Our group then headed to the church looking forward to a few hours of entertainment by Mr. Breau and he certainly didn’t disappoint. We were treated with some of his original songs that he had written. Amy and I had tears in our eyes after hearing “Holding my Daughter’s Daughter” written after holding his first granddaughter. And thankfully he played the “Nine Pound Hammer” as I had asked for by special request for my dear sweet dad. I think he had the biggest grin in the crowd while Denny played it.

The last show in the Andover Summer Concert Series will be the Acoustipalians on September 4th on the Andover Common. I hope that the weather will be perfect for the wrap-up to the season. The concert starts at 6 pm and is free, as always with donations gladly accepted. All the generous donations will make sure that this tradition continues. Thanks to Pete Coolidge and those behind the scenes for the hard work all these years to bring these amazing performers to Andover.

This past week saw a handful of folks putting in a few days of work on the town tennis court. Thanks to Dirk, Bruce, KJ, Bill, and Mary, the court has been sealed and new lines for pickleball have been painted. The court is closed through tonight to let everything cure and dry thoroughly. Great job one and all! It does indeed take a village. A good source of information about things like this is the Andover Recreation Committee Facebook page.

On Saturday morning I attended the celebration of life for Mike Mills, who had recently passed, at the Andover Town Hall. The Hall was packed with people gathering to share memories and tributes to Mike. Continued prayers and thoughts go out to the Mills family.

It is back to school time, please be on the lookout for students getting to and from school. MSAD #44 and the Andover Elementary School started yesterday, the 26th. I’m sure that students and staff alike are asking where the summer went. I want to wish all of my dear school friends a great school year. It does seem a bit unusual still after my 23-year school career that I am not gearing up to go back. I am sure that Linda Stowell understands this as well. I always looked forward to “music day” so I could see Linda...those were certainly the days!

On Saturday I spent the day with my Ya Ya friends. It ended up not being a very good “float” day but we did have Captain Toby give us all a nice leisurely pontoon boat ride around the pond.

As always we laughed and ate very well, we certainly didn’t go home hungry! Thanks to all my dear friends, Tracy, Stacy, Steph, Amy, and Tammy for a fantastic day.

Here are a couple notices from the Andover Town Office:

The Town of Andover is conducting its yearly assessing of new and existing properties over the next few weeks. Please be advised that the following employees of John E. O’Donnell & Associates have permission from the Town of Andover to assess properties in town as needed. Please call the Andover Town Office at 207-392-3302 if you have any questions or concerns. You may also call O’Donnell & Associates at 207-926-4044. Thank you for your cooperation. The table below lists each field agent, their vehicle registration, and a description of their vehicle.

Also, the Selectboard is seeking the names of Andover residents interested in filling an unanticipated Andover School Board vacancy as of August 5. The appointment is for the remainder of the term for Michelle York, who recently resigned. Those interested in the position should call the Andover School for more details such as length of term, when and where the board meets, rate of pay, and requirements of the position. Interested person(s) will submit their name and contact to the Town Office or email it to secretary@andovermaine.gov on or before September 1, 2026 at noon. The Selectboard will consider all candidates at their September 1 meeting and, if there are applicants, vote to fill the vacancy, with the appointment effective immediately following the appointment.

Please send any news or events my way, and as always, faithful readers, have a great week. diananadeau@ymail.com

RIP Dolly

I also had a lovely getaway last weekend. I went to Ironbound Pond with my bff, Amy, to her mother’s camp in Solon. The weather was perfect, we ate well, laughed a lot, floated on the pond and played games. All in all a much needed fun getaway.

Amy is coming back up here this weekend to go along with my husband, Bob, my dad, Ken, and myself to see Denny Breau at the Andover Congregational Church on Friday. This is the next concert in the Andover Summer Concert Series. The time is from 6-8 and promises to be a wonderful evening of entertainment. Concerts are free but donations to keep this summertime tradition going are gladly accepted.

Then on Saturday we are going to our friend Tracy’s camp along with all the other members of our Ya Ya group to have a visit. Floating on North Pond and variety of potluck items are on the agenda. One last hooooorah before Amy goes back to work as a lunch lady for the school year.

How is it possible that the school year is already upon us? It has been a bit of a busy couple of weeks but things will slow down and revert back to firewood duties no doubt.

Dirk MacKnight is looking for volunteers to help topcoat the new courts in town. They will be applying 3 coats and painting lines when dried. The plan is to work Wednesday (already gone by before this column is sent out) but they still need people this Thursday and Friday beginning at 9:00. Unfortunately, they have to apply the coatings in the mornings to give it time to dry before nightfall. If you can help please message him on Facebook and let me know what day(s). This would be good for a student that needs to log some community service hours.

Mills Market is hiring a Breakfast Cook. Saturdays and Sundays 4 am-11 am with potential of full time. The store is looking for a reliable, dependable breakfast cook to join their crew. If you’re hardworking, dependable, can handle a busy morning, and want to be part of a great local team, they would certainly love to hear from you. Experience preferred, but the right attitude and work ethic mean just as much. Mills Market is such an asset to our little town. Always the gathering spot for the locals and those traveling through as well. They are truly the hardest working crew in town.

The Andover Elementary School will be holding an open house for the incoming Pre-K and Kindergarten students on Monday, August 24th. Please see the attached flyer.

Here is a timely word from the Andover PTA:

We need YOU! Our PTA needs more parents! Our PTA was created many years ago as a way to keep parents involved in our little school and, most importantly, to let our kids know that we are here supporting them every step of the way. The truth is, we have a very small group of parents who keep things going, and it takes all of us to keep our school the special place that it is. We put a LOT of time, love, and work into making things happen for the kids, and we want so badly to keep that going. But we simply can’t do it without more parents stepping in.

This is a bittersweet year for me and our PTA president because it will be our last year as our kids are moving on to junior high. We would love nothing more than to see some new parents come hang out with us, get involved, and carry this little tradition forward. PLEASE don’t think joining the PTA means you have to attend every meeting! We know life is busy. We know schedules are crazy. Helping at an event, donating your time, sharing an idea, volunteering when you can, or simply showing up for the kids is just as important. Every little bit makes a difference.

At the end of the day, we’re just a bunch of parents trying to make a difference. We want our kids to look around and see their parents cheering them on, supporting them, and being part of these important early years. So come hang out with us! Come meet other parents, help with an event, bring an idea, or just see what we’re all about. We have put so much heart into making this school year special for our kids, and we want the tradition to continue long after our kids move on. We need you. Our kids need you. And our little school needs you. Let’s make this year the best one yet—and make sure the PTA continues to be just as strong for the years to come! Come join us. Let’s do this together! ~ The Andover PTA

I was fortunate enough to work at the Andover Elementary School for 15 years and it genuinely is a special place, full of school spirit and a feeling of community. I believe that the first student day for AES is next Wednesday, the 26th.

Please send any news or events my way. diananadeau@ymail.com

I was able to attend the latest in the Andover Summer Concert Series featuring The Cobblestones. My husband and my friend Stacy were able to come along with me which made it all the more enjoyable. The common was packed with music lovers to take in this talented group. They also had a special guest joi…

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My friend Amy traveled up from Standish and took in all the events with me last weekend.

Friday evening the weather was absolutely perfect to take in the two music acts, Brad Hooper and James Rice, on the common. Lots of talent between those two gentlemen. In between those performers was the hilarious blueberry pie eating contest. The winner of that contest was Andover native Robin Palmer.

Saturday morning dawned bright and beautiful so we headed up early to get a good parking spot; if you wait they are hard to come by. Coffee and breakfast from Mills Market was first on the agenda, followed by a stroll on the common to check out all the vendors. Then a visit to the photography contest. I had one Honorable Mention on a picture from Ireland that I had entered. There were a lot of beautiful pictures this year. A big thanks to Chad and his crew to keep this tradition going.

Sharon Hutchins was the Parade Marshal this year. The parade entered town a bit after 10 am with Mr. Larry Costa’s assorted military equipment, area fire trucks and ambulances, a few horseback riders, atv’s, political candidates and floats. Quite a few participants were throwing candy much to the children’s delight. I may have snagged a Tootsie Roll or two myself.

We then strolled to the antique, classic, and hot rod car show. That is always a favorite of mine, and judging from the amount of people, it was a favorite of theirs too. The food trucks on and around the common made it very hard to choose what to have for lunch!

We stayed until the prize button drawings were complete, sitting comfortably in the shade with our camping chairs, then it was home to enjoy the ac and cool down.

Here are the winners of the 73rd annual flower show:

SINGLE SPECIMEN:

1st: Patty Flaherty

2nd: Claire Sessions

3rd: Sabrina Kurtz-Rossi

BROAD STRIPES BRIGHT STARS

1st: Sy Littlehale

2nd: Jan Peaslee

3rd: Sabrina Kurtz-Rossi

PURPLE MOUNTAINS MAJESTY

1st: Sy Littlehale

2nd: Jan Peaslee

3rd: Jordan Chase

AMBER WAVES OF GRAIN

1st: Sy Littlehale

2nd: Joan Faulkner

3rd: Joan Faulkner

HAPPY BIRTHDAY AMERICA

1st: Jeremy Bourque

2nd: Mark Lewis

3rd: Sy Littlehale

BEST IN SHOW

Sabrina Kurtz-Rossi

Judges Award

Sy Littlehale

The society had 11 participants and 25 arrangements, five more arrangements since the 2025 show.

The photography contest winners were: Overall Grand Prize/Best in show was Ice Cream Dog by Dawn Grondin. Most Creative/Unique-Angelo Kaltsos award was Daisies by Dawn Grondin. Top Honorable Mention was Black Blobs by Katie Chambers.

The winners of the floats in the parade were: 1st place Jeff Wardwell with Camping Through the Years and 2nd place was the Ellis Pond Sidekicks with their fun and funny beach themed float...congrats to all!

On Sunday, August 9, 2026 From 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM at the (Frye Cross Over Bridge Roxbury Maine) Roxbury Community Historical Society will be hosting a Bridge renaming / Dedication to “Roxbury / Frye Veterans Memorial Bridge.” The location is the Frye Cross Over Road Roxbury, Maine. Sounds like a wonderful event to attend and remember, just for a moment, those brave veterans and their service to our country.

The Andover Summer Concert Series continues this week with the Cobblestones performing this Friday evening August 7th at 6 pm on the Andover Common. These folks are always a crowd pleaser. Bring a lawn chair, a blanket or even a picnic and enjoy some music in the most beautiful location.

A reminder that the Town Office will be closed on August 10, due to elections at the Town Hall from 2 – 6 p.m. that day. The election is for the empty selectman’s seat.

Try and stay cool in the warm weather that is upon us and send any news or events my way. diananadeau@ymail.com

PS I was fortunate enough to meet another Western Maine Neighborhood News columnist Wally Ritz at AOHD. She was there with my friend Tracy’s mom Debbie. So nice to have seen you in person Wally!

I was finally able to attend one of the Summer Concert Series. This one featured Pete Coolidge accompani…

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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

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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

Being that the June 9 local election did not result in the third Selectboard seat being filled, as no nomination papers were taken out by prospective candidates and the write-in with the most votes is unable to serve at this time, the Selectboard voted …

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I hope all the wonderful dads had a great Father’s Day. Bob and I hosted my dad, our sons Brandon and Hunter, and also Hunter’s girlfriend Amanda. Burgers on the grill and homemade French fries were on the menu along with cobbler from The Southern Spoon in Bryant Pond—please check out her Facebook page. Everything is delicious and beautifully made! I purchased a strawberry rhubarb and mixed berry cobblers. They were a perfect way to top off the meal.

The 2026 moose lottery was held last weekend and alas my name wasn’t drawn. I did see a few familiar names on the list however. Good luck and safe hunting to all that were drawn.

I was very lucky to see a doe and her skipper on my trail camera a couple of weeks ago. There have been a few small bucks and a coyote also.

There are some wonderful happenings in town for our young residents and visitors alike. The Andover Volunteer Fire Department along with Jim Adler and the J.L. Adler Carpentry crew have pooled funds and donated time to build an awesome wooden playhouse in the village. It is a work in progress but, when finished, it will be a sight to behold. This is exactly why I love this town, amazing things like this happen here.

Another good thing is once again our Main Street, and other spots around town, are festooned with the American flags thanks to Per Tripp, the Andover Highway Department and other flag crew members. It looks picturesque.

Andover Olde Home Days seems like it will be here before you know it. Let me share a bit of info that I have so far:

Mark your calendars! Andover Olde Home Days kicks off Friday, July 31st, and there is plenty to look forward to right out of the gate. Friday evening on The Common runs 3–9 PM with food trucks, live music from Brad Hooper and James Rice, a local art show, and our first annual pie eating contest — open to all ages, with registration on the a common from 5–6 PM. Raffle buttons and Olde Home Days t-shirts will also be available for purchase on site.

In case you missed it, this year’s grand raffle prize was proudly donated by Clean Cut Painting, which includes two contractors for 10 hours each, plus up to $500 in materials, all put toward a project of your choosing. That’s a real, hands-on value worth $2,500.

Raffle buttons are available now at Mills’ Market, Pete’s Hardware, and Aroma Joe’s in Bethel, with drawings held at 1PM and 2:30PM on August 1 at the Gazebo.

And that’s just Friday. Saturday, August 1, brings another full day of community and fun! The full schedule is coming soon! Thanks go out to Claire for emailing me the info on the 73rd Annual Flower Show being held on Saturday August 1, 2026 at the Andover Historical Society Building. Celebrating the 250th Anniversary of America. Categories

1. Statue of Liberty - Single Specimen, bottles provided by AHS.

2. Broad Stripes Bright Stars - Arrangement in red, white or blue container.

3. Purple Mountains Majesty - Arrangement using wooden container.

4. Amber Waves of Grain - Wildflowers, herbs, grasses.

5. National Parks - Ages 8 – under.

6. Happy Birthday America - Arrangement and container of your choice

Mountain greenery and accessories permitted. Please no artificial flowers. AHS will exercise all care, but cannot be responsible for loss or breakage. Entries need to be received between 5:30 and 7:30 PM Friday, July 31. Judging to follow.

First Place (Blue), Second Place (Red), Third Place (Yellow), Honorable Mention (White), Judge’s Award and Best in Show ribbons will be awarded.

Arrangements available for viewing all day Saturday. Please pick up arrangements Saturday between 3 and 3:30 PM (If possible, no earlier, no later.)

Just a reminder that the Town Office will be closed on Tuesday, June 30, for the Fiscal End of Year close-out.

The Town of Andover has a 1990 International 2554 single axle plow/dump truck, with 137,260 miles, for sale. The truck is being sold AS IS, WHERE IS using the bidding process. The truck sale includes the sander and wing plow but NO front plow. The Select Board has set a $5,000 minimum bid. Any questions about the unit can be directed to Per Tripp, Road Commissioner, at arc@andovermaine.gov or by calling the highway cell phone: 207-392-5063. Please submit bids to selectboard@andovermaine.gov

The Andover Food Pantry is open on Tuesdays and has just changed its hours to 8-10 am. They will be closed this coming Tuesday the 30th for the upcoming 4th of July holiday. This is such a wonderful resource for Andover and the surrounding towns of Upton, Byron, Roxbury and Hanover. Quite a bit of hard work is put in by the many volunteers. They are always looking for extra hands. Please stop by during open hours on a Tuesday if you have any questions about volunteering.

If you have any news or events to share please send them my way diananadeau@ymail.com

My friend Missy was camping at Lone Mountain Campground right up the street from me last week and I was able to go and have a nice afternoon visit sitting in her gorgeous camper enjoying the tranquil day. It was nice to catch up.

Then this past weekend my dear friend Tammy inv…

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The fifth grade class at Andover Elementary School had their graduation ceremony on June 8th. Best of luck to them all toward their middle school journey.

The Andover Elementary School also had its last student day today (6/9). A perfectly hot day for school to have an early dismissal. Please stay extra vigilant these next few months as the kids will be out and about enjoying their summer break. SAD #44 will be released early this Friday the 12th for their summer vacation. I hope that all my school staff friends savor these beautiful summer months and take time to recuperate!

There are 3 dates in July that AES will be offering some playdates with some fun activities: School may be over for the year but AES is still a family. Come join us for Play Dates this summer! We will be making crafts, gardening, playing in the sprinkler, and baking. All products will be for sale at the AES table at Olde Home Days. All funds raised will support the Homestead Project and the AES After School Program. We welcome all children ages 4 - 12 whether they come to our school or not. Come and be part of the fun! Please register at this link: [https://forms.gle/GMaVTV8BzVGeUrf48](https://forms.gle/GMaVTV8BzVGeUrf48) What a great way to spend a day or two, or three this summer, even for young visitors to our area.

The Lone Mountain Campground is ready for a busy summer season. A-frame cabins #3 and #4 are under construction. They will be ready for rental by Memorial Day of 2027. The campground is holding a T-shirt design contest for America’s 250th Birthday. Deadline is tomorrow June 12th...sorry for the late info! Please see the attached picture for all the details.

The second annual craft fair will be taking place on June 20th with over 20 vendors scheduled along with a food and beverage truck in attendance. Their gorgeous pool is now open and they once again will be offering public swims Monday-Thursday for $10 per person. Please contact the campground for any questions about these upcoming events: (207) 392-0019.

It seems that August is far away, however, the Andover Olde Home Days buttons are now available! You can pick yours up at Mills Market, Pete’s Hardware, and Aroma Joe’s in Bethel, with more locations coming soon. Buttons are just $1 each.

The AOHD committee is thrilled to announce this year’s grand prize, proudly donated by Clean Cut Painting. This is a truly exceptional gift: two professional painters for ten hours of labor each, plus up to $500 in materials covered. Whether you’ve been putting off a room refresh, or you have some trim that needs attention, or a bigger project in mind, this prize puts real skilled hands to work for you. All told, it’s a $2,500 value, and the committee is so very grateful for Clean Cut Painting’s generosity and support of our community. More prizes will be announced soon.

Raffles will be held at 1 PM and 2:30 PM on August 1st at the gazebo. If your number is called, you’ll need to present your winning button in person to claim your prize. These buttons usually get snapped up quite quickly so get yours soon.

I truly love attending the annual AOHD each year. Such a day of community, events, food and fun to take in. You always run into people that you don’t always get a chance to see. The committee works very hard for months to make this day amazing for everyone. Andover is a very special place and I just love that this is my hometown and that I get to reside here, the place where my heart has always called home.

The AOHD Amateur Photography Contest will be taking place again in 2026 thanks to Chad Bishop and crew. It will be held August 1st from 9 AM-1 PM downstairs at the Andover Town Hall. The six categories will be: portrait, landscape, black & white, flowers, birds/animals and the theme of this year’s AOHD, “A River Valley Playground.” There will be two age groups, adult and children, for each category. Limit of three entries per person per category. You cannot use the same photo for multiple categories. You must include your name, age group and category on each entry. Drop-off times are Wednesday, July 29^th, 12-3 PM, Thursday, July 30^th, 3-6 PM and Friday, July 31^st, 10 AM-2 PM...this day is the deadline as judging will take place. No professionals please!

I guess I need to go through some of my Ireland pictures to see if any are worthy of entering. I always try to submit some of my photos each year. I love looking at all the pictures that are submitted; there are really some talented amateur photographers out there. Please take a look through your photographs as well and c’mon up and enter them! Thanks again to Chad for keeping this going. If you have any questions please reach out to him at chadjosephbishop@gmail.com

Keep an eye out for Andover’s own Kate’s Kones to open for the season very soon. Nothing is more refreshing on a warm summer day than a freshly scooped ice cream. Please check the Facebook page Kate’s Kones for updates. Ice cream for supper? Why not!

This Friday, June 12^th, the Andover Summer Concert Series continues with the band “Drunk in Public.” It runs from 6-8 PM on the town common, rain or shine. All concerts are free with donations gladly accepted. I regretfully have other plans this weekend or I would be there in my lawn chair listening to the music. Big thanks to Pete Coolidge and his cohorts for bringing us another season of wonderful concerts.

The Andover Public Library, 46 Church Street, will be holding a few events this Saturday, June 13th. From 10 AM-1 PM will be the annual plant sale. There will be seedlings, flowers, perennials and house plants available. There will also be a tag sale taking place during those same hours. The final event of the day will be held from 2-4 PM, an Author Talk with local author Karen Swasey.

I decided to plant a “patio garden” this year. Just one Roma tomato plant and one pickling cucumber plant. They both are in plant pots on the back deck with tomato cages in place; hopefully this will deter my pets from letting their curiosity get the best of them.

My son Brandon gifted me two blueberry bushes for Mother’s Day this year. I’m hoping they will continue to grow and provide some delicious blueberries. I received a rhubarb plant from a neighbor last year and that is doing very well this year. Growing up we had two very large rhubarb patches at home. I remember my sister and I putting some sugar in a Dixie cup and each of us getting a piece of rhubarb to snack on. A dip in the sugar then a bite, a dip in the sugar and a bite and so on. Ahhh, the simple times of childhood. I hope you all have a very good week and as always, please send me any new or events.

diananadeau@ymail.com

The annual Alumni Banquet was recently held to celebrate our 2026 graduates. Karen Thurston was nice enough to share the following information of presented scholarships: Seniors in attendance were Dani Luce and Josie Robinson. There is a third senior, Hannah Bailey. Andover Educational Fund Fox Scholarship-Josie Robinson, Thurston Scholarship-Dani Luce, Sweatt Scholarship-Dani Luce, Andover Service Circle-Josie Robinson & Dani Luce .Walter Fox Book Award grade 6- Emma Andexler, grade 7- Thomas Gammon, grade 8- Adalyn Swasey, grade 9- Wesley Costa, grade 10- no nominees this year, grade 11- Hannah Stetson, grade 12- Hannah Bailey. Oh and… Allyson Hodson Memorial (for a junior who excels in literature) Sophia Percival, Michael Marston (to a senior who excels in Region 9 studies and is continuing their education) Dani Luce.

This past weekend was the Moon Dance Farm goat cuddling event. I usually lend a hand as a “goat ambassador” but I was unable to attend this year.

Nothing says spring like those cute little kids making their appearance in the world. And the goodies made from the milk are delicious! Cheeses, yogurt and cajeta (caramel sauce) which is the best on ice cream or for dipping fresh crispy apples in.

The Gammon Bison Farm welcomed baby #13 today... a baker’s dozen!

Some dates to mark on your calendars are:

Wednesday, June 10^th: Darlene Akers at the Dragonfly Healing Nest, 51 Akers Way, will be having an Open Nest Evening from 5-7 pm. Plant Swap and Teaching Garden Tour at 6 pm. Bring your extra seedlings, winter sowing extras, and/or perennials to share and go home with plants you would like in exchange. There will be plants flagged in the Teaching Garden that can be dug. Pots and tools to use will be available. There will also be a few select medicinal plants for sale. The Nest retail and in-house library will be open. Please note: The retail checkout will be closed during plant swap and teaching garden tour at 6pm, but will reopen shortly after.

Saturday, June 13^th: the annual plant sale will be taking place at the Andover Public Library. This will be held from 10-1 pm. After that there will be an Author Talk with Karen Swasey at the library from 2-4 pm.

I paid another visit to the library today to return “Project Hail Mary,” which I liked very much. Librarian Janet Farrington reserved “Remarkably Bright Creatures” for me and I was able to bring that home. Here’s hoping the firewood chores don’t interfere with some reading time. It was great to see young Miss Hannah Thacker helping out behind the library desk.

Another event in Andover will take place on June 20th from 9 am-2 pm at the Lone Mountain Campground will be holding their 2nd annual craft & vendor market. The first year had over 20 vendors and there will certainly be more this year. They also will have a food truck along with coffee & lemonade. If you are interested in a vendor spot, please email the campground at info@lonemountaincamping.com. I attended last year and the variety of crafters and vendors was wonderful. Lone Mountain Campground is growing by leaps and bounds; please take a ride up and see all they have to offer.

Here is a fun treasure hunt put on by our neighbors, The Ellis Pond Sidekicks: The Ellis Pond Sidekicks July magnet hunts are a month away. The hunts are open to the public and some of the magnets will be hidden in Andover. There are two hunts. One is for anyone and one is for kids 12 and under. To see the clues, you’ll need to be on Ellis Pond Sidekicks Facebook page. If you click to join, remember to answer three simple questions and agree to the rules or the FB bots will ignore the request. This sounds like a great activity for families to take part in once July arrives. I have fond memories of swimming at “The Pond” as a kid growing up in Andover.

On Saturday, June 13^th, the Ellis River Riders will be holding an open show at their grounds, 76 Airport Road, starting at 9 am, then on Sunday the 14th there will be a gymkhana show starting at 9 am. So many things to do and see in Andover this month! Please come on up and join in on one or all events!

Please send me any news or events diananadeau@ymail.com.

While I was at the library I was able to take out the book “Project Hail Mary” which I had seen with my family on Mother’s Day. I am really enjoying it. Now I’m on the wait list for the book “Remarkably Bright Creatures” which I watched recently on Netflix. I’m excited to read that one as well. People say the book is much more detailed; time will tell!

I just love visiting the library. It is such a wonderful old building with so many books full of stories to tell. There is also a beautiful cardinal puzzle being built at the moment by those who want to take a few minutes away from the shelves of books.

On Friday I travelled with one of my former Bethel Citizen sales team coworkers to Portland. We started off the evening with an amazing meal at The Corner Room. Then we went to a venue called Aura to see the front man of one of my favorite ‘80s hair bands, Cinderella, Tom Keifer. Seeing as it was general admission, Jenn and I actually found room on the floor in front of the stage to enjoy the music. The show didn’t start until 9 pm and ended about 11:30. That didn’t count the time that we stood outside waiting for the doors to open. My feet and knees paid for it the next day but it was 100% worth it. I finally crawled into bed at 2 am and fell asleep almost immediately. Such a great night out...thanks Jenn!

On Monday my dad and I attended the Andover Memorial Day Service on the Common. Despite the pouring rain there was a very good turnout. It started with an opening prayer along with the Pledge of Allegiance. Hannah Thacker once again graced us with her beautiful, powerful voice by singing the National Anthem. A bell was tolled 28 times for the Andover men who died in service to our country during the Civil War, World War I and World War II. Christine Swain then read “Flander’s Field” and “We Shall Keep the Faith.” A placing of the Memorial wreaths, lowering of the flag and “Taps” followed by a closing benediction finished the ceremony.

After that a small group of gentlemen gathered at the Andover Historical Society Building to meet with reporter Rose Lincoln. The group had one thing in common, that they had all worked at one time at the Andover Earth Station in some capacity. I had reached out to Rose to see if she would be interested to hear some stories and history of the “Bubble.” My dear dad was one of them, and seeing as that he just celebrated his 89th birthday, it seemed important to gather these gentlemen before all these times and stories are forgotten. Please be on the lookout for this article to be published in a future Bethel Citizen. Thanks go out to my dad Ken Field, Dan Clark, David White, Danny White, Steve Hall and Rose Lincoln for indulging me to make this gathering happen. A huge thanks go out to Claire Sessions for taking time out of her day and letting us use the AHS building. Thank you Claire!

The Acoustipalians will kick off the Andover Summer Concert Series this Friday night, the 29th, on the Common. Concerts are held from 6-8 rain or shine, and are free to the public with donations gratefully accepted. Let’s all hope for great weather for the start of the 13th season; music always seems a bit better under clear skies.

The family of Edith “Joanne” Palmer wanted me to put in a reminder that she will be laid to rest this Friday the 29th. It will take place at the Woodlawn Cemetery in Andover at 2 pm.

Goat cuddling is taking place this weekend, Saturday May 30th at Moon Dance Farm. Reservations are required. Reserve your 30-minute session to cuddle the adorable goat kids. $9 per person or a family for $25 (children under 2 years old are free). Currently booking from 9am to noon, rain or shine. Please wear long pants and closed toed shoes for safety. And bring your camera! 660 South Main St., Andover. Also booking limited private sessions; inquire by text 357-8909.

Also taking place this Saturday, May 30^th, is the annual Andover Town Meeting. It will be held upstairs at the Andover Town Hall beginning at 8 am. Absentee Ballots are now available at the Andover Town Office for the June 9, 2026 election.

Please share any news or events with me. I like to wrap things up by Tuesday evening for publication on Thursday. diananadeau@ymail.com

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Also, the Gammon Bison Farm has had 8 new bison calves born to date this spring. They have 19 adults, 18 ladies and one lucky studley guy named Henry. I stopped along the fence to watch them and take a few pictures and some of the younger adults treated me to a raucous race. They certainly were thundering about on that beautiful spring day.

In the fall the farm puts out the call for leftover, paint and wax free, Halloween pumpkins. You can drive up and stop by the fence and toss the pumpkins over. As soon as they see a car pull up alongside the fence the herd comes to inspect very quickly. This has become an early November tradition for me and let me tell you, those bison make short work of those pumpkins. Come take a nice pleasant ride to Andover to check out these majestic creatures for yourselves.

I had a great Mother’s Day. My husband, Bob, made me a delicious breakfast, then I got to spend time with my boys, Brandon and Hunter, along with Hunter’s girlfriend Amanda at the movies. I was finally able to see “Project Hail Mary.” We all really liked it. Now I need to read the book! I hope all the moms out there enjoyed their day as well.

Andover Historical Society member and author Peter Stowell will be at the Andover Historical Society building, 32 Elm Street, to update everyone on his new book. The name of the book is “The Fabric of Andover” which is due out soon. He will be speaking Thursday the 14th (tonight) at 6 pm. I can’t wait to get my hands on a copy!

I received a wonderful email from Penny Percival with very kind words and also some information from the Andover Public Library and the Andover Educational Fund. On Wednesday, May 20^th, there will be a cookbook swap at the library from 3-5 pm. It’s just what it sounds like - bring cookbooks you don’t use anymore to pass along to someone else and pick up new-to-you books to test out. I’m sure there will be a lot of discussions about favorite books and recipes - and you can’t beat the price, free! This is such a great idea! Looks like it’s time to go through mine as I have been known to have just a few.

Mark your calendars for June 13th. The annual plant sale will be held at the library from 9-1. The same day from 2-4 the library will be hosting an author talk with Karen Swasey.

The Andover Educational Fund has scholarship funds available for our Adult Education program. Details are at on the website, andoveredfund.org

You must be an Andover resident aged 25 or older to qualify, and the course work or training must be career-related. Other than this, the application process is very straightforward and the AEF would love to help you advance in your current job or start down a new career path. Folks can email me at adulted@andoveredfund.org with questions. I’m always happy to chat.

The Lone Mountain Campground is open for the season and they are looking for a summer pool attendant. This position runs from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day. Saturdays and Sundays from 11am- 5pm. Holiday weekends would include Friday night as well from 3pm-7pm. Perfect for a high schooler or someone looking for a summer job. Job details: Respectfully enforcing pool rules, keeping the pool complex neat and clean and daily pool complex safety checks. Please give the campground a call at 207-392-0019 if interested or stop by the campground to fill out an application.

Welcome to Donald Brann, who has been hired as the Highway 1 employee. Donnie will begin training on May 18th. He has worked at a local ski mountain for the past 10 years doing maintenance and mechanical work and plowing snow. Best of luck to you, Donnie!

This is the last weekend for the Transfer Station “Spring Clean Up.” They are accepting bulky items such as a mattress, box springs, upholstered chairs, couches, etc. All require fees to leave at the Transfer Station and they can be paid for at the Town Office and then brought the facility with a receipt of payment.

A date for your calendars is Saturday, May 23^rd, for the Annual Alumni Banquet. It is being held at the Andover Town Hall beginning at 4:30 pm for social hour. Then it will be dinner and awards to follow. The newest graduates will be honored along with the class of 1976 for their 50th year. RSVP’s were due on April 30th. If you need to get in touch with the Alumni Association to see if there is seating still available please mail your request to Andover Alumni Association PO Box 64 Andover ME 04216. Please include your name, address, year of graduation, and number of people attending. The cost is $16 per person. Fingers crossed that they can accommodate you.

Another date to mark down is the Andover Annual Town Meeting. It will be held upstairs at the Town Hall on Saturday, May 30^th, beginning at 8 am.

My dear sweet dad, Ken Field, celebrated his 89th birthday yesterday. We are very lucky to have him and I am hopeful that we will be able to go out deer hunting together once again this fall. My husband and I are doing his firewood for him but he is still going to be gardening this summer; can’t keep a good (and stubborn) man down. Love you, dad!

Please reach out with any news or events. diananadeau@ymail.com

Rhonda Jodrey wanted me to share that the burial for her mother, Edith “Joanne” Palmer, …

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We have been very busy in the Nadeau household doing firewood when time permits. My husband is making the most of his mud season days by running the wood splitter while I stack when I have downtime. We are doing my dad’s wood for his house as well and he has helped with stacking a bit. I for one can say I will be happy when this chore is behind us. I just keep reminding myself that firewood warms you twice, once when you are getting it ready in the spring and summer, then again in the fall and winter when it’s burning.

We have lost one of our buff Orpington hens to a crafty fox and had a close call with another this past Sunday. I was able to scare it off and it only got away with a mouthful of tail feathers. No more free-range time for the remaining 12 for the time being.

I am happy to report that the Andover Summer Concert Series lineup for 2026 has been announced. It all kicks off its 13th season on May 29 at 6 p.m. with the Acoustipalians. Nothing says summer has arrived like gathering on the Town Common and listening to music wafting in the evening air from the Bandstand. I will update each performer as the summer commences. All concerts are free but donations are greatly appreciated. Thanks again to Pete Coolidge for bringing this much loved series back to us for another year. Please try to make the trip up to Andover this season to partake of our wonderful summer tradition.

There will be a “Clean Up the Common” day at the Andover Common this Saturday May 2, starting at 10 a.m. Needed are volunteers with rakes, shovels for scooping up acorns, and disposable containers to put the acorns in. Please share this event with your family and friends. “Many hands make light work.”

If any high school student needs community service hours, this is a great opportunity. So many events take place on our beautiful town common throughout the year, so lending a hand to make it more beautiful is a no brainer.

One of the major annual events that is held is Andover Olde Home Days. The theme this year is “River Valley Playground.” Buttons and T-shirts will be available for purchase soon. I’m sure I will have an update when they hit the local businesses.

The Andover Elementary School has a “Paint & Snack” fifth grade fundraiser coming up on May 9. I will gather more info to add in next week’s column.

There is also still time to enroll your child in the early childhood, pre-k or kindergarten programs for the upcoming school year. Please call the Andover Elementary School for more information (207) 392-4381.

My husband, Bob, and I attended the Public Informational Meeting held at the Andover Town Hall on the evening of the 28th. Quite a few topics were discussed; among them were FEMA road work updates and an alternative town government. I wish I could have seen more people in the seats.

As a former secretary to the Andover Select Board I can certainly tell you that a lot of hard work and many hours go into running the town, by select board members as well as the employees in the town office and all the other good folks that work in all the different departments in town. It is really important to be present and vote at the annual town meeting. This year it will be held on Saturday, May 30, at the Town Hall beginning at 8 a.m. Please come and make your voice heard about the important articles that will be presented.

I hope you all have enjoyed the warm temperatures and sunshine; we do have some much needed rain coming. That should certainly green things up and put the fire danger down a bit. I have many buds on my 3 lilac bushes this year, I can’t wait for that heavenly scent!

Please send any news or events my way. diananadeau@ymail.com

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The hens have had their coop spring cleaned...I just wish I had time to do my “coop”! Hopefully in good time.

I was able to attend the visitation for Maureen Swain this past weekend. Although I only met her a handful of times, I got to know her by the stories told by her loved ones. There was a wonderful slide show with pictures of her throughout her life. It was lovely.

Claire Sessions again came through with some information from the Rec. Committee:

We have now placed a net, four paddles, and some balls at the outside pickleball court. The equipment is stored in the large black box located on the court and is available to anyone at any time, weather permitting.

We ask, if you have never put together the net, to reach out to any Rec. Committee member via the Messenger app on Facebook for a short tutorial. Once you see it done, it will be easy to do. It can be a bit confusing when you first look inside the carrying bag.

Also, please make sure you return the equipment to the box as you found it. Should there be an issue with any of the equipment, please reach out to us so that we can fix it and ensure everything is ready for the next set of players.

Inside Pickleball at the school will continue for a few more weeks.

The Rec. Committee is in conjunction with the Andover Common Folk. On “Green-Up Day,” Saturday, May 2nd, 2026 starting at 10:00am, we are inviting the community to come and help us clean up the Common from the winter debris. We need folks with rakes, shovels for the acorns and disposable, biodegradable containers to put them in. Sturdy, reasonably sized cardboard boxes would be appropriate.

The Common is at the heart of our community, where many fine events happen, bringing everyone together to enjoy the space. Let’s help out our Town Crew by getting the Common ready for our upcoming Concert Series and Andover Old Home Days—”Many hands make light work.”

The town of Andover never ceases to amaze me. I am sure that there will be a great turn out for this clean-up day. If anyone has a student that needs community service hours’ I believe that this is an awesome opportunity. If time permits I hope to lend a hand as well. Many people enjoy the town common for all sorts of events. It truly is the heart of our town.

The Andover Historical Society is in works to have a new Andover blanket available for purchase in the near future. The new design is at the weavers! Quite a few years back these were for sale and were snatched up quite quickly. I’m very excited for this new design to be available. It again has the Andover Earth Station (The Site, The Bubble etc.) on it where my dad worked for many many years. I have no doubt it will be very popular for those that live in Andover and for those family members and loved ones that have moved away.

The blankets will be 52x64 and have no fringe this time as the other one had. Once they know the cost they will begin taking prepaid orders. The AHS also hopes to have some available for Andover Old Home Days. These would make great holiday gifts! Please stay tuned for more details on these.

The Historical Society has, in its possession, a very large and very heavy safe in the basement that is taking up valuable storage space. If you, or anyone you know, recycles scrap metal, they would love to talk to you. You would need to have the appropriate equipment capable of safely removing the safe and liability insurance. You can send a message to them directly via their Facebook page: Andover Maine Historical Society and Museum, or send me an email and I can get your information to them.

Mills’ Market is hiring for the summer season. They are looking for motivated, reliable people to join their team. Hiring for: cooks, cashiers, waitstaff, prep cooks and dishwashers. If you’re hardworking, enjoy a fast-paced environment, and want to be part of a four-generation, family-owned small business, they would love to hear from you! Apply in person at Mills’ Market. Come be part of a place where everyone pitches in and works together!

Mark your calendars for the ever popular Annual Birthday Supper. This will be held at the Andover Congregational Church on April 25th at 5 pm. The menu this year consists of shepherd’s pie, cole slaw, homemade rolls and of course...the most delicious fancy birthday cakes. The cost is by donation.

My predecessor Jane Rich knew all the history of this annual gathering. It has been going on for decades. I believe that the only time it was canceled was during the war because of the food rationing. If I can find the history on it I will try and write about it in a future column. Please send any news or events my way.

diananadeau@ymail.com