Like many of my North Yarmouth neighbors, I was saddened by the loss of Wescustogo Hall. Unlike most of them, I had the unforgettable experience of watching it burn. I was wearing my firefighter helmet during the blaze, but I never remove the hat that says “chairman of the North Yarmouth Events Committee.” As we contained the fire and kept it from spreading beyond the hall, my mind was reeling as I considered the implications on our town events. Foremost in my mind was Fun Day, which was three weeks away at the time.

While we are called the “Events Committee,” I like to think that we are just using events to create the things that really matter to people: memories. Memories of laughter and conversations with friends. Memories of seeing little faces light up when Santa comes out on the stage. Memories of potluck suppers, music and fun. Many memories were created in that building for many people.

Fun Day will endure despite this setback and the show will go on. We have scheduled a great day of free entertainment on the bandstand for all who come to the Village Green on Saturday, Sept. 21. The festivities start with the 9 a.m. parade and there will be games for the kids, great food sold to benefit local nonprofits, and plenty of free parking. Be sure to come to the bean supper at 5 p.m. to support the first responders that have endured many sleepless nights like that fateful one.

Jason Raven
North Yarmouth

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