School’s IN

Next week, if you can believe it, the kids are back in school. Honestly, I don’t quite get why they start school before Labor Day. When I was a kid, we always started the day after Labor Day, but I am sure it has something to do with snow days and requirements. Kids don’t want to hear that! Oh well, it’s a good thing for working parents, I suppose. The good news is the high school, at least from a cosmetic standpoint, is in good shape. They have paved the front parking lot, and the fac?ade looks great. I am sure there is more work to be done, but what great progress has been made.

Best sandwich

in New England

Congratulations to the Galley Restaurant of Naples, and owners Matt and Meghan Sullivan, for winning this impressive accolade. Their zesty lemon lobster roll (which I have yet to try), won this amazing title of the best on the Travel Channel’s Best Sandwich in America Contest. Winning in New England made them eligible to compete in the best in America contest, but, unfortunately, they were eliminated early on in that contest. To me, having the best lobster roll in New England right here in Naples is way cool enough and a great honor that they should be proud of. A nice way to represent Naples.

Pie in the Park

A great last “hurrah” before the summer winds down would be to attend “Pie in the Park,” a special summer event sponsored by the Casco Recreation Department from 5:30 -7 p.m. on Aug. 26. Local musicians will be on hand to showcase their talent in the gazebo. A variety of pies made by Recreation Committee members and local home cooks will be the main ingredient for the Sunday dessert party. All are invited to come for pie, music and a visit with friends and neighbors. Pies for dessert, face painting for the kids, music for all! It’s all happening at Casco Day Park, located next to the Community Center on Route 121 in Casco Village. If you can’t make it, you can help by donating a pie. A slice of pie is only $2, with a choice of lemonade or iced tea for 50 cents. Please bring a chair or blanket and your sweet tooth. For more information, to volunteer to help, or donate a pie, contact Beth Latsey (627-4187) or e-mail [email protected].

Mad Science

As part of the incentive to read 20-plus books this summer, local children were treated to a fun science related show put on by the ever-popular Mad Science Team. Naples Public Library participated in the Dream Big Reading Program. The program involved kids signing up to read, and then keep track of their progress by sticking starts on a printed sheet the library handed out. When you brought your sheet in to the children’s librarian, Miss Kate, the kids were rewarded with a small prize. The show was so much fun and the kids not only had fun, but I am sure they learned a thing or two. Thank you, Naples Public Library.

Classic Rock

and Roll Cruise

The Lions are roaring again with a fun dancing cruise all for a good cause. Join them on Saturday, Sept. 1 for their last cruise of the season. All proceeds benefit various local charities. The tickets are $20 per person with the cruise running from 7:30 p.m.-9 p.m. Contact the Songo River Queen at www.songoriverqueen.net or 693-6861 for more information.

Haunted happenings

Dea Dea Robbins is planning a spooktacular time for you once again this Halloween season. If you haven’t been to Salem during the month of October, it really should be on your bucket list. On Oct. 27, Dea Dea gives you the chance to cross it off by offering annual bus trip to the creepiest of New England cities. The bus will arrive at the Bridgton Community Center at 7 a.m., and then head on over to the Naples American Legion directly afterwards. Once you arrive in Salem, you are on your own, free to explore this bustling city offering everything Halloween is about. There are many fun places to explore, and plenty of options for you lunch and snacks. The cost for the transportation is only $27.50 round trip, and we all know that is a bargain with gas and toll prices these days. Call Dea Dea at 693-3408 for more information or to reserve your spot.

Condolences

Condolences to family and friends of Jim Fogg, a longtime Naples resident who passed away unexpectedly this past weekend.