Staci Warren: Her Mainely Girl Adventures

Editor’s note: Staci Warren has joined The Windham Eagle to provide a unique woman’s perspective and column on the outdoors every month. She is a freelance writer whose blog, My Mainely Girl Adventures, is about a woman hunting, fishing, trapping, foraging and living in the Maine outdoors. She also loves camping, star gazing, wildlife watching, and hunting for fossils. She’s an active member and board member of the New England Outdoor Writers Association and is a monthly columnist and feature writer for The Maine Sportsman Magazine. In her free time, she enjoys mentoring women hunters and trappers.

By Staci Warren

Welcome to my first column as a writer for The Windham Eagle! I am a woman who is also a hunter, fisherman, forager, and trapper. I was not raised in a hunting family – my father owned five guns that were inherited and sat in the corner of my parents’ closet unused. I never understood the lure of hunting and in fact, could have easily been an anti-hunter had I not met my husband who basically lived and breathed hunting from the time he could hold a shotgun. I considered myself a hunting widow once deer season started and was annoyed with it by the end because while he was out hunting, i.e., having a good time, I was working full-time, caring for kids, the house and pets. I’m sure many women can relate.

Staci Warren with a nice native
brook trout caught by fly
fishing. SUBMITTED PHOTO 

As my kids got older, I was working a full-time job, attending college part-time and still doing all the stuff that moms do, but I actually felt like I had more time on my hands. We started camping in remote parts of Maine and took up fly fishing since the youngest of our children loves to fish. Fly fishing is now my preferred method, although striper fishing with quahogs is a lot of fun too. I hope to try fly fishing for striper soon.

At this time, the turkey hunting lottery also was established. In an effort to increase his chances of getting a permit, my husband asked me to apply. I had held a hunting license long before hunter safety courses were required, just to say I had one, so applying was easy. I ended up getting drawn for the permit. My husband, John, expecting he would be the one shooting, was surprised when I said, I’ll let you shoot if I can’t shoot your shotgun.” Well, I shot it easily, so the hunt was mine. I ended up bagging a turkey 25.5 pounds, just short of the then state record. Then deer season started. John agreed to take me. It required me shooting his .44 rifle and walking into a stand in the dark to get set up before deer started moving. I had never ventured far from home, so this was a big step for me, since I was scared of dark (terrified more like it), and of noises in the dark, so luckily my husband would walk me into my stand -he did that for about two years. I ended up shooting a five-point buck that year! From then on, I used hunting to challenge my fears and insecurities, and I could see the change in myself. I have grown much more confident and am proud of the woman I’ve become.

I began bear hunting in 2016, the same year as the bear referendum. I had helped schlep bait for a couple years for my husband and sons bait sites, but never actually hunted. By now, I was used to walking into and out of the woods at dark, but not with bear around, so once again, I would walk in alone in daylight but would wait for John to retrieve me. This was not because I was scared, but his concern for me should I meet a bear.

In 2018, I shot my first moose and my first bear. I became a bona fide hunter. I never considered myself a woman hunter, huntress, or lady hunter; I am a hunter and a fisherman.

I took up trapping after seeing a fawn and doe followed by a large bobcat minutes later on my game camera. I ended up finding the carcass of the fawn that was evidently killed by the bobcat. The number of deer in our area was significantly lower than past years, as were partridge, turkey and snowshoe hare. I soon realized you can’t take from one end of the game pyramid without balancing it by taking predators as well. I began targeting coyotes and bobcats. We caught four bobcats and two coyotes that first year, and continue to see them on our cameras, but more deer and smaller game have been showing up. We get regular calls to trap nuisance beaver that are destroying trees and flooding camps, but just don’t have time for everything.

Foraging for mushrooms and edibles like fiddleheads and ramps have become a real passion for me and John. When we’re not fishing or hunting, we’re hiking into remote spots and picking wild Maine mushrooms. We pick about eleven different types and my cupboards are bulging with canned fiddleheads and mushrooms! Caution, foraging can be addictive.

As the seasons come, I’ll share with you my adventures and I’ll share recipes from my foraging, and hunting as well as crafts like making soap, body lotion and lip balm from tallow to utilize as much of my harvest as I can.

Bear season will be upon us soon, and I’ll be busy setting up a new bait site and prepping for the opening day in late August. I hope you’ll come along for the adventure, and in the process become inspired to learn more. <

LELT’s new Trail Race Series launches Aug. 3

The 2024 Loon Echo Trail Race Series kicks off on Saturday, Aug. 3.

The inaugural trail running race series takes place across three trail networks owned and managed by Loon Echo Land Trust (LELT). All proceeds from the events support LELT trails and conservation work.

Loon Echo Land Trust will launch a new trail
race series with the Fluvial 5K at Crooked
River Forest in Harrison on Saturday, Aug. 3.
The series will include three different races in
 the area this summer. SUBMITTED PHOTO 

The Fluvial 5K at Crooked River Forest begins at 4 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 3 in Harrison. The cost to participate is $25.

This is a good introduction to trail racing and will take participants down to the historic Crooked River and have you exploring the trails of the Crooked River Forest.

Afterward, participants can enjoy some après brews from one of the best craft micro-breweries Maine has to offer at Fluvial Brewing.

The Bald Pate 10K will be held starting at 9 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 7 in South Bridgton.

The fee to participate is $35.

During the Bald Pate 10K participants will wind their way through the ancient pitch pine forest and take in beautiful views of Foster Pond and the surrounding area.

Bald Pate is a much beloved mountain and trail network, and this is your chance to experience the best of it.

The trail race series for 2024 wraps up with the Pleasant Mountain Race, a half-marathon, starting at 8 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 5 in Bridgton.

The cost is $75 if registered before Sept. 1.

This is the second time that the Pleasant Mountain Half Marathon Race will be held.

Participants will be able to take in the spectacular fall foliage as they navigate the technical single-track and traverse across Pleasant Mountain’s iconic ridge.

Runners who sign up for one race in the series will receive $5 off another race in the series.

More information and registration links for all of the trail series races can be found at LELT.org/race-series.

Loon Echo Land Trust (LELT), founded in 1987, is a nonprofit organization that protects land, ensures public access to the outdoors, and builds and maintains recreational trails in Raymond, Casco, Naples, Harrison, Sebago, Bridgton, and Denmark.

For more details about LELT properties, upcoming events, or how to get involved with the land trust, visit LELT.org or find them on Facebook under Loon Echo Land Trust. <

Age Friendly Windham receives AARP Community grant

The Town of Windham has announced that Age Friendly Windham has been selected to receive a 2024 AARP Community Challenge grant. It is one of only 343 grantees selected out of 3,300-plus applications from across all 50 states, Washington D.C., Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

The AARP Community Challenge grant program funds innovative, quick-action projects that inspire change in areas such as public places, housing, transportation, digital connectivity, community resilience, and more. With additional funding support provided by Toyota Motor North America, the program is also increasing its investment in pedestrian safety projects that will improve streets and sidewalks, create vibrant pedestrian infrastructure, engage community members and other significant projects.

This grant project will recruit, train, and provide incentives to Age Friendly Windham volunteer drivers to support a new on-demand ride service. Transportation options are currently limited for residents who cannot drive or don't have a car to get to medical appointments -- or anywhere else.

“We are incredibly proud that AARP selected AFW for this investment to make Windham more livable for residents of all ages,” said Erica Bell-Watkins, Windham Age Friendly coordinator. “AARP is a nationwide leader in making communities more livable and we are honored that they see the tangible value this project will bring to our area.”

With this quick-action grant, Age Friendly Windham will expand their transportation pilot program, AFWRides which recently celebrated its 100th ride provided to town residents.

Windham launched the transportation program in January to enhance accessibility to healthcare services for older adults residing in Windham. Age-Friendly Windham offers free transportation to medical appointments within the Greater Portland area. This program aims to address the challenges faced by seniors in accessing healthcare, particularly those with limited mobility or transportation options.

AFW is part of AARP's Network of Age-Friendly Communities and was adopted as an official AARP network by the Town of Windham in January 2019. AFW advocates for a livable community for all ages by adopting such features as safe, walkable streets; better housing and transportation options; access to key services; and opportunities for all residents to participate in community activities.

Providing free medical rides is one step toward feasible transportation options, Bell-Watkins said.

We ask for at least a 48-hour notice so we can ensure there is a driver available for you,” Bell-Watkins said.

As AFW continues to grow this initiative, it is the program’s goal to expand transportation options beyond medical appointments including other transportation needs for older adults, such as hair appointments, library events, Windham Parks and Recreation Department activities, and other town-wide happenings.

“AARP Maine is committed to working with local leaders, advocates and policymakers to make our communities better places to live for Mainers of all ages, especially those 50 and older,” said Noël Bonam, AARP Maine State Director. “We are proud to collaborate with this year’s grantees as they make immediate improvements to address long-standing and emerging challenges across our communities.”

Bonam said that the grant program is part of AARP’s nationwide Livable Communities initiative, which supports the efforts of cities, towns, neighborhoods and rural areas to become great places to live for people of all ages, with an emphasis on people ages 50 and older. Since 2017, AARP Maine has awarded 71 grants and $472,438 through the program to nonprofit organizations and government entities across the state.

To request a ride, please call and leave a message at 207-892-4649 and someone will return your call as soon as possible.

For further information about this program or other inquiries about Age-Friendly Windham, send an email to Erica Bell-Watkins at eabellwatkins@windhammaine.us. <

Portland Water District seeks calendar photos for 20th anniversary edition

By Kendra Raymond

Nowadays, virtually everyone has a cell phone in hand, and it is incredibly easy to snap photos at a moment’s notice. For those of us who spend time near the water in the summertime, there are typically many photo opportunities that present themselves. But once we have them, many are left wondering what we can do to make the most of our great photographic moments. The Portland Water District offers a unique opportunity for photographers of all skill levels to compete for selection in their yearly calendar, the Sebago Lake to Casco Bay calendar.

A view of the water looking toward The Notch is an example
of a Portland Water District calendar photo submission.
PHOTO BY KENDRA RAYMOND 

Previously named the Images of Sebago calendar, the 2025 edition will mark the 20th year of its publication.

Carina Brown, PWD Water Resources Specialist, says that the calendar originally started as an outreach project to highlight appreciation of the lake.

“Sebago Lake is the source of drinking water (that) Portland Water District provides to over 200,000 people in the Greater Portland area. After water is distributed and used by our customers, we collect, treat, and return clean water into the Presumpscot River or Casco Bay,” said Brown. “In an effort to develop an awareness, understanding, and appreciation for all the vital services we provide and all the waterways that we’re stewards of, we expanded the scope of the calendar to reflect that.”

This is good news for residents and visitors of several other bodies of water. With the addition of a broader scope of potential areas, photo buffs can get creative nabbing that perfect shot.

“Photos selected have typically been landscapes,” Brown said. “They need to include Sebago Lake or one of its tributaries, the Presumpscot River, or Casco Bay in the photograph. Of course, wildlife and people use these waterways too, so we have, from time to time included photos showcasing that as long as it exemplifies stewardship. “

A selection committee consisting of PWD staff will choose scenic calendar photos based on several considerations. This year the photos will be judged by the Watershed Protection staff.

The calendar has increased in popularity over the years, and Brown says that there is a lot of anticipation for its release late each year, usually by mid-December.

“It’s quite popular. I know at both the Sebago Lake Protection Office and the PWD office in Portland, folks often stop in hoping to get a copy leading up to its publication,” Brown said.

Calendars can be obtained at an outdoor receptacle at the Sebago Lake Protection Office (1 White Rock Road in Standish) and in the customer service lobby at the PWD Douglass Street location in Portland (during business hours). The limit is one per family and once they’re gone…they’re gone.

Chad Thompson, Source Protection Coordinator at PWD is also involved in the calendar project. He said that there was a larger number of calendars left this year, and several copies of the 2024 edition are still available if anyone is interested in obtaining one.

Submitting photos for the calendar is easy. Photos must be taken horizontally to fit the calendar format and must be uncropped. Photographers are invited to submit up to five photos. They should be high-resolution (at least 1 MB). Photos should be in their original state, meaning no filters or color enhancements.

Once submitted, you are giving PWD permission to use your photo in future publications such as newsletters or on social media. If your photo is selected, you will receive a complimentary calendar in the mail. The anticipation can be nerve-wracking. Brown says it is a bit of a “surprise reveal” to find out if your photo made it.

“The calendar is an effective outreach tool to inspire appreciation for vital water and wastewater services and a shared responsibility for valuable water resources,” Brown said.

As PWD has frequently reminded us over the years in their annual request for photos, “keep those cameras handy.”

To send photos for consideration, it is best to send one photo at a time. Email entries to: sebagolake@pwd.org. Include your name, email address, age (if under 21), time of year taken, and location of the photo. <

The deadline to submit photos for the 2025 calendar is Aug. 31.

For more information, visit: https://pwd.org/publications/sebago-lake-calendar <

Opportunist or suitor? Francis Radoux an influential figure in Raymond history

By Ernest H. Knight

Most of the original and early settlers of Raymondtown were native-born Americans one or two generations removed from their immigrant forebearers, but Francis Radoux was a foreigner in fact and nature.

The Richard Manning estate in Raymond was the home of
Francis Radoux and his wife, Manning's widow, Susan
Dingley Manning. Radoux was influential in the
Raymond community and assisted in the design of
a home nearby for Richard Manning's sister,
now known as the Hawthorne House. COURTESY PHOTO 

Francis Radoux came to this country as an unemployed soldier escaping from the debacle of an attempt to restore the French Empire by Napoleon Bonaparte. A lieutenant in the French army defeated by the Duke of Wellington at the Battle of Waterloo in 1815, Francis came to the United States in 1816 in search of fame or fortune, or both, and a few years later ended up in Portland. Probably because it was of advantage for a French officer to be charming and in possession of the graces of a gentleman, he was a dancing master there teaching the terpsichorean arts to the aspiring ladies of the provincial new state of Maine.

It was a convenient time and situation of golden opportunities.

Richard Manning from Salem, Massachusetts, a proprietors’ agent for the Beverly Proprietors of Raymondtown and a leading landowner and businessman after the town’s incorporation as Raymond, had built his imposing mansion in the location of what is now South Casco and married Susan Dingley, the daughter of the first setter of Raymondtown who had built the first mill on the nearby outlet of Thomas Pond and his homestead buildings across the road from the Manning site.

When Richard died in 1831, leaving Susan with a considerable estate and to choose the course of her future life, she came in contact with Francis Radoux.

As there was little reason for a French dancing master to go to the wilderness of Raymondtown compared to the many reasons for a well-to-do widow to go to Portland, it is likely she first met him there, evidenced by the existence in a Windham collection of papers a bill from Francis Radoux to Susan Manning for lessons.

They were later married and took up residence on the Manning estate in Raymond where he became engaged in the many activities of the community and owner of property, though not without question and controversy from both the local people and members of the Manning and Dingley families.

Francis was never completely absorbed into family relationships or into the hearts of the community, his French background creating suspicions and the feeling that he was more than a little interested in the Manning estate, and among the people as an opportunist inserted into their midst.

But he did work with and for his neighbors as indicated by bills and records, and perhaps his greatest memorial is the church in the community once known as the Radoux Meeting House. Richard Manning, in his concern for the needs of his friends and neighbors, wished for them to have a place of formal worship and left provisions in his will for this to be accomplished.

Perhaps the desire of the executors of the will to bring this about with minimal effect on the estate led them to the conversion of the nearby dwelling built by Manning for his sister Elizabeth Hathorne and nephew Nathaniel, which was then owned by Susan and Francis, into a meeting house under the supervision of Francis Radoux.

The massive chimneys were removed, the room partitions and floor of the second story, except for a portion left for a balcony, removed and wooden pews installed for its use as a church. Established as a “Union” chapel it was not the responsibility of any body or denomination but available to say who wished to use it, and therefore was not given the attention needed to preserve its physical condition.

For many years it was presided over by itinerant preachers, impromptu religious gatherings, or splinter sects such as the Bullockites, Cochranites or Hopkinsians until eventually in the early 1900s it was quite abandoned and ready for destruction.

Saved from this fate by civic-minded local people, mainly of the summer population, it is now the beautifully restored Hawthorne Community House support by the enthusiastic Hawthorne Community Association, still retaining its open interior arrangement for public gatherings.

Little is known of much of the life and activity of Francis Radoux, and he did not remain in the local area after the death of Susan. In the cemetery behind the Manning homestead is the grave of Richard Manning and beside him the grave of “Susan D. wife of Francus Radoux, died Nov. 22, 1852. Age 50” which includes the D. of her Dingley heritage and the name of her second husband but no connection to Richard Manning except the proximity of his grave.

There are other reminders of Francis Radoux in Raymond though, including deeded buildings in the area and records in a book at the Raymond Town Hall of Francis Radoux and seven children born between 1815 and 1826.

There is no knowledge of the final resting place of Francis Radoux but it is believed that he went to Louisiana to reunite with French compatriots there.

This article was written by the late Ernest H. Knight, one of the founders of the Raymond-Casco Historical Society and contained in his book “Historical Gems of Raymond and Casco.” It was submitted by the Raymond-Casco Historical Society and articles about Raymond history from the historical society will appear regularly in The Windham Eagle newspaper. To find out more about the Raymond-Casco Historical Society, call Frank McDermott at 207-310-0340.

Rev. Tim Higgins bids a fond farewell to St. Ann’s Episcopal Church

By Lorraine Glowczak

After 17 years of providing inspirational sermons to the congregation at St. Ann’s Episcopal Church in Windham, Rev. Tim Higgins wishes a heartfelt goodbye to the parish he has loved and supported during his long tenure there. His last day as the Rector of St. Ann’s will be Sunday, June 30 as he has accepted a call for clerical duties at St. George’s Episcopal Church in Sanford to begin Aug. 1.

St. Ann's Episcopal Church in Windham
invites the public to services and a 
celebration on Sunday June 30 to say
farewell to their longtime rector, the
Rev. Tim Higgins.
COURTESY PHOTO  

The move to a new parish isn’t an easy one for Higgins.

“It has been a privilege to serve St. Ann’s since 2007 and I will miss this wonderful church that has been the spiritual home to my family and me for so long,” he said. “Ministry is relational and thus it entails falling in love with the people you serve. This makes my leaving very, very hard for me.”

The long-time St. Ann’s Rector explains that the average tenure for a priest in the Episcopal church is about 10 years.

“My move signifies not only personal growth for me but also opens doors to new growth, opportunities, and possibilities for St. Ann’s,” he said.

Higgins, who began his career as a Catholic priest in 1987 and realigned his faith to Episcopal principles about 10 years later, looks back on his time at St. Ann’s with a combination of joy and melancholy. He reflects upon some of his most significant experiences.

“My work bringing people together of various faiths for ecumenical celebrations and community support has been one of my most rewarding experiences at St. Ann’s," Higgins said.

The church’s Deacon, the Rev. Lisle Blind, referred to Higgins’ community efforts as a spiritually unifying endeavor.

“I’ve witnessed how people feel so comfortable around Father Tim as if he has been a friend for a long time,” Blind said. “He is fun, laughs easily, and tells jokes. There is no pretense about him, and he creates community wherever he goes.”

Rev. Blind says Higgins’ well-known North Windham Post Office sidewalk visits are legendary. These include the annual “Ashes to Go” on Ash Wednesday, “Palms and Prayers” during Holy Week, and “Peace and Prayer” during Advent.

“I enjoy meeting new people, seeing old friends, and getting the opportunity to pray with them during these events,” Higgins said of himself and the St. Ann’s team he works with. “People always expect us to be at the post office for these sacred occasions and some make a special trip to see and talk with us. Some eventually make their way to St. Ann’s because they feel like they found an accepting spiritual home.”

Another well-liked community effort created by Higgins is the Windham Area Clergy Association, a gathering of clergy from various churches. The mission is to support one another, to respond to the community’s needs as an ecumenical team, and to observe liturgical celebrations together.

“These multi-faith experiences have included MLK observations, Thanksgiving worship, a Seder Dinner led by a retired rabbi, and Pentecostal celebrations,” Higgins said. “The most recent of celebrations is the weekly Free Thursday Community Meals.”

But it is with profound melancholy, that Higgins speaks about the young families and their children who have worshipped at St. Ann's over the years as well as the Vacation Bible School that St. Ann’s has offered for the past 10 years.

“I feel incredibly grateful for the 40-plus children that attended our vacation bible school every year,” Higgins said. “It’s the children who keep your heart open. I will miss these joyful young people so much.

In 2022, Higgins's work expanded when he was asked to serve as a Contact Priest for Faith Lutheran Church in Windham after their pastor left for full-time work.

“The bishop’s representative of the Lutheran Synod reached out to ask if I’d be willing to serve as their Emergency Pastor while they were in transition,” he said.

Higgins accepted and within two years became their transitional pastor with eligibility for a call for a one-year period. This included full parish visitation and monthly preaching.

David Guiseley, Faith Lutheran Church Council President says that Higgins was a stabilizing figure for their congregation.

“Father Tim has been a very personable individual who has been a great communicator with the parishioners,” Guiseley said. “He has been a helpful leader in our time together with St. Ann’s and he will be missed for these reasons, and more.”

As Higgins prepares for his next journey, he offers a sentimental farewell.

“I want to extend my gratitude and thanksgiving to the great Windham community and St. Ann’s congregation for their love and acceptance, faith, and friendship over the years,” he said. “Every life has a season and my season at St. Ann’s and Windham has been the light of my life.”

Rev. Blind captures the sentiment spoken by many in saying Higgins’ shoes will be hard to fill.

All are welcome to celebrate and say goodbye to Higgins at St. Ann’s on Sunday, June 30. The farewell times include an 8 a.m. service, a 9 a.m. coffee celebration, a 10 a.m. service, and an 11 a.m. barbecue. <

Two 2024 WHS graduates earn Mainely Character Scholarships

Sophia Gugliuzza and Chloe Harmon, 2024 Windham High School graduates, have been awarded Mainely Character Scholarship for $5,000.

2024 Windham High School graduates Chloe Harmon, left,
and Sophia Gugliuzza have each been awarded $5,000
Mainely Character Scholarships. The scholarships are
presented annually to Maine high school seniors who
demonstrate exemplary concern for others, responsibility,
integrity and courage. SUBMITTED PHOTOS

Mainely Character Scholarships are presented annually to Maine high school seniors who demonstrate exemplary concern for others, responsibility, integrity, and courage. Gugliuzza and Harmond were selected for this honor from nearly 380 scholarship applicants statewide. Gugliuzza’s scholarship is sponsored by Market Decisions in Portland while Harmon’s scholarship is sponsored by Richard and Anne Cass.

Gugliuzza says that she was inspired to spread inclusivity by her grandmother, a special education teacher. Recognizing the social divide in the separation of classes between students with and without disabilities, Gugliuzza took it upon herself “to bridge the gap.” She founded a Unified Sports Club at Windham High School and has fought tirelessly to expand its activities.

Unified Basketball pairs students with intellectual disabilities (Unified Student Athletes) with student partners (Unified Student Partners) without intellectual disabilities. Students make connections and work together. Coed training opportunities are a quick path to friendship and understanding.

Her commitment to champion equality and inclusion is demonstrated in her many different activities. She has volunteered at Camp Jabberwocky on Cape Cod for the last four summers. Jabberwocky is the oldest sleep away camp in the U.S. for students with disabilities. She showed her compassion when one of her campers had a psychotic episode, stepping in immediately, sitting with him and engaging him in comforting conversations.

As an active member of Windham High Schools Civil Rights club, Gugliuzza designed a mural honoring school shooting victims.

She also led a Spread the Word to End the Word campaign to end use of the R-word at her school. It was strategically scheduled to end on the same day as Unified Basketball Senior Night. Before the game, she helped to set up a station at lunch where students could pledge to never use the R-word.

“The buzz around the event grew and resulted in the largest turnout for any Unified game in our school’s history,” Gugliuzza said.

The atmosphere was electric as students filled the stands, armed with posters they made to support their friends on the team. The joy and camaraderie that filled the gym that day, coupled with the overwhelming support from the entire school community, created an unforgettable experience.

For Gugliuzza, it became for her the number one moment of high school and as she puts it, “a testament to the transformative power of unity, inclusion, and the positive impact we can make together when we stand together.”

In the fall, Sophia will attend the University of Michigan, where she will continue to study social justice issues. She plans to become a civil rights attorney.

Harmon says that she decided to become a law enforcement officer after her beloved stepfather died by suicide in 2015. A lieutenant from the Cumberland County Sheriff’s Department provided empathy and support during her family’s grief and inspired by his kindness, she’s dedicated herself to helping others.

Having completed high school, now in her stepfather’s memory, she’s preparing for a career of helping others.

According to Harmon, she is driven by this advice given to her by the Lieutenant: “You can’t save them all, but it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try.”

Those who know her say that Chloe has a true passion for community outreach and is a leader in classes, always speaking up if participation is scant, and always ensuring that lonely students get warm attention. She is the student that the teacher wants to leave in charge. She is also a feminist who wants to break barriers because she believes law enforcement needs women.

Harmon will attend Thomas College this fall.

The Mainely Character Scholarship Board of Directors recognized both Harmon and Gugliuzza as students upholding its tenets of character including concern, responsibility, integrity, and courage deserving of scholarships.

Mainely Character has been awarding scholarships to students of character since 2001. This year 12 different scholarships are being awarded to students in Maine entering a higher education institution in the fall. For more details, visit mainelycharacter.org. <

Trek Across Maine cyclists stop overnight at Saint Joseph’s College

By Ed Pierce

Participants in the 40th Trek Across Maine fundraiser enjoyed perfect weather in accomplishing their goal of completing 180 miles by bicycle last weekend peddling through some of the most scenic terrain in the Pine Tree State.

Riders in the Trek Across Maine reach the finish line of the
second segment of the 180-mile event at Saint Joseph's
College in Standish on Saturday, June 15. More than 600
riders departed the following morning to ride to Brunswick
to complete the journey which raises money from pledges
for the American Lung Association in Maine.
PHOTO BY ED PIERCE  

Starting on Friday, June 14 in Brunswick and then riding to Lewiston before spending the night there at Bates College, Trek Across Maine riders arrived Saturday, morning June 15 and into the afternoon in the Lakes Region, staying overnight at Saint Joseph’s College in Standish. On Sunday, June 16, riders completed the event by peddling back to Thomas Point Beach in Brunswick for a total of 180 miles.

The Trek Across Maine event is the primary annual fundraiser for the American Lung Association in Maine and participants once again were able to collect more than $1 million in pledges for riders completing the trek.

George Eastman of Pittston rode in his 25th consecutive Trek Across Maine this year and is the events’ logistics coordinator.

He said the most difficult aspect of the event for him each year is always finding enough time to get the miles in training.

“Riding for a cause is near and dear to my heart,” Eastman said. "When you can't breathe, nothing else matters. It seems that every year I always have friends or family to ride for, or in memory of, and I don't want the ‘in memory of’ list to grow so fast. There will always be someone to ride for until we can get people to understand that breathing clean air is important and inhaling poison by smoking will kill you sooner or later.”

Eastman says what is poignant year after year for him in participating in the Trek Across Maine is that there are too many people that have lung disease be it lung cancer, COPD, asthma, and breathing is something that most healthy people take for granted. By doing this ride and volunteering, he feels that he is making a difference and giving back to those that have a hard time breathing for whatever reason.

According to Eastman, over the years, he and his wife have lost six family members to lung cancer or other types of lung disease, so it is personal to them, but they ride in the event for anyone with lung issues.

Something that he’s learned about the American Lung Association that he did not know before he started doing the Trek Across Maine is what the organization does for lung health.

“They’re fighting for clean air, they have made it so there is no smoking allowed in many public places, they have research teams working on how to treat lung diseases, programs to keep kids from starting to smoke and the list goes on,” Eastman said.

The American Lung Association’s mission to research, educate, and advocate to prevent lung disease and promote lung health and funds raised during the Trek Across Maine each year support laws protecting clean air, and asthma and COPD research, lung education, education, advocacy, and research to help prevent and treat lung-related afflictions.

What stands out the most to him is that he can ride 180 miles on a bicycle and still do at the age of 73 and that he has been able to raise over $1,000 and most times more every year since he’s started riding in the event.

“Over the 25 years I've raised over $30,000 to help people breathe easier,” Eastman said. “My wife has said she thinks I may be the oldest trekker someday...we will see. I do really enjoy it.”

He rode in this year's Trek Across Maine on a Trek 1000C bicycle.

“As long as one doesn't have too many flat tires it's not too hard. I didn't have any this year,” he said. “I try to do most of my own maintenance, but I do take it to a shop once a year before the Trek and have it inspected which is required by the American Lung Association before I ride, and at that time if there is anything that needs work I have them do it.”

From riding for 25 years every year in the Trek Across Maine, Eastman has also learned something he never knew previously about himself.

“I’ve learned that if you set your goals and your mind to it and work for them one can do anything,” he said. “I never thought I could ride a bicycle 10 miles let alone 180 over three days or raise as much money as I have.” <

Maine Guide paddles way through Lakes Region

By Abby Wilson

It’s no secret that the Lakes Region of Maine is ideal for recreation, especially kayaking, canoeing, and boating. Mainers and visitors are encouraged to utilize the clean waters of lakes and rivers in the summer. But what are the best ways to access these locations, and who can you ask for guidance?

Registered Maine Guide Bill Allen leads a kayak tour in
the Lakes Region. He has been paddling since he was
a child and enjoys being out on the water.
SUBMITTED PHOTO 

Bill Allen, a Registered Maine Guide, has been on the water since he was a kid. He says, “I learned to row a rowboat when I was 7 or 8 years old.”

Then in high school, Allen got a canoe. It was manufactured by a company called “Giselle.” At the time, they were known for making truck caps and canoes.

In those early years, Allen enjoyed paddling the Winthrop Lakes Region. It wasn’t until after high school that he got a kayak.

Today, Allen guides kayak trips in the Sebago Lakes Region for visitors from all over the world. He says there are “30 to 40 launch spots open to the public within a 10- or 15-mile radius of the office.”

Allen has explored much of the region and has a few favorite places. The Tenny River is accessible off of Webbs Mills Road in Raymond and one can launch their kayak onto Crescent Lake.

From there, Allen says it’s a “short paddle so it’s good to incorporate a paddle around Crescent to Tenny River.” In addition to Crescent Lake, Panther Pond is also a great spot to paddle, he says.

In fact, when out-of-towners ask Allen where we would rent a cottage in Maine, he says “Anywhere on Panther Pond or Crescent Lake.”

Dundee Pond is another favorite of his. The launch site is by the North Gorham Dam on Windham Center Road.

There is little to no motorboat traffic there.

“I like the nice peaceful, quiet paddling spots, connecting with nature,” Allen said.

As a guide, Allen enjoys the history tours. In the fall, the tours paddle the Presumpscot River, launching from the Gambo Soccer Fields.

This tour is called the ‘Foliage Tour’ and covers local history. They also visit Babb’s Covered Bridge on Hurricane Road.

Unsurprisingly, there was a hurricane that washed away parts of the covered bridge and there was also a fire in the late 1800s.

Another threat to this historical landmark is its reputation as a swimming spot. Many local kids have climbed to the top of the bridge to jump off into the river, Allen said. A hole was cut into the roof to make the top more accessible.

Allen encourages people to swim there, but not to jump off the bridge. He said that there is a rope swing nearby that provides the same thrill.

On the Presumpscot River tours, Allen says, “There’s always ducks, geese, bald eagles, various birds, and wildlife along the shoreline.” This is because of low motorboat activity.

Three nights a week in the summer, he embarks on the Sunset Tour. This trip goes from Panther Run to Jordan Bay, where visitors are taken to “Hot Tub Island,” a publicly owned island that has a circle of rocks arranged into hot tub size and shape.

The island is an ideal place to watch the sunset and a favorite of Allen.

“Sunsets are like snowflakes, no two are the same,” he said.

Many of the guided tours conclude with a treat – a Maine Needham. Often visitors have never heard or seen a Needham, so Allen tells their story and explains that they are a staple in Maine.

Safety is a priority on any guided trip. As a Registered Maine Guide, Allen has Red Cross First Aid Training. Guides take a dry bag of supplies on each trip and explain to participants the contents of the bag as well as basic safety protocols.

“It’s all about the experience,” Allen said.

When families tag along, Allen enjoys noticing the dynamic of the family and seeing the kids happy. Even if they weren’t excited before they went out on the water, they always come back smiling.

He knows that the kids will remember this when they grow up.

“Maine is an especially unique place in the world,” Allen said. “I always tell people paddling is good for your soul. It’s easy, peaceful, and relaxing.” <

BTI and Project Graduation team up to create a fun and memorable event for 2024 graduates

By Masha Yurkevich

Graduation is a huge milestone and a great reason to celebrate, as long as you do it the correct and safe way. Once again, Be The Influence (BTI) and Project Graduation are working together to create a fun, memorable, and most importantly safe, event for 2024 graduates.

For this year's Project Graduation event,
students needed to have clear bags so Be
The Influence provided transparent 'swag
bags' for the venues that students are going
to, allowing volunteers and others to be
able to see what students are carrying
and help support the experience for them.
SUBMITTED PHOTO

Not only does this event celebrate launching the students onto their next steps in life, it also helps students understand and support them in knowing that they can have a lot of fun without using substances with their friends.

As the project director for Be The Influence (BTI), Patrice Leary-Forrey has the role of being the community connector for 12 different sectors, including RSU 14, government municipalities of Windham and Raymond, faith-based organizations, and other youth serving organizations as 12 different sectors have come together to support the work that Leary-Forrey does.

BTI is a federal-funded grant through the Drug Free Community (DFC) serving youth in sixth grade to 12th grade with a goal of providing prevention education in the community for youth and supporting the youth to live substance free lives. This involves prevention education in the classroom, offering community support for parents and youth, and low barrier opportunities for families to come together and have positive experiences.

Project Graduation launched in 1980 when seven alcohol and other drug-related teen deaths occurred in Oxford Hills during the beginning of the season. Led by the Drug and Alcohol Team of Oxford Hills (DATOH), schools in the area and local communities provided the Class of 1980 at Oxford Hills High School with information about the risks of drinking, drugging and driving. The seniors were offered an alternative to the ‘traditional’ graduation-night drinking event that drew hundreds of people to the local fairgrounds. They called this chemical-free party “Project Graduation.”

The purpose of Project Graduation is to give the graduates the opportunity to celebrate their success with their classmates, substance-free, and to come home safely to their families.

Project Graduation is a group of volunteers, most often parents, that come together and organize an evening post-graduation for the seniors around substance-free opportunities.

“In the past, this has been trips to Boston or other fun events where students can come together and have a good time without substances,” says Leary-Forrey. “The goal is to provide students with a safe space and place for students to celebrate substance free.”

Project Graduation works year-round to fundraise and support the effort.

“BTI supports Project Graduation through providing ‘swag bags’ in which students can find a congratulations letter, a snack, a drink, a little activity if they’re taking a bus somewhere to help promote unity and give students the opportunity to have one thing all in common for the evening,” says Leary-Forrey. “For the event that the students will be embarking on this year, they needed to have clear bags, so we provided transparent bags for the venues that the students will be going to, allowing the people who are volunteering and supporting the event to be able to see what the kids are carrying in supporting the experience for them.”

This year, there is an astounding number of students who want to participate; higher than the number anticipated and that has been in the past.

“I want to highlight that kids are choosing this opportunity, which is remarkable and speaks volumes to the team that is putting the experience together,” says Leary-Forrey.

While Leary-Forrey cannot reveal what and where the event will be this year, she makes it clear that it will be an event to remember, filled with tons of fun and memories that will last a lifetime.

“The students leave a few hours after graduation and return the next morning,” says Leary-Forrey. “Promoting the event from the side of the community would be very helpful and highlighting the work that these parent volunteers do to make this event happen. It is no small task to organize 150 students to go on a big adventure together.”

Not only is it important to highlight that this is a substance free event that the parent-volunteers organize, but that throughout the entire year, they put in so much hard work to make this one adventure happen for these students completely free of charge.

Leary-Forrey said a huge thank you goes out to parents, volunteers, students, donations, and all other funding sources that help make this happen. <

WHS National Honor Society to conduct bottle drive

By Jolene Bailey

An upcoming bottle drive will help fund activities and scholarships for National Honor Society students at Windham High School.

The bottle drive collection will take place between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. Saturday, June 8 under the canopy at Windham High.

The National Honor Society is an organization that recognizes high school students for both their academic integrity and respectable identities. Students are considered for induction as they have proven themselves to be strong individuals in their freshman and sophomore years of high school. Once inducted into NHS, students are expected to withhold their responsibilities of demonstrating their leadership skills, maintaining good character, and committing to serve their community.

“Students have the opportunity to demonstrate qualities by participating in volunteer opportunities both within the society and outside of it, said WHS National Honor Society President Jordyn Davis-Belanger. “Overall, being a member of the National Honor Society is both a huge accomplishment and a responsibility for those involved. Our society recognizes outstanding students and gives us a chance to make a difference in our school and community.”

NHS members have hosted numerous fundraising events throughout each and every school year. Some they have done in the past include several food drives, a blood drive done in the fall, and the spring and the winter clothing drive from which the items collected were donated to the Preble Street Homeless Shelter in Portland.

“We have drives that we do yearly, but we are also always willing to find new ideas and opportunities. This bottle drive, as I mentioned before, has become almost a tradition in our society,” said Davis-Belanger.

The bottles donated and collected by NHS supervisor Brandon Champion will be redeemed at Patmans for money. A significant amount of the proceeds raised throughout the school year including this drive will go to grant two $800 scholarships to students at WHS.

“As of right now, this will be our last fundraiser of the school year. But starting back up with the next school year, we will have fundraisers or opportunities to volunteer at least once a month” said Davis-Belanger.

When students are involved in the NHS, volunteering gives them service hours which goes toward the required 24 hours each member needs per year. It is also just a great way for them to get involved, and demonstrate their leadership skills, which had nominated them in the first place.

“We already have our blood drive scheduled for November 20, as well as our annual poinsettia fundraiser that raises money for our scholarships. Other fundraisers are in the works, but we are continuously finding ways for students to get involved in the community and in our school,” said Davis-Belanger. “For those in the community, the bottle drive is a way to get rid of your empty bottles, but you are also a part of giving away two huge scholarships to help out students outside of high school.”

Davis-Belanger said this is important as it makes a difference in the community and allows kids to take part in this activity.”

For more details about the bottle drive, send an email to NHS President Jordyn Davis-Belanger at jjdavisbelanger2025@rsu14.org <

Rhubarb season offers a wealth of opportunities

By Kendra Raymond

Late spring in Maine can only mean one thing: rhubarb season has arrived. For some, this is a much-anticipated rite of passage into summer, while for others it may not even be on their radar. Whether you are a fan or not, why not embrace the season and take advantage of this quirky early season crop?

Two varieties of rhubarb are shown growing
outside a home in the Town of Raymond.
PHOTO BY KENDRA RAYMOND

Rhubarb is a perennial plant which returns yearly and is classified as a vegetable in the buckwheat family. Rhubarb needs to live in areas where winter temperatures dip below 40 degrees which encompasses USDA hardiness zones 3-8; Our area is classified as 5a to 5b.

The University of Maine Cooperative Extension bulletin #2514 entitled “Growing Rhubarb in Maine” provides some great background education, growing tips, and uses. The publication says that early records of rhubarb in America identify an unnamed Maine gardener as having obtained seed or rootstock from Europe in the period between 1790 to 1800. He introduced it to growers in Massachusetts where its popularity spread and by 1822 it was sold in produce markets.

In Judith M. Fertig’s book, “The Memory of Lemon,” the main character who is a baker says, “I loved rhubarb, that hardy, underappreciated garden survivor that leafed out just as the worst of winter melted away.”

Think of rhubarb as one of the first crops of spring, coming in a close second to fiddleheads. Full of many vitamins and fiber, rhubarb is a nutritious and low-maintenance addition to the home landscape, providing interesting texture, serving as a border, or a quick area filler.

As a horticulturist, I am always looking for opportunities to obtain plants for cheap or free, and especially heritage varieties belonging to family or those that hold sentimental value. When my in-law’s house in Fort Kent was listed for sale, you better believe I was out in the garden, axe in hand to chip away a piece of my husband’s childhood rhubarb patch. Yearly, I make my mother-in-law’s rhubarb jelly with her rhubarb.

The New England Vegetable guide says that: In New England, the most common rhubarb variety grown is Macdonald, also known as Macdonald's Canadian Red or Macdonald Crimson. This cultivar has large stalks and a vigorous and upright growing habit and is resistant to wilt and root rot. It is probably the most common variety available. It is excellent for pies, canning, and freezing.

Transplanting

It’s not difficult to get part of a rhubarb plant, either at a garden center, or by dividing a small section from a friend or neighbor’s plant. Dividing rhubarb is best done in early spring when the crowns emerge from the soil. This will give the new plant a long growing season to become established in its new site. Next, dig a trench around the desired section of the plant to expose the crown. Plan to obtain at least two buds and a decent section of root, but don’t worry if you lose some deep roots – they will do just fine. An axe or sharp tipped shovel works well for this task. Keep your root ball moist and transplant as soon as possible. Choose a sunny location with lots of space for expansion. Make sure the crown is a couple inches above the soil level to ensure proper growing.

Flowers and Harvesting

As the plants mature for the season, a large flower may emerge from the stalks. Removal of the flowers can stimulate healthy growth, but leaving the flowers is also an option if you like them. When the stalks appear mature, simply cut them at the base to harvest. Do not cut immature stalks, and never remove more than half of the plant. Remove the leaves (they are toxic), wash the stalks and cut as desired for various uses. Rhubarb leaves make a great addition to the home compost pile. Fresh rhubarb stalks can be stored in the refrigerator for several days.

I’ve got ‘em, now what?

This is the fun part: time to get creative with preparation methods for your fresh rhubarb. In my recipe book, I have a section entitled “rhubarb,” which comes in handy for this application. My gold standard is old fashioned rhubarb coffee cake, a recipe handed to me by my mother. I also like making crisps, jelly, pie, and relish. The internet is filled with creative and healthy ways to use rhubarb.

Read more about Rhubarb in the University of Maine Cooperative Extension bulletin here:
https://extension.umaine.edu/publications/2514e/

Here is a great bulletin about the health benefits of rhubarb including storage options and recipes:
https://extension.umaine.edu/publications/4266e/

Taste of Home provides 10 great rhubarb recipes here:
https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/top-10-rhubarb-recipes/ <

Party marks 100th birthday for history-making mother

By Ed Pierce

From a business career to serving as a town treasurer, becoming a wife and a mother, to making history as the first elected selectwoman of Weld, Maine, Dorothy “Dot” Weld Reynolds Skolfield has led quite a life, but now she’s added another accomplishment to her life story – reaching the milestone of turning 100 years old.

Dorothy 'Dot' Weld Reynolds Skolfield 
celebrated her 100th birthday on May 14
with family members at her daughter Sharon
Bickford's home in Windham. She made 
history when she was the first woman elected
to serve on the Town of Weld's Board of
Selectmen. SUBMITTED PHOTO  

Skolfield passed the century mark and celebrated her birthday May 14 with her family at her daughter Sharon Bickford’s home in Windham. She was born May 14, 1924 in Boston, Massachusetts to Howard G. and Lottie Wetmore Reynolds.

The Reynolds children included Florence Barber, Edith McDaniel, Howard E. Reynolds, Caroline Rackliffe and Dot who is the only one still alive.

After completing school in Newtonville, Mass., Dot went on to attend Fisher College in Boston. She spent many summers growing up in Weld, Maine and that’s where she met someone who would change the direction of her life, her future husband, Stanley Skolfield.

Stanley and Dot were married in Scarborough on March 5, 1948, and had two children. Thomas, who lives in Weld, and Sharon who lives in Windham with her husband Charlie. Thomas Skolfield represents Weld as a State Representative in the Maine Legislature.

Through the years, Dot worked as a clerk at Jordan Marsh in Boston, then she went on to be a store manager, a realty researcher, and she also worked for a time at a shop in Atlantic City, New Jersey. She also was the Weld Town Treasurer and was the first woman ever elected to serve on the Weld Board of Selectmen.

“What I remember most about growing up was she was always an easy going, gentle, supportive, creative, and fun-loving mother,” her daughter said. “We loved everything she cooked for us, that is, anything except liver. In those days, much was grown in the big family garden, and we weren't picky.”

For anyone who would ask, Dot would tell them that she grew up in a barn and that’s literally the truth.

“Her parents renovated an old barn into a lovely home for five active children,” her daughter Sharon said. “After she and her husband were married, they were homesteaders who cleared their land, one on each end of a crosscut saw, milled the lumber, and built a home.”

Sadly, her husband Stanley passed away in 1991. Stanley had earned a degree in Electrical Engineering and Technology and was employed by Edison Electric in New Jersey. He moved the family back to Weld where he was a highway supervisor in charge of construction and maintenance of highways in that section of Maine.

These days Dot lives with the Bickfords in Windham and she’s a little hard of hearing but says the greatest invention of the 20th century is without a doubt the airplane.

For fun, Dorothy says she loves spending time with and enjoying her family. She has four grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandchild and one great-great-great-grandchild.

Right now, she’s the current holder of the Boston Post Gold Cane for longevity in Weld and an official "Rosie the Riveter” and collective recipient of the civilian Congressional Medal of Honor.

To honor her birthday, the Bickfords hosted an open house for Dot at their home in Windham on May 11. <

Time has arrived to get your spring bedding plants

By Kendra Raymond

Most everyone in our area can agree, it has been a tough winter. From early to late-season storms and the damage that ensued, it is time to recoup our losses and move forward with yard beautification.

A mother and her daughter select plants for a
window box in Raymond at a local greenhouse.
PHOTO BY KENDRA RAYMOND

The storm damage clean up continues in our area and neighbors are coming together to help each other regain some sense of normalcy on their property. The Town of Windham brush disposal area on Enterprise Drive has extended their closing until 6 p.m. June 9.

Now it’s time to think about adding some color and pizzazz to your yard with flowering annuals, vegetables, and perennials. The chance of frost has passed, and local garden centers and big box stores are brimming with colorful options ready to plant.

As a horticulturist, I have spent plenty of time in greenhouses during the spring season. Most customers arrive, list in hand with a laser focused expression on their face. They wander through the rows of colorful annuals, fulfilling the “mandatory” bucket list.

I am pondering the question, why does this seasonal rite of passage hold such reverence for us Mainers? To look for answers, I spoke to a couple customers at a local greenhouse who were purchasing contents for planters which are often located on steps or decks.

The two said that they plant the same annuals every year and they wouldn’t consider changing up their yearly purchases. Both explained that there is no need to deviate as the planters have always flourished.

Another group had a different opinion, telling me that they are willing to try anything new, and that they “like surprises.” The shoppers also expressed interest in the new farm to table trend, as well as untraditional container plantings like herbs or vegetables.

The Mid-Maine Greenhouse Growers Association reminds home gardeners to stay connected, listing their mission as: “Our goal is to help you find the right plants to get the most out of every flower bed, vegetable patch and patio pot - because we grow the plants we sell.”

Containers or gardens

For container planting, that is anything being placed in a hanging basket, plant pot, window box, or other receptacle – it is important to think ahead. Most seedlings are sold in 4- or 6-packs and are often root bound and still immature. Most of these plants will expand substantially when transplanted into a larger space, so make sure to allow room for expansion. I learned a little trick, which I will share here: mix up a bucket of fertilizer, remove the seedlings from the packs, dip the roots into the solution, and then plant into new soil. This gives the plants a boost of energy.

If your bedding plants are being moved into a garden, the fertilizer dip can also be used in this application. You may also want to consider a soil test just to make sure the garden will provide the necessary conditions for growth, including the proper pH and nutrient content. Before planting, it is a good idea to turn over your soil with a rototiller or pitchfork, amend with manure and peat, and rake flat.

Sun or shade

Before purchasing annuals, I would recommend considering the destination for the plants. Once this is determined, simply ask an employee at the greenhouse which plants like sunny or shady locations. There are also many plants that thrive in both sun and shade.

Maintenance

Another important factor to keep in mind is the time you are willing to invest in caring for your annuals. Most container plantings are quite low maintenance, and only need watering about once a week. Gardens are usually watered by the rain, with just a bit of supplementation during dry spells or when the plants are first moved.

The University of Maine’s “The Garden Pro Answer Book” by Dr. Lois Berg Stack, is filled with copious amounts of information for home gardeners, landscapers, and garden center owners. It provides information on challenging sites, gardening, and many tables and charts.

Check out the Maine Landscape and Nursery Association website at: https://www.melna.org/

The University of Maine bulletin, “Annual Flowers for Special Uses” is a great resource and can be visited at: https://extension.umaine.edu/gardening/manual/annual-flowers-special-uses/

The Real Maine website provides a useful directory of greenhouses and nurseries here: https://www.realmaine.com/horticulture/annuals-bedding-plants/page/2/?listing%5B0%5D=nursery-greenhouse-garden-center <

Raymond Village Library to host presentation by Maine crime novelist

By Kendra Raymond

Whether you’re an outdoorsperson, bookworm, or just interested in a night out, a presentation by a noted crime novelist may be just the ticket. “A Night with Paul Doiron” will be offered at 5 p.m. Wednesday, May 15 at the Raymond Village Library.

Sponsored by Friends of the Raymond Village Library partnering with Sherman’s Maine Coast Book Shops, the groups are pleased to offer this rare opportunity to the community. The event is free and pre-registration is required.

Don’t jump in the car just yet; Librarian Rachel Holden says that there is a lot of interest in the event. In fact, Holden says there has been so much hype that the house is already full. As a backup plan, she has started a wait list in case of cancellations.

Doiron enthusiasts are encouraged to call the library to be added to the list.

The hour-long event will feature a reading by Doiron from his upcoming novel, “Pitch Dark,” the 15th book in his Mike Bowditch series.

Following the reading, Doiron will accept some questions from attendees.

“The reading will be followed by a Q&A and a book signing. Sherman's Maine Coast Bookshop of Windham has agreed to partner with us and will send a representative for onsite sales of Mr. Doiron's currently published books and to take pre-orders for Pitch Dark before and after the event and these sales will be cashless for simplicity's sake,” said Holden. “Additionally, Mr. Doiron will bring an advanced reader copy of “Pitch Dark,” which one lucky attendee will win.”

Holden explained that an advanced reader copy, or an ARC, is a copy of the book that publishers send out for free to booksellers, librarians, book reviewers, before the book is printed for mass publication and distribution.

According to the Goodreads website, Paul Doiron is the best-selling author of the Mike Bowditch series of crime novels set in the Maine woods.

His first book, “The Poacher’s Son,” won the Barry Award and the Strand Critics Award and was nominated for an Edgar for Best First Novel. His second, “Trespasser,” won the 2012 Maine Literary Award.

His novelette “Rabid” was a finalist for the 2019 Edgar in the Best Short Story category. Paul’s 12th book, “Dead by Dawn” won the New England Society’s 2022 Book Award for Fiction, as well as his second Maine Literary Award. It was also a finalist for the Barry Award.

His books have been translated into 11 languages. He is the former chair of the Maine Humanities Council, Editor Emeritus of Down East: The Magazine of Maine, and a Registered Maine Guide specializing in fly fishing.

Doiron attended Yale University, earning a degree in English. He also earned a Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing from Emerson College. He resides in coastal Maine with his wife, Kristen Lindquist.

Doiron has been featured in stories by News Center Maine, the Maine Writers and Publishers Alliance, Maine Voices Live, and the Portland Press Herald, to name a few. He’s also been interviewed by numerous library representatives and bookstores, and many of Doiron’s recordings are available on You Tube.

A prolific author, Doiron manages to keep fans engaged by releasing a new book most years, usually in the early summer. He has also been known to publish two in a year’s time.

The prestigious Kirkus Reviews heralds “Pitch Dark” as “A perfect beach read that will make you hug yourself in pleasure and excitement and search for a little more warmth.” It follows Warden Service Investigator Mike Bowditch as he embarks on his next adventure that is sure to have you on the edge of your seat.

"Pitch Dark" goes on sale June 25 from Minotaur Books and MacMillan Audio.

The Raymond Village Library is at 3 Meadow Road in Raymond. Visit the website at: https://www.raymondvillagelibrary.org/

Registration for the free event is required by calling the library at 207-655-4283. Fans are reminded that the event is presently full. However, people can be added to a waitlist by calling the library. <

Lake Region Community Chorus spring concert nears

It is concert time again for the members of the Lake Region Community Chorus. Performances of the group’s “Sing, Sing, Sing” spring concert will be held at 7 p.m. Friday, May 17 and 3 p.m. Sunday, May 19 at the Bridgton Academy’s Twitchell Chapel in North Bridgton.

The Lake Region Community Chorus will perform its spring
concert 'Sing, Sing, Sing' at 7 p.m. Friday, May 17 and at
3 p.m. Sunday, May 19 at Bridgton Academy's Twitchell
Chapel in North Bridgton. SUBMITTED PHOTO

This enthusiastic singing group is made up of 60 members from 12 surrounding towns who will present a varied program made up of traditional Classical pieces, folk songs, show tunes, medleys of hits by The Beatles and John Denver and lots more.

The Lakes Region Community Chorus is directed by Jan Jukkola and Susan Stockwell and accompanied by Patrick Speckamp. The program will also include accompaniments by these very talented musicians, Rusty Wiltjer, percussion, Mark Priola, electric bass, Ian Smith, trumpet, Liz Rounds, flute, Glen Jukkola, violin, Pam Ward, guitar, Brian Sprunger, guitar and Jacob Kuvaya, bass.

The chorus is a vibrant and dynamic non-profit organization providing choral programs for the Lakes Region of Maine community.

Its history is short because it’s a relatively new organization.

The chorus had its first meeting in February 2013 to discuss the possibility of forming a choral group in the Lakes Region.

It was amazing how quickly everything seemed to come together, and with Laurie Turley as its original conductor, chorus members performed their first concert in June 2013.

Since then, the original group of 36 singers has grown with each season, and now has 58 members from 14 communities, including Bridgton, North Bridgton, Naples, Sebago, Harrison, Waterford, Stoneham, Raymond, Casco, Windham, Denmark, Lovell, Hiram and Fryeburg.

The LRCC is a community of voices joined together in song.

Its purpose is to provide an opportunity for individuals with an interest in singing to share their love of choral music through regularly scheduled rehearsals that will culminate in community and outreach performances. It also strives to enhance each member’s ability to sing by teaching vocal exercises and techniques and to enrich their choral experience by providing a wide variety of musical selections that will increase their knowledge and appreciation of choral literature.

 
Lakes Region Community Chorus performs two concerts each year. One falls in early December and features holiday music. The other is a springtime concert generally falling in mid-May.

 
With the generous support of Bridgton Academy, concerts are performed in the Twitchell Chapel on the Bridgton Academy campus in North Bridgton. Rehearsals are held on Monday nights at Twitchell Chapel. For the December concert, rehearsals start around Labor Day, and for the Spring concert, they start around the end of January.

Chorus members would like to thank the Bridgton Academy for all their help and support and providing them with rehearsal space and a concert venue. They would also like to thank their enthusiastic audiences and local sponsors.

Each concert is free but donations to help cover the expense of music and operating costs will be gratefully accepted.

If interested, come and join the Lake Region Community Chorus as they lift their voices and sing, sing, sing. This year’s concert is sure to be remembered long after the final chords are sounded.

Please visit the Lake Region Community Chorus website for more details or call 207-647-2584. <

Legislature approves trails bond as proposal heads to November ballot

The Maine Legislature has approved the Maine Trails Bond that will provide $30 million over four years to invest in the design, development, and maintenance of trails statewide. In a strong show of bipartisan support, the Maine House voted, 133-6, and the Maine Senate voted, 29-3, far surpassing the two-thirds majority votes required to pass bond measures. The measure was signed by Gov. Janet Mills and will appear on the November ballot for approval by Maine voters.

Loon Echo Land Trust Executive Director 
Matt Markot walks with State Rep. Jessica
Fay at Pondicherry Park in Bridgton last fall.
Fay's bill to invest $30 million for state 
trails was approved by the Maine Legislature,
signed by the governor and will be on the
ballot statewide for voters in November.
SUBMITTED PHOTO 

This will be the first time that Maine voters will have an opportunity to vote for a trails bond. At a time when outdoor recreation activities, including on trails, represent a growing segment of Maine’s economy, the Maine Trails Bond has garnered broad, bipartisan support across the state.

“This is terrific news,” said Pete Didisheim, the Senior Director of Advocacy at the Natural Resources Council of Maine. “We’re thrilled that Maine voters will have their first-ever opportunity to support a bond that would invest in new and improved trails statewide. These investments in trails will deliver benefits for generations to come.”

The remarkably broad coalition of 520 Trails Bond supporters includes 75 cities and towns, 168 businesses, 41 ATV and snowmobile clubs, 43 statewide organizations, and 193 local organizations. The Maine State Chamber of Commerce, L.L. Bean, Maine Municipal Association, Maine Snowmobile Association, ATV Maine, Bicycle Coalition of Maine, New England Mountain Bike Association, Maine Tourism Association, and Maine Outdoor Brands are but a few of the entities supporting the bond.

The Loon Echo Land Trust was one of the organizations that signed on to support the bond.

"Trails are integral to our way of life here in Maine. Our communities have long enjoyed access to this critical infrastructure, but we can't take it for granted," said Matt Markot, LELT Executive Director. "LELT manages over 35 miles of trails across the Lake Region and a Maine Trails Bond will enable us to better invest in these important community resources."

Enock Glidden, an Outdoor Accessibility Consultant and a disabled athlete, shared his support of the Trails Bond.

“As a wheelchair user and lifelong resident of Maine, I grew up in a time when accessibility was not at the forefront of most people’s minds,” Glidden said. “That’s why I’m so enthusiastic about the Maine Trails Bond. If passed by Maine voters, this bond will help provide new accessible opportunities for people like me to be surrounded by nature and reap the benefits of what Maine’s outdoors has to offer.”

LD 1156 was introduced by State Representative Jessica Fay (D-Raymond), with cosponsor support from three other Democrats, five Republicans, and one Independent.

“Now more than ever, trails are critical to our quality of life and the health of Maine people. I am confident that Maine voters will embrace the Maine Trails Bond this fall, which will help fund trail projects across the state that enrich our lives, communities, and economy,” Fay said.

Senator Rick Bennett (R-Oxford and Northern Cumberland County) was a co-sponsor of the bill.

“Local economies across Maine will benefit enormously from this bond,” Bennett said. “I support the amazing number of organizations across the state who have called on the Legislature to place this measure on the November ballot," Bennett shared. "This is too good an opportunity to pass up.”

The Maine Trails Bond, or LD 1156, will provide $30 million in competitive grants over four years to organizations and towns for motorized, non-motorized, and multi-use trail projects. Funds will be managed by the Maine Bureau of Parks and Lands for the design, maintenance, and construction of trails statewide.

Al Swett, President of the Maine Snowmobiling Association, shared his support for the bond.

“Maine’s trails and trail clubs bring people together and help them access some of Maine’s most spectacular places,” he said. “For too long, we’ve been underinvesting in our trails. But that could soon change, if Maine voters endorse the Maine Trails Bond this November – which I think and hope they will.” <

Raymond Community Garden prepares to kick off growing season

By Kendra Raymond

With spring well underway, many Mainers are developing a case of spring fever. This usually includes migrating outside, the smell of food grilling, people walking in neighborhoods, and sounds of motorcycles hitting the roads. As the risk of the last frost approaches, traditionally around Memorial Day weekend, Mainers look forward to planting flowers and vegetables in home gardens.

A portion of the Raymond Community Garden during the
2023 season is shown. The sunflowers are repeat
residents of the garden and re-seed themselves every year.
PHOTO BY LINDA PANKEWICZ 

While some property owners are lucky enough to have perfect soil and light requirements, others face growing challenges in their yard. Thankfully, Raymond residents are fortunate to have access to the Raymond Community Garden right at their fingertips.

The Raymond Community Garden was started about 10 years ago with the help of federal stimulus funds. It has grown from a tiny plot beside the Raymond Village Library to a sizeable area where community members can gather. The garden provides green space for residents of all ages to enjoy, learn, and work. Best of all, a significant portion of the crops grown are donated directly to the Raymond Food Pantry.

Garden Coordinator Linda Pankewicz says that the RCG employs a type of sharecropper rule where one row of each gardener’s plot provides vegetables for the food pantry. Many gardeners grow garlic, pole beans, onions, and tomatoes to donate. However, creative crops are welcomed and encouraged.

The garden is part of the University of Maine Cooperative Extension and the Maine Hunger Project. The Cooperative Extension donates seedlings and Raymond resident Nate Rand donates his time to grow tomatoes and pole beans to contribute to the food pantry.

The Cooperative Extension says that the community garden contains both rental plots and a large common plot. The produce grown in the common plot is donated to the food pantry and provides quality, healthy food for families that need it.

For a nominal fee of $15, residents can purchase a plot to use for the season. Plots are about 12- to 15-feet square. It is common for residents to purchase a double plot. Garden coordinator Leigh Walker manages the plot purchases and oversees activity at the garden.

“Some people have a shady yard, like me, so the garden provides a great place to grow,” Pankewicz said. “Other residents may face challenges on their property such as soil quality concerns while others may have a heavily wooded property, extremely wet or dry soil. Let’s not forget the social aspect, a visit to the garden can put you in touch with neighbors and even some new friends.”

Pankewicz said that the garden area is maintained by volunteers with the Cooperative Extension, but additional helpers are always welcome. She explained that the garden area consists of two sections, the Children’s Garden with the pergola nearer the library and the back section of the garden, located on property owned by the Plummer family and used through their generosity.

The community effort doesn’t stop there. A local summer camp is a member of the garden, providing opportunities for kids to learn about gardening. The camp donates their yields to the food pantry, further continuing the enriching experience as campers learn about the importance of community involvement through volunteering.

The Raymond Community Garden is committed to being friendly to the environment requiring that all plots must be organic and chemical-free, said Pankewicz. Water conservation is also encouraged by using mulch and provided rain barrels.

Sunflowers are abundant in the garden and are well-established through re-seeding, especially in the Children’s Garden. “The original sunflower seeds were planted by the children attending a special program on the Native Americans who lived in the area.

“The sunflowers growing now are all from the original planting, but garden members have sometimes added their own varieties,” said Pankewicz.

The Raymond Community Garden is located next to the Raymond Village Library at 3 Meadow Road in Raymond.

To learn more about purchasing a plot or volunteering at the Raymond Community Garden, contact Garden Coordinator Leigh Walker through the library at 207-655-4283, or feel free to drop in. An information board is located at the entrance to the garden and provides pertinent information as well.

Community Garden updates are available on the Raymond Village Library website at: https://www.raymondvillagelibrary.org/ and on the Raymond Village Library Facebook page. <