May 15 will be our next gathering at the BICA hall. Our hosts, Joanne and Wendy would like you to bring either a main or side dish or a dessert to share. Don’t forget your beverage of choice. As always, water and coffee will be provided. You may contact Evelyn (380-6977 or evelynshahan@gmail.com) with any questions. See you at 5:30.

Special guest for the evening will be Dan Gardner, EMS Chief and leader of Boothbay Region Ambulance Service who arrived in fall of 2022. What was once an all-volunteer service now has four full-time employees, 50+ part-time employees and a full time EMS chief. The days of a fleet of one ambulance and a hearse back-up have been replaced by four ambulances and highly trained personnel utilizing the latest high technology equipment to help area citizens and guests. A good chance to get any questions answered about what they do and the services offered.

It was great to be back at the BICA hall for the April potluck. Good attendance and good food made for a fun evening. Thanks to all who helped in the kitchen.  

Many thanks to the 30+ volunteers that stepped up on April 27 to help spiff up Barters Island. Not only did the outside of the hall get tidied up and the Barters Island roads picked up, but Hodgdon Island, Corey Lane and part of Barters Island Road were cleaned as well. Special thanks to Mel for all his dump runs, Bill and Susan for the water, Liza for helping at the hall and a really big thanks to Rob and Sandy for making sure we had enough pizza.  

Now that the neighborhood is cleaned it is time to think seriously about the Better Than a Yard Sale. Saturday, July 6 will be here before we know it. This sale is BICA’s only fundraiser. It is not too early to think about contributing and spring cleaning is always a good time to start setting aside your no longer needed amazing items to donate to the sale. As a reminder, clothing, large pieces of furniture or electronics are not accepted. We are in need of either indoor or outdoor plants and containers so if you are able to help in that area it would be appreciated. We will also be asking for baked goods so please keep that in mind. Bake and freeze some things now. The list of wants is not yet complete so keep an eye out for further updates.

The most popular lobster raffle is back run by Laura and Bucky. Tickets will be available at the potluck with the final drawing taking place at the August picnic. A dollar for one ticket and the smarter buy of six tickets for $5.   

BICA can always use help—if you would like to volunteer to help host a potluck this please get in touch with Evelyn to learn more about how it works.