Teachers to take the plunge

It is that time of year again when a group of warm-hearted people will jump in the cold ocean to help others. On New Year’s Day, a team comprised of Raymond teachers and community members will take the icy plunge into the Atlantic Ocean to benefit Special Olympics programs of Maine. Team Raymond consists of John Keller, Jack Fitch, John Dionne, Mary Thornton, George Tanguay, John Powers and Jean Thornton.

The mission of Special Olympics is to provide year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities, giving them continuing opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy and participate in sharing of gifts, skills and friendship with their families, other Special Olympics athletes, and the community.

Instead of spending your money on fruitcakes and Chia Pets this season, give a gift that will really make a difference in the lives of many people. Join me and sponsor Team Raymond as they bravely take the plunge. Checks should be made payable to Special Olympics Maine and mailed to John Keller at 22 Charlonate Drive, Gray, ME 04039.

Winter reading

Could there be anything more comforting than curling up near a warm fire with a good book? The selection at the Raymond Village Library continues to grow every day and includes all the latest bestsellers and a wide variety of books, audios and videos. However, winter weather is here and with that, safety is a priority. In the event of inclement weather, the library may be closed so call ahead before making the drive. In addition, if school is closed or delayed, storytime will be cancelled for that day.

I would also like to remind you about the library’s outreach program. If you are unable to get to the library due to winter conditions, lack of transportation, illness, or any other reason, feel free to call the library at 655-4283, and they will be happy to deliver your reading materials to you.

Fundraisers a success

I know I say it all the time, but it is worth repeating. The community spirit in this town is incredible and I am so happy to be a part of it. When Chris Brum was diagnosed with adrenal cancer, a group of caring people pulled together some fundraisers. Last week’s Zumbathon was a huge success with a gym full of people having a great time and raising $2,400. The holiday craft fair also had a fabulous turnout with another $1,300 raised. So many people played a huge part in the success of both of these fundraisers, but in particular, Kathleen Tolman and Ivy Jordan deserve special thanks and recognition for their tireless efforts and deep sense of generosity. In addition, thank you to Dinah Aldrich, the queen of Zumba, whose unmatched energy has now hooked more people into Zumba thus a healthier, more fun lifestyle for all. The Brum family wishes to thank the community for the support and friendship during this difficult time.

Upcoming PHK events

The next Parents Helping Kids Make Good Choices meeting is scheduled for Thursday, Jan. 14, from 6:30-8 p.m. at the home of Beth Gaudet and upcoming events will be discussed.

On Saturday, Jan. 22, Andrea Withers of Natural Motion Martial Arts will be holding a class at Center Stage Performing Arts for students in eighth through twelfth grade. The goal of the instruction is to provide kids with helpful information so they can respond effectively in dangerous situations such as abduction and peer pressure. The information gathered will help boost self confidence which will aid them in making appropriate decisions. The subject matter will be helpful not only to them but to their peers and they could potentially use these skills to help others in difficult situations. If you are interested in securing a spot for your teenager, e-mail Teresa Odum at acty7@msn.com.

A meeting will be held on Jan. 30 at the Public Safety Building so that parents and kids 15 years and beyond may learn of the Explorer Program which provides youth with fire fighting and emergency medical technician skills training. For more information, contact Kathleen Tolman at ktolman7@maine.rr.com.

Enjoying the ride

While winter has finally arrived complete with snowstorms, frigid temperatures and school cancellations, we definitely had a warm fall. For me, that meant an extended cycling season and I enjoyed riding on our quieter, foliage draped roads. After my final ride, I glanced down at the computer and noticed I had rolled over 10,000 miles. I stood there stunned for a moment wondering how that was possible; my bike is only three years old. Granted, I log over 3,000 miles a year and mathematically that makes sense, but 10,000 miles? I have been told I am a bit crazy and obsessive when it comes to cycling, but I have always denied that charge, stating I simply enjoy riding. Perhaps I should reconsider? Since I am confessing, I probably should admit that those miles are just on one bike and do not include any miles I have ridden on my other bike, nor any miles I have raced, nor indoor training rides.

My riding has taken me all over New England and brought so many people into my life. However, I have ridden the bulk of those miles alone on our own very hilly but endearing roads here in Raymond. I have ridden on extremely hot, cold, wet, dry, windy and calm days, and I have loved every minute of it. I realize this hobby of mine may seem like irrational behavior to many people, but it makes perfect sense to me.

At this time of year, while counting blessings and focusing on goals for the new year, I recognize that I am so fortunate to have something I am incredibly passionate about. I hope that each of you discover something that brings you joy and drives you to be a bit irrational at times. If you already have found it, I hope you make time for it daily, disregard the guilt that comes with self-care, and recognize the immense benefits your own happiness will bring to others.

As for me, now I am scheming. After more thought, 10,000 miles in three years does not seem like a lot at all and I am excited to ride more. In the meantime, I suppose it is time I admit that maybe, just maybe, I am a little obsessed. Maybe.