Tufts University, in Medford, Massachusetts, recently announced the dean’s list for the Spring 2024 semester.
They are Cole Bazakas, Class of 2027, of Waterville, and Bella Wallingford, Class of 2026, of Oakland.
by Jayne WintersAs noted in last month’s article, rehabber Don Cote at Duck Pond Wildlife Care Center was hospitalized for a week in late May. I’m relieved and happy to report that his recovery at home is going well and as we expected, it didn’t take long before he started taking calls about orphaned and injured critters. In fact, we recently purchased a new answering machine with a volume enhancer so he doesn’t miss any!
Although he isn’t admitting wildlife for extended care, he will continue to answer questions, provide advice and make referrals to other wildlife rehabbers. Duck Pond is now serving primarily as a drop-off site for folks to bring in the small injured or abandoned wildlife they’ve found, with other rehabbers coming by almost daily to transport the animals to their own facilities for additional treatment and care. Duck Pond prefers not to accept fawns, but Don can help people connect with and/or coordinate transfer with nearby rehabbers.
Currently, there are two fox kits in an outside pen that will be released together later this summer. A gray squirrel that had come into contact with a ‘hot’ CMP wire seemed to be improving, but sadly suffered a couple of seizures and did not survive. On a happier note, a young woodchuck (uninjured, but apparently orphaned and raiding a garden) that had been housed in an open tote in Don’s kitchen made great progress this past week, moving on from syringed electrolytes and proteins to solid foods, including fresh dandelion greens and clover. “Woody” was just released and will be busy tasting other items on Mother Nature’s menu!
I think I can safely say that as he nears his 87th birthday, Don is now semi-retired. Being a wildlife rehabber has been a way of life for him for over 50 years and his commitment to care for critters will never go away. Taking care of even a couple of squirrels or chipmunks is part of his daily routine and gives him a sense of purpose, which we all need, no matter our age.
Don has been working primarily with the following wildlife rehabbers: Misfits Rehab, in Auburn (207-212-1039; FYI, Jen accepts bats and mice), Wilderness Miracles, in Bowdoin (207-720-0074), Bridget Green, in Wiscasset (207-631-0874), Critterville Wildlife, in Brooklin (845-549-2407), and Saco River Wildlife (207-702-1405). Mid-coast Maine has a newly-licensed turtle rehabber! Pam Meier relocated from Connecticut and can be reached at The Turtle’s Back (203-903-2708). As you can imagine, wildlife rehabbers are inundated with their own rescue calls at this time of year, especially for young animals that require extra feedings and care, and Don greatly appreciates their assistance with Duck Pond rescues. Please remember to check these websites for someone close to you: https://www.mainevetmed.org/wildlife-rehabilitation or https://www.maine.gov/ifw/fish-wildlife/wildlife/living-with-wildlife/orphaned-injured-wildlife/index.html In addition, you can contact your local Animal Control Officer through your town office.
– Donald Cote operates Duck Pond Wildlife Care Center on Rte. 3 in Vassalboro. It is a non-profit state permitted rehab facility supported by his own resources & outside donations. Mailing address: 1787 North Belfast Ave., Vassalboro ME 04989 TEL: (207) 445-4326.
by Roland D. HalleeThis may not have anything to do with nature, but I think it qualifies.
Nothing is more irritating, to me, at least, than walking into a cobweb as I’m exiting the house or camp. So, that prompted the question, what is the difference between a cobweb and a spider web?
The term “spider web” is typically used to refer to a web that is apparently still in use (i.e., clean), whereas “cobweb” refers to a seemingly abandoned (i.e., dusty) web. However, the word “cobweb” is also used by biologists to describe the tangled three-dimensional web of some spiders of the family Theridiidae.
File this one under “T ”, for “Today I Learned….” Despite emitting from the same arachnid derrière, spider webs and cobwebs are not the same thing. Spider webs are the sticky traps spiders set to capture their supper; cobwebs are but a shadow of their former spider web self.
Typically, a cobweb is an abandoned spider web. The sticky silk of a spider web is excellent at catching insects, so naturally, it’s great at collecting dust. This is especially possible in hard-to-reach areas, like ceiling corners, that are infrequently dusted.
Cobwebs are tangled and irregularly designed webs. Spider webs are more elegant and sophistically designed. Cobwebs are also comprised of a different type of silk than the spider web.
Unlike spider webs, which spiders use to catch and trap their prey, cobwebs are vacant “homes” spiders have abandoned to move on to greener pastures – in this case, usually just a new area of your house. The stray spider silk left behind is incredibly sticky and a magnet for pollen, dust particles, and other debris. This is why, when you discover cobwebs, they appear dirty and loose, instead of elastic and tight as a new spider web.
While they may not pose any real danger, these sticky nuisances certainly don’t add to the aesthetics. Moreover, they tend to accumulate dust, making your space feel less inviting. If your house is starting to resemble a spooky Halloween scene with cobwebs adorning every corner, it’s time to take action. Dust and clean your home regularly. This doesn’t allow a spider to build a web. Dusting regularly doesn’t just keep the webs away, but also ensures other insects attracting elements are cleaned from your house, keeping the prey away, also.
If you’re seeing a lot of spiderwebs in and around your home, it’s likely you’ve incurred a pretty sizeable spider infestation. Spiders typically hide until they have no choice but to come out into the open, so there could be a lot more than you think.
Ways to spider-proof your house:
– Lemon peels. Spiders hate the smell of citrus fruits such as lemons, limes and oranges. …
– Peppermint Oil. This makes a surprisingly great, natural bug repellent. …
– Keep your house clutter-free.
– Close windows at night. …
– White vinegar. …
– Limit lights.
Now, this may sound strange, and it might even be directed at some of our friends, since my wife strongly believes Vicks VapoRub can be used for many cures.
Because of this, Vicks VapoRub is the perfect deterrent – it uses eucalyptus and menthol to open your nasal passages, which is much too strong of a scent for an arachnid. In addition to peppermint, which was mentioned earlier, you can try using essential oils like lavender, eucalyptus, or citrus, as spiders tend to dislike these scents. You can create a homemade spider-repellent spray by mixing a few drops of these essential oils with water and applying it to spider-prone areas.
The smell of cinnamon also repels these arachnids. Spiders prefer to maintain a fair distance away from them. Ultimately, cinnamon oil will also fight other insects and keep them away, so it’s not for spiders only. Mix cinnamon oil with water, dip a cotton ball in, then wipe the mixture in spider-prone areas.
How about moth balls? My wife and I use them liberally when closing up camp in the fall to discourage mice from entering the shelter. Contrary to what many believe, these moth balls really work. So…
As the mothball disintegrates, the chemical is released into the air. The foul scent that is released becomes a spider repellent and gets rid of spiders. They are repelled by this naturally occurring scent. With that being said, spiders will avoid mothballs at all costs.
Will dryer sheets work? Dryer sheets are rumored to protect against much more than static cling. But there is no scientific research to back up these claims.
Finally, my wife and I use small electronic devices to discourage spiders from entering our camp. You can buy them at The Home Depot, Tractor Supply, Agway and Aubuchon Hardware. They are small plug-ins that have a small blinking red light, and the sound of a “tick” every few seconds. They work very well.
So, we’ve learned quite a bit about spiders, their webs and repellants today. Now, if you’re not a fan of spiders, like I, get to work.
What “curse” prevented the Red Sox winning the World Series for 85 years?.
by André ChasséWhen Maine set out to develop a way to make retirement savings accessible to more workers, it was somewhat of a “field of dreams” moment for all those who had advocated for the Work & Save program including AARP Maine. We knew that access to an employer-based retirement plan would be critical for building financial security. In addition, with roughly 40% of Maine’s private sector employees having no way to save for retirement on the job, we believed a solution was needed to our state’s retirement savings crisis. However, as we entered the final stages of implementation, we found ourselves asking: if we build it, will they save?
The answer is a resounding “yes.” I am delighted to share that more Mainers have started building a secure financial future for themselves by saving for retirement, thanks to the notable success of the Maine Retirement Investment Trust (MERIT). In a landmark achievement, MERIT recently announced that Maine employees have collectively saved an impressive one million dollars for their retirement within just six months of its statewide launch in January of this year. This milestone reflects the commitment and hard work of both the program and the participants as they strive to build a stable financial future for themselves and their families.
MERIT was created in 2021 by the Work and Save Bill, sponsored by Senator Eloise Vitelli, to improve access to retirement savings programs. The public-private retirement savings option was established to provide an efficient and transparent retirement savings option for the over 200,000 workers in Maine who do not have access to a workplace retirement savings plan.
The initiative has proven to be a critical step toward promoting responsibility and long-term planning for Maine workers. By providing a streamlined enrollment process, MERIT enables employers to offer a valuable tool that significantly enhances employee satisfaction and financial security. MERIT allows workers to set their own contribution percentage. There is no cost or match requirement for employers. Funds are invested in a Roth IRA that employees can take with them from job to job. Through the MERIT portal at meritsaves.com, employees can change their contribution percentage, view and change investment options and identify their beneficiaries.
MERIT addresses a vital need for Maine residents who face uncertainty about their retirement savings. Retirement savings options that help workers become savers are needed now more than ever. According to an AARP survey conducted earlier this year, one in five Americans 50-plus have no retirement savings, and over half worry that their savings won’t last in retirement.
Until now, too many workers in Maine have not had access to a retirement savings account at work, leaving them unprepared for the future. But with the recently met MERIT savings benchmark, we have a million reasons to believe that together, we can bridge this gap and ensure a more secure future for Maine’s workers.
The late Selma Pulcifur
The R.B. Hall Memorial Band will present an outdoor concert at Waterfront Park, in Oakland, on Tuesday, August 13, at 6 p.m., to honor Selma Pulcifur, who passed away in December.
Selma was an institution, both in her community and among the countless musicians who were privileged to have known her over the years. She was the last surviving charter member of the R. B. Hall Memorial Band, where she played trombone for 55 years and served in various offices, including president.
In 2019, on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the band, Selma recounted in an interview that she began playing in 1944 when a friend told her the school band director needed a trombone. Selma laughed, “And I said, “What’s a trombone?” Selma fondly recalled, “I tried this old trombone, and, oh, it had the most beautiful tone, and I just fell in love with it.”
Selma played trombone for over 75 years, last performing with the R.B. Hall Band in the summer of 2022 at the Clinton Fair, a long-standing tradition and her favorite.
“I have to admit I’m getting older, but get me in a chair and I can play. I still have lots of wind. It’s natural.”
Sadly, the hot weather prevented her from performing at the fair in 2023, as she had hoped to do.
Selma’s final words in the interview were “I just hope I never have to give up the band. It’s been a very important part of my life.”
In gratitude for her contribution to keeping the community band tradition alive in Maine, the annual R.B. Hall Day festival, held in Bridgton this year, was dedicated to Selma.
The August 13 concert is free of charge. Audience members are asked to bring a lawn chair.
(The 2019 interview by Central Maine Newspapers is available on YouTube: “Selma Pulsifer plays on…”)
Elizabeth Daisey pins the Eagle Scout medal on her son’s uniform. (photo by Chuck Mahaleris)
Nick Gower, of Anson, received the Eagle Scout rank, the highest award in Scouting, during a ceremony held on July 13 at the Garret Schenck School. His Eagle Scout project was a benefit to the American Legion. The Tardiff-Belanger American Legion Post in Madison has a new, custom-made fire pit for the proper retirement of United States flags that have become faded, ripped or worn. “I am so proud of Nick,” said Troop #481 Scoutmaster Darlene Taylor, of Starks.
Nick Gower’s Eagle Scout project. (photo by Chuck Mahaleris)
“Every challenge that has come your way, you have conquered. Your project has been used to honor our nation’s flag. What a worthy project.”
“America has many good things to give you and your children after you; but these good things depend for the most part on the quality of its citizens,” said fellow Troop #481 Eagle Scout Devyn DeLeonardis who received his Eagle medal last December. “Our country has a great past. You can help make sure it has an even greater future. I charge you to undertake your citizenship with solemn dedication. Be a leader, but lead only towards the best. Lift every task you do and every office you hold to the highest levels of service to God and your fellow man.”
Speaking about Nick, Skip Pond, who served as Master of Ceremonies, said, “I have shown the whole world that Scouting is in my heart. I have mastered the knowledge of subjects that will benefit my country and my fellow man.”
Nick received congratulatory letters from local and national political officials and also from leaders of veterans organizations such as the Marine Corps League and the American Legion. Patricia “Tricia” Thurston, Commander of the Department of Maine American Legion, attended and presented Nick with a replica Eagle feather and a certificate from the organization.
Nick’s mother, Elizabeth Daisey, pinned the Eagle medal on her son’s uniform and he in turn presented her with roses and the Mother’s Pin for her support of his Scouting efforts. Nick also presented his father, Dustin Gower, with an Eagle Scout Father’s Pin.
Scoutmaster Taylor added, “Nicholas, I am so proud of you and all you have accomplished in Boy Scouts. It was a wonderful experience climbing this mountain with you. Now spread your wings and fly!”
Lindsey Cameron, of Waterville, was installed as president of the Rotary Club of Waterville during the club’s meeting on July 15, 2024, at Best Western Plus, in Waterville. Also installed were President-elect Michele Prince, Sarah Wadick, Treasurer, and Secretary Buffy Higgins.
In addition, the following members will serve on the club’s board of directors:
Doug Carnrick, Sergeant-at-arms, John Dalton, Community Service Chairman, Tom Shupe, Foundation Committee Chairman, Jordyn Woodard, Public Relations Committee Chairman, Jim Chapman, Ways & Means Committee Chairman, Jennifer Casey, Membership Committee Chairman, Roger Crouse and Hannah Bard, Administrative Committee Co-Chairmen, Karen Normandin, Vocational Services Chairman, and Ken Vlodek, International Service Chairman.
The immediate past president is Dan Eccher. He will continue to serve on the club board for the next year.
Prior to this appointment Lindsey Cameron served as Interim Membership Chairman. She has actively participated in the club’s annual Radio Auction decorating committee chairman, helping organize and execute the Spring Auction and Social, as well as attended PETS and was on the Committee for District Governor (2023-2024) Tina Chapman’s District 7790 Conference this past June.
For the 2024/2025-year Rotary’s theme is “The Magic of Rotary” which is a call for Rotary to create hope in the world by working for peace and mental wellbeing.
The Rotary Club of Waterville supports community projects such as support of local food pantries, college scholarships, Mid-Maine Homeless Shelter, Rhoda Reads Early Literacy Program, and trail maintenance of local hiking trails. The club raises money for projects by the two annual auctions, one online in the Fall with radio promotion and the other in the Spring with a Live and Silent Auction.
“People in our local communities and around the world need help overcoming problems and challenges,” said Lindsey. “Our club passionately engages in service above self by leveraging member talents and club resources to help people and communities thrive, prosper and grow”.
The Rotary Club of Waterville, on Facebook at Waterville Rotary Club and Instagram at @waterville_rotary, welcomes new members who, as people of action, seek to volunteer their skills and resources to solve issues and address community needs. Information about becoming a member is available at watervillerotary.com/ or by attending the weekly meeting at noon on Mondays, at the Best Western Plus Hotel, in Downtown Waterville, 375 Main Street, Waterville, ME 04901.
OAKLAND – Timothy S. Trask, 65, passed away suddenly on Monday, July 8, 2024. Tim was born January 29, 1959, to Stacy U. Trask and Carolyn L. (Treat) Trask, of Oakland.
He was raised in a large, blended family that helped nurture his love of sports. His love of basketball in particular, along with his natural talent, earned him three varsity letters, a Most Valuable Player trophy, a captain’s pin, and many other honors, before graduating in 1977 from Messalonskee High School, in Oakland.
After time served in the U.S. Army National Guard, and then the U.S. Army, Tim returned to Oakland. He had various jobs over the years, but for the last 25 years he was self- employed, as well as managing two apartment buildings. Tim was the go-to person for so many, and not just his big, extensive family. If you needed your lawn done, a house painted, or locks changed, he was there.
Tim loved a good laugh, and a good meal. Many memories were made on snowmobiling trips, smelting, fishing, and boating on Snow Pond [Messalonskee Lake] where he rented a camp with Valerie and Tina. He was hilarious, and especially loved making his sisters laugh, often ending with the girls in trouble. He loved a good card game, and trips to the casinos with Dave and Dee. He was a die-hard Kansas City Chief’s fan, as well as the Boston Red Sox and Celtics. Above all, he was a kindhearted man, and loved time with his family.
He was predeceased by both parents; siblings Daniel Trask, Donald Trask, Tanness (Trask) Smith, Alexis Trask, Terry Trask, and Anthony Cocco Jr.; nephew Stacy Trask; brother-in-law Marshall Roy.
Tim is survived by son William McKinnon with his wife Malinda and grandsons Trenton and Tyler, all of Brunswick; brother David Trask of Bath; sisters Linda (Cocco) Roy, of Winslow, Cheryl (Cocco) Michaud with husband Jerry, of Cincinnati, Ohio, Tina (Trask) Boag with husband David, of Oakland, and Valerie (Trask) Paul with husband, John of Oro Valley, Arizona; along with several nieces and nephews with their spouses and families.
A private ceremony will be held Saturday, August 10, 2024, for the family. Please join them at the American Legion, in Oakland, at noon to share some laughs and stories while enjoying some snacks. Just as Tim would have loved.
Please visit Tim’s memorial page at https://dsfuneral.com/obituaries/timothy-trask where condolences, photos, and special memories may be shared.
WINSLOW – Paul Emile Roy, 81, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, July 15, 2024, in Waterville. Born on August 9, 1942, in Saint-Georges-de-Beauce, Québec, Canada, Paul moved to Waterville at the age of 12 and made the United States his home for the remainder of his life.
Paul’s professional life was marked by an incredible work ethic, meticulous attention to detail, and his belief that one’s word and integrity were as important as the work itself. He began his career at C.H. Vigue & Sons, in Winslow, as a lumberyard manager before honing his skills in sheet rocking and drywalling at Pepin Drywall, Inc., in Augusta. His entrepreneurial spirit found him venturing out on his own leading to the establishment of Kennebec Drywall, Inc., and later, New England Fireproofing. Even after retirement, Paul continued to lend his expertise to commercial construction projects as an estimator and consultant.
Paul was happiest when surrounded by his family and was so incredibly proud of his daughters and grandchildren. He was a man of many interests. He played hockey, softball and golf. His love of nature made fishing and hunting particularly enjoyable when they involved peaceful walks that allowed him to appreciate the surrounding beauty. Those who knew Paul knew they could count on his humor. His wit was characterized by impeccable timing, accompanied by a dry delivery spoken with his Canadian accent, and it will be missed tremendously. He cherished the annual vacations the family spent together at Kokatosi Campground and loved reminiscing about all those special memories.
He leaves behind his wife, Elaine Booth Roy; his daughters, Renee Roy-DePeter (Tom DePeter), Rachel Spenard (John Spenard), Michelle Roy, Nicole Roy, and Danielle Roy (Mark Michaud); and step-children Amanda Ovington and Joshua Mooers; grandchildren, Emilia DePeter, Christopher (Ashley) Spenard, Michelle (Anthony) Boudreau, Phineas Roy-Ollie, Chloe Tobin, Jake Tobin, Dylan Tobin, Jack Roy-Becker, George Roy-Becker, Katherine Roy-Becker, Holden and Dexter Ovington; great-grandchild, Caden Spenard; sisters, Olivette Roy Gariepy and Denise Roy, and his former wife, Lucille Roy, with whom he maintained a lifelong friendship; many nieces and nephews.
Paul was preceded in death by his parents, Emile Roy and Marie-Blanche Drouin Roy; siblings, Fleurette Roy Chouinard, Monique Roy, Angelo Roy, Marcel Roy Poulin, Michele Roy Dufault, and Remi Roy.
A gathering to honor and celebrate Paul’s life will be held at Veilleux Funeral Home, in Waterville, on Saturday, August 10, 2024, from 10 a.m. – noon. A reception will follow at a location to be determined.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation, on Paul’s behalf, to one of his favorite charities: Maine Health Barbara Bush Children’s Hospital at mainehealth.org or Good Shepard Food Bank at giving.gsfb.org.
WATERVILLE – Jane K. Leighton, 92, a resident of Waterville, died Friday, July 19, 2024, in Scarborough, following a brief illness. She was born October 1, 1931, in Greenville, the daughter of David L. and Lucy B. Knowlton.
After graduating from Greenville High School, she attended the University of Maine for two years, then transferred to Cornell University – New York Hospital School of Nursing, in New York City, where she earned a B.S. degree in nursing in 1955. Immediately after graduation, she worked at New York Hospital for three years, where she became a head nurse in the obstetrics department.
She then returned to Maine and married Albert K. (“Bart”) Leighton, on August 16, 1958. They settled in Waterville in 1962 to raise their family. She worked as a registered nurse at both Thayer and Seton hospitals, in Waterville, through the latter half of the 1960s, whereupon she shifted her primary focus to raising her children.
Jane loved to bake, a craft she picked up during childhood in her family’s bakery in Greenville. There were always freshly baked bread, cookies, rolls and doughnuts at the Leighton house – to the delight of visitors to her home. A favorite activity was picking blueberries in August, and her family enjoyed blueberry pies and muffins year-round as there were always hand-picked blueberries in the freezer. She learned to cook at her family’s restaurant and relished finding fresh produce to serve with home-cooked meals made from scratch every day to her family. She was also an avid reader and writer, either in her personal journals or letters to her children when away at camps or college. She stressed in her children core values such as compassion, hard work, and education – leading by example with her loving ways.
Jane was a very caring person and formed many strong bonds and special relationships with friends too numerous to name in the Morrill Avenue neighborhood and beyond. Over the years, she was a regular volunteer at the sandwich program hosted by the local churches, as well as at MaineGeneral Medical Center – Thayer Unit, in Waterville.
She was predeceased by her husband, who died in 2005, as well as by her sister, Virginia K. Fowle, and her brother, John D. Knowlton.
She is survived by a daughter, Martha, of New York, New York; sons Michael and wife, Karen Dostaler, and her grandson Aiden, of Saco, Andrew and wife, Julie, of Dudley, Massachusetts, Mark, of Manassas, Virginia, and John of Brooklyn, New York; her sisters-in-law Elizabeth Leighton Davis and her husband Robert, of Holden, Massachusetts, and fellow nursing school classmate, Carol Nash Knowlton, of Meredith, New Hampshire; as well as several nieces and nephews.
Services will be held, on Wednesday, July 24, at Wheeler Funeral Home, 26 Church Street, Oakland. Friends and family are invited to join visiting hours beginning at 9 a.m.; the service will begin at 10 a.m. A private burial service will take place later in the day at the Greenville Cemetery.
Memorial donations may be made to The Moosehead Historical Society & Museums, 444 Pritham Avenue, P.O. Box 1116, Greenville, ME 04441.
CHELSEA – Robert G. Boynton, 77, of Chelsea, passed away at his home on Saturday, July 20, 2024. He was born on August 21, 1946, the son of Perley and Marie Boynton.
Robert grew up in Jefferson and graduated from Lincoln Academy in 1964. He served in the U.S. Army from 1966-1968.
On August 23, 1969, he married Deanna Collins, of Chelsea. They would have been married 55 years in August.
Robert owned and operated Boynton’s Remodeling from 1975-2003.
He enjoyed hunting, camping, bird watching, and spending winters in Florida during his retirement years. Robert had a knack for finding four leaf clovers and sharing them with loved ones.
He was predeceased by parents; his brothers, Francis, Roger, and Dennis; and his sister, Pauline.
He is survived by his wife Deanna, of Chelsea; son, Robert and his wife Amy, of Jefferson; daughter, Tammy Staples, of Boca Raton, Florida; grandchildren, Marisa and Dylan Staples, of Gardiner, and Robin and Madeline Boynton, of Jefferson; brothers Linwood, of Hertford, North Carolina, Lawrence and Earland, of Jefferson; a sister Margaret, of Winslow; and many nieces and nephews.
A gathering of friends and family will be held at their home in Chelse,a on Saturday, July 27, at 11 a.m.
WHITEFIELD – Theresa (Shorey) Morin, 57, passed away on Saturday, June 15, 2024, following a long courageous battle with cancer. She was born on September 23, 1966, to Randall and Elaine Shorey.
Theresa is survived by her son, Brian Shorey; her siblings Randy, Marilynn, Pauline, Roger, Michelle, and Louis; husband Peter Morin and his extended family.
A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, July 31, 2024, at 3 p.m., at Plummers Funeral Home, 16 Pleasant Street, Augusta, Maine.
KNIGHTDALE, N.C. / OAKLAND – David Wayne Ayer passed away peacefully on March 23, 2024, while receiving care at the Mayo Clinic, in Jacksonville, Florida, from a rare cancer, which he courageously battled. He was born in Fort Lee, Virginia, to Anna and Stanton Ayer, who are previously deceased.
David was a deeply devoted Christian and had an immense faith in God. He taught others so much about God’s Word. He continues to be a beautiful light in so many peoples’ lives.
David served in the U.S. Army as a medic and later advanced his nursing degree to RN, BSN. He was very devoted and passionate, working for Veterans Affairs, which is where he met the love of his life, Kathy, who also was an RN, on the same unit. David devoted 38 years to serving the veterans and their families, which he truly loved. He had a calm and peaceful presence about him, which people were drawn to. He was a strong leader and was compassionate and kind, which showed throughout his life. His career took him from the East Coast to the West Coast. He finished his career at the Raleigh, North Carolina, CBOC Clinic. All were like family to him and Kathy. He was truly blessed to work with such a loving and caring group of people, especially, his manager Haisley.
He always looked forward to his vacations with Kathy and Daisy, their little westie, as they headed up to Oakland to go to their camp on McGrath Pond to spend fun times with their children and grandchildren. He loved taking Daisy in the kayak. It was relaxing for him. Many wonderful times were shared.
David is survived by his wife, Katherine Quinn Ayer, sharing 24 years together; children, Alice (Nick), of California, and Tyler (Alyssa), of Maine, Travis (Kirstie), of Florida; grandchildren, Isabelle, Sebastian, Astrid, Kinsley and Korey; Daisy; sister, Linda Denny (Wayne); and other family relatives.
Predeceased by parents Anna and Stanton Ayer; and brother, Michael Ayer.
David was given a beautiful church service on April 3, Celebration of Life organized by his Nurse Manager Haisley Hunter, of the Raleigh 1 CBOC, at the Durham, North Carolina, VA Hospital.
Graveside service will be at the Maine Veterans Cemetery, on Friday, August 9, at 1 p.m., in section B, located at 163 Mount Vernon Rd., Augusta, ME 04330. A Celebration of Life will follow the service at Lucky Garden, in Hallowell.
WHITEFIELD – Craig A. Chubbuck died peacefully at his home in Whitefield. Craig was born May 14, 1946, in Bangor, the eldest of ten children and only son of Howard C. Chubbuck and Leona J. Chubbuck, who previously deceased.
He will be laid to rest at the family plot in Orrington. The family will hold a Celebration of Life at a future date.
First Place Gross Team Score, Mid-Maine Marine, from left to right, Rob Moody, Garret Prelgovisk, Scott McManaman, Drew Glasheen. (contributed photo)
Central Maine’s most prize-laden golf tournament fundraiser was held on Monday, June 17, at Waterville Country Club. Thirty-six teams took part in the shotgun start scramble.
Nearly 50 businesses provided sponsorships or in-kind donations for the tournament.
“We were thrilled with the participation in this year’s event once again,” said Kim Lindlof, president & CEO of Mid-Maine Chamber of Commerce. “We were also happy that the weather cooperated, with a beautiful Chamber of Commerce day of nice breezes and an enjoyable day of golf for all involved.”
Prize winners were as follows:
50/50 Winner: Cameron Gartley and Martha Wentworth – Central Maine Power Co. Allen Insurance & Financial.
First Place Gross Team Score: Mid-Maine Marine – Rob Moody, Garret Prelgovisk, Scott McManaman, Drew Glasheen.
Second Place Gross Team Score: Milestone Funeral Partners – TJ Smart, Matt Parent, Bob Allen, Mark Parent.
Third Place Gross Team Score: Valley Beverage – Mike Crowell, Mark Bradford, Jake Gerow, Ken Stinchfield.
First Place Net Team Score: New York Life Insurance – Alan Cobb, Joe Gilliland, Cliff Hannon, Gary Levesque.
Second Place Net Team Score: Allen Insurance & Financial – Mike Rankin, James Sanborn, Cameron Gartley, Dave Sanborn.
Third Place Net Team Score: Coldwell Banker Plourde Real Estate – Mark Ford, Ted Helberg, Don Plourde, Jamie Plourde.
Longest Drive: Scott McManaman – Mid-Maine Marine.
Straightest Drive: John O’Neil – Bar Harbor Bank & Trust.
Closest to the Pin: Hole #2: Chris Dow – Dow’s Quick Stop.
Closest to the Pin: Hole #6: Male: Gary Levesque – New York Life Insurance; Female: Deb Whalen – Nicholson, Michaud & Company.
Closest to the Pin – Hole #13: Male: Cliff Hannon – New York Life Insurance; Female: Jennifer Seekins – Bar Harbor Bank & Trust.
Closest to the Pin — Hole #16: Lewis McEacharn – Paul White Company.
Highest Team Score: Boulet Group
Chairman of the Chamber Golf Classic Committee, Gary Levesque added, “We would like to thank the staff at Waterville Country Club, and all the area businesses for their participation whether with posting a team, providing volunteers or in-kind donations, or being a sponsor. Your support makes this a successful fundraiser.”
The Mid-Maine Chamber Golf Classic is made possible by major sponsors Central Maine Power and Maine State Credit Union and multiple additional sponsors.
First Place Net Team Score, New York Life Insurance, from left to right, Alan Cobb, Joe Gilliland, Cliff Hannon, Gary Levesque. (contributed photo)
by The Town Line staffAt the beginning of the June 18 Windsor Select Board meeting, Town Manager Theresa Haskell said the first order of business was to elect a board chairman.
The first count was Thomas McNaughton, two votes, William Appel Jr., two votes and Chester D. Barnes, one vote. A second vote gave Appel three votes and became the board’s new chairman.
Town Assessor Vern Ziegler introduced Nichole Stenberg from Dirigo Assessing who will be the town’s new assessor’s agent. Stenberg worked for Maine Revenue Service in the past and has over 20 years of experience in property tax.
Road Supervisor Keith Hall reported there was money left in the roadside mowing account and will be having Chris Pierce and Nathan Northrup do sections in town. They use different equipment and have different pricing options. Hall also reported the Amish signs have been put in place.
Talks with Lucas Striping indicated the price will be the same as last year: $.07 for white lines, and $.14 for double yellow lines per foot.
Scott Peaslee will be doing the job on the transfer station wall at a cost of $12,000.
Julia Hartwell appeared before the board to ask that a container be allowed at the town office for Boy Scout Pack #609 to collect bottles as a fundraiser. The board approved with the stipulation that it be placed in a location that would not interfere with plowing during the winter.
David Landmann expressed an interest in being a regular member of the planning board for a three-year term.
The board also approved several appointments. Kim Bolduc-Bartlett at back up animal control officer to 2025; Richard H. Gray Jr. and Thomas Reed, to 2027, Cemetery Committee members, Robert Holt and Laurie Thomas to 2027, board of appeals members; Bonnie Squiers and Heather Wilson to 2027, Windsor Educational Foundation and Reed Fund member; Chester D. Barnes Sr. and Adrian Prindle to 2027, Conservation Commission Committee member; Katherine Johnson to 2025, tax collecter; and David Landmann to 2027, planning board member.
Ryan Carver was appointed animal control officer for one year, and Arthur Strout was appointed as building inspector for one year.
Dwight Tibbetts is interested in holdinjg a benefit concert for the American Lung Association in the town hall. There was much discussion on the building use policy and concerns about the limit of 75 people. This was tabled to the next meeting.
Chairman Appel received an anonymous letter from a group called Concerned Citizens of Windsor regarding some concerns they have within the town. Thomas McNaughton said he welcomes comments, while Chester D. Barnes Jr. said he felt threatened. Appel invited anyone with concerns to attend a select board meeting and encourages the involvement to address these conerns with the board members.
Appel said he received a letter from McKee Morgan Law Firm regarding an incorrect designation of a road name, “Landworks Lane”, and would like to have this on the agenda for the next meeting to include all parties involved, including the codes enforcement officer, Arthur Strout, and assistant codes enforcement officer Greg Feltis.
Appel also said the planning board has been getting new site plan review applications and there has been discussion of possibly some solar farm applications, and there would be some training involved.
Finally, Barnes asked when a meeting will be set up with C. B. Haskell Fuel Co., Inc., regarding the town hall heat pumps. According to Haskell, they have been contacted and is waiting for them to set up a date.
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At a special board of selectmen meeting on June 27, Town Manager Theresa Haskell indicated that it looks like the transfer station budget will come up short and that money will need to be moved to cover.
The select board also accepted the resignation of transfer station committee member Barbara Seaver-West.
Most of the rest of the meeting was spent when transfer station committee chairman John Deeds received a letter from the Concerned Citizens of Windsor Group. He stated he has dealt with threatening letters from the state before and asks that this group come and join the transfer station committee to help them as a group. No time was set for the meeting.
Deeds also asked the select board how they can slow down traffic on Rte. 105 heading towards Somerville. Once they enter Hussey’s intersection, “they are going 80 to 90 mph past his house,” and he is the next house near the Windsor Volunteer Fire Department. The select board said they have no authority to slow down people, but anyone can contact the State Police or Sheriff’s Department. Deeds said he has done that and sometimes they even sit at the WVFD, but nothing happens. Haskell said Patsy Crockett, Commissioner for Kennebec County, will attend the July 30 meeting and that issue can be addressed with her at that time.
Finally, there was discussion about having a policy on how public comment at meetings is overseen, and how to move the meetings along. This was tabled to a future select board meeting.
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At their regular meeting on July 2, the Windsor Select Board reviewed a Department of Transportatin proposal for signs to benefit traffic flow along Rte. 17 – Augusta-Rockland Rd. Town Manager Theresa Haskell gave a handout with a map showing the proposed placement of the signs. DOT will purchase the signs if public works places them in the designated area.
As a following up to Dwight Tibbetts’ request to hold a concern to benefit the American Lung Association at the town hall, a copy of the building use policy was distributed to the board. The policy will be reviewed by the board and discussed at a future meeting.
The town attorney recommended the building at 762 Ridge Road be designated a dangerous building. The owner is not currently living on the property. Codes Enforcement Officer Arthur Strout will submit a letter to the select board to state reasons.
Several residents appeared before the board to express their opinions on the Landworks Lane controversy.
Chris Oberg, Johannah Oberg, and Paul Bernier gave their reasons to keep the name. Bernier indicated he has maintained the road for over 20 years and is running his business off the road. All three state they only followed directions when they were asked by the town to name the road.
However, Alan Aronson, a resident of Griffin Road, stated he owns part of what is now Landworks Lane and that he and his wife, Darcy, had no say in naming the road, saying they were not OK with that.
Following lengthy discussion, the board approved placing signage on Griffin Road near the Landworks Lane Road entrance, from both directions, to direct traffic to Landworks Lane. The road sign Landworks Lane will be moved back to the property line of Paul Bernier, and Johannah and Chris Oberg. There will be no name placed for the right of way beginning at Gtiffin Road at this time as there are no homes on the property to warrant naming the section of road.
Nancy Fish spoke again about concerns of the pit on Hunts Meadow Road that borders her land. Nancy was looking for some clarification of the Site Plan Ordinance for pits. Barnes again suggested she bring her concerns to the planning board. CEO Strout was present and said he can check to see if the pit is less than five acres. If it is more than five acres, the state of Maine would need to be involved with her concerns.
In other business the board approved a McNaughton motion to change the pricing on building permits for residential to $75 plus $.05 per square foot and $150 for commercial plus $.05 per square foot, effective immediately.
Haskell made three more appointments, Dan West as a regular planning board member to 2027, Thomas Leonard as an alternate planning board member to 2026, and Richard H. Gray Jr., as a transfer station committee member to 2026.
The board accepted the resignation of Joshua Briggs from the transfer station.