A group of local hikers (including this writer) gathered recently to join a trek to the top of Hedgehog Mountain. Initiated by Taunja Jandreau as a way to get together with peers and enjoy some time outdoors, an open invitation was offered to the locals for a picnic and climb. The turnout was good (eight adults and seven children) and the weather was even better. It was a perfect day for such a hike. The high temperature for the day was in the mid 60s, the sun was shining, and the company was outstanding. To energize ourselves before the hike, we ate our lunches and snacks at the rest area located near the trailhead. At about 1 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 20, we began our trek. The children, with their boundless energy and enthusiasm, started the climb on a run and didn’t stop until they arrived at the top. Those of us without the benefit of such young legs and lungs, hiked at our individual paces. Hiking experience is not required for this hike, but some level of physical fitness is. Though the trail is a fairly short hike, it can get quite steep in some areas and does basically rise at an incline all the way. Though I run on a normal basis, and consider myself fairly fit, I did realize about halfway up that I would benefit from the use of a Stairmaster!
Jack Routhier, age 8, was the first hiker to the top with the other children all arriving in quick succession behind him. Reaching the top before the adults, the children took much enjoyment taunting and labeling us as “slow pokes” of the climbing team. Childhood antics aside, we all gained a sense of personal achievement whatever our reasons. Taking the time to soak in the sun and the view, you can see the lay of the land for miles. Reminds you just how vast our woods are and how blessed we are to call northern Maine home. The fall colors were just beginning to spread over the landscape. With the wet start to summer and dry end, they are the perfect combination for great foliage. I plan to hike this trail again in another week to 10 days. By then, the colors should be spectacular.
Besides getting some much needed movement, the time together allowed me to become better acquainted with some of my neighbors and I met some really nice people I would not have met otherwise. Mission accomplished!
Ashland Boy Scouts Attend Fall Camporee
Ashland Boy Scout Troop 179 recently attended the “Return to Brownsea” Fall Camporee at the Nordic Heritage Center hosted by the Presque Isle Boy Scout Troop 171. The camporee kicked off the 100th anniversary of the Boy Scouts of America celebrations. “Return to Brownsea” pays homage to the original site of the first Boy Scout encampment, which was Brownsea Island off the coast of England.
Scout officials who judged events also posed as important figures from the Boy Scout organization’s history. Some of the events the boys had fun working on included fire by friction, orienteering and pitching a “voyager” style tent. One of the highlights of the day was the “Brownsea Banquet” where all troops brought food to share that they prepared and cooked themselves over a campfire.
Boy Scout Camporees are a great opportunity for troop members to meet other Scouts from around the country and beyond. The boys also get a chance to work as a team, show off their Scouting skills, and advance in the Scout ranks. They also have a great time!
Happy 100th anniversary to the Boys Scouts of America.
Ongoing Events
The Ashland Area Senior Citizens group meets every Thursday at noon at the Ashland Recreational Center. Any senior citizens wishing to participate in the potluck lunches and meetings are always welcome to attend.
The Portage Lake Over 50’s Club lunch is held on the last Tuesday of every month at 11:30 a.m. at the Town Hall. All individuals 50 and over are invited to attend and can bring a potluck dish to share. For more information, contact Wilza Robertson at 435-6211 or Grace Nason at 435-6373.
The Red Hat Loonies of Portage Lake meet the second Thursday of every month at Dean’s Motor Lodge. Membership dues are $2. Come and have a great meal and a great time, too! For more information, contact Rachel Stevens at 435-635.
Monday Night Exercise will be held at the Portage Lake Town Hall at 6:30 p.m. every Monday. Participants can workout at their own pace/instruction. Tapes and equipment are available for your use. Contact the town hall with inquires.
There will be a Portage Lake Centennial Meeting Tuesday, Oct. 20 at 6:30 p.m. in the Town Hall. All residents are encouraged to attend! Plans for the town Christmas party are being established, so please help out!
Susan Feeney-Hopkins is the correspondent for Ashland, Portage Lake, Oxbow, Masardis, Garfield, Nashville Plantation and surrounding townships. She can be reached at 435-8232 or feenhop@aol.com.
