Our beloved neighbors serving in the Coast Guard are not being paid during the government shutdown. Chief Adam Smart is permitted to receive donations to assist Coast Guard servicemen and women with unpaid bills. Here is how you can help:

1. Make a special donation. Donation boxes are being placed at the Y and many local businesses or your may be able to make a donation through your church (please check directly). Checks may be made out to: “Chief Petty Officers Association.” All donations will go directly to our local Coast Guard station and help will be administered by Chief Smart.

2. Help with a special fundraising dinner this Saturday night, Jan. 19 (5 to 7 p.m.) at the Congregational Church, 125 Townsend Avenue, Boothbay Harbor. The meal will be a simple pasta meal with plain or meat sauce, garlic bread, salad, and cake. All donations will be given to the “Chief Petty Officers Association.” Please contact Susan Reynolds as soon as possible if you can help (sreynolds.bbh@gmail.com) or contact Heather Lorrain in the Congregational Church office: 633-4757 with additional questions.