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Family tradition Like his father, David Hastings is Fryeburg Fair’s new president Page 2A

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

Vol. 150, No. 50

16 PAGES - 2 Sections

Bridgton, Maine

December 16, 2021

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Community rallies to help $21,720 raised for assault victim; drive to buy woman a car

By Wayne E. Rivet Staff Writer Daniel Valsecchi remembers as a young boy the number of times while going to the grocery store he and his father would stop to help a motorist along the side of the road.

Nine times out of 10, they had the situation under control, yet thanked Daniel and his dad for stopping.

It is a practice Daniel has continued into his adult years.

It likely saved Melissa Scammon’s life.

“I was on my way back to Bridgton. My girlfriend and my daughter live on Walker Street. We were attending a Christmas party in Freeport for her employer. We stayed overnight. There was a small issue that needed attention,

ON THE MEND — Melissa Scammon, pictured with fiancé Kevin Benoit , is back home recovering from injuries sustained in a brutal early Saturday attack as she was walking to work.

(GoFundMe Photo) and I contemplated back and forth whether I was going to come back or not. Ultimately, at 3 in the morning, I tossed and turned, and decided to go and take care of it. I’d be back before breakfast. I hopped

in the shower and made the drive alone,” he said.

While driving back to Bridgton very early Saturday morning, Daniel stumbled upon a “horrific” crime. A local woman — Melissa

Scammon, who was walking to work — was under attack on the side of the roadway.

“No one was on the road (it was 4:30 a.m.). In the corner of my eye, I saw something in the ditch (across the road from Hayes True Value).

Maybe, I saw some feet?

Maybe, someone slipped and fell, so I turned around. As I got closer to True Value, I saw a guy on top of her. I got over there. He looked up. As he was getting off of her, I jumped out, ‘What are you doing? What are you doing?’

She’s screaming, ‘He’s trying to kill me.’ I told her to get in the vehicle,” Daniel recalled.

“I don’t know you,” Melissa said.

“I’m your best friend, let’s go. We’re going to get help,” Daniel responded.

Meanwhile, the alleged assailant — identified

by Bridgton Police as Jon Mitchell, 21, of Bridgton — had retreated.

“I looked up and he was looking right at me. It got really serious for me. Clearly, we GOOD SAMARITAN — Dan Valsecchi rescued a need to go right now because Bridgton woman from an attacker early Saturday RALLY, Page 4A

morning along Portland Road.

(Rivet Photo)

Panels reduced, Naples solar project ok’d

By Dawn De Busk Staff Writer NAPLES — The only way that members of the Naples Planning Board would warm up to the idea of a solar project off Route 35 is if the equipment could not be seen from Long Lake.

This particular solarenergy plan was approved with several conditions, including mitigating the noise from the inverters should it be louder than 50 decibels.

During the discussion, the property-owner who is seeking to develop her land for alternative energy expressed her frustration. Deborah Martin said she felt like the planning board was grilling the proj-

ect coordinators and giving them a more difficult time than those people involved in other projects.

In September, BWC Brandy Pond, LLC, the group seeking permission to put in a 19-acre solar farm at 281 Harrison Road came before the planning board after a site walk.

At that time, approval was denied because some of the equipment would be visible from Long Lake. More accurately, the site plan was sent back to the applicant for modifications to be in line with the town’s ordinance. That happened on Sept. 7.

The Naples Solar Energy Ordinance forbids projects in which the solar arrays

— or any other portion of solar-energy equipment — is visible from major bodies of water within the town’s boundaries.

On Dec. 7, BWC Brandy Pond presented a modified project with 1,000 less solar panels and new viewscape analysis that predicted the equipment would not be seen from the Causeway, any major roads or from any part of Long Lake. Also, the acreage being used shifted, skirting away from the uphill areas and going horizontal — to change the elevation above the lake.

“There is not much to look at — if there were, I wouldn’t be here,” according to BlueWave’s Managing Director of

Solar Development Alan Robertson.

On the television in the meeting room, he flipped through images from the viewscape analysis.

“From the Causeway, not visible. From Long Lake, not visible. From Pine Island, not visible,” he said.

Additionally, as was part of the original plan, there would be landscaping buffers between the abutters and the farm.

“The screening plan we are proposing is a staggered row of evergreens, non invasive, locally sourced, with a minimum of two years warranty,” Robertson said.

Ultimately, the board approved the solar energy project with several con-

‘Angel’ reunites photos, families

By Wayne E. Rivet Staff Writer LOVELL — When Kate Kelley visits antique shops, she always feels bad to find discarded family photos from years gone by.

“They don’t belong in a dusty box in an antique store,” said Kate, a resident of Attleboro, Mass.

Old photos, Kate believes, are treasures that should be cherished possessions of a family’s next generation.

Combining her longtime interest in genealogy along, an inquisitive mind and enjoyment of the “thrill of the hunt,” Kate embarked on a mission to rescue old photos and reunite them with family members.

A special education teacher in Plainville, Mass., Kate is known as the “Photo Angel.”

“It feels good to help someone piece together their family history,” she said.

Cody and Hannah Guilford of Lovell hope they possess some missing pieces of some families’ history puzzle.

“When we purchased the home, we started going through all the belongings to be sure there was nothing important before moving it/getting rid of it and discovered the photos,” Hannah said. “I didn’t want any sentimental items that family may not have had a chance to get to go to waste, so that’s when I reached out and Cody came across the items while renovating a historic home in Lovell.”

The Guilfords had heard about the Photo Angel project when Kate posted a message on the Fryeburg Community Facebook page regarding a photo — “Meet Laura (Hill) Charles (1874–1950), her husband Stephen Charles (1838–1912), and their son, Wellington Charles, aka “Duke” (1903–1980), of Fryeburg, Maine — she had purchased at an antique store in Sturbridge, Mass. and reunited it with a cousin living in North Carolina.

Kate and her husband, Brian, zipped up to Lovell and were thrilled to find wooden trunks filled with countless photos and documents.

“This generous couple donated two boxes chock full of labeled photos, yearbooks, mementos, vital records, etc. and they invited me to return to Lovell to check out some more of their finds!” Kate said. “I felt as though I had hit

PHOTO ANGEL — Kate Kelley of Attleboro, Mass. uses various Internet search engines to locate family members, who might be interested in retrieving long, last family photos which she has come into possession of.

the lottery as this was the largest treasure trove donated to The Photo Angel project to date!”

Kate has been intrigued by the life of Dr. Frank Hartman, whose personal items and photos are scattered amongst the Lovell trunk treasures.

“A newspaper clipping from The Seattle Times in 1964 states, ‘Dr. Hartman, a noted physiologist and the first student to receive a doctorate from the University of Washington, discussed his field, endocrinology, with specialists at the university today.’ I am eager to learn PHOTOS, Page 3A

ditions. Those conditions were: Prior to issuing a building permit, the company must present a decommissioning plan if the solar field doesn’t create electricity for 12 months. If any part of the solar equipment becomes visible, the company would mitigate the visibility either by lowering the panels or creating a landscaping berm. If the sound from the inverters is more than 50 decibels, hoods would be placed over the inverters. If there is any change of ownership, the amended site plan would come back to the Naples Board of Selectmen and/or the town manager. Also, the applicant must provide an annual stormwater review

to code enforcement office.

Prior to the vote, board members asked about the noise from inverters, the distance of the inverters from the closest abutter, a backup plan should the equipment become visible from the lake or road, and about the bond (insured money) backing up the cost of decommissioning the solar farm.

“Thirty (30) years from now the panels could have toxic waste, and the cost to remove them has skyrocketed,” Planning board member Larry Anton said.

Robertson said that the decommission plan has to be updated every five years, and the money set aside for SOLAR, Page 8A

By Wayne E. Rivet Staff Writer Change is on the horizon for the Greater Bridgton Lakes Region Chamber of Commerce.

Last week, a “For Sale” sign appeared on the chamber property, leading many residents to ask, “Well, where is the Chamber going?”

Chamber Board president Heidi Edwards explained that change is certainly on the table.

“The Chamber Board and new Executive Director have been working very hard over the past six months to make some significant changes to the operations of our organization, as well as improving upon our community relations and the effectiveness with which we are able to promote our member businesses,” Edwards said. “With that in mind, the board felt that a Main Street presence would be a great way to accomplish many of these things.”

Being a small, memberfunded organization, the Chamber runs on a very small budget that currently does not include a fund for updating or extra maintenance of the building, grounds, or other assets, Edwards pointed out.

“The sale of the building and move into a rented space will relieve us of the burden of many expenses such as plowing, lawn care, building and facilities maintenance, and system upgrades,” she said. “We feel that a move to Main Street will allow us much more visibility with which to promote our member businesses, as well as provide a more accessible place where folks might CHAMBER, Page 3A

Office for sale, move to Main St.

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

Page 2A, The Bridgton News, December 16, 2021

Area news

Hastings elected Fair president FRYEBURG — David Hastings III of Fryeburg has been elected president of Fryeburg Fair at the nonprofit’s annual meeting held on Dec. 4, 2021.

He replaces Roy Andrews, who has retired after 63 years with the Fair, the last 15 as president.

Hastings’ involvement with the Fair spans over 40 years starting in 1976. He spent two decades in the Entertainment department helping hire and book shows.

He also worked in the Midway department overseeing the relationship with Smokey’s Greatest Shows, the Fair’s carnival vendor. In 1998, he moved to the Finance Committee.

As is often the custom at Fryeburg Fair, Hastings III replaced his father, David Hastings II, as emcee of the Fair’s annual grand parade and the pig and calf scrambles. His father worked with the Fair for over 50 years and was involved until the time of his passing in 2010. He was the president of the Fair from 2002 to 2006 and was instrumental in building a foundation of strong leadership, prudent financial

management and a clear focus on showcasing agriculture and farming history.

“I learned all my pig scramble lines from my father! Those events are a load of fun,” he said.

Hastings is well known for conducting the “pig scramble shuffle” asking spectators to stand and move to the middle of the arena in order to allow more people to sit down. The scrambles are often standing room only. He also invites past pig scramble participants, all former third graders now up to 70 years old to stand and be recognized.

Hastings has lived in Fryeburg all his life. He graduated from Fryeburg Academy in 1968 and Bowdoin College in 1972 as a fifth-generation member of the Hastings family to do so. He graduated from Temple Law School in Philadelphia in 1975 and returned to Fryeburg to work for his father and uncle at Hastings Law Office, now Hastings Malia P.A. Hastings and his wife, Carol, a retired teacher, have four children — Jennie, Dan, Kate and Patrick — and three grandchil-

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Naples EMS leader resigns

By Dawn De Busk Staff Writer NAPLES — One of the full-time employees with the Naples Fire and Rescue Department (NFRD) announced his resignation this month.

Naples EMS Coordinator Lucien Gendron tendered his letter of resignation on Dec. 7, giving a one-month notice.

His last day will be Jan. 7, 2022.

“Over the next 30 days, I will make sure that the transition of the office goes as smooth as possible,” Gendron wrote.

Also, in his letter of resignation, he thanked Naples Town Manager John Hawley for his “guidance during my tenure as the EMS coordinator.”

Gendron has been with the NFRD since 2008. He stepped into the position of EMS coordinator in July 2018, according to Hawley.

Gendron took a job with the Town of Poland’s Fire and Rescue Department. Meanwhile, he will continue in the capacity of a per diem worker with the Town of Naples.

“Even though I am resigning as EMS coordinator, I will be staying on the department as a per diem firefighter/paramedic,” Gendron said in an email on Tuesday.

On Monday, the Naples board of Selectmen accepted the resignation. At that time, the personnel change was made public.

“He has taken a full-time job with another department,” Hawley said.

“Between an interim and the fire chief, the EMS duties will be shared,” he said.

Naples Fire Chief Justin Cox said that Mike Linteu will READY FOR ALL WEATHER is Bridgton resident act as interim EMS coordinator.

“This is temporary,” Chairman Jim Grattelo said.

Bruce Hancock as he heads to Hannaford grocery “During the budget process, we are going to propose new a store. new structure” for the fire and rescue department.

“We aren’t taking extra A company pickup truck money and putting it in the would not be included in coffers. We will be reducing personal property tax real estate taxes to be fair because an excise tax covers and equitable,” he said. that, he said.

“It should have been “The forklift at the maridone over the years. We just na is something that would caught up on it,” he said. be included in personal

By Dawn De Busk Yes, the items are A member of the audi- property tax because it’s not Staff Writer indoors. But, the humidity ence asked what items are part of excise tax,” he said.

“History is the interpre- and lack of heat are causconsidered personal propIn related business, the erty tax. town’s new business license tation of the significance ing damage to the relics, the photographs and the “It’s all the business goes into effect at the begin- that the past has for us.”

- Johan Huizinga paperwork that hold a key to equipment that isn’t already ning of the New Year.

NAPLES — The artifacts Naples’ past. taxed. If you own a barber “Businesses need to Brenda Leo, the direcshop, it is your chairs or license with town prior to stored inside the Naples Museum are at the mercy of tor of the Naples Visitors clippers,” Hawley said.

TAX, Page 3A the weather.

Center, whose office is in the same building as the museum, made a pitch to the Naples Board of Selectmen to put heat pumps in the upcoming budget for 2022.

“You want us to be in there and watch all the artiFull Service Ski Shop with Alpine Touring facts. The glue is drying out.

Telemark & NTN Gear & Accessories Things are falling apart,” Leo said. “We have all kinds of invaluable papers and information that we haven’t got a chance to get into. #112 PUMPS, Page 3A

property tax revaluation.

“The personal property tax revaluation has been completed,” Hawley stated.

“As you know, what prompted the revaluation was that the town couldn’t keep up with the year-toyear assessments of business equipment. Our real estate assessor was not contracted to do that work so we generally relied on businesses to supply their own property lists. It was not uncommon for us to get the forms that said, ‘Same as last year. Same as last year,’ ” he said.

“So the values never increased and much of the equipment was never taxed.

New inventory added each year was left off the list,” he said. “We didn’t have anyone checking.”

Once the numbers were compiled and tallied, the difference was astounding.

“Before the assessment, our property value was $5,006,072. After the revaluation we committed taxes at $16,297,819,” Hawley said.

That is a difference of $11,291,747.

“You can see what a little bit of lax in accountability can do to a tax valuation,” Hawley said.

These new numbers will lower the real estate value, he said.

Chairman Jim Grattelo spoke “It is important for the public to understand, basically, property-owners in the Town of Naples was subsidizing for businessowners,” Grattelo said.

Heat pumps to preserve relics

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By Dawn De Busk Staff Writer NAPLES—Elected officials accomplished a longstanding goal of finding a mechanism that encourages businesses to pay the personal property tax bill.

A business license that costs $10 will not be issued if a business is not current on its personal property tax.

Additionally, the Town of Naples contracted a company to perform a revaluation of personal property tax.

The result was an increase of more than $10,000,000 in the value of personal property tax, also known as business tax.

The personal property tax is different from real estate property tax. Personal property includes the items a business uses that are not already taxed. Another way that personal property tax differs from the property tax is that there is no tax lien process. However, it is legal to withhold a business license if a company is behind on its business tax.

On Monday night, during the Naples Board of Selectmen meeting, Naples Town Manager John Hawley reported on the personal

dren. Carol Hastings is also involved with Fryeburg Fair as an assistant in the Midway department.

Hastings says his favorite thing about the Fair is the people he works with: “One of my very favorite events is the draft horse show with the eight-horse hitches. It’s an incredibly great exhibition put on by very skilled and talented people devoted to these beautiful animals.”

“My plan going forward,” says Hastings, “is NEW PRESIDENT of Fryeburg Fair is David that we continue to support Hastings III of Fryeburg. the agricultural departments at Fryeburg Fair in every each person involved feels the pride and possible way. That’s what brings people satisfaction of running one of the greatest back year after year. You can go almost agricultural events in the country. Most anywhere in the country and if you men- importantly, I really want our people to tion Fryeburg, people say, ‘don’t they have have fun doing it.” a big fair there?’ I want every department If you want to get involved with Fryeburg (almost 50 of them) to think they’re the Fair, go to www.fryeburgfair.org, e-mail most important at the Fair. And I hope info@fryeburgfair.org or call 207-935-3268.

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Area news

December 16, 2021 The Bridgton News, Page 3A

‘Angel’ reunites photos, families (Continued from Page 1A) more about this fascinating man and his relatives!”

Kate said.

Kate discovered Lovell just recently.

“While I was helping my good friend with her Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) application, she proudly shared that several generations of her ancestors hailed from Fryeburg,” she said. “My family found the area to be absolutely breathtaking! The blanket of snow put us in the mood for Christmas and we reminisced about hiking to Mount Washington’s summit two years ago.”

A descendant of Gov. William Bradford, one of the original Plymouth settlers, as well as John Alcott, a Revolutionary War veteran, Kate is a DAR member.

So, how does Kate unlock the mysteries surrounding the old photos that enable her to find their rightful owners?

It starts with a name or other information on the back of the photograph.

Kate then uses online search platforms such as Ancestry.com and findagrave.com to locate descendants. In most cases, family members are thrilled to be reunited with old photos.

There are occasional, “not interested” responses, but that never deters Kate from tackling the next challenge.

“I begin by researching the photos and documents containing the most information. I have organized The Photo Angel project into a system with the following categories: ‘New,’ ‘Pending’ and ‘Challenges.’

The most challenging aspect of The Photo Angel project is when folks do not reply to my messages because they mistakenly believe that I am a spammer

or a scammer,” she said.

She has reached out to several Lovell project family members via genealogy websites, and currently awaiting their responses.

“I have acquired hundreds of photos and pieces of ephemera from countless antique stores, flea markets, and donations so I am a busy bee. I have a speaking engagement at a library in Rhode Island next month and for two upcoming DAR meetings, as well as an upcoming “Facebook Live” with a popular genealogy company,” she said.

“In addition, I have been invited to write articles for publications to include The Mayflower Quarterly. I am excited to share that The Photo Angel website will be available in the near future!”

In a recent Photo Angel Facebook post (she has over 6,000 members), Kate revealed that she had tracked down a relative in Missouri, who offered to distribute rescued Hartman photos and documents to the appropriate family members.

When asked what she considers her greatest reward, Kate, who spends about three hours a night on her hobby, said, “Hand delivering photos to excited family members is by far the most rewarding part of this project! One family invited me to their Thanksgiving dinner to express their gratitude and share stories about the people in the photographs that I had purchased at an antique store. Everyone involved had such a wonderful time that they invited me to join them again next year!”

She takes pride in knowing that she preserved some families’ histories by rescuing old photos and locating ancestors. In one case, she had a photo of a couple

Title snafu slows sale

DISCOVERY — While renovating their Lovell home, Hannah and Cody Guilford came upon this wooden truck, full of old photos which Kate Kelley will now try to track down family members to return them too.

from North Waterboro.

Through research, Kate located a grandniece. Kate later learned that because of a fire, the photo was the only existing picture of the woman’s great aunt and uncle.

“When I make a connection, it’s absolute joy,” she said. “It feels good to help someone piece together their family history.”

And her greatest disappointment? “Is when I find photos at antique stores and flea markets with no information on them. It is heartbreaking because the photographed are somebody’s loved ones and the images are lost to history.”

So, when she visits antique shops, Kate looks for photos with the most

identifiable information on them, which will greatly aid her in her searches.

In a recent TV interview, Kate showed an album with some empty slots on various pages. Those “holes” are success stories — a photo that has found its way home.

Heat pumps to preserve relics (Continued from Page 2A) Those papers are rolling up at the corners.”

“Right now, it is so cold it creates moisture. Then, when it gets warm, things start to mold,” she said.

When the museum is closed to the public, sometime after Labor Day, the heat is turned down to 50 degrees to conserve electricity.

Heat pumps are a very feasible option, Leo said.

“The heat pumps are good. They use them in museums all across the country. They can go into dry mode or add moisture if needed,” she said.

An expert in the Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Field was not available to answer questions that evening. It

Business tax hike

(Continued from Page 2A) Jan. 31,” Hawley said.

Chairman Grattelo commented.

“Again for the public, the purpose of this is so that we have the businesses registered in the town so that we know what exists. More importantly, some businesses haven’t paid the personal property tax. If a business has a back debt on personal property tax, the town is not allowed to have a lien,” he said. “If we create a business license, we are allowed not to give a business license if a business has not paid [its] personal property tax.”

was a representative from Dave’s World and he could not make it to Monday’s meeting.

The selectmen showed interest in gathering more information about the heat pumps.

The board meets again Jan. 10. The chairman asked her to invite someone from Dave’s World to that meeting. The vice-chair asked Leo to get more than one cost estimate.

Selectman Ted Shane spoke.

“I think you are in the right track,” he said.

He installed heat pumps in his home; and the units improved the air quality so much that he sleeps better, Shane said.

Caleb Humphrey, who was in the audience, attested to the cost savings from switching to heat pumps.

“I put a heat pump in my house a few years ago. The heat cost is down 60 percent,” he said. [The town] “could be saving a few thousand dollars a year.”

Naples Town Manager John Hawley said, “It has to be budgeted first. That’s the reason she (Leo) is asking now is so that we can budget it for next year.”

Chamber changes

(Continued from Page 1A) walk in, learn about the Chamber, ask about our members, find a business that they never knew about, and discover something new about the Greater Bridgton area.”

So, where will the Chamber call home? At the moment, plans continue to be worked on and an announcement will be forthcoming.

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By Dawn De Busk Staff Writer CASCO — Most people can register their vehicle at the town office where they live.

Or, they can register their mode of transportion Online.

However, not every town is set up to register work vehicles such as dump trucks or haulers.

The Town of Casco has just expanded its Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) authority level. By doing so, people with large trucks can register or re-register those at the town hall in Casco.

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l i n e es n i

So, the next time you look at old photos in a family album, check to see if the photos include names — it could ultimately save them some day from sitting in a dusty box on an antique shop shelf rather than part of a family talk about ancestors.

By Dawn De Busk Staff Writer NAPLES — If all goes as planned, the Town of Naples might have an early Christmas gift.

The sale might be finalized on a parcel that the town acquired through the tax lien process. Once the land is in private hands, the town will receive revenue in the form of property tax.

As it stands, the land does not generate any tax revenue.

The Naples Board of Selectmen agreed to put the land known as the Destinee Woods property on the market.

However, a snafu surfaced with the title, according to Naples Town Manager John Hawley. On Monday, he updated the board on the status of the land sale.

“The parcel we had listed for sale is currently under contract. We were unable to close. We ran into an issue with the title company,” Hawley said.

There were two different site plans that had been approved, he said.

“The original subdivision was approved in 2006, and then a condominium plan for the same subdivision was approved in 2008, which supersedes the previous subdivision plan.

However, when the condominium plan was approved and then recorded, it was ineffective because the LLC that achieved the condominium plan was not the same LLC in ownership of the subdivision plan. They have to be one and the same,” Hawley said.

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Early Friday morning, Bridgton resident and military veteran, Melissa Scammon was assaulted in a vicious attack while walking to her job at Hannafords. She sustained multiple injuries, including a broken arm and eye socket and will require surgery to repair her injuries. She will likely be unable to work for some time.

It is events such as this where our community can come together and make a tremendous difference.

A GoFundMe page has been set up for Melissa if you would like to help by donating there.

In addition, Bridgton Storage and Consignment is committed to assisting Melissa in her recovery and will be donating $1,000 to help her during this most difficult time. We will be accepting donations, in the form of checks to Melissa Scammon that can be dropped off at 293 Portland Road in Bridgton.

Please help by donating to this most worthwhile cause.

Thank you and Merry Christmas

Bridgton Storage & Consignment

Page 4A, The Bridgton News, December 16, 2021

Bridgton Police Department

Citizens rally to help local woman

(Continued from Page 1A) I didn’t know if he was coming back,” Daniel said. “At that point, I don’t know what was going through my mind.

People have told me it was pretty dangerous, he might ACCUSED — Jon have had a gun. It was all Mitchell, 21, of Bridgton adrenaline at that point. I faces multiple charges thought I was going to help including aggravated a lady who had slipped on the assault and robbery. snowbank. You don’t think about anything other than get this lady out of that situation.”

Daniel got Melissa in the car, pulled a U-turn, and called 9-1-1. They waited for police in the Hannaford parking lot.

“It was crazy. I never thought I would see something like that. It was utter shock,” he said. “I am sure glad I turned around.”

Police and a county K-9 searched the woods and nearby area. The suspect was seen jogging on Portland Road, and was arrested. Mitchell has been charged with aggravated assault and robbery. He was transported to the Cumberland County Jail.

Scammon, 48, suffered a shattered cheekbone, broken nose and broken arm. She was treated at Maine Medical Center.

“I’m heartbroken for her. From the minutes I’ve known her, and the injuries she sustained, I cannot believe how tough she is. The only thing she complained about was her eye being hurt and she couldn’t see. The brutality of the crime took me back,” Daniel said in an interview with The News Tuesday afternoon.

“She just kept telling me that I was her guardian angel.”

Word of Daniel’s Good Samaritan effort spread quickly on social media.

“It’s a little overwhelming, very humbling. I didn’t stop for an award or any attention. I’d like to really highlight the importance of the Police Department. Not just this community but communities nationwide. When I came up on that difficult situation — the most difficult of my life to date — I knew that all I needed to do was to get her in the vehicle somehow and get a call out and the cops would be there in seconds.

That speaks volumes,” he said. “People don’t appreciate that enough. I took comfort knowing I needed to only do one simple thing, and the cops would be there and my job would be done. They’re the real heroes. Melissa is a hero. She stood up for herself and fought back. Ultimately, she saved her own life. All I did was be at the right place at the right time.”

At Tuesday night’s Bridgton Selectmen’s meeting, Chief of Police Phil Jones presented Daniel with the “Lifesaving Award.” Chief Jones commended Daniel for “saving Melissa’s life with his action” and “doing the right thing.” His “bravery and compassion…saved a community member’s life,” the chief said.

“He was a hero that morning,” Chief Jones said. “Melissa Scammon is a role model for all of us.

After receiving the plaque, Daniel reached out to Melissa, who was sitting in the front row with her fiancé, Kevin Benoit.

The two hugged. They then had a photograph taken with Chief Jones and Bridgton Police Department officers.

While Daniel Valsecchi appreciates all the kind words he has received, he sees his actions not as heroic, but simply the right thing to do.

“Growing up, me and my dad always checked on people, whether they needed help with a flat tire. Nine times out of 10, they didn’t need help, but you never know that one time.

It took 32 years of stopping between me and my dad that the one time out of 10 some really, really needed help. I’ll continue to stop if I see someone needing help. I just pray to God that I don’t have to deal with something like that again,” he said. “I just sprung into action. I would hope that if that was my mother, cousin, wife, daughter, someone would be kind enough to help them. It’s a crazy world.”

Community responds Area people first were shocked by the attack.

Then, they turned their attention to financially assisting Melissa Scammon, who is an Air National Guard veteran, to get back on her feet.

A GoFundMe drive reached over $21,000 at press time.

Meanwhile, another fundraising effort is looking to buy Melissa a car.

“It’s sad that in our little town, we may not be safe walking to work!” a person commented.

For her birthday, Michelle Mowatt decided to lead a charge to raise money to purchase the vehicle. “Let’s try to raise money for her to maybe purchase a vehicle so she doesn’t have to walk at 4:30 in the morning… I do not know her personally but I’ve seen her around and she’s always so friendly.”

The Lopez family along with Macdonald Motors will match money raised to purchase the vehicle, Mowatt reported on social media. As of Tuesday, that effort had raised $1,340 of the targeted $5,000.

“Seeing the amount of money raised so far warms my heart. The community is reacting in a way that brings me to tears. The community has been phenomenal,” Daniel noted.

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These items appeared on the Bridgton Police Department blotter (this is a partial listing): Monday, December 6 10:01 a.m. Report of vehicle tailgating and passing on Portland Road; unable to locate vehicle.

11:03 a.m. Minor motor vehicle crash in Hannaford parking lot.

2:25 p.m.

Assist Department of Health and Human Services with open investigation.

10:01 p.m. Disturbance at Lumberyard Drive; male moved along.

10:02 p.m. Disturbance on North Bridgton Road.

11:01 p.m. Report of unknown male entering residence on Forest Avenue; unfounded.

Tuesday, December 7 8:32 a.m. Minor motor vehicle crash at Dunkin Donuts.

11:06 a.m. Assist United Ambulance on Mitchell Lane.

1:29 p.m. Littering (box spring) on Harrison Road.

1:59 p.m. Minor motor vehicle crash on Elm Street.

3:32 p.m.

Citizen inquired if a warrant for her arrest had been issued.

4:40 p.m. Report of several trucks “doing burnouts” on Highland Road, near the public beach.

5:32 p.m. Assist hospital staff with “aggressive” patient, causing a disturbance.

Wednesday, December 8 10:19 a.m. Assist fire department at structure fire on Kansas Road.

11:48 a.m. Patient causing a disturbance at hospital Emergency Department.

1:35 p.m. Vehicle off the road at intersection of Knights Hill Road and Campbell drive.

2:23 p.m. Officer assisted

hospital staff with an “uncooperative” patient.

4:23 p.m. Two vehicle crash on South High Street; one subject issued summonses for attaching false license plates and operating without a license.

Thursday, December 9 2:34 p.m. Juvenile problem on Wayside Avenue.

6:41 p.m. Suspicious vehicle on Monk Road.

8:15 p.m. Welfare check on Ring Landing Road.

Friday, December 10 4:45 a.m. Medical emergency on Main Street.

5:19 a.m. Unwanted phone calls (disorderly conduct) on Academy Lane.

5:34 a.m. Child custody dispute; subject referred to the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Office.

4:14 p.m. Motor vehicle crash with minor injuries at intersection of South Bridgton Road and Ingalls Road.

7:16 p.m. Report of unknown person entering

South Bay Road residence captured on surveillance camera; investigation found subject was a family member.

11:19 p.m. Assist fire department with outside fire on North High Street.

Saturday, December 11 8:22 a.m. Welfare check on Castle Lane.

9:18 a.m. Assist with traffic control at funeral service on South High Street.

10:37 a.m. Mental health check on South High Street.

10:48 a.m. Motor vehicle crash on Portland Road; no injuries reported.

12:08 p.m. Motor vehicle crash on Knights Hill Road; no injuries reported.

1:52 p.m. Disturbance on Main Street; male issued trespass notice and summons for disorderly conduct.

2:31 p.m. Subject allegedly “disturbing” customers at a Main Street location and “moved along” by police.

3:30 p.m. Welfare check on Harrison Road.

7:17 p.m. Man suffering from mental health issues at Main Street business, assisted by police.

8:41 p.m. Caller reported receiving multiple harassing text messages from unknown numbers.

9:20 p.m. Assist Fryeburg Police on Hemlock Bridge Road.

Sunday, December 12 9:44 a.m. Request for assistance for poor road conditions on Holly Loop.

11:14 a.m. Citizen dropped off “goodies” for officers.

7:12 p.m. Suspicious person on Portland Road; contact made with male, who was reportedly “impaired,” vehicle towed.

7:26 p.m. Possible prowler at Sam Ingalls Road home.

Monday, December 13 12:06 a.m. Motor vehicle crash with personal injury at intersection of Portland Road and Otter Pond Road.

These items appeared on the Fryeburg Police Department log (this is a partial listing): Monday, December 6 3:30 p.m. Suspicious activity on Buzzell Drive.

Tuesday, December 7 7:50 p.m. Assist citizen on Willards Way. 11:12 p.m. Radar detail on Bridgton Road.

Wednesday, December 8 1:38 a.m. Assist citizen on Main Street.

1:55 a.m. Burglary alarm on Pepi Lane.

10 a.m. Fraud complaint on West Fryeburg Road.

4:31 p.m. Vehicle off the road at intersection of West Fryeburg Road and Little Chatham Road.

4:47 p.m. Motor vehicle crash on Main Street.

10 p.m. Alleged sexual assault on Drift Road investigated.

Thursday, December 9 10 a.m. Motor vehi-

cle crash at intersection of Portland Street and Pine Street.

1:55 p.m. Assist Fryeburg Rescue on Bridgton Road.

Friday, December 10 3:59 a.m. Assist Fryeburg Rescue on Smith Street.

10 a.m. Peace officer detail on Main Street.

12:50 p.m. Assist Fryeburg Rescue at nursing home.

5:37 p.m. Motor vehicle crash on West Fryeburg Road.

9:51 p.m. Welfare check on Lovell Road.

Saturday, December 11 9:02 a.m. Vehicle off the road at intersection of Cornshop Road and West Fryeburg Road.

9:45 a.m. Theft report on Ice House Road.

12:05 p.m. Assist citizen on River Street.

9:05 p.m. Assist Fryeburg Rescue on Main Street.

9:20 p.m. Domestic disturbance on Hemlock Bridge Road.

Sunday, December 12 7:04 a.m. Burglar alarm on Carter Hill Road.

9:27 a.m. Animal complaint on Fish Street.

4:44 p.m. Responding to a disturbance on Stuart Street, police charged Alan M. Dyer Jr., 31, of Fryeburg with domestic violence aggravated assault, obstructing report of a crime and violating conditions of release.

8:40 p.m. Harassment complaint on Pequawket Lane.

10:19 p.m. Motor vehicle crash on Main Street.

Monday, December 13 3:10 p.m. Motor vehicle crash at intersection of Bridgton Road and Pine Street.

5:24 p.m. Suspicious

activity on Chautauqua Road.

5:28 p.m. Motor vehicle crash on Portland Street.

9:42 p.m. Disturbance on Smith Street; peace restored.

10:37 p.m. Assist county deputy on Notch Road in Hiram; unfounded.

LIFESAVING AWARD was presented by Bridgton Police Chief Phil Jones to Dan Valsecchi for his “heroic” efforts in helping and getting assault victim Melissa Scammon (front) away from harm and to a safe spot. (Photo by Peter Dumont)

Fryeburg Police Department

We Are Growing!

We are happy to announce that we will be adding two locations to our storage business in 2022. We have begun working on our Fryeburg facility and will be open in early summer. We will begin work on our Lovell facility in the spring with an anticipated opening in late summer 2022. We will be changing our name to Lake Region Safe Storage, LLC to reflect our regional presence.

We would like to take this opportunity to thank all of our loyal customers, Facebook followers and consignors for your loyalty over the past four years. We have sincerely enjoyed getting to know all of you and we are thankful we were able to provide the community with a place to buy and sell quality furniture.

It is with great sadness that we have made the difficult decision to close the consignment store effective December 31 to focus on expanding the storage business.

We will continue to offer storage supplies for your moving needs. We still have items for sale so please stop by the see us.

We wish you a very Merry Christmas and a great New Year. Please continue to follow us and we will keep you updated on our progess services we will be offeting.

THANK YOU ALL, Bridgton Storage and Consignment

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Car watch

Maine State Police along with other law enforcement agencies in Maine and New Hampshire are investigating a large number of vehicle burglaries that have occurred in the past two weeks in Oxford, York, and BURGLARY, Page 7A

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Regional Sports

December 16, 2021 The Bridgton News, Page 5A

Raider winter previews GIRLS’ BASKETBALL Head Coach: Billie L’Heureux Top returning athletes: Seniors Brooke Emery, Shelby Purslow, Emma Rydman, Emily Walker and Adriana Mas Soto.

Top newcomer: Junior Sydney Shaw.

Other roster members: Camden Jones and Katy McIntyre — both injured (seniors), Ally Southwick (Jr.), Maya Mahan and Jilyan Bryne (Soph.), Cammi and Mercedes Camacho (Jr.) What do you feel are the strengths of the team? Strong leadership and a tight bond.

Areas you will need to work on? Confidence and losing the fear of making a mistake.

To be successful, the team will need to… Play with confidence, strong defense and take advantage of what the other team is giving us, and box out/rebound.

As a coach, what do you see as your biggest challenge? Being in Class A, which is an extremely competitive conference, playing over Christmas vacation when some players leave to go home.

What are you most interested to see from this team? I am curious to see what the year will bring. The team is very talented and is eager to work hard and improve every day.

Opening Night: Greely’s Chelsea Graiver knocked down four 3-pointers and scored a game-high 22 points as the Rangers beat the Raiders 51-43 at Fryeburg Academy. Brooke Emery paced the Raiders with 16 points while Sydney Shaw went 6-of-7 from the foul line to finish with 10 points. Other FA scorers were: Emily Walker 8 points (pair of 3-pointers), Emma Rydman 3, Maya Mahan 2, Ally Southwick 2 and Shelby Purslow 2. FA shot 16-of26 from the foul line.

Up Next: The Raiders host Freeport on Friday at 7 p.m. and Leavitt on Tuesday at 7 p.m.

BOYS’ BASKETBALL Head Coach: Dan Thomas Top returning athletes: Bobby Hallam (Senior), Will Hallam (Junior), Gunnar Saunders (Sophomore), Liam Quinn (Senior), Roy Mugabe (Senior), Camden Johnson (Junior).

Top Newcomers: Ben Vlug (Senior), Geri Daiu (Senior), Boone Douglass (Sophomore), Jordan Zerner (Junior).

Other roster members: Jordan Dutton (Sophomore), Bryce Richardson (Sophomore), Jaden Victor (Senior).

Strengths of the team: “Our depth is a huge strength of ours.

We have a lot of guys ready to play big minutes for us this year. We have some really strong defensive players and some guys who can really shoot it from deep,” firstyear Coach Dan Thomas reports.

To be successful this team will need to: Communicate on defense, RAIDER, Page 6A

DRIVING THE LANE, Lake Region guard Abby Lavoie.

TAKING IT STRONG TO THE HOOP is Poland’s Allie Ferland, who just is able to get the shot over a block attempt by Lake Region’s Kasey Johnson during Friday’s season opener.

(Rivet Photos)

Knights thwart Lakers’ fourth quarter comeback

By Wayne E. Rivet Staff Writer Entering the season opener, Coach Paul True figured his Lakers had to answer two questions if they were to knock off the Poland Knights.

One, who — other than senior Shelby-Lynne Sheldrick — would step up and be a scoring option.

Two, how would the Lakers respond in a tight game and could they make enough big plays to pull out a win?

The Laker girls proved they had heart and grit, erasing a 12-point deficit to close within a 3-point bucket with 3:48 left in regulation. But, the offense disappeared, and the Knights close the game with a 13-0 run to claim a 39-23 victory at Nutting Gym. Sheldrick netted 11 points, but no other Laker scored more than 4. On

the other side of ledger, Gabbi Bolduc paced a balanced Knight attack with 10 points, while Emma Bunyea chipped in 8 and Allie Ferland 7 points.

LR started the fourth quarter with a 5-0 spurt as Sheldrick made a nifty move to score in the paint, and then converted a giveand-go as freshman guard Margo Tremblay threaded a pass through the Knight defense for a layup. Guard Bri Sargent converted on 1-of-2 foul shots to make it 26-23, and the Lakers had a chance to inch closer by grabbing an offensive rebound but were unable to capitalize.

Left all alone out on the left wing, Allie Ferland sparked the end-of-the-game closeout for the Knights when she knocked down a 3-point shot with 2:48 left.

With Emma Bunyea

blocking two Laker shots, the Knights cashed in as Atlantis Martin banked a shot off the glass and Bunyea cooly drained a baseline jumper to push the margin to 10.

The LR comeback was not to be.

Slow start With scoring guard Melissa Mayo out due to a knee injury, the Lakers will need to develop other offensive options.

Poland worked the ball inside to open up a 7-2 lead, but Sheldrick connected on a 3-pointer after some good ball movement to free an open look. The Knights responded with two more inside hoops to take an 11-5 first quarter lead.

Lake Region attacked the lane, earning 12 trips to the foul line in the second quarter. But, LR shooters made just 5 shots — those were

FOLLOWING THROUGH on a 3-point attempt is Lake Region senior Shelby-Lynne Sheldrick as Poland’s Emma Bunyea attempts a block. the only points of the frame, as the Knights took a 22-10 halftime lead.

In the third, the Lakers ramped up its defense with better pressure coming from guards Bri Sargent, Abby Lavoie and Margo Tremblay.

The result, eight Knight turnovers. Tremblay canned her first varsity 3-pointer showing a quick trigger and

senior Liz Smith, who made her presence felt in the paint with six rebounds in the quarter, tallied at the end of the frame to close the gap to 24-18.

They got close, but the comeback stalled.

For the Lakers, Bri Sargent had 4 points, Liz Smith 3, Margo Tremblay 3 and Elle Hall 2.

Lake Region winter sports previews

GIRLS’ BASKETBALL Head Coach: Paul True Top returning athletes: Seniors Shelby-Lynn Sheldrick, Elle Hall, Liz Smith, Bri Sargent, Vanessa Stone and Becca Caron.

Top newcomers: Sophomore Abby Lavoie and freshman Margo Tremblay.

Other roster members: Juniors Carly Dyer, Olivia England, Lizzie Brewer and Melissa Mayo; Sophomores Ava Smith and Kasey Johnson.

What do you feel are the strengths of the team?

Chemistry.

Areas you will need to work on? Confidence and organization.

To be successful, the team will need to… Score, rebound and limit turnovers.

As a coach, what do you see as your biggest challenge? Taking care of the ball and finding a consistent scorer to help Shelby.

What are you most interested to see from this team? See if they learn how to win close games.

Opening Night: See game story

Up Next: The Lakers travel to Yarmouth on Saturday for a 2:30 p.m. game, and then go to Sacopee Valley on Tuesday for a 6:30 p.m. contest.

BOYS’ BASKETBALL Head Coach: Ryan Martin Top returning athletes: Seniors Jacob Stone and Noah Duprey, and junior Jacob Chadbourne.

Top newcomers: Freshmen Jackson Libby and Brock Gibbons.

Other roster members: Seniors Grady Garland and Jac Mageles; Sophomores Wesley Martin and Evan Duprey.

What do you feel are the strengths of the team? Push the ball well, shoot well and play together.

Areas you will need to work on? Still need to work on our team defense, being in right positions, communicating and rotating correctly.

To be successful, the team will need to… We will need to play to our strengths and push the ball, we will need to defend well and rebound and if we do all

this and shoot well on top of it then I think we will be a tough team to beat.

As a coach, what do you see as your biggest challenge? We have a lot of players who have not had a whole lot of varsity experience. We will make young mistakes, but the group is extremely coachable and wants to get better and better.

What are you most interested to see from this team? Interested to see if we can put it all together on both sides of the ball. We are a quiet group, but we play with a lot of energy. It is a

very fun team to watch play.

Opening Night: With four players reaching double digit scoring, the Lakers held off Poland 72-71 Friday night on the Knights’ court.

Noah Duprey tossed in 22 points, including six 3-pointers while Jacob Stone netted 20 points (two 3-pointers) to lead the Lakers, who recorded 10 treys. Jacob Chadbourne added 13 (two treys) while Jackson Libby scored 11 points. Evan Duprey had 4 points and Wesley Martin 2.

Hunter Gibson of Poland lead all scorers with 35 (four 3-pointers), while Hayden

Christener added 19 points (five 3-pointers).

“We shot very well. We were 10-of 24-from three.

They shot even better! They were 13-of-24 from three,” Coach Martin said. “We stayed composed even when they kept making runs. It was a game of runs. We did a nice job taking care of the basketball, but the big difference was that we out-rebounded them by 15.

I thought we played pretty good defensively, they made a lot of shots.”

Coach Martin added, “I like this team’s resilience and their work ethic and just how coachable they are.

They really want to be a good team.”

Up Next: The Lakers host Yarmouth Friday night at 7 p.m. and Sacopee Valley on Monday night at 6:30 p.m.

ALPINE SKIING Coaches: Scott Davis, Kurt Berger Top returning athletes: Zack Vogel (Jr), Ashley Pelletier (Soph) and Lauren Roy (Soph).

PREVIEWS, Page 6A

Page 6A, The Bridgton News, December 16, 2021

Area sports

Raider winter previews

(Continued from Page 5A) create for their teammates and limit turnovers.

As a coach, what do you see as your biggest challenge? “As a coach my biggest challenge is being a new coach to this conference so I do not know as much about programs going into games as other coaches might,” Coach Thomas said. “But, I consider myself lucky to be coaching this great group of guys that love the game and want to improve.”

What are you most interested to see from this team?

I am most interested to see how much better this team will be in January and February after we have been playing together for a while. I love the pace we play at and the effort our guys play with night in and night out.

Opening Night: The Raiders opened well on the road in Cumberland Friday night, taking a 15-13 lead over Greely. But, FA had a tough time slowing down Andrew St. Hilaire, who got hot in the second quarter, scoring 11 of the team’s 17 points and finished with a game-high 28 points in the Rangers’ win, 69-63.

Fryeburg was outscored by 10 in the second frame, but bounced back with a solid third quarter, cutting the deficit by four points with a 21-17 run. But, the teams played nearly even over the final quarter with Greely holding a 22-20 edge.

Gunnar Saunders was high scorer for the Raiders with 20 points, while Will Hallam chipped in 14 points. Ben Vlug netted 11 points, while Bobby Hallam scored 8, Jordan Zerner 3, Geri Daui 3, Bryce Richardson 2 and Boone Douglass 2.

Up Next: The Raiders travel to Freeport on Friday at 7 p.m. and visit Leavitt Tuesday at 6:30 p.m.

CROSS COUNTRY SKIING Head Coach: John Weston Girls’ Roster: Senior Alanna Nataluk; juniors Lily Amazeen and Kacey-Jane Clark; sophomores Jiwon Choi and Isabel Macht.

Boys’ Roster: Juniors Andy Irwin, Isaac TwombleyWiser, Chris Kwon, Gabe Lounsbury and Artoghrul Rashid; freshmen Quinn Hagerty and Owen Reinbach.

Outlook: Coach Weston sees Alanna Nataluk will be one of the best X-C skiers in Maine, while for the boys, he wouldn’t be surprised if the two freshmen — Hagerty and Reinbach — quickly rise to the top. “Both skied in middle school and are solid overall athletes,” Coach Weston said. “Overall challenges for the season will be the usual ones like consistency of snow and training, and the ‘new-usual’ like COVID protocols and regulations.

Skiing is certainly fortunate that, at the moment, we can train and compete without needing masks — but that can change at any time.”

WRESTLING Head Coach: Chad Smith Top returning athletes: Seniors Job Fox and Graham Blood.

Top newcomers: Eric Yoo (Junior), Joseph Fusco (Sophomore), and Fisher Plessinger (Freshman).

Other roster members: Seniors Danny Darby, Lenny Foe Essissima, Alex Joubert, Maria Jurgova, Issei Martirosyan, Juan Villarevia, Yongjin Yoo, Yongseok Yoo; Juniors Hayden Fox, Yuchan Jeong, Anna Plessinger; Sophomores Minjun Choi, Mingang Kim, Mingeun Kim, Louie Shin; Freshmen Beckett Joas and Danha Park.

What do you feel are the strengths of the team?

Work ethic and being fundamentally sound.

Areas you will need to work on? As a whole the team is very green and this season will be a first for most.

To be successful, the team will need to… Focus on technique, make fundamentals a priority, and have fun.

As a coach, what do you see as your biggest challenge? I see my biggest challenge is building confidence.

What are you most interested to see from this team?

Growth in the sport of wrestling.

By Madelyn Litz Adult Ed Director As the holiday season fast approaches, the staff at Lake Region and Fryeburg Area Adult Education wants to wish all of you a happy, healthy, and prosperous New Year!

Everyone has been challenged by all that’s happening around us over the past couple of years, and maybe it’s time to take the time to set some goals for the coming new year. Remember, we have some fun classes to get you out and about, classes to help you finish your secondary education, or support to help you make TIGHT COVERAGE IN THE LANE by Lake plans for the training or eduRegion senior forward Liz Smith against a Poland cation you need to advance player during Friday’s season opener. (Rivet Photo) in the workplace.

So, think about us as 2022 rolls in. Check out our catalog which is planned to be online on Jan. 23. We have a great selection of classes planned to get you through winter and into the spring that is sure to come.

Happy Holidays to all who support our program — we are truly thankful for your support and participation in our programming!

To be successful, the team will need to… Be confident in all disciplines and conditions, focus on each run at each race, to stay focused and work hard all season.

As a coach, what do you see as your biggest challenge? Overcoming the loss of last year’s seniors. Our boys team currently has three athletes so we will be unable to post points as a team. Hope we can continue to grow and develop our var-

sity team from the middle school level.

What are you most interested to see from this team? The ongoing development and success of our girls’ team and excited to see what Zack Vogel can accomplish this year as a junior.

Opening Race: Monday, Jan. 3 at 5:15 p.m. at Shawnee Peak; giant slalom against Yarmouth, Fryeburg Academy, Cape Elizabeth, Gray-NG, Freeport and Greely.

Lake Region winter sports previews

(Continued from Page 5A) Top newcomers: Laura Dutton is the only freshman joining the varsity team.

“She has a passion for skiing and has shown great promise at the Middle School level,” Coach Berger said.

Other roster members: Reannah Dingley (Jr), Holly Duigan (Sr), Jacob Gilmore (Sr), Ezra Grondlund (Jr), Lyla Levesque (Soph) and Emily Rock (Jr).

What do you feel are the strengths of the team?

A core group of skiers who have a genuine passion and love for the sport. Zack Vogel has experienced a high level of success at the high school level and has developed into a real team leader. The girls’ team is anchored by Lauren Roy and Ashley Pelletier and it has depth.

Areas you will need to work on? Always building on fundamentals and confidence in the slalom discipline.

BUILDING 40+ YEARS IN THE LAKES REGION AREA

RAIN FAILED TO DAMPEN THE SPIRITS of those who attended the Music on Main Saturday night, listening to holiday tunes by the Don Campbell Band. There was a strong showing despite less than perfect weather conditions.

(Rivet Photos) TF24

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Calendar of Events

Thursday, December 16 Drive-Through Community Kettle, hosted by the Bridgton-Lake Region Rotary Club, at the Bridgton Community Center on Depot Street in Bridgton from 4 to 5 p.m. or until the food runs out. Rotarian and chef, Nick Orgo of MANE Catering and Stella’s on the Square, will be preparing this meal with Rotary helpers. Everyone is welcome. The meal is free to the public. Donations are gratefully accepted. All donations will be used to fund future community projects.

Fridays, December 17 Parent Night Out, sponsored by the Bridgton Recreation Department, 6 to 10 p.m. at Town Hall. Each TF23

date, $25 first child, $10 each additional child, K to Grade 6. Dinner, games, arts and crafts, physical activity, movie and popcorn.

Register: https://bridgtonmaine.org/bridgton-recreation Saturday, December 18 Christmas Community Celebration at 2 p.m. at the South Bridgton Congregational Church on Fosterville Road in Bridgton.

Musical event, goodies, hot drinks and birthday cake.

No admission fee.

Music, merriment and crafting at the Naples Public Library from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Texas Hold’em. The Harrison Lions Club will be holding their Texas Hold’em

Tournament at the Lions’ Den. The Den is in the back of the Block Building on Main Street in Harrison.

There will be a $60 entry fee. Doors will open at 12 p.m. with a start time of 1 p.m. Please bring your masks.

Tree Lighting rescheduled for the town of Waterford at 4 p.m.

Sunday, December 19 Winter Lantern Parade at Sebago Elementary Schoolyard, 4 p.m. Welcome the lengthening days with light, song, and community. Walk along a short, easy path with lanterns and luminaria. You are encouraged to bring a lantern to carry (battery powered only – no live flames). At the end of the path, warm up with songs, hot chocolate, and sweet treats! Everyone

is welcome! Sponsored by SPICE (Sebago Partners for Community Education) and Sebago PTC (Parent Teacher Council). FMI call 787-2679.

Finnish American Heritage Society of Maine will hold their monthly meeting at 2 p.m. at 8 Maple Street, West Paris. A brief business meeting will be followed by the group Tunnen Iloa, which will present a Christmas music program playing the national instrument of Finland, the kantele. The public is invited to attend.

Thursday, December 23 Walk-in vaccination clinic will be held at the Bridgton Community Center from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. First vaccine, second vaccine and boosters — Moderna or Johnson & Johnson — available.

Area news

December 16, 2021 The Bridgton News, Page 7A

Title snafu slows Naples land sale (Continued from Page 3A) “Several properties were purchased between the subdivision approval and the approval of the condo plan, but [there were] no sales after,” he said.

“The issue stemmed in that the clean-up of the ineffective condominium plan needed to be completed before the title companies could offer clear titles upon selling,” he said.

“The planning board will hear this case at their meeting on Dec. 21 and assuming they nullify the condominium plan and reinstate the subdivision plan, this will satisfy the title companies. And if that happens we will close on the sale on Dec. 23,” Hawley said.

Going through the nullification process will help tto sell the remaining parcels.

Beat the Blues

Recognizing that many people struggle with depression during the holidays and winter months, NAMI Maine offers several online and in-person support groups for people with mental health challenges and their family members.

NAMI Maine support

MAKING LANTERNS — Sebago Elementary School students in art class make lanterns for the upcoming Holiday Lantern Parade set 4:30 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 19, sponsored by PTC and SPICE. The public is welcome to attend.

groups are peer led and provide an opportunity to share experiences and gain support from other group members. NAMI’s support groups are unique because they follow a structured model to ensure that everyone in the group has an BLUES, Page 8A

Calendar of Events

Storage units spur setback talk

By Dawn De Busk Staff Writer NAPLES — The area of Naples that has been commercially developed in the past five years has another proposal going before the planning board: self storage units.

The plan calls for a storage facility on “a five-

acre site directly across the street from Dunkin’ Donuts on Route 302,” according to Civil Engineer Dustin Roma, the owner of DM Roma Consulting Engineers.

The plan is still in the early stages and some details like the placement of the buildings is still evolving.

“The gable ends of the

building would face the road. We can design the building so no doors face the roadway,” Roma said.

On Dec. 7, the Naples Planning Board heard the sketch plan for self-storage buildings that would be located off Roosevelt Trail near the Route 11 junction.

The parcel is owned by

(Continued from Page 3A) Board of Selectmen meeting on Tuesday night.

“This changes the Bureau of Motor Vehicle level of what we can do at the town office,” Casco Town Manager Anthony “Tony” Ward said.

Ward gave kudos to Town Clerk Penny Bean, who realized this was an option, took charge contacted the BMV and then lined up employee

trainings so that people in the office could to do this type of vehicle registration.

“People with work trucks used to have to go to other communities to register their truck. We now have the ability to register all trucks. Any commercial business with dump truck or large truck can now go to our community,” Ward said.

Before this week, Casco

residents had to go to Windham or Naples for this service.

“This is another one of those things that is a nobrainer, especially since Penny has taken the initiative to get the staff trained,” said Selectman Robert MacDonald.

Yes to truck registrations

• Don’t leave vehicles running unoccupied • Always lock vehicle doors and take the keys with you when not in use, even in your driveway • Do don’t leave personal items in plain sight • Remove valuables including firearms • At night, always park your vehicle in a well-lit and visible place • Don’t leave personal information in your car.

What to do if your vehicle is burglarized: Call the police and report the incident as soon as possible; if you see any suspicious activity, call the police immediately.

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(Continued from Page 4A) Cumberland Counties, along with the N.H. lake regions.

The majority of these crimes have occurred overnight and all of the vehicles targeted have been cars with vehicle doors left unlocked.

In several of these cases credit cards, cash, and small electronics were stolen.

Police are urging citizens to lock their car doors and remove any items of value.

These break-ins are preventable and with the community’s help, police are confident they will see a decrease in the numbers of car burglaries.

Burglary prevention tips for vehicles:

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Jarod Robie. Not much has been done to the land thus far.

“This site is pretty much all wooded. There is an existing curb cut with a gate on it, where we are proposing the driveway entrance,” Roma said.

The storage facility would require no running water or septic system, he said. It would have low-level lighting mounted between the buildings. There would be no heat in the metal buildings. No sprinkler system would be required.

One of the topics that came up during the discussion was building setbacks. In recent years, the Ordinance Review Committee (ORC) amended STORAGE, Page 8A

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(Continued from Page 6A) Saturday, January 1 Texas Hold’em, Jackson-Silver Post 68, 595 Gore Road, Locke Mills. Doors open 11 a.m., games begin 1 p.m. $50 buy-in, high hand option, BYOB (Anyone under 21 must be accompanied by parent or guardian). FMI Ray at 8903737.

HOLIDAY CHURCH SERVICES Waterford Congregational Church will offer two services on Christmas Eve this year—a Candlelight Family service of carols and readings will begin at 5:30 p.m., and at 11:15 p.m. a service to usher in Christmas Day with poetry, readings, music, and carols. The late service will end with the ringing of the historic Church bell.

WEEKLY SCHEDULE Mondays-Fridays AA Bridgton New Day Group, 12 to 1 p.m., Lake Region Recovery Center, 25 Hospital Drive, Suite E (located behind the old hospital using a private entrance, 803-8707, www.lrrcbridgton.org Mondays Knitting Group meets at the Caswell Conservancy Center in Harrison from 1 to 3 p.m. All levels of knitting are welcome.

Stamping Up Class returns Nov. 1 at the Cancer Resource Center of Western Maine, Norway, 1 to 2;30 p.m.

Space limited, masks required, materials provided. Sign up at info@crcofwm.org Chair Yoga (presented by Cancer Resource Center of Western Maine) at Caswell Conservancy Center (42 Main Street) in Harrison with Susan Kane from 11 a.m. to noon.

Open to public ($10), free to cancer patients and their caregivers. No registration required.

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

Tuesdays Harrison Food Bank, 12 to 6 p.m., located at the Harrison Food Bank, Ronald G. St. John Community Center located at 176 Waterford Road in Harrison. Telephone: 207-6473384.

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

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

Tai Chi Maine at the Bridgton Town Hall on North High Street at 10 a.m. All participants are asked to wear masks.

For more information, go to the Tai Chi Maine website or e-mail Taichiinmaine@gmail.com Jeannette’s Closet, 9 to 11 a.m., First Congregational Church, South High Street, Bridgton.

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

Al-anon, 5 to 6 p.m., Lake Region Recovery Center, www.lrrcbridgton.org Wednesdays Morning Coffee, 9 to 11 a.m., American Legion Post 67, 25 Depot Street, Bridgton. Stop by and have a coffee on us, and see what has been happening with the American Legion. All are welcome!

Chair Yoga (presented by Cancer Resource Center of Western Maine) at Caswell Conservancy Center (42 Main Street) in Harrison with Susan Kane from 11 a.m. to noon.

Open to public ($10), free to cancer patients and their caregivers. No registration required.

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

Thursdays Tai Chi Maine at the Bridgton Town Hall on North High Street at 10 a.m. All participants are asked to wear masks.

For more information, go to the Tai Chi Maine website or e-mail Taichiinmaine@gmail.com NA (Narcotics Anonymous), 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., Lake Region Recovery Center, 25 Hospital Drive, Suite E (located behind the old hospital using a private entrance, 803-8707, www.lrrcbridgton.org Fridays Coffee Call 8 to 10 a.m., Caswell Conservancy Center (42 Main Street) in Harrison, pastries and donuts available, lots of hot coffee, stimulating conversations and time to share memories of time in the military and more.

Bridgton Easy Riders Snowmobile Club meets the second Friday of each month (next one Dec. 10) at the Bridgton Community Center (Depot Street); 6 p.m. potluck supper; meeting follows.

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

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

Sundays Ping Pong at the Bridgton Town Hall from 1 to 4 p.m.

All welcome. Equipment provided free! 4 tables! FMI 6472847.

Page 8A, The Bridgton News, December 16, 2021

Continuations

Storage

(Continued from Page 7A) setbacks in the commercial zone. The setbacks changed to become closer to the roads.

Planning Board Member Martina Witts, who served on the ORC, explained the reasoning behind the change to a reduction in the setbacks from the road.

“One of the main reasons we wrote it is: If you allow the buildings too far back, the front becomes parking and storage for people. Or whatever you want to call it — stuff goes there,” Witts said.

Planning Board Chairman John Thompson said he thought that the board could accomplish the goals of having structure farther away from the road and keeping the front uncluttered.

“It would be easy to put the building back, and not allow that [storing stuff next to road] to happen,” Thompson said.

Town Planner Ben Smith spoke.

“That is good conversation to have in a separate venue,” he said.

Landscaping was another topic that was on the table and is addressed in the ordinance.

“The ordinance does call for landscaping,” Larry Anton said.

Roma responded, “Yep.” Earlier in the discussion, Anton had brought up landscaping.

“There is certainly enough room to put a row of bushes. You want to make it look a little nicer. To me, looking at the end of those metal buildings” is not as desirable, Anton said.

The engineer agreed.

“We would like to move that whole thing 100 feet back,” Roma said. “If there was a way to pull those buildings back, it would be better for snow storage.”

Witts said she would prefer to maintain the wooded area instead of clearing it for buildings and transplanted trees.

“Keeping the trees that are there now is much better than trying to replant evergreens,” Witts said.

Thompson asked if the board could give a waiver to have them move further back.

Planning Board member Jimmy Allen shared his thoughts.

“They want to set it back, but they cannot. Personally, I would prefer people to build projects much farther back than closer to the road.

They would be able to keep their treed land, and keep people happy,” Allen said.

Unfortunately it is not something that the board could grant.

“They could get the variance by going to the board of appeals,” Allen said.

Panels reduced, solar project ok’d

(Continued from Page 1A) clean-up has to keep up with inflation. This is required as part of the state’s solarenergy law.

He explained that the materials and chemicals used in solar equipment has changed over the years.

“It’s not the stuff that gave the industry a bad rap,” Robertson said.

Deborah Martin, the owner of the parcel to be used as a solar farm, spoke.

“With the other solar projects, have been ask-

ing these questions? Some of you seem to understand what solar is, and some of you don’t,” Martin said.

She said that solar equipment does not generate much noise, and she didn’t understand why the board was making it into an issue.

“There seems to be such a hestitation to this whole process, and I don’t understand it. The way electricity is going up in this area, Naples doesn’t have a very futuristic view of the world,” Martin said. “This

is a much cleaner and nicer way for Maine to make its electricity. You guys have pulled these guys through the wringer.”

“I didn’t pick a company that I don’t believe would be truthful and honest with you,” Martin said, adding that she had first-hand experience with the company since her daughter was employed there.

The Town of Naples has an ordinance allowing cell towers, she said. She would rather see solar equipment

Dorthea Seybold, Executive Director of the Kendal C. & Anna Ham Charitable Foundation and Melissa Rock, Marketing and Communications Officer, VP at Norway Savings Bank and board member of the Ham Foundation presented a $150,000 check to Susan Jennings, Executive Director of the Maine 4-H Foundation and University of Maine Extension Professor.

This check is the first of a $250,000 commitment to

help launch the new Magic Lantern Innovation Lab and Learning Center.

This support is significant to helping us launch our programs for the community. For example, we have booked the University of Maine Physics Lecture Specialist, David Sturm to present the Physics Road Show in late April for schools and the community.

The new learning Center is a partnership between the Maine 4-H Foundation and the University of Maine Cooperative Extension and

4-H programming. The theater is open and celebrating the planning to begin implementing a new educational community program. There are many community supporters and donors that have made a tremendous difference in helping us begin to make this program a reality. Donors and Foundations include the Friends and Family of Webster Granger, the Stephen and Tabitha King Foundation, the Stifler Foundation, Norway Savings Bank, ten local chapters of the Masons, the Bridgton-Lake Region Rotary, RLC Engineering, Carla and Danny Lafayette, Lavon Bartel and David Struck, and a special thank you to major benefactor Frank and Nicky Howell, the Howell Family and Snap Dragon, LLC, and hundreds of local donors. The Magic Lantern Innovation Lab and Learning Center will also be receiving a new appropriation supported by Representative Pingree and Senator Angus King.

“The excitement and community support has been overwhelming from the entire region,” said Susan Jennings. Our work is just beginning for the community, and we are commitment to offering quality educational experiences for

than a cell tower. She said she wouldn’t degrade the land.

“When you sit here and ask questions and questions and ask stupid questions,” she said.

At that point, the Code Enforcement Assistant Jennifer Leeman said Martin had reached the three-minute limit for public comment.

Next up to the podium was Jim Grattelo, the chairman of the Naples Board of Selectmen.

“The town of Naples and the select board has just passed a moratorium on solar for the next six months so that we can ask the right questions. For someone to sit here and say you ask stupid questions is ridiculous,” he said.

He said it was the board’s job to ask the tough questions. He said because of the board’s requests, the project was down-sized to include 1,000 less panels and was not longer using the height of the land on the parcel.

young people, schools, and the entire community. To add your name to the educational mailing list please contact Susan Jennings at susan.jennings@maine.edu.

Today, we are actively hiring staff and planning for the

near future. Our programs will include music, theater, engineering, science and of course movies and dine-in experiences. Programs will be announced through our newsletter, signs, Facebook, and website.

Magic Lantern receives major gifts

Beat the Blues

(Continued from Page 7A) opportunity to be heard and to get what they need. Groups are led by trained volunteers with lived experience in dealing with mental health conditions.

NAMI offers two types of support groups. Connection Recovery Groups are for adults who have experienced symptoms of a mental health condition. Family Support Groups are for adult family members and friends of people with mental health challenges.

To learn more about NAMI Maine support groups visithttps://namimaine.org/supportgroups.

NAMI Maine is an affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental Illness, the nation’s largest grassroots mental health organization. NAMI Maine provides education, support, and advocacy to help people and families affected by mental health conditions build better lives.

For information about NAMI Maine programs and services, visit namimaine.org.

“We live in a world in which we need to share responsibility. It’s easy to say ‘It’s not my child, not my community, not my world, not my problem.’ Then there are those who see the need and respond. I consider those people my heroes.” Mr. Rogers

It's more than a lifestyle choice; it's a responsibility.

This holiday season protect the people and community you love most.

For information on Covid vaccines and testing: Visit https://www.maine.gov/covid19/vaccines/vaccination-sites Call Maine COVID-19 Community Vaccination Line at 1-888-445-4111

The Opportunity Alliance works with people to build better lives and stronger communities.

We provide advocacy, leadership, and support to identify the goals and address the needs of individuals, families, and communities.

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WINTER LOOK with snow on the mountain top and a dusting on treetops seen from the Naples Causeway,. (Photo by Suzanne Richard)

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Opinion & Comment

December 16, 2021, The Bridgton News, Page 1B

On My Corner

by Bob Casimiro Contributing Writer

Philosophers past shaped the future

1776 and 1787 could not have happened without 66 BC, 1690, 1750, and 1754. The authors of the Declaration of Independence (1776) and the U.S. Constitution (1787) were inspired by a galaxy of philosophers, including Cicero, John Locke, Charles-Louis de Secondat, baron de La Brède et de Montesquieu, simply know as Montesquieu, and David Hume, among others. The dates shown above are the published dates of some of their philosophical writings.

Thomas Jefferson was drenched in Enlightenment philosophy, having had mentors who guided him in reading, and discussing Voltaire, Rousseau, Diderot, as well as Locke, Montesquieu, Hume, and others. According to Jefferson biographer William Sterne Randall: “by his college days, Jefferson was studying fifteen out of every twenty-four hours.”

Locke’s Second Treatise on Civil Government, that advanced the view that the authority to govern was “derived from the consent of the governed…,” was a Jefferson favorite.

Jefferson’s “unalienable Rights, … Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness...” in the Declaration of Independence was inspired by Locke’s view that individuals joined with society to “unite for the mutual preservation of their lives, liberties and estates, which I call by the general name – property.”

John Adams was influenced by Locke, as well as James Madison, the so-called “Father of the Constitution,” who absorbed Locke’s discussion of “toleration.”

Montesquieu was a proponent of the “separation of powers,” and “No doubt [Jefferson] imbibed from Montesquieu, as did others of the Founding Fathers, his firm belief in the theory of separation of powers into legislative, executive, and judicial branches of government as a bulwark of liberties.”

Marcus Tullius Cicero (106-43 BC), Roman philosopher, barrister, orator, and statesman, was on everyone’s ‘dance card.’ He said: “The people’s good is the highest law.” John Adams observed that “all ages of the world have not produced a greater statesman and philosopher combined” than Cicero.

In addition to Enlightenment philosophers, the founders were able to refer to many individual state constitutions, resolutions, and compacts predating the 1787 Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia. We need to be reminded of this history, in good times and bad, and something the founders stressed in many different ways: Boston’s Samuel Adams, of Boston Tea Party and Sons of Liberty fame, said this: “No people will surrender their liberties nor can any be easily subdued when knowledge is diffused and virtue is preserved.”

And, George Washington: “Truth will ultimately prevail where there are pains taken to bring it to light.”

The Declaration of Independence, and the U.S. Constitution include ideals, as well as a formula for governance. Our ideals are still to be realized, but our road map for governance is perilously close to a crackup.

Sir John Bagot Glubb, a British soldier, and scholar, postulated that nations go through a life cycle that includes: Expansion, Development, Decline, and Collapse.

Having been born at the end of the Great Depression, raised during World War II, and coming to maturity during the post war era, and living through the Great Society, the War PHILOSOPHERS, Page 7B

Letters Thanks for the fun

To The Editor:

A big thank you to Justin McIver and all the sponsors for the “Music on Maine” events.

I have attended all of them and found the music great, the food wonderful and the opportunity to see friends and neighbors for outdoor fun a much needed and appreciated addition to our town. This last one was a little chilly, but still well attended and a lot of fun. I must admit that the bands on Ladies Weekend were my favorites, but all of them were really good with a lot of variety of types of music. What a great way to support musicians and bring the town together in this difficult time. Thanks again to Justin for sharing his property and having the vision for these events. I hope they will be a permanent feature in our town.

Cathy Grigsby Bridgton

Balancing freedoms

To The Editor:

Several letters and columns in the Dec. 2 edition trigger this letter.

First, a shout out to Winslow Myers for his guest column.

The common good is too often overridden by expressed concerns for individual “freedom.”

We all stop at stop signs, recognize mandates that our children get an education, wear clothes in public, etc. etc., even though these infringe on our freedom to act as we please. Masks, vaccines, and other public health steps are vital to the common good. It is unfortunate that “we the people” has for too many become “me the individual.”

Mr. Myers well outlines the importance of the “common.”

Second, it should be easily recognized when someone falsely attributes a viewpoint to an individual and then engages in a personal attack on that person for that purported viewpoint. Mark Lopez has done that regarding Dr. Fauci (and repeatedly does that on his billboard). As to the origins of COVID-19, independent scientists have concluded that the wet market remains the most likely — but admittedly not conclusively — source.

I appreciate the vigor of Mr. Lopez’ views, and his absolute right to express them, just as I hope he will be supportive of those who express different views from his.

Finally, Victor Detmer’s letter regarding abortion. Unlike many who are opposed to abortion, Mr. Detmer appears to acknowledge that abortion may be appropriate in cases of rape and incest. That reflects an understanding that there is often a balancing of interests even where killing a living person is involved (such as taking lives in war or in self-defense). What Mr. Detmer ignores is that forbidding all other abortions forces women to bear children when they do not want to do so. Whether or not to bear a child is extremely personal — there is perhaps no more important personal decision. We would not tolerate a society like in Handmaiden’s Tale where women are forced to bear children. Yes, there are ways to avoid pregnancy, but do we want to force reproduction on those who, whether intentionally or inadvertently, fail to take those steps? I understand the perspective of those who oppose abortion, but there are very few moral absolutes.

Roe v. Wade was a reasoned effort to balance various interests, constitutionally based in valuing “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.” It is curious that those who most often rage about personal freedom

QUEEN HAS LEFT THE DOCK — With the Songo River Queen II in winter storage, its loading ramp, complete with sun umbrellas, looks a bit out of season at the Naples Causeway.

(Photo by Suzanne Richard)

Gardening inside during winter

During my first trip to Disney World in the late 1980s, a friend and I went on a boat ride in an attraction titled, “Living With The Land” in the Epcot theme park. That was my first experience of learning about foods that were grown with a technique termed hydroponics. I observed vegetables that were growing horizontally and vertically without any soil.

While very interesting, I thought of it as research for future growing techniques.

The Natural Farmer, a newspaper of the Northeast Organic Farming Association, in an article about the history of hydroponics outlined that the term hydroponics comes from the Greek words “hudor” for water and “ponos” for work which, when put together, the term means “water-working.” The article continues, “Hydroponics is now defined as the science of growing plants without the use of soil, but by use of an inert medium, such as gravel, sand, peat, vermiculite, or sawdust, to which is added a nutrient solution containing all the essential elements needed by the plant for its normal growth and development.”

In 2019, Valentina Lagomarsino in a blog for the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences for Harvard University listed some of the benefits of growing produce hydroponically: • No need for a large plot of land with soil • No worry about the presence of weeds or pathogens that may be present in the soil • No need to treat crops with pesticides • Food can be grown all year round

Down the Garden Path

by Nancy Donovan, Ph.D., PT Master Gardener Volunteer • No water lost to evaporation In an article by Ocean Robbins, CEO of the Food Revolution Network, he added to the list of benefits of hydroponic gardening: • Produce grows at least 20% faster than those grown in soil • pH, nutrients, light, water, fertilizers can be controlled • Higher yield per growing area because plants can be spaced more densely together • Requires less water as water can be re-circulated In an article published in 2021 by the National Park Service, titled “Hydroponics: A Better Way to Grow Food,” it was reported that hydroponic growing requires as much as 10 times less water. The article also emphasized the fact that produce can be grown all year round. I would add one more reason to the advantage of growing hydroponically. In 2019, 2020 and 2021, there have been recalls of romaine lettuce GARDENING, Page 3B

Old Christmas sports and high jinks

Howdy neighbor!

For the next two weeks, we’ll be giving a look back on Christmas seasons gone by, beginning with this wonderful image and series of articles, which appeared in The News of Dec. 18, 1896. Interestingly, much of the first article deals with the truly antique traditions of Christmas, which even in 1896 were fast fading from the public’s eye. And as it has been over a century further since it was written, even several traditions it cites as being still common have likewise begun to fade.

Who now today engages in such Christmas games as Blind Man’s Bluff or Hunt the Slipper? Too few, I say! So, if you’re looking for a few old traditions to, pardon the pun, spruce up this year, or if you instead want to set up a truly novel dinner menu, then I’m sure this week’s column will help you as we all set about decking our respective halls for this merriest of holidays. Enjoy!

Some Ancient English Ways of Making Merry at This Season In the olden times, Christmastide was essentially the season of sports, and few relics of the olden days are recurred to with more zest by our fathers than the mirthful games and the goodly frolics which were wont to usher in the days of ‘merrie Christmas.’ At the present day, while Christmas parties (and I do not count Mr. Detmer among them) place no value on a woman’s personal freedom in this sphere.

Daniel L. Goldberg Bridgton and Boston

No one thing to blame

To The Editor:

Thank you to Therese Johnson for remembering the tragedy at Sandy Hook, and for mentioning some of the contributing factors to school violence in general. At the time of the Sandy Hook shootings, I was a department chair at large state university in Connecticut.

I had supervised student teachers at Sandy Hook many times.

The brave first grade teacher who hid her students and saved their lives while she sacrificed hers, was one of our best graduate students, and the former vice principal was a student and friend. As I watched the horror unfold on the news, I questioned how this could happen in a small, safe community like Newtown. The anger and the questions persisted for many months. We all needed someone to blame… the shooter, his parents, the gun manufacturers, the school system. The closest we came to answers in this particular horror was a report issued in 2014 by the Connecticut Office of

the Child Advocate. The report was a thorough, in depth study of the shootings and the events leading up to it. While it is focusing on the Newtown event, the conclusions can inform any state or community.

The Office of the Child Advocate, with its Child Fatality Committee, investigates all untimely, unattended, or violent deaths of a child in Connecticut. The report on the Sandy Hook shootings can be downloaded on their website (ct.gov/OCA) and it is well worth the read. While it is easy to blame one person or entity for the murder of 26 people, the report concludes that, “no one group, event, or entity is responsible for the tragedy.” Did Adam Lanza have serious depression and mental health issues that went largely unaddressed by his parents, his doctors, and the school system?

Absolutely. Did he have an abhorrent preoccupation with violence? Definitely. Should he have had access to assault weapons? Probably not. But any one of those things cannot be blamed for the horror that cascaded out of control on that December day.

Instead, the report cautions us not to rush into judgement about people with mental health issues, who are more frequently victims rather than perpetrators. Can stricter gun laws solve the problem? Not alone. In fact, the report never mentions gun laws. Should schools and mental health pro-

In Ye Olden Times

by Michael Davis BHS Assistant Director and merry-makings are still formed to render the dark season of December more enlivening and cheerful, yet the sports of Christmas are very different now from what they were 100 years or more ago. True, it is that hoodman blind, snapdragon, and hunt the slipper still survive to a greater or less extent, but the good old English merrymakings, like the good old English melodies, appear to be banished from our doors, and nothing is now left of them but tradition.

Christmas was in its best estate in the days of the good Queen Bess [Queen Elizabeth I], and it is a pleasant reflection to think what ‘high jinks’ Shakespeare, Ben Jonson and the rest of that right merry crew must have indulged in. Then CHRISTMAS, Page 2B fessionals be more thorough in addressing student concerns, even those that are not academic? Yes, and they are required to do that by law. Was Adam Lanza’s self-imposed isolation, use of violent video games, depression, anorexia, and OCD to blame. They certainly contributed. But, we cannot simplify the responses, without addressing some key issues.

The only organization that recognized the seriousness of Adam’s health and mental health issues, and the danger of placating and isolating him was Yale Child Study, where an evaluation was completed on him at age 13 or 14. Their recommendations went largely unheeded. Their report stressed the need for more counselors in schools, more complete evaluations, and better therapeutic school programs. Almost 10 years later, we still have not learned those lessons. In fact, almost every report of a child fatality issued by the Office of the Child Advocate cites a lack of communication between the school district, law enforcement, medical agencies, and state child protective agencies as a major cause of child fatalities (The Homicide of Zaniyah Z, September 2015). In order to improve this coordination, states must provide more training and resources. These resources are not safe areas for budget cuts. Ms. Johnson eloquently said, “Let’s do it for our kids.” But let’s look at the whole picture and address the

issues from all aspects, if we want to create a safer world for our kids.

The Sandy Hook School shootings report can be found at the website for The Connecticut Office of the Child Advocate, ct.gov/OCA/reports, Shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School, Nov. 2014.

Pamela Owen Brucker, Bridgton Ed. Professor Emeritus, Southern CT State University

A force of Nature

To The Editor:

“Human Dominion Means We are Responsible for Earth’s Restoration.”

It now looks like the Creator was indeed correct (well?) saying in Genesis that Adam and Eve held dominion over “every living thing,” over beasts as unmanageable as lions and whales, forces as terrifying as plague, famine, and drought.

Now, thousands of years later, some of the world’s most respected scientists are saying that this dominion is now complete.

Human activities have had so much impact that we have become a “force of nature” as a species.

Humans are transforming the land, the water, and even the atmosphere of Earth more

LETTERS, Page 2B

Page 2B, The Bridgton News, December 16, 2021

Opinions floods, or hurricanes only. But, just by our sheer numbers and our technical capabilities, we humans have indeed become a force of nature, as well. It has happened relatively quickly, and it already has resulted in unintended, and major consequences.

We have exacerbated normal climate change by our actions, we are the dominant species, we must clean up our mess. The world’s future is literally in our own hands.

If you are interested in helping, please Google: resourcebased economy, michael corthell.

Michael Corthell Bridgton

Unacceptable DoL

HOT CHOCOLATE AND TREATS — Members of the Bridgton Lions Club handed out hot chocolate and cookies in the parking lot by Bridgton Community Center while waiting for the Festival of Lights Parade. The Lions wish to thank the Legion and the Community Center for their assistance. Pictured (left to right) are Lions Jay To The Editor: When will the Maine Spenciner, Cliff Tuchon, Carmen Lone and Elaine Spenciner.

Department of Labor’s ills and (Photo by Brenda Tuchon)

Letters (Continued from Page 1B)

rapidly and at a greater scale than at any time in our history. We must take action to slow the pace of that change by using resources more sustainably.

Hence, my support for a global

Resource-Based Economy.

In a very real sense, the world is in our hands. Our dominance of Earth means that we cannot escape responsibility for managing this planet.

Every species modifies its environment. And when it comes to humanity’s impact, most people think of “humandominated ecosystems” in terms of plowed fields, har-

vested forests, and urban landscapes. It is much more than those things. Now that term applies to the entirety of the planet. Most ecosystems are dominated directly by humankind, with no ecosystem on the planet being entirely free of our influence.

We tend to think of the “forces of nature” as being natural disasters like volcanoes,

3 CHASE STREET, SUITE 1 BRIDGTON, MAINE 04009

PUBLIC NOTICE

Obama 2.0

To The Editor:

I believe that with the passage of time, history will judge the Obama/Biden eight-year reign to be an unmitigated disaster for the American people.

Their gross mishandling of the aftermath of the Great Recession by instituting massive regulations, restrictions

LETTERS, Page 4B

Virginia Fitzgibbons

PUBLIC HEARING Special Amusement Permit

The Municipal Officers of the Town of Bridgton will hold a Public Hearing at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, December 28, 2021, to accept oral and written comments on a Special Amusement Permit Application from Campfire Grille.

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PUBLIC NOTICE

TOWN OF CASCO and TOWN OF NAPLES

Transfer Station and Bulky Waste Facility Closure

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Public Notice

TOWN OF NAPLES Office Closures

The Naples Town Office will be closed on the following dates in observance of Christmas and New Year’s: • Friday, December 24, 2021 • Saturday, December 25, 2021 • Friday December 31, 2021 • Saturday, January 1, 2022

be addressed, fixed and resolved, including all unpaid unemployment claims for all claimants and non-disbursed SNAP benefits for those eligible for such benefits and payments. Also, real meaningful, substantive improvements with real reforms are necessary for all state departments and bureaus. This includes but is not limited to all of DHHS’ bureaus and the Department of Labor’s bureaus/divisions. The DoL’s flawed unemployment system is broken and ill-prepared for handling many claims resulting in many more issues and problems with unpaid and untimely paid unemployment funds to all claimants. Not acceptable or good. Mildly put: continued failure isn’t an option.

For now, these departments deserve a failing grade all-around.

Not good.

David Hall Cornish

Obituaries

TOWN OF BRIDGTON

The Casco-Naples Transfer Station and Bulky Waste Facility will be closed on Saturday, December 25, 2021 in observance of Christmas and Saturday, January 1, 2022 in observance of New Year’s Day.

problems ever be addressed and fixed?

It has been 1.75 years (and still counting) since the COVID-19 pandemic and “emergency” began. Gov. Mills declared a civil “emergency” back in March 2020. The Department of Labor (DoL) and Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and other departments were overwhelmed with requests for as-

sistance, benefits and services. State bureau responsiveness with help to claimants was lacking to very lackluster to minimally effective at best, with little real improvements to show in more recent weeks. Also, little progress has been made for payment and resolution of unresolved weekly claims issues, including for unemployment, SNAP, etc. Why have these issues been ignored or sidelined by the Maine Legislature et al, regarding the failed unemployment system and DHHS’ SNAP benefits program? Also, where are our state lawmakers on all of these issues, both locally and non-locally? What will the Maine Legislature do about all of this in 2022? The people of Maine deserve better.

Additionally, ME CareerCenters remain locked down and shut, except by advance appointment for short and rather limited office visits.

This has been happening for quite a while. This isn’t okay or acceptable! We, the taxpayers of Maine, have paid for their facilities and their services and staff salaries, etc. We should all expect better from them. One shouldn’t have to go elsewhere for help, including out-of-state, for access to similar resources, help, etc. All job seekers deserve better than that. Sadly, DoL has blown it once again.

Going forward, much must

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PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE OF INTENT TO FILE

Please take notice that Roderick P. Dyer, PO Box 436, Harrison, Maine 04040, is intending to file an application with the Maine Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) on December 13, 2021, pursuant to the provisions of 38 M.R.S.A., Section 1301 et. seq. and 06-096 CMR Chapter 420.

The application is for Renewal of Existing Septage Land disposal/ storage site on Roderick P. Dyer property at 722 Norway Road (Tax Map 52, Lot 5, owned and operated by Roderick P. Dyer.

According to Department regulations, interested parties must be publicly notified, written comments invited, and if justified, an opportunity for public hearing given. A written request for a public hearing, or that the Board of Environmental Protection assume jurisdiction of the application, must be received by the Department no later than 20 days after the application is accepted by the Department as complete for processing.

The application and supporting documentation are available for review at the Bureau of Remediation and Waste Management (BRWM) at the appropriate DEP regional office during normal working hours. A copy of the application and supporting documentation may also be seen at the municipal office in Harrison, Maine.

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Send all correspondence to: Attn: Residuals Utilization Unit, BRWM, Maine Department of Environmental Protection, 17 State House Station, Augusta, Maine 04333-0017, (207-287-2651 or 1-800-451-1942).

Public Notice

TOWN OF NAPLES Planning Board Meeting

The Naples Planning Board will hold a meeting on Tuesday, December 21, 2021. The meeting will be in person at the Naples Town Hall Board Room located at 15 Village Green Lane starting at 6 p.m. On the Agenda: New Business: a. A Subdivision Amendment for Destinee Woods to Nullify Condominium Plan. Located off Fern Lane, Tax Map R02. Submitted by the Town of Naples. b. Site Plan Review for a proposed Change of Use and New Service Building for Moose Landing Marina (Tax Map U03, Lot 18) submitted by Main-Land Development Consultants.

Plans may be viewed online at www.townofnaples.org.

The public is welcome to attend the meeting. Masks are recommended.

Any questions or comments may be directed to Jennifer Leeman via email at jleeman@townofnaples.org.

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Virginia Stedelin Fitzgibbons (“Jini”), 91, died peacefully of natural causes on Nov. 2, 2021, at her home in Scarborough, surrounded by loved ones.

Jini was born in St. Louis, Mo. on the 1st of September 1930 to Jerome and Gladys Stedelin. Jini graduated from Mary Institute in St. Louis and then attended and studied interior design at what is now Endicott College in Beverly, Mass. After a year, she returned to St. Louis and began attending Washington University where she met her future husband Robert Fitzgibbons. Jini and Bob shared 56 years of marriage until his passing in 2008. She was a cherished wife; Bob often credited his happy life to her. In 1959 Bob and Jini settled in Sudbury, Mass., to raise their family of five children: Robert Gerald Jr., Jane Lee (m.

Thibodeau), Mary, Michael Thomas and Lee Ann (m. Street). Jini loved being a full time mother and often said it was the happiest time of her life.

Throughout her life Jini was active in the community. She taught CCD, participated in local town politics, served as the secretary to the Sudbury Junior Ski Program, started the Sudbury Drug Action Committee to raise parental awareness and combat the escalating drug problem in local schools, became a charter member of the Maine Lakes Environmental Association and volunteered with the St. Joseph Food Pantry in Bridgton.

In 1978, Bob and Jini moved permanently to Maine. In 1980, Jini persuaded Bob to buy the Olde House Restaurant because of her strong interest in gourmet food and long history of cooking such food for her family. For the next twenty years, she ran the elegant restaurant that encouraged people to slow down, savor good food, good friends and good conversation. It received many dining awards and became a “go-to” destination for weddings and special occasions.

Jini enjoyed life fully to the end. She loved reading and the performing arts despite failing eyes, current events and lively discussion despite spotty hearing. She was “crazy” about her pets and grandchildren. For all who knew her, Jini was a force to be reckoned with… strong-willed, fiercely independent, active, energetic, opinionated, straight-forward, honest, supportive, loving, generous, wise and often kind. She laughed often and with abandon. Fun was easy with her. Her compassion, hard work, and steadfast commitment to family and her consistent willing the best for others is her legacy. She is survived by four children and her eight grandchildren, Robert Sean and Brian Patrick Fitzgibbons; Spencer Ryan and Deanna Lee Thibodeau; Michael Thomas (Jr.) and Katherine Mary Fitzgibbons; and Margaret Lee and Annabel Powell Street. Jini will be buried in Sudbury, Mass., joining her beloved husband and daughter Mary, “Cricket”.

Funeral Services will be held December 20, 2021, at 10 a.m. at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church (Windham) of St. Anthony of Padua Parish. In lieu of flowers donations to the St. Joseph’s Food Pantry (St. Joseph’s Church, 225 South High Street, Bridgton ME 04009) or the Good Shepherd Food Bank (P.O. Box 1807, Auburn, ME 04211) would be appreciated.

This week’s game solutions

Margaret WR Allen “The privilege of a lifetime is being who you are.” Joseph Campbell Margaret WR Allen of Sebago passed away on December 8, 2021, after a courageous six-year battle with Multiple Myeloma. Margaret was born in Aberdeen, Scotland on November 19, 1949. She spent her childhood in Aberdeen, and completed her secondary school years at St. Margaret’s School for Girls in Aberdeen. In 1967 her father, David W. Reece, accepted a position as a professor of Classics at Union College in Schenectady, N.Y., and emigrated with his wife, Pauline M. Askew, and Margaret and her younger sister Jennifer to the United States. Margaret’s older sister, Anne, remained in Aberdeen to complete her university studies at the University of Aberdeen.

Margaret matriculated at Swarthmore College in Pennsylvania in 1967, initially majoring in French before earning a degree in Linguistics. After graduating from Swarthmore in 1971, Margaret earned a PhD in theoretical linguistics from the University of Connecticut.

In 1969, Margaret married Richard Allen. The Reece and Allen families had become close friends in 1960 when Neal Allen, Richard’s father, spent a year teaching at the University of Aberdeen as an exchange professor of history. Their son David was born in 1975, and Nicholas in 1977. Richard and Margaret became grandparents in 2009, when Wyatt was born to Nicholas and Stacie, and again in 2011 when their grandson Evan was born. Their granddaughter Cleo was born in 2015.

Margaret and Richard shared career paths in education working primarily in private secondary level high schools. In 1973 Richard was hired to teach studio art at the Chapel Hill Chauncy Hall School in Waltham, Mass. Several years later while still a graduate student, Margaret joined the faculty as a part-time teacher and college counsellor. In the mid-1980s she became the school’s Academic dean and member of the administrative team and served in that capacity for more than fifteen years. She earned a M.Ed degree in Instructional Design from UMass Boston and helped the school redesign its college Counseling and strengthen its academic program. Margaret also was a skilled teacher herself teaching courses in French, ESL, and AP Psychology. In her role as Academic dean at both Chapel Hill and Tilton, Margaret was able to help spearhead the development of standard-based curriculums. These programs were designed to foster understanding and establish academic foundations for students that would transcend specific academic subjects and help students comprehend the importance of engaging in meaningful paths of inquiry that could both benefit themselves personally and contribute to broader understandings.

Upon retiring, Margaret and Richard moved to the Allen family home in Sebago, Maine. Margaret became an active member in the Sebago community. She joined the Sebago Historical Society, and authored an extensive study of the Pike family, whose house the Allen family now own. She also was a member of the Lake Region Community Chorus, and was the driving energy behind the establishment of the Sebago Artists group. Margaret had a lifelong love of poetry and music and enjoyed writing poems and sharing them with friends Margaret leaves her husband Richard, her sons David and Nicholas, daughter-in-law Stacie, grandchildren Wyatt, Evan, and Cleo, sisters Jenny Reece and Anne Reece, Richard’s siblings, Marian Allen, Neal Allen, and Edward Allen and his wife Carol, and David’s girlfriend, Emily Dervan. Margaret also leaves behind uncles, aunts and cousins in the U.K., and many other close personal friends here and abroad.

Margaret was always people oriented and placed the highest value on personal relationships as a foundation for living in a very challenging world. She displayed wisdom, a keen intellect, creativity, generosity and compassion as she sought to inspire students and colleagues to strive for their very best. She faced her cancer diagnosis with a grace and courage that was inspirational. Being who she was, it was inevitable that she would share her life lessons with friends and family through poems, music and personal posts on public media platforms.

A graveside service and memorial will be held in the Spring at the Allen gravesite on Allen Road, Sebago. In lieu of flowers, gifts may be made in Margaret’s memory to the New England Cancer Specialists. To share memories and condolences with the family please go to www.chandlerfunerals.com. Arrangements are under the care of Chandler Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 8 Elm St. Bridgton.

Opinions

December 16, 2021, The Bridgton News, Page 3B

Disney World. I love that place. In 2018, it was reported that Epcot produces over 27,000 heads of lettuce each year using hydroponic techniques. While that is quite amazing, I enjoy Disney World because of the twinkling trees and greenery, and a small hydroponic system on sale and so I decided to give it a because I can have my picture taken with Eeyore. try. Since the romaine lettuce recalls in 2019 and 2020, I have since purchased another small system. They are each about 15 inches in length. One holds six pods, and one holds seven pods. The system has a base, a hood, grow lights (I have the LED lights models), and a pump. I purchase pre-seeded pods (Continued from Page 1B) from the company that makes the portable systems. The seeds was the time when the boar’s head was brought to the table I purchase are already placed in biodegradable sphagnum peat amid the blare of trumpets and the beating of drums, while the sponge. All I do is place each pod in the tray and add water whole company sang paeans in its praise. The brown October to the base (I use distilled water as recommended). I add the ale flowed without stint, the fire blazed and crackled with the provided plant food and program the system for what I am Yule log, while the Lord of Misrule, without whom Christmas growing. The liquid plant food supplied contains nitrogen, phosphate, potash, calcium, magnesium. The system lights up to alert me when I need to add water and plant food (about every two weeks). When I plant romaine lettuce, it is ready to eat in approximately three weeks. I can also grow many types of greens, tomatoes, herbs, peppers, flowers, etc. It should be noted that there are several hydroponic systems available for home use with the cost ranging from about $50 to $150-plus.

They are available at some department stores and on Amazon.

One question that I had was whether the hydroponically grown produce was as nutritious as the soil-grown produce.

Sophie Egan provided comments in an article in the New York Times on Dec. 23, 2016. She wrote, “The bottom line is it depends on the nutrient solution the vegetables are grown in, but hydroponically grown vegetables can be just as nutritious as those grown in soil.” She cited Marion Nestle, a professor of nutrition, who commented that those who grow hydroponic produce and have tested their greens for nutrients found them to be in normal or even higher amounts when compared to soil-grown produce.

So, this winter when the snow covers my outdoor gardens, I can pick fresh lettuce and tomatoes for a taco salad and use fresh herbs for other meals while I recall my trips to

Gardening inside during winter

(Continued from Page 1B) and yellow onions due to the presence of dangerous toxins.

Produce grown indoors is safer if properly maintained and is less susceptible to air and water pollution.

It is easy to see how these benefits apply to large-scale commercial operations/farms. Theoretically, an abandoned parking lot could be transformed into a hydroponic facility.

However, one drawback is that the upfront costs of a largescale operation are quite large. The facility must be enclosed, and the building requires pipes, pumps, tubing, lighting, timing devices, controlled temperature and humidity — all of which require careful monitoring. Also, there is the cost for water and utilities. And, since the nutrients are not supplied from the soil, they must be supplied to the roots by a prepared solution.

Obviously, individual homeowners are not likely to build a large greenhouse to grow food hydroponically. But, even if a person has limited, or no, outdoor space, it is still possible to do hydroponic gardening. A few years ago, a local store featured

Obituaries Donald Sutherland Donald Sutherland passed away peacefully at the Maine Veteran’s Home in South Paris on the morning of December 6, 2021.

We could not be more grateful for their excellent and loving care of Dad and of us. We are equally indebted to our many friends who helped Mom and Dad stay at home for the last few years of their lives.

The support and happiness your presence gave them sustained us as well. We want to especially recognize the team at First Light; Marketa Tikander; Janice Bachelder; Paula Holt; Mary Lindsey; Sejong and Ji Park, Kirsten Wears; the Pfeil family; and Charlie and Kathy Dietrich.

Don was born in Boston on May 15, 1932. He suffered many losses in his life including his parents, all of his siblings, and most recently, his wife Patricia. He is survived by his devoted children and their spouses: Mark and Kim Sutherland of Lakeville, Mass.; David and Trisha Sutherland of Salt Lake City, Utah; and Mary Sutherland and John Masuck of Springfield, Mass. He leaves behind three cherished grandchildren: Erik, Allie, and Nona Sutherland, and nineteen nieces and nephews.

Don quit high school in his senior year in order to help support his family, though he did return and graduate before joining the United States Navy in 1952. He served proudly as a Radioman First Class aboard a Gearing-class destroyer, the USS William M. Wood, during the Korean War. He later went on to be the quartermaster of the Harrison VFW for many years. You may remember him sitting at a table in front of Food City in Bridgton, quietly raising money for the VFW by selling raffle tickets or Buddy Poppies. He was proud to share service in the Navy with his son, David. He loved the work he did in the Navy; he loved the traveling; and he loved the sea. He left it because he wanted to find a wife and start a family. He found our mom. They were married 62 years when she passed away in June.

If you knew our dad at all, you knew he could be relied upon to help you in your time of need. If you knew him well, you knew him to be a wry, companionable, soft-hearted man of great tenderness. If you were lucky enough to be one of his kids, you have a lifetime of sweet, funny memories of how much he loved Mom, our extended family, and how much he loved you.

Our dad worked hard to provide a good life for us. He walked us to church every week — and then took us out to get donuts. He took us on “mystery rides” into Boston. He coached baseball and hockey in our hometown of Weymouth, Mass., for many years — his own kids and lots of other people’s kids, too. He ran a skating school. With great patience, he taught us all to drive — including Mom. Every summer, he roused us out of bed before dawn to bring us to Bridgton. Here, he swam with us; sailed Beaver Pond with us; listened to ballgames on the radio with us; warmed himself around the bonfire on beautiful August nights with us; and drove back to Boston every Sunday for a week of work before he could join us again on Friday evenings. Later in life, he traveled widely in the U.S. for work and, with us, for pleasure. Best of all, he and Mom traveled extensively through Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Italy, and France. Mary had the pleasure of going with them on one trip and Don’s sister-in-law, Maureen, joined them twice.

These were joyous, hilarious, adventurous times. Dad wanted a family; he wanted to take care of us; and he wanted to see the world. We are so grateful that he was able to fulfill so many of his dreams.

Mom and Dad enjoyed a wonderful life after retiring here in Bridgton — now some thirty years ago. They were so happy here — traipsing around the countryside with their tight-knit group of friends — especially the Dolans, the Maxfields, the Martins, and the Kalipinskis. It’s a joy to remember.

This has been a tough year. Our aim is to gather together in celebration of Dad and Mom sometime this coming spring.

Rest in peace, Dad, until we all meet again on the other side of this life. You were — and will always be — loved with all of our hearts. Thank you, Dad — for everything. To share memories and condolences with the family please go to www.chandlerfunerals.com. Arrangements are under the care of Chandler Funeral and Cremation Services, 45 Main Street South Paris.

Old Christmas

Michael D. Boulay SEBAGO — Michael D. Boulay, 64, of Sebago, died peacefully December 12, 2021, after a long battle with cancer. He was born February 16, 1957, in Fort Kent, the son of Lucien and Annette (Paradis) Boulay.

Mike, also known to his friends as “Frenchie,” was an avid outdoorsman, who enjoyed hunting and fishing with his brothers, was a true Celtics and Patriots fan, who loved classic rock, especially AC/DC, which was evident with his going to see Dirty Deeds just a few weeks ago in Portland.

He will be remembered for having that special connection with our four-legged friends. Sam and Frankie certainly held a big piece of his heart. No one could deny he knew how to bring a smile to your face, living by his motto of “it is what it is.”

He is survived by his brother Rodney and wife Gloria of Fort Kent; sister Brenda and husband Joel Gagnon, of Wallagrass; sister Susan Niehoff of North Berwick; brother Alan and wife Susan of Wells; and multiple nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents, brothers Joel and Larry and sister-in-law Thelma. He will be dearly missed by family and friends.

The family wishes to thank Northern Light Mercy Oncology and Hospice services for the great care they showed Mike.

Per his request, there will be no public funeral services. Arrangements are entrusted to the Johnson Funeral Home, North Berwick, where condolences may be expressed at www.JohnsonFuneralHomeME.com

Anthony Rogers NAPLES — Anthony “Tony” Rogers, 81, who lived most of his life in Naples, passed away peacefully at Coastal Manor in Yarmouth after a period of declining health.

He was born September 4, 1940, in Portland, son of Mildred Rogers. He was a graduate of Gorham High School before serving in the U.S. Navy as a torpedoman and battleship hurricane helmsman. He also spent time as a military police officer.

Tony was a house painter, beautifying many homes for 16 years following his time in the service.

In 1985 he started Caretake America, caring for properties on and around the Lake Region.

He eventually partially retired to Florida where he enjoyed volunteering at the local American Legion Post and continued to spend the summers in Naples with his family.

Tony enjoyed reading, gardening, going to the races at Oxford Plains Speedway and flirting with young ladies everywhere.

He especially loved his two sons, his daughter-in-law and following his two grandchildren’s activities.

He was predeceased by his mom Mildred Rogers.

Surviving are his son Darrin Rogers and wife Jennifer of Raymond and their two children Eli and Gwen and his son Kevin Rogers of Naples.

He would also want to say his many friends here and in Florida.

A celebration of life will be held in the spring.

Arrangements are entrusted to the Johnson funeral home of North Berwick. Condolences may be expressed at www.johnsonfuneralhomeme.com

CHRISTMAS, Page 7B

Thank you!

The family of Walter and Betty Horton would like to thank friends and family for their thoughtful cards, flowers, and memorial gifts sent during this difficult time.

James W. Allen SOUTH HIRAM — James “Jimmy” W. Allen, 65, passed away peacefully Dec. 4, 2021, at his home after a courageous battle with cancer with his wife at his side.

He was born in Bridgton, Maine on July 23, 1956, son of William and Gladys (Andrews) Allen. He attended Lake Region High School and joined the Army when he was 17. He worked various jobs through the years and married his high school sweetheart, Carol (Miller) Thomas-Allen on Nov. 7, 2021.

Jimmy loved fishing, snowmobiling and spending time with family. He was a member of Naples Fire Dept. as a teenager and more recently a member of South Hiram Fire Dept.

He was the second youngest of twelve. He is predeceased by his parents, brother Glen Adams of Bridgton, sister June Blais of Sebago and brother Harold Adams of Casco.

He is survived by his wife, Carol of South Hiram; sisters Shirley Shane of Naples, Vivian Polland and husband Gene of N. Berwick, Patricia Woolley and husband David of Bridgton, Rosalie Merrill of South Portland, Lillian Madura of Poland, Elaine Mead and husband Kelly of Disputanta, Va.; brothers Phillip Adams and wife Judy of Greenville Junction and Walter Adams of Naples; Stepsons Rob Thomas and his girlfriend Amie Bailey of Bridgton and Steve Thomas and his wife Debra of Harrison; Chad Fillion and his wife Jessica of Lancaster, N.H.; nine grandchildren and two great-grandchildren and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

Much thanks and gratitude to Dr. Devon Evans and his team at New England Cancer Specialists, Maine Medical Center doctors and nurses and Kindred Hospice for their excellent care and compassion.

A celebration of life will be held in the spring. A benefit will be held in January.

Online condolence messages can be submitted at the Poitras, Neal & York Funeral Home, website, www.mainefuneral.com

Warren’s Florist

~ Always Fabulous Florals ~ ~ Fruit & Gift Baskets ~ ~ Ganz Plush Animals ~ Balloons ~

39 Depot Street, Bridgton, ME 04009

207-647-8441 • 800-834-8407

May you be happy.

May you be well.

May you be safe and sound.

May you be peaceful and at ease.

May you feel forever loved.

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Always Improving We just completed a major renovation to be more comfortable and up-to-date for today’s families. And Chandler Funeral Homes is constantly advancing and offering more services than any other funeral homes in the area.

Wishing you the most peaceful of holidays with love.

Family and friends attending services now have a stunning reception area to share a meal after the service. Also, our casket selection is now online for your convenience.

Improvements all done with our families in mind to give quality service above and beyond the rest at affordable prices.

While we are adding more, we are still committed to keeping our prices fair. That’s one important reason we are the most preferred funeral home and we won’t ever forget that.

Family Owned and Operated

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Page 4B, The Bridgton News, December 16, 2021 President Biden is in such obvious steep decline that he can’t possibly be calling the shots. Tragically, America is clearly experiencing the (Continued from Page 2B) Obama presidency 2.0.

Robert M. Howe Jr. and gross interference in the Bridgton economy turned what should have been a quick return to normalcy into a year’s long moribund economy instead.

This was until future President Trump got government the hell out of the way and off To The Editor: Americans’ backs.

I found Laura Finley’s colThe Obama presidency was without question one of umn on gun violence very inthe most divisive in the his- teresting. To me, it’s refreshtory of this wonderful nation. ing to have facts, numbers. My From day one, Obama never only question is if her comparmissed an opportunity to take isons of U.S. statistics to other verbal shots at Christians and “wealthy” countries took into conservatives. Obama, with- consideration population size.

Carol Madsen out fail, sided with the crimWaterford inal thugs that have inflicted so much death and destruction on American cities and instead blamed the police, who are trying to save America from anarchy.

The Obama/Biden team To The Editor: used the full weight of the It’s appropriate in this GBD, IRS and numerous other Christmas season that last federal agencies to intimidate week’s BNews had an item reand harass their political oppo- affirming my faith in miracles. nents mercilessly.

The Rev implied something in With the persona of Mr. his last week’s homily that I acCool and a gift of flowery tually agree with! He implied prose, Obama was by far the his expectations that the Dems biggest and most worshipped have but one year left to percelebrity in America. Many form their mischief. He’s selAmericans, then and now, view dom correct in his assessment, Obama as a virtual messiah. but in this case, I’m praying With the benefit of hind- for him. sight and a thorough assessThe rest of his effort, howment of his checkered record, ever, contained his usual litany Obama is certain to go down in of misstatements. No Rev, the history as one of the most thug- Democrats and the New Deal gish in a long line of despot- did not rescue us from the deic presidents, who played the pression. They did lay the founAmerican people for suckers.

Letters

Population considered?

It wasn’t the Dems

NEED A

PROFESSIONAL SERVICE? THE BRIDGTON NEWS

Opinions

dations for many of today’s problems… bloated government, erosion of personal freedoms, etc., but it was WWII that ultimately cured the economic malaise that gripped the country for over a decade.

Also, no Rev, the Dems didn’t win the war against fascism; the country did in a collaborative effort that we could only dream about today as E Pluribus Unum has been destroyed on the altar of diversity.

His convenient inaccurate memory also misrepresents the role of his beloved Democratic Party, who but for the help of the Everett Dirksen led Republicans and a rebellious liberal wing of the Dems there would have been no civil rights legislation in the Sixties.

I wonder if he realizes the humor of his lament and anger that many Americans refuse to follow the rule of law implying these miscreants are Republicans while ignoring the inconvenient truth that Antifa and BLM are responsible for exponentially more arson, vandalism, and loss of life than conservatives?

Finally, as far as Jan. 6 is concerned, a bunch of people need to look up the definition of insurrection. It would be more appropriate to expropriate the ludicrous description the left so loves as Antifa and BLM thugs burn, loot, vandalize, and kill people that of a “mostly peaceful demonstration” remembering that there were no fires, minor property damage, and the only death came at the hands of a wildly out-of-control government official. The fact he is not facing criminal charges is a classic ex-

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

CONSULT OUR LISTING OF BUSINESS SERVICES AND LET AN EXPERT DO THE JOB! CLEANING SERVICES

ELECTRICIANS

Chandel Associates Accounting, Taxes Audits, Full Service Payroll 3 Elm St., Bridgton Office 647-5711

Servicemaster Prof. Carpet Cleaning – Home/Office Fire/Smoke Damage Restoration 1-800-244-7630 207-539-4452 (12/21x)

Jones & Matthews, PA Certified Public Accountants Accounting and taxes Roosevelt Trail Prof. Bldg.

Route 302, Bridgton 647-3668 cpas@maine.com

TLC Home Maintenance Co. Professional Cleaning and Property Management Housekeeping and much more 583-4314 (12/21x)

D. M. Electric Inc. & Sons Dennis McIver, Electrical Contractor Residential/Commercial/Industrial Licensed in Maine & New Hampshire Bridgton 207-647-5012 (12/21x)

ACCOUNTANTS

(12/21x)

J.P. Gallinari Electric Co. Residential - Commercial - Industrial Aerial - Auger - Lifting Service Bridgton 647-9435 (12/21x)

ample of the left’s hypocrisy. audience that Walden intends So, Rev, let’s recast your to own and operate the project. question, “will they or won’t they” to a hoped-for affirmative response to the question being “will they or won’t they please go away?”

Don Vose Naples

Industrial Solar Farm

To The Editor:

I read with interest Reverend Plaisted’s column in the Dec. 9 Bridgton News entitled, “Waiting for Pearl Harbor” where he states that half of the 800,000 deaths due to the COVID-19 virus could have been avoided.

He states that 400,000 people died due to “our inept response to the virus, a combination of denial, dishonesty and arrogance.” I don’t know whether he is referring to the Trump or Biden administration, as roughly an equal number of deaths occurred during both, even though Biden had the advantage of an unlimited supply of vaccines. I’m sure that we all would be eager to know how 400,000 lives could have been saved. Maybe he could devote another column to explain this.

Reverend Plaisted goes on to say that the climate crisis is the greatest threat that human beings have ever faced. If we are not able to “turn down the thermostat during this next decade, the final climate death toll will involve numbers we don’t even want to think about.”

Really? Tell us the number

To The Editor:

I believe most enlightened people are convinced the United States needs to have a greener economy. I am one of those people, but not at any cost. Large solar companies are capitalizing on this “green” concern by targeting small communities, which have town ordinances that may not be up to date (i.e. they do not have solar ordnances). Lovell is one of those towns and is facing the possibility of absorbing a 170plus acre solar farm that will require clear-cutting pristine forestland (over 10,000 trees), endangering wildlife and destroying historic scenic views.

The solar farm will not benefit Lovell homeowners and the installing company plans to sell the project soon after it is completed. What happens to those panels after their life span ends is an unknown. This should not happen.

Peter J. Heinz Lovell Editor’s note: Solar project presenter, Dale Knapp of BRI Environmental, said during the Lovell Planning Board meeting, Jack Kenworthy of Walden Renewables informed the entire INSURANCE

SNOWPLOWING

Oberg Insurance Auto, Home, Business, Life 132 Main St., Bridgton Tel. 647-5551, 888-400-9858 (12/21x) Southern Maine Retirement Services Medicare Supplements & Prescription Plans Life and Senior Dental Insurance 150 Main St., Bridgton 207-647-2900 (12/21x)

INTERIOR DESIGN Universal Designz Consulting – Design Decorating – Aging in Place www.UniversalDesignzMaine.com 207-754-0730 (12t21x)

OIL DEALERS Dead River Co. Range & Fuel Oil Oil Burner Service Tel. 647-2882, Bridgton (12/21x)

SURVEYORS

Webber Snowplowing Service Second homes, Camps, Private Roads. Naples & Bridgton Cell 207-831-8354 (12/21x)

REAL ESTATE Chalmers Real Estate 100 Main St., Bridgton Tel. 647-3311 Kezar Realty Homes, Land & Vacation Rentals Lovell Village 207-925-1500 KezarRealty.com

(12/21x) Oberg Agency Residential, Business, Lake Shore Property 132 Main St., Bridgton Tel. 647-5551, 888-400-9858 (12/21x)

RUBBISH SERVICE

COMPUTERS

ABC Rubbish Weekly Pick-up Container Service Tel. 743-5417 Worsters Rubbish Removal Trash hauling Docks – Demolition Snowplowing/Sanding Harrison 207-583-6914

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

(12/21x)

Maine Survey Consultants, Inc. Land info services – Surveys Boundary/Topographic/Flood elevation PO Box 485, Harrison, Maine Off: 583-6159 D. A. Maxfield Jr. PLS Over 10,000 surveys on file (12/21x)

THIS SPACE CAN BE YOURS Call 647-2851 for details or e-mail bnews@roadrunner.com

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

VETERINARY Fryeburg Veterinary Hospital Small Animal Medicine & Surgery Route 302, Fryeburg 207-935-2244 (12/21x)

(12/21x)

WINDOW TREATMENTS

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Bolsters Decorating Center Custom window treatments Always free decorating consulting bolsters@megalink.net 9 Market Sq., So. Paris 207-743-9202

(12/21x)

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

F. Jonathan Bliss, P.L.S. Bliss & Associates Surveying, Land Planning 693 Main St., Lovell 207-925-1468 blissinc@fairpoint.net (12/21x)

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 (12/21x)

SELF-STORAGE Bridgton Storage 409 Portland Rd. 28 units & 4000’ open barn Bridgton 272-8085

LETTERS, Page 5B

(12/21x)

Universal Designz Window Treatments – Upholstery Slip Covers – 207-754-0730 www.UniversalDesignzMaine.com (12/21x)

DEC 2021

R.W. Merrill Electrical Contractor PAINTING CONTRACTORS 24 hour Emergency Service Residential & Commercial Redo Properties.com Naples Computer Services Shelley P. Carter, Attorney Harrison 583-2986 Fax 583-4882 (12/21x) “AWARD WINNING” Law Office of Shelley P. Carter, PA PC repair/upgrades – on-site service Interior/Exterior painting & repairs 110 Portland St., Fryeburg, ME 04037 Virus and spy-ware removal Local, experienced & professional FLOORING 935-1950 www.spcarterlaw.com Home and business networking Call/text 207-693-4663 (Home) (12/21x)] (12/21x) Video security systems Bolsters Decorating Center Webber Painting & Restoration Michael G. Friedman, Esq., PA 71 Harrison Rd., Naples 693-3746 (12/21x) Carpet – vinyl – ceramic Interior/exterior painting & repairs 132 Main St. Always free decorating consulting Waterfront specialists – Free estimates P.O. Box 10, Bridgton, ME 04009 bolsters@megalink.net DANCE INSTRUCTION Fully insured – References 207-831-8354 647-8360 (12/21x) 9 Market Sq., So. Paris 207-743-9202 (12/21x)

(12/21x) The Ballroom Hastings Malia, PA Dance - Exercise - Yoga - Aikido PLUMBING & HEATING 376 Main Street – PO Box 290 Main St., Harrison, Maine FOUNDATIONS Fryeburg, ME 04037 Collins Plumbing & Heating Inc. 935-2061 www.hastingsmalia.com 207-583-6964 (12/21x) Specializing in repair service in (12/21x) Henry’s Concrete Construction The Lake Region 647-4436 (12/21x) Foundations, Slabs, Floors DENTAL SERVICES CHIMNEY LINING Harrison Tel. 583-4896 (12/21x) Ken Karpowich Plumbing Repairs/Installation/Remodeling The Clean Sweep LLC Bridgton Dental Associates Master Plumber in ME & NH Chimney Cleaning Service GARAGE DOORS Dr. Paul Cloutier Over 20 years experience 207-925-1423 Supaflu and Stainless Steel Complete dental care

(12/21x) Chimney lining and relining Roberts Overhead Doors 138 Harrison Rd., Bridgton Dana Richardson 935-2501 (12/21x) Commercial/residential – free estimates www.bridgtondental.com PROPERTY MANAGEMENT Now offering Master Card & Visa 207-647-8052 (12/21x) 207-595-2311 CARPENTRY (12/21x) Clement Bros. Lawn and Landscape Organic lawn & garden maintenance Robert E. Guy Bridgton Dental Hygiene Care, PA INSURANCE Shoreline restoration General Carpentry – Additions Family & Periodontal Dental Hygiene Svcs.

Creative stonework, property watch Repairs – Remodeling Infants, Toddlers, Teens and Adults Chalmers Ins. Agency Snowplowing & sanding www.bobguy@myfairpoint.net InNetwork; N.E. Delta Dental & MaineCare 100 Main St., Bridgton 207-693-6646 www.clementbros.com Harrison 743-5120 239-4804 (cell) (12/21x) (12/21x) (12/21x)\ 207-647-4125 bdhc@myfairpoint.net (12/21x) Tel. 647-3311

ATTORNEYS

Reply to Waiting for Pearl Harbor

and how you arrived at it. It would make an interesting column.

I will be the first to agree that the world is warming and that human beings contribute to that phenomenon.

The world has gone through warming and cooling periods for thousands of years before industrialization started. Obviously, we are still here. Experts have been predicting doom and gloom for many years. In the 20th century, experts were predicting disaster from over population and the resulting lack of food. They didn’t consider the ingenuity of human beings to adapt and become vastly more efficient in farming methods. In climate change models used to predict the future, scientists don’t seem to take into consideration our ability to adapt as we have done with challenges in the past.

Spending trillions of dollars on inefficient energy schemes that won’t really make a difference is nonsensical. Equally ridiculous is retarding the energy revolution created by fracking and inhibiting our ability to utilize our energy assets.

Why do we ignore the benefits of nuclear energy that emits no greenhouse gases?

I am confident that our human resourcefulness will develop very efficient inexpensive energy systems that will make fossil fuels, wind, and solar energy irrelevant. In the meantime, let’s not destroy our economy because

This week’s puzzle theme:

Winter Fun

ACROSS 1. Rope fiber 5. Mai ____ 8. Russia’s Terrible one, e.g.

12. “What ____ Happened to Baby Jane?”

13. Tattled 14. Actress Reed 15. Internet share-able 16. Inwardly 17. Black tropical hardwood 18. *Winged impression in winter 20. Home of the Hawkeyes 21. Investigative report 22. Chicken or this?

23. Not dense 26. Early-day supercontinent 30. Afternoon shut-eye 31. Even though 34. Picture on a coat 35. Anti-seniors sentiment 37. Jean of Dadaism 38. Crewneck alternative 39. Half-man, half-goat 40. Arm cover 42. Victoria Beckham ____ Adams 43. Lacking sense of moral standards 45. Flying high 47. Often part of disguise 48. Queen-like 50. Wood file

52. *____ ____ Plunge 56. Secret stash 57. Damien’s prediction 58. Not at work 59. Opposite of cation 60. Abbreviated seconds 61. Precedes stated rank 62. Moon pull 63. *Like toddy or cocoa 64. Trans-Siberian Railroad city DOWN 1. Shortens pants 2. Like fair share 3. Short for memorandum 4. Antebellum 5. Polynesian kingdom 6. Ten-pin establishment 7. Bucolic poem 8. *Ride on runners 9. *Winter building material 10. Tolstoy’s Karenina 11. R&B Charles 13. *Glittery decor 14. Condescend 19. Indian black tea 22. Nibble 23. Big mess 24. Like a Druid, e.g.

25. Celery, technically 26. *Snowman’s corn cob accessory 27. Are not 28. Wedding singer, e.g.

29. Questioned 32. *Snow____, ammuni-

tion 33. *”But I heard him exclaim, ____ he drove out of sight...”

36. *Winter walking aid 38. Type of consonant 40. Actors’ grp.

41. a.k.a. strict vegetarians

44. Mature, as in fruit 46. Like Silas of “The Da Vinci Code” 48. Young Montague 49. Decide at the polls 50. Jasmine of “Aladdin” 51. Turns blue litmus red 52. #42 Across, once

53. Cheese from Netherlands 54. Contributions to the poor

55. Stink to high heaven 56. *Arctic ____, snowmobile brand

Solutions on Page 2B

Opinions

Letters (Continued from Page 4B)

Reverend Plaisted is telling us the sky is falling.

Roderick MacGregor North Sebago

Bad policies, bad results

To The Editor:

It seems like all of the Bad Biden Policies are resulting in Bad Results — just too many to list.

But, there is a bright spot!

One of the most basic forms of government — our court system is performing very well — thank you. There have been three well-publicized jury trials in the last month, and each time, most people think the jury got it exactly right! It is not perfect, but it is the best system ever devised.

Most juries are made up of 12 citizens plus about six alternates. They all agree to be fair and only consider the proven evidence that is presented in court. They don’t confuse opinion and fact. There are no color or socioeconomic standards just citizens who want to hear the evidence and do the right thing.

There is a referee called “The Judge,” who makes sure that the rules of the court are followed. There are no reporters, commentators, or politicians allowed to talk — who might try to “spin” the evidence. There are no anonymous sources, Google, Facebook, or Twitter feeds. The evidence presented must be fair and factual.

Then, there is “Cross Examination,” which allows the lawyers, specific questions, from each side, that are designed to get to the bottom of the facts and ferret out any deceptions. Common sense is the primary factor, speed is not.

The 12 jurors then discuss the evidence and eventually arrive at a decision on the guilt or innocence of the defendant — beyond a reasonable doubt.

This may be an oversimplification of the court system, but contrast it with the news media, where there is constant spin and bias. Facts can disappear if one side deems the evidence to be against their narrative. Race, bigotry, and white supremacy seem to be a part of every story today. There is no referee, no judge to keep things honest. Wouldn’t it be great if the media could police itself or do investigative reporting looking for corruption, like they used to do? Don’t you wish you could cross-examine the pundits?

But, the activist media is in the pocket of Democrats, and they don’t want to call attention to anything that would harm the re-election of their party. I can sympathize with the media when they must try to put a smiley face on inflation, exploding crime, high gas and food prices, Afghanistan, or, the southern border. So, they simply don’t report on those problems. They have turned the page on the Americans stuck in Afghanistan, and they have allowed social media to bury the Hunter Biden “Laptop from Hell” story. They have not corrected the four-year Russia Collusion story, perhaps, because some reporters may have to return their Pulitzer Prizes.

Or, you could just lie that

the border is closed when we all know that it isn’t. Or, you could say that inflation is transitory when we all know that it isn’t. Or, you could ignore the questions about the cognitive abilities of our president. Or, you could talk about the United States requiring COVID tests for all people coming into the country, but ignore two million illegals coming across the southern border without being tested. Or, you could stop talking about Kyle Rittenhouse or Jussie Smollett trials, once the jury verdict didn’t go their way.

The percent of people who trust the media has dropped from a high of 72% in 1976, to just 36% in 2021. What more needs to be said?

Breaking News: Chris Wallace, a well-respected Fox News reporter for 18 years — just resigned in order to take a position with CNN Streaming.

I wonder if CNN is trying to buy a new image after seeing a 68% drop in viewership in one year.

Bill Preis Bridgton

Imagine

To The Editor:

“The best way to destroy the capitalist system is to debauch the currency.” (V. Lenin) Imagine the wonders that would be accomplished by the government spending another two trillion dollars?

Imagine how much more could be accomplished if the real amount of spending was really eight to 10 trillion dollars hidden behind shady accounting tricks?

Imagine how much inflation there already is and how much more inflation the American people would have

December 16, 2021, The Bridgton News, Page 5B

to endure with this additional, out of control spending by government?

Imagine how much wealth will be transferred from the poor, the middle class, and those on fixed incomes to the crony capitalists and political elites?

Imagine how many more people will drop from the middle class into the ranks of the poor?

Imagine an even larger government, able to take away the powers and privileges of the people and use those powers to subjugate the very people it was created to protect.

Imagine that the Biden juggernaut could be stopped and the Road to Serfdom closed.

Don’t just imagine, call your Senators (Angus King at 202-224-5344; Susan Collins at 202-224-2523). Tell your Senator to stop devaluating our wealth through inflation. Vote against Build Back Better — whatever good that may be in the BBB will be wiped out by inflation.

Jock MacGregor Sebago

Wisdom vs evolving

To The Editor:

Mr. Hoobler is a pretty funny guy. At least, I have to assume that was his intent, as surely he didn’t think anybody could decipher anything serious or prohibitive from his letter. So, if it wasn’t serious, it must be an attempt at humor, right?

Of course, he made his task difficult by choosing wellplowed ground to make us chuckle. His theme — me hate Fox News, me make every-

body hate Fox. Yawn.

Given his place of residence, one can assume his educational background includes knowledge of Churchill’s analysis of the equipment featured by 20-year-olds as opposed to 40-year-olds. Obviously, Rupert is one of myriad QED examples for the validity of this. Conservatives describe this process as acquiring wisdom and maturity, lefties as “evolving.” The difference, of course, is the former is obviously a positive development, while the later usually involves a retrograde rationale to justify holding a really stupid position inconsistent with the past.

Now as to truth. Fox lies?

So, where lays truth? CNN, MSDNC, networks? All home to the multi-year Russian hoax, Sandman defamation, Waukesha SUV, Cuomo’s a great gov,4.5 trillion in government expenditures are free, etc. Yeah right!

You know what? His letter ultimately isn’t very funny…..just more blah, blah, blah (with apologies to Grata Thunberg).

Don Vose Naples

Setting a bad precedence

To The Editor:

“Handmaids” SCOTUS just shot itself in the foot.

In its horrible 5-4 decision on Dec. 10 upholding Texas’ ban on abortions, S.B.8, SCOTUS has deferred to a state’s laws at the expense of federal statute and Texas’ flagrant attempt to “nullify”

rights protected by the federal Constitution. This opens up a potential Pandora’s box of potentially disastrous unforeseen messes that I will explain to Mr. MacGregor in a bit. In her dissent of this ruling and in criticism on her reactionary colleagues, Justice Sotomayor wrote: “My disagreement with the Court runs far deeper than a quibble over how many defendants these petitioners may sue. The dispute is over whether States may nullify federal constitutional rights by employing schemes like the one at hand. The Court indicates that they can, so long as they write their laws to more thoroughly disclaim all enforcement by state officials, including licensing officials.

This choice to shrink from Texas’ challenge to federal supremacy will have far-reaching repercussions. I doubt the Court, let alone the country, is prepared for them.”

This new precedent almost dares blue states to attempt these same tactics to enact laws like say, banning assault rifles and all manner of military grade Kyle Rittenhouse weaponry, enforce background checks, mandate common sense laws pertaining to secure storage of “hunting” firearms, mandate safe operations classes and so on. See where the Pandora box thing is now Mr. MacGregor? I bet I might be frightening some of the readership in even broaching such things. A $10K bounty could be put on offenders of the legislation passed by a Democrat majority in Augusta and then signed into law by Governor Mills. Maybe this whole travesty is a blessing in disguise after all.

Jon St. Laurent North Bridgton

Classified Advertising ATTENTION

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

HELP WANTED

MSAD72 SCHOOL DISTRICT — in Fryeburg, Maine has immediate openings for the following positions: Custodians, Bus Drivers, Substitutes, School Secretary. Visit www.msad72.org, call 207-9352600 or come pick up an application today at Door #10, 25 Molly Ockett Drive, Fryeburg, Maine. tf50

HELP WANTED

FUTURE LEADERS WANTED — Q-Team Tree Service in Naples.

Visit Q-Team.com/benefits for info. tf51

WORK WANTED

LOOKING FOR — Interior painting jobs for 2021/2022 season. Fully-insured. Free estimates. 34 years experience. Dirigo Custom Painting.

743-9889. 16t45x AVAILABLE FOR — Pet Sitting Lovell and surrounding towns. Nina 925-9017 2t49x

Transfer Station Attendant

2T49CD

The Umbrella Factory Supermarket

HELP WANTED Maintenance Position 3 a.m. – 8 a.m.

Deli Positions Bakery Positions Produce Positions Full & Part-time Positions Available Ask for David Allenson 207-693-3988

VEHI­CLES FOR SALE

JESUS IS LORD — new and used auto parts. National locator.

Most parts 2 days. Good used cars.

Ovide’s Used Cars, Inc., Rte. 302 Bridg­ton, 207-647-5477. tf30

DRIED FIREWOOD — Dried twelve months. Selling seasoned hardwood year-round. One cord BUSINESS SERVICES $275, cut, split, delivered. Call 207-595-5029; 207-583-4113. KIMBALL PROPERTY MAINmaineseasonedfirewood.com TENANCE — Fall cleanup, Bark 52t31x mulch, loam, aggregates installed.

Brush removal, chipping available and more. Fully Insured. Call 207595-8321. 5t48x

Henry’s Concrete Construction is looking to hire for a few positions: concrete laborer, concrete floor finisher, and Class B boom truck operator.

Please DO NOT respond if you: are unable to set your alarm, text out sick once a week, have to find a ride to work, or think checking social media every five minutes is part of your daily tasks.

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

Please call or text 207-557-2801

IF YOU NEED ANYTHING ­— cleaned up or cleaned out, my trailer is 7x12. Call Chuck’s Maintenance 743-9889.

16t45x

COMMERCIAL RENTAL

LOVELL ­— Commercial building across from golf course. Bright, efficient oil heat. Plowing and mowing included. Security and last. Call 207-925-6080. 3t50x

FRYEBURG ACADEMY Is seeking the following position:

Database Administrator and IT Administrative Assistant For more information, please visit: https://www.fryeburgacademy.org/about/employment

Clean Fill Wanted

PREMIUM HARDWOOD MIX

Knights Hill Bridgton

$275/cord SUPPLY IS LIMITED, ORDER NOW! 2 cord minimum

GREEN: $225/cord SEASONED: SEMI-SEASONED: $300/cord

MAINE DELIVERIES ONLY

Call to order: 207-452-2157

Maine 4-H Foundation Assistant Director Located at: Magic Lantern Innovation Lab and Learning Center Bridgton Salary Position: Salary negotiated based on experience With an expectation of high levels of autonomy and selfmotivation, this position is charged with managing and executing a wide range of administrative, development, and operational support activities in collaboration with the Maine 4-H Foundation Executive Director. This position executes the day-to-day activities of the Maine 4-H Foundation, Magic Lantern Innovation Lab and Learning Center all while maintaining confidentiality and integrity.

Essential Duties of the Job As Assistant Director this position requires: Program oversight, management, and supervision Fund development, fund management, and donor relationship building Organization and scheduling Direct work with a non-profit Foundation Board Financial management and investment collaboration Non-profit business management Salaried position with occasional nights and weekends Materials must be submitted to the Maine 4-H Foundation via email to: Angela Martin at angela.martin@maine.edu 1.) a cover letter which describes your experience, interests, and suitability for the position 2.) a resume/curriculum vitae 3.) contact information for three professional references or letters of reference (preferred)

TF48CD

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

617-828-6220

Please include:

639 Roosevelt Trail, Rt. 302, Naples • Supermarket Hours Sun.-Sat • 7 a.m.-8 p.m.

UFO Hours Sun.-Sat. 9 a.m.-8 p.m. • 693-3988

AIRPORT TRANSPORTATION — Airport Car Express provides door to door transportation to and from regional Airport, Bus and Train stations. 24 hour operation. Reservations required. 207 893 8294. AirportCarExp@aol.com 14t39x

BUSINESS SERVICES

TF2CD TF46CD

THE TOWN OF FRYEBURG IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.

D&G SNOWMOBILERS — Discount. New and used parts. 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Closed Wednesdays.

Masks required. Harrison. 5832312. 5t48x

2T50CDX

The Town of Fryeburg offers a full range of benefits including health insurance and a retirement program. Please forward an application or resume to Katie Haley, Town Manager, Town of Fryeburg, 16 Lovewell Pond Road, Fryeburg, ME 04037 or e-mail to townmanager@fryeburgmaine.org. Applications/resumes will be accepted until the position is filled.

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

BUSINESS SERVICES

TF17CD

Special requirements include; Class C driver’s license and to be insurable under the Town’s vehicle insurance policy.

A job description for this position is available at the Town Office or on the Town web site at fryeburgmaine.org.

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

52t2x

FOR SALE

2T50CD

The Town of Fryeburg is accepting applications for a fulltime attendant at the Town Transfer Station. The person filling this position will be required to work four 10-hour days; Monday, Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. This position is a semi-skilled manual labor job. The position requires the use of several pieces of heavy equipment, including a front-end loader, backhoe, forklift and roll-off truck. Duties include assisting citizens in the proper disposal of waste materials. Cross-training with the Highway Department is necessary.

FOR SALE

4.) Degree information/transcript.

2T49CD

Green Firewood $225 per Cord Minimum two cords for delivery.

Order online at westernmainetimberlands.com or call 207-925-1138

TF23CD

DENMARK SELF-STORAGE 10' x 10' Unit – $75/mo.

10' x 20' Unit – $125/mo.

207-452-2157

TF33CD

BN 50

Country Living

Page 6B, The Bridgton News, December 16, 2021

GS Camp welcomes new camp directors

JIM WARWICK wood works exhibited at Gallery 302 in Bridgton.

Woodworker at Gallery

Jim Warwick’s table woodworks are genuinely handsome and unique. Gallery 302 is happy to welcome this new artist to its company of artists and artisans.

Jim “Hatch” Warwick is based in Sweden and has a passion for utilizing local resources in his art. He spent any time he could, as a child, in Maine fishing whenever the trout were biting. He has been tying flies since he was 10 and has been on a personal journey to make Maine his home. Jim has a passion

for mixing live edge wood, metal and epoxy to create perfectly imperfect works of art.

Expect the unexpected in each and every one of his pieces. Nature’s inspiration is endless.

Mr. Warwick’s wood creations are on display at Gallery 302, located at 112 Main Street in Bridgton. Holiday hours: Monday, Dec. 13 through Friday, Dec. 24 open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call 207-647-2787 or visit gallery302.com

Photos to benefit library HARRISON — Lynn Hearl of Harrison, who has been taking photographs since childhood, loves the play of light and fog found in Maine, and has found a wealth of rich images in both Harrison and further afield in

Girl Scouts of Maine has hired Jessica Steele as director of Camp Programs and Property. Steele replaces Mary Ellen Deschenses, who is retiring after almost eight years with Girl Scouts of Maine as Chief of Outdoor Operations.

Sarah Davenport joins the camp team as director of Camp Pondicherry in Bridgton, which offers yearround outdoor programming and residential and day summer camps for girls.

Steele has two degrees in outdoor education, is a registered Maine Guide, EMT, and has more than 20 years in a supervisory role with seasonal staff, full time staff, and volunteers.

“We are thrilled to have Jessica join our team, and look forward to all of the experience and creativity she will bring to her role at Girl Scouts of Maine,” says Girl Scouts of Maine CEO Joanne Crepeau.

“I am looking forward to working with the camp and property team in creating more amazing opportunities for the girls. I am excited to share my love of teaching, staff development and training, and my extensive background in outdoor skills and risk management,” said Steele.

Sarah Davenport also comes with wide experience in resident and day camp settings as an assistant direc-

Jessica Steele, above, director of Camp Programs and Property; Sarah Davenport, below, is the new director of Camp Pondicherry.

tor, program coordinator, developer of Counselor in Training programs and outdoor recreation leadership.

“When you mention Camp Pondicherry in this area, almost everyone has a story or a connection — it’s

pretty exciting to join that legacy! Summer camp provides such a unique opportunity for girls to try new things, to grow as leaders, to take healthy risks, and to connect with mentors as well as lots of other girls. I’m looking forward to working for the Girl Scouts because this is an organization with a long history of helping girls grow into confident and strong women,” said Davenport.

Both Steele and Davenport have an exuberant passion for camp, Girl Scouts, and outdoor education.

“One of our key pillars in the Girl Scout Leadership Experience is the outdoors and our camps play a significant role in that with over 800 acres across four camp properties throughout Maine for girls to enjoy, explore and gain confidence in themselves. We are extremely grateful for the significant contributions Mary Ellen Deschenes has made over the years and she will be missed.

We are fortunate to have such experienced staff joining us to advance and enhance our outdoor programming,” says Crepeau.

To join Girl Scouts as a volunteer, reconnect, or donate, visit girlscoutsofmaine.org.

For the latest updates follow us on Facebook @girlscoutsofmaine and Instagram @ girlscoutsofmaine.

Bridgton Farmers’ Market

Szechuan, Hunan & Cantonese Cuisine Dine In or Take Out

DAILY SPECIALS Tel: (207) 647-8890 MAJOR CREDIT CARDS ARE ACCEPTED OPEN 6 DAYS – closed Tuesday Summer/Winter Sun.-Thurs. 11 am - 9 pm/8:30 pm Fri. & Sat. 11 am - 10 pm/9:30 pm

Local photographer Lynn Harrison Village Library. the state. Some of her work is on view and for sale now at Harrison Village Library, and Lynn will generously donate all the proceeds of the sales to the library.

Moody and introspective, these scenes beautifully capture the beauty of the Maine countryside, and would make

Hearl works will Benefit a perfect gift.

The photographs may be viewed during the library’s regular open hours: Monday and Wednesday 1 to 7 p.m., Thursday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. For more information, please contact the library at 583-2970.

SBCC Christmas

Many hands make things the decorations are being happen. made, donations of goodies TF46 Musicians are practicing, are being baked and decorated. Dozens of your neighbors are preparing, for you to attend the Community OPEN Christmas Celebration DAILY on Saturday, Dec. 18 at 2 p.m. at the South Bridgton Mon. thru Sat. 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.• Sun. Noon to 5:30 p.m.

Congregational Church on Homemade Fudge • Fruit & Nut Clusters• Caramels • Turtles & more!

Fosterville Road.

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• Christmas Gift Shop • Wonderful Books • Our Own Maple Syrup Sustainable Agriculture Since 1799 Pesticide-Free Available

Closing for the Season Friday, Dec. 24th

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Paperwhites

By Nancy Tripp Bridgton Farmers’ Market I love risotto and if I don’t make soup on Sunday, I am probably making a big pot of risotto. You may think risotto is a difficult dish, but I am here to tell you it is not.

Master a couple of tricks and you will have a toothsome and delicious risotto every time.

Okay, I should have posted a simple Sunday Risotto earlier, but follow this recipe today and I will offer up my simple, amendable risotto recipe later in the winter.

For today, follow Josh’s directions and you will have a most delicious, belly warming pot of squash risotto to enjoy. Add a side salad or a crusty loaf of bread or simply eat more risotto! Got leftovers? Watch for a recipe for Arancini… I’ll post it soon.

Winter Squash and Leek Risotto from Six Seasons by Josh McFadden

About 8 cups of vegetable or chicken stock 2 pounds of winter squash 2 tablespoons unsalted butter Extra-virgin olive oil ½ teaspoon dried chili flakes 2 cups carnaroli or other risotto-appropriate rice 1 pound of leeks, trimmed, split lengthwise into quarters, cleaned, and thinly sliced crosswise 1 cup dry white wine 2 cups freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese ¼ cup chopped flat leaf parsley 1 tablespoon chopped sage Put the stock in a soup pot.

Peel the squash with a vegetable peeler or a sharp paring knife and split it lengthwise.

Scoop out the seeds and fibers and add to the stock. Grate about 2 cups of squash using the large holes of a box grater and set aside. Roughly chop the rest and add to the stock.

Let the stock simmer slowly for at least 30 minutes so it takes on the squash flavor.

Melt the butter in a small glug of olive oil in a large skillet or a Dutch oven over medium-low heat. Add half the grated squash, the chili flakes, and 1 teaspoon of salt and cook for 2 minutes. Add the rice and cook, stirring frequently, so the rice becomes glossy and slightly darker golden, about 5 minutes. Add the leeks and 1 teaspoon of salt and cook over mediumlow heat until they are soft and fragrant, another 10 minutes or so.

Increase the heat to medium-high and add the wine, stirring and scraping to deglaze the pan. Simmer until all the wine has evaporated.

Start ladling in enough of the hot stock (don’t let the solids get into the risotto pan) so that it just barely covers the rice. Adjust the heat so the liquid bubbles nicely but isn’t boiling hard. Stir the rice occasionally, scraping the bottom of the pan. When most of the liquid has reduced, add more stock. Continue this process, stirring to encourage creaminess, until the rice is getting tender but still has a chalky center when you bite into a grain, about 10 minutes.

Add the remaining grated squash and a bit more stock and cook just until the squash is tender. The consistency of the risotto should be quite moist, because it will stiffen up as you add the cheese and it cools.

Fold 1½ cups of the Parmigiano, the parsley, and the sage and serve right away, passing the rest of the cheese at the table. Enjoy!

The Bridgton Farmers’ Market is located at The All Roads Hub (the old Macdonald Motor Building) at 4 Nulty Street and runs every Saturday 9 a.m. to noon, Nov. 13 through April 17.

For a full list of vendors and information on ordering go to https://www.facebook.com/ BridgtonFarmersMarket/ or contact BFM at bridgtonfarmersmarket.me@gmail.com

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Winter Squash and Leek Risotto

HARRISON — The Harrison Lions Club will be holding their Texas Hold’em Tournament on Saturday, Dec. 18, at the Lions’ Den, located in the back of the Block Building on Main Street in Harrison.

There will be a $60 entry fee. Doors open at 12 p.m. with a start time of 1 p.m. Please bring your masks. Great food and refreshment available. Proceeds will be used to support the Harrison Food Bank and the college scholarships.

Insurance signup Open enrollment for 2022 Health Insurance through the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare) ends Jan. 15, 2022. For a Jan. 1 start date, you must enroll by Dec. 15.

Go to https://www.coverme.gov to apply or re-enroll.

Maine now has its own Marketplace! Many plans will be more affordable in 2022. Check them out! Amy March, Certified Navigator, offers free, confidential and unbiased help. Call her at 207-452-2493, or call Western Maine Community Action at 1-855-806-7333 for further assistance.

Country Living

December 16, 2021, The Bridgton News, Page 7B

Old Christmas

(Continued from Page 3B) would be nothing, put in practice all the arts of which he was the master, when the games lasted for a full month and every one was made happy for a twelvemonth… Ah, those were brave times!

What we call Christmas sports now were in England of very ancient origin, and the Druids celebrated during the winter solstice the rites in honor of Thor, one of the Scandinavian deities. Few of the customs by which the festivities attendant upon Christmas were in later days characterized may be traced to the established ceremonies in honor of that heathen deity.

Thus, the practice of adorning the house with mistletoe has been derived from the use of that plant in the Druidical ceremonies, and other customs which were practiced in England but a few years since are referable to the same origin.

And now for a novel Christmas menu, which may be indicated by quotations rather than names of dishes. Let the menu cards be two holly leaves, joined at the points on the upper side and arranged to stand up in front of each plate. Paint both outer surfaces the color of the leaves and write the menu inside. This should be indicated by quotations rather than by the names of the dishes themselves. For instance; ‘An oyster may be crossed in love.’ – ‘Beautiful soup, so rich and green, Waiting in a hot tureen. Who so such dainties would not stoop? Soup of the evening, beautiful soup!’ – ‘Canst thou catch any fishes there?’ – ‘Some wish a pinion, some prefer a leg; Some for a merry thought, or side bone, beg.’ – ‘My more-having would be as a sauce to make me hunger more.’ – ‘No man’s pie is freed from his ambitious finger.’ – ‘Coffee, which makes the politician wise.’ – ‘I will show myself highly fed.’

More Holiday material to come next week. Stay tuned!

NAPLES WAS TRANSFORMED into a winter holiday spot last Saturday. On Dec. 4, the Naples Community Activities and Recreation Department hosted Christmas in Naples. During the daytime, activities took place around town at venues like the Augustus Bove House.

As the sun set, the Naples Fire Department transported Santa through various neighborhoods. Santa ended the evening at the Naples Village Green, where people sang Christmas carols and the trees were lit.

(Photos courtesy of Deb Dean)

Philosophers past

(Continued from Page 1B) on Poverty, and the Civil Rights era, I have experienced most of these stages and now, in the current tumultuous period, it seems we are further and further away from those founding ideals and, instead of coming together, we are diverging and separating like the ever expanding Milky Way, and appear to be in Bagot Glubb’s period of ‘Decline.’

Where do you think we are?

(References: Thomas Jefferson, A Life, by Willard Sterne Randall; The Second Treatise on Civil Government, by John Locke; John Adams, by David McCullough; James Madison,

by Gary Willis, and Cicero, Selected Works)

Town blinded by the solar glare

By Tom McLaughlin Guest Columnist Lovell’s old Town Hall was packed, standing room only. I wasn’t sure what to expect when I arrived but energy permeated the room. If any present supported the proposed location of 170,000 solar panels in rural Lovell by Walden Renewables LLC, they were silent. Five people representing the company were the only ones to utter anything positive, but then they were paid to do that. No one spoke in favor.

No one spoke against solar energy either. Rather, they objected to where Walden Renewables wanted to put row after row of their big, ugly, black panels. In the 100 square miles of Lovell, the company chose a venue that would ruin one of the nicest mountain views in our picturesque town. One hundred eighty acres of carbon-consuming trees would be clear-cut and replaced with 170,000 solar panels, ostensibly to mitigate climate change.

It would also mar the vista along Christian Hill Road where I happen to live.

It was gratifying to hear how many people describe how beautiful the views are from Christian Hill — how when traveling north or south through Lovell, they choose to drive our road instead of Route 5, the main north/south thoroughfare through town. It’s a slower, less-direct path but more scenic and relaxing.

That path would also would take you over Hatch’s Hill, which is part of the old “‘Scoggin Trail,” an ancient north/south path used for centuries by the Pequawket Indians to go from the Saco River Valley to the Androscoggin River Valley. The views from Hatch’s Hill have not been tended and are being gradually obscured by

Harvest Gold Gallery HarvestGold GoldGallery Gallery Harvest

vegetative growth.

Looking at 180 acres of hillside covered by 170,000 solar panels would render the viewer an entirely different feeling than what it would replace — hillsides of forest that change with the seasons and with the time of day. Walden Renewables tries hard to balance that with hollow verbiage about forestalling global warming and providing clean energy, but it doesn’t wash. Aside from the visual ugliness there are other issues. An acquaintance recently sent this along: The main problem with solar arrays is the chemicals needed to process silicate into the silicon used in the panels. To make pure enough silicon requires processing it with hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid, nitric acid, hydrogen fluoride, trichloroethane, and acetone. In addition, they also need gallium, arsenide, copperindium-gallium-diselenide, and cadmium-telluride, which also are highly toxic. Silicon dust is a hazard to the workers, and the panels cannot be recycled. Posting the above paragraph in a web search produced several links. Typical was a link called: “Debunking the debunkers/Andrew Tobias” in which Tobias contended that some of the article from which the paragraph came contained errors. The errors he cited, however, were minor and he was forced to let most of the article’s claims stand on their own merit.

All 170,000 solar panels Walden Renewables would erect here would be made in China, America’s biggest enemy. Although Walden promises to fund the decommissioning of their panels after they’re obsolete in 20-30 years, what happens if they go bankrupt in the meantime? Would the landowners who leased their land to Walden be stuck with them? Would the Town of Lovell be? Would China take them back? Fat chance. According to an article in Discover Magazine: “It often costs companies more to recycle a solar panel than to produce a solar panel.”

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Particularly grating on me is that I’m involuntarily paying for the solar panels that Walden would install to destroy my view. The solar industry is heavily subsidized by state and federal tax credits, tax exemptions, sales tax exemptions, rebates, and grants. Do you pay taxes? Then your money goes into these things whether you like it or not. If it didn’t, Walden Renewables wouldn’t exist.

Without taxpayer subsidies, solar arrays like this wouldn’t be viable business ventures.

People testifying at the Lovell Planning Board meeting overwhelmingly said they were blindsided by this project. Many, including me, were angry about that. When a moratorium was called for to give citizens more time to consider the 600-page application however, the board voted 3-2 against recommending the moratorium — not on its merits, but because the board lacks legal counsel at this time. Citizens in opposition to the siting of the solar project are afraid the Planning Board will vote to accept the 600-page application and thereby commit itself to a specific timetable for acting on it.

Lovell citizens felt blindsided by this huge Walden Renewables application and declared they need much more time to consider it.

Commensurately, Lovell’s Planning Board seemed taken aback by the vociferous citizen reaction. Now, we’ll see what they do at their next meeting Wednesday, Jan. 5.

Editor’s Note: According to solar project presenter Dale Knapp of BRI Environmental of Portland, “the project as designed technically contains 97,500 panels.”

In regards to solar array decommissioning, Knapp said, “Solar projects that are greater than 20 acres in size have already been subject to a requirement from the Maine DEP for a decommissioning plan to be in place with a Department approved financial surety issued prior to start of construction. In addition, a new law took effect on Oct. 18, 2021, in the State of Maine (Solar Decommissioning Law 35-A M.R.S. §§ 3491-3496) to address this specific issue. This new law requires solar projects that occupy an area of three or more acres to have a Maine DEP approved decommissioning plan in place prior to start of construction.

“For projects that have a Site Location of Development Act (SLODA) permit such as Lovell, the decommissioning plan will SOLAR, Page 8B

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Page 8B, The Bridgton News, December 16, 2021

New trail up Long Mountain

The hike by five Denmark Mountain Hikers on a snowy Dec. 10 to Long Mountain was to explore the new trail that was recently built there.

Temperatures were brisk, in the low 20s, with little wind and clear skies. There was about 2-inches of fresh white snow on the trail and the woods, and we donned microspikes at the trailhead because it was slippery in spots with the snow and ice on the leaves in the trail.

The Denmark Mountain Hikers climbed Long Mountain for the first time in July 2018 and were very impressed with both the way that the Long Mountain trails are laid out and the way they are constructed. The trail follows Mill Brook for much of the way, and there are numerous switchbacks and even a wooden ladder at one point.

The trail is well marked with wooden signs with arrows on them, and the overlooks at the South Ledges and the trail that follows along the edge of the cliffs and from the North Ledges offer spectacular views.

At 0.9 miles from the trailhead the trail divides, with the left fork goes 1.0 miles to the North Ledges on the new trail, and the right fork goes 1.75 miles to the South Ledge on the old trail. We opted to take the right fork to the South Ledge, a trail we’d hiked before and really enjoyed it. It follows beside Mill Brook that was delightfully burbling as we climbed.

The trail is very well laid out, adequately marked, and with numerous board bridges and switchbacks to make the climb easier. At two places the trail crosses old roads with snowmobile bridges over streams, although we didn’t see any signs of snow machine usage on them, yet. As the snow gets deeper I am sure they will be well used.

We reached the South Ledges after about two hours of climbing, and at noon we

Go for a Hike

Senior Rambles Hiking Trips & Tips

by Allen Crabtree

Denmark Mountain Hiker Tina Estes at the South Ledge on Long Mountain.

(Photo by Jeff Sturgis)

continued on the Loop Trail, another 1.5 miles to the North Ledge. The first section was a long “cliff walk” with sheer drop-offs on the right of the trail that offered great views of the valley below. Then, the trail turned left and crossed the top of the mountain for about a mile of mostly level walking. After a short descent, we arrived at the spur to the North Ledge lookout at 1 p.m. covering the traverse in about an hour.

We left the Northern Ledge to the railhead. Unlike the ascent to the South Ledge, which went through rocky ravines and a bolder field, the descent from the North Ledge was mostly forest with few ravines or boulders. However, as the trail builders did a masterful job of providing multiple switchbacks which, although they made the trail longer, moderated the steepness of the trail and made it much easier to navigate in the snowy conditions. Bruce Barrett, the trail builder, deserves many kudos for a very delightful set of trails.

The Long Mountain Trails

The first trail on Long Mountain was completed in 2017: “In 2015, Mary McFadden and Larry Stifler bought land formerly belonging to Wagner Forest Management along Vernon Street in Albany, including the property surrounding Mill Brook and the western slope of Long Mountain. The following year, Barrett, the Stiflers’ trail manager, began designing and building a two-and-ahalf-mile hiking trail that first meanders along the brook, then climbs to open ledges with views of nearby Round Mountain, as well as the White Mountains of New Hampshire and Western Maine.”

In 2021, trail designer and builder Bruce Barrett completed a loop trail that extends from the South Ledge to the North Ledge and back down to the trail to the trailhead.

This “lollypop” loop is 3.75 miles, and the trail connecting to the trailhead is 0.9 miles each way. The trail was dedicated and officially opened by the owners with a tape cutting ceremony on Oct. 31 2021. Barrett reports: “Well for years down on the corner

Blinded by the solar glare

(Continued from Page 7B) be reviewed as part of that process. The approval requires submission of financial assurance prior to the start of construction, this means the plan is fully funded before any site work can begin.

“This project will have an approved decommissioning plan with a fully funded financial mechanism to decommission the project and return the site to a natural state prior to any construction taking place as required by Law. This law, as intended by the legislature, provides

clear conditions and protections for the state of Maine, its residents, municipalities, and landowners from bearing any cost whatsoever associated with project decommissioning. There is a great deal of information available on the Maine DEP’s website on the implementation and management of this new Law that can be accessed through the link below. This law applies to the project in Lovell and Walden must comply.” https://www.maine.gov/dep/land/solardecommissioning/index.html

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Denmark Mountain Hikers (left to right) Jane Gibbons, Tina Estes, and Kathy Huchthausen at the North Ledge on Long Mountain.

(Photo by Jeff Sturgis) at Albany Town House, you can see a Ledge up here… it kinda caught my eye. One day, it was in April, the snow pretty much gone, I just decided I’m going to go up and find that ledge. I had a broken thumb and I ended up rock climbing to get up there and I found it and was like this is great, the view, I was like wow, this is great destination for a trail. So that’s kinda how it began, by finding the destination. This is worth it. I think people would hike to this spot and really feel like okay, it was worth getting here. From there, then the work backwards begins.”

They began building the trail in 2016, starting from the starting point to where it turns left by the brook. The next year, they built it up by the Ledge. Lastly, the following year, about a third of the mile on the existing trail, Barrett extended the trail working backwards from the North Ledge. This year, North Ledge was connected to the trail at

the other end.”

Long Mountain is owned by private landowners. They maintain this trail at their own expense for public use.

Please respect the property to help ensure it can remain open to the public. Camping and fires are not allowed and please carry out what you carry in. The addition of a new trail gives hikers a wonderful option to extend their adventure on this delightful mountain. We’ve done Long Mountain on snowshoes, and have also decided that we need to come back when the hardwood slopes facing the ledges will all be in their autumn foliage glory.

Long Mountain in Oxford County, Albany, ME Difficulty – Moderate Trail distance (loop) – 5.6 miles Hiking time (ascent one way) – 2 hours to South Ledge, 1 ¾ hours to North Ledge Elevation – 1,827 feet Vertical gain – 1,061 feet

Good habits for the holiday season! → Wash your hands often,

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→ Take

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→ Keep portions under control

qYou can say ‘yes’

to dessert— after a plate of veggies and lean protein.

Warm up a cold weather favorite!

Healthy, homemade ho-ho-hot cocoa

Add these ingredients to a saucepan ➊ over medium heat: 1 cup of milk, 2 ½ tsp unsweetened cocoa powder, ½ tbsp maple syrup, ¼ tsp vanilla extract, pinch of salt. until smooth and steaming. ➋ Whisk Pour into your favorite mug and enjoy!

Sources: wellplated.com; statista.com

Coordinates – 44° 20› 06»N 70° 43’ 25” W Topo Map – USGS Greenwood 7.5-minute quad Directions to the trailhead: Take Route 35/37 north from Bridgton to Waterford.

When the two routes split take Route 35 north for 4.6 miles just past Melby’s Market to where Route 118 joins Route 35. Turn right (east) on Route 118 for 3.4 miles to Hunts Corner Road at the sign for Papoose Pond Campground.

Turn left (north) and go 7.7 miles on Hunt Corner Road.

At the old Albany Grange Hall, bear right onto Vernon Street. Continue for 0.9 miles and the trailhead will be on your right. An alternate route is to turn left on Route 118 at Melby’s Market in the direction of Bethel, go about 1 mile to Hunt Corner Road and turn right, go for 6.1 miles and pass the Albany Grange Hall on your right and then go 0.9 miles further to the trailhead on your right.