Windham sculptor finds connection and creativity in granite

By Masha Yurkevich

For sculptor Isabel Catherine Kelley, granite is more than a hard stone. It is a material that allows her to explore emotions, relationships and the connections people share, one carefully carved piece at a time.

Windham sculptor Isabel Catherine
Kelley works with granite to create
sculptures exploring human 
connection, emotion and the
experiences that shape her life.
COURTESY PHOTO 

Kelley has spent more than a decade developing her craft, transforming granite into sculptures that reflect her interest in duality and the ways people connect with one another. A New England native, Kelley works out of her garage studio in Windham, where she creates her granite sculptures.

Her interest in sculpture began in high school, when she started working with clay. She later attended the Maine College of Art, where she experimented with plaster, building forms only to take them apart again. That attraction to removing material eventually led her to stone.

A turning point came when she received an internship with the Schoodic International Sculpture Symposium, where she spent a summer working alongside international artists.

“That was the summer where I figured out that I loved working with granite,” Kelley said.

She has continued working with the material ever since, drawn to its physical demands and the hands-on nature of carving. As a New England native, she also appreciates that granite is a familiar part of the landscape in the region.

Her creative process varies depending on the sculpture. Sometimes, she begins with a detailed drawing, often using exaggerated colors. She may create a drawing years before turning the idea into a finished piece. Other times, she begins with a piece of granite and carves directly into it, allowing the work to develop as she goes. Much of her inspiration comes from emotional connections with other people.

Kelley said she has increasingly recognized themes of duality throughout her work, including the feeling of being divided between different thoughts and the search for common ground. Her sculptures often explore the idea that, even when the world seems divided, there can still be a meeting point between people.

Working with granite requires patience, planning and specialized equipment. Kelley creates her sculptures in her garage and has a small gantry crane capable of lifting a ton. Moving larger pieces around her yard, however, can require renting a truck or finding people to help. The carbide-steel tools and diamond bits she uses in the process can also be expensive. Still, Kelley embraces the challenges.

“I like the challenge of working with granite and having to think a few steps ahead of the process,” she said.

Recently, she has been exploring ways to work with multiple pieces of granite rather than a single block. One example is a sculpture that has been installed outside the Ellsworth Public Library along its Riverwalk Trail. The piece combines different colors and grains of granite, with Kelley working to make the separate pieces appear seamless, as though they were one.

She is also developing a sculpture that draws on her own life experiences. The work begins with a butterfly form that she hopes to transform into an exaggerated, shield-like shape. She plans to engrave its surface with small scenes and stories reflecting her childhood, girlhood and motherhood.

The project has taken on additional significance since she became a mother to a 2-year-old, a change that has affected both her life and the time she can devote to her art.

Beyond the sculptures themselves, Kelley said that one of the most rewarding parts of her career has been the community she has found through stoneworking. She has been involved with the Maine Stoneworkers Guild for more than 10 years and currently serves as its chair. The organization brings together masons and artists across the state who share an interest in working with stone.

Kelley began working seriously with granite around 2011, and the relationships she has built through the community have remained an important part of her artistic journey. She hopes more people will consider trying granite sculpture themselves, saying that while the work requires particular tools, it is not as impossible as it might appear.

Next summer, Kelley plans to participate in a two-week sculpture symposium with seven other artists at the Boothbay Region Land Trust. Visitors will be able to watch artists transform raw granite blocks into finished sculptures, with the event concluding in an auction benefiting the land trust. 

For those interested in seeing her work, Kelley has public sculptures at the Newagen Inn in Southport, outside the Ellsworth Public Library, at Riverfront Park in Hallowell and at the Andres Institute of Art in Brookline, New Hampshire.

She also shares her work on Instagram under the handle @callmeickshmael. Although she does not have an immediate project planned for Windham, Kelley said she would welcome the opportunity to create something for the community.

For an artist who finds meaning in the connections between people, that possibility offers another chance to turn a solid piece of granite into something that brings people together. <

Best Buddies program to conduct Thanksgiving ‘Turkey Trot’ fundraiser

By Matt Pascarella

Last year, Windham High School started their section of the Best Buddies program which pairs individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities with a peer buddy without a disability to help foster genuine friendships, reduce social isolation, and promote inclusion. The program will hold a two-mile walk, run or relay fundraiser, the Turkey Trot, on Thanksgiving morning, Thursday, Nov. 26 at Windham High School’s stadium and the course will take participants around the campus.

Registration begins at 7:30 a.m. on Thanksgiving Day with the race starting at 8 a.m.

“I have always wanted to participate in a Thanksgiving morning Turkey Trot, and I thought this would be a great way to bring our town together while supporting a cause that means so much to me,” said event organizer and Windham senior Bailey Ward. “Our goal is to bring the community together for a morning of fun, friendship, and inclusion while raising awareness and funds for Windham High School’s Best Buddies program.”

The money raised will directly support the growth of the Windham Best Buddies chapter and allow us to provide more opportunities for our members. It will help them purchase supplies for meetings and activities ... that encourage students to connect and build friendships.

The Turkey Trot will not just be a race. There will be raffles featuring gift card baskets and other fun prizes, donation opportunities, face painting, activities for children and adults, and free food and beverages at the stadium. The hope is that people will stay, connect with others, and enjoy the morning even if they are not participating in the race.

When Ward began the Best Buddies program at WHS last year, it was an immediate success and this year the membership has more than doubled. This shows how much interest there is in building a more inclusive school community.

During our meetings, it is incredible to see how excited our members with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) are to connect with other students their age, participate in activities, and develop friendships,” said Ward. “At the same time, the other students genuinely enjoy coming to meetings and getting to know their buddies. Everyone has the opportunity to learn from one another. We have also started seeing these connections extend beyond our meetings, whether it is students interacting in the hallways or sitting together at lunch. Those moments are especially meaningful because they show that inclusion is becoming part of everyday life at our school. I have also seen a significant increase in participation in Unified Sports, which has been another exciting development.”

Whether you live in Windham or outside of the community, all are welcome. Registration is $30 a person with a discounted rate of $20 for Windham students. Children 8 and under can participate for free. Payment can be made through the online registration link or at the race. They welcome cash, checks, and online payments.

The event has been posted on Facebook and the Windham community board, and registration information has also been sent to parents throughout RSU 14. You can view the Google Form through the Best Buddies Instagram page, @windhambestbuddiess. 

“I think this helps to make the community more aware of this program, its impact, and provides an opportunity for more people to help support the program,” said Peter Small, Assistant to the Race Coordinator. “And one of the biggest missions of this run is to bring community together. The opportunities, initiated by students, have provided experiences that students might otherwise not have. Being a part of this group and supporting this group has an immediate impact on the experiences of all students involved.”

If anyone has questions you can reach out to Ward at [email protected]

Everyone is welcome to run, cheer, participate in activities and support Windham’s Best Buddies program.

“Along with awareness, the run has the opportunity to bring the community together to start the Thanksgiving holiday,” said Small. “I am excited to have the town of Windham and people from neighboring communities to come together to start the day and to support an amazing cause.” <

Southern Maine Agency on Aging changes name to AgeMaine

By Ed Pierce

Since 1973, one of the most well-known nonprofit organizations serving older adults and caregivers in Cumberland and York counties has been the Southern Maine Agency on Aging. But the organization’s leadership has determined that a new name, AgeMaine, better reflects who they are today and the future that they’re helping build for Maine.

From delivering meals to helping a neighbor find housing, the work of AgeMaine brings together practical support and opportunities to stay connected with care for the people and places that make Maine home. It provides Adult Day Care Programs; Meals and Nutrition overseeing the Meals on Wheels Program, Community Resources; Medicare Counseling, Caregiver Support, and Social Connection for older adults and volunteers to engage in friendly conversations, giving both people time to share, listen, and get to know each other and so much more.

Founded in 1973 under the federal Older Americans Act, AgeMaine is a nonprofit organization that plans and provides services for adults age 60 and older. It prioritizes people with the greatest economic and social needs, including people with limited incomes, minorities, and other people of color, and people living in rural communities.

Alongside its direct services, AgeMaine brings its neighbors’ experiences into statewide conversations about aging.

“Working with staff, volunteers, community partners, and supporters, we advocate for policies and resources that help people find support, stay connected, and have choices about how they age,” a note on the AgeMaine website says. “Maine has the highest percentage of older adults in the nation.”

The announcement of the name change was made on Oct. 5, as guests gathered in Portland. Organization President and CEO Megan Walton revealed the new name and identity to the community.

The unveiling connected the history of Southern Maine Agency on Aging with its hopes for Maine’s future.

“After more than 50 years as Southern Maine Agency on Aging, we’re building on relationships with generations of older adults, caregivers, volunteers, and community partners,” a note on the AgeMaine website said. “Those relationships will continue to guide us as AgeMaine.”

Under its new name, Walton has outlined how AgeMaine’s values will be put into practice going forward:

Community-Centered

AgeMaine will work with community partners, use resources responsibly, and remain transparent.

Innovation

AgeMaine listens, learns, and adapts as people’s needs and communities change.

Belonging

AgeMaine welcomes different experiences, challenges ageism, and makes room for other voices.

Client-Centered

AgeMaine works alongside the people it serves, supporting their choices and communities.

Impact-Driven

AgeMaine strives for excellence and measures the difference its work makes. 

Team-Oriented

AgeMaine staff help one another, communicate openly, and make time for fun in a safe, respectful workplace.

Future priorities

According to Walton, looking ahead to the future, AgeMaine’s priorities will include:

* Expanding community hubs.

* Strengthening social care coordination.

* Developing new approaches with and for volunteers.

* Advancing their work with diverse communities.

Age Maine will continue to be the focal point in Cumberland and York counties for valuable resources, services and information to empower older adults, adults with disabilities, and their caregivers to live to their fullest potential, she said.

To learn more about AgeMaine and services that it offers to the community, visit agemaine.org/ <

Parents organizing dance for homeschooled students

By Erin Rose

Children who are homeschooled in the Windham area will soon have a chance to join the fun of going to a dance.

Homeschooled sixth grader Malachi Russell
of Windham displays a flyer that he is
distributing in the community promoting a
dance for kids in grade 5 through 8 to be held
from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, Dec. 4 at Fire and
Ice in Windham. SUBMITTED PHOTO   

Local parent Julia Russell is working with other homeschool families to put together a dance for kids in grades 5 through 8 who are learning at home, to be held from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 4 at Fire and Ice in Windham.

“With homecoming season approaching, I started thinking about how I didn’t want homeschoolers to miss out on experiences like dances and other social events,” Russell explained. “My goal with this dance is to bring new families together, give our kids an opportunity to meet others their age, and help build a supportive homeschool community as we navigate this new journey.”

Russell began homeschooling her 11-year-old son, Malachi, this year, and doesn’t want him to miss out on social opportunities available to his peers.

“I think that just because kids are homeschooled doesn't mean they should miss out on having fun, letting loose with kids their own age, making new friends, and having experiences that feel like they're just for them,” she said. “These are the kinds of memories they'll look back on when they're older. Homeschooling may look different from traditional school, but I don't want our kids to feel like they're missing out on the fun parts of growing up.”

The dance will also help families who homeschool their children build connections and find new friends.

“Once I started talking with a few other moms, we realized there were other families who wanted the same thing, and the idea just kind of grew from there,” Russell said. “I also wanted him to have the chance to get to know more families within the homeschool community.”

With the venue now finalized, some local businesses have stepped forward to provide donations for both the event and a raffle will be held to raise funds.

Fire & Ice Maine generously donated the space for the event. Pat’s Pizza and Domino’s will be providing food and Root’s Café in Westbook will be donating chocolate chip cookies, in addition to homemade baked good prepared by some of the homeschool parents. Studio Flora Designs and Farmhouse Flowers have also offered flowers for the dance.

“The response has honestly been incredible,” Russell said. “I had high hopes that our community would come through, and they absolutely have.”

Russell is also organizing a raffle of 14 different prizes, donated from local businesses, including a gift card to Mow’s Munchies, a deep clean by Kimmie’s Cleaning & Organization, admission to the Pride’s Corner Drive In, services at Studio Aerie and Spruce Salon, and baked goods from Hailey’s Kitchen, Kneedful Things, and Four Chickens Farm Stand. The Maine Dance Center is also offering a free month of lessons. The prizes could expand as more businesses come forward and become involved.

Tickets for the raffle are $5 each or five tickets for $20 and may be purchased through Russell’s Venmo account. The winner of the raffle for each item will be pulled on Sunday, Nov. 15. The funds raised will be used to help offset costs for the event, and any remaining money will be spent on future events.

“The money raised will help cover things like the venue and DJ, if needed, drinks, paper products, and hopefully a photo booth or some type of photo setup where the kids can take pictures and have them sent to their phones,” Russell detailed. “If we have money left over after the dance, we'll put it toward our next homeschool event, which will probably happen toward the end of the school year. We're really hoping this can become an annual tradition for the kids.”

“As the entries come in, I keep track of each person's name and the item they entered for,” she added. “So far, we've already had $75 worth of raffle entries, which is really exciting.”

Parents are welcome to attend the event with their children, and Russell invites any parents who are open to volunteering to help the dance run smoothly.

“Parents are welcome to stay for the dance or drop their kids off, whatever they are most comfortable with,” she said. “We have a great group of moms who have been involved from the beginning, tossing around ideas, helping with planning, and sharing their opinions. I think we are in a really good place when it comes to volunteers for setup and chaperoning, but we are always grateful for anyone who wants to help make the night special for the kids.”

The excitement for the event is growing, as the kids are looking forward to the chance to have fun with their peers.

“My son lit up when I mentioned wanting to put together a dance,” Russell said. “I also had a few moms reach out to let me know that their kids are already excited about the dance, which has been really fun to hear.”

Russell lives in Windham with her husband Joe, who volunteers to coach Malachi’s football team, and has four children.

For more details about the dance or raffle, Russell recommends searching the Windham Maine Community Board Facebook page for her updated posts, or by calling 207-754-0011. <

American Legion welcomes new members in October

By David Tanguay
Special to The Windham Eagle

Attention All Veterans! Claim your Golden Ticket as American Legion Field-Allen Post 148 offers an annual month of October free new member opportunity to join the American Legion that runs through Veterans Day in November.

If you served at least one day of active service and hold an Honorable Discharge, you are eligible for one of the Golden Tickets for a no-cost first year membership to the largest, the most influential veteran's organization in the country, the American Legion.

As the nation celebrates its 250th Anniversary in 2026, the American Legion also celebrated 107 years of service to veterans; our youth programs; the Legion’s unfailing support for the nation’s national security and under the Americanism program, a dedicated support for our national symbol, the American Flag. These are the four pillars of the American Legion.

Why Join the American Legion?

Since its inception in France after World War I in 1919, the American Legion has been the largest service support and advocate organization for all veterans. The American Legion is the most inclusive of all Veteran Service Organizations and was formed to ensure that World War I veterans received their pensions.

It later drafted the first GI Bill of Rights in 1944 for all veterans, not just those who were forward deployed and has been at the vanguard of all significant veteran’s legislation since then including the more recent Blue Water Navy Bill and Burn Pits legislation (PACT Act) encouraging all vets from recent conflicts to get screened for exposure to toxins and is providing needed service and support to member and veterans who have exposures to a wide range of toxins.

Today more than ever, the Legion is working for and with veterans to reduce the mental health issues associated with veteran’s suicide. The BE THE ONE Program is now one of the most proactive suicide prevention services in the nation with its 988 +1 call program. It is the veteran's voice in Congress.

Need help with your VA Benefits or just need questions answered? Field-Allen Post 148 in Windham provides for a regularly scheduled VA Service Officer to answer questions, discuss benefits, and assist with claims. Resources and other benefits are available at the Veterans Coffee held each Wednesday at the Windham Veterans Center (WVC) from 9 to 11 a.m. and is open to all veterans. Stop by for coffee on Wednesday and meet fellow vets and get responses to your concerns.

The Field-Allen Post provides dedicated programs in all Four Pillars of the American Legion. The Post provides recognition and scholarships for our youth, promotes a highly visible oratorical program based on the U.S. Constitution and runs week-long emersion programs in government. It honors our veterans in ceremony as well as in practical support for those who had heating, medical, and food insecurities.

The post sponsor monthly Red Cross blood drives as well as monthly dinners. It also hosts the town's Memorial Day events including the parade, ceremony and open house; Veterans Resources Fairs; Veterans Fishing events: 9/11 tributes; a Four Chaplain’s ceremony each February, as well as providing an honor guard and services for our fallen veterans. 

If this last item is an area of interest, the Post 148 Honor Guard has recently lost several members due to health issues and retirement. If you really want to make a difference, join the Field-Allen Post and then become an Honor Guard member. It is a truly rewarding experience and the satisfaction of a job well done is thanks enough. There is support for the purchase of the Honor Guard uniform and training is conducted bi-monthly.

For additional Information, please contact the Post 148 Adjutant at 207-892-1306 or send an email to [email protected] <

Windham Trails Passport encourages residents to explore outdoors

Fall is one of the best times to explore the outdoors in Maine, and Windham Parks and Recreation is giving residents an added incentive to hit the trails throughout October.

Windham's Parks and Recreation's Trails
Passport Challenge encourages residents
to explore six local parks, trails and 
preserves throughout October while 
enjoying fresh air, exercise, fall foliage
and a chance to win prizes.
COURTESY PHOTO   

The department's Windham Trails Passport, running from Oct. 1 through Oct. 31, challenges participants to visit six parks, trails and preserves around town while enjoying some exercise, fresh air and fall foliage. The program offers a fun way for individuals and families to discover outdoor spaces they may not have visited before while working toward a prize.

Passport stations have been conveniently placed at Donnabeth Lippman Park, Lowell Farm Trailhead, Mountain Division Trail, Windham Community Park, Atherton Hill Trailhead and Black Brook Preserve.

Participants can download a Trails Passport or pick one up at the Windham Parks and Recreation office at Windham Town Hall. While visiting each location, hikers search for the passport station and use the stamp provided to mark the corresponding space in their passport. If the stamp cannot be located, participants can draw the image displayed on the passport station sign instead.

The six destinations provide a variety of ways to experience Windham's outdoor spaces.

Donnabeth Lippman Park, located at 18 Chaffin Pond Road, encompasses 123 acres in the heart of North Windham. Lowell Farm, at 47 Falmouth Road in East Windham, offers more than 300 acres of wooded land to explore.

The Mountain Division Trail provides a different experience with a paved route suitable for walking and bicycling that connects Windham with Gorham and Standish. Parking is available off Gambo Road.

Windham Community Park, at 373 Gray Road, offers additional recreational opportunities with basketball and volleyball courts, a skate park and picnic pavilion.

Participants can also explore the Windham Community Forest, originally two separate but adjoining preserves, Lowell Preserve (now Lowell Farm Trailhead) and East Windham Conservation Area (now Atherton Hill Trailhead) which are owned by the town and managed by Presumpscot Regional Land Trust. The community forest contains 10+ miles of trails and is part of an over 2,000-acre conservation corridor - larger than any state park in Southern Maine.

Rounding out the challenge is Black Brook Preserve, a 105-acre property on Windham Center Road owned by the Presumpscot Regional Land Trust.

The Trails Passport can be completed over several outings during October, allowing participants to explore the locations at their own pace. That also provides an opportunity to watch the landscape change as fall progresses and peak foliage colors arrive throughout the month.

Windham Parks and Recreation is encouraging participants to take photos during their adventures as well. Trail selfies and other photos can be shared on social media using the hashtag #wprtrailpassport, with the possibility of being featured on the department's social media pages.

Those who complete the entire passport can submit it to the Windham Parks and Recreation office at Windham Town Hall to receive a prize.

The challenge is part of the department's ongoing effort to encourage residents to take advantage of Windham's parks, trails and conservation areas. With destinations ranging from paved trails to wooded preserves, the passport also provides an introduction to the variety of recreational resources that are available without having to travel far from home.

The Windham Trails Passport runs from Oct. 1 through Oct. 31, giving residents the entire month to complete the challenge. Whether the goal is to get some exercise, spend time together as a family, enjoy Maine's fall foliage or simply discover a new favorite trail, the program offers plenty of reasons to lace up a pair of walking shoes and see more of Windham this October.

No registration is required. All passports must be submitted by 4 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 5. Visit the events page at windhamrecreation.com to download your trail passport. <

Raymond Parks and Recreation offers a variety of fall programs for young and old

By Masha Yurkevich

Raymond Parks and Recreation is offering a variety of programs and activities this fall for residents of all ages, from youth sports and adult recreation to outdoor activities, family events and community outings.

According to Raymond Parks and Recreation Director Riley Silvia, the department aims to provide opportunities for residents with a wide range of interests and experience levels.

“Our goal is to make sure Parks and Recreation truly has something for everyone,” Silvia said.

Youth soccer is currently under way, and registration is open for the upcoming youth basketball season. Adult offerings include basketball at Jordan-Small Middle School, pickleball at Raymond Elementary School and futsal at Jordan-Small Middle School.

The department is also offering several outdoor recreation opportunities. The “Fall in Love with Yoga” program, offered in partnership with Sebago Cycle, allows participants to practice yoga at Tassel Top Park. The “Together on the Trail” hiking group meets weekly and explores trails in Raymond and surrounding communities with Registered Maine Guide Elena Glidden.

For younger children, Raymond Play & Grow provides a relaxed weekly play group at Sheri Gagnon Memorial Park. The program gives young children an opportunity to play while their parents and caregivers connect with others.

While there are no brand-new programs being introduced this fall, Silvia said the department is continually looking for ways to expand its offerings.

“One of our biggest challenges right now is access to indoor recreation space,” Silvia said. “As we head into the colder months, we are trying to get creative with the spaces and resources available to us.”

Youth sports continue to be among the most popular programs. Soccer and basketball provide local children with opportunities to participate close to home, develop skills and become part of a team.

Pickleball has also become popular among adult participants. The department offers different nights for different levels of play, from beginner and leisurely play to intermediate and advanced, allowing people with varying levels of experience to participate.

Silvia said the department determines its programming by listening to residents, monitoring which programs fill up and considering feedback from participants. Staff members also look at how existing community spaces can be used in new ways. One example is Raymond Play & Grow, which was created around the existing amenities at Sheri Gagnon Memorial Park, including its playground and walking path.

Among the events Silvia is particularly looking forward to this fall is Pumpkins in the Park and Outdoor Movie Night at Tassel Top Park. The family-friendly event will give families the opportunity to decorate pumpkins together before watching an outdoor movie. The event is scheduled for 5 p.m. Friday, Oct. 30 in partnership with the Raymond Schools PTO. Families will receive a pumpkin and decorating supplies, with the movie beginning at approximately 6:15 p.m. Popcorn and a drink will be included, and families are encouraged to bring blankets and lawn chairs. The decorated pumpkins will also be displayed for the community to enjoy on Halloween night. Parks and Recreation will additionally have a photo booth available during Halloween trick-or-treating for families and children to take pictures in their costumes.

The department is also organizing “Night Out with Raymond Parks & Recreation” trips to Maine Celtics and Maine Mariners games, giving residents an opportunity to attend professional sporting events together. 

For Silvia, the importance of the department extends beyond the individual activities it offers.

“Recreation is about much more than the activity itself,” Silvia said. “These programs create opportunities for people to meet their neighbors, make friends, spend time with their families, and feel connected to their community.”

Residents can find information about current programs and register through the Raymond Parks and Recreation RecDesk page at Raymond.recdesk.com. Program updates, registration openings and special events are also shared through the Town of Raymond Parks and Recreation Facebook page. Silvia encourages residents who have never participated in a Parks and Recreation program to give one a try.

“You do not have to know anyone, be an experienced athlete, or have participated in Parks and Recreation before,” Silvia said.

Whether through a sports program, hiking group, family event or community outing, the department hopes residents will find an opportunity to get involved this fall.

“More than anything, I hope they leave feeling a little more connected to their neighbors, their family, the outdoors, or the Raymond community as a whole,” Silvia said. <

New volunteers sought to help others through traumatic events

By Erin Rose

The Traumatic Intervention Program of Greater Portland (“TIP”) is searching for new volunteers, and Windham resident and current TIP volunteer Richard MacLaughlin can attest to how rewarding it is to help people going through dark times.

Windham resident Richard MacLaughlin
is a volunteer for the Traumatic
Intervention Program of Greater Portland 
which is hosting a training session for
new volunteers at the Westbrook Public
Safety Building from 6 to 9:30 p.m. on
Wednesday, Oct. 14.
SUBMITTED PHOTO

“Every time there is a call, I know I am going to help someone through something difficult,” MacLaughlin said of his year with the organization. “It helps me keep my problems in perspective.”

The group will be hosting a training session for new volunteers at the Westbook Public Safety Building from 6 to 9:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 14. The session will be the first of seven required trainings that are scheduled before volunteers are able to start taking calls and helping members of the community.

“The training is five weekday evenings, one full weekend day and two half weekend days,” MacLaughlin said. “It’s excellent training. I felt competent to volunteer on my own after completing the training. The trainers are local and awesome. I am a better person for having attended this training.”

TIP ‘s volunteers are available 24 hours a day to help provide support and resources to people impacted by traumatic events, including fires, accidents or severe injury, suicide, overdose or sexual assault. The group’s team of 25 volunteers serve nine local communities, including Windham, Gorham, Westbrook and Falmouth.

“In the towns we serve, we meet with the first responders and make our services known,” MacLaughlin said. “Anytime one of the first responders, or sometimes a nurse from MaineMed, sees the need for a volunteer because someone is in distress, they contact our dispatch and we go to where they are. You can’t always tell how someone is doing until you get a chance to really check in with them.”

Pam Grant, the Director of TIP, said the organization covers 62 shifts a month.

“We are called in by the 911 system to support the survivors of a tragedy, as well as the first responders,” she said.

The volunteers provide four main areas of support. Emotional first aid helps provide a “calm, caring presence when it matters most,” MacLaughlin said. TIP volunteers also provide clear information, to help the impacted families “understand what’s happening and what comes next,” he continued.

They also provide access to and information about resources that are available to victims and survivors, including cleanup services and community support, MacLaughlin said, adding that the fourth includes helping protect the victims and their families from harm and hurtful comments, even if they are well-meaning.

The support is not limited to just the direct victims of the trauma, but also to those who may be in the background as emergency services personnel work to assist their loved one.

“We prevent what is called a second injury, the feeling of being abandoned by the system that is caring for their loved one,” MacLaughlin said. “A simple example of what I’m describing would be if someone and their spouse were in an automobile accident and one of them was severely injured or died. While the police, EMTs, firefighters and the first responders work on the injured one, the other may be left alone and without support. That’s where we come in.”

Sometimes, it can be difficult for those who provide care to people during traumatic events to separate themselves from the incident, but the group provides opportunities for supporting each other.

“We have monthly required meetings and part of that is speaking about difficult calls, sharing with the group and making sure members get whatever support they need,” MacLaughlin said. “I have a mantra – ‘This is to be with and help, not to carry.’”

A dedicated volunteer, MacLaughlin gives his focus to a single group at a time, having previously been on the Board of Directors for the Windham Youth Soccer Association and a member of the Sebago Lake Rotary Club.

“I saw a story on a morning news program about TIP and thought ‘I could probably do that,’” he said. “Within a week, I began the training.”

MacLaughlin has lived in Windham since 2005 with his wife Sarah and son Josh and works as a local building contractor.

To learn more information about TIPS or to get more details about the upcoming trainings, visit https://www.tipgreaterportland.org/. <

Riding To The Top celebrates final Wine Tasting Event

By Erin Rose

The Riding To The Top Equine Therapeutic Riding Center (RTT) will be hosting its 15th annual and final Wine Tasting event at its facility on Lilac Drive in Windham from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 19.

Riding To The Top Equine Therapeutic
Riding Center on Lilac Drive in Windham
will host the 15th annual Wine Tasting
fundraising event from 4 to 7 p.m. on
Saturday, Sept. 19 with proceeds to
benefit RTT's equine therapy programs.
SUBMITTED PHOTO

“This is 15 and we’ve had so much fun,” said Pat Niboli, a longtime volunteer at the center who helps host the event after developing the idea with her nephew when he began working at Deutsch Family Wine & Spirits. “He said ‘let’s have some fun, and let’s do a wine tasting party.’”

The first year was hosted at a neighbor’s house, and while attendance was small with only seven people, it quickly grew.

“We decided to do it again because we had so much fun, and moved it to RTT,” Niboli explained. “Over the 15 years, we have had over 1,000 people come in to that wine tasting party. It’s been huge.”

The event has raised more than $70,000 to support the center over the 15 years and has allowed people to tour the facility and meet the equine members of the staff.

“This event has long been a staple of RTT’s fundraising events,” said Kelly Johnson, Development Director for the center. “It’s always a pleasure to welcome those long who are familiar with the farm and our work here alongside newcomers who are being introduced to RTT for the first time. It is always special to get to watch members of the RTT community, particularly RTT’s stalwart volunteers who attend this event as guests, get the chance to introduce their friends and family to the farm. Our volunteers are such an integral part of what gets done on the farm and it means so much for them to get to share it with their loved ones.”

The wines will be selected from the most popular offerings at event sponsor The Good Life Market, located on Roosevelt Trail in Raymond, and will be paired with a selection of cheeses also provided by the local market.

“The event includes an educational component with Bob Scheele of Deutsch Family Wine & Spirits offering insights into the different wines and the regions they come from,” Johnson said. “The evening ends with a shared potluck dinner provided by various community members. It’s an event that allows people to come together to enjoy good wine and cheese pairings, curated by Walt Manchester of The Good Life Market, some time with friends and the chance to reset after the bustle of the summer.”

The center’s significant impact on the population it serves is witnessed by the volunteers who are well placed to watch the patients’ growth over their time at RTT.

“We see some of these clients grow from four years old to 15 years old and it’s just incredible the feeling you get when you watch a kid smile when he gets on a horse, or when he runs to his horse and puts his arms around him,” Niboli said. “It’s just a wonderful feeling.”

“It’s like an empowerment to that child,” she added. “The parents say that they look forward to that one day a week, and that’s really something.”

The impact is not limited to the patients who take part in equine therapy but also touches the 200 specially trained volunteers that devote their time to the center.

“The volunteers are tremendous,” Niboli said. “We know how much it means to those kids for us to be there, but it means so much for us because of what we get in return from both the horses and the kids and adults that ride. We get a lot out of being with the horses, almost as much as the clients we work with do.”

Johnson echoes the same, as she hears from volunteers who have benefited from their work at the center.

“Our volunteers also comment on the physical and social-emotional benefits that they receive from volunteering at RTT,” she said. “One volunteer recently commented, ‘As soon as I step out of my car on Monday mornings at RTT, I can feel myself decompressing. Probably the most special moments are that some of the horses seem to want to be there for you, coming and standing near you, sensing the emotional grief you are feeling that day.’” 

The center decided to end the event while it remains popular and are still working to find a new idea for future fundraisers.

“This event is a close partnership between Riding To The Top, The Good Life Market in Raymond, and Deutsch Family Wine & Spirits,” Johnson said. “After a joint discussion, it was decided that while we’re all open to collaborating in different ways in the future, 15 years felt like a good stopping point for this particular event.”

Tickets for the event are available to members of the public who are 21 years of age or older for $25 and must be purchased in advance through a link on the center’s website: https://www.ridingtothetop.org/wine-tasting

Founded in 1993, RTT is the only center in Maine accredited by the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH Intl.) solely dedicated to Equine Assisted Services. The center’s facility includes a heated indoor arena and an outdoor riding ring on 50 acres of land at 14 Lilac Drive in Windham.

The center’s programs include therapeutic riding, where patients are helped through horsemanship and riding activities. Therapeutic Carriage Driving provides the opportunity for patients who cannot ride to harness and drive a horse from a cart or carriage. RTT also offers Equine Assisted Learning, where interaction with the horse, both mounted and unmounted, helps in the development of life skills, and Hippotherapy, where the horse’s movement is used as a therapy tool.

“For many individuals who struggle in traditional therapy, medical or classroom settings, time spent at the farm is frequently life-changing due to RTT’s natural, nurturing and non-medical environment,” Johnson said. “Teachers and family members, along with medical and mental health providers, tell us that RTT has a significant impact on the lives of children with disabilities and that the farm is a safe and trusted setting.”

RTT will also be hosting their 18th annual Triple B ~ Boots, Bands & BBQ at the facility on Saturday, Oct. 17.

“This is our largest fundraiser of the year and focuses on raising money for our rider scholarships and horse care funds,” Johnson said. “It’s an evening of dinner, dancing, a bucket raffle and a mission-based auction led by auctioneer, Elizabeth Ross.”

To learn more about RTT, its programs, to make a donation, or to inquire about volunteering, visit www.ridingtothetop.org or call 207-892-2813.

Details about the Good Life Market can be found at https://www.thegoodlifemarket.com/ <

Maine's public universities to award college credit for career-aligned high school microcredentials

AUGUSTA – As part of its efforts to promote postsecondary access, upward mobility, and the growth of the state's workforce, the University of Maine System (UMS) will award academic credit for microcredentials earned by high school students through Jobs for Maine's Graduates (JMG).

Through the agreement announced today, Maine's public universities will award up to eight college credits for microcredentials earned through JMG that demonstrate mastery of competencies and skills in high demand, including financial and digital literacy, entrepreneurship, and leadership development.

"This historic agreement between Maine's public universities and JMG will strengthen aspirations, access and degree attainment while reducing student debt and time to a door-opening college degree and meaningful, good-paying career," said UMS Chancellor Dannel Malloy. "JMG's microcredentials demonstrate a student's college-level learning and skill development in critical areas necessary to their future success and the growth of the state's workforce. Our System has rigorously evaluated them and is proud to accept them for credit as part of our ongoing efforts to create more college and career pathways that promote upward mobility and Maine's employers and economy."

To meet the workforce needs of the state, Maine has set a goal that by 2035, some 70 percent of working-age adults will hold postsecondary credentials that lead to good jobs. The state has made considerable progress over the past decade, thanks in large part to Maine's public universities expanding college access through early college, direct and guaranteed admissions, online offerings, adult degree completion initiatives, and region-leading affordability. Still, just 55.5 percent of Mainers hold a high-value credential, even as automation raises the premium employers place on durable human skills such as leadership, communication, and judgment.

Under the new program, JMG students can earn UMS credit for eight career-readiness credentials: Leadership Development, Personal Growth, Entrepreneurial Mindset, Multicultural Foundations, Pathway Navigation, Job and Career Readiness, Financial Literacy, and Digital Literacy. Students earn the credentials over multiple years of high school as portable digital badges, with the exact number of credits and course designation set by each UMS university.

Because most of JMG's more than 13,000 annual students do not enter the program planning to attend college, the agreement gives young people who may never have considered a degree the chance to leave high school with credit already in hand.

It is the first time faculty governance groups at Maine's public universities have agreed to accept microcredentials for college credit. The evaluation process used for the JMG short courses was consistent with that already used within the System to award credit for prior learning, such as work and military experience.

The partnership builds on JMG's three decades of programming across all 16 Maine counties and its long-standing partnerships with Maine's public universities, where JMG college success advisors are embedded. The approach is already drawing interest from other states through Generation US (GenUS), a national nonprofit launched by JMG. The same model is now being considered by education systems in Kansas, Kentucky, West Virginia, and Wisconsin.

JMG partners with public education and private businesses to provide results-driven solutions to ensure all Maine students graduate, attain postsecondary credentials, and pursue meaningful careers, including right here in RSU 14. Serving more than 13,000 students statewide each year, JMG offers on ramps from sixth grade through age 24 to nearly 150 programs embedded in public schools, career and technical education centers, and on every campus in the University of Maine System and the Maine Community College System.

"We've watched too many students walk into our classrooms who never once saw college as a realistic option for themselves," said JMG President and CEO Kimberley Acker Lipp. "Maine can't afford that anymore. We're the oldest state in the country, and we need more young people to stay and build careers here. Now a student can graduate from high school having already earned eight college credits. That changes the math for a 16-year-old who is considering whether college is within reach."

For more information, please visit gen-us.org and jmg.org. <

Cub Scouts a first step in child’s journey to become a responsible citizen

By Josh Smeltzer
Special to The Windham Eagle

For going on 39 years, Cub Scouts Pack 805 has served the Town of Windham and the Sebago Lakes Region with the aim of building character, citizenship, personal fitness, and leadership in children.

Members of Cub Scouts Pack 805 get ready to march in the
annual Windham Summerfest Parade in June. At 6:30 p.m.
on Monday, Sept. 14, Pack 805 will offer an Open House
and Registration event at St. Ann's Episcopal Church in
Windham for kids and families to learn more about
Cub Scouts programs in Windham. 
SUBMITTED PHOTO 
 

According to Pack 805 Cubmaster Mike Chickering, scouting teaches children positive character traits such as being courteous, helpful, and loyal, while fostering new friendships, learning about the outdoors, and serving the community.

At 6:30 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 14, Cub Scouts Pack 805 will conduct its annual Open House/Registration Night at St. Ann’s Episcopal Church, 40 Windham Center Road in Windham. There will be a cookout, games for kids, and a chance for parents and guardians to ask about the Cub Scouts program in Windham.

This summer, Pack 805 assisted the Windham Veterans Center with a U.S. flag retirement ceremony, hiked Knights Pond Preserve, did a night hike up Bradbury Mountain, held a food drive for the Windham Food Pantry, went camping, visited Aquaboggan and participated in many more activities.

For this coming school year, Cub Scouts will go hiking, camping, and ice fishing, collect food for donation and gather clothing and toys for those in need, present the colors at a Maine Mariners professional hockey game, go candlepin bowling, participate in the annual Pinewood Derby races and other events.

Past years have included scouting activities like air rifle and archery instruction at Camp Hinds in Raymond, bike rodeos, rock climbing, and hosted presentations like Mad Science and Mr. Drew and His Animals Too.

“The scout motto is ‘Do Your Best’ and that’s what the kids learn.” said former Pack 805 Cubmaster Casey Melanson. “Cub Scouts can do anything they put their minds to. We have gone winter camping, hiking, ice fishing, and built lean-tos in the woods. We also have our annual Pinewood Derby where kids design and build their own cars and then compete against one another. As a pack we have had beach outings, cookouts, movie nights, and EVO Rock Gym overnights.”

Joining the Cub Scouts is the first step in a journey to become a responsible citizen who cares about their neighbors and the community.

“We want our scouts to learn what it means to be part of something important, what it means to help their community, make new friends, build relationships, and to have fun,” Melanson said.

The Cub Scout uniforms consist of a shirt, a rank neckerchief, and a rank slide. Pants and rank hats are optional. Scouts are encouraged to have a belt (not necessarily a scout belt) to be able to display their beltloop achievements. Each scout is issued a handbook for each rank so they will be able to learn, perform, and complete each achievement and scout activities emphasize having fun and learning useful life skills.

Pack 805 Cub Scout activities and adventures are centered around earning merit badges that are specific to each school grade level. Each badge represents a rank and advancement and refers to the progress a Cub Scout makes toward their badge of rank.

Assistant Cubmaster Kayla Desmond said that Pack 805 Cub Scouts dues are highly affordable and go toward scout activities, awards, national and local Cub Scout registrations, and insurance.

Desmond said that Pack 805 conducts a variety of fundraising activities throughout the year to offset costs to keep expenses for parents at a minimum.

Windham parents should consider having their child join Cub Scout Pack 805 because it helps them to work on self-growth, and to not be afraid to try new things, Desmond said.

“We want our scouts to learn what it means to be part of something important, what it means to help their community, make new friends, build relationships, and to have fun,” she said.

For more information about Windham Cub Scout Pack 805, send an email to [email protected] or visit www.beascout.org. <

Free Touch A Truck event returning to Windham

By Ed Pierce

Kids will enjoy the opportunity to explore vehicles of all types while parents will appreciate that the event is free as once again the Windham Lions Club will host its popular Touch A Truck event in North Windham next month.

The 7th annual Windham Lions Touch A Truck event will be
held from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Sept. 12 in the parking lot
behind Hannaford Supermarket in Windham. The event is
free but donations benefit causes that the Windham Lions
Club supports throughout the year. COURTESY PHOTO

The 7th annual Windham Lions Touch A Truck will be held from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Sept. 12 in the parking lot behind Hannaford off Route 302 in North Windham. Although admission is free, donations will be greatly appreciated as proceeds benefit a variety of Windham Lions Club programs year-round in the Windham community.

During this year’s Touch A Truck event, children and families will be able to climb into the cab of a fire truck, see the inside of a police car, explore land excavators, dump trucks, snowplows, cement mixers, and much more. There will be many large vehicles on hand from throughout the community for kids to inspect, climb into the driver’s seat, and honk the horn.

Free water will be supplied by Poland Springs to Touch A Truck participants and snacks will be available.

“As with all events we hold, all profits are returned to our Windham community,” says Bob Simmons of the Windham Lions Club. “One of our local businesses started us off with a gift to raffle off and others joined in. This added feature will hopefully help us to raise more money. Our intentions have always been that our Touch A Truck adds enjoyment to the children and their families that come to our event. However, the raffle could help us raise more funds as we try to help as many families as possible through our Adopt-A-Family program during the holidays as well as other activities throughout the year.”

Simmons says that members of the Windham Lions Club are grateful for the participation of Windham agencies and local businesses that have helped make this event possible.

“The Touch A Truck event provides a hands-on educational community event to see and touch the trucks and machinery used in the community and to meet the men and women who operate these machines,” Simmons said. “Participating vehicles will be displayed in a safe, supervised environment and it’s the perfect venue for exploring the machinery while learning about the people who build, protect and serve Windham.”

Former Windham Lions Club President Evelyn Brissett is credited helping to launch the event.

“I had done some research online and it seemed like Touch A Truck would be a fun way to interact with kids and people in our community,” she said. “We also want our community to be aware that the Windham Lions Club does exist and with everyone’s help we can make life a lot brighter for those less fortunate.”

Brissette said that since the Windham Lions Club staged its first Touch A Truck, the event has exceeded all expectations in terms of participation and the Windham community’s willingness to help others.

According to Simmons, the Windham Lions Club works throughout the year to uplift the community, such as providing Christmas gifts for local students and families in need and contributing donations for worthwhile school activities such as Odyssey of the Mind, and scholarships for Windham High School students.

He said that when Windham residents take an interest in their own community, and work together for a cause, they can make a significant difference.

All proceeds from this year’s Touch A Truck event, coupled with the club’s annual Stuff-the-Bus event in November will go a long way to helping those in need in Windham, Simmons said.

Since its founding, the Windham Lions Club has played a significant charitable role in the community, supporting a variety of causes and issues affecting the lives of residents.

Some of those include purchasing and manning Windham’s first rescue van in 1968; significant donations to the Windham Public Library; helping with expenses related to eye exams and eyeglasses for participants when they meet the Lions Club criteria; assisting with expenses related to hearing tests and hearing aids when they meet the Lions Club criteria; conducting RSU 14 eye screening with more than 5,500 students screened to date; sponsoring the “Student of the Month” program in local schools; Breakfast with Santa; the annual Stuff-the-Bus program with more than 10,000 pounds of food collected for those in need; supporting the Windham Veteran’s Center; and collecting used eye glasses and hearing aids for those in need. <

SMAA receives $99,731 grant to expand dementia respite care

Southern Maine Agency on Aging has been awarded $99,731 from the Alzheimer’s Association Center for Dementia Respite Innovation (CDRI) to enhance the quality and availability of dementia-specific respite care for people living with dementia and their caregivers across York and Cumberland counties.

Southern Maine Agency on Aging is among 34 organizations nationwide selected to receive grant funding. The award will support the launch of Dementia Respite Without Walls, a community-based pilot designed to bring respite services directly to rural communities where families may face transportation challenges or have limited access to center-based programs.

The pilot will provide weekly, four-hour respite sessions in familiar community settings such as churches, grange halls, and community rooms. Two 12-week cohorts will serve approximately 12 to 24 people living with dementia while giving their caregivers dependable time for rest, appointments, errands, or other needs.

An open house will be held from 8 a.m. to noon on Tuesday, Sept. 15 at the Casco Community Center, 940 Meadow Road in Casco.

Interested participants need to be screened prior to attending the Open House. To be screened, they need to contact Adult Day Program manager Nicole Garrity at 207-396-6508 or send an email to [email protected].

“Caring for someone living with dementia can be demanding, especially for families in rural communities where respite services may be difficult to access,” said Megan Walton, President and CEO of Southern Maine Agency on Aging. “This grant will allow us to bring trusted, dementia-specific support closer to home while giving caregivers time to care for their own health and well-being.”

Dementia Respite Without Walls will bring trained staff, individualized care planning, and therapeutic activities into each community. Portable engagement kits will allow staff to provide meaningful activities adapted to each member’s interests and abilities. The initiative will also include caregiver support, volunteer training, community partnerships, and program evaluation, with the goal of developing a model that can be replicated in other rural communities.

In conjunction with the grant, Southern Maine Agency on Aging will receive online training and ongoing technical assistance from the CDRI to ensure respite services are dementia-capable and to support sustainability. The CDRI will also collect data and evaluate the impact of projects from all grant recipients to inform public policy.

“We congratulate Southern Maine Agency on Aging on this award and look forward to partnering with their team to expand access to dementia-specific respite care,” said Lauren Stratton, director, psychosocial research and program evaluation at the Alzheimer’s Association. “Each funded program contributes to a growing national network of innovative respite models, helping advance sustainable solutions that better support caregivers and people living with dementia in communities across the country.” 

The Alzheimer’s Association created the CDRI in 2024 after receiving a $25 million grant from the Administration for Community Living (ACL), a division of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Through this initiative, the CDRI is distributing $25 million over five years to local respite providers and organizations to enhance the quality and availability of respite care nationwide. Visit alz.org/cdri to see the full list of this year’s grant recipients.

About Southern Maine Agency on Aging

Southern Maine Agency on Aging supports older adults, adults with disabilities, and caregivers throughout York and Cumberland counties. Through services including caregiver support, Adult Day Programs, Meals on Wheels, Medicare counseling, and information and resources, the organization helps people maintain their independence and quality of life. To learn more, visit www.smaaa.org.

Funding Disclosure

This project is supported by the Administration for Community Living (ACL), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), as part of a financial assistance award totaling $18,228,216, with 75 percent funded by ACL/HHS, and $4,941,389, with 25 percent funded by non-government sources. The contents are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement by, ACL/HHS or the U.S. Government. <

Through-Year Assessment Data shows continued student test score growth

AUGUSTA – The Maine Department of Education (DOE) recently received the verified aggregate data from Maine’s Through Year Summative Assessment, and Maine students’ average Rasch Unit (RIT) percentile scores are at and above the most recent MAP Growth National Achievement Norms.

Maine's Through Year Summative Assessment and student
Rasch Unit percentile testing scores are at and above the
2025 national testing scores. PHOTO BY ED PIERCE  

The 2025 achievement norms were established using scores from approximately 13.8 million students nationwide over the course of two years.

Maine students’ average summative achievement scores on the Through-Year Assessment have also increased every year since 2023, marking a positive trend that contributes to a much broader picture of student success.

The 2024 National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) state score estimates have received a great deal of media coverage over the past 18 months, with multiple new studies and reports continuing to recycle the same data from that testing event every few weeks.

Maine’s 2024 NAEP score estimates were disappointing and continued a slow decline that began in 2011.

Maine DOE officials say that while NAEP and the Through-Year Assessment both provide some information about student performance in Math and Reading, the two assessments are very different, and the data they offer are produced in very different ways.

NAEP uses a random sample of about 1,700 fourth and eighth grade students per test and creates what the National Center on Education Statistics (NCES) calls state “score estimates.” The score estimates are actually a statistical projection that assumes that all students in the state would perform at a level similar to the sampled students.

The Through-Year Assessment, on the other hand, is taken by more than 85,000 Maine students (every student in grades 3 to 8 and in grade 10). Unlike NAEP, the Through-Year Assessment provides student-level data and school-level scores that can be used by teachers to give parents a better understanding how their child is performing and by the state in determining levels of support through the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA).

Experts caution against using standardized test scores alone to evaluate the success of schools, policies, or programs, recognizing that these data provide just a glimpse into the much bigger picture. Local assessments, teacher observations, passed course rates, and graduation rates, for example, offer information that builds toward a more complete picture of academic performance.

In Maine’s statewide Measure What Matters outreach, Maine DOE has heard from business leaders, educators, parents, and community members that the people of Maine prioritize active, applied learning; project based and “real world” projects; creativity, adaptability, and other durable skills that will prepare students for success in a dynamic future landscape. <

Maine registered fishing guide offers presentation at Raymond-Casco Historical Society

By Sue Pride
Special to The Windham Eagle

At 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 18, the Raymond-Casco Historical Society, located at the corner of Route 302 and 1 Shadow Lane in Casco, will host a free event featuring Registered Maine Guide Glen Gisel.

This evening program will be of interest to anyone who has experienced the joy of fishing, whether you are a weekend angler, a youngster hoping to catch your first fish, or an experienced sportsman.

Gisel has spent a lifetime enjoying Maine’s waters and says, “I have had a passion for fishing, boating, and being on the water since I was a young boy.,” It’s a passion he now enjoys as his vocation.

We all have valuable “good old fish memories, like the family time out in the boat with your dad, out with the guys, out with the girls, camp memories, the one that got away, and of course the one that was this big! Our daughter at age 5 was so excited catching her very first fish with a piece of ham from her lunch sandwich as bait.

Everyone has great fishing stories. Glen Gisel is no exception and his experience, and his fishing knowledge will make for an engaging evening for all who attend.

The Raymond-Casco Historical Society is excited to announce plans for a new exhibit on the vital resource of Sebago Lake to the Lakes Region for its environment, economy, recreation, and history. This exhibit is scheduled for completion by 2028, and will include the Landlocked Atlantic Salmon, Sebago Lake, Panther Pond, Casco and Raymond Hatcheries, fly fishing artifacts, and so much more.

The Society will be aided in this project by fishing historian Pete Leitner, who will assist in framing and preserving artifacts, photos, and historical documents for the exhibit. The display will explore the Paleo-Indian period, early settlers, the sporting industry, local Maine fishing guides, today’s anglers and fly fishermen.

Anyone who may have artifacts, photographs, fishing equipment, documents, or other items they would consider donating to this exhibit is encouraged to contact Raymond-Casco Historical Society, P.O. Box 1055, Raymond, ME 04071, call 207- 655-6389, or visit the RCHS campus on Saturday and Sundays from noon to 3 p.m. through September.

All events are free and we gladly accept any donations in order to keep bringing you these varied and interesting events.

Follow the Raymond-Casco Historical Society on Facebook and visit www.raymondcascohistoricalsociety.org for scheduled events, news, and photos. <

Outdoor films ‘under the stars’ at Hacker’s Hill

Loon Echo Land Trust (LELT) will host the Maine Outdoor Film Festival (MOFF) at Hacker’s Hill in Casco at 7:45 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 14.

The Maine Outdoor Film Festival (MOFF) will be held at
Hacker's Hill in Casco at 7:45 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 14. The
event includes seven short films and is open to the public.
SUBMITTED PHOTO  

In addition to its flagship festival in Portland, the Maine Outdoor Film Festival tours Maine with specially curated screenings of films about the outdoors, conservation, and recreation. This is the eighth year in a row LELT has hosted a screening at Hacker’s Hill, which is owned and managed by the Bridgton-based organization.

The film program to be shown at Hacker's Hill will include seven short films and will last an hour and a half.

The event is free and open to the public. There is a suggested donation of $10 per adult to benefit LELT, the stewardship of Hacker’s Hill, and land conservation efforts in the Lakes Region of Maine.

The films will begin at 7:45 p.m. but attendees are invited to come early to watch the sunset.

Attendees should bring a blanket or chair, warm layers, and a flashlight.

For more information and the full film program, visit maineoutdoorfilmfestival.com/2026-casco.

Notification of cancellation due to inclement weather will be posted on the Loon Echo Land Trust Facebook page.

Loon Echo Land Trust, founded in 1987, is a community-supported 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.

The organization currently conserves over 9,300 acres of land and manages a 35-mile trail network across the Lake Region.

For more details about LELT properties, upcoming events, or how to get involved, visit LELT.org or their Facebook page. <

Windham bakery feeds neighbors in need

By Erin Rose

Hailey’s Kitchen has been working to help ensure that no one in Windham goes hungry.

Hailey's Kitchen in Windham established a 
food pantry after thousands of Mainers lost
SNAP benefits right before Thanksgiving
last fall and the bakery took donations to
help provide meals to those in need in
the community. COURTESY PHOTO

The bakery established a food pantry after SNAP benefits were cut before Thanksgiving last year and spent several months taking donations and funds to help provide meals to those in need in the community.

“People went without food when it’s a holiday built around food after benefits were slashed,” said Rebecca Willis-Coffin, the owner of Hailey’s Kitchen. “I had so many people bring in turkeys, canned goods, and they put in so much effort to support others.”

In total, the public donated at least 50 turkeys, and many included all the fixings to go with them, including vegetables and other sides to accompany the bird. Someone even thought to buy mayonnaise for the inevitable turkey sandwiches that come from Thanksgiving leftovers, Willis-Coffin said.

One of the largest donations was $500 from Paul’s Boutique, a recreational cannabis dispensary in Windham.

“They brought turkeys and bags of onions, potatoes, squash, apples,” Willis -Coffin said. “They brought so much and were my biggest single donator.”

The food pantry at Hailey’s grew so popular that the bakery ran out of storage room for the donated food.

“I had to call people to come and pick up their food now because I couldn’t store it,” Willis-Coffin said. “I had so much in there.”

The donated meals expanded into donations of breakfast sandwiches, tracked by Post-it notes which were pasted on the bakery’s walls. Soon, the walls of the storefront were covered in pastel notes, each one designating a breakfast sandwich that was pre-purchased by members of the public. Anyone in need of a meal was welcome to come by and take a Post-It and present it to receive a free sandwich.

“I said, ‘if anyone needs something to eat, just come in and we’ll feed you’,” Willis-Coffin said. “People brought in money and pre-purchased meals for people in need.”

The food pantry and free meal program ended in June, as the busy summer season takes up too much of the bakery’s operations to be able to support both.

“We had so many people right up until June,” Willis-Coffin said. “Then I said that you’ll have to rely on the Windham Food Pantry because we just don’t have the time and staff in the kitchen to do it all.”

The bakery still receives support from the community, as many people who have donated continue to purchase baked goods from the business.

“I’m glad that a lot of them still come in every week,” Willis-Coffin said. “They really take care of us.”

The program may be suspended for the season, but Willis-Coffin still maintains one Post-It on the cash register, as she will never let anyone go hungry.

“Even though I ask that you use the food pantry when we’re busy, I still do love my community and fully support my community and will always take care of my community,” Willis-Coffin said.

“It’s been unbelievable for me,” she said. “I’m just offering a sandwich or just providing a turkey meal for my neighbors. It’s what we should do.”

National news outlets, including MSNBC, covered the bakery’s efforts and helped show that good works can draw the community together.

“The news coverage was amazing because it just goes to show that a feel-good story really does win,” Willis-Coffin said. “And it really does matter when someone does something positive for the community.”

“The community will rally around that and not just say ‘oh that’s nice’ and move on,” she said.

The coverage also expanded the range from which people were donating to the efforts, leading people from outside the area to provide funds for food.

“I had people drive from Massachusetts to donate money for sandwiches and for turkeys,” Willis-Coffin said. “They wanted to see me in person.”

Willis-Coffin has been encouraged by seeing the community come together to support the bakery’s efforts.

“You saw the keyboard bullies, celebrating the removal of people’s SNAP benefits. And I saw the opposite side,” Willis-Coffin said. “I saw the most beautiful people come into my café and just give from the heart.”

Hailey’s Bakery was started in 2017 as a project for Willis-Coffin’s son, Alex, who began home schooling after suffering from intense anxiety in fourth grade. The bakery helped him learn new skills, all while enjoying baking.

“Eventually, he just said, I’m all set. You’re on your own,” Willis-Coffin said, explaining that Alex returned to public school as a freshman at Windham High School. He recently graduated and will be attending College of the Atlantic in the fall.

The bakery is a family enterprise, as all of Willis-Coffin’s children help out and work at the bakery, and even those not related by blood are counted as members of her family. Willis-Coffin says she has five children, as Alex’s best friend Olyver has become a part of her family as well.

“I’ve been pretty blessed in this endeavor,” she said. “My kids work with me, and I get to see them every day. Their growth with this business is just amazing and we’re a little family here. It makes me almost feel like I am just doing the job of somebody who isn’t doing their job in public office. We should have safety nets that never fail around food. When I was interviewed by MSNBC, they used my quote as their headline which was how can we call this a civilized country if we’re allowing citizens to go hungry? I’m using my powers for good.” <