OBITUARIES for Thursday, July 18, 2024

ELIZABETH GOODWIN

WATERVILLE – Elizabeth Goodwin, 100, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 3, 2024, at Woodlands Senior Living- ALF, in Waterville. Born in Portland on April 16, 1924, she was raised in Vassalboro as the daughter of the late Merle and Pauline (Libby) Cole and sister of the late Phyllis (Cole) Albee.

After graduation from Cony High School, in Augusta, she received her B.S. in English at the University of Maine at Machias. She taught at the Little Red School House, in New York City, New York, and earned her M.S. in English at Hunter College.

She retired in 1990 as an administrative assistant at the McBurney YMCA, in New York City, New York. After retirement, she returned to Maine, living for many years in Portland. She was a member of the American Association of University Women, Delta Theta Sorority, the College Club of Portland, and the Cathedral Church of St. Luke, where she was an active member of St. Martha’s Guild and the Altar Guild.

She enjoyed many seasons of Portland Stage Company’s productions, traveled extensively around the world and remained lifelong friends with many of her fellow travelers.

She is survived by her niece and nephews and their families.

No services will be held. Burial will be at a future date at the Union Cemetery, in Vassalboro.

Donations in her memory may be made to the charity of one’s choice.

BRUCE S. FIFIELD

WINDSOR – Bruce Sanborn Fifield, passed away on Thursday, July 4, 2024. Born to Madge and Henry Fifield, Bruce was raised in Rockland.

He was the big brother to his sister and four brothers. Bruce attended Rockland schools, graduating in the class of 1961. As a young man, Bruce played basketball on his high school team, learned to golf, caddied at the Samoset Resort, in Rockport, and loved reading, writing and listening to music.

Bruce moved to Florida after graduation and later attended Cambridge School of Business and Broadcasting near Boston, Massachusetts. He eventually returned to Maine where he enjoyed a long career in hospitality management. Multiple Maine establishments benefited greatly from Bruce’s professional expertise and kind, respectful demeanor, including the Augusta Elks Lodge, The Augusta Civic Center and Guido’s Wine Cellar Restaurant.

Bruce lived a life marked by kindness and service. He was a loving soul who treated everyone he encountered with decency and dignity. In doing so, he set a great example for others, most importantly his children and grandchildren. Bruce loved spending time with his family, whether it was enjoying a backyard barbeque or watching the game on TV. A lifelong Boston sports fan, Bruce followed his beloved Red Sox, Patriots and Celtics with enthusiasm. Bruce also loved music, Willie Nelson in particular, and he enjoyed recounting stories about his experiences watching live music. More than anything else, Bruce loved spending his days with his true love and soulmate, Linda.

Bruce was a proud member of several fraternal organizations, through which he selflessly dedicated himself to the brotherhood and the charities they support. He served as the Worshipful Master of Bethlehem Lodge, his Blue Lodge, for several years and was a member of the Scottish Rite of Augusta Valley Maine. He also belonged to the Kora Shrine where he served as director of the Flag Unit, in which he was proud to march and carry the flags in countless parades throughout Maine. Additionally, Bruce was an Exalted Ruler of The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks Augusta Lodge #964 and chaired many golf tournaments to raise money for the Maine Children’s Cancer Program.

Bruce was predeceased by his parents; and his grandson, Brandon Breton.

He is survived by his wife, Linda Fifield; son, Bryce Fifield (Hope Guardenier); daughter, Megan Harrigan (Ed Harrigan); son, Ryan Fifield (Sara Fifield); stepson, Michael Breton (Susan Breton); grandsons Caleb Fifield, Jackson Fifield, Alexander Harrigan, Sebastian Harrigan, Graham Guardenfield, and Walker Guardenfield; his five siblings, Linda Wheeler (Pete Wheeler), Dwight Fifield (BJ Fifield), Gilbert Fifield (Jeanne Fifield), Richard “Moe” Fifield (Cathy Fifield) and David Fifield (Donna Fifield); plus many nieces, nephews; and cousins.

Everyone is invited to attend a graveside service at noon, on Saturday, July 27, Riverside Cemetery, 102 Bangor St., Augusta, ME 04330. Immediately following the service, a Celebration of Life will be held at the Augusta Elks Lodge #964, at 397 Civic Center Drive, Augusta, ME 04330. All are welcome.

EDWIN R. AYERS

SIDNEY – Edwin Robert Ayers, 75, passed away peacefully on Friday, July 5, 2024, at Maine Medical Center, in Portland, following a period of declining health. He was born in Waterville on October 11, 1948, the son of the late Richard Ayers and Alice Knapp.

Edwin graduated from Cony High School, in Augusta, in 1966. During his high school days he was known for his 1966 Chevelle.

After graduation, he served six years in the Army National Guard. He held several jobs prior to working for the town of Sidney, and went on to become road commissioner for the town. He started his own business, Ayers Construction, in 1986, and successfully ran it for 30 years before retiring.

Edwin was a member of the Masonic Lodge, in Sidney, and a member of the town of Sidney Road Planning Committee. He loved greeting everyone with “What’s going on!”.

He loved to fish; especially off his dock on First Roach while enjoying the weekends at his camper. He was notorious for his campfires and the love of his boat. He also was an avid outdoorsman, enjoying bird and moose hunting, as well. He enjoyed tinkering in his garage. He and his wife, Brenda, went on many memorable cruises over the years. Most important to Edwin was spending time with his family and friends.

Edwin was predeceased by his parents; and his grandson, Zachary Cummings.

He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Brenda (Philbrick) Ayers; daughters Laurie Cummings and husband, Brook, Kellie Foye and significant other, Kevin Pelletier; his siblings Tunney White and wife Marianne, Linda Caouette and husband Danny, both of Sidney, Pam McCutcheon and husband Ray, of Oatman, Arizona, Bev Pare and husband Paul, of Dixmont, Jo Smith and husband Dan, of Mims, Florida, and Sue Beaudoin and husband Jeff, of Rangely; his grandchildren who called him “Beep Beep Grampie”; Samantha, Nicholas, Dylan, Noah, Hannah, and Logan; as well as his great-grandchildren, Clayton, Gabriella, Madelyn, and Everett; dozens of nieces, nephews; cousins; and several brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law. He also leaves behind his children Melissa Ashby and David Morse and their children.

A graveside service will be held on Sunday, July 28, at 1 p.m., at the Reynolds Hill Cemetery, in Sidney, with a Celebration of Life to immediately follow at 57 Lindsay Way, Sidney. Condolences may be shared at FuneralAlternatives.net

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Maine Health Maine Children’s Cancer Program, 100 Campus Drive #107, Scarborough, ME 04074.

LARRY J. MORSE

WHITEFIELD – Larry J. Morse, 83, died peacefully on Saturday, July 6, 2024, at Windward Gardens, in Camden, following an extended illness. Larry was born in Whitefield on August 26, 1940, the son of the late Francis L. and Emma J. (Fyfe) Morse.

After graduating from Morse High School, in Bath, Larry continued his education with classes at University of Maine. He then moved to Detroit, Michigan, to do contract engineering work. He was a talented artist and designer and had many mechanical design companies contracting his services.

He was a well known street racer on Woodward Avenue (the street racing venue at the time). He frequently raced muscle cars.

It was there that he met the future mother of his three children, a flight attendant for TWA. They married and moved to Los Angeles, California, where Larry attended The Art Center School of Design, in Pasadena, California.

Larry and his wife, Donna (Dameron) Morse, moved to Chicago, Illinos, where they lived for 10 years. Larry continued to do mechanical design work, and two of their boys were born, Gavin and Darren.

The family returned to Maine to live in 1979, and their third boy, Ryan, was born at Miles Memorial Hospoital when they lived in Newcastle. A few years later, he designed the Miles Memorial outside sign.

Larry always loved landscaping, (and trucks and tractors and mowers) and while in Chicago, he started a landscaping business called Earthcare Enterprises, doing commercial landscaping.

After returning to Maine, Larry and his family lived in Newcastle, on Damariscotta Lake. He worked doing design projects for area businesses and buying and selling antique automobiles. In 1983 the family moved to Washington State where they lived for many years while Larry continued to do design projects and landscaping.

In 1997 Larry returned to Maine, and to Whitefield. Buying and selling cars became a full-time job for the rest of his working years.

In his spare-time he enjoyed gardening, auto restoration, picking and dickering and always made sure he had the latest issue of Uncle Henry’s. He loved road trips and was always attending car auctions. His greatest love was the time he spent surrounded by his family, his three sons and his grandchildren.

He is survived by his companion of 14 years, Faye Chase, of Whitefield; three sons, Gavin Morse, of New York, Darren Morse, of Augusta, Ryan Morse, of Boothbay Harbor; three grandchildren, Zayda, Xen, and Viela Nguyen-Morse, all of Smithfield; a sister, Katherine Morse, of Whitefield; nephews Peter, Jon and Jerret Condon, all of Whitefield.

A graveside service celebrating Larry’s life was held on July 11, at St. Denis Cemetery, 298 Grand Army Rd., Whitefield. To view Larry’s memorial page, or to share an online condolence, please visit http://www.StaplesFuneralHome.com.

Arrangements are under the direction of Staples Funeral Home, 53 Brunswick Ave., Gardiner.

JOHN R. ZINKOVITCH

CLINTON – John Robert Zinkovitch, 82, of Clinton, passed away Sunday, July 7, 2024. He was born July 31, 1941, in Waterville, son of John Joseph Zinkovitch and Ruth (Ray­mond) Zin­kovitch.

He was a graduate of Lawrence High School, Fairfield, class of 1960. John married his high school sweetheart, Linda (Lane) Zinkovitch, on October 7, 1960. John and Linda were married for 56 years before her passing in 2017.

From an early age John had a strong work ethic, he attributed to his parents. As a young man he was a dedicated worker at local farms. John then worked at Scott Paper Company/Kimberly Clark, in Winslow, for 27 years.

John talked about fond memories of growing up on the Back Road, in Fairfield Center. He mentioned walking 10 miles after football at Lawrence High School, his Grammy Ida’s cooking and his German Shepard “Wolf”.

John was a member for many years at Natanis Golf Course, in Vassalboro, and played at various courses throughout the United States. He was also on a bowling league, enjoyed traveling with Linda to Hawaii, cruises, rides to the coast of Maine, Acadia National Park, Cabbage Island, and wherever his family were at the time.

Survivors include son, John A. Zinkovitch; daughters Debra (Zinkovitch) Gosselin and husband Jean, and Diane (Zinkovitch) Pisarcik; grandchildren, Jessica Pooler and fiancé Dana Dodge, John N. Zinkovitch Goulette and wife Meghan, Christopher Pooler and wife Courtney, Sarah (Pooler) Lemieux and husband Zachary Lemieux, Deanna Wallace, Darius Wallace and Abel Zinkovtich; great-grandchildren, Brayden Davidson, Maddox Lemieux, Caelyn Pooler, Lincoln Lemieux, Juliet Lemieux, Catarina Pooler, Isabelle Lemieux and Collin Pooler; brother, James Zinkovitch and wife Bonnie; cousins; and nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by wife, Linda; his parents John and Ruth Zinkovitch; and sister, Mary Gauthier.

Memorial services were held July 12, at the Brown Memorial Methodist Church, 36 Church St., in Clinton, at 2 p.m., followed by a graveside burial and reception.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Veilleux-Redington-Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, in Waterville.

CELESTE BOUCHARD

AUGUSTA – Celeste Bouchard,68, passed away on Sunday, July 7, 2024. She was born February 10, 1956, at the Sisters Hospital, in Waterville.

Celeste loved her family and her special lifetime friends, Sally, Linda, and Diane and her special cousin, Collette.

She supported her sister, Linda, through many years of heartaches with her son. “Cel” was her sister and her friend.

Celeste was generous, kind, and endured in faith and courage. Celeste loved animals and rescued and cared for many cats and two special iguanas. May she be reunited with her mom and dad, and her favorite cat, Dustin James.

Celeste leaves behind her sister, Linda Laverdiere; and her nephew, and godchild, Jason LaVerdiere; many cousins.

She was educated at Notre Dame Catholic School, in Waterville, and graduated from Mt. Merci Academy, in Waterville, in 1974. She attended Mid-State College, in Augusta, and graduated from Barbizon, in Boston, Massachusetts.

Her working history included Boothby and Bartlett Insurance Company, T-Mobile, and most recent, Sunset Home, all in Waterville, as a receptionist. She truly enjoyed her last years of employment at Sunset, prior to her falls and surgeries that led to her 18-month journey of hospitalization at Maine General, Mass General Hospital, and to Augusta Health and Rehab, where she was a patient for nine months.

EDNA A. McCANDLESS

WATERVILLE – Edna Adele McCandless, 105, of Waterville and South China, passed away peacefully on July 9, 2023. Edna was born on January 11, 1918, in New York City, New York, the daughter of Howard M. McCandless and Matilda (Heblich) McCandless.

At a very young age, Edna’s family moved to Chappaqua, New York, where she lived until she retired. As a child, her family began vacationing at Killdeer Point, on China Lake, which she loved and looked forward to every summer. Edna graduated from Horace Greeley High School, in Chappaqua, New York, in 1936. She then began her long successful career with The New York Telephone Company in NYC, where she became a Supervising Internal Auditor for the state of New York.

Edna retired in 1975 and within months she fulfilled her dream of moving to Waterville and spending time at her cottage on Killdeer Point. Her brother, Howard and his family moved to Maine also. She was such a loving person and caregiver to her family, there was nothing she wouldn’t do for them. She spent the rest of her years enjoying life and family in Waterville and gardening and taking care of her cottage on the lake. She lived on her own until she was 104 years old and then spent a few months at The Woods at Canco, in Portland, to be nearer to family.

Edna is survived by her nephew, Steven McCandless, of Sebago; niece, Janet (McCandless) Avallone and husband Bob Avallone, of Scarborough; great-nephew, Christopher Avallone, of North Windham; and great-niece, Kathryn Avallone, of Cape Neddick; cousins Leslie Glew, of Maryland, and Jane Glew, of Maryland; and caregiver and friend, Gisele LaBonte.

Edna was predeceased by her brother, Howard McCandless and sister-in-law, Marjorie McCandless, also of Waterville; her parents Howard and Matilda McCandless.

At Edna’s request there were no services at the time of her passing.

ELDEN L. GLIDDEN

PALERMO – Elden Lee Glidden, 70, a lifetime resident of Palermo, passed away at his home on Tuesday, July 9, 2024. He was born on February 10, 1954, a son of Elberton and Helen (Higgins) Glidden.

Elden attended local schools and was a graduate of Erskine Academy, inSouth China, in the class of 1972. Following high school, he earned his degree at Eastern Maine Technical College, in Bangor, to become an automotive mechanic, a skill he spent most of his life perfecting, while also teaching the neighbor children who wanted help.

On November 12, 1974, he married Patricia Blanchard and together they made their home in Palermo and raised their family. An active member of the community, Elden spent many years volunteering for the fire department, and even served as fire chief and assistant chief. He assisted in establishing the ball fields in Palermo where he coached the Dirigo girls’ softball leagues and played on the fire department softball team. He showcased his cat like abilities in beating everyone around the bases.

Elden was an avid animal lover, farmer and gardener, enjoyed playing cribbage, and rooting for the New England sports teams.

He was predeceased by his parents; and his siblings Carroll Glidden, and Kathaleen Saban.

Elden is survived by his wife of nearly 50 years, Patricia Glidden, of Palermo; his daughters Michelle Glidden, of Palermo, and Jamie Glidden, of Ridgewood, New Jersey; a grandson, Graham Glidden, of Ridgewood, New Jersey; aunt, Pauline Glidden, aunt, Ann Higgins; uncle, Sherwood Glidden and his wife Betty; sisters-in-law Darlene Glidden, Sharon Kimball, and Kimberly Bengston; brothers-in-law Harold Blanchard and David Blanchard.

A period of visitation will be held on Saturday, July 20, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., at Plummer Funeral Home, 983 Ridge Rd., Windsor, ME 04363.

A graveside service will be held on Sunday, July 21, 2024, at 2 p.m., at Smith Cemetery, in Palermo. Following the service, everyone is invited to a gathering at the Palermo Fish and Game Club House, located on Route 3, in Palermo.

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

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Elden’s name may be made to Life Flight Foundation.

DIANE S. BEAULIEU

BELGRADE – Diane S. Beaulieu, 62, died Tuesday, July 9, 2024, at the Gosnell Memorial Hospice House, in Scarborough. She was born in Holyoke, Massachusetts, on August 14, 1961, a daughter of Jean Paul and Claire M. (Carrier) Pepin.

Mrs. Beaulieu earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Maine and was the Owner of Business-Paycheck

She was a member of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, in Augusta, Lodge #964.

Mrs. Beaulieu was predeceased by her father, Jean Paul Pepin.

She is survived by her mother, Claire M. (Carrier) Pepin, of Belgrade; a son, Jason L. Brunelle, of Manchester; a sister, Doris Pepin (Christian Chouinard), of Marieville, Québec, Canada; a brother, Robert C. Pepin (Lori Ifill), of Belgrade; three grandchildren, Juleahna, Arrianna and Gage; as well as several aunts and uncles; nieces, nephews; and cousins.

A private service will be held at a later date.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Plummer Funeral Home, 16 Pleasant St., Augusta.

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

The family requests donation in Diane’s memory to Cancer Research Foundation, 6200 N. Hiawatha Ave., Suite 640, Chicago, IL 60646.

RICHARD H. GRAY JR.

WINDSOR – Richard Hunter Gray Jr., 66, passed away on Wednesday, July 10, 2024, unexpectedly, of natural causes. He was born April 21, 1958, a son of Laura M. (Fowle) and Richard H. Gray, Sr.

Rick grew up in Windsor and was a 1976 graduate of Erskine Academy, in South China. Following high school, he earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Maine at Orono. His education served him well and he became employed at Central Maine Power Company as an electrical engineer, where he remained a dedicated employee for 42 years.

On October 25, 1980, he married Deborah A. Biggs, and the two eventually settled in Windsor and raised four sons. Rick was a dedicated member of the Windsor community and served as a town selectman for 15 years and held positions on the budget and cemetery committee. For over 20 years, Rick was the director of parking at the Windsor Fair, where he was well known for his bright attire, hats, and Crocs shoes.

With an unfailing faith in God, Rick was baptized in 1994 and was a cherished member of the North Windsor Baptist Church, where he served the church in various capacities including deacon, choir member, Sunday school teacher, and VBS leader.

Of all of Rick’s leadership roles, he was most passionate about his involvement with Windsor Boy Scout Troop #609, where he led the troop in a variety of capacities including being a Scoutmaster. He was active in the Boy Scouts for 55 years. He was extremely proud of all the scouts he worked with, especially his four sons who joined him in earning the rank of Eagle Scout. Rick embodied the Boy Scout slogan, “Do a good turn daily.”

Rick will be remembered for his dedication to his community, his problem solving abilities, and his love and devotion for his family.

He was predeceased by his father, Richard H. Gray, Sr.

Rick is survived by his wife, Deborah Gray; his mother, Laura Gray; his sons Zachary Gray and his wife Rebecca, Mackenzie Gray, Benjamin Gray and his wife Brooke, and Spencer Gray; grandchildren, Zoey, Alexander, Isabella, and Emmalyn Gray, and Victoria and Spencer Healey; a brother, Timothy Gray and his wife Elizabeth; and several nieces and nephews.

A period of visitation was held on Tuesday, July 16, at Plummer Funeral Home, 983 Ridge Rd., Windsor, ME 04363. The funeral service was held on Wednesday, July 17, also at the funeral home. Interment followed at Resthaven Cemetery, in Windsor.

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

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Rick’s name may be made to North Windsor Baptist Church, 955 Ridge Rd., Windsor, ME 04363.

ANTHONY WAYNE BRANN

WHITEFIELD—Anthony Wayne Brann, 77, passed away Saturday, July 13, 2024, at his home, in Whitefield. He was born on June 14, 1947, a son of Harriet (Ripley) and Maurice J. Brann Sr.

Anthony, known to all as “Wayne”, grew up in Whitefield and graduated from Erskine Academy, in South China, in the class of 1965. Following school, he enlisted in the U.S. Army National Guard and proudly served his country. On September 6, 1969, Wayne married Carol E. Williams and the two settled in Whitefield raising two daughters, Shelley and Valerie.

Wayne was a hard worker and dedicated employee at Bath Iron Works for over 37 years, where he perfected his craft of welding. Wayne’s skillset served him well as his Yankee ingenuity allowed him to fix most any household or mechanical issues. Wayne also had a special ability to assemble and bring to life any ideas presented to him by family.

Wayne enjoyed tending his vegetable gardens, watching NASCAR, and caring for his animals. Above all, Wayne will be remembered as a devoted family man.

He was predeceased by his parents; and his brothers, Maurice J. Brann Jr., Allen Brann Sr., and Stephen Brann.

He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Carol Brann; his daughters, Shelley Nadeau and her husband, Dr. André Nadeau, and Valerie Brann; a granddaughter, Ava Nadeau; his sister, Deborah Kenoyer and her husband, Scott; sisters-in-law, Rita and Elaine Brann; and several cousins, nieces and nephews.

A private graveside service will be held for family. All are welcome to a celebration of life on Saturday, July 20, from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the home of Wayne and Carol on the Howe Road.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Plummer Funeral Home, 983 Ridge Rd., Windsor, ME 04363. Condolences, stories and photos may be shared by visiting www.plummerfh.com.

EDEITHA S. EDIE

WATERVILLE – Edeitha Siguenza Edie, 52, of Waterville, passed away June 29, 2024.

She was member of the Forrest J. Pare VFW Post #1285, in Waterville. She played cribbage and loved to ride her bike. She had a special love for animals.

She is survived by three sons, Kelly, Matthew and Saul and wife Katie Masse; a granddaughter Illiya; brothers Kelly and Ted and wife Lorna Williams, Kevin Masse, Kevin and Katie Masse; a sister, Brenda Kenney; several nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her mother, Sue Loisel, and father, Roger Masse; a brother, Jeff Edie.

There was a celebration of life at Waterville VFW Post #1285, on Friday, July 12.

PETER J. SHIRLEY

WATERVILLE – Peter John Shirley passed away on April 29, 2024.

He is survived by Juliette Shirley, his wife of 60 years; his four daughters, Bobby Shirley and Michael Harriman, Tracy and Geoffrey Burr, Christine and Dwane Williamson, Kathleen and John Bickford; 13 grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.

PAUL V. FLIBBERT

FARMINGTON – Paul Van Flibbert, 75, passed away on March 15, 2024. Paul was born on October 26, 1948, in Waterville, to parents Cecile and Russell Flibbert.

Paul was a graduate of Waterville High School. He liked to drive and own fast cars in his younger years. He was an avid hunter and fisherman – a true Mainer he was.

Paul retired as a federal meat inspector. While retired, he made the best beef jerky ever. He liked to drive his car visiting all his friends.

He is survived by his granddaughter, Ashley Flibbert; brother, Peter Flibbert; and nephew, Daniel Flibbert.

A graveside service will be held at St. Francis Cemetery, at 78 Grove St., in Waterville, on Wednesday, July 31, 2024, at 1 p.m.

KEITH ELWELL

READFIELD – Keith Elwell, 92, of Readfield, and formerly of Vassalboro, passed away on January 29, 2024. He was born February 14, 1932, in Sherman Mills, to John and Pearle (Clockedile) Elwell.

A committal service will be held on Friday, July 19, at 1 p.m., in the chapel at Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 163 Mt. Vernon Rd., Augusta.

Following the service, a reception will take place at Le Club Calu­met, 334 West River Rd., Au­gusta. Rel­atives and friends are respectfully invited.

To watch Keith’s service remotely, please visit the obituary page of our funeral home website https://www.khrfuneralhomes.com.

Arrangements are in the care of Roberts Funeral Home, Winthrop.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to the Riverside Congregational Church, or to the Vassalboro Library.

EVENTS: Oakfest scheduled for July 26-28, 2024

Gerry Butler rides a chicken during the 2023 Oakfest parade. (contributed photo)

Come experience a weekend of family fun Friday through Sunday, July 26 – July 28, and see why Oakfest is rated among the “10 Best Outdoor Festivals in Maine” this summer!

This year’s Oakfest theme is “Christmas in July” with three days of family entertainment beginning Friday evening with food, music, and a parade on Main Street, in Oakland. The day starts at 4 p.m., with a children’s Lions Club Safari “Bowling with Coconuts “at the Camden National Bank parking lot and tours at Memorial Hall, on Church Street. Food trucks are available from 5 – 11 p.m., and the American Legion Beer Tent will be open for over 21 years old until 11 p.m. The evening events kick off with a performance by the Highland Bag Pipes at 5:30 p.m., followed by the Christmas in July Parade at 6 p.m. Enjoy music by “RJ the DJ” Richard Jandreau, and come out for a street dance to live music by the Roy Hudson Band from 8 to 11 p.m., sponsored by the American Legion.

Saturday’s ShineOn Oakland festivities start at 9 a.m. behind Williams Elementary School, at 55 Pleasant Street, in Oakland, with an expansive, 75-booth ShineOn Oakland Open Air Market. The day-long event features Maine-made artisans and crafters, an extensive variety of food vendors, dozens of fun children’s activities, including bounce houses, water activities, a climbing wall, and carnival games, sponsored by Kingdom Life Church. Have your children choose a free book, as part of the ShineOnCass Literacy Project. Plus there will be a Cruise-In Classic Car Show from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Enjoy live music until 3 p.m., at the ShineOn Oakland Stage, plus much more.

Claire Slevinsky shows the free book she received at the 2023 Oakfest. (contributed photo)

At dusk, bring the kids to an Outdoor Movie Night presentation of Migration presented by Kingdom Life Church. Please bring lawn chairs and blankets to watch the movie. In case of inclement weather, Movie Night will be held at Kingdom Life Church, 191 High Street, in Oakland.

Rise and Shine on Sunday at 10 a.m., at the Oakland Gazebo, 22 Old Belgrade Road, in Oakland, to watch the Oakfest Christmas in July Boat Parade, led by Eric Seekins. Then enjoy live music from 1 to 3 p.m., by Ryan Michaud, grab lunch at Hero’s On Wheels Food Truck from 2:30 to 5 p.m., and stay for a free Elvis In Concert with Don Boudreau from 3 to 5 p.m., all overlooking beautiful Messalonskee Lake.

Oakfest is proudly sponsored by the Town of Oakland, Oakland American Legion, Oakland Lions Club, Kingdom Life Church, First Park, Kennebec Valley Federal Credit Union, Hometown Auto, Bri By Designs, Valley Beverage, Oakland Waterfront Park Summer Concert Series and the ShineOnCass Foundation.

Oakfest is pleased to partner with the ShineOnCass Foundation to provide an annual community support project to the summer festival. This year Oakfest will “Shine a Light on Literacy” by providing free books to children who attend ShineOn Oakland Day on Saturday. For more information about the project, visit shineoncass.org.

“We are excited to welcome back hundreds of attendees to Oakfest 2024, offering food, music and family-friendly activities for all ages. Oakfest is the place to be this summer in Maine,” says Oakfest Committee Chairman Kathy Paradis, who along with a committee of volunteers, coordinates the annual community festival.

For more information about Oakfest 2024, call Kathy Paradis at 207-465-7357, visit the Town of Oakland Facebook Page or oaklandmaine.us.

EVENTS: Food, Fun, and Friends meet at the community cookout in Palermo

Palermo Community Garden. (contributed photo)

The fun begins at 4 p.m., on Saturday, August 3, at 26 Veterans Way, in Palermo, as people gather for a celebration of summer in the Palermo Community Garden behind the gray mobile home. There is plenty of parking. The scent of fruitwood barbeque emanates from the Grape Arbor, where the tents and tables welcome guests with cooling beverages and home-cooked pulled pork, turkey, cornbread, cowboy beans, tempting desserts, and more. Tickets are only $10 for adults and $5 for youth 6-12. Little kids are free. Grace O’Brien will have tickets available at the gate. This will happen rain or shine, and takeouts are available. At 6 p.m., the firepit will be lit and folks can gather around it to hear Anthony Semenovich play his guitar and sing.

Meanwhile, Ann Bako and Nancy Thomas will be selling raffle tickets to those who have not already purchased them. Thanks to numerous sponsors and donors, there are dozens of prizes, including an Echo string trimmer donated by The Home Depot. Gardening tools, gift certificates, fishing rods, and more will be given away, and winners do not need to be present. Just put your name and phone number on the blue tickets and you’re in it to win it. Tickets are 6 for $5.

This cookout is a fundraiser for the Palermo Community Center, which hosts the Palermo Food Pantry, sponsors the Community Garden, and the Great ThunderChicken Teaching Drum. Drum practices are held at 7 p.m., on Tuesday evenings at the Community Center and all are welcome to join in the experience. The Community Garden helps to provide free, organic fruits, vegetables, and herbs to the Food Pantry and others in need. If you run out of dill for your pickling projects, be sure to grab some from the garden. Fresh garlic and berries are also in season. Call Connie Bellet at 993-2294 for information, volunteer opportunities, and cookout or raffle tickets. We are looking forward to seeing you!

EVENTS: Maine Open Farm Day set for Sunday, July 28, 2024

Experience farm life and learn about the origins of your food on Maine Open Farm Day, held this year on Sunday, July 28. This annual event is a fantastic opportunity for families, educators, and anyone curious about agriculture to connect with farmers and explore Maine’s vitally important agricultural community.

Maine Open Farm Day offers a unique chance to:

– Experience Farm Life: Discover the daily operations of a working farm, meet the animals, and learn about crop production.
– Educational Opportunities: Gain insights into sustainable farming practices, the importance of local agriculture, and the food journey from farm to table.
– Good Fun: Enjoy a day in rural communities across each of Maine’s 16 counties, with activities for all ages, from farm tours and demonstrations to hands-on experiences and local food tastings.

Event Details:

Maine Farm Day will take place on Sunday, July 28, from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., at various participating farms across Maine. Admission is free. Learn more at RealMaine.com.

To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all, please keep the following guidelines in mind:

– Don’t Ignore Farm Rules: Follow all guidelines provided by farm staff to ensure safety and avoid disruptions.
– Don’t Wander Off: Stay within designated areas, follow marked paths to prevent accidents, and ensure you don’t get lost.
– Don’t Feed the Animals Without Permission: Always ask the farmer to ensure it’s safe and appropriate before feeding any animals.
– Don’t Startle the Animals: Approach animals calmly and quietly to avoid causing them stress or defensive behavior.
– Don’t Bring Pets: Leave your pets at home to prevent the introduction of diseases to farm animals and avoid stress or aggressive encounters.
– Don’t Touch Equipment: Farm machinery can be dangerous; only handle equipment with explicit permission and supervision.
– Don’t Leave Gates Open: Always close gates behind you to prevent animals from escaping and creating additional work for farmers.
– Don’t Litter: Dispose of trash properly to protect animals and the environment.
– Don’t Wear Inappropriate Clothing: To ensure a safe and comfortable visit, dress in sturdy, comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes.
– Don’t Ignore Safety Signs: Follow all posted signs and warnings to keep yourself and others safe.
– Do check the local listings before you head out: Life on the farm can be unpredictable, and schedule adjustments may happen for any reason. Plus, you may find spots open on both days!
– Do plan to shop: There are plenty of options from home goods to farm-fresh food. Enjoy the best quality of perishables; use an insulated tote or cooler and keep cold foods cold and hot foods hot!

Join Maine Open Farm Day for a fun, learning, and community-minded day! For more information and a list of participating farms, please visit RealMaine.com.

Palermo Library holds annual meeting

(Photo courtesy of Palermo Community Library)

by Mary Grow

The Palermo Library Board held its 22nd annual meeting at the library on Sunday, July 14.  In addition to accepting annual reports, the board re-elected Chris Diesch chairman; Pam Swift secretary; and Diane Bent, treasurer. Diesch thanked the volunteers who keep the library open.

The library has an ongoing book sale and other events for adults and children.  During the annual Palermo Days celebration in August, library volunteers will raffle off a large quilt, on display in the meeting room.

Diesch said the 3D printer is now working.  She recommended anyone wanting to use it schedule an appointment, as not all volunteers are equally familiar with it.

The Palermo library is at 2789 Route 3, in Palermo; the telephone number is (207) 993-6088.  Its website, Palermo.me.lib.us, lists hours and other useful information.

EVENTS: Learn more about loons and loon restoration at Sheepscot Lake Assn. annual meeting

The Sheepscot Lake Association will be hosting Maine Audubon Biologist Ethan Daly at their annual meeting Thursday, July 25, to discuss the Audubon’s Loon Restoration Project. Ethan Daly will be discussing Loon Restoration. Ethan grew up in New Hampshire and moved to Maine in 2024. He attended Boston College where he studied environmental science. He’s been working with Maine Audubon’s Loon Restoration Project since March and thoroughly enjoys monitoring loons and working with volunteers. Outside of work he enjoys hiking, cycling, and his guitar.

Please bring a dessert to share at the potluck dessert table. The meeting will be held July 25, at 6:30, starting with a dessert potluck social. It will be held at the Palermo Consolidated School, on Route 3.

Planners begin discussions on two new proposed town ordinances

by Mary Grow

China Planning Board members began discussion of two proposed new town ordinances at their July 9 meeting. Chairman Toni Wall expressed the hope that they would be ready for submission to town voters by the Nov. 5 state and federal election day.

One ordinance is tentatively titled a Mass Gathering Ordinance. The purpose is to regulate events that draw large crowds, to maximize safety and minimize risks and annoyances.

Board members had as a model an ordinance that Vassalboro voters rejected by a narrow margin in November 2021. Vassalboro officials prepared it because a resident had proposed hosting a country music show. It covers two types of topics, external effects and attendees’ health, safety and comfort.

The former includes things like requirements for notice to neighbors, not necessarily only direct abutters; traffic and parking management; and noise limits. The latter covers such issues as water supply, portable toilets and emergency response plans.

The second ordinance is a site review ordinance that Wall said would be the basis for reviewing non-residential development applications. Codes Officer Nicholas French said it would provide more specific definitions of criteria in current town ordinances.

Board members intend to continue discussion at their next meeting, scheduled for Tuesday evening, July 30 (postponed from the usual second Tuesday of the month).

China select board pays bills at abbreviated meeting

Over half a million dollars in miscellaneous payments

by Mary Grow

China select board members met for barely over a quarter of an hour July 15, using the time to hear reports from town employees and spend more than half a million dollars.

The spending came first, when they approved two weeks’ worth of bills: more than $520,000 in miscellaneous payments plus over $42,000 for the town payroll.

Deputy Town Manager Jennifer Chamberlain shared five other employees’ reports.

— Kelly Grotton, assistant to the assessing agent, said select board members might have the figures they need to set the 2024-25 tax rate by their Aug. 12 meeting. Once board members approve a rate, office staff can mail out local tax bills. The first half payment is due by the close of business Monday, Sept. 30 (by town meeting vote).
— Director of Public Services Shawn Reed said the town public works crew has been repairing road shoulders washed out by heavy rains and preparing for summer paving. He announced that transfer station staff will inspect every vehicle at the entrance during the week of July 23, part of an effort to evaluate and improve enforcement of regulations.
— Codes Officer Nicholas French reported as of mid-year, he had issued 22 permits for new residences in China, compared to 30 for all of 2023. He plans to move back to China the end of July, and thanked Town Manager Rebecca Hapgood and Deputy Clerk Tammy Bailey for their help as he worked long-distance for the last several months.
— Summer intern Gracie Stagnito reported on economic development activities and plans for the annual China Days celebration, which begins Thursday evening, Aug. 1, with a walk in the China School Forest and ends Sunday afternoon, Aug. 4. Select board member Jeanne Marquis asked that Aug. 3 field events include a booth for board members to talk with residents, with a display on which to record comments and questions for public viewing.
— Town Clerk Angela Nelson said nomination papers for local elective offices will be available Monday, July 29. Signed papers must be returned by the close of business Friday, Sept. 6, for candidates’ names to appear on the Nov. 5 local ballot.

Nelson said the following incumbents’ terms end this year: on the select board, Blane Casey, Brent Chesley and Janet Preston; on the budget committee, Taryn Hotham (District 2), Timothy Basham (District 4) and Elizabeth Curtis, at-large member, and there is a vacancy for the secretary’s position, also elected from the town at large; and for one of China’s two Regional School Unit #18 board positions, T. James Bachinski.

In addition, Nelson said, there are vacancies on appointed boards: the planning board, board of appeals, board of assessment review, recreation committee and comprehensive plan implementation committee.

Residents interested in more information about any of these positions are invited to call or email the town office.

The July 15 select board discussion included one item not on the agenda. Before the meeting began, board chairman Wayne Chadwick displayed the diagram of the South China boat landing prepared for the state Department of Environmental Protection as part of an application to improve the access road (see the July 11 issue of The Town Line, p. 2). During the meeting, Blane Casey reported he had visited the landing two weekend afternoons recently and found it deserted.

The next regular China select board meeting is scheduled for Monday evening, July 29.

Mr. Drew and His Animals, Too come to Albert Church Brown Memorial Library

Saturday, July 13, snakes, spiders, and a crowd of 125 children and adults descended on Albert Church Brown Memorial Library, in China. Mr. Drew started small with how insects fill important roles in pollination and cleaning up. The fun especially started as he pulled many large snakes, turtles and large spiders from his many boxes. He emphasized responsible ownership and offered to serve as technical support before buying animals. For example, a family bought their child a “fairy frog.” Turns out they grow to six pounds and require a diet of rats. Now he showed that frog, as he has it. At four pounds it’s not full grown. Beware of what you buy. Everyone very much enjoyed interacting with the animals at the end of the show. China Village library is very busy this summer. Come check out the monthly art exhibits. https://www.chinalibrary.org, reading program, and booksale at China Days.

Contributed photos

Nonagenarian writes book, shares at reading in Palermo

Ninety-year-old Jeannette Scates reads from her book, There Wasn’t Always Peace in the Valley. (photo by Andy Pottle)

by Mary Grow

Nonagenarian Jeannette Scates signs one of her recently published books. (photo by Andy Pottle)

Guest speaker Jeannette Wood Scates shared excerpts from her recent memoir, There Wasn’t Always Peace in the Valley, with an appreciative audience at the Palermo Library’s 22nd annual board meeting, held July 14 at the library.

The valley is Hostile Valley in eastern Palermo, where Scates and her three older siblings grew up in the house their father built around 1930. The book’s cover photo shows the Wood children: Allen, Jeannette on the lap of older sister Rachel and oldest brother Harry, with their dog, Teddy.

Asked how Hostile Valley got its name, Scates referred to a poem quoted in the book written by her “Grammie Wood,” more formally Theresa Alice Bickford Wood, when she was a columnist using the byline Molly Malone for the Kennebec Journal, in Augusta. The last two lines read:

Every Valley man has a kindly heart
And a gol durned Hostile tongue.

The book is a collection of stories and memories, from which Scates read selections, to applause, smiles and chuckles. She started with the one she called her daughter’s favorite, titled “Worldwide Travelers.”

This story tells how the travelers started with take-out from “an eatery place called ‘Mama’s Kitchen,'” where they stocked up on molasses cookies with sugar on top and soda crackers with butter and mustard. They agreed on who would drive first, and on a destination – often Boston, perhaps as far as New York, where they admired the Stone Lady in the harbor.

The story ends: “We all piled out of the old, abandoned, junk car in the backyard – AND WE WERE HOME AGAIN!” Below is a photo of a rusty two-door station wagon, glassless, with ragged fenders, amid hood-high weeds.

Illustrations throughout show family members, neighbors and other memorable figures, including the rooster who used to chase Rachel and one of Harry’s Herefords, with Harry and Rachel. Asked about the pictures, Scates said many were taken with her Brownie Hawkeye camera that Rachel gave her for her 16th birthday.

Right after the travelers’ tale is the story of Scates’ father’s 40th birthday gift to her mother. She explains that her mother had no sled, nor snowshoes, nor skates, and so was left out of the children’s winter play.

Her father somehow found the money to buy his wife a pair of skates “with silver runners” and a pair of warm stockings. He gave one skate or one stocking to each of the four children to present simultaneously.

One of Scates’ father’s jobs was driving a snowplow for the town. The book shows the “Cleartrac Tractor with a Sargent Snowplow and wings” that the town bought in 1939 and “Daddy” drove.

Themes running through the book include an appreciation of the natural world and its changes, an appreciation of family and friends and an overriding optimism. Scates does not pretend life was easy. Everyone, children included, worked hard; money was scarce; her father died when she was eight years old; and after a long, happy marriage she is a widow.

Yet she wrote in the next-to-last essay in the book, “I have been through some hard times, but I can say that the biggest part of my journey has been so rewarding and special!” In addition to generations of family and friends, she credits the Lord “who has walked beside me most of my life, and when the times got hard, He carried me as He had promised He would do.”

Asked if there would be another book, Scates was hesitant. Asked about plans for her 90th birthday, which she was to celebrate July 16, she and her son, Rudy Scates, gave vague replies. Audience members sang Happy Birthday to her, and library personnel had prepared a special birthday treat.