OBITUARIES for Thursday, November 2, 2023

HENRY C. DILLENBECK

EXETER, New Hampshire – Henry “Hank” C. Dillenbeck, 94, passed away Wednesday, October 18, 2023. He was born August 18,1929, in Pittsfield, Massa­chusetts, to parents Ben and Emilie.

Henry along with his siblings, lived in Interlaken, New Jersey, before settling in China, Maine, where he had spent summers with his grandparents. After attending Coburn Classical Institute for Boys, in Waterville, Hank obtained a bachelor’s degree in forestry from the University of Maine, Orono.

Having been admitted into pilot school his senior year, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force after graduation. He trained in the desert heat of Arizona before he was deployed to serve in the Korean War in 1953. He flew several missions and endured enemy gunfire, which left him with permanent tinnitus. One positive memory of his time in Korea was the chance to meet Marilyn Monroe, whose picture he proudly displayed as a widower in later life.

Hank returned to civilian life in 1957 and was proud to be hired by what he considered the best airline in the world, American Airlines. Based out of Boston, he purchased an old Colonial in Kensington, New Hampshire, with seven acres of land – the perfect setting to grow vegetables and maintain his small farm with laying hens, ducks, Canada geese, quail, pheasant, sheep, steers, oxen and the family dog Snoopy.

After flying the Boeing 727 for 30 years, he took early retirement in 1987, and relocated back to family property in China. A pilot by profession, in his heart, Hank considered himself a biologist, a farmer, an ad­venturer, and a man from Maine. Even into his 90s, he would fondly tell new acquaintances, “I never worked under a roof!” “Biologist Hank” could rattle off the identities of seemingly any tree, bird or insect (including the Latin ones) and was particularly fond of butterflies of which he had a prized collection. (His eggshell and Indian arrowhead collections, a close second and third.)

“Farmer Hank” loved working in the woods to keep his home warm in the winter, living off his harvested vegetables all winter long, and hunting for deer with family and friends.

“Adventurer Hank” enjoyed fly-fishing in Canada, hiking into the Grand Canyon, mushing huskies in the arctic circle, trekking across glaciers in Switzerland, going on safari in Africa, and soaking up the natural beauty found in the breezes and women of Hawaii.

Hank lived a life of vigor and wanderlust, and was a man who “stayed on his feet”, just as his father instructed him to do.

“Man from Maine Hank” designed and built a cedar log camp at Killdeer Point, on China Lake, the perfect launching point to paddle his birch bark canoe, (a preferred vessel over a noisy and polluting motor boat), skip rocks at Killdeer Point, or sleep tentless under the stars. He built and installed the World Traveler Signpost still located at the four corners, in South China Village.

He cared deeply for environmental conservation and contributed to numerous wildlife groups. In both New Hampshire and Maine, he served on the boards of the town library, historical society, and community church. He was an enthusiast of Native American and Japanese culture, western art, early American history, and he supported and volunteered at the New Hampshire Farm Museum, and The Benedict Arnold Expedition Historical Society. When old age finally forced its hand, dimming once eagle-eyed vision and restricting his step, reading – another favorite pastime – became a welcomed escape and comfort. A good book took Hank to places he’d visited and still wished to explore.

He was predeceased by his wife Noriko in 2020.

He is survived by his children, Chris Gernert, of Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, Lee Young, and Amy Dillenbeck, both of Exeter, New Hampshire; four grandchildren; brother Richard Dillenbeck, of Augusta, Georgia, and China.

There will be a private family interment of ashes this summer in Waterville, followed by a celebration of life with friends at the camp he built on Killdeer Point, in China.

TERESA BUTKIEWICZ

AUGUSTA – Teresa Butkiewicz, 97, passed away on Tuesday, October 10, 2023, at Maine Veterans’ Home, in Augusta. Terri was born to Omer and Doris Proulx, in Oakland, on July 30, 1926.

Following her graduation from Waterville’s Mt. Merici Academy, Terri attended the Boston Conservatory of Music to pursue her passion for opera and to hone her beautiful mezzo-soprano voice. She later moved to New York City, where she immersed herself in its rich opera and classical music culture. In New York, Terri met Alexander Butkiewicz, who was attending Columbia College as he prepared for a career in medicine.

Terri and Alex were married in 1956. Lisa was born in 1958 and Christopher arrived in 1960. After Alex graduated from Boston University Medical School and served as a flight surgeon in the U.S. Air Force, he took his young family back to New York City, where he began his medical career. The family settled into a happy life in nearby Westchester County. Terri and Alex ultimately enjoyed retired life by dividing their time between their homes on China Lake, and in Palm Beach, Florida.

Terri will be remembered for her effervescent and charismatic personality, her enchanting operatic voice, and her love of the arts, travel, and all things French. In particular, she enjoyed singing with her local opera group, attending weekly performances at the Metropolitan Opera House, spending time with the Maryknoll Sisters, and entertaining at her home. A frequent full house of guests was clear evidence of Terri’s love of people – she had a gift for making everyone feel valued and welcome. Most of all, though, Terri will be remembered for her unshakable love of and dedication to her family.

Terri was preceded in death by a son, Christopher, and four siblings, Patricia, Raymond, Richard, and Shirley.

She is survived by her husband, Alexander, and daughter, Lisa.

A funeral Mass will be held at Notre Dame du Perpetual Secours Church, in Waterville, on Saturday, November 11, 2023, at 11 a.m.

A private interment will take place at St. Francis Cemetery on a date to be determined.

MARJORY L. LALIME

DAMARISCOTTA – Marjory Lucy (Robbins) (Feeney) Lalime, 91, of Damariscotta, peacefully passed away on Thursday, October 12, 2023, at LincolnHealth’s Miles Campus, in Damariscotta. She was born in Waterville on September 24, 1932, the daughter of Maurice Smiley Robbins and Malvena (Masse) Robbins.

Marjory attended Vassalboro schools and East Vassalboro Friends Meeting (Quaker). She graduated from Higgins Classical Institute, in Charleston, and continued her education at the University of Maine in Orono. There, she submitted the winning entry to name a new student gathering place, The Bear’s Den. Marjory graduated from the University of Maine in 1954 with a B.S. degree in nutrition. She completed a dietary internship at Beth Israel Hospital ,in Brookline, Massachusetts, in 1955.

One memorable event was the time Marjory got to shake John F. Kennedy’s hand at an event in Boston.

Marjory’s first career was as a dietician, beginning at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts. She met Joseph Patrick Feeney, a Dorchester native and U.S. Air Force veteran; they married on June 23, 1957. Just three months later, as they were expecting their first child, “Joe” (aged 24 years) died of a heart attack. Now a young widow, Marjory returned to her parents’ home in East Vassalboro. In 1959, she married Ronald Lalime, a widower with three small children. Their combined family grew to six girls.

Marjory’s love of sewing allowed her creativity to thrive as she made clothing for her daughters. She was a wonderful interior decorator and created beautiful living spaces in all her homes, throughout her life.

Marjory resumed her career as a dietitian and worked at Thayer and Seton hospitals, in Waterville, for 15 years. During this time she took up running and won many prizes.

She moved to Midcoast Maine in 1983, started a new life and established the successful Serendipity House gift shop, which became the “store to visit” for both locals and tourists. She used her composed eye and was an intelligent marketer. She was always ready to offer her clients help in finding just the right gift. Her store was full of whimsical and also practical objects sourced from all over the world. Marjory was one of the first shopkeepers to practice recycling at her shop and encouraged other shop keepers in the community to do the same.

After retiring from her business in 2002, Marjory was active in multiple bridge groups in the Midcoast area. She organized The Lincoln Home weekly bridge group, served on the board of The Lincoln Home, and supported community health care for Lifespan Family Health. She loved her volunteer work at Skidompha Secondhand Book Shop. Marjory dedicated time to support Barack Obama’s campaign volunteers. She dabbled in local theater productions and was an avid reader, Scrabble player and river watcher. She passionately lived for 40 years on the Damariscotta River.

Marj enjoyed traveling to her children’s homes in many states: Florida, Missouri, New Mexico, California, and New York; also, to Italy, the former Yugoslavia, and Aruba. She vacationed with family in Maui, The Turks and Caicos Islands, and in the Caribbean. Her work for her shop took her to many locations in the U.S. on buying trips, which she greatly enjoyed.

Marjory was predeceased by her parents; and three brothers, Louis, Gerald, and Wallace.

She is survived by her six daughters; 11 grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.

A memorial service will be in May 2024, and held outside.

Notes of condolences may be expressed to the family in care of Andrea Lalime Keushguerian, at 52 Water St., Damariscotta, ME, 04543.

STEPHEN MONTMINY

BAR HARBOR – Stephen (Steve) Montminy, 65, died unexpectedly on Thursday, September 7, 2023, in a tragic accident on Mount Desert Island.

Steve, the oldest of five children, was born on February 15, 1958, to parents Philip Arthur and Joy Maire (Bureau) Montminy, in Portland. He grew up in Waterville and graduated from Waterville High School in 1977. If a common thread could be seen through Steve’s life, it would be his unerring and steadfast commitment to family and public service and the lifelong pursuit of helping people. Steve joined the United States Air Force in 1977 and had a highly successful career of 24 years, serving in Desert Storm. He retired as a Master Sergeant in 2001 with an Associate Degree in Applied Science under his belt, many honors, and countless peers and subordinates who called him a friend and mentor.

Steve started his prolific military career at Pease Air Force Base in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, as an avionics technician. Here he reconnected with a childhood acquaintance, Kathleen (Kat) Riley, of Winslow, who he quickly realized was his soul mate, best friend, and meant to be his wife. Without hesitation, Kat stepped into the role of wife and mother to Steve’s son, Nathaniel (Nate) Montminy, from his first marriage. The trio embarked on a life of fun and adventure together at stations in Atwater, California; Okinawa, Japan; and lastly, Grand Forks, North Dakota, where Steve retired from the Air Force.

Steve had a passion for learning and living life to its fullest. He earned his pilot’s license and diving certification in Okinawa, often spending weekends flying with Nate over the Ryukyu islands, diving among some of the most beautiful coral reefs in the world with Kat and Nate, and immersing himself in the Japanese culture. While overseas, he connected with many people who have spread across the world but remain lifelong friends and family.

Upon retiring, Steve, Kat and Nate settled in Bar Harbor, where he worked for Hinkley Yachts for two years and then stepped into his role for the last 21 years as the Chief Water Operator for the Northeast Harbor Water Plant, in the Mount Desert water district. Steve’s commitment to public service continued when he joined the Mount Desert Fire Department as a volunteer and EMT. He was also past president of the Blue Hill Rifle and Pistol Club, and a member of the American Legion and MDI Photo Club. Steve loved nothing more than making a connection with people. His mustache-lined smile and infectious laugh were hallmarks of the community. It was often joked that any activity with Steve would require hours of extra time because he would inevitably run into someone or a dozen someone’s he knew who would want to catch up. He was a kind and gentle soul who not only had an unparalleled way of connecting with people but also with animals. He had countless stories of fun animal encounters and spent most mornings feeding his chipmunk friends directly out of his hands and evenings chatting softly with the generations of deer that visited him on his back deck.

Steve is survived by his wife, Kat Montminy of Bar Harbor; and son, Nate Montminy, of Hampden (wife Lera and grandsons Cash and Bayu); sister Sharon Jolicoeur, of Oakland, (husband Ken, son Tyler and daughters Jessica and Kylie); brother Stan Montminy, of Waterville (wife Colleen and daughter Casey); sister Sonya Marrello, of Londonderry, New Hampshire (husband Joe and sons Matt St. Cyr, Alex St. Cyr and Andrew St. Cyr); and brother Philip Montminy Jr., of Las Vegas, Nevada (partner Kendra Gray and daughters Kaia and Jade); several cousins.

Steve was predeceased by his parents and a uncle, Lee Bureau.

A celebration of life was held on Thursday, October 5, 2023. A graveside service was held on Friday, October 6, 2023, at the Maine Veterans’ Memorial Cemetery, 143 Blue Star Ave., Augusta, ME.

Condolences may be expressed at www.jordanfernald.com.

SHARON A. KNIGHTS

UNITY – Sharon Alberta Knights, 80, died peacefully at Heritage Rehabilitation and Living Center, in Winthrop, on Saturday, October 21, 2023. She was born in Belgrade, April 20, 1943, daughter of Clyde E. Cummings and Rena V. (Warren) Cummings.

After graduating from Belgrade High School, she married the love of her life, Lewis Knights, with whom she had five children.

Sharon worked for Depositor’s Trust Co., in Waterville, for five years before beginning her long career at shoe manufacturers – Norwalk Shoe, New Balance, Dexter Shoe. After her position was eliminated at Dexter, she attended college at KennebecValley Community College (KVCC), in Fairfield, graduating in May 2001, then worked for Pine State Trading until retirement.

One of Sharon’s favorite pastimes was listening to classic country music. In her earlier years, she and Lewis frequented The Fox Den to enjoy country music and dance, and spent many weekends camping at Smith Pond, in Brighton. Finding treasures at yard sales and anniversary trips to Campobello Island were also favorite activities. After her husband passed, she learned to crochet and enjoyed making towel hangers for people, and was blessed with the company of close friends in Unity.

Sharon was predeceased by her husband, Lewis Knights; her parents; and her son, Kris Knights.

Sharon leaves behind four children: Sharon (Maurice) Cormier, of Belgrade, Keven (Katrina) Knights, of Virginia, Kurt (Gena) Knights, of Pennsylvania, and Rebecca (Russell ‘Kato’) Ramos, of Missouri; two brothers: Robert Cummings, of Oakland, and Carroll (Sharon) Cummings, of Vassalboro; 13 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren.

A graveside service will be held at 2 p.m., on Friday, November 3, 2023, at Gould Cemetery, in Smithfield; son-in-law, Russell Ramos will officiate.

A celebration of life will follow immediately at the North Belgrade Community Center (508 Smithfield Road).

Arrangements are in the care of Wheeler Funeral Home, 26 Church Street, Oakland where memories may be shared and an online register book signed by visiting http://www.lawrybrothers.com.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to a local food pantry.

AGNES M. CASSIDY

AUGUSTA – Agnes May Cassidy, 92, a veteran of the United States Army, passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 21, 2023, while in the care of the Maine Veterans Home, in Augusta. Agnes was born in Skowhegan on May 15, 1931, to Daniel E. and Odell (Thibodeau) Cassidy.

The family moved to Portland before settling in Winslow in 1948. They owned and operated Cassidy’s Market, on Augusta Road, in Winslow, for many years.

After graduating from Winslow High School in 1949, Agnes enlisted in the Women’s Army Corps for a tour of duty and studied to become a laboratory technician. She was stationed at hospitals in Colorado, Virginia, Texas, Europe, and Okinawa. Deservedly so, Fitzsimons General Hospital, in Denver, Colorado, awarded her the Army Commendation Medal for Meritorious Service.

Agnes returned to the Northeast where she worked as a medical technician in New York. She continued her studies at Hudson River Valley Hospital, in Poughkeepsie, New York, to become a registered nurse, specializing in mental illness. She also earned a bachelor of science degree.

In 1960 Agnes was stationed at the 97th General Hospital (Army and Air Force) near Frankfurt, Germany. While there, Agnes discovered the sport of skiing. She introduced skiing to her brother, Daniel, and several of her nieces and nephews. She is, thankfully, responsible for creating a lifelong love of skiing for her family. Agnes also developed an interest in Volkswagen vans. After her return to the United States, with the help of family members stationed in Germany, she ordered and was shipped a VW camper in the early 1970s. Agnes traveled the country in the camper and shared her love of exploration with her nieces and nephews. She took them to many places including Massachusetts, New York, Colorado, and Canada.

Proudly, Agnes served at Mobile Army Surgical Hospitals (MASH) during the Vietnam War where she earned the rank of Captain. She was honorably discharged in 1969 and returned to Winslow where she continued her nursing career working at Togus VA Hospital, in Augusta, and other area hospitals. She frequently volunteered to take weekend and holiday shifts so her colleagues could spend more time with their families.

Agnes was a devoted member of the Catholic Church. She worked to promote Catholic ideas and principles throughout her community. She regularly attended the Latin Mass at the Cathedral of Immaculate Conception, in Portland. Unfortunately, Agnes was not the most punctual and often had to race to Portland to be on time for Mass. As a result, she received many speeding tickets in order to show her devotion to her faith!

After retirement, Agnes provided care to her mother, for which her family is very thankful. She also enjoyed spending time at her camp on Belgrade Lakes.

Agnes was predeceased by her parents, Daniel E. and Odell, and her brothers Lionel and Francis.

She is survived by her brother Daniel E. and his wife Jean (Mathieu), of Winslow, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held at St. John the Baptist Church, 26 Monument St., in Winslow, at 10 a.m., on Friday, November 3, 2023. A burial with military honors will immediately follow at Saint Francis Cemetery, in Waterville.

Arrangements are under the direction and care of Gallant Funeral Home, 10 Elm Street, Waterville.

An online guestbook can be signed, condolences and memories shared at http://www.gallantfh.com.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to MaineGeneral Hospice, 10 Water Street, Suite 307, Waterville, ME 04901. (www.mainegeneral.org/ hospice)

LYNNDA B. HACKETT

WINSLOW – Lynnda Beverlie Hackett, 88, of Winslow, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 24, 2023, at Glenridge Nursing Home, in Augusta. She was the wife of the late Arthur August Mea Sr. Lynnda was born in New Haven, Connecticut, on December 14, 1944, daughter of the late Arthur Acker and Muriel Hubbard Chmielewski.

She lived in Connecticut until she moved to Maine in 1984.

Lynnda is survived by her children, Arthur Mea Jr. (Rhonda) and Michael Mea (Denielle), both of Winslow, Regina (Linwood) Smith, of Port Charlotte, Florida, and Nicole Mea, of Augusta; her grandchildren, Paul (Adriana) Killam, Heather (Michael) Clark, Ashley McCutcheon (Danny) and Sarah (Derek) Poulin, Tyler and Michael Greenlaw, Mikayla Mea; six great-grandchildren; her sister, Lexie (Jeff) Klarman and her sister-in-law Mary Martin, both of Branford, Connecticut, and many nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her son, Edward Mea, and brothers, Arthur Acker, August and Robert Helland.

Lynnda, known to many as “Mama Mea”, was a fabulous cook, had an amazing green thumb, loved her cats and was the strongest woman we knew.

Relatives and friends are invited to visiting hours on Sunday Oct. 29, 2023, from 2-4 p.m., at Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 107 Main Street, Fairfield. A graveside service was held on Monday, October 30, at Libby Hill Cemeter,y in Albion.

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.

JEFFERY THOMAS

CLINTON – Jeffery Thomas passed away unexpectedly at his home on Tuesday, August 29, 2023. He was born in Provi­dence, Rhode Island, the son of Edwin and Harriet (Snell)Thomas. He will be greatly missed by family and friends. Burial with military honors took place at Rhode Island Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Exeter, Rhode Island, on Saturday, October 28, 2023.

A full obituary may be seen at http://www.lawrybrothers.com.

DONALD E. LaROCHELLE

WATERVILLE – Donald E. LaRochelle, 86, of Waterville, died Wed­nesday, October 25, 2023, at Oak Grove, in Waterville. Born February 16, 1937, in Waterville, he was the only child of Wilfred and Alice LaRochelle (Joler).

Don attended Waterville schools and married the love of his life, T. Pauline LaRochelle, on February 5, 1965, in Oakland. He worked at the Wyandotte-Woosted Woolen Mill, in Waterville, for 26 years where he gained the nickname “Red” for his red hair, until the mill closed. Don then worked at Mount St. Joseph, in Waterville, until he retired in 2010.

Don loved dancing, was a member of the Boy Scouts of America for many years and enjoyed spending time with his family and watching his favorite shows on TV including football, wrestling, and the Hallmark channel.

Don was predeceased by his parents, and his wife, T. Pauline LaRochelle (Poirier) who passed away in 2009.

He is survived by his three children, Julie Stillwell, of Winslow, Tim, of Smithfield, and Dan and his wife Libby, of Waterville; and two grandchildren Sara Warner (Stillwell) and her husband Forest, of Topsham, and Joshua Stillwell, of Winslow; and two great-grandchildren, Madelyn and Elijah, of Winslow; along with several cousins.

A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at 10 a.m., Thursday, November 2, at Notre Dame Catholic Church, in Waterville. He will be buried at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, Waterville.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Veilleux and Redington Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made online to the American Heart Association at https://www.heart.org/ by following the link Ways to Give, then make a memorial donation.

STEPHEN F. THOMPSON

OAKLAND – Stephen F. Thompson, 69, of Oakland, passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 26, 2023. Stephen was born in Brookline, Massachusetts, on November 5, 1953, the son of Edward and Constance (Reed) Thompson.

He graduated early from Brookline High School to join the U.S. Air Force where he served four years as a sergeant in U-Tapao Air Force Base, in Thailand, during the Vietnam conflict.

After leaving the Air Force, Stephen moved to Waterville, where he served in the police department for four years. While on the force, he met Tom Hachey, who became his lifelong friend and business partner and, some may say, his “partner in crime.” Together, they owned and operated Arbo’s Towing and Repair service for several decades.

Stephen was known by all for his extraordinarily generous heart. He organized countless fundraisers in the community and brought immeasurable joy to numerous local daycares and nursing homes as Santa Claus every holiday season. Stephen and Tom originated the annual “Buck Night” fundraiser at the Waterville Elks Lodge and were recently recognized for their efforts with the dedication of the Thompson and Hachey Pavilion.

He was predeceased by his father Edward Thompson, mother Constance (Reed) Thompson, brothers, Jimmy and John Thompson, and brother-in-law Richard Paquette.

Stephen is survived by his wife of 22 years Carol (Paquette) Thompson; sons, Thomas Thompson, of Ingleside, Texas, and Barry Martin with wife Rebecca, of Drummonds, Tennessee; daughters, Nicole Boivin with wife Laura Casey, of Limerick, and Katie (Boivin) Demanche with husband Leo, of Standish; grandchildren, Steven Charles Thompson, Caitlyn and Dean Martin, Brennan and Noah Demanche, and Broghan and Finnegan Casey; his sisters, June McNulty with husband Jack and Cheryl Long with husband Mark; brothers-in-law, Michael Paquette, Gary Paquette with wife Kathleen, and Roger Paquette with wife Shari; sisters-in-law, Judy Paquette with husband Brian Bertelsen, Michele Lacombe with husband John, and Melissa Paquette; along with several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A celebration of Stephen’s life will be held at the Waterville Elks Lodge, Industrial Park Road, on Thursday, November 9, at 11 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in honor of Stephen to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation. To learn more about the amazing work of this organization, visit: https://t2t.org/.

EVELYN M. POTTER

CHINA – Evelyn M. Potter, 87, passed away on Friday, October 27, 2023, at Woodlands Senior Living, of Hallowell. She was born on December 27, 1935, a daughter of Elmer and Isabelle (Halloway) Haskell.

Evelyn grew up in China and attended Erskine Academy, in South China. After marrying David Potter in 1952, she became a mother to children, Lorraine and David. Evelyn received her associate degree from the University of Maine at Augusta and her bachelor’s degree from St. Joseph’s College. She became a Registered Nurse and worked at various healthcare facilities including AMHI and Riverview.

Evelyn enjoyed tending to her gardens, shopping, and traveling. She was pleased to have the experience of traveling to Europe and the Amazon. Time spent with family made her happy, especially during the Christmas season. Evelyn will be remembered for her spicey personality, generous spirit, and independence.

She was predeceased by her parents; her husband; her son, David T. Potter; her son-in-law, Dean Rhoades; and her brother Merton Haskell.

She is survived by her daughter, Lorraine Rhoades; her grandchildren, Kevin Rhoades and his wife Jerry, Kelly Rhoades, and Shawn Potter and his partner, Danielle Guimond; and her niece Sandra Campbell and her husband, Albert.

A graveside service will be held on Tuesday, November 7, at 10 a.m., at the Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 143 Blue Star Ave., Augusta ME 04330.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Plummer Funeral Home, 16 Pleasant St., Augusta, ME 04330. Condolences, stories and photos may be shared by visiting http://www.plummerfh.com.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Branch Mills Grange, 20 Branch Mills Rd., Palermo, ME 04354.

ISABELL WITHAM

FAIRFIELD – Isabell Witham, 92, passed away Friday, October 27, 2023. She was born October 14, 1931, to Ethel Marshall and Frank Niles, in Augusta.

Isabell married Bill Witham and raised their daughter Linda at their home in Benton. She worked many years at the Cascade Woolen Mill, in Oakland, where she retired. Isabell enjoyed spending time with her family by hosting dinners on Sundays. She enjoyed cooking, knitting and crocheting. She made many hats and mittens for the church and afghans for her family and friends. She loved to chat on the CB and would go by the handle Biscuit Maker.

She is predeceased by her parents; her husband Bill Witham and her brother Frank Niles.

Isabell is survived by her daughter Linda Davis; granddaughter Christine Fontaine and husband Ted Fontaine; grandson Keith Davis and wife Magda Davis; three great-grandchildren, Mariah, Nicolas and McKenzie; and two great-great-grandchildren, Reed and Walker.

Funeral services will ve held on Saturday, November 4, 2023, at 11 a.m., at Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 107 Main Street, Fairfield, Maine. Burial will take place at Maplewood Cemetery, ,in Fairfield.

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.

WINDSOR: Trucks/equipment discussed at select board meeting

by The Town Line staff

At the October 10 meeting of the Windsor Select Board, there was discussion of the truck/equipment schedule. Public Works Supervisor Keith Hall spoke to the time line and the notes he made on a handout for replacing each of the trucks and equipment. He informed the board that two trucks – #5 and #6 – are currently in the shop for repairs. He noted the parts are expensive and the dealereship seems to be having problems getting the parts. His plan is to have the trucks back in service before snow fall.

The select board noted that with the cost of parts and repairs, it may be time to look at increasing the budget line for the public works department in the future.

Hall also told the board the quote to replace the 2016 International dump truck with plow would be upwards of $160,000. The board said it would have to be included in the 2024-25 budget. More discussion is planned.

Town Manager Theresa Haskell gave out the monthly transfer station report. September was up from last year with $2,471.75, making the overall today for the year to $6,644.45.

Transfer station committee member Tom Reed spoke about the solid waste ordinance that the the committee has already approved, and he has a few additional updates to be made to the wording before the final print of the ordinance is approved by the select board.

In other business, the select board unanimously accepted the resignation of Sean Teekema from the Windsor Transfer Station. Hall said that he and Tim from public works have been helping at the transfer station due to the short staff in the department. The position will be posted on the town webpage and on the town office sign, with the hopes of filling the position soon.

Monique Crommett was present on behalf of RSU #12. Haskell inquired about the electric bus. Crommett said the bus is not yet here and they are still waiting for it.

Sandra Grecrenko asked the select board what the requirement is for a property to be considered a residence. The select board answered to the best of their ability giving the answer the property would need to have a dwelling, water, septic and electric present. Following more discussion, the board felt they didn’t have appropriate answers or information. The board suggested she set up a meeting with Codes Enforcement Office Arthur Strout for answers.

Crommett suggested it would be helpful to residents if Strout have available a list when residents come to him, explaining “A-Z” what is needed when someone is getting ready to build whether it is from ground up or simnply putting in a new septic system. She feels it would cut down on confusion and questions by a lot of residents if they had a simple check list to which to refer.

F. Gerard Nault inquired about the upcoming public hearing. The hearing will be to see if the town would enact a Maine Site Plan Review Ordinance, set for November 1, with a special town meeting slated for November 9, at 6:30 p.m., at the Windsor Town Hall.

The next meeting of the select board was planned for October 24, 2023.

China assessment review board denies abatement request

by Mary Grow

At an Oct. 25 meeting, three members of China’s board of assessment review unanimously upheld the board of assessors (also the select board), who on Aug. 28 denied Marie Michaud’s application for a property tax abatement.

Michaud believes her shorefront lot on the west side of China Lake is overvalued. She said the lake bottom in front of her property is weedy and muddy and the water is shallow, making the area unfit for swimming.

Select board members denied Michaud’s abatement request on a 3-2 vote. Michaud appealed to the board of assessment review.

Assessor William Van Tuinen answered questions about how he – or any assessor – determines property values, based on the property’s characteristics and on area selling prices.

There are three categories of lake frontage, he said. The highest, A, is for properties with a good view of the water and usable frontage. A lot with a buffer – conforming to recommended water quality protection practices – that blocked the view, or with less usable frontage, would be rated B.

Michaud’s lot Van Tuinen rated C, the lowest category, indicating he shared her opinion that it was not among the most desirable lots on the lake. He calculated the valuation and resulting tax bill using that rating.

After considering Van Tuinen’s information and lists of “comps” – supposedly comparable properties – presented by both parties, board members voted unanimously that the assessment was appropriate.

The board’s meeting, the first since February 2021, began with re-election of chairman Dale Peabody and secretary Harold Charles.

CHINA: Only three of six candidates take part in forum

Albert Church Brown Memorial Library in China Village.

by Mary Grow

Three of the six candidates on China’s Nov. 7 local election ballot attended the Oct. 28 candidates’ forum at the Albert Church Brown Memorial Library, in China Village.

Moderator Louisa Barnhart, chairman of the library’s board of trustees, asked about the candidates’ favorite charities, their reading preferences and their positions on local issues.

  • Jeanne Marquis, candidate for select board, lives on Neck Road and described her occupation as an organizer for Mobilize Recovery (see Box below).

Mobilized Recovery explained

Mobilize Recovery is a national organization with a branch in Augusta. Its purpose is to deal with the national addiction crisis, including preventing addiction and helping people already addicted to survive and to recover.

The Maine Recovery Advocacy Project Facebook page says:

“We are thrilled about the level of support we have received by Kennebec County and our awesome volunteers. We are now beginning to see that our first year’s goal of visiting 5,000 homes is well within our reach. We want to thank the Kennebec County Commissioners who provided the grant to enable us to do this project and thank all the 3,882 homes we have visited so far.

“We are encouraged to see so many people realize the importance of carrying Narcan in their purses, back packs, brief cases or glove compartment of their cars – even if they don’t know someone who uses drugs. You’ll never know when you might be able to save someone’s life.”

It adds details about achieving the 2023 goal:

“So far this year, we visited 3,882 homes, trained 1,592 people to use Nar[c]an and distributed 3,510 boxes of Narcan.”

The Facebook page says the physical address is 59 Bangor Street, Augusta; the telephone number is (207)593-6251; and the email address is courtney@recoveryvoices.com.

Nonprofit groups she supports include local organizations (China Lake Association, the volunteer fire department and China for a Lifetime); environmental organizations (Nature Conservancy and Sierra Club); and addiction recovery organization (Maine Recovery Advocacy Project and Mobilize Recovery).

Her favorite living author is non-fiction writer Johann Hari. Her favorite writer is the late Toni Morrison, especially her poetry.

  • Elaine Mather, planning board candidate, lives on Weeks Mills Road and is retired from her job as a prosecutor for misdemeanors in Henderson, Nevada. She moved to China to be near family members.

Mather’s charities include the American Diabetes Association, the Salvation Army and the Boy Scouts of America. Her favorite writer is Brad Thor, author of the Scot Harvath thrillers.

  • Thomas Rumpf, budget committee candidate, lives on Hanson Road and works as a bridge estimator. He devotes volunteer time – up to 60 hours a week, he said — to the China Four Seasons Club, of which he is president.

He also supports the Masons and is a member of two local lodges; and the Red Cross, including as a platelet and blood donor. He spends his working hours reading blueprints and has little time for leisure reading.

The two policy questions Barnhart asked were about the proposed LS power line and about a future public beach on China Lake. Candidates added two more issues, lack of volunteers for town boards and organizations, and the need to entice more businesses to locate in China.

None of the three supports the LS powerline. Rumpf’s principal objection is “the very sneaky way it came about – the landowners were all taken by surprise.”

Marquis and Mather were concerned about the effect on China’s rural nature and environment, especially the potential loss of good farmland. Marquis emphasized she was speaking personally, not for the select board. Mather said her decisions as a planning board member would be based on ordinances, not on her personal views.

No candidate had a plan for providing public beach access to China Lake. All agreed a town-owned beach would make more work for the town’s public works department and would require additional insurance.

Marquis praised the Four Seasons Club beach on China Lake’s east shore. It is open to club members for what the club website says is an annual $35 general membership fee.

All three regretted the lack of volunteers for town boards and local organizations. Rumpf praised the excellent volunteers who keep the Four Seasons Club active, and said if there were more, the club could add projects and events.

He raised the issue of attracting business, calling China “business-unfriendly” and naming businesses that have moved to other towns. China officials do not offer tax breaks to new businesses; and they collect the state-mandated personal property tax on businesses, a requirement he said some Maine municipalities ignore.

Rumpf’s main argument was that more businesses would increase the local tax base. He acknowledged the need for regulation to protect local values.

Librarian Miranda Perkins’ video of the forum is available on line for interested voters, via a link on the Albert Church Brown Memorial Library website.

No contests on China ballot

There are no contests and no new names on China’s Nov. 7 local election ballot, though there are lines for write-in candidates.

For the board of selectmen, Wayne Chadwick and Jeanne Marquis seek re-election.

For planning board District 3 (southeastern China), Elaine Mather, appointed in late August to finish Michael Sullivan’s term, is a candidate for re-election. There is no candidate for District 1 (northwestern China).

For the budget committee, chairman Thomas Rumpf and District 1 candidate Kevin Maroon are unopposed for re-election. There is no candidate for District 3.

The position of budget committee secretary is also open, Trishea Story having resigned some months ago. Because that term does not end until 2024, it is not on the ballot.

Anyone interested in serving in an unfilled position is invited to call the China town office at 445-2014.

On Nov. 7, China polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. in the former portable building behind the town office on Lakeview Drive.

Scouts hold haunted woods event at Camp Bomazeen

Dread Pirate Eric Handley, of Sidney, helped with registration for the Haunted Woods. He is also Scoutmaster of Sidney Troop #401 who camped over the weekend.

Text and photos
by Chuck Mahaleris

Sullivan Mudie, of Augusta, was at camp with his mom Lynette Mudie. Sullivan is a Lion Cub in Pack #684 and is in kindergarten. “I liked seeing the bumblebees,” Sullivan said. “And shooting the pumpkins with the BB Gun.”

Kids and parents clad in cute or creepy costumes skulked through Camp Bomazeen on October 14 for the annual Haunted Woods event. Cub Scouts and their parents donned fantastic or phantasmic costumes on Saturday and visited different activity areas around camp such as Archery, BB Gun Shooting, the Haunted House run by Augusta Troop 603, outdoor cooking, the obstacle course, pumpkin painting, and arts and crafts. In the evening, after the younger Scouts went home with their parents, the older Scouts from area Troops took part in the haunted hike that lasted until the witching hour (11 PM). Julie McKenney of Belgrade organized the program. “It is so much fun to watch the younger kids and their parents have fun together at Camp,” she said. “Everyone loves to get into the spirit of Halloween and it is a great family program. Then at night, the older Scouts test their Scouting knowledge and their courage as they have to survive the Haunted Trail at night.” The Troops also had a gateway competition and a stew cookoff.

The Haunted House beneath the dining hall was guarded by the Grim Reaper (Joseph Maranda) and his son Owen Maranda, of Augusta and Chelsea. Owen is a Tenderfoot Scout in Troop #631, where his dad is one of the Assistant Scoutmasters. “I’m having fun directing people into the Haunted House,” Owen said.

Issue for October 26, 2023

Issue for October 26, 2023

Celebrating 35 years of local news

Lawrence High School student wins Red Cross scholarship

SNash Corson, of Albion, helped save lives by hosting an American Red Cross blood drive and earned a $1,000 scholarship as a result of his lifesaving efforts. As part of the Red Cross Leaders Save Lives program, the Lawrence High School junior hosted a blood drive at the Fairfield Church of the Nazarene which collected 25 pints of lifesaving blood. As a result, Corson was eligible to be entered into a drawing for a scholarship and was chosen as a winner…

Town News

Select board acts on three spending requests

CHINA – China select board members acted on three spending requests at their Oct. 23 meeting. They held a long discussion about trucks with Director of Public Services Shawn Reed. Reed reported the previously authorized new town truck, once scheduled for September delivery, is not yet even “on the assembly line,” due to a series of delays (including a major fire at a supplier’s factory)…

Transfer committee reviews 5-year plan

CHINA – At their Oct. 17 meeting, China transfer station committee members reviewed the five-year plan for the facility and talked about relations with neighbors Palermo and Albion. The plan includes repairs and replacements and a few minor additions, like a storage area for propane tanks and the previously-discussed lighting for the free for the taking building (both scheduled for 2024)…

TownCloud Inc. selected to design and maintain new website

VASSALBORO – After another long discussion, Vassalboro select board members at their Oct. 19 meeting unanimously accepted town Manager Aaron Miller’s recommendation: TownCloud, Inc., will design and maintain the new town website…

Board works toward solving heat problems at school

VASSALBORO – Vassalboro school board members have decided on measures to minimize heat waves inside Vassalboro Community School (VCS), no matter what the weather outside does…

Residents propose using funds to honor veterans

PALERMO – On Thursday, October 19, the Palermo Town Council heard a proposal from two residents interested in using charitable fundraiser proceeds to honor veterans from town. Representing the American Legion, Palermo residents Paul Hunter and Gary Jones approached the town council after being selected by the Palermo Friends and Neighbors ATV club as one of four recipients of an annual fundraiser… by Jonathan Strieff

Fairfield election notes

FAIRFIELD – Residents of Fairfield may cast their ballots on Tuesday, November 7, 2023, at the Fairfield Community Center, 61 Water Street, Fairfield, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. The local ballot will include…

Name that film!

Identify the film in which this famous line originated and qualify to win FREE passes to The Maine Film Center, in Waterville: “One word: Plastics.” Email us at townline@townline.org with subject “Name that film!” Deadline for submission is November 9, 2023…

Webber’s Pond

Webber’s Pond is a comic drawn by an anonymous central Maine resident (click thumbnail to enlarge)…

New primary care doctor comes home to care for his community

OAKLAND – Northern Light Primary Care, in Oakland, welcomes Gavin Hannon, DO, to its team. Dr. Hannon grew up in Oakland and has come back to care for his hometown community…

Vassalboro scouts learn orienteering

VASSALBORO – Members of the Maine Warden Service took time out of their schedules to teach Scouts in Vassalboro Cub Scout Pack #410 orienteering to help the Scouts understand how to navigate their way in Maine’s woods. The compass training took place at Thurston Park, in China, on Monday, October 16…

Local student inducted into National Scholastic Honor Society

SKOWHEGAN – Saint Anselm College student Christopher B. King, of Sidney, a Natural Sciences major in the class of 2024, has been inducted into the Tau Chapter of the Delta Epsilon Sigma National Scholastic Honor Society for the 2022-2023 academic year, in Manchester, New Hampshire. Students are considered for membership if they have completed at least 50% of the credit requirements for their degree and are ranked in the top 20% of their class…

Local happenings

EVENTS: Thank you for your service!

CHINA – Boynton-Webber American Legion Post #179, in South China, will be hosting a turkey dinner for veterans, and one guest, on Wed­nesday, Nov­ember 8, starting at noon, at the South China Legion Hall, at 79 Legion Memorial Drive, South China….

CALENDAR OF EVENTS: Palermo Library’s chili fundraiser

PALERMO — The Palermo Community Library is sponsoring a Chili Fundraiser on Saturday, November 4, 2023, from 11 a.m. – p.m. The cost is $7 for a 12 oz. container of delicious homemade chili (spicy, mild, or meatless), a cornbread muffin, a 16 oz. bottle of water, and two chocolate chip cookies… and many other local events!

Obituaries

WINSLOW – Edward Nelson Tansey, 79, of Winslow, passed away on Sunday, September 24, 2023. He was born, in Boston, Massachusetts, on June 11, 1944… and remembering 11 others.

Up and down the Kennebec Valley: Inventions, agriculture & others (new)

ME HISTORY — Previous articles have talked about how agricultural work changed from the 1700s through the 1800s, as manpower was replaced by animal-power and then machines. Other changes, too, helped farmers produce more or expend less effort or both… by Mary Grow

Up and down the Kennebec Valley: Agriculture – Part 7

VASSALBORO HISTORY — Recent articles have mentioned two Vassalboro men, Thomas Stackpole Lang and Hall Chase Burleigh, who each deserve more attention for their agricultural contributions, along with Lang’s father, John Damon Lang… by Mary Grow

Up and down the Kennebec Valley: Agriculture – Part 6

WATERVILLE HISTORY — Another locally-bred trotting horse, even more famous than General Knox (described last week), was Nelson. Nelson was a bay horse. The color is described on line as “a reddish-brown or brown body color with a black point coloration on the mane, tail, ear edges, and lower legs.” Several on-line pictures dramatically contrast his dark mane with his lighter body. He stood a little over 15 hands (readers will remember a hand equals four inches)… by Mary Grow

Up and down the Kennebec Valley: Agriculture – Part 5

KV HISTORY — Some of the central Kennebec Valley agricultural pioneers chose to breed racehorses, specifically trotters, instead of, or in addition to, the cattle discussed last week. For example, Kingsbury mentioned in the chapter on Waterville in his Kennebec County history that George Eaton Shores, of Waterville, who bred Hereford cattle, “also handled some horses, selling in 1879 the race horse Somerset Knox for $2,700″… by Mary Grow

Common Ground: Win a $10 gift certificate!

DEADLINE: Wednesday, November 16, 2023

Identify the people in these three photos, and tell us what they have in common. You could win a $10 gift certificate to Hannaford Supermarket! Email your answer to townline@townline.org or through our Contact page. Include your name and address with your answer. Use “Common Ground” in the subject!

Previous winner: Maylou Ripley, Oakland

Town Line Original Columnists

Roland D. HalleeSCORES & OUTDOORS

by Roland D. Hallee | There they were! Marching along the railing of my porch as my wife and I were enjoying the day’s end of sunshine on a Saturday afternoon. They formed a column like a trucking convoy, one behind the other, all heading in the same direction. Blackish-colored bugs with red stripes, about a half inch long. I had seen them before, but not this many…

CRITTER CHATTER

by Jayne Winters | When I visited with Don today, there were two new admissions in small cages in his living room: a young chipmunk and a gray squirrel, both likely HBC (Hit By Car) victims. The chipmunk wasn’t in good shape; he was hunched up in a corner of his cage, his fur very disheveled. Don said he didn’t appear to have any broken bones, but initially had a bloody mouth and was in shock…

Peter CatesREVIEW POTPOURRI

by Peter Cates | Great American Songbook composer Jerome Kern (1885-1945) was so captivated by reading Edna Ferber’s 1926 novel Showboat that he immediately saw its possibilities as a musical on Broad­way. But he had never met Miss Ferber and had no idea how she’d respond…

I’M JUST CURIOUS

by Debbie Walker | I may wind up regretting this, but… you know I love to share knowledge (?). The back up story here is my friend, Edgar, who gave me a couple of books years ago. They have been packed in storage, but I found them again last week. The name of one book is Uncle John’s Supremely Satisfied Bathroom Reader, by the Bathroom Reader’s Institute…

VETERANS CORNER

by Gary Kennedy | Many veterans complain about back pain and perhaps that is one of the most common complaints from our new veterans, especially if they are vets who are retiring after 20-plus years. If you take into consideration the nature of this type of career you will find that many of the venues residing within the military are extremely taxing on the human body. A soldier must be fit or put in shape in order to perform at peak proficiency…

FOR YOUR HEALTH

(NAPSI) —When you’re jetting away from rainy Washington for vacation, your suitcases are often filled with traveling essentials, but did you think of what you may need in case of a dental emergency while relaxing in paradise? “It is important to know whom to call, where to go and what insurance can cover,” said Kyle Dosch DDS, Delta Dental of Washington’s dental director and a member dentist. “This ensures that your smile stays healthy at home and while traveling”…

FOR YOUR HEALTH: How to plan for dental emergencies while away

Don’t let tooth troubles take a bite out of your vacation fun. Plan ahead how you’ll deal with dental emergencies.

(NAPSI)—When you’re jetting away from rainy Washington for vacation, your suitcases are often filled with traveling essentials, but did you think of what you may need in case of a dental emergency while relaxing in paradise?

“It is important to know whom to call, where to go and what insurance can cover,” said Kyle Dosch DDS, Delta Dental of Washington’s dental director and a member dentist. “This ensures that your smile stays healthy at home and while traveling.”

Not all dental issues are life-threatening, and some, such as a mild toothache, can wait until you return home safely from your travels. However, if you are experiencing intense dental troubles, it is important to be attentive to these issues as they arise:

• A broken or dislodged tooth
• Continuous gum or mouth bleeding
• Broken orthodontics
• A toothache accompanied by a fever
• Sudden, severe pain in your jawbone
• Sudden swelling in your mouth and/or gums
• Discoloration or growths in your mouth

If the pain is severe, you may need to go to the nearest emergency room for medical attention. Keep in mind that an emergency doctor can typically prescribe only pain medication or make a few stitches to wounded areas. To receive attention from a licensed dentist, make sure to call ahead and schedule an appointment to better suit your needs and have a plan in action. However, if in the case of immediate dental attention, most dental practices offer emergency appointments for new and existing patients. Make sure to call ahead to check that their practice accommodates for new patient emergencies.

Plan for Dental Emergencies Before Traveling

Most dental insurance plans, including most Delta Dental plans, have some coverage for emergency care whether your travels include the United States or outside of the country.

To ensure you will be well-covered and equipped for any emergency, review your coverage benefits and identify emergency care options before taking off on your trip. By doing so, you have a good idea of your home coverage plan. If dental care is needed while you are traveling, book an appointment with your regular dentist for a follow-up visit as soon as you return. Additionally, make sure your records are updated with any treatment received out of town.

What to Consider When Experiencing Dental Issues Abroad

Dental emergencies present their own special challenge, especially when facing them outside the country. The best way to begin is by using the resources around you. If staying at a hotel, hostel, or Airbnb, speak with the concierge or a trusted fellow traveler for a recommendation or for the country’s professional dental association. This association can help point you in the right direction for the names of reputable dental clinics in the area. For extra assurance, do some research on the establishment to confirm its legitimacy. One thing to keep in mind is that this dental visit will be paid out of pocket, so when you return home, you will need to file your own claim. Make sure to keep a copy of this detailed billing statement to send with your dental insurance emergency claim form. It is important to double check the information about the treatment (including tooth numbers if any were involved, date of service and total cost) is correct. After checking the information, your dental insurance provider will do a currency conversion at the time of reimbursement. Additionally, if your billing statement is in another language, ask for it to be translated.

Travel With Ease of Mind

If you experience a dental emergency while traveling and you can visit an in-network dentist in any state, you will be covered at the same rate as in your home coverage. If you need to visit an out-of-network dentist, you will have to pay out-of-network coinsurance. Then, you will need to submit an Interactive ADA claim form. The most important step to remember is to always ask for a detailed receipt for your exam or medical treatment.

For more information on experiencing dental issues while traveling, visit Delta Dental of Washington’s blog at www.deltadentalwa.com.

I’M JUST CURIOUS: Do you bathroom read?

by Debbie Walker

I may wind up regretting this, but… you know I love to share knowledge (?). The back up story here is my friend, Edgar, who gave me a couple of books years ago. They have been packed in storage, but I found them again last week. The name of one book is Uncle John’s Supremely Satisfied Bathroom Reader, by the Bathroom Reader’s Institute.

One subject caught my eye: it is What’s in Toothpaste? Have you ever wondered what is in toothpaste? I can’t say I ever really wondered but when I saw this I had to know! I hope you will find this as fun as I did.

About 30 percent to 40 percent water (so many products are mainly water!)

Chalk. The same variety schoolteachers use. Did you know chalk is crushed remains of ancient ocean critters? They are rough but gentle enough to clean.

Titanium dioxide. It goes into white wall paint to make it bright. For at least a few hours it does the same for your teeth until it all dissolves and you swallow it. (Lovely thought, isn’t it, but wait! There is more!)

Glycerin glycol. It keeps the mixture from drying out. Did you know it is an ingredient in antifreeze?

Seaweed. It is made to allow oozing and stretching in all directions and hold the paster together.

Paraffin, it’s a derivative that keeps the mixture smooth.

Detergent. Toothpaste without foam and suds? What good would it be? It would be perfectly fine, but the public demands foam and suds.

Peppermint oil, menthol, and saccharin. These counteract the horrible taste of detergent.

Formaldehyde. The same kind is used in anatomy labs. Kills bacteria that creep into the tube from your brush and bathroom counter.

Does this recipe turn you off? Don’t worry, studies have shown brushing with plain water can be almost as effective.

Do you still want to read in the bathroom?

I am switching over to another Uncle John’s book. It is Uncle John’s Slightly Irregular Bathroom Reader. The page about LOVE…And MARRIAGE.:

“I love being married. I was single for a long time, and I just got sick of finishing my own sentences.” (Brian Kiley)

“They say marriage is a contract. No, it’s not. Contracts come with warranties.” (Wanda Sykes)

“My husband and I celebrated our 38th wedding anniversary. I finally realized that if I had killed that man the first time I thought about it, I’d have been out of jail by now.” (Anita Milner)

“Getting married is a lot like getting into a tub of hot water. After you get used to it, it ain’t so hot.” (Minnie Pearl)

“The Wedding March always reminds me of the music played when soldiers go off to battle.” (Heinrich Heine)

“Never get married in the morning – you never know who you might meet that night,” (Paul Hornung)

“Marriage is like a phone call in the night: first the ring, and then you wake up. (Evelyn Hendrickson)

For the last one, please don’t be offended) . “Before we got engaged, he never farted. Now it’s like a second language.” (Adela Rogers St. John)

I’m just curious if Edgar will realize he is responsible for this column!! Any questions or comments, contact me at DebbieWalker@townline.org . Have a great week!

REVIEW POTPOURRI – Composer: Jerome Kern

Jerome Kern

Peter Catesby Peter Cates

Jerome Kern

Great American Songbook composer Jerome Kern (1885-1945) was so captivated by reading Edna Ferber’s 1926 novel Showboat that he immediately saw its possibilities as a musical on Broad­way. But he had never met Miss Ferber and had no idea how she’d respond.

One even­ing at a theater reception, he spotted an acquaintance, the notoriously outspoken book re­viewer/­author/theater critic/­radio personality Alexander Woollcott (1887-1943) who was chatting with a woman and who could possibly arrange an introduction, given his own connections in the publishing world; Kern approached Woollcott with his request.

Woollcott replied that Ferber was very reclusive and inapproachable and could not imagine her wanting to even discuss the matter but would see what could be done. He then turned to the woman sitting next to him and said, “Edna Ferber (1885-1968), meet Jerome Kern. ”

With lyricist Oscar Hammerstein, Kern worked very quickly and the musical premiered on Broadway in less than a year. It was a huge success, it has generated at least two films in Hollywood, numerous recordings of selections have been released – I am quite fond of a 1946 Columbia Masterworks set- but Showboat had to wait until the mid-1980s for a complete recording of its three hour plus length of music and drama.

Edna Ferber

In 1980, I attended a production of Showboat at the Houston Grand Opera starring Donald O’Connor, a quite memorable evening.

Certain songs from the musical still resound – My Man Bill, Can’t Help Lovin’ That Man, and Old Man River.

A Music Treasures of the World LP from the ‘50s contains the nicely scored Showboat Symphonic Suite conducted by William Strickland (MT-31).

I recently listened to several other records here at the house of Kern compositions:

Columbia A5081 – a December 31, 1908, 12-inch shellac featuring soprano Elise Stevenson singing a very charming song, Frieda, from the 1908 Broadway musical, the Girls of Gottenberg, which closed after less than a year.

Victor 35425 – a November 24th, 1914, shellac, also 12 inch, featuring the Victor Military Band performing a medley of tunes from the Girl from Utah, which includes the classic They Didn’t Believe Me.

Victor Red Seal – a 1938 set of six 12-inch 78s, Gems from Jerome Kern Musical Shows, presenting the Victor Light Opera Company directed by Leonard Joy.

ES 10, a 1960 LP with Ed Sullivan’s written notes on Kern’s 1933 musical Roberta and selections from it performed by the uncredited vocalists listed simply as the Ed Sullivan All Star Cast, the record having sold in supermarkets for $1.69. Selections included Yesterdays, Smoke Gets in Your Eyes and Lovely to Look At, and were very nicely performed.

Book of the Month Records 41 – 7511, a 1984 three LP set with booklet, Jerome Kern Master of Melody, and containing vintage recordings of his music that range from Paul Whiteman to Perry Como.

The arranger/composer Paul Weston related an anecdote about working with Kern in Hollywood. The older composer told Weston, “Whenever you get told to do something that doesn’t make any sense, you ask why and keep asking why until you get an answer that does.”

On November 11, 1945, Jerome Kern died in a New York City hospital, at the age of 60, from a cerebral hemorrhage he had suffered six days earlier; Oscar Hammerstein was keeping a vigil in the room when Kern stopped breathing.

Fairfield election notes (November 2023)

Residents of Fairfield may cast their ballots on Tuesday, November 7, 2023, at the Fairfield Community Center, 61 Water Street, Fairfield, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

The local ballot will include:

  • Council: one seat, 3-year Term, there are three candidates
  • KWD: 1 Seat, 3-year term, there is one Declared Write-In
  • Charter Commission: six seats, 1-year Term, Write-In only contest; must be 18, qualified registered voters of Fairfield, willing to take the Oath of Office/Code of Conduct, and serve in accordance with the Town Charter and State Statutes (no candidates took out nomination papers by deadline)

ABSENTEE VOTING:

You may request an absentee ballot up to 90 days prior to election however;
Ballots are available 30 Days Prior to Election: October 9. Deadline to request Absentee is November 2. Absentee ballot s may be dropped off in the Drop-Box (24/7 Secure/no-contact).

Absentee Application: MAILERS: These are not sent from the municipality – these are facilitated by the political parties or third party drives – whatever manner you request an absentee, please submit only ONE request per election.

In-person: Voter Registration, Absentee Requests: Mon, – Fri,m 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Late Hours, October 30, 5 – 6 p.m.

Voter Registration:

Not Registered to Vote? Contact Town Clerk/Voter Registrar (ID & Proof of Residency required)

Closed Period: 21 days prior to election, thereafter all voter registrations must be in person with ID and Proof of Residency (Closed-Period/In-Person only commences on October 17, 2023). Voter Registration & General Information on Elections

Party Enrollment Changes: Voters wishing to change from one party to another will be automatically subject to the 15- day wait period, and must remain in the party three months. (There is no wait period for unenrolled voters to enter into a party)

Maine’s new semi-open primaries effective January 1, 2024: http://www.mainelegislature.org/legis/statutes/21-A/title21-Asec341.html.

A registered voter not enrolled in a political party may participate, subject to the restrictions of section 145, subsection 3, in a party’s primary election without enrolling in that political party. An unenrolled voter may vote in only one party’s primary election.

http://www.mainelegislature.org/legis/statutes/21-A/title21-Asec145.html.