Letters

From the Harpswell Bandstand Committee: There are just so many folks to thank for the great success of the Harpswell Bandstand by the Sea 2026 season preview held May 9 at the Orr's Island Schoolhouse. The excellent food and music and the stimulating crowd created just the right vibe to lead us forward to our summer concert series, opening Thursday, June 25.

By Kathy Hirst: My thanks to Ken and the Anchor for sharing my experiences in Cuba. (See "On humanitarian mission, Great Islander observes effects of Cuban embargo," by Kenneth Z. Chutchian, on Page 17 of the May edition.)

From Liz Taylor: In recent years, Harpswell voters have approved funding for two major projects: $1.2 million for the renovation of the Recycling Center and $6 million for the construction of a new central fire station.

From Pete Nikitas: When Harpswell approved a $6 million central fire station on Mountain Road, it was presented as a forward-thinking investment in public safety. One year later, the questions are piling up faster than the answers.

From Matt Newberg: Countless dog owners have said this to me, usually with an apologetic tone as the animal is making an approach. Maybe it's because they see a residual hint of fear in my eyes. (I've been bitten.) Or maybe it's because almost all dog owners say this. I've said it myself.

From Robin Casey: Harpswell drivers: Please, please, please follow the rules of the road, especially on our narrow main roads! If someone or something is close to your side of the road, whether pedestrian, bicyclist or vehicle, you need to slow down or stop — not swerve into the oncoming lane without clearance to do so.

By Chadwick Jacobs: My family rents in Harpswell. In February, while we were running errands, our dryer caught fire. We returned to a home filled with thick smoke and called 911.

From Gina Snyder: Harpswell's annual roadside cleanup in commemoration of Earth Day will take place the week of April 19-25. Earth Day, April 22, is right in the middle of the week.

By Jerry Klepner and Connie Sage Conner: Since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Harpswell has raised more than $100,000 to help the people of Ukraine. Urgently needed items such as used vehicles and hospital maternity equipment were delivered to our friends in Chuhuiv in 2023 and 2024.

From Celeste Danforth: If you are fortunate enough to have a precious prekindergarten child or grandchild in Maggie York's new Harpswell pre-K class, you know how amazing Mrs. York is. For those who don't, all I can say is that it is great for Harpswell to have one of our own, a Harpswell resident, lead this class of young learners.