GARDEN WORKS: Bored in Wintertime? Read on for the remedy

Winter is upon us!

Emily CatesGARDEN WORKS

by Emily Cates

For a while there, I’d thought Old Man Winter had forgotten us. No such luck! Now that we’re basking in the ice and snow, at least we can be comforted by the thought that the Solstice is behind us and the days will now start to get longer. Would it be a good time to take a respite from garden activities? Perhaps. But what if we’re feeling restless and would rather enjoy the satisfaction from getting things done? Well, then, read on for a few seasonally-appropriate suggestions; this time we’ll focus on a variety of activities, including pruning and tool maintenance.

First of all, though, let’s not forget to mark any trees or shrubs that might get smooshed by the snow plow. Are there specimens that need winter protection? Labels are often lost in the wind and snow, so making a map of ‘what’s there and where’ is always a good idea.

Black-knot fungus

Do you have European plum trees? Now is a fine time to check them for the fungal disease black knot. I have a Stanley plum that gets this every now and then. Trees with this problem will greatly appreciate our attention to this matter. Can we blame them? Black knot literally looks like dried dog poop on a branch, and will eventually spread to other branches if ignored. I’ve found it easier to spot against a backdrop of snowy ground. Prune off and burn or dispose of infected branches, and be sure to disinfect the pruners afterwards.

Speaking of pruning, we can remove dead, diseased, or damaged branches on any trees or shrubs any time of the year. What better time than now?

And when we’re done with our tools, why not clean, oil, and sharpen them so they’ll be in good working order? Uh-oh, is the tool shed a mess? Well, there’s another job for the ‘To Do List’! See how one project can lead to another? Now, that’s an antidote for boredom!

TRAINING YOUR DOG: Obedience – the foundation of all we do with our dogs

TRAINING YOUR DOG

by Carolyn Fuhrer

AKC defines its obedience program as trials set up to demonstrate the dog’s ability to follow specified routines in the obedience ring to emphasize the usefulness of the dog as a companion to humans; and it is essential that the dog demonstrate willingness and enjoyment while it is working, and that handling be smooth and natural without harsh commands.

In other words – the dog and handler enjoy working together. If you have ever seen beautiful heeling, you understand the wonderful flow of energy between the dog and handler. If you have ever seen bright, crisp signals and recalls, then you understand the focus and understanding between the team that comes from the heart.

Obedience is the foundation that enables our dogs to do all the wonderful things they do with us and for us. Obedience enables our dogs to be search and rescue dogs, herding dogs, therapy dogs, assistance dogs, agility dogs, freestyle dogs, and on and on.

Without obedience as a foundation, dogs could not participate in these activities. They need to be able to ignore distractions, make good choices, work under pressure, follow directions and have focus and attention. This is what obedience teaches and this is not a bad thing. All pet dogs could use these skills – it could even save their lives at some point.

There seems to be some feeling that commands are bad. Actually, in reality we give our dogs commands all the time, such as “wait” when we open the door to let them out; “sit and wait” when we go to put their food bowls down; “come” when we need them to join us. Whether you want to call them cues, requests or signals, is a question of semantics. We still expect some compliance and good manners when we ask something of our pets. This is not bad. Correction seems to be another difficult term – correction is simply a way of showing how something should be done. It does not imply pain or harshness mentally or physically. To anyone who has a poor opinion of obedience my guess is that they have never attended a good obedience class.

In a good class there is fun, excitement, laughter, challenges and lots and lots of rewards in many shapes and forms. Dogs are never – and I repeat – never corrected in any way for something they do not understand. This would be self-defeating for all involved. How could we create a willing, joyful, trustful partner if this was a method we employed? Are there poor obedience teachers out there? I’m sure there are, just as there are bad doctors and poor attorneys.

Positive training is not an entity in and of itself, but simply a way to teach obedience. Positive training and obedience training should not be an antithesis. Positive methods are employed to teach dogs obedience and life skills, and most successful obedience instructors use positive methods. There are also people out there claiming to use only positive methods and are not very good at it because they do not understand how to teach.

Even improper use of “clicker training” can cause terrible mental stress to a dog that is overwhelmed by the improper criteria.

So, let’s hope 2018 will be a year to bring more mutual respect to all those in the dog world and for how we choose to spend quality time with our dogs. We all basically share the same goals to enjoy living with our dogs and enjoy special activities with them.

A dog with an obedience foundation is a joy to live with and actually gets a lot more freedom than an uncontrolled dog. It is irresponsible to allow an uncontrolled dog total freedom. All dogs need an obedience foundation.

I am very proud of all of my students and the relationship they have developed and built upon through obedience. Not sure? Find a good obedience class to watch and talk with the students and learn how much it could do for you and your dog.

Carolyn Fuhrer has earned over 100 AKC titles with her Golden Retrievers, including 2 Champion Tracker titles. Carolyn is the owner of North Star Dog Training School in Somerville, Maine. She has been teaching people to understand their dogs for over 25 years. You can contact her with questions, suggestions and ideas for her column by e-mailing carolyn@dogsatnorthstar.com.

Obituaries, Week of January 11, 2018

LLOYD E. BURT

UNITY ­– Lloyd (Buddy) Earl Burt, 85, passed away on Wednesday, December 13, 2017, at the Maine Veterans Home, in Bangor. Buddy was born on April 29, 1932, in Burnham, where he resided most of his life.

He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War, stationed in Germany.

Buddy worked for several companies throughout his life, including the Hartland Tannery and Vic Firth, in Newport. Lloyd was a longtime member of the Church of Christ, in Newport.

Buddy was a devoted husband, father and grandfather. He enjoyed hunting and walking to Patterson’s store every morning for the newspaper.

Lloyd was happiest when reading the newspaper and watching NASCAR, the Boston Red Sox, New England Patriots and Boston Celtics games.

He was predeceased by his parents Earl and Delia (Lester) Burt; sister Etta (Burt) Kelleher and brother Raymond Burt.

Lloyd is survived by his wife Elaine (Braley) Burt; sister Dorothy Vaughan; sons, Daniel Burt and wife Coreen and Randy Burt; daughter Kathy Burt and her fiance Lucas Murdock; 10 grandchildren: Cory and his fiance Becca Libby, Kyle, Jared, Zachary, Julia, Emma, Kendra and Jacqueline Burt, Joshua Dravo and Grace Cunningham; and many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

An online guestbook may be signed at www.lawrybrothers.com.

RICHARD L. HODGES

PALMETTO, FLORIDA – Richard L. Hodges, 91, died at his home in Palmetto, Florida, on Saturday, December 23, 2017. He was born on April 5, 1926, in Winslow, the son of Harvey and Mina Hodges.

He graduated from Winslow High School and was a veteran of the United States Navy.

He married the former Marie Elizabeth Thompson, of Boston, Massachusetts, in 1946. They settled in Winslow before moving to Unity, where he owned and operated an Agway store. He later started hgis own trucking business, R. L. Hodges, Inc., which continues to operate today. In addition, they raised three children, and celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary prior to Marie’s death in 1997.

Richard is survived by his wife of 19 years, Patricia Hodges; three children, Marilyn H. Casciari, of Greenwich, Connecticut, Harvey W. Hodges II, and spouse Dyer Cook, of Orlando, Florida, and Richard A. Hodges and spouse Frances Hodges, of Unity; four grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.

CARMEL FREDETTE

WINSLOW ­– Carmel Aa. Fredette, 72, of Winslow, passed away Thursday, December 28, 2017. She was born in Killaloe, County Claire, Ireland, on July 18, 1945

At 10 months old, she and her mother traveled by boat to Ellis Island to join her World War II Soldier father. Her name was added to the wall at Ellis Island along with her mother’s.

Carmel met her true love, Randall, at the Sydney Fair in 1959. She was the glue that held the family together. Her proudest moments were spent supporting all her grandchildren in their activities and sports, traveling anywhere to watch them. Even when she was at the hospital, she would inform the staff that she had to be out a certain time to attend these events. She was well known for being the Winslow wrestling assistant coach from the sidelines.

A familiar figure in the Winslow community, Carmel was employed by the school district for 44 years as a bus driver. During her time of driving she touched many lives and made a positive impact on their futures.

She was predeceased by a daughter, Sara Rose; and her parents, Alfred and Kathleen Philbrick.

She is survived by her husband, Randall E. Fredette Sr.; and six children, Randall Emile Fredette Jr., Kevin Fredette and wife Carol, Eileen Richards and husband Bruce, Todd Fredette and wife Lori, Tara Fredette and fiancé Mike Fredericks, Donald Demers and wife Marsha; sister, Eva Whitney; a great-aunt, Pearl McMahon; 14 grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Please visit www.veilleuxfuneralhome.com to view a video collage of Carmel’s life and to share condolences, memories and tributes with her family.

Memorial donations may be made to Arthritis Foundation National Office, 1355 Peachtree St. NE, Suite 600, Atlanta GA 30309

ALTHEA L. HENDERSON

VASSALBORO ­– Althea Louise Henderson, 95, of Vassalboro died on Friday, December 29, 2017. Althea was born in Sherman Mills on January 15, 1922.

Althea worked for A.M.H. I. for 27 years as an occupational therapist, and continued to work after retirement as an activities coordinator at nursing homes.

Althea had a way of making everyone she met feel special. She would light up a room with her infectious smile and contagious personality.

She wrote poems and songs that continue to touch the hearts of many, and it seemed at times her talent was endless. Althea made countless quilts, enjoyed painting, and every grandchild could count on mittens for Christmas. She loved to entertain in every sense of the work. Whether she was baking blueberry cake and apple pies, or singing, she made it known her heartbeat was her family. Her love of family was preceded only by her love for God. From teaching Sunday school, community outreach, and her mission trips to Taiwan, her life was a beautiful example of the heart of a servant.

She was predeceased by her husband of 43 years, Lyle Henderson; and grandchildren Peter, Timothy, Matthew, and Rebekah.

Althea is survived by her eight children, Walter and wife Terry Henderson, Bonnie and husband Peter Stetson, Lorna and husband Sherwood Bumps, William and wife Teresa Henderson, Dana and wife Robbie Henderson, Dora and husband Peter Hickey, Wade and wife Michele Henderson, Joyce and husband Dick Roach; 26 grandchildren; 43 great-grandchildren; and 13 great-great-grandchildren; siblings, Beryl, Joyce, Helen, and George.

Condolences, memories, photos and videos may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the website at www.khrfuneralhomes.com.

JEANNETTE M. VIGUE

WATERVILLE – Jeannette M. Vigue, 92, died as a result of injuries suffered in an automobile accident on Saturday, December 30, 2017. She was born in Waterville on February 26, 1925, the daughter of Joseph and Leona Lagasse. On June 19, 1941, she married Valaire Vigue, and together they raised 11 children.

She was an amazing woman who always had a radiant smile. Jeannette loved going out to eat, going to casinos and playing bingo. On Friday and Saturday nights you would find her going out to listen and dance to country music with her sister Margaret and several friends.

Jeannette was predeceased by her parents, her husband Valaire, son Fredrick, daughters Lorraine and Maryann; great-grandson Dominic, several brothers and sisters.

She is survived by sons Raymond Vigue and wife Linda, of Winslow, Robert Vigue, of Waterville, Norman Vigue, of Winslow, Armand Vigue and wife June, of Oakland, David Vigue and partner Debbie, of Benton; daughters Annette Landry, of Winslow, and Nancy Vigue and Rosemarie Liberty, both of Oakland (with whom Jeannette resided); several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren; sister Margaret Woodbury; and several nieces and nephews.

WILMA A. STEWART

UNITY ­– Wilma Alice (Clark) Stewart, 88, of Unity, passed away on Friday, December 22, 2017, at the Lakewood Continuing Care Center, in Waterville. Wilma was born in Stratton on June 15, 1929, a twin daughter of Norris and Julia (York) Clark.

She attended the Stratton area schools. In 1946, she married Paul Stewart, of Thorndike, and started their life together in Stratton.

After beginning a family together, they moved to East Thorndike where Wilma started a long time career as a waitress at Max’s Restaurant as well as the Homestead Restaurant, both in Unity. She was a member of the Thorndike Fireman’s Auxiliary, the Rebekah’s Lodge of Monroe, the Pythian Sisters of Stratton, the Red Hat Society, the Harvest Moon Grange #57, and the Benjamin Berry Unit #50, American Legion Auxiliary.

Wilma was well known in her community for her vivacious personality and infectious smile. Her personality would light up anybody’s mood. She could often be found volunteering for her community and making people feel special and loved. She enjoyed life to the fullest and loved to “cut a rug” at family events and local dance halls. She was always laughing and smiling and helping others do the same.

She was predeceased by her husband, Paul F. Stewart Sr., in 1988; father, Norris Clark, of Bingham; mother, Julia Goodwin, of Waterville; twin sister, Hilma Caldwell, of Waterville; and brother, Norris Clark, of Skowhegan.

She is survived by her children, son David Stewart and wife Mary, of Albion, daughter Linda Parker and husband Jerry, of Troy, and son Paul Stewart Jr. and wife Laura, of Unity; her grandchildren, Heidi Wilson and husband Steve, Michael Stewart and fiancée Nikki Zucco, Shaun Stewart and wife Suzette, Kurt Parker and wife Kerry, Randal Parker and wife Holly, Samantha Gogan, Nicolas Stewart and fiancée Hannah Russell, and Jessica Stewart; 11 great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren; sister, Karlene Bacheldar; brother-in-law, Floyd Oakes and wife Gerda; and sister-in-law, Beverly Rollins and husband Gary; and many nieces and nephews.

There will be a Celebration of Life at the American Legion Hall in Unity, followed by graveside services at the Center Cemetery in East Thorndike, May 12, 2018.

An online guestbook may be signed and memories shared at www.lawrybrothers.com.

Memorial donations may be made to The American Legion Auxiliary Unity #50, Unity Me. Checks can be made out to ALA #50 and sent to Sharon Spaulding, Treasurer, 140 Detroit Road, Troy ME 04987.

MARY CREAMER

WHITEFIELD ­– Mary Creamer, 103, passed away on Thursday December 28, 2017, following a brief illness. Born on March 26, 1914, in Augusta, she was the daughter of Jason and Myrtie (Wright) Edgerly.

Mary grew up on a small farm in Whitefield, with two brothers, where she learned that hard work is the principle of living well. In 1933, Mary married James Creamer and they made their home in Kings Mills.

Mary was a homemaker and enjoyed working outside caring for her yard and gardens. Mary always had enough energy to do what she thought needed to be done, in the past ten years, she was caught shoveling snow and pulling pesky bamboo stalks that were invading her yard.

Mary was proud of her family and always looked forward to visits with them as well as visits with friends. She enjoyed helping people out by caring for children of neighbors and other families over the years. The Whitefield Historical Society honored Mary with the Boston Post Cane in 2010 at the age of 95,

Besides her parents, Masry was predeceased by her husband, James; brothers, Loring and Jason Edgerly; and son-in-law, Charles Grady.

She is survived by her daughter, Betty Grady, of Whitefield; grandchildren, Darryl Grady and wife Jeanne, of Whitefield, Steve Grady and wife Jennifer, of Whitefield, and Valerie Pelletier and husband David, of Jefferson; seven great-grandchildren; one great-great-granddaughter; sisters-in-law, Geraldine Edgerly, of Woolwich and Saramae Edgerly, of Whitefield; as well as many nieces and nephews.

Condolences, and messages for her family, may be expressed by visiting www.StrongHancock.com.

There will be a graveside service at the Bristol Mills Cemetery on Saturday, May 19, at 2 p.m.

Memorial donations may be made to Kings Mills Fire Department Association, P.O. Box 361, Coopers Mills ME 04341.

BETTY T. GLIDDEN

PALERMO ­– Betty T. Glidden, 83, of Palermo, passed away on Saturday, December 30, 2017, at Gray Birch Nursing Home, in Augusta. Betty was born in Palermo on November 25, 1934, the daughter of John and Harriet Tibbetts.

She attended high school in Bingham and then went on to the Maine State Teachers College in Farmington, now known as University of Maine-Farmington. She married Howard E. Glidden, of Vassalboro, in 1957 and together they had four children.

Betty lived most of her life in Palermo and raised her family there. She was involved in 4H and was a long time member of the Grange and the Sheepscot Pond Fish and Game Association. Betty was best known as a teacher and principal at the Palermo Consolidated School. She touched the lives of many during her time as a teacher and taught in Palermo for over 30 years, even teaching all four of her children. She was an overseer of the poor and town health officer for a short time.

Along with her husband, Howard, she enjoyed gardening, working in her greenhouse, and selling vegetables to local residents and summer visitors on Sheepscot Pond. After her retirement from teaching, Betty and Howard traveled to Hawaii, Alaska, the Panama Canal, Costa Rica, England, Scotland, and Ireland. She enjoyed spending Tuesday afternoons with friends playing cards. Most of all, she loved being a grandmother and great-grammie.

Betty was predeceased by her husband Howard; her parents John and Harriet; and her sisters Frances T. Lenfest, Carolyn T. Ballantyne, and Sylvia Tibbetts.

Betty is survived by her son Rodny Glidden and wife Jane, of Palermo; her daughter Rebecca Glidden and her life partner Tom LaFreniere, of Freedom; her daughter Patricia Glidden, of China, her daughter Susan Leary and husband Frank, of Palermo; grandchildren, Zachary Glidden and wife Kathryn, of Enfield, Aaron Glidden and girlfriend Angela Connors, of Palermo, Samuel Glidden and wife Elena, of Raymond, Elizabeth Glidden, Paige Leary, Kelby Leary, all of Palermo, Braden Maillet and Cameron Maillet, of China, Ben Lafreniere and wife Brittany, of Sidney; great-grandchildren, Kaylene, Adalyn and Nash Glidden, of Palermo, Maxwell and James Glidden, of Raymond, Camille Glidden, of Enfield, and Mallary and Ben Hanke, of Palermo; her sisters Elsie T. Adams, of Palermo, Beryl T. Glidden, of Vassalboro, Marcia T. Taber, of New York; brother-in-law Roger Glidden, of Palermo; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life is planned for Saturday, January 13, at the Palermo Consolidated School at 1 p.m.

Memories and condolences may be shared at www.ripostafh.com.

Memorial donations may be made to the Betty Glidden Scholarship Fund, c/o the Palermo Consolidated School, 501 ME-3, Palermo ME 04354,

HARLAND E. YOUNG

CHINA – Harland E. Young passed away at his home on Saturday, December 30, 2017, following a long illness with kidney disease.

Harland graduated from Erskine Academy in 1956.

He was employed by Central Maine Railroad and retired in 1987. He was a 50-year member of the Masonic Central Lodge #45, in China.\

Harland and his wife of 56 years spent many years as “seasonal” at Sherwood Forest Campgrounds, in New Harbor. Many friends gathered and many friendships were formed around a “shared” campfire every year.

Earlier years were spent snowmobiling, hunting, and ice fishing with family and many friends. He had many stories to share on his many ice fishing trips to Chamberlain Lake.

He was predeceased by his wife Norma Jean (Northrup) Young; his father, Stanley T. Young; and his mother, Florence M. Young.

Harland is survived by his son, Alan D. Young, of China; his two daughters, Angela J. Young, of Augusta, and Ann M. Young, of South China; his grandson, Devin M. Young, of Wisconsin; two great-grandchildren, Brayden and Aaliyah, of Augusta; his sister, Brenda Allen and husband Norman, of Augusta; and his niece, Lisa Naoum, of Augusta.

An online guestbook may be signed and memories shared at www.lawrybrothers.com.

Memorial donations may be made to the China Volunteer Fire Department.

TAMMY S. SHAW

UNITY – Tammy S. Shaw, 49, passed away Sunday, December 31, 2017, at her home in Unity. She was born January 14, 1968, in Plattsburgh, New York, the daughter of Gary and Sharon (Jones) Leeman.

She attended Palermo Consolidated School and Mt. View High School, in Thorndike, graduating in 1986. On September 8, 2000, she married Scott Shaw in Unity.

Tammy was employed by New Dimensions Credit Union, in Waterville, and Down East Credit Union, in Unity, as a loan officer. She was a notary and enjoyed snowmobiling, motorcycling, and laying in the sun.

Tammy is survived by her husband of 17 years, Scott Shaw, of Unity; two sons, Jacob Wilson and wife Jessica, of Benton, Kodi Scott Shaw, of Unity; daughter, Brooke Lynn Shaw, of Unity; parents, Gary and Sharon Leeman, of Palermo; parents-in-law, Dale and Sharon Shaw, of Unity; granddaughter, Haylei Wilson, of Benton; grandson, Hank Wilson, of Benton; four sisters, Jerry Rhoades and husband Rumple, of China, Laura Leeman, of Belfast, Terryanne Leeman, of Waterville, Amanda Worth and husband Kevin, of Palermo; brother, Guy Leeman and girlfriend Michaela, of Palermo; cousins (aka “big sisters”) Melanie Waterman, of Burnham and Valarie Tweedie, of Thorndike, many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Arrangements under the direction and care of Dan & Scott’s Cremation & Funeral Service, 445 Waterville Road, Skowhegan ME 04976.

Memorial donations may be made to Brooke & Kodi College Fund, Down East Credit Union, PO Box 760, Unity ME 04988.

GERMAINE T. DAIGNEAULT

WINSLOW – Germaine Theresa (LaCroix) Daigneault passed away on Monday, January 1, 2018, following a brave struggle with failing health. Born June 29, 1935, to Juliette and Denis LaCroix, in Waterville, Germaine was the oldest of three daughters, together, they spent their time singing around the piano and visiting downtown Waterville. A family of French-Canadian heritage, they grew up speaking French and regularly attending Mass. Her deep-rooted Catholic faith encompassed every aspect of her life.

After graduating from Winslow High School in 1953, Germaine met and married Frederick Daigneault, on July 11, 1959. The couple moved to Winslow soon after to raise their family of ten. While some would consider this overwhelming, a large family was her dream fulfilled. Later, she was overjoyed withy the addition of each grandchild. She especially treasured family time, hosting weekly Sunday dinners and celebrating the holidays.

Germaine will be remembered by entire family for her generosity and compassion.

Germaine was predeceased by her parents, Juliette and Denis LaCroix; and her sister, Lorette LaCroix.

She is survived by her husband, Frederick Daigneault; her sister, Gertrude Huard and her husband Roland; her 10 children and their spouses; her 33 grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.

IRVING E. WRIGHT

OAKLAND – Irving E. Wright, 91, passed away on Wednesday, January 3, 2018, at his home in Oakland following a long illness. He was born January 24, 1926, the son of Warren “Gus” Wright and Lillian Wheeler Wright.

He attended Boylston High School in Boylston, Massachusetts.

He married Joyce Bickford, in Westboro, Massachusetts, in 1953. Irving loved and dedicated his life to his two sons Bruce and Barry; his granddaughter; and his three great-grandsons.

Irving lived a life of hard work, starting as a boy on the family farm and making a living as a carpenter and owner of his own business. Irving and Joyce lived in North Grafton, Massachusetts for 15 years before moving to Augusta in 1969.

He was a Mason and Shriner in both states and worked tirelessly for that cause. He loved their cottage on Great Pond, in Belgrade Lakes, and his winter home in Florida. Irving was a magnet to kids as he loved them all and they loved him. His love for cribbage was unbelievable as he would play for hours at a time.

He was predeceased by his son, Bruce Wright; his parents, Gus and Lillian; and six brothers.

Irving is survived by Joyce, his wife of 65 years; his son, Barry Wright and his partner Sherry Stevens, of Livermore Falls; one granddaughter, Jessica Mullen and husband Brian; and three great-grandsons.

Memorial donations may be made to the Humane Society Waterville Area, 100 Webb Road, Waterville ME 04901 or UNA Home Health Hospice, 50 Foden Road, South Portland ME 04106.

OTHERS DEPARTED

MICHAEL T. ATWATER SR., 61, of Gardiner, passed away on Sunday, November 19, 2017, at Glenridge Nursing Home. Locally, he is survived by a grandson Brady Atwater, of Windsor.

WANDA L. LARRACEY, 51, of Canaan passed away on Monday, December 11, 2017, at her home. Locally, she is survived by a daughter, Nicole Larracey and companion Brett Proctor, of Oakland; and sister Lulu Trial and husband Peter, of Vassalboro.

THOMAS W. O’CONNOR, 54, of Augusta, passed away on Tuesday, December 12, 2017, following a courageous battle with cancer. Locally, he is survived by a brother, Stephen J. O’Connor and wife Rachel, of Vassalboro, and a nephew, Robert J. O’Connor, of Vassalboro.

GERALDINE M. FONTAINE, 93, of Waterville, passed away on Wednesday, December 13, 2017. Locally, she is survived by a daughter, Emelie Ferland and husband Curt, of Vassalboro; and sister Marilyn Michaud and husband Roland, of Waterville.

EVERETT F. HIGGINS, 77, of Augusta, passed away on Saturday, December 23, 2017, at Maine Veterans Home, in Augusta. Locally, he is survived by a sister, Christine Jerolman, of Vassalboro; nieces Terri Blair, of Whitefield and Tina Breton, of Vassalboro; and nephew William Baker, of Belgrade.

NATHANIEL D. SULIM, 33, of Rome, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, December 25, 2017, in Waterville. Locally, he is survived by sisters, Adriana Killam and husband Paul, of Albion, and Jessica Knight and husband Denny, of Oakland.

FORMER RESIDENTS

MARK L. RAYMOND, 47, of Old Orchard Beach, son of Ronald and Bertha Raymond, of Winslow, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, December 13, 2017, in Old Orchard Beach. He was born on July 27,1970, in Machias.

Mark graduated from Winslow High School in 1988. He had lived and worked in Old Orchard Beach for many years. Locally, he is survived by his parents Ronald and Bertha Raymond, of Winslow; his brother Ronald Raymond Jr., his sister Beth Ferry and her husband John, and sisters Rose, Wendy, and Desiree Raymond, all of Winslow; brother Jonn and his wife Megan, of Waterville; brother Steven Raymond, of Augusta.b

Senior College forum to hear about Real or Fake News

The University of Maine at Augusta College of Arts and Sciences and the University of Maine at Augusta Senior College has announced the next Forum on the Future entitled News, Real or Fake? The program will be at Jewett Hall on the university campus on Sunday, January 28, from 2 – 4 p.m. A snow date is scheduled for February 4. There will be a panel presentation with a refreshment break, followed by a question and answer period. Forums are the presentation of the variety of ideas on a subject, and are not intended for debate.

Jessica Lowell

The January forum will be introduced and moderated by Marilyn Canavan, of Waterville, a former state legislator and a retired Director of the State Ethics Committee.

Today, we are hearing repeated accusations of news items being real or fake, and many are confused about how these terms are used and when they are accurate.

Mal Leary

Also participating will be Mal Leary, political correspondent for Maine Public, Bill Nemitz, columnist for Maine Today, and Jessica Lowell, journalist with the Kennebec Journal.

Leary is the winner of many awards, he reports regularly on state government and politics. He is a native Mainer, and lifelong journalist.

Bill Nemitz

Nemitz is an experienced wartime correspondent, having followed our troops three times to Iraq, and twice to Afghanistan. In fact, in 2004, he was cited a Maine Journalist of the Year by the Maine Press Association.

Lowell has won awards for investigatory and explanatory journalism.

Letters to the Editor, Week of January 11, 2018

The China Bicentennial

To the editor:

Let’s start with the year [we had] without a summer, 1816. Imagine a town that bases its whole existence on farming or selling goods to the farmer. Without summer it’s impossible to raise food and grain for your family and farm animals. Families came together and survived.

In the summer of 1817 word was passed around that Maine would become the 23rd state with the Missouri Compromise. A non-slave state with towns incorporated by the Massachusetts Legislators. A delegation from the north end of Harlem traveled to Boston to get incorporated as China.

On February 5, 1818, an agreement was made but when ratified by the town in June the southern portion did not agree with their northern neighbors. They remained the town of Harlem for another four years. Was it because of a strong religious difference (Baptist in the north, Quaker in the south) or a strong community bonded by a bad year for planting in 1816?

Our bicentennial this year will look at what life was like in 1818. Living with wood heat, no electricity, canning, drying meats and fruits, making your clothes and making soap to hand wash them. Taking care of your neighbors just as you care for your livestock. It was a time of survival, but it also produced generations who lived and prospered in China.

For them, we must celebrate 200 years as the Town of China. Please join me.

Neil Farrington
China bicentennial coordinator

China Police Log for November/December 2017

China Police Log

(provided by Detective Sergeant Tracey Frost of the Oakland Police Department)

NOVEMBER 2017

November 2: 2 – 5 p.m., checking camp roads and side roads on the east side of China Lake.
November 4: 9:30 a.m. – 2.30 p.m., checking camp roads and side roads on the west side of China Lake.
November 5: 9:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., checking the remainder of roads in town
November 9:

6 p.m., traffic stop Lakeview Drive, warning issued for speed.
6:35 p.m., traffic stop Lakeview Dr., warning issued for speed.
7 p.m., business check.
7:20 p.m., assist Kennebec Sheriff’s Office with a business alarm on Jones Road.
7:30 p.m., business check.
7:50 p.m., car – deer accident on Waterville Road.
8:15 p.m., car – deer accident on Waterville Road.
8:30 p.m., transport home driver whose car was damaged.
8:55 p.m., assist motorist on Rte. 3

November 10:

10:55 a.m., assist motorist on Neck Rd.
11:19 a.m., property check at Thurston Park.
11:35 a.m., debris in roadway on Parmenter Hill Road.
11:49 a.m., assist China Fire Dept.
12:15 p.m., assist other agency on Rte. 3.

November 18:

1:23 p.m., traffic stop on Windsor Road. Summons for no insurance.
1:50 p.m., business check.
2:15 p.m., business check.
2:30 p.m., business check.
2:45 p.m., business check.
3 p.m., radar detail on Rte. 3.
3:30 p.m., residence check.

November 25:

11:10 .m., debris in roadway on Lakeview Dr.
11:30 a.m., debris in roadway on Lakeview Drive.
12:10 p.m., assist motorist on Vassalboro Road.
12:27 p.m., traffic stop on Windsor Road, warnning for speed.
12:42 p.m., traffic stop on Windsor Road, warning for speed.
12:51 p.m., traffic stop at Hannaford parking lot, summons for no insurance, warning for inspection.
1:15 p.m., property check at South China boat landing.
1:40 p.m., business check on Lakeview Drive.
2:02 p.m., traffic stop on Waterville Road, warning for inspection sticker.

DECEMBER 2017

December 1:

11:15 a.m., traffic stop on Windsor Road, warning for speed.
11:25 a.m., assist other agency on traffic stop on Windsor Road.
12:05 p.m., traffic stop onLakeview Dr., warning for speed.
12:23 p.m., business alarm, Causeway Drive building checked.
12:46 p.m., traffic stop on Rte. 3, summons for no insurance.
1:15 p.m., traffic stop PVRR, warning for no inspection, summons for no license.
1:20 p.m., intoxicated subject at Circle K, transported to Winslow.
1:35 p.m., property check on Causeway Drive.
1:55 p.m., business check on Vassalboro Dr.

December 9:

5 p.m., business check on Rte. 3.
5:17 p.m., business check on Rte. 3.
5:55 p.m., residence check on Village Road.
6:35 p.m., assist motorist on Vassalboro Road.
7:10 p.m., traffic stop, ATV on snowmobile trail, referred to game wardens.
7:30 p.m., property check at South China boat landing.

December 12:

1 a.m., report of criminal mischief on Neck Road, investigated.
10:30 a.m., report of trespass by motor vehicle on Neck Road, investigated.

December 16: funeral detail.

December 22:

6:37, traffic stop on Rte. 3, inspection violation, warning issued.
6:55 a.m., traffic stop on Rte. 3, inspection violation, warning issued.
7:10 a.m., radar detail at Erskine Academy school zone.
10 a.m., delivered holiday assistance package on Hanson Road.
10:20 a.m., delivered holiday assistance package on 50 Fire Road.
10:40 a.m., delivered holiday assistance package on Deer Hill Road.
11:30 a.m., delivered holiday assistance package on Demerchant Road.
12:30 p.m., delivered holiday assistance package on Tobey Drive.
12:45 p.m., delivered holiday assistance package on Parmenter Hill Road.
1:10 p.m., delivered holiday assistance package on Shuman Road.
2:15 p.m., delivered holiday assistance package on Albion Road.

December 26:

9:15 a.m., traffic stop on Alder Park Road, warning for speed.
11:20 a.m., business check on Lakeview Drive.
11:55 a.m., business check on Windsor Road.
12:20 p.m., business check on Windsor Road.
1 p.m., radar detail on Rte. 3.
1:45 p.m., business check on Vassalboro Road.
2 p.m., assist motorist out of gas on Lakeview Drive.

December 30:

11:10 a.m., traffic stop on Lakeview Drive, warning for speed.
11:38 a.m., business check on Lakeview Drive.
1210 p.m., business check on Windsor Road.
12:30 p.m., business check on Vassalboro Road.
1:40 p.m., business check on Vassalboro Road.
2:20 p.m., residence check on Neck Road.
3 p.m., residence check on Old Waterville Road.

Tucker Leonard earns Eagle Scout rank

Eagle Scout Tucker Leonard stands with the completed project behind the Palermo Grammar School.
Photo courtesy of Ron Emery

On October 8, 2017, Tucker Leonard completed his Eagle Project at the Palermo Grammar School. As a member of China Boy Scout Troop #479, Tucker’s project was to select a space on the trails in back of the school to clear an area for an outdoor class. He selected the area after meeting a teacher from the school, marked the trees to cut. Trees were cut and the firewood was carried out to donate while the brush was dragged into the woods. The location of the tables were selected and raked. The many pieces of the tables were carried into the selected locations across the rough trail. The five tables were then built and placed on pads. Thanks to all the Scouts, leaders and parents that came early in the morning to work in a light rain under his leadership. The school, students, town residents and parents should be very pleased with the results, according to Ron Emery, advancement chairman for Troop #479.

Fairfield police Care for Kids program bigger and better

An unidentified boy receives Christmas gifts from Fairfield Police Department patrolman Blake Wilder.
Photos by Tawni Lively, Central Maine Photography staff

by Mark Huard

The Cops Care for Kids program was initially started and funded by Kingston Paul, who was the former Detective Captain at the Fairfield Police Department. The program started with an idea that the police wanted to build a great relationship with our community and the children of our community. They started out by delivering just one stuffed animal to approximately 50 children with a tag attached with all the officer’s names on them. Many years later, the program has grown to delivering three small gifts and a stuffed animal to over 200 children of the Fairfield Community. The officers and other employees of the Fairfield Police Department now donate a portion of their checks every week towards the Cops Care for Kids program to ensure that Kingston’s idea and dream continued on.

Fairfield police officers play Santa for local kids.

And even though we lost Kingston last year, his memory and spirit still lives on with the program. To ensure the program continues for many, many years, Kingston left the program financially sound, so we could continue the tradition, because we truly care about the children of our community.

“As Chief, I was very humbled when I was informed about this program when I first started,” said Fairfield Police Chief Tom Gould. “I feel honored to work with employees who care so greatly for the youth in our community.”

Officer Shanna Blodgett added, “The officers of the Fairfield Police Department are very proud of this program and what it has grown to be. We look forward to our ‘wrapping’ party each year and to be able to see the joy and excitement on the boys’ and girls’ faces when we arrive to deliver. They simply light up.”

Give Us Your Best Shot! week of January 4, 2018

REMEMBER THIS?: Pat Clark, of Palermo, photographed these water lilies last June.

LET’S TALK ABOUT IT: A blue jay and cardinal talk about it over lunch in Michael Bilinsky’s backyard in China Village.

PEEK A BOO: Bob Poulin, of Winslow, captured this chipmunk peeking out of this downspout.

FOR YOUR HEALTH: Use your brain to tackle tinnitus

Hearing aids have proven helpful for people with hearing loss who also experience tinnitus.

(NAPSI)—Approximately 80 percent of people with hearing loss also suffer from tinnitus—a ringing, buzzing, whistling or other noises in the ear. It can disrupt life and interfere with your enjoyment of everyday activities, but you can find relief.

Hearing aids have proven help-ful for people with hearing loss who also experience tinnitus. That’s because with better hear-ing, the brain has other external sounds to listen to, making tinni-tus less disturbing. Improved hearing also takes away the strain of listening, especially in difficult listening situations, and may help to reduce the stress associated with tinnitus.

Refocusing the Brain

There are many ways to take control of your tinnitus and reduce its impact on your life. Oticon Opn™ hearing aids offer the benefits of a balanced and rich sound experience that doesn’t overload the brain and a powerful solution for tinnitus relief. With built-in Tinnitus SoundSupport, the hearing aids allow you benefit from a range of soothing relief sounds, including popular ocean and nature sounds. You can adjust the sounds until they give the relief you need—wherever you find yourself needing it. You can also wirelessly stream alter-native tinnitus relief options, such as your favorite music, audio books, podcasts, or even relaxation guides directly to your hearing aids.

Hearing Care Is Health Care

It makes good sense to take care of your hearing health, just as you do the rest of your health. You owe it to yourself to schedule a visit with a hearing care professional for a hearing evaluation.

Learn more at www.Oticon.com/Opn.