FOR YOUR HEALTH: Rural Americans Face Greater Challenges In Accessing Cancer Care, According To New National Survey

(NAPSI)—Nearly double the number of Americans in rural areas versus nonrural areas reported having an insufficient number of cancer doctors near where they live. This is one of the many findings from the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO)’s second annual National Cancer Opinion Survey, which was conducted online by The Harris Poll.

According to the survey, rural Americans are the most concerned about the availability of cancer care near where they live:

  • Four in 10 rural Americans who have or had cancer say there aren’t enough doctors specializing in cancer care near their home, compared to 22 percent of urban and suburban patients.
  • Rural patients spend an average of 50 minutes traveling one way to see their cancer doctor, versus 30 minutes for nonrural patients.
  • Thirty-six percent of patients in rural areas say they had to travel too far to see the doctor managing their cancer care versus 19 percent of nonrural patients.

“The unfortunate reality is that rural Americans routinely have to travel long distances for cancer care, which can lead to dangerous delays in their diagnosis and treatment,” said ASCO President Monica Bertagnolli, M.D., FACS, FASCO. “As a result, rural counties have higher death rates from many common cancers than urban areas. Our health care system needs to address these disparities so that every patient, no matter where he or she lives, can access high-quality cancer care.”

The survey also found that Americans from all parts of the country are worried about the cost of cancer care. If faced with a cancer diagnosis, 57 percent of Americans say they would be most concerned about the financial impact on their families or about paying for treatment, compared to 54 percent, each, who say they would be most concerned about dying or about cancer-related pain and suffering.

Even more than patients, family caregivers bear the brunt of the high cost of cancer treatment:

  • Among caregivers responsible for paying for cancer care, nearly three in four (74 percent) say they’re concerned about affording it.
  • More than six in 10 caregivers (61 percent) say they or another relative has taken an extreme step to help pay for their loved one’s care, including working extra hours (23 percent), postponing retirement (14 percent), taking on an additional job (13 percent) or selling family heirlooms (9 percent).

“Patients are right to be concerned about the financial impact of a cancer diagnosis on their families,” said ASCO Chief Medical Officer Richard L. Schilsky, M.D., FACP, FASCO. “It’s clear that high treatment costs are taking a serious toll not only on patients, but also on the people who care for them. If a family member has been diagnosed with cancer, the sole focus should be on helping him or her get well. Instead, Americans are worrying about affording treatment, and in many cases, they’re making serious personal sacrifices to help pay for their loved ones’ care.”

Despite challenges accessing cancer care due to cost and travel time, the overwhelming majority of Americans are happy with the cancer care they have received: Nearly nine in 10 people with cancer believe they have gotten high-quality care and are satisfied with the quality of the doctors who specialize in cancer care near where they live (88−89 percent).

The national survey, commissioned by ASCO, was conducted online by The Harris Poll from July 10−August 10, 2017 among 4,887 U.S. adults ages 18 and older. Of these adults, 1,001 have or had cancer.

More information is available at www.asco.org; use search term “National Cancer Opinion Survey.”

PAGES IN TIME: The Killdeer Lodge story – part 2

Killdeer Lodge, circa 1930s. The Town Line file photo

Part 1 is available here.

With the demise of the old Killdeer Lodge recently, which over the years had fallen into disrepair, the following article represents a history of the lodge, from its inception in 1929, to the razing in 2018.

This is a reprint from The Town Line, September 18, 1999, issue, from a recollection written by Ben S. Dillenbeck in 1975 for the China Bicentennial History Book.

The advertising program begun by Eli Wagner in the summer of 1929, drawing people to China Lake’s Killdeer Point with the goal of selling lots in his development, continued during the warm months for several seasons. In spite of the stock market crash and the beginning of that Big Depression of the ‘30s, Eli continued to operate as the president of the Killdeer Maine Co. However, the tight money conditions of those days finally forced its pinching effect and Eli took to other fields where he used his talents in other developments. He had envisioned a summer colony of at least 100 cottages, a summer store, theater and religious chapel. But when the depressions’ effects really hit, many, who had planned to build, were forced to abandon their plans. There now are 28 cottages at the Killdeer Point Highland Development, which today would be legally designated as a subdivision. Two of these cottages have been converted into year-round residences, both of which can be reached only over private roads. The main road leading down into Killdeer, which Eli named “Harlem Road,” was built by Killdeer Maine Co. starting in 1928, on what was originally mapped as a “Town Rangeway.”

During the depression years, from about 1934 until the economy recovered, Killdeer Lodge tried to operate by taking both transient and American plan guests, without success: so for a few years the place was closed. During a couple of those lean summer seasons, two enterprising young Colby students hired the dining hall building and ran dances. They called the place “Dreamworld” and some area residents may recall spending pleasant evenings there.

From 1946 to about 1952, Killdeer Lodge and dining hall were operated by myself, my wife and family. Business fluctuated each year from “fair to poor.” It was hard work and a nonprofit undertaking! Supplemental income results from rentals to outside organizations for special events. Many Colby College fraternity spring dances were held there and as late as 1962 Colby College seniors held their Commencement Week Outing and Field Day there, which culminated in a huge lobster bake on the lawn, put on by the late Bill Macomber of the Colby staff.

These were happy, good time affairs, with as many as 250 seniors and guests participating. The Kennebec Bar Association also held some of its annual meetings and banquets at Killdeer, the first being arranged by Ed Muskie, who had a cottage not too far away. The Hathaway Shirt Co sales department for many years, was another client that seemed to enjoy Killdeer for its annual outing and banquet. The nice part of this affair was the excellent catering of the late Clarence Milton. What a fine man and what a wonderful feed he could put on!

St. Joseph’s Church, in Waterville, also made use of the Killdeer facilities for its three-day annual fiesta or “Maharajan” as it was also called. Another outstanding event for a number of years, until  Colby acquired its own Belgrade property, was the annual Coaches Clinic Outing and Banquet, under the leadership of Lee Williams and Bill Millett. Some very noted coaches participated in these affairs, among them Frank Leahy, of Notre Dame, Adolph Rupp, of Kentucky and Henry Iba, of Cincinnati, who was later to be coach of the U.S. Olympic basketball team. For at least 10 years, the District Deputies Association of the Grand Lodge of F&A Masons for the state of Maine held their annual meeting and picnic at Killdeer Dining Hall, on the first Sunday after Labor Day. The last Killdeer Dining Hall rental was made to father Guillet of St. Bridget’s Church, of North Vassalboro, for Sunday Mass services.

On March 20, 1963, during a winter of very heavy snowfall, young Gary Hamilton came riding down the road on a sunny afternoon and excitedly asked me what had happened to the Killdeer dining hall. “Come and take a look!” he urged. We hurried up the highway and were shocked by the sight. The whole dining hall part of the building had collapsed! As the snow was three – four feet deep, an inspection was made on snowshoes. Apparently, the east wall would not sustain the great snow weight on the big roof – so down it came, smashing everything beneath, including about one-third of the floor on the east side. The building containing the fining room and recreation hall was never rebuilt. Afterwards, Killdeer Lodge continued to operate as a Sleep Lodge only.

Next week: the conclusion.

Local trio cited at annual soccer banquet

Ben Danner (left), Carter Lambert (center), and Isaac Lambrecht

by Dan Cassidy

The Maine Soccer Coaches held their 45th Annual Maine Soccer All-Star Banquet Sunday in Bangor.

Presentation of Awards included the 24th Maine Soccer Coaches Senior Bowl MVPs, Northern and Southern Maine Regional All-Star teams, Northern and Southern Maine State teams, Maine Soccer “Coach of the Year” Awards, United Soccer Coaches “Coach of the Year Nominees, Class “Players of the Year” Awards, All Region Awards and All American Awards.

Over 200 high school boys soccer students attended the banquet from throughout the state of Maine.

Local awards were presented to Northern and Southern Maine Regional All-Star teams that included senior Carter Lambert, a keeper from Messalonskee High School, in Oakland, senior Ben Danner, mid-fielder from Waterville High School and senior Isaac Lambrecht, forward from Winslow High School.

Are pets the right fit as a Christmas gift? Pets in for long haul beyond Christmas

by Jackie Edwards

A new pet might be one of the most exciting gifts to give someone at Christmastime. We tend to see a rise in demand of puppies and kittens leading up to Christmas, culminating in the happy reveal to the recipient. A recent survey completed by the ASPCA shows that approximately 86% of pets given as gifts are still in the home, so you need to keep in mind the how much of a time, money and energy commitment they can be. It’s also estimated that more than one-in-five puppies or kittens given as Christmas presents will ultimately be surrendered to shelters.

Do You Want a Pet?

There are several things which need to be taken into consideration and addressed, the most important one being the person receiving the pet expressing previous interest in wanting a pet. Another factor to consider is the ability of the person, or family, receiving the pet to take care of it in a responsible manner. Pets are long-term commitments, with lifespans for dogs being up to 10 or more years, and cat can live up to 15 years or more. Other animals have varying life spans, so know in advanced the commitment your family will need and factor it into your decision.

Procuring a Pet

There’s so much information about purchasing from a breeder versus rescuing a pet, it can boggle the mind. There’s also the issue with the age of the pets, pitting kittens and puppies against older or even senior pets. The best way to wade through the discussion is to consider what you want from your pet, whether it’s simply a companion at home to one which will hike a mountain with you. Puppies and kittens will require training of some type to get them house trained, get them socialized with other animals, and will require an eye kept on them to avoid trouble. You must determine which pet will suit your family best.

Be Prepared

Love is a wonderful thing in life to receive and to give. Owning a pet can change your life in so many ways if given the chance. The unconditional love you receive from a pet can make even the worst day better. As caretaker of a pet, you are endowed with the job of taking care of another life. It’s like having another child in the house, or a child you never expected to have, but love none the less. You will need to be prepared to live with the good times and the bad, accidents and victories, and the cost of taking care of a pet. Great food, pet supplies, toys, some clothes, a pet subscription box, and trips to the vet can add up for a family, so it would be wise to add it to the list of things to consider.

A pet is not just for Christmas, you are getting a ball of fur to love and cherish for as long as possible. Being prepared for what will come with owning a pet, will ensure you and the pet will be happy and enjoy life together. Don’t let your family, or your new four-legged friend, down by not taking this commitment to heart and be all-in for the long haul.

SOLON & BEYOND: Local shelter hustling and bustling

Marilyn Rogers-Bull & Percyby Marilyn Rogers-Bull & Percy
grams29@tds.net
Solon, Maine 04979

Good morning, my friends. Don’t worry, be happy!

There will be a Holiday Concert: Steel Drums, featuring “The Snow Pond Pantastics” on Saturday, December 8, at 4 p.m., at the Solon Congregational Church. Refreshments will be served. Admission by donation.

Was very pleased to receive an e-mail from Tim and Pat Hunt of the New Hope Evangelical Church telling what has been going on there. “The shelter there has been hustling and bustling all year. We are so thankful for our director, and our shelter manager and all the staff and volunteers who do such a great job here. God has provided through the prayers and the sacrifices of His wonderful people, and we are so thankful for His faithfulness. Thank you for your generosity and kindness to those women who are homeless and in need. You have helped bring comfort and healing to wounded souls. Most importantly, you have helped bring the message of hope and salvation to hearts prepared by the Holy Spirit to receive it.”

Pat and I have gotten involved with the Skowhegan Community Chorus, an area-wide group that performs several concerts a year. This fall some from the church and other good friends have joined us as well.

The church will be having its own Christmas program, A Simple Christmas Story, on Friday, December 14, at 6:30 p.m. This story is interwoven throughout with music that will uplift and encourage you this Christmas season. Discover the promise that can be yours this Christmas!

The ladies at New Hope meet every two months for a Ladies Brunch for food, fellowship and a well planned program.

Another ministry to men, along with the monthly men’s breakfast, is the Man Cave, which usually meets every couple of weeks. The purpose of the Man Cave is for fellowship and addressing important topics concerning men.

We helped celebrate three of our granddaughters high school graduations this past spring. Elli, Zoe, and Abbie all graduated, and our oldest grandson, Gabe, just turned 20! He is a fulltime welder.

Most of our spare time in the summer was taken up with repairing our pool after a hard winter brought about its destruction, breaking the skimmer, crimping the wall, and cracking the liner. Then the pump had to be replaced. But we got it functioning again and spent a lot of time in it.

The Skowhegan Community Chorus will be performing at New Hope on Saturday, December 8, at 7 p.m. Everyone is invited.

And now for Percy’s memoir entitled, Not by Chance or Happenstance: Into our lives come many things to break the dull routine… The things we had not planned or that happen unforeseen … The sudden, unplanned meeting that comes with sweet surprise And lights the heart with happiness like a rainbow in the skies. Now some folks call it fickle fate and some folks call it chance, While others just accept it as a pleasant happenstance. But no matter what you call it, it didn’t come without design, For all our lives are fashioned by the hand that is divine And every lucky happening and every lucky break Are little gifts from God above that are ours to freely take. (words by Helen Steiner Rice.) Another saying of hers is “Look Up” It’s easy to grow downhearted when nothing goes your way, It’s easy to be discouraged when you have a troublesome day, But trouble is only a challenge to spur you on to achive The best that God has to offer if you have the faith to believe.

NEWS FROM THE VA: Because of your input, changes coming at VA

All gave some…some gave all: Flags line all the graves at the Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery, in Augusta. (photo by Kevin Giguere, Central Maine)

Gary Kennedyby Gary Kennedy

For all of you who follow our veteran related articles and respond, we thank you for your great response and will answer your comments and concern in the order received.

* There are many issues both positive and negative that affect our veterans. We look forward to your input and we will try to find favorable solutions and information for all that participates.

* I am happy to report that because of our input with VA Togus, the release of information section has reopened. Your response and our action were pivotal in getting the job done. It looked like the new director was getting off on the wrong foot, but perhaps we need to reassess our previous opinion. Now the Veteran Service Organizations (VSO’s) will be able to once again move rapidly with veterans issues by being able to collect Veteran medical information in an expeditious manner.

* Another positive will take affect nationally and that is the cost of living adjustment (COLA) which is evaluated each year along side of the Social Security (COLA). These are usually the same if given at all. This past October 9, 2018, President Donald Trump endorsed Public Law 115-258 which provides an increase in VA benefits by 2.8 percent. This takes affect this December 1 and will be seen in the January 1 check. Also the dependent and indemnity compensation (DIC) for veteran’s survivors will receive the same. This is suppose to protect against inflation.

*Also we have talked about National Guard in the past and it is felt by some of us that they have been given an unfair shake. When you look at a National Guard training record you will see orders for basic training which entails 88 days of active duty. It has gone without question it seems by Service Organizations. This period is two days short of VA medical benefits which requires 90 days. Can you see the pattern here? I certainly can and have taken action by doing a test case to bring it out in the open.

When I served in the Army I was in the regulars and served 90 days in basic plus. So, I would be qualified to be reviewed for medical benefits. In my opinion this is a government way of having their cake and eating it as well. This is a terribly unfair practice by the powers that be.

The guard was originally meant to be a “State Militia and was eventually taken over by the federal government. Some of the guard has been activated to go and fight on foreign soil. Those guardsmen have been compensated. The others were standing by; yet they are not qualified for VA benefits because of two days. We are hoping to change that. We will have some answers in the near future and if we are successful thousands of National Guardsman can come forward. Wish us luck and let us know what you think.

Also, I will mention something in closing that most of you don’t know and that is; some veterans have been plagued with infertility. In vitro fertilization is now a possibility if you qualify. I know that is very important to some of us. Talk to your primary care provider.

Take care fellow veterans and keep the faith. There are people out there that are fighting for you. Thank you for your service and God be with you. Yours in Service.

Obituaries, Week of December 6, 2018

LAWRENCE B. MURRAY

FAIRFIELD – Lawrence B. Murray, 60, of Fairfield passed away on Thursday, November 22, 2018, following a long battle with cancer and other illnesses, at Inland Hospital, in Waterville. He was born in Waterville on June 18, 1958, the son of the late Bernard L. and Virginia (Hanson) Murray.

Lawrence married the former Alice M. Glidden on July 6, 1986.

His employment included lube technician, custodian, and paper carrier until his illnesses prevented him from working.

Lawrence was a member of the Sons of the American Legion. He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed camping, hunting, and fishing, especially at Joe Hole at Moxie Falls, McDougal Pond, and Kingsbury, Lawrence loved his Lawrence Bulldogs. He also loved spending time with his family, especially the children. He also enjoyed canoeing the Kennebec River, and all types of birds and animals.

Besides his parents, he was predeceased by his sister, Brenda A. Alley; his uncle, Stanley Hanson; his stepson, Marcus Parsons Jr.; and his great nephews, Antoine Rowe and Terrance D. “TJ” Ladd Jr.

Lawrence will be sadly missed by his wife, Alice, of Fairfield; his stepson, Joseph Coombs and his wife, Jennifer, and their children, Leontine, Gage, and Dean, of Texas; his nephews, Durwood Beckwith Jr., of Hinckley and Shawn Beckwith and his wife, Rebecca, of Madison; his nieces, Michelle Beckwith and her companion, Richard Tracy, of Skowhegan and Angela Beckwith, of Vassalboro; his great-nieces, Nakai, Harmony, Emma, and Aubrie; and his sister-in-law, Sandra Noonon, of Fairfield.

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

Arrangements were by Lawry Brothers Funeral & Cremation Care, 107 Main St., Fairfield.

PAULINE M RIENDEAU

WINDSOR––Pauline Marie (Lachance) Riendeau, 71, of Windsor, passed away Friday, November 23, 2018, at her Windsor home. Pauline was born on November 2, 1947, in Augusta, the daughter of Adelbert and Bertha (Gilbert) Lachance.

Pauline attended St. Augustine school in Augusta. She married Gerald Riendeau on February 5, 1966, in Hartford, Connecticut.

Pauline was a kind, loving and gentle soul who enjoyed spending her days with family and friends. She was a stay-at-home mom most of her years until starting her retail career at WalMart until retirement.

She loved her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and her church “family”. Her presence will certainly be missed at the Augusta WalMart where she had made many friends over her years there.

She was predeceased by her parents; two sisters, Lucille Bastille and Simone Riendeau; and two brothers, Norman and Roland; step-granddaughter, Ashley Rideout.

Pauline is survived by her husband, Gerald; brothers, Donald Lachance, of Jackman, and Claremont, Florida, Richard Lachance, his wife Brenda, of Randolph, Robert Lachance and his wife Gerene, of Augusta; a son, Roland Riendeau and his wife, Melanie, of Newcastle and their children, Eric and Chelsey; great-grandchildren, Connor and Erza; daughter, Linda Szabo, and husband Richard, of China, and their children, Michael and Dixie; daughter, Nancy Crockett, and her fiance, Edward Pollard, of Windsor, and their children, Samantha, Jeffrey and Scarlett.

In lieu of flowers the family would like to honor Pauline by having donors contribute to the Alfond Cancer Center so that others can be helped fighting this terrible disease. Please send any gifts to: MaineGeneral Health, Office of Philanthropy, PO Box 828, Waterville ME 04903-0828.

ROXIE M. CLEMENT

FAIRFIELD––Roxie May Clement, 60, passed away at her family residence in Fairfield on Friday, November 23, 2018. Roxie was born on December 12, 1957, at the Sisters Hospital, in Waterville, the daughter of Fred H. and Mary Grard, of Fairfield.

Roxie graduated from Lawrence High School in June 1976. She also attended the University of Maine Augusta from 1992-1994.

Over the years she was involved in many community groups and organizations. Family and community were extremely important to Roxie. She was an employee of Irving Oil Corp for over 20 years. Her spirituality was a cornerstone of who she was and how Fred and Mary raised her. She was a lifetime member of Corpus Christi Parish, in Waterville. In recent times she enjoyed her time at camp in New portland with her husband and son, Jesse. She loved her home improvement shows. She especially loved to help her niece, Sherry Wilson, of Benton, during maple Sunday. She loved being surrounded by family. She was loving, kind and gentle.

Roxie was predeceased by her parents, Fred and Mary Grard; her sister, Carol Bradstreet; her brother, John Grard; and her nephew, Fredrick Giroux.

Roxie is survived by her husband, Randy D. Clement, of Fairfield; her son, Joel T. and Amber Moran, of Pittston; her daughter, Kelli and Chris Ramsook, of Iwakuni, Japan; her daughter, Ashley M. Clement, of Madison; and her son, Jesse T. Clement, of Fairfield; her granddaughter, Karah M. Ramsook, of Iwakuni, Japan; her grandson, Zayden D. Corson, of Madison; her sister, Doris and Henry Giroux, of Vassalboro; her niece, Sherry and Paul Wilson and her children; her niece, Mary Bradstreet and her children, of Benton; her niece, Michele Giroux and son, of Shawmut; her nephew, Ryan Bradstreet and Sonya Hunt, companion and family, of Thorndike, Debbie Bradstreet and family, of Pittsfield. Tanya and Mark Stevens and family, of Oakland.

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

Arrangements are by Lawry Brothers Funeral & Cremation Care, 107 Main St. Fairfield.

In lieu of flowers we ask donations be made to Temple Academy, 60 West River Road, Waterville ME 04901.

STANLEY K. MATHIEU

WINSLOW––Stanley Kenneth Mathieu passed away at his home in Winslow, on Saturday, November 24, 2018. He was born in Winslow on November 4, 1935, the son of the late Wilfrid and Mary (Mae) O’Brien Mathieu.

He attended St. John Catholic School through the eighth grade and graduated from Winslow High School in 1953. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Colby College in 1957, a master’s degree in history from the University of Maine in 1958 and several post graduate degrees from the University of Maine and Bowdoin college thereafter. In 1958 Stan married Mary Elizabeth (Story) Mathieu in Winslow.

Stan began his career teaching history and French in Groveton, New Hampshire. From 1961 until his retirement in 1999 Stan taught French, was a guidance counselor and also Director of Adult Education in the Waterville school system. Stan served in the U.S. Air Force, was a member of the 101st Maine Air National Guard and retired with the rank of major with 27 years of active and reserve duty in service to his country.

Stan spent summers remodeling and building homes in central Maine. in 1989 his company rebuilt Fort Halifax, in Winslow, following its destruction in the flood of 1987. For more than 25 years, before and after his retirement, Stan sponsored and chaperoned annual trips to Montreal and Quebec, Canada, for student taking foreign language courses at Waterville Junior High School.

Stan officiated at countless football and basketball games for local high school and college teams for more than 40 years, his last at the age of 65. He was president of a local credit union and general manager of Pine Ridge Golf Course, in Waterville, for many years. Stan was an accomplished bridge player, achieving the designation of Life Master.

In 2000, Stan married Janice Robertson Pooler with whom he enjoyed summers at their Winslow home on the Sebasticook River and winters at their second home in Port St. Lucie, Florida.

Stan was predeceased by his first wife, Mary Elizabeth Story in 1998; his parents; and sisters, Lillian Mathieu Lever and Constance Mathieu Fedorovich.

He is survived by his wife, Janice Mathieu, of Winslow, and her eight children and grandchildren; his brothers Roland Mathieu, of Merced, California, and Robert Mathieu, of New Castle, Pennsylvania; his sisters Jean Cassidy, of Winslow, Diane McGowan, of Huntsville, Alabama, and Kathleen Turio, of Windham, as well as many nieces and nephews.

Arrangements were under the direction and care of Gallant Funeral Home, 10 Elm Street, Waterville.

An online guestbook may be signed, memories and condolences expressed at www.gallantfh.com.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Mathieu-Story Scholarship Fund at the University of Maine Foundation, 2 Alumni Place, Orono ME 04469-5792; The Mathieu-Story Scholarship Fund provides scholarships to the University of Maine for Mathieu and Story descendents as well as graduates from Winslow High School.

SHAWN J. SHOREY

UNITY––Shawn J. Shorey, 46, died on Tuesday, November 28, 2018, at his home in Unity. He was born on November 20, 1971, in Waterville, the son of Robert and Jane (Greene) Shorey Jr.

He graduated with high honors froom Mr. View High School, in Thorndike, with the class of 1991,

Shawn had a great sense of humor and an awesome laugh. He took great pride in his long hair, not letting anyone convince him of getting a haircut. He was an avid collector of Coca Cola and had quite a few wheelchairs. He had a strong spirit and was determined to be self-sufficient, despite his life long struggle with cerebral palsy.

He was predeceased by his mother, Jane Greene; and his paternal grandparents, Robert and Leona Shorey Sr.

He is survived by his father, Robert Shorey Jr., of Unity; two brothers, Ronald Jackson, of Vermont, and Mark Jackson, of Belfast; grandmother, Virginia Spauldling, of Vassalboro; grandfather, Mervin Greene Sr., of Fairfield Center; and many aunts, uncles and cousins.

A graveside service will be held in the spring of 2019 at the Pond Cemetery in Unity.

To leave a message of kindness or to share a memory, please visit www.shoreynichols.com.

Care has been provided by Shorey-Nichols Funeral Home, Pittsfield.

MARY C. ROY

WINSLOW––Mary C. Roy passed away on Wednesday, November 28, 2018. She was born in Portland, on September 19, 1933, the daughter of Caroline (Hyde) and Charles L. Rolfe.

Mary was raised from early childhood by George and Alice Stevens, and their family became her family. She graduated from Cony High School, in Augusta, in 1951.

Mary met Gerald, while working at Beneficial Finance. They were married April 6, 1953, in Augusta, and enjoyed their strong and abiding love for 61 years. After many years of raising and caring for their four daughters at their home in Waterville, Mary re-entered the workforce, first at Waterville High School, and then moving on to Colby College a few years later. She worked a variety of secretarial and executive positions there. She retired in 1988 after 20 years within the Colby community.

While working full time, she also juggled the schedules and activities of her four girls. For many years she enjoyed supporting Gerald in his work within the Lions Club.

Mary was able to enjoy early retirement and together she and Gerald traveled extensively throughout the U.S. and Canada, eventually spending their winters in Naples, Florida.

Mary will be lovingly remembered for her warm family gatherings both large and small; her endless sewing talents that lovingly clothed her family and beautifully created prom and wedding dresses for her daughters and granddaughters, maintaining a meticulous but ever welcoming home; her perpetual sense of style; and her ever helping hands and heart.

Mary was predeceased by her husband, Gerald; her parents, Caroline and Charles; as well as Alice and George Stevens; her sisters, Elizabeth, Margaret, and Rebecca; and brother, Jonathan; nephew, Kevin and an extensive family of in-laws.

Mary is survived by her daughters: Katherine and husband Eric Lambert, Christine and husband Randy Phair, Louise and husband Roger Collins, Annette Roy and husband Clayton Hoak; also grandchildren, Matthew (Cheryl) Lambert; Meredith (Matthew) Rego; Nicole (Nicholas) Rodway; Jeff Phair and partner Rachelle Black; Shandy Collins and fiancé Daniel Robbins; Samuel Collins and Benjamin Collins; as well as great-grandchildren Mitchell, Graham, and Vivenne; Abigail, Isabel and Landon; Alison; and Elianna; brother Daniel Stevens; sister-in-law Laurel Stevens; and a multitude of loving and well-loved nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m., Saturday, December 29, 2018, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 70 Pleasant Street, Waterville. A private burial will be held at a later date. An online guestbook may be signed, memories and condolences shared at www.gallantfh.com.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, 383 US Route 1, Suite 2C, Scarborough ME 04074; Maine Children’s Home for Little Wanderers, 93 Silver Street, Waterville ME 04901; or to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, P.O. Box 1000 Dept. 142, Memphis TN 38101-9908.

GRACE E. SPROUL

WINDSOR––Grace E. Sproul, 77, died Thursday, November 29, 2018, at the Oak Grove Center, Waterville, following a long illness. She was born in Gardiner on August 7, 1941, a daughter of the late Donald B. and Hazel B. (Cunningham) Jackson.

Mrs. Sproul was a graduate of Wiscasset High School and was a member of the Weeks Mills Advent Christian Church.

She had been employed as a Mental Health Worker III at the Augusta Mental Health Institute for 28 years. She had previously worked at Lipman Poultry, where she met her future husband Jimmy, and also worked at the Jefferson Elementary School in the kitchen.

Grace enjoyed her daily trips to Hussey’s General Store, playing cards and playing the lottery scratch tickets.

Mrs. Sproul was predeceased by her husband, James W. Sproul; a son, Gregory O. Brann and a sister, Nancy French.

She is survived by four children, Jeffrey S. Brann and his wife Leslie, of Nobleboro, Stanley R. Sproul and his wife, Cyndie, of Whitefield, Bradley J. Sproul and his wife Lisa, of East Waterboro and Sue E. Sproul and her partner Roland Brann, of Jefferson; a daughter-in-law Wendy Brann, of Randolph; two brothers Maurice Jackson and his wife Laverne, of Windsor, and Donald Jackson and his wife Trudy, of Harrollsville, North Carolina; three sisters Glennis Hutchinson, of Waterville, Rose White and her husband Phil, of New Port Richey, Florida, and Donna Jones and her husband Robert, of Jefferson; nine grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

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

Kennebec Historical Society to host tea on Dec. 9

The Kennebec Historical Society will host a Victorian Tea Party at its headquarters the Henry Weld Full Jr. House, 107 Winthrop Street, in Augusta, on Sunday, December 9 from 2 to 4 p.m., and if the weather does not cooperate, it will take place the following Sunday, December 16, at the same time. The Victorian Tea is a return to the “olden days” as many know we held this event for a number of years in the past.

There will be a variety of goodies to sample including cookies, snacks, coffee and of course tea! Enjoy the festive decorations and holiday musical selections by Christopher Faris. Anyone interested in decorating, serving or who would like to bring in some tasty treats are asked to contact Anne Cough, either by email at acough60@aol.com or by phone at 582-2823.

Bar Harbor Bank & Trust announces toy drive

Bar Harbor Bank & Trust is pleased to announce their first annual Holiday Toy Drive starting December 10. You are invited to bring a children’s toy to any branch of Bar Harbor Bank & Trust from December 10-21, 2018. All Bar Harbor Bank & Trust branches in Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont are participating.

“When doing your holiday shopping, pick up an extra toy for a child and drop it off at your local Bar Harbor Bank & Trust branch. We are accepting new, unwrapped toys in their original packaging,” said Joe Schmitt, SVP, Chief Marketing Officer at Bar Harbor Bank & Trust.

The toys collected will be donated to local nonprofits who will distribute them to children in the community, bringing smiles to many young faces this holiday season. Want to know which organization will receive your donation? Just ask your local Bar Harbor Bank & Trust branch!

Thank you in advance for your generosity.

FINANCIAL MATTER$: The two most important days in a person’s life

by Jac M. Arbour CFP, ChFC
President, J.M. Arbour Wealth Management

In this month’s column, I don’t want to discuss money, investment advice, or financial planning. Instead, I want to talk about the two most important days in a person’s life. What are these two days? According to Lou Holtz, former coach of Notre Dame Football and the New York Jets, the two most important days in a person’s life are the day he or she is born and the day he or she figures out why.

On Nov­em­ber 12 and 13, I attended the Harvey Mackay Academy: Street Smarts Summit. It was held at the Hotel Camby in sunny Phoenix, Arizona. My friend and mentor, Harvey Mackay, author of “Swim with the Sharks without Being Eaten Alive” called me in late July to extend the invitation. The event magnetized sixty authors, speakers, entrepreneurs, and CEOs from all around the United States. There was some serious talent in that room and I was fortunate to be a part of it.

Over the course of those two days, I listened to the transformative messages of eight of the world’s foremost authorities on topics such as time management, leadership, networking, sleep, creativity, business development, kindness, and teamwork. Each speaker earned the undivided attention of every person in that room and did so for the entire sixty minutes he or she had the stage.

On day two, Lou Holtz took to the podium. The second he did, the room fell silent, interrupted only by roars of laughter that were evoked by his sense of humor. He began by telling us that the candles on his birthday cake now cost more than the cake itself and that over the years, he has learned a few things about life.

The energy in the room quickly shifted as he began to dispense life advice, the kind that hits you right in the heart. In his sixty minutes, he shared ideas such as, “The good Lord put eyes in front of our heads so we can see where we are going and not in the back of our heads to see where we’ve been. Do everything to the best of your ability. Everyone is capable, no matter what, of doing their best. Don’t let anyone else control your attitude; only you can do that. You can’t have a relationship if it is not based on trust. Always do the right thing. Show people love before the catastrophe hits.” These were just a few.

Amidst all the great ideas he shared, the comment about the two most important days in a person’s life held me suspended in deep thought.

Have you identified your “why”? Have you ever asked yourself why you were born? Why you are here? Why you have the skills that you have? Why you have the friends that you have? Why you have the job that you have? Why you have the happiness, or the frustrations, or the successes that you have? Why anything?

Some people think that the future is a predetermined sequence of events and wonder what those events include. Is this really the case? I have learned that the future is something we create for ourselves based on the choices we make, and as Mr. Holtz said, choice is the most important word in the English language. The future will include whatever we think about the most, want the most, and desire the most, granted we take action and actively pursue the results we demand for ourselves.

If you take an honest look at your life today, you will quickly realize that many of the things in it are the direct results of decisions you’ve made in the past. If we don’t like our current situation, we must consider changing our actions, which likely requires us to change our habits, which likely requires us to change our belief systems.

I believe that we are each eternally unique and that each one of us has greatness within us. Once we understand “why”, everything changes.

See you all next month.