From the Community

The Mid-Coast Retired Educators Association recently presented its annual classroom grants to local educators. The organization usually awards three of the $300 grants, but because there were many worthy proposals in the latest round, it gave five.

After Harpswell voters approved a new comprehensive plan in November 2025, the town submitted its plan for state approval. The state notified the town that the plan needed minor changes before it could be deemed complete and consistent with Maine's Growth Management Act. These changes included updating older data and clarifying the town's request for an exemption from designating growth areas.

Cundy's Harbor student Molly Greenleaf earned "highest honors" to make the dean's list for the fall semester at the University of New Hampshire. Greenleaf, a 2025 graduate of Mt. Ararat High School, is studying biology.

Maine School Administrative District 75 is gearing up for its second annual Community STEM Night on Thursday, Jan. 29, from 4-7 p.m. at Mt. Ararat High School in Topsham.

All the best organizations regularly examine their strategies and refine or even overhaul them as needed to support their mission and vision. Harpswell Aging at Home is no exception.

The Mingo Club, of Bailey Island, awarded $1,000 grants to three Harpswell students in 2025: Kira Chown, Molly Greenleaf, and Elisabeth Kelly.

As the temperature drops below 45 degrees Fahrenheit, the risk of hypothermia and other cold-related health issues goes up. Experts recommend staying hydrated and well nourished during winter months, which means drinking plenty of fluids and eating balanced meals to maintain energy levels and body heat.

In November, Harpswell voters approved a new comprehensive plan by a wide margin. Simultaneously, the plan was being reviewed by state agencies to determine its completeness and suggest ways to improve it.

Older adults are a frequent target of scams for a variety of reasons, including social isolation and cognitive issues. After encountering one such scam firsthand, I decided to share a warning about a few of today's most common scams. I'm a retired attorney and have researched these scams.

Data collection for the town's real estate revaluation is 64% complete. Data collectors already have visited Harpswell Neck, Bailey Island, and Orr's Island. Homeowners in those areas who have not had interior inspections will receive a letter from Vision Government Solutions requesting an appointment.