Hawk’s Eye

By Karen Sattler
Hodgdon Mill Pond School
    Can you believe Thanksgiving is knocking on our doors?  Take a few minutes this week to think of those people in your life that you are most thankful for, and let them know!
    We would like to congratulate the following students who were selected to participate as members of the All Aroostook Band:  Trey Cox – percussion, Stephany Chaloux – trumpet, Tabetha Ganzel – flute, and Madison York – flute. 
    Speaking of music, we would like to spotlight Kelly Ellis, our band teacher for 15 years. Ellis shares her home with husband, Peter, and their dog, Max. She is the proud mother of five children: Danni, Chelsy, Logan, Sam, and Sydney. Her love of music was ingrained growing up in a very musical family! Her dream vacation (like many of us) would be to head anywhere warm in the middle of winter.  Her proudest moments have been watching her children reach various milestones in the lives.
    When asked to share one unusual thing about herself, she mentioned that she had been honored as Miss Greater Houlton in 1981 … a long time ago! Those were her words, not mine.
    Kelly’s response to the question, “Would you do it all over again the same way, or is there something you would change,” was that there were some things she would change and some she would keep the same. 
    Ellis also passed on some information regarding some upcoming concerts here at Mill Pond School.  Dec. 14 will be the Beginning Band and Chorus concert starting at 6:30 p.m. This concert will feature band and chorus students in grades 4-5 under the direction of Scott Walker and Ellis.
    On Thursday, Dec. 15, it will be the Middle School Band and Chorus concert featuring band a chorus students in grades 6-8. These students are also directed by Walker and Ellis. Both concerts are free to the public, but donations would be greatly appreciated.  Please take a moment out of your busy schedule to encourage these hard working individuals and maybe be filled with some holiday spirit!
News from afterschool
    Joel Oliver, school board member and local farmer, was a special visitor to our Lego robotics group as they prepare for their upcoming competition in Augusta. He was treated to the students’ presentations regarding this year’s theme of “Food Factor.” Rob Goulet and the students want to thank him for coming and to thank all those who are supporting this group in their drive to excel at the state competition. 
    Blessings to all for a safe and wonderful Thanksgiving break!