The next generation of Westporters will be taking a big step into their future this week: Wiscasset’s High School Graduation is this Thursday evening. It’s a huge accomplishment, with plenty of hard work, busy schedules and good friendships along the way. Congratulations and best wishes as you start on your next goals and adventures.

Are you in college or trade school, or will you be attending this fall? There are two local scholarship programs both with July 15 deadlines. Neither application is very complicated, so here’s a little info on each.

The Westport Community Association is accepting applications for an academic stipend of at least $200 from town residents enrolled in a college or community college, graduate or trade school, or training program.

You must be in good standing and completed at least one semester. Applications are at the Town Office, or call Emily Adler at 207-882-9804 to have one mailed. The Bessie D. Brooks Trust offers scholarships to help with undergraduate education.

If you’re a high school grad from a public or private school or home-schooled in Lincoln or Sagadahoc Counties, give Laura Comer a call at First Advisors in Damariscotta, 207-563-1900, ext. 5066 for an application.

Our Volunteer Fire Department will be holding a great big yard sale in August, at the old Ames store on Route 1. Plenty of time to sort through our spare rooms, attics, basements, and garages to find items to donate (but no clothes or any broken items).

All items will be picked up by the department at our homes, making it easy for us (and organized for the department). Please call Bob Mooney at 207-460-0367 or Chris Fabian at 207-337-1848.

Time will zip by fast in this lovely weather. Since the town has a very good voter turnout record, let’s keep that going; absentee ballots and applications are available at the town office.

Sure, you could be gardening, shopping, building a porch, or fixing your boat, but hold on … the final public hearing on RSU 12’s budget is this Saturday at 9 a.m. at the Whitefield Elementary School, Route 126. A last chance for input and votes on various school cost centers before the referendum vote.  For background and budget details, visit the RSU 12 website: www.svrsu.org.

OK, let’s say you’re more ready to exercise this Saturday morning, maybe to some cool music. Perfect choice at the town hall with Zumba instructor Debbie Speed. It’s a free introductory class beginning at 9:15 a.m., open to anyone, so grab your sneakers and some water. There will be more Zumba classes this summer at the town hall, though this is only class without a fee.

Glad to report that the Community Dinner at the Primary School was successful. Through the generosity of parents, friends, neighbors and local businesses, Partners In Education raised enough money to support all first, second and third graders to attend the swim program at the Community Center.

This is so much fun for the kids and so important in helping them be safe in the water. Thank you to all who contributed.

Off to fix the weedwacker … or not at mewbarnes2@yahoo.com or 207-882-6055.