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

Vol. 144, No. 52

24 PAGES - 4 Sections

Bridgton, Maine

December 26, 2013

(USPS 065-020)

www.bridgton.com

SEVENTY-FIVE CENTS

Home transformed into Christmas wonderland

By Dawn De Busk Staff Writer NAPLES — It seems like the North Pole when you finally get there.

But, it isn’t quite that far a journey.

It’s a Christmas tradition brought to life, passed down from generation to generation, and shared by a couple from Naples, Maine.

Come, sit in their living room, which has been transformed into a series of miniature Christmas scenes – villages, cities, a school with a children’s playground in the yard, and Santa in his sleigh with musical reindeer ascending into the sky.

Every room in the home illuminates with the joy of the season.

For Scott and Linda Brown, decorating for Christmas time is a delightful activity that they share as a couple.

“We started collecting when we first got married,” Linda said.

While they might feel as busy as Santa’s elves, taking on this seasonal task is something they have not tired of.

“It hasn’t gotten old,” Scott said.

“It’s fun. It is nice sitting here at night with the lights going,” he said.

The lights are pleasant to watch. But, clashing Christmas carols could become a bit irritating, he said.

“The carousels both have music. We keep them down as low as they go because one is playing one song and the other is playing another song,” Scott said.

While it may seem like child’s play, setting up these extensive Christmas scenes involves a lot of work and time.

“It takes three weeks,” to get all the decorations set up and only two days to take them down and box them up in mid-January, Linda said.

After 38 years of doing this, the Browns have a down-pat routine.

“We start setting up before Halloween,” Linda said.

In their garage, there are 15 plastic tubs filled with Christmas knick knacks. There are 60 houses that light up, and each one has its own box.

Every day, Scott retrieves another plastic tub. Every evening, after she completes her shift as a cashier at Tony’s Foodland, she pulls out the contents of another tub, and starts arranging the pieces.

Scott, too, contributes to setting up the miniature towns after putting in his workday. He is employed at Sabre Yachts in Raymond.

The complete transformation is finished

by Thanksgiving. That is when Linda switches out the Thanksgiving Day decorations for the Christmas season place settings.

Each year, the Browns set up the tiny scenes differently than the Christmas before.

“The village set-up changes from year to year,” she said.

WONDERLAND, Page A

A HOME TRANSFORMED — Scott and Linda Brown pose behind a scene from the Christmas villages and decorations that adorn their Naples home this time of year.

(De Busk Photo)

Salmon Pt.

Mushers’ Bowl to be group effort

By Gail Geraghty Staff Writer This year’s Maine Lakes Musher’s Bowl at Five Fields Farm in South Bridgton will go on as planned on Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 25 and 26, under the sponsorship of a new nonprofit organization, Down East Mushers Bowl Inc. Dog sled races have been a tradition in Bridgton since the early 1940s, when they were held on Main Street in Downtown Bridgton. The present-day Mushers Bowl had its genesis in West Bridgton a quarter century ago, when the dogs raced on Moose Pond.

For the past seven years, the Musher’s Bowl has been part of the Greater Bridgton Lakes Region Chamber of Commerce’s Winter Carnival. Chamber officials, however, decided this fall to hold the Winter Carnival over President’s

How much is too much like home?

THE MUSHERS WILL BE RACING at Five Fields Farm on Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 25 and 26 in South Bridgton. The Maine Lakes Mushers Bowl will not, however, be associated with this year’s Winter Carnival, which is being held on Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 15 and 16.

Day Weekend, on Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 15 and 16 — a weekend that presented scheduling conflicts for the Downeast Sled Dog Club.

As members of the International Sled Dog Racing Association, the Down East Sled Dog Club

Clark resigns as Chamber exec

By Gail Geraghty Staff Writer Barbara Clark is resigning her post as executive director of the Greater Bridgton Lakes Region Chamber of Commerce, effective Jan. 10, 2014. Chamber Board President-Elect Madelyn Litz e-mailed chamber members with the news on Friday.

Litz said Clark, who was hired for the post eight months ago, was leaving “due to unforeseen personal issues,” and did not offer any additional explanation. When reached by phone on Friday, Clark declined to elaborate on her reasons, but did say she planned to relocate out of the state.

In her e-mail, Litz said that Chamber Office Manager Sue Mercer will work with others until a new executive director is found. “We are fortunate to have an outstanding office manager and support volunteers that have stepped up to the plate to bridge the absence of our ED until a replacement is secured,” Litz said.

“Sue Mercer is a highly-skilled business professional with many years of management and small business ownership experience,” Litz wrote. Mercer, who began work Sept. 30 as the office manager, has, with her husband Ed, owned and operated Mercer Photography Studio for over 30 years in Massachusetts. They became full-time residents of Naples in 2010.

RESIGNS, Page A

did not want to skip a year in its established scheduling slot of the weekend after Martin Luther King Jr. Day, which this year is Jan. 25 and 26.

“Tom Gyger, in particular, did not want to skip a year,” said Michael Friedman, a local attorney and sled dog enthusiast who formed the nonprofit organization as a hosting entity for the Bridgton event, which draws teams from all over New England who are part of the International Sled Dog Racing Association.

Gyger, the owner of Five Fields Farm, is also a member of the nonprofit, along with Paul and Shirley Field and their daughter Charlotte Carroll. The Fields are members of the South Bridgton Congregational Church, which will be selling hot soups and drinks inside the warming hut during the dog sled races.

People love to see the dogs race, because the sled dogs are happiest when they are working and pulling a sled. Gyger said one of the appeals of the Maine Lakes Mushers Bowl is that spectators have many places from which they can view the dogs and their mushers racing along the trails.

“We have a very spec-

tator-friendly race course,” Gyger said.

The S-curved cross country trails cover hilly terrain that offers a challenging race for the mushers and dogs. Mushers will be racing three-dog junior teams, four-dog or six-dog teams in the races, on trails that cover both the Five Fields Farm property and property owned by the Loon Echo Land Trust.

LELT will also be holding a snowshoe hike over the two-day race. Skijors will participate in one-dog, two-dog or in the recreation class. Skijors use crosscountry skis and a line attached to their dog to race.

There is even an event for youngsters to try the sport.

A 50-yard dash is held for youth to try out the sled with one dog. The South Bridgton Congregational Church will be selling hot soups and drinks inside the warming hut.

Admission is $5, which includes both days of racing and parking. Children ages five and under are free.

Since the event is not being sponsored by the chamber this year, there will be no Winter Carnival Buttons issued to spectators. For more information, visit the club’s website, www.desdc. org

By Gail Geraghty Staff Writer Bridgton Selectmen are trying to create rules that would make sites at the Salmon Point Campground more natural and aesthetically pleasing. But some are questioning whether the board is nit-picking the details to the extent that campers will go elsewhere.

The effort to create a Campsite Limitations Policy comes after years of allowing long-term seasonal campers to add any manner of patios, awnings and screened-in areas beside their campers and RVs, as well as to erect large tents that stay up for months at a time. In some cases the accessory structures have been put up on sites that lie within the Shoreland Zone, which is illegal under state law.

Town Manager Mitch Berkowitz drafted proposed language that the board reviewed at its Dec. 10 meet-

ing. “The issue was, what do you want to allow on the site, and for how long,” he told the board.

For sites in the Shoreland Zone, only the camping unit is allowed, and nothing else; not even a platform for stacking firewood.

For sites outside the Shoreland Zone, the proposed limits were as follows: • Decks should be no longer than the length of the camper, and no wider than 10 feet.

• Screened-in areas should be limited to after-market manufactured units no taller than the camper itself.

• Only one shed is allowed, no larger than 8’x10’, no taller than 12 feet, and set on removable blocks.

• A detached tent may only stay up for seven days to allow for family and guests.

Those returning campers who have structures that exceed the limits under the SALMON, Page A

Neault: ‘Award for all of Naples’

By Dawn De Busk Staff Writer NAPLES — What started out as the transportation department’s bridge project in this pint-sized community has become the ‘talk of the town’ in other parts of the state.

Over the past few years, resident Robert Neault has had the opportunity to show off the results of Bay of Naples Bridge construction project, which included renovations to the surrounding Causeway.

Like a proud parent, he has even pulled out photos, and passed them around.

Neault served as the president of the Causeway Restoration Committee (CRC) during the three-year construction project that was funded by the Maine Department of Transportation AWARD, Page A

The Bridgton News Established 1870

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

Area news

Page A, The Bridgton News, December 26, 2013

Spotlight: Bridgton Health & Residential Care Center

By Gail Geraghty Staff Writer Connie Boschert knew she needed some physical therapy if she wanted to remain independent. Nonetheless, the former Fryeburg branch manager of Norway Savings Bank was filled with anxiety when her daughter drove her up to the entrance to Bridgton Health & Residential Care Center.

“I said, ‘If I can just see one smiling face — one face I recognize, I’ll be okay’,” Boschert said. “And who comes out to greet me but David (Hicks, the owner). From that point on, I said, ‘This is it!’”

Like many people, Boschert held the common misperception that the 186 Portland Road facility was only a nursing home, and not much else. But even if she hadn’t known Hicks (who used to play weekly poker with her husband), Boschert said she’s glad that she chose BHRCC as the place to regain her strength.

“This is a good place, and I’m not just saying that because David’s here,” she said. “Their help is wonderful. I’m really impressed with the cleanliness here — and that’s a big thing to me, you know.”

The West Wing Hicks said a lot of people aren’t aware that BHRCC has a rehabilitation wing, with 13 private rooms served by its own parking area and entrance and a separate social gathering area.

Called the West Wing, the rehab unit operates apart from the long-term care and residential wings, in such a manner that “You wouldn’t know you’re in a nursing home,” said Hicks.

In the West Wing residents, who qualify under Medicaid after a hospitalization or debilitating illness, receive occupational and/or speech therapy as well as skilled nursing care, with

the goal of regaining enough strength to return home.

Melissa Paquet is one of two full-time occupational therapists who divide their time between BHRCC and Hicks’s other facility, the Fryeburg Health & Residential Care Center. On a recent morning, Paquet was busy in the therapy room with several patients doing arm- and leg-strengthening exercises.

“Wheee! Wheee!,” called out a feisty Rowena Davis, as she pumped her arms up and down on a pulley machine. The Cornish resident said she was determined to get strong enough to go home. “I don’t care,” she said when asked if her picture could be taken.

When Hicks kneeled beside her for the photo, she said, “I like your shirt.”

Davis then offered what could only be the highest compliment to a nursing home owner. “If I have to come back, I’ll come back here.”

Because the rehab residents often have underlying illnesses such as dementia, not all of them are able to return home. Some need to transition into assisted living or long-term care. “But it’s nice to have success stories” like Davis, said Hicks.

Swing Beds here, too BHRCC has offered rehab services since the 59-bed facility opened in 1985. It has 30 long-term-care beds, 16 residential care beds and 13 rehab beds. Lately, however, there have been more than a few empty rehab beds, due, in part, to the success of Bridgton Hospital’s Swing Bed Program.

“We’ve always had a good working relationship with Bridgton Hospital, but the competition has been difficult,” said Hicks. Originally, after the hospital was rebuilt, the Swing

MAINTAINING DIGNITY AND PRIDE — David Hicks and Social Worker Libby Graffam show off one of the 13 private rooms in the rehab wing at Bridgton Health & Residential Care Center, which operates much the same as the Swing Bed Program at Bridgton Hospital. Skilled nursing care and speech and physical therapy are provided in order to allow residents to regain the strength, mobility and independence they need to return to their homes.

ATTITUDE IS EVERYTHING — David Hicks, owner of Bridgton Health & Residential Care Center, jokes with Rowena Davis as she strengthens her arms on the pulleys in the physical therapy room. “Oh, I’m going home alright,” said Davis, who lives in Cornish.

Hicks said her positive attitude will get her back in her home after therapy. “It’s nice to have success stories,” Hicks said.

(Geraghty Photos) Bed Program simply allowed the hospital to “swing” its patients from acute care to skilled nursing care. As the program developed, he said, “swing beds became a direct admit from other hospitals,” causing the hospital to be in more direct competition with BHRCC for services. Insurance reimbursement rates are also higher for patients receiving rehab in a hospital than in a skilled care nursing facility.

“It hurts a little bit, you know, especially when we know it was a resident that we could have taken care of here,” said Hicks. “Where we have to break if off is when a patient needs ‘round-the-clock care, with IV antibiotics. We can’t do that.” Hicks said the hospital, at one time, considered construction of a nursing home adjacent to the hospital, but decided on an expansion instead.

“Most of the time we have a lovely working relationship with the hospital,” said Hicks.

BHRCC contracts with the hospital for its speech therapy services, and the hospital has donated recliners it not longer needed. “That’s why I don’t pick on the hospital too bad; they take good care of us.”

All in the family Hicks is a decidedly hands-on style of administrator. He does his best to get to know residents personally, and is often seen visiting in their rooms or roaming the halls. The environment is second nature to Hicks, who grew up in the business.

His grandmother Wilma began it all back in 1952, when she took three people into her Auburn home to take care of in order to pay the bills. She didn’t like living in the city, though, so she bought the Blake House on Oxford Street in Fryeburg, which had been run as a birthing center, Hicks said.

With Hicks’s mother Erna, they filled all the rooms and all their time taking care of up to 36 residents in what became known as the Hicks Nursing Home. “I grew up taking trays to the residents, as a preschooler all the way through school,” he said. The family built the Fryeburg Health Care Center in 1977, which, as with the Bridgton facility, added “Residential” to its name in the mid-1990s when nursing home rules changed to make it easier for people to qualify for residential, or assisted living, levels of care.

After his grandmother’s death in 1971, Hicks moved back to Fryeburg from Boston, Mass., where he was working as an accountant.

He met his wife Elaine, who owned a nursing home in Freeport, and together they opened the Bridgton facility in 1985. The family also owns the Auburn Residential Care Center.

“I’ve been a licensed nursing home administrator for 42 years and have grown up with it since 1954,” said Hicks. “So I don’t know how to do anything else.”

Despite his experience, Hicks said it was still devastating for him when it came time to put his own mother Erna, who had developed Alzheimer’s disease, into an assisted living facility in Florida. “It was the hardest thing I’ve ever had to do, and doing this every day, you’d think I’d have all the answers.”

She stayed at the Auburn facility until she started wandering off, then was transferred to Bridgton. Hicks said he needn’t have worried about her making the transition. “My mother would sit in her wheelchair at the nurse’s station as if she was still running the place,” he said. “She wheeled herself around the facility, and she would fire somebody if she didn’t like them.”

Calls ‘flood’ in over FEMA flood plain fiasco

By Gail Geraghty Staff Writer At the risk of a bad pun, calls are “flooding” in to Bridgton Selectmen from residents wanting to know why the town isn’t taking the lead role in challenging the new flood zone elevations proposed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

Both Bernie King and Doug Taft said they’ve gotten numerous calls from residents asking if the town

plans to help them mount an official challenge to new DFirm FEMA maps delineating revised Base Flood Plain Elevations.

Town Manager Mitch Berkowitz said the information “is still evolving,” and acknowledged that the town does have a strong reason for ensuring that the maps are accurate.

“Our downtown is in a potential area that could be inundated by a major flood,”

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said Berkowitz, according to the maps. But he asked for residents to be patient, because much will depend on what the town learns from FEMA in a meeting on Jan. 8 that will be attended by Code Enforcement Officer Robbie Baker and Executive Assistant Georgiann Fleck.

Resident Glen “Bear” Zaidman questioned the fairness of changes that put the burden of proof — and the cost — on landowners. An

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“Robbie is going to the meeting on Jan. 8 to find out how to protest this, if there is a way that doesn’t cost the town a lot of money. Flood insurance is very expensive,” said Zaidman.

The town of Scarborough has decided to formally advocate on behalf of property owners in their town, and have established a fund of $300,000 for that purpose, he said, but Scarborough has a great deal of valuable land on or near the flood zone.

Berkowitz said he has not included any money in the upcoming budget to review the accuracy of the FEMA maps.

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Insurance is significantly more expensive for property in the flood zone, and building restrictions are another reason why it is in a resident’s best interest to have their property excluded from a flood zone designation if possible, he said.

But the reasoning must be scientifically based, by hiring a licensed surveyor to plot elevations. Berkowitz clarified one misperception by saying that the 90-day comment period has not yet begun, but will begin some time in the spring.

He also said that a property owner has a better chance of convincing FEMA to exclude their land if he or she can show that their primary residence is not in the flood zone, even if a portion of their property is within the flood zone. “You have a better chance, but you still have to read the fine print (of home loans) as mortgage

companies could still require flood insurance.”

Berkowitz promised to keep residents informed of any new information as it becomes available.

In a related matter, Bridgton Selectmen discussed a request by the Gilroy Trust to create a berry garden on either side of Corn Shop Brook on Depot Street.

After Baker told the trust the land was in the Shoreland Zone, the request was withdrawn.

Berkowitz said the trust is still on track to create a community garden by leasing land on Park Street, where there is sufficient land beyond the 75-foot setback line to plant the garden. He also said that the existing community garden beside the Bridgton Community Center also appears to be within the setback limits, and does not need to be altered.

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December 26, 2013, The Bridgton News, Page A

Bob Neault: ‘Award for all of Naples’ (Continued from Page A) (MDOT). He is also a lawyer by occupation with his practice located in Naples.

“As part of my job, I travel the whole state. I have been in district courts in communities from Portland to Belfast,” he said.

“People say, ‘You’re from Naples. What is going on?’ I started keeping photographs in my briefcase so when they asked, I could show them,” he said.

Recently, there has been another milestone — an award for the years-long project.

The Sebago Lakes Region Chamber of Commerce (SLRCC) has announced the winners of its annual awards. For his part in the Naples construction project, Neault is being awarded as The Community Service Leadership Person of the Year.

“This award is really humbling,” Neault said.

“This project took on a life of its own because of the people involved,” he said, adding, “I would not be receiving this if it weren’t for the people I was working with.’

“So many people were involved in this,” Neault said. “This is an award for

the whole team,” he said.

“Receiving this award will help to drive us forward as we complete the features that we’d like to add to the project,” he said.

Neault views this award as an opportunity to put the limelight on the continuing improvements to the Naples Causeway.

“This is an ongoing project. There are still opportunities for people to be involved. A lot of the fundraising is happening through Naples Main Street, and there are openings for more people to join that group,” Neault said.

Attending the awards banquet will also be a great time to reflect on what has already taken place on the Naples Causeway.

The SLRCC awards ceremony will be held on Jan. 9 at Spring Meadows Golf Club in Gray.

“I am grateful for the chamber for making this recognition,” he said.

Neault said he could not calculate how many hours per week that he worked on issues related to the Bay of Naples Bridge project. “It is amazing all the engineering stuff I have a grasp of that I never had before,” Neault said.

“My staff — here at the office — they were struggling to deal with the amount of time I spent on the bridge project,” he said.

He has been thankful for the patience and support of his family as well as his office staff during the past four years since he stepped forward as CRC’s president.

“That was an appointment,” Neault said.

He had attended several Naples Board of Selectmen workshops during the time the project was being discussed. The board decided to create a committee. The town advertised for the open positions, and board members informally interviewed people.

“At the first meeting, Bob Caron Sr. turned and said, ‘You are the best choice for chairman,’ ” Neault said.

“My response was this: ‘Look, I am willing to do this. But, I will do it only if we go into it as a true partnership with DOT,” he said.

“So, DOT had representation on the committee and voting rights,” he said.

The MDOT employees who worked with residents from Naples on the project include: Dave Sherlock, Jim Wentworth and Craig Hurd.

“They were present at

every meeting; and, they had the right to participate in the discussions and vote on any issue,” he said. “Also, they had expertise about what can and can’t be done.

They contributed ideas to the improvements,” he said.

There were many examples of how the states plans were incorporated with what the citizens thought might work.

“The original intent was to build a temporary bridge on the Brandy Pond side, and bring it back onto Route 302. That would have been $2 million on a structure that would be torn down,” he said.

“We said, ‘Bring the new bridge onto the other side, and bring it onto the Causeway.’ That was $2 million on the project that we saved and were able to spend on other” aspects of the project, Neault said.

“That decision was crucial to the formation of the seawall and the creation of a new land area, where the boardwalk is now,” he said.

The construction project has been results-based. Once something was completed, people could see the difference in real life, in a photograph.

“There were a lot of

By Gail Geraghty Staff Writer Bridgton Selectmen have appointed Greg Watkins, Rosie Schacht, Mike Tarantino and Madelyn Litz to a committee that will review and grade applications for Community Development Block Grant funds for next year.

Selectmen will make the final decision after the

CDBG Committee completes its work and the required public hearing is held. Anne Krieg, Bridgton’s director of planning, economic and community development, has set dates for two workshops next month to help individuals and nonprofit organizations prepare applications.

The first workshop will be held on Tuesday, Jan. 7, from 4 to 6 p.m., with the second

workshop to be held Tuesday, Jan. 14, at 9 a.m. Both will take place at the Bridgton Municipal Complex.

At a recent meeting, Selectman Bob McHatton asked Krieg to include all proposed municipal uses of CDBG funds when she submits the committee’s recommendations on project applications. He said he questions whether some of the smaller building projects approved in prior years were the best use of the CDBG funds.

With an overall list showing a complete breakdown of

how the town’s annual allotment of CDBG money is to be spent, McHatton said he could make a more informed decision.

In a related matter, selectmen awarded the bid for the Depot Street streetscape design to the engineering firm of Milone & McBroom of Portland. The firm will prepare construction drawings and specifications for signage, sidewalks, lighting and tree-planting planned for next summer to make the upper part of Depot Street aesthetically pleasing.

Depot Street bid awarded

Clark resigns (Continued from Page A)

Litz said Mercer “has agreed to help our chamber run ‘business as usual’ during this interim period. With the support and expertise of our chamber directors, we are sure to keep providing our members with the service and support they deserve.”

Clark said the chamber’s officers, acting as the executive committee, are in the process of putting together a search committee. Clark said it is “possible” that a new executive director will be able to be hired prior to her Barbara Clark departure in mid-January.

Prior to becoming executive director of the Greater Bridgton Lakes Region Chamber, Clark was executive director of the Sebago Lakes Region Chamber of Commerce for nine years. She served on the Lakes Region Development Council and the Windham Economic Development Corporation and was active in local Naples issues, including the milfoil problem at Songo Lock and reconstruction of the Naples Causeway. Before moving to Naples, Clark was a 14-year senior manager at AT&T. Clark was hired to succeed Jim Mains, who served for three and a half years as head of the chamber. Mains, who is credited with getting the chamber back on its feet after a period of instability, left to become general manager of the Bridgton Highlands Country Club.

Water truck slides off road

BALDWIN — A Poland Springs tractor-trailer water tanker went off Route 113 by Rocky Dunn Road in Baldwin on Monday at 3:57 p.m.

The driver was identified as David Nelson, 46. Nelson was traveling south on Route 113 and as he was negotiating a curve in the road he lost control of the vehicle on ice.

The vehicle went off the right side of the road, traveled 360 feet into the ditch and rolledover. The impact crushed the cab around Nelson.

Baldwin Fire Department and Standish Fire/Rescue responded. The driver was extricated in about 30 min-

utes. Nelson was transported to Maine Medical Center with nonlife-threatening injuries.

The cause of the accident remains under investigation.

Speed and alcohol are not factors in the crash. No criminal charges have been filed at this time.

Route 113, in the area of the crash, was closed, while rescue personnel extracted the driver of the truck.

‘wow’ moments at every stage: When the bridge was completed, when I was looking at what they had to do underneath the bridge, when they were getting ready to place concrete for the bridge and the seawall,” he said.

“I appreciated the dedication of MDOT and the dedication of Wyman and Simpson and their employees, out there in the blowing cold, creating the bridge and other infrastructure,” Neault said.

“As a committee, we worked long and hard on selecting lights. When those lights came on and we could see the effect of LED lights – that was a ‘wow’ moment,” he said.

“The ultimate had to be the flag on the scenic vista.

We had plans for it early on. When the construction started in that area, Craig (Hurd) came to us and said, ‘If we are going to do it, now’s the time. This is our project, too. We want to do it right,’ ” he said.

Later, Naples Fire Department Chief Chris Pond was trying to figure out where to place a flag pole for a garrison flag. The town dock was being considered.

Once suggested, the scenic

Robert Neault vista became the best option.

One day, a group of fire and rescue volunteers pitched in to help erect the pole and test out the new flag.

“Again, it was a concept, and to see it fulfilled, to see the flag unfurled for first time, it caught my breath,” he said.

“It was an amazing sight,” Neault said.

“Another more personal moment was the amphitheater space. That was my concept, my baby. I think it adds tremendous flexibility,” he said.

“What Wyman & Simpson and Kent Cooper (MDOT landscaper) did to create that space. To me, it was just so perfect,” Neault said.

MAKING A SPECIAL APPEARANCE — Looked who recently joined the Fryeburg Police Department in its efforts to enforce the 15-mile per hour limit in the school zone on Route 302 near Molly Ockett Middle School!

Fryeburg Police reminding travelers that the speed limit during school hours in designated zones is 15 miles per hour. The fines for speeding in a school zone range from $228 to $516. Pictured is SAD 72 crossing guard James Thivierge, who is joyfully assisting children across busy Route 302 during this holiday season. “We are not sure if it is his signs, attire or bright lights slowing traffic down, but it seems to be working,” said FPD Sergeant Joshua Potvin. “We want to ensure the safety of our students during this holiday season by reminding drivers to slow down and obey school zone speed limits.”

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His company provides grant writing services, water testing and erosion control assistance to towns, lake and river associations and nonprofit organizations. He wrote the $60,000 Department of Environmental Protection grant, coordinated the 2012 Woods Pond Watershed Survey, and volunteers on the Woods Pond Water Quality Committee.

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Page A, The Bridgton News, December 26, 2013

Area news

Bald Peak snowshoe hike Loon Echo Land Trust invites the public to a snowshoe hike on Pleasant Mountain’s Bald Peak Trail on Saturday, Dec. 28, at 9 a.m.

Try out those new snowshoes and work off a little Christmas turkey at the same time. Hardy trekkers should meet at the Bald Peak trailhead on Mountain Road in Bridgton at 8:45 a.m. Parking alongside Mountain Road is limited, carpooling is encouraged.

This will be a strenuous hike requiring proper winter clothing (no cotton), boots, fluids and food. Conditions may require snowshoes, traction devices, hiking poles and extra provisions.

The first mile includes a 1,400-foot elevation gain

with the round trip totaling three miles, taking approximately five hours.

Time and conditions permitting, you will visit the Needles Eye waterfall, the Big Bald Peak and the Red Pine Woodland at the North Peak before descending via Sue’s Way Trail.

In the event of heavy snow or extreme cold, the hike will be canceled. Bring your camera as there will be great photo opportunities.

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

Currently, Loon Echo protects over 5,600 acres

CMP alert on payment scam Central Maine Power Company (CMP), a subsidiary of Iberdrola USA, is renewing its warnings about fraudulent schemes to collect payments from utility customers.

People claiming to represent CMP have been calling customers and demanding immediate payment. Some instruct customers to deposit cash or a money order into bogus accounts through convenience store cash transfer systems.

Others try to get customers to call a specified number and provide financial information for the payment. The caller has tried to work his deception mostly on the owners of small businesses and restaurants in the Lewiston-Auburn, Portland and Augusta areas, but some residential customers have also reported receiving these suspicious calls.

CMP renews its alert customers about this scam and offers these tips to keep account information secure: • CMP will not call a customer for payment if his or her account is in good standing; • Customers who need to make an urgent payment should do so only through the CMP website, or at one of the payment agents listed on the website at www.cmpco. com • Customers who have any questions about a call for an overdue payment are urged to contact CMP by calling 1-800-750-4000.

Offering Figure Skating Lessons at the Bridgton Academy Ice Rink Saturdays from 9 to 10 a.m.

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Head Coach: Laurie Green REGISTRATION ONGOING For more info. call 655-2774 or visit us on facebook.com

A comprehensive eye exam will diagnose eye problems like astigmatism, cataracts, and farsightedness to name a few, but did you know that an eye exam can go a long way in detecting other health concerns like diabetes and high blood pressure?

PROMOTED — The Town of Raymond Fire-Rescue Department is pleased to announce the promotion of Andrew Jordan from firefighter to lieutenant. Andrew has been a member of the department for nine years, starting as a junior, moving to a live-in student firefighter and then a firefighter. He is the grandson of longtime community volunteer and Fire Police Captain Jane Jordan. This promotion took place on Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2013 at the department’s annual Christmas gathering. Chief Bruce Tupper cited that, “It has been a pleasure to watch Andrew’s progress, and I am confident that he will be successful in his new leadership role.

Plan ahead for power outages The Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (ME-CDC) is advising people to make a plan to safely use portable generators.

“During and after ice storms, we are highly concerned about people getting very sick or dying from carbon monoxide poisoning because of improper use of gas-powered generators — especially because a little planning can prevent such tragedy,” said ME-CDC Director, Dr. Sheila Pinette.

“People may be tempted to run gas-powered generators in the basement or garage but this is extremely dangerous,” warned Dr. Pinette. “One generator can produce as much carbon monoxide gas as 100 idling cars.”

People should always use generators outside and make sure that it is placed at least 15 feet from windows or doors.

It’s a good idea to check now, before the power goes out, to make sure your extension cord is long enough.

Every home should also have a carbon monoxide detector that can run on batteries. ME-CDC estimates that only about half of Maine homes have carbon monoxide detectors.

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas formed when burning most types of fuels. Using gaspowered generators, charcoal grills, and gas grills can cause poisoning if CO gas builds-up in enclosed or semi-enclosed spaces, even if windows and doors are left open. Warning signs of CO poisoning are flu symptoms like headache, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, drowsiness, and confusion, but no fever. Carbon monoxide poisoning can cause loss of consciousness and death.

A ME-CDC study of a carbon monoxide poisoning in the aftermath of the January 1998 ice storm found that improper placement of a gasoline generator, such as in a basement or garage, could increase the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning by 20to 300-fold. When the power went out for several days after Tropical Storm Irene in August 2011, carbon monoxide poisoning was the cause of two deaths and four nonfatal poisonings in Maine. In each case, the carbon monoxide came from improper use of generators.

How to Prevent CO Poisoning Place generator outdoors in the fresh air. Keep

PORTLAND — Be bold in the cold with a plunge and/or a walk or run in Portland’s East End to support the Natural Resources Council of Maine’s work to reduce climate-changing pollution.

Pre-register online at: http://nrcm.kintera.org/dipdash Registration for the event opens at 9:30 a.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 31 at the Back Cove parking area (across from Hannaford). The 5K begins at 11 a.m. and the dip will be at noon — the “warmest” part of the day! A shuttle will return you to your car after the dip at East End Beach. More information: http://nrcm.kintera.org/dipdash

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800-222-1222) or your doctor after you leave the house.

• Do not go back into the building until the fire department tells you it is safe.

House sales

The coming of winter has not dampened Maine’s end-of-year real estate market. Maine Listings reports an increase of 2.65% in the sales of single-family existing homes during the month of November.

The median sales price (MSP) for the 1,086 homes sold rose 1.6% to $175,000.

The MSP indicates that half of the homes were sold for more and half sold for less.

According to the National Association of Realtors ® , sales nationwide dipped a slight 0.9%, while the national MSP reached $196,200 — a jump of 9.4%%. The Northeast region witnessed a 6.6% rise in sales over the past 12 months, and the regional MSP increased 5.7% to $242,900.

(BRIDGTON NEWS CORPORATION) Established 1870

P.O. BOX 244 • BRIDGTON, ME 04009 207-647-2851 207-647-8166 Fax: 207-647-5001 general email: bnews@roadrunner.com editor email: bnewseditor@roadrunner.com display advertising email: bnewsads@roadrunner.com website: bridgton.com Publisher & Editor.............................................Wayne E. Rivet Staff Writers...............................Gail Geraghty, Dawn De Busk Advertising Manager.........................................Gail A. Stretton Assistant Advertising Manager...................Eric C. Gulbrandsen Circulation & Classified.........................Elaine Rioux, Manager Production......................................Sonja Millett, Brad Hooper ...........................................................................Lorena Plourd The Bridgton News (USPS 065-020) is published Thursdays at 118 Main Street, Bridgton, Maine. Periodicals class postage at Bridgton, Maine. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Bridgton News, P.O. Box 244, Bridgton, ME 04009

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it at least 15 feet from windows or doors. Do not put a generator in a closed or partly closed space, like a basement, cellar bulkhead, or attached garage. Carbon monoxide can build up to dangerous levels in these spaces.

Make a plan for how to keep your generator dry and protected from ice and snow so you are not tempted to bring it inside a garage or other enclosed structure.

Generators also pose a risk of shock and electrocution, especially in wet conditions.

Dry your hands before touching a generator.

Do not use outdoor cooking devices, such as grills or camp stoves, indoors.

Place a carbon monoxide detector that is battery powered (or has battery back-up power) outside each sleeping area. CO detectors are in most stores. Look for the UL mark with the “Single Station Carbon Monoxide Alarm” statement.

If You Suspect CO Poisoning • Leave the house at once.

• Call the fire department or 911.

• Get medical attention.

Call the Poison Center (1-

Polar Dip Dec. 31 THE BRIDGTON NEWS

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of land, and Pleasant Mountain Preserve is one of seven preserves that are open to the public. Other Loon Echo preserves include Bald Pate Mountain in Bridgton; Mayberry Hill Preserve in Casco; Hacker’s Hill in Casco; Sylvan Woods in Harrison; Sebago Headwaters Preserve in Bridgton; Perley Mills Community Forest in Denmark, Sebago and Bridgton. Loon Echo currently maintains more than 20 miles of multi-use trails at these preserves.

Loon Echo hikes are free, however donations are always welcome and help the stewardship efforts at the preserves.

Find out more about Loon Echo by visiting www.loonecholandtrust. org.

For more information about Loon Echo events, contact Jon Evans at jon@ lelt.org or call (207) 6474352. Don’t forget to like Loon Echo on Facebook!

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Celebrating 52 Years of Service to the Lake Region area

ADVERTISING DEADLINES

Nothing makes us gladder than to spend the holiday season right here among our neighbors and friends, and nothing makes us feel more blessed than to know we have your loyal support.

DISPLAY AD DEADLINE IS FRIDAYS AT 4:00 P.M. CLASSIFIED LINE ADS IS MONDAYS AT 5:00 P.M.

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They are available at The Bridgton News office on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays.

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Area news

December 26, 2013, The Bridgton News, Page A

App tracks teen driving time Secretary of State Matthew Dunlap recently announced the launch of an extension to The Parent’s Supervised Driving Program, a new mobile app titled RoadReady™.

The app, sponsored

by Ford Motor Company, is designed to augment the program in its mission to address a need to improve roadway safety and teen driving behaviors.

RoadReady™ is currently available on the App Store at no charge and will be made available to Android users in 2014.

“It’s a great feeling to be arming parents and teens with a technologically-advanced, free toolkit that encourages their participation in the teen driver education process,” said Secretary Dunlap.

“Not only are we providing parents of permitted teens with a guide to assist them through the state required 70 hours of supervised driving, but this new mobile app RoadReady™ will help parents to track the actual time they spent behind the wheel with their teen.”

Parents of teens obtaining their learner’s permit are given a copy of The Parent’s Supervised Driving Program by their driving instructor at the conclusion of the required parental involvement component of driver education. The program focuses on the role of the parent in the teen driver education process and is provided at no cost to families or to taxpayers thanks to sponsorship by Ford Motor Company with support from Vermont Mutual Insurance and Irving Oil. Studies show that parents have a tendency to overestimate the amount of time they spend driving with their teen. RoadReady™ eliminates the question of overestimated time and

allows parents and teens to focus on driving skills, roadway conditions and enhanced experiences as the app automatically and accurately tracks their time together.

RoadReady™ also offers educational features, such as tips and suggestions to assist parents throughout the supervised driving process and tracks roadway types and weather conditions to encourage parents and teens to spend more time driving together in a variety of conditions. The app offers the ability to print a driving log with a list of all supervised driving sessions, which can be returned to the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) upon applying for a road test.

For more information on The Parent’s Supervised Driving Program please go to: www.theparentssuperviseddrivingprogram.com

HELPING TO STOCK THE SHELVES — The Rotary Club of Bridgton-Lake Region hosted members of six local food pantries at their Dec. 19 meeting, where they were recognized for the good work they do in their respective communities. Members of the Harrison Food Pantry, St. Joseph’s Food Pantry, Sweden Food Pantry and CrossWalk Community Outreach were in attendance. Not pictured were members of Brownfield Food Pantry and Bridgton Food Pantry. A total of $2,000 was recently donated to these organizations. The Bridgton-Lake Region Rotary Club, a nonprofit service organization, helps local communities’ youth, elderly, veterans and others worldwide in need of food, utilities, education and access to health care and other services by providing financial support and engaging in hands-on projects. The club serves Bridgton, Denmark, Harrison, Naples and Sweden.

Watch out for phony Obamacare cards Consumers across the United States are reporting phone calls that claim to be from the government about new health insurance cards required by the Affordable Care Act (ACA).

Better Business Bureau is warning consumers that this is a scam, and it’s growing as the Oct. 1 implementation date for the Health Insurance Marketplace approaches.

“Con artists are taking advantage of people’s confusion about what exactly the Affordable Care Act means for them,” says Carrie A. Hurt, president and CEO of the Council of Better Business Bureaus. “Scammers’ favorite tools are confusion and fear.”

“This is the latest twist on the ‘Medicare scam’ that BBB has seen for years,” she noted. “Whenever there is

a new government program or new public policy, fraudsters will take advantage of people. But the simple fact is there is no Affordable Care card. It’s a scam.”

BBB has issued several Scam Alerts warning consumers about scams related to “Obamacare,” but is stepping up efforts as the implementation date approaches.

Here’s how the scam works. You receive a call from someone claiming to be from the federal government. The caller informs you that you’ve been selected as part of the initial group of Americans to receive insurance cards through the new Affordable Care Act. However, before the caller can mail your card, they need to verify personal information, such as your bank account and Social Security

numbers.

BBB urges consumers to ignore these pitches and use the follow precautions when dealing with this type of scam: Be cautious with your identity. Never give personal information to someone who has contacted you unsolicited, whether by phone, e-mail, social media or in person.

Hang up, don’t press any buttons and don’t call back.

Returning the phone call may just give the con artist information he can use.

The government uses regular mail. Government agencies normally communicate through the mail, so be cautious of calls, text messages or emails.

Don’t trust caller ID. Scammers have technology that lets them display any number or organization name

dred paying customers that seemed to enjoy the event immensely. We had everything from racecars and racing parts, vintage cars and parts, to items from people’s basements and attics. A lot of items were sold and that’s what it’s all about. We even had one race team sell their Super Late Model and their enclosed hauler!”

The dates for the 2014 event are as follows: Friday, Oct. 24, Flea Market registration and set-

up, noon to 5 p.m.

Saturday, Oct. 25, Flea Market Day, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Sunday, Oct. 26, Flea Market Day 2, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

For more information as it becomes available, visit

the track website at www. oxfordplains.com or call the OPS hotline at 539-8865.

The Oxford Plains Speedway winter office hours are Wednesday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Oxford Plains Speedway is located on Route 26 in Oxford.

OPS Swap, Flea Market to return OXFORD — Oxford Plains Speedway President Tom Mayberry has recently announced that the Annual Swap Meet and Flea Market will once again take place in the fall of 2014 here at Oxford Plains Speedway.

“I am very excited about our inaugural event that took place this past October,” Mayberry said. “It was a very well attended event for the first time that we tried it. We had over fifty vendors and over fifteen hun-

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Unemployment drops

Governor Paul R. LePage announced last week that the unemployment rate for November has fallen to 6.4%, the third consecutive monthly drop since September and the lowest rate since 2008.

The unemployment rate fell to 6.9% in September, dropped to 6.7% in October and then dropped again to 6.4% in November. One year ago in November, the rate was 7.2%.

“We have been working hard for three years to improve the business climate in Maine so our companies can do what they do best: create jobs,” said the governor. “We have reduced taxes, cut red tape, streamlined regulations and made fiscally responsible decisions to right-size government. All of these factors make Maine more competitive in attracting and retaining jobs.”

According to the federal Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of unemployed people in Maine has fallen by 5,400 from this time last year.

November was the 74th consecutive month Maine had a higher share of employed population than the nation (61.2% vs. 58.6%). Maine’s share of employed population continues to rise; the U.S. employed share has not improved in four years. The state’s unemployment rate remains below that of the nation.

“The nation’s unemployment rate remains high because of the broken system in Washington, D.C., which has resulted in $17 trillion of debt, unbalanced budgets, high taxes and uncertainty in the marketplace,” said Governor LePage.

“Now, Obamacare is crushing small businesses and the middle class. These job-killing efforts are the exact opposite of what a government should be doing to increase employment. Our state is working hard to mitigate these effects in Maine to help our businesses be more competitive.”

“Career politicians don’t know how to create jobs,” the governor added. “I spent my entire career in business, and I understand what companies need to succeed. When businesses succeed, Maine families benefit from the good-paying jobs they provide.”

The governor highlighted the world-class companies that have created jobs in Maine over the past few months, including Louisiana-Pacific Corporation, Barclaycards, Irving Forest Products, Ameridial, Eimskip, Tempus Jets, Maine RATE, Page A

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A Christmas wonderland (Continued from Page A) Scott adds to her statement.

“One year, it was in another corner. We try to alternate spaces to set it up differently,” he said.

Linda pointed out the various scenes.

“The school yard is at the bottom. There is the country on one side; the city is on the other wall. And over here are the winter fun scenes like the ski gondola and the snowy things,” she said.

Scott sat on the floor and started the train that travels around the fairground in the middle. There is a mirrored moving merry-go-round that they won at a Chinese auction.

“The set of flying reindeer is about 60 years old.

It belonged to my aunt and uncle,” Linda said.

“My aunt and uncle had a big Christmas village. We used to go there when our boys were little. So, maybe, that is where the idea came from,” she said.

“We started out with a few items when the boys were little. We just put them around the tree on the floor. We started out with about a dozen,” Linda said.

“Then, the kids would buy us new ones,” she said.

“So would our friends,” she said.

“We really expanded after the boys left home,” she said.

“We just started added pieces,” Linda said.

She said many purchases were made in the 1970s and ‘80s at department stores like

Ames and Bradley’s.

“We quit putting up a big tree. We chose to keep three fiber optic trees – the ones we like the best,” she said.

The couple rearranges the furniture to make room. An end table from their bedroom has become incorporated into the land for a village.

Meanwhile, a table in the backroom is reserved for the tiny houses that Linda saw and admired as a young girl growing up.

“My parents did a small miniature village,” she said.

Most people could tell stories about their most nostalgic items. The Browns can recall where they purchased each Christmas decoration, and which ones were gifts.

Over the years, they have purchased backdrops — like miniature versions of the backgrounds that are used during theater productions — in North Woodstock, N.H., North Conway and in Tennessee, where they vacationed last year. Four clear plastic trees slowly change colors; those were purchases from Rite Aid in Naples.

Linda’s girlfriend handcrafted two wooden Christmas trees, which are painted ‘evergreen’ with white snow.

Also, Linda has collected about a half-dozen animated toys like a singing angel, a dancing Santa, and a skiing snowman.

Scott said the plan for 2013 was to refrain from buying anything new. However, three illuminated houses managed to make it into their home.

A TRADITION THAT CONTIUES TO GO AROUND — Scott and Linda Brown won this carousel at a Chinese auction. It is among the memorable pieces that make up the miniature Christmas scenes decorating their home.

Salmon Point (Continued from Page A) policy will be allowed to keep their site as is, until the end of next summer. Then they must be removed or modified to meet the same rules as new campers who sign a lease with the town for the summer.

The policy gives the town’s recreation director the authority to approve or deny accessory structures. At some of the private campgrounds visited by Selectmen Bernie King and Bob McHatton, the town’s code enforcement officer holds the decisionmaking authority, McHatton pointed out.

Selectman Paul Hoyt, who recused himself from the board for the discussion because he owns a site at Salmon Point, said he had concerns that the rules were too technical for the average summer camper who has come, after all, to relax.

Some seasonal campers, for example, build a platform to stack their supply of wood for the summer. Under the rules, such a platform would not be allowed.

Recreation Director Gary Colello agreed with Hoyt, saying he was worried “if RUNNING THE CHRISTMAS RAILROAD — Scott Brown turns on the battery-oper- we’re going to nit-pick so ated train that runs through the miniature Christmas scenes that he and his wife Linda much we’re going to lose have set up in their living room.

(De Busk Photos) campers out of this.” Colello suggested he be given the “Our sons have villages in authority to use his discretheir homes, and they collect tion when deciding whether the houses. But, nothing like a campsite was looking too this,” Linda said. busy.

Now, the Browns’ sons are But Selectman Chairman raising families of their own Doug Taft said, “With all due in Indiana. respect, but that’s a policy Possibly, not having two issue.” boys in the house has allowed them to expand the space and number of Christmas decorations.

The couple does have a cat. Surprisingly, that feline does not un-do all their work, nor does she play with any of the mouse-sized, moving (Continued from Page A) decorations.

Wood Products, Molnlycke There is an exception: The Health Care and many othmagnetic people that stand ers. around the merry-go-round “These companies recogseem to attract the cat. So, nize the great strides our Linda placed them back in a administration has made to box on the shelf. transform Maine state govWith that attraction gone, ernment from an adversary the cat just watches the lights into a partner with a ‘can and takes a leisurely stroll do’ attitude that moves at around the outside of the the speed of business,” said train tracks, without knocking the governor. “Our prodown anything. growth, pro-business poliWhat a good cat. cies have made it easier for One would think that they them to create more jobs for are paying a massive bill to Mainers.” the local electric company, For a comprehensive list Central Maine Power (CMP). of public policies, including In fact, they only plug in those that have encouraged the cords and sit back to enjoy PASSED FROM GENERATION TO GENERATION job growth, visit the Office their labor of love a few hours — Naples resident Linda Brown holds in her hand a min- of the Governor website and in the evening. iature Christmas home that was in her home when she click on the “Moving Maine “It is nice to just sit here was a little girl.

Forward” booklet. with it lit up,” Scott said.

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Page A, The Bridgton News, December 26, 2013

Area news

Community

December 26, 2013, The Bridgton News, Page B

Donut shop hopes to fill hole

By Dawn De Busk Staff Writer RAYMOND — Like the shape of the donuts he bakes, Bruce Wiley’s career choice has travelled full circle.

His very first job at age 13 was under the tutelage of a man known as “Gentleman John,” who operated a seasonal donut shop in Naples.

Later, while still a teenager, he learned more about the art of homemade donut-making at a Windham-based business.

Now, as Wiley’s age is near the half-century mark, he has embarked on a wellthought-out plan to bring fresh, delicious donuts to the region’s residents.

“No matter what, people are always happy when they get a donut,” he said.

“People will smile. Kids will jump up and down” as they eye a favorite flavor of donut in the big glass case.

On Sept. 28, Wiley and his family opened the Village Donut Shop and Bakery in Raymond.

Wiley’s goal is to create the delicacies that delight the taste buds.

“The older folks who come in tend to go for the old-fashioned because that is what their parents made,” Wiley said.

The Village Donut Shop “is going to be grandma’s bakery, not a yuppie place with high-priced donuts, and espresso and lattes,” he said, adding he has been able to keep his donut prices to 75 cents each.

“I wanted to get recipes that have been handed down from family to family — that is what we wanted it to be,” he said.

Also, he hopes his business will fill a hole — offering handmade donuts in a world of franchise chain companies that ship in the edible product.

“Another reason that I decided to open a donut shop: There is nothing between North Conway and Windham that has fresh-made donuts, donuts made in-house. I am not saying that there isn’t one. But, I haven’t seen one; and I have looked around,” he said.

As was the case during his childhood days, Wiley’s brother is by his side. Todd Wiley is the primary donut maker because Bruce has not yet transitioned into the business full-time.

In fact, Wiley still works Monday through Friday as a foreman at P&K Sand and Gravel.

So, on Saturdays he puts in his long and happy shift at the Village Donut Shop.

In addition to his brother Todd, other employees include Penny Belyea, weekday cashier; Emily Allen, weekend cashier; and Theresa Egan, baker.

Wiley’s parents, Dean and Carolyn Wiley who live in Naples, have been an incredible support system for Bruce.

On a daily basis, they can be seen in the shop located kittycorner from the Raymond Shopping Mall.

“My mother and father are integral to this operation.

They do everything and anything to help,” he said.

“My parents have put in a lot of time and effort. My folks were crucial because I am doing my other job,” he said.

During renovations of what was once a machine shop in Raymond, Bruce put up the sheet rock while his parents were tasked with the seam taping.

“They did the mudding and the painting,” he said.

His parents actually helped him land that first job, when the state plates on a vehicle prompted a conversation with a business owner. His parents had lived and worked in Maryland; and John Portier, who owned a Naples bakery, had Maryland plates on his car.

“As a kid 13 years old, I worked for Gentleman John’s Donut Shop. He took me in. I was just a kid,” he said.

“I started out with filling the donuts. I worked there for a few summers. Then, I worked at Donut Haven in Windham, starting at 11 p.m. and working through 11 a.m.,” he said.

“So, I had a background in donut-making, and I knew I could do it,” he said.

“Plus, after being in the

YES, DONUTS HERE! — The addition of the simple sign, DONUTS, under the familiar Engine Works logo still has many people mystified. Once through the door, they discover wonderful donuts, made by hand, the old-fashioned way.

“Basically, I gave them a one-year notice,” he said.

Despite trying to exit a job that requires working outdoors as well as leaving behind the construction busi-

4:15 A.M. While they are still warm, Penny Belyea coats the glazed donuts

4 A.M. Todd Wiley flipping the donuts in the fryer, one at a time. When he arrives at midnight, Todd begins the making of the yeast dough. He then makes the cake donuts while the dough is rising. By 4 a.m., he is ready to fry the first batch of the light, flaky donuts.

(Photos by Jim Brake)

construction business for years, working outdoors in the winter is something I didn’t want to do anymore,” he said.

“I’ve worked for P&K for 20 years. They have been supportive for what I am doing. I would like to publically thank them,” Wiley said.

“I sat down with my boss and said, ‘This is what I want to do: Gradually leave your company, and not leave you in a lurch,’ ” he said.

he said.

“That is only tip of iceberg,” he said.

When Wiley set up his kitchen, he built in some redundancy. If a vital piece of equipment — like the fryer — fails, there is second one to fall back on.

“I started buying up equipment two years ago — a piece here and there. I bought stuff from E-bay and from Massachusetts. I even shipped one from Washington state. It was good piece of equipment from a school department.

So, the research did me justice,” he said.

From Skowhegan, he found a wood and glass display case that once housed sweet things from a candy store in Boston.

At first, all the equipment purchases were stored in his basement and in his garage.

However, as the number of pieces grew, he realized that he needed even more storage space. So, he built a

10’x20’ shed on his property.

“I set it up to see if everything would run. We made donuts at home. I took some to work; my fiancée took some to work,” he said.

“Everyone just loved them. That tipped the scale.

We knew we could do it,” he said.

For most people, a good donut has an appealing flavor and texture. For Wiley, the donut is about the whole concept.

“I want this business to be a place where people can come in, get donuts, a pastry, coffee, and keep going,” he said.

What is even better is that people on the go decide to stop in again.

The best-case scenario is that, similar to Wiley’s career choice, customers circle back around to the Village Donut Shop.

“People continue to come back and express that they are pleased with what we are

putting out,” he said.

“It means the whole world to me to hear that,” Wiley said.

ness, construction was a huge part of getting new business off the ground floor.

The Wiley family renovated the Raymond building.

“For eight months, we have been in the process of getting the building ready.

We stripped it out and re-did the whole thing. We even put TREATS ON THE WAY in a new concrete floor,” he — Larisa Larrabee bringsaid. ing a dozen fresh donuts to “The work was a tremenshare with her coworkers at dous job to go from what it Petlife in North Windham. was to what we have now,” he said.

Wiley had aimed for a Fourth of July opening. Then, he had wished that renovations were completed, and he could open in time for Labor Day weekend. But, as fate would have it, the grand opening coincided with the Fryeburg Fair.

The store was slammed with business on its second weekend of opening.

In December, the shop donated donuts to Windham High School, and to the town of Sebago for its annual Christmas tree lighting event.

“Yes, it is a little bit about getting your name out, but it is more about being community-based,” Wiley said.

“I have made contacts with summer camps in the area. I have set up some accounts with kids’ summer camps that we are looking to do businesses with over the summer. Those accounts SELECTION OF THE DAY baked goods. This day’s will need very large quantiofferings were baked by Bruce’s mother, Carolyn, using MONDAY, 11:26 A.M. Bruce’s mother, Carolyn Wiley, and Emily Allen put the frosting ties of donuts all week long,” old family recipes. on the last of the day’s baking.

Page B, The Bridgton News, December 26, 2013

Area Events Veterans Service Officer in Fryeburg

FRYEBURG — As a public service to area veterans, there will be a Veterans Service Officer from the Maine Bureau of Veterans Services available on Friday, Jan. 3, from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Fryeburg American Legion on Bradley Street. For more information, call 324-1839.

Rabies Clinic offered in Brownfield

BROWNFIELD — The town of Brownfield is holding a Rabies Clinic on Saturday, Jan. 4, from 8 to 11 a.m. at the Brownfield Town Office. The cost per shot is $10. For more information, call 935-2007.

Country living available to eat in or to take home, along with several per- Harrison VFW, Auxiliary meetings ishable, nonperishable and frozen items. The food ministry HARRISON — The Harrison VFW and VFW Auxiliary is open to anyone who wishes to be blessed with good will hold their monthly meeting on Wednesday, Jan. 8, at 7 quality food. For more information, call Dana Masters at p.m. at the Ronald St. John Post on the Waterford Road.

831-0737.

Socrates Café debates information gathering

WATERFORD — The next Socrates Café will be held on Monday, Jan. 6, at the Waterford Library from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. The topic is, “Is Information Gathering Good For Society?” The moderator will be Joanne Morse. Coffee and light refreshments will be available. Join them as they begin their sixth year. For more information, call 5836957.

Cancer Support Group for Women

NORWAY — Any woman who has experienced a cancer diagnosis, past or present, is invited to a Cancer Support for Women sponsored by Stephens Memorial Food Ministry Distribution Jan. 5 in Bridgton Group Hospital on the first Monday of each month from noon The Lake Region Vineyard Church will hold a Food to 1:30 p.m. The next group will be held on Jan. 6. Bring Ministry Distribution on Sunday, Jan. 5, from 1 to 3 p.m. a brown bag lunch or a snack if you like. Call Patti-Ann at 402 Main Street in Bridgton, near the ballfield. The date Douglas, RN, Patient Navigator, at 744-6173. in last week’s paper was incorrect. Prepared food will be

Beekeeping course offered

PORTLAND — An intermediate level Beekeeping Course is offered by University of Maine Cooperative Extension from Wednesday, Jan. 8 to Wednesday, Feb. 12 at USM in Portland. Master Beekeepers Jack Hildreth and Erin MacGregor-Forbes will teach Apiary Management on consecutive Wednesdays from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. The $130 per-person fee includes a textbook; a $180 fee covers two family members and a textbook to share.

Come join the Adult Play Group

BROWNFIELD — Come join others starting Tuesday, Jan. 14, for a new Adult Play Group at the Brownfield Community Center, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Come swap some coupons, share recipes, trade books, play a game of cards or just visit and make new friends. There is no cost for this program, but please bring a bag lunch.

Naples Library Living wills

NAPLES — Winter has settled in Naples. Time to curl up with a good book.

Stop in at the Naples Public Library and choose from the wide selection of current hard copy books, download a free book to your e-reader from the Overdrive system or browse the shelves of the Book Barn.

Children’s Library • Preschool Storytime at 10:30 a.m. every Tuesday.

• Musical Storytime at 10:30 a.m. every Thursday.

• Pajama Storytime at 6 p.m. every Thursday • Lego Clubs from 4 to 5 p.m. on the second and fourth Thursdays; two age groups, K-3 and fourth grade and up.

• Pokemon Club from 4 to 5 p.m. on the first and third Thursdays.

Adult Library • Tuesday, Jan. 14 at 7 p.m., Scrabble.

• Wednesday, Jan. 15, at 1:30 p.m., Book Group, Vanessa Diffenbaugh’s The Language of Flowers.

• Tuesday, Jan. 28 at 7 p.m., Scrabble.

The Naples Public Library is open Tuesday and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Wednesday from 2 to 7 p.m.; Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. For further details, call 693-6841, check the bulletin boards and the website at www.naples.lib.me.us or sign up for the monthly email newsletter.

Area birth

Every morning before starting his day job at P&K Sand and Gravel, Bruce Wiley checks in with the crew at the Village Donut Shop and Bakery in Raymond. Todd knows to have the chocolate cake donuts still warm when his brother arrives. In the background is the mixer Bruce bought and rebuilt by hand.

Kelsey Sullivan and Darren Eastman of Ossippee, N.H. have a girl, Lucille Olivia Vera Eastman, born Dec. 13, 2013 at Memorial Hospital in North Conway, N.H. Lucille weighed eight pounds, four ounces, and joins her brothers Spencer, 10, Leeland, 3, and Nathan, 2. Maternal grandparents are Kenneth and Susan Sullivan of Albany, N.H. Paternal grandparents are Mildred and David Eastman of Brownfield.

NEW YEAR’S at

at Memorial Hospital

NORTH CONWAY, N.H. — With the season of giving upon us, why not offer your family peace of mind by preparing for your health care needs.

It is never too early to plan ahead. It is a process to think about, talk about and plan for life-threatening illness or end-of-life care. Why not have that conversation with your family now?

Advance Directives are legal documents that allow you to convey your decisions about end-of-life care ahead of time — how much and what kind of care you would want to receive if you are too ill or injured to express your wishes for yourself. They provide a way for you to communicate your wishes to family, friends and health care professionals, and to avoid confusion later on. The document contains two separate directives, a Living Will, and a Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care. The Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care allows you to name someone who serves as your agent and is empowered to speak on your behalf if you are unable to so do.

A Living Will is a legal document that instructs your health care provider to give no life-sustaining treatment if you are near death or are permanently unconscious, without hope of recovery. If you do not want medically administered feeding or hydration, New Hampshire law requires that you say so in your document. Memorial Hospital is pleased to offer this service free of charge. If you would like to complete this document, please call Memorial Hospital at 603-356-5461, ext. 2291.

A complete Guide to Advance Care Planning is available on line by going to www.memorialhospitalnh.org or www.healthynh.com

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New Year’s Eve 2013

Country living

December 26, 2013, The Bridgton News, Page B

Band’s music brought a tear to my eye The community of Lovell is grateful to the Delta #153 Masonic Lodge here in Lovell for the generous donation they made to the Friends Helping Friends program.

The lodge was looking for a program in town to support, and chose this program at the suggestion of members Robert Drew and Dave Mills.

The lodge started off with a donation of $500 by Ralph Tadesco at the breakfast held during Lovell Old Home Day. This check was also donated to the Friends. The brothers had a $200 gift certificate donated by Shaw’s, which was raffled off. The winners of the certificate and a $15 gift card from Green

Thumb were Dale and Jen McClure of Massachusetts and Stoneham. The winners graciously donated the winnings back to Lovell. The Grand Lodge in Portland, in return, matched the $500 raised by the Delta Lodge, bringing the total to $1,000.

A check for that total amount was presented to Selectman Bob Drew for the Friends Helping Friends program. This program helps people in need in the community with heating fuel during the winter. This is not a town-run program and relies on monies raise by community fundraisers like the chili cook-off and donations like the one made by the Delta

Lovell

by Ethel Gilmore-Hurst Lovell Correspondent 925-3226 ehurst3@yahoo.com Lodge. Local residents also contribute, and donations are welcome. The community thanks the Lodge, and those that the fund serves appreciated the donation.

Friday the 13 was really cold, but those attending the Fan Fare concert at the VFW came away with a smile and a warm heart. This free concert

is given by men and women who live all over Maine and give their time because they love to play music, especially Christmas music. This concert came to Lovell by way of former resident Don Dutil, who was their fearless leader until health issues forced him to reluctantly retire. Seeing Don there that night, and see-

ing him direct for two tunes, was wonderful. The music brought back many memories of Christmases through the years. All favorite carols were played and sung by the audience with vigor. Many of the old World War II songs written about being away from home at Christmas brought a tear to the eye.

It was a great performance, and thanks to the VFW Post #6783 for bringing them to Lovell. We hope to see and hear them next year.

Coming events for 2014 (Yes, I know, you can’t believe it either): • The Senior Exercise Group will restart after the holidays, on Tuesday, Jan. 7,

at 8:30 a.m.

• Cribbage starts on Wednesday, Jan. 8, at 9 a.m. at the Charlotte Hobbs Memorial Library.

• Lovell Recreation has a Walking Program starting at the New Suncook School on Monday, Jan. 6, from 4 to 5:30 p.m. The program runs on Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, from 4 to 5:30 p.m. You can contact Rec Director Meg Dyer at 925-1441 or lovellrecdirector@gmail.com to register.

Happy 18th birthday to my adopted grandson, PJ Drew. Thanks for the many loads of wood you bring in, and making me laugh.

Love you.

Indigo Lotus Yoga blossoming Suzanne Silvermoon, LPN, therapeutic yoga practitioner and founder of Indigo Lotus Yoga, has been teaching community yoga classes, as well as seeing clients privately for therapeutic yoga, in Lovell and Fryeburg for the last five years.

Now as 2014 dawns, Indigo Lotus Yoga classes will be offered in Bridgton, as well as Windham.

After being an adjunct faculty member of Birthwise Midwifery School on South High Street in Bridgton for the last several years, offering a yearly elective of Prenatal Yoga, Suzanne was approached by the school’s director, Heidi Fillmore, to offer weekly yoga classes in the brand new classroom above the Carriage House of the Birthwise campus.

Beginning Jan. 7 at Birthwise, Tuesdays and Fridays from 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. will be a “Good Morning Yoga” Vinyasa-style class designed to stretch, strengthen and energize. Along with Good Morning Yoga, there will be classes dedicated to mothers-to-be and new mothers and their babies.

Beginning Friday, Jan. 10 from 9 to 10 a.m., “Mama/ Baby Yoga” offers a playful and easygoing yoga practice

designed for a treasured time of life as women embrace new motherhood, and heal their postpartum body.

Mama/Baby Yoga fosters community with other moms who are experiencing the joys and challenges of new motherhood while having fun with their babies. The yoga postures are designed to regain core strength, maintain flexibility, nurture stamina while nurturing balance in the body, mind and spirit. Most women can begin Mama/Baby Yoga at around four to eight weeks postpartum, but if uncertain about readiness, check with a care provider. Classes are most beneficial to mom and baby from the newborn to very early toddling.

Also beginning Jan. 10 from 10:15 to 11:30 a.m., “Mama Yoga” offers pregnant women a safe and gentle prenatal yoga practice to nurture their body, mind, and spirit through the childbearing year. Yoga meets the unique journey of pregnancy with mindfulness and fosters strength, flexibility, and balance, along with peace of mind. Mama Yoga also cultivates the steady endurance needed for the journey of the pregnant woman’s changing body, labor, birth, and

motherhood. Yoga postures are modified as each woman moves through the trimesters of her childbearing year and her changing body. During each Mama Yoga class, there is quiet reflective time to encourage women in their emotional and spiritual connection with the developing baby and their unique journey toward motherhood.

Indigo Lotus Yoga has also sprung up in Windham.

Suzanne has begun offering several weekly yoga classes in the beautiful and serene Raindrop Yoga Studio on White’s Bridge Road in Windham. The classes offered at Raindrop are designed for students of all levels from the basic beginner to more seasoned practitioners who are looking for a practice with an emphasis on proper alignment that will maintain safety while cultivating optimal wellness.

Suzanne was originally drawn to the Windham area by her colleague Echo Lowell, LCPCC whose vision was to offer therapeutic yoga in conjunction with mental health therapy she and others provide for individuals suffering from trauma. There have been great strides in the treatment of symptoms such as PTSD as a result

of trauma by adding adjunct therapies such as yoga with its emphasis of mindful presence, body awareness, and breathing.

In a small controlled study cited on the website for The Trauma Center At Justice Resource Institute they report (52%) of participants in the TraumaInformed Yoga Group no longer met criteria for PTSD compared to (21%) in the Women’s Health Education Control Group. At the posttreatment assessment, the Yoga Group exhibited statistically significant decreases in PTSD symptoms. If you are a person suffering from symptoms of trauma and PTSD, or know some- Todd Wiley hand-making the bear claws at the new donut one who is, ask your men- shop, Village Donut Shop and Bakery in Raymond. tal health practitioner for a referral to Indigo Lotus Yoga to begin this transformational therapeutic trauma-sensitive yoga work.

If interested in participatDaily Specials 647-2137 ing in any of the many yoga Open at 7 AM 144 Main St., Bridgton classes offered by Indigo You could become a millionaire Lotus Yoga or scheduling By eating Main Street Variety Pizza! a therapeutic yoga consult with Suzanne, you can obtain more information as with every large pizza purchased well as contact information YOU MUST MENTION THIS AD! OFFER ENDS TUES., DEC. 31, 2013 4T49 at the website: www.indigo-

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Maine Clam Chowder Baked French Onion Soup Lobster Stew All entrees are served with a basket of fresh rolls, gourmet greens salad with your choice of dressing, vegetables and your choice of potato, rice or french fries.

Twin sliced prime rib rolled with fresh brandied lobster meat and served with béarnaise sauce Chicken breast lightly breaded and sautéed, topped with prosciutto ham and provolone. Served with a dry vermouth and fresh sage demi-glaze

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NEW YEAR!

Celebrate the with your friends at Punkin Valley!

Join us December 31 for either…

First Seating 5:00 p.m. ~ Dinner Buffet until 7 p.m. $18.95 / person ($8.95 age 12 & under) ~ Second Seating 8:00 p.m. ~

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All-you-can-eat Sample Buffet Menu ~ rotating throughout the night* Entrées: Prime Rib • Roast Turkey • Stuffed Pork Loin • Italian Meatballs Don’ t wait and m Seafood Newburgh • Baked Haddock • Shrimp Scampi • Swedish Meatballs out on the fun…iss Lasagna • Sweet-n-Sour Wings • Chicken Gardenia • Baked Pit Ham Chicken Parmesan • Beef ~ Chicken ~ Pork Stir Fry Make your reservations Chicken & Broccoli Casserole • Scallops wrapped in Bacon to Cajun Pork Medallions • Tri-colored Pasta Alfredo • Pasta Primavera Seatings fill qu day! ickly Sides: Mashed Potatoes, Red Bliss Potatoes, Au Gratin Potatoes, Rice Pilaf, Vegetable Medley, Butternut Squash, Honey-Glazed Carrots, Salad, Rolls *Not all menu items will be Desserts: Assorted Cookies, Cake served at both seatings.

Obituaries

Country living

Page B, The Bridgton News, December 26, 2013

Deborah A. Palmer

Phyllis M. Libby

SCARBOROUGH — Deborah A. Palmer, 65, of Scarborough died Tuesday, Dec. 17, 2013 at her home following a long illness.

She was born in Portland, the daughter of Charles and Esther Westerberg Hamilton. She attended local schools and graduated from Scarborough High School.

On Nov. 19, 1966, she married Ronald W. Palmer and together they made their home and raised their family in Scarborough.

Deborah was an angel as she lived and she is an angel as she has passed on. She will always be with us. We will never forget the compassionate mother she was.

Deborah is survived by her husband, Ronald Palmer of Scarborough; a son, Adam C. Palmer of Scarborough; a daughter, Terri Palmer of Naples; a grandson; and a sister, Linda Libby of Scarborough.

At the family’s request, all services will be private.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Conroy-Tully Crawford Funeral Home, 172 State Street, Portland. Online condolences may be expressed at www.ctcrawford.com

DUNEDIN, FLA. — Phyllis M. Libby, 94, formerly of North Sebago, died on Friday, Dec. 13, 2013, in Dunedin, Fla. after a lengthy illness.

She was the widow of Lt. Col. Kenneth N. Libby, USAF Retired, who died on Dec. 23, 1988.

She was born Sept. 23, 1919 in Effingham, N.H., the daughter of Ernest S. and Helen Louise (Cutting) Meloon.

She was predeceased by two sons, Kenneth N. Libby and Allen E. Libby.

A graveside service will be held in Freedom Cemetery in Freedom, N.H., in 2014. Arrangements are in care of Bibber Memorial Chapel, Kennebunk. www.bibberfuneral.com Should friends desire, memorials may be made to: The Shriners Hospitals for Children, 516 Carew Street, Springfield, MA 01104.

Jeannie E. Walker LEBANON, N.H. — Jeannie Ellen (Taylor) Walker, 65 of Lebanon, N.H., passed away unexpectedly at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center on Dec. 17, 2013, with her family by her side.

Jeannie was born on Jan. 5, 1948 in Portland, the daughter of Albert C. and Marion (Bagster) Taylor. She grew up in Portland as a child and moved to New Hampshire in 1961 when her father was transferred to Hanover.

She graduated from Lebanon High School where she met the love of her life, David F. Walker and they were married 45 years this past October. She was a wonderful wife and mother.

Jeannie had a wide circle of friends, loved to cook, and enjoyed her home and yard, and adventures to the family camp on Clark Pond in Canaan, N.H. Jeannie also loved the ocean and beach at Pine Point in Scarborough, and visited her family in Gorham often, where lobster feeds were held with all the relatives.

Jeannie was employed by HyperTherm as a purchasing agent and purchased inventory all over the world. She was a dedicated employee and always gave 110% to her job and fellow associates.

Jeannie is predeceased by her father, Albert C. Taylor in 2002, and a younger sister, Janet, in 1962.

She is survived by her loving husband, David; a daughter, Heather Rowe; and a grandson of Lebanon, N.H.; her loving mother, Marion Taylor of Gorham; a sister, Julie Dunham Williams of Gorham; a brother, James S. Taylor of Gorham; a sister, Jayne (Taylor) Stenger of Sebago; an aunt and an uncle of Gorham; as well as many nieces and nephews.

A celebration of her life will be held at a later date in Lebanon, N.H.

The Bridgton News

IN LOVING MEMORY OF

Tamra R. Benoit

OBITUARY POLICY The News will run, at no charge, obituaries that have local connections. Photographs may be submitted at no additional charge, and whenever possible, they should be emailed as a jpg file.

The News will include: Individuals – predeceased by parents, siblings, spouse, children; survived by spouse, significant other, children, parents. Names of spouses of surviving relatives will not be included. In most cases names of the grandchildren, nephews and nieces will not be listed, just the number of each.

However, if the deceased individual’s only connection to the area is a nephew, niece or grandchild, that person will be identified. The News reserves the right to edit all free obituaries.

Requests for more complete obituaries will be accepted as paid advertisements.

Contact: The Bridgton News, P.O. Box 244, 118 Main Street, Bridgton, ME 04009. Tel. 207-647-2851, Fax 207-6475001, E-mail: bnews@roadrunner.com

TF19

6T48EOWE

647-2149

(207) 627-7561

i.holly@hotmail.com

Merry Christmas and a Joyful New Year!

www.warrensfloristmaine.com

Your one-stop flower shop Floral Arrangements • Greeting Cards Garden Decor • Gift Baskets …from a single stem to a whole bouquet, flowers say it best!

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CLOSED FOR VACATION DEC. 25TH – JAN. 1ST

HAVE A SAFE & HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Parsonsfield died peacefully at his home on Friday, Dec. 20, 2013.

He was born in Skowhegan, on Sept. 17, 1940, the son of Albert and Lillian (Richardson) Ferland. He was a graduate of Gorham High School in 1959 and proudly served in the United States Army.

He married June Dunnells on April 11, 1964 and together they raised four children.

He worked at a Gorham Bowling Alley as well as for Strike and Spare Lanes in Kezar Falls for many years. He later worked for over 20 years at Weyerhauser, which later became Southern Container, in Westbrook until his retirement. He then worked for both Robert Libby and Gary Taylor sharpening tools for the timber industry for several more years. He recently became a member of the American Legion in Kezar Falls.

Lefty enjoyed hunting, fishing and Harley Davidson motorcycles. He also enjoyed bird and squirrel watching as well as berry picking. He especially enjoyed eating those berries after they had been made into a delicious pie. Above all he enjoyed spending time with his family. He always loved going to his children’s, and later his grandchildren’s sporting events. Lefty will be sadly missed by his loving family and all who knew him.

Surviving are his beloved wife, June Ferland of Parsonsfield; three daughters, Julie Locke, Angela Taylor and Andrea Webster, all of Porter; his son, Andrew Ferland of Melvin Village, N.H.; two sisters, Mary Ellen Jondahl of Acton and Joyce Towns of Waterboro; a brother, Kennedy “Bill” Ferland of Naples; 10 grandchildren; a great-granddaughter; as well as several nieces and nephews.

A memorial celebration of his life will be on Sunday, Dec. 29, from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Watson, Neal & York Funeral Home, 71 Maple Street, Cornish. Burial will be in the spring. Online condolences may be expressed at: www.wnyfuneralhome.com In lieu of flowers donations may be made to: Friends of ParSem, P.O. Box 163, Parsonsfield, ME 04047 or to a charity of your choice.

Casco zumba CASCO — Casco Rec has announced that Zumba Gold will be offered starting Thursday, Jan. 9 from 9 to 9:45 a.m. at the Casco Community Center. The instructor will be Vicki Toole. Cost is $30 for six weeks or $7 for drop-ins.

This program is perfect for you if you are: no longer a spring chicken; deconditioned or a previous injury prevents certain movements (no jumping, or person with decreased stamina — 45-minute classes!). Anyone who wants to have fun and do something tremendous for the body and mind, Zumba Gold is for you!

Adult Zumba will be offered starting Saturday, Jan. 11 from 10 to 11 a.m. Cost is $30 for six weeks or $7 for drop-ins.

Zumba dance is exercise in disguise. Dance/fitness classes are here to help you “ditch the workout and join the party!” This easy-to-follow but cardio-blasting “exercise in disguise” will have you enjoying your workout to the max! Learn the salsa, merengue, reggae and a host of other fun rhythms all set to a pulsating Latin beat that will have you moving like never before. All that’s needed is comfortable clothing, sneakers and a desire to have a great time!

For more information, contact Casco Parks and Recreation Department at 627-4187 or e-mail recreation@cascomaine.org

New programs available at the North Bridgton Library

Hospital ready to assist public with access to healthcare marketplace

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www.connectingcompanions.com

Albert A. Ferland Jr.

groups.

On Saturday, Feb. 22 , LEA will hold the World Four Square Championships.

This is also the 9th year for this event, and it offers highenergy competition and great spectator action.

Competitors come from many states (and sometimes Canada) to play this traditional playground game for “all the marbles.” LEA welcome new players; the competition starts with a rules review and practice session.

The Mystery Book Club will meet the first Saturday of every month at 2 p.m. For January, read any book by Louise Penny. The February author will be Colin Cotterill.

Join fellow mystery lovers to discuss your favorite authors and books.

The North Bridgton Library

welcomes all Lake Region residents as well as seasonal residents. NBPL offers free membership, free laptop use, free Wi-Fi as well as free InterLibrary Loan services. For more information please visit their new website at northbridgtonlibrary.org or “Like” their page on Facebook. Patrons can

also receive newsletter e-mails by joining The Friends of the Library. Call your librarian, Heather Silvia, at 647-8563, for more information. The library is located at 113 North Bridgton Road, with hours of 9 a.m. to noon Mondays, 1 to 5 p.m. Thursdays and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays.

Help with insurance enrollment

You meant so much to all of us.

You were special and that’s no lie.

You brightened up the darkest day and the cloudiest sky.

Your smile alone warmed hearts.

Your laugh was like music to hear.

We would give absolutely anything to have you well and near.

Love, MOM, PAUL, GIOVANNI

Providing companionship, respite care, home care and transportation.

This winter, Lakes Environmental Association is hosting two events aimed at combating cabin fever.

The 9th Annual Deep Freeze Bluegrass Festival will be held at Town Hall on North High Street, Bridgton, on Saturday, Jan. 25.

This event will feature old favorites and a brand new band as well. This is a great event for the entire family, and showcases some excellent live music from some PARSONSFIELD — Albert Andrew “Lefty” Ferland Jr., 73, of of Maine’s best bluegrass

The North Bridgton Library will host Knittervention, a knitting group that meets every Monday at 10 a.m. beginning in January. All skill levels are welcome. They also welcome those who crochet, needlepoint, hook rugs or embroider.

All crafters and artisans are welcome.

8/13/1987 – 12/29/2012

LEA plans two winter events

for the person or recommend plans, the counselors are able to support individuals as they go through the process. A person

does not have to be a patient Cullen also pointed out that of Memorial or its providers the financial counselors offer to ask for assistance with the additional services to those insurance marketplace.

ENROLL, Page B

CONWAY, N.H. — As if people didn’t already know it, the recent launch of the Healthcare.gov website demonstrates the incredibly complex world of health insurance.

Even for those who are covered through Medicare or their employers, the task of understanding co-pays, networks and plan options are extremely challenging — and often ignored until a service is needed or a crisis occurs.

Recognizing these challenges, Memorial Hospital has cross-trained three of its financial staff to assist patients and their families with identifying resources for their medical needs. Monika Cullen, Melissa Bartlett and Deb Drouin recently completed extensive training to become “Certified Application Counselors” under the new health insurance marketplace exchange. In this role, they are able to help individuals determine their eligibility and facilitate online enrollment.

“We had two weeks of training and had to pass two exams,” Cullen said about the certification process, which included a separate module on privacy and security standards. “Our role is to act in the best interest of the consumer, not the hospital,” she said.

Working with the Certified Application Counselors, the public can get one-on-one help with understanding how the online process works for the health insurance exchange.

Although they cannot actually complete the application Teresa, from Village Donut Shop and Bakery in Raymond, arrives at 4 a.m. to begin the day’s baking. Blueberry muffins fresh out of the oven.

Country living

December 26, 2013, The Bridgton News, Page B

Back in the Day 1928 — 85 Years Ago

Editorial: Miss Emily Welch, proprietress of Camp Wabunaki, the summer camp for girls located at Hillside has opened her camp for the Christmas holidays and it has been occupied for a few days by a jolly crowd of city girls, who are enraptured with the beauties of this section in the winter. Unfortunately these girls came just when Maine’s January thaw was at his height and did not have the opportunity of enjoying the winter sports which would have been possible during late January and February when the countryside is blanketed with three to four feet of snow. They saw enough of Maine in the winter, however, to make them want to come again, and they will return to their city homes full of enthusiasm, which will serve to elicit the interest of those who were not so fortunate as to be among the number this year. Miss Welch is inaugurating a plan for a winter camp in order to utilize the

valuable property which she has at Hillside during a longer period of the year.

News item excerpt: Richmond, VA. — The Virginia Electric and Power Company is having its machine shop here painted in all colors of the rainbow. The theory is that persons are more contented and do better work in pleasant surroundings, therefore the grim machinery and tools will be coated with those colors believed to make one happy.

Pinky monkey wrenches, scarlet hammers — with purple handles, orange screwdrivers, canary planes will be used by the workmen, henceforth.

News item excerpt: The interior of the Casco Mercantile Bank Building, formerly the Bridgton Savings Bank building, is to be remodeled in order to meet the changed conditions, incident upon the transfer of the Bridgton Savings Bank and the Bridgton National Bank to the Casco Mercantile Trust Company, which transfer

Earth Notes “Earth Notes” is an outgrowth of a deep ecology discussion group.

Writers reflect a delight in and concern for the earth and are individually responsible for opinions and information. Community members are invited to submit articles. E-mail jschap@ localnet.com for details.

Tacking across the winter

By Alice Rose Guest Writer When I was very much younger, winter meant sledding and skating and trips into the woods to search for the perfect Christmas tree or to look for animal tracks as part of a homework assignment.

Across from our house was a large open field back of which and down a deep slope was yet another large open field. These fields were part of a commercial farming operation. During summers, my sisters and I picked green beans there, earning 50 cents a bushel, and picked summer squash and corn. In the winter, we were free to sled down the slope from one field to the other or, when conditions were right, to ice skate down the slope from one field to the other. Helmets were unheard of in those days, although my father insisted we wear long underwear.

Long wool underwear chafed literally and figuratively (we were the only girls in our school who wore them) and we complained often, loudly and to no avail. Otherwise, winter was a joy. We went out after breakfast in our wool snowsuits over the long underwear and, except for coming in for lunch, we stayed out all day sledding or skating and foraging in the woods. I don’t remember ever complaining about the cold…then.

Now, the phrase “snow days” has a whole new meaning and nowhere in that meaning is the word, “fun.” I can’t WINTER, Page B

Calendar BRIDGTON Fri., Dec. 27 — Couponing Class, 6 p.m., Community Center. FMI: 256-4274.

Fri., Jan. 3 — Joy of Singing Group, 3 to 5 p.m., 1st Congregational Church, 33 So. High St. FMI: 583-6304.

Sun., Jan. 5 — Food Ministry Distribution by Vineyard Church, 1-3 p.m., 402 Main St. FMI: 831-0737.

BROWNFIELD Tue., Dec. 24 — Christmas Eve Service, 4 p.m., Brownfield Community Church.

Fri., Dec. 27 — Jammiepalooza, fun for kids, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Community Center.

Sat., Dec. 28 — Hike

by Loon Echo Land Trust up Pleasant Mountain, meet 8:45 at Bald Peak trailhead, Mountain Rd. FMI: jon@lelt. org Sat., Jan. 4 — Rabies Clinic, 8 to 11 a.m., Brownfield Town Office, 82 Main St. FMI: 935-2007.

Sun., Jan. 5 — Brownfield Rec meeting, 4 p.m., Community Center.

CASCO Sat., Jan. 4 — Sunshine Club supper, 5 to 6 p.m., Webbs Mills Community Hall, Webbs Mills.

DENMARK Fri., Dec. 27 — Difficult hike to North Baldface, Evans Notch, N.H., meet 8 a.m. at Denmark Congregational Church. FMI: 756-2247.

FRYEBURG Mon., Dec. 30 — Affordable Care Act forum, 6pm, Fryeburg Legion Hall on Bradley Street. Jake Grindle, healthcare navigator. FMI: Helen Rankin 207-625-4620.

Fri., Jan. 3 — Veterans Service Officer, 9 to 11 a.m., Fryeburg American Legion, Bradley Street. FMI: 3241839.

HARRISON Sun., Jan. 5 — Rec-sponsored trip to see Maine Red Claws play Tulsa 66ers, bus leaves town office 2:30 p.m., returns 8:30 p.m. FMI: 583-2241.

NAPLES Thur., Dec. 26 — Lego Club, 4 to 5 p.m., library.

Thur., Jan. 2 — Pokeman Club, 4 to 5 p.m., library.

RAYMOND Wed., Dec. 25 — Free Christmas Dinner, roast turkey & all the trimmings, 2 p.m., Christ Chapel, 37 Northern Pines Rd. AREA EVENTS Tue., Dec. 24 — Christmas Eve Morning Snowshoe Walk, 10:30 a.m. to noon, Shepard’s Farm Family Preserve, 121 Crockett Ridge Rd., Norway.

FMI: 739-2124.

Thurs. & Fri., Dec. 24 & 25 — North Conway Public Library closed for Christmas.

Library also closed Tues., Dec. 31 & Wed., Jan. 1 for New Years. Regular hours: Mon. & Tues., noon to 5 p.m., Wed. & Thurs., noon to 6 p.m., Fri. noon to 5 p.m. FMI 603-3562961.

Fri., Dec. 27 — Deadline for Master Gardener Training Course, begins Jan. 31 in Falmouth. FMI: 781-6099, 1800-287-1471.

Tue., Dec. 31 — New Year’s Planetarium Show, 6 p.m. to midnight, Southworth Planetarium, Falmouth St., Portland. FMI: 780-4249.

Thur., Jan. 2 — No. Conway Library Book Group discuss Cutting for Stone by Abraham Verghese, 10:30 a.m., library. FMI: 603-3562961.

Back in the Day

by Janine Francisco Bridgton Historical Society

took place about a year and a half ago. The banking rooms, now in two sections, with the checking department and the savings department on opposite sides of the main corridor, will be thrown into one large room. The public will enter the building through the same entrance as at present through a vestibule, which will open into the main room reserved for the public.

Local note: Perhaps the most important organization in South Bridgton with the exception of the Church of which it is a branch, is known as “The Circle.” For more than half a century it has been functioning steadily furnishing a good social time for old

and young, for who does not enjoy “a good Circle.”

There is a long list of names of those who are closely identified with it. We might mention a few Mrs. Col Perley; Miss Esq Perley, Mrs. Helen Knapp; Miss Mary Fessenden, Mrs. S.C. Knights, Mrs. Mary Choate, Mrs. Mary K. Ingalls, Mrs. Martha J. Ingalls, Mrs. Cora Fessenden, Mrs. Fannie Ingalls, Mrs. Eliza Ingalls and many others whose work in the kitchen, though unhonored and unsung, has made this society a success. The hand that plays the piano wins the most plaudits but the hand that wields the mixing spoon is the one after all that counts.

News item excerpt: A law, which may have a far reaching effect was enacted by the last legislature to go into effect on Jan. 1 of this year, relative to the operation of motor vehicles by persons convicted of reckless driving while under the influence of intoxicating liquor. This law provides that the secretary of state shall require of any such person proof of financial responsibility to satisfy any claim for personal injuries up to the amount of $5000 and or property damage to the extent of $1000 and if no such proof is furnished the secretary of state may suspend or revoke a license until such proof has been furnished.

News item excerpt: New road projects to the extent of over two and a half million dollars have just been approved by the Governor and Council in spite of the fact that we are now working under a “pay as you go” plan in the matter of road building. Out of this two million and a half,

Cumberland Country gets something over $350,000, of which about sixty thousand is federal aid money. This $350,000 will build approximately six miles of road. The Naples-Poland Corner road gets two miles of macadam, the construction having been started last Fall. This road will commence at the Crooked River Bridge, just this side of Cook’s Mills Corner, and will extend about two miles toward Poland Springs which will be the first link of macadam connecting the PortlandPortsmouth Road, which is to receive two miles of concrete at Dunstan and about four miles and a half at Ogunquit.

The Bridgton Historical Society is seeking an Intern/ Caretaker at Narramissic for the upcoming summer of 2014, (mid June through August, 25 hours per week). The stipend is $1,500 and includes living quarters at this historic farm in South Bridgton. Contact info@bridgtonhistory.org or call 647-3699 for details.

Violence and substance abuse

It is also important to Does substance abuse note that there are increased cause violence to happen barriers for women who or does substance abuse suffer from substance simply perpetuate the probabuse in regards to domeslem?

by Lake Region Coalition tic violence. Some of these This is a very loaded Against Domestic and increased barriers include question and generally Sexual Violence the inability for a victim to speaking, we believe that leave her batterer or protect although substance abuse herself and/or her children does not cause domestic while she is impaired, if the victim is abusing illegal drugs violence to take place, it does add fuel to the fire.

Statistically speaking, we know that abusers abuse she could be putting herself in harm’s way physically, and for a number of different reasons; most importantly we the effects of substance abuse could prevent her from accuknow that abusers use different forms of domestic abuse rately assessing the level of danger posed by her abuser. as a means of gaining power and control over an intimate Moreover, a victim’s substance use or addiction could partner. When working with victims of domestic violence potentially be used against her by the abuser in an attempt whose partners are addicted to or using drugs and alcohol, to gain even more control over her (Niess & Garvin).

Niess and Garvin also encountered many issues while the abusive situation can become much more chaotic and this can make it a lot more difficult for the victim to create working with batterers affected by substance abuse. They a solid safety plan and protect themselves. In addition, we found that batterers as well as their victims tended to blame know that victims of domestic violence can often times turn the drugs and/or alcohol for all the battering and they also to drugs and/or alcohol use as a way to cope with the chaos found that their overall level of denial was much higher.

Historically, we have seen abusers use substance abuse and ongoing abuse they have endured.

Barbara Niess, MPA, MSW, executive director of as a way to explain away their abusive behavior; meaning SAFEHouse Center in Michigan, and David Garvin, that the abuser utilizes violence to gain control because LMSW, chief operating officer of Catholic Social Services they are drunk or high. If this were the case, we would see of Washtenaw County in Michigan, have found significant the abuse cease once the abuser sobered up…unfortunately, links between substance abuse and domestic violence, both this is never the case.

If anything can be learned from these facts and stain regards to victims and batters. For instance, studies have shown that 25 to 50% of women receiving services for tistics it should be that drugs and alcohol do not cause domestic violence are also experiencing problems with sub- domestic violence just like domestic violence does not stance abuse. Even more astounding is the fact that between cause addiction.

For more information regarding substance abuse and 55% and 99% of women who have substance abuse issues have been victimized at some point in their lives (Niess domestic violence please visit www.nationalcenterdvtrau& Garvin). Conversely, over 50% of men in Batterers mamh.org/, www.safehousecenter.org/, or ncadv.org/ If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic Intervention Programs have substance abuse issues and are eight times as likely to batter on a day in which they have violence please contact the free and confidential, 24 hour been drinking. Furthermore, half of partnered men entering domestic violence hotline for Family Crisis Services and substance abuse treatment programs have battered in the the Maine Coalition to End Domestic Violence at 1-866past year and are 11 times as likely to batter on a day in 834-4357 or the National Coalition to End Domestic Violence at 1-800-799-7233. which they have been drinking (Niess & Garvin).

Stopping the Abuse

ONGOING WEEKLY DAILY Alcoholics Anonymous, 9 a.m., Clyde Bailey Drop In Center, 224 Roosevelt Trail (Rte. 302), Casco.

Alcoholics Anonymous, noon to 1 p.m., St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, Sweden Rd., Bridgton. O/D MONDAYS Jumpin’ Janes Senior Fitness, 9 a.m., Town Hall, No. High St., Bridgton.

Storytime for Preschoolers with Miss Liz, ages under five, 10-11 a.m., Lovell Library.

Baby/Toddler Playtime, 10:30 a.m., Raymond Library.

Storytime, 10:30 a.m., North Bridgton Library.

The Food Basket and Kyrie’s Kitchen, every other Monday, 1 to 3 p.m., Naples Town Hall gym. FMI: 6153226.

Knotty Knitters, noon to 2 p.m., Soldiers Library, Hiram.

Drop-ins welcome. FMI: 6254650.

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

Mousepaint Storytime, 2:30 to 4 p.m., Lovell Library.

Coed Adult Basketball, 6 to 7:45 p.m., Harrison Elementary School gym, Rte. 35, Harrison. FMI: 583-2241.

Waterford Bridge Group, every 4th Monday except Dec. 23, 6:30 p.m., library.

Casco Food Pantry, 6 to 7 p.m. third Monday of month, Casco Alliance Church. FMI: 344-5370.

Narcotics Anonymous, 7 p.m. Bridgton Community Center, 15 Depot St. ODLH Narcotics Anonymous, 7 p.m., Clyde Bailey Drop In Center, 224 Roosevelt Trail (Rte. 302), Casco.

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

Congregational Church, Bridgton.

Sebago Food Pantry and Clothes Closet, Nazarene Church, Rte. 114, 4th Tuesdays 9-11 a.m. & 5-7 p.m.; clothes closet Saturdays, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. FMI: 274-1569.

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

Tai Chi Maine New Beginners’ Classes, 9:30 to 11 a.m., Town Hall, No. High St., Bridgton.

Naples Food Pantry, 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., United Methodist Church, Village Green. FMI: 595-2754.

Preschool Storytime, 10:30 a.m., Naples Library.

Mother Goose Time, 10:30 a.m., Bridgton Library.

Bridgton Food Pantry, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Methodist Church, 98 Main St. FMI: 647-4476.

Sebago Senior Luncheon, noon, Sebago Church of the Nazarene.

Prayer & Meditation Time, 12:15 to 12:45 p.m., First Congregational Church, Bridgton.

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

Womanspace, 3:45 to 5 p.m., group room, Tri-County Mental Health, 32 No. High St. FMI: 523-0700.

Teen Sports Night, 6-7:45 p.m., Harrison Elementary School gym, Rte. 35, Harrison.

FMI: 583-2241.

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

Wood Carving Group, 7 p.m., Ice Rink behind Town Hall, No. High St., Bridgton.

AA Step Mtgs., 7 p.m., Clyde Bailey Drop In Center, 224 Roosevelt Trail (Rte. 302), Casco.

Al-Anon, 7:30 p.m., St. Joseph Church, 225 High St.,

Bridgton.

WEDNESDAYS Most Ongoing Meetings Not Held on Christmas Day. Alcoholics Anonymous, 7 to 8 p.m., Clyde Bailey Drop In Center, 224 Roosevelt Trail (Rte. 302), Casco.

THURSDAYS Bridgton Rotary Club, 7:15 a.m., Bridgton Alliance Church, Rte. 117.

Adult Children of Alcoholics, 10 a.m., Waterford Library.

Storytime, 10 a.m., Harrison Library, Harrison Village.

Senior Wii Bowling, 10 to 11:30 a.m., Casco Community Center.

Storytime with Music, 10:30 a.m., Naples Library.

Gathering Place Support Group, noon, Bridgton Community Center.

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

Brownfield Food Pantry, 1 to 5 p.m. third Thursdays, 701 Pequawket Trl. FMI: 9352333.

Tai Chi Maine Set Practice, 2:30 to 4 p.m., Town Hall, No. High St., Bridgton.

Raymond Food Pantry, 46 p.m., 2nd & 4th Thursdays, Lake Region Baptist Church, 1273 Main St. FMI: 2325830.

No Community Kettle this week at Bridgton Community Center.

Pajama Storytime, 6 p.m., Naples Library.

Teen Sports Night, 6-7:45 p.m., Harrison Elementary School gym, Rte. 35, Harrison.

FMI: 583-2241.

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

Chickadee Quilters, 6:30

p.m., Bridgton Community Center.

Narcotics Anonymous Women’s Meeting, 7 to 8 p.m., St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, Sweden Rd. (Rte. 93) off Rte. 302, Bridgton.

AA Ladies Step-Meeting, 7 a.m. & 7 p.m., Clyde Bailey Center, 224 Roosevelt Trail, (Rte. 302) So. Casco.

FRIDAYS Jumpin’ Janes Senior Fitness, 9 a.m., Town Hall, No. High St., Bridgton.

Parents and Children Activity Group, 10 to 11:30 a.m., Casco Community Center.

Brownfield Playgroup, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., Brownfield Community Center.

Tai Chi Maine beginner practice, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., Bridgton Town Hall.

AWANA Youth Program, 3:30 to 5:30 p.m., Cornerstone Gospel Church, corner Rtes.

302 & 114, Naples. FMI: 6936102, 803-2199.

Narcotics Anonymous, 7 p.m. Bridgton Community Center, 15 Depot St. ODLH SATURDAYS Tabletop Role Playing Games, 9:30 a.m., Bridgton Community Center.

Makers Club, 10 a.m., Bridgton Community Center.

AA Beginner’s & Group Mtgs., 7 to 8 p.m., Clyde Bailey Center, 224 Roosevelt Trail, (Rte. 302) So. Casco.

SUNDAYS Table Tennis, 1-4 p.m., Bridgton Town Hall, No. High St., all welcome. Equipment provided free, 7 tables.

Adult Basketball, 6 p.m., Town Hall, No. High St., Bridgton.

Alcoholics Anonymous, 6:30 p.m., Harrison Congregational Church, corner Route 117 and Dawes Hill Rd.

Page B, The Bridgton News, December 26, 2013

Country living

Welfare system and accountability

Progressives and liberals think the status quo in our welfare system is just fine.

They refuse to support any reforms, but Mainers know they’re out of touch. Mainers know the system is broken.

Current leadership rejected proposed legislation that requires applicants to look for work before signing up for welfare. This is common sense legislation, and 19 other states already have these work-search requirements.

We will submit legislation that would require those asking for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families to show that they applied for three jobs before seeking TANF welfare benefits. This requirement is for able-bodied applicants,

who have no extenuating circumstances, such as disabilities, that prevent them from being able to work immediately.

TANF already requires that recipients participate in ASPIRE and search for work or get job training while receiving benefits. This bill simply says that those who are able to work must look for work before they can get TANF benefits.

We believe that people, who are able to work, should try to find work before they ask taxpayers for help.

We will also submit legislation that eliminates or amends exceptions to the requirement that TANF recipients must participate in ASPIRE work-

Views from Augusta

by Paul LePage Governor of Maine search programs. A variety of exceptions now allow TANF recipients to skip participation in ASPIRE. When ablebodied people receive welfare from the taxpayers, they must be looking for work.

We believe in a welfare-towork system that transitions people off government benefits and puts them on the road to independence.

Mainers are good people

who are always willing to lend a helping hand. But now they feel like they’re being taken advantage of. These bills make sure that those who are receiving welfare benefits are working just as hard as the Maine taxpayers who are providing them.

Finally, we will submit legislation that will crack down on the widespread abuse of EBT cards. These are debit

cards that are loaded each month with cash and benefits for those on welfare. This cash is supposed to provide assistance to the children of needy families.

Unfortunately, too many people use their EBT cards to purchase illegal drugs, alcohol, lottery tickets and cigarettes. They also use them at casinos and other places that have nothing to do with providing the basic necessities to children and families.

Children do not need alcohol or cigarettes or lottery tickets. Our bill will make it illegal to purchase these items with EBT cards.

We have found some EBT cards issued in Maine are being used in places such

as Las Vegas and Florida, as well as other states. Our bill will limit use of the cards to a certain geographic area.

Hard-working Mainers do not provide these cash benefits so people can have fun in other states.

The reforms in these bills won’t harm those who are truly needy or who need a hand up during tough times.

If they really need assistance and agree to play by the rules, Mainers are more than happy to provide them with benefits.

But, we can no longer tolerate an unchecked welfare system that has no accountability.

Mainers demand accountability from their government, and that should apply to our welfare system too.

Despite challenges ACA making a difference

Since the health care insurance exchanges were launched on Oct. 1, my office has received many calls about the Affordable Care Act. And there’s no way around it — people have been very frustrated by website problems at Healthcare.gov. (I count myself among them.)

But since improvements have been made, people have also contacted me with their success stories. One mother said she was able to get coverage for her five-year-old son who has a heart condition — something she wouldn’t have been able to do before.

A 65-year-old woman said she was in “seventh heaven” because she hadn’t had any insurance for the last 30 years. One small business owner said he couldn’t afford insurance until now. And one family said they are relieved and excited to sign up for a new plan that provides better coverage at a more affordable price than what they had before.

Do any of the problems these folks had sound familiar? Have you tried unsuccessfully to get insurance before, found costs out of your reach, or were worried that your coverage wouldn’t do enough if you or a family member got sick?

If so, I hope you look into what options are available to you by going to Healthcare. gov, calling 1-800-318-2596, or contacting a local group who can assist you (you can find them at www.enroll207. com). And don’t forget that you may qualify for subsidies to pay your premiums — a calculator is available at the Kaiser Family Foundation’s site, www.kff.org. The enrollment period goes until the end of March.

I don’t want to minimize the difficult experiences people have been having enrolling. There’s no excuse for the problems and, while I’m glad improvements have been made, we need to keep working to make it smoother

Views from Congress

by Chellie Pingree United States Congresswoman for everyone.

But let’s try to put things in perspective. Remember what things were like before the Affordable Care Act? Insurance companies routinely denied people coverage because of such manageable conditions as anxiety or diabetes. They could drop you when you were sick. Some plans set lifetime limits on coverage, so you could suddenly find yourself without coverage when you needed it most. And companies had no limits on jacking up individual premiums more than 20% a year to pad profits or CEO bonuses.

They can’t do these things anymore, because of the

Affordable Care Act. Whether you have purchased your own insurance or have coverage through your employer, insurance plans have improved in other ways. They cover preventive practices — like an annual physical and mammogram — at no cost to you.

They have to cover mental health services if you need them. And at least 80% of premiums have to go directly to paying for health care services, not profit, administration or marketing.

In addition to insurance reform, there are other ways the Affordable Care Act is making a difference.

It’s helped create community health centers across the

country, which have served millions of Americans. It invested in training more doctors and nurses. And it has improved Medicare coverage while closing the prescription drug donut hole.

But the biggest problem the Affordable Care Act tackles is bringing down the number of uninsured Americans.

The lack of coverage is not just terrible for these families, but contributes to rising health care costs for everyone else when these folks have to go to the emergency room to get medical care. It’s not sustainable or productive for the country to have such a large population of people who can’t get the care they need. And it just isn’t right.

The Affordable Care Act is our best hope right now to address this terrible problem. Soon after it passed in 2010, parents were able to keep children on their plans until age 26. The health care exchanges launched this year offer subsidies for people

who have to buy insurance on the individual market.

And Medicaid expanded to cover more people — nearly 5 million people across the country have been added so far.

You’ve probably heard that Maine has opted not to expand Medicaid, and that bills passed by the State Legislature to do so have been vetoed. Nearly 70,000 Mainers who can’t afford health insurance right now could benefit. It’s heartbreaking that we are leaving these folks with no place to turn when we could cover them at very little cost to the state.

The Affordable Care Act isn’t a perfect solution, but it is an important step. For the mother who can now find coverage for her son and the small business owner who can finally afford insurance, the law has made a difference. We can’t ignore the law’s challenges, but let’s not forget the stories of these folks either.

Help with Affordable Care Act enrollment

(Continued from Page B) who receive care through the hospital or its providers.

“We can help arrange payment plans, assist with applications for Medication Bridge (a prescription assistance program), Medicaid, Memorial’s Healthcare Assistance Program, and the NH Health Access Network which offers financial aid for multiple hospitals in the state,” she said.

Memorial’s Community Relations Director Kathy Bennett said the hospital was pleased to provide the community with certified counselors.

“We know that people like having a local name and face to turn to with important questions. Our three counselors have been very busy since we were listed on Healthcare.gov earlier this month, and we’re glad to help,” she said.

People can call with questions or to set up an appointment with one of the counselors. They are available Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to noon, and 1 to 3 p.m.

Calls should be directed to 603-356-5461, ext. 2220.

“Affordable Care Act Resources” information has been added to the hospital’s website and can be accessed at www.memorialhospitalnh. org/health-wellness/affordable-care-act-resources Looking for information on the Affordable Care Act and what it means to you, your business or our community?

Memorial Hospital has compiled a list of reliable resources, organizations and other websites you can use to learn more about this important topic. Here are just a few. Find more at the hospital’s website or by calling their financial counselors at 603-356-5461, ext. 2220.

Health Insurance Marketplace Information: www.healthcare.gov How to Apply for Marketplace Coverage in New Hampshire: www.healthcare.gov/howdo-i-apply-for-marketplacecoverage For Consumers:

Understanding Health Care Reform, the Kaiser Family Foundation: kff.org/aca-consumerresources NH State Exchange

Profile, from Kaiser Family Foundation: kff.org/health-reform/stateprofile/state-exchange-profiles-new-hampshire Small Business Association

– Affordable Care Act Training Information: www.sba.gov/content/ affordable-care-act-trainingmaterials Memorial Hospital & Mt.

Tacking across winter continued (Continued from Page B) remember when I last wished for ice, at least on the ground.

Now, the adrenaline rush experienced sliding down a hill is qualitatively different when gripping the wheel of a 2,000-pound machine than it was steering a Flexible Flyer. Now, I would gladly exchange my 50 pounds of down and layers of this and that for a pair of wool long johns. And my crosscountry skis? They haven’t been out of the closet since Jimmy Carter was president.

Sinclair Lewis said, “winter is not a season, it’s an occupation.” These many, many years later, I find I agree.

Given that Maine winters are long and my tolerance for grumbling, even my own, is short, I decided I had to do something about the prob-

lem of winter, since nature was obviously unwilling to do so. One solution to winter, I thought, would be to flee to Florida or Arizona.

Fleeing is an honorable solution. “He who shovels and runs away, lives to shovel another day.” Alas, fleeing south is not possible for us at this time. Another solution to the problem of winter would be to continue doing what I have been doing, that is spending the short days and long months of winter staring morosely over the top of a pile of seed catalogs at the ever-growing pile of snow and ice. And, of course, complaining.

There is a third solution to the problem of winter, however. That solution is to change or to try a different tack, not unlike in a sailboat

when to sail upwind, you tack back and forth across the wind. You don’t fight the wind or run away from it; instead you work with the wind to reach your destination. This winter, I will try a different tack; in fact, I probably will try one tack and then another, working with and zigzagging around

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Regional Sports

December 26, 2013, The Bridgton News, Page C

‘We grew up tonight’ Raiders close out Poland

By Wayne E. Rivet Staff Writer FRYEBURG — One couldn’t blame Sean Watson for getting a little nervous.

The FA varsity girls’ basketball coach has seen the script before — his Raiders build up a nice lead against a quality opponent, only to see his club struggle to score in big moments and lose the game.

Fryeburg built a ninepoint lead against visiting Poland Saturday afternoon, but saw the cushion dwindle to 35-33 with 6:18 left in the game.

Rather than fold, the Raiders took charge. Six straight foul shots and a pull-up jumper in the lane by senior Skye Dole answered the Knights’ challenge as Fryeburg captured a 55-41 TRAPPED — Falmouth forward Dayna Vasconcelos looks for help after being trapped victory. in the corner by Lake Region defenders Jordan Turner (#10) and Lucy Fowler. An “We grew up a little bit aggressive press sparked the Lakers to a 19-2 first quarter lead.

(Rivet Photos) tonight. It’s a quality win against a quality team. They cut our lead to two, but our kids showed some resilience.

They didn’t get rattled. I don’t know that we would have had a similar outcome last year. It’s a good team win,” said Fryeburg Coach Sean Watson, whose club won its second straight game after a 0-3 start. The Raiders are ranked eighth in the current Class B West Heal

By Wayne E. Rivet Ratings.

Staff Writer Before Saturday’s doubleTiana-Jo Carter wanted to dip, a special ceremony was make amends for what she held at Wadsworth Arena considered a bad performance with the surprise unveiling the night before. of a new scorer’s table in Carter played with a venNOWHERE TO GO? — Fryeburg Academy forward memory of Gregg Sanborn, geance Thursday, scoring Sarah Welch (left) tries to drive baseline against Poland’s 47, who died in February 35 points and hauling down Michaella Arsenault.

(Rivet Photo) 23 rebounds to lead Lake RAIDERS, Page C Region to a 56-45 victory over Falmouth.

“Tonight’s game was really important because we were down on ourselves having lost at Wells (Wednesday).

We just felt like we weren’t working as a team and lost our momentum. Our goal was to come together and regain that team chemistry that we have shown,” the senior cenBy Wayne E. Rivet Knights escaped Wadsworth run the clock down with 45.2 ter said. “I really wanted to Staff Writer Arena with a 47-44 victory. remaining and the score tied. come out and play well for FRYEBURG — CJ Martin Playing short-handed (two “When we got the ball back, the team because last night I played the role of The Grinch players had returned home I decided we would take the fouled out and really didn’t Saturday night. for the holidays leaving FA to last shot. At that point, to have think I played as well as I The senior Poland guard play just seven, thus prevent- battled back so many times, can.” stunned the Raiders by con- ing them to go with their upt- it made sense to hold for one Carter dominated necting on a long-range 3- empo style at both ends for a (shot) before our legs were Falmouth’s frontcourt, scorpoint shot at the buzzer as the full game), the Raiders tried to completely gone,” FA Coach ing 13 points in the first quarSedge Saunders said. ter as the Lakers built a 19-2 Coach Saunders called a lead. LR point guard Sarah timeout with 21 seconds left to Hancock was the trigger for set the final play. the quick start, often fitting But, the Raiders were whisthe ball through tight passing tled for an offensive foul on a lanes to Carter, who was in driving attempt by Alex Blake prime position to score close with 1.9 seconds left on the to the hoop. clock.

“In practice, we have been Poland fired a long pass working on offensive moves, to Martin, who was able to not always doing the same pull the trigger fast enough as things,” Carter said. “The FA’s Jaquan Causer attempted guards are doing a really good to block the shot. The jumper job finding the inside playfell. The buzzer sounded. And, ers.”

Martin, who netted 14 points, It can be difficult to find did a few celebratory jump enough space to get Carter steps down the court as he was the ball since many teams are surrounded by teammates. attempting to jam the lane.

“Unfortunately, after our FLOATER — LR point guard Sarah Hancock (#12) floats “We know that every team next time-out with 21 sec- a shot over a Falmouth defender during last Thursday’s that we play ia going to double victory over the Yachtsmen. onds to go, we didn’t get the LAKERS, Page C ball back to Gullikson, which was the plan. We were a little discombobulated, and here’s where I should have called time-out again. After reflectBRUNSWICK — Lake bined tally of 38-feet, 6Kate’s effort broke her ing on this, I know it was a big Maine all-time best effort mistake on my part,” Coach Region’s Kate Hall (19- inches.

“It is not a regular event of 18-6 set last year.

Saunders said. “The other thing feet 2-inches), Casey Heath The LR girls also ran I would change, if I could, is (12-7) and Destinee Durant (combining the jumps of not going man against Poland’s (10-6) combined to win three athletes), but a school three legs on a 4x200m in-bounds play with 1.9 on the the long jump event at the record is a school record,” relay with an athlete from clock. We play zone and we’re Bowdoin Relays Saturday. Laker Coach Mark Snow Brunswick. Because the Their combined total of said. “It was a great result team was comprised of two comfortable with it, but you considering schools, the result did not have to be able to account for 42-feet 3-inches also broke especially each player with a last second the school record (38-5) it was the first time that count in scoring. Their play and by not going man set in 2004. Waterville fin- Destinee and Casey have time (2:00.61) was the third best at the meet. we allowed Martin to get free ished second with a com- ever long jumped.” enough for a good look at the hoop.”

Coach Saunders put the final outcome on his shoulders.

WELLS — Matt Boucher 1:10, but lost by a 6-5 deciIn other action: “I’m very disappointed in 160: Hunter Day recordmy game management down and Andrew Lyman each sion to Trevor Kitchen of the stretch. These kids deserved reached the finals of their Maine Central Institute in the ed a pin in 2:57, and then lost to Jackson Howarth of to win that game and I feel like respective weight classes finals.

Lyman, competing at 285 Marshwood (who went on to I let them down. Luckily, I to help lead the Fryeburg have the break to go over last Academy wrestling team to pounds, notched two pins win the weight class) by decisecond and situational strate- a fifth place finish at the (36 seconds and 1 minute) to sion. Day finished in third Atlantic Invitational in reach the finals against Cody place. gies,” he said.

INSIDE-THE-LANE JUMPER — Raider Alex Blake Spicer of York. Spicer won 170: Willy MacFawn had He was really impressed by Wells. takes a shot over two Poland defenders during Saturday’s his club’s full fight effort to the Wrestling at 152 pounds, the match with a pin at the an early pin at 1:26, then fell match-up at Wadsworth Arena.

(Rivet Photo) WRESTLERS, Page C BUZZER, Page C Boucher recorded a pin in 3:55 mark.

Lakers respond big after first loss

Buzzer beater

Poland’s CJ Martin stuns Raiders on last second shot

LR trio win long jump

Wrestlers reach finals

Page C, The Bridgton News, December 26, 2013

Regional sports

Raiders answer Poland charge (Continued from Page C) after a battle with cancer.

A former FA athlete and a Maine Game Warden for 23 years, Gregg epitomized the term “team player,” willing to do whatever it took to make the team better. After the new table was unveiled

by FA Coaches Watson and Sedge Saunders, along with current Raider hoopsters Jaquan Causer and Sydney Charles, Gregg’s mother — Blanche — re-emphasized the importance that every player on a roster is vital to a team’s success, not just the Starting Five.

Coach Watson couldn’t agree more.

“I knew Greg. His mom was my third grade teacher,” he said. “We talked in the locker room about what was said during the ceremony.

Even though there were kids that didn’t get (playing) minutes tonight, they contributed to this win. They work hard in practice and push the other kids. Even during our timeouts, we talked about getting team points. It wasn’t about who scores. It worked out well for us.”

Watson hoped his Raiders could seize their advantage in the lane. Dole made her presence felt with nine points and 17 rebounds. Due to some foul trouble, Watson went to his bench and freshman Nicole Bennett made the most of her chance in prime time. She hauled down a couple of rebounds and was relentless inside, scoring eight points — six of them in the third quarter.

“After playing several JV minutes, she really gave us a boost offensively and defensively. She played well beyond her years. She fit right in with the rest of the group. She doesn’t have any fear, which we noticed during summer basketball,” Coach Watson said. “Coach L’Heureux suggested we give Nicole a try. It was a real good call.”

Fryeburg took an early 97 lead as Julia Quinn nailed a three-pointer, Charles converted a lay-up and Lexi L’Heureux-Carland scored four points.

The Raiders opened the lead to 18-11 on hustle plays as McKenna Gerchman came down with an offensive rebound and scored.

With the Knights attempting

REMEMBERING GREGG — The Friends of Gregg Sanborn presented Fryeburg Academy with a new scorers’ table in memory of the former Raider and Maine Game Warden, who lost his battle to cancer this past February. Above left, current FA players Jaquan Causer and to clog the lane, Raiders Charles and Quinn each had open looks at treys and each buried jumpers to push the FA lead to 21-13.

Fryeburg led 22-16 at the half.

The Raiders increased the lead to eight entering the final quarter with a 5of-6 effort at the foul line, Bennett’s six points and another jumper by Charles with 51.2 seconds left.

Poland (4-2) would make it interesting. The Knights scored the first six points of the fourth to trail by just a bucket.

“Experienced teams are always going to make a run.

We need to limit those runs to six points and not 12.

Let’s try to answer with a good defensive possession and then try to get points at the other end. Good shots and not allow scoring droughts to last too long,” Coach Watson said. “We’ve had that happened this year, and it wasn’t because of good defense we were facing.”

RAIDERS, Page C

Sydney Charles presented Gregg’s mother, Blanche, with flowers. Right, Blanche Sanborn reminded players and fans that every player is important and contributes in some way toward a team’s success.

(Rivet Photos)

Buzzer beater sinks FA (Continued from Page C) very end.

“It was a great effort by the guys. We got a great contribution from Ben Southwick, who hadn’t played in a varsity game until Saturday.

I was impressed with Ben’s poise and ability to handle the pressure of such an intense and close fought game,” Coach Saunders said.

“Obviously, we got a great game from Ryan Gullikson. He really rose to the occasion. It was the first time I think I’ve actually seen him winded. He’s like the Energizer bunny. He can

run for days. You could tell he was running on fumes at times, but he dug deep in the fourth and competed like a champion. Jaquan (Causer) and Alex (Blake)) were both nursing injuries so for them to play that many minutes under those conditions, says a lot about their heart. Jon Burk gave us his usually good all around game and Nick L’Heureux-Carland had also provided us with quality minutes.”

The loss was the Raiders’ first of the season after starting 4-0 and a seventh-place ranking in FA HOOPS, Page C

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Regional sports

December 26, 2013, The Bridgton News, Page C

Lakers improve to 5-1

TWO OF 35 — Lake Region center Tiana-Jo Carter erupted for 13 first quarter points en route to a dominant 35-point, 23-rebound night against Falmouth.

Hoop scoreboard

(Continued from Page C) or triple team Tiana. In practice, we put people on her and work on getting passes to her. If teams double or triple team, we then have open shots on the outside,” Hancock said.

LR Coach Paul True has commented several times how Hancock has taken a bigger leadership role on the court this year, a stabilizing presence that has helped guide the team to a 5-1 mark at the holiday break.

“Sydney (Hancock) is not with me any more. She was the big leader on the court. I knew that as soon as she was gone, I had to step up as a leader and as a point guard.

I had to make some changes in the way I play to fill her shoes and be a leader on the court,” Sarah said. “I try to go with the flow.”

The loss to Wells could help the Lakers in the long run, Hancock believes.

“For our team, we don’t know what to do if we get down. We need to play our game and not let them get into our heads,” she said. “It was definitely frustrating.

We weren’t on our game.

We learned so much from that game. We need to stay composed during situations that aren’t going our way. To pressure without fouling. To adjust on how the officials are calling a game. Just play our game and not get caught up in the emotions.”

Thursday, the Lakers were eager to get back to work.

“Today, we had a meeting before our game and put closure on last night’s game — totally put it out of our minds, everything was erased,” Hancock said. “Tonight, we were ready to go.”

And go, they did.

Falmouth (1-4) managed just two field goals in the first quarter against the Lakers’ aggressive full-court pressure, which forced nine turnovers.

The LR lead swelled to 24 with three minutes gone in the second quarter as Carter scored eight straight points.

GIRLS’ BASKETBALL Gloucester 65-50 Saturday.

After trailing 10-9 after Lakers lose at Wells: Give an assist to the offi- one, the Lakers built a 27-21 cials. Whistles blew often halftime lead. The teams each last Wednesday night when HOOP, Page C the Lakers traveled to Wells, and ultimately changed the game’s complexion.

The Lakers started fast with a 13-2 lead over the Warriors, but foul trouble Orthopaedic Surgery & Sports Medicine would swing the game in Wells’ favor. With center 55 Main Street Tiana-Jo Carter out of the Bridgton, ME 04009 game after picking up her Phone 207-647-3633 fifth personal foul, Wells rallied from a nine-point deficit 100 Brickhill Ave., Suite 303 to claim a 44-36 victory.

South Portland, ME 04106 “She’s the single most Phone 207-774-4523 TF36 dominating force in our league,” said Wells Coach Don Abbott. “(Carter’s foul trouble) changed the complexion of the game.”

LR led 15-6 after one and 27-18 at the half. But, Wells stormed back with a 15-3 charge and closed out the game with a 13-4 surge.

For the Lakers, Carter finished with 12 points, while Sarah Hancock and Kristen Huntress each chipped in 7 T points. Other scorers were: LLEN USE EXCEATION KI HO CeCe Hancock 4, Miranda S T A C LO GRE Chadbourne 2, Jordan Turner 2 and Meghan VanLoan 2 points.

Wells’ Allison Furness led all scorers with 16 points.

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Lakers rolled past Gray-New

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DENY DEFENSE — Lake Region forward Miranda Chadbourne (right) looks to prevent Falmouth’s Adelaide Cooke from receiving the ball during last Thursday’s contest at Naples.

(Rivet Photos) Freshman Kristen Huntress continued to show confidence from behind the arc, sinking consecutive 3pointers to push the LR lead to 35-10.

Falmouth cut into the lead before the half, sinking 5-of6 foul shots to trail 37-17.

Foul trouble sank the Lakers the night before, and nearly opened the door for a Falmouth comeback. With three players tagged for four fouls each, Coach True juggled his lineup. Jessica Burton scored 10 points in the third quarter to help Falmouth cut the deficit to 17.

The “hand-check” foul has been a particularly tough one to avoid for the overly- aggressive Laker defenders.

“It’s especially hard when new rules come out and you try to get used to them. We’re learning to play with our feet more than reaching, which is good, in a way. We really need to get into the mindset. We haven’t got there yet. I hope it will come,” Hancock said. “The last foul I picked up was a stupid foul. I should have just let the girl shoot the ball.

I needed to adjust how I was

playing — just play good, solid defense — not try to steal it, just play solid.”

Carter delivered a big offensive put-back and foul shot to return the lead to 20 at the start of the final quarter. Although the Lakers missed six straight foul shots, Falmouth turned the ball over three times, thus stealing chances to narrow the gap.

With 2:20 left and up 17, Coach True pulled his starters. Falmouth was able to cut the deficit to 11 by leaving two starters on the floor against LR reserves.

For the Lakers, Huntress finished with 6 points, Lucy Fowler had 5, CeCe Hancock 4, Jordan Turner 4 and Meghan VanLoan 2.

“We’re learning how to work together better on offense. Ball movement has been one of the key points in our game so far.

Especially against Wells, we didn’t move the ball well like we needed to — around the perimeter, into Tiana and back out. We did a better job this game,” Sarah Hancock said. “We didn’t take shots that we didn’t need to. We were more composed.”

Lakers knock off Pats Clutch hoops and free throws powered Lake Region to a 43-36 victory Saturday at Gray-New Gloucester.

Coming off a huge win over previously undefeated Wells, the Patriots looked to make it two straight against the league’s top contenders.

GNG started well, building a 15-11 lead. But, the Lakers took control of the game in the middle quarters by outscoring the Patriots 10-4 and 12-5. Down the stretch, the Lakers iced the game at the foul line, finishing the afternoon with 14 points from the charity stripe.

Tiana-Jo Carter and CeCe Hancock paced a balanced Laker attack each scoring 10 points. Jordan Turner chipped in 9 points while Meghan VanLoan had 5, Kristen Huntress 5 and Sarah Hancock 4.

Maria Valente of GNG (3-3) led all scorers with 14 points.

The Lakers (5-1) climbed in the Heal Points, moving up to second place behind Spruce Mountain (6-0).

Wells (4-1) is tied with the Lakers. Gray-NG and Greely (4-2) round out the Top 5.

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UNIQUE LODGE HOME Bridgton – Spacious living area w/ stone fplc., 4BR, 2.5BA, 2-car gar. under plus a guest cottage, all sited on 3.8-ac. homesite w/towering pines. $249,900

100 FT. FRONTAGE MOOSE POND Bridgton – Dock in Knights Hill. 4BR, 3 full BA, screened porch, deck, furnished, oversized 2-car gar., pool, tennis, beach & clubhouse. Shawnee Peak 5 min. away. $299,000

MOOSE POND ACCESS Bridgton – Boatslip. 3BR, 2BA, lots of extras. Lg. sunroom w/woodstove, living area, open to kitchen, finished bsmt., 2car gar. Walk to Shawnee Peak. $198,000

LOG HOME w/RUSSIAN FIREPLACE Bridgton – .77-ac. open concept, brick hearth in kitchen, with 2BR & BA on 2nd level. Detached barn/garage. $125,000

MOOSE POND WATERFRONT Denmark – Shallow, sandy frontage w/mountain views. Minutes to skiing at Shawnee Peak. Great opportunity at this price. $259,900

— LAND — • Bridgton – 15-ac. lot w/frontage on both Rt. 302W and on Ciliberto Rd. Soft, spongy moss bottom w/paths throughout the pines. Very nice lot for building, commercial or residential, and just 1 mile to Shawnee Peak. Heart of 4Season recreation and only 30 min. to No. Conway, N.H. $59,900 • Bridgton – Highland Lake access building lot w/great road frontage! 740 ft. on this 2.53-ac. parcel w/Highland Lake rights and protective covenants. Private boat dock & 1000 ft. common lakefront w/swimming dock, float, gazebo & picnic area. Excellent fishing, too! $98,000 • Bridgton – 2 lots for sale in busy commercial area just off Rts. 302 & 117. Spacious, lg. & partly-cleared. Great place for your business. 5.42 ac. at $63,000 & 4.89 ac. at $59,500

Page C, The Bridgton News, December 26, 2013

Regional sports

Freedom of hills Frankenstein Cliff hike

“Mountain hikes instilled in me a life-long urge to get to the top of any inviting summit or peak.”

— Paul D. Boyer

BLOCKED AND FOULED — Fryeburg Academy forward Lexi L’Heureux-Carland (#15) shoots inside the lane against Poland defender Emily Bolduc (left).

(Rivet Photo)

Raiders fend off Knights

(Continued from Page C) Fryeburg stayed aggressive, attacking the inside.

They were rewarded with 18 trips to the foul line in the fourth — and they made it count, sinking 16 to close out the Knights.

“I still don’t think we were patient enough trying to get the ball inside as much as we would like,” Coach Watson said.

He was, however, was impressed with the overall effort of his squad. Coach Watson praised the defensive work turned in by Sarah Welch and Mackenzie Buzzell, who earned the assignment of guarding Poland’s leading scorer, Michaella Arsenault,

who netted 12 points. Guard Emily Bolduc led the Knights with 14 points.

“Despite her injury, Sarah showed some real guts trying to deny the Arsenault girl. Regardless of how many points she scored, she really had to work for them,” Coach Watson said.

With a quality win in their pocket, Coach Watson hopes his Raiders are starting to understand just what it takes to beat other playoff contending teams.

“Deep down, the kids believe they can compete.

Sometimes, you worry about all the external stuff — bad call, turnover or bad pass.

Then, how does it affect the

next plays,” he said. “We need to block everything out and focus on what needs to be done ‘right now’ to make the team better. We did that down the stretch tonight.

There was no finger-pointing. We showed some pretty good chemistry. And, I hope it continues.”

For the Raiders, Julia Quinn was high scorer with 16 points. Other scorers included L’Heureux-Carland 8, Charles 7, Gerchman 4, Buzzell 2 and Welch 1.

Stat lines: Fryeburg had 17 turnovers to Poland’s 14…Three officials worked the game. FA was 25-of-30 from the foul line, Poland 14-of-22.

MWV spring travel soccer

The Mt. Washington Valley Soccer Club (MWVSC) is proud to announce its 2014 travel team tryout schedule.

Tryouts are open to any player from Western Maine or New Hampshire wishing to become involved with travel soccer.

Tryouts to be held at Kennett Middle School gym in Conway, N.H. will be on: Sunday, Jan. 5, 2014 from 3 to 6 p.m.

Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2014 from 7 to 9 p.m.

Sunday, Jan. 12, 2014 from 3 to 6 p.m.

Tryouts will be for the following teams: U-10 boys/ girls; U-12 boys/girls; U-14 co-ed; U-18 boys; and U-18 girls.

What to bring: Indoor soccer shoes or sneakers, shin guards, appropriate shorts/ shirts and water bottle.

Players should plan to make at least one of the tryout sessions.

Players and parents are reminded that there will be a

BANKRUPTCY

minimum of two training sessions per week and a schedule will be published by each coach. If space can be secured, indoor training sessions will be conducted; otherwise outdoor training will take place once the snow has melted and the fields are ready. Most outdoor training sessions will be held at Kennett Middle School. Every effort is made to respect the schedule of the other spring school sports players may be participating in.

The club teams play in SOCCER, Page C

By Allen Crabtree Guest Writer As motorists drive north through Crawford Notch, Frankenstein Cliff is a very prominent bluff on the west side of the highway, just south of Mount Willey. The views of the southern end of Crawford Notch from the Frankenstein Cliff overlook are spectacular and, I believe, rival the views of the Notch from the summit of Mount Willard further north.

Frankenstein Cliff has nothing to do with the story by that name about the mad scientist Victor Frankenstein, written by British author Mary Shelley and published in 1818.

Instead, the cliff and the railroad trestle at the base of the cliff were named for Godfrey N. Frankenstein (1820-1873), a noted artist from Springfield, Ohio.

Dr. Samuel Bemis, a Boston dentist who owned much of Crawford Notch at that time and who named many of the features of the White Mountains, was a friend with Godfrey Frankenstein. Dr. Bemis gave Frankenstein’s name to the cliffs just above Bemis Station on the Maine Central Railroad, as well as the Frankenstein Railroad Trestle. The Portland and Ogdensburg Railroad built this engineering feat of its day in 1871. It is a 500-foot long iron structure that spans one of the deepest gorges or crevasses (80 feet) in the White Mountains. A new steel one in 1895 replaced the trestle.

Frankenstein had painted the cliff and the Dry River below, which was used by the railroad to advertise the wonderful Crawford Notch scenery. Frankenstein also painted many famous landscapes of the region, including his 1847 “White Mountains in New Hampshire.” He also painted two landscapes “Mount Washington over Tuckerman’s Ravine” and “The Notch of the White Mountains from Mount Crawford,” which were plates #14 and #16 in William Oakes 1848 “Scenery of the White Mountains.”

According to Frederick W. Kilbourne’s Chronicles of the White Mountains (1916) the Great Carbuncle, a lumi-

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nous red gemstone immortalized in Hawthorne’s Twice Told Tales — The Great Carbuncle — A Mystery Of The White Mountains lies somewhere near Frankenstein Cliff. Kilbourne describes the legend: “…somewhere in the glen of the Dry, or Mount Washington River, a tributary of the Saco which joins the latter nearly opposite the Frankenstein Cliff, was hidden, under a shelving rock, a glorious carbuncle.

This gem, it was declared, had been placed there by the Indians, who killed one of their number so that an evil spirit might haunt the

place.”

This legend persisted for hundreds of years; parties have climbed the hills and valleys looking for it, all with disappointing results. Today the cliffs of Frankenstein and the railroad trestle are still imposing to look at, rare gemstone or not. The trail up or down the cliff to the overlook is challenging but the view of the southern end of Crawford Notch is worth the effort. The trail connects with the Arethusa Falls Trail allowing a loop back to the Frankenstein Cliff trailhead, with a side trip either coming or going to Arethusa Falls.

HILLS, Page C

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(Continued from Page C) Class B West.

In a back-and-forth contest, Poland built a 15-9 first quarter lead as Tyler Michaud sank a 3-pointer at the buzzer, was fouled and made a foul shot.

Buzzer beaters would be a theme for the Knights (2-4). Poland scored the final points of each quarter — an Alan Young baseline drive to end the second, giving the Knights a 28-26 halftime lead, and Michaud draining a trey with 1.2 seconds left in the third, putting his team up 40-35.

FA sophomore Ryan Gullikson continued his sterling play, keeping the Raiders close in the second quarter by scoring 10 of his game-high 21 points. Gullikson torched the Poland in several ways — he came up with steals resulting in fastbreak hoops, showed his quick first step getting him into the lane for short jumpers, and displayed his shooting range, dropping a three-ball.

Gullikson canned a three-pointer to close the deficit to 30-29 to start the third quarter, but the Raiders were unable to get over the hump as Martin connected on a trey and mid-range jumper to make it 37-35, Poland.

Blake (12 points) tightened the contest with a 3-pointer from the left corner to open the fourth quarter. He dropped another one from about the same spot with 2:54 left in the game to tie it at 42-42.

Gullikson tipped away a pass and beat Poland defenders to the hoop to give the Raiders a 44-42 lead. But, the Knights tied it on a strong baseline drive by Young (5 points), setting the stage for a wild finish.

“They never could put us away. Poland was up nine before the half and our guys showing major fatigue, but we battled back to cut it to two at the half. It was a battle of wills in the second half and I thought Poland looked more tired than us in the fourth quarter,” Coach Saunders said. “The pressure was on them and I thought we really were in control even though we never led by more than a few points. Even when we were down five, I knew the guys would battle back. It will be an exciting second half of the season.”

For the Raiders, Jonathan Burk chipped in 7 points and 10 rebounds, while Jaquan Causer had 4 points, 8 rebounds and two blocked shots. Stat line: Both teams turned the ball over 20 times…Looking for another difference maker. Poland was 10-of14 from the foul line while the Raiders were 6-of-11.

Fun & games

December 26, 2013, The Bridgton News, Page C

Hoop scoreboard

This week’s puzzle theme: In the kitchen

ACROSS 1. On a day like this, one can see forever 6. Barley bristle 9. “____ up!”

13. Former French currency 14. *Poor man’s caviar 15. Walk through slush 16. “He’s _ ____ nowhere man” (The Beatles) 17. Mike’s sugary partner 18. These lips sink ships 19. *Cook briefly 21. *Cook in oil 23. ___ Gabriel 24. Greek muse’s strings 25. Before now 28. Le Corbusier’s art 30. State further 35. *Coffee servers 37. Clever tactic 39. Bristles 40. San Quentin, e.g.

41. Shocking gun 43. Inmate’s blade 44. Full-length 46. Of higher order 47. Famous Amos 48. Three-dimensional sound 50. Tree branch 52. *Salt in cocina 53. “In the ____, you can sail the seven seas” 55. OB-GYN test 57. *Firm pasta, not hard 61. Not sidesaddle 65. Shade of purple 66. Bubble maker 68. Bushed 69. More eccentric 70. *_ __ mode 71. _____ Zola 72. Astute 73. ___ degree 74. Pine product

DOWN 1. Form of approval 2. Italian money 3. ____ and anon 4. Omani and Yemeni 5. To add another magazine 6. Brown part of apple seed, e.g.

7. *Chinese convex pan 8. Down and out 9. Pig food 10. *Pig part, often served pickled 11. America’s WWII ally 12. He plus she 15. Lodging ad: “______ four” 20. Incompetent 22. Pitcher’s stat 24. More or less 25. *For dipping 26. Hollywood’s legendary Cary 27. *Chilled 29. *Can be hardshelled or soft-shelled 31. Boll weevil, e.g.

32. Distinctive spirit of a culture 33. Nigerian money 34. *Coat with hot seasoning 36. Result of too many drinks 38. Sasquatch’s Asian cousin 42. Stadium walkways 45. Ten dollar bill, slang 49. *Bran source 51. *It’s coated on fish of chicken before frying 54. *Strictly vegetarian 56. *Like standing rib

roast 57. Crazily 58. *Serve soup, e.g.

59. City slicker on a ranch 60. Balanced 61. Asian nurse

62. Fleur-de-lis 63. *Cured meat and cold cuts 64. Genesis garden 67. Final, abbr.

Solutions on Page 6C

(Continued from Page C) scored 13 points in the third quarter, but the Lakers opened it up with a 25-16 surge to close out the Patriots (1-55). And, they did it with a balanced attack. Quinn Piland was high scorer for the Lakers with 12 points, while Marcus DeVoe netted 11, Chaine 10, Sam Smith 10 and Mark Williams had 10 points. Other scorers were Nick Hall 7, Nate Smith 3 and Tyler Walker had 2 points. The Lakers were without guard Jackson Lesure.

The Lakers are ranked sixth in the current Heal Ratings.

Lakers drop two: The Lakers had no answer for Falmouth’s Tom Coyne, who scored 21 of his game-high 31 points in the first half, as the Yachtsmen cruised to a 79-54 home victory.

LR (1-4) fell behind 23-7 in the first quarter and saw the deficit climb to 25 at intermission.

Nate Smith paced the LR attack with 14 points, while Marcus DeVoe added 11 points. Other scorers were: Mark Williams 7, Jackson Lesure 6, Ben Chaine 5, Quinn Piland 4, Kyle DeSouza 3, Nick Hall 2 and Nick Wandishin 2.

Last Wednesday at home, the Lakers dropped a 57-51 decision to Wells as Jake Moody netted 32 points for the Warriors.

Mark Williams was LR’s high scorer with 14 points, while Ben Chaine chipped in 13 and Jackson Lesure 10. Other scorers were Marcus DeVoe 6, Nate Smith 4, Nick Hall 2 and Quinn Piland 2. The Lakers played without starting senior guard Sam Smith, who was away due to a death in the family.

Raiders keep rolling along: Fryeburg Academy keeps rolling, extending their win streak to four games with a 63-48 victory at Kennebunk. Alex Blake had a team-high 25 points, while Ryan Gullikson contributed 13 and Jaquan Causer had 10 points. Other scorers were Jonathan Burk five points and Winston Richards had four.

The Raiders led 31-12 at the half, but saw the Rams close the gap with an 18-8 third quarter run. Fryeburg regrouped and finished the game with a 24-18 charge.

Raider wrestlers

(Continued from Page C) to a pin in 3:07. He finished third overall.

182: Trevor Henschel notched a pin in 1:25, then lost a 43 decision to Cyril Miller of Medomak Valley. Miller placed second, while Henschel was fourth.

Here’s how the teams finished: 203.0 Marshwood; 116.5 Mountain Valley; 103.0 Wells; for the loop (Continued from Page C) 89.0 York; 84.5 Fryeburg Academy; 74.0 Biddeford; Hiking time: 2 hour 20 73.0 Dirigo; 55.0 Lisbon; 40.0 MCI;; 39.5 Medomak; In winter, ice climbers are drawn to Frankenstein Cliff minutes for the loop 34.0 Kennebunk; 33.0 Oak Hill.

Elevation: 2,420 feet for the challenging waterfall Vertical gain: 1,300 feet ice routes. According to NE Coordinates: 44o09’21”N Ice Climbs there are numerous climbs ranging from easy, 71o22’01”W Topographic map: USGS low angle to very steep and (Continued from Page C) difficult. The Frankenstein Crawford Notch 7.5-minute a minimum eight-game season through the newly-formed Standard Route (3), Chia quad New Hampshire Soccer League. Games are scheduled on Directions to the Saturdays and/or Sundays from the end of April through (3+), Pegasus (3+/4), Dracula Cliff mid-June 2014.

(4+), Dropline (5), are five of Frankenstein the main waterfall ice routes, Trailhead: Head north Costs: $100 per player for U10; $120 per player for U12, with many others on the cliff. on Route 302 from North U14 and U18.

The Mountain Project lists 29 Conway, through Bartlett For more information, contact MWVSC Executive ice climbs on Frankenstein and into Crawford Notch. At Director Chris Clark at chrisclark.mwvsc@yahoo.com or Cliff, some of them named the south end of Crawford (603) 730- 2225 or Technical Director David Hart at dhart7@ for Lord of the Rings charac- Notch State Park, turn left pivot.net or (207) 462-0246. ters. Altogether, this is one of at the marked turnoff. It is the best ice climbing destina- just beyond the Crawford Notch General Store & tions in the East.

The Denmark Mountain Campground. There are two The Bridgton Ice Arena in North Bridgton will offer pubHikers climbed the parking lots — a lower one lic skating during the month of December as follows: Frankenstein Cliff via near Route 302 and an upper Sunday, Dec. 29 from noon to 2 p.m. one closer to the railroad Arethusa Falls on a bitterly Monday, Dec. 30, 2 to 4 p.m. cold day in January 2013. tracks leading to the Cliff.

Thursday, Dec. 26, noon to 3 p.m.

Trail information: The The trail was snow covered Friday, Dec. 27, 6 to 8 p.m. and the views of Crawford trailhead sign is located Saturday, Dec. 28, noon to 2 p.m.

Notch from the Cliff over- at the railroad tracks near New Year’s Day special, noon to 3 p.m. the upper parking lot, and look were spectacular on this Sticks and Pucks, Sundays, Dec. 29 from 2 to 4 p.m. brilliantly clear winter day. the Frankenstein Cliff loop Conflicts do arise, so call ahead to confirm at 647-7637, We completed the loop by may be climbed either by ext.

1310. Prices: $4 for adults, $3 for students in grades 1going to Arethusa Falls and climbing down the Cliff on the Frankenstein Cliff Trail, then following the top of 12, $2 for children ages 5 and younger, $2 for seniors ages passing under the Chia ice- Frankenstein to the Crawford 62 and older, $5 for sticks and pucks, and $4 for rentals. No climbing waterfall on the way Notch overlook and then skating charges for Bridgton residents (proof of residency before following the railroad returning by climbing down required). tracks back to the trailhead. the Cliff on the Frankenstein Cliff Trail, or reversing direcHike facts Frankenstein Cliff is tion and climbing the loop in Carroll County, Hart’s the other way. Either is challenging but not overly difLocation, N.H. Full-service payroll – Direct deposit available. ficult. There are several trail Difficulty: Moderate Designed for small businesses to make your life easier!

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Page C, The Bridgton News, December 26, 2013

School news Lions’ Student of the Month

NOVEMBER STUDENT OF THE MONTH — Lake Region Vocational Center’s November Mason’s Vocational Student of the Month is Chance Gallant. Chance is enrolled in the new Fire Science Program and the Cooperative Education Program.

He was nominated by both of his instructors. Pictured above (front row, left to right): Colleen Nobert, Cooperative Instructor; Rick Shepard, Fire Science Instructor; Dwayne and Melinda Gallant, parents; Chance; (back row, left to right) Dana Brooks, Mason; Blair Watson, Mason; and Brian Levasseur, Mason.

Elisabeth Waugh of Casco has been selected as the area Lions Clubs’ “Student of the Month” for December.

Each month, area Lions Clubs recognize a Lake Region High School senior who has excelled academically. The recipient is honored at a Lions’ dinner meeting and is presented a monetary award.

Parents: Patricia and Scot Waugh Sibling: Victoria Waugh Activities: Jazz Band, Jazz Choir, Show Choir, National Honor Society, Student Council, Tennis and Soccer Community activities: Red Cross Blood Drives, Casco Days, volunteer at my church Hobbies: Singing, playing the flute, soccer, tennis, traveling Future plans: College

Schools that you have or will apply to: Bowdoin College and the University of Maine at Orono What is your favorite class? My favorite class is AP Government and Politics with Mr. Adam Johnson. This is my favorite class because it is not just intriguing, but it is a lot of fun.

What is your toughest class? My toughest class is Honors Calculus with Mr. Snow. This is my toughest class because it is calculus — calculus is quite difficult and a huge challenge.

How do you balance your class work and your extracurricular activities?

It is really hard to do, but eventually you learn how to use your time wisely and sometimes have a lot of late nights finishing homework.

What is the biggest challenge high school students face today? The biggest challenge for high school students today is keeping focused and not

Elisabeth Waugh getting distracted. With all of the access students have today, it is easy to get very distracted. That is one of the things a high school student has to go through to prepare themselves for college.

Who has inspired you educationally, and why?

The person who has inspired me educationally is my older cousin Corey-Lynn.

She has always excelled at everything that she has tried because she wanted to do her best. Her mentality of working hard to achieve her goals inspires me to try to work as hard as she did.

DECEMBER STUDENT OF THE MONTH — Lake Region Vocational Center’s December Masons’ Vocational Student of the Month is a Cooperative Education student, Brianna Hendricks. Brianna attends both LRVC and Sacopee Valley H.S. She is pictured above with (front, left to right) her instructor, Colleen Nobert; her mother, Nicole Hendricks; and (back, left to right) Mason, Blair Watson and Mason, Steven TEAM EFFORT — Pequawket Valley Alternative School students cut up apples for Merrill. pies, which they donated to the Gibson Center in North Conway, N.H.

PVAS students hold bake off On two bright fall days in October, students from Pequawket Valley Alternative School (PVAS) took field trips to the Pietree Orchard in Sweden and Apple Acres in Hiram.

Not only did students pick apples, but they participated in a science ecology program; geography and land formation, learning about the natural process of the glaciers melting and forming

Denmark Mountain Hikers climbing down the icy face of Frankenstein Cliff, are Trudy Dunn (left) and Diane Sinclair.

(Photo by Allen Crabtree)

Freedom of Hills

(Continued from Page C) junctions along the way so referring to the AMC trail guide is recommended.

Hikers should consult the Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC) White Mountain Guide for more information on Frankenstein Cliff.

What to bring: Clothes suitable to the season (hat, gloves, jacket), rain gear, touring poles, sunglasses, water and snacks, personal first aid kit, pocket knife, whistle, matches or fire starter, map and compass, flashlight or headlamp and cell phone. Let someone know your hiking plans before you leave!

Next: The next hiking column will be on Black Mountain in Jackson, N.H. For the next Denmark Mountain Hikers’ climb check The Bridgton News community calendar.

natural rows for all the apple trees and vegetables. Besides the educational experience, the goal was to pick enough apples to make 12 pies to be donated to the Gibson Center of North Conway, N.H. The following Monday, students were invited to Bradley Bartke’s house to spend the day preparing and baking apple pies. Eleven students and Mrs. Frost and Mr. Kearns spread out to

Walking, talking, getting fit at LRMS The Moxie Team at Lake Region Middle School worked with students to improve their lunchtime experience.

This week was the kickoff for the Civil Rights Team’s mix it up lunch and a Walk & Talk option after students finish eating. The Civil Rights members facilitated seating by number to mix up groups so students could meet someone new. A cube with inter-

peel, core, cut and prepare one dozen apple pies! The pies were then baked and delivered to Gibson Center est questions was rolled so for part of their evening meal people at the table could and celebration of the sealearn something new about son. one another in order to find commonalities.

For the last 10 minutes of each lunch period, students can choose to walk a course around the gym, talking with friends new and old.

Walking has many benefits, including activating brain synapses to improve learning and attention.

The PVAS would like to extend a special thank you to Laura McCabe for welcoming the group into her home and for their use of her kitchen for pie making and a fabulous lunch!

Game Solutions

Holiday Deadlines for New Year’s Week Thursday, Jan. 2nd edition All display advertising is due Fri., Dec. 27th at 5 p.m.

Editorial copy and classified line ads due Fri., Dec. 27th at 12 noon

The Bridgton News office will be closed New Year’s Day, Wed., Jan. 1st.

Happy New Year!

3T50

Opinion & Comment

December 26, 2013, The Bridgton News, Page D

The perfect tree didn’t live on farm

Curse these modern, eternal Christmas trees, lurking around the attic through the warm months, chuckling over their immortality, only their tinsel rusting. A-u-t-h-e-n-t-i-ci-t-y, people!

In the Fifties, we didn’t waste oil manufacturing such artificial bagatelles, we wasted real trees! And at wasting trees, my father was the master, the woodsiest, persnicketiest, most stalwart and true Christmas tree chopper-downer in New England. He would have urged me to add, the brazenest. We owned no land that might possibly yield up the Perfect Tree, but Dad had his eye out all year long for a likely stretch of the Great Outdoors from which we might steal ourselves a beauty.

One year, more than a half century ago now, my father decided to rob the state of New Hampshire and the United States of America.

Those governmental units, after all, controlled a few quadrillion trees already and certainly wouldn’t miss one, not even the most conical conifer in the vast wilds of the White Mountain National Forest.

We parked in a snowed-in rest area lot, right near the Maine state line, a few miles from our house in Shelburne, N.H. Dad hefted The Axe and handed my older brother Bob its smaller cousin, and he pointed into the woods, in the general direction of West Royce Mountain. “This year, my children,” Dad announced, “we go on a quest into these majestic hills, to find The Perfect Tree.

My Irish Up

by Mike Corrigan BN Columnist

I know it’s out there! You too must believe!”

And his eyes were lit with what would have been a strange light — had we not all been so used to it.

Had there been Christmas tree farms then, Dad would not have gone near one. If you had to buy the thing, the Perfect Tree was not really perfect. Where was the challenge?

Preferring a procurement plan based on stealth and theft, a tree stolen from the black market, as it were, my father would have considered it real cheating to purchase one of those artificially-conical, sissy, manicured, over-civilized trees you see on tree farms today. Dad didn’t mind scrounging. In fact, scrounging was a point of honor with the man.

Naturally, each of us wanted to be the one to spot the Perfect Tree. Just a few yards in, my sister Kathy found a candidate, a very shapely blue spruce, only about nine feet in height, nicely filled out. Dad inspected

May Your Holiday Season be filled with love, family and friends Wayne & Susan Rivet, Melissa & Mark Bubier, Matthew Rivet, Kim Rivet, Aaron Chase & Lia Ruthie, Elaine Rioux, Gail Stretton, Eric Gulbrandsen, Sonja Millett, Gail Geraghty, Dawn DeBusk, Lori Plourd, Brad Hooper, Ethel Hurst, Cheryl Harmon, Ferne Adams, Al Glover, Stan Cohen, Mike Corrigan, Tom McLaughlin, S. Peter Lewis, Jean Preis, Henry Precht, Allen Crabtree, Evan Miller and Josh Jacobson

TREE Page D

Front Row Seat

by Tom McLaughlin BN Columnist

Tragic vision

Perception is just a pretzel

I was sitting in my car somewhere I didn’t want to be, running the engine to stay warm. My nose was stuffy, and I didn’t have any tissue.

Luckily, my brother was on the wrestling team; and, he had taught me the fine art of blowing my nose without one.

I located an empty pretzel bag.

I leaned behind my car seat so that passers-by would not view such unladylike behavior.

I cleared my nostril.

At the same time, tiny crumbs from the pretzels flew into my eye.

Ever since then, my view of the world has been twisted.

It Dawned on Me

by Dawn De Busk BN Columnist

All of us Americans alive today inherited the greatest country the world has ever known. For that, we can be grateful. But our inheritance is being squandered before our eyes and we’re This is not the story in After months of inflictallowing it. For that, we should be ashamed. We’ve all but lost which the girl gets a poison ing his meanness on others, sight of what made America great: a constitutionally-limited apple stuck in her throat, and he is whisked away in the government that protects our God-given rights, our traditional ceases to see the world as it middle of the night to the values, and our hard work. is. It’s not that story at all.

Ice Queen’s palace. A girl Twice, we elected a president, who thinks America isn’t This is not Hans Christian — his next-door neighbor exceptional at all. He mocked those of us who believe that Andersen’s version of the Ice and childhood friend — travwhen he said in 2009: “I believe in American exceptionalism, Queen. In that recollection, els across many lands to resjust as I suspect that the Brits believe in British exceptionala shard of ice enters a boy’s cue him, ism and the Greeks believe in Greek exceptionalism.” He eye, and immediately he She rescues him from the was twice elected by a majority who don’t think America is views the world from a dark evil grip of a “sour viewanything special either, who seem ashamed that, although their and angry perspective. point.” country has done more good for the rest of the world than any other, it hasn’t done it perfectly. My fellow baby boomers who in the arts, Schoolhouse pro- join us in 2014! Schoolhouse run America’s institutions seem to believe human perfection is vided arts classes, summer Arts Center needs you, your attainable this side of the grave. They’re utopians. They don’t arts camps, a junior musical talent, your time, your ideas understand the tragic vision workshop which produced and your support. Please conThey’re perpetual adolescents too. We humans fortunate Guys and Dolls Junior, a tact us at schoolhousearts@ enough to have been raised in a nuclear family with a mother junior musical camp which gmail.com and let us know and father who loved each other tended to worship our parents produced The Little Mermaid how you can help. at least until we were teenagers. Then, we noticed they weren’t Junior, and a Teen Summer And, please help keep perfect. For a while, their flaws seemed to magnify until they Shakespeare Workshop the mission of Schoolhouse were all we could see. During this period, we thought we were To The Editor: which produced The Comedy alive by giving a tax-deductDear Friends of of Errors. We also started a ible annual fund membership so much smarter than they were, and when we grew up we would do everything so much better than they did. That’s the Schoolhouse Arts Center, new teen group called Black donation today. No gift is too The year 2013 marked Box Teens and held a number small! nature of adolescence. But we’re supposed to grow out of it Schoolhouse’s 25th anniver- of fundraisers throughout the Happy holidays!

VISION, Page D sary as a community theater. year.

With heartfelt thanks, In our 25th year, we brought We are already excited The Schoolhouse Arts back some old favorites to get started in 2014 with Center Board of Directors including Hold On, Molly! by another fantastic lineup of Schoolhouse’s founder and productions and educational local playwright Hank Beebe, programs including Godspell,

by Henry Precht Music Man, and Arsenic and Fiddler on the Roof, The Old Lace and introduced Mousetrap and A Christmas BN Columnist Editor’s note: George some new plays to our theater Story, arts classes, summer including The 25th Annual camps, workshops, Black Bradt of the Bridgton Literacy Putnam County Spelling Bee, Box Teens productions and Task Force wrote to author Lois Lowry asking for a few The MOMologues 2: Off to more fundraising events!

School, and Zombie America We are also continuing words the BLT could read as by new playwright Kristen to upgrade and repair our part of the Christmas Book Watson. old schoolhouse building Drive. She sent the following, In keeping with our comwith hopes of repairing and and it was indeed read. Bradt When you read these sentences it will be, if you live mitment to provide a fun, repainting the exterior of the noted that every Stevens in Downton Abby or live by Wikipedia, “Boxing Day, the day following Christmas Day, when servants and trades- creative, educational and building, replacing the floor Brook Elementary School stumen receive gifts from their bosses or clients, known as a supportive arts environment in the theater, and upgrading dent has four books from the BLT, which makes Lowry’s “Christmas box.” It seems that the fete had its origins in where people can grow, the stage lighting.

We’d love to have you letter even more appropriate. the Roman Saturnalia when slaves and masters changed develop skills and be involved places for a day.

It is also the feast of St. Stephen, the first Christian martyr, who spoke out at excessive length against the ruling judges, was accused of blasphemy and then stoned to death. There’s a lesson there: slaves, servants or tradesmen should be careful with their words on this day or it could lead to a rocky holiday.

I have nothing to worry about, being neither employee nor tradesman nor slave and not employing or managing any of them. Still, as I have learned over the years, moderation in language, both in tone and number of words, is the safer course. That makes it hard to say something sensible about the state of our foreign relations, but I shall try.

The starting point for this review is our — as the “world’s only superpower” — relations with the runnersup or second-tier nations, called the BRICs or Brazil, Russia, India and China. Things have soured with each of them and, please note, none of them reside in the Middle East where unhappiness with the USA is a way of life.

Brazil is still smarting from the revelation that the NSA, our electronic spying agency, has been listening in on their private conversations, including those of their president, a lady just like the top person in Germany, whose cell phone we also eavesdropped on. President Obama hasn’t found the formula to assuage Latin feelings so we can count on irritation to build — especially if our arch spy Edward Snowden is granted sanctuary down there.

Irritation also affects Washington-Moscow relations LOOKING UP AT THE CAMERA — This bobcat is captured on film by a camera in a wooded section of Wildwood Road in Bridgton.

(Photo by Wilbur Kimball Jr.) BOXING, Page D

Letters Looking ahead

Small World

Boxing Day blues

A letter to children

No, my tale is not like that.

No it is not at all. For, no one can save the person with uneaten pretzel bits lodged in their eye. For, nobody can bail out the person with pretzel salt altering their optical nerves.

My fable of skewed awareness is absolutely appropriate for the Winter Solstice season.

After all, the minutes of darkness are increasing, ticking away at the hours of daylight. Then, the darkness reaches a pinnacle with the “longest night of the year.”

During this time, there is the opposition of slim rays of hope, and still brilliant blast PRETZEL, Page D For Bridgton’s children and those who love them: My fondest memories from childhood center around the magic of Christmas: the lights, the snow, the carols, the stocking filled with small treasures, and the presents under the tree. And in my childhood, many of those gifts were books. In those days, there was no television (my sister and I had some favorite radio programs!) and games consisted of Monopoly or checkers, nothing with a screen and beeping sound effects. Curling up with good books was how we spent much of our leisure time.

I am sounding like, well, exactly what I am — a nostalgic old lady. Times have changed, of course. My own grandchildren would rather curl up with an iPod Touch than anything else. But still…still, there are books.

Still there are laps, and people who read to much-loved little ones.

Kids will enter the world of fast-paced technology soon enough. They’ll have to.

But in the meantime — especially at Christmas — let’s give them that gift of quiet, of stories, of the slow turning of pages, of dreams and imagination.

Sleigh bells ring. Are you listening?

With love, Lois Lowry

Water rights

To The Editor: Clean pristine water is an invaluable resource of Maine, especially in the Lake Region. This resource belongs to all the residents of Maine.

The deep aquifer knows no boundaries imposed on the surface by man. The water extracted from a well on private property is taken from the deep pool/river of water that flows under Bridgton, Fryeburg and Denmark.

As the residents of these towns, you own the water LETTERS, Page D

Page D, The Bridgton News, December 26, 2013

Opinions

Postal Service future hangs in the balance

By Peter Bollen Guest Writer Should delivery of the public mail be profit-motivated or should the mail service continue to be a function of the government?

Does the public at large want to continue with a universal rate for their postal delivery services or leave this to private enterprise and the forces of the marketplace?

These are the questions members of Congress must contemplate as the future of the venerable post office hangs in the balance as a bill was approved (H.R. 2748), known as the Postal Reform Act of 2013. The bill was introduced by Rep. Chairman Darrell Issa (R-CA), who favors a privatization model for the USPS. Various bills have been produced in Congress that propose privatization of the Postal Service to turn its assets over to a private corporation. In the past, this sort of concept has been given scant attention as Congress has always favored the protection of a stable postage rate for all its citizens regardless of place of residence.

With a Republican majority in the House intent on “down-sizing” government, key members of Congress will be looking anew at the delivery of the mail. There are two major schools of thought regarding the delivery of

the public mail. The school favoring privatization wants to eliminate the government’s role as much as possible and hand over the lucrative portions of the service to private delivery companies. Those opposed to privatization warn against breaking up the delicate balance of a protective universal rate (which presently is among the lowest first class rate in the world) and the breaking up of profitable and unprofitable delivery services which would stick the mailing public with the tab if left unprotected when mail is moved by a profit motive.

With the assurance of the private express statutes, certain guarantees are built into the mail service, which would also fall by the wayside in mail-for-profit. At present, a number of service costs are built in with the price of a first class letter. These include change-of-address files, forwarding of all first class and priority parcels and no-charge corrections of misaddressed mail (mail competitors charge for these services). Also, mail privacy, security and protection from mail fraud are free and guaranteed by law with the support of the Postal Inspection Service.

In the past, a group of major mailers (The Mailers Council) held a two-day conference in Washington to discuss privatization.

Speaking in favor of private mail delivery was Rep. Dana Rohrabacher (R-CA), who indicated that profit motive was more important than universal service. If residents in remote areas find the mail too expensive for delivery, Rohrabacher argued, these citizens can do without the service.

In summation, the privatizers would favor affordability over service and universal entitlement to the best mail delivery possible.

Rohrabacher has long argued that free enterprise is the proper provider of all mail services, and the best determinant of prices and, therefore, the private express statutes should be dismantled. Postal advocates are quick to point out that this is tantamount to putting the government up for sale with regulation problems running amok.

We’ve already had a taste of this with the complexities and problems that the various telephone and cable companies face with lawsuits and legislation pending to protect the public’s interest on fair pricing. There is more choice than ever for these services, but have prices really gone down for the consumer, one might ask?

Interestingly, even those in the private sector haven’t been able to reach agreement on how they should split the Postal Service pie. Those

favoring a continued public role for the USPS point out that the present system is doing the job mandated by law and doing it well.

The Postal Service has traditionally been self-sufficient and not one cent of taxpayer money funds its operations.

Presently, due to an unusual pre-funding obligation the USPS is in arrears — a situation which can be resolved by eliminating the pre-funding of retirement benefits 75 years in advance which has caused the USPS major deficits in the past several years. No other agency does this type of pre-funding. Eliminating this burden would put the USPS on a sound financial basis and back in the red.

The present universal rate also protects the public from the vagaries of the marketplace such as high inflationary periods, corporate raiding and bankruptcies, which are a constant risk to the consumer in a profit-oriented marketplace.

Privatization advocates claim that first class mail can be delivered more cheaply with a lower paid workforce.

Conversely, USPS advocates claim that its stable, well screened workforce ensures sanctity of the mail, and that the familiarity to its local route customers is valuable to the communities it serves, especially the elderly who POSTAL, Page D

Letters

diminished.

Your towns need laws that restrict large, rich, powerful companies from taking water that belongs to all. The clean water of Maine belongs to you and it is only you who can protect it.

Go to the store and see how much an eight-ounce bottle of Poland Spring Maine water costs. If Nestlé has its way, don’t be too thirsty in the future when your water is sold back to you at this price.

Terence J. Harrist, M.D. Newton, Mass. and Denmark

while I could sure use some teeth, it is not teeth I am looking for. This year, I am praying that three months from CHRISTmas of 2013, Patriots will take up the sword and by nine months later, on CHRISTmas day of 2014, our Republic will be restored, and as Thomas Jefferson so aptly said, “The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants.” Our tree of liberty will be well watered. And we will once again be free of tyrants, foreign entanglements, the Federal Reserve and every department of the government that does not pass Constitutional muster.

Rev. Bob Celeste Harrison

to reach everyone to give reading a boost in Bridgton.

Everybody, have a wonderful, joyous, relaxed holiday season!

George Bradt BLT Secretary

(Continued from Page D) taken just as much as the owner of the well does. When that water is used for homes, local businesses and the overall needs of the residents, the aquifer has served the communities well. However, when a large multi-national, foreign-owned company removes billions of gallons of water for a mere pittance, it diminishes your resource and the inheritance of your descendants in the generations to come.

Were this not insidious enough, Nestlé’s CEO, Peter Brabeck-Latmanthe, said in an interview that water should be “privatized as any other commodity.” He considers the right to clean water to be an “extreme view.” (http://naturalsociety.com/ nestle-ceo-water-not=humanright-should-be-privatized).

Any company that has the view that all water should be privatized must be regarded as predatory and its expansion in this area must be stopped. If this view is realized, you may be buying back the water taken from beneath your towns from Nestlé.

Nestlé makes billions in profit that flies to its headquarters vault in Europe. The money that stays in Maine is minute when compared to the company’s profits. All the while, your resource is

All I want for CHRISTmas

To The Editor: Back in 1949, I was enjoying my sixth CHRISTmas.

As a five-year-old I thought like a child and wanted childish things, so as the song went and I sang, “All I want For CHRISTmas Is My Two Front Teeth” even though only one was missing, my childish wants included a front tooth.

“When I was a child, I spoke as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things.” 1 Corinthians 13:11 ACP/KJV Now as a man approaching my 70th CHRISTmas,

Public Notice

TOWN OF BROWNFIELD A RABIES CLINIC WILL BE HELD AT THE BROWNFIELD TOWN OFFICE, LOCATED AT 82 MAIN STREET, ON SAT., JANUARY 4, 2014 FROM 8–11 A.M. THE COST PER SHOT IS $10.

For more information, please call 207-935-2007.

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RABIES CLINIC

Literacy matters

To The Editor: The Bridgton Literacy Taskforce would like to thank these volunteers who helped hand out almost 1,300 books to the students at Stevens Brook Elementary School last week: Jenifer Damon, Diana Fallon, Joann Webb, Pat Sprackland, Annie Eineson, Ellen Tompkins, Gloria Morris, Kat Harju, Norma Vivian, Beth Cossey, Steve and Sandra Collins, Caroline Golden, Chris and Bernie Przekop, Mary Bernard, Beth Faia, Ellia Manners and Heidi Edwards.

I believe that without these community members helping and in evidence, the kids would have simply assumed that these books came from their teachers, or from the zombies.

Volunteers helped each child select the very best books. Through their work, I think it’s safe to say that the BLT has 310 new friends!

Community building is really the only way the BLT is going

Life spans

To The Editor: Could someone please tell me exactly when doctors, pharmaceutical companies, psychiatrists, medical research monopolies, and countless government agencies began to replace God (and the former natural environments in which mankind existed for millions of years) in determining life spans for specific individual species that appeared on earth?

Most of what has become debatable concerning how to fund “health care” costs is the unfortunate result of human beings’ insatiable desire to control just about every aspect of their mental and physical environments. There is currently a worldwide assumption that increasing the life span of every human being is paramount to the survival of mankind as a species. This is actually contrary to actual historical evidence or current intelligent observation. It is obvious that we are placing more demands on resources and available life supports through huge population explosions worldwide.

Lengthening life has become an obsession that has far over shadowed the pursuit of quality of life, based on common sense efforts to use what is available in the natural world to provide as comfortable a transition through difficult conditions that face us here on earth as reasonably possible.

For centuries, doctors and nurses were in attendance merely to provide simple acts of comfort, while nature took LETTERS, Page D

Public Notice

TOWN OF NAPLES PUBLIC HEARING

The Planning Board will hold a Public Hearing on January 7, 2014, at 7:00 p.m. at the Municipal Office Buildings located at 15 Village Green Lane. On the agenda: 1. A Public Hearing on an application and possible Final approval submitted by Sebago Technics, Inc., for a new Dunkin’ Donuts drive-thru located at 377 Roosevelt Trail, Map U04, Lot 3.

2. A Public Hearing on an application and possible Final approval for a minor subdivision located at 34 Wiley Road, and shown on Naples Tax Map R11, Lot 11, submitted by Carol and Dean Wiley.

3. A sketch plan submitted by John Marston for a towing operation and future discussion of property at 212 Roosevelt Trail, Map U05, Lot 21.

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Planning Front

by Anne Krieg Bridgton Director of Planning, Economic & Community Development

Planning front update

Hello to all and best wishes! As I sit here thinking about the work over the last month and for next month, I realize I have not started my personal Christmas shopping — in usual planning style, I will blitz it out this weekend after I pick up my daughter from college and put the tree up, that is. Luckily, we play by the motto that Christmas starts on Christmas, not ends on it! I even order a family New Year’s card (usually the week of Christmas) and not a holiday one; so my advice is do what you have to in order to keep the stress factor low!

December has brought some big projects to fruition. The RFP (request for proposal) is out for the Memorial School.

Please pass this information along (go to planning portion of the town’s website www.bridgtonmaine.org). I know I say this a lot, but I can’t tell you enough how important this project is to the core business district. Developing this site will assuredly serve as another anchor in the downtown and expand the business district, as well as draw further positive attention to Pondicherry Park.

We are signing a contract with the Portland multi-disciplinary firm of Milone & McBroom for the Depot Street streetscape design/engineering project. We will have a kickoff discussion in January so stay tuned and be part of the design of this street.

Did you go to the Festival of Lights? I was there with my family and we had great fun! I assembled staff and the Community Center folks to debrief this week and we came up with some ways to improve the event. If you have thoughts to share, please share them with me while it’s fresh in your mind. I have created a tickler file for next year so I don’t forget what we thought was a good idea.

I have been asked to speak at Senior College in February so I will give a lecture on the history and fields of planning and development. If you have always wondered what it is that we do and the profession, then sign up for this class!

The Community Development Block Grant applications are out. Are you in the downtown area and need to do some façade work or signage replacement? Are you part of a program or starting a program that serves persons of low to moderate income in Bridgton? Come see me or go to the website and download the application. I am having a workshop on this program for potential recipients on Tuesday, Jan. 7 at 4 p.m. at the municipal building.

The Comprehensive Plan Committee is finalizing the plan; they are now working on the land use plan. This is the most important part of the plan so stay tuned to hear when drafts are ready for public comments and forums to review the document. It is important residents read the documents to make sure we got it right.

Next month, I will be working on orientation with the Mount Washington Valley Chamber of Commerce, getting up to date on floodplain regulations, and finding out the latest trends from attending meetings of the Maine Real Estate and Development Association, the Economic Development Council of Maine and the Urban Land Institute in Boston.

It’s also budget time. I am working on possible TIF projects (tax increment financing district the town created in 2008), and the Winter Carnival is coming!

As always, please stop me, e-mail me, send me a tweet, LinkedIn with me, like me on Facebook and all the rest!

Please accept my good wishes for a great New Year and thank you for all you do to make Bridgton a great place!

There is a Santa Claus

I was listening to the radio the other day. The announcer said that a child asked if there was a Santa Claus. The person he spoke to said no.

He asked, “You mean Mom and Daddy lied?”

“Oh yes,” he was told. “You pretend to sleep Christmas Eve and you will see Mom and Dad putting presents under the tree.”

The person telling the child that is obviously one of those people who spell Christmas with an X. They have lost the true meaning of Christmas.

Santa Claus is that part of mom and dad that listens to the child ask Santa for something. It is part of mom and dad that goes out and finds that special request and brings it home. Santa is that part of mom and dad that very carefully wraps the gift with pretty paper and ties a bow on top. Santa is the one who places the little tag on the top that says, “to the one we love, from Santa.”

Christmas Eve everyone goes to bed trying to sleep.

Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus take time to place the gifts under the tree, making sure the special one from Santa is out front. Then when that call, “Santa was here,” is heard, everyone goes to the tree. Mom and dad sit on the floor or couch or chair and watch the face of the one who found that special gift.

With child-like care, the wrapping is torn off. The bow is thrown aside. Then comes that moment when the large wide eyes, the open mouth, the smile and the squeal or scream or whatever sound is made, carries all the love that God had for man since the beginning, to Santa Claus. It was what makes the past year of worry, joy, fun, heartbreak or tears worthwhile. It’s that special love that needs to be done above all the love the family knows all year.

Just so long as people keep Christ in Christmas, love in their hearts. There will always be a Santa Claus.

You who are old enough to read this on your own know that the original Christmas carried the greatest gift of all time and that gift was from a loving Father for all of us.

For those of you who are giving the gift of love, tell all that Santa is real and will always be — Santa Claus This article was passed along to The News by Gail Johnson. It was published in the Valley Times in Pittsfield (which was purchased by the Eastern Gazette around 1990) and republished in the Boothbay Register.

The Eastern Gazette gave The News permission to reprint the article.

Opinions

Tree Talk

Bird Watch

by Jean Preis

Advice from an Arborist

Large long limbs

By Robert Fogg You’ve no doubt noticed that summer is over and winter is upon us. That can be good news for skiers and snowmobilers, but it might not be such good news for your old pine trees, especially if they are close to your house.

Pine trees, in particular, tend to get brittle as they age.

Every year adds a little more length, a little more girth and a little more weight to each branch, which adds to the leveraging effect. Add a thick layer of heavy ice and snow and SNAP. Every spring, we get a handful of calls from people who are visiting their camps for the first time after a long winter, only to find a pine limb through the roof. In some cases, the damage to the roof is nothing compared to the water damage that occurred as a result of the hole. We’ve even seen cases of pine branches that have punctured through a roof into a bedroom and, in another case, a bathroom.

If you have aging pine trees in close proximity to your house or yard, it might pay you to contact a competent arborist for an evaluation. Remember the old rule: An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

Robert Fogg is general manager of Q-Team Tree Service in Naples and is a licensed arborist. He can be reached at RobertFogg@Q-Team.com or 207-693-3831.

NEED A

PROFESSIONAL SERVICE? THE BRIDGTON NEWS

BN Columnist

Winter sights

There is a catbird’s nest in our backyard, that most of the year is well-hidden in an overgrown part of the yard that we call the swamp island. In spring and summer, that area is wet and soggy, and choked with so many old rose bushes bristling with dangerous thorns that humans do not venture there. In winter, though, its protective cover of leaves is missing, the place is exposed, and we can see through the tangle of bare vegetation to the nest.

This afternoon, the sun is shining and the thermometer has soared well into the 30s. It’s time to bring the snowshoes up from their summer storage in the basement and get outdoors.

A chickadee on the seed feeder watches me as I buckle my heavy boots into the snowshoe harness. He is so small he would fit easily into the palm of my hand, and he is dressed only in feathers, but he is perfectly suited to winter. Perhaps, he wonders about what odd creatures we humans are, with our bulky clothing and complicated equipment.

Snowshoes on, I trek down the slope beside the house and out onto the backyard. Ahead of me, teensy footprints stitch a neat line across the surface of the snow before disappearing SIGHTS, Page D

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

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

ALARMS WAM-ALARM Systems Installation, Service, Monitoring Burglar-Fire-Temperature Sensors Free Security Survey 647-2323

CHIMNEY LINING The Clean Sweep LLC Chimney Cleaning Service Supaflu and Stainless Steel Chimney lining and relining Dana Richardson 935-2501

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

CLEANING SERVICES

Scott Docks Inc. Sales and Service Evergreen Cleaning Floating and stationary docks Lake Region’s eco-friendly cleaning serv.

Jason Kelman Kevin Whitney Jennie McLeod, Owner 207-647-3824 207-253-9044 First Impressions Cleaning Inc. Residential & Commercial Seasonal 647-5096

ELECTRICIANS A to Z Electric “The Boss Does The Work” David S. Gerrish, Master Electrician Residential/Commercial/Industrial 30+ yrs. exp., Naples 693-6854

Lake & Mtn. View Cleaning and Caretaking Exceptional references, 25+ yrs. exp.

D. M. Electric Inc. & Sons Julie 207-650-1101 APPLIANCE REPAIR Dennis McIver, Electrical Contractor McHatton’s Cleaning Service Residential/Commercial/Industrial Jones Appliance Service/Repair LLC Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Licensed in Maine & New Hampshire Quality service you deserve Fire, Smoke, Soot, Water Bridgton 207-647-5012 All major brands Certified Technicians jonesappliances@aol.com 595-4020 Bridgton 647-2822, 1-800-850-2822 J.P. Gallinari Electric Co. Residential - Commercial - Industrial ATTORNEYS Servicemaster Aerial - Auger - Lifting Service Prof. Carpet Cleaning – Home/Office Bridgton 647-9435 Shelley P. Carter, Attorney Fire/Smoke Damage Restoration Law Office of Shelley P. Carter, PA 1-800-244-7630 207-539-4452 McIver Electric 110 Portland St., Fryeburg, ME 04037 “Your on time every time electricians” 935-1950 www.spcarterlaw.com TLC Home Maintenance Co. 221 Portland Rd, Bridgton Professional Cleaning and 647-3664 Michael G. Friedman, Esq., PA Property Management www.mciverelectric.net 132 Main St. Housekeeping and much more P.O. Box 10, Bridgton, ME 04009 583-4314 R.W. Merrill Electrical Contractor 647-8360 24 hour Emergency Service COMPUTERS Residential & Commercial Hastings Law Office, PA Harrison 583-2986 Fax 583-4882 EEcomputer Services 376 Main Street – PO Box 290 Small business specialists Fryeburg, ME 04037 David K. Moynihan eecomputerservices.com 935-2061 www.hastings-law.com Master Electrician 603-733-6451 Licensed ME & NH Robert M. Neault & Associates Bridgton 647-8016 Ms. C’s Computer Repair Attorneys & Counselors at Law Virus and spyware removal Tuomi Electric Corner of Rte. 302 & Songo School Rd. PC repairs 207-228-5279 Chip Tuomi, Electrical Contractor P.O. Box 1575, Naples 27 Zion Hill Road, Bridgton Residential & Commercial 693-3030 Harrison 583-4728 Naples Computer Services Miklos M. Pongratz, Esq. PC repair/upgrades – on-site service 1250 Roosevelt Trail (Rte. 302) EXCAVATION Virus and spy-ware removal Raymond, ME 04071 Home and business networking K.S. Whitney Excavation 655-8760 mik@pongratzlaw.com Video security systems 71 Harrison Rd., Naples 207-693-3746 Sitework – Septic Systems Materials delivered BOOKKEEPING Kevin 207-647-3824 CONTRACTORS NE Professional Services Douglass Construction Inc. Snow’s Excavation Exceptional bookkeeping services Custom Homes/Remodeling/Drawings Complete site work 207-583-4364 30 years exp. in Lakes Region Foundations-Septic-Lots cleared http://neprofserv.com Phil Douglass, 647-3732 207-647-2697 Jeff Douglass, 595-8968 CARETAKERS Sweden Rd. Bridgton EXERCISE/FITNESS Caretake America Quality Custom Carpentry Dee’s BodyCraft Managing and Patrolling Specializing in remodeling & additions Personal Training, Aerobics, Pilates Kevin Rogers, Owner/Manager Jeff Juneau Naples Certified – Experienced Rte. 35, Naples 693-6000 207-655-5903 Bridgton 647-9599 North Country Home Watch COUNSELING “We’ll be there when you can’t” FOUNDATIONS www.nchw.us 207-713-0675 Ellia Manners, LCPC In Her Own Image/Counseling for Women Henry’s Concrete Construction CARPENTRY Call for brochure/Insurance accepted Foundations, Slabs, Floors Harrison Tel. 583-4896 www.elliamanners.com Robert E. Guy 207-647-3015 Bridgton General Carpentry – Additions GARAGE DOORS Repairs – Remodeling DANCE INSTRUCTION Naples Garage Door Co. www.bobguy@myfairpoint.net Installation & repair services Harrison 743-5120 239-4804 (cell) The Ballroom Dance - Exercise - Yoga - Aikido Free estimates Main St., Harrison, Maine Jerry’s Carpentry & Painting Naples 207-693-3480 207-583-6964 Carpenter & General Contractor Roberts Overhead Doors Log homes – decks – remodeling Commercial/residential – free estimates DENTAL SERVICES Fully insured – Free estimates Now offering Master Card & Visa 207-527-2552 Bridgton Dental Hygiene Care, PA 207-595-2311 Complete oral hygiene care – infant to senior CARPET CLEANING Most dental insurances, MaineCare HAIRDRESSERS 207-647-4125 www.BDHC.me McHatton’s Cleaning Service The Hairitage Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Jetport Denture Center One Beavercreek Farm Rd. Fire, Smoke, Soot, Water Full dentures – partial dentures (top of Packard’s Hill – Rte 302) Certified Technicians Relines – repairs Vicki Crosby Owner/Stylist Bridgton 647-2822, 1-800-850-2822 Austin Carbone, LD & Kelly Richardson, LD Tami Prescott, Nail Specialist 171 Portland Rd, Bridgton 647-8355 CARPETING 207-274-1887 Thurlow’s Carpet & Home Center Sales & Service Meadow Rd. (Sandy Creek Junction) Bridgton 647-5562, 800-310-5563 www.thurlowscarpet.com

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

HARDWARE L. M. Longley & Son Hardware/Plumbing/Heating/Metal Shops Electrical/Welding supplies/Housewares Main St., Norway, ME 743-8924

December 26, 2013, The Bridgton News, Page D

Medicare nugget

By Stan Cohen Medicare Volunteer Counselor Good news for Medicare beneficiaries. The Part B premium will not go up in 2014. It remains at $104.90 per month for those who earn less than $85,000 per year ($170,000 for a joint tax return).

For most seniors that premium is deducted from their Social Security benefit. The 1.5% increase in Social Security benefits for 2014 will be a true increase because the Part B premium is not going up.

Another “no increase” item in Medicare is the Part B annual deductible. It will stay at $147. The Part A deductible (applied to every 60-day benefit period) will increase from $1,184 to $1,216 (less than 3%).

That deductible is covered completely or partially by all Medigap plans except Medigap Plan A. The Center for Medicare

and Medicaid Services credits the Affordable Care Act for having a major impact on this cost sharing stabilization. They point to four areas that are saving Medicare billions of dollars: • New tools to increase fraud prevention and detection.

• Incentives for doctors and hospitals to provide better quality care.

• Lowered payments to hospitals with high readmission rates.

• Reduced overpayments to Medicare Advantage plan insurers.

Merry Christmas and have a healthy New Year.

Stan Cohen, a Medicare Volunteer Counselor, is available for free, oneon-one consultations at Bridgton Hospital on Tuesdays from 8:30 to 11 a.m. No appointment is necessary. Alternatively, call your Agency on Aging at 800-427-7411 for assistance.

HEATING

PAINTING CONTRACTORS

RUBBISH SERVICE

A –1 Thompson’s Services LLC Cleanings and repairs, Boilers Furnaces, Monitors, Oil tanks New installations, 24 hr burner service Licensed and insured 207-693-7011

George Jones Quality Painters Interior/Exterior – Fully Insured Free Estimates Excellent References 207-318-3245 www.georgejonespainters.com

Bridgton Trash & Rubbish Service Bridgton/Naples/Harrison/Fryeburg Weekly & 1-time pickups – Cleanouts Tel. 207-595-4606

Bass Heating Oil Burner Service Sales and Installations Waterford (207) 595-8829

Jerry’s Painting Service Quality Painting – Interior/Exterior Fully Insured – Free Estimates 207-527-2552

Webber Painting & Restoration Thurlow’s Carpet & Home Center Exterior & Interior painting Monitor Heaters Sales & Service Repairs/Installations/Modifications Meadow Rd. (Sandy Creek Junction) Fully insured – Estimates – References Bridgton 647-5562, 800-310-5563 Craig, 207-831-8354 www.thurlowscarpet.com

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

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

PEST CONTROL Protect Pest Services Service designed to need & budget Free inspections and estimates 40 yrs. experience 207-321-9733

PET GROOMING Wag On Wheels Mobile Pet Grooming 627-4896 We Come To You

PET SUPPLIES Paw Prints Health Food Store For your pet 647-9907

PLUMBING & HEATING

A Plus Plumbing & Heating Inc. Southern Maine Retirement Services Plumbing Supplies – LP Gas Medicare Supplements & Prescription Plans BBQ Gas Grill Parts & Access.

647-2029 Life and Long-Term Care Insurance Portland St., Bridgton 150 Main St., Bridgton 1-866-886-4340 Collins Plumbing & Heating Inc. Specializing in repair service in KENNELS The Lake Region 647-4436 Bridgton Veterinary Kennels Ken Karpowich Plumbing Boarding Repairs/Installation/Remodeling Route 117, Bridgton, Me. Master Plumber in ME & NH Tel. 647-8804 Over 20 years experience 207-925-1423 Wiley Road Kennels Groom & Board PROPERTY MANAGEMENT Wiley Rd, Naples Clement Bros. Lawn and Landscape 207-693-3394 Organic lawn & garden maintenance Shoreline restoration LANDSCAPING Creative stonework, property watch Cabins to Castles, Inc. Snowplowing & sanding Design/Build/Landscapes 207-693-6646 www.clementbros.com Shoreline Restoration Handy Hands Property Maintenance www.cabinstocastlesmaine.com 207-452-2997 ctoc@fairpoint.net Comprehensive custom service Caretaking – long or short term LP GAS A-Z/lot clearing to structure & grounds care 647-8291 Bridgton Bottled Gas LP Gas Cylinders/Service J Team Property Services Route 302 Bridgton Property security checks-Handyman repairs 207-647-2029 Fully insured – Painting/carpentry Fall/Spring cleanups – Lawn care Downeast Energy/Denmark Home/rental home cleaning LP Gas Bulk/Cylinders John England 207-650-9057 Box 300, Denmark Tel. 452-2151 Lawrence Construction &

MASONRY D & D Masonry Chimneys/fireplaces/walks/etc.

Fully insured Free estimates Darryl & Doug Hunt 693-5060

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

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

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

OIL DEALERS Downeast Energy/Denmark Delivery and Service Denmark, Maine Tel. 207-452- 2151

Property Management Carpentry-Remodeling-Painting Snow removal 25+ years exp.

Fully insured 207-452-9000

REAL ESTATE Chalmers Real Estate 100 Main St., Bridgton Tel. 647-3311 Lakes Region Properties “At the Lights in Naples” Waterfront, Residential Commercial & Land 207-693-7000 Oberg Agency Residential, Business, Lake Shore Property 132 Main St., Bridgton Tel. 647-5551, 888-400-9858

REFRIGERATION/A/C Tech Air HVAC/R Residential/Commercial/Industrial 207-890-3836/techair-1@hotmail.com

RUBBISH SERVICE ABC Rubbish Weekly Pick-up Container Service Tel. 743-5417

The Dump Guy Insured – Junk removal Basement and attic cleanouts 207-450-5858 www.thedumpguy.com

SELF STORAGE Bridgton Storage 409 Portland Rd 28 units & 4000’ open barn Bridgton 647-3206 JB Self Storage Rt. 5 Lovell, Maine Monthly/yearly secure storage 207-925-3045

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

SNOW REMOVAL Aquila Snowplowing - residential & commercial Bridgton – Naples – Sebago Rob 207-310-3370 Webber Snowplowing Service Residential & private roads Naples/Sebago/Bridgton/Casco/Harrison Craig (207) 831-8354

SURVEYORS Maine Survey Consultants, Inc. Land Information Services P.O. Box 485, Harrison, Maine Off: 583-6159 D. A. Maxfield Jr., P.L.S. Over 10,000 surveys on file

TAXIDERMIST Trapper’s Taxidermy Jason Pingree 112 Bush Row Rd Denmark 207-452-2091

TOWING Stuart Automotive Free Junk Car Removal 838-9569

TREE SERVICE Q-Team & Cook’s Tree Service Removal-pruning-cabling-chipping Stump grinding-bucket work-bobcat Crane-licensed & fully insured Q Team 693-3831 or Cook’s 647-4051 Toll free 207-693-3831 www.Q-Team.com Rice Tree Service – Sheldon Rice Complete tree service – free estimates Removal-prune-chipping-stump grinding Licensed and insured Utility and Landscape Arborist Waterford ME – 583-2474

VETERINARY N. D. Beury, DVM Spay/Neuter – Well-pet care North Bridgton For Appointment 583-2121 Bridgton Veterinary Hospital Small Animal Medicine & Surgery Rt. 117, Bridgton, ME 647-8804 Fryeburg Veterinary Hospital Small Animal Medicine & Surgery Route 302, Fryeburg 207-935-2244 Norway Veterinary Hospital Naples Clinic Corner Rte. 302 & Lambs Mill Rd.

By Appointment 693-3135 Rozzie May Animal Alliance Low-cost spay/neuter www.rozziemay.org - Conway, NH By appointment 603-447-1373

WELDING Iron Man Welding/Metal Sales Fabrication and repairs No job too small Construction – homeowners or business Lge. inventory steel/metal in stock/spec. order 647-8291

Classifieds

Page D, The Bridgton News, December 26, 2013

&

REAL ESTATE

Part of the Chalmers Group

100 Main Street, Bridgton, ME 04009 Phone: 207-647-3311 Fax: 207-647-3003 www.chalmers-ins.com BN 52

RED’S FIREWOOD — Cut, SOUTH CASCO — 1-bedroom split and delivered. Any amounts. apartment, fully furnished. 3 miles Call 615-6342 for details. tf35 south of Naples off Route 302. Immaculate and modern, on first floor 140+ CHANNELS @ $29.99 — attached to private home. Private DirecTV - Open seven days. Free entry and mudroom, access to installation in ME & NH. Add $5 laundry and parking garage. Nonfor NFL Sunday ticket. 207-500- smokers. Utilities included. $800 3334.

4t50x month. Call for information at 2072t52x SEASONED FIREWOOD— 655-1177. www.westernmainefirewood.com NAPLES — Long Lake winter Cut 13 months ago. Cut, split, rental. Furnished, 2-bedroom, delivered. $260 per cord. Call 583- large open concept, newly remod4113 or 595-5029.

4t51x eled mobile home located in beauSNOWMOBILE PARTS — D tiful Vacation Home Park. Ice fish, & G Snowmobilers Discount. snowmobile, located directly off New & used snowmobile parts. of Route 302, Site #4. No pets. No 9 a.m. - 8 p.m. Closed only on smoking. First, security, references Wednesdays. Call 207-583-2312. and proof of income. $950.00 plus www.

13t51x utilities, 3/4 tank of fuel. rrvacationhomepark.com 305-304tf48 BUS. OPPORTUNITY 8764 cell.

BUSINESS FOR SALE — by owner. Located in Windham. In business for over 20 years. 8930339. tf50

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 tf30 Bridg­ton, 207-647-5477.

FOR RENT

ATTENTION

NAPLES — Off Rte. 35, quiet, Classified line ads are now posted one-bedroom, 1st floor, pine panon our website at NO EXTRA eling, built-in book shelves, coinCHARGE! www.bridgton.com op laundry onsite, no smoking, no pets, 1st and one-month security HELP WANTED required, $650 month, oil heat & HANDYMAN NEEDED — for electricity included. 207-899-5052. tf35 general maintenance of small apartment complex in Bridgton. BRIDGTON — 2-bedroom Possible free apartment. E-mail apartment. Big sunny windows. name, phone number and work Clean and quiet. Laundry hookups, background to: richfmci@com- parking with nice yard. Walk to cast.net, 508-540-1125.

4t51 downtown. $650 month, security deposit, no utilities included. 625WORK WANTED 8812.

4t49x CONTRACTOR — Semi-retired, looking for plumbing and BRIDGTON — One-bedroom electric work in the local area. Call apartment. Modern kitchen, big 647-8026. tf45 sunny windows. On quiet deadend street. Walk to downtown. $550 month, no utilities included.

Security deposit. 625-8812. 4t50x

GENTLY USED — children’s books needed for Bridgton Literacy Taskforce giveaways. Drop off at 3 Pleasant Street or call Bill for free pickup 647-5209. tf21

EFFICIENCY APARTMENT — in Harrison. 1 person only. $390 per month. Includes heat/electric.

Non-smokers/no pets. References needed. Nice, quiet area. 207-4159166, leave message. tf51 COMMERCIAL OFFICE — space. 693 Main Street, Lovell.

1,000 square feet. Ample parking, utilities included. Contact Bliss & Associates. 925-1468. tf50 CASCO — 1-bedroom apartment.

Small pet welcome. Heat, electric & WiFi included. First & last month, $650 a month. Call 207627-4471.

4t51x BRIDGTON — Cozy 2-bedroom mobile home. Private lot. No pets, no smoking. Plowing included.

W/D, no utilities included. $750 month. 1st, last & security. Near Hannaford. Call 400-7211. 4t50x BRIDGTON — 16 South High Street. Non-smoking, no pets. 1 or 2 bedroom apartments, quiet, safe building. Includes heat, hot water, off-street parking. Walking distance to Main Street, town beach, church. Coin-op laundry on site. $700 to $800 month. First, last and security requested. References checked. 207-632-8508 or 6328510. tf41

CASCO — Completely furnished rooms, heat, lights & cable TV in- BUSINESS SERVICES cluded. $120 weekly. No pets. Call HEAP HAULERS — Towing tf37 service. Cash paid for junk cars. cell, 207-650-3529. tf12 BRIDGTON — 2-bedroom, 2- Call 655-5963. bath, large living area, close to AIRPORT CAR EXPRESS Food City. Heat, electric, water, – Luxury sedan or minivan W/D, plowing, trash pickup in- transportation to and from regional cluded. $960. Section 8 welcome. airports, bus and train stations. tf46 781-361-1368.

24 hr. operation with advance HARRISON — Apartment, 2- reservation. Major credit cards bedroom, 2½-baths, large rooms, accepted. Child or booster seat very private. Garage, mountain upon request. 207-893-8294. and lake views, access to lake. www.airportcarexpress.com 26t32x $950 month plus utilities with one-month security. No pets. No DEN­MARK HOUSE — smoking. References required. tf44 Painting, Inc. Inter­ior and Exterior 583-4044.

Paint­ing. Also, Paper­hang­ing. 40 BRIDGTON — 2-bedroom, 2- years of painting ex­pe­ri­ence. Call bath duplex house, short walk from for esti­mates. Call John Math­ews, tf49 Food City, W/D. $750. 781-963- 207-452-2781. tf48 1148.

Letters

(Continued from Page D) its course. There are some frequently traveled roadways in Africa in particular that have human skeletons along the way. Many of the people in primitive cultures remain well aware that they have very little control of their life spans on earth. They do what they can each day.

The primary cause of over population for mankind is abundant availability of resources. Limited availability to resources prevents too many individuals from surviving long enough to limit the lives of succeeding generations. The possibility for extinction was determined by natural disasters and adjustments in the atmosphere long before man began messing with industrialization and medical research.

I would like to thank Genevieve Bumstead for her observations in her recent letter to the editor. The possibility that we may not have what we have come to expect as necessary (and ours by right) in health care frightens and angers many people.

My own personal journey through a variety of physi-

Buying and Offering US Coins Gold & Silver Bullion

LAKE REGION SCHOOL DISTRICT 142 Main Street Conway, NH 603-447-3611 Metal Detectors

MONDAY – FRIDAY APPROX. 4.5 HOURS PER DAY

POSITION NOTICE

103 North Bridgton Road

BOKS LEAD TRAINER (RECREATION) Town of Bridgton Dept. of Recreation

2T52CD

Randy Shepherd

207-409-9451

GREEN FIREWOOD

210

$

~ A Diamond of Supports ~

TFCD38

Please visit our website at www.goodneighborsinc.org to upload an application or contact Wanda Millett, Human Resource Manager at (207) 647-8244, ex. 11. *Location: Bridgton, Naples and Cornish areas. *Compensation: hourly *This is a 501c3 nonprofit charitable organization *Principals only: Recruiters, do not contact this job poster *Do not contact job poster about other services, products or commercial interests

STATION ELEVATION 560 FT.

Date 12/16 12/17 12/18 12/19 12/20 12/21 12/22 12/23

High 21° 20° 15° 30° 32° 32° 12° 21°

207-647-8163

Will Travel

No. Bridgton, ME 04057

200.00 per cord

$

Price subject to change.

• Tree Removal • House Lot Clearing • Pruning • Brush Mowing

• We Buy Standing Timber • Crane Work • Firewood

25 Years Experience � Fully Insured

Paying TOP DOLLAR for Junk Cars

STUART SALVAGE 838-9569

Direct Support Professionals Wanted (Bridgton, Naples and Cornish)

Day Mon. Tues.

Wed. Thurs.

Fri. Sat. Sun. Mon.

Sweden Trading Post

per cord

Western Maine Timberlands Inc.

A highly-competitive health insurance plan; Dental Insurance; Vision Insurance; Life Insurance; Generous paid leave.

US • German • Japanese Buy • Sell • Trade

Green Assorted Hardwoods Loose Thrown Firewood Cut, Split and Delivered • State-Certified Let us help keep you warm.

Bridgton

— MINIMUM 2 CORDS FOR DELIVERY — Call 925-1138 or check us out on the web at www.westermainetimberlands.com

Good Neighbors offers an attractive benefits package that includes:

& MILITARY ITEMS

TFCD53

Chimney Cleaning Roof Repair Roof Raking Snowblowing & More

5T52CD

Have a High School Diploma or GED; Be at least 18 years of age; Have a valid Driver’s License.

WANTED GUNS - AMMO

207-595-8741 or 207-647-2555

Liner, Cap & Stove Installations

Successful Candidates must:

LETTERS Page D

M&J FIREWOOD

INTERESTED CANDIDATES SHOULD CONTACT BECKY CROSS AT 647-3048 X522 TO REQUEST AN APPLICATION.

3 CHASE STREET, SUITE 1 BRIDGTON, MAINE 04009

Good Neighbors Incorporated, a nonprofit organization, with an over 30-year track record of providing high quality assistance to adults with intellectual disabilities, is seeking motivated individuals to work in a challenging and rewarding environment. Candidates will be willing to support individuals, both in their homes and in the community, with a strong focus on dignity, respect, health, safety and therapeutic supports in a variety of environments and situations. Good Neighbors Incorporated prefers individuals that have previous training in the field of disability services, but experience is not necessary if the candidate displays a strong desire to learn the ethics and principals that guide the company. The abilities to make sound decisions, assist the people we support in leading a meaningful life, and self-motivation are highly desired.

cal and mental ailments since reaching “middle age” has made me all too aware of how much of not only my life, but that of my children and future generations is being dominated by the costs of health care. Even with assistance from governmentfunded programs, just existing is currently pushing me closer to the “poverty level.”

This despite the fact that I have a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education (1972), a master’s degree in teaching reading and writing (1988), and a certificate in Nurse’s Aide work (2007). I am determined to live each day as if it could be my last for many reasons, the least of which being that I hate the idea of prolonging my earthly existence at the expense of my fellow citizens or my family. I don’t intentionally abuse myself by engaging in excesses, but I am able to accept the reality of my eventual mortality without fear or regrets. No, I am not suicidal. I merely don’t see much point in hanging around to witness the rapid deterioration of values and principles I was raised to cherish and defend whenever possible.

So, whatever happens related to our impending health care

TFCD47

BUS MONITOR

EOE

The Town of Bridgton is seeking an enthusiastic, motivated, qualified individual with background knowledge of proper exercise techniques, and working with elementary students.

This is a stipend salary position. BOKS will operate three times per week before school at Bridgton’s Stevens Brook Elementary School. Position Description and Application are both available online at www.bridgtonmaine.org and also through the Town Office. Please submit application, resume, and professional references to: Recreation Director, 3 Chase St., Suite 1, Bridgton, Maine 04009 or by e-mail at rec@bridgtonmaine.org The deadline for filing for this position is Feb. 1, 2014. at noon.

PLEASE CONSIDER – donating gently used furniture, household items and more to Harvest Hills Animal Shelter. FMI, go to our website www.harvesthills.org for details or call 935-4358, ext. 21.

WANTED TO RENT — Room tf44 for community student, close to Birthwise in Bridgton. Call 419371-1874.

3t51x

TFCD

DEADLINE: OPEN UNTIL A SUITABLE CANDIDATE IS FOUND.

TOWN OF BRIDGTON

The Town of Bridgton is an equal opportunity employer.

HARRISON — $800 per month, first & last required. 3-bedrooms, 2-full baths, 2-car garage. Utilities not included. Call 655-8831 between 6-7 p.m.

3t51x BRIDGTON/DENMARK — 1bedroom, 1st floor, deeded beach, no pets/smokers (Photos Craigslist). $650 includes heat, plow, cable, Wi-Fi. 452-3006.

2t51

WANTED

TF2

CHALMERS INSURANCE

NEWER 2-BEDROOM — brick house, $875 month plus utilities, plowing, mowing & kitchen appliances included. Close to Hannaford, Renys, Bridgton Hospital.

Bright & clean, open kitchen/dinFOR SALE ing/living area, bath w/walk-in $5 FOR TATTERED – U.S. Flag shower, full basement, FHW, W/D when purchasing new U.S. Flag 3’x hookups, paved drive. No pets. See 5’ or larger. Maine Flag & Banner, pics & more info on Craig’s ListWindham, 893-0339. tf46 Maine posting #4195030561. Call tf46 452-2441.

MOVING SALE BRIDGTON — Large dining table, 12’-x-47” in NAPLES — off Route 35. 2-bedmiddle. Boat shape, custom made room apartment, 2nd floor, $900 of solid maple as a conference month includes heat, hot water, table for Mass. State House. Seats electric. No smoking, no pets. 207tf37 12 with some chairs, $500. Also 899-5052. some other quality pieces at good BRIDGTON — 1-bedroom prices. Victorian couches, chests apartment. Good location, close to and beds including a Jacobean downtown. Quiet neighborhood, hand-carved bed from Leeds castle all utilities included. $725 month. in England. Call 925-9022. 4t51x Call Victor 207-650-8071. 2t51x

WANTED

Low 7AM Precip Snow -1° 4° .23" 1.4" -16° -15° -------15° 14° .18" 1.6" 11° 17° ------15° 22° ------22° 31° -------5° 8° -------1° 4° -------

Snow on the Ground = 12 inches DECEMBER TRIVIA Christmas Day No Snow on the Ground 1990, 1993, 1999, 2005 What is an immature snowflake? = A raindrop

693-5499

TFCD

The Fair Housing Act of 1968 at 42 U.S.C. 3604(c) makes it unlawful “to make, print, or publish, or cause to be made, printed, or published any notice, statement, or advertisement, with respect to the sale, or rental of a dwelling that indicates any preference, limitation, or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.

EXCAVATING – Have hoe, will travel. Site work, foundations dug, back filling, septic systems, sand, loam, gravel. Call Brad Chute, 653-4377 or 627-4560. tf44

FOR RENT

DENMARK SELF-STORAGE 10' x 10' Unit $50.00 per month

207-452-2157

TFCD14

TF51CD

Discriminatory Advertising under the Fair Housing Act

FOR RENT

TF10CD

Classified advertising is sold in this space at the rate of $3.50 for 20 words or less and 15¢ a word over 20. All ads are payable in advance.

Repeats are charged at the same rate as new ads. Ads taken over the phone must be called in by Monday with payment arriving by Tuesday. A charge of $1.00 per week extra is made for the use of a box number if requested. A charge of $1.00 per classified is made if billing is necessary. Cards of Thanks and In Memoriams are charged at the same rate as classified ads. Poetry is charged by the inch.

Classified display is sold at $6.50 per column inch. Classified advertisers must furnish written copy.

The Bridgton News assumes no financial responsibility for typographical errors in advertisements other than to reprint that part of any advertisement in which a typographical error occurs. Advertisers will please notify the business office promptly of any errors that may occur, phone 207-647-2851.

WORK WANTED

4T49CDX

CLASSIFIED DISPLAY ADS Deadline: Friday 4:00 p.m.

CLASSIFIED LINE ADS Deadline: Monday 5:00 p.m.

Opinions

Classifieds

December 26, 2013, The Bridgton News, Page D

Boxing Day blues (Continued from Page D) and neither side seems interested in smoothing feathers. Unhappy with Russia’s anti-gay laws, Obama and co. will not grace the winter Olympics in Sochi.

Washington is also unhappy with Russia’s threatening to install missiles on their western border not far where we have put some anti-missile bases. Russia’s largess towards their ex-dependency Ukraine, saving it from bankruptcy and blocking it from signing on with the European Union in some form, also fuels Obama’s bile. Yet, the two ex-enemies, now only antagonists, are seeking to cooperate on Syria and Iran. We shall see whether either side has the sense and internal fortitude to pull back from a downward spiral.

Downward seems to be the direction of US-India relations at the moment. It started the other day when police in NYC hauled in the deputy consul general there for not paying her Indian servant enough and making a false statement about it. Handcuffed and put in a cell with drug addicts, the comely young woman was also strip-searched, she said. Long-suppressed Indian rage ensued (national elections next year) and a series of measures were inflicted on our embassy in New Delhi, starting with the removal of cement blocks designed to thwart terrorist bombers and continuing with demands that the embassy provide details about all the Indians it employs, as well as the names and salaries of teachers at the American Embassy School; that the embassy commissary stop importing liquor (now they are cutting muscle); and that diplomatic identification cards for consular staff members and their families be returned. Plus demanding an apology.

Will either side have the sense and fortitude to pull back?

Finally, China offers potentially the most serious problem. The prospering and aspiring Inner Kingdom claims jurisdiction over nearby waters and islands also claimed by South Korea and old enemy Japan, the Philippines and others. Beijing is also pushing around American news agencies as if they were local subordinates. Washington actively backs its smaller allies in the region. No one yet has found the sense and fortitude to work for a peaceful resolution.

I could go on by turning to the Middle East where Israel, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and others, maybe including Afghanistan, are unhappy but (1.) their irritation is wrongly based and we are plainly right and (2.) I recall that St. Stephen talked too long and was stoned.

Henry Precht is a retired Foreign Service Officer.

Letters

(Continued from Page D) preoccupations, I can simply say, “Bring it on,” in addition to the occasional, “I tried to tell you so.”

To those who seem to cling to the possibility of behaving like immature adolescents from cradle to grave, “have a nice trip, see you next fall.”

Cindy Alden West Fryeburg

Common ground

To The Editor: Last week, I happened upon a new book at the

Fryeburg Library which is worthy of attention for every adult of voting age across America.

“Fighting For Common Ground” (How we can fix the stalemate in Congress) by former U.S. Senator Olympia Snowe belongs in every public library, middle school libraries, and secondary school libraries ASAP. It will also be great as a tool for History teachers or classes focusing on government or public service right up into college level.

In today’s lingo, it has the “skinny” about how our governing bodies in Washington have been “going south so rapidly in recent years.” My father would have probably said, “This gal shoots straight from the hip.” She makes no excuses for her former

colleagues, but makes no derogatory personal attacks on any individuals, preferring to use factual illustrations of events (or lack of necessary actions) that are a matter of public record. She makes truly practical suggestions that could be applied by any citizen interested in participation in correcting the causes of chaos in our formerly-respected Senate and House of Representatives in Washington, D.C. The Fryeburg Library copy could be in my hands until Jan. 2, 2014, but I may return it sooner as it is an absorbing and smooth read.

Of course, if you are willing to go on with your life wondering when the travesty will turn into a remake of the Great Depression (called the Crash of ’29), feel free to

pass up the chance to read her attempt to empower us, to round us up as committed citizens willing to really work for what we want, and what we need to ensure that our democratic form of government will survive and prosper. She believes that it is possible to turn things around if more Americans know more about the basic daily ins and outs of their elected representatives, and the most effective ways for each of us to influence them to work toward more cooperative long-term solutions.

For anyone who might be considering entering public service as a career, this book could either inspire you or send you scurrying toward the nearest exit.

Cindy Alden West Fryeburg

Winter sights

892-5430

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Letters to the Editor We welcome your views!

Letters should not exceed 600 words, and will be edited for libel, proper punctuation and taste. All letters must be signed and indicate the writer’s residence. The deadline for letters is Monday at 5:00 p.m.

Letters should be addressed to: Editor, The Bridgton News, P.O. Box 244, Bridgton, Maine 04009.

E-mail submissions should be addressed to: bnews@roadrunner.com and must contain a phone number to verify authenticity.

The Bridgton News will attempt to publish letters received in a timely fashion.

it well. In fact, the Postal Service delivers more mail in one day than Federal Express does in one year and also delivers more mail in three days than UPS does in a year.

It also beats the competition in its priority mail classes.

The consumer today has many choices in various classes of mail delivery especially as high technology advances. Paying bills by phone, e-mail, fax, overnight and international services all have their costs. Competition in this area has, to date, not harmed the Postal Service, as consumers still depend on the convenience of its onestop counter services, and its neighborhood drop boxes, as well as the expanded presence of some shopping mall

kiosks.

In general, the American public appreciates the Postal Service’s protected rates, products and services. A survey commissioned by USA Today/CNN gave the Postal Service an 87% satisfaction score. Today the Postal Service delivers 40% of the world’s mail and at rates that are as cheap or cheaper than in most other countries.

According to Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT), “Despite all the rhetoric about how the Postal Service is ‘going broke,’ I was very pleased that, during the last 12 months, the USPS made a profit of $600 million picking up and delivering mail and packages to every community in America. And they did that

without receiving one dime from the taxpayers of this country. This is great news for the American people and makes me optimistic that, with modest changes, we can protect the jobs and quality services that the Postal Service is providing today.”

The challenge this Congress faces is whether the public will be better serviced by revoking the private express statutes and turning the mail into just another business, or preserving the government’s role for mail delivery that costs the same no matter where it’s going.

Peter Bollen has served as Legislative Director for the American Postal Workers Northeast Mass. Area Local.

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(Continued from Page D) rely heavily on their monthly checks and mail pickups.

If this service is privatized, how many private couriers will come to your doorstep and who will bear ultimate responsibility for your mail, address changes and privacy? The privatizers claim that ratepayers are unhappy with increases in postal rates and that private enterprise is always better and more efficient than anything the government runs. But, the Postal Service advocates can point out that the cost of first class mail has remained basically stable since 1971 counting inflation.

Moreover, the Postal Service does compete with other carriers now and does

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GLISTENING IN THE NIGHT — Ice coated tree limbs throughout the Lake Region area Sunday night. Temps warmed on Monday, but kept road crews busy with sanding.

(De Busk Photo)

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(Continued from Page D) under a small mound of snow. I continue around the yard, enjoying the simple pleasure of making a snowshoe path.

There are more tracks, larger ones that by now have been blurred by wind-blown snow. They come up from the lake, and I can see where the animal who made them walked along the edge of the ice under the overhanging bushes before coming up onto the yard. At one point, the line of tracks is interrupted, and I can see where the critter leapt, landing three times before digging down into the snow. The tracks continue, curve around a bit, and show another dug-up place.

By now, I am fairly sure the tracks were made by a fox, who was hunting mice under the snow. The tracks continue on, under some low bushes along the edge of the lake, and into the neighbor’s yard.

I continue to make my own tracks around the yard, crossing slender shadows cast by the brilliant gold sun as it sinks down behind the end of the mountain. Long streaky clouds begin to turn a beautiful rose color, tinged with gold. This is as far to the south as the sun will set, and in coming weeks we will watch it closely in the late afternoon as it inches around to the north. From the end of the swamp island, I can see the catbird’s nest, about three feet off the ground in a thicket of rose bushes. A tall cone of snow piled high on top of it makes it even more visible. It reminds me of the crossword puzzle I was doing a few days ago in which the clue was avian homes, and the answer was nests. That answer was only partly correct, though, because birds do not really live in their nests.

Nests are nurseries, used only as a place to lay eggs, incubate the eggs, and protect the newly-hatched nestlings. Once the nestlings have grown feathers and can survive out of the nest, they leave it and do not return. Some species of birds, including catbirds, will reuse a nest in subsequent years, after repairing and refurbishing it. Almost every spring, a pair of catbirds comes to our yard and uses this nest. By then, the vegetation has hidden it again, and we know the catbirds are here only because we hear and see the adults.

Parts of the natural world that are hidden from us most of the year become visible in winter. Some critter’s teensy footprints stitch a neat line across the surface of the snow. The fox, who usually slips unnoticed through the yard, leaves the story of his hunt written on the snow, and the catbird’s nest is open to view, wearing a crown of snow.

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Opinions

Page D, The Bridgton News, December 26, 2013

Perfect trees not found on farms

(Continued from Page D) it critically. His Bunyan eye detected some infinitesimal imperfections on one side, however. But we all knew that the real problem was: we hadn’t yet suffered enough.

There must be a mythical quality to the quest, some sort of Christian sacrifice required, an almost tangible experience of sufferance borne, or it couldn’t be the Perfect Tree. We kept looking.

We forded streams, we slid down hills, we fell down, we found ourselves trapped in old blackberry thickets, we fell down some more. We walked in sweeping loops for more than a mile through

foot-deep snow. First to complain was littlest sister Martha. Dad ended up carrying her on his shoulders.

Snow had worked its way up my sleeves. I was skinny and infamous for not being able to hold my body heat in with a mere six or seven layers of clothes. I shivered pitifully. Nobody cared. Bob and Dad chattered away like blue jays, pointing out this or that magnificent specimen of evergreenness, and then rejected each candidate as not quite beautiful enough.

“Remember, this is for your mother,” Dad said. “It has to be perfect.”

So, we went on. And on.

And on. Streams, hills, thick-

ets, hibernating bears. We trudged along in a hushed winter twilight, shivering. Then, Dad halted, thunderstruck. Either the day was darkening or the end was near. The rest of the party stumbled to a halt. Some of us fell into a snow bank.

Please God, let this be the one!

Perversely, despite incipient frostbite, my conservationist instincts kicked in.

“But Dad, that one’s 40 freakin’ feet tall!” I complained.

“You aren’t going to cut down the whole —“ Dad raised a gloved hand.

Yes, he was going to cut down the whole — as long as his impeccable standards

could be met. That was the point of the whole expedition, maybe even of life itself.

And, like Ahab at last sighting the white whale, he had that gleam in his eye. “Ah, it’s probably only 30 feet or so,” he rationalized. “But just look at that top section!

Perfect! Just look at it, kids!”

“I would,” Kathy complained, “but it’s too darn dark to see it. Cut the stupid thing down and let’s go home.” And then, finally realizing the folly of fault finding at that point in the ordeal, we three hangers-on were overcome by the saplust. “Chop it down, Dad! It’s perfect! Chop it! Chop it down! Chop it!”

Half hour later, as Bob and Dad lashed the Perfect Tree to the top of the car, the rest of us crowded around the heater like acolytes around a prophet. The afternoon’s experience began to take on a more golden glow. And at home, Mom had cocoa ready for us, and oatmeal cookies.

We dragged the tree in by the back door and stood it in the hallway. Snow and ice still glittered from some of the needly branches, which popped and creaked stiffly.

But the treetop was indeed graceful and shapely and the spruce sublimated a couple gallons of sap a minute to the warm air — oh, that scent was heavenly! Regarding the

tapering branches from every perspective, Mother, who loved all things Christmas-y (as long as those things didn’t involve her going out into the cold), fairly danced around the aromatic beauty. Meanwhile, Dad grinned and regarded Mom from every perspective.

My mother turned and blazed a smile at the Old Woodsman.

“Oh, McGee,” she enthused, “you’ve done it again. It’s the Perfect Tree!”

And so it was.

Adapted from Mike’s manuscript of Fifties stories, Pat Boone and Hayley Mills Dance the Polka at the StarLite Drive-In.

(Continued from Page D) of optimism.

Those streams of hope arrive as glimpses of lightheartedness, or moments of laughter amid any troubles.

Even for those of us who embrace a positive Pollyanna attitude, the symbolism of Winter Solstice can call our most rosy mottos into question. Likewise, can a series of expensive obstacles around the holidays.

So, there I was, parked inside my trustworthy Toyota that had just received a new radiator for Christmas. So, there I was, blinking my eyes rapidly in an attempt to get rid of crumbs and specks of salt.

Not quite the apparitions of sugar plum fairies I had hoped for!

As the processed pretzel crumbs took hold of my retina, recent happenings in my life become clear to me.

My daughter is healthy.

I have had the opportunity to spend my money locally.

One evening, I got to drive The Bridgton News van.

My “ride” that gets me to work and gives me the freedom to go from one place to another — well, she has a brand spanking new radiator.

These details are only half the truth. What really happened seemed like a stroke of bad luck during this month that ends the year. My car was towed while I was in Bridgton, which left me momentarily stranded with my daughter; my Monitor heater was not functioning correctly

for almost three weeks; my woodpile was exhausted; and my radiator cracked on the afternoon of my daughter’s holiday choral concert.

See how two opposing views can both contain the truth.

The radiator was a really good Christmas gift — one I might not have bought if my hand had not been forced.

Today, I had the gift of energy. I noticed that whenever I stayed in the present moment incredible things happened around me, even if it was as simple as getting a green light instead of red while driving, or crossing the paths of people I had not seen for a while and getting engrossed in a conversation that ended with ‘Merry

Christmas.”

I was sitting in my car, traveling somewhere I wanted to go, and listening to music — in particular a song by Van Morrison.

“Whenever God shines his light on me Opens up my eyes so I can see When I look up in the darkest night I know everything’s going to be alright” — Van Morrison At that moment, my eyes came across a ripple of sunrays shimmering on the wintered landscape.

In ending, I’d like to express this. Merry Christmas to all no matter what your faith, your traditions, or your perceptions.

Perception is just a pretzel

Tragic vision for America today

SURPRISE EARLY CHRISTMAS GIFT — Conner Allen of Naples was the lucky winner of the McDonald’s One Hot Holiday instant win game, receiving a new Xbox One and Forza Motorsport 5 game, worth $560. “We had gone to McDonald’s for dinner and as we sat down to eat, my son pulled off the instant win tab on his burger and said, ‘Mom, I think we won an Xbox!’ I thought he might have read it wrong so I took the tab and sure enough it said winner of one Xbox One and Forza 5 game! I still could not believe it! I passed the tab to my mother and she said, ‘Yes, you won!’ So, we went online, typed in the code it gave on the tab and it said we won! They asked for a photo of the winners and then sent me an e-mail to confirm our win and to congratulate us! The odds (of winning) are 1 in 10,001! We still can’t believe it!” said Connor’s mother, Nicole Corcoran-Allen.

(Continued from Page D) by 25 or so after we’ve been humbled by our own mistakes, the ones we made all by ourselves — the ones that cannot be blamed on anyone else.

Ideally, we’d emerge as young adults who retain adolescent idealism and energy that is tempered by gratitude and humility. Only then would we be ready do the work necessary to — not just preserve our inheritance, but build upon it — add to it — make America even more secure for our posterity. If we never progress beyond adolescence, however, we won’t be equipped to do that, nor will be inclined. Instead, we’ll

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spend our lives finding fault with our ancestors, endlessly pointing out where they fell short of perfection.

Look at slavery!” boomers shout, seemingly unaware that every other civilization in history, including Africans, owned slaves until European and American Christians led the movement to outlaw it.

“Look at what America did to Indians!” they shout, as if the way European Americans fought Indians was any worse than how Indians fought each other before Europeans got here. We didn’t eat them, torture them or sacrifice them to our gods the way many Indians did each other. Perpetuallyadolescent Americans twice elected a guy who went overseas ashamed of his country, saying: “The United States is still working through some of our own darker periods in our history… Our country still struggles with the legacies of slavery and segregation,

the past treatment of Native Americans.”

Then, adolescent American baby boomers had children of their own — fewer than our parents did though — about half as many. And we didn’t do a good job raising them either because adolescents don’t make good parents — especially when their own children reach adolescence. Even while they disdain grown-ups, teenagers crave adult role models, especially the male variety, and couldn’t find many. In high school and college, baby-boomer offspring were taught ridiculous notions like: there were no differences between males and females — that it was all a social construct foisted upon society by the white male patriarchy for its own purposes. They were taught that the nuclear family is a scheme to perpetuate white male privilege and oppress others.

They were taught the

notion that no consensual sexual practice should ever be called wrong. That notion is being codified on campuses, in some cities, in some states, and being proposed nationally. Expression of traditional Judeo-Christian beliefs regarding sexuality are virtually outlawed. When Duck Dynasty patriarch Phil Robertson dared utter them last week, they were called “vile” and “lies.”

The president who epitomizes adolescent narcissism has nearly doubled our national debt, encourages the Federal Reserve to print trillions more dollars with nothing to back them up, violates constitutional limits on presidential power almost weekly, and is destroying the best health care system in the world — while we all stand by meekly and watch him do it.

Tom McLaughlin of Lovell is a retired middle school U.S. History teacher.