There's a veil of secrecy over 64 Balsam Drive in Millinocket. Mum's the word. Shhh!

You didn't hear it from me but there's soon to be a new director for Baxter State Park. A replacement for the recently retired Buzz Caverly.

Buzz II.

The Baxter State Park Authority is meeting next Wednesday at its compound under a cone of silence and with bellies full of turkey and stuffing to make its decision. Rumor has it that Pamola himself may attend this special gathering.

The anticipation is killing me. I can't wait. Just a hint please?!

Seriously, the new Buzz will have some pretty big shoes to fill and face many challenges. Caverly ruled the Baxter roost for more than a quarter century, and by all accounts did a fine job of adhering to the bible according to Governor Baxter and protecting this magnificent resource. It's a tough job and he managed it with aplomb.

There is growing pressure on the Baxter resource from the sheer number of people who want to love the park to death. Never mind that Baxter State Park is, for all intents and purposes, the epicenter of a growing controversy over what the future of Maine's North Woods should look like and whether or not our long history of traditional uses can survive.

So whoever is chosen for the job--congrats! And good luck. You're going to need it. But you've got a great staff and a state full of supporters who care deeply about our Baxter State Park. We wish you well.

Who will replace Buzz Caverly as Director of Baxter State Park? We'll know next week...