SEPTEMBER 2009
VOLUME 8, ISSUE 9
CENTRAL MAINE
Business NEWS A Monthly Lifestyle Community Publication
PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT #298 ROCKLAND, ME 04841 POSTAL CUSTOMER
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Turner Publishing, Inc., PO Box 214, Turner, ME 04282-0214
Mailed to Businesses of Androscoggin, Cumberland, Franklin, Kennebec & Oxford Counties
Tri-Valley Area United Way Announces Co-Chairs The United Way of the Tri-Valley Area is pleased to announce that Mike Luciano, human resource manager of Verso Paper Corp’s Androscoggin Mill; Sandy Goodwin, vice president and area sales manager of Bangor Savings Bank; and Representative Tom Saviello, will be teaming up to lead this year’s United Way of the Tri-Valley Area Campaign. Lisa Laflin, executive director of the United Way of the Tri-Valley Area, said, “Each one of this year’s Campaign TriChairs brings superior individual strengths to our fundraising effort. Together, they will be particularly effective in reaching out to all corners of Greater Franklin County to ensure people are aware of how contributions to the United Way make a tremendous difference, touching one out of every three people in the area. The United Way is fortunate to have dedicated volunteers from such diverse backgrounds and geography lead this year’s fundraising efforts. The combination of energy, enthusiasm, and experience will greatly benefit the United Way of the Tri-Valley Area and the community programs it supports.” Join the United Way of the Tri-Valley as it formally kicks off this year’s campaign on September 10, at Meetinghouse Park in Farmington from 11 – 2. (In case of heavy rain, the event will take place at the Fairbanks School Meetinghouse.) To celebrate the Campaign launch, there will be live
Representative Tom Saviello, Sandy Goodwin, vice president and area sales manager, Bangor Savings Bank and Mike Luciano, human resources manager of Verso Paper, are teaming up to lead this year’s United Way of the Tri-Valley Area Campaign. The mission of the United Way of the Tri-Valley Area is to improve local people’s lives by focusing the caring capacity of our communities.
music; free food; give aways; a group photo opportunity of individuals wearing LIVE UNITED t-shirts (which are for sale in advance by contacting the United Way at 778-5048 or visiting the office at 232 Broadway in Farmington); and a chance to speak with Community Partners about the impact they have on the region. This year’s Kick-Off event will also host an opportunity to “Stuff a Bus” with school supplies. This is in response to a growing number of requests for supplies fielded by the United Way and its funded agencies. A Mt. Blue Regional School District bus will be parked on Main Street in Farmington in front of the Gazebo to accept donations of school supplies that will be distributed throughout the county by the United Way of the Tri-Valley Area and its Community
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Partners. Last year, the United Way of the Tri-Valley Area allocated funds to 20 Community Partners who provide valuable health and social services. These include New Beginnings (outreach and assistance to homeless adolescents); SeniorsPlus (Meals on Wheels Program); Literacy Volunteers (Literacy tutor training and support); Western Maine Community Action (energy conservation education); the Franklin County Children’s Task Force (child abuse and neglect prevention programming), and 15 other organizations that assist vulnerable populations and make a difference in people’s lives. The economic climate continues to be challenging for residents of Greater Franklin County. The need to invest in the region is critical. The United Way of the Tri-Valley Area would like to thank Aramark, Mt. Blue Regional School District, Native Oak, Tri-County Mental Health Inspired Voices Ensemble, and Verso Paper Corp.’s Androscoggin Mill for their support of this year’s Kick-Off event.n
A Maine Owned Company
National 2009 Law Enforcement Officer of the Year Recipient ACAET has provided training to over 200 liquor licensees in the last two years on Maine Liquor laws. The ACAET also conducts proactive investigations seeking out under age drinking which has resulted in 332 charges in 2008 and 123 so far in 2009 for various liquor violations. Chief Michael J. Bussiere stated, “The Lewiston Police Department is very proud of Officer Ullrich for receiving this national Left to right are Scott Pestridge (OJJDP), Rob Ullrich award as OJJDP’s Law (LPD) Shari Cantelon (OJJDP), Bill Paterson Enforcement Officer of (PIRE). the Year. It reinforces all of the hard work that The Lewiston Police Officer Ullrich re- he has done to reduce Department is pleased ceived this award be- underage drinking not to announce that Officer cause of his work as just in Lewiston but Robert (Rob) Ullrich, a Maine’s first Under- all of Androscoggin 14 year veteran of the age alcohol investi- County. This recognidepartment and former gator and head of the tion demonstrates that DARE officer, was the Androscoggin County the Lewiston Police recipient of the national Alcohol Enforcement Department and its 2009 Law Enforcement Team (ACAET). In this partner police agenOfficer of the Year. The role Officer Ullrich has cies of Auburn, Lisbon award was presented to been involved in pro- and the Androscoggin him by the Office of Ju- gressive policing strat- County Sheriff's Ofvenile Justice and De- egies, working with fice as well as Healthy linquency Prevention, parents and retailers Androscoggin are at the (OJJDP) at a ceremony and raising the commu- forefront of national efin Dallas, Texas at the nities’ consciousness forts to combat underNational Conference on about the dangers of age alcohol drinking in Under Age Drinking. underage drinking. The the United States.” n
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The Local Inside Scoop Page 2 -
Mechanic Savings Appoints New CEO
Page 3 -
Franklin Health Starts Dermatology Practice
Page 4 -
Maine Carriage Days Scheduled for Oct. 3
Page 7 -
New Report Approves Maine Sales Tax Charges
Page 8 -
Read About Upcoming Theater in this ares
Pages 9 -
Sign Up for Free Pesticide Disposal
Page 11 -
How to Get Health Services for Less
Page 12 -
Kennebec Savings Employees Honored
Page 15 -
Father and Son Inducted into Loggers Hall of Fame
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Page 2
September 2009
PEOPLE IN THE NEWS Rangeley Resident Named Wellness and Competition Director
Jeff Hawksley
petitive events. Competition fosters a tremendous sense of pride in a resort, as well as raising the bar for recreational skiers and snowboarders who might decide to make the commitment to join a competitive training program. I couldn't be more pleased about having an experienced professional like Jeff Hawksley in charge of this program." Hawksley is also the director of fitness at the Rangeley Rehabilitation and Wellness Pavilion. He is a member of the National Academy of
Business NEWS Turner Publishing, Inc., PO Box 70, No. Turner, ME 04266
Mailed to Businesses of Androscoggin, Cumberland, Franklin, Kennebec & Oxford Counties
PO Box 214 Turner, ME 04282-0214 email: ads@turnerpublishing.net articles@turnerpublishing.net
Advertising: Jess Small, Sara Larson, Joy Ribisi, Kristen Guay
Eretzian Promoted to Creative Director at Rinck Advertising Karly J. Eretzian has been promoted to the position of creative director at Rinck Advertising in Auburn. Skilled in the areas of graphic concept, design layout, and campaign and identity development, Eretzian plays a lead role in project management and creative concept in print and digital media marketing. Since joining Rinck Advertising as an art director in 2003, Eretzian has served on numerous client accounts that include McDonald's®, Gorton's Seafood, Dean Foods, Fit & Fresh, True Lemon, An- Karly J. Eretzian heuser Busch, Blue Water Eretzian holds a Bachelor of Arts Seafoods, Garelick Farms and Beyer degree in Advertising Design from Farms. She has been honored with two Syracuse University. A former USCSA prestigious W3 Awards from the InterAlpine racer, she coaches high school national Academy of Visual Arts for alpine skiing at Leavitt Area High her design work on the Gorton's SeaSchool in Turner and is a member of food web site as well several Golden the Advertising Club of Maine and Arrow Awards from the Maine Public Young Professionals of the Lewiston Relations Council for McDonald’s, Auburn Area. Eretzian resides in AuGarelick Farms and Tuscan Dairy deburn, Maine. n sign marketing.
MSB Appoints Chief Financial Officer
Advertising
CENTRAL MAINE
Publisher Steven Cornelio General Manager Dan Smiley Copy Editor Bob Tymoczko Writer/Photographer Bill Van Tassel
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Controller Jodi Cornelio Operations Manager Tamara Clark Office/Financial Administrator Melissa L’Heureux Graphic Design Sherron Wildes Kyra Darling
Web/ Marketing: Duane Huard
Distribution: Direct mailed to the business community of Androscoggin, Cumberland, Franklin, Kennebec and Oxford Counties. If your business is not getting this publication free of charge, please call and ask to be added to our mailing list. Central Maine Business News assumes no responsibility for typographical errors, but will reprint at no additional charge that part of any advertisement in which the error occurs. Central Maine Business News reserves the right to accept or refuse any advertising and to edit stories and articles submitted for publication.
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Terry L. Bishop has been hired to the position of chief financial officer at Mechanics Savings Bank. In this role, he is responsible for asset liability management, finance department over-
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Jeff Hawksley of Rangeley has been named director of the Wellness and Alpine Skiing Competition Center, and Junior Programs at Saddleback Maine. In this role, he will run the mountain's Ski and Snowboard Competition Center. Warren Cook, CEO and general manager of Saddleback, said, "We have big plans for raising the caliber of our competitive training program for skiers and snowboarders, as well as hosting a range of com-
Sports Medicine, a Certified personal trainer, a performance enhancement specialist, and a corrective exercise specialist. He is also a USSA International Level 400 Alpine Ski Coach. With 30 years experience working with athletes of all ages at the local, regional and national levels of competition, Hawksley has extensive knowledge of training both on and off the snow. He also has five years of experience teaching full body fitness classes, designing training programs for private clients for weight management and body composition, corrective exercise, athletic performance and post rehabilitation training. Hawksley was the men's Alpine head conditioning coach at Carrabassett Valley Academy (CVA) from 2005 to 2009. He was also director of the CVA Alpine Program and Sugarloaf/CVA Alpine Program from 1998 to 2003 and founder and head coach of the Saddleback Alpine Training Center from 1990 to 1997. For more information about Saddleback and its year-round offerings, visit www.saddlebackmaine.com. n
Central Maine Business NEWS
Small Business
sight and management of the Bank’s correspondent bank relationships. Before joining Mechan-
ics Savings Bank, Bishop most recently served as chief financial officer at Hewes & Company, Inc. in Blue Hill. Prior to that he was employed at Skowhegan Savings Bank as vice president and controller. Bishop holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Maine at Machias. He is a graduate of the New England School for Financial Studies and a Certified Public Accountant. Bishop is a member of the Child Development Services board of directors and resides in Ellsworth with his wife Jennifer and their two children, Hayden and McKenna. n
Central Maine Business NEWS www.centralmainetoday.com
September 2009
Sparling to Join Franklin Health Dermatology
Rebecca Ryder, president/CEO of Franklin Community Health Network, is pleased to announce that Joshua Sparling, MD, FAAD, will join the medical staff of Franklin Memorial Hospital and a new Franklin Health Dermatology practice in September. Dr. Sparling is boardcertified and a Fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology. He received his medical degree at Dartmouth Medical School in Hanover, New Joshua Sparling, MD, FAAD Hampshire, and later completed his residency patch testing, narrow band ultraviolet in dermatology at Walter Reed Army light therapy, cryosurgery and electroMedical Center in Washington, DC. cautery, and steroid injections. Also Most recently Dr. Sparling served as the offered will be complete skin exams, sole dermatologist at the Guthrie Am- skin care advice, and treatment of skin bulatory Health Clinic in Fort Drum, infections. New York, where he provided surgical Cosmetic procedures such as Botox, and medical dermatology services for sclerotherapy for leg veins, and chemiall active duty and dependent patients cal peels for facial blemishes and agin the 10th Mountain Division. ing will be available on a limited basis. Franklin Health Dermatology is the These procedures are generally considfirst ever dermatology-only medical ered cosmetic by insurance plans and practice based in Franklin County and will require up-front cash payment beoffers treatment for a full range of der- fore such services can be rendered. matological conditions affecting those "With the addition of Dr. Sparling of all ages, including: acne, psoriasis, and the recent arrival of several other rosacea, eczema, dandruff, dermati- doctors, we have assembled some of tis, excess sweating, hair loss, excess the best physicians in New England hair (hirsuitism), and disorders of the right here in our service area," said mouth, tongue, lips, and nails. Ryder. "We are so delighted to add a Dr. Sparling will begin seeing pa- dermatology practice; it is a service tients on September 8. A referral from that the community has been requestone's primary care doctor may be need- ing for quite some time." ed for most services. For more information or appointDr. Sparling will offer state-of-the- ments call 779-2410. Franklin Health art dermatological services including: Dermatology is located at 105 Mt. Blue biopsies of moles or growths, treatment Circle, Suite 2, in Farmington, which is of pre-cancerous lesions, removal of one-fourth mile west of Franklin Meskin cancer and benign growths, skin morial Hospital on Route 2. n
CMCC Instructor Honored by National Group Ronald Dyer, an instructor in the Graphic Arts/Printing Technology (GAT) program at Central Maine Community College, was honored recently as the recipient of the 2009 Fred J. Hartman award from the International Graphic Arts Education Association (IGAEA). The Hartman Award is given annually to an IGAEA member who has been recognized nationally through contributions and accomplishments in graphic arts teaching, research, and/or service. It is named after Fred Hartman, a charter member of the IGAEA who enjoyed Ronald Dyer a long and distinguished career in the graphic communications field. Dyer, a resident of Gray, is a graduate of the University of Southern Maine. He has served on the GAT faculty at CMCC since 1972, including 19 years as department chair. He teaches courses in Introduction to Printing, Estimating, Web Development, Digital Photography, and
Adobe Acrobat. For the past three years, Dyer has chaired Graph XPO, a program that recognizes outstanding high school graphic arts students. He is a member of the Graphic Arts Education Research Foundation and serves as vice-president of the Maine Graphic Arts Association, which once honored him as teacher of the year. n
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Community Concepts Receives Grant Community Concepts of South Paris and Auburn, Maine has received a $10,000 grant from the BJ’s Charitable Foundation of Natick, Massachusetts. This grant will be used to support volunteer transportation services in Androscoggin, Franklin and Oxford Counties, Maine. “This generous gift from BJ’s Charitable Foundation makes it possible for Community Concepts to help veterans or homeless people get to medical appointments and counseling,” says Jim Wilkins, director of advancement for Community Concepts. “There are many people who do not qualify for government funded
transportation services. Grants from corporations and foundations provide the resources needed to keep our services available to as many people as possible.” Jessica Newman, manager of community relations for BJ’s Wholesale Club, notified Community Concepts of the award writing, “We are pleased to advise you that a grant of $10,000 was approved at our July 14, 2009 Board of Directors meeting.” Community Concepts is the only Maine organization to receive funding from the BJ’s Charitable Foundation. BJ’s is distributing a total of $723,200 to 87 organizations throughout the communities where
BJ’s Wholesale Club has stores. BJ’s has a store located in Auburn, Maine. Community Concepts, Inc., a local Maine nonprofit, helps more than 25,000 individuals every year. Founded in 1965 and led by an 18-member volunteer Board of Directors, its services include: Head Start, family support services, transportation, energy programs, economic development and affordable housing throughout Androscoggin, Franklin and Oxford. Community Concepts' funding comes from a variety of government contracts, grants from private foundations and corporations and gifts from individuals. n
Adley Named to Bank Board of Directors Bradford S. Adley of Rumford has been named to the Franklin Savings Bank Board of Directors. Adley, who has been a member of the Franklin Savings Bank Board of Corporators for five years, fills a vacancy left with the retirement of Director Sonja P. Robinson. “We are so pleased to have Brad join the Board,” said Peter L. Judkins, president and CEO of Franklin Savings Bank. “In his many and varied municipal, charitable, community and business roles, he brings a depth of understanding of the River Valley that will be a tremendous contribution to the business before the board. Brad understands the challenges of running a small business. He will make a great representative for the River Valley.” “I’m looking forward to being part of the Franklin Savings Bank family on the Board, which represents a cross section of people in the community, not just bankers and accountants. I’m on the ground level of the community and have a pretty good idea what’s going on,” said Adley. ”I’ve been banking at Franklin Savings Bank since I was 15 years old. I’ve never banked anywhere else. This is the bank for me,” said Adley. Adley is the owner of Adley Auto Sales and Service Inc., a family business that he has grown and expanded since be-
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Bradford S. Adley
coming the owner. Under his leadership, Adley Auto Sales and Service was recognized as Business of the Year by the River Valley Chamber of Commerce. He serves on various boards, including the Rumford Select Board, for which he is Chairman, the Rumford Planning Board, the Rumford Comprehensive Board, the Black Mountain Board of Trustees and the Maine State Auto Service Advisory Council. He is a parishioner at Holy Savior and a member of the Polar Bears Snowmobile Club. Adley is a graduate of Rumford High School, where he served as vice president for the Class of 1983, and received his Associate’s Degree from Central Maine Vocational Technical Institute in 1985 in Industrial Electronics. Adley is married to Su-
san Zinck Adley. They have three children. Franklin Savings Bank continues to rank as the Strongest Bank in Maine, according to rankings by TheStreet.com, the nation's leading independent provider of ratings and analyses of financial services companies, mutual funds and stocks. Franklin Savings Bank is the only “A” rated bank in Maine and one of only two banks in all of New England to receive an “A” rating. The bank also receives top marks from the other major bank rating organizations, BauerFinancial and BankRate. com. The 141-year-old community bank has locations in Rumford, Mexico, Wilton, Jay, Rangeley, Skowhegan and Farmington, as well as a teaching branch at Mt. Blue High School and Western Mountains Financial Services.n
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September 2009
AgriNEWS
Central Maine Business NEWS www.centralmainetoday.com
Maine Carriage Days Celebrates Its 32nd Year
Charlie Ballou relaxes between classes. (Photo by Thomas Sowles)
Larry Poulin drives Dressage, Multiples Division. (Photo taken by Diane Harriman)
Emma is a Hackney pony owned by Sonja Hardy of NH. (Photo by Lu Manter)
Plans are under way for the 32nd annual “Maine Carriage Days” equine event to be held at Topsham Fairgrounds, Topsham, Maine on October 3rd. (In the case of rain, October 4th will be the alternative date.) Maine Carriage Days was established back in 1977 by a small group of industrious carriage driving enthusiasts who were part of The New England Region of the Carriage Association of America. Years ago Maine Carriage Days was traditionally a prestigious event that attracted many carriage driving devotees and other horse enthusiasts from all over
New England. Fortunately Maine Carriage Days is under new management this year, and the event is being lifted again to its former glory with the past traditions brought back that made this a hallmark event in the New England carriage driving community in years gone by. There is much excitement surrounding this year’s event because of all the expansion and growth planned for 2009. Maine Carriage Days officials will be presenting the Col. Paul Downing Trophy and the Helen Sanborn Cup this year along with many other special awards to recognize excellence in carriage driving.
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Among notable developments this year are that the event has gained American Driving Society recognition status-the ONLY ADS recognized event held in Maine—and that it has been moved to Topsham Fairgrounds, Topsham, Maine, which will allow far more space for parking and for the planned expansion of activities. ADS judges John Greenall of Vermont and Susan Koso of Massachusetts will be officiating. There will be a variety of offerings for the spectators including horse drawn carriage rides provided by a gorgeous pair of black Clydesdales driven by Jerome St. Louis of Star Hill Stables, educational displays by local groups, manufacturers’ booths, vendors for shopping. Several substantial prizes shall be raffled off during the day. Overnight stabling and camping are available for competitors with prior arrangement (contact Mary Fowler). Classes offered include all the traditional Pleasure Driving Classes, plus Cones Obstacle Course, 2 Mile Marathon Pace, Concours d'Elegance, Driven Dressage (a series of compulsory figures performed in a precise, disciplined manner within a demarcated area to demonstrate the horse’s obedience and ease of movement, perfected by years of training), and Carriage Dog Class. (Judged primarily on suitability of the dog to serve as a companion during carriage driving. The dog may stand or be seated on the carriage,
run behind, beside or at the axle of the carriage, however, the dog must be unleashed yet under control at all times.) Another feature of interest is that the Multiples Division (for pairs and teams) and the VSE Division (for Very Small Equines) are both making a comeback for 2009 after being absent for several years. This event is open to all equine breeds from mini to draft, including donkeys and mules. A small admission fee of $3 will be charged to the general public (children 12 and under can attend for free). Maine Carriage Days is seeking sponsors and volunteers. If you are interested in supporting the continued growth of this wonderful horse event in some way, please contact the following people: For class signups and volunteering, please contact: Mary Fowler, Organizer MAINE CARRIAGE DAYS email: organizer@mainecarriagedays. com website: www.mainecarriagedays.com phone: (207) 865-2047 For sponsorship and advertising opportunities: Lu Manter, Marketing & Public Relations MAINE CARRIAGE DAYS email: publicity@mainecarriagedays. com phone: (207) 634-5363 n
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Central Maine Business NEWS www.centralmainetoday.com
September 2009
Page 5
Ask the Experts A column for general guidance on employment issues
By Rebecca Webber, Esq.
Wage and Hour and Discrimination Laws
winterfordgalleries@gmail.com
Below are the final five of the most Maine Human Rights Commission. 28 U.S.C. § 1875. Violation of 14 of the job would not be consistent with business necessity. The bottom line is: frequent issues that crop up on the area 26 M.R.S.A. § 834-A. M.R.S.A. § 1218 is a Class E crime. • Pursuant to the Federal Occupationcan the person do the job? What do of wage and hour and discrimination you as an employer need to know to laws that are helpful to review periodi- al Safety and Health Act, it is illegal to 9. DON’T OVERLOOK THE make that evaluation? cally. Last month’s article contained discharge or in any way discriminate NUMEROUS REQUIREMENTS A medical evaluation is not the same the first five of ten issues to be aware against an employee because that em- APPLICABLE TO PAYMENT TO ployee has participated in a complaint as a physical agility test. Although of. EMPLOYEES or proceeding under the OSH Act or physical agility tests are permissible at 6. DON’T REFUSE TO LET a. Payment after cessation of has exercised any right afforded by the pre-offer stage, employers should AN EMPLOYEE/FORMER employment the Act. 29 U.S.C. § 660(c). ViolaEMPLOYEE SEE AND HAVE An employee leaving a job proceed with caution. Guidance is tions of this provision are prosecuted must be paid either the next day on available from the Equal Employment A COPY OF THEIR by OSHA in a process referred to as which employees are regularly paid or Opportunity Commission regarding PERSONNEL FILE Upon written request, an employer an “11C action.” 29 U.S.C. § 660(c) two weeks after demand is made. 26 the use of such tests. Once a person starts work, a medical is required to allow an employee or (2)-(3). There is no private right of ac- M.R.S.A. § 626. Loans or advances former employees to review and have tion. It is also illegal under state law may not be deducted unless evidenced examination or inquiry must be joba copy of their personnel file. 26 to discharge or discriminate against an by a statement in writing and signed related and consistent with business M.R.S.A. § 631. This access, as by the employee. Id. Vacation necessity. Employers may conduct well as the likelihood that a perpay has the same status as wag- employee medical examinations if there is evidence of a job performance sonnel file will become part of any es earned. Correction: or safety problem, or examinations are litigation over employment issues, b. Severance pay Last month’s column included an should impress upon employers If an employer employs 100 required by federal law. The focus incorrect number for the Maine DOL the need to keep these files as if or more persons, it will be li- needs to be on whether the employee Wage and Hour Division. Their new they might become trial exhibits able to its employees for sever- is performing their job adequately, number is (207) 623-7900. And the web some day. For example, employance pay if it relocates or ter- not on whether you, as an employer, ers should not put into the file any minates its establishment. 26 believe the employee has a medical address is www.maine.gov/labor/bls problem. For example, if someone apcommunications from the comM.R.S.A. § 625-B. pears depressed, don’t suggest that he pany’s attorney; should keep notes c. Violations of wage laws and reviews professional; and Violations of various sections or she see a therapist because, as you should make sure the file is maintained employee for acts concerning occupa- of the wage and medium of payment explain, they look like that’s what they consistent with other files. The cre- tional safety or health standards. 26 laws can lead to liability not only for need — you have just made a medical ators of the files need not spend hours M.R.S.A.§ 570. An employee must the wages themselves but for interest, evaluation that should be made by a creating plaintiff-proof documents but file a complaint with the Director of costs, liquidated damages of two times medical professional, the very type of simply should approach the task with the Bureau of Labor within 30 days the amount of unpaid wages, and at- evaluation or assumption that disability laws are meant to prevent. Instead, the question in mind of, “how would after the alleged violation occurs. torneys’ fees. 26 M.R.S.A. § 626-A. focus on what aspects of the job need • It is illegal to fire or discriminate an objective outsider look at this?” against an employee for asserting any 10. DON’T ASK AN EMPLOYEE improvement and leave it to the emright under ERISA. ERISA § 510, OR APPLICANT FOR MEDICAL ployee to determine how to meet those 7. DON’T FORGET TO GIVE criteria. For example, it is fair to point 29 U.S.C. § 1140. For example, an REST BREAKS INFORMATION AND KEEP out that work is not being completed If an employee will be working more employee may not be fired because WHAT YOU DO KNOW on time, unacceptable errors are bethan 6 hours at a shot, they are entitled a beneficiary makes a claim for benCONFIDENTIAL to 30 minutes of rest. 26 M.R.S.A. § efits under a plan. Fitzgerald v. Codex With respect to job applicants, an ing made, or customers are not being 601. This section does not apply, how- Corp., 882 F.2d 586 (1st Cir. 1989). employer may not: (1) ask an appli- treated appropriately. Ultimately, the employer is responsiever, to businesses that employ less No cause of action exists for losses of cant whether he or she has a disability; than 3 people and that involve work benefits that occur merely as a result (2) ask questions about the nature or ble for determining whether an injured that by its nature allows “frequent” of a termination. Canaan & Mitchell, severity of an applicant’s disability; employee is ready to return to work breaks during the day. An employer is Employee Fringe and Welfare Benefit (3) conduct a medical examination; or or whether an impaired employee is not only required to provide breaks but Plans, § 16.4 at 456 (West 1996). (4) ask an applicant about his or her capable of continuing to work. The • An employer cannot fire an em- workers’ compensation history. An employer must decide whether the must put up a poster regarding breaks. This poster also covers child labor ployee because a creditor has gar- employer may ask applicants if they employee, with or without accommolaws, payment of wages, unfair agree- nished her or his wages. Such a ter- can perform job-related functions. dation, can do the essential aspects of ments, termination of group insurance, mination would violate the Maine Questions about an applicant’s abil- their job without posing a direct threat and family medical leave. Copies are Consumer Credit Code. 9-A M.R.S.A. ity to perform job-related functions to themselves or others. In making available from the Bureau of Labor § 5-106. An employer also may not should be consistent with the em- such a decision, it is often useful to discriminate against or fire an employ- ployer’s business needs. In addition, seek information from a rehabilitaStandards, (207) 624-6410. ee because she or he has been a debtor the same questions should be asked of tion counselor, physician, or other or bankrupt or has been involved with each applicant. 8. DON’T FIRE AN EMPLOYEE one. 11 U.S.C. § 525(b). BECAUSE . . . An employer may condition a job ofSee Expert on page 6 • It is illegal to fire an employee for fer on the satisfactory result of a post There are numerous exceptions to the doctrine of at-will employment, in filing a complaint about violation of job offer medical exComputer Consulting & Software Training addition to those in the Maine Human the state minimum wage and overtime amination or medical inRights Act, and they aren’t located all laws. 26 M.R.S.A. § 671. See also 29 quiry. The examination/ Ten years experience in in place. With some exceptions, the U.S.C. § 215(3) (regarding complaints inquiry must be required • PC Installation, Training, & Instruction technology education. • Windows, MS Office, Photoshop, & Internet general rule that can be gleaned from under the Fair Labor Standards Act). of all entering employ• An employer may not discharge ees in the same category Training for Individuals & Businesses this hodge podge is that an employer shouldn’t fire someone because they or discriminate against an employee of job. Although such a report a possible violation of state or who complains about a violation of post-offer examination Reasonable Rates • Senior Citizen Discounts federal law. As a practical matter, an the Maine “Rest Breaks” law. 26 does not have to be jobemployer should attempt to view such M.R.S.A. § 602. related and consistent Bruce A. Houghton 207-312-9117 • An employer is not permitted to with business necessity, reb21@roadrunner.com a report as a free heads-up and an opportunity to avoid labor officials from terminate an employee for exercis- it is always safer if it is. Monday-Friday • 9am-4pm descending. In any case, termination ing rights under the Maine Family Moreover, if an employMedical Leave Requirements Act. 26 er decides, on the basis pitfalls to beware are: • Under the Maine Whistleblow- M.R.S.A. § 847. of such an examination Winterford Galleries • An employer may not discrimi- to withdraw the job offer, ers’ Protection Act, it is illegal to Gift and Frame Shop fire, threaten, or treat differently an nate against an employee for serving the reason for not hiring employee who reports a violation of in state or federal military forces. 26 must be job-related and a law, reports something that risks M.R.S.A. § 811. See also 38 U.S.C. consistent with busisomeone’s health or safety, refuses to §§ 2021, 2024. ness necessity. Criteria • An employer may not deprive an that exclude individudo something that will endanger her During September 15% off all name frames (normally $69.95 and up) or his life or someone else’s, or has employee of employment or health in- als with disabilities bebeen involved in a governmental in- surance, or threaten to do so, for be- cause of their disability 156 Main St. ۰ Bridgton ۰ (207) 647-5567 vestigation or hearing. 26 M.R.S.A. ing called to jury duty or serving on but that do not concern www.WinterfordNaturePhotography.com § 833. Complaints are filed with the a jury. 14 M.R.S.A. § 1218. See also an “essential” function www.centralmainetoday.com
Page 6
September 2009
Back To Work? At 84? By HubertKauffman Yes. After three years of retirement, Hubert (Bert) Kauffman has headed back to work, starting his own business as a Life Coach. Life coaching, as a profession, is relatively new. It is counseling for normal people who find themselves facing life problems they have not been able to solve. Life coaches seek to build on current strengths. Unlike psychotherapists, life coaches do not delve deeply into a person’s past or make use of medication to change behavior. Bert is no stranger to helping people to change. He received his Ph.D. in clinical psychology at New York University in 1962 after taking a Masters in School Psychology at City College of New York. Following a stint of 25 years at CCNY as Professor of Educational Psychology, he worked in clinics, hospitals and in private practice as a psychotherapist. In addi-
tion, he found time to write newspaper and magazine columns as well lecture around the country for professionals seeking to acquire continuing education credits to maintain their licensure. In explaining his most recent move, Bert says, “There are many reasons for this life change. First, I love change. Second, as a retiree I felt like the five-year-old in a “progressive” classroom who asked, “Teacher, do I HAVE to do whatever I want today?” Finally and most importantly, I thrive on the high I feel when a client initiates change in his life and finds it good.” Bert’s post-retirement endeavor is designed to help an underserved population by setting his fees extremely low and by keeping his own expenses at rock bottom. This is not a profit-making venture. Though his practice includes a wide range of issues, Bert feels that
there is great need for focus on parenting skills. “Life doesn’t come with an owner’s manual,” he says. “Couples, or worse, single parents are thrust into parenthood with their own experience as children the primary guide for their own behavior. The psychologist Bruno Bettleheim was once asked, ‘What shall I do with my child?’ He replied, ‘It depends upon what kind of child you want.’” Bert believes that, with an important nod to heredity, what kind of child you get depends largely upon how you were raised and what you feel and do as a parent. Parenting skills, he believes, can be learned and relatively easily as long as the parent(s) are willing to look at what they are doing with and feeling about their children. It is vital that the parent(s) learn to love and respect themselves making them more able to love and respect their children. See Back on page 7
Central Maine Business NEWS www.centralmainetoday.com
Kennebec Savings Bank Selected as One of the Best in the Nation
Judges Name Augusta Organization as One of “The Principal 10 Best Companies for Employee Financial Security” Kennebec Savings Bank, based in Augusta, Maine, is one of only 10 growing companies earning national acclaim for using business smarts to offer their employees extraordinary benefits in the face of an economic storm. As part of the recognition, The Principal Financial Group Foundation, Inc. will make a $2,500 contribution to Kennebec Savings Bank’s charity of choice – United Way of Kennebec Valley– in the company’s name. An independent judging panel of employee benefits experts named Kennebec Savings Bank as one of the 2009 winners of The Principal® 10 Best Companies for Employee Financial Security, citing its generous retirement and wellness programs. “Kennebec Savings Bank faces the same challenges as other businesses. What makes them extraordinary is the priority
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they place on employee financial security,” said Luke Vandermillen, vice president at The Principal®. “They understand the direct connection between strong benefits, a strong workforce and a strong bottom line – in the best and worst of times.” The Principal Financial Group® sponsors the national program, which is now in its eighth year. It honors growing companies for their commitment to their employees’ financial security. “What sets Kennebec Savings Bank apart is their defined benefit pension plan, an employee benefit that’s not offered anymore like it once was, though it is very important in helping promote financial security,” said Nevin Adams, editor-in-chief, PLANSPONSOR Magazine, PLANSPONSOR. com, PLANADVISER Magazine and judge of The Principal 10 Best
Companies. “This benefit, coupled with their generous 401(k) match is a great testament to their commitment to their employees.” Founded in 1870, Kennebec Savings Bank has 81 employees and is a state chartered mutual savings bank. “It’s a terrific honor to be selected as one of The Principal 10 Best Companies,” said Mary Hammond, vice president and human resources officer, Kennebec Savings Bank. “Everything we do is about great customer service. That comes from building great relationships with our employees. A happy, secure employee creates a happy, secure customer.” A summary of best practices from Kennebec Savings Bank and other winners will be published and available in January 2010 at www.principal. com/10best. n
expert, from page 5
was considered in making a decision to terminate. Disclosure of medical information is permitted in the following circumstances: • supervisors and managers may be told about necessary restrictions on the work or duties of the employee and about necessary accommodations; • first aid and safety personnel may be told, when appropriate, if the disability might require emergency treatment; • employers may give information to workers’ compensation offices or may use the information for insurance purposes.
specialist regarding the employee’s specific functional limitations, abilities, and possible accommodations. The employer should provide the medical professional with information about the following: • the essential functions of the employee’s position and the nature of the work to be performed; • the work environment and the employer’s operations, including any unavoidable health or safety hazards that may exist; • possible reasonable accommodations. Information from all medical examinations and inquiries must be kept apart from general personnel files as separate, confidential, medical records, available only under limited conditions. In other words, if an employer has medical information about an employee, the employer must create a separate medical file for that employee and keep it in a place separate from the personnel files where only certain persons have access to that information. The more separate the files, the lower the risk that an employee will be able to claim, down the road, that medical information
This article is not legal advice but should be considered as general guidance in the area of employment law. Rebecca Webber is an employment attorney at Linnell, Choate & Webber in Auburn, Maine. You can contact her at 784-4563 (telephone); rwebber@ lcwlaw.com (email); or 784-1981 (fax). Linnell, Choate & Webber is a full service law firm providing legal services to individuals, companies, and municipalities throughout Maine. It has been in operation since its founding in 1931. n
Central Maine Business NEWS www.centralmainetoday.com
September 2009
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Page 7
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Maine's Sales Tax Modernization was Right Choice New Report Shows Others States Considering Similar Reform
Maine's decision to modernize its sales tax is a sound move that several other states are considering following, according to a new report by the Washington, DCbased Center on Budget and Policy Priorities. "Broadening the sales tax base to encompass more services - as Maine did during this last legislative session - is a step forward that tax experts have long recommended," said Kurt Wise of the Maine Center for Economic Policy. Opponents of the reform are seeking a ballot measure to repeal it. "Repealing the measure would move Maine in the wrong direction," says Wise. Other states looking to broaden their sales tax base include North Carolina, which is seriously
considering such a step as part of an overhaul of its tax system. Official commissions in California and Colorado are discussing this approach as well. Arkansas, Nebraska, and New Jersey all opted to tax additional services earlier in the decade. Maine's reform measure (LD 1495) will help stabilize state revenues and limit the size of future budget shortfalls. The Office of Fiscal and Program Review estimates that projected revenues over the 2010-2011 biennium will fall some $1.4 billion (or 20 percent) below the amount needed to maintain services at their 2009 levels. Drastic budget shortfalls are affecting most other states as well, and reforms like Maine's can
help states address shortterm budget gaps as well as longer-term revenue issues. "When it comes to tax reform, times of crisis can also be times of opportunity," notes Michael Mazerov, the author of the report and a senior fellow at the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities. "During the boom years of the 1990s, states had little interest in updating their sales tax to reflect the shift toward a service-oriented economy. Now, several states are looking at taxing more services, and more may join them if states' budget problems continue." Until Maine's tax reform package takes effect next January, Maine will continue to tax just two of 40 household ser-
vices that many other states tax, the Center's report explains. When the reforms go into effect, Maine will begin taxing about two dozen of these services. "The reforms we have enacted here in Maine will help to modernize our tax system," says House Majority Leader, John Piotti. "What is important to remember about this tax reform package, however, is that broadening our sales tax base is more than offset by reductions in our income tax. As a result, almost 90 percent of Maine households will see their total tax burden decline." While the sales tax changes will increase state revenues by about $58 million annually, income taxes will be
Veterans and Active-Duty Military Get Free State Park Admission Due to recently-enacted legislation, Maine veterans and active-duty members of the military are eligible for free admission to state parks and historic sites, according to Rep. Dale Crafts (RLisbon). Veterans and activeduty military personnel may receive a free dayuse pass by presenting valid identification at any state park or historic site. The free day-use
access is issued only for veterans who are Maine residents and for activeduty military personnel whose home residence is in Maine. There is no limit on visits or sites, but valid identification must be shown upon arrival each time to receive the free day access. This identification includes veteran discharge papers such as a DD214, military or VA identification cards, or veteran’s li-
cense plates. The Maine Department of Conservation and the Maine Bureau of Veterans Services are working together to implement a process allowing veterans and activeduty military personnel to apply for a free annual pass in the future. The
application process for the pass will begin on October 1st and instructions will be posted on the Maine Department of Conservation (http:// www.maine.gov/doc/) and the Maine Bureau of Veterans Services (http://www.maine.gov/ dvem/bvs/) websites. n
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reduced by about $112 million. The difference will go toward lowering the overall tax burden for 87 percent of Maine households, according to Maine Revenue Services. As the new report explains, for decades, spending by American households has been shifting steadily away from goods and toward services. Most state sales taxes, however, still rely heavily on the purchase of goods. As a result, tax collections will continually shrink as the economy shifts toward the purchase of services. Currently, Maine taxes just 24 of the 168 potentially taxable services identified by the Federation of Tax Administraback, from page 6
A second major interest is in working with people, who, in midlife, are facing drastic changes. Think of the emotional impact of chronic illnesses, unemployment, children growing up and leaving home, divorce, retirement, for example. With a life coach to help, people can make their lives better
tors. With tax reform (LD 1495) that figure will rise closer to 50, boosting the state's sales tax revenues by 4 percent. The report explores the mechanics of the sales tax and how best to structure newly broadened taxes on services. As Maine has done under LD 1495, the report shows that most states avoid taxing services that only businesses purchase, thereby limiting costs for businesses. On the other hand, including most consumer services means that everyone helps pay a portion of the tax. Taxing people who rent a DVD, but not those who go to the movie theatre, for example, is not an equitable approach. n
Bert’s office is in a mobile home at 262 Coldwater Brook Road, Oxford, Maine. Phone: (207) 743-9667, E-mail: kaufhubert@aol. com. Free coffee and conversation hours are Wednesdays and Saturdays between 10 AM and noon. Please call for reservations. n
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Page 8
September 2009
The Theater At Monmouth’s Carousel A Community Celebration
The Theater At Monmouth’s 40th season will close with Rodgers and Hammerstein’s finest musical, Carousel. Set in a Maine coastal village, this musical is a fitting season finale for theatergoers wishing to celebrate our beautiful
state and professional Maine theater. Carousel opens on September 24th at 7:30 p.m. in Cumston Hall. Additional performances will run September 25, 26, 27; October 1, 2, 3, 4. Tickets are $22 for adults, $18 for children
and students. For questions and ticket reservations, please call our box office at 207-933-9999 or visit our website, www. theateratmonmouth.org. Both Rodgers and Hammerstein have considered this musical their best collaboration. Richard Rodgers, the composer of the duo, said it was his favorite musical in his autobiography Musical Stages. Time magazine named it the best musical of the 20th century. The show includes the hit musical numbers If I loved You, June Is Bustin' Out All Over, and You’ll Never Walk Alone. This beautiful, touching show is a celebration of community as professional leads are joined by a chorus of community members. A descrip-
tion of the show can be read at www.theateratmonmouth.org. Bill Van Horn will direct this production, with musical direction by Marcia Gallagher. Carousel will be held in historic Cumston Hall, where the acoustics are unparalleled for musical productions. The Theater At Monmouth, founded in 1970, is a repertory company of professional theater artists from across Maine and the United States. Cumston Hall is in the National Registry of Historic Buildings since 1976 and is handicap accessible. For Carousel tickets go to: theateratmonmouth.org or call 207933-9999. n
Central Maine Business NEWS www.centralmainetoday.com
Bob Marley Is Coming To L-A Celebrating 15 years as a stand-up comic, Bob Marley is one of the hottest and most soughtafter comedians in the country. He has been featured in his own special on Comedy Central, and is one of the few comics to do the complete latenight TV circuit: 'The Late Show' with David Letterman, 'The Tonight Show' with Jay Leno, 'Late Night' with Conan O'Brien and 'The Late Late Show' with Craig Ferguson and Craig Kilborn. Marley, a Maine native and University of Maine at Farmington graduate, uses biographical and observational material for his high-energy routines. He began his career in his hometown of Portland,
and then moved to Boston to gain experience in a city known for spawning comedy all-stars. Hear Bob’s take on pizza delivery, ordering food, marriage, nachos and MUCH, MUCH more. The performance is being sponsored by the Odd Fellows’ and Rebekahs’ Home of Maine, as a part of their ongoing fundraising efforts to continue providing quality health care to the citizens of the LA community. Save Sunday, October 18th at 2 pm to spend with Bob. Come Prepared to laugh. For more information or tickets, phone 783 0958 or go to www.laCLT.com. n
The Public Theatre’s Exciting 19th Season Opens Soon! Get ready for a heartpounding, heart-wrenching and heart-warming season at The Public Theatre! “It’s a great cardio workout,” says Artistic Director Christopher Schario, “and a satisfying combination of plays you’re going to fall in love with.” Opening with a thrilling new adaptation of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, and closing with Southern Comforts, a heartwarming comedy about falling in love after 50, you’ll find a play that will appeal to everyone this season. A cornerstone in the cultural life of Lewiston/ Auburn and Central Maine, The Public Theatre’s mission statement of providing high quality professional theatre at an affordable price is more relevant and important
than ever during these complicated economic times. “We believe the Arts are a necessity, not a luxury. With a top ticket price of only $18, we are committed to keeping exciting, Broadway-quality professional theatre accessible for everyone.” And speaking of excitement, get your Halloween muscles in shape this fall when The Public Theatre opens its season with Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, playing Oct 16 - 25. Indulge your dark side with this fiendishly clever adaptation of this classic story of inner demons. Journey with Dr. Jekyll to a secret room in London, and discover the evil that lurks within the heart of each of us. Humor and happiness arrive in December, with two delightful produc-
tions guaranteed to get you in the holiday spirit. For one weekend only, Public Theatre favorite, and DownEast Magazine humorist Susan Poulin performs her hilarious new show, A Very Ida Christmas, Dec 4, 5, and 6th. It’s Christmas time in the tiny Maine town of Mahoosuc Mills, and Ida Le Clair’s holiday spirit is so bright it could light up a Xmas tree. Come on over to Ida’s for the best Christmas ever and get the latest update on her Christmas craft projects with her pals, The Women who run with the Moose. Pick up hilarious tips on the do’s and don’ts of holiday decorating, and discover Ida’s secret in her not-so-secret Santa plan. Ida’s no Scrooge, so banish your humbugs and come prepared for the
funniest Christmas show in Maine! And keep your holiday spirit glowing the following weekend with The Public Theatre’s acclaimed and beloved adaptation of A Christmas Carol, playing Dec 11, 12, and 13th. Created by The Public Theatre, and now published and performed by theatres around the world, this inventive adaptation has been a Lewiston/Auburn tradition for over 16 years! Featuring six actors and a fiddler, Dickens’ language and characters come to life in a way you’ve never seen before. With family friendly performance times, and tickets for children 12 and under only $10, this production makes a great gift for the whole family. The new year begins
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with the humorous, poignant and thoughtful play Visiting Mr. Green, playing Jan 29 – Feb 7. When an elderly Jewish dry cleaner walks into the path of an oncoming yuppie’s car, a judge with a sense of humor requires the young man to pay a series of weekly visits to his victim. What starts out as an “Odd-Couple” style comedy about two worlds colliding becomes a surprising and powerful story about the dangers of intolerance and isolation. Pay a visit to Mr. Green. This poignant award-winning Off-Broadway play is a trip worth taking. Just in time for spring, TPT presents the provocative new play Magnetic North, March 19 – 28. The laws of attraction cannot be denied, but when temptation pulls you, which direction will you go? Told with startling honesty, intelligence and humor, Magnetic North explores the faith in faithfulness and the fine line between flirtation and betrayal when a husband stumbles upon the email address of a former girlfriend and is pulled towards the past. 8 lbs. ORECK
Follow your compass to TPT for this sexy and compelling play. The 2009-2010 season ends with the delightful comedy, Southern Comforts, playing May 7 - 16. This Off-Broadway comedy follows the awkward and endearing romance between a taciturn Yankee widower and a spunky southern grandmother and the reality of falling in love after 50. Set in their own ways, with separate families, habits, political opinions and households of furniture, these stubborn old dogs learn a few new tricks about the importance of compromise and the rewards of change. Individual tickets, subscriptions, gift certificates and group rates (for parties of 10 or more) are available for all productions. In our busy world, going to the theatre is a great way for a busy group of friends to “finally get together.” For more information visit www.thepublictheatre.org or call 782-3200. The Public Theatre is located at Lisbon & Maple St. in downtown Lewiston. n
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September 2009
Mainers Urged To Sign Up For Free Disposal of Pesticides
Hundreds of Maine citizens live unaware of a quiet crisis lurking in or near their homes. In barns, basements, sheds, or garages throughout the state reside tons of banned and unusable pesticides: old chemicals with infamous names like DDT, lead arsenate, 2,4,5-T, and chlordane. Often, new owners of older homes or farms discover they have inherited hazardous waste. When they do, citizens face a dilemma: hire an expensive hazardous waste disposal service or dump the chemicals illegally, inviting harm to the environment and public health. Fortunately, there’s a third option that’s both legal and responsible. Even better, it’s free, simply by contacting the Maine Board of Pesticides Control (BPC). This fall, the state regulatory agency will dispose of banned pesticides or pesticides that have become caked, frozen, or otherwise rendered unusable. And, again, there is no cost to
homeowners. “We urge people holding these chemicals to contact us immediately to register,” says Paul Schlein, BPC Public Information Officer. “There will be four sites throughout the state where folks will be able to bring their obsolete pesticides.” The collected chemicals go to out-of-state disposal facilities licensed by the US EPA where they are incinerated or reprocessed. “While offering free obsolete pesticide disposal is expensive for us,” notes Schlein, “it’s a bargain, compared to the cost of cleaning up contaminated soil or water. However, it’s worth noting that future funding is not guaranteed, so be sure to take advantage of this year’s collection
while you can.” Preregistration is required by September 25, 2009. To register, find out collection dates and locations, and learn important information about the temporary storage and transportation of obsolete pesticides, go to the BPC Web site at www.thinkfirstspraylast. org. Or, call the BPC at 287-2731. The Maine Board of Pesticides Control (BPC) is the lead state agency for pesticide regulation. It is an administrative unit of the Maine Department of Agriculture, Food and Rural Resources with policy decisions made by a sevenmember, public board. The BPC is creator of “YardScaping,” a statewide program that recognizes the connection between backyards and watersheds, and calls for Maine citizens to make lawn care choices that don’t compromise the environment or the beauty of their lawn. n
Page 9
Skowhegan Savings Celebrates New Graduate
Left to Right: Crystal Deck and Donna Fortin, branch administrator, who provided the Integrity Service training.
Crystal Deck recently graduated from Skowhegan Savings' Advanced Customer Service Program. This program is based on the belief that success is the by-product of the value created for others. Graduates of the program have been through a series of sessions where they learn to 'do the right thing because it's the right thing to do.' Skowhegan Savings' employees learn to create extra value for
Making YOUR Dollar Count We began our business from scratch and had to make every dollar count. Advertising with Jess Small of Turner Publishing our first year was the best advertising decision we made. Jess is great to work with and our ads have shown results. Our business doubled in just that first year! Last year, Jess suggested we branch out in the Oxford Hills Observer and the Western Maine Foothills and our business grew again. She also suggested we ‘write up an article’ and the results far exceeded our expectations with many new clients. When we think of advertising we think of Jess at Turner Publishing.
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their customers, solve problems, find out people's needs so that they can better serve them, assume responsibility, listen to customers, practice teamwork, help customers and set goals. Crystal works in the Call Center at the Main Branch in Skowhegan. John Witherspoon, president of Skowhegan Savings, attended the graduation ceremony and said, “We are focusing on delivering integri-
ty service at Skowhegan Savings, and the kind of training that Crystal has received will not only benefit Crystal in her career, but more importantly it will benefit our customers. I have been pleased to see how this Integrity Service training has helped enrich our employees’ lives, and in turn, it has allowed us to deliver a much better service experience to our customers throughout our nine branches.” n
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Page 10
September 2009
A Friendly Wager John McDonald
Sherm Ames knew how to squeeze a dollar and was loath to part with a penny if there was any good way to avoid it. For that reason he was brutal at yard sales, haggling for hours over a single item. He was the same in the stores in town - trying to shave every nickle and dime he could off the price of any item in the store. One year he and his wife Thelma were at the Blue Hill Fair seeing the sights - going up one side of the gaudy midway and down the other. Most of the sights they had seen many times before because the Blue Hill Fair people prided themselves in having the exact same things - same venders, same games, same novelty acts - in the exact same places year-afteryear. It was comforting in, a way. That’s why Sherm and Thelma were genuinely surprised on this particular visit to see something new and different right there on the Blue Hill Fair midway as bold as brass. Sitting there before them was an openstyle airplane and standing next to the plane was a man who looked like he might be the pilot. Next to him was a sign offering airplane rides for $5 each. Well, neither Sherm nor Thelma had anything like five dollars between them and what little they did have was reserved for “essentials” like fried dough, red hot dogs and hot Italian sausages. Sherm knew there was nothing like a spicy sausage to keep you up all night remembering all the fun you had at the
fair. Now, the pilot wasn’t doing much business at this time so he thought he’d had some sport with Sherm and Thelma. He told Sherm that he’d take him and his lovely wife, Thelma, for a ride in his plane and if he could sit through the entire ride without saying a single word, the ride would be free. Sherm didn’t know much about airplane rides but he knew that was no bet to make with a Down Easter. It took a lot to fluster Sherm and he’d been known to go for days, sometimes weeks, without uttering a word. So, Sherm took the wager. Within minutes Sherm and Thelma and the pilot were flying high above the midway. Once he reached a top altitude of about three-thousand feet he began a steep, frightening nose-dive. A second before potential impact the pilot pulled out of the dive and soared back into the sky. Sherm sat there as quiet as a church mouse. It would take more than a neardeath experience to get him to open his mouth. Before long the pilot was doing wild loopdee-loops, wreckless barrel-rolls, dangerous leaf-falls and every other hair-raising trick he could think of. Sherm remained stone-silent. After all, a free ride was a free ride and he wasn’t going to lose this bet over a few silly words, even if they might be his last. Finally, after making
a few more erratic loops around the fairgrounds and buzzing a few of the livestock barns, the pilot realized he was just wasting precious fuel; he wasn’t going to make Sherm talk. So he brought his plane in for a landing. Sitting there in the cockpit, shutting down the engine and taking off his leather helmet, the pilot was some discouraged. Then, in a voice that sounded one part aggravated and one part impressed, the pilot said: “You are something, mister. Wasn’t there any time during that ride when you felt like saying anything at all?” Sherm sat silent for a minute and then said: “No, not really. Well, there was a time I had to bite my tongue when Mother fell out but otherwise, no!” John McDonald is a humorist and storyteller who performs regularly throughout New England. He is the author of several best selling books including: Down the Road a piece: A Storyteller’s Guide to Maine, A Moose and a Lobster Walk into a Bar, The Maine Dictionary (a humorous look at Maine’s words and phrases) and his CD, Ain’t He Some Funny! The Best of John McDonald is available at (www.islandportpress. com). John’s e-mail address is mainestoryteller@yahoo.com. Call 899.1868 for bookings. n
John McDonald Maine Storyteller All seriousness aside... For your next event, consider adding John McDonald's "A taste of Maine humor" to the program. John has been entertaining audiences for over 25 years and he gets funnier every year. When not telling funny stories, John writes a weekly syndicated column and hosts Portland's #1 rated weekend radio talk show. He has also written three books, including the best sellers: "A Moose and a Lobster Walk into a Bar" and "The Maine Dictionary." For booking information call: 899.1868 or email: mainestoryteller@yahoo.com As Downeaster Tink Billings says: "Ain't he some funny!"
Central Maine Business NEWS www.centralmainetoday.com
Bank Employees Raise Over $5400 for Relay
Torri Jean Jones, Robert Hodge, Sandra Jones, Donna Gardner, Sabrina Sontag, Hailey Sontag and Bert Gosselin represent Androscoggin Bank at the 2009 Relay for Life.
At the 2009 Relay for Life, Androscoggin Bank employees raised over $5,400 for the American Cancer Society. The total amount raised was third highest out of 63 teams in the Androscoggin region. Employee Bert Gosselin raised over $2,000 and walked in the Relay for 10 hours! “We are proud to participate in the Relay for Life. We honor those who have battled cancer by supporting the valuable research and programs of the American Cancer Society,”
said Carrie Lacasse, vice president and team organizer. Androscoggin Bank
employees have raised over $11,000 for the American Cancer Society. n
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Sale With The Stars Our sales consultants are some of the best trained sales stars in the business. Don’t you want to work with the best? Even if you have no experience, you may have what it takes. What’s needed? (1) A Desire to Help Your Clients Succeed. (2) A Dedicated Work Ethic. (3) A Desire For YOU to Succeed. (4) A Positive Attitude. (5) Team Spirit. (6) Ability to Work Under Deadlines. Not only are our sales consultants some of the best in the business, they are also some of the best compensated in the business. What do we offer you for your efforts? (1) Excellent Sales Training (2) Immediate base pay with commission structure (3) Health Benefits after probationary period (4) Retirement Benefit (5) Qualified Territory and Clients If this sounds like something you feel you deserve and want in your life, call us between the hours of 8 AM to 10 AM at 225-2076 and ask for Dan Smiley to schedule a time for us to meet you. Only call if you are serious about your career and have the qualifications listed above. EOE - Turner Publishing Inc. “When Marketing Matters”
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Central Maine Business NEWS www.centralmainetoday.com
September 2009
Page 11
Protect Your Health During Tough Times
In this challenging economy, many people have curbed discretionary expenses like vacations, entertainment and shopping excursions. Unfortunately, many folks – even those with medical insurance – are also cutting back on healthcare services they can no longer afford, including preventive care, check-ups and medications for chronic conditions. This short-term budgetary fix could have disastrous long-term effects, as easily treated or preventable conditions morph into much more serious – and expensive – illnesses. While our government wrestles with solving the national healthcare crisis, here are a few suggestions for stretching your healthcare dollars and ensuring your family receives proper care: Use your plan wisely. Most health insurers supply educational materials on preventive care such as quitting smoking, weight loss and chronic disease management (like diabetes and high cholesterol). Many even provide financial incentives for completing treatment
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programs, getting immunizations and using generic drugs, since these practices save money in the long run. Check your carrier's website for details, or visit the HHS's "Prevention" site (www.hhs.gov/safety) for information and web links on such topics as fitness, nutrition, risky behavior modification and much more. Free screenings. Many pharmacies, clinics and health organizations such the National Kidney Foundation (www. kidney.org) and the American Academy of Dermatology (www.add.org) provide free screenings for illnesses such as kidney disease, skin cancer, diabetes and heart disease. Search "free screenings" at www.hhs.gov for nearby screenings. Bargain with providers. Before going without needed care, speak to your doctor, dentist or hospital about your financial difficulties and see if they'll work with you to reduce fees or allow installment payments. They may also be able to suggest alternate treatments or connect you with programs that will help pay for your care.
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For example, most pharmaceutical companies offer patient assistance programs (PAPs) that provide uninsured and low-income people access to drugs they couldn't otherwise afford. Ask your doctor, pharmacist or clinic how to proceed, or visit Partnership for Prescription Assistance (www.pparx.org), which has enrollment information on over 475 public and private PAPs, including links to Medicaid programs. Laid off? File for COBRA. Under the 2009 economic stimulus plan, the government will pay 65 percent of the cost of COBRA coverage for up to nine months for employees laid off between September 1, 2008, and December 31, 2009. Granted, coverage is still expensive, but far less so than if you were uninsured and incurred a serious accident or illness. Use public resources. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) helps fund over 7,000 community health centers serving millions of uninsured and underinsured Americans. Patients pay based on what they can afford for services such as routine checkups, maternity care, immunizations, prescription drugs, and dental, mental health and substance abuse care. To learn more about this program and find the closest HHS-supported center, visit http://bphc.hrsa.gov. In addition, many university teaching hospitals and dental schools operate clinics on a slid-
By Jason Alderman ing payment scale. Medicaid. Many uninsured people not yet eligible for Medicare can obtain medical coverage through state-administered Medicaid programs. To learn more, visit www.cms.hhs.gov/MedicaidGenInfo. Don't let financial worries cause you to ignore your family's health needs. Resources are available; you just need to seek them out. Jason Alderman directs Visa's financial education programs. Sign up for his free monthly e-Newsletter at www.practicalmoneyskills.com/ newsletter. n
Governor Ceremonially Signs Corrections System Legislation
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Governor Baldacci signs LD 1224, "An Act Regarding the Operation of County Jails and the State Board of Corrections." On left is George Jabar, commissioner of Kennebec County and member of the Maine Board of Corrections. To the right of the Governor is Rep. Patsy Crockett (D-Augusta), sponsor of the bill.
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For Bookings, call Ellen Crocker, 12 Manning Drive • West Gardiner, ME 04345 Tel. 207-724-3774 www.garycrocker.com
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Page 12
September 2009
Central Maine Business NEWS www.centralmainetoday.com
Kennebec Savings Bank Encourages Employees To Continue Education Eight employees of Kennebec Savings Bank received Northern New England Center for Financial Training (NNECFT) certificates at the Annual Student Awards Banquet recently in Auburn. The banquet, held at the Hilton Garden Inn Auburn Riverwatch, allows the NNECFT organization to formally recognize individuals who have achieved awards, diplomas, and certificates upon completion of a program. Instructors, past NNECFT leaders, and bankers closely tied to the goals of the organization are also acknowledged. Amanda Parenteau, an employee of Kennebec Savings Bank since November of 2007, received her Certified Teller Certificate at the Annual Student Awards Banquet. (See article below) Seven other Kennebec Savings Bank employees who previously earned Certified Teller Certificates were recognized at the Annual Student Awards Banquet for furthering their banking
From left to right: Mary Ann Smart, Amy Foss, Pamela Kimball, Jayne Ladd, Sherry Furbush, Andrea McArthur, Barbara Halperin, and CEO Mark Johnston
education, as well. Andrea McArthur received her Advanced Bank Teller Certificate. Amy Foss, Sherry Fur-
bush, and Barbara Halperin received their Advanced Bank Teller and Customer Service Associate Certificates.
Pamala Kimball and Mary Ann Smart both were awarded with an Advanced Bank Teller and Customer Service Representative Certificates. Lastly, Jayne Ladd earned several certificates including: Advanced Bank Teller, Customer Service Associate, Customer Service Representative, and Personal Development. President and CEO of Kennebec Savings Bank, Mark Johnston, spoke about the Bank employees’ commitment to ongoing education, “I am proud that KSB’s employees are empowered to learn more, both to better themselves as well as to better serve our customers. These Certificates enable our personnel to aid in surpassing customer expectations, building our reputation, and enhancing our knowledge of the industry in general.” To learn more about the Northern New England Center for Financial Training or the courses offered, please visit https://www.cftnne.com. n
KSB Congratulates Twenty-Third Certified Teller Amanda Parenteau of Kennebec Savings Bank received her Certified Teller Certificate from Northern New England Center for Financial Training (NNECFT) at the Annual Student Awards Banquet recently in Auburn. Parenteau, an employee of Kennebec Savings Bank since November of 2007, received her Certified Teller Certificate at the Annual Student Awards Banquet. In addition to this noteworthy distinction, Amanda was recognized as an honor student. She lives in West Gardiner with her husband, Chad, and her two children, Izabella and Keagan. In order to become a Certified Teller, each candidate is required to have a minimum of one year of teller experience as a teller, as well as a written recommendation verifying their exceptional job and skill performance. Two classes, Principles
of Banking and Law and Banking Applications, offered by the NNECFT, must be completed. Applicants must also take the Teller Customer Relations seminar offered by the Maine Association of Community Banks. After the above criteria are met, students are given a two-hour examination over the material studied within the program. It is administered only twice each year and a passing grade must be received in order to become a Certified Teller. Amanda Parenteau was the twenty-third Kennebec Savings Bank employee to receive this designation. n
View A Great Selection of Listings of Maine Mountains & Lake Properties Online
Amanda Parenteau and CEO Mark Johnston
Miller Joins Androscoggin Bank
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Donna L. Miller has joined Androscoggin Bank’s mortgage team as assistant vice president and mortgage loan officer. Miller has over twenty years of experience in banking specializing in all areas of retail lending and customer service. “We are really enthusiastic about Donna Miller’s contribution to our team. I believe that her experience will play a very important role in our ability to provide superior mortgage services to our customers,” said Bruce Winter, vice president and mortgage loan manager. Miller, of West Bath, is a graduate of the New England School of Banking and was previously a mortgage advisor at Key Bank. Donna is a member of the Southern Midcoast Maine Chamber of Commerce Fundraising Committee. n
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Septembers issue features these Advertisers and more!
Thought for the Day
“To guarantee success, act as if it were impossible to fail.”
- Dorothea Brande
Castlenorth Real Estate, White Pine Properties, Regency Mortgage, Amnet Realty, Leavitt Realty - Louise Nash, Coldwell Banker Lakes Region Properties, Jusst Real Estate - Stephanie S. Silva, Stanley’s Furniture Mart, Camp in Eustis, Twin Town Homes, Franklin Savings Bank, Village Square Realty, Kersey Real Estate, JRA Sealmaster, Moose Creek Log Homes, Century 21 Advantage - Linda Taylor, Basement Technologies, Village Realty Inc., Berner Real Estate, Hammond Lumber, Riverside Realty, Equine Homes, Leavitt Realty - Tony Koris, Oxford Federal Credit Union, Schiavi Home Builders, and Lakepoint Real Estate To list your real estate agency or for more information, call (207) 225-2076
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Central Maine Business NEWS
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Ask the Trainer
Many people suffer from joint and muscle pain. The causes are numerous and can occur at any age nowadays. It used to be that joint pain was primarily associated with arthritis in the elderly or caused by a specific injury. Now recent studies are relating non-injury pain to toxins and pollutants that we are exposed to. These toxins can be found in the foods that we eat which contain preservatives or pesticides. We are being bombarded with ever-increasing levels of pollution in our air, water and food. It is impossible to escape pollution and its destructive effects on our bodies. The toxins from pollution accumulate in the tissues of the body and no one can dispute the direct relationship between toxicity and disease. There are ways to counteract the effects of pollution and toxins by detoxifying your body and taking proactive measures to strengthen your immune system and strengthen your body in general. Detoxifying your body nutritionally is an intense process and should be performed under the direction of a nutritionist or holistic practitioner. One of the oral herbal treatments for detoxifying your body to assist in the relief of joint and muscle pain is Glucosamine Chondroitin MSM. This is great for knee pain but takes about 30 days before significant reduction in knee pain is noticed. The following herbs are anti-inflammatory, which also help rid toxins. They are bioflavonoids, found in most citrus fruits; turmeric root; quercetin, found in onions; ginger, 500mg - 2000 mg per day taken in no more then 500mg increments; and Boswellia. More about these herbal remedies can be found in
September 2009
Ease the Pain
Da Silva, et al. Pharmacological evaluation of the anti-inflammatory activity of a citrus bioflavonoid. J. Pharm Pharmacol 1994; 46:118-22. There are other simple things you can do to alleviate joint and muscle pain. Stress can build up toxins in your body and add to joint and muscle pain. Eliminating or minimizing these stresses can help with joint and muscle pain. With family and job responsibilities we are all multi-tasked. Recognize when you are putting too many tasks on your plate and allow time for you, every day. Set one hour a day aside to take care of you. Go for a walk or read a book, whatever relaxes you most. Invest in yourself by learning the practices of Yoga breathing. Once you learn these principles, just 10 minutes a day of this type breathing will not only assist in the detox of your system but it can decrease blood pressure, increase metabolism for weight loss and allow every organ in your body to perform more efficiently. For back, knees and foot pain, sleeping with a pillow between your legs or elevating your legs on a pillow while sleeping on your back can help. Proper shoes with good soles and routinely stretching throughout the day will help as well. Gentle muscle massage and deep tissue massage can help stimulate blood flow and rid toxins in the
muscles. Lastly, also make sure your body is getting the rest it needs to meet the demands you expect from it and try not to fill it up with poisons from over consumption of alcohol and sugars. Live Long, Live Well. Jodi R. Cornelio Personal Trainer, Nutritionist n
Page 13
Gilbert Invited to Mayors Conference in Paris
Mayor Laurent F. Gilbert
Mayor Laurent F. Gilbert, Sr.--at the recommendation of the Quebec Government Delegate to New England, France Dionne--will join an international gathering of French-speaking mayors on October 1, 2009, in Paris, France, focusing on "Cities and the Dialogue of Cultures." The gathering will mark the 30th anniversary of the Association Internationale Des Maires Francophones (AIMF), a branch of the Organization Internationale De La Francophonie (OIF). Gilbert will be attending at no cost to the City of Lewiston. Started as a small club of northern Frenchspeaking countries in 1970, the Francophonie has since evolved into a global organization whose numerous branches cooperate with its member states in the fields of culture, science, economy, justice, and peace. The Francophonie has been considered a French version of the Commonwealth
of Nations and strives to promote cultural diversity and the use of the Frencwh language amongst member countries and throughout the world. It also aims to stimulate education at all levels, economies, and lasting development, as well as impact major global debates. Officially invited by Pierre Baillet, of the AIMF, French-speaking Gilbert noted, "It was an honor to be recommended by the Quebec Government Delegate to New England. As I have now received the actual invitation to participate, I am looking forward to meeting mayors from around the world and exchanging thoughts and ideas with them." Gilbert will indeed be interacting with mayors from numerous countries to include Egypt, Canada, Morocco, Togo, Madagascar, France, Romania, to name but a few. At current time, there is only one other confirmed
United States mayor attending, Mayor Joey Durel, Jr., of Lafayette, Louisiana, who is also the president of the Lafayette Parish Consolidation Government. Specifically, the conference will focus on a new strategy to achieve inclusive societies. The strategy is based upon inter-cultural dialogue applied to the workplace, to neighborhood life, to youth, to the media, and to the arts. The strategy is touted as one that leads to harmonious interaction between persons and groups with different identities, as well as favoring social cohesion and economic development. Attending mayors will consider what tools they can use; what the impact is of inter-cultural dialogue on economic and social development; and what might be the role of networks in developing such an approach to dialogue. In addition, Gilbert will also attend workshops entitled Entrepreneurship and Health, Including Children's Healthcare; Neighborhood Schools and Other Neighborhood Spaces Where Dialogue Can be Useful; and The Roles of Networks and Networking in Pluralism. Gilbert will also participate in a "Nuit Blanche," a 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. focus on contemporary arts. The purpose of the event is to make art accessible to everyone, giving value to a shared heritage through contemporary artworks via a festive atmosphere. n
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September 2009
Kennebec Land Trust Mount Pisgah Conservation Area
Mount Pisgah Fire Tower
Over the past twenty years, hundreds of hikers of all ages have hiked to the top of the Town of Winthrop’s historic Mount Pisgah Fire Tower. From the Tower there are fabulous views of Maine’s forested hills, distant mountains, wetlands and lakes. The Kennebec Land Trust (KLT) owns 637 acres around the 94-acre Mount Pisgah Fire Tower Parcel and also holds a conservation easement on the Fire Tower parcel. These conservation lands in Winthrop and Wayne and a network of trails that cross them, are permanently protected and are open to the public for appropriate uses. Unfortunately, in recent years there has been a great deal of unauthorized motorized vehicle use on roads and paths around Mount Pisgah. On KLT's Nancy’s Bog parcel, trails have been
severely eroded, and in some locations there are gullies and small ponds where once there was a hiking trail. Even with signage noting that motorized vehicles are not permitted, some ATV and four wheeler users ignore these postings and ride on the trails. This illegal use of conservation lands impacts wildlife and plants and has damaged trails that were once available for hiking, mountain biking, and snowmobiling in the winter. KLT will soon be installing a gate on the Bog Road at the entrance to our Nancy’s Bog lands. This gate will control motor vehicle access to KLT’s Nancy’s Bog parcel and to the back (east side) of Mount Pisgah. As with the Mount Pisgah gate, we plan to open the road for winter snowmobile use when the ground is frozen. The Town of Winthrop, the Maine Department of Conservation, the Winthrop Police Department, the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife game wardens, the Kennebec County Natural Resources Conservation Service, and the Winthrop Hillandaler’s Snowmobile Club are assisting KLT as we develop a plan to address this issue. This fall KLT will hold a community meeting to discuss trail improvements and other projects around the Mount Pisgah. We hope to hear from many members of the community. We are looking forward to meeting you, and are interested in your ideas about the stewardship of our conservation lands. For additional information contact: Kennebec Land Trust: www.tklt.org 207-377-2848. n
Central Maine Business NEWS www.centralmainetoday.com
Skowhegan Savings Celebrates New Graduates
created for others. Graduates of the program have been through a series of sessions where they learn to 'do the right thing because it's the right thing to do.' Skowhegan Savings' employees learn to create extra value for their customers, solve problems, find out people's needs so that they can better serve them, assume responsibility, listen to customers, practice teamwork, help customers and set Left to Right: Michelle Stewart and Donna Fortin, goals. Michelle works branch administrator, who provided the Integrity Service in the Main branch of training. Skowhegan Savings, and Jessica works in the Call Center there. John Witherspoon, president of Skowhegan Savings, attended the graduation ceremony and said, “We are focusing on delivering Integrity Service at Skowhegan Savings, and the kind of training that Michelle and Jessica have received will not only benefit them their careers, but more importantly it will benefit our customers. I have been pleased to see how Left to Right: Jessica Brown and Donna Fortin this Integrity Service training has helped enMichelle Stewart and Jessica recently rich our employees' lives, and in turn, graduated from Skowhegan Savings' it has allowed us to deliver a much betAdvanced Customer Service Program. ter service experience to our customers This program is based on the belief that throughout our nine branches.” n success is the by-product of the value
Hospice Announces Staff Promotion
Jillian Fortin Jillian Fortin, B.S., has accepted the position of youth services coordinator at Hospice Volunteers of Waterville Area (HVWA). She will develop and implement bereavement and end-of-
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life peer-support services for children, teens and their families; recruit and train volunteer facilitators who provide youth services; coordinate Hope’s Place, a year-round program for grieving children and teens; and plan and coordinate Camp Ray of Hope, HVWA’s annual statewide weekend retreat for grieving families and individuals. Fortin first became a member of the HVWA team in 2007 as a University of Maine intern and was subsequently brought on staff as HVWA’s program coordinators assistant when she gained a comprehensive knowledge and experience in all realms of the organization with a focus on HVWA’s bereavement services for children and teens. Fortin is a graduate of the University of Maine, Augusta and holds a BS in Mental Health and Human Services. She resides in Skowhegan. Fortin can be reached at 873-3615 x 11 or jfortin@
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September 2009
Page 15
Rangeley Museum Inducts Clem and Bud Field into Loggers Hall of Fame
Rangeley Lakes Region Logging Museum inducted Clem and Bud Field into its Loggers Hall of Fame. (Peggy Yocom Photo)
On Friday evening July 24th, the Rangeley Lakes Region Logging Museum inducted a father and son team into the Loggers Hall of Fame: Mr. Clement Field (posthumously) and Mr. Bud Field of Rangeley. Begun in 1985, the Museum’s Loggers Hall of Fame honors people who have worked in the woods for a significant part of their lives and who have made valuable contributions to lumbering in the western Maine mountains. “It’s one of the most important things we do,� says Museum President and retired logger Rodney Richard, Sr. Clem and Bud Field join a distinguished list of local woodsmen that, since 2004, includes Clarence Jones, William Coolong, Cary Keep, Stan Bartash, Raymond Vallee, Edwin Lowell, and Lewis Abbott. When asked about changes in the woods, Mr. Field said, “D.C. Morton and I, we’re some of the old-time loggers. We used the birch hook, and cant dogs, and chainsaws. Today, their machines are like lawnmowers. They call them a harvester, and what they do is cut down the trees. Then they limb them by machine, haul them
with the machine, load them with the machine, and unload with the machine. So a truck driver doesn’t touch a log any more, evidently,� Mr. Field laughed. “We did all of that by hand.� Mr. Field started working in the woods the summer of 1942, after he graduated from Rangeley School. “I drove gravel truck,� he remembered, “and for two years, we built the road through from Little Kennebago Lake to Coburn Gore. Right across country. We would haul gravel in the summer time—Morton had four trucks that he could put gravel bodies on. And in the winter, we put stake bodies on them and hauled pulp.� During those years, Mr. Field and a fellow worker lived in a tent in the summer time and camped on the side of Kennebago Lake. They ate in woods camp cookhouses. “In those days, they fed pretty good too,� Mr. Field laughed. “They had everything. Steak! They went a lot for sweet stuff, too. Cookies. Doughnuts. We had one cook, old “Gramp� Fraser up at Crowley Brook─used to make raisin pies. He was quite an old man. Nice guy. Later, when we hauled right by his cookhouse,
he invited us to stop anytime, have a piece of pie.� Mr. Field also helped build the road from Abbott Brook to Parmacheenee, as well as the Lincoln Pond Road that ran across Magalloway all the way to Eustis. After the roads were built, he hauled logs on them, south to Berlin and north to Coburn Gore and Lac Megantic. “One winter,� he said, “I hauled a load to Lake Megantic and just dumped them on the lake. And I didn’t quit til the water started coming on top of the ice in the spring.� For a year or so, Mr. Field operated a bulldozer at Coburn Gore and built woods roads there for summertime roads. Then, he worked as a timber cruiser for several years. “It’s a job you can like a lot,� he recalled. “You do an awful lot of walking. And in the winter time, it’s on a pair of snowshoes. Oh, yeah,� he smiled, “I did that summer and winter for three years. I wore out two pair of snowshoes.� His job was to walk the Brown Company land and see if there was enough wood to start cutting. “In there, it was mostly spruce and fir. And down on the lower end, there was a lot of hardwood. We
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cut everything, anything that was due to be cut. What we went for was pulp that was at least seven or eight inches on the butt. And the hardwood had to be at least 12 inches and up. Nothing smaller than that. You couldn’t even haul a piece of wood into the mill that was less than six inches, and, here, all that wood’s going through now is about four inches!� “Yeah, it was a different time,� Mr. Field commented. “I hauled logs into Canada, pulped every mill in the state of Maine. And then, we went to a trailer, and I think I hauled probably the first load of pulp that went out of Rangeley on a trailer. No one ever believed you could haul a trailer round this country. Well, you’ve got 35 feet beyond you and you don’t have the traction with a tractor and trailer that you have with a straight rig. Yeah, those trailers move around a little bit,� he laughed. “Well, in those days they didn’t sand like they do now, so I used a lot of tire chains. You come through here, and you put on tire chains!� “Now,� he continued, “they’ve got trucks with engines in them that go up these hills like sports cars! We had trucks that some of these hills didn’t want to go over! Especially Ledge Hill on the Canadian road. Steep! It was a short hill, but it was steep. A lot of trucks in this country couldn’t make it. It’s just this side of Chain of Ponds, Route 27. They’ve changed it all over, they’ve rebuilt the road just in the last few years. They changed that whole hill over I guess! I’ve been intending to go up and look at it, but I’ll go with my pickup, not a trailer,� he laughed. “Oh the roads were a lot different than they are now. Now 90% of the time, they have these right down to tarred roads. They use more sand and salt and calcium. They put everything on these roads now. But I was running a lot of times on snow and ice. I put on an awful lot of chains.� “I hauled about everything somewhere or other,� Mr. Field smiled. “I hauled one whole spring to a city in Rhode Island. And, every year, I hauled a load of fire-
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wood into Rhode Island for a fellow who used to have a camp down on Dodge Pond. It had to be all two-foot birch. White birch. He wanted it to look nice in his fireplace. And I hauled Christmas trees to New York. I made only one trip, and I never wanted to go again. It was out on Long Island, and that was out of my territory! A country boy should never try it,� he laughed, “though I didn’t have any trouble with it,� he laughed. Mr. Field interrupted his work in the woods only for World War II. He served first in the Aleutian Islands of Alaska and then in Europe with General Patton’s Third Army. A member of the motor vehicle corps, he landed in France about six days after D-Day. After working in the woods for 20 years as a truck driver, timber cruiser, and crane operator, Mr. Field left to work for the Navy at Redington, where he remained for 37 years, until retiring at the age of 81. “Woods work is hard work,� he stressed. “It was then. Now you can sit there and run a crane or shovel pretty easy.� Of all the aspects of his work in the woods, Mr. Field remembered one with special fondness: “I liked the horses!� he said. On the timber cruising job for D.C. Morton, he also tended to the horses on the weekends when their weekday caretakers had returned home to Canada. Twice a day, Mr. Field drove from his home out to the logging camp on Deer Mountain. “I wouldn’t let the horses go without feeding them twice! I wanted to make sure they were taken care of. I just went and cleaned them out, fed them—took an hour for a horse to have his lunch. I watered them, grained them, and made sure they were happy,� he laughed. “We had Prince and Queen. And one was called Bob, short for Bobtail. His tail was short, but he was a big gray horse. 2,000 pounds. They were nice and gentle, and they each had a different temperament. They were different than a machine!� When the job moved to another site on Deer Mountain, the horses moved too, Mr. Field
explained. Their hovels could be moved easily by hooking a wrecker to the buildings and taking them to the next site. Mr. Field’s appreciation for horses has been lifelong. “I grew up with them,� he exclaimed. His father, Clement, always had a pair of horses that he used for work in the woods. “Father did a lot of woods work when I was younger,� Mr. Field said. “He cut wood off Bald Mountain for Bald Mt Camps and the Barker. When I was first out driving truck for D.C. Morton, Father was woods boss. He worked for D.C. about six years or so, and he was a Rangeley Lakes guide.� In his work, Mr. Field has seen some amazing trees, and a few as wide as he can spread his long arms. His experiences have given him seasoned perspectives on the Maine woods. “One winter,� he recalled, “I helped Lee Davidson cut a spruce that a five-foot crosscut saw just barely went back and forth six or seven inches. That was in on Daddy’s Ridge, in toward Kennebago. I don’t think there’s one like that in the country anymore. If you see a big one go through town now, it’s only a foot thick. You must have seen their clear cuts out through the woods here? I think they’re ridiculous. Why? Now I see trees going through here four inches in diameter. They haven’t started to grow hardly. They’re using them for chips, and they’re not giving the forest a chance to grow in the state of Maine.� The Rangeley Lakes Logging Museum congratulates Bud Field; his wife Elayne, to whom he has been married for 62 years come this October; and his family. The Loggers Hall of Fame plaque with his and his father’s name on it hangs in the Museum, and the public is invited to view it during Museum hours (Saturdays and Sundays through Labor Day, 11am to 2pm) and during the Museum Open House, Thursday, September 3rd from 6:30pm to 9pm. Submitted by Peggy Yocom, Folklorist, Rangeley Lakes Region Logging Museum.n
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