Hello Northport. Groundhog Day is behind us. The little critter made his appearance in advance of the “wicked” cold weather we all enjoyed over this past weekend. To be clear, seeing his shadow means there are six more weeks of winter. Not seeing his shadow means spring is on the way — keep the snow shovels and wool socks handy!
Encouraging news: Tim Patten, who has done an outstanding job overseeing the transfer station for the past 20 years, is on the mend, back in town and in rehab at Tall Pines. It has been a long journey. If you would like to send a card, send it care of the Town Office, 16 Beech Hill Road. Also at the Town Office, there is a message board to handwrite well wishes to Tim. I should also mention there is a GoFundMe site as well. The Town Office has those details.
In Tim’s absence, the transfer station is open Thursdays and Saturdays and is being manned by Richard Taylor, Drexel Bailey and Scott Patten. Gentlemen, thank you for your extra effort.
The Waldo County Woodshed asks that if you need firewood, please call ahead to Sonja at 323-5053. You can visit their Facebook page at facebook.com/waldocountywoodshed/ for more information. They will have wood at the transfer station for you, but you must call ahead and place your order.
Along the same lines, the Sand Shed on Beech Hill Road is there for residents in need of some grit. There is a two-bucket limit, and it is free for the taking. If the groundhog was right, your need for sand will continue for at least the next six weeks.
It is also past the Jan. 31 deadline for getting your dog licensed. Now there is a $75 late charge. Your dog will love his/her new Northport tag. They will wear it proudly as they show it off to other dogs sending the message, “I live in Northport.” Lucky dog!
In my travels, I had a good conversation with James Kossuth, the town administrator. It was actually the first time we met. It was a pleasure. Looks like we are in very good hands. He informed me that progress is being made relative to town-wide high-speed internet. GWI is days away from connecting its first customer. Beech Hill, Shore and Bluff roads are in the mix for Phase 1. Phase 2 is being planned at this time targeting late spring, early summer.
I should also note, under the leadership of Paul Rooney, the Fire Department has attracted a number of additional volunteers (could always use more) and he has gotten two additional people trained and certified for EMS positions. All steps in the right direction for such an important community function.
And last but not least, Amy Eldridge, our town clerk, just celebrated her fourth year at the Town Office. When you go in there, please recognize her service. It’s great to have her. Congratulations, Amy!
As the “unofficial town crier,” my goal will be to share some facts, some fiction, some fabrications and some fun to keep our residents informed about people, places and things. Much like the New York Times, we welcome “All the news that’s fit to print.” You can email me (camdenhillsrealty@gmail.com) with your local doings and insights. Your support along those lines would be welcomed.
