News Notes

Compiled by Carolyn Cadigan

More than just watercolors are on display: Several local artists have their works on display at the Sanford Water District office. The public is invited to view the paintings, drawings, photographs and ink pieces that hang on the walls. People do not need to have business at the office to view the artwork, which will be on display for three months.

Helping both Mother Earth and those in need: A clothing donation bin has been placed in the Saint Thérèse of Lisieux Parish parking lot next to the Food Closet. Donated clothes, shoes and accessories that are dropped in the bin will be recycled by Apparel Impact, a family-owned, veteran-owned company that has been recycling textiles since 2014. Donated clothing is cycled through to be redistributed or recycled to create new products. This effort not only reduces landfill waste — textiles make up nearly 10 percent of total municipal solid waste in the United States — but also helps people in need. Items are provided to veteran organizations and nurses at schools in underserved communities. These organizations may request items directly. Apparel Impact then delivers or mails the items to the schools or veteran organizations to be given to the individuals in need. FMI and a list of acceptable items to donate, go here.

The summer camp stage is calling: Registration for Nasson Little Theatre’s 2024 Youth Camps is now open. This summer’s offerings include Vocal Camp, “Matilda Jr. The Musical” and Improv Camp. FMI and to register, go here.

Library storm damage update: Goodall Library has reopened fully as of April 1 after recovering from storm damage it suffered at its temporary location at The Center for Shopping. The reopening was sooner than originally expected thanks to the work of the library staff as well as the Maine State Librarian, Lori Fisher, who loaned two industrial dehumidifiers to aid the library’s reopening efforts.

The time has come to raise the roof and have some fun: The YMCA Winter Gala is scheduled for April 13 from 7 pm to 11 pm. The event will have a DJ and dancing, a cash bar, hors d’oeuvres, a grazing table, a silent auction, raffle baskets and a diamond earring raffle. “Raise the Roof” in support of the Sanford-Springvale YMCA’s childcare expansion project. Tickets are $50 per person. Register at the Welcome Center, online here or call 207-324-4942.

Main Street Memo – Edition 34 is now available: Be in the know about the latest news and announcements in Sanford. Access the latest publication here.

Sanford gets the big green light to update traffic signals: The Build Grant has enabled the Maine Department of Transportation and the City of Sanford to begin replacing all traffic signals in the community. Work started on March 12 near Walmart in South Sanford and has continued northward. The new traffic lights will be interconnected via Sanford Net Fiber, allowing for smart operation and prioritization for emergency vehicles. This networked system will be a first in Maine. Additionally, the Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) grant may provide opportunities for future enhancements such as adding sensors for pedestrian safety.

Improving overall health practices: A diabetes prevention program offered at the Sanford-Springvale YMCA aims to help those at risk of developing Type 2 diabetes reduce that risk by taking steps that will improve their overall health and well-being. The program, led by a trained lifestyle coach, consists of 26 class sessions. A general meet & greet will be held on April 16, 6 pm to 7 pm. Classes start April 23 at 6 pm. YMCA membership is not required. FMI on the program, contact Merilee Perkins at mperkins@sanfordymca.com or call 207-324-4942.

Historical Society elects new president: The Sanford-Springvale Historical Society (SSHS) announced the election of Lawrence Furbish as its new president on March 14. Furbish takes over the office formerly held by Harland Eastman, who served as president of the Society since its creation in 2005. Eastman passed away on Feb. 29 at age 94. “No one will ever know as much about Sanford’s history as Harland did,” Furbish observed. “He will be greatly missed.” Nevertheless, the Historical Society’s Board remains committed to Eastman’s legacy and passion for preserving and promoting the history of the City of Sanford and Village of Springvale. Furbish has been a SSHS Board member since its creation and was also a member of the Sanford Historical Committee.

Get your bagel fix in Springvale: Downhill Bagel Co. is now open at 446A Main St. They offer hand-rolled bagels, croissants from Maine-based The Pastry Pair and milk from Harris Farm. The shop is planning to be open Thursday through Sunday for breakfast and lunch, weather permitting.

Bowl-A-Rama hosts cancer fundraisers: At the Candlepins for Cancer Fundraiser, hosted by Bowl-A-Rama on March 27, Team Graffam (Bob Heap, Ryan Graffam, Robert Newport, Gerry Newport II and Gerry Newport III) was selected in a raffle to bowl for a strike to win a $1,000 jackpot. Gerry Newport III got the strike and his team donated $200 from the winnings to Candlepins for Cancer. A total of $1,100 was raised for the charity that evening. Over $2,000 was raised at Bowl-A-Rama in two events over the past month. In addition, they will host the Men’s and Women’s Individual Roll-Offs in May and the Top 5 Mixed Live Show in June.

Walk and chew gum at the same time. Check. What now? Jason Bigonia is going after a world record on May 19 by joggling 50 miles! No, it’s not a typo. Joggling is juggling while running. The time to beat: 7:53.55. Bigonia is taking on the challenge as a fundraiser for Grahamtastic Connection’s superstars. The Springvale-based organization provides free technology to children with cancer and other serious illnesses to support their education and emotional well-being. Go here to pledge your support.