ERIC’S TECH TALK: My bipolar relationship with the Internet

by Eric W. Austin

I love technology. I hate technology. I just can’t decide.

When I was a boy, I dreamt of moving up to the mountains and living in the hollowed-out trunk of a redwood tree, making rabbit snares from deer tendon and barbed wire. Then Dad brought home our first computer. Now, I panic when the lights flicker and fret over whether I have enough gas for the generator.

Recently, I ‘liked’ a post on Facebook from a Californian cousin. He had shared an article from The Washington Post about a product that has been introduced into more than 600 American schools meant to reduce cell phone use by students. The idea is pretty simple. Each student receives an opaque, nylon case just big enough to hold a cell phone. On the open end of the pouch is a magnetic clasp. When touched to a special ‘magnetizer,’ the clasp is magnetized and becomes impossible to open. The students remain in possession of their phones at all times, but cannot see or access them while they are locked away in the nylon pouch. At the end of the school day, the students touch the cases to the special magnetizer again, which this time de-magnetizes the clasps, once again giving students access to their phones.

The program has been an unsurprising success. Grades have gone up, behavior problems have dropped, and people have started talking to one another again. What a great idea, I thought. They should implement this in every school!

Then another school shooting happened in Parkland, Florida. In its aftermath, the first thing many of those kids did was text their parents to let them know they were okay. And I thought, What if all those kids had had their phones locked away?

Whether it’s technology or just life that refuses to be free of rough edges, I don’t know. Technology has certainly invaded our society and isn’t going away anytime soon. I’m sure the first guy to invent a fork thought it was a great idea right up to the moment when his neighbor took it and stabbed him in the eye. How long before a shooter enters a school with a signal-locating device and goes on a hunting trip?

When I graduated from high school in 1993, school shootings were unheard of and the Internet was as yet in it’s infancy. My first year of college I still wrote letters home to my parents. Only the computer lab had a connection to something we might recognize as the Internet. However, things were moving fast and the following year Netscape, the first popular browser, was released. Then in 1995, an online bookstore launched called Amazon.com, and I was hooked.

It was the dawn of the technological revolution, and for me, a time of discovery. The ability to find information on anything, talk to people from half a world away, and engage in discussions on topics considered taboo in the circles I’d grown up in, was integral to my emergence into young adulthood. I remember thinking at the time: This will change the world! This will banish old superstitions and produce an educated population like never before!

Oh, how naive I was.

The Internet, like any tool, has a variable impact depending on how we wield it. On the one hand, it offers knowledge at your fingertips. On the other, it is cluttered with misinformation. And while we can choose to use it to expose ourselves to challenging views and evidence-based information, the Internet is also designed to cater to our biases.

Take Facebook or Twitter, for example. They are basically set up as digital versions of a high school clique, with posts judged by the number of ‘likes’ they receive, rather than the validity of their content. Shouting is encouraged, and gossip trends faster than facts.

Social media gives us additional tools to customize our feed by snoozing or unfollowing anyone that might annoy us. Over time, our choices feed into an advanced algorithm whose job it is to ensure our experience is as pleasant as possible. God forbid we might encounter something that challenges our established beliefs!

And the entire internet is like this, allowing us to filter the information we receive: follow certain people on Twitter and block others; customize your search results so you don’t have to see objectional content; tweak your spam filter so you won’t need to look at anymore emails about erectile dysfunction.

Am I proposing we eliminate these filter options? Hell, no! But in small and subtle ways the internet encourages us to customize our flow of information so that the world we see is not the ‘real’ one, but instead a version that is tailored specifically to us. The overall effect is to emphasize our specific individuality at the expense of our collective commonality.

In some ways, technology has united us like never before. In others, it constantly divides us.

Most of the news websites that have cropped up since the Internet’s inception present a strictly liberal or conservative viewpoint. What you see on cable news is 90 percent opinion and 10 percent news – a complete flip-flop from decades past. It seems the era of news neutrality is over.

Smaller, local newspapers still tend to be bipartisan affairs, mostly out of the necessity to cater to a mixed, localized audience. But when you can build your niche from people from all over the world, the narrowest viewpoints still find a sizable audience.

This ability of the Internet to validate even the most fringe views often blows political differences out of all proportion. And by empowering us to customize the information we see to such a granular level, it allows us to create ever narrower filter-bubbles in which to live. Jesse Singal, writing in an Op-Ed for the New York Times, put it nicely: “What social media is doing is slicing the salami thinner and thinner, as it were, making it harder even for people who are otherwise in general ideological agreement to agree on facts about news events.”

The Internet’s ‘ability to divide’ is seeping into our society and symptoms are popping up everywhere. Our politics have never been so partisan – and it’s not just the politics. The narratives spun by each side are like alternate realities. Flipping between CNN and Fox News will leave you with the frightening feeling you’ve just glimpsed a parallel world.

The sad part is that we are doing this to ourselves; technology is just the tool we’re using to dig the chasm that divides us. The scary part is that technology tends to accelerate cultural change, both the good and the bad; and at the pace we’re moving, the near future is not looking good. We’re facing total gridlock at best, a cultural civil war at worst.

The problem with the old world was that it was too easy to live in a localized bubble and care little for what was happening a world away. The problem with this new world is that it’s too easy to live in a filter-bubble of our own creation and forget to talk to the people sitting right next to us.

Eric Austin lives in China and writes about technology and community issues. He can be reached by email at ericwaustin@gmail.com.

Obituaries, Week of March 1, 2018

PHILIP M. WENTZEL

VASSALBORO––Philip Martin Wentzel, 89, of Vassalboro, formerly of China and Augusta, passed away on Tuesday, February 6, 2018, at Eastern Maine Medical Center, in Bangor. He was born on February 22, 1928, in Sao Paulo, Brazil, the second child of Ethel Louise (Lake) Wentzel and Roy Alva Wentzel.

The family returned to the U. S. in 1930 and moved to Augusta in 1931.

Philip attended Augusta’s Nash and Lincoln schools and graduated from Cony High School as “Third Honor Part in the class of 1946. He served honorably in the Army of the United Stated from 1946 to 1948, with a tour of duty in Allied-occupied Japan as a photographer and surveyor. He then attended Worcester Polytechnic Institute, in Worcester, Massachusetts, earning a B.S. in civil engineering in the class of 1952.

On September 13, 1952, Philip married the former Mary Ellen French, the youngest of six children of Thomas Cowan and Eunice Myrtle French, who owned and operated French’s Market Gardens, of South China. Philip and Mary were married for over 65 years until his death.

Philip was employed for 44 years in the Bridge Construction and Bridge Design Division of the Maine Department of Transportation (MDOT), formerly the Maine State Highway Commission, as a registered professional engineer, and worked on many bridge projects across the state.

Throughout his long live, Philip cultivated numerous interests, including, but by no means limited to, photography, home gardening, cartography, sharing the history of Maine narrow-gauge railroads with his children, maintaining ties with his relatives in the Wentzel and Kaulback families of Maine and Nova Scotia.

Also, baseball and basketball, swimming, skiing, hiking, mountain climbing and attending the annual MOFGA Common Ground County Fair since its inception in 1977.

A man of strong Christian faith and high principles, Philip honored his responsibilities to his family, his work, his friends, and his country. He will be remembered by many for his easy laugh and sense of humor.

Philip was predeceased by both of his parents; as well as a sister, Eleanor Mae Clark of Belgrade, and brothers-in-law Richard Houston and Morgan Harris.

Survivors include his wife Mary; their three sons, Robert F. Wentzel and wife Valerie Hunter, of Portland, Oregon, Thomas M. Wentzel and wife Cynthia Meler, of Tucson, Arizona, and John P. Wentzel, of Vassalboro; former daughter-in-law Nancy (Favor) (Wentzel) Phinney, of Santa Barbara, California; three grandsons, Robert and Nancy’s Lt. Col. (USAF) Jonathan F. and wife Claire Wentzel, Major (USAF) James B. and wife Kimberly Wentzel, and Robert and Valerie’s Joshua H. Wentzel; and four great-grandchildren; his sister, Lola Jeanne (Houston) Harris, of Berkeley, California; brother-in-law, Arthur Clark, of Belgrade; and by six nieces and nephews and their families.

To express condolences and participate in Philip’s online tribute, please visit www.DirectCremationofMaine.com.

Donations may be made in Philip’s memory to National Society for the Preservation of Covered Bridges, c/o Bill Caswell, 535 2nd New Hampshire Turnpike, Hillsboro, New Hampshire 03244.

ARTHUR CARPENTER

FAIRFIELD––Arthur “Biz” Carpenter passed away at Southern Maine Medical Center, in Biddeford, on Tuesday, February 6, 2018. Biz was born in Waterville on July 25, 1931, the son of Arthur Carpenter and Violet.

He graduated from Waterville High School in 1948. After high school he enlisted in the Army. He served for four years. Shortly after that Biz met Marie “Maggie” Adams.

Besides family, Biz had a couple of hobbies that brought immense joy to him. One of those hobbies was going to the Waterville Elks Club. He was a lifetime member. He spent many hours there and was a very “active member.” Biz enjoyed helping with the BBQ chicken dinners, did quite a bit of painting, and assisted with countless other activities. He made too many friends to mention here.

The other joy for this gentle, loving man was fishing. Oh my, how Biz counted the days leading up to the annual trek to East Gran Lake, in Danforth. He, along with a dozen or so family and friends, has trolled those waters since 1976. The enthusiasm Biz had for these fishing trips was exhilarating, and never wavered through the 40-plus years. The core of this enthusiasm came because he was going to be with those nearest and dearest to him. It didn’t matter that the fish would-often-be uncooperative. What mattered was making memories that could, and would, be shared time and time again. Imagine a “once-in-a-lifetime” moment happening on an annual basis!

Besides being predeceased by Marie and his parents; Biz was also predeceased by brothers Raymond, Don, and Neil; grandchild, Jeremy; and great-grandchild, Job.

Surviving family members are his two daughters Chrissy Jurdak, Robin Whiten and partner, Peter; a son Brian Carpenter and wife Karen; brothers Freddie and Danny; sister Marlene, as well as sister Diana and husband Ron; grandchildren Jessica and husband Eric, Jennifer, Heather and husband Shawn, Renee, Corey, Michael, and Marissa; great-grandchildren, Al, Halley, Elijah, Zeb, Dejah, Ethan, Evan, JD, , Aviana, Kianna and Peyton; step-grandchildren Miranda, Erica, and Eli; and numerous nephews and nieces.

Memorial donations may be made to the National Kidney Foundation Inc., 30 East 33rd St., New York , NY 10016.

KENNETH A. SMITH

WHITEFIELD––Kenneth A. Smith, 5- month-old son of Derek W. Smith and Katie M. Merrill, died unexpectedly Wednesday, February 14, 2018, at his home. He was born in Augusta on September 19, 2017.

Kenneth was the happiest boy. He always wore a smile and loved everyone he met.

Kenneth is survived by his parents, Derek W. Smith and Katie M. Merrill, of Whitefield; a brother, Granger Smith, of Whitefield; grandparents, Kenneth and Tressa Smith, of Exeter, Lori Monroe and husband Frank, of Whitefield and Jeff and Laurie McKenney, of Harmony; great-grandparents, Sandra and Buddy Smith, Donna and Duane Olson and Linda Rossignol Theriault and Clint Theriault; aunts and uncles, Shae Merrill and Bradley Northrup, Austin and Kirsten Merrill, Jacob and Kelsey Smith, Jessica Smith, Jerrod Smith and Josh Smith.

Arrangements are under the direction of Plummer Funeral Home, 16 Pleasant St., Augusta.

Condolences, photos and memories may be shared at www.plummerfh.com.

Donations in Kenneth’s memory may be made to https://www.gofundme.com/baby-kenneths-funeral-expenses.

WILLIAM E. HAPWORTH SR.

FAIRFIELD––William E. Hapworth Sr., known to many as “Hap” “Ernie” “Happy” and “Ernest,” 84, passed away on Saturday, February 17, 2018, at Maine General Medical Center, in Augusta. He was born in Waterville on October 8, 1933, the son of the late Howard C. and Fanny L. (Hustus) Hapworth.

Following his schooling, Ernest served with the US Navy during the Korean War. He was a very hard working man who really enjoyed working and providing for his family. He was working fulltime for Flood Brothers Dairy Farm just two months before his death. In his younger years, he was a self-employed dairy farmer, operating Happy Acres Dairy. He also owned and operated a trucking company, Happy Acres Dairy & Sons Trucking. His employment also included working for W. S. Pillsbury and Hammond Tractor.

Hap was also very dedicated to several organizations including the Masons, Shriners, and, in his younger years, was a member of the Fairfield Center Volunteer
fire Department. One of his greatest passions was flying his own planes. He owned and flew many over the years. He would often fly to remote destinations up north to go ice fishing.

Besides his parents, he was predeceased by his sister, Kathleen Powers; and his daughter-in-law, Delia Hapworth.

Hap will be missed by his wife Jackie (Ronco) Hapworth; his children Patti White and husband Tom, of Fairfield, Cindy ‘White, of Winslow, William E. Hapworth Jr., of Fairfield, and Howard C. Hapworth II and wife Tara Grignon, of Fairfield; his sister, Alison Roberts and her husband Dana, of Winthrop; grandson Jason White and wife Tammy, of Fairfield; great-granddaughter Izabella White, of Fairfield; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

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

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in William’s memory to the charity of your choice.

ALBERIC PELLETIER

NORTH VASSALBORO – Alberic Pelletier, 85, passed away Sunday, February 18, 2018, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Augusta, of natural causes following a relatively short illness. Alberic was born on January 22, 1933, in Eagle Lake, son of Albenie and Rose Pelletier (Poissonnier).

As a child he moved to sidney with his family where he attended school. In 1951 he joined the U. S. Marine Corp and served a tour in the Korean Conflict. After his discharge from the Marines, he returned to central Maine where he married the former Caribel Porter on July 31, 1954. The young couple moved to Winslow.

Over the years Alberic owned and ran Al’s Sunoco gas stations and garages on Bay Street, in Winslow, Main Street, in Fairfield, and College Ave, in Waterville. His wreckers had “Here Come Al” signage ons the front that could only be read in a mirror. Alberic was an avid fisherman and a hunter, as he had an incredible shot. He went hunting in many states and various provinces in Canada. Al was a dedicated gardener and was an accomplished builder, as he built several homes in the central Maine area.

At his retirement, Al and Caribel moved to Casa Grand, Arizona, where they resided and made many friends until their return to Maine in 2008.

Alberic was predeceased by his parents Albenie and Rose Pelletier; his brothers Alvie, Alfred, Richard; sisters Estelle and Shirley Glazier; mother-in-law Gladys Porter and father-in-law Oliver Porter.

He is survived by his wife Caribel of 63 years; daughter Judith Rogde and significant other Richard, of Lancaster, Pennsylvania, and her son Jarrett and daughter Allison; son Peter and daughter-in-law Sally, on Intervale, New Hampshire, and his sons Brian, Lance and Scott; his son Randall and daughter-in-law Erlile, of Vassalboro, and his daughters Jasmine and Jayde; his daughter Jennifer Pelletier and significant other Scott, of Winslow, and her daughter Tasha; seven great-grandchildren.

An online guestboook may be signed and condolences expressed at www.gallantfh.com.

In lieu of flowers, the family would ask that donations be made to Alzheimer’s Association, Maine Chapter, 383 US Route One Suite 2C, Scarborough ME 04074.

OTHERS DEPARTED

GABRIELLE L. MANSON, 102, of Waterville, formerly of Fairfield, Oakland and Unity, passed away on Saturday, February 3, 2018, at Oak Grove Center, in Waterville. Locally, she is survived by son Parrish Manson and wife, Jessey, of Waterville, and daughter Pamela Manson, of Winslow.

LORETTE H. RANCOURT, 86, of Augusta, passed away on Thursday, February 8, 2018, at the Clover Living Center, in Auburn, following a long illness. Locally, she is survived by a daughter, Susan Ainslie and husband Boye, of Vassalboro.

EVA MAY NICHOLS, 71, of Skowhegan, passed away on Saturday, February 10, 2018, at her home. Locally she is survived by daughters Shay Perryman and husband Kenny, of Oakland, and Ida Noonan and fiencé Jeremy Clement, of Vassalboro.

HELEN M. LIBBY, 54, of New Harbor, passed away on Saturday, February 10, 2018, in Harpswell. Locally, she is survived by children Kara Ray and partner Mark Savage, of Washington, and Samual Ray and wife Jordan, of Liberty; brother Matthew Libby, of Unity.

EDMOND L. CARET, 71, of Ashford, Connecticut, passed away on Sunday, February 11, 2018. He was born in Augusta on July 7,, 1941, the son of Benedict and Malvina Caret. Locally, he is survived by brothers Tghomas Caret, of South China, and George Caret, of Augusta.

WALTER H. MASCHINO, 90, of Gardiner, passed away on Monday, February 12, 2018, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Augusta, following a short illness. Locally, he is survived by grandchildren Lisa and bob Caron and their children, Micaela, Samantha, Isaiah, Alexander and Beau, of Augusta, Tarsha and Josh Sack and their children Cody, Parker and Joshua, of South China.

KEENAN R. JONES, 53, of Waldoboro, passed away on Monday, February 12, 2018, at his home. Locally, he is survived by a sister, Allison Andrade and husband Mitch, of Washington.

LORRAINE P. HAYDEN, 70, of Starks, passed away on Tuesday, February 13, 2018, at Sandy River Center, in Farmington. Locally, she is survived by daughters Katherine Casey, of Waterville, and Patricia Hayden and fiancé Errol Ireland, of Clinton; and grandchildren Cassandra Gaskey and husband Steve, Alex Casey, and Miriah Casey, all of Waterville, Zachary Casey, of Madison, Tifani Warren, of Skowehgan, and Natasha Warren, of East Benton.

GERMAINE MATHIEU, 95, of Waterville, passed away on Friday, February 16, 2018, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, following a brief illness. Locally, she is survived by her children, David Mathieu, and Helen Nadeau and husband John, all of Waterville; grandson Daniel Nadeau and wife Kahli, of Waterville; brother Leonel Huard and wife Angela, of Winslow; sister-in-law Violette Huard, of Winslow.

AUDREY LAWSON, 76, of Gardiner, passed away on Wednesday, February 21, 2018. Locally, she is survived by a son, Brent M. Lawson Sr. and wife Bonnie, of China.

VASSALBORO: Meeting on dissolving AOS #92 planned for March 6

source: http://www.vassalboro.net/

by Mary Grow

Two major Vassalboro boards meet simultaneously Tuesday evening, March 6.

The Vassalboro School Board has scheduled a public informational meeting on plans to dissolve AOS (Alternative Educational Structure) #92 for 7 p.m. at Vassalboro Community School. The meeting will be preceded by a two-hour supper meeting to discuss 2018-19 budget requests; the budget discussion is also open to the public. A week later, on March 13, Vassalboro, Waterville and Winslow voters will vote on dissolving the AOS. Vassalboro polls will be open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. in the town office.

The Vassalboro Planning Board meets at 7 p.m. March 6 in the town office. Its agenda lists four applications:

  • From Leo Barnett to add an indoor growing facility on his Old Meadow Road property, off Riverside Drive;
  • From Joseph Presti III to dissolve the Country Way subdivision on Ilona Drive, off Crowell Hill Road;
  • From Jeffery and Erica Bennett to build two residences in the shoreland zone on Sheafer Lane, both more than 100 feet from Webber Pond; and
  • From Kevin Luczko for an automobile repair and sales business plus a beauty shop at 270 Main Street, on the south edge of East Vassalboro.

The Vassalboro Budget Committee was scheduled to meet March 6, but latest information from the town office is that the meeting has been canceled so budget committee members can attend the school board’s informational session.

The budget committee will meet at 7 p.m. Thursday, March 8, in the town office meeting room, after that evening’s selectmen’s meeting, scheduled for 6 p.m. The selectmen’s agenda includes a discussion with planning board members of proposed changes in Vassalboro’s building permit ordinance.

CHINA: Breton appointed to planning board; protest filed by other candidate

by Mary Grow

China selectmen spent almost half an hour of their Feb. 20 meeting debating whom to appoint to a vacant planning board seat – and the question might not be resolved, because the loser has questioned the process.

The planning board has five members, one chosen from each of four districts and one from anywhere in town (at large), plus an alternate member, elected (or appointed between elections) from anywhere in town and entitled to vote only in the absence of one of the five full members. The vacant seat is the at-large voting position.

Tom Michaud has resigned from the at-large seat. Former board member and chairman Ronald Breton and former member and chairman and current alternate member Jim Wilkens both asked to be appointed.

Neither man ran for planning board in the November 2017 election. Wilkens announced he was retiring, but was elected by write-in votes to the alternate position and accepted the post. Breton ran unsuccessfully for selectman.

Wilkens told selectmen after 14 years on the board, he would like to be a voting member again. Breton said he wants to continue to serve the town.

Selectman Irene Belanger suggested moving Wilkens to the voting position and appointing Breton the alternate member. Breton said he would not accept the non-voting position.

The four selectmen present agreed both candidates were qualified. They discussed procedure at length, ending with three motions on the floor, none seconded: Belanger’s to appoint Wilkens the voting at-large member, Jeffrey LaVerdiere’s to appoint Breton to the position and Chairman Robert MacFarland’s to table the issue until a full board was present.

At that point the missing selectman, Neil Farrington, walked in, surprised by the acclaim with which he was greeted.

After more discussion, MacFarland seconded LaVerdiere’s motion to appoint Breton, arguing that Wilkens should stay in the seat to which he was elected. Breton was appointed on a 4-1 vote, with Donna Mills-Stevens joining Farrington, LaVerdiere and MacFarland in the majority and Belanger opposed.

Later that evening, Wilkens emailed Town Manager Daniel L’Heureux, asking whether the at-least-occasional precedent of making the alternate member a full member when there was a vacancy should be followed; what the appeal process is; and whether Farrington should have voted on an issue discussed in his absence.

In other business Feb. 20, selectmen signed the official warrant for the March 24 annual town business meeting, scheduled for 9 a.m. at China Primary School.

They unanimously authorized L’Heureux to sign a contract with A. E. Hodsdon, the Waterville engineering firm, to act as China’s representative overseeing the planned construction of a replacement bridge at the causeway at the head of China Lake.

In November 2017 China’s TIF (Tax Increment Finance) Committee had cost estimates from A. E. Hodsdon and Wright-Pierce, the contractor for the new bridge. Wright-Pierce’s proposed fee for the work was $23,475; A. E. Hodson’s was $21,172 for oversight.

Selectmen plan to invite landowners Tom and Marie Michaud to discuss the new fire pond on the Michauds’ land on Neck Road. They authorized L’Heureux to take “necessary and prudent” steps to continue development of the pond.

Resident Linda O’Connor responded to questions selectmen asked in January about the LakeSmart program, in relation to the March 24 warrant article asking if voters want to use up to $20,000 in TIF money for the program. After a discussion of the relationship among LakeSmart, the China Lake Association (CLA), the China Region Lakes Alliance (CRLA) and the Youth Conservation Corps (YCC), O’Connor asked selectmen to send further questions and suggestions directly to CLA President Scott Pierz and CRLA President Jim Hart and “get me out of the middle.”

Selectmen unanimously approved a consent agreement recommended by Codes Officer Paul Mitnik, fining a contractor $150 for putting in a garage foundation without the inspections Mitnik is required to make under MUBEC (Maine Uniform Building and Energy Code).

The Feb. 20 meeting included an executive session discussion of legal issues with attorney Amanda Meader of Ellis and Meader, in Augusta. The session lasted almost an hour and a half; no action was taken afterward. L’Heureux said Meader has a contract to advise town boards when town attorney Alton Stevens is not available.

To accommodate board members’ travel schedules, the next regular selectmen’s meeting is scheduled for Wednesday evening, March 7, instead of the usual Monday evening. The meeting begins at 6:30 p.m. Jim Dinkle, executive director of the Kennebec Regional Development Authority that runs FirstPark, plans to talk with selectmen.

Williams to retire as chief of Maine State Police

Col. Robert Williams, China resident and chief of the Maine State Police

China resident accepts position as director of security at Colby College, in Waterville

Robert A. Williams, of China, head of the Maine State Police for the past seven years, has been named director of security at Colby College. His appointment follows an extensive national search. In his 33 years in law enforcement, Williams rose through the ranks, from trooper to ultimately being nominated by Governor Paul LePage to become colonel in 2011. Williams comes to Colby with extensive experience in emergency response planning, personnel management, and organizational development. He begins his work at Colby March 12.

“At a time when the security issues facing colleges and universities are increasingly complex, having a seasoned leader with experience in every aspect of protecting our communities will position Colby for continued strength,” said Vice President for Administration and Chief Financial Officer Doug Terp. “Bob also demonstrates a keen ability to build relationships, which is an important element of this role. We look forward to welcoming him to Colby.”

Williams began his career in law enforcement in 1983 as a trooper for the Pittsfield Police Department. He later became a state trooper in Skowhegan, for 11 years, before rising to the position of sergeant. In 1998 he became lieutenant in the communications unit, and in 2000 he rose to major, overseeing nine units. In 2007 Williams was named lieutenant colonel. His professional development experience includes crowd control and event security, team building and ethics, and extensive leadership training.

“As a native of central Maine, I have watched Colby continue to rise,” said Williams. “I am drawn to Colby’s commitment to excellence, something that I have continually worked toward as a member of the Maine State Police. After a full career in law enforcement, I am excited about the opportunity to interact with a whole new community.”

A graduate of University of Maine, Augusta, Williams earned a master’s degree in criminal justice administration from Husson University, in Bangor. He also attended the FBI National Academy, in Quantico, Virginia. He is a longtime member of the Vassalboro Fire Department, where he has served on the board of directors since 1992.

At Colby, Williams will lead a staff of 40 employees and will manage and administer safety programming, facility security, compliance, training, emergency preparedness, and critical incident management. He will work collaboratively with students, faculty, staff, and other constituents to promote a safe and secure environment.

A resident of China, Maine, Williams and his wife, Joyce, are the parents of two adult daughters with careers in healthcare.

FOR YOUR HEALTH – Healthy Living And Macular Degeneration: Tips To Protect Your Vision

(NAPSI) — Here’s health news you may be glad to see: A healthy lifestyle may reduce your risk of getting vision diseases such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), which can damage central vision and currently affects 11 million Americans. If you already have AMD, such a lifestyle may help protect your remaining vision. Here are hints on how.

Tips To Help Your Vision

Don’t Smoke. Smokers are more than twice as likely as nonsmokers to get AMD. Smoking narrows the blood vessels, reducing blood supply to the eyes. If you smoke, make a plan to quit with your doctor’s help.

Exercise Regularly. Exercise may reduce inflammation, which is a key contributor to AMD. It can also help lower eye pressure, which improves blood flow to the retina and optic nerve.

Eat a Varied and Nutritious Diet. Both your eye health and your overall health benefit from a diet rich in vitamins and minerals, including dark leafy greens, yellow and orange fruits and vegetables, fish, and whole grains.

Maintain Normal Blood Pressure and Cholesterol Levels. High blood pressure narrows the blood vessels that nourish the retina. Cholesterol deposits in the eye contribute to AMD.

Maintain a Healthy Weight. Being overweight contributes to AMD and increases your risk of heart disease and diabetes. Develop a healthy diet and lifestyle plan.

Protect Your Eyes Outdoors. Sunlight exposure may increase the risk of AMD. Wear wide-brimmed hats when outdoors and use high-quality sunglasses with a UVA and UVB rating of 99 to 100 percent.

Keep Track of Your Eye Health. It’s important to monitor your vision, to help with early detection of eye problems or to slow the progression of AMD. Schedule regular, comprehensive eye exams with your eye doctor. More than a vision test, the exam should include pupil dilation to detect diseases, and the use of tonometry, which measures eye fluid pressure.

Ask your doctor how often you should schedule exams, based on your risk factors. These include a family history of AMD and being over age 60.

Learn More

For more eye care advice, you can download The Top Five Questions to Ask Your Eye Doctor and other free vision resources at www.brightfocus.org/eye-health, or call (800) 437-2423.

SCORES & OUTDOORS: Unity College students initiate a turtle mark-recapture study; radio-telemetry and habitat mapping project

Roland D. Halleeby Roland D. Hallee

While watching a documentary about turtles on British Broadcasting Company/America (BBCAm) over the weekend, they had several episodes about turtles on the show Blue Planet. It got me to thinking about turtles in our area, and the plight they encounter. I have written on turtles before, but I felt it was time to do it again.

Recently, I received a story from Unity College on a program the students conducted over the summer, and I thought I would share it with you.

Here is the article:

wood turtle

As the antenna slowly swept a semicircle into the crisp fall air above his head, senior Greg Leclair listened closely to the steady beep of the receiver at his chest for any change in intensity. Up to his hips in leaf-strewn stream water, sporting camouflage waders and a Unity College baseball cap, if it weren’t for the radio-telemetry gear Greg could have easily been mistaken for a fisherman on a morning expedition. But his quarry was of a much craftier kind.

Suddenly, he paused, eyes squinting against the increasing blaze of a rising sun, and gestured upstream. “We passed him. He’s that way,” he called out, catching the attention of two other student volunteers combing nearby banks for any sign of their clever target. Somehow they’d missed him — but that was no surprise. He could be anywhere: cozy under three feet of water or tucked happily between the roots of a tree. He might even be sunning himself beneath a thin layer of sand on a nearby beach, virtually invisible to all but the carefullest passerby.

But 20 minutes later, the jig was up. Going on a hunch, Greg wandered up an embankment and into the woods nearby, antenna in hand, to search. The transmitter’s telling beeps assured that Gotham, one of ten radio-tagged turtles currently wandering the woods and waters surrounding Unity, Maine, promptly got pulled out of the shady protection of an overgrown raspberry bush. Since spring 2015, Greg and other Unity College students have followed the telling beep of their telemetry gear and waded through deep waters to locate turtles.

In partnership with Maine Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, Associate Professor Matt Chatfield initiated a mark-recapture study and a radio-telemetry and habitat mapping project on a nearby Wood Turtle population. At least once a week in fall and spring, students pull on their waders and search for turtles, both tagged and untagged, to collect data on. “This project and this college are a match made in heaven. We’re all about sustainability science, conservation and protection of the environment here, and this project really speaks to that,” Dr. Chatfield said. “This is a real opportunity to collect information that can be used range-wide to help conserve this turtle in its wild habitat, and also offers integrative experience that is essential in training the next generation of wildlife biologists and environmental problem-solvers. So far it’s been very rewarding — it’s always fulfilling as a professor to watch your students grow.”

As a group, turtles are the most imperiled vertebrates on earth. More than 80 percent of species are already extinct or threatened with extinction. The Wood Turtle is especially at risk, and is experiencing widespread decline throughout much of its range. The species is currently listed as a Species of Special Concern in Maine, and as a Priority 1 Species of Greatest Conservation Need in Maine’s Wildlife Action Plan. But data on Wood Turtles remains sparse, making Unity College’s study a much-needed attempt to fill in some of the gaps. The project will hopefully help scientists understand how Wood Turtle habitat use and movement patterns may be influenced by things like agriculture, road construction, and development. “This project, through close collaboration between students, faculty and MDIFW biologists, helps fulfill the mission of the college, while simultaneously empowering students through invaluable experiences on a local, yet globally-relevant conservation project,” Unity College President Dr. Melik Peter Khoury said. “Participation in the project through internships, work study, and volunteering through the campus herpetology club, helps students transition smoothly into graduate programs and further their career goals as biologists or conservation practitioners.” Each turtle found is tracked with a number, using the same system as the state of Maine because ultimately all of the gathered data goes on to Maine Inland Fisheries and Wildlife.

Besides their numbers, most turtles are also given informal names. “Shredder” came about after one turtle kicked so much during his transmitter glueing that he shredded the latex gloves of his handler. Another turtle unexpectedly turned up a solid half mile from his usual haunts one day and gained the name “Roman” for his efforts. “Gotham” got his name for his piercing yellow eyes and dark shell, bringing to mind an image of “the dark knight” for some students.

Dr. Chatfield has watched many of his undergraduates become increasingly interested in the project over three years of study, seeing its influence on their career paths, skillsets and sense of responsibility. He said he leans on Greg in particular in a way generally reserved in academia for graduate students.

DAYTONA 500: YAWN!

Was it just me or was this year’s Daytona 500, except for the final five laps, the most boring of all. I have never watched a Daytona 500 that had as many commercials as this one. It was like commercials every five laps, that took up about six or seven laps of the race. Here was how I tracked it. With 32 laps left, they went to commercial and returned with 25 laps left. Commercials again at lap 21, returned at 17, broke again at 14 laps, returning with 11 laps to go. And during the only green flag pit stops – very exciting to me – they were in commercials. I think I saw more commercials than the actual race.

Roland’s trivia question of the week:

When was the last time the U.S four-man bobsled team won a gold medal?

Answer on page 11.

Roland’s Trivia Question for the Week of February 22, 2018

Roland’s trivia question of the week:

When was the last time the U.S four-man bobsled team won a gold medal?

ANSWER:  2010, the team named “The Night Train,” at the Olympic games hosted in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

<– Back to SCORES & OUTDOORS

Legal Notices, Week of February 22, 2018

STATE OF MAINE
PROBATE COURT
COURT ST.,
SKOWHEGAN, ME
SOMERSET, ss
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
18-A MRSA sec. 3-801

The following Personal Representatives have been appointed in the estates noted. The first publication date of this notice is February 22, 2018.

If you are a creditor of an estate listed below, you must present your claim within four months of the first publication date of this Notice to Creditors by filing a written statement of your claim on a proper form with the Register of Probate of this Court or by delivering or mailing to the Personal Representative listed below at the address published by his name, a written statement of the claim indicating the basis therefore, the name and address of the claimant and the amount claimed or in such other manner as the law may provide. See 18-A MRSA 3-804.

2018-023 – Estate of BRENDA K. MARR, late of Norridgewock, Me deceased. Felicia Lambert, PO Box 394, Norridgewock, Me 04957 appointed Personal Representative.

2018-024 – Estate of ROY E. TOWLE, late of Cornville, Me deceased. Tammy Lynn Field, 1 Waite Hill Road, Cornville, Me 04976 appointed Personal Representative.

2018-025 – Estate of ELWOOD A. COPP, JR., late of Madison, Me deceased. Joan I. Copp, 228 Main Street, Madison, Me 04950 appointed Personal Representative.

2018-026 – Estate of RUTH G. RINES, late of Pittsfield, Me deceased. Char Lin R. Williams, 8 Hartland Road, St. Albans, Me 04971 appointed Personal Representative.

2018-018 – Estate of DONALD E. THALLER, late of Skowhegan, Me deceased. Joshua J. Thaller, 81 Timberview Drive, Skowhegan, Me 04976 appointed Personal Representative.

2018-027 – Estate of DONALD L. COLBY, late of Pittsfield, Me deceased. Jarrod Cook, 214 Heal Road, Lincolnville, Me 04948 appointed Personal Representative.

2018-028 – Estate of JOSPEH W. SCHISSLER, late of Detroit, Me deceased. Mark A. Curtis, 23 Katadin Avenue, Rockland, Me 04841 appointed Personal Representative.

2018-029 – Estate of COLLETTE L. ARSENAULT, late of Pittsfield, Me deceased. Nancy L. Bellfleur, 471 Peltoma Avenue, Pittsfield, Me 04967 appointed Personal Representative.

2018-031 – Estate of LEISHA N. GRASS, late of Skowhegan, Me deceased. Taylor M. Cummings, 1235 Westbrook Street, Portland, Me 04102 appointed Personal Representative.

2018-032 – Estate of FRANK A. ALLAIN, late of Madison, Me deceased. Barbara Mansir, 52 Joan Trail, Sidney, Me 04330 appointed Personal Representative.

2018-033 – Estate of KATHERINE F. WATSON, late of Pittsfield, Me deceased. John L. Watson, 161 Maple Terrace, Pittsfield, Me 04967 appointed Personal Representative.

2018-035 – Estate of DANIEL H. BENT, JR., late of Norridgewock, Me deceased. Travis Bent, 260 Madison Road, Norridgewock, Me 04957 appointed Personal Representative.

2018-036 – Estate of EMERY X. CHAMBERLAND, late of Madison, Me deceased. Evangeline M. Chamberland, 920 Molunkus Road, Cornville, Me 04976 appointed Personal Representative.

2018-038 – Estate of REGINALD DUBOIS, late of Pittsfield, Me, deceased. Reginald J. Dubois, 26 Overlook Terrace, Simsbury, CT 06070 appointed Personal Representative.

2018-039 – Estate of EDWIN R. HATHEWAY III, late of Anson, Me deceased. Christine E. Martin, PO Box 306, North Anson, Me 04958 and Edwin R. Hatheway IV, 852 Hallowell Road, West Gardiner, Me 04345 appointed Co-Personal Representatives.

2018-040 – Estate of PAUL STEPHEN SHORETTE, late of Fairfield, Me deceased. Irene E. Robertson, 21 Gilman Street, Apt 109, Waterville, Me 04901 appointed Personal Representative.

2018-042 – Estate of HENRY M. GLOVER, late of Smithfield, Me deceased. Michelle D. Coxen-Glover, 64 Eastwood Lane, Smithfield, Me 04978 appointed Personal Representative.

2018-043 – Estate of HELEN E. WEBBER, late of Madison, Me deceased. Clarence B. Webber, 74 Shusta Road, Madison, Me 04950 appointed Personal Representative.

To be published on February 22, 2018 & March 1, 2018.
Dated: February 16, 2018 /s/ Victoria Hatch,
Register of Probate
(3/1)

STATE OF MAINE
PROBATE COURT
41 COURT ST.
SOMERSET, ss
SKOWHEGAN, ME
PROBATE NOTICES

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN ANY OF THE ESTATES LISTED BELOW

Notice is hereby given by the respective petitioners that they have filed petitions for appointment of personal representatives in the following estates. These matters will be heard at 10 a.m. or as soon thereafter as they may be, on March 7, 2018. The requested appointments may be made on or after the hearing date if no sufficient objection be heard. This notice complies with the requirements of 18-A MRSA §3-403 and Probate Rule 4.

2018-030 – Estate of Aliesha Marie Bernier. Petition for change of Name (Adult) filed by Aliesha Marie Bernier, 156 Nichols Street, Pittsfield, Me 04967 requesting her name be changed to Nastia Del-Sol LaBonte for reasons set forth therein.

Dated: February 16, 2018 /s/ Victoria Hatch,
Register of Probate
(3/1)

STATE OF MAINE
PROBATE COURT
SOMERSET, SS
NOTICE TO HEIRS
Estate of MYRTLE L. MARBLE
DOCKET NO. 2017-351

It appearing that the following heirs of MYRTLE L. MARBLE, as listed in an Application for Informal Probate of Will and Appointment of Personal Representative is of unknown address as listed below:

Blaine Lovely
Wanda Lovely
Marvin Wayne Lovely

THEREFORE, notice is hereby given as heirs of the above named estate, pursuant to Maine Rules of Probate Procedure Rule 4(d) (1) (a), and Rule 4 (e) a.

This notice shall be published once a week for two successive weeks in The Town Line, with the first publication date to be December 21, 2017.

Names and address of Personal Representative: Deanna R. Tilton, 140 Raymond Street, Pittsfield, Me 04967.

Dated: December 21, 2017
/s/ Victoria M. Hatch
Register of Probate
(1/4)

STATE OF MAINE
PROBATE COURT
SOMERSET, SS
NOTICE TO HEIRS
Estate of
ROY E. TOWLE
DOCKET NO. 2018-026

It appearing that the following heirs of ROY E. TOWLE, as listed in an Application for Informal Probate of Will and Appointment of Personal Representative is of unknown address as listed below:

Joyce Towle, Jerry Towle and Erica Towle Duual; all of address unknown.

THEREFORE, notice is hereby given as heirs of the above named estate, pursuant to Maine Rules of Probate Procedure Rule 4(d) (1) (a), and Rule 4 (e) a.

This notice shall be published once a week for two successive weeks in The Town Line, with the first publication date to be February 22, 2018.

Names and address of Personal Representative: Tammi Lynn Field, 1 Waite Hill Road, Cornville, Me 04976.

Dated: February 22, 2018
/s/ Victoria Hatch,
Register of Probate
(3/1)

STATE OF MAINE
PROBATE COURT
SOMERSET, SS
NOTICE TO HEIRS
Estate of
PAUL STEPHEN SHORETTE
DOCKET NO. 2018-040

It appearing that the following heir of PAUL STEPHEN SHORETTE, as listed in an Application for Informal Probate of Will and Appointment of Personal Representative is of unknown address as listed below:

Paul Shorette, II of address unknown.

THEREFORE, notice is hereby given as heir of the above named estate, pursuant to Maine Rules of Probate Procedure Rule 4(d) (1) (a), and Rule 4 (e) a.

This notice shall be published once a week for two successive weeks in The Town Line, with the first publication date to be February 22, 2018.

Names and address of Personal Representative: Irene Robertson, 21 Gilman Street, Apt. 109, Waterville, Me 04901.

Dated: February 22, 2018
/s/ Victoria Hatch
Register of Probate
(3/1)

STATE OF MAINE
PROBATE COURT
COURT ST.,
SKOWHEGAN, ME
SOMERSET, ss
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
18-A MRSA sec. 3-801

The following Personal Representatives have been appointed in the estates noted. The first publication date of this notice is February 22, 2018.

If you are a creditor of an estate listed below, you must present your claim within four months of the first publication date of this Notice to Creditors by filing a written statement of your claim on a proper form with the Register of Probate of this Court or by delivering or mailing to the Personal Representative listed below at the address published by his name, a written statement of the claim indicating the basis therefore, the name and address of the claimant and the amount claimed or in such other manner as the law may provide. See 18-A MRSA 3-804.

2018-023 – Estate of BRENDA K. MARR, late of Norridgewock, Me deceased. Felicia Lambert, PO Box 394, Norridgewock, Me 04957 appointed Personal Representative.

2018-024 – Estate of ROY E. TOWLE, late of Cornville, Me deceased. Tammy Lynn Field, 1 Waite Hill Road, Cornville, Me 04976 appointed Personal Representative.

2018-025 – Estate of ELWOOD A. COPP, JR., late of Madison, Me deceased. Joan I. Copp, 228 Main Street, Madison, Me 04950 appointed Personal Representative.

2018-026 – Estate of RUTH G. RINES, late of Pittsfield, Me deceased. Char Lin R. Williams, 8 Hartland Road, St. Albans, Me 04971 appointed Personal Representative.

2018-018 – Estate of DONALD E. THALLER, late of Skowhegan, Me deceased. Joshua J. Thaller, 81 Timberview Drive, Skowhegan, Me 04976 appointed Personal Representative.

2018-027 – Estate of DONALD L. COLBY, late of Pittsfield, Me deceased. Jarrod Cook, 214 Heal Road, Lincolnville, Me 04948 appointed Personal Representative.

2018-028 – Estate of JOSPEH W. SCHISSLER, late of Detroit, Me deceased. Mark A. Curtis, 23 Katadin Avenue, Rockland, Me 04841 appointed Personal Representative.

2018-029 – Estate of COLLETTE L. ARSENAULT, late of Pittsfield, Me deceased. Nancy L. Bellfleur, 471 Peltoma Avenue, Pittsfield, Me 04967 appointed Personal Representative.

2018-031 – Estate of LEISHA N. GRASS, late of Skowhegan, Me deceased. Taylor M. Cummings, 1235 Westbrook Street, Portland, Me 04102 appointed Personal Representative.

2018-032 – Estate of FRANK A. ALLAIN, late of Madison, Me deceased. Barbara Mansir, 52 Joan Trail, Sidney, Me 04330 appointed Personal Representative.

2018-033 – Estate of KATHERINE F. WATSON, late of Pittsfield, Me deceased. John L. Watson, 161 Maple Terrace, Pittsfield, Me 04967 appointed Personal Representative.

2018-035 – Estate of DANIEL H. BENT, JR., late of Norridgewock, Me deceased. Travis Bent, 260 Madison Road, Norridgewock, Me 04957 appointed Personal Representative.

2018-036 – Estate of EMERY X. CHAMBERLAND, late of Madison, Me deceased. Evangeline M. Chamberland, 920 Molunkus Road, Cornville, Me 04976 appointed Personal Representative.

2018-038 – Estate of REGINALD DUBOIS, late of Pittsfield, Me, deceased. Reginald J. Dubois, 26 Overlook Terrace, Simsbury, CT 06070 appointed Personal Representative.

2018-039 – Estate of EDWIN R. HATHEWAY III, late of Anson, Me deceased. Christine E. Martin, PO Box 306, North Anson, Me 04958 and Edwin R. Hatheway IV, 852 Hallowell Road, West Gardiner, Me 04345 appointed Co-Personal Representatives.

2018-040 – Estate of PAUL STEPHEN SHORETTE, late of Fairfield, Me deceased. Irene E. Robertson, 21 Gilman Street, Apt 109, Waterville, Me 04901 appointed Personal Representative.

2018-042 – Estate of HENRY M. GLOVER, late of Smithfield, Me deceased. Michelle D. Coxen-Glover, 64 Eastwood Lane, Smithfield, Me 04978 appointed Personal Representative.

2018-043 – Estate of HELEN E. WEBBER, late of Madison, Me deceased. Clarence B. Webber, 74 Shusta Road, Madison, Me 04950 appointed Personal Representative.

To be published on February 22, 2018 & March 1, 2018.
Dated: February 16, 2018 /s/ Victoria Hatch,
Register of Probate
(3/1)

STATE OF MAINE
PROBATE COURT
41 COURT ST.
SOMERSET, ss
SKOWHEGAN, ME
PROBATE NOTICES

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN ANY OF THE ESTATES LISTED BELOW

Notice is hereby given by the respective petitioners that they have filed petitions for appointment of personal representatives in the following estates. These matters will be heard at 10 a.m. or as soon thereafter as they may be, on March 7, 2018. The requested appointments may be made on or after the hearing date if no sufficient objection be heard. This notice complies with the requirements of 18-A MRSA §3-403 and Probate Rule 4.

2018-030 – Estate of Aliesha Marie Bernier. Petition for change of Name (Adult) filed by Aliesha Marie Bernier, 156 Nichols Street, Pittsfield, Me 04967 requesting her name be changed to Nastia Del-Sol LaBonte for reasons set forth therein.

Dated: February 16, 2018 /s/ Victoria Hatch,
Register of Probate
(3/1)

STATE OF MAINE
PROBATE COURT
SOMERSET, SS
NOTICE TO HEIRS
Estate of MYRTLE L. MARBLE
DOCKET NO. 2017-351

It appearing that the following heirs of MYRTLE L. MARBLE, as listed in an Application for Informal Probate of Will and Appointment of Personal Representative is of unknown address as listed below:

Blaine Lovely
Wanda Lovely
Marvin Wayne Lovely

THEREFORE, notice is hereby given as heirs of the above named estate, pursuant to Maine Rules of Probate Procedure Rule 4(d) (1) (a), and Rule 4 (e) a.

This notice shall be published once a week for two successive weeks in The Town Line, with the first publication date to be December 21, 2017.

Names and address of Personal Representative: Deanna R. Tilton, 140 Raymond Street, Pittsfield, Me 04967.

Dated: December 21, 2017
/s/ Victoria M. Hatch
Register of Probate
(1/4)

STATE OF MAINE
PROBATE COURT
SOMERSET, SS
NOTICE TO HEIRS
Estate of
ROY E. TOWLE
DOCKET NO. 2018-026

It appearing that the following heirs of ROY E. TOWLE, as listed in an Application for Informal Probate of Will and Appointment of Personal Representative is of unknown address as listed below:

Joyce Towle, Jerry Towle and Erica Towle Duual; all of address unknown.

THEREFORE, notice is hereby given as heirs of the above named estate, pursuant to Maine Rules of Probate Procedure Rule 4(d) (1) (a), and Rule 4 (e) a.

This notice shall be published once a week for two successive weeks in The Town Line, with the first publication date to be February 22, 2018.

Names and address of Personal Representative: Tammi Lynn Field, 1 Waite Hill Road, Cornville, Me 04976.

Dated: February 22, 2018
/s/ Victoria Hatch,
Register of Probate
(3/1)

STATE OF MAINE
PROBATE COURT
SOMERSET, SS
NOTICE TO HEIRS
Estate of
PAUL STEPHEN SHORETTE
DOCKET NO. 2018-040

It appearing that the following heir of PAUL STEPHEN SHORETTE, as listed in an Application for Informal Probate of Will and Appointment of Personal Representative is of unknown address as listed below:

Paul Shorette, II of address unknown.

THEREFORE, notice is hereby given as heir of the above named estate, pursuant to Maine Rules of Probate Procedure Rule 4(d) (1) (a), and Rule 4 (e) a.

This notice shall be published once a week for two successive weeks in The Town Line, with the first publication date to be February 22, 2018.

Names and address of Personal Representative: Irene Robertson, 21 Gilman Street, Apt. 109, Waterville, Me 04901

Dated: February 22, 2018
/s/ Victoria Hatch
Register of Probate
(3/1)

I’m Just Curious: Had to pass this along

by Debbie Walker

1895 8th Grade Final Exam…

Take this test and pass it on to your more literate friends.

What it took to get an 8th grade education in 1895…

Remember when grandparents and great-grandparents stated that they only had an eighth grade education?

Well, check this out. Could any of us have passed the eighth grade in 1895?

This is the eighth-grade final exam from 1895 in Salina , Kansas , USA …

It was taken from the original document on file at the Smokey Valley Genealogical Society and Library in Salina, and reprinted by the Salina Journal.

Eighth Grade Final Exam: Salina, KS – 1895

Grammar (Time, one hour)

1 Give nine rules for the use of capital letters.
2. Name the parts of speech and define those that have no modifications
3. Define verse, stanza and paragraph.
4. What are the principal parts of a verb? Give principal parts of ‘lie,’ ‘play,’ and ‘run’.
5. Define case; illustrate each case.
6. What is punctuation? Give rules for principal marks of punctuation.
7 – 10. Write a composition of about 150 words and show therein that you understand the practical use of the rules of grammar.
Arithmetic (Time,1 hour 15 minutes)
1. Name and define the Fundamental Rules of Arithmetic.
2. A wagon box is 2 ft. Deep, 10 feet Long, and 3 ft. Wide. How many bushels of wheat will it hold?
3. If a load of wheat weighs 3,942 lbs, what is it worth at 50cts/bushel, deducting 1,050 lbs for tare?
4. District No. 33 has a valuation of $35,000. What is the necessary levy to carry on a school seven months at $50 per month, and have $104 for incidentals?
5. Find the cost of 6,720 lbs. Coal at $6.00 per ton.
6. Find the interest of $512.60 for 8 months and 18 days at 7percent per annum.
7. What is the cost of 40 boards 12 inches wide and 16 ft long at $20 per metre?
8… Find bank discount on $300 for 90 days (no grace) at 10 percent.
9. What is the cost of a square farm at $15 per acre, the distance of which is 640 rods?
10. Write a Bank Check, a Promissory Note, and a Receipt.

US. History (Time, 45 minutes)

1. Give the epochs into which U.S. History is divided
2. Give an account of the discovery of America by Columbus.
3. Relate the causes and results of the Revolutionary War.
4. Show the territorial growth of the United States.
5. Tell what you can of the history of Kansas.
6. Describe three of the most prominent battles of the Rebellion.
7. Who were the following: Morse, Whitney, Fulton, Bell, Lincoln, Penn, and Howe?
8. Name events connected with the following dates: 1607, 1620, 1800, 1849, 1865.

This is the first section of the test. I have split the information into two columns for the sake of space. Hope you enjoy it as I did. NO I did not pass.

As usual I AM JUST CURIOUS what your thoughts are. Second part next week. No questions (I don’t have the answers!) Contact me at dwdaffy@yahoo.com.