Paddle the Presumpscot free

Presumpscot Regional Land Trust is hosting a special event, “Paddling the Presumpscot for Families,” on Saturday, Aug. 18, at Shaw Park.

An introductory lesson on paddling is set for 1 p.m. preceding the event at 2 p.m.

“This event is part of our new family-friendly programs initiative and is designed for kids aged 6-15 years old,” Rachelle Curran Apse, land trust executive director, said in a press release.

“Join the Presumpscot Regional Land Trust and hop in a canoe or kayak to spend a warm summer afternoon exploring the nature and history of the Presumpscot River from the water,” Apse said.

Rental boats will be available. Due to limited space, registrations are required by visiting www. prlt.org. For more information, call 839-4633.

Girl Scouts honor Homa

MacKenna Homa of Gorham is one of 19 Girl Scouts recently earning Silver awards for projects completed this year.

“Eating fresh fruits and veggies is important to our health and well-being, and gardens can be an effective way to ensure that we have access to this important produce,” a press release said. “But as MacKenna Homa, of Gorham, found out, many people do not have a garden because seeds are too expensive.”

After talking to farmers at her local farmer’s market, she also found out that many growers don’t always use all the seeds they have, so they go to waste.

To solve these problems, Homa created the “Seed Lending Library” at her local library where gardeners can donate their unused seeds, and anyone can take seeds to start their own gardens. “Her goal was to have the library stocked with 50-60 seed packages, and she has over 100,” the statement said. “She also wants to have the same number of packages going out as coming in, so she will be keeping a close eye on this upcoming growing season to ensure the seeds are being put to good use.”

The Girl Scout Silver Award is the highest award a Girl Scout in grades 6-8 can earn and gives girls the chance to show they are leaders who are organized, determined and dedicated to improving their communities.

U.S. taxpayer debt

The Bureau of the Fiscal Service reported on Aug. 9 that the U.S. public debt was $21,342,180,438,050.36.

Presumpscot Regional Land Trust will hold “Paddling the Presumpscot for Families” on Saturday, Aug. 18, at Shaw Park.