Molly Ockett Day Medallion Hunt news from the Bethel Area Business Association:

Following the publication of Clue #3, the medallion has officially been found! We’ll announce our winner and present the prize during Molly Ockett Day on August 8, so be sure to stop by and celebrate with us!

But the fun isn’t over yet—we’ll continue sharing the remaining clues so everyone can keep playing along just for fun. Think you’ve solved it? Head out on the hunt, snap a photo at the spot you think is correct, and send it to us; we’ll let you know if you found the right location!

Thank you to everyone who has participated so far, and we can’t wait to see you all on August 8!

Andover News

Diana Nadeau

The next artist performing in the Andover Summer Concert series this Friday the 24th is none other than our own Pete Coolidge! It finally looks like it will be a beautiful night to enjoy some wonderful music on the Andover Common.

Concerts start at 6 pm, so gather up your chairs, bring along the family and come on up for an evening of entertainment. All concerts are free but donations are gladly accepted. Arrive even earlier and savor a nice meal at Mills Market or a delectable ice cream at Kate’s Kones.

Andover Olde Home Days is almost upon us. It is always such a fun day with lots to do. The Andover Service Circle needs some help this year for AOHD August 1st. They are looking for volunteers to help staff tables and to help with the 50/50 raffle ticket table and the ticket auction table. This is a great opportunity for high school students looking to earn community service hours while giving back to the community. Even if you can only help for part of the day, it would be greatly appreciated. Interested? Send their page a message on Facebook or contact group president, Andrea, at 207-392-1020.

The last meeting for the AOHD Committee will be at the Town Hall Monday, July 27, at 6 pm. Anyone can attend and I’m sure they would welcome any extra hands that would like to volunteer for the big day.

A reminder that the Photography Contest drop-off times are next Wednesday the 29th from 12-3, Thursday the 30th from 3-6, and Friday the 31st from 10-12. Photos can be dropped off downstairs at the Andover Town Hall. Thanks Chad!

The Andover Snow Valley Sno-goers has a great opportunity for one lucky person to experience a weekend at one of the Lone Mountain Campground’s A-frame cabins. The campground generously donated this to help support the snowmobile club. This is yet another reason why I love my little town, everyone pitches in to help one another. Tickets are $10 and the drawing will take place in September. Please visit the club’s booth this AOHD to purchase your ticket. All proceeds benefit the Andover Snow Valley Sno-goers. I’ll certainly be buying mine...those cabins are gorgeous!

This Saturday the campground will be having a visit from Dave’s Backyard BBQ from 2-7. They will also be at AOHD Friday night, July 31st, from 3-9 and all day Saturday August 1st. The menu looks amazing.

Reminder that there will be a special election to be held on August 10th from 2-6 pm at the Andover Town Hall to fill the empty selectman’s seat. Please come out and vote in this important election. Our town government is very vital for our town; the effort and time that is put in by our selectboard and town officials should not be overlooked.

If you are looking for some delicious Maine blueberries, you are in luck! Burke Hill Farms from Cherryfield, Maine will be delivering in our area on Wednesday, July 29. They will be at the Gem Theater parking lot in Bethel at 2:30 and at the Tractor Supply parking lot in Rumford at 3:05. They are organic wild Maine blueberries sold in 5 pound boxes, individually flash frozen so they are ready to scoop out in any amount needed. There will be no deliveries in August so get on the list now. I have purchased these multiple times and they are fabulous! Please visit their website for all info and to order.

https://www.burkehillfarm.com

I was recently lucky enough to capture a bobcat on my trail camera, such a beautiful cat not often seen.

There have also been quite a few deer passing through as well as a coyote, a waddling porcupine and a turkey or two. I really love to see what passes through and share those pictures with my dad. I know he would rather the deer take part in munching in the back field instead of his garden. The green beans and beet greens seem to be favorites. I always tell him it is so nice of him to plant the deer a salad bar buffet, haha.

Please send any news or events my way. If anyone wants any AOHD information or news added for next weeks column please get it to me as soon an you possibly can and I will certainly include it.

diananadeau@ymail.com

Bethel News

Linda Howe

Summer is moving forward at a fast speed. August is a great month for lots of fresh produce grown locally. Swain’s Farm Stand and Carter’s Farm Stand should begin to have local corn on the cob for sale. Tomatoes, zucchini, and blueberries are other crops that come on strong in the month of August. I need to collect the ingredients to make zucchini relish which is a two-day process but very well worth the time.

I’m planning on attending the Friday morning 8 a.m. class at the Community Annex on the subject of breathwork. T.J. Farnum is the instructor so I am looking forward to learning about more practices for self-care.

This Saturday, on lower Main Street at the Philbrook Place you will find Randy Bennett signing his White Mountain books from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Talking with a Maine historian always provides a treasure trove of information. Stop by and visit Randy as well as check out the offerings inside the Philbrook Place. (This book signing was rescheduled from July 18 to this Saturday, July 25.)

Events next week include the monthly Community Supper at the Bethel Alliance Church on Wednesday, July 29, from 4:30 to 6:00 p.m. The church is located across from Telstar on the Walkers Mills Road. This meal is free and open to the public.

On the topic of meals, the recent Neighbors Feeding Neighbors in July provided free meals and donated provisions for our local food pantry. The hamburger that was grilled came from Blake’s Farm which is supporting our local farms in our area.

Folks also donated salads, which is always a blessing. The next Neighbors Feeding Neighbors will take place on Tuesday, August 11, at the Methodist Church.

I graduated from Mexico High School in 1972 and over the decades I still get together with some of my classmates/friends. Joanie Dawson and I have been friends for decades. Joanie lives in rural Maine with her husband. She worked for over 40 years with juveniles who got into some legal troubles. Upon retirement, she took up watercolor painting and still continues with that art. Joanie then decided to try her hand at writing short stories and recently had her first book published.

Her book, Something For Everyone: Three Short Stories From Maine, features three stories. “Starting Over” is a love story. “The Old Seaman’s Chest” is a mystery. “Finding A Home” is written for middle grades, ages eight to 12, but adults enjoy the story, too. What makes this book unique is she is not only the author but the illustrator as well. It’s unusual to see the same person as author and illustrator, but Joanie is very talented along with being humble as well. I hope she continues to paint and write, for these gifts to make life more enjoyable for us all.

Please send any news or events to lhowe7273@gmail.com

East Bethel News

Wally Ritz

July is moving right along. I hope everyone made it through the extended power outage last week.

The Locke Mills Union Church had a very nice turnout for the spaghetti supper. The community spirit was up. Lots of volunteers made the work easy and the food donations were amazing. Special thanks to Howe Family Farm and John Carter Farm and Maine Line Products. Comments were, when are you going to do this again! So look for another spaghetti supper in September.

The Craft and Yard Sale at the Locke Mills Union Church is coming up soon also. Check the flyer for more details and contact information. The church would also appreciate donations toward their yard sale.

Sonny Hastings will celebrate his birthday on July 23rd. Happy Birthday from the whole neighborhood, Sonny. Make sure to beep your horn if driving by to let him know you are thinking of him.

Call me at 207-595-0691 email heinrichcracker@gmail.com with all your news and information.

Enjoy your summer!

Gilead News

Lin Chapman

Well, we survived a couple of power outages recently. The first one was close to 12 hours long. That was brought on by the wind and rain that we were having at the time. It really wasn’t a surprise like the power outage on Monday, the 20^th. We were having nice weather and all of a sudden, around 10:30 am, the power went off. A call to CMP got a work order started and a restoration time of 1:00 pm. Then it was revealed on Facebook that a pole on the North Road had just fallen over. Restoration was then pushed up to 5:00 pm. The North Road was shut down just past the Gilead green bridge heading towards Bethel. CMP appeared and power was restored around 4:30 pm. Let’s hope we are done with power outages for a while.

Pete and Claudia Risbara entertained some company last week. Their granddaughter, Campbell Perrine, from South Carolina spent some time with them here in Gilead and traveling around the Portland area.

Gilead Historical Society

Last week I posted photos of the new lights in the schoolhouse and station. I thought I included a thank you to Derek and his crew from Simpson Electric 207 LLC for a job well done. We appreciate the quick response from them. They are located in Dixfield, Maine. (207) 491-6373.

This week’s history is from some letters that were written in 1905. They were received by the GHS in 2006. The letters were transcribed by Cindy Bennett, who is a direct descendent of the Gilead Peabody family. There were thirteen letters in all that the sister of her great-grandfather had written on her trip through Europe in 1905. Some letters are quite long, so we will start with the introduction by Cindy Bennett and then include Letter #1. These letters are very well written and quite interesting with an insight into what was happening in 1905, so we hope they are to the readers of this column. (Letters were published in the GHS newsletter-Fall ‘06 & Spring ‘07)

Introduction by Cindy Bennett

“On May 30, 1905 May Peabody and her three friends left New York City on the German ship “Prinz Adelbert,” bound for Naples. In the course of the trip through Europe, which lasted until early September, May wrote 13 letters home to her family describing her experiences.

About the author of the letters: At the time she set out, May Peabody was 41. Unmarried, she was a teacher at the Horace Mann School in New York City. The school was an experimental school closely associated with the Teachers’ College of Columbia University, teaching boys and girls. In the letters, she occasionally refers to “Whittier Hall,” which houses the Teachers’ College. We know nothing of May’s companions on the trip to Europe, not even their first names.

Besides the trip described in these letters, there is another story available in which Aunt May took part. Around 1884, she and some friends had an outing to the top of Mt. Washington in a carriage. A description can be found here: http://www.bethelhistorical.org/Mountain_Days.html

On the recipients and the house in Gilead: The recipients were:

“Mamma” - her mother, Mary E. Peabody, born in 1841

Her sister Ada and brother-in-law Arthur Roberts living at Waterville Maine, where Arthur was on the faculty of Colby College. He served as President of the college from 1908 to 1927.

Her brother Will and sister-in-law Lily Peabody (CB’s great-grandparents) and their son Walter (then age 8), living in White Plains, New York, at the time. Will was a civil engineer. His most “visible” project was Quabbin Reservoir in Massachusetts (1920s), Boston’s water supply.

Her brother Frank and sister-in-law Ethel Peabody, living in Akron, Ohio.

The Peabody family was from Gilead, Maine (originally called “Peabody’s Patent”) and was descended from some of the first settlers of Gilead, Thomas and Mary Peabody. One of the main businesses in the area was logging and lumber.

Their house had originally been built as a tavern in 1799 and is on historic registers as the “Peabody Tavern,” but was no longer in use as such. It is still standing and has recently been renovated. It is now situated between the railroad line and US Route #2. In 1905 the house was only used by the family in summer. (It was considerably cooler than New York or Boston.) The summer get-togethers in Gilead continued into the 1940s: my mother remembers plagues of mosquitoes in summers at the “red house”.

Letter #1

Prinz Adelbert [a ship crossing the Atlantic Ocean]

Sunday, June 4, 1905

My dear Family,

There are so many things I want to tell you that I hardly know where to begin. We have been out almost a week and a more restful and delightful seven days I have never known. We have had all kinds of weather, cold and warm, windy and calm, sunshine and rain and the sea has changed accordingly. Sometimes as calm as a mill pond and sometimes like the sea as I have seen it at Cape

Elizabeth after a storm.

Since Saturday we have had ideal days, warm enough to sit on deck without jackets or gloves. No, I’ve had not the slightest touch of seasickness. I’ve enjoyed every minute since we came on board. I sleep like a top and eat every time anything is offered. In fact I’ve never felt better. This is an ideal morning and we are all on deck. The sea is blue as sapphires, not a white cap to be seen. The boat moves along so steadily that I hardly know we are on the water. Nothing to be seen but the beautiful blue sky and the sea almost as blue. This afternoon we have seen a great many porpoise and this evening the phosphorescent lights in the water have been

beautiful. It has been an ideal day, never to be forgotten.

Wednesday, June 7, 1905.

We passed the Azores yesterday. The only island we were near was Flores. We were about an hour passing it and it was a beautiful changing picture to be long remembered; the color of houses, soil, grass and rocks, the mist, and the sea on every side were

indescribably beautiful. The ship is becoming a very familiar place but I am not one bit tired of it. Naturally the passengers are

becoming very friendly. We have found some very pleasant Cleveland people, Dr. and Mrs. Lewis, Mr. and Mrs. Austin. They are to take much the same trip that we do so we are hoping to meet them again.

Such good meals we have had and so many courses! At luncheon we generally have soup, fish, and two meat courses beside desserts. For dinner soup, fish, three or more meat courses, dessert (usually ice cream) fruits, nuts, cheese, coffee. I’ve had a ravenous appetite all the time and now feel thoroughly rested.

Thurs. June 8.

I have not told you how much I enjoyed my steamer letters. When I first got on board I found fourteen but none from any of my

family. After we started I found letters from Mamma, Will, Lily, Walter, Ada, and Arthur. Thank you all for giving me so much pleasure. Lily, your letter was particularly clever, my friends thought. I had a letter from Aunt Hattie enclosing [a] check for $10. and Jessie Guernsey sent me $2. to buy something I wanted in Florence. So you see my friends and relatives have supplied me with means to purchase souvenirs, for Ada gave me $1. and Kathleen sent the same amount. I suspect Mamma of some such thing too for I found a nice little package in the pocket of my skirt marked for my birthday.

Monday June 12.

The end of our voyage seems very near for tomorrow we reach Naples. These last days have had more variety. On Friday afternoon we passed Cape St. Vincent, and all the evening we could faintly discern the lights of the Spanish shore. We were all up early

Saturday for we were to pass Gibraltar. Gibraltar itself was grand, a huge mass of rock towering up into the sky. Apparently entirely separated from the mainland until we were close by. The finest view of the rock itself is after we have passed it and are in the blue Mediterranean. Then it rises to an immense height and its sides are almost perpendicular. This is the view we most often see. Saturday was a gala day on the ship too. The captain celebrated his twenty fifth anniversary of his life on the sea.

Today we expect to see Sardinia and between ten and twelve tomorrow reach Naples. I am anxious to hear from you all, but hope all is well. Shall be especially glad to hear how Ethel is getting on.

Tuesday a.m.

Our bags are packed and we are all ready to leave the steamer. I want to mail this at Naples as soon as we land so shall add only a word. Last night was the Captain’s dinner. About the same things to eat except for an extra meat course, but the dining room was decorated and everybody dressed in his or her best.

Goodbye for this time. Everybody is astir and I cannot write. Much love to you all.

May

Got any news? Email chapmal@hotmail.com

AFCI News

Melinda Remington

Hello Everyone,

July has been busy, and I imagine many of you feel the same. I try to eat well, exercise, rest, nurture relationships, keep up with home and yard, serve as your Community Connector—and still make time for sewing. At 74, I’m learning it’s okay to slow down a little while enjoying the things that help me stay balanced and healthy.

I want to share a small snippet of my personal life with you so you can get to know me better. You will see the kinds of activities I attend, mostly community related that are listed in our Monthly Events handout. Pictures speak louder than words; I will share some of my favorites with captions.

After seeing my pictures, I sincerely hope you will share with me your photos and favorite activities. Just write a brief description. This way we can all get to know our neighbors better.

Also, if you would like to receive the Monthly Events handout via email, please just reach out and send me an email.

Enjoy each day!

Melinda Remington

AFCI Community Connector

melindaremington@yahoo.com

After Tuesday’s 9:00 am walk at ‘Buck’s Ledge Trail for All’ , Ed Rosenberg and his wife Leslie led us out to meet the trail crew from the Maine Conservation Corps. The young hearty folks hailed from Arizona, upstate NY, and PA. They are doing fabulous work. Coming from the other direction we met Marcel Polak. Also checking out the work were Jane Chandler and Dick Stratton. It is a busy place up there as we also met a large group from the Maine 4-H Camp in Bryant Pond and a large family group from Exeter, NH. The members of the Woodstock Conservation Commission are to be commended for their dedication to developing this local treasure.

Another day involved a walk on the Davis Park trail. I love the paintings on the sidewalk. The solar system and brig descriptions of each planet. Walking with friends is always a good idea. Lots of stories to share or quiet companionship.

Last weekend I attended the annual ‘ Smith Cousins Reunion ‘ at Kiwanis Beach in Standish. I grew up in North Windham and Portland, so not related to any local Smiths. Had a wonderful time catching up with those who live in Maine, Washington state, Georgia, North Carolina and New Hampshire. The next day it was back to Standish for a gala wedding party that included lobster dinners and dancing to a fantastic dance band. I am so happy for my older sister and new husband. The theme of the commitment ceremony was ‘It Is Never Too Late;’ the bride and groom looked joyous and the flowers that adorned the venue were outstanding!

The Thursday “Mornings at the Museum” are a big hit with local and visiting children and their caregivers. Teachers and students from Mahoosuc kids walk from Crescent Park for the 9:30-11:00 sessions of art, music, crafts, and museum exploring. Older volunteers and young “docents” work together for an enjoyable and meaningful experience. This year I sewed felt hand puppets for the children to personalize. It was a fun time and the children are very sweet, polite and appreciative. A joyful experience for me.

Docent Mia enjoyed working with the children. The nanny to three children proudly displays her charges’ creations.

Locke’s Mills News

Amy Wight Chapman

It’s the height of summer, and time for wild blueberries. The bushes at the edge of the water in front of our camp were covered with blossoms back in June, and then with more green berries than I ever remember seeing on them, and I was looking forward to an abundant harvest. That is, until I realized that the berries were disappearing as fast as they ripened.

Read more

Read more

I’m planning on attending the Friday morning 8 a.m. class at the Community Annex on the subject of breathwork. T.J. Farnum is the instructor so I am looking forward to learning about more practices for self-care.

This Saturday, on lower Main Street at the Philbrook Place you will find Randy Bennett signing his White Mountain books from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Talking with a Maine historian always provides a treasure trove of information. Stop by and visit Randy as well as check out the offerings inside the Philbrook Place. (This book signing was rescheduled from July 18 to this Saturday, July 25.)

Events next week include the monthly Community Supper at the Bethel Alliance Church on Wednesday, July 29, from 4:30 to 6:00 p.m. The church is located across from Telstar on the Walkers Mills Road. This meal is free and open to the public.

On the topic of meals, the recent Neighbors Feeding Neighbors in July provided free meals and donated provisions for our local food pantry. The hamburger that was grilled came from Blake’s Farm which is supporting our local farms in our area.

Folks also donated salads, which is always a blessing. The next Neighbors Feeding Neighbors will take place on Tuesday, August 11, at the Methodist Church.

I graduated from Mexico High School in 1972 and over the decades I still get together with some of my classmates/friends. Joanie Dawson and I have been friends for decades. Joanie lives in rural Maine with her husband. She worked for over 40 years with juveniles who got into some legal troubles. Upon retirement, she took up watercolor painting and still continues with that art. Joanie then decided to try her hand at writing short stories and recently had her first book published.

Her book, Something For Everyone: Three Short Stories From Maine, features three stories. “Starting Over” is a love story. “The Old Seaman’s Chest” is a mystery. “Finding A Home” is written for middle grades, ages eight to 12, but adults enjoy the story, too. What makes this book unique is she is not only the author but the illustrator as well. It’s unusual to see the same person as author and illustrator, but Joanie is very talented along with being humble as well. I hope she continues to paint and write, for these gifts to make life more enjoyable for us all.

Please send any news or events to lhowe7273@gmail.com

July has been busy, and I imagine many of you feel the same. I try to eat well, exercise, rest, nurture relationships, keep up with home and yard, serve as your Community Connector—and still make time for sewing. At 74, I’m learning it’s okay to slow down a little while enjoying the things that help me stay balanced and healthy.

I want to share a small snippet of my personal life with you so you can get to know me better. You will see the kinds of activities I attend, mostly community related that are listed in our Monthly Events handout. Pictures speak louder than words; I will share some of my favorites with captions.

After seeing my pictures, I sincerely hope you will share with me your photos and favorite activities. Just write a brief description. This way we can all get to know our neighbors better.

Also, if you would like to receive the Monthly Events handout via email, please just reach out and send me an email.

Enjoy each day!

Melinda Remington

AFCI Community Connector

melindaremington@yahoo.com

After Tuesday’s 9:00 am walk at ‘Buck’s Ledge Trail for All’ , Ed Rosenberg and his wife Leslie led us out to meet the trail crew from the Maine Conservation Corps. The young hearty folks hailed from Arizona, upstate NY, and PA. They are doing fabulous work. Coming from the other direction we met Marcel Polak. Also checking out the work were Jane Chandler and Dick Stratton. It is a busy place up there as we also met a large group from the Maine 4-H Camp in Bryant Pond and a large family group from Exeter, NH. The members of the Woodstock Conservation Commission are to be commended for their dedication to developing this local treasure.

Another day involved a walk on the Davis Park trail. I love the paintings on the sidewalk. The solar system and brig descriptions of each planet. Walking with friends is always a good idea. Lots of stories to share or quiet companionship.

Last weekend I attended the annual ‘ Smith Cousins Reunion ‘ at Kiwanis Beach in Standish. I grew up in North Windham and Portland, so not related to any local Smiths. Had a wonderful time catching up with those who live in Maine, Washington state, Georgia, North Carolina and New Hampshire. The next day it was back to Standish for a gala wedding party that included lobster dinners and dancing to a fantastic dance band. I am so happy for my older sister and new husband. The theme of the commitment ceremony was ‘It Is Never Too Late;’ the bride and groom looked joyous and the flowers that adorned the venue were outstanding!

The Thursday “Mornings at the Museum” are a big hit with local and visiting children and their caregivers. Teachers and students from Mahoosuc kids walk from Crescent Park for the 9:30-11:00 sessions of art, music, crafts, and museum exploring. Older volunteers and young “docents” work together for an enjoyable and meaningful experience. This year I sewed felt hand puppets for the children to personalize. It was a fun time and the children are very sweet, polite and appreciative. A joyful experience for me.

Docent Mia enjoyed working with the children. The nanny to three children proudly displays her charges’ creations.

Today I ordered my firewood for the winter. I’m not looking forward to heating oil prices this year, so I ordered an extra cord of wood. I’m not looking forward to it.

Last week I had visitors! Andy and Marlene Stowell, along with their granddaughter …

Read more

The Locke Mills Union Church had a very nice turnout for the spaghetti supper. The community spirit was up. Lots of volunteers made the work easy and the food donations were amazing. Special thanks to Howe Family Farm and John Carter Farm and Maine Line Products. Comments were, when are you going to do this again! So look for another spaghetti supper in September.

The Craft and Yard Sale at the Locke Mills Union Church is coming up soon also. Check the flyer for more details and contact information. The church would also appreciate donations toward their yard sale.

Sonny Hastings will celebrate his birthday on July 23rd. Happy Birthday from the whole neighborhood, Sonny. Make sure to beep your horn if driving by to let him know you are thinking of him.

Call me at 207-595-0691 email heinrichcracker@gmail.com with all your news and information.

Enjoy your summer!

Read more

Pete and Claudia Risbara entertained some company last week. Their granddaughter, Campbell Perrine, from South Carolina spent some time with them here in Gilead and traveling around the Portland area.

Gilead Historical Society

Last week I posted photos of the new lights in the schoolhouse and station. I thought I included a thank you to Derek and his crew from Simpson Electric 207 LLC for a job well done. We appreciate the quick response from them. They are located in Dixfield, Maine. (207) 491-6373.

This week’s history is from some letters that were written in 1905. They were received by the GHS in 2006. The letters were transcribed by Cindy Bennett, who is a direct descendent of the Gilead Peabody family. There were thirteen letters in all that the sister of her great-grandfather had written on her trip through Europe in 1905. Some letters are quite long, so we will start with the introduction by Cindy Bennett and then include Letter #1. These letters are very well written and quite interesting with an insight into what was happening in 1905, so we hope they are to the readers of this column. (Letters were published in the GHS newsletter-Fall ‘06 & Spring ‘07)

Introduction by Cindy Bennett

“On May 30, 1905 May Peabody and her three friends left New York City on the German ship “Prinz Adelbert,” bound for Naples. In the course of the trip through Europe, which lasted until early September, May wrote 13 letters home to her family describing her experiences.

About the author of the letters: At the time she set out, May Peabody was 41. Unmarried, she was a teacher at the Horace Mann School in New York City. The school was an experimental school closely associated with the Teachers’ College of Columbia University, teaching boys and girls. In the letters, she occasionally refers to “Whittier Hall,” which houses the Teachers’ College. We know nothing of May’s companions on the trip to Europe, not even their first names.

Besides the trip described in these letters, there is another story available in which Aunt May took part. Around 1884, she and some friends had an outing to the top of Mt. Washington in a carriage. A description can be found here: http://www.bethelhistorical.org/Mountain_Days.html

On the recipients and the house in Gilead: The recipients were:

“Mamma” - her mother, Mary E. Peabody, born in 1841

Her sister Ada and brother-in-law Arthur Roberts living at Waterville Maine, where Arthur was on the faculty of Colby College. He served as President of the college from 1908 to 1927.

Her brother Will and sister-in-law Lily Peabody (CB’s great-grandparents) and their son Walter (then age 8), living in White Plains, New York, at the time. Will was a civil engineer. His most “visible” project was Quabbin Reservoir in Massachusetts (1920s), Boston’s water supply.

Her brother Frank and sister-in-law Ethel Peabody, living in Akron, Ohio.

The Peabody family was from Gilead, Maine (originally called “Peabody’s Patent”) and was descended from some of the first settlers of Gilead, Thomas and Mary Peabody. One of the main businesses in the area was logging and lumber.

Their house had originally been built as a tavern in 1799 and is on historic registers as the “Peabody Tavern,” but was no longer in use as such. It is still standing and has recently been renovated. It is now situated between the railroad line and US Route #2. In 1905 the house was only used by the family in summer. (It was considerably cooler than New York or Boston.) The summer get-togethers in Gilead continued into the 1940s: my mother remembers plagues of mosquitoes in summers at the “red house”.

Letter #1

Prinz Adelbert [a ship crossing the Atlantic Ocean]

Sunday, June 4, 1905

My dear Family,

There are so many things I want to tell you that I hardly know where to begin. We have been out almost a week and a more restful and delightful seven days I have never known. We have had all kinds of weather, cold and warm, windy and calm, sunshine and rain and the sea has changed accordingly. Sometimes as calm as a mill pond and sometimes like the sea as I have seen it at Cape

Elizabeth after a storm.

Since Saturday we have had ideal days, warm enough to sit on deck without jackets or gloves. No, I’ve had not the slightest touch of seasickness. I’ve enjoyed every minute since we came on board. I sleep like a top and eat every time anything is offered. In fact I’ve never felt better. This is an ideal morning and we are all on deck. The sea is blue as sapphires, not a white cap to be seen. The boat moves along so steadily that I hardly know we are on the water. Nothing to be seen but the beautiful blue sky and the sea almost as blue. This afternoon we have seen a great many porpoise and this evening the phosphorescent lights in the water have been

beautiful. It has been an ideal day, never to be forgotten.

Wednesday, June 7, 1905.

We passed the Azores yesterday. The only island we were near was Flores. We were about an hour passing it and it was a beautiful changing picture to be long remembered; the color of houses, soil, grass and rocks, the mist, and the sea on every side were

indescribably beautiful. The ship is becoming a very familiar place but I am not one bit tired of it. Naturally the passengers are

becoming very friendly. We have found some very pleasant Cleveland people, Dr. and Mrs. Lewis, Mr. and Mrs. Austin. They are to take much the same trip that we do so we are hoping to meet them again.

Such good meals we have had and so many courses! At luncheon we generally have soup, fish, and two meat courses beside desserts. For dinner soup, fish, three or more meat courses, dessert (usually ice cream) fruits, nuts, cheese, coffee. I’ve had a ravenous appetite all the time and now feel thoroughly rested.

Thurs. June 8.

I have not told you how much I enjoyed my steamer letters. When I first got on board I found fourteen but none from any of my

family. After we started I found letters from Mamma, Will, Lily, Walter, Ada, and Arthur. Thank you all for giving me so much pleasure. Lily, your letter was particularly clever, my friends thought. I had a letter from Aunt Hattie enclosing [a] check for $10. and Jessie Guernsey sent me $2. to buy something I wanted in Florence. So you see my friends and relatives have supplied me with means to purchase souvenirs, for Ada gave me $1. and Kathleen sent the same amount. I suspect Mamma of some such thing too for I found a nice little package in the pocket of my skirt marked for my birthday.

Monday June 12.

The end of our voyage seems very near for tomorrow we reach Naples. These last days have had more variety. On Friday afternoon we passed Cape St. Vincent, and all the evening we could faintly discern the lights of the Spanish shore. We were all up early

Saturday for we were to pass Gibraltar. Gibraltar itself was grand, a huge mass of rock towering up into the sky. Apparently entirely separated from the mainland until we were close by. The finest view of the rock itself is after we have passed it and are in the blue Mediterranean. Then it rises to an immense height and its sides are almost perpendicular. This is the view we most often see. Saturday was a gala day on the ship too. The captain celebrated his twenty fifth anniversary of his life on the sea.

Today we expect to see Sardinia and between ten and twelve tomorrow reach Naples. I am anxious to hear from you all, but hope all is well. Shall be especially glad to hear how Ethel is getting on.

Tuesday a.m.

Our bags are packed and we are all ready to leave the steamer. I want to mail this at Naples as soon as we land so shall add only a word. Last night was the Captain’s dinner. About the same things to eat except for an extra meat course, but the dining room was decorated and everybody dressed in his or her best.

Goodbye for this time. Everybody is astir and I cannot write. Much love to you all.

May

Got any news? Email chapmal@hotmail.com

Concerts start at 6 pm, so gather up your chairs, bring along the family and come on up for an evening of entertainment. All concerts are free but donations are gladly accepted. Arrive even earlier and savor a nice meal at Mills Market or a delectable ice cream at Kate’s Kones.

Andover Olde Home Days is almost upon us. It is always such a fun day with lots to do. The Andover Service Circle needs some help this year for AOHD August 1st. They are looking for volunteers to help staff tables and to help with the 50/50 raffle ticket table and the ticket auction table. This is a great opportunity for high school students looking to earn community service hours while giving back to the community. Even if you can only help for part of the day, it would be greatly appreciated. Interested? Send their page a message on Facebook or contact group president, Andrea, at 207-392-1020.

The last meeting for the AOHD Committee will be at the Town Hall Monday, July 27, at 6 pm. Anyone can attend and I’m sure they would welcome any extra hands that would like to volunteer for the big day.

A reminder that the Photography Contest drop-off times are next Wednesday the 29th from 12-3, Thursday the 30th from 3-6, and Friday the 31st from 10-12. Photos can be dropped off downstairs at the Andover Town Hall. Thanks Chad!

The Andover Snow Valley Sno-goers has a great opportunity for one lucky person to experience a weekend at one of the Lone Mountain Campground’s A-frame cabins. The campground generously donated this to help support the snowmobile club. This is yet another reason why I love my little town, everyone pitches in to help one another. Tickets are $10 and the drawing will take place in September. Please visit the club’s booth this AOHD to purchase your ticket. All proceeds benefit the Andover Snow Valley Sno-goers. I’ll certainly be buying mine...those cabins are gorgeous!

This Saturday the campground will be having a visit from Dave’s Backyard BBQ from 2-7. They will also be at AOHD Friday night, July 31st, from 3-9 and all day Saturday August 1st. The menu looks amazing.

Reminder that there will be a special election to be held on August 10th from 2-6 pm at the Andover Town Hall to fill the empty selectman’s seat. Please come out and vote in this important election. Our town government is very vital for our town; the effort and time that is put in by our selectboard and town officials should not be overlooked.

If you are looking for some delicious Maine blueberries, you are in luck! Burke Hill Farms from Cherryfield, Maine will be delivering in our area on Wednesday, July 29. They will be at the Gem Theater parking lot in Bethel at 2:30 and at the Tractor Supply parking lot in Rumford at 3:05. They are organic wild Maine blueberries sold in 5 pound boxes, individually flash frozen so they are ready to scoop out in any amount needed. There will be no deliveries in August so get on the list now. I have purchased these multiple times and they are fabulous! Please visit their website for all info and to order.

https://www.burkehillfarm.com

I was recently lucky enough to capture a bobcat on my trail camera, such a beautiful cat not often seen.

There have also been quite a few deer passing through as well as a coyote, a waddling porcupine and a turkey or two. I really love to see what passes through and share those pictures with my dad. I know he would rather the deer take part in munching in the back field instead of his garden. The green beans and beet greens seem to be favorites. I always tell him it is so nice of him to plant the deer a salad bar buffet, haha.

Please send any news or events my way. If anyone wants any AOHD information or news added for next weeks column please get it to me as soon an you possibly can and I will certainly include it.

diananadeau@ymail.com

If you read Western Maine Neighborhood News by e-mail, you may have noticed that some of the images in this weeks WMNN failed to display. This appears to be a technical issue on Substack’s end that hopefully will be corrected soon. In the meantime, you can read this week’s WMNN in your web browser by following this link, and all of the images should load correctly. We apologize for any inconvenience!

The Medallion Hunt is On!

As many readers will fondly remember, for many years the Bethel Area Chamber of Commerce and the Bethel Citizen teamed up to sponsor an annual medallion hunt with the search running for several weeks leading up to Molly Ockett Day.

It’s been several summers now since a medallion hunt competition took place, but this year, the Museums of the Bethel Historical Society has partnered with the Bethel Area Business Association (BABA) to bring the medallion hunt contest back with an extra-special Independence 250 medallion hunt in commemoration of the United States 250th anniversary!

If you’ve been following MBHS or BABA on social media or listening to WOXO, you may have seen or heard the first two clues, but for those who missed it, here they are:

Clue #1:

Everyone loves a good story;
We know one that could hold your attention.

Clue #2:

We’ll begin with the end:
A great separation, made official, at last.
(Six decades later, another—
This one a much less bloody affair!)

Stay tuned for Clue #3, which will be announced on the morning of Monday, July 20, on WOXO radio and posted to the BABA and MBHS Facebook pages on Wednesday, July 22. Happy hunting!

Please review the rules below before setting out, and especially take care to be safe and respect property.

Rules

The Medallion Hunt will help commemorate America’s 250th anniversary and bring back a beloved Bethel tradition. The Bethel Area Business Association and MBHS will be offering a $599.99 cash prize (generously donated by Western Maine Supply & Clean Cut Painting Company) to the person who finds the medallion.

The object of the hunt is to decipher a series of clues and locate the medallion hidden on public land within the town lines of Albany, Andover, Bethel, Gilead, Greenwood, Grafton, Hanover, Mason, Newry, Riley Plantation (Sunday River area), and Woodstock.

The finder of the medallion may claim the cash prize on Molly Ockett Day.

Clues:

· Clues, each different and more revealing, will be published once a week for five weeks leading up to Molly Ockett Day on August 8, 2026.

· The first clue will be revealed at MBHS’s July 4th Celebration.

· All clues will be announced on WOXO radio on Monday mornings, starting July 6th, and then published on the Bethel Area Business Associations & Museums of the Bethel Historical Society Facebook pages on Wednesday mornings at 8:15am, starting on July 8th.

· If the medallion is not found by the fireworks on Molly Ockett Day, the hunt will be terminated.

Treasure Hunt Rules

· Anyone is eligible to join the thrilling hunt for $599.99 except for MBHS staff, trustees, Independence 250 committee members, and their immediate family, as well as Bethel Area Business Association Officers and immediate family members.

· To claim the prize money, you must be 18 years or older or accompanied by a parent/guardian.

· The finder of the Molly Ockett Treasure Hunt medallion must immediately return the medallion to Bethel Area Business Association by calling 207-890-3617.

· The finder will receive the cash prize of $599.99 on Molly Ockett Day August 8th.

· BABA reserves the right to discontinue the hunt if public property is destroyed, or if reports of private property trespassing are discovered.

· The medallion will be in a clear container, and is generally hidden in or attached to something else. The medallion is not buried below ground and as the rules state, searchers do not need to destroy property to find it, this includes digging up the ground.

· Searchers also do not need to risk personal injury to find the medallion.

· All contestants agree that BABA, MBHS and WOXO will have no liability whatsoever and will be held harmless of any injuries, losses, or damages of any kind resulting in whole or in part, directly or indirectly from acceptance, possession, misuse, or use of the prize or participation in this contest.

· The winner grants permission for Bethel Area Business Association (BABA) and Museums of the Bethel Historical Society (MBHS) to use his or her name and photograph.

AFCI News

Melinda Remington

Hello Folks,

These summer days sure are beautiful! I have been out and about these last couple of weeks and will share my pics of my adventures of being with my friends and neighbors. I hope you will consider sending me some pics and captions of what you have been up to this summer. In the family, I did send happy birthday wishes to my granddaughter Elizabeth’s cat.

Do any of you have a special pet? Amy Chapman joined our Tuesday morning walk at Buck’s Ledge Trail for All with her black Lab puppy, Lena. She was on a leash and very well behaved (Lena, not Amy…just a little joke). Amy was joining some of her family members whom you might recognize in the pics. Ed Rosenberg, a trail enthusiast and historian of the area, frequently regales us with interesting stories of people and nature in the area.

I recently attended one of the Andover Summer Concerts. Normally they are held outdoors at the Gazebo on the Common but this time they held it in the iconic Andover Congregational Church. The church was full and everyone was encouraged to sing along. The Andover folks and visitors were enthusiastic participants, singing easily remembered tunes from the 60s, 70s, and 80s! My friends and I did share delicious fried haddock, clams and scallops at Mills’ Market beforehand and then stopped at Katy’s Cones before heading home. My friends had never been to Andover so it was fun to introduce them to this beautiful and serene setting.

I hope you are enjoying your own garden or the ones dotted around your area towns. I spied volunteers Moriah McDonough and Bob Elliott beautifying Bethel last Sunday afternoon. Moriah watered thirsty plants while Bob picked up rocks that were strewn on the sidewalk. Thank you to all the folks who volunteer to make our world a better place in which to live and thrive.

Please do check out the AFCI July Events Handout that was published here last week. I hope to see you around!

Melinda Remington

AFCI Community Connector

Locke’s Mills News

Amy Wight Chapman

All of the weather sites I follow seemed to agree that western Maine was in for some extreme weather on Tuesday night. Most warned of the possibility of severe thunderstorms, wind gusts up to 75 mph, golf ball-sized hail, and maybe even tornadoes. By early evening, however, the threat seemed to have abated and, oddly enough, it seems that we have the presence of Canadian wildfire smoke to thank for that. Apparently the combination of more clouds than expected and a thick layer of smoke from more than 800 wildfires currently burning across Canada prevented the development of instability in the atmosphere that leads to thunderstorms.

The maps I’ve seen show the smoke that has made its way to Maine as “light,” but it’s been enough to turn the sun red in the late afternoon and evening (when I could actually see the sun through the smoke and clouds). However, the color-coded maps show the smoke in Connecticut, where I grew up and where my brother Andy still lives, as “very heavy,” with unhealthy air quality.

Harry Orcutt and Susan Vacca of Greenwood celebrated their 50^th anniversary on the Fourth of July, America’s 250^th birthday, which means that they were married on the day of the nation’s Bicentennial. They celebrated in grand style, by riding up Main Street in Bethel in an open Jeep in the Fourth of July parade, dressed in their Revolutionary War costumes.

Tony and I attended the Greenwood Historical Society program, “Greenwood 101,” last week and very much enjoyed Andrew Wheeler’s informative presentation. We also appreciated the air conditioning in the Legion Hall!

With the passing of Beth Brough on July 11, our town has lost the holder of its Boston Post cane, and I have lost a dear friend. All of the words I can think of to describe Beth fall far short of conveying what an absolutely magnificent, loving, generous, and joyous person she was. I can only say that I will miss her so much, and I will always count myself blessed to have known her. Perhaps more than anyone I have ever known, Beth embodied the advice that if you love someone, you should let them know. There will be a service to celebrate her wonderful life at the West Parish Congregational Church in Bethel on Saturday, July 25, at 11 a.m. I love you, Beth.

Here are some upcoming events you may want to attend:

Saturday, July 18, and every Saturday through August 29, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Open House at the Greenwood Historical Society museums on Main Street in Locke’s Mills. Stop by to visit and see the exhibits!

Monday, July 20, at 6:00 p.m. at the West Paris Historical Society, 221 Main Street in West Paris: “The Poland Spring Resort; Its Stories, Guests, and Facilities.” Guest speaker Laura Brown from the Poland Spring Museums will tell stories about the facilities and its guests. Poland Spring Resort has a legendary place in the history of Maine dating back to 1794. A 5,000-acre resort attracted vacationers who were the economic and social elite of the country. The Ricker family purchased the Maine State Building of the 1893 Columbian Exposition, dismantled it, and rebuilt it at Poland Spring. Other features are the golf course, the Chapel, and of course the bottling plant. Light refreshments will be served. Parking available behind the West Paris Library.

Wednesday, August 5, at 7 p.m. at the Locke’s Mills Legion Hall, Greenwood Historical Society program, “How it used to be,” will feature a panel of some of Greenwood’s oldest residents telling stories about “how life used to be in Greenwood.” It will be a great chance for newer residents to learn how life used to be here in our community.

Friday and Saturday, August 7 and 8, on the lawn of the Bethel Library: Annual Used Book Sale. The sale begins at noon on Friday and continues all day on Saturday. This much-anticipated event will take place rain or shine. For more information, call 207-824-2520.

Saturday, August 8, is Molly Ockett Day in Bethel, beginning with the parade at 10:30 a.m., continuing all day with kids’ activities, food, vendors, and entertainment on the Common, and culminating in fireworks at 9 p.m. You can find the full schedule of events on the Bethel Area Business Association Facebook page, as well as the first two weekly clues for the Molly Ockett Day Medallion Hunt.

Here’s a memory from Molly Ockett Day in 2016, when the Greenwood Historical Society booth offered delicious baked goods made with recipes from some of Greenwood’s best cooks—Diddy Johnson’s blueberry cake, Phyllis Coolidge’s raisin cookies, Elsie Bennett’s molasses crinkles, and Gram Nellie Martin’s toffee squares.

Saturday, August 15, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the West Paris Historical Society, 221 Main Street in West Paris: Indoor Yard Sale. Items include books, home decor, dishes, tools, games, and other treasures! Proceeds benefit the West Paris Historical Society. Parking available behind the West Paris Library.

Saturday, August 15, at 6:30 p.m. at the West Paris Library: Amy Wight Chapman (hey, that’s me!) will read from and discuss her family memoir. Published by the Museums of the Bethel Historical Society, Just Like Glass is the story of an indomitable family and how a strong matriarch, the stillness of a small pond in western Maine, and one unexpected addition set them on a path to healing from tragedy and redefining themselves as a family unit.

Pupdate: Lena has had a busy week! On Saturday, Tony and I took her for a short hike on the Chapman Brook Trail, where she got to play in the brook a bit as well as hike. She behaved very well on the “out” part of our out-and-back hike, but as soon as we turned around, she was up to her old tricks, jumping on us, grabbing our clothing in her teeth, and refusing to make any forward progress whatsoever.

This has been a persistent problem since she was less than three months old, although, thankfully, it’s happening much less often now and usually only lasts for a couple of minutes. I used to be able to just pick her up and carry her for a short distance, until she got over it, but now that she’s over five months and weighs close to 40 pounds, that’s no longer an option.

Since the behavior only seems to occur when we turn around to retrace our steps, we decided that maybe the solution was to find loop trails to walk with her. On Sunday, we went back to the same trailhead on the North Road, but instead of the Chapman Brook Trail, we walked the Esker Loop, across the road…and it worked! She was pretty much a model puppy for the whole hike; I was so busy marveling that my clothes weren’t being shredded that I forgot to take a single photo.

Monday was playdate with Puck day, and both dogs wore themselves out with an hour of chase games, in and out of the lake. Puck seems to have decided that Lena is big enough now to handle somewhat rougher play, so there was a lot of wrestling involved. Five minutes after Puck left, Lena was sound asleep on the couch.

On Tuesday morning, Lena and I met my sister-in-law Louise and niece Alison at the Buck’s Ledge Community Forest and joined a group who regularly walk the Trail for All on Tuesday mornings, part of the Western Maine Hikes for All Ages program started by Sue Radway. There were eight humans on the walk, and Lena, who needs a lot more socialization than we’ve exposed her to so far (mainly because we’re pretty sure other people won’t take kindly to having their clothes shredded) behaved much better than I would have predicted. Once she had greeted everyone (somewhat boisterously) she was more interested in chasing bugs and sniffing her way along the trail than in jumping on them. Life with Lena is finally beginning to get a little easier!

I picked the first of this year’s wild highbush blueberries at camp on Monday morning, and made a batch of blueberry muffins. My family has been picking berries from those bushes, which grow close to the pond, since 1955!

This online newsletter is intended to keep our communities informed, so if you have news, events, or photos you’d like to have included here, I hope you’ll share them with me! You can reach me by email at amy.w.chapman@gmail.com or by phone or text at 207-890-4812.

“You’ll never regret eating blueberries or working up a sweat.” — Jacquelyn Mitchard

Newry News

Amy Henley

School vacation is half over at this point and it really has gone quickly.

The garden continues to do well despite limited rain. We have watered it at night as it is quite dry. The beans are recovering from their haircut by Betty the hen and hopefully we’ll have some. The squash plants have quickly doubled in size and hopefully we’ll have plenty of those as well. My Instant Pot is ready for processing. I’m waiting on cucumbers as my lettuce is ready. It was excellent in my sandwich as well as salads. I’ll have to add this to the seed list again for next year.

I took a break from baking and stopped at Mandy B’s Bakery and picked up some cinnamon buns which were excellent. It is hard to get motivated to bake in the warm weather. I did make some hard boiled eggs and have them pickling as this was a request from the boys. My hens are laying at least a dozen eggs a day right now. We had egg salad sandwiches as well as potato salad which are a perfect summer supper. The Instant Pot makes the peeling process so much easier. If only I had known this years ago. Steaming is the best way to make hard boiled eggs and have them easily peel.

I have been enjoying the pool after blowing up some new chair floats. The temperature has been perfect; even adding water as the level had dropped did not cool it down too much.

A little bit of hay was done on Saturday and Sunday we made the trip to Mercer to pick up our bull River who had been hanging out at a turkey farm. I was disappointed that the bakery was closed but so happy for Blake, the main baker, as she got engaged. We’ll definitely have to make a trip over again to grab some donuts or whatever other goodies she has whipped up.

The Comprehensive Plan Committee met on Monday and great progress is being made. The next chapter is Agriculture and Foresty which are quite limited in this area now compared to what they used to be.

The Planning Board continues to look for an alternate member. If you are interested, please contact the Town Office.

A big thank you to Heather Vail who keeps our planters and hanging baskets at the Town Office looking spectacular. The colors this year are beautiful.

All day Tuesday it looked like rain and I waited for thunderstorms and rain which I never saw. There was some light rumbling in the evening but unless I slept through it, the weather reports were extremely wrong for this area, but that is nothing new. It did however rain Wednesday morning. I was out for a run and it started to sprinkle but the sky didn’t look any different than it did 24 hours before so I kept going. The drops increased and I looked up at the sky laughed and told Mother Nature to “Bring it on!” Well, she did and I was a mile away. I still laughed and picked up my pace heading home. I got wet but wasn’t soaked and it was still a great start to the day.

Send me your news to newrynews24@gmail.com and I’ll add it to my column. Have a great week and stay cool.

Woodstock News

Linda Stowell

Hello! I am home from a wonderful family vacation. On Friday, July 3, 20 of us (16 family plus four extras) set forth on an epic trip. DMC Livery picked us all up and dropped us at the gate for Turkish Air. We flew out after 9 pm, arriving in Istanbul after a long flight. After a brief layover, we then went on to Athens.

A shuttle from the hotel where we would spend that night met us with a sign saying GLINES. We piled in, and finally arrived. We survived the night, and had a lovely breakfast on the top floor, where the Acropolis stood in the distance. A mini-bus took us to the port. When I saw the size of it, and then looked at all of us, plus a good amount of large luggage, I seriously questioned how it was going to happen. Miraculously, it did happen, though it was like being in a clown car! Next move was boarding the Norwegian Pearl.

We made it onto the ship, and then a bit later, to our rooms. I think we all slept pretty well that night.

We left the port of Piraeus, and arrived in Santorini the next day. The weather for the week was quite hot, and it seemed to be the hottest on that first full day. We headed out on an excursion, which involved taking a tender to the pier, and then a larger boat to Santorini. Santorini is the result of a volcanic explosion, and we were sailing in the crater.

It was all uphill, of course. Walking was not easy; uneven ground and sidewalks, slanted steps, and narrow passageways. Add to that the extreme heat, and the pressure of trying to keep up with a group. Needless to say, a cold beverage or two was enjoyed during the trek. I am very happy to say that my “new” knees held up very well!

With so many of us traveling together, we were not all together on outside excursions. Often there were groups of four or five, who chose to do something specific. Those of us who walked around in Santorini were pretty wiped by the time we got back. The heat really does make it tough. We took water with us when we were out and about—an absolute necessity.

Our next day was Olympia (Katakolon). Some of us had no excursion planned, so we took a walk into a shopping area. It was busy, but there was no hurry. There were gelato shops on nearly every corner, so we took advantage of the opportunity to sit down and cool off a bit.

While on the ship, there was a group that made it to many trivia contests, karaoke, and other things happening. There were 80s dances, contests, and game shows.

On to Corfu—after watching The Durrells of Corfu, I was eager to see these views. It did not disappoint.

We went on a tour which stopped at a place where we sampled kumquat liqueur, cookies, and other goodies. They sold a variety of foods made of kumquats, as well as olive oil, and olive oil soap. We continued on to a restaurant (where we had this amazing view) and sampled traditional Greek foods, such as olives, yogurt, cheeses, and bread. It was there that I had the misfortune to lock myself in the WC. The lock was on the handle, and it was unlike any I’d ever seen. When I tried to unlock it, the door wouldn’t open, no matter which way I turned it. I then did what anyone would have done—I knocked on the door, and said “Help!” I didn’t shout, but did want to be heard. Fortunately, my niece Brenda and her daughter Maddie were very close by, and came to my assistance. After a few turns and pulls, I was free! If you know my sister, then you know it was good for some laughs!

We took the day off while in Dubrovnik. I later found out that there were nearby locations that were used in Game of Thrones, like King’s Landing and the Walk of Shame.

Friday evening on the ship, we had a special event planned. My nephew Brian turns 60 this week, and what better way to celebrate than on a cruise! We sat at three tables in the main dining room, all wearing our Hawaiian shirts (Brian has many of these shirts, so we all honored him by wearing one!), and waiting for him to arrive with his parents, Mike and Penny. When he appeared in the entrance, we burst into song with “Happy Birthday.” Then we all held up our sticks that had his face on it. It was a hilarious moment!

He took it well, and when the waiters brought his cake to him, “Happy Birthday” was sung again. One waiter took a photo and held it to his own face, and had quite a good time doing that!

Saturday put us in Koper, Slovenia. Several of us did a tour that day that took us to a wine fountain, and different locations where we could sample a variety of wines and foods for a small price.

On this day, Sarah and Colin left the ship and met up with Colin’s son, Gareth. Gareth left in January of this year, traveling to Bulgaria first. He has worked and traveled and had amazing adventures. Because we were “in the area,” they made arrangements to meet up for the day. They had a wonderful visit, and it was very hard to say good-bye that evening. Colin’s other son, Carrick, is currently on tour in Europe with American singer-rapper, Audrey Nuna. The two brothers have plans to meet up in Czechoslovakia in July.

On Sunday we began the long journey home. A bus took us from the ship to Marco Polo airport in Venice—nearly a three-hour ride. We had hours at the airport to wait, but the gate wasn’t posted until nearly time to board, so that was frustrating. Iceland Air was no frills, so if you wanted a meal, you had to purchase it. Coffee, water, and pillows—that was all that was offered. Brief stop in Reykjavik to change planes, then finally on to Boston. I got home around 2 am.

Everyone had an incredible time, and made memories to last a lifetime.

Here are some upcoming events:

A Greenwood Historical Society program on Wednesday, August 5, at 7:00 pm, at the Legion Hall in Locke Mills will be a panel of some of Greenwood’s oldest residents telling stories about “How life used to be” from people who grew up in Greenwood. It will be a great chance for new residents to learn “how it used to be.”

The Greenwood Historical Society Museums are open on Saturday mornings, from 10:00-1:00, July 18 through August 29.

Plans will soon be finalized for the annual Book/Craft/Bake Contest Event at the Whitman Library in Bryant Pond on August 15th, so stay tuned for further info.

If you have zany news or events to share, please send them to: lalalindastowell@gmail.com

Andover News

Diana Nadeau

Well, well, it has been quite a week for the Nadeau family. On July 4th the hubs was mowing the lawn before our cookout. His truck was parked with all the windows down as it was so hot that day, and you guessed it, a rock got kicked up. As the windows were down the rock entered through the driver’s side window and struck the windshield on the inside passenger side! Now that takes some skill! We had Safelite come right to the house to fix the windshield later that week...highly recommend them.

On Monday the 6th we traveled to Portland so he could undergo a heart procedure that we have waited quite some time for. All went well with that, thankfully. The day he was finally given permission to take a shower we woke up to no water, poor guy. Trying to get someone to come and check it out was no easy feat...one company was two weeks out! We went a couple days before someone was able to come. It was a wire on the pump down in the well. We had three things fixed—heart, windshield, and the well. Let us hope that is it for quite some time.

Sincere condolences go out to the entire Mills family on the passing of Mike Mills.

Read more

The garden continues to do well despite limited rain. We have watered it at night as it is quite dry. The beans are recovering from their haircut by Betty the hen and hopefully we’ll have some. The squash plants have quickly doubled in size and hopefully we’ll have plenty of those as well. My Instant Pot is ready for processing. I’m waiting on cucumbers as my lettuce is ready. It was excellent in my sandwich as well as salads. I’ll have to add this to the seed list again for next year.

I took a break from baking and stopped at Mandy B’s Bakery and picked up some cinnamon buns which were excellent. It is hard to get motivated to bake in the warm weather. I did make some hard boiled eggs and have them pickling as this was a request from the boys. My hens are laying at least a dozen eggs a day right now. We had egg salad sandwiches as well as potato salad which are a perfect summer supper. The Instant Pot makes the peeling process so much easier. If only I had known this years ago. Steaming is the best way to make hard boiled eggs and have them easily peel.

I have been enjoying the pool after blowing up some new chair floats. The temperature has been perfect; even adding water as the level had dropped did not cool it down too much.

A little bit of hay was done on Saturday and Sunday we made the trip to Mercer to pick up our bull River who had been hanging out at a turkey farm. I was disappointed that the bakery was closed but so happy for Blake, the main baker, as she got engaged. We’ll definitely have to make a trip over again to grab some donuts or whatever other goodies she has whipped up.

The Comprehensive Plan Committee met on Monday and great progress is being made. The next chapter is Agriculture and Foresty which are quite limited in this area now compared to what they used to be.

The Planning Board continues to look for an alternate member. If you are interested, please contact the Town Office.

A big thank you to Heather Vail who keeps our planters and hanging baskets at the Town Office looking spectacular. The colors this year are beautiful.

All day Tuesday it looked like rain and I waited for thunderstorms and rain which I never saw. There was some light rumbling in the evening but unless I slept through it, the weather reports were extremely wrong for this area, but that is nothing new. It did however rain Wednesday morning. I was out for a run and it started to sprinkle but the sky didn’t look any different than it did 24 hours before so I kept going. The drops increased and I looked up at the sky laughed and told Mother Nature to “Bring it on!” Well, she did and I was a mile away. I still laughed and picked up my pace heading home. I got wet but wasn’t soaked and it was still a great start to the day.

Send me your news to newrynews24@gmail.com and I’ll add it to my column. Have a great week and stay cool.

These summer days sure are beautiful! I have been out and about these last couple of weeks and will share my pics of my adventures of being with my friends and neighbors. I hope you will consider sending me some pics and captions of what you have been up to this summer. In the family, I did send happy birthday wishes to my granddaughter Elizabeth’s cat.

Do any of you have a special pet? Amy Chapman joined our Tuesday morning walk at Buck’s Ledge Trail for All with her black Lab puppy, Lena. She was on a leash and very well behaved (Lena, not Amy…just a little joke). Amy was joining some of her family members whom you might recognize in the pics. Ed Rosenberg, a trail enthusiast and historian of the area, frequently regales us with interesting stories of people and nature in the area.

I recently attended one of the Andover Summer Concerts. Normally they are held outdoors at the Gazebo on the Common but this time they held it in the iconic Andover Congregational Church. The church was full and everyone was encouraged to sing along. The Andover folks and visitors were enthusiastic participants, singing easily remembered tunes from the 60s, 70s, and 80s! My friends and I did share delicious fried haddock, clams and scallops at Mills’ Market beforehand and then stopped at Katy’s Cones before heading home. My friends had never been to Andover so it was fun to introduce them to this beautiful and serene setting.

I hope you are enjoying your own garden or the ones dotted around your area towns. I spied volunteers Moriah McDonough and Bob Elliott beautifying Bethel last Sunday afternoon. Moriah watered thirsty plants while Bob picked up rocks that were strewn on the sidewalk. Thank you to all the folks who volunteer to make our world a better place in which to live and thrive.

Please do check out the AFCI July Events Handout that was published here last week. I hope to see you around!

Melinda Remington

AFCI Community Connector

A shuttle from the hotel where we would spend that night met us with a sign saying GLINES. We piled in, and finally arrived. We survived the night, and had a lovely breakfast on the top floor, where the Acropolis stood in the distance. A mini-bus took us to the port. When I saw the size of it, and then looked at all of us, plus a good amount of large luggage, I seriously questioned how it was going to happen. Miraculously, it did happen, though it was like being in a clown car! Next move was boarding the Norwegian Pearl.

We made it onto the ship, and then a bit later, to our rooms. I think we all slept pretty well that night.

We left the port of Piraeus, and arrived in Santorini the next day. The weather for the week was quite hot, and it seemed to be the hottest on that first full day. We headed out on an excursion, which involved taking a tender to the pier, and then a larger boat to Santorini. Santorini is the result of a volcanic explosion, and we were sailing in the crater.

It was all uphill, of course. Walking was not easy; uneven ground and sidewalks, slanted steps, and narrow passageways. Add to that the extreme heat, and the pressure of trying to keep up with a group. Needless to say, a cold beverage or two was enjoyed during the trek. I am very happy to say that my “new” knees held up very well!

With so many of us traveling together, we were not all together on outside excursions. Often there were groups of four or five, who chose to do something specific. Those of us who walked around in Santorini were pretty wiped by the time we got back. The heat really does make it tough. We took water with us when we were out and about—an absolute necessity.

Our next day was Olympia (Katakolon). Some of us had no excursion planned, so we took a walk into a shopping area. It was busy, but there was no hurry. There were gelato shops on nearly every corner, so we took advantage of the opportunity to sit down and cool off a bit.

While on the ship, there was a group that made it to many trivia contests, karaoke, and other things happening. There were 80s dances, contests, and game shows.

On to Corfu—after watching The Durrells of Corfu, I was eager to see these views. It did not disappoint.

We went on a tour which stopped at a place where we sampled kumquat liqueur, cookies, and other goodies. They sold a variety of foods made of kumquats, as well as olive oil, and olive oil soap. We continued on to a restaurant (where we had this amazing view) and sampled traditional Greek foods, such as olives, yogurt, cheeses, and bread. It was there that I had the misfortune to lock myself in the WC. The lock was on the handle, and it was unlike any I’d ever seen. When I tried to unlock it, the door wouldn’t open, no matter which way I turned it. I then did what anyone would have done—I knocked on the door, and said “Help!” I didn’t shout, but did want to be heard. Fortunately, my niece Brenda and her daughter Maddie were very close by, and came to my assistance. After a few turns and pulls, I was free! If you know my sister, then you know it was good for some laughs!

We took the day off while in Dubrovnik. I later found out that there were nearby locations that were used in Game of Thrones, like King’s Landing and the Walk of Shame.

Friday evening on the ship, we had a special event planned. My nephew Brian turns 60 this week, and what better way to celebrate than on a cruise! We sat at three tables in the main dining room, all wearing our Hawaiian shirts (Brian has many of these shirts, so we all honored him by wearing one!), and waiting for him to arrive with his parents, Mike and Penny. When he appeared in the entrance, we burst into song with “Happy Birthday.” Then we all held up our sticks that had his face on it. It was a hilarious moment!

He took it well, and when the waiters brought his cake to him, “Happy Birthday” was sung again. One waiter took a photo and held it to his own face, and had quite a good time doing that!

Saturday put us in Koper, Slovenia. Several of us did a tour that day that took us to a wine fountain, and different locations where we could sample a variety of wines and foods for a small price.

On this day, Sarah and Colin left the ship and met up with Colin’s son, Gareth. Gareth left in January of this year, traveling to Bulgaria first. He has worked and traveled and had amazing adventures. Because we were “in the area,” they made arrangements to meet up for the day. They had a wonderful visit, and it was very hard to say good-bye that evening. Colin’s other son, Carrick, is currently on tour in Europe with American singer-rapper, Audrey Nuna. The two brothers have plans to meet up in Czechoslovakia in July.

On Sunday we began the long journey home. A bus took us from the ship to Marco Polo airport in Venice—nearly a three-hour ride. We had hours at the airport to wait, but the gate wasn’t posted until nearly time to board, so that was frustrating. Iceland Air was no frills, so if you wanted a meal, you had to purchase it. Coffee, water, and pillows—that was all that was offered. Brief stop in Reykjavik to change planes, then finally on to Boston. I got home around 2 am.

Everyone had an incredible time, and made memories to last a lifetime.

Here are some upcoming events:

A Greenwood Historical Society program on Wednesday, August 5, at 7:00 pm, at the Legion Hall in Locke Mills will be a panel of some of Greenwood’s oldest residents telling stories about “How life used to be” from people who grew up in Greenwood. It will be a great chance for new residents to learn “how it used to be.”

The Greenwood Historical Society Museums are open on Saturday mornings, from 10:00-1:00, July 18 through August 29.

Plans will soon be finalized for the annual Book/Craft/Bake Contest Event at the Whitman Library in Bryant Pond on August 15th, so stay tuned for further info.

If you have zany news or events to share, please send them to: lalalindastowell@gmail.com

The maps I’ve seen show the smoke that has made its way to Maine as “light,” but it’s been enough to turn the sun red in the late afternoon and evening (when I could actually see the sun through the smoke and clouds). However, the color-coded maps show the smoke in Connecticut, where I grew up and where my brother Andy still lives, as “very heavy,” with unhealthy air quality.

Harry Orcutt and Susan Vacca of Greenwood celebrated their 50^th anniversary on the Fourth of July, America’s 250^th birthday, which means that they were married on the day of the nation’s Bicentennial. They celebrated in grand style, by riding up Main Street in Bethel in an open Jeep in the Fourth of July parade, dressed in their Revolutionary War costumes.

Tony and I attended the Greenwood Historical Society program, “Greenwood 101,” last week and very much enjoyed Andrew Wheeler’s informative presentation. We also appreciated the air conditioning in the Legion Hall!

With the passing of Beth Brough on July 11, our town has lost the holder of its Boston Post cane, and I have lost a dear friend. All of the words I can think of to describe Beth fall far short of conveying what an absolutely magnificent, loving, generous, and joyous person she was. I can only say that I will miss her so much, and I will always count myself blessed to have known her. Perhaps more than anyone I have ever known, Beth embodied the advice that if you love someone, you should let them know. There will be a service to celebrate her wonderful life at the West Parish Congregational Church in Bethel on Saturday, July 25, at 11 a.m. I love you, Beth.

Here are some upcoming events you may want to attend:

Saturday, July 18, and every Saturday through August 29, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.: Open House at the Greenwood Historical Society museums on Main Street in Locke’s Mills. Stop by to visit and see the exhibits!

Monday, July 20, at 6:00 p.m. at the West Paris Historical Society, 221 Main Street in West Paris: “The Poland Spring Resort; Its Stories, Guests, and Facilities.” Guest speaker Laura Brown from the Poland Spring Museums will tell stories about the facilities and its guests. Poland Spring Resort has a legendary place in the history of Maine dating back to 1794. A 5,000-acre resort attracted vacationers who were the economic and social elite of the country. The Ricker family purchased the Maine State Building of the 1893 Columbian Exposition, dismantled it, and rebuilt it at Poland Spring. Other features are the golf course, the Chapel, and of course the bottling plant. Light refreshments will be served. Parking available behind the West Paris Library.

Wednesday, August 5, at 7 p.m. at the Locke’s Mills Legion Hall, Greenwood Historical Society program, “How it used to be,” will feature a panel of some of Greenwood’s oldest residents telling stories about “how life used to be in Greenwood.” It will be a great chance for newer residents to learn how life used to be here in our community.

Friday and Saturday, August 7 and 8, on the lawn of the Bethel Library: Annual Used Book Sale. The sale begins at noon on Friday and continues all day on Saturday. This much-anticipated event will take place rain or shine. For more information, call 207-824-2520.

Saturday, August 8, is Molly Ockett Day in Bethel, beginning with the parade at 10:30 a.m., continuing all day with kids’ activities, food, vendors, and entertainment on the Common, and culminating in fireworks at 9 p.m. You can find the full schedule of events on the Bethel Area Business Association Facebook page, as well as the first two weekly clues for the Molly Ockett Day Medallion Hunt.

Here’s a memory from Molly Ockett Day in 2016, when the Greenwood Historical Society booth offered delicious baked goods made with recipes from some of Greenwood’s best cooks—Diddy Johnson’s blueberry cake, Phyllis Coolidge’s raisin cookies, Elsie Bennett’s molasses crinkles, and Gram Nellie Martin’s toffee squares.

Saturday, August 15, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the West Paris Historical Society, 221 Main Street in West Paris: Indoor Yard Sale. Items include books, home decor, dishes, tools, games, and other treasures! Proceeds benefit the West Paris Historical Society. Parking available behind the West Paris Library.

Saturday, August 15, at 6:30 p.m. at the West Paris Library: Amy Wight Chapman (hey, that’s me!) will read from and discuss her family memoir. Published by the Museums of the Bethel Historical Society, Just Like Glass is the story of an indomitable family and how a strong matriarch, the stillness of a small pond in western Maine, and one unexpected addition set them on a path to healing from tragedy and redefining themselves as a family unit.

Pupdate: Lena has had a busy week! On Saturday, Tony and I took her for a short hike on the Chapman Brook Trail, where she got to play in the brook a bit as well as hike. She behaved very well on the “out” part of our out-and-back hike, but as soon as we turned around, she was up to her old tricks, jumping on us, grabbing our clothing in her teeth, and refusing to make any forward progress whatsoever.

This has been a persistent problem since she was less than three months old, although, thankfully, it’s happening much less often now and usually only lasts for a couple of minutes. I used to be able to just pick her up and carry her for a short distance, until she got over it, but now that she’s over five months and weighs close to 40 pounds, that’s no longer an option.

Since the behavior only seems to occur when we turn around to retrace our steps, we decided that maybe the solution was to find loop trails to walk with her. On Sunday, we went back to the same trailhead on the North Road, but instead of the Chapman Brook Trail, we walked the Esker Loop, across the road…and it worked! She was pretty much a model puppy for the whole hike; I was so busy marveling that my clothes weren’t being shredded that I forgot to take a single photo.

Monday was playdate with Puck day, and both dogs wore themselves out with an hour of chase games, in and out of the lake. Puck seems to have decided that Lena is big enough now to handle somewhat rougher play, so there was a lot of wrestling involved. Five minutes after Puck left, Lena was sound asleep on the couch.

On Tuesday morning, Lena and I met my sister-in-law Louise and niece Alison at the Buck’s Ledge Community Forest and joined a group who regularly walk the Trail for All on Tuesday mornings, part of the Western Maine Hikes for All Ages program started by Sue Radway. There were eight humans on the walk, and Lena, who needs a lot more socialization than we’ve exposed her to so far (mainly because we’re pretty sure other people won’t take kindly to having their clothes shredded) behaved much better than I would have predicted. Once she had greeted everyone (somewhat boisterously) she was more interested in chasing bugs and sniffing her way along the trail than in jumping on them. Life with Lena is finally beginning to get a little easier!

I picked the first of this year’s wild highbush blueberries at camp on Monday morning, and made a batch of blueberry muffins. My family has been picking berries from those bushes, which grow close to the pond, since 1955!

This online newsletter is intended to keep our communities informed, so if you have news, events, or photos you’d like to have included here, I hope you’ll share them with me! You can reach me by email at amy.w.chapman@gmail.com or by phone or text at 207-890-4812.

“You’ll never regret eating blueberries or working up a sweat.” — Jacquelyn Mitchard

For events in Bethel this Saturday, July 18, on Main Street in Bethel is the Summer Market on the front lawn of the Methodist Church with an indoor yard sale set up in the dining room of the c…

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Not a lot going on. There are a few of the usual birds that come for breakfast every day. The little chipmunks keep busy cleaning up leftovers and storing them for next winter. I have not seen any skunks for a long time, but there was…

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July is moving right on and summer right along with it, sprinkled with fun events in town and nearby. On Saturday, July 18, come out and enjoy another Saturday Market at the Bethel Methodist Church from…

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Andover News

Diana Nadeau

Please forgive my somewhat abbreviated column this week. I was away Monday and Tuesday in Portland with my husband while he underwent a minor heart procedure.

Well, the heatwave has broken, thank goodness. The combination of the heat and humidity really takes a toll. I feel for the folks that have to work outside in those conditions. I passed one of the hot days by going to see the Minion movie (I love those little yellow guys!) and having lunch with my friend Tammy.

My poor dog, Bocephus, doesn’t understand why he can’t play ball hour after hour outside. I tried to get out early with him to play, but a few days it was already in the 70s and humid.

I usually spend hot days on the river behind my house; most summers there is a nice beach there. Well, this year there was a little erosion of the river bank and quite a steep bank has appeared. I’ll have to take the time to find another way in.

I hope everyone had a great Fourth of July. We grilled ribs and had pasta and potato salad along with chocolate cake with peanut butter frosting for dessert for a belated birthday for the hubs. We were 8 people in all and it was nice to eat good food and enjoy great company.

It seems like all the festivities held for the holiday were well attended all around.

Now here is some wonderful news about two of our amazing Andover citizens:

Couple Receives LakeSmart Award

Ross and Christine Swain of East Andover recently earned the LakeSmart Award for landscaping their Roxbury Pond property in a way to do their share to protect the water quality of the pond.

To quote a sound bite from a video by the non-profit organization Maine Lakes, “LakeSmart is a program to work with homeowners. It’s no cost, non regulatory, and completely voluntary, and we work with homeowners to reduce stormwater runoff off their property in the hopes of reducing the amount of phosphorus that enters Maine lakes.”

Phosphorus is found naturally in runoff and erosion and is a major contributor to increasing the risk of algae blooms. Ross and Christine are both longtime members of the non-profit organization Lake Stewards of Maine. According to their website, “Lake Stewards of Maine (LSM) works to protect Maine lakes and to promote lake stewardship through widespread citizen participation in the gathering and dissemination of credible scientific information pertaining to lake health.”

When asked for a comment, Ross said, “Let me write something out for you.” Here it is:

“The recognition from Maine Lakes of our attempts at lake friendly landscaping is appreciated. My hope is that by sharing our news, more campowners will become interested in the LakeSmart program. If anyone wants to see the LakeSmart report on our property, I’m willing to share it to help people understand what this exceptional opportunity provides at no cost. It’s voluntary, free, non-regulatory, educational, and details are not shared without your permission. What’s not to like?”

Congratulations, Ross and Christine! For more info on LakeSmart, go to https://www.lakes.me/lakesmart

Here is the latest schedule of AOHD. Hard to believe that it will be here in a few weeks!

2026 Andover Olde Home Days Schedule-July 31 & August 1

Friday, July 31

3-9PM: Food Trucks, Town Common

4:30-6:30PM: Live Music with Brad Hooper, Town Common

5-6PM: Pie Eating Contest Registration, Town Common

6:30-7PM: Pie Eating Contest, Town Common

7-9PM: Live Music with James Rice, Town Common

Saturday, August 1

7:30AM-4PM: Public Parking, Grimaldi Field

7:30AM-4:30PM: Complimentary Shuttle Services to Town Common, Grimaldi Field

7-7:45AM: Road Race Registration, Andover Elementary School

8AM: Road Race Begins, Andover Elementary School

8AM: Cookie Walk, Andover Congregational Church

8AM: Registration for Mountain Misfits Highland Games, Grimaldi Field

9AM: Backseat Sulky Driver Contest Registration, Tennis Court

9AM: Parade Lineup Starts, Whites Field

9:30AM: Parade Judging, Whites Field

9AM: Highland Games, Grimaldi Field

9AM: Antique, Classic and Hot Rod Cruise-In, Akers Field

9AM-12PM: Photograph Contest and Exhibition, Andover Town Hall

9AM-3PM: Flower Show, Andover Historical Society

10AM: Parade Starts, Whites Field

11AM-1PM: Children’s Games and Activities, Ball Field

11AM-1PM: Backseat Sulky Driver Contest, Tennis Court

11AM-3PM: Art Show, Andover Historical Society

11AM-4PM: Wooden Foundry Patterns Display, Library Community Room

11AM: Fly Casting Contest, Morse Field

11AM: Antique Tractor Pull, Grimaldi Field

11:30AM: Chicken BBQ, Fire Station

11AM: Women’s Skillet Toss Registration, Field Next to Mills Market

11:30AM: Women’s Skillet Toss, Field Next to Mills Market

11AM-4PM: Book Sale and Basket Raffle, Andover Public Library

12-3PM: Cornhole Tournament, Field Next to Mills Market

1PM: First Button Drawing, Gazebo on the Town Common

1-2PM: Sing-Along, Andover Congregational Church

2PM: Andover Service Circle Raffle, Town Common

2:30PM: Second Button Drawing | Grand Prize, Gazebo on the Town Common

3PM: Ellis River Riders Gymkhana Show, Airport Road

3:30PM: 50/50 Drawing with Service Circle, Town Common

4PM: Mowta Speedway Lawnmower Races, Grimaldi Field

6:30-9:30PM: Town Dance, Lone Mountain Campground

Now here is some news about the upcoming concert from the Andover Summer Concert Series:

BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND!! Friday, July 10th from 6 to 8 pm we’ll welcome back to the stage at the Andover Congregational Church...BARNEY MARTIN! Barney has entertained us for the past few years and NEVER fails to get everyone singing along! What a great show he puts on, well... you put on...’cause he’ll get you to do half the work...and it is AWESOME! If you haven’t been yet to Barney’s show...you gotta come out on Friday, July 10, to the Andover Congregational Church, adjacent to the Intersection of Rt 5 and Rt 120 in sunny Andover, Maine! Concert starts at 6 pm. I’m hoping Bob will feel up to going so we can attend. I have seen Barney perform in the past and he does indeed put on a great show.

Please send any new or events to diananadeau@ymail.com

Bethel News

Linda Howe

The Fourth of July weekend in Bethel was a busy one! Lots of folks visiting the area and roaming around Town. The Fourth of July parade was a good start bringing back a holiday parade to Main Street in Bethel. River Lanes had an awesome float. Very patriotic and well done. A parade would not be a parade without marching music provided by the Mahoosuc Community Band. Always a job well done by this community group. The next parade on Main Street in Bethel will take place on Saturday, August 8th on Molly Ockett Day!

Upcoming next week on Tuesday, July 14, from 4:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. is Neighbors Feeding Neighbors at the Methodist Church on Main Street in Bethel. The grill is coming out and hot dogs and hamburgers, side dishes and dessert will be on the menu. There is no charge for the meal. Food magically appears and everyone shares what they bring. Part of this event is focused on our local food pantry. A box is set out so folks can bring nonperishable items to the church and the donated items are delivered to the food pantry on Wednesday morning. Also at Neighbors Feeding Neighbors is a featured community group. The July event will feature the Bethel Recreational Committee. This will give community members an opportunity to learn more about this organization and what they provide in our town. Come out and meet your neighbors and have a wonderful “suppah.” Everyone is welcome!

On Saturday, July 18, there are two events taking place on Main Street in Bethel. From 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. is Saturday Market on Main Street at the Methodist Church. Local crafters and artisans will be set up on the front lawn. Inside the dining room the church will be having its yard sale. All are welcome to attend.

The second event will take place on lower Main Street at the Philbrook Place from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Randall H. Bennett will be doing a book signing of his White Mountain history books. Also available are copies of Stan Howe’s book, Bethel Maine: A Brief History. Books will be selling for $20 plus tax. Meeting an author is a rare opportunity. All are welcome and Randy would love to meet you!

On Friday mornings at 8:00, beginning on July 24, TJ Farnum will offer a guided breathwork session at the Methodist Church Community Annex. See the details in the flyer below.

What a wonderful time out at Morning Glory Farm for the Bethel Senior Citizens Club. The hospitality was first class and very accommodating. The meeting started at 11 a.m. with reports, updates, and new events.

Guest speaker was Will Chapman, Executive Director of the Bethel Historical Society. His talk consisted of history from the past in our area. Really interesting information. We also learned of programs/events happening at our local Historical Society. They are very active! Learn more from their website, bethelhistorical.org

The Seniors also participated in a Sing Along. Many Patriotic songs were sung. God was given reference in many of the songs! The meal of homemade, wood-fired oven pizza was fabulous. It melted in your mouth. Great meal with dessert being cake and ice cream. Great time for our local Senior Citizens.

Please send news and events to lhowe7273@gmail./com

East Bethel News

Wally Ritz

I hope you all made it through that heat wave alright. It was nice to see so many folks come out for the parade despite the heat. The Saturday Market was well attended also and mark your calendars for the next one on July 18th.

The Locke Mills Union Church also got help and received a kitchen stove from JC Styles. Keep in mind the upcoming Public Spaghetti Supper there on July 15th from 4:30 till 6:30.

On July 14th is also the next Neighbors feeding Neighbors from 4:30 till 6:30. Planned is an old fashioned cookout with burgers (also veggie burgers), hot dogs, and various sides. Activities are in the works for the kids and bring non-perishables to donate. It will be fun for all ages again. How great is this, two days in a row when you can get out to eat and not to heat up your own kitchen. Come on out and enjoy our giving community.

Tonya and John Lewis celebrated their 16th Anniversary on July 5th. Happy Belated Anniversary to this lovely couple from the whole neighborhood.

Lucas Malley, son of Hannah and Todd, celebrated his birthday on July 5th. Happy Belated Birthday from the whole neighborhood, Lucas. We always love seeing you at Dunkin.

Call or text me at 207-595-0691 or email heinrichcracker@gmail,com. You can also find me on Facebook and reply to my weekly post there also.

Have a great week and a little reminder, be happy and keep smiling!

Gilead News

Lin Chapman

Even though the temperature is in the 80’s today (Monday), it is a lot better than the 90 degrees heatwave of last week. Hopefully, everyone had a nice safe July 4^th holiday. The weather was good for the parades and the fireworks.

Our son, Chris Chapman, who works for Wreaths Across America, travels for all sorts of events. He lives in Virginia so a lot of them happen in Washington, DC. This past weekend, Wreaths Across America and Wreaths Across America Radio had the chance to set up at the Great American State Fair at the National Mall in DC and represent the great State of Maine. He met people from about every state and several countries that were in DC for the 4^th. There were thousands of people who braved the heat to attend. He said that he had a blast promoting what the Pine Tree State has to offer.

Gilead Historical Society

On the 4^th, the Museums of the Bethel Historical Society hosted a 250^th anniversary celebration, which included a concert by the Portland Brass Quintet, a parade and a few booths. Pete and Claudia Risbara and Hugh Chapman represented the Gilead Historical Society, and of course, Pierre, went with them.

A bit of history from a GHS publication: “School Days, A Brief History of the Many School Houses of Gilead, Maine~ One Room, a Wood Stove and Two Privies ~” Howard Reiche, Jr., Hugh Chapman

Emeline Heath, whose father kept a farm on the North Rd., wrote these memories below of attending school during World War One. (1914-1918):

There were six schools in Gilead to which the students walked. They had no grades and no required course of study. In summer, attendance was chiefly girls and little boys, for the big boys were needed on the farms. Those who wanted more education and had the means often attended Gould Academy, in Bethel, either boarding in private homes or renting rooms and “boarding themselves” with the help of food from home. My Aunt Ida attended Gould Academy and taught school a little while before her marriage and my father and some other young men from Gilead attended one or more winters about which I always like to hear the stories.

When I first began attending school during World War One, we had a shorter school year with a long winter vacation. After the community Christmas program, things were pretty quiet until about the last week of March. The children who lived in the village had a more exciting life, sliding on the hill, skating on the frog pond, building ski jumps, and so on. I never thought the winter would come to an end.

My Aunt Alma, who lived with us, did much to make my life happy. She would read to me and tell me about her own childhood. We would play games like “Flinch,” dominoes, and tiddley-winks and I would cut pictures out of old copies of a magazine called “Delineator.” She let me write with her fountain pen in a copybook until I did well enough to write a letter to another aunt. Also, I learned to knit.

Got any news? Email chapmal@hotmail.com

AFCI News

Melinda Remington

July 2026 Events of Interest to Older Folks and their Families

Dear Readers,

Please consider joining in on any of these events and activities. Bring a friend or family member.

If you have any questions or suggestions please reach out to me at melindaremington@yahoo.com

Also, you may have a poem, story or pic you might like to share in this column.

Recurring Weekly or Monthly Events:

Western Maine Hikes for All Ages (walks and hikes throughout our region, for a variety of ability levels, ages, a different trail 5 days a week) An updated schedule is posted each week on the Bethel Outing Club Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/betheloutingclub/ Also look there for any weather updates or cancellations.

Davis Park walk is on Mondays 9:30-10:30 am.

Buck’s Ledge ‘Trail for All’ walk is Tuesdays 9:00-10:00 am. Both trails are easy, handicapped-accessible; scenic with benches and/or picnic tables. Valentine Park is an easy walk and is on Thursday afternoons 1:00-2:00pm. Be sure to check out the gardens!!! (Free, All ages)

Games On! Thursdays (July 2,9,16,23, 30) 12:00-2:00 P.M. Whitman Memorial Library, 28 S. Main St., Bryant Pond (Free, Age 60+, sponsored by AFCI & Library) A good time playing games, puzzles, conversations, snacks.

Coffee and Conversation, Thursdays (July2,9,16,23,30) 9:00 A.M.-12:00 P.M., Bethel Alliance Church, 251 Walkers Mills Rd/Rt 26, (Free, All Ages, sponsored by the church) Welcoming group, coffee, donuts, smiles, and conversation

Village Makers Tuesdays (July 7,14,21,28) 5:30-7:30 P.M. (Free, All Ages) Bring your favorite craft to work on while you socialize and meet your neighbors. Learn a new craft. Whitman Memorial Library, Bryant Pond

Seniors’ Social Time at Bethel Library Tuesdays (July 7,14,21,28)12:00-1:00 P.M. (Free, 50+, sponsored by the library)

Rosie’s Boots & Beats Line Dance Classes, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 6:00-7:30 pm. Tuesdays at the Bethel United Methodist Church Community Annex, Main St., Bethel, Thursdays at the Locke Mills Union Church, Rt 26, Locke Mills, (All ages, $5 cash per session)

July 2-August 29. Connected by a Thread: 250 Years of Stitching Community Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays 1:00-4:00 P.M. Museums of the Bethel Historical Society, Moses Mason House Howe Exhibit Hall, 14 Broad St., Bethel. (All Ages, donations, members free.) Read more about this outstanding exhibit at Museums of the Bethel Historical Society https://bethelhistorical.org/exhibits

Gilead Historical Society Buildings Tours, each Saturday,12:00-3:00pm. Coffee and snacks available. (Donations welcome, All Ages). Rt 2, Gilead

Tech Help at Bethel Library 1st Monday of each Month, 11:00am-1:00pm, (Free, All Ages)

July 7, Music Without Borders, International Piano Festival, 20^th season. Opening recital is Tuesday July 7^th, 7:00 P.M. Recitals are held every Tues., Wed., Fri., and Sat. July 7^th through July 25 (Free) Performed in air-conditioned the McLaughlin Science Center Auditorium on the Gould Academy campus.

Public recitals of classical music spanning more than two centuries, performed by some of the most promising young pianists from U.S. and around the world. Instructed by distinguished pianist and master teacher, Tamara Poddubnaya. Free. No reservations needed, but seating is limited.

July 8, 2^nd Wednesday of month,11:00 A.M.-1:00 P.M. Bethel Senior Citizens Club Meeting/ Lunch at Morning Glory Farm 343 Flat Rd., W. Bethel. (Age 50+) Pizza, cake & ice cream, lemonade provided courtesy of the farm and club. Speaker is Will Chapman, Executive Director, Museums of the BHS.

Please Bring Lawn Chairs!!!!

July 10, Friday, 6:00-8:00pm Andover Summer Concert Series, featuring Barney Martin, popular master of fun sing-a-longs. Rain or shine in the Andover Congregational Church at intersection of RT 5&120, Andover (All Ages, Free, Donations accepted)

July 13, Monday, 1:30-3: 30P.M. Sharing Our Memories of Bryant Pond, Whitman Memorial Library in Bryant Pond. Bring your pictures and stories as we have fun reminiscing about people, places and events. (All ages, free)

July 14, 2^nd Tuesday of month, 4:30-6:30 P.M. Neighbors Feeding Neighbors, United Methodist Church, 75 Main St., Bethel. Bring a friend or the family. Menu: ‘Burgers & Dogs’ and desserts (Free, donation to Food Pantry, All Ages)

Weather permitting, there will be outdoor activities on the front lawn.

July 15, Public Spaghetti Supper, 4:30-6:30 Locke Mills Union Church, 286 Main St., (Rt 26) Greenwood. (All ages, Donations appreciated)

July 18, Saturday, 9:00am-1:00pm Saturday Market on Main Steet. Buy Crafts, food, and yard sale at Methodist Church Lawn, Main St., Bethel (All Ages)

July 25, Last Saturday of month, 6:00-8:00, The Fossils/ Music and Dance This is a fun intergenerational, 50’s-90’s rewind of your favorite songs. Local musicians and vocalists lead us down memory lane as we groove to the music. (Free, All Ages, donations suggested to support the Jackson Silver Post of the American Legion) 593 Gore Rd., Lock Mills

July 29, Last Wednesday of month, 4:30-6:00 P.M. Community Supper Hosted by Bethel Alliance Church, 251 Walkers Mills Rd/Rt 26. (Free, All Ages, Donations) Menu: Cheeseburger Macaroni Casserole, Garlic Bread, Green Tossed salad, Drinks & Desserts*Drive around to back of church to park, ‘To Go’ meals available.

Reminder: AFCI’s Neighbor2Neighbor volunteer program offers free rides within 30-mile radius of Bethel (ages 60+). We are always looking for volunteer drivers. Would you like to help your neighbors? This is an enjoyable service and a great way to meet folks. Call and leave a message to apply as a rider or a driver: 207-824-4444

For current information visit our Facebook Page. Please click Favorites at the top of our page, comment or message us at: www.facebook.com/agefriendlybethel/

***UPDATE: We are excited to share that the AFCI monthly list of events will now be available on-line in the Western Maine Neighborhood News (WMNN) publication. Each week go to the AFCI news to read more about healthy aging in our communities.

You may opt to buy a full subscription to receive news from all 7 area towns. However, you also have the option of receiving half the publication each week for free. (3 towns one week, 4 towns the next week)

Email Community Connector : melindaremington@yahoo.com

If you have missed reading your neighborhood news that used to be in the Bethel Citizen, then send me your email address and the free subscription will be sent to your mail inbox weekly from WMNN (on Thursdays).

Your same neighbors/writers are now writing for WMNN. They are not limited by column length and can submit numerous photos.

What is the Bethel Area Age-Friendly Community Initiative (AFCI)???

AFCI is a non-profit that helps local older adults remain in their homes as they age. Programs help older citizens (age 60+) to thrive physically, mentally and socially.

FREE PROGRAMS_

Neighbor2Neighbor Rides (N2N rides within 30 miles of Bethel for medical, shopping, social engagements)

HandyNeighbor (Spring and Fall yard & garden chores completed by high school students & supervisors)

Walk the Gym (November through April, Tuesdays and Thursdays ,1:00-2:00 P.M at Gould Academy)

‘Games-On’ (Thursdays, Noon -2:00P.M., at Whitman Memorial Library, Bryant Pond (Fun social time.)

Home Safety Assessment by certified O.T. (Personal safety & fall prevention)

Used Medical Equipment Lending Closet (Donations accepted. Canes, Walkers etc. (For All Ages.)

Alexa Echo Dot and Smart Plugs assistive technology to enhance safety in the home

AFCI receives support from Bethel-Gilead-Greenwood-Hanover-Newry-Woodstock

AFCI serves these 6 towns and the residents of Albany and Mason Townships

Board Members: President Julie Hart, Eileen Broderick, Katina Colombotos, Marilyn DiFillipo, Amy George, Moriah McDonough, Charlie Raymond, Charlie Reiss, Brie Weisman, Maryvonne Wheeler, Paula Wheeler

Community Connector: Melinda Remington

Email: melindaremington@yahoo.com

For more information call 207-824-4444.Leave name, phone number and a message. Someone will return your call.

Bethel Senior Citizens Club

More than 30 members of the Bethel Senior Citizens Club were hosted at their monthly meeting by the Morning Glory Farm in West Bethel.

After the meeting, and presentation of upcoming programs of the Museums of the Bethel Historical Society by Will Chapman, we enjoyed a variety of freshly cooked pizzas.

This was followed by singing, birthday wishes, and ice cream and cake.

Many folks won raffled items. Thank you to the generous donors of these unique and delightful gifts. Christine Trefethen then offered a tour of the farm that she operates along with Eric List. All agreed it was a beautiful day to enjoy each other’s company while in the midst of beautiful scenery. Older folks in our community were truly honored. Thank you to Morning Glory Farm crew.

Locke’s Mills News

Amy Wight Chapman

What a great Fourth of July celebration we had at the Museums of the Bethel Historical Society! The traditional picnic and concert by the Portland Brass Quintet was expanded this year to include a parade up Main Street, a reading of the Declaration of Independence, kids’ games, information tables staffed by several other historical organizations, a music jam, and hot dogs! We weren’t sure how the hot dog sales would go, but we sold out of over 100 hot dogs in a couple of hours, and people really seemed to enjoy the addition of a traditional Fourth of July picnic favorite.

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