Matthew G. Parent, of Oakland, a junior majoring in software engineering, was named to the dean’s list for the Fall 2023 semester at Clarkson University, in Potsdam, New York.
Advances in technology provide more precise radiation therapy options for patients. On January 15, the team at Northern Light Radiation Oncology ushered in a new chapter by treating patients using a state-of-the-art linear accelerator.
With enhanced automation, and a flexible high-performing radiation beam, the new linear accelerator generates superior imaging techniques with lower doses of radiation. It uses the tiniest measurement in the industry, sub-millimeters, to provide pin-point radiation beam accuracy that targets cancerous areas in the body. These enhanced features make wait times shorter, and treatment faster and safer for patients.
“With more people living longer with cancer, the need to provide cancer treatment is growing,” says Donna Boehm, RN, MSN, MPH, vice president, Oncology Services, Northern Light Health. “Our new linear accelerator better positions Northern Light Cancer Care to ensure our patients’ needs are met now and for years to come.”
This new technology is made possible using funds raised through private support, including money raised through EMMC’s Champion the Cure Challenge.
Members of the media interested in seeing a demonstration of the new linear accelerator and speaking to a subject matter expert may contact the marketing and communications team by calling the media line at 207-973-9530 or by email at emmcmediarequest@northernlight.org.
Darrin and Sarah White, proud parents, stand on either side of their Eagle Scout, son Dawson, following the presentation of the Eagle Scout rank to him during a ceremony at the Augusta Lodge of Elks on January 6. (Photo by Chuck Mahaleris)
Dawson James White, 18, of Sidney, was presented with Scouting’s highest rank, the Eagle Scout, during a ceremony at the Augusta Elks, on January 6, 2024, which capped off an eleven-year Scouting career. “I learned so much in Scouting,” White said. “I learned survival skills, people skills and how to be a decent person in Scouting.”
“This is an occasion for pride and joy, as well as a time for serious reflection,” said former Troop #401 Scoutmaster Ryan Poulin, who served as Master of Ceremonies.
“The Eagle Scout rank is the highest recognition Scouting offers a Scout. It is earned through the advancement program, and only a small percentage of youth who begin in Scouting are recognized with this honor. In full awareness of the challenge of these times, the parents and leaders of this Eagle Scout have labored long and faithfully to develop him to be alert and to participate in citizenship through the Scouting program. His efforts culminate today in the presentation of the Eagle Scout Badge. The success of these efforts will become evident in the way this Eagle Scout will set his social pattern for all the lives he may touch. Democracy is a fresh conquest for each generation.”
Dawson, who lives in Sidney, is now a Junior Assistant Scoutmaster in Troop #401 and will become an Assistant Scoutmaster after he turns 21. He graduated from the Maine Virtual Academy and is working full time at Rainbow Valley Dairy Farm. He said he had many great experiences in Scouting.
He enjoyed the Troop’s trip to Gettysburg, camping at Camp Bomazeen, the West Point Camporee, and overnights aboard the USS Massachusetts (BB-59) in Battleship Cove in Fall River, Massachusetts. “I built a bunker gear dryer for the Sidney fire department’s turnout gear so it will take a day instead of a week to dry and built shelving for above their new extractor which is an industrial washing machine. They also had a six inch ledge that had no safety marker on it so we did that,” Dawson said of his Eagle Scout project that benefited the Sidney Volunteer Fire Department. Overall, 80 hours of volunteer work were spent on the project. “I know several people who are firemen and was really happy to help out.”
Troop #401 Committee Chairman Andy Steinberger said, “To a Scout, bravery means not only the courage to face physical danger, but the determination to stand up for what is right. While trusting in God with faith in his fellow citizens, he looks forward to each day, seeking his share of the world’s work.”
The Eagle Scout medal was pinned to his uniform by his mother and Dawson in turn presented pins to his parents Darin and Sarah White.
Sarah White pins the Eagle Scout rank onto the uniform of her son Dawson. He started the Scouting path 11 years earlier as a Tiger Cub and has reached the highest level of Scouting. (Photo by Chuck Mahaleris)
Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU), in Manchester, New Hampshire, congratulates the following students on being named to the Fall 2023 president’s list. The fall terms run from September to December.
Ivette Hernandez Cortez, of Augusta; Sarah Neumann, and Matthew Bandyk, both of Jefferson; Sierra Winson, Quincy Giustra, and Talon Mosher, all of Winslow; Candice Eaton, and Grace Marshall, both of Waterville; Ashley Parks, of Anson; Stormy Wentworth, of Fairfield; Misty Ray, of Montville; Matthew Clements, of Rome; and Kassandra Grant, of Vassalboro.
Brianna Paine, of Madison, was named to the Fall 2023 dean’s list at Berry College, in Rome, Georgia. The dean’s list honors students who posted an academic average of 3.5 or better on a 4.0 scale while carrying a class load of at least 12 hours during the semester.
Lady beetle
by Roland D. HalleeAll of a sudden, there they were. One was walking up the side of my computer monitor at work, the other, traversing across the top of my steering wheel on my home from work later that day. And finally, on the east side of my house, in the windows, the following morning at sunrise.
Lady beetles, ladybugs, or ladybird beetles are among the most visible and best known beneficial predatory insects. Over 450 species are found in North America. Some are native and some have been introduced from other countries.
Just to set the record straight, they are not bugs, but beetles.
Most lady beetles in North America are beneficial as both adults and larvae, feeding primarily on aphids. They also feed on mites, small insects, and insect eggs. The two exceptions are the introduced Mexican bean beetle, and the squash beetle. The adults and larvae of both species feed on plants.
Lady beetles are usually red or orange with black markings. Some lady beetles are black, often with red markings. They have alligator-like larvae.
Many crops benefit from lady beetles. They are helpful for growers of vegetables, grain crops, legumes, strawberries, and tree crops; however any crop that is attacked by aphids will benefit from these beetles.
Most lady beetles found on crops and in gardens are aphid predators. Some species prefer only certain aphid species while others will attack many aphid species on a variety of crops. Some prefer mite or scale species. If aphids are scarce, lady beetle adults and larvae may feed on the eggs of moths and beetles, and mites, thrips, and other small insects, as well as pollen and nectar. They may also be cannibalistic. Because of their ability to survive on other prey when aphids are in short supply, lady beetles are particularly valuable natural enemies.
Adult lady beetles are small, round to oval, and dome-shaped. The most well known have black markings on red, orange, or yellow forewings, but some are black. The area immediately behind the head, the pronotum, may also have a distinctive pattern. The color and pattern of markings for each species may vary, but can aid identification.
Lady beetles overwinter as adults, often in aggregations along hedgerows, beneath leaf litter, under rocks and bark, and in other protected places including buildings. In spring, the adults disperse in search of prey and suitable egg laying sites. This dispersal trait, especially strong in migratory species such as the commercially available convergent lady beetle, can affect the reliability of control by released adult beetles.
Lady beetles are voracious feeders and may be numerous where prey are plentiful and broad-spectrum insecticide use is limited. Lady beetles need to eat many aphids per day so that they can lay eggs. The convergent lady beetle may eat its weight in aphids every day as a larva and consume as many as 50 aphids per day as an adult. Sevenspotted lady beetle adults may consume several hundred aphids per day and each larva eats 200 to 300 aphids as it grows. Once the adults and larvae have eliminated an aphid colony, they will search for additional food.
Lady beetles are effective predators if aphids are abundant (high pest density) but are thought to be less effective at low pest densities. There may also be some crop damage before lady beetles have an impact on an aphid population.
Most lady beetle species are active from late spring to early fall if food is available. Lady beetles are mobile as adults and reasonably so as larvae, and they are generalists. They will not remain on a plant, or in the vicinity, once the readily accessible prey has been consumed.
Early season populations of some lady beetles may develop on aphid-infested perennials or shrubs. Collection and redistribution of lady beetles is effective but time consuming. The beetles should be handled gently and placed in groups at the base of plants, rather than broadcast. Hibernating adults, congregating in protected spaces, should not be disturbed as they are vulnerable to attack by predators and parasitoids if uncovered.
Name the four NFL franchises to have never appeared in a Super Bowl.
WATERVILLE – Anna Elizabeth Thomas Mitchell, 97, passed away on Thursday, December 21, 2023, in Waterville. She was born in Waterville, on January 3, 1926, daughter of Peter and Jamillia Rumya Thomas.
Anna was educated in Waterville schools, graduating from Waterville High School in 1944. Besides enjoying her academic classes, Anna was a spirited high school basketball fan. She always remembered with gratitude that her role as a cheerleader afforded her the opportunity to attend all the games, especially the exciting out-of-state games when Waterville competed for, and won, the New England Championship title. She subsequently served on all her class reunion committees, including the 40th, which was featured in the magazine Mainely Local. She married her husband of more than 61 years, Saliem “Sammy” Mitchell, on January 5, 1947, in Waterville.
In 1953, Anna began working at Scott Paper Company (then Hollingsworth & Whitney Paper Mill), in Winslow, where she held various positions during her 33-year career with the company. She belonged to several professional organizations.
A member of St. Joseph Maronite Catholic Church, Anna served on the Parish Council and scholarship committee, as well as other committees, and was active in church events. She was also a member of the Maronite Guild and the Rosary Sodality.
In 2013 she was honored to play a role, with her daughter, in helping the Holocaust and Human Rights Center, whose mission is to promote respect for human rights through outreach and education, create the month-long exhibit: Life by the Two-Cent Bridge: The Lebanese Community in Waterville.
In the years following her retirement, Anna continued to pursue her daily interests of playing the piano, reading, knitting, solving crossword puzzles, and cooking, especially large amounts of Lebanese food to share with family and friends. She rarely missed her monthly luncheons and card-playing afternoons with her high school friends. Anna was a volunteer at MaineGeneral Medical Center for 24 years, serving in various departments.
Included among her greatest joys were the many summers spent with family and friends on Long Pond, in Belgrade Lakes. In later years, she spent several weeks each summer on other nearby lakes. She really enjoyed camp life and swam in the waters of McGrath Pond beyond her 80th year.
Despite having experienced several unexpected and deeply personal losses of close family members throughout her life, she was always there to offer comfort to others.
Anna was predeceased by her parents; her husband, Sammy; son-in-law, Rob; granddaughter, Emily Elizabeth; sisters Sadie Ferris, Tekla Stevens, and Freda Annino; brothers Elias, David, and John Thomas; all their spouses; Sammy’s siblings and spouses; in-laws, Elias and Mary Nagem Mitchell; and several nieces and nephews, including, Patricia, Carla Jean, Michael, and Paul Ferris who were like sons and daughters to her.
She is survived by her daughter, Cynthia, and many nieces and nephews.
Services will be held at a later date.
Arrangements are under the direction and care of Gallant Funeral Home, 10 Elm St, Waterville. An online guestbook may be signed, condolences and memories shared at http://www.gallantfh.com.
Those who wish may make donations in her memory to St Joseph Maronite Church, 3 Appleton St., Waterville, ME 04901.
PALERMO – William “Bill” H. Sawyer, 77, died on Sunday, December 24, 2023, in Bangor. He was born on October 14, 1946, in Houlton, the son of George R. and Jean (Grange) Sawyer.
William graduated from Ricker Classical Institute in 1964, and the University of Maine, Orono, in 1968, with a degree in civil engineering. After graduating, William worked for the Iowa State D.O.T. for a few months until he was drafted into the U.S. Army. He served in Vietnam as a light weapons specialist and a scout dog handler. He walked point with his dog DUG112M. Returning from Vietnam he worked for a large engineering firm in New York until he moved back to Maine to work for the Maine State D.O.T. where he finished his career and retired in June of 1995.
He was a member of the DeMolay, a past master of Island Falls Lodge #206 AF & AM and a member of Kennebec Lodge #5, a Kora Shrines Klown, and belonged to several other lodges of the York Rite, a volunteer tutor at the local Palermo schools, and a member of several other organizations. He was an avid UMO Black Bear athletics fan and traveled near and far following the teams to show his support.
He is survived by his three siblings, George (Jane) Sawyer, of Sweden, Michael (Cheryl) Sawyer, of Merrill, and Maryanne Hare, of Houlton; three nieces and four nephews and their children; many cousins.
He was predeceased by his parents; and his brother-in-law, Michael Hare.
A funeral service will be held at 1 p.m., on Friday, January 19, 2024, at the Maine Veterans Cemetery, in Augusta, 163 Mount Vernon Rd., Augusta. To share condolences and memories online visit http://www.bowersfuneral.com.
CHELSEA – Falan Marie Copage (Durgin), 41, of Chelsea, passed away on Tuesday, January 2, 2024, at Maine Medical Center, in Portland.
Falan attended Elsipogtog High School, in New Brunswick, Canada. She was passionate about crafts and cooking, spending much of her time caring for others.
Falan is survived by her mother, Angela Durgin, of Chelsea; and her children, Isaac Copage, Noah Copage, Nicholas Copage, and Mary Shayla Copage, all of Chelsea; her son, Alexander Copage Wing, of Monmouth; her brother, Jason Morgan, of Winslow; and her stepmother, Lyndy Morgan (Smith), of Augusta; grandmother, Margaret Rose Copage, of Chelsea; her boyfriend, Jason Stanley, of Portland, as well as numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.
A Celebration of Life service was held at the American Legion, located at 396 Eastern Ave., Augusta, Maine 04330.
Contributions in Falan’s memory can be made to the Preble Street Organization for the homeless.
WATERVILLE – Nancy L. Boulette, 78, passed away on Thursday, January 4, 2024, at MaineGeneral Hospital, in Augusta. Nancy was born in Waterville, on April 29, 1945.
Nancy was employed at Hannaford Supermarkets for 15 years, but her most significant role in life was that of mother, wife, grandmother, and sister. She enjoyed playing Bingo, Yahtzee, and scratching her lottery tickets in the morning. After she retired, Nancy and her husband Jim, took an extended trip across the country, and she enjoyed traveling with her sisters to exciting locations like Hawaii and Ireland. Nancy loved being with family and feeding her birds and wildlife in her backyard while drinking her Pepsi each day.
She was predeceased by her husband James E. Boulette, mother Cecile Tardiff, father Philip Bernard, sister Patricia Senus, brothers, Terry Bernard and Ronald Bouchard, and son-in-law Bob Simpson.
She is survived by her four children, Lori Simpson, Jeffrey Gilbert (Sharon), Wendy Bard (Jon), Cathy Hotham (Fred); grandchildren, Dustin Davidson, Matthew Davidson, Chris Lavalley, Tyler Bard, Charles Simpson, Meaghan Gilbert and Caleb Hotham; four great-grandchildren; sisters, Brenda Hawkins, Jackie Grenier, and Cynthia Delile; and her brother Roger Bouchard.
A Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, January 20, 2024, at 11 a.m., at the Notre Dame Church, 116 Silver Street, Waterville Maine 04901.
Please visit Nancy’s memorial page at http://www.dsfuneral.com/obituaries/nancy-boulette where condolences, photos, and special memories may be shared.
FAIRFIELD – Albert Bellows, 82, of Fairfield died peacefully Saturday, January 6, 2024, at home. He was born in Waterville to George and Mildred Bellows on March 16, 1941.
He married his wife Irene on January 8, 1960. They had six children.
Albert retired from Scott Paper Co., in Winslow, after 32 years. He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting, fishing, and trapping. He collected guns, knives, and bullets. He traveled around Maine, walking through the woods and could find any pond you asked him about. He was a registered Maine Guide, a lifetime member of the National Rifle Association, Maine Trappers Association, North American Fishing Club, and the North American Hunting Club. He has many ribbons for shooting from The Maine Muzzle loaders at competitions from around Maine.
He had a way of making any room quiet, telling stories of where he hunted and fished, deer he shot, friends he was with, shooting down Christmas trees, and pranks he played.
He was predeceased by his wife Irene, Son Albert Jr., and Parents George and Mildred.
He is survived by his daughters Patricia Rucci, of Clarksville, Tennessee, Dawn Buzzell and husband Brian, of Fairfield, Pamela Connors, of El Paso, Texas, and Jennifer Palow and husband Kevin; of Clinton; and son Joseph Bellows, of Clarksville, Tennessee; his brother Richard and wife Diana Bellows, of Pittsfield; sisters Diane Perry, of Peebles, Ohio and Cathy and husband George Ouellette, of Monmouth.
There will be a celebration of life at the Fairfield VFW, on June 8, 2024, from 11a.m. – 2 p.m., with a graveside service at Howard Cemetery, in Winslow, immediately following.
Arrangements are in the care of Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 107 Main St., Fairfield where memories may be shared, and an online register book signed by visiting http://www.lawrybrothers.com.
WINSLOW – Mary Effie Nader, 79, of Winslow, passed away peacefully in her home on Saturday, January 6, 2024. Mary was born in Waterville on October 18, 1945, the daughter of Beatrice (Latulippe) and Charles Robinson.
Mary worked at a chicken factory, in Vassalboro, for some time. She then worked at Colby College, in Waterville, for 21 years where she retired.
Mary enjoyed scrapbooking, sewing, knitting, etc. She also enjoyed square dancing and ballroom dancing with her late husband. She enjoyed snowmobiling with friends. Mary spent most of her time with her two grandchildren. Mary was also known for always having social gatherings for every occasion.
She was predeceased by her husband Joseph Nader Jr., three brothers, six sisters, and her parents.
Surviving are her two daughters, Doreen Nader, of Winslow, Paula (Nader) Snow and her husband Thomas, of Wayne; two grandchildren Ben Hasson, of Columbus, Ohio; Christine Hasson, of Winslow; many nieces, nephews, and special friends.
Her service will be held on Tuesday, January 23, 2024, at Saint Joseph Maronite Catholic Church, 3 Appleton Street, in Waterville, at 10 a.m. A burial will be scheduled at a later date.
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 http://www.gallantfh.com.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in the name of Mary Nader to Gallant Funeral Home.
AUGUSTA – Dianne L. Cates, 79, died peacefully on Sunday, January 7, 2024, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Augusta. Dianne was born March 17, 1944, in Waterville, the daughter of Wardell and Leontine (Poulin) Rancourt.
After graduating from Mount Merici Academy, in Waterville, Dianne, along with her brother, Al, and cousin, Roger, formed the folk group, The Kin Three. “One successful appearance after another…rocketed this talented trio to outstanding popularity in Maine their home state.”
Dianne was gifted and well known for her beautiful, sometimes angelic singing voice, her gregarious personality, her love of song which she delivered “with love and humor,” and her quick wit. In the early 1960s she, Al and Roger toured Maine and beyond, singing messages of peace and hope to the coffee house clientele, college students, senior living residents, church congregations, etc. In the mid ’60s the trio was chosen to represent the State of Maine at the World’s Fair, in New York, an opportunity that all three performers cherished and spoke of frequently. After the World’s Fair, life’s circumstances moved Al to new adventures and The Kin Three became Roger and Dianne.
Roger and Dianne continued to share their love of music while performing throughout Maine. One venue in particular that continued to be a favorite performance center for the locals, as well as summer visitors to Maine was the “Merry Barn”, in Edgecomb. It was at the “Merry Barn” that Dianne met her husband, Gerry Cates. The couple settled in Central Maine after they married in 1969. Dianne and Gerry continued to perform on high school and college campuses, entertained senior citizens in long term care facilities, played at weddings and other church functions and were delighted to share their music and talent with those folks who were willing to listen. Throughout her married life, Dianne continued to enjoy meeting friends and acquaintances for morning coffee with her husband of 54 years, Gerry. The laughter she often brought to conversations was contagious. Dianne’s “big” personality will be missed by the many people who knew and loved her.
Dianne is survived by her husband, Gerry; children Kristi, Zak, Darrin; four grandchildren, Emily, Megan, Isaac and Maxwell; sister, Celeste; brother, Peter (Kristan); two sisters-in-law, Sheila, Jocelyne; one maternal aunt, Lucille; several nephews, nieces; cousins.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, January 27, 2024, at 11 a.m., at CenterPoint Community Church, 155 West River Rd., Waterville.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St Jude’s Children’s Hospital or to a charity of your choice.
BENTON – Gary H. Bulger, 77, passed away after battling a long illness at Togus Veterans Hospital, in Augusta, early Monday morning, January 8, 2024. Gary was born in Waterville on March 11, 1946, the son of Fred Bulger and Una Bulger (Corbin).
Gary attended Winslow High School and enlisted in the U.S. Army and served with honor. He was stationed in Germany from 1964-1967. He arrived back to the States and married his high school sweetheart, Marlene Pomerleau, and started a family.
He owned and operated Bulger’s Body Shop and Used Cars, in Benton, for over 50 years. A business he was very passionate about. He loved his family, his dog, automobiles more than anything in the world, but he especially loved helping people.
He was an active member of the American Legion for over 24 years and served as Commander of Post #14, in Fairfield, from 2008-2011. In 2011 until 2012, Gary became the Department Chaplain. He went on to become the District 10 Commander from 2012-2013.
He was an active member of the Blinded Veterans Association and represented the organization at various events all over the country.
He was predeceased by his parents, Fred and Una Bulger; wife, Marlene Bulger (Pomerleau); his son Michael’s fiancée, Sarah Stetson; and niece, Tracy Grant.
He is survived by his long-term companion, Mary-Margaret A. Paradis; his sons Michael Bulger and Alex Ferrari (Bulger); grandchildren, Caleb, Seth, Isaac; their mother, Anita Prosser; as well as his granddaughter, Isabella; his sister, Marlene Grant (Bulger); sister-in-law, Brenda Beaulieu; son-in-law, Rick Ferrari; and nieces and nephews Cheryl Mansir (Grant), Timothy Grant, Toby Grant and Terri-Jean Wilkinson (Grant).
Interment with military honors will be held at the Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Niche Wall, on Civic Center Drive, in Augusta, in the spring, the date is to be determined.
Arrangements are in the care of Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 107 Main St., Fairfield where memories may be shared, and an online register book signed by visiting http://www.lawrybrothers.com.
FAIRFIELD – Kenneth “Kenny” Sanders, 77, passed away on Sunday, January 7, 2024, at MaineGeneral Medical Center. He was born in Waterville on October 26, 1946, the son of Kenneth and Louise Sanders.
He was a graduate of Lawrence High School, i9n Fairfield.
Kenny had an incredible work ethic no matter where he was employed, but he talked most fondly about his early years working on the West Coast in support of the NASA space program and his storied career at Keyes Fibre Company/Huhtamaki, in Waterville, where both of his parents, his brother-in-law Doug, and many other friends and family worked.
He started at the mill in April 1970 and made many deep, lasting friendships during his time there. During his tenure, he worked as a security guard, sergeant of security, supervisor, and production coordinator, but we all know if there was such a thing as a “Mayor of the Mill”, he was that guy. Safe to say it was impossible to walk with him from the north end to the south end in less than 30 minutes because so many people would stop him to chat about life or to pick his brain for advice. He spent just over 35 years at the mill, retiring in June 2005. To no one’s surprise, he returned after his retirement to do some occasional temp work to help out and keep in touch with some of his favorite people.
In his spare time, there were deer to be hunted, fish to be caught, and golf to be played with many of his family and friends. He and Sandy loved to travel to sunny Florida and historical Prince Edward Island, but they most enjoyed spending time on Maine’s coast in Ocean Point, eating seafood fresh off the boat near the winding roads lined with sea roses.
Kenny loved watching sports, especially when The Masters match was tight (and not so much when the Boston Red Sox or New England Patriots were losing). He enjoyed his soaps and spent many an afternoon watching the antics on the Young and the Restless with his sister, Alma, after they both lost their spouses, bonding over the rivalries and romance going on in Genoa City, Wisconsin.
Kenny was a man of service with a generous heart and spirit that guided him throughout his life. If there was a porch or car that needed repairs, landscaping that needed to be done, or hummingbirds needing to be fed, he was going to see that it got done. He loved to recommend and hire family or friends for these odd jobs, knowing that multiple people could benefit from just one simple act. He showed great concern and care for his aging family and friends, including his mom Louise and many of her siblings – and he made time to care for and visit them all. As noted by his dear brother-in-law, Russ, who knew Kenny so well, “For a man that was born with a faulty heart, he had one of the biggest around”.
He and Sandy loved to volunteer to serve holiday meals to veterans and those less fortunate, and one of his favorite memories was when his daughters Tammy and Kim joined them to distribute meals and were interviewed for the local news. He was truly proud. He deeply valued contributing to his community, fueled by his belief that no one should go to bed hungry. This inspired his invaluable work at the Fairfield Interfaith Food Pantry, where he volunteered, recruited help, and served on the board for over 20 years. He took pride in ensuring that the pantry was updated and outfitted with all of the necessities needed to meet the needs of the community for years to come, and would proudly give a tour to share each new facility upgrade as it happened.
He was truly one of a kind and is already deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
Kenny was predeceased in 2015 by his greatest love and wife of 25 years, Sandra; as well as his siblings Eileen, Noreen, and Alma.
He is survived by his children, sons Steven, Scott and Randy (and his wife Pam); daughters, Kim (and her husband Brent), and Tammy (and her partner Joey); son-in-law, Steve Denis; grandchildren Corey (and his wife Mackenzie), Kaylin (and her husband Joey), and Brandon; his brother-in-law, Russ; cousin, Mike Cilley, and the Bolduc clan; nephews Kevin, Kirk, and Curtis; and nieces Stacie and Aimee and their children
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, January 27, 2024, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Waterville Elks Lodge #905, on 76 Industrial Rd., in Waterville. If you’re so inclined, please bring a special story or fun memory to share.
Arrangements are in the care of Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 107 Main St., Fairfield where memories may be shared, and an online register book signed by visiting http://www.lawrybrothers.com.
Instead of flowers, please consider donating to The Fairfield Interfaith Food Pantry in Kenny’s name, and donations can be mailed to 23 Lawrence Ave., Fairfield, ME 04937.
WATERVILLE – Dolores N. Nawfel, passed away Tuesday, December 12, 2023, at Lakewood Manor, in Waterville. Born in 1929, in Waterville, she was the daughter of the late Richard D. Nawfel and Maria (Barakat) Nawfel.
She was a graduate of Waterville High School where she immersed herself in the joy of friendship through multiple school activities. She would often revisit a memorable short move of several months to Washington D.C. with three of her close friends. She worked for a bank and was accepted to a modeling school prior to returning to Waterville to assist with her ailing father. She was employed by her brother in his dental office before spending several years with the Bell Telephone Company, in Waterville.
Dolores married her lifetime spouse, affectionately known as “Mickey”, in 1953, in Waterville, where they established a home for the four sons they brought into their world. This home became a gathering place for their extended family whose many members would meet on a frequent basis throughout the years for birthdays, holidays, and for any reason just to get together. As their children grew, many of their friends and their children’s friends came to be included in these social events.
During the late 1960s and early 1970s, the family skating rink became the destination for children throughout Waterville’s many neighborhoods. Dolores warmed their frozen toes and fed their active stomachs while welcoming all to her friendly kitchen. She became an iconic figure in those early years for her generosity and hospitality as she often prepared a communal feast for high school hockey players and their many friends following home games.
Few would disagree that Dolores was loving, kind and compassionate to all in her life. Her big smile and sparkling blue eyes were endearing as she invariably greeted family and friends with out-stretched arms. She often proclaimed her not so secret formula for bringing people together: “If you want to bring people together and share their happiness, fill the table with food. If you have food, people will come.” She reveled in the joy of bringing people together and this she did extraordinarily well whether she was hosting a Christmas open house, birthday parties, holidays, after-hockey game events or just a Sunday dinner. Mom was a genuinely happy person and was eager to share that joy with those who chose to receive it.
Dolores loved to read. She was extremely passionate about education. She thoroughly enjoyed music and she was proud to have music fill her home. A great joy for Dolores was the active part she played in being an instrumental mentor and role model for her five grandchildren.
Dolores is survived by her four sons, Sam (Bonnie), Michael (Karen), Nicholas (Penny) and Peter; five grandchildren, Nichole Nawfel, Jacob (Katie) Nawfel, Alysia (Colby) Whynot, Lauren Nawfel and Jena Nawfel; four great-grandchildren, Wesley and Miles Whynot, and Lily and Eva Nawfel; her sister, Elizabeth “Betty” Fowler and her husband Leon Fowler; and her brother-in-law, Beasley Edwards; many nephews, nieces, grand-nephews, grand-nieces and their respective families.
Dolores was predeceased by her parents Richard and Maria Nawfel; Michael, her husband 67 years; her siblings Elias Richard Nawfel, D.M.D. and his wife, Jamila, Sumayah (David) Ferris, Julie (Beshara) Saliba, Lorice Franklin, Helen Edwards; and her granddaughter of blessed memory, Alexa Nawfel.
A small private church service was attended by immediate and extended family members on Saturday, December 16, 2023, at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, in Portland. The service was conducted by Father Constantine Sarantidis, our spiritual father of 34 years.
Arrangements were under the direction and care of Jones, Rich and Barnes Funeral Home.
For those who would like to make a donation in Dolores’ name, you are welcome to consider Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church, 133 Pleasant St., Portland, ME 04101.
WINSLOW – A Mass of Christian Burial, for Karen “Dee” Hotham, was held on Saturday, January 13, 2024, at 10 a.m., at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, in Winslow. A Celebration of Life followed.
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AARP Maine invites local eligible non-profit organizations and governments across the country to apply for the 2024 AARP Community Challenge grant program, now through Wednesday, March 6, at 5 p.m. Eastern. AARP Community Challenge grants fund quick-action projects that help communities become more livable by improving public places, transportation, housing, digital connections, and more. Now in its eighth year, the program is part of AARP’s nationwide Livable Communities initiative, which supports the efforts of cities, towns, neighborhoods and rural areas to become great places to live for all residents, especially those age 50 and older.
The AARP Community Challenge accepts applications across three different grant opportunities. All projects must be consistent with AARP’s mission to serve the needs of people 50 and older along with other eligibility criteria.
Capacity-building microgrants are paired with additional resources, such as one-on-one coaching, webinars, cohort learning opportunities and more for improving walkability, bikeability and implementing safe, accessible home modifications.
Demonstration grants focus on improving digital connections to prepare and respond to disasters; reconnecting communities divided by infrastructure; and housing choice design competitions.
Flagship grants support projects that improve public places; transportation; housing; diversity, equity and inclusion; civic engagement; community health and economic empowerment; and new this year community resilience; and digital connections.
“AARP is committed to meeting the needs of a rapidly aging population in communities across the country,” said Nancy LeaMond, AARP Executive Vice President and Chief Advocacy & Engagement Officer.
The Community Challenge is open to eligible nonprofit organizations and government entities. Other types of organizations are considered on a case-by-case basis. Grants can range from several hundred dollars for small, short-term activities to tens of thousands for larger projects.
The application deadline is 5 p.m. Eastern Standard Time, Wednesday, March 6, 2024. All projects must be completed by December 15, 2024. To submit an application and view past grantees, visit www.AARP.org/CommunityChallenge.
by Mary GrowVassalboro select board members have made progress toward livestreaming and recording their meetings. The Jan. 11 meeting was at least partly covered. Michael Picher donated the camera. David Trask provided technical support. Brian Lajoie helped with installing television screens and running wire. The selectboard was responsible for the directive and helping in coordinating with Picher and Trask.
Board member used three-quarters of an hour at the meeting to consider possible amendments to the town’s marijuana ordinance.
Board chairman Chris French’s goal is an updated ordinance that will provide more information and more income from fees to cover town expenses. He’d like to have it ready for voters’ action at the June town meeting.
As French explained the situation, there are two kinds of legal marijuana-growing operations in Vassalboro. Eight are grandfathered commercial operations, predating the town’s June 2021 Marijuana Business Ordinance. The rest are facilities whose adult plants cover an area of less than 500 square feet.
The 2021 ordinance says: “Marijuana Businesses shall be prohibited in the Town of Vassalboro unless they were in lawful operation or had received site plan or building permit approval for the use prior to the Effective Date of this Ordinance.”
That sentence means Vassalboro voters decided to prohibit any new commercial marijuana growing facilities. Planning board member Douglas Phillips, from the audience, repeatedly reminded select board members not to dispute the voters’ will, and they denied any such intention.
The second type of marijuana business in Vassalboro is limited to less than 500 square feet of adult plants, or fewer than 30 adult plants. These facilities, French said, are allowed by state law; and owners are allowed to sell their products, up to a state-specified limit, to licensed medical marijuana caregivers.
In French’s interpretation, the town cannot deny what the state authorizes. However, he would like town officials to have more information, like where such facilities are located, and recommends requiring a town permit through the planning board.
The topic will be revisited at a future meeting.
Town adopts new policy on remote public participation
At their Jan. 11 meeting, Vassalboro select board members adopted a new town policy titled “Remote Participation in Public Proceedings Policy.”
Referencing the state Freedom of Access law, the policy applies to “public proceedings or meetings” of all town boards and committees. It defines conditions under which a member of a board or committee may be allowed to participate remotely.
Whenever “any member of the body participates via remote methods,” members of the public will have the same opportunity.
If public comment is allowed, it is to be open to remote attendees as well as those present in person.
In an “emergency or urgent situation” a board or committee may hold a meeting entirely by remote means. In such a situation, all votes will be by roll call, visible and audible. Public attendance may also be limited to remote participation.
The policy describes how to give public notice of meetings. It says documents and materials being discussed are to be made available to remote public attendees equally with those present in person, “provided no additional costs are incurred by the body.”
A copy of the policy will be available on the Vassalboro website.
A second major topic Jan. 11 was how to use remaining ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act) funds. Town Manager Aaron Miller said the account has $84,705 left, some of it authorized for projects not yet completed.
Board members considered four proposals.
They returned to the idea of emergency generators to keep town facilities operating during power outages. Miller said the one person who responded to the request for cost estimates for the town office told him an order for several generators would reduce the price of each.
After discussion, board members asked Miller to get a price for generators for the town office, the Riverside fire station and the food pantry building. They plan to review the result at their first February meeting.
Miller recommended security cameras for town facilities. Board members waived the procurement policy and authorized Miller to spend $12,400 for security cameras.
A third proposed ARPA-funded project is replacing the elderly gasoline and diesel fuel pumps at the town garage. Miller said they are used for public works equipment, gasoline-powered school buses, the police vehicle and fire trucks.
The manager said he had one price quote and hoped to get at least two more. Select board members did not object.
Board members approved another $1,150 from the ARPA account to finish updating lights at the Vassalboro Historical Society building, the former East Vassalboro schoolhouse.
Looking at finances more broadly, Miller presented a summary financial report for the first half of the 2023-24 fiscal year. Neither he nor board members saw any problem areas.
Miller announced that Joshua Barnes is Vassalboro’s new animal control officer. Barnes holds the same position in China, he said.
During the Dec. 18 storm and following power outage, Miller said 86 people came to the new town warming center at Vassalboro Community School. He and Superintendent Alan Pfeiffer are satisfied; they would like to train more emergency volunteers. Interested residents are invited to contact the town office.
The next Vassalboro select board meeting is scheduled for Thursday evening, Jan. 25.
by Mary GrowChina planning board members returned to an old topic, the proposed town ordinance to govern commercial solar development, at their first 2024 meeting, held on Jan. 9.
Chairman Toni Wall shared her revised draft of the ordinance. Board members made a few immediate comments and accepted Wall’s suggestion they discuss it again at their Jan. 23 meeting.
They hope to recommend a final draft to select board members in time for that board to present it to voters at the June town business meeting.
Revisions to China’s Planning Board Ordinance are already scheduled for a June vote, Wall said.
State statute regarding new state housing law
To give readers an idea of what planning board members are dealing with as they propose amendments adding provisions of the new state housing law to the town ordinance, here is a section copied from the law:
§4364-A. Residential areas, generally; up to four dwelling units allowed.
1. Use allowed. Notwithstanding any provision of law to the contrary, except as provided in Title 12, chapter 423‑A, for any area in which residential uses are allowed, including as a conditional use, a municipality shall allow structures with up to two dwelling units per lot if that lot does not contain an existing dwelling unit, except that a municipality shall allow up to four dwelling units per lot if that lot does not contain an existing dwelling unit and the lot is located in a designated growth area within a municipality consistent with section 4349‑A, subsection 1, paragraph A or B or if the lot is served by a public, special district or other centrally managed water system and a public, special district or other comparable sewer system in a municipality without a comprehensive plan.
A municipality shall allow on a lot with one existing dwelling unit the addition of up to two dwelling units: one additional dwelling unit within or attached to an existing structure or one additional detached dwelling unit, or one of each.
A municipality may allow more units than the number required to be allowed by this subsection.
Another planning board project is revising Chapter Two of the town’s Land Development Code, the section titled Land Use Ordinance. The version on the town website, china.govoffice.com, last revised in November 2022, is 63 pages long.
A major change needed is incorporation of the new state law that began as LD 2003, titled “An Act To Implement the Recommendations of the Commission To Increase Housing Opportunities in Maine by Studying Zoning and Land Use Restrictions.” It became law in April 2022.
The law seeks to increase available housing by expanding the numbers and types of dwelling units allowed on a lot. Municipalities are required to amend local ordinances to include provisions of the law.
Wall said she had asked China Town Manager Rebecca Hapgood to ask the Kennebec Valley Council of Governments to draft amendments to China’s ordinance. KVCOG has received many such requests from other member towns, she said.
Also needing planning board members’ attention are changes made by the Maine Department of Environmental Protection that should have been added to the town ordinance years ago and were overlooked.
Wall is reviewing the entire ordinance, aided by comments from codes officer Nicholas French as he has applied it over past months. She is noting incorrect cross-references, inconsistencies, omissions, contradictions and other substantive problems, as well as correcting capitalization, punctuation, grammar and spelling.
In other business Jan. 9, French said he is still working on ordinance violations, mostly work done without obtaining required permits.
Wall said she submitted the planning board’s 2024-25 budget request to the town office and is working on the board report for the town report that will come out in the spring, covering the fiscal year from July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023.
The next China planning board meeting is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 23.