Hello friends and neighbors!

Has anyone lost a gray furry friend that meows? Our Deputy Animal Control Officer, Gary Webber, found a gray male tabby cat on East Shore Road on Aug. 22. Said cat is safely in the Lincoln County Animal Shelter, waiting for his parents to come and pick him up! Please let me know if a reunion takes place! I hate to think about being separated from my fur baby.

Westport Island will be hopping in September! It’s a great time of the year to be outdoors, so we hope to see folks at some of these events. Next Monday, Sept. 4, is Labor Day, a holiday that reminds us to celebrate the contributions of hard working people in the past, present, and future. In honor of the day, the Westport Island Democrats are sponsoring a free picnic for the public at the Old Town Hall from noon to 3 p.m. There will be grilled burgers and hot dogs, many side dishes, watermelon, desserts, and beverages. Games will be available for both kids and adults. Bring something to share if you like, or just come on down for the picnic to visit with your neighbors.

The following Sunday, Sept. 10, the 13th annual Westport Island Shore 10K Road Race will take place at the Old Town Hall. You can register online at www.westportisland.org, or just show up and pick up your bib that morning after 7:30 a.m. The 3.5 mile “fun walk” will start at 8:30, and the USATF-certified race will begin at 9. The course runs through beautiful woods and over two scenic waterways. The race benefits the Westport Fire Department, who will be standing by to help that day. Come to walk, run, or cheer on the runners at this family event!

Saturday, Sept. 16, the 19th annual Westport Island Artisans Guild Show will take place at the Old Town Hall from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. You are sure to find something interesting and lovingly handmade at the show. It’s not too early to think about the gift giving season on the horizon!

The Westport Community Association is working in conjunction with the History and Cemetery Committees to host a first ever Cemetery Tour of the Island on Saturday, Sept. 23. Out of approximately 70 cemeteries, eight sites have been chosen for their historical significance and easy access. Meet at the Old Town Hall at 10 a.m., where you will join a guided tour. The event is anticipated to last approximately two hours. The tour is free and refreshments will follow. All are welcome to learn something about the unique history of Westport.

On Saturday afternoon, Sept. 23, from 1-5 p.m., head over to Ames True Value to help raise funds for Team Casco on their way to the World Championship Dock Dog Competition in Knoxville, Tennessee. Erin Bailey and her amazing black lab Casco will be there to meet you and sell some delicious baked goods. This past weekend at LL Bean’s Dog Days of Summer Competition, we witnessed Casco jump an amazing 22’3” in pursuit of his favorite toy! After all was said and done, Team Casco placed third in Speed Retrieve and Big Air Pro Finals, and second as the Iron Dog competitor in all three events. Congratulations Team Casco!

It sure is nice having a newly paved road on the Island. Those of us who bicycle especially appreciate the smooth ride. Please be considerate of everyone as we share the same lanes. If there is something you would like to publicize or if you are reunited with a feline friend, please let your newshound know at pat-dick@midcoast.com.