Good Neighbors

As many of you know, there were an alarming number of house fires in Bridgton this winter. One of the most devastating was that of Steve and Kathy Lyons’ home on Pond Road, which was a total loss. Fortunately the family got out safely, as did their beloved dog, but they lost absolutely everything they owned except the clothes on their backs.

Kathy Lyons is one of six children of Earl and Priscilla Cash; she grew up here and has many friends and family who are helping do what they can. Unfortunately she has also been fighting (and beating) cancer, but this fire is another devastating setback for a family who really deserves some good news.

The Black Horse Tavern is hosting a benefit to help the family, and it is going to be awesome. Join the party at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb 26, for a night of food, prizes and karaoke. There will be a Silent Auction, a 50/50 raffle and a dinner buffet. Karaoke Tripp spins tunes starting at 7, and if you’ve ever heard any of us sing you know that it is going to be hilarious. All proceeds from the auction and dinner buffet go to the Lyons family, and even if you can’t make it to the party you can drop a donation off at the restaurant any time. This will be a great night to celebrate dear friends, help out a family in need, and shake off the cabin fever. It is a tragic situation, but Bridgton people stick together and with everyone’s help the Lyons will rebuild and start over.

If you own a business and want to donate to the Auction please call Nick at 647-5300. Let’s all pitch in and make this a special night for an awesome family.

Food For All

Our local Community Center is such a wonderful asset, and one of the best programs they offer is the Community Kettle dinner every Thursday night. Local non-profits, businesses and Civic organizations cook homemade food from salad to dessert for up to 100 people, for FREE. You could be the neediest person in town or king of the castle and it doesn’t matter…no questions asked; just come by for food and fellowship.

Four Square Olympics

That’s right, in case you hadn’t heard, Four Square is back and all the cool kids are playing it. The 10th annual World Championship Four Square Competition is being held right here in Bridgton on Saturday, February 22rd from 5 to 9 pm at Bridgton Academy’s gym.

Over 100 competitors from across the Northeast and Canada, and as far away as Florida, will descend upon our little town for the four-square smackdown. As LEA Director and Four Square Master Peter Lowell told me, “Like Dodgeball, Four Square seems simple until you try it. It is a game of speed and skill, and we always have a great time playing. These teams take it seriously, and many are serious athletes.” The championships are open to anyone who wants to compete or watch. Whether you are serious about winning the trophy or just want to come out and have fun for a good cause this is the event for you. LEA collects a $10 registration fee from participants to support lake protection. For more information or to register contact Peter Lowell at 647-8580 or email lakes@leamaine.org.