Farmers market and friends this Saturday

The second of three winter month markets will take place this Saturday, Feb. 9, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Evening Star Grange Hall on Old Union Road. Local farmers producing Jersey milk and cheese, jams and jellies, pickles, baked goods, fresh eggs, garlic and dried herbs and other winter items will be joined by area artists and craftspeople. December’s successful holiday markets prompted regular vendors to include an old and rare books seller, a basket maker, photographers, a local painter, printmaker and framer, hand-forged iron creations, a wool and cashmere knitter, float rope mat maker, and others to be part of the event. A very welcome addition to the diverse sellers is French breads from the Foley family of Claddagh Farm in Montville. As always, the good Grange cooks will offer homemade soups for lunch — eat-in or to go — and provide hot coffee and a fun atmosphere. Come see us this Saturday and make a note that one more winter market is scheduled for March 9. After that, spring will be here and time for weekly markets.

SnowFest — outdoor fun and prizes

If you like the outdoors in winter, the annual SnowFest and Fishing Derby is a day of fun for you and your family. Saturday’s (the 9th) event, sponsored by the Hill & Gully Riders Snowmobile Club, takes place on Washington Pond at the public access on Razorville Road. The Fishing Derby awards prizes to the largest fish in several species categories and there are raffles for lots of good prizes including firewood. The Snack Shack is open all day with hot beverages, snacks and the ever popular hotdogs and hamburgers. I insist that the weather be good for this event, but just in case... rain date is Feb. 16.

Chowder supper complements Snow Fest

In conjunction with the snowmobile club’s outdoor event, Mt. Olivet Masonic Lodge is hosting its Snow Fest Chowder Supper Saturday from 4 to 6 p.m. The menu includes fish chowder, corn chowder, beef stew and chili. Any choice also includes biscuits, beverage and dessert. The Masons offer a good hot supper for after a day outdoors or for a warming winter meal for all of us. A very good deal at $7 for adults and $3.50 for kids. We’re already planning on it.

Washington Food Bank new location

The Washington Food Bank has moved to the Village Church on Liberty Road (Route 220 just north of the village). They will be conducting business once a month on the Wednesday that falls on or after the 10th of each month. The next date for the Food Bank is Feb. 13, from 9 to 11 a.m. The Food Bank is for anyone who needs confidential assistance with groceries. Pastor Tim Lewis is the contact person and can be reached at 845-2447.

Fundraiser for Elmer Leigh Sr.

Next Saturday, Feb. 16, there will be a fundraiser for cancer victim, Elmer Leigh Sr., at the Evening Star Grange Hall. Baked bean or chop suey suppers, coleslaw along with assorted desserts will be served from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. A donation of $8 for adults and $4 for children is requested. (Larger amounts are cheerfully accepted.) Elmer has been in Augusta (Maine General) Hospital for several weeks. His family and friends who are sponsoring of the supper, hope to defray some of the costs of his treatment.

Welcome new school board member

Sean Donaghy has been appointed by the select board to serve on the School Administrative District 40 board. His term will extend until March 2015. Sean lives and works here in town. He and his wife Amy have four children, one of whom attends Prescott school. Sean says he’s been thinking about getting more involved in community activities and when this opportunity came up, he decided school board was a good fit. We wish Sean success in this challenging and very important service to our kids and the town. Many thanks to Cynthia Rosen for her time on the board and good luck in the future.

Select board nominations

Nominations are being accepted for one three-year select board term. Papers must be filed with the town office by Feb. 12. If interested, contact the town office at 845-2897.