WINDSOR: Lengthy discussion on police presence in town

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by The Town Line staff

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

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

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

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

Window Dressers create affordable window inserts

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

by Roberta Barnes

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

(photo by Roberta Barnes)

Windsor benefit concert

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Photo by Roberta Barnes

by Roberta Barnes

When was the last time you enjoyed a live concert put on by experienced, highly-skilled musicians and singers for a worthy cause?

Friday evening, August 16, a concert upstairs in the Windsor Town Hall was a musical tribute paid to the life and music of Nat King Cole. The enjoyable music the Downeast Brass Quintet played is part of this country’s musical history.

This concert, with superb music and narrations on the life of Nat King Cole, born in 1919, was free. The donations jar on the table near the entrance was for the Maine Lung Association. The musicians donated their time and talents. This was an excellent way to celebrate the American Lung Association’s 120th anniversary.

Nat King Cole (Nathaniel Adams Cole) the American singer, jazz pianist, and actor who made television history in 1956, unfortunately, was a smoker. In 1965 at the height of his stardom, when he was only 45 years old, lung cancer ended his life.

The concert began at 7 p.m., but musicians were present doing sound checks around 6 p.m. Andy Foster, on trumpet and sang, Peter Suart, on trumpet, Dwight Tibbetts, on trumpet and piano, Rick Gadway, on trumpet, Loren Fields, on French Horn and sang. Michael Peterson, on trombone, Erica Scarano, on tuba, Andrea Buckland, on banjo and guitar, Richard LaChance, on percussion, and Dakota Ryder, who sang, made up the group of skilled and experienced musicians.

The concert began with background piano music while Marianne Tibbets gave the first of several short narrations on the life and career of Cole. She also managed the slides appearing on a large screen that related to the narrations she gave.

One of the first songs in the concert, Straighten up and Fly Right, written by Nat King Cole and Irving Mills, became part of the soundtrack in a 1943 movie and was the first of vocal hits for the King Cole Trio.

Each narration was followed by songs selected from Cole’s hits. Most of those attending could feel their body naturally moving, if only a hand or foot, with rhythm of the music that filled the town hall. Each song was followed with smiles, clapping by those attending, and at the end of the two-hour concert a standing ovation.

At some time you no doubt have heard the phrase “Route 66”. One of the songs played was, Get Your Kicks on Rte. 66, which became the iconic American road song first recorded in 1946.

When Tibbetts was explaining that in the 1950s Cole emerged as a popular solo performer she introduced Ron Marlowe, who lives in Maine. He shared that in 1950 he happened to be in the same building where Cole was practicing. Cole came to the floor where he was and gave him and another boy musical tips. On the table near the door was a photograph of Ron and another boy standing on either side of Cole.

One of the songs in the concert was Cole’s version of Mona Lisa, released in 1950. In the middle of this selection Ryder and another woman did a dance routine to the musical beat. This produced extra smiles and clapping from those attending.

The concert ended with a selection of Cole’s music different than his jazz. The song, Those Lazy-Hazy-Crazy Days of Summer, was Cole’s final top ten hit.

Following the standing ovation at the end of the concert everyone enjoyed refreshments provided by Windsor’s Ladies Aid. They were a varied selection of snack foods and beverages designed to fit different people’s diet restrictions.

The amazing music of the evening gave such positive energy that no one was in a hurry to leave.

EVENTS: Windsor Fair set for Aug. 24 – Sept. 2

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Maine’s second largest agricultural fair will be offering harness racing, Rockwell Amusements Midway, exhibition hall, historical museum, livestock, demo derbies, truck/tractor/livestock pull events, live music, agricultural education and more

General Admission: Children 11 and Under Free, Ages 12 and up: $12, Wednesday, August 28, half Price $6 and half price Ride Bracelet Day

Hours daily are 9 a.m. – 10 p.m., Saturday, August 24 – Sunday, September 1, 9 a.m.,- 6 p.m., Monday, September 2 (Labor Day).

Season Passes $70 at gates 1 & 4.

Senior Days (60+) $5 on Monday, August 26, andThursday, August 29. Veteran’s Day Thursday, August 29 with valid Military ID.

No pets allowed, no glass, alcohol or weapons.

Parking is always FREE.

Ride bracelets are available Sunday – Friday andLabor Day $30 (half price Wednesday). Rides start at 3 p.m. weekdays, noon on weekends and Labor Day, ride until 10 p.m.; Labor Day, noon – 6 p.m..

Harness racing post times weekends, 1 p.m., weekdays at noon. No harness racing on Wednesday.

See the full program at www.windsorfair.com for schedule of events, entertainment lineup, contact information and premium book for all entry information.

Windsor select board elects William Appel Jr., chairman; introduce Nichole Stenberg as new town assessor

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by The Town Line staff

At the beginning of the June 18 Windsor Select Board meeting, Town Manager Theresa Haskell said the first order of business was to elect a board chairman.

The first count was Thomas McNaughton, two votes, William Appel Jr., two votes and Chester D. Barnes, one vote. A second vote gave Appel three votes and became the board’s new chairman.

Town Assessor Vern Ziegler introduced Nichole Stenberg from Dirigo Assessing who will be the town’s new assessor’s agent. Stenberg worked for Maine Revenue Service in the past and has over 20 years of experience in property tax.

Road Supervisor Keith Hall reported there was money left in the roadside mowing account and will be having Chris Pierce and Nathan Northrup do sections in town. They use different equipment and have different pricing options. Hall also reported the Amish signs have been put in place.

Talks with Lucas Striping indicated the price will be the same as last year: $.07 for white lines, and $.14 for double yellow lines per foot.

Scott Peaslee will be doing the job on the transfer station wall at a cost of $12,000.

Julia Hartwell appeared before the board to ask that a container be allowed at the town office for Boy Scout Pack #609 to collect bottles as a fundraiser. The board approved with the stipulation that it be placed in a location that would not interfere with plowing during the winter.

David Landmann expressed an interest in being a regular member of the planning board for a three-year term.

The board also approved several appointments. Kim Bolduc-Bartlett at back up animal control officer to 2025; Richard H. Gray Jr. and Thomas Reed, to 2027, Cemetery Committee members, Robert Holt and Laurie Thomas to 2027, board of appeals members; Bonnie Squiers and Heather Wilson to 2027, Windsor Educational Foundation and Reed Fund member; Chester D. Barnes Sr. and Adrian Prindle to 2027, Conservation Commission Committee member; Katherine Johnson to 2025, tax collecter; and David Landmann to 2027, planning board member.

Ryan Carver was appointed animal control officer for one year, and Arthur Strout was appointed as building inspector for one year.

Dwight Tibbetts is interested in holdinjg a benefit concert for the American Lung Association in the town hall. There was much discussion on the building use policy and concerns about the limit of 75 people. This was tabled to the next meeting.

Chairman Appel received an anonymous letter from a group called Concerned Citizens of Windsor regarding some concerns they have within the town. Thomas McNaughton said he welcomes comments, while Chester D. Barnes Jr. said he felt threatened. Appel invited anyone with concerns to attend a select board meeting and encourages the involvement to address these conerns with the board members.

Appel said he received a letter from McKee Morgan Law Firm regarding an incorrect designation of a road name, “Landworks Lane”, and would like to have this on the agenda for the next meeting to include all parties involved, including the codes enforcement officer, Arthur Strout, and assistant codes enforcement officer Greg Feltis.

Appel also said the planning board has been getting new site plan review applications and there has been discussion of possibly some solar farm applications, and there would be some training involved.

Finally, Barnes asked when a meeting will be set up with C. B. Haskell Fuel Co., Inc., regarding the town hall heat pumps. According to Haskell, they have been contacted and is waiting for them to set up a date.

* * * * * *

At a special board of selectmen meeting on June 27, Town Manager Theresa Haskell indicated that it looks like the transfer station budget will come up short and that money will need to be moved to cover.

The select board also accepted the resignation of transfer station committee member Barbara Seaver-West.

Most of the rest of the meeting was spent when transfer station committee chairman John Deeds received a letter from the Concerned Citizens of Windsor Group. He stated he has dealt with threatening letters from the state before and asks that this group come and join the transfer station committee to help them as a group. No time was set for the meeting.

Deeds also asked the select board how they can slow down traffic on Rte. 105 heading towards Somerville. Once they enter Hussey’s intersection, “they are going 80 to 90 mph past his house,” and he is the next house near the Windsor Volunteer Fire Department. The select board said they have no authority to slow down people, but anyone can contact the State Police or Sheriff’s Department. Deeds said he has done that and sometimes they even sit at the WVFD, but nothing happens. Haskell said Patsy Crockett, Commissioner for Kennebec County, will attend the July 30 meeting and that issue can be addressed with her at that time.

Finally, there was discussion about having a policy on how public comment at meetings is overseen, and how to move the meetings along. This was tabled to a future select board meeting.

* * * * * *

At their regular meeting on July 2, the Windsor Select Board reviewed a Department of Transportatin proposal for signs to benefit traffic flow along Rte. 17 – Augusta-Rockland Rd. Town Manager Theresa Haskell gave a handout with a map showing the proposed placement of the signs. DOT will purchase the signs if public works places them in the designated area.

As a following up to Dwight Tibbetts’ request to hold a concern to benefit the American Lung Association at the town hall, a copy of the building use policy was distributed to the board. The policy will be reviewed by the board and discussed at a future meeting.

The town attorney recommended the building at 762 Ridge Road be designated a dangerous building. The owner is not currently living on the property. Codes Enforcement Officer Arthur Strout will submit a letter to the select board to state reasons.

Several residents appeared before the board to express their opinions on the Landworks Lane controversy.

Chris Oberg, Johannah Oberg, and Paul Bernier gave their reasons to keep the name. Bernier indicated he has maintained the road for over 20 years and is running his business off the road. All three state they only followed directions when they were asked by the town to name the road.

However, Alan Aronson, a resident of Griffin Road, stated he owns part of what is now Landworks Lane and that he and his wife, Darcy, had no say in naming the road, saying they were not OK with that.

Following lengthy discussion, the board approved placing signage on Griffin Road near the Landworks Lane Road entrance, from both directions, to direct traffic to Landworks Lane. The road sign Landworks Lane will be moved back to the property line of Paul Bernier, and Johannah and Chris Oberg. There will be no name placed for the right of way beginning at Gtiffin Road at this time as there are no homes on the property to warrant naming the section of road.

Nancy Fish spoke again about concerns of the pit on Hunts Meadow Road that borders her land. Nancy was looking for some clarification of the Site Plan Ordinance for pits. Barnes again suggested she bring her concerns to the planning board. CEO Strout was present and said he can check to see if the pit is less than five acres. If it is more than five acres, the state of Maine would need to be involved with her concerns.

In other business the board approved a McNaughton motion to change the pricing on building permits for residential to $75 plus $.05 per square foot and $150 for commercial plus $.05 per square foot, effective immediately.

Haskell made three more appointments, Dan West as a regular planning board member to 2027, Thomas Leonard as an alternate planning board member to 2026, and Richard H. Gray Jr., as a transfer station committee member to 2026.

The board accepted the resignation of Joshua Briggs from the transfer station.

Windsor select board deals with multiple agenda items

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by The Town Line staff

At the May 21, 2024 meeting of the Windsor Select Board, Road supervisor Keith Hall reported on several repairs being done to town equipment. Also select board member Tom McNaughton asked Keith for an update on the Amish signs. Keith said he had gotten prices on the signs and that is as far as he had gone with the project. Keith said he had not gotten the final answer to order signs. Moira Teekema added she had conversations with the Amish, they were happy with the selected locations discussed for placement for the signs. After some discussion, Thomas McNaughton made a motion to purchase five Amish signs and Chevron signs for the corner on Coopers Mills Road by Piper Road, seconded by Chester D. Barnes and approved 5-0-0.

From the transfer station, Keith reported the following:

a.) Freon units have been picked up from the Transfer Station.
b.) Maine Scale LLC will be coming to calibrate the scales at the Transfer Station on 5/30/24.
c.) Transfer Station employees Hunter, Allison, Dan, and Amelia, who covers for the transfer station, completed Core 1 training virtually. Core 1 training helps employees gain a better understanding of department regulations and concerns, learn methods of operation that achieve compliance and improve efficiency.

On behalf of animal control office Ryan Carver, town manager Theresa Haskell reported there is an issue on Rte. 105 of cows getting out. Ryan has been to the residences four times in 15 days. One time the cows made it all the way to Wingood Road. There were reports of the cows going head on with cars on Rte. 105. The owner says the deer keeps knocking his fence over. The town ordinance is a fine up to $500 payable to the town per call. Carver would like to know the select boards suggestion to enforce this. The select board will ask Carver to be available at a future meeting for more discussion.

In other business, Haskell reported the following.

– Theresa has a Certificate of Appointment for Greg Feltis for the position of E-911 Alternate Addressing Officer, to be effective until a new Alternate Addressing Officer is appointed. Chester D. Barnes Jr. made a motion to sign the Certificate of Appointment for Greg Feltis appointed as E-911 Alternate Addressing Officer effective until a new Alternate Addressing officer is appointed, seconded by Thomas McNaughton and approved 5-0-0.
– Ray Bates reviewed the Town Hall’s water results received by Water Quality & Compliance Inc. The water test results were normal.
– Theresa read aloud a letter from Lake Stewards of Maine requesting $500 in funds from the town to support water testing. Theresa will send back a response to the request.
– The Safety Grant Press Release will be posted on the website for the town to view.
– Friday June 28, 2024, is the last day of FY 2024. The town office will be closing at noon to get all reports and books closed for FY 2024. Andrew Ballantyne made a motion to close the town office at noon on June 28, 2024, for office staff to get all reporting and books closed by the end of day for FY year 2024.
– A handout was given to the Select Board regarding the Ridge Road property. There will be discussion at a later date when the select board has time to look over what the town’s attorney has drafted. There is currently no other information to give on the property.
– The Kennebec County budget began at 44.1 percent and after several meetings and discussion about the final budget it is now down to 28.9 percent.
– The select board was handed a copy of the Public Works monthly 4-day work week schedule. It was noted that public works will swap their day off if their day off falls on a holiday so they can still get paid for that holiday.

Tim had questions about signing the smoking policy. He asked for clarification before he signed anything. He would like to see it amended. The select board assured Tim that there was zero finger pointing intended when the memo and the smoking policy were sent to be signed by all employees.

The memo was initiated from a letter that was left anonymously by a resident. The select board thought at the time it was an opportunity to remind all employees of the smoking policy. Allison Wynot wanted to comment that confidentiality should not be broken. With no details, she said she believes that confidentiality has been broken to her in public.

Chester D. Barnes Sr. would like to arrange a Conservation Committee meeting sooner than later. Haskell and Chester looked at the calendar and a date of June 17, 2024, at 6 p.m. was set. They will reach out to other committee members with the date and time.

Haskell received a resignation letter from Moria Teekema, resigning from both the transfer station committee as secretary and resigning from the Conservation Committee. Chester D. Barnes Jr. made a motion to accept Moria Teekema’s resignation from both the transfer station committee as secretary and from the Conservation Committee, seconded by Andrew Ballantyne and accepted 5-0-0.

Tom Reed noted the walls upstairs at the town hall looked a mess. Discussion about town hall use and the cost it would take to keep fixing and painting the walls because residents put holes and peel the paint, also the cost of tables and chairs that get broken and need to be replaced. More discussion will follow at a future meeting about the town hall use policy and if that should be updated.

Tom McNaughton updated he has not seen a new contract come through from Delta Ambulance Service. He has also not heard any response regarding being on the board for Delta.

Andrew Ballantyne gave a brief update about the power line restarting their engine on Renewable Wind Energy. The best advice that is being passed around to towns is to be sure your ordinances are in place, and you have a strong comprehensive plan. William Appel Jr. said we will need to devote time to the comprehensive plan.

Windsor 10-year-old is cancer survivor

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Owen and family at a Celtics game. (contributed photo)

by Mark Huard

Owen Gosselin is a 10-year-old boy from Windsor. He is a little league player, a beloved son and brother and a student. Owen is also a survivor of cancer. Over the last year, Owen and his family have been fighting a battle.

Owen Gosselin ready for the game. (contributed photo)

In December, Owen was diagnosed with Ependymoma grade 3, a cancerous brain tumor. He had a successful resection surgery at Boston Children’s Hospital this past January, followed by six weeks of radiation. The surgeon was able to successfully remove the whole tumor. Owen has worked hard to recover and regain his strength. He resumed playing sports this spring for the Capital Area Little League.

Owen’s mother, Melissa, reached out to someone she knew that helps raise funds for this cause. She became connected to Kelly’s Cause for Brain Tumor Fundraising. Kelly’s dad died from brain cancer shortly after she graduated high school. She went to college for occupational therapy, and after she graduated and got a job, she wanted to do more. She began fundraising for the national brain tumor society by hosting a 5k, which then evolved into multiple events a year along with the 5k. In 11 years they have raised $184,000 for the national brain tumor society and the last few years have been donating to local families as well.

Three years into fundraising, Kelly started a small committee of family and friends committed to helping. All of the members are in the Augusta area and the only group of people in Maine to raise money for this cause. Over the years, Kelly’s Cause has gone to Washington, DC, to advocate to congress about funding NIH for cancer research, and to share a lot of information with the community about brain cancer.

It is no surprise this disease tears into families emotionally, physically and financially. Knowing this, the group provided Owen’s family with support. They hosted an event for their family to provide funds for the family and all of their travel to treatment. They had to stop working quickly, so this support was done to try to reduce the financial stress.

Kelly’s Cause has raised $184,000 for local families and The National Brain Tumor Society. Kelly’s Cause was recognized at Augusta’s Little League opening. Coach Ryan Conrad asked the board if they would allow Owen to throw out the first pitch on opening day May 11, 2024. Everyone is so proud of Owen and so thankful for Kelly and her cause.

Kelly’s Cause for Brain Tumors has upcoming events including a golf event at Natanis Golf Course, in Vassalboro, on Friday, June 21, and a 5k on Sunday, July 21, at the Augusta rail trail. More detailed information for these events are on Kelly’s cause for brain tumors Facebook page.

Katrina Smith announces re-election bid campaign

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Katrina Smith

Maine State Representative Katrina Smith, District #62, has announced the launch of her re-election campaign to the Maine State House. Elected in 2022, Rep. Smith has served the last session on the Inno­vation, Development, Economic Advancement and Business Committee overseeing Economic development, licensing and growth initiatives for the state of Maine.

“I will continue to be a voice for the people of my district and have been so grateful for their ongoing support and encouragement. I am always available to my constituents and no matter the political party will continue to tackle the problems that are important to them,” Smith said.

“I look forward to continuing to represent the towns of China, Palermo, Somerville, Windsor and Hibberts Gore and hope to talk to as many people as possible during the campaign season!”

Katrina can be reached at katrinaformaine@gmail.com, at 207-230-9583 or on her facebook page: Representative Katrina Smith.

Anchor ME Farm offers non-clinical goat therapy activities

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Snuggling with a couple of the goats. (photo by Jeanne Marquis)

by Jeanne Marquis

A local goat farm, in Windsor, is offering non-clinical therapy activities with their goats for people with PTSD, anxiety, and depression. The farm, called ” Anchor-ME Farm,” owned by Cara and Brian Cribb, is home to goats, ducks, geese and dogs. The goats are all friendly and well-socialized, and they love to interact with people of all ages.

The Anchor-ME farm, located at 584 Ridge Road, Windsor, offers a variety of non-clinical therapy activities, including:

• Goat yoga: Goat yoga will be returning soon. The first class will take place on Thursday, May 9, 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. Jessica will be teaching and the goats will be cuddly and hysterical as usual. Get your tickets through Eventbrite or email – info@anchormefarm.com.
• Every Sunday Support Group: Starts April 7, and continues every Sunday at 11:30 a.m.
• Goat walks: Participants take a leisurely walk around the farm with the goats. The goats provide companionship and help to reduce stress and anxiety.
• Goat cuddles: Participants can cuddle with the goats in a quiet and relaxing setting. The goats provide comfort and help to promote relaxation.
• Special Events: The next one is PAINT AND PET, Saturday April 27, from 1 – 3 p.m. A chance to paint under a tent in the company of animals featuring the talents of WickedIllustrations Studio & Gallery. Please sign up at WickedIllustrations.com. Cost is $40. $5 of the cost goes to The Anchor ME Farm.

Cara Cribb explains how the farm came to be: “I had an idea about this amazing place that has cuddly animals or just intriguing animals, where people could come to forget their troubles for an hour or two. I was at my breaking point, stuck in Rhode Island, literally nothing except dwelling on my trauma and reliving it every second. Once I convinced my husband that this could be a thing, we started the process of moving again.”

Goats at the Anchor ME Farm, in Windsor. (photo by Jeanne Marquis)

As the couple began its search for a farm, the pandemic struck and Brian Cribb’s job went remote, which opened up the possibility of locating their farm in Maine. Before long, they found a home that has seen at least a century in Windsor and through a journey of sweat-equity, restoration and building formed a home for themselves and a happy herd of goats.

The Cribbs want the public to know they are not therapists, the goats do the therapy. Goats are highly adaptable creatures who are often used in therapy because they are playful, gentle and have the unique ability to recognize human emotions and react as needed. If a person needs a hug, they are there for a quick nudge and a long cuddle. If a child needs to play, goats love to romp and are famous for their zig zag jumps from side to side, which will generate some laughter from most humans. Interactions with animals, especially goats, can positively affect brain chemistry by reducing cortisol levels and increasing dopamine, oxytocin, and endorphins – the brain chemicals that provide humans the feelings of security and well-being.

The need for all types of therapies, even non-clinical goat therapy, has been increasing in the last few years. According to the February 2024 Forbes Mental Health Statistics Report, the number of people with mental health conditions has increased in the United States, with 23.1 percent of adults experiencing one in 2022. The number of anxiety and depressive disorders has also increased since the COVID-19 pandemic, with 28 percent more people experiencing depressive symptoms and 25 percent more experiencing anxiety disorders.

Anchor ME farm also has a licensed bakery on site called the Anchor ME Gluten Free Bakehouse. Everything is made to order from requests on their website. They generally need two days for an order and will confirm when you will pick it up at their farm stand. Ingredients are listed online but If you’re trying to avoid an ingredient, send an email so they can try to accommodate. Some of their diverse offerings include cookies, doughnuts, bagels, pumpkin bread, apple fritters, brioche, focaccia, challah, naan, brownies and crackers.

The Anchor-ME Farm is nonprofit, 501(c)(3), that provides a safe place for people who are dealing with PTSD, depression, anxiety with the help of animals.

Located at 584 Ridge Road, Windsor. For more information, call (207) 445-8192 or check out Anchormefarm.com and view their Facebook often for updates on special events.

Windsor select board opens three sealed heat pump bids; postpones decision

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by The Town Line staff

At the February 27 meeting of the Windsor  Select Board, Ray Bates, Select Board Chairman, opened three sealed heat pump bids/RFPs. A bid was submitted by RJ Energy Services, Inc. The proposal included three options. A bid was submitted by C.B. Haskell Fuel Co. Inc.

The proposal included three options. A bid was submitted by Augusta Natural Gas. The written proposal included five options. The bids were reviewed. Discussions and questions were asked to John Ramsey representing RJ Energy and owner/operator of Augusta Natural Gas, Miles Hafner, both were present to answer questions about their induvial quotes as well as other questions the Select Board had. The select board discussed having reference checks done and having an opportunity to discuss the bids with the absent select board member prior to making the decision. William Appel Jr. made a motion to table making a final decision to do reference checks and discuss the bids with the fifth select board member, the select board will reconvene in two weeks to discuss more regarding heat pump bids, and possibly make a decision at that time seconded by Thomas McNaughton and approved 4-0-0.

Town Manager Theresa Haskell reviewed updates made to the transfer station brochure. The brochure and price changes were discussed at the November 21, 2023, select board meeting. A few of the changes include an increase in tire charges. Passenger car/light truck tires up to 20 inches are now $5 each. Truck Tires are now $25 each. skidder tires are now $100 each. TV Monitors, Laptops under 25 inches are now $12 each. TV monitors, laptops under 25 inches are now $25 each. The transfer station will now accept propane tanks up to 20 lbs. at a cost of $5 each and will accept propane tanks 21 . lbs – 100 lbs. at a cost of $25 each. Residents can see the new brochure posted on the website. The select board approved the changes 4-0, with select board member Andrew Ballantyne absent.

Darcy Aronson, a Windsor resident who owns land off Griffin Road asked the select board why they allowed her road to be named by another town resident without her knowledge. Aronson stated Windsor residents Chris and Johanna Oberg and Paul Bernier have a right-of-way through her land to their property. She explained she owns approximately 700 feet of the said Road that was recently named Landworks Lane. The road begins off Griffin Road and Aronson reported that she owns the beginning section of the road. The other residents only have a right-of-way. Chris Oberg spoke on behalf of himself, his wife, and his father-in-law Paul Bernier. They are the landowners that have the right-of-way through Darcy Aronson’s property.

Chris Oberg handed the select board a written layout to include mapping of what his plan could and would be pending a decision of the select board regarding the naming of the road. Chris Oberg made it known that he, his wife, and Paul were not aware that it was a problem to name the road. They began building their new home on the property and were told by the town that they had to give the road a name by Arthur Strout, Codes Enforcement Officer. They came up with several names and ultimately decided on Landworks Lane.

Arthur Strout, Codes Enforcement Officer, sat in on the discussion and he confirmed that he did let the Oberg’s know that the road did need to be named. After much discussion, all parties agreed they would have a discussion among themselves to try and come to an agreement. If more town involvement is needed, the residents will be in contact with the appropriate officials. The name of the road will stand at Landworks Lane for all purposes including the E-911 system at this time.

Moira Teekema, a resident of Windsor, spoke with the select board regarding cost and placement of road signage around the town. Discussion ensued about Amish carriage signs and the cost of the signs and where they could and should be placed. It was brought up that there were Amish carriage signs in the town of Whitefield donated. It was brought up in discussion by another resident in the audience that the speed limit should be reduced in a couple areas around town where here are sharp corners and blind drives. Theresa responded that speed limits are not something the town can control. Haskell noted speed limits are controlled by Department of Transportation. The D.O.T. increases and decreases speed limits as they deem necessary.

In other business, Haskell reported that Katie Yates, Program Manager, from Central Maine Power attended the meeting to discuss and answer any questions the select board may have regarding the agreement CMP has with the town of Windsor and surrounding towns to repair any damage done to the town’s roads while CMP is traveling on them to do their work while the towns have them posted. The roads that will be most used by CMP in the town of Windsor at this time are Vigue Rd., Doyle Rd., Divine Rd., Griffin Rd., Maxcy’s Mill Rd., and Baker Rd. The out-of-state contractor CMP is contracted with is Ironwood Heavy Highway LLC and M.J. Electric LLC. They would be responsible for repairing any damage done to the town’s roads per the agreement.

– Haskell noted Delta Ambulance was planning to attend the meeting. Delta contacted her to let her know they had to cancel. Delta will be placed on the agenda at a future date.
– Ray Bates shared parts of an email sent to him from State Representative Katrina Smith. Smith highlighted key points around Delta Ambulances’ finances and encouraged towns to ask Delta Ambulances to provide financial records moving forward.
– Haskell reported that Windsor will post on the website information regarding FEMA disaster assistance including a number to call with questions about disaster relief. The number is 1-800-621-3362. Haskell also added the Manchester Fire Department will be open for walk-ins Monday – Saturday 8 a.m.-6 p.m., if anyone has questions about the FEMA disaster assistance from the December 2023 storm.
– McNaughton reported that the IRS has extended the tax due date to June 17, 2024. The Internal Revenue Service announced tax relief for individuals and businesses in parts of Maine affected by severe storms and flooding that began on December 17, 2023. People can contact the IRS with questions.
– Haskell reported a vacancy for a Democratic Election Clerk. Kelly McGlothlin has asked to appoint Terry Bailey as Democratic Election Clerk effective through April 30, 2024. William Appel Jr. made a motion to appoint Terry Bailey as Democratic Election Clerk effective through April 30, 2024, seconded by Chester D. Barnes Jr. and approved 4-0-0.
– Haskell reported as of December 5, 2023, the E-911 assistant has changed and updated 45 addresses in the E-911 system. Greg Feltis is still working on address updates. This is very important for emergency services. Although this may be frustrating and a hardship for some residents if an address change is made, it is necessary for emergency services. He will continue fielding calls as any concerns about address changes come up.
– Haskell reported that civil papers have been served on the Ridge Road property. Next steps will be taken if necessary.
– Haskell reported the new fire truck has arrived at the Windsor Volunteer Fire Station.
– Haskell extended an invitation to the select board, on behalf of the Windsor Volunteer Department to their annual meeting on Saturday, April 6, 2024, at 5:30 p.m. The meeting will include dinner for the select board members and a guest who chooses to attend. The select board is to let Haskell know as soon as possible.
– Chester D. Barnes Jr. made a motion to increase Timothy Coston’s hourly wage and overtime wage to be what the Public Works Road Supervisor’s wage is as he is now handling the supervisory role while the supervisor is out.

Animal Control Officer Ryan Carver reported he has contacted all but about ten people on his door-to-door list for unregistered dogs. If the residents that have received their 10-day notice do not get their dogs registered, they will receive the 14-day notice and after that they will be issued a summons for keeping an unregistered dog.

The next meeting of the select board was scheduled for March 12.