Thank You to "He Who Shall Not be Named".......

 

Deborah's been SOOO busy that despite her man's persistence,

she hasn't had the time to go Truck Shopping with him.

UNTIL TODAY

After being reported to Facebook by "He who shall not be named",

Deborah not ONLY went Truck Shopping,

but seems her guy's awfully happy driving around in his

Chevy Silverado Pick Up Truck

 this afternoon!!!

 

SO happy, in fact,

that after a homemade meal,

he's snoozing like a

BABY

in his New Recliner!!

 

There's ALWAYS something to be Thankful for!!!

 

 

YUP, we're SO miserable not being able to post on Facebook!!

Can't Keep a Good Woman Down. A day at the Isinglass River in Rochester.

November 20, 2015

Even though it's a bit more difficult, Deborah still has the ability to post on the blog page and then Sandy can share the blog and post it to Facebook.

So I'll go back to showing you what a LOVELY time my Gary and I had today over on the Gonic Trails on the Waste Management property in Rochester.

Deborah and Gary at Isinglass Falls in Rochester, NH.

 

The Isinglass Falls were beautiful today!!

A perfect day for walking!!

 

The Isinglass River was beautiful today!! Swift and Cold!

 

Everywhere we looked was Beauty!!

 

While there are roots and rocks underfoot, the trails are well kept and easy to walk.

 

We went off the trail a bit and climbed to the top of a ledge.

There in the woods, we found a simple little cemetery.

The name on the headstone read, RUCA.

We're assuming by the size of the grave RUCA may have been a dog.

 

We saw lots of squirrel stashes everywhere, but never did see any squirrels!

 

There were the remnants of an old foundation,

there were lots of old metal items within.

We find them pretty, do you??

 

Just another brick in the wall!!

The red brick was eyecatching next to the large stones!

 

Bittersweet vine was everywhere lending LOTS of fall color!

 

LOTS of moss and fungus!

 

The trails are well marked.

All you have to do is look for the metal markers on the trees.

 

The moon began rising in a crystal blue sky.

Time to head home and care for the animals.

 

 

 

 

Maine Unemployment Rate 4.3 Percent in October

State Labor Commissioner Jeanne Paquette released October workforce estimates for Maine. Seasonally Adjusted Statewide Data Household Survey Estimates – The preliminary seasonally adjusted unemployment rate of 4.3 percent for October was little changed from 4.4 percent in September and down from 5.6 percent one year ago. The unemployment rate was the lowest since 2002. The number of unemployed declined 9,600 over the year to 29,100. The U.S. preliminary unemployment rate of 5.0 percent was little changed from 5.1 percent in September and down from 5.7 percent one year ago. The estimate of the employment to population ratio (age 16 and over) in Maine of 59.6 percent was the lowest in four years. In the years ahead, the share of employed population is likely to gradually trend lower as large numbers of baby boomers retire. The U.S. average was 59.3 percent. The New England unemployment rate averaged 4.6 percent. Rates for other states were 3.3 percent in New Hampshire, 3.7 percent in Vermont, 4.6 percent in Massachusetts, 5.3 percent in Rhode Island, and 5.1 percent in Connecticut. Labor force and unemployment data is available here. Payroll Survey Estimates – The preliminary nonfarm payroll jobs estimate of 611,300 for October was up 5,500 from one year ago. The gain was entirely in the private sector, primarily in the professional and business services, hospitality, and healthcare sectors. The estimate for government was unchanged from one year ago. Nonfarm payroll jobs data is available here. Not Seasonally Adjusted Substate Data The not seasonally adjusted statewide unemployment rate estimate of 3.6 percent in October was down from 4.9 percent one year ago. Not seasonally adjusted rates were down over the year in all 16 counties, with the largest decline in Franklin County (-1.8 points). Rates ranged from 2.8 percent in Sagadahoc County to 5.4 percent in Somerset County. The unemployment rate was below the statewide average in the Portland-South Portland metro (2.9 percent) and close to the average in Lewiston-Auburn (3.5 percent) and Bangor (3.5 percent). This release is available here. November workforce estimates will be released Friday, December 18 (Data Release Schedule). NOTES: 1. Preliminary labor force estimates, including unemployment and employment to population ratios for Maine, tend to move in a direction for several months and then reverse course. Those directional trends are largely driven by a smoothing procedure and may not indicate a change in underlying workforce conditions. Annual revisions (to be published in March 2016) will moderate or eliminate those directional patterns. In addition, the 90 percent confidence interval for statewide unemployment rates in 2015 has been 0.5 to 0.7 percentage points above or below the published estimate each month. 2. Nonfarm payroll jobs estimates tend to be volatile from month to month because there is variability in the sample of reporting employers and their representativeness for the universe of all employers. Additionally, seasonal adjustment is imperfect because weather, the beginning and ending of school semesters and holidays, and other events do not always occur with the same timing, which can exacerbate monthly volatility. Users should look to the trend over multiple months rather than the change from one specific month to another. Estimates for the period from October 2014 to September 2015 will be replaced with actual payroll data in March 2016. Those benchmark revisions are likely to show less volatility than preliminary estimates.

Department of Labor Offering Workplace Safety Classes in December

 

11/20/2015 11:14 AM EST

*Space is available for classes in Augusta*

AUGUSTA-The Maine Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Standards is hosting its no-charge safety courses for employers and employees throughout December. Visit the class registration page or call 1-877-SAFE 345 (1-877-723-3345) to register for any class.

"By August 2016, the federal government will significantly increase OSHA fines for the first time in 25 years, some by as much as 80 percent," said Governor Paul R. LePage. "Our consultants at SafetyWorks! can help businesses and workers identify and address hazards around the worksite. I encourage businesses to take advantage of all SafetyWorks! programs and consultations. The return-on-investment in workplace safety, in quality of life as well as financial, is well worth the effort."

Courses are held at no charge to employers and their employees in the SafetyWorks! Training Institute at the Maine Department of Labor, 45 Commerce Drive in Augusta.

10-Hour Construction Standards: December 2 to 3, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

This one-and-a-half-day course gives basic information on several of the OSHA standards for construction (29 CFR 1926). Attendees who complete the course will receive an OSHA 10-hour course completion certificate. Class runs from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on day one and 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on day two.

Fire Extinguisher/Emergency Action Plan: December 10, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

In this class, you will learn about Emergency Action Plans as well as various types of fire extinguishers and how to maintain them. This is a hands-on class. Those attending this class should come prepared to discharge a fire extinguisher.

OSHA Recordkeeping: December 11, 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

This class provides thorough and comprehensive six-hour training for both new and experienced safety and human resources personnel. You will learn the OSHA rule (29 CFR 1904) regarding recording and reporting work-related injuries and illnesses as it applies to your organization. This class includes several hands-on activities on how to correctly fill out the required injury reporting forms.This class will include updates to the OSHA Recordkeeping Standard (29 CFR 1904) which went into effect January 1, 2015.

30-Hour General Industry Standards: December 14 thru 18, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

This five-day course introduces attendees new to safety and health to the OSHA standards for general industry (29 CFR 1910). Attendees who complete all five days will receive an OSHA 30-hour general industry course certificate. Class runs from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., day one through day five.

Interested employers can learn more about the courses and register at http://www.safetyworksmaine.com , click "More Classes" from the homepage. Space is limited so reservations are required.

SafetyWorks! is not OSHA and cannot issue fines or citations to private businesses. While SafetyWorks! helps businesses of any size, priority is given to small businesses. The program trains about 8,000 people and consults at nearly 1,000 worksites in Maine each year. Employers interested in learning more about the consulting and training services offered by SafetyWorks! should call

1-877-SAFE 345  ~~~ (1-877-723-3345)

or visit http://www.safetyworksmaine.com .

The Bureau of Labor Standards is Maine's regulatory agency overseeing labor and employment law and workplace safety; it provides both consultation and enforcement services. The division promotes and achieves compliance with labor standards to protect and enhance the welfare of Maine's workforce.

The State of Maine is an equal opportunity provider. Auxiliary aids and services are available to individuals with disabilities upon request.

City of Rochester NH Announces Dates for 2015 Christmas Tree Lighting and Christmas Parade!!

 

ROCHESTER NH TREE LIGHTING... FRIDAY DECEMBER 4

 

ROCHESTER CHRISTMAS PARADE..... SUNDAY DECEMBER 6

 

DOWNTOWN ROCHESTER NH

 

December Programs for Job Seekers at the York County CareerCenter (Springvale)

 

 

 

11/17/2015 10:09 AM EST

SPRINGVALE - The York County CareerCenter in Springvale continues its workshop programs for job seekers and those considering training to upgrade their skills and increase their employability.

"We have over 9,000 jobs listed this month on Maine's Job Bank," said Governor Paul R. LePage. "Mainers looking for work should visit our CareerCenters for no-cost assistance. The staff can help you register and use the Job Bank in your job search, write a proper resume, and prepare for the job interview. I encourage you to visit your local CareerCenter to find the workshops that meet your needs."

CareerCenters can assist businesses by offering workshops on location, at local businesses or other organizations at no cost. The following workshops and programs will be held at the CareerCenter in Springvale unless otherwise noted.

Resume Writing - Tuesday, December 1, 9 to 11:30 a.m.

Explore the basics of resume writing and learn how to promote the qualifications you have that directly match what the employer needs. Registration required.

Essentials of College Planning Workshop - Monday, December 7 and 21, 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Randi Paine from the Maine Educational Opportunity Center (MEOC) will be offering a free workshop for adults 19 and older covering topics on College Awareness and Planning along with the Federal Financial Aid process. The instructor will assist participants in completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Space is limited please call Karen Hadley Keim at 1-800-281-3703 or 581-3736 to register or visit MEOC's website, meoc.maine.edu.

Monthly Job Fair at the CareerCenter - Thursday, December 10, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Explore your next employment opportunity. Bank of America, Planned Parenthood, Arcadia, In Home Senior Services, Durgin Pines, YCCAC, and Group Main Street will be here recruiting for openings. No appointment required.

GATEways to Employment - Friday, December 11 and 29, 9 a.m. to noon

Join us for the beginning installment of our "workshop trilogy." Learn how assessments can identify abilities, interests, and skills and discover the unadvertised job market. Other topics include Job Search Strategies, Resumes, Cover Letter Tips and Interviewing. Registration required.

USM College Planning Workshop - Monday, December 14, 2 to 3 p.m.

Did you begin your college degree a long time ago and want to finish what you started? Or maybe you're an adult that didn't take the traditional route out of high school and now want to explore getting a degree? Are you interested in transferring to the University of Southern Maine and want to get more information about the process and how your credits will transfer? Want to attend graduate school, but need to complete a bachelor's degree before moving on? If any of these things apply to you, come explore all of the opportunities USM has to offer adult students.

Topics covered in this workshop include: Degrees and flexible programming for adults; Prior Learning Assessment (Credit for life and work experience); Transferability of credit and unofficial evaluations; The Admissions and Financial Aid process. By attending this workshop you will qualify to get your $40 application fee for an undergraduate degree waived along with some great information and resources! We will also connect you with an Enrollment Counselor who will be available to help you through the process of becoming a USM student.

To register contact Tina Howe at USM christina.howe@maine.edu or call Tina at 228-8199.

Interview Skills - Tuesday, December 15, 9 a.m. to noon

Learn how to emphasize your skills, overcome objections and motivate the interviewer to hire you. Registration required.

The Job Cafe - Fridays, November 20, and December 11 and 18, 12:30 to 3 p.m.

Join us for this four-part series on dealing with job loss and handling stress. Attend any session or all sessions; it's your choice!

Are you feeling a loss of identity, daily routine and sense of financial security or work-based social network? Losing your job forces you to make rapid changes. You may feel angry, hurt, panicked, rejected, and scared. You are not alone! Engage or just listen. Registration is required.

Part 1: Job Loss and Unemployment Stress, Friday, November 20 Part 2 and 3: Handling Stress and Self-Esteem, December 11 Part 4: Prioritizing on December 18 Free Training Opportunity through Maine Quality Center - October 19 through December 16, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Biddeford Training Facility (North Dam Mill, Building 18, Room 130)

York County Community College has been awarded a Maine Quality Center (MQC) grant for a FREE training program to prepare unemployed or underemployed Mainers for interviews for open positions at Maine companies and is currently accepting applications. The MQC grant will fund 320 hours of pre-hire training at NO COST to trainees. Trainees MUST be Maine residents, have a high school diploma or GED, and have reliable transportation. All participants will be assessed in math and reading.

Training will be offered in:

Communications and Meetings Computers Basic Math Industrial Safety and Lean Concepts Problem Solving and Decision Making Blueprint Reading and Metal Forming Teams and Teamwork Resume Writing and Interviewing For more information, updates or to apply visit yccc.edu or contact Rachel in YCCC's Department of Business & Community Programs at 207-216-4344 or rlevasseur@yccc.edu. Applications are also available at your local CareerCenter.

Employer Recruitments for December - Weekly Job fair: Adecco Staffing, CoWorx, and Springborn Staffing will be recruiting at the York County CareerCenter from 1 to 4 p.m. on the following Mondays: December 7, 21 28. Current openings in Sanford, Biddeford, Saco and Portland areas. No appointment is required. Please bring two valid forms of ID. Please check our website for updates and additions. Schedule is subject to change.

Competitive Skills Scholarship Program

The Competitive Skills Scholarship helps workers learn new skills and succeed in a changing economy. The program is open to all qualified Maine residents and pays for education and training for high-wage jobs in demand in Maine. York County is currently accepting applications for the program. For more information or to download an application please follow this link: http://www.mainecareercenter.com/services-programs/training/cssp/index.shtml

The York County CareerCenter will also feature several sessions led by these partner organizations in August:

Women Unlimited - Consultations with a Non-Traditional Occupations Specialist for those interested in exploring non-traditional occupations (NTO) for women, and who are considering a potentially better-paying job. Contact Sue LeClair, NTO specialist at (207) 215-6992.

Workforce Solutions administers federally funded employment and training programs through the Workforce Innovation Opportunity Act (WIOA). Certain eligibility requirements apply. If you think you might qualify or could benefit from this program, please call the Workforce Solutions Center in Biddeford at 207-571-3301 to schedule a date for a training orientation.

New Ventures Maine - Helping Maine people succeed in their jobs, businesses, and communities. We help individuals recognize strengths, overcome barriers, find resources, develop a plan, and take action towards their goals: start a business, find a career, return to school, build assets, and be active in the community. Looking for something different? Register for no-cost trainings at locations across Maine. Check on line to see what we have scheduled or call 1-800-442-2092.

Follow and keep track of our latest events on LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter. To find us on LinkedIn, go to LinkedIn.com and search for "York County Maine CareerCenter." To find us on Facebook, go to Facebook.com and search "York County Maine CareerCenter." To follow us on Twitter, go to Twitter.com and search for "York CareerCenter."

CareerCenters, part of the Maine Department of Labor, offer a variety of services to help people find employment or upgrade skills. Each center provides several public-access computer workstations with Microsoft Office software, resume writing and cover letter software, Internet access and O'Net software for skills assessment. All CareerCenter services are free of charge.

The York County CareerCenter, located at 9 Bodwell Court in Springvale, is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday and can be reached at 207-324-5460 or 1-800-343-0151 (TTY users should dial Maine Relay 711). You can also find more information at the CareerCenter website, http://www.mainecareercenter.com . Maine CareerCenters are an equal opportunity provider. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.

Tyson Foods Inc. Recalls 28 oz bags of Tyson Anytizer Fully Cooked Hot Wings Due to Possible Adulteration.

Tyson Foods Inc. Recalls Chicken Product Due To Possible Adulteration 

 

Class II Recall 141-2015Health Risk: Low Nov 17, 2015

WASHINGTON, Nov. 17, 2015 – Tyson Foods Inc., a Pine Bluff, Ark. establishment, is recalling approximately 52,486 pounds of chicken wing product that may be adulterated because of having an “off odor” scent, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today.

The fully cooked buffalo style chicken wing section item was produced on October 24, 2015 and October 25, 2015. The following product is subject to recall: [Labels (PDF Only)]      

• 28-oz. retail bags containing multiple pieces of “Tyson® Any’tizers® Fully Cooked Hot Wings® CHICKEN WING SECTIONS COATED WITH A FLAVORFUL HOT, TANGY SAUCE” with use by/sell by dates of October 24, 2016 and October 25, 2016, packaging dates 2975PBF0508-23/2985PBF0500-01 and case codes 2975PBF0508-23/2985PBF0500-01.  

The product subject to recall bear establishment number “P-13456” inside the USDA mark of inspection as well as on the back of the bag above the heating instructions. These items were shipped to retail locations nationwide.                                 

The problem was discovered when Tyson Foods Inc. received consumer complaints about the product being “off-odor” as well mild illness associated with consumption. After these consumer complaints, Tysons Food Inc. brought this to the attention of FSIS.

There have been no confirmed reports of adverse reactions due to consumption of these products by FSIS. Anyone concerned about an injury or illness should contact a healthcare provider.  

Consumers who have purchased these products are urged not to consume them. These products should be thrown away or returned to the place of purchase.

FSIS routinely conducts recall effectiveness checks to verify recalling firms notify their customers of the recall and that steps are taken to make certain that the product is no longer available to consumers.

Consumers with food safety questions can "Ask Karen," the FSIS virtual representative available 24 hours a day at AskKaren.gov or via smartphone at m.askkaren.gov. The toll-free USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline 1-888-MPHotline (1-888-674-6854) is available in English and Spanish and can be reached from l0 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Eastern Time) Monday through Friday. Recorded food safety messages are available 24 hours a day. The online Electronic Consumer Complaint Monitoring System can be accessed 24 hours a day at: http://www.fsis.usda.gov/reportproblem.