Wins were pretty scarce for Wiscasset Middle High School’s athletic teams this school year but the Wolverines set the bar high for their Mountain Valley Conference rivals. They received the Maine Principals Association Good Sportsmanship Award in every season, earning five banners over the course of the 2018-2019 school year.

“It’s an awesome achievement,” said WMHS’ assistant principal and athletic director Warren Cossette.  “I don’t think there’s a high school anywhere in the state where this has ever happened. I’m very proud of our student body, our coaches and,of course, the parents who came out to show their support for our teams here and at the away games.”

The award recipient for each sport is determined by a vote of the participating MVC high school members.  Each high school’s athletic director gets one vote at the season’s conclusion. The blue and white banners recognize outstanding sportsmanship demonstrated by players, coaches and their fans. 

“One of the comments I heard repeatedly from the other athletic directors was that no matter what the score, there was no quitting by our players. They continued to play hard, play fair and show respect for the referees,” Cossette said.  

The Wolverines received the good sportsmanship award for boys’ and girls’ cross-country, the sport Cossette coaches. Last fall, the Wolverines combined their cross-country program with Boothbay Region High School.

The Wolverine girls’ basketball team coached by Tom Philbrick and Bob “Radar” Applebee were next to raise the sportsmanship banner following a winless season in February.

And now the softball team coached by Gordon Campbell and Jason Bailey and the baseball team coached by Gregg Wood have each been named the good sportsmanship winners. The softball team won just one MVC game this past season. The baseball team finished 0-16 for the second straight year.

“Being recognized by our peers for good sportsmanship speaks well of our school system and our community,” continued Cossette.

Cossette also credited Wiscasset Community Center for its support.  “Director Lisa Thompson, Bob MacDonald and Duane Goud have worked collaboratively with the school system throughout the year,” he said.

Due to a smaller enrollment, the Wolverines are a Class D high school, although the teams continue to compete against mostly Class C and even a few Class B high schools.

Winning will continue to be a challenge at WMHS nest year. Cossette said he’s focused on getting more high school and junior high students involved in sports, competing against other high schools and having fun doing so. “That’s something we can’t lose sight of, the fact that sports are about enjoying yourself and being a part of a team.”

Reached for comment,  Superintendent of Schools Terry Wood wrote in an email to the Wiscasset Newspaper, “Words cannot express how proud I am of these accomplishments! Winning a competition is not always about the final score. During sporting events throughout the school year, our students have demonstrated many qualities to be considered ‘winners’. It is very humbling for our school to receive these acknowledgments. Our athletes are winners in every aspect!”

Other Wolverine news

Haiden Dunning was named the baseball team’s Most Valuable Player. Dunning, a graduating senior, struck out a dozen Oak Hill batters in six innings during a May 18 home game. He also had a pair of base hits that game.

Billy Pinkham received the coach’s Sportsmanship award and Kyle Ricker was named the team’s Most Improved Player.

Gordon Campbell announced he was retiring as WMHS softball coach. Campbell coached the Wolverines the past four seasons. Prior to that he coached softball for Wiscasset’s junior high team.

“Gordon really did an excellent job working with the girls. He was well-liked and will be missed,” said Cossette in thanking Campbell. The coaching job will be advertised shortly.

WMHS’s fall MVC sports schedule is nearing completion and should be finalized soon.

Midcoast Conservancy’s second annual Love the Lake Regatta will be held on Saturday, July 20, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at Rolling Acres in Jefferson. Home to the Joseph A. Fiore Art Center, Rolling Acres has a spectacular stretch of shoreline on Damariscotta Lake.

Designed to be a fun, family-friendly day on one of Midcoast Maine’s most beautiful lakes, the regatta will provide participants with the opportunity to get onto the water using one of Midcoast Conservancy’s kayaks, canoes or stand-up paddleboards; attendees are welcome to bring their own paddle craft if they prefer. As part of its Outdoor Adventure & Learning Program, Midcoast Conservancy has dozens of canoes, kayaks and paddleboards that are trailered to sites across the Midcoast area, bringing opportunities for outdoor recreation to anyone interested in exploring the waters and trails in their own community.

A course will be set up for low-key races and self-guided paddles. A series of “silly” races will encourage kids of all ages to test their paddle skills and funny bones as they attempt to navigate the course with creative challenges like untraditional gear, or blindfolds! Staff and volunteers will be on hand to ensure safety protocols and help participants to familiarize themselves with the watercraft. PFDs will be available to all; attendees are free to bring their own.

Paddlers are invited to picnic at the farm; Midcoast Conservancy will provide drinks and dessert, so attendees should pack a lunch (and sunscreen!) to enjoy on the shore of the lake. Registration is requested; there is no charge for the event. The regatta promises to be a fun-filled celebration of Damariscotta Lake and an opportunity to explore it from a loon’s eye view.

For more information and to register, go to https://www.midcoastconservancy.org/events/love-the-lake-regatta-on-damariscotta-lake/ or call (207) 389-5150.

The 34th annual Charles Begin Memorial Lobster Boat Races were held in Boothbay Harbor Saturday, June 15. Here are some scenes. Results will be published later.

Join artist Jennifer Linskey on Thursday, June 27th for a day of painting and drawing at historic Castle Tucker. Unleash your inner artist! The view is fabulous and the house is a fascinating Maine treasure. Beginners are welcome. The day begins at 10 a.m. and ends at 4 p.m. Enjoy the day and gather for an afternoon critique with the instructor. Weather permitting. Bring your own materials, lunch and a hat. Castle Tucker is located at 2 Lee Street in Wiscasset.

Jennifer Linskey brings over 30 years of drawing and painting experience working from observation. She earned a BA in art from Smith College and an MFA in drawing, painting, and printmaking from Southern Illinois University. Jennifer studied with George Nick, Erin Palmer, and Martha Armstrong. Her work has been shown at the Bowery Gallery in New York City, and been juried into shows by Lois Dodd, John Walker and William Bailey. Jennifer is a warm and enthusiastic teacher, excited to share her knowledge of painting with you.

Castle Tucker is one of Maine’s most fascinating landmarks. Step back in time as you walk through a mansion filled with the original furnishings and decoration of the family who lived here for over 140 years. This unusual style house was built in 1807 by one of Wiscasset’s most prominent citizens, Congressman and Judge Silas Lee. In 1858, Captain Richard Tucker Jr., scion of a prominent Wiscasset shipping family, bought the house for his new and growing family. The Tuckers updated and redecorated to reflect the styles of their time. Very little was changed in the house after 1900, including the kitchen with four generations of kitchen technology still in place where it was used. It remains one of the most complete and original Victorian homes in the United States.

Admission is $20 Historic New England members, $25 nonmembers. Advance registration is required. Space is limited. Buy tickets online at https://my.historicnewengland.org/2756/4718 or call 882-7169.

Castle Tucker is open Wednesday – Sunday until Oct. 15 with guided tours on the hour and half hour from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Historic New England is the oldest, largest, and most comprehensive regional heritage organization in the nation, telling the stories of over 400 years of life in New England through its historic houses, collections, publications and programs. Learn more at www.HistoricNewEngland.org.

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At the Gardens, we know through experience what science has confirmed—spending time in nature reduces stress, enhances creativity and improves general health and well-being. Yoga has also been proven to reduce stress, promote relaxation, relieve anxiety and improve one’s quality of life. With that in mind, CMBG introduces weekly yoga at the Gardens this summer.

One of the major tenets of yoga centers on being in the moment, at one with nature. In fact, many of the postures of the yoga practice are named for plants and animals—it only makes sense that, when practiced outdoors, yoga can offer participants another way to connect to nature. CMBG’s weekly classes are open to anyone at any level of experience. If you’re already a yoga aficionado, outdoor classes can offer a different dimension to your regular practice. New to yoga? Embrace the experience and the outdoors while being guided by an experienced instructor.

Teaching this summer at CMBG is Sarah Plummer, a yoga instructor with 27 years of experience and founder of Maine Outdoor Yoga. Each week, she’ll lead participants through a flow yoga class, complete with gentle stretching and guided meditation, in the peaceful Woodland Lawn. Weekly yoga begins July 2 and runs through Sept. 17. Sign up for a full six-week series, or drop in for an individual class; advance registration is available for the six-week series only. Drop-in, single-day registration is always welcome for $20 per class. For more information, visit www.mainegardens.org

The 15th annual Healthy Kids Shortcake Shuffle 5K and 3K Fitness Walk will take place at Great Salt Bay Community School in Damariscotta July 6. The age categories for the 5K have been expanded to include children ages 1-5, 6-10, 11-14 and 15-19 as so many young people are running the event. All participants will receive a custom sweatband and as always, homemade strawberry shortcake will be served and prizes awarded! The race is professionally timed.

All proceeds go to the Healthy Kids child abuse prevention programs. To pre-register, visit www.healthykidsmaine.org. For more information, call 563-1818.

Wiscasset kicked off its summer soccer season by hosting Gardiner Tuesday night, June 18, the first of seven games in the Central Maine Soccer League that includes teams from Cony, Hall-Dale, Erskine, Waterville and Messalonskee.

The teams play four 20-minute periods or two 40-minute halves and are officiated by certified soccer officials. Scorebooks aren’t kept because this is more of an instructional league; coaches play the games to work on skills and soccer fundamentals.

Coaching the Wiscasset team is Wiscasset Middle High School Coach Chris Cossette. He’s being assisted by Devon Grover. Sixteen players turned out June 18, including one from Chop Point School in Woolwich. Gardiner’s coach split playing time among 24 players.

The teams were four minutes into the game when the visitors scored. Braden Dorogi booted in a cross pass that came from the right side. The ball was just out of reach of the diving L.J. Travers, Wiscasset’s goalkeeper.

Wiscasset’s best scoring opportunity came in the opening minute of the final period. Following the kickoff, Austin Trask broke free with the ball on the left wing. He was taken down by a defender inside the penalty area, drawing a whistle from the referee. Trask missed the penalty kick that followed, as the ball carried over the cross bar. Another scoring opportunity came for Wiscasset midway into the second period but the play was blown dead due to an off-sides call.

In the third period, Gardiner scored again off a corner kick when a player headed the ball into the net. A direct one by Wiscasset’s Aiden Foley in the third period carried wide left. The visitors scored in all four periods.

In September, Travers will be a sophomore and likely WMHS’s starting goalkeeper. He served as the Wolverines' backup keeper during the 2018 season. His best save against Gardiner came in the closing seconds of the first period when he charged from the net and blocked a shot. In the third period, he made six saves on seven shots.

Other Wiscasset players to watch include Garrett Cossette, who worked well with Foley at midfield.

Wolverine veterans filling in Coach Cossette’s roster include defender Josh Jones and midfielders Chance Blagdon, John Hodson, Gavin Loupe and Mason Davenport.

New to the team is senior Billy Pinkham. He was a starter on the Wolverines' basketball and baseball teams during the past school year. Pinkham made some good defensive plays inside the 18-yard line, deflecting one Gardiner shot wide of the net.

Cossette and Grover both said they wished more incoming freshmen has signed on to play soccer this summer. The program was open to players from Boothbay Region High School. None were present for the game.

Wiscasset will be at Erskine Academy in South China on Tuesday, July 9. The team then hosts back-to-back home games with Waterville on July 16, and Messalonskee July 23. The home games are played on WMHS’s lower field and start at 6 p.m.

The game drew a large turnout of fans. Among them was Bob Sommers, who not too many years ago led the former Wiscasset High School boys’ soccer team to its only state C championship.

Volunteers and staff from Coastal Rivers Conservation Trust remove the dock each fall and reinstall it in the spring to provide easy access to the preserve by boat. Coastal Rivers co-manages Dodge Point Preserve, which is owned by the Maine Bureau of Parks and Lands (BPL).

Visitors to the dock may notice the pier is looking sturdier than it did last year. BPL representatives and Coastal Rivers volunteers and staff worked together to replace the rotting pier supports last October.

Coastal Rivers Conservation Trust, formerly Damariscotta River Association and Pemaquid Watershed Association, is a non-profit, membership supported, and nationally accredited land trust and conservation organization dedicated to preserving and promoting the natural, cultural, and historical heritage of the greater Pemaquid peninsula and Damariscotta River region.

For more information about Coastal Rivers, call (207) 563-1393, email info@coastalrivers.org, or visit www.coastalrivers.org

The Boothbay Region YMCA will hold the 39th annual Rocky Coast Road Race beginning at 7:30 a.m. on Saturday, June 29 at the YMCA on Townsend Avenue. This event will take place in partnership with Windjammer Days.

All proceeds from the race support LIVESTRONG at the YMCA, a 12-week free program for cancer survivors and their families. Focused on small-group training and relationship building, LIVESTRONG works to provide specialized training for those who are living with, through, or beyond cancer to strengthen their spirit, mind and body. To learn more about LIVESTRONG or to begin the registration process for the fall session, call the Y at 633-2855.

Race day registration for the Rocky Coast Road Race is $40 per participant on June 29 at 6:30 a.m. There are three event options this year: 10K run, 5K run and a 5K walk. The race is made possible through our event sponsors: Knickerbocker Group, First National Bank, J. Edward Knight Insurance and Dead River Company.

Volunteers are also needed for this event. Community members of all ages and abilities are welcome to volunteer for a variety of positions that are needed to make the event run smoothly.

For more information on registering, volunteering, or sponsoring the event, contact Lisa McIntosh at the YMCA: 207-633-2855 or lmcintosh@brymca.org

To register online, visit https://bit.ly/2Rowkgl

Run and celebrate! It’s time for the 10th anniversary of the Lobster Roll 5K race and kids’ fun run! Join us Saturday, July 27 at 8 a.m. in front of Boothbay Region High School. Last year, over 200 runners supported the community to run on one of the most scenic race courses in Maine. Prizes are awarded for overall winners, age group winners and the team challenge.

The 5K race starts at 8 a.m. On-site registration is open at 6:30 a.m. The kids’ fun run will be after (around 9 a.m.) on the football field.

Register now at lobsterroll5k.weebly.com

For sponsorship information, please contact Liz Giles-Brown at lizzybrown@gmail.com. If you wish to make a donation and are unable to join us, please send to: Community On Track, c/o Superintendent of Schools, 51 Emery Lane, Boothbay Harbor, ME 04538. All donations are tax deductible.

Early registration is underway for the second annual Nequasset Paddle to be held on Woolwich Day, Saturday, Aug. 3. Pre-registration is $10 and can be made at the town office during business hours. Registration after July 31, or on the day of the race is $15.

The race sponsored by the Woolwich Special Events Committee is for kayakers and canoeists.

Kyle Beeton, race coordinator, said they’ve made a few changes this year. One is the starting time, which has been moved back an hour to 10 a.m. Registration on the day of the race will be from 9 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. at the boat launch off Old Stage Road where the race begins.

The course is about two miles long and runs the length of the lake north to south. It ends at the boat launch at Nequasset Park off George Wright Road.

Beeton said they’ve added more classes. Classes include:

• C-1 – Canoe single adult (one man or woman, ages 16-years-old or older). 
• C-2 – Canoe double adult (two men or women, or mixed couple, ages 16 and older). 
• SJ – Senior/Junior (one adult (16-plus); and one junior (ages 12-15) in either a canoe or kayak.
• K – Kayak (one man or woman (16-plus).
• KJ – Kayak junior (ages 12-15).
• PB – Paddle board (one man or woman 16-plus).
• PBJ – Paddle board junior (12-15).

The prizes are different, too. “There will be a first place prize of $20, second place of $10, and third place of $5,” stated Beeton in an email to the Wiscasset Newspaper.

Other race rules remain the same. Participants must have consent from their parent/guardian if they are under 18. Coast Guard-approved, over the shoulder life jackets must be worn by all participants, along with a numbered vest over the life jacket. Passing canoes have the right of way. Alcoholic beverages and pets are prohibited from all watercraft.

Volunteer Race Spotters will be on the lake during the race.

All participants must check in with race organizers at the finish.

No shuttle services will be provided at the park, meaning participants are responsible for arranging their own transportation back to the launch site. Prizes will be awarded at Nequasset Park following the race.  

Winners of last year’s Nequasset Paddle were Even Goodkowsky and Eric Smith in the tandem class in 41:36; Mary McCauley in the adult single division who finished in 27:04; and Liam Scanlon in the junior division in 28:16.

And they yanked the arms right off the other teams, OK, not really, but Clear Stream Construction did yank the rope out of all of their opponents’ hands. That’s right, Clear Stream Construction won the sixth annual tug of war and set a Windjammer Days Festival record June 24, becoming the first team ever to win twice – and in consecutive years!

The Friends of Windjammer Days renamed the event the Stephan Branch Memorial Tug of War Across the Harbor. Stephan and Margaret Branch had hosted teams on their property on the east side from the beginning. Stephan, who died last year, was a supporter and fan of the event. This year, Margaret and their daughter Stephanie Branch began their years of hosting the tug. Stephanie presented the trophy, or in this case, returned the First Place trophy to company owner Chris Bertin and his fierce team.

The other four teams this year were Marden Construction, Crusher Claws (employees from various restaurants), Working Gals, and Waves Restaurant. Each team had 11 members and, except for Working Gals, each had nine men and two women. 

Working Gals Captain Catherine said the team was made of “strong, independent local working girls.” The team gave a good fight, but in the end, Clear Stream had them beat in the strength department. After the pull, Catherine said “I’m glad we did it .. but those guys are intense!”

On the east side of the harbor, Darrell Gudroe was king of the slight incline – that is, he helped with logistics and freed the occasional rope snag. Whether the incline on the east side gave advantage to west side teams, no one can be certain because despite the supposed benefit of the lower ground, Clear Stream Construction managed to win twice from the east side. This included the final tug of the afternoon which sent half the team sprawling backwards toward Atlantic Avenue.

Emcee Doug Gimbel kept the crowd and the teams entertained with his brand of shtick and commentary no one else could pull off. He suggested people start getting their teams together for 2020, the year of Maine’s Bicentennial. “Get those teams set up and bulk up over the winter!” advised Gimbel.

The emcee thanked all the team members and business owners for taking time out of their work day to compete in the popular Windjammer Days event. 

After the games, everyone went back to work. And Clear Stream left with the first place trophy for another year. How sweet it is.

The 2019 Strawberry Shortcake Shuffle 5k/Fitness Walk is Saturday, July 6 at Great Salt Bay School in Damariscotta. The event, in its 15th year, features expanded 5K age groups for all the young runners. The 3K fitness walk is for all ages.

The race, sponsored by Renys and Kieve/Wavus, begins at 8:30 a.m. Registration begins at 7:30. All participants will receive custom sweatbands and our famous strawberry shortcake. The event is professionally timed and prizes will be given.

To register online, visit www.healthykidsmaine.org. For more information call 563-1818.

Have you ever seen a 95-year-old woman, all of 5 feet tall, play baseball? If you were driving by the Lincoln Home in Newcastle recently, you would have seen her and her 80-to-90-year-old teammates decked out in their Golden Oldie T-shirts and ball caps, cheering, batting, walking bases, and having a grand time.

Kevin Benner from Lincoln Home’s maintenance department, clears the parking lot of cars, chalks the bases onto the hot top and opens the 14th annual baseball game with “Play Ball!” The chatter rises, and the competitive, sassy talk from player to player begins. When the 103-year-old walks up to bat, loud cheers follow him. When he hits the ball, his grin is visible across the third base line.

This event, year after year, has proven that one is never too old to try something new, to play, to have fun, and to be rowdy and cheer on fellow teammates. Score is kept, but no one seems to care. It is the playing that matters, the camaraderie, being outside, and the singing of “Take Me Out to the Ball Game” during the 7th inning stretch.

When the game is over, everyone comes in tired, more from laughing than playing! The group gathers together for a picnic lunch of hot dogs, sauerkraut, and ice cream sandwiches for dessert.

Whether we are nine or 90, we all need to play, be with friends, and have fun. At the Lincoln Home, we celebrate family, friendships, and promote joyful and abundant living each and every day.

Wiscasset Yacht Club is accepting applications for membership. All boating enthusiasts are invited to an Open House from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sunday, June 30. Meet club members, take a tour of the clubhouse and grounds, share in some refreshments, and enjoy the many scheduled activities.

Sailing instructor Tom Stoner and some of his students will be at the boat shed eager to show off the sailboat fleet and to introduce prospective members to the new Adult Sailing Program. And Safety & Education Chairman John McMullen, a USCG certified examiner, will be conducting vessel safety checks throughout the day at the dock. The kids will love the Maine State Aquarium’s tide pool display where they can touch sea urchins, starfish, sand dollars, and more. And two essential safety demonstrations are not to be missed. The first, on the correct deployment of a life raft, will take place at 11:00 a.m., followed at 1:00 p.m by a hands-on demonstration of the proper way to use emergency flares. Representatives from Maine Island Trails and the Maine State Department of Marine Resources will also be on hand to provide information and answer questions about their organizations.

Whether or not you own a boat or just love to be around them, Wiscasset Yacht Club has much to offer. In addition to full use of the clubhouse and its amenities, members can take advantage of a jam-packed calendar of events. From sailing and safe boating programs to socials, and the ever popular movie nights, grille nights, and Sunday coffees, there is something for everyone.

Wiscasset Yacht Club is located at 2 Water Street on the Wiscasset waterfront. Come by car or come by boat for a safety check. Everyone is welcome!

The 30th anniversary Sheepscot River Race is Saturday, July 6 at 3:30 p.m.

This race began as a Fourth of July activity run by the Wiscasset Recreation Department, as a few laps around mooring balls in Wiscasset Harbor. Today, the race is sanctioned by the Maine Canoe and Kayak Racing Organization and is considered one of the most scenic paddling races in the state. Competitors of all abilities in canoes, kayaks or paddleboards are welcome.

“The course is approximately 6.2 miles and will be paddled by some of the best paddlers in about 45 minutes,” said Race Director Scott Shea. “The tidal flow helps push everyone in the right direction, so a great course for all levels. We look forward to a great turnout on July 6.” The race starts in Newcastle and finishes on the Wiscasset waterfront.

For more information, contact Shea at (207) 751-3450 or www.seaspraykayaking.com

The Windjammer Days lighted boat parade, scheduled for Saturday, June 29 was postponed due  to weather concerns.

The parade, the final event of the festival, has been rescheduled for Saturday, July 6.  And there’s still time to register! Go to www.boothbayharborwindjammerdays.org/lighted-boat-parade

See you at the waterfront in Boothbay Harbor - 9 p.m.!

Wiscasset Yacht Club hosted its annual open house Sunday, signaling the much anticipated return of the summer pleasure boating season.

Among the hosts were WYC Commodore Don Davis and his wife Cynthia of Middle Street. The couple just returned to Wiscasset in their 36-foot Grand Banks Trawler, In No Hurry. They bought it over the winter.

Davis said it took 14 days to pilot the boat up the East Coast from Kents Narrows, Maryland on Chesapeake Bay. They experienced four lay days due to high winds.

Davis, who is starting his fifth year as commodore, said a great deal of brainstorming and planning had gone into this year’s open house. “It’s definitely the most elaborate one we’ve even undertaken and done entirely by our membership,” he said.

Richard “Dickey” Brigance, of Woolwich looks forward to the open house every year. Brigance and his late wife Jane are both former WYC commodores. “I can’t remember how many years Jane served as commodore. She loved the Wiscasset Yacht Club and was instrumental in helping move our building off its pilings, which were in pretty bad shape, and moving it back to where it now is,” said Brigance.

Safety and Seamanship Director John McMullen said the club was fortunate to get representatives of Kennebec Sea Scouts, Maine Island Trail Association, the Department of Marine Resources and members of the Wawenock Sail and Power Squadron to take part in this year’s open house.

“The Maine State Aquarium ... in West Boothbay Harbor was very kind in providing us with the tide pool display and touch tank,” he continued. The tank included live starfish, sand dollars, sea urchins and a partially blue lobster – which you don’t see every day!

Throughout the morning and early afternoon, McMullen, George Apgar, Dennis Bolduc, Ed Ferranti and Rob Martinez conducted free boating safety inspections. All five are members of the Wawenock Power Squadron and are U.S. Coast Guard certified boat inspectors.

On the grounds behind the yacht club, sailing instructor Tom Stoner discussed WYC’s adult sailing programs. Other activities included demonstrations on deploying an inflatable life raft, and how to safely use signal flares.

WYC is celebrating its 67th year.  Three of the original 23 members are still active in the organization. The club built a new pier in 2016 and recently added water and electrical service on its floating docks. WYC welcomes sailors, power boaters, kayakers, fishermen, families and singles, and vessels large or small.

Find more information at www.wiscassetyc.com

The Midcoast Sports Hall of Fame is sponsoring a vintage baseball game on Sunday, July 7, at 1 p.m. at Philbrook Field, near the former A.D. Gray school on School Street in Waldoboro. The Sunrise team will be playing Dirigo.

Refreshments will be on sale. Bring your own chair. A hat will be passed for donations. If you have any questions, call Tom Mellor at 691-2770, email him at ttmellor@gmail.com or email team organizer Jacob Newcomb at jacob.newcomb@gmail.com

Coach Duane Goud is excited about having 24 girls playing summer soccer. Wiscasset hosted Richmond Monday evening on Wiscasset Middle High School’s lower field.

Wiscasset played two previous games this summer losing 1-0 at Winthrop in the season opener June 24 and then settling for a scoreless tie at Rockland against Ocean Side on June 26. Wiscasset’s next game is Monday, July 8 when it hosts Oak Hill.

There were 18 girls on the sideline for the Richmond game. No scorebook was kept but the ballgame was refereed by two certified officials who kept the time on the field. Due to the hot weather, 81 F at game time, the teams played four 20-minute quarters.

Wiscasset’s roster included Gwen Webber, Ellie Pratt, Brianna Orr, Paige Davenport, Kayla Cossette, Natalie Potter, Chrissy Easter, Kylie Peoples, Zoe Waltz and Kaitlyn Main, along with two sets of sisters, Riley and Kateleen Trask and Jade and Jasmine Rego; all are veterans of last fall’s WMHS Wolverine soccer team. Lily Souza, the Wolverine starting goalie, is the summer team’s goalkeeper, and Davenport is the team’s backup keeper.

WMHS student Cara Viele, a competitive swimmer and a member of the Wolverine track team this past spring, played striker Monday night; she had three shots on goal. Jodi Harrington, a student at Chop Point School in Woolwich, is also playing. Harrington trained with the Wolverine track team this past spring and won the state C high jump. She played on the frontline against Richmond and had three shots.

Richmond’s first goal of five came about 10 minutes into the game. Nicole Tribbet’s shot from inside the penalty area deflected off the charging Souza and rolled into the net. In the second quarter, Webber’s pass from midfield found Harrington open on the left side but her shot was intercepted by the Richmond keeper and cleared away. With 10 minutes left until halftime, Orr made a nice run down the right side before losing the ball. A shot by Potter was wide left.

Late in the second period, Richmond’s Bry Shea had her shot careen off the cross bar before Pratt cleared the ball from in front of the Wiscasset net.

The visitors scored three times in the third quarter. They went up  2-nil after netting a direct kick from just outside the 18. Richmond’s other goals came on a corner kick and penalty shot. They scored again in the final period. In the closing minutes of the third period, Vielie broke free on the right side and shot from inside the 18-yard line. Her aim was off, with the ball carrying over the crossbar. Harrington’s shot from the left side on a cross pass from Vielie careened off the near post before being scooped up by the Richmond goalkeeper.

Souza made some nice stops for Wiscasset as did the Richmond keeper. Both girls finished with six saves.

It being the Fourth of July holiday week, Wiscasset was minus several of its other veteran players, including Latisha Wright, Eliza Paradise, Emily Richardson, Alyssa Bassett and D’Nashia Dawkins.

Coach Goud said incoming WMHS freshmen include Antonia Parsons, Angelina Haggett and Carolyn Potter, Natalie’s younger sister. Potter made some nice defensive plays in Wiscasset’s backfield running down and clearing away two Richmond fast breaks.

Wiscasset will play Richmond at least twice more: July 10 at Richmond and Aug. 24 at the annual round robin tournament Richmond will host.

Looking ahead to September, Goud said the Wolverines are moving up from Class D to Class C soccer competition. The team will still compete in the Mountain Valley Conference. 

The 39th annual Rocky Coast 10k /5k on Saturday, June 29 in Boothbay Harbor was a huge success with over 137 runners.

Elijah Caret, 18, won the men’s 10k (38:54), Emily Lewis, 28, won the women’s 10k (44:35), Alexis McCoy, 35, won the women’s 5k (21:27) and Tanner Tanter, 43, won the men’s 5k (22:24). Information on the runners’ town of residence was unavailable.

Race director Lisa McIntosh said via email, “We couldn’t do this without the help from our sponsors- the First, Dead River, J. Edward Knight and Knickerbocker Group. All our proceeds support our LIVESTRONG program for cancer survivors that is offered twice a year. The next session will be in September, facilitated by our two certified LIVESTRONG instructors, Lori Murray and Debra Lewis.

“We also want to thank all the volunteers, YMCA staff, Boothbay Harbor Police Department, paramedics, and the town of Boothbay Harbor. Without community support this event could not take place and we are very thankful to be participating in Windjammer week.”

The 15th annual Westport Island Shore Run 10K Road Race will take place on Sunday, Aug. 18 on bridge-accessible Westport Island. Registration is now open for "Maine’s Best Little 10K Road Race." The 10K road race will start at 9 a.m; the 3.5-mile "Fun Walk" will start at 8:30 a.m.

This exciting 10K road race takes place on a USATF-certified beautiful course that winds through scenic pine and fir tree forests and over two bridges spanning inlets to Heal Cove and Montsweag Bay. The race benefits the Westport Volunteer Fire Department, whose members direct traffic and provide logistical support at the race. Over the past 14 years, the race has generated over $20,000 in proceeds for the firefighters. Race day registration and the race packet pick up are both at the Old Town Hall on Main Road (Route 144),  just south of the Squire Tarbox Inn.

Last year, the first place male winner of the 2018 10K race was David Grant of Westport Island; the first place female winner was Leslie Couper of Falmouth.

Our 2019 race sponsors include, thus far: Wayfair; Maine Yankee; Sheepscot River Marine Service; Bath Savings Bank; Ames True Value Supply; Newcastle Jeep, Chrysler, Dodge; Norm's Used Cars; Crossroads Coffee; the Westport Community Association and the Hampton Inn of Bath.

Jim McCorkle of 5K Sports Management will be computer timing the race again this year, for the 15th time. Water stations, distance markers, post-race refreshments, raffle prizes and award medals will be provided.

For more information and to register online, go to: www.westportisland.org

If a July 2 game in Wiscasset was any indication, Hall-Dale will again be a strong contender for a Mountain Valley Conference title for the high school soccer season this fall. Wiscasset played hard but was no match for its older, more experienced guests.

Just moments after the opening kickoff, Hall-Dale’s front three carried the ball up the middle of the field and scored. They controlled the ball most of the game, unleashing a torrent of shots at Wiscasset goalie LJ Traver. Although pressed hard, Travers played a good game charging from the net to block or deflect multiple shots and making about a dozen saves.

The only advantage Wiscasset had was in the number of players. Assistant Coach Devin Grover, filling in for Chris Cossette, had 15 players on the sideline. Hall-Dale brought 11, just enough to field a team.

Ten minutes into the first 20-minute quarter, Wiscasset found itself down 2-nil. Around the same time, Hall-Dale drew a whistle for charging deep at its end of the field. The penalty gave Wiscasset a free kick just outside the 18-yard line. John Hodson drilled the ball low to the goal mouth but it was caught by the Hall-Dale keeper and punted away.

Travers with Josh Jones playing sweeper back between Billy Pinkham and Matt Eckert kept it a 2-0 ballgame until the last few seconds of the quarter. Hall-Dale then scored on a blast soaring into the back of the net from 40 yards away just as time expired, a bad break for the hosts.

Hall-Dale’s offense picked up the tempo from that point on until halftime; its speedy striker Camden Adam scored three times and picked up an assist.

Before the break, Wiscasset’s Chance Blagdon just missed ending the shutout. After taking possession of the ball, he carried it inside the penalty box and fired. Hall-Dale’s goalie was caught flat-footed but recovered it in time to make the save. The play nonetheless picked up Wiscasset’s spirits until halftime when both teams broke for a much needed break from the heat, 82F in the sun.

Last year, Hall-Dale finished its season 13-1; Wiscasset Middle High School was 6-8. The two MVC rivals will meet just once during the regular season for a night game on Sept. 16 hosted by Wiscasset.

Wiscasset still has four summer soccer games left. Next Tuesday, July 9, the team will travel to the community of China to play Erskine, then host Waterville the following Tuesday, host Messalonskee on July 23 and finish the season with an away game at Gardiner July 30.

A new rule takes effect in the fall. The official clock must now be stopped in a game’s final five minutes when substitutions are made by the team in the lead.

The rule was added to prevent coaches from using subs to run time off the clock.

A few minor changes were also made to the rule on drop balls, which referees use to resume play after the game is stopped.

Midcoast Conservancy is offering two free camps this summer. Little Dyer Adventure Club returns for another year at Hidden Valley Nature Center in Jefferson from July 23 to 25, and the Paddleboard Adventure Camp will be held on Stevens Pond in Liberty from July 16-18.

Adventure Club members ages 8-11 will learn to work and play alongside each other as they develop their sense of adventure. Participants will experience the basics of canoeing, mountain biking, hiking and leave-no-trace camping through structured and thoughtful approaches. The program will be centered around Little Dyer Pond, a 110-acre Great Pond with no public access. Little Dyer is a serene gem and HVNC offers kids an authentic backcountry experience with the convenience of a day program.

Over the course of the three days participants will have the opportunity to learn by challenging themselves in a supportive setting. The instructors will also provide guidance for future adventures by teaching what to pack and how to prepare before heading out on the trail. The hope is that this experience opens the door for a future of exploration and adventure for participants and their families at HVNC and beyond. Participants must be able to ride a two wheeled bike. All equipment is provided by Midcoast Conservancy. To register for this free program, go to https://www.midcoastconservancy.org/events/little-dyer-adventure-club-3/.

Adventure Paddleboard campers will learn both Stand Up Paddleboard skills and safety on beautiful Stevens Pond in Liberty. The camp will include an introduction to SUP skills and safety, paddling games and rescue practice and paddle exploration. Stand up paddleboards, paddles, and PFDs will all be provided. Participants will need to come prepared each day dressed to be outside, with a swimsuit and towel, lunch and a full water bottle.

This camp is open to all Maine youth ages 9-14. Previous experience in these activities is not required. Participants should be comfortable with water and prepared to be physically active during camp. To register for this free program, go to https://www.midcoastconservancy.org/events/paddle-board-adventure-camp-stevens-pond/.

Wiscasset outshot visiting Oak Hill but came up short, losing 3-1, in girls summer soccer action Monday.

The Mountain Valley Conference rivals were scoreless after the first 20-minute quarter. Wiscasset had the game’s first scoring opportunity that came just five minutes after the opening kickoff. Jodie Harrington on the front line played the ball back to Gwen Webber in the middle of the field. Webber found Cara Viele open but her shot sailed over the cross bar.

A few minutes later, Wiscasset took the game’s first corner but Webber’s kick carried behind the net.

Oak Hill’s Riley Crosby scored the game’s first goal eight minutes into the second quarter, booting in a cross pass to the goal mouth that came from the right side. The visitors went up 2-nil when Lily Nadeau scored on a similar cross pass from the right side of the field. A few minutes before halftime, Harrington found Latisha Wright open in front of Oak Hill’s net but the goalie dropped to the turf and got to the ball first. Wiscasset held a 6-4 shot edge through the first half. Wiscasset dominated play in the first six minutes of the third quarter.

Viele made a nice run from midfield. After carrying the ball to the right corner her shot missed wide of the near post. Following Ellie Pratt’s booming kick from midfield Webber then missed from the opposite side from just inside the 18-yard line. With about five minutes left in the quarter, Webber found Viele open in front of the net and she scored, making it a 2-1 ballgame.

Viele and Webber combined for three more shots in the first three minutes of the fourth quarter. Harrington from Zoe Waltz later missed from inside the 18-yard line. Wiscasset continued to dominate play until the game’s closing minutes when an Oak Hill defender chipped the ball ahead to Gabby Chessie. She carried the ball down the middle, fired from inside the 18 and scored. It was one of only two Oak Hill shots in the final quarter.

Wiscasset got two more shots off before the final whistle sounded. One by Harrington was wide of the far post. Oak Hill’s goalie then leaped and caught a blast off the foot of Viele in the final minute. An official scorebook wasn’t kept but Wiscasset held about a 12-7 shot edge over its guests.

Pratt played another solid game at sweeper back in front of goalie Lily Souza who picked up four saves. Wiscasset standouts at midfield were Kayla Cossette, Jade Rego and Waltz. Kylie Peoples playing on upfront got off a nice shot on goal in the first half for the hosts.

Wiscasset and Oak Hill will meet just once when the high school soccer season resumes in the fall. That game will be at Wales on Oct. 8.

In 2018, the Raiders finished 13-1 and won the MVC Championship by defeating Monmouth Academy who also finished at 13-1.

Summer soccer continues Wednesday, July 10 away at Richmond. On July 15, Wiscasset be in Waterville. The team’s next home game is July 17 hosting Medomak.

Midcoast Conservancy will host a full moon paddle at its Hidden Valley Nature Center (HVNC) in Jefferson on Saturday, July 14, from 8-10 p.m. Participants can enjoy the silvery glow of the “buck” moon (because new antlers emerge from bucks' foreheads around this time of the year) from canoes provided by the nature center as they glide along Little Dyer Pond after a beautiful mile-and-a half hike into the woods.

Little Dyer Pond is a true Great Pond with no public boat launch and almost no shoreline development. Midcoast Conservancy will provide the canoes, paddles, and life jackets. All ages are welcome! Participants should be comfortable in a canoe on flat water, able to steer a canoe, and able to walk three miles on moderate trails.

Space is limited by the number of boats available, and pre-registration is required. More information and registration is available online at https://www.midcoastconservancy.org/events/full-moon-paddle-on-little-dyer-pond-7/

Meet at the gate at 8; bring flashlights or headlamps for the hike back to the parking lot.

Note that HVNC’s canoes are available to rent anytime between dawn and dusk. Just leave a $10 per boat donation at the Gatehouse and hit the water to explore Little Dyer Pond.

Midcoast Conservancy will host the ninth annual Race Through the Woods at Hidden Valley Nature Center in Jefferson on Sunday, Sept. 29. Registration is open; this event sells out every year, so racers are encouraged to sign up early. For runners who are inspired by the tranquility of running on rustic trails deep in the Maine woods and enjoy the challenge of highly varied terrain, where slippery roots or loose rocks demand concentration and focus, this is the race to run. Explore the exciting mix of single and double-track trails over rolling terrain in this challenging racecourse.

Racers will have two course options to choose from: a 13-mile half-marathon and a 5.5-mile race. Both courses present their own challenges, but they both navigate through deep forests and beautiful trails.

This race is open to beginners, novices, and experienced trail runners alike. The atmosphere is not competitive, and there is a great spirit of camaraderie. After the race everyone is encouraged to stick around and enjoy a bon fire, hot cider or a beer from Sheepscot Brewing and a lunch of corn chowder, sides and dessert. Prizes will be awarded for different age classes at the end of the day.

Kids 10 years and under can participate in a fun obstacle race starting at about 10:30 a.m. (after the other races have taken off). The race will be only somewhat competitive; the goal is really just to have fun. Register online using the link below- registration for kids’ race is free.  The course will feature small hurdles, jumps, and mazes. After the official race, kids are welcome to enjoy the course at their own pace.

Race fees are $35 for the half marathon, and $25 for the 5K. Prices go up after Sept. 1. Racers can purchase a Race Through the Woods T-shirt when registering. Additional prizes will be given to first place finishers (men and women) in age categories. Prizes will include local food and goods donated by businesses and volunteers. The race is sponsored by First National Bank.

To register, go to https://www.midcoastconservancy.org/events/race-through-the-woods-2/

For more information, call (207) 389-5150 or email info@midcoastconservancy.org

The Kennebec Estuary Land Trust (KELT) invites the public to get creative and craft homemade journals. Join Maine Master Naturalist volunteer and book artist, Jill Osgood, on Saturday, July 13 at 10 a.m. at the LOCAL Garden in Bath to make your own blank journal for journaling or sketching nature and everyday life. This workshop includes hand stitching a few simple pamphlet structures that are perfect for putting in your backpack and taking in to the field. Osgood will also include instruction on leaf printing, specifically with ferns, to add an artistic touch to journal covers. Keep your new journal on hand for whenever the landscape is too beautiful not to record.

We ask for a $5 suggested donation to cover the cost of supplies. All materials are provided and no prior experience is necessary. This event is best suited for naturalists 10 years old and older. Space is limited to 15 participants, so registration is required by calling (207) 442-8400 or online at www.kennebecestuary.org/upcoming-events/bookmaking2019.

Don’t miss our other upcoming events at the LOCAL Garden. On July 27 at 10 a.m., learn techniques to kick start a raised bed garden at home, includes a building demonstration. On Aug. 24 at 11 a.m., learn a simple recipe to quick pickle a variety of veggies --- a fun and tasty way to eat cucumbers, green beans, and zucchini. On Sept. 7 at 10 a.m., learn to craft a soothing lavender calendula coconut skin salve using flowers grown at the LOCAL Garden – perfect for dry skin and chapped lips. For more information on all of these fun workshops, visit www.kennebecestuary.org/upcoming-events.

Richmond scored the first of five unanswered goals 10 minutes into the game defeating visiting Wiscasset 5-0 Wednesday night, July 10 at Patrick R. Coughlin Field. Richmond won by the same score two weeks earlier when the longtime rivals met in Wiscasset.

Because the temperature at game time was a comfortable 72F, both teams agreed to play 40-minute halves, the same as they do during the regular high school soccer season. Due to the heat, recent games have been broken into 20-minute quarters.

A big crowd of soccer fans lined the sidelines, as always when these two teams meet.  The hosts took the first shot on goal just 90 seconds into the game. The ball whistled in from the right side towards the far post. Wiscasset keeper Lily Souza very alertly moved to her left and made a nice save, punting the ball downfield.

Wiscasset next drove the ball deep into Richmond’s end of the field. Zoe Walsh passed off to Latisha Wright. She carried the ball down the center of the field but her shot was broken up by a Richmond defender. For the next six or seven minutes, Wiscasset kept Richmond on its heels controlling the ball at midfield. Jodi Harrington crossed a pass inside the 18-yard line to Cara Viele but her shot bounded wide of the far post. Wright played the ball back to Zoe Waltz but her shot was also wide, rolling out of bounds.

When Richmond next regained possession the hosts drove deep with Abby Johnson scoring from just outside the 18-yard line. About two minutes later the hosts struck again when Brianna Vintinner rebounded a missed shot and found the net.

Wiscasset’s next scoring opportunity came late in the first half. Gwen Webber at center halfback passed the ball ahead to Viele but her shot was batted down and caught by Richmond’s goalie.

With 10 minutes left until halftime, Paige Lebel scored, putting Richmond up 3-nil. An official scorebook wasn’t kept but the teams were about even with six shots each through the first 40 minutes of play. Richmond scored again five minutes into the second half and added a final goal late in the game. Wiscasset came close to averting the shutout several times, but just couldn’t seem to put the ball in the net.

Brianna Orr, from Webber, made a nice run down the sideline, but her shot carried wide right. Another shot on goal by Paige Davenport was well-struck but sailed over the crossbar. Two others shots came late in the game. One off the foot of Webber was blocked by the goalie and momentarily loose in front of the goal before being cleared away. Viele followed with a shot low at the goal mouth but the ball was scooped up and saved by the keeper.

When the referee blew the game’s final whistle, the players shook hands and exited the field to a round of applause from the fans.

Wiscasset was short a few of its players and still hasn’t played Richmond at full strength. The teams don’t play each other during the Mountain Valley Conference regular soccer season but will meet in a preseason game at Wiscasset Sept. 3. On Aug. 29, Wiscasset will host Temple Christian for its first high school pre-season game.

There are two more home summer soccer games. Wiscasset hosts Medomak July 17 and MVC rival Lisbon on July 24.

For adults wishing to learn the art and science of sailing, the Wiscasset Yacht Club adult sailing course is for you. The exact contents are customized to suit the knowledge and comfort level of the participants but will cover everything from why the sails work to the specifics of actually making them work. Terminology, boat handling, safety, sail trim, fundamental weather, knots, and rudimentary navigation will be covered. You might be ready to solo in light air at the end of these classes.

Basic and Intermediate classes will be held on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 3-5 p.m., or Saturdays at 10 a.m.-3 p.m., beginning Tuesday, Aug. 6 for three weeks ending Saturday, Aug. 24. The cost is $150 per class for non-members and $75 for members to support the WYC sailing program. Preference for participation will be given to WYC members as openings are limited.

Prerequisites include the ability to swim, and completion of the Orientation, Rigging and Ground school. Check the WYC website (wiscassetyc.com) for the dates of OR & G classes being held in July. These will be incorporated into the three-week sessions for those who have not completed them.

For further information or to register, contact Tom Stoner at 205-2409.

Inside his Wiscasset Municipal Airport hangar Sunday, pilot Nick Knobil recalled his childhood self following great aunt Nancy Love around, "pumping" her for information on her pioneering piloting of military aircraft in the World War II era. She wasn't one to go on about it.

He said she led a volunteer service of women pilots who ferried planes to the next place they were needed. Love was the first woman approved to pilot the B-17 bomber and 11 other aircraft; she made the National Aviation Hall of Fame, but didn't get veteran status and was not happy when she wasn’t allowed to fly into a combat zone, he added.

“Talk about a feminist before feminism.”

Knobil also had a Naval aviator-great uncle, Lincoln “Bill” Denton. A wall of the hangar has a front page New York Times story on the 1935 plane crash that killed Denton while he served the country. He’s buried in Arlington National Cemetery, Knobil said.

The family history helped interest Knobil in aviation. But he flies for the same reason he rides motorcycles: It’s fun. Both passions make him feel free. If he had to give one up, it would be motorcycles. “But I’d be sad.”

Knobil, 58, got his pilot’s license 23 years ago, but feels like he’s just getting done being a student pilot, because he’s always learning.

Any close calls? Yes, he’s done stupid things; but experience builds good judgment, Knobil said. 

Knobil flies his RV-8, “The yellow peril,” once a nickname for trainer planes; the yellow helped people find them, he explained. Unlike Great Aunt Nancy and Great Uncle Bill, he has never served in the military. Nor has he been a commercial pilot. It has all been pleasure flying. Sunday, he gave a ride to an Australian visiting the airport. And he still takes up his mother, former physiology professor at University of Texas Medical School at Houston, Texas, Julie Knobil, 85.

In 2012, he got to go about 500 mph piloting an F-16 Viper at the Air Force Thunderbirds' Brunswick visit. When a Thunderbird was at the controls, the plane reached the speed of sound.

“Exhilaration. The speed, the climb, and you’re with the best pilots in the world,” he said. He also considered it special that, at 16, before she was piloting the World War II planes, Great Aunt Nancy soloed in a World World I era Thomas Morse biplane, and nearly a century later, he got to pilot a supersonic jet.

Knobil likes any chance to interest young people in flying. The Australian he took up Sunday afternoon was a friend’s granddaughter. And he has given kids rides though the Young Eagles and ACE Camp programs. “If I can help create a pilot, that’s very gratifying.” 

Knobil moved to Maine from the U.S. Virgin Islands in 1988. He works in concrete. “It’s the opposite of aviation. You make big, heavy square things.” He's the corporate controller of American Concrete Industries in Veazie and Auburn businesses Superior Concrete and Aeration Systems.

In March, the Bowdoinham man started building a plane he’d always wanted, like everyone did when they were a kid, he said: the kind Peanuts’ Snoopy piloted atop his doghouse in dreams of being a World War I flying ace: a Sopwith Camel. It will take years to finish. Knobil has help from friends including his Bowdoinham neighbor, retired pilot Bill Saindon.

The same hangar wall with Knobil’s family history has a broken propeller from Saindon’s plane and a photo of how it broke five years ago: Landing at his home airstrip, Saindon struck a fawn. Deer-plane accidents happen more than people realize, Saindon, 80, said. He sold the plane last fall and is enjoying getting to help Knobil build the Sopwith Camel in Wiscasset. “Means a lot,” he said. On Sunday while the Wiscasset Newspaper was there, Saindon finished the ribs that will help form the wings.

The plane will be a modern take, with a metal fuselage instead of wood, and a radial instead of rotary engine, Knobil said.

The Wiscasset airport has been a great place to meet people and have unique experiences, Knobil observed. When Wings Over Wiscasset got rain one night, he invited war reenactors to bring their vintage motorcycles into the hangar. They declined to drink from plastic cups, staying in period mode with their tin cups. Then along came a man dressed in white, and looking at the RV-8.

The man with a German accent said a woman in France with a red RV-8 turned down his marriage proposal. Knobil knew a woman outside Paris who’d built a red one. He told the man her name; it was the same woman.

Summer and water go together and the Ed and Shelley Strozier family of Wiscasset has been making full use of both, visiting area water holes.

Shelley Strozier said the family visited Pinkham Pond in the Dresden-Alna area Sunday, July 14, then stopped at Here's the Scoop in Dresden, and husband Ed suggested a quick dip in Nequasset Lake in Woolwich. There, Strozier snapped a series of phone photos capturing Ed diving and their daughter Anna, 12, jumping into the water. "I stayed out of the water that round." Strozier explained she had already been in the water a lot when they were at Pinkham Pond earlier.

“I don’t like to jump in and out. Once I’m in I like to swim and float for hours,” she added.

Saturday, the family was at the ocean, on Bailey Island. “So (other) water compared to ocean water is always amazing.” The prior weekend, mother and daughter spent a day at the pool at Chewonki Campground in Wiscasset.

Strozier observed, “We’re so lucky to live in an area with a variety of places to cool down ... Love this state!”

The Pemaquid Oyster Festival, coming on Sunday, Sept. 29 from noon to dusk, will be dedicated to the memory of Charlie Herrick, who helped found the event in 2001, and dedicated himself to its success every year since then.

Herrick passed away after a short illness on Jan. 2, 2019.

"Charlie was an integral part of the Pemaquid Oyster Festival, and we will miss him this year," said Scott Folsom, Herrick's business partner at Schooner Landing Restaurant and Marina, where the Pemaquid Oyster Festival is held. "He loved the Oyster Festival ... It was tough work, but a fun day, and Charlie's good humor helped lighten the load for everyone around him."

Hosted by Schooner Landing and the Pemaquid Oyster Company, the Pemaquid Oyster Festival has raised over $150,000 since its' inception. The money is donated to the Edward A. Myers Marine Conservation Fund, which issues grants to a wide range of local groups in support of marine issues and education.

"This fund is intended to continue Edward Myers’ vision of having a sustainable working waterfront as well as protecting our marine environment; implemented through education and research projects with a focus on marine conservation," said Chris Davis of the Pemaquid Oyster Company.

For more information on the Pemaquid Oyster Festival, check online at pemaquidoysterfestival.com

Austin Trask scored Wiscasset’s only goal in a 7-1 loss to visiting Waterville in Central Maine Soccer League action Tuesday evening, July 16.

Trask’s goal came with three minutes left until halftime on a nice pass off the foot of John Hodson that came from the left side. The score came on Wiscasset’s third shot of the game and made it a 5-1 ballgame. Earlier, Josh Jones missed from inside the 18-yard line when his shot sailed over the crossbar and out of bounds.

Chris Williams netted Waterville’s first goal just five minutes after the opening kickoff. Two minutes later, he broke free, fired from inside the 18 and scored again. The visitors added one more goal before the first 20-minute quarter ended.

The game saw the return of Jordan Espeut to Wiscasset’s roster. The rising sophomore at Boothbay Region High School played varsity soccer for the Wolverines last year. It didn’t take long for him to make his presence known playing on the front line against Waterville. With the clock winding down in the first quarter, Chance Blagdon sent a pass to Espeut only to have Waterville’s stingy defense close ranks and clear the ball away.

No scorebook was kept but Waterville held about a 6-0 shot edge through the first quarter and 9-2 when referee Mike Stailing blew his whistle signaling the end of the first half. Wiscasset keeper LJ Travis made six saves in the first 40 minutes. 

A notable defensive play happened early in the game. Travis charged and deflected a Waterville shot. Casey Mills got the loose ball first and cleared it from in front of Wiscasset’s net.

The second half started with Mills making a long throw-in from the sideline to Espeut in front of the Waterville net. The goalie charged briefly leaving the net open but the ball was kicked wide and away. 

One Wiscasset player to watch is incoming freshman Payton Blagdon. He did a nice job handling the ball in the first half and could figure in the team’s offense.

Dylan Leeman spelled Travis in the net for the final 30 minutes of play and picked up a couple of saves.

Wiscasset has just two CMSL soccer games remaining this summer. The team will host Messalonskee next Tuesday at 6 p.m. on the Wiscasset Middle High School lower field. The team’s final game will be at Gardiner July 30.

The Wolverines will play a pair of preseason soccer games, the first Aug. 29 when they host Temple at 7:30. On Sept. 3, WMHS will host Richmond.

Wiscasset Parks and Recreation had 11 athletes compete in June at the Maine USATF qualifier at Scarborough High School under the coaching of Josiah Winchenbach.

To qualify, the athletes need to place in the top eight in their event for the age group. They all qualified in at least one of their events to participate in the USATF Junior Olympic Region 1 Qualifier/Championship in Long Island, New York on July 13-14. Region 1 includes 10 different Track Associations from Rhode Island, New York, Connecticut, Vermont, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New Hampshire and Maine.

They all performed very well and eight of the 11 athletes qualified to compete at the Junior Olympics Nationals in Sacramento, California by ranking in the top five in their event to qualify in their age group. Two are also Region 1 champions: Josie Harrington won the 15-16 girls high jump with a height of 5’2” and Carson Gross won the 17-18 boys high jump with a height of 6’5”.

The eight who qualified for nationals are proud of their performance.

From Saturday, July 27 through Sunday, Aug. 4, the public is encouraged to visit the Boothbay Common to meet eight accomplished Maine sculptors along with their guests from Japan and Canada as they create works of art from granite and other stone. The artists will work with a wide variety of hand and power tools to create pieces that will be sold at the Boothbay Region Land Trust's Points of View Art Auction on Thursday, August 8, or later join the Boothbay Harbor Region Sculpture Trail.

Artists enthusiastically invite the public to interact with them and watch the sculptures develop. It is sometimes noisy and dusty, but always fun to watch. Admission to the Symposium is free and open to all ages from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily.

The biennial Maine Stone Symposium is built upon the success of the Schoodic International Sculpture Symposiums, the J.C. Stone Symposiums as well as the Viles Arboretum Symposiums. It brings together Maine artists and international guests every other summer. The first was held at the Boothbay Railway Village in August of 2017. The Symposium is a program of the Maine Stone Workers Guild.

2019 participating artists include Andreas von Huene (Arrowsic), Mark Herrington (Franklin), Roy Patterson (Gray), William Royall (Southport), Dick Alden (East Boothbay), Dan Ucci (Pittston), Isabel Catherine Kelley (Portland), and Chris Lewis (Southport.)

The Maine artists are joined by Mai Morita and Shotaro Misake of Japan as well as Valisis Vasili from Halifax, Nova Scotia. Morita and Misake are traveling to Maine through the support of the Schoodic International Sculpture Symposium. Vasili is a Greek contemporary sculptor. His public work can be seen in Greece, Cyprus, Canada, Turkey, Germany, Albania and the US.

A large part of the Maine Stone Workers Guild’s mission and the sole purpose of its Education Fund is to train the next generation of artists and craftspeople. Stone is one of the most challenging mediums in the art world. Artists must not only learn about design and form but to be successful they also study geology and the characteristics of the stone they work with. To that end, two recent graduates from the Maine College of Art, Jude Collopy and Hideto Nakao, are attending the Symposium as assistants. Both studied under Professor Joshua Reiman, who also chairs the Sculpture Department at MECA.

A Commemorative Guide featuring profiles of all the artists along with samples of their work will be available in the welcome tent with a suggestion donation of $5. A pop-up gallery of smaller works will be available to view as well as for purchase. A fundraising raffle will be held for “Vessel with Hole” by the late Don Meserve. He was a teacher at heart and one of Maine's most beloved artists. When Meserve passed away, he transferred ownership of many of his works with the stipulation that they be sold to support arts education projects.  Tickets will be $5 each or five for $20, all proceeds support the Guild’s educational programs.

The Maine Stone Symposium is made possible through financial support from Knickerbocker Group, J.C. Stone, Down East Magazine, Midcoast Hospitality (Linekin Bay Resort, Newagen Seaside Inn, Russell House Bed & Breakfast and the Sheepscot Harbour Village Resort & Water’s Edge), Bath Savings Institution, Studio 53 Fine Art, Kennebec Rental, Schoodic International Sculpture Symposium, Topside Inn, Sweet Bay Shops, Down East Gallery, Tugboat Inn, J. Edward Knight Insurance, Tindall & Callahan Real Estate, The Inns at Greenleaf Lane, Gleason Fine Art, Sawyer Island Consulting, E.M. Wood Construction, June LaCombe Sculpture, Coastal Prime Seaside Dining, Boothbay Harbor Oceanside Golf Resort, Boothbay Harbor Country Club, The Thistle Inn, Oak Street Café & Catering, Ports of Italy/Ports Pizza, Pinkham’s Gourmet Market, East Boothbay General Store, T & D Variety, Cod’s Head Fish House & BBQ, Mine Oyster, Blue Moon Café, Caper’s Deli & Catering, Ledge Hill Creations, Estate of John Hart Fish, Campbell Marine, Uncle Phil’s Bakery, and William L. Royall Sculpture Garden.

For more information about the Maine Stone Symposium or its partner activities including the Boothbay Harbor Region Chamber of Commerce’s Sculpture Trail and the Boothbay Region Land Trust’s Points of View Art Auction, visit sculptureboothbay.com.

Before Head Tide Dam gets a new viewing platform that gives the fish more room to get through, workers at the Head Tide Road, Alna site need a place to work in the Sheepscot River.

They said that was the point of the heavy lifting Monday, with a crane from SumCo of Peabody, Massachusetts: SumCo site foreman Jarrod Martellucci was hooking one white bag of gravel at a time onto the crane, which raised each one up from the parking area and carried it toward the century-old, town-owned concrete dam. Martellucci estimated the bags at about 3,500 pounds each.

Inter-Fluve engineer Michael Burke said more than 100 bags are involved; they will form a coffer dam to keep the river water off workers; and he said a state biologist will come move any trapped fish. 

Burke has been on the project for years, aiding Atlantic Salmon Federation and a town committee in exploring and planning it.

“This is the next big step,” Burke, in a hard hat, said, smiling, midday Monday. He expected the abutment to come down later this week through next week. Then comes work on the new platform, starting in August, he said.

Asked his thoughts on the site, Martellucci said it’s one of the tighter ones he’s worked in, but there’ll be more room with the bags moved, he added. Workers have directed traffic as needed to get equipment in. A fence and signage went up around the work area earlier this month. 

In an email to the Wiscasset Newspaper Monday night, Midcoast Conservancy’s Senior Watershed Manager Maranda Nemeth said the project is “moving along very smoothly,” with demolition of the old gatehouse abutment set to start Wednesday.

“The demolition will widen and deepen that opening to improve the river flow regime. Then, we will begin to build a safer overlook, and walking paths and install benches and signage.” Until construction wraps up later this fall, the site will still be closed to swimming “and any other access,” she added. 

A special weekend is approaching for Wiscasset Speedway, a weekend that has been 50 years in the making. The track will be celebrating the 50th anniversary of its opening with a pair of special events July 27 and 28. The track, which was built by Wiscasset entrepreneur Wilford Cronk, held its first race on Sunday, July 27, 1969, and from that day forward has enjoyed the distinction of being Maine's fastest track. The track has seen many changes over the years, including name changes to Lincoln County Speedway, Superior Speedway, and Wiscasset Raceway. The track is currently owned and operated by Richard and Vanessa Jordan, who changed the name back to its original Wiscasset Speedway. Many of the states most accomplished racers have turned laps around Wiscasset's high banks and added it to their Hall of Fame resumes (Stan Messerve, Mike Rowe, Ralph Nason, Dave Darveau, Bob Hallee, Ricky Craven, and more).

Saturday, July 27 is the track's 50th birthday night celebration. As is the case with all shows, admission is just $5 with kids 6 and under free. When the gates open at 3 p.m., fans will get the chance to meet many returning track champions, and take in a special new display of the track's history. Then at 5 p.m., the race program will be highlighted by a 50-lap Pro Stock main event. The showcase of the evening will be the honoring of Wiscasset Speedway's inaugural Hall of Fame Class and recognizing the Cronk family for their work building and opening the track. The Hall of Fame Class spotlights a group of individuals (drivers, car owners, track officials, pioneers) who played a significant role in the initial success of the speedway. The night's festivities will end with a huge fireworks display.

The 2019 Wiscasset Hall of Fame Class includes former track champions Bill Bailey, Teddy Palino, Lawrence Reno, Buster Grover, Doug Ripley, Vern Hodkins, and Championship driver and car owner Dale Chadbourne; Track pioneers Ken Seigers and Elaine Grover; championship racer and track owner Dave St. Clair; Car owner Harold Hinkley, and track officials Leo Tanger Sr. and Willis Alexander. A special 2019 Hall of Fame display will be unveiled in the track's front stretch tower on Saturday.

Sunday, July 2, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the speedway will host “Summerfest,” an annual event put on by the Maine Vintage Race Car Association. The day is filled with vintage race cars, the Maine Vintage Mobile Museum, Maine Motorsports Hall of Famers, The Wicked Good Vintage Racers, Bingo's Barbeque Competition, and a live band. The event is open to the public and is the largest fundraiser of the year for the organization, which works to preserve the rich history of Maine racing, Admission is $5 for MVRCA members and $7 for non-members and includes a hot dog/hamburger lunch. People can upgrade to a $20 VIP ticket which will include the barbecue feast and voting in the competition's Fan's Choice Award. 

The full weekend schedule is available at www.wiscassetspeedway

Wiscasset Speedway is at 274 West Alna Road in Wiscasset. 

Join us this Saturday, July 27 for the 10th running of the Lobster Roll 5K. Run, walk or join us for the kids fun run. Race day registration opens at 6:30 a.m. at the Boothbay Region High School parking lot. The race is promptly at 8 a.m. followed by the kids run and awards. Neal Verge will also be honored for his dedication to the Boothbay community.

Register or come early for your race T-shirt and stickers with the newly designed anniversary logo (by Taylor Walby of Harbor Embroidery) before they run out.

For more information go to lobsterroll5k.weebly.com

This race is benefiting the Boothbay Region schools walking and running trails.

Football season is almost here. Registration for youth football will be held Saturday, Aug. 3 between 3 and 5 p.m. at 19 Murphy Road, Boothbay. Coaches will be on hand to answer any questions about the season.

Registration is open to kids from first through sixth grade who are residents of Boothbay, Boothbay Harbor, Edgecomb, Southport, Westport Island and Wiscasset.

The focus of the Boothbay Region Youth Football League is to teach the youngsters the fundamentals of tackle football while fostering a team environment and having fun.

BRYFL is part of the Coastal Maine Youth Football League. There will be practices held, regular season games (home and away), and playoffs following. Registration fee to play is $90.

For more information, call Mike Doucette at (207) 242-8200 or Steve Alexander at (207) 380-6270.

July 6 was a double celebration for one lucky frequent Southport visitor this year. For Rob O’Gara, it was the date he entered the world 26 years ago, and earlier this month, it was the date he married his dream girl. Long Island, New York native O’Gara married Isabel Wise, whose family has made Southport their summer home for decades. The couple was married in a Newagen Seaside Inn ceremony. 

The couple met in 2011 while attending Milton Academy in Massachusetts. O’Gara made frequent summer visits to Southport during their courtship. 

In planning their nuptials, the O’Garas had the perfect setting. They both love spending time in Southport, so the inn was an obvious choice. But the date was a bit more complicated. 

O’Gara is a professional hockey player and the National Hockey League’s training camp begins in six weeks. So finding a date in Newagen’s crowded wedding schedule was a big challenge.

“It really came down to Newagen only having a couple open dates, and my birthday was one of them,” O’Gara said.

But his job as a hockey player threw another curveball in the wedding plans. Besides the unconventional date, the couple also went on a non-traditional honeymoon. A post-marriage celebration would have cut into O’Gara’s hockey training.

And the 2019-20 season is a pivotal one for O’Gara. He has played four professional seasons with the last two in the New York Rangers’ organization. He was a defenseman for the Hartford Wolfpack in the American Hockey League. 

A back injury sidelined him for 30 of this season’s 82 games. So after a couple of operations, the couple decided early June in Italy for nine days was the best time for a honeymoon. 

“When I got hurt we had the foresight to plan the honeymoon first. Had we gone after it would’ve interfered with my training and rehab program. So the only concern we had was fitting into the wedding clothes because I really love Italian food,” he said. 

His injury and recuperation aren’t the only challenges facing his professional career. His contract expired at the season’s end. He is an unrestricted free agent looking to sign with another NHL team. “It’s an important time in my career and I’m looking for the right opportunity to sign and play next season,” he said.

O’Gara is a Neconset, New York native. He attended Milton Academy in hopes of expanding his hockey options after high school. He met Wise, now 23, while the two attended the school. Each summer, the couple spent time in the Boothbay region. They continue the tradition as a married couple.

“Between April and September, we both spend as much time as we can in Southport. We both really love it, especially the atmosphere. One of our favorite things to do is getting an ice cream at the Down East Ice Cream Factory which Isabel will swear is the best in the world,” O’Gara said. 

The O’Garas spent the July 20 and 21 weekend in Southport, and returned to their home near Boston for the week. Isabel is a management consultant for Accenture, a Boston-based marketing company. O’Gara is training  in rinks and gyms near Foxboro, Massachusetts with expectations of signing with an NHL team. 

After high school, O’Gara attended Yale University and played on the Bulldogs’ 2013 NCAA championship team. He was drafted by the Boston Bruins and traded to the New York Rangers. He has played for both the Boston and Providence Bruins. 

Midcoast Maine has one of the most beautiful coastlines in the world, but that beauty can hide hazards that can quickly ruin your day on the water. Geography, tides, weather and sometimes confusing aids to navigation can conspire to make even the most experienced mariners wish they’d stayed ashore.

U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 2-5, based at Coast Guard Station Boothbay Harbor, has created “Navigating Mid Coast Maine,” a navigation course based entirely on the local marine chart # 13293, which covers the area from Small Point to the west to Pemaquid Point to the east.

“Navigating Mid Coast Maine” is a four-evening, eight-hour (two hrs/night) course that will introduce you to the basics of navigation and trip planning while taking you to the far corners of the local chart.

“Local Knowledge” is an often recommended but sometimes difficult commodity to acquire; our experienced instructors have over 100 years of combined boating experience in the local area, and all are current or former certified small boat coxswains in the Coast Guard Auxiliary.

“Navigating Mid Coast Maine” will be offered for the first time at U.S. Coast Guard Station Boothbay Harbor, Aug. 5, 7, 12 and 14 from 6 to 8 p.m. each evening.

The latest edition of the #13293 chart is included in the course fee. Cost per person: $70. Roller plotter or parallel rule and dividers are required. Available “at cost” at the class.

To enroll or for more information, contact David Eastwood at davidbeastwood@gmail.com

Meet the many critters that make their home among the rocks, sand, and seaweed on Tuesday, Aug, 6 from 10 a.m. to noon at Reid State Park in Georgetown. The public is invited to join Kennebec Estuary Land Trust staff members and Maine Master Naturalist Volunteers, Becky Kolak and Ruth Indrick, to discover the fascinating, vibrant world of the intertidal zone. This free event is great for families, kids and adults.

Participants will gather at Griffith's Head, in the grassy picnic area between the parking lot and wooden roadway bridge. Activities include hunting for critters in the tide pools hidden along the rocky shoreline and a demonstration on how to spot the differences between common seaweed species. Folks will learn about the invasive European green crab and how it is impacting this tidal habitat and the animals that live there.

The program offered by KELT is free and open to the public. Participants will need to pay the state park entrance fee. This is a light rain or shine event and registration is strongly encouraged at https://www.kennebecestuary.org/upcoming-events/2019reidtidepooling

This event was generously sponsored by the Merrymeeting Bay Trust.

If you would like more information on this topic, contact Becky Kolak at 442-8400 or email bkolak@kennebecestuary.org

Boothbay Region High School senior and champion cross-country runner Will Perkins won the 10th annual Lobster Roll 5k Race on Saturday, July 27 in Boothbay Harbor. Perkins won with a time of 17:48. He was followed by his coach and race organizer Nick Scott, 18:00, and Jason Bigonia of Walpole, 18:15.

Ariel Frederick, 33, of Cambridge, Massachusetts was the first woman to cross the finish line. Her time was 21:58.

The race had 152 runners. “We have had a record number of sponsors,” said Scott. Proceeds will go to improving running trails at the high school, he said.

He thanked the volunteers and police for making the race possible. “To run a road race in downtown Boothbay Harbor takes a phenomenal (amount) of manpower,” he said.

The race was dedicated to Neal Verge, the starter of the Kids Fun Race.

 “He is the essence of a community member,” said Scott.

Among the senior runners was Jim Ryan, 65, of Westchester, Pennsylvania. in his 280th race. He had taken a six-month break following chemotherapy.

Johanna Olsen came in first in the Kids Fun Race.

Adeline Hall of Bremen and Ethan Fletcher won the under 14 class. Skyler Houghton and Soren Zimmer won in the 15-19 age group; Julia Class and John Fichera, the 20-29 age groupings; Kelli Hassey and David Roland, the 30-39 classification; Andrea Olsen and Jason Bigonia, the 40-49 age group; Jennifer Auber and Craig Henley, the 50-59 group; Carolyn Lanigan and Charlie Ault, the 60-69 class; and John Delvecchio, the over 70 group.

Randy Easter was the professional timer.

Midcoast Humane is preparing for its 14th annual 5K run and one-mile walk fundraiser, “Save a Stray 5K,” which takes place on Saturday, Aug. 24 at L.L.Bean’s Discovery Park in Freeport.

The Save a Stray 5K & Festival raises money to benefit the 3,500 stray, surrendered, and neglected animals that enter Midcoast Humane’s doors each year. Proceeds help provide medical care, food, surgery, vaccines, and comfort to shelter animals.

The festivities will kick off on Friday, Aug. 23 with an Adopt a Stray Event from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., where you can adopt your next four-legged family member from Midcoast Humane. L.L.Bean and Tall Tails want to make sure that each dog adopted at the event starts off on the right paw in their new homes, so they are generously sending each dog home with a L.L.Bean Boat and Tote filled with a “Tall Tails Adoption Kit.” L.L.Bean’s Food, Fun & Films weekly event follows with food trucks arriving at 6 p.m. and the family-and pet-friendly movie, “Bolt,” begins at dusk.

The fun continues with Save a Stray Saturday morning at 8, featuring a dog-friendly 5K run and one-mile walk which circles the L.L.Bean Flagship campus and downtown Freeport, as well as many new events. Throughout the weekend, Dock Dogs will also be set up for demonstrations and audience participation. 

Runners, walkers, and festival attendees are encouraged to bring their canine friends, though they must be leashed at all times.

L.L.Bean’s Dog Days of August, which follows the 5K run and one-mile walk, will feature a meet and greet with Maine Game Warden Kris McCabe and K-9 Morgan, a K-9 Demo from Bath Police Corp. Michelle Small and K-9 Sampson, Ask-a-Veterinarian with Dr. Bennett Wilson of Veterinary Quick Care in Freeport, animal communicator Judy Garbow, face-painting, a low-cost vaccination clinic, and more. Canine celebrities “Columbo” of Adventures of Columbo and “Millie of Maine” will also make special appearances. Complete event details are available on the event website at SaveAStray5K.org.  

Save a Stray festival goers are encouraged to compete in Midcoast Humane’s Canine Contests with their dogs for Fastest Ice Cream Eater, Best Trick, Costume Contest, and Best Pet/Owner Look-Alike for prizes. The contests will begin at 9:15 a.m. on the Discovery Park Stage.

Save a Stray participants will earn rewards for raising money through personalized fundraising pages. Rewards include L.L.Bean gift cards and a Midcoast Humane fleece blanket. Registration is $25 per person until the day of the event. Those who register by Aug. 16 are guaranteed to receive a commemorative 2019 Save a Stray T-shirt.

"Save a Stray is a fantastic way for our community to support Midcoast Humane’s mission to help make life better for animals and people in our communities,” said Nicole Evans, Midcoast Humane’s director of development. “Bring your dog and your family, get some exercise, and enjoy a gorgeous Maine summer day, while making a difference for animals that need our help.”

For those who are unable to attend Save a Stray on Aug. 24, individuals can sign up as a virtual participant to support the race’s mission.

Key sponsors for this year’s event at the “Animal Welfare Champion” level include L.L.Bean and Veterinary Quick Care Freeport. “Veterinary Care Crusader” sponsors include The Times Record and Bath Savings. “Community Animal Advocate” sponsors include Furniture Superstore, Downeast Dog News, and Modern Woodmen of America.

To sign up, donate, or get more details about the event, visit SaveAStray5K.org or call 207-449-1366, ext. 110. Registrations will also be taken at the shelter’s administrative building at 190 Pleasant Street in Brunswick.

On Saturday, Oct. 19, the Midcoast Sports Hall of Fame will induct eight more individuals into the Hall of Fame at their annual banquet.

Inductees for 2019 include:

Ann Betts Daggett – Ann graduated from Georges Valley High School where she played field hockey and basketball. She was a Courier Gazette All Star in field hockey her junior and senior years but basketball was her sport of choice. She became a starter for GVHS basketball her sophomore year, helping the team make the Western Maine semi-finals before losing to Traip Academy. The team was 15-3 that year. She was co-captain of the team her junior year, as they went 18-0 during the regular season, losing again in the Western Maine semi-finals to Livermore Falls.

The team was also undefeated during her senior year, accumulating a total record of 85-15 during her four years at GVHS. Ann was selected as a Courier Gazette All Star in basketball during her junior and senior years also. She went on to the University of Maine at Farmington where she played basketball for four years. Ann captained the team her junior and senior years, was an All Conference selection both those years and was a 1,000 point scorer in her career.

David Deshon (Posthumous) - It is said that David was one of the best athletes ever to attend Rockland District High School from 1951-55. David played football, basketball, and baseball all four years and track his sophomore, junior and senior years. Basketball and baseball were David’s best sports in high school. He was often high scorer for the Tiger basketball team, scoring over 20 points per game in many of the Tigers contests. As a baseball player for the Tigers, newspaper clippings often mentioned his heroics of hitting a home run to win the game. David went on to the University of Maine where he played basketball in 1955-56 and 56-57, and baseball in 1956 until a career ending injury occurred in 1957. David passed away in 2015.

Scott Graffam – Scott graduated from Medomak Valley High School in 1974 winning varsity letters in cross country, basketball and baseball. He was MVP of the cross country team his junior and senior years, helping the team achieve four consecutive years as Knox-Lincoln Champions. In basketball Scott won three varsity letters, as the team was ranked #1 in Western Maine in 1972 and 1974, and a fourth seed in 1973. Scott was selected best offensive player for Coach Art Dyer’s Panthers his junior year and MVP his senior year, along with being selected as a Bangor Daily News Honorable Mention All State selection. Scott still has the single game and season assist records at MVHS. In baseball Scott’s teams were Knox-Lincoln League Champions four consecutive years, making it to the Western Maine Final in 1971 and the semi-finals in 1972, 73 and 74. Scott went on to Colby College where he played basketball, winning a varsity letter three years. Scott continued on in basketball as a coach for the past 36 years. He has accumulated 370 wins with numerous tournament appearances and selected as Coach of the Year in the KVAC, Eastern Maine Class A and Northern Maine Class AA.

Neil Lash – Neil graduated from Waldoboro High School in 1959, playing basketball and baseball his junior and senior years. He went on to Gorham State Teachers College (USM) where he played four years of baseball. Neil also played baseball for the Friendship and Waldoboro semi-pro teams and the Auburn Aces.

In the mid-70s he was one of the top road runners in the state. Neil has coached numerous sports at the high school and college level, served as director of Hoop Camp and been the unofficial assistant AD at Medomak Valley High School since 2003. Neil has dedicated thousands of hours over the years improving athletic facilities at Medomak and working on home events. One of his greatest attributes is the hundreds of student/athletes that he has mentored over the past 54 years as a teacher and coach.

Bruno Mazzeo (Posthumous) – Bruno attended Rockland High School in the mid-1930s, competing on the track team. He was an outstanding distance runner, holding the mile record for over 20 years until broken by MSHF inductee Bob Hillgrove. Bruno became interested in the Boston Marathon in the early 30s and hitchhiked to Boston, sometimes sleeping on park benches, to participate in many distance races there plus the Marathon. Three consecutive years he won the Revere 12 miler. Bruno ran the Boston Marathon six times starting in 1936, finishing as high as seventh place in 1944, Bruno and his younger brother Emilio (Dave) took turns winning the Portland Boys Club 5 Miler in 1941 and 1942 and were considered several of the top distance runners in the country. Bruno was inducted into the Maine Running Hall of Fame in 1994.

Meridith Messer – Meridith grew up in Aroostook County, graduating from Washburn High School in 1990. She played soccer for Washburn then went on to UNE in 1990, transferring to U-Maine Farmington in 1991 where she played soccer, receiving All Conference recognition and being selected as an All American Scholar/Athlete. In 1996 Meridith was hired as the girls varsity soccer coach at Camden-Rockport High School and this is where her Hall of Fame journey began. In the 23 years of coaching girls soccer at Camden-Rockport (CHRHS) she has 245 wins, making the state playoffs 20 of the 23 years, being KVAC Champions five times, several Eastern Maine runner-up spots, Northern Maine Class A Champions three times and State Class A Champions in 2016, 17 and 18. Meridith has been selected KVAC Coach of the Year in 1996 and 2012 and State Large School Coach of the Year in 2016 and 2017.

Josh Nash – Josh graduated from Medomak Valley High School in 1995 where he played basketball and ran track. In 1995 he won the State 200 meter dash at the annual State Track Meet. Basketball was Josh’s game though, becoming the All Time leading scorer in Medomak Valley history. He was selected as Mr. Basketball for the State in 1995, Class A Tournament MVP in 1994, All Tourney Team in 1995, and All State Teams in 1994 and 95. He was All KVAC all four years of high school and in 1995 was Courier Gazette Athlete of the Year. Josh received a full basketball scholarship to the University of Maine, playing a key role his freshman year, only to have a career ending injury occur during his sophomore year.

Larry Terrio – At Rockland District High School Larry played football, basketball and baseball. In football, as a running back, he had a 300-yard rushing game, scoring three touchdowns. He was captain of the 1960 KVAC Champion basketball team that went 15-3 and played in the Eastern Maine Tournament. In baseball, Larry batted over .300. He was offered a scholarship to play basketball at Colby College. Larry has also made his mark in the Midcoast area as a coach at many levels, including Little League, Babe Ruth, and high school basketball and baseball. He served as the varsity boys’ basketball coach at RDHS for five years after serving 10 years as the assistant with teams making the tournament during 10 of those 15 years. Larry was hired as the first recreation director for the town of Thomaston in 1977 and was instrumental in starting many youth programs in the area, serving as president of several local baseball leagues, and initiating many special sporting events for both boys and girls.

The 15th annual Westport Island Shore Run, "Maine’s Best Little 10K Road Race,” a 10K Road Race and Fun Walk, will take place on Sunday, Aug.18, beginning at 9 a.m. (The 3.5 mile "Fun Walk" will start at 8:30 a.m.).

This USATF-sanctioned 10K race on bridge-accessible Westport Island — only an hour north of Portland — benefits the Westport Island Volunteer Fire Department, whose members direct traffic and provide logistical support at the race. Over the past fourteen years, the race has generated over $20,000 in proceeds for the firefighters.

The race will be on a USATF-certified course through scenic pine and fir tree forests and over two bridges spanning inlets to Heal Cove and Montsweag Bay.

Race sponsors so far include: Wayfair.com ("Everything for the Home!"); Maine Yankee; Sheepscot River Marine Service; Bath Savings Bank; Ames True Value Supply; Newcastle Jeep, Chrysler, Dodge; Norm's Used Cars; Crossroads Coffee Company; the Westport Island Brewing Company, the Westport Community Association and the Hampton Inn of Bath.

5K Sports Management will again be computer timing the race this year. Water stations, distance markers, post-race refreshments and award medals for overall winners and age categories will be provided. There will be raffle prizes and a special prize awarded to the male or female runner who sets a new course record. Race T-shirts guaranteed for those who register online by 5 p.m. on Aug. 2.

For more information and to register online, go to: www.westportisland.org. Come join us for this exciting race and help our firefighters.

The new youth football season doesn’t kick off until September, but the local team is signing up players. The Boothbay Region Youth Football League holds an initial player sign-up from 3 to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 3 at 19 Murphy Road in Boothbay. Registration is open to kids from first through sixth grade who are residents of Boothbay, Boothbay Harbor, Edgecomb, Southport, Westport Island and Wiscasset.

A second registration occurs on Aug. 12 prior to the team’s first practice from 5 to 7 p.m. at the upper field behind Boothbay Region Elementary School. The team will practice on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 5-7 p.m. until games begin Aug. 31 with a seven-game schedule. All games are on Saturdays. 

Calling all "person-powered" watercraft to this year’s Rowgatta – with a new location – Barters Island. This location offers a nice “do-able, yet still an event” 9 mile circumnavigation of beautiful Barters Island with a nice easy place to “put-in” and “take-out” at the Knickercane Boat Landing.

The event benefits the YMCA’s Aquatics and Healthy Living programs including the free second grade learn to swim program where all second grade students in the Boothbay region learn to swim for free, in partnership with local elementary schools.

Registration and information is available at the Y and on the website at www.boothbayregionymca.org. Individuals or teams are welcome to register a dingy, rowboat, canoe, kayak, stand-up board or any other seaworthy craft. There is a $40 fee for each participant who registers by 5 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 9, and a $45 fee per participant the day of registration on Aug. 10.

This Saturday, Aug. 10, registration and check-in at Knickercane Landing begins at 7:30 a.m., with a Rowgatta start time of 8:30 a.m.

Special thanks Tidal Transit Kayak Rentals in Boothbay Harbor for offering special rental rates, as well as delivery and pick-up to the site. Additional thanks goes to the Boothbay Harbor Coast Guard Auxiliary and our many wonderful volunteers for providing boat crew coverage as well as safety pit-stops along the way.

Please consider joining this special event, paddle a new route and help a great cause. Register this week at the Y or just meet us this Saturday at Knickercane Landing – just past the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens.

For more information and to register, contact Abby Jones at ajones@brymca.org or the YMCA at 633-2855 or go to www.boothbayregionymca.org

The luxury liner My Seanna arrived Monday evening and berthed overnight at the Wiscasset pier on the waterfront. Harbor Master Ray Soule told the Wiscasset Newspaper he had received advance notice of the yacht’s arrival and made arrangements with the public works department to accommodate it.

Soule said the sleek craft measures 185 feet from stem to stern and draws nine feet of water. The yacht is privately owned, and had been berthed at Fort Lauderdale, Florida, added Soule, who met and spoke with its captain. The boat departed at about 2:45 p.m. Tuesday from Wiscasset harbor for a planned four-hour cruise.

Soule said the ship’s owner planned to return to Wiscasset for the evening before departing on Wednesday. 

The Wiscasset Newspaper received multiple inquiries Tuesday from people who saw the unusual sight of the big yacht in the harbor. And Wiscasset seasonal resident Frank Barnako blogged about it.

My Seanna was featured on the Bravo program, Below Deck.