Patti Mikkelsen/For Lakes Region Weekly
Local author on a mission to stamp out hunger
Misty Coolidge knows first hand about the challenges her single mom had putting food on the table for her and her sisters during their upbringing in Norridgewock. She has devoted a major portion of her life volunteering at food distribution centers, chiefly Good Shepherd Food Bank.
To give her mission a higher profile, she enters pageants to bring more attention to the cause. Her current title is Mrs. USA Earth. This position provides a world-wide platform to spread the word about how others can contribute to the effort of ending hunger.
She also co-authored a book on the subject. A portion of the back cover summarizes its purpose by stating, “ ‘We All Stir the Pot to end hunger!’ explores the interconnectivity of all people, centered around our common need for sustenance.”
Coolidge doesn’t take any royalties from the sale of the book; however, a portion of the proceeds supports the organization Feeding America.
She visits local schools to give author talks and share her journey with students and teachers. GNG Memorial School did a competition between classrooms on which class could raise the most money for the Good Shepherd Food Bank. They created a QR code and made some handmade posters about hunger.
Coolidge is a mom, wife, and entrepreneur with a passion for volunteering and activism. She resides in New Gloucester, with her husband and their three children.
Village Coffeehouse returns in 2024
The Delta Knights Band will take the stage on Saturday, Jan. 6, to kick off the Village Coffeehouse 2024 series. Since 1996, this Portland-based band has specialized in the best of R&B, blues, classic rock, and swing.
Organizers predict the audience will be challenged to sit still while this band plays, so they will be attempting to alter the usual layout to make room for dancing. This rockin’ good time is set for 7-9 p.m. at the First Congregational Church Vestry, 19 Gloucester Hill Road.
Admission is by a suggested donation of $10 per person at the door. For more information, contact the church office at 926-3260.
January Community Cafe
GNG Recreation is pleased to host lunch at their Jan. 10 Community Cafe, and the public is invited to come. The cost is $10 for anyone and $8 for those who qualify (Maine resident age 50+).
Per usual, lunch will be served at about 11:30 a.m. at the First Congregational Church Vestry, 19 Gloucester Hill Road. The menu can be found on the GNG Recreation page on Facebook, plus an email will be sent to repeat attendees.
RSVP by Friday, Jan. 5, so organizers can forward a head count to the caterer as soon as possible. Leave a message for Sarah Rodrigues at 926-4126 ext. 231 or email her at recdirector@newgloucester.com.
