Crossman honored by Society of Certified Insurance Counselors

CAMDEN — The Society of Certified Insurance Counselors (CIC) recently recognized Richard Crossman of Allen Insurance and Financial in Camden with a certificate honoring his 30 years of faithful participation in advanced education.

Crossman, who specializes in business insurance and works with some of Maine's largest and best-known companies, earned the designation through a series of examinations and has maintained his CIC designation by annual attendance at an approved CIC continuing education program.

The professional dedication and commitment represented by this achievement sets the standard within our industry, said William Hold, CIC, CPCU, CLU, president of the Society of CIC, in a news release.

Crossman is also a Certified Risk Manager (CRM), which provides a focus on all areas of managing risks, hazards and exposures.

"Dick's emphasis on professional development continues to set a great example for his colleagues, both at Allen Insurance and Financial and all around Maine," said Mike Pierce, agency president, in the news release.

The Society of CIC is a member of The National Alliance for Insurance Education and Research. This nonprofit organization serves more than 134,000nparticipants annually throughout all 50 states, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico. NAIER offers a wide variety of programs, publication and professional designation opportunities in the insurance and risk management industries.

Learn more online at TheNationalAlliance.com.

Allen Insurance and Financial is an insurance, employee benefits, and financial services company with offices in Rockland, Camden, Belfast and Southwest Harbor.

Online: AllenIF.com or call 800-439-4311.

Fisher and UMCC aid AIO Emergency Fund

ROCKLAND — In response to news of the sharp increase in the numbers of families asking Area Interfaith Outreach (AIO) in Rockland for help with buying fuel as well as food, Fisher Engineering's payroll deduction program has given AIO an end-of-the-year $5,000 gift through United Midcoast Charities (UMCC), designated for AIO's fuel assistance efforts.

Further, the board of UMCC has matched Fisher's gift with a second $5,000 check. Normally, gifts from UMCC are distributed to area good causes in October, but winter in Maine without heat is an emergency, according to a news release.

Pictured here accepting this gift is Sherry Cobb, president of AIO, with Craig MacIntosh and Todd Mackey from Fisher Engineering.

Located across from Rockland Middle School (at Broadway and Thomaston Street), AIO is open from 9:30 a.m. to noon, MWF, and serves all of Knox County.

Donations to help with food, fuel, and other essentials can be mailed to AIO, P.O. Box 113, Rockland, ME 04841. Gifts of shelf-stable food, paper products, and toiletries, always welcome, can be brought by when the pantry is open, or other times by appointment. Phone: 596-1043.

P.A.W.S. Animal Adoption Center welcomes five new board members

ROCKPORT — P.A.W.S. Animal Adoption Center welcomes five new members to the board of trustees: Royan Bartley of Rockport, John Burstein of Lincolnville, Sandy Cox of Camden, Kate Griffin of Hope, and Karen Reed of Appleton.

Royan Bartley is a master of science student of companion animal behavior analysis and counseling with the American College of Applied Science. As Royan utilizes her animal behavior knowledge with pet owners, she is also working on her master of science thesis. Royan has completed Low Stress Handling Dogs and Cats Certified Silver certification. Royan is also a supporting member of the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC) and a professional member of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT).

John Burstein has years of experience in business development, event organization and legislation. Burstein is best known for creating and staring as the PBS Television character “Slim Goodbody”.

Sandy Cox is a broker at the New England Real Estate Company in Camden. Cox has served as a member on the boards and committees of multiple community organizations, including the boards of the Penobscot Bay Regional Chamber of Commerce and West Bay Rotary.

Kate Griffin has been active in animal rescue through her career and community service. Griffin is a former vet tech at Camden Hospital for Animals and a former board member and volunteer of Hope Elephants.

Karen Reed has gained years of experience in insurance, finance and business networking through her work at Allen Insurance and Finance. Reed is a current member and serves as the secretary on the board of the Maine Contractors and Builders Alliance. She is also a former board member of the Penobscot Bay YMCA.

The five new members join a team of volunteers led by Joe Ryan the returning board president. Vice President Lisa Sojka, Treasurer Sharon Gilbert, Secretary Christopher Hardy, Stacey Contakos, Flint Decker, Jean Kislak, and Kristen Smith are all continuing trustees.

Amie Hutchison, executive director of P.A.W.S., said in a news release: “Each new member brings valuable skills and experiences to our board that will help guide P.A.W.S. over the coming years.  This is an exciting time to be on the board. Last year, PAWS extended its service to nine towns and we partnered with local organizations to develop our community programs for youth and seniors. This year, we plan to continue to grow our service area and find more opportunities for outreach.

“We have also made exciting progress in our capital campaign to outfit the former Camden First Aid building to become our future adoption center and expect to complete renovations this year. The space and features of the new facility will enable P.A.W.S. to provide even more exceptional care for every cat and dog that comes through our doors and greatly increase our capacity for service and programs.”

P.A.W.S. recognizes the service of Jean White and MC Ingraham. Both of whom are stepping off the board after years of service.

P.A.W.S. Animal Adoption Center serves the towns of Camden, Rockport, Lincolnville, Belfast, Northport, Searsmont, Liberty, Islesboro and Swanville. The center’s mission is to provide a safe, caring environment for homeless and abandoned dogs and cats until they can be placed with loving families, and to promote humane values in the communities through community outreach and educational programs. For more information about P.A.W.S. visit the center at 146 Camden Street in Rockport or online at www.PawsAdoption.org.

Camden church gives more than $20,000 to charity

CAMDEN — Heavenly Threads Thrift Shop and the Outreach Committee of the First Congregational Church of Camden gave more than $20,000 in charitable donations in 2014. Profits from the shop's sales are given yearly to Knox County charities, according to a news release.

The list of recipients for 2014 include:Help Heat Homes via Penquis, Meals on Wheels, Coastal Transportation, Camden Area Christian Food Pantry, Coastal Opportunities, Penbay YMCA, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Knox County Health Clinic, New Hope for Women, Youthlinks, Connections Program, Five Town Communities that Care, Trekkers, Midcoast Habitat for Humanity, Hospitality House, Area Interfaith Outreach and 63 Washington Street.

Heavenly Threads also sent 15 children to summer camp.

Heavenly Threads Thrift Shop depends solely on donations. Donations are welcome anytime during shop hours: Winter Hours: Tuesday - Saturday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

They are located at 57 Elm St., Camden, ME 04843, 236-3203