Meeting Monica

I love to read the works of Maine authors, and I am particularly drawn to Monica Wood’s stories. I recently read her latest book and would love to talk to her about it. Fortunately, I can do so this week because she will be speaking at the Raymond Village Library on Wednesday, Feb. 6, at 6 p.m.

Monica is the author of the NEIBA bestseller, “When We Were the Kennedys,” a gorgeous gripping memoir of life in Mexico, Maine, which was an Oprah’s 2012 Summer Reading pick, Reader’s Digest “Best of America” pick, and Radio Boston summer pick 2012 to name just a few. She is also the author of four works of fiction, most recently “Any Bitter Thing,” which spent 21 weeks on the American Booksellers Association extended bestseller list and was named a Books Sense Top Ten pick. Her other fiction includes “Ernie’s Ark,” “Secret Language” and “My Only Story,” a finalist for the Kate Chopin Award.

Monica will speak about her writing and autograph books for purchase. Light refreshments will be served. The public is invited but space is limited so you are asked to pre-register by visiting the Raymond Village Library or calling 655-4283. Hope to see you there.

Congrats Casey

Casey Jean Hutchinson, daughter of Patricia Hutchinson of Raymond and Gregory Hutchinson of Standish, has been named to the Dean’s List for the 2012 fall semester at the University of New England. Dean’s List students have attained a grade point average of 3.30 or better out of a possible 4.0 at the end of the semester. A 2012 graduate of Windham High School and the Mitchell Scholar for Windham, Casey is majoring in pre-pharmacy. She is also actively involved at the university in their TABS vocal group, UNE Players, and Pharmacy Club. Congratulations Casey, and keep up the good work.

Disney on Ice

The Cumberland County Commissioners have discounted tickets available for the upcoming Disney on Ice show that will be performed at the Civic Center at 7 p.m. on Feb. 7 and 9. You can get a $25 ticket for only $10. Some restrictions apply, but this is an excellent opportunity to see this show in a more affordable way. These discounted passes are available at the Town Office. For more information, stop by or call the office at 655- 4742.

I Love WCST

Windham Center Stage Theater will present its first “I Love WCST” dessert and auction fundraiser on Saturday, Feb. 9, from 6-8 p.m. at the Windham Town Hall. Tickets are only $10 for students and $12 for adults. This event will feature decadent desserts, a variety of silent-auction items, and live entertainment. Guests will have the opportunity to sample sweet treats while bidding on spa packages, items for the home, and unique experiences. WCST provides outstanding opportunities for people in the surrounding communities to become involved in all aspects of theater productions and is known for their wonderful spring children’s shows as well as fun summer productions. Come support local theater and pick up a great gift for your valentine. For more information, visit windhamtheater.org.

Hooked on Fishing

The 2013 Kittery Trading Post “Hooked on Fishing” kids’ ice fishing derby will be held on Monday, Feb. 18, from 8 a.m. until noon at the Range Pond State Park located on Empire Road in Poland.

“Hooked on Fishing,” brought to you by Kittery Trading Post and Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, is an introduction to ice fishing, especially organized for children not familiar with and desiring to experience the basics of ice fishing.

The first 500 pre-registered entries for children 12 years and under arriving before 10 a.m. will receive an ice fishing rig. Children 12 and under are free; however, there is a state-mandated gate fee of $1.50 per person over age 12, which will be collected at the Range Pond State Park entrance. Those over age 65 are free to enter the park as well. Registration forms can be downloaded at www.icefishingderby.com by clicking on the “Kid’s Derby” tab. Contact Tammy at 756-5959 for more information.

Raymond Beach Needs You

The ongoing saga of keeping Raymond Beach open continues. In the past few years, we have seen closings due to trash, contamination and poor water tests. Floating restaurants and hot-dog stands have made their presence in an attempt to monitor the beach and with summer approaching and the problem not yet solved, the town is inviting proposals from private parties interested in entering into an agreement to operate and manage the beach.

A complete history is available on the town website but in a nutshell, the town, in partnership with the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, developed and improved the former Jones Beach located on Route 302 through the issuance of a state/town license and lease agreement which provides a boat launch, parking and swimming area. The town will continue to maintain all services at the boat launch but is looking for private management of the 410-foot long sandy beach.

Anyone interested in this unique opportunity must submit a proposal in writing. Details about the proposal requirements can be obtained by visiting the town office or downloading the Request for Proposals on the town website. All proposals must be submitted on or before Feb. 22. Questions regarding the bid process should be directed to Danielle Loring at 655-4742 ext. 133, or danielle.loring@raymondmaine.org.