Whatever happened to Linda, Gloria, George or Peter?

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Olivia and Liam are once again America’s most popular baby names, with 2023 being the fifth consecutive year that parents have chosen the monikers for their little ones. Also for the fifth consecutive year, Noah took the second slot for boys, and Emma for girls. Only one new name appeared in the Top 10 lists this year, with Mateo joining the boys for the first time.

Here are the top 10 boys’ and girls’ names for 2023:

Boys: 1. Liam, 2. Noah, 3. Oliver, 4. James, 5. Elijah, 6. Mateo, 7. Theodore, 8. Henry, 9. Lucas, 10. William.

Girls: 1. Olivia, 2. Emma, 3. Charlotte, 4. Amelia, 5. Sophia, 6. Mia, 7. Isabella, 8. Ava, 9. Evelyn, 10. Luna.

Every year, Social Security celebrates Mother’s Day by announcing the ,1000 most popular baby names. You can view the full list at www.ssa.gov/babynames, and see how popular your name was the year you were born and where it’s ranked now.

“To all the incredible moms in our lives. Your love, strength, and selflessness motivate us all, and we thank you for everything you do,” said Social Security Commissioner Martin O’Malley. “Know that Social Security is here to help you continue to provide for your families – by securing a Social Security number for your child, filing for benefits for yourself or your family members, and so much more. We will never stop working for you.”

Social Security’s programs are particularly important for women, who made up 55 percent of adult Social Security beneficiaries in 2023. Women typically have longer life expectancies than men and earn less income over their lifetime due to the combined impact of the gender wage gap, caregiving responsibilities, overrepresentation in low-paid jobs, and more. Social Security also provides critical benefits to 2.6 million children, including nearly one million low-income children with disabilities who receive Supplemental Security Income benefits. People can visit www.ssa.gov to learn more about how Social Security’s expanded digital services make it easier than ever for women and children to access critical benefits and services.

What’s in a Name?

Parents apply for their child’s Social Security card when they are born, making the agency America’s top source for baby names. The agency began compiling the baby names list in 1997, with names dating back to 1880. Each year, the list reveals the effect of pop culture on naming trends.

It’s clear that social media stars had a major influence on new parents in 2023. Powerful names also proved very attractive to parents in 2023. Emryn made her debut in the Top 1,000 baby names after moving up 1,287 spots – Ryn translates to “ruler,” so it is no shock to see Emryn becoming a leader amongst the girls. Meanwhile Chozen, the second fastest rising boy’s name, fought up to number 813 in 2023. Here are the top five fastest rising boys’ and girls’ names in 2023:

Boys: 1. Izael, 2. Chozen, 3. Eiden, 4. Cassian, 5. Kyren.

Girls: 1. Kaeli, 2. Alitzel, 3. Emryn, 4. Adhara, 5. Azari.

VETERANS CORNER: Only 6% of 18.5M veterans receive disability benefits

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Veterans Administration facility at Togus. (Internet photo)

by Gary Kennedy

There are approximately 18.5 million veterans and only six percent have received V.A. Disability benefits. There are millions of benefits waiting to be spoken for. Every week that I write this column I should be heading for a conclusion but suredly such is not the case. Just this week I met three veterans who didn’t know the true story behind the existence of the Veterans Administration.

Togus VA is the first Veterans Center. Originally, the facility was used as a summer resort called Togus Springs. Togus Springs was established in 1859 by Horace Beals, a very wealthy granite merchant from Rockland, Maine. The name Togus comes from the Native American word “Worromontogus”, which means “Mineral Water”. I believe this time forward would place us at the very beginning of the Civil War. So, long story short, since Togus still exists, it is the oldest as well. I have watched it’s evolution for more than 55 years. The little pond of water by the hospitality house has been a special place. Once upon a time it was larger and was believed to have healing powers. It seems to me that would be an appropriate place for a healing center; and for the most part it is. Occasionally, it loses it’s way but always seems to find a way to return to it’s positive self.

Once known as Chases Acres with 1,000 acres, it was divided into half thus leaving approximately 500 acres. This in my opinion is plenty of growth room. It also has a couple of cemeteries with lots of history. Wild life abounds in this place and thrives. Occasionally, the areas wildlife has to be reduced because of over populations. However, I own some property within the confines of the original property and my wife and I enjoy it very much. We have many animal friends who know when they are not in danger. For us Togus is not only a Medical Center but a refuge for the veteran who needs aid and attendance.

Many lives have begun anew in the past 160 years. We were the first to accept women veterans. Senator Olympia Snowe was a champion in later years in this area. Many great people have walked through these gates. There is an unbelievable history in this one little area. The Winthrop library has some great literature for all of a curious heart.

If you served in the military and have some medical issues there is a very good chance that your service to your country had something to do with it, in one way or another. Many veterans that I have met with have decided they don’t qualify for help for many reasons. Some say, yes, I did this in the military but I didn’t report it or didn’t make an issue of it. They forget the big picture. When you took that physical and signed on the dotted line you entered into a two party contract. The contract basically implied that you would serve your country however needed and your country would be there for you and yours when needed. That contract extended to your family as well. Medically speaking, little things can become big things. All you need to do is remember the promise you make each other.

You can apply online, by mail, in person or by seeking out a Veterans Service Officer, (VSO). Online: apply at v.a.gov, by mail: download and complete VA form 21-526EZ and mail it to the Department of Veterans Affairs; in person: visit V.A. and seek out a (V.S.O.), Veterans Service Officer. The benefits you could likely be eligible for are Disability Compensation, Health Benefits or even a pension. If you were injured in anyway in the military you most likely have something going for you. You just need to know how to pursue it. That is why it is important to seek out a V.S.O. for advice. Don’t be afraid to do that. That is why they are there. Most of these folks are veterans themselves. Also, it’s their career and that is a paid position for them and a right to service for you. No harm will come to you and perhaps you will become pleasantly surprised at the result. Remember that contract you signed with the U.S.A.. I think you will find they are as honorable as you have been.

Thank you for your service is spoken thousands of times daily by those that genuinely appreciate you for the contribution you gave your country. The V.A.’s door is open 24 hours a day to it’s members in need. As of last September there were an estimated 17.9 million veterans in the USA. As of one year ago there were 5.27 million veterans with a service connected disability. This figures include physical and emotional disability conditions. Call 623-8411. someone is always there to answer your call. Stay safe brothers and sisters. God bless and keep you safe.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, September 5, 2024

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LINDA A. CARTER

WATERVILLE ­– Linda A. (Hachey) Carter, 73, of Waterville, passed away on Saturday, July 20, 2024, following a long illness. She was born, in Waterville, on September 22, 1950, the daughter of Napoleon and Germaine Hachey.

Linda and Jack Carter, were married on September 4, 1971. After spending some time in Virginia Beach, Virginia, Jack and Linda returned to Watervillee, where they lived for over 50 years.

Linda spent her career working in the Human Resources Department at the Kennebec Valley Community Action Program. Linda had a deep love for camping and traveling with her family. She lived her life to the fullest by enjoying simple pleasures: caring for her family, connecting with friends, and spending time with her grandchildren. Linda was a devoted mother, wife and friend.

She is survived by her husband Jack; children, Jason Carter and wife Stella, and Melissa Minihan, and her husband Chris; two grandchildren, Harper Minihan and Amelia Carter; and sisters Diane Traynor and Karen Andre.

Linda was predeceased by her parents, Napoleon and Germaine Hachey and her nephew John (Mickey) Traynor.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association at www.als.org/get-involved-now/donate.

There will be no visiting hours.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, September 21, 2024, from noon to 2 p.m., at the Notre Dame Church, 116 Silver St., Waterville, ME.

JEFFERY RANCOURT

WATERVILLE – Jefferey Rancourt, 26, passed away on Monday, August 12, 2024. He was born February 14, 1998.

He had a small business going (Rancourt’s Auto) along with a steady job with great people. Jeff was a mechanic with a big heart full of compassion. He loved his nieces, his animals, and mother the most. Jeff grew up in Waterville and Troy. He loved to fish, go to the lake, and take on any adventure. His biggest passion was to tinker on things, especially vehicles. There wasn’t a job he’d say no to.

Jeff is predeceased by his Mémère and Pépère, Regina and Francis Rancourt; mother Sherry Rancourt, uncle Steven Hodgdon Sr., aunt Jean Rancourt.

He is survived by his father and mother-in-law, Roger and Stacy Hodgdon Jr.; grandmother and grandfather, Roger and Doris Hodgdon Sr.; brother and sister-in- law, Roger and Meghan Hodgdon III, sisters and brothers-in-law, Halona Rancourt, Peter Stanton Jr., Louann Rancourt and Christopher Morris, Nikkia Hodgdon and Ben Quimby, Monica Hodgdon, and Emily Hodgdon; nieces, Camilla and MaryJane Dupee, Zaileigh, Felicity, and Adelaide Stanton; and nephews, Conner Hodgdon and Brady Quimby. He is also survived by many cousins, aunts, uncles, and beloved friends.

There will be a celebration of life to be announced at a later date and funeral services will also be at a later time.

If you’d like to help out or donate for celebration of life please reach out to Halona Rancourt @ 207-313-3165. Call or text. Please leave a voice message if there is no answer.

ARTHUR L. CLARK

BELGRADE – Arthur L. Clark, “Uncle Artie”, 99, passed away peacefully Thursday, August 15, 2024.

Born in Augusta, he was a standout football player at Cony High School. Upon graduation in 1943, he entered the U.S. Navy and became proficient at Morse code and remained stateside to train others.

Following World War II, he married Eleanor Wentzel and attended the University of Maine Orono, playing football and earning a teaching degree in mathematics. He taught math and coached football at Williams High School, in Oakland, for 10 years before taking the same teaching position in Winslow. He also became a well-known and respected football referee.

Beginning in 1949 he joined the overnight boys Camp Kennebec staff in North Belgrade. He spent 30 summers teaching and leading an 18-day canoe trip from Chesuncook down the Allagash waterway to Fort Kent.

Retiring from teaching and counseling, he then explored the world on numerous bicycle trips, but always came home to the Maine woods.

He held the Boston Post Gold Cane for several years as Belgrade’s oldest citizen.

Revered as an outstanding educator, counselor, woodworker and woodsman, he touched many lives in a positive way. His lasting motto was: “leave the campsite better than you found it.”

Arthur was predeceased by his wife Eleanor and daughter Barbara Collins.

He is survived by son Donald Clark, daughters, Peggy Contreras and Nancy Clark; six grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

A celebration of life will be held at The Center for All Seasons, in Belgrade, Sunday, October 13, 2024, from 1 – 4 p.m. Coffee, tea and cake provided.

Any donation in his memory may be sent to the McGrath Pond Salmon Lake Association (MPSLA), P.O. Box 576, Oakland ME 04963.

KENNETH B. HALLEE

WATERVILLE – Kenneth Bryan Hallee, 67, passed away Friday, August 23, 2024, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Augusta. He was born May 9, 1957, the son of Rodney Hallee and Patricia Martineau.

Ken attended local schools, graduating from Winslow High School in 1976. After graduating, Ken worked at C. F. Hathaway Shirt Factory, in Waterville, for many years before moving to Santa Fe, Arizona, where he lived out his golden years. After he retired, Ken moved back to Maine to be closer to family. He loved decorating and celebrating the holidays, especially Halloween.

Ken was predeceased by his father; grandmother Lucille Roy; uncle Maurice Roy; and sister Lisa Martineau.

He is survived by his parents, Pat and Dick Martineau; his son Andy Hallee; daughter Amy Hamm and husband Jason; brother Tony Hallee and wife Jennifer and their son Wayde; brother Keith Hallee and wife Kathy and their sons Mike and Matt.

There was a celebration of life at the Martineau’s residence, on Saturday, August 31, 2024.

Arrangements are in the care of Veilleux, Redington and Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 8 Elm St., Waterville, where condolences, memories, and photos may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the website at https://www.vrlfuneralhome.com/.

JOHN C. GARDNER

SOUTH CHINA – John Clifford Gardner, 77, of South China, peacefully passed away on Thursday, August 29, 2024. He was born in Rockland, to Clifford and Blanche Gardner.

John attended Rockland District High School, graduating in 1965. John soon enlisted in the U.S. Army Security Agency and was assigned to the USASA 76th Special Operations Unit, in Taiwan, until 1969. Following his service, John obtained a degree in business administration from the University of Southern Maine and worked for Casco Northern Bank as branch manager, and then loan officer in Cape Elizabeth, Raymond and then Portland.

In 1988, John was employed by the Maine District Office of the U.S. Small Business Administration as Senior Commercial Loan Officer. He had several different roles, including several natural disaster assignments. He retired early from the Small Business Administration in July 2010 as the Economic Development Officer.

In his free time, John was an avid hunter, model train collector and photography enthusiast. He spent most of his retirement visiting with friends and family, investing countless hours researching his genealogy, and looking for a good deal at Marden’s.

John was predeceased by his parents, Clifford and Blanche Gardner; and brother, Joel Gardner.

He leaves behind his brother and sister-in-law, Pastor James and Becky Gardner; sister and brother-in-law, Janet and James Shaw; son and daughter-in-law, Jonathan and Patricia Gardner; daughter and son-in-law, Sarah and Jerry Matalonis; grandchildren Claire Gardner, Natalie Dumas and Jack Seltzer; niece, Tiffany Shaw; nephews, Benjamin Shaw and wife Audrey Shaw, nephew, Jared Shaw, Joel Gardner and wife Daniela Gardner; grandnephew, Sawyer Shaw; grandnieces Aislinn and Lillia Shaw; and many loving friends.

A period of visitation will be held on Sunday, September 8, 2024, from 2 to 4 p.m., at Plummer Funeral Home, 16 Pleasant St., Augusta, ME 04330. A funeral service will be held on Monday, September 9, 2024, at 11 a.m., with burial to follow at the Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 163 Mt. Vernon Rd., Augusta, ME 04330.

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

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the General Society of Mayflower Descendants at themayflowersociety.org in John’s honor.

Others Departed

MARGARET M. ZAPPAS

ATASCADERO, Calif. – Margaret “Peggy” McAleer Zappas passed away at home, on Wednesday, June 5, 2024, in Atascadero, California. She battled glioblastoma with courage, strength, and dignity for five years. Peggy was born on January 14, 1950, to Blanche and John McAleer, in Waterville.

Peg attended Waterville High School, and enjoyed her summers at the family camp on Snow Pond. People were drawn to her positive attitude, great sense of humor, and cheerful smile which contributed to her winning several beauty pageant, as she was also gorgeous.

After attending the University of Maine, Peg worked for American Airlines, in Chicago, where she appeared in several national advertising campaigns. Being a person to never sit still, Peg took up long distance cycling, running, and swimming which led to her meeting the love of her life, Mike Zappas. After starting their family in Torrance, California, Peg and Mike moved to Atascadero where Mike grew his company, Z Villages Management and Development. In Atascadero, Peggy was active in the community, and loved to share her love of life, family, food, reading, travel and especially fitness.

Peg was predeceased by her mom and dad, Blanche and John.

She is survived by her husband, Mike Zappas, of Atascadero, California; sons Tucker Zappas, of San Francisco, California, John and Lindsay Zappas and grandson Orion, of Los Angeles, California, Max and Sydney Zappas, of Atascadero, California, daughter Zoe Zappas, of Boulder, Colorado; brother Mike and Betsy McAleer, of Bloomfield, Connecticut; sister Martha and Carmen Morselli, of Moriches, New York; brother Martin and Lori McAleer, of Yarmouth; many nephews and nieces.

In memory of Peggy donations can be made at glioblastomafoundation.org

NANCY ROBBINS

SIDNEY – Nancy Robbins, 85, of Sidney, passed away.

She was predeceased by many family members including granddaughter Rohan Marley and great-granddaughter, Jennie Mailloux.

She is survived by Donald Robbins, husband 45 years; Pat, Bridget, Michael, and Terry McCabe, her children; Winnie Robbins Kinsella and Eric Robbins, her stepchildren; Jenny Corbett, Acadia Mailloux, Branwen Robbins, Rachel Jennifer, Jeffrey Hill, and their partners, and Capri McCabe, the youngest of the grandchildren; great-grandchildren Rianna, Reya, and Rainey Jennifer, Jack and Quinn Hill, Jackson and Calder Mailloux, and Hudson, Isla, and Matthew Corbett; nieces Mary Minctons, Liz and Cathy Downing, Sarah Simpson, nephews Ethan Downing, Michael Simpson; so many cousins, in-laws and ex-laws.

Please see AT Hutchins website for more information: https://www.athutchins.com/obituary/Nancy-Robbins.

LETTERS: Let’s send Mike Ray to the Maine House

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To the editor:

With the summer vacation season coming to a close and schools about to start, voters will begin to focus on the November 5th general election.I will be among the voters in Appleton, Islesboro, Liberty, Lincolnville, Montville, Morrill and Searsmont who will be voting to send Mike Ray to the Maine House of Representatives to replace the retiring Paige Zeigler.

Mike, who has served on the Lincolnville Select Board since 2020, has been a community leader. I know from my own experience that Mike listens, learns and follows through on constituent issues and concerns and cares deeply about his community. Among other things, Mike serves on the Maine Municipal Association Legislative Policy Committee and the Midcoast Council of Governments.

As a Maine State Representative, Mike Ray will work to secure reliable funding to ensure our roads are maintained, fight to lower costs for Maine families and to create more good-paying jobs, help our communities face the severe storms resulting from climate change and promote district-wide cooperation on land use, infrastructure and emergency services.

Please join me in supporting Mike Ray this November 5.

Bart Carhart
Lincolnville

WATERVILLE: National Night Out Festival draws large turnout to South End

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Scott McAadoo helping as cook/food tent crew. (Photo by Galen Neal, Central Maine Photography)

On August 6, 2024, The South End Neighborhood Association (SENA) held its 18th Annual South End National Night Out Festival. This event is held to celebrate community and partnerships within Waterville’s South End neighborhood. This year included a free barbecue, live music, a magician, youth activities, giveaways, and so much fun. Throughout the year, SENA collaborates with local businesses and community partners on projects and programs to enhance Waterville’s South End Neighborhood.

Aerial view looking over the park.(Photo by Galen Neal, Central Maine Photography)

Vassalboro school supplies drive another success

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From left to right, Ira Michaud (VCS Principal), Jessica, Lisa and Donald Breton, Tabitha Brewer (VCS Assistant Principal). (contributed photo)

The 6th annual School Supplies Drive By Drop Off, held on August 24, to support the children who attend the Vassalboro Community School, was another huge success. The organizers thank Walmart, Huhtamaki, Caswell’s Liquidation, Staples and Marden’s for their donations, as well as all the folks who stopped by to make a donation towards the school supplies drive and those who made cash donations.

LCHA’s preservation party to celebrate local heritage

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LCHA’s annual Preservation Party is held rain or shine on the grounds of the Pownalborough Court House, in Dresden. All are invited to join in the fun for a purpose. (photo by Bob Bond)

Lincoln County can be justly proud of the people who have contributed to the rich and colorful history of this region. Evidence of this pride can be found in local historical societies like Lincoln County Historical Association (LCHA), whose members are passionate about maintaining important buildings and educating the public about our unique heritage.

Each year LCHA seeks to share stories of the people and places from our past in ways that are accessible and fun.The annual Preservation Party at the Pownalborough Court House in Dresden is one such opportunity in which we celebrate our roots while we raise funds for education and for preservation of the artifacts and buildings that we hold dear.

All are welcome to join the festivities on Sunday, September 8, for live music, a catered buffet dinner, an auction of fabulous cakes and intriguing experiences, and a raffle of valuable gift cards. This party promises to be a lively, fun, and memorable way to be part of a celebration of local heritage.

Tickets are available online at lincolncountyhistory.org. Please direct any questions to Shannon Gilmore, Executive Director, at lchamaine1954@gmail.com or 207-882-6817.

WINDSOR: Lengthy discussion on police presence in town

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by The Town Line staff

One of the major topics at the August 13 meeting of the Windsor Select Board was the presence, or lack thereof, of state police in town.

Sheriff Ken Mason of the Kennebec County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that over the years state police have been seen less patrolling within the town of Windsor and surrounding towns. The sheriff’s departmenthas been back filling with more units to cover the area. Town Manager Theresa Haskell said she knows the town of China and other towns use Kennebec County Sheriff’s deputies for additional patrols. Mason noted that some towns, large and small, do budget it and they offer that service. William Appel Jr. asked Mason about his opinion regarding a constable. That subject was briefly discussed.

In other business, Dr. Timothy Pieh presented a handout and reviewed information about the MD3 pilot program for Kennebec County. There was a lengthy presentation about the program and what it has offered surrounding communities in the past eight months. Dr.Pieh reviewed the number of call, the types of calls they respond to and how it has impacted the communities, rescue teams and the hospitals.

– There was discussion about the Landworks Lane signs on Griffin Road. Public Works Supervisor Keith Hall showed the sign to the select board. Darcy and Alan Aronson approved the sign and placement, as did the select board.
– Haskell noted that Allison Chase, who currently works at the transfer station will be stepping up as intrim supervisor.
– Haskell handed out the monthly transfer station report. July was up from last year at this time by $989.90, making the overall total $9,821.80.
– The town received a check from Grimmel Industries in the amount of $1,090 for metal reimbursement.
– Theresa Haskell was appointed primary for KVCOG Assembly and Chester D. Barnes to be alternate for KVCOG Assembly.
– Chester D.Barnes Jr. and Thomas McNaughten were revoked as Conservation Commission Committee members when it was discovered the members of the select board could not be members of the commission, per ordinance. However, they can still represent the select board as members of the committee.
– The select board is in favor of the bike club to set up a collection area somewhere in the parking lot to collect coats, hats, and mittens.
– There will be a meeting held on Monday, September 16, to discuss the proposed Mineral Extraction Ordinance. The performance bond for Coutt’s WindsorSolar LLC was discussed briefly. Windsor resident Tom Reed asked if there was a decommision plan in place for the solar farm. The answer was yes.
– Select board member Andrew Ballantyne reported he received an email stating that the town of Windsor is being considered as part of a series title “Best Manager Cities in Maine, under 10,000 population. He stated it is quite an accomplishment and will be displayed in magazines throughout Maine.
– Ballantyne also mentioned the outside classroom building at the Windsor elementary School still needs to be finished. He is always happy to help and would love to see other parents or community members pitch in and help. The information he has been given states the building needs roofing donw, and the supplies are on site.
– William Appel Jr. asked about some messages pertaining to marijuana that had been posted on the Windsor Community page on Facebook. In short, Moira Teekema responded by saying residents who have questions should attend a select board meeting with questions and concerns.
– The new public works truck has been purchased for $72,716. The town should gain possession of the vehicle in November.

Vassalboro stanchions a state experiment

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by Mary Grow

Until Nov. 1, East Vassalboro Village will be the site of an experiment aimed at slowing traffic. Aware that it could also make roads impassable for large farm equipment, town officials have provided what they hope will be a remedy.

Temporary PVC stanchions have been placed along roads’ white lines, and in places along the center double lines, on all sides of the four-way intersection in the village: Route 32 running north and south, Bog Road to the west and South Stanley Hill Road to the east. Maine Department of Transportation Engineers expect most vehicles obeying the speed limit to pass between them safely.

However, if farm equipment is more than 11-feet wide, its operator will need to find an alternate route or ask the town’s public works crew to move one or more stanchions. The public works department is open Mondays through Thursdays; crew members need three business days’ notice to move stanchions; the telephone number is 923-3985, and the email address is publicworks@vassalboro.net.

Town officials urge motorists not to run into or over the stanchions. The town will have to pay to replace any that get broken.

Residents with additional or alternative ideas for enforcing safe speeds are invited to submit them to the East Vassalboro Village Project Team, through an email to Town Manager Aaron Miller, amiller@vassalboro.net.

Window Dressers create affordable window inserts

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Volunteers hard at work assembling insulated window inserts. (photo by Roberta Barnes)

by Roberta Barnes

Our nights becoming chilly is a reminder to begin preparing for winter.

One of the first places to focus on is your windows.

While replacement energy efficient windows might not fit into your budget, insulating window inserts are affordable and assembling them with others can be enjoyable.

Last November I was one of the people who, after having windows measured by volunteers from WindowDressers, joined others like me, and volunteers, from China, Vassalboro, Windsor and Albion at the Vassalboro Mill to assemble insulating window inserts.

Together we securely assembled wooden frames, covered each side of the frame with strong clear plastic, and added foam edges.

The strong plastic securely sealed on all sides of the frame forms the pocket of insulating air that can help to keep your home warm.

While completing each insulating window insert requires the correct equipment, materials, instruction, and time, the atmosphere was so enjoyable that people volunteered for extra shifts.

This year the location in Vassalboro has changed and there is also a location in Waterville which can be seen on the WindowDressers website.

Today you can either request window inserts by filling out the form online on the website https://windowdressers.org/ or sign up to volunteer.

In Maine you can also call (207) 596-3073. The deadline for signing up for inserts is September 15, 2024.

The cost for these insulting window inserts is kept affordable by the donations and volunteers helping to assemble the inserts.

You can estimate the cost of the inserts on the windowdressers.org website. There is also a low or no-pay Special Rate Program where you pay what you can afford.

You can discuss paying for your inserts with the person or people from WindowDressers when they come out to measure the windows.

There may be a limit of 10 inserts for this Special Rate Program.

The deadline for signing up to receive the window inserts for this winter 2024/2025 is September 15, 2024.

It is best if you go online today at https://windowdressers.org/, or call (207) 596-3073. Doing this can help you keep the chilly air outside your windows and enjoy being one of the people assembling the inserts in a friendly upbeat atmosphere.

(photo by Roberta Barnes)