Coming home from one of Maine’s great agricultural fairs after dark recently, we stepped out of the car and heard a distinct, high-pitched “peep” overhead in the dark sky.

It sounded like a spring peeper, but we knew otherwise. It was the call of a night-migrating bird related to the American robin but a little smaller — a Swainson’s thrush.

What regular readers of this column know that most other people don’t is that most birds migrate at night.

There are a number of theories as to why they do so. One is that night migrants escape the dangers posed by bird-eating hawks (merlins and sharp-shinned hawks, for example) that migrate during the day.

Another idea is that since birds can use the stars to orient, it’s easier for them to navigate more precisely at night. Yet another thought is that the atmosphere is cooler and often less turbulent at night, enabling birds to use less energy as they flying long distances at night.

The Swainson’s thrushes that migrate over us in Maine each night this time of year are among the millions heading south from their breeding range, which extends from northern Maine across much of Canada and into Alaska (they also nest in the western mountains south to California).

Their destination is the Andes Mountains region of northern South America, where they will spend the winter among parrots and antwrens and monkeys and other exotic creatures.

If you go out in the evening or in the early morning as they are descending from a night of migration and you listen closely, focusing on sounds coming from the sky, you may hear a Swainson’s thrush. Its close cousin, the gray-cheeked thrush, occurs now as well and sounds like a snappy, nasal “wheer.”

Listen more intently and you will become aware of other higher and shorter sounds, too. The really, really short calls are typically warblers; they could be any of the 20 or so species that regularly migrate through Maine.

Slightly longer “tseet” calls are typically those of the dozen or so sparrow species that can commonly occur in migration. Shorebirds and waterfowl also migrate at night, so you could hear them as well and will be more easily recognizable since they give the same sounds during the day as they do during their night migration.

Once you start keying into the sounds of night migration, you may be surprised by the variety you hear.

As we learned once we started tuning in, it could forever change the way you think about, and listen to, the night sky.

Hear a Swainson’s thrush by clicking here.

It's that time of year again. It’s time to break out the light layers and trade sipping frosty lemonade on hot afternoons for savoring hot cocoa on chilly mornings.

Best of all, it's that time when Mother Nature dresses her very best. If your fall spirit is kicking in and you're anxious to take in some glorious autumn foliage before it's gone, consider bringing along your favorite four-legged friend.

He'll enjoy seeing the sites, but most of all he'll love getting some fresh air and exercise with his favorite human.

Wiscasset selectmen will wade into some of their new assessing duties Tuesday, Oct. 1, in a board meeting that starts at 6 p.m. at the municipal building.

The Wiscasset Area Chamber of Commerce kicks off its fall Business After Hours series with a Thursday, Oct. 3, gathering at the Wiscasset Public Library. Businesspeople enjoy refreshments and networking at the events. For more information, contact the chamber at 207-882-9600 or info@wiscassetchamber.com.

The First Congregational Church in Wiscasset will ring in autumn with its Oktoberfest on the church lawn Saturday, Oct. 5. Look for crafts and foods including Bratwurst, sauerkraut, apples, pumpkins, and baked goods to all be available.

Charlie and his Angels didn’t win the Boothbay Charity Golf Classic on September 28.

Neither did the scrambling five-person golf teams headed by former Miami Dolphins kicker Garo Yepiemian and former hometown golf pro Scott Price, although they were listed on the scoreboard as being in first place in the low gross and low net categories.

“The real winners were the Maine Special Olympics kids,” said Brenda Blackman, the event’s co-chairman. Blackman presented the charity with a check for $37,000.

There were 165 players on 33 teams in the 23rd edition of this event held at the Boothbay Harbor Country Club.

Dozens of unpaid volunteers work much of the year, rounding up prizes for the auction, convincing folks and hotel managers to provide lodging for dozens of the former pro athletes, including former New York Yankee manager Carl “Stump” Merrill and former Baltimore Colts/Oakland Raider Ted “The Mad Stork” Hendricks.

Unlike other “celebrity” events, the former athletes are not paid to attend the Boothbay event, although they receive travel expenses.

“They tell us they love the event and the Maine Special Olympics is a cause near and dear to the hearts of these former pro athletes,” Blackman said. Many of them have come up here for years. They say they love the town and the people, she said.

For Charley Johnson, 75, who played for three NFL teams over a 15-year career with St. Louis, Houston and Denver, it was a chance to exercise his old bones and to try to sort out his somewhat limited golf swing.

“I used to have a 9 handicap and now I am a 29,” he said. His career earned him all-pro status, nine knee operations and a hip replacement, all while throwing 170 touchdowns in 165 games, he said.

While his golf swing is limited, his putting stroke is still solid. He read the greens for his team and helped them to sink a few long puts. But he declined to claim credit for his team’s success.

“It was my team, Charley’s Angels, that made our team respectable,” he said.

A trio of fine golfers, Kathy Heaton, Gail Blanchard and Pat Heiges were the “angels” on Johnson’s team. Their long hitting skills put the group in position to score pars and birdies. The fourth member of the team, Josh Taylor, played a more supporting role, much as did Detective John Bosley in the 1970s TV series, “Charlie’s Angels.”

In addition to his football skills, which earned him a slot in the Pro Bowl and in the Denver Bronco’s Ring of Honor, Johnson earned a master’s and a doctorate in chemical engineering during his time in St. Louis.

After he retired from the sport, he was hired by his alma mater, New Mexico State, as a professor and department head. He still lives near the college in Las Cruces, N.M.

It is the sixth time he has attended the event. He is quick to explain how much he loves Boothbay and the golf event. He has special memories for his association and friendship with the late Boothbay Harbor waterman Charlie Begin.

“He was a good guy,” Johnson said. “A real, good guy. I miss him.”

It was a nice fall day last Saturday, Sept. 28 and fans came to see their favorite drivers race, knowing there was only one week left of the racing season at Wiscasset Speedway.

On the agenda was the full lineup of both groups, and all divisions raced.

Starting at the pole in the 30-lap Prostock feature was Adam Chadbourne driving the No. 28. Behind him were the No. 02 of Shane Lane and the No. 66 of Eric Allyn. When the green went down, car No. 0 driven by Billy Penfold pulled ahead of Allyn to take third. Penfold continued his advance up the track passing Lane on the inside of the backstretch during lap one for second.

Lap two saw the No. 72 of Charlie Colby move to the inside and pass Lane for third. Colby looked for his opportunity to pass Penfold. His chance came in lap four and he passed Penfold to take second. Colby turned his eyes to the head of the pack and chased down Chadbourne to take the lead during lap five, passing on the outside of turn four.

There was a caution during lap eight when the No. 17 of Gary Thorne caught fire. There was a scramble for position at the restart. Chadbourne and Penfold each struggled for position. Then Penfold passed Chadbourne on the inside of the back stretch and took second. 

The No. 3 of Mike Orr was moving up from behind. During lap nineteen he moved to the outside of Chadbourne and the pair fought for third. Chadbourne held him off for nine laps. Then Orr saw a chance to pass Chadbourne on the outside going down the back stretch, and took third after a hard fought battle. Colby took first place. This was Colby’s first victory at Wiscasset Speedway this season. In Victory Lane Colby said, “I’m really happy Richard and his wife opened this place. I’d like to thank my crew, my wife, Chuck, Tyler, and Lexis.”

Penfold placed second. This is Penfold’s 12th top five finish at Wiscasset. Penfold said, “I have been trying to show people that you can run a car inexpensively and still be competitive. Once you get the car going good, you just maintain it and we have been doing really good. I would like to thank my girlfriend, Diana, Oxford Auto Salvage, and my crew, Kim and Scott.”

Rounding out the top three was Orr. This was Orr’s fourth top three finish at Wiscasset this season.

After the races, there was a season celebration for drivers and Speedway staff and families. There were also awards for drivers and staff, and the Napa Driver of the Year was announced. An Integrity Award was presented to Adam Chadbourne. A Promoter Award was given to pace car driver, Bill Pierce. The Napa Driver of the Year was awarded to James Osmond.

The Speedway tracked finishes this season, and a driver in each racing division was given recognition for the “Best Average Finish.” The Best Average Finish Awards were presented to: Kevin Sherman in Thunder 4s, George Fortin in Outlaw Mini, Jeff Schmidt in Mini Truck, James Osmond in Super Stock, Nick Hinkley in Late Model Sportsman, Billy Penfold in Prostock, and a tie for Strictly Streets between Guy Childs and Tasha Dyer. The New England 4-Cylinder Prostock gave an award to Jeff Prindall, as they were an independent racing group.

Wiscasset Speedway resumes racing action October 5 with its “Fall Fury.” This is an open competition “run what you brung” event. There will be a full lineup of both divisions: Prostock, Thunder 4, New England 4-cylinder Prostock, Super Stock, Late Model Sportsman, Trucks, Mini Outlaw, and Strictly Street. There will be a 100-lap Enduro race, and rules can be found on the Wiscasset Speedway website.

Additionally, the Wicked Good Vintage Racers and the Nelcar Legends will race. There will be a $5 pit gate fee for Fall Fury, and all proceeds from Fall Fury will go toward purchasing an infield scoreboard for next season. Pit gates open at 7 a.m., Grandstand gates open at 10 a.m. and racing begins at noon. Admission is $5 for adults and children aged seven and older. Kids six and under are free. Wiscasset Speedway is located on West Alna Road in Wiscasset. For more information, head to the Wiscasset Speedway website at: www.wiscassetspeedway.com.

Top Five Finishers

Thunder 4’S (15 laps): 1. #5 Ryan Chadwick, Wiscasset; 2. #13 Cody Tribbet, Richmond; 3. #20 Dan Trask, Chelsea; 4. #31 Leandra Martin, Richmond; 5. #04 Curtis Anderson, Richmond

Trucks (15 laps): 1. #88 Kris Knox. Sanford; 2. #12 Gerry McKenna, Milton; 3. #68 Roger Allard, Harpswell; 4. #1 Matt Curtis, Freeport; 5. #22 Jeff Schmidt, Mechanic Falls

New England 4 Cylinder Prostocks (25 laps): 1. #12 Dave Patten, Windham; 2. #54 Kamren Knowles, Readfield; 3. #24 Jeff Prindall, Lisbon Falls; 4. #38 Ryan Hayes, Jefferson; 5. #14 Bob Patten, Windham

Prostock (30 laps): 1. #72 Charlie Colby, Newcastle; 2. #0 Billy Penfold, Oxford; 3. #3 Mike Orr, Wiscasset; 4. #28 Adam Chadbourne, Woolwich; 5. #77 Steve Reny, Boothbay

Outlaw Mini (25 laps): 1. #10 Jimmy Childs, Leeds; 2. #7 Darrel Moore, Oxford; 3. #2X Rob Greenleaf, West Bath; 4. #13 Nate Tribbet, Richmond; 5. #69 Ryan Farrar, Sumner

Super Stock (20 laps): 1. #87 Chuck Colby, Newcastle; 2. #2 Josh Bailey, Wiscasset; 3. #05 James Osmond, Wiscasset; 4. #3 Bobby Mesimer, Woolwich; 5. #1 Adam Chadbourne, Woolwich

Late Model Sportsman (35 laps): 1. #15 Nick Hinkley, Wiscasset; 2. #04 Allan Moeller Sr., Dresden; 3. #32 Nick Jenkins, Brownville; 4. #34 Tyler Robbins, Montville; 5. #28 Steve Minott, Windham

Strictly Street (20 laps): 1. #1 Mike Moody, Topsham; 2. #43 Ben Erskine, Farmington; 3. #33X Steve Pierpont, Cushing; 4. #13 Chuck Gray, Wiscasset; 5. #06 Zach Poland, Woolwich

Although a senior's homecoming can be a bittersweet affair, it was mostly sweet for Wiscasset and senior Sarah Hanley.

Playing Boothbay Region High School on September 28, in front of a packed field, Henley notched two goals to pace the Wolverines to a 9-0 win.

Hanley said that while it was a bit sad to be at her last homecoming, the win over a rival more than made up for it.

“It's a little sad,” she said. “But, I've been looking forward to it.

“It feels great: I thought we played really great. We made great passes and showed them what we are made of.”

Wiscasset didn't have to wait long to get on the board: Brianna Goud scored one minute and 30 seconds into the game and within three minutes Hanley and Kasey Cromwell had tacked on goals to make it 3-0 with 35 minutes remaining in the half.

Wiscasset would receive goals from Miranda McIntire, Brooke Carleton and two from Katie-Lynn Mills (which were scored a minute-and-a-half apart) gave the Wolverines a 7-0 lead going into half time.

Maeve Carlson started the second half with a goal and Hanley joined in with 35 minutes remaining to finalize the score at 9-0.

Michaela Trudeau again started in net for the injured Kayla Gordon and again shut out the other team. The senior had six shot sent at her and didn't allow one to get past her.

Coach Duane Goud said a large crowd wasn't a distraction for the Wolverines.

“They came out ready to play,” he said. “The passes were working really well; they weren't just kicking it around, they were making good passes and giving their teammates a chance.”

Speaking of chance, Goud said every player got a chance to play Saturday.

Ben Bulkeley can be reached at 207-633-4620 or bbulkeley@boothbayregister.com. Follow him on Twitter: @BBRegisterBen.

Wiscasset High School boys varsity soccer coach Todd Souza knew the September 28 game was going to be emotional.

It was, after all, homecoming.

But the Wolverines didn't get too emotional and the team upended Winthrop, 4-1, in front of a large crowd.

Souza said that the first half, in which the Wolverines netted their four goals, was the level he expects his team to maintain.

“They are young and this was an emotional game at home in front of a big crowd,” Souza said. “They're learning to not let their get energy get down ... They've come a long way since this summer.”

Wiscasset received goals from JD Souza, Travis Padilla and Mason Whitaker within a five minute stretch in the first half. Andrew Corson put the game away and ended the half with a goal with a minute left.

“I thought they played pretty well,” Souza said. “They were a little inconsistent in the second half; they got up big, came out with a big lead, then backed off.”

Goalie Dylan McMahon only allowed one goal, which came off the foot of Winthrop's Ben Hall on a penalty kick. The ball rattled around in front of the box before skidding across to put Winthrop on the board with 18 minutes remaining in the game.

“The whole defense came together,” Souza said. “All the lines came together: from the backs to the midfielders to the forwards, they linked together really well tonight.”

Ben Bulkeley can be reached at 207-633-4620 or bbulkele@boothbayregister.com. Follow him on Twitter: @BBRegisterBen.

Although there won't be a shortage of boats available, there is a need for captains for an upcoming regatta.

Captains need to be at least 18 or older and willing to get wet. The catch?

The boats come from vines and might wind up in pies.

Pumpkinfest Director Bill Clark said the search is on for a few hardy souls willing to ride in a hollowed-out pumpkin during the October 14 regatta.

“Pumpkinboat pilots are captains of either paddle boats or motor boats made out of giant pumpkins,” Clark said in an email. “You don't have to grow your boat, you don't even have to make your boat, although you can do either or both.”

The regatta caps Damariscotta's Pumpkin Fest and will be at the town landing Columbus Day morning.

Clark said there are a few stipulations before anyone can clamber into one of the orange boats.

“Captains need to be 18 or older,” he said. “My tip for anyone who wants to participate is come to have fun, and don't be afraid to get wet. Motorboats are very limited in number, with a few hearty captains piloting each year.”

While having fun is the sole point of Pumpkinfest, doing it safely matters more, Clark said.

“While everyone is encouraged to have fun, we emphasize doing it safely,” he said. “There are divers in the water at all times and a fire rescue boat in the water.”

Ben Bulkeley can be reached at 207-633-4620 or bbulkeley@boothbayregister.com. Follow him on Twitter: @BBRegisterBen.

Midcoast United’s U-13 soccer team defeated the Falmouth U-13 team, 5-4, on the turf field at Falmouth High School on Sunday, Sept. 29. 

Midcoast got its first goal from Isaac Craig and after two penalty kick goals by Simon Spear, the score stood at 3-1 at the half. Spear made the score 4-1 with a goal before Falmouth got two more goals. With the increasing sense that the game could go either way, Will Shaffer knocked in one more goal for Midcoast.

Falmouth came back with a goal, but Midcoast was able to hold on through the closing minutes. With this match, Midcoast’s record is 4-0 with 2 matches left in the regular season. 

The U-11 team lost at Cumberland, 2-1, in a hard-fought game Sunday.

The U-10 team held on for a 1-0 win at Freeport on Sunday. Jack Duncan got the only goal on an assist from Patrick McKenney. With help from a powerful defense of Will Farrell, Kayden Ames, Drew Meader and Ellory Stewart, goalie Andrew Gudroe stopped some great shots on goal during the first half of the game. The team improved to 4 -1 on the season.

On Sunday, Oct. 6, at the Wiscasset High School lower field, the Midcoast United Soccer Club will be hosting a full roster of games. The U-10 team will host Falmouth at 9 a.m., U-11 will host Gray-New Gloucester at 10:15 a.m. and the U-13 team hosts Massabesic United Soccer Club at 11:45 a.m.

We will have staff on hand to answer questions about our upcoming winter soccer opportunities, as well as our 2014 spring soccer season, and club sponsorships.  Midcoast United has currently has players from Bristol, Damariscotta, Nobleboro, Newcastle, Wiscasset, the Boothbay Peninsula, Edgecomb, Wiscasset and Gerogetown, and we welcome others from the Midcoast region.

The first-ever online Boothbay Register/Wiscasset Newspaper Staff Pro Football Challenge continues. Each week, staff members Ben “The Incredible Bulk” Bulkeley, Kevin “The Hammer” Burnham, Nicole “The Lion” Lyons, Katrina “The Ninja” Clark, Mike “Big Scar” Scarborough, Mike “The Iron Horse” Marr and Gary “Mad Stork” Dow “try” to pick the winners of each NFL game by Wednesday evening (each week there is a Thursday game). The winner (best winning percentage) at the end of the regular season will be treated to a prize (we haven’t come up with one yet). We will post each players record from the following week.

Week 4 standings: Kevin 10-5, Mike S. 10-5, Katrina 10-5, Ben 10-5, Mike M. 8-7, Nicole 8-7, Gary 7-8

Overall: Mike M. 39-24; Kevin 39-24; Ben 38-25; Nicole 36-27; Mike S. 36-27; Katrina 32-31; Gary 31-32

Week 4 Comments: Cleveland … two straight wins, baby. Pick of the Week was by Ben, choosing the Bills' upset of the Ravens. Katrina jumped over Gary in the overall standings; thank you 0-4 Giants for losing again! Kevin caught Mike M. in the standings, with Ben just a pick behind!

Week 5 Prognosis: Only 14 games this week with four teams having a bye week. Will Gary pick the New York teams to win this week? He picked one! Gary is still trying to catch up, going it alone with the Titans and Texans. Is Detroit for real? Mike S. thinks so! Not cold enough in Chicago yet so look for the Saints to keep rolling, says Kevin. The Challenge ladies (Nicole and Katrina) differ on seven picks … hmm? Is Nicole pulling a reverse on the rest of us, going it alone with the Bills, Raiders and Jets, to gain an advantage? And Ben is a traitor … or is he thinking our Patriots will run out of gas along I-71 near the Ohio River?

Week 5 picks

Buffalo at Cleveland: Buffalo: Nicole; Cleveland: Katrina, Kevin, Mike M., Gary, Mike S., Ben

Baltimore at Miami: Baltimore: Nicole, Gary; Miami: Katrina, Kevin, Mike M., Mike S., Ben

Detroit at Green Bay: Detroit: Mike S.; Green Bay: Nicole, Katrina, Kevin, Mike M., Gary, Ben

Jacksonville at St. Louis: Jacksonville:; St. Louis: Nicole, Katrina, Kevin, Mike M., Gary, Mike S., Ben

Kansas City at Tennessee: Kansas City: Nicole, Kevin, Mike M., Katrina, Mike S., Ben; Tennessee: Gary

New England at Cincinnati: New England: Nicole, Katrina, Kevin, Mike M., Gary, Mike S.; Cincinnati: Ben

New Orleans at Chicago: New Orleans: Nicole, Kevin, Mike S., Ben; Chicago: Katrina, Mike M., Gary

Philadelphia at NY Giants: Philadelphia: Nicole, Mike S.; NY Giants: Katrina, Kevin, Mike M., Gary, Ben

Seattle at Indianapolis: Seattle: Katrina, Mike M., Mike S., Ben; Indianapolis: Nicole, Kevin, Gary

Carolina at Arizona: Carolina: Nicole, Katrina, Gary, Mike S., Ben; Arizona: Kevin, Mike M.

Denver at Dallas: Denver: Nicole, Katrina, Kevin, Mike M., Gary, Mike S., Ben; Dallas:

San Diego at Oakland: San Diego: Katrina, Kevin, Mike M., Gary, Mike S., Ben; Oakland: Nicole

Houston at San Francisco: Houston: Gary; San Francisco: Nicole, Katrina, Kevin, Mike M., Mike S., Ben

NY Jets at Atlanta: NY Jets: Nicole; Atlanta: Katrina, Kevin, Mike M., Gary, Mike S., Ben

The players

Ben “The Incredible Bulk” Bulkeley used to play football. He used to weigh over 200 pounds, but he wanted to play wide receiver, so he slimmed down drinking Slim Fast and cutting down on his Devil Dog consumption.

Kevin “The Hammer” Burnham played football locally and was on the 1973 Class D championship team, which is celebrating its 40th anniversary this season. He played linebacker and running back and suffered a few concussions during his playing days ... which may explain a lot.

Nicole “The Lion” Lyons watches football ... sometimes.

Katrina “The Ninja” Clark likes to make her picks by blindfolding herself and throwing darts at the chart in her backyard. Once in a while she even hits it. More often she hits the squirrels.

Mike "Big Scar" Scarborough last played organized football in junior high. He played both ways as a lineman, offensive and defensive tackle. Big Scar was a "speed lineman," who loved nothing better than running down a QB in the backfield.

Gary "Mad Stork" Dow played defensive end for the 1972 Class A state runner-up Edward Little "Red Eddies" of Auburn. He alleges he was selected "All-State" but since this was before the creation of the Internet, there is no way to confirm it. He went to play for the University of Maine from 1973-1976 as a defensive end and outside linebacker. He states he won Eastern Collegiate Athletic Association (ECAC) Player of the Week honors against Bucknell University in the fall of 1975, but again, there is no way to confirm this claim either.

Mike “The Iron Horse” Marr made a name for himself in junior high and intramural sports with his aggressive and undisciplined playing technique, often going for the biggest guy on the field and stiff arming. When in a clutch position on the field, he drew attention by using modern dance techniques, something nobody wanted to see. To this day, he still can't watch “Flashdance” without tapping his feet.

One of the best places to experience the beauty of a Maine autumn is from the seat of a kayak.

Join the Pemaquid Paddlers on October 15 as we explore Muscongus Bay.

On this trip we will paddle down the bay towards Broad Cove. Put-in is off of Dutch Neck Road. Take Route 32 to Dutch Neck Road, travel 2.8 miles.

Look for a weathered wooden sign, about 6 feet off the ground on the left which reads “Boat Landing.” Turn left and go 0.2 miles to the parking area.

All trips will leave the put-in point at 9 a.m. and will last two to three hours.

The trips are easy to moderate in difficulty. Participants must provide their own canoe or kayak and wear a life jacket.

All trips are free and open to the public and will be held rain or shine. For more information, contact John Will at 207-677-6380 or email at pemaquidpaddlers@aol.com. You can also visit our website at pemaquidpaddlers.blogspot.com to find out more details about each trip.

Another day, another win for the Wolverines.

The Wiscasset High School girls varsity soccer team extended its winning streak to five games and romped over Lisbon, 2-1, at home on October 3.

The Wolverines (7-2-1) have not lost since September 13 against second-ranked Madison High School. Wiscasset currently occupies the number three seed in the Class C Western Conference. St. Dominics, a team the Wolverines defeated earlier in the year, is still the top-ranked team in the division.

Again it was Wiscasset's seniors leading the way: Goals came from Sarah Hanley and Shania Marr.

Hanley didn't waste much time to get Wiscasset on the board; she guided a goal home seven minutes into the game.

But Lisbon proved to be a formidable foe. The Greyhounds locked down on defense and were able to challenge the Wolverines on defense.

With 24 minutes and 46 seconds remaining until halftime, Lisbon's Deliah Schreiber got her team on the board after smoking a penalty shot through the goal to knot the score at one.

The game would stay locked at one with Wiscasset's high-powered offense unable to slip past the Greyhounds' aggressive defense until Marr found a bit of space and returned a rebound to the back of Lisbon's goal.

Wiscasset Goalie Kayla Gordon stopped five of six shots fired her way and received strong defensive efforts from Michaela Trudeau, Briana Goud and Kasey Cromwell.

Overall, the Wolverines took 18 shots on goal.

Wiscasset will play next at 3:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 7 at Monmouth Academy.

Fall Fury at Wiscasset Speedway was held Saturday, Oct. 5. Fall Fury was the last day of the racing season at Wiscasset Speedway. On the agenda at the Speedway were all eight racing divisions: New England 4-Cylinder Prostock, Mini Trucks, Thunder 4’s, Outlaw Mini, Strictly Street, Super Stock, Late Model Sportsman and Prostock.

Also racing Saturday were all divisions of the Wicked Good Vintage Racers, and the Amsoil Nelcar Legends. The flex race of the week was a one hundred lap Enduro. 

A 30-lap Super Stock race was quick and straight forward. Starting at the pole position was the No. 2 of Josh Bailey. In second and third were the No. 48 of Dan Nessmith and the No. 05 of James Osmond. The only leader change came right at the start when Osmond passed Nessmith on the inside of turn one during lap one for second. Bailey watched the race from his rear view mirror, looking to see if they would catch up to him. Bailey took the checkered. This was Bailey’s ninth top three finish at Wiscasset. Placing second was Osmond. This was Osmond’s 11th top three win of the Wiscasset racing season. Rounding out the top three was Nessmith.

A 100 lap Enduro was the last race of the day. Twenty-seven cars competed in the race, and the track was full. The No. 22 of David Thurlow was an early race leader, but with 80 laps still to go, he dropped back after he went to the pits. The No. 101 of Nick Hanson also was an early race leader, but car trouble began to plague him also. No. 55 Kevin Sherman moved from his last place start to first by lap 32, and he managed to hang onto that lead for the remainder of the race, despite heavy competition. Sherman finished in first. No. 3 Randy Henderson finished second. Third place went to No. 02 Kyle Doery.

The Fall Fury event wrapped up the season for Wiscasset Speedway. Richard and Vanessa Jordan welcome everyone back next April for opening day.

Top Five Finishes

New England 4-Cylinder Prostocks (25 laps): 1. #24 Jeff Prindall, Lisbon Falls; 2. #54 Kamren Knowles, Readfield; 3. #38 Ryan Hayes, Jefferson; 4. #6 Travis Dunbar, Lewiston; 5. #26 Barry Morris, NA

Mini Trucks (15 laps): 1. #88 Dave Cameron, Sanford; 2. #1 Matt Curtis, Freeport; 3. #00 Keith Petrin, NA; 4. #15 Kurt Irish, NA; 5. #17 Matt Wile, NA

Wicked Good Vintage Racers/Late Model and Modified (20 laps): 1. #60 Caleb Willette, Winslow; 2. #M16 Mark Thurlow, Lincolnville; 3. #82 Bobby Symonds, Casco; 4. #420 Keith Smalley, Warren; 5. #97 Brian Hughes, West Paris

Wicked Good Vintage Racers/Sportsman and Outlaw (20 laps): 1. #3 Paul Pierce, Lincolnville; 2. #11 John Rice, Bristol; 3. #155 Wally Henderson, Litchfield

Mini Outlaw (rand with Thunder 4’s): 1. #2x Rob Greenleaf, West Bath

Thunder 4’s (20 laps): 1. #15 Cody Robbins, Winslow; 2. #31X Adam Armstrong, Bath; 3. #21K Kevin Bernatchez, Vassalboro; 4. #42 David Stone, Gorham; 5. #5 Ryan Chadwick, Wiscasset

Amsoil Nelcar Legends (25 laps): 1. #38 Mathew Bourgoine, Newport; 2. #88 John Peters, Westbrook; 3. #70 Tylar Braunschweig, West Newfield; 4. #56 Evan Beaulieu, Durham; 5. #19 Kevin Girard Jr., Old Orchard Beach

Strictly Street (25 laps): 1. #5 Guy Childs, Turner; 2. #36 Richard Spaulding, Lisbon; 3. #43 Ben Erskine, Farmington; 4. #13 Chuck Gray, Wiscasset; 5. #06 Zach Poland, Woolwich

Super Stock (30 laps): 1. #2 Josh Bailey, Wiscasset; 2. #05 James Osmond, Wiscasset; 3. #48 Dan Nessmith, Wiscasset; 4. #35 Dave Langlais, NA; 5. #71 Joe Creamer, Woolwich

Late Model Sportsman (25 laps): 1. #15 Nick Hinkley, Wiscasset; 2. #3 RJ Pinkham, Kingfield; 3. #34 DJ Moody, NA; 4. #05 James Osmond, Wiscasset; 5. #26 Seth Bridge, NA

Prostock (20 laps): 1. #35 Bobby Nadeau, NA; 2. #3 Kevin Sherman, Wiscasset; 3. #11 Ed Trask, Chelsea; 4. #02 Shane Lane, Kingfield; 5. #39 John Rideout, Washington

Enduro (100 laps): 1. #55 Kevin Sherman, Wiscasset; 2. #3 Randy Henderson, Turner; 3. #02 Kyle Doery, NA; 4. #45 John Rines, Wiscasset; 5. #55X Mike Marshall, Dresden

The Red Cloak Haunted History Tours, founded by the Lady in the Red Cloak, Sally Lobkowicz, will feature cemetery tours in October. Lobkowicz, a researcher whose specialty is genealogy and history, began offering tours in Wiscasset in the fall of 2008 and in 2009 in Boothbay Harbor.

The Boothbay Harbor schedule: October 11, 13, 14, 16, 18, 20, 23, 25, 27, 30.

The Wiscasset schedule: October 13, 15, 17, 18, 20, 22, 24, 25, 27, 29.

Tours are by reservation only. Tour rates: $12 adults, $7 children (age 6-12), children 5 and under (and spirits), no charge. Call 207-380-3806 to make your reservation for this unique observance of the Halloween season.

Don't forget your cameras; you just might capture a most unusual souvenir. Don't think so? A skeptic? Take a look at the photos of tour goers past on the website, www.redcloakhauntedhistorytours.com.

Celebrate the history, flavor and tradition of Maine apples while honoring the importance of a diversified, perennial agriculture.

The annual Great Maine Apple Day takes place on Sunday, Oct. 27 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., rain or shine, at Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association’s Common Ground Education Center in Unity. The education center is located at 294 Crosby Brook Road.

Workshops and talks will cover apple art, Maine’s rich apple history, cider making and organic tree care. From the University of Maine, Renae Moran will speak on tree fruit horticulture and Glen Koehler will discuss major pests.

Admission is $2 for MOFGA members and $4 for nonmembers. In addition to MOFGA, the event is also sponsored by Fedco and the University of Maine Cooperative Extension,

Award-winning cider maker Claude Jolicoeur, author of “The New Cider Maker’s Handbook,” will give two workshops and will sign books. A mechanical engineer by profession and resident of Quebec City, Jolicoeur developed his passion for apples and cider after acquiring land where four rows of old abandoned apple trees grew. He started making cider in 1988. Since then, his ciders have earned many awards and medals at competitions, including a Best of Show at the Great Lakes International Cider and Perry Competition. Jolicoeur will talk on “The Basics of Cider Making” from 12:15 p..m. to 1:45 p.m. and will give an overview of The New Cider Maker's Handbook from 2 to 3:30 p.m., followed by a book signing.

Have a mystery apple that you want identified? This is the place! A dream team of Maine apple identifiers will be on hand to help. You can also see and taste rare and heirloom apples and bring your own varieties for others to see and taste.

At 10 a.m. and noon, tour MOFGA’s new Maine Heritage Orchard with renowned apple expert John Bunker. MOFGA is reclaiming an old sand and gravel pit to create a 10-acre heritage orchard to preserve and protect Maine’s traditional apples and pears, at the same time minimizing soil runoff into Unity’s beautiful Sandy Stream.

The orchard will be unlike any other in Maine and will include more than 500 specimens from every county in the state. Varieties will date back to a time when most Mainers lived on farms and every farm had a small orchard of locally adapted selections. Many of these varieties are now on the verge of extinction. The orchard will be managed using innovative organic practices and will be a learning laboratory and model for backyard growers, orchardists and agricultural educators. Prep work for the orchard began this summer; the first 100 varieties will be planted in April 2014.

The Great Maine Apple Day will offer food and crafts for sale, as well.

For more information, visit www.mofga.org.

The time has come for fall's harvest to be plucked from the vine.

The seventh annual Damariscotta Pumpkin Festival and Regatta began October 5 with the weighing of the pumpkin and the events will continue through the week until Monday, Oct. 14, with the regatta.

Event co-founder Buzz Pinkham, who along with Bill Clark, began showcasing the large orange squash nine years ago with the first regatta and seven years ago with the first festival, said Thursday will feature the overgrown pumpkins going on display downtown.

The bulk of the action will be centered around downtown Damariscotta and Newcastle in what has become the Twin Villages biggest weekend of the year.

“I've said it takes a village to grow a pumpkin,” Pinkham said. “Really, it takes a pumpkin to grow a village.”

As of October 8, Pinkham and Clark were busy loading and prepping pumpkins at Pinkham's Plantation. Some of the large pumpkins destined for the water had seeds removed and preserved and some of the display pumpkins had special procedures to ensure they will last throughout the month.

There will be several events on Friday and Saturday, but Sunday starts the pumpkin sports at 9:30 a.m. on Bayview Road at Great Salt Bay in Nobleboro with the pumpkin hurl and catapult competition. At 3 p.m. Sunday the pumpkin hunt and 180-foot pumpkin drop will take place at Round Top Farm.

Monday, Oct. 14 ends Pumpkin Festival with the regatta at 9 a.m. at the Damariscotta town landing.

Before the sun touches the hillside on Federal Street, Ethel Stansfield rises to take her morning walk. This quiet ritual inspires her before she heads up the hill.

Her coffee is still steaming as a dozen or so children ages 2 to 5 come bouncing in to greet “Ms. Ethel.”

“Ms. Ethel” Stansfield has shared the joy of learning at Sheepscot Valley Children's House for 30 years. 

“It's been a great place to spend your so-called career,” Stansfield said while sitting in a child's play chair. “It certainly beats office work.”

The schoolhouse is a Montessori inspired private school that overlooks the Sheepscot River in Wiscasset. Each classroom emits a warm feeling as the sun glowed through the skylights. The classes consist of mixed ages to add a sort of family dynamic, where younger children learn from the older kids.

“It's learning through everything we do,” Stansfield said. “We learn through nature. We learn through art. We learn about life, and socialization is the big piece of it.”  

Stansfield joined the Sheepscot Valley staff in 1984, when Montessori education was a relatively new thing in Maine. Bill and Katie Thompson, who were inspired by the Montessori method, founded the school just one year earlier to focus on a child’s independence through exploration. 

Throughout the years, Sheepscot Valley Children's House has never needed to advertise. The private school sustained healthy enrollment, attracting thousands of students from all over Lincoln and Sagadahoc counties. Stansfield, along with many other staff members, have maintained a reputation for excellence in early childhood education. So what's their secret?

“One word. Empathy,” Bill Thompson said. “Ethel encourages intellectual curiosity, and looks at life from the child's point of view. Too many adults look at children from an adult's point of view, which is scary.”

Thompson, a retired architect, said he designed the Sheepscot Valley in small-scale to make the environment less scary and more inviting for younger children. The second floor housed his office. Thompson joked that occasionally curious children would show up in his office, wondering who “the man upstairs” was.

As the children's house progressed, the staff became convinced traditional Montessori schooling was too limited, so they introduced other conventional forms of education to provide a more gradual transition into other schools. However, Sheepscot Valley still maintained a strong focus on meeting each child’s unique needs and abilities at different stages of their development.

Beyond the curriculum however exists another unique social fabric. Staff members often connect with students and their families outside the walls of Sheepscot Valley. 

Dinner parties, birthdays, sports and recitals are common for teachers to attend, even after the child has moved on from their elementary education.

“It's so different,” said Audrey Latella, who joined the staff in 2005. “I used to think it was strange because I got invited to camp outs.”

While the years have passed and some things have changed, Stansfield is now 77 but she said she feels the same, as she stepped out to join the children on the playground.

“It's almost like we're a family, and we keep growing every single year,” she said.

The train whistles and the children congregate to count the boxcars.

“Everybody should experience this because it is so unique,” Stansfield said. “We often say every day is a new day in the valley.”

In a physical, bruising game the night of October 8, it was the Wiscasset High School boys varsity soccer team that was left standing over Spruce Mountain.

Wiscasset won, 2-0, in a defense-heavy game. The win moves the Wolverines to 6-3-2 on the season while the Spruce Mountain Phoenix fell to 6-3-1.

The first goal of the game was scored with 13 minutes remaining in the first half. Junior Camden Reiss, who had been able to muscle his way down the field for most of the afternoon, made a quick pass to freshman Russell Marr who put the ball in the back of the net.

Wiscasset would dominate for most of the first half, as Spruce Mountain was unable to get deep into Wolverine territory. The second saw a reenergized Phoenix attack that put pressure on Wiscasset goalie Dylan McMahon.

But McMahon and the Wolverines wouldn't give in, and freshmen Brandon Goud booted a pass to sophomore JD Souza who netted an insurance goal for Wiscasset with 32:55 remaining.

From there it was up to a Wiscasset defense to hold Spruce Mountain at bay.

McMahon was able to kill a penalty kick; and strong efforts from Brycson Grover, Mason Whitaker and Andrew Corson sealed the win for the Wolverines.

The southeast of Maine is now experiencing peak foliage just in time for the Columbus Day weekend, according to the fifth Fall Foliage Report from the Maine Department of Agriculture Conservation and Forestry. Leaf drop is low at 30 percent to 50 percent.

The Maine Forest Service and state park rangers are now reporting peak conditions in Zones 2 and 3 covering Bar Harbor, Penobscot Bay, Bangor and Augusta. The cities of Camden, Bath, and Portland down to Kittery in Zone 1 are at high conditions with less than 70 percent color change.

Recent rainstorms have contributed to a low to moderate leaf drop of 30 percent to 50 percent.

“This has been one of our best fall foliage seasons to date,” said Gale Ross, fall foliage spokesperson for the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry. “There is still time to view the blanket of color in the southeastern part of the state before winter sets in.”

The last fall foliage hike of the season, suitable for all ages, will be held at Vaughn Woods State Park in South Berwick located in Zone 1 near York on October 12at 1 p.m.  For more information please visit www.parksandlands.com or call 207-384-5160.

In addition to viewing peak foliage conditions, Columbus Day weekend in Maine is in full swing with great festivals. For a full list of festivals go to www.visitmaine.com/search/new/event/. 

Maine’s official foliage website www.mainefoliage.com provides weekly reports by email and an opportunity to share photos of favorite spots in Maine to watch the leaves change color.

Wiscasset Parks & Recreation department has announced its first ever Halloween Raven Egg Hunt.

Join a friendly witch for a walk down the not-too-scary path to the Raven’s Nest Ball Field for the town’s first ever Flashlight Halloween Egg Hunt on Friday, Oct. 25, 6-7:30 p.m.

This event is rain or shine, so dress warm and don’t forget your flashlights.

Four thousand Halloween eggs filled with prizes and candy will be hidden all through the field (with a few extra special eggs for extra spooky prizes).

There will also be a Halloween magic show, featuring the magic of “Conjuring Carol.”

Tickets purchased in advance are $5 per child. Children purchasing tickets before October 25 will be entered into a drawing for a special prize, to be drawn before the hunt. The cost is $6 per child at the door.

Tickets include the magic show, snack and the Raven Egg Hunt. Apple cider and doughnut holes will be served after the show.

Plus, make plans now for the upcoming Wiscasset Parks & Recreation Department's Halloween Ghosts and Goblins Parade on Thursday, Oct. 31 at the Wiscasset Middle School. Line up at 4 p.m., parade starts at 4:30 p.m.

Trick or treat bags with goodies and safety glow sticks will be handed out to the first 200 kids. Special thanks to the Wiscasset Fire Dept. and the Wiscasset Police Dept. for their help. Call 207-882-8230 for more information.

The first-ever online Boothbay Register/Wiscasset Newspaper Staff Pro Football Challenge continues. Each week, staff members Ben “The Incredible Bulk” Bulkeley, Kevin “The Hammer” Burnham, Nicole “The Lion” Lyons, Katrina “The Ninja” Clark, Mike “Big Scar” Scarborough, Mike “The Iron Horse” Marr and Gary “Mad Stork” Dow “try” to pick the winners of each NFL game by Wednesday evening (each week there is a Thursday game). The winner (best winning percentage) at the end of the regular season will be treated to a prize (we haven’t come up with one yet). We will post each players record from the following week.

Week 5 standings: Nicole 11-3, Kevin 9-5, Mike S. 7-7, Mike M. 7-7, Katrina 6-8, Ben 6-8, Gary 6-8

Overall: Kevin 48-29; Nicole 47-30; Mike M. 46-31; Ben 44-33; Mike S. 43-34; Katrina 38-39; Gary 37-40

Week 5 Comment: Cleveland … three straight wins, baby. Nicole got the PICKS of the Week as the only Challenger who chose Oakland and NY Jets. What is wrong with the Falcons? ... the disappointment of the league so far (along with Houston). Can't figure the Chargers out ... they beat the Cowboys at home then lose to the Raiders at Oakland, typical considering their recent past.

Week 6 Prognosis: Back to 15 games on the schedule. Most intriguing game this week has to be Green Bay at Baltimore — Packers need to keep pace with the Lions and Bears and the Ravens want to keep pace with the Browns and Bengals.

Is Tom Brady done sulking? Will Gronk play? Will Denver run up the score against lowly Jacksonville so Peyton can get closer to Brady's season TD passing record?

Another tough week to pick ... ten teams are 3-2; who will drop back and who will take a big step forward? Gary is sticking with the Giants and going it alone with Washington; Cleveland gained five picks; and none of the Challengers took Buffalo, Tampa Bay, Arizona or Jacksonville.

Week 6 picks

NY Giants at Chicago: NY Giants: Gary; Chicago: Katrina, Ben, Nicole, Kevin, Mike S., Mike M.

Carolina at Minnesota: Carolina: Ben, Mike S.; Minnesota: Katrina, Nicole, Kevin, Gary, Mike M.

Cincinnati at Buffalo: Cincinnati: Katrina, Ben, Nicole, Kevin, Mike S., Gary, Mike M.; Buffalo:

Detroit at Cleveland: Detroit: Katrina, Ben; Cleveland: Nicole, Kevin, Mike S., Gary, Mike M.

Green Bay at Baltimore: Green Bay: Ben, Mike M.; Baltimore: Katrina, Nicole, Kevin, Mike S., Gary

Oakland at Kansas City: Oakland: Nicole, Gary; Kansas City: Katrina, Ben, Kevin, Mike S., Mike M.

Philadelphia at Tampa Bay: Philadelphia: Katrina, Ben, Nicole, Kevin, Mike S., Gary, Mike M.; Tampa Bay:

Pittsburgh at NY Jets: Pittsburgh: Nicole, Gary; NY Jets: Katrina, Ben, Kevin, Mike S., Mike M.

St. Louis at Houston: St. Louis: Ben, Nicole, Mike S.; Houston: Katrina, Kevin, Gary, Mike M.

Jacksonville at Denver: Jacksonville: Denver: Katrina, Ben, Nicole, Kevin, Mike S., Gary, Mike M.

Tennessee at Seattle: Tennessee: Ben, Nicole, Gary; Seattle: Katrina, Kevin, Mike S., Mike M.

Arizona at San Francisco: Arizona: San Francisco: Katrina, Ben, Nicole, Kevin, Mike S., Gary, Mike M.

New Orleans at New England: New Orleans: Ben, Nicole, Kevin, Mike S., Mike M.; New England: Katrina, Gary

Washington at Dallas: Washington: Gary; Dallas: Katrina, Ben, Nicole, Kevin, Mike S., Mike M.

Indianapolis at San Diego: Indianapolis: Katrina, Nicole, Kevin, Mike S., Mike M.; San Diego: Ben, Gary

The players

Ben “The Incredible Bulk” Bulkeley used to play football. He used to weigh over 200 pounds, but he wanted to play wide receiver, so he slimmed down drinking Slim Fast and cutting down on his Devil Dog consumption.

Kevin “The Hammer” Burnham played football locally and was on the 1973 Class D championship team, which is celebrating its 40th anniversary this season. He played linebacker and running back and suffered a few concussions during his playing days ... which may explain a lot.

Nicole “The Lion” Lyons watches football ... sometimes.

Katrina “The Ninja” Clark likes to make her picks by blindfolding herself and throwing darts at the chart in her backyard. Once in a while she even hits it. More often she hits the squirrels.

Mike “Big Scar” Scarborough last played organized football in junior high. He played both ways as a lineman, offensive and defensive tackle. Big Scar was a "speed lineman," who loved nothing better than running down a QB in the backfield.

Gary “Mad Stork” Dow played defensive end for the 1972 Class A state runner-up Edward Little "Red Eddies" of Auburn. He alleges he was selected "All-State" but since this was before the creation of the Internet, there is no way to confirm it. He went to play for the University of Maine from 1973-1976 as a defensive end and outside linebacker. He states he won Eastern Collegiate Athletic Association (ECAC) Player of the Week honors against Bucknell University in the fall of 1975, but again, there is no way to confirm this claim either.

Mike “The Iron Horse” Marr made a name for himself in junior high and intramural sports with his aggressive and undisciplined playing technique, often going for the biggest guy on the field and stiff arming. When in a clutch position on the field, he drew attention by using modern dance techniques, something nobody wanted to see. To this day, he still can't watch “Flashdance” without tapping his feet.

Can’t wait for Halloween? Red Cloak Haunted History tours are happening throughout the month of October. Click here for dates.

For something completely different, go to Alna and help out Sunday, Oct. 13, and Monday, Oct. 14, the final two days of the Wiscasset, Waterville & Farmington Railway Museum's fall work weekend.

Wolverines fans: make sure to check the Wiscasset High School sports schedule so you don’t miss any games!

Wiscasset residents this week will get to weigh in and ask questions about all the local issues on the November 5 ballot. The public hearing is 7 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 15, at the municipal building. Click here for the full town meeting schedule.

This might be one of your last chances to take to the water before it’s too cold: Pemaquid Paddlers will explore Muscongus Bay on October 15.

The Twin Villages Art Walk happens on October 16 this week. Come support local artists in Damariscotta and Newcastle!

The former Davis Island Grill in Edgecomb will be the place to be October 18 as that property and three others are auctioned off. The Bank of Maine is looking to unload the restaurant, two adjoining condominiums and the Coburn House in Boothbay. Click here for details.

There's a new twist to the ubiquitous beer-tasting festivals held around the state this year: a Witches Brew Fest at the Augusta Armory on Saturday, Oct. 19, from 2 to 6 p.m.

Join the Sheepscot Valley Conservation Assocaition for the grand opening of the new Red Trail at the Stester Preserve in Jefferson on Saturday, Oct. 19.  Gather at the kiosk on Egypt Road (1.25 miles from Route 215 or 2.5 miles from Route 194) at 9:45 a.m. for cider and snacks before departing for the Red Trail at 10 a.m.

Colder weather may be coming, but the Wiscasset Community Center has plenty of activities and classes lined up. Click here for the full schedule.

The time has come for pumpkins to take over Main Street in Damariscotta.

The seventh annual Damariscotta Pumpkin Festival and Regatta might have started earlier in the week, but on Friday, Oct. 11, the Twin Villages were humming.

After several dozen pumpkins were unloaded throughout town on October 10, the next day saw artists chiseling, chipping, sewing, painting and carving pumpkins in advance of the weekends’ activities.

Wiscasset’s Mike Blagdon could be found alongside his father, John, and son Payton carving away at what would eventually become a lion.

“I think this is the largest of the carving pumpkins,” Mike Blagdon said. “When you’re working with a pumpkin this big, you need to make sure you’re bold.”

Blagdon said the minute details that are afforded smaller pumpkins are cast aside when the canvas weighs in at more than half a ton.

Further down the line, in front of Fernald’s Country Store, the family team of Minda Gold, Jonah and Jacques Vesery painted and tweaked their massive gourd.

With piping like Victorian-era plumbing jutting out from the pumpkin and gold paint, knobs and switches, Gold called the pumpkin “Steampumpkin,” after the steampunk aesthetic.

For the full schedule and updates from the event, click here.

If the festivities in Damariscotta October 13 had a theme, it would be pumpkin destruction.

The second-to-last day of Pumpkinfest featured pumpkins being dropped, smashed, chunked and chucked throughout Damariscotta and Nobleboro.

Sunday morning opened with long-rang pumpkin destruction as the Pennsylvania-based “Big 10 Inch” pumpkin cannon was launching pumpkins into the Great Salt Bay.

Alongside the cannon a pumpkin trebuchet was busy launching pumpkins into the drink as crowds gathered in Nobleboro.

At 3 p.m. Sunday at Round Top Farms in Damariscotta pumpkins will be dropped from a 180-foot crane as Sunday’s pumpkin destruction continues.

Click here for more articles and the complete Pumpkinfest schedule.

Damariscotta Pumpkinfest and Regatta finished October 14 in the way it all started: in pumpkin boats on the Damariscotta River.

The multiple races closed out another year of pumpkin food, destruction, painting and racing.

Tim Smith of Boston was able to reclaim his crown as top pumpkin paddler after Charlie Lopresti tried to show off for the crowd. Smith has won five times in the regatta.

Before the race Smith was nervous because the perfect pumpkin for a regatta (large, but not too large) was a tough find.

“There aren’t a lot of pumpkins to choose from this year,” he said. “(I’ve raced) in the past four years and I’ve won a few of them.

“I don’t know about this year; there aren’t a lot of boat pumpkins here.”

In the end, Smith was able to steer his pumpkin to victory again.

In the motorized division, South Bristol’s Matt Poole was unable to hold onto an early lead and took on a bit of water and finished fourth.

Christian Rioux would overtake Poole in the last leg of the race to claim victory. In a sign of pumpkin solidarity, Rioux turned around and towed Poole back in to turn a DNF into a fourth-place finish.
Buzz Pinkham took second place while Tom Lishness in his traditional pumpkin skiff brought home a third-place trophy.

Click here for more Pumpkinfest articles, videos and photos.

Although the opponents change, not much else does for the Wiscasset High School boys varsity soccer team.

The Wolverines (7-3-2) again found its firepower from a familiar source and routed Monmouth October 12 on the road.

Sophomore JD Souza added to his gaudy totals with another two goals to give the forward 16 on the year. Junior Mason Witaker and freshman Russell Marr added assists for the Wolverines.

Wiscasset has not lost since Septober 26 and is 4-0-1 in its last five games to move into the eighth spot in Class C's Western Conference. Souza meanwhile is third in goals in the league.

The Wolverines will try to keep the streak going Friday, Oct. 18 at Oak Hill, then returns home for its season finale Tuesday, Oct. 22 against number one ranked Hall-Dale (11-0). Both games start at 3:30 p.m.

The first-ever online Boothbay Register/Wiscasset Newspaper Staff Pro Football Challenge continues. Each week, staff members Ben “The Incredible Bulk” Bulkeley, Kevin “The Hammer” Burnham, Nicole “The Lion” Lyons, Katrina “The Ninja” Clark, Mike “Big Scar” Scarborough, Mike “The Iron Horse” Marr and Gary “Mad Stork” Dow “try” to pick the winners of each NFL game by Wednesday evening (each week there is a Thursday game). The winner (best winning percentage) at the end of the regular season will be treated to a prize (we haven’t come up with one yet). We will post each players record from the following week.

Week 6 standings: Ben 12-3, Katrina 10-5, Mike S. 10-5, Mike M. 9-6, Nicole 8-7, Kevin 8-7, Gary 7-8

Overall: Kevin 56-36; Ben 56-36; Nicole 55-37; Mike M. 55-37; Mike S. 53-39; Katrina 48-44; Gary 44-48

Week 6 Comment: The Challenge standings tightened up with Ben and Mike S. having good weeks. Cleveland's three straight wins suckered five us into picking them to defeat Detroit, but wasn't to be. Tom Brady's heroics gave Gary and Katrina a needed victory to stay in the hunt for the Challenge crown, while the rest of us were still happy that the Patriots won, even though we got a loss in the standings.

Week 7 Prognosis: Parity, parity, parity .... Who will take a step forward and who will fall back? Several in-division games this week. Will Brady wreck Rex again? Can Washington stay alive for a chance at the playoffs by beating the Bears? Peyton returns “home” to Indianapolis — homecoming cheers or no mercy for 60 minutes? Will brother Eli finally get his first win of the season over the almost-as-bad Vikings?

 Week 7 picks

Seattle at Arizona: Seattle: Katrina, Kevin, Mike S., Gary, Mike M.; Arizona: Nicole, Ben

Baltimore at Pittsburgh: Baltimore: Katrina, Kevin, Mike S., Mike M., Ben; Pittsburgh: Nicole, Gary

Buffalo at Miami: Buffalo: Nicole; Miami: Katrina, Kevin, Mike S., Gary, Mike M., Ben

Chicago at Washington: Chicago: Katrina, Kevin, Mike S., Mike M., Ben; Washington: Nicole, Gary

Cincinnati at Detroit: Cincinnati: Detroit: Katrina, Nicole, Kevin, Mike S., Gary, Mike M., Ben

Dallas at Philadelphia: Dallas: Nicole, Kevin, Mike S., Gary; Philadelphia: Katrina, Mike M., Ben

Houston at Kansas City: Houston: Gary; Kansas City: Katrina, Nicole, Kevin, Mike S., Mike M., Ben

New England at NY Jets: New England: Katrina, Nicole, Kevin, Mike S., Gary, Mike M., Ben; NY Jets:

San Diego at Jacksonville: San Diego: Katrina, Nicole, Kevin, Mike S., Gary, Mike M., Ben; Jacksonville:

St. Louis at Carolina: St. Louis: Nicole; Carolina: Katrina, Kevin, Mike S., Gary, Mike M., Ben

Tampa Bay at Atlanta: Tampa Bay: Nicole; Atlanta: Katrina, Kevin, Mike S., Gary, Mike M., Ben

San Francisco at Tennessee: San Francisco: Katrina, Mike S., Gary, Mike M., Ben; Tennessee: Nicole, Kevin

Cleveland at Green Bay: Cleveland: Nicole; Green Bay: Katrina, Kevin, Mike S., Gary, Mike M., Ben

Denver at Indianapolis: Denver: Katrina, Kevin, Mike S., Gary, Mike M., Ben; Indianapolis: Nicole

Minnesota at NY Giants: Minnesota: Nicole, Mike S.; NY Giants: Katrina, Kevin, Gary, Mike M., Ben

The players

Ben “The Incredible Bulk” Bulkeley used to play football. He used to weigh over 200 pounds, but he wanted to play wide receiver, so he slimmed down drinking Slim Fast and cutting down on his Devil Dog consumption.

Kevin “The Hammer” Burnham played football locally and was on the 1973 Class D championship team, which is celebrating its 40th anniversary this season. He played linebacker and running back and suffered a few concussions during his playing days ... which may explain a lot.

Nicole “The Lion” Lyons watches football ... sometimes.

Katrina “The Ninja” Clark likes to make her picks by blindfolding herself and throwing darts at the chart in her backyard. Once in a while she even hits it. More often she hits the squirrels.

Mike "Big Scar" Scarborough last played organized football in junior high. He played both ways as a lineman, offensive and defensive tackle. Big Scar was a "speed lineman," who loved nothing better than running down a QB in the backfield.

Gary "Mad Stork" Dow played defensive end for the 1972 Class A state runner-up Edward Little "Red Eddies" of Auburn. He alleges he was selected "All-State" but since this was before the creation of the Internet, there is no way to confirm it. He went to play for the University of Maine from 1973-1976 as a defensive end and outside linebacker. He states he won Eastern Collegiate Athletic Association (ECAC) Player of the Week honors against Bucknell University in the fall of 1975, but again, there is no way to confirm this claim either.

Mike “The Iron Horse” Marr made a name for himself in junior high and intramural sports with his aggressive and undisciplined playing technique, often going for the biggest guy on the field and stiff arming. When in a clutch position on the field, he drew attention by using modern dance techniques, something nobody wanted to see. To this day, he still can't watch “Flashdance” without tapping his feet.

Playing in her last home game, Wiscasset High School senior Michaela Trudeau had one goal: Win or lose, she wanted to net a goal of her own.

Trudeau has been a defensive stalwart and sometimes-goalie for the Wolverines for four years, during which she had never scored a goal. Her drought extends through her middle school years and goes back to when she played for the youth league.

On October 17, that streak came to an end.

Trudeau had one of Wiscasset's 10 goals in a 10-1 home romp over Telstar to close out a regular season in which the Wolverines went 11-2-1.

“I was just thinking that if I miss this, I am going to be so mad,” she said. “It hit the cross bar and I knew I had to follow through. I bounced it in off my knee and it went in.

“I'm in shock right now. I'm so excited.”

Trudeau's was the last Wiscasset goal of the night. Sarah Hanley got the Wolverines started with goal two minutes into the first half. Approximately 16 minutes would roll by before Shania Marr netted her first goal to push Wiscasset's lead to 2-0. In the last three-and-a-half minutes of the first half Marr and Hanley would score their second goals to give Wiscasset a 4-0 lead going into halftime.

Only 18 seconds into the second half, Miranda McIntire scored her first goal. One minute later she scored her goal and with 32 minutes remaining in the game she scored her third and final goal to cement the hat trick.

“It's a great feeling,” McIntire said after the game. “Everyone got in, got a chance to play.”

Casey Cromwell added two goals of her own in her last regular-season game at home. Telstar was finally able to sneak in a goal with a little more than two minutes remaining to prevent the shutout.

Wiscasset also learned that it will not be playing for an MVC crown after St. Dom's and Madison secured first- and second-place rankings.

But, as Coach Duane Goud told his team after the win, the important hardware will be a state title, not conference crown.

The Gardens’ horticulture staff and volunteers will soon plant 23,000 bulbs, so we can all look forward to a fabulous display of color next spring. They may be thinking ahead by six months, but guests are trying to get in a last visit or two while the foliage is still bright and gardens are still blooming with late-season flowers. Special harvest displays embrace the season’s color and abundance: Gourds, hay and scarecrows abound.

The Kitchen Garden Café and Gardens Gift Shop are open until the end of October. The roster of programs and events is shorter, but those that remain are intriguing and fun. For information about the Gardens and fall happenings for all ages, call 207-633-4333, ext. 101; visit www.mainegardens.org; or stop by the Gardens, off Barters Island Road in Boothbay.

Free to good homes: pumpkins galore!

Beginning October 28, and continuing while supplies last, all Gardens guests are invited to take home a pumpkin. Even those who simply want to pick out one of the 1,500 colorful, artfully arranged gourds without enjoying the gardens or trails may just stop by for a pumpkin.

New! Kitchen garden dinner

Ray Franklyn, acclaimed chef of the popular Solo Bistro in Bath, will prepare a Kitchen Garden Series Dinner on Sunday, Nov. 17. Prices, which include wine and gratuities, are $75 for members and $90 for nonmembers. For reservations, call 207-633-4333, ext. 101.

Revised Children’s Garden schedule

The Education Department has announced that several children’s activities will continue for one more weekend. Kids may enjoy Storytime at 10 a.m. and feed the chickens at 12:30 p.m. on Saturday and Sundays, October 26 and 27. Storytime continues every Monday at 10 a.m. year-round. In November, after Storytime moves into the Education Center for the winter, volunteer Pat Jeremiah will spread out a big quilt for youngsters to sit on while she reads and talks with them. She’ll also bring floor puzzles and gear for pretend-gardening fun.

Admissions fees end for season

Beginning on November 1, admission fees will be suspended until April 15. The Visitor and Education centers will be closed on weekends, except when there are special events, including the Frozen Turkey Hunt on November 23 and the Christmas Market on December 14.

November 2 Early Bird membership deals

On Saturday, Nov. 2, Membership Department staff members will set up displays at two Early Bird Sales, where they’ll offer some great incentives for joining now. They’ll be at a table in front of the Maine Coast Book Shop in Damariscotta from 6-9 a.m. and in front of the Bath City Hall from 5:30 to around 8 a.m.

“Harrowing” show continues

Diane Walden’s exhibit and sale of creepy-but-cute sculptures made of plants and other materials will continue through the end of the month in the Education Center Lobby. There are a few in the Visitor Center, too. Walden, who lives in Thomaston and is a horticulturist on the Gardens staff, also creates elegant holiday decorations and floral arrangements and teaches workshops. On December 7, she’ll present two different levels of Festive Holiday Greens classes, traditional and advanced.

Halloween-themed events will be breaking out in the coming week. On Friday, October 25, the Wiscasset High School Senior Council hosts its second annual Haunted High School. Kindergarteners through twelvth-graders will have sections to go to designed either for younger or older students. Both involve free candy. The event runs from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the high school on Gardiner Road.

Westport Island gets into the festivities Saturday, October 26, when the local human resource committee and community association put on a costume party and dance. It will all take place from 7 to 10 p.m. at the old Town Hall.

The Lincoln County Democratic Committee will be keeping it serious this week. The committee plans a Wednesday, October 23, meeting on the Affordable Care Act, or Obamacare, in the 911 Communications Center behind the Lincoln County Courthouse. The event starts with a social gathering at 6:30 p.m., followed by the meeting at 7 p.m.

The Wiscasset Area Chamber of Commerce will have a Business After Hours event at Sheepscot Bay Physical Therapy in Edgecomb, Thursday, October 24, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Call 207-882-9944 if you plan to attend.

Break out the pumpkins and candy corn. It's Halloween once again.

For those of us who are pet parents, it's time to come up with some new ideas about how to make the holiday fun for our furry little ones.

While there are some really innovative and cute already-made costumes out there, and lots of places to buy premade Halloween pet treats, carving out time for some spooky DIY is a really hands-on and fun way to celebrate.

To that end, we've come up with some great do-it-yourself ideas that don't take a lot of time and effort.

Following an impressive season that saw the Wiscasset High School girls varsity soccer team win 11 games, the Wolverines have been rewarded with a home playoff game.

No. 4 ranked Wiscasset (11-2-1) will kick off the playoffs at 6 p.m. October 25 at home against No. 13 ranked Lisbon (6-8).

Wiscasset won its other match-up with Lisbon on October 3, by a score of 2-1.

Anyone looking for a good outdoor sport should drop by the Great Salt Bay Elementary School on Sunday afternoons. “52 Pick-up,” Damariscotta’s own Ultimate Frisbee collective, is there every Sunday to play a low-key but high-energy game. Everyone is welcome.

Our players are men and women, boys and girls, who range in age from 10 to 60. We are educators, the self-employed, scientists, lawyers, slackers, engineers, parents, artists, Web designers, and others. We all show up for good exercise, excellent end-zone socializing, and a love of the game.

Ultimate Frisbee is known for its unique combination of athleticism, fairness, and an idiosyncratic joy of playing. Where else would you find players throwing themselves at full speed into deep snow for a diving end zone catch? And in what other sport do players call their own fouls?

Ultimate Frisbee is unique particularly for something called “spirit of the game,” defined as a dedication to fairness and self-governance in the midst of good competition. There are no referees.

Anyone interested in coming out to play with “52 Pick-up” in Damariscotta can contact Julia Lamy at 207-380-4788. We play every Sunday, 2 p.m. in winter, 3 p.m. in summer. Games are held behind Great Salt Bay Elementary School on Route 1B in Damariscotta.

Everyone is welcome, regardless of experience or age. Bring the kids so they can play in the amazing new GSB playground!

Registration for fall II programs is happening now online and at the Y. The seven-week Fall II program session begins Monday, Nov. 4.

New session of tennis programs by the month begins on Monday, Nov. 4. Register today.

Tuesdays, 6-7 p.m. weekly: Cardio Tennis. A fantastic workout and you need not know how to play tennis to participate in the class.

Thursday, Nov. 7, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. American Red Cross blood drive in the YMCA gym.

Friday, Nov. 8, 22 and December 6, 7-10 p.m. Sixth to eighth grade dance

Friday, Nov. 8, 7-8 p.m. While your kids are at the dance come to the Y courts for some tennis and socializing and then head out to dinner after. A night out for you!

Saturday, Nov. 9, enjoy dinner at the Thistle Inn and 30 percent of your bill will support Y-Arts youth going to Atlanta!

Saturday, Nov. 9, 10 a.m. (girls) and 11 a.m. (boys) Y League Basketball Clinic.

Monday, Nov. 11, The YMCA will be closed in observance of Veterans Day

Saturday, Nov. 16, 10 a.m. to noon, Y-Arts For All Workshop

If it wasn't the rain one minute, it was the Bulldogs the next.

The Wiscasset High School boys varsity soccer team was unable to muster much offense in the rain and fell, 3-0, Tuesday night, October 22 at home against the Hall-Dale Bulldogs.

The loss moved Wiscasset to 8-5-2 while Hall-Dale, the number one ranked team in Western Class C, improved to 15-0.

The game was played under increasingly heavy rain and players struggled to hold onto their footing as the ground became saturated.

Hall-Dale was able to use the rain to its advantage and netted two quick goals and added a third on a penalty kick to close out the first half.

The second half didn't last long; the game was called 10 minutes after halftime because of thunder and lightning and the score remained 3-0.

Wiscasset will look to get back to its winning ways at 1 p.m. Saturday when it travels to Carrabec for its preliminary game in the playoffs.

Carrabec (7-5-2) is the seventh-ranked team in Western Class C. The Cobras and number nine-ranked Wolverines are equal on paper, as the two teams played to a 0-0 tie in the September 7 season opener.

The first-ever online Boothbay Register/Wiscasset Newspaper Staff Pro Football Challenge continues. Each week, staff members Ben “The Incredible Bulk” Bulkeley, Kevin “The Hammer” Burnham, Nicole “The Lion” Lyons, Katrina “The Ninja” Clark, Mike “Big Scar” Scarborough, Mike “The Iron Horse” Marr and Gary “Mad Stork” Dow “try” to pick the winners of each NFL game by Wednesday evening (each week there is a Thursday game). The winner (best winning percentage) at the end of the regular season will be treated to a prize (we haven’t come up with one yet). We will post each players record from the following week.

Week 7 standings: Gary 10-5; Kevin 8-7; Mike M. 8-7; Mike S. 8-7; Katrina 8-7; Nicole 7-8; Ben 7-8

Overall: Kevin 64-43; Mike M. 63-44; Ben 63-44; Nicole 62-45; Mike S. 61-46; Katrina 56-51; Gary 54-53

Week 7 Comments: Gary had a breakthrough week to tighten up the standings. The Steelers and Redskins are getting better and Buffalo pulled off a tough win in Miami. The Patriots, thanks to a new rule, found a way to lose to those NY Jets .... Welcome back, Gronk. Seattle solidified its claim to be a top pick for the championship. And, oh yeah, the NY Giants got their first win — Coughlin keeps his job for another week.

Week 8 Prognosis: Six teams get a bye this week. Six other teams, like Jacksonville, Minnesota, NY Giants, Tampa Bay and Oakland, are already planning for next year. Atlanta, one of the disappointing teams this season (due mostly to injuries) may join the above group as it has a tough game in Arizona. Washington is on the cusp of losing a playoff bid and will find it very hard in Denver, which is coming off its first loss off the season. Gary — Cleveland? Really? Nicole — St. Louis AND Minnesota? Really?

Week 8 picks

Carolina at Tampa Bay: Carolina: Katrina, Gary, Mike S. Kevin, Ben, Mike M.; Tampa Bay: Nicole

Buffalo at New Orleans: Buffalo: Mike M. New Orleans: Katrina, Gary, Nicole, Mike S., Kevin, Ben

Cleveland at Kansas City: Cleveland: Gary; Kansas City: Katrina, Nicole, Mike S., Kevin, Ben, Mike M.

Dallas at Detroit: Dallas: Gary, Nicole, Mike S., Kevin, Ben; Detroit: Katrina, Mike M.

Miami at New England: Miami: Nicole; New England: Katrina, Gary, Mike S., Kevin, Ben, Mike M.

NY Giants at Philadelphia: NY Giants: Gary, Ben; Philadelphia: Katrina, Nicole, Mike S., Kevin, Mike M.

San Francisco at Jacksonville: San Francisco: Katrina, Gary, Nicole, Mike S., Kevin, Ben, Mike M.; Jacksonville:

NY Jets at Cincinnati: NY Jets: Mike M.; Cincinnati: Katrina, Gary, Nicole, Mike S., Kevin, Ben

Pittsburgh at Oakland: Pittsburgh: Katrina, Gary, Mike S., Kevin, Ben, Mike M.; Oakland: Nicole

Atlanta at Arizona: Atlanta: Katrina, Gary, Mike S., Kevin; Arizona: Nicole, Ben, Mike M.

Washington at Denver: Washington: Denver: Katrina, Gary, Nicole, Mike S., Kevin, Ben, Mike M.

Green Bay at Minnesota: Green Bay: Katrina, Gary, Mike S., Kevin, Ben, Mike M.; Minnesota: Nicole

Seattle at St. Louis: Seattle: Katrina, Gary, Mike S., Kevin, Ben, Mike M.; St. Louis: Nicole

The players

Ben “The Incredible Bulk” Bulkeley used to play football. He used to weigh over 200 pounds, but he wanted to play wide receiver, so he slimmed down drinking Slim Fast and cutting down on his Devil Dog consumption.

Kevin “The Hammer” Burnham played football locally and was on the 1973 Class D championship team, which is celebrating its 40th anniversary this season. He played linebacker and running back and suffered a few concussions during his playing days ... which may explain a lot.

Nicole “The Lion” Lyons watches football ... sometimes.

Katrina “The Ninja” Clark likes to make her picks by blindfolding herself and throwing darts at the chart in her backyard. Once in a while she even hits it. More often she hits the squirrels.

Mike "Big Scar" Scarborough last played organized football in junior high. He played both ways as a lineman, offensive and defensive tackle. Big Scar was a "speed lineman," who loved nothing better than running down a QB in the backfield.

Gary "Mad Stork" Dow played defensive end for the 1972 Class A state runner-up Edward Little "Red Eddies" of Auburn. He alleges he was selected "All-State" but since this was before the creation of the Internet, there is no way to confirm it. He went to play for the University of Maine from 1973-1976 as a defensive end and outside linebacker. He states he won Eastern Collegiate Athletic Association (ECAC) Player of the Week honors against Bucknell University in the fall of 1975, but again, there is no way to confirm this claim either.

Mike “The Iron Horse” Marr made a name for himself in junior high and intramural sports with his aggressive and undisciplined playing technique, often going for the biggest guy on the field and stiff arming. When in a clutch position on the field, he drew attention by using modern dance techniques, something nobody wanted to see. To this day, he still can't watch “Flashdance” without tapping his feet.

Have you ever wanted to visit France, the Bahamas or Westport Island, Maine? Now's your chance as the Morris Farm's Vacation Property Raffle returns.

Explore Apt, France on foot or bike from your sunny apartment in a 17th century grand home in this quaint town dating back to the Romans.

Or, bask in the tropical sun and surf on the white sands of the Bahamas at your private beachside cottage. Want to “get away” but stay closer to home? Breathe deep the briney air and explore the rocky shoreline of Midcoast Maine during a weekend at "Old Salty," an authentic houseboat on the eastern shore of Westport Island.

France and the Bahamas come with $300 travel vouchers, thanks to generous donations from three local banks: The First, Wiscasset; Midcoast Federal Credit Union, Edgecomb; and First Federal, Wiscasset.

Proceeds from the raffle will support the Morris Farm's educational programming for youth and adults, and enhance the commercial kitchen to expand the offering of community classes.

Tickets are $25 each, or 5 for $100, and only 500 will be sold. Each raffle location will be drawn separately. Visit www.morrisfarm.org for photos and more information about the properties. Tickets can be purchased securely on the website.

The drawings will be held the night of the Morris Farm's annual Thanksgiving Potluck Supper, on Thursday, Nov. 21. Winners will be notified immediately if present or will be contacted.

There's still time to get a jump on your civic duty. Wiscasset absentee ballots, including the school district withdrawal question and ones on how to cover the costs, are available at the town clerk's office until 5 p.m., Thursday, Oct. 31. The election is November 5.

Wiscasset's annual Ghosts and Goblins Parade gets under way at 4:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 31, at Wiscasset Middle School. Line up at 4 p.m. The first 200 children get trick or treat bags with goodies and safety glow sticks.

Skidompha Library in Damariscotta gets down to business on November 2, offering “Human Resources 101” from 12:15 to 1:15 p.m. The workshop is free for Skidompha Business Council members; all others, $10. Advance registration is required. Call 207-563-1940 or email devdr@msln.net.

You don't have to be a hunter to come to the Alna Fire Department's hunters' breakfast, from 4:30 a.m. to 9 a.m., Saturday, Nov. 2, at the fire station on Route 218. Cost is $7 for adults, $3 ages 12 and younger.

Although neither Kasey Cromwell nor Sarah Hanley was sure about whose foot was responsible for the kick, both seniors and their team are happy nonetheless.

Wiscasset was able to win its playoff opener October 25 on the kick in overtime and lift Wiscasset over Lisbon, 1-0.

The play unfolded as Cromwell was finally able to gain a little ground on stingy Greyhound defense and bring the ball into the box where she unloaded a screaming kick. The kick ricocheted off Lisbon goalie Alexandra Sult and skittered on the edge of goal – half-in and half-out – before Hanley ended any uncertainty to which side by drilling the ball all the way through.

“It had to go in,” Cromwell said. “I was thinking 'This is it. It has to go in; I'm tired.'”

Hanley said there was no way she was going to let the ball eke out on a night when offense was hard to come by.

“I wasn't sure if it bounced off the goalie or the crossbar,” she said. “I jumped and made sure it went in.”

Cromwell's was one of 28 shots for the Wolverines against five for Lisbon. Sult, who as a freshman was playing in her first playoff game, was able to stifle and stymy the Wolverines for 86 minutes and 51 seconds.

“We knew we had to put a lot of pressure on them,” Hanley said. “We just kept playing hard and kept the pressure up.”

The win pits the fourth ranked Wolverines against Saturday's winner of the Mt. Abram and Waynflete tilt at a later date.

Ben Bulkeley can be reached at 207-633-4620 or bbulkeley@boothbayregister.com. Follow him on Twitter: @BBRegisterBen

The show will go on on for Wiscasset soccer this fall.

Coming off a 1-0 win October 26 in Carrabec, the Wiscasset High School boys varsity soccer team will travel Maranacook to play at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 30.

The Wolverines are coming off a 1-0 nail-biter against Carrabec to advance in the playoffs. The one goal, which was scored by Russell Marr and assisted by JD Souza, was the only goal scored in two tilts between the Carrabec Cobras (7-5-2) and Wiscasset Wolverines (8-4-2) this year.

Maranacook is coming off a regular season in which it did not lose a game on its way to a 12-0-2 record and two seed in the playoffs.

But, it isn't just the boys whose season continues. Both Wiscasset teams will advance in the Western Class C playoffs.

The Wiscasset High School girls varsity soccer team won't have to travel far to take on its next opponent.

Wiscasset will host number five Waynflete at 5 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 29. The Flyers (10-2-2) have not played Wiscasset (11-2-1) this year. Waynflete, like Wiscasset, is coming off a playoff shutout; the Flyers' beat Mt. Abram 5-0 on October 25.

Wiscasset is coming off a well-fought home game on October 25, in which the Wolverines beat Lisbon, 1-0, in overtime.

The show will go on on for Wiscasset soccer this fall.

Coming off a 1-0 win October 26 in Carrabec, the Wiscasset High School boys varsity soccer team will travel to Maranacook to play at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 30.

The Wolverines are coming off a 1-0 nail-biter against Carrabec to advance in the playoffs. The one goal, which was scored by Russell Marr and assisted by JD Souza, was the only goal scored in two tilts between the Carrabec Cobras (7-5-2) and Wiscasset Wolverines (8-4-2) this year.

Maranacook is coming off a regular season in which the team did not lose a game on its way to a 12-0-2 record and two seed in the playoffs.

But the Wolverines, who are in the playoffs for a second straight year, will bring a little firepower of their own.

Sophomore Souza and freshman Marr have led the way for Wiscasset this year, with Souza racking up 19 goals and 10 assists, while Marr was second on the team in both categories with four goals and eight assists.

When the sun goes down, beware. Strange creatures lurk in the Edgecomb woods.

For the past two weeks Cook’s Landing in Edgecomb has hosted a haunted hayride that features plenty of spooks for the whole family.

The hayrides start at 6:30 p.m. and get scarier and gorier as the night goes on.

“It’s a creepy ride and we’re having so much fun,” Cindy Landry said.

When Landry and Brian Cookson bought the property on Route 27, she knew exactly what she wanted to do with the six acres behind the convenience store: scare the crap out of people.

“Scaring the crap out of people” is something that Landry said she is doing for the community, so people have someplace to enjoy the Halloween festivities.

While the word community might not come to mind when grim reapers, werewolves, and chainsaw wielding maniacs hide in the woods waiting for unsuspecting youths, the people behind the masks come together to make this event as fun and hair-raising as possible.

Just ask Jason Moody, also known as the chainsaw wielding maniac.

“The best part of my job is watching everybody run,” Moody said. “It’s fun.”

Moody said he prefers using a Husqvarna brand chainsaw because when the time is right to chase down small children in the night, it’s best to have a chainsaw that starts on the first pull.

“I try to do something like this for every season,” Landry said. “It’s been wicked good.”

Ten percent of the proceeds will go toward a local animal shelter, and the rest will go towards next year’s hayride.

The hayride will be offered on certain weeknights leading up to Halloween, and may extend into the weekend. The last hayride usually ends around 9 p.m. For more information, visit Cooks Landing on Facebook, or call the store at 207-882-8300.

November is here, and it’s brought frost to our doors. Four weeks till Thanksgiving and twice that till Christmas. It seems unbelievable, but it’s true. Did you set your clocks back yet?

On Sunday, Nov. 3, there’s a 3 p.m. show of “Fiddler on the Roof” at Poe Theater in Damariscotta. Oy vey!

Stop by the Lincoln Home in Newcastle this Monday, Nov. 4 for a presentation on restoring old photos to their former glory.

Tuesday, Nov. 5 is election day. While there’s no presidential election, there are many important local votes. In Boothbay, voters must consider a new, controversial TIF district. In Wiscasset, voters will finally get a chance to vote to withdraw from RSU 12.

Most polling places are open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. For Wiscasset area towns’ polling places and times, click here. For the Boothbay region, click here.

On Thursday, Nov. 7 learn the history of Gamage Shipyard in South Bristol at Skidompha Library at 10 a.m.

On Friday, Nov. 8, food historian Sandy Oliver will speak at the Boothbay Harbor Town Office in a Literary Luncheon starting at 11:45 a.m.

Saturday, Nov. 9 is Wiscasset’s foray into the season’s retail sales with its Early Riser event. Learn more about the big deals here.

Chewonki announced today that it has been honored with a prestigious 2013 Top-Rated Award by GreatNonprofits, the leading provider of user reviews about nonprofit organizations.

“We are excited to be named a Top-Rated 2013 Nonprofit,” said Betta Stothart, Director of Communications for Chewonki. We are proud of our accomplishments this year, including finalizing a new mission for the organization and serving an increasingly diverse audience of campers, students and schools.”

The top-rated nonprofit award was based on the large number of positive reviews that Chewonkireceived, reviews written by volunteers, donors and clients. People posted their personal experience with the nonprofit. For example, here are a few quotes:

“Chewonki changed the way I will live my life forever ....”

“Chewonki has had a profound influence on my life and three of my children as well ....”

“Chewonki is an amazing place where children and adults can learn more about the natural world and the future of sustainability while also learning more about themselves!”

While the top-rated awards run through the end of October, Chewonki was part of the inaugural group to qualify for the year. “Savvy donors want to see the impact of their donations more than ever,” said Perla Ni, CEO of GreatNonprofits. “People with direct experience with Chewonki have voted that the organization is making a real difference.”

Being on the top-rated list gives donors and volunteers more confidence that this is a credible organization. The reviews by volunteers, clients and other donors show the on-the-ground results of this nonprofit. This award is a form of recognition by the community.

The train’s a comin’.

A longer season (July 2-October 13, 2014) from Maine Eastern Railroad will feature a completely new short scenic ride based in Wiscasset, a new connection with Amtrak’s popular Downeaster in Brunswick and a new station stop in Newcastle.

The Wiscasset Station, formerly located at the town’s public boat launch and docks, will be relocated north of Route 1 to its historic location along Railroad Avenue.

A permanent station platform will be constructed, and the Maine Eastern’s vintage caboose (currently stored in Rockland) will be reconfigured as a ticket office and relocated to the Wiscasset waterfront.

While the Maine Eastern has been operating round-trip excursion service between Brunswick and Rockland for 10 years, the 2014 season will feature an additional train operating out of Wiscasset.

Called the Wiscasset Flyer, this train will operate short 45-minute and 1-hour round trips to Newcastle and Bath on Saturdays to appeal to tourists who want to see the most scenic parts of the route without riding the whole distance to Rockland.

New Newcastle Station Stop

Also new for the 2014 season is the Maine Eastern’s station stop in Newcastle, serving the twin cities of Newcastle and Damariscotta.

In cooperation with both towns and Country Coach Charters, shuttle bus service will be available from the station into the downtown areas of Newcastle and Damariscotta.

From Boston to Rockland, by train

The Maine Eastern’s MidCoast Limited excursion service will make both northbound and southbound connections with the Amtrak Downeaster in Brunswick Station, allowing passengers from Portland, Boston, and other points south to travel to Rockland by rail via the Maine Eastern Railroad’s excursion service.

Ticket prices have been reduced 10-20 percent.

Food service, gift shop

On service from Brunswick to Rockland, passengers will have an onboard snack bar and gift shop, which will sell drinks, snacks and Maine Eastern souvenirs.

For more information, visit the railroad’s new website, www.maineeasternrailroad.com. For schedules, click the PDF attached to this article.

Thursday, Nov. 7: American Red Cross Blood Drive in the YMCA gym, 1-6 p.m.

Cardio Tennis is held every Tuesday at 6 p.m. and Wednesday at 5 p.m.

High School Tennis Clinics are held every Wednesday at 6 p.m.

Friday, Nov. 8: Y Dance for grades 6,7 and 8, 7-10 p.m. $5 admission

Friday, Nov. 8: Free Men and Women’s Tennis Social, 7 to 8 p.m.

Saturday, Nov. 9: Free 10-11 a.m., Girls basketball clinic for girls in grades 4, 5 and 6 interested in playing Y League basketball.

Saturday, Nov. 9: Free 11 a.m.-noon, Boys basketball clinic for boys in grades 4, 5 and 6 interested in playing Y League basketball.

Saturday, Nov. 9: Dine for Dollars at the Thistle Inn. Thirty percent of your bill supports Y-Arts youth headed to Atlanta. Please make a reservation at the Thistle. Free babysitting provided at the Y by calling 207-633-2855 and asking for Emily Mirabile or email Emily at emirabile@brymca.org.

The first-ever online Boothbay Register/Wiscasset Newspaper Staff Pro Football Challenge continues into the second half of the NFL season. Each week, staff members Ben “The Incredible Bulk” Bulkeley, Kevin “The Hammer” Burnham, Nicole “The Lion” Lyons, Katrina “The Ninja” Clark, Mike “Big Scar” Scarborough, Mike “The Iron Horse” Marr and Gary “Mad Stork” Dow “try” to pick the winners of each NFL game by Wednesday evening (each week there is a Thursday game). The winner (best winning percentage) at the end of the regular season will be treated to a prize (we haven’t come up with one yet). We will post each players record from the following week.

Week 9 standings: Ben 8-5; Katrina 7-6; Gary 7-6; Kevin 7-6; Mike S. 7-6; Nicole 6-7; Mike M. 6-7;

Overall: Ben 82-51; Kevin 80-53; Mike M. 78-55; Mike S. 77-56; Nicole 75-58; Katrina 73-60; Gary 70-63

Week 9 Comments: Ben wins another week's picks and takes a two-game lead. Miami wins then falls apart. Gary wins with Cleveland (yeah)! Oakland failed six of us. Who are the NY Jets? Tough week for most of us.

Week 10 Prognosis: New England has a week off to heal. Denver returns to action at San Diego — close one? Missing starting QB's (Philadelphia at Green Bay). Carolina at San Francisco and Cincinnati at Baltimore should be good games to watch. Will Miami be able to come together as a team in a hostile environment? Will Jacksonville win this week? Nobody picked them here, but there are a few split picks this week.

Week 10 picks

Washington at Minnesota: Washington: Mike S. Gary, Mike M., Kevin, Ben; Minnesota: Katrina, Nicole

Buffalo at Pittsburgh: Buffalo: Kevin, Ben; Pittsburgh: Mike S., Gary, Katrina, Mike M., Nicole

Cincinnati at Baltimore: Cincinnati: Mike S., Mike M., Ben, Nicole; Baltimore: Gary, Katrina, Kevin

Detroit at Chicago: Detroit: Gary, Katrina, Ben; Chicago: Mike S., Mike M., Kevin, Nicole

Jacksonville at Tennessee: Jacksonville: Tennessee: Mike S., Gary, Katrina, Mike M., Kevin, Ben, Nicole

Oakland at NY Giants: Oakland: Mike M., Nicole; NY Giants: Mike S., Gary, Katrina, Kevin, Ben

Philadelphia at Green Bay: Philadelphia: Gary, Mike M., Kevin, Ben, Nicole; Green Bay: Mike S., Katrina

Seattle at Atlanta: Seattle: Mike S., Katrina, Mike M., Kevin, Ben; Atlanta: Gary, Nicole

St. Louis at Indianapolis: St. Louis: Indianapolis: Mike S., Gary, Katrina, Mike M., Kevin, Ben, Nicole

Carolina at San Francisco: Carolina: Ben, Nicole; San Francisco: Mike S., Gary, Katrina, Mike M., Kevin

Denver at San Diego: Denver: Mike S., Katrina, Mike M., Kevin; San Diego: Gary, Ben, Nicole

Houston at Arizona: Houston: Katrina, Nicole; Arizona: Mike S., Gary, Mike M., Kevin

Dallas at New Orleans: Dallas: Gary, Nicole; New Orleans: Mike S., Katrina, Mike M., Kevin, Ben

Miami at Tampa Bay: Miami: Mike S., Gary, Katrina, Kevin, Nicole; Tampa Bay: Mike M., Ben

The players

Ben “The Incredible Bulk” Bulkeley used to play football. He used to weigh over 200 pounds, but he wanted to play wide receiver, so he slimmed down drinking Slim Fast and cutting down on his Devil Dog consumption.

Kevin “The Hammer” Burnham played football locally and was on the 1973 Class D championship team, which is celebrating its 40th anniversary this season. He played linebacker and running back and suffered a few concussions during his playing days ... which may explain a lot.

Nicole “The Lion” Lyons watches football ... sometimes.

Katrina “The Ninja” Clark likes to make her picks by blindfolding herself and throwing darts at the chart in her backyard. Once in a while she even hits it. More often she hits the squirrels.

Mike "Big Scar" Scarborough last played organized football in junior high. He played both ways as a lineman, offensive and defensive tackle. Big Scar was a "speed lineman," who loved nothing better than running down a QB in the backfield.

Gary "Mad Stork" Dow played defensive end for the 1972 Class A state runner-up Edward Little "Red Eddies" of Auburn. He alleges he was selected "All-State" but since this was before the creation of the Internet, there is no way to confirm it. He went to play for the University of Maine from 1973-1976 as a defensive end and outside linebacker. He states he won Eastern Collegiate Athletic Association (ECAC) Player of the Week honors against Bucknell University in the fall of 1975, but again, there is no way to confirm this claim either.

Mike “The Iron Horse” Marr made a name for himself in junior high and intramural sports with his aggressive and undisciplined playing technique, often going for the biggest guy on the field and stiff arming. When in a clutch position on the field, he drew attention by using modern dance techniques, something nobody wanted to see. To this day, he still can't watch “Flashdance” without tapping his feet.

At the Boothbay Railway Village, it’s fitting that November is the month to celebrate model railroading, because despite most of the museum having been put to bed for the season, the model railroad volunteers are back in full swing.

Every Thursday volunteers are mixing up plaster, roughing in wiring, and tinkering with tiny details on the Museum’s outstanding HO scale model. This model has been under construction since the fall of 2006 and measures nearly 46 feet long by 20 feet wide. With more than 600 feet of track and nearly 100 turn outs, this is a monumental task to build, especially when every detail matters.

National Model Railroad Month started in 1971 and has continued to grow ever since perhaps because those who participate are able to construct their own world from the ground up; you might consider it the original hands-on version of The Sims, the immensely popular video game series. From woodworking to electrical and scenic artwork to model building, people of all ages enjoy the hobby.

Model Railroading is a hobby that is accessible to most anyone and even enjoyed by many celebrities, past and present, including Rod Stewart, Walt Disney, Neil Young, Frank Sinatra, Mel Torme, Phil Collins and even Joe DiMaggio.

The Boothbay Railway Village staff and board of directors extends great appreciation and endless thanks to those volunteers who dedicate hundreds of hours every year to the project. The entire project is funded by donations and by sales at several regional model railroading shows. The group is happy to accept donations of gently used model railroading equipment and supplies that they repair and recondition to use or sell at shows.

The model railroaders are always looking for new faces to join them for their Thursday work sessions. If you have a passion and experience with model railroads contact Ron Spinney at 207-633-3018 or rspinney@northeast-security.com to sign up for the next work session. Those who would like to make contributions or donate equipment can also contact Ron to arrange pick-up or drop-off.

To learn more about the Model Railroad Exhibit visit www.railwayvillage.org. You’ll find an entire section of the site devoted to the project. The Boothbay Railway Village is located at 586 Wiscasset Road, Route 27 in Boothbay.

The Damariscotta River Association (DRA) has announced that Vacation Days Nature Camps will be offered Monday, Nov. 25, Monday, Dec. 30 and Tuesday, Dec. 31 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day. These programs will offer outdoor nature exploration for children ages 5 to 12.

The November session will focus on owls. Each participant will dissect an owl pellet and reassemble the prey skeleton to identify what was eaten. The group will also explore the fields and forests to look for owl roosting sites and other signs of owls.

Participants will play games that teach ecological concepts. “The kids do not think about that, they are having fun outdoors and do not even realize how much they are learning until later,” DRA Education Coordinator Sarah Gladu said.

The December sessions will focus on Maine’s Mammals and how they survive winter. Each day will focus on a specific mammal. Participants will hike for animal tracks and signs, keep a nature journal, make a plaster track to take home and play nature-inspired games.

The fee is $60 per day and participants may register for all days or just specific days. Call DRA to register for these programs. Limited scholarships are available. A health form will be required for all participants.

For more information call 207- 563-1393, email dra@damariscottariver.org, or view their web page at www.damariscottariver.org.

The first-ever online Boothbay Register/Wiscasset Newspaper Staff Pro Football Challenge continues into the second half of the NFL season. Each week, staff members Ben “The Incredible Bulk” Bulkeley, Kevin “The Hammer” Burnham, Nicole “The Lion” Lyons, Katrina “The Ninja” Clark, Mike “Big Scar” Scarborough, Mike “The Iron Horse” Marr and Gary “Mad Stork” Dow “try” to pick the winners of each NFL game by Wednesday evening (each week there is a Thursday game). The winner (best winning percentage) at the end of the regular season will be treated to a prize (we haven’t come up with one yet). We will post each players record from the following week.

Week 10 standings: Ben 8-6; Katrina 8-6; Kevin 7-7; Mike M. 7-7; Gary 6-8; Mike S. 6-8; Nicole 4-10;

Overall: Ben 90-57; Kevin 87-60; Mike M. 85-62; Mike S. 84-63; Katrina 81-66; Nicole 79-68; Gary 76-71

Week 10 Comments: Ben extends his lead over Kevin by three games. Katrina overtakes Nicole in the standings with a good week. At least two Florida teams are happy these days as Tampa Bay and Jacksonville got their first wins of the season, while the Miami drama continues. Indianapolis didn't show up against St. Louis. And the Cowboys got spanked by the Saints.

Week 11 Prognosis: The four 6-3 teams, Panthers, Colts, Forty-Niners and Lions, aren't assured of wins this week. Three are playing on the road and Carolina will try to upset the Patriots at home. That's how crazy this season has been. Twelve teams have either five wins or four wins .... Hardly a week where there's a clear favorite. And Cincinnati, at 6-4, has lost two straight. Looks like another .500 week for the bulk of us Challengers.

Week 11 picks

Indianapolis at Tennessee: Indianapolis: Katrina, Kevin, Mike S., Mike M., Gary, Nicole; Tennessee: Ben

Arizona at Jacksonville: Arizona: Katrina, Kevin, Ben, Mike S., Mike M., Gary, Nicole; Jacksonville:

Atlanta at Tampa Bay: Atlanta: Katrina, Kevin, Ben, Mike M.; Tampa Bay: Mike S., Gary, Nicole

Baltimore at Chicago: Baltimore: Ben, Kevin, Nicole; Chicago: Katrina, Mike S., Mike M., Gary

Cleveland at Cincinnati: Cleveland: Kevin; Cincinnati: Katrina, Ben, Mike S., Mike M., Gary, Nicole

Detroit at Pittsburgh: Detroit: Katrina, Kevin, Ben, Mike S., Mike M.; Pittsburgh: Gary, Nicole

NY Jets at Buffalo: NY Jets: Katrina, Ben, Mike S., Mike M., Gary; Buffalo: Kevin, Nicole

Oakland at Houston: Oakland: Katrina, Mike S., Nicole; Houston: Ben, Kevin, Mike M., Gary

San Diego at Miami: San Diego: Katrina, Kevin, Ben, Mike S., Mike M.; Miami: Gary, Nicole

Washington at Philadelphia: Washington: Philadelphia: Katrina, Ben, Kevin, Mike S., Mike M., Gary, Nicole

Kansas City at Denver: Kansas City: Kevin; Denver: Katrina, Ben, Mike S., Mike M., Gary, Nicole

Minnesota at Seattle: Minnesota: Nicole; Seattle: Katrina, Ben, Kevin, Mike S., Mike M., Gary

San Francisco at New Orleans: San Francisco: Katrina, Ben; New Orleans: Kevin, Mike S., Mike M., Gary, Nicole

Green Bay at NY Giants: Green Bay: Ben, Mike S., Nicole; NY Giants: Katrina, Kevin, Mike M., Gary

New England at Carolina: New England: Katrina, Kevin, Mike S., Mike M., Gary, Nicole; Carolina: Ben

The players

Ben “The Incredible Bulk” Bulkeley used to play football. He used to weigh over 200 pounds, but he wanted to play wide receiver, so he slimmed down drinking Slim Fast and cutting down on his Devil Dog consumption.

Kevin “The Hammer” Burnham played football locally and was on the 1973 Class D championship team, which is celebrating its 40th anniversary this season. He played linebacker and running back and suffered a few concussions during his playing days ... which may explain a lot.

Nicole “The Lion” Lyons watches football ... sometimes.

Katrina “The Ninja” Clark likes to make her picks by blindfolding herself and throwing darts at the chart in her backyard. Once in a while she even hits it. More often she hits the squirrels.

Mike "Big Scar" Scarborough last played organized football in junior high. He played both ways as a lineman, offensive and defensive tackle. Big Scar was a "speed lineman," who loved nothing better than running down a QB in the backfield.

Gary "Mad Stork" Dow played defensive end for the 1972 Class A state runner-up Edward Little "Red Eddies" of Auburn. He alleges he was selected "All-State" but since this was before the creation of the Internet, there is no way to confirm it. He went to play for the University of Maine from 1973-1976 as a defensive end and outside linebacker. He states he won Eastern Collegiate Athletic Association (ECAC) Player of the Week honors against Bucknell University in the fall of 1975, but again, there is no way to confirm this claim either.

Mike “The Iron Horse” Marr made a name for himself in junior high and intramural sports with his aggressive and undisciplined playing technique, often going for the biggest guy on the field and stiff arming. When in a clutch position on the field, he drew attention by using modern dance techniques, something nobody wanted to see. To this day, he still can't watch “Flashdance” without tapping his feet.