Rabies case confirmed near Weymouth Road

The Maine Center for Disease Control last week confirmed a positive rabies test against a raccoon found deceased near Weymouth Road in Gray on Feb. 22.  Residents are reminded to vaccinate their pets, license dogs and keep an eye on pets when they’re let outdoors.

Rabies is a virus that can infect any mammal, though most often found in wild animals like bats, raccoons, skunks and foxes. It’s typically transmitted through bites from the infected animal. The virus targets the central nervous system and is near-100% fatal. If an animal is acting strange, such as a nocturnal animal appearing in populated areas during the day, stay away and call Animal Control Officer Jonathan Powers at Cumberland County Dispatch, 893-2810, option 2. Anyone bitten or scratched by a wild animal should seek immediate medical attention – rabies can be treated but only if it’s caught early.

Marilyn Keating-Porcaro can be contacted at mkp657@aol.com.

Public office positions open

Positions are open for the following offices: town councilor, two three-year terms to expire June 2026; SAD 15 board of directors, two three-year terms to expire June 2026 and one term that expires in June 2025; and Water District trustee, one five-year term to expire June 2028.

Those interested can find nomination papers at the town office during regular business hours. Nominations must be received by noon April 14. For more information, call the town office at 657-3339.

 Shamrock Shake family night

The Gray-New Gloucester Recreation Department will host a family night of activities at the Newbegin Community Center at 24 Main St. on Saturday, March 18. Open to families and children grades 5 and under, it will be a night of music, games, crafts and other activities. Families are encouraged to dress in green for the St. Patrick’s Day occasion. For more information, visit GNGrec.com.

Spring Sports Saturdays

Opportunities to get out of the house and get moving will be offered on the next three Saturdays at the Gray-New Gloucester Newbegin Gym. This Saturday, March 18, is kickball, March 25 is Nerf games, and April 1 will be floor hockey. Kids in grades K-2 can come play from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m., and grades 3-5 play 10:45 a.m. to noon.

Participants should bring indoor shoes and a water bottle. To stay updated, visit GNGrec.com or  facebook.com/grayparksrecreation.

Public supper

The First Congregational Church of Gray at 5 Brown St. will host a Saturday night church supper at 5 p.m. March 25. The meal will feature a variety of casseroles, baked pea beans, red hot dogs, breads, beverages and desserts. Meals are $10 each, paid at the door. Call 657-4279 for more information.