Oxford Hills Observer January 2011

A Monthly Lifestyle Community Publication Direct-Mailed Free of Charge Each Month to the Residents of Harrison, Waterford, Hebron, East Stoneham, North Waterford, Norway, Oxford, Paris, South Paris and West Paris

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January 2011 • Volume 9 • Issue 1

Turner Publishing Inc., PO Box 214, Turner, ME 04282-0214 • 207-225-2076 • Fax: 207-225-5333 • E-Mail: articles@turnerpublishing.net • Web: www.turnerpublishing.net

Events at Oxford Elementary School

Sixth grade students at Oxford Elementary show their classmates items purchased with penny drive money to donate to the giving tree at Walmart.

SMH Lights Christmas Tree

Skip Foley, husband of 1st grade teacher Laura Foley, spent his day Wednesday going from classroom to classroom playing his guitar and singing with the students.

L-R: Jennifer St. Pierre, Andrea Burns, and Gene Benner Stephens Memorial Hospital kicked off the holiday season on Wednesday evening, December 1st, with the annual lighting of the Christmas Tree. A jovial crowd enjoyed the festivities and lighting outside before retiring inside for hot cocoa and refreshments.

Gene Benner, President of the Board of Trustees, and Andrea Burns, Chair of the

Stephens Community Healthcare Foundation Community Relations and Development Committee, welcomed the group. Jennifer St. Pierre serenaded the crowd with several seasonal songs, and following the lighting of the tree, led in the traditional singing of “Silent Night.”

Western Maine Health President and CEO Timothy Churchill closed the program with best

wishes to everyone for a happy, healthy holiday season.

Stephens Memorial Hospital is an affiliate of Western Maine Health, and part of MaineHealth.

Visit Western Maine Health on the Internet at www.wmhcc.org. n

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Oxford Hills Observer

Upcoming Events

Hebron Society Learns About Oldest Roads

Norway Memorial Library Offers Winter Programs

Winter Activity Kits

to prevent boredom we will read some short action and adventure stories. Kids will learn about other books that the library owns that would be fun to read on snowy days! This program requires a lot of imagination so be prepared to be creative and have some fun.

For more information or to register for this program please call the library at 743-5309 ext. 4 to pre-register. n

After School Special: Snowflakes and Snowmen

Have you ever wondered if each snowflake is really unique? Or perhaps you are dying to know where all the snowmen go in the summer? If so this is the program for you! We will ask numerous silly questions that are sure to make you want to run out and play in the snow! As a group we will read a few books about snowmen in order to discover the mystery behind them.

Make sure to sign your child up today so that he/she doesn’t miss this enchanting program! n

Have you ever wondered what to do on long cold winter days? Children in 1st through 3rd grade are invited to join the program on Thursday, January 6th from 3:154:15 to make Winter Activity Kits. Participants will make games and activities to put in their activity kits for use later in the winter. In case the games alone are not enough

The Hebron Historical Society recently heard Charles Tobie describe his research and writing of the town's oldest roads.He told about the first road of consequence in town, a county road from New Gloucester to Paris established as a public way by the Court of General Sessions for Cumberland County in 1793.His research found a section from Minot Corner into Hebron identical to roads in use today. The most efficient way to reach the interior was to travel from Yarmouth up the Royal River to New Gloucester.

He detailed map locations of families who lived along the way during the first years of this new route through Hebron.Tobie has put his research, findings and maps into a pamphlet entitled " A Way Through The Wilderness," which is available through the Society.

Looking to get Your Federal Refund Rapidly?

Refund Anticipation Loans (RAL) may become a thing of the past. RAL’s are loans, secured by your federal refund, and received within a day or two. While there are no credit checks to receive these loans, there are lien checks with the IRS. This checking process is called `debt indicator’ and starting this year, IRS will no longer be providing the banks with this `debt indicator’ information. The `debt indicator’ is crucial to the bank’s ability to provide RAL loans. With the absence of this debt indicator very few, if any, tax profession-

January 2011

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als will be able to offer the RAL’s this year. For more information call your tax professional.

You may qualify for the Refund Anticipation Check (RAC) and receive your refund within 9 to 15 days. With the RAC program all processing and tax preparation fees can be withheld from the refund. This program has been around for as long as the RAL program, but less popular because of the time factor. With the RAC program, your refund is issued to you, only after the bank has received your refund from the IRS. Check with your tax professional to see if they offer the RAC program.

You can still receive your tax refund within 9 to 15 days directly from the IRS by simply electronically filling your tax returns; therefore saving RAL or RAC processing fees. With this direct process you must pay your tax professional directly.

The fees are not withheld from your refund. Please check with your tax professional to see if they offer e-file. n

Here at the Norway Memorial Library we want to continue exploring the magic of winter! At our Snowflakes and Snowman program children in 1st- 6th grade are invited to the library to explore the magic of snow. We will have some snow trivia as well as a snowflake and snowman craft.

For more information or to register for this event please call the library at 743-5309 x4.

Baby Boosters and Storytime Programs at Norway Memorial Library

a writer for School Library Journal. Kindergarten readiness skills are social, emotional, cognitive, expressive, and language.

Through bringing your child to storytime a parent is saying that their child’s growth and development matters.

Storytime and Baby Boosters is an important step in your child’s learning. However it is also important to continue the habit at home. Read to your child twenty minutes per day and soon he/she will be begging you not to stop. Additional books on storytime topics are always available following each program. Make sure to take some home to reinforce what your child has learned. Books can be addicting, make sure your child falls for it. For more information please contact the Norway Memorial Library at 258 Main Street, call 207-743-5309 or visit the library online at http://www.norway.lib.me.us/. n

The Norway Memorial Library offers two opportunities each week for parents and children to attend story programs.

Storytime is held Wednesdays at 10:30 AM and Baby Boosters is Fridays at 10:30 AM. Storytime is for children ages 2-5 and Baby Boosters is for birth-2. No registration is necessary and new parents and children are always welcome.

These library programs provide critical early childhood literacy opportunities. Baby Boosters provides a welcoming environment to introduce your child to the library, books, and other children.

In this space we read simple stories, sing songs, rhyme, laugh and play. Before a child turns two years old it is imperative that he/she learns to love, trust, speak and listen. Participating in programs at the library allows for both a child’s spirit and mind to grow and develop.

Storytime is the library’s PAYING primary early literacy and CASH! language experience. It builds a perfect skill set for getting your child ready Always Buying, Selling, Trading Used Collectible for kindergarten. “Talking and Sporting Firearms and Accessories with children and sharing books with them are excellent ways to encourage SPORTING GOODS the development of many 418 Main St. • Norway • 743-6602 of the skills in the kinderVISA, Master Card, Layaway & Gift Certificates garten readiness category,” Open: Mon 9-5; Closed Tues.; Wed & Thurs 9-5; Friday 9-6; Sat 9-3 according to Renea Arnold,

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A monthly look at the good news in the Oxford Hills.

Direct-Mailed Free of Charge Each Month to the Residents of Harrison, Waterford, Hebron, East Stoneham, North Waterford, Norway, Oxford, Paris, South Paris and West Paris

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January 2008 • Volume 5 • Issue 11

Turner Publishing Inc., PO Box 70, No. Turner, ME 04266 • 207-225-2076 • Fax: 207-225-5333 • E-Mail: articles@turnerpublishing.net • Web: www.turnerpublishing.net

PO Box 214, Turner, ME 04282 email: ads@turnerpublishing.net articles@turnerpublishing.net Founder Steven Cornelio General Manager Dan Smiley Copy Editor Bob Tymoczko Writer/Photographer Bill Van Tassel

CEO/Publisher Jodi Cornelio Operations Manager Tamara Clark Graphic Design Sherron Wildes Deb Heroux Kayt DeMerchant

Advertising: Jess Small, Joy Ribisi, Kristen Guay, Nicole Egan, George Harden The Oxford Hills Observer is published by Turner Publishing Inc., P.O. Box 214, Turner, ME 04282. Advertisers and those wishing to submit articles of interest can call 1-800-400-4076 (within the state of Maine only)or 1-207-225-2076 or fax us at 1-207-225-5333, you can also send e-mail to us at: articles@turnerpublishing.net. Any views expressed within this paper do not necessarily reflect those of this paper. This paper assumes no responsibility for typographical errors that may occur, but will reprint, at no additional cost, that part of any advertisement in which the error occurs before the next issue’s deadline. This paper also reserves the right to edit stories and articles submitted for publication. This paper is mailed on a monthly basis, FREE to all postal patrons of Harrison, Waterford, E. Stoneham, Hebron, N. Waterford, Norway, Oxford, Paris, S. Paris and W. Paris.

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January 2011

Oxford Hills Observer

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Emergency Department at SMH Donates to Heifer Project

The staff in the Emergency Department at Stephens Memorial Hospital recently raised $265 to support the International Heifer Project.

Heifer International is a global nonprofit with a proven solution to ending hunger and poverty in a sustainable way. Heifer helps empower millions of families to lift them out of poverty and hunger to self-reliance through gifts of livestock, seeds and trees and extensive training, which provide a multiplying source of food and income.

Mary Johnson, RN, led the team in getting excited about this Christmas Charity project. With the $265 donation, Mary explains, they have purchased a goat, a pig, and a flock of chickens to send to a community in need. Once in the community, a teaching program is provided to the individuals living there to help them learn how to take care of the animals. A breeding program is then instituted to create sustainable food.

The donation, in part, came from funds that the

Emergency Department staff won for the hospital’s departmental wreath decorating contest.

Nurse Director of Emergency Services, Darlene Glover, RN, MSN states, "I am once again overwhelmed by the generosity of the ER staff, not only during the holidays, but all year long.

Stephens Memorial Hospital is a member of MaineHealth. Visit Western Maine Health on the Internet at www.wmhcc. org. n

Submitted by Michael DiBiase Sometimes I think that people have forgotten about the simple things, like manners, for example. At times that are tough with the economy, people are quick to lose their tempers, and many of us have bad attitudes. We act as if we have a chip on our shoulders. To be blunt about it, people are thinking about themselves first and

everybody else second, if at all. I wonder whatever happened to the simple "excuse me, please," and "thank you" that you're supposed to say.

For a time I thought that we all had become ungrateful, self-centered individuals.

But my opinion changed recently, when I was part of a random act of kindness toward my family and me.

There are glimmers of light out there – the kindnesses

and good deeds from individuals you meet. And one of the best things we can do as a society is to pay good deeds forward.

Parked at a fast food restaurant in Oxford, my family and I were waiting for my twelve-year-old son to get back from his soccer game. Next to our car was a big black truck that looked new, with an old guy sitting in it. I got out of the car

Registration Open for CMCC

Fryeburg Academy announced as new site Open registration is underway for spring semester courses at Central Maine Community College, (CMCC) including the 20 classes being offered in Oxford County. In addition to courses at the Western Maine University and Community College Center (WMUCC) in South Paris, a number of courses are being delivered at Telstar Regional High School, Region 9 School of Applied Technology, and at Fryeburg Academy. The spring semester starts January 18, 2011.

“We have a large number of students from Oxford County who are enrolled in degree programs at CMCC,” notes Michelle Hawley, student services representative for Oxford County and coordinator at the WMUCC. “By offering courses at the Western Maine Center and other sites in Oxford County, we strive to make the college experience more convenient and accessible for these students. We are very pleased to add Fryeburg Academy next semester as a new site.”

Introduction to Psychol-

Pay It Forward

and proceeded to go into the restaurant for a cheap meal to satisfy our five-year-old daughter, who was getting impatient about dinner. My wife sat there in the driver’s seat playing with our youngest (five months old). So it felt a bit odd to her, that this stranger just sat in his truck, occasionally looking at her.

I came out and handed the food back to my five-yearold, and asked my wife if

ogy, Intermediate Algebra and College Writing will be offered at the Fryeburg site. All courses being of-

call the CMCC Registrar’s Office at 800-891-2002, ext. 292. For more information about the Western

Michelle Hawley, student services representative for Oxford County and coordinator at the WMUCC. fered in Oxford County are listed online at www.cmcc. edu under “Off Campus Locations.”

Students are encouraged to register online at www. cmcc.edu. They may also

Maine Center and other Oxford County sites, please contact Michelle Hawley at 207-743-9322 ext. 204 or 1-888-677-3377 ext 204 or email mhawley@cmcc. edu. n

that guy was still sitting there. That's when the man

See Pay on page 4

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Oxford Hills Observer

January 2011

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Oxford Elementary School First Trimester Awards School Pride Awards were given to the following students: Mrs. Maxfield’s Kindergarten: Anna Chaloult, Ayden Delamater, Hailey Hall, Roger Keough, Lucas Landers, Ashley Laroche, Bella MacLearn, Miles Mixer, Brittany Pike, Kaedon Rodriguez, Lia Traficonte, Oscar Schneider and Winter Smith Mrs. Shaw’s Kindergarten: Destiny Adkins, Laci Cook, Catlyn Enman, Makayla Eversole, Grayson Foster, Lauren Frye, Lea Gomes, Tori Hall, Samantha Mills, Peter Morrison, Travis Turgeon and Nichole Wilson Mrs. Powers/Mrs. Bru’s Kindergarten: Brady Smith, Chloe Perkins, Madison Martin, April Givens and Brianna Farrar Mrs. Cummings’ 1st grade: Brett Andrews, Robert Bernosky, Caydince Bumpus, Nathan Cooper, Adriaunna Eldridge, Destiny Eppinger, Charles Hall, Camden Hinkle, Dar-

ien Hunton, Isabell Jack, Rylie Lefebvre, Emma McKenzie, Sydni Smith, Sebastien Vallee and Grey Vanderwood Mrs. Foley’s 1st grade: Jesse Vesel, Kacie Record, Naomi Lefebvre, Katia Landers, Travis Glover and Zoe Dyer Mrs. Kane’s 1st grade: Mikaelah Bailey, Madison Brett, Elijah Foss, Madison Gordon, Alex LeBlanc, Ryan Nelson, Cameron Strout, Kayla Talbot, Jackson Theriault, Luke Thompson and Nicholas Wilson Mrs. Stevens’ 2nd grade: Alec Walker, Michael Thibodeau, Kerrigan Skinner, Elana Pierce, Molly Littlefield, Breanna Herrman, Payton Heaward, Gabriela Hall, Cooper Hall, Allyssa Boucher, Adrian Brett, Derek Brooker and Trever Leonard Mrs. Judkins’ 2nd grade: Audrey Bickford, Rowan Cayer, Garrett Jackson, Tyrese Koumou – Nete, Damian Martin, Walker Plummer, Jazmyne Real, Alex Rob-

erts, Branson Rodriguez, Elise Storer, Rielly Taylor, Jream Tripp, Riley Tripp and Colby Turcotte Mrs. Bracy 3rd grade: Paige Lord, Ruby Morrison, Jason Perfect, Jade Smedberg, Rhiana Stygles and Emilee Taylor Mrs. Langbehn’s 3rd grade: Brianna Corey, Haley Dillingham, Brianna Doherty, Cole Dunham, Brandi Farnum, Emily Hatch, Brooke Holt, Orianna Hutchins, Emily Landsperg, Kaleb Martin, Jordyn Mecervier, Noah Oufiero, Preston Perkins, Cameron Richards, Riley Smith, Victoria Toothaker, Guinevere Webster and Michele Wilson Ms. Roderick’s 4th grade: Jessica Bickford, Cassadi Chase, Russell Damon, Jaden David, Courtney Emond, Isabella Iadarola, Patricia Johnston, Morgan Nichols, Taylor Perfect, Sean Place, Courtney Record and Wyllow Smith Mr Stygles’ 4th grade: Zoey Britton,

Students Heading to China With Rotarian Help

Craig Blanchard is a high school teacher making his third trip to China with a group of OHCHS students to visit and learn at the sister school in China. The Oxford Hills Rotary Club is donating $500 to help with the students costs. On left, Craig Blanchard, teacher at OHCHS. On right, Joelle Corey Whitman, OH Rotary President.

FIND THE PHONY AD! And Win A Gift Certificate to an area merchant from one of our papers.

It’s easy to find - just read through the ads in this issue of The Oxford Hills Observer and find the phony ad.

Either fill out the entry form below (one entry per month, please) and mail to: Find The Phony Ad Contest, P.O. Box 214 Turner, ME 04282 or email your submission to: phonyad@turnerpublishing.net. (only one entry per household, please) You must include all the information requested below to be eligible to win.

Note: Turner Publishing will not lend or sell your email address to a third party.

(Multiple winners selected each month!)

Name: ______________________________________________________________________ Address: ____________________________________________________________________ City: __________________________________ State: ______________ Zip: ______________ Email Address: ____________________________ Phone (_______) _______-___________ Would you like to receive email notification of local area sales and specials? _____ Yes ____ No Please tell us your age (circle one) 12-25 yrs. 26-35 yrs. 36-45 yrs. 46-55 yrs 56 yrs & up The Phony Ad is: _____________________________________________________________ Tell us what you think of The Oxford Hills Observer: __________________________________

Madison Emond, Caleb Flagg, Emily Herrick, Mercedes Palmer, Travis Pike, AdelineTraficonte, Taylor Tripp and Audrey Tucker Ms. Guerrette’s 5th grade: Benjamin Bailey, Gabrielle Bergeron, Caitlyn Grassi, Graham Huckins, Mackenzie Jordan, Marley Mixer, Jason Paradis, Tsela Shraiberg, Kenneth Sleight, Victoria Smedley and Concetta Stewart Mrs. Tucker’s 5th grade: Ashley Bedell, Emery Chickering, Emily Corbett, Justin David, Tyler Day, Emilyann Drumm, Frederick Johnson, Kenzie Kahkonen, Alison Kane, Dominic Kugell, Erykah Larson and Morgan Reavis Ms. Stetson’s 5th grade: Phillip Abbott, Madison Bailey, Kayla Bernosky, Jackson Crane, Julie Dionne, Keisha Jackson, Marissa Morin, Hannah Smith and Briana Spinhirn Mrs. Roderick’s 6th grade: Jarret Bundy, Jordan Davis, Maegan Hewey, Cora Hooker,

Madison LeBlond, Kelsey Nicholas, Kendra Nicholas, Payson Priola, Morgan Richardson, Abriale Spinhirn, Ryland VanDecker and Desirae May Ms. Philbrick’s 6th grade: Jordan Graffam, Seth Sawyer and Ty Heaward Miss Wilson’s 6th grade: Morgan Campbell, Cheyenne Cox, Logan Day, Austin Labbe, Courtney Turgeon, Layne White and Brad Wielki Mr. Jaronczyk’s 6th grade: Karleigh Twitchell.

Academic Achievement Awards were given to the following students: Ms. Roderick’s 4th grade: Jessica Bickford, Cassadi Chase, Taylor Perfect, Courtney Record, Wyllow Smith and Connor Ward Mr. Stygles’ 4th grade: Zoey Britton, Madison Emond, Caleb Flagg, Emily Foss, Nathaniel LeBlanc, Travis Pike, Shea Staples, Adeline Traficonte and Audrey Tucker

Ms. Guerrette’s 5th grade: Benjamin Bailey, Gabrielle Bergeron, Mackenzie Jordan, Marley Mixer, Jason Paradis and Tsela Shraiberg Ms. Stetson’s 5th grade: Phillip Abbott, Kayla Bernosky, Keisha Jackson, Marissa Morin, Hannah Smith and Jarrod Taylor Mrs. Tucker’s 5th grade: Ashley Bedell, Emery Chickering, Emily Corbett, Justin David, Tyler Day, Emilyann Drumm, Christopher Godsey, Kenzie Kahkonen, Alison Kane and Dominic Kugell Mrs. Roderick’s 6th grade: Dylan Archer, Jarret Bundy, Jordan Davis, Maegan Hewey, Cora Hooker, Brandon Labbe, Madison LeBlond, Payson Priola, Morgan Richardson, Abraile Spinhirn and Ryland VanDecker Ms. Philbrick’s 6th grade: Dana Casey, Seth Sawyer and Ty Heaward Miss Wilson’s 6th grade: Logan Day, Courtney Turgeon and Brad Wielki. n

pay, from page 3

other job with a significant pay cut. All in all, here is this random guy doing a random thing, because as he said, “I can tell you love your kids, and I have had many kids of my own. I can just tell you guys could use it more than me.”

That man had never met us before. Nor for that matter did he know what kind of people we were. He just saw a family trying the best they could to make life happy for their children. This is what we need more of – people not quick to judge, or looking to get something in return. The only thing that should be

returned is the good deed to another recipient. And I will accomplish that. One of these days, when someone least expects it, I will do the same.

You see, there are people out there who think of others. I want to make people aware that it can happen, even if it’s not to you. You could make it happen to someone around you. That's right – you can be the giver of the good deed. But don't look for an award, or high praise; do it for the sake of doing good. It felt nice to receive, but I think to give will feel even better. n

finally got out of his truck.

He walked slowly in front of our car, then over to my wife's side, giving the sign to roll the window down. As you might think, we were a bit skeptical of this man's intentions, so we were on guard. He then said to my wife, “I think you dropped this,” as he handed her what looked like a piece of paper.

She said, “I did not drop anything; I haven't even left the car.” It was a fifty dollar bill. There was no way possible it was mine. I've been laid off for about a year, and my wife had just started an-

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January 2011

Oxford Hills Observer

Page 5

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The Healthy Geezer

By Fred Cicetti

Aging & Disability Resource Center for Androscoggin, Franklin, and Oxford counties

From the desk of Connie Jones…

Oxford and Franklin County Residents If I Had Only Known Mark Your Calendar for January 24 About ten years ago, when I was still living “away”, The SeniorsPlus Meals on my uncle was living alone in Maine. I was his longWheels program has been distance caregiver. His health was not good and we chosen as a candidate for needed to think about the future. No longer driving, the 2011 Bangor Savings how was he going to get to appointments, grocery Bank Community Matters shopping, church and to visit friends? His sight More award. This is wasn’t good, so how was he to pay his bills, sort out a great honor – but to his pills and read his mail? If he wasn’t able to cope, realize the top honor, we did he need to go to an assisted living facility or even need your help! People who live or work in a nursing home? If his own private funds ran out, Oxford and Franklin what would happen then? How did one get into an counties get to vote for assisted living facility or a nursing home in Maine?

Did one just walk in and say – “Hi, I’m here to stay?” the award winner. So we need your vote!

I didn’t know then that there was a SeniorsPlus in Voting begins on Maine. I didn’t know I could have called SeniorsPlus January 24 and ends on and said – we need help! I didn’t know there was March 7. The easiest a Valerie or Lori or Carmen who would say – sure, way to vote is to go to the we can help. I didn’t know she would come to my SeniorsPlus website, uncle’s house and meet with me and my uncle and www.seniorsplus.org, talk through his needs – transportation, bill paying, where you will find a assistive devices to aid his sight and keep him ballot, or go directly to connected. She would have told us about the assisted the Bangor Saving Bank living facilities in the area, and what would happen website, if his funds ran out. She’d be able to tell us the costs www.bangor.com and of nursing homes and a cleaning service and that vote on the Community there was a friendly visitor from the library that could Matters More page. come and read to him each week.

If I’d know then what I know now – we would have had our questions answered, our options all laid out and we’d been able to put together a plan – one that was centered around what he chose, that kept him at home just as long as possible and financially able to pay his bills.

And all this planning would have been free of charge.

That’s what SeniorsPlus does.

If we win this prestigious award – we will win $5000! Just think how many meals that would provide for our Meals on Wheels program!

If you appreciate the work of Meals on Wheels, please let us know through your vote.

Thank you!

This service is called Options Counseling. But if you don’t remember that term, that’s fine. Just call and say – “We need help!”

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Call SeniorsPlus Medicare specialists if you have questions.

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Q. Have you ever thrown your back out?

I hear an awful lot of geezers complain about their backs. How common is back pain?

Yes, I’ve had back problems most of my adult life and I know how debilitating they are. When I was 30, I put myself in bed for a week by carrying heavy stacks of newspapers to the curb. Back problems have been a recurring problem in the decades since then.

The first attack of low back pain usually happens to people between the ages of 30 and 40.

Back pain becomes more common with age.

Back pain is very common. It affects about 8 out of 10 people. This affliction incapacitates so many people and the subject is so extensive that I’m going to do a three-part series on back pain. This first one is about causes.

Back pain is more common among people who are not physically fit. Weak back and abdominal muscles may not properly support the spine. If you’re sedentary most of the time and then exert yourself on rare occasions, you are more likely to injure your back than someone who exercises daily.

If you’re carrying a big belly, you put added stress on the muscles in your low back and are a candidate for agony.

Some back pain, including disc disease, may spring from your genes. Race can have an influence, too. African-American women, for example, are two to three times more likely than white women to develop spondylolisthesis, a condition in which a bone—vertebra—of the lower spine slips out of place.

Your job can be a major influence on back health. If your work requires heavy lifting or sitting all day, you

risk hurting your back.

Many sanitationmen and writers suffer from back troubles.

Once again, cigarette smoking is a health hazard. While smoking doesn’t cause back pain directly, it increases your risk of developing sciatica, a pain that runs down the back of your leg from spinaldisc pressure on a nerve.

Smoking can block the body’s ability to deliver nutrients to the discs of the lower back.

Mechanical problems can cause back pain.

Perhaps the most common mechanical cause of back pain is disc degeneration. The cushioning discs between the vertebrae of the spine break down with age. If there is stress on these compromised discs, they press against spinal nerves and you may experience what feels like a toothache in a buttock.

At almost any age, an injury can force these discs to bulge or rupture causing the same kind of pain.

Spine injuries such as sprains and fractures can cause either shortlived or chronic pain.

Fractured vertebrae are often the result of osteoporosis, a condition that causes weak, porous bones.

Many medical problems can cause back pain. They include scoliosis, which causes curvature of the spine; various forms of arthritis, and spinal stenosis, a narrowing of the spinal column that puts pressure on the spinal cord and nerves.

Your emotions have a major impact upon back pain Never underestimate how they can tighten muscles and elevate your awareness of pain. I recall vividly being free of sciatica when I received some troubling news. Within minutes, I couldn’t put my left foot down because the pain in my leg was so intense.

If you have a question, please write to fred@ healthygeezer.com n

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Page 6

Oxford Hills Observer

January 2011

www.centralmainetoday.com

We Wish You a Merry Christmas

Gimel! Take All!

Gimel! Take All!

Continuing a Holiday tradition, band members from Oxford Hills Middle School recently traveled to Market Square Health Care to wish the residents a very Merry Christmas.

The performing musician on flute was Ashley Wentworth; on clarinets, Abby Angevine, Lauren Emery, Tyler Cameron, Hannah Mathieu, Molly Jordan, Jenna Hutchinson; on saxophones, Makayla Bisulca, Cheyenne Mooney, Jake Redgate, Makayla Marois and Blake Slicer. Blaise Spath, OHMS Band Director, accompanied the students.

Mayberry Honored

Don Mayberry receives his Paul Harris Fellow award from Rotary Past President Larry Jordan.

The Paul Harris Fellow is given to community members, both Rotarians and non Rotarians, who the club feels represent the embodiment of Rotary’s motto of Service Above Self.

Peanut’s Attic Consignment/ Thrift Shop

HOURS: Monday-Friday 10-6 Saturday 10-4 and Sunday 12-3 Consignment Hours: Tues 3:30-6 27 Winslow Rd. Casco (Off Route 11) 627-1047 www.peanutsattic.net

Isaiah Cufiero happily spins Gimel while playing Dreidel, a traditional Hanukkah game, during the Paris Public Library's After School Program. Spinning Gimel allowed Isaiah to "take the whole kitty" of beans. At the end of the game children could swap the beans they used as tokens in for chocolate kisses, which represented gelt (gold covered chocolate coins). Those who did not win, received the number of kisses to represent the number of beans they started with at the beginning of the game...which is not part of the tradition. The After School Program on Mondays at 4:00 hosts a variety of activities. All family members are welcome.

Turner Publishing has its eye on the Oxford Hills. If you’re reading this, advertising works! Call 225-2076.

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Becky Mason Senior Mortgage Loan Officer 8 Charles Street (Behind the Northeast Bank branch) South Paris, ME 04281 TEL 1.800.284.5989 xt 4228 CEL 207.890.3449 FAX 207.743.5958 bmason@northeastbank.com northeastbank.com/bmason www.centralmainetoday.com

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January 2011

Oxford Hills Observer

Page 7

www.centralmainetoday.com

Dottie Dymples – Recipes To Get You Feeling Your Oats

Shirley Toncer

Now that Old Man Winter is knocking on the back door it's time to get out your warm cereal to start the kids off to school and dad off to work with a good hot breakfast.

Who could forget the old days when mother would put the double boiler on the back of the old black stove to slowly cook the oatmeal overnight to be ready for breakfast the next day.

In the early 1800s oats were being grown for animal feed. Oat crops, mostly in Idaho, Illinois, Minnesota, Wisconsin and South Dakota, made the USA the

leading producer.

In 1877 Quaker Oats Co. was formed, but it didn’t officially become the Quaker Oat Co. until 1901.

Quaker Oats is not just a cereal – it is very versatile and can be used for bread, cookies, bars, and as filler for meatloaf. Also, granola wouldn’t be granola if not for oats.

Here are a few of my favorite recipes.

Filling 1 lb dates 1 cup sugar 1 cup water Cook until it looks jam.

No Bake Cookies 2 cup sugar 4 Tbsp cocoa ½ cup milk 1 stick margarine Put this in a deep pan, medium heat. Cook until it boils for ½ minutes and remove from heat. Mix in the following ingredients: 2 ½ cups oatmeal ½ cup peanut butter ¼ cup walnut pieces Drop by the spoonful onto wax paper immediately. Cookies are ready, cool and set.

Corine Ames Oatmeal Bread (Mix and set these three ingredients aside.)

3 tspn brown sugar ½ cup warm water 2 pkg dry yeast 2 cup milk (2 min in the microwave) ¼ cup brown sugar 1 egg 2 Tbsp shortening 1 Tbsp salt ¼ cup molasses 2 cups quick oatmeal 3 cups flour Mix and put together and beat for 2 mins. Knead and let rise until double. Knead again and put in greased bread tins. Let rise and bake at 375 for 40 mins.

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Grammie Young’s Date Layer Bars ½ cup shortening 1 cup brown sugar 1 ½ cup flour ½ tspn salt 1 tspn soda 1 ¾ cup quick oatmeal Cream shortening and

sugar. Sift dry ingredients. Add oats and mix until crumbly. Firmly pat ½ mixture into bottom of 13x9x9 pan. Place date filling on top of oats and pat the rest of the oat mixture on top. Press firmly until smooth.

Meatloaf 1 egg 1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce

¼ cup ketchup ¼ tspn dry mustard or prepared mustard pepper (to taste) ¾ cup oatmeal 1 to 1 ½ lbs lean ground beef 1 medium onion chopped Mix all ingredients together in a bowl. Mix only until it holds its shape.

(Over handling makes meat tough.) Form into loaf in baking dish. Bake 350 for 45 – 60 minutes. I also mix 2 Tbsp of ketchup and 1 Tbsp of mustard with 1 Tbsp of brown sugar that I spread on top before I put it into the oven.

Hint: Check green peppers when you buy them.

If it has 3 bumps on the bottom it is sweet and tender. If it has 2 bumps it is stronger and used more for cooking. n

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Page 8

Oxford Hills Observer www.centralmainetoday.com

January 2011

The Stephens Connection Connecting Stephens Memorial Hospital and Western Maine Health to the Communities We Serve

Winter 2011

Issue 10

Stephens Critical Access Designation Seamless Eugene Benner, Western Maine Health Board Chair, and Timothy A. Churchill, President and CEO of Western Maine Health, announced today that Stephens Memorial Hospital has received Critical Access Hospital (CAH) designation from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). The CAH designation was created by Congress to strengthen the delivery of healthcare in rural areas. There are currently over 1300 critical access hospitals in the United States and 16 critical access hospitals in Maine.

The Critical Access Hospital survey conducted by CMS took place on November 16, 17 and 18. Stephens Memorial Hospital met and/or exceeded all the necessary requirements. This designation will not change the high quality healthcare delivered by the physicians, nurses and staff at Stephens Memorial Hospital. The designation will only strengthen the ability to continue to care for the communities we are privileged to serve.

The trend in today’s healthcare is shifting toward outpatient services, thereby reducing the number of hospital inpatients. The CAH designation will allow Stephens Memorial to move towards private rooms for patients in the immediate future. Critical Access Hospital status will likely improve employee/physician staffing and existing services. Stephens Memorial Hospital will continue to provide the exceptional care and services that patients have come to expect.

Churchill stated, “Achieving Critical Access Hospital designation will provide significant improvement in reimbursement from the Medicare and MaineCare programs for hospital services. The improved reimbursement will provide financial resources that will help Stephens Memorial Hospital continue delivering high quality care to our patients and to develop programs designed to improve the health and well being of the communities we serve.”

intent to remain the healthcare provider of choice for the communities we serve. The Critical Access Hospital status, along with our participation in the MMC.TUSM medical school program, will help position us favorably for the future.”

Oxford Hills Family Practice Immunization Award Kyle Philips, Practice Manager for Oxford Hills Family Practice (OHFP) shared recently, “Oxford Hills Family Practice was recently notified and praised for their success with immunizations in the area.

Preventative care is an important part of our providing the best care in our community. Achieving 100% immunization success for our patients as part of the Maine Immunization Program’s AFIX (Assessment, Feedback, Incentive, and Exchange) process is valuable.”

The entire staff at OHFP contributed to this successful endeavor, which was led by Whitney MacArthur, MA, Beth Noble, and Holly Littlewood, LPN. Congratulations to Oxford Hills Family Practice!

Benner noted, “Patients can expect a seamless transition, and it is our

Women’s Imaging at SMH Goes Digital

retakes due to over or under exposure, saving time and potentially reducing exposure to x-rays. Digital images are easily stored, copied, and Women undergoing routine mammograms at Stephens Memorial Hos- transmitted without the worry of loss of data. pital Women’s Imaging Center now have the latest diagnostic technology From the patient’s standpoint, they will not notice much of a difference available to them, digital mammography. in the way in which mammograms are performed, however, due to the Stephens Memorial Hospital (SMH) unveiled the state-of-the-art sys- short turnaround time it takes to have the images appear on the techtem, SeleniaTM digital mammography from HologicTM in December. nologist’s screen, patients may notice less time spent in the Women’s SMH is very excited to be able to offer the newest technology for breast Imagine Center. cancer detection. Digital mammography is different from conventional mammography in how the image of the breast is acquired and, more importantly, viewed. The radiologist can magnify the images, increase or decrease the contrast and invert the black and white values while reading the images. These features allow the radiologist to evaluate microcalcifications and focus on areas of concern.

Dawn Derenburger, RTRM, Lead Mammography Technologist, shares that SMH purchased equipment called DigitalNowTM from Hologic that enables technologists to scan in prior film mammograms and enhance the images so that the radiologist may compare this film image to the new digital mammogram in the future. “The scanning of these older films allows the radiologists to compare apples to apples. It makes the Throughout the second week in December Women’s Imaging Center films more consistent.” staff participated in a week of training with an Hologic applications speIn addition, ImageCheckerTM CAD computer software was purchased, cialist. adding a secondary detection to assist radiologists in comparing the By offering women the latest technology in mammography, the staff at mammography studies. the Women’s Imaging Center hopes to increase the number of women in the area who follow the recommendations for regular screenings. One “This new digital technology will provide both accuracy and increased continued next page convenience of digital mammography is the reduction in the need for ease of use for our patients.” says Tim Ingram, This newsletter is a publication of the Community Relations & Development Department at Stephens Memorial Hospital. For more information please visit our website at www.wmhcc.org

www.centralmainetoday.com

January 2011

Oxford Hills Observer

Page 9

www.centralmainetoday.com

SMH Thrift Shop Receives Facelift

(Digital Mammography continued)

When shoppers and volunteers returned to the Stephens Memorial Director of Clinical Diagnostics.

Hospital Thrift Shop following the annual holiday closure, they entered “Providing outstanding diagnostic equipment for patients is a vital step into a building which was lighter and brighter. to good preventive health, and one we take very seriously.”

In addition to new paint, lights, and window treatments some operational changes were made. The 10 cent room has been eliminated, pro“There are many advantages to a viding more room to offer merchandise of better quality. New racks were digital system. The images are clear also added for shoppers’ convenience. and easy to read, and it offers an The Thrift Shop welcomes donations of clean, gently worn clothing for men, women and children during their normal hours of operation; Thursday and Friday from 10:30 am to 3:30 pm and on Saturday from 10:30 am to 1 pm at 8 Danforth St. Thrift Shop volunteers provide a receipt for clothing donations for tax purposes upon request.

The Thrift Shop has served the local community for decades by providing clothing at low prices. Proceeds from the Thrift Shop benefit the Stephens Memorial Hospital Annual Fund to purchase hospital equipment and/or support programs.

L-R: Dawn Derenberger, RTRM, Eileen Laliberte, RTRM, Rhonda Tibbetts, RTRM, Jean Foster, RTRM from the Women’s Imaging Department attend training for the new equipment.

excellent view of the breast. The digital image is ready to read much faster than with traditional x-rays. There is no longer a wait for films to be developed to be sure the images are usable. Digital mammograms take as little as half the time of film. And from a patient safety standpoint it uses less radiation exposure.” This digital mammography equipment was funded in part by donations to the 2008 Annual Fund.

SMH Women’s Imaging Center Open House January 22 10 am - noon

The Thrift Shop would not be possible without 30 dedicated volunteers who devote hours of their time each week to sort, prepare and sell merchandise.

MMC/Tufts Program Helps Breed Family of Physicians When Dr. Robert Neilson came to Norway in 2007, his son Mike, was living life on the West Coast, working in the film industry. No one would have guessed, nearly 4 years later, that Mike would return to Maine and enter medical school.

Robert Neilson, D.O. is a general surgeon on staff at Stephens Memorial Hospital (SMH). He is one of a trio of physicians that comprise Western Maine Surgery in Norway. Neilson joined the staff in 2007, following nearly 22 years of practice in Portland.

Mike is the middle of three children, with two sisters. He grew up in Portland schools and went to Wesleyan University, majoring in history.

Following graduation Mike went to Los Angeles for four years. He was working in the film industry, when he decided it wasn’t for him, and made a career change to become an aide for a physical therapist.

It was at this point that Mike decided what he wanted to do. He wanted to get into medicine. He spent the next couple of years taking pre-requisites at various colleges, and in 2009 he moved back to Maine to apply to medical schools.

The Maine Medical Center/Tufts University School of Medicine (MMC.TUSM) Rural Medicine Clerkship Program was in its infancy when Mike moved back to Maine. However, along with applying to schools in Chicago and California, Mike took a chance on the new program. He was accepted, and more importantly, he received a scholarship, a point which he explains will help make a difference in where he is able to practice after he graduates from medical school.

Both have positive feedback on the MMC/Tufts program, interestingly from a physician, parent, and student standpoint. Dr. Neilson shares, “I’m pleased more that Mike is so excited about the program than anything. I had no idea that he would take this path, he found it on his own and it’s great.” Mike explains that the “MaineTrack people love the program, the scholarships are phenomenal and the time that the physicians in Maine are taking to teach and really see us succeed is great. The staff is generous in their time and attention and really focus on our learning.”

As far as following in his father’s footsteps, Mike states, “I never thought about it until after I was away from home, but then something clicked. It has been really nice, in going through this program, and the classes, and clinics, to be able to call him up and say, so what’s your take on this?”

He shares getting his father’s thoughts on the differences of urban and rural practice as well as various specialties, will be valuable as well.

In another connection to the MMC/Tufts program, eventually Dr. Neilson will be part of the teaching faculty at SMH in the upcoming years as the program grows. He shares, “The Medical Staff here at SMH is very positive and excited about the program. There is a lot of ownership being the first rural site.”

Mike adds, “The physicians we are working with are great, which is one big reason that all of the MaineTrack students are so excited to be learning in these great communities.”

L-R –Robert Neilson, D.O.,Mike Neilson, Peggy Neilson

WINTER Safety Tips From Dr. Chagrasulis!

Here’s a story that I hope will help readers in preventing a trip to the Emergency Department. One winter in particular that I recall, we had a fair amount of rain that froze. This resulted in a lot of icy sidewalks and driveways. Then, a small amount of snow would fall. Everyone would go out in the morning to start their cars, and boom, down they would go.

We were seeing a big increase in visits for folks who fell on the ice.

The problem with this type of fall is that your feet go out from under you, and you crack the back of your head. This can result in concussions, lacerations, occasionally severe head injuries, and even injured neck or back. Not to mention broken and sprained wrists, shoulders, and knees.

The lesson here is BE CAREFUL. Make sure you really watch your step, and treat the slippery surfaces with sand or salt so you won’t end up on your back. Shoes with good treads also help.

Another important winter problem is hypothermia. I know it sounds silly to remind people to have warm hats, gloves, and boots.

But, when your car ends up in a ditch (let’s hope that doesn’t happen, but we all know it can), you can be outside waiting for a wrecker, police, or someone to come get you. It doesn’t take long when it’s cold outside for your body temperature to drop. So, make sure you not only bundle up when you go out, but have nice warm outer clothing and boots in your car in case of emergency.

www.centralmainetoday.com

Page 10

Oxford Hills Observer

January 2011

www.centralmainetoday.com

What’s Your Question?

John McDonald

It happens all the time.

Well, maybe not every time, but it happened this time and at least one other time, I think.

This time it happened right after last week’s informative column on the Braddock Device, or "foot thingy" hit the streets. We always say "hit the streets" in the newspaper business.

I guess we don’t say it as much anymore, in these urbane, enlightened, and digitalized times we live in but we used to say it a lot.

Anyway, soon after that column appeared in print I began getting e-mails from readers telling me – in effect – how much they enjoyed the column and how glad they were to learn about the strange-looking device shoe people use to measure feet. Typical was this from Jack in Skowhegan.

He writes: "John, leave it to you to take on the tough topics. Who else would tell us about things we wonder about but never take the time to ask about? Usually I only thought about the ‘foot thingy’ when I was buying

shoes and was asked to put my left heel in the place marked ‘left heel.’ The salesman was always so busy I didn’t want to bother him by asking: ‘What do you call this crazy-looking thing?’ In that column, John, you also mentioned the Maine invention called the ‘peavey.’

"At first I thought you were trying to be funny, implying a Mainer was responsible for coining the word that describes the feeling of being ‘peeved’ or ‘peevish’ or ‘peevey.’ As you might have guessed, I’m not from Maine and have only lived here six years but I’ve never heard of this ‘peavey’ you speak of and would like to know more. It would be nice, the next time I’m down at the store here in Skowhegan, to be able to use the word ‘peavey’ in a sentence to show all the native Mainers who gather there each morning that I’m finally becoming a real Mainer."

I don’t know if anything I tell you will help you with the folks down at the store, Jack, but I can tell you a little about the clever invention known as the peavey.

According to the official website of the Peavey Manufacturing Company in Eddington (www.peaveymfg. com) the company meets the "special needs" of the

rings with a driven pick.

I have no idea what that means but I’m sure you’re as impressed as I am with how clever it sounds.

Do I get the same feeling when I see an ad for the Clapper on TV? I don’t think so Just memorize these facts and then recite them back to the folks down at the store, Jack. I’ll bet they’ll be some impressed.

(Photo credit to mylargescale.com) forest industry with quality tools, handles and dowels.

It even claims it can make a handle to fit each individual need and says its pick pole gives pick pole operators the most positive grip available anywhere. That right there should impress the doubters down at the store, Jack.

Up around Bangor they like to tell what’s known as the Peavey Story. It was the spring of 1857 when Joseph Peavey made his first tool to be known as the peavey. Old timers still sit

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around and talk about the time in Stillwater when a log drive became hung up on a branch of the mighty Penobscot River. Peavey was already well known around Bangor as a clever Mainer who was always inventing things.

Like what? You ask.

Well, he invented a special hoist, for one. It was used for pulling stumps out of the ground. He also invented the first hay press (for wrinkled hay), the first wood screw vise (for whatever), and the first un-

spillable inkwell. George Peavey wasn’t like some of the crazy inventors we have today. You’d never see George trying to invent something like the Clapper, the In-the-Shell Egg Scrambler, no siree. George Peavey invented good, solid, useful things that made the world a better place – at least the world of the logger.

The historic day Peavey made his specially designed log prying tool, his peavey, they say he used a solid socket in place of toe

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January 2011

Oxford Hills Observer

Nothin’ But Small Talk…Get Fit to Ride!

Jess Small

riding not so enjoyable.

Your horse’s way of going and soundness can also be affected when you are unfit and unbalanced. It will be more difficult to control your horse when you don’t use your muscles properly to give them the correct cues.

To be a good rider you must be a good athlete, despite what people say about the horse doing all the work. Riding usually uses the shoulders, triceps, biceps, abdominals, back, inner and outer thighs, and the back of the calf. A good cardio workout, stretching, and strength training will get you fit during your off time. You can go to the gym to get these workouts, set up a strength program with a fitness instructor, and take a step, yoga, Pilates, or Tai Chi class. You can also get a good workout at home.

A great leg and calf workout involves just your stairs at home. You can walk up and down them to work your legs, and then stand on the

With any new sport or physical activity you take up, you must get in shape, just like with horseback riding. Horseback riding for me isn’t new, but from November till March my barn and riding time is very limited thanks to our lovely long, cold, and snowy winter. For the new riders or the ones who take some months off, there is lots you can do to get in shape so that first real ride of the spring isn’t so painful!

A fit rider is also better for the horse, too. A rider who is fit and toned will feel lighter and more comfortable on a horse’s back compared to an unfit rider who is sloppy in the saddle. In addition, poor posture, muscle imbalances, and lack of fitness can make

edge with just your toes on the stair and stretch your leg down and lower your heels.

You should feel a stretch in your calf and hold for ten seconds. Do this to start for 15 times a day until it’s easy then increase by 5 reps and so on.

You can use a beach ball or workout ball that’s at least a foot in diameter. Sit on a hard chair with your knees at a right angle to the floor.

Place the ball between your knees, squeezing, and hold for 15 seconds and release.

Do this thirty times until it becomes easier, increase by 10 reps, and so forth.

Abs are crucial to riding correctly and properly. To strengthen your abs, spend 2 to 5 minutes three or more times a week doing sit ups and other abdominal exercises. Make sure to work the upper and lower abs and do not strain your neck or back.

“The Plank” is a great ab workout where you start in a push-up position but with your forearms on the floor.

Tom Hutchinson of Bethel competes in long distance competitions at competitive trail and endurance rides with his Arabian horses. Staying fit is key to both his and his horse’s success and is vital to every rider, no matter what they do!

Hold yourself up with your forearms and with balls of your feet the only things

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touching the floor. Hold for 15 seconds and repeat. As the exercise gets easier you can increase your reps. A modified version is to have your knees on the floor and forearms holding up your upper body.

For your upper body a small set of weights is a great way to tone your biceps and triceps, as well as your shoulders. Pushups with your arms wide are great for the chest and shoulders. Bring your arms close together and keep elbows pointed in to get a great triceps workout. Make sure you learn how to properly use your weights by taking a class at a gym or by working with a personal trainer.

Stretch, stretch, stretch!

Always stretch before and after exercising and riding!

Be sure to stretch each muscle for at least 30 seconds, especially focusing on your legs, which have the biggest

muscles. Yoga is a great way to stretch your entire body.

Horseback riding will show you muscles that you never thought you had so strengthening and stretching will help prevent the soreness.

Last but not least, Cardio!

No matter if you trail ride or show in the ring, increase your stamina by strengthening your heart muscle. Running, power walking, jumping rope, and step classes are all great ways to increase your cardio level.

So what are you waiting for? Start now and be a better rider come spring and look better too! Make sure to contact a personal trainer to get advice and learn the proper ways of exercising.

They can also set up a training program to meet your goals. Make 2011 the year that you will be in the best shape and taking your riding to a new level. n

Gym Tots

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Tumble Tots for ages 3-5 years and Soft Play class for 1-3 years will start the week of January 3 at Gymnastics Plus in Oxford. For more information or to enroll Call 539-4111.

Page 12

Oxford Hills Observer

Fun and Focus: New Activities at Hebron Academy

Just in time for exams and the holiday season, Hebron Academy is offering some new ways for students to improve their focus and learn new skills.

Recently, yoga teacher Chris Harris from Norway, Maine, began a weekly class for students and faculty in Hebron’s new athletic center. The class is available to students interested in improving strength and flexibility. While learning more about the dynamics of breath, poses and balance, students are also finding a level of relaxation and comfort during these rigorous yoga sessions. Class participants come from all grades and across the continents and include faculty members.

“What’s been exciting is the variety of students taking advantage of this course. They come with different ideas and goals -- from the very germane or academic to the strongly athletic -- and it works its magic for most all of them,” said organizer and faculty member Julie Middleton.

With Hebron coaches extolling the benefits of this kind of cross training, several of Hebron’s varsity athletes are taking advantage of the extra conditioning yoga offers. Football and basketball player Bobby Coleman, a junior from Chestnut Hill, Mass., intends to become a regular in the class. He has had yoga experience before coming to Hebron, and is glad of its availability for two reasons: “In general, it makes me feel better physically, and more relaxed.

I also notice that there is more clarity when I’m done, which helps with my studying.”

Additionally, Hebron Academy foreign language teacher Cynthia Marsden and current junior Lindsey Hughes, of Hebron, have started a weekly meditation group, which offers students

January 2011

www.centralmainetoday.com

an alternative way of dealing with stress. “We live in a fast-paced environment.

There is a lot of support at Hebron and the great small class size, yet we are all still so busy,” says Marsden. “I want to teach students techniques they can use to overcome challenging situations wherever they go in life.”

The class has started with different relaxation exercises and will go on to specific forms of dealing with stress in any setting.

Both activities are extracurricular and optional, but

the themes of balance and teaching practical skills go along with the school’s philosophy of L.I.F.E. (Living In a Friendly Environment).

Although the popularity of these offerings may lessen after the exam period, there is no plan to discontinue them for the duration of the school year. “It’s clear there are life benefits being offered and as long as there is interest, we will gladly support these kinds of activities at Hebron Academy,“ said Head of School John King. n

Nominations Sought for Volunteerism Awards Recognize volunteers who make a difference in your community, nominate them for a Governor’s Award for Service and Volunteerism! The nomination deadline is February 1, 2011. For details and to submit official nominations, please visit www.VolunteerMaine.org.

For the past twenty-four years, these awards have celebrated and recognized the exemplary work of Maine’s volunteers while shining a light on the impact of volunteerism statewide.

The award program is administered for the Governor’s Office by the Maine Commission for Community Service. This year we are excited to announce two new award categories focused on Service Learning. Award categories are as follows: Awards for Groups or Organizations School District Excellence in Service Learning: Recognizes excellence in Service Learning implementation by a K-12 school district.

Small Business Volunteerism Award: Recognizes a small business that participates in the community through volunteerism and community service projects having a significant impact on local residents.

Corporate Volunteerism

Award: Recognizes a corporation that demonstrates volunteer leadership and/ or whose employees’ volunteer service significantly improves the quality of life in the community.

Maine’s Outstanding Non-Profit Award: Recognizes a non-profit organization (501(c)3), municipality, or government program that has made significant changes and improvements in the condition of the community as a result of their volunteer service.

Awards for Individuals Volunteer of the Year: Recognizes an individual who has provided significant service to his/her community through volunteerism and serves as a role model to the people in his/ her community.

Youth Volunteer of the Year: Recognizes an individual under the age of 20 who has contributed to the life of someone in his/ her community or to the improvement of the community through volunteer efforts.

National Service Volunteer Award: Recognizes an individual who has demonstrated outstanding commitment and service over and above the requirements of their routine service assignments as a Senior Corps, AmeriCorps, *VISTA or Learn and Serve

participant.

Outstanding Service Learning Practitioner: Recognizes excellence in Service Learning implementation by an educator, service learning coordinator, or other practitioner in the field of K-12 Service Learning.

Outstanding Volunteer in a Public Sector Volunteer Program: Recognizes an individual volunteering under the auspices of a public agency. The recipient will demonstrate effectiveness, commitment and significant contributions to meeting a local or statewide need.

Excellence in Volunteer Administration: Recognizes excellence in leadership of volunteers and administration of a volunteer program by a salaried or nonsalaried professional who works with volunteers to provide service to others.

Roll of Honor: Maine is fortunate to have hundreds of citizens who dedicate their time and energy to helping others on a regular basis. The Roll of Honor recognizes volunteers who donate 500 hours of documented service to the community during the past twelve months.

For details and to submit official nominations, please visit www.VolunteerMaine. org. n

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January 2011 Jodi Cornelio

Typically this time of year I write about New Year’s resolutions and selfimprovements as it pertains to fitness and nutrition. We all know there is more to wellness then just fitness and nutrition – there is emotional wellness, spiritual wellness, financial and social wellness. In this passing year of 2010, I find it very important to share what this all means to me in one word, “caring.”

I eagerly welcome 2011.

As many of you know, most of 2010 was a challenging year for me. I just want to thank my family, friends and the many clients and readers for the support and caring shown to me

Oxford Hills Observer

Ask the Trainer - Caring throughout 2010 in this difficult time. And as a tribute to all of you I wish to share this one story from many acts of caring and kindness that has been shown to me over the past year.

As part of my diversion from my personal dilemma that was presented to me in 2010 I decided to take on yet another challenge by studying and completing my first year nursing clinical with my “OLDER” sister. First of all, I will always cherish the tremendous bonding experience that I had with my sister in clinical. The other meaningful part that I learned in clinical is that even when you think you are dealing with the most tragic episode in your life there are others who are worst off, and I grew to appreciate that I am still very fortunate to have the life I have and the cards that have been dealt to me and I never will take that for granted, now.

I have a lot of respect for all you nurses out there; first year clinical wasn’t easy. One of our class assignments involved listening skills, and each pair of students was asked a question which one was to answer while the other was to maintain and demonstrate “active listening skills.”

Well, my sister and I were paired up, center stage in front of the other 40 or so students. The question that

Wing Promoted to Director of Operations Legacy Publishing Company, the Maine-based producer and publisher of personal development products for families, is pleased to announce that it has promoted Ryan Wing from Operations Manager to Director of Operations.

In his new role, Wing will continue to oversee the technical operations for Legacy’s Westbrook and Auburn offices as well as take on more responsibility streamlining the company’s operations systems.

“For the past six months, Ryan has demonstrated excellent management ability, a high level of technical knowledge and prompt attention to the needs of Legacy’s employees,” says Steve Anderson, Founder and CEO of the company.

“We appreciate that Ryan’s focus is good communica-

Page 13

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tion and relationships between all company departments and operations, and feel that he is amply ready to take on this new role.”

In addition to managing all the operational and technological needs of the company, Wing also received advance phone system training and is slated to upgrade the company’s OLCC database. Wing has more than 10 years experience as a Network Administrator and Operations Manager at Yankee Microwave in Harrison. From a position heading the computer drafting department for US Border Patrol communications jobs, Wing worked his way up to become Network Administrator and then Operations Manager at that company. He also spent time working inventory control at Apple.

Wing himself relishes the challenge of taking on more responsibility soon after arriving at Legacy Publishing. “My goal has been to make everything run as seamlessly as possible here at Legacy. I’m eager to be given the chance to come up with real solutions that will enhance the company’s operations.”

“We are excited to have Ryan assume this important new role on our team and looking forward to his continued journey of success and growth with Legacy,” says Anderson.

Ryan Wing is originally from South Paris, Maine.

He currently resides in Scarborough with his wife. He is a graduate of the University of Southern Maine. n

Harvest Banquet

came up on the screen directed at me was “Explain the most recent experience where you truly felt cared for.” As I looked at the question and thought how truly blessed I was to have so many caring people in my life, my friends, my family the staff at CMMC and Turner Publishing and the many clients and readers who demonstrated they cared in my time of need, I stared back at my sister and

mumbled, “I can’t talk.”

Through my watery, bloodshot eyes my sister could see I was begging her to rescue me as I was about to burst into tears…..As her eyes began to fill with water, she stared back at me and said, “Jodi, don’t you dare start crying on me.” In the next passing 2 seconds she saw that that didn’t help me.

And then she quickly said, “Jodi, tell me about one of your experiences growing up on the farm.” I do have many funny childhood stories but all I could think of was that I came from such a loving, caring family, and the tears got worse as I tried to choke them back and then I mumbled again, “That’s not helping.” I kept thinking, Tina why don’t you just kick me or something and call me baby or a brat for crying. Oh no, not my sister, she loudly said, “Jodi! Did I tell how this morning I got dressed in such a hurry at 4am to make

it to class that I put my underwear on backwards,” she flew up out of her chair and continued to say, “It’s a thong and its killing me!”

Well, if that’s not a visual that would stop a bank robber. There was a brief moment of silence and then the entire class began to laugh.

All the attention was off me and on her. Now that’s taking it for the team. “Sista,” God bless you, you’ll make a fine nurse. Needless to say, we did not pass that assignment that day, but my appreciation for my sister, my family and friends and all the caring people who have rescued me grew stronger. I’m truly blessed and I wish you all a Happy and Caring New Year.

Live Long, Live Well Jodi R. Cornelio AS, BA, MBA Nutritionist, Personal Trainer n

Rainbow Helping to End Hunger

Rainbow FCU gives to local food pantries this Holiday Season. Local organizations within the Oxford and Androscoggin areas received checks to help stock their shelves so that they can help those families that have a hard time to put food on their tables.

Rainbow does what they can to help those that truly need assistance. From left: Phil Moreau, President Rainbow FCU; Jeremy Corbally Hammond, Good Shepherd Food Bank; Br. Irenee Richard, St Martin de Porres Residence; Lt. Jason Brake, Salvation Army; John Robbins, Hope Haven Gospel Mission; Laura Zimmerman, Rural Community Action Ministry, Erin Reed, Trinity Church Jubilee Center; Sharon Bazinet, Poland Community Church Food Bank; Mary Ellingwood, St. Mary's Food Bank. Not in the photo but also receiving a check was Oxford SDA Food Pantry. Also in the photo were other volunteers and families.

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www.cartersxcski.com • Open 7 Days a week Nolan Kii gyle'arid Dakota Larson, culinary arts students from Oxford Hills Comprehensive High School, serve their delicious fare to Jess and Phil Richardson, who attended the banquet.

Nancy Hanson, administrator of Oxford Hills Christian Academy, places a bid on an item during the silent auction segment of the evening.

On November 13, Oxford Hills Christian Academy held its 3rd annual Harvest Banquet and Auction at the Four Seasons Banquet Center on Main St. in So. Paris. The evening began with appetizers served during the course of

er Joe Cormier. Auctioneer Jerry Major then led the remainder of the evening in a live auction. Over a hundred items were donated from area businesses and auctioned off. The money raised from the event was to help with operating ex-

a silent auction, then continued with a buffet meal prepared and served by culinary arts students from Oxford Hills Comprehensive High School as part of their senior project. Entertainment was provided by vocalist and keyboard play-

penses of the academy.

Oxford Hills Christian Academy is a multi-denominational private school offering grades K-12 in the Oxford Hills area. For more information about the school, contact the office at 743-5970.

www.centralmainetoday.com

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Page 14

Oxford Hills Observer

Newest Rotary Member

The Oxford Hills Rotary welcomes one of its newest members, Joel Speakman, a financial planner for Edward Jones. Joel is also a competetive cyclist, avid skier and is a certified Six Sigma Black belt. The club is happy to have a new member with such drive and energy and believe Joel will be a great asset to the club and community. On left OH Rotary President Joelle Corey Whitman.

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Oxford Hills Students

Patiently awaiting the delicious meal! Seated around the table, left to right: Teddy Doyle, Marc Wagner, Owen Wheeler, Abigail Hanson, Ashley Richardson, Juliese Padget, and Ada-Marie Hoyt.

Alan Carr serves turkey to Teddy Doyle, a first grader at OHCA.

Students from Oxford Hills Christian Academy were treated to Thanksgiving meal with all the fixings

tasty meal. Oxford Hills Christian Academy is a multi-denominational private schools serving grades

recently. Parent volunteers prepared the meal, and the So. Paris Baptist Church provided the facility for the

K-12 in South Paris. For more information, contact the office at 743-5970. n

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January 2011

www.centralmainetoday.com

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January 2011

Oxford Hills Observer

Page 15

www.centralmainetoday.com

Take-a-Chance Auction

Paris Public Library's Geo-Kids' Brazilian Project Rebecca LaBossier holds a poster of Brazil's Amazon Forest layers (emergent, canopy, understory and forest floor) made by her sons Carter and Hunter, standing to the right. After an oral presentation by Carter and Hunter, who explained the rain forest's layers and told

of the creatures inhabiting each layer, the boys passed out pictures of cut -out creatures for other Geo-Kids to place on the correct layer.

Rosy Gordon tapes a spider on the forest floor. Observing in the foreground are Aaron, Elijah, and Christine Nason.

Paris Public Library's Homeschooled Geo- Kids meet the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month at 10:30 am. In January, the country visited will be Paraguay in South America. For further information, please contact The Paris Public Library at 743-8994. n

Aaron's donated this recliner and then Doris Dean won the chair.. From left to right in the first picture is Alton Chesley (Aaron's), Cynthia Ouellette (auction chairperson) and Steve Hinkle (Aaron's). In the second picture is Doris Dean sitting in her comfortable recliner in her living room.

To Oxford County residents: I want to personally thank the community for its out pouring of generosity. Our Auction was a huge success. This wouldn’t have been possible if not for all the generous donations, all the hard work of 4-H volunteers and the great turnout we had the day of the auction.

The money we raised will help provide a lot of programs for the 4-H youth of Oxford County.

Please patronize all the businesses that donated gift certificates and let them know that you are with or support 4-H and appreciate their efforts to sponsor such a great organization.

Again I want To THANK everybody who was involved with the 4-H Leaders Associations Take-a-Chance Auction. Hope to see you again next year.

Direct Mail Works!

Call Turner Publishing Today!

225-2076

Cynthia Ouellette 4-H What Ever Club leader Auction Chairperson n

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We’ve gone to great lengths to make joint replacement easier for you. Every step of your treatment, including pre and post-op care, happens right here in Norway. Here, you’ll find nurses and physical therapists trained in joint replacement care, orthopedic surgeons who are among the best in the field, and the equipment and state-of-the-art technology used in other major hospitals. Best yet, we offer Joint Camp workshops to provide you with everything you need to know before and after surgery for a successful, speedy recovery. To take a step toward a life without pain, ask your primary care physician for more information or visit www.wmhcc.com.

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Page 16

Oxford Hills Observer www.centralmainetoday.com

January 2011

Oxford Elementary Students Enjoy RIF Program

Another great start to the RIF program at Oxford Elementary School. RIF volunteers Tina and Lucy get ready for the free book distribution though the Reading is Fundemental national program that the Oxford Hills School District takes part in.

A non-profit organization that has provided free legal help for Maine residents aged 60 and older since 1974

Call 1-800-750-5353

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225-2076

We want to hear from YOU!

Send in photos of your children or grandchildren - no matter what their age!

Mail your submissions to: Turner Publishing PO Box 214, Turner, ME 04282, or email to: articles@ turnerpublishing.net

From Pre-K all the way up through 6th grade, children at Oxford Elementary enjoy receiving their new books from RIF. Each child in the school was given the opportunity to chose one book from the wide variety that was donated by the Reading is Fundemental program.

Jane has many years experience serving the healthcare needs of women. Birth control counseling, gynecologic exams, and menopause care are among her specialties.

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And Blue Moon Midwives & Women’s Health Services’ afliation with Central Maine Medical Center helps assure that her patients get the care they deserve should any special needs be identied.

Call Blue Moon at 739-2800 to schedule an appointment.

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225-2076 www.centralmainetoday.com