Happy fall, everybody. Thursday’s autumnal equinox was coupled with a full moon, which I see as an auspicious way to usher in Maine’s most beautiful season (and bid farewell to our warmest summer on record).

Whether you are checking out the local harvest at the Depot Street Farmer’s Market every Saturday, getting lost in the corn maze at Sherman Farm, or just dreaming of the apple crisp and fried dough at the Fryeburg Fair, there’s plenty of fun to be had in Bridgton and beyond. Let’s get to it.

Senior scholars

Continuing education is a great way to pick up new skills and keep your intellect sharp. The Bridgton campus of Senior College is starting its fall session, and there are still a few spots in some classes.

Although “Tudors and the Reformation” and “Great Poetry” are full, you can sign up for both Jim Knox’s “How to use your Digital Camera” and geologist Jim Dover’s “Geology of National Parks” this week. The classes meet from 9:30-11:30 a.m. on Tuesdays and Fridays respectively, and run for six weeks. Cost is $15 per course, and the program is open to anyone 50 and over. For information, check out the website at seniorcollegeatbridgton.org.

Pet parser

I have often wondered what Farnsworth is trying to tell me when he has a meowing fit. Does he love my outfit? Hate my hairdo? Want a tin of sardines?

Animal communicator and Reiki master Sara Moore would say that he has definite thoughts and preferences he is trying to convey. On Saturday, Sept 25, from 9-11:30 a.m. she will be at the Bridgton Vet Hospital, ready to help you communicate more effectively with your pet.

You can schedule a session with her by calling 603-986-9421 or e-mailing sbeagen@gmail.com. She also has a detailed website with a calendar of upcoming events at www.saramoorereiki.com.

Park progress

While you are at the Farmer’s Market picking the perfect pumpkin next Saturday, check out the gorgeous new entryway to Pondicherry Park.

Local carpenters and craftsmen have worked for months building the Bob Dunning Memorial Bridge at the Magic Lantern entrance to the park, and it is stunning. The traditional post-and-beam design and soaring canopy mirror the natural surroundings and an elegant footbridge over Stevens Brook and into the 59-acre sanctuary.

The vision of Pondicherry Park has been in the works for years; to see it come to fruition through the dedication of volunteers, Lakes Environmental Association and Loon Echo Land Trust is a fine example of Bridgton’s community pride. All of the land is protected in perpetuity, so take a walk in the woods and thank those who made it happen.

Teen power

Teenagers might think they know it all, but unfortunately many of them are insecure and susceptible to peer pressure. Laying the groundwork for self-confidence and self-control during the teen years can make all the difference in what kind of adult they become.

The Bridgton Community Center is hosting the Abraham Low Self-Help System’s “Power to Change” program, which is a professionally developed course designed to instill practical skills to help teenagers manage their responses to both inner and outer stressors.

Instructors will teach them practical skills to improve their attitude about school and with family and friendships.

Teens from 12 to 18 are invited. The program begins the last week of September and meets every Monday and Friday from 3 – 4:30 p.m. for six weeks. For information or to sign up, call Diane Menario at 892-9529. More information is at www.lowselfhelpsystems.org. Best of all the classes are free, which is a lot cheaper than military school.

Upta camp

Local hero Bob Marley brings his hilarious Maine humor to Lake Region High School on Thursday, Oct. 7, for an 18-over show at 7 p.m. The comedian is known for his generosity and volunteer work, and again he is donating his time for a great cause.

The Bridgton Recreation Advancement Group is a non-profit that has worked for years to create a local community sports campus. BRAG’s board of directors has received a $20,000 check from Larry and Lyn Carter of Casco for the Laurie Carter Bergen Memorial Field to be built at the BRAG complex. The Carter family pledged $50,000.00 to name the softball field in Laurie’s honor and they are well on their way toward that goal. The Carters have been very busy raising money for BRAG by hosting dinners, holding a Chinese auction and community outreach.

The $20 tickets may be purchased at MacDonald Motors in Bridgton, the Naples branch of Norway Savings Bank and TD Bank in Bridgton, and you can call 627-7380 for more information. They will sell out, so get yours early.

Best Wishes …

Congratulations to Bob and Cindy Murphy, who were married in a beautiful ceremony last Saturday at the Black Horse Tavern. The couple was introduced at the restaurant, and all who witnessed it knew they were a perfect match. Cheers to many happy years Bob and Cindy, you deserve it.

… And Happy Trails

Lifelong Bridgtonian Coco Davis is southbound this week, as she joins fellow local Chris McCloud at Ft. Campbell. Whether she taught you how to swim at Bridgton Rec or was your favorite sub at LRHS, it’s clear that Coco will make a dedicated educator as she pursues her master’s. To know her is to love her, and all of us who do wish her the best. Watch out, Nashville!