THE MONEY MINUTE – Christmas gift idea: give them an experience

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

Wow. Look at all the advertising. Look at all the products for sale. Look at all the money being spent on stuff—stuff that will soon be obsolete, no longer the “next-best-thing,” and most likely, thrown away, worn out, or placed on a shelf or in a box to sit in the dark for years.

Millennials (I am one of them), as annoying as we can be to some older generations, have reminded the world of something important: There is more value in memories from life experiences than can be found in most tangible products.

In 1993, my grandparents took my mother, my sister, and myself to Disney World, Epcot, Sea World, A Hawaiian Luau, and other major attractions in Orlando. We rented a small silver car. We stayed at Summerfield Suites in Buena Vista. The breakfast buffet at the resort had a cereal lineup that made me very excited (I love my cereals). We sat together for every meal. I did cannon balls into the pool. So did my grandfather, which made him even cooler in my book. I tried wrestling with my sister in the pool. She wasn’t a fan of that. My grandfather got on stage at the Luau in front of hundreds of people and danced in a way that left us all in stitches. We watched movies together on the planes. We did it all.

My family has reminisced about these moments many times, and each time we do, we smile, we laugh, and we comment how we wish we could go back and do it all over again.

To me, those memories are the best gifts in the world. I carry them with me every day. They will never be put on a shelf. They will never become obsolete. They will always be the “best-thing.”

This year, regardless of your budget, consider giving experiences. Some do not cost a dime. Be creative in the experiences you create. More than anything, the energy behind your intent will determine how the experience is well, experienced.

Here is what I promise: You can give the gift of a lifetime without spending a penny.

See you all next month.

Jac Arbour CFP®, ChFC®

Jac Arbour is the President of J.M. Arbour Wealth Management and can be reached at 207-248-6767. Investment advisory services are offered through Foundations Investment Advisors, LLC, an SEC registered investment adviser.

Knights of Columbus change the colors at Bar Harbor Bank and Trust

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Taking down and changing the flag at the Bar Harbor Bank and Trust, in South China, are Knights of Columbus District Master Miles Brookes and District Master Keith Richardson. (Contributed photo)

by Keith Richardson

Have you ever walked through your town, and seen something which “needed fixing,” and wished you could do something?

This question applies to groups, as well as to individuals. The Knights of Columbus is such a group; they see things and offer to help.

The Knights of Columbus is a Catholic, men’s, family, service organization. It was founded in 1882, and has grown to almost two million members, worldwide. It provides services in four program areas: Faith, Family, Life, and Community. It aspires to exemplify, or act out, its four core Principles: Charity, Unity, Fraternity, and Patriotism. The Principle of Patriotism is specifically designated to the Fourth Degree, the highest level of Knighthood within the Order.

Final honors for retired Colors.

Going back to the first question, as it pertains to Patriotism, we know that many people and businesses will have an American flag displayed at their home, or places of business. Through no fault of their own, over time, these flags will show signs of wear-and-tear. That is where organizations, such as the Knights of Columbus, come into play. Through a Fourth Degree program called “Restoring Pride: One Flag at a Time,” they offer to replace faded, worn-out flags, at no cost to the owner.

“The flag represents a living country and is itself considered a living thing. The flag, when it is in such condition that it is no longer a fitting emblem for display, should be destroyed in a dignified way, preferably by burning.” This is a direct quote from the U.S. Flag Code.

On Wednesday, October 23, 2019, the flag was replaced at a local business in South China: Bar Harbor Bank and Trust. After discussions, and with the permission of the bank, the Fourth Degree of the District of Maine, held a ceremony at the South China branch. The old, faded, and tattered flag was replaced with a new flag in a respectful ceremony. The new flag had been previously flown over the United States Capitol Building, at the request of Senator Susan Collins, for the specific programs of Abnaki Assembly, Knights of Columbus, Augusta.

Participating in the ceremony were: Sir Knight Miles Brookes, Gardiner, District Master for Maine; Sir Knight Keith Richardson, South China, District Marshal for Maine; Ashley Perry; Fawn Finley; and Courtney Bonsant.

Sheepscot chorus to perform in Boothbay Harbor

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Sheepscot Valley Chorus celebrates its 39th season with a “Christmas Pops!” concert on Sunday, December 8, at 3 p.m., at the Boothbay Harbor Congregational Church. Led by artistic director Linda Blanchard and accompanist Sean Fleming, the concert will feature Felix Mendelssohn’s brilliant Magnificat setting, the Magnificat in D. The concert will also include several jazzy arrangements of hit tunes such as “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year,” “The Grinch Who Stole Christmas,” “The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire),” “I’ll Be Home for Christmas,” and more! The vocal talents of soprano Mary Sullivan, alto Jazmin DeRice, tenors Jesse Wakeman and David Myers, Jr., and bass John David Adams will be featured in solos, duets, and trios, and a jazz combo will accompany the chorus on several numbers.

In the spirit of Christmas giving, Sheepscot Chorus asks concert attendees to bring a canned or boxed food item and/or a monetary donation for the Boothbay Region Food Pantry.

SCORES & OUTDOORS: Cardinals brighten the landscape wherever they reside

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Male, left, and female cardinal

Symbolize family life and good family relation

Roland D. Halleeby Roland D. Hallee

It seems this time of year people see more northern cardinals than any other time of the year. I know my wife and I see them year round at our home, visiting our feeders on a regular basis.

In picture postcards and greeting cards, you usually see them in a winter setting, especially around Christmas time. I have two such photos hanging on the walls of my TV room at home.

Northern Cardinals do not migrate, so they brighten the landscape wherever they reside. As a result of not migrating, they will live their entire lives within a mile or two of where they were born.

Few birds are so well loved as the Northern Cardinal. Even the female stands out with its red accents on brown. Also, unlike other bird species, the male and female cardinals both sing. Since the cardinal doesn’t appear to need much sleep, you may hear them singing in the morning well before sunrise.

Actually, besides gracing us with the beauty of its red feathers, those plumes serve a very important service to the cardinals. They keep the cardinal warm during the winter, helping the birds to survive the coldest of seasons. Seeing them in winter may help you to regain some of your personal strength, considering what that little bird is enduring during the winter. Cardinals symbolize family life and good family relations.

Some of our readers have reported that cardinals will come to the feeders at their windows, and peck against the glass. Well, males can be aggressive when defending their territory, and they frequently attack other males who intrude. This tendency sometimes leads cardinals to fly into glass windows, when they charge an “intruder” that is really their own reflection.

During the mating season, which begins in March, the males are so hot-blooded, that although they breed near birds of other species, they will never allow one of their own kind to set up housekeeping in their territory. A male cardinal can be seen frequently following another from bush to bush, emitting a note of anger, and diving aggressively towards the trespasser.

You can tell what its emotional state is by looking at its crest. If the bird is calm, the crest will lay flat, and if it is excited, the crest will lift tall and peaked.

Once he is successful in driving out the intruder, he will perch himself in his favorite tree and pour out an unmistakeable song of victory and exultation.

Cardinals are good parents. The male cardinal shares in the duties of parenthood with his mate, feeding and caring for the mother during and after incubation. He will protect his family until they are able to safely leave the nest. Young cardinals frequently follow their parents on the ground for several days after leaving the nest, and will remain until they are able to fend for themselves. During this period of caring for its mate, the male will feed the female seeds, and to the common observer, they appear to be kissing.

An interesting note about the male is that during this period, he has has the ability to change his colors to a duller shade of brown and will look more like the female. This is a camouflage to help fulfill his duties as a dedicated parent.

Cardinals will usually be parents to 3 – 4 eggs. The incubation period is 12-13 days, and the young will leave the nest about 9 – 11 days after hatching. The cardinal’s expected life span is up to 15 years.

The cardinal is a seed eater with a strong bill. He also likes fruits, small berries and insects. Towards autumn they frequently go to the tops of tall trees in search of grapes and berries. Cardinals tend to be as fond of pulpy fruits as they are of the seeds of corn and grasses. They also eat a variety of weed seeds and insects that can be harmful to humans.

The northern cardinal is abundant and widespread. It has expanded its range over the last century and the current numbers remain stable. The bird actually benefits from the growth of cities, with so many bird feeders, that they have been thriving and increasing in population since the 18th century.

It is the official bird of seven states, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, North Carolina, Ohio, Virginia and West Virginia.

The cardinal got its name when colonists arrived in North America, because the male’s red crest reminded them of a Catholic cardinal’s biretta (headgear).

Is a cardinal hanging around your house? Don’t worry. According to folklore, a cardinal is a representative of a loved one who has passed. When you see one, it means they are visiting you. They usually show up when you most need them or miss them. They also make an appearance during times of celebration, as well as despair, to let you know they will always be with you.

Erecting bird feeders is the only way to get them to stay around. It is illegal to own a cardinal as a pet or to kill one. They are government-protected wild bird species and protected pursuant to the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918.

So, observe them, love them, but leave them to their own world. Should you come across an injured cardinal, it is best to contact an avian rehabilitator in your area.

Roland’s trivia question of the week:

Which NFL team has relocated three times from its original city?

Answer can be found here.

Roland’s Trivia Question for Thursday, December 5, 2019

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Which NFL team has relocated three times from its original city?

Answer:

The Oakland Raiders relocated to Los Angeles, then moved back to Oakland, and will move to Las Vegas next season.

LEGAL NOTICES for Thursday, December 5, 2019

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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 November 28, 2019

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.

2019-320 – Estate of THOMAS H. MOORE, III, late of Bingham, Me deceased. Jane Lawton Potelle, 632 Ivy Street, Glendale, CA 91203 appointed Personal Representative.

2019-354 – Estate of FRANK K. BENNETT, late of Fairfield, Me deceased. Rhonda Robinson, 36 Nyes Corner Dr., Fairfield, Me 04937 appointed Personal Representative.

2019-364 – Estate of ROBERT S. CURTIS, late of Fairfield, ME deceased. Elaine S. Philbrook, 32 13th Fire Road, China, ME 04358 appointed Personal Representative.

2019-371 – Estate of ANITA N. MULLEN, late of Norridgewock, Me deceased. Ninette C. Dubois, 171 High Street, Oakland, Me 04963 appointed Personal Representative.

2019-372 – Estate of FABIA CHANDLER, late of Athens, Me deceased. Joseph K. Chandler, 344 Coffee County Club Road, Hortense, GA 31543 and Jennifer Luarent, 149 Stratham Heights Road, Stratham, NH 03885 appointed Co-Personal Representatives.

2019-376 – Estate of LOUIS H. MORONG, late of Ripley, Me deceased. Virginia J. Morong, 71 McCarthy Street, Manchester, NH 03104 appointed Personal Representative.

To be published on November 28, & December 5, 2019.
Dated: November 25, 2019 /s/ Victoria Hatch,
Register of Probate
(12/5)

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 December 11, 2019. 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.

2019-365 – Estate of TAYLOR SIERRA STAPLES. Petition for Change of Name (Adult) filed by Taylor Sierra Staples, 60 North Ave., Apt 4, Skowhegan, Me 04976 requesting name be changed to Taylor Keith Staples for reasons set forth therein.

Dated: November 25, 2019. /s/ Victoria Hatch,
Register of Probate
(12/5)

STATE OF MAINE
PROBATE COURT
SOMERSET, SS
NOTICE TO HEIRS

Estate of FRANK K. BENNETT

DOCKET NO. 2019-354

It appearing that the following heirs of FRANK K. BENNETT, as listed in an Application for Informal Appointment of Personal Representative are of unknown address as listed below:

Donna Bennett, address unknown, Bonnie Bennett, address unknown,

Mike Bennett, address unknown, Timothy Bennett, address unknown

Bruce Bennett, 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 to be November 28, 2019.

Name and address of the Personal Representative: Rhonda L. Robinson, 36 Nyes Corner Dr. Fairfield, Me 04937

Dated: November 25, 2019.
/s/ Victoria Hatch
Register of Probate
(12/5)

Obituaries for Thursday, December 5, 2019

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DOUGLAS E. NIEDT

WATERVILLE – Douglas Edward Niedt, 58, of Waterville, unexpectedly passed away on Friday November 1, 2019. Douglas was born in Oakland, California, December 15, 1960, to Edward Richard Niedt and Paula Suzanne (Rawlings).

Douglas attended San Lorenzo High and eventually landed a job at a local printing company before later joining the U.S. Navy.

During his time in the military, Douglas primarily specialized in aviation fuels maintenance and navy law enforcement and received multiple awards including the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal. He was especially proud of volunteer work performed while stationed abroad.

Douglas enjoyed helping others and in his spare time he sometimes enjoyed working on cars.

Douglas is survived by his wife Hafida; son, Dustin; father, Edward; mother, Paula; his uncle, Jim; sisters, Leslie, Kim, Heidi and Christy; many nieces and nephews; his wife’s family.

Arrangements are under the direction and care of Gallant Funeral Home, 10 Elm Street, Waterville. An online guestbook may be signed, condolences and memories shared at www.gallantfh.com.

DONALD G. O’KEEFE

NORTH VASSALBORO – Donald G. O’Keefe, 92, passed away on Saturday, November, 2, 2019, at Maine Medical Center, Portland. He was born on August 11, 1927, in North Vassalboro, the son of William Francis and Adelaide Marie (Perry) O’Keefe.

He was married for 71 years to the former Betty Philbrick, of Augusta.

He attended North Vassalboro School and graduated from Winslow High School, class of 1944, where he played football, baseball and basketball. He loved sports and was a big fan of the Boston Red Sox and the New England Patriots. He worked in various mills, American Woolen, in North Vassalboro. A textile mill in Fairfield, New Departure, in Connecticut, Ladd Paper and Horizon Foods, in Fairfield.

He was predeceased by four brothers, William Jr., Raymond, Cloronce, Ronald and sister, Marjorie.

Donald leaves, his wife Betty, a daughter Jeannie O’Keefe; a son Tommy O’Keefe and grandson Ryan O’Keefe, all of North Vassalboro; two nephews, Raymond O’Keefe and wife Nancy, of Florida, Michael O’Keefe, of Virginia; two nieces, Patricia O’Keefe, of Winslow, and Bridget and husband Ron Condon, of Brunswick.

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

SHIRLEY A. BOURGET

WINSLOW – Shirley A. (Coleman) Bourget passed away peacefully on Thursday, November 7, 2019, following a long battle with Dementia.

Shirley was originally from Sacramento, California, and moved to the Winslow and Augusta area 50 years ago. She worked at Hathaway Shirt Factory and Walmart, both in Waterville, but her full commitment was being a homemaker and loving mother. Shirley took pride in her heritage of Native American (Cherokee).

She enjoyed her dog, Maxwell, her three cats, crafting, and family times.

She was predeceased by her parents, Sam and Gertrude.

Shirley will be missed by her children, Danny and his partner, Marlene, Jack, Al Jr., Jeff and his partner, Kathy, Ken and his wife, Amy, and her daughter and caretaker, Terrie and her partner, Greg; her sister, Norma; her grandchildren, Timothy and his wife, Serena, John Jr., Kurt and his wife, Ashley, Felicia, MacKenzie, Alli, Abbi, Allan, Evan, Natalie, Dustin, Thomas, and Joseph; her great-grandchildren, Caleb, Lucas, Brooklynn, Selina, Amiah, Aubrie, Kianna, and Emric; extended family, Paige, Keron, Samantha, Nicholas, Bridgett, and Alfred Sr.; her friend, Sandy; many nieces and other extended family members.

A celebration of Shirley’s life with visiting hours will be from 1 to 3 p.m. on Saturday, December 14, at Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 107 Main St., Fairfield. A gathering of family and friends will follow at the Fairfield American Legion from 3 to 5 p.m.

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

MILDRED SABATINE

WHITEFIELD – Mildred Sabatine, 83, passed away on Thursday, November 7, 2019, following a courageous battle with cancer. Mildred was born in Hatboro, Pennsylvania, to Lydia and Fritz Schuh.

She attended Kutztown University where she graduated with a degree in elementary education. While at Kutztown she met Onofrio “Nerf” Sabatine. They married on August 24, 1957.

Millie and Nerf built their first home on Old Sleepy Hollow Road in Pocantico Hill, New York, where they raised their three children Lisa, Paul, and Nicholas. While in New York their organic farm included produce, livestock, and Millie’s first attempts at cheese making. Their success as farmers awarded them billing on the cover page of the fall 1970 issue of Organic Gardening Magazine.

In 1976 Millie and her family relocated to their 90-acre farm in Whitefield. There she perfected the craft of mozzarella, provolone, and parmesan cheese making from milk produced on the farm. Over the next 15 years Millie’s cheese was marketed at the Damariscotta Farmer’s Market, Yellow Front Grocery Store, and Rising Tide Whole Foods, in addition to drop in customers at the farm. During her cheese making career Millie was interviewed and highlighted in the local press, and was once the subject of Cliff Reynolds’s People Places and Things. Millie and Nerf were pioneers in the “farm to table” life style.

Throughout her life Millie was known for her love of swimming, her competitive spirit, her flower gardens, love of show tunes, Monday trips to Reny’s and the Gardiner Library, and her love of family gatherings.

Millie is survived by her husband of 62 years; her children, Lisa and Nicholas Sabatine; daughter-in-law. Donna Sabatine; five grandchildren, Kelsea, Kate, and Kaleb Bridgham, and Sam and Henry Sabatine.

She was predeceased by her son, Paul, on Dec. 1, 2016.

Memories and condolences may be shared @ www.directcremationofmaine.com.

In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to the Gardiner Public Library, 151 Water St., Gardiner, ME 04345, or the Sussman Hospice House, 40 Anchor Drive, Rockport, ME 04856.

SHIRLEYANNE RATAJCZAK-LEAMAN

WATERVILLE – Shirleyanne Ratajczak-Leaman, 72, passed away on Friday, November 8, 2019. She had been in hospice care at Glennridge Comfort Care, in Augusta, for five days at the end of 10 years of breast cancer. For this period of time she was symptom free of the affliction. She passed peacefully in her sleep, her husband Richard was by her side. Shirleyanne was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, March 29, 1947.

She graduated from Germantown High School and upon moving to Maine attended the University of Maine, Orono, and the University of Maine, Farmington, where she took her masters degree in art history. She taught art at Nokomis High School, in Newport.

Shirleyanne moved to Waterville some 40 years ago and bought a home on Colonial Street, she had been married to Richard Ratajczak-Leaman for 34 years. They have two sons, Michael, 41, of Ringoes, New Jersey, and Richard, 32, who lives in Waterville.

She was an accomplished artist, fabricating hanging weavings that incorporated mixed materials often added by onlookers. She loved gardening and cooking. One month before her death Shirleyanne and her son, Richard, took a motor trip to visit her brother, Stephen Ratajczak, from Virginia Beach, and her niece Carla Mutone, of Chesapeake, Virginia. She has a brother, Donald Ratajczak, who lives in Atlanta, Georgia.

ROBERT A. HATCH

UNITY – Robert A. Hatch, 72, died unexpectedly Thursday, November 14, 2019, at a Waterville Hospital. He was born October 2, 1947, in Skowhegan, the son of Lloyd W. and Thelma (Whitney) Hatch.

Robert graduated from high school in 1966 and immediately joined the U.S. Marine Corps serving for three years.

When he returned from the service he worked as a dairy farmer at the job he loved the most, the Robert Elwell Farm, in Unity, for 30 years.

He enjoyed watching the New England Patriots, and old black and white cowboy movies.

Robert is survived by his mother, Thelma Hubbard, of Palmyra; four sons, Eric Hatch and his wife Jamie, of Dixmont, William Hatch and significant other Melissa Braley, of Dixmont, Matthew Hatch and his significant other Michelle Braley, of Dixmont, and Robert A. Hatch II, of Plymouth; a brother, Richard Hatch and his wife Diane, of Florida; a sister, Michelle MacManus and husband Leonard, of New Brunswick, Canada. He is also survived by the mother of his children, Diana Stewart; 11 grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his father, Lloyd Hatch; sister, Gloria, Hatch; his stepfather, John Hubbard; and two stepbrothers.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Brown Funeral Home, 34 High St., Newport.

To sign an online guest book and leave written condolences please visit: www.PhilipBrownFuneralHome.com

LINDA G. HARDING

ALBION – Linda Gloria (Pooler) Harding, 73, passed away Monday, November 18, 2019, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Augusta. She was born December 22, 1945, in Waterville, the daughter of Daniel B. and Alice G. (Butler) Pooler.

She attended the schools of Waterville and graduated from Waterville High School in 1964. On November 26, 1974, she married Neal Harding, in Waterville.

Linda was employed for many years at the Muskie Center, in Waterville, as a secretary, then as a certified nurse’s aide at Lakewood Manor Nursing Home, in Waterville, and the Augusta Mental Institute, in Augusta. She was a member of the Albion Jehovah’s Witnesses Hall. She will be dearly remembered for her unwavering faith in Jehovah and her joy in sharing the good news from the Bible with others. Linda enjoyed horses, riding, and going to auctions and yard sales.

Linda is survived by her husband of 44 years, Neal Harding, of Albion; son, Daniel B. Doucette; grandson, Jonathan Doucette; two sisters, Donna J. (Pooler) Mantin and husband Dennis, and Majorie A. (Pooler) Handly and husband Craig; brother, Daniel B. Pooler.

She was predeceased by her son, Ronald P.J. Doucette; parents; two sisters, Pamela (Pooler) Pratt and Nance (Pooler) Hewins.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, December 7, 2019, at 1 p.m., at the Albion Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, Route 137/9, in Albion.

In lieu of flowers, friends wishing may make donations in Linda’s memory to the Albion Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses.

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

BARBARA A. MESERVIE

FAIRFIELD – Barbara A. Meservie, 56, passed away unexpectedly in her home, on Tuesday, November 19, 2019. She was born on November 2, 1963, in Waterville, the daughter of Gloria A. Robinson and the late Alan A. Sabins, of Fairfield.

She attended Lawrence High School, in Fairfield, graduating with the class of 1983.

After she finished high school, she married her high school sweetheart, Walter L. Meservie, and they raised two children. Following his passing at an early age, she raised them on her own for several years.

Barbara enjoyed many things; helping people out when she could. She enjoyed working in the food pantry, doing crafts, going camping, and fishing. She loved being a firekeeper at pow-wow’s (Native American Gatherings), and loved to go on walks in nature, but her most favorite thing of all was spending time with her family and having big cook outs.

She was predeceased by Walter L. Meservie, her husband of ten years; and her father, Alan A. Sabins.

Barbara is survived by her mother, Gloria A Robinson; her daughter, Barbara Ann and her spouse, Conrad Edwards Jr. and their three boys; her son, Walter L Meservie and his wife, Amy and their four children; two brothers, Alan (Buddy) Sabins and his companion, and James (Jimmy) Sabins and his wife and their two children; a son-in-law, Derrick Berry; her native walk beside of seven years, John Gray; along with her many uncles and aunts; nieces and nephews.

Visiting hours will be from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. on Friday, November 29 at Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 107 Main St., Fairfield. Burial will take place in the spring.

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

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

ADELBERT M. CARNEY

SOUTH CHINA – Adelbert M., a.k.a. “Del,” Carney, 98, of Route 3, South China, died Thursday, November 21, 2019, at VA Maine Healthcare Center, at Togus, following a brief illness. He was born in Pownal, on February 3, 1921, the son of Francis Carney and Edith (Reed) Carney.

Mr. Carney served honorably in the U.S. Army during World War II.

Prior to his retirement in 1989, he was employed as maintenance and operations foreman for the General Services Administration for 34 years.

Mr. Carney was a member of St. Michael Parish and Maine Antique Tractor Club.

His wife, Jacqueline (Beaulieu) Carney, predeceased him on September 4, 2015. He was also preceded in death by two sisters, Marie Potrepka and Jennie Sharp; four brothers: Calvin Carney, William Carney, Charles Carney and Couver Carney; two sons, Adelbert “Sonny” Carney and Arthur Carney, and one grandchild, Jeffery Carney.

He is survived by five grandchildren: Dennis, Scott, Michael, Jean and Kimberly; six great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

Family and friends may visit from 6-8 p.m., on Friday, November 29, at Plummer Funeral Home, 16 Pleasant St., Augusta, Maine, where a funeral service will be held 10 a.m., Saturday, November 30, 2019. Burial will be in Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Mt. Vernon Road, Augusta, at a later date.

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

PATRICK J. FLEMING

OAKLAND – Patrick J. Fleming, retired Colonel of the Maine State Police, 56, of Oakland, passed away Friday, November 22, 2019. He was born in Lewiston, February 13, 1963, the son of William P. and Alice (Malloy) Fleming.

He grew up in Auburn and Hampden.

He graduated from Hampden Academy in 1981. Following high school, he attended Brandeis University, in Waltham, Massachusetts. Patrick joined the Maine State Police in 1984, and served honorably until his retirement as colonel in 2011. During his career as a trooper, he accomplished numerous career, and personal goals. He obtained associate, and bachelor’s degrees from the University of Maine at Augusta. As well as a master’s in business administration from Thomas College, in Waterville, in 2012. Following his career with the State Police, Patrick went on to become the director of the Gambling Control Board. Where he worked until his retirement in 2016.

In addition to his career of being a public servant to the state of Maine, he was well known for his coaching abilities, athletic competitiveness, commitment to his family, and sense of humor. Throughout his life, Pat enjoyed coaching his sons in multiple sports. When he wasn’t coaching them, he and Norleen enjoyed supporting them, the remainder of their athletic careers including following them to games in and out of state.

Pat and Norleen lived in Fairfield for 30 years, before moving to their cottage after retirement. Pat was a strong supporter of family, friends, and colleagues. He was the logistics guy, planning family trips and events. The go-to person for answers, and sound reasoning, and a role model on and off the basketball court. His quick wit and humor were always evident. He was a loving husband, good dad; coach and he’ll be deeply missed.

Patrick was predeceased by his father; grandparents; and in-laws.

He is survived by his wife of 31 years, Norleen (Burns) Fleming; his sons, Daniel, who is currently stationed in Hawaii, and Isiah, of Oakland; mother, Alice Fleming, of Winslow; his brothers, Michael and his wife, Patricia, of Walpole, Massachusetts, Stephen, of Roslindale, Massachusetts, John and his wife, Kandice, of Waterville, Brian and his wife, Gretchen, of Bangor, and David and his wife, Sally, of Bangor; his aunt, Anne M. (Fleming) Fonz, of Barcelona, Spain; his sister-in-law, Dawn Gross, and her partner Sandy Crowe, of Norridgewock; brother-in-law, Robert Burns and his wife Rose, of Sheridan, Wyoming; as well as 18 nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held at the Maine Criminal Justice Academy Saturday December 7, 2019 at 1 p.m.

Arrangements are in the care of Knowlton and Hewins Funeral Home, One Church Street, Augusta.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family on the obituary page of our website at www.familyfirstfuneralhomes.com

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the EHE Foundation, Attn., Julie Wahl, 1561 Hopi Court, Hobard, Wisconsin, 54313, online at Donate Now!, or to your local hospice organization.

WAYNE A LEE SR.

CLINTON – Wayne A. Lee, Sr., 84, passed away Tuesday, November 26, 2019, at Northern Lights Health Care, in Bangor. He was born September 3, 1935, in Danforth, the son of Hermon and Edith (Muncey) Lee.

He worked in several local mills before getting his Class A license and driving a truck for commercial companies.

Wayne is survived by sons, Wayne A. Lee, Jr. and wife Wendy, of China, Timothy A. Lee, Sr. and wife Mary, of Winslow, Randy Lee, of Clinton; daughter Melody Fitzpatrick and husband Andy, of Clinton; several grandchildren and great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by four brothers, and six sisters.

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

EZELDA P. PRESCOTT

WHITEFIELD – Ezelda Patricia Prescott, 89, died Tuesday, November 26, 2019, at her home, in Whitefield. Ezelda was born April 19, 1930, in Gardiner, the daughter of Frank and Rena (Brown) Mason.

She was educated in Gardiner schools and then moved to Whitefield with her husband Elmer Linwood Prescott where they raised their family. Ezelda also provided childcare for many local children for over 50 years. She enjoyed spending time during the summers at their family camp on Clary Lake, in Whitefield.

Ezelda was predeceased by her brothers Leroy Mason, Russell Mason and Frankie Mason and wife Sarah; and half-sister Doris Barrett, Archie Barrett, Joe and Marion Mason.

She is survived by her five children Ronald Rollins, Carol Young and husband Steven, Deanne Crocker and husband Steven, Dennis Prescott and Troy Prescott; three brothers Ernest Mason and wife Mary, of Gardiner, Cedric Mason and wife Beverly, of Whitefield, and Roger Mason and wife Carlene, of Lisbon Falls; nine grandchildren, Ronald E. Rollins and wife Kari, Brandy Hodgkins and husband Dan, Tara Plante and husband Toni, Chad Armstrong, Shane Young, Michelle Young and partner Melissa, Ashley Prescott, Jenny Stanhope and husband Seth, and Morgan Britto and husband Aaron; 11 great-grandchildren.

Visiting hours will be held on Saturday, December 7, from 10 – 11 a.m. at Staples Funeral Home and Cremation Care, 53 Brunswick Ave., Gardiner, Maine.

A memorial service will follow at 11 a.m. A Spring burial will be in Highland Cemetery, in Jefferson.

Arrangements are in the care of Staples Funeral Home and Cremation Care, 53 Brunswick Ave., Gardiner, Maine.

Condolences, memories and photos may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the Staples Funeral Home website: familyfirstfuneralhomes.com.

Memorial donations may be made to:Alzheimer’s Association of Maine 383 US Route One #2C Scarborough, ME 04074.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: I miss that America

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To the editor:

I was a child of the ‘60s. Not a product, just a child. I graduated from high school, college and seminary all in the ‘60s. I protested what I needed to protest and I learned that free speech was a good thing. I was most thankful for the Civil Rights movement. I still like much of the music. I lived in a Black Italian neighborhood in a Jewish town and my best friends were Jews and Blacks. My Jewish friend passed away last year but my Black friend is still a friend after 60 years.

I learned responsibility, the value of hard work and common sense. My education was highly important because it taught me to think for myself. My professors challenged me to learn for my own satisfaction and not parrot back to them. They said “research it, question it, check the possibilities, be your own person, look at all sides of the issue” etc. They, unlike many today, taught me “how to think” rather than, “what to think.” As I observe the news today, it seems that colleges seem to be more interested in only one way of thinking rather than creating well informed and caring citizens.

Young people are not taught respect for the ideas of others. We have become a one, and only one, opinion allowed, nation. Believe in something other than what the culture calls for and you are labeled as bigots, haters, Nazi’s, Fascists, etc. Many young people have no idea of what these names mean because they are not taught actual history. Nazis and Fascists allowed only one way of thinking. Is this America’s destiny? Americas have, since our beginning, held differing opinions and beliefs.

And, like everyone in the world, we were born with God’s gift of free will. And if you don’t believe in God, you still have free will. Do we realize how very fortunate we are?

Today, the culture forbids free will. The irony here is that in the ‘60s we believed that we had had a right to our own opinions. The university has become the most close minded institution in America. Disagreement is not allowed. Those who want to teach free speech are not welcomed. And many young people are easily offended and need to hide in a “safe zones” so they won’t have to fall apart and think that there may be another belief out there. We need to speak to each other face to face and to be open minded about the dialog. Instead we get riots when those who have different opinions are not allowed to be heard because they do not hold our current, one way and one way only belief system.

I remember when reporters actually looked for truth, no matter where it was to be found. Now, many of them only opine and fear to be different.

I remember when Hollywood and the sports world were supposed to entertain and not be political. I remember when colleges wanted us to think for ourselves. I remember the three R’s but, more important were the three C’s; courtesy, class and character.

I miss that America.

Rev. Jim Ferrone
South China

Bird count seeks feeder watchers and field observers

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The Sebasticook Regional Land Trust (SRLT) invites all interested birdwatchers to participate in the Unity Christmas Bird Count (CBC) on Saturday December 14.

If you like to feed the birds and will be around to watch your bird feeder on the day of the count, they would love to have you help!

This event contributes to the North American database for the National Audubon Society’s CBC which is now in its 120th year. Birders of all skill levels are welcome at any level of participation.

A CBC is a tally of individuals of all bird species found during one 24-hour period from midnight to midnight within a 7.5 mile radius. The Unity CBC circle is centered at the intersection of Quaker Hill Road and Route 202/9, in Unity, and is divided into sectors, each of which is assigned to a team of observers.

You may either watch birds at your home feeders (if you live within the circle) or go out in the field for any part of the day.

SRLT will provide volunteers with instructions, bird lists, data sheets and the results of the tally.

They will also sponsor another CBC in Hartland on December 21. This count is centered just south of St. Albans and extends from the south side of Great Moose Lake to the west side of Sebasticook Lake. The count will be run similarly to the Unity count, as explained above. If you have computer access and would like more information on the CBC, see this link: http://www.audubon.org/content/history-christmas-bird-count.

For more information or to sign up for either count, please email Tom Aversa at tom.aversa@gmail.com.

Palermo Community Center in search of seed money to upgrade community garden

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The Palermo Community Garden is going for a SeedMoney FlashFund Challenge Grant. They are looking to revamp and raise some of the cedar log garden beds to provide comfortable seating for seniors and the disabled, so they can enjoy the organic veggie beds, the friendly hummingbirds, and getting their hands in the soil. They also want to purchase roll-around garden seats with toll racks, to save wear and tear on knees.

The Palermo Community Garden provides over 450 pounds a season of extremely fresh salad greens, vegetables, herbs and fruit to the Palermo Food Pantry. Any volunteers can pick whatever their family needs from the garden from asparagus to zinnias.

The goal is to raise $600 before December 15. You can help. Just go to https://donate.seedmoney.org/3621/palermo-community-garden, and push the orange DONATE button. There is already over $200 in the kitty, so any amount of your generosity will be hugely appreciated.

For more information, contact Connie Bellet at 993-2294 or pwwhitehawk@fairpoint.net.