What was the closest score in a Super Bowl game?
20-19, New York Giants over the Buffalo Bills, on January 27, 1991. (A last play 47-yard – potential game-winning – field goal attempt by Scott Norwood went wide right.)
submitted by Sasha FitzpatrickAs you know, inflation heated up in 2021, following years of pretty stable – and low – numbers. And now, early in 2022, we’re still seeing elevated prices. As a consumer, you may need to adjust your activities somewhat, but as an investor, how should you respond to inflation?
First, it helps to know the causes of this recent inflationary spike. Essentially, it’s a case of basic economics – strong demand for goods meeting inadequate supply, caused by material and labor shortages, along with shipping and delivery logjams. In other words, too many dollars chasing too few goods. Once the supply chain issues begin to ease and consumer spending moves from goods to services as the COVID-19 pandemic wanes, it’s likely that inflation will moderate, but it may still stay above pre-pandemic levels throughout 2022.
Given this outlook, you may want to review your investment portfolio. First, consider stocks. Generally speaking, stocks can do well in inflationary periods because companies’ revenues and earnings may increase along with inflation. But some sectors of the stock market typically do better than others during inflationary times. Companies that can pass along higher costs to consumers due to strong demand for their goods – such as firms that produce building materials or supply steel or other commodities to other businesses – can do well. Conversely, companies that sell nonessential goods and services, such as appliances, athletic apparel and entertainment, may struggle more when prices are rising.
Of course, it’s still a good idea to own a variety of stocks from various industries because it can help reduce the impact of market volatility on any one sector. And to help counteract the effects of rising prices, you might also consider investing in companies that have a long track record of paying and raising stock dividends. (Keep in mind, though, that these companies are not obligated to pay dividends and can reduce or discontinue them at any time.)
Apart from stocks, how can inflation affect other types of investments? Think about bonds. When you invest in a bond, you receive regular interest payments until the bond matures. But these payments stay the same, so, over time, rising inflation can eat into your bond’s future income, which may also cause the price of your bond to drop – a concern if you decide to sell the bond before it matures. The impact of inflation is especially sharp on the price of longer-term bonds because of the cumulative loss of purchasing power.
However, Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities (TIPS) can provide some protection against inflation. The face value, or principal amount, of each TIPS is $1,000, but this principal is adjusted based on changes in the U.S. Consumer Price Index. So, during periods of inflation, your principal will increase, also increasing your interest payments. When inflation drops, though, your principal and interest payments will decrease, but you’ll never receive less than the original principal value when the TIPS mature. Talk to your financial advisor to determine if TIPS may be appropriate for you.
Ultimately, inflation may indeed be something to consider when managing your investments. But other factors – especially your risk tolerance, time horizon and long-term goals – should still be the driving force behind your investment decisions. A solid investment strategy can serve you well, regardless of whether prices move up or down.
This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Edward Jones, Member SIPC.
FAIRFIELD – Frank Bibber, 75, passed away peacefully Tuesday, January 4, 2022. He was born September 29, 1946, in Freeport.
He returned to Maine to be with his family after spending 23 years in Florida. Frank enjoyed spending time with his family.
He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Dorothy Bibber; daughters Dorothy Lane and husband Raymond, Valarie Ireland and husband John; son Frank Bibber Jr. and wife Miranda, of Minnesota; six grandchildren.
He was predeceased by father Chester Bibber, mother Mabel Bibber; two sisters, Jean Bibber and Sophie Trott; and granddaughter, Ashley.
A celebration of life will be held February 5, at 1 p.m., at 77 Nyes Corner Dr., in Fairfield.
In lieu of flowers, Dot and family are making a memory garden in the spring in Frank’s honor. Please feel free to donate to Dot Bibber, 8 Daisy Lane, Fairfield, ME 04937.
FAIRFIELD – Philip C. “Butch” Proulx, 77, passed away on Friday, January 7, 2021, at home. Butch was born August 26, 1944, in Waterville, son of the late Albert and Ruth (Bradeen) Proulx.
He was the husband of Jocelyn D. “Jocie” (Feyler) Proulx with whom he shared 47 years of marriage.
He was a graduate of Waterville High School, Colby College, in Waterville, and the University of Puerto Rico, where he received his master’s degree.
He was a United States Air Force veteran.
Butch worked as a loan officer for Small Business Administration.
In addition to spending time with his family and friends, Butch also enjoyed golfing and was an avid sportsman.
He is survived by his wife Jocie; son Craig Feyler, of Fairfield; two grandchildren Jillian and Nolan; his sister Carol Denis, of Waterville; his sister-in-law Louise Proulx, of Waterville; many nieces and nephews.
Butch is the brother of the late David and John Proulx.
Arrangements are in the care of the Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 107 Main St., Fairfield, where condolences may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the website at http://www.familyfirstfuneralhomes.com.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made in his memory to the Humane Society Waterville Area, 100 Webb Rd., Waterville, ME 04901.
WINSLOW – Donald L. Bessey, 71, passed away on Monday, January 11, 2022, in Winslow. He was born February 24, 1950, in Waterville, the son of Merton Bessey Sr. and Irene Jenness.
Donald was employed for many years as the manager for Pullen Ford’s Paint and Body Shop, in Waterville, and as an adjustor for Allstate Insurance. He also was a volunteer firefighter for Oakland in his earlier years.
Before his decline in health, Donald loved to hunt and fish and spend time with his wife at their camp in Bingham. Lots of great memories were made with family and friends. His family meant the world to him and we will miss him greatly.
He is survived by his wife, Gloria Jean; daughter, Tabatha (Tim); son, Travis (Becky); stepchildren, Linda (Frank) and Steve; sisters, Barbara, Norma and Susan (Rick); grandchildren, Jeremy, Justin, Joshua, Brandon, Andrew, Vaughn, Carroll and Steven; sister-in-law, Ellen Bessey, brothers-in-law, Dennis Bolduc, Dickie Fortin, Steve (Helen) Gleason, Danny (Lisa) Gleason.
Donald was predeceased by his parents; brothers Merton Bessey Jr and James Bessey; his niece Barbara Ann St.Pierre.
There will not be a service at this time and the family is planning a celebration of life this summer.
Arrangements under the direction and care of Dan & Scott’s Cremation & Funeral Service, 445 Waterville Road, Skowhegan ME 04976.
In lieu of flowers, friends wishing may make donations in Donald’s memory to the Humane Society Waterville Area, 100 Webb Rd., Waterville, ME 04901.
SHAWMUT – Jeffrey L. Marshall, 67, of Shawmut, passed away Sunday, January 9, 2022, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Augusta, following a brief, but courageous, battle with AML Leukemia. Jeff was born April 2, 1954, in Waterville, to Eugene and Jacqueline (Fisher) Marshall Sr.
He attended and graduated from Waterville High School in 1972 and continued his education at Thomas College, in Waterville, earning his bachelor’s degree in business in 1976.
In 1977, Jeff met his one true love, Sandra Doyon, and they were married on July 2, of that year. After first settling in Waterville, they made their forever home in Shawmut in 1983, prior to the birth of their third child. Jeff devoted almost 46 years to the Wendy’s brand, where he was employed at the time of his passing. Jeff had started his career with Wendy’s in 1976 at the Waterville location as an assistant manager, working his way through the ranks. For the last 30 years, he served in his current position as Director of Operations for Legacy Capital Partners franchise, previously owned by Restwend LLC.
Jeff was very active in the softball community; he was a member of the Greater Waterville Softball Umpires Association (GWSUA). He was also the District 6 Commissioner for USA Softball of Maine for many years. Jeff wore many different hats when it came to softball. He was a player for many years, starting out at the age of 15 with his high school friends, asking the men’s league teams if they could practice against them. From 1973-1975, he played in the Winslow Men’s Slow Pitch league for Mr. Big. In 1976, the team joined the Waterville Men’s Modified league, playing for Maheu’s Kawasaki. In 1980 the team became D’Anne, sponsored by the late Don and Anne Harris. That team played host for the National Men’s Modified tournament that year. The final team was Harvey’s, sponsored by the late Harvey Violette. The team split up for a few years, while they were all busy raising families and reformed when Jeff started the Men’s Fall League with Waterville Parks and Rec. They continued to play and remained competitive, even against teams much younger. He finally told “The Boys” it was time to hang up their gloves as they all approached age 60, because “someone was going to get hurt.” Jeff spent a lot of time during the ‘90s coaching his daughters and helped to establish a program within the Lawrence community through the PAL program with Cleveland “Brownie” Brown.
Jeff enjoyed fishing trips with his brother Gene and nephew Randy; taking road trips with his wife Sandi, just to see where a random dirt road might go; and spending time with his grandchildren watching them grow into young adults. He loved to sing, especially karaoke at Classics on a Saturday night. Jeff was a huge Boston sports fan. In 2018, he was lucky enough to see his Red Sox play in the World Series not once, but twice, attending game one with his nephew and game two with his daughter. Jeff was a member of the MSAD #49 school board from 1996-2004, ruffling some feathers along the way, trying to do what was best for the students of Albion, Benton, Clinton, and Fairfield.
Jeff had a great sense of humor, always quick with a comeback, a one liner or a bad dad joke.
Jeff was predeceased by his parents and a granddaughter, Emma-Lynn Veilleux.
He is survived by his wife of almost 45 years, Sandi; his daughters, Andrea Nickerson and her husband Ryan and their daughters Gabrielle and Aubrey, of Clinton; Sarah Marshall and boyfriend Jacob Blow and her children Seyarah, Landon and Lexi, of Shawmut; Laura Marshall and boyfriend Matthew Cookson and her children Kaytlynn and Nolan, of Fairfield; brothers Eugene and wife Dorothy, of Belgrade and Tim and his wife Cori, of Gold Hill, Oregon; as well as many nieces and nephews.
A celebration of Jeff’s life will be held February 20, 2022, at the Waterville Elks from 1 – 4 p.m.
Arrangements are in the care of the Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 107 Main St. Fairfield where memories may be shared, and an online register book signed by visiting http://www.familyfirstfuneralhomes.com.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of your choice.
VASSALBORO – Colleen S. Cook, 68, of Vassalboro, passed on Monday January 10, 2022. She was born on March 31, 1953, in Eastport, the daughter of John Jacob Hutton and Margaret Elizabeth (Calder).
Colleen grew up in Eastport and Enfield, Connecticut, graduating from Enfield High School.
As a single mom, Colleen had many jobs over the years. Most memorable were Stern’s Department Store, in Waterville, Cargill, in Oklahoma, and her most recent position at the VA hospital at Togus where she retired in 2018.
Colleen was the epitome of a people person. She was always talking to strangers, asking where they were from and if they knew so and so. She loved hosting large family gatherings every summer, and was the hub of all information. Besides her love of family and friends, her passion was shopping and gifting! She loved Christmas and never forgot a birthday!
She is survived by her husband Michael Cook; her sons James Jorgensen and his wife Jennifer, of Northboro, Massachusetts, William Jorgensen and his wife Amy, of Windham; daughter Kayla Cook, of Maine; her six grandchildren Collin, Landen, Miah, Johnny, Sarah and Bradford Jorgensen; her sisters Laurie Clark, Kathy Crockett and her husband Gerald, James Flye and his wife Arlene; sister-in-law Jayne Hutton; and many special nieces and nephews. Colleen also leaves behind three stepchildren, their spouses and children who she thought of as her own.
She was very into family history and genealogy and will be missed by those cousins and relatives she got to know over the years. Colleen was predeceased by her father John Hutton, of Covington, Kentucky, her mother, Margaret Calder Hutton, of Eastport; her stepmother, Faylene Otis; brother John Hutton, of Thorndike; and aunt Hilda Dinsmore of Enfield, Connecticut.
There will be a local memorial service in the early spring and a graveside service in July, in Eastport.
WATERVILLE – Marie E. Belanger, 83, passed away Wednesday, January 12, 2022. Marie was born January 30, 1938.
She was predeceased by her husband of many years, Guilford Belanger.
Marie liked her pass times such as knitting, sewing, puzzles and a good game of corn hole.
She is survived by four sisters; two sons, Gilbert Belanger and Tina Cote, of Palmyra, and Timothy and wife Susan Belanger, of Connecticut. She had several grandchildren whom she loved dearly.
Graveside burial in the spring will be announced at a later date.
VASSALBORO – Richard “Dick” B. Cain Sr., 84, died unexpectedly and peacefully in his sleep on Thursday, January 13, 2022. Dick was born in Vassalboro to parents Silas and Delia Cain on April 1, 1937.
He was educated in the Vassalboro and Winslow schools and had been a resident of Vassalboro his entire life. Dick served six years in Maine Air National Guard from August 1959 to August 1965. He worked as a truck driver for Ladd Paper company, in Vassalboro. He owned and operated multiple gas stations and a construction business. Later, he was employed by the Waterville Sewer District and ended his working career as road foreman for the Town of Vassalboro.
Dick was also a member of the Masons.In 1960, Dick married his lifelong best friend and the love of his life, Margaret (Peggy) Jones Cain, and together they had seven children. Dick dedicated his life to his wife, his children, and grandchildren.
All the grandchildren fondly referred to him as “Pickey”. He had an extraordinary love for his pets especially his dogs, Max and Bree and his cat, Daisy. Dick was a hardworking and loving family man who instilled these values in his children and grandchildren.
One of his favorite things to do was to pack up the 4-wheeler and trailer and head down in the back woods to cut wood alongside his children and grandchildren. Dick also valued his quality time with the family. He was involved in all the children’s activities including Boy Scouts, football, and hockey boosters, and he played on the men’s softball team with his sons. He even attended his girls dance recitals. Dick especially enjoyed swimming in the pool and showing off his fancy dives or cooking up chicken and his delicious smoked steak prepared with his secret “Pickey’s sauce” for the family cookouts. He loved potluck dinners, camping, and hunting and fishing with the family.
Dick is survived by his wife, Margaret (Peggy) Jones Cain; son, Kevin Cain and his wife Gina; daughter, Alison Thompson and her husband Kevin; son, Richard Cain Jr. and his fiancée Stacey St. Amand; son, David Cain and his wife Terri, daughter, Meridith Cain; son, Alfred Jones (AJ) Cain and his wife Rhonda; 16 grandchildren; and many great-grandchildren; brother, Silas (Bill) Cain and his wife Lorette; sister, Maureen Macomber and her husband Bill; and sister, Patricia (Pat) Crocker and sister-in-law, Shirley Jones.
Dick was predeceased by his son Mark W. Cain, June 21, 1984, and his parents Silas and Delia Cain and Silas’s second wife Georgia Cain.
A Celebration of Life was held at the Winslow VFW on Tuesday, January 25, 2022.
Arrangements are in the care of the Wheeler Funeral Home, 26 Church Street, Oakland, where condolences, memories, and photos may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the website at http://www.familyfirstfuneralhomes.com.
In lieu of flowers, donations in his memorymay be made to the Humane Society Waterville Area, 100 Webb Rd.,Waterville, ME. 04901.
OAKLAND – Isaac Powell, 43, passed away at his home in Waterville on Thursday, January 13, 2022. He was born on April 13, 1978, in Skowhegan, the son of Sandra (Plourde) and Brian Powell.
Isaac loved spending time with his family and friends, whether it was through coffee dates, or cooking up a huge pot of spaghetti for everyone to enjoy. He was a true outdoorsman, from hunting to fishing. He enjoyed spending time tinkering on vehicles. Isaac would often go for a ride, listening to old country or Elvis Presley.
Isaac is survived by his partner, Brandy Robinson and her daughter, Brooke Robinson; his four children, Chantal Powell, Richard Shibles and his partner Mariah Bryant and their children Reed and Walker, of Madison; Storm Powell and partner Kali Prevost-Moody, of Oakland, Brian Powell, of Oakland, and Heavenly Powell, of South Carolina; his parents Sandra Plourde and Brian Powell, of Oakland; his sister, Kelley and her husband Tyler Hamm and their daughter Abby; his siblings Robert Salley and Randi Salley; and uncle, Tony Powell; his grandmothers Doris Boutelle, Rosalie Powell and grandfather, Robert Plourde.
He was predeceased by his grandfathers Walter Powell and Steve Boutelle; and his uncle Mark Plourde.
A celebration of life will take place at a later date.
Arrangements are in the care of the Wheeler Funeral Home, 26 Church St., Oakland, where condolences may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the website at http://www.familyfirstfuneralhomes.com.
ALBION – Steven E. Shaw, 67, of Albion, passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 15, 2022, following a courageous fight with heart disease. He was born on May 11, 1954, to the late Joyce (Roderick) Hughes and Kenneth Shaw.
He grew up in Falmouth, Massachusetts. In 1970, he joined the United States Army and proudly served his country. After his discharge from the Army, he married his first wife, Deborah Clark, daughter of Jean and William Clark. In 1981 his cherished daughter, Jennifer, was born.
He started his own roofing business and enjoyed life on Cape Cod before moving to his hunting camp in Freedom, in 1986. It was at this very hunting camp that he met his current wife, Bonnie Paquette, daughter of Ron and Joanne Gagnon and the late Don Paquette. They married on October 20, 1990.
In 1992, they were blessed with their son, Jonathan. Steve later put his carpentry skills to work and built his own home in Freedom where he spent many happy years making memories with his family.
Steve was proud of many things, but especially the time he spent working at Mount View High School, in Thorndike, as a football coach, after school supervisor, and a special ed. tech. It was during this time that he made a tremendous impact on many students, faculty and staff.
He loved the outdoors, especially fishing and hunting, which earned him the nickname Big Bucks Shaw. He treasured the time spent at his camp in Rockwood, and close friends enjoyed time at “man camp” as well.
He is survived by his wife, Bonnie; his daughter, Jennifer (Chagnon) and her husband, Jared; his son, Jonathan and his wife Brittany; and his three grandchildren, Mason, Maddox, and Kinley. He was so grateful to his extended family, especially the Paquettes, Browns, Masessas, Clarks, Clausons.
A celebration of life was held on Saturday, January 22, at the Liberty Community Hall, 320 Pinnacle Road, Liberty, Maine.
In lieu of flowers, donations through GoFundMe can be made to one of two causes Steve would be proud to help: The Riley Boulay Scholarship Fund and Mount View Football Boosters (to donate visit tinyurl.com/stevenshaw).
OAKLAND – Gerald Joseph Grivois, 87, passed away on Saturday, January 15, 2022, at his home. He was born November 29, 1934, the son of Arthur and Mabel (Beaulieu) Grivois.
Gerald worked for Woods Typewriter Manufacturing in Hartford, Connecticut, and then for Wyndotte-Worsted Woolen Mill, in Waterville, until his retirement.
Gerald enjoyed the outdoors with hunting and fishing. He and his wife loved traveling, they went on many adventures and shared many stories.
Gerald is survived by his sons, Jerry and his wife Debbie Grivois and their son Jerry Jr., and Jeff and his wife Judy Grivois and their daughter Katelynn; and a sister, Gloria, of Utah.
He was predeceased by his wife Jeannette; his parents; his brothers, Armand, and Jimmy; his sisters, Mary, and Edwina; and uncle Harold.
There will be a burial in the spring.
Arrangements are in the care of the Wheeler Funeral Home, 26 Church St., Oakland, where condolences may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the website at http://www.familyfirstfuneralhomes.com.
OAKLAND – Herbert Ervin Rhoda, 79, passed away Sunday, January 16, 2022, in his favorite chair at his home in Oakland. Herb was born in 1942 to parents Ervin and Inez (Turney) Rhoda and grew up in Cornville.
At the age of ten, he moved to Hodgdon, where he lived and tilled the earth until 1993.
Herb attended Hodgdon High School and graduated in 1960 a foul-shooter to be reckoned with. He traded witty remarks with a beautiful senior waiting for her bus on his way to an alumni basketball practice one day, and three years later on August 7, 1965, they were married. Following his graduation from Hodgdon, Herb attended the University of Maine at Orono to study soil conservation and became a potato farmer and woods contractor for Great Northern Paper Company for 30 plus years.
Herb was a devoted farmer and doting husband. He took great pride in his family, especially his grandchildren, and in his meticulously straight potato rows. The ultimate storyteller, he was well known in the County, not only for his hardworking reputation but because he was someone who had time for everyone. Herb didn’t leave the house without a toothpick in his mouth and a joke in his pocket. He could diffuse any situation with his wit and a grin. Not even a trip to the store was mundane because if Herb couldn’t find an old friend to talk to, he always made a new one.
After moving to the Waterville area in 1993, Herb worked at SAPPI Fine Papers mill, in Hinckley, until he retired. If you knew Herb, you know “retired” was a term used loosely for a man who always had a project in mind. If he wasn’t tinkering with a grandchild in his garage or garden, you could find him volunteering for RSU #18’s WATCH D.O.G.S. Program or driving the sports team buses for Thomas College. Everyone gravitated towards Herb, whether they were third grade elementary students or third year college students and beyond.
Herb loved the Lord and was well acquainted with the ground and dust from which he was made. He loved the old hymns, especially In The Garden, and loved to watch his grandchildren sing in church. He modeled how close we can be to God by sticking our hands in the dirt and fostering creation.
He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Pamela (Wilson) Rhoda; his two sons, Chris and wife Andrea Rhoda, Craig and wife Brandie Rhoda; his grandchildren, Haven, Sierra and husband Jasper, Amelia, Emma, and Andrew; his brother, Jim Rhoda and wife Becky; sister Ruth (Rhoda) Clark and husband Brian; sister-in-law Sandra Rhoda; and his extended family.
He was predeceased by his parents and his brother John Rhoda.
A celebration of life will be held within the Youth Center at the Faith Evangelical Free Church, 250 Kennedy Memorial Drive, Waterville, ME 04901, on February 5, from 2 – 4 p.m.
Arrangements are in the care of the Wheeler Funeral Home, 26 Church St. Oakland, where condolences may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the website at http://www.familyfirstfuneralhomes.com.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Awaken City Church, PO Box 300340, Jamaica Plain, MA 02130, where their granddaughter serves and of which they faithfully attended online every Sunday.
WATERVILLE – Mary Ayoob, 103, passed away on Sunday, January 16, 2022. Mary was born in Fort Fairfield, the daughter of William and Sadie Ferris Ayoob.
She graduated from Fort Fairfield High School and Mercy Hospital, in Portland, where she received her associate nursing degree. Her life was one of service to others as she dedicated all her working years as an RN at Fort Fairfield General Hospital where she delivered several nieces, Sister’s Hospital, Elizabeth Ann Seton Hospital, and Thayer Hospital, in Waterville.
Mary’s immense compassion led her to take a leave of absence at any moment when her family members needed her to care for them. When visiting with her youngest sister, Phyllis Ayoob Cogswell, and her family in various states, she often continued her nursing service. She was thrilled to travel with Phyllis and her husband, Ralph, to Hawaii. It was a journey of immense happiness and joy.
Mary, or Good Ol’ Aunt Mary, as her nieces and nephews called her, was full of love, kindness, humility, gentleness, generosity, simplicity, and unconditional love for her family – her legacy with whom she had the honor of being a “mother.” The days of fun seemed never ending spent at the camp of her sister, Cecilia Ayoob Coury. The outdoors and joy of nature were among her life’s pleasures. Her flowers always bloomed with unspeakable beauty and she could make any tomato or cucumber plant grow with her tender touch. Feeding and watching the birds were simple delights that reflected her sweet disposition.
Reading and traveling were among her favorite hobbies. She traveled on the Queen Mary to the Middle East. Accompanied by her sister Annie Ayoob Joseph, her dear cousins Dianne Joseph, and Mary Ferris, she had an incredible journey. Meeting and staying with cousins in Lebanon whom they had never seen was heartwarming.
Visiting several Middle Eastern countries and sightseeing in Egypt, including a camel ride, was a memorable journey that tenderly touched her heart.
Mary also enjoyed North American trips accompanied by her lifelong best friend and fellow nurse, Mary Hall, including an Alaskan cruise, a gift received on her 80th birthday. A trip to the Rocky Mountains in Canada with its majestic views was especially memorable as Mary was forever grateful for the opportunity to view the splendor of nature.
Mary was predeceased by her parents, William and Sadie Ayoob; her brothers George Ayoob, Louis Ayoob and her sisters Annie Ayoob Joseph (Elias), Cecilia Ayoob Coury (Joseph), Phyllis Ayoob Cogswell (Ralph); her nephews Darrell Joseph and Lawrence Ayoob, her nieces Gail Ayoob McManus, Jacqueline Ayoob Cilley; and in-laws, Nancy Joseph, Reginald Bernard, and Jim Schuyler.
She is survived by nieces and nephews Herbert Joseph, William Ayoob (Diane), Andrea Ayoob Pelletier (Dick), Phyllis Hay Ayoob, Anne Coury Bernard (Michael), Martha Coury Patterson (Neal), Peter Cogswell (Lillie), Michael Cogswell (Cynthia), Binette Cogswell Schuyler; 29 great-nieces and great-nephews; 30 great-grandnieces and great-grandnephews; and many cousins, and friends.
A devout Catholic, Mary was a communicant of St. Joseph’s Maronite Church and Corpus Christi Parish, both in Waterville. If you were observant, you could always see her putting money in poor boxes.
A celebration of her life will be held in July with a local Mass and social gathering followed by a burial service in Fort Fairfield.
If you wish to give in Mary’s memory, a Mass card or donation to a charity of your choice may be made
NORTH VASSALBORO – Wayne Ellison Bowers Sr., 80, of North Vassalboro, passed away peacefully at his home on Monday, January 17, 2022. Wayne was born on October 5, 1941, in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
Wayne graduated from Tewksbury High School and went on to obtain his bachelor’s degree in chemistry from the Lowell Technical Institute. This led to a long, successful career as a industrial chemist, which included numerous patents with some still in use to this day.
Wayne’s passions included traveling to St. Croix, Vieques, the Wild River, Las Vegas and many other destinations with family and friends.
Wayne took great pride in his vegetable garden including growing all the ingredients for the most delicious garlic dill pickles. Wayne loved cooking up a big meal for the family and was always up for a game of cribbage. Other passions were spending time with family on the “lanai”, fishing, and a lifelong love of music.
Wayne is survived by his husband, Mathew Pitcher; his son Wayne E. Bowers Jr., his daughter Robyn Bowers-Pfeffer and her husband Ira; as well as six grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.
Wayne was very close to his in-laws, Peter and the late Jane Pitcher, Suzanne Pelkey and her husband Scott and their beautiful family.
Wayne was predeceased by his parents; sister Carole; ex-wife Valerie; and daughter Wendy.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Wayne’s name to the Vassalboro Food Pantry.
VIRGINIA BEACH, Virginia – Lisa Winters, 38, passed away on Sunday, January 16, 2022. Lisa grew up in Waterville, the daughter of Dorie Hawkes Winters and Mark Winters.
She was an accomplished cross-country runner and track athlete. For the past decade, Lisa was a resident of Virginia Beach. She worked with numerous companies in the restaurant industry during her career and had an exceptional work ethic, with deep respect and loyalty for her employers. She loved family, was an adoring and fun aunt to her niece, Logan Winters, and nephews Gordie, Robert and Conrad Winters, and had a deep commitment to her friends.
Lisa is survived by her parents; her brothers and their wives, C. Todd Winters and sister-in-law Dr. Jessica Winters, and Timothy Winters and sister-in-law Natsuko Winters, several aunts, uncles and cousins.
A Celebration of Lisa’s Life was held at Judy’s Pub & Eatery, at 315 N. Great Neck Road, Suite 364, Virginia Beach, on Thursday, January 20.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to the AYC of Greater Waterville, Maine, the Norfolk (Virginia) SPCA Adoption Center or the Norfolk Animal Care and Adoption Center.
FAIRFIELD – Mike Watson, 63, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 20, 2022. He was born on February 6, 1958, to Stan and Iva Watson, in Hartland, and grew up in Skowhegan.
Mike graduated from Skowhegan High School in 1976 and was a proud member of the Skowhegan Indians football and wrestling teams, and was in the National Honor Society. Mike attended UMO and was a member of the Delta Tau Delta Fraternity. He completed both an associate’s in banking and a bachelor’s in business at Thomas College, in Waterville. He was a member of the Free Masons for 35 years.
Mike worked at Depositor’s Trust Co., in Waterville, for three years, Central Maine Power Co. for 29 years, and Energy Resources and Solutions (ERS) for eight more before retiring early in 2018 to care for his mom and dad, who have since both passed. At CMP, Mike worked his way up from “pushing pulp” on the river with his dear friend and mentor, Norman “Dingy” Dionne, to becoming the Director of Maintenance Engineering. At ERS, Mike was proud to be part of a team talented engineers and support staff, and was grateful to work for such a wonderful, caring company as ERS.
People, integrity, a positive attitude and a strong work ethic were most important to Mike. So was family and having fun, and he lived his life with no regrets and lots of stories to tell. Mike coached Little League for five years, was an avid fisherman, enjoyed tying flies and hunting, and shared his love for sports and the outdoors with his children and grandchildren. He was fortunate to have many, many true friends, both personally and professionally, and invites them to have a beer in his memory.
Mike is survived by his wife, Allison; his son, Benjamin Watson and three grandchildren, Miles, Eoin and Fayle, of Gorham; his stepdaughter, Melissa Audet and fiancé Ray Benjamin, and two grandchildren, Cameron James Stewart and Abigale Grace Stewart, of Clinton; his stepson, Brian Audet and wife Sydnee, granddaughter Laynee Brook, of Plymouth; his stepson, Benjamin Audet and fiancée Felecia Paradis, of Winslow; two brothers, Stanley Watson and wife Marjorie, of Georgetown, Massachusetts, and Ronnie Watson, of Cornville; his aunt Donna Sawyer and uncle Ronnie Watson, of Cambridge; and several cousins, nieces, nephews and their children.
As Mike wished, there will be no services.
Arrangements under the direction and care of Dan & Scott’s Cremation & Funeral Service, 445 Waterville Road, Skowhegan ME 04976.
Remembrance gifts may be made in Mike’s memory to the Anah Shriner’s Children’s Hospital at https://lovetotherescue.org.
by Mary GrowMembers of China’s Broadband Committee (CBC) heard a presentation from two Consolidated Communications officials at their Jan. 18 meeting. The speakers did not encourage them to expect an offer from the company to expand internet service to town residents.
Consolidated, which used to be Fairpoint Communications, serves some China residents, many fewer than are served by Spectrum, the town’s main internet provider. One estimate CBC members have used is that Spectrum covers about 70 percent of households and Consolidated 20 percent, leaving the remainder with no internet service.
Consolidated representatives Simon Thorne and Sarah Davis explained why China is not near the top of Consolidated’s expansion list.
Company decisions are based on project cost, the number of potential customers, the take rate (how many residents sign up for the service) and the presence or absence of competition, Davis said. When the company goes into or expands in a town, it uses a mix of financing, including grants, private financing the company obtains with the expectation of a profit and local money.
China’s population density is too low to offer enough profit to attract investors.
Rules for broadband expansion grants are a work in progress. So far, most grants are available for towns with no service at all, so China would not be eligible.
And voters’ rejection of the CBC’s request for a bond issue last November casts doubt on local interest in providing funds.
When CBC member Tod Detre suggested the company plans to start with “more profitable areas,” Davis replied, “You nailed it.”
Mention of last November’s bond issue vote led to a spirited discussion. Ronald Breton, chairman of the select board and a guest at the CBC meeting, said emphatically that China is still interested in broadband expansion. He pointed out that after the vote, select board members voted unanimously to continue the CBC.
Janet Preston, the select board member who serves “ex officio” on the CBC, reminded Breton that on the Nov. 2, 2021, ballot, the select board and the budget committee both advised voters to reject the bond issue. She thinks the recommendations were “influential.”
Detre added that before the vote, opponents of the bond issue incorrectly claimed it was unnecessary, because “Consolidated would bring fiber [connections to all houses] in a year or two.” Davis confirmed Consolidated had and has no such intention.
Replying to a question from CBC member Neil Farrington, Davis said Consolidated does have fiber lines in China. But, she said, they are configured for business, and to reconfigure them to serve individual houses would be about as expensive as starting from scratch.
CBC Chairman Robert O’Connor asked if China would be more attractive to investors if the town were to form a utility district with neighboring towns, like Vassalboro and Windsor. Davis said she would find out whether a district might be helpful.
Since Davis was unsure how long it will take to get information, CBC members scheduled two more meetings: 4 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 3, to be canceled if they have no new matters to discuss; and 4 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 17, for continued discussion with Davis and Thorne if information is available by then.
by Mary Grow
China town manager Rebecca Hapgood. (photo by Eric W. Austin)
China Town Manager Rebecca Hapgood gave select board and budget committee members her initial draft of the 2022-23 town budget at a special joint meeting Jan. 24.
Select Board Chairman Ronald Breton said there would be no question and answer session at the special meeting. Members of both boards were given time to read and consider the lengthy compilation of information before discussion begins at the Jan. 31 select board meeting.
After select board members make their recommendations, the budget committee will schedule its meetings, probably in March.
The important deadlines, Hapgood said, are April 11, when select board members need to sign the final warrant for the annual town business meeting, and June 14, the date of the meeting.
As of now, the meeting is planned as a written-ballot vote, not an open meeting.
Hapgood said she has two main goals as she considers next year’s budget: avoiding a local tax increase, and “showing loyalty to town employees,” especially those who have served China for years. She proposes a six percent pay increase for town employees.
Her documents included detailed information on past, current and proposed expenditures and revenues, explanations of changes she recommends for next year and miscellaneous information, like the number of employees (16) and their years of service (ranging from almost one year to almost 28 years).
In her initial presentation, she told committee members such things as the number of miles of town-owned road (46.48 miles), the number of cemeteries in town (31) and China’s population according to the 2020 census (4,408 people).
Select board members intend to devote part of their Jan. 31 meeting to budget discussion. The meeting is scheduled for 6:30 p.m., in the town office meeting room.
by Mary GrowChina Select Board members’ January 18 discussion focused on transfer station issues. Board members adopted one major change and are leaning toward another.
The approved change will be to replace the placards now used to identify transfer station users with the stickers used before 2019. Under consideration is addition of a guard building at the entrance. Both are aimed primarily at making sure only authorized users bring trash to the facility.
Town Manager Rebecca Hapgood explained that China – and other municipalities – adopted the RFID (radio frequency identification) system in 2019 with a state grant, because state officials used the system to collect information. They have no objection to China’s discontinuing the system, she said.
The main disadvantage of the placards is that they get loaned to non-residents whose taxes do not contribute to the China transfer station.
Stickers will be pasted on users’ vehicles and will have the vehicle’s license plate on them. That combination, Hapgood said, should deter non-resident use. It might also increase excise tax collection, since China residents will be unable to register a vehicle elsewhere and get a China transfer station sticker.
She recommended charging a nominal fee, a dollar or two, and proposed implementing the system in April or May.
Board member Blane Casey moved to implement a sticker system, with a low price for year-round residents and a higher price for seasonal and Palermo residents (Palermo residents use China’s transfer station by contract), with Hapgood to decide the prices. Sticker locations are to be prescribed so as to be the same for all vehicles and visible to transfer station staff.
Board Chairman Ronald Breton was the only one to vote against the motion, because he wanted the prices set before the board acted.
Residents who have more than one RFID placard (because they own multiple vehicles) are entitled to a refund for each additional one – the first one was free. Hapgood estimated China will owe about $5,800 in refunds.
The guard shack, the manager said, would let one station attendant check stickers and loads, make sure no forbidden items are brought in, direct patrons to the right disposal areas for various items and collect fees. (The list of items for which fees are charged is on the town website, china.govoffice.com, under Transfer Station under Town Departments; it is posted at the transfer station.)
Hapgood believes adding entrance duty would not require additional staff, because the other attendants would spend less time inspecting, giving directions, collecting money and moving misplaced items.
Casey, who is a building contractor, was appointed to prepare a cost estimate for a building. Decision was postponed until he reports.
Breton is also concerned about the abuse of the free sand box at the transfer station. China residents are allowed two buckets of sand at a time during transfer station hours; Breton said people are taking more and are coming in when the station is closed.
Hapgood said security cameras are being upgraded. She accepted board member Wayne Chadwick’s suggestion that she ask the sheriff’s deputies who patrol the town to make a point of driving by the transfer station during non-operating hours.
Chadwick, also a contractor, said sand supplies are tight, at least partly because of the unusual weather. Sand “has been getting used like I’ve never seen,” he commented.
Two other pending transfer station issues are: how much to charge Palermo residents for the trash bags they buy and use to distinguish their mixed waste from China residents’; and whether and if so how transfer station hours should be changed.
The China-Palermo contract specifies the four categories of costs that justify changes in bag prices. One, the price China pays to buy the bags, has increased substantially in recent months.
Hapgood’s ongoing survey for residents, available on the town website, at the town office and elsewhere, includes questions about when people are most likely to visit the transfer station.
In other business Jan. 18, board members unanimously appointed Joel Nelson chief of the China Village volunteer fire department, succeeding Timothy Theriault.
They approved a revised town personnel policy, with minor changes recommended by town attorney Amanda Meader to be added to the final version.
They confirmed their next two meetings, a joint session with the budget committee to hear Hapgood’s 2022-23 budget presentation on Monday, Jan. 24, and a regular select board meeting at 6:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 31.
Vassalboro Community School (contributed photo)
Vassalboro School Board members heard a variety of reports at their Jan. 18 meeting, some touching on effects of the pandemic.
They did not talk about the 2022-23 budget – yet. When they reached the agenda item called “Items to be addressed by School Board at future meetings,” Superintendent Alan Pfeiffer told them “Budget, budget, more budget.”
One area affected by pandemic-caused partial virtual learning times and student absences is the nutrition program. The more students eat in the cafeteria, the better off the program is financially. In past years, Vassalboro Community School (VCS), like many other area schools, lost money on school meals.
So far this year, Finance Director Paula Pooler said, “We’re holding our own.” She commended Food Service Director John Hersey for expanding menu choices.
Hersey said he believes if more students were in school more of the time, the financial picture would be even better.
In reaction to lower test scores on national academic tests, VCS teachers and staff are initiating a variety of extra learning opportunities. Board members had questions answered about individual and small-group programs aimed at academic and social/emotional needs.
Assistant Principal Greg Hughes is planning a program that he calls Viking Camp for the middle three days of the February vacation week (which begins with the Presidents’ Day holiday Monday, Feb. 21). As of Jan. 18, details remained to be confirmed – including alerting Hersey that food will be needed, accomplished by the board discussion.
On other topics, Pfeiffer reported that applications for pre-kindergarten for the 2022-23 school year are open. A child who will be four years old by Oct. 15 is eligible to enroll.
The solar farm in which the school (and the town) invested appears to have saved about $12,000 on the electric bill in calendar year 2021, Pfeiffer said.
He thanked Special Education Director Tanya Thibeau for the connection that will bring former New Hampshire Chief Justice John T. Broderick, now an educator on mental health issues, to the area in March to address faculty and students at VCS and Erskine Academy, in South China.
Pfeiffer later reported that after an executive session discussion that followed the board meeting, he had agreed to accept another one-year contract as Vassalboro Superintendent of Schools, despite the difficulties of the past and current years.
The next regular Vassalboro School Board meeting is scheduled for Tuesday evening, Feb. 15.
by Mary GrowAt their Jan. 20 meeting, Vassalboro select board members got preliminary requests for money, federal or local or both, from town organizations. Further discussion was postponed until 2022-23 budget deliberations begin in earnest in February.
Two requests were presented at the meeting.
The department has not requested taxpayer funds before because members keep hoping to get a grant. Grant awards are based on the number of calls, Vashon said; Vassalboro has few, compared to, for example, Waterville. Another grant application is pending, with results not expected until June at the earliest.
In addition, select board members talked about how to allocate federal ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act) money. One possibility is giving bonuses to town employees and members of the fire department and rescue unit who worked through the pandemic.
Town Manager Mary Sabins reminded them that the Vassalboro Sanitary District is also asking for ARPA funds.
The only decision made was a unanimous vote to appropriate $4,200 in ARPA funds for training fees for three new Rescue Unit members.
Select board members have scheduled a budget workshop for 12:30 p.m., Tuesday, Feb. 8.
In other business Jan. 20, Codes Officer Ryan Page reported that Chad Caron had made no appreciable progress on cleaning up the grounds around the former church he owns on Priest Hill Road in North Vassalboro. As of Jan. 20, Page said, Caron was waiting to hear back from an engineer he hoped would do the building inspection selectmen required be finished within 30 days after their Jan. 6 meeting (see The Town Line, Jan. 13, p. 2).
Board members unanimously approved rules for the Town Forest and Red Brook trails, presented by John Melrose of the Trails Committee.
Fire Chief Walker Thompson asked whether town trails are wide enough for rescue vehicles, if needed. He plans to confer with Melrose and other committee members.
Three items postponed for more information were preparing a policy on background checks for town employees and volunteers; creating a committee to draft an ordinance on decommissioning solar farms after their useful life ends; and looking into installing heat pumps at the town office.
The next regular Vassalboro select board meeting is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 3.
MA’S SQUIRRELS: Susan White sent this photo of squirrels holding a feeding frenzy. They do this everyday, but have to clean up what’s on the ground as they can’t get to the bird feeders.
FROZEN CIRCLES: Barbara Lawe, of Fairfield, photographed the Kennebec River outside her home. What appears is an unexplained series of circles in the frozen ice.
From left to right, Mary Pono and dog Sig, Linda Smith, Davida Barter, Maureen Provencal and Nancy Ames preparing ornaments. (photo by Jeff Powers)
The General Federation of Women’s Clubs (GFWC) Semper Fidelis, of Skowhegan, proudly donated $305 each to Canine Companions for Independence and the Somerset Humane Society. Also donated to the local shelter were 32 bags of dog and cat food, 118 cans of cat food, 12 bags of dog treats, dog harnesses, collars, and toys, 4 dog beds, cleaning supplies, blankets, and towels.
Community member Tori and her dog Charlie, with member Maureen Provencal and volunteer Mike painting paws to print the finished ornaments. (photo by Jeff Powers)
Sixty unfinished round ornaments, red and green acrylic paints, and mini poinsettia garnishes were purchased, then painted and assembled by members of the club for “Paws for a Cause” to make keepsake paw print Christmas ornaments.
A local brewery donated space the morning of the annual Skowhegan Holiday Stroll for this event. The price to participate was set at $10 per ornament plus a donation of either a bag of dog food or canned cat food.
Stations were set up around the brewery to allow for social distancing, consisting of check in, donation drop off area, painting of the paw print by covering a sponge with non-toxic acrylic paint and pressing it onto the dog’s paw, then onto a piece of paper (no easy task!) and finally, drying the print with a hair dryer and placing it into the ornament frame. There were also photo opportunities provided for the pets with an elf cut out dogs could put their face through or sitting in an oversized Adirondack chair.
While several members and their families helped the day of the event, others helped by making and wrapping 120 homemade dog treats for the participants to take home with them.
The event sold out of all ornaments and many community members have already asked if the club will be doing it again next year.
Paws for a Cause ornaments. (photo by Jeff Powers)