Welcome autumn!

It is hard to believe summer is over and although I miss its long, playful, carefree days, I am very happy autumn is here. It is my favorite time of year, and I wonder if there is any better time and place than September in Raymond.

Although summer here is fabulous, proven by the many visitors we have, the next two months are also delightful. With the decreasing water temperatures, swimming in the lakes may no longer be inviting, but they are certainly beautiful to be near, look at and paddle over. The lakes are deserted, docks and boats removed, streets are quieter, trees are starting to show their color and the sunny days and cool nights make for perfect surroundings for all activities.

I recently joined a few friends on a kayaking adventure down the Tenney River and was delighted with the experience. The Tenney is a small, shallow river that snakes through a beautiful piece of land and connects Panther Pond and Crescent Lake. The river was empty and quiet, the water still and peaceful.

We began our paddle at the town’s Crescent Beach and maneuvered through the culvert under Route 85. Within minutes, it felt like we were in another world, totally isolated and peaceful. The beginnings of foliage were reflected on the water as we continued on, and we were treated to sightings of a huge family of turtles, many types of birds and ducks and a very well-hidden heron. A few remaining dragonflies fluttered upon the water while looking for nourishment. Totally relaxed with the sun on my face and just a few puffy white clouds overhead, I could have stayed there forever.

Whether you make the voyage with a group of friends, laughing, talking and enjoying one another’s company or if you go alone and experience its beauty, tranquility and solitude, paddling down the Tenney River in autumn is a must and I highly recommend it.

School board hosts forum on school choice

An open workshop meeting was held last week during which the school board discussed consolidation, school choice and their effects on one another.

Many people attended the meeting to gather information as the board outlined what has transpired thus far and what is ahead. The board has been required to submit a proposal to the state Department of Education requesting with whom the school district would like to join. A variety of options are being considered with much time being spent on the advantages and disadvantages of each.

After the first hour of board discussion, the meeting was opened for questions and comments from the audience. As expected, opinions varied and those speaking were sincere with their requests. Although there were a few who expressed the desire to eliminate school choice in order to improve our attractiveness to other schools as well as keep our students together as a unit, the majority pleaded with the board to maintain school choice. There were very strong feelings expressed about the importance of choice.

The purpose of the meeting was to exchange information and viewpoints and no decisions were made. Board members, who have been working diligently on the issue of consolidation, want to hear your views and invite you to contact them with any concerns, questions or thoughts. Although there was a very wide range of differing opinions, one thing was very clear: Everyone feels our students’ well being is the top priority. Although the financial impact changes with the different options, putting our children’s needs above anything else was the main goal for the board and all parents in attendance. Further meetings will be held as Raymond gets closer to finalizing a proposal.

Local cyclists, hikers support Loon Echo Land Trust

Several outdoor enthusiasts from Raymond were blessed with dry, warm September weather as they participated in the seventh annual Loon Echo Hike ‘n Bike Trek on Saturday.

Raymond was represented by some veteran riders as well as those who would accomplish the 100-mile route for the first time. Our impressive eighth-grader, Corrie van Haasteren, once again completed the trek on his unicycle.

The trek left Shawnee Peak in Bridgton, and riders embarked on 25-, 50- or 100-mile scenic rides while enjoying the friendship of fellow riders. One Raymond family chose not to ride this year but instead participated in the newly added hike portion of the day. Hikers climbed Pleasant Mountain, a six-mile hike along the Southwest Ridge. Proceeds from the event benefit the Loon Echo Land Trust who is working diligently to protect our treasured Lakes Region.

Cub Scout Pack 800 wants you!

Raymond Pack 800 is looking for all boys interested in joining the Scouting program. Since 1930, the Boy Scouts of America has helped younger boys through Cub Scouting. This is a year-round family program designed for boys who are in the first through fifth grade (or 7 to 10 years of age). Parents, leaders, and organizations work together to achieve the purposes of Cub Scouting.

The 10 purposes of Cub Scouting are:

1. Character development

2. Spiritual growth

3. Good citizenship

4. Sportsmanship and fitness

5. Family understanding

6. Respectful relationships

7. Personal Achievement

8. Friendly service

9. Fun and adventure

10. Preparation for Boy Scouts