DATE

OPPONENT

TIME

Sept. 20

@ UMA

4:15 p.m.

Oct. 3

@ Lisbon w/ BB SD

4:15 p.m.

Oct. 13

MVC Meet @ UMA

10 a.m.

   

DATE

OPPONENT

 

TIME

Sept. 14

Telestar 

5:30 p.m.

Sept. 17

@ Boothbay 

7 p.m.

Sept. 21

@ Mt. Abram 

JV 5 p.m./V 7 p.m.

Sept. 24

Lisbon 

3:30 p.m.

Sept. 27

@ Spruce Mountain 

3:30 p.m.

Oct. 1

Winthrop 

3:30 p.m.

Oct. 9

Oak Hill 

6:30 p.m.

Oct. 11

@ Hall-Dale 

3:30 p.m.

Oct. 17

MVC Champ @ Wiscasset 

5 p.m.

DATE

OPPONENT

TIME

Sept. 13

@ St. Dom’s w/Mt. Valley

3:30 p.m.

Sept. 17

Winthrop/ Mt.Valley/Monmouth

3:30 p.m.

Sept. 19

@ Telestar w/ Winthrop

3:30 p.m.

Sept. 24

@ Madison w/ Oak Hill

3:30 p.m.

Sept. 26

Rd 1 Playoffs

8@1, 7@2, 6@3, 5@4

TBA

Oct. 1

MVC Semifinals @ Natanis

TBA

Oct. 3

MVC Class C Qual.

TBA


Red Cloak Haunted History Tours, which has hosted walking tours exploring the “other side” of five Midcoast towns for the past 7 years, is opening a new option for their guests: Red Cloak Cemetery Tours.

The new Red Cloak Cemetery Tours premiered in Wiscasset on September 4 and will continue three days a week through September and October.

Wiscasset is the first town in which a Red Cloak Cemetery Tour will be offered. The tours are also under development in Newcastle, Boothbay Harbor, Camden and Bath.

A portion of the proceeds from each Red Cloak Cemetery Tour in Wiscasset will benefit the Lincoln County Historical Association. “These are the folks who work so hard to keep our local history alive,” Red Cloak Haunted History Tours Director Sally Lobkowicz said. “They deserve our support.”

Red Cloak Cemetery Tours will contribute $1 for each person on the tour, with that contribution included in the tour fee of $12 for adults and $7 for children. “It’s a great way for the public to enjoy an entertaining and educational tour, while supporting the Lincoln County Historical Association,” Lobkowicz said.

All tours will be held during daylight hours in the early evening.

Each tour will focus on the stories of those interred at the cemeteries, their history and the symbolism of their tombstones. Tour guides will give a general history of cemeteries, graveyards and funeral practices.

Different from the regular Red Cloak Haunted History Tours, Red Cloak Cemetery Tours will not have much of a focus on ghosts and hauntings, though one or two ghost stories will be included, Lobkowicz said. However, the trademark Lady in the Red Cloak, dressed in period clothes and carrying a brass lantern, will still lead the walking tours.

“We’ve had a great response from both locals and visitors to the Red Cloak Haunted History Tours, with even long-time residents often exclaiming how little they knew about local history,” Lobkowicz said.

“We’re hoping we can now really personalize our local history with Red Cloak Cemetery Tours by telling the stories of people who played a role in making that history, no matter how small their contribution.”

The tours will also include discussion on the meaning of symbols on the headstones.

“I really appreciate the symbolism of the markings on the stones and the heartfelt epitaphs sometimes biblical sometimes written by loving family members,” Lobkowicz said.

“You realize in a graveyard that there is so much to life; much of which is told by death in these often weather-worn memorials and the stories etched in their stone faces.”

For more information or reservations, contact the Lady in the Red Cloak at 380-3806.


Sally Lobkowicz, director of Red Cloak Haunted History Tours, explores a cemetery. The popular walking tours, which have included five Mid Coast Maine towns for the past seven years, is opening a new option for their guests Red Cloak Cemetery Tours.

Dolphin Mini Golf held its 19th Annual Open September 8-9 to raise money for the Shriners Children’s Hospital.

The tournament attracted professional mini golfers from all parts of the country. This year, 32 mini golfers competed for trophies, cash prizes and a highly coveted jacket. In first place was Elmer Lawson of Redington, Pa. Lawson took the tournament by storm, beating the nearest opponent by 21 strokes. Lawson took home the jacket, a gold medal and $1,000 cash prize. Winning the runner-up trophy was Dusty Stoddard of Boothbay, followed by third place finisher Joshua Tiberio of Rhode Island.

Each golfer played ten rounds of golf on the par 50 course, with Lawson averaging a par of 34.4 per round. Round nine showcased Lawson’s best performance when he shot 20 under par, which included six hole-in-ones. Lawson, who first played at Dolphin Mini Golf in 1998, said he liked this course because it’s little but challenging. “My putter and ball is doing everything. I’m just around for the ride,” he said.

Dolphin Mini Golf Owner and Tournament Director Lee Stoddard said he had never witnessed such a blowout performance in all 19 years of the open. “Usually it’s within a couple strokes or two,” Stoddard said.  

The junior, amateur and senior divisions were played a day earlier.

Eric Smith was the winner of the junior series, followed by runner-up Clista Pagurko, and Aidan Stoddard taking third place respectively.

Winners of the amateur division were John Howard, Chip Howard and Gert Tibbetts.

Rounding off the top three finishers in the senior division were Bob Stoddard, Ainsley McPhee and Dean McPhee.

The final round participants, above right, were (back row, from left) John O'Leary, Josh Tiberio, Peter Gilchrist, Nancy Gilchrist, Chris Baum, Steve Hill, Lee Stoddard, Sean MacDonough, Mandy Ranslow, Pat Sheridan, Randy Rice, Todd McPhee. (Front row, from left) were Caleb Jones, Evan Goodkowsky, Alex Cromwell, Dusty Stoddard, Elmer Lawson, Terri Lawson, Sam Venettuoli, Craig Sanchez, Danny Olejnik, Bob Stoddard.

Elmer Lawson shoots for a birdie on the 15th hole in front of a crowd of onlookers. RYAN LEIGHTON/Boothbay Register

A few games of tennis could rebuild the ground under your feet.

The “Support Your Courts” tournament will be on September 29 and 30 and will raise funds for repairing the high school tennis courts.

Each year the high school's tennis courts must be patched due to frost heaves. This past spring, the high school teams could not play their home matches on the courts because the cracks were hazardous. Over the summer the courts were patched again, but another winter will create the same result.

To enter the tournament, sign up by Wednesday, Sept. 26 at 9 p.m. at at http://sites.google.com/site/boothbayregiontennistournament.

Divisions include: youth doubles, under age 14, $10); adult male and female doubles or singles, $15; or adult mixed doubles, $15. If you wish to play in more than one category, the cost will be $25.

Make checks out to the “Support Your Courts” Tennis Fund. Even if you wish not to play, we would greatly appreciate your donation.

Due to the Maine Principals' Association rules, high school students who plan to play on teams this year are not eligible to participate in the tournament.

Draws and play times will be ready by Friday, Sept. 28 at 11 a.m. Plan to arrive 30 minutes before your play time.

You will be able to pay when you check in at the courts before playing. All players should bring an unopened can of USTA-approved tennis balls (brands such as Penn or Wilson). You may also purchase balls at the courts.

Prizes will be given to the winners in each category.

We wish to thank Kate and Chip Schwehm, and Danielle ad Brad Betts, for all of the work they have done to make this tournament possible.

Story Time will begin again at the Wiscasset Public Library Children’s Room on Thursdays at 10:30 a.m. each week beginning September 13. As autumn creeps toward us, stories of apples, falling leaves, and pumpkins are some of the topics for the first few weeks of Story Times.

Often a related activity follows the story. Parents are welcome to bring a favorite read-aloud to share. All are welcomed to join on Thursdays for Story Time.

Audrey gathers some carefully selected books to read until she returns for Story Time next week.

“Sprouts!” is the calendar heading Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens uses for programs and special events for children and families, and this fall season is sprouting a lot of activities (many of which are free) that will appeal to the younger audience. 

Storytime at the Gardens will continue at 10 a.m. in the Children’s Garden on Saturdays, Sundays, and Mondays through Columbus Day. Then this popular, free program will head indoors to the education center and continue on Mondays at 10 a.m. right through the winter.

Cider Sundays, from 1 to 3 p.m. every Sunday through October 14, will offer a tasty, fun-filled experience for the young visitor. 

Children will learn how cider is made, try their hand at the cider press, and then enjoy the fruits of their labors.

Saturdays and Sundays through Columbus Day, children can also participate in a chicken feeding at 12:30 p.m. and a nature-based discovery-station activity from 2 to 2:30 p.m. Weekends through Columbus Day weekend will also bring the Story Tour, an orientation for all ages to learn about the books by Maine authors that inspired many features of the Children’s Garden. 

Among the many referenced works are the bear in bronze from “Blueberries for Sal,” the boat from “Burt Dow, Deep Water Man,” both by Robert McCloskey, and “Charlotte’s Web” by E.B. White.

Storytime, Story Tours, Cider Sundays, chicken feeding, and discovery stations are included in regular gardens admission. No reservations are necessary. Some of these activities are held on weekdays, as well. Visitors should ask at the admissions desk for a listing of daily activities. 

Scarecrow Sunday is scheduled for September 30, from 1 to 3 p.m. Families can build their own scarecrow with the materials provided. The price is $10 per scarecrow, in addition to regular gardens admission. Registration guarantees a scarecrow; and participants are encouraged to come early for the best selection of materials. 

The Boo-tanical Gardens’ popular Family Fright Night event is on Saturday, Oct. 27, from 4 to 7 p.m. During this major event, kids can join in the costume parade and win prizes; make crafts, trick-or-treat, and find some frightful surprises in the Children’s Garden; and savor fun finger foods, all with a ghoulish twist. 

The spooky decorations are amazing, and it’s all scary (but not too scary) fun. Prices for members are $10 for adults and $7 for children; for non-members they’re $15 and $12. 

The famous Frozen Turkey Hunt will return on Saturday, Nov. 17 at 11 a.m., with the hunt beginning at 11:15 a.m. Admission to both the gardens and this event is free. 

Children in different age groups will search the grounds for hidden apples, a great many of which are worth prizes, including lots of frozen turkeys. It’s an annual favorite, and great tradition, at the gardens. November 17 is also Early Bird Sale Day in Boothbay Harbor, and the Gardens Gift Shop will be open for sale-seeking late risers. 

The gardens’ fall exhibits would also be of interest to many children. “On the Wing,” which includes 50 pieces of sculpture related to birds, will be on view until October 8. 

The exhibit of images and artifacts about Rachel Carson on view through October 23, celebrates the 50th anniversary of her groundbreaking work, “Silent Spring.” There’s even the camera she used. 

In addition, educators are invited to bring school groups in grades K-6 to learn about Rachel Carson and experience their own “Sense of Wonder” while taking a guided hike through our forests. These hikes will be offered for a minimal fee through October. 

To learn more and to register when necessary, visit www.MaineGardens.org, call 633-4333, ext. 101, or stop by the Gardens, off Barters Island Road in Boothbay

Fall/Winter Hours

Monday to Thursday, 5 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday, 5 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Saturday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.; and Sunday, 1 to 5 p.m. (Pool closes at 8:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 7 p.m. on Friday.)

Fall Soccer

Registration going on now.

After School Adventures

We have limited openings in our after school adventures. Registration and calendars are due now.

Crafters Wanted

Crafters for our WCC Annual Autumn Craft Show Saturday, Oct. 20: spaces still available. For more information, call Bonnie 882-8230.

Zumbatomic

Ages 4 to 12, starts Monday, Oct. 1 from 4 to 4:30 p.m. Call the center for details.

Fitness Classes

Get up and Move Weight Loss Challenge – Next session begins in October. Hall’s Olympic Martial Arts Center is offering this program at the Wiscasset Community Center. New class begins every six weeks, three-team challenge.

WCC Fitness Punch Card – Includes Zumba, Wake-up Call, and Step it Up, Evening Water Aerobics, Hall’s Workouts Wednesdays and Fridays (in October), Yoga with Murielle, and introducing Tai Chi to our fitness pass. Enjoy the convenience of choosing your classes with no expiration date. Call for more details.

Zumba – Zumba with Debbie will be held at the WCC gym Wednesdays, from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.; Thursdays from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., instructor Denise Click, Wiscasset Community Center; and Saturday, 8:30 to 9:30 a.m., Wiscasset Community Center, instructor Denise Click. Pre-registration rates and walk-in rates are available. For more details, call the front desk.

Yoga – Wednesdays, 7:45 to 9 a.m., instructor Murielle Corwin. Wake-up Call – Monday and Friday mornings 5:30 to 6:30 a.m. This is a multifaceted cardio step class with Lorna Weber.

Step-it up – Wednesday evenings 6 to 7 p.m., WCC gym with Lorna

Karate – Mondays, Little Ninjas 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.; Tao Karate 5:45 to 6:45 p.m.; Friday evening combo, 5 to 6 p.m.

Gymnastics – New session meets on Tuesdays from September 18 through December 4. Flip for Tots (ages 3 to 5), 4:30 to 5:15 p.m.; Flying Kids: (ages 5 to 7), 5:15 to 6 p.m.; and Tumbling Kids (ages 8 to 12), 6 to 7 p.m.

Pool Programs

Monday Morning Splash and Friday Fun Splash – These programs are especially designed for preschool children 3 to 6 years old. This program is designed to introduce the beginning swimming skills in a fun-filled environment. The young swimmers will be introduced, through fun and games, on how to get their faces wet, go under the water, float on their front and back, and much more. Parents are welcome to sit poolside and watch their little swimmers learn, play and make friends in the comforts of our warm pool. The focus is to build a love for swimming. Program offered on Monday mornings, from 9:30 to 10:15 a.m. and Friday mornings, from 9:30 to 10:15 a.m.

Red Cross Swim Lessons – We offer year-round swim lessons for ages four years and older. Our W.S.I. certified instructors are eager to work with your child. Also available are private and semi-private lessons.

Water Aerobics – Morning Aerobics meets Monday through Friday, from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m.

The Lady Wolverines soccer team is off to a 3-1-1 start this season.  Wiscasset has posted wins against Carrabec, Mt. Valley, and Madison. They lost to Dirigo and tied with St. Dom.

Coach Duane Goud felt his team could compete with any team in the Mountain Valley Conference this year. “We build on confidence every game,” he said.  

“The Dirigo loss was tough,” Goud said. But he was pleased with the tie with St. Dom, who is undefeated so far this season. Wiscasset will host Telstar for its homecoming game on Friday, Sept. 14.

Wiscasset 1, Madison 0

Kasey Cromwell’s score late in the first half was all Wiscasset needed to defeat Madison on September 5. Wiscasset’s Kayla Gordon had five saves.

Dirigo 1, Wiscasset 0

Dirigo’s Natalie Bolduc scored the only goal in the game late in the second half to beat the Wolverines. Kayla Gordon had 12 saves for Wiscasset on September 7.

Wiscasset 1, St. Dom 1

Alecia Faulkingham scored for Wiscasset. Kayla Gordon was credited with 15 saves.


Miranda McIntire moves the ball in Wiscasset’s double overtime game with St. Dom. KATHY ONORATO/Wiscasset Newspaper

While summer doesn’t officially end for for a few more days, the Labor Day holiday signified that summer is over for most of us. Wiscasset Harbor is a beautiful location for reflection and beauty at the start of this late summer day. 

Early morning at Wiscasset Harbor. GARY DOW/Boothbay Register

The Lady Wolverines (3-2-1) were shut out 2-0 by the undefeated Monmouth Mustangs (6-0) on Wednesday.  

The Mustangs goals both came in the first half. The first score came on a penalty kick by Kylie Kemp, which was award when a handball was called on Brianna Goud. Melissa Brassard scored the other goal for Monmouth.

Wiscasset’s Kayla Gordon had nine saves in the game. Adriane Gonzales had eight saves for Monmouth.

Wiscasset will host Telstar (1-3-1) for their homecoming game on Friday, Sept. 14 at 5:30 p.m. On Monday Sept. 17 they travel to Boothbay (1-5).  

Midfielder Miranda McIntire tries to move the ball against Monmouth defenders on Wednesday. Kathy Onorato/Wiscasset Newspaper

Positively Best Friends Dog Training has added more Saturday dog training classes.

Starting the morning of September 15, three new classes will be offered including Foundation (Beginner) Agility, Canine Good Citizen and Great Beginnings!

“Get Over It!” Foundation Agility class is a great introduction to the very fun sport of dog agility, where handlers lead dogs over jumps, through tunnels and over a variety of other obstacles. No previous experience needed. The class is open to all ages of dogs and handlers.

The “We’re Certifiable!” Canine Good Citizen (CGC) class is for students who wish to prepare for the American Kennel Club CGC certification evaluation in basic good manners like walking nicely on a leash, greeting strangers and walking through crowds.

At the end of the class, the student may choose to be evaluated for the CGC certification or just use the class for further practice of good community dog skills.

“Great Beginnings!” is a great follow-up to “Good Pup!” or as a stand alone class for dogs over 20 weeks old. The class focuses on all the essential behaviors of walking nicely on a loose leash, sit, down, stay and come.

This is the ideal starter class for the family dog, for the first time dog owner or the seasoned trainer and is the foundation for many of the other classes offered by Positively Best Friends.

Positively Best Friends is Midcoast Maine’s premier dog training facility. Located just minutes from Route 1 on the Boothbay Road (Route 27) in Edgecomb, with a spacious indoor training area and nationally certified instructors, Positively Best Friends is committed to providing people and their dogs a positive educational experience in a fun and relaxed environment.

Call 882-PAWS (882-7297) or email info@positivelybestfriends.com for more information or to register. Space is limited. Also visit us on the Web at www.positivelybestfriends.com.

Anyone strolling through Cozy Harbor in Southport recently has likely stopped dead in their tracks, entranced and perplexed by the bizarre spectacle seen from the shore.

Moored among the lobster boats and pleasure yachts is a dazzling sight that looks like it sailed straight out of the Kevin Costner film “Water World.”

“Oh sure, that’s Mike Lewis’,” said Southport General Store Owner Oliver Cusano when asked about the “unique vessel.” Cusano's quick reply assured me that the island community was well aware of the artist’s eccentricities.

Stear Clear

Upon closer examination of Lewis’s floating artwork, I noticed the ship is actually made of parts from several different boats: two canoes fastened with a wooden frame form a catamaran hull, and mounted on the deck are three carbon fiber windsurfing masts.

A giant teddy bear wielding a ski pole sits in a hammock stretched out on the starboard aft. Combined with the flamingo perched atop his shoulder, the bear seems perfectly ready to fend off swashbuckling foe.

The rest of the ship overflows with similar peculiarities. A carved sperm whale painted with registration numbers sits at the bow below a spinning purple whirligig. A flamboyant beach umbrella hangs over the hammock – to provide shade? Wrong.

“That’s my spinnaker,” Lewis said. He explained that its main function is to attract wind.

As they sailed around it, all the children from the Southport Yacht Club told Lewis he had the coolest boat in the harbor. Some giggled, enchanted by the miniature cannon positioned on the bow.

“The little kids there, they look at me at me and I say (to them), ‘Remember this. When you get old, you can always have a pirate ship.’”

A wooden sign with the ship’s brazen name, Stear Clear, seemed to demand respect from day-trippers puttering around the harbor.

What about the name? Lewis said that after the initial launch he asked a lobsterman friend of his if he had seen the boat. “And he’s like ‘you know what, I steered clear of that. I didn’t want people to think that it belonged to me, or that I had anything to do with it.’”

The most menacing feature, however, is not the ship’s name or that the whole boat is held together with just pot buoy line. It's the two deer skulls propped atop the bowsprits, grinning as if to cast a wicked omen on this year’s hunting season.

Who is Mike Lewis?

Mike Lewis is not your typical sailor.

Lewis is not a run-of-the-mill artist who paints pretty little gift shop lighthouses. He’s more like the uncle your parents warned you about – the one who played with dynamite as a kid.

Lewis referred to himself as a folk artist. “It’s what they call outsider art,” he said. Building the boat was a creative departure from his typical 16-hour days as an artist who does wood carving, stonework, glasswork and painting.

People around town might know Lewis by his distinct art featuring whales with toothy grins and pretty mermaids, which adorn doorways of many businesses in the region.

Others might recognize him by the unusual truck he drives around, which is covered in an array of multicolored buoys and nautical do-hickeys on the back of the cap.

A police officer once stopped Lewis to warn him of the visual hindrance he was causing. There had been some complaints from drivers worried that paraphernalia would fly off and hit people. “Well that should keep them on their toes,” Lewis said in response.

Lewis’ original intention for building what he calls “Boothbay’s only three-master schooner” was to enter it into the Windjammer Day’s parade this past June. He stayed up all night working on the vessel. By 2 p.m. the next day the parade was over and the boat had yet to be launched.

Then came the Shipyard Cup. “I wanted to get out there. With my backup motor and sailing downwind I could probably pass one of those boats,” he said. “I wanted to go by and say, ‘Is that what you get for (2.5) million dollars?’”

Despite the mounting anticipation, Steer Clear has yet to take its maiden voyage. Before the frost comes, Lewis is planning what he calls the “Southport to Linekin Bay Expedition.”

“I’ve got a friend over in Linekin Bay. I told him I got a yacht and I want to bring it over and tie it to his dock. He kind of knows me, but he isn’t really aware of what I’ve been working on,” Lewis said.

Public opinion has been positive toward Lewis’ labor of love. People often give him a thumbs-up as they pass by.

“Folks often ask me, where did you bring that up from? And I tell them, ‘Oh I brought it up from Hades,”’ Lewis said with a mischievous grin.

Having grown up in Key West, Fla., Lewis has worked on, in, and around all of types of vessels.

At an early age, he learned shipbuilding skills by helping his father. He sailed from Key West to Tampa and worked building lobster boats and eventually his own sailboat.

Building Stear Clear provided Lewis with an entertaining side project. “It’s something to take my mind off doing my art, and it gets me out on the water,” he said.

“I like to just row over there and see the expressions on the people at the restaurant, like ‘I don’t know what the hell that is.’”

People who don’t understand Lewis seldom understand his art.

“If it doesn’t make you smile or laugh, you ain’t getting it,” Lewis said.

Lewis recalled an incident that happened not too long ago on a private boat launch, one that required non-members to make a donation for use of the dock.

“I had my boat stuck over there at low tide. I couldn’t get it out, and somebody approached me in a blue blazer and asked me if I was a member. I said, ‘No.’ The guy is looking at me, and then at my boat. (It was an old motorboat rigged up with funky sails). “So then he asked me, ‘Exactly what kind of boat is this?’ I said this is the best kind – the kind that floats. Well that sent him stomping off to the parking lot.”

In a world of typical characters--Starbucks-crazed soccer moms, trucker-hat hipsters and Tweeting tweens--it is comforting to know people like Lewis still exist.

True free spirits like Lewis live immersed in their creations, unafraid to make the world a weird and beautiful place – one mermaid at time.


Mike Lewis' vessel, "Stear Clear," is a sight to behold in Cozy Harbor. RYAN LEIGHTON/Boothbay Register

The Midcoast United U9 soccer team lost it first game of the season 2-1 to Yarmouth at the Boothbay Community Ballfield on August 26. Jack Duncan scored Midcoast's goal in the first half. Duncan and Nathaniel Jewett had shots on goal to try and tie the game in the second half but did not get the ball past the Yarmouth goalie.

Midcoast defeated Gray-New Gloucester in Gray, 3-1, on September 9. Duncan scored two first-half goals and a third goal in the second half. G-NG's goal came in the second half.

The team is comprised of Boothbay and Wiscasset players and has worked hard to improve. The team is coached by Paul Foley of Wiscasset and he is assisted by Darrell Gudroe of Boothbay.

Midcoast will travel to Yarmouth on Sunday, Sept. 16 at 3:45 p.m. for the next game.

Midcoast United U9 soccer team. From left, front row: Andrew Gudroe; Nathaniel Jewett; Gavin Loupe. Middle row: Jack Duncan; Aiden Foley; Garrett Cossette. Back row: coaches Darrell Gudroe and Paul Foley. Courtesy of Jean Duncan

On page 20 of the October 2012 issue of Runner's World, Dr. Aquilino Alamo of Boothbay is recognized for his 45-mile run during the 50th annual Windjammer Days held in June.

The Jammers and Joggers run, where long-time distance runner Alamo raced the schooner Timberwind from Rockport to Boothbay Harbor as a way of promoting the festival, is mentioned with a photo and brief article in the current issue of the magazine.

In the article, Alamo said, “ … My goal was to promote an active lifestyle; few people run here.”
 

Dr. Aquilino Alamo smiles after finishing the Jammers and Joggers race in the pouring rain on June 25. JOHN EDWARDS/Boothbay Register

Not long ago many people referred to them as wild canaries. Maybe some folks still do. We like to call them “potato chip birds.” But the official name given to these little yellow birds by the American Ornithologists’ Union is the American goldfinch.

The reason we call them “potato chip birds” is not because they are golden-yellow like a potato chip but because of the common call they give when in they are in flight, a high, tinkling “potato-chip, potato-chip.”

Their call isn’t the only thing that makes the American goldfinch interesting. They also have the curious habit of flying in a distinctive oscillating pattern (a flight pattern incidentally shared with most woodpeckers), dipping down and back up again over and over, often repeating the phrase “potato-chip” on the upswing of each oscillation.

But there’s more that makes the American goldfinch unique.

In August and September, when most birds have long finished nesting and migrants are heading south for the winter, goldfinches are in the midst of nesting and feeding young.

Just last week we watched a female American goldfinch feed two young that had left the nest within the last week or so.

When raising their young, almost all birds feed their rapidly growing fledglings a very high protein diet. In songbirds that typically means lots of newly hatched insects. Those insects are usually at their peak in our area in June. Those species have timed their reproductive efforts so that they are feeding their young at the peak of abundance of newly hatched and often soft-bodied insects.

But not the American goldfinch.

“Potato chip birds” feed their young on seeds, timing their nesting so that they can take advantage of the burst of tiny seeds that abound in late summer and early fall from a myriad of wildflowers.

In the late summer, family groups of American goldfinches form flocks that move south together as a group. Some stay for the winter. Others move farther, even as far as Florida and Mexico.

These flocks usually range from 10 to 30 or so birds. However, in the spring the size of the flocks can reach surprising numbers. A few years ago in early spring, we came across a flock of hundreds of birds in central Florida, all singing and chattering at the same time as they prepared to head north to breed.

But before settling into nest, they first enjoy the glorious Maine summer months. Most of us can probably appreciate that!


Dr. Jeff Wells is the senior scientist for the Boreal Songbird Initiative. During his time at the famed Cornell Lab of Ornithology and as the Audubon Society's national bird conservation director, Dr. Wells earned a reputation as one of the nation's leading bird experts and conservation biologists. Jeff's grandfather, the late John Chase, was a columnist for the Boothbay Register for many years. Allison Childs Wells, also formerly of the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, is a widely published natural history writer and a senior director at the Natural Resources Council of Maine. Together, they have been writing and teaching people about birds for decades. The Maine natives are authors of the highly acclaimed book, Maine's Favorite Birds.

An American Goldfinch. Courtesy of Kirk Rogers.

This past week Story Time featured three picture books about the autumn occurrence of caterpillars turning into moths or butterflies. “Don’t Worry Bear” by Greg Foley introduced the wonder of metamorphosis to young readers.

A second picture book, Robert O. Bruel’s “Bob and Otto,” presented the similar theme through the relationship between two friends. 

When caterpillar Bob disappeared up a tree and reappeared much later with beautiful wings that allow him to fly, Otto the worm became sad. He thought if he had climbed a tree instead of heading underground and digging tunnels, he too might have grown wings.

Bob explained that Otto had done important work by digging those tunnels to make the tree healthy and able to grow its leaves … friends helping friends.

In another book, Arabella found a caterpillar, fed it, watched it build a “tent” around itself and weeks later emerge as beautiful butterfly. This is the storybook by Clare Jarrett, “Arabella Miller’s Tine Caterpillar.”

Story Time is on Thursdays at 10:30 a.m. in the Children’s Room of the Wiscasset Public Library. All are welcome.

J.J. and Grace find a new place to display their library stickers. Rumor has it that it was J.J.’s idea. Courtesy of Wiscasset Public Library

Women and the Woods

Women and the Woods is a whole day workshop on October 10, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., which is co-sponsored by MOFGA and Maine Farmland Trust. The program is designed to inform and inspire women woodland owners on the care and management of their forestland. Fee is $50 and includes lunch.

Timber framing workshop

A timber framing workshop will be held September 27-30. This is a hands-on setting where participants will experience the entire process from felling the trees to the finished product. Timber framing will be taught by Bob Lear, who has 24 years of timber framing experience. Program cost is $450 for HVNC, SWOAM and MOFGA supporters, $500 for all others. Some MOFGA scholarships available, contact amarshall@mofga.org. Includes breakfast and lunch by The Alna Store. No experience necessary.

Half Marathon Trail Run

Join us Sunday, Oct. 14 at 9 a.m. for Race thru the Woods. Explore the beautiful mix of single and double-track trails over rolling terrain in this challenging race course. Enjoy hot food around the fire pit after the race. Registration fee is $30 ($40 after October 1). It's free for HVNC members. All proceeds will support the maintenance of HVNC trails and educational programs.

The Hidden Valley Nature Center is located at 131 Egypt Road in Jefferson. For more information, visit www.hvnc.org or call 586-6752.


Both the Wiscasset High School boys’ and girls’ soccer teams were victorious in their homecoming games with Telstar on Friday, Sept. 14.

Maeve Carlson, Alecia Faulkingham and Kasey Cromwell each had a goal in girls’ 3-0 win. Maddy Wehrle and Shania Marr each had an assist in the game.  Wiscasset dominated the ball outshooting Telstar 17-2.

J.D. Souza scored four times to lead the boys in their 7-2 homecoming win. Mason Whitaker, Bryscon Grover and Dale Peaslee each had a goal apiece.

Brianna Goud heads the ball in the Wolverines 3 to 0 homecomingwin over Telstar on Friday. KATHY ONORATO/Wiscasset Newspaper

Sarah Hanley’s three second half goals led Wiscasset in a 6 to 0 win over Boothbay on Monday, Sept.17. Kasey Cromwell, Shania Marr and Maddy Wehrle  all added goals for the Wolverines. Kayla Gordon had nine saves including one off a penalty kick in the first half. Wiscasset had 18 shots on goal to Boothbay’s nine.

“Our mid-fielders played well tonight,” Coach Duane Goud said. “Kayla Gordon also had an awesome game,” he said.

Wiscasset, now 5-2-1 on the season, will travel to Mt. Abram (3-2-1) on Friday for a 7 p.m. start.

Defender Hannah Foye heads the ball past a Boothbay player on September 17. KATHY ONORATO/Wiscasset Newspaper

J. D. Souza scored four times to lead Wiscasset to a 7-2 homecoming win over Telstar on September 14.

Wiscasset’s Bryson Grover headed in the first goal of the game to give Wiscasset an early 1-0 lead. Seven minutes later, Souza scored to make it 2-0.

Telstar’s Nic Conrad answered with a score and cut Wiscasset’s lead in half. With four minutes remaining in the first half Souza scored again off a feed from Andrew Corson. Not to be out-done, Conrad scored his second goal of the half for Telstar off a restart ball, 20 yards out, to make the game 3-2 at the half.

The Wolverines scored four times in the second half while shutting down the Rebels. Mason Whitaker scored on an assist by Dale Peaslee. Logan Grover and Bryson Grover assisted Souza on his third and fourth goals. Dale Peaslee, assisted by Souza, scored the seventh goal for Wiscasset. The Wolverines improve to 3-2-1 on the season.

“They started a little slow tonight but picked up their play in the second half. Seniors Zach Ellison and Ryan Hanley were keys along with junior Logan Grover to help the younger players out,” Coach Wayne Benn said.

Telstar’s Dylan Helms had nine saves and Nate Mills recorded four saves for Wiscasset.

Fall/Winter Hours

Monday to Thursday, 5 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Friday, 5 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Saturday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.; and Sunday, 1 to 5 p.m. (Pool closes at 8:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 7 p.m. on Friday)

After School Adventures

We have limited openings in our after school adventures. Registration and calendars are due now.

Crafters wanted

Crafter for our WCC Annual Autumn Craft Show Saturday, Oct. 20. Spaces still available. For more information, call Bonnie 882-8230.

Zumbatomic

Ages four to 12, starts Monday, Oct. 1, 4 to 4:30 p.m. Call for details.

Scarecrow Festival

Saturday, Oct. 13, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Wiscasset Municipal Building. Fun for the whole family Included in this year’s festival will be Touch the Truck, Child Identification Program (CHIPS), After School Adventures’ bake sale, miniature pony cart rides, pumpkin painting, face painting, bouncy house, and of course scarecrow making. Concessions and hot soups from Sarah’s Cafe will be available.

For more details, call 882-8230. (Please help us by donating your old clothes and hats for this year’s scarecrow event. Donation bins are located in the front lobby at the Wiscasset Community Center.)

Fitness classes

Get up and Move Weight Loss Challenge – Next session to be announced.

Hall’s Olympic Martial Arts Center is offering this program at the Wiscasset Community Center. New class begins every six weeks, three-team challenge.

WCC Fitness Punch Card – Includes Zumba, Wake-up Call, and Step it Up, Evening Water Aerobics, Hall’s Workouts Wednesday and Friday (TBA), Yoga with Murielle, and introducing Tai Chi to our fitness pass. Enjoy the convenience of choosing your classes with no expiration date. Call for more details.

Zumba – Zumba with Debbie will be held at the Wiscasset Primary school Wednesday 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.; Thursdays, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., instructor Denise Click, Wiscasset Community Center; and Saturday, 8:30 to 9:30 a.m., Wiscasset Community Center, instructor Denise Click. Pre-registration rates and walk-in rates are available. For more details, call the front desk.

Yoga – Wednesdays, 7:45 to 9 a.m., instructor Murielle Corwin. Wake-up Call – Monday and Friday mornings 5:30 to 6:30 a.m. This is a multifaceted cardio step class with Lorna Weber at WWC Gym.

Step-it up – Wednesday evenings 6 to 7 p.m., WCC gym with Lorna

Karate – Mondays, Little Ninjas 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.; Tao Karate 5:45 to 6:45 p.m.; Friday evening combo, 5 to 6 p.m.

Gymnastics – New session meets on Tuesdays from September 18 through December 4. Flip for Tots (ages 3 to 5), 4:30 to 5:15 p.m.; Flying Kids: (ages five to seven), 5:15 to 6 p.m.; and Tumbling Kids (ages eight to 12), 6 to 7 p.m.

Pool Programs

Monday Morning Splash and Friday Fun Splash – These programs are especially designed for preschool children three to six years old. This program is designed to introduce the beginning swimming skills in a fun-filled environment. The young swimmers will be introduced through fun and games, how to get their face wet, go under the water, float on their front and back, and much more. Parents are welcome to sit poolside and watch their little swimmers learn, play and make friends in the comforts of our warm pool. The focus is to build a love for swimming. Program offered on Monday mornings 9:30 to 10:15 a.m. and Friday mornings from 9:30 to 10:15 a.m.

Red Cross Swim Lessons – We offer year-round swim lessons for ages four years and older. Our W.S.I. certified instructors are eager to work with your child. Also available are private and semi-private lessons.

Water Aerobics – Morning Aerobics meets Monday through Friday 8:30 to 9:30 a.m.

A health issue kept me home last Thursday evening but a report from Greg and Donna Muzzy has indicated that there was a good turnout with abundant delicacies to fatten us up. There will be a few more such parties before the gates are closed for 2012. 

The high school sailing club, sponsored by Boothbay Harbor Yacht Club, was out there honing their sailing skills last Thursday afternoon.  There are about ten to 12 students taking advantage of this activity which is open to any region high school student. 

Time spent on our magnificent waters is a worthwhile lifetime activity. When we are young, sporting activity centers around baseball, field hockey etc. and some of us continue into our middle years. 

I am a sailing devotee, but whatever vehicle one prefers, time on the water is good for your soul and gives us a shot at a long happy life, though nothing is guaranteed. 

I read with some sadness of the death of Harry Leach. Harry died at age 95. His life resume included a few years as Fleet Captain at Boothbay Harbor Yacht Club. 

I’ve heard stories of the wonderful way Harry and his wife Sally lead Boothbay Harbor Yacht Club boats on summer cruises down east. Their vessel was a cruising sailboat named Sally Forth. For those of us who knew him, he and Sally will be fondly remembered. 

Did sailing contribute to his long lifespan? I would like to believe so. So to Boothbay Harbor Yacht Club and other region parents and grandparents, encourage your younger set to take advantage of our Boothbay Harbor Yacht Club sailing opportunities which are open to all regional youngsters. 

Looking ahead to our rapidly shrinking season, the Annual Fall Work Day is scheduled for October 15 followed by our Fall Potluck Dinner. As we go to press, the coordinator of this event has not been announced. This notation may well prompt the information. 

To our new members this annual fall party and work day is not all work but more bittersweet, and you will think about it fondly all winter long. Our annual year begins on October 1. 

A board meeting is scheduled for early October including the new directors, committee chairs and our new Flag Officers. I believe the date is October 5 or 6. Notification will be forthcoming. 

Isn’t it depressing watching the evening news? The news reader starts with “Good Evening” and then proceeds to tell us why it isn’t.

Have you ever heard of geocaching? It’s a form of treasure hunting that combines technology with being outside. All you need is a handheld GPS or a GPS enabled cell phone and some sturdy hiking shoes to participate. 

Players try to locate hidden containers, called geocaches at specific GPS coordinates, which they find at www.geocaching.com.

The geocaches can be as small as a film canister or as large as an ammo box. Inside you will find a log book and small treasures left behind by previous players. If you take something from the cache, you must leave something of equal or greater value for someone else to discover.

While there are geocaches all over the world, Boothbay Region Land Trust maintains several right in our backyard that you can try to find right now! Geocaching is a great way to discover Boothbay Region Land Trust preserves while learning a little bit about them too. So what are you waiting for? Visit www.geocaching.com and search by location to get started.

Community Center schedule

Winter hours

Monday through Thursday, 5 a.m.-9 p.m.; Friday, 5 a.m.-8 p.m.; Saturday, 8 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sunday, 1-5 p.m. (Pool closes at 8:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 7 p.m. on Friday.)

Skiing

The Lost Valley learn to ski/snowboard or open skiing/riding program will run on Tuesday evenings from January 8 through February 12. Grades 4-8 can participate in the learn to ski or snowboard program.

Those in grade six and up may sign up for two hours of skiing/riding. The cost includes your lift ticket each week and transportation. Registration deadline is December 10. Space is limited to 28 participants, so sign up today.

Fitness programs

Hall’s Weight loss Challenge – Call for more information.

Wiscasset Community Center Pass Punch Card – Includes: Kickboxing, Cross Training Zumba, Wake-Up-Call and Step It Up, Evening Water Aerobics.

Cross Training – Monday, 5:45-6:45 p.m.

Kickboxing – Wednesdays, 5-6 a.m. 

Zumba – Wednesday, 4:30-5:30 p.m. (call for location with Debbie); pre-registration rates and walk in rates available; Thursday, 5:30 -6:30 p.m. Wiscasset Community Center with Denise; Saturday, 8:30-9:30 a.m., Wiscasset Community Center with Denise.

Wake-Up Call – Monday and Friday mornings, 5:30-6:30 a.m. WCC Gym with Lorna 

Step-It-Up – Wednesday evenings 6-7 p.m. WCC Gym. This class is a multifaceted cardio step class that will be led by Lorna Weber.

Yoga – Wednesday mornings, 7:45-9 a.m. 

Karate – Monday evenings: Little Ninjas 4:30-5:30 p.m. & Tao Karate 5:45-6:45 p.m.; Friday evenings combo 5-6 p.m. 

Zumbatonic – Will take place on the first Monday of each month for ages 4-12, 4-4:30 p.m. Walk in rates $5 and $6. Call for more information.

Gymnastics – Tuesdays starting in January. Flip for Tots, (Ages 3-5) 4:30-5:15 p.m.; Flying Kids, (Ages 5-7) 5:15-6 p.m.; and Tumbling Kids: (Ages 8-12) 6-7 p.m.

Red Cross swim lessons

The Wiscasset Community Center announces the American Red Cross Learn to Swim Program for the winter 2013. These programs are for children between the ages of four and fourteen. We are offering eight-week sessions, which meet on different days and times. 

W.S.I. certified and experienced swim instructors Lori LaPointe, Heather Hodgdon, Ryan Hanley, Jaja Martin and Sarah Currier will be leading the lessons with an enthusiastic staff. Our family Aquatic Center makes the learning experience both safe and fun. In addition, our pool design aids in comforting both swimmers and non-swimmers alike. All classes are limited in size, so register now before classes fill up. The cost is $37 for Wiscasset Community Center members and $54 for non-members

Swim lesson schedule

Session A (Monday Splash) – Jan. 14-March 4, Level 1 and 2, 9:30-10:15 a.m.

Session A (Friday Splash) – Jan. 4-Feb. 22, Level 1 and 2, 9:30-10:15 a.m.

Session B (Tuesday) – Jan. 15-March 5, Level 1, 2 and 3, 3:30-4:15 p.m.; Level 4, 5 and 6, 4:15-5 p.m. 

Session C (Thursdays) – Jan. 10-Feb. 28, Level 1 and 2, 3:30-4:15 p.m.; Level 3 and 4, 4:15-5 p.m.

Session D (Saturdays) – Jan. 12-March 2, Level 4+, 5 and 6, 8:15-9 a.m.; Level 3 and 4, 9-9:45 a.m.; Level 1 and 2, 9:45-10:30 a.m.

Adult swim lessons

The Adult Learn to Swim program will be held Friday mornings, January 4 through February 22 from 8 to 8:30. 

This program is designed to help swimmers of all abilities. This class will also benefit that individual needing help with breath control and endurance and offer skills for those looking for boat safety. Our Certified Swim Instructor will help participants learn to swim through positive feedback and encouragement. The cost is $55 for members and $75 for non-members. Preregistration is required prior to the first class. Space is available on a first come first serve basis.

Maine Masters swimming workout

Maine Masters swimming is open to any athlete age 18 and over, male or female looking for a different approach to fitness. Maine Masters include individuals of all abilities, from fitness and lap swimmers to triathletes and competitively minded swimmers. Maine Masters maintains no criteria, nor imposes any requirements, based on time or technique for membership. Come workout and meet local competitive swimmers. Maine Masters meets on Monday and Wednesdays from 5:15 to 6:15 p.m. and on Saturdays from 8 to 9 a.m. There is no charge for Wiscasset Community Center members, non-members pay $10 per swim.

Parent-toddler swim lessons

Parent/toddler swim lessons are specially designed for infants or toddlers and their parents. This program is catered for children between 6 months to 4 years of age. Our focus is getting young children comfortable with the water through games and play. Parents will be introduced to proper holds, and creative approach to various aquatic skills. An adult must accompany each swimmer. The cost of the eight-week session is $32 for members and $45 non-members

Class schedule

Tuesdays, Jan. 15-March 5, 2013 – instruction 9:30-10 a.m.; open swim 10 to 10:30 a.m.
Saturdays, Jan. 12-March 2, 2013 – instruction 10:30-11 a.m.; open swim 11 to 11:30 a.m.

Aerobics in the water

Water aerobics is our most popular exercise program for adults. Our participants are both male and female. This program is for participants of all swimming abilities and fitness levels. We encourage participants to work at their own pace. 

The Wiscasset Community Center offers two water aerobics classes. Waterworks is scheduled for Monday through Friday mornings 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. Aqua Exercise is offered on other is held Monday evenings from 6 to 7 p.m. Both programs are instructed by certified water aerobics instructors. This program uses the water’s natural resistance, buoyancy, and therapeutic qualities to work wonders trimming and toning the body, at the same time, refreshes and relaxes the participant emotionally. 

This program also offers aerobic benefits with attention to breathing and vigorous movements to help strengthen the lungs, along with making use of skills similar to those used in calisthenics, gymnastics, dance, and swimming to improve coordination. 

The WCC offers one free pass to anyone interested in trying out the water aerobics class for the first time. Any questions please call Lori LaPointe at 207-882-8230.

Pool programs

Red Cross swim lessons

The Wiscasset Community Center's American Red Cross Learn to Swim Programs for the winter 2013 begin in January.

These programs are for children between the ages of four and 14. We are offering 8-week sessions, which meet on different days and times.

W.S.I. certified and experienced swim instructors Lori LaPointe, Heather Hodgdon, Ryan Hanley, Jaja Martin and Sarah Currier will be leading the lessons with an enthusiastic staff.

The family Aquatic Center makes the learning experience both safe and fun. In addition, our pool design aids in comforting both swimmers and non-swimmers alike.

All classes are limited in size, so register now before classes fill up. The cost is $37 for Wiscasset Community Center members and $54 for non-members.

Swim lesson schedule

Session A (Monday Splash) – January 14 through March 4, Level 1 and 2, 9:30-10:15 a.m.

Session A (Friday Splash) – January 4 through February 22, Level 1 and 2, 9:30-10:15 a.m.

Session B (Tuesday) – January 15 through March 5, Level 1, 2 and 3, 3:30-4:15 p.m.; Level 4, 5 and 6, 4:15-5 p.m.

Session C (Thursdays) – January 10 through February 28, Level 1 and 2, 3:30-4:15 p.m.; Level 3 and 4, 4:15-5 p.m.

Session D (Saturdays) – January 12 through March 2, Level 4+, 5 and 6, 8:15-9 a.m.; Level 3 and 4, 9-9:45 a.m.; Level 1 and 2, 9:45-10:30 a.m.

Adult swim lessons

The Adult Learn to Swim program will be held Friday mornings, January 4 through February 22 from 8 to 8:30 p.m.

This program is designed to help swimmers of all abilities. This class will also benefit that individual needing help with breath control and endurance and offer skills for those looking for boat safety.

A Certified Swim Instructor will help participants learn to swim through positive feedback and encouragement.

The cost is $55 for members and $75 for non-members. Preregistration is required prior to the first class. Space is available on a first come first serve basis.

Maine Masters swimming workout

Maine Masters swimming is open to any athlete age 18 and over, male or female looking for a different approach to fitness.

Maine Masters include individuals of all abilities, from fitness and lap swimmers to triathletes and competitively minded swimmers.

Maine Masters maintains no criteria, nor imposes any requirements, based on time or technique for membership. Come workout and meet local competitive swimmers.

Maine Masters meets on Monday and Wednesdays from 5:15 to 6:15 p.m. and on Saturdays from 8 to 9 a.m. There is no charge for Wiscasset Community Center members, non-members pay $10 per swim.

Parent-toddler swim lessons

Parent/toddler swim lessons are specially designed for infants or toddlers and their parents. This program is catered for children between 6 months to 4 years of age.

The focus is getting young children comfortable with the water through games and play. Parents will be introduced to proper holds, and creative approach to various aquatic skills. An adult must accompany each swimmer. The cost of the 8-week session is $32 for members and $45 for nonmembers.

Class schedule

Tuesdays, January 15 through March 5, 2013 – instruction 9:30-10 a.m.; open swim 10-10:30 a.m.

Saturdays, Jan. 12 through March 2, 2013 – instruction 10:30-11 a.m.; open swim 11-11:30 a.m.

Aerobics in the water

Water aerobics is our most popular exercise program for adults. Our participants are both male and female. This program is for participants of all swimming abilities and fitness levels. We encourage participants to work at their own pace.

The Wiscasset Community Center offers two water aerobics classes. Waterworks is scheduled for Monday through Friday mornings 8:30 to 9:30 a.m.

Aqua Exercise is offered on other is held Monday evenings from 6-7 p.m. Both programs are instructed by certified water aerobics instructors. This program uses the water’s natural resistance, buoyancy, and therapeutic qualities to work wonders trimming and toning the body, at the same time, refreshes and relaxes the participant emotionally.

This program also offers aerobic benefits with attention to breathing and vigorous movements to help strengthen the lungs, along with making use of skills similar to those used in calisthenics, gymnastics, dance, and swimming to improve coordination. The WCC offers one free pass to anyone interested in trying out the water aerobics class for the first time.

Call Lori LaPointe at 207-882-8230 with questions.

  • 4064 views

The Pagan Moon, out of Trevett, motors into the Wiscasset Yacht Club after sailing up the Sheepscot River this past Saturday.

GARYDOW/Wiscasset Newspaper

If you've ever thought about taking a class or two at the Boothbay Region YMCA, there's a free pass waiting for you now through October 6. Pick up your individual pass at the front desk and ask for a tour. Or get right down to business and take a look at the Y's program booklet and find what interests you and/or your family.

The Y offers 40 wellness/fitness programs every week. Get your heart rate up and pounds down with aerobics (including low-impact); combine dance moves and exercise with Zumba, find flexibility and inner peace through yoga, work out in the fitness center using state-of-the-art equipment; try water walking and aqua arthritis therapy in the 25-yard swimming pool.

And as always, the Y offers swim classes for ages toddler through adult, including a parent-child class. If your child is already a swimmer and enjoys competition, there is always a place for him or her on the Dolphin swim team

Children's programs, including after school hours, include basketball field hockey, lacrosse, soccer, indoor floor hockey, gymnastics and traditional Tae Kwon Do. Kids with a flair for the dramatic can join the Y-Arts group for singing, dancing and acting and theater games. And, there are ballet, jazz, tap and contemporary dance classes.

Both adults and youth can pick up the racquet of their choice and sign up for tennis, racquetball or walleyball.

If you’ve wanted to glide across the dance floor like Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers ballroom dancing is for you. Or for something a bit more exotic there is belly dancing.

“Once people get involved in a program, they get into a groove,” Membership, Marketing and Child Enrichment Director Meagan Hamblett said.

Community and relationship building is part of the Y's mission. Currently 699 youth have Y memberships, either as an individual own or as a member of a family. This 2-week period is an opportunity for kids to come to the Y after school and see what the programming is like.

“We are a member based org, but when you talk about those four areas – if we don't reach you we are not reaching our mission,” Executive Director Andy Hamblett said.

“The classes for most people are what motivates them. And for procrastinators like myself, once you get into it, part of the experience is the reinforcement you get from everyone around you.”

One primary age group the Y would like to reach are the young adults aged 18-25.

“They are the kids who grew up here, went to college or right into the workforce and we are not reaching as many of them as we want to making some healthy choices. Looking into having dodge ball or walleyball nights,” Andy Hamblett said.

“We hope to partner with local employers to find creative ways to reach out to this age group. We'd also like to hear from the young adults; find out what they would like to see here – programming and what times of the day work best for them,” he said.

Membership opportunities

This is the third year the Y has offered Try the Y for Free, but the first time in the fall. This is for non-members and former members. The 2-week period began on September 24.

Anyone purchasing a Y membership through October 6 will not have to pay the $40 activation fee and their name will be entered into a drawing for one of three prizes: an annual Y membership; a free 7-week program session; and a 2-hour pool party.

If you miss the 2-week free period, but you purchase a membership by Tuesday, Oct. 9, you can still have your name entered for a chance to win one of the three prizes. The drawing will be on Wednesday, Oct. 10.

Membership for all

The Y is a charitable organization that offers financial assistance through their Membership For All program. The program removes financial barriers via a sliding-scale, monthly payment program. Payments are made through automatic withdrawals.

Rachel Wallace, the Y's membership services and front desk director, how much a family will pay based only on one line item on the previous year's tax return.

To create the sliding scale, Meagan Hamblett sought out the median household income in the Boothbay region, which is $44,000 per year. Based on that amount anyone earning $44,001 and up pays the Y's regular annual membership fee. Reduced rates are broken down into four tiers: $44,000 to $34,001; $34,000 to $24,001; $24,000 to $14,001; and $14,000 and under. Once the income bracket is known, monthly payment is further based on whether the membership is for an individual or for a couple or a family.

For example, a family with a total income of between $24,001 and $34,000 would pay $35 per month; a senior couple, $33; a youth, $11; an adult, $38; young adult, $20;and senior (65 and over), $34.

Since the program's inception, there have been 48 new registrations and 22 existing members renewing memberships from full pay to Membership For All. Also, 12 memberships that had been using scholarships have converted to Membership For All. And there is still financial assistance through scholarships available for those who need it.

In addition to financial barriers, the Y has reached out by installing an elevator to make the entire facility accessible to all, added a universal locker room, and the facility is wheelchair accessible. Even in the pool as an aquatic wheelchair, which was acquired through partnership with Lincoln County Healthcare.

Field trips (Red Claw games), events like Freaky Friday, are upcoming and brainstorming is ongoing to develop new ways to meet the community's needs. Many new ideas being discussed will be realized November through December of this year.

Try the Y for free! Get your pass and more information at the Y at 261 Townsend Ave., across the street from Boothbay Region High School, in Boothbay Harbor. For more information, call 633-2855.

A complete listing of activities at the Boothbay Region YMCA can be viewed on www.brymca.org.

Come and join Zumba instructor Denise Click in a Zumbatomic class for kids ages four through 12 at Wiscasset Community Center, on Mondays, Oct. 1, 15, 22, and 29 (not Oct. 8,) from 4 to 4:30 p.m. The fee is $18 for members and $22 nonmembers. Walk in fees of $6 members, $7 non-member, minimum enrollment of six.

Zumbatomic fitness program for kids is a fusion of the Zumba program dance moves (Salsa, Hip Hop and more) and high octane work outs designed to let kids max out on fun and fitness all at the same time. Kids can’t wait to get into the groove.

The choreography and Zumbatomic music are 100 percent kid friendly with songs, dances and actions that promote the overall theme of a healthful lifestyle.

The Midcoast United soccer club capitalized on the beautiful fall weather last weekend with strong matches at home and away.

On September 23, the Midcoast U12 team scored a decisive 3-0 win against the Waterville Patriots at Clifford Field in Boothbay. After steady pressure by Midcoast, Will Shaffer scored their first goal on a cross into the upper corner.

With support from center defenseman Ella Spear, Simon Spear was able to chip the ball over the Patriot goal keeper for Midcoast’s second goal. Avery Stewart, Bayly Gaughan and Markus Russell all had shots on goal and Simon Spear scored the team’s third goal on a breakaway.

The strong defense of Patrick Gudroe, Ben Jacobs, Ethan Carmolli and keeper Timmy Chappelle succeeded in shutting out the Patriots.

Also at Clifford Field on Sunday, Midcoast’s U10 team battled the Waterville Patriots to a 2-2 tie. Midcoast started strong with Sam Sinabaldi scoring the first goal of the match. The Patriots squeezed by the Midcoast defenders Grady Suhr and Wyatt Pinkham to tie up the game 1-1.

Keeper Ben Pearce made some great saves in the first half keeping the Midcoast team in the game. With a nice pass by left wing Jake Fowler, Sam Sinabaldi was able to get another past the Patriot keeper to regain the lead.  

A breakaway by the Patriot team in the second half took out Midcoast keeper Ryan Russell, leaving the Midcoast defense vulnerable. The Patriots tied the match on breakaway that keeper Pearce was unable to stop. The clock ran out with neither team able to get ahead; the final score 2-2.

Midcoast United’s U9 soccer team secured a 5-2 win against Gray/New Gloucester on Sunday at Gray.  Jack Duncan went on a scoring spree in the first half, scoring three unanswered goals for Midcoast. Gray was finally able to break through Midcoast’s strong defense, ending the half at 3-1.

In the second half, Maddox Tilas scored his first for Midcoast, making it 4-1. Gray drove one more past the Midcoast keeper, bringing the score to 4-2. Duncan was able to get another one by the Gray keeper, landing Midcoast a strong 5-2 finish.

The Midcoast U12 team will play Sunday, Sept. 30 in Yarmouth (softball fields) at 1:30 p.m. U10 and U9 teams will play on their home turf (Boothbay or Wiscasset) time and location to be determined.

Sometimes the most special places are hidden right in plain sight. This is the case with Boothbay Region Land Trust’s Penny Lake Preserve, which stretches behind the businesses and homes of downtown Boothbay Harbor. 

The entrance to the preserve is just past the Hannaford supermarket, tucked in behind the bright red barn of the Carousel Theater. The large parking lot is marked with a kiosk, and a small gravel trail leads hikers into the peaceful fields and forests of the preserve.

Close to the school and the YMCA, Penny Lake is a favorite spot for groups of children to look for frogs and play in the woods. The older generations use the preserve as well, as some of the trails back right up to St. Andrews Village. Penny Lake is used year-round by hikers, runners and dog walkers and is often the only trail system that remains packed down in the winter snow. 

A scenic loop trail is bisected by an ADA-compliant path, which provides an easy walk and is wheelchair and stroller friendly. All of the trails lead to the 130-foot pedestrian bridge that spans the wetland known as Penny Lake. While the water isn’t inviting to swimmers, it is a great spot to watch wildlife. Two benches on the bridge encourage visitors to sit and watch turtles, beavers, muskrats and migrating birds. Occasionally moose can be seen.

While now a nature preserve, Penny Lake has been used by humans in the past. The late Lillian Gilbert Barlow recalled that Indian Americans used to camp on the property and sell trinkets during the blossoming tourist industry of the 1870s. 

Later on, but in the days before refrigeration, the preserve was home to a successful ice works. At the turn of the century, several acres of forest were cleared and converted into farmland. The fields and apple orchard are still visible to hikers today.

Penny Lake Preserve is the successful result of the effort of many individuals and organizations and the combining of several parcels and easements. The preserve consists of a 19-acre parcel purchased from the McKenney family, a ten-acre parcel donated by Tom and Richard Wilson, a 25-acre easement from St. Andrews Village, and trail easements donated by Steve and Richard Malcom as well as St. Andrews Village.

Penny Lake Preserve is dedicated to the memory of Jack Heald, whose family contributed substantially to the purchase of the McKenney property. Funds also were provided by the Land for Maine’s Future Program, U.S. Fish and Wildlife, Fields Pond Foundation and other generous donors. The ADA compliant trail was partially funded by Maine’s Department of Conservation Recreational Trails Program.

To visit Penny Lake Preserve, go .1 mile north of the Route 27 traffic light and turn west onto the dirt road at the Chamber of Commerce sign. Follow the dirt road back to the parking lot and kiosk. The preserve is also accessible from Emery Lane in St. Andrews Village. 

For more information about the preserve or the Boothbay Region Land Trust, visit www.bbrlt.org or stop by the office at 137 Townsend Ave. Boothbay Harbor.

The Wiscasset Community Center Unsinkables are “going for the gold” this season. Inspired by the Summer Olympics, the coaches hope the theme will encourage swimmers to try their best and reach for their own gold. Changes planned for the season are designed to make this more possible for more swimmers.

This year there are three levels of participation: the green, white and gold teams.  Green team members are ready to try competitive swimming, but may not have all of the strokes mastered. These members will practice twice weekly, Mondays and Wednesdays.  

White team members are those swimmers who are still developing skills, but can perform all four competitive strokes.  Practices for the white team take place Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.  

The gold team members are ready for the next level of competition. Focus will be on skill refinement and race strategy.  These members make a commitment to five practices a week, Monday through Friday.

The Unsinkables record holder Tim George returns this season to help Head Coach, Lori LaPointe and Assistant Coach, Lili Pugh on deck for the start of the 2012-2013 season on October 1.

For more information about the team, and how your swimmer can start their journey towards gold, call Lori LaPointe at 882-8230, visit www.wiscassetrec.com/programs/swim_team, or stop by the Wiscasset Community Center and pick up a brochure.

Unsinkables record holder Tim George will help coach the Unsinkables. Courtesy of Unsinkables

The Lady Wolverines’ three-game win streak came to end of Monday when Lisbon came to town and defeated Wiscasset 3-0.

Kayla Angelico’s two first half goals and teammate Loren Grant’s goal in the early going of the second half led the Greyhounds.

A tough loss for the Wolverines, moving them from third place to fifth place in the Western Maine Class C standings.

“We got beat to the ball a lot. (Lisbon was) winning the 50/50 balls,” Coach Duane Goud said. “Number 23 (Lisbon’s Angelico) was tough tonight,” he said.

Kayla Gordon had eight saves for Wiscasset.

Wiscasset will travel with the boys on Thursday to play a double header at Spruce Mountain.

Wiscasset 1, Mt. Abram 0

Wiscasset took the long trip to Salem Township on Friday for Mt. Abram’s homecoming game. Sarah Hanley’s early goal was all Wiscasset needed. Miranda McIntire was credited with an assist.

A Lisbon player takes a flip throw-in during Monday’s game in Wiscasset. KATHY ONORATO/Wiscasset Newspaper

Haitians traditionally eat pumpkin soup (soupe joumou) to bring good luck to their families and businesses, so it is no surprise that two local organizations working to bring educational and health progress (and a bit of good luck) to the people of Haiti will participate in the Info Zone at this year’s Pumpkinfest in Damariscotta.

The Haiti Fund of St. Andrew’s Church in Newcastle, and Konbit Santé (Haiti Health Partnership) based in Falmouth will jointly host an Info Zone table on Haiti and to promote their activities. Both organizations sell Haitian art and handicrafts to fund some of their activities and a representative sample will be available for purchase. Striking Haitian oil paintings, vodou inspired metal art, delicately painted hand scarves and imaginative and colorful smaller items will be on display.   

Information will also be available on the activities of the Haiti Fund and Konbit Santé in Haiti to promote educational development in the northwest Haitian towns of Gros Morne and Figaro and community health in Haiti’s second largest city, Cap Haitien. Stop by the table to learn about Haiti and its incredible history and the challenges it faces as well as upcoming art sales, the annual Lincoln County Ecumenical Committee’s Haiti Dinner in February and next spring’s annual state wide event, Maine Walks for Haiti which will take place in Portland.  

For further information, call Susan Meade at 563-8483 or Dean Curran, 380-5103.

Former Jefferson resident James Davis narrowly escaped elimination from the reality TV show “The Amazing Race.” In the September 30 premiere, Davis and his teammate, a fellow Chippendales performer, were briefly in first and then still ahead of some teams but had a hard time finding the last clue. They became the last of 10 teams making it to the next round.

The next leg in the race around the world will air October 7 on CBS.

Jane Koopman is the new T3 Outreach Coordinator for Outing Clubs. Koopman is an avid outdoorswoman and has years of experience in leading outdoor programs, shaping the ethics, ideals and interests she now values.

“I have had the pleasure of witnessing young wilderness trip participants grow and form lifelong friendships, observed the seeds of a wilderness ethic take root and watched kids push themselves past limits they never thought they could surpass,” Koopman said.

She has been a Wilderness Trip Leader and Camp Counselor at Chewonki, worked with the Kennebec Estuary Land Trust, trained with the National Outdoor Leadership School and taught various outdoor skills.  

As a former Bowdoin Outing Club leader, she appreciates the potential behind the new T3 College Mentors for Maine Teens initiative that she will lead in the coming year.

If you are an Outing Club Advisor, a member of a high school Club, or have thoughts of starting an Outing Club program at your school, please get in touch with Koopman.

Outing Club of the Month goes to Wiscasset High School

Two teachers, Shawn Carlson and Jenn Williams, started the Wiscasset Outing Club 11 years ago in 2001. After getting his WFR credentials, Ralph Keyes took on a leadership role which continues today with current co-advisor Cindy Carter.

The Club usually attracts a dozen or so active members each year who try to attend all outings.  In addition, they get many first timers for events like alpine skiing and indoor rock climbing.

Kathy Frizzell, a member of the Boothbay Register and Wiscasset Newspaper sales team, and Bill Dighton, brought this 808-pound moose home last week. Frizzell, who received her first moose hunting permit after 20 years of applying for the annual drawing, and Dighton, her sub-permittee, went hunting in Zone 4 on September 26 and Dighton shot the moose from about 200 yards away.

This bull moose's antlers were 48-inches wide and had 20 points. Courtesy of Marsha DeCosta

The 2012 Waldoboro First Baptist Church (WFBC) Men’s Basketball League will begin a new season this month with Open Gym play on October 23 and 30 at 6 p.m.

Because of the successes of previous years, WFBC Men’s Basketball League is the largest and best attended league of its kind and is expanding from 18 teams to 21 for the 2012 season.

In 2011 there were Division I and II and over 220 men participated. Due to the anticipated response for 2012, the league is expanding to three competitive divisions.

A round robin tournament will be held in early November to determine each teams' division. If you are interested in playing, having a team, or are returning with a team from a previous season, your team must participate in the round robin.

All men are welcome to play, join, or assemble a team if they are 18 years of age or older and out of high school.

As a family environment we encourage everyone to come out and support all the players.

Waldoboro First Baptist Church is located on Route 1 above Moody’s Diner.

For more information, call Vick Pease at 785-3003.

On Saturday, Oct. 13 and October 20 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., the Boothbay Railway Village is offering its third annual Pumpkin Patch Express. After purchasing a ticket, visitors will be whisked away via the steam train to then take a hayride to the Village Pumpkin Patch.

Once at the patch each attendee can pick their very own pumpkin. In addition, there will be our popular barrel train rides, apple cider and cookies, and a chance to paint your newly acquired pumpkin before returning back by hayride and train ride to the station.

The $12 ticket cost includes the train ride, the hay ride, cider and cookies and a pumpkin. New this year is a horse drawn wagon ride and of The museum hopes all will enjoy this fundraising event. Next chance to visit the Railway Village will be the popular Ghost Train event on October 26 and 27.

Tickets are available at www.railwayvillage.org. For more information, call the museum at 633-4727. The nonprofit Boothbay Railway Village is located on Route 27, 586 Wiscasset Road in Boothbay.

The Pumpkin Patch Express is happening at the Boothbay Railway Village Saturday, Oct. 13 and 20 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tickets are available at www.railwayvillage.org.

The Juniper Hill School plans to host the Schoolhouse Stomp, an autumn festival and contra dance, which will take place at 180 Golden Ridge Road in Alna on Friday, Oct. 12 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. All are welcome. Guests are invited to bring a picnic dinner beginning at 5:30 p.m. Contra dancing will begin at 6 p.m. and conclude at 8 p.m. There will be a bake sale and activities (in addition to dancing) for kids. The event will be outdoors (tented) so guests are encouraged to dress warmly. The cost is $10/family or $5/individual (all proceeds go to support the school). The music and contra dancing will be provided by Derek DeGeer and The Hootenanny Band.

Juniper Hill School is a place-based, pre- and elementary school in Alna on Golden Ridge Road, serving four to eight year olds (pre-K through second grade) in 2012-2013. Founded in the fall of 2011, Juniper Hill will add a grade each subsequent year, culminating in a pre-K through eighth grade school.  

Juniper Hill School is continuing to accept enrollment applications in all programs, including a five-day school program, a three-day pre- and school program, and two single-day Nature Immersion programs for preschool and homeschooled children.

Using an integrated curriculum, immersion in the natural world, and social understanding, the School strives to create peaceful, creative, loving children who are becoming masters of their own learning and actively helping to make their community—and the world—a better place.

Juniper Hill School accepts donations to help support the School and its mission. For more information, visit www.juniperhillschool.org, email info@juniperhillschool.org, or call 586-5711.

The autumn festival is planned for Friday, Oct. 12 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Courtesy of Juniper Hill School

Balancing apples on one’s head is not easy. Counting apples is easier. Theo LeSieg's “Ten Apples Up On Top”was the featured book in the Children’s Room of the Wiscasset Public Library this past week at Story Time.

The young audience counted the apples on the tiger, lion and dog’s heads as we read the book. After the reading and counting was completed, the youngsters drew and colored apples on their own pictures of characters in the book.

Story Time is each Thursday at 10:30 a.m. All are welcomed.

Owen checks out the newly acquired barn and farm animals in the Children’s Room of the Wiscasset Public Library. The barn was a gift from Papa Geppetto’s Workshop on Front Street in Bath.

Midcoast United’s U12 team beat the Seacoast Dragons, 4-1 October 14 in Wiscasset. Markus Russell scored Midcoast's first goal on a nice cross from defender Ben Jacobs. Will Shaffer then made the score 2-0 on a penalty kick. Bayly Gaughan scored the third goal, his first, with an assist by midfielder Markus Russell, ending the first half with a 3-0 Midcoast lead. Keeping his head in the game, goal keeper Timmy Chappell made five saves.

On an indirect kick with a touch from Shaffer, midfielder Simon Spear scored the fourth goal for Midcoast. In slippery conditions, Midcoast keeper Chappelle was ultimately unable to hold on to his shut out. Seacoast scored their only goal in the last minute of play, ending the game with a 4-1 Midcoast victory.

Midcoast United finished the season in the top half and moves on to the playoffs on October 20-21. For more information or a schedule of play, go to www.soccermaine.com.

Midcoast United’s U10 soccer team ended its regular season with a 2-0 win over Yarmouth. Goalies Ryan Russell and Ben Pearce shared goaltending duties and the shutout.

Sam Sinabaldi scored two goals, with assists by the other Midcoast forwards, Jake Fowler, Riley Savoie, Henry Pinkham and Jack Duncan. Grady Suhr played excellent defense, but Kaleb Ames’ outstanding play was the deciding factor’s in Midcoast’s win.

Coach Russell said, “Kaleb’s ability to play both forward and defense was the key to the victory today.”

Midcoast United's U9 soccer club lost to Freeport 5-2 in Wiscasset on Sunday. The game got off to a strong start with Andrew Gudroe in Midcoast’s goal making great saves. Freeport scored the first goal of the game midway through the first half, which was quickly answered by Midcoast’s Jack Duncan, ending the first half at 1-1.

The Midcoast team played well together with good passing and communication. Freeport scored its second goal squeezing through Midcoast's tough defense early in the second half. Once again Duncan retaliated, scoring Midcoast’s second goal, assisted by Maddox Tilas. Aden Foley was in the Midcoast goal for the second half and worked hard under intense pressure. Freeport snuck three more past him the second half, ending the match at 5-2.

Midcoast United U9 and U10 will play their final matches of the fall season next Sunday, October 21 at a soccer tournament in Waterville.

Midcoast United's U9 (9-year-old and under) soccer club hosted Freeport in Wiscasset this past Sunday. Freeport took the win with a final score of 5-2.

The game got off to a strong start with Andrew Gudroe in the goal making great saves.

Freeport scored the first goal of the game midway through the first half, which was quickly answered by our own Jack Duncan, bringing the first half score to 1-1.

The United team played well together with passing and communication and showing great teamwork. Freeport scored their second goal through Midcoast’s tough defense early in the second half, again quickly followed by Duncan's second goal, assisted by Maddox Tilas.

Aden Foley was in the United goal for the second half and worked hard to keep the Freeport team from scoring.

This weekend, October 19, 20 and 21, Maine Maritime Museum and Sea Scout Ship 243, along with Boy Scout Troop 254 from Warren, will host the Boy Scouts’ Downeast District Fall Camporee on the grounds of the Maritime Museum in Bath. The Camporee will bring together Boy Scout and Sea Scout groups from all over the Midcoast region for a weekend of nautical education, exploration and fun.

It’s appropriate that the Museum be the sight of the 2012 Camporee as both the Museum and the Sea Scouts are celebrating milestone anniversaries.

Maine Maritime Museum is marking the 50th anniversary of its beginning as the Marine Research Society of Bath, a small, local group that ultimately grew to what it is today, one of the foremost maritime museums in the country.

In addition, this year marks the 100th anniversary of Sea Scouting, the nautical branch of the Boy Scouts of America, and the oldest such organization after Boy Scouting itself. With Maine Maritime Museum serving as the charter partner for Maine’s most active Sea Scout Ship, Ship 243, it was only appropriate that the two anniversaries should be celebrated together.

The Camporee will feature challenges with an historical and nautical theme, such as rescue at sea competitions, first aid for such injuries as cannonball and cutlass wounds, sword fighting instruction and more.

The Wawanock Power Squadron, part of the United States Power Squadron, will carry out a flare burn on Saturday afternoon and the Merrymeeting Amateur Radio Association will be operating a ham radio, giving the scouts a chance to talk to people all over the world. The United States Coast Guard Cutter Flying Fish will be dockside and open for tours.

Maine Maritime Museum will be open to the public during the Museum’s regular hours for the weekend of the Camporee, and anyone is welcome to come an observe the fun, tour the Coast Guard cutter and try their hand at ham radio operations.

Boy Scout Troops interested in taking part in the Camporee should contact District Executive Owen Maguire at 797-5252, ext. 28 or magowen@bsamail.org.

The Morris Farm will celebrate the season at its annual Harvest Festival and Apple Pie Baking Contest on Sunday, October 28, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Come celebrate fall at this family festival. There will be fun and games for all ages.  

Bring your apples for pressing because the cider press will be on hand. Family fun includes sack races, bobbing for apples, face painting, apple pressing and a 4-H Bake Sale. This is a free community event meant to bring people together in a pastoral setting for old-fashioned fun and games. Guided barn and garden tours will be available.

The Morris Farm is a nonprofit educational farm located at 156 Gardiner Road in Wiscasset.  It is open to the public seven days a week from sunrise to sunset. For more information about the Morris Farm or its upcoming Harvest Festival and Apple Pie Contest, visit www.morrisfarm.org or call 882-4080.

 

On Saturday, Oct. 20 at 10 a.m., Sheepscot Valley Conservation Association will celebrate the grand opening of a new 1.1-mile trail on its Trout Brook Preserve in Alna.

Trout Brook Preserve is off Route 218 just north of the Alna Store and Dock Road, just south of West Alna Road. Kiosk and parking is across from Peaslee Road (private). Plan to meet in the parking lot for refreshments and proceed to the new trail head (a 5-minute walk some uphill).

The new trail was funded in part by the Davis Conservation Foundation and a grant from the Fields Pond Foundation to help with trail costs as well as produce an interpretive trail at the preserve. Many volunteers have helped with the new trail including a group of Boothbay Region High School students.

SVCA will open a new trail at the Trout Brook Preserve on Saturday at 10 a.m. Courtesy of Sheepscot Valley Conservation Association

Beware motorists: Little ghosts and goblins may be the move in your neighborhood, so take extra care while driving this Halloween. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, October 31 is the second highest pedestrian death day of the year behind July 4.

“Trick-or-treating is a cherished tradition, but the excitement of the night can cause children to forget to be careful,” Allstate spokesperson Chris Conner said. “Drivers need to stay alert and be aware that quiet streets might be busy with youngsters enjoying the holiday.”

The following tips from the Allstate Insurance Company and the National Highway Traffic Safety Association offer some excellent guidelines for ensuring that children have a safe Halloween and motorists use caution:

-Obey all traffic rules.

-Slow down. Watch for children walking on roads, medians and curbs; and take notice if there are no sidewalks.

-Enter and exit driveways carefully.

-Be especially alert. Children are darting out from between parked vehicles and from behind bushes.

-Never drink and drive. If you are attending a Halloween party, designate a driver.

-Keep your eyes on the road. Neighborhoods that don't normally have pedestrian or bicycle traffic may experience an increase in activity on Halloween.

-Remember that children are excited and may forget to stop, look and listen before crossing the street.

-Be patient. Young children need time to cross the street, especially if their costumes impair their ability to see or hear what is around them.

For more information on Halloween safety, call Tim Jameson at 882-8100 or visit the agency at 233 Bath Road in Wiscasset.

The HMS Bounty is off the railway at Boothbay Harbor Shipyard on Friday, Oct. 19 after undergoing four weeks of repairs. Shipyard President Eric Graves said a yacht will be brought onto the railway next, with the sailing vessel, Amistad (seen in the background), also scheduled for work.

The HMS Bounty. KEVIN BURNHAM/Boothbay Register

These two adjacent properties may be a little off the beaten path, but they are well worth tracking down for a visit. Linekin Preserve was created in 1994 when Ann and Walter Levison donated 95 acres of trail-laced land between Route 96 and the Damariscotta River to Boothbay Region Land Trust (BRLT). The Levisons also donated a trail easement of an additional 921 feet along the river’s edge which allowed for another waterside path for hikers. More than a decade later, in 2006, Linda Burley, the daughter of the late William and Lina Burley, fulfilled her parents’ wishes by donating 43 acres of land adjacent to the Linekin Preserve to BRLT.

Burley said her parents, longtime summer residents who retired to Boothbay in 1972, loved the woods and thought that people should be able to walk the land.

On the Ocean Point peninsula in East Boothbay, the Linekin Preserve and the Burley Loop present various hiking opportunities. Hiking trails totaling 2.75 miles link the two properties and provide public access to 138 acres of wooded land, views of the Damariscotta River and a variety of terrain. Linekin Preserve includes 651 feet of shorefront and offers scenic views across the river to South Bristol and seaward to the White Islands via several loop trails.

Most of the trails are easy to moderate for hiking; the trail from the main trail down to the shoreline is steep and somewhat challenging.

Evidence of old fencing and stone walls suggest that the Linekin Preserve at one time was pasture, most likely for sheep. Because of the unsuitable terrain and rocky and shallow soils, crops were probably not grown here. After grazing was discontinued around the time of the Civil War, the land quickly reverted to forest.

A mixture of red spruce, balsam fir, white pine, red oak, red maple and eastern hemlock is found in that order of abundance. A few green ash, gray and white birch and sugar maple can also be found.

Among the things to see just off the loop trail are a beaver dam and a lily pond. A large sawdust pile and evidence of an old sawmill indicate that the land was probably once used as a commercial source of timber.

The land was last logged in the late 1940s. Hikers can enjoy views of a unique forest because, unlike much of the region, the Burley lands were never logged and contain many spectacular trees. A woodland pond with ledge on the property provides yet another opportunity for hikers to rest and take in the beautiful vista.

Hikers are requested to stay on the trail and respect the privacy of the Levison family. From Route 27 in Boothbay Harbor, take Route 96 and proceed 3.8 miles. The Linekin Preserve and Burley Loop parking area is located on the left. For more information on Boothbay Region Land Trust or any BRLT properties, contact the office at 633-4818 or brlt@bbrlt.org.

The Southern Maine Travel Basketball League is hosting tryouts for boys and girls in grades 3 through 6 Saturday, Nov. 10 from 9 to 11:30 a.m. The league will run from December 1 through February 16 and has teams in each age group.

Participants will play 12 regular season games, one weekly practice and playoffs. All games and practices will be held at XLSportsworld (formerly Southern Maine Sportszone) in Saco.

The league is also accepting team registrations for boys and girls in grades 3 through 5, 7 and 8.

Preregistration is not required. Contact Jim Seavey at mainehoops@gmail.com for more information and visit www.mainehoops.com for information about options as a team.

© 2024 Maine-OK Enterprises, Inc