What to do when it doesn’t rain

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Emily Catesby  Emily Cates

I’m sure you’ve noticed it for a while: brown patches on the lawn, wilted leaves on garden plants, dusty soil, and wild animals of all sorts sighted in unusual locations in an earnest quest to find water. Usually by now there’s an abundant harvest in the garden waiting for our attention. This year, though, the harvest seems sparse and late. There’s no denying it – we need some rain!

While I’ll try not to be all doom-and-gloom in this article, there are a few tactics we can employ to make the best of our gardens during a drought. We’ll look at methods of water conservation and water-saving modes of irrigation. And we’ll examine a few plants that aren’t, surprisingly, as fazed and will still produce deliciously without a lot of rain. For more information, check out this helpful article from Cornell: http://emergencypreparedness.cce.cornell.edu/disasters/Documents/Hort%20225%20Gardening%20Under%20Drought%20Conditions%20Jan%2004.pdf

The first thing we want to keep in mind is what our priorities are. Most plants (especially newly-planted trees, shrubs, and annuals) need about an inch of water a week. Is there a rare or page6pict1expensive specimen that is a clear candidate for supplemental watering? Are there trees that were planted within the last few years? Well then, by all means, these should be watered. Plants with adequate moisture around their roots will not become stressed from a lack of water, and then, in turn, will be more resistant to pests and pestilence in future years.

There are a few tricks, though, to maximizing the efficiency of watering: First, get rid of weeds, which steal water from desirable plants…. but don’t spray herbicides or fertilizers during a drought – since they will burn plants. After weeding, apply a thick organic mulch of straw, aged sawdust or wood chips, or similar materials. (The best part about mulch is that it can conserve around 90 percent of the moisture in the soil!) Then water deeply until the soil around the roots is saturated. It’s better to water deeply once or twice a week, rather than to sprinkle lightly daily. Water in a cool part of the day when the wind is still to prevent evaporation. Remember, too, that raised beds and mounds tend to dry out quicker than standard rows. (My squash plants planted in a manure pile at the far end of the garden need daily watering. Let’s hope they produce a whole bunch of fruits to make it worth it!)

Better yet, use drip irrigation. This low-cost system of watering uses perforated hoses buried in the ground or under mulch, and takes the water to where it is needed – the roots. Since the moisture goes right to the soil, there is minimal risk of evaporation that commonly occurs with overhead watering and sprinklers. Drip irrigation does not need high pressure to operate; in fact, it can be as simple as a hose running from an elevated 5-gallon bucket full of rainwater. Recycled or relatively clean surface water can be used whenever possible. If the perforated hose is installed with the holes facing upwards, there will be less of a chance of it clogging. Drip irrigation is a great choice for both standard and container gardens, and is incredibly efficient. Do consider this as an option in your garden and orchard if possible, as it is well worth the effort and minimal expense.

Another thing to keep in mind during a drought is our lawns. Which, by the way, will be much happier and better-looking if we don’t mow when it’s dry. If the temptation to mow is irresistible, try only mowing after it rains.

Also, try to put off pruning for a less water-stressful time. Dead and diseased branches are fine to prune, but hold off on pruning otherwise –  since pruning stimulates new growth that is especially drought-susceptible. Deadheading flowers, however, is a good idea. Spent flowers suck up needed water and should be removed. Plus, they look prettier this way.

Now, for the good news! Some plants don’t mind a lack of water, or tolerate it better than others. Raspberries, for example, aren’t so bothered and seem – in my garden anyways – to boast sweeter fruits and have less problems with diseases. Same goes for garlic: I made sure to mulch it like crazy and keep it weeded, and it surprised me unexpectedly this year. Despite me insisting on not watering it, my garlic rewarded me with healthy, delicious bulbs of good size. (By the way – if you’re reading this and you haven’t harvested your garlic, do it now!) The cherries, hazelnuts, cabbages, beans, peppers, carrots, kale, peas, herbs, and onions in my garden all seem to be OK  without supplemental watering, too. The plums, tomatoes and cucumbers, on the other hand…

Well, I hope this helps. Eventually, it will rain – hopefully sooner than later and in the right amounts.

Obituaries, Week of August 4, 2016

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FLORENCE I. DOWLING

WHITEFIELD––Florence Irene Dowling, 83, wife of the late James Dowling, both of Whitefield, passed away Monday, July 18, 2016  at MaineGeneral in Augusta. She was born in Alna on October 29, 1932, and attended a one-room school house in Edgecomb where she lived for all of her younger years.

She married Millard Spinney and they had one child. She then met her husband James Dowling in Wiscasset where they married and lived for several years before moving to Whitefield where they settled and raised their very large, somewhat crazy, family. They were married for 56 years or as she would say forever.

Florence, or Flossy as many called her, was a beautiful artist, a woman who loved making stuffed bears and dolls of all sorts. She enjoyed giving them to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

In her early years she loved playing her guitar and singing, mostly classic older country, she loved shooting her gun, she was often called Annie Oakley, as she never missed her mark. In her younger years she was an avid horseback rider, generally riding with her late husband on trails or just through the woods. She loved to read and was a great cook. Her favorite times were spent with family.

Florence was predeceased by mother, Adela James; father, Lloyd James; husband, James Dowling; uncle, Joseph Hogan and wife Marjorie.

She is survived by sons, Millard Spinney and wife Jeanne, of Alaska, James Dowling Jr. and wife Cathy, of Dresden, and Jonathan Dowling, of Whitefield; daughters, Lori Allen and husband Jon, of Whitefield, Pamela Perry and husband Burt, of Whitefield, and Paula Engstrom and husband Kraig, of Whitefield; 13 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; and a sister, Louise Bougie and husband Joseph, of Sanford.

Donations in her memory may be made to MaineGeneral Harold Alfond Center for Cancer Care (HACCC), 361 Old Belgrade Road, Augusta ME 04330.

LOUIS H. GOODWIN

WINSLOW––Louis H. Goodwin, 100, passed away on Friday, July 22, 2016, at his home in Winslow. Louis was born in Rumford to Frank and Mary (Therault) Goodwin on June 15, 1916.

His family moved to Madison when he was a child, where he attended local schools and graduated from Madison High School in 1936. On August 12, 1939, he married Rachael Mathieu.

His first job was as a milk deliveryman, followed by working at the Madison woolen mill for ten years. He later worked hand-sewing shoes at Skowhegan Shoe for 22 years, and finally worked as a custodian and bus driver for M.S.A.D. 59, Madison, for 15 years until his retirement at age 70 in 1986.

Despite working very hard to support his family, Louis always made time to spend with them. For example, after working all day, he would take his oldest son on a bicycle to go fishing.

He loved baseball, especially watching the Red Sox play. He also loved taking long walks, putting together jigsaw puzzles, and going to play bingo with his wife and friends.

For all of the things he did throughout his life, he will be best remembered as a loving and supportive husband, father and grandfather.

Louis was predeceased by his parents, three brothers, and a sister.

He is survived by his wife of 76 years, Rachael; two sons, Peter Goodwin and wife Adeline, of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina and Paul Goodwin and wife Jennifer, of Madison; eight grandchildren, Michelle Goodwin, Mark Goodwin, Anita Krazenski, Danny Goodwin, Christina Sylvestre, Erica Violette, Ryan Goodwin and Adam; special niece Patricia Tobey and husband Harry, as well as several other nieces and nephews.

He will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege to know and love him.

LEON O. RICHARD

OAKLAND––Leon Omer Richard passed away on Sunday, July 24, 2016, at his home. Born on July 11, 1932, in Vassalboro, he was the son of Hubert and Paula (Picard) Richard.

He was drafted by the United States Army, and proudly served his country during the Korean War. Upon returning from Korea, he married Beverly Jean (Pare), on February 12, 1955. Leon and Beverly resided in Vassalboro, where they raised their six children. A member of the plumber’s union, Leon was a hardworking, skilled master plumber who worked on many large building projects in the area. He would later be employed by the Maine Central Railroad, where he worked for 18 years, retiring in 1997.

Leon was a remarkable man who took great pride in his role as a devoted husband, father, grandfather “pup” and great-grandfather. He loved his wife, six children, ten grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, wholeheartedly and unconditionally. He could often be heard saying, “I love you,” to each of them, and he gave the gift of many hugs. He was so very proud of his family, and he loved to be surrounded by them, whenever he could be.

Next to his family, Leon’s other joy was staying active, which he did, up until the last week of his life. He enjoyed several daily walks around the cul-de-sac, and always took the time to stop to talk to the neighbors, and enjoy the birds and other wildlife around him. On any given day, you might also see him whirling around on his mini golf cart that he referred to as “Fred’s Green Machine.”

An incredibly humble man, he was self-sacrificing, strong and soft-hearted; and he will forever be admired and cherished. He will be sorely missed, but his infinite love and his legacy will live on through his loving family.

He was predeceased by his parents (Hubert and Paula Richard), sister Yvette Goodrich, and brother Daniel Richard.

He is survived by his wife Beverly of 61 years; his six children, Pamela Jacques and husband Joe, of Fairfield, Ammie Breton and husband Alan, of Oakland, Tammie Richard and companion Tim Warren, of Smithfield, Leon Richard and wife Liezl, of Nikiski, Alaska, Carla Caron and husband Keith, of Winslow, and Gene Richard and wife Alicia, of Rome; grandchildren, Brian, Kelly, Jeffery, Jessica, Ashley, Casey, Derek, Justin, Jacey and Louise; great-grandchildren, Brian Allen, Anthony, and Bailey; sister, Emily Loiselle and husband Leo, of Fort Meyers, Florida; and sister-in-law Maureen Richard, of Camden.

An on-line guestbook may be signed and memories shared at: www.lawrybrothers.com.

Memorial donation may be made to The Travis Mills Foundation, 89 Water Street, Hallowell ME 04347, or www.travismills.org/donate.

ROSALIE PALOW

WINSLOW––Rosalie Palow, 80, of Winslow, died on Tuesday, July 26, 2016. She was born on April 14, 1936, and was the daughter of Bernard and Yvonne (Boivin) Poulin.

She grew up in Vassalboro and attended l local schools. She would go to work at the chicken plant until it closed and then worked in the K-Mart restaurant until it closed–she then retired. Rosalie enjoyed helping others. She was a member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, in Winslow.

She was predeceased by her parents; her brothers-in-law Arthur Dutil and Harley Mairs and her nephew Michael Mairs.

Rosalie is survived by sister Bernadine Dutil, of Vassalboro; brother Bernard Poulin, of Waterville; five nieces; three nephews; and several great-nieces and nephews.

Please visit www.lveilleuxfuneralhome.com to share condolences, memories and tributes with her family.

MICHELLE A. LeBRUN

WATERVILLE – Michelle “Shelly” A. LeBrun, 46, passed away unexpectedly  on Thursd­ay, July 21, 2016. She was born September 18, 1969, in Waterville, the daughter of Charles P. LeBrun and Priscilla J. (Shorey) Abbott.MICHELLE A. LeBRUN

Shelly will be sadly missed by her family and friends. She had a heart of gold and would help anyone who needed it.

She is survived by her three children, Maggie, Nicholas and Sarah; grandchildren, Alianah and Lydia; mother, Priscilla Abbott and step-father, Dale; sister, Leah Norton and husband Chuck, their children, Megan and Adam; several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her father, Charles LeBrun.

Memorial donations may be made to  Shelly’s memorial fund, c/o Priscilla Abbott, 906 Abbott Road, Winslow, ME 04901.

Arrangements under the direction and care of Dan & Scott’s Cremation & Funeral Service, 445 Waterville Road, Skowhegan, Maine 04976.

RONALD H. SHERMAN

PALERMO – Ronald “Ronnie” Howard Sherman, 74, passed away Tuesday, July 26, 2016, at home. He was born October 30, 1941, in Waterville, the son of Howard Wales and Virgeline Lucille Sherman.

RONALD H. SHERMAN

RONALD H. SHERMAN

Ronnie loved all things hunting and fishing. He instilled a love for both in his son and his grandchildren. Visiting the deer farm, helping his son, Kirk, with the chores, and feeding the deer apples, were among his favorite things. He coached Little League and softball when his children were young. He was very proud of his family and always did what he could to help his children.

He was a volunteer firefighter with the North Vassalboro Fire Department and worked for Cianbro Corp., of Pittsfield,  at a young age. He retired from Huhtamaki after 33 years as a south end panel operator with Union Local #449. That is where he met his lifelong friend, Leo Beaulieu. They spent many hours together fishing, hunting, and four wheeling.

Ronnie is survived by two daughters, Kim Young and husband Jeff, of Albion, Karen Parisien and fiancé Joseph “J.B.” Lewis, of China; one son, Kirk Sherman and wife Judy, of China; grandchildren, Michael, Jessica, Amy, Jesse, Kayla, Corbin, Brianna, Josh, Brittany, Harvey, Kiki, and Kali; great grandchildren, Katie, Lucas, Sawyer, Parker, Madyson, Zayne, and Colt; sister, Cynthia French of China; niece, Keeley French; nephew, Herbert French; great niece, Breama French.

He was predeceased by his parents, Howard and Virgeline Sherman; and wife Jane Sherman. They were married for 52 years and life wasn’t the same for him after she passed on December 27, 2014. They are together again.

Their wishes were to be buried together. A graveside service for both Jane and Ronnie will be held Saturday, August 6, at 1 p.m., at the Village Cemetery, in Vassalboro, with Dennis Keller, family friend, officiating.

In lieu of flowers, friends and family wishing, may make donations in memory of Ronald, Jane, and their beloved cats, Smokey and Tiger to the Kennebec Valley Humane Society, Connor Animal Shelter, 10 Pet Haven Lane, Augusta, ME 04330.

Arrangements were under the direction of Dan & Scott’s Cremation & Funeral Service, 445 Waterville Road, Skowhegan.

EDITH M. GREENE

WATERVILLE – Edith Marie Greene, 90, passed away Thursday, July 28, 2016, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Augusta . She was born March 27, 1926, in Waterville, the daughter of Axel H. And Alice M. (Johansson) Frodahl.

She was employed for many years by Diamond International, in Oakland. She was a member of Assemblies of God Church and taught Sunday school. Edith enjoyed cooking and baking. A devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, she was always ready for a game with the kids or a cup of coffee and a kind word for all. Her kind heart filled our lives with joy and laughter.

Edith is survived by husband Edward O. Greene, two daughters, Nancy Waraskevich and husband Tony, of Waterville, Heidi Montuori and husband John II, of New Jersey; daughter-in-law, Beverly Greene, of Winthrop; five grandsons, Joey Waraskevich, of Oakland, Jared Waraskevich, of Waterville, John Montuori III, of New Jersey, Jason Greene and wife Rebecca, of Lisbon, Casey Greene, of Winthrop; granddaughter, Amanda Montuori, of New Jersey; great-granddaughters, Riley and Harper Waraskevich, of Oakland, Eleanor Greene, of Lisbon, and several nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her son, Wayne Greene; two sisters, Elsie Sprague, Eva Frodahl; and brother, John Frodahl.

Memorial donations may be made to the Dementia Society of America, PO Box 600, Doylestown, Pennsylvania 18901; by phone: 1-844-336-3684; or online at www.dementiasociety.org.

Arrangements under the direction and care of Dan & Scott’s Cremation & Funeral Service, 445 Waterville Road, Skowhegan, Maine 04976.

OTHERS DEPARTED

LOUIS P. BELANGER, 82, of Port Charlotte, Florida, passed away on Thursday, July 7, 2016, at his home. Locally, he is survived by a son, Dennis Belanger and wife Linda, of Oakland, and daughter Judy Richards and husband Karl, of Whitefield.

ESTHER F. DAWSON, 82, of Waldoboro, passed awayt on Friday, July 22, 2016, at the Knox Center. Locally, she is survived by her granddaugbhter, Kasey Blood, and great-grandson, Mason Blood, both of Whitefield

LORRAINE R. SIROIS, 86, of Waterville, passed away on Sunday, July 24, 2016, at Woodlands Assisted Living Center, in Waterville. Locally, she is survived by a daughter, Linda Bouchard and husband Leo, of Oakland, and son James Sirois and wife Cassey, of Winslow.

RUTH P. RICKER, 89, of Clinton, passed away on Friday, July 29, 2016, at Inland Hospital, in Waterville. Locally, she is survived by a brother Arlie Philbrick, of Oakland, a sister Ethel Bates, of Waterville.
FORMER RESIDENT

KEITH V. FRENCH, 52, of Shenandoah, Virginia, passed away on Sunday, July 24, 2016, following a battle with cancer. Keith grew up in Weeks Mills. He worked in the woods, then continued a family tradition by becoming an over-the-road trucker. Locally, he is survived by his parents, Vivan A. and Vernie E. French, of Weeks Mills.

Letters to the Editor, Week of August 4, 2016

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Ben Twitchell for State Representative

To the editor:

Ben Twitchell has my vote to represent Winslow and Benton in the House of Representatives. Choosing a candidate to represent me in Augusta is never a decision I take lightly. Ben Twitchell is a candidate I know and who I can trust to do what’s best for Winslow, Benton and the State of Maine.

Ben is a proven leader who has served our community for years as a member of the Town Council. He’s been a mentor for our local kids as a Scout leader for many years. Ben will work hard to lower the tax burden on our working families and small businesses. He’ll work to enact real Welfare Reform, to clean up Fraud and Abuse and to make sure our State’s scarce resources go to those who are truly in need.

We need to send a Representative to Augusta who will not do the bidding of special interest groups and their lobbyists who line the halls of the State House.

It’s time we send someone to Augusta in November who’ll work for the people of Winslow and Benton. This is why I’m voting Ben Twichelll for House of Representatives, District #78.

Ray Lemieux
Winslow

Albion Neighborhood News, Week of August 4, 2016

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by Mary Lee Rounds

Busy weekend in Albion. All of the pageantry leading up  to field day with the selection of the queen/princess of field day, the parade,  auction, chicken barbeque, other food sales, lawn sale items and games for kids filled much of the week.

It is my understanding there will be more available about the winners, etc., next week so I will hold off on it and give you all more then with  pictures hopefully.

It has been a hot sultry summer, wells are drying, gardens are dying and I have never seen such lawns as brown as this. Even those nice lawns in the past are brown.  I think we need to pray for rain or get a rainmaker to come to town.  I have watched storms go both sides of the ridge and never deliver us a drop.  That also happened when we first moved here around 30 years ago.  Let’s hope for a long slow ground soaking rain.

Have a great week, stay cool and hydrated.

College programs wrap up successful year at KVCC

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According to experts, within the next few years, a majority of jobs in Maine will require post-secondary education.  Yet, little more than half of the students who enroll in college end up staying long enough to earn a degree. Jobs for Maine’s Graduates (JMG) and Kennebec Valley Community College (KVCC) are excited about a new program aimed at trying to change that.  KVCC is one of seven colleges in Maine to offer the new JMG College Success Program; a program that provides students with the one-on-one academic and personal support needed to avoid dropping out of school.

“Having the JMG College Success Program here is great for the students”, says Karen Normandin, Vice President of KVCC. She says the school has had a TRIO program on campus since 1993, which serves students who are low-income, first-generation college students, or those with disabilities. She says, “JMG is a wonderful complement to TRIO.

What I love about these programs is that both understand the importance of connections and relationships.  This is where trust is fostered!”

JMG works with 5,500 young people, primarily middle schools and high school students, across the state, keeping them in school and providing them with the skills and guidance needed to be ready for college and careers. Two years ago, JMG leveraged its success with these students and launched the College Success Program; a comprehensive college preparation, bridging and retention program. The program serves students who were in a JMG program in middle school or high school, foster care youth, and those who dropped out of high school and eventually earned their GED.

“These students are full of potential and they need us,” says Jessica Rodrigue, JMG’s College Success Specialist at KVCC.

“One of the most important and exciting elements of the program is getting into the high school classrooms as a way to connect with students and encourage them to further their education. Once they are enrolled here at KVCC, I’m here to guide them and to offer support and encouragement every step of the way, so they can stay in school, get a degree, and go on to do the amazing things they are capable of.”

Rodrigue works closely with the school’s TRIO director, collaborating on students they have in common to make sure the students’ needs are being met, but without duplicating services.

“From freshman year in high school straight through to college graduation, JMG’s College Success Program is there for these students”, says Craig Larrabee, President  & CEO of JMG. “And, by partnering with great programs like TRIO, we are confident we can make a difference.”

Observations while waiting for tomatoes to ripen

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by Roland D. Hallee

The drive from work in South China to my summer camp in Vassalboro is short – 4.7 miles, 10 minutes. But, along the way, I have made some observations that kind of make me think.

For instance, I came across a flock of turkeys in a field on the Nelson Road the other day and thought nothing of it. Then, it hit me.

There was a time, not too long ago, when the sight of a wild turkey was eye opening, generally causing me to stop the truck, get out and create a Kodak moment. Nowadays, I see turkeys and it’s just another sighting. Turkeys have become so common place that we don’t react like we used to.

As a matter of fact, in the last three days alone, I have almost collided with two that jumped out of the brush on the side of the road, and decided they had the right of way.

I guess you could apply the old saying, “Familiarity breeds contempt.” What used to be novel, is now irritating.page12pict3

A mouse at work

On the morning of July 4, during my vacation, I was sitting on my deck with a cup of coffee, with a strong case of the thousand yard stare. I noticed some movement out of the corner of my eye, and saw a field mouse sitting on the barbecue pit. From there it  ran into the wood pile that is located nearby, and disappeared into its center. A few minutes later, it emerged, jumped onto the pit and proceeded to the hole of one of the cement blocks. It gazed around as if to make sure nothing was observing its movements, dropped its cargo of leaves and bark, and proceeded down the hole. It then popped its head back out of the hole, grabbed what was obviously nest-building material, and hauled them down the hole.

page12pict2It then came out of the hole, ran back into the wood pile, and repeated the steps. I sat and watched it for approximately 10 minutes, and it must have made at least a dozen trips in that time frame. The appearance of the black lab on the scene caused the mouse to retreat to the wood pile for cover.

I went over to the barbecue pit and peered into the hole, and sure enough, the mouse was in the process of building a nest.

Fat cat

While sitting in my screen house one evening we heard some scrurrying around the fireplace. At first we summized that it was probably either a raccoon or skunk. Upon closer examination, we saw what is perhaps the fattest house cat I have ever seen. Apparently, during its nocturnal travels, the cat visits many camps and gobbles up whatever grub it can find.

Circle of Life

I was sitting on my couch one day, catching up on the some reading when, out of the corner of my eye, I saw an extremely quick movement outside through the glass, sliding doors. I put the reading material down just in time to see a cat haul a chipmunk out of the fire pit, and page12pict4proudly pranced off with it in its mouth. Initially I was a little irritated that the cat couldn’t leave that little guy alone. My wife and I always get some pleasure watching the chipmunks go about their business, whether scrounging under the bird feeders for some discarded seeds, or playfully chasing each other around. Then I realized I had just witnessed nature’s circle of life in its purest form. It was the second time I witnessed something like that this summer.

Whether it’s turkeys, mice, or a common house cat, it’s simply amazing to watch Mother Nature’s creatures, large and small, go about their chores, foraging for their next meal, the hunter vs. the hunted, or preparing for winter, even in July.

I’m Just Curious: A little fun

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by Debbie Walker

By now in our relationship, you know that I love time and money saving tips. I really love the odd ball ones and that’s what I’m studying tonight.

The following information I found in my 2011 “Who Knew?” calendar, plus a few words of my own (of course). The calendar is by Jeanne Boosline Lubin and Bruce Lubin.

Hope you enjoy them:

Got a gluing project and it got messy? Rub a little WD-40 into dried glue and wipe clean. (Where was that bit of news when I glued my fingers together?!)

Got a white dog that gets stains under its eyes? Rub a little vinegar into the fur to remove yellow or brown spots. (You try it first and call me if it works. Wonder if it would work on skin for our dark circles under our eyes?!)

Got a mop that requires replacement cloths? Use baby wipes instead of pricy cloths. Rinse the wipes off before using; they’ll get your floor just as clean (No babies in this house, if I brought those in it would scare Ken into heading for Alaska!)

Got slivers of soap? Cut a slice in the side of a body sponge and slip them inside. Lather up and rinse. They say you’ll get so many suds you probably won’t need to repeat. (How dirty would you have to get to need a repeat job?)

Got grout stains? Use sandpaper between the tiles, don’t scratch tiles. (Know what works great and is easier than sandpaper? Clorox has that tube for taking out stains. Works wonders on grout. This one I have experience with. Kills that mildew crap easily!!)

Got too much dressing on your salads? Put the dressing inside a baby sippy cup and see how that works. (I go buying a sippy cup AND baby wipes Ken will certainly be running!!)

FYI – The color of the White House isn’t just tradition – it’s energy efficient. (Who knew the founding fathers were so “Green” when they chose that color, their choices were probably either white or barn red!!)

Got used tea bags? Let them dry, cut them open and mix with your kitty litter to keep it smelling fresh. (If you don’t use enough tea bags, call mom, she could save you plenty!)

Got diaper rash? Make a paste with about 1/4  cup of petroleum jelly and one tablespoon of corn starch then spread on irritated skin. (Ken honest, there will be no babies in this house unless they are brief visitors!!!)

Got a squeaky door? Spray shaving cream on offending hinge? (Vegetable spray, WD-40 and coconut oil work too!)

Got old wallpaper you want to come off? Use a spray bottle of vinegar and saturate first. Wait a few minutes, it’ll peel right off. (You’d have to wait a few minutes, get out and get some fresh air!)

FYI – don’t use cruise control when it is raining. It could cause you to have an accident. (Retired truck driver Ken says so! And so do manufacturers.)

Got smelly feet? Break up a few sage leaves and spread them inside your shoes. It’ll kill bacteria that causes foot stink. Cut down on how much you perspire by drinking sage tea and give it several weeks for results.

Got toenail fungus? Soak toes in the darkest beer you can find. The yeast attracts the fungus out. They say it’s important not to drink any beer during this treatment. It’ll reverse the effect. (Ken thinks you ought to be able to drink the dark beer and heal from the inside out like drinking sage tea for smelly feet!)

I’m just curious if you have any unusual tips?

Contact me at dwdaffy@yahoo.com subject line: A Little Fun   Tootles!!!!!! (I decided I like that one.)

REVIEW POTPOURRI: Composer Wolfgang Mozart Conductor Cesar Franck Author John Sandford

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Mozart: Abduction from the Seraglio – Ferenc Fricsay conducting the RIAS Orchestra and Chorus, various soloists; Audite 23 413, 2 CDs, recorded 1949.

Mozart’s most well known operas are Don Giovanni, The Magic Flute, Marriage of Figaro, and Cosi Fan Tutte, while the Abduction has

Wolfgang Mozart

Wolfgang Mozart

occupied a more minor position. To me, it could easily replace Don Giovanni, which I feel is long-winded and overrated. In fact, every aria and chorus in the whole opera has melodic appeal of a most engaging quality which the others, as great as they are, simply don’t sustain.

The plot centers on a seraglio or Turkish harem and  focusses on the rescue of one of three women who have been sold to a Sultan by pirates. But the tone of the opera is one of comedy and joy.

The performance is excellent on all levels- singing, playing, conducting, characterization, etc. And the 1949 performance, originally intended for broadcast on German radio, has been remastered for cd with the utmost clarity and presence. One could easily mistake it for a more recent recording. It is also still in print and reasonably priced through such Internet sites as the  Amazon vendors and the Berkshire Record Outlet.

One monarch once criticized the opera to Mozart as having too many notes; the composer replied, “It has as many notes as it needs.”

Franck: Redemption – Michel Plasson conducting Orchestre du Capitole de Toulouse with chorus and soloists; Musical Heritage Society S 160605, CD, recorded 1994.

Cesar Franck

Cesar Franck

This is one of the most beautiful pieces of music ever written. Scored for narrator, soloist, chorus and orchestra, it has the characteristics of a mass or oratorio of a devotional quality, similar to Verdi’s Requiem Mass, Beethoven Missa Solemnis and the Mozart Requiem, The composer Cesar Franck (1822-1890), after completing it in 1871, considered the work a tone poem, which is for orchestra, as is a symphony, but has the other label instead. The recording of the full score is the first one, unlike recordings of the opening Prelude which were the norm previously. It is also top-notch and still very much available.

Franck’s fame was  based on his gifts as an organist and he was the lead one at Saint Clotilde Church in Paris for at least 3 decades. His father recognized his musical gifts when  Franck was a boy but proved to be such an arrogant,  domineering jackass  even throughout his young adulthood that, when he was courting his future wife, her parents saw the situation with Papa and offered to let him stay with them; the reason being that they really liked him but understandably wanted to keep an eye on him and their daughter.

A suspense novel.

John Sandford: – Deadline; G.P. Putnam’s Sons, 2014, 388 pages.

John Sandford

John Sandford

I have covered one or two thrillers by John Sandford that were centered around the uncannily brilliant Minneapolis/Saint Paul investigator Lucas Davenport the protagonist of the more than 25 novels of the Prey series. Deadline features Davenport’s colleague Virgil Flowers, who covers the upcountry Minnesota lakeside/sticks region. I have read one or two of the previous Flowers novels but didn’t find them   hanging around in my memory.

This title is different and significantly more exciting – I gulped it in three days! There are basically three different situations Flowers is confronting, a series of mysterious dognappings, a neighborhood meth lab and a very murderous local schoolboard stealing millions over a period of years. The crimes and perpetrators do overlap, mostly unwittingly, with the schoolboard providing the most narrative interest.

But enough of the hints. A must read!

IF WALLS COULD TALK, Week of July 28, 2016

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Katie Ouiletteby Katie Ouilette

WALLS. a recent description of Skowhegan was “a whole lot of energy and a ton of fun,” and,  for sure, Skowhegan Downtown is about to welcome one of the outstanding happenings that has gone on for years and it will begin at the famous and historic Skowhegan Fairgrounds on Thursday, July 28, and end on Saturday, July 30, with the Artisan Bread Fair.  O.K. WALLS, this is a quote from THE Kennebec Explorer:  “it’s an eating event dedicated solely to ‘Real Bread’ and everything associated with this most ancient and central staple (even tasty pastry).  Don’t miss a single crumb.

WALLS, this is the perfect time to explain Maine Grains that Amber Lambke was inspired to bring to Somerset County’s historic Old County Jail.  First of all, several years ago, Amber was the person who brought The Kneading Conference to Skowhegan by reaching out to folks in charge of The Kneading Conference from California.  Remember, faithful readers, when the first Kneading Conference was held at The Tewksbury Center, on The Island in Skowhegan?  Well, interest grew and grew and now the Skowhegan Fairgrounds is the chosen location.  Yes, WALLS, we are so fortunate that Amber has become an important member of our community that has known the pitfalls of loss of downtown businesses and, thanks to Amber and others who are dedicated to making Skowhegan downtown great, again, this wonderful town is growing through those dedicated efforts.

Many thanks must go to many leaders of our community in this issue, faithful readers.  On the July 19, MainStreet’s Executive
Director Kristina Cannon, planned a meeting that leaders throughout the community attended.  Welcomed was a member of the board of selectmen, representatives of schools and hospitals in Skowhegan.  Representatives of organizations such as Rotary, Lions, Skowhegan Heritage Council, and the many businesses that have chosen to be here.  Need I say that we must give Andy and Donna, of Russakoff Jewelers, many accolades for being one of our historic mainstays (the business having been started by Andy’s grandfather Sussman when he immigrate to Skowhegan).  Also attending this momentous meeting were folks who help others cope, such as interim executive director of our Skowhegan Area Chamber of Commerce and Executive Director Jason Gayne, of Hospice.  WALLS, that meeting was for all attending to say what they now want Skowhegan to become and the ideas flowed, for sure.  The meeting was held at our Rennaisance Building and Alton Whittemore, for whom ‘Alton’s Way’ is named, would be proud.

Other events are planned way into August, faithful readers, and WALLS will keep you informed, for sure.  And, have a happy summer!

SOLON & BEYOND, Week of July 28, 2016

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Marilyn Rogers-Bull & Percyby Marilyn Rogers-Bull & Percy
grams29@tds.net
Solon, Maine 04979

Good morning, dear friends. Don’t worry, be happy!

The Solon High School Alumni Association held its annual meeting on July 16 with 65 alumni and guests present. The class of 1966 celebrated its 50th anniversary with two members; Mark Rogers and Richard Poulin. Emma Pluntke  received a scholarship of $ 1,000. Others celebrating were Alice Heald, 76th anniversary; Arlene Meader and Albert Starbird, 75th; Mary Heald Bishop, 73rd; Marie Poulin, 67th; Jack McCarty, 65th; Pat McCarty Coro, 62nd; Betty Tolman Smith, 60th; Doug Hayden, Chloe Hayden Collins, Ann Rogers Edwards, 58th; and James Tolman, 57th.

Jay S. Hoar, a former teacher of Solon attended.

The last class to graduate from Solon High School was the class of 1969. This class always shows up in large numbers to celebrate. This year they had seven members show up to celebrate 47 years. They were Reggie Padham, Arthur Myers, Penny Rogers McQuilkin, Linda Stickney Steward, Dana Parsons, Bobbie Tewkbury Proctor and Jo Rancourt Holden.

Officers are Ann Jackson, president, Reggie Padham, vice president, Linda French, secretary, and Brenda Whitney Padham, treasurer. Alice Heald is news committee, Judy Bishop, lunch committee, and Kathy Swett, awards.

Class members traveled from California, Betty Smith; Arizonia, James Tolman; Oklahoma, Richard Poulin; Florida, Mark Rogers and Bobbi Proctor.

An auction was held and $415 was raised for the scholarship fund. This money was matched by Reggie and Brenda Padham. They wanted to insure people that their money would be safe and used for what it was intended for. Betty Heald was the auctioneer.

A luncheon was held and catered by the Solon Pine Tree 4-H Club under the direction of Eleanor Pooler.

Sorry, but this is all I could gather up for news this week, with people not wanting any of their personal news printed anymore, it makes it tough. But…Percy is still able to help out with some pleasing memoirs…May you have enough happiness to keep you sweet. Enough trials to keep you strong, Enough sorrow to keep you human; Enough hope to keep you happy; Enough failure to keep you humble; Enough success to keep you eager; Enough friends to give you comfort; Enough wealth to meet your ne3eds; Enough enthusiasm to look forward; Enough faith to banish depression; Enough determination to make each day better than yesterday.

Mark Rogers and Richard Poulin

Mark Rogers, left, of Florida, and Richard Poulin, of Oklahoma, were the only two members of the Solon’s class of 1966 to attend their 50th reunion, on July 23. Photo courtesy of Marilyn Rogers-Bull