Sprucewold Column: Still time to enjoy the events

Thu, 08/21/2014 - 12:30pm

As August draws to a close, conversations begin to focus on packing up, dates of departure, beginning of school sessions and cool weather. But wait...not so fast. There is still a bit more time left for warm sunny days and memories waiting to happen. Sprucewold paths, seaside tidal pools, boating docks, and social events are still bursting with enthusiasm and vitality. Our residents continue to enjoy the final days to their fullest.

It is wonderful to see the roads and trails in the area busy with walkers and runners of all ages thriving to stay in shape and have fun. One of these runners, Laura Onderko, was the winner of this year’s Lobster Roll 5k road race. Laura not only won the race, but outran every female racer in the event’s five year history. Laura, a current medical student in Philadelphia, spent her teen years running the Sprucewold Area roads and paths with her sister, Elizabeth. Needless to say, her determination and hard work has paid off as she continues to pursue her interest by running 5-8 miles a day. Congratulations, Laura!

Have you been to the Boothbay Playhouse recent production of “Children of Eden”? If so, you were treated with not only a moving musical show inspired by the book of Genesis and the Story of Noah’s Ark, but the opportunity to see Karen and Bill Griffin’s grandchildren, Ally, Kate and Lily, in their ensemble roles.  In addition to participating in musical productions, the girls are perfecting their kayaking skills in the Linekin Bay under the guidance of their grandfather, Bill.  Recently the Griffin family enjoyed a visit from their son, Michael, who lives and works in Korea. He was joined by his brother Matt and family from New York City and his sister Melissa and family who reside in the area. What a wonderful reunion for the entire Griffin family.

Our beach attendant, Alex, has left to return to his home in Oklahoma to begin school. His grandfather, Ernie, says Alex is having a difficult time adjusting to the heat. Certainly, he has been spoiled by the beautiful Maine weather we have all enjoyed this summer. Thank you to Alex for taking on the responsibilities of a new attendant. It was great having him.

Due to the rainy weather, our brush chipping by Maine Forest Service has been rescheduled for Thursday, Aug. 21. We appreciate Curt Norred’s efforts in planning and organizing this event for the neighborhood as well as Larry Jaeger’s work in carrying out the plans in Curt’s absence this week.

Gretchen Murray was busy these past two weeks entertaining her two children and their families from the Philadelphia area. The four granddaughters added a lot of fun and excitement to the Murray cabin. Our Thompson cabin is also seeing much activity this week with the arrival of Brooks and the newlyweds, Bennett and Sarah. They have been busy fishing, boating, riding mopeds, and enjoying seafood dinners! It is always a pleasure to share the Maine experience with families and friends.

This past Saturday approximately 100 Sprucewolders enjoyed a delicious lobster and clam bake on a perfect summer evening at the Linekin Heights Green. Orchestrated by Elaine Rittershaus and the Rittershaus clan, guests were treated to lobster, clams, cole slaw, corn on the cob and blueberry cake for dessert. Lobsters and clams were provided by Atlantic Edge and done to perfection. Everyone gave a big round of applause for Elaine’s efforts. Elaine was not quite ready to say that she would do it again next year, but I suspect she could be enticed to do so. Again, we express our appreciation and thanks to Elaine and her crew.

At the same gathering, Gretchen Murray held the raffle drawing for the beautiful quilt made by Gail Kimball. The quilt featured a traditional pattern and was made with colorful batik fabrics.

The raffle raised over $1,500 for Nahanada Park. Gretchen thanked all those who purchased tickets to support the park. The lucky winner of the quilt was Boo Murray and she was thrilled.

If you are looking for some activity to close out your final days in Sprucewold, perhaps you want to consider some of the Boothbay Region Land Trust Hikes. The next hike is scheduled for 1 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 24 meeting at Barrett’s Park. This hike is entitled History Hike with Chip Griffin and reviews the history of the old Indian Trail through Lobster Cove Meadow and the Appalachee Preserve. It is important to contact the Boothbay Region Land Trust in order to preregister. Specific contact information is posted on fliers throughout Sprucewold. The fliers also list additional future hikes and specific details. Happy trails!