EVENTS: Val­entine Vaude­ville — Back by popular demand

Front row, from left to right, Katie Howes, Tammy Werber, and Vanessa Glazier. Back, Becca Bradstreet, Shana Page, Josh Fournier, and Helena Page. (photo courtesy of Shana Page)

Enter the world of a supper club: a great variety show and drinks and dinner complete with hat check and candy cigarette girls – Val­entine Vaude­ville. Back by popular demand this un­ique way to spend a Feb­ruary evening is being hosted by Re­cycled Shakespeare Company (RSC) as this season’s grand fundraiser.

The public is invited to join the fun on Saturday, February 18, at T & B Celebration Center, in Skowhegan, starting at 6:30 p.m., for a two-hour show of live music, dance, and comedy; accompanied by a full buffet dinner with a cash bar. The cost is $40 per person or save five percent if you book a table of six. Reser­vations are required and must be made by February 11. To re­serve please contact Cathe Ayers at 207-612-6688. Payments may be made by cash, check or Venmo @Catherine-Ayers-7.

Your attendance helps support RSC, a nonprofit grassroots community theater company based in Fairfield, now in their tenth season of offering Shakespeare and period works free of charge and accessible to all. For more information on this and other events find and like Recycled Shakespeare Company on Facebook or contact Lyn Rowden at 207-314-4730.

Real estate group recognizes local state lawmaker

Sen. Matt Pouliot, R-Kennebec (center), with MEREDA President Craig Young (left) and Executive Director Shelly Clark. (photo courtesy of MEREDA/Brian Peterson)

The Maine Real Estate & Development Association (MEREDA) honored Maine State Senator Matt Pouliot, R-Kennebec, during its 2023 Forecast Conference and Member Showcase. The organization’s annual event was held at the Cross Insurance Arena in Portland.

In recognition of his leadership in housing creation policy and for his support of MEREDA’s efforts to advance responsible, practical and predictable policies for real estate development, Pouliot was awarded the 2022 MEREDA Public Policy Award.

“Senator Pouliot has been a steadfast supporter of MEREDA policy priorities, including his help in maintaining the Maine Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credit; his support for the establishment of a Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy (CPACE); his vote for the 2022 Housing Act; and his sponsorship of two MEREDA priority legislation items for the 131st Legislature,” MEREDA Executive Director Shelly Clark said in a video introducing the award at the event. “Additionally, Senator Pouliot has recently risen as a leader in bipartisan discussions about smart public policy to help curb Maine’s housing crisis.”

Citing his involvement with the Legislature’s recent Commission to Increase Housing Opportunities in Maine by Studying Land Use Regulations and Short-term Rentals, MEREDA said Pouliot was instrumental in establishing the new Joint Select Committee on Housing of which the final report of the Commission will be the starting point for the work of the new committee.

MEREDA also recognized Pouliot’s development efforts in Kennebec County, including the revival of the historic Water Street corridor in Augusta through redevelopment of downtown properties.

“His support for responsible real estate development, approach to policymaking, and service as a leader both in the Legislature and in his hometown of Augusta make Senator Pouliot a clear choice for this year’s 2022 Public Policy Award,” Clark said.

Senator Matt Pouliot is in his third term representing the communities of the newly-reapportioned District #15. He is the Senate Republican Lead for Joint Standing Committee on Labor and Housing and the new Joint Select Committee on Housing.

PHOTO: Windsor Fair president receives award

Tom, left, is pictured with his wife Karen. Contributed photo

Windsor Fair shares that their esteemed president, Tom Foster, has been presented the Catherine L. Damren Distinguished Service Award by the Maine Association of Agricultural Fairs this past weekend at their annual conference. It means so much to see this award go to someone so deserving. Tom, a farmer himself, has been an asset to the agricultural and fair communities of Maine most of his adult life.

PHOTO: New chamber board members

The Mid-Maine Chamber of Commerce new board members. From left to right, Jordan Rowan, Kristian Suttie, Gary Poulin, Molly Woodward and Jamie Plourde. (contributed photo)

Sarah Sachs named president of KFS Mortgage Company LLC

Sarah Sachs

KFS Mortgage Company LLC, the Waterville-based lending corporation that is a wholly owned subsidiary of Kennebec Savings Bank, has named Sarah Sachs as its new president. Ms. Sachs brings extensive experience in residential mortgage, retail banking and small business lending to her new role.

Prior to joining KFS Mortgage Company LLC, Ms. Sachs served in key roles at other banks as a vice president and mortgage lending manager. Under her leadership, her teams have won local and national awards in residential lending and retail banking.

“I’m very excited to take on this new role,” Ms. Sachs said. “My mission is to expand our product offerings here at KFS Mortgage Company, hire mortgage officers, and open additional mortgage offices in other parts of the state.”

She noted that KFS Mortgage Company LLC offers government mortgage products through Freddie Mac, Maine Housing, Rural Development, and the VA that will enhance what Kennebec Savings Bank already offers.

An active member of the Central Maine community, Ms. Sachs currently serves as commissioner and treasurer of the Augusta Housing Authority; a member of the Board of Directors of the Augusta Teen Center, and president of the Board of Directors of Howell House. She is a member of the Maine Association of Mortgage Professionals and an affiliate member of the Kennebec Valley Board of Realtors and Greater Portland Board of Realtors. Ms. Sachs lives in Augusta with her husband, Alden. They have two grown children.

SMALL SPACE GARDENING: Garden longer with less muscle strain and fatigue

photo by Emily Cates

by Melinda Myers

Keep gardening longer with less muscle strain and fatigue with these pain-free gardening techniques. You’ll not only keep your garden looking its best but also make it a more enjoyable experience.

Keep tools handy to reduce the number of trips from the garden back to your garage or shed. A garden tool bag or bucket with a wrap-around tool organizer works well for small hand tools. Purchase a mobile garden tool caddy or convert a discarded wheeled golf bag, shopping cart, or wheeled trash bin into a tool caddy for long-handled tools. These make it easier to keep them handy as you move from garden to garden.

Store small tools right in the garden. Install an old mailbox in your garden filled with your favorite small hand tools and gloves. Then add a little paint or cover it with a mailbox planter or vine to make it an attractive and functional part of your landscape.

Keep tools clean and sharp. Regular maintenance will extend their life and improve their efficiency. It can also help reduce the risk of spreading disease.

Invest in ergonomic tools when replacement or new tools are needed. They have larger and softer handles for easier, less stressful gripping. Many are designed for the proper positioning of your body to reduce joint stress and fatigue. Longer handles extend your reach and help you retain good posture. Consider purchasing ratchet-type pruners designed to give you more cutting power with less effort.

Use wagons, carts, or old snow saucer-type sleds for moving heavy items to the garden. You’ll need to make fewer trips, reduce muscle strain, and save energy when moving mulch, potted plants, and other items.

Divide heavy loads into smaller increments. You may need to make more trips, but it will be easier on your back and knees.

When shoveling, be sure to stand upright and take small scoops. Remember to pivot your body rather than twisting when emptying the load. Switch sides and take frequent breaks to reduce the risk of muscle strain, and fatigue.

Protect your knees with kneelers or wrap-around kneepads. No matter your age or physical ability you will benefit now and in the future by protecting your joints when gardening. These gardening accessories also reduce the pain and pressure on your joints. Kneelers with built-in handles make moving up and down easier, allowing you to garden longer.

Include a pair of safety glasses in your tool caddy. It is too easy to end up with a stick in the eye when pruning and working around trees and shrubs.

Take time to warm up before digging in. Gentle backbends and lunges are great ways to engage your muscles. Adjust your gardening activities to the weather. If it’s cold, try waiting for the weather to warm. If you are stiff in the morning, try gardening a bit later in the day.

Garden for shorter periods and try to take breaks every 15 to 20 minutes. Consider adding a few benches to the landscape to encourage you to sit, relax and enjoy your handiwork.

Wear gloves to protect your hands from cuts and bruises. Gloves also keep your hands warm and provide support as you dig, pluck and prune. Find a good-looking comfortable pair that you are likely to wear.

Protect your eyes and skin from sun damage. Wear a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. You’ll avoid sunburns and protect your skin from long-term damage. Keep yourself hydrated by drinking plenty of water as you garden.

Including these strategies in your gardening efforts can make gardening even more beneficial and enjoyable.

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 and her website is www.MelindaMyers.com.

SCORES & OUTDOORS: It’s time for our annual visit with Woodrow Charles

Roland D. Halleeby Roland D. Hallee

Well, we’ve turned the calendar and it is now February. Time for me to go visit my furry, rodent friend, Woodrow Charles, the weather prognosticating groundhog. Folklore has it that if he sees his shadow, we are in for six more weeks of winter. If he does not see it, we can expect an early spring.

With the mild winter we had seen so far, it looked like the trek to his abode would be an easy one. However, with the snow, rain and ice we have received over the past couple of weeks, that hike could be a difficult one. It was!

After an hour and a half of trudging through the snow and ice, I finally came to the residence he occupied last year, only to find large “marshmallows,” massive hay bails wrapped in white plastic. Now, where did he go?

I took out my cell phone and dialed his number:

“Hello,” came the response from the other end.

“Woody?” I asked.

“Yeah, who wants to know?” was his reply.

“This is your friend from The Town Line,” I said.

“Oh, yeah,” he responded.

“Where the heck are you?”

“If you’re at my old place, just keep going straight through the field and down the path. I’m about 100 yards down on the right.”

“I’ll be right there.”

Down the path I went and found a small tree stump with a green door. I knocked.

“Come on in,” was the answer from the other side.

“Boy, this place is a dump,” I exclaimed.

“Hey, do you know how hard it is to find good, affordable housing these days?” he snapped. “At least I was able to install a heat pump. No place for a wood burning stove.”

He whipped up some tea, and we began to chat.

“Any plans for the Super Bowl?, I inquired.

“No, it’s between Philadelphia and Kansas City, two teams I have no interest in,” he said unapologetic. “As a matter of fact, two teams I have no love for.”

“What about Frank, Butch and Slim, your buddies?”

“Oh, they wimped out and went to Florida for the winter, but they’re in the process of finding a new place down there. Got flooded out from Hurricane Ian.”

“So,” I said, “no prediction on the game this year?”

“Well,” he replied, “you know me. I’ve got to put some money down on someone.”

Following a long pause, and look of concentration on his face, he finally said, “Philadelphia by two over Kansas City.”

“That’s a bold prediction,” I answered.

“Well, like I said, I don’t really care who wins!”

So, I tried to change the subject.

“Do you think you’ll be here for a while, or try to find a more suitable place so you can put back your big screen, smart TV, Alexa, your Keurig, and heated recliner?”

“I’m still looking,” he sighed. “But, it probably won’t be until the weather breaks. I’ll make do with this until then.”

“Speaking of the weather, what do you have for our readers this year?”

“Well, I still can’t use my electronic equipment. No internet, don’t you know. But I have done some calculations on my cell phone and this is what I have–”

I interrupted, “Not going out to see whether your shadow is here or not?”

“That’s old fashioned,” he said with a grit in his voice. “That’s for that fraud, wanna be, in Pennsylvania.”

“OK, I’m sorry.”

He rubbed his chin, and proclaimed, “The winter started out mild and it will end mild. Look for an early spring!”

“That was an even bolder prediction than the Super Bowl,” was my response.

“You can take it to the bank!” he shot back.

So, I bid my farewell for this year, exited the door, and on my way home wondered, “With those two predictions, was he actually starting to lose his mind?”

Roland’s trivia question of the week:

Who has won more Super Bowls, Philadelphia or Kansas City?

Answer can be found here.

Roland’s Trivia Question for Thursday, February 2, 2023

Trivia QuestionsWho has won more Super Bowls, Philadelphia or Kansas City?

Answer:

Kanas City (2 – 1969 and 2019), Philadelphia (1 – 2017).

OBITUARIES for Thursday, February 2, 2023

KIMBERLY L. YOUNG

CLINTON – Kimberly L. Young, 49, passed away Saturday, January 7, 2023, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Augusta. Kimberly was born in Waterville July 17, 1973, to Earl. L. Young and Linda Stewart Young.

She attended elementary school in Pennsylvania and graduated from Lawrence High School.

Kim became disabled in 2017 as a result of complications from spinal surgery. Since becoming disabled, Kim has faced many medical issues. She was a very strong person, always tried to stay positive, and did her best.

Prior to becoming disabled, Kim worked at Inland Hospital, in Waterville, for several years and later worked providing care to people with disabilities both in residential and in the home setting. Kim loved taking care of people. She especially loved being a mother to her children, Cody and Emily. She always put her children and others first.

Kim had a great sense of humor and still enjoyed dressing up on Halloween to treat her great-nephews, Connor and Owen. She loved animals. She cherished the holidays and any time she could spend with family.

Kimberly is survived by her children, Cody and Emily Mckenna; her sisters, Kathy Ware and her partner Carl Clarke, Sue Dow and her husband Dan; and two brothers, Randall and Ronald Young; a niece, Chelsea Davis and her husband Austin, and their two children Connor and Owen.

A Celebration of Life and graveside service will be held in the spring at the convenience of the family.

Arrangements under the direction and care of Dan & Scott’s Cremation & Funeral Service, 445 Waterville Rd., Skowhegan ME 04976.

In lieu of flowers, friends wishing may make donations in Kimberly’s memory to the Paralysis Recovery Foundation, 354 North Desplaines St. #3810, Chicago, IL 60661.

VERNAL A. HOOD JR.

BENTON – Vernal A. Hood Jr., 90, passed away on Sunday, January 8, 2023. He was born on December 6, 1932, one of five children to Vernal and Gladys (Hall) Hood Sr.

“Jack”, as he was known to many, worked at Hollingsworth and Whitney Papere Mill, in Winslow, which became Scott Paper Co. and is now known as SAPPI Fine Papers, in Hinckley, until retiring in July 1991.

Jack loved the outdoors. He was an avid fisherman and hunter. He was a member of the Skowhegan Sportsman Club and a lifetime member of the Waterville Elks #905, where this year marked his 50th year membership. Jack cut down his last tree at 88 years old. He will be remembered for his humor, stubbornness, strength, willingness to listen and his love of family.

He is survived by his wife Anne; a daughter, Sherry Lee and her husband George Fernald Jr.; daughter-in-law, Jean Hood; three stepdaughters, Tammy, Denise and Stephanie; one brother, Ron and his family and sister, Sandra and her family; six grandchildren, Troy, Crystal, Vickie, George, Alex and Adam; as well as several great-grandchildren, including one on the way.

Vernal is predeceased by both parents; his first wife, Sylvia; his son, Christopher; and his two sisters, Janice and Beverly.

Celebration of life will be held in the spring.

SHARON LEE

SEBRING, Fla. – Sharon Lee, 71, of Sebring, Florida, passed away comfortably at home on Friday, January 13, 2023, following a battle with brain cancer. Sharon was born on October 18, 1951, in Waterville to the late Harvey and Ophelia Hunter.

She grew up in Clinton but considered many places home in the towns of Presque Isle and Waterville. After Sharon graduated Lawrence High School, in Fairfield, in 1970, she went on to study English at the University of Maine Presque Isle, graduating with a bachelor’s degree in 1974.

Sharon and her family moved to Waterville where she continued her career as an English teacher at Waterville Senior High School and later as an employee with KVCAP.

Sharon retired with her husband Bill in 2019, and promptly became snowbirds in the close-nit community of Tanglewood, in Sebring, Florida.

Sharon is survived by her husband, William Lee Jr.; her children Jamie Lee and Ryan Lee; her daughter-in-law, Hilary Lee; her grandchildren Hunter Lee and Mason Lee; her brothers Leroy Hunter, Larry Hunter, Dwayne Hunter, Mark Hunter; her sister, Cathy Hodsdon; and numerous cousins; nieces, and nephews.

A celebration will be planned in the spring.

GEORGE A. COLE

WINSLOW – George A. Cole, 90, of Winslow, passed away on Saturday, January 14, 2023, at Woodlands Assisted Living, of Waterville. George was born March 31, 1932, the son of the late Harry B. and Grace C. (Robertson) Cole.

He grew up in Oakland and attended Oakland schools. He joined the Maine National Guard and was honorably discharged in July 1955.

He worked as a truck driver for Keyes Fibre Company, now known as Huhtamaki, of Waterville, for over 30 years. Because he loved driving so much, after retiring he and his wife Carmen purchased a motor home and traveled to many states with the Maine-A-Bagos motor home club and was president from 1989 to 1990, meeting many friends along the way.

They wintered in Zephyr Hills, Florida, for many years until Carmen’s health failed and they could no longer travel. George was Carmen’s primary caregiver until her death in 2009. He catered to her every need no matter how big or small. He was a wonderful husband, father, father-in-law, grandfather, great-grandfather and great-great-grandfather and a dear friend to many. The grandchildren have so many fond memories of their Grandpa from rides on his John Deere tractor to greeting them when getting off the school bus at his home. They always had their special treats of Kit Kats and Pepsi to chicken noodle soup and grilled cheese sandwiches. That was just the kind of man he was. Always ready and willing to take care of his family as they meant everything to him.

George is survived by his daughters Hollee Rossignol and her husband Everett, of Oakland, and Cheryl Michaud, of Florence, Arizona; grandchildren Karen Curtis and husband Keith, Mike Rossignol and wife Lisa, Monique Rossignol Gladziszewski and husband Peter, Randy Michaud, Jennifer Michaud and partner Travis, Garry Libby Jr. and wife Bonnie, Cynthia Fillion and husband Jacques; great-grandchildren, Alyssa Rainey (Thomas), Anna Curtis (Tom), Christopher Michaud, Amanda Tower (Danielle) and Heather Libby; great-great-grandchildren, Thomas, Alaina, Amelia, Wyatt and John Rainey.

He was predeceased by is wife of 56 years, Carmen Cole; son, Garry Libby and wife Kathleen, son-in-law, James Michaud; granddaughter, Michelle Michaud; one brother, Harry Cole, sisters Maxine McMannus, Camilla York and Glennis Hall; and many nieces and nephews.

Arrangements are entrusted to Advantage Funeral Home and Cremation, Portland.

There will be prayers at Pine Grove Cemetery and celebration of life in the Summer of 2023. An announcement will be made at that time.

WILLIAM J. MURPHY

WINSLOW – Bill Murphy, 69, of Winslow, passed away suddenly on Monday, January 16, 2023, following a brief illness. He was born in Newark, New Jersey.

Bill enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1972, served in Germany, and was honorably discharged in 1975.

Bill met his wife, Donna, and moved to Vermont in 1981 where they lived and worked for many years, raising their sons Jared and Ben, and Donna’s daughter and Bill’s stepdaughter, Rebecca Villa. They moved to Maine in 2000.

Bill was an avid fisherman, a talented programmer analyst and a thoughtful, generous and quick-witted man. Always ready with a quip and a smile, he loved woodworking and terrible action movies, hated peas (the man would pick them individually out of his fried rice), and adored his family.

He was predeceased by his parents Phyllis and Pat Murphy; his brother, Jimmy Murphy and his sisters Barbara Murphy and Kathy Osborne.

He leaves behind his sons, Jared Murphy and wife Erica Mitchell, and Ben Murphy and wife Dani Folsom; his grandchildren Simon Curtis and Alice Murphy; his stepdaughter, Rebecca Villa; his brother, Brian Murphy; his sister, Phyllis Carchia; and his ex-wife, Donna Murphy; as well as a monstrous collection of DVDs

His family is planning a celebration of life for the spring as he always wanted to be celebrated and not mourned in death.

SUE ANN BELANGER

WATERVILLE – Sue Ann Belanger, 69, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 17, 2023, at Gosnell Hospice House, in Scarborough. Sue was born on May 3, 1953, in Bangor, to Eugene and Rita Sherburne.

She attended school in Bangor, and graduated from Waterville High School. On September 30, 1972, she married Lee Belanger, of Waterville. Together, they raised two children, Erica and Peter. Sue’s greatest love was her family.

Sue is survived by her husband of 50 years, Lee Belanger, of Waterville; daughter, Erica St. Peter and her husband, Joey St. Peter, of Waterville; son, Peter Belanger and his wife, Tracy Belanger, of Brunswick; her grandchildren Sydney Breault, Cole St. Peter, Brody Belanger and Blake Belanger; her great-granddaughters Everlee and Georgie Breault; sisters Lisa Dempsey, Stephanie Brewer and Jackie Madore.

She was predeceased by her sister, Teresa Knotts, and brother, Eugene Sherburne.

A burial and Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date.

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, the family requests that donations be made to the Gosnell Memorial Hospice House, 11 Hunnewell Rd., Scarborough, ME 04074.

LAURIE J. JOHNSON

NORRIDGEWOCK – Laurie Jeanne Johnson, 59, of Norridgewock, passed away on Wednesday, January 18, 2023, following a courageous year-long battle with stage 4 cancer. Laurie was born on April 12, 1963, in Waterville, to Maxine (Williams) Johnson and Larry Johnson.

Laurie grew up in Oakland and graduated from Messalonskee High School in 1981. Laurie completed CNA and EMT courses at Kennebec Valley Technical Institute (now Kennebec Valley Community College), in Fair­field. Laurie will be well remembered for being an EMT firefighter with the Oakland Fire Department.

Laurie was a gourmet cook and enjoyed preparing meals that were her own style.

Laurie is survived by her parents, Larry and Maxine Johnson, of Norridgewock; brothers Dale Johnson, of Norridgewock, and Craig Johnson, of Winslow; niece Kelli Johnson; great-nephew Elijah Baker; great-niece Neveah McKeil, also of Winslow; aunts Linda Alderson, of Waterville, Stella Swett, of Oakland; aunt and uncle Joanne and Richard Arnold, of Florida; many cousins. Laurie leaves behind Brian Luce of Oakland.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Laurie’s memory may be made to the American Cancer Society or Humane Society Waterville Area.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Norridgewock Baptist on a later date. A graveside service will be held at Maplewood Cemetery, in Fairfield, this coming spring.

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 www.lawrybrothers.com.

GARY R. BALLARD

WATERVILLE – Gary Russell Ballard, 69, died on Friday, January 20, 2023, in Waterville, following a 10-month battle with pancreatic cancer. Gary was born on May 6, 1953, in Elizabeth, New Jersey, the son of late Harry Franklin Ballard Jr., and Ruth E. Ballard.

Gary was a hardworking man, installing flooring as his father had taught him to do as a teenager. Gary owned and operated Ballard’s Carpet Service, of Skowhegan, for many years and worked as a subcontractor out of Waterville. Gary enjoyed working on his vehicles, listening to oldies, and spending time with family and friends.

He is survived by three daughters, Sarah Ballard Saravino and husband Will, of Tennessee, Missy Ballard Teacher and husband Justin, of Arizona, Amie Ballard, of Waterville, and predeceased by the twins; grandchildren Alexcia, Elizabeth, Brooke, Mason, Logan, Ethan, Dylan, David, Keslie, Kyla and Nevannie; sisters Nancy Harrison, of Richmond, Virginia, and Dawn Ballard Duesing, of Mobile, Alabama; brother, Bob Ballard, of Palmyra; nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life and graveside burial of ashes will be held in the spring.

BRETT E. HOSKINS

VASSALBORO – Brett Eugene Hoskins, 63, passed away Friday, January 20, 2023, at home. He was born April 23, 1959, to Harold Hos­kins, and Bev­erly Preble, in Waterville.

Growing up, Brett was active in the Baptist Church, Youth Group, Demoley, and sports in Waterville. After attending Waterville schools, he served in the United States Army from May 1976 to June 1982, followed by the Army Reserves until 1985. He was stationed at Fort Sill, Oklahoma; Fort Hood, Texas; Fort McClellan, Alabama; and Vaihingen, Germany. He, and Kelly, enjoyed the three years he was stationed in Germany, and they had special memories skiing in the Alps and traveling to Switzerland and Austria. He spent the last 20-plus years working for MainePERS.

On March 10, 1979 he married the love of his life, Kelly. In the years that followed their return from Germany, they started a family, and he was active in coaching his kids in basketball and tee ball, and attending all of their activities throughout the years. He rode the Trek Across Maine, and the Plymouth to Province Town trek, in Massachusetts, with his son. He enjoyed attending New England Patriot games, Boston Red Sox games, various concerts, taking special family vacations each summer, camping, and hunting (though he was quick to remind everyone that he hadn’t shot anything in a couple decades).

For almost 40 years, Brett has been an active Mason with Vassalboro Lodge #54, Oakland Lodge #113, and Augusta Valley Scottish Rites. He was also a member of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks Lodge #905, in Waterville.

Brett was predeceased by his father, Harold Hoskins, his mother, Beverly Preble; and many aunts and uncles.

Surviving is his wife of 43 years, Kelly; his daughter Katie Jose; his son Barret Hoskins (Beka); nephew and niece, Matt Vincent and Elena Vincent; grandchildren Roslyn, Bryce, Grace, Sydney and Landon; sisters Penny (David) Bard, Robin (Alan) Withee, and Michelle (Rodney) Green; as well as many other nephews and nieces.

On January 28, a service was held at the Pleasant Street United Methodist Church, in Waterville.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Humane Society Waterville Area; Maine Children’s Home for Little Wanderers (Christmas program); or the Maine Masonic Charitable Foundation.

LUCILLE M. TALBOT

WATERVILLE – Lucille M. Talbot, 88, of Waterville, passed away Friday, January 20, 2023, following a long illness. She was born to the late Elie N. and Rose (Mathieu) Viens, February 1, 1934, in Winslow.

Lucille graduated from Waterville Senior High School in 1951 and married her husband of 71 years, Gerard, one month later on July 4.

Lucille was kind and compassionate, opening her home more than once to those who needed it. She was a wise and trusted friend, always ready to lend an ear and share a cup of tea or a box of tissues. She had a funny sense of humor and an infectious laugh, but she was also feisty and stubborn when she felt she needed to be. Lucille was always generous with her love and hugs.

While raising her family, Lucille worked as a bookkeeper for several local businesses until her retirement in 2001 from Four Seasons Janitorial.

In her spare time, she enjoyed antique hunting and watching the Montreal Canadiens. Later in life, Lucille became an avid genealogical researcher. She left behind many detailed and organized volumes of meticulously researched and documented family genealogical records.

Lucille is survived by her husband, Gerard J. Talbot; and their three children, Donald and his spouse, Edward Bell, of Lisbon Falls, Angela and her husband, Jerry Bickford, of Sidney, Brenda and her husband, Mark Gosline, of Waterville; a grandchild, Hannah Gosline; one brother, John Viens, of Vassalboro; brother-in-law, Roland Talbot and sisters-in-law Jane (Talbot) Paquet and Suzanne Talbot; along with several nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her brothers Joseph and Wilfrid Viens, two brothers-in-law, Brother Roger Paul Talbot and Roger Talbot and a sister-in-law, Orita Couture.

Friends and family are invited to attend visiting hours that will be held from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday, February 3, at Gallant Funeral Home, 10 Elm St., Waterville. A Celebration of Life will be held at 11 a.m., on Saturday, Feb. 4 at Notre Dame Catholic Church, 116 Silver St., Waterville. Graveside services will be held in the spring at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, in Waterville.

Arrangements are under the direction and care of Gallant Funeral Home. An online guestbook may be signed, condolences and memories shared at http://www.gallantfh.com.

LOU ANN TUCCI

WATERVILLE – Lou Ann Tucci, 85, passed away on Monday, January 23, 2023. Lou Ann was born on January 14, 1938, in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, to the late Mary Cathryn Hoke and Leo Paul Zentz.

She attended the University of Maine and Frederick Community College to study art.

Lou Ann moved to Maine in 2007 after the passing of her late husband. In 2020 she married Anthony Tucci and together they started their new lives together.

Lou Ann spent much of her life connecting with her spirituality which also helped her with her sobriety for 53 years. Lou Ann was a mother figure in many of the AA groups she participated in. She was there to support and sponsor many on their respective road to recovery as well. With her many years of AA she was honored to be a guest speaker at various group meetings. In many of her speeches Lou Ann spoke of spirituality, and those who helped her on her sobriety journey with their wise words, their kindness and support over the years. When she wasn’t helping others, she was out gardening her African violets and being a loving grandmother and great-grandmother.

Lou Ann was predeceased by her parents; her daughter, Jeanne; and her first husband.

She is survived by her widower, Anthony; her sons David, Charles, and Michael; grandchildren; and great-grandchildren; and her three sisters.

A Funeral Mass was held on Thursday, February 2, at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 60 Eustis Parkway, Waterville, ME 04901. Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at http://www.VeilleuxFuneralHome.com for the Tucci family.

In lieu of flowers, in memory of Lou Ann, donations can be made to AA of Maine, 47 Portland St. Portland, ME 04101.

MADELINE B. DOWE

CHINA – Madeline B. Dowe, 83, passed away peacefully at her home on Sun­day, January 22, 2023.

Madeline was the fifth of 14 children. She worked many jobs throughout her life. Finally settling down, She and Robert built, owned and operated Dowe’s Variety Store, in South China, for 20 years.

She was predeceased by her husband of 63 years, Robert C. Dowe; and grandsons Justin Hatch and Dennis Dowe; her parents and several siblings.

She is survived by son, Robert C. Dowe II, and wife Jennifer; daughters, Julie Finley and husband John, Kelley Warren; sons, Glenn Dowe, and Donald Dowe and wife Melissa; 12 grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren; several sisters and brothers; nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held in the spring. After the service a gathering of family and friends will be held on the back lawn of the Dowe family home where everyone can celebrate the life of this most special woman!

Arrangements are under the care of Kincer Funeral Home, 130 Pleasant St., Richmond, ME 04357.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be sent to: The South China Volunteer Fire Department, P.O. Box 325, China, ME 04358, or The American Legion Post #179, in China, 79 Legion Memorial Dr., South China, ME 04358.

MARIE A. CARR

WATERVILLE – Marie A. Carr, 96, passed peacefully on Tuesday, January 24, 2023, at the Alfond Center for Health, following a brief illness. She was born in Dexter on July 1, 1926, to the late Albert and Avis (Nelson) Ronco.

Marie was a graduate of N. H. Fay High School, now Dexter High School, and was a communicant of St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church. She was a former member of the Daughters of Isabella, in Dexter.

Marie enjoyed her travels to Florida, New York, and Cape Cod, Massa­chusetts, and loved spending time with her family. She had been employed by D. W. Adams and Service Merchandise.

She was predeceased by her husband, Merle E. Carr; daughter, Lana Wintle, sons-in-law Calvin Wintle and Thomas Foye; stepmother, Gertrude (Firth) Ronco; sister, Beverly Batey and half-brother, Richard Ronco.

Marie is survived by her son, Peter Carr (Jane), of Manchester; three daughters, Shawna Foye, of Sidney, Judy Bryant (Wayne), of The Villages, Florida, and Jane Haskins, of Westport, New York; 15 grandchildren; many great-grandchildren; and several great-great-grandchildren; nieces, nephews; and cousins.

A funeral service was held on Wednesday, February 1, 2023, at Plummer Funeral Home, 16 Pleasant St., Augusta. Burial and committal prayer was held in the new Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Mt. Vernon Road, Augusta, after the service.

Condolences, stories and photos may be shared at http://www.plummerfh.com.

ANTHONY F. MARPLE

WHITEFIELD – Anthony “Tony” Field Marple, 75, passed away peacefully at home on Tues­day, January 24, 2023, following a short struggle with ALS. Tony was born in Nor­walk, Con­necticut, on August 18, 1947, to the late William and Jean (Sutherland) Marple.

He was the husband of Marianne (Burton) Marple, with whom he shared 49 years.

After high school in Wilton, Connecticut, and the Berkshire School, in Massachusetts, he attended Bucknell College and the University of Richmond, where he received his bachelor’s degree in psychology and mathematics. He later received an MBA in finance from the University of Connecticut and a graduate certificate in health care finance from the University of South Carolina.

Tony moved to Whitefield in 1984 to take a position as vice president of finance for the Kennebec Valley Medical Center (KVMC), in Augusta. He was proud of his role in keeping the hospital system profitable every year, making it possible to avoid employee layoffs. After the merger of KVMC with Mid-Maine Health System, Tony became executive vice president and treasurer of MaineGeneral Health. He retired in 2006 and in the same year was appointed director of MaineCare, where he worked to introduce a patient-focused managed care approach to Medicaid. Finally, he served as the CFO of Mercy Hospital, in Portland.

Tony loved nature, hiking, running, and farming. He and his son, Keith, hiked all 48 4,000-foot peaks in New Hampshire, and he made hiking trips throughout Maine and in Mexico, Canada, and the Rocky Mountains. He worked to establish a system of hiking trails in Whitefield.

Tony and Marianne’s farm grew to include a 30-acre wild blueberry field, apple trees, a vegetable garden, and woods, all managed by Tony using conservation practices. He practiced what he preached, outfitting his house with solar panels, driving electric cars, and using electric tools as much as possible in order to reduce his own carbon footprint. In 2019 the Marple farm was named Conservation Farm of the Year for Tony’s efforts to preserve the habitat of wild bees and other pollinators.

Tony was an excellent photographer of people and nature. He participated in a number of photography shows and won prizes at the Kodak International Newspaper Snapshot Awards, the AMC photo contest, and the Maine Photography Show.

For many years Tony served the Town of Whitefield in various ways – as a Selectman and on the School Board and the Planning Board. In these roles he helped to install solar panels on the fire station, create road signs to keep Amish horse and buggies safe on Whitefield roads, establish the Whitefield Trails Committee, and started the first town newspaper. He also served on the boards of various environmental or health-related groups in Maine, such as the National Resources Council of Maine, Lincoln Health, OnPoint Health Data, and the Maine Health Access Foundation.

Tony worked to protect the Maine wilderness he loved by supporting conservation and efforts to slow down climate change. He served as treasurer of the Mid-Coast Conservancy and lobbied for connecting the Hydro-Québec hydroelectric dam with Maine, which he argued would reduce the state’s dependence on fossil fuels.

Tony was beloved by friends and family as someone who was hardworking and driven but also generous, down-to-earth, and self-deprecating.

He leaves behind his wife, Marianne; his son, Keith Marple, of Princeton, Massachusetts, and Keith’s daughters Beatrice, Anna, and Kate; his son and daughter-in-law, Brian and Pei Yi Marple, of Cuddebackville, New York; his four siblings, Anne James and her husband Rob, Allen Marple, all of Richmond, Virginia, Harriet Plehn, of Worthington, Massachusetts, and Sara Templeman and her husband Bob, of Charlottesville, Virginia; and many nieces and nephews.

Burial services for Tony will be private. A memorial service is to be held at a later date.

Condolences and memories may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the Knowlton and Hewins Funeral Home (www.khrfuneralhomes.com).

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the Mid-Coast Conservancy (https://www.midcoastconservancy.org/) or the Environmental Defense Fund (edf.org).

PHILIPPE F. HEBERT

WATERVILLE – Philippe F. Hebert, 85, died on Tuesday, January 24, 2023. He was born on November 15, 1937, in Waterville, the son of Alphie and Isabelle (Dufour) Hebert.

Philippe graduated from Waterville High School in 1957 and from Thomas College, in Waterville, in 1959, with a degree in accounting.

He worked for Noyes Stove Company, in Waterville, for 13 years and then moved on to work for Bragg’s Auto, in Winslow, from 1973 until he retired in 1995.

On June 27, 1986, Philippe married the love of his life, Patty. After nine years, they moved to Florida and lived there for 23 years. Patty and Philippe shared a wonderful life together for 33 years. She died on October 27, 2017. Following Patty’s death, Philippe returned to Waterville and lived with his sister, Mary Jane Poulin and her husband, Charlie.

He was involved in civic organizations including the Lions Club and Rotary Club. In 1985 and 1986, Philippe was elected Governor of the Lions Club International. He also belonged to the Knights of Columbus, in Waterville, and in Florida, where he served as Grand Knight for two years.

Philippe was an avid bowler. He was a league member and traveled to many tournaments throughout New England. Philippe was also a softball umpire here in Waterville. He coached Little League baseball for the Waterville Boys Club.

He was predeceased by his parents Alphie and Isabelle Hebert; his sisters Eva Poirier, Jeanette Breau, and Lucille Bates, and brothers Edgar and Albert.

Philippe is survived by his sisters Marie Pelotte, and Mary Jane Poulin, both of Waterville; his brother, Robert Hebert, of Los Angeles, California; as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A graveside service will be held in the spring at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery.

Arrangements are under the direction and care of Gallant Funeral Home, 10 Elm St., Waterville. An online guestbook may be signed, and condolences and memories shared at http://www.gallantfh.com.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Guiding Eyes for the Blind, P.O. Box 97007, Washington D.C. 20090-7007.

BARRY C.B. BLACKINTON

SOUTH CHINA – Barry C.B Blackinton, 61, passed away on Wednesday January 25, 2023, at home. He was born in Cranston, Rhode Island, on August 28, 1961, the son of the late Walter and Edna Blackinton.

He is the husband of Jodi (Ellis) Blackinton with whom he shared 36 years of marriage.

He was a graduate of Pilgrim High School, class of 1979. Barry resided in South China for the past seven years and previously in Rhode Island.

He was a US Navy veteran, held the rank of ASM3 and served on the USS Nimitz.

Barry was a small engine mechanic and worked at Bryan’s Lawn Mower Service for many years until having to retire due to ill health.

Barry took great pride in taking care of his wife Jodi. Blessed to have a beautiful grand baby. He also enjoyed being a homebody and puttering around his home. He loved yard work, snow blowing and listening to music. He was an avid New England sports fan especially the New England Patriots. He was a former member of the American Legion Post #43, in Rhode Island.

Barry is survived by his wife, Jodi; son Barry C.B. Blackinton II and his wife Kexuan, of North Carolina; his granddaughter Bethany Blackinton; a niece, and a nephew.

In addition to his mother and father, Barry was predeceased by his siblings Bruce Blackinton, Beth Lourenco and Bonnie O’Keefe.

A graveside service with military honors will be in Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 163 Mount Vernon Road, Augusta, in May 2023, day to be announced.

Arrangements are in the care of Knowlton and Hewins Funeral home, 1 Church St., Augusta, where condolences and memories may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the funeral home website by visiting www.khrfuneralhomes.com.

China transfer committee approves two documents for select board consideration

by Mary Grow

At their Jan. 24 meeting, members of China’s Transfer Station Committee unanimously approved two documents for forwarding to the select board.

One is a revised Solid Waste Ordinance, prepared with help from Jessica Cobb, of the Kennebec Valley Council of Governments. It combines two existing ordinances, titled Solid Waste Disposal Ordinance and Solid Waste Flow Control (on the website china.govoffice.com, under Ordinances, Policies and Orders).

If select board members approve, they will forward the combined ordinance to voters for approval or rejection at the annual town business meeting in June.

The other document is named the transfer station’s five-year plan, though the objectives it lists are scheduled to be accomplished more quickly.

Requested equipment purchases include, for the current year, a propane storage rack that transfer station employees intend to put up themselves in the recycling building; a new Gator utility vehicle as a more versatile replacement for the station’s golf cart (estimated cost $10,699); a cover for the pre-crusher, for which station manager Thomas Maraggio is waiting for additional price quotes; and a closed container for mattresses, at an estimated cost of $16,000.

In the 2023-24 fiscal year that begins July 1, the plan calls for replacing the skid steer, trading in the current one in part payment. A new main hopper is planned for the 2024-25 fiscal year.

Facility upgrades, in the order listed, are:

  • A water filter system to provide potable water; the water available is safe, but because of the adjacent closed landfill, it is reportedly not pleasant. A system is to be installed soon; the plan says if it does not work, other options will be explored.
  • A cement pad, perhaps eligible for a state grant, for the compost pile.
  • Upgrading and paving the perimeter road behind the recycling building, a project waiting for price quotes.
  • Adding electricity and lighting at the Free for the Taking building. Committee members discussed options for the proposed installation of solar panels.
  • Removing the damaged canopy at the recycling center, a project for transfer station employees this spring.
  • Improving drainage outside the door of the cardboard bay.

Requested expenditures depend on the select board’s recommending them as part of the annual budget; preferably, a favorable recommendation from the budget committee; and voter approval at the annual town business meeting in June.

Transfer station staffer Cheyenne Houle had prepared a draft schedule for 2023 that calls for a hazardous waste collection day in China (for residents of China and other area towns that choose to contribute funds so their residents can participate) either April 8 or April 15. China’s annual shredding day (for confidential documents) is to be Oct. 21; the state-wide drug take back day, in which the China transfer station participates, will be Oct. 28.

Karen Hatch, in charge of the Free for the Taking building, issued a reminder that items left there should be in such good condition that someone else will happily take them home. Shoes are particularly a problem, she said; for every usable pair dropped off, she gets 10 that aren’t fit to wear.

The longest discussion at the Jan. 24 meeting was over whether to continue, change or eliminate the two-cents-a-pound fee charged to commercial haulers. The original purpose of the fee was to pay for the scales on which their trucks – and other vehicles as needed – are weighed.

The main argument in favor of leaving the fee in place was the revenue it generates.

The main argument in favor of discontinuing it was that rising fuel prices are already stressing haulers’ budgets; if they go out of business and people who have been using them start bringing their own trash, the additional work will cost the town.

Houle had done an analysis of trash brought in by the four haulers who use China’s transfer station and estimated the annual income at a little over $7,000 a year. Without the haulers, she estimated that on average, 56 more people would come in daily when the station is open.

Another argument in favor of eliminating the fee was that the scales were paid for long ago. Deputy Clerk Julie Finley says they were installed in November 2005; a The Town Line report on the June 27, 2016, select board meeting records a 3-2 vote “to accept the Transfer Station Committee’s recommendation to leave the fee charged to local haulers who go over the scales at two cents a pound.”

Transfer station reports in China town reports for fiscal years 2006 and 2007 say the scales are in use. The reports include photos of Ruby, then-manager Elwin Higgins’ dog.

On another topic, Palermo committee member Robert Kurek said some of the blue plastic trash bags China sells to Palermo residents have been splitting at the seams. He wanted to return them to China so Town Manager Rebecca Hapgood can argue with the supplier.

Maraggio said Palermo trash will be accepted if it’s in a similar-sized bag with a useless blue bag tied to the top.

During the Tuesday morning meeting, Director of Public Services Shawn Reed was raking fresh snow from the town office roof, which Hapgood said was leaking over the hallway leading from the meeting room to the main office. The manager had high praise for Reed; “You ask him and he finds a way to get it done,” she said. Others agreed.

The next China Transfer Station Committee meeting is scheduled for 9 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 28.