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First Congregational Church in Kennebunkport to Celebrate 280th Anniversary
Come celebrate 280 years with two events! Members of the First Congregational Church of Kennebunkport and their minister, Rev. Derek White, are pleased to announce they will hold a lobster roll luncheon with strawberry shortcake for desert on Sat., Aug. 14th from 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m., or until sold out. This event is part of the church's 280th anniversary celebrating the proud history of First Congregational as the oldest church in town, having been founded in 1730. The original building was burned to the ground, but rebuilt in 1789. A gallery of pictures, photos, and artifacts depicting the history of the church and Kennebunkport over 280 years will be on exhibit at the church for the public to view.
The second event will take place the following Sunday, Aug. 22nd at the 9 a.m. service. There will be a dedication of a new plaque with the names of all the previous ministers of the church. Special music will be included as part of the ceremony.
First Congregational Church located at 141 North St., is three miles north of Dock Square, Kennebunkport, where Arundel Rd. and Log Cabin Rd. converge. The church will be on the right from this direction. The church may also be reached via US Route 1 and then 3.95 miles on Log Cabin Rd. The church will be on the left from this direction.
For more information, you may call the church office (207) 967-3897. The church's website is www.firstchurchkennebunkport.com.
Photo capton: First Congregational Church in Kennebunkport (www.firstchurchkennebunkport.com photo)
Wells Resident Mary Jordan to Compete in World Equestrian Games
Mary Jordan and her horse, Paxton Abbey, will represent the United States in the 2010 World Equestrian Games in Lexington, Ky.
The Para-Dressage competition for the Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games begins Oct. 5. Riders will compete on a world-stage in front of international judges, following FEI rules, and top international competition in the Covered Arena.
The Individual Team Test begins Oct. 5 and riders will compete with their horses for six days ending with the Individual Freestyle Test Oct. 10.
Jordan earned a spot on the national team at a competition in Wayne, Ill. This is the first time in the Games' history that para-riders, those with disabilities, will compete in their own category at the international event, according to Jessica Corcoran, assistant account executive with Rx Mosaic Health of New York.
Jordan has relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis.
"It's a dream of a lifetime," Jordan said in a telephone interview from her home in Wells, of making Team USA for the competition. "It's always been a dream of mine to ride for my country."
"I'm so looking forward to the opportunity," Ms Jordan, the only New England rider to make the team, said. "It's just an incredible honor."
"For me this journey started more than a year ago and it has spanned two continents, two coastlines, multiple horses, multiple languages, a new car engine, transmission and many miles by moped, truck, trailer and plane not to mention all kinds of weather," Jordan said.
"It is not often as a rider that you get this type of opportunity and it is not often as a Multiple Sclerosis patient you even dream of this opportunity of riding at an international level," she said. "Lastly, it certainly is not often that you get to ride the horse that was born in your lap, at the World Games."
She said the inclusion of the para-rider category is "a historic event" for those with disabilities who love the sport and competing in it. She said this is "really catching on in the United States."
In order to gain enough competitive points to make the trials in Wayne, Ms. Jordan and Paxton Abbey had to travel extensively to take part in meets.
"I've lived in my car the last three months," Ms. Jordan said, noting she had taken part in competitions in Lexington and Toronto, Ontario, Canada, and Wayne.
She also took part in the European Championships after going through what she described as a "three-week boot camp" in Holland, riding a borrowed German stallion. This was possible, she said, because of friends and family in Europe.
During all this travel, training and competing she was able to continue her job as a representative of the Pennfield Corp. of Lancaster County, Pa., working with farms in New England and New York state.
"I love what I do and I do what I love," Ms. Jordan said.
And all the time she was continuing her regimen to keep her MS at bay. She was originally diagnosed in 2002 and, she said, has thus far been relapse free.
She works out, keeps active and continues her drug therapy with daily shots of Copaxone. Ms Jordan said there are several different drugs for battling MS but "Copaxone works really, really well for me."
"I do not take my health for granted," she said. "I work very hard at it."
The competition Ms. Jordan and Paxton Abbey face takes place in a 20 by 60-meter area. The initial event requires movements from memory by horse and rider at specific spots in the arena requiring harmony between rider and mount.
"It is sometimes a lot like ballet," she said. "It is time consuming to train for it."
Next is the individual class test that requires "more difficult maneuvers," she said, and finally there is the musical freestyle, much like the free program in figure skating once the required figures are complete.
Ms Jordan was familiar with MS before she was diagnosed since she is the third member of her family to suffer from the disease. He father, a quadriplegic, was diagnosed before the current treatments were available. Her older sister Mary was quickly treated and is active today.
"There is no cure," Ms Jordan said in a previous interview, but treatment and drugs "do an amazing job of halting the progression of the disease."
At that time she said people "get shell shocked" when they are told they have MS and immediately picture themselves in a wheelchair. "That's not today's reality," she said.
Ms Jordan's riding career includes a national equestrian reserve championship and three national year-end awards from the United States Eventing Association.
Paxton Abbey was named the 2007 Horse of the Year by the United States Eventing Association, in competition with all horses nationally at the training level of competition.
Jordan was in the barn when Paxton was born and it was a good thing.
The foal was born in the sac in which horses are delivered but the sac failed to tear. Jordan said there was a 100-pound foal in a big gooey bubble.
Acting quickly, Jordan tore open the sack "and there she was and she wasn't breathing," she explained. Jordan cleared Paxton's nostrils and breathing began. "There she was right in my lap."
They've been together ever since.
Photo caption: Wells Resident Mary Jordan and her horse, Paxton Abbey, will compete in the World Equestrian Games this year. (Courtesy photo)
Kittery Estates Hosts Special Supper Buffet
By Candi Enman
Kittery Estates was the place to be for dinner on Thursday, July 15th as residents of the State Road independent senior living community and their invited guests were treated to a very special supper. The event was the result of a Creative Buffet Workshop, one of two held each year for residents of the local community, which is part of the Holiday Retirement system of all-inclusive senior living facilities.
Under the direction of Regional Chef Chris Lyons, Kittery Estates' resident chef, Christopher Kennard, together with his staff and four other visiting corporate chefs created an eight table buffet that filled the facility's atrium. The bountiful display featured regional favorites and Italian-inspired recipes, all made from scratch.
"We use fresh, locally grown and harvested foods to prepare the recipes," said Richmond, VA-based Chef Lyons. The smorgasbord included locally caught, hand-picked steamed Prince Edward Island mussels and fresh haddock skewers, a pasta station with handmade linguine served with Roasted Tomato Marinara sauce, as well as Chicken Parmigiana and a crusty lobster-topped Bruschetta. Locally grown corn on the cob, fruit and cheese platters and salads were prepared with fresh produce from Kittery's Golden Harvest market.
Holiday Retirement Divisional Chef, George Merritz, explained that the Creative Buffet Workshops and scratch-based cooking programs are unique to their company. Every year one Holiday Retirement regional chef, along with one chef from each region, travel to Hyde Park, New York to attend a cooking program at The Culinary Institute of America. Working with professors in the prestigious cooking school's kitchens, the chefs learn cooking styles and recipes that they then bring back to share with other corporate chefs as a workshop. "Our program is the only out there and we're very proud of that," said Merritz.
With little room left, most of the 150 plus residents and guests who filled the dining room made their way back to the buffet tables for a big finish. Desserts included Fresh Berry Shooters, a delectable concoction of mascarpone cheese layered with fresh blueberries and raspberries, along with Lindt® chocolate truffles and homemade Sweet Potato Pie.
The residents of Kittery Estates were the real beneficiaries of the chef's training and the workshop. "I ate too much," said 94-year old Barbara Millar, who sold her Portsmouth home and moved to Kittery Estates in just June of last year. Millar not only delighted in the evening's dinner, she went on to say how she enjoys her new carefree lifestyle. "It's wonderful not to have to cook or do dishes. I now spend my days relaxing or doing activities I like, and there's always someone friendly to talk to here."
Photo caption: Chef Christopher Kennard serves resident Frank Putnam a Fresh Berry Shooter dessert and server Lola Johnson helps Frank juggle everything. (Courtesy photo)
South Berwick Resident Awarded for Engineering Expertise
SOUTH BERWICK /
Jon R. Cavallo, P.E., who serves as Paint Engineer for the Maine Center for Creativity's "Art All Around" project in Portland Harbor, has been honored with a prestigious international award for engineering expertise.
Cavallo, a South Berwick resident who is known worldwide in his field, recently received the Award of Merit and accompanying title of fellow from the ASTM International Committee D33 on Protective Coating and Lining Work for Power Generation Facilities. The Award of Merit is the highest organizational recognition for individual contributions to ASTM standards activities.
Cavallo is providing pro bono paint engineering services to MCC's "Art All Around" project (www.mainecenterforcreativity.org), which involves the painting of 16 Sprague oil storage tanks in South Portland. When completed in 2012, it will be the world's largest public art painting, viewed by land, sea and air – even from space.
He recently inspected the second finished oil tank. London-based artist Jaime Gili's bold, colorful design was completed last fall on the first 36-foot tall tank. Professional paint subcontractor AMEX has been enlisted to transfer Gili's artwork onto the Sprague tanks.
Cavallo's expertise in surface preparation, corrosion mitigation and paint adherence will help ensure the project stands the test of time, especially against the often harsh weather conditions in the Northeast.
"Jon is one of the best in the business and we can't thank him enough for the time and expertise that he is donating to this project because it's something we never could have afforded," said Jean Maginnis, MCC's executive director. "He is one of a true all-star collection of experts who have agreed to assist us in this effort and who share our vision of fostering creativity and innovation here in Maine."
Maine Center for Creativity conceived the Art All Around project as an important strategic step in developing Maine's worldwide reputation for creativity and innovation.
MCC is continuing to raise funds for the project through donations from private individuals, corporations and foundations. To date, more than $655,000 has been raised through the hard work of the MCC Board of Directors, she said. Anyone interested in making a contribution to help complete the project is encouraged to send donations to MCC (www.mainecenterforcreativity.org).
Cavallo works as a senior consultant and corporate corrosion and coatings specialist at ENERCON Services Inc. in Tulsa, Okla. He began his career in the U.S. Naval Nuclear Power Program, where he was certified as a nuclear submarine engineering watch supervisor. After leaving the military, he joined Stone & Webster Engineering Corp. and served in several technical engineering and managerial positions. In 1998, he joined Corrosion Control Consultants and Laboratories Inc., where he provided corrosion mitigation professional engineering services in surface preparation, protective coatings and linings. He joined ENERCON in 2009.
Cavallo graduated from Northeastern University in Boston with a degree in engineering technology. He is a registered professional engineer in three states, an SSPC protective coatings specialist, and a NACE International CIP Level III coating inspector with nuclear facilities endorsement.
In addition to ASTM International, he is also a member of the Society for Protective Coatings (SSPC), NACE International, ASME International and the National Society of Professional Engineers.
Photo caption: Jon Cavallo of South Berwick at second completed tank in South Portland. (Courtesy photo)
Kennebunk Savings Donates $80,000 to York County Nonprofits
Kennebunk Savings on July 8 announced that the company is donating $80,000 to York County nonprofits as part of its annual Customer Ballot. For 16 years the Customer Ballot has provided customers with the opportunity to help direct a percentage of the bank's annual charitable giving. This year, customers across the bank's three lines of business participated in record numbers with nearly 10,000 votes cast for more than 200 organizations. Kennebunk Savings Officers are now out personally visiting local nonprofits to deliver checks to the organizations that received votes.
This year, York Hospital received $1,600 as a result of how Kennebunk Savings customers voted in the annual Customer Ballot. "York Hospital is honored to have received so many votes and thankful to Kennebunk Savings for offering its customers an innovative way to make a difference in their community." said Jud Knox, President of York Hospital. "This generous gift will be used immediately to support our efforts to provide exceptional care to our patients and their families." York Hospital, a non-profit healthcare organization with locations in York, Kittery, Wells, South Berwick and Berwick, is currently in the midst of a capital campaign to expand and renovate the Surgery Center, privatize patient rooms and expand Breast Care to include Breast MRI services.
Bradford C. Paige, Kennebunk Savings President and CEO, said, "As part of our commitment to the community we contribute 10% or more of our earnings each year to nonprofits – this year our total contribution is over $500,000. Personally, I truly enjoy this time of year because we know we're donating to organizations our customers tell us they value." Paige added, "We are proud of the impact our Ballot contribution of $80,000 will make for our nonprofit friends. It means a great deal to us to be able to deliver unsolicited checks to so many different organizations throughout York County, knowing that these funds will be put to good use."
All votes cast as part of the Customer Ballot by bank customers – including write-ins – are counted. The more votes cast for a nonprofit, the more money that organization receives. This year, contributions range from $25 to over $7,000 with over twenty organizations receiving a check of $1,000 or more. Since 1994, the bank has contributed over $7 million to the nonprofit community for various programs in five categories: arts and culture, environmental, educational, civic and human needs.
Photo caption: Jud Knox and Sue McDonough accept a "Big Check" for York Hospital from Kennebunk Savings Bank's Brad Paige, President and CEO and Michael Moloney, VP, Branch Manager at York Route 1 Office. (Courtesy photo)
Maine Lakes Experience Early Problems
Several Maine lakes, from York to Aroostook Counties, are turning green this year according to the Maine Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). Reports have come in to DEP about problems ranging from gooey thread-like masses of growth near the shore that typically last a few days, to lake-wide pea-green conditions that last weeks or months.
This excessive growth is an indicator that the water quality of Maine's streams and lakes are in trouble. DEP biologist Roy Bouchard states, "We know that an early thaw and warm water temperatures accelerate lake biology, sometimes to the point where lakes which usually don't bloom have problems. Even shorelines that never had noticeable issues are experiencing sporadic blooms."
"Many lakes showing these problems have been "on the edge" for years," said Bouchard, "the result of development that builds up nutrients and sediment in our lakes. Many lakes have been waiting for the right weather to trigger a bloom, slowly getting worse without any warning until an exceptional year."
"Whether a lake is changing or not, the climate is. The evidence is clear that Maine lakes have as much as two weeks less ice cover than before. Earlier ice out and warmer climate spell trouble for water quality, habitat, and wildlife," according to Bouchard.
"Lakes are fragile, some more than others, but many are changing in unpredictable ways," adds DEP biologist Barb Welch. "Soil erosion is the largest pollutant to impact Maine lakes. We need to stop feeding our lakes a diet high in soil and fertilizer regardless of climate change. The early ice out is showing us sooner which lakes are in trouble. What we do in our back yards does matter."
Soil carries "hitchhiking" pollutants such as phosphorus, spilled oil and gas, fertilizer and pesticides. Phosphorus helps plants grow in the water, turning lakes green with algae blooms.
Simple things can be done like reducing or eliminating fertilizers and weed and bug killers in favor of raising the mower blade to 3" and leaving the clippings, a natural fertilizer, and stopping erosion on roads and driveways throughout lake watersheds. Welch encourages those on private roads to form associations to properly maintain their roads in order to protect their lake from the harmful effects of soil erosion. For more information go to www.MaineDEP.com and click on Camp Road Maintenance.
"We can also help make sure our communities do their share to protect lakes through Shoreland Zoning, good subdivision review, and managing town roads," Welch added. "These are not only smart things to do, but look to our future as well."
York Decorator Show House Features Twin Cottage
The Museums of Old York's 21st Annual Show House opens to the public Saturday.
Twin Cottage at 6 Starboard Lane features more than two-dozen spaces, each decorated by one of the region's interior designers, landscapers and artists.
The house will be open through Aug. 14th on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Thursdays 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Sundays 1 to 4 p.m. The house is closed Tuesdays.
The other of the twin cottages was the museum's Decorator Show House in 2007, according to Scott Stevens, director of Old York.
He said this year's show house is "almost ideal" for the much-anticipated event. He said it is a sprawling venue that includes spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean. "There's a lot to see," he concluded.
This annual event is a centerpiece of the society's fund-raising efforts.
"The show house provides an important percentage of our operating programs," Stevens said in a telephone interview. These include the museum's education programs, exhibitions and preservation initiatives.
The importance of the fund-raiser has increased this year due to the sluggish economy.
"Our endowments took a hit," Stevens said, "and we've seen some softness in our annual giving."
Chairwoman for this year's Show House is Beverly Young, working with a committee of volunteers.
Parking will be on-site.
Designers from York, Kittery, Wells, and South Berwick have been joined by firms from Cambridge, North Andover, and Boston, Mass., and Portsmouth, Hampton Falls, Rye, Hollis, and Barrington, N.H.
To go along with the show house, Old York sponsors a series of events, attendance at which includes tickets to the show house.
These include a designer discussion July 21 with four of this year's decorators at the York Harbor Reading Room at 491 York Street; a Fashion Show by Jane's July 28 at The Stage Neck Inn in York Harbor, a Stonewall Kitchen Cooking School Aug. 4 at Stonewall Kitchens, 2 Stonewall Lane, and Floral Design by Botanica Aug. 11 at Blue Sky, 2 Beach St., York Beach.
Advanced ticket purchase for these events is required and seating is limited. For information and tickets call (207) 363-4974.
The Museums of Old York collects, stewards and presents objects of historical and community significance from York and surrounding communities.
The museum campus in York Village features a contemporary art gallery, numerous period gardens and nine historic properties, including the Ramsdell House, a more than 250-year old house that once belonged to a farm laborer, and the Remick Barn, a fully-accessible visitor, education and exhibition center.
For more info, call (207) 363-4974 or visit the museum's website at www.oldyork.org.
Photo caption: Twin Cottage is this year's Decorator Show House. (Museums of Old York photo)
15th Antique Tractor and Engine Show Returns
It's summer time in Eliot, Maine and that can only mean one thing. The 15th Annual Eliot Antique Tractor and Engine Show is right around the corner July 23rd - 25th at the Raitt Homestead Farm Museum located at 2077 State Road (Route 103), only 5 miles from the Kittery Outlet Malls.
Featuring a huge assortment of antique tractors, farm equipment displays, hit and miss engines, shingle mill demonstrations, auction, live music, bean hole beans, strawberry shortcake and other fair food, crafts, flea market, tractor parades, Garden Tractor Pulling, Antique Stone Boat Pulling, Transfer Sled pulling, kids pedal tractor pulls, the Raitt farm barrel tractors, Colonial Encampment and more. Fun for the entire family, this event is one of three fund-raising events held at the Farm Museum each year. 100% of the proceeds raised go to the preservation and restoration of the beautiful 33-acre farm property and to continue its mission statement of educating future generations about farming history.
The weekend kicks off Friday the 23rd with the popular auction to benefit the Raitt Homestead Farm Museum. Spectators get in free by donating an auction item. "It's a great way to start the event and brings everyone together for some fun. "It's full of great bargains, and raises much needed revenue for our organization," stated Steve Beckert, President of the Raitt Homestead Farm Museum.
The Shingle Mill operated by Phil St. Jean will be running throughout the event, showcasing how old-fashioned shingles are made. "The shingles will be used to restore the Apple Barn and other buildings on the property," stated Lisa Raitt, Trustee and Event Coordinator for the Raitt Homestead Farm Museum. "We are in the process of restoring the Apple Barn and the new shingles you see on the front of the building were cut at last years show." Jon Hodgdon will be branding some of the shingles as they come off the mill too.
Saturday begins with the popular Pancake Breakfast at 7 a.m. followed closely by the sounds of the hit and miss engines and tractors making their way around the grounds. Larry Hosack takes the stage midday Saturday to entertain, followed by the Tractor Parade and Pulling. In the evening a Roast Beef dinner will be served while the local band Sugar Shack performs on stage. Come early as the tickets for dinner go fast. Then grab your partner and dancing shoes as Square Dancing makes its popular return and anyone can come and join in the fun.
Sunday starts with the pancake breakfast at 7 a.m. followed by the Church service in the Pines 9-10 a.m. The Engine displays and shingle mill demonstrations continue with the kids Pedal tractor pull followed by Transfer Sled Pulling and a tractor parade round out Sunday. At 2 p.m. the raffles will be drawn.
Sponsored by Cabot Creamery, Johnsons Seafood & Steak, Raitts Signs, Bob's Trophies and Awards, The Tire Loft, and Rousseau Farm Excavation, the 15th year of the show is sure to delight all ages.
Admission price for the show is $5 per person, children 12 and under get in free. Plenty of on site free parking. For more information please visit www.eliotantiquetractorandengine.org, call 207-748-0860 for the show schedule or email eatea@comcast.net.
The Raitt Homestead Farm Museum is a registered non profit organization dedicated to the preservation and restoration of the beautiful 33-acre property. Continuing to educate future generations about farming heritage is a vital part of our mission statement. With your continued support we can meet our goals for the 2010 season. Located at 2077 State Rd in Eliot, Maine. Visit www.raittfarmmuseum.org.
Photo caption: John and Bailey B. on tractor. (Courtesy photo)
Former Berwick Academy Headmaster Turns 100
Approximately 150 friends, family and former students gathered at the Commons at Berwick Academy on Thursday, July 8 to celebrate Mr. Stuart Chaplin's 100th birthday.
Guests joined Mr. Chaplin for a luncheon and tours of the Academy's buildings, given by Rachel Saliba, BA's Archivist.
At the luncheon program, Jedd Whitlock, BA's Director of Advancement, introduced each speaker beginning with Rev. Donna Muise of the First Parish Federated Church in South Berwick where Mr. Chaplin is a parishioner.
Following lunch, Greg Schneider, the Academy's Head of School spoke about Mr. Chaplin's positive affect on his students over the years, many of who were in attendance. Greg also thanked Mr. Chaplin for providing mentorship to him as head of the Academy, more than fifty years following Mr. Chaplin's tenure, which began in 1950 and ended in 1956.
Greg also presented Mr. Chaplin with several letters containing birthday wishes from Maine's Governor Baldacci and President and Michelle Obama.
Greg played a jazz selection on the saxophone before presenting Mr. Chaplin with a framed print of Fogg Memorial as well as a framed photograph of Mr. Chaplin, which will be hung in Fogg outside of his former office.
Other speakers included Sally Knowlton Carmichael, BA Class of 1954, who spoke about the close relationship between Mr. Chaplin and her class, evidenced by their monthly lunches at Fogarty's restaurant in South Berwick. Sally also described the tribute to Mr. Chaplin from the Class of 1954, a granite bench inscribed with his name, which sits in front of the 1791 House on the Academy's campus.
Mr. Chaplin spoke briefly but left the bulk of the speaking to his daughter, Kera Ashline. Kera thanked many of the guests by name, including neighbors, South Berwick Community Center volunteers, former high school students from Newport, Maine, as well as the BA Class of 1954. "People say it takes a village to raise a child," Kera said. "It also takes a village to care for a senior citizen." She mentioned how touched her father is by all of the people who care about him every day.
Additional musical performances included Joseph "Ducky" Scanlon who sang "God Bless America," and BA faculty member Tim Platt accompanied by BA Business Manager Seth A. Hurd '90 on the keyboard leading the BA school song "Long Live Berwick, Long Live BA!"
Photo caption: Berwick Academy Head of School Greg Schneider congratulates former Headmaster Stuart Chaplin at his 100th birthday celebration. (Courtesy photo)
Ogunquit Days – Village Celebrates 30 Years of Separation
The village of Ogunquit turned 30 on July 1st, and boy do they know how to throw a party.
For five full days, July 1st through the 5th, community leaders, residents, business owners and visitors celebrated the historic July 1, 1980 separation of Ogunquit from the town of Wells, of which it had been a part dating back to the 1600's. Although its official incorporation and municipality status was granted in 1913, as the town of Wells continued to grow commercially, Ogunquit sought separation in order to maintain its personal, small town feel.
Throughout the long holiday weekend, the Ogunquit Chamber of Commerce, local businesses and several community organizations and committees held tours and hosted special exhibits that exemplified the heart and soul of the quaint, nostalgic "beautiful place by the sea". From morning till night and from Perkins Cove to the Ogunquit Playhouse, birthday party festivities were ubiquitous throughout the village.
Among the many highlights was the 30th Birthday Party, held on Thursday afternoon on the lawn of the Ogunquit Memorial Library. While munching on a large, scrumptious American flag blueberry and strawberry birthday cake courtesy of Bread & Roses Bakery, participants listened as life-long residents and early governing officials shared stories about Ogunquit's move to an independent town.
Richard Littlefield, whose descendants were the first permanent white settlers of Ogunquit, was a town Overseer in the 1970's and one of the leaders in the move to separation. "We had our own philosophy and wanted to maintain a nice, little town," said Littlefield. Becoming its own village meant that the people of Ogunquit could make their own laws and adopt ordinances on issues like road signage and their ability to prevent 'formula food' restaurants and chains from coming into town. Littlefield went on to say, "Everyone who lives here is proud of this community. Innkeepers and residents alike keep their properties nice and we continue to retain our hometown, community feeling."
On Saturday, the Ogunquit Conservation Commission's Greening Committee held "Green Day" at the Main Beach. Committee Co-chairs, Bob Joyner and Madeline Brown, together with volunteers set up an awareness display to raise money for the greening of Ogunquit and to educate visitors on ways to help protect Ogunquit's natural resources. For a small donation, beachgoers had fun tossing water and juice bottles into a recycling bin and walked away with a 'Green Day. Everyday.' reusable tote bag and other prizes donated by local businesses.
"Over the last two years we've been working together with Ogunquit businesses and residents to help keep our community green," said Joyner. Green Day sponsors that underwrote the tote bags, including Bintliff's, Meadowmere Resort and Clay Hill Farm Restaurant, are Maine-certified environmental leaders. "We have the second highest number of them in the state, behind Bar Harbor."
Green Day reusable totes are still available for a $1.50 donation to support the commission's continued outreach efforts to keep Ogunquit beautiful, clean and green, and can be purchased at Jeremiah's, This Is It, Ogunquit Remedies, Revelations and the Ogunquit Camera Shop.
Visitors who stopped by the Dunaway Center on School Street on Saturday or Sunday had the chance to view the NAMES Project AIDS Memorial Quilt display and to remember those from Maine who lost their lives to AIDS and HIV.
Chris Prudente, President of the NAMES Project: Northern New England Chapter was on hand to answer questions and provide insight about the non-profit organization's mission to continue education, to remind us all that the disease is on the increase again in our country, even though it's preventable.
"In the 90's medications were developed to manage the disease and people weren't as scared about contracting it. Since 2000, though, AIDS is again on the increase and its face has changed," said Prudente. "Here in Maine high school and college kids are getting sick and nationwide, women are currently the fastest growing segment getting STDs and HIV."
"The Town of Ogunquit, including the town manager, has been very supportive of our organization and our mission, and we are very appreciative," added Prudente. If you missed them, the quilts are maintained and stored locally at the expense of the Northern New England Chapter and can be seen on display each year during Memorial Day Weekend.
Other awareness and fundraising events were enjoyed by locals and visitors: Thursday's '80's Night at MaineStreet' to benefit the Frannie Peabody Center, Friday night's Spirit of Giving Committee's 'Poodle Skirts for Pups' 50's-themed fundraiser for the Animal Welfare Society, and Sunday evening's 'Run for the Fallen' 80's Night at Clay Hill Farm.
The Ogunquit Playhouse birthday celebration festivities included back stage tours, hot air balloon rides and its Children's Theater production of "101 Dalmatians".
One thing is for sure, the people of Ogunquit are proud of their culture and individuality, and especially their warm, vibrant village. And why shouldn't they be? Just look around.
Photo caption: 30th Birthday Cake by Bread & Roses Bakery (Candi Enman photo)
"Private Gardens of the Kennebunk's" Garden Tour
English Cottage? Fruits and vegetables? Or maybe a Japanese Zen Garden?
If you need ideas or just inspiration for growing your own lush garden, plan to attend the Saturday, July 17th "Private Gardens of the Kennebunk's" Garden Tour. The annual event, now in its 16th year, is a fundraiser for the Child Abuse Prevention Council of York County.
For one day only a $20 donation to support the Council's vital programs and services will gain you access to nine private gardens at homes throughout Kennebunk, West Kennebunk and Kennebunkport. The self-guided tour, spanning 22 miles, will allow you to meander and view the gardens at your own pace, while gaining landscaping and gardening ideas.
Special guest Paul Parent, host of the popular Sunday morning syndicated radio show "The Paul Parent Garden Club", has been helping to promote the benefit and will make his gardens available for viewing again this year. Parent, a nationally recognized gardening guru, will offer tips and answer questions about gardening in New England, including landscaping options, plant varieties, pest control, watering techniques and more.
The Garden Tour will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., rain or shine. Selected gardens to be featured on the annual tour change each year, with the exception of Parent's who has new surprises this summer, and are kept secret until the day of the event.
On July 17th participants will need to purchase a brochure that describes each garden along the tour and includes a map with driving directions. Brochures can be purchased at one of these area businesses beginning at 10 a.m. on the day of the event: in the parking lot behind Marlows on Main Street in Kennebunk, at Kennebunk High School on Fletcher Street in Kennebunk, Estabrook's Color Spot Garden Center on Route 1 South in Kennebunk, Blooms & Heirlooms on Route 1 North in Kennebunk and Carrots & Company on Ocean Avenue in Kennebunkport. Those who have already purchased advanced discount tickets must exchange their tickets for a brochure and map on the day of the tour at one of the above locations.
While on the tour, participants can stop to enjoy light refreshments at Lucas on 9, which is located at 62 Mills Road (Route 9) in Cape Porpoise.
The Garden Tour began in 1995, when Shari Lewchanin, a past board member, fulfilled her obligation to raise money for the Council by creating the idea for a garden tour. In the 90's each board member was responsible for raising $200 each year. This year's Garden Tour goal is to see 800 participants and raise $18,000 to fund the Council's critical outreach, education and prevention programs.
"The Council is very fortunate to be located in a very generous community that provides such strong support for children and families in York County," said Laurie DuPaul, the Council's Executive Director. The Garden Tour is one of two major annual fundraisers for the Child Abuse Prevention Council of York County. All proceeds from the tour directly support the non-profit organization's works to raise awareness, provide education and prevent child abuse and neglect right here in York County.
The 2010 "Private Gardens of the Kennebunk's" Garden Tour is sponsored in part by Estabrook's Color Spot Garden Center; Digital Research, Inc.; the law office of Libby O'Brien Kingsley and Champion, LLC and Genest. Tour details can be found at www.kidsgreetogrow.org. For questions or more information, call the Child Abuse Prevention Council of York County at (207) 985-5975 or email events@kidsgreetogrow.org.
Photo caption: Paul Parent in the garden (Courtesy photos)
Stuffed: A Book Review of Beatrice and Virgil
"Beatrice and Virgil" is Yann Martle's follow up to the enormously successful "The Life of Pi." With "Beatrice and Virgil", Martel continues using themes and characterizations of animals to convey struggles that humanity has encountered over the years.
The story begins with a frustrated author named Henry, who has completed a follow up novel he combined with a non-fiction essay. The first quarter of the book wrangles with idea that fiction and non-fiction overlap, and with Henry's struggle with publishers and agents to see his vision that this release should be a flip book (a book that can be read with the essay first from one side, and flipped backward with the novel first).
Henry, a loyal and disciplined fan mail reader, comes across a vague letter accompanied by an excerpt from a play about a monkey and a donkey. The letter reads "I read your book and much admired it. I need your help." As Henry tracks down the return address, he stumbles into a vast taxidermy shop with a whole menagerie of mounted creatures. The author of this strange play that seemed to be about animals and fruit, but not really, is an octogenarian taxidermist also named Henry.
The second half of the book consists of the Henrys working on describing, critiquing and detailing scenes from the play. Young Henry finds himself trying to unlock the meaning of the play and even the taxidermist's passion for his livelihood.
At times the lists of items Henry spots on a shelf, or the animals he spots in the shop gets tedious (one or two lists go for over a page). While plausibly meaningful, Martel numbs the readers mind with this barrage of itemization. The description also veers into tedium, and makes "Beatrice and Virgil" better suited to a long winter's read rather than a light summer read where the reader's mind is likely swimming in a humidity induced laze.
In short, the story shifts from the play, to the life of Henry, and into descriptions of the finer points of taxidermy all within one hundred and twenty pages. By the time it all weaves together, the book is almost over, but Martel leaves very scant threads to encourage the reader to get to this point. For fans of "The Life of Pi," this is still essential reading. Also, those who enjoy a book focused on philosophical and observational musings will find Martel's method of engaging the reader satisfying as the story will finally unfold its meaning. Those looking for a page turner based on a traditional storyline will tire of this quickly.
The bottom line, Martel transcends the traditional story arc for a more challenging narrative. It will pay off for readers looking for more than a leisurely read, or a stock narrative that is often written and rewritten in fiction's mass market. Those who need a break from intricate detail and locution may want to look elsewhere.
Photo caption: Cover of Yann Martle's "Beatrice and Virgil" (Courtesy photo)
Helping to Keep Old Ironsides Shipshape
For two-and-a-half years a South Berwick man fought the commuter traffic to and from Charlestown, Mass, five days a week to work on a piece of United States history.
Sunday (July 4), Barry Person and a host of others will sail out of Boston Harbor as part of the USS Constitution, the Navy's oldest commissioned warship.
"It was a bit of a challenge but really exciting," Person said in a telephone interview from his South Berwick farm.
Person's work was part of a three-year project to refurbish the renowned Old Ironsides, a project that should come to a close in November. The work was done partly to ready the ship for the centennial celebration of the War of 1812. It was during that conflict that the Constitution earned her nickname.
The Constitution gained fame in August of 1812, when under the command of Connecticut native Isaac Hull she met and defeated the HMS Guerrier. English shots bounced off the Constitution's thick oak sides, thus gaining her name while she was destroying the enemy ship.
Hull went on to a distinguished Naval career including becoming the commander of the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard in 1813 and building Quarters A at the yard, a building which still stands and is the oldest structure at the yard.
Each year the Constitution goes on a turnaround cruise from her berth in Charlestown which allows her to remain a commissioned Navy vessel and allows each side of her to face outward during the year.
"I never did any service," Person said of not being involved with the military, "but it felt like that is what I was doing" while working on the ship.
Person was part of the Naval Historical Center, Detachment Boston, Department of Defense, which was charged with the refurbishing.
Person said it was a "temporary, fulltime position" which meant when "the time frame ended you left."
Upon his arrival with the first group of additional carpenters hired he said he did "odds and ends" as they awaited the arrival of the necessary materials.
One of the first things Person did was replace the two "cat heads on the ship."
The cathead is a large beam located on either bow of the ship, angled outward. It is used to support the ship's anchor when raising or lowering it, keeping it away from the sides of the wooden vessel.
Person said large equipment was needed to put these in place as they weighed in at about 2,300 pounds each.
It was a common practice to carve the projecting end of the beam to resemble the face of a cat.
Once that was accomplished he helped the entire crew replace the spar deck of the ship, the first level when visitors come on board the ship.
After that, he said, "they moved me around to different places" including a project to foremast in the front of the ship.
He has done historic restoration of old houses and barns and learned of the project while doing a barn repair for the late Joseph Frost of Eliot. He applied and was among the initial group of carpenters hired. More was added later in the project, he said.
While not working on historic ships Person said he "loves to farm" and "loves raising pigs. I've been doing that since I was a kid."
He combines his love of farming and historic restoration doing work with the New Hampshire Farm Museum in Milton repairing buildings to their original configurations.
Originally from the Midwest, Person came to New England in the summer of 1987 and has remained ever since.
He is married to Julie Person, a guidance councilor at the Rollinsford Elementary School, and the couple has two children, Madison, 8 and Baylor, 10.
Person said the time spent on the job "took a toll on everybody" in his family. The drive took between 50 minutes and an hour each day. He was up and out early every day performing farm chores before leaving for work. He was there between 5:45 and 6 each morning, returning home in late afternoon.
In addition to his farming Person also does wood carvings, especially large herons. His work is available in galleries including the N.W. Barrett Gallery on Market Street in Portsmouth.
Photo caption: A South Berwick resident has spent the past two-and-a-half years helping to restore the USS Constitution. (en.wikipedia.org photo)
Hazard Mitigation Plan Update Meetings Set
The York County Emergency Management Agency and the Southern Maine Regional Planning Commission are working together on updating the Hazard Mitigation Plan for York County. The Federal Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000 mandates that, in order for local governments to continue to receive disaster relief funding from FEMA, your locality must update the existing plan every three years. This updated plan must be in place by October 2010.
To gather input, two area meetings are being held. There is a meeting on July 13, 2010 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the York Public Library Community Meeting Room on 15 Long Sands Road in York. We are requesting input from the public and EMA Directors of Eliot, Kittery, South Berwick, Ogunquit and York.
There is also a meeting on July 15 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the West Kennebunk Fire Station on 70 Thompson Road in Kennebunk (next to Middle School - plenty of parking in rear). We are requesting input from the public and EMA Directors of Arundel, Biddeford, Kennebunk, Kennebunkport, Old Orchard Beach, Saco, and Wells.
As we prepare the update, WE NEED YOUR INPUT. In order for us to update the plan, we need to hear from you. Please come prepared to discuss the following issues:
What types of natural and man-made disasters most threaten you and your property? What should your town and/or York County to do to help minimize damage from future disasters? How willing are you to use public funding to minimize future damage? How has the response of local, state and federal officials been to past disasters?
Please RSVP: malexandre@smrpc.org or (207) 324-2952.
Goodall Hospital Receives Re-Accreditation from The Joint Commission
By demonstrating compliance with The Joint Commission's national standards for health care quality and safety, Goodall Hospital has been re-accredited by the Joint Commission and again received their Gold Seal of Approval™.
"We are so proud of our recent survey results," said Darlene Stromstad, President/CEO of Goodall Hospital. "Accreditation demonstrates our commitment to patient safety and quality care. The survey itself is a rigorous process that reviews our work and standards over the long haul. We view obtaining Joint Commission re-accreditation as another step toward achieving excellence."
"Above all, the national standards are intended to stimulate continuous, systematic and organization-wide improvement in an organization's performance and the outcomes of care. The community should be proud that Goodall Hospital is focusing on the most challenging goal—to continuously raise quality and safety to higher levels," said Mark Pelletier, R.N., M.S, Executive Director, Hospital Programs, Accreditation and Certification Services, The Joint Commission.
The Joint Commission conducted an unannounced, on-site evaluation of Goodall Hospital from June 15 through June 18, 2010. The accreditation award recognizes Goodall Hospital's dedication to complying with the Joint Commission's state-of-the-art standards on a continuous basis.
Founded in 1951, The Joint Commission seeks to continuously improve the safety and quality of care provided to the public through the provision of health care accreditation and related services that support performance improvement in health care organizations. The Joint Commission evaluates and accredits more than 15,000 health care organizations and programs in the United States, including more than 8,000 hospitals and home care organizations, and more than 6,800 other health care organizations that provide long term care, assisted living, behavioral health care, laboratory and ambulatory care services. The Joint Commission also accredits health plans, integrated delivery networks, and other managed care entities. In addition, The Joint Commission provides certification of disease-specific care programs, primary stroke centers, and health care staffing services. An independent, not-for-profit organization, The Joint Commission is the nation's oldest and largest standards setting and accrediting body in health care.
First Congregational Church in Kennebunkport to Ce...
Wells Resident Mary Jordan to Compete in World Equ...
South Berwick Resident Awarded for Engineering Exp...
Kennebunk Savings Donates $80,000 to York County N...
Ogunquit Days – Village Celebrates 30 Years of Sep...
Goodall Hospital Receives Re-Accreditation from Th...


Does Overcrowding of the Courts Lead to Injustice?
We all know that the Long Beach Court is at a tipping point as far as workload and the ability to process cases. The Courts are essentially shutting down all civil trials and focusing only on criminal cases. But does the system reach a point where the overworked players become numb to the protection of rights and want to move cases along, sometimes turning a blind eye the violations of constitutional rights? Some say this happens all the time, that Judges, Public Defenders and District Attorneys become jaded. How can this be avoided? A lighter caseload takes the stress off everyone, it allows the participants to focus more on every case, giving attention to violations of rights when they become apparent. Heavy case loads create an assembly line mentality, the cases come down the line faster and faster and they cannot get backlogged, they must be disposed of (imagine the scene from I Love Lucy in the chocolate factory) In this scenario, rights violations get ignored in the interest of "moving the cases along". Our criminal justice system is far too important to allow it to get to this point. More resources must be allocated to the Court system before it is too late. Your Thoughts?


janie Clean and sharpen ANY pruning shears in 10 minutes or less!
janie Studio of Danish artist Tenka Gammelgaard.
janie Dragoart must be used educationally because it is simply a drawing website but can be used beautifully in literacy. Very useful in art too when working with step-by-step drawing, orientation, size and proportion etc.
janie This is sad, really sad. Stop the hate guys. He was there when we needed him & now we should be there for him, he needs us. He needs our support. Don't worry Liam we love you and will support you <3. He's moved on so should we or at least try to keep our payzer feels on the down low. I can't see him hurting, it hurts me :/.
janie Coraline's parents imprisoned by the Other Mother.
janie haha this is true.
janie How to Guarantee You Will Never Get a Boyfriend. Or succeed in life.


The first five-star competition of the 2019 Winter Equestrian Festival (WEF) brought together top show jumpers to compete in the $391,000 Fidelity Investments Grand Prix CSI 5* on Saturday, February 9, at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center in Wellington, FL. Martin Fuchs and Clooney 51, owned by Luigi Baleri, captured the first big win of the circuit.
Richie Moloney and Rocksy Music, owned by Equinimity LLC, put on the afterburners for the final three jumps on course, but it would not be quite enough as they finished in 34.42 seconds for third place.


Yomega's Power Brain Yo-Yo builds on the Brain's solid foundation, adding a switch for its clutch return system. Choose between automatic or manual mode and enjoy two performance yo-yos packed into one. Perfect for beginners to learn in automatic mode and practice more advanced tricks in manual mode. 2 3/8" x 1 13/32". Ages 6 and up.


text:
Triumph launches new 2013 Tiger Sport!
Triumph has breathed new life into its 1050cc Tiger by giving it new suspension, a single-sided swingarm and 10bhp more, and in doing so turned it into what must be one of the surprise hits of 2013.
The new 2013 Triumph Tiger Sport features new fairing and tail unit and all-new suspension to make the Tiger handle better than ever, plus 10bhp more from the three cylinder engine.
It's designed as an adventure street bike that's never meant to go off-road, whereas the all-new 2012 Triumph Explorer 1200 is Triumph's Adventure bike with some off-road ability.
The engine gets a host of changes to the exhaust and intake system which results in a 10ps increase and 6Nm more torque. In true Triumph style, engineers have also worked on increasing the noise and growl of the bike to the rider, and by dropping one tooth at the rear sprocket the bike gets increased acceleration off corners.
The Tiger Sport now delivers an output of 125PS (123bhp, 92kW) and torque of 104Nm (77lb.ft, 10.6kgm).
At the front end, there are new headlights with four reflector style beams to boost the bikes looks and the performance of its headlight at night. From a rider's point of view they've improved the finish and the seat is 5mm lower at 830mm. It's longer too to create more space for taller riders. The handlebars are also lower, and at the rear, a new lower subframe means that larger optional panniers can be fitted, also helpoed by the single-sided swingarm and tucked in exhaust. In fact Triumph say the luggage capacity on the Tiger 150 Sport has doubled over the outgoing Tiger 1050.
As well as new fully-adjustable suspension front and rear, new radial brakes and new cast aluminium wheels unique to the new bike, the Tiger Sport also gets steeper geometry to increase the speed of steering, and a slightly longer wheelbase to improve stability.
The Tiger Sport is available in White or Red and will be available in March 2013. Prices will be announced in February.
Chinese firm teases 300cc turbo sports bike
Moto Guzzi upgrades 2021 models
CFMoto's three new KTM-based models
/bikesocial/news-and-views/news/archive/2013/january/triumph-launches-new-2013-tiger-sport
bikesocial/news-and-views/News/archive/2013/january/triumph-launches-new-2013-tiger-sport

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


text:
using System;
using System.Text;
using System.Drawing;
using System.IO;
using System.Reflection;
using System.Windows.Forms;
using Microsoft.CSharp;
using System.Collections;
using System.Linq.Expressions;
using Microsoft.VisualStudio.DebuggerVisualizers;
using System.Diagnostics;
using System.Runtime.Serialization;

namespace ExpressionVisualizer
{
    public class TreeWindow : Form
    {
        private System.Windows.Forms.TextBox errorMessageBox;
        private TreeBrowser browser;
        private string errors;

        private void InitializeComponent()
        {
            this.errorMessageBox = new System.Windows.Forms.TextBox();

            this.SuspendLayout();

            //
            // errorMessageBox
            //
            this.errorMessageBox.Anchor = ((System.Windows.Forms.AnchorStyles.Top | System.Windows.Forms.AnchorStyles.Left)
                | System.Windows.Forms.AnchorStyles.Right);
            this.errorMessageBox.Location = new System.Drawing.Point(8, 8);
            this.errorMessageBox.Multiline = true;
            this.errorMessageBox.Name = "errorMessageBox";
            this.errorMessageBox.ReadOnly = true;
            this.errorMessageBox.ScrollBars = System.Windows.Forms.ScrollBars.Both;
            this.errorMessageBox.Size = new System.Drawing.Size(280, 56);
            this.errorMessageBox.TabIndex = 1;
            this.errorMessageBox.TabStop = false;
            this.errorMessageBox.Text = this.errors;

            //
            // browser
            //
            this.browser.Anchor = (((System.Windows.Forms.AnchorStyles.Top | System.Windows.Forms.AnchorStyles.Bottom)
                | System.Windows.Forms.AnchorStyles.Left)
                | System.Windows.Forms.AnchorStyles.Right);
            this.browser.Location = new System.Drawing.Point(8, 72);
            this.browser.Size = new System.Drawing.Size(280, 192);
            this.browser.TabIndex = 2;
            this.browser.ExpandAll();

            //
            // TreeWindow
            //
            this.AutoScaleBaseSize = new System.Drawing.Size(5, 13);
            this.ClientSize = new System.Drawing.Size(292, 266);
            this.Controls.AddRange(new System.Windows.Forms.Control[] {
                                                                      this.browser,
                                                                      this.errorMessageBox,
                                                                     });
            this.Name = "TreeWindow";
            this.Text = "Expression Tree Viewer";
            this.ResumeLayout(false);

            this.Size = new Size(600, 800);
        }

        public TreeWindow(TreeBrowser browser, string expression)
        {
            this.browser = browser;
            this.errors = expression;
            InitializeComponent();
        }
    }

    public class TreeBrowser : TreeView
    {
        public TreeBrowser() { }

        public void Add(TreeNode root)
        {
            Nodes.Add(root);
        }
    }
}

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


text:
The tip suggested a person in the Belleville area was uploading and downloading child pornography, according to a news release. Detectives began an investigation that required multiple search warrants and surveillance details.
The investigation culminated with a search warrant issued on Thursday for the Back's residence in the 400 Block of Williamsburg Drive in Shiloh, but within Belleville's jurisdiction.
Belleville detectives were accompanied by investigators with the Illinois Attorney General's office and a St. Clair County assistant state's attorney.
During the search of Back's residence, multiple electronic devices were seized and analyzed and police found multiple computer files containing child pornography were located, they said.
According to search warrants filed in the case, police found 96 emails sent to and from an IP address associated with Back that included pictures and videos of children engaging in sexual conduct and sexual activity.
During the investigation police even saw Back leaving his residence with two juvenile males.
St. Clair County State's Attorney Brendan Kelly said the investigation is ongoing.
"We'll be using the Child Advocacy Center to follow up with any child which may have been in proximity with the defendant to make a determination if there is any cause for concern beyond what we have charged today," Kelly said.
Surveillance photos show suspects the St. Clair County sheriff's office is trying to ID
Twins charged with shooting of three in Madison that left 15-year-old dead
By Hana Muslic
Kelcie Miller, the Madison County, Illinois, woman who has been charged with faking her attorney's license in order to work for the public defender, is now facing additional charges from the attorney general.
Two people charged with murder in 2015 home invasion shooting
Witness intimidation charge filed in 13-year-old's 'Russian roulette' death
Woman whose body was found in a park in Washington Park was loved by many
Fight at public aid office leads to charges against Fairview Heights woman


text:
{% extends "layout_unbranded.html" %}

{% block page_title %}
  GOV.UK prototype kit
{% endblock %}

{% block content %}

        Back

QQ123456C

Overview

Options to improve

Starting amount

National Insurance summary

          State Pension date 4 May 2034

          Final relevant year (FRY) 2033-34
           18 years to FRY

          COPE estimate £18.84 a week
          Was contracted out

          Estimate up to 5 April 2016
           £120.10 a week
          Qualifying years 28

          Forecast contributing future years £159.55 a week
          Future years needed 9

          Most they can get £159.55 a week

Current position and forecast

Will reach £155.95 a week by continuing to contribute National Insurance without filling gaps.

Gaps filled
0

Estimate 5 April 2016
£120.10 a week

Qualifying years
28

Forecast
£159.55 a week

Future years needed
9

Filling gaps

Filling gaps can improve the current estimate and allow them to reach their forecast earlier.

Gaps filled
1

Current estimate
£124.55 a week

Qualifying years
29

Forecast
£159.55 a week

Future years needed
8

View details

Gaps filled
2

Current estimate
£128.56 a week

Qualifying years
30

Forecast
£159.55 a week

Future years needed
7

View details

Starting amount at April 2016 is £117.16 a week

Old rules

          Basic
          £111.35 a week

          Additional Pension and Grad
          £5.81 a week
          Total
          £117.16 a week

New rules

          New State Pension
          £124.52 a week

          RDA £18.84 a week
          Total £105.68 a week

Shortfalls in record

5 years can be filled

2016-17

This year is not available yet

2015-16

£733.20 shortfall

2014-15

£722.80 shortfall

2013-14

£704.60 shortfall

2012-13

£689.00 shortfall

2011-12

£289.80 shortfall

Full years and shortfalls

28 qualifying years

18 years to contribute before 05 April
                    2034

5 years with a shortfall

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Columbus, Ohio— A day after soundly defeating Kentucky, Ohio State split its dual meets with Michigan and West Virginia on Saturday afternoon. The Buckeyes won seven events on the day, including both relays.
The 200 medley relay kicked off the day's events, and in exhilarating fashion. Ohio State's foursome of Camey Rabold, Rachael Dzierzak, Liz Li, and Annie Jongekrijg overtook the top relay team from Michigan to win the first event of the day. The Buckeyes' time of 1:39.50 narrowly edged out their rival's time of 1:39.99; a big reason for that was Li's 22.56 split being nearly two seconds faster than her Wolverine counterpart (24.43), which helped OSU make up ground that it would not relinquish.
Lindsey Clary followed that up with a second place finish in the 1000 freestyle (9:44.39), breaking her season-best from earlier this season by two seconds, moving her up to fifth among fastest 1000 free times in the nation this year. In the 200 freestyle, Ohio State's top finisher was Christi DiPaolo with a mark of 1:49.03.
Ohio State got a couple swimmers in the top-four of the 100 backstroke: Zulal Zeren (55.78) placed third and Rabold (55.92) finished fourth for the Buckeyes. OSU gained some ground in the 100 breaststroke, putting three swimmers in the top-four: Amy Bopp (1:02.58), Dzierzak (1:03.20), and Taylor Vargo (1:03.48). The event that followed, the 200 butterfly, came down to two swimmers at the top in Meg Bailey and Michigan's Astrid Swensen, with Bailey (2:00.39) outpacing her opponent (2:00.66). Amanda McNulty (2:03.15) also won a close battle for third place in that race.
Li sent Ohio State into the break on top, winning the 50 freestyle with a mark of 22.18. Teammates Jongekrijg (23.03) and Macie McNichols (23.27) joined her in the top-four, really helping the Buckeyes gain some ground.
A familiar face was the top Ohio State finisher in the 100 freestyle; Li (49.31) finished second and posted an NCAA provisional time in the process. Zeren would post an NCAA B time for herself in the very next event, the 200 backstroke, her time of 1:59.01 a few seconds behind the winner's mark of 1:55.38. Adding to the day's list of close finishes was the 200 breaststroke, where Bopp and Michigan's Emily Kopas were neck and neck until the very last instant when Kopas (2:14.20) squeaked by Bopp (2:14.46), who joined her other teammates with an NCAA B time.
In the 500 freestyle, Ohio State was able to put four swimmers in the top-six, led by Clary (4:46.65) and Katy Luchansky (4:55.75) and Bailey followed that up with a first place finish in the 100 butterfly (55.01), her second top finish of the afternoon. The Merewether, Australia native was the fastest Ohio State swimmer in her next event as well, the 200 IM; Bailey's 2:01.59 was good enough for second place.
On the diving boards Ohio State had a successful day. Hannah Thek won both events, meaning the sophomore went a perfect four-for-four this weekend individually. Thek's scores of 274.80 on the platform and 339.05 on the three-meter paced all comers while Haley Allen's score of 291.65 was good for third in the three-meter.
Closing out the day's events was the 400 freestyle relay, which was won by the Ohio State relay team of Jongekrijg, Li, Dzierzak, and McNichols (3:20.01) and ended the meet as it began: with a close finish in a relay event.
That tough racing proved invaluable in a few instances over the course of the weekend, notably in the relay events, of which Dorenkott was particularly impressed.
As the schedule inches closer to the Big Ten Championships and NCAA Championships, he sees something in his group of swimmers that could mean some very big things are ahead in the coming weeks.
The Buckeyes still have one dual meet left on their schedule: a Friday evening affair with Wright State on Feb. 5. That meet will also serve as the team's Senior Day where the squad's four seniors- Dzierzak, Jongekrijg, Luchansky, and Rabold- will be honored prior to the meet beginning.


text:
She Told Her Husband She Didn't Want Him To Leave For Europe
By Ofeibea Quist-Arcton
Published April 27, 2016 at 3:49 AM CDT
Ofeibea Quist-Arcton
Aissatou Sanogo and her late husband, Souleymane Diaby.
One evening in November 2014, Aissatou Sanogo's husband came to tell her some startling news.
"Aissatou," he said, "I'm leaving for Europe" — that very night. He earned a modest salary as a bakery deliveryman in Senegal but had dreams of making far more for his family in a European country.
"I told my husband I didn't want him to leave Senegal and that the little money he brought home was enough for us to live on," says Sanogo. "But he got angry with me saying I wanted him to stay close to me. I was crying, but I let him go." He said reaching Europe was the only way he could properly provide for his family and earn enough to look after his sick father.
That was the last time Sanogo saw her husband.
It has been a year since he drowned crossing the Mediterranean. He's one of probably hundreds of African migrants who've drowned on the journey from Africa to Europe. And the numbers keep mounting. In just the past week, there were reports of dozens more drownings. That means more African women have likely joined Sanogo in the growing ranks of migrant widows.
Aissatou Sanogo is 29 and lives in Tambacounda, the main city in eastern Senegal, a region at the epicenter of the migrant exodus from this stable and democratic — though poor — west African nation. We met at the modest home she shares with her ailing father-in-law and the three children she bore during 10 happy years of marriage to Souleymane Diaby, who was 33 when he died.
Ofeibea Quist-Arcton / NPR
Aissatou Sanogo with two of her three children, Issa, 7, and Binetou, 3. Her 2-year-old was asleep when the picture was taken. Their father drowned in the Mediterranean while trying to reach Europe, hoping to earn a good living there to support his family in Senegal.
Diaby was one of many young men from eastern Senegal who've begun the treacherous 3,300-mile odyssey to Europe. He traveled first to neighboring Mali and on to Niger, then across the Sahara Desert en route to the last stop on land, Libya, where he spent several difficult months. Migrants often have their money stolen and get thrown into jail. And they must run the gantlet of traffickers to find passage for the crossing to Europe.
They spoke on the phone several times, late at night, says Sanogo. Then, in April last year, her husband called to say he was boarding a boat that was smuggling migrants to Italy. She ended that long conversation saying she needed to recharge her cellphone.
That was the last she heard from her husband.
Sanogo has shared her story calmly so far, but at this point the young widow breaks down, weeping quietly. The boat carrying her husband capsized the next day, and he perished in the Mediterranean. She learned about the accident while she was watching the news on TV on April 19, 2015. She cried because of the tragedy, but says, "I didn't think for a moment that my husband was on the boat."
Some days later, the Red Cross informed Souleymane Diaby's family that he was one of the drowning victims — that, as some Senegalese put it, Souleymane "remained in the water."
"They never found his body," she says. "That makes it harder, because you don't see the body of the man you loved. It made it even harder, but we have to accept God's will."
We're sitting on a king-size bed, and Sanogo stands up to adjust a whirring fan to cool her youngest child, 2-year-old Alioune. The toddler is sprawled on the floor sleeping in the bedroom where we're talking. Sanogo's eldest, Issa, who's 7 — a boy with a strikingly steady gaze and a mournful air about him — is outside with his playful younger sister, 3-year-old Binetou. Their father's father, who appears to have had a stroke, lies immobile on a bed on the veranda.
Aissatou Sanogo and the many other young widows in this part of Senegal are now coping with the reality of life without their husbands, the breadwinners.
But there's no official assistance or coordination to bring these women together, says Sanogo. The main focus of nonprofit organizations is helping to resettle returnees — those who have been deported from Europe and repatriated to Senegal — and to try to stop them from migrating again illegally and to stop first-timers as well.
Sory Kaba, a senior official at Senegal's emigration ministry, told NPR by phone the authorities have difficulty even identifying such widows. "It's hard to find these widows, because they hide and keep themselves to themselves," Kaba says. "Can you give me names and numbers?" he responds when told that journalists visiting the region easily managed to find half a dozen widows. "If we can find them, then we can link these women up with the social and protection services that can help them and their children," says Kaba.
Twenty-five miles away from Tambacounda city, where Sanogo lives, is the rural village of Dyabougou, near Missirah. Giant shade trees dominate the thatch-roof and earthen huts. Outside a hut that is her father's grocery shop, Batourou Cisse is on a bench, breastfeeding her son, Sory. He's 2. Sarta, her 3-year-old daughter, sits close by.
With a look of permanent bewilderment, Cisse relates a sorrowful tale similar to Aissatou Sanogo's. Cisse's husband, Mahamadou Sylla, a farmer, also perished at sea, trying to reach Europe in search of a better life for his family. Cisse, too, expresses a wish to discuss her troubles with other women suffering the same fate but says she wouldn't know where to start. No official or nongovernmental group has been in touch to find out what she's going through.
That's nothing new, says Kadiatou Cisse, no relation. This sickly 56-year-old woman lives in a crumbling compound home with her son, two daughters-in-law and five grandchildren, in Balla village. It's also in the Tambacounda area, a regional crossroads that historically has been a springboard for migration from Senegal.
Cisse says women just have to cope and find a way to feed the family. Her husband emigrated decades ago, when she was pregnant with their last son. She struggled on her own to raise four children, while he sent home remittances when he could. He was deported — she's not sure from where — and ended up in Cameroon, where Cisse says he settled and started a new family.
She did not use the word "abandoned," but her rheumy eyes were full of pain. She says the bug to migrate has infected their children. Dates are hazy, but her eldest son left for Europe as an undocumented migrant and now lives in Spain with his wife and children and is sending money home to his sick mother.
Her youngest son tried to get to Italy more than a year ago but was deported from Libya. Cisse says young people are under pressure to leave from family and society, as well as a sense of pride and desperation to prove themselves and succeed. But she is no fan of migration.
"In my view, it's just not worth it, no it's really not worth it," she says. "Illegal migration is no good. We're full of regrets. Even young women want to leave now. It's like gangrene, like a cancer among young people."
Back in Tambacounda, fiddling fondly with a treasured photograph of herself and her husband smiling in happier times, Aissatou Sanogo makes this vow: "I failed to stop my husband leaving Senegal, but the only way any of my children will ever travel to Europe is armed with a plane ticket and valid papers, certainly not by boat."
Ofeibea Quist-Arcton is an award-winning broadcaster from Ghana and is NPR's Africa Correspondent. She describes herself as a "jobbing journalist"—who's often on the hoof, reporting from somewhere.
See stories by Ofeibea Quist-Arcton


Below are a few of the Many Features you'll get with a Hosted PBX for your Armstrong business.
Hosted PBX Systems are a great fully function phone system and service all in one. It is loaded with lots of features and is simple to install, and affordable to operate. Most Armstrong Illinois companies save between 40 – 70% on their monthly telecom costs.
Posted in VoIP Service Illinois and tagged Cloud PBX Armstrong Illinois, Phone Systems Armstrong Illinois, small business phone system Armstrong Illinois, small business phone systems Armstrong Illinois, Virtual PBX Armstrong Illinois, Voip Phone system Armstrong Illinois.
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Hoste d PBX Systems are a great fully function phone system and service all in one. It is loaded with lots of features and is simple to install, and affordable to operate. Most Armstrong Illinois companies save between 40 €" 70% on their monthly telecom costs.
Posted in Hosted PBX Illinois and tagged Cloud PBX Armstrong Illinois, Hosted PBX Armstrong Illinois, Phone Systems Armstrong Illinois, Small Business Phones Armstrong Illinois, Virtual PBX Armstrong Illinois.


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Star Trek Omnibus
by Michael Fleisher, Marv Wolfman, Mike W. Barr and others
Michael Fleisher
Mike W. Barr
Alan Brennert
J. M. DeMatteis
Marvin Pasko
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IDW's Star Trek Omnibus collects fifteen consecutive issues
from the early Marvel Comics run. Soar with your favorite characters like Kirk,
Spock, McCoy, Scotty, Sulu, Uhura, Chekov, and more as they battle for the
future of The United Federation of Planets - and the entire
universe!
Idea & Design Works
One of the most prolific and influential writers in modern comics, Marv Wolfman began his career as an artist. Realizing that his talents lay more in writing the stories than in drawing them, Wolfman soon became known for his carefully crafted, character-driven tales.
In a career that has spanned nearly 30 years, Wolfman has helped shape the heroic careers of DC Comics' Green Lantern, Blackhawk and the original Teen Titans, as well as Marvel Comics' Fantastic Four, Spider-Man, and Nova.
In addition to co-creating The New Teen Titans and the universe-shattering Crisis On Infinite Earths with George Purez, Wolfman was instrumental in the revamp of Superman after Crisis, the development of The New Teen Titans spinoff series Vigilante, Deathstroke The Terminator and Team Titans, and created such characters as Blade for Marvel, along with Night Force and the retooled Dial "H" For Hero for DC.
In addition to his numerous comic-book credits, Wolfman has also written several novels and worked in series television and animation, including the Superman cartoon of the late 1980s and currently the hit Teen Titans show on Cartoon Network.
Alan Brennert is the author of Honolulu, Palisades Park, and Moloka'i, which was a 2006-2007 BookSense Reading Group Pick; won the 2006 Bookies Award, sponsored by the Contra Costa Library, for the Book Club Book of the Year; and was a 2012 One Book, One San Diego Selection.
He won an Emmy Award for his work as a writer-producer on the television series L.A. Law.
Be the first to review Star Trek Omnibus.
Graphic novels Science fiction


(2018) 15 SECOND HORROR CHALLENGE - OFFICIAL TRAILER AND MORE!
With talent this good, 15 seconds of horror can feel like an eternity of hell. Last year's entries were filled with jolting vignettes, some of which still haunt my memories, so I'm expecting things to ramp up even more this year. Of course, we couldn't help toss our own hat into the ring, so we're a little extra excited this go round. Check out the trailer at the end of the press release, and the details on who will be passing judgement on our humble little endeavor.
WELCOME to the 15 Second Horror Film Challenge's fourth annual kick off as we are on the road to our Halloween showcase of 500+ entries produced by filmmakers from around the world! Throughout November into December, this year's 40+ featured celebrity judges will share selfies of their top 10 picks as the top films are determined!


At YFPS we support the UNICEF Rights of the Child. We have regular meetings to discuss how we can help to ensure that these rights are supported and achieved. We are currently fund raising to support the work of UNICEF who are working with refugee children.
In our school we have all made individual pledges to show how we can improve the world through a greater awareness to sustainability.
We will be fund raising next week to raise money to buy educational resources for the children who are currently based at the Dunkirk Refugee camp. The information about the school can be found by following the link: Dr Fox. Dr Fox is a retired headteacher and is currently running a school at Grande-Synthe camp near Dunkirk. In January he appealed for extra support to help him with his work. This follows the UNICEF Rights of the Child Article 28: Every child has the right to an education. Primary education must be free. Secondary education must be available to every child. Discipline in schools must respect children's dignity. Richer countries must help poorer countries achieve this.
Children in YFPS will work actively to support the work of Dr Fox at Grande-Synthe Camp.


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FG Gives Committee 4 Weeks To Adjust Workers' Salaries
May 16, 2019 louis Icon News, Politics 0
The Federal Government yesterday inaugurated a 22-man committee to negotiate the consequential adjustment in salaries arising from the new national minimum wage.
President Muhammadu Buhari had before the passage of the new minimum wage bill stated that the salaries of all those earning above the minimum wage would be reviewed.
The inauguration of the committee by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Mr. Boss Gida Mustapha, came one month after President Buhari signed the national minimum wage bill into law.
The committee, which has four weeks to conclude and submit its reports, is chaired by the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (HoCSF), Mrs. Winifred Oyo-Ita. The SGF will also serve as the Alternate Chairman.
Mustapha said the primary mandate of the committee will be to negotiate the consequential adjustment in salaries arising from the new national minimum wage.
Up To N14tr has been stolen under the present Buhari-led administration 'PDP'
Cancer Untold (Lifestyle poem of the day)


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Abilities. Brulbash; Objective of [100 - 110] The Drogbar Quotes. Don't mess with the mountain! Gonna enjoy guttin' you! Lemme hear your bones crunch! Puny karkun!
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The Snake Guardz brand of snake gaiters are light-weight (a pair of size large weighs 1 pound and 9 ounces) and are cool, contoured to fit, and feature a unique design that allows air circulation between your leg and the snake gaiter.
Bitestone Rockcrusher is a level 98 - 110 NPC that can be found in Highmountain. The location of this NPC is unknown. This NPC is the objective of The Drogbar.


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Q: Add value to textbox after clicking the "Add" button in VB.net Here is my Part of the coding...what i want is when i clicked the button, the value from the database will be added into the textbox. But what i get when i click the button, the value in the textbox is straight replaced by the new value from the database.
anybody can help me on solving this problem?
Private Sub btnAdd_Click(ByVal sender As System.Object, ByVal e As System.EventArgs) Handles btnAdd.Click

        txtShowDescrip.Text &= cmbDescrip.SelectedItem & ","

        Dim conn As OleDbConnection = New OleDbConnection("Provider=Microsoft.ACE.OLEDB.12.0;Data Source=SDP_DB.accdb")
        Dim str As String
        Dim dr As OleDbDataReader
        Dim cmd As OleDbCommand
        Dim total As Integer = 0
        conn.Open()
        str = "Select * From ChargeTable Where Description='" & cmbDescrip.Text & "'"

        cmd = New OleDbCommand(str, conn)
        dr = cmd.ExecuteReader
        dr.Read()
        If dr.HasRows = True Then

            total += dr.Item("PriceRate")
            txtShowRate.Text = "$" & total

        End If
        dr.Close()
        conn.Close()
    End Sub

A: Omg, read your own post back;
... when i clicked the button, the value in the textbox will be added into the textbox.
But when i click the button, the value in the textbox is straight replaced by the new value.
So what exactly do you want to happen the the button is clicked?

A: Your currently set the text of the textbox to the new value, if you want to add new stuff you need to use & or &=
    Dim nfi As New System.Globalization.NumberFormatInfo()
    nfi.CurrencySymbol = "$"

    dim tot as decimal = total + Decimal.Parse(TextBox1.Text, Globalization.NumberStyles.Any, nfi)

    txtShowRate.Text =  "$" & tot

A: If dr.HasRows = True Then
        total = CType(txtShowRate.Text,Integer) + dr.Item("PriceRate")
        txtShowRate.Text = "$" & total.ToString
End If

A: You may use static declaration ..
Static total As Integer = 0

Or if you still use Dim ..
If dr.HasRows = True Then

    total = val(txtShowRate.Text) + dr.Item("PriceRate")
    txtShowRate.Text = "$" & format(total)

End If

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


text:
Eat and Play Your Heart Out: The Rec Room
Sharon Yeo	Edmonton, food, restaurants	 December 3, 2016 4 Minutes
There's a new full-service food and entertainment option in town! Back in September, Cineplex opened its first Rec Room in South Edmonton Common, the first of many planned for the country. In fact, after a second outlet is completed in Toronto next year, expect a third to follow some time in the summer at West Edmonton Mall (in the former Ed's space). Though this first location happens to share the same parking lot as its theatre big brother, this may not always be the case, and besides some Scene Card branding on site, the visual connection is subtle.
At 60,000 square feet spread out over two floors, the Rec Room has been created as a destination. With more than 140 amusement games and crowd-pleasing music, it appeals to an adult crowd (like Chuck E Cheese for grown ups), but they've taken the concept even further. They have incorporated some nostalgic elements – there's a small bowling alley upstairs and several retro games like pinball and Pacman.
The gaming floor
However, they've also done their research to stay on top of trends; hence, they also offer axe-throwing and virtual reality (curiously, considering the current market in Edmonton, they don't feature escape rooms).
In addition, I was surprised to find out they have a 225 seat auditorium and another stage in the main restaurant where programming is planned 7 days a week – everything from hockey on the big screen to karaoke, trivia nights and comedy shows.
The food at the Rec Room – divided into three distinct "restaurants" – mirrors its philosophy on entertainment. The nostalgia can be found in comfort food classics: a casual food bar called The Shed offers a poutine bar and a "sweet emporium" with gourmet doughnuts that can be injected with liqueur.
Doughnuts at The Shed
But they also stay on-trend with The Loft and its wood-fired pizzas (wood-fired anything continues to be hot) and the chef-inspired cocktails at the Rec Room's main restaurant, THREE10 (named for the three territories and ten provinces of Canada).
THREE10
Mack and I were invited by the Rec Room to try the food at THREE10 over the weekend. Arriving for a late lunch on Saturday afternoon, we found the crowds still relatively sparse. By the time we left prior to the dinner hour though, it was starting to fill up. We were told that line-ups are frequent on weekends, and private rooms have been completely booked into the new year. And although minors are permitted as long as accompanied by an adult, based on customer feedback, they are considering adult-only hours.
Mack and I were impressed with THREE10's beer list – it was nice to see several Alberta beers on offer, including Alley Kat and Yellowhead. On the cocktail front, we were a tad disappointed with our drinks. The restaurant boasted its recognition of seasonality, so it was unfortunate that we were recommended the strawberry basil lemonade – it was an easy drinking vodka-based cocktail, but one that should be retired until warmer times. The "new fashioned" that Mack sampled wasn't quite as smooth as he was hoping for, with its mace-nutmeg syrup and rootbeer bitters.
New fashioned and strawberry basil lemonade
The menu at THREE10 is said to be "inspired by Canada's vast and varied landscape", meaning primarily that it strives to appeal to many tastes. It features some conventional plates (steak frites, pork chop, half chicken), but they also have nearly a dozen starters to consider.
The applewood smoked bacon maple jam ($11) was a tasty combination of melted double cream brie and an underlay of smoky, sweet jam. Served with crostini, this was a great shareable appetizer.
Applewood smoked bacon maple jam with crostini
Similarly, the popcorn fried chicken ($13), served with a chipotle BBQ sauce, was really satisfying. The morsels were lightly battered, and paired well with the moderate kick of the sauce.
Popcorn fried chicken with chipotle BBQ sauce
For larger plates, we selected two dishes suggested by their staff. The pickle brined fried chicken ($24) is prepared as described – before being dredged and fried, it is marinated in a pickle juice brine. We didn't expect the brine to impact the flavour of the meat as much as it did, and unfortunately, it didn't quite work for our palates. I was also hoping the house biscuits would have been flakier and more layered than simple drop biscuits.
Pickle brined fried chicken, with whipped potatoes, slaw and house biscuits
The organic BC salmon ($26) fared better, served with a bed of whipped potatoes, sautéed spinach and crispy shallots. The fish was cooked nicely, and as a whole, it was a refined plate that I wouldn't have originally expected to find here. Reflecting their aforementioned seasonality however, they could have substituted root vegetables for the asparagus.
Organic BC salmon with whipped potatoes, sautéed spinach and crispy shallots
We didn't have room for dessert, but continuing the theme of fun and games, the sweets menu is printed in the form of a paper fortune teller.
What's your preference?
Although we'd likely return to THREE10 on future visits to The Rec Room for their appetizers, I'd prefer to round out my meal next time with a stop for poutine and a doughnut from The Shed, or perhaps a pizza from The Loft. The breadth of choices offered under the same roof at The Rec Room are what make the complex unique.
Before we departed, we took a spin through the amusements. Games are activated through credits purchased on an RFID bracelets, as opposed to using tokens, which can be cumbersome. For $20, 120 credits can be purchased, and most games we played cost between 4-6 credits per person.
Ice Ball (a Skee ball equivalent)
We had fun racing Mario Karts, playing a Skee ball equivalent, competing at basketball, and conquering Fruit Ninja and Crossy Road on big screens, among other games.
Hoops are my go-to amusement
Points achieved are recorded on the same RFID bracelet for convenience, and after a quick tour through the redemption room, it's clear the prizes are much better than those found across the street at Chuck E Cheese.
Redemption Room
If you're needing a break between errands at South Edmonton Common (especially during the busy Christmas season), consider stopping at The Rec Room for some games and a bite to eat.
Thanks again to The Rec Room for hosting us!
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