Webber and Threemile ponds restoration work update

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Nate Gray, left, from Maine Department of Marine Resources and Bill Bennett, USFWS, prepare to collect flow data from Webber Pond.
(contributed photo)

by Landis Hudson, Maine Rivers

Project partners who worked on and completed the China Lake Alewife Restoration Initiative are turning their attention to Webber Pond, Threemile Pond and Seaward Mills Stream. The seven-year China Lake project involved fully removing three dams and installing fishways at three other dams. In 2022 more than 800,000 adult alewives were counted moving into the lake, producing vast numbers of juveniles that were able to safely migrate out of the lake.

The earlier success of alewife restoration work at Webber Pond helped lay the groundwork for the China Lake effort. In 2009, after years of effort and planning by Maine Department of Marine Resources and the Webber Pond Association, a technical Alaskan steep-pass fishway was installed to allow fish into Webber Pond. The restoration effort has been so successful that the Webber Pond fishway is now undersized for the number of returning fish, and some fish are delayed below the dam. Many of the fish entering Webber Pond then must pass through to Threemile Pond via Seaward Mills Stream, but often have trouble along the way.

Webber Pond alewife harvest will be expanded by the restoration work underway. (contributed photo)

The new work will involve tackling the fish passage barrier on Seaward Mills Stream created by the Whitehouse Road culvert, to allow fish to spawn in Threemile Pond. Improperly sized or placed culverts often act as dams and limit the movement of aquatic creatures, as is the case with the old Whitehouse Road culvert. Successful completion should allow the combined Webber Pond/Threemile Pond alewife run to nearly double in size from 400,000 to 750,000 annually. White sucker and brook trout populations will benefit greatly from improved passage conditions as well. Part­ners are working to replace the badly deteriorated culvert at little or no cost to the town.

This new phase of work brings together Maine Depart­ment of Marine Resources, Maine Rivers, USFWS, the Webber Pond Association and the Three­mile Pond Asso­­ciation. Maine Depart­ment of Trans­portation also supports the effort, and in­cluded up­grades to the Whitehouse Road culvert in a request for federal funding this winter. A decision on that funding is pending.

Threemile Pond Asso­ciation supports the work and with hopes that it will improve the health of the pond. Tom Whittaker has been president of the Threemile Pond Association for the past five years but has been doing alewife counts along Seaward Mills Stream for the past decade, witnessing the low numbers of alewives able to make their way into Threemile Pond because of stream flows impacted by the Whitehouse Road culvert. John Reuthe, president of the Webber Pond Association, has had a long interest in alewife restoration and is pleased the project will improve the gates of the Webber Pond dam to improve the ease and safety of management.

A native keystone species, alewife are known to strengthen the food webs of the freshwater and marine ecosystems where they are found. As migratory species, alewife and their close cousins Blueback herring, move from the ocean to lakes and ponds to reproduce before migrating back to the ocean. Along the way they are eaten by a great number of creatures, including eagles, osprey, turtles, bear, foxes, mink, brook trout and bass. They also provide a source of revenue to the town, in the form of an annual commercial alewife harvest. For more information, email or call Matt Streeter, mstreeter212@gmail.com or 207-337-2611.

Joyce Benner celebrates 100th birthday with Young at Heart seniors

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Group photo with Joyce Benner

On April 19, 2023, there was a celebrity in the house at The Young at Heart monthly meeting. One of the members, Joyce (Creamer) Benner turned 100 years old. She was born on March 4, 1923, and grew up in Waldoboro.

When asked what she could say about her life, Joyce answered and said that her childhood was good. I had a good mother and father and they were always there for me whenever I needed them. I have always loved my six children and I have had a good life. She also has too many grand, great- and great-great-grandchildren to count.

Joyce and her husband, Alfred, lived on the Greely Road, in Windsor, where they raised hereford cattle and sheep and at one time they even had a pet monkey. She worked in nursing homes and she was also very well known for picking crab meat. When asked if she had any hobbies, she said with a chuckle, “picking crab meat.” She also enjoyed hunting and playing Beano.

Joyce had this advice for young people today. Very seriously she said, “Mind your own business.”

God Bless this lovely Lady!

Young at Heart Senior Citizens meet once a month, usually the third Wed­nesday at the Coopers Mills Lions Club, at noon. The next meeting will be May 17 and after the fellowship lunch, they will be playing Beano. FMI call 445-4930.

Joyce Benner on the occasion of her 100th birthday on March 4, 1923, with the Young at Heart Seniors Citizens group. (contributed photo)

AYCC celebrated opening day for baseball and softball programs

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Waterville Cal Ripken baseball team members Mason Sheets, 8, and Carter Pantermoller, 8, make their way through the Colby College baseball player tunnel during opening ceremonies on Wednesday, April 26. (photo by Missy Brown/Central Maine Photography staff)

by Mark Huard

Waterville Interim Police Chief William Bonney was chosen to throw the first pitch to officially open up the season. (photo by Missy Brown/Central Maine Photography staff)

The Alfond Youth & Community Center (AYCC), serving the Boys & Girls Clubs and YMCA of Greater Waterville, held a very special opening day for its baseball and softball program on Wednesday, April 26, at the Colby College Baseball Field. More than 200 kids, ages five to 12 participated, along with the Colby College baseball and Thomas College women’s softball teams. The first baseball pitch was thrown out by Waterville Interim Police Chief William Bonney while the first softball pitch was thrown out by Winnie Merrill (former softball player and former New York Yankees manager’s wife). AYCC CEO Ken Walsh paid tribute to “Mr. Baseball” Fran Purnell for his 50 years of volunteer service to the game. Waterville’s Purnell Wrigley Field – a 2/3 MLB licensed replica of Chicago’s Wrigley Field – is named for Purnell.

Waterville Alfond Youth Community Center CEO Ken Walsh said, “We are so pleased that Colby baseball under head coach Jesse Woods was willing to host our opening of the beautiful diamond for our kids. The kids were thrilled to meet the Colby baseball players and the coaches. I was please to see Chief Bill Bonney throw a perfect strike to start the season. It was sad that Fran Purnell could not be there for the first in 50 years due to his illness. If it wasn’t for him, Purnell Wrigley field would not be in use for so many of our boys and girls to play. Fran always said it’s better for these kids to be on the field rather than [on] the streets.”

Waterville Interim Police Chief William Bonney added, “Opening day for baseball is such an exciting time because it marks the coming of summer and it get kids out on the field engaging in one of our most time honored treasures, baseball. I enjoy our community partnerships and I was honored to be asked by the AYCC to throw out the first pitch.”

The Alfond Youth & Community Center (AYCC) is the 501(c)3 nonprofit organization responsible for operating the only merged Boys and Girls Club and YMCA in the United States. Based in Waterville, Maine, the AYCC serves more than 8,000 members annually — including more than 5,000 youth members – through a comprehensive range of youth and community-focused programs, including childcare and afterschool programs, wellness, fitness, aquatics and summer camps. Learn more or donate at www.clubaycc.org.

Adding a deck to your home

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Adding a deck to your home not only enhances its aesthetic appeal but also provides an inviting space for outdoor activities and gatherings. In Maine, with its harsh climate and stunning natural beauty, building a deck requires thoughtful planning and consideration. In this article, we will discuss the factors to consider when adding a new deck, the costs associated with such a project, the options for DIY or hiring a contractor, and how to build a deck that withstands Maine’s weather conditions.

Factors to consider when adding a new deck:

  • Purpose: Determine the primary purpose of your deck, whether it’s for entertaining, relaxation, or enjoying the outdoors. This will help you decide on the size, layout, and design of the deck.
  • Location: Choose a location that balances sun exposure, shade, and privacy while considering the prevailing winds, views, and proximity to your home’s entrance.
  • Materials: Select decking materials based on durability, maintenance requirements, and compatibility with Maine’s climate. Pressure-treated wood, composite materials, and tropical hardwoods are popular choices.
  • Building codes and permits: Familiarize yourself with local building codes and obtain any necessary permits before starting the project. Codes may dictate the size, height, and railing requirements for your deck.
  • Budget: Establish a budget to guide your decisions on materials, design, and whether to hire a contractor or tackle the project yourself.

The cost of building a deck varies depending on factors such as materials, design, and labor. On average, homeowners can expect to pay between $15 and $35 per square foot for a basic pressure-treated wood deck. Composite and hardwood materials generally cost more but require less maintenance over time. The overall cost will also depend on the complexity of the design and any additional features such as built-in seating, railings, or lighting.

DIY vs. hiring a contractor: If you have carpentry skills and experience with home improvement projects, building a deck yourself can save on labor costs. However, constructing a deck requires precision and adherence to building codes, which may prove challenging for some homeowners. Hiring a contractor ensures professional results and compliance with local regulations. Before selecting a contractor, obtain multiple quotes, check references, and verify licenses and insurance coverage.

Keep these considerations in mind when building a deck to last in Maine’s harsh climate:

  • Choose the right materials: Opt for materials that resist moisture, decay, and insect damage, such as pressure-treated wood, composite decking, or tropical hardwoods like ipe or mahogany.
  • Proper drainage and ventilation: Ensure adequate spacing between deck boards and a slight slope away from your home to promote water drainage. Adequate ventilation beneath the deck is essential to prevent moisture buildup and potential damage.
  • Protective finishes: Apply a high-quality water-repellent finish or stain to wooden decks to protect against moisture, UV rays, and temperature fluctuations. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning and resealing, will prolong the life of your deck.
  • Snow and ice management: Maine’s snowy winters can be hard on decks. Promptly remove snow and ice to prevent moisture damage, and avoid using metal shovels or ice-melting products containing salt, which can harm the deck’s surface.

Additional considerations:

  • Safety features: Install railings, especially for elevated decks, to ensure safety. Choose materials and designs that complement your deck and meet local building codes.
  • Accessibility: Consider adding ramps or wider doorways to accommodate wheelchairs or strollers, ensuring that your deck is accessible to everyone.
  • Lighting: Incorporate outdoor lighting into your deck design for safety and ambiance. Solar-powered or low-voltage LED lights are energy-efficient options.

Adding a deck to your Maine home can enhance its value and provide a beautiful outdoor living space for relaxation and entertainment. By carefully considering factors such as purpose, location, materials, and budget, you can plan a deck that suits your needs and complements your home’s style. When choosing between DIY and hiring a contractor, weigh your experience, available time, and desire for professional results.

Building a deck that lasts in Maine’s harsh climate requires selecting the right materials, ensuring proper drainage and ventilation, applying protective finishes, and managing snow and ice. Don’t forget to pay attention to safety features, accessibility, and lighting to create a welcoming and functional outdoor space.

Investing time and effort in planning, constructing, and maintaining a deck will reward you with a beautiful, durable addition to your home, allowing you to enjoy the natural beauty of Maine’s outdoors for years to come.

Embrace energy efficiency with heat pumps

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Maine residents are increasingly choosing heat pumps to improve their home’s energy efficiency and reduce heating and cooling costs. In this article, we’ll discuss what heat pumps are, their benefits, and the costs associated with upgrading a house with a new heat pump.

What is a heat pump, and how does it differ from traditional systems? Heat pumps provide both heating and cooling by transferring heat between the indoors and outdoors. Unlike traditional systems that generate heat or cool air directly, heat pumps move heat, making them more energy-efficient. They extract heat from the outdoor air during winter and expel indoor heat outdoors during summer.

Benefits of installing heat pumps in Maine:

  • Cost savings: Heat pumps use less energy than traditional systems, reducing electricity and energy costs.
  • Energy efficiency: Heat pumps reduce your home’s carbon footprint and often qualify for federal tax credits and local utility rebates.
  • Versatility: Heat pumps provide both heating and cooling, eliminating the need for separate systems.

Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of using heat pumps over electric, wood heat, or traditional air conditioning:

Advantages:

  • Lower operating costs
  • Improved energy efficiency and reduced greenhouse gas emissions
  • Less maintenance compared to wood-burning systems
  • Enhanced indoor air quality
  • Quiet operation

Disadvantages:

  • Higher upfront costs
  • Limited effectiveness in extreme cold temperatures
  • May require additional insulation or air sealing upgrades

The cost of upgrading with a new heat pump varies depending on the size, type, and installation factors, typically ranging between $4,000 and $7,000 for a ductless mini-split system, including installation. Obtain multiple quotes from local contractors and consider system size, efficiency ratings, and warranties when making a decision.

Heat pumps offer numerous benefits, including cost savings, energy efficiency, and versatility. While there are some drawbacks, such as higher upfront costs and potential limitations in extreme cold, proper planning and installation can help homeowners maximize the advantages of heat pump systems. With the growing focus on sustainability and reducing our carbon footprint, heat pumps represent a smart, environmentally friendly choice for Maine residents.

When choosing a new heat pump for your home, consider factors such as home size, insulation levels, and local climate when choosing a heat pump. A professional contractor can help you select the appropriate system and ensure optimal performance.

Statewide programs like Efficiency Maine offer rebates for qualifying heat pump systems, while federal tax credits and local utility incentives may also be available. Research and take advantage of these programs to offset the upfront costs.

Hire a reputable contractor with experience in heat pump installations, and ask for references and reviews from past clients. A well-installed heat pump system maximizes energy savings and ensures the longevity of your investment.

In conclusion, heat pumps present a compelling option for Maine homeowners looking to improve their home’s energy efficiency and reduce heating and cooling costs. By understanding the benefits and limitations of heat pumps, selecting the right system, and taking advantage of financial incentives, you can make a smart, environmentally friendly choice for year-round home comfort.

Seven mistakes to avoid when decluttering your home

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by Christina Giaquinto

The spring cleaning season is always such a great time to refresh your home and everyday lifestyle. Are you already planning to deep clean your carpets and rugs, clean all of your home’s windows, and wipe down all counters and cabinets? These are all fantastic steps to take, but have you thought about taking the time to declutter each room? You may not know it, but if you have a cluttered home, you are unknowingly hurting your mental wellbeing.

It’s true — clutter takes up physical space, uses your mental energy, and can amplify stress and anxiety. In my experience as the Professional Organizer and Brand Ambassador of Modular Closets (a DIY customizable closet system that organizes any space in your home), I have found that decluttering and organizing your home is one surefire way to live healthier and happier. That said, if you want to declutter your home this spring cleaning season, avoid these blunders:

Mistake #1: Thinking You Need to Throw Everything Away

Oftentimes, when one thinks of decluttering, they falsely assume that any and all clutter should just be thrown away. Their reasoning is that if articles of clothing and other clutter have been strewn around the home for a long time, the items are obviously not important and it would be easiest to just toss them out. However, don’t make this mistake, as it can lead to unnecessary waste in landfills. You may also have friends and family who would love the items you no longer want, or you can donate them to charitable causes that need them.

Mistake #2: Keeping an Item You Don’t Need

On that same note, don’t make the mistake of holding onto an article of clothing or other product because you think you might use it in the future. If the item has been sitting in the back of your closet or laying forgotten underneath your bed for months (or years!), then I recommend donating it, giving it away to a friend, or trying to sell it. You get the benefit of less clutter, and the item will go to someone who truly wants to use it. It’s a win-win for you both! Don’t let objects take over you — remember that you always control the items.

Mistake #3: Starting the Decluttering Process Without Planning Piles

I get it — when you finally decide to declutter and organize your home, it can be tempting to just go all-in and start tossing all the items strewn about into one box to sort through later. However, you will streamline the whole process if you plan out your plies first — you can designate a pile of items you will keep, a pile to donate, a pile to sell, and a pile to throw away. Then, you can sort all of the items as you go — then you can easily box up the piles to donate to Goodwill or another organization, place all the items in the “Throw Away” pile into a trash bag, etc.

Mistake #4: Decluttering With Everything Still in the Space

Many people make the mistake of decluttering their drawers, closets, and entire rooms with all of the items still in the space. Don’t commit this blunder, as you can really optimize the decluttering process by first emptying out the closet / room / space before sorting the items. You will be much more cognizant of the items you decide to place back in the space and consider more if you really want to hold onto certain items you haven’t used in a long time. Also, you won’t overlook items that may be hidden under others.

Mistake #5: Keeping Clutter for a Garage Sale That Isn’t on the Calendar

Garage sales are a fun and effective way to rid your home of items you no longer need, make a little profit, and give someone else the chance to enjoy your old items at a very low price — as the saying goes, one man’s trash is another man’s treasure! However, if you want to hold a garage sale to sell your old items, it is absolutely key to schedule the day and time you plan to hold it. Otherwise, you may end up having to keep pushing the garage sale out as other obligations come up, all the while still holding onto a bunch of items cluttering up your space.

Mistake #6: Decluttering Without a Goal and Intention for Your Space

Having a goal you want to achieve for your space will further optimize the decluttering process. Do you finally want to sort through that jumbled junk drawer in your kitchen? Are you ready to organize all of the clothes in your master bedroom’s closet? Do you have a ton of makeup and other beauty products you really want to declutter and organize? Set your goal and declutter accordingly. This will prevent you from being distracted by any clutter in other spaces — as you achieve one goal, you can then set another goal for another space. One step at a time!

Mistake #7: Decluttering Without a Snack On Hand

Trust me, decluttering and organizing any space can be tiring! This is especially true if you are moving heavy boxes and equipment around. So keep your energy and momentum up by having a tasty snack nearby at all times. This can also make the process more fun and enjoyable!

To Wrap It All Up

Are you ready to declutter and organize your home this spring cleaning season? Good for you! You can make the decluttering process much more efficient by avoiding some common mistakes others make, like thinking you need to throw everything away, decluttering while everything is still in the space, and keeping clutter for a garage sale that isn’t yet on the calendar. Also, do not be so hard on yourself, because this process is a lot! The fact that you are working on your space to make it better is truly such an accomplishment. Good luck!

Christina Giaquinto is the Professional Organizer and Brand Ambassador of Modular Closets (DIY customizable closet units that organize any space in your home).

Easy home lawn care for Mainers: Tips and tricks for a beautiful lawn

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Hey there fellow Mainers! Keeping a beautiful lawn in our great state can be a bit of a challenge, given our cold winters and unpredictable weather. But fear not, we’re here to help you make lawn care a breeze. In this article, we’ll discuss easy home lawn care tips, including how to repair damage from snow plows, fix bare patches, and revive grass killed by cold.

First things first, it’s essential to choose the right type of grass for our Maine climate. Cool-season grasses, like Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, and fine fescue, are better suited for our cold winters and can handle temperature fluctuations. These varieties will give you a lush, green lawn once the snow melts.

Snow plows can sometimes wreak havoc on your lawn, leaving deep ruts and torn-up grass in their wake. To fix this, start by removing any dead grass and debris, then fill in the ruts with a mixture of topsoil and compost. Level the soil with a rake, and reseed the area with a grass mix suited for Maine. Water the area regularly, and you should see new growth in a few weeks.

Bare patches can be an eyesore, but they’re relatively easy to fix. Begin by raking the area to remove any dead grass and loosen the soil. Mix some compost or peat moss into the soil to improve drainage, then spread grass seed over the area. Lightly cover the seeds with soil and water regularly until new growth appears.

Cold temperatures can cause grass to turn brown and appear dead, but don’t give up on it just yet! Rake away any dead grass, and give the area a good watering. As temperatures warm, the grass should start to green up again. If it doesn’t, reseed the area following the steps outlined above.

To keep your lawn looking its best, follow a regular maintenance schedule. Mow regularly, but avoid cutting the grass too short, as this can cause stress and encourage weeds. Aerate your lawn in the spring and fall to improve air circulation and nutrient uptake, and fertilize with a slow-release fertilizer formulated for cool-season grasses.

To minimize your environmental impact, consider using organic fertilizers and pest control methods. Collect and use rainwater for irrigation, and leave grass clippings on the lawn to decompose and return nutrients to the soil. Planting native plants and flowers around your lawn can also help support local wildlife and pollinators.

Taking care of your lawn in Maine doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By following these easy home lawn care tips, you’ll be on your way to having a beautiful, healthy lawn that’s the envy of the neighborhood. So grab your gardening gloves, and let’s get to work!

Browntail Moth Update from the Maine Forest Service

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Browntail moth caterpillars can be identified by the two distinctive orange dots at the tail end and white tufts along the sides.

This week, we observed browntail caterpillar emergence at all of our monitoring sites. It should be noted that although emergence was seen at every site, not every web has had caterpillar emergence. This is likely because of the recent rainy weather we’ve been experiencing across the state. Rainy spring weather is a great start for an epizootic outbreak of the pathogens (fungal and viral) that attack browntail caterpillars. Although it is still a bit early for the fungus and virus to have a huge impact on the caterpillars, we welcome the coming rain. Rain is also very beneficial to the health of the host trees since the state has had relatively dry spring weather the past few years. These rain events will help invigorate host trees and allow them to tolerate some of the defoliation they will experience.

At most sites, we observed that many host plants (oaks, apple, cherry, crabapple, elm, birch, poplar, shadbush, and rugosa rose) had newly emerged leaves, which make nutritious meals for the young browntail caterpillars. Even though they are small, their hairs readily break off and can cause an irritating rash to areas of exposed skin. Please plan ahead to avoid exposure to hairs and treating symptoms related to exposure.

Maine Wolf Coalition captures video and photo documentation of another apparent Maine wolf

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In the winter/spring 2023, trail cameras placed by The Maine Wolf Coalition, Inc., captured photos and video of an apparent Maine wolf. (photo courtesy of John M. Glowa Sr.)

Submitted by John M. Glowa Sr.

A fourth apparent wolf has been documented in Maine. Prior to this current animal, wolves were killed in 1993 and 1996. In 2019, The Maine Wolf Coalition, Inc. (MWC) documented a live Eastern/Algonquin wolf through collection of its scat. The 2019 animal was the first DNA documented live wolf in the state.

Since 2019, MWC has been conducting ongoing wolf research in Maine consisting of the placement of trail cameras and the collection of canid scat. To date, they have collected nearly 200 different scats. Most of those are awaiting analysis at Michigan Technological University.

Trail camera photos and video collected in Spring of this year show an apparent male wolf as it chases an animal, walks up towards the camera and displays a raised leg urination.

Here are links to MWC’s Youtube and Facebook pages which contain videos of the canid.

Maine Wolf Coalition Youtube page
The Maine Wolf Coalition Facebook page

Wolves are legally protected in Maine and the rest of the northeast by the federal Endangered Species Act. Unfortunately, neither the state nor federal governments are attempting to document the status of wolves in the northeast. The canid mistakenly called a “coyote” has lived in the region for nearly a century. These animals are actually coyote/wolf hybrids or wolves and their killing by hunters and trappers is largely unregulated. This has led to the killing of multiple wolves in the northeast states, the most recent of which occurred in New York in 2021.

It is virtually impossible to differentiate wolves from “coyotes” when hunting, especially at night. They plan to return to the area later in the Spring to try to collect scat samples and have DNA analyses conducted which may help to determine if the animal is part of a breeding wolf population.

Wild canids in the northeast desperately need some measure of protection to protect wolves that are attempting to recolonize the region from Canada and the Great Lakes states. The state and federal governments must stop ignoring the law and start administering it.

The Maine Wolf Coalition, Inc. is a non-profit 501c3 corporation. Our mission is wolf recovery in Maine through research, education and protection.

KVYSO senior spotlight on Breckon Davidson

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Breckon Davidson, left, with his grandfather, John Shields. (contributed photo)

Submitted by Jen Tuminaro

The Kennebec Valley Youth Symphony Orchestra (KVYSO), is proud to feature Breckon Davidson, a senior at Erskine Academy, in South China, in our Senior Spotlight article. He is a talented, diligent musician whose participation in KVYSO has added to the quality and level of ensemble community.

Breckon began his musical journey with piano lessons, from age six until he was nine. At that point, he picked up the cello after seeing Pineland Suzuki School (an organization of strings teachers in central Maine) perform at Granite Hill Estates.

“Working with Pineland in the beginning of my cello playing was amazing, and they had such a refined program for beginners. They had so many group classes, activities, and just made learning cello something that I had a ton of fun to do,” explained Breckon, eventually joining the Allegra Orchestra (Pineland’s beginner ensemble). “My favorite piece that we played with them was the theme to Jurassic Park.”

After auditioning for Kennebec Valley Youth Orchestra (KVYSO’s intermediate orchestra), he was not able to play with them that year in person due to Covid restrictions, but it “only fueled my excitement further. In the fall of 2020, we were able to play in person for the first time in what felt like forever, and it felt exhilarating to be part of an orchestra again.” After a year with KVYO, Breckon began playing with Kennebec Valley Youth Symphony (KVYSO’s advanced orchestra). “That was a huge deal, because that would be the first time in my life that I would be playing a full, unaltered symphony in concert. This was the real deal, and I took it very seriously.”

Around this time, Breckon joined Capital Strings (Pineland’s advanced ensemble) and started taking lessons with Jon Moody. “In Capital Strings, we got to play incredible arrangements of so many kinds of music, whether they be film scores, contemporary classical, folk music, what have you, and it was a joy. Eventually, I started doing the Bach cello suites, and have loved working on them ever since.”

In addition to being a member of KVYSO and Pineland, Breckon is also a part of the Jazz Band at Erskine, where he recently picked up bass. “At first it was like a whole new language, playing bass, but eventually I got the hang of it, and recently played in a concert at Erskine where I played bass in the Jazz Band and a jazz quartet, and played cello for a solo and for my composition class group.”

Music has been part of Breckon’s life for a long time. “I absolutely adore music, and it is an ever-present part of my life. There’s rarely a time that I’m not listening to music, the majority of it being classical. I’ve loved classical music for so long, and I find its rich textures and harmonies to be unlike any other type of music that I know of.”

As for future plans, Breckon plans on going to college as a biology major to become a psychiatrist. “As much as I love music, I also have a great passion for science, and find psychology to be the most fascinating one to me, so I’ll make it my career.” We wish Breckon well as he pursues his goals after his time with us at KVYO is done.

We invite you to support Breckon and the Kennebec Valley Youth Orchestras for the Spring Concert on Friday, May 5, at 6:30 p.m., at the South Parish Congregation Church, in Augusta. Daniel Keller will be conducting our KVYO, with Jinwook Park conducting our KVYSO. The concert will feature the music of Mendelssohn, Debussy, Vivaldi, and more! In addition to joining them on May 5, please consider following them on Facebook and Instagram (Kennebec Valley Youth Symphony Orchestras). If you would like to donate to our program, please visit their website at https://www.kvyso.org/. They truly appreciate your support of our program!