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Wellness Matters: Road Safety by Sam McLean

With summer comes an influx of cyclists, pedestrians, and drivers to the narrow island roads. While this Brigadoon-like reawakening gives us a chance to reconnect to summer friends and family, it also causes a shift in the way we navigate the island. Year- rounders suddenly have to look twice before backing out of their driveway or making a turn. The roads feel clogged! For vacationers and summer residents, however, the roads feel deserted. Because that difference in perspective can sometimes result in dangerous conditions, here are a few road-safety tips and gentle reminders. Bike riders should wear properly fitted helmets (a must for those under 16) and bright clothing that can’t get stuck in the gears, and their bikes should be checked frequently to make sure they are in tip-top shape. Equally important is that the rules of the road still apply to a place with as few roads and people as Chebeague. In general, Maine law requires you to ride as far to the right as possible, ride with traffic, yield to pedestrians, and obey motor-vehicle traffic laws. In the context of our small town, it also means being considerate and thoughtful of those who share the road with you. Don’t forget they are your neighbors. ANNUAL ARTS AND CRAFTS FAIR SATURDAY, JULY 9TH 10 a.m. TO 1 p.m. CHEBEAGUE ISLAND HALL ANNUAL ARTS AND CRAFTS FAIR ANNUAL ARTS AND CRAFTS FAIR SATURDAY, JULY 9TH 10 a.m. TO 1 p.m. CHEBEAGUE ISLAND HALL JEWELRY, PAINTINGS,WOODWORKING, RUGS, AND MANY OTHER CRAFTS RAFFLE SATURDAY, JULY 9TH 10 a.m. TO 1 p.m. CHEBEAGUE ISLAND HALL JEWELRY, PAINTINGS,WOODWORKING, RUGS, AND MANY OTHER CRAFTS RAFFLE

There are several dangerous blind curves on the island, including one on John Small Road just above the boatyard, one toward the end of Cottage Road in front of the Glass’ house, and one at the curve on South Road just beyond the intersection with Schoolhouse Road. Especially in these places, riders, walkers, and drivers alike should all use particular caution. The first rule is to slow down and keep as far to the side of the road as you can. The second is to be aware that on the other side of that curve, there may be people walking their dogs or chatting with friends, a bevy of bicyclists, or two pickups filled with kids in the back. Whether you are a bicyclist, driver, or pedestrian, please remember that you are sharing the roads with everyone else. Be a thoughtful user. Don’t ride five abreast when a car is coming. Don’t exceed the 30 mph speed limit—start your trip to the boat a few minutes earlier. Don’t begin your family reunion at the top of the ramp on the Stone Wharf. Don’t take up three spaces in the parking lot or block another driver in. Don’t assume a driver can see you when you are zipping around on your bike. Don’t let your young child operate a golf cart on town roads. And, most important, don’t forget to enjoy your summer! Swee’pea Vintage Signs Order your custom chalk painted and framed wooden sign for your home or cottage. Interior or exterior signs available. Great gift for new home owners, weddings and as a baby gift!

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JEWELRY, PAINTINGS,WOODWORKING, RUGS, AND MANY OTHER CRAFTS RAFFLE

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JULY 2016 CHEBEAGUE ISLAND COUNCIL CALENDAR