Category: FEATURE

Finding meaning in community and each other

~ marcmalon9bbd0f805b ~ Leave a comment

The holiday season can be difficult for many people, but there are resources for those struggling with the extra stress

By State Rep. MARC MALON

The holiday season is a source of joy for many. The lights are pretty, the kids get excited for Santa and families gather in reunion and celebration; and obviously for many, it is an intensely holy and spiritual time of year.

It is also for many a time of elevated stress and emotional turmoil. There is something about the season which brings out complicated feelings. If this is true for you, know that you are not alone.

A 2021 study highlighted by the National Alliance for Mental Illness (NAMI) found that three out of five Americans feel that their mental health is negatively impacted by the holidays. Some of this can be attributed to simple pressures such as finding presents, and more difficult terrain such as navigating difficult family relationships.

The fact that the holidays coincide with the arrival of winter, literally the darkest days of the year, contributes to seasonal affective disorder in many folks.

Although a time of hope and celebration, the holiday season can be difficult for many people. (Photo: Yale University)

I feel this as well. I frequently feel depressed and melancholy during the Christmas season, even though I love the holiday itself and the social aspect of gathering with family and friends.

Some of this is likely due to the fact that it is a rare time in which I slow down, which gives me more time to reflect and think about all aspects of life; good, bad and ugly. Many classic Christmas songs drive home the melancholy even further (except for “Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer” – that one just annoys me).

So, as we move through this season, it is important to remember that if you are struggling, you are not alone.

Many – myself included – feel the same, and there are many resources in our greater community which might be helpful while navigating this time.

The rising cost of food can make it difficult for many folks to afford feeding their family on a daily basis, making a special holiday meal outside the realm of possibility. Recognizing this, the Bon Appetit Community Meal Program serves supper Monday through Friday at 4:30 p.m. and a Sunday breakfast at the Second Congregational Church on Second Street from 8 to 9 a.m. The church also serves a community ham dinner on Christmas Eve. If you are interested in learning more, you may call 207-391-6279 or email secondcongbiddeford@gmail.com.

The Biddeford Food Pantry is open Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 9 to 11 a.m. and all are welcome. This volunteer-run organization is not seasonal, it is a year-round miracle.

NAMI Maine operates a help line for mental health resources Mon. – Fri. from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. Simply dial 1-800-464-5767 and then press 1. They can help you navigate options for mental health and substance use treatment.

This part is crucial: If you or a loved one are in crisis, please call or text 988.

These resources only scratch the surface of what is available.

Now, I think we can mostly agree that things in the world could be better. It needs to be easier to find affordable mental health care, both for immediate needs and for ongoing preventative services.

If you have ever tried to find a therapist who takes insurance, you know what I mean. And it would help if Congress could extend the Affordable Care Act health insurance subsidies so working families don’t see their premiums skyrocket at the start of the new year. We have to do better.

But we also must try to find mutual strength and support in each other. We’re often good at providing it to one another in an acute sense – by donating to GoFundMe campaigns or attending a community fundraiser, or maybe even by donating food to a local hunger relief program.

But we should also try to consider what is needed for people we don’t know, especially those who are different from us. Communities are stronger when support is coming from all and available to all.

One of my favorite Christmas carols is a classic, “O’ Holy Night.” It is a religious song, first written by a French poet named Placide Cappeau, set to music by composer Adolphe Adam, and translated to English by John Sullivan Dwight.

Dwight and Cappeau were abolitionists who saw universal meaning in the song, one which could be applied regardless of religious beliefs. The final verse, which is not sung in all versions, contains the following lyrics:

“Truly He taught us to love one another;

His law is love and His gospel is peace.

Chains shall He break, for the slave is our brother;

And in His name all oppression shall cease.”

Happy Holidays.

______________

Rep. Marc Malon is serving his second term in the Maine House of Representatives, representing a portion of Biddeford. He serves as a member of the Veterans and Legal Affairs Committee and the Housing and Economic Development Committee. He can be reached via email at marc.malon@maine.gov

Never miss another update! Subscribe for free today!

2025: A year of big changes in Biddeford

~ Randy Seaver ~ Leave a comment

By RANDY SEAVER, Editor

There is little doubt that 2025 was a year of substantive change for the city of Biddeford. From political fallout to major infrastructure improvements and new business openings, this year featured a plethora of news stories about change.

In fact, even the news/media landscape changed as a new digital news source began operations, and a 36-year-old weekly newspaper ceased printing.

Like all other years, there was good news and bad news. Highs and lows.

So now we invite you to look back on what we believe were the Top-10 news stories in Biddeford during 2025. (Listed chronologically)

City Manager terminated

In February, the city council placed longtime City Manager James Bennett on “paid administrative leave.” Bennett, hired 10 years earlier, found himself embroiled and at the center of several controversies at City Hall over the last few months.

Bennett had announced his “phased retirement” in Oct. 2024, saying that he would leave his position in April 2025, with more than a year remaining on his contract.

 Bennett subsequently filed a lawsuit against the city. The city opted to approve an out-of-court settlement of roughly $90,000.

Newspaper ceases publication

Like many other weekly newspapers in southern Maine, the Biddeford-Saco Courier – owned by the Portland Press Herald’s parent company – ceased publishing its print publication in early March.

Though the Courier is no longer published, its parent company now publishes a weekly, digital only newsletter.

The Courier was originally owned and operated by David and Carolyn Flood, Saco residents who later moved to Biddeford. David Flood was elected to and served briefly on the Biddeford City Council.

Major road construction project begins

In April, the city began an extensive sewer separation project on lower Elm Street (Route One). The project would last more than seven months and disrupted traffic flow throughout the city’s downtown area.

The project had an adverse impact on many downtown merchants and was jokingly dubbed as “The Nightmare on Elm Street.”

The mandated project faced intense criticism on social media sites, but was ultimately completed just a few days after the expected finish date.

Chamber hires, fires and hires new director

In May, the Biddeford-Saco Chamber of Commerce hired Matt Lewis as the agency’s new executive director after Jim LaBelle’s announced retirement. Just six months later, the Chamber fired Lewis and decided to hire Alex MacPhail as the organization’s new executive director.

Boys’ baseball team wins state championship

In June, the 15-4 Biddeford High School Tigers defeated the 17-3 Mount Ararat High School Eagles in the Class A Maine State Championship baseball game.

The Tigers rallied from two three-run deficits to beat Mt. Ararat and win their first state championship since 1984.

Truc Dever hired as new city manager

Also, in June, the City Council voted to hire Truc Dever as the new city manager. Dever was previously serving as the director of public works in the Seattle suburb of Kirkland, Wash.

In her previous position as public work director in Kirkland, Dever oversaw a staff of more than “170 employees across multiple divisions, including utilities, transportation and capital projects,” according to the city’s website.

JFK School closes after more than 60 years

The city’s JFK memorial elementary school dismissed its final classes in June. Voters previously approved a plan to expand Biddeford’s Primary School to accommodate JFK students.

School Supt. Jeremy Ray said that moving the city’s youngest students to BPS will give those children more stability and a less fractured learning experience.

“Going forward, students will be in the same building from Pre- K to second grade,” Ray said. “This way, the kids have four years in one building with lots of familiar faces.”

Planning board approves UNE’s pier proposal

The Biddeford Planning Board held a site walk to review the University of New England’s proposed research pier (Seaver photo)

In August, the Biddeford Planning Board narrowly approved a proposal by the University of New England to construct a large-scale research pier on the Saco River, adjacent to the school’s Biddeford campus.

The approval of the controversial project drew the ire of several residents who attempted to appeal the decision. The Biddeford Zoning Board of Appeals, however, voted unanimously (3-0) to stand by the planning board’s decision. The city — in November — filed a formal complaint about the project in York County Superior Court. A judicial review is pending.

Citizens organize grievance meeting

In October, more than 100 residents collected enough signatures to force a special “citizens’ grievance’ meeting before the Biddeford City Council.

During that meeting, residents raised concerns about how the city managed the review process of the University of New England’s controversial pier proposal. Residents’ concerns included the city’s decision to remove the harbormaster from the review process and unanswered questions about impacts on moorings held by commercial fishermen.

Voters choose new mayor, city councilors

Liam LaFountain (foreground, wearing glasses) celebrates his win on election night with several of his supporters. (Seaver photo)

Biddeford voters sent a clear message in November: They wanted a big change in city government.

In a three-way mayoral race, Mayor Marty Grohman was denied a second term by nearly two-thirds of those who cast ballots in Biddeford’s biennial, municipal election.

City Councilor Liam LaFountain narrowly won that three-way race, edging out Grohman with 210 votes, a margin of roughly three percent.

LaFountain campaigned and won on a platform of more transparency and accountability from City Hall.

Four new city councilors were also sworn into office, including Lisa Vadnais, Abigail Woods, David Kurtz and Jacob Pierson. Former councilors Patricia Boston and Brad Cote returned to the council after an extended hiatus of several years.

Other stories:

Of course, there were several other significant stories that took place over the last year, including a significant August fire that displaced two Biddeford families; a rather scathing report issued by the city’s financial auditors in August and the approval of two significant housing projects near the site of the former MERC trash-to-energy incinerator.

Several new businesses popped up in 2025, including an L.L. Bean outlet store, a Firestone Tire center and a new indoor recreation facility in the former Five Points shopping center.

And I’ll go ahead and toot our own horn. The Biddeford Gazette formally began its operations in January and now features a roster of contributing writers, expanded community-based news coverage and weekly obituaries.

Vincent Keely

When Laura and I started the project, we weren’t sure whether the endeavor would last six months. We exceeded all of our expectations, even after breaking my right arm in August.

I also want to note that our community lost Vincent Keely earlier this year. Keely, a former city councilor, was a beloved downtown business owner and reliably ensured the “raising of the Irish flag” at City Hall every year on St, Patrick’s Day. His restaurant – the Wonderbar – was a favorite hangout for city officials, reporters and others who wanted to keep updated about city news and events.

Now we’re looking forward to what 2026 will bring.

____________________

Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be reached by email: randy@randyseaver.com

c.) 2025 All Rights Reserved

Never miss another update! Subscribe for free today!

Despite cold, ‘Merry & Bright’ night attracts crowd

~ Randy Seaver ~ 1 Comment

Once again, Biddeford’s downtown holiday celebration and annual tree lighting ceremony Friday night drew a decent crowd downtown on lower Adams Street.

Poppy (3) was excited to see Santa Claus arrive along with her parents Stephanie and Michael of Biddeford (Seaver photo)

Santa Claus arrived on schedule, escorted by the flashing lights and the wailing sirens of a Biddeford Fire truck. Although the city’s new tree is less than nine feet tall, the crowd let out a roar once it was lit by strands of colored lights.

Santa Claus leads the crowd in a countdown to the tree lighting (Seaver photo)

This year’s event — coordinated by the Heart of Biddeford — offered something for everyone, including the “Merry Makerfair Holiday Market,” transforming the former Adams Street Courthouse into a modern-day North Pole elves’ workshop. More than 50 local vendors and artisans displayed a wide range of unique, handmade gifts.

The Merry Makerfair Holiday Market showcased unique, hand-crafted gifts from more than 50 local artisans (Seaver Photo)

Keeping traditions alive, the Biddeford Recreation Department offered a smores-making station and several firepits and games for younger children.

Micah, 6, from Saco, had some good luck at a fishing station. (Seaver photo)

City Councilor Roger Beaupre and his wife, Penny, attended the event. “Because of the cold, I didn’t expect this many people,” Beaupre said, pointing out that it was somewhat difficult to find a parking space.

Despite frigid temperatures, a good-sized crowd turned out for Biddeford’s annual tree lighting ceremony (Seaver photo)

According to our well-placed, high-level sources at the North Pole, Santa Claus will be making another visit to Biddeford on Sunday, December 14, from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Central Fire Station on Alfred Street.

In related holiday news, on. Dec. 14, Biddeford will also kick off this year’s Hannukah celebration with a downtown Menorah Lighting ceremony beginning at 5:30 p.m.; 17 Lincoln Street.

______________

Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be reached by email: randy@randyseaver.com

c.) 2025 All Rights Reserved

Never miss another update! Subscribe for free today!

“I hear that train a coming . . .”

~ Jim Krause ~ 1 Comment

Given increasing complaints, are train horns in Biddeford louder and more frequent?

By JIM KRAUSE, Contributing Writer

People living near railroad tracks in Biddeford are making noise about freight train horns that sound at all hours of the night. Rail officials say they are required by law — and in some cases for public safety.

The railroad through Biddeford dates to around 1842, nearly 20 years before the Civil War.

When the tracks were built, they were mostly surrounded by trees and open areas. As the train approached town, it passed mills and downtown businesses.

The building that now houses Champions Sports Bar once served as the Boston and Maine Railroad’s freight station. A small yard sat alongside the main tracks for switching and storing freight cars headed to the mill complex.

The former Boston & Maine freight station is today the location of Champion’s Sports bar.

But why do the horns seem louder now?

City officials in July 2024 removed a homeless encampment from Mechanics Park. The hope was that displaced residents would move to shelters or other resources. However, many relocated instead to James Street along the tracks.

In July, a CSX train struck and killed a trespasser between James and Main streets.

Officials from CSX and Amtrak — CSX owns the tracks and Amtrak leases the right to use them — say train crews are trained under Federal Railroad Administration regulations. Those rules (49 CFR Parts 222 and 229) require the use of horns or bells near crossings and whenever there are obstructions or people close to the right of way.

“One engineer described the area as ‘like dodging raindrops.’” Engineers say distractions such as headphones pose dangers, leaving horns as their only warning tool.

Another factor: a phenomenon known as temperature inversion.

On clear, calm nights, sound waves can bend downward, making horns seem louder. With fewer competing noises at night — traffic, sirens, kids playing — the horns stand out even more. And with most leaves off trees during fall and winter, fewer barriers exist to absorb sound.

Are we hearing train horns more than before? Probably.

Are train crews sounding them simply to keep residents awake? Probably not.

These tracks existed long before most nearby homes and businesses. Anyone moving into the area should expect an active railroad.

In a sense, the public has built around the railroad, so it makes little sense to blame crews for loud horns and weather conditions that amplify them.

Speaking on the condition of anonymity, a longtime railroad employee put it this way:

“People assume train crews are cold and emotionless machine operators. They don’t know what it’s like to sit in that seat, knowing you are about to hit someone and can’t do anything but blow your horn.

“I can hit the brakes, but the train isn’t stopping for half a mile or more. So yeah — if I’m going through an area where I know there are homeless people camping along the tracks, I’m blowing that horn. A lot.”

______________

Jim Krause is a freelance writer living in Biddeford. He can be contacted at jiggyjim@live.com

Never miss another update! Subscribe for free today!

Turning a wrench and sparking imaginations

~ Randy Seaver ~ Leave a comment

The Apex Youth Connection in Biddeford offers a wide range of programs to help teens transition to adulthood

By RANDY SEAVER, Editor

It’s quite common to hear about after-school programs that get kids off the streets and into a productive, structured setting.

Apex Youth Connection (AYC) in Biddeford, however, takes a different approach to nurturing and empowering teens. Apex is all about getting kids on the street and engaged in their community.

APEX is a nonprofit organization that grew from rather humble roots and today serves hundreds of kids between the ages of 10 and 18 with after school programs between 3 and 6 p.m.; and a variety of free programs throughout the summer.

Founded in 2001, Apex was formerly known as the Community Bike Center (CBC), a project that began in founder Andy Greif’s garage, where kids could earn a bicycle by helping rebuild donated bicycles with spare parts.

Students learn valuable life skills while repairing and rebuilding bicycles at the Apex Youth Connection facility in Biddeford (Courtesy photo)

With broad support from the community, the CBC was able to grow and purchase its current facility on Granite Street in Biddeford. The property encompasses six acres, abutting Clifford Park. It includes a rock-climbing wall and a bike skills course.

Executive Director Michael Chapman said several programs have been added over the years. Apex today is much more than a clubhouse for kids who love to ride and work on bicycles, he said.

Chapman said the majority of kids served at Apex are students at either Biddeford Middle School or Saco Middle School.

 “That age group seems to be the real sweet spot for us,” Chapman said during a recent interview. “We are all about building relationships, teaching kids the skills they will need as adults.”

The organization’s mission statement is straightforward

“Apex is dedicated to enriching the lives of youth through hands-on activities and outdoor adventure, while fostering meaningful mentorships in an environment where every child feels safe and valued.”

Chapman says Apex relies on a wide range of community partners, local businesses and donors to keep their programs accessible for all kids.

“If you’re thinking about Giving Tuesday, we’d love to have your support,” Chapman said.

Chapman says Apex offers young people an opportunity to get a head start on job readiness, providing the larger community with young people who are prepared for workforce development.

“It’s about much more than turning a wrench,” Chapman said. “We teach responsibility, goal setting and even customer service. You cannot teach anyone unless they respect you. We earn that respect by empowering these kids.”

Sarah Hoover is the program manager at Apex, one of four full-time employees.

Hoover said Apex is constantly looking for community partnerships. “Our goal is to be embedded in the fabric of this community,” she said. “To do that, we rely on volunteers and community connections.”

“You cannot teach anyone unless
they respect you. We earn that respect
by empowering these kids.”

— Michael Chapman

Kids at Apex learn much more than about how to rebuild or repair bicycles. They learn about good behavior; and about being good citizens within the community.

Although Apex offers several different programs and events, they are perhaps best known for their Apex Bike Factory program.

The Bike Factory program is at the center of Apex’s ongoing activities and skills training programs and “is the core of our Job Readiness Program.”

The bike factory is a full-service bike shop run by middle and high school students and is open to the public for bicycle repairs and tune-ups.

“We’re able to provide work experience and skills that these kids can take forward into their adult lives,” Chapman says. “Every kid has a spark. You just need to light that spark and watch them grow into the person they were meant to be.”

_______________

Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be reached by email: randy@randyseaver.com

c.) 2025 All Rights Reserved

Never miss another update! Subscribe for free today!

Veterans Day 2025

~ Randy Seaver ~ 1 Comment

Scores of people braved chilly temperatures and biting winds to celebrate the annual Biddeford-Saco Veterans Day Parade on Tuesday.

This year’s ceremony featured the unveiling of the Gen. Wallace H. Nutting Memorial Bridge.

RELATED: Cities will dedicate bridge on Veterans Day

Gen. Wallace Nutting’s children attended the dedication ceremony of a bridge named in their father’s honor. (L-R) Sally Nutting Somes, John Nutting, Katherine Haughs and Elizabeth Hood.

Nutting’s four children were on hand for the dedication of the bridge at the base of York Hill.

This year’s parade featured marching bands from Thornton Academy, Biddeford High School, and Saco Middle School.

Members of the Biddeford High School marching band played Taps during the opening ceremony.
A small crowd on the Biddeford side of the bridge awaits the start of the annual parade
Local leaders pose with members of Gen. Nutting’s family moments after the bridge was dedicated (L-R) State Rep. Marshall Alexander (D-Saco), Saco Mayor Jodi MacPhail, State Rep. Marc Malon (D-Biddeford), Katherine Haughs, John Nutting, Sally Nutting Somes, Elizabeth Hood and Biddeford Mayor Marty Grohman (Randy Seaver photo)
Saco Mayor Jodi MacPhail and Biddeford Mayor Marty Grohman attended the ceremonies.
Members of Boy Scout Troop 310 raised the American flag

Boys & Girls Club gets ‘big surprise’

~ Randy Seaver ~ Leave a comment

Contributed Story/ Special to the Gazette

Members of the Southern Maine Boys & Girls Club got a special surprise on Wednesday when they were presented with a new passenger van to support the many programs the Club offers to area youth.

The van was donated by Bridgestone Retail Operations as part of an ongoing celebration to mark the opening of the company’s first Firestone Complete Auto Care store in Maine, located on the Alfred Road in Biddeford.

Community members, Bridgestone/Firestone officials and representatives from the Boys & Girls Club of Southern Maine celebrate the donation of a new passenger van. (Courtesy photo)

Company officials said the new van will provide Club kids with transportation to and from their clubhouses and other enrichment activities, addressing one of the biggest hurdles families face and giving more kids and teens access to high-impact, out-of-school programming.

The donation is part of the Bridgestone Driving Great Futures initiative, which has raised nearly $30 million to help kids and teens gain access to Boys & Girls Club resources across the United States since 2015.

The company’s partnership is currently celebrating 10 years of impact with major donations, special giving campaigns and unique engagement opportunities for Club kids throughout the remainder of the year.

Speakers at the event included Brian C. Elowe, CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of Southern Maine and Patrick Cassella, region manager of Bridgestone Retail Operations.

According to their website, the Boys & Girls Club of Southern Maine includes five Club locations serving Greater Portland and the Lewiston/Auburn area.

Kids from the Boys & Girls Club of Southern Maine check out their new passenger van (Courtesy photo)

The Boys & Girls Club of Southern Maine was founded in 1909 and has nearly  2,000 members between the ages of six and 18 attending the clubs each year.

The organization’s staff works to ensure that “the Clubs are safe places for our members to learn, grow and have fun.”

Among other programs and services, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Southern Maine prioritize Club members’ academic success by providing after school and summer programs to elementary, middle and high school students.

“We work to ensure Club members stay on track to graduate from high school and leave our Clubs with a plan for their future,” reads their website. “Our programs include homework help, tutoring, STEM programs, coding, and career and college exploration and preparation.”

____________

Send your community news or events to BiddefordGazette@gmail.com

NEVER MISS ANOTHER UPDATE! SUBSCRIBE FOR FREE TODAY!

Pumpkins will fly and smash in Dayton

~ Randy Seaver ~ Leave a comment

You may have heard about the Great Pumpkin, but have you ever seen a pumpkin fly hundreds of feet through the air and smash into a thousand pieces?

Well, get ready because the much anticipated 22nd annual Pumpkin Chunkin event will take place on Sunday (Nov. 2) across the road from Andy’s Farm and Garden store on the River Road, just beyond the town line in Dayton.

The event begins at 1 p.m.

Andy Cole rigs one of the two catapults he will be using for Sunday’s event (courtesy photo)

Since 2003, Cole has delighted spectators with his home-built catapults and “air cannons” launching pumpkins hundreds of feet into the air and across a pastoral field.

“It is a lot of fun,” Cole laughed. “And it seems to be growing in popularity each year.”

According to one of the event vendors, “Pumpkin Chunkin is the must attend event of the year and your chance to seek revenge on pumpkin spice everything and Halloween.”

“The sound of the pumpkins launching brings anticipation, the sight and sounds of the pumpkins hurtling to earth smashing into thousands of pieces brings satisfaction,” reads an Instagram post from the No Bowl Empty Pet Food Pantry.

The two-hour event will begin at 1 p.m., and will feature food vendors, including The Hot Dog Lady and maple-flavored soft-serve ice cream.

“Pumpkin Chunkin is your chance
to seek revenge on pumpkin spice
everything and Halloween.”

— No Bowl Empty pet food pantry

The charity event benefits both the No Bowl Empty pet food pantry and the York County Shelters Food Pantry. Attendees are asked to consider bringing a non-perishable human or pet food donation.

In a previous interview with this reporter, Cole said he first got the idea for building the catapults from watching shows on the Discovery and History channels.

“I thought to myself, man, I could build one of those,” he said. (Laughs) “It took me about a year, and we first tied it out in 2003.

“We had about 25 people come to watch. We quickly found out what worked and what didn’t work. (Laughs) One pumpkin went straight up into the air, over our heads and everyone had to scramble out of the way.” (Laughs).

“It’s pretty cool to watch the kids’ expressions when they see the pumpkins launched. We also have an air cannon now to launch smaller pumpkins. It’s a lot of fun.”

_________________

Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be reached by email: randy@randyseaver.com

c.) 2025 All Rights Reserved

Never miss another update! Subscribe for free today!

Biddeford Education Foundation raises more than $20K to help students

~ Karen Garnett ~ Leave a comment

By KAREN GARNETT, Contributing Writer

The Biddeford Education Foundation (BEF) held its Eighth Annual Pillars of Pride event to honor two remarkable community members: longtime educator Joyce Tarpy and local photographer Maureen Grandmaison. The celebration, hosted at The Lincoln Hotel in Biddeford, raised over $20,000 for the Foundation, which provides resources outside the school budget to enhance learning opportunities, assists students in need of food, clothing, and shelter, and supports teacher mini-grants to maximize opportunities for students Pre-K through Grade 12.  

The event began with a welcome from BEF President Shelley Kane, who expressed gratitude to the evening’s sponsors, local businesses, and community members for their generous contributions. Kane reminded attendees that the Pillars of Pride celebration is more than just a night of recognition—it is the Foundation’s primary fundraiser and a vital source of support for Biddeford students.

The Biddeford Education Foundation honored longtime educator Joyce Tarpy (right) and photographer Maureen Grandmaison (center), pictured with Biddeford School Department Superintendent Jeremy Ray (left), at its Eighth Annual Pillars of Pride event on October 18, 2025. 

“These are difficult times for many families, with housing and food insecurity at record highs,” Kane shared. “In Biddeford Schools alone, we have 134 students experiencing homelessness—an increase of nearly 300 percent in just five years. Thanks to the generosity of donors and events like Pillars of Pride, we can respond quickly when families need help and ensure students have access to opportunities that make learning meaningful.”

“These are difficult times
for many families”

— Shelley Kane, BEF president

Funds raised by the Foundation have had a powerful impact across the district, helping students and teachers alike. BEF has served 220 students through funding the Backpack Program and after-school snack programs, prevented homelessness of 51 students through emergency rent relief, assisted 36 families from having their utilities disconnected, provided winter clothing for all students in need, partnered to provide 103 families with Thanksgiving meals, and awarded teacher mini-grants benefiting 1,651 students by bring creativity and innovation into the classroom. Recent mini-grant projects have included implementing a Unified Bocce Ball team to promote inclusion, a bird-watching initiative that allowed students to study local ecosystems firsthand, as well as hands-on art collaborations that connected creativity with community service.

“This event was a wonderful reminder of how much stronger we are when community members step forward to share their gifts,” said Superintendent Jeremy Ray. “Joyce and Maureen are the kind of people who make a lasting mark—not because they seek recognition, but because they show up, time and again, for our students and staff. Their care, generosity, and quiet leadership embody the very best of Biddeford. The success of this event reflects the spirit of Biddeford and the pride we all share in helping every child thrive.”

“This event was a wonderful reminder
of how much stronger we
are when community members
step forward to share their gifts.”

— Supt. Jeremy Ray

Following the Superintendent’s remarks, honorees Joyce Tarpy and Maureen Grandmaison were recognized with silver plaques that will be displayed in their honor—Tarpy’s at Biddeford High School’s Tiger Gym, where seniors take their final graduation walk, and Grandmaison’s at Waterhouse Field, where she has spent countless hours photographing student milestones. Both women shared heartfelt remarks reflecting on their deep connection to the community, Biddeford students, and their gratitude for the recognition.

The ability to help our local families in need through this major fundraiser is made possible thanks to the following: Diamond Sponsor – Jim Godbout Plumbing & Heating and Provencher Fuels; Gold Sponsors – Maine Community Bank and Saco & Biddeford Savings; Silver Sponsors – Locke & Sons Plumbing & Heating, PeoplesChoice Credit Union, and The Lincoln Hotel; Bronze Sponsors – Bergen & Parkinson LLC, Brown Dog Carriers and Logistics, Great Falls Construction, Rotary Club of Biddeford-Saco, and Saco Veterinary Walk-In Care & Animal Hospital of Saco; Black & Orange Sponsors – Academy of Dance, Atlantic Federal Credit Union, Diverse Anecdote, Kennebunk Savings Bank, Randy Forcier/CMG Home Loans, Rousseau Insurance Agency, and Saco House of Pizza; and the many local businesses and individuals who donated to the silent auction.  

Through the continued generosity of sponsors, donors, and attendees, the Biddeford Education Foundation remains committed to fostering innovation in classrooms, supporting families, and ensuring every student has the opportunity to succeed—academically and beyond. For more information about the Biddeford Education Foundation, contact BEF President Shelley Kane at 207-391-6885.

Karen Garnett is Director of Communications for Biddeford, Saco and Dayton schools. She can be reached at kgarnett@biddefordschools.me

NEVER MISS ANOTHER UPDATE! SUBSCRIBE FOR FREE TODAY!

Ready to have some BiddeFUN?

~ Randy Seaver ~ Leave a comment

By EMMA BOUTHILLETTE, Contributing writer

Once listed among Food & Wine’s Next Great Food Cities, Biddeford does not disappoint when it comes to the food and beverage scene. But between eats, treats and sips, what’s there to do in and around downtown? The answer is PLENTY!

Rift Arcade or The Gutter will take you back to simpler times. Rift Arcade features 40 coin-operated games from pinball to Pac-Man and everything in between with the mission to be an inclusive, affordable, and safe space for all ages.

Bowling on Main Street at The Gutter in Biddeford (Main Street Maine photo)

While you try to best the top scores, enjoy a curated cocktail from the full-service bar or elevated 1990s-inspired grub. If you’re passionate about arcade games and supporting a local business, you can buy into Rift’s NuMarket Campaign and get 120 percent back in credits to redeem (buy-in for $100, get $120 credits).

The Gutter takes a bigger step back in history, turning the first level of the historic Marble Block Building into a mid-century modern delight with wooden paneling, stained glass pendant lights over the bar, and eight classic 10-pin bowling lanes. The full-service bar and kitchen makes it a great place to strike up some fun.

Interested in catching some live entertainment, there are several well established businesses with a weekly roster for you to choose from. If you haven’t heard about it yet, the Rumors are true.

Upstairs from Mulligan’s, Rumors offers live shows Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights, featuring a wide array of musical genres. If you’re looking for a laugh, The Comedy Mill might be more your speed. Also located at Mulligan’s, The Comedy Mill hosts open-mic nights for local standups to take a spin at getting laughs, but has also hosted events for nationally-known comics like Connor McGrath.

Just around the corner, Champions Sports Bar offers a little bit of everything for entertainment, including karaoke, trivia, DJ dance parties, and live local music. It’s also a great place to catch your favorite New England teams on the big screens or the flat screens.

While you’re distracted by the wide selection of books at Elements waiting for your morning cup to be poured, you may have missed that they host live local music every Friday and Saturday evening, as well as social events Thursday evenings and Saturday afternoons. These curated events foster community while you sip a barista crafted beverage or a selection from the beer and wine list. Other businesses in town offering live music, trivia nights, karaoke, and more, include Cowbell, Lucky Pigeon Brewing Co., Banded Brewing, and Sacred Profane.

Tour the Riverwalk in Biddeford (City of Biddeford photo)

When the weather is nice, there are plenty of adventures to be had with the kids following the River Walk or the trails at Clifford Park, exploring tidepools at our beaches, or enjoying one of the playgrounds and recreation facilities at Clifford Park, Rotary Park, Mayfield, or J. Richard Martin Community Center.

For those rainy, cold, or snowy days, however, head to The playLOT with your littles. In addition to several structured events throughout the week, this indoor playground offers endless fun and a place for parents to connect. Another great option for bigger littles is Mill Studio Arts. Miss Amy has curated an array of lessons and camps great for the creative kids and teens, with some workshops for the whole family and some just for adults too.

Another great place to explore is McArthur Library, which offers more than books for all ages. The wonderful librarians have curated daily events like educational workshops and book clubs to family-friendly activities and cultural programs. And if you have a library card, you can borrow more than books; check out digital books and audiobooks via Cloud Library and Hoopla, magazines, movies, music, comics, video games, and recreational equipment like fishing poles, snowshoes, lawn games, a telescope, binoculars, WiFi hotspots and more.

If learning about the city is more your speed, there are a few tour opportunities, each with a unique spin. The Biddeford Culinary Walking Tour features our food and beverage scene, combining the tastes of the town with its history, culture, and hometown stories. The Biddeford Mills Tour gives you a deeper look inside the mill buildings, with background on the textile industry and the workforce that populated the city. You can also delve deeper into the history at the Biddeford Mills Museum.

Learn about Biddeford’s history on a Biddeford Mills Tour (Photo: Main Street Maine)

You can also enjoy a slice of Biddeford history at one of the many stellar shows hosted by the City Theater. With its story dating back to 1860, the John Calvin Stevens designed theater is an iconic landmark dedicated to celebrating performance arts.

________

Emma Bouthillette, a special contributor on behalf of Heart of Biddeford is a marketer, writer, yoga instructor, corgi mom, and native of Biddeford, Maine. In addition to publishing A Brief History of Biddeford with The History Press in 2017, her byline has appeared in the Portland Press Herald, Maine Women Magazine, and several other Maine-based publications.

Biddeford girl finds passion in gymnastics

~ Randy Seaver ~ Leave a comment

[CONTRIBUTED STORY]

Marie Metcalf, 12, of Biddeford, has been named the STAR Student of September at Maine Connections Academy, a tuition-free online public school serving students in grades 7-12 statewide.

Marie began her first year at Maine Connections Academy as a 7th grader this year, and she couldn’t be happier as she balances online schooling and her ongoing passion for competing in gymnastics. 

For the last four years, Marie has grown increasingly passionate about gymnastics.

What started as an athletic and creative outlet has turned into nine to 11 hours a week of dedicated training and practice. After her first year, she was invited to be on the team at Dudziak’s Gymnastics.

This year, Marie reached the gold level and is allowed to use her creativity and build her own floor routine. Marie and her family are excited to see heads turn at her first gold performance in November. 

(Marie Metcalf, Contributed photo)

In her previous brick-and-mortar school setting, Marie was finding it difficult to dedicate enough time and attention to her educational needs while still allowing time to pursue her passion for gymnastics.

So, her family turned to Maine Connections Academy for the next step in her education. After only the first three weeks of classes, Marie’s mother, Lisa, saw the difference: “She is more engaged with her teachers, more engaged in the work, and is starting better study habits already.”

“We hope to hear more inspiring stories as she builds her career as a competitive gymnast locally, regionally, and potentially nationally one day,” said her instructors.

_______________

About Maine Connections Academy:

Maine Connections Academy opened in 2014, and is a unique, tuition-free, online public school for students in grades 7-12 with 500 students enrolled. Authorized by the Maine Charter School Commission, Maine Connections Academy offers a high-quality educational experience that keeps students motivated and engaged in a safe, virtual learning environment. In addition to academics, teachers focus on building fundamental life skills, working closely with families to help students learn how they learn best. Here, students gain the skills and confidence they need to direct their own educational journey, learning to thrive in the real world by first learning how to be resourceful and resilient. For more information, call 1-833-591-0251 or visit www.MaineConnectionsAcademy.com.

New cookie business opens in Biddeford

~ Randy Seaver ~ 1 Comment

In a modest, second-floor apartment on Alfred Street, Zimra Winters is making his dream come true.

Winters, 29, has a daytime job working as a baker at Rover Bagel in Biddeford. But his real passion is cookies – cookies so delicious that after your first bite, you may think you have died and gone to heaven.

Earlier this week, Winters formally launched his own small business – Thank You Cookie Box, a boutique, mini bakery he operates in his own kitchen with a standard oven that you would find in most homes.

Zimra Winters of Biddeford shows off a tray of his artisan cookies that are made in his own kitchen. (Seaver photo)

Winters says he cleared all the hurdles necessary before launching his business, including inspections by the city’s code enforcement office and a state inspection.

“This is something I have wanted to do for as long as I can remember,” Winters said. “When I was just 10 years old, I would bake cookies and sell them at the end of our driveway.”

Winters is truly passionate about cookies.

“I like how they look, and especially how they smell” he said.

Although the focus is on making handmade cookies from scratch with local ingredients, Winters points out that a standard artisan box of cookies comes in a recyclable cardboard box with eco-friendly wrapping.

Photo from the company’s website

“It really does make the perfect thank you gift for individuals or companies,” Winter says. According to their website, giving someone a custom-made box of cookies is “an effortless, consistent and customizable way to show gratitude.”

Winters says he can add a company’s logo to each gift box and provides online ordering and free delivery in the Biddeford-Saco area.

Thank You Cookies come in four signature flavors with a gourmet twist, including:

Chocolate Chunk – Fudgy soft with a rich brown butter flavor and generous chunks of milk chocolate – an elegant twist on the classic cookie;

Birthday Cake – A buttery vanilla sugar cookie is studded with creamy white chocolate chips and bright sprinkles for a birthday party in every bite

Red Velvet Crinkle – A delicate dusting of powdered sugar tops this velvet soft cocoa cookie on a local version of the classic red velvet cake;

Snickerdoodle – The timeless snickerdoodle with a rich brown butter flavor that perfectly complements the warm cinnamon.

Winters is also proud of his new company’s commitment to sustainability. Each cookie is individually wrapped in biodegradable cellophane sleeves to keep it fresh and soft for over a week while also reducing single-use plastic waste.

While Zimra is the cookie expert, his partner Katie Schraeder handles all other aspects of the new business. “We make a good team,” Winters said.

“I hope that someday we can expand this business,” he said. “For now, we’ll just have to see how it goes.”

For more information about Thank You Cookie Box, please visit their website.

__________

Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be reached by email at randy@randyseaver.com

Never miss another update! Subscribe for free today!

Turning addiction into something positive

~ Randy Seaver ~ 1 Comment

Ryan Paige grew up in Biddeford, and he has now taken the worst part of his life and turned it into a resource that has helped hundreds of people achieve sobriety all across Maine.

Paige, 43, has been sober and drug-free since 2019. Flash forward six years, and he is now running a statewide non-profit organization dedicated to helping others achieve sobriety.

“I would not be able to do this if I hadn’t gone through all the pain and my own poor decision making,” he said. “My own past, including incarcerations and all sorts of other stuff, has allowed me to build a reserve of empathy for others who are struggling.”

As part of his own recovery process, Paige started an informal support network to help those who want to pursue recovery.

Ryan Paige talks about the recovery network that he built from the ground up (Seaver photo)

At first, it was just him and his cell phone, interacting with people he met on the street. People he knew. People his friends knew.

Over time, the calls increased . . . dramatically.

“It was just word of mouth,” he said during a recent interview. “I was just staying busy, focusing on helping others, which is a big part of the recovery process.”

Before he knew it, Paige was helping people by driving them to recovery facilities between Kittery and Caribou.

“In the beginning, I was getting maybe 20 calls a month from people seeking help in their own recovery journey,” he said. “Before too long, that turned into a hundred calls a month.”

Today, Paige’s non-profit organization fields between 800 and 1,000 calls per month.

The AccessDirect Recovery Network partners with several other non-profit service providers across the state, including Opportunity Alliance, Spurwink and the Seeds of Hope Neighborhood Resource Center. Paige said.

“Our phones are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week,” he said.

“I would not be able to do this
if I hadn’t gone through
all the pain and my own
poor decision making,”

— Ryan Paige

Paige said he would not be able to do what he is now doing without the help of his wife, Cynthia.

“She’s the business part of it,” he explained. “She does all the office stuff and so much more.”

Ryan and Cynthia were able to transform AccessDirect into a stand-alone non-profit organization. From there, Cynthia was able to apply for grant money to help keep the network running.

“I was doing everything out of my own pocket,” Ryan explained.” The expenses can add up quickly.”

Just two months ago, AccessDirect was able to secure a $500,000 grant from the Maine Recovery Council, the agency that was charged with dispersing Maine’s share of the federal opiate settlement funds provided by several pharmaceutical companies.

Ryan and Cynthia are using that money to add staff for their inbound call center, which is based in Biddeford. They are now also able to reimburse mileage expenses for their volunteer drivers.

AccessDirect has worked closely with the Biddeford Police Department and the city of Biddeford.

Paige says he has been asked to help train police officers about dealing with addicts and those struggling to achieve sobriety.

He also credits former Mayor Alan Casavant and current Mayor Marty Grohman for helping his organization grow and provide services.

In fact, Paige says City Council President Liam LaFountain was proactive in reaching out to learn how the city could support the recovery network.

Paige feels a strong connection to his hometown of Biddeford, which is why his organization is headquartered in the city.

“This is where I grew up,” he said. “These are the same streets where I was using.”

“None of this would be possible if I hadn’t lived through the darkest time of my life,” Paige said. “I was sick, desperate and hopeless. Today, I can leverage that part of my life to help others who are struggling.

“That’s the whole point,” he said.

To learn more about AccessDirect, please visit their website at accessdirectrecovery.org

_________________

Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be contacted by email: randy@randyseaver.com

NEVER MISS ANOTHER UPDATE! Subscribe for free today!

Get on the bus! Check out ‘Childish Things’

~ Randy Seaver ~ 1 Comment

Why run from your problems, when you can drive?

Although they are not yet as famous as the Coen brothers, Cash and Nick Cassidy are already making quite a splash in the world of independent (indie) filmmaking.

Their latest film – Childish Things – will kick off this year’s Vacationland Film Festival at City Theater in Biddeford on Thursday, August 21.

The movie’s tagline – ‘Why run from your problems, when you can drive?’ —encapsulates the 95-minute film’s premise, preparing the viewer for what could be described as a gritty docudrama.

In his publicly released director’s commentary, Nick Cassidy explains the film’s essence.

“I like to call Childish Things a “coming-of-more-age” story because, let’s face it, movie characters tend to come of age before graduating high school, but for many people, me included, it took a bit longer,” the elder Cassidy said.

The film is about a 30-year-old musician who is facing pressure from his girlfriend to get engaged. Thus, he embarks on a cross-country road trip to sell his beloved tour bus.

Childish Things kicks off this year’s Vacationland Film Festival at City Theater

During that jaunt across America – from Portland, Maine to Los Angeles, Calif., –the main character is forced to question whether he really wants to marry his girlfriend, especially after he meets a free-spirited woman near Nashville.

We caught up with the Cassidy brothers this week to ask them about their film, the vitality of the indie-film world and how technology, including AI, has impacted movie making.

Cash Cassidy, 22, is the film’s producer. In addition to editing the film, he was also in charge of the lighting, sound and location management.

Nick Cassidy, 32, is the film’s director and also portrayed one of the lead characters in the movie.

“We basically figured most of it out as we moved through it,” Cash explains. “We had a friend with a small bus. He was already planning a road trip across country, so we jumped on that opportunity.”

Today, even independent films not produced by major studios can still cost millions of dollars to produce.

While Cash and Nick did not have access to that kind of money, they relied on resources they already had available to them, such as free software that is available on the internet.

Cash and Nick Cassidy say new technology empowers people to produce quality independent films. (Seaver photo)

To say their budget was bare bones is an understatement.

“I was able to tap in to some of my college funds because I described the project as an independent study endeavor,” Cash said. “I already had a camera, and was able to borrow some other equipment.”

In order to take advantage of their friend’s planned trip across the United States, the brothers found themselves on a tight timeline that only allowed three months for planning and pre-production.

The Cassidy brothers did a lot of improvising to make the film possible.

In fact, some of their primary casting was done via Instagram, where they met Guinevere Berthelot of Nashville.

In her video audition for the role, Berthelot placed her laptop on the floor and then roller-skated from across to the room to participate in an online Zoom audition.

“We felt the connection immediately,” Nick Cassidy said. “We knew she was perfect – exactly what we were hoping for.”

The brothers say they were both surprised that Berthelot agreed to join them on a road trip across the country simply after an online Instagram meeting.”

Nick said the film’s vibe required all the actors to be in character throughout the filming even when cameras were not rolling.

“We were looking for authenticity,” he explained. “Some of the scenes are pretty emotional and we wanted the viewers to be fully engaged, wondering whether what they are watching is a true story or a made-up adventure.”

Cash, who began making movies when he was eight years old, described Childish Things as “guerilla filmmaking.”

“We wanted the viewers to be
fully engaged, wondering whether
what they are watching is
a true story or a made-up adventure.”

— Nick Cassidy

“We wanted all the elements and the true sense of an indie film,” he said. “We weren’t looking for polish. We were looking for a raw connection that would fully engage our audience.”

Principle shooting of the film’s scenes took two weeks of filming: two days of footage in South Portland, 10 days of shooting across the country and then two more days of shooting in Los Angeles.

In all, the brothers accumulated roughly 25 hours-worth of footage, which Cash edited into a 95-minute movie.

“Today, thanks to technology, just about anyone can make a movie,” Nick explained. “You no longer need a big budget to make a feature film. Audiences are craving things that are not glossy.”

Asked about the impact of AI (Artificial Intelligence) in the movie industry, both Nick and Cash said the only thing that really matters is “having the ability to tell a really good story.”

For more information about the upcoming Vacationland Film Festival, please visit vacationlandfilmfestival.com

Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be contacted by email: randy@randyseaver.com

NEVER MISS ANOTHER UPDATE! Subscribe for free today!

BHS Champions recognized by city leaders

~ Randy Seaver ~ 1 Comment

The Biddeford City Council Chamber came alive with excitement Tuesday as members of the state champion high school baseball team filed into the room amidst a buzz of respect and admiration.

Biddeford Mayor Marty Grohman said, “today is a proud day for Biddeford,” as the players and coaches stood against the wall, holding the giant golden-baseball glove trophy.

Players and coaches from the 2025 State Championship Biddeford Tigers Baseball Team pose with Biddeford Mayor Marty Grohman and members of the city council (Seaver photo)

On June 21 this year, the BHS Tigers rallied from two three-run deficits to beat Mt. Ararat and win their first state championship since 1984.

During a previous interview with the Gazette, Coach Keith LeBlanc described his team, which includes seven seniors, as “battle-tested” and always ready to play their hearts out.

On Tuesday, LeBlanc once again referred to his players as “some of the hardest working young men I have ever met.”

LeBlanc pointed out that his team was also recognized with the statewide Sportsmanship Award. “That is something that is pretty impressive,” LeBlanc told the crowd. “Generally, that award is given to a team that has put in a lot of effort but came up short in the playoffs.”

Team Captain Landon Sirois presents Mayor Grohman with a jersey featuring the signatures of every member of the Championship Team (Seaver Photo)

From across the room, someone yelled out. “Don’t forget to mention you were named as coach of the year!”

“The community support we received was nothing less than amazing,” LeBlanc told the mayor and council. “It is something I will never forget.”

Councilor Neva Gross described her excitement while watching the state championship game. “We were all so pumped,” she said. “We had so much fun, cheering them on, and Marty was right there, keeping the fans focused and excited,” she said, gesturing toward the mayor.

The entire team and all the coaches posed for a photo with the mayor and council.

On her way out of the chamber, one person was heard, saying, “I’m just so damn proud of these boys. They worked so hard for this.”

————

Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be contacted by email: randy@randyseaver.com

NEVER MISS ANOTHER UPDATE! Subscribe for free today!

Should Mainers be concerned by shark sightings?

~ Randy Seaver ~ 1 Comment

By JULIA TILTON, Maine Monitor

John Chisholm has been interested in sharks as long as he can remember. Growing up in Plymouth, Mass. in the 1970s, he spent a lot of time searching for great whites on his dad’s commercial fishing boat. 

An adjunct scientist at the New England Aquarium’s Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life, Chisholm wasn’t the first in his family to take an interest in great white sharks. In 1921, Chisholm’s great-great grandfather caught white sharks on Prince Edward Island in mackerel nets while working as a lighthouse keeper.

Chisholm spent summers on Prince Edward Island as a kid and heard that story from his grandparents. Now, he says there’s scientific evidence, including fossil shark teeth, that white sharks have long been swimming in northern waters.

A great white shark swims off the coast of Cape Cod in 2021. Photo courtesy Kyle Oliveira.

“White sharks have always been here. They predate colonization by Europeans,” said Chisholm. “So it’s kind of frustrating when you see people saying they’re now moving into Canadian waters. They’ve always been in Canadian waters. They’ve always been in Maine waters.”

The presence of sharks are an indicator of an ecosystem’s good health, according to shark biologist Kyle Oliveira, a Ph.D. candidate at the University of Maine and Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences. Between the late 1800s and mid 1900s, the white shark population took a hit due to overfishing, meaning there were less recorded sightings of white sharks along the East Coast.

Thanks to protection measures like the Shark Finning Prohibition Act of 2000 and Shark Conservation Act of 2010, which make it illegal to remove shark fins from sharks at sea and promote sustainable shark management, those who track white sharks are beginning to see the populations recover. 

As with any predator, sharks will tend to go where the food is. That could be one factor driving the sightings reported in Casco Bay in July. Both Chisholm and Oliveira pointed to a high concentration of striped bass in the Gulf of Maine, which is a source of prey for sharks. 

“Everybody thinks the sharks are here for seals,” Chisholm said. While catching a seal is a “metabolic windfall” full of the lipid-rich nutrients adult sharks need, the predators have plenty of other food sources, too. Juvenile and sub-adult sharks tend to feed on schools of fish, according to Oliveira, who said recent research has found younger sharks are often the ones visiting Maine.

When it comes to finding food, Oliveira said convenience is key. “White sharks are really lazy animals, and they try and get whatever meal is gonna be easiest for them to catch,” Oliveira said. One favorite is a floating whale carcass because it provides easy access for sharks to chomp off pieces of blubber, another source of lipids. 

Independent of shark population numbers, technology may be another driver of reported white shark sightings. When Chisholm started tracking white sharks in the Atlantic in the late 1970s, he’d hear about sightings second or third hand. He’d spend weeks, months, or occasionally years tracking down witnesses to interview them about what they thought they saw, being careful not to ask leading questions that would sway the answers one way or another. 

“White sharks are really lazy animals,
and they try and get whatever meal
is gonna be easiest for them to catch,”

— Kyle Oliveira

“In 1985 I might have only had three sightings for that year. That doesn’t mean there were only three white sharks. It just means I tracked down three people that saw them,” Chisholm said. 

Nowadays, Chisholm opens up social media to track sightings across videos and photos posted to Instagram and X. Many of those sightings turn out to be basking sharks rather than white sharks, but the information contributes to data on multiple shark species and their behavior throughout New England.  

Through his role at the New England Aquarium, Chisholm is also responsible for verifying shark sightings reported on the Sharktivity app. The app is a form of citizen science, allowing witnesses to contribute to a growing database that helps inform work done by researchers across the region.

As of July 31 this year, there have been 15 confirmed sightings of white sharks off of Maine’s coast, with one sighting reported as far north as Camden.

In addition to reporting shark sightings on the app, Chisholm recommended that those who spot a shark contact their local harbor masters with the location and time of the sighting. 

Doing so can help spread awareness and reduce paranoia. One rule of thumb is to avoid swimming with the bait, Chisholm said. Beyond that, Oliveira encouraged beachgoers to remember that the ocean is home for sharks.

“It’s a sign of a healthy, productive ecosystem, so having white sharks around is a really good thing,” Oliveira said.

As the climate changes, researchers like Oliveira are working to understand how white sharks will be affected. Sea surface temperatures in the Gulf of Maine are warming faster than 99 percent of the global ocean as a result of climate change, yet sharks can regulate their internal body temperature and find suitable habitat in waters ranging from 37-89 degrees Fahrenheit.

What’s unclear, Oliveira said, is how lower levels of the food chain will fare under changing conditions. Impacts there could eventually work their way up to white sharks at the top.

Note: This story was originally published by The Maine Monitor, a nonprofit and nonpartisan news organization. To get regular coverage from The Monitor, sign up for a free Monitor newsletter here.

_______________

ABOUT THE REPORTER: Julia Tilton is a freelance reporter covering climate and the environment, contributing to The Maine Monitor and The Daily Yonder. At the latter, she co-hosts the Keep it Rural podcast, a biweekly podcast that digs into the nuance of the latest science and politics news impacting rural America.

Julia previously worked on NASA’s Curious Universe podcast and her reporting has been featured in news outlets from Nashville to Mexico. She grew up in southern New Hampshire and is partial to the mountains and forests of the Northeast.

Contact Julia via email: juliatilton@gmail.com

‘For Biddeford’ event draws 150 volunteers

~ Randy Seaver ~ Leave a comment

By JUSTIN SWEENEY, New Life Church, Lead Pastor

(Photos by Joe McKenney)

On Saturday, July 12, New Life Church hosted its 8th annual “For Biddeford” event, a citywide serve day where close to 150 volunteers spread out across Biddeford to complete 10 service projects to bless the community.

For Biddeford is built on a simple but compelling idea: our city should be better because of the Christians worshiping in it. We believe the church should be known for who we are for, not simply what we are against.

We are “for” our city and the families who call it home.

For Biddeford is just one of the many ways we hope to reflect the love of Jesus in practical, tangible ways right here in our city.

This year’s projects included trail maintenance at Clifford and Rotary parks, painting at the J. Richard Martin Community Center and Memorial Park, deep cleaning the Biddeford Food Pantry, free hot dogs to the public, and lunch for first responders (police and fire).

What made this year’s ForBiddeford especially exciting was a sneak peek into The Reach, the church’s upcoming community center set to launch at the end of this summer.

Located at 118 Alfred Street, The Reach will serve as a hub of connection and support for individuals and families in the surrounding neighborhoods.

To learn more about ForBiddeford, visit www.forbiddeford.com

Bringing a bit of southeast Asia to Biddeford

~ Randy Seaver ~ Leave a comment

Almost two years ago, Sima and Breese Reagle opened their sandwich store on Main Street in Biddeford with a simple mission: to bring the flavors of Cambodia to southern Maine.

In just a short amount of time, the BiddoBanh shop has built a loyal fan and customer base.

Breese and Sima Reagle help a customer inside their shop at 299 Main Street

But like many other downtown merchants, Breese and Sima also say their business has been adversely impacted by an ongoing sewer upgrade project that sometimes snarls traffic but is often exaggerated on social media.

“On the positive side, we have seen a significant uptick in people using DoorDash and other delivery options,” Breese explains. “But overall, our business is down.”

When asked what people should know about their business, Sima smiles and says “We’re just two people who like to cook and share our food.”

In addition to running their shop, Breese and Simi both enjoy being part of the larger community and collaborating with other merchants.

BiddoBanh participated in last month’s Juneteenth celebration and were also at the most recent Confetti Bazaar in downtown Biddeford.

“We’re just two people who like
to cook and share our food.”

–Sima Reagle

“We really like being part of this community,” Sima says. “We’re not Portland, and we’re conscious of that. We’re part of the working class, and while we always strive to offer the highest quality food, we also work really hard to keep our prices affordable.”

So, what can you expect to find at BiddoBanh? Their summer menu features Cha lobster, a lemongrass falafel and Cambodian-style shaved ice.

Other menu items include a wide array of rice bowls, such as a ginger soy-glazed chicken bowl that is served with pickled vegetables and fresh cucumber.

“If there’s one thing that brings people together, it’s food,” Sima laughed.

BiddoBanh is closed on Tuesdays, but open every other day from 11.a.m. to 6 p.m.

You can learn more about BiddoBanh by visiting their website at https://biddobanh.com/

Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be contacted by email: randy@randyseaver.com

NEVER MISS ANOTHER UPDATE! Subscribe for free today!

Biddeford Tigers will face Mt. Ararat Eagles for Class A state championship

~ Randy Seaver ~ 1 Comment

In just a few hours, fourteen young men from Biddeford will create a memory that they will likely never forget.

Tomorrow, the Biddeford High School Tigers (15-4) will face the Mount Ararat Eagles (17-3) in the Class A Maine State Championship baseball game.

The game begins at 1 p.m. Saturday at St. Joseph’s College in Standish.

Photo by Joe McKenney Photography)

BHS Coach Keith LeBlanc says that his team, which includes seven seniors, is “battle-tested” and ready to play their hearts out on Saturday.

“I am very proud of these players,” LeBlanc said during a brief interview on Thursday.

LeBlanc took over as the Tigers’ head coach in 2012. He has seen a lot of games, but says his current team really stands out – both in performance and attitude.

Saturday’s game will be LeBlanc’s first state championship match-up. He says he and his players are taking nothing for granted.

“These players have faced many high-pressure situations,” LeBlanc said. “I am confident in them, but we’re not easing up even an inch before this game.”

LeBlanc said the Eagles (the No. 1 seed team in the north) will likely offer a formidable challenge to the Tigers.

“They [the Eagles] are very similar to us,” LeBlanc said. “They have strong pitching and an overall solid defense.”

The 2025 BHS Tigers team will face the Mt. Ararat Eagles in Saturday’s Class A state championship game at Dt. Joeseph’s College (Joe McKenney Photography)

Speaking of defense, LeBlanc says sophomore Ernie Dore will lead off the mound for the Tigers. Dore is a second-team, all-conference pitcher.

LeBlanc is also expecting strong performances from the team’s co-captains, Gavin Haggett and Landon Sirois, both first-team, all-conference players.

Haggett will be attending Stonehill College in the fall, and Sirois will be attending Southern Maine Community College.

LeBlanc said he considers himself lucky to be this team’s coach.

“Every team is a good team,” he said. “But there is something special about these players. It’s their humility and willingness to push themselves.”

According to LeBlanc, the players have created their own motto: “Stay humble.”

Randy Seaver is the editor and founder of the Biddeford Gazette. He may be contacted by email: randy@randyseaver.com

NEVER MISS ANOTHER UPDATE! Subscribe for free today!

Biddeford’s Juneteenth Celebration a success

~ Randy Seaver ~ Leave a comment

By Emma Bouthillette, Contributing writer

Maine still holds the title for the whitest state in the country, but as historian and retired journalist Bob Greene is quick to point out, Black history has deep roots in Maine. Greene was welcomed as the keynote speaker at Biddeford’s Juneteenth Celebration, hosted by the city’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Committee in partnership with Heart of Biddeford and the Maine Black Chamber of Commerce. 

Coco Corral, owner of Loving Anvil, has lived in Biddeford for 20 years. She and her husband Gil, who previously owned a gallery on Washington Street and a small event space on Main Street, were among the early wave of artisans integral to setting the Biddeford renaissance in motion. She attended Thursday’s event as one of the dozen vendors, selling her jewelry and other artwork.  

Attendees enjoyed performances and a wide array of food at Biddeford’s first Juneteenth Celebration (Photo: Flo Leighton)

“This absolutely felt like a return to community,” said Coco Coral. “I truly didn’t know what to expect and was so very joyously surprised. It’s so good to see this event in particular with such good energy and so well attended. Seriously, hats off to the Heart of Biddeford and the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee. What a beautiful day by the river, dancing, snacking, and trading stories.” 

“Juneteenth is a time for reflection and
celebration. It is not just part of Black history,
it’s American history.

— Flo Leighton

Established as a federal holiday in 2021, Juneteenth recognizes the day in 1865 — two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed — that Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas to announce the end of the Civil War and that the last enslaved people were now free. It serves as a day to recall this history, as well as a celebration of Black community and continued fight for human rights and equity in our nation. 

“Juneteenth is a time for reflection and celebration,” said DEI Committee Chair Florence Leighton. “It is not just part of Black history, it’s American history. To see people of all races and ages gather together, including elected officials at the city and state level, and folks that traveled from different parts of the state and even out of state, in Biddeford is a testament to the city’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.”  

More than 100 people gathered for Biddeford’s Juneteenth celebration held at The Foundry, including Mayor Martin Grohman, City Councilors Liam LaFountain and Scott Whiting, Representative Marc Malon (D), and members of the city’s DEI Committee. Entertainment was provided by DJ B.Aull and catering from Soul Food Paradise and Biddo Banh. The event also highlighted local Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) vendors like Coco Corral, whose tables featured an array of goods from jewelry to original art, hair care products, and Jamaican jerk marinades. 

Photo by Delilah Poupore

“Against a backdrop of anti-DEI sentiment at a national level, the success of today’s Juneteenth event shows us what is possible when we work together, not against each other,” said Councilor Whiting, who also serves on the DEI Committee. “Biddeford has historically been one of the most diverse cities in Maine, including the Black community, and everyone in attendance today demonstrates that we will continue to be proud of that.” 

Emma Bouthillette is a Biddeford native and author of A Brief History of Biddeford. She is a marketer, yoga instructor, and corgi mom.

Never miss another story! Subscribe for free today!