Hello, readers

My name is Nikkol Hawkes, and I’m your new Inside Casco community columnist for the Lakes Region Weekly. My job is to reflect the community by sharing news and events in our town. Feel free to contact me with any community notes in general or feedback from things I write about. I look forward to hearing from you and sharing about all the news that makes Casco a great place to live. My contact information is listed above, so please contact me.

Haunted Happenings

Halloween is coming and there’s a party at Point Sebago. On Oct. 31 from 5-6:30 p.m., preschoolers through sixth grade are invited to come for a ghoulish good time. The Halloween spooktacular features a costume parade at 6 p.m., a fortune teller, cookie decorating, prizes and more. Enjoy goodies, games and lots of fun. For more information call Beth Latsey at 627-4187 or Harvey Price at 693-6364. Volunteers are needed. Directions: From Route 302 take Point Sebago Road; follow to main entrance of resort. Parking is in second lot on the right past tennis courts.

Casco Cares about Breast Cancer

October is breast cancer awareness month. To support the fight against breast cancer, the Casco Town Office Employee Crusaders are accepting donations of at least $5 through the end of the month. On Wednesday, Oct. 17, the Casco Crusaders wore pink in recognition of the cause. A program called Passionately Pink for the Cure works together with communities who want to help raise money for the ultimate goal of finding a cure for breast cancer. The Casco Crusaders was formed by Melissa Poree and members set a goal of raising $1,000. As of Oct. 17, the group has raised $565.

The donations are going to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, the world’s largest breast cancer network. This program was formed by Nancy G. Brinker as a tribute and promise 25 years ago after the tragic loss of her sister, Suzy, to breast cancer. To learn more, visit www.komen.org. The Casco Town Office has a display set up with information for the public. For more information, call 627-4515. Donations are being accepted through Oct. 31.

Breast cancer is a devastating disease that touches the lives of many in our community, both men and women. We can make a difference right now by supporting our local Crusaders who are Passionately Pink for the cure. Remember to check yourself for lumps and bumps regularly. Remind loved ones to do the same. Early detection is vital. Mammograms and self-exams save lives.

Debbie Tarr of Raymond, is a breast cancer survivor. For nine years now her cancer has been in remission. On her 10th year anniversary, Debbie’s doctor can officially declare her cancer-free. The road to this point has not been easy. While going through the treatments, Debbie experienced hair loss, nausea, fatigue and a double mastectomy. After the treatments, she had plastic surgery and implants for reconstruction. Debbie says, “Now, I appreciate everything, from family to all the little things, like autumn leaves.”

Debbie’s advice to anyone who has breast cancer is:

1. Stay active, keep working and exercise. If you don’t, you may become overwhelmed with self-pity. Staying busy helps take your mind off everything. The support from your workplace does make a difference.

2. Be your own advocate. Ask questions and learn as much about breast cancer as you can. Don’t wait for the doctor to tell you what to do.

3. Don’t go it alone. Bring someone with you to your appointments that will be able to listen to everything the doctor says. You may not be able to take it all in alone.

4. Go to a support group. Debbie heads a group in Raymond. You can contact her at 655-7840.

In the fight for a cure against breast cancer, start small, think big. For $5 you could get a Big Mac at McDonalds and contribute to your thunder thighs or you could stop in the Casco Town Office and donate $5 toward the biggest crusade of many people’s lives. It’s a no-brainer. Think Pink.