The men’s and women’s HarborFest 5k winners objective during the second annual race was to beat the competition and the clock. The winners not only finished first in their respective races, but also achieved their personal goals.

Nick Scott, 33, of Boothbay won the men’s division with a 16 minute and 29 second mark. His goal was to finish the 3.1 mile course in 16 minutes and 30 seconds. Scott led the race from the start and victory never seemed in doubt.

“I had the home course advantage. I knew I could run hard on the first part because it was downhill, and conserve energy around mile three because it was uphill,” Scott said. “I won the race, but I still wanted to beat my goal.”

New Hampshire resident Jennifer Cusick, 50, also dominated her race with a 23 minute 27 second mark. Her strategy was simple.

“I wanted to beat 24 minutes and that’s what I did,” she said.

The HarborFest 5k drew 140 runners: 37 female and 38 male. The HarborFest half marathon drew 65 runners - 43 female and 22 male - who ran the 13.1 mile course.

The half-marathon winners were Jimmie Cochran who won the men’s race in one hour 25 minute and 11 seconds. Lauren Murray won the female division in one hour thirty seven minute and 8 seconds. The men’s runner-up was Luke Merkel who finished 4 minutes and 26 behind Cochran. Female runner-up Margaret Giles finished six minutes and 8 seconds behind Murray.

The two races drew competitors from 17 states.

The HarborFest races are a fundraiser for the Central Lincoln County and Boothbay Region YMCA’s. CLC YMCA chief executive officer Meagan Hamblett said race proceeds would either fund a diabetes prevention or a summer learning program.

Video by ART MAYERS/Boothbay Register

The Sheepscot River was largely calm at Alna’s Head Tide Dam the night of Sept. 9, but the ideas were flowing. Representatives were there from a firm the Atlantic Salmon Federation has hired to draw up designs for the Head Tide Dam Committee and the rest of the town to consider.

Much of the talk near the dam’s platform centered on how to honor the site’s history and keep and possibly improve river access for recreation, all while meeting the federation’s goal of improved fish passage if residents OK a plan.

The federation’s vice president of U.S. programs, Andrew Goode, said displaying the history in some form could help draw visitors. Committee Chairman David Reingardt wasn’t sure townspeople were interested in increasing visitors to the site, but he said residents do care about the history and would want to preserve it.

If not for a dam being there to power industry, the Head Tide neighborhood would not have been built, said neighbor and committee member Gerry Flanagan.

“There’s a human history here. Memorializing it (and) leaving artifacts is important,” he said.

Inter-Fluve’s consultants asked committee members and other attendees how they would like to see the history displayed. Panels are commonly used, including removable ones where winters are harsh, Goode said.

Member Chris Kenoyer suggested fitting artifacts into the setting. That would help avoid the spoon-fed feel of some historic sites where everything is presented formally, he said.

“There’s a lot to be said for it being more of a discovery.”

Throughout the meeting, children and adults could be seen below, using a long-popular swimming hole near the dam. Inter-Fluve consultant Nick Nelson said it appeared so far that the pool would still be there if an existing opening in the dam is widened. “There’s nothing that jumps out at me right now (to indicate) that would change if we widen the hole.”

That would be important information for residents to hear, because people have been concerned about losing the pool if changes are made to the dam, Kenoyer said.

Alna resident Joe Barth and committee members noted that the river sometimes moves a lot faster than it was that night, and at times runs over the dam. Barth told the consultants they might have a much better sense of the river’s behavior there if they could observe it at other times.

Members said they would like to see the platform and its railings stabilized; paths to the river made easier for paddlers and other users; the possible addition of mounted binoculars for use free of charge; and equipment to view fish moving underwater. “There’s got to be a way to do that,” Kenoyer said.

The work could also remove vegetation overgrowths, such as a tree if its roots are contributing to the concrete’s deterioration, Goode said.

Tree removal would take planning board approval because the site is in the shoreland zone, Barth said.

A project the federation undertakes at the site would likely take multiple years to raise funds, get local, state and federal permits and to complete, Goode said.

Junne McIntyre had a day for the record books netting five goals for Troy Howard Middle School in a 6-2 win over the host Wolverines on Wednesday afternoon, Sept. 9.

If soccer games were decided by halves, the Wolverines would have actually won because they outscored the Lions 2-1 in the second half. Unfortunately, that’s not how it works, although Wiscasset did play a lot better on both ends of the field as the game progressed.

Conditions were sunny, hot, and very humid for the opening kickoff won by Wiscasset. Ninety seconds into the game, McIntyre broke free, then dribbled between two defenders and scored. Her shot rolled just beyond the reach of Wolverine keeper Lilly Souza.

Almost before the dust settled McIntyre found the net for her second goal. She got a hat trick before halftime.

About midway into the half, the Lions made it 4-0. After the Wolverines were whistled for a penalty just outside the 18-yard line, the ensuing direct kick deflected off Belfast’s Aliesha Berube and bounced into the net. It was just a bad break for Wiscasset. With four minutes left McIntyre then netted her fourth goal, a nice shot low to the right post to put her team up 5-0.

Wiscasset had three or four first half scoring opportunities, the best coming as the final minute was ticking down. Cala Viele, on the right wing, broke free and carried the ball inside the 18-yard line. She caught the Belfast keeper flat-footed but her shot to the near post missed wide right.

The Wolverines played much better on both sides of the field in the second half. Ellie Pratt took over as keeper and Sousa went to midfield. It proved a good tactical move for the red and white. Within a minute after play resumed Wiscasset was on the scoreboard. Viele who had been around the Lions’ net a good deal of the first half found Natalie Potter open in the goal mouth. Potter fired and the ball went over the keeper’s head to put Wiscasset on the scoreboard. The goal picked up the team’s spirits and got a loud round of applause from the Wolverine fans.

Not to be denied, Belfast scored again. Guess who? McIntyre. With the score 6-1 the Wolverines could have given up but instead kept the offensive pressure on. It paid off at the 9:28 mark when Farrah Casey found the net, scoring an unassisted goal with 9:28 left to play.

Neither bench kept a scorebook. Wiscasset’s keepers, Souza and Pratt combined for 15 or so saves. Strange as this sounds Troy Howard’s keepers recorded about the same number.

Afterwards Wolverine Coach Daniela Marino said she felt her offense had played pretty well.

“We had our chances to score and I saw some good teamwork as the game progressed,” she said. The team has a few days off and Coach Marino said she’ll make good use the time to work with the backfield and goalies to improve the defense. The team has a solid roster (about 18 players) which means they’ll only get better as the season progresses.

According to the revised schedule, the team is away for its next game traveling to Oceanside 1, Sept. 17. The Wolverines return for a home game with CRMS Monday, Sept. 21, the boys team plays first.

Wiscasset Middle High School boys and girls cross country runners competed in their first meet Wednesday, Sept. 9, at Winthrop High School.

The race matched distance runners from seven high schools including Boothbay, Lisbon, Monmouth, Richmond and Hall-Dale.

In the girl’s race, Wiscasset’s Amanda Johnson finished in 24th place with a time of 31:51.7. Her teammate Amanda Marcus was close behind in 29th place, 33:01.6. There were 38 runners who took part in the race.

In the boy’s race, Angus Putnam crossed the finish in 35th place for WMHS. His time was 27:27.5. Sam Whitney finished 37th at 28:04.1. There were 46 runners competing.

Wolverine Coach Eva Castor said considering the heat and humidity she felt her runners did a great job.

“I have seen improvement every practice from both the boys and girls,” she told the newspaper. “Amanda Johnson and Amanda Marcus ran their best times so far this season,” Castor added.

Because the Wolverines only fielded two runners, they did not place as a team. The rules require five runners in both the boys and girls races. Teams are awarded points depending on where their runners finish; one point for a first place finish, two for second, three for third and so on.

The Wolverines will be in Bath on Tuesday for a meet at Hyde School. This meet was not listed on the team’s earlier schedule.

A busy first week of soccer saw the Wiscasset Middle High School girls varsity squad capture its first win and had the boys team battling their rivals.

The boys team has faced a gauntlet of playoff-caliber teams, including the third, fourth, and eighth-ranked teams in the conference.

Both the Wiscasset boys and girls teams fell to their South Class C rival Carrabec in the opening game of the season Wednesday, Sept. 9. The girls fell, 7-2 to the 2-1 Lady Cobras, who occupy the seventh spot in South Class C. The Wiscasset boys were tripped up and fell by a score of 5-0 to the 2-1-1 Cobras, who are ranked fourth in South Class C.

On Friday, Sept. 11, the girls team traveled to play the third-ranked Monmouth Mustangs. Monmouth was relentless in its attack — the Mustangs scored six first-half goals — en route to a 10-0 win. The win helped propel the Monmouth girls team to a 2-0 record.

On Saturday, Sept. 12, both teams traveled to Dixfield to play rival Dirigo.

The girls were able to net a pair of goals for the 2-0 win over 11th-ranked Dirigo (0-2) while both boys teams exchanged firepower in a 5-3 Cougars victory. The win gave Dirigo's boys team a 1-2 record, which pushed the Cougars into eighth place in South Class C. Wiscasset's win moved the Wolverines to 1-2 overall and up to 10thplace in South Class C.

On Monday, the boys team welcomed a 1-0-2 Hall-Dale team to Wiscasset, where the Bulldogs were able to escape with a 3-0 win. The loss moved Wiscasset to 0-3 on the year, while the win moved Hall-Dale to 2-0-2 and up to third place in South Class C.

The girls team played Hall-Dale Tuesday, Sept. 15, before returning home Thursday, Sept. 17, to battle the Lisbon Greyhounds (0-2) at 6 p.m. The boys travel to Monmouth on Wednesday, Sept. 16, then return home for a match-up with with second-ranked Lisbon (4-0) on Friday, Sept. 18.

Brandon Goud placed second for the Wiscasset Wolverines at a cross country meet with the Hyde School in Bath on Tuesday.

Goud finished at 18:49 while his teammate Sam Storer placed 13th at 21:45. Angus Putnam crossed the finish line in 32ndplace (24:04) in a field of 60 runners.

In the girls race, Wiscasset Middle High School’s Amanda Johnson was 37th with a time of 31:07 and Amanda Marcus 43rd overall finishing at 33:54.

“Both Brandon Goud and Sam Storer ran their first race of the season and did an amazing job,” Wolverine Coach Eva Castor said. “Both Angus Putnam and Amanda Johnson improved their times from the last race by a tremendous amount.” 

WMHS travels to Boothbay Region Wednesday for its next meet. Lisbon, Monmouth Academy, Hall-Dale and St. Dom’s will be there as well. The Mid Season Race in scheduled for Sept. 23 and will be hosted by the University of Maine Augusta. The race to begin at 4:15 p.m.

Wiscasset Middle High School Wolverines Amanda Marcus and Sam Whitney ran their best cross country races of the season Wednesday afternoon at Boothbay Region Schools.

Along with WMHS and Boothbay Region, runners from St. Doms, Hall-Dale, Monmouth Academy and Lisbon competed.

Marcus’ time was 31:58, she placed 33rd, just behind her teammate Amanda Johnson who was 32 at 31:58; 39 runners took part in the race.

Whitney finished 44th overall in a field of 51 runners with a time of 26:58. His teammate Angus Putnam was 31st with a time of 23:19.

Neither Wolverine team, boys or girls, scored due to a lack of runners. Five are needed for a team score.

“All runners raced well today with Angus Putnam, Sam Whitney, and Amanda Marcus getting a personal best,” WMHS Coach Eva Castor said afterwards. “Both Amandas and Angus ran yesterday at Hyde so I knew they would be tired today. I am proud of their efforts.”

The team’s next meet is Sept. 24 at the University of Maine Augusta. The race begins at 4:15 p.m.

The Wiscasset Municipal Airport Advisory Committee on Sept. 16 took issue with airport manager Frank Costa’s handling of a recent flying complaint. Members questioned Costa’s writing of a letter to a flying club about a low-flying plane that airport neighbor Chewonki Campground reported.

The information that Costa and committee member Pam Brackett, one of the campground’s owners, provided on the Aug. 29 incident did not point to any flight rules having been broken, pilots on the committee said.

They said that Flight Time, the club that Costa wrote the letter to, has some of the best pilots who use the town-owned airport.

“These people are also customers of the airport,” committee member Steve Williams told Costa. “I hope you are handling them in a delicate and professional (way).”

Williams and other committee members encouraged Costa, who is not a pilot, to contact them about flying complaints so that he will have the benefit of their knowledge. “We have resources we would like to offer you,” Williams said.

“I appreciate you offering, but at the same time, what is, is,” Costa responded. During the meeting and after it, he expressed confidence that he acted correctly in writing the letter.

The Sept. 8 letter describes an Aug. 29 complaint from Brackett about a plane flying several times over the campground and its pool.

“This letter is to serve as a reminder ... of the safety rules in place by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) concerning low flying aircraft and populated areas as well as the Wiscasset airport rules .... (Flying) in a straight line to the posted altitude will without a doubt (avoid) any and all complaints regarding noise and or low flying over populated areas,” it states.

Committee members said the federal rules Costa was referring to do not apply to takeoff and landing.

“The letter is on airport letterhead stating FAA rules that don’t apply. That’s what we’re upset about,” member Kevin Sprague said.

The letter also refers to a sign posted at the airport, directing pilots to fly straight. Pilots attempt to do so, but may be affected by other factors, mainly wind, Williams said.

If a plane has a full load of occupants and fuel, that can also make a difference, Committee Chairman Ken Boudin said.

Costa said the campground’s complaint occurred on a windy day.

Brackett told fellow committee members there was only one instance of a plane flying over the pool.

“This is a delicate situation, and I try really hard to not call because it just raises some issues,” Brackett said. “One plane was ... angled right over the pool when I was standing there.”

A town official happened to be visiting the campground that afternoon, Costa states in the letter. Costa said Sept. 16 that the official was Town Manager Marian Anderson, and that she later spoke with him about the incident.

The conversation with Anderson did not prompt him to write the letter, Costa said. He wrote it to follow up on a conversation he had with club members after Brackett called, he said.

Reached after the Sept. 16 committee meeting, Flight Time Vice President Jack Swanton of Westport Island said club members were flying their shared plane that day, but took the care they always take to avoid bothering the campground.

“It wasn’t anything to do with us,” Swanton said in a telephone interview. The nonprofit club’s pilots take great care to be good neighbors to the campground and not create problems for it, he said. It was probably a plane with a pilot less familiar than they are with the Wiscasset airport, he said.

Swanton confirmed that Costa spoke with club members that day; he had not seen the letter, but said club members have not expressed any concern about how they are treated by the airport.

When told on Sept. 17 that Swanton said a club plane was not involved, Costa said, “That’s good enough for me. That’s the end of it.”

Lease talks continue

The committee directed Costa to take a new recommendation to Anderson regarding a possible hike in the rent Peregrine Turbine Technologies pays for space upstairs at the terminal building. The committee supported proposing the business pay the town $900 a month, to factor in toiletries and airport staff’s cleaning time.

Peregrine currently pays $800 a month, Costa said.

A new deal would be up to Peregrine and Wiscasset selectmen to agree on, committee members said.

Peregrine did not have representatives at the committee meeting. Answering the Wiscasset Newspaper’s questions by email earlier Sept. 16, Peregrine co-founder David Stapp stated that the business would like more space at the airport and has explored the idea with the committee. “But so far nothing has panned out.

“I continue to keep my eye out for other available space and have looked at Brunswick and Damariscotta. All else being equal I'd rather stay here,” Stapp writes.

Foreign Automobiles of all marques and models take center stage at the Owls Head Transportation Museum’s Foreign Auto Festival, Saturday, Sept. 26, and Sunday, Sept. 27.

The museum’s annual salute to the diverse world of foreign automobiles features hundreds of stunning vintage vehicles from around the world. The featured marque for the 2015 Foreign Auto Festival is Mercedes-Benz. Mercedes automobiles of any vintage and all pre-1995 vehicles are admitted free. Free kids activities and Model T rides ensure that there is plenty of fun for the whole family at this great autumn event.

A special display will feature a stunning 1960 Mercedes 300 SL roadster owned by Ray Ayer. Additional special will include a demonstration of the museum’s 1886 Benz replica and 1904/05 Mercedes Simplex, a vehicle that is seldom demonstrated at Museum events due to its rarity. Other automobiles from the museum’s collection will be demonstrated including the 1913 Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost.

Gates open to the public at 9 a.m.; exhibitor gates open at 8 a.m. All pre-1995 vehicles and all organized automobile clubs are welcome to exhibit. Exhibitors and one guest get in free. Clubs wishing to arrange parking are encouraged to call in advance of the event.

Admission is $16 for adults and, as always, children under 18, as well as retired and active duty Military (Uniformed Services ID required) are admitted to the museum and show free of charge. Refreshments catered by French & Brawn Catering and Market Place will be available for purchase at the Caboose during both days of the show. No pets are allowed in the museum or on show grounds.

Any visitor who renews their membership or purchases a new membership on the day of an event is entered in a drawing for a ride in the Museum’s 1941 Stearman Biplane.

The Owls Head Transportation Museum is located at 117 Museum Street in Owls Head, Maine, directly off of Route 73. The Museum is open seven days a week, year round. For more information please contact Owls Head Transportation Museum Public Relations Director Jenna Lookner at 207-594-4418.

Camden-Rockport Middle School scored three unanswered goals in the second half, which turned what had been a close boys soccer game into a 5-1 win over host Wiscasset Elementary School on Monday afternoon, Sept. 21.

After staking the visitors to a 2-0 lead, Wiscasset rallied back. Brian Foye passed the ball off to Aiden Foley who was open in the goalmouth. Foley’s shot found the net and just like that it was 2-1; the goal came with 4:13 left in the first half.

Wiscasset keeper Dakota Jones kept CRMS off the scoreboard until 20:21 when the visitors netted their first goal. A scrum in front of the Wolverine net with 13:00 left ended with CRMS scoring again to go up 2-0. Wiscasset’s offense then came to life. The Wolverines drove deep and got off a pair of shots, the first rolling wide right. Foley then broke free and carried the ball inside the 18, but his shot was blocked by the CRMS keeper.

Coach Brian Simmonds did a nice job encouraging his Wolverines from the sideline. When the horn sounded ending the half, it looked like the momentum was shifting in Wiscasset’s favor.

CRMS had other ideas and took charge in the second half. They went up 3-1 at 19:32, and 4-1 at 16:56. The final goal came in the last two minutes of the game.

Jones made some fine stops in the net. Although a scorebook wasn’t kept, he probably recorded about 15 saves. The goalie for CRMS had about nine stops, most of those Wiscasset shots coming in the first half.

The Wolverines deserve a lot of credit for not quitting. They played hard right up the final seconds of the game.

Wiscasset’s schedule doesn’t get any easier. They play their next four games on the road, Searsport on Thursday, Great Salt Bay in Damariscotta on Sept. 28, Boothbay Sept. 30, and Medomak in Waldoboro Oct. 5. The Wolverines close out the regular season at home vs. Woolwich on Oct. 7.

River Arts in Damariscotta, is teaming up with the Sheepscot Valley Conservation Association for its next open juried show. The opening reception is scheduled for Friday, Oct. 9, from 5-7 p.m. The exhibition will hang through Nov. 5.

River Arts is inviting artists to submit work portraying the flora, fauna and vistas of the Sheepscot Watershed from Boothbay Harbor to Freedom. We are seeking submissions in any media, sculpture and fine crafts welcome.

Artists can enter up to three works for jurying. Entry fees are $15 entry for members and $20 for non-members. Wall-hung work should be no more than 60 inches in height, 42 inches in width. For safety reasons plexiglass or other non-glass option should be used for work over 34 inches, excluding pastels. Entry forms are available online www.riverartsme.org or at the gallery. All work entered must be for sale.

Work can be submitted during gallery hours anytime up to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 3 at 4 p.m.

The juror for this show will be Bob Keyes, writer for the Portland Press Herald.

Established in 1969, the Sheepscot Valley Conservation Association (SVCA) is a nonprofit land trust and advocacy group. A map of the Sheepscot Watershed can be viewed at www.sheepscot.org/art_show, or can be picked up at River Arts.

River Arts, located at 241 US Route 1 in Damariscotta, is open Tuesday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

For queries call 207-563-1507 or email info@riverartsme.org.

With fall almost officially upon the region, the time for homecoming is near.

Wiscasset Middle High School will host its homecoming activities this weekend with a pair of games, a dance, and a new wrinkle this year.

On Friday, Sept. 25, there will be a spirit rally at the high school at 1:50 p.m. and the homecoming dance will be at 8 p.m. and run until 11 p.m.

This year, several Wiscasset town officials and middle high school staff members will likely get doused to benefit the Wiscasset Boosters Club.

The Boosters club announced that it will host a dunk tank and will be selling three shots at dunking a well-known face for $1.

Beginning Saturday, participants will have a chance to soak several Wiscasset notables, including Boosters President Gordon Campbell from noon to 12:30 p.m., Middle High School Principal Cheri Towle from 12:30 p.m. to 1 p.m., Middle High School French teacher Eva Castor from 1 p.m. to 1:30 p.m., teacher and girls basketball coach Ben Clark from 1:30 p.m. to 2 p.m., teacher and tennis coach Chris Hammond from 2 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., Wiscasset Police Chief Troy Cline from 2:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. and Wiscasset Fire Chief TJ Merry from 3 p.m. to 3:30 p.m..

After people get out of the tank, the Wolverines will have games to play against a pair of tough opponents.

The Wiscasset girls team will kick off the action with a game against visiting Mountain Valley High School at 5 p.m.

The Wolverines (1-5) will have a tall task in front of them if they wish to knock off the high-flying Falcons. The Class B South Falcons (2-2) are in 13th place in their division but only points away from a playoff berth.

Wiscasset's boys team (0-5) will try to get back on the winning path when they host Mountain Valley (5-1) on Saturday at 7 p.m. Mountain Valley is currently in third place in the loaded Class B South division, behind only first-place Yarmouth (6-0) and second-place Maranacook (5-0).

The games will be played at the high school field, located at 272 Gardiner Road.

The University of Maine at Augusta hosted high school cross country teams from around the region including Wiscasset at the annual mid-season race Wednesday afternoon, Sept. 23. Over one hundred boy and girl distance runners took part in contest held on a beautiful fall afternoon in Maine’s capital city.

Eva Castor, Wolverine cross-country coach, was once again pleased with her runners’ performances. “The team had a fantastic day overall,” she said. 

Fifty-five runners competed in the girls race on a wooded course that wound its way around the UMA campus. Castor said Amanda Johnson crossed the finish line in 36th place and recorded a time of 29:04. Her teammate, Amanda Marcus was close behind with a time of 30:45. She  placed 47th. Both girls have not missed a cross country race all season.

“Sam Storer, Angus Putnam, and Sam Whitney had their best times so far this season in the boy’s competition,” Castor added. “They continue to improve each race and I am excited to see what they can do in the next couple of weeks.”

Storer was the first Wolverine to cross the finish line. He was 22nd overall among a field of 73 runners with time of 21:20.

Brandon Goud was the next Wiscasset runner in placing 36th with a time of 22:34. Putnam was close behind Goud in 42nd place at 23:12, and Sam Whitney placed 59th overall at 25:35.    

The Wolverine boys were just one runner shy of possibly qualifying for a team score. Five runners are needed.

Castor will take her team to St. Dom’s next Wednesday, Sept. 29. The Wolverines then travel to Lisbon on Friday, Oct. 9. Both meets are scheduled to start at 4:15 p.m.

This year’s Mountain Valley Championship Meet is set for Oct. 16 at UMA.

The Wiscasset Middle High School girls varsity soccer team got a glimpse of its future Wednesday, Sept. 23, at home against Carrabec.

With strong play from sophomores Ari Mills, Sarah Foley, Grace Webber and Maeve Blodgett the team saw what the Wolverines could look like for the next several years.

Unfortunately for the Wolverines on Wednesday the Carrabec Cobras' future is now.

Carrabec was able to bounce in three goals over goalkeeper Blodgett to win, 3-0. Anything not over her head Blodgett was able to stop.

Wiscasset had several fast break opportunities with the speedy Webber and Foley on the outside, but Carrabec was able to turn Wiscasset away.

Carrabec was able to score first with 22 minutes remaining in the first half when a ball bounced up and over Blodgett’s outstretched fingertips. The Cobras scored in similar fashion again with 32 and 23 minutes remaining in the second half.

The loss pushed Wiscasset to 1-6 on the season and moved Carrabec to 3-3 on the season.

The Wolverines next game will be the Saturday, Sept. 26 homecoming game against Mountain Valley at 5 p.m. at Wiscasset Middle High School.

Lisa Evans and Tim Smith have been growing microgreens in their greenhouse in Roslindale, Massachusetts, since January, ever since Evans became enamored with them after attending the Hippocrates Health Institute in West Palm Beach, Florida.

Now they have a greenhouse in South Bristol as well. It was installed a couple weeks ago, in mid-September.

Evans said she decided to check out the institute after experiencing some physical issues.

“The people who attend eat a raw vegan diet,” she said. “Their philosophy is that if you eat food at its source — the seeds, the roots or the baby plants — you'll get many more nutrients. You don't need meat. You can get all your protein from plant-based sources.”

Evans said when she came back from the institute she was at least partially convinced that she'd eat a raw vegan diet forever.

“I came back with a bunch of seeds and said, 'Tim, grow these.' Tim is an amazing gardener and we have won awards for our urban garden in Boston.”

She said she now eats some meat, but has continued to eat more of a plant-based diet, more vegetables, and a lot of microgreens. “They're good for your hair, for your skin, for nutrients. And I haven't gotten any colds recently.”

Because of the high content of nutrients, Evans said many athletes and cancer patients are buying their microgreens.

“Some cancer patients have lost their appetites, and they are able to get the nutrients they need in a small amount of microgreens. I don't know if they really cure cancer, but it is helping them get a lot of needed nutrients in their diet.”

Their website, We Grow Microgreens (www.wegrowmicrogreens.com), defines microgreens: “Microgreens are tender, edible seedlings of vegetables and herbs grown to the cotyledons (seed leaves) or first true leaf stages. In comparison to their mature plant counterparts, microgreens provide approximately five times more vitamins and carotenoids.

According to Smith, microgreens have 4 to 40 times the nutrient density of mature leaves.

“They are exceptionally high in vitamin C and other vitamins, and/or antioxidents. It's an exceptional way of getting nutrients into your system. And they can be grown year-round.”

The microgreens are grown in organic soil in trays. When the time comes for harvesting them, Smith said they either sell the entire tray, or cut the greens and package them in 'clamshell' containers.

They are made available separately in small containers, and can also be purchased as a mixture of greens in larger containers as a salad in itself.

“We tell consumers that they can add a light balsamic vinegar dressing, and they'll have a simple, very nutritious salad,” Smith said.

Edible flowers are added to the containers, providing beauty to the already colorful microgreens: Pansies, French marigolds and nasturtiums.

“People love the edible flowers,” Smith said.

There is little waste in the business of growing microgreens. Smith said that once the tray of greens is harvested, they throw the soil with the residue 'compost' into larger planters, and as a result large, mature plants grow. Smith said that their compost heap is always full of surprises. “You might get some vegetables growing that you can take and plant in your garden beds.”

There are planters virtually everywhere on the deck and dock of Smith's family's summer cottage in South Bristol. The planters contain kale, peas, amaranth, cilantro, and shiso (an herb).

In addition to microgreens, the couple also grows and sells small novelty plants, including coffee plants that produce Arabica coffee beans. “They're wonderful houseplants,” Smith said.

If anyone is interested in growing their own microgreens, Smith said it's easy. “The best local source would be Johnny's Seeds in Albion. They have a wonderful catalog, and you can buy a small batch of seeds and the requisite flats, and grow microgreens on your kitchen windowsill all winter long.”

The couple participates in four farmers markets in the Boston area and their microgreens are in two grocery stores and a few restaurants. But they're excited about their new venture in South Bristol.

“We're really constrained for space in the Boston area,” Smith said. “Even though the city has promoted urban farming, the problem is finding good space to grow in the earth, or in a greenhouse. So we put a greenhouse here, where we already have land.”

Now they can grow microgreens in this area, and take them back to Boston. If there is a restaurant or chef around here who wants them, they will be happy to provide them.

“I have this amazingly beautiful house here, and I spend a lot of time here by myself, because Tim is afraid to leave the microgreens in Boston by themselves,” Evans said.

“They could get in trouble on their own,” Smith piped in.

Autumn: When pumpkins fall like leaves in the Midcoast.

When wood and aluminum and fiberglass boats are put away for the winter and pumpkin boats instead dot the Damariscotta River, it’s fall.

That's right: Summer may be over, but the Damariscotta Pumpkinfest and Regatta is about to begin.

The Twin Villages celebration of all things pumpkin (and squash) kicks off officially on Saturday, Oct. 3, when volunteer pumpkin growers drop off their monsters at Pinkham's Plantation on Biscay Road in Damariscotta to be weighed. The volunteers pumpkins are the ones that usually wind up in the water or smashed to bits over the hood of a junked used car.

At 9 a.m. on Saturday there will be a demonstration on how to build a pumpkin derby car, also at Pinkham's Plantation; then at 6:15 p.m. at Round Top Farm, there will be a “Spotlight on the Patch” concert featuring the Blake Rosso Band (there is a fee for the concert and donations are accepted).

At 10 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 4, at Pinkham's Plantation, the big pumpkins will be weighed. The Great Pumpkin Commonwealth weigh-off will officially start at 7 a.m. when pumpkins are dropped off, and the official weigh-in will begin at 10 a.m.

This year the purse for the largest pumpkin is $10,000. Last year, Readfield's Joe Gaboury set a Maine record when his prized pumpkin tipped the scales at 1,625 pounds.

Gaboury said last year that his pumpkin was adding about 38 pounds of (mostly water) weight per day — the equivalent of a 5-year-old child every day.

Following the weigh-off, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Round Top Farm, the Damariscotta River Association will host its family fun day.

The next event will be Thursday, Oct. 8 at Skidompha Library when WGME News 13 Chief Meteorologist and pumpkin grower Charlie Lopresti gives a talk during a Chats with Champions event at the library at 10 a.m.

After 4 p.m., along Main Street, will be the pumpkin deployment, when businesses received their large pumpkins to be decorated.

At 7 p.m. at Lincoln Theater on Theater Street there will be a showing of the 1979 Steve Martin film “The Jerk.”

All day Friday will feature artists painting and decorating their pumpkins in Damariscotta, Newcastle and Boothbay Harbor. At 7 p.m. on Friday at Lincoln Theater there will be a showing of “Little Shop of Horrors” and the Peterso Project will play at 8 p.m. at Schooner Landing on Main Street.

On Saturday, Oct. 10, the Central Lincoln County YMCA will host its annual Zombie Run which gives participants the chance to dodge body parts and the undead during the race along with a kids fun run at 525 Main Street. Registration will be from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. and the Zombie Run will start at 9:30 a.m. and the kids fun run begins at 10:30 a.m.

Pumpkinboat building will last all day Saturday at Pinkham's Plantation and the Boothbay Railway Village will host its 48th annual Fall Foliage Festival from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The children's story hour and crafts will go from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Saturday at Skidompha and there will be street performers from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Theater Street.

The Kids Zone will be from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Water Street and the pumpkin dessert contest will begin at 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. when the desserts are dropped off at Skidompha. At 1:15 p.m. the winner will be announced.

The official pumpkin parade will begin at 2:15 p.m. and go along Main Street with the pumpkin pie eating contest immediately to follow. Will and Doug will play at the Newcastle Publick House at 8 p.m.

On Sunday, Oct. 11, the day will begin with the pumpkin pancake breakfast at the American Legion Post on Main Street at 7 p.m., and the Fall Foliage Festival will continue at the Boothbay Railway Village from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

At 8:30 a.m. on the hill near Weatherbird, there will be the pumpkin derby and the street performers and Kids Zone will continue throughout the day.

At 2 p.m. at Round Top Farm there will be the annual pumpkin hunt for kids, then at 3:15 p.m. pumpkins will be dropped onto a pair of clunkers to the tunes of the Nikki Hunt band. The Horseshoe Crabs will play at 4 p.m. at Schooner Landing and the Lincoln Theater will again be showing Little Shop of Horrors at 7 p.m.

The big event of Columbus Day weekend will begin at 11:30 a.m. (depending on tides) on Monday, Oct. 12, in the harbor during the annual pumpkin regatta.

Following the regatta, at 1:30 p.m. there will be a showing of “ParaNorman” at the Lincoln Theater.

There will be no pumpkin cannon or catapult this year.

Handicapped, celebrity and Boothbay area golfers joined together at the Boothbay Harbor Country Club on Saturday, Sept. 26, to raise money for Special Olympics Maine.

Taking to the course were 31 celebrity golfers from as far away as Texas, many of whom have returned yearly to the event, which is now in its 25th season.

“I am seeing big changes here," said Ken Hodge, a retired winger for the Boston Bruins.

Hodge was returning for his 10th celebrity visit to the now renovated 18-hole course. He said he no longer sees fellow teammates Bobby Orr and Phil Esposito, but enjoys returning to Boothbay to participate in the Charities Classic event.

Retired Red Sox pitcher Bill “Spaceman” Lee was one of 22 finalists to compete for the $10,000 prize in the putting competition.

Before taking the 40-foot putt, Leon Blackman said he would donate the money to the cause if the ball dropped in the hole. He missed the putt. The prize was sponsored by Leroy’s Seafood. No one won the hole-in-one competition.

“I have been living out of my car for the last week,” said Lee, who had been to six charity events in the previous eight days. He hugged Yankee fan Gerry Weinberger while claiming he was also a fan of the New York club.

“I beat them 12 times," said Lee.

During the closing ceremonies, Lee auctioned off a celebrity autographed bat he had made out of Vermont maple. He said he would personally help get the signature of pitcher Luis Tiant, who was unable to attend the golf tournament; although, he warned the winner not to try to get it himself because Tiant guarded his property in southern Maine with a chained bear.

The bat sold for $250. Several other items were raffled and auctioned off to benefit the cause.

In addition to retired football and baseball greats, the acting company from “Snitches,” a police movie to be released in 2016, formed their own five-some for the event.

Course pro Chad Penman set the fleet off in golf carts to each of the 18 tees while explaining the rules of the “Straight Scramble” in which each of the five team members played the best of each shot on the hole. The first place score of 54 for the 18 holes was gained by the team captained by Dan Shea. 

In the closing ceremonies, a mock check for $40,000 was handed to a representative of Special Olympics Maine, CEO Phil Geehold.

“We need to look at people by what they can do, not by what they can’t do,” said Geehold in receiving the contribution.

Brenda Blackman was co-chairman and master of ceremonies for the event.

A crisp fall evening greeted a large crowd at Maine's Wiscasset Speedway Saturday night, Sept. 26 for the final points races of the 2015 season. Group 2 was in action with the championship title still up for grabs in the Late Model Sportsman division plus racing in the Modified and Outlaw Mini classes.

Also on the schedule was an appearance of the Napa Super Streets, which normally run with Group 1, with its championship still to be determined.

The Flex race of the program was the 3rd and final Enduro of the season. The Enduro rolled out 51 cars to take the green flag. Chad Michaud took the victory by 2 laps over Michael Moody and Keith Rankin.

The Modifieds rolled out for their 30 lap feature with Harpwell's Mark Lucas having already secured the 2015 championship, thanks to his 10 wins in 11 races. The 11 car starting field as the largest for the mods this season. However a mishap in the front of the field on the initial green flag took a handful of cars out of contention including #15 Joe Williams, #33 Ron Bryant and #7 Nick Reno.

The #85 of Jairet Harrison drove to his first career win. He was chased across the line by Allen Moeller and Richard Jordan.

The Outlaw Mini 25 lap feature was low on cautions but high on excitement. Former 2 time champ Shawn Kimball was strong in the early going, moving up from the back of the pack and taking the lead on lap 6. From there he took care of business on two restarts and drove his #20 car to his 3rd win of the 2015 season. Shane Kaherl of Jay was busy starting in the front of the pack and working to hold off challenges from several drivers. His hard work would be rewarded with his best finish of the season in 2nd. Rookie Cody Tribbet stayed out of trouble and capped off his championship season with a 3rd place finish.

It was an uncharacteristically rough night for the Late Model Sportsman division. The class came into their 35 lap feature with three drivers gunning for the division championship. The #25 Will Collins of Waldoboro came into the last race with a 8 point cushion over closest challenger Shane Clark of Winterport and 20 points over defending champ #15 Nick Hinckley of Wiscasset. The race was a rough one with several cautions bunching up and thinning out the field.

Each of the three championship contenders had their share of problems to deal with in the race, which only ratcheted up the tension. Clark was involved in a large wreck in turn 3 on the initial lap of the race. He suffered extensive front end damage and pitted several times to keep himself on the lead lap and in the fight. In the mean time, both Collins and Hinckley suffered damage to their cars in early cautions.

At one point Collins nearly went a lap down after losing the rear spoiler and deck lid off his car. Hinckley pitted a couple times with front end damage. The #20 Tracy Gordon and #04 TJ Watson battled it out early for the lead.

Watson actually took the lead from Gordon twice only to have it negated by an untimely caution. In the meantime, #87 Chuck Colby continued his recent hot streak, quickly moving up from his 16th starting position into the top 5 by lap three.

Just two laps later he would take the lead from Watson and hold it on each of five more restarts. He would pick up his class-high 3rd win of the season.

However, as of the time of the press release, the victory is held up pending an engine inspection.

The Napa Super Streets had the final points race of the evening. It had been 3 weeks since their last race and drivers were anxious to get on the track. The championship was still mathematically up for grabs but #2 Josh Bailey of Wiscasset was able to claim the title simply by taking the green flag in the 25 lap feature. Like the other races on the program, the Super Streets race was also slowed by a handful of cautions. Defending champ Adam Chadbourne of Woolwich would finally nail down his first win of 2015, holding off #5 Mark Lucas for the victory. The race would finish under caution and checkers with Bailey beating out #02 Jason Curtis of Hollis for the final spot in victory lane.

Wiscasset Speedway returns to action and concludes the season schedule Saturday, Oct. 3 at noon with its annual Fall Fury program. The show will showcase features in all eight weekly divisions (Prostock, Napa Super Streets, Thunder 4 Minis, N.E.4-cyl Pro, Late Model Sportsman, Modified, Strictly Streets, Outlaw Minis) plus an appearance of the Wicked Good Vintage Racers. Following the racing action will be a pig roast. Race teams are encouraged to bring food dishes and desserts to help celebrate the season. Following dinner will be the presentation of the 2015 driver awards including officially crowning the 2015 division champions. Pit gates will open at 8 a.m. and the grandstand gate will open at 11 a.m. Driver practice will go from 9 to 11:30 a.m. and the green flag flies at noon. For information, go to www.wiscassetspeedway.com.

OFFICIAL FINISH 9/26/15

MODIFIED (30 LAPS)
1. #85 Jairet Harrison - Freeport
2. #04 Allan Moeller - Dresden
3. #8 Richard Jordan - Kingfield
4. #7 Nick Reno - West Bath
5. #1 Adam Chadbourne - Woolwich
6. #17 Tom Young - Freeport
7. #5 Mark Lucas - Harpswell
8. #14 Jon McCarron - Palmyra
9. #33 Ron Bryant - Livemore
10. #96 Todd Ladd - Farmington
11. #15 Joe Williams - Woolwich

OUTLAW MINI (25 LAPS)
1. #20 Shawn Kimball - Augusta
2. #19 Shane Kaherl - Jay
3. #13 Cody Tribbet - Richmond
4. #81 Bryan Lancaster - Skowhegan
5. #5 Jimmy Childs - Leeds
6. #84 Mike Bolduc - Palermo
7. #61 Cole Robinson - Clinton
8. #26 Brent Roy - Vasselboro
9. #41 Shane Smith - Sidney
10. #83 Brady Romano - Livemore Falls
11. #2 Scott Trask - Richmond
12. #92 Mike Wilson - Chelsea
DQ #19x Zach Audet
DQ #18x Tim Collins

LATE MODEL SPORTSMAN (35 LAPS)
note : unofficial finish pending engine inspection
1. #87 Chuck Colby - Wiscasset
2. #04 TJ Watson - Cundys Harbor
3. #17 Chris Thorne - Sidney
4. #33 Josh St Clair - Liberty
5. #26 Andrew McLaughlin - Harrington
6. #20 Tracy Gordon - Strong
7. #25 Will Collins - Waldoboro
8. #51 Puncin St Clair - Liberty
9. #14 Dave St Clair - Liberty
10. #3 Richard Jordan - Kingfield
11. #15 Nick Hinckley - Wiscasset
12. #5x Bryan Robbins - Montville
13. #21 Shane Clark - Winterport
14. #7 Jay Bailey - Wiscasset
15. #13 Nate Tribbet - Richmond
16. #11 Cody Verrill - Wiscasset
17. #34 Tyler Robbins - Montville
18. #1 Mark Lucas - Harpswell

NAPA SUPER STREETS (25 LAPS)
1. #1 Adam Chadbourne - Woolwich
2. #5 Mark Lucas - Harpsell
3. #2 Josh Bailey - Wiscasset
4. #02 Jason Curtis - Hollis
5. #32 Tasha Dyer - Arrowsic
6. #06 Zac Poland - Woolwich
7. #85 Kenny Harrison - Pownal
8. #13 Dave Doherty - Greene
9. #54 Neil Evans Jr - Brunswick
10. #88 Jamie Norton - Farmingdale
11. #23 Brandon Sprague - Edgecomb
12. #38 Dan Trask - Chelsea
13. #25 Brad Bellows - China

ENDURO (100 LAPS)
1 #99 Chad Michaud
2. #68 Michael Moody
3. #30 Horace Crawford
4. #87 Jeff Reed
5. #23 Mike Carlton
6. #1 Tim Johnson
7. #55 Mike Marshall
8. #156 Jason Cyr
9. #4 Donald Brown
10. #29 Chris King
11. #27 David Errington
12. #22 Scott Eck
13. #56 David Cook
14. #69 Merrill Chapman
15. #77x Vern Hogkins Jr
16. #27 Richard Clark
17. #8 Ron Whitcomb
18. #31 Bryan Lancaster.
19. #98 Kamren Knowles
20. #55x Mike Snyder
21. #23 Jake Allen
22. #42 Frank Brown
23 #14 Tyler Merrill
24. #03 Maurice Young
25. #7 Timothy Gosch
26. #08 Scott Merrill
27. #51  Scott Mason
28. #54 John Clark
29. #01 Cody Verrill
30. #83 Michael Duffy
31. #12 Don Nashawaty
32. #3 David Thompson
33. #77 Griffin Laney
34. #79x Stephen Sylvester
35. #0N0 Bobby Clark
36. #21 Corey Rines
37. #42x Travis Knight
38. #155 Billy McIntire
39 .#95 Andrew Holmes
40. #55me Brad Clement
41. #6 Brianna Bodman
42. #70 Aaron Sevigny
43. #20 Andrew Glynn
44. #53 Destiny McKenzie
45. #00 Bobber Tibbetts
DQ #00 Horace Crawford

Note: 5 additional drivers chose not to use transponders and were therefore not scored

The Wiscasset Middle High School varsity boys soccer game that was scheduled for Friday, Oct. 2, will now be played on Thursday, Oct. 1.

The girls varsity soccer game will be played first on Thursday, Oct. 1, starting at 3 p.m. with the boys varsity soccer game to begin 10 minutes after the conclusion of the girls game.

The bus will leave Wiscasset Middle High School at 1 p.m.

Wiscasset’s Angus Putnam ran his fastest race of the season at a cross country meet hosted by St. Dom’s Academy Tuesday afternoon in Auburn.

Wolverine Coach Eva Castor said Putnam placed 19th among a field of 32 high school runners. His time of 22:08 shaved nearly a minute off his personal best for the season. Putnam was the Wolverines’ lone entry in the boy’s 5k run.

In the girl's race, Wiscasset’s Amanda Johnson placed 16th, recording a time of 29:16. Her teammate, Amanda Marcus, finished 24th with a time of 31:45.

Castor said both girls just missed finishing with their best times of the season. Twenty-seven girls competed.

Wiscasset Middle High School has no home cross country meets this season. The Wolverines will travel to Lisbon for a meet on Oct. 9. The race is scheduled to begin at 4:15 p.m. The Mountain Valley Conference Championship Meet is set for Oct. 16 at the University of Maine Augusta. A 3 p.m. start is scheduled.

It was Fall Fury at Wiscasset Speedway once again on Saturday, bringing a close to the 2015 Wiscasset racing season. Fans lined the grandstand to watch a presentation of 10 feature races, including all eight divisions of regular season racing. Also making an appearance were the two classes of Wicked Good Vintage Racers. Wiscasset Speedway celebrated the season’s end with driver awards, presentations, and a pig roast for friends, drivers, their families, fans, and Speedway staff.

Starting off the racing action were the two divisions of the Wicked Good Vintage Racers. In the first division, Late Models and Modified pitted their skills against each other and raced to the finish. By lap six, the #13 of Jody Lewis had taken the lead, and did not relinquish it. The #24 of Zac Poland and the #420 of Keith Smalley battled for second place throughout the race. Poland edged out Smalley during lap fifteen of the twenty lap feature. Lewis sped under the checkered in first place. Poland took second. Rounding out the top three was Smalley in third.

The second division of the Wicked Good Racers were the Outlaw class competing in a twenty lap event. Starting at the pole was the #64 of Steve Reny. Reny and the #71 of Arthur Hannaford fought for the lead. In what was a heartbreaker for Reny, Hannaford took the lead during the last lap when Reny’s car slowed on the track, appearing to suffer a mechanical issue. The battle for third was between the #73 of Mark Theranault and the #1 of Scott Tucker. During lap eighteen, Theranault secured third, and despite Tucker’s best efforts, he slid to forth. Hannaford took the win, Reny finished in second and Theranault placed third.

Regular Wiscasset Speedway racing divisions then hit the track. Making the first appearance in a twenty-five lap feature were the Napa Super Streets. Starting at the pole was the #32 of Tasha Dyer. Dyer exhibited the skills needed to secure a win in the division, and sped her way to victory despite serious challenges from the #11 of Dalton Gagne and the #5 of Mark Lucas. Lucas and Gagne both vied for the lead, but when those attempts eluded them, they fought for second. During lap seventeen Lucas made a pass on the inside of the back stretch to snatch second place from Gagne. Gagne was later failed to pass post-race inspection, bringing the #2 of Josh Bailey to third place. Dyer took the win from the boys. Lucas placed second. Bailey finished in third.

It was a slow pace for the Outlaw Mini twenty-five lap feature. Spin-outs and accidents slowed the action on the track for the first fifteen laps of this event, and the race ended under a yellow and checkered. Making an appearance in the Mini division this week was New England Four Cylinder Prostock racer, Jacob Hendsbee. Hendsbee demonstrated that his talents translated well to the Outlaw Mini class. 

Hendsbee quickly moved from his fourth place start to the lead by lap seven in his #91. The #92 of Mike Wilson was a contender in the top three, but a ride off the turn three corner during lap nine ended his hopes of a top five finish. The #19 of Shane Kaherl started at the pole. Kaherl and the #5 of Jimmy Childs made contact during lap nine, taking Kaherl out of competition. The #13 of Cody Tribbet filled the void in the top three, along with the #84 of Mike Bolduc. Bolduc spun on the track during the final lap however, and the #20 of Shawn Kimball took third place. Tribbet placed second. Taking the win was Hendsbee.

A thirty lap Late Model Sportsman feature was action packed and kept fans on the edge of their seats til the finish. Going head-to-head for the win throughout the race were the #04 of TJ Watson and the #87 of Chuck Colby. Colby and Watson’s battle for the lead kept racing action tense. Watson had the lead after the #4 of Ben Erskine spun on the opening lap. Second was held by Colby. Third place was held by Nick Hinkley of the #15, who passed the #25 of Will Collins during lap three. Hinkley patiently waited for either Watson or Colby to make a mistake. However, the pair skillfully avoided error, and instead raced door-to-door for nearly the entire race. Colby predominantly held the outside track, and although he tried at times to get under Watson, Watson effectively held him off. A determined Watson and an equally driven Colby sped across the finish line with only 8/100ths of second between them. The narrow victory was secured by Watson. Colby settled for second and Hinkley took third.

A twenty-five lap New England Four Cylinder Prostock race demonstrated the skills of the top drivers in the class. An early leader in the race was the #0 of Alex Waltz. Waltz dominated until lap twelve, when an unfortunate spin took him out of contention for a top three win. The #98 of Kamren Knowles and the #27 of Jacob Hendsbee were quickly at the front of the pack behind Waltz, both eager for a win. Knowles and Hendsbee made contact during lap nine, sending both into spins, and both were sent to the back of the pack. Demonstrating the skills that made both point leaders in the division, the duo made their way skillfully through the field and back into contention for the win by lap fourteen. The #38 of Ryan Hayes gave both a battle for the top three honors. However Hayes slid to third as Knowles and Hendsbee took first and second. Knowles, point champion in the division, took first. Hendsbee placed second and Hayes finished in third.

A twenty-five lap Strictly Street event sped by quickly after two early cautions were out of the way. Some new faces appeared in the top three of this feature, but those new faces had to contend with point champ of the division, Kyle Hewins. The #51 of Hewins started in ninth, but by lap three, Hewins had worked his way into the top three. The #82 of Matt Dow started in fourth and took the lead early in the race. Drew Morse of the #39 also quickly entered the top three by lap five. The laps ticked off as the trio put on a show in this close quarter race. Hewins was in the lead by lap five. Dow was in second. Third was occupied by Morse. Heavy competition marked the race, but a masterful Hewins was able to defend the lead, showing the gathered fans the skills that made him a season winner. Hewins took the checkered, Dow placed second and in third was Morse.

Starting at the pole was veteran track champion and multi-time winner of previous point Prostock championships at Wiscasset Speedway, Scott Chubbuck of the #15X. Chubbuck quickly showed the crowd how to win a thirty lap feature event. Chubbuck did have his hands full with hard charger, Nate Tribbet, whom had started second from the back. Chubbuck also had to contend with James Osmond of the #05 and the #32 of Mike Orr. Orr started in second but slid behind during lap sixteen, ending a top three finish for him. Osmond and Tribbet filled the void left by Orr when Orr’s car slowed on the track. Osmond held second until lap twenty-six. Tribbet then rallied, and passed Osmond on the outside. Tribbet was unable to catch race leader Chubbuck, and took second. Osmond finished in third. Chubbuck took the win.

A twenty lap Thunder Four Mini feature was quick and action-packed. When the green flag flew, there was a mad dash as all 11 Thunders rushed for the lead. There were numerous lead changes, but when the dust cleared, the cream had risen to the top. The #4J of Joe Katula had taken the lead. The #51 of Kyle Hewins had advanced to second. Noah Haggett, cruising in his new whip, was in third. During lap eight, Haggett went into a spin, and a caution was called. On the restart, Katula was too slow off the start and lost his lead to Hewins. The #04 of Michael Moody was watching in his rear view mirror as tenth place starter, Jeff Minchin Jr, was advancing up the track. Moody soon had his hands full as Minchin battled him for his third place position. Minchin won the fight and finished in third. Although Katula skillfully tried to take the win, Hewins held him off, and secured the first place finish. Katula had to be satisfied with second.

A twenty-five lap Modified feature concluded the racing action for the evening. Putting on a show was the #04 of Allen Moeller and the #1 of Adam Chadbourne. Chadbourne and Moeller raced for the lead off the start. Chadbourne overtook Moeller and secured first. However, moving up from the back, was point champion and 11-time season winner in the division, Mark Lucas of the #5. Lucas was able to overtake Moeller, but found himself with his hands full trying to pass Chadbourne. Chadbourne and Lucas raced door-to-door. Lucas took the lead during lap six, going over the line just 8/1000ths of a second ahead. Lucas was able to slip in ahead of Chadbourne several laps later. However, Chadbourne put up a fight, and showed the gathered fans that Lucas would not cruise to an easy victory. Lucas did take the win, but Chadbourne was hot on his heels. Moeller finished in third.

Post-race the drivers, families, staff, and some fans all gathered to celebrate the season end with a pig roast while awards were distributed. A full list of award winners can be found on the homepage at www.wiscassetspeedway.com.

Three “Promoters Awards” were given this year. Track promoter Ken Minott said, “The Promoters Award is given to staff members, volunteers and drivers from Wiscasset Speedway who have gone above and beyond the call of duty and have helped make the Speedway an even better place.”

This year’s awards went to Penny Shorette, the Kid’s Club volunteer who did so much for the children of the fans of Wiscasset Speedway. The second Promoters Award went to James Bailey, the tire barn manager at the track. Bailey went above and beyond and pitched in where ever a helping hand was needed. The third Promoters Award went to driver Scott Chubbuck. Chubbuck has worked to make Wiscasset Speedway a better place. Chubbuck could often be found lending a hand to other drivers or giving advice when asked for.

This year two “Team Spirit Awards” were presented to the teams who raced each week with enthusiasm for the sport and helped each other out throughout the year, a dedication to racing, and who were good representatives of the sport. This year’s awards went to the St. Clair racing family, Josh, Ryan, Puncin, and Dave St. Clair. The second Team Spirit award went to the racing family of Kimberly Knight. 

This year’s Integrity Award was presented to John Shorey, a New England Four Cylinder Prostock Driver who also helps out behind the scenes at Wiscasset Speedway. The Integrity award was given to the driver that embodies qualities that an ideal driver has.  

The Pit Crew of the Year award went to the crew of James Osmond. Osmond was a Prostock driver this year. Osmond’s crew, and Osmond himself, could often be found lending a hand to others. Osmond’s crew helped Osmond overcame obstacles to Osmond’s success throughout the racing season. 

This year’s Four Season Synthetic Drivers of the Month were Ben Erskine, Michael Harrison, Josh Bailey, Mark Lucas, and September was awarded to Leandra Martin. From this pool of drivers, a Four Season Synthetic Driver of the Year was selected. This year’s recipient was Napa Super Street driver Josh Bailey. Bailey was also point champion of his Napa Super Street division.

Point champs in each division were recognized when awards were passed out. This years’ point champion in the Modified division was Mark Lucas. Lucas dominated the division with eleven season wins, losing just one race to Nick Reno of the #7. Lucas said, “This was the best season I ever had. Raced two divisions, then the Late Model. I had success in the Napa Super Streets and the Modified. This is the most success I’ve had since I started racing. I want to thank my crew, because without them I wouldn’t be here. I want to thank Lonnie’s Hydraulics, Lucas Auto, and Mark Ramsey, Dallas Staples Excavation, Fishing Vessel Mamiluem, Rick’s Masonry and Roofing, Jerry Merrill Carpentry, DAB Used Auto Sales, Casco Bay Marine, and Ken and Roxy Farley. My plan was to run Late Model next season, but I’m not sure. To my fans, look for me next year, I’ll be here somewhere with a big #5!”

Josh Bailey of the #2 was point champion in the Napa Super Street division. The #1 of Adam Chadbourne put up a good fight, and finished just twenty-four points below Bailey. Bailey had a solid performance throughout the entire season, often finishing in the top five in his division. Bailey said, “This season was pretty good. We had a few low points, but all in all was a good season and we can’t complain. I want to thank my sponsors, Galley Restaurant, Possibility Salon, my Uncle Dave and Aunt Debbie, Bath and Wiscasset Napa, and Maguire Plumbing. I want to thank my crew: Chuck, Zac, Dave, Cody, and everyone that helped out. I want to thank my mom for bringing my kids every week and for supporting me. Next year we will do the same thing, and stay with Super Street. Thanks to my fans for all their support and see you next year!”

Thunder Four point champion was Leandra Martin. Martin goes down in Wiscasset Speedway history as the first woman racing head-to-head with the men to win a point championship at Wiscasset Speedway. Martin deserved it with her consistent performance throughout the season, driving her #31 car every week without fail, and with weekly good results. Martin finished an astounding seventy-eight points ahead of Michael Harrison, her closest competitor. Martin said, “It was a successful season. We got better as the season went on. We were patient. I’m patient. If I start in the back, I just wait until everyone fights their way through. We also had a lot of good luck. Next season I’m going to stick with the same class. I want to thank my grandfather, my Uncle Casey, Nate Tribbet, and Cody Tribbet. I also want to thank my sponsor, Main Street Fuel.”

Outlaw Mini driver, #13 Cody Tribbet was this year’s point champion. Tribbet was a solid contender throughout the season, and his efforts paid off. Tribbet held off all competitors, finishing fifty-eight points above Jimmy Childs, who held second in points in the division. Tribbet said, “This season was pretty good. We were very consistent, and we had a top three car a lot. It was definitely a top five car every week. We stayed out of the wrecks. I want to thank my Uncle Casey, my grandfather, my brother (Nate), K and G Auto Sales, and Main Street Fuel for making it possible. Next year it will be Outlaw Mini’s again.”

Kyle Hewins, a new driver this year at Wiscasset Speedway, was the Strictly Street champion for 2015. Dan Brown of the #83 was close on his heels, only sixteen points shy of the season champ. Hewins said, “We’ve had a real good season. We got three wins down here: two season wins and the Top Gun Shootout. We have had a lot of fun down here. We really appreciate Vanessa and Richard Jordan, and what they do. They make us feel like we are right at home, even though it is our first year down here. We have enjoyed it and had a pretty good year. I’ve got to thank my crew mainly, they helped me through it all: Kenny Wills, Todd Macomber, Dustin Salle, Cary Edmunds, Scott Damon, my brother, my dad, just everyone who has helped me out. It’s a lot of time and work in the garage, and I want to thank my girlfriend and son for putting up with it. I want to thank all my sponsors, without them I wouldn’t be able to do this. Most of I want to thank Scott Brewer, the car owner. He gets the money and helps pay for everything. If it weren’t for him I wouldn’t be able to race at this level. I am pretty sure next year we are going to run here mostly, but we are not going to run a full season at any track. We are going to pick and choose our races, and spend more time with our families.”

This year’s Late Model champ was Waldoboro’s Will Collins. Collins and Shane Clark went down to the wire for this season’s point championship. Clark came in a close second to Collins’ twenty point lead. Collins said, “It was a pretty good year. We sort of fell off a little bit towards the end, but a lot of it was just bad luck. All the guys worked real hard to keep it together for me this season. I want to thank dad, MG, Randy, Andy, Guy, Scott, and Ryan. All those guys really won it for me. I also want to thank my sponsor Breakwater Design and Build. Next year will be the same, running Late Model and trying to defend it. A big thank-you to all my fans out there.”

For the second year in a row, Kamren Knowles, the 15-year-old from West Gardiner, won point championship in the New England Four Cylinder Prostock division. Forty points separated Knowles from his closest competitor, Jacob Hendsbee. Knowles said, “I want to thank my mom and dad, Chad Moody, Pork, Uncle Moe, Dean, and A C Towing, and everyone that helps out. I’m not sure what my plans are for next season yet. I want to thank all my fans for coming.”

Only a few points separated Andy Saunders from point leader, Jeff Burgess, heading into the last Prostock point race of the season. Saunders was able to edge out Burgess by only twelve points. It was a hard fought battle and Saunders emerged victorious, as the underdog, and secured the championship for the 2015 season. Saunders said, “My season was very solid. I am disappointed over my lack of wins, but outside of that, I’m pretty happy. It is still too early to tell what my plans are for next season. Right now we are planning on returning back here with the Prostocks. I want my fans to keep on coming and to keep on cheering!”

Wiscasset Speedway will be back in action for the 2016 season in April. Keep your eye on the website for news at www.wiscassetspeedway.com. Like us on Facebook at Wiscasset Speedway, and receive racing news throughout the winter months. If you want memories of the 2015 racing season, look up some video footage of the races on YouTube. Track videographer, Brandon Simmons, has posted plenty of racing action on YouTube, which can be found simply by searching “Wiscasset Speedway.” Also available are pictures from not only this season, but from previous seasons’ as well. Head to Peter Taylor’s (the track photographer) website: www.petespicks.smugmug.com.

Although they weren't able to score on Mt. Abram, the Wiscasset Middle High School boys varsity soccer team made sure the Roadrunners weren't able to score on them, either.

The Wolverines (0-7-1) blanked Mt. Abram (3-5-1) on Tuesday, Sept. 29, in Salem to notch a tie for the first time this season.

The tie drops the Wolverines down to 13th place in Class C south. To make the playoffs, Wiscasset will have to leapfrog 12th-ranked Winthrop (1-7-2), 11th-ranked Traip Academy (2-7) and Mt. Abram.

The Wolverines played St. Dom's at home on Tuesday, Oct. 6.

Girls fall to Roadrunners, Oak Hill

The Wiscasset Middle High School girls varsity soccer team was unable to muster much offense and fell, 4-1, against Mt. Abram (3-5-2) Tuesday, Sept. 29.

The Wolverines didn't have much more luck with Oak Hill (6-4 in Class B South) on Thursday, Oct. 1, as they were defeated 3-1.

The pair of losses dropped the Wolverines to 1-9 on the season and down to 15th in the Class C south standings.

If Joe Hoyt of Edgecomb hadn't broken his leg playing basketball at CLC YMCA in Damariscotta in late September, he thinks he probably would have run in the Y's Zombie Run on Oct. 10.

Instead, he was standing next to the course in his cast Saturday, volunteering his help at one of the event's features: a new addition this year, several hanging strips with a florescent orange coating that caught on runners' clothes, as planned.

The orange comes off, Hoyt said.

On the other side of the field, Bristol's Heidi Kelsey and her golden doodle Molly were waiting for three of Kelsey's children to run by. Daughter Emily Kelsey chose to run as a zombie; her brothers Lucas and Brandon chose to run as humans.

The human entrants wore flags at their sides for the zombies to try to take. All flags taken meant the human entrant was considered “dead” but could continue the race. The humans were supposed to get a one-minute head start, but several observers, many laughing, noted the zombies were released at just over half a minute after the humans were.

Joe Clark, the Y's senior programs director, said it was hard to make out the timer.

The morning of the race brought sun and a persistent breeze that later blew several sheets of event paperwork around the grounds near the starting line.

Lissette Griffin of Damariscotta went around picking them up, and developed a system of stepping on a sheet to keep it from blowing away as she stooped to grab it.

Griffin was not a volunteer, but figured she would help gather the papers while waiting for her daughter Tita, 9, to take part in the kids' fun run portion of the event.

Inside the Y earlier, Paul Leeman IV, 7, was out of the wind and in a chair, getting zombie features painted onto his face by event volunteer and Y employee Amanda Gray.

Leeman, of Round Pond, knew he wanted to run as a zombie. “He's been talking about it for weeks,” his father Paul Leeman III said.

Among Saturday's adults running as humans were two New York (N.Y.) Public Library employees, Emily Nelson of Pasadena, California and her co-worker in human resources, Corinne Case of Brooklyn, N.Y.

Case is a pleasure runner; Nelson, whose family has a home in Pemaquid, does not run. She decided she would run in the event as another way to enjoy the local Pumpkinfest celebration.

The Zombie Run is not an official Pumpkinfest event; however, Clark serves on the Pumpkinfest Committee and times the run to coincide with Pumpkinfest.

Nelson had planned to tuck in her flags to keep them out of the zombie runners' reach. But she heard that was against the rules.

Anyone showing up Saturday would have had a hard time missing a pair of large neon green signs on the back of Pande Stevens' Dodge Dakota vehicle. One read: “GO SUSAN (You're) THE BEST!”

The other said “YOUR FANS” and had Stevens' initials and the names he added of other friends of runner Susan Hilton of Newcastle.

“I adore him,” Hilton said when asked about the support the Damariscotta man showed in making and displaying the signs. “It’s nice to have fans.”

Hilton went on to complete the race, albeit flagless. “I was dead in the first two minutes.”

In results that Clark provided, Matthew Young finished first among “zombie” runners and J.C. Bartholemew won among the “human” entrants. Awards in the kids’ fun run that followed were decided by costumes. Amelia Starbird took third, Emmaline Flewelling, second; and Aidan Jacobs, first place.

The 5k run had more than 80 participants; the one-mile kids’ fun run, more than 30, Clark said. The event benefited youth scholarships at the Y, Clark said.

A large crowd meant large, repeated cheers going up in the vicinity of Damariscotta’s Elm Street on Sunday morning, Oct. 11 for heat after heat of the Pumpkin Derby.

The third annual event, part of the Damariscotta Pumpkinfest & Regatta, had light moments when alleged overweight pumpkin entries were smashed by smiling officials; and exciting ones as entrants progressed to semi-final and final rounds.

In results provided by event volunteer Beth Morris, Amelia Rice won the youth category; Chris and Dylan Hooper, the teen category; and Peter McKinley was both the winning adult and overall champ.

A brief video provides a sampling of the action; see more photos from the derby and other Pumpkinfest events in our photo gallery.

The leaves are finally turning and the nights are getting cold—we even had to scrape the frost off the car windows last week — so we know that snow is coming sooner or later. The birds are way ahead of us, of course. The hummingbirds and ospreys left weeks ago, as did most of the warblers except the hardy yellow-rumped warblers that bless us with their abundance at this time of year. Most of the plovers and sandpipers have already passed through.

Many of these birds may not be here with us now, but we have been enjoying virtually staying with some of them through the marvels of satellite tracking projects. We wish we had some results of projects involving birds tagged here in Maine; in the meantime we have seen some very cool maps from birds tagged in other areas, including of some species that occur here in Maine. Broad-winged hawks are one of our most common summer nesting hawk species.

They are roughly crow-sized, with a short black-and-white banded tail. They can often be heard giving their high, whistled “pit-seee” call as they soar over the forest on a warm, summer morning. Broad-winged hawks have a widespread breeding range that extends from across southern Canada south through the eastern U.S. to the Gulf Coast. Colleague Erin Bayne in Alberta worked with the Smithsonian Migratory Connectivity Project this summer to affix satellite tags to three broad-winged hawks in central Alberta.

It has been fun to watch the routes of these hawks through the Migratory Connectivity Project’s online maps (http://www.migratoryconnectivityproject.org/livetracks) as they made their way south through the central U.S. to the Texas coast and joined the famous “river of raptors” streaming into Mexico.

In fact, only a few days ago the three birds moved through that famous raptor concentration point of Veracruz, Mexico, presumably along with tens of thousands of other hawks. It is easy to imagine the delighted birders and dedicated hawk counters enjoying the spectacle from one of the wonderful observation areas that are now available in and near Veracruz.

Another species that has been tracked this season with satellite tags are black-bellied plovers. Birders here in Maine have still been finding a few black-bellied plovers around, and the occasional bird will stay into early winter. But for most black-bellied plovers, Maine is a stopover location during a longer migration. Black-bellied plovers nest in the Arctic and winter from the southern U.S. south to South America. Birds tagged this summer at Colville River, Alaska, have been making their way south this fall through western Canada and then to the interior of the U.S. toward the Gulf Coast or Mexico’s Pacific Coast. One is already in Peru! You can also follow these birds at the Migratory Connectivity Project website.

The Canadian Wildlife Service has also been tracking black-bellied plovers; these were tagged at a Canadian High Arctic breeding site this summer (their routes can be seen at the website http://www.seaturtle.org/tracking). These black-bellied plovers have migrated south using a variety of routes, some of which have been closer to Maine. Several birds passed through the northeastern U.S. and are now in the Caribbean while two struck out over open ocean from Newfoundland.

One of these had made it to Brazil but, according to the map when we last checked it, the other was still several hundred miles offshore from the South American mainland. We sure hope it makes it!

Brandon Goud placed fourth in a field of 32 high school runners in a cross country meet hosted by Lisbon High School Oct. 9. The race course was 3.1 miles and runners from St. Doms and Boothbay Region High School also competed

The weather was cold, windy and wet for the race but Goud’s finishing time of 18:18 was his best of the season according to Wolverine Coach Eva Castor.

In the girls’ race, Coach Castor said Amanda Johnson came in 15th place at 27:54 and Amanda Marcus was 18th with a time of 29:27.

“All three runners did an amazing job,” Coach Castor said adding Goud shaved 47 seconds from his best time of the season. The girls each reduced their finishing times by over a minute.

This Friday, Oct 16, is the Mountain Valley Conference Championship meet to be hosted by the University of Maine at Augusta. Coach Castor said Goud and Sam Storer have a soccer game on that day and won’t be running for the Wolverines. The Regional meet is set for Oct. 24.

Late summer and early fall seemed unusually warm and dry to me. Experience, as a well documented “fall lover,” tells me that this is not a good combination for much color in the trees, which is another nostalgic favorite of mine.

But, so far, it seems my past recollections are incorrect — imagine! This fall is turning up some dandy color, in sort of fits and starts, as it were.

Autumn color along the shore has always seemed elusive around here, for me at least. There’s something about the proximity to the ocean and lack of trees that produce leafy fall displays.

That could be it. There are not many brilliant maples on the water's edge. And the pines, spruce and hemlock don't often change color, except at our house, where they turn brown.

Tree color can be a surprise. I have always had favorite spots. Appleton Ridge, for example, can be spectacular. But, locally, it is often a tree alone, not a hillside that lights up.

There are some great swamp maples off Beath Road, down in the hollow across from where the old spring used to be. Remember filling saved milk jugs? And along the eastern side of the marsh at the “big dip” on the way to East Boothbay. There’s pretty color lining the road up to the old Giles farm property. Down in back of Corinne McIntyre's place at Ocean Point can be nice too.

The batch of color I enjoy most though, comes later, when the oaks stir up the yellows. That’s in November, generally. When the sun hits those golden leaves they glow. Back in the old film days, especially with black and white (and a filter here and there) those trees could be a real thrill in just the right light.

If you get out and poke around a little, I'm sure you will find some interesting color. Don't be shy about sharing your favorite spots with me — I'd be grateful.

Andy McEvoy, director of Hidden Valley Nature Center, happily takes possession of a new (slightly used) Polaris Ranger. The Ranger is one of the most heavily used pieces of equipment as McEvoy and volunteers work to keep the 25 miles of trails and four overnight cabins in shape for visitors.

“We now get about 7,000 visits each year, yet most people never make it to the more distant reaches of the 1,000 acres we manage. HVNC is a huge resource in many ways. The Ranger greatly simplifies getting people, tools, firewood, and supplies to where they need to go,” explained McEvoy about the need for the new vehicle.

The Ranger also comes equipped with tracks that can replace the wheels making the Ranger a real four season workhorse. McEvoy said, “We spend a great deal of time grooming our trails for skiing. Having a Ranger with tracks means the trails will be better than ever.” 

The Ranger was made possible by a generous grant by The Quimby Family Foundation.

“We are very appreciative of the support The Quimby Family Foundation has provided. They have been instrumental in building our capacity with major support for our new buildings last year and a grant for needed equipment this year,” said McEvoy.

Hidden Valley Nature Center, located in Jefferson, is a non-profit education and recreation center hosting many diverse opportunities to explore the outdoors and a range of low-impact, sustainable forestry projects. It is dedicated to providing educational and recreational opportunities to the community throughout the year. FMI: www.hvnc.org, 207-200-8840, or info@hvnc.org.

The Kennebec Estuary Land Trust (KELT) is dedicated to the protection of the land, water, and wildlife of the Kennebec Estuary region. With ten preserves open year-round dawn until dusk for the public's enjoyment, the land trust is committed to providing access to these public lands for low-impact and traditional recreation including hunting, where appropriate.

Hunting is allowed at eight preserves: Thorne Head, Sewall Woods, Lilly Pond Community Forest and Whiskeag Creek Preserves in Bath; Higgins Mountain, Morse Pond, Weber Kelly Preserves in Georgetown; and Bonyun Preserve on Westport Island. Hunting is not permitted on Green Point Preserve in West Bath and Merrymeeting Fields Preserve in Woolwich due to restrictions placed by the donor.

KELT would like to remind both hikers and hunters to be cautious during the 2015 hunting season. When hiking on KELT trails or elsewhere during hunting season, wear visible orange clothing and exercise caution. As always, the KELT properties that allow dogs require the animals to be on leash at all times.

Hikers should note that according to Maine Law, hunting on Sunday is not permitted; however brightly colored clothing is still encouraged.

Hunters are asked to notify the land trust before hunting on a land trust property and to use extra caution while on KELT properties as other non-hunters are likely present. KELT requests that hunters do not hunt along the trails. Please be aware that families are accustomed to hiking year-round.

Deer stands are by permission only and only as allowed by state law. Stands must be away from trails and marked with hunter’s name, address and phone number. No metal can be put in trees, and cutting of trees or brush is not permitted. Further information on hunting rules is available by contacting each city or town for local regulations and the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife agency at www.maine.gov/ifw.

From butternut squash bowling and the scarecrow relay race, to the pumpkin pie contest and prizes galore, the second annual Great Pumpkin Hunt at Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens promises to be fun for the whole family this weekend.

Come to the Gardens from 1-3:30 p.m. this Saturday, Oct. 24, for a fall day that is packed with games, contests, activities and prizes!

Admission will be free during this event and donations to the Boothbay Region Food Pantry will be gratefully accepted.

Kids can hunt for the golden pumpkins during the hunt itself, and the lucky finders will win gift certificates to purchase their family’s Thanksgiving meal. Prizes will be given to kids for completing games, and to families for having the best carved pumpkin during the pumpkin carving contest or the tastiest pumpkin pie for the pumpkin pie contest.

To add to the festivities, there will be bluegrass music with Chris Moore, Chris Dombrowski and Ted Demille. In addition, the Gardens is welcoming back Sweet & Salty Kettle Korn, who will be on site selling their tasty treats. The Gardens Gift Shop will also be having a special storewide end of season sale, with everything in the gift shop 20 percent off the regular price.

Activities will start promptly at 1 p.m., so please check in at the table on the Great Lawn when you arrive. Kids are even invited to take a pumpkin home with them when they leave! If there is bad weather, the rain date is Sunday, Oct. 25.

Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization, opened to the public in 2007 and rapidly became a much-appreciated attraction and educational resource for all ages in all seasons. It’s one of a very few attractions in Maine to receive the AAA’s “Gem” distinction and in 2013 was ranked the #1 public garden by TripAdvisor. The number of visitors has increased each year, with roughly 105,000 welcomed in 2014.

The Gardens is located at 132 Botanical Gardens Drive, off Barters Island Road, just over a mile from Route 27 and the Boothbay common. For more information and directions, call 207-633-8000, or visit www.mainegardens.org.

It's hard to quantify pumpkin destruction, but here goes:

Three cameras, one waterproof housing, two clunkers, one pool, hundreds of people, 180 feet, more than a ton of pumpkins and more than two hours of footage.

All of that leads to about a minute's worth of pumpkin destruction set to a classical soundtrack.

Watch and relive the majesty of pumpkins falling from a 180-foot crane on Sunday, Oct. 11, because Damariscotta’s Pumpkinfest and Regatta happen but once a year.

For more fall events in Midcoast Maine, click here.

The Sheepscot Valley Conservation Association is holding another Stewardship Day at the Trout Brook Preserve in Alna on Friday, Oct. 30, from 1 to 3 p.m. Volunteers will be cutting trees and shrubs, and removing invasive plants in an area that was once pasture land. Volunteers will learn about the components of wildlife habitat, mast crops, and building brush piles as we work to improve the habitat on this 19-acre parcel.

Please RSVP to Lynne Flaccus, programs manager at SVCA (207-586-5616 or lynne@sheepscot.org) so we have plenty of materials, information and tools available. Come with questions and willingness to pitch in; meet at the Trout Brook Kiosk on Rte. 218 in Alna (just north of the Alna Store) at 1 p.m. and we will head out from there.

On a night designed to celebrate its seniors, both Wiscasset Middle High School soccer teams also celebrated wins.

Both the boys and girls teams capped their seasons with wins on senior night, Monday, Oct. 19.

In the boys game, senior Brycson Grover finished his four-year Wiscasset soccer career by knocking home a goal against Oak Hill less than a minute into the game.

Grover, who along with Sam Storer, Chayse Reed and Max Webber, make up the seniors on the team, was assisted on the goal by junior Brandon Goud.

Junior Kevin Lynch would add to Wiscasset's lead by scoring with 29 minutes left in the first half with another assist from Goud.

Junior Nate Woodman would end the scoring with a pair of goals — one with 23 minutes remaining in the first half and another with 34 minutes to go in the game — to give Wiscasset a 4-0 lead. Woodman's goals were assisted by Reed and junior Russell Marr, respectively.

The loss ended Wiscasset's season with a record of 4-9-1. The Wolverines ended the season on a hot streak, however, as they went 2-2 in their final four games.

But the playoffs would elude Wiscasset, which finished 12th in the 10-team Class C South playoff format. For Oak Hill, the loss dropped the Raiders to 0-12-2 in Class B South.

In the girls game that followed, the Wolverines (3-11) and Boothbay Region Seahawks (3-10-1) ended about as close as the two rivals could.

Although Wiscasset won the battle, 1-0, Boothbay Region won the war, as the Lady Seahawks find themselves with the final Class C South playoff spot, mere percentage points ahead of Wiscasset.

But on a night dedicated to lone senior Colleen Hendricks, the Wolverines were able to score the only goal via a Grace Webber boot and win, 1-0.

The Damariscotta River Association’s newest trail in South Bristol has become “official” in that it has acquired a sign and a small parking area.

The 15-acre preserve, on Rutherford Island, is located between Atlantic and Roderick Roads with the trailhead off of West Side Road. It was acquired several years ago through a DRA fundraising effort. Last year the organization’s volunteer “Trail Tamers” built a trail within the preserve, creating the only public-access trail on the island.

This year, 14 bog bridges were constructed and laid in trail areas that tended to become muddy following wet weather. The trail passes near an osprey nest, along or over several stone walls, through patches of ferns, and adjacent to moss-covered rocks and forest.

The trail is well-marked with orange arrows. In addition, this summer a bench was placed at the trail’s terminus which overlooks the mouth of the Damariscotta River. Neighbors, whose property is adjacent to it, have commented that people were walking the trail nearly every day this summer, even though it did not have a sign or parking area until last week.

Damariscotta River Association’s executive director, Steven Hufnagel, has commented that connecting people with the river and nature is a major part of the DRA’s mission. He notes, “We’re grateful to the many community members who have helped to conserve this land and made this trail possible through their gifts of time and funding. It is gratifying to see it being used and appreciated already. And what a view to the river!”

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

Fall is here and with the changing of the seasons come shorter, cooler days and excellent trail hiking featuring bright colors and spectacular scenery in the Boothbay-Wiscasset region.

One hike suitable for any age and close to home is the Colby Wildlife Preserve, a part of the Boothbay Region Land Trust. This is an ideal place for a short but enjoyable hike or walk through the forest to a sheltered cove on Damariscotta River.

Getting there is easy. It’s about seven miles from Wiscasset village. Take Route 1 across the Davey Bridge and then make a right onto Route 27 headed to Boothbay. Just past Edgecomb Potters you’ll want to make a left onto McKay Road which carries you through some scenic countryside. The turnoff comes up fast and is just past the curve.

On McKay Road you’ll pass the parking area and kiosk for the River Link Trail featured in the Oct. 1 edition of the Wiscasset Newspaper. Continuing on you’ll soon come to a stop sign on the River Road; turn left, the Colby Preserve is exactly a half-mile down the road on your right. It’s marked with a sign but comes up fast.

A small kiosk offers information about the preserve, rules and a little information about the area’s history. The trail is an old tote road on the right and is blazed in white. It’s hard-packed and easily followed. On my last visit, I met a young mother who was out for a morning walk with her daughter and the family dog. The trail runs due east through the woods. Just off to the right is a fairly high rocky ridge that was logged out years ago.

I found the path heavily carpeted with gold and brown leaves. Although it’s the end of October, the woods are still surprisingly dry. The way leads you directly east and eventually to the water and a beautiful cove on Damariscotta River.

It was low tide during both my visits. Walking along the shore, I found a few chunks of orange and blackened bricks worn smooth by the coming and going of the tide. This inlet is known as Salt Marsh Cove and long ago was a thriving manufacturing center in the 19th century. Once upon a time there was a saltworks here and also a grist mill. Lumber was milled too, cut by an old-fashioned up-and-down saw and shipped from nearby Poole’s Landing just south of here. When those industries faded away, a brickworks opened and ice was cut and harvested during the winter. Nearly all traces of these early enterprises have completely vanished.

I searched along the shore looking for a ring bolt where scowls and lighters would tie on to. They’re fairly easy to find pinioned into the ledge and offer a clue where, in bygone days, a landing might have been located. Instead I discovered a good deal of sea lavender here. This plant that grows along the mudflat is often used in floral arrangements, although these specimens had lost much of their color having already gone by for the season.

Returning to the path, it gradually loops around and heads back to the parking area. A downed tree limb blocked the path at one point but was easy enough to climb over. Along with the white blaze marks on the trees there’s also small green and white BRLT signage to keep you on the path as it winds and twists its way back through the woods. The only tricky area is where the path crosses a small, rock-strewn rivulet, dry when I visited.  It’s easy enough to hop across but probably should be bridged.

Remember when you’re hiking in October and November you should wear a blaze orange vest or hat. Many land preserves permit hunting on their properties. No hunting is permitted anywhere in the state of Maine on Sundays.

Although the weather is cooler, 43 on the morning of my hike, deer ticks are still a concern because of Lyme disease. I didn’t find any ticks on me following my hike but had worn an insect repellent as a precaution.

In 1994, the property that became the Colby Wildlife Preserve was donated to the Boothbay Region Land Trust in memory of Kitzi Colby of Edgecomb. The 12-acre parcel was a gift of Mrs. Colby’s daughters, Joanna Cameron and Anni Black.

The preserve is open year-round and is free of charge. No overnight camping or open fires are permitted here. Dogs are permitted but should always be leashed during hunting season. For additional information about the Colby Wildlife Preserve and other BRLT properties go to: www.bbrlt.org.

One October, newcomer Burni wrote with glee about harvesting red berries. She had gone out to pick all she could.

“They’re almost too pretty to eat,” she raved.

I think I reached her before she served them to her city visitors. Who knows what combination of berries they all might have tasted?

If you are new to Maine, please know what you’re plucking. There are books to help one identify autumn fruits. Check with your county University of Maine Cooperative Extension office, taking samples to that office. (The Knox-Lincoln County office is on Manktown Road, Waldoboro, across from the High School. Mark Hutchinson is in charge.)

At this time of year, sessions on identification may be offered. Nature centers may show actual plants. Even set up your own exhibit or seasonal poster, leaving space for more berries or podded plants as you discover them.

At the same time, learn to recognize poison ivy. Here’s a plant that seems immortal. Know about its three leaves. This plant has berries, too. I believe some birds can eat them without harm, and so seeds may by chance be spread elsewhere.

Poison ivy can creep over ground, climb stone walls and even make its way up trees and bushes. Recognize it and make sure your children can, too.

If you are clearing a poison ivy-infested patch, wear clothes and gloves that can later be washed with strong soap. In your zeal to get rid of this nuisance, remove all cuttings from the premises. Do not burn poison ivy; it can penetrate your clothing, and inhaling the smoke will irritate your lungs.

Remedies are available. Ask the pharmacist at the drug store about what products best combat the effects of poison ivy.

All of this may sound rather dire, but humans have survived living with poison ivy for a long time, which proves that caution and avoidance may pay off.

Burni learned about edible berries and still thrives.

It pays to know what to eat – and what to admire only.

Hidden Valley Nature Center (HVNC) has more than 25 miles of well-maintained trails and is open year round for all types of non-motorized recreation. There are great trails for mountain bike enthusiasts of all levels.

On Sunday, November 8, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., HVNC is hosting an open house for mountain bikers of all skill levels. Whether you’re an experienced rider looking for some insight to HVNC, or a beginner who has always wanted to give it a try you are encouraged to attend.

Thanks to the Maine Winter Sports Center we will have 20 bikes and helmets available to rent for just $5 each. The bikes will fit most individuals 10 years or older. The rentals will be on a first come, first served basis. Or, try your hand at riding a fat tire bike. Bath Cycle and Ski will be on site with a handful of fat tire bikes that folks can take out on the trails.

A guided ride for mountain bike novices will leave from the Barn at 10:30. An experienced rider who knows HVNC’s trails well will take participants on a moderate 30-45 minute ride.

A guided ride for experienced riders will leave the Barn at 10:30 as well.

At 12:30, all kids ages 10-14 are invited to take part in a Kids Only ride. Eoin O’Mahoney, age 12, knows HVNC’s trails better than almost anyone. He’ll lead a group of kids on a moderate ride on some of HVNC’s more popular trails.

The open house is free to the public. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own bikes if they have them and explore the trails with others. If you bring a dog, please make sure they are bike friendly.

More information is available online at www.hvnc.org, info@hvnc.org, or call 207-200-8840.

While Damariscotta's big fall event has wrapped up, the town isn't without several spooky events on the calendar.

Damariscotta will look the part for the upcoming Halloween weekend, with the giant remnants of Pumpkinfest still lining Main Street.

The Damariscotta Police Department will again host Trunk or Treat starting at 5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 31 and running until 7 p.m. Trunk or Treat was started when Chief Ron Young joined the department in 2013 and features a safe place for kids to trick or treat.

The event is held at the parking lot in front of the police station, 21 School Street in Damariscotta. Candy donations are welcome. For more information, call the police department at 207-563-1909.

This year will also feature an annual tradition, as Great Salt Bay School's eighth graders will attempt to scare the masses during the annual Fall Harvest Fair.

The fair is the largest fundraiser for the eighth graders’ class trip to Boston in the spring, and features food, games and a haunted house. This year, the theme is a lunatic asylum, though there will be different levels of scariness, so different ages can enjoy the haunted house.

Harvest Fair will be Saturday, Oct. 31, at the Great Salt Bay gym from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Harvest Fair is free, but there will be tickets and food for sale to help aid the eighth graders. There will also be a silent auction with items and services supplied by local businesses.

But it isn't just kids getting into the Halloween spirit: There will be plenty of chances for four-legged critters to get treats for tricks.

The Animal House is hosting several events both dog and Halloween-themed. On Thursday, Oct. 29 the Lincoln County Animal Shelter will bring several adoptable dogs and cats from 4 to 6 p.m.

Friday, Oct. 30 will be “Dogtoberfest Celebration” with dog beer and sausages, a scavenger hunt and games. The beer, which is for dogs, is chicken or pork-based.

Saturday, Oct. 31 will be Trick or Treat time at the Animal House from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. All dogs in costume get a free gift.

AUGUSTA -- Maine’s firearm deer season begins this Saturday. Even with last year’s long winter, Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife biologists are expecting that the 2015 deer will be a successful one for many hunters.

Maine’s deer season is divided into several different seasons. The firearms season for deer opens on Saturday, October 31 for residents and Monday, November 2 for nonresidents. The firearm season for deer concludes on November 28. Muzzleloading season begins on November 30 and runs for one week in northern and eastern Maine and for two weeks in southern and central Maine. The regular archery season extends from October 1-October 30, with an expanded archery season open in select areas from September 12 to December 12. For more information on deer season and all hunting regulations, please visit www.mefishwildlife.com.

The tradition of deer hunting in Maine continues to increase in popularity. Resident hunting license sales have increased each year since 2005 and non-resident licenses sales have also increased each of the past three years.

Last year, there were 224,039 licensed hunters in the state, and it is estimated that more than 160,000 hunt deer in Maine. Hunting is how the Department manages the deer population, and according to a recent economic survey by Southwick Associates, hunting in Maine contributes more than $338 million ($338,730,639) annually to Maine’s economy. Deer hunting alone contributes more than $100 million ($101,419,052). The full study can be found here at http://www.maine.gov/ifw/pdfs/ME_Hunt_Economics%20Final%20Report%2010-06-2014.pdf.

“While last year’s winter certainly stretched into spring, December and much of January was relatively snow-free, which lessened winter’s impact on Maine’s deer herd,” said IFW’s deer biologist Kyle Ravana. The lack of snow early in the winter allowed deer to feed and conserve energy, lessening some of the effects of the long winter.

White-tailed deer in Maine are near the northern edge of their population range, and winter can impact deer survival. Maine’s deer population has rebounded from the severe winters of 2008 and 2009, which now stands at approximately 210,000, up from approximately 146,000 after the 2009 winter. Deer are more abundant in southern, central and coastal Maine than in northern, western and downeast Maine.

Maine’s wildlife biologists monitor winter severity throughout the state from December through April to determine the impact that winter weather has on deer survival. The 2014-15 deer season was above average in its severity throughout nearly the entire state. In order to offset the effects of the winter, IFW biologists opted to act conservatively and decreased the amount of Any-Deer permits available to hunters this year.

IFW closely regulates the harvest of does, which is how biologists can increase or decrease deer numbers within our Wildlife Management Districts. This year, 28,770 Any-Deer permits were issued, compared to 37,185 last year. The reduction in Any-Deer permits will result in more breeding female deer remaining in the population, allowing the population to rebound more quickly.

Each year Maine’s biologists examine thousands of deer for disease, analyze deer teeth to determine age structure of the harvest, monitor antler beam diameters and weights, from yearling bucks, conduct hunter surveys to determine hunter effort and deer sighting rates, and even examine road-killed deer to look at productivity and breeding success.

Together the information gives department biologists a clearer picture of the health and size of Maine’s deer population. For example, antler beam diameter can determine the nutritional status of the animals, and where the population is in relation to the habitat’s ability to sustain it.

“Generally what we see is that the deer look to be healthy,” said Ravana. “Our average yearling weight in Maine is over 119 pounds, and that is above average when compared to other New England states.”

Last year, hunters harvested 22,490 deer. 15,986 of those deer were bucks, and 6,504 were antlerless deer. Maine’s firearm season for deer continues to be the most popular, with 18,510 deer harvested by hunters in 2014. Maine’s archery season accounted for 2,086 deer, muzzleloaders took 1,064 deer, and on youth day, 810 young hunters were successful.

In order to help get kids and families outside having fun, Hidden Valley Nature Center (HVNC) in Jefferson partners with the Maine Winter Sports Center to lease affordable, quality cross-country ski equipment to local kids ages kindergarten through eighth grade. Families can lease high quality skis, boots, and poles through HVNC for the entire winter. Each child will get sized for the gear and then take it home for the season. That way, kids and families can ski on great equipment wherever, whenever they want.

Families will have two opportunities to get outfitted with their equipment. The first, on Wednesday, Nov. 11, at the YMCA in Damariscotta from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Then again on Saturday, Nov. 14, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at HVNC in Jefferson. The child who will use the skis must be present. Any questions about the ski lease program can be directed to Andy, andy@hvnc.org, or details are online at www.hvnc.org/xc-ski-clinic/.

In past years, participants were sized for equipment and parents made arrangements to pick up the equipment several weeks later. This year, we’re excited to announce that participants will be sized and given their equipment on the same day. This means we can ensure proper fit for the boots, and kids will have their skis in case of an early season snow.

The ski lease package is $65 per participant. Some scholarships are available. To inquire about the scholarships please write to andy@hvnc.org.

Also, HVNC will also offer the annual kids ski clinic for kids ages 5-12. The clinic will start in early January and run each Saturday morning for about six weeks. Details are forthcoming. The clinic is the perfect setting for skiers of different levels to gain confidence and enjoy HVNC’s trails. Instructors use fun, non-competitive methods to get the skiers out on the trails having fun each week. For more information see the link above.

HVNC is a non-profit education and recreation center in Jefferson. HVNC is open to the public three hundred and sixty-five days a year, dawn to dusk. Come explore thirty miles of trails as they twist and wind across 1,000 acres of diverse habitat. More information available online at www.hvnc.org, info@hvnc.org, or call 207-200-8840.

Ruleo Camacho received a Young Investigator Award at the Ninth Florida State University Mote Symposium in Sarasota, Florida.

The triennial symposium focuses on issues relevant to fisheries. This year’s topic, Territorial Use Rights for Fishers (TURFs), drew about 100 people from all over the world including South Africa, Chile, Australia, India, Canada, the Caribbean, and the U.S.

The issue at hand was to determine if TURFs, which work well in some small-scale fisheries, could be scaled up in order to benefit fishermen and coastal communities in other parts of the world.

Camacho’s thesis research, “Antigua's Community Based No-Take Reserves: Developing a Bottom-Up TURF for Coral Reef Ecosystems,” received rave reviews from the symposium’s international organizing committee.

Camacho’s focus on coral reefs and the community-based TURF system was fueled by past experience. He grew up in Antigua and Barbuda and saw first hand the degradation of coral ecosystem health around the islands due to the effects of overfishing, pollution and natural factors like hurricanes.

Management of these marine ecosystems was virtually nonexistent when Camacho began his work. With guidance from Dr. Bob Steneck and Dr. Teresa Johnson, his advisors at the University of Maine’s School of Marine Sciences, Camacho developed the idea of creating a bottom-up management system to positively influence reef health.

Camacho's work as a community organizer, convincing the fishing community to not fish a reef in the Falmouth region of Antigua, has had unprecedented success on an island where most government imposed initiatives are ignored and not enforced.

Shifting the primary responsibility of resource management to the main stakeholders, the fishermen, was the key to creating the reserve. He actively involved the fishermen in the discussions regarding formation of the reserve, location, improvements and management. The decision to not fish is completely voluntary and there is no external enforcement.

The take home message, says Camacho, is that “community-based management is a viable alternative to current (but failing) top-down management practices in Antigua and Barbuda to positively influence the key drivers needed for the recovery of the islands' coral reef ecosystems.”

Steneck, who also attended the conference, said “Ruleo has every reason to be proud of his award.”

The small reserve he created is a demonstration project for the fishing community in Antigua who are mostly too young to ever have seen a healthy coral reef. It is extremely hard to discuss future options with stakeholders if they have no concept of what the future could look like.

Darling Center director Heather Leslie praised Camacho for his innovative, community-based approach to research, noting “Ruleo’s interdisciplinary approach to marine science and stewardship is exactly what we need to tackle 21st  century ocean challenges.”

Based at the University of Maine’s Darling Marine Center in Walpole, Camacho is a pursuing a dual master’s degree in marine biology and marine policy. A Fulbright Foreign Scholarship and a Thurgood Marshall Scholarship have funded his research.

A pair of end-of-season boat rides ended in an unexpected way Saturday, Oct. 31 near Squirrel Island.

Two local boaters were able to free and save a minke whale that had become caught on a lobster buoy line to the west of the island.

Eric Graves, general manager at the Boothbay Harbor Shipyard, along with Dan and Theresa Williams, of Dan’s Auto Repair Service in Boothbay, rescued a minke whale that had been caught in a pot buoy's line, and was struggling to remain above water on Halloween.

Graves said he, his wife Sharolyn, and two friends Josh and Lisa Navone came upon the whale as they were heading out towards the Cuckolds Lighthouse from Boothbay Harbor. When they got near, they could see the whale struggling, Graves said.

“She was hung up on the line and when we got there she was exhausted,” he said. “She was basically just sitting still. Every few minutes it would drop down a little bit then bob-up to catch a breath.”

With no gear on board to extricate the animal, Graves sent out a call for help.

Like Graves and his passengers, the Williamses were out for their final boat ride of the year. They had been out near the mouth of the Damariscotta River when they heard Graves' call to the Coast Guard. Dan Williams said he went to lend a hand because his boat had a lobster hauler and other equipment on board.

A call was made to the Center for Coastal Studies, a Provincetown, Mass.-based organization that specializes in freeing whales. Graves said a team was being assembled to travel north to try and free the whale.

Williams said he normally would have waited, but the whale appeared to be struggling in its exhausted state.

Williams said he wanted to see where the line had caught the whale. He said his fear was that the line had wrapped around a fin or tail, but was relieved when he saw the rope was only caught in the whale's mouth.

“I kept looking for the Coast Guard or someone else to come by,” he said. “But I wasn't just going to sit there and let him hang. If he was bound I wasn't going to risk it, but it was just in his mouth so I felt good about helping him out.”

Dan Williams said when the line was first run through the trap hauler, the whale began to sink. So, Williams again tried to pull on the rope, albeit slowly, and eventually the rope untangled from the whale's jaw.

“I didn't want to just cut the line,” he said. “We just kept bringing him up slowly until we were able to figure out where he was caught.”

Williams said the line had caught around the rear part of the whale's jaw, and the animal couldn't dislodge the rope by itself.

After approximately 15 minutes the line was pulled out and the whale was freed, Graves said.

“She came up, took a big breath and took off. She went a long ways after that,” he said. “She must have been there for many hours. When we got there she could barely keep her head out of the water.”

Williams said it took a little caress but the whale was left visibly unharmed.

“We put a little strain on the line and it popped out of his mouth and away he went,” he said. “He was pretty well exhausted when we got him loose, and he seemed pleased to go on his way.”

Williams said he fishes for tuna and shark and had seen plenty of whales, but it was his first time freeing one.

While the whale took a breath and wasn't seen again, Graves and his party celebrated the only way he said one can celebrate in such a situation.

“We all went to the Thistle (Inn) after and had a good time telling everyone and showing them the photos on the phone,” he said. We determined after saving whales you have to have hot Grand Marnier.”

Midcoast Conservancy is the name of the new alliance of four local land and water conservation organizations. After nearly two years of planning and collaboration, Damariscotta Lake Watershed Association, Hidden Valley Nature Center, Sheepscot Valley Conservation Association and Sheepscot Wellspring Land Alliance have joined forces, and resources.

Midcoast Conservancy’s mission is to support and promote healthy lands, waters, wildlife, and people in the Midcoast through conservation, education, and recreation.

Midcoast Conservancy will serve much of Waldo and Lincoln counties, have a clear focus on clean water, provide over 60 miles of publicly accessible trails, fields trips and programs designed to help people of all ages deepen their curiosity of the natural world, and 6,300 acres of conserved land that are open to the public for non-motorized recreation.

According to Jody Jones, executive director of the Damariscotta Lake Watershed Association, the process used to develop the organization’s new name is indicative of an outward-looking, community-based approach.

“We knew from the start that it was essential to involve our collective memberships. After all, they helped build the four founding organizations and we will need their help to build a new regional group.”

A group of current staff, members of boards of directors and volunteers formed a marketing and branding committee. Their first task was to solicit ideas and feedback from the membership. Nearly 400 members participated in voting and comment sessions. More than fifty suggestions for new names were sent to the committee.

The committee evaluated the membership response closely. They also sought-out the input of branding professionals from local advertising agencies and from the Land Trust Alliance to bring more perspective to the process.

“Ultimately, Midcoast Conservancy was chosen as the best name based on compiling input from members and advice from professionals with expertise in this area,” said Andy McEvoy, Director of Hidden Valley Nature Center and one of the committee members. “There was a preference for a short name, and it was important to our members that the name clearly reflect what we do, and where we do it.” Anything more than that, he said, will get captured in a creative new logo and tagline.

“I’m excited to see that Midcoast Conservancy will continue to build on the successes of each of the founding organizations and that they are obviously attuned to their communities,” says Tim Glidden, President of Maine Coast Heritage Trust. “I’m confident that the Midcoast Conservancy will involve the people and institutions in the area to achieve effective conservation.”

Midcoast Conservancy will be bringing together all current staff from the four organizations--eight professionals, with a combined 125 years of conservation experience. Staff areas of expertise include water quality, invasive plant management, conservation planning, forestry and land management, communications, and education. The new staff includes Jody Jones (Executive Director), Steve Patton (Transition Coordinator), Anna Fiedler (Director of Land & Water Conservation), Garrison Beck (Lakes & Rivers Manager), Andy McEvoy (Forest Stewardship & Recreation Manager), Lynne Flaccus (Stewardship & Education Manager), Ali Stevenson (Communications & Marketing Manager), and Kristin Pennock (Office & Finance Manager).

Although the merger will become formal Jan. 1, 2016, the Midcoast Conservancy staff have already come together to work on expanding the reach of their the conservation, education and recreation opportunities that will be the hallmark of Midcoast Conservancy’s collective mission.

For any questions, contact Ali Stevenson at (207) 549-3836 or ali@dlwa.org.

The Kennebec Estuary Land Trust (KELT) presents its annual environmental lecture, Water Quality of the Estuary, at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 18 at the Maine Maritime Museum in Bath. The lecture will detail KELT's water sampling and water quality programs begun in 2012. Program highlights, collaborations, and results will be shared by KELT's Project Coordinator Ruth Indrick and Bowdoin College Professor Michèle LaVinge's marine biogeochemistry class.

The Kennebec Estuary is where the fresh waters that flow into Merrymeeting Bay and out along the lower Kennebec River meet and mix with the salty water of the Gulf of Maine. A rich and diverse habitat, it is important to understand natural and human-made impacts on this environment, especially as the estuary supports various fishing and tourism industries in the region.

Since 2012, more than 20 volunteers have helped to collect 526 water samples from 19 sites in the Kennebec Estuary for KELT's volunteer sampling program. Information collected and measured by volunteers about temperature, salinity, dissolved oxygen, and pH will be shared during the fall lecture along with what the numbers mean for Kennebec Estuary waters.

KELT's water sampling program started as a collaboration between KELT, Maine Department of Marine Resources, and local shellfish committees three years ago when the priority was opening shellfish flats to clam diggers. By 2013, many of the highest priority shellfish flats that could be open, were opened for harvesting. At that point, KELT expanded the focus on the greater estuary waters to learn more about the characteristics that describe the quality of water, i.e. temperature, salinity, dissolved oxygen, and pH.

A $5 donation is suggested for the evening lecture. The Maine Maritime Museum is located at 243 Washington Street in Bath. The lecture is generously sponsored by Bath Savings Trust Company and Merrymeeting Bay Trust.

Another sports season has come and gone and this year saw several Wiscasset Middle High School Wolverines pick up several awards.

During the Thursday, Nov. 5 awards night dinner at the school, the school's athletes were feted for their feats. Some of those awards were from coaches and teammates while other awards came from conference coaches.

Although they weren't able to clinch a playoff berth, the season ended on a high note for the boys varsity soccer team. The Wolverines were able to win their last game against Oak Hill to push their record to 4-9-1 and come within mere percentage points from making the playoffs.

Head Coach Chris Cossette named Russell Marr the most valuable player and Brandon Goud as the most improved player. Senior Brycson Grover was given the coaches award while Alex Webber won the sportsmanship trophy and the captains award went to Sam Strozier.

For the girls varsity soccer team, the early part of the schedule saw the Wolverines trying to field enough players to be competitive. But, like the boys team, the girls were able to finish strong and contend for a playoff spot with a 3-11 record.

Head coach Duane Goud's team named Keara Hunter as his coaches award winner, Stephanie Jones as the most improved player, Grace Webber as the winner of the sportsmanship award and senior Colleen Hendricks as the winner of the Wolverine award. The Wolverine award is given to the player who best exemplifies the ideals and values of Wiscasset Middle High School.

In cross country, first-year head coach Eva Castor picked Amanda Marcus as her most valuable runner and Amanda Johnson as the most improved. Brandon Goud was named as the most valuable runner for the boys cross country team and Angus Putnam was picked as the most improved runner on the squad.

Grover, Hendricks, Johnson, Marcus and Alex Webber were all picked as conference academic all-stars. Grant Hefler was picked to the conference golf all-star team and Kevin Lynch was selected to the Class C all-conference's first team. Grover and Marr were named to the conference's second team while Sam Storer, Hendricks, Hunter and Goud were all named to the conference's honorable mention team.

A rematch of the 2015 Busline League Southern Division Championship was played Monday, Nov. 10 in Nobleboro to open the season for Wiscasset and Nobleboro's middle school boys basketball teams.

Wiscasset came away with a 60-50 win in the rematch.

Noah Haggett led Wiscasset with 23 points and 12 rebounds and Dylan Orr poured in 14 points and dished-out six assists while Billy Pinkham added 11 points and four assists. Josh Jones contributed six points and nine rebounds. Nobleboro was led by Zach Tozier and his game-high 24 points while Andrew Cardillo added 19 points.

The time has come for Wiscasset Middle High School athletes to take to the courts and pool for another winter sports season.

The basketball season has already tipped off for the middle school teams, as boys head coach James Roy's team won its Nov. 9 opener against Nobleboro and with head coach Chris Cossette's team playing afterward.

The boys varsity basketball team, which is coached by head coach Dana Lawrence and assistant coach Mike Pare, will play its first game at Madison Area Memorial High School at 11 a.m. From there, things won't get much easier as the rival Boothbay Region Seahawks come to Wiscasset Dec. 7 at 7 p.m. for the first home game of the year.

The girls team will be helmed this year by longtime assistant coach Ben Clark with Daniela Marino taking his place as assistant coach. Clark and the Wolverines will start the year Nov. 21 at home against new division mate Richmond at 3 p.m. Like the boys team, the girls will be tested early when Boothbay Region comes to Wiscasset Dec. 7 at 5:30 p.m.

The swim team will again be coached by Noreen McLeod and will dive into its regular season schedule Dec. 4 at Wiscasset Community Center when visiting Erskine Academy comes to town.

Full Wiscasset Middle High School schedules:

Girls varsity basketball

3 p.m. Nov. 21 home, hosting Richmond

1:30 p.m. Nov. 27, away at Winthrop

7:30 p.m. Dec. 5,  away at Mt. Valley

5:30 p.m. Dec. 7 home, hosting Boothbay Region

5:30 p.m. Dec. 9, away at Telstar

2:30 p.m. Dec. 12, away at Carrabec

7 p.m. Dec. 14 home, hosting Hall-Dale

7 p.m. Dec. 18, away at Lisbon

7 p.m. Dec. 22, home,hosting Mt. Abram

7 p.m. Dec. 28, home, hosting Oak Hill

5:30 p.m. Jan. 2, away at Monmouth

7 p.m. Jan. 4, away at Dirigo

7 p.m. Jan. 7, home, hosting Carrabec

7 p.m. Jan. 11, home, hosting Lisbon

5:30 p.m. Jan. 14, away at St. Doms

7 p.m. Jan. 23, away at Winthrop

7 p.m. Jan. 25, away at Boothbay Region

7 p.m. Jan. 28, home, hosting St. Doms

7 p.m. Feb. 2, home, hosting Madison

5:30 p.m. Feb. 3, home, hosting Monmouth

Boys varsity basketball

11 a.m. Nov. 21, away at Madison

7 p.m. Dec. 2, away at Oak Hill

6 p.m. Dec. 5, away at Mt. Valley

7 p.m. Dec. 7, home, hosting Boothbay Region

7 p.m. Dec. 9, away at Telstar

7 p.m. Dec. 11, home, hosting Carrabec

7 p.m. Dec. 14, home, hosting Hall-Dale

7 p.m. Dec. 17, away at Lisbon

7 p.m. Dec. 21, home, hosting Mt. Abram

7 p.m. Dec. 29, home, hosting Oak Hill

7 p.m. Jan. 2, away at Monmouth

7 p.m. Jan. 5, away at Dirigo

7 p.m. Jan. 7, away at Carrabec

7 p.m. Jan. 12, home, hosting Lisbon

7 p.m. Jan. 14, away at St. Doms

7 p.m. Jan. 22, away at Winthrop

5:30 p.m. Jan. 25, away at Boothbay Region

5:30 p.m. Jan. 28,home, hosting St. Doms

7 p.m. Feb. 1, home, hosting Madison

7 p.m. Feb. 3, home, hosting Monmouth Academy

Varsity swimming

5:30 p.m. Dec. 4, home, hosting Erskine

7 p.m. Dec. 8, away at St. Doms

5:30 p.m. Dec. 15, home, hosting Mt. Ararat

5 p.m. Dec. 18, home, hosting Morse

6 p.m. Dec. 22, away at Lincoln Academy/Boothbay

5:30 p.m. Jan. 15, home, hostsing Gardiner

5:30 p.m. Jan. 22, home, hostng Cony

5:30 p.m. Jan. 29, home, hosting Camden

Middle School basketball

All games begin at 3:45 p.m.

Nov. 23, away at Woolwich

Nov. 30 home (WMHS), hosting Jefferson (boys only)

Dec. 2 home (WMHS), hosting South Bristol

Dec. 7 home (WES), hosting Nobleboro

Dec. 9 away at Jefferson

Dec. 14 home (WES), hosting Bristol

Dec. 16 away at St. George

Jan. 4 home (WHMS), hosting Woolwich

Jan. 6 away at Jefferson, (boys only)

Jan. 11 away at South Bristol (girls only)

Jan. 11 away at Bristol (boys only)

The International Maritime Film Festival (IMFF) is now accepting submissions for a juried contest of films celebrating the heritage, spirit of adventure, and ingenuity of boats and waterborne pursuits. It is the premier event for maritime-themed filmmaking.

The IMFF is a joint venture between Northeast Historic Film (NHF) in Bucksport and WoodenBoat Publications, Inc. (WBPI), in Brooklin. NHF is the technical partner, and brings a constellation of film experts to the organization, while WBPI, with its rich understanding of the topic, serves as the media and content partner.

The Alamo, NHF’s state-of-the art theatre in Bucksport, will host a gala awards event on the weekend of Sept. 30 through Oct. 2, 2016. It will be a small, exclusive event centered at the Alamo and will include two days of screenings, short presentations, and parties. One of these parties will be held on the seaside campus of WoodenBoat in Brooklin.

In the months after the awards event, a compilation of winners will be offered to venues worldwide.

IMFF accepts documentary films on a broad range of maritime subjects. These include, but are not limited to, voyaging, racing, working, leisure, boatbuilding and restoration, historical documentary, environment and science.

Judging is not category-specific; rather, all films will be evaluated in relation to each other, in one of two tracks: Feature Length (40 minutes or more), or Shorts (under 40 minutes). All films are to be in English, or to carry English subtitles.

All submissions must be made online at maritimefilmfestival.com. Submissions deadline is July 1. The entry fee is $45. Winners will be announced on or before Aug. 1.

The Grand Prize winner will receive $1,000; runners up in both tracks will receive $500; and an audience favorite, determined on the festival weekend, will receive $500.

For more information, visit the film festival website.

Padebco Custom Boat Builders & Full Service Boatyard recently launched its newest model, the V25R.

The sporty express-style 25’ runabout is designed on a solid fiberglass hull, and offers a cuddy cabin with v-berth, head, refrigerated wet bar and many other options. Her classic Downeast lines, teak accents and powerful twin Yamaha 150s draw attention both in the harbor and out on the water.

The V25R’s seakeeping characteristics make her equally successful as a pleasure boat and as a ship’s tender for larger vessels.

“The V25R’s design developed from a need for a sporty mid-sized runabout in Padebco’s product line that appeals to a new generation of boat owners,” said Padebco President Leon MacCorkle. “It combines speed and ease of handling, with overnight accommodations and socializing. The V25R is large enough to accommodate a group of people, yet nimble enough for one person to operate with confidence.”

The V25R easily carves through the water with top speeds just under 50 mph (43 knots). Standing or sitting at the helm delivers excellent visibility and, with a quick glance, grants full views of navigation displays. Her quiet twin 150hp engines ensure a comfortable, smooth, and dry ride leaving a minimal wake.

While compact and easy to maneuver, she is designed for comfort and socializing. The V25R’s deck plan includes comfortable seating for up to eight adults on mid-ship and aft bench seats in addition to helm and mate seats. A substantial refrigerated wet bar with pressurized water is located midship.

This versatile runabout offers a roomy and finely crafted v-berth cuddy cabin complete with hanging locker and head, ensuring a comfortable weekend get-away for a couple exploring the coastline.

The V25R is available with many custom options including; hull color, fabric selection, trim details, and more. Padebco has over 50 years of experience building custom yachts. The genuine craftsmanship and design that is part of each Padebco combined with ideas and input of its owners result in each well-built vessel being distinctive.

For more information, visit www.padebco.com or call (207) 529-5106.