NONPROFIT U.S. POSTAGE PAID GORHAM, ME PERMIT NO. 10
Volume 22 Number 8 April 21, 2016
SINCE 1995—A FREE, VOLUNTEER-RUN, BIWEEKLY COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER Suspicious Planning Board Discussions Continue “Fort” Near on Railroad Ave. Property Public Trails Sheri Faber Staff Writer
Investigated The Planning Board held a spe- cial workshop on April 4 to discuss potential changes to Railroad Avenue. Jon and Cindy Smith, owners of Great Falls Construction, Inc., pre- sented their proposal for a five-story building with 30 studio, one- and two-bedroom apartments, a bowling alley and possible other retail ten- ants on 2.93 acres of property they own at 17 Railroad Ave. The building that now houses My Fit 24 and the Gorham School of Music will remain but the derelict storage building on the property will be torn down and overflow parking on part of the property, currently used by Sebago Brewing, will be eliminated. The Smiths are seeking a contract Photo/drawing courtesy of Town of Gorham zone for the project as the maximum Jon and Cindy Smith’s proposal for the Railroad Ave. property includes a bowling alley, height for a building in the urban apartments and multiple parking areas. commercial zone is 35 feet. Building plans have not yet been finalized but the current proposal calls for pates there will be more demand. He on the property (19 of those covered four full stories and a smaller fifth does not expect to seek out college spaces) as well as a total of 30 spaces floor that is integrated into the roof. students as tenants. in the section between the new Smith told the Board that he believes Town codes require two parking building and the My Fit 24 building. the building will be about 60 feet tall. spaces per apartment. Plans call for Smith already has a waiting list for 29 angled spaces on Railroad Ave., 10 some of the apartments and antici- angled spaces on Elm St., 46 spaces Continued on Page 7 Boy Scouts’ Highest Achievement Photo credit Rob Lavoie Compiled by last home game while balancing a passion for both Passersby found a suspicious fort dug into Gorham TimesS StTaffFF of the Gorham football and baseball, which is very the ground near the Weeks Rd. public trails. Grizzlies. challenging. In Troop 817, we know Gorham resident Timothy O’Brien, According to that Scouting is not our boys only son of Tim and Stacy O'Brien, attained Trevor Jones, interest, and we give them the flex- Sheri Faber Boy Scouts’ highest rank of Eagle Scout one of O’Brien’s ibility to work around their other Staff Writer on April 7. O’Brien belongs to Troop Scout leaders, activities. We’d like to think this a In a recent issue of the Gorham 817 in Gorham. He began as a Tiger “only about five major reason why Tim is the third Times’ Police Blotter, an entry dat- Cub Scout in Pack 74 as a first-grader percent of boys Eagle Scout from our small troop in ing back to December 6 noted that at Narragansett School and has been a who enter the less than a year and a half.” a person walking along the trails Scout for eight years. scouting pro- Photo credit Stacy O’Brien When asked about reaching the rank off of Weeks Road contacted the For his Eagle Scout project, gram achieve of Eagle, O’Brien remarked, “It’s an Gorham Police Department after O’Brien led and completed several the rank of Timothy O’Brien amazing accomplishment to reach the seeing what the caller described improvements to the athletic field at Eagle Scout. recently earned his high honor of Eagle Scout. Thanks to as a fort in the woods. The caller Narragansett School. The project Reaching scout- Eagle Scout rank after my leaders for teaching me to instill the found it suspicious but officers included scraping and painting the ing’s highest years of hard work Scout Law and Oath into my everyday who came out to check the struc- football goal posts and player bench- rank requires and dedication. life. I owe a big thanks to my parents, ture reported it as a “project of es. His project also included installing sustained effort scout leaders and troop for their sup- some sort or kids being very cre- a 25-foot flag pole and a sign on the over several port, to the local businesses that donat- ative.” There was no trash or dam- field’s scoreboard. He selected this proj- years, and most of the time other ed towards my project, and to my foot- age to property and the structure ect because he wanted to give back to interests take over for boys long ball teammates for all their hard work!” did not appear to be anything that the Gorham Youth Football program before they reach Eagle. What’s most O’Brien is in the eighth grade at St. would or could be used to harm after playing football for six years. His remarkable about Tim is that he’s Brigid School in Portland and plans to others according to police. project was completed in time for the remained involved in the program attend Cheverus in the fall. Residents of the area use the trails for recreational activity and FARMER'S MARKET & DELI after word spread about the struc- insidetheTimes OPEN FOR BUSINESS 15 Blotter 15 Classified 6 Municipal 11 Sports Article on page 3 Continued on Page 7 15 Calendar 13 Community 7 School NEWS FROM AUGUSTA The Gorham Times asked our three state legislators from Senate District Six, House District 26 and House District 27 to provide us with “News from Augusta.” We publish their articles on a rotating basis. The submissions are devoted to updates of legislative and administrative news, pro- Bringing the News to All of Gorham posed and passed bills and laws, and developments and events that are of interest and have an impact to Gorham residents. The Gorham Times PO Box 401, 77 South Street reserves the right to edit the submissions and it further reserves the right to reject any submission, in its sole discretion. Gorham, Maine 04038 Phone and Fax: (207) 839-8390 [email protected] www.gorhamtimes.com The Gorham Times is a free volunteer-run Retirement Planning for All Ages community newspaper distributed every other Thursday to more than 100 pick-up sites throughout Gorham. Sen. Amy Volk to retirement. As your career moves to have taken care of before you —— forward, be sure to take advantage actually retire. Knowing your Social News [email protected] Last week, April 11th to the 15th, if your employer offers a 401K plan, Security benefits can also help you to Sports [email protected] was National Retirement Planning and keep an eye on its progress. gauge your savings and how you are Features [email protected] Of Interest [email protected] Week. To that end, I wanted to share Once people have arrived at their looking on your goal. Calendar item [email protected] some information from the week thirties and forties, families, a house, As we all know, life throws us Advertising gorhamtimesadvertising@ that was shared with me as part of and at least one car, have often curveballs and we hit speed bumps gmail.com or 839-8390 that awareness campaign. People of entered the picture. With that, bills along the way that can affect even School News [email protected] all ages can benefit from retirement continue to grow even though your the most carefully planned lives and —— planning; it’s not just an issue for paycheck might also have increased. bank accounts. However, even tak- Subscriptions older, wealthier adults to deal with. However, as in your twenties, saving ing small steps as you can to save for $18/year in Gorham; $23/year elsewhere $13/year for college subscription From students to grandparents, there what you are able to is of the utmost your retirement can make a big dif- —— are steps you can take to help your importance. The National Retirement ference. General Manager Sue Dunn financial future. Planning Coalition recommends this A website that I’d recommend Editor Leslie Dupuis If you’re raising children, you can time of your life as the point at which visiting for information about retire- Business Manager Stacy Sallinen even help them get started saving setting a retirement savings goal and ment planning, no matter your age, Advertiser Coordinator Stacy Sallinen for later in life with steps as simple enlisting a financial planning profes- is www.retireonyourterms.org. Here, Design/Production Shirley Douglas as putting loose change in a jar. Not sional can be of great benefit you and you can find information and tools Police Beat Sheri Faber Staff Writers Jacob Adams, Kathy Corbett, only will they pick up a habit for the your family. about how to get started with saving, John Curley, Bailey O’Brien rest of their lives, they’ll have a nice By your 50s, the National or do some calculations about your Features Chris Crawford little pot of money to start their sav- Retirement Planning Coalition recom- current savings and where they are Photographers Amanda Landry, Stacie Leavitt, ings with. And, once they are teenag- mends that you start thinking about, headed. Roger Marchand, Rich Obrey ers and able to start working, they and hopefully are able to pin down, No matter where you are in life, Public Service Jackie Francis will have an understanding of what it an age at which you will retire. Doing it’s worth taking a few minutes to Sports John Curley, Martin Gagnon means to save. so helps you to gauge how your sav- think about, and act on, saving for School News Andrea Morrell Webmaster Judi Jones As teenagers turn into twenty- ings look, and what you may need retirement. You’ll be grateful you Distribution Coordinator Russ Frank somethings, they have more autono- to adjust in order to reach both your did when it’s your time to step away Distribution Jason Beever, Jim Boyko, Janice my over their savings, and generally savings and retirement age goals. from the workplace. Boyko, Scott Burnheimer, Steve Caldwell, Chris a larger paycheck. If you are in your Then, once you hit your 60s, retire- Crawford, Becky Curtis, Dan Fenton, Janie Farr, twenties, you are also probably bal- ment should be on the horizon. As Russ Frank, Joe Hachey, Chris Kimball, Bob ancing some student loan debt and you start to see retirement approach, (207) 229-5091, Mulkern, John Richard, David Willis the new shock of rent and bills. By it is a good idea to begin researching (800) 423-6900, Interns Avery Arena, Megan Bennett, Mallory Campbell, Hannah Douglas, Elle Spurr, Lydia taking advantage of compound inter- such things as what kinds of Social amy.volk@ Valentine est, the little bit you are able to save Security benefits you can expect, the legislature.maine.gov on a starting salary can grow by leaps Medicare coverage you will have, and Board of Directors and bounds over the years stretching other such matters that you’ll want Bruce Hepler (President), Shannon Phinney Dowdle (Secretary), Alan Bell, Tom Biegel, Katherine Corbett, Peter Gleason, Carol Jones, George Sotiropoulos and Michael Wing Around Town to the Editor —— letters Advertising and Copy Deadlines Town Manager David Cole recently Letters must be less than 300 words, signed with a first and last name, typed or e-mailed and Ad deadline is the Wednesday of the week prior awarded a 25-year service pin to include a phone number. Letters are solely the opinion of the writer and not that of the Gorham to issue date. Go to www.gorhamtimes.com Linda Straw of Baxter Memorial Times. They are published at the discretion of the Gorham Times and are subject to editing. and click on the advertising link for schedule. Library and a 10-year service pin to Editorial Policy Dear Gorham Times, I am impressed with his honest, tire- Dawn Pazmany of Assessing. The Gorham Times takes all reasonable care to prevent Two weeks ago the Gorham High less commitment to representing his errors and disclaims all legal responsibility for any such Water main construction has begun School Humanities class traveled to Gorham constituents. errors, omissions, or typographical errors. The Gorham the State House. We took the trip at Andrew is a dedicated legislator. We Times will print corrections if notified within 48 hours. on Huston Road and Dyer Road as the invitation of Rep. Andrew McLean are represented very well in Augusta! We reserve the right to refuse publication of unsolic- part of a multi-phased improvement who represents Gorham in the House Paula Suttle ited materials. All submissions are subject to editing. plan to increase water pressure and of Representatives. Andrew came to Opinions expressed in the Gorham Times do not nec- fire protection capabilities. The proj- our class in January and spent an hour Dear Gorham Times, essarily reflect those of the staff or publishers.
ect is expected to continue through talking with our students about public If you have not recently driven by the service and his work in the Legislature. North Gorham “swim hole” you are in Printing services by Alliance Press, Brunswick, ME September. After a lively discussion in our class- for a shock. Clint Steele, of Leading Edge room, the students were impressed and An ugly wire fence on top of the par- curious about the Legislative process. apet wall now extends all the way from Chiropractic, and two associates We excitedly accepted Andrew’s invita- the dam almost up to the beach. Those have closed on 10 Preble St. paying tion to visit the State House. of us in the area who have enjoyed $135,000 for the property. The Town We arrived at a chaotic time of day, swimming, fishing and boating now is keeping a portion of the lot at the while folks were waiting to enter the have these options decreased. back end of the property which may Chambers to begin the session. Andrew Ironically the sign tacked to a tree was incredibly busy, but he took the states “Welcome to this Recreational potentially be used for additional time to talk with the students and Facility for all”. Presumably the dam parking in the Village. give them a personal tour of the State owner, Brookfield Energy, installed this House, in between taking votes on the most unwelcoming barrier to block full A tentative street sweeping schedule Legislature floor. access to our beautiful Presumpscot for Gorham is now available in I was impressed with the level of River. What a contrast to the improved the News and Announcements respect Andrew has gained from his col- river access for boaters and fisher- section of the Town website www. leagues in the Legislature. In this year of men that SAPPI has recently done at gorham-me.org. a seemingly disruptive and contentious Dundee, Gambo and Tow Path where political climate in our country, clearly, they have spent considerable money Andrew has chosen to cross party lines installing bridges, parking lots and boat and develop solid relationships with his put-ins. Democratic and Republican colleagues. For thirty-two years I and my off- I know his willingness and abilities to spring have come to North Gorham for be inclusive, impact the ability of legisla- cooling dips in hot weather. A “rite-of- Ad Deadline Publication tion to get passed. passage” for the pre-teens was jumping I am especially grateful to Andrew for off the hydrant. Now no more. Apr 27 May 5 taking care of our students in Augusta. David Alexander
2 | Gorham Times | [email protected] | April 21, 2016 | Celebrating 20 Years as Your Community Newspaper BUSINESS PROFILE Granted Asylum, Congolese Farmer’s Market & Deli Open Family Welcomed to Gorham for Business Kathy Corbett Staff Writer Bailey O’Brien Staff Writer In March 2014, Leanne Cooper, a North Gorham resident and member When you see the bull on the of the Maine People’s Alliance, met roof, you’ll know you’ve made it George Daknsa, a Congolese asylum to the Farmer’s Market & Deli on seeker. She had been asked to pick Ossipee Trail. After opening to a him up from where he was living in warm reception on April 8, owner Westbrook and take him with her to Carl Butterfield is looking forward a rally in Augusta. Over the next hour to serving his customers his specialty he told her why he was in Maine and sandwiches, pizza, salads, and break- gave her a copy of his asylum appli- fast with the freshest ingredients cation. Cooper read the application Photo credit Kim Brooks available. that relayed a horrific story of vio- Butterfield is bringing 30 years of lence and persecution in the war-torn George Daknsa and his wife, Liliane restaurant expertise to his new deli. Photo credit Bailey O’Brien Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) Rwanika, with their son, Kenane, at the “Our mission is to make the best qual- and of Daknsa’s eight-year effort to home of Leanne and Jonathan Cooper on Carl Butterfield, third from left, stands with ity sandwiches in the state,” he said. get justice for victims of abuse. She North Gorham Pond. his employees in front of his newly opened “When you order a sandwich, we take learned that in 2013 his home had business at the old Nicely’s Market location. the meat out of the refrigerator and cut been invaded and his family was lost. his wife and baby had made it safely it right there. It’s as good as it gets.” After barely escaping with his life, he to Rwanda, but were still fearful for With the menu’s sandwich count total- Market & Deli is located in what was sent by colleagues to the United their lives. They talked frequently by ing twenty, the biggest problem will be was formerly Nicely’s Market, a States. Since then he had discovered cell phone and assumed their other deciding which one to try. popular convenience store and his wife and one child were alive. children were dead. The Farmer’s Market & Deli is also sandwich shop that closed last sum- Cooper decided that she had to help When Daknsa landed in Chicago, committed to providing patrons with mer. Customers are excited to have this “very forward moving” man who a complete stranger gave him a bus local meat and produce. Inside the their sandwich spot back, but this had suffered so much and was so ticket to Portland, Maine. Soon after spacious deli is a meat counter and time with a fresh twist. The famous determined to make a new life for arriving, he filled out an applica- room for a planned expansion of Nicely’s bull remains on the roof, himself and his family in Maine. tion for asylum. Unlike refugees their selection of locally-grown fruits serving as a landmark and the inspi- The recent history of the DRC who are vetted before coming to the and vegetables. “We get whatever ration for the deli’s logo. (formerly Zaire) has been one of United States and can work as soon we can locally and from the state of The Farmer’s Market & Deli is civil war and corruption, causing as they arrive, asylum seekers come Maine,” he said. Once the weather located at 397 Ossipee Trail. Hours violent unrest and civilian suffer- on visas. They are not permitted to gets warmer, Butterfield hopes “to are 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through ing. Daknsa, who has a degree in work until 150 days after submitting have produce stands outside on the Saturday and 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Economics, worked for The League an application. Daknsa, who spoke sidewalk on the weekends.” Sunday. A full menu can be found on of Activists for Human Rights in French, learned English at Portland Despite limited advertising, busi- their Facebook page, facebook.com/ Rural Areas documenting human Adult School, stayed at the YMCA ness has been steady. The Farmer’s farmersmarketdeli. rights abuses and reporting them and later in an apartment on Grant to the government. His wife, Liliane Street, aided by a little Portland Rwanika, an attorney from Rwanda, general assistance, Preble Street helped write the reports for use in Resource Center, and members of Baxter Memorial Library’s court proceedings. But the country’s the State Street Church. He was liv- corrupt legal system made him con- ing in Westbrook with a family from tinually subject to threats, abuses, New Director torture and imprisonment. Continued on Page 5 Daknsa and Rwanika were living Mallory Campbell being able with their infant son Kenane, four- GHS Student Intern to focus on year-old Kerstin and six-year-old moving the Kevin, as well as two adopted chil- James Rathbun has been appoint- library for- dren. One night the military invaded ed the new Director of Baxter ward rather their home. The family only escaped Memorial Library. Rathbun began than simply death because the soldiers were dis- working at the library in October maintain- tracted by nearby gunfire. They all 2006 as a Library Assistant in Youth ing it. “I’m ran. Rwanika held onto the baby and Services. In 2008, he applied for also looking hid, but Daknsa did not know what the Public Services Librarian posi- forward to had happened to her or to the other File photo tion and began that position later working with children when he left the country. KNOW WHO TO CALL that year. all the new James Rathbun Several monthsKNOW later he found outWHO TO CALL Rathbun received his Undergraduate staff here and WHEN YOUR BONDS ARE CALLED. in Business Management with a minor forming the WHEN YOUR BONDS ARE CALLED. in Finance and Marketing from Purdue kind of close-knit working group Reinvesting after your bonds are called can seem University in West Lafayette, IN. Later, that will allow us to draw on Reinvesting after your bonds are called can seem overwhelming if you’re not prepared. That’s why it Rathbun went back to school and got each other’s strengths to accom- overwhelming if you’re not prepared. That’s why it his Master’s in Library and Information plish that forward progress,” says makes sense to call Edward Jones. That way you can makes sense to call Edward Jones. That way you can Sciences from Dominican University in Rathbun. find an investment that fits your specific needs. All River Forest, IL. “I would like to thank the staff, find an investment that fits your specific needs. All you have to do to get started is pick up the phone. Despite his lack of a prior rela- the Friends of Baxter Memorial you have to do to get started is pick up the phone. tion to Gorham, Rathbun is very Library, the Trustees, our volun- passionate about his work at the teers, and the other Town depart- SATURDAY, APRIL 30 Call or visit your local financial advisor today. Baxter Memorial Library. “I had ments for all their help over Call9 AM or - 2visit PM your local financial advisor today. never worked in a library before the last year. Our patrons have Edward J Doyle, AAMS® RAINEdward OR J Doyle, SHINE AAMS® Financial Advisor that job and had never been to also been great. I’d also like to Financial Advisor . Gorham. Since then I’ve grown to acknowledge that Pam Turner took . 28 State Street 28FIRST State Street PARISH Gorham, ME 04038 enjoy Gorham very much. My pri- a chance on me 10 years ago and Gorham, ME 04038 207-839-8150 mary relation is still through work, then proceeded to help me devel- CONGREGATIONAL207-839-8150 CHURCH ONE CHURCH ST, GORHAM www.edwardjones.com Member SIPC but by working in the library, op as a professional over those www.edwardjones.com Member SIPC which I view as an integral part of years. I wouldn’t be where I am the town, I feel that I’ve become a today without her help. She left Rummage sale, plant sale, snacks, baked goods and activities for kids. member of the community,” says some big shoes to fill but she took Rathbun. the time to prepare me for that This year, Rathbun is looking for- task and I’ll always be thankful to FUN FOR ALL AGES!! For more info, please call 839-6751 ward to things settling down and her for that,” says Rathbun.
Celebrating 20 Years as Your Community Newspaper | April 21, 2016 | [email protected] | Gorham Times | 3 Land Trust Hires New Staff RISK MANAGEMENT & INSURANCE
Gorham Times Staff to member Cyber Attacks: Businesses Be support and The Presumpscot Regional Land grants from Trust (PRLT) has hired Toby Jacobs L.L.Bean- Prepared as Stewardship and Outreach Maine Land Coordinator. This newly created posi- Trust Grant Ethan Johnson vate customer and employee informa- tion will allow the land trust to build Program, tion; your employee accidentally – or more trails on its lands and better Margaret E. Cyber liability is probably the hot- deliberately – sends an email contain- serve the public with programming. Burnham test topic in the insurance world today, ing private customer information; an “We’re very excited to have this Charitable and with good reason – the threat is employee laptop containing private new position because we can create Trust, and real. Every week there are news articles customer information is lost or stolen more recreational trails and opportu- the Maine Photo credit Rachelle Curran Apse on data breaches. We read about the during travel. Cyber events like these nities for people to learn more about Community big data breaches in the news: Home can have significant impact on your Toby Jacobs the natural world where we live,” Foundation’s Depot, Target, eBay, the US Postal customers, your employees and your said Rachelle Curran Apse, PRLT Fund for Service, JP Morgan Chase, Dominos bottom line. Executive Director. “We’re lucky to Maine Land Conservation. Pizza, and the list goes on. But hackers Here are a few tips to reduce your have someone with Toby’s level of Jacobs will be coordinating the are not just targeting large companies. risk of falling victim to a cyber attack: experience and expertise,” she said. effort to build a three-mile trail There have been data breaches at local • Train employees in cyber security Jacobs has a master’s in conserva- this summer on the Presumpscot pizza parlors, construction companies, principles. tion biology and has spent over a Regional Land Trust’s Mill Brook delis, and many others. The reality is • Install, use and regularly update decade working for environmental Preserve in Westbrook for the that data thieves are simply looking for antivirus and anti-spyware software on organizations. Internationally, he public to access and enjoy the the path of least resistance. As large every computer used in your business. has managed conservation projects serene beauty of Mill Brook and companies continue to get serious • Use a firewall for your Internet in Costa Rica and Honduras. In see the alewife fish migration. about data security, small businesses are connection. Maine, he has surveyed the City of Building the trail will involve becoming increasingly attractive targets • Download and install software Portland’s trees, managed volunteers dozens of volunteers. If you are and the results are often devastating for updates for your operating systems and in Portland’s urban gardens, moni- interested in volunteering please small business owners. applications as they become available. tored shellfish areas for the Maine contact [email protected]. According to a recent study by • Make backup copies of important Department of Marine Resources, and The Presumpscot Regional Land Kaspersky Lab, the average annual business data and information. maintained miles of land trust trails. Trust is a non-profit that conserves cost of cyber attacks to small and • Control physical access to your He also serves on the Board of the and protects lands in Presumpscot medium-sized businesses was over computers and network components. Freeport Conservation Trust. River watershed in Gorham, Gray, $200,000 in 2014. Most small busi- • Secure your Wi-Fi networks. Make “Growing up in Brunswick, I Sebago, Standish, Westbrook, and nesses do not have that kind of sure it is secure and hidden. became fascinated with the natural Windham. PRLT has conserved money lying around. As a result, near- • Require individual user accounts world while exploring the town’s over 1,100 acres of land and has ly 60 percent of the small businesses for each employee. network of trails and I am excited to 7 public access Preserves with victimized by a cyber attack close • Limit employee access to data provide that same opportunity for trails that are free and open to permanently within six months of the and information, and limit authority to others,” said Jacobs. the public, including the 28-mile attack. Many of these businesses put install software. As a community based non-profit, long Sebago to the Sea Trail. Learn off making necessary improvements • Regularly change passwords. this new position is possible due more at www.prlt.org. to their cyber security protocols until For more information about cyber it was too late because they feared the liability, contact your local independent costs would be prohibitive. agent. Many insurance companies now offer a layer of protection that can be Ethan Johnson of added to a commercial policy with Chalmers Insurance an endorsement at a very reasonable has over 13 years of experience in the cost. It is important to talk to your industry. A USM grad- insurance agent to discuss your expo- uate, he is passionate sure and options available to provide about helping people a layer of protection. and giving back to Cyber breaches can occur in a variety his local community of ways. A hacker gains unauthorized of Gorham, where he access to your network and steals pri- lives with his family.
Breakfast Sandwiches Pizza & Pasta Meat Market Veggies And Much More! 839-3112
4 | Gorham Times | [email protected] | April 21, 2016 | Celebrating 20 Years as Your Community Newspaper A Local Family’s Personal Congolese Family Granted Asylum Continued from Page 3 the church when Leanne Cooper met and friends made contributions him. He passed his written driver’s for airfare. Earlier this month, the Journey with Fanconi Anemia test on the first try. Once he could children had medical examinations work, Daknsa found employment and will soon have visas. A Cooper wherever he could, including Sam’s family friend attending school in Kristin Young Club and Catholic Charities, some- Kengalle, Rwanda, and another We all know how the saying goes. times working three jobs at once. A friend who works for the Panzi It’s a wish recited during the happiest friend gave him an old car. Foundation in DRC are working to moments of a family’s life. You feel as After a lengthy interview and FBI bring them to Maine. though once said out loud, it must be background check, George Daknsa’s After his wife, Liliane, came to true because the thought of it not being application for asylum was approved Maine last August, Daknsa told true is unimaginable. It’s the common in February 2015. Of that experience Leanne Cooper he was relieved response when asked, “Do you want he said, “I love America. Systems are that she could “de-traumatize” and a boy or a girl?” The reply, “It doesn’t in place and actually work here.” begin to heal in “such a peaceful, matter, as long as the baby is healthy.” Getting asylum and a path to citizen- quiet place, supportive place.” They There is no greater gift than a Photo credit Kristin Young ship, “is a slow, difficult process, but are expecting a baby in May. North happy, healthy baby. Ten fingers, ten with patience and determination it Gorham neighbors recently attended toes. Although my wish may not have Wesley Young, a sixth-grader at GMS, can happen.” a baby shower for the couple at come true completely, I did have the and his family are holding a benefit dance Last February, he moved to North the Cooper’s home. Daknsa and happiest baby, and I did receive the on April 29th to raise money for Fanconi Gorham to live with Leanne and his family have moved next door greatest gift. Even when the doctors Anemia research. Jonathan Cooper on Middle Jam to an apartment in the home of listed all of the physical things wrong Road. Now that Daknsa had asylum, Cindy Boothby and John Drisko with my son, he was still perfect to his wife and baby could emigrate to as they await the arrival of Kerstin Over the years that fear has come me. “He’s missing a kidney, he’s the US. With help from the Coopers, and Kevin. He currently works as true…not for my son, but for oth- missing ear canals, and his thumbs they came to Maine in July 2015. a research clerk for TD Bank in ers. As a result, I have helped by didn’t finish forming,” they told me. Last fall, a Congolese refugee fam- Lewiston, but it is a temporary posi- raising money for the Fanconi I thought, “So what. People live with ily living in Rochester, New York, tion that will end this summer. Anemia Research Fund (FARF). The one kidney all the time, I can learn called to say that Daknsa’s two other Although the family would like to research FARF has funded over sign language and who cares about children were in a refugee camp stay in the Gorham area, they know the years has resulted in amazing some funky thumbs.” A year later, two in Rwanda. Like other immigrant that employment opportunities may advances in gene therapy, head and words changed my world and their groups, Congolese have a wide- draw them away. “I love the lake neck cancers, the discovery of the meaning was truly overwhelming. reaching communication network. (North Gorham Pond),” he says. “It 19 genes responsible for FA (two “There’s a camp for families with Once their identities were con- feels like home, as I grew up near of them are BRCA1 and BRCA2, the Fanconi Anemia,” my dad said over firmed, the children went to stay Lake Kiva.” But this charismatic, ener- breast cancer genes), and better the phone. I was still in shock from with a Rwandan family to await emi- getic “forward moving” man, grateful transplant outcomes. the diagnosis weeks earlier. I barely gration to the United States. for the help he has received and the Fanconi Anemia patients not only looked at the internet anymore. Every Leanne Cooper organized a friends he has made, is enthusias- experience bone marrow failure, Google search I did produced dev- gofundme event on Facebook and tic about using his skills in his new they are at extremely high risk for astating results and I couldn’t read the Maine People’s Alliance website country. He says emphatically, “It is developing cancers at a much ear- another “life expectancy” statistic. I to raise money for reuniting the important to find out what America lier age such as leukemia, head and couldn’t read about another child in children with the parents they had wants from us, rather than what we neck, esophageal, GI and vulvar the hospital fighting for their life and not seen for three years. Neighbors want from America.” cancers. Researchers love to study I couldn’t read another blog that was Fanconi Anemia because of its abil- dedicated to the loss of a child. ity to help the general population Five months later, I was at Camp find a cure for cancer. Funding for Sunshine in Casco, Maine, sur- Fanconi Anemia research can and rounded by other Fanconi Anemia has made a difference for everyone. families. I was dead inside. My deep- In retrospect, my wish has est fear was knowing instantly that I changed. Would I want a boy or a would fall in love with the children girl? I think my response would be, and it scared me to the core to know “It doesn’t matter, as long as in life I would end up mourning some of we’re happy and can make a differ- them. I was also scared they would ence.” For us, I know both is true. mourn mine.
Please join the Young family for “Ladies Dance the Night Away for FA” at Spire 29 on Friday, April 29th, from 6 - 9 p.m. to benefit the Fanconi Anemia Foundation in support of GMS student Wesley Young who is battling this rare disease. Tickets are on sale at Spire 29 or FMI, check the Gorham Times FB page.
PRLT "Walk Talk" Rob Sanford, department chair of Environ- mental Science & Policy at USM, explains how the size of the drill holes in a piece of stone can help determine how long ago the stone was quarried. Sanford recently led a “walk talk” based on his book, “Reading Rural Landscapes,” a field guide to inter- preting the past by examining the natural and man-made artifacts left by humans that abound in the woods, fields and along the roadways and waterways of New England. The walk was sponsored by the Presump- scot Regional Land Trust and was held on the Little River Preserve in Gorham. Look for information in the next issue of the Gorham Times about the next PRLT walk scheduled for May 21 on the new Millbrook Photo credit Chris Crawford Property in Westbrook.
Celebrating 20 Years as Your Community Newspaper | April 21, 2016 | [email protected] | Gorham Times | 5 CLERK’S CORNER MUNICIPAL Election Day Information Grand Jury The Grand Jury returned the fol- counts of assault on a child less If you are unsure of where you Laurie Nordfors lowing indictments in April: than 6 years old, endangering the Acting Town Clerk vote, you may contact the Town • Kayla Bacon, 28, of Gorham, welfare of a child and aggravated Clerk’s Office at 222-1670 or you can view the Voting Map online at was indicted for theft by unauthor- assault on charges brought by Election Day in Gorham will be ized taking for stealing drugs on Gorham PD. on June 14. Residents will be voting our website. If you are interested charges brought by Gorham PD. • Charles Pettigrow, 46, of on multiple items: a School Budget in working the election in Gorham, • Alexander Buchanan, 22, Sebago was indicted for driving Validation Referendum to approve please contact me at 222-1671. the 2016/2017 School Budget, a vote As a reminder, motorcycle reg- of Falmouth, was indicted for to endanger, operating after sus- to continue with the School Budget istrations were due in March. You aggravated trafficking in sched- pension, violating conditions of Validation Referendum process for can register your bike online or uled drugs on charges brought by release, and eluding an officer on an additional three years, a Special come into the Clerk’s office with Gorham PD. charges brought by Gorham PD. Referendum to authorize the town to your current registration and insur- • Nathanial Shanahan Glavin, 36, • Travis Plowman, 25, of purchase two new fire engines, and ance car. of Gorham, was indicted for theft Gorham was indicted for reckless Fishing season opened April 1. the State Primary Election. by unauthorized taking on charges conduct with a dangerous weapon Get out and enjoy the beautiful We now have three voting loca- brought by Windham PD. and discharge of a firearm or cross- spring weather! tions in Gorham. Ward 1-1 is at • Lee Keene, 27, of Gorham was bow near a building or dwelling on Gorham Middle School on Weeks Laurie Nordfors may indicted for aggravated assault, two charges brought by Gorham PD. Road; Ward 1-2 is at Little Falls be reached at Activity Center on Acorn Street; lnordfors@gorham. and Ward 2 is in Shaw Gym at the me.us or 222-1671 Gorham Municipal Center. Letters Planning Board Results will be going out to registered voters whose voting location has changed. During two April meetings, the lot and site plan to expand congre- Planning Board discussed and voted gate handling area, stockyard and lay on the following items: down areas on Mosher Road. Gravel Wayne Franklin’s request for pit amendment was approved with APRIL 5, 2016 approval of a line change at 3 Hidden findings of fact. The site plan was Brook Drive was approved. tabled to a future consent agenda. The Board recommended to the The Board granted preliminary Town Council Report Town Council that they adopt an approval to PTG Investment Trust amendment to the Land Use and request for three single family condo- Seventy Gorham residents were Historic Preservation Committee Development Code on impact fees. miniums and two commercial units appointed as Election Workers with was accepted by the Town Council. Gledhill Group LLC received pre- with second floor apartments off Main terms that expire April 1, 2018. They expressed their apprecia- liminary and final approval based St. and Garden Ave. A site walk is to MK Kitchen LLC, located at 2 School tion for her service to the Town of on findings of fact and conditions of be scheduled. Street received a liquor license renewal. Gorham. approval for Bramblewood Estates, a The Board discussed and post- The Town Council approved a com- Town Council appointed Mike 10-unit residential condominium proj- poned Dean and Dale Cole’s request bined and updated the Solid Waste D’Arcangelo as the Town Assessor ect on 4 acres off Bramblewood Lane. for approval of two additional lots Flow Control Ordinance and the for a 3-year term which will expire The Board tabled a request from from lot 1 to upgrade an existing pri- Hazardous and Special Waste Materials on May 31, 2019. Portland Cellular Partnership (doing vate way with an extension to meet Incident Ordinance. Full ordinance Town Council changed the status business as Verizon Wireless) for current standards pending resolution details can be found at www.gorham- of the Recycling Committee from approval of a wireless telecommunica- of remaining outstanding items. A site me.org. a standing Committee to a spe- tions facility and equipment shelter off walk is to be scheduled. Gorham’s Land Use and cial Committee that in the future, New Portland Road pending resolu- The Board discussed and post- Development Code that regulates would be formed with members tion of remaining outstanding items. poned Jim and Sharon Gregoire’s signs has been amended. As it is appointed for specific tasks and as A request to add two commercial request for approval of a 6-lot sub- administratively more efficient and needed. use buildings and associated parking division located off Brackett St. less time consuming, the Code The Town Manager was autho- at 17 Laurence Drive in the Industrial with access from Strawberry Lane Enforcement Officer will approve rized to obtain sales studies from Park was tabled. and Brackett pending resolution future projecting signs instead of Peter Mason and Paul Willis for two Shaw Brothers requested approval of remaining items. A site walk was the Town Council. property lots off of Deering Road. to split land out of existing gravel pit scheduled. Town Council will forward a The Town Manager was also request from Mark Faulkner to authorized to obtain a sales study rezone the right side of Shaws Mill from Demetria Chadbourne for the Road from Suburban Residential- property located at 4 Briarwood Manufactured Housing to Roadside Lane. Commercial to the Planning Board Town Council approved an for their Public Hearing and recom- over limit permit for paving proj- WINDHAM CHRISTIAN ACADEMY K-12 mendations. ects in Gorham. (Project Number Dahlia Lynn’s resignation from the 018994.10 on Route 112.)
Complete minutes are available on the town’s website at www.gorham-me.org.
April 27th 6:30-7:30pm
6 | Gorham Times | [email protected] | April 21, 2016 | Celebrating 20 Years as Your Community Newspaper SCHOOL Suspicious Fort Continued from Page 1 ture, many Gorham residents found Department has volunteered to APRIL 13, 2016 the “fort” to be disturbing. dismantle it with the assistance There have been no indications of USM students while preparing of anyone living there and no for the Mud Run being held on School Committee Meeting means of identifying who might April 24. have built it. The structure has Anyone with information about athy orbett Gorham parents Gail Minichiello, K C remained throughout the winter this structure is asked to contact Staff Writer Laura Dyer, and Bethany Woods, and into the spring. As it is ille- the Gorham Police Department addressed the committee with their gal to build a structure on Town or Rob Lavoie of the Gorham The School Committee voted (5-0, concerns about class size, particu- (or any other) property without Conservation Commission at info@ Tim Burns and Dennis Libby absent) to larly for early elementary grades. permits, the Gorham Recreational gorhamconservation.org. approve the FY 2017 budget. Members Committee members Sara Nelson were in agreement that the process had and Suzanne Phillips acknowledged been greatly improved and thanked this is an ongoing issue with increas- Jon Smith Proposal Continued from Page 1 Superintendent Heather Perry for insti- ing enrollment. Chairman Darryl tuting changes that included more in- Wright encouraged parents to regis- Parking spaces on Railroad Ave. bus traffic, parking and vehicles enter- depth presentation and detailed discus- ter children as soon as possible so and Elm St. are partially in the right ing and exiting the site as well as pos- sions with administrators and teachers. the school department can be pre- of way and partially on private prop- sible noise from nighttime commer- The $36,491,178 budget repre- pared for the fall. erty. The parking would be for tenants cial uses. Kathy Kigin, of 12 Preble St., sents a 4.04% increase over last year Bob Riley presented a review of and the general public as the facility was concerned about the additional which would result in a mil rate the Substance Abuse Counselor is expected to have one or more retail traffic creating a strain on neighboring increase of 8.38%, or $0.87. Chairman Prevention Program. It has a proac- businesses in addition to the bowling side streets and suggested traffic be Darryl Wright explained that 56% of tive approach and focuses on edu- alley. Overnight parking on Elm St. and steered onto Railroad Ave., which is the increase ($560,000) was for capital cating students to make good deci- Railroad Ave. would not be allowed. not residential, as an exit to Main St. improvements. At the request of the sions as well as giving them skills At the workshop, John and Amy Smith is currently waiting for Town Council, the Committee includ- and strategies for combating peer Leddy, residents of 2 Robie St., the conceptual plans “which will ed some capital improvement expens- pressure. Fourth and fifth-grade expressed their concern about chil- show how well this project will fit es in the operating budget, saving students will be added to the pro- dren walking along the street, school on our property.” bond referendum requests for large gram which is now centered on the projects. Additional funds were bud- middle school. geted for staffing needs, replacing The Committee voted (5-0) to Attn: Gorham Times Readers - Survey 2016 old textbooks, and new technol- approved changes in the medical ogy. The Committee made reduc- marijuana policy as mandated by the Please follow the link tions totaling $487,000. They will State, made minor changes in the https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/QGD5JYP take the budget to the Town Council policy on gifts from the public, and for approval on June 7, and the final eliminated the school awards policy to complete our very short survey so we can better serve budget will come before the voters on which was not needed. This has no you as we continue to bring the news to all of Gorham. June 14. The budget is posted on the effect on the awarding of awards. School Department’s website. They approved (5-0) hiring Jessica Earlier the meeting was enlivened Allen to teach English at GHS and by two teams of Gorham students Collette Anderson as Village School who demonstrated the style and cre- nurse. ativity that made them first place win- They voted unanimously on a ners at the state Odyssey of the Mind 2.5% salary increase for office staff, competitions last month. The teams to increase the cost of full-paid from Village School and GHS are eli- lunches by 25 cents, and to approve gible to compete in the World Finals the negotiated contract with the in late May. Gorham Teachers Association. School Notes The Robotics Team 172 ranked seventh out of 40 teams at the recent Maine District Cham- pionship in the qualifier matches. The top eight teams got to pick their two playoff allies; Team 172 chose the Gaelhawks of Shelton, CT (Team 230) and the robOTies of Old Town, ME (Team 5122). This alliance was one of the last four standing, making it all the way to the semifinals. They also won the Imagery Award for their synchronized pink-Viking look. The team qualified in the NE District Championship and will attend the World Championship in St. Louis, MO.
On April 1, GMS eighth-grader Evan Chambers represented the Gorham School District at the annual state competition of the National Geographic Society’s Geography Bee in Farmington amongst 100 of the best geography students in the state. Chambers performed well and enjoyed the experience.
North Yarmouth Academy Honor Roll for First Semester 2015-16: Grade 7 – Highest Honors - Nathan Cook of Gorham and Tellie Stamaris of Gorham
The GHS Alumni Association, which awards an annual scholarship to a graduating senior, has been in existence for over 130 years. Every graduate or attendee is eligible to become a lifetime member for a one-time fee of $10. If you are interested in becoming a member, or donating to the GHSAA Scholarship Fund, please send your name, address, email address, year of graduation and check (made payable to GHSAA) to Esther Felch Libby, 1021 Chad- bourne Road, Standish, Maine, 04084.
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Celebrating 20 Years as Your Community Newspaper | April 21, 2016 | [email protected] | Gorham Times | 7 SCHOOL GMS Jazz Band Wins Second Village Elementary Travels Place at Festival the World: School-Wide Interactive Geography
Photo credit Beth Orlando
The GMS Jazz Band recently competed in the Maine Music Middle School Jazz Festival and Competition where they tied for second place in Division 1.
Kim Mathieu a Gold Award plaque and a trophy. Music/band teacher at GMS Their score was 92, which is a supe- Photo credit DaraLyn McColl rior rating. All nine of the soloists The Gorham Middle School Jazz received 1s on their improvised Pictured are fifth-grade SAIL (Student Advanced in Learning) students in the Where in the Band traveled to Nokomis High solos. Bass player Mason Hawkes also World is Village School and Newspaper Team. Top row (left to right): Grace Johnson, Brooke School in Newport, Maine to com- received a trophy and was recognized Gerry, Peter Wu, Elizabeth Willette, Rylee Tenuta, and Trevin Macomber. Bottom row (left to pete in the Maine Middle School Jazz for outstanding musicianship. right): Patrick Cyr, Joseph Vetterline, Sam Larkin, Madeline Downey, Kevin Luo, Ella Bethany Festival and Competition last month. The Jazz Band members are: and Amelia Connor-McCoy. They competed amongst eight Rhythm: Colby Leavitt (missing), Nolan schools in Division 1: Falmouth, McCullough, Donovan Landry, and Madeline Downey Greely, Brunswick, Skowhegan, Megan Wentworth; Trumpets: Wesley Village School student Bonney Eagle, Gorham, Noble, and Brinegar, Pat Bishop, Emma Poitras, Westbrook. There are four divisions Bailey Wentworth, Sam D’Amico, At Village Elementary School, stu- in the state based on the number of Quentin Riiska, and Anya Mazaris- dents are helping students learn in a students in the school. Atkinson; Trombones and Baritone fun way that really gets the informa- The GMS Jazz Band tied for second Horn: Emily Paruk, MacKenna tion across – with a guessing game. place in the Division 1 State Middle Homa, Tabitha Chase (missing), Fifth-grade students videotape stu- School Jazz Festival. They received Molly Rathbun, Gabby LaBarge, dents giving educational clues about Lillith Price, Abby Ouellete, Phoebe a country for the week. If students Johnston, Zack Pierce (Baritone); and get it right, they get an eraser as a VILLAGE BUILDERS Saxophones: Alto – Sam Orlando, Kate prize. Students enjoy the fact that Full Service General Contractor Downey, Caitlyn Randall, Luke Adams, they get a prize, and teachers enjoy Repairs • Renovations • Additions Alexandra Light, Shannon Randall, seeing how students benefit from Ambrosia Moore; Tenor – Nate Goff, watching the clues about a country, Lizzy Blanchard, and Caroline Bishop; including: learning latitude and lon- and Bari – Anika Malia. gitude, languages that they speak, grades, and even early middle fun facts, and more. school. Some students are expect- The students giving the clues are ed to know about a country, so the What’s on GOCAT? all fifth graders from Village who videos help them learn if they are are on the newspaper team for the studying that one. school. Each day, the classrooms The countries have ranged from watch the videos posted for the Iran to Madagascar to Cuba. The week. The students chosen for the facts are found by the students, but week, videotape in front of the giant they can’t be too hard because even map in the halls. Mentor DaraLyn the kindergarteners love it. Daniel W. Grant, P.E. McColl loads it onto the blog on the Fifth graders are placing video school website where teachers can clues as well as additional infor- Owner Visit the Stay in Touch section of mation that they research on the www.gorham-me.org for program click on the videos so their students 21 New Portland Rd. guides for Gorham Government Education can view them. random country the students vote Gorham, ME 04038 TV (Channel 2 on Time Warner Cable) Why do students love having to guess on. They’re trying to change what and Public Access (Channel 3 on Time the country? There seems to be two students know about the world at PH 207-839-6072 Warner Cable). Live streaming and video main reasons: first, they love the fact Village Elementary School. [email protected] on demand is available. that it is a game, and some littler stu- Additionally, vice principal Jodi dents don’t even know they are learn- Mezzanotte asked the fifth-grade ing. Second, it is not forced, so students SAIL members who currently write tend to like it a lot more than if they and lay out the school newspaper/ were studying about the country. letter to create video clues. It’s all a Because it’s a game, students buzz at Village. Pottery 20% OFF pay attention more, and will learn Visit the link (blog) at http:// (through April 30) some things that most kids don’t whereintheworldisvillageschool. learn about countries until older blogspot.com/.
Share Your School News with Us! Mon.–Sat 10–5 • 42 Main Street, Gorham Email: [email protected] [email protected] 839-BOOK(2665) Submission Deadline for our next issue is: April 27th
8 | Gorham Times | [email protected] | April 21, 2016 | Celebrating 20 Years as Your Community Newspaper Honoring Autism Awareness Month
Photo credit LuAnne Amell
In recognition of Autism Awareness Month in April, Gorham Middle School students decorat- ed puzzle pieces with words and pictures of things that make them feel good about them- selves. The message above the puzzle pictured reads “You are part of a puzzle in someone’s life. You may never know where you fit but someone’s life may be incomplete without you in it.” The puzzle is on display in the allied arts wing of GMS. Jump Roping for a Cause
Photo credit Frank DeFrancesco
Gorham’s elementary schools recently participated in the American Heart Association’s Jump Rope Have a Heart fundraiser. Pictured are Great Falls students who raised $50 or more. The three schools raised a combined total of $5,937 to donate to the American Heart Association.
Kids Helping Kids
Photo credit Veronica Bretton
Four eighth-grade Gorham boys participated in this year’s St. Baldrick’s head shaving event held on March 9 at the Gorham Recreation Center. Together, the boys raised over $3,000 for childhood cancer research. Melissa Johnson Feeney of Buster’s Barber Shop in Gorham, shaved their heads. Pictured (left to right) are: Ryan Reno and Noah Jalbert, who have partici- pated for the past five years, Nicholas Batchelder, who has shaved his head for the past four years; and Jordan Bretton, who has been a part of the event for the past seven years.
Celebrating 20 Years as Your Community Newspaper | April 21, 2016 | [email protected] | Gorham Times | 9 Community Business Directory FUNERAL HOME PROPERTY SERVICES PAINTING
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HEALTH & WELLNESS DENTISTS Albert Frick Associates, Inc. André Achenbach, O.D. Alan J. Mathieu, O.D. Environmental Consultants www.albertfrick.com 207-839-5563 Examination & Treatment of the Eyes Lasik Co-Management Septic system designs Eyeglasses for Every Budget & inspections Complete Contact Lens Service Environmental permitting 347D Main Street, Gorham, ME 839-2638 Wetlands and soils mapping (Beside Community Pharmacy) 95A County Road, Gorham, ME [email protected] maineoptometry.com
Now Hiring Laborers with CDL Mark D. Kaplan Screened Loam Licensed Denturist Audiology Services and Hearing Aids & Reclaim Specializing in Dentures, Shannon Phinney Dowdle, Audiologist Repairs and Relines Delivered or Loaded Making home visits Denture home care Gorham, Maine 347 Main St., Suite 1A • Gorham, Maine 04038 with a gentle and 839-7955 207-839-2008 personalized touch. 839-8400 • www.villagehearing.com www.shawearthworks.com [email protected] | www.americandenturist.com
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10 | Gorham Times | [email protected] | April 21, 2016 | Celebrating 20 Years as Your Community Newspaper SPORTS In the Zone Gorham Boys’ Hockey and Free Throw Champ: Jack Luciano of Gorham won the Knights of Columbus State Free Throw contest held on March 12 in Old Special Olympic Maine Town. Jack won the “Age 9” boys competi- tion by sinking 19 out of 25 free throws. Jack is pictured with Mike Chabot (right) Athletes Come Together and Anthony Alfiero (left) of the Gorham council 10221. Lisa Bird Special Olympics Maine Mayhem on the Gridiron: The Maine May- hem, Maine’s Women’s Football Team, won Members of the Gorham Ice Hockey their first game ever in New York. The all- Boys Varsity and JV team, as well as three players from the Middle School female team defeated the New York Knock- team, came together for a post season out by a score of 24-6. Five players from evening of fun with Special Olympic Courtesy of Knights of Columbus the team along with the head coach are Maine (SOME) athletes. Gorham residents including Alicia Jeffords, Although the season had come to right, who is also very involved in coaching an end, the players were excited about Gorham youth football. A roster of the team the opportunity to get together for a Photo courtesy of Lisa Bird can be found at https://mainemayhemfoot- great cause. Twenty-six players met ball.com/2016-roster/. The team will take on up at the YMCA at Pineland Farms in GHS hockey players relax with the Special the Connecticut Hawks on April 23 at 6 p.m. New Gloucester to play traditional floor Olympians after a rewarding game. at Memorial Stadium in Portland. hockey with several Special Olympic Maine athletes. GHS Varsity Goalie Noah Bird stated SOME athletes showed some great skill Player to Watch: The Portland Press Herald “My brother Jonah and I have been and had some really powerful shots. named GHS senior Sam Kilborn one of volunteering for Special Olympics for as Later in the evening came the high- 25 baseball players to watch this spring. long as I can remember so we already light for everyone…Special Olympic Kilborn, a pitcher, was 4-2 with a 1.91 ERA knew it would be a rewarding experi- Maine athletes versus Gorham Hockey. last year after missing his sophomore year ence. It was great to be able to share This was a fast-paced game with some due to a knee injury. something like this with my teammates.” great passing and goals. The evening started with the play- Willy Baxter concluded, “The boys ers and SOME athletes breaking the had a great time getting to meet and Share Your Sports News with Us! ice by shooting a few hoops. Things play with the athletes. We would be got underway with everyone participat- glad to be invited back again.” [email protected] ing in warm ups and drills. Game time By the end of the evening, friend- Submission Deadline for our came and the athletes and hockey play- ships were made, hugs and high fives next issue is: April 27th ers were divided into two teams. GHS were passed around, and everyone left Varsity Hockey Captain Willy Baxter excited and looking forward to next could be heard from the bench firing up Courtesy of Maine Mayhem time. “It was a great experience and a his new floor hockey teammates. The lot of fun,” said GHS player Lucas Roop.
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Celebrating 20 Years as Your Community Newspaper | April 21, 2016 | [email protected] | Gorham Times | 11 Real Estate Professionals
UNDER UNDER CONTRACT SOLD CONTRACT
Julie Chandler Paul Farley
GORHAM $177,500 - Perfect starter WESTBROOK $315,000 - 3000sqft 10 PREBLE STREET $135,000 - GORHAM $338,500 - Desirable Fort home. Offers 2BR, 1ba, 1346sqft, wood office building on RT302 at Prides Intown 2 unit in need of complete rehab. Hill Farms! Handcrafted cabinets, pine stove, detached garage/barn & terrific Corner w/15,600 avg daily traffic. Many 4219 sqft on 3 flrs. Public water/sewer floors throughout & classic trim details. yard space for gardens or relaxing! opportunities. & nat gas. 3BR/2.5BA w/2276sqft of living space.
Becky Gallant Mike Griffin NEW LISTING SOLD
Jane Mason Jeff Mason SOUTH PORTLAND $112,500 - SEBAGO LAKE $550,000 - GORHAM $309,900 – 4BR, 2ba w/2- 164 STATE ST $268,900 – Desir- 1.22ac city lot. Convenient location, public 2BR/1.5ba year round waterfront home car & 1792sqft. LR w/FP, 1st flr laundry able flr plan w/kitchen open to DR & a water/sewer & natural gas at street. Over- built in 2013. Offering a custom kitchen, & BR. Offers HW & tile flooring & great spacious front LR. 1st flr finished w/tile & looks trainyard. wood/tile flrs, stone FP, 1-car, dock & location. HW. Close to Village. patios.
NEW BACK ON SOLD LISTING MARKET
Peter Mason Mike Rand
Realtors® Helping You Buy or Sell 8 JOSEPH DRIVE $309,900 - GORHAM $239,900 - Just built! GORHAM - Ideal location on the STANDISH $185,000 - One level Real Estate! 1414sqft of 1 flr living! HW flrs, master 2BR/1bath home w/lower level for add’l liv- Westbrook side of Gorham! 1630sqft living w/wood floors, finished basement, suite w/bath & a huge daylight bsmt. ing space. Granite counters HW/tile floors, 3BR, 1.5 ba cape w/ updated kitchen, oversized 2-car, metal roof and spacious Immaculate condition! 1-car & rear deck. bathrooms & flooring. backyard. Well maintained.
39 Main Street www.pogorealty.com Gorham (207) 839-3300
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12 | Gorham Times | [email protected] | April 21, 2016 | Celebrating 20 Years as Your Community Newspaper COMMUNITY DEAN’S LIST ON-GOING EVENTS
Madeleine Hamblen (GHS ’14), Gettysburg College, Organization and Management Studies. The Gorham Food Pantry, located at 299-B Main St. (parking lot of St. Anne’s Catholic Church) is open every Thursday morning from 9 -11 a.m. and the 2nd and 4th Wednesday OF INTEREST of every month from 6 – 7 p.m. Free for Gorham residents in need. FMI, 222-4351 or visit www.gorhamfoodpantry.org. Aiden Warren-Vanhorn, a sixth-grader at Gorham Middle School, appears in Bonfire The Lakes Region Senior Center, located at the Little Falls Activity Center, 40 Acorn Street in Films, “Suffer the Little Children,” a short story Gorham is open Monday – Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Join them daily for coffee, tea and by Stephen King. The short follows the decline socializing. On-Going daily activities include Mahjong on Mondays - beginners welcome. of an aging teacher who believes her students FMI, Diane 892-9529; Tuesday crafts and card games. FMI, Avis 892-0298; The Memoir are being taken over by something evil. The Writing Group meets the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month. FMI, David 892-5604; Maine premiere will be shown during the Thursday Table Games at 10 a.m. and Friday Art Workshop at 9 a.m. FMI, 892-0299. Emerge Film Festival on Saturday, Apr. 30 at 10 a.m. at the Franco Center Heritage Hall, 46 The Gorham Medical Closet located at the Municipal Center, 75 South St., is free and avail- Cedar Street, Lewiston. able to Gorham residents in need of portable wheelchairs, hospital beds, shower seats, com- modes, walkers, canes and more. FMI, call 839-4579, 839-3630, 839-2484 or 839-3859. Brendan Rielly will be speaking at the North Gorham Public Library, 2 Standish Neck Road, USM NOTES Gorham on Thursday, Apr. 21 at 7 p.m. “An Photo credit Trisha Warren-Vanhorn Unbeaten Man” is Rielly’s first thriller. The event The USM Art Department celebrates the exhibits of graduating BFA and BA students Apr 12 – is free and open to all. FMI, www.north-gorham.lib.me.us May 1 at the USM Art Gallery, 37 College Ave, Gorham. FMI, 780-5008.
A Two-Day Rummage and Perennial Sale will be held at the Cressey Road United Methodist Church A Musical Theater Master Class will be held on Friday, Apr. 22 from 1 – 4:30 p.m. at in Gorham on Friday, Apr. 29 from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. and on Saturday, Apr. 30 from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Corthell Concert Hall, Gorham campus. Free and open to public. FMI, 780-5555. Fill a grocery bag for $1 on Saturday at 11 a.m. One of the BEST RECYCLING events around. USM Theatre Department presents the play “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?” Apr. 22 – May 1 at Russell Hall, Gorham campus. FMI, 780-5151. First Parish Congregational Church in Gorham will be holding a Spring Extravaganza and Rummage Sale on Saturday, April 30 from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Plant sale, snacks, baked good, activities for kids USM School of Music presents the Italian opera “The Coronation of Poppea,” Saturday, Apr. and more! FMI, 839-6751. 30 at 2 p.m. Corthell Concert Hall, Gorham campus. $8/$5. FMI, 780-5555.
A Community Dinner featuring Baked Ham, Mac & Cheese, salads and dessert will be served on The USM School of Music presents the USM Youth Ensembles two choral groups in their Monday, Apr. 25 in Fellowship Hall of the First Parish Congregational Church, Gorham at 5:30 spring concert on Thursday, May 5 at 7 p.m. at Corthell Concert Hall, Gorham campus. p.m. Free meal and great fellowship. All are welcome! This last dinner until fall is sponsored by the Donations accepted. FMI, 780-5555. Gorham Ecumenical Council.
A Bean Supper will be held at the White Rock Community Club, 34 Wilson Road, Gorham, on Saturday, May 7 from 4:30 - 6 p.m. $8/$4 under 12.
The National Park Service has awarded Gorham resident Douglas Wood, a fine art photographer that works primarily in black and white, with an Artist in Residence opportunity through Acadia National Park. The Schoodic Peninsula area of Acadia will serve as home base, but Douglas will have access to all areas of the park during his August residency.
The North Gorham Writers’ Group will read their original poetry and prose during their 18th Annual Reading on Tuesday, Apr. 26 at 7 p.m. Participants include Gorham residents Leanne Cooper, Delina Eisenhauer, John Labrecque, Mary Snell, and Linda Strout. The event will be held in the Cairn Community Room of the United Church of Christ, North Gorham, 4 Standish Neck Road, Gorham. Refreshments served. FMI, Mary Snell 892-9831.
A Book Discussion Group at North Gorham Public Library, 2 Standish Neck Road will be held on Monday, Apr 25 at 10 a.m. All are welcome to join in the discussion of “The Love Song of Miss Queenie Hennessy” by Rachel Joyce. FMI, 892-2575.
The Gorham Garden Club will meet on Tuesday, Apr. 26 at 7 p.m. at the First Parish Church in Gorham. The program will be: “New, Tried and True Plants and Those Highly Recommended that Don’t Work,” presented by Bill Kenney of Allen, Sterling & Lothrop. The public is welcome. FMI, 839-3878.
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Celebrating 20 Years as Your Community Newspaper | April 21, 2016 | [email protected] | Gorham Times | 13 Captain of the Gorham Recreation Department
Martin Gagnon Sports Editor
In sports, most teams have a cap- tain. The effective captain provides leadership, passion, and guidance to his or her teammates. At the Gorham Recreation Department, one person has been at the helm for the past 25 years as the program has thrived and pro- vided fun and healthy activities for hun- dreds. Gorham Recreation Department Director, Cindy Hazelton, was recently honored for 25 years of service. The Photo credit Gorham Rec. Dept. Gorham Times had some time to chat with Hazelton about how it all began Cindy Hazelton was recently recognized by and the obvious enjoyment she still David Cole for serving 25 years as Gorham gets from coming to the office. Recreation Department Director. “At the time when the position for Recreation Director in Gorham was advertised, I was the Recreation team to ever qualify for the Maine Director for the Town of Sanford,” she Principals Association, Eastern Class D said. Hazelton applied for the posi- Maine basketball playoff at the Bangor tion, interviewed, accepted the job and Auditorium against East Grand High was named Director of the Gorham School of Danforth.” When I asked her Recreation Department in March of how the team did, she said they got 1991. Twenty-five years later, she is still “walloped pretty bad, but we played on the team captain. the Bangor Auditorium floor!” I asked Hazelton if she was an ath- Growing up in the rural community lete in her hometown of Easton, Maine. of Easton, Hazelton said she has not With a smile she told me she was in found “country kids any different from the top 20 of her high school graduat- Gorham kids. Kids just want to play and ing class out of class of 19. With fond- have fun with their friends. The only dif- ness, she said that “athletics in Easton, ference is the opportunities.” Hazelton Maine for girls when I was a student recalled using Robin Hood baking included two activities: basketball and flour to mark the base paths for a Little cheerleading. I played basketball and our team was actually the first girls’ Continued on Page 15
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14 | Gorham Times | [email protected] | April 21, 2016 | Celebrating 20 Years as Your Community Newspaper Courtesy of the Gorham Police Department CLASSIFIEDS
MUSIC LESSONS VOICE AND PIANO lessons at my Gorham studio. BA in Music Ed. Call Paul 281-3557. [email protected]. SERVICES INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR PAINTING. Specializing in older homes. Low rates, quality work. DON’T SMOKE, IT’S NO JOKE Free estimates. Call Dave Hall, 929-4469. Recommended by David Willis. George St. caller got into a yelling match with his brother-in-law over smoking inside his mother’s house. Caller left and peace was restored. LITERACY TUTORING for K-8. Certified Literacy Specialist with Orton-Gillingham dyslexia training. Meet your spring benchmarks! Call Sarah 207-200-5664 or emailsarahrtutor@ Person charged with OUI after hitting a tele- fine and did not want a ride. He declined to say gmail.com, www.magicmomentstutoring.com phone pole near Public Works on Huston Road. why he was walking or where he was going. Officer advised Noble’s Way man to talk to his Man was stopped on Main St. and charged grandson and set some house rules. with OUI and violating conditions of release. CALENDAR Suspicious persons on Gray Road were Officer stopped male subject walking west- THURSDAY, APR 21 employees of a cleaning service. bound on Brandy Brook Hill. Man had an out- • Book Group Meeting, Baxter Library, 10 a.m., “Kisses from Katie: A Story of Relentless standing warrant for failure to appear. Love and Redemption” by Katie Davis and Beth Clark. Officer responded to report of a domestic • Local author Brendan Rielly, North Gorham Public Library, 2 Standish Neck Road, Gorham, assault on Tink Drive. Officer talked to suspicious person on the pole 7 p.m. “An Unbeaten Man” is Rielly’s first thriller. Free and open to all. line on Main St. Man had been at a bar that Rust Road caller advised police he was going night and met a lady. Because he stays with • Wormmainea, Baxter Library, 1 p.m. How worms eat our garbage. to be breaking up with his girlfriend and that friends he could not bring her to where he there could be trouble when he told her. Caller was living. Woman was in back seat of truck FRIDAY, APR 22 was advised to have a third party present or to covered by a blanket. Man did not know what • Drop in to Baxter Library to celebrate Earth Day, anywhere between 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. call the police if there was any trouble. her name was. Man asked her and she gave Crafts and a planting activity. Libby Road man received a call from someone him her name. They had not been drinking and MONDAY, APR 25 interested in renting after seeing it advertised on were asked to move along. • Community Dinner, First Parish Congregational Church, Gorham, 5:30 p.m. Free meal and Roomster website. Roomster was contacted Sebago Lake Road caller reported an animal fellowship. Baked Ham, Mac & Cheese. All are welcome! about the false advertisement and they took it problem. The rat was terminated with a shovel. down. • Gorham Republican Committee meeting, 6:30 p.m. All registered Republicans are welcome. Ossipee Trail caller reported a goose in the FMI, call 415-2673. Caller reported a car “all over the road” driving road. north on Mosher Road. Driver was charged TUESDAY, APR 26 with OUI. Caller was concerned about a friend on Tink • North Gorham Writers’ Group Annual Reading, 7 p.m., United Church of Christ, North Drive as she was having ongoing issues with Gorham, 4 Standish Neck Road, Gorham. Woman reported her one year old child was her soon to be ex-boyfriend. Caller was advised • Gorham Garden Club Meeting, 7 p.m., First Parish Congregational Church, Gorham. locked in her vehicle. Two officers on duty to call if he went to residence and caused a • Pre-School Story Time, 3 – 5 years, Baxter Library, 9:30 a.m. were tied up but an officer on his way home problem. from work heard the call and went to Scroggie WEDNESDAY, APR 27 Way to unlock the vehicle. Ice flew off a tractor trailer driving southbound and shattered the windshield of a car driving • Town of Gorham Senior Lunch Program, St. Anne’s Church, Gorham. Opens at 11 a.m. Officer stopped to talk to a man walking in the northbound. Lunch served promptly at 12 p.m. $4. FMI, 839-4857. road on Brandy Brook Hill. Man said he was THURSDAY, APR 28 • Baby and Me, ages birth – 18 mos., 9:30 a.m., Baxter Library. Captain of the Gorham Rec Dept. Continued from Page 14 • Toddler Time, ages 18 – 36 mos., 10 a.m., Baxter Library. • Sewing Group, 7 years and older, 2:30 – 4:30 p.m., Baxter Library. League baseball game in Easton when a nature center on the Potomac River. • More than a Rap Sheet Closing Event, 6:30 p.m., Baxter Library. she was supervising Easton Recreation. The Gorham Recreation Department “I went home, got my mother’s bag of provides opportunities for all ages to FRIDAY, APR 29 flour, our dustpan, and a ball of yarn play sports and provides social oppor- • Two-Day Rummage and Perennial Sale, Cressey Road United Methodist Church, 9 a.m. – and went and lined the field. We played tunities such as mystery lunches, com- 2 p.m. the game and nobody noticed the dif- munity gardening, and yoga and sum- ference until the next couple of days mer concerts. However, the programs it • Benefit Dance at Spire 29 on the Square, Fanconi Anemia Foundation, 6 - 9 p.m. when all the birds were on the field eat- provides serve more than just individual ing little wet flour balls.” needs. “Community recreation oppor- SATURDAY, APR 30 Combining country creativity and tunities in a town like Gorham create • Two-Day Rummage and Perennial Sale, Cressey Road United Methodist Church, 9 a.m. – academic studies, Hazelton has been a the foundation for people to people 1 p.m. Fill a grocery bag for $1 at 11 a.m. leader in the field. After working one interaction. We have often said that • Spring Extravaganza and Rummage Sale, First Parish Congregational Church, 9 a.m. – summer at Camp Jordan in Bangor, where else are you going to get the 2 p.m. Plant sale, snacks, baked good, activities for kids and more. FMI, 839-6751. Hazelton retuned to the University of chance to meet the parents of the kids Maine at Presque Isle and changed that your child will be playing with for TUESDAY, MAY 3 her major from History to Recreation the next 10 to 12 years? For those with- • Annual Meeting, North Gorham Cemetery Association, 7 p.m., Cairns Room, UCC at and Leisure Services. She completed out kids, we provide opportunities to North Gorham. her senior year internship working meet other like-minded neighbors and • Gorham House Itsy Bitsy Store, 1:30 - 3:30 p.m., GH lobby. FMI, 839-5757. for the Fairfax County Park Authority enjoy learning a new skill or tying a new in Annandale, Virginia within the dish in our cooking classes.” • Gorham Cancer Prayer and Support Group, 6 p.m., Cressey Road United Methodist Washington D.C. beltway. As an intern, Hazelton, the team captain, often Church. All are welcome. FMI, 321-1390 or 839-3111. Hazelton worked at a golf course, a pro- refers to her staff as Team Gorham. • Pre-School Story Time, 3 – 5 years, Baxter Library, 9:30 a.m. fessional ice hockey arena, a community Clearly, she brings out the best of center big enough to train secret service those who are fortunate enough to WEDNESDAY, MAY 4 agents training to protect dignitaries at work by her side. Hazelton is a mentor • Story Time, birth – 3 yrs., 10 – 10:30 a.m., North Gorham Public Library. the 1984 Olympics in Los Angeles, and to those around her and sees leader- • Town of Gorham Senior Lunch Program, St. Anne’s Church, Gorham. Opens at 11 a.m. ship as a powerful force and that is Lunch served promptly at 12 p.m. $4. FMI, 839-4857. how she sees her department in the • Early Release for grades K – 12. MOVING SALE! community. “Every day we adjust and Saturday, April 23 create and empower. That’s why we do THURSDAY, MAY 5 9 am - 5 pm what we do.” • Baby and Me, ages birth – 18 mos., 9:30 a.m., Baxter Library. 77 Atkinson Rd, Buxton Thankfully, Cindy Hazelton is creat- Furniture, furnishings, books, • Toddler Time, ages 18 – 36 mos., 10 a.m., Baxter Library. tools & more... ing those memories and experiences for all those in Gorham. • Sewing Group, 7 years and older, 2:30 – 4:30 p.m., Baxter Library.
Baxter Memorial Library, 71 South St. Part-time Office Assistant position available, Gorham Law Cressey Road United Methodist Church, 81 Cressey Rd. Firm, 10 hrs plus. Hours are flexible & negotiable. Please North Gorham Public Library, 2 Standish Neck Rd. send resumes to Berry Law P.A. at: [email protected] St. Anne’s Church, 299 Main St.
Celebrating 20 Years as Your Community Newspaper | April 21, 2016 | [email protected] | Gorham Times | 15 Doshu Allan Viernes Karate Camp sign ups Shihan Jennifer Viernes 821 Main St., Westbrook Day Camp - July 5-8/ 11-15 207.854.9408 Sleepover Camp Aug.4-8
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16 | Gorham Times | [email protected] | April 21, 2016 | Celebrating 20 Years as Your Community Newspaper