News Notes: October 8, 2023

Officer Chris Kondos rejoins the Sanford Police Department.

Photo Credit: Sanford Police Department

By Carolyn Cadigan

Sanford police officer rejoins the department: The Sanford Police Department has welcomed back Ofc. Chris Kondos, who worked for the department from 1996 to 2008. He was a founding member of the Special Response Team during that time. Ofc. Kondos joined the Kittery Police Department in 2008 and retired from there earlier this year. His dedication to the profession led him back to Sanford, where he is working in the Patrol Division.

Help SPART MART to get up and running at Sanford High School: The Sanford Backpack Program is launching a new venture called SPART MART, which provides free food at a student market at Sanford High School. Among the school’s student population are some who live independently and have to buy their own food, some who don’t have much to eat when they get home, and even some who are unhoused. Through this effort, items will be available at the free student market, making food more accessible at times that are more convenient for students. This venture comes at a time when the need for food assistance is increasing. FMI or if you are interested in supporting the Sanford Backpack Program in fighting hunger, email lori@strongersanford.org.

It’s time to get your carve on: Marc Motors Nissan is holding its 3rd Annual Pumpkin Carving Contest, offering both an adult prize and a child prize for the pumpkins that earn the most votes. The best adult entry receives a $250 cash prize, and the best child entry receives a $50 gift card to Smitty’s Cinema. Those interested in participating should take their already carved pumpkins to Marc Motors during the entry period, Oct. 24 through Oct. 26 between 8:30 am and 5 pm. Be sure to include your name and phone number on the back of the pumpkin. Pumpkins will be on display in both showrooms. The public can vote on the best pumpkin either in person or on Facebook. Marc Motors will announce the winners by noon on Oct. 27.

Animal non-profit seeking much-needed supplies: Another Chance Animal Rescue has had an influx of cats and kittens recently and is in need of all supplies, including food (wet and dry), litter, treats, disinfectants, laundry and dishwashing detergent, flea medicine, eye wash, ear wash, and anything a cat or kitten could use. The organization, which is a non-profit dedicated to giving animals another chance to find their forever home, is open only by appointment. Call 207-490-2855 if you can supply any of these items.

Volunteers needed to help older adults: Thriving in Place: Age-Friendly Sanford is looking for people who can help Sanford-Springvale older adults with simple home tasks, including yard work, small carpentry tasks, snow shoveling, changing light bulbs, installing air conditioning units, and other small jobs. Thriving in Place helps people with chronic health conditions, including the elderly and persons with disabilities, maintain or improve their health so they can remain independent and safe in their homes and communities. FMI or to volunteer, call the YMCA Trafton Center at 207-457-0080 or email Robin Bibber at rbibber@sanfordymca.org.

Fall Flushing: The Sanford Water District began its fall flushing program Oct. 1. Visit their website for a schedule of what areas will be flushed and when. The schedule may change if issues are encountered during the program, if that happens the schedule on the website will be adjusted. https://www.sanfordwater.org/flushing.