Would you enjoy boating more if you knew more about boats and navigation? That’s the purpose of boating courses offered by U. S. Coast Guard Flotilla Boothbay Harbor. They are designed to help you become better at operating or assisting when boating. We have four courses scheduled at two locations through early June. Please check our website at flotilla25.org for additional courses that may be scheduled during the summer.

“About Boating Safely” is an introduction to boating. Topics covered include types of boats, trailering, safety equipment, legal requirements, navigating waterways, and safe operation. The course is approved by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA). Successful completion of an optional exam at the end of the course leads to a certificate. It can be used to show you have taken a boating course which is required to operate a boat in most states and Canada. Many insurance companies offer discounts to those who have the certificate.

Boothbay Region Adult Ed: April 24, 26, May 1, and 3; 6-8 p.m. each night.

To register: call 207-633-3224 or email boothbayae@gwi.net.

Maine Maritime Museum: May 14,16, 21, and 23: 6-8 p.m. each night

To register: call 207-443-1316 or email titcomb@maritimeme.org.

“Navigating Mid Coast Maine” covers three easy ways to make boating more enjoyable: 1) learn the basics about the information found on nautical charts including GPS displays, 2) have them out where you can use them when enjoying Maine’s beautiful mid-coast waters, and 3) learn about navigation aids (they’re on the charts, GPS displays, and on the water) so you can use them to cruise safely. This class covers all three ways. It is an introduction to navigation using a chart of the Boothbay area. Learn how to read a chart (or GPS display) and become familiar with the coastal waters between Small Point and Pemaquid. Problem sets will help you plan cruises and understand the information found on any navigation chart (or GPS display) (e.g., buoys, lights, water depth) and to use them while cruising. True and magnetic headings, variation, lines of position, chart symbols, piloting, latitude and longitude, and dead reckoning are explained. A copy of the Three Rivers chart (#13293) is given to each student.

Boothbay Adult Ed: June 5, 7, 12, and 14; 6-8 p.m. each night.

To register: call 207-633-3224 or email boothbayae@gwi.net.

Maine Maritime Museum:June 4, 6, 11, 13; 6-8 p.m. each night.

To register: call 207-443-1316 or email titcomb@maritimeme.org.

“Sailing Skills and Seamanship”is designed for both experienced and novice sailboat skippers and crew. Topics include types of sailboats, equipment for your boat, how a boat sails, reading the wind, points of sailing, sail controls, running, close-hauled, reaching, and sail adjustments. Basic maneuvers of tacking and jibing are explained along with picking up a mooring, leaving and approaching a dock, and anchoring. In addition, aids to navigation and an introduction to the rules of the nautical road are covered. Passing an optional exam at the end of the course leads to a National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) certificate that can be used to show you have taken a boating safety course. The certificate is required to operate a boat in most states and Canada. Many boat insurance companies offer discounts on boating insurance to boat owners who have a certificate.

Boothbay Adult Ed: May 8, 10, 15, 17, 22 and 24; 6-8 p.m. each night.

To register: call 207-633-3224 or email boothbayae@gwi.net.

“Suddenly in Command: Safe boating requires planning and preparation as well as careful operation. Steps to take to minimize boating problems and basic emergency procedures are covered. Topics include pre-underway planning, developing situational awareness, understanding how boats handle, use of a VHF radio including how to get help in an emergency, Coast Guard required safety equipment and regulations, and accident assessment and reporting.

Maine Maritime Museum:May 29 and 30: 6-8 p.m. each night.

To register: call 207-443-1316 or email titcomb@maritimeme.org.

In its sixth year, bird watchers of all capabilities are welcomed to attend the Birding Extravaganza, a series of free birding excursions supported by four conservation organizations in Midcoast Maine. Merrymeeting Audubon, Brunswick-Topsham Land Trust, Harpswell Heritage Land Trust, and Kennebec Estuary Land Trust have planned an array of experiences to spot and study a wide range of birds as well as learn from expert birders.

The annual series has become popular with local birders of all ages and experience levels. It is a great way to introduce folks to the partnering land trusts' preserves and trails. The protected areas of the three land trusts cover thirteen towns in a region known as a global hotspot for migratory birds.

This year, the walks range in topic from learning techniques for beginning adult birders to exploring the species found around a working farm to spotting migrating waterfowl along a tidal stream. These walks are accessible to many, including outings for experienced and novice birders, families and those unable to walk great distances.

All events are free and open to the public. You can visit the websites of the four hosting organizations for more information on these terrific treks to observe our feathered friends.

Merrymeeting Audubon: www.maineaudubon.org/merrymeeting

Kennebec Estuary Land Trust: www.kennebecestuary.org

Harpswell Heritage Land Trust: www.hhltmaine.org

Brunswick-Topsham Land Trust: www.btlt.org.

Join Midcoast Conservancy and Teens To Trails for the Midcoast Mudathlon on Sunday, April 15 at Hidden Valley Nature Center in Jefferson. This fun-first event will include trail running and air rifle target shooting; all participants will receive safety training on the rifles before they race. Members of Trail Monster Running will be on hand to participate and support new trail running enthusiasts.

Race categories will include family (parents and any number of kids), youth, high school, novice, intermediate and advanced. The trail loop is approximately three-quarters of a mile; racers will alternate shooting and running. Family and novice course will involve two shooting rounds and one trail loop; the rest will entail at least four running loops and two times at the target range. Be prepared for muddy, sloppy trails—but that’s part of the fun! Teams are an option, and creative costumes are encouraged; the best ones will receive awards at the post-race ceremony.

Spectators are welcome. Pre-race training will begin at 8:30; racing will start at 9 a.m. After racing concludes, there will be vegetarian chili, hot chocolate and cider for participants and the cheering crowds. Midcoast Conservancy will have its fat tire bike fleet at the Nature Center as well, for anyone who would like to take one for a spin on the trails. Bring a helmet, or borrow one from the conservancy’s community hub gear collection.

Race fees are $25 for adults, $30 for families, $5 for youth and students. To register, go to www.midcoastconservancy.org/events/mudathlon-trail-race

For more information, call 207-389-5150.

The Mountain Valley Conference softball season begins April 18 when, weather permitting, the Wiscasset Middle High School Wolverines will host Hall-Dale.

Wolverine Coach Gordon Campbell said he’s confident the girls will be ready to go. As for the playing field, “We’ll just have to wait and see, hopefully we won’t get any more snow like we’ve had earlier this month.” This is Campbell’s fourth season coaching the team.

The MVC season is starting a week earlier than in 2017 when the Wolverines finished 2-12 and ranked 14th in Class C South. Due to its declining enrollment WMHS dropped to Class D this year, although the team will continue to play against Class C schools.

“It’ll be challenging for us, it seems to get more competitive every year,” said Campbell. “Defensively, I think we’ll do fine. It’s our hitting we need to improve but obviously we can’t work on that until we get outdoors.”

For the present Campbell’s charges have been splitting time with the baseball team by working out in the school’s gymnasium. Chelsea Taylor, a personal trainer, has been helping by leading the girls through some conditioning exercises.

“Chelsea’s been volunteering her time working with the girls, she’s just been a tremendous help,” said Campbell.

The Wolverines are a veteran team this year with 12 returnees from 2017 including nine upperclassmen. The seniors include Maeve Blodgett, Leah Potter, August Moore, Lindsey Gordon, Clara Mugnai and Corey Campbell. All six girls were starters last season, Moore having done nearly all of the pitching and Campbell starting every game as catcher.

“They’ve all played for me since they were freshmen and are really looking forward to the season ahead,” added the coach. Another senior, Caitlyn Pinkham, has joined the team.

Other returning players include juniors Paige Adams, Shelby Collins and Sydnie Thayer along with sophomores Farrah Casey and Kelsey Jones. New to the team are sophomores Lyanla Chancellor and Elizabeth Pratt.

Rounding out the roster are three freshmen, Gabby Leavitt, Riley Trask and Kayla Cossette. All played softball on the middle school team last season. Freshman Brooke Thayer is the team manager.

Coach Campbell is hopeful he can begin practicing outdoors in another week. “The snow’s melting away pretty quickly, maybe it will be dry enough for us to use the infield.”

The team doesn’t have any practice games scheduled although the coach said Temple Christian of Waterville has expressed an interest in playing a preseason game.

Temple, like WMHS, is a Class D school as are Richmond High School, Searsport, Greenville and Valley. The Wolverines aren’t scheduled to play any of these schools during the regular season, although they could meet in the playoffs.

The season opener, Wednesday, April 18 is scheduled to start at 11 a.m. The Wolverines then hit the road to play Dirigo April 20, returning to host Mt. Abram April 23.

Other than the season opener, all the games begin at 4 p.m.

Varsity baseball returns to Wiscasset Middle High School on April 18 when the Wolverines host Hall-Dale. The Wolverines, who have dropped to Class D, have a 16-game schedule in the Mountain Valley Conference. They’ll be facing all Class C teams during the regular season.

“That should help us as far as the Heal standings go. If we qualify for the playoffs, we’ll play against other Class D schools,” said Coach Gregg Wood who is returning for his third season. He led the Wolverines to the Mountain Valley Conference Class C playoffs in 2016.

WMHS was unable to field a varsity team in 2017 and played a junior varsity schedule. The team finished with a 5-1 record with wins against Brunswick, Carrabec, Richmond and Medomak. Unfortunately, the Wolverines lost their best starting pitcher to graduation.

Wood said this year’s roster is young but eager to learn. “We’ve had nine freshmen that have been coming to practice. All of them played for the middle school team last year and some of them will be seeing a lot of playing time for me this season.”

Ronald Drake and Andrew Hendrickson are the team’s only seniors. Both pitched last season, along with returnee Hayden Dunning, one of only two juniors. Sophomores Archie Brewer and freshman C.J. Roberts might figure in the coach’s pitching rotation as well.

“I can’t say who will be starting for us opening day until we get outdoors. I expect it will be either Drake or Hendrickson on the mound for us. We’ll see,” added Wood.

James Hodsdon, who is home-schooled, is the team’s other junior. Freshmen on the roster include Josh Dalton, Ryan Potter, Matt Eckert, Brian Foye, Dalton Roy, Casey Mills, Josh Dualan, Kyle St. Pierre and Roberts.

Wood hopes his team will be competitive. “Realistically, to qualify for the playoffs, we’ll need to win at least five MVC games,” he said.

The team has a pair of home preseason games scheduled, one with Lincoln Academy, April 5 (field conditions permitting), and another with Morse High School on April 11. Both games begin at 4 p.m.

The Wolverines’ home opener with Hall-Dale is during school vacation week and scheduled to start at 11 a.m. On April 20, WMHS travels to Dirigo, returning to host Mt. Abram April 23.

Alna officials and residents voiced interest March 28 in giving townspeople more to do together. A Wiscasset, Waterville & Farmington Railway Museum announcement to selectmen sparked the conversation.

The nonprofit’s marketing director Steve Piwowarski said the museum on Cross Road plans a celebration for residents June 16, the day before Father’s Day, including free train rides. Non-residents will pay to ride, he said. 

Piwowarski explained the event is about the community. “We want to just give a place to do it, to bring people together in this way.” He hopes businesses and organizations including the fire department will get involved, he said. Fire Chief Mike Trask told selectmen he could ask members. 

Attendees and officials brainstormed. The ideas included a town-wide scavenger hunt, possibly centered on town-owned historic buildings; and a softball game: Town officials versus the museum. Past museum president Steve Zuppa was smiling as he suggested it.

Piwowarski, originally from Rutland, Vermont, recalled a scavenger hunt there. “It was really cool, and you learned so much.”

Third Selectman Doug Baston said the town used to have a recreation committee and he wasn't sure why it stopped meeting. He and newly elected First Selectman Melissa Spinney discussed possibly restarting the committee. Maybe a picnic table or a playground could be considered for the town’s portion of the Pinkham Pond shoreline or elsewhere in town, participants said.

Spinney liked the thought of a playground. “I think it’s the one thing Alna’s missing,” she said.

Also March 28, selectmen said they would ask Maine Municipal Association if and when a special election is needed for the second selectman’s seat Spinney had held; re-appointed Liz Brown town clerk and Amy Stockford treasurer; appointed Tom McKenzie code enforcement officer, plumbing inspector and emergency management agency director, and recently retired first selectman David Abbott a fence viewer; and decided to offer Toby Stockford another one-year, $3,200 mowing contract.

The board meets next at 6 p.m. April 11 at the town office.

Several members of the Wolverine girls track team are on the verge of setting new records at Wiscasset Middle High School this spring.

“These kids are going to be a lot of fun to watch,” promises Josiah Winchenbach, returning for his third season as the Wolverines’ coach.

In 2017, the girls finished 12th at the State Class C track meet at Dover-Foxcroft. Winchenbach has three seniors returning, Vanessa Dunn, Ayanna Stover and Grace Webber. A year ago, Stover placed second in the 100-meter hurdles at the state meet that she hopes to qualify for again this season. She also has a chance to break her own WMHS 2015 record set in the triple jump, 34-1 1/4”, said the coach.

“Grace is a tenth of a second away from setting a new school record in the 200-meter race,” added Winchenbach. The WMHS record, set by Venus Pinkham, is 27.1 seconds and has stood since 1981. Last year, Webber ran a 27.2 second race.

Both girls, along with Dunn, will return to the 4x400-meter relay team. They, too, have a chance of surpassing the school record. Junior Cara Viele is the fourth member of that relay team, replacing Gabby Chapman who was lost to graduation. Last year’s 4x400 team placed sixth at the state meet. “They certainly have the potential to qualify for the states again,” said their coach.

Dunn also plans to run the 100-meter dash and 300-meter hurdles, while Viele is training for the long jump and 400-meter race and plans to play tennis for the Wolverines.

The coach said sophomore Lily Souza is the only other returnee from 2017. She’ll be back competing in the shot put, discus and javelin. Joining Souza in the weights competition is sophomore Heaven Larrabee who will also run the 100.

Gwen Webber is the only freshman to join the team. “Like all of the other girls, she’ll compete in three to four events, the 100, the high jump and maybe one or both of the relay teams,” Winchenbach added.

The track teams will continue to compete at the Class C level this season even though WMHS has dropped to Class D due to its declining enrollment. “Honestly, I don’t think this will make that big of a difference for us. Hopefully come June, we’ll be sending a few of our girls to this year’s state meet that will be hosted by Massabesic High School,” Winchenbach said.

The first regular meet of the Mountain Valley Conference will be on Monday, April 23 when the Wolverines host Monmouth Academy, Spruce Mountain and Dirigo. The meet will get under way at 4 p.m.

The 2018 edition of the boys Wolverine track team has a solid core of upperclassmen, three seniors and five juniors, but can they compete for a Mountain Valley Conference title?

The team won’t have long to wait. Its first meet is just a couple of weeks away on April 23. Wiscasset Middle High School will host Monmouth Academy, Spruce Mountain and Dirigo. WMHS will host three of the four MVC qualifying meets.

“We’ve got a good deal of experience, we’ll be competing at home and we’ll be competitive,” said Coach Josiah Wichenbach who’s returning for his third season.

The three seniors are Sam Strozier, Max Sampson and Trinin Jeffery.

Strozier, who’s coming off an impressive wrestling season in which he qualified for the New England championship meet, is back to compete in the triple jump. He’ll also be part of the 4x800, 4x400 and 4x100-meter relay teams.

“Sam won the triple jump in last year’s Mountain Valley Conference meet,” the coach noted. “Like all of us, he’s pretty excited about getting back outdoors and on the track.”

Sampson placed eighth in the long jump and 11th in the triple jump at the 2017 State Class C meet hosted by Dover Foxcroft. He’ll compete again in both events in the upcoming season along with the 100-meter dash and 4x100 relay.

Jeffrey’s been working hard at practice and will be on the infield throwing the shot put, javelin and discus.

The juniors are led by Matt Chapman. “He’s coming in ranked first in the MVC in the 110 and 300-meter hurdles and is among the top five hurdlers in class C. He’s a tenth of a second from breaking the school record in both events,” continued Coach Winchenbach. “Matt has a tremendous work ethic and has shown a lot of leadership.” He’ll also return to the 4x100 and 4x400 relay teams.

Other juniors include Chris “CJ” Loyola, Caleb and Josh Gabriel and Haiden Dunning. Both Loyola and Caleb Gabriele qualified for the states last year as part of the 4x100 and 4x400 relay teams.

The coach thinks the Gabriele brothers will likely figure in the Wolverines' scoring this season. Josh  will compete in the high, long and triple jump as well as the javelin. Caleb returns to the relay teams, will run the 800, and throw the javelin.

The sophomores include three members from the 2017 team, high jumper Cedrick Loyola, sprinter Josh Jones and distance runner Gage Varian. Dustin Manson joins the team as well as throwing the shot put, discus and javelin. Loyola qualified for the state C meet last year in the high jump by clearing 5-2.

“Gage is coming off a solid cross country season coached by Warren Cossette and has the potential to do very well in the two-mile for us. Based on his times from last season he’s ranked about fifth in the conference,” added Winchenbach.

New to the team are freshmen Nate Gilliam and Aiden Foley. They were part of the Middle School track team a year ago.

The first-ever Wiscasset-Boothbay alumni track meet is being planned for Friday, April 13 beginning at Wiscasset Middle High School.

Josiah Winchenbach, coach of the Wiscasset Wolverine boys and girls track teams, said the meet begins at 4 p.m. and is open to all Boothbay Region and Wiscasset high school alumni.

As stated on the event’s promotional poster, men and women are invited to come and show their friends and family “You still got it!"

The events planned include the 100, 200, 400, 800 and 1600-meter races, the high and low hurdles, long jump, high jump and triple jump, javelin and shot put.

To participate, you’ll need to email your interest including your name, school including the year you graduated to Coach Winchenbach at symols0825@gailmail.com. Include the event(s) you’d like to participate in.

Competition waivers will be available at the registration table the day of the meet.

It appears spring may finally be taking hold in Midcoast Maine. Damariscotta River Association (DRA) is offering two opportunities in the coming weeks to get outdoors and explore signs of the changing season.

On Saturday, April 14 from 7 a.m. to noon, Midcoast Audubon bird experts Dennis McKenna and John Weinrich will lead a bird walk at DRA’s Great Salt Bay Farm. The group will explore freshwater marsh, shoreline, and forest edges to look for ducks and geese, raptors, kingfishers, gulls, and early migrating warblers and songbirds. This event is free of charge and no registration is required.

On Sunday, April 15 from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., hikers are invited to join DRA Education Director Sarah Gladu for a five-mile guided walk along the River~Link trail from McKay Road in Edgecomb to Dodge Point in Newcastle. River~Link is an unbroken wildlife corridor in the center of the Boothbay peninsula offering excellent opportunities for bird watching and finding animal tracks, scat and signs.

To help with planning and coordination, registration by April 13 is required for the River~Link hike. The fee is $5, or free for DRA members. Hikers should bring lunch and water. The group will meet at Dodge Point on River Road in Newcastle to leave cars, then carpool to the trailhead on McKay Road.

Learn more online at www.damariscottariver.org.

The Wiscasset Heat competition cheering team finished third out of seven teams in its division in the Classic Invitational Championship in Woburn, Massachusetts on April 8. Less than one point separated first place from third place.

The team is scheduled to travel to the Thrill Jam competition at Six Flags amusement park in Massachusetts April 28. 

Join Hildy Ellis,Coordinator at Knox-Lincoln Soil & Water Conservation District, as she leads participants on a walk along the margins of the bog at Midcoast Conservancy’s Hidden Valley Nature Center (HVNC) Friday, May 11 from 10 a.m. to noon. 

A 220-foot boardwalk extends into the heart of the wetland, making it possible for visitors to interact with a fascinating, but incredibly delicate ecosystem, and to witness the spring explosion of plant life there.

The bog ecosystem is an iconic piece of Maine’s natural landscape. These wetlands have been forming over millions of years in a completely unique fashion. Much of the flora and fauna found in the bog is unique to this area and other places like it. The HVNC kettle hole bog is home to many beautiful flowering plants, including several varieties of orchids and unique bird species including the relatively uncommon yellow-bellied flycatcher.

Meet at the HVNC gate at 10 a.m. and then it is an easy 10-minute walk to the bog. Dress appropriately for possible buggy conditions, bring binoculars if desired, and please no dogs. $5 donation requested. Register at www.midcoastconservancy.org/events/guided-bog-walk.

For more information, 207-389-5150.

Midcoast Conservancy will be hosting the annual Hooked on Fishing event, Saturday, June 9 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.,  where kids get out on the water and experience the fun of fishing!

Children of all experience levels are welcome; each child get an hour of fishing in prime fishing spots on Damariscotta Lake with experienced volunteer boaters as their personal guides. Mentors will be onshore to assist young anglers with equipment and to answer their questions about fishing.

Midcoast Conservancy will provide all of the kids’ equipment (fishing poles, bait, boats, and lifejackets) and the Whitefield Lions Club will cook up delicious food—all for free!

Sign up today; one fishing rod will be given away, and admission to the Park is free for everyone coming to this event, compliments of Midcoast Conservancy.

Participants will meet at Damariscotta Lake State Park, Jefferson, and head out onto the lake from there. Register to choose a time slot; boats will leave hourly. Go to www.midcoastconservancy.org/events/hooked-fishing-day-2.

Call 207-389-5150 for more information or with any questions. 

The event is co-sponsored by Sportsman’s Alliance of Maine, Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, Maine Bureau of Parks and Lands, and the Whitefield Lions Club.

A year and a half after selectmen approached the then-new Midcoast Conservancy for a contribution in lieu of taxes, the nonprofit has proposed paying the town $1,425 a year, plus full taxes on one parcel the nonprofit could choose to sell. Third Selectman Doug Baston told MC’s executive director Jody Jones and land and conservation director Anna Fiedler April 11, he considered the $1,425 figure a starting point.

The conservancy’s letter to the town states the organization paid Alna $3,834 in 2016, including full taxes on six parcels. If MC enrolled in a current use program and had open space and forest management figured in, based on 2016 valuations, its taxes would come to about $1,414, the letter states.

The letter seeks tax exemptions on 13 parcels totaling 375.9 acres. “We understand that asking a town to exempt our organization from taxes is seen as a burden to others in the town, especially in these times of tight state and federal budgets where more and more costs are being transferred to the local level,” Fiedler writes. MC’s ownership of the acreage ensures those properties will be forever open to enjoy and will add value, not financial burden to the town, she writes.

MC’s acres don’t add to school costs, require more roads or need as much fire and police protection as developed property, the letter states. The acres support flood control, groundwater recharge for private wells and, for the Sheepscot River and other water bodies, buffering from contaminated runoff; and Alna children have benefited from MC's programs, it states.

"That said, we do wish to contribute to the town’s financial resources as well as the ecological and recreational resources," Fiedler writes about the payment offer. MC plans to still pay full taxes on a fourteenth, 10-acre parcel it retains the right to sell.

Upcoming results of the town's revaluation should help in the tax discussion, MC's representatives told Baston and First Selectman Melissa Spinney.

Resident Greg Shute said the talks with the conservancy could be an opportunity to make sure the town treats all nonprofits fairly. Attendees also voiced interest in talking further about recreation, including public water access. The town’s new recreation committee could look at it, said Shute. Selectmen recently named him to the committee.

High school softball 4 p.m. 

April 20: Home vs. Hall Dale HS 11 a.m.
April 23: @ Monmouth (depart 1:45)
April 25: Home vs. Mt. Abram
April 27: @ Spruce Mtn. (depart 1:30)
April 30: Home vs. Winthrop
May 2: @ Carrabec (depart 1 p.m.)
May 4: Home vs. Dirigo
May 7: @ Lisbon (depart 1:45)
May 9: Home vs. Mt. Valley
May 11: @ Oak Hill (depart 2:15)
May 14: Home vs. Telstar (4:30)
May 18: @ Madison (depart 1:30)
May 21: @ Hall Dale (depart 2:00)
May 23: Home vs. Monmouth
May 29: Home vs. Carrabec
May 31: @ Dirigo (depart 1:30)

High school baseball 4 p.m.

April 20: Home vs. Hall Dale HS 11 a.m.
April 23: @ Monmouth (depart 1:45)
April 25: Home vs. Mt. Abram
April 27: @ Spruce Mtn. (depart 1:30)
April 30: Home vs. Winthrop
May 2: @ Boothbay (depart 2:15)
May 4: Home vs. Dirigo
May 7: @ Lisbon (depart 1:45)
May 9: Home vs. Mt. Valley
May 11: @ Oak Hill (depart 2:15)
May 14: Home vs. Telstar (4:30)
May 18: @ Carrabec/Madison (depart 1pm)
May 21: @ Hall Dale (depart 2:00)
May 23: Home vs. Monmouth
May 29: Home vs. Boothbay
May 31: @ Dirigo (depart 1:30)

Girls varsity tennis: 4 p.m. 

April 24: @ Oak Hill HS (depart 2:00)
April 26: Home vs. Dirigo HS
April 30: @ Boothbay HS (depart 2:45)
May 2: Home vs. MVHS
May 7: @ Winthrop HS (depart 2:00)
May 9: Home vs. Madison HS
May 11: @ Carrabec HS (depart 1:45)
May 14: Home vs. Hall Dale HS
May 16: @ Lisbon HS (depart 2:10)
May 18: Home vs. Spruce Mtn. HS

Boys varsity tennis: 4 p.m.

April 24: @ Carrabec (depart 1:45)
April 26: @ Dirigo (depart 1:30)
April 30: Home vs. Boothbay
May 2: @ MV (depart 1:15)
May 9: @ Madison (depart 1:30)
May 11: Home vs. Carrabec
May 14: @ Hall Dale (depart 2:20)
May 16: Home vs. Lisbon
May 18: @ Spruce Mountain (depart 1:45)
May 23: Home vs. Spruce Mountain

High school outdoor track 3:45 p.m.

April 23: Home vs. Monmouth, Spruce Mtn., Dirigo 
May 1: Home vs. Carrabec, Dirigo, Winthrop, Madison
May 9: @ Lisbon, Madison, Mt. Abram, Spruce (depart 2:15)
May 15: Home vs. Richmond, Monmouth, Winthrop
May 24: MVC Meet @ Lisbon 1 p.m. (depart 11:30)
June 2: Class C State Meet @ Massabesic (departure time TBD)

Middle school outdoor track: 3:30 p.m.

April 24: @ Medomak Valley HS (depart  2:15)
May 2: Home vs. GSB, Jefferson, BRES, Boothbay hosts
May 9: Home GSB/Oceanside/Jefferson/Wiscasset, Wiscasset hosts
May 16: @ Medomak Valley HS: Wiscasset, Boothbay, Medomak, Jefferson (2:15)
May 24: @ Belfast Championship

Middle school softball / baseball 3:45 p.m.

April 24: @ GSB (depart 2:20)
April 26: Home vs. Oceanside
May 1: Softball only @ CRMS (depart 1:45pm)
May 5: Home vs. Nobleboro/Jefferson
May 11: Softball only @ Oak Hill (depart 1:45)
May 14: @ Bristol (depart 2:30)
May 15: Home vs. Medomak
May 17: @ THMS (depart 1:45)
May 22: Home vs. Bristol
May 24: Home vs. GSB
May 29: Quarterfinals
May 31: Semifinals
June 6: Division Championship

The reopening of Wiscasset Yacht Club on Sunday morning, April 29 means the summer boating season is near. WYC members will meet at the waterfront at 11 a.m. for the clubhouse’s annual spring cleaning and re-installation of the floats and docks.

Thursday, April 12 found several members putting the finishing touches on a new 8-foot by 30-foot-wide dock, one of six used to accommodate boaters. David King Sr. of Woolwich led a group of six WYC volunteers in assembling the dock that included contractor and WYC member Randy Trefethen. King, who serves as WYC dock and mooring master, said the project required about two days' labor.

“We purchased all the lumber we needed from N.C. Hunt of Damariscotta and the bolts and other hardware from Ames True Value here in town. I guess, all told, we spent a little over a thousand dollars for the materials we needed,” he added.

The club replaces one of its docks every three years or so. Each has a life expectancy of about 10 years.

“Surprisingly, it’s not the saltwater that damages the wood, it’s the sun, rain and the normal wear and tear the decking is exposed to that wears them out,” said King.

The work party also included Alan Boyes, Don Davis, Tom Stoner and Roy Jenkins. Davis is a past WYC commodore and Stoner serves as the club’s sailing commodore.

Trefethen operates Renovate Right Construction, based inWales. He and his crew spent about three hours building the frame. Then he grilled hamburgers for the crew to enjoy.

WYC was established in 1952 and has between 95 and 125 members. Boyes said the annual dues are $195 for a regular membership and $150 for a social membership. WYC officers include Don Davis, Commodore, John Bryer, Vice Commodore and Sonia Dallaire, Rear Commodore. The club’s annual Open House is June 10 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

This summer, WYC is planning to offer an adult sailing program and one for youth. For more information, contact Stoner at mtstonermate@gmail.com

Friday the 13th proved a lucky day as far as the weather was concerned. The predicted rain held off long enough to get in the first ever alumni meet, featuring current and former high school athletes from Wiscasset and Boothbay.

Wolverine Coach Josiah Winchenbach and Coach Nick Scott of Boothbay Region organized the meet held at Wiscasset Middle High School. The meet included running, jumping and throwing events.

WMHS senior Grace Webber won two events, placing first in the 100-meter dash at 12.4 seconds, and winning the 200-meter sprint in 28 seconds flat. Her younger sister Gwen Webber ran second in the 200, in 32.6.

Boothbay Region's Reagan Cola was second in the 100, in 13.9 and Gwen Webber was third, in 14.5. The Seahawks finished one and two in the 400, Cola at 1:12 followed by Marissa Peters, 1:20. Wolverine senior Avanna Stover won the 100-meter hurdles in 17.5, followed by Seahawk Olivia Paolillo, second at 19.8 and Gwenn Webber third at 21 seconds even.

Lily Souza won the shot put with a winning toss of 25’2” and placed third in the javelin behind Cola and Sydney Mercier. Mercier’s winning toss measured 53’10.” There were no results for the girls' jumping events. Both Stover and Webber were the only entries in the long and triple jumps and decided against competing.

Boothbay Region's Will Perkins and Kyle Ames finished one and two in the 400, with times of 58.9 and 59.9 respectively.

WMHS's Matt Chapman won the 110-meter hurdles, crossing the finish line in 17.8 seconds. Cedrick Loyola and Max Sampson placed one and two in the triple jump at 37’4” and 36’6.5” while Boothbay Region's Quinn Ranta was third, 34’7”.

The Wolverines swept the long jump. Max Sampson placed first with a leap of 18’ 8” followed by the Loyola brothers, Chris and Cedrick, tying for second at 17’ 3” and Chapman in third, 16’ 3.5”. Seahawk Jay Hasch and Will Perkins were one and two in the high jump clearing 6’2” and 5’6”. Cedrick Loyola placed third  clearing 5’4” and Ranta fourth at 5’2”.

The combined Wolverine and Boothbay alumni won six of the 17 events proving to Coaches Winchenbach and Scott the alumni have still got it!

Matthew Brown, Boothbay Region class of ’01, had the best shot put throw of the day, a hurl of 50 feet even on his second effort. In 2000, he set a Seahawk record in the shot put.

Brandon Campbell returned to WMHS and won the 100-meter dash besting a field of 11 runners. His winning time was 12.1. Wolverine Chris Loyola was second in the 100 at 12.5. Campbell won two events at the 2009 MVC championship meet, the 200-meter sprint and 300-meter hurdles when he set a new Wolverine school record, 40.1.

The alumni swept the distance races. Boothbay's Chase Brown and Matt Burnham placed first and second in the 1,600 at 4:54 and 5:19. Brandon Goud, a 2017 graduate of WMHS, was third. Goud is attending Maine Maritime Academy in Castine where he’s part of the cross-country team. Brown also won the 800, crossing the finish line in 2:16.6.

Other alumni participants included former Seahawk Draco Peaslee who returned from the University of Maine at Farmington to take part in the sprinting events. He won the 200 in 22.9 seconds, edging out WMHS’s Chapman who ran a 25.8 race followed by Boothbay's Tim Chapelle, 26.9. 

Wiscasset alumnus Darren Jones ran in heat two of the 100 against his son, Josh, a WMHS sophomore.  

Abel Bryer, another Seahawk alumnus, won the javelin with a toss of 142’ 9”, BBR’s Jay Hasch was second, 119’5”, WMHS alum Conlon Ranta  third, 114’ 8.”

Boothbay’s Dick Morrison served as the official starter in the running events. Seahawk assistant coaches Josh Higgins and Catlin Sheppard also pitched in to help run the meet. Wiscasset’s Todd Souza officiated the shot put that drew 16 competitors, the most of all the events.

Boothbay outscored Wiscasset 45-37 in the girl’s competition and 98-75 in the boys. The event drew over 50 competitors.

Despite winter's efforts to hold its grip on the northeast region, spring is in fact upon us. Wiscasset Speedway is once again ready to embark on a busy and diverse schedule beginning with Group 1 Opening Day this Saturday, April 21 at 2 p.m. The engines will roar to life, the fans will don their favorite racing attire, and the familiar sounds, smells, and energy will fill the air. A new racing season will take the green flag. Fans & drivers alike have come to expect facility upgrades and a wide array of motorsports entertainment from owners Richard and Vanessa Jordan.

Wiscasset Speedway's 2018 season will be no different. A lighting system and network upgrade along with further grandstand side renovations will continue the track's multi-year modernization project. On the racing side of things, the track's eight weekly divisions will once again be split into two groups that will alternate week to week. Group 1 will be highlighted by the ServPro of Biddeford-Saco Prostocks, along with the Maxwell's Market  Super Streets, the Cahill Tire 4-cylinder Pros, and the Thunder 4 Minis. Group 2 will feature the Wood Pellet Warehouse Late Model Sportsman, the K&A Property Services Modifieds, the Kennebec Equipment Outlaw Minis, and the Norms Used Cars Strictly Streets.

To complement the weekly divisions, Wiscasset Speedway will once again add in several “Flex” races featuring Nelcar Legends, Nema Midgets, Northeast Classic Lites, Wicked Good Vintage Racers, Senior Tour Auto Racers, GoKarts, and Enduros. History will also be made in August with 350 SMAC Super Modifieds come to town, marking the first time the winged Super-Mods will take to the high banks of Maine's fastest track.

Wiscasset's signature events return with the annual Coastal 200 on Memorial Day weekend, the Boss Hogg 150 on Labor Day weekend, and the Amsoil Dominator Strictly Shootout in late September. Other special races will include the Super Street 75 presented by Ward & Son's Construction on June 16th, Prostock National Qualifier on June 30th, and Outlaw Mini Madness 75 lapper on Sept. 1.

Variety and fan entertainment will once again be a major part of Wiscasset's 2018 plans. The Bozzuto's Monster Truck Throwdown welcomes midcoast Maine favorite Greg Winchenbach and his monster lobster "Crustation" plus five other monster trucks for a pair of shows May 25 and 26. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for kids. Truck Pulls, Fan Appreciation Nights, Fireworks Night, driver autograph sessions, The Rusty Wallace Racing Experience, The Mainely Motorsports / Bozzuto's / Dreamride Fan Night for Special Olympics and more are scattered throughout the season. Wiscasset Speedway will also be hosting the Maine Vintage Race Car Association's SummerFest in August.

“There is such a busy and exciting season ahead for our fans, drivers, and staff,” says promoter Ken Minott, “and once again affordable family fun is what it's all about. Grandstand admission will stay at $5 for nearly all of our events. We're also happy to report that, thanks to the hard work of all of our drivers, we've raised the payout scale in all eigbht of our weekly divisions plus we've also raised the payouts in all of our major race events.” The full schedule and other info can be found on the Wiscasset Speedway website at www.wiscassetspeedway.com

Saturday's program kicks off with the pit gates opening at 10 a.m., grandstand gates at noon and the green flag flies on the racing action at 2 p.m. Wiscasset Speedway is located at 274 West Alna Road in Wiscasset. 

The Mountain Valley Conference baseball and softball seasons got underway Friday afternoon. The field conditions forced the Wolverines to move their home opener from Wiscasset to Farmingdale. Hall-Dale won both games that were called after four and half innings due to the mercy rule.

The boys’ game began with Matt Eckert drawing a leadoff walk on six pitches against Hall-Dale starter Logan Dupont. Dupont then settled in and struck out the next two Wolverine batters. The next batter Andrew Hendrickson hit a comebacker to the mound; Dupont scooped the ball up and made the throw to first to end the inning. Hall-Dale’s Austin Stebbins led off with a single in the home half of the first inning, stole second and scored on a base hit by Jake Brown, the number two batter. Brown then stole second and moved along to third on a pass ball.  The next batter drew a base on balls putting runners at the corners.

Akira Warren then lifted a fly ball to left that fell in front of the fielder scoring two more runs. Two walks followed and then Dean Jackman doubled, driving in both runners. It wasn’t long before the Bulldogs had batted through the order. By the time the inning ended, Hall-Dale had sent 25 batters to the plate and put 20 runs on the scoreboard. Stebbins had three hits in the inning, driving in three runs with a triple and a single. Warren knocked in two runs with a double and Cole Lockhart had a two-run double as well.

Hendrickson started and was relieved after pitching a third of the inning. Hayden Dunning got the final two outs striking out one batter. A number of those Bulldog runs were unearned, the result of throwing errors and other fielding mistakes.

The lack of outdoor practices due to the soggy field conditions and bad weather has taken its toll on the team. Wiscasset had all four of its preseason scrimmage games cancelled. The team is sure to improve once the weather warms up and it can get in some much needed practice on its home diamond.

Across the field in the girls game, the Bulldogs shut out the Wolverines 15-0. They scored five runs in the first inning, three in the third, three in the second and four in the fourth before the game was called.

The Wolverines turned a double play when second baseman Maeve Blodgett scooped up a grounder, tagged the runner going by and threw to Clara Mugnai, the first baseman. Lindsey Gordon made a nice running catch in left field. Kelsey Jones and Sydnie Thayer had base hits for Wiscasset and Thayer pitched all four innings for the Wolverines. Several members of the Wolverine team were absent, being away for school vacation.

Wiscasset Middle High School travels to Monmouth to face the Mustangs April 23, returning home to play Mt. Abram April 25. Both games start at 4 p.m.

A small but energetic field of runners showed up for the third annual Wiscasset Parks and Recreation Department four-mile run on Saturday, April 21.

Runners from as far as Wilton, Searsport and Carrabassett Valley ran a course from Wiscasset Community Center on Route 27, to back roads and then the finish back at the center. Thirty-two runners pre-signed up for the event. Twenty-five completed the course. “We are trying to reestablish the event which will reoccur every year,” said race organizer Duane Goud.

There were six age divisions for both men and women. Brandon Goud, 18, won the men’s race with a time of 27:56. Nathan Gilliam, 15, came in second in 28:12 followed Bryn Doiron, 56, of Wilton who also came in first in her age division with a time of 31:33.  

In all, 16 of the 25 runners won prizes. Top prizes were $50 or a three-month membership in the community center, according to Goud. Added this year was a one-mile fun run for kids age 12 and under on a course that twice circled the soccer field. Brady Mclaughlin, 7, won in 7:42. Jessie Willey, 9, won the girls race. Prizes were a medal, t-shirt and a pass to Funtown.

Proceeds went to the Cooper-Diperri Scholarship Fund, said Goud.

A chilly, windy day wasn't going to keep a large group of eager race fans from what they had been waiting months for. Opening day at Wiscasset Speedway had arrived. Group 1 divisions took to the track Saturday afternoon with a little over 1,200 racing enthusiasts huddled in for a day of fun. The Thunder 4 Mini division had the honor of spotlight status for the day. Also in action were the ServPro of Biddeford Saco Prostocks, Maxwell's Market Super Streets, and Cahill Tire 4-cylinder Pros.

The Thunder 4s lined up for their 35-lap feature with Michael Golding of Pownal and Wiscasset's Noah Haggett on the front row. The two put on a good early battle with Haggett leading the way until a lap 8 caution. On the ensuing restart, Haggett had shifting problems and dropped 8 positions by the time he got up to full speed on the backstretch. That's all Golding needed as he ran out to a full straightaway lead by the halfway point of the race. Behind him, several drivers including Caleb Emerson Mains, Cameron Campbell, Travis Poulliot and Brandon Varney battled it out for the remaining two spots in victory lane. Poulliot finally broke into the clear and began to chase down the leader. Over the final 10 laps, Poulliot cut Golding's lead in half. But time ran out and Golding notched the victory. Poulliot settled for the runner-up trophy. Varney pulled in to claim the 3rd, however, he was penalized in post-race inspection, handing the 3rd place finish to Caleb Emerson-Mains. Haggett recovered to finish 4th and Campbell took 5th.

In support action, Dave Farrington Jr. of Jay returned to the track where his racing career started nine years earlier and notched a convincing victory in the 40-lap feature for the ServPro of Biddeford Saco Prostocks. Farrington patiently worked the outside lane and finished the pass on Sidney's Kevin Douglass by lap 15. From there he built up a comfortable cushion and held it to the checkers. It was his 3rd career prostock win at Wiscasset Speedway to go along with a pair of Late Model victories, including the 2015 Coastal 200. Wiscasset's Nick Hinkley started 4th and finished 2nd. They were joined in victory lane by Ajay Picard of Palmyra. Douglass and Charlie Colby of Newcastle filled out the top 5.

In the 25-lap feature for the Maxwell's Market Super Streets defending champ Josh Bailey took advantage of a slip by pole sitter Sean Johnson, took the lead in turn 4 and ran to the feature win. 2017 Rookie of the Year Michael Harrison turned in a personal best 2nd place finish, followed by Johnson. The Cahill Tire 4-cylinder Pros saw 2nd year racer Hayden Norris of West Gardiner hold off challenges from a handful of veterans to pick up his first career win. Ryan Hayes of Jefferson and Larry Melcher of Jay joined him in victory lane, while Jeff Prindall and Craig Dunn rounded out the top 5. 

Wiscasset Speedway returns to action Saturday, April 28 at 2 p.m. for Group 2 opening day. The show will feature action in the Wood Pellet Warehouse Late Models, the Norm’s Used Cars Strictly Streets, the K&A Property Services Modifieds, and the Kennebec Equipment Rental Outlaw Minis. The Amsoil Nelcar Legends Series will also make their first of seven appearances of the 2018 season.

For more information, go to www.wiscassetspeedway.com.

Track and field competition returned to Wiscasset Middle High School Monday afternoon including boys and girls from Dirigo, Spruce Mountain, Monmouth Academy and Boothbay Region.

Wolverine Coach Josiah Winchenbach saw his charges win seven events in the girls meet and four in the boys.

Ayanna Stover placed first in the 100-meter hurdles in 17.17 and first in the long jump, leaping 16-1.

Grace Webber won the 200-meter in 27.83. Boothbay’s Reagan Cola placed second, 29.72, and Hannah Cola third, 29.80. Webber took second place in the long jump, 15-11. Vanessa Dunn won the 300-meter hurdles in 56.38. Gwen Webber placed first in the high jump clearing 4-6, besting a field of seven jumpers.

The most exciting race of the afternoon was the girl’s 4x100 relay won by Wiscasset. After falling behind in the second leg of the race, Grace Webber regained the lead handing off to Stover who crossed the finish line in 54.37 ahead of Spruce Mountain. The other members the Wolverine relay team were Gwen Webber and Dunn. The team of Dunn, Stover and the Webber sisters also won the 4x400 relay recording a time of 4.55:62; Boothbay was second in 4:59.69.

Lily Souza took second in the javelin, 64-2, while Boothbay’s Reagan Cola won with a toss of 72-2. Souza placed fourth in the shot put, 26-9. Monmouth’s Destiny Clough’s winning throw was 33-9. Gwen Webber placed fourth in the 100-meter crossing the finish line in 14.68 with Dunn running sixth, 15.05. Spruce Mountain’s Avery Williams’ recorded a winning time of 14.13.

Monmouth won the meet with 139 points followed by Spruce Mountain 97, WMHS 64, Boothbay 39 and Dirigo 2.

Boys results

Wiscasset’s Matt Chapman won the 110- and 300-meter hurdles recording times of 17:34 and 44.57, and Cedrick Loyola placed first in the triple jump, 36-6.5.

Chapman, Caleb Gabriele, Cedrick Loyola and Chris Loyola won the 4x100 relay, crossing the finish line in 48:54. The Loyola brothers ran the final leg, with Cedrick passing off to his older brother Chris who sprinted to the finish.

Chris Loyola placed third in the 100-meter in 12.48; the winning time was 12.22 ran by Zac Toothaker from Spruce Mountain. Cedrick Loyola cleared 5-6 in the high jump, a personal best, placing second in the event. Brandon Frey of Spruce Mountain won with a jump of 5-8, setting a new Spruce Mountain record.

Nate Gilliam placed fourth in the 1600-meter, 6:13.46 and Caleb Gabriele was sixth in the 800, 2:35.92. Gabriele was fifth in the high jump clearing 5-4.

Cedrick Loyola, Josh Gabriele and Chris Loyola placed third, fourth and fifth in the long jump with distances of 18, 17-1 and 16-4, respectively. Toothaker’s winning leap was 19-6. Chris Loyola placed fifth in the shot put, 31-7.5. Dirigo’s Dalton Berry had the winning throw, 44-10. Josh Jones placed seventh in the 200, 28.79.

Spruce Mountain won the event with 112 points followed by Monmouth 69, WMHS 58, Boothbay 56 and Dirigo 52.

1st singles: -Kayla Delano (sophomore) (Wiscasset) vs. Francesca Natali (senior) (Oak Hill) -Set 1: 6-4 (Wiscasset) -Set 2: 6-3 (Oak Hill) -Set 3: 6-6 7-point tie breaker: 7-4 (Wiscasset) WIN

2nd singles: -Cara Viele (sophomore) (Wiscasset) vs. Mackenzie Thibeault (junior) (Oak Hill) -Set 1: 6-4 (Oak Hill) -Set 2: 6-4 (Oak Hill) Loss

3rd singles: -Sarah Foley (senior) (Wiscasset) vs. Kathryn Blais (sophomore)(Oak Hill) -Set 1: 6-4 (Wiscasset) -Set 2: 6-6 7-point tie breaker: 7-2 (Wiscasset) WIN

1st doubles: -Maria West (sophomore) and Paige Davenport (freshman) (Wiscasset) vs. Michaela Gervais (senior) and Kaylei Robichaud (junior) (Oak Hill) -Set 1: 6-3 (Wiscasset) -Set 2: 6-3 (Wiscasset) WIN

2nd doubles: -Kateleen Trask (sophomore) and Kaitlyn Main (sophomore) (Wiscasset) vs. Rachel Gilbert (junior) and Hayley Salger (junior) (Oak Hill) -Set 1: 6-3 (Wiscasset) -Set 2: 6-4 (Wiscasset) WIN

Overall match: 4-1 win for Wiscasset

In their first meet of the season, on Tuesday, April 24 at Medomak Valley High School, the Wiscasset Middle School boys and girls track and field teams' 21 athletes earned several first-place finishes in the meet with Camden Rockport Middle School, Medomak Middle School, Saint George School, Boothbay Region Elementary School and North Haven School.

Vernon Smith placed first in the boys 55 meter hurdles with a time of 10.98. The boys 4x400 relay team, comprised of Payton Blagdon, Danny Lackie, Smith and Connor Robertson, completed the 4x400 relay in 4:54 for a first place finish. Connor Robertson and David Andersson earned second and third place finishes, respectively, in the 1600 meter run with times of 6:09.39 and 6:23.99. They also took second and third in the high jump, with Robertson jumping 4-4 and Andersson clearing 4-2. Robertson took second in the 800 meter run in 2:46.29. Jason Caton threw the discus 68-2.5 for third place and the javelin 82-4 for second place.

“It was great to see our athletes, many of whom were experiencing a track meet for the first time, come out and earn so many points for the team,” said coach Jake McCarthy. “Now that we have a better idea of where our strengths are, I think we’re looking at some productive practices this week and an even more competitive performance at the next meet.”

Marguerita Fairfield jumped 3-8 for a third place finish in the high jump and Linnea Andersson took fourth in the 800m race walk in 5:30.58.

Camden Rockport Middle School won the girls meet with 248 total points while Wiscasset earned 12 points for fifth place. Medomak won the boys meet with 158 points to Wiscasset’s third-place 92 points.

The next Wiscasset Middle School track meet is Wednesday, May 2 at Wiscasset Middle High School against Boothbay Region Elementary School, Great Salt Bay Community School and Jefferson Village School. The meet starts at 3:30 p.m.

Three local men have started a project to locate, maintain and restore the Heritage apple trees at all the preserves on the Boothbay peninsula. Two of them, Ron Ross and Fred Kraeuter, are crazy for Heritage apple trees, but they weren’t always.

They moved here from New Jersey in 2010, when they bought a house and 3 ½ acres of land on River Road in Boothbay. “We had an apple tree in New Jersey,” Ross said. “It died and we cut it down. When we bought this place it came with seven apple trees, all bearing fruit.”

The trees hadn’t been well cared for. The men took it upon themselves to start learning about apples, thanks to a Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association (MOFGA) program. Their interest was piqued, and now Heritage apples trees have become a passion.

Apples have played a key role in Maine life for 400 years, according to MOFGA. The Maine Heritage Apple Orchard at MOFGA’s Common Ground Education Center in Unity is the headquarters for rare apple trees that originated in Maine. The first trees there were planted in 2001, and new varieties are being added each year.

Ross said apple trees are everywhere in Maine. “In early years almost every farmer had a backyard orchard,” Ross said. “Apples were critical for getting through the winter because they kept so well.” Over the years, many of those varieties have been lost.

Ross, Kraeuter and Boothbay Region Land Trust lands manager Michael Warren are determined to bring them back, through grafting, propagating, planting and pruning. Grafting is the method used to start new varieties. Generic apple tree rootstocks, or bases, are planted, and scionwood twigs or buds from different varieties of heritage apple trees are grafted onto them.

Ross said each tree is grafted with just one type of apple bud, but it’s possible to use branches from several different varieties. “I could do it but it annoys me.” The property does have one old tree grafted using leftover twigs. “We call it the Frankenstein Tree,” he said.

Last year, Ross started talking to Warren about all the different apple trees on the peninsula’s 26 preserves. “Michael has been taking care of them as best he could, but he’s one person,” Ross said.

They started formulating a plan, and the Apple Core was born. There are now eight trained volunteers helping them, and they are starting to identify the location of the trees and removing old bark from them. When the trees start bearing fruit, the group will begin identifying the different varieties. Now the work is being done at Oak Point Preserve, where the new BRLT headquarters are. Then, the group will head to Penny Lake Preserve in Boothbay Harbor, Singing Meadows in Edgecomb, Ocean Point Preserve in East Boothbay and others.

“Our hope is to reach a point where one or two volunteers will each adopt a half dozen apple trees and take care of them,” Ross said. “We’re not looking for big harvests at this point; we’re focusing on the health of the trees.”

The seven trees that were on the land around the house when Ross and Kraeuter bought their property have been restored and are pruned annually, bringing them back to their former glory. The men started planting, and grafting new trees and now have 12, and 60 across the road, with 50 different varieties.

Ross’s favorite of the mature trees on the property around the house is a Nodhead. The variety was discovered in 1823 in New Hampshire by a farmer named Samuel Jewett, he said. “When Samuel walked his head bobbed, so his apples became known as Nodheads.” Last fall the tree produced over 3,000 apples.

BRLT’s office and marketing coordinator Christine Selman is volunteer coordinator for the project. She is enthusiastic about it. “We’re very excited to have Ron and Fred share their expertise with us and the volunteers. The Apple Core Program is helping BRLT to address a significant area of our management plan for Oak Point Farm, so it’s really exciting that we’re getting this underway. We want the program to encompass the trees across all of our preserves.”

“Apple trees are great,” Ross said. “The history of the different varieties, and the subtleties of the tastes and textures. It’s like fine wines. I used to scoff at people who said they could taste those subtle tastes, but the truth is that when you taste an apple, you really can taste them.

“No two seeds in an apple are the same. Just like people. No two people are identical unless they’re twins. Every seed will produce a different kind of apple.”

Ross and Kraeuter hosted an apple-tasting at BRLT last fall. Another is planned for this fall. “We tasted 10 different apples and I thought sure Nodhead would win,” Ross said. “But my friend John Welsh’s Orange Blenheim beat me out. I think his were just riper than mine.”

This year’s tasting is Sept. 30, two weeks earlier than last year’s. The Orange Blenheims won’t be quite as ripe.

Selman encourages anyone interested in volunteering for the project to call the land trust at 633-4818. “We would love to have this program grow and hope that it will be a fun way for people to participate in the land trust, and learn a lot of really interesting information,” she said.

Pitcher August Moore worked five innings and Makayla Bailey had two runs batted in to lead the Wolverine softball team to its first win of the season over Mount Abram at Strong Saturday, April 28.

“The game was called after four and a half innings with us ahead 15-3,” Coach Gordon Campbell said afterwards. “Before the game started, I urged our girls to be patient at the plate; they were and it paid off for us.”

Campbell awarded Bailey a game ball afterwards. “She earned it, she had two solid hits for us.”

Moore, the team’s veteran pitcher, had a good performance on the mound. “She pitched very well and the girls played well behind her defensively."

With two outs and the based loaded, the Wolverines picked up two runs when Corey Campbell bounced a grounder to the mound and the Roadrunner pitcher threw the ball over the first baseman’s head. Kelsey Jones played a solid game defensively at shortstop and Lindsey Gordon did a good job filling in at first base, Coach Campbell added.

The game was scheduled to be played in Wiscasset but was moved to Mt. Abram because the Wolverines' field was too wet. At Jay the day before, the Wolverines lost 11-3 to Spruce Mountain High School.

“August held them to just one run through four innings but we just couldn’t get our bats going,” said Coach Campbell. The rain started falling and the game was called in the sixth inning. On April 23, at Monmouth Academy the Mustangs shut out Wiscasset 12-0.

The Wolverines’ win boosted them up to number seven in the Class D South Heal Standings putting them ahead of winless Forest Hills, Rangley and Temple high schools.

In baseball action, Luke Kearing homered and singled twice for Mt. Abram leading the Roadrunners to a 16-0 win over the Wolverines on Saturday, April 28. The Roadrunners won in five innings, the game being shortened due to the mercy rule. Hunter Warren and Kearing both pitched for Mt. Abram who improved their record to 2-2. Wiscasset fell to 0-4.

Ronald Drake started and pitched three innings for the Wolverines with Hayden Dunning finishing up in relief. Dunning held the Roadrunners to just one hit, a homerun to Kearing. He struck out two batters. The game was scheduled to be played in Wiscasset April 25 but was rained out and rescheduled to April 28. It was moved to Strong because the wet weather had left the Wiscasset field unusable.

“Their field was the best one we’ve played on all season,” Coach Gregg Wood said.

James Hodson had a base hit for the Wolverines.

The afternoon before, the Wolverines scored their first run of the season at Jay but lost 18-1 to Spruce Mountain High School. Ronald Drake singled three times and drove in the lone Wolverine run.

"He hit the ball really hard on the ground through the left side and scored Matt Eckert who had reached on a walk,” said the coach.

Nick Lombardi homered twice for the Phoenix, driving in four runs. “He really crushed the first one, the ball clearing the left field fence,” Coach Wood said.

Andrew Hendrickson pitched the whole game for Wiscasset and took the loss.

Hayden Dunning and Kyle St. Pierre both reached base on an error.

The Wolverines were set to travel to Boothbay Wednesday, May 2 to play the Seahawks, and host Dirigo Friday, May 4.  

Tuesday, May 1, girls results: 1st Singles: -Kayla Delano (Sophomore)(Wiscasset) vs. Carleen Hutchinson (Senior)(Dirigo) -Set 1: 10-5 (Dirigo) Loss

2nd Singles: -Cara Viele(Sophomore)(Wiscasset) vs. Adrianna Belskis (Sophomore)( Dirigo ) -Set 1: 10-2 ( Dirigo ) Loss

3rd Singles: -Sarah Foley(Senior) (Wiscasset) vs. Alyssa McTyre (Sophomore)( Dirigo ) -Set 1: 10-8 ( Dirigo) Loss

1st Doubles: -Maria West (Sophomore) and Paige Davenport (Freshman)(Wiscasset) vs. Page Lewders (Freshman) and Alexis Holman (Sophomore)( Dirigo ) -Set 1: 10-4 ( Dirigo ) Loss

2nd Doubles: -Kateleen Trask (Sophomore) and Kaitlyn Main (Sophomore)(Wiscasset) vs.Emily Jameson (Sophomore) and Karlei Carrier (Sophomore)( Dirigo ) -Set 1: 10-0 ( Dirigo) Loss

Overall Match: 5-0 loss for Wiscasset.Resulting record: 1-2

Monday, April 30, girls results:

1st Singles: -Kayla Delano (Sophomore)(Wiscasset) vs. Maddie Gaudette (Senior)(Boothbay) -Set 1: 6-0 (Boothbay) -Set 2: 6-3 (Boothbay) Loss

2nd Singles: -Cara Viele(Sophomore)(Wiscasset) vs. Eve Dolloff(Senior)(Oak Hill) -Set 1: 6-1 (Boothbay) -Set 2: 6-1 (Boothbay) Loss

3rd Singles: -Sarah Foley(Senior) (Wiscasset) vs. Delly Clarkson(Sophomore)(Boothbay) -Set 1: 6-1 (Boothbay) -Set 2: 6-1 (Boothbay) Loss

1st Doubles: -Maria West (Sophomore) and Paige Davenport (Freshman)(Wiscasset) vs. Sam Clarkson (Senior) and Kayla Lewis (Senior)(Boothbay) -Set 1: 6-3 (Boothbay) -Set 2: 6-3 (Boothbay) Loss

2nd Doubles: -Kateleen Trask (Sophomore) and Kaitlyn Main (Sophomore)(Wiscasset) vs. Annie Bryer (Senior) and Isabel Harkins (Freshman)(Boothbay) -Set 1: 6-3 (Boothbay) -Set 2: 6-1 (Boothbay) Loss

Overall Match: 5-0 Loss for Wiscasset Resulting record: 1-1

In boys action, Boothbay Region High School defeated Wiscasset Monday, April 30.

In first singles, Boothbay’s Rowan Kristan defeated Jesse Perkins, 10-10 (7-5). In second singles, Boothbay’s Henry Drapeau defeated Ben Masten, 10-7. Wiscasset’s Trinan Jeffrey won the third singles match, 10-7, over Max Hoecker.

Boothbay won both doubles matches: Cody Field and Mason Erhard defeated John Hodson and Dylan Orr, 10-1, and Ryan Russell and Patrick Conlin won by default.

Cedrick Loyola cleared 5-8 in the high jump, a new personal best, and Wiscasset won both the 4 x 100 and 4 x 800 relay races at Tuesday’s four-school meet Wiscasset Middle High School hosted.

Loyola was second in the event behind Madison’s Reid Campbell, who cleared 5-8 in fewer attempts. Josh Gabriel cleared a height of 5-6 and placed third.

Matt Chapman led the Wolverines in team scoring with 12 points. He won the 110-meter hurdles, crossing the finish line in 17.84 seconds and the 300-meter hurdles, 42.72 – his best time this season.

Madison won the meet with 88 points, followed WMHS with 76, Winthrop 70 and Dirigo 17. It was the second qualifying meet of the season.

The Wolverine 4 x 800 relay team of Sam Strozier, Nate Gilliam and Gabriele brothers Josh and Caleb bested the team from Winthrop in a winning time of 10:17.96.

The 4 x 100 relay of Chapman, Caleb Gabriele, Cedrick Loyola and Chris Loyola won in 48:54, edging out the Madison team, which finished second, 49.07 followed by Winthrop, 50.18.

Chris Loyola placed second in the 100-meter, 12.5 seconds behind Madison’s Darin Libby whose winning time was 11.81.

Caleb Gabriele placed second in the 800-meter in 2:30.17 and right on the heels of winner Madison’s Nate McGray, 2:30.09.

Gilliam came in second behind Madison’s Jack Babin in the 3,200. Babin’s winning time was 11:57, Gilliam’s time was 13:02.

The Wolverines ruled the triple jump, sweeping four of the top five spots and picking up 15 points. Strozier’s winning jump measured 38-5, Josh Gabriele was second at 37-9, Cedrick Loyola third, 37-7 and Max Sampson fourth, 37-3.

WMHS finished second, third and fourth in the long jump won by Madison’s Darin Libby, who jumped 20-1. Sampson’s second place jump measured 19-8. The Loyola brothers followed Chris at 17-9 and Cedrick, 17-6.

Chris Loyola also placed third in the 200-meter in 26.02. Darin Libby’s winning time for Madison was 24.54. Beu Schmelzier was second at 25.95.

Girls results

Ayanna Stover won two individual events and ran the final leg of the 4 x 100 relay the Wolverines won.

Overall, Wiscasset finished third behind Winthrop which won the meet handily, scoring 96 points, followed by Madison 45, WMHS 43 and Dirigo 16. Seventeen events were scored.

Stover won the 100-meter hurdles with a time of 17.17 seconds picking up six team points for the Wolverines. Stover got out of the blocks smoothly and sprinted ahead of Winthrop’s Sierra Huff and Gia Francis who placed second and third respectively at 19.12 and 22.27.

Stover added six more points by winning the long jump, leaping 15-10. Just one inch separated the second and third place finishers. Wiscasset’s Grace Webber's jump measured 15-9 and Winthrop’s Aaliyah Wilson-Falcone's measured 15-8.

Vanessa Dunn won the 300-meter hurdles, crossing the finish line in 54.91 – her best time of the season. Winthrop’s Huff was a distant second. Dunn placed fifth in the 100-meter, 14.7, won by Jill Schmelzer of Winthrop, 13.29.

The Wolverines’ 4 x100 relay team of Gwen Webber, Dunn, Grace Webber and Stover defeated teams from Winthrop and Madison in a winning time of 53.94.

Freshman Gwen Webber won her second high jumping event of the season, clearing 4-8 – her personal best. She also placed third in the 100-meter, 14.39.

Lily Souza had a strong afternoon in the weights competition. She placed in three field events, picking up five team points. Souza was third in the shot put, 26-5 and took fifth place in both the javelin 56-9 and discus, 58-2.

Coach Josh Winchenbach and the Wolverines will be in Lisbon at 3:45 p.m. next Wednesday when they’ll compete again against Madison, along with athletes from Spruce Mountain and Mt. Abram.

Lisbon will also host this season’s Mountain Valley Conference meet set for Thursday, May 24.

Cameron Crocker struck out 14 batters over six and a third innings and Boothbay Region went on to defeat visiting Wiscasset Middle High School 10-3 Wednesday.

Crocker held the Wolverines hitless until the fifth inning when Ryan Potter spoiled the no-hitter by beating out a slow roller down the third base line. Brett Hollowell pitched an inning in relief for the Seahawks, striking out four batters.

Boothbay scored two runs in the first inning off Ronald Drake, the Wolverines’ starting pitcher. One of the runs was unearned. Leadoff batter Hunter Crocker walked on four pitches, quickly stole second and scored on an overthrow as he was attempting to steal third. Drake then struck out Steve Reny but Hollowell drew a base-on-balls and Cameron Crocker singled, driving in the second run.

The Seahawks added two more runs in the third after Andrew Hendrickson came in to relieve. Hollowell delivered the big blow, an RBI, a double. Crocker walked and later scored from third on a pass ball. Wiscasset turned a double play to end the inning when Nick Simpson popped out to the Wolverine catcher, Josh Dualan, who alertly threw to first baseman Matt Eckert who then put the tag on the runner, Jay Hasch.

In the fourth inning Crocker tripled, driving in Colby Babcock who had reached on an error, putting Boothbay up 5-0. The Seahawks added one more run, unearned, before the inning ended. Boothbay added three more runs in the fifth and another run in the sixth.

All three Wiscasset runs came in the sixth inning. After Eckert doubled to left, he stole third and scored on a wild pitch. With one out, James Hodson then singled, scoring Ron Drake who walked. Hodson made his way around to third and scored on a pass ball.

Dualan worked an inning and two thirds in relief for Wiscasset, striking out two batters. Fox Elder had a double for Boothbay.

The win was the first one for Boothbay who recently lost 1-0 to Telstar. Wiscasset at 0-5 is still looking for its first win.

The Wolverines are scheduled to host Dirigo Friday,with the first pitch set for 4 p.m.

Hey kids, do you have the baseball skills to maybe someday be a Major League player? Find out at Scotts® Major League Baseball Pitch Hit & Run competition Wiscasset Parks and Recreation is hosting from 9 a.m. to noon, Saturday, May 12 at the Wiscasset Middle High School field.

The event is open to area boys and girls. Entrants will be divided into four age divisions: 7-8, 9-10, 11-12 and 13-14. Participants register the day of the event and must have a copy of their birth certificate and have their parent or guardian present to fill out a registration and waiver form prior to the start.

There’s no charge to take part. Competitors have a chance to show off their skills in pitching, hitting and running.

This is the second straight year Parks and Recreation has hosted the event. The department’s youth sports program coordinator, Duane Goud, facilitates it. “Kids that want to take part should bring along their glove, cleats and favorite bat if they have one,” he said.

Wolverine varsity baseball coach Gregg Wood will be on hand, added Goud.

This is a great opportunity for youngsters to test their skills and possibly advance to the next level of competition, at Old Orchard, May 20. Team championships are held at Major League ballparks.

The 2018 National Pitch Hit & Run Finals are held during the MLB All-Star Week in July.

Celebrate the spring weather with a guided meditation walk, taking in the sights and smells of the forest as it begins to come alive. The Kennebec Estuary Land Trust (KELT) invites you to take some time to forget the stressors in your life and experience the calming power of our natural landscape. Join KELT volunteer and Bath resident Tim Blair at the City of Bath’s Butler Head Preserve on Saturday, May 12 shortly before 9 a.m. The walk will give participants an opportunity to fully experience nature by bringing focus and attention to all the senses while walking through this beautiful preserve. Tim will provide a brief introduction to mindful walking in nature which will include instructions on bringing focus and attention to walking, seeing, and hearing. Most of the walk will be done in silence with occasional guidance and reminders from Tim.

Butler Head Preserve is owned by the City of Bath and protected by a conservation easement held by KELT. The Bath Community Forestry Committee maintains the trail network and manages the property. At 141 acres, Butler Head Preserve is forested with shoreline along Merrymeeting Bay and Butler Cove. The walk will last approximately one hour and cover easy to moderate terrain. This event is light rain or shine and will be rescheduled in the event of heavy rain. Let us know you will be joining us by contacting Anna Christie-Carnicella at acarnicella@kennebecestuary.org, call 207-442-8400, or sign-up online at www.kennebecestuary.org/mindful-meditation-walk.

Tim Blair is a nonprofit systems consultant living in Bath and is a teacher of the Mindfulness Based Stress Reducation Program (MBSR), an eight-week class that helps participants cope more effectively with short and long-term stressors using meditation, group discussion, and gentle yoga.

To get to Butler Head Preserve: From Bath, follow Oak Grove Ave. north and continue as it becomes Whiskeag Rd. Turn right on North Bath Road and travel north until you reach Varney Mill Rd. Turn right and continue north until you see Butler Head Rd. (Google Maps calls it Butler’s Cove Rd.) on the left and the sign for Butler Head Preserve. Turn left and follow the road to the first parking area and kiosk.

FMI visit www.kennebecestuary.org or call (207) 442-8400.

Ashley Perrault’s bases loaded single broke up a 4-4 tie and the Dirigo Cougars went on to an 8-5 softball win over host Wiscasset Middle High School Friday afternoon.

The Wolverines took an early lead scoring four runs in the first inning without the benefit of a hit. Lindsey Gordon, the lead-off batter, drew a walk on four pitches, stole second and third and scored on a pass ball. Maeve Blodgett then walked, Kelsey Jones was hit by a pitch and Sydnie Thayer drew a base on balls to load the bases.

Blodgett scored on a wild pitch and August Moore walked, loading the bases again. Leah Potter, the number six hitter, drove in Jones when she grounded out. Clara Mugnai then walked, loading the bases for the third time in the inning. Ashley Perrault was then brought in to pitch, relieving Cougar starter Sophie Jacques. Corey Campbell grounded out, scoring Thayer from third. Moore was then tagged out at the plate attempting to steal home, ending the inning.

Moore started and pitched the whole game for the Wolverines. She held the Dirigo batters hitless until the third inning when Jacques doubled, driving in Lillie Williams who had walked. The Cougars added two more runs before the inning ended.

After a scoreless fourth inning, Dirigo tied the game 4-4 in the fifth. Jacques led off with a triple to right and scored on an overthrow to third base.

Dirigo added three insurance runs in the seventh inning. Lillie Williams, the number nine batter, drove in two runs with an line drive single.

Wiscasset made some really nice defensive plays including turning a double play in the first inning. Katie Morse, the Cougar cleanup hitter, popped up to catcher Corey Campbell who threw down to first baseman Clara Mugnai who applied the tag on Vicky Auerili.

Left fielder Gordon made two nice running catches for the Wolverines and Leah Potter gloved a well-hit flyball to right field.

The Wolverines will host Mt. Valley Wednesday, May 9.

The next time you head down Route 27 toward Route 1 in Edgecomb and bear north, take note of what a couple is doing to beautify their land opposite Cod Cove Inn.

Ken and Lena True, formerly of Wiscasset, married last July and bought their Edgecomb home.

They won’t see the handiwork from their house, which sits back from the road and behind the rise they’re spending a lot of time sprucing up, building small stone walls and planting flowers and plants on. They’re doing it for the benefit of passers-by. The inn's visitors will also look over to it. “And we’ll see it as we come and go to and from the house,” Lena said.

The land had to be cleared of a lot of small trees, bushes and weeds before the beautifying began. The rocks for the stone walls were dug from the land. And as professional as their project looks, the Trues said they’re not professional gardeners. “We just enjoy doing it,” Ken  said.

They’re a little concerned about a Central Maine Power pole in the middle of it, though. It stands just behind one of the small rock-lined plantings of a few Asian lilies. The pole has been designated for removal. The Trues hope that won’t happen until fall, as the results probably won't enhance their roadside gardens.

Meanwhile, enjoy the fruits of their labors when you're driving by.

The Wolverines track team went head to head against the best athletes of eastern Maine at the Brewer Invitational Relay Carnival Saturday.

Coach Josiah Winchenbach was pleased with the performance of his 15-member team. “Amazing,” is how he described Brewer High School’s track and field facilities. The weather couldn’t have been better for the competition involving over 100 boy and girl athletes.

“I think we did quite well, considering we were competing against class A, B and a few C teams,” he added. The meet included teams from Belfast, Brewer, Caribou, Central, George Stevens Academy, Hampden, John Bapst, Maine Central Institute, Old Town, Orono, Presque Isle and Washington Academy.

Due to declining enrollment, Wiscasset Middle High School dropped to class D athletic status but continues to compete at the Class C level.

The Wolverines’ Max Sampson won the boys triple jump besting a field of 36 jumpers by leaping 41-1 – a new personal best.

Sampson’s teammate Josh Gabriele placed seventh in the triple jump, 38-4, his best distance of the season. Wolvetirines Sam Strozier finished ninth, 37-7 and Cedrick Loyola 10^th at 37-2. Sampson came in fifth in the long jump at 19-5.5. The winning jump measured 20-11.5. Over 50 jumpers competed. The Loyola brothers, Cedrick and Chris, were 15^th and 16^th at 17-4.5 and 17-4, respectively.

Cedrick Loyola tied for sixth, clearing 5-4 in the high jump. Three jumpers cleared 6-0, the winning height.

WMHS's 4 by 200 relay team of Chris Loyola, Caleb Gabriele, Strozier and Matt Chapman placed sixth, recording a time of 1:43.79. Winchenbach reported the girls 4 by 100 team of Gwen Webber, Vanessa Dunn, Grace Webber and Ayanna Stover took first place in 51.52; 24 relay teams competed.

The same four girls made up the 4 by 200 relay team and finished third among 22 entries, recording a time of 1:57.

In the girls 3 by 60-meter shuttle hurdle, the three-member team of Gwen Webber, Dunn and Stover placed third in 32.72 seconds. They were bested by Brewer High School’s A and B entries.

Stover and Grace Webber placed fifth and sixth in the long jump with distances of 15-5.5 and 15-4.75; there were 60 entries.

Lily Souza finished tied for 13^th in the shot put throwing a distance of 26-0; the winning toss measured 36-0.

The coach said the first place winners were awarded a customized BIRC Champion shirt.

With the arrival of May and warming weather, Wiscasset Speedway moved its weekly race program to Saturday evening. With the backdrop of one of the track's signature sunsets, Group 1 divisions gathered for their second week of competition.

The ServPro of Biddeford-Saco Prostocks had center stage with a 50-lap spotlight feature. Wiscasset's Nick Hinkley started mid-pack and took advantage of a handful of early cautions, all for minor spins, and picked his way into the lead of the 13 car field by lap 6. From there he settled into a comfortable half straightaway advantage to secure his first Prostock win since 2016. Hinkley is the reigning Late Model champion. Defending Prostock champ Daren Ripley of Thomaston turned in a runner-up finish in his season debut. Ajay Picard of Palmyra picked up his second straight 3rd place finish.

Other winners on the evening included Wiscasset's Josh Bailey grabbing his second straight 25-lap feature win in the Maxwell's Market Super Streets. He was joined in victory lane by fellow 2-time champ Jason Oakes of Boothbay and Neil Evans of Randolph. Hayden Norris of West Gardiner equaled Bailey's feet by grabbing his second straight win in the Cahill Tire 4-cylinder Pros 25-lap contest. A shake-up in post-race inspection resulted in Connor Wenners of Edgecomb taking 2nd and Taylor Lane of Phillips taking home 3rd. Spencer Sweatt of Albion was a runaway winner in the Thunder 4 Minis 25-lap feature. David Greenleaf of Brunswick made a last lap pass to claim a career-best 2nd place finish. Noah Hagget of Woolwich was 3rd.

Wiscasset Speedway returns to action on Saturday, May 12 with Group 2 in action, featuring Wood Peller Warehouse Late Model Sportsman, K&A Property Services Modifieds, Norms Used Cars Strictly Streets, and Kennebec Equipment Rental Outlaw Minis. The program will also welcome the Wicked Good Vintage Racers for their first of three appearances this season. Racing action begins at 5 p.m. Admission is just $5 for grandstands, with kids 6 & under free. Pit admission is $20 for all. Wiscasset Speedway is located on the West Alna Road in Wiscasset. For photos, information, season schedule, rules and more, go to www.wiscassetspeedway.com. 

Wiscasset Speedway Official Top 5 results 5/5/18

SERVPRO OF BIDDEFORD SACO PROSTOCKS (50 LAPS)

CAHILL TIRE 4-CYLINDER PROS (25 LAPS)

MAXWELLS MARKET SUPER STREETS (25 LAPS)

THUNDER 4 MINI (25 LAPS)

Wiscasset Community Center and the area had multiple representatives at Saturday’s Polar Bear Triathlon at Bowdoin College in Brunswick, including one who took his age group. 

In men’s 19 and under, first place went to Walpole’s Braxton Farrin, representing WCC. Fifth place in the same age group went to Wiscasset’s Nathan Gilliam, also representing WCC.

Tommy Thelander and Jordan Farrin of Lincoln Academy also competed. 

Going into the May 2 match with Mt. Valley, Wiscasset was 1-2.

1st Singles: -Kayla Delano (Sophomore)(Wiscasset) vs. Brooke Carver (Senior)(Mt. Valley) -Set 1: 10-1 (Mt. Valley) Loss

2nd Singles: -Cara Viele(Sophomore)(Wiscasset) vs. Alina Furbeth (Sophomore)( Mt. Valley ) -Set 1: 10-0 ( Mt. Valley) Loss

3rd Singles: -Sarah Foley(Senior) (Wiscasset) vs. Kierstyn Lyons (Sophomore)( Mt. Valley ) -Set 1: 10-5 ( Wiscasset ) WIN

1st doubles: -Maria West (Sophomore) and Paige Davenport (Freshman)(Wiscasset) vs. Avery Sevigny (Sophomore) and Rylee Sevigny (Freshman)( Mt. Valley ) -Set 1: 10-0 ( Mt. Valley ) Loss

2nd doubles: -Kateleen Trask (Sophomore) and Kaitlyn Main (Sophomore)(Wiscasset) vs. Sarah Cunningham (Junior) and Kylee Pelletier (Junior)( Mt. Valley ) -Set 1: 10-3 ( Mt. Valley ) Loss

Overall match: 4-1 loss for Wiscasset

Going into the May 7 match with Winthrop, Wiscasset was 1-3.

1st singles: -Kayla Delano (Sophomore)(Wiscasset) vs. Nora Conrad (Junior)(Winthrop) -Set 1: 6-1 (Winthrop) -Set 2: 6-1 (Winthrop) Loss

2nd singles: -Cara Viele(Sophomore)(Wiscasset) vs. Gabby Blanco(Sophomore)(Winthrop) -Set 1: 6-0 (Winthrop) -Set 2: 6-0 (Winthrop) Loss

3rd singles: -Sarah Foley(Senior) (Wiscasset) vs. Natalie Frost(Sophomore)(Winthrop) -Set 1: 6-4 (Winthrop) -Set 2: 6-0 (Winthrop) Loss

1st doubles: -Maria West (Sophomore) and Kateleen Trask (Sophomore)(Wiscasset) vs. Bre Feney (Junior) and Alexis Emery (Sophomore)(Winthrop) -Set 1: 6-1 (Winthrop) -Set 2: 6-2 (Winthrop) Loss

2nd doubles: -Eliza Paradis (Freshman) and Kaitlyn Main (Sophomore)(Wiscasset) vs. Dana Lesko (Freshman) and Hannah Doley (Freshman)(Winthrop) -Set 1: 6-2 (Winthrop) -Set 2: 6-3 (Winthrop) Loss

Overall match: 0-5 loss for Wiscasset Resulting record: 1-4

Hayden Dunning homered for the Wolverines but visiting Mountain Valley won big, 22-4, in a game called after five innings.

Dunning’s solo blast came in the third off Falcon starter Jacob Blanchard who was working on a one-hit shutout. After fouling off a pitch, Dunning worked the count to 3-1, then connected on an off-speed pitch sending the baseball for a ride over the left field fence.

The Falcon battery put 14 runs on the scoreboard in the first inning. Dylan Desroches provided the big blast, a grand slam off Wolverine starter Matt Eckert. It was the first game Eckert has pitched for the Wolverines this season; most of those runs were unearned, coming on errors.

Blanchard drove in two runs with a single and Ethan Laubauskas had an RBI base hit. Mountain Valley sent 19 batters to the plate before the inning ended with Andrew Hendrickson pitching in relief. Wolverine left fielder Ryan Potter gloved the final out running down a towering fly ball hit by Cody Hemingway.

The Falcons added three more runs in the second, with Desroches driving in two of those with a single. They added four more in the third inning, and an unearned run in the fourth.

The Wolverines got their first hit of the game in the home half of the first inning. With two away, James Hodson doubled deep to left field. The ball was well struck carrying over the fielder’s head.

Wiscasset’s three other runs came in the fifth inning on Falcon reliever Curtis Gauvin. C.J. Robert led off the inning with a base hit. Eckert followed, drawing a base on balls. Ronald Drake singled driving in Robert, and James Hodson beat out a grounder to load the bases.

Potter’s ground ball scored Eckert and a bases loaded walk to Dualan accounted for the third run. In the fourth inning, Wolverine Archie Brewer made a nice catch on a fly ball to right field. Josh Dualan pitched the final two innings for Wiscasset and held the Falcons hitless.

Following the game, Coach Gregg Wood awarded a game ball to Dunning.

The Wolverines, Class D in athletic status, are still looking for their first win this season. They’ll travel to Oak Hill to play the Raiders Friday, May 11, returning to host Telstar Monday, May 14.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Bath/Brunswick is pleased to announce that “The Big Swing,” the organization’s annual golf tournament, will be held on Sept. 14 at the Brunswick Golf Club, 165 River Road, Brunswick.

Limited to thirty-two teams of four, the roster fills quickly so early registration is encouraged. Teams of four may register for $500, or individual golfers may sign up for $150. Fees include eighteen holes with a cart, lunch, awards and prizes. Registrations may be completed by visiting the website, bbbsbathbrunswick.org.

Sponsorship opportunities are available. For details, please contact Christine Force at 207-729-7736 or via email at Christine@bbbsbathbrunswick.org, or visit the website at bbbsbathbrunswick.org.

Funds collected at “The Big Swing” support and maintain the one-on-one mentoring relationships between at-risk youths and an adult or older student volunteer. These relationships greatly improve the chance for success for the youths facing adversity. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Bath/Brunswick does not receive any state or federal funding, community support allows the continuation of effective early intervention.

For more information, contact: Lindsay MacDonald, executive director, 207-729-7736 or via email at director@bbbsbathbrunswick.org.

Pitcher August Moore notched her second win of the season and Casey Farrah went 4-for-4 at the plate leading the Wolverines to a 13-3 softball win over Mountain Valley at Wiscasset Middle High School Wednesday, May 9.

Moore struck out two batters in going the distance for the Wolverines. Farrah drove in two runs with a double in the third and singled three times. Sydnie Thayer rapped a triple, and Kelsey Jones had an extra base it, singled and scored three times for Wiscasset.

Lindsey Gordon, who walked three times, scored three runs for WMHS. In the fifth inning she made a diving catch in left field robbing the Falcons’ Nicole McKenna of an extra base hit.

“It’s nice to see our hitting come around,” Coach Gordon Campbell said after the game. “We played very well defensively too. They threatened to score in the first inning but we held them.”

Maeve Blodgett, Corey Campbell and Liz Pratt all had base hits for the Wolverines. Taylor Henry had two hits for the visitors and Audra Bean was the losing pitcher. Wiscasset put two runs on the scoreboard in the first inning and then added a run in the second and third. The Falcons made it a 3-1 ballgame with an unearned run in the third.

Coach Campbell said his team put the game away scoring three runs in the fifth and six more in the sixth. “We were more aggressive running the bases this afternoon.”

The win followed a disappointing loss for WMHS at Lisbon, 16-15, in seven innings on Monday, May 7. Moore pitched all seven innings and took the loss. Gordon had two hits, one in the fifth inning and another in the sixth. Potter, Blodgett and Jones had base hits. The Greyhounds’ two pitchers walked a combined 20 batters. Mallory Fairbanks was credited with the win.

WMHS will travel to Wales to play Oak Hill Friday, May 11, returning home to play Telstar Monday, May 14 at 4:30 p.m. On May 18, the team will take on Carrabec.

Wolverine Grace Webber topped a field of 22 runners from five high schools to win the 100-meter dash at Lisbon Tuesday, May 8. Other high schools competing were Spruce Mountain, Madison and Oak Hill.

Webber’s winning time was 13.29 seconds; her sister, Gwen Webber, placed third in the 100 at 14.30. Grace also captured the 200-meter race with a winning time of 27:22.

Wolverines Vanessa Dunn and Ayanna Stover had another strong afternoon. Dunn won the 300-meter hurdles, crossing the finish line in 53.04, a little more than two seconds ahead of second place finisher Abby Drummond of Spruce Mountain. Earlier in the meet, Stover won the 100-meter hurdles in 16.77. Lisbon’s Destiney Deschaines was second at 17.92.

The Wolverines’ 4x100 relay team of Gwen and Grace Webber, Dunn and Stover placed first in 53.42. Spruce Mountain was second in 54.28 and Lisbon third in 55.31. Gwen Webber cleared a height of 4-2 and won the high jump, Lisbon’s Savannah Fischer was second, clearing 4-0.

Stover placed second in the long jump, 15-1, behind Spruce Mountain’s Hannah St. Pierre who jumped 15-5. Grace Webber placed fifth, 14-7. Spruce Mountain’s Avery Williams won the triple jump, 31-6, while Stover was second at 30-11.

Boys results

Caleb Gabriele won the 800-meter race for the Wolverines with a time of 2:26.57. Madison’s Nate McGray ran second.

Matt Chapman won the 110-meter hurdles in 16.56 seconds. Chapman also won the 300-meter hurdles posting a time of 42.47.

The Wolverines’ 4x100 meter relay team of Chapman, Max Sampson, Caleb Gabriele and Chris Loyola placed second at 48.86. The winning time was 47.32. WMHS captured second, third and fourth places in the triple jump. Max Sampson jumped 37-4, Cedrick Loyola, 37-0 and Josh Gabriele 36-9.5. The winning distance was 37-5.

Max Sampson placed second in the long jump, 19-9.5. The winning jump was 19-11. Chapman placed fourth in the 200-meter dash in 24.37. Nate Gilliam placed fifth in the 3,200-meter race, 13.06.22.

The Wolverines' final home meet of the season is set for Tuesday, May 15 at 4 p.m. with Richmond, Monmouth and Winthrop.

Wiscasset Middle High School hosted a Special Olympics track and field event May 10. There were several hundred participants representing Boothbay, Brunswick, Lincoln Academy, Bath, Great Salt Bay and Coastal Athletes of Damariscotta, Mt. Ararat middle and high schools, RSU 6 and Wiscasset.

It was a chilly night Saturday, May 12 at Wiscasset Speedway. Fans huddled into the coastal Maine race track to cheer on Group 2 racers along with an appearance from the Wicked Good Vintage Racers. Despite the cool temps, the action in the Late Model Sportsman class was as hot as ever. The last two winners of the prestigious Coastal 200 each made a statement to rest of their competitors in the 40-lap feature, starting deep in the 23-car field and grabbing the top two spots in victory lane.

Harrington's Andrew McLaughlin, the defending Coastal 200 champ, methodically picked his way through the pack from his 12th starting position to grab the lead at the halfway marker and run to the feature win; his first since the 2017 Coastal. “If you're gonna win one race a year (as a Late Model driver), that's the one. I still get chills thinking about that race last year,” said McLaughlin. “I want to be the first one to win it back to back.”

One driver that may have a say in whether that happens is 2016 Coastal 200 champ Chris Thorne of Sidney. The four-time LMS champ had perhaps the strongest car in Saturday night's 40-lap tuneup race but never got the opportunity to challenge McLaughlin for the win. The race was slowed by just one early caution. Thorne started 15th and turned in a strong 2nd place finish, still closing in on the leader in the closing laps. In victory lane, Thorne gave a sly grin when saying “If this car goes this well in two weeks, everyone may be in trouble, but we'll see.” J.R. Robinson of Steuben made up the most ground in Saturday's race, starting 18th and reaching 2nd with 10 laps to go. He would give that spot up to Thorne, but still land a solid 3rd place finish in his season debut. The top 5 was rounded out by rookie's Brandon Fowler and Logan Melcher.

In the 30-lap spotlight feature for the K&A Property Services Modifieds, opening day winner Adam Chadbourne of Woolwich made it 2-for-2 on the young season, grabbing an early lead and rolling uncontested for the feature win. The best battle of the race was between Nick Reno and Ryan Chadwick for the runner-up finish. Reno held off the challenge over the closing laps to finish 2nd. Chadwick notched a 3rd place trophy for his season debut. The race went caution free.

The Kennebec Equipment Rental Outlaw Minis race was slowed by just one caution, on lap 1 of the 25 lap feature. Defending champ Jake Hendsbee of Whitefield, who was a runner-up 5 times in his 2017 championship campaign, finally sealed the deal Saturday night in securing his first career Outlaw Mini win. He was chased across the line by former champ Zach Audet of Oakland, who started at the back of the field because he had missed his qualifying race. He had rolled in late after picking up a win at his home track of Speedway 95, adding a 2nd place finish at Wiscasset to his trophy haul for the day. Matt Glidden of Chelsea turned his front row starting spot into s 3rd place finish.

The Norm’s Used Cars Strictly Streets are quickly turning into one of Wiscasset's most exciting and competitive divisions. Their opening day feature went caution free, and Saturday's 25-lap feature netted just one caution. The action was fast and furious with several contenders working their way through traffic to take a shot at the lead. However, Jonathan Emerson of Sabattus had other plans. The third generation racer, who had picked up his first career win just a year earlier, ran a strong race up front and led wire to wire for the feature win. He was joined in victory lane by his father and defending champ Zach Emerson (3rd place) and Dave Whittier the runner-up. Five-time Strictly champ Maurice Young of Chelsea and Ethan Dinsmore of Hope filled out the top 5.

Wicked Good Vintage Racers made their first of three appearances on the 2018 schedule. Winners included Bobby Symonds of Casco in the Early Late Models, Adrien Williams of Warren in the Hobby Class, and Scott  Tucker of Winthrop in the Outlaw Class.

Wiscasset Speedway returns to action Saturday, May 19 with Group 1 in action. The Cahill Tire 4-cylinder Pros will have the spotlight feature, while the “flex” race for the night will be a 100-lap Enduro. Fans will also have one more opportunity Saturday evening to purchase advanced tickets for the Monster Truck Throwdown show presented by Bozzutos Inc on May 25 and 26. Showtimes and details can be found on the Wiscasset Speedway website www.wiscassetspeedway.com.  

Wiscasset Speedway official finish order 5/12/18

K&A PROPERTY SERVICES MODIFIEDS (30 laps - spotlight)

KENNEBEC EQUIPMENT RENTAL OUTLAW MINI (25 laps)

WOOD PELLET WAREHOUSE LATE MODEL SPORTSMAN (40 laps)

NORM’S USED CARS STRICTLY STREETS (25 laps)

Wiscasset Middle High School rallied back with four runs in the sixth inning but lost 9-6 to visiting Telstar in Mountain Valley Conference softball action Monday.

The Wolverines, who were looking for their third win of the season, jumped out to a 2-0 lead in the first inning. Lindsey Gordon led with a single up the middle, stole second, and scored on a line drive base hit by Kelsey Jones.

The Wolverines’ second run came after August Moore grounded out driving in Maeve Blodgett who walked and moved around to third on Jones’s hit.

The Rebels went ahead 3-2 in the second inning. Hannah Evens singled driving in two of the runs. The other run was on a bases loaded walk to Emily Frazier, the number nine batter.

Wolverine pitcher August Moore set the Telstar batters down in order in the third inning. Sydnie Thayer singled with two away in the home half of the inning but the Wolverines left her stranded on second base.

Jodie Forbes’s bases loaded single drove in two Rebel runs in the fourth inning putting Telstar ahead 5-2, and in the fifth, Taylor Mason’s solo home run made it a 6-2 ballgame.

The fifth inning started out promising for the Wolverines with back-to-back singles by Makayla Bailey and Gordon but the next three batters went quietly.

Telstar added two more runs in the sixth with Aneah Bartlett delivering the big blow — a two-run, two-out triple making it an 8-2 ballgame. The Rebels added an insurance run in the seventh.

Wiscasset answered with four runs in the bottom of the sixth. Bailey and Blodgett both had two RBI base hits. Scoring runs were Clara Mugnai, Corey Campbell, Farrah Casey and Bailey. Campbell and Casey both had base hits.

For Wiscssset, Moore pitched the whole game and finished with six strikeouts. Kylee Martin went the distance on the mound for Telstar.

The Wolverines' next two games are on the road — vs. Madison May 18 and Hall-Dale May 21. They’ll return home to face Monmouth May 23 and Carrabec May 29.

Wiscasset Middle High School hosted athletes from Monmouth, Winthrop and Richmond Tuesday in the final home track meet of the season. It rained for most of the meet but the Wolverines held their own with some fine individual performances.

Matthew Chapman remained undefeated on his home track winning the 110-meter hurdles in 16.43 seconds and the 300-meter hurdles in 42.92 seconds.

Joshua Gabriele cleared a height of 5-8 and won the high jump. Richmond’s Ben Young placed second with WMHS’s Cedrick Loyola finishing third. Both Loyola and Young cleared a height of 5-2 but Young did it in fewer attempts.

Chris Loyola won the 200-meter dash with a time of 25.46 seconds. Richmond’s Nick Adams was second, 26.31, followed by Winthrop’s Keegan Choate who ran a close third at 26.48.

The Wolverines once again swept the triple jump. Max Sampson placed first leaping 39-4, Sam Strozier was next at 36-8 and Cedrick Loyola was third, 36-1. Joshua Gabriele finished fifth. His jump measured 33-9.5.

Max Sampson was also first in the long jump, 18-10.5, Cedrick Loyola placed second, 17-7, Winthrop’s Gabe Martin was third 17-6 and Chris Loyola fourth at 17-3.

Chris and Cedrick Loyola placed second and fourth in the 100-meter dash with times of 12.01 and 12.85 seconds respectively. Richmond’s Jordan Perry won the 100 in 11.98 seconds.

The Wolverine 4x100 relay team of Chapman, Sampson, Strozier and Chris Loyola placed first; their winning time was 48.18. Winthrop High School was next, 50.01, followed by Richmond, 52.75.

Josh Jones was sixth in the 400; he crossed the finish line in 1:06.6. Jones was also sixth in the 200 with a time of 28.98 seconds.

Monmouth Academy won the meet scoring 94.5 points, Wiscasset was second with 73, Winthrop High School next, 54.5, and Richmond last, tallying 36 points.

Girls results

Grace Webber won the 200 posting a time of 27.26 seconds, Winthrop’s Jilian Schmelzer and Aaliyah Wilson-Falcone ran second and third with times of 27.86 and 29.71.

Vanessa Dunn placed first in the 300 hurdles; her winning time was 54.03 – that’s a tenth of a second faster than she ran a week earlier at the Lisbon meet.

Grace Webber won the high jump clearing 4-10. Monmouth’s Libby Clement was second at 4-8. Webber also won the long jump, leaping 15-11. Aaliyah Wilson-Falcone of Winthrop was second; her jump measured 15-6.5.

Wiscasset’s 4x100 relay team of Gwen Webber, Vanessa Dunn, Grace Webber and Cara Viele (filling in for the injured Ayanna Stover) finished first with a time of 53.79. Winthrop was second, 54.19, and Monmouth Academy third, 56.08.                           

Other Wolverines who placed included Gwen Webber in the 100 with a time of 14.60. Winthrop’s Jilian Schmelzer winning the 100, 13.5, Monmouth’s Alicen Burnham finished second,14.54. 

Lily Souza came in fifth in the shot put, 23-4. The winning toss was thrown by Destiny Clough of Monmouth 29-6. Souza finished seventh in the javelin; her throw measured 53-6. Monmouth Academy swept the shot put, javelin and discus.

Monmouth Academy won the meet scoring 142.50 points followed by Winthrop High School 58.5, WMHS 36 and Richmond 25.

The Wolverines will compete in the Mountain Valley Conference Meet Thursday, May 24 hosted by Lisbon High School.    

Wiscasset Middle High School track and field athletes competed against 12 other high schools at the Taylor Harmon Capital City Classic hosted by Cony High School on Friday, May 18, in Augusta. 

Coach Josiah Winchenbach saw his Wolverine girls finish seventh overall while the boys placed eighth. Cony won both meets.

Team points were divided among the top seven finishers, 10 points going to the victor, eight for second place, six for third, four for fourth, three for fifth, two for sixth and one for seventh. 

The Wolverines’ Matt Chapman had an impressive afternoon picking up 21 team points. He bested 14 other competitors and won the 110-meter hurdles with a time of 16.5 seconds. Later he beat 22 other entries and won the 300-meter hurdles in 43.65. 

Chapman placed seventh in the 200-meter dash in 25.51. Mountain Valley’s Chris Glover’s winning time in the event was 24.29. There were 53 runners. 

The Wolverines' other individual scorer was Max Sampson. He picked up eight points by placing second in the triple jump, 40’6”. Boothbay Region’s Jay Hasch won, leaping 42’3”.

Sampson added six more points with a third place finish in the long jump, 18’11.5. Matt Albert of Hall-Dale had a winning jump that measured 21’1.5,” Boothbay’s Hasch was second at 19’4. The Wolverines’ 4x100 relay team of Chapman, Sampson, Caleb Gabriel and Chris Loyola placed sixth, crossing the finish line in 49.39. Erskine Academy won in 46.37. 

Final scoring in the boys’ meet: Cony 184.5, Lisbon 84, Erskine Academy 77, Mountain Valley 59, Monmouth Academy 51, Boothbay Region 48.5, Hall-Dale 48, Wiscasset 37, Maranacook 34, Gardiner 8, Dirigo 7, Winthrop 4 and Richmond 1.

Girls results

The Wolverine girls won one event,  the 4x100 relay race. The team of Gwen Webber, Cara Viele, Grace Webber and Avanna Stover won in 53.09 seconds. Cony was second in 54.59, and Winthrop placed third in 55.24. 

Grace Webber picked up a dozen team points by placing second in the long jump, 15’ and fourth in the 200-meter dash, 27.56. Ayanna Stover added eight points finishing third in the 100-meter hurdles, 16.74 and sixth in the 300-hurdles, 53.73.  Gwen Webber tied for fourth in the high jump, clearing 4’6”.

Final scoring in the girls’ meet: Cony 157, Monmouth Academy 136, Lisbon 65, Maranacook 60, Winthrop 60, Erskine Academy 50, Wiscasset 33, Mountain Valley 31,Hall-Dale 15, Gardiner 13, Richmond 13, Oak Hill 13 and Dirigo 1.

The Mountain Valley Conference meet is at 1 p.m. Thursday, May 24 at Lisbon High School.