Sanford "Sandy" Phippen grew up in Hancock, graduated from Sumner Memorial High School in East Sullivan, received his BA in English from the University of Maine and earned a MA in English Education from Syracuse University. He is the author of "The Police Know Everything," "People trying to be Good," Cheap Gossip," "Kitchen Boy," and "The Messiah in the Memorial Gym." plus two histories of Hancock and a play, "Standing, Just Outside the Door." He has edited "The Best Maine Stories" and "High Clouds Soaring, Storms Driving Low : The Letters of Ruth Moore." His works have appeared in numerous anthologies and other publications including, "The New York Times," "DownEast," and "Maine Times."

A high schol English teacher for many years at Orono High School, Mr. Phippen is now retired but continues to teach writing at the University of Maine.

Both the public and High School libraries in Dexter are participating in "Penquis Reads," a regional community reading program occurring during the month of March. "Arundel," Kenneth Roberts' classic novel of Maine during the American Revolution has been selected to open what area librarians hope will become a yearly event.

Refreshments will be served at the conclusion of the program and Mr. Phippen will have copies of his books available for purchaseand signing. For more information, please call the library at 924-7292.