Dexter Community Farm Project

USDA Extends Conservation Stewardship Program Sign-Up to January 27

2012-01-17T08:32:00.001-08:00

Dover-Foxcroft, ME – January 13, 2012 – USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) State Conservationist Juan Hernandez has announced that the cut-off date for the current Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) ranking period has been extended to January 27, 2012. Producers who maintain a high level of conservation on their land and agree to adopt higher levels of stewardship are eligible for CSP payments.

“We want to make sure that people who want to be considered for CSP during this first ranking period have the time they need to complete their applications,” Hernandez said. “CSP is a very popular program and I encourage interested producers to apply at their local NRCS office as soon as they can.”

Administered by NRCS, CSP provides many conservation benefits including improved water and soil quality, enhanced wildlife habitat and conservation activities that address the effects of climate change.

Producers are encouraged to apply for CSP throughout the year to be considered for current and future application ranking periods. Those who apply by January 27, 2012, may be eligible for current available funding. Eligible lands include cropland, pastureland, rangeland and nonindustrial forestland.

A CSP self-screening checklist is available to help producers determine if CSP is suitable for their operation. The checklist highlights basic information about CSP eligibility requirements, contracts obligations and potential payments. It is available from the Dover-Foxcroft NRCS office and at http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/main/national/programs/financial/csp.

Landowners can sign up for this program at the Dover-Foxcroft USDA Service Center/Natural Resources Conservation Service office, at 42 Engdahl Drive, Pine Crest Business Park, Dover-Foxcroft, Monday - Friday, 8am - 4:30pm. For more information about CSP and other NRCS conservation programs, visit the Piscataquis County USDA Service Center at 42 Endgahl Drive, Pine Crest Business Park, Dover-Foxcroft, call 564-2321, or go to www.me.nrcs.usda.gov.

USDA Accepting Applications for Irrigation Assistance

2012-01-17T08:30:00.001-08:00

Dover-Foxcroft, – The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in Maine has announced that they have received Fiscal Year 2012 Agricultural Management Assistance (AMA) program funds for irrigation assistance to private landowners in Maine. Approximately $294,000 will be made available to both large- and small-scale irrigators. The deadline for applications is February 10, 2012.

AMA, administered by NRCS, is available in 16 states where participation in the Federal Crop Insurance Program is historically low. AMA assists agricultural producers to manage risk and voluntarily address issues such as water management, water quality, and erosion control by incorporating conservation practices into their farming operations.

“This program gives landowners an additional opportunity to construct or improve their water management structures and to mitigate risk through production diversification or resource conservation practices,” said Juan Hernandez, State Conservationist for NRCS in Maine. “This will benefit not only the landowner, but their neighbors and community as well.”

Under AMA, contracts will have a one to ten-year contract period, and the practices must be maintained for the life of the practice. There is a $50,000 per year payment limitation per participant.

The sign-up for AMA is available on a continuous basis. Landowners can sign up for this program at the Piscataquis County USDA Service Center/Natural Resources Conservation Service office, located at 42 Engdahl Drive, Pine Crest Business Park, Dover-Foxcroft. Applications received by February 10, 2012 will be considered for funding in Fiscal Year 2012.

For additional information about the AMA program or for other NRCS conservation programs visit the Maine NRCS website at www.me.nrcs.usda.gov., or call the Dover-Foxcroft office at 564-2321, Monday - Friday, 8am-4:30pm.

meeting cancelled

2012-01-03T09:35:00.001-08:00

We are cancelling tonight's Dexter Community Farm Project/DRDC meeting. Some key people are sick, have other meetings, need more information and besides it is going to be COLD!
If you have any questions, always feel free to call or email me at judy@DexterFarmProject.com
Stay warm!!!

Thursday Update

2011-12-15T15:58:00.000-08:00

The Charleston Correctional Crew started to lay the recycled hardwood floor today upstairs. We are using the hardwood that was pulled up from the original floor and adding in the new hardwood that was milled and donated by Sam Brown. I told them they could design the floor the way they wanted, just use your creativity. As you can see they are using both. When it gets sanded and finished it will look awesome and be a one of a kind.

The guys started on the office side (towards Main Street side) and are doing as much as they can during the last 2 days of working at the Fossa Store.

They are a hard working bunch of guys and kuddos to Supervisor Neal Pinkerton!

I am so impressed with their work ethic and their respect they have shown me.

Boy am I going to missed them.

Thanks to all the farm friends who baked homemade sweets, oreos, coffee maker, etc. for the workers. They appreciate it so much. Kay Gray, Ray & Julie Belanger, Sandy Daigle, Tammy Lockhart all contributed to the "food/coffee" duty.
I went and bought more coffee supplies today and added a little Christmas cheer with candy canes & hard candy. Hope they like it!

Friday, December 16th is their last day, but they have done a lot in 7 days!!!

N. Pinkerton told me today that if the Charleston Crew has a day here or there this winter, they will call and work some more on the floor!
Love those guys....

On another note:

I am meeting with the original General Contractor and the roofing sub contractor on Friday to figure out the leaking problem!

It rained today so they will see all the problems. I did take pictures for them to see, but there isn't as much water as last weeks storm on the floor and on the walls.

Check out today's pictures...

Monday Update

2011-12-12T07:12:00.001-08:00

The Charleston crew is continuing to work on the 2nd floor (floor) and doing a great job. To date, they have about 2/3 of the main floor torn up and sub-floor laid. I just ordered 13 more sheets of CDX and another box of nails from Tillsons (who deliver to the door!).
I also put a couple nail guns on reserve from the Rental Center at Tillsons for the middle of the week for them. They are going to be at the Fossa Store all week! YEAH!
Anyone want to bake some cookies or brownies for the guys this week? Give me a call if anyone has time. They really appreciate it!!!
Also looking for a couple of those coffee vacuum bottles so I can make them coffee; or does anyone have an extra coffee maker? I just asked Neal if they could have coffee and he thought it was a great idea. Because of budget cuts, they don't get coffee at Charleston Correctional.
It is very cold in that building with no heat.
thanks,
judy

Friday update

2011-12-09T10:19:00.000-08:00

Charleston crew moving right along today!

Nice bunch of guys; 5 workers and Neal the supervisor. They gave me the 'shopping list' this morning and off to see Louie at Dexter Lumber to fill their order. Shovel, rock salt (for sidewalk), 6 x 6's, 200 board feet of pine, nails, etc.

On my way back, stopped and picked up a dozen donuts from the Bakery; gotta keep the guys happy :) They all thanked me a couple times each...

They will be back next week too and will starting to lay the hardwood flooring, piecemeal style, but it will be nice. (using what we recycled and some donated from Sam Brown).

Anyone else have any extra hardwood flooring they are not using? Give me a call! thanks

Went to the bank today to get some names changed on the account, but no, still don't have the right paperwork... geesh

Picked up a light book at Tillsons to find ideas for fixtures for the store.

Busy day...

Thursday Update

2011-12-08T10:01:00.000-08:00

Hi Farmers and friends,
Great week so far despite winter weather creeping in.
As I had mention earlier this week, Charleston Correction crew was coming next Monday, BUT I received a call Wednesday from SAm and he asked if it was alright if they started sooner? Guess what I said???
So here goes...

Met with the Charleston Correctional crew this morning at the Fossa Store. I got there at 8 am with Tim Breen and they finally arrived at 9 am. Darn slippery weather slowed them up a bit, but once there, the guys attacked the 1st floor ceiling for the "open ceiling" look taking out the nails quickly, while I was upstairs with Supervisor Neal. Tim & I explained what needed to be done and Neal saw no problem!

They bring their own tools but I order 15 more sheets of 1/2 CDX plywood and a box of nails which Tillsons delivered right to the door! Yeah for shopping local.... (for those of you wondering, the 2nd floor is being paid for by DRDC money and volunteers.) We will be moving the office furniture upstairs after it is done to make room for the downstairs work.

This afternoon the 5 man team tackled the 2nd floor "office/conference room" space and they are ripping up the old flooring down to the bare old boards and are laying the CDX subfloor over that. Remember, there were multiple layers of floors up there of all different materials.

Neil called later this afternoon with some questions and then told me they could work for the next week or so! WOW... and I thought we only had one day of work... So, after consulting with Dave P. and Roger B we are going to have them keep working on the floor laying down the hardwood flooring re-cylcing what Tim salvaged and bring in what Sam Brown donated (If i can get hold of him... Sam, give me a call?)

Yippee Skippee! What a great program Charleston Correctional has to help non profits. They do a great job too and are very cheery :) I am a happy camper.....

On another "sad" note, I did find bigger leak from the roof where the 2 buildings are attached AND on the other side where the delivery door & ice cream window is. Wet spots on the floor. NOT GOOD... the water is also in the basement which I assume is from the leak upstairs going down thru the wall. (good thing we don't have insulation and wall board done...)

I called Steve Wood our previous contractor, this morning when I found the leaks. If you remember I called a few months ago and they sent the subcontractor who did the roof last winter and thought they had it fixed. WRONG... I called again this afternoon and left another message, but hopefully they call back tomorrow. I will keep you informed

Good thing we didn't get the walls put in yet or we would of been in a big heap of ............

I talked with Jason B. today and I promised to have the last 2 material information things he needs to send out the RFP's; we made a deal that it is going to be out by the end of the year... only a few weeks away!

Well, that is it for now, but just wanted to keep you informed on the building status and the good news... If you have any questions please call me.
Stay warm,
Judy

-- 
Judy Wilbur Craig
Dexter Community Farm Project Coordinator
http://dexterfarmproject.blogspot.com
207.924.3067

Wednesday update:

2011-12-08T09:52:00.001-08:00

yeah! Charleston Correctional, who were coming next monday to do our 2nd story floor at the Fossa Store is coming tomorrow!!! they had an unexpected opening...
Ripping up the old hardwood uneven, different level old floor and vacuuming it generations of dirt and laying down 1/2 inch sub-floor.
I am psyched! Then we can move our office furniture upstairs and start working on the downstairs...

December update

2011-12-06T05:12:00.000-08:00

Greetings farmers and friends,

We will not be having a meeting tonight after consulting with Chair and Vice Chair Brawn and Pearson. Yes, things are moving along, but nothing pressing. December is a busy month!

Next Monday, the Charleston Correctional Crew will be working on the 2nd floor and hopefully we will be able to get the furniture upstairs after the subfloor is down.
I only have 2 more things to get to Jason and he will be finalizing the RFP's to finish the inside. I will have done this week!!!

I am working with a group from Maine Rural Partners and will serve on the Winter Marketing Leadership Group representing the farmers and our store in this area.
They wrote and received a grant that is going to:
The project goals are to:
1. Strengthen the connections and experience among growers, local and healthy food
advocates, institutions, crop advisers, business planners and lenders to grow year round
local food systems.
2. Couple smart energy season extension practices with market development, business
planning, financing and crop insurance strategies to manage risk.
3. Provide quality outreach and education using cutting‐edge season extension risk
management tools to Maine’s limited resource, underserved and socially disadvantaged
specialty crop producers.
4. Bring institutional food buyers and underserved growers together to understand one
another’s needs and create a plan for contracted purchasing.
5. Understand, document and share what works.

As a result we will:
1. Create a Guide to Winter Farmers’ Markets.
2. Develop the foundation for local sourcing of food at RSU#10 and St. Mary’s Hospital in
Lewiston, with a focus on building markets for Somali New American farmers.
3. Broadcast the program service opportunity across all outreach channels to reach all
4,000 specialty crop producers, and at least 255 will be served through workshops.
4. Meet with at least 15 underserved farmers to help these growers assess winter market
risks and decide whether or not to move forward with a business plan.
5. Create 10 viable season extension business plans that include energy management
provisions and a winter marketing strategy.
6. Position at least 6 underserved growers to enter the 2012–13 winter market who agree
to share results and lessons learned.

We will have a more detailed flyer to send out by the end of the week or so but in the meantime call me if you have questions or check out the online survey and fill out if you would like!!!
The survey is on survey monkey http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/winterfarmingapp

On a side note: My friend & long time DRDC Board member Darlene Bagley, husband is in the hospital and will be having "both" feet removed probably this week due to complications from diabetes. Greg had a kidney transplant a few years back and they are holding off on the life saving surgery until the kidney is free of infection. I am going to Bangor with Darlene today to meet with doctors, so I will not be available today for calls. Please keep Darlene and Greg in your thoughts and prayers and they brave thru this process. Thanks so much...

I will be back in the office tomorrow.
Judy

-- 
Judy Wilbur Craig
Dexter Community Farm Project Coordinator

Work Day

2011-10-14T14:31:00.001-07:00

Hi all,
we are going to have a workbee tomorrow morning, Saturday, October 15th at 10 am at the Fossa Store.
Tim Breen with some help from Dave, have been tearing up the 2nd story floor and now we need to clean it up.
Vacuuming between the rafters, bagging up debree and things like that... Not hard work, but just need a bunch of hands.
Can you volunteer a few hours???
We need to get at least the sub floor down so that we can move the desks upstairs before construction starts downstairs.
PLEASE can you help?
Thanks... call me if you can or email.... 924.3067 or just show up anytime after 10 am...
Judy

Extending the Gardening Season with Hoop Houses

2011-10-05T09:03:00.000-07:00

Dexter’s Jerry Doxtader returns as a presenter for the free workshop “Extending the Gardening Season with Hoop Houses”.

This last workshop of the season will be held at the Abbott Memorial Library meeting room, Dexter on Thursday, Oct. 20 6-8pm. Jerry will discuss the hoop houses he has made, their coverings, the vegetables he grows and how they are planted (container, in-ground, etc.).

Pre-registration is preferred by contacting the Library at 924-7292.

We plan to begin again in January. Your comments and suggestions are always welcome by emailing DDATT at dexterareatransition@gmail.com

Thank you for your support! AML and DDATT

1st Tuesday of the Month

2011-10-04T14:14:00.001-07:00

Reminder: it is the 1st Tuesday of the month and time for the monthly meeting of the Dexter Community Farm Project, 7 pm at the Fossa General Store.
We will be talking about the new USDA Grant we are applying for, the 2nd floor floor update, and building updates.
Remember there is no heat yet, so dress warm :)
Open to anyone interested whether they are farmers and or consumers!!!

Reminder to DRDC Board Members: special yearly meeting at 6 pm

Judy Wilbur Craig
Dexter Community Farm Project Coordinator
http://dexterfarmproject.blogspot.com
207.924.3067

latest news & goings on...

2011-09-15T06:33:00.000-07:00

Hi farmers and friends,
I thought I would update you on what we have been up to recently.
Last week we met at the Fossa Store for our 1st meeting at that location. Roger and I hooked up some temporary lights over our conference table so it was very cozy! We had both regular attendees as well as a new person and some that haven't attended in awhile. Good to see everyone.

Donna noticed in the back corner we had another 'wet area' in a wall panel that I addressed with GC Steve Wood on Thursday on location.

We discussed the pros and cons of different flooring, insulation choices and other building materials that need to be chosen soon before we put the bids packages out.
We are also looking for volunteers to help get the floor done on the 2nd floor so we can get our office furniture upstairs and be ready to start construction on the 1st floor. If you would like to help please email or call me.

Ernest Rollins invited us to have a table at Garland Days and Sandy Daigle volunteered to help me with that on Saturday, Sept 10th. FUN!

On Thursday, I met with Steve Wood to address the wet wall issue and he is contacting the subcontractor again to fix it. But he and some crew are coming soon to work on the siding with a special product (nails and sealer) provided by the siding manufacturer. They will go up on the roof and see what is causing the leak, but he thinks it may be where our building is joined by the building next door. They thought they had that fixed, but it may be seeping in and around the bricks on the building next door. Better to find out now and fix than later after the walls are put up.

Steve Wintle put together a last minute meeting with a couple GeoThermalrepsWednesday afternoon at the store. Roger, Fred S., Darlene and I are met them.
We would love to be as green as possible but it also has to be affordable. Steve is going to work up some figures and go from there, but it was very interesting to learn about another heat source.

I was invited by Carlee Davis of Mayo Hospital Diabetes Support Group to be the guest speaker at Dexter Health Care today to talk about the Dexter Community Farm Project. .... spreading the word!

Going to Garland Days..

2011-09-09T18:55:00.000-07:00

Hey Farmer friends,
Dexter Farm Project peeps are going to have an informational table at the Garland Days as they celebrate their 200th Birthday!
Sandy Keyte Daigle volunteered to come and help me tomorrow and we hope you and others will come and see us. It is supposed to be a great fall day and lots to do at Annual Garland Days!

1st meeting night at the store

2011-09-06T12:18:00.001-07:00

There is a meeting tonight of the Dexter Community Farm Project, 7 pm at the Fossa General Store on Main Street.

There will be 'mood lighting', but it should be cozy... Electrician Steve Herring put in a few electric boxes in last week (for free) so we could have power on the 1st and 2nd floors, so I am picking up another extension cord, some lights and we are good to go...

Bring an extra chair if you wish. we have 16 chairs, but if you have a 'special' chair that is already in your vehicle, feel free to bring it on it. We will not be doing coffee tonight, but will in the future.
We are going to form a few committees, get more people officially signed up to be DRDC members (so that you can officially vote) and talk about the status of the CDBG grant and the USDA grant that was just submitted.

I am excited that we are going to be at the store... Dont dress up (HAHAHA) it is a bit dusty from Tim working upstairs tearing the floor apart! Kuddos Tim, but we need some work days to give him a hand and get a partial floor done upstairs.

Extra flashlights might not be a bad idea tonight either if you want to roam around down in the basement.
Hope you see you there....
Judy

Beekeeping 101 Workshop by DATT

2011-08-08T06:46:00.000-07:00

Beekeeping 101, co-sponsored by Dexter's Abbott Memorial Library and DDATT, will be presented Thursday, August 25 6-8pm at the Abbott Memorial Library meeting room.
Leigh Wiley, a member of the Penquis Beekeepers, will discuss the basics of beekeeping: obtaining bees, the functions of workers, drones and queen in the hive, components of the hive, activities of beekeeping throughout the year, and more.

Leigh has been keeping hives since 1974 and is now up to 30-35. If you have been thinking about keeping bees and/or are interested in learning more about the lives of bees here is your opportunity to begin at the beginning with this free workshop!

Please phone the library at 924-7292 to pre-register – seating is limited.

Also, while your garden is in full bloom or production we encourage you to take a few pictures and submit them to dexterareatransition@gmail.com

During the winter we'll put all the pictures together for a tour of our summer/fall gardens! Time and location will be announced.

Please submit pictures as jpegs with proper reduction for email/storage, include your name and contact information, provide appropriate descriptions (or none) as you wish.

Need your support!

2011-08-06T16:50:00.000-07:00

We are working on a USDA Value Added Producer Grant that will help with working capitol to start up the store.
We "letters of support" from farmers, organizations, groups, businesses... PLEASE can you do one and ask others who believe our project is worthy of the grant.
Suggested verbiage to help you write the letter is below if you need it...

fill in where appropriate with your info or someone else s that will send the letter...
this is an example....
###########

Date

Dave Pearson
Town of Dexter
23 Main Street
Dexter, Me 04930

Dave,

Please accept this letter of support for the Town of Dexter's application for USDA Value Added Producer Grant for the Dexter Community Farm Project. As you know, I strongly support the application and the project as a whole. With such economic distress in Dexter, it is important to redevelop the local economy based on the community's strengths; this project does just that.

While the economic impact will be significant, there are other benefits that will result from its successful implementation of the project. Not only will the region consume more locally grown produce and goods, the food itself will be healthier.

Furthermore, the other programs and services offered through the project will go a long way to address other long term and important parts of the growing regional food economy in the greater Dexter area.

(( tweak the stuff above a little add some stuff here that is pertinent to your org and its mission)).

Sincerely,
your name
organization farm or affiliation

Local Beef Raffle and Chicken Coop Raffle winners

2011-07-27T05:24:00.000-07:00

The Dexter Community Farm Project is pleased to announce the winner of the 2 "fund raiser raffles" that took place Sunday. The Fund Raiser(s) were held to raise money for the Fossa General Store office space and other projects not covered by CDBG Grant money received.

Winners are:
Beef winners: Emily Kowal & Chris Gray
Chicken Coop winner: Sherri Langlais

Entertainment was by Wally Warren of Ripley

The Beef Raffle was (2) sides of locally grown, Certified Organic Grass Fed Beef donated by Sherburne Farms in Dexter and Chicken Coop Raffle was donated & built by Dan and Moira McGarry of Alder Brook Acres farm in Abbot.

Call Judy Wilbur Craig at 924.3067 for information for more information on the Dexter Community Farm Project, which is a project of the Dexter Regional Development Corporation and meets the 1st Tuesday of every month.

DDATT sponsoring monthly free movie

2011-07-27T05:22:00.000-07:00

Dexter Dover Area Towns in Transition (DDATT) is sponsoring another of its monthly free movies, this time on Friday August 5th at 7 PM at the Abbott Library in Dexter.
The film "Economics of Happiness" explores how the worldwide system of commerce and trade and consumerism has changed the relationship between humans and the rest of the planet over the past few centuries. The movie looks at logical consequences if we continue to use this current system (based on infinite growth for its health), and also provides ideas for how to change it in order to make it serve the purpose of human contentment rather than merely acquisition.

A moderated discussion will follow the screening, with local free refreshments. We'll try to end up by 9 PM.
Please come and join us and bring your ideas and comments Friday, August 5th.

DDATT is a group of local citizens concerned about our dependence on oil for almost everything we do, and planning together how to restructure our towns to use less of it. For more info call 277-4221, 924-3638 or
dexterareatransition@gmail.com

reschedule tonight's meeting & stuff

2011-07-05T08:02:00.000-07:00

Hi Farmers and friends,
After talking with Roger, we decided it would be best to reschedule tonight's meeting to next Tuesday at 7 pm. We hope you had a great holiday weekend and many are still on vacation or farming.

We are still waiting word on the CDBG Grant status and when we can send out the bid packages to the media.

We are also working on who, what, when we can tear up the 2nd floor and lay down a sub-floor. We need some good carpenters to tear up the current layers of floor. Any volunteers? Call me please!!!

I have been working with Bonnie at Harmony Decor of Corinna measuring and getting ideas for the flooring. She did all the work for free :) And also Electrician Steve Herring has offered to put in a few outlets and electric lines on the 1st and 2nd floor for free (we buy the supplies) before the project gets underway.
FYI: These people know they have to "bid" on the jobs if they want them.

Dave, Jason and I went up to the old school and found some office equipment for our office, a big table and chairs for the conference area upstairs and some shelving for downstairs. We can get this stuff because we are a non profit organization. If you can help move this to our building, we need some pickups and a trailer, call me... Dave & Roger have volunteered but need a few more helpers.

Fred Sherburne & Jim from Heart of Maine went a got an almost brand new (3) door Freezer and a (3) door Refrigerator a couple weeks ago that has been used by the Maranacook Buying Club. Also some coolers and sidewalk signs.

Tim Breen put screening around the front of the deck (donated by Fred) and then it was filled in with large rocks and then smaller rocks so that there is no drop off anymore. Looks great!

Darlene and I put planters on the deck a few weeks ago, (with sunflowers in them of course). They were donated by Snap of the Dragon Nursery in Corinna.

I talked with Dusty Dowse, the Bread King, and he has offered his knowledge on putting in a wood fired oven (potentially), as well as helping with some classes and acting as an advisor. Dusty is associated with the Kneading Conference & Bread Fair in Skowhegan and is a great resource. He has also invited me over to his house as he fires up his own oven and bakes bread, pizza, etc. Can't wait to learn.

I called the previous contractor on some of the issues with the outside of the building. Randy came up and a lot of those issues fixed, (door locking properly, trim work fixed, etc), but they are contacting the siding manufacturer about the siding issue. It may be just the nature of the beast.

RAFFLE TICKETS: how are people coming on selling Raffle Tickets? Any volunteers to sell at the store or in front of Buds? we need to sell a lot more to help us with our project!!!

I need help, so if anyone can help, please let me know. The Raffle is on July 24th with live entertainment.

That's it for now. I am sure I have forgotten a bunch of stuff, but hope that helps keep you up to date. LOTS of to and so little time :)

Have a great day and stay cool...
Judy

DATT upcoming events

2011-06-28T09:25:00.000-07:00

The Abbott Memorial Library and DDATT are co-sponsoring a workshop on “Weeds and Pests” Thursday, July 14 from 6-8:30pm at the Abbott Memorial Library meeting room, Dexter.

Jason Kafka of Checkerberry Farm in Parkman will have some samples of weeds (participants may bring theirs also!), pictures, and resources for identification purposes. He’ll cover pest “basics”, offer organic solutions, and suggest deterrents. The workshop is free, but limited seating requires pre-registration by contacting the Library 924-7292 or DDATT

dexterareatransition@gmail.com

Reminder – “Highbush Blueberry” workshop Thursday, June 30 6-8:30pm at the Abbott Memorial Library meeting room, Dexter. Please use the above contact information to register.

“Growing Connections – Planting Seeds for Healthy Eating”

2011-06-28T09:17:00.000-07:00

Piscataquis County - Now that summer is upon us, you may have noticed an increase in garden activity in your community. Thanks to a project “Growing Connections – Planting Seeds for Healthy Eating” sponsored through the Piscataquis Public Health Council (PPHC), you are seeing efforts of area schools, farmers and community groups.

Two area schools are working with PPHC under a SNAP-Ed Grant which funds programs that support nutrition education. Participating schools are the Morison Memorial School 4th grade in Corinth and the Milo Elementary 4th grade and SAD#41 in Milo. School projects are working on promoting more fresh fruits and vegetables, healthy eating behaviors and physical activity. Students have been involved in fun hands on learning activities using raised bed gardens during after school and summer programs. Teachers tell us the kids are having a lot of fun and hope to see the programs grow to reach more grade levels beyond the present 4th grades. Thank you, to the Milo and Corinth communities for their generous support in donations of garden materials.

SAD#41 sponsored a Nutrition & Activity Expo on June 4th which was open to the public. This was a fun morning of colorful interactive learning displays, taste testing, fruit/yogurt smoothies, walking, hoola hoop and wall climbing activities. It was full of fun things for students and parents alike. Another one is already being planned for March 2012.

This coming October, watch for FoodPlay nutrition theatre coming to a school in your community. Additional information will be available in the fall.

The PPHC SNAP-Ed Grant is funded by the USDA’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program – SNAP. The Supplemental Assistance Program (SNAP) provides nutrition assistance to people with low income. It can help you buy nutritious foods for a better diet. To find out more, contact your local town office or go online to www.fns.usda.gov/snap.

Interior of Fossa General Store expected to begin next month

2011-06-11T06:24:00.000-07:00

This story is in the Bangor Daily News and written by Diana Bowley, BDN Staff: DEXTER, Maine — Work will soon begin on the interior of the Fossa General Store in Dexter, where local produce will be showcased and sold.

The Dexter Regional Development Corp., which received a $140,000 Community Development Block Grant for the interior work, will act as its own general contractor and will

solicit bids for the materials, as well as the electrical and plumbing jobs, by July.

The store will sell farm produce and products produced in the Dexter region in an effort to promote local purchases and help local farmers. The store also will have a commercial kitchen. The latter will be funded through a $40,000 USDA grant.

The exterior work on the building and the installation of a deck has been completed and was funded through another CDBG grant.

The latest grant will cover only the first floor of the building, so corporation members are sponsoring a raffle of two sides of locally grown, certified organic grass-fed beef donated by Sherburne Farms in Dexter and a chicken coop donated and built by Dan and Moira McGarry of Abbot, to help fund the renovation to the second floor, which will serve as an office and conference room. The drawing will be held at 3 p.m. July 24 on the new deck.

For more information, call Judy Craig, coordinator of the Dexter Community Farm Project, at 924-3067.

Growing Local Food Workshop: Highbush Blueberries

2011-06-10T06:08:00.000-07:00

WHEN: June 30 Thursday 6-8:30pm
WHERE: Abbott Memorial Llibrary Meeting Room, Dexter
WHAT: Presenter: Ray M. from the A.E.M. Berry Farm and Garden Center in Palmyra
Ray has over 30 years of experience growing berries and will share his successes, disappointments, and of course the basics: location, transplanting, recommended varieties, etc. (Actually, he grows many other berries, some I've never heard of, but we're concentrating on blueberries this workshop.)

Sponsored by the Abbott Memorial Library and DDATT

The workshop is free, but pre-registration is required (do to limited seating). Contact the Library 924-7292 or DDATT dexterareatransition@gmail.com

Local Beef Raffle and Chicken Coop Raffle

2011-06-07T13:01:00.000-07:00

DEXTER – The Dexter Community Farm Project is pleased to announce 2 “fund raiser raffles” taking place now through July 24th. The Fund Raiser(s) are raising money for the Fossa General Store office space and other projects not covered by CDBG Grant money received.

The Beef Raffle is (2) sides of locally grown, Certified Organic Grass Fed Beef donated by Sherburne Farms in Dexter. Tickets are $3 each or 2 for $5, so if you don’t win with your 1st ticket, you could win with your 2nd ticket. OR you might win both sides!

The beef will be all packaged and ready for local pickup after the drawing on the 24th.

The second raffle, to be drawn off on the same day is a Chicken Coop Raffle donated & built by Dan Dan and Moira McGarry of Alder Brook Acres farm in Abbot. It comes complete with and 2 bags of shavings from Bob’s Hardware in Dover-Foxcroft, a feeder & waterer from Paris Farm in Newport and a bag of chicken mash from Dover Agway. Tickets are $3 each or 2 for $5 for this complete package with local pickup and possible delivery.

On Sunday, July 24th at 3 PM we will be holding the raffles on the new native white cedar deck and be conducting tours of the future Fossa General Store and possible entertainment.

To purchase tickets, stop by Abbott Memorial Library where Liz has tickets available during Library hours, Dave at the Town Office, Farm Project members, or call Judy Wilbur Craig at 924.3067 for more information.

The Dexter Community Farm Project is a project of the Dexter Regional Development Corporation and meets the 1st Tuesday of every month. Visit www.DexterFarmProject.com for more information.

Fossa General Store enters new phase

2011-05-19T09:23:00.000-07:00

Written by Grace Lommel : DEXTER - The exterior work on the Fossa General Store on Main Street is complete now that the deck is done. That was Phase I. Now the inside work (Building Phase II) begins in earnest, thanks to a recently awarded $140,000 grant from the State's Community Development Block Grant (CDBG).

The interior work needed on the store includes electrical, plumbing, heating, insulation, flooring and sheet rock. Dexter Community Farm Project members are hopeful for a fall opening.

“This new interior grant enables us to be our own general contractor, unlike the $230,000 exterior grant from CDBG which precluded work from local contractors because of high insurance and bonding requirements,” said Judy Wilbur Craig, a volunteer coordinator of the Project. “It's more in line with our goal of fostering the local economy.” The bidding process is expected to begin mid-June.

Dexter Regional Develpment Corportation (DRDC) also received a $40,000 USDA grant for kitchen appliances such as commercial refrigerators, stoves and sinks. A goal of DRDC is to have a licensed commercial kitchen available to be rented out for value-added (processed) products like jams and pickles.

When the interior work is completed and the store opens this fall, another phase of Farm Project's mission to support a new local agricultural economy begins. The Fossa General Store is envisioned as a hub for the sale of products produced within a 35-mile radius of Dexter. These products are as diverse as meat, dairy, vegetables, hay and wood.

“The Fossa General Store is not replacing farmers markets or grocery stores,” Craig said. “We hope to just make it easier for smaller, more diverse farmers who don't have the labor resources to stand at farmers' markets or have the volume required by grocery stores.” The store intends on buying the products and then selling them locally which will eliminate the middle person.

The final phase for the Fossa General Store will be to consolidate the produce of many small farmers for bigger sales to grocery stores, schools and organizations.

But until then, the focus is on Sunday, June 5 when the Fossa General Store will raffle off a chicken coop and two sides of beef, offer tours of the unfinished interior and host its first Sunday afternoon farmers market. Farmers must have liability insurance which Craig says is a usual requirement at farmers’ markets.

For more information, contact Craig at 924-3067 or visit dexterfarmproject.blogspot.com."This content originally appeared as a copyrighted article in the SVWeekly.com and is used here with permission."

Public Hearing Notice

2011-05-19T09:21:00.000-07:00

The Town of Dexter will hold a Public Hearing on June 9th, at, 7pm at the Town Council Chambers to discuss acceptance of a Non-Profit Development CDBG Grant. The purpose of the grant is to fund the interior renovations of the Fossa Building.
Public comments will be solicited at this Hearing and will be submitted as part of the Project Development Phase. All persons wishing to make comments or ask questions about the acceptance of these funds are invited to attend this Public Hearing.
Comments may be submitted in writing to: Dave Pearson 23 Main Street Dexter, Me 04930 at any time prior to the Public Hearing. TDD/TTY users may call 711.
If you are physically unable to access any of the Town’s programs or services, please call 924-7351, so that accommodations can be made.

Growing local food workshop!

2011-05-11T19:23:00.000-07:00

DDATT and the Abbott Memorial Library will continue their Growing Local Food garden workshop series with "Soils/Composting/Fertilizers" on Thursday, May 19, 6-8pm at the Abbott Memorial Library meeting room, Dexter.

Kate Garland, Horticulturist with the Penobscot County Cooperative Extension will discuss soil testing, composting, and organic soil amendments. She says "please bring your questions"!

The workshop is free. Pre-registration is required due to limited seating. Contact the Library at 924-7292 or DDATT at dexterareatransition@gmail.com for more information or to register.

City Critic: School Lunches - Video Library - The New York Times

2011-03-06T19:32:00.000-08:00

This is a great story that my daughter who lives in New York sent me. She has been involved with Slow Food and other local food initiatives over the past 10 years or more and shares great links with me. This one talks about local food in the NY school system lunches.

Click for story...
It can be done!!! The price is going to surprise some of you.

Judy

2 side(s) of Dexter Beef Raffle

2011-02-28T18:19:00.000-08:00

DRDC is sponsoring a Certified Organic Grass Feed Beef Raffle to benefit the Dexter Community Farm Project & Fossa General store.
The locally grown beef tickets are $3 each or 2 for $5 (both tickets eligible to win)

The beef is being raised specifically for Fossa General Store fundraising and the drawing will be on Saturday, June 4th on the Fossa General Store deck (if finished by that date).

Local pick-up – need not be present to win

All proceeds go the Dexter Community Farm Project & processing fee

Call 207.924.3067 or email judy@DexterFarmProject.com for info

MORE INFO COMING SOON..........

Dexter Sunrise Kiwanis

2011-02-24T16:58:00.000-08:00

It's the eve of a speaking engagment at the Dexter Sunrise Kiwanis. Farmer Fred Sherburne is joing me in explaining what the Fossa General Store is going to be, where we stand on the building and construction and what it means to the Town of Dexter.
I have put together a movie of construction pictures from when we started demolition to now. I wish we had a projector so that I could do it on a screen rather than just a computer screen, but it is the best I can do for now.
Anyone have a projector?
I am going to invite anyone after to come to the store for a tour if anyone wants to.
Well, almost time for bed, have to be up at 5 am and 6 am at the meeting...
Happy snow day tomorrow afternoon & evening...
judy

MPBN show

2011-02-18T08:08:00.001-08:00

I watched a great show on MPBN last night and wanted to share with you.
On Maine Watch with Jennifer Rooks it was about winter farming. The show will air again Friday at 8:30 pm and again on Sunday at 5 pm.

Here is a link: http://www.mpbn.net/ProgramsSchedules/LocalPrograms/Television/MaineWatch/tabid/477/Default.aspx

it will be available soon online as well.

DDATT movie nights

2011-02-02T15:18:00.000-08:00

Dexter Dover Area Towns in Transition is showing the following Free movies, which are mostly about food and water, at the Abbott Library basement at 7 PM.

Put them on your calendar! Come see interesting stuff! Eat locally made refreshments! Join in conversations with your neighbors about the film afterward! Bring your family and friends.

    * Friday Feb 4th: The Future of Food
    * Friday Mar 4th: The True Dirt On Farmer John
    * Friday April 1st: Blue Gold
    * Friday May 6: Meet Your Farmer The Future of Food The Future of Food documents what is currently going on with the food supply in the US. Monsanto, a multinational corporation who was formerly in the pesticide business (agent orange, ddt) is now one of the biggest seed suppliers in the world. And not just any seed, it's genetically engineered for a number of purposes.

The True Dirt on Farmer John The award-winning true story of third-generation American farmer John Peterson's hero's journey of success, tribulation, failure and rebirth. Peterson is a true American original. His story parallels that of the family farm in 20th Century America. What makes The Real Dirt on Farmer John so special is the fact that John Peterson is not only a farmer....he's an artist, too.

Blue Gold: world water wars. This award winning documentary directed by Sam Bozzo is based on the book BLUE GOLD: THE FIGHT TO STOP THE CORPORATE THEFT OF THE WORLD'S WATER by Maude Barlow and Tony Clark. The film examines the problems created by the privatization and commoditization of water

Meet Your Farmer Meet Your Farmer is a series of short films about farms in Maine. Produced for Maine Farmland Trust, an organization that works to preserve farm land in Maine for farming use, the films offer a glimpse at the many different types of farms in the state. From the potato harvest in Aroostook County, to the innovations of a seventh-generation farmer Downeast, to the struggles of a dairy farmer in Western Maine, the short films remind viewers that farming is more than just a historical feature of Maine; farming in Maine is alive and well.

DDATT is a group of local citizens concerned about how to reduce our dependence on oil for almost every aspect of our lives. 277-4221 or 924-3836 for more info. dexterareatransition@gmail.com

snow cancellation

2011-02-01T13:17:00.001-08:00

Sorry, but to keep everyone safe, we are moving tonight Dexter Community Farm Project meeting to next Tuesday.
Stay warm, safe and happy over the next few snowy days!
Happy Farming..........

February 1st Monthly Meeting Agenda

2011-01-29T14:25:00.000-08:00

Tuesday, February 01, 2011 – 7 pm

OLD BUSINESS:

1) Building / Construction update (Roger)

2) Beef Raffle Fund Raiser: Discuss the price of tickets, where, where and all that stuff.
Pam from Dexter Printing has generously offered to print our Raffle Tickets and of course BIG thanks to Fred Sherburne for the whole beef to raffle. We will be raffling (2) sides!

3) Chicken Coop Raffle donated by Daniel & Moria McGarry

4) Are we going to do the dinner? Do we have enough volunteers? Other fund raisers???

5) Creating a buying club or something similar (Judy)

NEW BUSINESS:

Grant from Commissioner Seth Bradstreet of the Dept of Ag (Judy)
Phase 1 of our building is done. (There are a few things to finish by the builders, but waiting on supplies to come in) We have the keys and the big work can begin on the inside when more money and donations are available. Any carpenters ready to volunteer? We will have an update at the meeting. I am trying to make sure there is power so we can go thru the store before our meeting that night at 6:30 PM (I will let you know). Roger is checking on the power situation. The contractors had power on a special meter and that was changed this week. He is checking on how to get it back on.
Dave, Roger and I will be meeting with CDBG rep. Terry Ann Stevens on Wednesday to finalize the paperwork on that Grant.
Fred has been researching labeling, packaging and more from Herring Brothers which he will share at the meeting.
Signage & Graphics: We need to start working on graphics, logos, etc.
Dave is working on the big sign outside which he will report on.
Fred suggested we start using our windows in the store to promote.... promote... promote...
We need to heat in store very soon to help keep the foundation from damage. Discussion
7:30 PM -- SPECIAL GUEST SPEAKER: Cheryl Hajek of CBC Bookkeeping
How do you know if you are making a profit?
Cheryl will be giving an overview of book keeping for the farmer (or business) and how QuickBooks can help you with knowing IF you are making a profit, where your expenses and income come from and more. Cheryl is a Certified QuickBooks Instructor as well as a farmer. If there is enough interest, we will discuss holding classes for those of you who want to learn how to use QuickBooks efficiently. She will also talk about what Software version is best for you and costs. (cheryl@cbcbookkeeping.com)

--- General Discussion AND Q & A

Vision Statement: Building our local economy and community with local people, farms and markets.
Mission Statement: Locally Grown, Locally Processed, Locally Marketed.

Public Hearing Notice

2011-01-17T17:03:00.000-08:00

The Town of Dexter will hold a Public Hearing on February 1st, at 7PM at the Town Council Chambers to discuss an application being submitted to the State of Maine CDBG program for a Non-Profit Development Grant application.

The purpose of the grant application is to fund Phase II of the Fossa General Store renovations. Public comments will be solicited at this Hearing and will be submitted as part of the application. All persons wishing to make comments or ask questions about the grant application are invited to attend this Public Hearing.

Comments may be submitted in writing to: Dave Pearson Town of Dexter 23 Main Street Dexter, Maine 04930 at any time prior to the Public Hearing. TDD/TTY users may call 711. If you are physically unable to access any of the Town’s programs or services, please call Dave Pearson 924-7351 so that accommodations can be made.

Special meeting and updates

2011-01-17T14:54:00.000-08:00

Hi Farmers and friends,

At our regular January 3rd meeting we had a great energetic meeting with many new people as well as regulars.
Those who were in attendance: Brent Mullis, Billi Barker, Daniel & Moira McGarry, Judith Stephens, Fred Sherburne, Jason Abbott-Dallamora, Mia Abbott, Jesse Abbott-Dallamora, Roger Brown, Dave Pearson, Grace Lommel, Judy Wilbur Craig, Sue Watson

In old business Roger caught us up on the Construction of the Fossa Store. The outside is looking fabulous!!!!

The contractors will be done within a few weeks and then OUR WORK can begin on the inside, but we need $$$. We talked a lot about fund raising, writing more grants and how we can raise money for the inside. We will be able to volunteer and hire our own people once the contractors are done and the CDBG grant phase is over.

Fundraiser Ideas tossed around were:
-- a dinner/dance at the new school; maybe in March. Billi Barker had LOTS of ideas on how to do that and Fred is checking with the new school to make sure we could hold it there.
-- Fred Sherburne is donating a whole beef to conduct a Beef Raffle ... Thanks Fred! I contacted another organization that holds these type of raffles and they have made a few thousand dollars. So we will be raffle (2) sides of (1) beef.
-- Daniel McGarry of Abbot offered to build and donate a Chicken Coop to raffle .... holy chickens, that is nice of him and his wife Moira!

We also talked about starting a buying club (of some sort) and why not start it sooner than later. We don't really need to be open in the to start selling your products. I have talked with Marada Cook and hope to have someone from Crown of Maine come and talk to us about what we need to do to make that happen.

Financial: Dave explained where we stand with the CDBG Grant financially, because we coming to a close of that grant.

New Business:
Sue Watson from Heart of Maine (HOM) talked about grants, applications & about pertinent upcoming farm workshops and also Heart of Maine’s plan to help the Dexter Farm Project.
She talked about HOM's 2011 Summary of Goals, Objectives & Project Strategies and how that includes Dexter Community Farm Project.

Some of the things discussed where the need for workshops such as business planning, insurances. We talked about the need of a workshop such as NexLevel to help build business plans for individual farms but also for how it will help with their relationship with the Fossa marketplace. One of the barriers for many of the start up farmers is the cost of the course. We are working on finding funding and scholarships for those who may need them to attend this type of workshop.

I will keep you updated, BUT what type of workshops would you benefit from? I hope to put together an Insurance workshop soon for what kind of liability insurance you need to sell to the store and other places.
We scheduled a special meeting for Tuesday, January 18th at 7 PM at the Council Chambers. BUT, we are supposed to get bad weather tomorrow night. IF we do, we will have the meeting at our regular meeting on February 1st, same time, same place....
We were holding it to come up with new ideas on fund raising and continue on the dinner and the Raffles.

Recently we have had 2 news stories written about us. One from Grace Lommel of SVWeekly and the other from Diana Bowley of Bangor Daily News. Both are posted here on our blog below. I have also taken pictures of the building as recent as Friday. You can find see those on the blog as well.

I know I have forgotten other stuff talked about but.......

As always, call me if you have any questions, ideas and thoughts.
Judy

Growing Local Food Workshops

2011-01-17T08:57:00.000-08:00

DDATT has announced that their February Growing Local Food workshops will be scheduled for Saturday, February 5 and Saturday, February 19, 9:30 until noon at the Abbott Memorial Library in Dexter.

The first workshop, February 5 (snow date February 12) is "Back to Basics" Topics to be covered : location, planning(how big, how much food, how much time), tilling & fertilizing, fencing, choosing varieties, ordering seeds, etc.

The second workshop on February 19 (snow date February 26) "Seeds" covers: starting seeds(planting depth, seed size, containers, potting soil), double transplanting, cold frames, hoophouses, greenhouses, etc.

Both workshops are free and will be presented by local organic market gardeners Lois Labbe and Tom Roberts of Snakeroot Farm.

Snakeroot Organic Farm started in 1995 when Tom and Lois moved onto a run out hayfield in an opening in the woods on the Snakeroot Road in Pittsfield, and immediately began to improve the soil with cover crops and compost.

Today they grow a wide variety of mixed vegetables, fruit and culinary herbs on 5 acres of gardens. Over 30 greenhouse and field crops are sold at local farmers' markets.

Pre-registration is suggested by contacting dexterareatransition@gmail.com, 924-3836 (eves) or 924-7292 (days).

Bangor Daily News Story

2011-01-15T16:22:00.000-08:00

Grants eyed for Dexter renovations Saturday, January 15, 2011
By Diana Bowley of the BDN Staff: DEXTER, Maine — The exterior renovation of the Fossa General Store and Dexter Community Farm Project is nearly complete and local officials are working to secure grants for the interior work, according to Dexter Town Manager Dave Pearson.

Photo taken Friday, January 14, 2011

“I think it looks pretty good. It looked ugly as sin for a couple of years, so I think maybe it was worth the wait,” Pearson told the Town Council on Thursday.

The work is funded by one of several grants the town has received to spruce up the community. The town also has a Main Street grant to help businesses and a grant to improve housing.

Funds from the Main Street grant, which has income guidelines and requires a match, has been used by the Brewster Inn.

The Country Charm also was awarded a grant to help track its inventory. A third business was awarded a grant but the owner disqualified himself, according to Pearson. About $18,000 to $20,000 remains in the account and those funds will be redirected to another business owner, he said. Any local business wanting more information should contact the town office.

More than seven projects are under way using funds from a $500,000 housing grant, Pearson said. The money is being used to improve the homes of qualified owners and some funds will be used to replace housing.

Pearson, Judy Wilbur Craig, director of the Fossa building project and the farm project, along with Jason Bird, the town’s grant writer, are now searching for additional grants to finish the Fossa building. About $300,000 has been invested in the restoration of the building to date, according to Bird.

Bird said the project received a $40,000 grant from USDA Rural Development to construct a kitchen in the building. The first floor will be retail space and the upstairs will be office space. The emphasis now is to get the renovation work completed and the downstairs finished so the store can be opened, he said.

The general store will be a year-round farm store and will have a demonstration kitchen. Also planned as part of the farm project is the construction or renovation of a building for a creamery to process milk, yogurt and ice cream, and for use as a warehouse.

"This content originally appeared as a copyrighted article in the Saturday, January 15, 2011 edition of the Bangor Daily NEWS and is used here with permission."

Recent Newstory in SvWeekly

2011-01-06T08:02:00.000-08:00

Dexter Fossa Store exterior almost complete; interior work to begin

Photo taken January 30th, 2010

Wednesday, January 05, 2011

Written by Grace Lommel: DEXTER – At the monthly meeting of the Fossa General Store and Dexter Community Farm Project on Jan. 4 at the Dexter Town Council Chamber, farmers, grant writers and community organizers discussed building and construction updates, potential grant opportunities and ideas for fundraising for interior work.

“The exterior trim is 60 percent complete, the deck (77 feet long, 12 foot wide) footings are in and the siding has begun,” reported Dexter Regional Development Corporation (DRDC) President Roger Brawn.

DRDC is the sponsor of the Dexter Community Farm Project whose goal is to create a year round market in the rebuilt Fossa General Store. Both the Project and Fossa General Store were created by DRDC to work with local community farmers within roughly a 25- mile radius of Dexter.

The exterior work is expected to be done by the end of January. “Once the siding is complete, then we can roll up our sleeves and get moving on the inside work,” said Dave Pearson, DRDC VP and Dexter Town Manager. “We haven't had access to interior,” explained Brawn, citing restrictions of engineers, the federal grant and state contractors. Necessary interior work includes insulation, electrical and plumbing work.

“The building is not the only thing,” Pearson reminded the group. “The real project is to reinvigorate Central Maine's agricultural resources.”

Some of the resources available are grants and Sue Watson of the USDA and coordinator of the Heart of Maine Resource Conservation and Development spoke about these possibilities. Watson presented grant ideas for completing the interior of the Fossa Store as well as business plans and training opportunities for small scale farmers.

The Tilling the Soil 13-week business planning seminar introduced by Watson garnered the most interest for the farmers present. “It gets you to set down and think through the opportunities for growing and marketing your products,” Watson explained. Included in the grant are scholarships to offset the course and instructor fees.

Judy Craig, Director of the Fossa building and Dexter’s Community Farm Project, offered the possibility of a buying club which would enable collective selling to schools, prisons and supermarkets. Dairy farmer Fred Sherburne of Dexter was very interested in the buying club. “It's essential to get in this [buying club] business this summer,” urged Sherburne. Watson agreed, saying “I think it's worth going for.”

Plans were made to meet on Jan. 18 at 7 p.m. to identify the most applicable and available grants and to also gauge local interest.

When meat and vegetable farmer Dan McGarry of Abbott asked “What can we do now?” several fundraising ideas were discussed. Billi Barker of St. Albans suggested a dinner party on March 5 to celebrate Carnival, the last day of Mardi Gras. Farmer and fiber artist Mia Abbott of Blanchard offered adding value to the meal with a raffle or auction of local agricultural products as a preview of what the area has to offer. Barker agreed, declaring that "people want to know what's going on" with the building and the farm project.

This area is wide open with opportunities,” said Watson “We're creating a new old economy,” predicted Craig.

"This content originally appeared as a copyrighted article in the SVWeekly.com and is used here with permission."

1st meeting of 2011

2011-01-02T16:16:00.000-08:00

Hi Farmers, friends and DRDC members,

Happy New Year!!!

2011 is going to be a great year for Dexter's Community Farm Project. We are starting off with a nice looking (so far) building on Main Street. The foundation is done, they put in the windows, the outside trim is going up and next is the siding. That is supposed to be done by the end of the month!!! Then the building is ours to get going on the inside. We have to come up with some fund-raising ideas, grants, volunteering, etc. Bring your ideas to the table on Tuesday.

I took some pictures last week and you can see them at http://picasaweb.google.com/fossageneralstore/123010

It is starting to look like a General Store with the windows and notice how they match the rest of Main Street Buildings.

We need YOUR input and ideas to get the excitement going again with our project. The next meeting is this Tuesday, January 4^th at 7 pm at the Dexter Town Council Chambers on Main Street.

Mark your calendars, the Farm Project meetings are always the 1^st Tuesday of the month (unless weather is bad). We need to start meeting regularly now that the holidays are over and the building is progressing.

I will have some snacks and drinks available (will that entice you to come?)

Also let us know how your growing season went in 2010, what new things you are doing and what are your plans for 2011?

On another note, but pertinent, I am now working at Heart of Maine RC&D (HOM) in Bangor 3 or 4 days a week. If you don’t know, HOM works with farmers and rural programs in the Penobscot, Piscataquis & Somerset Counties. ( www.HeartofMaine.org) Sue Watson who attends our meetings, works for USDA and is the Coordinator overseeing Heart of Maine, which is a 503C nonprofit. It will be a great partnership for our group and HOM.

I hope to see you on Tuesday and if anyone would like to bring some of your own snacks, feel free!!!

It is going to be a great year for the Fossa General Store and the Community Farm Project.

judy

Agenda for January 4th:

OLD BUSINESS:

1) Building / Construction update (Roger)

2) Financial status

NEW BUSINESS:

1) Farmers updates on the 2010 season & what’s coming up

2) Sue Watson from Heart of Maine will talk about grants, applications & about pertinent upcoming farm workshops – Heart of Maine’s plan to help the Dexter Farm Project in the.

3) Volunteers need to help find $$ (Tim)

4) What’s next? Idea and suggestions!

7) General Discussion AND Q & A

Next meeting: Tuesday, February 08th at 7 PM

Vision Statement: Building our local economy and community with local people, farms and markets.
Mission Statement: Locally Grown, Locally Processed, Locally Marketed.

No December meeting

2010-12-05T10:02:00.000-08:00

We will NOT be having a Farm meeting in December with so much going on for the holidays. We will resume in January on the 4th.

The store is coming along and we can see progress now. They put the new roof on this past week and are putting in the new windows.

The roof is the rubber membrane 'stuff'. I will try and get pictures soon to show the progress.

The General Contractors will be done at the end of December (I think) and then we need to find money, supplies and such to work on the building.

Money just doesn't go very far these days, and as many of you are aware, the $280K only got us a foundation and the shell of the building. New windows, siding, roof.

We still need to do electric, heat, plumbing, insulation, etc. WE CAN DO IT!

Busy week

2010-10-18T14:40:00.000-07:00

It is a busy week for speaking engagements for me this week.

On Tuesday, I am the guest speaker at the American Legions dinner saluting the Boys State & Girls State participants being held at the Tri County Vocational Center. I have asked Fred Sherburne to come along and help explain our project.

On Wednesday night I am traveling over to Hartland for a potluck dinner for a the Hartland Couples Club members. Brenda Seekins from the Sebasticook Valley Chamber of Commerce contacted me and thought that the members would be interested in our project. She mention that most of the members are of senior citizen age, and they will remember doing business at the Fossa Store in the early days. I am hoping Dave Pearson is going to accompany me to that shindig. He may have another commitment, so if any other Farm member would like to come, let me know... POT LUCK dinnner.... yummmm

I went down and took some pictures at the store Saturday (between showers) and here is the link...
Construction link

I have also gotten a few other invitations to speak at groups... I wish we had more visual aids to show & tell, but have been told by the architects that it will cost more $$$ to have a composite picture. Oh well...

as always, call if you have any questions, concerns and best of all IDEAS and or want to join our group.
Judy

Monthly Meeting tonight: Agenda

2010-10-05T15:00:00.000-07:00

NEW BUSINESS:

1) Jason Bird: needs your help to work on USDA Grant

2) Sue Watson: grants and applications & about pertinent upcoming farm workshops

OLD BUSINESS:

1) Building / Construction update

2) Interview with Channel 2 last week

2) Volunteers… need DRDC members & Farm input (invite friends, family & neighbors)

3) whats next? Idea and suggestions!

7) General Discussion AND Q & A

Next meeting: November 2^nd at 7 PM (???) election night

news on one of our farm family's

2010-09-29T07:44:00.000-07:00

Piscataquis County Soil and Water Conservation District Honors the 2010 Agriculture Cooperator of the Year

Felix Blinn, Acting Chairperson, and Shelia Richard, Executive Director of PCSWCD, present Chris and Wendy Russell with a new farm sign and their achievement award.

On August 5, 2010 Chris and Wendy Russell, owners of Widdershins, were honored by PCSWCD for the low impact practices they use on their farm.

Rotational grazing, use of animal trails to reduce runoff, nutrient management, and manure storage facilities are just some of the practices they successfully manage. Many family members, friends, and interested public came to the event.

Felix Blinn, Acting Chairperson of PCSWCD, talked about the PCSWCD and its role in conservation and then introduced the Russell's. Wendy and Chris talked about the history of the farm and their vision for it.

Alice Begin, Resource Conservationist for Natural Resources Conservation Service, talked about grasses and the importance of rotational grazing to prevent overuse of the pastures. During a walk around the Russell’s pastures Alice showed how to use a pasture stick to calculate the amount of useable grasses in a field in order to rotate your animals before overuse occurs.

After the walking tour the participants were treated to a barbecue lunch of hamburgers that were made from Widdershins grass-fed beef, potato salad, pasta salad, and dinner rolls followed by a blueberry cream pie.

Following lunch Cathy Elliott, University of Maine Cooperative Extension, discussed sustainable living using a thought provoking handout to initiate questions. Wendy treated the group to her homemade goat’s milk gelato, which is frozen custard. The presentation of a new farm sign and an achievement award was then carried out.

TV interview today

2010-09-28T12:46:00.001-07:00

HI Farmers and Friends,
I just wanted to let you know Fred Sherburne and I were interviewed by NBC's WLBZ Channel 2 news today about Dexter's Community Farm Project. It is going to be aired tonight at 5 PM and 6 PM John the camera guy told me.
I hope I did okay for ya...
On another note, remember we have a meeting next Tuesday, October 5th at 7 pm in the Town Council Chambers. We need YOUR input for a grant Jason is writing. Sue has also found a bunch of grants that we are looking into such as EBT & others.
We have a lot to talk about, a lot to pick your brains about, so please try to attend next week.
Feel free to call me anytime with questions and concerns.
Judy

Construction continues at a good pace

2010-09-20T20:21:00.000-07:00

The construction of the Fossa General Store is moving right along.
The drain pipe that was discovered under the building when digging out for the foundation was replaced by the town and the footings were put in.
Today the forms were being put up by Edgar Construction of Blanchard and it looked like they were digging by hand in the cellar under the front of the store.
I didn't want to bother the workers asking too many questions, but I did take pictures.
pictures for today!

Bangor Daily News Story

2010-09-15T10:03:00.001-07:00

Building project begins in Dexter

Wednesday, September 15, 2010
By Diana Bowley of the BDN Staff: DEXTER, Maine — The first phase of a renovation project to convert the former Fossa General Store into a farmers market and general store officially has begun in downtown Dexter.

S.J. Wood Construction Co. of Winthrop, which bid $244,979 for the project, was awarded a contract this month to renovate the building.

Dexter Regional Development Corp., through the town of Dexter, received a nonprofit Community Development Block Grant of $230,000 for the work.

All of the bids submitted were higher than anticipated, so the work plan had to be scaled back to fit the lowest of the bids, according to Judy Craig, a member of the corporation and executive director of the farm project, both of which are unpaid positions.

Despite that setback, Craig said this week, “We’re very excited about the work starting.”

The corporation also is pleased that the general contractor plans to hire local subcontractors to complete the project, she added.

That project will cover primarily the foundation costs, the renovation of the addition in the back of the building and the exterior walls, and installation of new windows.

Craig said the corporation and town officials are working to secure additional grants to complete the project.

Backers of the project, which include many regional farmers, are working not only for a farm store, but also a demonstration kitchen, a warehouse to store the farm produce and a creamery where milk and milk products can be processed in public view.

The latter would provide residents in the region with fresher milk since some milk is trucked to Vermont where it is bottled and then returned to Maine for sale.

Farmers say the project would help maintain the open space and farmland now being used, and quite possibly open up more land for farming while keeping dollars local.

“We should be more sustainable in our own area,” farmer Fred Sherburne said.

The store would sell products made at the creamery, as well as products grown or raised within a 50-mile radius.
"This content originally appeared as a copyrighted article in the Wednesday, September 15, 2010 edition of the Bangor Daily NEWS and is used here with permission."

Email and blog post

2010-09-15T10:02:00.000-07:00

Hi all:
I am sending this along for Jason who will be talking to you at the next meeting for this big grant.
The next meeting is October 5th at 7 PM at the Town Council Chambers and we REALLY need you to come and give your input to Jason.

Construction began last week on the Fossa Store and as of yesterday, the footings were put in on the back part of the building. Please check the blog for more details and picture link. I am trying to get pictures and updates regularly now that the project has begun, so bookmark the blog and check in frequently.

Call me anytime for more information. FYI: I will be gone next week from Tuesday thru Sunday for my daughter's wedding on Peakes Island in Portland.

Below is the info from Jason on the Community Food Projects Competitive Grants Program....

========
Judy,

As we discussed, there is a great funding opportunity that has come up that would provide support for the store to get up and running. However, I will need some help in pulling together all of the information and building community support. So, I need to pull in the troops so that we don't miss out on this opportunity.

If you could, please pass this on to the group. I Also, need to ask to monopolize the agenda for the next meeting on the 5th (I believe) in order to brainstorm our proposal with the group, and to get some help pulling everything together.

Here is some information about the grant:

Up to $125,000 a year for a $300,000 total award

A 1 to 1 match is required (cash or in-kind)

Eligible expenses can be operating costs such as labor, utilities, and maybe working capital

Here is the link to the full program description.
http://www.nifa.usda.gov/funding/rfas/pdfs/11_community_foods.pdf

Footing done today

2010-09-14T17:30:00.000-07:00

Went down to work site and took pictures of the footings put in today around the broken drain pipe.

They said they can still fix the pipe and keep the project moving forward.

Construction has begun!

2010-09-14T10:30:00.000-07:00

Roger Brawn, DRDC President, Dave Pearson, DRDC VP and I went to DECD in Augusta on September 3rd to sign all the paperwork with S. J. Wood Construction Co., Inc. of Winthrop.
We were surprised, but happy to see them at work the following week and demo'ing!
We have been told that S. J. Wood plans on using many "local" contractors for sub work, which is great for our local economy. Matt McKusick Construction is digging currently on site.
I was on the job site yesterday and found the guys all looking down into the hole (which is going to be our foundation).
There is a huge pipe that is an old drainage pipe from back in the 1800's because it was put in before the building was built. It runs in from Grove Street, straight thru our building and down thru the municipal parking lot. (who knew?)
They called in Mike Delaware from Highway Dept. and because it is a town pipe, they ordered one from out of state and it should be here later this week.
Check out the pictures to see what is happening.
Jason and I are working on Grants tomorrow to try and find more money for the 'inside' construction.
Unfortunately our 1st CDBG Grant of $230K plus our $50K match is only going to do the foundation, windows and outside of structure (including the siding).
Discouraging I know, but WE CAN DO IT folks!

Monthly Meeting tonight: Agenda

2010-09-07T13:18:00.001-07:00

Monthly Meeting tonight, Tuesday Sept 7th at 7 pm, town council chambers....
Many things to talk about tonight.

OLD BUSINESS:
1) Volunteers? Need help to get “tin panels” to Mike Wallace at Dexter Sandblasting who is restoring them

NEW BUSINESS:
1) Opening of Contractor bids: August 17th

2) Contractor winner wasn’t official under Roger Brawn, Dave Pearson and I went to DECD office in Augusta on Sept 2nd to sign the appropriate paper work with Terry Ann Stevens.

3) Roger is going to speak about the bid procedure and how it works with DECD and our roles. (chain of command)

4) The contractor chosen is S. J. Wood Construction Co. of Winthrop. They are going to start as soon as the end of this week or beginning of next week. We will talk about the scope of work tonight.

5) Great article in the July Up North Magazine written by Fran Emmons about 3 or our farmers and the Farm Project. I will have some copies for you to browse through. It featured Sherburne Farm, Leaves & Blooms & Midsummer Night’s Meadow Farm and a little about our project

6) Sheila Grant wrote another article in the SV Weekly... link http://www.downtowndexter.com/news/070810.html

7) Sue Watson talking about pertinent upcoming farm workshops

8) whats next? Idea and suggestions!

7) General Discussion AND Q & A

Next meeting: October 5th at 7 PM

August meeting agenda

2010-08-03T19:19:00.000-07:00

1) General Contractor Update

2) Grant(s) update

3) Volunteers? Need help to get “tin panels” to Mike Wallace at Dexter Sandblasting who is restoring them

4) Farm Adventures & meetings
• July 2nd field trip
o Fred Sherburne
o New renovated Grange Hall in Starks
With the help of USDA Rural $199K grant, Alternative Agriculture Association (MA3) turned the 130 year-old former Starks Grange Hall into a beautiful new space for collecting and processing local farm products. “the Beast” is a wood-fired brick oven! Paula Day & her husband Ed Ross received a USDA Grant and has worked on it for the past 2 years. They are continuing the local food movement and creating the Blue Heron Bakery, Catering & Local Foods Connection. They also have Trial Test (2 acre) Wheat Field at their farm, which is only a 1/2 mile or so from the Grange Hall. Crop & Soil Consultant Mark Fulford was on hand to talk about the test field, soil conditions, and LOTS more.

o Riverside Farm Market and Cafe in Oakland (riversidefarmmarket.com)
o Barrel’s Market in Waterville (barrelsmarket.com)
o Fossa General Store

• July 27th equipment hunting at Bubba’s in Newport

• July 28th Open House in Starks
o Made lots of great connections with USDA officials, Mike Michaud’s office and farmers, etc
o Want (need) a wood fired oven (how and if it can be accomplished)

• July 31st Bread Fair at the 2nd Annual Kneading Conference

5) Ideas we got from places visited: need to sell Maine wines & beer, fresh meat from Herring Bros., inexpensive lighting, diversity, wood oven, the need to be a full going kitchen when opening, maybe a restaurant license vs. certified commercial kitchen license

6) Still receiving phone calls from new farmers regularly & leads for futures commercial seeing of our products. i.e.: restaurants, etc.

7) UpNorth Magazine article on stands now featuring our farmers, Sherburne Farm, Leaves & Blooms & Midsummer Night’s Meadow Farm

7) General Discussion

Next meeting: September 6th at 7 PM

Vision Statement: Building our local economy and community with local people, farms and markets.
Mission Statement: Locally Grown, Locally Processed, Locally Marketed.

Contractors: INVITATION TO BIDDERS

2010-05-20T04:03:00.000-07:00

INVITATION TO BIDDERS for the FOSSA BUILDING RENOVATION – PHASE I in DEXTER, MAINE
Dated: May 18th, 2010 ----- Bids Due: June 8th, 2010 @ 11:00 AM
The Town of Dexter, as a municipal corporation is a tax exempt organization.

Brief Job Description: Phase I Renovation shall include but not necessarily be limited to the following: exterior renovations to include new roof, windows and doors, new siding and trimwork, foundations in rear of building, new deck and deck railings, general painting; interior renovation to include structural repairs and replacement, new stairs and partitions, new finishes, ADA compliant bathroom, general painting, plumbing revisions, new power distribution and lighting, new heating system, and any other incidental work.

Sealed Proposals, from qualified General Contractors, for the construction of Phase I of the Fossa Building Renovation, Dexter, Maine, will be received at the office of the Town Manager, Town of Dexter, 23 Main Street, Dexter, Maine 04930 until 11 AM on Tuesday June 8th, 2010. Bid opening will occur at 12 Noon on June 8th, 2010 at the office of the Town Manager, Town of Dexter, 23 Main Street, Dexter, Maine 04930 and will be a public opening. This project is funded in part by a Community Development Block Grant. Therefore this project will comply with the Davis-Bacon Act wage rates. The Town of Dexter reserves the right to waive all formalities, and reject any and all Proposals or to accept any Proposal.

Proposals shall be on the forms provided in the Project Manual and shall include the following:
Bid Form, Bid Proposal Cost Breakdown, a satisfactory Bid Bond in an amount equal to 5% of the Proposal, a Contractor's Qualification Statement (contained in the Project Manual), and signed copies of all required Certifications as noted in the Information For Bidders (included in the Project manual).

Sealed Proposals shall be in envelopes plainly marked: Proposal for the Fossa Building Renovation, Dexter, Maine.

There will be a mandatory Pre-Bid Conference and Walk-Through at the project location for all Contractors at 1:00 PM on Thursday May 27th, 2010.

Bid Documents, and Project Manuals may be obtained for a nonrefundable deposit of $55.00 payable to: QA13 Architects @ 38 Columbia Street, Bangor, Maine 04401 on or about May 18th, 2010. Additional sets of Documents will be available for review on or about May 18th 2010, at the following locations:

Abbott Memorial Library
1 Church Street Dexter, Maine 04930
Construction Summary of Maine
74 Gilman Road, Bangor, Maine 04401
Dodge Reports
224 Gorham Rd Scarborough, Maine 04074

The selected Contractor will be required to furnish a 100% Contract Performance Bond and a 100% Contract Payment Bond to cover the execution of the Work which shall be in conformity with the forms provided in the Project manual.

Owner
Town of Dexter
23 Main Street
Dexter, Maine 04930

Architect
QA13 Architects
38 Columbia Street
Bangor, Maine 04401

BIDDING REQUIREMENTS AND INSTRUCTIONS TO BIDDERS

New offers

2010-05-03T11:39:00.000-07:00

I just got a phone call from Frankie Spizuoco from MaineMilitary.com. Said he had been reading the Dexter Gazette over the weekend and saw our story on the Fossa Building and knew that he had some stuff that we might be able to use. Frankie is very generous to the community and has been for years~

He has some dry goods display cases and some metal wall grid that you can use hanging stuff off from, or putting shelving up on.

Thanks Frankie!!!
Anyone reading this, if you come across kitchen supplies, coolers, etc. give me a call or email. I will posted in the near future some of the things we are going to have to have... ie, 3 hole sink, refrigerators, ice cream machine and even the small stuff to work in the kitchen with.

Thanks for reading... 'til later...

Volunteer Day take 2

2010-05-01T12:42:00.000-07:00

It was a terrific spring day today which is probably why only 4 people showed up to work today.
Regulars, Dave P. and myself and 2 new volunteers, Tim Breen and Louise Robinson.

We worked on taking down the tin on the ceilings and got that job completed by noon!

I wish we had some 'safe' power, and we could have a radio playing and not listen to Dave and Tim singing their little songs about nothin'... Actually Louise mentioned that we should be writing down their lyrics for later... NOT!!! With those 2, the songs will never end... Don't tell 'em but they really are funny and entertaining, it will be our little secret~

Charlie Chabot is going to stop by some evening and hook up one outlet for us to use for now.

Here are some pictures from today... http://picasaweb.google.com/fossageneralstore/Volunteer050110

Volunteer Day ... again...

2010-04-30T10:45:00.001-07:00

Can you spare a few hours tomorrow morning?

We are going to have another work day tomorrow, Saturday, May 1st starting at 9 AM. We all have lots to do, so we will only go until noon or so.
lease bring hammers, sledge hammers, or any tools you think to take down interior walls with.

Please bring gloves and safety eyewear if you want.

Any questions call Judy at 924.3067 or on Saturday at 207.1240 (cell)

We had a great time last week, and we can have more fun tomorrow with your help ...
Hopefully the RFP is going out to the General Contractor in a couple weeks, so we have a lot to do.
Judy

Generous offers

2010-04-29T07:12:00.000-07:00

This week Tina Belair of Darby Creek (www.RandHillFarms.com) messaged me to say she has a display case, steam table and proofing racks that we may be interest in. Yipee!!!
AND Pam Fyrberg of DexterPrintShop.com offered her help in any print needs we may have.
It is so gratifying to have local businesses support our efforts for the Fossa General Store.
This afternoon talked with 2 of our interested farmers.
Gail from Leaves & Blooms in Dover-Foxcroft who has fresh veggies and baked goods for sale at her place on Rt 23.
New caller, Marie Kirven of Sweet Dreams Food & Farm in St. Albans. She is growing lavender, herbs, eggs, baked goods, jams, teas, and more. Can't wait to visit her place soon, but she is going to try and come to our meeting next Tuesday, May 4th!

FARMERS: If you haven't already, would you mind making out a survey for us? Your information will remain anonymous if you want.
You can find the survey at Dexter Farm Project website. Just fill out and send to Judy. Address is on the survey. This info will help us in knowing what we will have to offer our future customers.
thanks.... jc

Wednesday update

2010-04-28T09:28:00.000-07:00

Our 3 volunteer workers, Priscilla, Crystal & Stewart are doing a great job at the store. They are working on removing the tin today from the walls with great care. Not sure how we refinish it, I will check with our architects. They have done stuff like this before.
Roger Brawn, Dave Pearson and I went in the 'rabbit hole' today under and between the Dexter Cafe & the Fossa Store. Holy hanna, it is like a cave down there~ No man's land! Steve Wintle is coming up with a plan for the rabbit hole I guess.
that's it for now... have a great wet day!

Tuesday update

2010-04-27T14:01:00.000-07:00

Dave and I did some banking today for a couple hours. We had to cash in our CD and started a new Checking account with Skowhegan Savings Bank. Thanks Val for all your help!
We also had 3 volunteers work at the store front today cleaning up the floors and moving debris that we tore out last Saturday.
They did a great job and will be going back tomorrow to gently take down the old tin wall covering that we are planning to reuse in the store. It was original to the building for many, many years.
If you would like to help, please give Judy a call at 924.3067
click for todays pictures

Dexter Farm Project update

2010-04-26T10:16:00.000-07:00

Dexter Regional Development Corporation (DRDC) has been busy over the winter months working with regional farmers, farmer friends and QA13 Architects with plans for the rehab of the Fossa General Store.

A lot of GREAT businesses in the Dexter area have been helpful in giving us their expert advice on everything from heating systems, wood products, siding, flooring, environmental issues and more AND they expect nothing in return! They realize with our CDBG grant, almost everything has to go out to bid and it will be up to the General Contractor chosen to choose companies they will be working with. (in most cases)

We would like to thank them for their advice on quality, pricing and practicality in the commercial space: Steve Wintle our environmental guy, Louis Easler at Dexter Lumber, Matt Scott of Dave's World, for heating systems, Mark & Tom from AE Robinson, Jay Bradley of Bradley Heating, George McCourt, Tillson True Value, John Higgins at Yoder Lumber, Kris Kowel and so many more. Many have offered FREE services or "at cost" because they believe in our project!!! We appreciate all those people and more for their time in providing us with knowledge.

DRDC and supporting staff continue their efforts in writing grants and brainstorming on raising funds for the store. Currently Jason has applied for a USDA Grant for our Commercial Kitchen appliances & fixtures. If you have any fund raising ideas, let us know. We are currently looking for refrigeration units, display cases, etc. Donations are accepted for this Non-Profit project that reaches out across a 25 plus mile radius of Dexter and supports the local farmer while creating an agricultural economy.

On Saturday, April 24th 2010 we held our 1st work day when volunteers from DRDC, Farmers and friends got their hands dirty at the future home of the Fossa General Store.
The energetic crew demo'd some of the ceilings, took down some wall partitions out and hauled trash. We worked hard until our trash trailer was overly full and didn't want to just stack trash only to move it again. Craig P. took 1 or 2 loads of old metal to the Transfer Station.
Everyone was dusty, dirty and we worked hard in those hours and got so much done AND had fun. (LOTS MORE TO GO)
We will be having another work day soon, but really good news, in the meantime, Dave has arranged for the Charleston Correctional Center work crew to put in a full day at the store.
We set up an account at Tillsons and Norma and I kept running across to pick up tools, trash bags, broom etc. They joked with us every time we went in because we were dirtier than the previous visit.
Workers included: Steve Wintle, Fred Wintle, Jason Bird, Courtney Brown, Josh Doore, Norma Batchelder, Dave Pearson, Steve Craig, Lauraine & Craig Piquette, and Judy Wilbur Craig.
Supporters behind the scene or showing up later: Fred Sherburne brought his trailer & picked it up to take to the dump, Roger Brawn did behind the scenes planning (both had to work at real jobs, but helped a lot) and Sue Watson, Jonathan Wilbur, Amanda Flagg Lupo showed up to help, but the rest of us were done and spitting dust.
I think I am speaking for most of us, despite the dirty work, we had a great time and it is a step closer....
We have lots more to do before the General Contractor is chosen, so let me know if YOU can help and when. The RFP will be issued in the very near future for the GC and will be advertised for those interested.
Here is a link to some pictures taken on Saturday, April 24th: http://picasaweb.google.com/dexterdrdc/1stVolunteerDay
If you would like to get involved in this community project or would like to learn more about it, call Judy at 924.3067, email judy@DexterFarmProject.com or check out the website at DexterFarmProject.com
The next monthly meeting is Tuesday, May 4th at 7 PM at the Dexter Town Council Chambers. The informal meetings are open to farmers, friends of farmers and consumers. The Dexter Farm Project meetings are held monthly on the 1st Tuesday of every month.

April 8, 2010 meeting notice

2010-04-26T10:15:00.000-07:00

We will be holding a special meeting for a variety of reasons on Tuesday, April 20th, one of which is a Public Hearing starting at 6:30 pm (text to follow)
====

The Dexter Regional Development Corporation intends to file an application for federal assistance with the United States Department of Agriculture Rural Development.
This assistance is needed for the purpose of financing the build out of the commercial kitchen and equipment for the year round farmer's market that will be created in the Fossa Building in Dexter.
Any interested party may attend an informational meeting at the Town of Dexter Council Chambers at 23 Main Street, Dexter Maine 04930 At 6:30pm on April 20th

We will follow the Public Hearing with a regular Farmers meeting to discuss the work that we are doing with our Architects QA13 and the progress they are making, the heating system, and the upcoming "volunteer work days" we need to get started ASAP and many other details.

I want to give a shout out to a lot of GREAT businesses in the Dexter area that are giving us their expert advice on everything from heating systems, wood products, siding, flooring, environmental issues and more AND they expect nothing in return! They realize with our particular grant that things have to go out to bid and it will be up the the General Contractor to choose companies in most cases.
But I would like to thank them for their advice on quality, pricing and practicality in the commercial space are Steve Wintle on environmental and heating systems, Louis at Dexter Lumber, Matt Scott of Dave's World, the AE Robinson guys, Jay Bradley, George McCourt, Tillson True Value, John Higgins at Yoder Lumber, Kris Kowel and so many more. Many have offered FREE services or "at cost" because they believe in our project!!!
I think I can speak for Roger Brawn and myself, we are learning a lot about a lot of things in a short few months and in many meetings. AND we appreciate all those people and more for their time in providing us with knowledge.

I also have been working with Insurance Companies (4 in total) to get Builders Risk Insurance & Liability. (How confusing it is!) Roger and I are meeting with some this coming week. I need help on this one... who know insurance could be so confusing and so expensive!!!

The Environmental Abatements (the asbestos pipes in the basement & the lead paint in the ceiling tile) have been completed. We also had to have the water & power turned on.

I hope you can come to the meeting this coming Tuesday & we will get you all caught up on the news and set up a few work days at the Fossa General Store. These need to be done before the General Contractor starts. The RFP for the GC will be going out, I expect, in the next few weeks.

If you have any questions, feel free to give me a call.... and hope to see you soon...
Judy

1st day journaling

2010-03-09T13:22:00.000-08:00

Hi all,
I thought I might be able to keep track of what I am doing each day for the Farm Project on a blog and at the same time let you know what is going on.
Let's see how it goes and if I can stick with it :)

First off today:
Farmer Fred Sherburne, DRDC President Roger Brawn, David Pearson and I (Executive Director Judy Wilbur Craig) met in Dave's office to go over some ideas we want to discuss with QA13 Architects Paula & Ken.
We have been talking for almost a year since we started the Dexter Community Farm Project, that we wanted to go as "GREEN" as we could with the building. Some things are just not possible because of location, lack of space, etc. but others may be doable.
Fred is looking in pellet heating right now vs. LP gas and/or oil. We are looking at both operating costs as well as efficiency of both the workers and the overall heat.

We also met with Steve Wintle (our environmental guy), who met with environmental contractors during the PreBid today & will again tomorrow. The bids should be awarded Friday and the environmental issues will be done hopefully by March 31st.

The volunteers will be able to work around April and the RFP will be going out near the end of April for the General Contractor.

This afternoon I am working with the 3 local insurance agencies on "builders risk" insurance. Hopefully I have that name right. Anywho........ I should have the quotes soon.

What else can happen today?
Please feel free to make comments or suggestions on the blog.
Judy