OBITUARIES for Thursday, April 21, 2022

BILL STAPLES

WATERVILLE – Bill Staples, 86, passed away on March 19, 2022, following a short battle with COVID-19. Bill was born on March 3, 1936, in Staten Island, New York, and spent most of his formative years in Rockland.

Bill was a man of faith, belonging to Getchell St, Baptist Church, in Waterville, and was a veteran of the United States Army, Specialist 4.

He worked as a commercial fisherman, cook, truck driver, among other things, and retired as a longstanding employee of Shaw’s Supermarket, in Waterville. One of his favorite jobs was as a school bus driver because he always adored children; he was a big kid, himself.

Bill was known for his sense of humor and frequent corny jokes. He loved country music and John Wayne western movies, and an avid coin collector.

He was predeceased by his wife of 30 years, Jaye Libby, just four months ago and by his first wife, Evelyn Staples, many years ago; daughter, Peggy Guilford; young grandson, Timothy Shorey; his sisters Margaret and Kathleen; son-in-law, Greg Davis.

Bill is survived by his children Gail Staples, Maryann Davis, and Bill Staples Jr.; sister, Barb O’Connor; stepchildren Lynn, Lee, and Susan Warner; and many grandchildren; and great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held at Falls Cemetery, in Benton, at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Bill’s honor can be made to the Mid-Maine Homeless Shelter.

SUZANNE M. CULVER

WATERVILLE – Suzanne Marie (Russell) Culver, 87, passed away Saturdaym March 26, 2022, in Waterville. She was born February13, 1935, in Jackson, Michigan, the daughter of Eldon and Lenora (Bengal) Russell.

She married Dr. Raymond E. Culver, in Lansing, Michigan, and they were married for 27 years.

She attended high school in Jackson, Michigan, and studied classical ballet in her youth. Suzanne graduated from Simmons College, in Boston, with a bachelor’s degree in fine arts and later served as the president of the Simmons alumni association and the Simmons Club of Boston. Following a successful professional career in human resources for Mass General/Brigham Partners, in Boston, and with the Boston Ballet, Suzanne later found joy and friendship as a docent for the Colby College Museum of Art, in Waterville; a core member of Team PK, the steering committee for the popular PechaKucha Waterville; and as an active volunteer with Waterville Main Street, the Mid-Maine Chamber of Commerce, and the Waterville Opera House.

She is survived by her sons, Jonathon G. Culver and significant other Tanya Moore, of Norridgewock, and Christopher R. Culver and wife Catherine, of Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina; grandchildren, Isabel Culver, Guy Culver and Charley Culver, McLean Culver, Saxon Culver; sister Linda Getz and husband Steven, of Greenwich, Connecticut; niece Hillary (Getz) Sturman and husband Peter Sturman, of Natick, Massachusetts; and nephew Jared Getz and wife Paige Getz, of Fairfield, Connecticut.

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

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Suzanne’s name to the Waterville Public Library or the Colby College Museum of Art.

PAMELA COUTURE

WATERVILLE – Pamela Couture, 71, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, April 1, 2022, following a long, courageous battle with Alzheimer’s Disease. Pamela was born to George E. Burns and Clara (Mills) Burns on January 5, 1951, in Fairfield.

She graduated from Lawrence High School, in Fairfield, and earned a business degree from Thomas College, in Waterville. Pamela married her childhood sweetheart, Raymond Couture, on December 5, 1968. They would have celebrated their 54th wedding anniversary this year.

Pamela started her career in accounting, working at local businesses in Fairfield. She then joined Central Maine Power Company’s office, in Augusta, where she was an administrator and supervisor until her retirement in 2013.

Pamela was an amazing woman who had a free spirit and lived life with no regrets. Her beloved husband, Ray, always called her his princess. He regarded her as a beautiful princess because she used “her voice for kindness, her ears for compassion, her hands for giving, her mind for truth, and her heart for loving all her family and friends.”

Pamela loved her family and spending time with her sisters. She enjoyed playing cards and getting together for the family’s annual cribbage tournaments. She loved to travel with her husband on weekends, especially to all the coastal Maine flea markets. Antiques, good books, and unique puzzles were her favorite finds.

Pamela was predeceased by her parents George Burns and Clara Burns; her brother, Rodney Burns, her sisters Robin Burns, Linda Bartlett, and Bonnie Giroux; and her grandparents.

Pamela is survived by her husband, Raymond Couture, of Waterville; her sons Daniel Couture (Melissa) and Casey Couture (Bernadette); grandsons Coby Couture (Misty) and Seth Couture; and great-grandson, Johnny Couture; her sisters Clara Nickerson, of Benton, and Wendy St. Amand, of Skowhegan; her brother-in-law, Donald Couture (Barbara); her sisters-in-law Cathy Simpson and Cheryl Rood (Duane); and many nieces and nephews.

A private service will be held later in the spring.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Alzheimer’s Disease Research at BrightFocus.org.

JONATHAN G. TALBOT

WATERVILLE – Jonathan Gedeon Talbot, 41, passed away on Sunday, April 3, 2022, at Maine­General Medical Center, Augusta. Jonathan was the son of Cindy and Mike Talbot, of Waterville.

Jonathan was born on a cold, December day in 1980, but brought much warmth to the lives of everyone he met. If you were Jonathan’s friend, it was a friendship for life, some going back to Holy Childhood nursery school.

Jonathan was a graduate of Waterville Senior High School as well as the University of Southern Maine.

Jonathan was a 15-year team member of the T-Mobile Oakland facility. He was a successful team manager, being awarded #1 ranking in his position nationally on a number of occasions. He was loved and respected by his T-Mobile family.

Jonathan married Brooke A. McGowan on October 15, 2016. They met at T-Mobile and were an inseparable couple. They did everything together; they loved to travel, see athletic events, concerts, and be with family and friends. If it was a sunny day, you could always find Jonathan and Brooke in and around Cindy and Mike’s pool. Sadly, Brooke passed away on March 7, 2022, and Jonathan passed away with a broken heart for Brooke.

Jonathan will be remembered for his quick wit, his kindness, his sympathy for everyone, and his willingness to help his fellow T-Mobile family members improve themselves, and he will be remembered for just being himself.

Jonathan is survived by his parents Cindy and Mike Talbot; as well as his aunts, uncles; and cousins; and by his in-laws Matt and Julie McGowan; his mother-in-law, Eileen Wright; brother, Luke and wife Ann McGowan, their children Colby, Durham, and Ellie.

A Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at 9 a.m., on Saturday, May 21, at Notre Dame Catholic Church, 116 Silver St., Waterville.

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

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

Donation in Jonathan’s honor can be made to Humane Society Waterville Area, 100 Webb Rd., Waterville, ME 04901, or to a charity of your choice.

BETTY L. SNYDER

WATERVILLE – Betty L. Snyder, 80, passed away Sunday, April 3, 2022, following a short illness. She was born February 11, 1942, in West Point, New York, to John and Florence Gilbert.

She was preceeded in death by her parents, husband Kenneth Snyder, sisters Carol Maybin (New Jersey), Connie Wagner (New Jersey), daughter Carol Ann Jewett (Maine).

She is survived by her significant other, McCoy Porter, of Waterville; daughters Kimberly Sterrs (Larry), and Karen Snyder; son Kenneth Snyder Jr.; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren; nieces, and nephews.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, May 7, at 2 p.m., at Center Point Church, 155 West River Road, Waterville, ME 04901.

ELEANOR F. GODFREY

OAKLAND – Eleanor F. (Packard) Godfrey, 85, of Oakland, passed away peacefully at her home on Monday, on April 4, 2022. She was born November 22, 1936, in Lewiston, the daughter of Vernal S. and Gladys A. (Bernard) Packard.

Eleanor attended school in Litchfield.

Eleanor enjoyed cross stitching, reading, the symphony and spending time with her girls. She ran a successful seafood business with her husband for many years. She was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star, in Winthrop.

She was predeceased by her husband, Elwin Godfrey, after 59 years of marriage; her son, Mark Godfrey, of Randolph, and her son-in-law, Richard Rourke, of Readfield.

She is survived by her daughters Patty Rourke, of Readfield, Elizabeth Godfrey, of Oakland, Monica and her husband Charlie Gorman, of Oakland, and Amy and her husband Mike Bryant, of Windham; her daughter-in-law, Kathy Godfrey, of Randolph; and sisters-in-law, Joann Deming, of California, Kathy Packard, of Minnesota, and Nancy Godfrey, of Waterville; 13 grandchildren; and 15 great-grandchildren; several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Memorial services will be announced at a later date.

Arrangements are in the care of Knowlton and Hewins Funeral Home and Cremation Care, One Church St., Augusta, where memories, condolences and photos may be shared with the family on the obituary page of our website at http://www.khrfuneralhomes.com.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to the Activity Fund at The Country Village Assisted Living, P.O. Box 600, Casco, ME 04095.

MARION S. CASEY

CHINA – Marion S. Casey, 86, of China, passed away on Thursday, April 7, 2022. She was born January 6, 1936, in Vassalboro, to Millard and Oma (Segley) Studley.

After graduating from Cony High School, in Augusta, she married Neal W. Peaslee on June 16, 1956. They raised four children, were actively involved in their community and with extended family. Neal predeceased her in September of 1986.

Marion went to work at Downeys Insurance Agency with her sister-in-law, Maryellen Peaslee, who also taught her to drive. Later, she went to work at Windsor School as a substitute teacher, then as the school receptionist. Marion also worked at Hodgkins Middle School until her first husband Neal, died. She then went to work at Maine Motor Transportation where she remained until retiring.

Marion was a faithful member of the North Windsor Baptist Church. She enjoyed being in the choir, teaching Vacation Bible School and Sunday School classes for a variety of ages and belonged to the Women’s Missionary Club. She also served as a deaconess for her savior and church.

Marion met her second husband, Wilbur “Owen” Casey at the North Windsor Baptist Church, where they were both attending services. They married on August 31, 1991, and shared a long and happy marriage. Owen predeceased her in November 2021.

Marion was predeceased by her sister, Patricia Dudley Morang, and brother, Stuart Studley.

Marion had four children, Sarah McCalla, her husband David, who is deceased, Randy Peaslee, his wife Sherry, Rebecca Hurley and Carol Peaslee, who is deceased.

Her grandchildren are Hannah McCune, her husband Steven, William McCalla, Ryan and Kevin Peaslee, Ethan Hurley, his wife Brooke, Neal and Jared Hurley, Derek Peaslee and Devin Violette; her great-grandchildren Natalie, Evelyn and Madelyn McCune and Logan McCune, who is deceased, Hunter and Anabella Peaslee, Leo and Odette Peaslee and Lilyonna Hurley.

She was fortunate to love and be loved by Owen Casey’s family as her own. To include his many sons, daughters, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren; many nieces, nephews, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law and cousins to call her own from both her marriages.

Services will be held at North Windsor Baptist Church on Saturday, April 23, at 11 a.m. There will be a gathering after the service in the basement of the church. A committal service will be held at Dyer Cemetery, in Windsor, in June, date to be announced.

Memories and condolences may be shared to the family at directcremationofmaine.com.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to North Windsor Baptist Church, in Marion’s memory.

STEVE J. GAGNE

WATERVILLE – Steve J. Gagne, 54, of Waterville, passed away on Thursday, April 7, 2022, at his home. Steve was the son of Fernand Gagne and Fernande Gagne. He graduated Winslow High School where he played basketball for the Raiders. Steve spent the majority of his career at SAPPI, in Hinckley, on the paper machines where he made a lot of great friends over the past 30 years.

Steve met his future wife Terri at a karate tournament. After watching her win her division, he decided to introduce himself. They spent a year getting to know each other, and knew they were soulmates. Steve and Terri married in 1992. Shortly thereafter, they welcomed two children into their lives, Christopher in 1992 and Ashleigh in 1994. Steve was a devoted, caring, and loving husband, and father.

Steve loved the outdoors. He would take long walks with the family dog, often times being gone for hours at a time. Steve enjoyed spending time on a snowmobile or motorcycle depending on the season. His greatest joy was spending time with his family. Summer months were filled with beach trips while winter months were filled with skiing or snowmobiling trips. Steve endured cold hunting seasons to spend time with his son, Chris. He shared his passion for basketball with his daughter, Ashleigh. Most importantly, Steve loved spending time with his two grandchildren, Nora and Deacon.

Steve is survived by his wife of 30 years, Terri Gagne; a son Christopher Gagne; a daughter and son-in-law Ashleigh and Isaac Wacome and their children, Nora and Deacon; sisters and brothers-in-law, Gayle and David Giroux, Cindy Gagne, Janet and Greg Gilchrist, Linda Gagne, Tom Clifford; as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins. A Celebration of Life was held at Saint John the Baptist Catholic Church, 26 Monument Street, Winslow, on Tuesday, April 19.

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.

CLARENCE WHITMAN

WINSLOW – Clarence Whitman, 75, of Winslow, passed away Thursday April 7, 2022. He was born December 13, 1946, to Llewellyn Ellis Whitman and Robecca Collier, of Oakland.

He worked at Ralston-Purina chicken factory and later Maine Cascade Ironworks, although there wasn’t anything he put his hands on that he couldn’t fix.

Clarence had a love for anything with an engine. He was best known as the #54 Plumb Crazy racecar at Unity Raceway but raced several tracks throughout the years. Equal to racing he had a love and passion for riding and working on motorcycles. Clarence and his wife Dot made years of memories riding together and taking trips on their Harley with family and friends. Clarence will always be remembered for his willingness to help a friend, stranger or neighbor in need.

Clarence was predeceased by his parents Llewellyn Whitman and Robecca Taylor; brother, Llewellyn Whitman; and nephew, Gary Bucknam.

He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Dorothy Dunham Whitman; daughter, Victoria and husband Tim Davis and his grandchildren Timothy, Mark, Crystal and Gavin and his great-granddaughter Mikayla Coombs; son, Travis Whitman and wife Hiroko and his grandchildren Daniel and Nathaniel; son, Richard Whitman and wife Brenda and his grandchildren PJ, Jessica, Emily and Ty; son, Dennis Whitman and his granddaughter Emma; daughter, Keisha Whitman and fiancé Scott and his grandchildren Danica and Charles; son, Joshua Whitman and wife Jessica and his grandchildren Jasmine and Jaxon; daughter, Sara and husband Dustin Taylor and his grandchildren Wyatt and Sofia; daughter, Natasha and her husband Jacob Solomon and his grandchildren Noah and Patrick; daughter, Samantha-Jo Whitman and grandson Jasper. his sister, Bonnie and husband Ronald Bucknam; brothers, Robert Whitman and wife Elizabeth, and Michael Taylor and partner Dawn.

A celebration of life will be announced and held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Pine Tree Camp, 114 Pine Tree Camp Rd., Rome, ME 04963.

WILMA T. CAREY

WINSLOW – Wilma T. (Quirion) Carey, 95, passed away Friday, April 8, 2022. She was born April 5, 1927, in Winslow, the daughter of Josephat and Mathilda (Ferland) Quirion.

She was educated in Winslow and Jackman, graduating from the Presentation of Mary Academy, in Coaticook, Québec. On May 29, 1948, she married her first husband, Lionel Duquette, and they had two children together. Later, she married the late Lloyd Carey and they owned and operated the Hotel Arnold, in Augusta, for many years.

Wilma was an avid attendee at area auctions where she met many people whom she considered family. In the summers, she loved having garage sales. Nothing made her day happier than engaging in French conversation and playing cards. She was known by one and all as an extremely caring and nurturing lady and she exemplified the person who would “give you the shirt off her back.”

She was predeceased by her parents; husband Lloyd Carey; siblings Joan Young, Laurette Quirion, Norman Quirion, and Donald Quirion; son-in-law Bruce Pomerleau and granddaughter Holly Benson.

Wilma is survived by her partner, Francis Whittier, of Winslow; daughter, Sheila Lord and husband Roy, of Belgrade; son Daniel Duquette and wife Elizabeth, of Tucson, Arizona; grandchildren, Bridget Wing and husband Randy, of St. Albans, Cathy Dumont, of Fairfield, Kimberly Whitley and husband Paul, of Gardiner, Shelly Pomerleau, of Orlando, Florida, Alex Duquette and wife Setareh, of Tucson, Arizona, Benjamin Duquette, of Phoenix, Arizona; great-grandchildren, Jed Crommett and wife Mariah, of Winslow, Jordan Dumont and partner Shylanda Price, Erica Dumont, Kasandra Dumont, all of Fairfield, Brooke Wing and fiancé Jacob Crocker, of Dover-Foxcroft; great-granddaughter, Ella Duquette of Tucson, Arizona; great-great-granddaughter Aubrey Crommett, of Winslow; ex-husband and friend Lionel Duquette; cousins, Belinda Gorneau and sons, Derick, Tony, and AJ, all of Winslow; many nieces, nephews, cousins.

At her request, there will be no visitation hours. A service will be held at 11 a.m., on May 2, 2022, at St. John the Baptist Church, in Winslow.

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

In lieu of flowers, friends wishing may make donations in Wilma’s memory to Charley’s Strays, in Clinton, Maine.

AIME M. LEMIEUX

WATERVILLE – Aime M. Lemieux, 80, of Waterville died peacefully on Friday, April 8, 2022, at Lakewood Continuing Long Care Center, in Waterville. He was born in Ham-Nord, Québec, Canada, on September 10, 1941, the son of Wilfrid and Philomene Dodier.

Aime moved to the Waterville area in the early 1960s and enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving four years during the Vietnam War.

Aime worked for Keyes Fibre Co. and later Huhtamaki, in Waterville, retiring after over 30 years. Both he and his late wife were communicants of St. John the Baptist Church, in Winslow.

He is predeceased, by his wife, Micheline; his brothers and a sister.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on April 20, at St. John the Baptist Church, in Winslow. Burial followed in St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, Grove Street, Waterville

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

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

In lieu of flowers donations in his memory may be made to Northern Light Home Care and Hospice, ATTN: Philanthropy Department, 50 Foden Rd., South Portland, ME 04106.

ALFRED VEILLEUX

WATERVILLE – Alfred “Al” Veilleux, 81, passed away on Saturday, April 9, 2022, at the Androscoggin Hospice House, in Auburn. Al was born on September 5, 1940, in Vassalboro. He graduated from Waterville High School in 1960 where he was best known for his cross country running. He won the state championship for the State of Maine.

Al married his lifelong partner and love, Mary Ann Leadbetter who survives him as well as his son, Paul. He worked as the mail room foreman for the Waterville Morning Sentinel, in Waterville, and the Augusta locations for 45 years. He was best known for his big heart and generosity to all his mailroom crew.

Al was devoted not only to his wife, Mary Ann, but also his best buddy and son, Paul. Al bought Paul his first set of golf clubs at the tender age of 5. They were known as best buddies and good partners through the years and were often seen on some golf course, somewhere in Maine.

He developed a passion for music and collected over 2,200 records which he enjoyed on his private jukebox from the 1950s. Al could always be found in his basement playing cribbage and pool with his friends while listening to his favorite songs.

No services will be held for Al at this time.

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

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

GENE M. WEST

CHELSEA – Gene M. West, 96, of Chelsea, passed away peacefully on Saturday, April 9, 2022. Gene was born in Saco on January 23, 1926, and was a graduate of Thornton Academy, in Saco, and Nasson College, in Springvale.

Gene was predeceased by her mother Ruth West, father George West and her brothers Ralph, George, Neal and her sister, Margaret (Peggy).

Gene is survived by her many nieces and nephews and their families.

Gene and her mother “Mimi” lived on what became known as Raspberry Hill Farm where she originally planted 24 raspberry bushes that grew over time and produced up to 500 pints of berries each year. After graduating college, Gene went on to be the Director of School Nutrition Programs State Department Of Education and Cultural Services for the State of Maine and was very proud of her tenure there.

Gene’s life was dedicated to her faith in Jesus. This is best expressed in the book she authored, Where Did I Come From?

There are no public visiting hours scheduled. A funeral service was held on Saturday April 16, 2022, at Plummer Funeral Home, 16 Pleasant St., Augusta.

Burial will be at a later date in Dunstan Cemetery, Scarborough.

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

RITA L.REDIKER

CLINTON – Rita L. Rediker, 86, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, April 12, 2022, at Lakewood Continuing Care, in Waterville. Rita was born on June 26, 1935, in Waterville, one of 11 children of the late Fortunat and Julia Poulin.

Rita attended Saint Francis de Sales Catholic School, in Waterville, until moving to Clinton in fifth grade. She left Clinton High School at the age of 15 to help support her mother and siblings. Rita spent 43 years working at the Hathaway Shirt Factory, in Waterville, always paying attention to even the smallest detail.

In 1955, she reunited with her childhood friend, Archie “Bob” Rediker and they married a year later. Together they built a life in Clinton and in 1964 built their dream home, which they have never left to this day. She was meticulous in keeping up her homes in Maine and Florida, always making sure they were welcome and ready. She opened her home to many family members for a quick meal or to stay for a time, always making sure that family never went without.

In 1970 they were graced with their only child, Jeffrey. Rita enjoyed spending time at their lake cottage on Unity Pond, as well as her winter home in Zephyrhills, Florida. Rita and Bob turned into social butterflies during their retirement years and met many lifelong friends in the process. People saw them daily walking hand in hand and they were known as the “lovebirds.” Rita and Bob were blessed with 65 years of marriage and she was loved by all that knew her.

In addition to her husband Bob, she is survived by her son, Jeffrey and his husband Michael Hollander, of Clinton; her sister Elaine Gurney; her sisters-in-law Ellen Moody, Beryl Nutt, Barbara Poulin, Betty Poulin; and brother-in-law, Roy Gross. In addition; numerous nieces, nephews, and their families.

In the last few months Rita had lost two brothers, Walter Poulin and Roland “Gus” Poulin. Rita was predeceased by her siblings Wallace Poulin, Evelyn Myshrall, Jeannette Gross, Norman Poulin, Fernand Poulin, Richard Poulin and Olivette Zieminski.

A Mass of Christian burial will take place at 10 a.m., on Friday, April 22, at Notre Dame Catholic Church, 116 Silver St., in Waterville. Burial will be in the late spring.

Arrangements are under the care of Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 107 Main St., Fairfield, ME 04937.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made, in memory of Rita Rediker, to the Maine Children’s Home, 93 Silver St., Waterville, ME 04901

RICHARD P. PLOURD

WATERVILLE – Richard P. Plourd, 90, of Waterville, and formally of West Hartford, Connecticut, died Wednesday, April 13, 2022. He was born October 6, 1931, in Hartford, Connecticut, the son of Filias Plourd and Emily (Allaire) Plourd.

He graduated from Hartford Public High School in 1949. From a young age, Richard had a passion for automobiles. He raced stock cars at Plainville Motor Speedway and enjoyed tinkering and restoring cars his entire adult life. He proudly served in the U.S. Army, in Korea, and upon returning home, married the love of his life Audrey Christensen in 1955.

He worked as a master plumber until joining the West Hartford Fire Department, on February 3, 1961. While his job was a firefighter, he was a also a carpenter, building their first home in Coventry, Connecticut. He earned his pilot’s license flying small planes out of Brainard airport, in Hartford, Connecticut.

In 1967 they “bought the farm”, a 400-acre rural farmhouse, in Anson, because Richard wanted a place for the kids to play. For the next 55 years they enjoyed vacations and time together with family and friends, building years of memories. In 1986 Richard retired from the fire department as Deputy Chief and they moved permanently to the farm in Maine.

He was predeceased by his brother, Robert.

He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Audrey Christensen Plourd; sons Thomas Hogerty, of South Windsor, Connecticut, Mitchell Plourd and wife Deborah, of Madison; daughter, Patricia and husband David Downes, of Newington, Connecticut; and son, William and his wife Alecia, of Canton, Connecticut; his grandchildren Keith and Jody Plourd, Corey and Danielle Dollak, Taylor Cox, Jillian and Brandon Berry, Austin and Samantha Plourd, Christian and Alexandra Plourd, Tyler and Melissa Plourd and Emma Plourd; great-grandchildren Cameron Plourd, Jordyn Plourd, Peyton Plourd, Ethan Plourd, Eliotte Cox, Everly Cox, Owen Plourd and expected in August, Luca Plourd.

RONALD E. BUCHANAN

CHINA – Ronald E. Buchanan passed away at home, following a long battle with heart disease, at Beacon Hospice. He was the son of Norman Buchanan and Alice C. Huntley.

He was raised by his step-father, William E. Huntley, of Scarborough.

He graduated high school in 1959, after which he enlisted in the U.S. Army with his best friend Corydon Mills.

In retirement, he enjoyed vegetable and flower gardening.

He is survived by his wife KathleenA. Huntley; son Jeffrey Buchanan and his wife Mona, of Florida; son Ronald Buchanan and wife Tammy, of Arizona, and son Kyle Davis and Tiffany Davis, of Florida; two step-daughters, Dorothy Huntley and Ashley Huntley, both of China, and Keith Davis, of Litchfield. He helped raise eight children total. He also leaves many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

China transfer station members advise selectboard to buy new loader, soon

by Mary Grow

CHINA, ME — Members of China’s Transfer Station Committee voted unanimously at their April 12 meeting to advise China select board members to buy a new loader as soon as possible, before prices rise any more.

Road Foreman Shawn Reed told committee members the 25-year-old loader his public works department shares with the transfer station is showing its age, but still has trade-in value.

After talking with at least four companies, Reed recommended buying a Volvo loader. The price is $169,700, he said. Transfer Station Manager Ronald Marois said Volvo is offering $29,200 for the old loader.

Reed said he does not know how soon the town could get a loader if select board members approve. One is currently available, he said, but the dealer would not guarantee to hold it if another buyer got in ahead of China.

Reed saw no need to keep the old machine as a spare. If a new one broke down, he said he would expect fast service or a loaner from the seller.

A spare plow truck would be a different matter, he added, after last winter’s experience trying to plow four routes in town with two of China’s four trucks out of service.

Town Manager Rebecca Hapgood said the transfer station’s capital reserve account had $50,250 in it as of June 30, 2021. Another $50,000 was approved in the current year’s budget, and the same amount is requested for 2022-23.

The other major pending project is a building to cover the pre-crusher at the transfer station. Committee chairman Lawrence Sikora and member Mark Davis had talked with metal building suppliers, without getting commitments. Two potential providers had waiting periods of 10 months and 18 months.

Given that delay, committee members have time to continue planning, Sikora concluded. No action was taken.

Another question left for more discussion is whether to recommend changing from the present RFID (radio frequency identification) system for making sure only Palermo and China residents (and a few authorized out-of-towners who pay out-of-town fees) bring waste to the transfer station. Committee and select board members are considering going back to the previous system of stickers on vehicles.

Hapgood asked for a recommendation by September, planning a select board decision in October to be implemented Jan. 1, 2023.

“There’s a lot of things to think about,” she commented.

A problem with the RFID tags is that some holders lend them to out-of-town friends, letting them use the transfer station at China taxpayers’ expense.

Committee members would like additional analysis of the data the RFID system collects (which does not identify individual users, they have emphasized, but does record, for example, how frequently each tag comes in). Sikora had started working with the information; Chris Diesch, one of Palermo’s two committee members, volunteered to take over.

In the latest development concerning the closed Fiberight plant in Hampden, to which China and other Maine towns and cities sent waste for recycling, Hapgood said the Municipal Review Committee (the organization representing the municipalities) asked members for financial backing for the proposed purchase of the facility. She declined on behalf of China.

Transfer station committee members scheduled their next meeting for 9 a.m. Tuesday, May 17.

China planners review proposed new solar ordinance

by Mary Grow

CHINA, ME — The three members of the China Planning Board participating in the April 12 meeting unanimously approved a change of ownership for a South China business.

Savage Nutrition is the new name of the former Backroad Nutrition at 341 Route 3. The business sells “Energizing Teas and Meal Replacement Shakes,” and is self-described on Facebook as a smoothie and juice bar.

Owner Suzanna Brennan told planning board members there will be no changes to the site, building or business with the change in ownership. “Same business, same product, same prices, just a new owner,” she said.

Board members were satisfied with the information provided and approved with little discussion. Walter Bennett asked Brennan about business hours: Monday through Friday 6 a.m. to 3 p.m., weekends 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., she replied.

The board’s agenda included review of proposed land use ordinance amendments and the proposed new Solar Energy Systems Ordinance, considering comments received at and after the March 22 public hearing on the documents (see The Town Line, March 31, p. 3). Chairman Scott Rollins led only a preliminary discussion, postponing detailed review and decisions until more board members were present.

A main issue in the land use ordinance debate is the limit on lot coverage by impervious surfaces in the shoreland zone. China has had a 15 percent limit that does not include driveway and parking areas; the Maine Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) requires counting such non-vegetated areas as impervious.

Many lots around China Lake are so small that buildings on them already cover 15 percent or more of the lot area. Such properties are “grandfathered” under existing ordinances; structures may be maintained, but cannot be expanded.

For residents whose buildings almost reach maximum coverage and who planned to add a shed or deck, adopting the DEP definition would ban such expansions.

Rollins, Bennett and Natale Tripodi all lean toward relaxing the lot coverage limit, changing it from 15 percent to the 20 percent DEP rules allow. Bennett, citing a March 22 proposal by resident Brent Chesley (who also attended the April 12 meeting), suggested 15 percent maximum for structures (fewer buildings would protect views of the lake, he said) plus 5 percent for driveways and other impervious areas.

Outside the shoreland zone, China currently has a 30 percent lot coverage limit. Planning board members were not sure whether DEP has jurisdiction outside shoreland and other protected areas.

Chesley reminded board members that the land use ordinance is not the only water quality protection measure affecting development in China. There are also the state Stormwater Management Law, which applies to any project in the state that disturbs more than an acre of land, and China’s Phosphorus Control Ordinance (Chapter Four of the Land Use Ordinance), which applies in the China Lake and Three Mile Pond watersheds.

During a brief discussion of the proposed solar ordinance, Bennett said board members need more information on effects and impacts of solar developments. They hear only from the developers, he pointed out.

Tripodi cited something he had read about solar arrays consuming too much land. He and Bennett find them unattractive and would like stronger provisions for screening them from view.

Bennett added that a solar development limits other possibilities. He would prefer to have businesses along Route 3 and not solar farms, for example. Board members joked about whether they could ban solar in some areas without invoking the dreaded “z-word” – zoning.

The discussion is to be continued at future meetings, with the hope more members of the public will attend or watch on line and add comments. Bennett suggested seeking approval for a board visit to the solar array on Route 32 North (Vassalboro Road).

The next regular China Planning Board meeting is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 26.

Outside activities return to VCS; other good news

Vassalboro Community School (contributed photo)

by Mary Grow

VASSALBORO, ME — Vassalboro School Board members got quite a lot of good news at their April 13 meeting.

Assistant Principal Greg Hughes shared the first item, in his administrator’s report: extracurricular programs are being scheduled again, after two years of pandemic-induced hiatus.

He said one field trip has already been held and two more are planned before the term ends. In-school programs like the book fair and group discussions of shared problems are back, too.

“It feels really good,” Hughes said. He thanked members of the Vassalboro Community School (VCS) Parent-Teacher Organization for their help.

Superintendent Alan Pfeiffer joined Hughes in thanking PTO volunteers. He added another piece of good news: enough four-year-old students have enrolled so next year’s pre-kindergarten will have two sections.

State funds will pay almost all the costs, Pfeiffer said, including a teacher aide for the second class and furniture and supplies for the additional classroom. The local school budget will fund a second pre-kindergarten teacher.

Previously and this year, the superintendent said, after the single pre-kindergarten class was full VCS administrators helped parents enroll their children in out-of-town programs.

Finance Director Paula Pooler had yet more good news.

The audit for the prior fiscal year, 2020-21, showed the food service program was in the black, for the first time in several years; and this year, so far, it still is, she reported. For the current year, overall spending is on target; there is no indication the total 2021-22 budget will fall short.

Next year’s budget, approved unanimously on a first (preliminary) reading by school board members, totals $8,722,176.29. That figure is an increase of more than $400,000 over the current year.

However, state revenue is also up, with the result that if $80,000 is taken from the school’s surplus account (deliberately increased in previous years, Pfeiffer said, so that it could be a revenue source), the school will ask for a little over $77,000 less from Vassalboro taxpayers next year than this year.

Budget committee and school board members were scheduled to review the proposed budget at an April 19 meeting. Vassalboro voters will make final decisions on 2022-23 school spending at their open town meeting June 6 and will reaffirm or reject the budget by written ballot June 14 (the so-called school budget referendum).

Pooler emphasized that higher federal funding due to the pandemic is a big contributor to this year’s and next year’s budgets. When federal funds decline, local spending will need to increase again. Meanwhile, she said, Vassalboro (and its former partners in AOS [Alternative Organizational Structure] #92, Waterville and Winslow) are making sure they get everything they’re entitled to.

In other business April 15, school board members accepted several resignations, including that of assistant principal Hughes.

Principal Megan Allen resigned earlier this spring. Board Chairman Kevin Levasseur opened the meeting by denying a rumor that she and Hughes had been fired. Only the school board could fire them, and the board did not do so; they resigned, for their individual reasons, he said.

Allen wrote in the March 27 school newsletter that she resigned because her experience as principal showed her that “I am a teacher at heart and belong in a classroom.” She plans to work at the college level “to teach future teachers” and to return to middle-school teaching.

A 13-person committee, including school personnel and members of the public, was scheduled to start reviewing resumes of applicants for Allen’s and Hughes’ positions on April 14. This committee, Levasseur told audience members, cannot accept additional volunteers; because it deals with personnel, deliberations are by law confidential.

However, he and Pfeiffer said, volunteers are welcome for other tasks at VCS, including playground and cafeteria monitoring and assisting with a planned library reorganization. There are plans to post volunteer opportunities on the website, vcsvikings.org.

Board member Jessica Clark added that librarian and media specialist Melora Norman is choosy about her volunteers: she wants people who will follow her instructions, not try to tell her how things should be done. Board and audience members smiled understandingly.

Clark asked Pfeiffer what he and other administrators are doing to reduce the number of remote days, when too few staff are available to cover all classes.

“We need people,” Pfeiffer replied. He thanked VCS personnel who have filled in when colleagues are out sick.

The problem is not just local, he added, citing the state-wide shortage of teachers and especially substitute teachers and the difficulty many schools have retaining staff. In an April 12 letter posted on the website, Pfeiffer wrote that during this school year 21 Maine principals have “left their positions” and there have been “22 changes in superintendencies,” including 15 retirements.

After the April 19 budget meeting (and follow-up meetings if needed), the next regular Vassalboro school board meeting is currently scheduled for 6 p.m. Tuesday, May 17.

Select board approves trail at Spectacle Pond; postpones decision on background checks

by Mary Grow

VASSALBORO, ME — Vassalboro select board members approved four of the varied items on their April 14 agenda, one formally; rejected one request; and postponed other decisions for more information.

By a unanimous vote, they approved a trail agreement with the state Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife (IF&W) for maintenance of the Spectacle Pond Trail, a loop trail off Cross Hill Road across state-owned land to the east shore of Spectacle Pond.

John Melrose, speaking for Vassalboro’s Trails Committee, said the agreement codifies existing arrangements. The trail will remain a “primitive hiking trail” for “walking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing,” but no motorized use; and IF&W can close the trail or terminate the agreement at any time for any reason.

Vassalboro is to maintain the trail and oversee its use and condition. The town may put up an informational kiosk at the road with a map and trail rules, and Melrose intends to discuss with IF&W officials putting markers at trail intersections and providing roadside parking.

Because of the steep descent, Melrose doubts the Spectacle Pond Trail will be heavily used.

Without voting, select board members approved Town Manager Mary Sabins’ first draft of the warrant for the June 6 (open meeting) and June 14 (written ballot) annual town meeting.

They added a non-binding question to the written ballot asking if voters want a new town ordinance that would govern solar development in town. The advisory question was suggested because town officials spent time drafting a Mass Gatherings Ordinance that voters rejected in November 2021.

That ordinance was presented in anticipation of a country music festival on Nelson Road this summer. Some audience members said they believe the festival is still scheduled, for July.

Also approved without a formal vote was Sabins’ proposed job description for a new town employee whose responsibilities would include running the recreation program. Given the more extensive duties listed, the job was retitled Community Program Director. Sabins said she had received no negative reactions from people currently heading recreation activities.

The town manager had a request from the Municipal Review Committee (MRC), the body representing the Maine municipalities that invested in the closed Fibreright trash recycling plant in Hampden, for financial support as the MRC looks toward buying the facility. Selectboard members agreed with her recommendation that they ignore the request.

Select board members put off a decision on Codes Officer Ryan Page’s recommendations for higher permit fees until Page talked with planning board members (their next meeting is May 3, he said) and until they hold a public hearing on the proposed increases.

The decision on adopting a salary schedule was also postponed. Board member Chris French was ready to act, but Chairman Robert Browne and member Barbara Redmond wanted to wait until after town meeting voters act on salaries proposed in the 2022-23 budget.

A proposed background check policy was postponed for rewriting to limit it to employees and volunteers who are not already covered and who work with children. One suggestion was to add requirements to individual boards’ bylaws, where appropriate, instead of creating a town policy.

Sabins and others said employees, firefighters, first responders and other groups already have background check requirements. Sabins said she did not think it appropriate to ask people who have served for years on committees like the planning board or the budget committee to undergo background checks.

The April 14 meeting was delayed for almost an hour as select board members met in executive session with town attorney Kristin Collins. During the wait, audience members talked in the town office lobby about drug dealing in town, the condemned former church building in North Vassalboro and other issues.

They brought up the church building with select board members near the end of the meeting. The church has been condemned as a dangerous building, and town meeting voters are asked to approve $25,000 for demolition.

Residents who spoke want faster action. People are living in the building, they said, although it has no electricity, running water or sanitary facilities, creating a potential fire hazard as they use a stove to keep warm.

Browne told them the situation is being addressed.

The next regular Vassalboro select board meeting is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Thursday, April 28.

Give Us Your Best Shot! for Thursday, April 21, 2022

To submit a photo for this section, please visit our contact page or email us at townline@townline.org!

HANGIN’ OUT: Emily Poulin, of South China, photographed this loon hanging out in the lake.

JUST PASSING THROUGH: Bonnie Squiers captured this deer trotting through the backyard with one hoof on the ground.

SEEING DOUBLE: Deborah Guzelian snapped this double rainbow recently over the lake.

St. Michael student in Augusta uses “Principal for a Day” to help innocent of Ukraine

St. Michael School Principal Kevin Cullen, standing, with “principal of the day” Natania. (contributed photo)

AUGUSTA, ME — When Natania, a first grader at St. Michael School, in Augusta, was informed she would get to serve as “Principal for a Day” on Tuesday, April 5. Her first thought was to use her newfound “power” to effect positive change.

“She decided to give everyone a dress down day for a donation of $2 or more per person,” said Principal Kevin Cullen. “All of the proceeds would go to the people of Ukraine. Amazing.”

On Tuesday, Natania was welcomed into each classroom with a “Good Morning, Principal Natania” as she made her way around the school collecting donations.

“In total, we raised close to $800 for the people of Ukraine,” said Cullen.

Marianne Pelletier, superintendent of Maine Catholic Schools, even called Natania to thank her for her efforts.

Vassalboro Centenarian

Lois Bulger, of Vassalboro.

VASSALBORO, ME — Lois Bulger, Vassalboro’s oldest citizen, was feted recently by her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, on the occasion of her 100th birthday.

She was born in Oakland on April 24, 1922. She has lived most of her adult life in Vassalboro where she and her husband raised their family, raised horses and later owned and operated a small antique shop.

Vassalboro couple invites furry friends into their home for temporary care

Drizzle, left, and Fritter, at the Kitten Korner. (photos by Chris Choyce)

by Gillian Lalime

Entering into the apartment of Justin Saragosa and Chris Choyce you’ll most likely hear tiny meows coming from a certain corner.

Justin Saragosa and Chris Choyce

In the summer of 2018 the young couple was facing increasing rent prices in Portland and decided to move up to central Maine, where Justin is from. When the pandemic hit they were temporarily furloughed. This newfound time inspired them to begin something they’d wanted to do: foster animals! The in-law apartment they’d moved to had a little extra space, an empty corner to be specific. The Kitten Korner was born on Easter Sunday 2020, becoming a temporary home to their first foster kittens.

Over the last two years, The Kitten Korner has provided a home for 70 cats and two dogs with support from the Humane Society Waterville Area. Many animal shelters don’t receive funding from their town or state and rely on donations from local folks.

Fostering animals serves an important role in the community. Instead of an animal growing up in a shelter or becoming a neighborhood stray, fostering provides cats and dogs with a warm, nourishing, and loving home. Most of the costs associated with caring for animals are out of pocket, so the couple set up a Facebook page for the small operation. The Kitten Korner posts photos of the cute creatures, shares animal care tips, and promotes shelter events. Additionally, people from the community have connected with The Kitten Korner when encountering stray animals in their neighborhoods and to donate pet food, litter, toys, or make financial contributions.

While always having tiny bundles of fur roaming your home might sound like fun, Justin and Chris say the last two years have had their ups and downs. To anyone interested in fostering, Chris offers a few words of advice: “Compassion fatigue is a real thing – be sure to give yourself a break now and then.”

Once kittens are old enough for adoption, they are returned to the shelter. They have found it difficult to return animals they have nurtured, yet rewarding to watch them grow. It is also a lesson in understanding the importance of spaying or neutering pets and making sure they don’t get lost or wander off.

The Kitten Korner looks forward to a future where they have an entire room devoted to the care of foster animals. Possibly expanding to “pocket pets” like guinea pigs or rabbits, and working with other local shelters.

For more information about the operation please visit: https://www.facebook.com/thekittenkorner/photos/.

 

 

 

Issue for April 14, 2022

Issue for April 14, 2022

Celebrating 34 years of local news

China Primary School’s faculty lounge gets a nice face lift

As most people are already aware, teaching young children is already an exhausting profession – but with quarantines, masking, and social distancing, the last couple of “Covid” years have brought teachers to a new level of exhaustion! Our China Schools Parent Teacher Organi­zation (PTO) noticed this and wanted to show their love and support in a way that would be useful to our staff every day… Submitted by Melissa Robie Calouro, Pre-K teacher at CPS

Your Local News

China select board unanimously approves 38-article warrant

CHINA — China select board members have unanimously approved the 38-article warrant for the June 14 annual town business meeting. The April 11 select board meeting was preceded by a very short budget committee meeting, at which that board endorsed revised wording of two articles…

CBC members enthused about new expansion possibility

CHINA — China Broadband Committee (CBC) members are enthusiastic about a new possibility for expanding internet service in China, and so are officials at the possible providers, the Unity-based telephone and communications company Unitel…

Planners approve minor exterior changes at Kennebec Water District

VASSALBORO — Vassalboro Planning Board members quickly and without dissent approved a minor exterior change at the Kennebec Water District (KWD) treatment plant at 462 Main Street (Route 32), between East and North Vassalboro…

Three candidates on June 14 ballot

VASSALBORO — Vassalboro residents will have three candidates for three open local positions on their June 14 election ballot…

Select board awards roadside mowing contract

WINDSOR — At their March 15 meeting, the Windsor Select Board awarded the 2022 roadside mowing contract to Pierce Works, LLC, of South China, among the three select board members in attendance, Ray Bates, Ronald Brann and William Appel Jr. Absent were Richaed Gray Jr. and Andrew Ballantyne…

Name that film!

Identify the film in which this line originated and qualify to win FREE passes to Railroad Square Cinema in Waterville: “You’ve got to ask yourself one question. Do I feel lucky? Well, do ya punk?” Email us at townline@townline.org with subject “Name that film!” Deadline for submission is May 13, 2022…

LETTERS: Swift will work to benefit all

from Bob Bennett (South China) – This past weekend I had the pleasure of meeting Pam Swift who is running as a Democrat for Maine’s District #62 House of Representative seat in this fall’s election. I was very impressed by her experience in and interest and commitment to areas such as health care, the environment and the welfare of her potential constituents…

Erskine Academy Renaissance awards

CHINA On Friday, April 8, Erskine Academy held a Renaissance assembly to recognize second trimester award recipients. Recognition Awards were presented to the following students: Parker Studholme, Andrew Shaw, David McCaig, Lauren Tyler, Balquis Hutami, and Damon Wilson…

Up and down the Kennebec Valley: Blacks in Maine – Part 1 (new)

MAINE HISTORY — So far, people in this history series have been almost entirely the group that is still Maine’s majority population: white people descended mostly from inhabitants of the British Isles, plus representatives of other northern and western European countries. For example, Millard Howard wrote in his Palermo history that early settlers in that town came mostly from Massachusetts or New Hampshire, sometimes via coastal Maine… by Mary Grow [1944 words]

Up and down the Kennebec Valley: Wars – Part 14

MAINE HISTORY — The wars on which this series has provided information so far began with fighting against the European power that once claimed the United States and continued with the 1861-1865 war between two parts of the United States… by Mary Grow [1747 words]

Up and down the Kennebec Valley: Wars – Part 12

MAINE HISTORY — The United States Civil War, which began when the Confederates shelled Fort Sumter, South Carolina, on April 12, 1861, and ended with General Robert E. Lee’s surrender at Appomattox, Virginia, on April 9, 1865, had the most impact on Maine, including the central Kennebec Valley, of any 17th or 18th century war… by Mary Grow [2191 words]

Up and down the Kennebec Valley: Wars – Part 11

MAINE HISTORY — Many historians don’t take the Aroostook War seriously. Several sources call it the Pork and Beans War; Wikipedia says the nickname is based on either the local lumbermen’s or the British soldiers’ staple food. Some of the local histories cited earlier in this series don’t even mention the war… by Mary Grow [1958 words]

Town Meetings Schedule for 2022

A list of local town meetings for Albion, China, Fairfield, Palermo, Sidney, Solon, Vassalboro and Windsor…

Webber’s Pond

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

CALENDAR OF EVENTS: Hyssongs to offer free concert

SKOWHEGAN — Free concert, The Hyssongs, Sunday, April 17, at New Horizons Community Church, 31 East Madison Rd., Skowhegan, at 10 a.m…. and many other local events!

Obituaries

BENTON – Roland “Rollie” Arthur Woodworth, 67, died Friday, April 1, 2022, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, following a two-year battle with cancer. Roland was born on November 18, 1954, in Waterville, to Harry (Skip) and June Barker Woodworth… and remembering 9 others.

Common Ground: Win a $10 gift certificate!

DEADLINE: Friday, April 12, 2022

Identify the people in these three photos, and tell us what they have in common. You could win a $10 gift certificate to Retail Therapy Boutique in Waterville! 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: Diane Gardner, Windsor

Town Line Original Columnists

Roland D. HalleeSCORES & OUTDOORS

by Roland D. Hallee | Recently, I received information from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Veterinary Services Labora­tories confirming the presence of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in samples taken from small flocks of non-commercial backyard birds (non-poultry); Lincoln County (March 17); Knox and York counties (March 19); Cumberland County (March 22); and Washington County (March 26)…

MY POINT OF VIEW

by Gary Kennedy | Here comes Peter Cotton Tail hopping down the bunny trail once again. It seems he is very punctual as he seems to appear to the children first with copious amounts of colored candy. My favorite was always the yellow coconut covered marshmallow rabbits closely followed up by the chocolate bunnies of the same configuration…

Peter CatesREVIEW POTPOURRI

by Peter Cates | Peter Falk will always be best-remembered as the cigar burning homicide detective Lt. Columbo and rightfully so. His characterization of a man whose persona was that of a socially awkward bungler who was so easily distracted by the most insipidly trivial, useless pieces of information and yet would fool murderers time and again into thinking they would never get caught with his standard “Oh, I apologize for bothering you but just one more question!”…

I’M JUST CURIOUS

by Debbie Walker | Being from Maine we are accustomed to some hard to pronounce names of towns, rivers, etc., due to the Native American historical names as are many other states residents. Yesterday we came across some other ‘uncommon’ names. What follows are ones I found last night on the internet…

FOR YOUR HEALTH

(NAPSI) | Being from Maine we are accustomed to some hard to pronounce names of towns, rivers, etc., due to the Native American historical names as are many other states residents. Yesterday we came across some other ‘uncommon’ names. What follows are ones I found last night on the internet…