It looks like summer is finally here, and there is a lot of news happening in Biddeford — even as many of us try to slow down and take advantage of the beautiful weather.
But before we get to the upcoming events, the developing headlines and the reflections of stories published – I would like to express my overwhelming sense of gratitude to the people of Biddeford.
Two weeks ago, the Biddeford Gazette launched what we call “Project Reciprocity,” a community-based initiative designed to support and grow what has become a valued public resource – a professional, Biddeford-focused news organization.
The community’s response has been incredible! I am so thankful and frankly blown away by all the encouragement and support we have received.
Project Reciprocity is a two-fold endeavor, an ongoing campaign to ensure funding for our ongoing work and future projects; and an effort to further integrate community participation in the Gazette’s daily operations.
The Biddeford Gazette is
your resource and we want
you to help shape its
future and focus.
Do you have a passion for photography? Would you like to write a monthly column? Would you like to serve on our community advisory council? We’re also looking to form partnerships with community members who have experience in graphic art, marketing and social media.
In short, the possibilities are endless – and we want you to play an active role in our ongoing development.
Why are we asking for financial donations?
In order to build and expand a professional news organization, there are some financial realities that cannot be ignored. Community funding will be used to support three main components. DONATE HERE
1 | Development of a stipend fund that will allow us to expand staffing and the ability pay reporters, interns or others to cover community events. This goal will allow us to expand and improve the Gazette’s coverage.
2 | We are building a new website that will significantly improve our news delivery but will also provide readers with more interactive tools and participation opportunities. That upgrade requires a professional web designer, the purchase of new software and other equipment.
3 | Community funding also supports our daily operations, including professional memberships, office expenses, document filing fees, insurance, legal services and professional development opportunities.
I am also excited about the Gazette’s plan to invest in Biddeford’s future by creating an annual scholarship fund for a BHS senior who is planning to study journalism or a related field.
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A new chapter begins in Biddeford
Speaking of Biddeford High School seniors, we want to congratulate the BHS class of 2026! Your future is brimming with potential, and we look forward to your future success.
We’re had a lot of fun publishing stories about this year’s graduating class. Check these stories: BHS celebrates 165 graduating seniors; Student athletes recognized; and the ‘Kiss My Class Goodbye’ photo montage from Photographer Maureen Grandmaison.
Also this week, the Biddeford Gazette once again led the way in comprehensive local election coverage, providing updates and background information about this year’s school budget, local races and Maine’s crowded June 9 primary races.
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Nice weather, great events
Summer provides us with many opportunities to enjoy the outdoors and local events that underscore our shared community connection.
The Heart of Biddeford’s Music in the Park free concert series kicks off this month; and the 43rd annual La Kermesse festival is right around the corner. The upcoming Saco Sidewalk Arts Festival and ChamberFest will showcase local artists and many of our community’s small businesses.
The Biddeford Cultural and Heritage Center is offering several informative events; the McArthur Library will be offering a slew of summer activities while City Theater unveils its summer programming.
For a complete list of fun events, be sure to check the Biddeford Gazette’s EVENTS page.
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What’s ahead?
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This week we are publishing our third installment of our In-Depth stories about the relationship between the University of New England and the city of Biddeford. This installment will focus on the work of the Institutional Zone Review Committee and how local mooring holders could be impacted by UNE’s plans to construct a 180-foot research pier on the Saco River.
We sat down with Brian Clark, Biddeford’s new director of Community and Economic Development, for a candid interview about his goals and Biddeford’s future.
And yes, we will finally share our warm-hearted and rather fascinating interview with one of Biddeford’s most beloved elder statesmen: George ‘Pete’ Lamontagne.
P.S. Please join me today in celebrating the birthday of Biddeford Gazette publisher Laura Seaver. Without her, none of this would be possible.
If you enjoyed this story, please consider supporting local, independent journalism by making a donation to the Biddeford Gazette, a community-driven, non-profit news organization fueled by decades of professional experience | Click Here to Donate Thank you!
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Hi Randy,
I love that you’re inviting the community to potentially write something for the Gazette. So I live with bipolar and have struggled for many years to find ways to cope and more exactly thrive with it as being part of who I am. I strongly believe that manic depression is actually a spiritual experience and too misunderstood by so many people and the public. I wrote my Masters thesis at USM entitled Seeing Mental Illness as a Spiritual Awakening. I would love to write something for the Gazette along the lines of what I believe could be a helpful perspective for many living with mental illnesses. Let me know what you think! I look forward to hearing from you 😊
All my best, Catherine
Catherine S. Duclos (she/her) M.S. Adult & Higher Education 39 Sullivan St. #105 Biddeford, ME 04005 207.450.7165
“I wish I could show you when you are lonely and in darkness the astonishing light of your own being.” – Hafiz
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That would be absolutely awesome!! Please call me at your convenience to discuss the details: 207-409-0366
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