Covers towns roughly within 50 miles of Augusta.

Camden National Bank promotes Barbara Raths

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Barbara Raths

Camden National Bank is pleased to announce the promotion of Barbara Raths, who formerly served as director of treasury management and government banking, to executive vice president of commercial banking. In her elevated role, Raths will focus on accelerating core commercial business development across the company’s footprint and will continue to lead treasury management sales and service strategies.

“Barbara has an unwavering commitment to her clients,” said Simon Griffiths, president and chief executive officer of Camden National Bank. “Her client-centric approach will lead us to expand our relationship banking focus as we continue to drive organic growth. Barbara’s promotion represents our strategic and thoughtful succession planning as well as the exceptional talent and bench strength within our organization. I am confident Barbara will make an excellent addition to our executive team.”

A leading industry expert, Raths has an extensive 20-year banking and finance career, with four of those years cultivating treasury relationships at Camden National Bank. She has taken on increasing levels of leadership with an exceptional focus on delivering integrated financial solutions, prudent risk management, and operational excellence.

Raths earned a bachelor’s degree in Rhetoric at Bates College, in Lewiston, and an MBA with a finance concentration from the University of Southern Maine. She is chairman of the Board of Trustees for the Maine Health and Higher Educational Facilities Authority, serves as the Secretary of the Board of Directors for the Maine International Trade Center, and is a member of the Maine District Export Council.

Scholarship application open for public high school seniors

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The Worthington Scholarship Foundation is excited to announce their 2024 scholarship application is now open. Students graduating from a Maine public high school who meet the eligibility requirements may apply.

To complete an application, students must have a high school GPA of a C- or higher and a Student Aid Index (SAI) of $20,000 or less as determined by FAFSA. They must also attend a Worthington-eligible college the fall semester after their graduation and be a Maine resident.

The Worthington Scholarship Foundation partners with Bates, Bowdoin, Colby, Husson, Maine Maritime Academy, Thomas, the University of Maine system, and the Maine Community College system.

Applications are due April 15, 2024. To learn more and apply, visit their website worthingtonscholars.org.

The Worthington Scholarship Foundation provides multi-year scholarships.

For more information, please visit www.worthington­scholars.­org.

New Dimensions FCU staff, members raise $25,208 to end hunger

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From left to right, New Dimensions Federal Credit Union CEO Ryan Poulin, Dianne Bourgoin, David Alberico. (contributed photo)

Through dedicated teamwork and community support, New Dimensions Federal Credit Union (NDFCU) raised $25,208.19 for the 2023 Maine Credit Union League’s Campaign for Ending Hunger. Their fundraising efforts will directly support local food banks and pantries serving families struggling with hunger.

NDFCU employees organized a variety of creative fundraising events over several months, including raffles, dress-down days, car washes, and food sales. Their generous members also contributed however they could – whether through larger donations or simply purchasing treats in the branch. Small donations added up through the power of collective action.

“Our staff and members really came together with compassion for our local communities facing food insecurity,” said Ryan Poulin, CEO. “The credit union philosophy of ‘people helping people’ was on full display throughout the year. We’re grateful for everyone who donated their time and resources to make a difference.”

NDFCU’s contribution helped the statewide credit union campaign smash its $1 million goal by raising an impressive total of $1.22 million. The credit union remains committed to ongoing fundraising and volunteer efforts to continue supporting Maine communities through challenges with access to nutritious food.

Crommett promoted at Maine State CU

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Amanda Crommett

Stephen Wallace, President and CEO of Maine State Credit Union, has announced the promotion of Amanda Crommett to Senior Vice President, Chief Organizational Developmental Officer. In this newly-created role, Crommett will oversee the training and development team and help to guide the continued growth of credit union.

“Amanda has been with the credit union for 18 years,” said Wallace. “During this time, she has worked in a variety of roles and has been an advocate for the creation of a workplace environment that focuses on the growth and development of all employees at all levels. This is not an easy task and in her new role, she will lead the charge to build the tools and resources that we need to maintain a strong culture as we expand across the state of Maine and have employees in different locations.”

Crommett started her career at Maine State Credit Union in the collections department and then moved to the lending department as a consumer loan officer. She then moved to the sales and service group, where she helped to develop training plans and eventually was selected to build the training and organizational development team, which has now expanded to four.

“I am passionate about helping others become the best versions of themselves,” said Crommett. “I am excited to be asked to take the lead in building a world-class organizational development group. Now, more than ever, it is important for employees to feel empowered and given the tools, training, and opportunity to grow. As Maine State Credit Union expands, and we have employees all over the state of Maine, it is critical for everyone to feel valued and connected. I am humbled to be selected to lead the charge.”

Crommett is a lifelong learner. She attends Southern New Hampshire University where she is studying organization psychology. She is a graduate of the Institute of Organizational Development and is a certified Myers-Briggs practitioner. Crommett lives in Manchester and can be found cheering for her children at their sporting events and exploring the grand state of Maine.

Nikia Levesque appointed vice president of jewelry association

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Nikia Levesque

The Women’s Jewelry Association (WJA) announces the appointment of Nikia Levesque as the vice president of the WJA Foundation. With nearly a decade of experience in the jewelry industry, Nikia brings a profound dedication to advancing women’s careers and a proven track record of leadership and innovation.

Susan Chandler, President of the Women’s Jewelry Association and Chief Merchandising Officer for Citizen Watch America, expressed her enthusiasm about Nikia Levesque’s appointment, stating, “Nikia brings a dynamic blend of industry expertise and unwavering commitment to empowering women. Her leadership will undoubtedly propel the WJA Foundation’s mission forward, inspiring countless women to reach new heights in their jewelry careers.”

Nikia’s journey in the profession is marked by excellence in jewelry retail. In high school, Nikia began her jewelry journey at Day’s Jewelers, in Waterville, in the service department. Her expertise spans marketing strategy, brand management, social media marketing, and customer relationship management. In addition to her WJA board appointment, Nikia is the vice president of marketing at Day’s Jewelers, where she demonstrates exceptional leadership in overseeing the company’s brand strategy, market development, and advertising initiatives.

Throughout her Day’s Jewelers tenure, Nikia spearheaded numerous successful projects, including the seamless launch of a new Shopify website, developing a comprehensive brand book, and the coordination of strategic partnerships with brands like Sea Bags. She played a pivotal role in the platform migration and build of the company’s current website. Her ability to lead cross-functional teams and drive results has been instrumental in elevating Day’s Jewelers’ brand presence and achieving key organizational objectives. Levesque was recognized as part of the Jewelers of America, Class of 2023, 20 Under 40.

Levesque says, “I am deeply honored to assume the role of vice president for the Women’s Jewelry Association Foundation Board. This organization has a rich history of empowering women in the jewelry industry, and I am committed to advancing its mission of fostering education, mentorship, and opportunities for women. Having started in this industry at the young age of 16, I am particularly grateful for the invaluable guidance and support I received from women who paved the way before me. Now, as I step into this leadership role, I am eager to give back and continue learning from the remarkable women in our industry. Together with the dedicated members of the board, I look forward to contributing to the growth and success of WJA, as we continue to inspire and support women in our vibrant and dynamic industry.”

Kennebec Valley Council of Governments names Joel Greenwood executive director

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Joel Greenwood, from the Kennebec Valley Council of Governments. (photo by Eric Austin)

The Kennebec Valley Council of Governments (KVCOG) has announced that its board of directors has appointed Joel Greenwood as executive director.

Eric Dyer, KVCOG Board of Director’s President and Town Manager of Readfield, announced “We are excited for the opportunity to bring one of our most talented and experienced employees into the executive director role on a permanent basis. Joel is already well known to our membership and fully aware of KVCOG operations and services, which will result in a near seamless transition for the organization.”

Dyer added, “In his new position Joel’s expertise as a planner will strengthen KVCOG’s essential role in supporting regional and local planning initiatives and provide deliberate and thoughtful leadership.

“I am very happy to be able to step up on a permanent basis to lead KVCOG as its next executive director, ” Greenwood said. “My long tenure and experience in the organization will make the transition as smooth and quick as possible. I’m grateful to continue working with the exceptional team at KVCOG that provides high-quality and valuable services to the municipalities of the Kennebec Valley.”

“As an organization, KVCOG will continue to look for new ways to assist communities across the region.” Greenwood succeeds Matthew Underwood, who tendered his resignation to the board of directors in late January. Joel has been with KVCOG since 2011 and has had more than 20 years of experience in nonprofit work, redevelopment, economic development in rural communities and all aspects of rural and urban planning. His years of experience in all aspects of KVCOG’s operations, existing relationships with its members and as an admired mentor and leader to the KVCOG team translates to a bright future for KVCOG and its member municipalities.

Laura Jones announces candidacy for House

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Laura Jones

Laura Jones, retired Air Force Lieutenant Colonel, and Vassalboro native, has announced her election campaign for House District #61, in Vassalboro and part of Sidney.

“Vassalboro has always been where my heart is and where I was happy to return to. I served my country for 25 years and now I am happy to serve my community. I will continue to work as hard as I can in Augusta for the people of Vassalboro and Sidney.” said Jones.

Jones, 52, a fourth generation Vassalboro resident, was born in Waterville and raised in Vassalboro. Jones served 25 years in the military, with deployments and assignments to Haiti, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Japan. She currently works at her family’s business, Fieldstone Gardens, in Vassalboro. She has been very active in the community helping organize and promote community events for the Vassalboro Historical Society, Grange, Mill and Vassalboro Business Association. She currently serves on the Board of the Vassalboro Historical Society and is their treasurer.

“Laura’s contributions to the community since retiring from military service are commendable and her life experiences will serve her well in Augusta,” said Barbara Redmond, former Vassalboro selectperson. “Laura is an excellent candidate and will do a great job representing the residents of Vassalboro and part of Sidney in the legislature”.

Visit Laura Jones on Facebook and her campaign website.

SMASH delivers exuberant performance in Monmouth

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From left to right, Peter Maxwell, as Orlando, Isla Granholm as Rosalind, and Mary Herman, as Celia. (photo by Eric W. Austin)

by Eric W. Austin

This past weekend, I was lucky enough to attend the opening night performance of the Southern Maine Association of Shakespearean Homeschoolers’ production of As You Like It at the Cumston Hall theater, in Monmouth.

The play is one of Shakespeare’s most accessible comedies and the plot rushes forward on the wings of witty dialogue, clever plot twists and engaging characters. Its story centers around young Orlando, played ably by Peter Maxwell, who exudes a youthful and relatable vulnerability appropriate to the character.

Peter Maxwell as Orlando and James Maxwell as Charles (contributed photo)

Orlando is the youngest son of recently deceased Sir Rowland de Boys. His older brother, Oliver, played by Jacob Sullivan, treats Orlando badly and withholds his inheritance and education. In an effort to escape from under his brother’s shadow and seek his own fortune, Orlando enters a wrestling match against an intimidating opponent, Charles. The play opens on this dramatic scene as Orlando faces off against Charles, played by James Maxwell, who embodies the brutish and haughty Charles with scary authenticity. Oliver prevails but attracts the attention of the villainous Duke Frederick, who has usurped the throne from his brother, Duke Senior. Fearing for his life, Orlando escapes to the nearby Forest of Ardenne.

Meanwhile, Rosalind, daughter of the exiled Duke Senior and niece of the evil Duke Frederick, attends the wrestling match and catches the eye of Orlando, who quickly falls for her, but Rosalind soon finds her own life in danger from her conniving uncle. She too flees to the forest, disguised as a man, along with her cousin, the lady Celia.

Rosalind is played by the talented Isla Granholm, and Celia by Mary Herman. The chemistry between the two is the highlight of the show, and they light up the theater whenever they are on stage together. The plot twists and turns from here, with Shakespeare’s dialogue and clever wordplay ensuring there is never a dull moment.

Left-to-right: Annie Herman, Mary Herman as Celia, Ethan Bean as Touchstone, and Isla Granholm as Rosalind (photo by Eric W. Austin)

The entire cast, under the capable direction of Sam Richards, captures the secret of delivering an entertaining small theater experience: they have fun with the material and that fun is infectious.

The costumes are bright and colorful, helping to make each character distinct and recognizable. The stage sets, though minimal, perfectly capture the scenes without getting in the way, and Director Richards smartly includes some extra narration to help the audience follow the action, although I found the actors’ excellent delivery meant this was rarely necessary.

The play itself contains some of the Bard’s most unforgettable lines, such as, “All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players”, uttered by the character of Jaques, played by Orrin Frederick. My favorite was a line proclaimed with comedic brilliance by Isla Granholm, as Rosalind: “Do you not know I am a woman? When I think, I must speak.”

Ethan Bean as Touchstone and Micah Wolf as Audrey (contributed photo)

The play is filled with witty lines like these, delivered with infectious exuberance by the young cast. Other notable performances include Ethan Bean as the jester, Touchstone, who has some of the best lines. Micah Wolf plays his love interest, Audrey, who, although a minor character, nevertheless manages to delight every time she appears and deserves special mention. Rachel Maxwell also dazzles with ethereal beauty in her role as Hymen, the goddess of marriage.

Overall, this was an excellent adaptation of one of Shakespeare’s best comedies, filled with witty banter, romantic hijinks, clever disguises and political intrigue. The historic Cumston Hall, in Monmouth, is the perfect venue for this type of small theater experience, with its majestic interior design, excellent acoustics and intimate feel.

Anyone who enjoys the poetic brilliance of Shakespeare and the intimacy of local theater will enjoy this performance. Luckily, the production has two more shows this weekend, on Friday, February 16, at 6:30 p.m., and a final afternoon show on Saturday, February 17, at 2 p.m. Tickets are $8 and available for purchase at the door or online at smashmaine.jimdofree.com/tickets/.

Cumston Hall is located at 796 Main Street, in Monmouth.

(contributed photo)

UNE announces dean’s list (2023)

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The University of New England, in Biddeford, has announced the following local students who achieved the dean’s list for the fall semester 2023:

Parker Higgins, Albion; Jessica Guerrette, Molly Mercier, Daraun White and Julie White, all of Fairfield; Alonna Battis and Caitlyn Mayo, both of Fairfield; Mallory Audette, of Jefferson; Mckenzie Kunesh, of Liberty; Katrina Barney, of Madison; Mackenzie Bertone, of Norridgewock; Brady Doucette, of Sidney; Wylie Bedard, Elizabeth Connelly, Catherine Kelso, Zoe Lambke, Ashley Mason and Dawson Turcotte, all of Skowhegan; Alexis Rancourt and Richard Winn, both of South China; Adam Ochs, Vassalboro; Asher Grazulis, Nabila Harrington, Emma Michaud, Elias Nawfel, Grace Petley, Lauren Pinnette, and Emilee Richards, all of Waterville; and Willa Dolley, Juliann Lapierre, and Justice Picard, all of Winslow.

EVENTS: Maple Sunday weekend slated for March 23-24, 2024

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The Maine Maple Producers Association (MMPA) is pleased to announce the 41st Maine Maple Sunday Weekend on March 23-24, 2024. A favorite annual event, visitors are welcomed at local sugarhouses to celebrate Maine’s maple syrup in as many ways as possible.

“As always, our members are thrilled to host Maine Maple Sunday – maple producers are preparing creative ways to share their love of all things maple,” said Lyle Merrifield, president of the MMPA. “Over 100 sugar houses will be open in 15 counties, some on Sunday only, but many for the whole weekend so everyone can enjoy some sweetness.”

Activities vary from sugarhouse to sugarhouse. Many offer demonstrations of tree tapping, boiling, filtering, bottling and sugarbush tours, and some are offering horse-drawn wagon rides, farm animals to pet, full pancake breakfasts, live music and family-friendly activities. There will be many maple products to sample or purchase like maple syrup, maple candies, nuts, baked goods and popcorn.

Considered a tasty treat and preferred cooking ingredient by many, new research shows maple syrup’s advantages over other sweeteners, like refined sugar.

“Researchers from Québec and the University of Rhode Island have been investigating the potential health benefits of maple syrup, as compared to other sweeteners,” said Jason Lilley, the state’s maple industry educator for the University of Maine Cooperative Extension.

“Prior work had identified that pure maple syrup contains over 100 compounds such as vitamins and minerals, amino acids, phytohormones, and 67 phenolic compounds including many polyphenols. A recent clinical trial confirmed the suspicions that substituting other sweeteners with pure maple syrup increased participants’ glucose tolerance, meaning their bodies better managed their blood sugar levels after eating. Participants who consumed maple syrup instead of other sweeteners also had lowered blood pressure. Who knew that Maine’s official sweetener could not only support local businesses, taste delicious, and be a climate smart food product, but it’s good for you, too!”

To find a sugarhouse to visit, see the MMPA website for the full list of participating sugarhouses and their hours.

Since 1983, Maine Maple Sunday Weekend® has attracted thousands of visitors annually to sugarhouses throughout the state. Many producers create the four different varieties of maple syrup — golden with delicate flavor, amber with rich flavor, dark with robust flavor, and very dark color with strong flavor. These varieties are not often found in grocery stores and have different flavor profiles and uses.

The MMPA represents more than 250 of the 450 producers licensed to sell maple products in Maine. The majority of Maine’s producers are small, artisan businesses that focus on flavor over volume production.