Holbrook’s Pond is back to looking like it’s supposed to and not like an overgrown mud puddle. This wasn’t the case last summer after a small dam gave way threatening the Wiscasset landmark at the junction of Route 1 and Old Bath Road.

The dam’s failure caused in part by its age resulted in a rapid drop in the pond’s water level. Its water source is a brook that is partially spring fed. Along with forming the pond, the dam regulates water as its funneled through a cement conduit that passes under the highway. The brook continues downhill into the woods, spilling into Bradbury Cove behind Castle Tucker.

“People noticed right away something was wrong because the pond was getting smaller every day,” said Wiscasset’s public works director Ted Snowdon. Water had gushed through the conduit so fast it had eroded the sandy banks around it partially exposing the town’s sewer main. In days, the pond’s water level had dropped more than two feet. Things were made worse by a long stretch of hot, dry weather that further shrank the size of the pond.  

Snowdon said the town needed permission from the Department of Environmental Protection to take on the project. He said the new dam is made of pressure-treated planking reinforced with steel. “We designed it so that it can be easily repaired or replaced if there’s ever a problem like this again.”

Due to Route 1 traffic, the bulk of the work was carried out on a Sunday. “We started early, around 4 o’clock in the morning,” said Snowdon, who operated town’s front-end loader while town crew members Matt Huber and Earl Babcock helped fabricate the new dam. The project was finished in September but it took until spring for the pond’s water level to return to where it used to be, added Snowdon.

Holbrook’s Pond was formed long before Route 1 was built. In days of yore, a small wooden bridge spanned the brook when travelers in horse-drawn wagons and buggies traveled southward over Old Bath Road. In 1905, an enterprising Wiscasset man named Foster Perkins dammed the brook and established an ice works there. Before refrigeration was invented, ice was sawed by hand into blocks during the winter, stored until summer then used to keep food cold and from spoiling.

Willow Lane’s Steve Christianson, a great grandson of Foster Perkins, said Ellsworth Holbrook bought the ice business in the 1930s and continued selling ice in town until 1948. From then on locals got to calling the small body of water Holbrook’s Pond.

“The ice business closed long before I was born but I’m fairly certain the old ice shed was still standing until the early 1960s. It was a fairly large wooden building on the north side of the pond close to where the dam is now,” he said. For years, Holbrook’s Pond was also a popular place where locals gathered to enjoy an afternoon or evening of ice skating. “I remember my mother taking me there to skate. That’s where all the kids who lived intown would go skating,” recalled Christianson.

Wiscasset’s sign welcoming visitors to “Maine’s Prettiest Village” once sat alongside Holbrook’s Pond. The sign was later moved to the opposite side of the highway.

Memorial Day has come and gone without one of Bill Campbell’s Balmy Days Cruises vessels: Balmy Days, Novelty, Bay Lady, or Miss Boothbay, on the water; without the graceful Schooners Eastwind or Lazy Jack gliding across the bay; or Cap ‘n Fish’s Pink Lady II or Harbor Princess. In mid-June, the Bennie Alice would have been transporting people to Cabbage Island for dinner, outdoor exploration and games.

But this year is like no other for commercial ships with their homeport in Boothbay Harbor.

Due to COVID-19 precautions set down by Gov. Janet Mills and most governors, these vessels cannot leave the dock until July 1 and cannot leave the dock with more than 50 passengers.

Bill Campbell of Balmy Days Cruises begins his 39th year July 1, operating Balmy Days and Novelty, two of the four boats in the business.

Cancellations started coming right off in March. “We’ve lost charters. For weddings this includes transportation to the ceremony or reception; rehearsal dinner parties, cocktail parties, sailing trips aboard Bay Lady; and an event on Damariscove Island.

“We’ve already lost Memorial Day and in early June our trips to Monhegan begin and we start operating every day (June 6). Those are lost, but the Island Inn will be the only lodging open to start off with,” Campbell said. “We are still the Squirrel Island ferry, but I’ve heard many families will not be coming because of the two-week quarantine. Many of them would have already been back and forth getting their cottages open.”

Due to the cancellations, still coming in, Campbell has decided not to operate Bay Lady or Miss Boothbay this year. Campbell said there was no way to observe the social distancing requirement – including from the crew – on these ships.

Campbell captains every season and hires two other captains and four or five deck hands. Usually his ships carry “pretty good crowds,” he said. The Novelty can have up to 79 passengers and Balmy Days, 130. With six-foot social distancing required and no more than 50 passengers permitted on a trip, Campbell doesn’t know how it’s all going to shake out.

“You can group families together, so we could seat a family on one or two benches ... We’re just playing it all by ear,” Campbell said. “The important thing is to keep the people safe.”

Due to the later July 1 opening, Cabbage Island Clambakes’ season will run through Sept. 27 this year. Co-owner Wayne Moore said they already have 4,000-5,000 reservations, despite 10 bus tours that canceled. For now, Cabbage Island Clambakes will begin operating on July 1, Wednesday through Sunday, at a reduced capacity. The plan is to resume the seven-day a week schedule in August.

Under Mills’ executive order, all passengers must wear face coverings when social distancing is difficult. All passengers must wear masking waiting in line, aboard the Bennie Alice, and anytime they are inside facilities on Cabbage Island.

No one will be permitted onto the Bennie Alice without a mask. Boat captains and crew will be wearing face coverings as well as staff on the island.

To check in, one person from each party Island-bound should go to the ticket booth to pick up tickets.

The bars aboard M/V Bennie Alice and on Cabbage Island will be for wait-staff service only.

“We can safely distance up to 100 people on the the Bennie Alice. And on the island – it’s no problem,” said Moore. “Our responsibility is to make people feel safe.”

Editor’s note: At press time, neither Cap’n Fish’s Boat Trips or Schooners Eastwind and Lazy Jack were available for comment.

 

Wiscasset Yacht Club is offering 12-hour private sailing instructions for adults June 8 through September. Classes will be held weekdays from 1 to 5 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Instruction is customized to suit the knowledge and comfort level of each participant, covering everything from why sails work to making them work. Students will also learn terminology, boat handling, safety, sail trim, basic weather, knots and rudimentary navigation. The cost is $150 plus basic instruction cost for non-members and $75 for members to support the WYC sailing program. 

For more specifics or to arrange your class, contact Tom Stoner at 207-205-2409.

Recently, partners from Midcoast Conservancy, the Town of Alna, Atlantic Salmon Federation (ASF) and The Nature Conservancy (TNC) met onsite at Head Tide Dam.

“We have had many inquiries about the alewife return this year: ‘Are they here yet?’ ‘Have you seen any fish?’” says Midcoast Conservancy’s Senior Watershed Restoration Manager Shri Verrill.

“We haven’t seen any fish, which means the Head Tide project was successful”, says ASF Vice President Andy Goode, who was looking for alewives with help from his son Ansel. They didn’t see any alewives at Coopers Mills where the dam was removed in 2018 but reported large numbers higher up in the watershed indicating alewives were readily reaching their spawning grounds.

There are often two or more other cars parked at the Head Tide site so it is clearly a popular spot for people to connect and enjoy the river. A trail camera has been installed to get a sense of how many people are accessing the viewing platform or beach. This will help with planning for recreation activities. It is also the hope that the community will pay attention to activity around the dam and be vigilant in the spirit of being good stewards of the common.

Plans are underway to move boulders to create another parking spot, increase safety, stabilize the lower steps and stabilize the containing wall on the beach, as well as to complete the final railing installation on the lower steps.

“It’s always an exciting time of year to be river-side while many fish like river herring are returning in their annual migration upstream to spawn. It was fun to watch my daughter squish her toes in the soft mud upstream of the dam and get as much joy from being near the water as I do. This is a favorite family spot and we will definitely be back soon,” says Molly Payne Wynne, Senior Freshwater Scientist of The Nature Conservancy Maine Chapter.

Verrill and Goode had plans to meet and install the camera that day; synchronicity facilitated the visit with Payne Wynne. Proper physical distancing and disinfecting of the equipment, practices suggested by the Maine CDC, were observed, of course.

Verrill and Payne Wynne took advantage of the surprise meeting to relax on the beach and discuss collaborative strategies for a regional citizen science smelt survey next spring and ongoing climate adaptation planning, while Clara made free mud pies and inspected the freshwater mussels in the shallow water.

With so much hardship surfacing during the n-COVID19 pandemic, the intergenerational interaction that resulted from Goodes’s and Payne Wynne’s homeschooling combined with fieldwork as conservation scientists and restoration practitioners  goes to show that the staff at  local land trust and conservation organizations are people with families too!

 “Being outside discussing next steps to our watershed scale restoration initiative with a little one running around just makes it seem like all is right in the world. I’m so grateful to work for an organization that truly values community, land, and water as integral parts of our mission. Same river, same trail, same beach…we are in this together and stronger for it”, Verrill reflects.

For more information on places anyone can enjoy the migration season, check out the Maine River’s alewife trail map https://mainerivers.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/2020-maine-alewife-trail-WEB.pdf

YMCA Camp staff for Central Lincoln County YMCA and Boothbay Region YMCA have been hard at work navigating the COVID-19 pandemic and its effects on how summer camp with operate this year. Camp Knickerbocker will be operating this summer, beginning on schedule starting June 15.

Although it has been the Y’s hope and intent to operate summer programs as it always has, the Y realizes that it must make adjustments to its programs and schedules to keep campers, staff, and community safe. With guidelines being released last week from the CDC, Redwoods Institute, American Camp Association, and State of Maine Health officials, the Y now has protocols in place that will ensure the safety of campers and staff.

As this is a rapidly evolving situation, one of the most important things the Y can do right now is to remain adaptive and flexible. The Y has taken into consideration and adapted to increased and advance health screening, sanitation throughout the day, frequent and scheduled hand-washing, recommended social distancing practices, personal protective equipment, cohorts of 50 or less, consistently followed foot traffic to maintain group separation, extensive staff training, new transportation protocols to ensure social distancing and use of PPE, and protocols if a camper must leave camp sick.

Due to the large size and area of both Y facilities and the acreage available at Camp Knickerbocker there are many places for campers to participate in activities and maintain consistent separation between camper groups.

Due to these changes to ensure that the Y’s Summer Camps maintain an appropriate level of safety some camps have been removed. To off-set the activities that cannot be offered this summer, the Y will be introducing new programs for your campers to participate in. Including:

Nature Exploration: This program will teach your camper all things nature — from the water cycle to different types of clouds, types of rocks to tree identifications and more.

Outdoor Living Skills: Depending on your camper’s age, this program will focus on knife safety, fire building, outdoor cooking for 1 person, knot tying and more.

STEM: The Y’s assistant camp director has been working hard to find STEM activities for your camper to participate in. All equipment will be single-use or will be used by only your camper and then sanitized before the next use.

Nutrition: This summer Camp K has a grad student joining us who is majoring in nutrition. This individual has a ton of activities planned around nutrition.

Outdoor gardening: The Y has purchased raised beds for your campers to tend to throughout the summer. The Y will be planting edible plants and then campers will learn about their growing process, how they can be used in cooking, and more.

Fitness classes: The Y has some talented group exercise instructors who are willing to come to Camp a few times a week to offer yoga, Zumba, and more. Each class will be held either on the centennial stage or in a field, and each person will be placed six feet apart.

Camp Knickerbocker & CLC Specialty Camps might be operating a little different than before, but it is the Y’s goal to provide a safe and fun camp environment for campers, staff and community. The Y’s staff teams met this week at Camp Knickerbocker and is very excited to provide a fun-filled summer for campers.

There are still spaces open to register for CLC Specialty Camps or Camp Knickerbocker. If you have not yet registered and would like to do so, or would like to request more information around how camp will operate this year, please contact Sarah Brewer, Camp Registrar at campregistrar@brymca.org

The far-reaching effects of the COVID-19 virus and the measures being taken to reduce its spread are applicable in many areas you may not have thought about. While state and local regulations vary, a common sense approach to healthy paddling will have a minimal impact on your paddle sports activities.

A graphic from the American Canoe Association gives a quick summary of the simple steps that may help to keep you safer on the water as far as spreading or becoming infected with the coronavirus.

As always, wearing an appropriate life jacket all times and being aware of the serious and immediate dangers of cold water immersion should still be your primary safety concerns while enjoying any paddle-sports activity on Maine’s beautiful but unforgiving waters.

The US Coast Guard Auxiliary is America’s premier boating safety education provider; for more information on paddle-sports safety and education, as well as a broad range of boating education resources, visit the national CG Auxiliary site at cgaux.org or the Boothbay Harbor flotilla’s site at: flotilla25.org

 

Alna’s attorney Amanda Meader has seen nothing in her municipal law career like the tension, meetings, letters, information requests and more around Jeff Spinney’s request for a dock project on the Sheepscot River. Second Selectman Doug Baston said, “Maybe it’s just the times we’re in, but it’s disheartening.” 

It is concern for the river and the town’s rules on business and shoreland protection, according to the residents who question Spinney’s plans.

The latest comments came on Zoom June 3 as Code Enforcement Officer Tom McKenzie reported finding Spinney had done none of the shoreline violations McKenzie said residents raised. And Meader said she doesn’t see Spinney’s Golden Ridge Sportsman’s Club as a business, as residents have maintained in arguing it needs a business permit. But she said she wants to dig into case law and leave no stone unturned, lest she be accused of bias.

Baston said he will base his vote on Meader’s recommendation. The board  took no action. Third Selectman Greg Shute said he was not ready. First Selectman Melissa Spinney, Spinney’s wife, was not in the meeting and has recused herself on the issue.

Resident Ed Pentaleri appreciated officials’ following up on his letter to McKenzie, but he questioned their thoroughness on camping and parking questions. “You spent a lot of time being mystified about what this was all about.”

Meader responded she spent her 15th anniversary at the site visit. “I’m pretty sure I wasn’t overly mystified, and I think it was productive.”

Pentaleri said in a text comment June 4, he remained concerned for the river and the community over what he viewed as the town not being inclined to enforce its shoreline zoning.

In the June 3 meeting, Spinney’s lawyer Kristin Collins said the group of residents has taken an “extremely aggressive posture ... Jeff is not trying to pull the wool over anyone’s eyes. He’s just trying to get his dock in and his ramp.” Collins said she would like to talk with the residents or a representative “and try to work some of these things out so we can stop involving the town in every step of this.”

“Oh, I’d love that. Take me out, Coach,” Meader said. “I’ve never seen anything play out like this” in any town, and she’s seen things get tense in some towns, she said. “But this is too bad, how this is working out. It really is, guys.” 

Baston asked for townspeople to work together like they did on the Head Tide Dam project, starting from different stances but reaching a plan people were happy with. Instead, this issue’s sense of someone having to lose and someone having to win is impacting the planning board, town staff and taxpayers, he said. 

Resident Carol Gardner said those concerned about the proposal have not dug in their heels. They are very willing to talk and to compromise, and have offered to, she said.

Residents reiterated their concerns for the river. Dale DesMueles told the meeting, when she saw a photo Spinney took of the area, “I thought, ‘Wow, this is such a jewel. Why upset this area’ ... We live along this river and we are stewards of this river. So we’re not taking this lightly.”

Baston asked Jeff Philbrick to get on a planning board agenda for a business permit for Philbrick Family Band. Shute asked anyone else in the shoreland zone who needs one to get one. Philbrick said he has nothing to hide, and will apply. Mark DesMueles said Baston’s bringing it up – amid the Spinney project talks Philbrick, a Spinney abutter, has been part of – looked punitive. Baston said Philbrick’s business was brought to his attention and he brought it up informally, to avoid possibly enjoining the band from operating.

A planning board public hearing on Spinney’s proposal began May 29. The hearing resumes at 6 p.m. June 11.

Asked via text after the June 3 selectmen’s meeting, was he feeling better, worse, or about the same on the whole matter, Spinney said: “Cautiously optimistic.” 

Also June 3, selectmen opened what they believed may have been a record five snowplowing bids, from Goodall Landscaping of Topsham, Gordon A. Libby Forest Products of Waldoboro, McClintick Foundations of Nobleboro, Jeff Davis of Woolwich and the current contractor, Hagar Enterprises of Damariscotta. The board did not give bids’ details. Selectmen planned to pick finalists and have each make their best and final offer; releasing the first bids would mean the finalists would know them, Baston said.

Monday, June 8, the town announced a special selectmen’s meeting June 10 to award the plowing contract, act on Meader’s definition of a business under the town’s building code and call a referendum for more money for attorney fees. 

Looking for a break from the political and pandemic-related news of the day? Look back with us on summer’s beauty to date, and further still to spring’s daffodils, super moon and, one May morning, footprints in the snow.

Got a scenic to share? Email pix@wiscassetnewspaper.com 

Alna selectmen are asking voters at the polls July 14 for another $50,000 for legal costs. “I hope that’s enough,” Second Selectman Doug Baston said via Zoom June 10 as the board set the referendum.

Selectmen said the town has racked up about $25,000 in legal costs so far this fiscal year that started in February. Except for about $1,000 to get a tax anticipation note and $1,350 for Bob Faunce’s help with planning board bylaws, the costs have mostly been for town attorney Amanda Meader’s help fielding issues residents have raised with Jeff Spinney’s dock and ramp application, selectmen said. 

Selectmen said a lot of that has been responding to residents’ information requests. Recent costs also include Meader’s help with a public hearing, and her help determining if Spinney’s Golden Ridge Sportsman’s Club needs a business permit as several residents have maintained. June 10, Baston and Third Selectman Greg Shute accepted Meader’s recommendation the club lacks the revenue and services to be a business as the town’s building code defines it. First Selectman Melissa Spinney, Jeff Spinney’s wife, did not vote.

Joining the meeting by phone, Meader called the ordinance broad and noted sometimes towns refine their rules.

“You’re always sort of fighting the last war,” Baston said, citing his planning board years. “You find an issue like this you never thought was going to be an issue, and you fix it, but then something else pops up ... There’s no perfect ordinance. That’s what keeps lawyers and courts in business.”

Cathy Johnson is one of the dozens of residents who have long questioned Jeff Spinney’s proposal. Reached by phone after the meeting, she said: “We’re very disappointed” with the select board’s decision. “It’s clear that the (club’s activities) have the potential to have a significant impact on the Sheepscot River,” and many legal issues “absolutely” remain besides the business question, she said.

Johnson reiterated the residents’ stance the proposal does not meet zoning on multiple fronts; Spinney and his lawyer have maintained it does. The planning board resumes the public hearing at 6 p.m. June 18 on Zoom.

Also reached by phone, Jeff Spinney said: “I feel the decision is appropriate based on the law ... Things are not decided in a subjective manner ... It’s done consistently based on the actual law,” and there is a process for change, “but that doesn’t affect what’s currently in play ... I’m not going to allow this (proposal) to get hijacked.”

Selectmen said the holding the legal costs referendum July 14, state primary day, saves election costs and spares taxpayers a second tax bill. Spinney said the town will commit taxes after the referendum.

Selectmen changed plowing firms from longtime contract-holder Hagar Enterprises of Damariscotta to Holbrook Excavating of Woolwich. Selectman Spinney said in a phone interview post-meeting, attracting five bidders was wonderful. She credited a plowing committee’s efforts and the board changing when and how it seeks bids. “And I think it paid off.”

Selectmen said Hagar’s contract last year was for about $201,000; for the next three years, Hagar bid $205,326, $213,559 and $218,550 and was not one of the finalists the board sought best and final offers from. Holbrook’s was for $185,600, $189,312 and $193,098; the firm came well-recommended, Baston said.

Reached later, owner Evan Holbrook said the firm was honored to be chosen. The firm has plowed before in Woolwich and Dresden, which were bigger jobs, and Arrowsic, a smaller job than Alna. The firm prefers plowing towns – a better schedule than plowing businesses, which need the snow hauled, he said.

Holbrook noted his great grandmother Gertrude Tarr grew up in Alna. “We landed in the Wiscasset area in 1751, so we’ve got a deep history in the area and we haven’t gone far,” he added. Tarr married Holbrook’s great grandfather Edwin Holbrook of Wiscasset, where the couple lived before buying the Woolwich property Evan Holbrook still lives on.

Selectmen discussed writing a letter of thanks to Hagar co-owner Seth Hagar for doing a good job and for his willingness to work with the board over the years. In picking a firm, the board wanted to “get the best bargain while still getting the same level of service for the town,” Shute said.

This month was to feature the 58th year of the (Boothbay Harbor) Windjammer Days Festival. And this year marks the seventh year Friends of Windjammer Days has been directing its course. This year is also the region’s first year without a Windjammer Days, due to COVID-19.

Friends of Windjammer Days (FWJD) formed in late 2013 after Boothbay Harbor Region Chamber of Commerce announced it would no longer be at the helm of the festival. The chamber board chose Friends to take the festival into the future.

In 2015, FWJD’s second year, the festival became a week-long event with the addition of a lighted boat parade, lobster eating contest, and Tug of War Across the Harbor.

The event featured five pulls and 10 teams of 10-12 people. Teams took turns pulling from the Footbridge parking lot and from the east side property of the late Steve and Margaret Branch, for a total distance of 700 feet! The tug was held at low tide. Tug team champions: Knickerbocker Group – 2015; Marden Builders – 2016; Bud Light team – 2017; and Clear Stream Construction – 2018 and 2019.

In 2016, to keep the spirit of the region’s former Fishermen’s Festival alive, FWJD added three of the Fishermen’s Festival events to Windjammer Days: the Blessing of the Fleet, Cod Fish Relay Races, and a youth talent show based on the former Shrimp Princess Pageant, but this show included girls and boys. Past winners: 2016: Miss Windjammer: Emerson Harris; 2017: Miss Windjammer: Suzie Edwards; 2018 (a tie!): Miss Windjammer: Sarah Harris and Sophia Mansfield; 2018: King of the Harbor: Spencer Pottle; and 2019: Alana LaCourse.

In 2019, to help youth be a part of the festival, the student T-shirt contest was created. That first year, eight students submitted designs for shirts. FWJD chose Boothbay Region Elementary School eighth grader Grace Campbell’s. In 2020, over 40 students in grades two through 12 submitted designs. The committee chose BRES fifth grader Chau Nguyen’s. With the festival canceled, the light blue T-shirts were being sold at the Gimbels’ store The Smiling Cow.

This year’s festival was to be held June 21-29 and was billed as Boothbay Harbor Windjammer Days & Tall Ships Festival. For this bicentennial year, FWJD had gone all out to bring new ships to the event, including the Oliver Hazard Perry, Fair Jeanne and When & If, as well as familiar schooners Lynx and Alert. And, 2020 was also the year the Victory Chimes was returning for Windjammer Days after an absence of about 15 years.

Other ships expected were Heritage, American Eagle, Eastwind, Agness & Dell, Ardelle, Ernestina-Morrissey, Lewis H. Story, Lazy Jack, Mary E, True North, Tree of Life, Sycamore and Jenny Ives.

But, not to worry, Windjammer Days fans. The Festival will return in 2021, June 27-July 31. Until then, enjoy this special commemorative. And, for all things Windjammer Days, including a history of the event all the way back to the first one in 1962, visit www.boothbayharborwindjammerdays.org or Friends of Windjammer Days on Facebook.

Windjammer Days Street Parade themes and Grand Marshals

 

Can anyone out there fill in the few unknowns in the list?

 

1989 – Lighthouses of Maine –

1990 – Thank You – U.S. Coast Guard Admiral Hayes and Otto Graham

1991 – Salute to the Sea –

1992 - Family Fun – Local Special Olympians

1993 – Ode to A Lobster – Community Band and Katherine Cook

1994 – Celebrating Harbor Past Times - Bill Danforth

1995 – ? – ?

1996 – Mariner's Mardi Gras – Capts. David and Marion Dash

1997 - ? - Don Wotton

1998 – Famous Captains – Brud Pierce

1999 – Creatures of the Sea - The Yentsches/Bigelow Laboratory

2000 – Boats, Boats, Boats - Bill Danforth

2001 – Mariner's Mardi Gras – ?

2002 - Small Town Salute to Liberty – Ground Zero first responders and local emergency responders 

2003 – Sailors and Sirens – Marylouise Cowan

2004 – Hook, Line & Sinker - Charlie Begin, Rusty Court and Dean Morrison

2005 – To The Rescue – Dr. John Andrews & the Boothbay Region Ambulance Service

2006 – Rogues & Wenches – Roger Duncan

2007 – High Seas Adventure – Laura Honey

2008 – Wonders of the Sea – Earle Barlow

2009 – Working Waterfront – Bud Brackett

2010 – Our Happy Harbor – Ramona Gaudette

2011 – Welcome Aboard! Going Green, Maritime Madness, Red, White & Blue and Break A Leg- Al & Becky Roberts

2012 – 50th WJD – Mary Brewer, Estelle Appel, Tim Hodgdon, Joan Rittall and George McEvoy

2013 - Our Happy Harbor, Most Nautical, Most Outrageous or Most Nostalgic – Sally “Sparkles” Bullard

2014 - Our Happy Harbor, Our Community and Maritime Heritage – Vice Admiral James B. Perkins III

2015 - Our Happy Harbor, Our Community – Arthur Webster

2016 – Our Happy Harbor – Mac Andrews

2017 – Our Happy Harbor – The Blake Brothers, Gary, Joe and Neil

2018 – Our Happy Harbor – BRHS senior Page Brown – the youngest grand marshal to date!

2019 – Our Happy Harbor - Lady Seahawks basketball team



 

 

 





Over the past three months, children in the Boothbay region and across the country have found themselves inundated with virtual interactions. Classroom lessons arrived by email, and show-and-tell required sitting still and paying attention to a screen populated by rows of tiny faces. Instead of warm hugs from grandparents, kids had to suffice with Facetime. And while parents scrambled to get in a day’s work, they often turned to more technology to ‘babysit’ in place of what had once been enriching afterschool activities.

While doctors and child development experts have long stressed the importance of limiting screen time particularly among young children, it seemed that there was little choice given the constraints of our new world. This dilemma was recently highlighted for me during my nine-year old daughter’s virtual well-child appointment. Her doctor could not help but share a sympathetic laugh after asking the standard question: how much time do you spend in front of a screen each day, and I found myself shocked and uncomfortable admitting the answer.

Parents and children alike breathed a collective sigh of relief when arriving at the end of this school year. And now, with several months of summer weather stretched out in front of us, the time is ripe to help our children disconnect from technology and provide them with more authentic outlets to excite their imaginations. Luckily, in our quiet coastal community, we have the perfect alternative to screen-time right outside of our front doors.

Nature with its incredible variety and diversity provides the ideal venue to stimulate a child’s curiosity. The endless intricacy of the natural world invites children to use all of their senses, to move and to run, to observe and experiment. Countless studies have pointed to the benefits of nature for a child’s development, citing brain stimulation, improved concentration, better communication, increased creativity, and improved mental and physical health. The consensus is clear — kids have everything to gain from getting outdoors!

We are fortunate to live in the Boothbay region where nature abounds. In our community, most families have at least a small yard, and Boothbay Region Land Trust offers access to outdoor spaces that are within a short drive of all areas of our peninsula. So now is the time to encourage your child to get outside for at least an hour every day, but more if possible. For children, there are few if any screen-based resources that could offer more enrichment than a grassy yard, a stand of woods, or even a gravel driveway.

 

This summer let them run, imagine, dig, get wet, get muddy, hike, bicycle, explore, take risks, and be bored. In a world that is overflowing with heartache and strife, our community can at least ensure that kids throughout the region have a summer to disconnect.

Whichever way Alna’s planning board decides on Jeff Spinney’s proposed dock project, Alna’s lawyer expects a court challenge. After the final two hours of public comment June 18, Amanda Meader polled members on their “brain power and will to live,” and said because their decision will end up in court, she wanted to make sure they were fresh enough to hear from Spinney’s lawyer and maybe start deliberations Meader said would take “really close, careful thinking and talking.”

Meader said she was tired. This work for Alna has had her awake at 2 and 3 in the morning; and before Thursday night’s meeting, she got another “8,000” emails on it, she said.

The board heard Spinney’s and his lawyer Kristin Collins’ rebuttal to public comment and waited on deliberating. Member Jim Amaral said doing it then would be too taxing “to do justice to the job ...”

The board set a 6 p.m. Tuesday, June 23 Zoom session. Meader asked if members would be comfortable meeting at the fire station. “It would be so much easier if I could have my board in the room.” They declined.

Thursday’s Zoom session finished a hearing that started May 29. Opponents again argued the project would break town rules and impact the natural setting they said the rules aim to protect, unless Spinney pares it to something that would be for his family’s and occasional guests’ use. Project opponents reiterated their love for the river, including its peacefulness and wildlife.

“In Alna we have a long tradition of dedication to preserving historical and environmental treasures, and our town ordinances reflect that,” resident and town archivist Doreen Conboy said.

Spinney abutter Jeff Philbrick told board members he would “implore” them to paddle that part of the river with their most cherished loved ones, then decide Spinney’s request.

Spinney said he is considering foregoing four upland posts and considering limiting use of his shoreland, to 10 Golden Ridge Sportsman’s Club members. Opponents have raised concerns the club and the site’s use would grow.

Resident Tim Richards supported the proposal. “This project is totally fine ... We’re making a much bigger deal out of this than it should be, and could be.” He said when he sought residents’ signatures to add to a letter, “I thought we might get 20. We got over 100.”

Meader said she would accept no more emails after midnight that night. Collins objected. She said anything received after the meeting should be paid no attention. “Fair enough,” Meader said. “And I’m sure I’ll just get a whole bunch of emails on that, too.” She told attendees, “Be safe, be well, I’d say be kind. Well, try to be kind.”

In an email earlier Thursday to some of the public comment filers, Second Selectman Doug Baston wrote in part: “I understand the passions on both sides of this, but it really doesn’t matter how many supporters or opponents there are. The job of the planning board is a judicial one. They are to ignore the outside noise and apply the language of the ordinance to the facts at hand. It matters not whether they or anyone else likes the outcome. Knowing them as I do, I am fully confident that they have the character, intelligence, and good sense to do the job we appointed them to do.”

From chattering birds, to verdant meadows and bustling waterways, the signs of summer have arrived at Boothbay Region Land Trust. Yet another marker of the season is the return of summer caretakers at Damariscove Island and the start of BRLT’s conservation intern. These supporting staff help ensure that the land trust’s public lands are accessible and well-maintained during the busy summer months.

This year, BRLT is happy to introduce Claire Pellegrini as its conservation intern. Claire will be working from Oak Point Farm and across BRLT’s public preserves, primarily supporting the land trust’s stewardship program. Claire grew up in southern New Hampshire in a family that encouraged her connection with the natural world. “My mother always enjoyed gardening and my father loved walks in the woods,” Claire explains. “I never realized how much that was a part of me until I arrived at college and began exploring courses of study.” Claire soon discovered botany, and quickly developed a passion for plants. “I was fascinated not only with species identification and variety, but even with learning about cell structure and biology.”

As a child, Claire visited her grandparents on Barters Island every summer and has fond memories of walking the trails at Porter Preserve with her family. “This is how I fell in love with the Maine coastline,” she notes. Visitors may see Claire at a variety of preserves over the course of the summer, learning stewardship and conservation techniques. Claire will also be sharing her experiences, observations and work with the public through BRLT’s website and posts on social media.

At Damariscove Island, BRLT is pleased to welcome back Ed Vlcek and Bailey Romaine for their second summer as caretakers. Last year, Ed and Bailey did a remarkable job overseeing the trails on Damariscove, as well as welcoming and supporting visitors throughout the summer. Their considerable expertise in land stewardship and carpentry lent itself to the maintenance of the island’s public lands, as well as the physical structures on the island. During the off-season, Ed and Bailey officially relocated to Midcoast Maine full time, spending the past nine months living and working on the Bristol peninsula. BRLT could not be more thrilled to have them back again. Ed and Bailey look forward to reconnecting with regular visitors and continuing the work they began last season.

Visitors to Damariscove may notice some slight changes this summer in response to the COVID-19 health crisis. In the interest of ensuring the health and safety of the staff on the island, all guests are asked to refrain from approaching or entering the vicinity of the caretakers’ cottage. As usual, BRLT will continue to offer two complimentary moorings for guests that which are clearly labeled, as well as a complimentary dinghy. Caretakers will be on hand to assist visitors and answer questions throughout the summer. As with all BRLT preserves, visitors at Damariscove should adhere to social distancing guidelines, avoid visiting the island when ill, and practice good hygiene habits such as hand sanitizing before, during, and after visits. Guests should continue to be mindful that the life-saving station is private property, and that lobsterman work off of the stone pier. We thank all visitors for their understanding and consideration of these restricted spaces on the island. Thank you for ensuring that the summer is a safe and healthy one for all who enjoy BRLT public lands and islands.

 

Alna planning board members said June 23, they want to protect the Sheepscot River and that voters did also when they passed the town’s shoreland zoning in 1993. Part of what members are still sorting out is, does the river need protecting from Jeff Spinney’s proposed dock and ramp project and, if so,  could it be approved with conditions that protect the river.

Three and a half hours on the proposal that night were the board’s first hours deliberating on it. The board finished taking public comment June 18. During Tuesday’s Zoom session, member Jim Amaral announced some viewers were sending him messages. He said he was not sure that was appropriate; he and town attorney Amanda Meader told viewers not to.

Later in the session, Amaral said he was stunned and dismayed at Spinney’s take on the board’s talks. Spinney said the board was evaluating a “myriad of things” when the only thing to discuss involving the shoreland zoning is the landing area, since he already has a dock permit and “that dock is going in.” Amaral and Meader said the board was following its process for dealing with an application. 

Talks resume Monday at 6 p.m. on Zoom.

The board mulled if the ramp on-site is a structure; if it pre-dates the shoreland zoning ordinance and, if so, did its use ever lapse after the town adopted the ordinance. It also talked possible conditions on approval including narrowing the dock two feet and limiting use to prevent an impact on the river from Spinney’s Golden Ridge Sportsman’s Club; enforcement of any conditions set; and board member Laurie Hiestand said the ordinance might need amending to address boat launches: “It’s obvious that we don’t have the right language to guide us.”

Participants noted, for the application before them, they needed to work with the ordinance as-is.

Amaral said the club could have very little or a very large impact on the river. He spoke of a need to protect the river as he said residents wanted to, when they made the ordinance. He described seeing eagles and osprey on a recent kayaking trip from Sheepscot to Bass Falls. He called the river “a remarkable resource the town needs to protect ... I think we really need to carefully consider the impacts of Jeff’s project on the river.”

“Jeff is protecting it from erosion in that area, from washing away,” member Taylor Mcgraw responded.

Member Tom Albee said the state limits crafts’ speed on the Sheepscot. “There’s a safeguard right there.” And he told Amaral, “It’s kind of harsh in a way to just deprive people access to the river. You’re going to be declining every application that ever comes up ... going into the future, from what I’m hearing from you.” 

“That’s not what I’m saying at all. What I’m looking at is the sporting club,” Amaral said. He doubted people would object if Spinney was just repairing or replacing the dock for his personal use.

In a phone interview later, Spinney said there was “nothing encouraging” about the meeting. He reiterated he felt the board discussed things outside its scope.

Two of the proposal’s opponents, Ed Pentaleri and Cathy Johnson, said the board was going though the ordinance, including the parts residents have cited, and it is important for the board to keep doing that. “I really appreciated the clear effort (board) members ... demonstrated toward working fairly and systematically through the issues. As long as they require the applicant to satisfy the burden of proof to demonstrate compliance with the ordinances, I think we’ll have a good outcome,” Pentaleri said.

At 12 and a half feet long and built of plywood with a pair of designs Herb Smith found in WoodenBoat, the latest Appledore will be launched privately in Boothbay Harbor, probably this month, the Newcastle man said.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the ceremony is for family only, the boatbuilder, author and former Disney animal photographer said. “The spirits are coming,” spirits of family and friends who have died, he said.

A recorded bagpipes version of “Amazing Grace” will play from the bow,  “because it’s purely amazing grace that (wife) Doris and I finished this boat,” he said. He cut up and threw away his first try. “Something told me to start again. I (did) and something didn’t work out.” Again, he cut it up and threw it away, he said. He was getting the directions wrong.

“And the third time ... just by working persistently, 15 minutes a day and when I felt in the mood, and it’s done, eight months later.” It is built for two: “Doris and me.”

Smith’s wife of about 46 years did not go for his idea to name the boat after her. So instead of Doris R, it will be Appledore Child, in homage to the part of her childhood spent on Appledore Island, off Kittery.

Appledore Child has no motor. “Strictly sail. If the wind dies, we paddle it.” 

As he spoke by phone, he said Doris, back from grocery shopping, was sanitizing everything she bought. Interviewed later, she explained why she did not want the boat to bear her name. “He’s building the boat. It’s his boat,” and it will be fun to ride in together, she added. “He’s almost 80 years old. But he hasn’t stopped. He continues to dream, and to build.”

He also still writes books. The latest, still underway, involves Doris’s youth. She said he claims he saw her on Appledore Island when he was sailing around there. “But at that point, I was so young, I couldn’t have cared less,” she said, laughing. “You know he is 10 or 11 years older than I am.”

The Smiths have built or have had built five Appledore schooners. Herb said, “This is the sixth Appledore.”

 

Open water swimming is always an adventure because there are so many different elements at play, from the water temperature, to sun, wind, and plants. Swimming is already often seen as an intimidating sport to engage in at a pool, where there are less variables and a black line to guide you on a straight path from one wall to the other. The goal of the Boothbay Region YMCA's new Open Water Masters Swim program is to offer a safe open water place for adults to get a swim workout and have access to coaching. All workouts will take place at Camp Knickerbocker's waterfront. 

Janelle Munson-Mcgee, aquatics specialist and Master’s swim coach, will be the designated coach to help facilitate workouts with swimming, and instruction to help build overall fitness.
Janelle is an experienced swim coach wo is prepared to help develop these nuanced techniques, in a structured outdoor workout environment. The Y is fortunate to be capable of providing a space to swim with others in a socially distant fashion and provide a coach that can alleviate some of the uncertainties and worries about open water swimming.

On a local level, Janelle has coached several members of Boothbay's Masters swim program to participate in various triathlons around the state of Maine last year including the Pemaquid triathlon.
This Open Water Masters Swim Program will be held from July 6-July 31 and Aug. 3-Aug. 27, Monday-Thursday 5:15-6:15 p.m.

This program is offered to Boothbay Region YMCA members only and all participants must be at least 18 years of age or get approval from Janelle to participate, be able to comfortably swim 100 yards, and tread water for two minutes. FMI, please contact Janelle Munson-McGee at JMunson-McGee@brymca.org

 

While the Boothbay Region Land Trust preserves are well known for their scenic beauty, many may not be aware of the rich history behind these captivating properties. In recognition of BRLT’s 40th anniversary, it will be releasing a series of four short films with companion articles highlighting some of its most iconic nature preserves. The series will touch upon the histories, features, uses and environmental significance of each featured property. The first in this series recognizes Ovens Mouth Preserve.

Ovens Mouth has been an important regional landmark on the Boothbay peninsula as far back as historical records have been kept. From pre-colonial Native American accounts through the present day, the unique waterways at Ovens Mouth have provided a vital link for the region’s economic activities, its diverse marine ecosystem, and its outdoor recreation.

The name Ovens Mouth is used to refer to the narrow passage connecting the Sheepscot River to the extensive Cross River tidal basin. The dynamic narrows showcase a massive tidal flow each day where currents can move at over five knots. Ovens Mouth Preserve encompasses two of the three small peninsulas on the south side of these narrows, providing access to over five miles of recreational hiking trails with stunning shoreline views.

Some of the region’s most sustained economic activity has ties to Ovens Mouth. In pre-colonial times, Ovens Mouth was an important shortcut for Native Americans traveling between the Sheepscot and Damariscotta Rivers. Later when European settlers arrived and eventually colonized the region, the water routes including Ovens Mouth formed the major transportation hubs. The land surrounding Ovens Mouth was privatized and converted to pasture for agricultural use. Apple trees found on the preserve are evidence of this agrarian past. In later years, the land was reforested, though it remained working land, and was utilized for timber harvesting well into the 20th century.

Other industries also took advantage of the convenient location to access the waterways and major transportation routes. While Boothbay Harbor has a long and storied history in shipbuilding, one of the region’s earliest shipyards was located in the Ovens Mouth basin. Another emblem of the region’s economic past is Ice House Cove, the cove between the eastern and western peninsulas of Ovens Mouth preserve where the current pedestrian bridge crosses. In 1879, this cove was dammed to prevent the fresh water in the cove from mixing with the tidal water. The ice that formed on this freshwater ice pond was shipped by schooner mainly to Boston and New York during the height of the ice boom. When crossing the pedestrian bridge today visitors can see the remains of the stone and earthen dam. The dam no longer stands and today water flows freely in out of the cove, restoring the land to its natural state as a salt marsh.

In 1994, Boothbay Region Land Trust purchased the 146 acres making up the eastern and western parts of the preserve. At the time, the two peninsulas remained distinct preserves until 1999 when a 93-foot pedestrian footbridge was placed connecting the East and West sides of the preserve and producing the land trust’s most extensive trail system. Installing this bridge was a huge engineering feat requiring beams that were specially shipped to Wiscasset from the Midwest with a police escort. In Wiscasset the beams were loaded onto a barge in the early morning hours. The barge had a custom built frame to hold the beams in position so that they would land on the cement abutments correctly when the tide receded. At high tide a crew lined the barge into position and then waited in anticipation as the tide went out to see if the beams would land correctly. The two beams settled down perfectly onto the abutments. At this point the barge was on the salt marsh side of the dam. The metal support frame was cut off, and as the tide went out the barge just fit under the bridge and floated over the dam—an incredible engineering success! Today the bridge at Ovens Mouth provides one of the best spots for nature observation.

As a nature preserve, Ovens Mouth provides an incredible array of diverse habitats for the region’s marine and terrestrial wildlife. Seabirds rely on the salt marsh for feeding. These intertidal coves also provide important protection to juvenile fish, shrimp, and crabs. And from mud flats to deep-water passages, the area supports a great diversity of key species including lobsters and clams. So while the marine resources continue to support the local economy, the miles of intricate waterways and shoreline trails provide countless recreational opportunities to the public from boating and kayaking to hiking and birding. One thing is certain, Ovens Mouth has always been and remains today an essential landmark that enhances the lives of those who live in and visit the Boothbay region.

Readers are invited to view the companion film and learn more about Ovens Mouth by visiting bbrlt.org/news.

Acknowledgements and thanks to Dawn Kidd and Bob Krist for their support in research and film production.

Alna planning board’s 2-2 vote on Zoom Monday night sank Jeff Spinney’s request to revamp his ramp on the Sheepscot River. Tom Albee and Acting Chair Taylor McGraw decided the ramp was a legally non-conforming structure grandfathered from the town’s 1993 shoreland zoning rules. Jim Amaral and Laurie Hiestand voted it was not. 

Amaral confirmed with town attorney Amanda Meader, a tie means no. Spinney said in a phone interview later, his lawyer Kristin Collins was preparing a response to the board, possibly asking it to reconsider “because (what occurred) clearly is wrong.” He said there were multiple grounds for that and for an appeal, if there is one.

The vote came about an hour into the second night of deliberations. Talks ran three and a half hours June 23.

At the start of night two, Meader announced Collins informed the town over the weekend,  Spinney was withdrawing the dock part of his application. That left the ramp. Collins has said Spinney proposed regrading it and bringing in materials to stabilize it. That will help control erosion, Spinney has said.

The board mulled if the ramp pre-dated the ordinance and, if so, did it keep being used or, for lack of use, did the grandfathering lapse.

Amaral said past landowners reported no ramp was used there and that townspeople said there was. But he said none stated the ramp was used after voters adopted the ordinance. And vegetation in a photo he cited also did not indicate a ramp, he said. That is not necessarily a way to tell, according to McGraw. He said most years he is on the river three or four times a week; sometimes grass is visible, sometimes it isn’t, he said.

“There was clearly evidence of gravel on that shoreline,” McGraw said. He said based on the statements the board has received, “I do believe ... the homeowners may not have used (it) but (other) people sure did. It’s pretty clear here from all the people who’ve said they have ...”

Albee said, “The ramp has been there a good number of years.”

Amaral said no evidence was presented of ramp use from the mid-1980s until Spinney bought the property in the early 2000s. “Show me the evidence, because that’s what we have to base a decision on. And it’s Jeffrey’s  burden, and I don’t see it.”

Former Lincoln County planner Robert Faunce – in the session for his “expertise,” Meader said – suggested having to show a boat ramp was used is “a pretty tough test” to ask of a landowner. He said showing a commercial structure’s use is a lot easier than for “a pretty primitive structure located far from the residence (and) used at best on occasion over a period of years.”

After the vote, Collins asked if Amaral was chairing the meeting. Amaral called the meeting to order, asked Meader to tell about the development over the weekend, introduced the questions for the board to take up, said that earlier Monday he gathered and circulated to members the public statements the board had received about the ramp; and called for motions, including adjournment. McGraw has been acting chair while Spinney, the board’s chair, recused himself when the board took up the application.

“I was just wondering because (Amaral) sort of served in that role the last two meetings,” Collins told the board. McGraw said Amaral has been a help but was not appointed chair.

In the phone interview after the vote, Spinney said the deliberations had a number of flaws. He said, regardless of how the vote went, the board should have continued through fact-finding steps in case of appeal, and he took issue with Amaral’s circulating of materials before the meeting. That was not all the information the board has received, Spinney added. Watching the deliberations was “terribly frustrating,” he said.

Spinney said anyone he chooses can still use his property. With a town permit he already had, he has replaced the wooden seasonal pier and wooden seasonal ramp system leading to floats, with a seasonal, aluminum ramp from the shore to floats, he said. It is anchored to a granite block onshore, Spinney said.

Resident Cathy Johnson has opposed Spinney’s planning board proposal for several months. She said in a post-meeting phone interview, “The Sheepscot is Alna’s most important natural asset, and I’m really pleased that the planning board, at least some members, carefully applied the shoreland zoning ordinance and concluded that the project was not consistent with (it).” She and others “will certainly be paying attention” to see if Spinney appeals, Johnson said.

As our climate changes, the timing of natural processes, including blooming of flowers and greening of vegetation is shifting and presenting challenges for birds and farmers alike.  For Bobolinks and Savannah sparrows, two ground-laying grassland bird species, any mismatch between their response to climate change and the response of farmers to climate change, could be detrimental. The Kennebec Estuary Land Trust (KELT) invites the public to join us virtually on Thursday, July 9 at 6 p.m. to discuss the dynamic relationship between climate change, the migration of songbirds, and shifts in the practices of hay farmers. Join KELT Land and Development Coordinator, Maeve McGowan, and the University of New England’s Dr. Noah Perlut as they discuss the migration of grassland songbirds, Bobolinks and Savannah sparrows, in the context of a changing climate and a working agricultural landscape.

Maeve is a recent graduate from University of New England where she studied environmental science and researched migratory birds and climate change. With her research project, she set out to understand the response of Bobolinks, a long distance migrant, and Savannah sparrows, a short distance migrant, to climate induced phenological changes. Throughout her project, it became evident that the mismatch between the responses of farmers to climate change and the response, or lack thereof, of grassland birds is creating a dynamic challenge that may have implications on conservation efforts.

Dr. Noah Perlut, Environmental Studies Department Chair and Associate Professor at the University of New England, has been studying breeding populations of Bobolinks and Savannah sparrows in Shelburne, Vermont for nearly two decades. Since 2002, Dr. Perlut and his team of research assistants have been gathering in depth data on these breeding populations in order to have a robust, complete understanding of the species. Dr. Perlut has been published in numerous scientific journals, encompassing his work with grassland birds, forest songbirds and gulls. His expertise include breeding systems, migration, dispersal, life-history strategies and more. 

Registrants will receive a Zoom link to the web-based lecture following their registration and again before the event. For more information or to register, visit www.kennebecestuary.org/upcoming-events/grasslandbirds2020 or call (207)442-8400. Attendees will have an opportunity to ask questions in the registration link and the chat box during the meeting. 

The Kennebec Estuary Land Trust is a membership supported organization dedicated to protecting the land, water and wildlife of the Kennebec Estuary.  It maintains twelve preserves for public enjoyment and has protected 3,700+ acres of land since founding in 1989. FMI and to view KELT’s 2019 Annual Report, visit www.kennebecestuary.org/2019-annual-report or call (207) 442-8400. 

 

 

 

 

As he said he might, Jeff Spinney decided to ask Alna’s planning board to reconsider its June 29 rejection of his proposed ramp project at the Sheepscot River. Spinney, the board’s chair, said he will chair the parts of the July 7 meeting that involve other applicants and not chair his two requests: a permit for earthwork above the high tide line; and the request to reconsider the ramp vote.

To not reconsider it would be absurd, Spinney told Wiscasset Newspaper July 1. He has cited a number of issues with the board’s deliberations, including a review of some but not all communications on the history of the ramp’s use. That was an egregious mistake, he said. In a July 1 email to Spinney’s lawyer Kristin Collins, member Jim Amaral explains why the other items did not make it into a packet he compiled.

Spinney sent Wiscasset Newspaper the email. In it, Amaral requests of Collins, “in the future whenever you present written materials in a Zoom meeting that you also send copies of those materials to the board via e-mail. I hope this clears up your question and indicates that my efforts were considerable and in no way were intended to prejudice your client or mislead my fellow board members.”

Members split 2-2 over whether or not the ramp Spinney sought to regrade and stabilize at his Golden Ridge Road property is a legal, non-conforming structure grandfathered from the town’s 1993 shoreland zoning.

The board Tuesday is also set to take up Midcoast Conservancy’s request to further landscape Head Tide Park; Joan Belcher’s and Jeff Philbrick’s requests for home business permits, Belcher’s sign request and Corey Lander’s request to put in a split rail cedar fence.

The board meets on Zoom at 6 p.m.

 

Please help us support two great causes! The Boothbay Region Food Pantry and the new, improved sustainable community trail system behind the Boothbay Region schools! (Look for more information about the trail soon!)

Register for $25 at runsignup.com under Boothbay Harbor Lobster Roll 5K.  Order your Lobster Roll 5K T-shirt (included in registration) download the map, run or walk the course anytime between July 1 and July 31 and post your photo to our Facebook or Instagram pages! We will have a T-shirt pick-up day or mail your T-shirt to you in August. 

Or, if you cannot join us in Boothbay Harbor, run or walk the 5K from wherever you are — we will send you your T-shirt.

For more information go to lobsterroll5K.weebly.com

Thank you for supporting the Boothbay region and hopefully we will all be running together again next year.

 

For those who like to take time to “stop and smell the flowers,” there are plenty of interesting blooms to draw your attention. One that deserves a second glance is the small but striking yellow rattle, a flowering plant distinguished by the odd shape of its blossom--folded yellow petals sticking out of a green clam shell-shaped structure. These flowers are currently in bloom and can be observed in the fields at Oak Point Farm as well as at similar meadows around the region.

The scientific name for yellow rattle is Rhinanthus minor meaning ‘small nose flower’ (referring to the unique shape of the flower). The common name of the plant is inspired by the noise the seeds make when they ‘rattle’ around in air-filled pockets where they are stored before dispersal. The plants will not rattle until later in the year after they finish flowering. This plant is common across New England and thrives in fields, meadows, and areas disturbed by humans. Yellow rattle is native to Europe, but is naturalized in Maine. 

Yellow rattle is not only interesting in shape, but it also has a fascinating survival strategy. It is hemiparasitic, which means it gets some of its nutrients by feeding on the sugars of nearby plants. Though the plant has green leaves and produces some of its own sugars through photosynthesis, under the surface the plant also has a specialized root system that attaches to the roots of its neighbors. Yellow rattle’s favorite hosts are grasses, which tend to have large fibrous root systems perfect for the parasitic plant. Initially this parasitism may sound like it would negatively impact an environment, but some studies have found that the plant actually increases biodiversity! By weakening prevalent grasses in a system, yellow rattle allows other plants to grow in fields that would normally be overwhelmed by just a few types of aggressive grasses. So keep your eyes open for this unique bloom the next time you head out for a walk.

Claire Pellegrini is studying Botany at Connecticut College and is Boothbay Region Land Trust’s 2020 Conservation Intern.

 

The Boothbay Sea and Science Center (BSSC) is thrilled to share that their virtual program officially opened on Monday, June 29. This summer, youth ages 5-17 are coming together online to explore what lies between the surface and the seafloor, how weather impacts the habitats of the critters that live in the sea, where trash in the ocean comes from and where it goes, the stories that record and preserve Maine maritime history and tales of the sea, and how a boat is different from a ship.

The BSSC instructors have created an awesome summer program that fosters imagination and promotes creativity in all of their participants. The Center’s dockside touch tank and classroom saltwater aquariums are up and running providing the opportunity for an up-close look at the sea creatures that make their home in the Damariscotta River. Transitioning to a virtual platform, they have posted videos on the BSSC website that embraces the spirit of their uniquely integrated sea and science program. And in keeping with an onsite tradition, BSSC’s story time coming online soon.

For more information about the BSSC online summer program, please visit their website at www.boothbayseaandsciencecenter.org

Also feel free to email your questions to info@boothbayseaandsciencecenter.org or call Pauline Dion at 207-350-5357.

When Jody Jones, the executive director of the Damariscotta Lake Watershed Association, and Steve Patton, executive director of the Sheepscot Valley Conservation Association, sat down together in 2014, they imagined a new organization that would be broad and deep enough to protect Midcoast Maine’s vital lands and waters on a scale that would have meaningful impact. Fast forward to 2020, which finds Midcoast Conservancy — now the product of three land trusts, DLWA and a nature center preserve — thriving and making a difference. Jones took the helm at Midcoast Conservancy’s inception and has guided it expertly for nearly five years.

Jones recently announced her retirement, which will take effect on July 31. Her news has been met with sadness, but also with immense gratitude and accolades for what her leadership has meant to Midcoast Conservancy’s success. Founding Board President Susan Russell said, "As board chair, I had the great privilege of working closely with Jody from the beginning of Midcoast Conservancy.  She navigated the merging of the founding organizations into one very potent conservation enterprise with sensitivity and respect for their strong cultures and histories.  Her talent for creating positive partnerships, and encouragement of staff and board alike to aspire to a new conservation vision, fueled Midcoast Conservancy's remarkable growth and success over the past 4 1/2 years.  She'll be a hard act to follow!"

Beloved by staff for her collaborative, affirming and trusting leadership style, Jones has indeed set a high bar for her successor. Anna Fiedler, Director of Land Conservation, has been with Midcoast Conservancy from the start. Of Jones, she says, "Jody has been a strong voice and tireless advocate for the benefits this work provides to all, especially the wildlife both on land and in the water."

During Jones’ tenure, Midcoast Conservancy has grown from 6,500 acres to over 13,000, including the 1,000 acre Hidden Valley preserve in Jefferson. Water quality efforts on Damariscotta Lake have continued to keep invasive Hydrilla at bay and provided erosion control opportunities for shore property owners through grant-funded project assistance. The Sheepscot River has seen two major projects restore fish passage through the Head Tide and Coopers Mills dams. Community programming designed to get kids and families outside has flourished; trailers of fat tire bikes, cross country skis and stand-up paddleboards traverse the organization’s service area to provide recreational opportunities on communities’ local preserves and trail networks.

Jones’ career has been defined by her strong desire to create a cleaner, healthier world for all to enjoy. A self-described “fresh water girl”, she has a Master’s degree in Wildlife Biology and had a long career as an Ecologist at Maine Audubon before taking the helm at DLWA. Buck O’Herin, Midcoast Conservancy’s Board President, says, “Jody's passion for Maine’s environment spans decades; we are deeply appreciative and are honored to have worked with her to make Maine a better place.”

Jones looks forward to an active retirement, running the roads of Arrowsic, visiting her two adult daughters in Bar Harbor and Baltimore, spending more time with her husband, Jack Witham, and ensuring that she leaves no Maine beer untasted. A search committee has been formed to begin the process of identifying a new permanent Executive Director. An interim director will be named in the next few weeks. 

 

 

Alna planning board’s Jim Amaral and Jeff Spinney’s lawyer Kristin Collins agreed July 7: They wished the board would stop having ties. The two disagreed on whether or not to let Spinney present a proposed earthwork project that night. The board tied 2-2, then voted 3-1, Amaral dissenting, to let Spinney present. He did, and members will review the proposal July 27, when they also plan to reconsider last month’s 2-2 vote that defeated Spinney’s proposed ramp project.

In supporting Spinney’s reconsideration request, Amaral said because a packet he gave fellow members did not include two letters Collins cited, “I do feel personally that it’s important to have all the information that was presented be included in our deliberations.” The board agreed 4-0 to reconsider the June 29 vote at 6 p.m. July 27.

As for the new proposal, Spinney seeks to do work above the high water line. According to his application dated June 30, he wants to do regrading, resurfacing and stabilizing upland on his 126 Golden Ridge Road property and do roadwork Collins said will not involve reconstruction.

Former Lincoln County planner Robert Faunce advised the board to table Spinney’s proposal to allow time to study it, including how it might relate to the ramp one the board is reconsidering.

“The summer is going away,” Collins replied. “Jeff has work to do and a limited amount of time to do it. And unfortunately with the opposition being what it is, he can’t expect to do any of it without three layers of appeal and Freedom of Access requests.” She said she believed if members put off the new matter, it would be because they expect opponents to bully them.

“That’s an incorrect statement,” Faunce said. He said it was because they got the application two hours before the meeting. Spinney clarified in the meeting and an interview, that material was part of his planned presentation that night; it was not the application. He applied June 30, using the town’s form for that, he said.

As of July 9, Wiscasset Newspaper was aware of no opposition to the proposed upland work.

Collins and Spinney questioned why Faunce was taking part in that item and not those of other applicants. Selectmen wanted him there, Amaral said. Second Selectman Doug Baston confirmed it via text later: “Yes, as a technical resource to the board, in lieu of the town's attorney. We thought tonight would be perhaps relatively low key and we wouldn't need the attorney there. Trying to save a little money.”

Also July 7, the board accepted Joan Belcher’s business permit application for Nurse at the Helm Insurance, 111 Sheepscot Road; and Jeff Philbrick’s, for Philbrick Family Band, 134 Dock Road. The board set a 6 p.m. Monday, July 13 site visit at 79 Head Tide Road for Corey Lander’s proposed split rail cedar fence with posts and two split rail cedar fences with gates.

The Kennebec Estuary Land Trust and Midcoast Conservancy invite the public to learn about the lives of Bats! Join Jan Collins, Maine Master Naturalist, for a live webinar on Thursday, July 23 at 6 p.m. to learn about her studies on bats in Maine. This free event is great for naturalists 10 years old and up!

Jan Collins is a 26-year veteran high school science teacher, a former interpretive specialist for the Appalachian Mountain Club, a two-time Appalachian Trail thru-hiker, co-author of “Forty Nature Walks in Southern Maine,” and a 2016 graduate of the Maine Master Naturalist (MMN) program. Her presentation on “Maine Bats - On the Path to Extinction?” was her capstone project for the MMN program. She is a native of Maine and lives with her husband Irving Faunce on their blueberry farm in Wilton.

Maine Bats - On the Path to Extinction? will introduce Maine's eight native bat species little brown bat (ME endangered), long-eared bat (ME endangered and federally threatened), small-footed bat (ME threatened), tri-colored bat, hoary bat, silver-haired bat, and eastern red bat. The life history of bats, biology, myths and threats to their continued existence will be discussed. If you used to spend summer evenings watching the swooping and diving of bats, but have not seen one in years, you are not alone.

Registrants will receive a Zoom link to the web-based lecture following their registration and again before the event. For more information or to register, visit www.kennebecestuary.org/upcoming-events/2020/7/23/maine-creatures-great-amp-small-bats-on-zoom or call (207) 442-8400. Attendees will have an opportunity to ask questions in the registration link and the chat box during the meeting.

This talk is the second in the “Maine Creatures Great & Small” series co-hosted by KELT and Midcoast Conservancy this summer. We encourage you to also mark your calendars for the third lecture of the series as Philip DeMaynadier discusses Dragonflies on Thursday, August 27. For more information, visit www.kennebecestuary.org/upcoming-events or call (207) 442-8400. FMI about Midcoast Conservancy, visit www.midcoastconservancy.org or call (207) 389-5150.

Saturday’s fog, showers and clouds broke, making a sunny, breezy midday for one family’s first time at Alna’s Head Tide Dam. The Fairleys were visiting from Massachusetts.

Some members rode inner tubes down the Sheepscot River toward a relative’s home. The rest stayed behind, having fun wading, discussing resident wildlife the family has named and, for sisters Aila, “almost 9,” and Avery, 3, taking turns in an inner tube.

“Off they go,” the girls’ uncle Kevin Fairley said earlier as he gave a final push to one of the inner tubes their river-riding relatives were taking downriver.

Aila and Avery’s mother Jessica Fairley and other family members remarked on the spot as beautiful and nice for spending time in. Atlantic Salmon Federation made over the access area and part of the town-owned dam last year.

 

The Abenaki didn't keep a guest log on Damariscove, nor did Francis Popham when he claimed ownership of the island in 1604. There is likewise no evidence that Capt. John Smith, who stopped by the fishing colony in 1614 while mapping the region, signed in. Nor did Edward Winslow of Plymouth Colony during his well-documented visit in the spring of 1622 when he sought fish after a difficult winter at Plymouth colony (the fish was given to the colony as a gift).

It was not until The Nature Conservancy gained ownership of the island in 1966 that the tradition of a guest log commenced. Since then, travelers from near and far have documented their visits to the island and recorded their thoughts and comments in the logbook. In 2005 when management of the island preserve transferred to Boothbay Region Land Trust (BRLT), the tradition of the guest log continued, uninterrupted.

Unfortunately this summer, for the first time in over fifty years, BRLT has been required to temporarily suspend the tradition of the guest log sign-in due to the COVID-19 pandemic. While public safety on the preserve is BRLT’s top priority, it is disappointing to disrupt this much-loved tradition. For those visitors who miss the opportunity to document their journey and to glance through the log at the many others who came before them, this is an opportunity to reflect on past visitations at Damariscove and to remind ourselves that while it feels like a quiet summer on the peninsula, our region is much loved by people throughout the world.

In 2019 about 865 guests signed the guest log on Damariscove. A fair number of folks choose not to sign in, including "regulars" and those who visit pre- and post-season when the log is not maintained by staff. A reasonable estimate for total visitation for 2019 is 1,300 individuals or groups.

Guests came from 27 states and D.C. International travelers signed in from Canada, France, Germany, Republic of Korea, Sweden, Switzerland and Thailand. In contrast, Damariscove also had visitors from nearby Newagen, Ocean Point and Squirrel Island. Possibly no one traveled thousands of miles just to visit Damariscove, but it is clear that for many, their time on the island was the highlight of their vacation.

Reviewing the guest log comments is a joy. Visitors include folks who have been there before: "...love this place. It's been a while." "We're back!" and "Back after many years." A returning family noted that they were bringing guests, "First time for some."

Visitors found the island "a magical place," "a gem," "special" and "dear to our hearts." Some commented at the relief the harbor offered after days at sea, while others said it is their "favorite place on Earth." Likewise, comments are rich in appreciation for the natural beauty at Damariscove, with reflections like "The most beautiful day there ever was!" and "Happiness is finding this island."

Hikers frequently complimented the caretakers' fine work on the trails. One party said that they returned with cake for the caretakers, and, unable to find them, they ate the cake themselves!

The youngest age given to a visitor in the guest log was 5 and many kids drew small pictures of boats and bugs and birds. The oldest age given was "94 years young." Also logged are visits from “Bigfoot” and a “pirate” (pirates usually don't sign in...).

Boaters arrived aboard unnamed kayaks and vessels with names like Lively, Gigi, Kathleen, Grace, Misty, Hotspur, Scout, Lunacy and the SS Minnow. One vessel's name—Perpetuity—coincidentally paid tribute to BRLT’s conservation commitment at Damariscove Island. Folks who had such wonderful experiences on the island can continue to do so in perpetuity with the stewardship provided by Boothbay Region Land Trust. Yes, kind visitor, Damariscove is a "treasure in Maine,” and with luck, next summer we’ll again be seeing comments from those visitors around the world who enjoy our treasure.

Mike Pander is a longtime BRLT volunteer caretaker at Damariscove Island.

ROCKLAND — Usually the “fit out” season to get boats ready for sailing goes from March through late May with a Memorial Day start to the season for the Maine Windjammer Association, the largest fleet of working windjammers in America.

This year, it’s taken until mid-July for boats to start sailing, but the hurdles to start the season have gone well beyond fit-out.

The COVID-19 pandemic put a halt, according to a news release, until July 1 when Governor Janet Mills allowed overnight windjammer cruises in Maine to re-open.

Throughout that time, members of the Maine Windjammer Association were busy working with the Deptarment of Marine Resources to create guidance for a safe sailing environment, the release noted.

To sail in 2020, the overnight windjammer trips need to meet guidelines for lodging, restaurants and windjammers on top of the rigorous Coast Guard licensing requirements. To date, two of the eight members of the fleet have opted to sail in 2020.

No sector of the tourism industry is required to meet such stringent guidelines, yet for captain Noah Barnes of the Schooner Stephen Taber, the guidelines ensure that passengers will be safe.

“We’ve taken it one step further than the already stringent protocols, and are asking every guest who comes sailing with us to attest to a negative COVID-19 test,” said Barnes, in the release. “This is one way we can safeguard the guests and crew on board this summer,” he added.

In addition, stringent sanitization and cleaning, social distancing and safety protocols will be in place for those sailing this summer. 

The Schooner Ladona will be the first to set sail on Saturday, July 18. Schooner Stephen Taber’s first trip will leave the dock on July 23 with live entertainment provided by the Charlie Nobles Band.

“We’re doing everything we can do to help people get out and enjoy a sailing vacation on board a beautiful windjammer this summer,” said Barnes. “We’ve put safety measures and cleaning protocols in place and changed itineraries to visit more remote uninhabited islands to give plenty of room for social distancing while ashore. Will it be the same kind of windjammer cruise everyone knows and loves? Hey, you can’t take the beauty of the Maine coast or the freedom of sailing by wind power away. The rush of jumping off the bowsprit into refreshing Maine harbors and knuckling down on a lobster baked on the beach will still be ingredients of your windjammer trips this summer.” 

Six of the Maine Windjammer Association fleet captains have opted to cancel trips this season and are looking toward 2021, for a variety of reasons.

All members of the Maine Windjammer Association have already created 2021 schedules, available on SailMaineCoast.com for those who like to plan trips in advance.

“We’ve had some huge hurdles to overcome in order to leave the dock this week,” said J.R. Braugh, Captain of the Schooner Ladona. “We’re glad that we’re going to be able to offer guests the ideal summer vacation in Maine — sailing aboard a beautifully restored wind-driven schooner taking in Maine scenery and allowing Mother Nature to soothe stressed bodies, minds and souls in the perfect unplugged vacation.” 

The lakes and ponds of the Pemaquid River watershed are a unique and valuable natural resource. Their health is the topic of an online conversation hosted by Coastal Rivers Conservation Trust from 5 to 7 p.m. on July 30.

Coastal Rivers’ Director of Education and Citizen Science Sarah Gladu will offer updates on ongoing initiatives to monitor water quality and control the spread of aquatic invasive plants. She will also share what we know about water quality in certain lakes and ponds based on the data gathered by Coastal Rivers volunteers.

Guest speaker Tracy Hart, who is the Loon Count Program coordinator for Maine Audubon, will join the program to discuss loon biology and local populations. 

As time allows, Gladu will address questions and concerns related to ecology, water quality, and things nearby homeowners can to protect these lakes and ponds.

The event is free. Registration is required online at coastalrivers.org/events

Tracy Hart is a wildlife ecologist who facilitates community involvement in science and conservation, including the Annual Maine Loon Count, the Forestry for Maine Birds Song Meter Project, and the Fish Lead Free Initiative. She has worked with a variety of organizations to promote environmental problem-solving and experiential learning opportunities in the U.S. and abroad.

Coastal Rivers Conservation Trust is a non-profit, nationally accredited land trust with active programs in land conservation, water quality, trails and public access, and nature education in the Damariscotta-Pemaquid region. For more information, email info@coastalrivers.org or visit www.coastalrivers.org

AUGUSTA — The Maine Principals’ Association Interscholastic Management Committee voted Tuesday, during a virtual meeting, to push the start of Maine’s fall high school sports season back.

Fall sports at the high school level across the state were scheduled to start Aug. 17. 

With the vote, however, the fall season will now begin Tuesday, Sept. 8. 

The delayed start to the season comes amid the COVID-19 pandemic with many other states across the nation making similar decisions. 

Schedules for the fall sports will be shortened and revised at a later date after member schools and the state’s eight athletic conferences have the opportunity to virtually meet and revise the schedules. 

Schools will be allowed to alter their schedules after the season begins, if needed, if opponents are impacted by the pandemic. 

Schools will not be penalized if they cannot field a team in a sport they normally would. The rule mandating teams dropping a sport remain out of competition for two seasons is being waived. 

Fall sports in Maine include football, soccer, golf, field hockey and cross country.

Summer conditioning programs are still permitted to continue through the previously established phases and following guidelines previously established by the MPA. 

 

It is free form and spontaneous. Tim and Tracy Johnson describes their long-distance bicycling tours that way. The couple traveled from their home in Denver to East Boothbay covering 4,240 miles in 59 days, April 27 - June 24, to visit with Tim’s parents, Allen and Sally Johnson, at Ocean Point.

Last summer, they set out on their first long-distance bike trip across northern Europe – 5,800 miles over three months. The couple had planned a bike trip through southern Europe for this summer, but COVID-19 put the kibosh on that adventure.

Colorado Gov. Jared Polis began re-opening the state April 26. The Johnsons set out April 27 on  steel-frame Kona Sutra heavy duty touring bikes.

The trip had five touch points or goals: Wisconsin with Tracy’s family, Mount Rushmore, swimming in all five of the Great Lakes, Niagara Falls, and reaching Ocean Point by the Fourth of July.

Tim said their favorite roads didn’t have lines on them. That would leave out conventional maps. Instead, they used Google Maps, clicking on the app’s bike icon for those roads less traveled. Sometimes gravel, sometimes dirt and sometimes taking them to places they didn’t know about – like the Erie Canal Tow Path.

Typical days for Tracy and Tim began at 8:30 a.m. and ended around 4:30 p.m. cycling for six of those hours and using the other two for finding food, breakfast, lunch; eating, washing up, and finding restrooms and a place to spend each night.

“We averaged 80 miles a day; sometimes 95 because we were looking for a place for the tent or a store for food,” Tracy said. “We would stop – always had a loaf of bread, peanut butter, apples, water and cookies. Getting food really determined how long the day was.”

Early in the trip, they were riding through towns that appeared empty, abandoned because there were no people outside. Everything was closed due to COVID-19. Many of the towns were small with populations of 300 or less.

“In the bigger towns with buildings on both sides, nothing was open but food or convenience stores,” said Tracy. “People had to travel longer distances for food or supplies like a mom in North Dakota who was driving an extra 15 miles to get to a store.”

The first half of the trip, campgrounds were closed. That meant thinking creatively about where to set up camp at a day’s end. Unusual spots included pavilions, baseball dugouts, a warehouse, church back dooryards, schools and under a store awning.

“The kindness of strangers is absolutely precious. It’s fun to do the biking and see stuff but the most fun we have is chatting with people,” said Tim.

A man in South Dakota offered them sleeping space in his warehouse – but not before he gave Tim and Tracy a tour of his cattle ranch where they got to bottle feed newborn calves.

“We’d come out of a grocery store or convenience store and people would ask us where we were going. They’d ask where we were staying,” Tracy said. “One person offered us his office space at the end of the driveway; someone else said they had a bedroom above their garage.”

After finding a place for the night, it was time to set up camp; everything was neatly packed in the four bags (think saddle bags) on their bikes – 70 pounds of gear:  a sleeping pad, the down winter coats that doubled as pillows. Staple foods always included peanut butter, potato chips, apples and water.Friday nights were happy hour with a six pack of beer and Triscuit crackers and cheese; there were also happy hours later in the trip, when the weather was warmer, if they traveled 80 miles in 80F-plus weather.

“Psychologically we know we have this big goal. The shine does dull some, but it never turns sour,” Tim said. “Tracy and I have done enough hard things to know we can work through those days and at the end of it we will feel good about having made it through.”

Challenging days were largely due to weather. In Fargo, North Dakota, 30 mph winds were blowing into their faces. There was pouring rain in the Detroit Lakes. And there was a snowstorm in Bismark in early May when it was a whopping 24F.

But, those challenges pale in memory (somewhat!) to the intimacy with nature experienced traveling by bicycle along those roads less traveled where there are bears, elk, moose, buffalo, mountain goats and hundreds of butterflies!

Most memorable journal posts include the 10-day stay in Tracy’s home state of Wisconsin for a birthday celebration; Mount Rushmore, the Niagara River, seeing the rapids, rainbows coming off the Falls; and Lusk, Wyoming. The couple celebrated both their birthdays.

The Johnsons went on another bike tour after quarantining for two weeks at Ocean Point. The tour was 815 miles around Maine, July 10-24 to visit friends and family. Along the way, they celebrated their 33rd wedding anniversary.

“It wouldn’t work if we weren’t evenly matched,” said Tracy about their long-distance bicycling trips. “If one of us lagged behind or something like that …”

“The trail boss pushes hard,” interjected Tim with a smile.

The Johnsons will return to Denver with their bikes in early August, by air.

 





Remember, back when you were a kid (and for some of us teenagers) at the beach on a hot summer day? The scent of salt laced with that of Coppertone in the air … the warmth of the sun on your face ... the cries of the gulls … transistor radios on blankets of blue, white and orange releasing Paul and Linda McCartney’s “Uncle Albert/Admiral Halsey,” Sly and the Family Stone singing about “Hot Fun in the Summertime,” the Stones singing about those “Honky Tonk Women” while Derek (aka Eric Clapton) & the Dominoes sang of the love of “Layla” to mingle with those olfactory delights …

Growing up in Connecticut, we went to Rocky Neck, Ocean Beach (complete with arcade and small amusement park), or Hammonasset Beach. All that white sand … the sound of the waves, feeling and watching seaweed whirl around your ankle led by the rhythm of the water …

The closest beaches to the Boothbay region are Popham, Reid State Park and Pemaquid. Everyone has their favorite.

Popham is a gorgeous beach with an island you can walk to at low tide in Phippsburg. A lot of people I know say this is their favorite – including my youngest daughter and her daughter. Right now, thanks to COVID-19, Popham is at reduced capacity – 200 cars of people are admitted to the park. That’s half of what it usually is. 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. No masks are required on the beach. Social distancing of six feet is requested. For more info on Popham, visit https://www.maine.gov/

But for me, it’s Reid State Park all the way, baby. I love the rocks for climbing, OK, walking on; the spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean are breathtaking, really. I think maybe it’s that bit of wildness vibe at Reid that appeals to me, too. There’s the lagoon kids really love… Sigh, I wish I was there right now! Did I mention the sand dunes? Uh-oh! I just had an image flash through my mind of Elvis Presley and Shelley Fabares in “Clam Bake” falling or sliding down a dune? Yikes! I don’t think I’ve thought of that … probably since I saw the movie on TV too many “bakes” ago. I think that’s a good thing too! Reid State Park is in Georgetown and super easy to get to. It’s also admitting only half of the usual number of cars – 375 – and is open 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Pemaquid Beach in Bristol, like Reid State Park, has facilities (shower stand and snack shack) that are open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; the beach is open all of the time. The beach is monitored by staff on an hourly basis to make sure there is enough room for social distancing. I call it the sweet little beach. Once I found a piece of driftwood resembling a small bird there. Oh, masks are required at the Nature Center, on the boardwalk and waiting in line at the snack shack … for complete details check out https://www.bristolmaine.org/parks-recreation/pemaquid-beach-park

Here in Boothbay, swimming hot spots include Grimes Cove, Ocean Point in East Boothbay. Scale the rocks on the left and, if it’s an active wave day, get wave showered! It’s a small beach area, to be sure. There’s a small float out in the cove and in July and August there are lots of people cooling off and having fun in our quite cool waters. But, that’s just what you need when we hit those 90F days.

Another favorite spot for locals and summer residents is Dog Fish Head Beach on Southport Island. Small island off the beach to climb on – and rocks, good-sized beach area, views of Hendricks Head Lighthouse, too. You’ll find lots of people cooling down from the summer heat here.

Over on the east side of the harbor is Barrett’s Park. This is an awesome spot just off Atlantic Avenue. Lots of tree-shaded spots to set up your blankets and what-not. It is always filled with friendly people and is dog-friendly too. Just remember to pick up their waste – and having them on a leash is a good idea: lots of little ones are quite wary of dogs, particularly of the mid to large variety.

The cove is great at Barrett’s. It’s the first area to your right beyond the pavilion. There are small areas on the right as you work your way down to the point at the park where there are small rock groupings and places to wade in the water. Down at the point, lots of folks dive in. The views are outstanding, too. But then, this is Midcoast Maine.

And, of course, no day at the beach would be complete without the banish gulls dancing, whether it’s performed while you are brandishing a towel or merely using your hands for that ineffective shooshing motion – those flying bandits are always ready, willing and able to descend upon your little blanket town and raid the coffers!

Yeah, I know. Some things are always funnier in retrospect.

For updates on Reid State Park and Popham beach, visit:  https://admin.boothbayregister.com/article/updated-water-access-restrictions-popham-beach-and-reid-state-parks/136921

 

 

 

 

 

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Jeff Spinney was considering all options after Alna’s planning board again rejected his Sheepscot River ramp replacement request Monday night. Two new votes went the same way as the June 29 one: Jim Amaral and Laurie Hiestand rejected the argument the ramp is grandfathered from the town’s 1993 shoreland rules and Tom Albee and Taylor McGraw voted it is grandfathered; then each voted the same on the ramp as an accessory to an approved dock.

In a phone interview later, Spinney said he was not surprised. “I’m not too happy that the Alna planning board can’t seem to fathom what’s a proper reading of the ordinance and what’s not.”

A consultant, former Lincoln County planner Bob Faunce, predicted during the meeting, the outcome, whatever it was, would be appealed. And in the interview, Spinney said he was not sure he would continue with his recent, separate request to do earthwork. “I don’t know what’s going to happen right now with that. I’m looking at every option,” including a possible zoning board appeal of the votes on the first proposal.

After hearing from residents Mike Trask and Toby Stockford about their and others’ years of using the ramp, Albee and McGraw were satisfied the ramp is grandfathered. Amaral and Hiestand were unsure the ramp was getting maintained. Responding to board questions, Trask said he thought people applied dirt as needed to get in and out.

Board members noted a past owner of the property reported the ramp was not maintained. “The conflicting information is what’s making this so hard for us,” Hiestand said.

AUGUSTA — The Maine Department of Economic and Community Development has announced up to 200 people are now allowed to gather for seated outdoor spectator events such as sports or concerts under a set of newly established guidelines. 

Venues may divide seating into separate areas with up to 50 people each if:

There is at least 14 feet of separation between sections, with physical barriers to prevent intermingling between sections

There is enough space for six feet of separation between household groups within each section

Household groups are considered up to 10 people

Each section has access to separate restrooms, concessions, or other offered services, to prevent intermingling

Sections have independent entrances and exits, or entrance and exit times are staggered so there is no overlap between sections

There are no more than four separate seating sections

AUGUSTA — The Maine Principals’ Association has announced its plans for the shortened fall sports seasons. 

The maximum number of regular season games for soccer and field hockey have been reduced to 10 games, from an original slate of 14. There is no minimum amount of games a team most complete this season. 

Schools with football programs will have seven weeks to complete a maximum of six regular season games. Football programs traditionally play an eight game slate. 

The cross country and golf maximum number of contests have not been revised. 

The MPA is urging its member schools to adopt schedules with an emphasis on regional scheduling to reduce the amount of travel across the state. 

Fall sports at the high school level across the state were scheduled to start Aug. 17, though the MPA Interscholastic Management Committee voted earlier this month to push the start of Maine’s fall high school sports season back.

With the vote, the fall season will now begin Tuesday, Sept. 8 with preseason contests. The regular season will start Friday, Sept. 18. 

The delayed start to the season comes amid the COVID-19 pandemic with many other states across the nation making similar decisions.

Schools will be allowed to alter their schedules after the season begins, if needed, if opponents are impacted by the pandemic.

Volunteers of Maine Fishing Guides stopped by Camp Knickerbocker on Thursday, June 30 to teach Y campers different fishing related skills. Maine Fishing Guide is a service based out of Skowhegan, Maine, and is a relatively new guide service that wants to make sure to spend time with the youth in Maine to educate them on what the Maine outdoors has to offer.

The day at camp started by breaking the campers into groups that each focused on a different subject, led by one of the volunteer guides. Skills included how to tie their own flies, how to cast a fly rod, and learned an array of different spin cast fishing techniques. The last block of the day, all of the participating campers and volunteers hopped into the canoes on the water, giving them an opportunity to apply what they had learned earlier in the day, ask questions to the guides, and catch fish!

The MFG team had a great day teaching the campers all about fishing, and they hope to come back during the 2021 camp season to do it all again! MFG offers a variety of different fishing trips, Casting lessons, and outdoor adventures. They can be found on Facebook at @mainefishingguides

The Boothbay Region and Central Lincoln County Y’s are excited to have volunteers to create new and exciting opportunities for the Lincoln County community through Camp Knickerbocker. This summer found Camp Knickerbocker trying new programs and activities due to COVID-19, as well as lower enrollment numbers, but it has not reduced the fun for campers and staff alike! For many families, Camp Knickerbocker has been the shining light of their summer. One parent had this to say:

“Camp Knickerbocker has given my kids the classic summer camp memories they will look back on with joy when they are older. I feel good knowing that they are in a safe, healthy, structured environment that is also fun and active that meets their needs for social development and physical activity. What really makes any camp is the staff, and Camp K manages year after year to find responsible, mature, and fun staff that the kids like, and who can keep up with them!”

The Y is excited and very fortunate to have been able to offer camp this season. For the rest of the season we are running at full capacity, so if you would like to reserve a spot on our waiting list, please connect with Sarah Brewer at campregistrar@brymca.org







AUGUSTA –Earlier this week, in response to the fatal shark attack near Bailey Island, water activity restrictions took effect at Maine's coastal State Parks with beaches. Today, July 31, the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry's Bureau of Parks and Lands (BPL) is limiting water access at the following beaches:

Popham Beach State Park and Reid State Park restricted to waist-deep water access (the lagoon at Reid State Park remains open).

Ferry Beach State Park and Crescent Beach State Park remain restricted to waist-deep water access.

All other coastal Maine State Parks are allowing regular water activity. to waist-depth.

The decision to increase water activity depth from ankle- and knee-deep at Popham Beach and Reid State Parks comes after consultation with the Maine Marine Patrol. State Park Rangers and lifeguards will continue to actively monitor for sharks and have the authority to clear the water should any concerns arise.

On Wednesday, July 29, Popham Beach State Park lifeguards alerted the Department of Marine Resources (DMR) to a possible shark sighting. Maine Marine Patrol searched the area and did not see any sharks but spotted an ocean sunfish and seals feeding on fish. Maine Marine Patrol has fielded reported shark sightings following Monday’s incident and there are no confirmed white shark sightings. 

BPL's current plan, assuming there is no confirmed shark activity in the vicinity of the Parks, is to return to regular swimming at all four Parks on Monday, Aug. 3. Daily beach condition reports are posted to social media and online.

The 2020 high school fall athletic season will undoubtedly be unlike any other. The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in cancelling the spring sports season and, beginning Sept. 8, Maine’s fall sports teams will begin a shortened pre-season leading up to regular season games on Sept. 18. It will be the state’s first high school sports season in the coronavirus era. The fall season begins between Phases 3 and 4 of Gov. Janet Mills plans’ to reopen Maine. Phase 3 runs from Aug. 3 to Aug. 23 with teams allowed to begin conditioning drills. Phase 4 runs from Aug. 24 to Sept. 7 with teams continuing with more advanced conditioning drills leading up to a shortened pre-season beginning Sept. 8.

When Maine’s football, soccer and field hockey teams eventually begin competition, they will do so under safety precautions mandated by Maine Principals Association. The changes include a shortened regular season and expanded postseason tournament. Fourteen game schedules for field hockey and soccer are reduced to 10. Football schedules will be reduced from eight games to six. Also, each postseason tournament will be open, allowing all teams to compete for a state championship. There are no changes to golf and cross country season schedules.

Boothbay field hockey coach Donna Jordan believes other safety precautions may be implemented prior to the first game. “Face masks will be optional for participants, but on the sideline coaches will wear masks as well as everybody else on the sidelines. The pregame conference with officials will be limited to one player and one coach per team. And there won’t be any post-game handshakes,” she said.

For the 2020 season, there will be no conference play. The MPA is imposing regional schedules to reduce travel to prevent spreading COVID-19. Athletic directors are working out the reduced schedules and moving from conference play to regional opponents. One proposal has fall sports teams placed in “pods” to fill out a regular season schedule. “There is nothing official, but our schedule may look like Lincoln Academy, Morse, Mount Ararat, Lisbon and some KVAC (Kennebec Valley Athletic Conference) teams. It certainly helps with travel and I’m glad there is going to be a season,” Jordan said.

Regionalization in football is more difficult. The state’s football programs are already divided between eight-man and 11-man football. Prior to the season, one Boothbay football opponent already opted out of the fall season. Camden Hills plays in the large school eight-man football division and will not field a team this season due to the pandemic. So adjusting the state’s eight-man football schedules may be an easier task for athletic directors.

This is Boothbay football coach Ed Crocker’s fourth season. He expects school officials will allow athletes to return to action Aug. 10. He plans on starting with 45-minute conditioning drills three times a week during the lead-up to pre-season. “Social distancing is definitely the most challenging part of coaching under the new guidelines,” he said. “From a coaching standpoint, it means more individual drills instead of the traditional 1V1 (one versus one) drills.”

Crocker expects 28 players to report for football this month. He described it as the “perfect number” for eight-man football. “We’re going to have a lot of competition for linemen positions which is something we’ve worked toward for several seasons. So I’m excited about getting started,” Crocker said. 

Jordan has more of a challenge entering her seventh year as Seahawk coach in filling out a roster. She has nine players returning and needs several more players to field all 11 field positions. Boothbay Region Elementary School’s field hockey had 10 eighth graders last fall. Jordan is hoping a large number of those players will show up this month to play. “We might end up with a few upperclassmen playing so right now we have to wait and see how many actually participate,” she said.

 

Saturday, July 25 was seamless, air-warm, water- flat, destination - perfect. It was a pretty cruise from any port. Several boats chose to cruise through the Thread of Life then around Witch Island to the protected cove with available moorings. Organizer Pete Yesmentes and Captain Eleanor, aboard their 32’ lobster yacht Eleanor Yes, chose the shortest route from their lovely home in Little River, a short ride up the Damariscotta River to South Bristol. Pete came through the South Bristol bridge and claimed the first available mooring which was just across the gut from Ed and Melanie Hodgdon’s home mooring where they keep their 34’ Catalina sloop Windependence. V/C Ron and Lori Richardson, aboard Wildflower, a 35’ Beneteau sailing yacht, tied alongside Windependence. Both captains launched their respective dinghies to visit the expanding rafts.

Soon there were several DEYC vessels rafted on 2 separate moorings. P/C Sandy and Karen Young aboard Oceana provided the anchor for one raft. Joining Oceana was Eleanor Yes, Moor Mularky with Dana and Jane Mulholland and P/C Susan and Fleet Captain Brent Pope; Mi Tyme, a 22’ Mako CC with Captain Jay Reynolds and Deb Bowker, and Old School, a 20’ Whaler captained by Jim. Jim’s sister Barb and husband Mac Gray (long time DEYC members) were aboard. Mel and Ed tied up for a chat before saying hi to the folks in the other raft.

The second raft was anchored by Sea Knight, a 30’ Beneteau swift trawler captained by Ed and Marlene Lawton. Rick and Mary Pollak aboard About Time, a 22’ center console was second. P/C Bill and Anne George in their run-about and P/C Captain Winn and Inge Russell aboard Schatz, cruised in and V/C Ron and Lori Richardson dinghied in.

Sharing snacks and enjoying beverages was a safe way to enjoy being on the water with wonderful friends. A good time was had by all!!

The next Day-Tripper destination is Love Cove in Southport on Aug. 29.

 

 

“This is the part where the train said, ‘I thought I could, I thought I could,” Maynard, Massachusetts’ John McNamara said in a narrow gauge train in Alna Friday night after it took public riders down from Top of the Mountain and to the bridge at Trout Brook for the first time since Wiscasset, Waterville & Farmington Railway last did in 1933. Friday’s face-masked riders went further on the rails than the public has gone in the 31-year-old WW&F Railway Museum’s history.

Conductor Ed Lecuyer of Manchester, New Hampshire told riders, to cheers, “You guys rode history tonight!” They were also the first riders in the Cross Road nonprofit’s pandemic-delayed season.

Sonny and Peggy Brannon of Livingston, Texas were glad the museum was open; nearly everything else they wanted to do on their Maine trip was canceled or shut down. Pompton Plains, New Jersey’s Tom Rose, there with wife Marj, said, “It’s wonderful they were able to open.”

Lecuyer told Wiscasset Newspaper before the ride, he and fellow volunteers were excited to give people a chance to go back in time and “forget this year, for just a moment.”

The nearly two-hour, sunny early evening trip included pie at Alna Center. Wiscasset’s Liz Palmer manned the table full of blueberry, mixed berry, pecan and other slices she said were all from Creamed in Wiscasset. 

“Very good,” Westport Island’s Mireille Martel said of the raspberry. Husband Warren had the pecan.

As riders sat or stood eating at social distances on the lawn, museum member Kenneth Steeves of Kensington, New Hampshire stood piloting a drone hundreds of feet overhead. As the device took video, a Laconia, New Hampshire-built freight car sat near lawn’s edge. Museum member Stewart Rhine said the car dated to about 1900.

The trains’ lighter schedule, with rides every other Saturday, stems from having fewer volunteers this year due to COVID-19, spokesman Stephen Piwowarski said earlier Friday. Some live out of state, and some are older and some have health issues, he noted. Member donations in an internal fund drive helped with the lost ticket sales from the late start and the cut to 40 riders a trip for social distancing; and the rides have higher prices due to their added features including a talk, a concert and a belated egg hunt. 

Open cars and cars with their windows open are helping keep the experience as outdoors as possible, Piwowarski said. For the museum’s precautions and upcoming dates, visit wwfry.org

 

 

 

In 1983 the relatively young non-profit, Boothbay Region Land Trust, received a donation of land from Nathaniel Porter, which would become Porter Preserve, the organization’s first public nature preserve. At the time BRLT was an entirely volunteer run organization. A committed board of directors led by founding member and president, Lois Barge, oversaw operations. Eventually Barge became BRLT’s first Executive Director, though her position remained voluntary.

Volunteerism and community participation were essential to BRLT’s early success. Volunteers cleared and built the shoreline trail at Porter, and since that time have supported trail maintenance as well as improvements including the rebuilding of Roberts Wharf and the addition of the memorial grove. Without sustained volunteer engagement, BRLT’s nature preserves, including Porter, would struggle to provide the recreational trails and public access that have been central to the land trust’s work over the past 40 years.

Today Porter Preserve continues to benefit greatly from dedicated volunteers. Paul and Louise Cowan moved to Barters Island eleven years ago from Michigan, and the preserve was a major draw. They found themselves at Porter nearly every day, where they enjoyed walking their dog, Brody. Their regular visits to Porter quickly encouraged them to become volunteers with BRLT. “We were there all of the time,” Paul notes, “we figured that we could do something to help.”

As close neighbors to the preserve, the Cowans made ideal Preserve Stewards at Porter--a group of volunteers who act as the land trust’s eyes and ears on the trails. The Cowans provide routine maintenance of the trails at Porter and upkeep of the kiosk. While Paul clears minor trail blockers, such as branches or small trees, Louise can be seen with her hedge clippers trimming the trail throughout the growing season. “Anything that touches me on the trail gets trimmed back,” she notes.

Early on the Cowans made an effort to haul out trash that had been left at the preserve. “We quickly noticed that after our initial clean-ups, people became more respectful of the preserve,” says Paul.” They could see how nice and pristine it was, and wanted to keep it that way. Little efforts can go a long way in changing people’s perspective and habits. “We frequently meet visitors who are amazed at what a nice place Porter Preserve is,” notes Paul. He and Louise feel great satisfaction in witnessing the enjoyment and appreciation of neighbors and visitors to Porter.

While Paul and Louise provide year-round support for the daily upkeep at Porter, Cyrus Lauriat is BRLT’s go-to volunteer for larger maintenance issues and improvements at Porter Preserve. Cyrus grew up in Southwest Harbor, where, he recalls, “The ocean was my backyard.” Having spent his life at sea as a commercial fisherman, shipbuilder, and engineer on everything from factory trawlers, to ferries, to tugboats and oil barges, Cyrus has a great love for the sea. “I worked at sea for forty-two and a half years,” he notes. “I calculated that my days at sea over that time amount to twenty-five or more full years on the water.” While his work brought him to every corner of the globe, Cyrus always associated Maine with home. In 1975 Cyrus first moved to Boothbay. It was here that he purchased his home, started his family, and spent more than a decade fishing the waters, working in shipyards, and building his life. Though work opportunities eventually drew him to other regions throughout the world including Alaska, Russia, Iceland, and many others besides, when he finally retired from work at sea, Boothbay was where Cyrus returned.

Cyrus has long been a BRLT volunteer and more recently has become engaged as a member of BRLT’s Stewardship Committee, providing guidance on matters of preserve management. Working at sea often demanded creative problem solving, and Cyrus prides himself on his ingenuity and ability to find a fix no matter the challenge. “Having run my own boats, every dime I spent came out of my pocket,” he explains. “I had to be able to find a way to keep my boat moving because any day I couldn’t get out on the water was money lost.” Cyrus brings this same creative problem solving to his volunteerism. He is well known for his ability to see a need and find a solution. Last year he worked to rebuild the float at Roberts Wharf. He has also installed countless bridges across the preserves, including a beautiful new bridge at Porter, and has led the way in designing and installing several sets of stairs at Porter this summer in an effort to make the shore more accessible to visitors. Cyrus also worked with volunteer Alan Bellows to handcraft a number of new benches that have recently been installed at Porter. One hallmark of Cyrus’ work is his commitment to repurposing materials as much as possible. New benches were crafted from blowdowns, bridge lumber has often been repurposed from usable old bridging or other lumber that has been salvaged. Cyrus sees it not only as cost saving, but also as sensible stewardship of the environment.

“Making places like Porter more accessible to people is rewarding,” Cyrus notes. “We’ve got a lot of beautiful pieces of property in the region that people come to see. Simple things like adding steps or a bridge can help open these places to so many people.” Cyrus recounts a recent workday at Porter, “As I was coming back from checking on heights at the [newly installed] 'Well Cove' stairs, an older couple was descending the stairs by the oak at the end of the boardwalk and continued on down the next set of steps directly to the shore. They certainly wouldn’t have gotten to the shore [without the steps], and with the ledges being wet and slippery them might have had a complicated time getting down over the ledge by the oak. Witnessing that one moment is worth more than any dollar amount I could ever be paid!”

These community volunteers represent just three of the more than one hundred individuals who volunteer with BRLT every year. Volunteers have always been essential partners in the land trust’s public service mission and their engagement and commitment over the years exemplify the value of BRLT’s lands for the community. Porter Preserve and the adjacent Roberts Wharf have always been locations where conservation and community have come together. At a moment in time when the coast of Maine was becoming increasingly privatized, Porter represented BRLT’s first effort to ensure public access to the shores of our region, and to this day, it holds a special place in the hearts and minds of a community that has long recognized the benefits of this access.

In recognition of Boothbay Region Land Trust’s 40th anniversary, the land trust is releasing a series of four short films with companion articles highlighting the history, features, and environmental significance of some of its most iconic nature preserves. This article is the second in the series. To view the companion film featuring Porter Preserve and Roberts Wharf, as well as the other featured films and articles in this series, visit bbrlt.org/events-news/video



The Boothbay Region YMCA 27th annual Rowgatta on Barters Island Aug. 8 got blue skies and light winds. Twenty-six single kayaks, five double kayaks and two paddle boards made the nine-mile trip around the island in under three hours. The event raises funds for the Y’s second grade learn-to-swim program.

BRYMCA Healthy Living Coordinator and Rowgatta organizer Abby Jones has been heading the event for seven years. She said it could not have been more perfect for these times since participants are naturally distanced. All it took was a little planning around registration to make sure the event was totally safe. Kayakers and paddlers wore masks as they registered, socialized and launched their crafts one at a time for social distance.

“We're so lucky. It's the event of the season, that's what I've been saying. So many other things were postponed or canceled due to COVID-19, but we're here!”

The Knickerkane Bridge venue and Barters Island course are relatively new as the first 25 years were on Southport Island launching from Newagen, said Jones. “We moved to Barters Island because it's a little shorter, so we feel it's a little bit safer and a little more inviting to the average paddler.”

This year had a challenge due to the extreme low tide, forcing most paddlers to launch on the north side of the bridge rather than the boat launch on the south side. Volunteer Abbie Shaw, a self-described “Y person,” has been participating in the organizing of the event for three years. “We’ve had days where it's high tide, we've had days where it's low tide. Today it's a little slick getting in, but the weather couldn't be nicer and the wind is low, so they should have a good paddle. And this is a great cause.”

Jones thanked over 20 volunteers including Tidal Transit which provided kayak rentals and transit at a discount. Said Jones, “Special thanks to Robert Jordan, Paul and Louis Cowan, Bonnie Reed and the entire BRYMCA family who really helped pull this together … It's such a small, friendly, perfect, wonderful event. Everyone was very appreciative to have (it).”

The results: Dave Grody, first, 1:25:22; Dan Benson, second, 1:26:15; Scott Yeomans, third, 1:35:50; Tag Curwen, fourth, 1:41:00; Eric and Louise Ranshau (double), fifth, 1:47:15; Matt Fenwick, sixth, 1:48:02; Jim Hutzelman, seventh, 1:49:44; Don Celler, eighth, 1:49:55; Robert Cotier, ninth, 1:51:21; Luke and Samantha Glenn (double), 10th, 1:53:48; Rick Taylor and Bonnie Haeger (double), 11th, 1:56:21; Janelle Munson-McGee and Jacob, 12th, 1:57:15; Dr. Aqui Alamo, 13th, 1:58:59; Jon Bigelow, 14th, 1:59:28; Jacob Stonecipher, 15th, 2:07:15; Steve Berger, 16th, 2:07:15; Kim Brauer and Kirsten Blycher tied for 17th in 2:11:29; Rodd Langenhagen (paddle board), 19th, 2:11:45; Roberta Lloyd, 20th, 2:16:27; Jim Newton and John Herger tied for 21st in 2:19:04; Alison Curwen, 23rd, 2:25:51; Jacquie Moen, 24th, 2:25:52; Maria Coppola, 25th. 2:25:53; Deb Schaefer, 26th, 2:32:36; Doug and Sharon Goldhirsch tied for 27th in 2:45:48; Joan and Patricia McCabe (double), 29th, 2:47:12; Michael Chambers (paddle board) and Ryan Chambers (kayak) tied for 30th in 2:53:04; Kathy Prall, 32nd, 2:59:33; and John Prall, 33rd, 2:59:48.

Harbor Theater is bringing you a three-day outdoor movie extravaganza with a giant pop-up screen, live music, food and drink (including popcorn and candy), and films for all ages on Thursday, Aug. 27, Friday, Aug. 28 and Saturday, Aug. 29; gates open at 6:30 p.m. All three events will be free and open to the public; first come, first served. This is our way to thank the community for its patience and support while the theater is closed due to COVID-19.

Bring your car, your boat, your kids or just yourselves, and enjoy three days of movies under the stars. The 17’ x 30’ pop-up screen with enhanced sound will take you back to the days of Drive-Ins, and we’ve picked three 1980s movies to fit the mood: “Dirty Dancing,” E.T. the Extraterrestrial,” and “Indiana Jones: Raiders of the Lost Ark.”

The series starts off on Thursday, Aug. 27 with a “Boat-In” at Linekin Bay Resort and the 1987 hit “Dirty Dancing.” How can anyone forget “Baby,” the teenage daughter of guests at a summer resort (not unlike Linekin Bay Resort) who falls for a smooth floor show dancer doing The Dirty Boogie?

Come by boat, grab a mooring, anchor offshore, or tie up to the dock. Live music starts at 6:30 p.m. with food and drink available to purchase. The movie starts at dusk (around 7:30 p.m.). This is a boats-only event. You can bring as many people as will fit in your boat, but you must still practice social distancing and stay at least six feet away from any other boat. First come, first served.

Second up, on Friday, Aug. 28, is “E.T. the Extraterrestrial” (1982) at Newagen Seaside Inn. E.T. is that ‘squashy little guy,’ the least threatening alien to ever hit a movie screen, who is found and hidden by a young boy determined to find a way to send him home. A classic for kids and a remarkable portrait of childhood for adults.

At Newagen Seaside Inn it will be lawn seating only on designated squares; come early at 6:30 p.m. to find your place. Live music, food and drink will entertain you until the movie starts at dusk (around 7:30 p.m.). First come, first served; 100-person State mandated limit. Social -distancing; masks required until seated.

The last film in the series is the 1981 “Indiana Jones: Raiders of the Lost Ark.” This will be shown at Sheepscot Harbour Village Resort in Edgecomb; Drive-In only with a 50-car limit. Again, gates open at 6:30 p.m., live music, food and drink available to purchase, and the show starts at dusk. (7:30 p.m. or so).

“Raiders of the Lost Ark” is the first of the Indiana Jones films, starring Harrison Ford as a soft-spoken archaeologist who lands in the Peruvian jungle in 1936 and runs into golden idols, boulders and snakes, always seeming on the verge of certain death. Later he returns in a race to discover the long-lost Ark of the Covenant, with German Nazis close on his heels. Be prepared for a night of adventure.

All films are free, food and drink will be available to purchase, and live music will entertain you while you settle in for the movie at dusk. First come, first served at all venues.

Donations will be accepted for local charities at each location.

Thanks to Scott Larson for all his arrangements and offering Midcoast Hospitality Group venues for these events.

For more information, call Newagen Inn at 633 –5242, Linekin Bay Resort at 633-2494 and Sheepscot Harbour Village Resort at 579-1800.

 

 

 

 

We are saddened to announce that the 16th annual running of the Westport Island Shore Run, “Maine’s Best Little 10K Road Race” previously scheduled for Aug. 16, has been cancelled as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. We have been closely monitoring the evolving COVID-19 situation, and our concern for the health and safety of our many runners, walkers and friends has been our top priority.  

While the situation in Maine has been improving over the past several weeks, many of our runners have traditionally also come from outside Maine. We have decided that, in an abundance of caution and for the safety and well-being of everyone, including runners, walkers, family and friends, we must cancel this year's race.    

Our hearts and thoughts go out to those affected by this unprecedented challenge and we appreciate all of the health care workers and others in local communities, the town of Westport Island, the State of Maine and elsewhere in the nation and world who are on the front line working to contain the virus and help those afflicted.

The next Westport Island Shore Run 10K Road Race is Sunday, Aug. 15, 2021! Registration will open April 1, 2021 at www.westportisland.org

Join us in running or walking the course in support of the Westport Island Volunteer Firefighters.  

Thanks for your support – and keep running!

 

The Boothbay Charities Classic, a fundraising event for Special Olympics Maine for the past 29 years, will not be held this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

However, in a letter being sent to past supporters and participants, the BCC committee explains that Special Olympics Maine (SOME) still needs financial support to conduct its programs and that donations will be welcomed. Over the past few years, the Classic, which includes a lobster bake, a sports auction and a golf tournament, has raised over $50,000 for SOME.

With the onset of the pandemic in March, Special Olympics International suspended all activities, which also included fundraising events.

To keep Maine’s 5,000 children and adults with intellectual disabilities engaged, with no activities or sports being held, the SOME staff started and continue offering virtual training and virtual social and fun events, including weekly “Warrior” workouts. They are also working with their athletes on nutrition and healthy living tips, cooking classes, COVID-19 precautions and stress reduction. To see what SOME is doing for the children and adults, visit its Facebook page, Special Olympics Maine.

“We are reaching out to you in hopes that you might still be willing to contribute in some way, and help Special Olympics Maine get their athletes back on the playing fields, the courts, the tracks, in the pools, and on the courses, as soon as possible,” writes the BCC committee in its appeal letter.

Donations can be sent to Brenda Blackman or Tony Krason at P.O. Box 207, Boothbay, ME 04537.

Besides Blackman and Krason, the committee also includes Leon Blackman, Russ Ham, Krystal Blackman, April and Andy Pinkham, Mark and Laurie Bailey, and Steve and Laura Francis.

Outdoor videographers / storytellers interested in submitting a work in the Broke and Stoked contest - read on, its not too late to submit for 2020!

Submissions must be an outdoor video no longer than 3:59 minutes made by a Maine resident(s) who have not won the award more than once before. All videos must have a title screen and end credits. If music is used, it must be appropriately credited and used with permission. No exceptions.  If you need help finding license-free music, please email us or just google “royalty-free music”).

Submitting info: 
A. upload your video to VIMEO or DropBox
B. Email your VIMEO or DropBox link to: moff@maineoutdoorfilmfestival.com before 11:59 p.m. on Sept. 10, 2020.
C. Include your name, hometown, mailing address (for prize pack) and a 16 x 9 aspect ratio .jpg or .png “thumbnail” of your film.

Finalists:
A. The MOFF jury will announce its favorite 10 films (“the finalists”) in mid September 2020.
B. All 10 finalists will be part of a premiere screening event in mid-September.
C. Each finalist will receive one ticket to the screening and also win a prize pack with prizes from FlowfoldL.L. BeanSugarloafThree Rivers WhitewaterCOAST PortlandAmerican RootsPakPodZootilityCarrabassett CoffeeBar MittsCoalaTreeEquinox Climbing ServiceGrandyOatsBixby & Co and more (prize packs subject to change based on sponsor inventory)

AWARDING THE $1,000 IN PRIZE MONEY!

A. The Jury Award of $500 will be awarded at the Broke and Stoked premiere at the special MOFF premiere event in mid-September.
B. On the day after the premiere event, all 10 of the finalist films will be uploaded and available to watch at BROKEANDSTOKED.com.
C. There will be a 2-week online voting period during which an online voting form will accept one vote per email address for the Audience Award Grand Prize. The film with the most votes wins the audience award of $500.
D. One film can win both prizes.
E.. By submitting you also agree to all of the Terms and Conditions on the MOFF submissions page.

Boxing and Fitness for Parkinson’s Disease is a unique exercise program based on training used by boxing pros and adapted to people with Parkinson’s Disease. The program involves regular exercise, such as stretching, walking, strength training, balancing and non-contact boxing led by experienced trainers/coaches. Boxing for Parkinson’s serves both men and women of all ages and levels of ability.

The Parkinson’s Disease Foundation estimates there are more than 1 million people in the United States diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, with more than 60,000 people being diagnosed each year.

Research suggests exercise can slow the progression of, or even reverse, Parkinson’s symptoms. Studies show that people with Parkinson’s who exercised regularly have a smaller decline in mobility and quality of life. If you have Parkinson’s and you think you may benefit from an exercise program, please consider our Y’s program.

The Boothbay Y has offered this program (and previously a similar program called “Rock Steady”) free for members for several years. Currently, our program can safely “spread out for social distancing” in the large Y gymnasium. Some members who bring their own boxing gloves can work with boxing bags and speed bags, while others in the class choose not to box and will exercise in other ways.

One of the coaches, Abby Jones, our Y Healthy Living coordinator, has seen firsthand the significant progress this program can make for people. “I’m continually impressed with the determination and perseverance of our group! Not only do participants exercise to their own ability, we also form a real sense of camaraderie and support for each other. We tell jokes, move to music, exchange recipes and the latest medical news, as well! Recently we lost one of our dear regular team members, David Dudley, whom we miss terribly. His strength and kindness are still with us in every workout, each and every day.”

This class is offered Tuesdays and Thursdays at 10:30 a.m. If you, or anyone you know is interested, please contact Abby at the Boothbay Region YMCA (ajones@brymca or 207-633-2855).

Middle schoolers may be returning to the classroom this fall, but it doesn’t look like athletes will compete in Busline League competition. Many league schools are opting for intramural programs including Boothbay Region Elementary and Wiscasset Middle schools. Athletic Director Warren Cossette reports Wiscasset middle school athletes will participate in skill development four days per week. “We will be trying to use this opportunity to reach as many students as possible and develop much needed sport-specific skills, and physical activities,” Cossette said. 

In Boothbay Harbor, school officials are working on an in-house, intramural program. “Many, if not all, of the Busline League schools are doing the same thing. I am currently working on the parameters that I will be asking the fall sports coaches to follow when scheduling their specific sport,” Athletic Director Dennis Dacus said. 

Both athletic directors will report program details once they become available. 

Last spring, Maine schools cancelled their sports season due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Earlier this month, Maine Principals Association released guidelines for the first high school sports season in the COVID-19 era. The high school sports season began between phases 3 and 4 of Gov. Janet Mills’ plan to reopen the state. Phase 3 runs from Aug. 3 to Aug. 23 with teams allowed to begin conditioning drills. Phase 4 runs from Aug. 24 to Sept. 7 with teams continuing with more advanced conditioning drills leading up to a shortened pre-season beginning Sept. 8.

When Maine’s high school football, soccer and field hockey teams eventually begin competition, they will do so under safety precautions mandated by Maine Principals Association. The changes include a shortened regular season and expanded postseason tournament. Fourteen-game schedules for field hockey and soccer are reduced to 10. Football schedules will be reduced from eight games to six. Also, each postseason tournament will be open, allowing all teams to compete for a state championship. There are no changes to golf and cross country season schedules.

Regular season contests are slated for a Sept. 18 start.

We all know that time spent in nature can have a powerful impact on our mood, our stress levels, and our sense of well-being. Most of us feel reinvigorated by spending even a short amount of time outside, breathing fresh air, feeling sunlight on our skin, or smelling the salty sea air. The benefits of spending time in nature are the basis of forest bathing, the practice of taking in the forest atmosphere through one’s senses. During the month of August, Boothbay Region Land Trust (BRLT) invites visitors to enjoy a self-guided forest bathing walk at Heandricks Head Hiking Trail.

Hidden just a few steps away from the crowds of beachgoers at Hendricks Head Beach on Southport Island is Hendricks Head Hiking Trail, a quiet forest lush with mosses and lichens. This preserve is the perfect place to find solitude and soak up the health boosting effects of the outdoors. Guests to this preserve will encounter a series of written invitations spaced along the trail which offer gentle opportunities to build sensory awareness while exploring natural surroundings.

Forest bathing is a research-based practice that supports healing and wellness through immersion in natural environments. Studies have demonstrated a wide array of health benefits from this practice, especially for the cardiovascular and immune systems, as well as in stabilizing and improving mood and cognition. Forest bathing walks are designed to cultivate nature connections and often offer transformational impacts for participants. Forest bathing is an open-ended practice with a defined sequence of events that provide structure to the experience, while still embracing opportunities for creativity and serendipity that are offered by the forest and individual inspiration.

During this time of social distancing, forest bathing offers great strategies to improve both mental and physical wellness. Designed by certified forest therapy guide and BRLT Environmental Educator, Tracey Hall, the leisurely walk at Hendricks Head Trail covers less than a mile of moderate terrain, and is estimated to take 1 hour to complete. Parking is available a short distance down the road at the Town of Southport’s Hendricks Head Beach and the self-guided walk is available seven days per week from sunrise to sunset. For more information on BRLT and directions to Hendricks Head Preserve visit bbrlt.org