News Notes

Compiled by Carolyn Cadigan

Women keeping it local: In late August, checks totaling $9,000 were presented to Gretchen Johnson, executive director of The Center for Grieving Children, Maine, by Deb Bergeron, founder of 100 Women Who Care Southern Maine. Almost 10 years ago, Bergeron started the Southern Maine chapter with the idea of harnessing the collective power of women to donate locally only to Southern Maine area charities/nonprofits serving Southern Maine. Four times a year, members of the philanthropic organization gather to network, socialize, and choose organizations to support. Each member writes a check on the spot at these gatherings for the selected charities. Despite the organization’s name, the chapter’s membership now numbers nearly 400 women strong from 49 local cities and towns.

Update on Emily King: Sanford’s Emily King is home from Boston Children’s Hospital after successfully receiving her second lung transplant. Emily will still have to make multiple trips to Boston for continued care. Emily’s mom Stephanie says, “Through it all, she remains positive, brave, and thankful for her gift of life.” Emily began second grade this fall.

Veterans are eligible for $20 vouchers at farmers market: Every Saturday during the month of September, any Maine veteran can stop by the Sanford Farmers’ Market and receive $20 in vouchers to spend at the market as a thank you for their service. The program is run by Vouchers for Veterans. Veterans must bring proof of residency and service.

FAQs on the new fire stations are answered: The Sanford Fire Department has been working closely with its consulting firms, WBRC and Mitchell Associates, to address residents’ questions about the new fire stations. Answers to some of the most commonly asked questions have been posted. Read the FAQs here.

74-year-old YMCA member rocks the ride: Marietta McNeil, a member of the Sanford-Springvale YMCA, had been training for months at the Wellness Center. McNeil, 74, had been building her strength and endurance in preparation for the17th Annual New England Parkinson’s Ride 2024, which took place Sept. 7 at Old Orchard Beach. She alone raised over $3,000 for The Michael J. Fox Foundation. McNeil rode 10 miles along with her son-in-law and grandson, who had only recently learned to ride a bike. Congratulations!

Another successful fundraiser is in the books: The Springvale Public Library last week cleared $8,800 from its annual book sale, an increase of more than $1,000 from last year. Some 50 volunteers and staff members staffed the two-day event. There was music, a raffle, a jewelry sale, and crafts. “I was so impressed by the sense of community,” said Lesley Unger-Mochrie, library director. “It’s not just about us selling books. So many people said, ‘thank you for having it.’” The sale reduced by 70 percent the thousands of books donated. Remainders are being donated to Goodwill, Savers, Books Revisited, and others.

Vaccine clinic announced: The Trafton Center at 19 Elm St. in Sanford will be hosting a vaccine clinic (flu and COVID vaccine) on Sept. 26 from 1 pm to 4 pm for anyone over the age of 18. Bring your insurance card or a picture of your card to the clinic. Vaccines will also be available for people without insurance. This clinic is offered in conjunction with the Southern Maine Agency on Aging and Northern Light Healthcare. FMI, call the Trafton Center at 207-457-0080 or go here.

A relaxing and educational jaunt through Springvale: An unexpected walk takes writer Paul Pence through some of Springvale’s parks, along the Mousam River, and to some of the village’s historic sites. The writer has allowed the Sanford Springvale Historical Society to share his article, published in “Northeast Traveler Magazine.” Read his story here.

Practice makes perfect: Fall hours for Sky View Pitch and Putt, 1569 Main St. in Sanford, are Thursday through Monday from 10 am to 7 pm; however, the driving range is available every day as long as a debit/credit card is used to purchase balls at the golf ball dispenser. The screens will not be open, but customers can still practice without them.

This fall, learn how to prevent falls: The Southern Maine Agency on Aging class schedule still has openings in its A Matter of Balance class, to be offered at the Anderson Learning Center, 21 Bradeen St., Springvale. The eight-session class, for people aged 60 and older, meets Mondays and Wednesdays from Oct. 2 to Oct. 30, 10 am to 12 pm. There will be no class on Oct. 14. The class emphasizes practical strategies to reduce the fear of falling and to increase activity levels. FMI and to register, go here.

Main Street Memo – Edition 38 is now available: Be in the know about the latest news and announcements in Sanford. Access the latest publication here.