To be honest, the first time many of us heard who Russell Libby was and what he did, we read it in his obituary.

Thanksgiving leftovers are squared away, Santa is popping up everywhere, and the Christmas TV specials and promotional efforts are in full swing.

I learned today that Bath Savings Institute will not be hosting their (previously) annual holiday wreath auction for the benefit of Big Brother’s Big Sisters. What a travesty.

I feel I have to respond to the angry, derogatory, and unnecessary letter from Barbara Buermann Johnson in last week’s LCN entitled, “Continued myopia.”

I went to the Lincoln Theater production of “Harvey” this past weekend and loved it. The humor, the timing, the acting, the set was superb. I urge every one to go!

This week, an out-of-state real estate buyer submitted an application to demolish a historic 1730s cape that is a key part of the Damariscotta Mills landscape, and more importantly, the village’s amazing history. The application submittal means that the clock is now ticking, and they’re getting the wrecking ball ready to raze the lovely old home formerly owned and loved by the late Connie Curley, who passed away last week.

As we go to press we await word on whether two local races for the state legislature will go to a recount.

In August 1995, I visited my dad, Jim Lester (then age 72), and his wife who were living on Westport Island. We took a road (and boat) trip and one day hiked on Monhegan Island.

On Nov. 6 a majority of Mainers, including 52 percent of voters in Lincoln County, voted to allow the state of Maine to issue marriage licenses to same sex couples.

I am writing to commend Sherwood Olin and Kim Fletcher on last week’s article, “Dog shooting sparks Facebook furor.” Their reporting made the details of a complete situation understandable, helped to educate readers, and challenged us all the examine our own reactions.

The organizers of the local hurricane relief project returned home Sunday night, after a successful and rewarding weekend delivering supplies in New York.

A reminder to everyone enjoying their Thanksgiving dinner that when you say a prayer of thanks for all your blessings, please add a prayer for all our young men and women who cannot be there with you. Yes, I know we all feel that loss and in some cases, more than others.

The holiday season is one defined in different ways by different people. People of different upbringings, social status, and religions each see the various holidays from Thanksgiving to New Year’s Day in ways similar to many, but unique to each.

Following an informational meeting on Nov. 15, the Lincoln County Budget Advisory Committee’s work is complete and the county commissioners have until Dec. 17 to approve the budget for fiscal year 2013.