Casco Property Tax Bills

Casco’s 2008 tax bills should be sent by approximately Nov. 15. There will be a 60-day grace period before interest will begin.

Trick or Treating for UNICEF

On Halloween some very special fourth graders practiced a remarkable act of kindness. Mr. Dickerson, a fourth grade teacher at Crooked River Elementary School in Casco is as proud of his students as can be. One student in his class brought to his attention an organization called UNICEF. This organization supports the most disadvantaged children no matter where they live around the world by donating funds for immunizations, education, clean water and more. The idea is Kids Helping Kids by an annual Halloween campaign.

Kids had a UNICEF donation box that they carried with them Trick or Treating last week. While going door to door for treats, they asked for a donation to the cause. How about that? During the past 57 years, more than $136 million has been raised. Our fourth graders raised $166.13, which can purchase 100 vaccinations against Polio, Yellow Fever, and Measles, or 50 blankets, or 16 chalkboards for a school in a developing country.

“The pride, energy, and compassion demonstrated by this group of 17 10-year-olds was truly awe-inspiring. It was one of those most valuable of moments where the students teach the teacher and I was able to really learn something for my class.” Mr. Dickerson said.

We can all learn from children. Their innocent desire to change the world is a most precious gift that we can only hope remains in the hearts of adults to carry on remarkable acts of kindness like this. Thank you kids for helping other kids. For more information about UNICEF visit their Web site www.unicefusa.org.

SAD 61 Reminder

There is no school on Nov. 12 in observation of Veterans Day.

Breast Cancer Fundraiser Follow-Up

A couple of weeks ago I wrote about a local fund-raiser at the Casco Town Office, “Susan G. Komen for the Cure.” The goal was to raise $1,000. As of Oct. 31, the amount raised was $863. To donate call the Casco Town Office at 627-4515 or just stop in. Thank you.

Historical Society

The next meeting of the Raymond and Casco Historical Society is Monday, Nov. 12 at the Casco Public Library. The meeting starts at 7 p.m. Election of officers for next year will be held. Members will also be asked to approve the revised by-laws. Following the business meeting, Zeena and Henry Watkins will update members on the future of the Raymond-Casco Historical Society’s museum located on Route 302 next to the Watkins Farm.

WinterKids Passport

Are you ready for a whole winter of outdoor fun? Fifth, 6th and 7th graders are eligible for a passport of free and discounted winter activities including snow tubing, dog sledding, and skiing or snowboarding. This program is locally sponsored and supported. Simply visit www.winterkids.org and register to receive your passport. If you have questions, call 871-5700. Have fun outside all winter long.