Boothbay, Boothbay Harbor, and Southport Democrats are hosting a community picnic at Barrett’s Park in Boothbay Harbor on Saturday, July 13, from noon to 4 p.m., rain or shine. The “Grill & Chill Community Picnic” is free and open to the public; however, donations are gratefully accepted.

In a spirit of community, collaboration, and celebrating what unites them, the Boothbay Region Democrats are set to host a fun, summer event with food, music, and guest speakers.

According to the organizers, this event promises to be a homespun outdoor, good time with neighbors and friends against the beautiful setting of Lobster Cove in Linekin Bay. Grilled hot dogs, hamburgers and veggie burgers, and light beverages are provided, as well as side dishes and desserts contributed by members and friends (if you would like to contribute a sweet or savory dish, please notify Paula Arsenault, Lee Pander, Bill Hammond or Bill Messmer).

Representative Holly Stover and District Attorney Natasha Irving will be on hand to address the gathering, as well as U.S. Senatorial candidates Betsy Sweet and Bre Kidman. Sara Gideon, Speaker of the Maine House and candidate for U.S. Senate, has also been invited.

Local musicians Marcus Hutchins, Jack Mears, and Bill Arsenault will provide live music, with an eclectic mix of pop, jazz, and folk. Families are welcome and are asked to bring a blanket or chairs.

The Boothbay Region Democrats comprise a partnership of municipal Democratic committee officers who have recently united in an effort to promote and propel shared Democratic and progressive values through local elections, policy, and actions. They are an open group, and welcome others who wish to participate.

Working closely with the Lincoln County Democratic Committee, the Boothbay Region Democratic Committee aims to positively engage in issues affecting their lives, now and in the future.

“Local Democrats are motivated to be proactive and to have a voice in our community. ‘Starting in our own backyard,’ with attainable goals, has proven to be an empowering and enriching exercise in political discourse for those of us who got involved,” according to Boothbay chairperson, Paula Arsenault.

The Grill & Chill Community Picnic will be the second public event sponsored by the Boothbay Region Democratic Committee, the first being the hugely successful “Brewing Democracy: A Night at the Opera House” last September.

For updates and more information please visit their Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/Boothbay-Region-Democrats-337750396841252/, or contact Paula Arsenault at paulamragsdale@gmail.com or call 207-380-7554. Pre-registration for the July 13 picnic is appreciated but not required.