Congratulations to Andy Card on his appointment as Chief of Staff for President George W. Bush and to his wife, Kathleene, on her appointment as assistant pastor of Trinity United Methodist Church in McLean, VA.

We wish them health, wisdom and success in their new positions

We repeat information occasionally because we feel it’s important enough for folks to be reminded. Simple solutions to seemingly difficult problems can result in a healthier lake.

Septic systems should be checked regularly, especially those of older camps on small parcels of land. It’s important that both tank and leaching field be in good condition. If suspicious odors appear or if flushing is sluggish, it may be time to check it out.

It’s recommended that septic tanks for summer camps be pumped every 5-7 years and those of year-round homes be pumped every 3-4 years. It’s a good idea to keep a written record of when the work was done and what company did it. If things work correctly, bacteria in the tanks will work on the waste. However, septic tank treatments can be found in most hardware stores (and in B.J.’s) and include root-killers, yeast (one-lb. dissolved in water) and Septic Tank Treatment.

We don’t usually recommend companies for new installations on small pieces of land or to replace faulty systems …there are many. However, one company in Gray, Me. bears notice. Septi-Tech has designed systems for solving problems on sites with poor soils, proximity to ledge or water frontage, or lack of space. It works by cleaning wastewater to very high levels before it’s discharged to a leach field. If this technology is used, the State has granted major concessions with respect to leach field size and depth. It’s a maintenance-free system and insures a permanent solution to the home-owner’s septic requirements. A demonstration site visit can be arranged, if you’re interested. Call the company at (207) 657-5752 or e-mail them a Zeropollut@aol.com.

Art Dunlap, CEO of Poland, was impressed with a demonstration and you might be too. However, check with all sources before making a final decision.

The high water played havoc with Ed and Barbara Perreault’s front yard, sending out to "sea" their grandchildren’s Rubbermaid toychest, filled with toys. They think it’s beige in color.

If you happen to spot it, please give them a call at 998-2598. Thanks.

Aerial photos of the lakes are still available. It’s an autumn scene viewed from the southern end of Tripp Lake. Though many members already have them, they’re still in demand for special occasions and for newer members. They come in a variety of sizes and prices, are dry mounted and suitable for framing. For more information, call Barbara Perreault at (978) 462-9242 or (207) 998-2598. You can e-mail her at perreaultb@aol.com.

Red pepper sauce dotted on plates, will help keep the flies away.