Give a Hoot

Last week, on one of those really rainy days, I decided to take a nice, long walk along Highland Road. Even though I was soaked, I was enjoying the cool air and the chance to clear my mind. As I was walking along, I started thinking about all kinds of things, and three things in particular made an impression on me. The first was that my waterproof shoes weren’t actually waterproof. The second was that I really like it when people hang artwork on the outside of their homes; it’s a neat idea. And the third was something that has been on my mind for years: there’s a lot of garbage thrown around Bridgton.

As one of the gardeners who works on the town flower beds, I am constantly picking up trash in the gardens, along the side of the road, and in our parks. After parades, there are always a whole lot of candy wrappers. After weekends, I see a lot of empty soda and alcohol containers. And on most other days, I see food scraps and wrappers, cigarette butts, plastic bags, etc. A few weeks ago, I even saw the obvious remains of a party that must have taken place in Pondicherry Park, floating down the Stevens Brook.

It’s easy for the adults to blame it on the kids, or the people from away to blame the locals, or the locals to fault the visitors. But the truth is that it is everyone’s responsibility to keep Bridgton looking its best. Let’s all continue to clean up after ourselves, to set an example for those who don’t and to pitch in when we do see garbage littering our landscape. This town belongs to all of us, and it’s up to all of us to make it shine.

For Biking Enthusiasts

The Loon Echo Trust Trek will be taking place on Sept. 19, at Shawnee Peak. This bike trek offers several different options, including 25-100 mile rides, a hike-bike combo, and family-friendly options. For more information and to register, go to loonechotrek.org.

Another fun event coming up next month is BikeMaine. This year, Bridgton will be one of the scheduled overnight stops for this 300-person ride, which takes place Sept. 12-19. The cyclists will be stopping in Bridgton on Monday, Sept. 14. Each rider travels an average of 55 miles per day, so there’s no doubt that they’ll be looking for a break when they arrive. Luckily for them, there’s a committee planning a warm welcome and fun evening for them. If you would like to volunteer to help out with this event, send an email with your contact information to Anne Krieg at ecodevdir@bridgtonmaine.org, or you can drop off your information in person at the municipal building.

SPARK Week

The Bridgton Alliance Church has been hosting a variety of events all week, and the fun continues through the weekend. On Saturday, Aug. 22, meet at the church, 368 Harrison Road, at 9:30 a.m. for a hike up Pleasant Mountain, which will be led by an experienced hiker. Also on Saturday, between 2-4 p.m., there will be a pet show and parade, where people can bring their domestic pets and show them off. Once again, I think it’s for the best that I leave Ed home. On Sunday, the festivities conclude with a closing service at 9:30 a.m., which will feature a gospel band.

Get Out Your Mullet Wig

On Saturday, Aug. 22, from 9 p.m.-midnight, the Campfire Grill on Route 302 will be hosting a “Back to the ’80s” party with DJ Dan. Ladies, don’t forget to tease your bangs and dye your hair to match your neon socks. Guys love that look. And remember, Aqua Net hairspray doubles as perfume or cologne.

Third Annual Folk Festival

Folks of all ages, come on out and experience a truly one-of-a-kind event this weekend, Aug. 21 and 22, on the grounds of the Bridgton Community Center and Depot Street. The Village Folk Festival has an impressive lineup of events this year, from 9 a.m.-9 p.m. both days. There will be food, beer, music, contra dancing, an art tent, a wheelbarrow race, a beard contest, music, a silent auction…too much to mention here, so check out the full schedule of events at www.villagefolkfestival@gmail.com.

Funding for Youth Health

Here is some good news for our young adults: Bridgton has been selected as one of the communities to share in a funding stream of $40,000, awarded through the Maine Health Access Foundation, which is focused on the promotion of youth and young adult health. Part of this funding provides year-round paid internships for local youth to help assist their peers with stress, anxiety and depression, through a coalition called “Healthy Youth ? Healthy Lake Region.”

Bus to Bridgton

The Lakes Region Explorer bus service is being extended to Bridgton beginning Aug. 17, with stops in Naples, Casco, Raymond, Windham, Westbrook and Portland. For a full schedule and fare information, visit www.rtprides.org. This is great news for Bridgton. Thanks to all those involved in making this a reality for our town.

Hunter Banks and Harold Bracy recently completed a year of service as youth apprentices in the Healthy Youth Healthy Lake Region project. The project, which is focused on the promotion of youth and young adult health in the area, was recently granted $40,000.Photo courtesy of Jana Richards

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