Roland’s Trivia Question for Thursday, November 14, 2019
Name the seven NFL teams with the initials of their cities on the side of their helmets.
Answer:
Kansas City, San Francisco, Green Bay, Chicago, NY Jets, NY Giants, Tennessee.
SOLON & BEYOND – Gallagher resigns: no special election planned
by Marilyn Rogers-Bull & Percy
grams29@tds.net
Solon, Maine 04979
Good morning, my friends. Don’t worry, be happy!
Selectman Keith Gallagher is resigning effective November 28, 2019. He and his family are moving out of state in December. The selectmen are sad to see him leave. He has been a real asset to the town and brought new knowledge and insight to the Board of Selectmen.
The selectmen will not hold a special election to fill his seat. Instead at the March 2020 annual town meeting there will be two selectmen positions on the ballot, one a three-year term and one a one-year term. Selectman Sarah Davis will be running again for a three-year term.
Nomination papers will be available for the two selectmen positions and the road commissioner position on Friday, November 29, and due back by Tuesday, January 7. The nomination papers will be available from the town clerk and are required to have the signatures of at least 25 registered Solon voters when they are turned in.
For those considering the selectman position, remember the selectmen meet every Wednesday from 7:45 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., and 6 p.m. to 7:45 p.m. Also in the spring they do property tax assessing several other days. Most of the work is done on computers using Word and Excel so familiarity with those programs is very helpful.
For those considering road commissioner a Class A or B driver license is needed along with knowledge of plowing, road maintenance, and equipment maintenance. It is a full time job with overtime when weather and/or road conditions demand it. The roadcommissioner is in charge of the road crew employees.
Elaine Aloes, selectman, town of Solon, PO Box 214, 121 South Main Street, Solon., Maine 04979, 207-643-2541- 2864, Fax. Office Hours Mon-Wed.Fri . 8 a.m. to noon and 1- 4 p.m., Wed., 6 to 7:45 p.m. Please visit the web site: solon.maine.gov.
Somerset County recently held its annual County Achievement Night at the Kennebec Valley Grange Hall, in Madison. The Solon Pine Tree 4H Club was the outstanding club in Somerset County. Several members received county awards in their projects. Kaitelyn De Leanardis in arts and crafts, Cooper Dellarmar, in forestry, for his maple syrup, Autumn Ladd, in dog, and Matthew Ladd, in poutlry.
Obituaries for Thursday, November 14, 2019
MADELINE L. POOLER
OAKLAND – Madeline Louise Pooler, 84, of Oakland passed away peacefully, after a long illness, on Tuesday, October 29, 2019. She was born in Waterville on December 30, 1935, the daughter of Norbert A. and Marie Belle (Bolduc) Rancourt.
On August 9, 1952, she married Harold T. Pooler, of Waterville, spending the next 60 years together.
Madeline loved to have her family and friends near. She enjoyed hosting many family gatherings. She was an active member of the community, participating in clubs and volunteering for many organizations. She regularly volunteered for the MaineGeneral Doll Factory. She was a member of the Exchangettes Club/Caring Friends, Newborns In Need, The Kennebelles and Red Hat Society.
She was an avid knitter and quilter. Her family’s favorite gifts were her hand-knit socks, hats and mittens. She spent time making clothing, blankets, hats and mittens for Newborns In Need.
Madeline was predeceased by her husband, Harold T. Pooler; parents Norbert A. and Marie Belle Rancourt; brothers Richard, Francis, Wilbur, John and Frederick Rancourt; sisters Justine Fisher, Jeannette Harding, Dorothy Fisher, Gloria Floyd; and stepmother, Grace Ames Rancourt.
She is survived by her children, sons Harold and wife Mary, of Florida, and Richard, of Oakland; daughters Eva Killam and husband James, of Skowhegan; daughter Lisa Austin ,of Oakland, and son Joseph and partner Marc, of Winthrop; grandchildren Jarod Pooler, Sarah Pooler-James, Ty Pooler, Jaime O’Neal, Devon Pooler, Jennifer Killam-Zambrano, Matthew Killam, Thomas Killam, Matthew Austin, Emily Meader; brothers Raymond Rancourt and companion Evelyn, of Fairfield, Eugene Rancourt, of Fairfield; sister-in-law Bernice (Pooler) Tardiff, of Belgrade; and many great- grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
Arrangements are under the direction and care of Gallant Funeral Home. An online guestbook may be signed, condolences and memories shared at www.gallantfh.com.
MERLE E. GEROUX
CHELSEA – Merle E. Geroux, 86, of Eastern Avenue, died Tuesday, October 29, 2019, at Alfond Center for Health, in Augusta. He was born in Jefferson on January 30, 1933, the son of Joseph E. Geroux and Elsie N. (Weaver) Geroux.
Mr. Geroux served honorably in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict.
He was self-employed as an auto mechanic for many years.
Mr. Geroux was predeceased by his wife, Annie Francis (Bell) Geroux; and two granddaughters, Crystal Allen and Melissa Allen.
Surviving are his six children, Michael Geroux and his wife Laurie, Brenda Sather, Merlene Allen, Timmy Geroux, Scott Geroux, and Melissa Geroux, all of Chelsea; 13 grandchildren, Mike, Matthew and Justin Geroux, Richard and Jessica Sather, Jeff Allen, Gavin Geroux and Zach Emery, Scott, and Travis Geroux, Trevor Rideout, Cody Geroux and Crystal White; and several great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews.
Condolences, photos and stories may be shared at www.plummerfh.com.
ANNE M. BOWE
WINSLOW – Anne Marie Bowe, 70, of Winslow, passed onto the Lord, Wednesday, October 30, 2019, following a battle with pancreatic cancer. She was born in Concord, New Hampshire, on March 26, 1949, the daughter of Lewis and Anna Bowe.
After graduating from Falmouth High School, Anne went on to get her nursing degree. She married Bernard H. Gauthier in 1969 and together had three sons and three stepdaughters; Sherri Gauthier, of Oakland, Lee Falconer, of Waterville, and Debbie Bedard, of Etna.
Anne spent many years working as a nurse in various local facilities, including Mount St. Joseph, in Waterville, and Klearview Manor, in Fairfield. She also worked as a psychiatric nurse for Mid-Maine Medical Center, in Waterville, for 15 years. She enjoyed family time, crafting, shopping and writing poetry.
Anne is survived by three sons, Eric Gauthier and wife Noreen, of Benton, Mark Gauthier and wife Heather, of Fairfield, and Matthew Gauthier, of Augusta; two brothers, Robert Bowe and wife Dottie, of Freeport, and Michael Bowe and wife Mary, of Sabago; aunt, Jeanne Spyrka and husband Tony, of Woonsocket, Rhode Island; two granddaughters, Allie and Kylie Gauthier, both of Oakland; and four nephews, Timothy Bowe, Scott Bowe, Daniel Bowe and Joshua Bowe.
A service will be held at Hope Cemetery in Kennebunk in the spring.
Donations can be made in Anne’s memory to the American Cancer Society at: donate3.cancer.org
ROBERT J. WRANOSKY
CHINA VILLAGE – On Wednesday, October 30, 2019, Robert “Bob” J. Wranosky Sr., 82, passed away in his home following a brief and courageous battle with cancer. He was born in Oconto Falls, Wisconsin, on February 4, 1937, to John and Joan “Eunice” Wranosky.
He graduated Oconto Falls High School in 1955 and began working at Scott Paper Company, in Winslow. He served in the United States Army from 1957 to 1961. After being discharged from the Army, he returned to Scott Paper Company, later named Kimberly Clark, and worked for 46 years and he continued contract work until 2018.
Bob was an avid outdoorsman. He was never one that would sit around, always “putzing” with something whether it was cutting firewood, trimming his cedar hedges, or working on house projects. He was a do-it-yourselfer. During the summer, Bob loved riding his Sea-doo on China Lake and in the winter, you could see him riding his Ski-doo or swishing down slopes at Sunday River, in Bethel. Bob was well known around town for his bright red Dodge Ram truck with the Hemi written on the side.
He is survived by his wife of 31 years Marcia; two sons, Robert Wranosky Jr., of Wheatfield, Indiana, and Thomas (Dawn) Wranosky, of Crown Point, New York; daughter Susan McConnell (Matt), of Tallahassee, Florida; stepdaughter Melissa Richardson of West Point, Virginia; sister Catherine (Larry) Kolkowski of Sampson, Wisconsin; two brothers, Leonard (Diane) Wranosky, of Columbiaville, Michigan, and Francis (Debbie) Wranosky, of Oconto Falls, Wisconsin; five grandchildren, Meghan Wranosky, Courtney Wranosky, Tyler Wranosky, Monica Black and Mark Black II; four great-grandchildren; several nieces, nephews and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Eunice Wranosky.
Please visit www.veilleuxfuneralhome.com to share your memories and condolences with Bob’s family and friends.
In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made to the American Cancer Society or a charity of your choice in his Bob’s name.
CLYDE F. MOSHER
VASSALBORO – Clyde F. Mosher, 91, passed away peacefully at the Maine Veterans Home, in Augusta, on Sunday, October 27, 2019. Clyde was born February 26, 1928, in Bristol, New Hampshire to Verne B. and Marian (Hubbard) Mosher.
He was the oldest of the three Mosher boys; Clyde, Bruce and Robert.
Clyde graduated from Bristol High School in 1945 and entered the US Army Air Force where he served with honor until August 1947.
At the Maine Veterans Home, Clyde was comforted by the caring and devoted staff. Always at his side was his wife of 48 years Elizabeth (Betty) Mosher. Betty’s daughter Donna Hadsell with husband Robert blessed Clyde with the gift of a true extended family. He’s remembered for his hard work, commitment, kindness and a sweet smile. He taught Donna how to drive a stick shift, stop on a steep hill and then start up and go over the hill just like he did through good and sometimes challenging times. Clyde loved nature, especially camping and teaching everyone in his extended family how to fish.
Clyde loved baseball, of course, the Red Sox, and he played for the Bristol team until in the summer of 19 51 when he broke a leg sliding into second base. Daughter Melanie Ann Mosher arrived in November 1951 and Clyde somehow drove to the delivery room in Franklin despite a leg cast and a blinding snowstorm. The route to Franklin he knew by heart after 10 years working as a milkman for Giles dairy delivering fresh dairy.
Customers knew Clyde as a man they could trust with open doors. Melanie and older brother Michael Mosher grew up thinking their father invented take your children to work day. Daddy frequently brought them along in the milk truck to enjoy an ice cream treat.
In Alexandria, New Hampshire, Clyde was a selectman and enjoyed one annual task: to hike Mt. Cardigan and mark the town boundary. A volunteer fireman, his garage became base for the Alexandria fire department.
Clyde’s career moved to selling insurance for John Hancock Insurance in Laconia, New Hampshire. In 1964 he became sales manager in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, and the family moved to North Berwick. He was promoted to district manager in Augusta, and retired in 1986. But not for long as John Hancock wanted him back to supervise instruction in Portland. In 2000 he settled in Vassalboro with Betty to pursue some fishing and their passion to provide guidance, comfort and joy to the extended family who now mourn his loss but cherish the memories.
In 2002, Clyde suffered the tragic loss of his son, Christopher Kevin Mosher, of Wells, and step-son, Michael Stevens, of Somersworth, New Hampshire, died in 2013.
Left to remember Clyde’s love are his wife, Elizabeth “Betty” Mosher; Michael Mark Mosher and wife Mahdiana Badri Mosher, of Woodland Hills, California, Melanie Ann Mosher, of Key West, Florida; step children, Donna Hadsell and husband Robert, of Vassalboro, Stuart Stevens and wife JoAnn, of South Berwick, John Stevens and wife Laurraine, of Somersworth, New Hampshire, Randy Stevens and wife Jennifer, of Gonic, New Hampshire, wife of Michael Stevens, Betsy; nine grandchildren, Samy Mosher, Farid Mosher, Maryasari Mosher and husband Mohamad Alostaz, Marisa Bourget and husband Scott, De’Ana Celestino and partner Shawn Pokey, Idaiah Mosher and wife Cassie, Sydney Mosher Menard and husband Dale, Morgan Mosher, Zachary Mosher and fiancée Shelby Mahdia; eight step-grandchildren, Jim, Shelley, Stuart III, Melissa, Zachary and Max, Nicholas and Samantha; great-grandchildren, Natalie, Lucy, Gavin, Abigail, Cameron, Camden, Miles; and step-great-grandchildren, Austin, Brady, Quinn, Lilly and Samuel.
In lieu of flowers, friends wishing may make donations in Clyde’s memory to the Maine Veterans Home, 310 Cony Street, Augusta, ME 04330.
Arrangements under the direction and care of Dan & Scott’s Cremation & Funeral Service, 445 Waterville Road, Skowhegan, ME 04976.
CLARENCE SPAULDING JR.
WATERVILLE – Clarence E. Spaulding Jr., 78, passed away on Monday, November 4, 2019, following battling several severe health issues, at Northern Light Inland Hospital, in Waterville. Clarence was born the son of Clarence Sr. and Virginia Spaulding on October 31, 1941, in Caratunk.
Clarence was known for his quick and sarcastic humor. He had a seemingly endless knowledge of everything, an eccentric vocabulary and conversation manor. He would read the encyclopedia for fun, draw, and could tell you every random fact about every train to ever exist. He was a member of the clan Murray Scottish society, as well as the Wiscasset Narrow Gauge Railway.
Clarence was a salesman for many years for Morgan Lumber Company and worked several years as a salesman for L’Heureux Oil Company.
Clarence was predeceased by his parents, Clarence Sr. and Virginia Spaulding; son Greg Spaulding, son Scott Spaulding; and great grandchild Magnolia.
He is survived by his life partner, Vicki LaBrie; his sister Barbara J; eldest daughter Beverly Frost; son-in-law Everett Frost; son Brian Spaulding and daughter-in–law Pamela Spaulding, and his daughter-in-law Erica Spaulding; his grandchildren, Derek, Amber, Chellsye, Samantha, Jonathan, Ashley, Mary and Emma; great-grandchildren, Viola, Carter and Nathanial.
Arrangements are under the direction and care of Gallant Funeral Home, 10 Elm Street, Waterville.
An online guestbook may be signed and condolences expressed at www.gallantfh.com.
LT. COL. JOHN W. CLARK SR.
SIDNEY – Lt. Col. John Winston Clark Sr. (MSP Ret.), 74, died Thursday, October 31, 2019, at his home in Sidney. John was born in Gardiner on December 26, 1944, the third child of Walter A. and (Eva) Janet Clark.
He graduated from Gardiner Area High School in 1963 and received an A.S. degree in criminal justice and a B.S. degree in public administration from the University of Maine.
John graduated from the Maine State Police Academy in 1967 and was assigned to patrol the Damariscotta area of Troop D. He was promoted to corporal in 1973, and assigned to the traffic division at headquarters, in Augusta. He was promoted to sergeant in 1975, and assigned to chief of executive security for Governor James B. Longley. In 1979, he was promoted to lieutenant and became the commander of the traffic and safety division and also served as the liaison for the Bureau of State Police with the Maine Legislature. In 1983, he was promoted to Lt. Col., Deputy Chief of the Maine State Police. He served in that capacity for four years and retired in 1987.
In 1988, he became the executive vice president of the Maine Insurance Agents Association, in Augusta. He served in that capacity for 21 years, serving on several National Association Committees and was President of the National Independent Agents Association Executives in 2000/2001. He fully retired in September 2009.
He loved the outdoors and hunting and fishing in Argyle and Rangeley. He was a member of The Masons Hermon Lodge #32, in Gardiner, SAM, West Gardiner Rod and Gun Club, Rangeley, Guides and Sportsman’s Association, Arnold Trail Sportsman’s Association, NRA, AHOG, and actively supported the Maine Special Olympics for many years. He enjoyed his time spent with Peggy at their camp in Rangeley and riding their Harley-Davidson motorcycle; particularly their trips to South Dakota and Wyoming, and the many rides with friends in the AHOG Chapter and at the State HOG Rallies. He also loved to attend the many activities of his 13 grandchildren, which ranged from dance to hockey.
John was predeceased by his parents, and his brother, Herman F. Clark, and his sister, Janice Plaisted.
He is survived by his wife Peggy; his daughter, Angela Clark, of Gardiner; his son John Jr. and his wife Jill, and their four children, Kristen and her husband, Derick and their son Jacob and daughter Madeline, of Litchfield, Matthew and his fiancée, Morgan Carver, Joseph and Lillian, of West Gardiner, his youngest daughter Jenny Hickey and her husband Will, and their three sons, Nicholas Maschino, his fiancée, Sadie Gosse and their daughter MacKeil, Scott Hickey and his girlfriend, Libbie Williams, and Cody Hickey, his fiancée Mikaela Sleeper and their daughters, Delanie and Addison, all of West Gardiner; his stepson Benjamin Foster and his wife Karen, and their children Madison, Lily and Ben, of Waterville, and his stepson, Jared Foster and his wife Lisa, and their three children Jenessa, Jaxson and Easton, of Palmyra.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the AMVETS@National Service Foundation, PO Box 96175, Washington, DC 20090-613.
MARY C. GOTT
FAIRFIELD – Mary Catherine Gott, 77, passed away peacefully at home, following a brief illness, on Saturday, November 2, 2019. Born July 27, 1942, in New Haven, Connecticut, Mary was the daughter of Gerald and Muriel (Hill) Cremin.
She attended New Haven area schools, and moved to Richmond in 1976.
In the 1980s, Mary spent her workdays running the family fish market, Salt Waterville Seafood, in Fairfield. In the 1990s, they sold the market and Mary went to work at Marden’s, in Waterville. She retired from Marden’s in 2013.
Mary made friends everywhere she went and was known for being just as feisty and fun-loving, as she was generous and kindhearted. She loved going for motorcycle rides with George. They spent many summers at Abenaki Campground and at York County Campground. Mary was a member of the American Legion Auxiliary, Post #14, in Fairfield, and a longtime supporter of the Humane Society Waterville Area. Mary and George were longtime members of the Maine Academy of Country Music and enjoyed many Country Sunday’s with friends and family.
Mary was predeceased by her parents; her husband, George; her grandson Richard “RJ” Costa, of Vermont; and her brother, Jeremiah “Jay” Cremin, of Belchertown, Massachusetts.
She is survived by daughter Constance Costa of Branford, Connecticut; daughter Diane (Willis) Carter, of Minneola, Florida; son Norman (Kimberly) Ambrose, of Auburn; stepson Michael Gott, of Waterville; stepdaughter Debra (Dean) Billings, of Pittsfield; grandchildren James Ambrose, of New Britain, Connecticut, James Groves, Kristifer Groves, Dylan (Amber) Ambrose, and Justin Ambrose, of Maine; seven great-grandchildren.
Mary had requested the family forego a funeral and instead “throw (her) a party.” Family and friends are invited to Grover Hinkley American Legion Post #14, 86 Upper Main St, Fairfield, ME, on Saturday, November 23, from noon to six p.m., for live music and light refreshments.
An online guestbook may be signed, and memories shared at www.familyfirstfuneralhomes.com.
McKENZIE M. HAVER
WATERVILLE – McKenzie Meghan Haver, 20, from Waterville, passed away unexpectedly at Maine Mdical Center, in Portland, on Friday, November 4, 2019, from a Congenital Heart condition. Born May 4, 1999, in Belfast, she was the daughter of Michelle (Pearse) Kelley and Steven Haver. She graduated from Erskine Academy, in South China.
To her family she was Lulu and to everyone she was a fighter. Behind that sweet smile and quiet manner was a sarcastic, witty sense of humor that came out of nowhere and caused one to sit back and wonder what just happened and when it would happen next. She accepted and faced the challenges of her medical conditions, but refused to accept their limitations.Her biggest accomplishment was being a mother to her little boy, she loved every moment of it. He stole her heart and was her entire world.
McKenzie is survived by her mother and bonus dad Michelle and John Kelley; father Steven Haver; significant other Austin Ayotte; son Jaxon Ayotte; brother Justin Haverand sister-in-law Amber Fuller; sister Domonique Haver and brother-in-law Kyle Stetson; sister Kayleigh Haver; bonus siblings, Acadia, Kineo and Camden; nieces Hayley and Kamryn; nephew Aidyn; In-laws Patrick and Sharon Ayotte and Robert and Barbie Petkers; grandparents Paul and Alice PearseAnderson, Dakota Flagg and Laura and Ed Heroux.
A celebration of life will be held November 11, 2019, at noon, at Governor’s, in Waterville.
In lieu of flowers, the family is accepting donations to help pay for funeral expenses and for her young son, Jaxon. Donations can be made via: Michelle Kelley, PO Box 476, Gardiner, ME 04345, or Go Fund Me or in person at her celebration of life.
SARAH C. BEAN
SIDNEY – Sarah C. Bean, 92, of Sidney, passed away on Friday, November 8, 2019, following a brief illness. Sarah was born in Effingham, New Hampshire, on September 3, 1927, to Charles and Viola Clark.
Her father passed when Sarah was only eight years old and his death was a defining moment in her life, causing her to have great compassion for those who faced similar loss. She and her two siblings continued to live in her beloved home in Freedom, New Hampshire, until her teenage years when her mother married Merle Thompson and she moved to East Dixfield. After graduating from high school at Wilton Academy, she spent three years studying at Providence Bible Institute, in Providence, Rhode Island. At PBI, her strong faith was cemented as she trained to study and teach the Word of God.
Sarah married Charles E. Bean on September 10, 1948, and eagerly adjusted to life as a farmer’s wife. She became active at West Sidney Baptist Church, serving and teaching Sunday School, Daily Vacation Bible School, and Bible studies. Through all the days of her life, she continued teaching Scripture and most recently had an active Bible study in her home.
From the time she went to first grade, Sarah always wanted to be a teacher. She began working toward her teaching degree in 1966, taking a few credit hours at a time. Sarah began her teaching career on a provisional certificate and graduated from University of Maine in 1973 with a degree in Elementary Education. She taught at Mount Vernon Elementary School for 20 years, and after retiring, she taught grandchildren and great grandchildren at “Gramma’s School.”
She is survived by her four children, Edward Bean and wife Donna, of Sidney, Ruth Brendle and husband Dave, of Sanford, Florida, Calvin Bean and wife Penny, of Sidney, and Charlene and husband Howard, of Sutton, Massachusetts; 14 grandchildren, 27 great-grandchildren, as well as a sister-in law, Marion Bean, nieces, nephews, and cousins.
She was predeceased in death by her husband of 51 years, her brother, Robert Sullivan, and her sister, Cora Crockett.
Arrangements are in the care of Knowlton and Hewins Funeral Home, One Church Street, Augusta.
Memories, condolences, photos, and videos may be shared with the family on the obituary page of our website at www.familyfirstfuneralhomes.com.
In lieu of flowers, her family would welcome your written memories.
LUCINDA L. FRANKENFIELD
Lucinda Lee Frankenfield, 78, passed away on Sunday, November 10, 2019, following a long illness.
Lucinda (Cindy) was born on February 12, 1941, in Boston, Massachusetts, to Evelyn Byrd (Lee) and Harold Doe, Sr.
She attended Waterville schools as a child, Coburn Classical Institute and graduated from Winslow High School in 1960.
Cindy was a homemaker for a large part of her life and her family meant everything to her. She was a wonderful mother who showed her love in many caring ways. She enjoyed cooking and baking and was known for her special lemon-mint iced tea every summer. She hosted many dinners and family get togethers and enjoyed making the holidays special.
She was so very proud of her children and grandchildren and was always interested in all that was happening in their lives. You could not ask for a better grandmother and Mom.
Later in her life, she worked for several home health care organizations and took care of the needs of many elderly people. She had her own private clients as well, and enjoyed her work immensely. Cindy’s clients loved her as she took good care of them and truly cared for them. This career was a perfect choice for Cindy, as it was fulfilling and she could continue to nurture and care for others.
Cindy loved the Lord and enjoyed going to church and singing in the choir. She attended both China Baptist Church and the South China Community Church over the years. She instilled her love for God in her children and brought them to church at a young age.
She is survived by two daughters; Mary Ann Bolduc and husband Gary, of China, Liana Stanhope and husband Jeffrey, of Bangor, and son David Frankenfield and wife Jill, of Albion; grandchildren, Jacob Frankenfield and wife Sierra, Jonathan Stanhope, Nicholas Stanhope, and Allison Frankenfield.
She was predeceased by a sister, Nancy Lee Doe, and two brothers, Harold Doe Jr. and Randolph M. Doe.
There will be a celebration of Cindy’s life on November 16, 2019, at 11 a.m., at Knox Ridge Baptist Church, in Knox.
Please consider donations to the Dementia Society of America and the Alzheimer’s Association.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: AARP fighting for prescription drug cost reductions
To the editor:
On behalf of our 230,000 members, AARP Maine thanks Congressman Jared Golden for participating in our recent tele-town hall on prescription drug costs. Nearly 3,500 Mainers participated in the forum and many asked questions of Congressman Golden live during the call.
Much of the discussion focused on the latest news from Washington, including two bills which will likely be voted on soon.
Currently under consideration in the House of Representatives is HR 3, the Lower Drug Costs Now Act of 2019. Under HR 3, the Secretary of Health and Human Services would negotiate prices for at least 25 of the most expensive brand-name medicines. The bill would also cap out-of-pocket prescription drug costs for Medicare beneficiaries at $2,000 per year. In addition AARP is pushing for other improvements to Medicare such as coverage for dental, vision and hearing care.
In the Senate, we urge Senate leadership to bring the bipartisan Prescription Drug Pricing Reduction Act of 2019 to a floor vote this year. The bill would cap out-of-pocket costs for Medicare Part D beneficiaries and require drug manufacturers to provide a rebate to Medicare if the prices of their products increase faster than inflation.
AARP Maine is committed to working with our federal lawmakers to lower prescription drug costs. Too many Mainers of all ages struggle to afford the medications they need to stay healthy, and to even stay alive. It shouldn’t be that way. We cannot wait any longer for this to change, and urge our elected leaders to pass these bills.
Patricia Pinto
AARP Maine Volunteer State President, Portland
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: Government overreach removes our parental choice
To the editor:
This coming March at the polls we will have a chance to stop government overreach in Maine by voting YES on Question 1. Proponents of this bill will tell us parents still have a choice when it comes to making medical decisions for your child. What kind of choice is either homeschooling your child or forcing a medical procedure that you have seen cause them harm in the past? That is not a “choice.” It’s an ultimatum.
My yes vote on question 1 is not an “antivax” vote. I have 11-year-old twins. Both have been vaccinated. One was fine with vaccines and will continue to receive them. The other twin was not fine. In fact, she suffered serious adverse effects and is still dealing with those issues today. We as her parents, made the best medical decision for each child. As a result of LD 798, my daughter will be removed from school in 2021 for missing just one dose of one vaccine.
The choice to homeschool or make my daughter sick again is not a “choice” any parent should be forced to make, yet LD 798 does just that. As for single parents, it seems proponents don’t care about a single parent and sole bread winner for the family having to make this “choice.”
The government will never make a better medical decision than parents (who do not make these choices lightly or without a great deal of thought). Please vote Yes to reject government overreach so that ALL children of Maine can receive the education of their choice.
Ronda Snyder
Sidney
Tax relief payments coming to qualified homeowners
An Act to Return Funds to Maine Property Tax Payers requires the Maine Office of the State Treasurer (OST) to provide tax relief payments of no less than $100 to qualifying homesteads, when the Property Tax Relief Fund reaches a threshold of funding to support the payments. In 2019, this threshold will be met based on available funds divided by the number of homesteads net of expenses to administer the program. To read the law in its entirety, please click here.
State Treasurer Henry Beck has determined the fund to be at a level sufficient to trigger a payment for FY 2020. Property owners should contact their town office for assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q. Is this a new program?
A. Yes, this is a program that began in 2019 and is administered by the State Treasurer. This program was established by P.L. 2019 Chapter 448, as proposed in LD 1713 “An Act To Return Funds to Maine Property Tax Payers.” It is separate from previous and existing efforts to provide property tax relief such as revenue sharing, certain property tax exemptions and certain property tax credits.
Q. How is this program funded?
A. This program is funded by the Property Tax Relief Fund for Maine Residents. The Property Tax Relief Fund for Maine Residents consists of excess general fund revenues.
Q. Does a qualified taxpayer with a property valued at $20,000 receive a payment?
A. Yes, all qualified homestead exemption property taxpayers will receive the same payment.
Q. I work for a town or city. How should I send my list of homestead property owners to the Treasurer?
A. Our office has sent a request to each Municipal Tax Assessor with an attached template that will need to be completed and returned. If you do not have Excel, we will work directly with you to find a solution. TRIO Users will be provided an extract to use and pull the exact data we need. If you have not received the template, you can download that here. Please make sure the list is accurate.
Q. The money for this relief used to come to the municipality as an offset to taxes, is this not the case anymore?
A.This is a different program from the homestead exemption. The homestead exemption is simply the qualifier for the relief payment.
Q. How do we contact you?
A. You may call 207.624.7477 or Email: PropertyTaxRelief@maine.gov
Q. If a check was sent with information that is incorrect, who should be contacted?
A. If you are a recipient of a payment, please contact your Tax Assessor who will make a formal request to the Office of the State Treasurer to correct the recipient’s information. We will only reissue checks by request of the Tax Assessor who submitted the original name. Other examples of errors that can be potentially be corrected include:
- Name spelled incorrectly
- Mailing address incorrect
- Spouse or co-owner is deceased.
The Office of State Treasurer has discretion to approve or not approve the reissue of payments consistent with the intent of the law. The Office of the State Treasurer may require certain documentation before reissuing payment. We wish to be of assistance ask for the patience of taxpayers.
Q. Who qualifies for a homestead exemption?
A. For more information on this program, please review the FAQ here: https://www.maine.gov/revenue/faq/homestead_faq.html
Q. I submitted my application after April 1, 2019. Will I receive a payment?
A. No, only properties that qualified for the exemption on or before April 1, 2019, will receive a payment.
Q. When will I receive my payment?
A. Payments will be processed and mailed in the months of January and February.
Q. Have a question that has not been answered?
A. Please contact our office at PropertyTaxRelief@Maine.gov and we will respond as quickly as possible.
China TIF members get prelim preview of causeway project
by Mary Grow
At their Nov. 4 meeting, China TIF (Tax Increment Financing) Committee members got a preview of the proposed new design for the second phase of the causeway project, which will extend the bridge replacement work at the head of China Lake’s east basin.
Committee members also endorsed two requests for TIF funds that will be submitted to selectmen and, with their approval, to voters at the spring 2020 town business meeting.
Mark McCluskey, the engineer from A. E. Hodsdon, of Waterville, who works with the town, explained that because the bridge is higher than the culvert it replaced (to make room for kayakers to go under the road), the steeper shore needs erosion protection.
His design calls for stone retaining walls, riprap or both along the shore north and west of the bridge and on the south (lake) side between the bridge and the boat landing. Fishing platforms will still be included.
The north side of the bridge will have an ATV trail, the south side a sidewalk. The sidewalk surface material remains to be determined. There will be marked pedestrian crosswalks east and west of the bridge.
The current – and controversial – metal guardrails will be totally removed, McCluskey said, and wooden ones installed where needed.
In addition to streetlights provided by Central Maine Power Company, McCluskey proposes recessed light fixtures under the guardrail along the sidewalk.
The gravel parking area on the north side of the road opposite the boat landing is not slated for change, Town Manager Dennis Heath said.
McCluskey hopes to have a final plan before the end of the year. At least two state departments, Inland Fisheries and Wildlife and Environmental Protection, need to review and approve, he said. An Inland Fisheries spokesman told him work cannot start before July 1, 2020, to avoid disrupting nesting birds in the wetland north of the project area.
Heath proposed rearranging TIF money to add funds to the Causeway Project. He said that under TIF rules, moving money from one project to another requires a local public hearing and state approval. Later in the week, he reported that state officials recommended seeking voters’ approval for such changes, as China officials did in 2017.
As a related project, the state boat landing is to be rebuilt; it will be longer and have concrete on the lake bottom at the end of the ramp, where boat propellers currently create a hollow and a sandbank. Heath said the state will pay 50 percent of the cost of the boat landing work.
TIF Committee members would like to complete the causeway project in 2020, but are not sure there will be enough time. They expect the causeway will be closed part of the summer; perhaps, they said, one-lane traffic would sometimes be possible.
The two TIF funding requests endorsed at the Nov. 4 meeting, both by unanimous votes, were:
- For the Broadband Committee, $15,000 in the current fiscal year for a consultant to do a town-wide survey of broadband access. Heath said the Federal Communications Commission incorrectly believes 98 percent of China residents have broadband, a figure so high it makes the town ineligible for grants to expand access.
- For the China Lake Association, $57,500 for three projects: continuing LakeSmart shoreline run-off controls, contracting with a LakeSmart director to relieve volunteer Marie Michaud and continuing the Gravel Road Rehabilitation Project (GRRP) started this year.
The next TIF Committee meeting is scheduled for Monday evening, Dec. 2.
Eagle Scout candidate organizes work day
The brick pad, the picnic table and sign placard near the outlet stream. Front, from left to right, Kameron Rossignol, Kasen Kelley, Remy Pettengill, Ayden Newell, Caleb Knock. Back, Ben Lagasse, Aiden Pettengill, Hunter Praul, Kaiden Kelley, Michael Boostedt, Leaders Derek Rossignol, Darryl Praul and Ron Emery. Missing from photo Leaders Lee Pettengill and parents Keith Lagasse, Jonathan Knock and Grange member Bernie Welch (contributed photo)
by Bernie Welch
Member of the Vassalboro Grange
Photo by Ron Emery, Troop #479
There is something wonderful about being amongst volunteers. What better way than to be part of an Eagle Scout project that promotes community, conversation and education. The Vassalboro Historical Society and the Vassalboro Grange partnered with the Maine Rivers to create an opportunity for the talented troop #479, of China, and specifically Eagle Scout candidate, Ben LeGasse, with the thought of sharing a bit of Vassalboro Lore from the Historical Society and the Grange, plus providing a place to share the plan for an alewife introduction to China Lake. Ben and his father organized a work day on Saturday, October 19. They pre-planned and created a bench and sign placard for the north side of the Grange and also planned and placed a picnic table and sign placard at the Outlet Stream to provide respite for the fishermen, bird watchers and soon to be alewife tourists that promise to be more plentiful once the Maine rivers project is complete.
Ben and his father organized a work day on Saturday, October 19. They pre-planned and created a bench and sign placard for the north side of the Grange. (Contributed photo)
An eagle Scouts project is one that fills a need. The Eagle Scout Service Project, or simply Eagle Project, is the opportunity for a Boy Scout in the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) to demonstrate leadership of others while performing a project for the benefit of his community. This is the culmination of the Scout’s leadership training, and it requires a significant effort on his part.The project must benefit an organization other than the BSA, and it cannot be performed for an individual or a business or be commercial in nature. Completing an Eagle Project is a requirement in order for Boy Scouts to attain the Eagle Scout rank. Ben chose to organize his project to support the greater Vassalboro community. On the work day he involved his fellow scouts and their fathers. All Scouts actively participated in clearing the area and placing sign posts , the bench, the brick picnic table pad and the picnic table.
Ben also solicited and received tremendous support from Hannafords in South China, Fieldstone Quick stop, Lowes Home supply and, of course, parents and friends. The fathers of the scouts were also out in force providing guidance, institutional memory and wisdom when using hand tools. A ground wasp nest did not deter but did enliven the effort on the day of the event. Grange members provided food and information about the grange. Ben will share his project with the Vassalboro Historical Society and the Maine Rivers during future meetings. His discussion and question answer session at the last Friday Grange meeting was informational and a bit of fun.
Scouting in our area is a hidden community gem. Young people inspire community members to think about the power of doing something for the benefit of others. Yes, there is something wonderful about being volunteers. And you know what , they can be us!
Ben, 17, is a senior at Erskine Academy, in South China, and the son of Keith and Kristie LaGasse, of Windsor.
Mourners pay tribute to local community anchor
David Herard, China rescue chief.
David Herard remembered as dedicated firefighter, family man and marine
by Ron Maxwell
This space is not large enough for the story of David Herard. During his remembrance at the China Dine-ah, I talked with daughters, sons-in-law, family, friends and colleagues and was given a glimpse into the life of a man who made his life’s work looking after people, both those he knew and those he had never met. His dedicated care of the town of China, his country and his family shone through every conversation I had, as did his obvious love of duty and honor for their own sake.
David in his youth.
David was a straight shooter and you always knew just where you stood with him. David looked like a “grumpy old Marine” (a phrase used with love by one of his mentees that I talked with) but had a heart of gold behind that exterior. David hated being praised and avoided accolades. I can’t help but feel that if he were reading this he would not enjoy it, but as it is true I will tell the story.
David and his childhood best friend played Cowboys and Indians as kids growing up in Waterville, and both volunteered for tours in Vietnam where they served our country well. David’s commitment showed in his volunteering for a second tour in his difficult job of being a tunnel rat, a mission that required entering small tunnels to underground networks that were filled with enemy combatants and booby traps. I read online that the tunnel rats were the unsung heroes of the Vietnam War and thinking about the process sheds light on David’s determination to serve others even when the job was difficult. It was in those tunnels, during his second tour, that a mortar nearly killed David. He saw a brilliantly lit place and a river and heard the voices of people on the other side. But a hand on his shoulder told him he had more to do and then he woke hearing the medic who was pounding on his chest (and saving his life), ordering “Marine, you do not have permission to die yet!”
The love David’s family showed in their eyes as stories were told of how he looked after them. A daughter said, that if they had had problems, they never worried long. David made sure of it. He provided for them, while he was quietly patching his own clothes. He gave everything even if it left him with no time, no matter what. He was content to look after everyone else without recognition. It was this love that I saw when I first met David, when my youngest son Peter and I came to adopt two kittens a year ago. His love was plain to me, in the way he looked at his daughter and granddaughter, it was clear that he was looking out for them and after them.
It was to this daughter his last words were “You are my anchor,” and then she told me “But he was mine.” It was to this granddaughter his last words were “You’re a pretty girl and I love you.” He was good with his grandchildren and had big expectations for them to be well-rounded and respectable. I am sure he said farewell to his whole family the same way as the quoted words above: using direct, carefully chosen words of love as one last way to care for them.
But it wasn’t just his own family he looked after, he extended that service to his town. He started public service with the Weeks Mills fire department, but transitioned to their safety officer (leading trainings and supporting crews) and then became an EMT for the town of China area.
David Herard’s service jacket. (photo by Ron Maxwell)
David was an EMT for about 10 years, starting with his training when he was in his 60s and culminated in his being elected rescue chief. Anecdotal reports from his colleagues range from 95 – 100 percent response to rescue calls, with one volunteer telling me how he looked at the call sheets and regularly the number 901 (the chief’s number, David’s number) appeared, documenting David’s presence at a scene. He had a good head on his shoulders, a calm demeanor, and a way that reached the people he was helping that gave them a peace and a confidence in his care. He was dependable, always the first to go, going all the time, always there and willing to help. He also mentored newer members to his work by walking them through their calls and advising them.
More than once, as I talked to the people he loved, I found myself hoping that I would be seen by my family and community as he was by his. These people who shared with me their love of David Herard understood and respected him in the way that I have always hoped I would be understood and remembered. I am a better man because I heard his story and have his example to follow. His service to them was quiet and constant and dependable and he didn’t want recognition for his work. They all saw and loved him for it. This work ethic, this love for family and his community, and this selfless dedication are to be commended and emulated. His is an example that is heroic. Thank you for your service, David.
An interment will take place on Friday, November 15, at 10 a.m., at the Wall, at the Veterans Cemetery, on Civic Center Dr. (Rte. 27), just off I-95 Belgrade Exit,. All who plan to attend should arrive by 9:45 a.m. There will be fire department and sheriff’s department escort.
FOR YOUR HEALTH – Ask The Doctor: Early Morning Challenges With ADHD
(NAPSI)—ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder defined by impairing levels of inattention, disorganization, and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity. For people with ADHD, these behaviors are more severe, occur more often, and interfere with or reduce the quality of how they function socially, at school, or in a job.
Does your child with ADHD struggle in the morning?
Does your child with ADHD barely complete basic daily tasks, such as getting dressed, brushing teeth or simply eating breakfast? If so, you are not alone. In a survey of 200 parents with children diagnosed with ADHD, more than 90 percent felt that ADHD symptoms negatively impacted their early morning routine.
For families with children affected by ADHD, the early morning routine is challenging at best, chaotic at worst. Problems can impact every member of the family and set a negative tone for the rest the day. Dr. Ann Childress, a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist at Center for Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, Inc. has many patients—and families—who struggle every morning simply to get out the door. Here are some of the most common questions she receives from these families—and her responses.
Why does my child with ADHD have so much difficulty in the morning?
The early morning routine can be especially challenging for people with ADHD. Getting ready for the day requires ongoing focus and depends upon our ability to remember and manage multi-step information, a capacity psychologists call working memory. Both children and adults with ADHD struggle with deficits in focus and/or working memory.
Getting ready for the day also requires us to finish many complex activities in a short time, such as completing a hygiene routine, making and eating breakfast, or packing a backpack, all before the school bus pulls up or the car pool arrives. Research shows that, when compared with typical peers, people with ADHD find it harder to gauge the passage of time—and thus find it more difficult to complete these early morning activities on time.
My child takes medication for ADHD that usually works. Why are mornings still so hard?
For individuals who rely on a stimulant medication to help them during the day, the early morning can still represent an ADHD blind spot. What does this mean? Most stimulant medications are taken in the morning with breakfast and they may take some time to work (anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours).6 Thus ADHD patients will not necessarily experience the benefits of ordinary stimulant medication in the early morning hours, making the morning routine one of the most difficult parts of the day for the patient-and for his or her loved ones.
My entire family has been negatively affected by one member’s early morning ADHD symptoms. What can I do to help?
Parents and caregivers can use behavioral strategies to improve specific behaviors that may prevent children from getting ready in the morning. Tactics to help children complete morning activities may include the following, either alone or in combination:
- Setting multiple alarms to encourage timely completion of different tasks
- Using behavior charts and incentive programs
- Creating and using sequencing charts to outline the steps of critical activities
- Utilizing checklists.
Some families choose to alter how they administer stimulant medications. In these cases, one parent or caregiver will wake and dose the child in the wee hours, approximately two hours prior to the family’s usual wakeup time. Next, the parent will encourage the child to go back to sleep, hoping the medication will take effect before breakfast.7 However, this routine often proves disruptive for both parent and child, both of whom may have difficulty returning to sleep.?
If you think ADHD has an impact on your mornings, consider taking a quiz at theADHDmorningquiz.com. The interactive quiz helps identify ADHD symptoms that make the morning routine a challenge. You’ll also be given access to a Doctor Discussion Guide to help start the conversation about mornings with ADHD.
Tips for Managing ADHD in the Morning
- Be a morning realist. Setting unrealistic goals can set you up for failure. Being realistic about the early morning routine and adding a little more time to get things done will benefit the entire family.
- Alarms aren’t just for waking up. Set ‘as you go’ alarms to make sure you’re not running overtime on each task. Remember to be practical about how long things may take.
Talking to Your Doctor
Once you’ve made the appointment with your doctor, start writing down what you want to discuss about your mornings with ADHD. Here are some suggestions from the Doctor Discussion Guide that you’ll find when you take theADHDmorningquiz.com:
- Describe any challenges during the early morning routine.
- How do these difficulties affect the rest of the day?
- What specific ADHD symptoms are a problem in the early morning?
- What actions have you taken to try to make mornings go more smoothly? How have those helped (if at all)?
- Would it be helpful to have an ADHD medication that works when you wake up?
To learn more about morning challenges with ADHD, please visit www.adhdmorning.com.