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Friday, February 21, 2025 Volume 21 • Issue No. 8
4th Annual Rett’s Roost “Behold the Cold” Polar Plunge WELLS Rett’s Roost, a local nonprofit dedicated to supporting families affected by childhood cancer and child loss, is excited to host its 4th annual “Behold the Cold” Polar Plunge on Sunday, March 2 at 11 a.m., with a rain date of Sunday, March 9. This year, participants will take the plunge at a new location: Wells Harbor. People of all ages are invited to brave the chilly waters of the Webhannet River, symbolizing solidarity with children under-
going cancer treatment and their families. Rett’s Roost is committed to providing hope and healing for these families through their signature, holistic retreats and meaningful gatherings, which foster connections between peers and support families with therapeutic, integrative healing. Deana Cavan, Co-founder and Executive Director of Rett’s Roost, ref lects on the annual Behold the Cold event: “Our first polar plunge during the pandemic was a leap of faith. The overwhelming support we’ve re-
ceived since then highlights the strong community bonds we’ve nurtured and has allowed us to improve the quality of our family programming and increase the numbers of people we serve.” Founded in April of 2015 by Deana and Jim Cavan in honor of their son Everett, Rett’s Roost retreats and gatherings offer families therapeutic activities to ease their grief and anxiety, such as massage, reiki, art therapy, restorative yoga, mindful martial arts, See RETT on page 11 . . .
“Let’s Talk History: Lafayette, Maine, and America” at OBHS SOUTH BERWICK The Old Ber wick Historical Society (OBHS) and its “Let’s Talk History” lecture series are thrilled to present “Lafayette, Maine, and America,” a dynamic presentation by historian Brad Fletcher, which will explore the excitement of the Marquis de Lafayette’s 1824-1825 tour of America and his visit to Maine. From South Berwick to Portland, Lafayette’s visit was not just a trip down memory lane – it was a fullblown national event. Marie-Joseph Paul Yves Roch Gilbert du Motier, Marquis de Lafayette, was a French aristocrat and military officer who played a key role in both the American Revolutionary War and the French Revolution. Lafayette is best known for his
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involvement in the American Revolution, where he served as a major general in the Continental Army. He was a strong advocate for the American cause and became a close friend of George Washington. His contributions were vital in securing French support for the American revolutionaries. In 1824-1825, Lafayette made a grand tour of the United States to celebrate the country’s 50th anniversary and his role in its founding. During this tour, he visited many states, including Maine, where he was warmly re-
STATEWIDE This winter season has seen some very cold temperatures, prompting many to layer up with their heaviest coats, gloves, and blankets. The season also calls for the public to bolster their immune systems by staying current on various vaccines, including those for the flu, COVID-19, RSV, shingles, and more. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the flu shot as the best protection against inf luenza, the prevalence of which is currently very high in Maine, according to data from United Healthcare. Additionally, the spread of other infectious diseases tends to increase during the winter months, putting the public at greater risk of illness, pain, and even hospitalization.
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public to an evening of history and spectacle as they revisit Lafayette’s whirlwind tour of America, including his memorable stop in South Berwick, and the enduring legacy he left behind. The event takes place on Wednesday, February 26, from 7 to 8 p.m. at The First Parish Federated Church, located at 150 Main Street in South Berwick. Admission is free. For more information, visit www.oldberwick.org. Photo of Marquis de Lafayette courtesy of the White House Historical Association.
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ceived. His visit was part of a national celebration of his contributions to American independence. Lafayette sparked an outpouring of patriotic fervor upon his return to the United States. When his ship arrived in New York Harbor, an estimated 50,000 to 60,000 people turned out to welcome him. Fletcher will explore how this “Nation’s Guest” was more than just a celebrated figure from the past; he was a living bridge to 1776, rallying a young republic still defining its future. The OBHS welcomes the
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To help prevent that and to stay as healthy as possible during the winter months, here are three immunization strategies to consider: A flu shot is strongly recommended this year. While the flu is most serious for older adults and those with certain chronic conditions, it can affect people of all ages, and cases have increased across the United States this season. Younger chil-
dren, particularly those younger than two, are at higher risk of developing serious f lu-related complications, according to the CDC. Flu vaccination is recommended for everyone six months and older, except for individuals with severe allergies or those who are immuno-compromised. Data shows the flu vaccine can reduce the risk of illness by up to 60%. Additionally, f lu vaccinations help protect the gen-
eral public, especially when the vaccine is well matched to the viruses circulating each season. The CDC also recommends getting a COVID-19 shot again this season. Like the flu, the coronavirus changes annually, requiring the vaccine to be reformulated to better target current strains. While nearly 50% of the U.S. population received a flu vaccine in 2023, only 29% got a COVID-19 shot. A near-record low number of Americans report concern about contracting COVID-19, despite the virus being deadlier than the flu and carrying the added risk of longterm symptoms. Both vaccines can be administered at the same time, along with other recommended vaccinations. See FLU on page 18 . . .
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