In February 1933, Franklin Roosevelt and Frances Perkins met in Roosevelt’s New York City home. The president-elect wanted his colleague in the New York state government to become the nation’s secretary of labor. Perkins would not accept this position unless she could pursue the goals important to her. These goals were breathtaking. The list included a minimum wage, maximum-hour laws, workers’ compensation, unemployment compensation, a public employment service, public works, a child labor ban, health insurance, and old age pensions.
Net Metering
On July 22, the governor’s energy office recommended to the Maine Public Utilities Commission that net metering be discontinued as soon as possible. Net metering is the only Maine incentive that we have to install solar panels and thus help cut our dependence on fossil fuels. The rest of the New England states have given their citizens many reasons to go solar.
Hodgdon Green Happenings
There is a new look at Hodgdon Green – an attractive and convenient front walkway and steps. Rego Stoneworks, of Alna, provided the craftsmen, and their work is contributing to the safety of residents and visitors alike as they enter this gracious home.
Long Cove
This is going to be another one of those bear-with-me kinds of columns as I am two weeks out and, being the summer season, there is a lot to report on. So here we go!
View From Over the Hill Surviving Hard Times
Right in the depths of the Great Depression, my folks bought this farm for $658 with a 15-year mortgage. That took courage when things were so desperate. Then voila! Pearl Harbor was attacked and we were at war overnight with hiring calls out to all skills. Pappa landed a job at Hyde Windlass in West Bath. We were suddenly in cash and so was everyone else. I remember Pappa’s check after deductions was $72.50 a week, honest to God.
Marilyn Beane’s World
Hi! Dear readers! Here is Marilyn Beane’s World coming to you with more news about my sweetheart’s and my life at Crawford Commons Assisted Living, 132 Middle Rd., Union, ME 04862.
Westport Island
Do you have kids or grandkids who love history? Have they read all of Lea Wait’s stories about Wiscasset? The Lincoln County Historical Society is running one more week of its Summer with the Past educational programs, and this last one – at the 1811 Jail in Wiscasset – is coming up next week! Louise Miller is a fantastic educator, bringing a lot of experience from museums and school programs in American history. The Old Jail program is full of activities, and reading is geared for children from eight to 10 years old. The session is Monday-Friday, Aug. 8-12, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., and there is a fee of $115 (or $105 for LCHA members).
Rachel Carson Area
A few days ago, we went to Rockland. The roads are still being worked on but are getting better. Traffic was heavy, but nonetheless better than the last time we were there. We stopped at the Old School House vegetable stand on the way home and purchased some fresh green beans and peas to shell and eat for supper. They were very good.
Maine Can Seize Economic Opportunity by Working its Advantages
Mainers are known for our resourcefulness, practicality, and ingenuity. It’s time we applied those qualities to taking a new look at where our economic opportunities exist, and how we can seize them.
Just a Thought
The main purpose of a business is to direct its efforts and funds into enterprises that will make money. The main purpose of government is to direct its efforts and funds toward solving pressing problems that could be anything from fighting terrorists to fixing all the potholes in the town streets. Not much profit to be made there. The two investments are obviously at cross purposes.
Round Pond Schoolhouse Association
On Thursday, Aug. 4, the Round Pond Schoolhouse Association will host its final Old Fashioned Beano Night of the season from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the historic Washington Schoolhouse in Round Pond. Members of the public are invited to come see why the schoolhouse’s Beano nights have been attracting record crowds this summer. Join master Beano caller George Sawyer, of New Harbor, as he announces the numbers for this family favorite. Prizes will be awarded Yankee Swap-style.
Nature Notes Nine in a Line
The nine ducks in a line we see along the river shore at Schooner Cove began last spring as two female black ducks and a drake mallard. A successful mating and nesting, and now they are teaching a full flotilla to feed on nature’s bounty.
Waste Watch
Once again, thanks for the organics. Although the tubs can get a little smelly in the heat, getting organics out of our waste stream is an important recycling tool. The amount of organics continues to increase. Keep up the good work.
Somewhere in Somerville
I took up a new hobby on Saturday. Hunting. No, not our little furry and feathered friends. No, not Pokemon. We don’t have any of those in Somerville. Just ask my daughter and one of our neighbors. My daughter has taken to riding with me wherever I go and has figured out how to load up on Poke balls without me having to pull over every 1,000 yards once we hit civilization. And one of my neighbors has posted a sign at the end of their drive: “no Pokemon here!”
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