FARMINGTON CORNER

A continuing tale of life in the boonies

No. 141

Artful joys and birthday boys

The Sixth Annual Exhibition of Arts and Crafts opened at the Goodwin Library last Saturday with a wine and cheese affair, the like of which this column has been hankering after for years. The cheese in particular was of the very highest order (more details next week) coming as it did from Tuttles' Red Barn, the gourmet's Mecca. En route to Dover, for the pleasant task of cheese selection, librarian Dorinda sadly took Lloyd, the aged and ailing gerbil, to Broadview, the veterinary clinic where furry creatures pass away with dignity, for a small fee.

Anyway, upon Dorinda's return, proving that there is still-life after death, the exhibiting artists surrounded by their works were royally wined and dined at the private social function held to mark the opening of the two-week long show.

The exhibition, which will run until Feb. 25, features many old favorite craftspeople (all with brand new works) and some welcome fresh faces, too. Ed Demers of Spring Street (an old face) has three of his carved and painted birds on display. Fans who recall his loons and chickadees of yesteryear, will realize that Ed is beginning to spread his wings with this year's work consisting of a Downey Woodpecker, a Northern Baltimore Oriole, and a Hooded Merganser in full plumage.

Blanche Magee, a local poet who had a close shave with a haggis recently, has submitted some of her verse and a number of photographs. Jim Jacobs, a Barrington resident and stalwart of Farmington Town Players, (not dead, just sleeping, one hopes) has turned his talent to clay sculptures. One of his works on display, fittingly, features a tower of tragedy and comedy masks.

Betty Demers, in addition to submitting a pair of delightful oil paintings, has two quilts on display, one with a nursery rhyme theme, and the other inspired by ocean creatures.

Other contributors include regulars Polly Blair, Jewell and Roger Gray, and recently featured stained glass artist Darlene Rocheleau, from the wilds of Reservoir Road. A full review of this important collection will appear in later editions of the Courier, like next week. Meanwhile, you are urged to switch off the ball game, stash the Bud back in the fridge, and dart to the art.

Henry Wilson News

Disappointed by the postponement of the Henry Wilson Winter Carnival, Henry Wilson lovers are nonetheless determined to bring Henry Wilson's name to the fore. President Nolan of WOOOF, the organization dedicated to dragging Wilson Out Of Obscurity Forthwith, has decreed that for a short time only, the dwindling supply of WOOOF badges will be made available at the remarkable price of 99 cents.

The timing for this staggering bout of generosity, which continues as long as the Art Show runs, is inspired by the impending birthday of Vice President Henry Wilson. Born of humble stock in Farmington, on Feb. 16, 1812, Henry trained as a cobbler, enjoyed a beer, and epitomized the nobility of working people, even after becoming a Republican.

(Editor's note: There is not a shred of historical evidence to suggest that Wilson enjoyed a beer. We apologize to our readers for this scurrilous conjecture, masquerading as authoritative research.)

These magnificent two-inch diameter tributes to Henry Wilson are available at the Goodwin Library, Main Street, Farmington, and wherever good badges are sold. They are designed with loving care by a skilled local craftsman (who enjoys a beer) each one depicting the kinder and gentler face of Henry looking out from a yellow moon, hanging in a mid blue sky, over a trio of shadowy canine admirers. "WOOOF", they say, in east-to-read black letters. Take advantage of this limited time 99-cent special. Pick up your telephone now, and order a taxi to the Goodwin Library.

Get Well Soon

This column sends its warmest regards to an oft-featured citizen, Kelly the Hatless of Meaderboro. Larry is recovering at home after a short unscheduled stay in Frisbie Memorial Hospital.

Woman's Club News

On the day after Henry Wilson birthday, Feb. 17, Marc Cote will address Farmington Woman's Club on the subject of the Hoby Foundation. This is a very fine organization that sends young people somewhere, and also there will be a Silent Auction, to raise money to boost local funds.

Historical Society News

Due to recent inclement weather, the lecture scheduled for delivery by Mr. Don Black, the Extension Service forester, to Farmington and New Durham Historical Society, has been postponed until the fall. President Nolan has not so far been contacted by the society to give his fascinating talk called Henry Wilson and the Art of Reincarnation, Complete with the Walking Proof - Mr. "Royce Hodgdon."

Perhaps a pithier title is all that is needed.

Goodwin Library News

With the last gerbil dead, WOOOF badges being given away for 99 cents, and an Art Show raging, what else, might you ask, could possibly be going on? Well, last Monday, the Trustees of the Library elected a new president. No stranger to presidential roles is Mr. James Thayer, who once ran a bank attached to and (some say) overshadowing this very Goodwin Library. Assuming the vice presidency is Gene Nute, with JoAnn Doke taking on the drudge of secretary.

February 13, 1989

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