TheDailyME.com Blog

Dexter Farm Project meeting and minutes

2010-01-18T22:43:00.000-05:00

Hi all;
I want to remind you that we are having a special Farm Project meeting tomorrow night, January 19th at the Town Council Chambers. We will be going to the Fossa Building and go thru the building then come back to the Chamber to discuss YOUR needs and thought with our Architects QA13's Ken & Paula.
I am including 2 sets of minutes from December and January.
I hope you are able to come and see the building and input your thoughts. Sorry I haven't kept in touch as much, but trying to get out of my mid winter slump!
Call me if you have any questions.
Judy

January 5th, 2010 minutes
Judy opened the meeting by welcoming everyone and giving them a brief run down on what the plan for the General store has developed into so far. Judy noted that she met with the QA13 Architects on December 17th and covered a broad scope of information with them about the project. QA13 Architects will be visiting the building on the 19 of January at 7:00 p.m. to do another walk through. we talked about the many things that can be accomplished on our own, as a community, to clean up, remove debris and get work going, to save on the cost.

Judy clearly stated that this is the time that the community needs to come together and that we need volunteers. The group discussed that weekends would be the best time to work. Jean asked if she could get some people in there, on their own, during the week, and it was decided that it would be best to stick to weekends so that the work could be supervised.
Judy asked Fred Sherburne if they could use his pick up truck for dump runs once we decided how the debris needs to be removed. A pick up was offered for use by Lauraine Piquette if needed. Jean suggested pricing a dumpster.
A roll off would be an easy way to get rid of all of the garbage at once. The group decided to wait and see what need to be removed and how. We were made aware of a few things that may need special disposal. We talked once again about reusing the tin on the walls. Judy said that the paint was so thick that it should be removed and the tin reconditioned. Dave reminded us that the paint would most likely have lead in it. We talked about cost once again.
It was requested for people to bring heaters and tools. Emily, Barb, and Kathy all have space heaters that they volunteered for use.
We talked about how important it is to find out the need of the suppliers, as far as refrigeration and space for their products. It is very important for as many farmers as possible to give feed back on this important question. Judy showed all of us a diagram if the current foot print of the building and pointed out an area where we hope to put a root cellar.
We have the stove and the slate sinks being donated for use in the new general store. Bradley heating has offered his labor for free to remove the heavy ten burner stove from the fourth floor. Judy remarked about what a great and reasonable businessman Bradley is.
It is planned for Paul Dillan, an attorney to help us understand what will be needed. He has agreed to do a farmers workshop for all interested. Fred mentioned that Miles carpenter insurance has also committed to involved with the project. Lauraine mentioned knowing someone who might record the meeting. That way that if someone missed the workshop and wants to watch it they will have it available to them on line.
Judy expressed how happy Ernestien Fossa was to hear that the old family store will be up and running again. She looks forward to visiting the store. Kathy suggested getting old pictures of the building and blowing them up to add to the decorating inside. Judy mentioned that the old Fossa sign might be available to us for use in the new general store.
We talked more about getting the students from the school involved. Jean mentioned that they do so much fund raising that they should be part of such an important project.
Once again the question of the second floor came up and it was decided that we must speak to the architects about the cost. A number of $20-$30K was estimated by Lauraine and it was mentioned about how it was easier to do it now than later. The fear of not enough money came up.
Also, Dave was concerned about adding any changes to the grant. He said he wouldn't want to risk what we already have. The idea of having a big town roof raising party came up once again. We have a tentative date of March 6th. The issue of handicap access to the second floor came up. The cost of an elevator, and what the second floor could be used for.

Mark said that the government was offering stimulus packages for 1% for a/c and heating. Dave said that we were looking into additional grants.
We went back to the idea of a fund raising party. Lauraine offered to organize the event. Judy suggested an auction and to use the kitchen there and all do some cooking. Jean mentioned that a pie auction always does well. Kathy mentioned donations from the farmers. Lauraine suggested for farmers to give gift certificates from the farmer for when their crops are ready. We talked about baskets for auction and bonds donated from local banks. We concluded that we should do it all, to do our best to bring in as much money as possible. Judy mentioned to invite the Key club and Have a barn dance, to get them involved with fund raising. Jean suggested a winter formal/prom. Lauraine offered her home to the key club members if they wanted to have such an event. It was suggested to invite all the local other Key clubs too.

Emily brought up the idea of an additional town board , to display local news and events located near the new store.
We talked about the importance of being green. We all agreed that this project is to assist in sustaining the local area to be more dependent on our own town for supplies and food. we went around the room to get a quick number of stores that we each shopped at. Most shopped locally,at one or two stores.
Our next meeting will be on the 19th at 7:00p.m.

Farm Project meeting

2010-01-18T19:45:00.006-05:00

DRDC meeting 12/01/09 minutes
Roger Brawn opened the meeting with a brief talk about what this meeting is about and what things have been talked about in prior meetings.

Everyone introduced themselves around the room. Fewer people attended than last meeting, but we still had a good size group. Jason Bird spoke about the bids being publicly open today and about the architects process for the selection of the general contractor. He stressed the fact that since DRDC approved grant is a Federal grant, that the rules for guidelines might limit us in keeping our local contractors and sub-contractors involved with this part of the project.
Judy Craig requested any feed back from local farmers about what their needs might be, so we could incorporate them into the design plan. Judy also told us that we were able to use the slate sink and stove from the old Odd Fellows kitchen. "It was donated to the town and would look great in our new store", she went on to say. Judy also told the group that she had plans to bring the web site up to speed, and planned to post farmers stories as part of a way of staying connected with farmers all over the country and the world. The thought was once again brought up, on streaming the meetings to allow people who were unable to attend to still watch and listen to what went on. Once the workshops begin it will be important for all who are interested in the project to stay involved.

We talked about insurance for the farmers and what would be needed. It was mentioned that we should invite insurance companies to put on a workshop. Miles West Insurance company was suggested as being one of the best in the area. They are excited about this project, and ready to help with the support that will be needed.
In the upcoming weeks Judy will meet with lawyer Paul Dillian of Corinth to talk about how he might assist us in this project. She will also get some quotes from him on his fees and rates.
The group talked about certifying kitchens, labeling and branding for the new store. We talked about the cost of bags being printed and brainstormed about what a logo might look like. Fred Sherburne brought up the idea of getting the school involved with a graphic design. We also talked about soil quality and different things that farmers would need to know to grow the quality of produce we plan to carry.
We discussed that the USDA has an abundance of programs available. They even offer cooling and refrigeration loans of up to $400K to the producer at a rate of about 3%. The fact was brought up about lenders requiring crop insurance.
We talked about the guidelines for meat, and the importance of approved slaughter housed. The certification is different for poultry, and a limit is placed on the amount. They still must be licensed. Eggs are inspected by the state of Maine depending on the size and number being produced. Product liability is still needed. Vegetables require product liability insurance too. The rules change when you deal with the commercial stand compared to the private stand.
Judy once again spoke about how much we need more members, and to please join DRDC. If more farmers were to join it could help leverage grants without forming other boards.
Town manager Dave Pearson spoke about where we are with our understanding of this project thus far; He stressed that the plan was to have locally grown and / or organic products;food would not be prepared on the premises, additional grants would be needed to certify a kitchen.
A kitchen grant will be another goal. Meat that was cryo-vac would be the only meat sold. The store will not be a co-op, but might have a membership with special benefits. The store will also act as an information center for farmers. If additional help was needed to harvest a crop or do work, farmers could locate help through the general store. Judy reminded the group that a pre-buying plan would be good for raising capital. Tithing was also an idea we wanted to keep in the plan of things.
A plan to put together a brief survey for farmers and consumers was discussed. We would plan to have that in the works by the 19th of January 2010.
Roger Brawn went over some of the bylaws and talked about all the responsibility and different jobs that Judy will have in her new roll as director of DRDC. The salary that she receives can also be used as leverage for additional grants. We all concurred that Judy Craig should be paid for all her hard work and efforts as director.
The next meeting for Dexter Regional Development Corporation is January 5th 2010.

“Wanted” Central Maine Farmers to weigh in on General Store

2009-11-04T13:21:00.000-05:00

The Dexter Regional Development Corporation (DRDC), in coordination with the Town of Dexter, is in the process of developing a year round general store (to be known as the Fossa General Store), located at 4 Main Street, to sell locally grown, locally produced foods and other goods. We are in hopes to also have a small certified kitchen on premise for a variety of uses.

The group recently received a CDBG grant to renovate the Fossa Building which is currently empty, but is owned by DRDC, a 5013C non-profit organization. Once renovated, the building will be ready to open by August of 2010 in hopes to sell Central Maine foods grown & produced within a 25 ± mile radius of the Dexter area.

In the mean time, we are seeking local farmers and goods producers’ opinion in how to develop a consumer friendly general store. We are generating a list of farmers interested in selling their goods and find out what goods are available. We envision that most of our Maine store stock will come from the 25 +/- mile radius.
We are inviting you to the 1st Farmer/Producer meeting on Tuesday, November 17th at 7 pm to have a “farmers input” session. We are looking for what farmers are producing and are they interested in providing products to the retail store. The Farm Project Committee is also looking for input from the consumer and what type of locally grown & produce products are YOU looking for. This is a community effort and we need the community’s input and support.

Currently we are forming a Farmers Advisor Board which will include farmers, DRDC representatives, and a cross section of experts in the various sectors related to this initiative, coming from the Penobscot, Piscataquis & Somerset communities. We expect this Board will oversee the quality of the products, the addition of new products, make suggestions on the general business operations and such. We will be employing staff needed to run & manage the store, inventory and other operations.

There will be many more aspects of the project as time progresses. The year round General Store is just Phase I of the larger project we envision that will include an online ordering system with possible home delivery (if there is enough support), the development of a local creamery, warehousing for storage, a café, and developing a large scale shared greenhouse. The possibilities are endless!
DRDC is currently seeking a USDA Value Added Producers Grant to help cover the operating costs for the first year or two and this is only one of many grants we are looking into and applying for.

We have developed a survey that is available at DexterFarmProject.com that will help develop a working relationship between the providers, the sellers and the consumers. We hope that you take the time to fill it out.

You can also call 924.3067 to ask to have one mailed to you or for a personal visit. Please note that you can remain anonymous, but we would like your name for our records if you are comfortable with that.

The community is invite to the Farm Project “regular monthly meetings” on the 1st Tuesday of every month and are held at the Dexter Town Council Chambers on Main Street in Dexter.

For more information, please contact Farm Project Coordinator Judy Wilbur Craig at 924.3067 or email at judy@DexterFarmProject.com.

Dexter council to ponder land deal at Fossa site

2009-10-15T13:48:00.000-04:00

Dexter council to ponder land deal at Fossa site
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
By Diana Bowley of the BDN Staff - DEXTER, Maine — The Town Council next month will consider deeding a small plot of land between the former Fossa building and the pavement of the parking lot access road to the Dexter Regional Development Corp.

The nonprofit corporation owns the Fossa building, and it plans to renovate the building to house a year-round farmers market (local General Store). The corporation would like to have an entrance to the building on the small plot that would comply with the Americans With Disabilities Act.

“It just seemed to make sense,” Dexter Town Manager David Pearson told the council last week of deeding the small piece of land to the corporation. The Fossa building is going to rebuild and it would make sense to have an outdoor deck for an entrance on the Route 7 side, he said.

Both Pearson and Councilor Judy Craig are members of the DRDC. Craig abstained when the council voted to place the request on next month’s agenda.

“It’s just creating a use for wasted space,” Councilor Roger Brawn said last week.

The approximately 0.03 acre in question is “kind of a gully” that starts at the granite curbing next to the road leading to the back of the downtown shopping district and ends at the Fossa building, according to Pearson.

Pearson said the plot, which does not include the small parking lot, the trees and the roadway, was part of the property the town purchased for about $40,000 from the Davis family several years ago, he said. The entire lot is assessed at $7,900. Of that, the small piece, which represents about one-quarter of the property, has a value of less than $2,000, according to Pearson.

The corporation, through the town, obtained $230,000 to rehab the Fossa building. Requests for proposals are being prepared for an architect to design the project. Once that work has been completed, the corporation will solicit bids for the construction. Organizers hope to have the building finished and open next summer.

The corporation has agreed to pay all fees and costs in the execution and recording of the municipal quitclaim deed.
"This content originally appeared as a copyrighted article in the Tuesday, October 13, 2009 edition of the Bangor Daily NEWS and is used here with permission."

Farm 'experiment' tests subsistence

2009-10-15T13:47:00.000-04:00

Farm 'experiment' tests subsistence
Friday, August 28, 2009
By Diana Bowley of the BDN Staff: DEXTER, Maine - Fred Sherburne, 57, and his nephew Shawn Sherburne, 35, watched as honeybees flitted over the sea of golden yellow sunflowers that surrounded them, a crop both men hope will help their struggling multigeneration dairy farm survive.

The elder Sherburne, who operates Top of Maine Farms off the Ripley Road, planted about 18 acres in sunflowers this year — and much more of his approximately 400 acres in oats, wheat and corn — in an attempt to diversify and to help offset the loss from dropping organic milk prices.

"Diversification is the key to the whole [farm] thing," Fred Sherburne said Monday.

How well the experiment works will determine whether Shawn will continue the operation when Fred retires and whether Fred's own grandchildren will continue the tradition.

"Farmers in Maine have got to diversify in order to make it a viable operation for the next generation, and we're trying to do that, to make it viable for Shawn to continue on with the family farm," Fred Sherburne said.

Maine residents could do much to help struggling farmers by buying local.

"We've got to look closer to home and try not to buy [farm products] from so far away and try to keep our production and sales local," Sherburne said. "I don't see the small farmers making a living by sending our milk to Massachusetts and New York."

Right now Maine dairy farming is so troubled that conventional milk prices are where they were when Sherburne took over the farm in 1972, he said.

Sherburne said he sold his dairy herd in 2003 but struggled for two years trying to find out what he could do in life that he enjoyed as much. In the end, he decided farming was what he needed to do, so he returned to dairy farming in 2006. He also was aware that he had to make some crucial changes in order to keep his farm, which he has had to refinance twice.

Albion farmer Henry Perkins piqued Sherburne's interest in sunflowers. Perkins, who had been growing sunflowers for about two years, produces vegetable oil from the seeds, according to Sherburne. Perkins' success was enough to encourage Sherburne to purchase some of the seeds and begin his own effort. Using some of his own acreage and that of a friend's, Sherburne planted about 33,000 sunflower seeds per acre, and other than an application of manure and an attempt to keep the weeds at bay, he's done little else to care for the plants.

In a month or so, the brilliant sunflowers will be harvested. Sherburne plans to store the seeds for a while, then have Perkins press them to separate the oil from the meat. The oil will be used to fuel Top of Maine Farms and the farm's tractors, while the meat will be fed to his milking herd of 140. The stalks will be ground up for bedding so nothing is wasted, he said.

Sherburne expects the sunflowers to produce 40 to 80 gallons of oil per acre, which represents about one-third of the volume of oil he now uses on his farm. The meat from the seeds will represent about a third of his herd's supplemental protein.

"We are trying to be a biological farm in that we are using all natural [items]," Sherburne said. At the same time, "we could potentially furnish our energy needs here, both diesel and heating fuel."

The wheat planting is an experiment that is being conducted with help from the University of Maine Cooperative Extension, according to Sherburne. "It's an interesting experiment," he said.

Ten percent of the wheat harvested will be sold to a Skowhegan market for bread making and the remainder will be fed to his cattle. The stalks will be used for straw so as not to waste any part of the plant.

The oats will serve as cattle feed and bedding, according to Sherburne. As for the corn — well, Sherburne would rather not talk about that, he said with a curt laugh. The sunflowers, which rise about 5½ feet into the air, have far surpassed the size of the corn.

While the rainy summer has affected his crops, Sherburne is optimistic the harvest will be productive. "It's been a really tough [year] — there's been way too much rain initially," he said. The rain has resulted in crops below normal quality and yields that have been reduced considerably, he noted.

Sherburne, who works the same property that three generations before him worked, said planting new crops is a learning experience. "I think about alternative things all the time," he said. "This is an experiment, and we'll see how it works as to whether we want to expand it or give it up."

Looking back, Sherburne said if he had to do something different, it would have been to "pray a little more for better weather."

Eyeing his field of sunflowers, Sherburne said, "I like the look of sunflowers, so if nothing else, I knew they were going to be pretty."
"This content originally appeared as a copyrighted article in the Friday, August 28, 2009 edition of the Bangor Daily NEWS and is used here with permission."

My backyard friends

2009-10-05T13:28:00.000-04:00

This little girl and her twin hang out in my backyard munching on my brussel sprouts, strawberry plants and parseley in the raised bed garden.
I didn't have the heart to chase 'em out because they are so darn cute!
I even went out on the deck and talked with them and they just stood there...
Better having them then the wolf that walked by my office/home window last week.

Dexter to develop farm project - Bangor Daily News

2009-08-17T08:52:00.001-04:00

Dexter to develop farm project - Bangor Daily News

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Locally Grown Revitalization underway in Dexter

2009-08-14T08:56:00.001-04:00

Thursday, July 30, 2009
DEXTER - An idea simmering on the back burner for years is coming to a full boil in Dexter. When the Fossa family gifted the Dexter Regional Development Corporation with their downtown property several years ago, the idea of a farmer's market/general store was "one of the top three on the list" according to Judy Craig. But there was no money to make improvements to the building.

Recently when local farmers brought concerns forward about market losses, the DRDC had a new version of that old idea. Why not create local markets for local farmers?

"We decided to take action and look out for ourselves," Craig said. "We have the Fossa building. We've had offers of renting or selling, but it just wasn't the right time or it wasn't enough money. To rent, it would need too much work. So fate, I think, came into play. If you wait long enough, the right thing comes along, and that's what happened."

The DRDC has ambitious plans to assist local farmers and revitalize downtown.

"Farmers are losing markets – especially organic farmers," Craig said. "We see no reason milk should be shipped out of state, processed and then shipped back so we asked 'Why aren't we doing this locally like we used to."

Craig said that a core group of people came together around the idea of creating a local creamery and a farmer's market. Most had Dexter roots going generations back, and though individuals hadn't kept in touch over the years, there is a sense of trust that moves the group forward.

"When somebody says they'll do something, they follow through," Craig said. The group has been meeting, and growing, regularly for several months. Two of the farmers involved are checking out equipment and other markets doing similar projects. The group is talking with state officials and trying to design something that will be good for their own community, but also for farmers and communities statewide who want to follow the trail being blazed.

Craig said she envisions the plan has three cornerstones. First is the former Fossa general store, which once fully renovated, would sell ground wheat, produce, meats, eggs, chicken, bakery items – all locally produced. The store would also house an ice cream shop offering locally made dairy treats.

"We want a kitchen in the store to do demonstrations like kids coming in to learn how to prepare vegetables and dips for health snacks," Craig said. "Eventually, we hope to have a building where we will have a certified kitchen where people can actually do canning of their products so they can be sold in the store. These are lofty ideas, but doable."

The second cornerstone is the creamery. Milk, cream, ice cream and yogurt would be produced there. Butter might be, as well, though an individual local business is considering taking on that operation. Third, in order to reliably meet demands, the business would need warehousing space.

The Dexter Creamery and Farmer's Community Project is still very much in the design phase. Discussions are ongoing about how to structure and oversee the business, which will be a non-profit. The creamery will be a LLC while the store will be owned by the DRDC, which is a non-profit organization. Any profit made will be reinvested into improving the enterprise, Craig said.

"We're trying to support local farmers so they can add on hands, plant more wheat or beans," Craig said.

Products not available from Dexter producers, such as buffalo meat, honey, maple syrup, produce and goat cheese, may come from other producers within a 50 mile radius, Craig said. The idea is to offer locally produced, homegrown foods that provide affordable, healthy items while simultaneously supporting local farmers. Organic items may be offered if research indicates that local consumers would be willing to pay the higher prices for these items.

The group is in discussions with a company that provides delivery service to health food stores within that 50 mile radius. If something can be arranged, it will provide additional markets for local produce in addition to the Dexter store.

Heart of Maine Resource Conservation and Development is working with the Dexter group. Software is being developed that will allow consumers to go online and place grocery orders to be picked up at the Dexter store later. Eventually, Craig also envisions home delivery of locally-grown grocery items. Another component of the software will allow farmers to input the crops and products they have available for sale.

Craig said that the USDA and the Maine Department of Agriculture are aware of the project and have shown interest. So have two local school districts who may serve locally grown foods if they are an affordable option. The Sebasticook Valley Chamber of Commerce has also taken an interest, as has the Tiger Wellness Program. The Abbot Memorial Book Club has formed a focus group to look at warehousing options and organization structure for the group.

As of now, the Dexter Creamery and Farmer's Community Project is waiting to hear the outcome of a $250,000 Community Development Block Grant application that would pay for Fossa building renovations. An announcement of grant recipients is expected on August 7. Those interested in more information may call Craig at 924-3067 or email her at judy@dextermaine.com "This content originally appeared as a copyrighted article in the SVWeekly.com and is used here with permission."

Dexter organizers create farmers market plan

2009-08-14T08:54:00.001-04:00

Tuesday, June 16, 2009
By Diana Bowley BDN Staff: DEXTER, Maine — Dexter is circling around its farmers to ensure they survive so local residents can continue to get wholesome and fresh farm produce.

Organizations from the local book club to the Dexter Regional Development Corp. have been working with local farmers behind the scenes for months on plans that would both support the farmers and improve the region’s economy.

“We all feel that we need to become, in the climate of the country, locally self-reliant and this is the first step in doing that,” Judy Craig, town councilor and Dexter Regional Development Corp. president, said Friday.

The group has adopted a “three-prong” approach: the development of a local creamery where milk would be pasteurized and where other milk-derivative products such as ice cream, yogurt and cheese would be made; the creation of a year-round farmers market on Main Street; and the purchase of a warehouse to store the local goods. They also envision wholesaling the local products to health food stores throughout the state.

“This is all a big, old idea with lots and lots of local support,” Craig said. She said the organizers are working to secure grants to help move the project forward.

Craig said a search is being conducted for a building that could be used for the creamery and the farmers have a search under way for equipment needed for the business. She said organizers envision a processing plant that would have a glass partition where visitors and residents could watch milk being pasteurized, and butter and ice cream being made.

“We’re doing lots of legwork right now,” Craig said. “We’re each going in a different direction to try to get information to bring back to the next meeting.”

Residents also are being asked to weigh in. In the town’s comprehensive plan survey, residents are being asked whether they would pay a little extra for organic products and whether they would support local farmers.

The organizers envision the products made at the creamery, as well as locally grown or raised products within a 50-mile radius, would be sold at the farmers market downtown. Those products would include honey, locally grown meats, and maple syrup as well as garden produce.

Craig said the Fossa building location owned by the corporation is being eyed for the market. Because the building is in “very bad disrepair,” the group hopes to secure a $250,000 grant to remove the building and replace it.

“When we first got the [Fossa] building, the first thing our vision was for it, was a farmers market,” Craig said. “This will take it to the next level.”

The Town Council last week agreed to support the submission of a Community Development Block Grant for the communitywide effort. While the town would be the applicant, no local property taxes would be used, Craig said. Any match would be provided by the corporation, she said.

The town’s part-time economic development specialist, Jason Bird, is writing the grant on behalf of the town. USDA officials also are working with the organizers.

The project is growing in support daily, according to Craig. Local doctors are enthused because of the wholesome quality of local produce and its relation to good health. In addition, a school official in the region expressed his interest in the possibility of offering the fresh produce and milk products in his school system.

“While we’re supporting our local farms and becoming more self-reliant, we’re also becoming healthier,” Craig said.
"This content originally appeared as a copyrighted article in the Tuesday, June 16, 2009 edition of the Bangor Daily NEWS and is used here with permission."

Wild West Weekend update

2009-07-17T09:36:00.000-04:00

7th Wild West Week-end plans in motion

DEXTER - Dexter Regional Development Corporation is saddling up for the 7th Annual Wild West Weekend, held annually the 1st weekend of August which falls on July 31st, August 1st & 2nd in 2009. Come help us “Unite Family and Community, now and in the Future”.

Wild West Weekend has become an economic boost for area businesses, helped with fund raising, creating awareness for non-profits, and showcasing our beautiful Main Street and the Town of Dexter.
Part of this years events include or are tentative: P & L Markets Pig Scramble on Saturday afternoon at 2 pm, Dragon Den’s 3rd Annual Stick Pony Rodeo on Main Street and Country Charm’s 3rd Annual Wheel Barrow Race, Friday’s Kiddie Parade, Crazy Bob’s Pizza Eating Contest, DRHS Field Hockey Maine Chicken BBQ, Maine Choice Realty Skillet Toss & New Hope Baptist Church Wild West Olympics, Ray Stafford Concert, Debbie Myers Friday Night Concert 7 to 9 pm, North Country Riding Club Horse Show, Wild Jim’s Jamboree at Wayside Park both Friday and Saturday, Christian Community Church Chicken Pie Supper & outside Sunday Service, Dexter Fire Department Ducky Race, Roger Brawn Real Estate Scavenger Hunt, Dexter Health Care Ride-In, Poulliot-Seavey Post of the American Legion Bingo, Christian Community Church Sunday Service, Kiwanis Silent Auction, Town of Dexter Silent Auction in the Town Council Chambers, Bud’s Shop’n Save Customer Appreciation Day on Saturday 10 to 4, DRHS Football team Hot Dog Sale at Buds on Saturday.

Businesses, vendors, churches & organizations currently signed up;
Adoption Plus
A.E. Robinson
American Legion
Bangor Savings
Blackwell Insurance
Blanket Works
Brewster Inn
Buds Shop'n Save
CD Electric & ABCD Pre School
Christian Community Church
Country Charm
Country Singer Ray Stafford
CPB Food Wagon
Dexter Creamery & Community Farmers Project
Dexter Family Practice
Dexter Fire Department
Dexter Health Care
Dexter Lakes Association
Dexter Municipal Golf Course
Dexter Print Shop
Dexter Sunrise Kiwanis
Dexter Variety
Dexter Exxon
Dick's Sticks
Down East Liquidation
Dragons Den
DRHS Football Team
DRHS Key Club
Dusters Car Club
Friendly Forest Day Care
Half Moon Acres
Hall's Wholesale
J & D’s Crafts & Pantry
Judy Craig Consulting
Kent's Dogs
Mainely Cookouts
Mainely Crafts
New Hope Baptist Church
Norm Nugent Trivets
North Country Riding Club
Our Lady of the Snows Catholic Church
P&L Market
Prudential
Renys
Roger Brawn Real Estate
SAD#48 Food Services
Sebasticook Family Doctors
Sebasticook Valley Chamber of Commerce
Skowhegan Savings Bank
Snap of the Dragon
Tatto Temptations
The Eastern Gazette
Thomas Honea Balloons
Tillson True Value
Toot's Deli
Town of Dexter
Varney Insurance Agency
Yogi's Doughboys & More

DRDC will be holding the 7th Annual Costume Contest with $250 in cash prizes to be held right before the Debbie Myers Concert on Main Street.

The 5th Annual “Wild West Business Decorating Showdown” will again take place with judging on Friday.
Dress up your window(s) and/or create displays in your Dexter business for Wild West Weekend and an impartial panel of judges will be discreetly going around town during WWW and choosing who will have the honor of hanging the Annual Wild West Weekend Plaque for 2009. The winner is announced during the Main Street Concert on Friday night on Main Street
Please let me know what your plans are to make your business, club, church or home "wildly" stand out. Also, please invite your business neighbors to participate. I have created an emailing list, but may not have everyone’s email address, so let me know if you want to be added to the Wild West email list.
The Dexter Fire Department will be ending Wild West Weekend at the end of the week, August 6, 7 and 8 with their Annual Auction.
So grab your partna' and join us on July 31st, August 1st & 2nd in Dexter.
If you would like more information, contact DRDC President Judy Wilbur Craig, Wild West Weekend Coordinator at (207) 924-3067 or email judy@DexterMaine.com and check us out on the web for more details and LOTS of pictures from the past 6 years at www.WildWestWeekend.com.

Dexter Creamery & Community Farmers Project

2009-07-17T09:09:00.001-04:00

Dexter organizers create farmers market plan

By Diana Bowley
BDN Staff

DEXTER, Maine — Dexter is circling around its farmers to ensure they survive so local residents can continue to get wholesome and fresh farm produce.

Organizations from the local book club to the Dexter Regional Development Corp. have been working with local farmers behind the scenes for months on plans that would both support the farmers and improve the region’s economy.

“We all feel that we need to become, in the climate of the country, locally self-reliant and this is the first step in doing that,” Judy Craig, town councilor and Dexter Regional Development Corp. president, said Friday.

The group has adopted a “three-prong” approach: the development of a local creamery where milk would be pasteurized and where other milk-derivative products such as ice cream, yogurt and cheese would be made; the creation of a year-round farmers market on Main Street; and the purchase of a warehouse to store the local goods. They also envision wholesaling the local products to health food stores throughout the state.

“This is all a big, old idea with lots and lots of local support,” Craig said. She said the organizers are working to secure grants to help move the project forward.

Craig said a search is being conducted for a building that could be used for the creamery and the farmers have a search under way for equipment needed for the business. She said organizers envision a processing plant that would have a glass partition where visitors and residents could watch milk being pasteurized, and butter and ice cream being made.

“We’re doing lots of legwork right now,” Craig said. “We’re each going in a different direction to try to get information to bring back to the next meeting.”

Residents also are being asked to weigh in. In the town’s comprehensive plan survey, residents are being asked whether they would pay a little extra for organic products and whether they would support local farmers.

The organizers envision the products made at the creamery, as well as locally grown or raised products within a 50-mile radius, would be sold at the farmers market downtown. Those products would include honey, locally grown meats, and maple syrup as well as garden produce.

Craig said the Fossa building location owned by the corporation is being eyed for the market. Because the building is in “very bad disrepair,” the group hopes to secure a $250,000 grant to remove the building and replace it.

“When we first got the [Fossa] building, the first thing our vision was for it, was a farmers market,” Craig said. “This will take it to the next level.”

The Town Council last week agreed to support the submission of a Community Development Block Grant for the communitywide effort. While the town would be the applicant, no local property taxes would be used, Craig said. Any match would be provided by the corporation, she said.

The town’s part-time economic development specialist, Jason Bird, is writing the grant on behalf of the town. USDA officials also are working with the organizers.

The project is growing in support daily, according to Craig. Local doctors are enthused because of the wholesome quality of local produce and its relation to good health. In addition, a school official in the region expressed his interest in the possibility of offering the fresh produce and milk products in his school system.

“While we’re supporting our local farms and becoming more self-reliant, we’re also becoming healthier,” Craig said.

2009-06-14T16:23:00.006-04:00

Support your local farmers

2009-04-27T11:45:00.002-04:00

The letter below is from a local farmer and I hope you will pass the word about how this company is screwing with our Maine Milk Producers. The letter is written by Fred Sherburne of Dexter...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
“You can feel good about Hood”… NOT!

This slogan has brought smiles to the faces of young and old alike for several generations. I remember as a youngster, in the early 1960's, my dad shipped milk on the “Boston Market.” The milk actually traveled less than 20 miles to the H.P. Hood cottage cheese plant in Newport, Maine…The best cottage cheese in the Northeast…The biggest producer of the same on the East coast. My 4th grade class and my 4-H club both took field trips there. We were given Hood Dixie Cups with individual wooden “spoons” taped to the tops which told us, “You can feel good about Hood.”

In the late 1960's, our farm switched to the Maine Market.” Maine had a unique pricing system linked directly to consumer demand. There were several bottlers in the Bangor area, the bigger ones being Grant's Dairy, Smiley's, Footman's and Pleasant hill Dairy, probably more. Our milk went to Pleasant Hill, about 40 miles from the farm. These dairies tried to bottle about 90% of what producers sent there. The price was about 1/3 higher on the “Maine Market than on the “Boston Market,” $16.00 compared to $12.)) per hundred weight (CWT), or about $1.00 per gallon at the farm compared to $1.50…a big incentive to be on the “Maine Market.”

A similar difference today is offered by the “Organic Market” versus the conventional market. Producers of organic milk receive about 30-50% more per gallon or CWT as do “conventional” farmers. To do this, we have to adhere to strict rules as to how our land is treated, using no chemical A.K.A. synthetic fertilizers or crop protection products. Our animals must be allowed to have access to green grass and sunshine, no unnatural medications, hormones or stimulants. It is not all about the money. It is a philosophy, a paradigm of returning to a simpler, more stress-free life for the family, farm and future.

In 2005, Mark McKusick convinced H.P. Hood to look to Maine for a source of organic milk. Two companies, Horizon Organics and Organic Valley Coop., had been in the state since the mid-1990's, paying roughly $19 CWT for about 10 years. Mark could see that a third party would stir up some competition and, perhaps, make a price advantage for Maine organic producers. It worked. Our farm started shipping organic milk to Hood in July of 2006 at a price of $24.50 CWT, or about $5.00 over what it had been for roughly ten years. More increases were promised and some came. The other processors had to bring their prices in line with H.P. Hood, who stated that they wanted to be the “price leader in the organic market.” They wanted most of their milk to come from Maine. They stuck their neck out at Mark's urging, and went to Washington County to pick up four family farms and also to Aroostook County, doing the same. It wasn't viable, but it would be; the potential was there.

Aaron Bell of Tide Mill Organic Farm in Edmunds, ME was H.P. Hood's poster child for this new generation of family farms. With a history of six generations on the same land, this Downeast farm had not sold milk since Aaron was born. The farm started selling to Hood the day Aaron's son was born, bringing hope to aspiring farmers in Washington County where there hadn't been a dairy farm in nearly thirty years.

In February of 2009, H.P. Hood, in a certified letter, informed Aaron that his organic milk contract would not be renewed…nor will the contracts of the other Washington County farms…nor will those of the farms in Aroostook County. Eight family farms currently find themselves without a market when H.P. Hood had gone after them as producers, promising everything but a termination letter. “You can feel good about Hood”…NOT!

Less than a month later, two other producers in Central Maine were notified that their contracts would be terminated on October 1st, 2009, a six month notice. Mark McKusick and Richard Larry, the two producers who had worked so hard to get Hood into the area now find themselves cut off. They are very forthright with their opinions and everybody knows where they stand. They had not been quiet regarding Hood's about-face to its farmers.

Our farm was wooed by Hood to renew our contract with them in July of 2008, but at a lower price than my earlier contract had paid. I chose to go with Organic Valley and terminated my relationship with Hood.

H.P. Hood has gone back on its word to the organic family farms of Maine. They told us a story to get us to sign with them. Once we signed a contract, when renewal came up, they wanted us to be puppies, to “rollover” and sacrifice for the good of H.P. Hood.

Hood's organic is labeled under the trade name of “Stoneyfield Milk.” For the solidarity of the Maine daily industry, Maine farmers as a group, and the citizens of this great state, please join me and my family as we organize to boycott all Stoneyfield milk and H.P. Hood labeled products until our voices are heard.

Fred Sherburne
Maine Dairy Farmer

Dad making music

2009-04-04T14:07:00.001-04:00

Sometimes the best times are home with family and friends!!!
Dad has broken out his harmonica and been playing at our little home parties along with friends with guitars, the washboard, spoons and even the bass champagne bottle!
Have around 10 or so people and laugh until your cheeks hurt.

Dexter Town Council Resolution

2009-01-14T15:46:00.001-05:00

RESOLUTION B2009-1 JANUARY 8, 2009

WHEREAS, the Governor has proposed in his latest budget message that the Charleston Correctional Facility have its operations be reduced in the next biennium, specifically that the facility be reduced to no more than 90 inmates, and that all other inmates be transferred to jails without access to work programs; and

WHEREAS, this reduction of the Charleston Correctional Facility will have the effect of curtailing the work release programs presently being run at the facility; and

WHEREAS, upwards of 40,000 hours of service to non-profit organizations and municipalities were provided to our area in 2008 by the work programs of Charleston Correctional Facility, and these services provided benefits to our communities in the form of saving property tax costs, construction of facilities for area non-profit organizations and training and rehabilitation to inmates that are and have been valuable in ways that would offset any perceived savings at this site;

THEREFORE the Dexter Town Council hereby opposes the specific budget cuts being proposed for the Charleston Correctional Facility, and asks the representatives of Dexter residents in the State legislature to oppose these cuts, and asks the Governor to reconsider his proposal.

Roger S. Brawn
Erlfred W. Sherburne
Judy Wilbur Craig, Councilor
David Clukey, Councilor
Sherman G. Leighton, Councilor
Anton Larson, Councilor
Dean R. Thompson, Councilor

Charleston Correctional Facility

2009-01-14T15:27:00.003-05:00

Fellow Councilors, DRDC, friends and bloggers:
Tom Sands of Charleston Correctional called me Tuesday to ask that we and anyone we can get to help to call or email the Criminal Justice Committee who will have a say on the Supplemental Budget hearing going on today and tomorrow.
I have emailed all the people on the Justice Committee with the email below, as well as others who might listen.
Please, if you feel that the closing is bad, please contact anyone you might know who can help.
thanks.... Judy
For more information check out Diana Bowley's BDN story
--- the email I sent out is below---

Dear ________,

RE: Charleston Correctional Facility

The Town of Dexter is very unhappy that a housing unit in the Charleston Correctional Facility will be closed if this Supplemental Budget is passed as presented.

Dexter has utilized the CCF crews for both municipal projects as well as non-profit organizations, which save our town thousands of dollars over the past few years.

I have seen the CCF crews at work (when they were working at the Police Station this summer) and they do a great job and are very courteous. It would be a pity that these men would no longer be getting job experience while being incarcerated.

With the closing of this unit, many of Dexter's residents who work at CCF will loose their jobs.

Please take this “Corrections” portion of the Proposed Supplemental Budget to Balance the Current Fiscal Year, and place in the Biennium Budget.

To pass as presented seems very ‘short sighted’ in the scheme things. Long term, it would appear that the State of Maine will be no further ahead financially, but the rural citizens and inmates will be the losers.

Thank you for your consideration in this matter! It is very important to the Town of Dexter as well as the surrounding communities.

Judy Wilbur Craig
Dexter Town Councilor
President of Dexter Regional Development Corporation
207.924.3067

Thanksgiving

2008-11-30T20:47:00.002-05:00

I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving!!!!!
Anyone have a "leftover Turkey" recipe? hahahha

Elections: Frustrated with Negativity

2008-10-30T13:56:00.008-04:00

Thank God the elections are almost here and the endless negative commercials will be over! I wonder (aloud) if the negativity of the commercials parallel the situation of our county.

Every time I see one candidate bash the other, I often turn the TV/radio off or mute it, and say to Courtney or anyone who will listen, "if they spent as much time explaining what they stand for and how they are going to represent us and less time bashing their opponent, I would more likely vote for them'....

These days more & more Commercials, television show, reality TV and movies portray (the main) characters as being mean, double crossing and game playing. Okay, I am watching too much Dancing with the Stars and Hallmark movies, but isn't being nice a good way to heal our country?

Where are the nice, honest, straight shooting people/candidates?
Are they becoming lost in the muddle of negativity?

When my kids were little and I had foster kids, I had only one easy rule in my house, "Consideration".
Consideration for others covers just about everything under the sun. Think about it. If politicians were more considerate of their constituents with whom were voted in and that they represent, wouldn't our town, state and country run more smoothly.

If "consideration" were to be exercised, then the politicians would not be making sweet deals with their cronies and bad bills would not be passed in the middle of the night or hidden in a foot tall bill that has nothing to do with nothin'?

I personally think that we have outlived having 2 major parties...
Of course, I don't know everything by any stretch... But I do think if everyone wasn't split by party, maybe "groups" of like minded people could work together without the pressure of what is best politically for their party, maybe some of the dilemmas our country faces could be solved more easily.

Think about our local elections... There is NO PARTY LISTED on the local ballot! So people are elected on their merit, NOT on their party. Interesting concept?

Whether or not you agree with me or not, be an American and VOTE...
But with that said, know what you are voting for! Don't just vote "party lines" unless YOU believe in what you are voting for.

Enough ranting today.... saw another negative ad and had to blog it, 'cause Courtney and the dogs are sick of me saying it outloud.

Vote on November 4th!!!

2008-10-17T12:52:00.003-04:00

I was just watching a YouTube video made by some of the top stars in the United States. Usually, I am not impressed by 'stars' endorsing a certain party or candidate, but this video is all about VOTING!

I think it is worth taking a look at!!!!

On the local level, tonight Dexter Candidates Night is at 6:30 pm at the Universalist Church. If you can't be there in person surf on over to the Town of Dexter website and click on the yellow "Live Streaming Video" box on the right/top of the page.

You will be able to see 'live' the participating candidates comments, thank to Dave Giles. Yes, he is a candidate, running for town council this year. But I will tell you he is not doing all this "live streaming video" work for you because of that, but to help the citizens of Dexter be more informed!
Hats off to you Dave for the efforts you are putting forth......

Big Lake Wassookeag

2008-10-10T18:47:00.001-04:00

The colors on the lake today were magnificent!
Fall is such a wonderful time of the year! The brisk breeze, the colorful foliage, the smell of fall in the air.... And then there is the smell of wood smoke from the chimney, knowing that the home is warm and cozy from the stove...

Fall also is when people are decorating their yards with scarecrows, cornstalks and chrysanthemum arrangements.

If you fell like taking a foliage ride, don't leave out driving around the side streets in Dexter. It appears that more Dexter citizens have decorated their porches and driveways for the season then in the past! Pleasant Street, Maple Street are a couple that are nice! Check it out.....

Exciting News, New Technology

2008-10-09T10:32:00.004-04:00

Some exciting news!!!
Bob Simpson, a previous Town Manager, and I used to dream about putting council meetings and such on Cable Access TV for more citizens to keep in touch with what is going on in Dexter. Well, that never came to fruition, but now in the 21st Century, new technology has created new opportunities.

"STREAMING VIDEO"

Dave Giles who is a teacher at the Tech Center in Dexter is making it possible for the citizens of Dexter to watch the meetings from the comfort of their homes.

We are trying a new "Streaming Video" broadcast online on Thursday, October 9th at the monthly Dexter Town Council Meeting.
Dave will be videoing and recording live starting at 7 pm.

We hope that it will be insightful and beneficial.... (and that it works...) In the future we hope to bring you more "Live Streaming Videos" from other meetings, events, book club discussions.... The list is endless.

Click here on Dexter's Website for the broadcast and click on the yellow box on the right.

Please email judy@DexterMaine.com with your comments and thoughts.

More Yoga talk...

2008-10-08T13:51:00.003-04:00

I mention quite awhile ago, Courtney and I go to Yoga every week for an hour with Yoga Guru Donna Kraft-Smith.

We have been going well over a year now and still really enjoy it!

I received an email recently from someone who had read my blog about going to Yoga and they sent me a great link called "100 Free Online Instructional Yoga Videos".
It has 100 yoga videos on YouTube that are free.

Click here to check them out

Fall Flowers at Abbott Memorial Library

2008-10-05T21:37:00.002-04:00

I took this picture while waiting for Courtney at the Library.
She is working as a fill in at Abbott Memorial Library but is still working for Judy Craig Consulting.... phew !!!!

So of course I had my camera and took some great shots behind the Library.

Speaking of which.... A few weeks ago, a historical engineering consultant came to the Library suggesting what kinds of improvements, fixing existing issues and providing lots of insight in maintaining a historical building.
John was soooo interesting!
Courtney and I joined library trustee Bob Crawford and Librarian Liz Breault and John as he took us from top to bottom of the Library.
Most interesting and thought provoking.
Example: if you are fixing something, use the same materials as was used when the building was built or upgrade. Not to save money and not necessarily for historic value, but because the "fix material" will bond better with the original materials and may actually cost less.
I never thought of it that way... I assume newer building products would be better, but that's where "thought" got me :)

Fall is here!

2008-10-05T15:27:00.005-04:00

Ya... I took a vacation again from blogging...
There are many times I want to write down my thoughts and share some news, but I wonder if it worthy of publishing for the public to read.
Now that fall is here I will try to change my ways with the season.

Speaking of the season, Darlene (of the Snap of the Dragon) and I "dressed" Main Street in Dexter again with Chrysanthemums. The new owners at Spring Street Greenhouse (Tim) gave us a good deal on buying the chrysanthemums.
FYI: Darlene and I grow the summer flowers, but we do use some tax dollars to buy the fall flowers.
We were really pleased with the new Main Street barrels we purchased for the 2008 season. They are a lot bigger than the previous year, which was good because they looked full and held the moisture a little better, but took more flowers to fill them.

I hope everyone enjoyed them. Dexter's Main Street looks so festive. Thanks to the businesses who also decorated. Country Charm's window boxes look great! And thanks to the Prudential guys who watered their own flower barrel this summer!
I want to thank Jean Jacobs and the volunteers who helped water this summer, although we ran out of volunteers towards the end of the summer.

If YOU would like to help out watering, give me a call. We can use all the help we can get. NOPE, we don't get paid, but the satisfaction of driving downtown in the evening and seeing how pretty it looks is reward enough!

While I am talking about flowers, some jerk stole 2 of the chrysanthemums out of the barrel in front of Vicki's Hair Salon... What kind of ass would steal flowers from Main Street? I hope they enjoy them, but I also hope that every time they look at them, they remember that they are STOLEN FLOWERS. I did buy some more flowers to put in the barrel, but still......

Stealing....
As you many know, there have a bunch of burglaries in our area lately.
I have posed the question to some town officials about starting a "community watch", sorta like the cities do neighborhood watch.
May I suggest that we all talk with our neighbors and get acquainted with them (if you aren't already).

-- Let your neighbors know if you are going away and what vehicles may be in your yard, if any.
-- Call the police if you see anything suspicious. Better to safe than sorry!
-- Do checks on the elderly

Locked doors don't seem to matter anymore if you are away, but if you have some ideas on keeping our homes safer, let me know to pass along to others.

Dexter Police Chief Art Roy recommended the public keep its collective eyes open.

“If you see anything suspicious, call the police right away. Don’t wait until later.” The non-emergency telephone number for the Dexter Police Department is 924-7622.

DRHS graduate is Olympic bound!

2008-08-10T10:53:00.003-04:00

Some of you may know that Adam Craig is family and the family is very proud of his accomplishments.
Adam has always been a quiet, self-motivated teen and now man, but with a dry sense of humor and amazing laid back energy.
I remember a few winters ago, it was about -18 outside. He and my sister-in-laws boyfriend brought me a couch and chair for my living room from my mother-in-law.

Well, anywhoooo......... After maneuvering the bulky sectional and chair thru the sliding glass door, around a corner, banging a few fingers and then assembling, Adam says; "Aunt Judy, I'm riding back to Corinth on my bike, where is the ITS trail from here?"

Remember the first of the story where is -18 degrees approximately? Yup, he stripped down to his Bike Suit thingy, unloaded his bike from the trailer that hauled the furniture and headed out..... BRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR..... How can a 'suit' so thin be warm??? But no complaints from Adam.

Lillian, his grandmother, called a little later and said he made it home safely and that he had a great ride.
Now, can you imagine that being fun??? But that is why he is at the Olympics and I am not!!!!!
Below is a story from the Bangor Daily News front page the other day about Adams journey to Beijing.

Exeter native ready to roll
Friday, August 08, 2008
By Ernie Clark of the Bangor Daily News: DEXTER -Adam Craig’s relationship with travel and terrain transcends his current occupation as an Olympic mountain biker.

Exeter, Maine native Adam Craig is on the U.S. Olympic mountain bike team. Photographed July 30, 2008 at the Bangor City Forest. (Bangor Daily News/John Clarke Russ)Life in rural Maine draws most kids to explore the great outdoors early in life, and the 26-year-old Exeter native was no exception.

"Even when he was little, he’d jump off the deck and slide down to the frog pond and onto the stream nearby," said Craig’s mother, Patricia Craig.

Such spontaneous flirtations with speed soon were followed by more sophisticated means of transit, such as driving his dad’s jitterbug in the woods — a skill acquired at age 10.

Later, Craig discovered downhill ski racing and through that sport gained an introduction to the mountains that eventually fueled a passion for maneuvering around roots, rocks and other obstacles as fast as possible on a bicycle.

Today, few on the globe are faster on a mountain bike than the 5-foot-10, 165-pound Craig, who is one of two Americans who will compete in the men’s cross-country mountain bike race at the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing.

"Adam has great bike-handling ability," said Carl Decker, one of Craig’s colleagues on the Giant Mountain Bike Team and a fellow resident of Bend, Ore. "He’s a really gifted rider, especially on descents. He has a unique understanding of how fast he can go downhill without riding too fast and crashing very often.

"He’s also really strong. He’s not a huge guy, but he breaks drivetrain components that nobody else breaks.

"Plus his cardiovascular is strong. He’s the complete package."

Adam Craig. (Bangor Daily News/John Clarke Russ)It’s that package — along with some strong recent efforts that include winning his second straight national championship last month — that leaves the 1999 graduate of Dexter Regional High School in an optimistic frame of mind heading into the biggest two hours of his competitive life on Aug. 23.

"This is the first year I’ve ridden in the elite group from the start at a few of the World Cup races," he said. "Before this year my good races have always been come-from-behind efforts. To be riding at the front in races now shows me that if I’m strong and fit and fresh as I usually am, somehow at the end of August I should be right there."

A rapid uphill climb

Craig has nearly a decade of elite mountain biking already behind him as he approaches his Olympic debut.

He competed in his first world championship at age 17 in 1998 at Mont Saint-Anne, Quebec, which along with Mount Snow in West Dover, Vt., considered one of his home courses on the World Cup and national bike tours.

In reality his biking career began long before that.

"When he first rode down Cadillac Mountain by himself at age 10, that was scary to me," said Patricia Craig, head of the art department at Hampden Academy. "Adam rode down and [his father] Harvey rode down, but I stayed at the top. I waited to drive down because I didn’t want to pass them. Plus, if I had driven down and seen them racing I knew I’d freak out."

From Adam Craig’s scenic introduction to the sport came a rapid ascent up the mountain-biking ranks.

In 1999, just after graduating from Dexter — where he went for his final three years after spending his freshman year at John Bapst Memorial High School in Bangor, which had a ski team — Craig won his first junior national championship.

That led to an invitation to the U.S. Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs, where he spent the better part of two full seasons training between races. It was there the notion of being an Olympian one day first crossed Craig’s mind.

"It’s like, ‘We’re at the Olympic Training Center, that’s probably because they think maybe I’ll go to the Olympics someday,’" he said. "At that point I was realistic, but I also knew that I was racing pretty well, and even then I could see that I’d have my best races at some of the bigger events like the junior world championships. In ’98 or ’99 I raced up [beyond my age level], and I thought maybe it would work out someday."

Craig won the first of three consecutive under-23 national cross-country championships in 2001, but that fall he returned home and enrolled at the University of Maine while continuing his mountain-biking career on the weekends.

Adam Craig tunes up a training bike while visiting friends at Ski Rack Sports in Bangor July 30, 2008. Craig is on the U.S. Olympic mountain bike team. On the right is Sebastian Boyington of Milford, a bicycle mechanic and sales person at Ski Rack Sports.(Bangor Daily News/John Clarke Russ)It represented a crossroads of sorts for Craig, who had to decide between concentrating on his education toward starting a career in the working world or making mountain biking his working world.

His performances that year — including his second straight U23 national championship — made that decision rather easy.

"When I graduated high school and moved out to Colorado Springs to the Olympic Training Center, I think that was the turning point of thinking that I was going to do this full time and see if I can make a go of it," he said.

"There were a couple of years of still working with Harvey in the winter, pounding nails or whatever and going to school before it panned out, but going to school and not training at all that spring and kayaking a bunch somehow made me really fast."

Craig turned pro in 2002, and quickly attracted the interest of a corporate sponsor in Giant Bicycles, another step toward confirming his status as a rising star in his sport.

He won his third straight national title in 2003, then moved out of the U23 ranks just in time for his first Olympic quest a year later.

Craig was the youngest of several contenders for two berths on the U.S. team, but a mechanical failure during the first World Cup race of the year was the first step in what Craig describes as "death by a hundred cuts" that ultimately prevented him from earning a trip to Athens.

"That year I considered myself a good choice for the team, but I knew in the public eye I was a long shot," he said. "To not make it was a bummer, but it wasn’t that big a deal. I also stood on a World Cup podium that fall, so I wasn’t that bothered."

Indeed, 2004 was not a total loss for Craig — far from it.

He scored his first top-10 finish in a World Cup event at Mont Sainte-Anne and capped off the season by placing fifth at the World Cup finals in Livigno, Italy — the first American man to score a podium finish in a World Cup race since 1995.

"Getting that World Cup podium in Livigno right after the Olympics, I knew that would keep him motivated," said Patricia Craig.

The road to Beijing

The three seasons between Olympic years saw Craig continue to improve while being among the busiest of the world’s elite riders.

He had six top-10 World Cup finishes in 2005 and 2006 as well as top-25 efforts in the world championships both years.

The 2007 season marked Craig’s second straight as the top American in the final World Cup points. He also won the gold medal at the Pan American Games in Brazil, then returned to Mount Snow to score a breakthrough victory in the men’s elite cross-country race at the U.S. national championships.

"He seems to spread himself really thin, and that was something I was concerned with," said Decker. "But he just showed over and over that he could do it."

This year there was little mystery surrounding Craig’s motivation — to earn an Olympic berth.

Ultimately, there was little mystery in the competition. Craig consistently ran first or second among six U.S. candidates for two Olympic spots in the World Cup races that served as a primary measuring stick for selection.

"This has been my goal for the last four years," said Craig after the July 1 announcement that he and Todd Wells would represent the United States in Beijing. "I pretty much knew this was the situation for the last month or so, but I’m glad that it’s come to fruition."

Craig’s Olympic anticipation certainly has not slowed him since then.

Despite adjusting his training regimen to prepare for the specifics of the Olympic course, he successfully defended his U.S. championship at Mount Snow in mid-July.

Exeter, Maine native Adam Craig, a member of the U.S. Olympic mountain bike team, cuts through the brush at the Bangor City Forest July 30,2008 . (Bangor Daily News/John Clarke Russ)"I was lucky to just squeak in and win nationals on semitired legs from training that week, and that was part of the plan, too, because definitely everything’s been prioritized for the Games," Craig said. "I was kind of nervous all week knowing I was a little tired and still hoping I could pull it out."

Craig followed that up the next weekend by matching his career-best World Cup finish with a fourth at Mont Sainte-Anne. A week later, he established a new personal standard with a third-place finish at Bromont, Quebec.

Now his attention has turned fully to Beijing, a land of Olympic trepidation and opportunity.

Craig was among approximately 50 elite riders from around the world invited to test the Beijing mountain-bike course last summer — but fewer than 10 finished the race after succumbing to subpar air quality.

Air quality concerns remain among all Olympians, but mountain-biking organizers have made other changes in the aftermath of that test run.

"They’ve extended the course to 6 kilometers and attempted to make it more technical, with more jumps, more rock sections and more twisty-turny stuff, so, hopefully, it will be more of a test of our mountain-biking skills," said Craig. "But the course is really kind of irrelevant because everyone’s going to be fit and fast, and races are won on the uphills and there’s a whole bunch of them out there."

While Craig has competed for several years now against the best mountain bikers in the world, the stage for the Olympic race sets it apart from the rest.

"It’s a notch higher for sure, just like in every sport," he said. "For athletes personally, we face the same challenge in the world championships once a year, but we all acknowledge that the public eye is focused on summer sport once every four years and that’s at the Olympic Games. Everyone acknowledges that’s where you need to be and where you have to have your 200 percent game face on and not just your 110 percent."

Craig is hopeful his best 200 percent will be enough to help elevate in the American sports consciousness a sport whose hotbeds are such European Alpine centers as Switzerland and France.

"The Olympic race is a little more distilled, so there’s not as much weird stuff happening as there is when you have 270 starters at a European World Cup," said Decker. "At the Olympics there are only 30 or 40 in the race, so you’re not going to get stuck behind a crowd at the start.

"I wouldn’t bet everything on Adam winning a medal," he added. "But I wouldn’t bet everything against him, either."

As for Craig, he’s confident but not putting added pressure on himself by quantifying any Olympic expectations.

Still, there is a dream to be realized.

"I’m still trying to stay away from that actual goals thing," said Craig. "I feel like if I’m having the kind of day I’m pretty sure I can have, I should be in contention for a medal. It would be nice to get one of those.

"My mom’s already looked up what they look like on the Internet. She says they look real nice."
"This content originally appeared as a copyrighted article in the Monday, May 19, 2008 edition of the Bangor Daily NEWS and is used here with permission."

6th Annual Wild West Weekend

2008-08-06T19:01:00.001-04:00

What a great weekend despite the weather....
So..... I just wanted to convey to you all how much I appreciate Chief Roy, Officer Warren Akkerman (Dexter 10) and other Dexter officers, Jasper & Dicky of the Highway Dept, Duke & Eric of facilities for all the hard work & support they gave me and DRDC and the town during 6th Annual Wild West Weekend.

Every time something was requested or needed, they responded quickly and went above and beyond the call of duty!

Kuddos! The Town of Dexter is very fortunate to have such dedicated employees......

Despite the rain and strange weather, everything went very smoothly.

Dexter Historical Society had another "record" day at the museum on Saturday, Key Club made over $600 in the various sales, Catholic Church Jail & Bail was a huge hit, Food vendors ran out of food, pie sales sold out, amazing amount of people in the Costume Contest & Pig Scramble and the list goes on....
So once again, many thanks......

Judy Wilbur Craig and DRDC

Budget Week #2 done

2008-05-21T22:41:00.005-04:00

We finished week #2 of the "budget marathon". Monday night we met with the Department Heads of the Golf Course, Cemetery & Parks, Events & Special Programs (which included the new Alternative Energy Committee and Snowmobile) and the Fire Department.
Tuesday night we met with Mike Delaware who heads up a lot of Departments including care of the Town Hall, Morrison Building (where the Town Office is located on Main Street), Facilities and Lakes & Dams. Phew, poor guy!

First off, I would like to commend the Fire Department for putting together a comprehensive budget with the help of Finance Officer Marilyn Curtis. The FD just had the unexpectedly loss their Chief Jim Gudroe and new Chief Barry Deering had never put together a budget. He came with 3 other fire members and they worked as a team and their presentation was well researched and sincere. Kudos guys!

Another first timer was Cemetery Sexton Fred Banks (former Councilman). We teased him about being on the other side of the 'table'..... But he did a good job with his presentation. He is running into the usual "we need to replace this or that" but all in all presented his case well with forethought.

The biggest problem that all municipalities across the country are experiencing is the rising cost of heating fuel, gas, lubes, etc. Can you say 'guessestimate'? Right now there is no way to even know what the "locked in" price is going to be. So we take this years, about double it and hope for the best. With our old big historic buildings, it is going to mean cutting back in other areas. But where?

Everyone will have a different answer! Cut the parks..... cut the town hall... cut the golf course.... cut wages..... cut, cut, cut.... But what makes sense for the big picture?

Once again, we invite you to get involved and voice your thoughts!

On another note, flowers for downtown....

Tomorrow morning, Mike and/or his guys are coming here to get the benches (too heavy for me to lift) to put on Main Street and then head on down to Snap of the Dragon to pick up the 15 barrels that will go out on Main Street.

Then on Friday evening, Darlene and I are going to plant annuals in the Heart Garden, the Wayside Gazebo Garden, Town Office garden and up at the Cannon for the Memorial Parade celebration. Oh yeah and the police station window boxes!!!! Christine wouldn't forgive us, if we forgot her :)

Stop by with a trowel if you would like. We enjoy the company and the help!

Town Budgets

2008-05-19T11:59:00.005-04:00

At the last Town Council meeting, many young adults were in attendance, most for the very first time. After the meeting some gathered at the same place I stopped at and they had LOTS of "civic" questions.

IE: Can we vote during a meeting?... How do you get elected?... Can we do this or do that during a meeting?... and many other very pertinent questions to do with our town.

It was refreshing, that although there was standing room only during the meeting, many of the young adults stayed throughout the meeting, even after their subject had come and gone.

One said to me after the meeting, "I found it very interesting and want to come again". I told Councilman chairman Brawn, a former civics teacher, he would have been proud to hear the interest from them. It was like Local Government 101. I reminded these young people that now is the time to become aware, because they are the future of Dexter!

So on to the subject at hand, it is "Budget Time" once again! When you run for the council, you know that the months of May and June each year, you have at least 2 meetings per week, in addition to ALL the other meetings we attend. There is a lot of reading, learning and going over figures to familiarize yourself with each department and how & where every tax dollar is going to be spent. Hours are spent agonizing what project is more important than another, to keep the budget in check.

Another thing to take in consideration are the fixed costs that are rising faster than tax dollars! re: heating costs, insurances, pay increases, schools, county, etc. We have no say, we just pay!!!!!

Last week was our first week, covering on May 13 "Police – Recreation – Community Center" and on the 15th "Assessing – Museum/Grist Mill – Economic Development".

Tonight Council Budget workshop, 6:30 p.m. at Council Chambers covering Golf Course – Cemetery & Parks – Events & Spec Programs* - Fire * Includes Alternative Energy and Snowmobile.

At each meeting the Department head of each department presents to the Council their proposed budget for the next Fiscal year. (Dexter's fiscal year runs from July 1st to June 31st).

How it works:
Department Head plead their case for new equipment, capital improvements, tazors, fire trucks, computers, etc. ...... and with that information, we have to provide you, the citizens, a balanced budget that includes the school budget, the county tax, state tax levies, cost of living, and guess the rise in fuel costs and insurance rates for both employees and buildings/vehicles.

I feel I bring to the table a good balance. I am a single low income woman and I want my tax dollars to get more "bang for the buck", especially for children and senior citizens. When I hear that the leased golf course needs a hole alignment, I wonder "aloud", is this more important than childrens programs at the Town Hall?

More people should come to town meetings including council meetings, planning board meetings, budget meetings, etc. My feeling is, don't keep on bitching if you have not come and spoken your piece! You have to realize that the council may not have heard your point of view, and it might change the way some of them vote.

Come to meetings... It is FREE to come & FREE entertainment to benefit both you and your community~

Become involved..... Ask questions!

This is the schedule for upcoming
budget meetings

New Babies

2008-05-18T10:24:00.004-04:00

I wanted to update you on my little Emma...

I took Emma a week ago to Holly's (my friend and breeding co-owner who lives in Arundal) to deliver the pups. We thought she needed to be there for a few days before the deliver to adjust (without me).

Holly called on Thursday night just after 9 pm and said "if you are coming to see the delivery, you better come now"

I called Courtney to come and get Meg (my black lab), threw my overnight bag in the truck, and off I headed on my 2 3/4 hour trip to Arundal.

I was almost there when Holly's husband called me on the cell and said, meet Holly at the vet's! Thank goodness I knew the general vicinity of Dr. Hutchinson, as I had been with Holly a few times when Emma was born.

I walked in at 12 :05 am or so and baby #1 had just been born, but #2 wasn't budging. Emma was soooo excited to see me, that she almost "pooped" the baby #2 out right, then and there.
#3 baby was going to take awhile, so Dr. Doug gave Emma various shots, we wrapped her up in a big blanket, the 2 babies in another and they placed 'em in my arms and off we went to Holly's house (which fortunately is only less than 10 minutes away. I kept thinking, omg, is she going to deliver right in the car???? But I tried to stay calm.. ya right!

When we got back to Taylor Made Yorkies (Holly's) Emma was put in the whelping box with a heat pad for the babies and we waited.... at 1:30am or so, puppy girl #3 started and it was scary. She too didn't want to come out, like girl #1, but when she did, she didn't want to breath regular. Holly, who has delivered LOTS of yorkie pups, knew just what to do! We rubbed, rubbed and rubbed some more on #3, then tossed her around and fed her a special bottle and all of a sudden #3 came around. Now she is one piggiest of the 3 girls :)

Delivering healthy little dogs is more work than you expect!

Emma is doing well as a new mother despite the fact that she is a bit spoiled. After the birth and we tried to go to bed a 3:30 am, Miss Emma was heard to be screaming for me and waking all the other dogs and humans. Finally, I went down and stayed with her to settle her in until almost 5:30 am. Friday night she slept much better.

I took this picture of Emma and her 3 girls later on, but on delivery day....

They are still doing very well, although Emma needs a bath desperately, she wont be getting that until the end of the week. She needs and wants to be with her babies other than to go out for a minute to do her 'business".

It was eventful to watch my little girls birthing process. Kinda scary too!

They all will be coming home to Dexter in a week or so until the new parents pick up the babies. We talk about that at a later date.
Judy

Great Job guys during the rain storm

2008-05-01T18:36:00.002-04:00

Let it rain, let it rain, let it rain...... and it did on Tuesday night!
I went to the Snap of the Dragon at 4:15 pm and the ditches and fields were rising, but within an hour on the way home, drain/ditch water was were starting to edge out into the roadways.
The Abbott Dam and the town dam were flowing with brown crashing cascades of water! All that in an hour.
When I got home, I had the scanner on listening to our highway, facilities and police all talking quickly to the dispatcher. The dispatcher was relaying messages of flooded roadways faster than Officer Emerson could get from one to another.
I heard Highway supervisor Mike Delaware instructing his crew from on flooded out road to another and the Chief radioed in and said he was there to help with his own truck, what could he do?
At one point, the funniest thing said, was Officer Emerson saying to dispatch, "Could you call the DOT boys and ask them if they will come out and play with us tonight?"
Road after road were being closed, barricaded and/or warned about.
With all that said, I just want to say, "great job guys"! I was proud of our Town crews and want to say thanks for a job well done!

Hi I'm back...................

2008-04-29T15:12:00.003-04:00

Over the past few weeks I have been thinking of clever things to say in my blog to get back on track again, but as soon as I get out of bed, come down stairs, my cleverness slips away!
Things like "the long winter is over and with spring comes throwing open the windows and airing out the cobwebs in the home and in the brain".
While laying in bed it was much more eloquent and the words flowed, but there is something about going from horizontal to vertical in the early morning, dogs waiting with legs crossed to get outside, and trying not to fall down the stairs, that make any great thought vacate the brain by the time I hit the bottom step!

So... how about that winter??????? Holy catfish it was long and lots of snow.
Other highlights of my winter, I had the flu for about 3 weeks, (thought I was going to die), my back went out for weeks (wanted to die), and I got the end of the winter blues!!! All that was intermingled with more snow blowing and shoveling than the past 4 years all put together.

Now I think Judy Wilbur Craig is back again with the spring air, flowers and the green grass! Phew, I made it out on the other side, how about you?

Other notes: My little Emma Mae, (Yorkshire Terrier) is expecting and due around the 10th of May. This will be her first litter, so we are very excited.

I was sworn in to the Dexter Town Council in January and that has been busy. The next month or 2 is budget time for the Council so we will be very busy. I encourage citizens to attend the Budget process and see how it is done.

The Green Thumb Society which consists mostly of Darlene and I are readying barrels for Main Street for the end of May.
Last week Darlene and I cleaned the debris from the Dexter perennial gardens, ie: Wayside Park in front of the Gazebo, the Town Office Garden and the Heart Garden in front of the Post Office.
I will write more on that later, but will say, volunteers anyone?

Tourtiere Pie

2008-01-09T18:24:00.000-05:00

Now that the holidays are over, it is time to update my blog.
Christmas was great here on Number 10. My daughters came home for the holidays which makes it perfect.
My girls and I never have much money, but we always buy lots of food and drink and share with family and friends, and this year was no exception.
Tiff and I went to P&L Market on Monday morning and picked up our various meats and other specials, followed by a trip to Buds Shop'n Save for the rest of the holiday ingredients.
They went to East Corinth on Christmas Eve which gave me a chance to start cooking for a family dinner that night and the next day.

While they were gone I made 4 Tourtiere Pies from scratch and what a hit they were with all our guests on Christmas night open house. No need to buy them when they are so easy to make! Get your fresh ground pork and beef at P&L!!! They make it to order while you wait!

Next I started on a "verbal" recipe for lasagna rolls that Holly Clukey Cleary makes, but mined turned into a huge pan of spinach/sausage lasagna with 6 cheeses... YUMMM
My brother and his girlfriend Dianne, his son Jonathan and girlfriend & baby, Jen, Tiff and I mound down on garlic bread, lasagna and cocktails. FUN...

Christmas morning started out whipping up my triple batch of homemade rolls (my brother says it is not a holiday without those), and on to making Balsamic glazed Brussel sprouts with fresh garlic and bacon, basmati rice with goat feta and fresh spinach and almonds, carrot/pineapple salad with raisins. I was just whipping out food with no recipes, only with the Christmas spirit as my guide. Love it when it all comes together. My daughter asked at one point if I felt if I was the Christmas slave? I gave her a resounding NO! I was having fun!!!

People brought all kinds of yummy sweets, so there was no need to make dessert.

OH yeah, and I roasted a 28 pound turkey stuffed with garlic sausage stuffing that I threw out because it was freezer burned and didn't want to serve it. Guess 2 years is too long to keep a turkey in the freezer. Lesson well learned!

Family, neighbors and friends gathered throughout the day on Christmas and Christmas night to eat and drink and be very merry! Wonderful Holiday!!!

Oh yeah, on the way out the door, my brother Steve, Alan and Dianne grab a Tourtiere Pie and a whole pan of rolls and headed across the road with the goodies. They were trying to sneak it by us, but......... That was a good laugh... but was one of things "you had to be there".

Who needs lot of presents when you can share good food, good drink with good friends?
Hope you had a similar Christmas.

#3 Christmas Memory

2007-12-23T10:34:00.000-05:00

Tourtiere Pie: A tradition of French Catholic's is serving Tourtiere Pie on Christmas Eve, or that what I was told.
Although, my family was Baptist, the Wilbur family embraced the practice of Tourtiere Pie as well.
I don't remember that my mother made them, we ordered them at Log Cabin Grocery, who baked LOTS of the delicious pies at Christmas time.
My mom would also make homemade eggnog to serve to guests that dropped by during the Christmas season and laced it with "spirits" that was left in the house over the past year.
She would sit at her spot at the island, and serve one for you and one for me. BUT the one for me was one times the amount of guests. I don't remember my parents drinking much any other time of the year, so it was fun seeing my parents getting in the "spirit". Mostly Mom, but I think Dad had a glass or two :)

If you have more information about the Tourtiere Pie tradition, let me know.

I think I might call Log Cabin Grocery and see if Helen is baking the yummy pies, OR if they are sold out as she did in the past.

#2 Christmas Memory

2007-12-12T09:56:00.000-05:00

Remember when we left the mailman in our rural mailboxes, the bus driver, our teacher etc. boxes of delightful and delicious homemade candies and cookies?

My mother would make candy for days on end and if I was lucky, I got to dip the peanut butter balls into the chocolate. My mouth watering just thinking about the drippings landing on my fingers and when my Mom had her back turned I could lick!!!!

She made all kinds of fudge and other sweet treats, but I have never had anyone else's peanut butter balls that were as good at my mom's.

Can you even leave food in the mailbox anymore or take the bus driver good eats? Times have changed.... but those were very good traditions.
judy

Christmas Memories

2007-12-09T21:58:00.000-05:00

I was just sitting here thinking about childhood Christmas's and about my mother who left me with so many memories. And that made me wonder about other peoples memories.

I help Fred Wintle with ideas for his writings and it got me thinging that as we get older, the most memorable memories that stand out should be shared.

I think over the next few weeks, I would like to share some of mine....... But I would like readers of my blog to share yours as well. Just click on "comment" under my blog and you can write your memories. Short or long, I would love to hear from you.

The first one is of my mother who would cook pecan rolls on Christmas morning for all of our neighbors and closest friends.
After Steve and I had our Christmas stockings, BUT before our Tree, we delivered the holiday rolls to everyone.

Sometimes in the car with Dad driving, but also in our teens, Steve (my brother) and I delivered on our snowmobiles around the neighborhood.

I wonder how the neighbors like those sticky bun treats and how they must miss them once my mom passed away. I don't know if she continued the tradition after Steve and I left home, but I should ask around.

It is a wonderful memory......
judy

Flu Season

2007-12-09T18:31:00.000-05:00

So I am on the end of my second time with the flu in a month, and I am hardly ever sick!!!!!!
Fortunately it is only the 24-hour type, with another day of recovery, but hey, isn't once enough?

I am sick of fever, aching bones and being freezing cold and sweating hot & I am probably blogging because of "fever" overtaking my better sense.

Wish I could take the flu shot, but unfortunately I am now allergic to them, but I hope you all are "flu free" this holiday season!
Be sure to wash your hands after shopping... heheheh

Merry Christmas

Conflict of Interest

2007-11-26T21:06:00.000-05:00

What constitutes “conflict of interest”?

In a small town with only so many people who are willing to serve their community, one could find “conflict of interest” in many areas, if they look hard enough or want to push the issue.

But is it a conflict?

Is it a conflict if you serve on a town board, town council or other town committee and you happen to makes wreaths for the town, fix cars, sell insurance, sell merchandise, create a website, or contract some sort of service?

If you look through the history of Dexter or any other town for that matter, you will find overlapping of such activities. Does that make it a conflict of interest and people are not serving you well?

Should that make civic minded people ineligible for serving their community?

According to the Town Charter in Dexter, ARTICLE IX: GENERAL PROVISIONS/CODE OF ETHICS
The charter reads as follows:

Section 9.01. Personal financial interests
Any town (officer) Councilor, Board Member or employee who has a conflict of interest, or a financial interest, direct or indirect or by reason of ownership of stock in any corporation, in any contract with the town or in the sale of any land, material, supplies or services to the town or to a contractor supplying the town shall make known that interest and shall refrain from voting upon or otherwise participating in his capacity as a town (officer) Councilor, Board Member or employee in the making of such sale or in the making or performance of such contract. Any town (officer) Councilor, Board Member or employee who willfully conceals such a financial interest or willfully violates the requirements of this section shall be guilty of malfeasance in office or position and shall forfeit his office or position. Violation of this section with the knowledge express or implied of the person or corporation contracting with or making a sale to the town shall render the contract or sale voidable by the town manager or the town council.

I am making this point because I was informed by someone (after the election) that it would be a “conflict of interest” to continue my job as web designer for the Town of Dexter that I have been doing since 1997, (with no complaints) and also be on the Town Council, and we needed to talk about it.
If I would be forced to give up the website (DexterMaine.org), it would be like cutting off an extension of myself as well as making it a financial burden.

Five years ago when papers were taken out by current council member Dean Thompson on my behalf, I was concerned that my position on the Development Corp. or my job as web designer would be in jeopardy.
Former town manager Bob Simpson researched and found that Dexter Regional Development Corporation was not an issue due to it being a separate entity and not part of town government.
He also assured me that he found that it was not a conflict for me to continue with the website as long as I did not vote on my yearly pay during budget time or keep it a secret.

Upon the evidence found, I made the commitment to run for Town Council and sat on the council for 3 years, and I did refrain from voting when it seemed to be a conflict, as other council members continue to do.

So I ask you, is it a conflict of interest that the candidate you chose to represent you on the Town Council or people that serve you on other boards, be ineligible to provide products or services for the town? And if I am ineligible, are all the other people who provide services also banned from serving their community?

I hope that the people that are serving you are capable and honest human beings and will abstain from voting on issues if they feel that it will be a “conflict of interest”.

Please let me know your thoughts.
Thanks,
Judy

Saying of the Day

2007-11-16T08:26:00.000-05:00

By William F. Scolavino

The height of your accomplishments will equal the depth of your convictions.

Also at the Nov Council meeting

2007-11-15T10:57:00.000-05:00

... also at the Nov. 8th Council meeting was a presentation by new Code Enforcement Officer Jana Wood about how things can be misinterpreted in the Land Use Ordinance and maybe it should be revisited and clarified in writing.

At the end of the presentation, she suggested that this go to the Planning Board for further action and recommendations. The planning Board meeting is tonight, Thursday November 15th at 6:30 pm.

Dana Wilbur with his handy dandy camera recorded the presentation and I am sharing it for you to see. It is a very important issue for the future.

November Council Meeting

2007-11-13T16:44:00.000-05:00

The November Council meeting was held on Thursday the 8th with a very good crowd in attendance.

The evening started with a Retirement Reception for Cemetery Sexton of 17 years Maurice Neal and his wife Corinne. They were presented with tokens of appreciation in the presence of their children and a cake was served. GREAT JOB Maurice! We will miss you and the wonderful job you have done. The Dexter Cemeteries are known as some of the best kept in the State of Maine and you will be missed!

One of the topics brought up was a proposal to buy Holiday flags (signs) with lots of lights for just over $300 a piece. They would have been hung on the light posts on Main Street. Now, I am not Grinch, but with the times as they are, many of us thought that the $2000 plus to purchase the first installment of 'flags' taken from the Reserve account, is kind of hasty. These flags would NOT replace the wreaths that are purchased out of the $1000 holiday decoration fund, but be in ADDITION to.

The council did vote 4 to 3 to not purchase them this year; but with that said, I found out after from a reliable source, that the 'flags' are 4 foot long "metal" signs and if hung on our decorative light poles and a strong wind blows, it could potentially take down the pole, the wreaths and the new 'flags' due to the almost 200 pounds that they weigh. (or all that 2 men could do to take out of the box)
I wish that would have been brought up during the discussion.

I know that a few people thought that $2000 wasn't a lot of money to spend on Christmas, but with oil prices the way they are, I am afraid we may need Reserve Accounts to pick up the slack on other things. I would like to point out as well, that our Main Street business do a great job decorating their store fronts and our Main Street always looks festive for the holidays.

Dexter Regional Development Corporation is sponsoring the Holiday Light Contest again this year and last year most of the businesses and offices (including the Town Office girls) submitted entries in the contest.

The next Town Council meeting is being held on December 13th (the 2nd Thursday of the month) and hope that residents will attend.
Thanks.. those are my thoughts........
Please comment if you agree OR disagree......
Judy

To see pictures taken during 2007 Council meetings taken by Dana Wilbur, click here

Saying of the Day

2007-11-13T16:39:00.000-05:00

I love this saying of the day by American Writer Leo C. Rosten (1908-1977). It is my phlosophy and how I try to lead my life. If everyone can try, it would be a better place!

I think the purpose of life is to be useful, to be responsible, to be honorable, to be compassionate.
It is, after all, to matter: to count, to stand for something, to have made some difference that you lived at all.

Greenhouse Seminar

2007-11-09T19:59:00.000-05:00

Darlene and I went to a wonderful seminar on Thursday which was title; The Sustainable Greenhouse: Producing Crops while saving Energy, sponsored by the University of Maine Cooperative Extension.

It was held at Longfellow's Greenhouses in Manchester Maine and all I can say is holy hanna, what a wonderful place. There were greenhouse after greenhouse filled with Poinsettia after Poinsettia after Poinsettia, more than 60 cultivars on display. Huge Christmas displays in the main store and lots of house plants.

The greenhouses can make grown women weep with envy!

Back to the seminar..... We learned the potential for organic greenhouse production in Maine; an overview of energy alternatives for greenhouses; and the best was a panel discussion on alternative fuels for Maine Greenhouses.
Lisa Turner from Laughing Stock Farm in report talked about her experience on heating with recycled commercial cooking oil and Mary Lou Hoskins of Greencare in Bangor/Exeter on heating her greenhouse with a corn furnace.

Both women and their husbands (not there) are great examples of growing green. They explained the daily principals and the working day of using these alternative heating and both said they would not do it any other way.

After a tour of Longfellow's, free buffet lunch we sat in the huge middle greenhouse for the next segment called Energy Conservation, Things every greenhouse grown can do now, by John Bartok, Professor Emeritus of the University of Connecticut.

John's practical tips were things you could do everyday to converse energy in greenhouses, but could be applicable in everyday life.
John also did a comparison of fuel costs; Fuel oil, waste oil, natural gas, coals, softwoods, hardwoods, chips, corn biofuels/vegetable oil and electric. Interestingly did you know that #2 oil runs hotter than kerosene to get to the same temperature or that wood pellets and corn are the most burner efficient?

All in all, on the way home, Darlene and I started plotted on how to better heat her greenhouses at the Snap of the Dragon (but on a budget)... I am getting a smaller greenhouse and can institute the same principals only a smaller scale and to fit my personal use.

There were a few other displays Tuesday, one of which was SARE, a sustainable agriculture research & education program that I think may be beneficial to farmers in our area. I want to do more research on that, but I think the Green Thumb Society could take advantage of some grants that could benefit the community.

My message today is, if you see a class by the University of Maine Cooperative Extension, please take advantage of these great programs. They are free a lot of time and you learn a wealth of information and sometimes even get a free lunch.....

Election Results

2007-11-07T08:32:00.001-05:00

Good morning....
I am very please with the huge turnout of voters on a non-presidential year. On a rainy day, 754 voters turned out at the poll or submitted absentee ballots, which show a growing public interest.

I am also please that I will have the opportunity to act upon the concerns that employees and taxpayers have expressed at recent Council meetings.

I want to encourage Residents of Dexter to continue attending the monthly Council meetings. The public attendance has grown each month since June of 2007, which shows that people are becoming more educated in how their town government operates.

Although I will not be sworn in until January 2008, I encourage residents to contact me with any questions, concerns and thoughts they may have at 924.3067 or judy@DexterMaine.com.

The results went as follows with voters choosing three (3) Councilors for three year term:

CRAIG, Judith W. - 414 (won)
HASKELL, Peter A. - 348
MUNDAY, Ella L. - 203
SHERBURNE, Erlfred W. - 456 (won)
TEMPESTA, Albert C. - 290
THOMPSON, Dean R. - 391 (won)

Thanks to those who have and are supporting me. PLEASE, just because the elections are over, don't stop coming to the council meetings, calling with concerns and asking questions.
C ya Thursday night

Did you vote today?

2007-11-06T14:34:00.000-05:00

Courtney and I went and voted at lunch time and it was nice to see so many cars parked in front and on the sides of the Town Hall!
We were greeted at the door by the Tri-County Tech Center law enforcement class (not sure of the correct name) with teacher Steve Spaulding.

They were giving directions on where to vote, showing off the renovated Town Hall and operating the new elevator! Funny about the elevator, I think it makes a total of "3" elevators now in Dexter..... hehehe

Any whoooo.... We went upstairs and voted.... I spoke with Town Clerk Shelly Watson who said the turnout today, despite the rain and not being a presidential year, that it was a 'very good' year so far.

So, if you haven't gone to the polls yet, please go before 8 pm tonight!

Election this Tuesday

2007-11-04T20:00:00.000-05:00

Elections are coming in a few days and I hope you take the opportunity to exercise your right to be heard and VOTE.

If you are not registered, please stop by the town office and take the plunge!
It doesn't hurt, it doesn't cost anything AND it gives you the right to bitch and complain later because you voted! You can also register at the polls.

I, as many others, hate it when people moan and groan that they don't like what is
going on, where their tax dollars are spent what laws are being passed, etc..... and they don't bother to vote.

With that said; if you are from the Dexter area, you know that the Town Council race is quite unusual with 6 candidates running for 3 seats.

While I respect many of our current council members, I and others feel that there needs to be some changes in the Town of Dexter. Running for council this time isn't as easy as it sounds. There are a few people (who I won't name), that I have admired for my whole life, and now they won't speak to me. I have to admit that hurts, but I have to remember, they don't know the "whole" story, only one side of it.

On the other hand, thank-you to all the people that have called, emailed and even written to me thanking me for taking a stand!

Reading Letters to Editor in local papers that "may or may not" be directed at a few of us running, makes 'me' wonder if I am doing the right thing?

* Am I really seeing the inconsistencies that I think I see?

* Do I believe what the employees have been telling me for almost 2 years that cause concern?

* Is money being spent where it should be spent?

* Are the Elected Officials you voted for running our town or is someone else?

I ask myself these and other questions daily, making sure I am true to myself & my beliefs, and when I can answer all those questions I come to the same conclusion; I AM doing the right thing. Especially when I see valued sick employees terminated, others resigning so they won't be terminated and others miserable going to work. Please ask any employee their thoughts and feelings about the current situation and form your own opinion.

Ask yourself, why is it that the current council (not all, but many) can't see these inconsistency's. Or maybe, they are NOT being told the whole truth! ?

We asked the public to come to council meetings after the June 2007 meeting and at that time only a handful of people attended. Now there is standing room only! We want to thank the citizens of Dexter for becoming involved. Each meeting since brings more people and at the last meeting in October there were close to 70. I hope that this trend continues in the future.

I am voting on Tuesday and I can say on my own blog that I am voting for myself, Judith W. Craig, Al Tempesta and Fred Sherburne.

But PLEASE vote on Tuesday, whether you agree with me or not.

Micro Chipping your pet

2007-11-02T22:11:00.001-04:00

Saturday update: Adoption Plus sponsored a great program on Saturday that Courtney and I decided was a great preventative idea for our beloved dogs.

We got our dogs Emma (6 pound Yorkie) and Snowflake in the Wind "Flakey" (106 pound White German Sheppard) micro chipped in hopes that if they become lost or worse (stolen), we will have a easier time in locating them.
If you have pets it might be something you want to consider.

The cost was $35 and it took only a few minutes to do and with only one painful yip from both Emma and Flakey. There is paperwork to fill out (at home) and send in to the American Kennel Club, and then your pet is good to go. Most Veterinarians, animal control officers, and people like the Pet Motel in Corinna, have the wand to recongize and read the chip from then on.

For me, it is worth the money. I had one Yorkshire Terrier stolen from my yard 5 years ago, so it is a little more "insurance" for me.

Call Dexter's Animal Control Officer Kathie Ricker or Dr. Rick Dubois at Dexter Vet Clinic for more information. Or you can call me 924.3067

Extended Fall

2007-10-28T13:51:00.000-04:00

Amazing weather we are having in October..... I still have morning glories & cathedral bells blossoming outside and zucchini's still in the garden.

I still have LOTS of plants still out on the deck that I need to bring in the house, but many have grown so large I am not sure where to put them IN the house.

I have been offered a greenhouse by Al Ross that I am planning to put up, but with the cost of fuel, how to keep it warm through the winter is another matter.
Anyone have any tried and true ideas?

I always hate when the fall cold sets in. My deck is an extension of my living space and I love it out there, but I don't like the cold much anymore.

It just seems such a pity to dump out all those beautiful annuals and the many variety of geraniums I have collected over the years.
I guess I will squeeze in as many as I can and weed out when I get sick of picking up dead leaves and watering for hours.

I now understand why seniors like to migrate to warmer climates when the colder weather sets in. I am spoiled now that I work from my home office and don't need to go out in the winter weather each morning to go to work. So I shouldn't complain, should I?

Well enough procrastination, back to clipping back plants and find places to put them in the front room, window stills or the spare bedroom.
C ya!

Saying of the Day

2007-10-23T09:05:00.000-04:00

Tis the business of little minds to shrink,
but he whose heart is firm,
and whose conscience approves his conduct, will pursue his principles unto death.
by Thomas Paine (1737-1809) British-American Writer

Candidate's Night

2007-10-18T10:22:00.000-04:00

A ritual of running for an office was held last night, "Candidate's Night", hosted by Abbott Memorial Library and moderated by Gerry Rudmin.

There was a good turn out in the audience, probably many more than normal, and good questions were asked by the audience after each candidate introduced and told a bit about themselves.

Topics ranged from the Union Contract, to the boat ramp, the no confidence petition, bomb scares, how much the town manager should tell the council, the Town Hall/rec department, water levels of Lake Wassookeag...

This was my introduction:

Hi, I am Judy Wilbur Craig (Judith W. Craig on the ballot) and I am running for Dexter Town Council, which I was a member of 2 years ago.

My family and I have proudly lived in Dexter on the Number 10 Road since the end of the Civil War in 1865 and most of my family has been self employed and involved in our community for as long.

I worked at WDME Radio for almost 14 years as a Sales Manager, Station Manager and talk show host. Upon leaving WDME, I created my own business, Judy Craig Consulting web design.

In my job, I work with many other self-employed people when starting their own businesses. I create and maintain business websites; including a hospital, nonprofit organizations, real estate companies and towns including Greenville & Dexter. So I feel that I have a good grasp of the current local business climate.

Currently I am President the Dexter Regional Development Corporation and Coordinator of Wild West Weekend.
I was an original member of the steering committee for the Pine Tree Zone representing Dexter.
I am also an Officer & Media Correspondent of the North Country Riding Club and Co-founder of the Green Thumb Society.

I volunteer as a Public Announcer at the NCRC Horse Shows, Garland Days - Horse Shows and 11 years at the Pittsfield Egg Festival.

I decided to run for Council again, because I am not comfortable with the way town business is currently being conducted; the treatment of sick employees, excessive use of executive sessions and closed door policies.

While I know that everyone has the right to their own opinion, those opinions should be well thought out and informed when expressing & acting on them in public. That is why I and many others are now attending meetings and asking questions, to become informed.
I feel that with my background, I can effectively serve as a Town Councilor for the residents of Dexter with an open mind and open door policy.

If elected I promise to be the voice for the citizens of Dexter and advocate for you on local issues, concerns and needs of the community.
Thank you

Filming at the Brewster Inn

2007-10-16T17:21:00.000-04:00

Good news for Dexter~
The filming at the Brewster Inn today by HGTV's "If Walls Could Talk" crew went great! The crew of 3 were so nice and professional, but extremely friendly.
Courtney and I went and took pictures of the crew with Mark and Judith.

I called the 3 news stations and Channel 2 and Channel 5 film guys came and filmed the HGTV film crew interviewing Judith and Mark.
Diana Bowley from the Bangor Daily News and Fran Emmons from the Observer will both have features in their papers this week as well.

Mark & Judith did a wonderful job promoting not just the Brewster Inn, but also the Town of Dexter!

To see the pictures we took yesterday while cleaning and today while filming, go to http://picasaweb.google.com/judywilburcraig/BrewsterInnInDexterMaine

I would like to thank some people for helping yesterday at the Brewster Inn.
LOTS of thanks to Carmen Nelson & Jeannie of Spring Street Greenhouse who filled their van and arrived with both fresh flowers and plants, but also beautiful fall wreaths and swags. They spent several hours and did a great job putting on the final touches to create a wonderful warm ambiance.

Thanks also to Renys for donating pumpkins and chrysanthemums for the front steps of the Brewster.

AND the cleaning crew: Courtney Brown, Barb O'Brien, Barb Leighton and her mom Maddie, Diane Fillmore, and Dave Pearson who brought by some of his own homegrown pumpkins.

Be sure to watch both channel 2 and 5 tonight (Tuesday) on the evening news; they are both airing on the news tonight. The HGTV's "If Walls Could Talk" will be airing in the spring of 2008.

Judy

Community Concert at Wayside Park

2007-10-10T21:03:00.000-04:00

I have been on a learning quest!
Technology is moving so fast, that sometimes we have to take some time and just explore the new possiblities that we have at hand. AND FREE ones at that.
I just uploaded a movie my Dad took during a Wayside Park Concert in June 2007.
This is the test..... Enjoy
judy

Great Family Fun in Dexter

2007-10-09T16:28:00.000-04:00

The Dexter Recreation Department is pleased to announce that Roller Skating begins Saturday, October 13th, 2007. Come by the Town Hall on Hall Street from 2 pm to 4 pm every Saturday for the next 6 months and have great family fun of all ages.

If you have your own skates, feel free to bring them, including regulation Inline Skates, Roller Blades (not the sneaker type with the drop down wheels); limit sizes are available at the Roller Skating Rink.

Volunteers are needed to help run the concession stand, handing out skates etc, so if you could donate some time call Andy at 924-3438 for more information.
Fee is only $1 for admission and $1 for skate fee.

If you have some skates hanging around and would like to donate them, they could use all sizes. Call Andy at 924.3438 or Eric Munday at 692.2342.

Happy Halloween

2007-10-09T16:20:00.000-04:00

It is finally fall in Dexter! It is also Halloween month.
Be sure to stop by the Dragons Den Halloween Haunt every Friday and Saturday this month.

Greenville's Seaplane Fly Inn

2007-10-07T21:53:00.000-04:00

I have discovered YouTube and have fallen in love with the information, creativeness, and now thinking about ways to use it to promote Dexter and/or my clients businesses.

This is a video I found about Greenville's Annual Seaplane Fly Inn filmed for bangormetro.com.

Check it out and enjoy!

Singing Emma

2007-10-07T11:54:00.000-04:00

Emma singing me a tune.

Emma is now 10 1/2 months old and is a happy puppy!
She has quite a sense of humor and was singing to me is only a voice a yorkie has. She sings about as good as I do, but it still is music to my ears :)

Town Council Meeting

2007-10-04T18:45:00.000-04:00

I would like to remind you that there is a town council meeting on Thursday, October 11th at 7 pm.
If you are interested in your community, please make an effort to attend Council meetings.
Knowledge is strength!
The agenda is at http://www.dextermaine.org/council/agendas/101107.pdf

A blast for the past

2007-10-04T09:48:00.000-04:00

I got a call today from Sheila Grant and she said I had to go to YouTube to see a movie of WDME from 1990.
As many of you know, I worked there for a lot of years, so it was great to see a movie!
WDME Radio's home was in an am track train car, bought by Fred Hirsch in the early 80's, and is now owned by Steven King with it's studio in Bangor.
Mark Young who joined the WDME family a year before me in the mid 80's is still working there today!
Check out the video! It is a hoot!

Another great saying...

2007-09-28T08:52:00.001-04:00

Perseverance is a great element of success.
If you only knock long enough at the gate, you are sure to wake up somebody.
-- Longfellow

November Election

2007-09-25T10:48:00.000-04:00

Yes, I am running for Town Council (again). I took some time off from my last stint sitting on the Council Board, but feel it is time to get back on the horse again.
The people running in Dexter are as follows:

The following individuals will be on the ballot:
TOWN COUNCIL: (Three positions for 3-Year terms):
Judith W. Craig
Diana L. Fillmore (withdrawn)
Peter A. Haskell
Ella L. Munday
Erlfred W. Sherburne
Albert C. Tempesta
Dean R. Thompson.
Council Terms expiring are: Fred Banks, Fred Sherburne and Dean Thompson
Because Councilors can only serve 2 consecutive three-year terms, Fred Banks is not able to run this year. Fred Sherburne and Dean Thompson are seeking re-election to their seats.

SAD #46: (One position for 2-Year term). This position is to fill the un-expired term of Richard A. McInnis who resigned for health reasons:
Patricia M. Smith
SAD #46: (One position for 3-Year term). This position is to fill
the seat vacated by Shawn Lancaster last March (whose term would have expires in 2007). Jill Jones has filled that un-expired term until this election:
There were no papers filed to fill that position.

DEXTER UTILITY DISTRICT: (Two positions for 3-Year terms):
Robert E. Crawford
Hartland L. Cushman
Francis L. Kaufman
The terms on the Utility District Trustees which are expiring are Bob Crawford and Harland Cushman who are seeking re-election to their seats.

All elections in Dexter will now be held at the Town Hall.

Please find out what candidate best represents your thoughts, ideas & community and please Vote in November!

Town Council Minutes from August

2007-09-20T10:57:00.000-04:00

Morning;
I am providing a link to the Town of Dexter's Council meeting minutes, but would like make my own amendment to the minutes during Public Forum. I know mistakes can be made, it is only human, but once they are approved by the council, they can not be altered.

So here goes, during the meeting, which was only 4 days after Wild West, no mentioned was made about Wild West Weekend and how successful it was. So I wanted to publicly thank Highway Department Mike Delaware, Police Chief Art Roy AND facilities Duke Leighton. Another person was named, but I didn't thank that person:, but Duke needs to be thank too!

I am not trying to be finicky, but I definitely want Duke recognized.

Click here for the August 09th Council Minutes. To read about public forum, scroll down through. It is near the end of the minutes.
Have a great day!
Judy

Fall Flowers

2007-09-19T16:55:00.000-04:00

Last night, Darlene and I decorated the Main Street and the Heart Garden for fall.
Last Thursday we ordered 20 pots of hardy chrysanthemums from Roger at Spring Street Greenhouse.

Roger gave us a great price on these hardy mums and they should make Main Street more festive for the next month or so, or until frost hits.
We probably could have used more, but I thought that would do a good enough job. This money does come from the Flower Fund ($1500 for the year, July 2007 to June 2008) from the town budget and we have to save most of it for next spring. We try to make the money stretch as much as possible, we only pay for some product, but all the labor is free.
We ordered new planter earlier this year, so they will be filled next spring.

Once we got started planting, we realized we needed water, so I made an emergency 'water call' to Dad and Marilyn and they brought down 26 gallon jugs in the trunk of the car, and saved the day!

We also filled the bench pots with mums, which we built last year. I hope people sit on the benches and enjoy our pretty Main Street and the fall flowers.

It is wonderful seeing so many people decorate their businesses and home for all the seasons. Fall is one of my favorite times of the year, although I really dread the winter months and no outdoor flowers. But it gives us more time to pour over the flower/seed books and plan & plot for the next planting season.

Feel free to dump some water on the posies if you see them dry!

Submitted to TheDailyME

2007-09-19T11:18:00.000-04:00

"It's amazing how much panic one honest man can spread among a multitude
of hypocrites." -Thomas Sowell

Support Appreciated

2007-09-19T10:38:00.000-04:00

Since my last post, I have received numerous emails, phone calls and stopping in the street encouragement.

When we take a stand, it is putting yourselves in a precarious position. You know you are doing the right thing, but you know people are going to talk. It is very uncomfortable, BUT if you stick to honesty, facts and figures, TRUTH WILL PREVAIL.

If we all stand together, the impact with make our town officials take notice. PLEASE contact your councilors, come to meetings, talk to employees. We only want what is right for our community. We aren't trying to make trouble, we are just trying to do the right thing.

Thank you all for your support.
Judy

Thought of the Day

2007-09-17T07:40:00.000-04:00

Courage is the greatest of all the virtues.
Because if you haven't courage, you may not have an opportunity to use any of the others.

-- Samuel Johnson (1709-1784) English Author

Community Involvement

2007-09-14T15:35:00.000-04:00

Isn't it funny how a saying comes to you at the appropriate time? I found this saying recently and it inspired me to write this letter.

“Decide on what you think is right, and stick to it.” by George Eliot (1819-1880) English Novelist

I will start out by saying, like many other locals, I love my community of Dexter. My family of many generations have lived, worked and believed in our community and have been involved with other 'like minded people' in making Dexter a better place to live, work and raise our families.

My daughters are now grown and are creating their own stamp in life, so it is my time to give back to my community. Sometimes it is very consuming, but at the end of the day, I am rewarded by seeing flowers growing in town, successful horse shows, my work with Dexter Reg. Development Corporation, successful Wild West Weekends and even Easter Hat Parades with glowing children's faces.

I feel that our town has always been compassionate and value our Town Employees. I have consistently been attending meetings expressing my concern about the employees, who through no fault of their own when reporting they are very sick, were terminated or are currently being terminated from their jobs. OR they resigned so they don't have to go through the embarrassment.

While I am uncomfortable in taking such a public stand, I felt it was time to get out of my comfort zone, and do something about it!

I am not pleased with the way some of the top town officials are conducting town business. I respectfully ask the questions, why is everything such a secret & behind closed doors, gag orders given or done in executive session? (Not just the employees' situation). Why are there double answers; depending who is asking the question, or no answers at all?

While I know that everyone has the right to their own opinion, those opinions should be well thought out and informed when expressing them in public. That is why I and many others now attend meetings and are asking questions, to become informed.

Last Thursday, September 13th, during a lengthy monthly Town Council meeting, the Public Forum took place. There were many people in the audience and we had lots of questions to ask. We sat through a long discussion one gentleman had, but then in a blink, the public forum was closed and Executive Session was announced.

We all sat there in disbelief. The public forum never really was official closed as far as we could tell. It appeared to most of us it ended by the Council Chair saying, "Is that it?” We thought he was addressing the person in the audience who had been speaking.

I would like to ask or maybe even challenge you, Dexter Residents and taxpayers to come to Council meetings. Call your councilors, ask question and demand answers. Find out for yourself what the mystery is. After all, it is our tax dollars being spent by our Council, who we voted for, and our Town Manager, who works for the Council and us.

Are you ready to come out of your comfort zone?

Join us the 2nd Thursday of the month, 7 pm at the Dexter Town Council Chambers for the monthly meetings.

Respectfully,
Judy

Thanks

2007-08-14T10:13:00.000-04:00

Dexter Regional Development Corporation would like to thank the businesses, residents and visitors for making the 5th Annual Wild West Weekend a great success.

Although we had some extreme heat on Friday (110 degrees was 1 reading at about 1:30 pm on Friday where the vendors were set up), and the extreme storm Friday night dictated that we cancel Renys Debbie Myers Concert, the Worst Boot Contest and the Fire Department auction, all the others events went on without a hitch.

But the Friday night rain and storm cleared the air, the streets, the heat and moods for a wonderful Saturday and Sunday.

Boy Scout doughboys sold out, Field Hockey Maine Chicken BBQ sold out for the 1st setting and had to go buy more chicken, Toot’s Deli had a record day, Bangor Savings Costume Contest had 21 contestants, 14 Businesses participated in DRDC’s Business Decorating Contest, lots of kids at Varney Insurance Kiddie Parade, huge turnout for the NCRC Horse Show on Sunday, record amount of vendors, 614 kids registered in the P&L Pig Scramble, great turnout for Maine Choice Realty Skillet Toss & First Free Baptist Wild West Olympics; over 300 tickets sold for the 1st Annual MaineMilitary.com Heritage Revolver Raffle, 300 tickets sold for the Dexter Fire Department Duckie Race, great attendance for the Cruz’ In and Ray Stafford Show, no lack of ‘good ole’ Country Music’ during Jim’s Jamboree at Wayside Park; 94 attended the Christian Community Church Sunday Service at Wayside Park and the Christian Community Church Chicken Pie Supper at American Legion Hall sold out.

The Dragon Den’s 1st Annual Stick Pony Rodeo was well attended despite the heat, and Country Charm’s 1st Annual Wheel Barrow Race was a hoot as was Crazy Bob’s Hot Dog Eating Contest.

DRDC would like to thank Mike Snow of Snows Saw Shop for providing the Husqvarna HUV that transported Princess Tired Eyes, Cowgirl Courtney Brown, Announcer Fred Wintle, Vendor Wranglers Dave Pearson & Josh Doore from one part of town to the other; moving concert trailers, finding lost people and giving rides to people (and kids) who needed rides.

Big thanks go out to Sherburne Farms and Ronnie of Simpson View Farms for the generous donation of 100’s of bales of hay to decorate the streets; Darlene at the Dragons Den & Snap of the Dragon for Wild West signs, props, flowers and lots of hard work.

Chris Reardon of Save Virtues also deserves thanks for the donation of beverages & snacks for WWW headquarters; Rich DeMuth for the use of his building for headquarters; Barb & Sherman Leighton for watching over headquarters; Frankie Spizuoco & family for providing Poop Patrol; and all the horse and riders who road downtown despite the heat.

Patti Dowse & Bits provided horse and cart rides and Lisa & steed gave horse rides for 2 full days! Thanks to Skowhegan Savings for their support and Liz at Abbot Memorial Library.

Special thanks also go out to Mike Delaware & Duke Leighton from the Highway Department and Police Chief Art Roy & his officers for their support during the weekend, moving barriers, controlling traffic, and all without incident. Chief Roy also arranged for the Penobscot Sheriff Department to provide a demonstration by the Departments Bomb Detection Dog "Eric" with handler Deputy Sheriff Jim Roy during Wild West Weekend.

This 5th Annual event was made possible by the people & businesses who participate, a little or a lot! Dexter Regional Development Corporation wants to thank you for helping us “Unite Family and Community, now and in the Future”.

Judy Wilbur Craig
President of Dexter Regional Development Corporation
Coordinator of Wild West Weekend

Whirl Wind of Activity

2007-07-25T09:12:00.000-04:00

My home/office is a whirlwind of activity as Wild West Weekend approaches. We are only a week and 1/2 away and details, details, details have to be attended to.
Monday night Darlene and I hits the streets and started decorating at P&L Market promoting the Pig Scramble and Bob's Variety promoting the 2nd Annual Hot Dog eating contest.

Once done there, we went to the Fossa Building (DRDC's new main street entity) and starting covering the windows with information.
I haven't written backwards since I was in High School! It isn't as easy as it looks:)
In fact, try writing backwards and spell right at the same time. Brought a lot of laughs when we went outside and started reading......

Last night, we had a special DRDC meeting at the DeMuth Building where we are setting up WWW Headquarters. Dave Pearson and Darlene "wrote" all over the windows there doing a great job!!!
We have lots of new exciting things for Wild West this year: Maine Military Revolver Raffle, DRHS Field Hockey Maine Chicken BBQ, DRHS Music Boosters Horse Shoe Tournament, Worst Boot Contest, Stick Pony Rodeo, Baby Picture Contest, to name a few.
Also something new, Ray Stafford Show is performing during the Cruz In Saturday night.

And something to remember; all these people who either sponsor contests or perform are all doing it for free!!!!! Amazing isn't it?
Stop by our website at WildWestWeekend.com for times, locations, etc. We are updating many times a day, right up until the event.

Well signing off..... Hope to see you at the Egg Festival this week. Stop by and say hi or a wave; I am the announcer and in the Main Office at Manson Park during the Kiwanis Karnaval.

Flowers and stuff

2007-07-22T14:45:00.000-04:00

Thought I would give you an update on the downtown Dexter flowers.
You may see my Dad (Dana) and Marilyn in the evenings on Main Street watering the 14 flower barrels, 8 pots that are on the benches and the Town Office Gardens. They fill their old white car trunk with milk jugs and start at one end of the street and end up on the other.
They refill the jugs every so often with the hose by the Town Office.... PHEW! they do a great job! If you are ever down there, stop by and lend a hand.
Darlene and I loaded up our pickups at the Snap of the Dragon on the Dexter/Corinna Road and went to work on the Main Street flowers for almost 4 hours last night. We went thru and dead headed, replanted some, snipped and fertilized.
When we planted everything in May, we tried using new and different things, BUT the big thing is drought tolerant plants. Those barrels on the hot top just suck up any moisture and need more water than you can image. Last year we tried a new thing by putting "pampers" in the bottom of the barrels..... The baby diapers are designed to retain water, so it seemed a logical plan. Actually worked pretty good, but watering is still an almost daily project.

After Darlene and I finished Main Street, he headed our (2) pickups down to Wayside Park. Wayside is such a nice park. The stream is babbling in the background, the Gazebo is so nice, the magical Covered Bridge and of course those nice tables that Mike and the highway department built a few winters ago. If you haven't stop down there for a concert in the park or during Wild West, pack a picnic and a game and stop and and enjoy.

So anyway, Darlene and I cut back the Bleeding Heart and put in a bunch of annuals Darlene donated from her nursery Snap of the Dragon. By the way, all this work is done for free!
The town supplies us with $1500 for the year for supplies, (most of which we don't use, except this year.... I got 15 new barrels for next year and that took a big hunk out of the budget)
All the free labor is a labor of love for our community.
I hope you enjoy the new flowers, and if you ever have a chance or have time and would do some watering, please (did I say please?) give me a call at 924.3067.
C ya during Wild West Weekend!!!!

North Country Riding Club

2007-07-18T14:36:00.000-04:00

Have you ever been to a horse show?
Well if you have and miss it, or always wanted to, please stop by on Sunday, August 5th for our largest show of the season, the Wild West Weekend Equitation Show!
This season, we are seeing an amazing number of riders/horses and an amazing increase in talent, especially with the younger riders.
The June show had over 60 registered riders if I remember right, but the July show brought approx. 70 registered riders/horses. HOLY HANNA!
Long day, but what a nice show.

So stop on by and see up...... and it is free for the spectators!!! the day starts out at 8:30 am with a terrific version of the Star Spangle Banner by brother/sister duo Thomas and Crystal Clukey playing their trumpets..... Brings tears to your eyes!

There will be food available and some vendors to shop! The western classes will be in the morning this show with English in the afternoon.

Stop by our NCRC website to see pictures of past shows and past years.
Judy: NCRC Media Correspondent

Busy Summer

2007-07-18T13:48:00.000-04:00

Sorry it is taking so long to write, but things have been wicked busy.
Wild West Weekend is only 2½ weeks away and so many things to do!
I am so impressed with the ideas that people have!

New this year is WWW Horseshoe Tournament sponsored by the Dexter Regional Music Boosters. It will be held on Saturday, Aug. 04th.
Lots of music is lined up for Wayside Park on both Friday and Saturday thanks to Jim and Donna Lee Palmer and LOTS of musicians playing for free! Donna Lee is amazing. She schedules all these musicians over the 2 day period and that is no easy feat. Bring your lawnchair down to Wayside and enjoy some great entertainment.

Debbie Myers will be performing again on Renys Concert Stage on Friday night from 6 to 9 pm, with the 5th Annual Costume Contest being held right before at 5 pm.

There is a slight change on Main Street closings which cause some realignment of activities and placement of vendors/displays, but a compromise was met and on we go. (check out the website for actual times).

Not new, but bigger is the car show on Saturday night. There are many car groups being invited (they expect over 100 if the weather is good) and awards will be presented that night, instead of at the Egg Festival as in the past, appropriate music will be playing and food vendors still open.

Speaking of the Egg Festival, it is the weekend before Wild West. Stop by and say hi! I am the announcer/go to person in the office at Manson Park on Wednesday thru Saturday. Lots of fun!

Back to Wild West: The firemen are still having their auction, First Free Baptist Church is still hosting the Wild West Olympics down at Wayside in front of Chia Apartments, P&L Market Pig Scramble, Maine Choice Realty Skillet Toss, Varney Agency Kiddie Parade on Friday, Ride In to Dexter Health Care, 2 different scavenger hunts and on and on......

I would like to personally invite you to Wild West Weekend on August 3rd, 4th, 5th for a fun filled weekend with something for everyone, including an amazing array of food. Not only can you grab a bite to eat at the Vendors at Vendor Alley on Lower Main Street, but also many of our local eatery's have "Wild West" specials.
Please check out our website as we add things daily and I will try to journal my journey for the next few weeks.
Maybe if I do that, I can keep myself more organized...... one can only hope!!!!

Yoga

2007-06-07T13:56:00.000-04:00

I have finally succumb to my daughter Jennifer's urging to try Yoga!
I think I was always afraid, that being a "big girl" that I wouldn't be able to bend like a pretzel and make a fool of myself.

Well, guess what? It is not like that at all!

Courtney and I had our first private lesson with Yoga Instructor Donna Kraft-Smith on Monday. She gently and in her quiet voice took us through the safe way of warming up and explained the philosophy of yoga. "Enrichment of body, mind and spirit"

Courtney and I, who work in front of computers hour after hour, felt AND HEARD popping, snapping and then relaxing of our bones and muscles. It was like the pressure of the day exiting our bodies.

After almost an hour of "poses", we couldn't believe an hour had passed and can't wait for next week.

So, when Court and I got back to the office, we gleefully called Jennifer to tell her our our accomplishment! Of course, she was thrilled, but probably more pleased that she WAS RIGHT!
We can't wait for Monday now..... Of course it is now time to go and pick up the yoga mat and stretchy but not bulky clothes.

We will keep you posted on our yoga journey, AND fyi there will be no pictures to post of our adventure!
Judy & Courtney, the jcc girls

Kitchen Update

2007-05-29T18:18:00.000-04:00

The kitchen is almost complete! At least done enough for a party!!!
Jennifer, oldest daughter now living Manhattan, came home for the first time in 5 months. She of course has seen pictures of the kitchen work in progress, but seemed impressed with her mother and sisters handwork in person.
So a BBQ was hosted Thursday with family from both or all sides of our family (Wilbur's & Craig's), some new friends, old friends and great food!
Did I mention in the past that we all cook? The 3 of us all have worked in the food industry all our lives, so......

Tiffany cooked most of the BBQ starting on Wednesday night when she cut 8 or 10 whole chickens in 1/2, de-boned them and made a couple of different rubs to marinate in overnight and put a big pot of bake beans in the cast iron dutch oven to cook over night.

Jennifer peeled a ton of 'tators for salad, while planning the rest of the menu. Lists were made of food to buy and things to do…. and cleaning and more cleaning was done Wednesday night and Thursday morning.

We also made Portabella mushrooms with homemade Garlic Sausage (from P&L Market), Brochette, fresh veggie platter,cheese and crackers, homemade dips, etc for Hors d'Oeurves, Rizotto salad with fiddle heads, coleslaw, and a big 'ole bucket of drinks.
I had picked up a new power washer Tuesday (yippee) from Snow's Saw Shop (1500 psi) and the girls set out cleaning the deck and power washing. Of course for Courtney (my unofficial 3rd daughter) and I had to work in the office thru most of the cleaning, but by the time they got done, the deck and lawn area looked great and we got a lot of work done in the office 

The girls set up tables on the lawn "Martha Stewart a la Dexter" style, with 2 saw horses and a heavy wood door. We had a smaller door that was transformed into the buffet table and chairs were set out for outside dining. Jen went down to my Dad's to pick some fresh rhubarb for cobbler (her sister made) and Dad picked some awesome apple blossoms for our tables. We serve the Hors d’Oeurves on the deck and food on the lawn.

Well anyway, it was a nice time and to get back to the kitchen, when night fall was descending we all gathered around the new island in the new red kitchen to tell tales and such.

It was a great way to break in the new digs, with great food, even better company and my girls home together!

Harry Hog & Birds

2007-05-20T11:01:00.000-04:00

I have a new visitor/resident in my backyard. Harry, a cute little ground hog.
In all the years I have lived here, I don't recall a ground hog in my backyard, although my Dad down the hill has had his share. Harry seems to like being looked at. He watches me as I watch him out my office window.

Okay, so your thinking, ground hogs are not very good to have around, especially when you have gardens. True, but I can't quite picture myself getting out the shotgun and ....... So the next best thing right now is enjoy the cute little creature. When my gardens are all dug up this summer, I may have to rethink the situation.

Also new to the neighborhood this week, Red Breasted Grosbeaks. I have had lots of grosbeaks, but these are so pretty. The boys that is. The girls are the same size, brown in color, like so many of the other bird species; the ladies are dull colored and the men get all the brilliant colors. Have you ever wondered why in the human world, it is just the opposite???

Speaking of birds, my daughter Tiffany has focused her carpentry interests (evening hours) into building bird unique houses. She has been Googling bird houses, sizes, types, what birds are looking for etc.
Another good resource is www.DIYnetwork.com for birdhouse projects and gardening projects.

This bird house is her first prototype which I am keeping. Simple and straight forward with a removable bottom for cleaning after each season.

Each birdhouse has a different look and with each one built they get more elaborate. She is building them with scrap wood left over from her day job and whatever she can scare up from my various wood piles. They are very CUTE!
Stop by the Snap of the Dragon www.SnapOfTheDragon.com (see post below) where she is selling her birdhouses and other wooden products we are working on. (Limited quantities at this time :)

New Nursery

2007-05-16T15:50:00.000-04:00

On Sunday, I worked at my friends new nursery (flower that is)! Darlene of the Dragon's Den has now opened "Snap of the Dragon, a dream we began talking about last spring/summer.
Darlene and I are part of the Green Thumb Society for the past few years, doing the flowers on Dexter's Main Street, and gardens.

Last year in the spring we poured over flower magazines, online website and even Ebay for new and different flowers and plants for downtown barrels and now she has put that energy into her new nursery.

If you know Darlene, you know she is ingenious when it comes to 'budget on a shoestring'! This woman can and does make great things out of what others throw away. That is one of the things I admire about her the most, other than her incredible work ethic. She never stops, like the energizer bunny! She was recycling before it was cool. This is the queen of recycling!!!! Her husband Greg, friend Jen and others have worked on creating a great family Greenhouse that has the usual fare of spring plants, perennials, culinary and medicinal herbs, Native Maine Flowers and next year plans even more.

So, on Sunday Mothers Day, I got to help with her opening, and also work in the Greenhouse. Now, if any of you have the "greenthumb bug", you will understand the immense joy I got in doing that!
The smell of damp potting soil, the heat of the greenhouse with the sun beating down on the plastic warming all those little plants that started as a seed such a short time ago and now are in various stages of growth.

I got to be creative with some plantings, repotting, and various other things, but the day just went by too fast.

It is fun to watch Darlene give the customers, browsers and visitors the "tour" from greenhouse to greenhouse and patch of plants to the next hanging basket. She isn't one for saying much about herself, but I can see the pride in her face.

So if you are on the Dexter Road in Corinna, stop by and say hi to Darlene at the new Snap of the Dragon at the Dragons Den.

Her hours are:
Monday through Friday 9 am to 5 pm
Saturday and Sunday 8 am to 5 pm

I have her website up and going at www.SnapOfTheDragon.com
Judy

Proud Daughter

2007-05-09T21:23:00.000-04:00

Tonight my daughter Tiffany and I went to the Annual Wassookeag Snowmobile Club Landowner Appreciation Dinner.
The dinner was held at the new Lido's Restaurant (formerly TJ's) and it was a full house. President John Fogerty opened the festivities with awards, one of which was Landowner of the Year.

(Picture: Secretary Lynn McKusick, Dana Wilbur, President John Fogarty)

Hence "proud daughter"! My Dad, Dana Wilbur, was honored tonight with the distinction of being the 1st to be bestowed with this title. Dad, not only donated the land upon which the Clubhouse sits, but he has supported the club since its origin.
Back in the 1960's Dad built one of the first drags out of 2x4's and hauling it behind my mother's old Ski Doo Bombardier. Some of you might remember that sled was a 'heavy' double track "tank". Slow ... steady ... stable..... Hardly ever went off the trail but when it did, it was hell getting it out!!!
Dad would go out during the day and drag the local trails, long before anyone ever heard of "groomers" for a more pleasant ride. Remember those trails in the old days? So bumpy it would either put your back out or put it back in again!

Pictured: Frank Spizuoco, Business of the Year; Ray Bailey; Volunteer of the Year; Dana Wilbur, Land ower of the Year

Snowmobiling was something I think back on with fond memories. Many of my parents friends reminisce to this day about the night sled parties that always seemed to end up at our house on Number 10, with my mother (Mackie) serving up Oyster Stew. This kept me in babysitting jobs back than, because all the adults were out sledding.

Dad doesn't snowmobile anymore, although I think there is still a skeleton of a sled and old tracks around the farm somewhere.
Dad is more the "mountain bike" type now (really) at the age of 83.
Speaking of which, Up North Magazine just did a great feature of him in this months issue. Great magazine!!!!! and great article....
So, all in all, it was a proud evening with Dad receiving his "Landowner of the Year" award. Thanks Wassookeag Snowmobile Club for recognizing my Dad!

Wild West Weekend

2007-05-09T10:44:00.000-04:00

Dexter Regional Development Corporation is pleased to announce the 2007 date for the 5th Annual Wild West Weekend as being the first weekend of August which falls on August 3rd, 4th and 5th.

DRDC held the first official WWW meeting on Tuesday, May 01st, 7 pm at the Brewster Inn to share ideas and suggestions. There were 23 people from the community as well as DRDC members who attended. There would have been more, but many contacted me who were either sick, on vacation or at other meetings. So I was happy with the attendance.

New Brewster Inn owners Mark & Judith Stephens, also new members of DRDC, are excited to get involved in our community, generously offered to host this public meeting and future wild west meetings.

There were lots of new and creative ideas for 2007 tossed around and DRDC hopes that you will be brainstorming with your staff, club members, etc to create great ideas.

Please let me know what your plans are to make your business, club, church or home "wildly" stand out. Also, please invite your business neighbors to participate. I have created an emailing list, but may not have everyones email address, so let me know if you want to be added to the Wild West email list.

Wild West Weekend has fast become an economic boost for area businesses, helped with fund raising, creating awareness for non-profits, and showcasing our variety of vendors.

We have been receiving calls from vendors, musicians and event planners since the end of last year and Q106.5 FM is booked for their annual live broadcast in 2007. So grab your partna' and join us at our next meeting (TBA) at the Brewster Inn.

If you would like more information, contact us anytime.

DRDC President Judy Wilbur Craig
judy@DexterMaine.com
Wild West Weekend Coordinator
(207) 924-3067

Apple Pruning Seminar

2007-05-08T12:08:00.000-04:00

Courtney and I went to a great demonstration a week ago Saturday (April 28th) at Olmsted Orchard on Route 15 in Charleston. (By the way, Courtney works with me designing websites, but has become part of the family).

I have old trees in my yard that I remember as a child helping my Grandfather Homer Wilbur and great Uncle Mel, graft and prune. I want to bring those old trees back, so Courtney (who is always up for learning something new) decided to head on over to the free demo put on by the University of Maine Cooperative Extension.

I thought there might be a dozen or so people there, but it turn out to be close to 40 or more.

Donna Lamb opened with Fertilize and Feed, Sprays and treatments and things like that. After about a 1/2 hour of great info, free donuts and coffee, we headed out into the orchard with Mr. Olmsted.

That man is a wealth of info. We covered what to prune, when to prune, how much to prune, what to prune with and on and on.....
The seminar last a couple hours but it was well worth it.

If you would like a copy of the email with info from the Olmsted's, just ask and I can send it along to you. Email judy@DexterMaine.com

Okay.. I lied.....

2007-05-08T11:17:00.000-04:00

Yup, I said a couple of months ago I was going to be more diligent in blogging, but alas, I lied.
After reading my daughters blog today, I am ashamed. She does a great job and it is so interesting..... As does Holly with her Taylor Made Yorkies blog.
So hear goes, I am going to attempt it again.

A lot is happening lately and for the past month, my youngest daughter Tiffany and I have be renovating our kitchen. She is staying with me during the week, but is working with her Dad during the day doing carpentry in the area. But at night we have torn my kitchen apart!!! (she goes home to Portland on the weekends to see her friends, her "Little Sister" Maria and probably take a break from me :)

It all started with, a faucet needed to be replace. Next thing I knew, the 28 year old wallpaper was off the walls and holes being cut in the walls.
All the cupboard doors & drawers were taken off (her grandfather, Cleo Craig, custom built them when we built the house 28 years ago. Tiffany then sanded them down to fresh wood and put new varnish on! WOW

Then came the creativity. I watch HGTV, DIY and all those home improvement shows religiously. SOOOOOOO, of course we had to use tile, accent tile, kewl lights and paint, etc.

We installed new track lighting with pendant lights hanging over the island and no one got shocked in the process!
I choose a Tamale Red paint for the walls... that was a big bold choice, but now I am totally please with the outcome.
Home Depot opened their arms for us on a Thursday evening! We arrived with our wish list, dimensions, and questions from the helpful crew, and proceeded to load the cart with 12 X 12 tile, accent tiles, pendant lights, under counter tube lighting, grout, sandpaper, well you get the picture....
But of course I also bought lots of stuff from our own local stores, Tillson True Value and Dexter Lumber. We are on a tight budget and did a lot of comparison shopping and local was very competitive. Mostly we got things in Bangor that were not available in Dexter (more variety).

Of course, we forgot some of the most important part of the track lighting, so Courtney and I made a mad dash to Home Depot again on Sunday to get that piece and pick up more "stuff". When we got home Tiff has a assembly line of doors and drawers in the yard, sanding and varnishing.

So now going on the 4th week of working nights and weekends on this project, we can see the end of the tunnel. There is still lots more to do, LOTS of dust to clean, and baskets and cookware to find homes for. But thats another story.

It is amazing what a couple of women can do, when you put your mind to it!! "Woman Power" Plus, it is satisfying to be doing it with my daughter! Projects like this can make or break a mother/daughter relationship and thank goodness it worked out for the best :)

Local native weaves stories about growing up in Dexter

2007-02-04T19:01:00.000-05:00

I am please to announce that my long time friend Fred Wintle has published a new book "When Weavers Wove". Short Stories of a Small New England Mill Town

Fred's introduction to his book is as follows:
This story begins on Lower Spring Street at the house where I grew up with four sisters and a younger brother in the fifties. The essence of the book really begins with the reader standing on the knoll in the hollow behind Poirier’s Market and Field’s Garage, which are both situated on Spring Street. I invite you to stroll with me through the streets of a small Maine Mill Town.

When Weavers Wove is the story of every small town New England family who lived during the tumultuous transition from Industrial Age to baby boomers of the sixties and seventies and the loss of their innocence. It is an embellished view written by a fifth generation Yankee blessed with the gift of knowing people and capturing their stories from the 19th, 20th, and 21st century.

When Weavers Wove is a collection of short stories written to capture the taste, smell, sounds, and realities of a by gone era. An era that looms large in our memories. An era which, in no small way, still longs for its innocence. When Weavers Wove is by and large a work of nonfiction written as a stroll through Dexter, Maine, a small New England Mill town, which typifies the birth and end of the Industrial Age.

Fred will be having a book signing during Dexter's Winter Festival at the Historical Society Gift Shop on Church Street on Saturday Feb. 17th 10 to 2. Fred will be reading from his book at the top of the hour during his book signing. There will only be a limited amount of 1st Edition books on hand, so get there early.
Another Dexter 'boy' will also be on hand that day, Artist Mark Robichaud will be displaying his art at the museum.

Local boys showing what great talent we have in Dexter!

Saying of the Day

2007-02-03T09:07:00.000-05:00

While watching a Kleenex commercial, the punch line was "Tears don't compromise my strengths"..
I could go into a long dissertation about "tears & women", but I will make it short. Do you find yourself being very passionate about something and it brings you to the "watering of the eye" at times you wish it wouldn't. IE: speaking at meetings for me :)

I have found that those menopausal moments to be maddening, but I try to remember that I have no control over those leaky eyes, it is just the sign of the times.

Many men seem to take it as a weakness, but we women know it is just passion in what we believe in!
So, when I saw that commercial, it was an 'a ha' moment.
Hence, "Tears don't compromise my strengths" is my new favorite saying.....
Have a nice day,
Judy

Emma Update

2007-01-23T09:29:00.000-05:00

Emma is now 9 1/2 weeks old and 3 lbs.
She has taken over the house in the week and a 1/2 she has been home and is definitely Princess Miss Emma Mae.
Her favorite cat Sassy allows her to crawl all over her and even lets her bite her tail, but the other animals are tolerating her energy. Sassy just pulls her along behind her.
My other pets are on the "senior" side of life, so they look at Emma and seem to say, 'can we take the battery out of the energizer dog?' It is a hoot!
She has brought new energy and laughter to our home!
Judy

Holiday Lights & Traditions

2006-12-19T11:27:00.000-05:00

Take a moment during this busy time of the year and take a ride around Dexter and other communities as part of your holiday tradition and enjoy the holiday lights.
People take a lot of time, effort and pride to put up decorations for all of us to enjoy!
My dog Meg and I go out many evenings a week for a short "Light Ride". Too bad there isn't a little bit of snow for the lights to reflect on.
As a kid, I remember my parents taking my brother Steve and me out for the "lights ride" and back then we didn't have all the blow ups and blinkers, but it was still memorable and time spent with our parents.

Speaking of traditions, it brings to mind my mother (Mackie)carring out the tradition of making all kinds of candy; the yummy peanut butter balls, homemade fudges, cookies, etc. After the threats were done, we went and delivered to all the people who worked for my parents in the summer at Lake Shore Lunch. These special people included (but not limited to) close friends, the bus driver, postman and neighbors to deliver these special treats.

As my brother and I got older one of us had to dress up as Santa to make these deliveries. Neither of us really appreciated that tradition at the time, but now I look back on those memories as treasured ones.
Christmas morning, after we opened our stockings, we delivered hot homemade walnut breakfast sticky buns to all our neighbors, which came fresh from the oven! First we delivered by car with my Dad driving, and then later, as Steve and I got older, we went by snowmobile and once I even did by horseback.

These are just a few of the traditions I remember growing up! Please share yours……
Merry Christmas

Emma Update

2006-12-07T17:48:00.000-05:00

My little girl turned 3 weeks old today and weighs just over a pound. Her little rash is clearing up from the scratch she got from her brother and sisters.
Holly took this picture for me yesterday and surprise emailed it to me. Put a smile on my face, and you can never guess what my new desktop photo is. My horse Dexter would probably be jealous, but as you pet owners know, there can never be too many pets!!!
WELL, there can be, but we choose not to think about it that way :)
Hope you and your pets have a Wonderful Holiday pre-season....
Judy & Emma

New York Thanksgiving

2006-12-01T19:04:00.000-05:00

Well I have finally visited the Big Apple!!! My oldest daughter Jennifer is now living in Brooklyn and working in Manhattan, so Tiffany, my youngest daughter and I took a road trip and the 3 of us had a New York Thanksgiving.
I had a lot of firsts while there.... The subway, crowded Food Co Ops, parking garages, haggling with street vendors, walking across the Brooklyn Bridge, traffic beyond belief, and more, but it was an experience I will never forget.

Some of the things that surprised me is how helpful & nice people were!!! If we were looking at the subway maps, people would come over and ask if we needed help. We even had a lady in a car next to us at a huge intersection, put her window down and ask if we need direction. That was the topper! Another surprise, I was under the impression that subways were dirty and dangerous. You couldn't prove it by me. All the ones we were on were clean, friendly and fairly easy to navigate.

Jen took us out on Friday to "get our feet wet" and on Saturday, Tiffany and I made our way from Brooklyn to Manhattan and beyond. We walked more than I have walked in years, but it was worth it. We saw everything from Chinatown, Soho, Tribeca, Central Park (walked across from the West Side to the East), and went to the Museum of Modern Art. It was kinda late by that time, so we decided not to pay $20 for only a hour, so we will put that on the To Do list for another time. I also wanted to go to the Twin Tower memorial, but ran out of time.

I did find that things were very expensive, but you could find good deals too! I am not much of a shopper, but enjoyed window shopping and the street fare.
I also got to meet a client Emily Pearlman who I have been working with for many years, but only had know each other through email and phone calls. Her studio (EPPottery.com) is in Tribeca, which Tiffany and I found, and had a great visit and lunch. It was great to put a face to her name.

Our trip home was LONGGGGGGGG........ we got caught up on Holiday Traffic and we went about 30 miles and it took 3 hours! So our 5 1/2 hour trip down (in the night) took almost 8 plus hours to get home. Portland that is....
Overall, the trip was awesome!!!!! But it was good to get home. My pets were happy to see me too :)

I also got to see my new puppy Emma at Holly's, who lives in Arundel, 2 times. Once on the way down and once on the way back! She is so cute and sooooo little. Can't wait to bring her home in January. Guess that's another trip to Arudel. YIPEE, the country girl heading to southern Maine AGAIN!
FYI: Emma's eyes are open at 2 weeks old (yesterday)
Check out Holly's website and see more pictures of the 2 litters of puppies.

New Member of family

2006-11-17T11:38:00.000-05:00

Small things in our lives become a big part of our future. Yesterday morning a "small thing" was born at 3 am and will become part of my family and weighs only 5 ounces.
Meg, my lab, the cats, my horse Dexter and I have a new Yorkshire Terrier puppy. Yes, I love my pets.
Holly Gilbert Cleary, origionally from Dexter, saw my Yorkie I used to have years ago and just had to have a lovey like Mick. So she found Kelsey and from there added more Yorkies to her family. Well to make a long story short, one of her little girls, Liberty had 4 babies yesterday and I get one :) You can see her webpage at TaylorMadeYorkies.com
I am very excited, but of course it will be a 9 week wait to bring my bundle of joy home.

VOTE

2006-11-06T15:09:00.000-05:00

Tuesday, November 7th is your time to have a say in the way our town/country is run. Take the opportunity and VOTE!
Although you and I may have different views and opinions on issues, candidates and policies, we all can still vote our own opinions.
I have to say this year, I find it hard to choose a gubernatorial candidate that I can endorse.

I do oppose Tabor, but I agree something has to be done. After sitting on the Town Council for 3 years and pruning the budget until we had to finally grab the hatchet (during the Palesky times), the council cut the budget until it almost bled. That was almost 3 years ago. I feel that the majority of small town municipalities are very mindful about their respective budgets. In my opinion, the problem for small towns are the mandated "state" expenses that are put at our small town feet.
I admire Mary Adams tenacity and feel she is trying to look out for us, but I am sure that budget cuts would affect Recreation for kids & Elderly Programs. (they were things we had to consider)
Remember, town budgets consists NOT only of services provided, but static things.....
IE: Heating Oil, Electricity, Water, Insurances, Wages, State mandated, school budgets and the list goes on. Add to that police, fire, highway, office staff and the expenses that go along with those departments and not to be able to budget properly would be a shame.
In the Town of Dexter, you can always find out what is spent on what and bring it up at any Town Council meeting during the Public forum.
So please, whether or not you agree with me, exercise your right to VOTE!

Local Authors, poets and more

2006-10-24T13:34:00.000-04:00

I have had a column on TheDailyME.com for years called FeaturesME. We have very talented people in our midst that don't have an forum for their works, so I am pleased provide that space.

One of our local popular authors is Dexter native Fred Wintle who I (we) have encourage to put his short stories to print. His first published work is "When Weavers Wove, Short Stories of a Small Maine Mill Town" to be in print in November. It will be available locally and a great stocking stuffer.
I will let you know when and where as soon as it is available.

Readers are commenting....

2006-10-24T13:31:00.000-04:00

I receive many very nice emails from people from all over the country. This is one that I received recently.

Thanks for all the fall foliage photos showing the beauty of Maine at this time of year.

Great reminders of my youth growing up in Guilford many, many years ago.

Bob Bishop

Austin, Texas

Good Quotes to live by...

2006-10-24T11:14:00.000-04:00

If you read TheDailyME.com you know I use a saying of the day. This one today is particularly good for me to think about and I wanted to share.

Be of good cheer. Do not think of today's failures, but of the success that may come tomorrow.
You have set yourselves a difficult task, but you will succeed if you persevere; and you will find a joy in overcoming obstacles.

-- Helen Keller (1880-1968) American Writer

Green Thumb fall update

2006-10-23T17:53:00.000-04:00

We had a challenging summer growing flowers on Main Street, between lots of rain this spring and the hot top drying the planters quickly. We tried using new and different flowers in the barrel plants this year. One of which was Lime Light 4 o'clocks which worked well until the hot sun didn't get them time enough to bloom during the day. We also put in Bicoppa, Purple Stuff (my own named plant), the daisy looking plants (Darlene is better with remembering the names than me), needlepoint ivy (that got lost in the barrels) and the Tobacco plant. There were various other ones, but those were the main ones. In the Bench Planters, we planted with all herbs: Anise Hyssop, Basil Red Rubin and green Basil, Chives and thyme all of which smelled Divine and wanted me to go home and make pasta or pizza when I smelled them.

My Dad, Dana Wilbur, (age 84) and his life partner Marilyn Scribner, diligently went to town with 20+ gallons of water in their trunk to water the barrels, the herbs, the cannon out on Dam Street many times a week. Mark Bellaire also watered in the mornings, plus some of the store owners and town office ladies poured even more water on... And still the flowers got wilted at times.
If anyone knows of plants that are extreme heat and drought resistant, please let me know.
The Highway Dept. guys picked all the barrels and benches up from Main Street last week and they are now wintering at my house so that hopefully we can get a better jump on them in the spring.
I wish we had a little greenhouse here on Number 10 to winter some of these plants, but maybe when I win the megabucks...??!!!!!

Keepin' up with the news

2006-10-22T22:30:00.000-04:00

Soooo..... I started this blog months ago, but didn't do much with it.
Since I suggested to my daughter, who recently moved to New York, that she should start a Blog to chronicle her new life experiences, I am shamed into "do as I say and do as I do"......
I hope that you will learn to interact as well in this new forum.

Green Thumb Society

2006-05-05T13:47:00.000-04:00

We started the non-profit flower club a few years ago to help keep the costs down to the taxpayer, yet beautifying our community. We had hoped to have more formal meetings, speakers, etc. in addition to planting and caring for the town flowers and gardens, but although a great thought, it didn't come to fruition. The town gardens, barrels ended up taking a lot more time then anticipated. BUT, we still enjoy the labor of love.

In March 2006, Steve Craig built a temporary greenhouse for us to start seedlings. Darlene Bagley and I also (in March) ordered from a couple companies online some different type flowers and we picked up a bunch locally. I think now, I wish we had ordered in January or February and planted in February/March, but we are learning.

The town highway guys delivered the Main Street Flowers barrels to my house where we will be filling them sometime around the end of May.
We added to Main Street, 4 new sitting benches with flower buckets for downtown shoppers and gawkers :) We planted those with aromatic herbs. S. Craig & I built them, but if would like to donate $$$ for this project is would be great! He built them for free, but I would like to be able to buy the supplies.
We also are in need of perennials. So if you are thinning out your gardens, give me a call. Plants such as hostas, bleeding heart, kewl stuff...

And lastly, would you like to get your fingernails dirty? We are alway looking for "like minded flower lovers" to help plant, weed, WATER, etc. You do not have to have any flower knowlege, just the desire. BUT if you do have something to share, we are always looking to mind meld we others. Knowledge is FLOWER POWER! 924-3067

Wild West Weekend

2006-04-30T15:06:00.000-04:00

The 5th Annual Wild West Weekend is coming up August 3rd, 4th, 5th, 2007. The 4th annal was bigger and better than ever!!!
We have signed up many of the vendors from this year who want to participate in 2007 it was so successful.
Let us know what you are thinking about Wild West Weekend! It is a year round planning adventure and I hope to have input from Dexter and surrounding towns who would like to participate.

TheDailyME.com blog

2006-04-29T22:06:00.000-04:00

I hope this will take the place of the guestbook which has been overrun with spammers, but also create a space to talk about local topics you are concerned about.
I would like to share some of the things I do in my community, I hope that you will too!
Lets get blogging...