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CITY HALL HOURS SHOULD ACCOMODATE THE PUBLIC, NOT EMPLOYEES
By TED COHEN, Special to the Biddeford Gazette
If the new Biddeford mayor really wants to serve the public, he needs to revamp City Hall’s hours, which are an insult to every city taxpayer.
“In an effort to minimize public confusion, the council will consider streamlining business hours at City Hall,” the Biddeford Gazette reported.
Minimize public confusion? There is no public confusion.
Blaming the public for being “confused” is a cynical stunt by city officials to accuse taxpayers of being too simple-minded to understand what hours a building is open, even if the hours vary from day to day.
So, let’s drill down on the insanity before us.
Reducing hours on Mondays and Tuesdays, besides opening a half hour later on those days, makes it harder for people who need to get to work early and would appreciate the 7 a.m. start to be able to get into City Hall.
Better yet why don’t they open at 6 a.m.?
On those same days, meanwhile, the elected cynics are proposing to reduce by a half hour the closing time by which a taxpayer must get in and conduct business.
On Wednesdays and Thursdays, it’ll open and close a half hour earlier. Again, just complicating the lives of taxpayers who can’t get there in the morning and need to come later in the day.
And City Hall is not open on Fridays? WTF is that all about?
Does the average working stiff in Biddeford get to work a four-day week?
Who do these clowns think they are?
The government should be serving the taxpayers, ergo, it should be open late at least one night a week until 9 and maybe also Saturday mornings from 8 until noon.
The [Biddeford] Gazette needs to ask the mayor some real questions such as proposed above.
If he’s really claiming to serve his constituency then he’ll expand the hours of City Hall in favor of those who need to use it and not in deference to those who “work* inside it.
If the mayor had any real balls, he would do it by executive action and just ignore whatever the council considers to be its role in setting City Hall hours.
And if the councilors want to sue him for exceeding his authority, then God bless him – let them do it.
They never will. They’re too busy blaming taxpayers for being too stupid to understand the definition of operating hours.
Let’s see a mayor who actually has some leadership ability rather than just standing by and accusing taxpayers of being too dumb to understand when City Hall is open.
Again, it’s not the alternating hours that’s the problem. That’s a canard – just a convenient distraction from the real issue that city officials don’t want to talk about: failing to serve the public so the people who staff the counters inside City Hall can get their beauty sleep.
The problem is that city workers couldn’t give a rat’s ass about serving the needs of the good hard-working taxpayers of Biddeford.
That means they have something in common with the City Council.
Let’s see if the new mayor can change that narrative.
It’ll never happen.
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TEACHERS’ ENDORSEMENT SENDS WRONG MESSAGE
By BEN NEVEUX, Special to the Biddeford Gazette
The Biddeford Teachers Association’s decision to endorse two candidates while leaving Norman Belanger off its list may have been meant to project strength — but instead, it sends a mixed and disappointing message.
When an organization meant to represent fairness and unity appears to play politics, the credibility of its endorsement suffers.
Endorsements are supposed to mean something. They should signal confidence in a candidate’s record, character and commitment to the people they serve. By dividing its support and opening the door to statewide PAC money, the union risks turning what should be a local, values-based decision into a political transaction.
That’s not what Biddeford voters expect from their educators’ representatives.
Leaving Norman Belanger off the endorsement list doesn’t just look like a strategic move — it looks like a snub. Mr. Belanger has a long record of public service and deep roots in this community. To pretend that doesn’t matter undermines the idea that endorsements are earned through experience and trust.
This decision doesn’t strengthen the union’s influence — it weakens it.
Endorsements should lift up leaders who’ve proven their dedication to Biddeford, not serve as bargaining chips in a broader political game. The union owes its members, and this city, better judgment.
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BHS DRAM CLUB PRESENTS ANTIGONE
By KAREN GARNETT, Contributing Writer
The Biddeford High School (BHS) Drama Club will bring Sophocles’ timeless tragedy Antigone by David Rush to the stage on Friday, November 7, and Saturday, November 8, at 7 p.m. in the BHS Little Theater. The production is directed by Ellie Joseph, head of Vocal and Theatre Arts at Biddeford High School and features a talented cast of student performers committed to bringing this gripping drama to life.
This modern adaptation of Sophocles’ classic tragedy reimagines the timeless conflict between individual conscience and state power. In Antigone, a young woman defies the king’s decree to honor her brother with a proper burial, sparking a powerful examination of duty, justice, and the consequences of standing up for one’s beliefs. David Rush’s version is both accessible and thought-provoking, bringing fresh relevance to this ancient story for today’s audiences.
“Our students have poured themselves into this play and are approaching it with both maturity and artistry,” said Joseph. “Our students are discovering that the questions Sophocles raised in ancient Greece—about power, morality, and courage—are the very same questions our world still grapples with today. Their performance is both a tribute to the past and a conversation with the present. It’s inspiring to see such gifted young performers breathe new life into a work that has resonated for centuries.”
The performances will be held in the Little Theatre at Biddeford High School. Admission is by donation at the door, making it easy for all community members to attend and support the arts. All contributions go directly toward funding future productions and strengthening the school’s performing arts program.
For an unforgettable evening filled with a thought-provoking performance, join the BHS Drama Club and experience Antigone.
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Saco Middle School Students to participate in ‘Kindness Day’
By KAREN GARNETT, Contributing Writer
On Friday, Saco Middle School (SMS) will participate in its annual “Raise Craze” fundraising event, focusing on acts of kindness across the community. Powered by good deeds, this creative fundraiser encourages students to make a positive impact while raising money for school initiatives.
With more than 700 people participating, their goal is 3,000 acts of kindness throughout the month of October and $10,000 for their school.
Students and staff will dedicate their school day to various community service projects to create meaningful engagement and community impact by spending the day working to make their community a better place. At the same time, students have a dashboard to track their acts of kindness, and pledgers can view their progress, allowing them to raise funds for their school.
The event is being organized by Emma Dausses, president of the Saco Middle School PTO.
The students will be working in several locations throughout the community, including the Bon Appetit food pantry, Maine Aging Partners, Saco Parks & Recreation, the Seeds of Hope Neighborhood Resource Center, Wardwell, Head Start, the Dyer Library, Leary Farm Saco Bay Trails, the Maine Veterans Home and several other locations throughout the community.
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Creepy Crawl returns downtown on Halloween
Families are invited to join the Heart of Biddeford for the annual Creepy Crawl on Friday, October 31, from 3 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Local businesses along Main Street and the surrounding streets will open their doors to trick-or-treaters of all ages, making this a safe and festive way for families to celebrate Halloween.
Participating businesses will be denoted with a black cat poster in their window.
This family-friendly event provides a fun way for the community to enjoy Halloween and support local businesses.
Costumes are highly encouraged for all ages, and the event is free to attend. Heart of Biddeford is excited to continue this tradition that brings families together in the spirit of fun and fosters community connection.
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BMS named as ‘Outstanding Middle School Chapter of the Year” by Best Buddies International for 2025.
By KAREN GARNETT, Biddeford School Department
Biddeford Middle School has been named as ‘Outstanding Middle School Chapter of the Year” by Best Buddies International for 2025. The award recognizes one chapter at each school level—elementary, middle, high school, and college—that best exemplifies the organization’s mission of inclusion and leadership in supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).
The announcement was shared during a school-wide assembly students involved were presented a plaque from Best Buddies Maine Director of Mission Advancement Shay Wilcox and Program Manager Jayme Morrison. Wilcox and Morrison praised BMS for exceeding program expectations through its strong leadership, inclusive spirit, creative programming, and living out the Best Buddies mission every day.
“Biddeford Middle School didn’t just talk about friendship—you made it happen,” said Wilcox. “You built a school where everyone feels like they belong, and you’re creating a lasting impact in your community. This award celebrates your commitment to kindness, inclusion, and genuine connection.”
“Biddeford Middle School didn’t
— Shay Wilcox
just talk about friendship—
you made it happen,”
In a congratulatory letter from Best Buddies International, the organization commended Biddeford Middle School for standing out among more than 3,500 chapters worldwide: “Each year, our Board of Directors carefully selects chapters that embody the spirit and mission of our organization—evaluating them on friendship quality, chapter activities, engagement, communication, and community involvement. Your chapter went above and beyond in each of these areas—living out our mission in ways that are both impactful and enduring.”
Now in its third year, the BMS Best Buddies chapter meets biweekly to foster meaningful one-to-one friendships between students with and without disabilities. Through crafts, games, dances, and social activities, members build interpersonal skills and cultivate relationships that extend beyond the school day. The group also hosted a school dance fundraiser to support program materials and activities.
“Our students have embraced what it truly means to be part of an inclusive community,” said BMS Principal Scott Descoteaux. “They’ve created a space where friendships thrive and differences are celebrated. I couldn’t be prouder of their compassion, leadership, and the example they’re setting for our entire district.”
Led by dedicated advisors Colleen Doiron, Paul Burnell, Lydia Martzial, and Brianna MacEachern, the chapter’s enthusiasm has grown so strong that students who’ve “aged out” have continued their involvement by establishing a Best Buddies chapter at Biddeford High School.
“We started small, but the excitement spread quickly and every chapter meeting is truly heartwarming,” said advisor Colleen Doiron. “It’s been incredible to see so many students—both with and without disabilities—forming friendships that last. It is truly inspiring to see our Buddies connect in the hallways, during recess, at lunch, and throughout various activities outside of our chapter meetings. Our Buddies are leading the way by spreading the importance of inclusion through their actions and friendships every day at BMS! This is what Best Buddies is all about.”
Founded in 1989 by Anthony Kennedy Shriver, Best Buddies International has expanded into a global movement promoting one-to-one friendships, leadership development, integrated employment, inclusive living, and family support for people with IDD. The recognition of Biddeford Middle School highlights the chapter’s exceptional dedication to that mission—proving that the power of friendship can transform not only a school but an entire community.
Karen Garnett is the communications director for the Biddeford School System. She can be contacted at kgarnett@biddefordschools.me
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I Heart Biddeford 5K Road Race Returns October 25
Submitted by Heart of Biddeford
Once again, the Heart of Biddeford is inviting the public to join the I Heart Biddeford 5K on Saturday, October 25, beginning at 8 a.m. at the Biddeford Primary School parking lot on Hill Street.
This family-friendly event serves as a key fundraiser for Heart of Biddeford’s downtown revitalization efforts, helping to create a vibrant, thriving community.
Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just looking for a fun way to support your local community, this event is perfect for all ages and fitness levels, according to organizers. Runners, walkers and teams are all welcome – and costumes are highly encouraged.
In addition to the main 5K event, there will be a free “Spooky Sprint” for children ages two-12. The dash promises to be a fun and exciting way for kids to join in the Halloween festivities. The Spooky Sprint will kick off at 9:15 a.m., and participants will also be encouraged to dress in costume.
All proceeds from the I Heart Biddeford 5K will go toward supporting Heart of Biddeford’s mission. Registration is $30. The race is pen to individuals and teams. Visit the I Heart Biddeford 5k sign-up page to register for the race
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‘FOR BIDDEFORD’ EVENT ATTRACTS 150 VOLUNTEERS: July 14, 2025
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. READ MORE
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SACO BAY TRAILS WILL HOST FOURTH ANNUAL ‘FAIRY HOUSE BUILDING DAY”
By WENDY WEILER, Contributing Writer
Do you need a little magic in your life? Would you like to visit a magnificent waterfall close by?
Please join Saco Bay Trails as we present our fourth annual Fairy House Building Day at Cascade Falls in Saco.
This is a free, magical event designed for all ages.
You can build a fairy house out of natural materials along a woodland stream and create a fairy crown and fairy wand; have your face painted and give hair tinsel a try.
You can also chat with our visiting mermaids in the Fairy Meadow, and they just may let you try on a mermaid tail.
Be creative and paint a rock to add to the resident pet Ruby the Rock Snake. Explore the trail near the base of the waterfall and discover fairy secrets behind the hidden doors. It’s going to be a magical day.
This event takes place on Saturday, July 26, from 10 a.m. to 1p.m. Rain date is Sunday, July 27.
There will be plenty of parking, including parking for disabled persons, so dust off your fairy wings and enjoy a hike in your backyard.
Saco Bay Trails was incorporated as a non-profit in 1998, a subcommittee of the city of Saco’s Conservation Commission.
The all-volunteer organization is dedicated to maintaining recreational trails in the Saco Bay area with a vision of creating a permanent network of free, easily accessible, well maintained, well-marked trails that people with a broad range of abilities can enjoy.
In addition to the Fairy House Building Day, Saco Bay Trails also sponsors spring bird walks with a local naturalist and a winter lecture series with local guest speakers.
Please consider supporting our cause and/or volunteering your time. A few hours during a work party can make a huge impact. For more information, please visit sacobaytrails.org
Wendy Weiler serves on the Saco Bay Trails board of directors.
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BHS SENIORS EARN BILITIRACY RECOGNITION
By KAREN GARNETT
Biddeford High School announced that 10 graduating seniors have earned Maine’s Seal of Biliteracy, an award that formally recognizes student achievement in language learning and highlights the value of multilingualism in today’s world.
This year marks the first time Biddeford High School offered students the opportunity to pursue the seal, and the response was strong—18 seniors participated, with 10 meeting the demanding criteria to receive the honor. To qualify, students had to demonstrate proficiency at the “Intermediate 2” level or higher in listening, speaking, reading, and writing in both English and an additional language through an approved rigorous assessment.
BHS Principal Martha Jacques praised the students’ achievements, stating, “These students are truly impressive. Earning the Seal of Biliteracy not only recognizes their hard work and language ability, but also sets them apart as future-ready graduates equipped for an increasingly global society.” READ MORE
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AUGUSTA UPDATE: What’s Happening in Augusta, and How It Impacts You
State Rep. Marc Malon gives an overview of what is happening in the Maine House of Representatives in his regular “Cleaning Out the Notebook” column. READ MORE
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Heart of Biddeford announces 2025 Summer “Music in The Park” series schedule
Heart of Biddeford is excited to announce the return of its Music in the Park series, taking place every Wednesday evening in July at Mechanics Park in downtown Biddeford. This free community event combines live music, a vibrant farmers’ market, and local food for an unforgettable summer experience by the river.
Each Wednesday, the Biddeford Public Market will run from 4 to 7:30 p.m., featuring fresh produce, handmade goods, and products from local farmers and artisans. The Brickyard Hollow food truck will serve up delicious fare from 5: to 7:30 p.m., while live performances will take place from 6:00 to 7:30 PM, bringing an exciting variety of musical genres to the downtown.
The 2025 Music in the Park lineup includes:
- July 2 – Shanna Underwood and the Wanderlust: Soulful travel-inspired tunes
- July 9 – The Twangtown Paramours: A dynamic blend of Americana, folk, and blues
- July 16 – Nikhil Dasgupta: Reflective, ambient folk with heartfelt lyricism
- July 23 – Bailey’s Mistake: Celtic-inspired folk with lively melodies
- July 30 – Falkyn: A fusion of roots rock, funk, jazz, and folk
“This event brings together the best of Biddeford — great music, fresh local food, and a welcoming community vibe in our beautiful riverfront park,” said Delilah Poupore, Executive Director of Heart of Biddeford.
Music in the Park is presented by Brickyard Hollow and Empeople Credit Union, whose generous support helps make this celebration of community, culture, and summer nights possible.
Mechanics Park is located at the intersection of Main and Water Streets in Biddeford. Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets or chairs and enjoy an evening of music and connection by the Saco River.
For more information, visit https://heartofbiddeford.org/event/music-in-the-park/
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Biddeford Middle School’s (BMS) fifth and sixth-grade Math Meet teams earned first place at all four meets this season, finishing undefeated in the Southern Maine Elementary Math League. Read More
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AUGUSTA UPDATE: State Sen. Henry Ingwersen honors local student
State Sen. Henry Ingwersen, D-Arundel, welcomed Xavier De La Torre, a senior at Biddeford High School, to present him with a legislative sentiment for being the recipient of the 2025 Southwestern Maine Activities Association’s Citizenship Award.
“Xavier represents the very best and brightest our state has to offer,” Ingwersen said. “His leadership, academic excellence and commitment to serving others is a testament to his integrity and character. His dedication as a student athlete and passion for the community are qualities that not only will serve him well in the years to come but will also continue to inspire those around him. He is a leader not just in name, but in action.”
De La Torre plans to continue his commitment to public service and leadership after graduation and will attend the United States Naval Academy Preparatory School in Newport, Rhode Island.
The SMAA Citizenship Award is awarded annually to two student athletes in the senior class of each member school for outstanding contributions to their school and community.
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OPINION: Biddeford city councilor shares inside perspective on the city’s budget [May 9, 2025]
In response to a resident who expressed concerns about this year’s municipal budget, City Councilor Liam LaFountain offers an inside perspective about the budget and its funding for a variety of social service agencies. Read More
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FEATURE BHS Odyssey of the Mind Team: State Champions. [April 9, 2025]
FEATURE: Biddeford Marching Arts earns New England Championship [April 7, 2025]
FEATURE: New Biddeford group focuses on coastal preservation [March 27, 2025]
OPINION: Political gamesmanship threatens vulnerable Mainers [March 3, 2025]
NEWS/OPINION: City councilor explains upcoming Biddeford budget [Feb. 25, 2025]
FEATURE: Local students shine at York County Spelling Bee [Feb. 24, 2025]
FEATURE: Igniting student passions at Biddeford High School [Feb. 19, 2025]
OPINION: Augusta Recap: Rep. Marc Malon
FEATURE: Biddeford school receives grant funding [Jan. 21, 2025]
OPINION: Biddeford’s Homeless; A Volunteer’s Perspective [Jan. 19, 2025]
FEATURE: NESN Broadcaster, McArthur Library join forces to fight cancer [Jan. 19, 2025]
THE BIDDEFORD GAZETTE 