Happy May Day!
New this week:
The CCC invites service providers to the 4th session of our Provider Wellness Series: Mindful Nature Journaling for Providers, presented by Elin MacKinnon, LCSW. No artistic talent is required to begin this adventure into nature journaling as a tool for connection with nature and yourself. Join us for an introduction to nature journaling for beginners. We will explore what it is, how to get started and what you’ll need to make nature journaling part of your self care routine. This session is designed for service providers who would like to explore the many mental and physical health benefits of nature journaling for mindfulness and stress relief. Join us in person at 11:30 on June 5th in the large conference room at SCEC, 7 Ames Way, Machias. Participation is limited to 15 so don’t delay, register now.
The Harold Alfond Center for the Advancement of Maine’s Workforce and the Maine Community College System have teamed up to present a free occupational training on May 22nd, 9 am — 1 pm at SCEC’s MaineStreet Business Building in Machias. This is a professional development training for supervisors and business leaders on remote and hybrid positions. Learn more here. Download a flyer with important information, or visit https://alfondcenter.mccs.me.edu/remote-events-spring24 for more details.
Join the Elder Abuse Institute of Maine for a fun-filled evening to celebrate 20 years of service, sharing food with friends, bidding on silent auction items and a chance to win one of our signature-themed raffle baskets, June 13th, 5 – 8 pm at the Harraseeket Inn in Freeport. Tickets here.
Eastern Area Agency on Aging invites you to their Healthy Aging Expo presented by Northern Light Home Care & Hospice, on May 16th, 10 am — 2 pm at Anah Shriners, 1404 Broadway, Bangor. This popular event connects local organizations and businesses with adults looking to live healthier, more engaged lives. Last year was our first since the pandemic and the event saw a near-record crowd with close to 1,000 attendees. We welcome over 70 vendors or sponsors to the event, with a wide array of services or resources, including housing, wellness and enrichment, travel, education, financial planning, and more. The Expo provides an unparalleled opportunity for information sharing and building community connections. (While you’re there, be sure to stop by the TCI display and say hello to Dante!)
The Beth C. Wright Cancer Resource Center is happy to be collaborating with the founder Autumn Clifford, head coach of “She’s An Asset” Situational Awareness Training. We are excited to announce She’s An Asset is coming to Baileyville, at the Beth C. Wright Cancer Resource Center and Baileyville Community Connection Center. Empower Yourself with Situational Awareness. Get ready to take control of your safety and well-being. Join us for an empowering class on Thursday, May 23rd, 5:30pm -7:30pm, at 163 Main Street, Baileyville. This class is for woman, young teens, mothers and daughters who want to feel safer at home, at school, and while out and about. All physical abilities welcomed as this is not a “self-defense” class. You will not be rolling around on the ground nor throwing anybody around. This is primarily educational with some hands-on techniques throughout class. To register, click this link to Autumn’s website: Please feel free to reach out to us if you have any questions by calling the Center at 207-664-0339, or email Angela Fochesato; angela@bethwrightcancercenter.org or Carrie Cropley; carrie@bethwrightcancercenter.org
University of Maine Cooperative Extension will host a two-part online informational session for adults interested in becoming Maine 4-H volunteers from 6-7 pm on May 22 and 29. “Start Your 4-H Volunteer Journey” will provide participants with information about the UMaine Extension 4-H youth development program through four short e-Learning modules. Attendees will also participate in an experiential educational activity, learn about the key aspects of positive youth development and be introduced to the ages and stages of youth. The two one-hour virtual sessions will wrap up with an outline of next steps and an introduction to a county staff contact to help with the application process if desired. A 4-H volunteer is many things: mentor, advisor, friend, teacher, referee, role model, pacesetter and much more. The informational sessions are free, registration is required on the program webpage. For more information or to request a reasonable accommodation, contact Jennifer Lobley, jennifer.lobley@maine.edu; 207-255-3345.
Machias Food Connections invites you to the Grand Opening of the Machias Area Community Supper, an open gathering around food and community, on Thursday, May 9th, at the Center Street Church. Join us at 4:30 for coffee/tea and mingling, then enjoy a community meal from 5 – 6. We plan to offer weekly meals each Thursday following. Download a flyer to share.
Are you ready to make a positive impact in Washington County? Join the Washington County Recovery Friendly Workplace (RFW) Network today! By becoming a member, your business gains access to a wealth of resources, dedicated support, specialized training, and invaluable connections with other employers who share your commitment to fostering recovery and wellness for a healthier workforce. Joining the no-cost RFW Network isn’t just beneficial for your business—it’s a crucial step in bolstering the overall well-being of our community. No matter the size of your business, we welcome you to be a part of this transformative movement. Ready to take the first step? Learn more about the network and submit a letter of interest here. For any inquiries, feel free to reach out to Dodie at demerson@sunrisecounty.org or 207-271-2132.
A recent Final Rule announced by the U.S. Department of Labor introduces pivotal adjustments to the salary requirements for exempt employees under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). These changes are essential for employers to understand and implement, as they significantly alter the earnings threshold necessary for exempt status. Starting from July 1, 2024, the minimum salary for exempt employees will increase, affecting not only the federal requirements but also aligning with adjustments in Maine’s own employment laws. This update will necessitate a strategic review of your current payroll structures to ensure compliance and avoid potential penalties. For a detailed breakdown of the new salary thresholds and to understand how these changes could affect your business directly, Employment & Labor Law attorneys Rudman Winchell invite you to read this full article for your strategic planning and compliance efforts in the coming months.
We all agree that, regardless of your financial situation, it’s hard to be a caregiver… But, it’s really scary to be a caregiver when you or your parents don’t have much money to pay for care. That’s because there’s nothing standing between your parent and an institution except your hard work and the family bank account. To find out how this is not your fault Daughterhood blog, 5 Dos and Don’ts for Staying Independent in Old Age, is linked HERE.