and Naples could have it by paying for it.

By the way, the financial impact is projected as if it were the only increase to be absorbed by our taxpayers.

Each year, the cost of salaries and benefits increase. Last year, the school tax increase was less than the increase in salaries and benefits of over $614,000 because cuts were made. Next year, the increase in salaries and benefits is a higher figure, projected to be $750,000. There is a list of high-dollar additional projects, which are waiting in the wings. So, the taxpayer can expect actual increases of two to three times that projected for the CRES proj-

Thursday, Dec. 10th • 4:30 to 7 p.m.

Rain, snow, sleet, hail…no rain date.

This is our biggest event of the year for all our customers & friends.

A GREAT PARTY FOR CHILDREN OF ALL AGES!

*

PRIZES will be raffled off in the UFO store!

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You don’t have to be presen t to win!

*Due to the overwhelming demand on our pizza shop we will be closing at 3:30 p.m to be able to provide free pizza slices for our Family Night event.

OFFICIAL THANKSGIVING GREETER is one turkey that won’t be eaten. This turkey with the colorful plumes greeted the people who passed over the Crooked River Bridge on Edes Falls Road during the November holiday. On closer inspection whoever place the turkey on the bridge railing secured it with chicken wire. (De Busk Photo) ect within the next two years, likely a 7% to 10% increase.

While it will be necessary to reopen CRES to solve the overcrowding at Songo Locks School, do we really need it to be a showcase school?

Joseph McMahon SAD 61 School Board Member Sebago

The facts of the matter

To The Editor: Here are the facts regarding the Crooked River School Renovation Project: Myth: Crooked River is being built too big.

Fact: Crooked River was built in 1984 when the state dictated the process. As such, the school’s capacity could only be as great as the amount of students that would immediately be attending that school. Two years later, five portable classrooms were needed to house the increased student population of Casco and Naples. By the late 90s (when my children attended Crooked River), an additional portable with four classrooms was added to the site.

Ironically, teachers wanted to teach in those portables because the rooms inside the building were too small.

Again, in 1984 the state allotment was 675 square feet per classroom. By contrast, today’s standard is 800 square feet per classroom. The state standard in 1984 was to allow 125 square feet per student.

Today’s standard is 145 to 160 square feet per student.

Crooked River was originally built with 14 classrooms — again, all of those classrooms are too small for the needs of today’s students.

Half of those classrooms have portable walls between them, which are not sound proof. By 2005, there were 15 regular education classrooms, four special education class-

rooms, rooms for Art, Health, Music, Gifted & Talented, and the library all crammed into the school building and nine portable classrooms.

The recommendation by PDT Architects, at that time, May 12, 2005, was to renovate the building by adding to the cafeteria — 1,500 square feet; library — 1,500 square feet; music — 1,000 square feet; two resource rooms — 1,000 square feet; a Science lab — 750 square feet; offices — 250 square feet; and a stage – 625 square feet.

They also recommended a 12,000-square-foot classroom addition, and an addition to the kitchen of 400 square feet.

What are we looking at building today? Basically, we are looking at doing exactly what PDT recommended back in 2005 — 10 years ago. And what was the student population then? Two hundred thirty-eight students.

Today, we are looking at a population of 260 students that will move to the new Crooked River Elementary School in September 2017.

We are ABSOLUTELY NOT building this too big.

Myth: This project is meant to close Sebago Elementary School.

Fact: I have been on the Lake Region School Board for almost 18 years. I still remember to this day when PDT Architects recommended closing Sebago back in 1999-2000. This recommendation from the architects has been repeated many times over the course of my time on the board. Every facility study conducted in the past 17 years has revisited this recommendation. NEVER has this recommendation come to the school board for a vote.

This has NEVER been a discussion item on an agenda for the full board to review.

It is NOT the intention of the board to close Sebago Elementary when Crooked River has been renovated and reopened. But, in all good conscience, the school board

cannot give Sebago a guarantee that Sebago Elementary School will remain open for 20 years. That’s what they want in order to support this renovation of Crooked River.

What the board did do back in 2000 was to create a board policy that supported the education of all elementary students in their hometown.

This policy was reaffirmed in 2006 when the last facility study was conducted by PDT architects.

This project is being done to eliminate the overcrowding at Songo Locks School.

The capacity of Songo Locks School is 385. There are now 460 students housed at Songo Locks where eight portable classrooms have been added. The expectation is that soon the state will require all school districts to provide pre-K education for all students. This cannot happen with the current situation.

Myth: This is a “showcase” school.

Fact: This is a total reconstruction of the inside of the building along with an addition of 10 classrooms, a library, a stage with a music room on one side, and a small auditorium with a capacity of 150. There’s no big sound system or lighting system. It’s a multipurpose room where staff can have meetings, students can perform plays or just practice public speaking.

There is no glitz, no vaulted ceilings, no stained glass.

This project will renovate the whole building from top to bottom along with all the ADA requirements, the state requirements, fire suppression systems, etc. This is not a showcase school. This will be a building where we can showcase the talents of the students and the people who work every day to ensure the best for the kids of our district.

Please support the students of our District by voting “Yes” on Dec. 8 Janice Barter Naples