I admit that I tend to overreact when I see that something has befallen an animal that I’m pet-sitting, anything from hairballs to heat stroke. There are a few reasons for this. No. 1: I love all animals and I don’t want to see any animal in any sort of pain. No. 2: it’s not my pet and someone is paying their hard-earned money for me to care for their pet. I don’t want to feel that they’re not getting their money’s worth. And No. 3: I have worked at several veterinary clinics and I have seen firsthand what can happen if what starts out as a manageable medical situation gets out of control.

This week I want to take a moment to highlight yet another upcoming Community Read program. On Thursday, July 19 at 11 a.m., the proof will literally be in the pudding as both amateur and professional chefs compete in their own categories for fabulous prizes, fame, and bragging rights at our Community Cooking Contest. The theme? Italian food, in honor of our Community Read book, “Blood, Bones & Butter,” by Gabrielle Hamilton.

The nation’s economy depends on it, but shipping by truck comes with a heavy price, in terms of both environmental damage and damage to the highway infrastructure.

May was a month of birthdays at Hodgdon Green, the assisted-living home in Damariscotta. Celebrating were residents Patty Hagar, Doug Halm, and Eleanor Mitchell. Blessings on them for a year ahead filled with contentment and joy in being.

Got a bee in my backside this week, folks, as I had not only one near miss, but two, and in the same location. Well, if you guessed in the crosswalk at Red’s Eats, you would be dead on. Now I know, the law says pedestrians have the right-of-way, and that is true, but nowhere does it say that one should at any time not exercise extreme caution crossing any road.

June? Can you believe it? Schools will be closing soon for summer vacation. Summer camps are open. Vacationland is starting to live up to its billing. At the station we will be seeing more traffic, trash, and tourists. Welcome to Maine.