First time champ

/0 Comments/in , /by

Roger Files, 14, of Palermo, with his awards. (Contributed photo)

There were enough points from all the karate tournaments that were held this year for Roger Files, 14, of Palermo, to qualify for the karate state championships. Roger collected first place awards in both Kata and Kumite at the State Martial Arts Rating and Total Championships, held at the Boys and Girls Club, in Waterville, on December 1. Roger trains with Club Naha, at the Boys – Girls Club, and instructor Craig Sargent.

Roger Files is congratulated by a teammate. (Contributed photo)

Legal Notices, Week of December 13, 2018

/0 Comments/in /by

STATE OF MAINE
PROBATE COURT
COURT ST.,
SKOWHEGAN, ME
SOMERSET, ss
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
18-A MRSA sec. 3-801

The following Personal Representatives have been appointed in the estates noted. The first publication date of this notice December 6, 2018

If you are a creditor of an estate listed below, you must present your claim within four months of the first publication date of this Notice to Creditors by filing a written statement of your claim on a proper form with the Register of Probate of this Court or by delivering or mailing to the Personal Representative listed below at the address published by his name, a written statement of the claim indicating the basis therefore, the name and address of the claimant and the amount claimed or in such other manner as the law may provide. See 18-A MRSA 3-804.

2018-229 – Estate of LILLIAM M. MERRILL, late of Anson, Me, deceased. Eddie Welch, 15 Warren Hill Road, Belgrade, Me 04917 appointed Personal Representative.

2018-326 – Estate of RICHARD I. HUNT, JR., late of Fairfield, Me deceased. David F. Hunt, 59 Nyes Corner Drive, Fairfield, Me 04937 appointed Personal Representative.

2018-328 – Estate of E. JOYCE DIPIETRO, late of Solon, Me deceased. Anna Hupper, 171 French Hill Road, Solon, Maine 04979.

2018-329 – Estate of JEFFREY P. POMERLEAU, late of Madison, Me deceased, Patricia Ouellette, 895 Beckwith Road, Cornville, Me 04976 appointed Personal Representative.

2018-330 – Estate of DAVID L. MITCHELL, late of Madison, Me deceased. Lester and Mary Tomlinson of 166 Golf Course Road, Madison, Maine 04950 appointed Co-Personal Representatives.

2018-331 – Estate of LEON EARL NASON, late of Skowhegan, Me deceased. Deanna L. Nason, 110 Bigelow Hill Road, Skowhegan, Maine 04976 appointed Personal Representative.

2018-332 – Estate of CATHY MARIE LASLOW, late of Anson, Me deceased. Sheila A. Laslow, 23 Cutler Ave., Apt 4, Hampton, NH 03842 and Michael L. Laslow, 67 Hennessey Road, Industry, Me 04938 appointed Co-Personal Representatives.

2018-333 – Estate of JOANNE P. RENDELL, late of Norridgewock, Me deceased. Carl Edward Rendell, 492 River Road, Norridgewock, Me 04957 appointed Personal Representative.

2018-335 – Estate of GAGE ARTHUR WEEKS, late of Canaan, Me 04924 deceased. Harry D. Weeks, 14 Stoney Park Drive, Canaan, Me 04924 appointed Personal Representative.

2018-336 – Estate of CATHERINE AURIEMMA, late of Fairfield, Me deceased. Lisa Auriemma, 21 Newhall Street, Fairfield, Me 04937 appointed Personal Representative.

2018-338 – Estate of GRACE M. DODDGE, late of Detroit, Me deceased. Michael A. Dodge, 950 Hartland Road, Canaan, Me 04924 appointed Personal Representative.

To be published on December 6 & 13, 2018.
Dated: December 3, 2018 /s/ Victoria Hatch, Register of Probate
(12/13)

STATE OF MAINE
PROBATE COURT
41 COURT ST.
SOMERSET, ss
SKOWHEGAN, ME
PROBATE NOTICES

TO ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN ANY OF THE ESTATES LISTED BELOW

Notice is hereby given by the respective petitioners that they have filed petitions for appointment of personal representatives in the following estates. These matters will be heard at 10 a.m. or as soon thereafter as they may be December 19, 2018. The requested appointments may be made on or after the hearing date if no sufficient objection be heard. This notice complies with the requirements of 18-A MRSA §3-403 and Probate Rule 4.

2018-305 – Estate of NICHOLAS R. OUELLETTE, JR., minor of Fairfield, Me. Petition for Appointment of Guardian of Minor filed by Judith A. Smith, 1 Adams Road, Fairfield, Me 04937.

THIS NOTICE IS ESPECIALLY DIRECTED TO NICHOLAS R. OUELLETTE, SR., of address unknown.

2018-304 – Estate of JOHN M. OUELLETTE, minor of Fairfield, Me. Petition for Appointment of Guardian of Minor filed by Judith A. Smith 1 Adams Road, Fairfield, Me 04937.

THIS NOTICE IS ESPECIALLY DIRECTED TO NICHOLAS R. OUELLETTE, SR., of address unknown.

2018-337 – Estate of CYNTHIA ANN CURRIER, adult of Skowhegan, Me. Petition for Change of Name (Adult) filed by Cynthia Ann Currier, 48 Water Street, Suite 1, Skowhegan, Me 04976 requesting her name be changed to Cynthia Ann Sinclair for reasons set forth therein.

Dated: December 3, 2018 /s/ Victoria Hatch, Register of Probate
(12/13)

CRITTER CHATTER: Duck Pond animal rehab center still going

/1 Comment/in /by
by Amy Messier

Greetings fellow wildlife enthusiasts! My name is Amy. Many of you know me as the volunteer with the apron who showed up at the Wildlife Care Center, in Vassalboro, about 14 years ago and never left. This has been a very sad year for us at the Center since we lost our beloved Carleen Cote. She passed away with heart illness back on April 27 (ironically, her birthday), not long after she had decided to stop writing the monthly “Critter Chatter” articles that were enjoyed by so many.

The late Carleen Cote holds the “Spirit of America Award” presented to the Wildlife Care Center in 2015. (Contributed photo)

Her husband, Donald, and I have discovered that many people are under the impression that we are no longer in business. This could not be farther from the truth. We are still here doing what we’ve always done, which is taking in injured and orphaned wildlife mammals, young and old, healing them when possible and releasing them back to the wild. Our passion for what we do is just as strong and dynamic as it has ever been. So for those and various other reasons, I have decided to take up the pen and bring you information, anecdotes, pictures and stories from the Center.

Please also note the email address at the bottom of this article. Feel free to write with comments and questions. If there is a particular Maine wild animal that you would like more information on, you can request it and I will do my darned best to write about it. I would like the articles to be yours and ours. After all, we wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for all of you. Donald, Debbie, Jeff, all of our wonderful volunteers and I thank you so very much for your past and continuing support.

I hope you will look for next month’s article. I have decided to start, where else, at the beginning – what to do when you find an animal…from the animal’s viewpoint! See you then.

Donald Cote operates the Wildlife Care Center, along with volunteer Amy Messier and other volunteers. The Center, located on Rte. 3, in Vassalboro, is a nonprofit facility, supported entirely by the Cotes’ own resources and outside donations. Call them at 445-4326, email thewildlifecenter@gmail.com or write to 1787 N. Belfast Ave., Vassalboro, ME 04989.

REVIEW POTPOURRI – Composer: Berlioz; Xmas quote from Borge; Band: Abba

/0 Comments/in /by
Peter Catesby Peter Cates

Berlioz: L’Enfance du Christ

Andre Cluytens conducts Paris Conservatory Orchestra with chorus and soloists. EMI, Recorded 1964, 2 CDs.

Hector Berlioz

André Cluytens

Composer Hector Berlioz (1803-1869) left a Christmas oratorio, the above-listed Birth of Christ and quite exceptional in its own sublime beauty. The work focuses on three episodes of the Christmas story- Herod’s dream and massacre of the innocents; the flight of Joseph, Mary and their infant into Egypt; and the hospitality provided by an Ishmaelite family in the Egyptian town of Sais.

Its vocal solos and choruses abound in melodic richness. The baritone aria, depicting the evil Herod’s dream and sung by Ernest Blanc, is an eloquent one with Berlioz’s matchless orchestral scoring. The harp and flute duet and a capella chorus; Roger Soyer’s Joseph; Victoria de los Angeles’s Mary; and Nicolai Gedda’s Narrator add up to a work that, for me, has sustained numerous rehearings throughout the years.

Andre Cluytens’s 1964 set has been nicely remastered and reissued a number of times. It is available through Amazon and its vendors at inexpensive prices .

Xmas quote from Victor Borge

Victor Borge

“Santa Claus has the right idea. Visit people only once a year. “

Abba: Arrival

Polydor 2344058, LP, recorded 1976.

The quality of Abba’s songs is wide ranging, from good to sublime, as it was 40 years ago when I first heard them. Arrival is one of eight albums released before they disbanded in 1982. The marriages of the two couples comprising the group, Benny and Anni and Bjorn and Agnetha, ended becau

se of the pressures from their phenomenal worldwide popularity.

This album’s 10 songs included Dancing Queen, Money Money Money, Why Did It Have to be Me, and the title song, while the arrangements, range of musical instruments and sheer sound contributed to a major ‘70s pop classic.

ABBA

FOR YOUR HEALTH – Holiday Dining: Writing Off The End Of The Year

/0 Comments/in /by

(NAPSI)—Americans are officially abandoning attempts to be healthy until 2019, according to a new study.

A new study into the health and diets of Americans saw as many as 45 percent say they’re postponing any resolution to eat clean or lose weight until after the holiday festivities.

The research, commissioned by Herbalife Nutrition, delved into the true extent of holiday indulging and found the average person gains six pounds in holiday weight.

Just 12 percent will make it through the holidays without any weight gain at all, according to the research.

Where does all that weight gain come from?

  • Forty-four percent have eaten more than one Thanksgiving dinner in the same day and 30 percent have eaten to the point of feeling sick.
  • Four in 10 have devoured so much holiday food they’ve needed to loosen a button on their pants.
  • During the holiday season, the understandable inability to resist temptations and overindulge has also seen 55 percent break a diet for home-cooked holiday food.
  • Seventy-nine percent say they eat more sweets and treats at the end of the year—but even with this overeating, 54 percent believe they’ll be successful in staying healthy in 2019.
  • The average person will overeat on 13 separate days between Thanksgiving and the New Year.

Nutrition and health expert Dr. John Agwunobi says that holidays don’t have to throw off your healthy lifestyle. “Healthy snacking is a useful tool in combating overindulgence. Consuming protein-rich snacks before heading out to a holiday feast can help make you feel full, so that you don’t overindulge.”

Staying on track can be hard, especially if you are tackling it on your own. Dr. Agwunobi adds, “Herbalife Nutrition independent distributors have demonstrated that developing a support system of people who know your goals, strengths and weaknesses can be extremely beneficial in maintaining a healthy lifestyle, especially during the challenging times of the year.”

Dr. Agwunobi added, “While resolutions are a great way to kick-start a healthy year, a healthy diet is a long-term solution that you’ll want and need to practice steadily—for days, weeks and months—for lasting results.

“For best results, stick to a balanced diet that isn’t overly restrictive and combine it with consistent exercise to help achieve your healthy resolutions. You can start this holiday season simply by parking at the farthest spot from the store or mall entrance, helping you rack up extra calorie-burning steps.”

Learn More

For more facts, tips and recipes, go to www.herbalife.com.

PAGES IN TIME: The story of Killdeer Lodge – conclusion

/0 Comments/in , /by

The Killdeer Lodge at it appeared in 2017, minus the roof over the porch which collapsed several years ago. Left, the lodge as it lays following its razing in October 2018. (Photo by Bob Bennett)

With the demise of the old Killdeer Lodge recently, which over the years had fallen into disrepair, the following article represents a history of the lodge, from its inception in 1929, to the razing in 2018.

(Read part 1 here, and part 2 here)

The conclusion is a reprint from The Town Line, October 2, 1999, issue, by the late Faith Ames.

The property had been acquired by the Dillenbeck family in the 1920s when Ben Dillenbeck’s brother-in-law Earle Eli Wagner purchased 250 acres of land for his resort development dream on China Lake is described in a 1949 brochure promoting Killdeer Lodge on China Lake.

I learned that the weekly rates under the “American Plan” was $38 per person, two to a room, $35 per person two to a room in a party of ten or more, and $30 per child (if under ten years of age). Daily rates were $6.50 per person, two to a room and $5 per child (if under ten years of age.)

On the “European Plan,” no weekly rates were charged. Lodging was $2 per day, per person. Housekeeping cottages and cabins were in limited number within a three to ten-minute walk from the Killdeer Lodge and Dining Room. Some caps were located on the water’s edge, some on the hill overlooking the lake. All were completely furnished with modern conveniences.

The lodging was described as: “A rustic, two-story Sleep Lodge, accommodating 36 guests. Very comfortable twin beds. A few single rooms. Four bathrooms, two for men, two for women, with hot and cold running water. Huge, cozy fireplace, open covered porches. Recreation: Bathing on your own, with bathing beach equipped with diving float; boating, fishing; horsehoes, ball games, croquet, shuffleboard, table tennis, checkers, chess, cards, hiking trails; dancing, social get-togethers; golf and ennis nearby. Meals: Served in dining and recreation building, which is situated on ledge overlooking China Lake. Home-cooked, attractive food that “hits the right spot.” Fresh produce raised in our own garden or on nearby farms.”

A New Era

After Killdeer Lodge’s large 100-foot dining room had been damaged when 60 feet of its roof had collapsed from snow load in the winter of 1963, the remaining 40 feet had been dismantled and salvaged by Hank Dillenbeck, the son of Emilie and Ben Dillenbeck (the author of Killdeer Point’s history published in the September 18 and September 25 issues [of the Town Line, 1999].

From 1963 until 1970, the old Bragg Barn that had been converted into sleeping quarters continued to operate as a Sleep Lodge. The dining and recreation building was never rebuilt. Then, about 1971, the lodge was closed for good.

[In 1999] the lodge was the site of Maine-ly Trains, where James Ferrone had converted it to a train shop. The train store has been attractively set up and has not only trains, but train novelties, which have delighted many a customer. A look inside still bring back memories of the beautiful lodge of yesteryear.

Killdeer certainly as a long history in our area – with many cottages still dotting the shore called Killdeer Point. Through the years, as I would ride by the lodge and see guests milling about, I remember thinking, “What a lovely place.”

Restoration of the Bragg Farmhouse at Killdeer Point

In March 1980, Hank Dillenbeck restored the old Bragg farmhouse (built circa 1820) on Killdeer Point. The house had belonged to one of the three farms originally purchased for the Killdeer development in the 1920s. As far as Hank knows, it originally belonged to Deacon Nathaniel Bragg, a veteran of the War of 1812, whose grave (across from the Lodge) indicates he died in 1838.

Throughout its heyday when the lodge was in operation the house was used somewhat as sleeping quarters for the hired help, but mostly, if was used just for storage, Hank believes.

Hand had the house freed from its original granite foundation in 1980 by leveling it on huge metal beams which were drawn by hydraulic winches to a new foundation about 70 years further from the road (which had widened over the years) to achieve a better angle for the winter sun and, especially, to get the best view on the lake. After extensive authentic restoration, the house was occupied by Hank and his family in the fall of 1980. The framework interior, three cooking fireplaces plus a brick oven are all original and workable. Timbers are all hewn and pegged, and the granite foundation is original – taken from the original home site.

Its windows are copies of originals which were built circa 1810. The windows are nine over six, which means nine panes of glass are on the top and six panes are on the bottom – with just the bottom part opening. One wing, a greenhouse, and shed, all connected, were built at the same time. A garage, added in 1982, is also connected.

Landscaping, with the addition of lovely flowers, make for an attractive setting for this lovely old home. Peach, plum, pear, grape and apple trees have been added, along with a vegetable garden which provides many varieties of vegetables for their table. Both Hank Dillenbeck and his wife, Noriko, make pickles from an abundant crop.

On a clear day, from the Dillenbeck’s sitting room, one can see Sugarloaf Mountain, Mt. Blue, Saddleback and Bigelow mountains – just as Earle Eli Wagner had seen the inspiring view back in the 1920s.

Editor’s note: The lodge, located on Lakeview Drive (Rte. 202), in South China, was demolished in November 2018. According to town of China records, the property is currently owned by Maine-ly Lakefront Properties, LLC.

The Killdeer Lodge fireplace as it stands following demolition of the building in October 2018. (Photo by Bob Bennett)

Nivek Boostedt earns Eagle Scout rank

/1 Comment/in , /by

Eagle Scout Nivek Boostedt

by Ron Emery, committee member of Troop #479

Throughout its history, members of the Boy Scouts of America have provided leaders for tomorrow, prepared as good citizens, always ready to serve others. Service often occurs in small, unassuming ways – good turns and acts of kindness by individual Scouts, often unnoticed throughout their daily lives. It happens on a larger scale, too, when an Eagle Scout candidate plans and carries out his major service project. The celebration of this event was recently held at the China Baptist Church for Eagle Scout Nivek Lynn Boostedt, of Troop #479.

Friends, family members, elected officials and other scouts gathered together to honor Nivek for earning his wings – the rank of Eagle Scout in the Boy Scouts of America. The Eagle is the highest rank that Scouting bestows in the advancement program. This was an occasion for pride and joy, as well as a time of reflection. Eagle Scout Nivek Boostedt, his family, his Scout leaders, and other members of the community had labored long and faithfully, and their efforts were recognized in this special presentation.

Nivek and his family selected the Four Winds Eagle Scout Ceremony and asked other members of Troop 479 to assist him.

Scout Michael Boostedt represented the West Wind. The spirit of the West Wind represents the law of equity, your duty to country and to others; friendly, courteous, and kind are the laws that breathe of conscience.

Scoutmaster Scott Adams asked his mother to pin the Eagle medal on Nivek’s uniform. He then asked Nivek to present her with the Eagle mother’s pin. He then asked Nivek’s father to present the Eagle Scout certificate. Nivek was also asked to present to his father the Eagle lapel pin. His parents were asked to place the Eagle neckerchief around the neck of their son. Scott gave remarks about Nivek’s time in Scout Troop 479.

Committee Member Danielle Pettengill asked Eagle Scout Nivek Boostedt to advance his name on the board of Eagle rank. Assistant Scoutmaster Doug Leonard also presented awards from the troop 479 committee.

An integral component of the requirements is a service project. The candidate must develop the project, organize the materials and manpower, and supervise its completion. His project was to select a space in the China School Forest in back of the school to clear an area for an outdoor classroom. He was also asked to replace the shingled roof on the little building at the Bird Watching Station. He met with Anita Smith to coordinate the two projects. He selected the area for the classroom, marked the trees to cut, trees were cut and some of the tree stumps were used to provide the posts for the benches. He also had a seat cut into a log that was left from a previous cutting. A metal roof was placed on the little building and trees and limbs were removed near the roof to prevent damage to the roof.

He is the son of Kevin and Heather Boostedt, of South China, and he is currently working at Sam’s Club.

SOLON & BEYOND: 4-H’ers active over holidays

/0 Comments/in /by
Marilyn Rogers-Bull & Percyby Marilyn Rogers-Bull & Percy
grams29@tds.net
Solon, Maine 04979

Good morning, my friends. Don’t worry, be happy!

The Solon Pine Tree 4-H Club met on December 8, with Cooper Dellarma presiding. There were 20 members, three leaders and ten visitors present.

The club is doing a Christmas dinner for a family and it will be delivered on December 19.

East Madison Grange has invited three 4-H members to come and do demonstrations and talk on 4-H. This will be done in the spring.

A craft project using mason jars was done by the members. After awards, a gift enjoyed and refreshments were served.

The next meeting will be on Saturday, January 12, at 9:30 a.m., at the Solon Fire Station. Debra Kantor, extension educator will present officers training to the members.

Received the following e-mail from Linda French: We will not be moving the thrift shop and food cupboard to the location on South Main Street, in Solon, as we couldn’t come to an agreement with the owner of the property. The food cupboard will remain in operation at the old location on Pleasant Street. The hours will be 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., on the second and fourth weeks of the month. December hours will be different because of the holiday. They will be open Dec. 13 and 14, and December 20 and 21. They will be giving out the Christmas dinners on the 20 and 21. They will also be selling a few winter items and Christmas decorations starting on the December 12. Call 643-2855 for info.

Received the following SWT E-News: First a story of great achievement! Entitled My Personal War on Knotweed. You may have recently noticed a bare spot along the river at SWT’s Kennebec Banks Rest Area, This area has become overgrown with an invasive plant called Japanese Knotweed (Fallopia japonica) or Mexican Bamboo. It is very hardy, can grow to ten feet tall, and chokes off native plants. The knotweed had grown so thick and high that it was blocking the view of the river.

On April 23, 2018, Earth Day, Somerset Woods Trustees held a Volunteer Clean Up Day and a crew tackled the knotweed patch resulting in two pickup truck loads of knotweed.

Returning two weeks later, spring was in full bloom and so was the knotweed! It had grown back to knee to waist high.

My knotweed war began! I hit it with the weed whacker. But this stuff is tough and when the string hit the stalk it was like hitting a branch. I used two spools of string. The knotweed grew again and came back thicker and stronger. People would walk by, see me cutting the knotweed and they would say “oh, good luck,” or use Round-Up, kerosene, vinegar,” or ” you are never going to win.”

Looking up another weapon that can be a little more selective I dug around in a corner of my garage and found an old weed whip. It works like swinging a golf club! Once a week the war continued; don’t even think of skipping a week!

After this summer routine, success was apparent. Wild parsnip appeared and other ground plants covered the bare earth but then inexplicably, someone dug them up! But, milkweed and other flowering plants have started to return. Next year, if the knotweed returns, maybe I’ll get a goat. (This interesting story was written by SWT Trustee, Tom Hendricks.) I can relate to the story, because I was plagued with the persistent plant at my house on Ferry Street, in Solon.

There will be a bag sale Dec. 12, 14 and 15 (Hours: Wed. 10 a.m – 12:30 p.m., Fri. & Sat. 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.) at the Embden Neighbor to Neighbor Thrift Shop. Small bags $1 and large bags $2 The Lending Library is open when the Thrift Shop is open.

And now for Percy’s memoir: There is no medicine like hope, no incentive so great, and no tonic so powerful as expectation of something tomorrow. (words by O. S. Marden.)

Obituaries, Week of December 13, 2018

/0 Comments/in /by

RED (ORA) BENNETT

ALBION – Red (Ora) Bennett, 81 of Albion, passed away at his home on Saturday, November 24, 2018. He was born on January 15, 1937, in Albion, the son of Rinaldo and Izetta (Boody) Bennett.

He attended Besse High School, in Albion.

Red was the oldest of five children. After the passing of his parents at age 16, he chose to live in Albion with the Bessey family: Grete, Floyd, Burdell & Hillard.

Red worked as an equipment operator for Lee Bros., in Albion. In 1964 he went to work as a crane operator for Warren Bros. He opened and operated Bennett Ski-Doo, in 1970. Red retired in 1997 from Tilcon as equipment superintendent. He made lifelong friends while working there, including Bob Costain whom he considered his “brother” for over 55 years. Red went into the gravel pit and firewood business with Bob, and processed and sold firewood from 1989 until his passing.

Red was an avid hunter and sportsman for over 70 years. Deer hunting was his passion he shared with Mary, his family and many friends including Dave Mason and Steve Bard who were eager to hunt with him every season.

Red spent the last 38 years with the love of his life, Mary who cherished every moment they spent together. Their love for each other was unconditional.

Red cherished the many holidays, birthdays and special events in all of our lives. He had a special bond with his faithful companion and friend Aubrey Dog. She loved being with “grandpa” daily and taking rides in his Jeep.

Red is survived by his life partner Mary Bragdon; daughter Brooke Doore and partner Derek Grenier; granddaughter Amaiya Doore; grandson Aiden Doore; sister Nancy Martin, of Corinna, step-son Jeff Singleton and partner Jim Singleton; many nieces and nephews.

He is predeceased by his parents and sisters: Marlene Vance, Barbara Capehart, and Joan Woods.

Please visit www.veilleuxfuneralhome.com to share condolences, memories and tributes with Red’s family.

A Celebration of Red’s Life will take place on Saturday January. 12, 2019, (inclement weather date Sunday, January 13) at noon at the Waterville Elks Lodge, 76 Industrial Rd, Waterville ME.

For those who wish, donations may be made in Red’s memory to: Humane Society Waterville Area, 100 Webb Road, Waterville, ME 04901.

ALBERT C. ARBOUR

WINDSOR – Albert C. Arbour, 72, passed away Friday, November 30, 2018. He was born on June 29, 1946, in Brookton, to the late Alfred Arbour and Iris (Fish) Arbour.

He enjoyed doing many things, he was a jack of all trades. He worked at the old Bates Mill, Lipmans, managed properties, and was extremely talented in the mechanics and carpentry. He would always talk about his time working in the woodshop where he built furniture. His most enjoyable time was spent with family.

Before his health took its toil, he would go fishing, bowling, and he loved spending Thanksgiving with his loved ones. He was a kind, compassionate man, rough on the edges but would do anything for anyone.

He was an amazing dad, grampa, brother, partner and friend.

He was predeceased by his parents, Alfred Arbour and Iris (Fish) Arbour; and sister, Paula Arbour.

He is survived by his children: Joanne Crocker, of Fairfield, Jesse Arbour, of Westbrook, Carl Jackson, of Readfield, Karryann Jackson, of Randolph, Danny Jackson, of Mercer, Jessica Arbour, of Chelsea, Autumn Mercado Gatlin, of Chelsea, Travis Arbour, of Windsor, Megan Pearl, who he considered a daughter, of Windsor; his siblings, Jackie Bowden, of Mercer, Frankie (Cookie) Arbour, of Whitefield; many grandchildren; nieces, nephews, and cousins.

He will be sadly missed by many.

A gathering of his life will take place at a later date with the scattering of his ashes.

DEBORAH HAMM

WINSLOW – Deborah “Debbie” Hamm, 67, born November 2, 1951, lost her short battle with cancer Thursday, November 30, 2018.

Debbie was a very hard working and caring person who touched the lives of everyone who knew her and she will be sadly missed.

She is survived by her brother Tom; children Willie, Richie, Bert, Tammy and Eddie; grandchildren Mikayla, Savannah, Jacob, Summer and Corey; great-grandchild Bradley.

In lieu of flowers donations can be sent in care of Willard Hamm to 17 Monument St., Apt. 2, Winslow ME 04901, where her Celebration of Life will be held on December 29, 2018, at 2 p.m.

MONA B. MCCREADY

UNITY – Mona Blake McCready, 80, of Unity, passed away at her home on Monday, December 3, 2018 following a challenging and courageous period of declining health. Mona was born on January 1, 1938, in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, the daughter of Raymond F. Blake and Iona Drew Blake, of Kittery Point.

Mona married Eric G. Gustafson in 1955, and together they lived in Portsmouth and Rye, New Hampshire, where they raised their three children. Over her working life, Mona was a bookkeeper, first in her family’s business, Blake Insurance Agency. She later worked for a fire protection company, owned her own craft shop, and worked for a dentist in central New Hampshire.

In 1996, Mona married Alan R. McCready. Together they lived in Allenstown, New Hampshire, until 2006 when they retired and moved to Unity. Mona had a passion for the Red Sox and rarely missed watching a game. She loved horses, enjoyed summer visits to Islesboro and loved her Newfoundland dogs.

Mona is survived by her children, Kristin A. Gustafson, of Windsor, Karen J. Edgeton, of Bay Lake, Minnesota, and Brian E. Gustafson and his wife, Bonnie, of Barrington, New Hampshire; grandchildren, Nathan A. Edgeton, Casey L. Edgeton and husband Michael Borzamate, Brittany M. Gustafson, and Eric B. Gustafson; and a great-grandchild, Ari J. Edgeton. She is also survived by step-children, Marie Pinto and husband Tony, Alan McCready and wife, Lily, Donna Nicholson and husband, John, Kristen Hayes and husband Scot; step-grandchildren, Meghan, Brittney, Mariah, Jacob, Danielle, Taylor, Sarah, Donovan and Logan; and step-great-grandchildren, Avery, Benjamin, Noah, and Hayden.

The family will have a private service in the spring.

Memorial contributions may be made to: Forgotten Felines of Maine, PO Box 264, Gouldsboro ME 04607

RANDAL L. REYNOLDS

UNITY – Randal L. Reynolds, 72, passed away at his home on Wednesday, December 5, 2018, following a long and courageous battle with Parkinsons Disease. He was born in Unity on May 31, 1946, the youngest son of Alton and Olive (Walton) Reynolds.

He was a 1964 graduate of Unity-Freedom High School. Randy was a hard worker and had many different jobs over the years. He worked at Northeast Shoe, in Pittsfield, and Ethan Allen, in Burnham, then worked for Sheridan Corporation, in Fairfield, for several years. He was a self-taught land surveyor and owned and operated Reynolds Land Surveying before his disease forced him to retire in 2012.

Randy married his high school sweetheart, Juanita Bryant, on October 18, 1963, and together they raised three children. He found great joy in attending events where his children and grandchildren, were involved. He particularly enjoyed spending holidays with his family. He took pride in teaching each of his grandchildren how to drive and liked to take credit for the skill that each of his daughters has in backing up with a horse trailer attached.

Randy enjoyed traveling and had fond memories of his trips to Florida and Alaska. In his younger days, he enjoyed week-long snowmobile trips to “The County”, and to Canada. For several years, he volunteered with the CHIPS (Child Identification Program) sponsored by the Masonic Lodge. Randy had a quick wit and a quirky sense of humor.

For several years, Randy was a member of the Unity Volunteer Fire Department and also Kennebec Proprietors. He was a member of the Snow Dusters Snowmobile Club, Star in the West Lodge Masonic Brotherhood, and Anah Temple Shriners.

Randy was predeceased by his parents; two sisters, Barbara Chadwick, and Mildred Sprague; two grandchildren, Matthew Reynolds and Michelle Reynolds.

He is survived by his son, Kevin and wife Debbie, of Fairfield; daughters Pamela Edwards and husband Bill, of Sabattus, and Cheryl Crummett and husband Mark, of Newcastle; three grandchildren, Gilson Edwards, Damon Crummett, and Taryn Crummett, and Damon’s special friend, Jayden Gilbert; three brothers, Alton Jr., of Unity, Donald and wife Pam, of St. Albans, and Forest, of Jefferson; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Arrangements were entrusted to the care of Smart & Edwards Funeral Home, 183 Madison Avenue, Skowhegan.

In lieu of flowers, Randy would rather you make a donation to the Maine Masonic Charitable Foundation, PO Box 430, Holden ME 04429 or Star in the West Lodge #85, Charitable Relief Fund, PO Box 577, Unity ME 04988

JEAN M. FORTIER

FAIRFIELD – Jean M. Fortier, 94, passed away Monday, December 3, 2018, at Mount Saint Joseph Resi­dence and Rehabilita­tion, in Water­ville. She was born February 21, 1924, in Fairfield, the daughter of the late Lloyd A. and Olive E. (Elmer) McAuley.

She graduated from Lawrence High School, in Fairfield, in 1940, where she played on the state champion basketball team and graduated from Thomas College, in Waterville, in 1941. She worked for Keyes Fibre Company, Central Maine Power Company, Thayer Hospital, in Waterville, and 49 years for Thomas Teague at his businesses. Jean was a member of the Fairfield United Methodist Church, also a member and past president of the Fairfield Women’s Club. She lived and dedicated her life to raising her four children.

Jean is survived by three children, Richard J. Fortier and wife Margaret, of Fairfield, Jane A. McQuillan and husband Billy, of Embden, Steven A. Fortier and wife Lynn, of Jacksonville, Florida; six grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; and two great-great- grandchildren

She was predeceased by her parents, Lloyd and Olive McAuley, of Fairfield; sister, Anita and husband Nelson Ward, of Winslow; brother Lloyd McAuley, of Greenfield, Massachusetts; her daughter, Carol and husband Gordon Meisenheimer of Meridian, Idaho.

In lieu of flowers, friends wishing may make donations in Jean’s memory to the Fairfield United Methodist Church, PO Box 313, Fairfield, ME 04937.

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

TERESA E. OLEYAR

FAIRFIELD – Teresa Ellen (Williams) Oleyar, 70, passed away on Tuesday, December 4, 2018, at MaineGeneral Rehabilitation and Nursing at Graybirch, in Augusta. She was born March 3, 1948, in Portland, the daughter of Theldon H. and Doris L. (Wood) Williams.

She attended South Portland High School and in 1970, she married David T. Oleyar, Jr., in South Portland. She was employed by Fairchild Semiconductor and was a devoted wife, mother, and homemaker. Teresa enjoyed watching TV and being with her grandchildren.

Teresa is survived by her husband of 48 years, David Oleyar, Jr., of Fairfield; son, David Oleyar III and wife Marilyn, of Norridgewock; daughter, Leanne, of Fairfield; two grandsons, Gabe, of Norridgewock, Leon, of Fairfield; granddaughter, Taylor, of Norridgewock, plus numerous nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her parents Theldon (Bud) and Doris; sisters, Loretta, Carol and Patty; brothers, Theldon and Robert.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, friends wishing may make donations in Teresa’s memory to the American Diabetes Association, PO Box 7023, Merrifield, VA 22116-7023.

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

OTHERS DEPARTED

CHRISTOPHER M. WINSLOW, 45, of Londonderry, New Hampshire, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, November 14, 2018, at his home. He was born in Waterville, and graduated from Cony High School, in Augusta. Locally, he is survived by his uncle Kelly Winslow and wife Jennifer and their children Makenzie and Camaron, all of Winslow

CHARLOTTE E. STEVENS, 94, of Augusta, passed away on Thursday, November 15, 2018, at the Augusta Center for Health & Rehabilitation. Locally, she is survived by a daughter Karen Stevens Willits, of Augusta, son Alan C. Stevens and wife Catherine Kimball, of Waterville, and brother Robert E. Clark and wife Barbara, of Jefferson.

EDWARD R. CARRELL, 87, of North Belgrade, passed away on Saturday, November 24, 2018, at MaineGeneral Long Term Care Facility at Glenridge Drive, in Auguata. Locally, he survived by a son, Robert Carrell and wife Linda, of Vassalboro.

IONA M. DONNELL, 90, of Augusta, passed away Thursday, November 29, 2018, at MaineGeneral Rehabilitation and Long-Term Care at Glenridge. Locally, she is survived by a daughter, Vickey Gray, of Windsor.

GEORGE W. CUMMINGS SR., 84, of Livermore Falls, passed away suddenly on Friday, November 30, 2018, at his home. Locally, he is survived by a daughter, Stacey Lynn Linehan and her husband Patrick, of Oakland.

JANET M. KOLLER, 74, of Clinton, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, December 5, 2018, at Eastern Maine Medical Center, in Bangor. Locally, she is survived by her husband Charles Koller, of Clinton; children Richard Koller, of Clinton, Sanda McCausland and husband Craig, of Vassalboro, and Stephen Koller, of Clinton.

Police chief’s job description finally approved

/0 Comments/in , /by
by Mary Grow

At their Dec. 6 meeting, Vassalboro selectmen finally approved the police chief’s job description they have been revising for the last couple months, with one final revision.

They also approved Town Manager Mary Sabins’ plan for a town staff pre-Christmas party.

Otherwise, they continued discussion of ongoing items, like emergency services dispatching, the role of the Budget Committee and potential solar power development and added a new – and expensive – topic, the Public Works Department’s aged grader and other needs.

The dispatching issue matters to emergency services in most Kennebec County municipalities because of proposed changes at the county and state level. Sabins expected to have more information for the selectmen’s Dec. 20 meeting, after a Kennebec County Commissioners’ meeting and a county town managers’ meeting at which she hopes the issue will be discussed.

At previous meetings, selectmen have been given preliminary information suggesting that in 2019-20 the cost of dispatching fire, rescue and police services could double, from about $30,000 a year to about $60,000 a year.

Public Works Foreman Eugene Field told selectmen the town’s 1991 grader needs a major repair that will cost around $23,000, plus $1,400 trucking to the repair shop, and should have another $5,000 to $10,000 worth of minor repairs while it’s being worked on.

A new grader would cost around $240,000, he said, a used one from $50,000 up, rental a little over $3,000 a week if a rental grader were available when the town crew needed it. Field and crew members use the grader for unpaved roads spring and fall, and it serves as a back-up for the plow trucks in case one breaks down.

Field also warned selectmen two large culverts need major work, either replacement or repair.

The discussion ended with selectmen commenting that Fields’ problems are even more expensive than the dispatching services they’ve been worrying about.

Budget Committee Chairman Rick Denico asked how that committee’s role is defined, pointing out that last year’s pre-town-meeting discussions strayed into policy issues, like considering whether to abolish the local police department rather than merely how much it should cost.

Vassalboro residents apparently established the committee many years ago without a job description or other rules, Sabins said.

Board member John Melrose has been looking into the possibility of installing solar panels on the roof of the Riverside Fire Station. He said he received one proposal that afternoon.

Melrose suggested selectmen ask town meeting voters for authorization to proceed with exploring the topic. If voters approve, he wants to look into more than one option, as competition appears to be developing.

The next regular Vassalboro selectmen’s meeting is scheduled for Thursday evening, Dec. 20.