C.J. and Jodi King and family, who operate the Maple Moose in Easton, have been named the Maine Maple Syrup Producer of the Year by the Maine Maple Producers Association.
The award was presented on Jan. 15 at the association’s annual meeting in Augusta.
The Kings’ operation started in 2007, with a small bucket operation and a homemade evaporator, as most maple producers do. The business grew through the years, adding a modern sugar house. They have upgraded their evaporator twice and added on to the sugar house multiple times.
In presenting the award, Maine Maple Producers Association representatives said, “Their dedication to the craft is evident with the modern clean sugar house and meticulous care for their sugar woods and tubing systems. Homemade innovations in the pump houses and in the sugar house, have allowed this self-employed family to prosper in the maple world.
“In a region that is known for tillage agriculture and lower tourism, C.J., Jodi and their family have created a destination for Maine Maple Syrup. Hosting multiple school tours each year, Maine Maple Sunday/Weekend, and other maple events at the sugar house they have introduced maple into a region that is mostly known for potatoes. During the off season they can be found at many northern Maine craft fairs and community events with their custom trailer, selling and promoting maple.
Abigail Siddiqui (Courtesy of Easton Elementary School)
“Teaching at maple trade shows, they have educated many maple producers in the art of maple cotton candy and maple lollipops that have enabled other producers to prosper. Please take the time to congratulate the entire King Family for being recognized as Maine Maple Syrup Producer of the Year.”
Students of the Quarter
Easton Elementary School recently congratulated its Students of the Quarter.
Abigail Siddiqui (sixth grade) was chosen Student of the Quarter for several reasons. She completes her work on time and it is done very well. She is nice to everyone and shows respect to teachers and peers alike. Abby takes her work seriously, and her teachers and principal can see great things in her future.
Her parents are Yoosuf and Penney Siddiqui.
Reese Hull (Courtesy of Easton Elementary School)
Reese Hull (first grade) was chosen Student of the Quarter for several reasons. She is a hard worker and always challenging herself to do her very best. She is always on her best behavior and is a great role model for other students.
Reeses’ folks are Rickie and Ashley Hull.
Star show and moonlight hike
The Francis Malcolm Science Center in Easton invites the public to a planetarium star show, “Seasonal Constellation,” 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 8.
A moonlight snowshoe hike will follow at 7:30 p.m. (weather permitting).
Reservations are required by calling 207-488-5451. The cost is $5 per person, per event — $10 for both events. Snow shoes are available to rent at $2 per pair.
Hillary Hallett is the correspondent for Easton. She can be reached by sending an e-mail to: hillary_jt@myfairpoint.net or calling 207-551-7737.
