Get ready for an unforgettable experience at Rick’s Run 5K Run/Walk. This is not just a race, it is a chance to celebrate life, support an incredible cause, and have a blast doing so.
The run takes place Friday, May 22 at 6:30 p.m. at Spring Hill, 117 Pond Rd., South Berwick South Berwick. Rick’s Run is an annual event that brings the community together for a funfilled evening. This year’s Rick’s Run is presented by Village Veterinary Clinic, with 100% of the race proceeds going towards Veterans Forward.
The 5k was created in memory of Richard A. Roy. Rick was a Vietnam Veteran who suffered from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and lived with it day in and day out, until he passed. He served this country and all who knew and loved him saw the emotional, hidden wounds of that sacrifice. 100% of the funds raised go to “Veter-
ans Forward,” formally known as “Veterans Count,” a program dedicated to helping Maine veterans. The 5K is more than just a race, rather it is a celebration of life, an homage to Rick, and a way to support the nation’s heroes. Runners and walkers of all ages and abilities are welcome.
Whether a seasoned marathoner, a fitness newbie, or one who just wants to enjoy a fun evening with family and friends, Rick’s Run is the place to be!
Included in registration are: a personalized bib, a commemorative T-shirt and medal (shirts available on a first come,
first served basis), and entry to the post-race party, which will feature food from Weathervane Restaurant and Kona Ice Cream. This year, all registrations are for the race only. Participants who wish to stay for the dinner afterward can purchase a ticket during registration. Teams are eligible to compete for the first annual Rick’s Run Team Trophy, with a minimum of four participants per team; the four fastest times on each team will be counted. Children 12 and under can race for free with a paying adult. Those who want a t-shirt or plan to attend the dinner can add those options when registering.
For more information and to register, visit www.forward motionevents.com/ricksrun.
Celebrate Baby Wildlife at the Wild Baby Birthday Bash!
CAPE NEDDICK -
The Center for Wildlife is inviting the public to its annual Wild Baby Birthday Bash, a family-friendly event celebrating the arrival of baby wildlife patients and the birthdays of the Center’s 26 ambassador animals.
The event takes place Saturday, May 16, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Center for Wildlife campus, 375 Mountain Rd., Cape Neddick. Visitors of all ages will have the chance to connect with wildlife during one of the busiest and most important times of the year in the Center’s Wildlife Medical Clinic.
Guests can explore the campus while participating in a variety of interactive and educational activities. Throughout the day, visitors can create birthday cards for ambassador animals, design enrichment activities, attend ambassador meet-andgreets, and engage in wildlife intake simulations that offer a hands-on look at how injured and orphaned animals are admitted and cared for. Attendees will also be able to observe live baby animal feeding demonstrations and learn more about rehabilitating young wildlife.
Guests can also partici -
pate by bringing a “gift” for the Center’s patients and ambassador animals. Items can be selected from the Clinic Wishlist or Standard Wishlist on the Center’s website and brought to the event. Each donated item earns a raffle ticket, and additional tickets will be available for purchase. Contributions directly support the care of wildlife during the busy spring and summer seasons.
“Baby season is one of the most demanding times in wildlife rehabilitation, but also one
Invasive Plant Workshop Features Local Experts
WELLS -
The Wells Conservation Commission will host a free workshop on identifying and managing invasive plants on Thursday, May 21, at 6 p.m. at the Wells Public Library, 1434 Post Rd.
The session will feature a panel of local specialists who actively work on invasive plant management in the region, including the Wells Reserve at Laudholm, Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge, and Ogunquit’s Marginal Way.
Panelists include Joan Griswold, chair of Ogunquit’s Marginal Way Committee; Vanessa Beaulieu, natural resource
specialist at the Wells National Estuarine Research Reserve; Liz McGranaghan, forest ecologist at Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge; and Shawn Jalbert, a consultant and native plant specialist with Native Haunts in Alfred.
Discussion topics will cover how to identify invasive plant species, the impacts of infestations, and strategies for removal and replacement with native plants. The workshop is intended for homeowners, mu-
nicipal officials, landscapers, and builders.
The event aims to help the community better understand and address invasive species while promoting thoughtful stewardship of local land, agriculture, and ecosystems.
The event is free, and registration is not required to attend. For more information, visit www. wellslibrary.org/online-calendar.
Image to the left: Volunteers Nancy, Richard, Jamie, and Helen, with a load of invasive plants that they removed from the trails of Wells Reserve. Photo from www.wellsreserve.org/ blog/pulling-pile-invasive-plants.
~ News ~
Community Celebration in Cape Porpoise Square
CAPE PORPOISE -
Residents and visitors are invited to gather in the heart of Cape Porpoise for an early evening celebrating community, connection, and the small businesses that help define one of Maine’s most picturesque coastal villages.
The event will take place on Saturday, May 23 from 4 to 8 p.m. at Cape Porpoise Square in Kennebunkport and will feature
local food, art, shopping, and live music throughout the village. Attendees are encouraged to stroll the square, meet local business owners, and explore the unique character of Cape Porpoise.
Several area establishments will participate in the evening’s festivities: Atlantic Hall book sale at Cape Porpoise Library; Bradbury Brothers Market will remain open and offer Cape Porpoise merchandise and local
favorites; Caring Community Cuisine will open its café and serve lobster rolls, fries and beverages; Compliments Gallery will celebrate the opening of its new location with snacks and gallery viewing opportunities; Church on the Cape will host Three Seas Fish & Lobster serving fresh oysters, while the Church Cargo Shop will be open for shopping and browsing; The Wright Gallery will welcome guests with refreshments and snacks.
Schlegel Realty will provide restroom access and parking availability for attendees and will host live music on the patio from 4 to 6 p.m. featuring The Dock Squares, a Kennebunkport-based band.
The event was coordinated by Karen Schlegel of Schlegel Realty and Selena Roy of Caring Community Cuisine.
“This event is designed not only to showcase local businesses, but also to celebrate the spirit of Cape Porpoise itself— a village known for its working
Poppy Drive Collection Locations
BERWICKAmerican Legion Auxiliary Charles S. Hatch Unit 79 will distribute red poppies for donations on National Poppy Day, which takes place Friday, May 22 and Saturday, May 23.
Locations include Mainely Local Yolks (43 ME-236, Berwick, 207-715-0320); Kennebunk Savings Bank (49 Sanford Rd., Wells, 142 Main St., Ogunquit, 104 Main St., Kennebunk); and
the Berwick Post Office (6 Sullivan St., Berwick, 207-715-6001) during business hours.
Wearing the poppy on National Poppy Day and throughout Memorial Day weekend is one small way to honor and remember our fallen warriors who served the nation and made the ultimate sacrifice for the country’s freedom. Never forget. For more information, call 603-988-2290.
Smoke Off Honors Local Veterans
WELLS -
The Wells Veterans Committee invites local veterans and active-duty service members to a Memorial Day Smoke Off on Sunday, May 24, at the Wells
waterfront, artistic energy and close-knit sense of community,” said organizer Roy Smoot. For more information, call Kennebunkport Town Office at 207-967-1604.
& Ogunquit Center, 300 Post Rd., Wells. The event, hosted by Anchor Real Estate, opens at 11:30 a.m., with lunch served at noon. Veterans and active-duty personnel attend free of charge and may bring one guest.
Anchor Real Estate will serve a smoked lunch with all the fixings, followed by coffee and desserts. Attendees will also have the opportunity to vote for the best smoked meat, with a prize awarded to the top smoker. The event is organized by Anchor Giveback and local participants to recognize and thank those who have served. Space is limited.
RSVP is required by calling or texting 207-361-5007.
~ News ~
Summer Program Focuses on Nature, Outdoor Learning
CAPE NEDDICK -
Looking for something fun to do this summer? Area kids ages 4 to 11 are invited to a hands-on nature experience at the HiltonWinn Farm in Cape Neddick.
For more than 24 years, Hilton-Winn Farm has been running environmental education programs that celebrate its participants’ individual strengths and differences. The farm offers a natural classroom setting, with 48 acres of fields and forest surrounded by 300 acres of conservation land. Its mission? “To provide a country farm experience that enriches the hearts, minds, and spirits of children.”
Participants can enjoy a variety of activities, including exploring fields and forests, hiking nature trails, gardening, identifying native plants and wildlife, learning about farm animals, preparing communal farm-to-table lunches, playing outdoor games, and participating in nature-based crafts.
The goal of the Summer Fun programs is to use the natural surroundings at Hilton-Winn Farm to emphasize the importance of nature and the environment. The Youth Enrichment Center encourages participants to spend time outdoors through activities that promote creativity, teamwork and enjoyment. As the saying goes, “Unplug at Hilton-Winn Farm and connect to nature!”
The program runs four sessions, Monday through Thursday in July: July 6–9, 13–16, 20–23 and 27–30. The cost is $375 per session. Families may register for one session or all four. Hours are 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Staff includes certified teachers and trained volunteers.
New this year, “AdventureExploration Week” for ages 12 to 14 will be held July 27–30. Activities include service projects, team-building games, creative building projects, trail exploration, outdoor games, nature crafts and animal care.
For more information and to register, visit www.hilton-winnfarm.org or the Hilton-Winn Farm Facebook page.
Applications may also be mailed to Summer Fun at the Farm, Youth Enrichment Center, Hilton-Winn Farm, 189 Ogunquit Road, Cape Neddick, ME 03902. For questions, call 207-361-1385 or email nbreen@hilton-winnfarm.org.
The organization is a 501(c) (3) nonprofit corporation.
York Memorial Day
Parade and Ceremony
Remembering the Sacrifice some have made for our Freedoms
Monday, May 25, 2026
Parade starts 10:00 AM at St. Christoper’s Church and ends at First Parish Church with Closing Ceremony at the Town Hall Event Area
Featuring Veteran Wreath Laying, Honor Guard, Marching Bands, Floats, Community Service Organizations, First Responder Units, Antique Cars!
Attention: Veterans and Family
For non-marching Veterans wishing to be in the parade, trolley seats are available – Loading will be at St. Christoper’s Church at 9:30 AM.
Celebrate Fish and Rivers at Rogers Pond on May 23
KENNEBUNKThe public is invited to celebrate fish and rivers at Rogers Pond in Kennebunk on Saturday, May 23, from 1 to 4 p.m. The event coincides with World Fish Migration Day, a global celebration held every two years to raise awareness about the importance of migratory fish and free-flowing rivers.
This year’s theme, “We Are River People,” highlights the connection that all people have with rivers, whether through fishing, kayaking, gathering food, or simply growing up near a free-flowing river.
A variety of local organizations will offer exhibits and activities for all ages, including fly-tying and casting demonstrations, lessons, crafts, and information tables. Scientists, including Dr. Karen Wilson of the University of Southern Maine, will be on hand to answer questions about sea-run fish. Visitors may also see alewives and shad on their spring migration in the nearby Mousam River.
World Fish Migration Day seeks to improve public understanding of the importance of migratory fish and encourage action to protect rivers. Coordinated internationally by thousands of organizations, the event has reached more than 200 million people globally, helped restore or protect over 2,500 ki-
lometers of river, and included hundreds of river opening events in over 100 countries.
The local celebration is sponsored by Eldridge Brothers Fly Shop, the Kennebunk Conservation Commission, Kennebunk Land Trust, the Kennebunk River Restoration Committee, the Maine Coast Heritage Trust, Maine Rivers, the Mousam and Kennebunk Rivers Alliance, the Planeteers of Southern Maine, the Sebago Chapter of Trout Unlimited, and York County Audubon. Rogers Pond is located beside the Mousam River off Water Street in Kennebunk. Parking is available at Rogers Pond and at the Kennebunk Sewer District offices across Water Street. In case of rain, the event will be held Sunday, May 24. Admission is free. For more information, visit www.worldfishmigrationday. com.
~ Pets ~
Animal Welfare Society Safe Haven Humane Society
WELLS
Safe Haven’s annual Kitten Shower takes place Sunday, May 17 from 1 to 3:30 p.m. at 1784 Post Road. This shower is not an adoption event, but rather a chance for the public to catch a sneak peek at some of the kittens that will soon be available for adoption. There will also be a chance to meet some foster parents and Safe Haven’s rescue team, and there will be face painting and cupcakes for the kids. Look for the cat dancing waving balloons on Post Road.
Safe Haven kindly asks those attending to bring supplies to help care for the more than 100 kittens expected this spring and summer. Cash donations are also gratefully accepted to help cover the cost of vet bills, food, litter, and other essential supplies.
This week’s featured kitties are Tic Tac and Skittles.
Safe Haven Humane Society 1420 & 1784 Post Road PO Box 91, Wells, ME 04090 (207) 646-1611 / 216-9169 info@safehavenhumanesociety.org www.safehavenhumanesociety.org
YORK -
At just one year old, they have outgrown the tiny kitten stage of leaping into open refrigerators or clawing at pant legs during mealtime. While still playful, they are calmer and less mischievous than younger kittens that can scale drapes in seconds.
Tic Tac and Skittles arrived at Safe Haven in October after an elderly man who had found them as strays could no longer care for them. The pair is a lovely brother-and-sister duo, with similar appearances featuring striking tiger stripes and white markings.
The duo are often described as “purring factories,” producing louder and happier purrs than the average cat. Tic Tac is very playful, while Skittles enjoys playing once a level of trust has been established.
Unlike many cats, Tic Tac and Skittles adore belly rubs. While most cats rarely show their bellies long enough for a gentle rub or massage, these two are experts at enjoying every moment of it.
Safe Haven’s shop at 1784 Post Road is open seven days a week from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Donations are accepted every Satur-
Caleb’s Opus Rescue
Sometimes in rescue, there are moments that linger long after transports are unloaded, paperwork is signed, and the excitement of adoption day settles into everyday life.
One of the harshest realities Caleb’s Opus faces is knowing that love alone does not always make two dogs compatible. Even when families provide careful management, patience, supervision, and time, and hope for a successful match, it can become clear that the kindest and safest choice is to step back and start over.
That is the chapter Piper has unexpectedly entered at just 7 months old and 35 pounds. She was adopted in December by a family that genuinely cared for her. This was not a case of a casual surrender or lack of effort. Over time, tension between Piper and the family’s resident female dog escalated into altercations that could no longer be safely managed. Heartbroken, the family made the difficult decision to return Piper to Caleb’s Opus, giving her another opportunity to find the right fit.
While returns are never easy—for the family, the rescue organization, or, most importantly, the dog—they can provide a clearer understanding of a dog’s true personality and needs. What Piper’s current foster has discovered is something incredibly endearing.
Piper is, in many ways, the
day from noon to 3 p.m.
With college-age volunteers graduating and leaving for home, donation handling will fall to the current staff, most of whom are senior women. As a result, furniture donations are limited to small, light items that can be carried by one or two people. Clothing donations should not be placed in large trash bags, as they cannot be carried up three flights of stairs to the pricing room; smaller, lighter bags are preferred.
Safe Haven is seeking additional volunteers with strength to assist on Saturdays from noon to 3 p.m., helping receive donations and move them to the third floor. Interested individuals may contact the shelter at 207-229-8314. Thank you!
definition of a quiet companion. Not demanding or chaotic, she does not need constant activity or entertainment. Instead, she simply wants to be close to her people. She is happiest curled up beside someone on the couch, gently resting her head or paw against them, content just being near the ones she trusts. Her foster described her as one of the most mellow dogs they have ever housed.
Piper’s morning routine has become predictable in the sweetest way. She goes outside quickly to use the bathroom, returns for breakfast, takes another quick potty trip, and then settles on the couch for her beloved morning nap. Once in place, Piper can happily snooze for hours, as if there is nowhere else in the world she would rather be.
Piper also has a wonderful appetite and enjoys nearly every meal offered to her—including carrots, which she happily chews
as a snack. Like many dogs experiencing stress and transition, she had some mild digestive upset during a food change, but with a slower introduction and patience, she has already bounced back beautifully.
One thing Piper’s foster learned quickly is that she enjoys walks, but in moderation. After two separate 40-minute walks in a single day, she was utterly exhausted and spent hours resting on the couch afterward. Even a single hour-long walk left her ready for another extended nap. Piper prefers a calm day helping around the house, quietly following from room to room, and then settling nearby for another nap.
In a world where many dogs are described as “high energy” or “always on the go,” Piper is a breath of fresh air. She is calm, affectionate, quiet, and easy to have around—the kind of dog whose presence lowers the volume in a room rather than raising it. Perhaps most importantly, Piper serves as a reminder that a returned adoption is not a failure. Sometimes it is simply part of the journey toward finding the truly right home.
Caleb’s Opus believe’s Piper’s ideal home is out there—a peaceful environment where she can relax fully, feel secure, and finally know she does not have to start over again.
KENNEBUNKHi there! I’m Nitro, and I’ve got my nose set on finding a home of my own. If you’re looking for a dog who’s equal parts adventure buddy, goofy best friend, and loyal companion, I think I might be your guy. I’ve got a big hound personality: plenty of energy and a serious love for exploring the world around me. Whether we’re heading out for an adventure, going for a long walk, or just hanging out together after a day of fun, I’m happiest when I’m with my people. So, for this week’s Pet of the Week, follow the trail to Nitro!
I like to stay active and see what’s around the next corner. Walks? Love them. Sniffing every interesting thing that I can find? Absolutely. I’ve got that classic coonhound curiosity, and I’m always ready to explore, especially outside with my humans. If you’re someone who enjoys fresh air and a dog that’s excited to join you, I’m already packing my bags!
Life with me is never boring. I’ve got a playful, goofy side that tends to make people laugh, and I bring a lot of personality wherever I go. One minute I’m focused on following an interesting scent, the next I’m leaning in for attention or looking for the next game to play. I’m energetic, fun-loving, and always ready to make the most out of the day. If you follow the trail to Nitro, you’ll follow the trail to fun!
I’m looking for a home that will embrace both my adventurous side and my sweet, loyal personality. I’d love people who enjoy staying active, spending
time outdoors, and including me in their daily life.
At the end of the day, what I really want is connection. A family to stick by, adventures to share, and a place where I can finally settle in and belong. Maybe that family could be you!
Free Rabies Vaccinations, Microchipping
The Animal Welfare Society’s Community Veterinary Clinic will host a free rabies vaccination and microchipping clinic on Saturday, May 16, from 9 a.m. to noon at Saint Martha’s Church, 30 Portland Rd., Kennebunk.
The clinic will operate as a drive-thru on a first-come, firstserved basis, and no appointment is required. Pet owners are encouraged to RSVP ahead of time so organizers can plan adequate supplies of vaccines and microchips. However, selecting an arrival window during registration does not guarantee service at that
See AWS on page 23...
Animal Welfare Society PO Box 43 / 46 Holland Road West Kennebunk, ME 04094 (207) 985-3244 info@animalwelfaresociety.org www.animalwelfaresociety.org
Sunday,
May 17
1:00-3:30 p.m. 1784 Post Road, Wells
bills!
(canned)
Upholstered Furniture Shopping Tips: Seven Questions to Ask
NATIONWIDE
-
Shopping for new upholstered furniture requires careful planning. Whether furnishing a new home, updating a room, or replacing a single item, buyers should consider several factors before making a purchase.
1. Will it fit?
Measure the length and width of the room, including windows, alcoves, and doorways. Create a floor plan on paper to scale, and sketch the dimensions of furniture under consideration alongside items the homeowner plans to keep. For a hands-on approach, mark spaces for each piece on the floor with painter’s tape to avoid damaging the surface. Many interior design apps offer a digital alternative, and some retailers provide online tools that allow buyers to visualize how a new item will look in their space.
2. What’s the preferred style?
Magazines and design look-books, along with websites such as Pinterest and Houzz, are helpful tools for defining a homeowner’s style. Visiting local stores to see a wide array of options in person can provide additional insight. Many furniture retailers also offer design consultations, either virtually or in-home, which buyers can take advantage of when making decisions.
3. Will it clean easily and wear well?
Ask sales staff how the fabric will age and how to maintain it. Important considerations include stain resistance and the potential for color fading from sunlight. Many fabrics undergo a “rub test” to measure durability. For
heavily trafficked areas, such as living and family rooms, a fabric should withstand at least 15,000 rubs. Medium-duty fabrics, rated from 9,000 to 15,000 rubs, may be sufficient for less frequently used spaces. Some fabrics are specifically designed to be family- and pet-friendly. Requesting a sample swatch and testing it with spills such as coffee or wine can reveal the fabric’s true performance. Many performance fabrics are surprisingly strong and resistant to stains.
4. Is it worth investing in higher-quality furniture?
High-quality, well-constructed upholstered furniture generally costs more because it is made with materials designed to last. A modest increase in price upfront can result in a sofa or chair that maintains its shape and comfort for many years.
5. Is flexibility in configuration important?
For homeowners who plan to remain in their current residence for many years, adaptability may be less critical. However, for those who expect to move or enjoy rearranging furniture periodically, modular designs offer numerous configuration options and eliminate permanent left- or right-facing alignments.
6. What is inside the furniture?
Homeowners are increasingly concerned about materials that could affect indoor air quality. Upholstered furniture made with CertiPUR-US certified foam can help address these concerns. Certified foams are manufactured without formaldehyde, ozone depleters, mercury, lead, other heavy metals, or phthalates
home & garden
Getting Real with Native Plants and Pollinators
KENNEBUNK -
Native plants are the foundation of a healthy, resilient ecosystem. Join York County master gardener volunteer Allan Amioka at Kennebunk Free Library on Tuesday, May 19, at 6 p.m. for an engaging talk on the vital role these plants play in supporting pollinators, wildlife, and the environment. Often overlooked or labeled “weeds,” many native plants are essential contributors to thriving landscapes and are beginning to get the recognition they deserve. Discover how
regulated by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. The certification also ensures low volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions—less than 0.5 parts per million—for improved indoor air quality. In addition, certified foams are screened for chemicals, including flame retardants, that are classified as carcinogens, mutagens, or reproductive toxins and may be harmful to human health. Buyers can visit certipur.us/directory to find manufacturers and retailers offering upholstered furniture, mattresses, and pillows made with certified foam.
7. When will it be delivered?
Homeowners with a specific timeline in mind should plan ahead, especially if they need a new piece of furniture before a major event or holiday. Customized orders may require longer delivery times, so buyers should
gardens of any size can make a meaningful difference by creating beautiful, ecologically friendly spaces that support pollinators and strengthen local ecosystems.
Amioka will also outline the four steps to creating a University of Maine–University of New Hampshire (UMaine/UNH)
Certified Pollinator Friendly Garden and share practical ways to incorporate native plants into your own yard or garden.
Allan Amioka has been a master gardener volunteer since 2010. Growing up in an urban
environment sparked an early curiosity about the natural world, even among the trees, plants, and wildlife that thrive in cities. After studying design and photography and later settling in northern New England, he raised a family, built a home, and eventually became a master gardener volunteer after retiring. Through his volunteer work, Amioka has reconnected with the community while focusing on native plants and natural gardening, using his design and photography background to highlight the beauty and importance of these landscapes.
This program is free and wheelchair accessible, and registration is ecnouraged.
The Kennebunk Free Library is located at 112 Main St., Kennebunk. For more information call 207-985-2173 or email kfl@kennebunklibrary.org.
Outdoor Fire Pit Safety Tips
NATIONWIDE
-
A fire pit can be a great addition to a garden and allows homeowners to enjoy outdoor spaces on chillier evenings. But safety should always be a top priority.
The following tips from property and garden expert Harry Bodell at PriceYourJob.co.uk can help ensure safe use of an outdoor
confirm the estimated time frame with the retailer before making a purchase.
Enjoy the shopping process—and treasure your new investment for years to come.
Article provided by Ami Neiberger for CertiPUR-US. The Weekly Sentinel does not endorse products, claims or services suggested in articles from third parties.
fire pit.
Choose a Location
Selecting the right location is the first safety consideration. In general, it is best to avoid using a fire pit on a deck, even if some models are marketed as safe when used with a proper base. Wooden decking poses a fire risk, and composite decking may melt from the heat.
The fire pit should be placed well away from any structures or wooden features in the garden, such as fences, pergolas, or sheds. In autumn, clear away any loose leaves or debris before lighting a fire to reduce the risk of it spreading.
Create a Safe Zone
Creating a safety zone around the fire pit is especially important in homes with children. There should be at least three feet of clear space around the pit— more if burning wood. Certain types of firewood, such as chestnut, are known to throw off sparks and embers as they burn.
Adding a buffer zone can further help. Dig a trench a few inches wide and fill it with sand or dry rocks. Avoid using wet rocks, as they can crack or explode when
~ Library News ~
Berwick Public Library
Book Club
Saturday, May 16, at 10:30 a.m.
Club will discuss “Our Missing Hearts” by Celeste Ng.
Author Talk: Edith Netter
Wednesday, May 20 at 6 p.m.
Netter will talk about her new book, “The House at Schumannstrasse
7: A Holocaust Survivor’s Story.”
Told in the voice of the author’s grandmother, the book is about a beloved home seized by the Nazis, a German concentration camp, British internment camps, the Kindertransport, and a neverbefore-chronicled account of a fraught journey by “sealed train.”
Weekly Events
See website for details.
For More Information
Call the library at 207-698-5737 or visit www.berwick.lib.me.us.
D.A. Hurd Library
Weekly Events
See website for details.
For More Information
Call the library at 207-676-2215 or visit www.da-hurd.lib.me.us.
Graves Memorial Library
Author Talk: Judith Stiles
Friday, May 15 at 2 p.m. New England Author Judith Stiles reads from her new book, “Hush Little Fire.”
Write On!
Thursday, May 21 at 3 p.m. Participants put pen to paper with their thoughts and stories. For al levels.
Furry Tales
Friday, May 22 at 10 a.m. Preschoolers and their families explore the exciting world of animals with stories, playtime, crafts, songs, movement, and plenty of animal time.
Weekly Events
See website for details.
For More Information
CANDIDATE COOKOUT
Call the library at 207-967-2778 or visit www.graveslibrary.org.
Kennebunk Free Library
Super Science
Tuesday, May 19 at 3:45 p.m.
Earth-friendly science and crafts! Make a watering station for bees, create your own seed bombs, and much more! Space is limited, registration required. For ages 5 and up. Free.
Weekly Events
See website for details.
For More Information
Call the library at 207-985-2173 or visit www.kennebunklibrary.org.
Ogunquit
Memorial Library
Fiber Arts Group
Saturday, May 16, 12-2 p.m.
Book Club
Tuesday, May 19, 10:30-11:30 a.m.
May book: “A Marriage at Sea” by Sophie Elmhirst.
With House Candidate Caleb Chase, HD 145, and Senate Candidate J.R. Fallon, SD 34 Hosted by the Honorable Kathleen Chase & Representative Bob
Ogunquit History Group
Wednesday, May 20, 2:30-4 p.m.
May topic: Personal Favorites! What is your favorite home or building in Ogunquit, and why?
Weekly Events
See website for details.
For More Information
Call the library at 207-646-9024 or visit www.ogunquitlibrary.com.
Rice Public Library
Death Café: Going Out Green Saturday, May16, 10:30 a.m. -12
p.m. Registration required.
“Murder by the Book,”
A Comedy Thursday, May 21 and Thursday, June 4 at 6 p.m. The town of Two Spruce must save their library by staging a murder mystery fundraiser. When a real murder occurs during the performance, Lucy the librarian and her team of volunteers must solve the crime to save the library and stop the killer. The script was written by mystery
See RICE on page 8...
writer Lousi Penny and playwright
~ Library News ~
Come celebrate St. George’s 75 years!
On May 16, 1951, St. George’s, York Harbor formally became a church. Across all the years since, we have so much to be grateful for.
On Saturday, May 16, the whole York community is welcome to an opening reception, with food and music, for a gallery in the church that tells our Parish story in art and objects. The party begins at 4 p.m. and continues until 7 p.m.
On Sunday, May 17, Thomas Brown, Bishop of The Episcopal Diocese of Maine, will be with us to worship and celebrate at our 10 a.m. service. We’ll dedicate a maple tree, planted in the churchyard, as a sign of our hope and commitment as we look toward the future.
South Berwick Public Library
Buck-a-Bag Sale, May 15–16!
4-H Science Friday Friday, May 15, 3:30-4:30 p.m.
For ages 8 and up. This month’s theme: “Let the Sun Shine” - UV bead bracelets!
Virtual Author Talk: Nir Eyal Tuesday, May 19 at 2 p.m., online. Author Nir Eyal discusses his book, “Beyond Belief,” and how beliefs shape perception, emotions and actions. Drawing on neuroscience and psychology, Eyal shares strategies for overcoming limiting beliefs and unlocking potential. Registration required for Zoom link.
Intuitive Tea Blending
Wednesday, May 20, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Herbalist Brenna Lilly of Brisingamen Botanicals leads a workshop on the principles of blending herbal teas using the power of intuition. Participants will leave with a bag of their own intuitively blended herbal tea to enjoy at home. REgistration required.
Weekly Events
See website for details.
For More Information
Call the library at 207-384-3308 or visit www.southberwicklibrary.org.
Wells Public Library
Tiny Art Show Registration
Friday, May 15. Wells Public Library is hosting a tiny art show for adults and teens! Register and pick up your canvas and paints from May 15–June 15. From June 15–30, bring back your masterpieces, and the library will display them for the months of July and August!
Living With AI
Tuesday, May 19 at 6 p.m. Jim Kelly explores the history of artificial intelligence in fact and fiction, its growing role in daily life, and
the potential impact on privacy and livelihoods. Free.
Teen Movie Screening: Boss Baby (2017, PG)
Wednesday, May 20 at 1 p.m. A suit-wearing, briefcase-carrying baby pairs up with his imaginative seven-year-old brother to stop a dastardly corporate plot, proving that love is not a fi nite resource. Free; popcorn provided!
Non-Fiction Book Club
Thursday, May 21 at 4:30 p.m. This month: “How to Say Babylon: A Memoir” by Safi ya Sinclair.
Weekly Events
See website for details.
For More Information
Call the library at 207-646-8181 or visit www.wellslibrary.org.
William Fogg Library
Biography & Memoir Book Club
Friday, May 15 at 1 p.m. “Wild” by Cheryl Strayed. Copies available to borrow at the front desk.
Garden Hand Tool Swap
Saturday, May 16, all day at the Fogg House. Drop-offs on Thursday and Friday; swap itself takes place Saturday.
Creature Creator Robotics
Workshop
Saturday, May 16 at 1 p.m. For ages 6-14. Participants build animal-inspired robot models and learn about robotic principles. Hosted by Snapology. Free.
Adult Fiction Book Club
Wednesday, May 20 at 3:15 p.m. “Mad Honey” Jodi Picoult and Jennifer Finney Boylan.
Family Game Night
Thursday, May 21, 6-7 p.m.
Puzzle Day
Friday, May 22, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Library Closed Saturday, May 23, in observance of Memorial Day.
See FOGG on page 9...
Weekly
Events
See website for details.
For More Information
Call the library at 207-439-9437 or visit www.williamfogglibrary.org.
York Public Library
Alzheimer’s Support Group
Saturday, May 16, 10-11 a.m. For those living with early memory loss and their caregivers.
Artists Talk: Surf Point Artists in Residency
Monday, May 18 at 4 p.m. Surf Point artist residents Sharmistha Ray, Dahn Gim, and Soulaf Abas speak about their ideas and work. Q&A to follow.
Virtual Author Talk: Nir Eyal
Tuesday, May 19, 2-3 p.m. via Zoom. Author Nir Eyal discusses his new work, “Beyond Belief.”
Contact the library for Zoom link.
Lunch with Teen Librarian Danie
Wednesday, May 20, 12-1 p.m. in the Hangout room. For tweens and teens in grades 5+. Join Danie for sandwiches, mac-n-cheese, and ramen.
Medicare Counseling Appointments
Thursday, May 21, 5-6 p.m. for those new to Medicare or who need help understanding their coverage. Sponsored by Southern Maine Agency on Aging. By appointment only. FMI: 207-3966524.
YPL Writing Group
Third Tuesday of the month at 5:30 p.m. Upcoming: May 19.
Weekly Events
See website for details.
...BABIES from page 1
of the most rewarding,” said Senior Wildlife Specialist Sam Cox. “This event gives our community the opportunity to get a closer look at the care involved in raising wildlife babies, celebrate the animals in our care, and be a part of the support system that makes this care possible.”
Part of the Wild Baby Birthday Bash will take place outdoors along uneven, forested terrain, with a portion of the trail stroller- and wheelchairaccessible to support an inclusive experience. Participants are also welcome to explore the Nature Center and campus until 4 p.m., giving guests additional time to enjoy the grounds after the event.
Tickets are limited and the event fills quickly; advance registration is strongly encouraged.
The Center for Wildlife is a wildlife medical clinic and nature-based education center that treats more than 2,500 injured and orphaned wild animals each year and offers hundreds of educational programs to the community. Founded in 1986, the nonprofit has never received state or federal funding.
For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www. thecenterforwildlife.org and go to the events calendar.
For More Information
Call the library at 207-363-2818 or visit www.yorkpubliclibrary.org.
~ News ~
~ Calendar of Events ~
enter. All parking areas and bathrooms will be open. May 25–September 7, every day: Gate attendants will be at the park, pass required. All parking areas and bathrooms will be open. Fort Foster will be closing at 1 p.m. Friday, June 12, for Traip Academy graduation. Visitors must vacate park by 12:30 p.m. Passes can be purchased at Kittery Town Hall Customer Service Center, 200 Rogers Rd., or online. FMI: www. kitteryme.gov/272/Fort-FosterPark or 207-439-0452.
Town of North Berwick
Second Chance Closet
Mondays and Thursdays, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. in the yurt next to Mary Hurd Academy, 77 High St., North Berwick. Free clothing, toys, books, shoes. Closet run by trained student volunteers. Donations of clothes, time, or cash accepted. FMI: rebecca.manning@ msad60.org or 207-676-2103.
Town of South Berwick
HiSET, ESL Classes
HiSET (formerly known as GED) classes and exams and English as a Second Language (ESL) classes available at Marshwood Adult and Community Education, 260 Dow Hwy., South Berwick. HiSET classes and exams are free for Maine residents, ESL classes are free for all. Day and evening classes available. FMI: 207-351-0167.
Town of Wells
Absentee Ballots Available Absentee Ballots are now available for the Tuesday, June 9
Annual Town Meeting and State of Maine Primary Election. Request Deadline: Thursday, June 4, 2026 during regular business hours, without special circumstance. Return Deadline: All voted absentee ballots must be received by 8 p.m. on Election Day, Tuesday, June 9. FMI: www.wellstown. org/m/newsflash?cat=11.
Wells Democratic Committee 5 p.m. at Wells Public Library, 1434 Post Rd., Wells, on the third Wednesday of the month. All Wells Democrats are welcome. FMI: wellsmaineoutreach@gmail. com or 207-450-1199. Upcoming: May 20.
Wells Republican Town Committee
Meets monthly at locations TBA, 6-8 p.m. Upcoming: Thursday, May 21, at the Seacoast Republican Headquarters, 99 York St., Kennebunk. All Republicans are invited for an evening of information and discussion about the June 9th elections. FMI: nford. wellsgop@gmail.com or 207-4682395.
Town of York
York Farmers Market
Saturdays, May 23–Oct 10, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. at Visitors Center, 1 Stonewall Ln., York. Area vendors and makers showcase their products in this weekly Summertime tradition. FMI: www.gatewayfarmersmarket.com or 207-363-4422.
York Republican Committee Meets monthly at locations TBA. Upcoming: Tuesday, May 19, 6-8 p.m. at the American Legion, See YORK on page 11...
Meadowbrook Plaza, 647 US Route 1, York. FMI: www.yorkgop. me or 207-370-7523.
Monthly Happenings
Show Me The Money
Second and fourth Sunday of the month, 2-4 p.m. at York Elks Lodge #2788, 1704 Rte. 1, Cape Neddick. Doors open 1 p.m. Cash prizes, 50/50 raffle, Queen of Hearts drawings, pull-tab games, complimentary food at half-time. Open to the public. FMI: 207-3612788.
Men’s Group
First and third Monday of the month at the Wells-Ogunquit Senior Center, 300 Post Rd., Wells. A place for men to gather and talk about anything on their minds. The group also participates in social outings and fundraisers for the community. For all ages. FMI: 978729-3098. Upcoming: May 18.
Coffee with the Guys
First and third Tuesday of the month, 10 a.m. at Dunkin’, 151 Harold L. Dow Hwy (Rte. 236), Eliot. Local men are invited to join in coffee and conversation. FMI: aipnedra@gmail.com. Upcoming: May 19.
The Compassionate Friends... of York County
Second and fourth Tuesday of the month, 6:30-8 p.m. at Wells Public Library, 1434 Post Rd., Wells. Facilitated sharing group offering friendship and hope to bereaved parents and grandparents experiencing the death of a teen or adult child. FMI: info@tcfyork.org. Upcoming: May 16.
Phyllis Ann Gordon, 84
WELLS – Phyllis Ann Gordon, of Wells, passed away peacefully at home with four generations of family by her side.
Phyllis was born January 10, 1942, in Providence, RI, to Sumner and Hilda Gordon.
In 1955, the family moved to Moody, where they built and operated the N’er Beach Motel. Alongside her three siblings, Phyllis wore many hats to help her parents—breakfast cook, chambermaid, and whatever else was needed.
She attended Wells High School, where she met and later married her sweetheart, Robert “Bob” Goodale. Together they had two children, Peter and Jane.
Phyllis was a natural entrepreneur. After attending beauty school, she started her own doorto-door hairstyling business, often bringing one or both of her children along with her. Her clients quickly became friends, and many became like family.
A talented artist, Phyllis had been painting since 1960. Mostly self-taught with some guidance from artist Fred Hines, she remained modest about her remarkable talent. She especially loved painting the Maine coast, Perkins Cove, Marginal Way, and other places she held close to her heart.
In 1978, she purchased and opened Seacoast Gallery and Framing on Route 1 in Wells.
~ Calendar of Events ~
Kennebunk Amateur
Radio Society
First and third Wednesdays of the month, 7 p.m. at The New School, 38 York St., Kennebunk. The New England Radio Discussion Society supports and promotes amateur (ham) radio. Topics include early and contemporary equipment, digital technology, internet integration, and making international contacts. Most meetings include a “tech talk” by members. FMI: 207967-8812. Upcoming: May 20.
Wednesday Walks
First and third Wednesday of the month, 10:30 a.m. - 12 p.m. at the Wells Reserve at Laudholm, 342 Laudholm Farm Rd., Wells. Docent and ranger Norma Fox leads a variety of walks designed to get outside and enjoy nature. For ages 12 and up. Free. Registration required at www.wellsreserve.org/ calendar, or 207-646-1555. Upcoming: May 20.
Bean & Casserole Supper
Third Saturday of the month, 4-5:30 p.m. at Trailblazers, 102 Bills Ln., Wells. Many homemade dishes; coffee and dessert included. Cash bar available. $10 per adult, $7 per child 4-8, free for children under 4. FMI: 207468-9747. Upcoming: May 16.
Reiki Share
Monthly, 3:30-5 p.m. at Elevate Within, 266 York St., York. Participants gather to elevate vibrations and create positive change through shared intention and Reiki. $15. FMI: www.elevatewithinyourself.com/events.
Weekly Happenings
Al-Anon
Weekly meetings throughout York
County offering a mutual support group for those affected by another’s drinking. In-person, Zoom, and hybrid meetings available. FMI: www.maineafg.org, 207-2841844, or 800-498-1844.
Tobacco & Nicotine Support
Mondays, 6-7:30 p.m. at St. David’s Episcopal Church, 138 York St., Kennebunk. In-person group provides information and supportive resources to those trying to quit. Free and confidential. FMI: edward.perka@yahoo.com.
TOPS Weekly Meetings
Tuesdays, 5 p.m. at Bethel Christian Church, 129 Main St., North Berwick. TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) is a nonprofit weight loss support group. FMI: 207475-6735.
Stay; Man to Man Peer Support Group Tuesdays, 6:30-7:30 p.m. at Trailblazers, 102 Bills Ln., Wells. An open and affi rming environment for men to talk about issues on their minds. Discussions are lowkey, nonjudgemental, and peerled. Organized by Stay; For Life. Free. FMI: www.stayforlife.org or stayforlife2022@gmail.com.
GriefShare Tuesdays, 6:30-8 p.m. at York Bible Church, 61 York St., York. A 13-week faith-based support group designed to help participants find hope after the loss of a loved one. Runs until May 19. FMI and to register: www.griefshare. org/groups/261959, mace5@ maine.rr.com or 207-363-3965.
Moderate Exercise Classes Wednesdays and Fridays, 9-10 a.m. at Dunaway Center Auditorium, 23 School St., Ogunquit.
Emphasis on balance, strength, training, and laughter. No sign-up necessary. Free. FMI: 207-3618100.
GriefShare
Wednesdays, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. at First Baptist Church, 130 Main St., South Berwick. Faith-based support group for those grieving the loss of a loved one. FMI and to register: https://find.griefshare. org/groups/286683.
Overeaters Anonymous Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. via Zoom, Call Susan at 207-752-3007 for link; Fridays at 9 a.m. at First Parish Church Hall, 180 York St., York. For those who struggle with food, weight, or unwanted food behaviors. Free. FMI: www.oa.org.
Community Supper Thursdays, 4-5 p.m. at Mainspring: The Seacoast Service Collective, 22 Shapleigh Rd., Kittery. Free meals to the community every Thursday. FMI: 207-439-4673.
Friday, May 15 –
Saturday, May 16
Annual Spring Fair
9 a.m. - 3 p.m. at Center for Active Living, 36 Main St., York. Made in Maine crafts and gifts, housewares, vintage jewelry, seasonal decor, assorted baked goods, attic treasures, plant and fl ower sale, tag sale, raffles. Food for sale as well. FMI: 207-363-1036.
Saturday, May 16
Plant Sale & Garden Market
9 a.m. - 1 p.m. at Eliot UCC, 1361 State Rd., Eliot. Annuals, perennials, garden items, crafts. Sponsored by J.S. Pelkey Funeral Home, J.S. Pelkey Family Trust,
~ Obituaries ~
What began as a dream became a successful business for 44 years.
Phyllis loved welcoming and encouraging artists of all ages. Her paintings adorned the gallery walls and reflected the care, pride, and attention she poured into every brushstroke.
She also loved framing others’ artwork and had a special gift for selecting just the right combination of colors and frames. Customers always left with beautifully finished pieces—and a smile from Phyllis. Over the years, she formed countless meaningful friendships through the gallery.
Phyllis loved nature, flow-
ers, gardening, reading, feeding birds, and playing cards and board games. But above all else, spending time with family and friends was at the center of her heart.
During the last 12 years of her life, she became an active member of the Wells-Ogunquit Senior Center, where she learned to play Mahjong and met many dear friends who loved to compete—and win—just as much as she did. She also volunteered many hours there, as the Senior Center was one of her happy places.
Phyllis was the best mother any child could wish for. She taught grace, kindness, strength, compassion, integrity, and confidence. She was the true definition of family, and her children feel deeply blessed to have been hers.
She loved to laugh, often to the point of tears, with whoever was lucky enough to be beside her. She was always ready for a game—especially the game Nickels—with her grandchildren and their friends. Most recently, she delighted in teaching them Mah-
and Steve’s Auto Body, Eliot. FMI: www.eliotucc.org or 207-4391105.
Hope Woods Walk
10 a.m. at Hope Woods, Kennebunk. Guided walks led by Maine Master Naturalist Gordon Collins. Accessible trail, handicap parking, walk takes about an hour. Free, registration required at friendsofhcw@gmail.com or 207387-9100.
Mayfaire Celebration
10 a.m. - 2 p.m. at Seacoast Waldorf School, 403 Harold L Dow Hwy., Eliot. Flower crowns, puppet shows, cake parade, treasure dig, crafts and games, food and drinks. FMI: www.seacoastwaldorfschool. org or 207-686-3140.
2nd Annual Geranium Sale
10 a.m. - 2 p.m. the Nott House (White Columns), 8 Maine St., Kennebunkport. Sponsored by Wallingford Farm. FMI: www.kporths. com/geranium-sale.
Spring Fever Fest Plant Sale
10 a.m. - 2 p.m. at The New School, 38 York St., Kennebunk. Native plants and seeds, herb and fl ower seedlings, live music, lawn games and free crafts. Pickle samples from Eden Acres Family Farm, plus apple cider vinegar, cider popsicles and bath and body products for sale. Beekeeping demo by Mountain View Bees, with honey available; gardening info booths; homeopathy and fl ower essences by In Harmony Homeopathy; yard-to-garden workshop; teacup bird feedermaking; ice cream, lemonade and pizza. Free; some workshops require a materials fee. FMI: www.
See MAY 16 on page 20...
jong. When asked, “What’s the object of this game?” her answer was always immediate: “To WIN!”
Phyllis was selfless, always putting others before herself. She was quietly proud, and rightfully so. She made a lasting difference in so many lives simply by being exactly who she was: genuine, kind, talented, and loving.
She will be missed beyond measure. Her smile, her kindness, and her presence will never be forgotten.
She is survived by her son, Peter Goodale and his fiancée, Michelle; her daughter, Jane Driscoll, and her husband, Mi-
chael, who was like a son to her; her beloved grandchildren, Jennifer Crumpler and husband Chris, Kyle Goodale, and Katie Goodale; and her great-granddaughters, Avery Crumpler and Marceline Alterman. She is also survived by her siblings, Ronald Gordon and his wife, Loni, Linda Douglas, and Jack Gordon, along with several nieces and nephews. At Phyllis’s request, there will be no services. She will be laid to rest at Ocean View Cemetery in Wells. In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to the Wells-Ogunquit Senior Center.
People & Business Profiles
Berwick Honors Outstanding Residents at Annual Recognition Dinner
BERWICKNothing could dissuade the crowds that gathered at the Berwick Town Hall auditorium on a rainy May evening for the biennial Citizenship Recognition Dinner. The event gives Berwick residents an opportunity to honor those who routinely contribute their time and talent to the betterment of the community.
The dinner is a joint effort of the town of Berwick and Charles S. Hatch Post #79 of the American Legion. Post Commander Mike Colby served as the evening’s master of ceremonies.
More than 100 attendees enjoyed a buffet prepared and served by Scott Davis and his staff from Shaker Hill Bakery & Catering in Alfred.
Berwick Select Board member Cyrus Morgan presented the first award of the evening, the Boston Post Cane, to longtime Berwick resident Dorothy Morrill.
The Boston Post Cane tradition began in 1909, when the Boston Post newspaper, then owned by Edwin Grozier, sent 700 gold-tipped canes to towns in Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island with populations of more than 500. The initiative was intended to boost the paper’s circulation.
Towns were asked to present the canes to their oldest residents, who held the honor until they died or moved away, at which point the cane passed to
the next oldest citizen. Following debate, women became eligible to receive the cane in 1930.
The Boston Post Cane has been presented in countless small New England towns for more than a century, serving as an ongoing tribute to individuals who have enjoyed long, fulfilling lives.
Dorothy Morrill, known as “Dottie” to many who know and love her, is a longtime resident of Berwick. Her family moved to the area when she was 16, and she remained. In her younger years, Morrill worked at Somersworth Shoe and lived on Bridge Street downtown. She recalled that Berwick was a quiet town, with people often walking from Berwick to Somersworth.
Morrill met her husband, Lawrence, while skating on Hall’s Pond and attending dances on the second floor above Turcotte’s Garage, now Corner Point Brewery, though some say they met at the dairy barn. They were married in 1946 at the Berwick United Methodist Church; she was 18 and he was 20. The couple was married for 71 years. Morrill, currently 98, will turn 99 this August.
Kathy Sheedy honored Cooper Manser as the 2026 Student Volunteer of the Year, recognizing his dedication to volunteer work and community service during his time at Noble High School. Manser, a member of the class of 2026, graduated with a 3.7 GPA. Among his accomplish-
KITTERY -
American roots and folk
band Low Lily will perform in Kittery for the first time, with Maine singer-songwriter Elsie Gawler as the opening act.
The trio—Liz Simmons, Flynn Cohen and Lily Sexton—will appear at The Dance Hall in Kittery on May 15 at 7:30 p.m.
Rooted in North American vocal and fiddle traditions, the group performs a mix of instrumental and vocal arrangements. The musicians play mandolin, guitar, fiddle and banjo, and perform three-part vocal harmonies.
The New England-based trio performs a blend of roots and folk styles that draws on fiddle traditions, contemporary folk, bluegrass, and Americana influences. The group is known for vocal harmonies and acoustic instrumentation, and has released recordings that have appeared on international folk radio charts and received Independent Music Awards recognition.
Their song “Hope Lingers On,” from the 2018 album
ments, he led the AGE Matter advocacy campaign, successfully pressuring USA Lacrosse to change a national policy.
Berwick firefighters Dylan Leary and Brandon Lyon presented a Certificate of Appreciation to Alex Plante, who was named Firefighter of the Year for his commendable and dedicated service to the community. Plante was selected from among the town’s first responders.
Berwick Police Captain and Post #79 member Jerry Locke presented a Certificate of Appreciation to Sergeant Nicholas Higgins, who was named Police Officer of the Year for his efforts to keep the Berwick community a safer place to live, work, and play.
Post #79 Commander Mike Colby presented Lynn Rendell with the Post Americanism Award. Members of Charles S. Hatch Post #79 established the Commander Mark T. Pilgrim Americanism Award in memory of former Post Commander Pilgrim to recognize select members for their inspiration, spirit of patriotism, outstanding service, and dedication to fellow veterans and the Berwick community. Rendell, a longtime post member and District 1 service officer, was chosen for this honor by unanimous vote.
Kathy Sheedy presented the Adult Volunteer of the Year award, a shared honor for Amrita Cottrell and Dennis Jackson for their dedicated work with the Berwick Community Garden.
The garden was born from a conversation in March 2022 among community stakeholders who recognized the growing need for affordable, healthy, local food and opportunities for social interaction. Cottrell and Jackson, both experienced master gardeners, undertook the project with dedication and expertise. To date, they have raised more than $90,000 in grants and donations to fund their initiatives.
Sheri Clement’s Primal Fit, a functional fitness gym that Sheri Clement owns, operates, and coaches, was named Berwick’s Business of the Year for 2026. Clement, a Noble High School alumna, established the gym with the goal of creating safe, fun, and effective programming for athletes at all levels of wellness. Of particular note is Clement’s Rock Steady Boxing class, which provides non-contact boxing-style fitness programs for people with Parkinson’s disease, helping to improve quality of life as well as participants’ sense of efficacy and self-worth. Laurie Pierce accepted the award on Clement’s behalf.
Berwick’s most prestigious award, the Citizen of the Year, recognizes a local resident for dedication and significant contributions to the community. Berwick Town Select Board member Cyrus Morgan presented the award to Patricia Boisvert.
The town recognized Boisvert for her dedication to local
~ Arts & Entertainment ~
“10,000 Days Like These,” has also been performed by choirs internationally.
Low Lily’s founding members are married couple Liz Simmons (vocals, guitar) and Flynn Cohen (vocals, mandolin, guitar), both of Brattleboro, VT. The band also includes new member Lily Sexton of Turners Falls, Massachusetts.
Sexton is a fiddler and vocalist whose playing and voice contribute to the group’s threepart vocal harmonies, a key element of the band’s sound.
Opening the show will be Elsie Gawler of Appleton, a multi-instrumentalist rooted in Maine’s traditional folk music. She has performed with the Gawler Family Band, which has played throughout the state and beyond with a focus on fiddle tunes, songs and original works.
Gawler began performing with the group as a child and has since released a solo album, “Sweet As Honey.” She continues to perform with the family band and is also involved in other
As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, artist Mateo Blanco presents “Silver Falls Flag” (2026), a textile work exploring one of the nation’s most enduring symbols.
The piece will be on display May 16–Aug. 23 at the Brick Store Museum, 117 Main St., Kennebunk. The display is part of the museum’s ongoing “From Many, One: Visions of American Patriotism at 250” program, which features artifacts and artwork marking the milestone.
The work reimagines the American flag in motion, with its stars appearing to descend, dissolve and flow as if carried
projects, including the duo Elsie & Ethan, the trio The Gawler Sisters and the ensemble Childsplay.
The Dance Hall Kittery is located at 7 Walker St., Kittery. For more information and tickets, visit www.thedancehallkittery.org/events/low-lilly.
history and her outstanding volunteer efforts. She and her husband, Paul, were honored in the 2019–2020 Berwick Town Report, which was dedicated to them for their valuable contributions. As a steadfast advocate for family and the town, the Select Board nominated Boisvert to serve on the Berwick Board of Appeals, where she currently provides guidance on land use and variances.
For several years, Boisvert has actively participated in numerous local and regional groups, including the Downtown Vision Committee (now Envision Berwick), Berwick for a Lifetime, the Preservation and Heritage Committee, the Salmon Falls River Water Quality Testing Program, the ice-skating rink, Great Falls Park, Seacoast Trail Riders Association events, and the Riverfront Kayak Launch Volunteers. Her extensive volunteer work has helped strengthen Berwick’s small-community lifestyle, benefiting residents of all ages. Boisvert’s presence motivates volunteers and energizes the town. Boisvert serves as a member of the Berwick for a Lifetime Committee, the town’s official AARP Age-Friendly Committee. She helps deliver food-commodity boxes to residents, provides winter sand buckets to keep residents safe during icy conditions, and co-coordinates the Handy Helpers Tool Kits and Brain Boost Activity Kits, offering valuable resources to the community.
See BERWICK on page 27...
by water. The flag is rendered in cascading silver threads intended to evoke waterfalls and natural movement.
The shifting threads create a surface that changes with light and perspective. Each filament suggests connections between people, histories and states, while the overall composition reflects themes of unity and shared experience.
Blanco’s work often incorporates American symbols and themes of identity and culture. He holds a Bachelor of Arts from Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton, FL, and has worked as an opera singer. He performed for President George H.W. Bush in 2003.
His connection to Maine is tied in part to his relationship with Bush. Blanco has said that time spent in the state influenced his appreciation of the region as a place associated with reflection and tradition.
Over the past several years, Blanco has focused on reinterpretations of the American flag.
His work has been exhibited at institutions including The Butler Institute of American Art, the Boca Raton Museum of Art and the DeLand Museum of Art. With “Silver Falls Flag,” Blanco presents a reinterpretation of a familiar national symbol, encouraging viewers to consider it in a different visual form.
For more information, visit www.brickstoremuseum.org.
KENNEBUNK -
~ Arts & Entertainment ~
‘Half-Written Play’ Addresses Climate Change
WELLS -
The Wells Reserve at Laudholm will host the public debut of “The Half-Written Play,” an interactive theater program designed to explore how communities approach decisionmaking around climate change policy. The program will take place Sunday, May 17, from 2 to
4 p.m. in Mather Auditorium at the Wells Reserve at Laudholm, 342 Laudholm Farm Rd., Wells. Admission is free, but registration is required.
Created by the University of New Hampshire’s PowerPLAY, a professional theater group specializing in interactive performance, the program depicts a
York Public Library Hosts Surf Point Residents’ Talk
YORKThe York Public Library will host an artists’ talk on Monday, May 18, at 4 p.m., featuring Surf Point residents Soulaf Abas, Dahn Gim, and Sharmistha Ray. As part of the library’s Meet the Residents series, the artists will discuss their work and creative ideas, followed by a Q&A session with the public.
The event is free and open to all. Donations to Surf Point are welcome to support future programs. Attendees are encouraged to review Surf Point’s Community Values to help maintain a respectful environment.
About the Residents Soulaf Abas, born and raised in Damascus, Syria, is a painter and printmaker whose work explores loss, trauma, and social justice. She earned a BFA in 2008 and an MFA in painting in 2013, both from Indiana State University. Abas has taught art at the Arab European University in Syria and part-time at Indiana State University. Her experiences visiting Damascus during the Syrian revolution inspired much of her recent work.
Her paintings and prints have been exhibited nationally
and internationally. She has received multiple awards and residencies, including the Social Justice Residency in Santa Fe, NM, and ELCE Grants from Indiana State University. Abas lives and works in Terre Haute, IN, with her partner, dogs, cat, and many plants.
Dahn Gim is a multimedia artist whose work transforms repurposed objects and personal archives to explore the boundaries between the familiar and the unknown. Born in Busan, South Korea, and raised in Toronto, Canada, she earned her MFA from UCLA.
Gim has exhibited internationally at venues including Somerset House (UK), Post Territory Ujeongguk and DDP (South Korea), the Los Angeles Municipal Art Gallery, Hammer Museum, Steve Turner Gallery (Los Angeles), Currents New Media (Santa Fe), Rochester Art Center, and Hair and Nails Gallery (Minneapolis/New York City). She has received numerous awards, including the 2026 Minnesota State Arts Board Creative Individual Grant, the 2025 MRAC Artist Impact Grant, and
See TALK on page 28...
community confronting a local policy decision related to coastal flooding. The performance will pause midway, after which audience members will help determine how the story concludes.
The project is associated with the New Frontiers in Research Fund, which supports interdisciplinary research initiatives. It is part of a broader international effort, with related projects being presented in Canada, the United Kingdom and Germany, examining how interactive theater and design thinking can be used to improve communication and community decision-making around climate and sustainability challenges.
To register, visit https:// tinyurl.com/HalfWrittenPlay WellsReserve. This is an interactive program; audience members
should come prepared to participate.
For more information, visit www.wellsreserve.org/calendar.
~ Arts & Entertainment ~
York County Audubon Hosts Talk on Purple Martin Conservation
in-
vites the community to a special program at 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 19, when biologist Anna Forsman will present an entertain-
ing talk on protecting a very special bird, the Purple Martin. The program will be held in the Mather Auditorium at the Wells Reserve at Laudholm, 342 Laudholm Farm Rd., Wells, and will also be live-streamed via Zoom.
The Purple Martin is North America’s largest swallow, known for its iridescent plumage and distinctive liquid gurgling call. Once common across the East Coast, the species has seen a steep decline over the past 50 years. In Maine, where Purple Martins were once widespread, populations have dropped by about 95%, leaving just a handful of active colonies. Forsman’s research aims to better understand the causes of this dramatic decline
Forsman’s research at Colby College focuses on how birds, including Purple Martins, interact with bacteria, viruses, and parasites in their environments. She is also studying how environmental factors, such as insect availability and climate, affect immune system
function in
birds. Last year, her community science project, Pooper Snoopers, collected fecal samples from more than 200 Purple Martin colonies across the United States, including one established by York County Audubon along the Mousam River in Kennebunk. DNA analysis of these samples will help researchers determine the birds’ insect diet across their breeding range.
Forsman earned her doctorate in ecology and evolutionary biology at Cornell University. She studied Purple Martins for several years during postdoctoral work at the University of Central Florida, where she established the UCF Purple Martin Project. She joined the faculty at Colby College three years ago and has studied cavity-nesting birds for more than 20 years.
The program is free and open to all ages, and no registration is required for in-person attendance. Those wishing to view the program via Zoom must register in advance at www.yorkcountyaudubon.org.
York County Audubon
~ Arts & Entertainment ~
Hackmatack Farm Unveils Summer Lineup
BERWICK
-
Hackmatack Farm + Playhouse has announced its farmrelated events for its summer 2026 season, including a Farm to Table Dinner on May 23, monthly contra dances, and a youth nature camp. The organization said it aims to create an immersive community environment with programming for families and will bring back its seasonal events for 2026.
The Farm to Table Dinner on May 23 will feature a seasonal, locally sourced meal from Hackmatack Farm, including pastureraised bison and Mangalitsa pork, along with live music and opportunities for community gathering.
Chef Evan Mallett of the The Black Trumpet in Portsmouth, NH, a James Beard Award-nominated chef, will prepare the meal, which will focus on regional and sustainable food systems.
“In an age when many people have lost the opportunity to connect with local farms and the farmers who grow their food, our farm-to-table dinner gives the community a chance to see firsthand how their food is sustainably raised, while enjoying a thoughtfully crafted meal prepared by one of our region’s most popular chefs,” said Aram
Guptill of Hackmatack Farm + Playhouse.
Monthly contra dances will continue throughout the summer at Hackmatack Farm + Playhouse, featuring live music, an expert caller, and participants of all experience levels. The dances are held in the farm’s 19th-century barn and include a beginner lesson from 6:30 to 7 p.m., followed by dancing from 7 to 9 p.m. A different musical group performs each month.
The events are open to dancers of all experience levels and are designed to foster community participation.
The Hackmatack Nature Camp will also run for children ages 5 to 13, offering outdoor, nature-based activities in Berwick. Campers will take part in hiking, wildlife and farm observation, arts and crafts, and lessons on local ecosystems and conserva-
tion. Weekly sessions will feature different themes focused on environmental awareness and exploration.
Nature Camp directors Jen Insley and Jenna Corriveau bring experience in education, counseling, and nature-based programming to the summer program, providing a hands-on environment for children to explore the outdoors.
Corriveau said the camp aims to give children practical experiences and opportunities for problem-solving. “We want children to leave with the quiet confidence that comes from having done something real—built something, made something, figured something out on their own,” she said.
Hackmatack Farm + Playhouse will continue its summer programming through October, offering events and activities for
SUMMER CLOTHES are arriving now. LOTS OF DRESSES! Fridays & Saturdays White Tickets Are 1/2 Price!
2 Bragdon Ln, Kennebunk (next to Anchor Fence) (207) 985-3544
~ Arts & Entertainment ~
Congdon’s After Dark Kicks Off 10th Season
WELLSCongdon’s After Dark, the outdoor food truck park next to Congdon’s Doughnuts on U.S. Route 1 in Wells, will kick off its 10th season Thursday, May
21, with a lineup of food trucks, live music, local drinks, familyfriendly events, and new attractions for locals and visitors.
What began with just three food trucks in 2017 has grown into one of southern Maine’s signature summer dining destinations. This season, Congdon’s After Dark will feature more than 25 rotating food trucks, along with weekly entertainment, community fundraisers, and special events.
“Congdon’s After Dark has become such a special part of summer in Wells,” said Jillian Shomphe, owner and operator of Congdon’s Doughnuts and Congdon’s After Dark.
“It’s more than a place to grab dinner. It’s where families make memories, friends come together, and visitors get to experience the energy, flavor, and community that make Maine summers so special.”
The park will operate Thursday through Sunday until late June, then transition to daily operations through Labor Day. Each night will feature
seven to 10 food trucks offering a wide variety of cuisines and desserts.
New for 2026, the park will expand its entertainment lineup with weekly value nights, park upgrades, and the first annual Summer Concert Series. The series includes four special nights of live music: a Summer Kickoff Concert with The Womps on June 12, Reggae Night with Roots, Rhythm and Dub on July 23, Summer Vibes with The Jumping Willys on August 13, and an End-of-Summer Party with Toby McAllister & The Sierra Sounds on September 3.
In addition to live music, the park will host weekly car shows starting in July, family fun nights, community fundraisers, and a bar truck serving Maine craft beer, wine, and signature cocktails.
Admission and parking are free, leashed pets are welcome, and vegan and gluten-free options will be available.
For more information, visit www.cadfoodtrucks.com.
~ Arts & Entertainment ~
Tom Snow Returns with an All-New Show
OGUNQUITJazz pianist Tom Snow is set to play with his band at 7:30 p.m. Friday, May 15, at Jonathan’s Restaurant, 92 Bourne Lane, Ogunquit.
Snow is known as a pianist and music educator. He is a cum laude graduate of the New England Conservatory of Music, where he earned a Master of Music in 2005, and Berklee College of Music, where he earned a Bachelor of Music in 1991.
Snow works across multiple genres as a pianist. He has played with a long list of musical luminaries, including jazz artists Harry Allen, Dave Holland, Ken Peplowski, Larry Coryell, Nick Brignola, Gray Sargent and Herb Pomeroy. He has been a member of the John Allmark Jazz Orchestra, accompanied Ireland’s John MacNally, composed with singer-songwriter Gene McDaniels, toured with folk icon Jonathan Edwards and performed alongside Grammy-winning saxophonist Jeff Coffin.
As a recording artist, Snow has published five CDs of his work and has worked as a session player on dozens of others. His work as a music educator spans more than 30 years and includes work in public and private schools, colleges and universities. Snow is based in the coastal community of Yarmouth, where he lives with his family, including Gracie and Joy, his Golden Retrievers.
For this special performance, Snow will be joined by
jazz vocalist Katie Oberholtzer, with Marshall Wood on bass, Phil McGowan on drums, and saxophonist Ralph Norris. Katie Oberholtzer has worked and performed with musicians such as Christian McBride, John Pizzarelli, Shelly Borg, Byron Lynch and Cyrille Aimée. She has performed at many venues, including Dizzy’s Club at Jazz at Lincoln Center, and is a regular guest performer with Maine’s Portland Jazz Or-
chestra.
Marshall Wood has performed at major jazz festivals in the United States, Canada, Europe and South America, and has appeared on major network television programs. He has performed and recorded with jazz masters including Dizzy Gillespie, Clark Terry, Marian McPartland and Big Joe Turner.
He toured for many years with Tony Bennett as a bassist. He is featured on Bennett’s double-platinum, Grammy Awardwinning album Duets II, which includes a duet with Lady Gaga.
Phil McGowan has performed at concert halls, clubs, music festivals and cruise ships in Europe, Africa and Asia. He has shared the stage with artists including Judy Collins and “American Idol” finalists John Stevens and Siobhan Magnus.
Ralph Norris has been
active in the New England music scene for more than 50 years. He has performed and recorded with many musicians, including Tom Snow, and has also worked with Maine musicians Don Doane and Terry White.
All $29 tickets will be automatically upgraded to forward seating at no additional cost on
the night of the performance, subject to availability. Dinner and drink packages will also be available from Jonathan’s. Ticket sales will benefit Ogunquit Performing Arts.
Online sales will be handled by Jonathan’s at www.jonathansogunquit.com or tickets may be purchased at the door.
Anna & Bill Spiller
Final Concert for Musical Director Wendell Purrington
YORK -
Seacoast Community Chorus’ beloved Musical Director Wendell Purrington raises his baton for the final time, concluding a remarkable 33-year tenure as conductor of the choir.
The chorus will mark his legacy with a celebratory concert featuring a selection of cherished American songs chosen by Purrington, many of which have in-
~ Arts & Entertainment ~ Heron Cove Chapel
spired audiences during pivotal moments in U.S. history. He will be joined by collaborative pianist Terrie Ilaria, who is also making her final performance with the chorus.
The concert will take place Sunday, May 17, at 3 p.m. at York First Parish Church, 180 York St., York. Tickets are $15 in advance or $20 at the door. For more information, visit www.
sccsings.org.
Raffle tickets are available for a chance to win two handturned wooden bowls crafted by Seacoast Community Chorus member David Adams. Tickets are $10 each or three for $20 and can be purchased with cash, check or Venmo at the concert.
The drawing will be held on May 17. More details are available at www.sccsings.org/raffle.
Barn Gallery Opens for 2026 Season
OGUNQUITBarn Gallery, home of the Ogunquit Art Association (OAA), will open for its 2026 season on May 20. The season will include four rotating exhibition cycles, a new artist-member jury, the 72nd annual OAA Art Auction, and a full schedule of artist demonstrations and workshops.
cycles, solo showcases, a juried open show, the annual auction and ongoing demonstrations and workshops.
The 72nd annual OAA Art Auction will run July 29–Aug. 1, with the live auction set for Aug. 1 at 7 p.m. Doors open at 6 p.m. Proceeds support OAA exhibitions, educational programming and gallery operations.
The season opens with exhibitions May 20–June 20, featuring OAA member work and invited New England sculptors. Solo presentations include Nancy R. Davison (printmaking) and Madeleine Hopkins (painting), with a reception May 23.
The Ogunquit Art Association, established in 1928, is Maine’s original artists’ group and traces its lineage to the historic Ogunquit Art Colony. Barn Gallery serves as its permanent home and primary exhibition space, drawing visitors from across New England and the Eastern Seaboard each summer.
“The 2026 season at Barn Gallery reflects everything the Ogunquit Art Association has stood for since 1928—evocative work, vibrant educational programming and a passionate community,” said Deidre O’Flaherty, president of the Ogunquit Arts Collaborative. “Whatever brings you through the door, you’ll leave having been part of something that has mattered here for a very long time.”
The season runs from the Student Art Show in early May through the final fall exhibitions in October, with four exhibition
The June 24–July 25 cycle includes OAA member work, invited sculptors, and the Open Regional Juried Show. This year’s juror is Posey (Pamela Moulton), a Maine-based environmental artist known for large-scale installations made from salvaged materials and exhibited widely in the United States and internationally. A reception will be held June 27.
Late summer exhibitions run Aug. 5–Sept. 5 and feature work by Amy Hagberg (photography) and Carol MacLeod (photography and painting), with a reception Aug. 15.
The fall cycle runs Sept. 9–Oct. 12 and includes work by Charles Laurier Dufour (photography) and Annie Lemieux (photography), with a reception Sept. 12.
The OAA will also reopen its new member jury process, with applications due June 1. For the first time since 2024, submissions will be accepted in painting, graphics, sculpture, photography and mixed media.
Artist demonstrations and workshops will run throughout the season, covering plein air painting, printmaking, watercolor and still life. Demonstrations are free, while workshops cost $75 plus materials and require preregistration.
Barn Gallery is located at 3 Hartwig Ln., Ogunquit. For more information, visit www.barngallery.org or call 207-646-8400.
BOSTON -
~ Library & News ~ Health & Fitness
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced the availability of approximately $80 million through its Sewer Overflow and Stormwater Reuse Municipal Grant program to help communities address stormwater and sewer infrastructure needs. The grants aim to strengthen systems that safely capture and manage stormwater, helping prevent contaminants—including untreated sewage—from polluting nearby waterways. Maine is slated to receive a total of $468,000 in funding from both fiscal years 2025 and 2026, which will be awarded to communities within the state.
“Stormwater and sewage systems are critical for managing pollution to keep our nation’s waterways clean and support healthy people, economic growth, and thriving ecosystems,” said EPA Assistant Administrator for Water Jess Kramer. “This $80 million investment will help states upgrade stormwater management systems to address the threat of aging and inadequate infrastructure.”
“New England has some of the oldest infrastructure in the country, and this funding will help our communities make the necessary improvements to reduce overflows and protect the waterways that families and businesses rely on each and
Maple Ridge Private Nursing & Wellness Opens in York County
SANFORD -
The Sanford-Springvale Chamber of Commerce recently hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the opening of Maple Ridge Private Nursing & Wellness. The Sanford-based company provides nurse-led in-home and virtual care for adults throughout Southern Maine and Strafford County, New Hampshire.
every day,” said EPA Regional Administrator Mark Sanborn. “Clean water is essential to a healthy economy and strong communities, and EPA is working with our state and local partners to deliver cost-effective solutions that protect human health and the environment and make the most of American taxpayer dollars.”
Stormwater can be a significant source of water pollution and a public health concern. It can collect various pollutants, including trash, chemicals, oils, and sediment, and carry them to nearby waterways. When combined with domestic and industrial wastewater in combined sewers, stormwater can also contribute to combined sewer overflows during heavy storms.
Owner Paula Roy, DNP, RN, has more than 22 years of experience in nursing, leadership, education, and community service. Roy believes that clients are not just patients, but partners in their own wellness journeys. Each visit is guided by nursing expertise, open communication, and genuine compassion. For more information, visit www.mapleridgenursing.care/ about-us.
STATEWIDE -
AARP Maine is seeking nominations for its 2026 AARP Andrus Award for Community Service, which honors individuals 50 and older who share their experience, talent, and skills to enrich the lives of others in their community. The annual award is named for AARP founder Dr. Ethel Percy Andrus, who established AARP in 1958 at the age of 73. The nomination deadline is July 15.
of volunteer service to impact positive social change.”
Safely and effectively managing stormwater to reduce pollution before it reaches local waterways is essential. However, the cost of constructing, operating, and maintaining stormwater infrastructure can be significant, placing a strain on wastewater systems and their customers, particularly in small or financially distressed communities. The EPA’s Sewer Overflow and Stormwater Reuse Municipal Grant program will prioritize projects in these communities. Under existing regulations, state grantees are not required to provide cost shares for projects located in small or financially distressed areas.
“AARP Maine is excited to shine a light on Mainers 50plus who are using what they’ve learned to make a difference in the lives of those around them,” said Noël Bonam, AARP Maine state director. “AARP has long valued the spirit of volunteerism, and the important contributions AARP volunteers make to their communities and neighbors.”
To be eligible, nominees must be 50 or older, though they do not need to be an AARP member or volunteer with AARP. The accomplishments or service on which nominations are based must have been performed on a volunteer basis, without pay, and must reflect AARP’s vision and mission. Couples or partners who perform service together are eligible, but teams are not. Recipients must live in the awarding state, and the award is not given posthumously.
For more information and to nominate, visit www.surveymonkey.com/r/ ANDRUS_AWARD.
Nominees will be reviewed by a panel of AARP staff and volunteers, who will consider a range of criteria, including each nominee’s positive impact on the community and on the lives of individuals aged 50 and older.
André Chassé, current AARP Maine volunteer state president, said, “The AARP Maine Andrus Award acts as a symbol to our members and to the public of the importance
The EPA’s fiscal year 2025 and 2026 allotments for the Sewer Overflow and Stormwater Reuse Municipal Grant program in New England total $6.65 million. Connecticut is slated to receive $1.54 million,
Massachusetts $2.93 million, New Hampshire $648,000, Maine $468,000, Rhode Island $604,000, and Vermont $464,000.
For more information, visit www.epa.gov/aboutepa/eparegion-1-new-england.
AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the 125 million Americans 50 and older and their families, including health and financial security and personal fulfillment. AARP also works in the marketplace by promoting carefully chosen, high-quality products and services that carry the AARP name. As a trusted source for news and information, AARP publishes the nation’s largest-circulation publications, AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. For more information, visit www.aarp.org or follow across social media.
thenewschoolmaine.org/springfever-fest-may-16.
Welcome Back, Snowbirds
1-3 p.m. at Congregational Church of Wells, 1695 Post Rd. Live music on the front lawn. Bring a lawn chair. Refreshments provided. Rain date: June 6. FMI: uccwells@ wellscongregational.org or 207910-6033.
Lobster Bake
1-6 p.m. at American Legion Post 56, 647 Rte. 1, Meadow Brook Plaza, York. Twin lobsters $30; Fried chicken, $15. Eat in or take out. Tickets are limited and must be purchased in advance. FMI: www.ramsdellrogers.56.com or 207-363-0376.
Turkey Supper To Go
4-5 p.m. at First Parish Federated Church, 150 Main St., South Berwick. Monthly take-out only turkey supper with all of the fi xings. First come, fi rst-served. $12, cash or local check only. Pick up in the church parking lot off Academy Street. This month’s partner is North Berwick Historical Society. FMI: fpfc.org@gmail.com or 207384-4091.
St. George’s Church Celebrates 75 Years 4-7 p.m. at St George’s Episcopal Church, 407 York St., York. Open reception with food and music, church gallery showcasing the parish’s history through art and objects. Free and open to the public. FMI: www.stgeorgesyorkharbor.org.
Sunday, May 17
Birding Walk
8 a.m. at Orris Falls Conservation Area, 551 Emery’s Bridge Rd, South Berwick. All hikes/events are open to the public and free of charge to Great Works Regional Land Trust members. $5/person or $10/family suggested for nonmembers. Registration required. FMI: www.gwrlt.org.
Kittery Land Trust Plant Sale 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. at Nooney Farm, 22 Stevenson Rd., Kittery. Gardeners can shop for all their plant needs while supporting a great cause. Vegetables, herbs, fl owers, perennials, and more. Locallysourced organic compost by Mr. Fox Composting, blight-resistant chestnuts by American Chestnut Foundation. Proceeds benefit Kittery Land Trust. FMI: www.kitterylandtrust.org or 207-439-8989.
The Half-Written Play 2-4 p.m. at the Wells Reserve at Laudholm, 342 Laudholm Farm Rd., Wells. Participants explore how communities can better collaborate on local climate change mitigation policies. Created by University of New Hampshire’s PowerPLAY, “The Half-Written Play” follows citizens grappling with a divisive fl ooding policy decision. At the play’s midpoint, the audience takes charge to help shape the ending. Free with site admission. FMI and to register: www.wellsreserve.org/calendar or 207-646-1555.
Monday, May 18
York County Republican Women’s Club 6-8 p.m. at the Seacoast Republican Headquarters, 99 York St. (Rte. 1), For all area Republican women. FMI: ycgopwomen. ycrwc@gmail.com or 207-4682395.
Tuesday, May 19
An Extraordinary Bird: The Purple Martin
~ Home & Business Services ~
heated. This barrier helps contain the fire if it starts to spread.
Maintain Constant Supervision
A lit fire pit must remain under constant supervision. This is not only crucial in the presence of children or vulnerable adults, but also to ensure the fire remains under control. Sparks can land on dry grass or be carried by the wind, posing a fire hazard.
Ideally, the person monitoring the fire should abstain from consuming alcohol. If they need to step away, a responsible individual should take over.
Keep Fire Extinguishing Tools
Nearby
While enjoying the warmth and ambiance of a fire pit, always have a method of extinguishing the fire close at hand. What to use depends on the fuel source— wood, gas, or otherwise. A bucket of water, a container of sand, or a fire extinguisher are effective op-
tions. A fire blanket is also useful in case of emergencies.
Anyone using a fire extinguisher should read and understand the instructions in advance. Attempting to figure out how it works during a fire can waste valuable time.
Avoid Flammable Liquids
Like barbecues, woodburning fire pits can be difficult to ignite. In such cases, it may be tempting to use accelerants like lighter fluid or gasoline, but doing so can be extremely dangerous. Flammable liquids can quickly cause fires to spiral out of control.
Instead, use firelighters, crumpled newspaper under kilndried kindling to start the fire.
Before using the fire pit for a gathering, practice lighting it safely to avoid pressure during the event.
Know Local Regulations
In most areas, fire pits are permitted, but smoke-controlled zones may require smokeless models that run on propane or ethanol. Those living in large
~ News ~
cities are more likely to face such restrictions.
Be mindful of neighbors as well, as smoke spreading from a fire pit can be a nuisance to the neighborhood. As a courtesy, inform nearby residents in advance, especially if they plan to use their garden or have laundry hanging outside.
Check the Weather
Always check the weather forecast before lighting a fire. Windy conditions can blow embers into surrounding areas, potentially starting fires on neighboring properties. Wind also disperses smoke, which can create visibility hazards near roads or cause discomfort to others.
During dry spells, the risk of wildfires increases. Local authorities may issue temporary bans on outdoor fires when air quality is poor.
Use the Right Fuel
Choosing the right fuel protects the fire pit and helps control the fire effectively. Kiln-dried
hardwood is ideal for wood-burning fire pits. It has low moisture content, burns efficiently, produces less smoke, and generates more heat.
Softwood, on the other hand, contains more moisture and resin. It burns less efficiently, produces more smoke and creates more sparks, increasing fire risk.
Put It Out Properly
Safely extinguishing the fire is essential. Never leave a fire to burn out unattended. Embers can stay hot and reignite even after the flames die down.
To ensure the fire is fully out, transfer the ashes to a fireproof container. Alternatively, cover the fire with sand or pour water over the ashes until they are completely cold and no embers remain.
Article privided by Harry Bodell for PriceYourJob.co.uk.
The Weekly Sentinel does not endorse any products or services suggested by articles from thirdparty articles.
from page 5
time. To ensure all waiting pets are seen, the line will close at 11:30 a.m.
All pets must be leashed or in a secure carrier. Pets receiving a three-year vaccine must bring their previous rabies certificate or veterinary records. Otherwise, pets will receive a one-year vaccine.
“We want every pet in this community to be protected— and every family to have peace of mind. That’s why we’re bringing this clinic directly to Kennebunk, free of charge,” said Heidi Marsten, executive director of the Animal Welfare Society. “We encourage everyone to come early; the line closes at 11:30 and supplies are limited, so we don’t want any pet to miss out.”
For more information and to RSVP, visit www.animalwelfaresociety.org or call 207-2922424.
~ Sports & Outdoors ~
Ogunquit Earns Bronze Bicycle Friendly Community Recognition
OGUNQUIT-
Ogunquit has been recognized as a Bronze Level Bicycle Friendly Community by the League of American Bicyclists. The designation reflects the town’s efforts to create a safer, more accessible environment for people who bike.
The Ogunquit Bicycle and Pedestrian Committee, which applied for the award, includes Charley LaFlamme, chair; Michele Picard, vice chair; Bruce Byorkman, secretary; John Cavaretta; Marjorie Katz; and
BA Boys Lacrosse Falls to Hebron
HEBRON -
Berwick Academy boys
lacrosse concluded its regular season with a 14-6 loss at Hebron Academy on Monday, May 11. The defeat leaves Berwick with a 7-7 record for the season.
Leading scorers for Berwick were Ebbin Perkins with two goals and two assists, and Liam Quinn, Reed Kenney, Preston Randall, and Cole Cournoyer, each with one goal. Goalie Landon Vivathana made 15 saves.
Berwick is scheduled to compete in the first round of the McCoy Cup next week. Tournament seeding will be announced later this week.
Ramsey Lafayette. The committee said the recognition highlights the town’s commitment to a best-in-class transportation system that serves residents and visitors alike.
“Building better places to bike is a shared effort,” said Bill Nesper, executive director of the League of American Bicyclists.
“The communities recognized are part of a growing national movement, taking practical steps
Marshwood Baseball Updates
Marshwood Hawks Beat Deering at Hadlock Field PORTLAND-
Marshwood varsity baseball earned its first victory of the 2026 season with a 4-1 win over Deering High School on Monday, May 11, at Hadlock Field. The game had been rescheduled from Saturday, May 9, due to weather. First pitch was at 5:30 p.m.
Junior left-handed starting pitcher Sam Therrien delivered a near-complete game, allowing one run over six innings while striking out nine. Brady
Berwick Academy
Baseball
May 11, (W) vs. Beaver Country Day, 13-1.
May 9, (W) vs. Wheeler, 10-0.
May 8, (W) vs. Lexington Christian, 10-0.
Kennebunk High School
Baseball
May 12, (L) vs. Cheverus, 2-5.
May 8, (L) vs. Gorham, 0-13. May 7, (W) vs. Westbrook, 10-0.
Softball
May 12, (L) vs. Westbrook, 1-10. May 11, (L) vs. Bonny Eagle, 1-7.
May 8, (L) vs. Biddeford, 4-14.
Boys Lacrosse
May 6, (W) vs. Westbrook, 14-3.
May 4, (W) vs. Biddeford, 20-4.
Girls Lacrosse
May 8, (W) vs. Gorham, 13-4.
Marshwood High School
Baseball
Isabelle, a senior third baseman and closer, finished the game by pitching the bottom of the seventh and recording three strikeouts for the save.
Offensively, junior catcher Ryder Webber went 2-for-3 with two RBIs and one run scored. Isabelle added two runs scored on 2-for-3 hitting, and junior center fielder Gavin Villineau went 3-for-4 with two RBIs.
Marshwood Hawks
Fall to Gorham
GORHAMMarshwood High School
May 12, (L) vs. Gorham, 1-8.
May 11, (W) vs. Deering, 4-1.
May 7, (L) vs. Bonny Eagle, 1-4.
Softball
May 11, (L) vs. Biddeford, 6-7.
May 7, (L) vs. Westbrook, 2-12.
Boys Lacrosse
May 9, (W) vs. Noble, 19-8.
May 6, (W) vs. Windham, 8-6.
Girls Lacrosse
May 8, (W) vs. Sanford, 16-2.
Noble High School
Baseball
May 12, (W) vs. Windham, 12-2.
May 9, (L) vs. Falmouth, 8-10.
May 7, (W) vs. Sanford, 15-2.
Softball
May 8, (L) vs. South Portland, 1-13.
May 6, (L) vs. Scarborough, 2-12.
May 4, (W) vs. Sanford, 15-4.
Boys Lacrosse
May 12, (W) vs. Westbrook, 17-5.
May 9, (L) vs. Marshwood, 8-19.
May 8, (W) vs. Traip, 17-3.
May 5, (L) vs. Falmouth, 5-18.
Girls Lacrosse
May 11, (L) vs. Waynflete, 3-13.
May 5, (L) vs. Traip, 4-13.
Traip Academy
Baseball
May 8, (L) vs. Richmond, 0-11.
May 7, (L) vs. Waynflete, 1-10.
Boys Lacrosse
May 8, (L) vs. Noble, 3-17.
May 6, (L) vs. Westbrook, 3-18.
May 5, (L) vs. Lake Region, 8-15.
Girls Lacrosse
May 9, (W) vs. Lincoln, 14-0.
May 7, (L) vs. Wells, 3-12.
May 5, (W) vs. Noble, 13-4.
Wells High School
Baseball
May 11, (W) vs. Old Orchard
Beach, 10-0.
May 8, (W) vs. Greely, 15-3.
May 6, (W) vs. Poland, 4-1.
Softball
May 11, (L) vs. Old Orchard
varsity baseball struggled offensively in an 8-1 loss to first-place Gorham High School on Tuesday, May 12.
Gorham scored four runs in the bottom of the first inning, setting the tone for the rest of the game. Marshwood battled throughout, including a basesloaded opportunity in the sixth inning, but could not generate a run until junior shortstop Sam Gennaro drove in the team’s lone run in the seventh. Gennaro finished the game 2-for-4 with one RBI.
The defeat drops Marshwood’s record to 1-7, while Gorham improves to 6-1.
Beach, 3-13.
May 8, (L) vs. Greely, 2-14.
May 6, (L) vs. Poland, 0-20.
Boys Lacrosse
May 11, (L) vs. Gray-New Gloucester, 6-8.
May 9, (W) vs. Mt. Ararat, 10-5.
May 5, (L) vs. Fryeburg, 5-10.
Girls Lacrosse
May 7, (W) vs. Traip, 12-3.
York High School
Baseball
May 11, (W) vs. Freeport, 5-4.
May 9, (L) vs. Cape Elizabeth, 2-5.
May 6, (L) vs. Fryeburg, 7-9.
Softball
May 11, (W) vs. Freeport, 10-3.
May 6, (W) vs. Fryeburg, 7-6.
Boys Lacrosse
May 7, (L) vs. Falmouth, 3-15.
Girls Lacrosse
May 5, (L) vs. Freeport, 6-11.
Scores from www.maxpreps.com.
THE BLUE BISTRO
Our Outdoor Patio is Open
Enjoy our deck with ocean views and cozy firepit tables. Friday Nights: Prime Rib Special Includes soup or salad and a 14 oz. cut of prime rib with roasted red potatoes and grilled asparagus for $48. This special expires on May 22 – be sure not to miss it! on the ocean
~ Dining ~
...BERWICK from page 12
Boisvert has been instrumental in guiding Berwick’s Winter Farmers Market since its inception. As the current president of the Farmers Market board, she has led fundraising efforts for the increasingly popular event. This year marks the market’s 11th season, and the April market welcomed more than 850 attendees.
~ Classifieds & News ~
Capping off the evening, Maine Rep. Thomas Lavigne presented Boisvert with a Legislative Sentiment, an official record passed by the Senate and House of Representatives recognizing her achievements, much to her surprise and delight.
Berwick Communications and Media filmed the entire event. The video will soon be available at www.berwickmaine. gov.
Thurrell Road, South Berwick
Radial arm saw, almost new bikes, household items • Rain date: 5/23
NEIGHBORHOOD
YARD SALE
50 Darcy Road, York, and area. Saturday, May 23 at 8 a.m. No early birds please! • Many portable A/C units like new, Nugget play couch pieces, ceiling fan, wood slat blinds, 17 ft. Necky kayak, table and chairs, large interlocking floor mats, and more!
HELP WANTED
CAREGIVER NEEDED
Saturday and Sunday mornings 8am-12pm in South Berwick for wheelchair-bound woman needing help transferring and with personal care. Call 973-452-6440 for details.
CLEANING PERSON
WANTED:
First floor for 1 person and 1 cat every two weeks! Call anytime: 207-337-1111 or 207-439-4715 Near Kittery / Eliot Line
Caring, gentle, reliable, liberal person WANTED TO PROVIDE ASSISTANCE with activities of daily living for a disabled man in Wells. This is a flexible part-time role, 10-20 hours per week. Duties include shopping and running errands, meal prep, light housekeeping, laundry, dog-walking, assistance with dressing and grooming, etc. No previous experience required –just a kind heart, reliability, and a willingness to help. Training will be provided. Compensation commensurate with experience. Arrangements might include room and board if desired. Applicants must be at least 18 years old, be a non-smoker, and have a valid driver’s license. Send resume and inquiries to rockyacresogt@gmail.com.
SUNDAY SCHOOL TEACHER IN YORK
First Parish Church seeks Sunday School teacher for multi-age class (PreK - 4th grade). Lead lessons, crafts, and activities using provided curriculum. ~3 hrs/wk (Sun 9:30-11:30, plus prep). $30/hr. Must be 18+ with experience working with children. Contact Melissa Vetter at 207-363-3758 or manager@firstparishyork.net
CASHIER & STOCK PERSON
Part-time or full-time. Starting pay $17/hour, increased based on experience. Inquire within preferred at Ogunquit Trading Post 10,000 Gifts, 97 Post Road, Moody, ME 04054. FMI: Call 207-646-5654 or email clogan1@maine.rr.com.
We are booking up and looking for one *EXPERIENCED* HOUSEKEEPER to join our team here at The Lynwood Inn in York, just above Short Sands Beach. 9am-5pm. Verifiable resume mandatory. Call Innkeeper at 207-363-6443. Thank you!
Landscaping in Wells is hiring seasonal LANDSCAPE LABORERS. Competitive pay, based upon experience. Landscaping and hardscaping, Monday-Friday 7:30am-4:00pm.
Resumes and contact:
Kim Gogan at 207-752-4550 or kim@goganlandscaping.com. www.GoganLandscaping.com
Maintenance Person
foxglovecleaningco@gmail.com SHIRLEY’S CLEANING For a spotless home. Trustworthy and dependable. 207-439-1363
ANTIQUES & MOST ANYTHING OLD I come to you with cash. Call Will: 207-838-0790.
I buy collections of recorded media and memorabilia. Call 603-918-8555 or email jpraineyrecords@gmail.com.
We are preparing for a busy summer here at Johnson’s and are looking for some fun-loving individuals to join our crew. No experience
...BICYCLE from page 24
to support bicycling as a safe, accessible, and valuable part of everyday life.”
The Bronze Level award acknowledges Ogunquit’s work on bike education programs, community bike events, pro-bike
~ Classifieds & News ~
policies, and bike in frastructure. According to the town, residents are biking more than ever for commuting, errands, and recreation.
“Receiving the Bike Friendly Community recognition is a result of long-term efforts and dedication of our Bicycle Pedestrian Committee,” said Michael
LEGAL & PUBLIC NOTICES
Town of Kittery: Notice of Public Hearing
The Kittery Planning Board will hold a public hearing on May 28, 2026 at 6 PM in Kittery Town Hall Council Chambers, 200 Rogers Road, Kittery, to discuss amendments to Title 16 establishing a 30-day appeal period for final decisions of the Planning Board, Board of Appeals, and Kittery Port Authority to conform with State law. Hybrid participation is available via Zoom. To review or submit comments or questions about these amendments, or to obtain the Zoom link, please visit Town Hall during business hours or contact Jason Garnham at jgarnham@kitteryme.org or 207-475-1307.
Town of
Kittery: Notice of Public Hearing
Pursuant to §16.4 Land Use Regulations and §16.7 Site Plan Review of the Town of Kittery Land Use and Development Code, the Kittery Planning Board shall hold a public hearing on May 28, 2026, at 6 PM in Council Chambers, 200 Rogers Road, Kittery.
Robert Adams, on behalf of owner/applicant The Town of Kittery, is proposing exterior renovations to the Kittery Community Center, located on the property of 120 Rogers Road, Map 15, Lot 91, in the Residential Urban Zone.
To review or submit comments or questions, please visit Town Hall during normal business hours or contact Max Zakian at mzakian@kitteryme.org or 207-4751323. To request reasonable accommodation for this meeting, please call staff at 207-475-1323.
TOWN OF BERWICK - PUBLIC NOTICE
The Berwick Planning Board will hold a Site Walk & Public Hearing on a proposed Mini-Storage & Storage and/or Maintenance Facility; submitted by Hampton River Rentals, LLC; located at 420 School Street (Map R54, Lot 15, Zone R3). The Site Walk is open to the public. This is an informational visit only. No testimony will be taken, and no votes or deliberations will take place.
Please contact the department with any questions at jbellissimo@ berwickmaine.gov or 207-698-1101 ext. 125. More information can be found in the May 7, 2026 Packet found at www.berwickmaine.gov/planning.
SITE WALK: PUBLIC HEARING:
Date: Thursday, June 4, 2026 Date: Thursday, June 4, 2026 Time: 4:30 p.m. Time: 6:30 p.m. Place: 420 School Street Place: Berwick Town Hall, Burgess Meeting Room
TOWN OF BERWICK FINDINGS AND ORDER Pursuant to 17 M.R.S.A. §§ 2851-2859
TO: Linda N. Downing Great Plains National Bank Berwick Estates 6701 Broadway Ext, Ste. 401 79 Portland Street Oklahoma City, OK 73116 South Berwick, ME 03908
Rodney N. Downing Freedom Mortgage Corporation 17 Riley’s Run 951 Yamato Road, Ste. 175 Berwick, ME 03901 Boca Raton, FL 33431
On April 21, 2026 at 6:30 p.m. at Berwick Town Hall, the Select Board held a hearing to determine whether the building owned by you at 17 Riley’s Run and shown on Map R67, Lot 6-8 of the current Tax Maps of the Town of Berwick is dangerous or a nuisance within the meaning of 17 M.R.S.A. § 2851. Notice of this hearing was duly served on you as the owner and on all parties in interest and/or published in the newspaper in accordance with 17 M.R.S.A. § 2857.
A. The following persons were present at the hearing and testified: Terry Wilson, CEO; John Ney of Brock and Scott representing mortgage holder; Mark Davis, neighbor; Richard Hopley, neighbor; Jennifer Woodward (sp), neighbor.
B. The following evidence was presented to the Select Board·and is part of the record:
Photos of the property and testimony to the Board, summarized as follows: A fire occurred on the property on Sunday, March 1, 2026. The Town Code Enforcement Officer (“CEO”) went to the property on March 2. The CEO testified that the building is a total lost, because it was heavily damaged by fire and contains significant water damage. The back of the roof is gone and the house is unstable. There is debris on the ground from the fire department activity and the fire, which has made the property unsafe. People have been coming and going from the property, despite the dangerous condition. One of the residents of the building (who is not the owner) was given a three day period to access the building to retrieve personal items. The CEO secured the building on March 16. In addition to debris from the fire, there are three unregistered vehicles on the properly, including one vehicle that was placed on blocks after the fire. Concerns were expressed regarding general access to the property and the potential for tent camping, in light of the dangerous condition of the building and the fact that the properyy is not fenced.
C. Based on testimony and the evidence presented and made part of the record, the Select Board finds the following facts:
A fire occurred in the building on March 1, 2026 and as a result, the current condition of the building is as follows:
1. The building is unstable and part of the roof is missing.
2. The building is uninhabitable.
3. There are no functioning utilities in the building.
Collins, Ogunquit Select Board chair. “The Town of Ogunquit is proud to support alternative transportation options that reduce congestion and help our environment.”
Ogunquit is now among 444 communities across the United States recognized as Bicycle Friendly Communities.
For more information, visit www.bikeleague.org/community or search Ogunquit Bike/Ped Committee on Facebook.
LEGAL & PUBLIC NOTICES
YORK PLANNING BOARD
MEETING
AGENDA
Town of York, Maine
TIME: Thursday, May 28, 2026 at 7:00 PM
PLACE: York Public Library, 15 Long Sands Road, York
1. Call to Order; Determination of Quorum; Appointment of Alternates
2. Field Changes
3. Public Forum
4. Application Reviews
A. 39 Main Street – Sketch Plan, 7:05-7:45 PM. Map/ Lot 0023-0083, owned by Walter Woods. This sketch plan application proposes three duplexes for a total of six dwelling units within the Greenway District. (CD-4).
B. Tropic Star Development, 834 US Route 1 – Final Site Plan, 8:00-9:00 PM. Map/Lot 0094-0019, owned by Iduna Realty, LLC. This application seeks preliminary approval to construct a 5,050 ft, 2 retail, motor fuel outlet and convenience store in the commercial use category (RT 1-3).
C. York River Landscaping Landscape Company, 272 US Route 1 – Final Site Plan, 9:05-10:05 PM. Map/Lot 0059-0019, owned by 18 York Street Realty, LLC. The goal of this application is to improve the existing 1.02-acre lot fronting US Route 1. Changes to the site include the grading and resurfacing of the gravel parking area, a reduction in impervious area, shed removal, and overall site clean-up.
5. Other Business
6. Minutes
7. Adjourn – All meetings shall be adjourned no later than 10:30 PM, unless extended by unanimous consent of the Board.
4. The building and the property are unsafe.
5. There is significant debris on the property from the fire.
6. The condition of the building has made the entire property unsafe and should be posted against occupancy and access.
7. The building is a total loss.
D. Based on the foregoing findings, the Select Board concludes that the building/structure is dangerous or a nuisance because:
Due to a significant fire that occurred on March 1, 2026, the building is structurally unsafe, unstable, and unsanitary; constitutes a fire hazard; is unsuitable or improper for the use or occupancy to which it is put; constitutes a hazard to health or safety because of inadequate maintenance, dilapidation, obsolescence or abandonment; and the entire property is dangerous to life or property.
E. Therefore, pursuant to 17 M.R.S.A. § 2851, you are hereby ORDERED to: No later than MAY 19, 2026, make arrangements to have the building demolished as soon as possible. Contact the Code Enforcement Office no later than MAY 1, 2026 to inform the Office of the arrangements that have been made for the demolition. You must provide the CEO with evidence that a reputable and insured company has been hired to demolish the building. The building must be demolished no later than JUNE 19, 2026, provided, however the town may consider an extension if you are pursuing demolition in good faith and demolition occurs no later than JULY 19, 2026. If there are personal items in the building that you plan to remove before demolition, you must schedule that in advance with the Town and you must be accompanied by a representative from the Town in order to access the building and remove said items. In addition, the demolition must be supervised by a third-party representative of the Town and you shall reimburse the Town for the cost of said third party.
This decision may be appealed to the Superior Court under the Maine Rules of Civil Procedure, Rule 80B.
If you fail to meet the above deadlines and/or fail to demolish the building by June 19, 2026 (or later deadline if an extension is issued by the Town), and no timely appeal is taken, the Town may demolish the building at the Town’s expense and recover all expenses, including reasonable attorney’s fees, by means of a special tax or civil action.
/sig/ Linda Hutchins-Corliss
Select Board Vice Chair STATE OF MAINE York, ss.
...TALK from page 13
the 2024 McKnight Visual Artist Fellowship. Gim is based in Minneapolis, MN.
Sharmistha Ray (they/ them) is a visual artist and Estella Loomis McCandless Assistant Professor of Art at Carnegie Mellon University. Their work uses abstraction to explore imagery drawn from Hindu and Buddhist cosmologies, South Asian crafts, sacred architecture, and queer futurity. Primarily a painter and drawer, Ray also works in sculpture, artist books, and animation.
They co-founded the spiritualist feminist art collective Hilma’s Ghost, a collaborative platform for research, artistic production, pedagogy, and community engagement. Ray’s work has been shown internationally at venues including the Guggenheim Museum (New York), Museu de Arte de São Paulo (Brazil), Palm Springs Art Museum (California), Museum of Contemporary Art (Tucson, Arizona), and Galería RGR (Mexico City), among others. Public projects include a permanent 600-square-foot glass mosaic installed in New York’s Grand Central Station.
In the months ahead, Surf Point will offer a variety of public programs, including rare opportunities to meet nationally recognized artists and arts professionals, explore the land and ocean, and engage with the archives of co-founders Beverly Hallam and Mary-Leigh Smart.
Additional Meet the Residents events are scheduled for July, October and November. A full list of Surf Point’s programs and artist residencies is available at www.surfpoint.me.
Surf Point is a nonprofit organization on the York coast, supporting diverse visual artists and art workers through a residency program, stewarding 45 acres of coastal and forested land, hosting public programs, and promoting research on its historic legacy.
The York Public Library is located at 15 Long Sands Rd. For more information and to register for the artist talk, visit https:// yorkpl.librarycalendar.com/ event/surf-point-artist-talk-19153.
&
Legal Notice to Corporators of Partners Bank, FKA SIS Bancorp, MHC
Dated: 4/22/2026
4/22/2026
Personally appeared before me the above-named Linda Hutchins-Corliss, acknowledging the foregoing instrument to be her free act and deed.
/sig/ Lory Faucher
Notary Public, State of Maine My commission expires 12/01/2031
The annual meeting of the Corporators of SIS Bancorp, MHC, Sanford, Maine will take place at The Red Barn at Outlook Farm, 310 Portland St., South Berwick, ME on Tuesday, May 19, 2026 at 4:00 p.m. for the election of the Directors, the election of Corporators, and for the transaction of any other business that may be legally presented.
FINANCE & CAREER
Habitat for Humanity Extends Application Period
SANFORD -
Habitat for Humanity York County has extended the application deadline to May 22, for Phase I of its upcoming affordable homeownership development in Sanford, giving more residents and workers in York County the opportunity to apply. A dropin information session, with a chance to meet one of the program’s newest homeowners, is scheduled for Saturday, May 16, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Goodall Library, 952 Main St.
The public is invited to attend the session to learn firsthand about the experience of partnering with Habitat for Humanity York County to build and purchase a new home.
“Seeing the pride in our four-year-old reminds us every day that this experience has changed our lives, and we will carry that gratitude with us always,” said homeownership partner April, who spoke at Habitat’s last information event.
At the session, attendees will learn how Habitat’s affordable homeownership model makes it possible to purchase a home with manageable monthly payments while gaining the security
and opportunities that come with owning rather than renting. The event is part of Habitat York County’s ongoing effort to support applicants for the first two of five homes planned in the Island Avenue development. Through the program, qualified applicants can purchase a new, energy-efficient home featuring heat pumps, stainless-steel appliances, and full basements. Monthly mortgage payments are capped at 29–30% of household income and may be as low as $1,250.
For more information and to start an application, visit www.habitatyorkcounty.org/ homeownership. Application packets are also available at Goodall Library and at the Sanford Kennebunk Savings Bank branch, 1314 Main St.
ONLINE -
New Ventures Maine has announced free online workshops and classes for May. Classes are designed to help people in Maine start a business, build their career, and manage their money. The organization is a statewide education and economic development program administered through UMA/ University of Maine System.
My Money Works
Thursdays starting May 21, five sessions, 6-7 p.m. Gain the skills and confidence you need to stretch your money, pay your bills, reduce debt, save, plan for retirement, and set personal financial goals with a plan to achieve greater financial stability.
My Next Career Move
Tuesdays starting May 26, four sessions, 6-7 p.m. With
the weekly Zoom sessions of lively activities and discussion, you will assess your own skills, interests, and experiences to figure out what career options might be best, and then create an action plan to achieve success.
Job Search Workshops
Wednesdays, May 27–June 10, 6-7 p.m. Ready for a new job or a career change? Join one, two, or all three workshops: Job Search Strategies on May 27; Resume Strategies on June 3; Interview Strategies on June 10.
For more information and to register, visit bit.ly/NVMEClasses or call 800-442-2092 toll-free in Maine.
Contract
Country along the Arabian
Tree species
Pituitary gland secretion (abbr.)
“Partner” to groans
Jewish calendar month
Where wrestlers work
Egotistical
Potted plants
Containers 43. Large, flightless birds 45. Part of a book 46. American spies
Pancakes made of buckwheat flour
Swiss river
Disfigure
Have surgery
Formal withdrawal
Early English council
Area units
2,000 lbs.
61. Siskel and __
CLUES DOWN
1. Animal jaws 2. Small water buffalo
3. An appliance has one
Every 5. Largest English dictionary (abbr.)
6. Very skilled 7. No more than what is specified 8. Tire measurement
Towers
Forward
22. South Dakota
23. The complete duration of something 24. Kids love him 25. Singular
27. Cod genus
28. Mild yellow Dutch cheese
29. Resistance unit
30. Ancient kingdom near Dead
Cast out
60-minute periods
Most worn
European river
Atomic mass unit
39. Items of food
42. Body parts
43. Ireland
44. Partner to Pa 46. Sammy __, songwriter 47. Dutch settler
48. Full-grown pike fish
49. Sun or solar disk
50. Minute arachnid
51. From a distance
52. A monthly expense
53. Young women’s association 54. Brazilian state 55. Air freight provider 56. Pointed end of a pen
~ Real Estate ~
7-8 p.m. at Mather Auditorium at the Wells Reserve at Laudholm, 342 Laudholm Farm Rd., Wells, or via Zoom. The purple martin, North America’s largest swallow, has declined sharply across the East Coast, including a 95% drop in Maine over the past 50 years. Dr. Anna Forsman of York County Audubon discusses efforts to better understand the species’ decline. Free with admission. FMI and to register, and for Zoom link: www.wellsreserve.org/calendar or 207-646-1555.
Spring Choir Concert
7 p.m. at Hussey Theater, Noble High School, 100 Noble Way, North Berwick. Grades 9-12 spring choir concert. Free and open to the public. FMI: 207-676-2843.
Wednesday, May 20
Stewardship Workday:
Old Boston Preserve
9 a.m. at Old Boston Preserve, N Village Rd., Ogunquit. Join Great Works Regional Land Trust or an invasive species removal session. Registration required. FMI: www. gwrlt.org.
Flag Laying Ceremony
5 p.m. at Evergreen Cemetery, 55 Cemetery Rd., Berwick. The public is invited to join Charles S. Hatch Post #79 for a fl ag laying ceremony. New American flags will be placed on the gravestones of area veterans as a visible tribute to their service. Rain date: Thursday, May 21 at 5 p.m. FMI: www. berwickmelegionpost79.org.
Spring Choir & Band Concert
7 p.m. at Hussey Theater, Noble High School, 100 Noble Way, North Berwick. Grades 7 and 8 spring band and choir concert. Free and open to the public. FMI: 207-676-2843.
Thursday, May 21
Fuller Forest Preserve
Invasive Plant Pull
9 a.m. - 12 p.m. at Fuller Forest Preserve, 33-36 Bartlett Rd., York. Participants join York Land Trust to identify and remove two notoriously aggressive invasive plant species: barberry and burning bush. Registration required at www.yorklandtrust.org/event/fuller-forestpreserve-invasive-plant-pull.
Saturday, May 23
Memorial Weekend
Veterans Breakfast
8-9:30 a.m. at North Berwick American Legion, 21 Main St., North Berwick. For area veterans, their families, and the general public. Buffet includes eggs, bacon, sausage, pancakes, home fries, toast. Free, donations gratefully accepted. FMI: 207-459-0262.
Town of Kittery
Memorial Day Service
10 a.m. at Orchard Grove Cemetery, Kittery. Join friends and neighbors to honor our fallen heroes.
Annual Plant Sale
9 a.m. - 12 p.m. at North Berwick Congregational Church, 15 High St., Berwick. Proceeds to benefi t the women’s fellowship of North Berwick Congregational Church. FMI: 207-676-9063.
Opening Reception
4-7 p.m. at Barn Gallery, 3 Hartwig Ln., Ogunquit. Featuring the Ogunquit Art Association Members Show; printmaker Nancy R. Davison and painter Madeleine Hopkins; an expanded collectors gallery; plus Invited New England Sculptors exhibit in the outdoor sculpture court. Free and open to the public. FMI: www.barngallery. org.
~ Real Estate ~
Nestled at the end of a quiet town lane off Cider Hill Road, this
HOUSE SATURDAY, MAY 16 - 11:00AM - 1:00PM
GOWEN LANE, YORK $1,425,000 Set on a beautifully landscaped 2.03-acre parcel east of Route 1 in one of York’s most desirable neighborhoods, this impressive contemporary Colonial offers space, comfort, and an exceptional location just minutes to beaches, the harbor, golf, restaurants, and shopping. Recently refreshed with extensive interior and exterior painting, the home features an expansive wraparound farmer’s porch, open-concept kitchen and family room with fireplace, formal dining room, den with second fireplace, office, spacious primary suite, third-floor bonus space, full basement,
66 GRAHAM ST, BIDDEFORD - $699,000
Meticulous 1925 colonial on a double lot that offers town-approved potential for a future single-family or multi-unit build adds rare flexibility and value. Located in a walkable setting minutes from downtown and featuring hardwood floors, living room w/ fireplace, 3-season sunroom, 3 bedrooms, partial finished basement, 2-car garage, nearby parks & riverwalk. ASK ABI 207.252.1944
HOUSE SUNDAY, MAY 17 - 11:00AM - 1:00PM
This private 25-acre property is accessed by crossing West Brook, creating a secluded setting shared with only one neighboring home. Set back from the road offering rare privacy just minutes to town, Wells Beach, Dover, & Portland. The well-maintained ranch features an attached 2-car garage, updated kitchen, fireplace, cedar deck, generator, new roof and flexible lower-level space. CALL KAREN RICE 207.451.3990
CEDAR LANE, OGUNQUIT - $874,900
Tucked into a quiet and highly sought-after coastal neighborhood just minutes from the heart of Ogunquit Village, this classic mid-century two bedroom ranch offers charm, privacy, and endless potential. Surrounded by mature trees, vibrant perennials, and extensive gardens, the property creates a peaceful connection to nature. Inside, warm and inviting spaces are complemented by a versatile finished bonus area ideal for a home office, studio, or guest retreat. A relaxing 3-season porch overlooks serene woods and local wildlife. Adding even more flexibility, a detached heated workshop offers potential for conversion into an income-producing opportunity in one of the Seacoast’s most desirable locations.
Fort Island is a wooded, secluded islet in the Piscataqua surrounded by salt marsh, wildlife and sweeping river views, minutes by boat to Kittery, Portsmouth, and the open Atlantic. This rare offering is rich in Revolutionary War history. The private island is undeveloped offering potential for a seasonal retreat great for
Colonial situated off
Summer St offers a rare opportunity in the Kennebunks. This 4BR, 2.5BA home sits on a fully fenced 1-acre lot minutes to pristine beaches, Rachel Carson Refuge, and bustling Dock Square.A traditional layout w/ generous living spaces offers solid potential for updates. Ideal as a year-round home, coastal retreat, or investment.
