Alley, Bartlett, Fraser, Kingsbury tabbed McDonald's senior all stars

 Searsport, Belfast, Oceanside, Camden Hills represented among talented high school basketball players

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By Mark Haskell | Feb 25, 2021

Courtesy of: Maine McDonald's All-Star Basketball Games

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While there will be no 41st annual Maine McDonald’s High School Senior All-Star Basketball Games in 2021 due to COVID-19, that did not stop the Maine Association of Basketball Coaches (MABC) from giving a bevy of players statewide credit for efforts on the court and in the classroom.

In a virtual press conference, led by Peter Murray, MABC president, on Wednesday, Feb. 24, the McDonald’s all-star teams, all-academic teams, foul-shooting representatives and semifinalists for Mr. and Mrs. Maine Basketball — the latter being the state’s highest high school individual honor — were announced.

Among the honored senior players, four call the Midcoast home. They include Belfast’s Jason Bartlett, Camden Hills’ Jeremy Fraser, Oceanside’s Cam Kingsbury and Searsport’s Makenzie Alley.

Bartlett, Fraser and Kingsbury were selected to the Class AA/A/B North boys team, while Alley was selected to the Class C/D North girls team.

“This year there will be no games or in-person banquet,” said Murray. “However, on Friday, March 19, we will still gather virtually, as we are now, to once again congratulate these athletes at the conclusion of their season and announce award winners.”

Maine McDonald’s and Maine Association of Basketball Coaches announced while players, coaches and fans will not gather for the 41st annual Maine McDonald’s High School Senior All-Star Basketball Games for a traditional day of slam dunks and buzzer-beating shots, they are excited to honor more than 120 hardworking student-athletes on their stellar high school careers in a virtual format.

“While this event this year is different in many ways, we will still be raising money for a terrific organization, the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Maine,” said Murray.

Fraser, a 6-foot 2-inch forward, through nine games, has averaged 22 points, including a season-high of 33 against Lincoln Academy of Newcastle.

“A well-deserved award for a guy that never quits [and] comes to play every night,” said Camden Hills coach Jon Moro. “He has exceptional skills and a competitive nature that sets him in high-esteem with his peers and teammates.”

Kingsbury, a 5-10 guard, through 10 games, averaged 16.9 points, including a season-high of 29 against Camden Hills.

“It has been a great pleasure watching Cam grow into the outstanding player that he is,” said Oceanside coach Larry Reed. “He has improved in every year that he has been at Oceanside, and this year is no exception. He is a great player, teammate, and leader of our varsity basketball team. His contributions will be missed when he graduates. I know he will have continued success in everything that he does.”

Bartlett, a 5-8 guard, through 11 games, averaged 21.1 points, including a season-high of 30 on two occasions against Searsport and Bucksport.

“This is an incredible accomplishment from a very dedicated player,” said Belfast coach Marty Messer. “He’s proven that his hard work has paid off as he’s been one of the top players in Northern Class B the last few years. He’s always represented our team with class and we are very proud of him.”

Alley, through 10 games, has averaged 23 points, including notching her 1,000th career point on Friday, Feb. 19 at home game against Sumner of Sullivan. Her season-high was a 32-point effort against Camden Hills.

“[This is a] great accomplishment,” said Searsport coach Mel Grant. “This is really an award from the coaches and an award that shows she has earned their respect.”

Midcoast boys hoopsters among KVAC statistical leaders

 By Staff | Feb 22, 2021

AUGUSTA — Kennebec Valley Athletic Conference boys basketball coaches record the league's statistical leaders and among those from the Feb. 11 report are student-athletes from Camden Hills of Rockport, Oceanside of Rockland, Medomak Valley of Waldoboro, Belfast and Mount View of Thorndike.

The following are rankings for area squads and players for the 23-team league:

Team offense — Camden Hills, 69.8; Oceanside, 66.2; Belfast, 62.8; Mount View, 62.; and Medomak Valley, 56.

Points per game — Jeremy Fraser, CH, 24.3; Jason Bartlett, Bel, 21.8; Chris Kelley, Bel, 17.2; Trevor Brown, Med, 17.0; Cam Kingsbury Ocean, 15.0; Pat McKenney, Med, 13.0; Everett Allyn, Ocean, 12.7; and Bodhi Ames, Ocean, 12.7.

Rebounds per game — Jeremy Fraser, CH, 9.8; Bodhi Ames, Ocean, 8.8; Chris Kelley, Bel, 8.0; Ryan Clifford, CH, 6.6; and Trevor Brown, Med, 6.0.

Assists per game — Cam Kingsbury, Ocean, 6.3; and Ryan Clifford, CH, 3.6.

Steals per game — Brandon Starr, Med, 5.0; Jeremy Fraser, CH, 3.0; and Cam Kingsbury, Ocean, 2.3.

Blocked shots per game — Bodhi Ames, Ocean, 2.3.

Three-pointers — Cam Kingsbury, Ocean, 15; Chris Kelley, Bel, 14; and Jeremy Fraser, CH, 12.

Field-goal percentage — Jeremy Fraser, CH, 58.9; Bodhi Ames, Ocean, 58.6; Westen DeWaard, CH, 54.3; Jason Bartlett, Bel, 53.9; and Everett Allyn, Ocean, 52.9.

Three-point  percentage — Cam Kingsbury, Ocean, 42.9; Tanner Veilleux, Bel, 41.7; Chris Kelley, Bel, 40.0; Elliot Lucier, Ocean, 39.1; and Casey Messer, CH, 39.1.

Free-throw percentage — Jason Bartlett, Bel, 93.3; Jeremy Fraser, CH, 91.7; and Cam Kingsbury, Ocean, 72.

Courier Publications' sports staff can be reached by email at sports@villagesoup.com or by phone at 594-4401.

Lions' intensity too much for Mustangs in rivalry court clash

 Belfast avenges loss to Mustangs from three weeks earlier

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By Zack Miller | Feb 20, 2021

Photo by: Zack MillerScene from Belfast at Mount View on Feb. 20 in high school girls basketball in Thorndike.

THORNDIKE — A game between rival teams often brings about an increase in physical and mental effort, especially when said opponents meet for a second time in the season.

For Waldo County neighbors and longstanding high school athletic rivals Belfast and Mount View, the Lions looked to avenge a 32-26 home loss to the Mustangs on Feb. 1, while the hosts attempted to sweep the regular-season series on their home court on senior day.

Although the effort was there for both squads, Belfast's output was a tick or two higher than the Mustangs on Saturday, Feb. 20, as the Lions took control quickly and never relinquished the lead, en route to a 51-41 victory.

Watch video below. More photos from this game will appear later with this story.

Click here to watch livestream of game.

The Lions, now 5-6 on the campaign, led at the quarter breaks 11-5, 22-15 and 36-26. The Mustangs stand at 4-7.

Halle Tripp led the visitors with 20 points, while Lillie Mitchell added 12; Jaiden Philbrook and Emma Waldron, eight; Madison Farris, two; and Hailee Lindelof, one. Tripp sank four treys for the Lions, while Mitchell hit one.

Hannah Coolen led the Mustangs with 18 points, while Hannah Ferreira was close behind with 14; Kricket Thompson, four; Syd Vogel, three; and Lydia Bryant, two. Ferreira connected on three treys, while Coolen hit one for Mount View.

Belfast was 14-of-28 (50 percent) from the foul line, while Mount View was 5-of-15 (33 percent).

The Lions wasted no time jumping to an advantage, as the visitors surged on an 11-2 run in the first 5:38.

Philbrook got the scoring started with two baskets, as Coolen answered with a layup to put the hosts on the board.

From there it was seven straight points for Belfast, as Philbrook made two free throws, stole the ball, got fouled and knotted two more charity-stripe points, followed by a Mitchell layup and Waldron field goal.

Ferreira was the offensive spark for the Mustangs, as she netted seven straight points, including two treys and a free throw to bring the hosts within 11-9.

A Lindelof free throw got Belfast on the board in the second stanza before Coolen made a layup to cut the Lion advantage to 12-11.

Three-pointers started to fly for Belfast, though, as Tripp and Mitchell hit back-to-back treys to push the lead to seven — 18-11 — with 5:03 to play in the half.

Mount View did not quit, however, as Vogel hit a free throw and Coolen banked a three off the glass from the wing to bring the hosts within striking distance at 18-15 with 1:45 to play.

Tripp spotted up and countered Coolen's trey with one of her own to push the lead to six with just over a minute left.

Mitchell made the first Lion field goal of the second half — after a Belfast free throw — to push the visitors' advantage to nine, but Coolen hit a layup in traffic, then stole the inbounds pass and laid it in for another two Mustang points.

With the deficit at five points, Coolen drove the lane and dished to an open Bryant for an easy basket, as the Mustangs climbed within 24-21.

Belfast turned on the offensive jets, however, as the visitors went on a 12-5 run to end the third quarter and push its advantage to 10 points.

Mount View whittled its deficit to single-digits over the final eight minutes, but the Lions fended off the Mustangs to hold on for the victory.

Catching up with the vice principal - CASS In The News!

 Eighth in a series

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By Lucas Canning | Feb 18, 2021

Courtesy of: Nancy NickersonVice Principal Ashley Reynolds, left, talks with Capt. Albert Stevens School fourth grader Lucas Canning.

BELFAST — Mrs. Reynolds has been seen all over the school helping out this year. While most assistant principals spend their time in their offices, Mrs. Reynolds is helping out in classrooms. She comes into our room during lunch and it is fun to see her because many of my classmates had Mrs. Reynolds when she taught second grade. At the beginning of the year Mrs. Reynolds was in a foot cast; that must have been tough getting around. Good thing we have an elevator. I wanted to ask Mrs. Reynolds how things were going this year, so here are a few of my questions and answers with her.

Luke: Is it hard being a vice principal?

Mrs. Reynolds: Being a vice principal (otherwise known as an assistant principal) is the best job! I love helping students and teachers grow. It’s a challenging job, but that’s what makes it so fun. Every day is different.

Luke: Was it hard being a vice principal when we were hybrid? Can you explain what was hard about it?

Mrs. R.: Hybrid was more challenging, because it meant that I was able to check in with students in person less often. Some children are challenged by remote learning of any kind, and when we were hybrid, teachers were not as available to students who needed help because they were teaching their other cohort. I also worry about things like students not having access to enough food or a warm, safe place to be. Our school works hard to provide food to children when they are remote or hybrid, but I still worry!

Luke: Is social distancing hard for you, being a vice principal?

Mrs. R.: Being socially distant from students is very hard. I miss the hugging! I also miss being able to crouch down to a child’s level and get close and help them with their work or hear them read.

Luke: Are you used to wearing a mask now because you wear it every day? Do you have a favorite mask that you wear?

Mrs. R.: I am very used to wearing a mask now. When I get close (but not too close!) to students, I wear a face shield in addition to my mask. My favorite mask has crayons all over it, but all my masks have fun prints. One of the teacher’s family made mask clips with a 3D printer to help ensure proper fit and those clips are awesome!

Luke: Do you help people a little more this year? LIke go into classrooms and give teachers breaks?

Mrs. R.: I love to be in classrooms, so it’s a treat to get to help even more this year. I usually do 1 or 2 lunch duties per day, because all our classrooms eat as pods either outside or spaced out in their classrooms. Teachers need this time to have 30 minutes of quiet time during their day ... although I know that lots of teachers use their lunch times to plan, make copies, update Google Classroom, and lots of other things!

Luke: I know substitute teachers are probably not showing up as much because of the COVID restrictions, so how do you fill the need for teachers when they are out sick?

Mrs. R.: Finding substitute teachers during the pandemic has been a challenge. Luckily, we have been able to hire a building-based substitute with some of our COVID relief funds, and she helps out wherever she is needed most on any given day. We also have a few other substitute teachers that are very reliable and do a great job continuing instruction when classroom teachers have to be out. Mr. Widmer and I cover classrooms if there is a need, and so do others. At CASS we are a team. Everyone pitches in. I feel very fortunate to work with people who are always flexible!

Luke: How have your responsibilities changed this year?

Mrs. R.: Well, the things I need to do haven’t changed, but the way I need to do them has. I meet with folks virtually a great deal now, even when we are both in the same building. I work with families to help them get their children to school, in person or online, and that’s been more of a challenge this year. When I go into classrooms there is a different protocol: I always wash my hands before and sanitize when I leave. I sit or stand further away from students and teachers than I would like, so it’s sometimes harder to see (I should also wear my glasses).

I use technology in the Google Suite and use a document camera to help, too. I also manage 504 plans for students here. Something we are doing is creating individual remote learning plans for students that need accommodations to be able to access remote learning based on an impairment.

Luke: What changes have been done to the school building to make it safer to be in?

Mrs. R.: Each grade level has an access point for the building, making it possible for social distancing at our busiest times of the day. All classrooms operate in pods, including lunch and recess. We have an outdoor classroom and we purchased camp chairs-in-a-bag for each student and staff member, although it’s getting chilly outside! O2 Prime systems have been installed in this building, and all schools in RSU 71, so our air quality and circulation is safe.

Luke: What needs are not being met because of COVID? Are there many families that need more help this year? Explain.

Mrs. R.: Some families do need more help with things like food and warm clothes. We are thankful for donations that allow us to help these families. We also help families get things like hotspots so students have reliable internet access. I see that students want to socialize with friends from last year that aren’t in their pod and that’s hard, because the social structure of school has to be modified for physical safety.

Luke: What is the thing you miss most this year that we can’t do?

Mrs. R.: Hands down, I miss seeing smiles the most. But the laughter is still here!

Reprinted from The COVID Chronicle, a newspaper started by students in Nancy Nickerson's fourth grade class at Capt. Albert W. Stevens School about what it is like to attend school during the pandemic.

RSU71 Food Bid for 2021-2024

The RSU7I (Belfast Area) Food Service Program is putting out to bid its Prime Bid for 2021-2022, 2022-2023 and 2023-2024 school years. This is a 1 year bid with option to negotiate 2 (two), one-year extensions. 

There are have 8 schools within Belfast Area, BCOPE (Alternative ED), Belfast Area High School, Troy Howard Middle School, Captain Albert Stevens School, East Belfast School, Kermit Nickerson School, Gladys Weymouth Scool, and Ames Elementary School.

Bids will be accepted until Thursday May 6" 2021 at 1:00 pm at RSU71 Superintendents Office in Belfast. Click the links below for more information on the bidding process. 

Amended March 3, 2021 RSU71 Food Bid for 2021-2024

SP32-2019 Buy American and Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018_1e

In reality, Lion pool athletes virtually successful

 Belfast boys remain unbeaten aat 6-0, girls strong at 4-2

By Staff | Feb 15, 2021

Photo by: Zack MillerBelfast's Miles Cannon in the pool this season.

BELFAST — It has been a successful, albeit surreal and virtual, season for the Belfast swimmers, who have enjoyed tremendous pool success.

In dual-meets this winter, the Lion boys are 6-0 and Lion girls 4-2.

High school swim meets have been held virtually this year due to the pandemic. That means teams compete in their home pools during a time frame of a few days and later compare results/times to rank swimmers as if they competed at the same venue on the same day.

Belfast swims at its school pool.

In competition the week of Feb. 8-12, the Lions split with Morse of Bath. The Lion boys won 57-35 and Lions girls lost 52-42.

Click to watch livestream of girls meet.

Click to watch livestream of boys meet.

The week of Feb. 1-5, the Belfast boys beat Waterville-Winslow 95-28 and Gardiner-Hall-Dale 101-32. The Lion girls also defeated Waterville-Winslow 120-34 and Gardiner-Hall-Dale 124-39.

The individual and relay results for Belfast swimmers from the Feb. 8-12 meet were:

Girls 200 medley relay — 2, Belfast (Reagan Seekins, Jordan Kulbe, Finley Marriner, Gabby Hoffman), 2:17.52; and 3, Belfast (Mia Winslow, Chelsea Gaiero, Morgan Curtis, Sophia Birocco), 2:25.95.

Boys 200 MR — 2, Belfast (Will Robbins, Josiah Howard, Ronin Deschamps, Miles Cannon), 2:13.46.

Girls 200 freestyle — 2, Maeve Littlefield, 2:13.74; and 3, Gabby Hoffman, 2:24.37. Exhibition: Morgan Curtis, 2:41.80.

Boys 200 free — 2, Tanner Carson, 2:05.00; and 3, Joseph Lemon, 2:20.95.

Girls 200 individual medley — 1, Danielle Hicock, 2:37.00; and 4, Reagan Seekins, 2:48.15.

Boys 200 IM — 1, Lincoln Graf, 2:18.44; and 3, Sawyer Carson, 2:25.27.

Girls 50 free — 2, Jordan Kulbe, 29.55; and 3, Finley Marriner, 29.78. Exhs: Kalli Daley, 34.28; and Paige Rolerson, 37.53.

Boys 50 free — 1, Ronin Deschamps, 25.81; and 3, Josiah Howard, 28.54. Exh: Miles Cannon, 34.31.

Girls 100 butterfly — 2, Danielle Hicock, 1:12.74; and 4, Mia Winslow, 1:25.38. Exh: Sophia Birocco, 1:28.65.

Boys 100 fly — 1, Sawyer Carson, 1:00.63; and 2, Tanner Carson, 1:00.80.

Girls 100 free — 2, Sadie Wheeler, 1:03.33; and 4, Grace Littlefield, 1:11.05. Exhs: Chelsea Gaiero, 1:08.56; and Sydney Marriner, 1:18.91.

Boys 100 free — 2, Brigham Graf, 52.39; and 3, Ronin Deschamps, 56.97.

Girls 500 free — 2, Reagan Seekins, 6:25.61; and 3, Finley Marriner, 6:57.14. Exh: Liana Gobin, 7:14.45.

Boys 500 free — 1, Lincoln Graf, 5:27.76; and 2, Josiah Howard, 6:37.17.

Girls 200 free relay — 1, Belfast (Maeve Littlefield, Jordan Kulbe, Sadie Wheeler, Danielle Hicock), 1:53.44; and 3, Belfast (Sophia Birocco, Mia Winslow, Chelsea Gaiero, Morgan Curtis), 2:08.47. Exh: Belfast (Grace Littlefield, Sydney Marriner, Paige Rolerson, Kalli Daley), 2:24.03.

Boys 200 FR — 1, Belfast (Ronin Deschamps, Sawyer Carson, Lincoln Graf, Brigham Graf), 1:41.91; and 3, Belfast (Tanner Carson, Miles Cannon, Josiah Howard, Will Robbins), 1:58.24.

Girls 100 backstroke — 2, Maeve Littlefield, 1:13.59; and 3, Gabby Hoffman, 1:15.79.

Boys 100 back — 1, Joseph Lemon, 1:10.29; and 4, Miles Cannon, 1:36.26.

Girls 100 breaststroke — 3, Jordan Kulbe, 1:27.61; and 4, Sadie Wheeler, 1:28.10. Exhibition: Chelsea Gaiero, 1:36.66; and Sydney Marriner, 1:44.46.

Boys 100 breast — 1, Brigham Graf, 1:16.76; and 3, Will Robbins, 1:24.72.

Girls 400 FR — 2, Belfast (Danielle Hicock, Gabby Hoffman, Maeve Littlefield, Sadie Wheeler), 4:16.89; and 3, Belfast (Reagan Seekins, Finley Marriner, Morgan Curtis, Sophia Birocco), 4:38.36. Exhibition: Belfast (Grace Littlefield, Kalli Daley, Liana Gobin, Paige Rolerson), 5:18.23.

Boys 400 FR — 1, Belfast (Sawyer Carson, Tanner Carson, Lincoln Graf, Brigham Graf), 3:43.38.

The individual and relay results for Belfast swimmers from the Feb. 1-5 meet were:

Girls 200 MR — 1, Belfast (Reagan Seekins, Finley Marriner, Abby Kormann, Jordan Kulbe), 2:17.34; 3, Belfast (Mia Winslow, Chelsea Gaiero, Morgan Curtis, Sophia Birocco), 2:28.77; and 5, Belfast (Grace Littlefield, Sydney Marriner, Liana Gobin, Paige Rolerson), 2:43.86.

Boys 200 MR — 1, Belfast (Joseph Lemon, Ronin Deschamps, Tanner Carson, Josiah Howard), 2:06.66.

Girls 200 free — 2, Danielle Hicock, 2:17.70; 3, Gabby Hoffman, 2:19.46; and 4, Reagan Seekins, 2:25.62.

Boys 200 free — 1, Sawyer Carson, 2:14.92; and 2, Josiah Howard, 2:28.54.

Girls 200 IM — 2, Abby Kormann, 2:46.17; and 3, Mia Winslow, 2:55.37.

Boys 200 IM — 1, Lincoln Graf, 2:17.40; and 2, Tanner Carson, 2:26.22.

Girls 50 free — 1, Maeve Littlefield, 26.59; 2, Sadie Wheeler, 29.15; and 3, Jordan Kulbe, 29.65. Exh: Paige Rolerson, 37.33.

Boys 50 free — 1, Brigham Graf, 24.09; and 4, Miles Cannon, 32.77.

Girls 100 fly — 2, Finley Marriner, 1:23.58; and 3, Liana Gobin, 1:27.29.

Boys 100 fly — 1, Lincoln Graf, 1:02.59; and 2, Sawyer Carson, 1:03.00.

Girls 100 free — 1, Abby Kormann, 1:05.59; 2, Gabby Hoffman, 1:06.36; and 3, Grace Littlefield, 1:12.87. Exh: Paige Rolerson, 1:27.51.

Boys 100 free — 2, Tanner Carson, 1:00.55; and 5, Miles Cannon, 1:21.70.

Girls 500 free — 1, Danielle Hicock, 5:59.41; 2, Reagan Seekins, 6:29.38; and 4, Morgan Curtis, 7:09.26.

Boys 500 free — 1, Joseph Lemon, 6:24.68; and 2, Josiah Howard, 6:53.95.

Girls 200 FR — 1, Belfast (Maeve Littlefield, Sadie Wheeler, Gabby Hoffman, Danielle Hicock), 1:53.71; 2, Belfast (Sophia Birocco, Finley Marriner, Chelsea Gaiero, Morgan Curtis), 2:09.54; and 3, Belfast (Grace Littlefield, Sydney Marriner, Paige Rolerson, Liana Gobin), 2:24.95.

Boys 200 FR — 1, Belfast (Joseph Lemon, Josiah Howard, Ronin Deschamps, Sawyer Carson), 1:49.95; and 2, Belfast (Miles Cannon, Tanner Carson, Lincoln Graf, Brigham Graf), 1:50.36.

Girls 100 back — 1, Finley Marriner, 1:16.59; 2, Sadie Wheeler, 1:19.28; and 4, Mia Winslow, 1:23.16.

Boys 100 back — 2, Ronin Deschamps, 1:12.32.

Girls 100 breast — 3, Maeve Littlefield, 1:24.92; 5, Jordan Kulbe, 1:29.05; and 6, Chelsea Gaiero, 1:35.28. Exh: Sydney Marriner, 1:44.79.

Boys 100 breast — 2, Brigham Graf, 1:17.63; and 3, Joseph Lemon, 1:22.93.

Girls 400 FR — 1, Belfast (Danielle Hicock, Abby Kormann, Sadie Wheeler, Maeve Littlefield), 4:18.53; 2, Belfast (Gabby Hoffman, Reagan Seekins, Sophia Birocco, Jordan Kulbe), 4:35.95; and 5, Belfast (Grace Littlefield, Liana Gobin, Mia Winslow, Sydney Marriner), 5:11.40.

Boys 400 FR — 1, Belfast (Sawyer Carson, Ronin Deschamps, Lincoln Graf, Brigham Graf), 3:53.81.

Courier Publications' sports staff can be reached by email at sports@villagesoup.com or by phone at 594-4401.

Maine Climate Youth Meeting

 MAINE CLIMATE YOUTH 
 Maine students respond to the climate crisis by organizing for change in their communities and beyond
Presenters:
● Ania Wright, College of the Atlantic, Maine Youth for Climate Justice and student member of Governor Mills’ Climate Council
● Anna Siegel, student in 9th grade at Waynfleet School in Portland
● Jonah Lovejoy, student in 11th grade at Belfast Area High School
When: Monday February 22, 2021, 6:00 - 7:30 PM
To join us, request the Zoom link, email belfastmaineccc@gmail.com
Cosponsored by: The City of Belfast Climate Crisis Committee and
the Belfast City Free Library.

Senior-laden Belfast too much for rebuilding Searsport

 

Bartlett pours in 30 points to key visitors, Wright 17 for host Vikings

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By Ken Waltz | Feb 15, 2021

Photo by: Ken WaltzBelfast's Jason Bartlett, left, looks to escape the defense of Searsport's Chase Brassbridge, middle, and Tim Smith on Feb. 13 in high school boys basketball. The visiting Lions defeated the Vikings 68-43.

SEARSPORT — Although they are neighbors separated by seven miles off Rt. 1, in 2020-21, the Belfast and Searsport boys basketball teams are, literally and figuratively, worlds apart. They occupy a different place in time.

This winter, the Lions, a Class B squad, include 11 seniors. The Vikings, a Class C team, have a roster that includes two seniors, two juniors, four sophomores and three freshmen.

Belfast is built to win now. The Vikings are rebuilding, shooting to improve for the future. Post pandemic.

The Waldo County squads met on Saturday afternoon, Feb. 13 for the second time this season and, while the contest was competitive to start, the more experienced and powerful Lions slowly, but surely, roared to the victory.

When the final horn had sounded, Belfast had nailed down a 68-43 win.

Watch video and see nearly 60 photos below.

Click to watch livestream of game.

The Lions also beat the Vikings 85-53 earlier in the season.

Thus far in this pandemic-altered winter campaign, Belfast is 4-5 and Searsport 1-6 playing regional schedules.

On Saturday, Belfast trailed 10-9 after one quarter, but led 28-18 at halftime and 51-29 after three stanzas.

Ultimately, the Lions had too much of everything, especially Jason Bartlett, who made shots all over the court, including on hard drives to the hoop. Bartlett finished with 30 points, which included five in the first quarter, four in the second, 11 in the third and 10 in the fourth. Bartlett nailed two 3-pointers and both foul shots.

He had help from Chris Kelley with 18 points, while Tanner Veilleux added six; Chase Sanders, four; James Ritter, three; and Steve Friel, K.J. Payson and Zeb Leppanen, two; and Cole Martin, one.

The visitors made 6-of-9 free throws (67 percent) and Kelley chipped in two trifectas.

For SDHS, Josh Wright tallied 17 points, including connecting on four 3-pointers, while Chase Brassbridge added 12. Also for the hosts, Cody Reynolds, Tim Smith and Gabe Kneeland added four points and Elias Higgins two.

The Vikings made 3-of-8 foul shots (38 percent) and Brassbridge also netted two fourth-quarter treys.

Viking Gage Ellis was involved in a hard, multi-player fall to the court at one point, but shook off what appeared an arm injury, showed his toughness, and saw additional playing time during the contest.

Key plays down stretch lead Lions past Vikings

 Waldo County neighbors embroiled in competitive Saturday afternoon court clash to final buzzer

By Ken Waltz | Feb 15, 2021

Photo by: Ken WaltzBelfast's Hailee Lindelof, left, and Searsport's Makenzie Alley vie for the ball on Feb. 13 in high school girls basketball. The host Lions outlasted the Vikings 42-36.

BELFAST — Perhaps one positive from a year-long pandemic that has provided plenty of uncertainty and frustration for high schools and their student-athletes is the fact regional play has rekindled a few forgotten county rivalries.

One in particular that has been fun to watch is Searsport and Belfast, neighbors separated by about seven miles off Rt. 1, and by class distinction — the Vikings are in Class C and Lions Class B.

However, when the girls basketball teams have met on the court this season it has proven competitive and plenty of fun.

That again was the case on Saturday afternoon, Feb. 13 as the host Lions slowly pulled away in the fourth quarter and held off the Vikings 42-36.

Watch video and see nearly 50 photos below.

Click to watch livestream of game.

It was the second game of the pandemic-altered and -shortened 2020-21 campaign between the Waldo County neighbors as earlier the Lions beat the host Vikings 52-38.

At this point, the Lions are 4-5 and Vikings 3-4 on the campaign.

Additionally, the 1,000-point watch continues for SDHS senior Makenzie Alley, who entered Saturday’s game 101 points shy of that coveted mark. She tallied 20 points to again key the visitors and sits at 917 for her stellar four-year career — 81 points away from the magical number.

On Saturday, Searsport led 14-11 and 24-22 at the first two quarter breaks, before Belfast grabbed a 31-27 advantage after three.

The Lions were led by Lillie Mitchell with 14 points, including two 3-pointers, while Hailee Lindelof added eight points; Halle Tripp, seven; Madison Farris, six; Jaiden Philbrook, five; and Emma Waldron, two.

The hosts netted 6-of-10 foul shots (60 percent). Tripp and Philbrook also connected on trifectas. Additionally, Philbrook and Mitchell hauled in seven rebounds and Lindelof four. Waldron finished with three rebounds, three assists, three steals and two blocked shots.

For the Vikings, Alley tallied 19 points, including eight in the first quarter, three in the middle stanzas and five in the fourth. She also netted 6-of-10 free throws and a 3-pointer. Kyla Perkins also scored 10 points, including making two treys, Abby Astbury five as she made 5-of-6 foul shots and Sarah Gent two. Searsport netted 11-of-16 foul shots (69 percent).

The contest was tied 27-27 at the midway point of the third quarter as both teams played hard-nosed, aggressive defense and looked to create transition hoops. A jumper by Lindelof and two free throws from Philbrook gave Belfast a 31-27 advantage at the break.

The Lions continued their offensive spurt as Mitchell connected on a sideline trey with 7:31 left in the fourth stanza to give the hosts a 34-27 advantage.

But the Vikings held tight. Hoops by Gent and Alley, along with two foul shots from Alley, halted the Belfast push to close the Vikings' deficit to 34-33. Farris and Lindelof got Belfast back on track with baskets to give the hosts a 38-33 edge. Then Mitchell converted a fast-break hoop with 4:08 left to make it 40-33 and forced a Viking timeout.

Belfast increased its defensive intensity at that point and Searsport’s comeback bid was thwarted.

'Love letters to Maine' spell out fifth graders' devotion to Pine Tree State

 Feb 12, 2021

Courtesy of: Kathleen GassFifth graders at Capt. Albert Stevens School, from left, front: Claralily Goguen, Kristina Humphry; rear: Miles Flemming, Lucy Engstrom, Gabriella Gardner, Silas Ociepka. Not pictured is Luciana Birocco. All are in Extended Learning Program teacher Kathleen Gass's literature and social studies study group.

BELFAST — At the request of Kathleen Gass, who teaches fourth and fifth graders in the Regional School Unit 71 Extended Learning Program, we are publishing "Love Letters to Maine" written by some of Gass's fifth graders at Capt. Albert Stevens School.

The students are in the Extended Learning Program's literature and social studies study group. "In this independent project," Gass wrote to The Republican Journal, "students were asked to think about what they appreciate most about their home state and to write a love letter to Maine."

We present these love letters in honor of Valentine's Day.

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Dear Maine,

What I love about you is…

Your low population, giving less traffic and the less crowded public areas. I also love your nature and beauty and trails. My favorite trail is the Belfast Rail Trail i n Waldo County. This is a 2.3-mile trail starting at an old railroad and moves along the Penobscot Bay leading into town. I love nature, my favorite animal that lives here are goats.

I also love the open-mindedness of the people who live in you. There are a lot of opinions and tolerance. Probably, my favorite thing about you is your local attributes and stores that provide fresh and yummy produce.

Two of my best friends own farms!

— Silas Ociepka

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Dear Maine,

I love the way your beaches look in the summer, how the water chases the shoreline, and how the air smells, salty and fresh. It feels magical, like a fairy tale world in reality. I like how, no matter what season it is, whatever the weather, you can always feel otherworldly.

It can be a cloudy day, but the smell of the rain makes me feel curious. It can be a hot, muggy day, but the blue sky makes memories flood back to me. You can feel modern and rustic, mysterious and beautiful, hot and cold, a place of change, diversity and curiosity.

You have beaches and forests. Your forests echo with the sound of sweet bird songs and your beaches look like they came straight out of "One Morning in Maine" (they did!).

I wrote this letter to you because you can stand in one forest and feel gloomy, but stand in another and burst with happiness. You have many forests and beaches, but none are the same. Your environment nurtures the people and animals who live here, so all I want to say is thank you, for all the gifts you’ve given me.

— Kristina B. Humphry

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Dear Maine,

You are a splendid place to live because you have so many things to love. You offer four seasons, land, trees, fish, other animals, water, sunrises and islands are only a fraction of what you deliver to your population. If I could study anything, I would choose art, (sculpting with clay mostly) history, geography and animals. They all tie together in a way, especially when it comes to you. Your sights that inspire art. You have a history of people, species, civilization and so much more. You offer animals. You have so much, and are so much. Someday everything I do will be for you and the things you offer and give to everyone.

The thing I like most about you is that you are so wild, a tangle of trees, food webs and water everywhere. On your shining coast in summer the sand warms and your harbors are refreshing. Your lakes and ponds are abundant with fish, and there are so many species. One of my favorites is the shimmery white perch. They are so pretty, and they are native to you. They are small and live longer than many fish someone would have in a tropical fish tank.

Another thing that is nice about you is that in the town that I live in, Belfast, the people protest peacefully (usually), and do not cause violence when lacking something they want. The happy days you give are beautiful and full of purpose.

You are the most wonderful place I’ve ever been, even though I have been on some pretty great vacations. But, I like you more than Florida because you have snow. I like you more than Martha’s Vineyard because you are large, but small when I think about all of the people and their local businesses, and that makes you big again, because your people make big differences. And when your pine trees smell so nice, and the gladness of the rippling water echoes in my head, there are no better places in the world.

— Lucy B. Engstrom

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Dear Maine,

What I like about you is the "Land for Sale" sign that I see near the car (not foot) bridge for the Passie (Passagassawakeag). What I like about you is the elephant on top of the Colonial Theatre, and how, during these tough times, you managed to be funny, and give it a mask. Dear Maine, what I like about you is the fact that, no matter what, you will always be my home.

— Claralily Goguen

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Dear Maine,

I love living here because of the low population. Take Florida, for example. In 2019 they had 21 million people. But Maine only had 1 million. I love that I can just go walking on the beach with my family and my dog playing in the water alone. That makes me feel so free. The thing I love most is all of your beautiful nature and animals.

For example, you are known as the Pine Tree State for a reason. You have the record for most pine trees in one state. Your trails are exquisite. They are full of fun and adventure. Nothing can top that. You are home to a variety of animals, from the biggest whitetail deer to the littlest eastern gray squirrel, and everything in between.

But my favorite is the loon. I love the way they call each other. It sends shivers down my spine in a way that makes me wonder what it is saying and who it is to. Family, friends? And the way they dive deep into the water to get crawfish and fresh or saltwater fish. All that is possible because you do not have buildings and cities all over the place.

You are like a wide open plain full of endless possibilities. If I was hunting for a job I could find one here. Even though you are small you are mighty. Even though you are quiet you have a voice.

— Luciana Birocco

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Dear Maine,

Here is what I like about you, I like your beaches, your lakes and your ocean. I like jumping off the rock at Fernald’s Neck. I like the fact that most of the people that live in you have environmental awareness. I like that you have forests, trees and wildlife. I like that you contain friends and family. I like your snow and seasons.

I like that you have very few big box stores, good schools and small towns. I like the fact that your temperatures are not too hot, even in the summer, and that they aren't too cold even in the winter. I like that you aren't too wet and you aren't too dry. I like that your populations aren’t too big, but they aren’t too small. I like that you aren’t enormous, but you aren’t small. That's what I like about you, Maine.

— Miles Flemming

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Dear Maine,

I love your pine trees. They smell like a tight hug. In the spring, they’re as green as a frog. In the fall they’re orange with a hint of brown, like wood, And in the winter they’re white as paper; sometimes fluffy white, sometimes smooth white and sometimes bumpy white. Your trees can look so many different ways.

Your trees are so beloved that your state nickname is The Pine Tree State! There’s even a pine tree on our flag. Your flag. You’re on the top of the United States because you are number one! If you ever feel like you are just a tiny little state, remember that you are very, very, very important. Without you, there would be an empty space where you are. Imagine the shape of the United States without Maine! You are the finishing touch.

— Gabriella Gardner

Husson announces students’ fall academic achievements

 Feb 08, 2021

BANGOR — Husson University has announced students who made the president’s list, the dean’s list and the honors list for their accomplishments during the fall semester.

President's list

The following students earned grade point averages of 3.80 to 4.0 during the period to be named to the president's list:

Alyssa Lynn Limeburner of Belfast, a junior majoring in psychology.

Roy Alton Smith of Belfast, a junior majoring in hospitality and tourism management.

Sierra A. Fonger of Brooks, a junior enrolled in Husson's Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science/Doctor of Physical Therapy program.

Lauren Stubbs of Bucksport, majoring in nursing.

MacKenzie Smith of Bucksport, pursuing a BS degree in accounting and an MBA.

Christine Bracher of Bucksport, majoring in business administration.

Joshua Geagan of Bucksport, majoring in business administration with a concentration in management.

Meaghan Goodine of Bucksport, majoring in criminal justice/psychology.

Austin Mason of Bucksport, majoring in elementary education.

Madison Cyr of Bucksport, majoring in elementary education.

Kaitlin Hawes, majoring in criminal justice with a concentration in national and corporate security.

Joshua R. Buker of Burnham, a senior majoring in business administration.

Benjamin Frederick Powell of Frankfort, a junior majoring in English.

Maxwell R. Webster of Frankfort, a sophomore majoring in business administration with a concentration in marketing management.

Miranda Laine Dunton of Lincolnville, a first-year student majoring in biology.

Parker C. LaFrance of Montville, a senior majoring in criminal justice with a concentration in national/corporate security who is also pursuing an Undergraduate Certificate in counter-terrorism and security, and a Master of Science degree in criminal justice administration.

Kyle Robert Artkop of Searsmont, a sophomore enrolled in Husson's Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science/Doctor of Physical Therapy program.

Jenna P. Keach of Searsport, a first-year student enrolled in Husson's Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice/Psychology and Master of Science in Criminal Justice Administration program.

Olivia Jane West of Searsport, a first-year student majoring in mass communications with a concentration in journalism.

Jenna Grace Brassbridge of Swanville, a first-year student majoring in secondary education with a concentration in English.

Anna Elizabeth Coleman of Swanville, a first-year student majoring in English.

Teresa Dalpe of Unity, a senior majoring in nursing.

Patrick M. Bubar of Winterport, a senior majoring in accounting.

Ryan M. Kenneson of Winterport, a junior majoring in integrated technology with a concentration in computer information systems.

Brandon T. Smith of Winterport, a senior enrolled in Husson's Bachelor of Science in Accounting/Master of Business Administration program.

Troy C. Spencer of Winterport, a first-year student majoring in criminal justice.

Dean's list

The following students have been named to dean's list for earning grade point averages of 3.60 to 3.79 during fall semester:

Tyler J. Bartlett of Belfast, a junior majoring in business administration.

Daniel Charles Groening of Belfast, a first-year student majoring in audio engineering with a concentration in music production.

Kayla Marie Payson of Belfast, a first-year student who is majoring in nursing.

Kyra P. Branch of Brooks, a senior enrolled in Husson's Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice/Master of Science in Criminal Justice Administration program.

Kerrigan Smith of Bucksport, who is majoring in criminal justice/psychology.

Victoria Rich of Bucksport, who is majoring in health sciences.

Emma S. Reynolds of Frankfort, a junior majoring in business administration.

Kiana S. Oxton of Knox, a senior enrolled in Husson's Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice/Psychology with a Graduate Certificate in Counter-Terrorism and Security/Master of Science in Criminal Justice Administration program.

Austin L. Labbe of Knox, a senior majoring in physical education.

Carter Patterson of Northport, a junior enrolled in Husson's Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a concentration in financial management.

Brandon G. Loveland of Searsport, a sophomore enrolled in Husson's Bachelor of Science in Business Administration/Master of Business Administration program.

Dakota James Coleman of Swanville, a senior enrolled in Husson's Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice with a concentration in National/Corporate Security and a Master of Science in Criminal Justice Administration program.

Jessica T. Riley of Troy, a junior majoring in Exercise Science.

Craig J. Stauffer of Troy, a junior enrolled in Husson's Bachelor of Science in Communications Technology with a concentration in Video Production and a Certificate in Photography program.

Wyatt D. Lord of Winterport, a sophomore majoring in criminal justice.

Bryanna E. Romesburg of Winterport, a first-year nursing major.

Honors list

The following students made the honors list with GPAs of 3.4 to 3.59 during fall semester:

David Cameron Blais of Belfast, a senior enrolled in Husson's Bachelor of Science in Hospitality and Tourism Management/Master of Business Administration with a concentration in Hospitality and Tourism Management and a Paralegal Certificate program.

Breanna M. Brown of Frankfort, a sophomore who is majoring in nursing.

Emily Hunt of Bucksport, who is majoring in nursing,

Brody Gaslin of Bucksport, undeclared.

Devin G. Small of Islesboro, a junior enrolled in Husson's Bachelor of Science in Communications Technology with a concentration in Video Production and a Certificate in Photography program.

Kinley D. Friend of Searsport, a junior majoring in psychology.

Cassidy L. Jackson of Searsport, a sophomore who enrolled in Husson's Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a concentration in Entrepreneurship and Small Business Management program.

Mikaela L. Alley of Stockton Springs, a sophomore enrolled in Husson's Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science/Doctor of Physical Therapy program.

Halle A. Reynolds of Unity, a junior whose major is undeclared.

Jessica J. Stewart of Unity, a junior who is majoring in nursing.

Bailey Raighan Donovan of Winterport, a sophomore majoring in business administration.

Elizabeth R. Kervin of Winterport, a first-year student who is majoring in biology with a concentration in biochemistry.