Starting Off

When I first moved to Bridgton, I started to read the local publications right away, so that I could get involved in all that the region had to offer. One of the first newspapers I picked up was the Lakes Region Weekly, where I was first introduced to Carrye’s “Inside Bridgton” column. This was a great place for me to get a quick snapshot of the many events going on around town. Now, more than three years later, I’m sad that I won’t be able to read Carrye’s good-humored and well-written pieces, but I am honored to take her place as the new “Inside Bridgton” columnist. She’s a tough act to follow, but I’ll try my best.

Happy Spring

Last week I was at Highland Lake, enjoying the beautiful view. When I returned home, I realized something that I had completely overlooked while I was there: the ice is completely out! Strange that this fact wasn’t immediately apparent to me, especially since I’ve been waiting for it to happen. For me, though, it isn’t that I’m anxious to see the cold go away for good. I am someone who relishes every season, and I am in no rush to see one end and another begin. It’s up to Mother Nature to take care of the how and the when. I’ve heard so many people lately, talking about how summer is coming and complaining that it isn’t hot enough yet. But what about spring? This is such a fun time of year that certainly shouldn’t be overlooked. The birds are returning, the trees are budding, grass is greening, and new plants are shooting out of the ground each day. The daffodils are in bloom! Check out all the fun things going on around town to celebrate this exciting time of year.

Bridgton Farmers’ Market Returns

The grand re-opening of the Bridgton Farmer’s Market will take place on Saturday, May 2, on Depot Street. This year the market will be behind the Community Center, due to the ongoing construction work on Depot Street. Come on out and support our local farms. Even though it’s early, they are sure to have some goodies. Look for the white tents!

Chamber Events

The Greater Bridgton Lakes Region Chamber of Commerce will be having its 2015 Dinner Auction on Thursday, May 14, at Bridgton Academy. The silent auction will be at 5 p.m., dinner starts at 6:15 p.m., and the live auction follows at 7 p.m. Tickets are $22 per person. Call and make your reservation with the chamber at 647-3472. All are welcome.

The Chamber is having its 2015 Golf Tournament at Naples Golf & Country Club at 136 Sebago Road in Naples on May 28. Registration begins at 4 p.m., and Shotgun start is at 5 p.m. Cost is $40 per person. Please contact the chamber or [email protected] for more information and to sign up. All are welcome!

LEA Events

On May 8 and 22, join Lakes Environmental Association naturalist Mary Jewett and local birder Jean Preis on spring migration birding walks in Pondicherry Park. Meet at the Bob Dunning Bridge at 7 a.m.

On May 15, a Blooms & Birds walk will take place at Holt Pond with Mary Jewett and botany enthusiast Ursula Duve at 9 a.m. Pre-registration is recommended for both events, by contacting Mary at 647-8580 or [email protected]. Don’t forget rubber boots and your binoculars.

Art Classes

Gallery 302 on Main Street will be offering four different painting classes during the month of May. Topics include watercolor florals; a class about abstract art with imagination; a two-day workshop about painting water; and another two-day workshop focusing on using oil or acrylic paints. Please call the gallery at 647-2787 or go to www.gallery302.com for more information and to register.

Home and Garden Show

It’s so nice to see people out in their yards, tidying up all the debris left behind by winter and getting ready for the warmer seasons. It’s still early, but soon enough all the local nurseries will be open, and we’ll be planting our flower and vegetable gardens. In the meantime, The Home, Garden and Flower Show at the Fryeburg Fairgrounds is a great place to check out everything from annuals, perennials and fire pits for the back yard, to artisan olive oils and vinegars to use when cooking up the tasty veggies you’ll get from the farmers’ market. It takes place May 15-17. For more information, call 800-359-2033 or go to homegardenflowershow.com.

Massage and Reflexology

At this time of year, you can probably expect some achiness after working the gardening muscles that have been on vacation all winter. Luckily, we have places here in Bridgton where you can ease the aches and pains. Yes, we have good pubs and bars, but I meant massage! On Eagles Wings is currently offering a great deal on a two-hour session of massage and reflexology for only $65. Call for an appointment at 803-8025 or e-mail [email protected].