Mid-Maine Chamber names new community engagement specialist

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Mid-Maine Chamber of Commerce welcomes Michael Guarino as its new Community Engagement Specialist.

Michael Guarino

Guarino, who was the associate director for the Maine Sports Commission and former community relations director at Snow Pond Center for the Arts, in Sidney, has 25 years of tourism, community relations, and event experience in Maine. He currently chairs the Kennebec Valley Tourism Council and has operated Maine Wilderness Tours since 1996.

Guarino is a graduate of Thomas College, in Waterville, with a master’s degree in business administration and a bachelor’s degree in marketing/management.

This new position will work with event organizers to secure the Mid-Maine region as their destination for a variety of events and conferences while developing and implementing strategies to engage local businesses.

Mid-Maine Chamber President and CEO Kimberly Lindlof said of Guarino, “Mike brings a vast knowledge of event and tourism expertise, destination management experience, and business connectivity to our team. We are excited to have a point person here at the Chamber to roll out the red carpet for event organizers interested in bringing their activities to our region. Staff and volunteers alike are pleased to welcome him onboard.”

Sheepscot Lake Association fall newsletter

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submitted by Maria O’Rourke,
SLA President

The saying, “time flies when you’re having fun” certainly holds true when it comes to summer on Sheepscot Lake! The 2023 season is now in the books and the Sheepscot Lake Association is reflecting on our activities and projects, as well as looking ahead to 2024.

June had us hiring and training our three Courtesy Boat Inspectors, who check for invasive species on boats and trailers entering and leaving the lake. This program is made possible in part due to a grant from the Maine DEP, as well as your membership dues. The rainy season was tricky to navigate, but 85 inspections were completed this season and zero invasive species were found! Thank you to our CBI team for your efforts – Alex Reichtel, Addison Turner and Olivia Childs.

Our annual 4th of July Boat Parade was successfully held in between the raindrops! Despite the questionable weather, 26 boats participated. Thank you to our 2023 Grand Marshal Tim Paul, a former board member and original CBI Coordinator. We look forward to another fun-filled parade in 2024!

SLA’s annual General Membership meeting was held in July at the Fish and Game on Rte 3. This year was a “dessert potluck,” and there were numerous yummy treats shared! This was a chance for residents to meet with neighbors, learn about our programs, renew memberships and hear our guest speaker. This year we were visited by Shawn Herbert, the Harbormaster of Naples, who discussed the recent Mooring Ordinance passed by the Town of Palermo. This ordinance will go into effect in 2024. For more information about the ordinance and its importance, please visit www.townofpalermo.org and look under Ordinances.

Sheepscot’s water quality has been tested throughout the summer for clarity, dissolved oxygen levels, and phosphorus levels. As has been the case over the years, Sheepscot has healthy levels in all categories, and we have a lot to be grateful for! Thank you to Jeff Levesque, our volunteer water quality tester!

Our online store has been filling merchandise orders all summer. In addition to the shirts and tote bag from last year, we have now added more shirt designs, sweatshirts, and a coffee mug! Your purchase enables us to continue to provide programs that help keep Sheepscot Lake healthy. Please visit www.bonfire.com/store/sheepscot-lake-association to browse our selections!

If you have not renewed your membership, or have yet to become a member, please visit our website at https://sheepscotlakeassociation.com where you can renew or join by paying via paypal. Or, you can send a check to Sheepscot Lake Association, Box 300, Palermo, ME 04354. Our membership dues have not risen since our inception over a dozen years ago! Can you say the same about anything else these days? Individual – $20, Family $30, Patron $50. We would not be able to provide what we do without your support!

We could also use your help by volunteering as well. Our LakeSmart Team needs some evaluators, and if you are interested you would receive training online this off-season and be able to join us in 2024. LakeSmart is a state-wide educational outreach program coordinated by Maine Lakes that helps waterfront property owners keep their spaces “lake friendly” and free from erosion. Interested homeowners reach out and evaluators determine whether the property has any erosion issues and offer advice on how to combat it. Stormwater runoff from roads, driveways, and properties can be detrimental to the health of the lake. LakeSmart gives homeowners tips and tools to keep erosion at bay. The Lake Association completed two evaluations this season and we hope to increase that next year. If you are interested in having your property evaluated, or in being trained as an evaluator, please email us at sheepscotlakeassoc@gmail.com

Another opportunity to become involved will present itself in the late spring/early summer of 2024 when we hope to host an on-site Invasive Plant Patrol Training Workshop. This program is run by the Lake Stewards of Maine, who will come to our lake to train us on determining the difference between invasive and native plants. After the training on land, we will go on a “paddle patrol” in kayaks to inspect the plants in their habitat. Once the training is completed, participants will then feel confident to go on “patrol” whenever they are on a kayak ride. This will enable us to “inspect” the lake much more broadly than just the boats coming in and out of the launch. If you are interested in being put on a list to join the Invasive Plant Patrol training in 2024, please send us an email at sheepscotlakeassoc@gmail.com

To keep up with Sheepscot Lake Association’s activities, please visit our website and “like” and join our Facebook page. Thank you for your continued support in keeping Sheepscot Lake as healthy as it is! Please enjoy a happy winter season and we will see you on the lake in 2024!

Thank you for your support.

AARP Maine seeks applicants for new volunteer state president

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AARP Maine seeks applications for a new Volunteer State President, a lead volunteer position that reports directly to the AARP Maine State Director and works closely with AARP staff and volunteers on a range of key issues that impact Mainers 50-plus. Applications will be accepted until October 31, 2023.

“The central pillar of AARP Maine’s mission is to help Mainers 50-plus and their families age with dignity and respect,” says Noël Bonam, AARP Maine State Director. “The role of the Volunteer State President is an integral part our work to advance AARP’s social mission in Maine. We seek a passionate, strategic thinker with outstanding leadership qualities and the ability to collaborate, motivate and inspire others as we work together towards this mission.”

The Volunteer State President works closely with hundreds of AARP Maine volunteers supporting important advocacy issues at the state and federal level. Advocacy activities include testifying on bills at the state legislature, bringing concerns and issues to Maine’s Congressional Delegation, representing AARP Maine in local media, hosting and speaking at local events, and providing inspiration and guidance to a growing body of volunteer advocates in the Pine Tree State.

Responsibilities of this volunteer role also include the sharing of information and resources on topics such as caregiving, fraud prevention, Social Security and Medicare. The Volunteer State President will lead events and work with local officials to bolster efforts that make Maine communities more age-friendly.

“This leadership volunteer position offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to utilize one’s skills and experiences to make a positive difference in the lives of all older Mainers and their families,” Bonam says. “The successful candidate will serve as a pivotal member of the AARP Maine team and our work on behalf of our more than 200,000 members in the state.”

The Volunteer Maine State President will:

● Serve as Chairman of the Executive Council, an all-volunteer panel made up of leaders from across the state and the AARP State Director.
● Report to the State Director and support staff and volunteers to help achieve AARP’s vision, mission and strategic priorities within Maine.
● Act as the primary volunteer spokesperson for AARP Maine, communicating AARP’s messages statewide.
● Have the opportunity to build networks and partnerships with organizations and key Maine decision-makers that will endure long after their term in office.
● Be governed by the policies and procedures of the Association.

Eligibility:

● An AARP membership is required.
● A commitment to the goals and priorities of AARP, a strictly non-partisan organization.
● An ability to lead in a collaborative manner.
● A proven track-record in strategic thinking and planning abilities.
● An inspiring team player with strong interpersonal skills, particularly in understanding group dynamics and facilitation.
● An excellent public speaker with strong oral and written communication skills.

To see a full list of responsibilities and qualifications or to apply by October 31, 2023, please click here.

To learn more about AARP and our work in Maine, visit www.aarp.org/me and follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @aarpmaine.

An afternoon of viewing a slice of the ‘Roaring ‘20s’

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The audience takes a trip to the past with silent films at the Vassalboro Historical Society. (photo by Roberta Barnes)

by Roberta Barnes

Sunday October 15, 2023, the Vassalboro Historical Society opened a window into the past by showing silent films written and produced by Holman F. Day, a native of Vassalboro.

photo by Roberta Barnes

These black and white silent windows into the past remind us of the importance of body language, musical sounds, and even tapping of the foot. While in silent films we cannot hear what is spoken, the actions and body language of the characters speak in a language sometimes overlooked.

Another important part of silent films, just as in films today, was always the piano or organ music. At one time I spoke to an older woman who had watched silent movies in theaters and said how there was always a piano player. It is the music that tells you if a person is joyfully running to something or fearfully running from something. Sunday in Vassalboro Joel Estes, a music teacher from Temple Academy, in Waterville, with his electric keyboard provided the perfect sound background that enhanced the actors’ actions.

Prior to showing the first silent film, Suzanne Griffiths presented the history of Holman F. Day, born in Vassalboro 1865. Griffiths covered his career as a newspaper man, journalist, novelist, poet, and filmmaker. While she spoke, the society’s president Janice Clowes, and others set up the popcorn maker and made certain there was enough coffee and bottled water for film viewers.

David Theriault explained differences to expect between black and white silent films of yesterday, and today’s movies filled with special effects. Any needed dialogue and background story appears written in full screen rather than in captions as we see in today’s films. Once people sat down with popcorn the lights were turned off, and the score or music introduced the film Knight of the Pines. This silent comedy filmed in the cold around Augusta, Maine, in 1920 was produced by Holman Day Film Company.

Following a short intermission, more popcorn and Kent London speaking about Day’s life, the lights were again turned off. Music introduced the 1921 silent film Brother of the Bear. Written by Day, this film introduces a tame bear adopted by a man living in a shack in the forest. Between the body language of those not knowing the bear had been trained, and the keyboard sounds, spoken words are not required to know what is happening in the film.

The afternoon of delights from the 1920s ended with the silent film, My Lady O’ the Pines. It revolves around Norah Collison, a young woman who owns a huge timberland in Maine, full of white pines. Collison is played by Mary Astor, who later became one of Hollywood’s big stars.

The afternoon of visiting a part of our past closed with a raffle of several donated arrangements of white roses.

Roberta Barnes is a freelance contributor to The Town Line.

photo by Roberta Barnes

Beyond International Credit Union Day

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Ryan Poulin, center, CEO of New Dimensions FCU, prepares to cut the ribbon at a special ceremony commemorating the opening of the credit union’s new Waterville location in 2020. (contributed photo)

At New Dimensions Federal Credit Union, every day is Member Appreciation Day. While they look forward to celebrating International Credit Union Day with their members on October 19th, they strive to show their appreciation to their members year-round by offering services, products, and continuous commitment to financial education and community enrichment.

“Our mission is to help our members achieve financial security and add value to their lives by showing them how to build a solid financial foundation,” stated Ryan Poulin, CEO. They offer competitive rates on loans and deposits, robust digital banking tools, and personalized service to meet each member’s unique needs. Their financial coaches provide guidance to help members reach their goals, whether saving for a down payment, paying off debt, or planning for retirement.

Giving back is the core of who they are at NDFCU. Last year alone, they raised over $50,000 for impactful organizations like the Maine Children’s Cancer Program, Special Olympics Maine, and the Maine Credit Union League’s Ending Hunger in Maine campaign. They believe in investing in the next generation, so they awarded $5,000 in scholarships to two graduating high school seniors each year to support their first year of college.

In 2022, their financial coaches logged over 130 hours teaching financial literacy in area schools and organizations. The NDFCU staff logged over 1,700 volunteer hours in 2022, and so far this year, they have already volunteered over 1,300 hours with worthy causes. They are proud to actively partner with local nonprofits to support affordable housing initiatives, food banks and pantries, health and wellness programs, and more. Finally, the credit union paid out over $575,000 in dividends in 2022, demonstrating their unwavering dedication to providing meaningful benefits and returns to member-owners. At NDFCU, they are dedicated to giving back and making a positive difference in their communities.

While the gifts and prizes on International Credit Union Day are their way of saying thanks for being a member, they feel that the real gift is the opportunity to help their members every day of the year. Our members are not just members; they have an ownership stake in New Dimensions FCU, and together, they are working to build a stronger, more equitable community.

Real ID deadline is 2025

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The REAL ID deadline is now May 2025, yet the multiple extensions have caused confusion among the general public. When Maine residents were asked what they believe the deadline to be, the average answer given is on October 5, 2023.
If you still haven’t made the switch, you’re not alone: 76 percent of residents in Maine still haven’t gotten their new card, according to a poll from Upgraded Points.
Additionally, 18 percent report not even knowing what a REAL ID is and 30 percent say they don’t know how to get it. Thirty-eight percent do not plan to get one at all.

Vassalboro Historical Society quilt show a success

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submitted by Janice Clowes

During the weekend of October 7 & 8, 2023, the Vassalboro Historical Society (VHS) held a Quilt Show and a raffle. The quilt exhibit showcased vintage, heritage and contemporary quilts that were donated to the Society over the years. Two quilts were donated as part of the raffle. One quilt was a lovely twin quilt in blue, black, and white made by Judy Wentworth Goodrich.

Another quilt sewn by Peggy Dore Lawrence was donated for a raffle item. This quilt was of particular interest due to its connection with Peggy’s mother Phyillis Dore who donated her time and efforts throughout her life to the betterment of her community. The quilt was a “Crazy Quilt” pattern using fabrics that Phyillis had collected through the years. Phyillis’ quote “No Scrap Would be Left Behind” was the sentiment of the quilt donated.

The quilts were last displayed 18 years ago, in 2005. At that time the museum displayed approximately 20 quilts and coverlets. Since that time more than 30 additional quilts have been added to the VHS collection and range in historical value from the early 1800’s to the present.

The quilts were presented throughout the building (the former East Vassalboro Grammar School) and incorporated the fabrics to enhance its many ongoing exhibits.

The displays also centered around the month-long fundraising event which was a raffle showcasing various Vassalboro businesses, farms and individual patrons with values nearing $3,000.

VHS would like to thank the many patrons who supported by both donating the raffle items and those that took time to come and enjoy the quilts.

They look forward to future events of this kind and will keep you posted via VHS Facebook, Instagram (@vassalboroHistoricalSociety), website www.vhsme.org or you can call the museum at 207-923-3505 or email at vhspresident@gmail.com.

Photos of some of the quilts at the Quilt Show and raffle (photos by Laura Jones):

photo by Laura Jones

photo by Laura Jones

photo by Laura Jones

photo by Laura Jones

photo by Laura Jones

photo by Laura Jones

photo by Laura Jones

China student honored at Annual SkillsUSA Workforce Development Event

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Galen Neal

A career and technical student in China was recognized for excellence at the 2023 SkillsUSA Championships, held in Atlanta, on June 21-22. More than 6,000 students competed at the national showcase of career and technical education. The SkillsUSA Championships is the largest skill competition in the world and covers 1.79 million square feet, equivalent to 31 football fields or 41 acres.

Galen Neal, from China and a student at Mid-Maine Technical Center (Waterville), was awarded a Skill Point Certificate in Photography.

Skill Point Certificates were awarded to all national contestants who met a threshold contest score. The Skill Point Certificate represents workplace readiness in the occupational specialty and students can add the certificate to their employment portfolio as an indicator of proficiency.

Students were invited to the event to demonstrate their technical skills, workplace skills and personal skills in 110 hands-on competitions including robotics, automotive technology, drafting, criminal justice, aviation maintenance and public speaking. Industry leaders from 650 businesses, corporations, trade associations and unions planned and evaluated the contestants against their standards for entry-level workers. Industry support of the SkillsUSA Champ­ionships is valued at over $36 million in donated time, equipment, cash and material. More than 1,200 industry judges and technical committee members participated this year. All SkillsUSA Championships competitors were honored on Friday night, June 23 at the SkillsUSA Awards Session at State Farm Arena.

The SkillsUSA Championships event is held annually for students in middle school, high school or college/postsecondary programs as part of the SkillsUSA National Leadership & Skills Conference. The national, nonprofit partnership of students, instructors and industry is a verified talent pipeline for America’s skilled workforce that is working to help solve the skills gap.

Timmins joins CMGC staff

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Nicole Timmins

The Central Maine Growth Council (CMGC), a public-private collaborative economic development partnership, is pleased to announce the appointment of Nicole Timmins as Grant and Finance Manager. Nicole is responsible for overseeing CMGC’s granting efforts, which include optimizing the grant administration process, preparing financial reports, and ensuring compliance with grant regulations.

Nicole’s work will directly support CMGC’s existing funding landscape in addition to being responsible for overseeing CMGC’s Economic Recovery Implementation Hub activities throughout Kennebec and Somerset Counties.

“I am excited for the opportunity to collaborate with an organization that champions business interests across all sectors, offering tailored solutions to support operational growth,” remarked Timmins. “The prospect of spearheading impactful initiatives that empower entrepreneurs and reduce obstacles they face is deeply motivating. I am committed to driving ongoing advancement in this space.”

Nicole brings previous experience as the Director of Finance at Care & Comfort, where she oversaw all aspects of the finance department, including managing staff, billing, accounts receivable and payable, payroll, and reconciling the general ledger. Her experience monitoring fee schedules to ensure compliance with various provider contracts and funding sources demonstrates Nikki’s familiarity with financial management.

Nicole holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Maine at Orono in Mass Communications.

Better Business Bureau: Online shopping scams

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Recently, BBB Scam Tracker has received multiple reports of an online shopping scam on TikTok. It’s a sneaky one! It starts with a disgruntled employee supposedly seeking revenge and ends with victims ordering hundreds of dollars in phony merchandise.

How the scam works

You come across a TikTok video featuring someone claiming they were recently fired at a high-end jewelry store. The termination was completely undeserved, and they are angry. To take their revenge, they are sharing their top-secret employee discount code with anyone who wants it. This code gives you up to 100 percent off the company’s merchandise. That’s right, they claim you can get expensive jewelry for free! As long as you’re willing to pay shipping, that is.

You may notice some red flags when you checkout using the ex-employee discount code. One consumer reported: “As you add more things from the website to your cart, the shipping cost increases disproportionately… However, this still seems like a ‘deal’ because you are getting a 100% discount on (faux) jewelry that costs $100-200.” However, that’s not the only warning sign. The consumer added, “There is no cancellation mechanism on their website/order confirmation email, no social media, no address, and no phone number. You can only contact them via an email address.”

If you fall for this scam, you won’t receive the high-quality jewelry you thought you ordered. You may get cheaply made knockoffs – or nothing at all. Also, you’ll be out any money you spent on “shipping” too.

The current version of this scam involves a jewelry store, but watch out for other variations as scammers change their schemes to avoid detection. This con would work with high-cost items like electronics or designer handbags.

How to avoid online shopping scams

Don’t fall for deals that are too good to be true. Scammers love to draw people in with this bait. If a deal seems extraordinarily good, stay skeptical. Research the company thoroughly before you buy.

Only shop with reputable companies. It’s always best to shop with companies you already know and trust. That said, if you come across an appealing item from an unfamiliar business, it’s especially important to do research. Look up the company’s website, physical address, and contact information. Read reviews from customers on third-party websites and review comments left on their social media pages, too. You can even search the company name and the word “scam” just to be safe.

Always make payments with your credit card. When shopping online, use your credit card to pay. Controlling fraudulent charges (and possibly getting your money back) will be much easier with this payment method.

For more information

For more tips and advice, review the BBB Tip: Smart shopping online. You may find the BBB social media scams page helpful as well.

If you spot a scam on social media or elsewhere, report it to BBB.org/ScamTracker. Your report can help us build consumer awareness and scammers in their tracks.