Family rescues distressed moose in lake

By Ed Pierce

Monday evening June 30 was supposed to be nothing more than a relaxing sunset cruise around Sebago Lake, but it turned out to be a life-saving trip for a family visiting the Lakes Region from Massachusetts.

The Chasse Family, visiting from
Massachusetts for the holiday, were boating
on Sebago Lake on Monday night when
they encountered a large moose in distress
struggling to swim and trying to keep its head
above water. Along with a passing couple in
a motorboat, they teamed up and were able to
gently guide the moose back to the shoreline
and to safety. SUBMITTED PHOTO    

For years, the Chasse Family of Salem, Mass. has been spending the 4th of July holiday at Point Sebago Resort in Casco and enjoyed a leisurely day and dinner before opting to watch the sunset out on the lake.

With six family members aboard their pontoon boat, they set out from shore but got about halfway out on Sebago Lake before spotting something unusual.

“My younger sister saw what she thought at first was a buoy in middle of the lake, but when we got closer, we noticed that it was a huge moose fighting to keep its head above the water,” said Samantha Chasse, 19. “The moose’s ears were back, and it was having a difficult time swimming in the lake. Our family just didn’t know what to do, so we started calling the police and the warden service to see if they could help us.”

She said none of the agencies that the family called were able to respond and the moose continued to struggle in the water.

Thinking that the moose could drown being so far offshore, they chose to maneuver their boat directly behind the moose at a distance to see if they could gently guide the large creature back toward land.

“We took it upon ourselves to try and help an animal that was trying to survive. We had been doing that for a while when we noticed a couple in a passing motorboat and we flagged them down,” Chasse said. “They agreed to help us, and they got on one side of the moose, and we got on the other side and started slowly steering it back to the shoreline.”

According to Chasse, the coordinated efforts of both boats and through sheer determination, they were able to slowly guide the exhausted animal back to land and safety after about 30 minutes.

Moose are the largest members of the deer family, with adult males standing 6 feet tall at the shoulder and weighing between 1,200 and 1,600 pounds. Female moose typically weigh between 800 and 1,300 pounds.

As they got closer to what is known locally as “Cub Cove” between Casco and Raymond, the moose appeared to realize it was near the shoreline and appeared to become stronger, climbing out onto the beach, before it exhibited an unusual gesture.

“Once it reached the shore, it stopped and turned its head toward us as if to say thanks,” Chasse said. “Then it turned around and ran into the woods. We could see it was a huge animal as it ran off and we were all cheering that it was safe.”

For Chasse, it was the first moose she has ever seen in Maine.

“We’ve been coming to Maine for years and we have all grown up around Sebago Lake. We have seen plenty of deer and bears, but have never seen a moose,” she said. “It truly was an awesome experience.”

She said saving the moose is something all members of her family can be grateful for.

“I’m an animal lover and have been for my entire life,” she said. “To be involved in something like this in helping an animal in trouble is just incredible and I’m grateful to have been a part of it.”

Chasse says that their swift actions not only saved the moose’s life but also remind them of the power of unity being a good citizen.

“This remarkable moment is a testament to what can happen when people set aside differences and act out of kindness,” she said. “We hope this story inspires others to look out for both wildlife and one another.” <

Raymond appoints new lead Code Enforcement Officer

By Dina Mendros

The Raymond Code Enforcement Office has a new head of the department, but he isn’t exactly a new face. Jason Williamson was hired last July as the assistant head of the town’s Code Enforcement Office, and after some on-the-job training by Chris Hanson, he was promoted to his new position by the Raymond Select Board on June 9.

Jay Williamson has been promoted from
Assistant Code Enforcement officer to
be the head Code Enforcement Officer
for the Town of Raymond by the
Raymond Select Board. He has worked
for the town since July 2024.
COURTESY PHOTO   

Williamson, 46, who is married with two young children built a home in Raymond and he and his family moved there about four years ago. He graduated from the University of New Hampshire and has a background in carpentry and building.

He says he got to a point where he didn’t think carpentry and building was a kind of work that he could do for many more years, so he decided to go into code enforcement.

“I thought maybe this would be a good transition for me,” he said.

Williamson says he enjoys his code enforcement job, which he finds both challenging and rewarding.

“The biggest challenges, I would say are when you’re dealing with some issues that crop up with neighbors,” he said. “It seems like you’re taking sides … but you’re really trying to be fair and not infringe on anybody’s rights.” Getting people to see the other side’s point of view “can be extremely difficult,” he said.

Some of the most rewarding parts of his job, Williamson says, include “I’ve gotten to meet a lot of really great people.” He said, “it’s nice when you can help someone figure out and navigate the ordinances and the codes to build a house.”

Also rewarding, Williamson said, is helping people figure out how to work with some of their land so they can sell it to a relative for them to build a house.

“It’s definitely rewarding if you can get somewhere for someone to live,” he said. “Housing is difficult to find these days and when someone can put on an addition to bring in an aging parent or for their child who can’t afford a place. I would say that’s probably the most rewarding.”

An important part of the job, Williamson says, has to do with enforcing shoreline zoning and protecting the waterways, as much of the building that takes place in Raymond is along or near lakes.

For example, in 2021 the town of Raymond was alerted to significant changes along Sebago Lake that violated shoreline zoning. The property owner reached a settlement in the past year which included payment to the town of $640,000 for legal fees and damages as well as replanting trees and shrubs and more, according to a report aired on WGME television.

Although this took place before Williamson was hired, he says that he’s responsible for making sure the remediation takes place and is on track.

“Protecting the water quality, making sure and informing homeowners when they are doing projects in and around the lakes and showing them how to do it in a manner that’s going to be respectful to the lake,” is one of his biggest responsibilities. Williamson said, “Everybody wants to do what they want with their property, but most people understand that there’s a responsibility of being down by the water. When you get people who understand is the most rewarding, I would say.”

According to Williamson, there’s no such thing as a typical day in code enforcement because “each situation can be so different.”

“Some days you might have two, three, four people come in just to make a complaint,” he said. “Other days you’ll have a lakefront property come up for sale and you’ll be fielding calls from real estate agents pretty much one right after the other because the competition is so fierce.”

Other reasons a typical day is hard to define, Williamson said, can be because the types of duties the department takes on not only includes code enforcement but also building inspections and land use. There are a lot of different responsibilities to the job and with only four people in the department, with only two of whom are code enforcers, staff are filling a lot of different shoes.

During his tenure with the town of Raymond’s Code Enforcement Office, Williamson says, “I’ve learned how difficult and multifaceted the job is. I hope I can perform in the job as well as I can.” <

Hail to the Champs: WHS Girls' Lacrosse, Softball teams earn state titles

By Matt Pascarella

Windham High’s varsity girls’ lacrosse and softball both made program history on Saturday, June 21. Second-ranked girls’ lacrosse won the program’s first-ever Class A State Championship after it defeated top-ranked Kennebunk 12-9 at Fitzpatrick Stadium in Portland. Second-ranked WHS softball won its second-ever Class A State Championship in three years when it shut out seventh-ranked Edward Little 7-0 at Saint Joseph’s College.

Two Windham High School teams captured Class A
State Championships on Saturday, June 21. Top, the 
WHS Softball team gathers after winning its second
state title in three years by beating Edward Little at
Saint Joseph's College. Bottom, the WHS Girls'
Lacrosse team celebrates after defeating Kennebunk 
to win the Class A Girls' Lacrosse title, the first-ever
girls' lacrosse state championship for Windham High.
PHOTOS BY MATT PASCARELLA   

Both Windham teams had amazing seasons with lacrosse winning 17 games consecutively with only one loss during the entire season and softball finished their season 18-2.

“I couldn’t have asked for anything more,” said Windham senior Grace Joly. “I’m so in shock I don’t even have words. This team means everything to me. I’m so excited; what a great way to go out with a bang, it’s so exciting. We definitely just had to ... take it game by game. We had a really big winning streak and coming into this game knowing that we’re a great team, we can hang with them, we just have to believe. That was our biggest thing toward the end of the year. Believe in each other, believe in the coaches, believe in our fans.”

In the very first game of the season, Windham girls’ lacrosse lost to Kennebunk. From that game until the State Championship Game, they beat every team they went up against.

WHS girls’ lacrosse members include seniors Sophie Allen, Grace Joly, Lauren Jordan; juniors Abby Trainor, Neve Ledbetter, Demetria Nicholas, Elizabeth Baker, Mady Donnelly, Brianna Duarte, Alyssa Cooper, Olivia McPherson; sophomores Morgan McLain, Grayson Cornish, Gracie McPherson, Charlie Scanlon, Libby Hartwell, Avery Adams, manager Allegresse Kawaya; freshmen Brooklyn Roy, Anna Bowie, Morgan Clark, Maria Rose, Madison Buzulchuck and Lauren Valle.

“I think we just kept getting better – 17 in a row is pretty wild,” said Windham varsity girls’ lacrosse coach Matt Perkins. “The way the girls treat each other is second to none. I’ve been fortunate to be around some really good teams, and this is probably the finest team I’ve seen that puts each other first. Even though we have some dynamic players, no one is selfish; they are all about what’s best for the team. I think the mindset was we’re better than them. They beat us in the first game, (but now) we’re better.”

Windham junior Abby Trainor said it feels amazing to win a state title with this team. In her opinion, it’s the most tightknit team they’ve had in the history of Windham lacrosse, when you see they’re breaking scoring records and multiple teammates are scoring multiple goals, Windham is unstoppable. Trainor said in that first game with Kennebunk, they took a step back and assessed what went wrong. They came into the State Championship Game prepared; they knew what Kennebunk would do from watching film and when they did it, Windham was ready.

“It’s pretty crazy (to have won another state championship),” said Windham senior Stella Jarvais. “You never really know, how you’re going to end up throughout the season until playoffs. This team is so special because we just do it for each other, we’re not selfish in any way. That’s what makes it so fun to play on this team.”

Last year, Windham softball lost to Cheverus in the Regional Championship after being undefeated in the regular season. They did not want to feel what that felt like again this year. Preparations to overcome Cheverus in the playoffs began 52 weeks prior to when Windham beat Cheverus this year in the Regional Championship, 1-0.

“I think for us, and this is what I said to the girls before the game, ‘we were the underdogs all year long,’” said Gardiner. “No one thought we were going to get Cheverus, we played all year long as the underdogs. And that’s how Tuesday really went, we played as the underdog with that battle, with that fight and just because the news headlines may be say something different, we still need to go out there and act like we’re the underdog. These girls still went out realizing the job wasn’t done after Tuesday.”

WHS softball team members include seniors Stella Jarvais, Kyla Harvie, Lydia Marden, Chloe Edwards, Kennedy Kimball; juniors Oakley McLeod, Jezabelle Pinto, Nola Bryant, Lacie Higgins, Addison Caiazzo, Chloe Delewski; sophomores Kaylee Napolitano, Evelyn Anderson, Kiley Card, Sarah Smyth, Abhilasha Jain and freshmen Evelyn Robinson and Yani Kostopoulos.

“I’m so glad we were able to do this, after playing Cheverus last year,” said Caiazzo. “We knew that this is where we wanted to end; we wanted it to end (at the State Championship). We all grew up together, playing Little League. So being a close-knit team and pretty much a family, it was just amazing.” <

MDOT project draws mixed reactions at open house

By Ed Pierce

During an open house meeting at Windham Town Hall on June 18, Windham residents and business owners were able to review plans for a $31.25 million road project that aims to alleviate traffic congestion along the Route 302 corridor in town.

Windham residents and business owners got to review 
Maine Department of Transportation's plans for connector
roads and a center median for Route 302 in Windham during
an open house presentation at Windham Town Hall on 
Wednesday, June 18. COURTESY PHOTO    

Maine Department of Transportation Senior Project Manager Ernie Martin briefed those attending the meeting about the timeline and plan specifics for the project, which involves reconstructing about 1.6 miles of Route 302 from River Road to Whites Bridge Road, creating three connector roads to Route 302, limiting left turns through creation of a center median on Route 302, the installation of smart traffic signals in the area, and making corridor and intersection improvements.

Martin said this open house was a courtesy to update Windham residents as to where the projects currently stand. He said the intent is to reduce congestion and improve safety for motorists, citing a high rate of accidents on Route 302. In addition, the project will make improvements to Routes 35 and 115 and will construct about 11,700 feet of new multi-use pathway.

“Some other key project features include repaving existing roads and adding new roads, adding and upgrading sidewalks on Route 302, installing new curbs in some areas and roadway alignments to be modified,” Martin said.

According to a MDOT factsheet distributed during the open house meeting, most of the $31.25 million project’s cost will be paid for through a U.S. Department of Transportation Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity or RAISE grant. Along with a $25 million federal grant, the state of Maine and the town of Windham will each pay half of the remaining $6.25 million.

MDOT first partnered with Windham in 2019 to study Route 302 improvement and held a preliminary public hearing about the proposed project in June 2024. A final preliminary design report is scheduled to be completed in August and then a final public hearing will be held about it in February 2026 with plans and a cost estimate for the project to be completed by June 2027.

Construction is set to begin in October 2027, and the estimated completion date is June 2030, Martin said.

“Route 302 was never designed to serve as both a local street dotted with businesses and a through-route for travelers heading to Sebago Lake and other western destinations,” Martin said. “Routes 35 and 115 are facing similar challenges. Traffic has increased in recent years while transportation efficiency and safety have suffered. The construction of the numerous safety elements on this project is expected to reduce vehicle crashes by 21 percent. The numerous required and desired safety improvements to be implemented throughout the project area will aid in reducing crashes and injuries in a commercial area that has grown rapidly around outdated safety features, or no safety features at all.”

Route 302 improvements called for in the plans consist of building 1.7 miles of new sidewalks where sidewalks are not present today; rebuilding existing sidewalks that are not American Disability Act (ADA) compliant; installing raised median islands from Boody’s Corner at the Route 35 and Route 115 intersection northerly to the Franklin Drive Intersection; installing raised median islands from Boody’s Corner southerly about 625 feet as well as modifying traffic signals and vehicular movements.

About .33 miles of Route 35 from the intersection of Manchester Drive to the Intersection of Route 302 at Boody’s Corner will be rehabilitated and the pavement surface will be milled off and repaved. For Route 115 about .46 miles from the new intersection at the East Side Connector Road to the intersection of Route 302 at Boody’s Corner will be rehabilitated and the pavement surface will be milled off and repaved.

An east connector road will be built at the Eastern terminal of Franklin Drive and extending southerly about .67 miles to Route 115. This includes intersection connections with Veterans Memorial Drive and Sandbar Road. The connector road intersection of Route 115 will be signalized with appropriate turning lanes. On Franklin Drive about .30 miles will be rehabilitated, and the pavement surface will be milled off and repaved.

A west connector road of 1.01 miles will be built at the northerly terminal of Manchester Drive and extending northerly some .55 miles to Whites Bridge Road. This work includes creating intersection connections with Landing Road, Amato Drive and Trails End Road. The new connection with Whites Bridge Road will not have a signal but will have appropriate turn lanes.

The existing intersection of Manchester Drive and Route 35 will receive improvements, including a new traffic signal. This existing segment of Manchester Drive will be rehabilitated, and the pavement surface will be milled off and repaved. A middle connector road of .14 miles will be built beginning at the Franklin Drive and Route 302 intersection and extending southwesterly to Landing Road some 755 feet.

Not everyone attending the open house supported every aspect of the project.

Bob Hynick, the Operating Partner for KFC/Taco Bell at 755 Roosevelt Trail in Windham says he’s hoping MDOT’s plans can be altered or modified and that MDOT and the Town of Windham will listen to the concerns of local business owners that a center median and bypass roads will be detrimental to their operations by reducing customer access and limiting left-hand turns into and out of their establishments.

“As an Operating Partner for the KFC/Taco Bell in Windham, I appreciate the investments being made in Windham’s infrastructure but have serious concerns about the proposed installation of a center median divider on Roosevelt Trail that will reduce vehicle access to our restaurant and several neighboring businesses,” Hynick said.

The KFC/Taco Bell location has been part of the Windham community for decades and employs 20 people, he said.

“Eliminating left turns into and out of the property could significantly restrict customers’ access to us and impact our ability to operate,” Hynick said. “We hope to be part of this community for decades more and ask that Windham reconsider this portion of the project to see the impact planned bypasses will have on traffic flow and explore alternative solutions that won’t harm local businesses like ours.”

Kyron Hobdy and Cyndi Ambriz of Windham live off White’s Bridge Road and say improvements there will be helpful.

“I like it,” Hobdy said. “During the summer it will mean easier access for us.”

Ambriz said when the project is finished it will take some adjusting to get used to it.

“Around Walmart you’d have to go down and around and that will take some getting used to,” she said. “In the long run it’s going to be better. 

Use the QR Code below to see detailed plans for the project. <

 <

Windham Town Budget passes during lengthy Annual Town Meeting

By Ed Pierce

In what turned out as a marathon 4 ½-hour town meeting, Windham’s $8.9 million budget was eventually passed through a series of unexpected developments and twists that anyone in attendance just couldn’t make up.

Members of the Windham Town Council and staff gather
before the Annual Windham Town Meeting at Windham 
Town hall on Saturday, June 14. From left are Councilor
David Nadeau, Assistant Town Manager Bob Burns, Town
Clerk Linda Morell, Councilor Mark Morrison, Councilor
John Henry, Councilor Jarrod Maxfield, Councilor Bill
Reiner, and Town Manager Barry Tibbetts.
PHOTO BY ED PIERCE  

With more than 130 Windham residents on hand for the Annual Town Meeting at Windham Town Hall on Saturday, June 14, concerned voters questioned nearly each of the 30 town warrant articles, wanting explanations for increases in spending and sharing their opinions about budgeting proposals put forward by the Windham Town Council.

Having elected former State Rep. Gary Plummer of Windham as Town Meeting Moderator, the first six out of the 30 warrant articles were approved following discussions and clarifications by Windham Town Manager Barry Tibbetts.

But voters rejected Article 7 asking for approval of a municipal budget of $39.9 million, and that meant votes were required for each of the next 11 articles. Among those, only Article 8, asking for an increase of 11.39 percent and $8.9 million funding general government operations for fiscal year 2025-2026 was defeated by voters as determined by the moderator. Article 8 included funding for Windham Town Hall offices and services and some contractual expenses, such as benefits for town police officers.

All the other warrant articles were approved by voters, except for Articles 24, 25, 26, and 27, those dealt specifically with creating and funding a new public skating rink and playground in North Windham at a cost of $3 million and renovations to Gambo Park with new soccer field, recreational trails and improved parking at an expense of $3 million.

Article 22, a proposal to construct a new North Windham Public Safety Building behind Hannaford Supermarket off Route 302, involved a lengthy discussion and many questions raised by voters about acquiring the site property, housing a Cumberland County Sheriff’s Patrol Office in the building, and the need to replace the current North Windham Fire Station on Route 302, a structure built in 1960. Tibbetts said approving the article would add 5 cents to the town’s millage rate.

“This substation building meets the needs of today and for the future,” Tibbetts said. Voters approved Article 22 agreeing to its $10 million cost through a combination of $4 million in Tax Increment Financing, using $2.4 million from the town’s General Fund, using impact fees of $1.1 million and obtaining a general obligation bond of $2.5 million.

After the 30 articles had been discussed and voted upon, Tibbetts then reviewed what the implications of the rejection of Article 8 would mean, including the difficulty of rescheduling and legally posting another town meeting, shutting down Windham Town Hall on July 1, potentially laying off employees and not having necessary revenue to meet contractual bills and defaulting on town obligations.

By this time, and after four hours, at least half of residents attending had left the meeting. A series of actions then happened that reversed the earlier vote on Article 8. A voter who had voted no previously then formally made a motion to change his vote, and then a second voter who had voted no to Article 8 previously made a motion to change their vote too and seconded the motion on the floor to reopen the article.

The first voter who had changed his vote then made a motion to amend the budget, proposing to reduce it by $600,000. That was also seconded by another voter who had voted no previously. That meant the original proposed $8.9 budget was back on the table.

Before a discussion on that, a voter from the audience moved to adjourn the meeting and it was quickly seconded. A show of hands to adjourn was too close for the moderator to call, and so votes were counted by the town clerk. The vote to adjourn was voted down.

Following a discussion about amending the budget, a vote to amend the $8.9 million was voted down and then Article 8 as originally proposed was then passed by those in attendance.

At each step voters didn't have to do what they did or vote the way they did. And those who left the meeting didn't have to leave and could have changed the voting.

Windham resident J.P. Belanger attended the Annual Town Meeting and said it was both an eye-opener and a civics lesson.

“Watching the process unfold gave me a deeper appreciation for how our local government works – and how much our participation matters. I left the meeting feeling cautiously optimistic. The approved budget reflects rising costs but also shows our community’s commitment to progress,” he said. “I was especially encouraged to see long-overdue projects like the North Windham Fire Station moving forward – a crucial investment in public safety. At the same time, I was disappointed by the reconsideration of Article 8 during what became a historic 4 1/2-hour meeting. By the time the article was brought back for a vote, many residents had already left. It raised important concerns about transparency and fairness. When community members make the effort to show up and vote, they deserve confidence that those decisions won’t be reversed once attendance thins out. I also share the concerns voiced by others about the rising tax burden. Even modest increases can strain household budgets – especially for seniors living on fixed incomes. With inflation continuing to drive up the cost of essentials like food, fuel, and healthcare, many older residents are feeling the squeeze more than ever. It’s important that we keep their needs in mind as we plan for the future. Perhaps most of all, I wish more residents had been present. These meetings shape the future of our town, and broader participation would help ensure more voices are heard. I look forward to attending more of them myself – because being informed and involved is the best way to strengthen the community.”

Over the days following the town meeting, many angry residents expressed disappointment over the budget passing and claiming they felt “duped” and “disenfranchised” that the Article 8 budget was brought back up for another vote after many who had voted no had left the meeting.

Windham Town Councilor Bill Reiner said he understands the concerns raised.

“I believe it was the fourth item vote of the meeting that was; “Adoption of the rules of procedure as outlined in MMA Moderators Manual.” Those were the rules accepted by a show of hands vote, and the rules followed. All 27 pages of it, it’s not simple but very black and white.”

Reiner said this was the best turnout for a town meeting in four years he’s served on the council.

“Yes, it’s my personal opinion that it’s a terrible time to have an election, but it is stipulated in the town charter that it be the second Saturday of June. Our hands are tied until a change is made,” he said. “Regarding the Town Meeting versus a Referendum vote; each has its advantages and drawbacks. Most clearly that numbers matter greatly in a town meeting forum or any election that has a low turnout. A Referendum vote and a larger turnout is more representative of the population, but no discussions or explanation would be available for voters and referendum language can be tricky."

According to Reiner, he understands that people had valid reasons to leave before the end of the meeting.

“But the town meeting is a live meeting and continues until adjourned,” he said. “People have asked can any item be brought back to the floor and the answer is yes, but only if motioned and seconded by two individuals that had cast a prevailing vote. This is done usually to reconsider or reopen discussion. I can honestly state that there was no plan in place to proceed as was done to reconsider any failed articles. I say this by a simple fact. The two failed capital projects were supported by both staff, and I believe four other councilors and others in attendance yet failed to pass. The town easily could have suggested that both capital project articles be brought back up for reconsideration by two individuals on the prevailing side but did not. If the ‘town’ orchestrated Article 8 because ‘it was to their advantage’ as individuals left early, it easily could have done the same with Gambo and the Skate Park articles.” <

WHS softball heads to Class A State Championship Game

By Matt Pascarella

Windham High’s varsity softball team has been playing together since they were in Little League. In addition to a strong season, it makes these last few games together much more special. Windham earned the spot to play one more time as they won the Class A regional title against top-ranked Cheverus 1-0 at Saint Joseph’s College on Tuesday, June 17. This was second-place Windham’s second regional title win in the program’s recent history and is headed to the Class A State championship for the second time in the last three years.

Windham High School's softball team defeated Cheverus,
1-0, to win the Class A Regional championship and 
advance to the Maine Class A State Softball Championship
Game at Saint Joseph's College on Saturday afternoon.
 

Until now, Cheverus has been a challenge for Windham during the 2025 season; the Lady Eagles had lost twice to the Stags before the start of playoffs. Windham also found themselves in a similar situation last year in the regional playoff game up against the first-place team, but that time Windham lost.

“When we ended last year’s regional final game, it didn’t feel like we got beat by the other team, it felt like we got beat by ourselves,” said Windham varsity softball coach Darcey Gardiner. “Since that moment there has been a hunger inside these girl’s bellies to be right back here (at the regional championship). And it’s not like they wanted to be back here facing any old team; they wanted to be back here facing the best. To see them step up to that challenge, that’s the confidence that we’re looking for when you talk about teenage girls and sports, that’s that kind of steady confidence that we try to build with them all year long throughout practice.”

This Windham team has been together, playing in tough championships – and winning them – since playing together in Little League. This group knows each other, knows what it takes to win a state championship and is up to the task of a state championship win.

Gardiner said that while the game is fun, the girls treat it as a job and come out and to do it to the best of their ability no matter the stakes.

Starting pitcher and senior Kennedy Kimball had pitched very little against the Stags this season and pitched this entire game.

“I was definitely nervous because I hadn’t seen them,” said Kimball. “My mindset was to go at a lot of the hitters and let them get themselves out almost. Like hit ground balls and pop-flies because I trusted my defense behind me. It was really to try to not walk a lot of people and really go at them – make them be able to hit.”

It's meaningful for WHS seniors to end the season on a high note.

“As a senior, I can’t be more grateful,” said Windham’s Chloe Edwards, who scored Windham’s run. “We knew going into this it wasn’t going to be an easy game, now that we’re here and (I’m wearing this medal), I can’t wait for the next one. Being here again and with this group of girls ... and the fact that we’re here again on that same motivation I have no doubt that we’ll succeed at what we did here today. We knew coming into this it wasn’t going to be an easy game, but from last year we had so much adrenaline and drive, and we came for the win. We got off that bus excited and there was no stopping us once we started going.”

Kimball said she’s glad they’ve made it to this point in their senior year; since a lot of them have been playing since Little League for so long – it’s a really cool experience for the seniors and she’s really glad this is how they get to end their last year.

Windham has worked so hard for so long, and players say they are ready for the State Championship Game. They’ve had a phenomenal season and are ready to make this season special, like it was in 2023, when they won their first State Championship ever. They’ve got the skills and team chemistry to do so.

“They know each other better than they know themselves,” said Gardiner. “The comradery, they respect each other, how they play off each other’s strengths and weaknesses, again they’ve been doing this since Little League and I’m here to kind of help steer the ship. This team has been so equipped for this state championship since they were in fifth and sixth grade.”

Edwards said they’ve got to go into Saturday ready to have fun, stay loose and be themselves.

Windham (17-2) will take on Edward Little (13-6) in the Class A State Championship at Saint Joseph’s College at 4 p.m. on Saturday, June 21 <

Preparations for Windham Summerfest ramping up

By Masha Yurkevich

The beginning of June means that Windham Summerfest is coming up soon, and once again this year it promises to be a daylong event filled with fun activities and getting to know your community better.

Windham Summerfest is welcoming back the popular band 
Motor Booty Affair for a performance at this year's festivities
on Saturday, June 21. COURTESY PHOTO 

The event is being held on Saturday, June 21 at Windham High School. The Summerfest parade line-up starts at 11 a.m. and the parade kicking off at noon. All other activities following the event will start at 1 p.m. at WHS.

The Grand Marshal for the Windham Summerfest Parade will be Charlie Hammond, former Windham Fire Chief. The Modern Woodmen of American Hometown Hero for this year will be the “Walk a Mile in Their Shoes” Foundation created by Bill Diamond of Windham.

“The mission statement we use is ‘Bringing Unity to the Community,’” says Deb Matthews, Chair of the Windham Summerfest. “We all feel that sharing this day with our families, neighbors and fellow community members shows us what an amazing town that Windham is. We want everyone to join us for a free fun filled day and make the best of it.”

She suggests visiting and bringing a picnic lunch, some folding chairs and spending the day with the community.

Not only is the Windham Summerfest a fun way to spend the day, but it is also a wonderful way to get some advance Christmas shopping done while supporting your local community vendors.

As participants, many often do not see everything that goes into preparation for the Summerfest and all the challenges that come with it.

“A big challenge and difference that we are faced with is trying to keep it fresh and new,” says Matthews. “We want to engage all ages with the offerings, with the music and the activities. We are always on the lookout for a new way to entertain the community members whether it is a new musician or a different activity. We always welcome new committee members with a different perspective. Each year presents us with new challenges, and we face them head on. I think the biggest challenge this year was the rising cost of so many of our offerings. We have so many generous business sponsors and many had to cut back. We appreciate every single one of our sponsors and their continued support. We also have to thank the Town of Windham and Windham Parks and Recreation; without their financial support and day to day help, we would not be able to do this.”

For Matthews, one of her favorite parts about the Summerfest is the music.

“As always, I am excited about the music. The bands this year truly offer a variety of sounds for many generations. Motor Booty Affair always has us on our feet, dancing the night away and waiting for the fireworks. Them Talking Monkeys start the day at 1 p.m. with a mix of 70s and 80s rock that will have you jumping out of your seat. The Vista Cruisers will make the 3 p.m. start time fun for the ‘oldies’ lovers in the crowd,” says Matthews. “We will have a ‘block’ party before the parade at the corner of Windham Center Road and Route 202 with Tyler Dhone performing from 10:30 a.m. until the parade kicks off at noon. This is our latest change to try to bring people out and enjoy this special day.”

While the event will go on rain or shine, Matthews and everybody involved in the event are hoping for sunny skies.

“We have had many years of Summerfest being cold or rainy, this year we are all praying for sunshine,” says Matthews.

Michael O’Neal with Keeping Kids Safe will also be present at Summerfest. O’Neal is a former part time Deputy Sheriff for Cumberland County for over 17 years and is the founder of Keeping Kids Safe (KKS), a non-profit which started in 2008. Keeping Kids Safe offers personal safety training and teaches the Grip, Dip, and Spin technique that could help save children from predators. He also teaches various other child-friendly programs and educational programs like anti-bullying, internet safety, and date escape.

Apart from selling hamburgers at Summerfest, O’Neal spreads awareness about internet safety and about what Keeping Kids Safe does.

“We teach our kids the Stop, Drop, and Roll method in fire but we never taught our kids what to do if a stranger grabs them,” says O’Neal. “Social media is a great tool, but also a very dangerous one.”

2025 Summerfest promises to be a day full of fun and the community is strongly encouraged to attend the event and enjoy live music, local food, and end the day with fireworks.

“We want the community to know that the event is free to all,” says Matthews. “If you choose to purchase food from the nonprofit food vendors or from one of our many talented crafter/vendors, that would be amazing but not required. We just want everyone to know we do it for the whole community and hope that they have one of the best days.” <

RSU 14 budget passes, Raymond elects municipal candidates

By Ed Pierce

By a margin of just 200 votes, the RSU 14 annual budget was approved by voters in Windham and Raymond during Tuesday’s election.

Raymond voters have elected Susan Accardi, left, to the
RSU 14 Board of Directors, and Christopher Hanson, center,
and Kaela Gonzalez to the Raymond Board of Selectmen.
Accardi, Hanson and Gonzalez will serve three-year terms.
SUBMITTED PHOTOS   

In Windham, voters rejected the proposed $67.8 million budget, with 651 votes in favor and 676 voting no. But 408 voters in Raymond cast ballots approving the budget and 183 voted no. The combined totals resulted in 1,059 votes to approve the budget with 859 opposed.

The budget represents a 12.75 percent increase over last year’s $60,185,403 budget, with a 6.4 percent increase stemming from the construction of the new Windham Raymond Middle School. To offset that, the school district will receive an additional state subsidy to cover almost half of the increase, resulting in an impact to taxpayers of 6.5 percent. Included in the RSU 14 budget are regular operating expense increases and a Pre-K expansion program.

Voters in both towns approved a question asking if the current RSU 14 budget voting should be continued for the next three years. In Windham, 962 votes were cast in favor of this with 347 voting no. In Raymond, 347 voted to continue the budget voting process, with 183 voting no. Combined totals were 1,457 votes for, and 530 votes opposed.

In Raymond, two new members of the town’s Board of Selectmen were elected for three-year terms.

Christopher Hanson received 350 votes, and Kaela Gonzalez tallied 328 votes to earn seats on the Select Board. Hanson is the code enforcement officer for Raymond and graduated from the University of Maine Orono. He also serves as a member of Raymond’s Budget-Finance Committee. Gonzalez is a program coordinator with the city of Portland and has a degree in Health Science. She has served on various town committees including the town’s most recent Comprehensive Plan Committee and she formerly worked for the Town of Raymond.

Also receiving votes for the Raymond Select Board were Frederick Miller (239 votes) and Mark Meister (204 votes). All 30 municipal approval questions asked of Raymond voters were approved, including spending $67,500 for a partnership with the Regional Transportation Program to establish a QuickRide program. Once created, local riders using QuickRide will be able to schedule transportation to pick them up and take them where they want to go within the Raymond community for a nominal fee.

Raymond voters also elected three members to the town’s Budget Finance Committee for three-year terms. Karen Lockwood (443 votes), Shawn McKillop (392 votes) and Deanna Lee (375 votes) were elected to serve on the committee.

Susan Accardi received 366 votes to Diana Froisland’s 272 votes to serve a three-year term on the RSU 14 Board of Directors representing Raymond. Accardi is a retired registered nurse and served as a school nurse with RSU 14. She has been a member of the Raymond Budget-Finance Committee for two terms, been a member of various short-term town committees, has served as a town ballot clerk and sits on the Board of Directors of the Friends of the Raymond Village Library.

The Annual Town Meeting for Windham will be conducted at 10 a.m. Saturday, June 14 in the Town Hall Gymnasium on School Road in Windham. During the meeting, voters will be asked to approve the municipal services budget for fiscal year 2025–2026 as approved by the Windham Town Council.

The Windham budget proposal of $50,402,149 is a 6.39 percent increase from last year’s $46,991,715 budget and includes funding for several significant capital improvement projects in the town.

Should the budget pass, Windham will construct a new North Windham Public Safety Building housing firefighters behind Hannaford Supermarket on Route 302, design and construct new playing fields at Gambo Fields, build a new public ice rink and playground in North Windham, and continue funding for the North Windham Moves and sewer projects. <

WHS grad conquers challenges to achieve dream

By Ed Pierce

To all that know her, Afomiya Timerga, certainly lives up to the meaning of her first name. In Ethiopian, Afomiya means “pure joy” and among Windham High School’s Class of 2025, no one personifies the definition of overcoming personal challenges to achieve joy and happiness more than her.

Afomiya Timerga moved to the United States from Ethiopia
as a 5-year-old and became a U.S. citizen in 2015. She is
among the Class of 2025 graduates at Windham High School
and will attend the University of Southern Maine to study
marketing and accounting. She plans to become a real estate
agent and own a business someday. PHOTO BY ED PIERCE  

Afomiya moved to the United States at the age of 5 from her birthplace of Ethiopia, speaking very little English but embracing the endless possibilities of freedom and living in a nation free of war, poverty, disease, and a daily struggle to survive. It wasn’t easy at first to fit in, but she did her best to adapt to her new life with her mother in Portland.

“The hardest part was adjusting to a new country,” Timerga said. “When you’re younger it is easier to pick up on things. I tried to make friends and learn the language.”

Having attended elementary school in Portland, another huge transition took place in Timerga’s life when her mother, Abebanesh Abdela, purchased a home in Windham and her family, including Afomiya, her brother Musea Timo, and her sister Minaida Timon, relocated here when she was halfway through seventh grade.

“It was like I was starting over again,” she said. “At my school in Portland I knew everyone, but here I didn’t know anybody in Windham and felt isolated and alone. But eventually I made friends at Windham Middle School and things gradually improved.”

In 2015, she joined her mother in becoming a U.S. citizen during a ceremony in Portland.

“My biggest role model in life is my mom. She’s shown me what it truly means to work hard, raising three children on her own as a single mother,” Timerga said. “Despite the challenges, she remains strong, determined, and full of faith. She’s helped me stay grounded in my relationship with God, especially in a world full of distractions and temptations. Through her example, I’ve learned the value of a strong work ethic and the importance of never giving up, no matter what life throws at you.”

During her time at Windham High School, she tried to avoid the spotlight to some extent but worked to consistently make a positive impact at the school.

“Whether it was through my involvement in the Black Student Union, where I worked to create a more inclusive and supportive environment, or simply by encouraging others and staying true to who I am, I’ve always aimed to lead by example,” Timerga said. “I believe that small actions, showing up, staying kind, and being dependable, can make a big difference.”

To do that, Timerga said one of her biggest challenges that she had to overcome was learning how to believe in herself.

“Throughout high school, I have felt self-doubt, stress, and the responsibilities that I had to keep up with,” she said. “I also learned how to manage my time and balance everything out. There were many nights where I felt exhausted and was not sure that I could make it, but I did. Something a lot of my classmates may not know about me is that I’m not as quiet as I seem. While I may come off as reserved at first, I’m actually very hard-working, passionate, and determined behind the scenes. Once I’m comfortable, I open up more and people are often surprised by how driven and focused I am on my goals.”

Timerga credits two teachers at WHS in helping her.

“I want to thank my BSU advisor, Tianna Burton, and my tennis coach and French teacher, Kary Dresnok,” she said. “Mrs. Burton has been more than just a teacher, ever since I met her, she has been a guiding light. She pushes me to do better, not just academically, but as a person. When I created the Black Student Union, I created and built a safe space for me to find my voice and connect with others who share a similar experience. My tennis coach also played a huge part in my growth, and reaching graduation because on and off the court, she has taught me to stay disciplined and work hard for what I want. Whenever I was in trouble, I could always count on her for advice.”

Of all the classes she took at Windham High, several are more memorable for Timerga than the rest.

“The two that stand out to me the most were Honors Chemistry and Honors US History,” she said. “Honors Chemistry was the first class that taught me to study independently and how to manage my time. I focused on staying disciplined and pushing through difficult topics, and in that process, I became a better student. The hardest class I took at WHS was Honors Chemistry. It really pushed me to my capacity because the materials required a lot. Looking back, I appreciate that class because it is another testimony that even though it might be hard when you're in it, it all works out in the end because I passed that class and I made it through. I also enjoyed Honors History because the way it was taught made everything come to life. There was never a dull moment in that class where I wasn’t engaged.”

She says that her favorite teacher at Windham High School is Tianna Burton because she has been there for her and has guided her to do better in every situation, making her comfortable and giving her a place of belonging.

As a student, Timerga considers her greatest strength to be the ability to get it done no matter what.

“I don’t easily give up on materials and I seek out help when needed,” she said. “I’m able to stay focused and when it gets hard, I’m not afraid to ask for help. I have learned throughout the years that I can’t do everything on my own. If I need help, then I should speak up for myself and ask for help when needed. One fact that I learned while at WHS is that not everybody is going to agree with you. It’s how you take the disagreement that really matters. I’ve learned that staying respectful, open-minded, and true to yourself is more important than always being right. This lesson has helped me grow – not just as a student, but as a person – and it’s something I’ll carry with me throughout life.”

After graduation, her immediate plan is to go to college. She’s been accepted to attend the University of Southern Maine where she will be majoring in accounting and marketing.

“After completing my education, I hope to enter the business world, possibly starting my own company or working in accounting or marketing,” Timerga said. “I am also interested in real estate. Whatever I choose to do, I know that I will succeed because I have faith and I’m guided and protected always. My number one goal is to be happy.” <

Raymond voters to determine van program’s fate

By Dina Mendros

Raymond voters will decide Tuesday whether to approve funding a transportation system that would provide rides to grocery stores, doctors’ appointments and the like. The ride system would provide transportation for seniors, those without licenses and others who find it difficult to get where they need to go.

Raymond voters will decide on June 10 whether to fund a
mini-van for RTP's QuickRide program which would
schedule and provide transportation for local residents
anywhere within the town. SUBMITTED PHOTO 

At the June 10 election, residents will vote on whether to approve $67,500 in funding – Article 19, Referendum Question Q on the Town Warrant – which would be the town’s share for the QuickRide program. The town would partner with the Regional Transportation Program which would provide the service.

Unlike a typical bus service where people wait at established bus stops to catch a bus that drives a specific route, riders using QuickRide would schedule, either via telephone or online, a micro-van that would pick them up at their home and take them where they want to go within the Raymond community.

Raymond Town Manager Joseph Crocker compared the bus to an Uber service that provides door-to-door service.

“The thought is to get people to be transported to groceries or doctors’ appointments, things like that, in the area,” Crocker said. “Use almost like an Uber that comes to your house but through RTP. They have an app or office to call to schedule (a ride). They’ll pick you up at your location and then drop you off at either appointments or groceries. So it’s kind of like a scheduled transportation service. So, it’s a little more customizable than just a regular bus stop.”

The Quick Ride program is needed in Raymond, Crocker said.

“Public transportation has definitely been on the radar for people,” he said. “Obviously, being a rural area, it’s kind of tough to get to certain areas for like shopping or anything like that. It’s definitely been something that’s been heard in our community.”

Currently, Age Friendly Coordinator Debbie Tarr has been taking seniors to appointments in her own car, Crocker said. If voters do approve funding for the RTP mini-van program it will take the strain off Tarr and offer the ability to accommodate more people.

If approved, the QuickRide program would run Mondays through Fridays from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. It would start sometime this summer and continue year-round. Customers would pay about $3 per ride.

RTP Executive Director Don Libby said if Raymond voters approve funding, RTP and the town would run a 12-month QuickRide pilot program and then reevaluate how the program is working.

The program was started in January 2024 in Windham; it also runs in Gorham and Standish.

“The goal,” Libby said, “is to run in every town up and down the 302 corridor to Bridgton.”

The QuickRide program is working well in Windham, said Windham’s Age Friendly Coordinator Erica Bell-Watkins.

One of the reasons that Windham adopted the program was because transportation was identified as one of the top needs in a community survey, she said.

Anyone of any age can take advantage of the program, but it’s especially important for seniors, Bell-Watkins said.

“As people get older and decide not to drive or people sometimes use it because they’re getting their eyes dilated or getting a colonoscopy so it’s not just for people who don’t drive it’s for people who are not driving that day,” she said. “That QuickRide program has been very helpful. “It’s all been successful.”

She said she shared Windham’s experience with a town staffer in Raymond.

“I told her I thought it would be great for Raymond because it has been a great success here,” Bell-Watkins said.

Election Day voting in Raymond will take place from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday, June 10 at Jordan-Small Middle School. <

Burns to lead Windham as Town Manager as Tibbetts retires

By Ed Pierce

When historians look back upon this chapter in Windham government, it will show that the town’s emphasis on succession planning works.

Windham Town Manager Barry Tibbetts, right, is resigning
effective July 1 and will be succeeded in that role by
Assistant Town Manager Robert Burns. Tibbetts will 
remain with the town through the remainder of the
year overseeing Windham's sewer and wastewater 
projects and the creation of access roads in 
North Windham. PHOTO BY ED PIERCE 

During Tuesday night’s Windham Town Council meeting, Windham Town Manager Barry Tibbetts announced he will step down effective June 30 and councilors appointed Assistant Town Manager Robert Burns to succeed Tibbetts as Town Manager.

Tibbetts has served as Windham’s Town Manager since November 2019, first on an interim basis and then was made the permanent town manager in March 2020. He came to Windham with extensive municipal experience and experience in local government, administrative operations, budgeting, regulatory functions, and community relations and had served as the Kennebunk Town Manager through 2017. Upon his retirement with Kennebunk and prior to being hired by Windham, Tibbetts worked with a small energy start-up business and developed a consulting business in energy and governmental services. He earned an undergraduate degree from the University of Southern Maine, and he also earned an MBA degree during his career in government.

Burns joined Windham as the town’s first Assistant Town Manager in December 2021. He graduated from Yarmouth High School before obtaining a Bachelor of Science degree in Forest Engineering from the University of Maine at Orono. Following college, Burns worked both in Maryland in Public Works and in Florida as a consulting environmental engineer. After that, he returned to Maine and served as the Public Works Director and Town Engineer in Gorham for 18 years.

As Tibbetts transitions to full-time retirement, he will stay on with the town as Special Projects Manager overseeing several significant projects such as the installation of sewers and the construction of access roads to alleviate traffic congestion in North Windham. But his legacy of accomplishments guiding Windham as Town Manager is lengthy and noteworthy, including being honored with Maine Town, City and County Management Association’s 2022 Leadership Award.

He played a pivotal role developing Windham’s wastewater treatment solution for North Windham, the creation of a connector road system to alleviate traffic congestion in the Route 302 corridor and Windham’s approval of the East Windham Conservation Project in which hundreds of acres were permanently conserved by the town for the enjoyment of future generations of Windham residents. Tibbetts was also instrumental in Windham adopting new land use, floodplain management and shoreland ordinances, and he led the town’s conversion to an automated trash collection system in 2024.

Under his watch, the town council approved a cannabis ordinance in 2020 resulting in cannabis shop licensing fees being used by the town to award scholarships to deserving students. In 2021, Tibbetts helped the town adopt a new open space plan, a comprehensive look at Windham’s open space network of conservation and recreational assets.

Tibbetts says he’s been fortunate to have two great “runs” leading both Kennebunk and Windham as Town Manager.

“Being a member of Maine Town City Management Association (MTCMA) along with the International City Managers Association has been a great experience,” he said. “I am humbled to have been given the opportunity to serve both organizations. Serving Windham has been an incredibly rewarding chapter in my career. Together with a talented and dedicated staff and in collaboration with the Town Council, we have made meaningful progress in infrastructure, environmental initiatives, community planning, and public service delivery.

“From the North Windham Sewer Project, North Windham Moves, to the East Windham Conservation Project, Fire and Police Station facilities and through numerous ordinances and policy initiatives, I am proud of the impact we’ve made to position Windham for a strong and sustainable future. Windham has been placed in a strong financial position for the future,” Tibbetts said. “With this planned transition, I am pleased to note that Assistant Town Manager Robert Burns will be stepping into the role as part of our ongoing succession plan. Robert has proven himself to be a capable and committed leader, with extensive project and managerial skills and I am confident he will continue to serve Windham with integrity and vision. Knowing I cannot stand still, I will be there to support Bob for a few months to assist in the major municipal infrastructure projects and out of the limelight.”

Windham Town Council members expressed sadness that Tibbetts will be retiring, but praised his leadership, what he has accomplished for Windham, and believe Burns will do an excellent job in succeeding him as Town Manager.

“Working with Barry these last five years has been a great experience as he has dedicated himself to making Windham a better place for all residents,” said Windham Town Council Chair Jarrod Maxfield. “When we hired Barry, Windham was in transition and in need of someone to lead us and he did just that and more and he has given more years to Windham than he originally planned, showing his commitment to us. Without Barry, I know we would not have accomplished half of what has been done in the last few years; he has been instrumental in Windham’s success. And he has worked hand in hand with Bob Burns who has proven himself to be a great leader who will take the hand off and continue the success Windham is and will see. Windham is lucky to have both of them working for our success.”

Town Councilor David Nadeau agrees.

“After a two-year search the town and town council was blessed to find Barry. His work efforts, drive, and creativity cannot be matched,” Nadeau said. On his arrival he was pointed to a shelf which contained studies and projects going back to previous years but never put in play. Barry prioritized them and then proceeded to put them in play. First by using different ways to finance them such as using TIF, grants, impact fees, and layering bonds, which will help Windham in the future. This approach raised Windham’s bond rating to AA. The project consisted of a sewer project, connector roads, 500 plus acres of open space, growth ordinance, and the list goes on. Knowing his time was short, Barry looked at staff and developed a succession plan, one of the holes filled was an assistant town manager, enter Robert Burns. Mr. B is not Barry but under Barry’s tutelage has developed the skill set needed to keep Windham moving forward. I would like to thank them both for their effort.”

Town Council Bill Reiner said having Burns available to step into the Town Manager role is of great benefit to Windham.

“As Barry moves into retirement, Bob will move up internally into the Town Manager Role. Bob has served as Assistant Town Manager since I have been on the council, and I have confidence in his capability moving forward,” Reiner said. “While he was offered several manager positions in several other towns, Bob chose to remain with Windham. He has been involved in all ongoing projects and has excellent knowledge of each and what will be needed to bring them home. While the town is in an excellent position both financially and in regard to ongoing projects, Barry will remain on until early January as a Special Projects Manager. While he will now answer to Bob, Barry will provide additional support while the town looks for a new Assistant Manager to fill the now vacant position.”

Reiner said the council did not look at this change in position lightly, but the contract hammered out involving both Tibbetts and Burns were acceptable by both the town and individuals.

“The town council could have interviewed for the position, but with multiple Town Manager positions unfilled within the state, and the lengthy search for finding Barry several years back, the town would have been remiss in not attempting to keep Bob,” he said. <

Windham student first graduate from Integrated Studies Program at Saint Joseph’s College

By Dina Mendros

When Joanne Haibon graduated from high school, she didn’t consider going to college. The 26-year-old Windham resident has autism. Then her mother, Mary Haibon, learned of a pilot program at Saint Joseph’s College of Maine that seemed like it would be a good fit for her daughter.

Windham resident Joanne Haibon was the
first graduate from Saint Joseph's College
of Maine's new Integrated Studies Program.
She graduated from the program  on May 10.
SUBMITTED PHOTO  

Joanne was the first to apply to, be accepted into, and complete the Integrated Studies Program at the Standish school. The program is designed to provide a college experience for students with intellectual disabilities. It seeks to support every participant at their current academic level. Joanne was the first to graduate from the two-year non-credit certificate program on May 10.

Both Joanne and her mother said the program was “awesome.”

Initially, Joanne said she wasn’t interested in pursuing higher education. She said the last two years of high school “was not a pretty experience.” But after a little nudging from her mom, she applied to Saint Joseph’s.

“I was accepted, and it turned out to be a great experience,” Joanne said.

“The confidence and self-esteem that Joanne was able to build through this program,” Mary said, “all the skills that we’ve worked on for so long she really got to put into practice.”

In the beginning, going to college and attending classes was “overwhelming,” Joanne said. “But once you get past the overwhelming, you see it’s a lot easier.”

Students who enroll in the Integrated Studies Program can register for up to 16 credits per semester. Participants audit classes based on a modified curriculum tailored to their person-centered plans, said Shanna Webster, Associate Dean of Academic Success and Retention at Saint Joseph’s.

Joanne took a variety of courses in subjects like science, philosophy, communications and leadership at Saint Joseph’s. She also participated in internships each semester. A number of accommodations had to be made to help Joanne succeed.

For instance, she attended classes with a peer partner. Peer partners are students studying education and other programs that gave them the skills to help students like Joanne. Her peer partners helped Joanne by taking notes for her and helping her complete her assignments. Other accommodations that are available include having more time to take a test, completing fewer assignments and more.

During the two-year program, Mary said that she saw her daughter’s abilities grow.

“They really built up Joanne’s ability from the first semester, and the first class, to really doing much more the last semester,” Mary said. “By the end of her experience, Joanne was taking more notes, participating more fully in group projects and completing more of her assignments.”

“Everything was geared for her to be successful in the classroom,” Mary said.

Students in the Integrated Studies Program not only take classes but they can also participate in clubs and other college events and activities, like every other Saint Joseph student. Although Joanne was a commuter, those who want to live on campus to get the full college experience can do so.

The icing on the cake was when Joanne graduated.

“The ceremony was amazing,” Mary said. “When Joanne got up to get her certificate, the graduating class and everyone stood up and gave her a standing ovation.”

Although she has graduated, Joanne said that she plans to continue commuting to campus and work in the college mailroom.

Since Joanne, more students have been accepted into the program, and the Integrated Studies Program has been officially institutionalized.

“In the past year, we had three students enrolled in our Integrated Studies Program,” Webster said. “Two of these students were residents on campus, and we are thrilled that both will be returning for a second year. For fall 2025, we have already accepted another student participant and have a final interview scheduled this week for another promising candidate.”

Mary said she’s thrilled the program is continuing and growing. “Obviously we’re so proud of Joanne,” Mary said. “She worked through so much and a lot of anxiety to do this and we just want to see this program grow because it’s a wonderful opportunity for others.”

For those who are unsure if the Integrated Studies Program is for them, Joanne advises them to go for it.

“It will be worth it in the end,” she said. <

MSSPA launches campaign to build new intake barn

By Ed Pierce

The future is now for the Maine State Society for the Protection of Animals in Windham and a new $1.5 million fundraising campaign will help the organization build a new intake barn for abused and neglected horses to heal and recover.

The Maine State Society for the Protection of Animals is
conducting 'A Safe Place to Land' fundraising campaign to
raise $1.5 million to build a new eight-stall intake barn
at their facility on River Road in Windham. The project
includes improved paddocks and better footing for healing
horses. Shown is an artist's depiction of the new barn.
SUBMITTED PHOTO     

Kathy Woodbrey, MSSPA’s Executive Director, said that plans for the “Safe Place to Land” intake barn have been carefully weighed and discussed for the past two years, and the fundraising campaign has already reached more than halfway toward its $1.5 million goal.

“This will such a huge upgrade for us,” Woodbrey said. “Our current facilities, while functional, no longer meet the needs of our mission. This new barn is so much more than a barn, it’s a promise. A promise to every horse that has a safe place to land, to recover and to start life anew. Everything about the new barn has been discussed, from how the stall doors open to how the fencing is to be configured.”

MSSPA Advancement Director Peg Keyser said that in the last five years, the number of horses arriving at MSSPA has surged with many coming from cases of severe neglect, abuse, or with significant medical challenges. As the complexity of these cases grows, so does the urgency for a dedicated space where incoming horses can receive the care they desperately need.

Keyser says that the “Safe Place to Land” Capital Campaign is an opportunity to create that space, an intake and quarantine barn designed to offer every horse a safe and supportive beginning to their journey of healing.

“This vital facility, along with secure paddocks and necessary footing improvements, will provide the foundation for every horse’s recovery,” she said. “By working together, we can ensure that incoming horses are cared for in an environment that protects their health and wellbeing from the moment they arrive.”

For 152 years, the Maine State Society for the Protection of Animals (MSSPA) has been a sanctuary for Maine’s most vulnerable horses including those rescued from abuse, neglect, and heartbreaking circumstances. Its mission is to provide refuge, rehabilitation, and placement of seized equines. MSSPA does not charge for its shelter services and seeks no reimbursement from any public source. Horses cared for by the MSSPA come from Maine law enforcement officials and most of them have been abused or neglected.

According to Keyser, the MSSPA’s goal for each horse is rehabilitation and a new home, but if no suitable adoption is found, horses may live out their natural lives at the organization’s farm.

The “Safe Place to Land” campaign has already a matching gift of $500,000 from the McCulloch Family of Southern Maine who will be extended the opportunity to name the new barn. MSSPA also has been fortunate to receive donated thousands of feet of fencing and run-in sheds from the Dyke Horse Farm site in Windham, and RSU 14 now that the school district is building the new Windham Raymond Middle School at the Dyke farm site.

The site for the new intake barn sits on 7 acres of MSSPA’s 124-acre property on River Road in Windham. Plans call for the intake barn to be open-air with eight wooden stalls. The contractor for the intake barn project will be J.M. Brown and sitework will be completed by Shaw Brothers Construction.

Keyser said that the 3,000-square-foot barn will be built on the other side of the MSSPA property from where other horses being cared for are kept. The new barn will feature space for equipment and the project also will include the installation of an electronic security gate at the property.

The new barn will feature dedicated stalls for each equine arrival, reducing potential disease transmission and offering a dry, warm space for horses to heal. Its secure paddock areas and improved footing will allow horses to slowly acclimate to their new surroundings and room for veterinarians to perform health assessments. Because of its location away from the MSSPA herd, the new barn also will have separate grain and medication stations to prevent cross-contamination of food and medicine and streamlines operations for MSSPA staff.

Woodbrey said there is tremendous interest in this project and MSSPA’s engaged donor base consists of horse lovers willing to help.

“We welcome people to make a donation of any size,” she said. “We’re happy to give donors a tour and we really want to make it easy to support this project. The tens of thousands of dollars and donations we’ve received so far represents the best of this community and we could not be more grateful.”

To make a donation online, visit msspa.org/asafeplace or in person at MSSPA, 279 River Road in Windham.

Donations may also be made using the QR code: