Steve Fotter, right, and his crew hosted the Warming Up For Christmas Concert, on Saturday, November 18, at the Williamson Performing Arts Center, in Fairfield. The event raised $17,500 for Operation Hope. Waterville Police Chief William Bonney, center, and the Operation HOPE crew are seen on stage praising Steve Fotter for his amazing efforts to raise funds for their lifesaving program. (photo by Mark Huard/ Central Maine Photography)
A newly published book by local Katherine Alexander, of Winslow, They Shall Run and Not Be Weary: The Story of an Eighteenth Century German Family’s Voyage to the New Land, tells the story of her family who traveled from their 18th century home, in Massenbach, Germany, to America. This is a great book to read for anyone 18 years and older who wanted to learn more about the hardships families went through to get to a new land. This journey should never be forgotten as we are all benefiting from the strength and courage of families like the Fridbergs.
Join the Fridberg family as Widow Maria Barbara and her four children brave hardship and overcome the obstacles to traveling from their village of Massenbach in what is now Germany to the city of colonial Philadelphia in 1742.
Travel north on the Rhine River to Rotterdam, in Holland, cross the English Channel to Deal and nally sail with them as they begin the treacherous journey across the Atlantic Ocean. Meet their traveling companions from their village and the friends they make along the way. See in all its reality what shipboard conditions were really like and how the Fridbergs kept their focus, full of the hope their life in the New Land would grant them.
A succulent wreath placed around a candle makes a festive holiday centerpiece. (photo courtesy of MelindaMyers.com)
by Melinda MyersMany people are opting for more natural elements in their holiday displays and those that easily blend with their home décor. Popular succulent plants fit this trend whether decorating your home, setting a festive table, or giving as a gift. You and your guests will enjoy the easy care of succulents and the beauty they provide beyond the holidays.
Small-scale cacti and succulents provide a multitude of opportunities for use in holiday celebrations. Just select containers that complement, but don’t overpower their charm.
Use them to dress up the table by making them into place cards for your guests. Plant individual succulents in a small clay pot and set one by each place setting. Include the guest’s name or holiday wish on a plant tag set in the pot or written on the container. Send them home with your guests to enjoy for months to come.
Repurpose holiday mugs, champagne glasses, bottles and other items into succulent planters. Fill whatever container you choose with a well-drained cacti and succulent mix and display it on beverage or serving tables and trays. Just be careful not to overwater since the container you choose may lack drainage holes.
Empty wine bottles also make fun planters to display any time of the year. You will need to cut a large opening or several smaller holes into the side of the wine bottle or you may opt to buy one that is pre-cut. Fill the bottle with a cacti and succulent mix. The wine bottle planter can be displayed on its side but needs support to prevent it from rolling off the table. One simple method uses two corks and strong wire to create a cradle for your bottle garden. You can also plant just the bottom of the wine bottle and stand it up for a different look. Or consider drilling several holes in the side of the bottle. Plant small succulents in the holes. Secure the plants in place with a bit of sphagnum moss or glue if needed to hold the plants in place once the bottle is set upright.
Create a centerpiece for gatherings by planting them in a shallow container. Their unique shapes and colors blend nicely with any décor. Or display individual potted specimens in the container to enjoy throughout the evening. When the party is over, each guest can pick a plant to take home.
You won’t need much space to enjoy the subtle colors and dramatic forms of these drought-tolerant plants. Skip the seasonal greenery and use succulents to dress up candle displays. Create a terrarium of succulents using any clear glass container with an open top or lid set ajar. Succulents do not thrive in the humid conditions of closed containers.
Take it one step further and create a succulent tree. Fill a cone-shaped wire frame with moist sphagnum moss. Use cuttings or small plants to cover the frame. You may need to expand the opening to fit the roots through the wires and into the moss.
Include the name and care directions when sending plants home with guests. This makes it easier for the recipient to keep their gift thriving once it arrives home. Suggest they keep it near a sunny window where temperatures are a bit cooler and free of hot and cold air drafts.
Water succulents thoroughly and only when the soil is dry. Pour off any excess water that collects in the saucer. Avoid overwatering plants growing in containers that lack drainage holes. As the days lengthen and the light intensity increases, the plants will need more frequent watering. Fertilize once or twice during the time the plants are actively growing.
Be sure to keep a few succulents for yourself. A succulent centerpiece is a great addition to any gathering at any time of the year.
Melinda Myers has written more than 20 gardening books, including the recently released Midwest Gardener’s Handbook, 2nd Edition and Small Space Gardening. She hosts The Great Courses “How to Grow Anything” instant video and DVD series and the nationally syndicated Melinda’s Garden Moment TV & radio program. Myers is a columnist and contributing editor for Birds & Blooms magazine. Myers’ website is www.MelindaMyers.com.
by Roland D. HalleeOne of my wife’s favorite birds is the northern cardinal. We’ve had a nesting pair hanging around our house for a couple of years now, and we both enjoy watching the brilliant red male go about its business. The northern cardinal is also synonymous with winter, and adorns many a Christmas card.
That has not always been the case.
One of our most popular birds, the cardinal is the official state bird of no fewer than seven eastern states: Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, North Carolina, Ohio, Virginia and West Virginia. Abundant in the Southeast, it has been extending its range northward for decades, and it now brightens winter days with its color and its whistled song as far north as southeastern Canada. Feeders stocked with sunflower seeds may have aided its northward spread. West of the Great Plains, the Cardinal is mostly absent, but it is locally common in the desert Southwest.
Widespread and abundant, having expanded its range over the last century or more, the current numbers are probably stable. It inhabits woodland edges, thickets, suburban gardens, towns, desert washes. Found in a wide variety of brushy or semi-open habitats in the East, from forest clearings and swamps to city parks, almost wherever there are some dense bushes for nesting. It forages mostly while hopping on the ground or in low bushes, sometimes higher in trees. They readily come to bird feeders, where it favors sunflower seeds.
The male Northern Cardinal is perhaps responsible for getting more people to open up a field guide than any other bird. They have a a shade of red you can’t take your eyes off. Even the brown females sport a sharp crest and warm red accents. Cardinals don’t migrate and they don’t molt into a dull plumage, so they’re still breathtaking in winter’s snowy backyards. In summer, their sweet whistles are one of the first sounds of the morning.
Both parents feed nestlings. Young leave the nest about 9 – 11 days after hatching. Males may feed fledglings while females begin the next nesting attempt. They have two to three broods per year, rarely four.
Their diet consists mostly of seeds, insects, berries. Diet is quite varied. They feed on many insects, including beetles, true bugs, grasshoppers, caterpillars, ants, flies, and many others, also spiders, centipedes, and snails. Most of their diet is vegetable matter, including seeds of weeds and grasses, waste grain, leaf buds, flowers, and many berries and wild fruits. Young are fed mostly insects.
While nesting, the male sings to defend nesting territory, actively attacking intruding males (and attacking his own reflection in windows and mirrors). In courtship, male and female raise heads high, sway back and forth while singing softly; male often feeds female early in breeding season. The female sings mainly in spring before the start of nesting. The nest is usually well hidden in dense shrubs, vines, or low trees, placed 3 – 10 feet above ground, sometimes higher. Nest (built by female) is open cup made of twigs, weeds, grass, bark strips, leaves, rootlets, lined with fine grass or hair.
Nearly any bird feeder you put out ought to attract Northern Cardinals (as long as you live within their range), but they particularly seem to use sunflower seeds. Leave undergrowth in your backyard or around the edges, and you may have cardinals nesting on your property.
Here are some cool facts about cardinals:
– Only a few female North American songbirds sing, but the female Northern Cardinal does, and often while sitting on the nest. This may give the male information about when to bring food to the nest. A mated pair shares song phrases, but the female may sing a longer and slightly more complex song than the male.
– Many people are perplexed each spring by the sight of a cardinal attacking its reflection in a window, car mirror, or shiny bumper. Both males and females do this, and most often in spring and early summer when they are obsessed with defending their territory against any intruders. Birds may spend hours fighting these intruders without giving up. A few weeks later, as levels of aggressive hormones subside, these attacks should end.
– The male cardinal fiercely defends its breeding territory from other males. When a male sees its reflection in glass surfaces, it frequently will spend hours fighting the imaginary intruder.
– The oldest recorded Northern Cardinal was a female, and was 15 years, 9 months old when she was found in Pennsylvania.
Well, he’s baaaack!
Another trap destroyed. I checked on my traps, and sure enough, another broken trap. One of my brand new ones. Sooner or later, I’m going to get down to the bottom of this.
Who was the last Boston Bruins player to score 100 points or more before David Pastrnak’s 113 in 2022-23?
CHINA – Fred Murphy passed away on Wednesday, November 22, 2023, at the Maine Veterans Home, in Augusta.
Fred grew up in China, graduated from Winslow High School and served in the U.S. Air Force. Fred loved telling stories of his adventures while in the Air Force. If you knew Fred, you know he loved telling stories.
Fred was proud to be a cobbler in Waterville for over 37 years. After returning from the service he purchased Harmony Shoe repair, on Main St., in Waterville. Later he purchased Babe’s Shoe Repair and continued on for many years being a master cobbler working to save old soles and a few heels, too. He loved his work and the community he served. Fred was a craftsman and an artist that really could “make a silk purse from a sow’s ear”.
Fred had many passions including gardening. His garlic and blueberries were his pride and joy. Fred had a curious mind, he was a deep thinker, hard worker, a dreamer, a proud father, an adoring husband and a great friend to those lucky enough to have shared time with him. The world was a better place with him in it.
Fred will be greatly missed by so many but especially his family, Jacque, Janet, Celon, Angus, Zac, Merlin and Eli.
BELGRADE – Marie Anne Pulsifer died Saturday, November 25, 2023, following a brief illness. Marie was born in Waterville on April 14, 1937, the daughter of Wilfred and Florence (Poulin) Morissette.
She was educated at Mt. Merici Academy and St. Francis de Sales Parochial School, both in Waterville. Following graduation she worked as a laboratory technician at Thayer Hospital, in Waterville.
In 1963, she married William “Bill” Pulsifer, of Belgrade Lakes. Bill and Marie raised their daughters in the village, and for many years, Marie operated the Maine Made Shop adjacent to their home. They attended St. Helena Catholic Church, in Belgrade, and St. Joseph’s, in Farmington, where Marie was a supporter of the warming center.
Marie was widely known for her service to her community. She helped launch the Belgrade Health Center and served as its interior designer when it opened. Recognizing the problem of food insecurity in the Belgrade area, Marie initiated the creation of a local food pantry, leading fundraising efforts and recruiting volunteers to keep it running. It remains active to this day.
Messalonskee families will remember that Marie never missed a game, meet, or event when her daughters and grandchildren were in school. She brought homemade baked goods, befriended players from other teams, learned the rules of each sport.
Marie was an excellent cook, baker, cake decorator, interior designer, florist, gardener, quilter, seamstress, and cottage businesswoman. She turned clothespins and popsicle sticks into beautiful handmade crafts and ornaments, which she sold for a while, then gave away just because it brought her joy. She was an avid reader, a quick wit, and a constant supporter of local fundraisers and benefit suppers. She cooked delicious meals for people going through difficult times, or just because she was thinking of them.
Every Christmas, Marie delighted friends and family with her elaborate Christmas village displays, which turned her living room into a magical wonderland. For many, stopping by the Pulsifers’ was a highlight of the holiday season, with Bill at the piano playing carols and Marie bringing out another plate of cookies.
Marie was predeceased by her parents; a sister, Wilena Monroe, a brother, Bill Morissette; and a daughter, Anne Marie Pulsifer.
She is survived by her husband, Bill, of Belgrade Lakes; a daughter, Louise Hogan, of Waterville; a brother and sister-in-law, James and Nancy Morissette, of Rhode Island; granddaughter, Emily Hogan, of Boston, Massachusetts; and grandson, William Hogan, of Brisbane, Australia; numerous nieces, nephews; great-nieces and great-nephews; godchildren; her late daughter’s partner, Ken Hochstetler.
A Mass of Christian burial was held on Saturday, December 9, at St. Joseph’s in Farmington. A memorial Mass, interment, and reception in Belgrade Lakes will take place in the summer 2024.
Arrangements are under the care and direction of Veilleux and Redington Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the Belgrade Food Pantry, Belgrade Fire and Rescue Association, or Mid-Maine Homeless Shelter are welcome.
WATERVILLE – Sherry Lynn Levesque, 66, of Waterville, passed away on Wednesday, November 29, 2023. She was born August 22, 1957, the daughter of the late Chester Levesque and Mona Stedman.
She graduated from Waterville High School. Sherry worked most of her life as a waitress/bartender at The Down Under Pub, Sportsters, The Pub, The Dugout and VFW, all in Waterville. She was a lifetime VFW auxiliary member and enjoyed cooking for and helping the local veterans.
She enjoyed decorating for the Christmas season for all to enjoy. You could find her outdoors tending to her gardens, flowers, bird feeders and yard. Free time was spent with her children and grandchildren.
Sherry is survived by her children, sons Chad Denis and his fiancée Angie Troy, of Fairfield, Zachary Denis, of Waterville; and daughter Casey Perkins and her husband Craig Perkins, of Arizona; her sisters Cindy Levesque Giguere and her husband Shawn Giguere, of Oakland, Rachel Corvahlo and her husband Fernando Corvahlo, of Fall River, Massachusetts, Rhonda Oliveira, of Dighton, Massachusetts; grandchildren Kora Mae Denis McDonald, Quinn Denis and Treston Carrow; nieces Katelyn, Cheryl, Carrie, and Daniel.
She was predeceased by her dad, Chester Levesque, mother, Mona Stedman; brother, Micheal Levesque; aunt, Lucille Dulac; grandchildren Zyah Denis and Eevee McDonald.
Arrangements are entrusted with Staples Funeral Home and Cremation Care, 53 Brunswick Ave., Gardiner. Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the Staples Funeral Home website, http://www.staplesfuneralhome.com.
FAIRFIELD – Virginia E. “Ginny” Gagne, 72, of Fairfield, peacefully passed away in her sleep on Wednesday, November 29, 2023, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Augusta, following a brief battle with cancer. Virginia was born on July 1, 1951, to Harry and Jennie Norton, in Skowhegan.
She graduated from Madison Memorial High School in 1969 and dedicated many years as a millwright at SAPPI Paper, in Hinckley. She enjoyed planting in her flowerbed, cuddling with her pets, watching the birds, and commenting and hearting on loved one’s Facebook posts. She absolutely loved everybody!
Virginia was predeceased by her father, Harry C. Norton.
She is survived by her husband, Paul Gagne; mother, Jenny E. (Quimby) Norton; daughters, Angel Vaughn and husband Walter, Calandra Whittier and husband Timothy; nine grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; siblings Beverly Patrie, Paula Fowler, Cecil Norton, Faylene Seavy, Glendon Norton and their families.
The family will be announcing a Celebration of Life and burial services closer to Spring. If you would like to send condolences to the family, please mail to 261 Wilder Hill Rd. Norridgewock, ME. 04957.
WINDSOR – Paul Arnold, 90, passed away at home on Saturday, December 2, 2023, after a full life.
After retiring from the City of Augusta in the public works department, Paul enjoyed traveling, lawn care, and gardening.
He is survived by his wife, Ruby Arnold; his son, Brian Arnold and his wife Diane; daughter-in-law Vickie Arnold; four grandsons, Troy Richards, Brandon Arnold, Devon Arnold, and Daniel Arnold; and nine great-grandchildren. He was blessed to have gained a bonus family (Ruby’s family), Charlotte Vinton, Charles Barnes Sr. and his wife Barbie, Christopher Barnes and his wife Brenda, Chester Barnes Sr. and his wife Cindy, Cheyenne Barnes and his wife Ann, Cheryl Granquist and her husband Derek, and Chauncey Barnes and his wife Vicky, along with their families.
A graveside service was held on Friday, December 8 at the Maine Veterans Cemetery, 163 Mt. Vernon Rd., Augusta, ME 04330.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Plummer Funeral Home, 983 Ridge Rd., Windsor, ME 04363. Condolences, stories and photos may be shared by visiting http://www.plummerfh.com.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Paul’s name may be made to MaineGeneral Hospice, c/o Office of Philanthropy, P.O. Box 828, Waterville, ME 04903-0828.
WINSLOW – Leonette Marie Fortier, 90, of Winslow, passed away peacefully on Saturday, December 2, 2023. Leonette was born in Saint-Zacharie, Québec, Canada, on June 25, 1933, the daughter of Adonia and Florence Parent.
She attended public school in Canada and came to Winslow at the age of 16.
Leonette married Armand Fortier and together they had six children, Rita, Tina, Donald, Kathy, Bobby, and Jeffrey. She worked at C. F. Hathaway Shirt Company, in Waterville. She was a passionate cook, an avid knitter, participated in the local Elks Club and was an active member of the Corpus Christi Parish, in Winslow, for many years.
Leonette is survived by all six of her children, Rita and husband Jim, Tina and husband Tim, Donald and wife Lori, Kathy and husband David, Bobby and wife Heather, and Jeffery and husband Steve; 12 grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren.
A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Tuesday, December 12, at Notre Dame Catholic Church, 116 Silver St., Waterville.
An online guestbook may be signed, condolences and memories shared at http://www.gallantfh.com.
CHELSEA – Linda Marie Pinkham, 79, of Chelsea, passed away on Sunday, November 19, 2023, at her home. She was born in Augusta on October 11, 1944, the daughter of Archie and Margaret Park.
All her life Linda was a hard worker. She took care of the neighborhood kids and her granddaughter, Heather and grandson, Justin, for many years. Linda worked in the cafeteria at Togus VA, in Augusta, until 1991 and then at Reny’s, in Gardiner, until she retired.
Linda enjoyed playing Parcheesi, Cribbage, Rummy, and listening to Elvis Presley, dancing, and particularly time spent with family and friends. She also liked watching the Boston Red Sox games. Linda was the life of the party no matter where she went. She will be greatly missed by so many.
Linda was predeceased by her parents; one son, James M. Storkson; husband, Warren Pinkham, Sr.; son-in-law, Michael Geroux Sr., and stepson, James Pinkham, Sr.
She is survived by her daughter, Lisa and husband James Heil; son, David Storkson, Jr. and wife Heidi; daughter, Laurie Geroux; stepchildren Tina, Timmy, Warren Dean, Jr., and Tammy Pinkham; along with many grandchildren; great-grandchildren; nieces, nephews; and cousins.
A spring burial will take place on Friday, May 24, 2024, at 11 a.m., at Allen Cemetery, in Chelsea.
Arrangements are under the care of Staples Funeral Home and Cremation Care, 53 Brunswick Ave., Gardiner, ME 04345. Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared with family on the obituary page of Staples Funeral Home website, http://www.staplesfuneralhome.com.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to a local breast cancer center.
OAKLAND – Selma Pulcifur, 96, passed away at Woodlands Senior Living on Saturday, December 2, 2023. Selma was born in Oakland on October 31, 1927, the daughter of Perlie C. and Hilma (Anderson) Pulcifur.
She was a lifelong resident of Oakland where she graduated from Williams High School in 1946.
Selma was employed by The Diamond Match Company, in Oakland, from 1946 – 1985 as an accountant and payroll clerk until it closed. She was then employed by S.A.D.#47, in Oakland, in the superintendent’s office, as administrative assistant of computer operations until her retirement in 1990.
She was a member of the Oakland-Sidney United Methodist Church serving on many various committees and positions. She has been a member of the church choir since 1946.
Selma was a charter member of the R.B. Hall Memorial Band where she enjoyed playing her trombone. She enjoyed volunteering at the Thayer Hospital, in Waterville, and delivering Meals on Wheels from the Muskie Center, in Waterville, where she also served on the Advisory Council. Selma was the 2003 recipient of the Eagle Award from Oakland William Alumni Association for outstanding community service.
Selma loved the time she spent at her cottage on McGrath Pond, in Oakland. She enjoyed traveling, especially with her mother back to Sweden to visit the hometown and relatives. A trip to Lesotho, South Africa, to visit life-long friend Ada C. Knauff, three trips cross country in a 5th wheel trailer, the first trip being to Alaska.
Selma is survived by cousins Wayne Thomas, of Agawam, Massachusetts, James Thomas (Patricia), Springfield, Massachusetts; cousins, Elaine Perry, of Oakland, Carol Salley (Kenneth), of Smithfield, Sherwood Bickford (Bonnie), of Smithfield.
She was predeceased by her parents and a cousin, Ethelyn Thomas.
At Selmas’s request there will be no calling hours. A memorial service will be held at the Oakland-Sidney United Methodist Church, 20 West School Street, Oakland, on a date in January, to be determined later.
Arrangements are under the direction and care of Wheeler Funeral Home & Cremation Care, 26 Church Street, Oakland, Maine.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Oakland-Sidney United Methodist Church Memorial Fund, 20 West School St., Oakland, ME 04963.
WATERVILLE – Avis Marcoux passed away on Sunday, December 3, 2023, following several months of health issues. She was born the daughter of Frances and Clayton Cookson, in Burnham.
Her education began in a one room school house with her mother as the only teacher, she went to high school at Maine Central Institute, in Pittsfield, and attended the University of Maine at Orono.
She met the love of her life, Albert Leon Marcoux, at a dance at the Puddleduck, in Albion. Her parents insisted she wait until she was 20 to get married so she celebrated her birthday one weekend and was married the next. Avis and Al celebrated their 66th wedding anniversary in October. As Al has been heard saying, “it is rare for two people to get to love each other so much and for so long”. And love each other they did.
Together they raised four children and Avis was the best of moms. She was a teacher, protector, worrier, giver and a loving, kind person. Avis loved family gatherings. Whether playing games around the table, eating or simply socializing; laughter ensued and memories were always made. Avis adored her family and was proud of them whether they were working, succeeding academically or performing on a court, a field, a pool or a stage.
There are many things she loved but to list a few: Her pies “made with love” were a specialty. She was a crafter/decorator and her house was a welcoming home. Playing games with family and friends…she often won but it was a surprise to everyone including herself when it happened. Trips to Florida taking advantage of the beach and other attractions. Family time at parks and beaches in New England. Watching the Red Sox and Celtics. Attending the performances of family. Choosing the perfect gift for everyone at birthdays, Christmas, weddings and births.
She is survived by her four children and their spouses, Denise (Stephen) Nelson, Marc (Corrina) Marcoux, Diann (Bill) Libby, Joey (Julie Greene) Marcoux; 12 grandchildren and their partners, Kristin Nelson, Bryan Nelson, Scott Marcoux, Sarah Gammon, Jacob Marcoux, Clay Marcoux, Jessica Witham, Kati Landers, Erica Noonan, Lauren Collin, Paige Marcoux, and Izaak Gajowski; and 16 great-grandchildren and their partners, Nathanial Gammon, Mackenzie Gammon, Janelle Gammon, Charlie Marcoux, Bryer Marcoux, Lincoln Marcoux, Kori Marcoux, Austin Witham, Emily Witham, Katelyn Witham, Raegan Witham, Tyler Witham, Enzo Lander, Finn Lander, Ollie Noonan, and Liam Collin; her sister Sheilya (Dale) Voter and countless other family.
Avis was predeceased by her parents and her infant sister Iva Cookson.
There will be no services at this time.
Arrangements are under the care and direction of Veilleux and Redington Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers we ask that you show love to your family and friends and do whatever you can to make the world a better place.
BENTON – William Phillip Guite, 78, passed away peacefully at Maine Medical Center, in Portland, on Monday, December 4, 2023. Bill was born in Waterville on September 19, 1945, the son of the late Renaud and Yvette Constance (Gousse) Guite.
He was a graduate of Lawrence High School, in Fairfield, in 1963, and the University of Maine in 1967. He was an active member and officer of the Tau Kappa Epsilon fraternity. He earned a Masters in Mathematics at St. Louis University as well as a master’s degree in education from The University of Southern Maine in 1982.
Bill started his teaching career at The John Philip Sousa Junior High School, in Port Washington, Long Island, New York. After five years, he moved back to Maine and taught an additional 33 years at Winslow Junior High School, enjoying his role as assistant principal for the last 20-plus years before retiring in 2005. Bill was instrumental in obtaining grant money for the at-risk students to experience life-changing trips he led in the remote Allagash Waterway, with the goal of keeping these students in school, out of trouble, and to finally graduate. Bill’s motto for dealing with difficult students was always to be Firm, Fair, Friendly, and Forgiving. He believed in giving many chances for success.
In his retirement, Bill enjoyed life to the fullest by spending most of his free time outdoors with nature and animals and always interested in house projects. He loved to dog sit and spend time with his sons and grandsons. He also continued to serve on the Benton Comprehensive committee, Clear Channel Community committee, and Maine Association of Retirees.
Bill will be remembered most for his love and kindness to all – family, friends, animals, neighbors, and even the students he had to discipline at school. Truly, his heart was much bigger than he was.
He often shared his biggest accomplishment in life was to see his two sons grow up to be compassionate human beings and blessed to have a devoted wife of 53 years that loved and stood by him until his last moments.
He is survived by his soulmate and love of his life for more than 53 years, his wife, Gloria (Angeloni) Guite; two sons Ryan J. Guite, of Nashville, Tennessee, and Dean W. Guite, of Wilmington, North Carolina; two grandsons (Dean’s children) Tristan 10, and Cameron 9; sister Margaret Holland, of Plattsburgh, New York; sister-in-law Ginger Guite, of Atlanta, Georgia; sister/brother-in-law Palmira and Gino Fiasche, of Montreal, Québec, Canada; as well as cousins, nieces, and nephews.
Bill was predeceased by Patricia Pooler, sister, and Renaud Guite, brother.
A memorial Mass will take place at Notre Dame Church, 116 Silver St., in Waterville, in the spring with a reception to follow to share stories and laughter of Bill’s life.
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.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to the: Maine Transplant Program, 43 Baxter Blvd., Portland, ME 04101 or the Humane Society Waterville Area, 100 Webb Rd., 04901.
SOMERVILLE – Stephen E. Hewett, 65, of Somerville, passed away Thursday, August 17, 2023, at Maine Medical Center, in Portland.
Stephen graduated from Erskine Academy, in South China, in 1976 and also attended Capital City Vocational School, in Augusta, where he concentrated on plumbing and heating. Stephen went on to become a master plumber and oil burner technician. An avid sportsman, he played basketball and softball for many years. He loved hunting, fishing and ice fishing; his favorite color was camouflage.
Stephen was predeceased by his parents, Elwin and Alena (Ward) Hewett, brothers, Elwen Hewett Jr and Donald Hewett, a sister, Rhonda Hewett, and his beloved son Eric Stephen Hewett.
Stephen is survived by his companion Lisa Willett, of Somerville; and a brother Robert Hewett, of Windsor.
Stephen will be buried at Rest Haven cemetery, in Windsor.
ROCKVILLE, Maryland – Christos George Hadidiacos, 81, passed away on Monday, December 4, 2023. Christos was born on May 3, 1942, in Anemotia Mytilene, Greece, to George and Sophia Hadidiacos.
At the age of 4, Christos, along with his parents and sister Chris, came to the United States. On June 8, 1963, Christos married his high school sweetheart, Elaine Giguere, of Winslow. The couple moved to Rockville, Maryland, in 1972, when Christos was offered a job at the distinguished Carnegie Institute for Science Geophysical Laboratory. He worked there for 42 years and was the first person to receive Carnegie Institute’s Service to Science Award that recognized outstanding and/or unique contributions to science.
Christos is survived by his two children, Michelle Belski and her husband Gary, of Maryland, and Michael Hadidiacos and wife Kristina, of North Carolina; and his grandson, Jordan Belski, of Maryland; sister Chris Lee, of Winslow; niece Betty Lee, of Bangor; and nephews Lewis Lee, of Winslow, Kostas Gregory and his wife Erna-Sue, of Waterville, and George Gregory, of Riverside, Rhode Island; and their children Kostantinos Gregory, of California, Nike Gregory, of Massachusetts, Yorgos and Burke Gregory, of Massachusetts, and Madison Gregory, of California.
The family will hold a memorial service for Christos in Maine during the summer of 2024.
Donations can be made in Christos’ memory to the Lewy Body Dementia Association at https://www.lbda.org/donate/.
American Lung Association releases new data and steps healthcare and public health professionals can take to help improve the lives of people living with COPDThe American Lung Association in Maine released the COPD State Briefs, which include data about prevention, diagnosis, health outcomes and treatment of the disease for all 50 states and Washington, D.C. The briefs also highlight the burden of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) across the U.S., highlighting the states with the highest COPD rates and opportunities to improve the burden of the disease. Maine is one of 11 states with the highest COPD prevalence rate.
COPD, which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema, is a long-term lung disease that makes it hard to breathe. There is currently no cure for COPD, but the disease is treatable. Nationally, approximately 5 percent of adults or 12.5 million Americans are living with COPD. In Maine, 99,861 of adults have been diagnosed with COPD, with a prevalence rate is 9 percent.
Annual cost of COPD treatment is $154 million, there are 92,66, and 888 people die each year from COPD.
“Unfortunately, here in Maine, our residents face a higher burden of COPD, but together we can work to help prevent the disease and support people living with the disease to live longer and more active lives,” said Lance Boucher, director of advocacy for the American Lung Association. “The new COPD state briefs also examine key indicators for COPD in Maine, such as air quality, tobacco use, education, income level and vaccination rate, which can help us determine where to focus our prevention efforts and help those most impacted by the disease.”
Maine is one of ten states that have the highest COPD rates and highest burden in the country – Alabama, Arkansas, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Mississippi, Ohio, Tennessee and West Virginia. State prevalence rates range from 3.7% in Hawaii to 13.6% in West Virginia.
The goal of the COPD State Briefs is to raise awareness for COPD and empower public health and healthcare professionals to take actionable steps to prevent the onset of illness, reduce health inequities, set goals for earlier diagnosis and ensure clinical guidelines are used to manage and treat COPD. For Maine, the Lung Association recommends the following actions to reduce the burden of COPD:
– Use a validated COPD screening tool for people who may be at risk of COPD or reporting symptoms.
– Confirm a COPD diagnosis using spirometry, especially in primary care.
– Use evidence-based tobacco prevention and cessation services.
– Promote recommended vaccinations.
– Recommend pulmonary rehabilitation, COPD education and a COPD Action Plan.
The COPD State Briefs were created with support by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Learn more and view the COPD State Briefs at Lung.org/COPD-briefs.
by Luis Franco, senior loan specialist, Center for Rural AffairsThe holiday season is right around the corner and it comes with great news.
According to a Gallup survey, 74 percent of holiday shoppers said they expect to pay about the same amount or more on holiday gifts this year compared to last. Moreover, 23 percent of shoppers said they choose one retailer over another because they want to support small and local businesses in their community.
Small businesses are essential to rural America. When buying from local small businesses, you are supporting your community in more ways than one. The money you spend stays in the community, which supports other businesses, helps create jobs, drives economic growth, and contributes to the area’s overall well-being.
Also, consider the environmental impact of avoiding long-distance trips to purchase gifts, not to mention the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with local entrepreneurs.
Local businesses often prioritize providing a positive customer experience, as they rely on word-of-mouth referrals and repeat business to stay afloat. With greater attention to detail, a willingness to go above and beyond, and a focus on creating a welcoming and friendly environment, small businesses can make holiday shopping a breeze.
As you plan your gift-giving this holiday season, think about your community. Get out and explore the local shops, look for pop-up events such as craft shows and holiday markets, and read your local newspaper and scroll through social media as many entrepreneurs take to the platforms to advertise their goods.
The gifts you purchase this holiday season will not only make your friends and family feel loved, they will empower your community. Where you spend your money today could determine what your community looks like a year or even five years from now.
Small entrepreneurs and business owners have been working hard to prepare for the holiday season. Now, it’s time to do your part.
Established in 1973, the Center for Rural Affairs is a private, non-profit organization working to strengthen small businesses, family farms and ranches, and rural communities through action oriented programs addressing social, economic, and environmental issues.
by Mary GrowThe Dec. 14 Vassalboro select board meeting will be in the Vassalboro Community School cafeteria, instead of the town office, beginning at 6:30 p.m.
Town Manager Aaron Miller said the change is to accommodate the large crowd expected because of the first agenda item, “Discuss Vassalboro Sanitary District.”
The main issue is that sanitary district fees are stressing the budgets of residents of East and North Vassalboro. The district is in debt, mostly because of its recently-completed connection to the Winslow-Waterville system. Additionally, Winslow sewer rates have gone up.
At a Dec. 6 community meeting, some three dozen residents discussed information they hope to gain Dec. 14. They developed a list of questions to put to town and sanitary district officials and to Vassalboro’s state representatives, Senator Matthew Pouliot and Representative Richard Bradstreet.
Also on the Dec. 6 select board agenda are Vassalboro’s Tax Increment Finance District; local implications of a new state law on affordable housing; providing a generator at the town office (see the Nov. 23 issue of The Town Line, p. 3); proposed updates to cemetery rules; and engineering services for a new transfer station building (see the Dec. 7 issue of The Town Line, p. 3).
by Mary GrowChina has been awarded a $$14,440.57 state Waste Diversion Grant for improvements at the transfer station.
Town Manager Rebecca Hapgood said the bulk of the money is to be used in the compost area, expanding the compost pad and adding bins. The rest will cover installation of solar lights in the free for the taking building.
Hapgood commended transfer station staff member Chayenne “Cj” Houle for putting “a lot of time and effort” into the grant application.
Houle said China will add $4,820 in local funds, for a total project cost of $19,260.57. The work must be finished by Dec. 1, 2024; Houle said she intends to begin immediately collecting information on building permits, materials and state requirements and expectations.
Mark A. King, Organics Management Specialist in the Maine Department of Environmental Protection’s Division of Materials Management, sent Houle notice of the award on Dec. 5. He wrote that of 11 applicants, seven, including China, received all they had requested and three others received partial funding.
by Mary GrowThree members of China’s Broadband Committee met Dec. 7 to hear first-hand about failure to get a state grant this fall and future possibilities (see the Dec. 7 issue of The Town Line, p. 3).
Jayne Sullivan, of local Direct Communications subsidiary UniTel, led the discussion. She explained that the Maine Connectivity Authority (MCA), the grant-awarding body, had an advisory group’s recommendation not to fund China’s project under the 2023 Connect the Ready program.
The MCA board is scheduled to meet Dec. 12, Sullivan said.
But, she said, “It’s not over ‘til it’s over.” There is more state money available, which MCA board members might allocate to Connect the Ready, perhaps giving China a second chance in the near future.
Until the MCA board decides what to do with that money, Sullivan recommended CBC members postpone decisions.
The next round of grant applications Sullivan expects will involve a different model and different mapping of broadband service areas, though she does not yet have details.
UniTel and Direct Communications intend to continue to “fight for China,” Sullivan promised.
Committee members scheduled another meeting for 4 p.m., Thursday, Jan. 4, agreeing to cancel it if they have no further information by then.