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Friday, March 13, 2026 Volume 21 • Issue No. 11
Wells Man Wins Caterpillar Display Honors Retired Global Operator Challenge Finals Sergeant Kyle Gavin LAS VEGAS On Tuesday, March 3, in Las Vegas, Brian Hayden from Wells won the Caterpillar Global Operator Challenge Finals, earning top honors among 10 competitors selected from thousands worldwide. The finals, the highest level of the competition, tested precision, safety, efficiency, and technical expertise across multiple pieces of Cat equipment in a series of demanding challenges. “The Global Operator Challenge is a tribute to the highly skilled professionals who build and maintain our world’s infrastructure,” said Jason Hurdis, global industry solutions manager for Caterpillar. “As the industry continues to face labor shortages and rapid technological change, this competition highlights the critical role of machine operators and the specialized, hands-on skills required for a successful career in the trades.” Held alongside CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026, the Global Operator Challenge Finals celebrated the best in heavy equipment operation. As the champion, Hayden will receive either a $10,000 cash prize or an equal-value trip for two. For more information contact Lisa Miller, Caterpillar Inc. Media Relations, at 309-494-4566.
Maine Maple Sunday Weekend Celebrates State’s Syrup Industry STATEWIDE M a i ne M aple Su nd ay Weekend, March 21–22 this year, is a long-standing tradition in which Maine’s maple producers open their doors for a weekend of educational demonstrations, tours, family activities, and samplings of syrup and other maple products. “Maine Maple Sunday Weekend is an opportunity for
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Arts & Entertainment 13-17 Calendar 20,23,26 Classifieds 27-28 Dining 18-19 Finance & Career 29 Health & Fitness 24-25 Home & Business 20-23
us all to celebrate the worldclass products—and people— that make Maine unique,” said Governor Janet Mills, who is known to tour sugar shacks, maple farms, and maple-centered festivities throughout the state. “Our iconic maple syrup industry supports thousands of jobs, strengthens our economy, and sets us apart nationwide.” “One of the benefits of maple syrup in Maine is that we have a diverse climate—colder in the north and warming up in the south—along with mineral-enriched soils,” said former Maple Producers Association President (MMPA) Scott Dunn. “This leads to unique syrup flavors, depending on the sugarbush you visit.” The weekend typically attracts thousands of visitors to sugar shacks across the state. The MMPA, which represents more than 250 of Maine’s 450 licensed maple syrup producers, said that in previous years, more than 100 sugarhouses have participated, from Aroostook to York County. According to the MMPA, the maple syrup industry generates more than $27 million
Library News 8-11 Obituaries 11 People & Business 12,26 Pets 5 Puzzles 27 Sports & Outdoors 29-30 And More!
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for the Maine economy and supports more than 560 jobs, which generate more than $17.3 million in wages. Annually, the state produces more than 575,000 gallons of syrup. Most sugarhouses offer syrup samples and demonstrations on how pure Maine maple syrup is made. Many farms also provide guided sugarbush tours, games, activities, and treats for visitors of all ages. Local maple producers include Crooked Brook Farm, Wells (207-432-1421); Douston Maple & Honey, Arundel (207284-5562); and Gile’s Family Farm, Alfred (207-324-2944). Participants are advised to contact the producers directly to see which ones are participating in the weekend.
Health & Fitness
A section concerning your health.
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YORK The York Community for Veteran Affairs has established a temporary exhibit, a “Wall of Honor,” at York Public Library. For the remainder of March, the display will honor retired Sergeant Kyle Gavin, U.S. Army, a York native and Purple Heart recipient who passed away in 2016 at the age of 29. The exhibit is located outside the children’s room in the lower-level lobby. A private ceremony was recently held to recognize Gavin, who served in the U.S. Army from 2005 to 2013, completing tours in both Iraq and Afghanistan. In Iraq, he served with the 172nd Mountain Division as a combat engineer. In Afghanistan, he served with the 541st Engineer Company, where he was awarded the Purple Heart. Throughout both campaigns, Gavin received numerous commendations in recognition of his dedication, courage, and service to his country. For more information and a complete list of participating maple producers, visit the Maine Maple Producers Association website at www.mainemapleproducers.com and the Southern Maine Maple Sugarmakers website at www.smmsa.org.
Gavin’s distinguished service was brought to the committee’s attention by his family, who submitted a letter after learning that York is recognized as a Purple Heart Town. At a monthly meeting, it was determined that Alan Potvin (CVA) would lead the effort to honor Gavin. Having previously known the family, Potvin worked closely with them to ensure the display appropriately reflected Gavin’s service and sacrifice. Together, they selected meaningful items to be included in the tribute. A small permanent tribute to veterans is also permanently on display in the library’s upper level. The committee hopes this display reflects the community’s deep gratitude and appreciation for all veterans of the Town of York. The public is welcome to view the Wall of Honor during regular library hours. Potvin and his team welcome conversations with families who may wish to honor a York native service member in the future at the library. York Public Library is located at 15 Long Sands Rd., York. For more information, email apotvin@yorkmaine.org.
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