Franklin

Solution sought for former Forster Mill

Ann Bryant, Staff Writer — Wed, 22 May 2013 01:10:00 +0000

WILTON — The owner of the former Forster Mill on Depot Street has recently hired a new representative to help seek a solution for demolition or deconstruction of the mill. Owner Adam Mack, operating under the company name of Wilton Recycling LLC, has hired Dale Holman to help look fo...

Wilton Group hosts candidate meet and greet tonight

Ann Bryant, Staff Writer — Tue, 21 May 2013 23:20:30 +0000

WILTON — When voters head for the polls June 4, they'll choose selectmen and School Board directors. They'll also decide whether the town should adopt four new ordinances. The Wilton Group offered a chance for residents to learn more about the ordinances last week and will offer resi...

Second suspect charged in Tranten's Too armed robbery

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Tue, 21 May 2013 22:30:54 +0000

FARMINGTON — A Vassalboro man was charged Monday on a count of felony robbery in connection to an armed robbery at Trantens Too on June 18, 2012, in Kingfield. He is the second man charged in the case. Matthew Santamore, 22, is accused of driving the getaway vehicle during the robber...

Livermore Falls board signs union contracts

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Tue, 21 May 2013 22:00:38 +0000

LIVERMORE FALLS — Selectmen voted Monday to accept and sign two three-year contracts with the unions that represent the Police Department, the Public Works Department and sewer treatment plant workers, Town Manager Kristal Flagg said Tuesday. Union workers have been operating under c...

Sandy River Recycling holds compost sale

Tue, 21 May 2013 21:30:39 +0000

FARMINGTON — The second annual compost sale at Sandy River Recycling Association’s facility off the Dump Road will be held from 7 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, May 24 and 25. What doesn’t sell on those two days will be available the following week until it is ...

Jay tears down house to improve intersection

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Tue, 21 May 2013 20:39:00 +0000

JAY — Highway workers Tuesday took down the house at the corner of Route 133 and Hyde Road to make way for intersection improvements. A public hearing on the plan was held Monday. The town bought the vacant home, large barn and 3 or 4 acres on April 30 for $36,970.44. The money came ...

This week's agenda

Tue, 21 May 2013 04:00:08 +0000

Tuesday Salem Township: SAD 58 Board of Directors, 6:30 p.m., Mt. Abram High School Wilton: Selectmen, 7 p.m., Town Office Wednesday Jay: Jay Village Water District Board of Trustees, 6 p.m., Town Office Thursday Livermore Falls; RSU 73 Board of Directors...

Hearing set on proposal to make Franklin County jail full-service

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Tue, 21 May 2013 04:00:00 +0000

FARMINGTON — The Maine Board of Corrections will hold a public hearing June 12 on a proposal for the Franklin County Detention Center to become a full-service jail. It currently is a 72-hour holding facility. The hearing will be held at 4 p.m. in the North Dining Hall at the Universi...

Wilton man charged with sledgehammer assault

Ann Bryant, Staff Writer — Tue, 21 May 2013 04:00:00 +0000

WILTON — Police say a Wilton man was arrested on a charge of aggravated domestic violence assault Sunday after two adult family members were hit with a six-pound sledgehammer. James Mathers, 53, was staying on Chandler Street, preparing to move to East Dixfield, when police were call...

County budget process discussed during public hearing

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Tue, 21 May 2013 02:20:00 +0000

FARMINGTON — A Franklin County budget panel was asked Monday night how people will know what the panel, as a group, is thinking about each account and grant program request in a proposed $5.5 million, 2013-14 spending package. John Calloway, chairman of the Franklin County Budget Adv...

Kingfield selectmen forming committee to study leaving SAD 58

Valerie Tucker, Special to the Sun Journal — Tue, 21 May 2013 02:15:00 +0000

KINGFIELD — Selectmen agreed to seek volunteers to discuss the town’s future in SAD 58. Recently, the town of Eustis formed a stand-alone district, leaving Philips, Avon, Strong, and Kingfield as members. At the Monday night meeting, Selectman Mervin Wilson urged se...

Farmington farmer, town volunteer remembered

Ann Bryant, Staff Writer — Tue, 21 May 2013 00:15:00 +0000

FARMINGTON — Lawrence Yeaton was remembered Monday by family and friends as a farmer, a businessman, a civic-minded citizen and as someone always willing to share a good story or joke. Yeaton, 82, died Sunday, ending his battle with various health issues since 1993. "His spiri...

Franklin County Arrest Log

Tue, 21 May 2013 00:15:00 +0000

FARMINGTON — The following arrests were recently logged at Franklin County Detention Center: Joann Demorro, 48, New Sharon, theft by unauthorized taking or transfer, May 15, $3,000 unsecured bail, Farmington Police Department. Mark McCrillis, 30, Farmington, warrant unpaid fin...

Sneeze causes two-car crash in Farmington

Ann Bryant, Staff Writer — Mon, 20 May 2013 23:25:00 +0000

FARMINGTON — A driver's sneeze resulted in her car crossing the centerline and striking a car on Routes 2 and 4 near the Wilton town line Monday morning, according to Farmington police officer Darin Gilbert. Mykayla Mitchell, 19, of Livermore Falls complained of neck pain and was tra...

UMF starts geothermal well project

Ann Bryant, Staff Writer — Mon, 20 May 2013 18:47:00 +0000

FARMINGTON — When Ben Pratt said a geothermal project at the University of Maine at Farmington would begin the day after graduation, he meant it. Pratt, director of facilities management at UMF, previously told town planners and selectmen that the project would begin after the Mary 1...

Livermore Falls-Jay parade to honor 60th Korean War anniversary

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Mon, 20 May 2013 17:24:00 +0000

JAY/LIVERMORE FALLS — The theme for this year’s Memorial Day Parade is to honor and remember the 60th anniversary of the Korean War. The parade marshal will be decorated Korean War veteran Gerard Gilbert of Jay. He received a number of medals during his service in the U.S. Army...

Fishing supplies, chain saw stolen from Chain of Ponds camp

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Mon, 20 May 2013 15:15:00 +0000

CHAIN OF PONDS TOWNSHIP — A Franklin County deputy is investigating a break-in at outbuildings at a camp off Route 27. Cpl. Ken Charles investigated Sunday when the camp owner discovered two outbuildings broken into, Sheriff Scott Nichols Sr. said Monday. Some fishing supplies...

Man injured when motorcycle hit stopped car in New Sharon

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Mon, 20 May 2013 14:54:00 +0000

NEW SHARON — A Dixfield man received minor injuries when the motorcycle he was driving ran into the back of a car on Route 2, Franklin County Lt. David Rackliffe said Monday. Keith Langervin, 22, was reported to have been thrown over the car by the force of the impact late Friday aft...

UMF senior looks at domestic violence among Maine's veterans

Ann Bryant, Staff Writer — Sun, 19 May 2013 22:40:09 +0000

FARMINGTON — The challenge of domestic violence is an ongoing issue of concern for the state. It's also one that affects veterans, according to Dovey Balsam of Industry, who spent a year researching and proposing ways to help veterans and thei...

Reporter's Notebook

Staff Report — Sun, 19 May 2013 21:40:10 +0000

Sen. King shows his appreciation for police Before touring the sites of the three recent downtown fires on Friday, U.S. Sen. Angus King stopped by the Lewiston police station in a nod to National Police Appreciation Week. "Like most citizens, you go through life, yo...

Free ATV course offered at Jay

Sun, 19 May 2013 21:40:10 +0000

JAY — The Police Department will sponsor a free all-terrain vehicle safety course Saturday, June 22, at the Spruce Mountain Middle School cafeteria. The course will begin at 8 a.m. and end at 4 p.m. It will be taught by Cpl. Jeff Fournier and Detective Richard Caton IV, state-certifi...

District receives grant to increase school safety

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Sun, 19 May 2013 21:40:10 +0000

FARMINGTON — All RSU 9 schools will have large numbers on exterior doors to help emergency responders identify which one to use. The Mallett and Mt. Blue High Schools already are labeled. David Leavitt, director of the district's support services, received a $2,500 grant from ...

Today's agenda

Sun, 19 May 2013 21:40:10 +0000

Franklin Fayette: Public hearing on annual town meeting warrant articles, 7 p.m., Fayette Central School Gymnasium New Vineyard: Selectmen, 6 p.m., Town Office Oxford Hills Bethel: Airport Authority, 6 p.m., Town Office Bethel: Selectmen, 7 p.m., Town Office...

New dispatch center moving forward

Donna M. Perry, Sun Journal — Sun, 19 May 2013 21:40:10 +0000

Franklin County dispatcher Stan Wheeler, right, explains to Franklin County Commissioner Clyde Barker of Strong, left, and county Emergency Management Agency Deputy Director Amanda Simoneau on Thursday that a television will be mounted in the corner of the dispatch area at the new Franklin County...

Jamie Beth Shible scholarship awarded to Mt. Blue High School cheerleaders

Ann Bryant, Staff Writer — Sun, 19 May 2013 21:30:06 +0000

FARMINGTON — The Jamie Beth Shible Memorial Scholarship Award was presented to Mt. Blue High School senior cheerleaders Laura Dunham and Macey Smith on Friday by Stephen and Julie Shible. The presentation was held beside a crab apple tree and plaque that were given in memory of Jaime...

4-H Horse Club's annual manure sale attracts many customers

Sat, 18 May 2013 04:00:00 +0000

Giddy-Up & Go 4-H Horse Club members shovel manure into bags for customers at Rocky and Ken Decker's Genesis Farm in Farmington on Saturday. At center from left, the Deckers' son, Chris, 15, shovels manure into a bag held by Madeleine Guerrette, 12. The club uses the manure sale as a fundrais...

UMF graduates 456 in outdoor ceremony

Terry Karkos, Staff Writer — Sat, 18 May 2013 04:00:00 +0000

University of Maine at Farmington Class of 2013 marshals Jennifer R. Caron, left, and Benjamin D. Dunbar lead graduates down High Street during Saturday morning's commencement ceremony.

SAD 58 delays budget decisions until state numbers finalized

Valerie Tucker, Special to the Sun Journal — Sat, 18 May 2013 00:40:13 +0000

SALEM TOWNSHIP — SAD 58 directors put final budget decisions on hold this week until state-level financial decisions are announced. The Maine Department of Education's 2013-14 revenue sources are not finalized, and even the announced revenue figures can change rapidly, Superintendent...

Students pack truck for food pantry

Donna M. Perry/Sun Journal — Fri, 17 May 2013 23:40:09 +0000

Kindergartner Leah Dill, second from left, hands food items Friday to Ross McCormick, left, a member of the United Methodist Church in New Sharon as fellow students at the Cape Cod Hill School in New Sharon wait to do the same. Bob Peary, a member of the church and a duty monitor at the school, o...

Franklin deputies to enforce seat belt law

Fri, 17 May 2013 17:39:00 +0000

FARMINGTON — The Franklin County Sheriff's Department will be conducting dedicated traffic enforcement details with an emphasis on seat belt enforcement over the next several weeks as part of a national “Click it or Ticket” safety campaign. Deputies will be working specia...

Androscoggin River history to be featured

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Fri, 17 May 2013 16:43:00 +0000

LIVERMORE FALLS — The downtown will light up Friday, May 24, with the annual History Night and Cruise-in. People will have a chance to learn about the history of the Androscoggin River, which is the theme of this year's event. It will take place from 4 to 8 p.m. “...

Communications tower goes up

Fri, 17 May 2013 00:25:00 +0000

A crane from W.H. Green & Sons of Augusta begins to maneuver a 90-foot communications tower at the new Franklin County Dispatch Center in Farmington on Thursday.

Area churches honor Laflin with Salt and Light Award

Ann Bryant, Staff Writer — Fri, 17 May 2013 00:15:00 +0000

FARMINGTON — The Farmington Area Ecumenical Ministry honored Lisa Park Laflin on Thursday with its 2013 Salt and Light Award. The award was given during FAEM's annual meeting at Trinity United Methodist Church. Laflin, director of the United Way of the Tri-Va...

Board approves demolition of home damaged by black mold

Ann Bryant, Staff Writer — Fri, 17 May 2013 00:00:11 +0000

FARMINGTON — Selectmen unanimously agreed Tuesday to allow the town's Code Enforcement Officer to pursue demolition of a home extensively damaged by black mold. The board held a hearing to determine if the structure a...

RSU 9 to obtain insurance policy for laptops

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Thu, 16 May 2013 20:33:00 +0000

FARMINGTON — RSU 9 is changing to a commercial insurance policy to cover damage to student laptop computers at the start of the new school year. Currently the district provides a self-insured type of coverage that parents pay a premium for and a deductible when damage occurs. ...

Bail set for two men accused of breaking into Wilton store

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Thu, 16 May 2013 20:23:00 +0000

FARMINGTON — Bail was set Thursday for two men accused of breaking through the front door of Food City in Wilton early Tuesday and stealing alcohol and cigarettes. David Sarti, 19, of Henderson, Nev., who is living in Wilton, and Nathan Pomeroy, 19, of Wilton were each charged with o...

Bail set for Jay man accused in Wilton burglary, theft

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Thu, 16 May 2013 18:56:00 +0000

FARMINGTON — A Jay man charged with stealing thousands of dollars worth of jewelry, guns and a chain saw from a Wilton home had bail set Thursday. Corey J. Shaw, 30, was arrested Tuesday on one felony count of burglary and two felony counts of theft by unauthorized taking after inves...

Board reverses liquor license renewal decision

Ann Bryant, Staff Writer — Thu, 16 May 2013 01:25:00 +0000

FARMINGTON — With a 4-1 vote Tuesday, selectmen reversed their February decision to require that all liquor license renewals and new applications come before the board for a public hearing. Board Chairman Ryan Morgan voted against the motion, saying he didn't want to treat businesses...

Jay man faces theft charge in Wilton burglary

Ann Bryant, Staff Writer — Thu, 16 May 2013 01:05:00 +0000

WILTON — Police say a Jay man was arrested Tuesday on a felony charge of theft involving firearms, jewelry and a chain saw from a Temple Road home. The homeowners reported the theft last week but Corey J. Shaw, 30, is believed to have broken into the home of family members several ti...

Farmington's Summer Fest comes to an end

Ann Bryant, Staff Writer — Wed, 15 May 2013 23:20:00 +0000

FARMINGTON — A longtime summer tradition in downtown Farmington has come to an end. The Farmington Downtown Association voted at their May meeting to cancel the annual Summer Fest held the last weekend in July. "The traditional end of July Summer Fest is no longer," Paul Mills...

Wilton police make arrests in Food City burglary

Ann Bryant, Staff Writer — Wed, 15 May 2013 23:10:09 +0000

WILTON — Police say they arrested two men Wednesday following a burglary and theft of alcohol and cigarettes from Food City. Nathan Pomeroy, 19, of Wilton and David Sarti, 19, of Henderson, Nev., were charged with felony burglary, police Chief Heidi Wilcox said. Sarti is staying at a...

Robbery suspect's bail set at $50,000 cash or $250,000 surety

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Wed, 15 May 2013 19:19:00 +0000

FARMINGTON — A judge set bail at $50,000 cash or $250,000 worth of property Wednesday for a Madison man accused of robbing Tranten's Too in Kingfield with a pellet handgun June 18, 2012. Kaleb Bowring, 20, made an initial appearance on a felony charge of robbery and a misdemeanor cha...

Chesterville man indicted in shooting incident

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Wed, 15 May 2013 19:13:00 +0000

FARMINGTON — A Chesterville man was indicted Tuesday on charges he fired a shotgun loaded with buckshot at a truck pulling away from his house in January. Dennis Meaney, 26, was indicted by the Franklin County grand jury on one felony count of aggravated reckless conduct and one misd...

Four indicted in drug death of Farmington woman

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Wed, 15 May 2013 19:10:00 +0000

FARMINGTON — A Franklin County grand jury indicted four people Tuesday on charges related to the drug death of Marilyn Rider, 52, of Farmington on Nov. 11, 2012. Police found Rider dead in her home at 103 Silver Maple Lane the day after a birthday party there, police said. A Feb. 13 ...

Wardens recover bodies of 2 snowmobilers from Rangeley Lake

Ann Bryant, Staff Writer — Wed, 15 May 2013 18:32:00 +0000

RANGELEY — The bodies of two snowmobilers were located and recovered from Rangeley Lake this morning. About 11:30 a.m., the Maine Warden Service dive team recovered the bodies of Kenneth Henderson and John Spencer, Doug Rafferty, spokesman for the service, said. Henderson, 40,...

Bodies of 2 more snowmobilers recovered from Rangeley Lake

Ann Bryant, Staff Writer — Wed, 15 May 2013 18:00:00 +0000

RANGELEY — The bodies of two snowmobilers missing since Dec. 30 were recovered from Rangeley Lake on Wednesday morning, the Maine Warden Service said. Divers recovered the bodies of Kenneth Henderson, 40, of China and John Spencer, 41, of Litchfield in about 60 feet of water after th...

Eustis votes overwhelmingly to leave SAD 58

Douglas McIntire, Staff Writer — Wed, 15 May 2013 02:45:00 +0000

EUSTIS — Residents voted overwhelmingly Tuesday to withdraw from SAD 58, according to Selectman Jay Wyman. The vote was 213-6, he said. "It was a long, drawn-out process," Wyman said, adding there was some hesitation in the beginning but the effort gained steady momentum. ...

RSU 9 board sets voting dates on budgets

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Wed, 15 May 2013 02:10:08 +0000

FARMINGTON — RSU 9 directors voted Tuesday night to hold a districtwide budget vote on a proposed $29.74 million vote at 7 p.m. Thursday, June 6, at Mt. Blue High School. They also voted to hold a referendum validation vote in each of the 10 district towns on Tuesday, June 11. The ti...

Phillips board refuses to act on truck weight petition

Valerie Tucker, Special to the Sun Journal — Wed, 15 May 2013 01:55:00 +0000

PHILLIPS — Selectmen at their Tuesday night meeting declined to act on a citizens' petition to ask voters to decide whether to limit the weight of trucks traveling on a section of Reeds Mill Road. The public controversy began when residents living near that section of the road learne...

Three indicted in Rangeley drug case

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Wed, 15 May 2013 01:20:11 +0000

FARMINGTON — Three people were indicted Tuesday in connection to selling illegal drugs, including heroin, cocaine and crack cocaine in January in Rangeley. Maine drug agents and several law enforcement agencies seized 257 prepackaged bags of heroin, 20 grams of prepackaged crack coca...

Board holds public hearing on proposed Cottages at Wilson Lake

Ann Bryant, Staff Writer — Wed, 15 May 2013 00:13:00 +0000

WILTON — The Planning Board will hold a public hearing on the proposed Cottages at Wilson Lake when they meet at 7 p.m. Thursday, May 16, at the town office. The proposed seven-lot subdivision is next to the golf course on Country Club Road. Jeff Harris of Harris Golf began the permi...

Wardens resume recovery work on Rangeley Lake

Ann Bryant, Staff Writer — Wed, 15 May 2013 00:10:15 +0000

RANGELEY — The Maine Warden Service resumed recovery efforts for two missing snowmobilers at Rangeley Lake on Tuesday. Wardens halted the work over the weekend due to weather conditions. High winds expected on Monday also delayed the effort. "It's back under way," spokesman Do...

Fayette Fun Festival set for Saturday

Wed, 15 May 2013 00:00:08 +0000

FAYETTE — The fifth annual Fayette Fun Festival takes place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, May 18, at the Fayette Central School on Main Street (Route 17). Children are invited to jump in the bounce house, race through the giant inflatable obstacle course and explore the truc...

Board approves applications for parking lot, gravel pit expansion

Ann Bryant, Staff Writer — Tue, 14 May 2013 23:50:08 +0000

FARMINGTON — The Planning Board unanimously approved Monday all applications necessary for construction of a parking area on Anson Street and expansion of the Pismo gravel pit in Fairbanks. Craig Jordan requested approval to build a 20-lot parking area at 112 Anson St. to help accomm...

Jay selectmen reschedule meetings

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Tue, 14 May 2013 21:50:08 +0000

JAY — Selectmen changed their meeting schedule Monday to accommodate Memorial Day, elections and municipal budget votes. The board changed its Monday, May 27, meeting, which fell on Memorial Day, to 6 p.m. Monday, June 3, at the Town Office. Selectmen also canceled their Monda...

Madrid Township man indicted in sex case

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Tue, 14 May 2013 21:20:08 +0000

FARMINGTON — A Madrid Township man was indicted Tuesday on sex offenses against two boys in Maine and Massachusetts. John A. Fahnley, 58, of East Madrid Road was indicted on one felony account of gross sexual assault and two felony counts of sexual abuse of a minor. A convicti...

American Legion plans to honor vets with flags in Livermore Falls

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Tue, 14 May 2013 16:05:00 +0000

LIVERMORE FALLS — Hundreds of flags are expected to line Veterans Hill on Park Street from May 24 to 30. The hill is in front of the RSU 73 Central Office building at Park and Cedar streets. Members of the American Legion Post 10 in Livermore Falls are organizing the display of flags...

Wardens back at Rangeley Lake searching for snowmobilers

Ryan McLaughlin, Bangor Daily News — Tue, 14 May 2013 15:31:00 +0000

RANGELEY — Recovery efforts resumed on Tuesday for the bodies of two men presumed to be in Rangeley Lake. Doug Rafferty, spokesman for the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, said Tuesday that game wardens are utilizing sonar equipment to search for Kenneth Henderson, 40, of...

Jay highway crew to salvage some items from house

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Tue, 14 May 2013 04:00:17 +0000

JAY — Selectmen agreed Monday that the highway crew salvage some items people want from a house on Route 133 the town owns and will have torn down. The process has hit a little snag, Town Manager Ruth Cushman said. Half the town has been asking to go in and remove items &mdash...

Franklin County panel to hold public hearing on $5.5 million budget

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Tue, 14 May 2013 04:00:17 +0000

FARMINGTON — The Franklin County budget panel will hold a public hearing on a proposed $5.5 million budget for 2013-14 at 5 p.m. Monday, May 20, in the Superior Courtroom at the county courthouse. The proposal is $203,484 more than the current budget and includes $1....

Farmington board holds hearing on home covered in black mold

Ann Bryant, Staff Writer — Tue, 14 May 2013 02:20:08 +0000

FARMINGTON — Selectmen will hold a hearing Tuesday to determine if a 199 Red Schoolhouse Road house is dangerous or a nuisance after black mold covered the inside of the property. The board meets at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 14, at the Municipal Building. The structure, an added-...

Wilton dedicates town report to 'Kip' Brown

Ann Bryant, Staff Writer — Tue, 14 May 2013 00:30:09 +0000

WILTON — Selectmen presented the first copies of the town's annual report to family members of the late Earle "Kip" Brown Jr. on Monday at the town office. Brown served for many years as the town's road foreman, mostly in the 1960s. Born in 1926, he died in 2012. He also serve...

Madison man arrested in Tranten's Too robbery; second suspect faces charges

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Tue, 14 May 2013 00:10:15 +0000

KINGFIELD — A Madison man was arrested Monday at Somerset County Jail in Madison on a charge of felony robbery in connection to an armed robbery at Tranten's Too at about 8 p.m. on...

Finny joins the flock

Eileen M. Adams, Special to the Sun Journal — Tue, 14 May 2013 00:10:00 +0000

Finny has finally been accepted into the flock. Not the whole flock, but a part of it. His brother, Shamus, who had been attacking him from inside the fence as Finny walked around the exterior, finally welcomed him into the pen. I guess Shamus...

Correction: Miller valedictorian; Berry salutatorian

Mon, 13 May 2013 23:35:00 +0000

JAY/LIVERMORE FALLS — A story published on Page B1 of Monday's Region edition about top students at Spruce Mountain High School in Livermore Falls should have said Amethyst Mill is valedictorian of the Class of 2013 and Caleb Berry is salutatorian. It was a reporting error.

Franklin County arrest log

Mon, 13 May 2013 23:00:12 +0000

FARMINGTON — The following were recently booked at the Franklin County Detention Center: * Elliott Carlton, 24, Chesterville, warrant unpaid fine/fees, released on payment plan, May 9, Franklin County Sheriff's Department. * Andrew Powers, 26, Farmington, warrant unpaid f...

Wilton Group holds informational sessions for voters

Ann Bryant, Staff Writer — Mon, 13 May 2013 23:00:12 +0000

WILTON — The Wilton Group will host two presentations to help residents become more informed about proposed town ordinances and the candidates on which they'll vote in June. Both presentations will be held from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the Comfort Inn on the next two Wednesdays. The ...

Livermore transfer station won't take brush, large quantities of shingles

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Mon, 13 May 2013 17:20:00 +0000

LIVERMORE — Brush and large amounts of asphalt shingles will not be accepted at the town's Transfer Station. The Sold Waste Board agreed not to pursue adding a separate asphalt shingle container at this time, assistant administrator Kurt Schaub said. The town updated its stati...

Private investigators look into Kibby Mountain wind turbine fire

The Associated Press — Mon, 13 May 2013 16:35:00 +0000

PORTLAND — An investigation into the cause of a fire that destroyed a wind turbine at New England's largest wind farm is expected to wrap up...

Truck driver faces distracted driving charge in Wilton crash

Ann Bryant, Staff Writer — Mon, 13 May 2013 15:40:08 +0000

WILTON — The driver of a loaded tractor-trailer faces a charge of distracted driving after his rig struck the back of a car stopped to make a turn on Burgess Hill on Monday morning, police said. The truck driven by Douglas Wakefield, 56, of Lowell, and the car driven by Marissa Woodc...

This week's agenda

Mon, 13 May 2013 04:00:00 +0000

Thursday Salem Township: SAD 58 Board of Directors, 6:30 p.m., Mt. Abram High School Wilton: Planning Board, 7 p.m., Town Office

Top students say 'take learning seriously'

Eileen M. Adams, Special to the Sun Journal — Sun, 12 May 2013 22:40:13 +0000

JAY/LIVERMORE FALLS — One has dual citizenship, another worked her way up, one young man has deep roots in the area and the fourth chose to finish her high school career at Spruce Mountain High School. Although each of the four valedictorians and salutatorians at the north and south ...

Hearing set on proposed ordinances

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Sun, 12 May 2013 22:00:17 +0000

LIVERMORE — The Planning Board will hold a public hearing Wednesday on proposed amendments to the Site Plan Review Ordinance that include noise, lighting, signs and adult entertainment for businesses. A revised floodplain management ordinance will also be reviewed at 7 p.m. May 15 in...

Parking lot, gravel pit expansion projects to be reviewed

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Sun, 12 May 2013 22:00:17 +0000

FARMINGTON – The Planning Board will consider applications on Monday for a 20-space parking lot on Anson Street and an expansion of a gravel pit on Fairbanks Road. The meeting begins at 6 p.m. May 13 in the Planning Board meeting room at the Municipal Building. Craig Jordan of...

Today's agenda

Sun, 12 May 2013 21:50:09 +0000

Oxford Hills BETHEL: Conservation Commission, 4:30 p.m., Town Office BETHEL: SAD 44 Board of Directors, 6: 30 p.m., Telstar High School River Valley DIXFIELD: RSU 10 Board of Directors, 6:30 p.m., Dirigo High School PERU: Selectmen, 6 p.m., Town Office

Lewiston heart center has saved lives and earned praise from former opponents

Lindsay Tice, Staff Writer — Sun, 12 May 2013 02:00:00 +0000

LEWISTON — More than a decade ago, Rich Livingston went to Augusta to urge the state to approve a controversial heart center in Lewiston. Maine had only two such centers, which meant Lewiston-Auburn-area patients typically had to travel nearly an hour to Portland or two hours to Bang...

New Sharon man dies from injuries sustained in accident

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Sat, 11 May 2013 13:24:00 +0000

LEWISTON — State police say a New Sharon man died Friday afternoon at Central Maine Medical Center from injuries he sustained Thursday in an accident in front of his home.

Call for help: Low-income Mainers scrambling after being dropped from discount phone service

Kathryn Skelton, Staff Writer — Sat, 11 May 2013 04:00:06 +0000

After filling out an eligibility survey incorrectly, not getting the survey or ignoring it, low-income Mainers are being bounced from a federal discount phone service program — and being back-billed for past charges. Wayne Jortner, senior counsel at the Maine Public Advocate's Office...

Vote on liquor permit for Strong cafe Monday

Valerie Tucker, Special to the Sun Journal — Sat, 11 May 2013 00:00:00 +0000

STRONG — Black Dog Café owners Steve Heath, his son, Eric, and daughter-in-law, Barbara, have one last step to take before getting a license to serve customers beer or wine with their meals. Business is booming, Eric Heath said, and takeout orders keep them busy Wednesday thro...

Damaged safe recovered in pond outlet in New Sharon

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Fri, 10 May 2013 18:25:00 +0000

NEW SHARON — A safe believed to have been stolen was recovered in an outlet of Crowell Pond on May 3 with its bottom smashed open, Trooper Mathew Casavant of the Maine State Police said. The Franklin County Sheriff's Department received a call from a fisherman earlier this spring not...

Snowmobiler's body found in Rangeley Lake

Staff report — Fri, 10 May 2013 18:04:00 +0000

RANGELEY — Searchers on Friday found the body of a missing snowmobiler in Rangeley Lake and planned to continue looking for two others next week, a Maine Warden Service official said. The body of Glen Henderson, 43, of Sabattus was found at about 1 p.m. in 135 feet of water about a q...

Wardens continue search for bodies in Rangeley Lake

Ann Bryant, Staff Writer — Fri, 10 May 2013 04:00:00 +0000

RANGELEY — Technical difficulties halted a search Thursday for the bodies of three missing snowmobilers in Rangeley Lake. The equipment was expected to be fixed Thursday night, Maine Warden Service Lt. Kevin Adam said as five boats returned to the dock at Lakeside Park shortly after...

Grant to improve Mt. Abram High School security

Valerie Tucker, Special to the Sun Journal — Fri, 10 May 2013 02:25:00 +0000

SALEM TOWNSHIP — The Maine Emergency Management Agency has awarded SAD 58 a $17,000 grant to help upgrade Mt. Abram High School’s security. Improvements include installing exterior security cameras and an interior “panic button,” similar to those used by banks to ca...

Cormier to continue to support public education, teaching

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Thu, 09 May 2013 23:10:20 +0000

FARMINGTON — Mike Cormier's passion is teaching and public education. The 64-year-old Wilton man became interested in education as a child. Some of his high school teachers inspired him to go into the field. Since then, he has spent more than 42 years sharing his knowledge wit...

Summer road work plan finalized

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Thu, 09 May 2013 22:30:00 +0000

LIVERMORE — The Road Committee has finalized the summer work to be done to improve town roads. Voters will consider raising $260,000 for the road program at the annual town meeting Wednesday, June 12. The plan calls for a finish layer of asphalt on the section of Norlands Road...

Commissioners to inspect county roads Saturday

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Thu, 09 May 2013 22:25:00 +0000

FARMINGTON — Franklin County commissioners will take a road trip Saturday, May 11, to view county roads. Commissioners plan to start their annual trip at 7 a.m. with Road Agent Jerry Haines to get a look at road conditions and see what work Haines proposed to be done to improve them....

Correction: Dallas Plantation considering Saddleback request

Thu, 09 May 2013 22:20:00 +0000

RANGELEY — A story published Thursday on Page B2 of the Franklin edition, Page B3 of the Oxford Hills edition and Page B4 of the River Valley edition about Saddleback Resort should have said Chris Farmer, general manager of Saddleback, said at Tuesday's selectmen's meeting that Sandy River ...

Divers searching for missing snowmobilers in Rangeley Lake

Ann Bryant, Staff Writer — Thu, 09 May 2013 17:53:00 +0000

RANGELEY — A team of eight divers searched parts of Rangeley Lake on Thursday afternoon for the bodies of three snowmobilers missing since Dec. 30. Wardens had located the sleds of Kenneth Henderson, 40, of China, Glen Henderson, 43, of Sabattus, and John Spencer, 41, of Litchfield i...

Fire destroys large shed near house in Jay

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Thu, 09 May 2013 16:09:00 +0000

JAY — A fire destroyed a large shed Wednesday night at a residence on Route 133, Assistant Fire Chief Mike Booker said Thursday. The Robert Hall family wasn't home and had left at about 3:30 p.m., he said. The fire was reported at 6 p.m. A state fire investigator is continuing...

Wilton police seek truck driver who offered young girl a ride

Ann Bryant, Staff Writer — Thu, 09 May 2013 14:55:00 +0000

WILTON — Police want to talk with a truck driver who offered a young girl a ride on the Temple Road on Wednesday afternoon. “No crime was committed, but we would like to speak with the operator of the truck,” police Chief Heidi Wilcox said Thursday. Police were cal...

Farmington firefighter honored for 50 years of service

Ann Bryant, Staff Writer — Thu, 09 May 2013 04:00:10 +0000

FARMINGTON — When firefighters were called out to help search for a missing child Saturday night, Douglas Oliver was halfway to Skowhegan to celebrate his May 4 birthday. He came back to town. That's part of the dedication he's given to Farmington Fire and Rescue for 50 ...

Saddleback seeks Rangeley's help in becoming nonprofit

Dale Hill, Special to the Sun Journal — Thu, 09 May 2013 00:50:13 +0000

Editor's note: Story was edited to reflect that Dallas Plantation is still considering providing the requested letter. RANGELEY — The Board of Selectmen was asked Tuesday by Saddleback ski area general manager Chris Farmer for support in turning Saddleback Resort int...

Gravel pit application still in lurch

Valerie Tucker, Special to the Sun Journal — Thu, 09 May 2013 00:40:00 +0000

MADRID TOWNSHIP — Land Use Planning commissioners agreed Wednesday to continue their permitting review process for gravel pit owner Mark Beauregard, but they stood firm on their decision not to schedule a public hearing. Commissioners gathered in Millinocket for their monthly review ...

Police, firefighters extinguish fire caused by passing train

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Wed, 08 May 2013 23:45:00 +0000

LIVERMORE FALLS — A small fire believed to have been started by a passing train on Tuesday afternoon was contained by a police officer with a fire extinguisher from his cruiser, fire Chief Tim “T.D.” Hardy said Wednesday. Police Sgt. Vernon Stevens was able to keep the fi...

Strong Man's Rally to be held in Jay

Wed, 08 May 2013 23:45:00 +0000

JAY — The Son Shine Ministries will host a Strong Man's Rally, a Christian ministry to men, at 8 a.m. Saturday, May 11, at its church at 99 Main St., the former Jay Town Office. The ministry presentations by Pastor John Echardt of Family Christian Fellowship in Topsham and co-present...

Committee recommends eliminating 80 percent of streetlights

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Wed, 08 May 2013 23:40:00 +0000

LIVERMORE — An informational meeting is scheduled this month on a proposal to reduce the number of streetlights from 54 to 10. The meeting will be held at 7 p.m. Wednesday, May 29, at the Livermore Elementary School. There will be two articles on the annual town meeting warran...

Property owners to be asked to remove unofficial street signs

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Wed, 08 May 2013 23:30:00 +0000

FARMINGTON — Franklin County commissioners are giving three property owners in Salem Township who have erected signs at the end of their driveways, declaring them as named lanes, 10 days to remove them, unless there is a legality that would interfere with that ruling. County Clerk Ju...

Wilton police investigate theft of wood-pellet stoves

Ann Bryant, Staff Writer — Wed, 08 May 2013 23:25:00 +0000

WILTON — Police are investigating the recent theft of two pellet-burning wood stoves from two vacant apartments on Depot Street. The department received information Monday that the two stoves were up for sale on the front of someone's property in North Jay within the last week, polic...

Wilton voters approve downtown TIF district and plan

Ann Bryant, Staff Writer — Wed, 08 May 2013 23:20:00 +0000

WILTON — A small gathering of voters approved adoption of a downtown redevelopment plan and a tax-increment financing district for a development program during a short special town meeting Tuesday. They also agreed to amend the current TIF with Comfort Inn, one started in 2007. The a...

Livermore Falls selectmen discuss Transfer Station safety

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Wed, 08 May 2013 17:25:00 +0000

LIVERMORE FALLS — New yellow lines will be painted at the town's transfer station for safety purposes and to direct people to follow the one-way road. Public Works foreman Bill Nichols told selectmen of the plan Monday night. Doug Judd, a resident of Livermore who owns propert...

Irish Pub Night to transform Emery Community Arts Center

Ann Bryant, Staff Writer — Wed, 08 May 2013 04:00:09 +0000

FARMINGTON — The performance space at the Emery Community Arts Center is being transformed into an Irish pub for a special Saturday night celebration. Located on the campus of the University of Maine at Farmington, the Irish Pub Night is being offered to the community by the arts cen...

State commission to rule on gravel pit hearing

Valerie Tucker, Special to the Sun Journal — Wed, 08 May 2013 04:00:09 +0000

MADRID TOWNSHIP — The Maine Land Use Planning Commission will decide whether to reconsider a request by area residents to hold a public hearing before granting an operating permit to a local gravel pit owner. Recently, Maine's Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife reviewed and ...

Upcountry Artists Learning Center and Gallery grand opening Friday

Ann Bryant, Staff Writer — Tue, 07 May 2013 23:45:00 +0000

FARMINGTON — A grand opening for Upcountry Artists Learning Center and Gallery will take place from 4:30 to 7 p.m. Friday, May 10, in the new space at 218 Broadway. About 15 member-artists have submitted paintings for display, said Mary Beth Morrison as she and Mardy Bogar arranged p...

Lacrosse program offered by Farmington Recreation Department

Tue, 07 May 2013 23:35:00 +0000

FARMINGTON — The Recreation Department is taking registrations for Farmington-area students in grades seven and eight who want to take part in a middle-school lacrosse program. The deadline for registering is 5 p.m. Friday, May 10, with forms accepted from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday at ...

Job Fair Thursday at Wilton Career Center

Tue, 07 May 2013 23:30:00 +0000

WILTON — The Wilton CareerCenter will hold a job fair for veterans from 9 a.m. to noon Thursday, May 9, at its office at 865 U.S. Route 2E in Wilton. The general public is also welcome to attend. More than a dozen employers will be recruiting for open positions. The foll...

Franklin County Arrest Log

Tue, 07 May 2013 21:10:16 +0000

FARMINGTON — The following arrests were recently logged at Franklin County Detention Center: * Jennifer Tripp, 39, Readfield, warrant for theft by unauthorized taking/transfer, burglary, May 6, $1,000 unsecured bail, court appearance June 25, Franklin County Sheriff's Department....

Pet owners asked to pick up dog waste, trash in Livermore Falls

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Tue, 07 May 2013 20:01:00 +0000

LIVERMORE FALLS — People are asked to pick up their trash and their dogs' feces if they walk them along the Foundry Road Path or on the town's Recreation Field. The issue is becoming a problem for those wanting to walk or play in the area, Town Manager Kristal Flagg told selectmen Mo...

Detective, transport officer promoted

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Tue, 07 May 2013 17:44:00 +0000

FARMINGTON — Franklin County commissioners voted Tuesday to promote Detective David St. Laurent to detective lieutenant and jail transport officer Phillip “Phil” Richards to corporal and transport supervisor. Both men work for the Franklin County Sheriff's Office. ...

Verso to pay for insurance for Memorial Day Parade

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Tue, 07 May 2013 17:33:00 +0000

LIVERMORE FALLS — Town Manager Kristal Flagg said she received a call Tuesday from a representative of Verso Paper Corp. saying the Jay company will pay for the liability insurance so the Memorial Day Parade can go on. The parade was in jeopardy of not happening this year if a rider ...

Wilton 5-year-old injured when she jumps out of rolling Jeep

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Tue, 07 May 2013 15:29:00 +0000

JAY — A 5-year-old Wilton girl was injured Monday when she shifted a Jeep into neutral and it rolled backward across Route 140, down an embankment and into the mud along the edge of the Androscoggin River. The child jumped out of the rolling vehicle onto Route 140 and received minor ...

This week's agenda

Tue, 07 May 2013 04:00:19 +0000

Tuesday Wilton: Selectmen, 7 p.m., Town Office Thursday Salem Township: SAD 58 Board of Directors, 6:30 p.m., Mt. Abram High School

Suspect in assault arrested

Ann Bryant, Staff Writer — Tue, 07 May 2013 04:00:19 +0000

FARMINGTON — An Industry man sought by police last week was found at a home in New Sharon on Saturday and arrested on felony charges of aggravated assault and burglary and a charge of violation of condition of release. Farmington Police Department asked for the public's help in locat...

Franklin County arrest log

Tue, 07 May 2013 04:00:19 +0000

FARMINGTON — The following arrests recently were logged at Franklin County Detention Center: Simeon J. Roberts, 20, Industry, warrant for aggravated assault and burglary, May 4, no bail listed, Farmington Police Department. Evan Gordon, 29, Farmington, warrant for theft by una...

Wilton special town meeting set for Tuesday

Ann Bryant, Staff Writer — Tue, 07 May 2013 02:20:00 +0000

WILTON — Selectmen will hold a public hearing followed by a special town meeting at 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 7, at the town office. The purpose of the meeting is to pursue adoption of a downtown revitalization plan, designation of a proposed downtown tax increment financing (TIF) district...

Kingfield board OKs new rules, fees for hall

Valerie Tucker, Special to the Sun Journal — Tue, 07 May 2013 01:55:00 +0000

KINGFIELD — Selectmen on Monday night approved new Webster Hall rental fees and usage policies that will take effect July 1. At the board meeting, Administrative Assistant Leanna Targett presented some modifications that address cleaning requirements and rental costs for types of eve...

Town to help pay insurance for Memorial Day Parade

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Tue, 07 May 2013 01:30:40 +0000

LIVERMORE FALLS — Selectmen unanimously voted Monday to donate the funds to cover the town's share of liability insurance so that the annual Memorial Day Parade can go on. The town’s own insurance would not cover a parade unless it was held on the town’s property, Town Ma...

Town buys property to improve Route 133 intersection

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Tue, 07 May 2013 01:20:00 +0000

JAY — The town has bought a vacant house and three to four acres that go with it at the intersection of Route 133 and Hyde Road. If no asbestos is found in the house, it will be torn down by the end of the week to allow work to begin to fix the intersection. The town has partnered wi...

Labor pact approved, no retroactive pay for employees

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Tue, 07 May 2013 01:10:00 +0000

JAY — Selectmen and a union representing the town's transfer station workers have ratified a three-year contract. There is no retroactive pay involved in the contract that dates back to July 1, 2011. Selectmen voted to approve the contract on April 29 after it went to arbitration ear...

Pink flamingos welcome spring in Farmington

Ann Bryant — Tue, 07 May 2013 01:00:00 +0000

FARMINGTON — Residents in the RSU 9 district can once again "flock" a friend for a minimal charge that helps students in the school's music program. A flock of 10 pink flamingos can mysteriously appear on someone's lawn for a donation of $15 to the Mt. Blue Music Boosters, Holly Rice...

Farmington woman charged with assaulting officers as they search for her child

Ann Bryant, Staff Writer — Mon, 06 May 2013 18:40:00 +0000

FARMINGTON — Police say a Chesterville woman faces charges, including assault of an officer, as area police and fire fighters searched for her child Saturday. A charge of unlawful possession of prescription drugs was added when police found she possessed prescription medication...

Woman accused of punching man, damaging truck

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Mon, 06 May 2013 16:00:00 +0000

RANGELEY — A local woman is accused of punching a man in the head Sunday night and then going out of Sarge's Pub & Grub and damaging his truck with a sharp object, police Chief Dennis Leahy said Monday. Officer Jared Austin charged Aubrey Thurston, 27, of Rangeley on one count ea...

Jay to have write-ins for two RSU 73 seats

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Mon, 06 May 2013 15:41:00 +0000

Jay has no takers to fill two positions on the RSU 73 Board of Directors. Both Livermore and Livermore Falls will have candidates for the school board on ballots in those towns. No one took out papers for the three-year positions, Jay Town Clerk Ronda Palmer said. This has never hap...

Farmington saves money by building fire truck

The Associated Press — Mon, 06 May 2013 12:16:00 +0000

FARMINGTON (AP) — The town of Farmington has come up with a way to save money in a time of tight municipal budgets. Instead of buying a new fire truck, firefighters and public works employees built the vehicle themselves. Chief Terry Bell says many volunteer firefighters have ...

Franklin County arrest log

Sun, 05 May 2013 21:40:11 +0000

FARMINGTON — The following were recently booked at the Franklin County Detention Center: * Carol Hall, 44, Strong, warrant criminal mischief, April 30, $200 cash bail, Franklin County Sheriff's Department. * Samuel Thibault, 30, Wilton, warrant unpaid fine/fees, April 30...

Today's agenda

Sun, 05 May 2013 21:40:11 +0000

Franklin NEW VINEYARD: Selectmen, 6 p.m., Town Office Oxford Hills BETHEL: Selectmen, 7 p.m., Town Office HARTFORD: Food bank, 4 p.m., Town Hall HARTFORD: Planning Board, 7 p.m., Town Hall NEWRY: Selectmen, 4:30 p.m., Town Office OXFORD: SAD 17 Boa...

Paving project expected to delay traffic

Fri, 03 May 2013 23:45:00 +0000

FARMINGTON — Pavement preservation work near and at the Route 2 and 4 intersection will begin Monday, May 6, and motorists should expect delays, according to a release from the Maine Department of Transportation. Flaggers will assist motorists with a single lane of alternating one-wa...

Augusta driver injured after hitting pole in Strong

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Fri, 03 May 2013 18:05:00 +0000

STRONG — An Augusta man was injured Friday morning on Route 4 after the car he was driving hit a utility pole and brought down power lines. Eric Lee, 21, was driving a 2006 BMW southbound when the car drifted off the west side of the roadway. He attempted to correct and struck the po...

Money taken in break-in

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Fri, 03 May 2013 17:28:00 +0000

LIVERMORE FALLS — Police are investigating a Thursday burglary at a residence on West Loop, located off Route 133 and Hunton Loop. An disclosed amount of money was taken. Entry was gained through force, police Chief Ernest Steward Jr. said Friday. The burglary occurred ...

Police extend investigation to N.H. in theft of jewelry in Wilton

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Fri, 03 May 2013 17:21:00 +0000

WILTON — Police were headed to New Hampshire on Friday to continue investigating the theft of some older-style jewelry from a residence on Route 2. Police had put out an alert to other law enforcement agencies about a theft reported Thursday, with a description of a vehicle that had ...

Agreement approved to design Whittier Road bank stablization project

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Fri, 03 May 2013 17:00:00 +0000

FARMINGTON — Selectmen voted Thursday to enter into an agreement with the U.S. Forest Service enterprise unit to provide design and construction oversight of a riverbank stabilization project by Whittier Road, Town Manager Richard Davis said Friday. Davis said the cost for this porti...

He's a winner!

Fri, 03 May 2013 04:01:04 +0000

Franklin County Deputy Sheriff Scott Nichols Jr. places a ribbon around the neck of one of the more than 120 athletes at Thursday's annual Area Spring Games for Special Olympics Maine at Spruce Mountain High School in Jay. Dozens of volunteers helped out. The Jay Amvets and Jay VFW provided lunch...

Education commissioner tours Mexico school

Eileen Adams, Special to the Sun Journal — Fri, 03 May 2013 01:11:14 +0000

MEXICO — Department of Education Commissioner Steve Bowen toured Mountain Valley Middle School on Thursday afternoon to see how its mass customized learning initiative is progressing. He also met with many teachers and administrators to learn what the department can do to help improv...

SAD 58 superintendent says state grade another sign of quality education

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Thu, 02 May 2013 20:25:00 +0000

PHILLIPS — Having a committed, veteran staff that continuously reviews student data contributed to SAD 58 receiving three A's from the state for elementary schools, Superintendent Brenda Stevens said Thursday. “We have students and staff who are committed to showing up and doin...

Androscoggin, Oxford counties health rankings improve

Wed, 01 May 2013 23:55:00 +0000

LEWISTON — In a national health ranking of all counties by state, Androscoggin County was deemed the sixth healthiest county in Maine, a notable improvement over its 2012 ranking of 11th, according to a news release distributed by MaineHealth. Oxford County improved even more, from M...

Police search for assault suspect

Wed, 01 May 2013 23:15:00 +0000

FARMINGTON — Local police are asking the public for help in locating an Industry man wanted in connection with an assault. The assault occurred Tuesday on Perham Street, police said. An arrest warrant has been issued for 20-year-old Simeon Roberts, who is wanted on charges of ...

Rangeley shifts some budget items to next year

Dale Hill, Special to Sun Journal — Wed, 01 May 2013 23:10:00 +0000

RANGELEY — A joint meeting Tuesday by the Board of Selectmen and the town's six-person Budget Committee centered on which issues should be prepared for the May 20 town meeting. Residents will vote on the 2013-14 budget at the town meeting . Among the items shifted to next year...

Grange to hold open house, give award

Wed, 01 May 2013 23:10:00 +0000

EAST DIXFIELD — There will be an open house and buffet beginning at noon Saturday, May 4, at the Mystic Valley Grange. The Community Service Award will be presented during a meeting that begins at 1 p.m. upstairs in the hall.

RSU 9 board recognizes top scholars

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Wed, 01 May 2013 22:40:00 +0000

FARMINGTON — It was a night to honor the Class of 2013 scholars and recognize their achievements. The RSU 9 school board held a reception Tuesday night for the top 12 graduating seniors, the top two students who graduated in January and the Foster Regional Career and Technical Educat...

RSU 9: Assistant principal position added, budget set

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Wed, 01 May 2013 22:30:00 +0000

FARMINGTON — RSU 9 directors voted 13-3 Tuesday to add a half-time principal at the Mallett School in Farmington. The weighted vote was 779-222, with directors Angela LeClair and Keith Swett, both of Wilton, and Wanda Soule of Chesterville opposed. The board also voted to set the pro...

Two face charges in domestic dispute

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 23:30:00 +0000

SALEM TOWNSHIP — A local man is accused of discharging a shotgun during a dispute Monday. State police Trooper Keith Barton issued a summons to Jack Komisarek, 64, on Tuesday on a misdemeanor charge of reckless conduct with a firearm, Sgt. Jeffrey Beach said. Barton issued a s...

Retired deputy to become paddock judge at Bangor raceway

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 23:25:00 +0000

FARMINGTON — Albert Smith of Wilton had a bachelor's degree in accounting, but a ride-along with his brother, a Farmington police officer, changed his mind about his career. He liked being outside rather than working inside, he said. Smith, 68, officially retired Tuesday after...

Strong man retires after nearly 37 years on guard

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 23:10:00 +0000

FARMINGTON — Niles Yeaton of Strong went from running a “mom and pop” gas station with his wife, Sandy, to becoming a turnkey and dispatcher for the Franklin County Sheriff's Department. Lt. Detective Yeaton officially retired on Tuesday after nearly 37 years with the cou...

Detective recognized for recovering stolen firearms

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 23:00:00 +0000

JAY — Detective Richard Caton IV had only one lead, a phone call, and he followed it until he found 19 stolen firearms that were recovered within 24 hours in January 2012. The U.S. Attorney's Office of the District of Maine recognized Caton, 32, of Wilton for his “outstanding c...

Franklin County arrest log

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 21:30:07 +0000

FARMINGTON — The following were recently booked at the Franklin County Detention Center: Gary L. Choate, 26, Farmington, possession of oxycodone, operating without a license, April 25, no bail listed as of April 29, Farmington Police Department. Matthew Kaherl, 22, Jay, operat...

Fire-damaged house to be 'gutted,' owner says

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 15:25:00 +0000

JAY — The owner of a Spring Street home that was damaged by fire Sunday said his insurance adjuster told him the two-story structure would have to be gutted. The damage was much more than the $20,000 reported by the Sun Journal on Tuesday, Donald Knight Jr. said Tuesday. The f...

Residents voice concerns over property maintenance ordinance

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 04:00:16 +0000

LIVERMORE FALLS — Residents attending a public hearing Monday questioned the need for a property maintenance ordinance that would require the repainting of structures with chipped or flaking paint. Residents questioned many details of the ordinance, including the requirement that all...

Special Olympics Summer Games on Thursday

Eileen M. Adams, Special to the Sun Journal — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 22:47:00 +0000

JAY — The annual Special Olympics Summer Games take place from 9:45 a.m. until 1 p.m. Thursday, May 2, at Spruce Mountain High School. Co-chairman Gary Desjardins said more than 200 developmentally disabled children and adults from throughout Western Maine are expected to participate...

Police respond to domestic dispute involving gunshots

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 22:40:00 +0000

SALEM TOWNSHIP — State police are investigating a domestic dispute that involved a shotgun being discharged in a yard Monday morning. No one was injured. There are charges, Sgt. Jeffrey Beach said, but he declined to release them until the investigation is completed, probably Tuesday...

Truck, equipment damaged

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 22:35:00 +0000

NEW SHARON — A truck hauling a 50-foot conveyor jackknifed and rolled over off Route 2 on Thursday, Maine State Trooper Aaron Turcotte said Monday. David Newman, 20, of Livermore told police he was driving a 1997 Ford F-350 that was hauling the conveyor when he felt the equipment swa...

County budget panel begins review of proposed $5.5 million

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 22:25:00 +0000

FARMINGTON — A Franklin County budget panel began review Monday of a proposed $5.5 million budget for 2013-14. The package for all departments includes a 2 percent increase for employees but that doesn't mean that is what they will get. The Budget Advisory Committee began its ...

Strong camp damaged by bullets

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 16:50:00 +0000

STRONG — A Franklin County deputy is investigating a report of shots fired at a camp on Sweets Pond Lane sometime since October. The owner from Massachusetts discovered a front window had been shattered and siding had been damaged with what appears to be a .22-caliber slug, Sheriff S...

Man charged with leaving accident scene

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 16:42:00 +0000

WILTON — A Temple man faces charges after he fled the scene when his van went off Thompson Street and struck a mailbox and several trees Saturday night, police Chief Heidi Wilcox said Monday. Officer Billie Martin issued Blaine Berube, 20, summonses on misdemeanor charges of leaving ...

Jay driver charged after leaving scene of Livermore Falls accident

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 15:40:00 +0000

LIVERMORE FALLS — A Jay man was charged Sunday after police say his car hit a small loader in a parking lot off Church Street and pushed it into a parked pickup truck, and he left the scene. A Western Auto employee noticed as he was going by the store's parking lot that a customer's ...

No one injured when baby's changing table catches fire in Jay

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 15:15:00 +0000

JAY — No one was injured Sunday afternoon when a lamp on a baby's changing table caught fire at a house at 2 Spring St. Damage was estimated at about $20,000, Jay fire Assistant Chief Mike Booker said Monday. About 40 firefighters from six departments responded to the 1:14 p.m. fire ...

Officials confer on solving Sandy River erosion

Ann Bryant, Staff Writer — Sun, 28 Apr 2013 22:20:08 +0000

FARMINGTON — Town, federal and state agencies agreed Friday to pursue a "hybrid" plan that incorporates logs and rocks to stop erosion along the Sandy River that threatens Whittier Road. With a goal of starting construction of about 10 log structures on the bank by July 15, the start...

Livermore voters to consider changing administrative position to elected

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Sun, 28 Apr 2013 22:20:08 +0000

LIVERMORE — Voters will be asked in June if they want to change the administrative assistant position from appointed to elected beginning June 2014. Town Clerk Renda Libby said she verified the signatures on the petition submitted by Cathy and Dennis Lee that requested the change.

County budget panel to begin deliberation

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Sun, 28 Apr 2013 22:20:08 +0000

FARMINGTON — A Franklin County budget panel will begin deliberations on a proposed $5.5 million budget for 2013-14 Monday, April 29, at the commissioners' office. Members of the Budget Advisory Committee have set a schedule for departments and program grant representatives to meet wi...

Franklin County arrest log

Sun, 28 Apr 2013 22:20:08 +0000

FARMINGTON — The following were recently booked at the Franklin County Detention Center: * Nathan Hawes, 22, Jay, warrant unpaid fines, fees, April 23, $595 cash bail, Jay Police Department. * Jaclyn McKinnon, 30, Wilton, theft, April 23, $250 cash bail, Farmington Police Depa...

Today's agenda

Sun, 28 Apr 2013 22:20:08 +0000

River Valley PERU: Selectmen's meeting, 6 p.m., Town Office

Jay looking for oldest citizen

Sat, 27 Apr 2013 04:00:12 +0000

JAY — Town Manager Ruth Cushman is trying to find the oldest resident in the town to present him or her with the Boston Post Cane. The oldest resident she's found so far is 95. If anyone knows or is related to someone older, they are asked to call Cushman at 897-6785.

Livermore Falls man charged for burning without a permit

Terry Karkos, Staff Writer — Sat, 27 Apr 2013 04:00:00 +0000

A Strickland Loop Road homeowner who set a test fire on Saturday afternoon called for help when the unpermitted burn became a wildfire and destroyed his shed and about an acre of grass and brush, Jeff Currier, regional forest ranger of the Maine Forest Service, said Saturday in a news report.

Correction: UMF first in public higher education

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 22:05:00 +0000

UMF clarification FARMINGTON — A story published on Page B2 of the Franklin edition Friday about the University of Maine at Farmington's 150th celebration should have said UMF was the first institution of public higher learning in Maine. Incorrect information was reported.

Livermore Falls man to serve four months for break-ins at ski areas

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Fri, 26 Apr 2013 17:50:00 +0000

FARMINGTON — A Livermore Falls man was sentenced Friday to four years, all but 120 days suspended, and two years probation for breaking into the lodge of Titcomb Mountain Ski Area in Farmington in March 2012 and a garage in November at Spruce Mountain Ski Slope in Jay. Ronald J. Davi...

Farmington sewer rates to drop slightly with new budget

Ann Bryant, Staff Writer — Fri, 26 Apr 2013 04:00:13 +0000

FARMINGTON — Selectmen on Tuesday unanimously approved a sewer budget of $952,937 for 2013, a decrease of nearly $234,000 from last year. Customers will see a decrease in quarterly sewer bills now that debt payments on the 1993 upgrade of the wastewater plant are finished. The...

Watchdog group to investigate CDC, DHHS

Lindsay Tice, Staff Writer — Fri, 26 Apr 2013 04:00:00 +0000

Weeks after a Maine Center for Disease Control director accused her bosses of, among other things, giving hundreds of thousands of dollars in state funding to favored organizations and harassing her when she refused to destroy documents related to that funding, a watchdog group will investigate.

Poetry celebrated on Shakespeare's birthday in Farmington

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 23:40:00 +0000

FARMINGTON — The Beloit Poetry Journal, Farmington Public Library and Literacy Volunteers of Franklin and Somerset Counties celebrated National Poetry Month on William Shakespeare's 449th birthday Tuesday. The celebration at the library included a cake, balloons, party hats and ...

High elevation balloon lands near Solon

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Thu, 25 Apr 2013 23:10:00 +0000

FARMINGTON — A high-elevation balloon launched Wednesday by sophomores in Doug Hodem's astrobiology class at Mt. Blue High School landed slightly north and west of Solon in Somerset County, Hodem said Thursday. The balloon launched from Prescott Field at the University of Maine...

UMF 150th anniversary celebration to include town, state

Ann Bryant, Staff Writer — Thu, 25 Apr 2013 23:07:00 +0000

FARMINGTON — As the birthplace of higher learning in the state, the University of Maine at Farmington plans to extend its 150th anniversary celebration into the community and across the state. The celebration will start in September and last an entire year, UMF President Kathryn Fost...

Board agrees to part-time work for Farmington's retiring wastewater superintendent

Ann Bryant, Staff Writer — Thu, 25 Apr 2013 22:15:00 +0000

FARMINGTON — With a vote of 4-1, selectmen agreed to allow Wastewater Superintendent Steve Moore to continue working part time under a new superintendent when he retires in July. Selectman Andrew Hufnagel opposed the idea that allows Moore to work three days a week, buy health insura...

Patient input sought by Franklin Memorial Hospital

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 22:15:00 +0000

FARMINGTON — Franklin Memorial Hospital is hosting two patient-centered focus groups on Wednesday, May 1, to gain insight on ways to improve access to health care for patients who are uninsured and underinsured. The focus groups will meet from 2 to 3:30 p.m. and from 3...

Sandy River erosion plan has only timber

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 21:55:00 +0000

FARMINGTON — A story published on Page B1 of Thursday's Franklin edition about Whittier Road should have said a plan preferred by the U.S. Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife would use only timber to fix erosion along the Sandy River. Incorrect information was reported.

Two injured in Route 4 crash in Jay

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Thu, 25 Apr 2013 19:25:00 +0000

JAY — Two men were injured Thursday morning when one man stopped his car to talk to a Water District employee repairing Route 4 in North Jay and a small truck rear-ended his car, which was pushed off the road and struck trees. Matthew Gaudet, 51, of Jay was traveling south and stoppe...

Proposed Livermore Falls ordinance would regulate property maintenance

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Thu, 25 Apr 2013 19:15:00 +0000

LIVERMORE FALLS — One of the ordinances residents will be asked to consider in June addresses property maintenance from the exterior to interior of buildings, including requiring habitable rooms to have insect screens on doors, windows and other outside openings. A public hearing on ...

Public hearing set on Livermore Falls town meeting warrant articles

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Thu, 25 Apr 2013 17:40:00 +0000

LIVERMORE FALLS — When voters head to the polls June 11, they will be asked if they favor leaving Androscoggin County and joining Franklin County. Selectmen will hold a public hearing at 6:30 p.m. Monday, April 29, at the Town Office on that article and 43 others on the warrant. ...

William Wegman speaker for UMF graduation

Staff report — Thu, 25 Apr 2013 15:35:00 +0000

William Wegman, pioneering video artist, conceptualist, photographer, painter and writer, will be the main speaker at the University of Maine at Farmington’s Commencement ceremonies held at 10:30 a.m. May 18 at an outdoor ceremony on the campus.

Franklin Savings launches Octagon House campaign

Staff report — Thu, 25 Apr 2013 01:49:00 +0000

FARMINGTON — Franklin Savings Bank’s Community Development Foundation has donated $25,000 to the Farmington Historical Society to launch its Octagon House capital campaign. The society is buying the 155-year-old brick house with plans to restore and revive its character.

RSU 73 applies for AmeriCorps volunteers

Eileen M. Adams, Special to the Sun Journal — Thu, 25 Apr 2013 01:10:22 +0000

LIVERMORE FALLS — The RSU 73 board approved a $1.8 million bond anticipation note Wednesday and were told of an application for AmeriCorps volunteers to serve the district. School directors approved the bond note, which would repay a previous one for $250,000 and ensure enough money ...

Natural gas line and other local issues topics at AVCOG general assembly

Ann Bryant, Staff Writer — Thu, 25 Apr 2013 01:00:16 +0000

JAY — A natural gas line extension in Franklin County was among the issues discussed at Androscoggin Valley Council of Government's Spring General Assembly at Mill St. Cafe on Wednesday. Area municipal leaders and representatives, and AVCOG staff gathered to hear status reports that ...

MVHS top students headed for the lab and theater

Eileen M. Adams, Special to the Sun Journal — Thu, 25 Apr 2013 00:20:00 +0000

RUMFORD — Mountain Valley High School 2013 valedictorian Garrett Carver and salutatorian Lexi Fryover have a unique status. They are the children of four teachers at the school. Neither of them believes that has been an advantage or disadvantage. “It’s no different...

Farmington still waiting on permit for Whittier Road repair

Ann Bryant, Staff Writer — Thu, 25 Apr 2013 00:10:00 +0000

FARMINGTON — The town still has no permit from the Federal Emergency Management Agency to fix the erosion problem along Sandy River that endangers a section of Whittier Road, Town Manager Richard Davis told selectmen on Tuesday. Although they'll participate in a review of the W...

Rangeley school budget approved; adult ed update given

Dale Hill, Special to Sun Journal — Thu, 25 Apr 2013 00:00:16 +0000

RANGELEY — The School Board approved a $3.4 million budget Tuesday night and was briefed on the adult education program. Discussion of the 2013-14 budget included debates on salary versus stipend for an athletic director; a teacher contract for a guidance counselor, who would have th...

WIlton students raise funds for animal shelter

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 23:55:00 +0000

WILTON — Mt. Blue Middle School seventh-graders Gavin Bridges' and Alec Donahue's philanthropy project is benefiting the Franklin County Animal Shelter. Both started volunteering there as part of their assignment, Gavin's father, Ben Bridges of Wilton, said. The two students ...

Students hosting supper to benefit food closet

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 23:47:00 +0000

FARMINGTON — Students at Mt. Blue Middle School are undertaking projects that benefit others. Several are holding a spaghetti dinner Saturday to benefit the Care and Share Food Closet in Farmington. The dinner is scheduled from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. April 27 at Trinity United Methodist C...

15th annual March for Violence-Free Communities in Farmington

Ann Bryant, Staff Writer — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 23:40:08 +0000

Members of SAVES and Safe Voices perform a dance called Break the Chains before the 15th annual March for Violence-Free Communities on Wednesday in Meetinghouse Park in Farmington. The dance was part of a flash mob at the University of Maine at Farmington in observance of Sexual Assault Awareness...

Students launch balloon to collect scientific data

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 20:05:00 +0000

FARMINGTON — Sarah Cummings led the countdown Wednesday among fellow students to let go of the high-elevation balloon and attached payloads and sensors at the University of Maine at Farmington's Prescott Field. They expected it to rise 30,000 meters. It didn't take long until it rose...

Jay hearing to consider proposed $6 million budget, fireworks ordinance

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 17:00:00 +0000

JAY — Selectmen will hold a public hearing Monday on a proposed $6 million municipal budget for 2013-14 and a proposed consumer fireworks ordinance. The hearing will begin at 6 p.m. Monday in the library at Spruce Mountain High School in Jay. The proposed spending plan is a $2...

Farmington woman begins 740-mile canoe journey from N.Y. to Maine

The Associated Press — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 10:03:00 +0000

OLD FORGE, N.Y. (AP) — There's still ice on some lakes and ponds but the first paddlers have begun making their way from Old Forge, N.Y., to Fort Kent, Maine. Traveling by canoe, Emma Carlson of Farmington, Maine, and Emily Rooney of Fairfax, Vt., launched Tuesday and plan to complet...

School directors continue budget review

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 01:50:00 +0000

FARMINGTON — RSU 9 directors continued review Tuesday of a proposed $29.38 million budget without factoring in state retirement for teachers and a $29.7 million budget that includes retirement money. Superintendent Mike Cormier told the board it could continue deliberations at its ne...

RSU 73 budget passes first test despite 'No' winning in 2 of 3 towns

Eileen M. Adams, Special to the Sun Journal — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 01:40:00 +0000

LIVERMORE FALLS — The RSU 73 budget of $18.58 million for 2013-14 was approved by voters Tuesday, 306-250. Jay passed it by a vote of 199-88, but the majority in Livermore Falls rejected it, 47-74, as did the majority in Livermore by a vote of 60-88. By a vote of 367-179, all ...

Livermore Falls board approves two site plans for businesses

Donna M. Perry — Tue, 23 Apr 2013 22:40:00 +0000

LIVERMORE FALLS — The Planning Board approved site plans for two businesses, one with conditions, Code Enforcement Officer James Butler Jr. said. The board made its decisions April 17. Philip Marin's application to open Northside Auto, a towing company and impound lot, at 12 C...

Chesterville town clerk retiring; open house planned

Ann Bryant — Tue, 23 Apr 2013 22:37:00 +0000

CHESTERVILLE — For the past 31 years, Town Clerk Pat Gordon has lived by seasons: tax season, hunting season, town meeting season and others. Soon she will begin a new phase in her life, one that will free her for travel and, best of all, "the opportunity to get outdoors," she said.

Candidates for Wilton selectmen, school board announced

Ann Bryant, Staff Writer — Tue, 23 Apr 2013 22:25:00 +0000

WILTON — Nomination papers have been returned for two selectmen's seats and one RSU 9 director, according to Town Clerk Diane Dunham. Selectman Scott Taylor is seeking re-election and is unopposed, she said. Selectman Russell Black is not running again. Raymond Lagasse and Tif...

Prescription Drug Take-Back Day planned for Saturday

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 22:10:00 +0000

FARMINGTON — Area police departments are participating in Saturday's statewide Prescription Drug Take-Back Day, held in conjunction with the Drug Enforcement Agency. The program gives the public another opportunity to prevent pill abuse and theft by ridding their homes of potentially...

Three foreclosed properties in Jay go to highest bidders

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Tue, 23 Apr 2013 17:05:00 +0000

JAY — The town of Jay has received numerous bids for three town-acquired properties. Selectmen authorized Town Manager Ruth Cushman on April 8 to award the properties to the highest bidders on April 22. Minimum bids were set to cover all the town's costs, including 2011 back t...

$4 million turbine destroyed in fire

Whit Richardson, Bangor Daily News — Tue, 23 Apr 2013 16:05:00 +0000

A fire destroyed a multimillion-dollar wind turbine at the Kibby Mountain wind farm in northern Franklin County, which has generated concern about the safety and reliability of turbines.

RSU 73 positions, selectmen's positions open

Donna M. Perry, Staff Writer — Tue, 23 Apr 2013 15:50:00 +0000

The list of candidates for offices in Jay, Livermore and Livermore Falls is growing, but no one has yet returned nomination papers for three of four seats on the RSU 73 board. Papers are due in the three town offices by the close of business hours May 2. Elections will be held in each town...

Annual march for violence-free communities Wednesday in Farmington

Staff Report — Tue, 23 Apr 2013 14:16:00 +0000

FARMINGTON — The 15th annual March for Violence-Free Communities begins at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 24, at the gazebo in Meeting House Park on Main Street. The event is hosted by SAVES, Franklin County’s Sexual Assault Prevention & Response Services. ...

This week's agenda

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 04:00:19 +0000

Tuesday Jay: RSU 73 budget vote, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., Town Office Livermore: RSU 73 budget vote, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., Town Office Livermore Falls: RSU 73 budget vote, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., Town Office Thursday Livermore Falls: RSU 73 board, 6 p.m., Central Office S...

Three Spruce Mountain High School students suspended

Eileen M. Adams, Special to the Sun Journal — Tue, 23 Apr 2013 04:00:19 +0000

LIVERMORE FALLS — The RSU 73 board unanimously suspended three Spruce Mountain High School students recently following action at three disciplinary hearings held on April 4 and April 11. Superintendent Robert Wall said a Spruce Mountain ...

Awareness and disaster preparedness training offered in Farmington

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 04:00:19 +0000

FARMINGTON — The Franklin County Sheriff’s Office and the National Sheriffs’ Association are sponsoring an All-Hazards Homeland Security Initiative Community Partnership and Awareness Training for Disaster Preparedness in Farmington. This unique training opportunity is de...

Franklin County arrest log

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 04:00:00 +0000

FARMINGTON — The following were recently booked at the Franklin County Detention Center: * Michael Webber, 30, Vienna, violating condition of release, operating after suspension, April 22, $500 cash bail, Farmington Police Department. * Timothy Darnell, 35, Freeman Township, d...

Four students arrested for providing place to consume

Ann Bryant, Staff Writer — Tue, 23 Apr 2013 02:30:08 +0000

FARMINGTON — Four students at the University of Maine at Farmington were arrested on a charge of furnishing a place for minors to consume alcohol Friday after police were called to a loud party on Middle Street. Around 10:30 p.m., police arrived at 109 Middle St. to hear loud music f...

New Vineyard residents question Barker Road project

Ann Bryant, Staff Writer — Tue, 23 Apr 2013 02:30:08 +0000

NEW VINEYARD — Selectmen listened for more than an hour Monday to ideas and questions posed by about 25 townspeople on rebuilding a portion of Barker Road. The board opted to stay with what voters had decided at the March town meeting unless someone presents a petition with 25 signat...

Poetry reading held on Shakespeare's 449th birthday

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 02:30:08 +0000

FARMINGTON — A poetry celebration hosted by Literacy Volunteers of Franklin and Somerset Counties and the Farmington Public Library starts at 7 p.m. Tuesday, April 23, at the library. Residents are welcome to participate in an interactive poetry reading featuring the winners of...

Public water wellhead ordinance topic of hearing in Farmington

Ann Bryant, Staff Writer — Tue, 23 Apr 2013 01:00:14 +0000

FARMINGTON — Selectmen will listen to comments about a proposed public wellhead protection ordinance during a hearing on Tuesday, April 23. The board meeting begins at 6:30 p.m. at the Municipal Building in an executive session with legal counsel concerning the rights and duties of t...

Deputy questions man outside abandoned home

Ann Bryant, Staff Writer — Tue, 23 Apr 2013 00:46:00 +0000

PHILLIPS — Police may have thwarted a burglary attempt Saturday while patrolling Route 142. Deputy Sandy Burke noticed a man at the door of an abandoned home as he traveled the road, according to Lt. David Rackliffe of the Franklin County Sheriff's Department. Burke went back to spea...

Earth Day observed at UMF with balloon demonstration

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 00:00:00 +0000

University of Maine at Farmington geology professor Julia Daly's climate change class observed Earth Day by showing how the average person in the U.S. emits enough carbon dioxide every hour to inflate 200 balloons.

Mt. Blue track team observes Earth Day by picking up trash

Ann Bryant, Staff Writer — Mon, 22 Apr 2013 23:52:00 +0000

Members of Mt. Blue High School's track team pick up trash along Seamon Road in Farmington on Monday in observance of Earth Day. From left are Dan Lesko, Steven Minns, Sam McIntosh and Tim Meservier. Minns found a frog under the tarp. About 40 students from the team planned to participate, coach ...

Franklin County arrest log

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 23:35:00 +0000

FARMINGTON — The following arrests were recently logged at Franklin County Detention Center: Ellen R. Bowman, 63, Readfield, contempt order, April 19, no bail listed, University of Maine at Farmington police. Brian Nolan, 20, Topsham, furnishing a place for minors to consume a...

Trucker charged with threatening other drivers with pipe

Ann Bryant, Staff Writer — Mon, 22 Apr 2013 15:35:00 +0000

FARMINGTON — A Temple man who threatened to hit truckers with a metal pipe at Irving's Big Stop on Sunday night was charged with criminal threatening with a dangerous weapon, according to a police report. Truck driver Todd Dalrymple, 27, pulled into the Route 4 business and found the...

Maine Audubon holding Stream-Smart workshop

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 04:00:00 +0000

FARMINGTON — Maine Audubon is hosting a workshop Thursday in Farmington to help municipal employees, contractors, land trusts, landowners and other groups improve stream crossings to maintain and restore the habitat and economic values of Maine’s tributaries....

Today's agenda

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 03:50:21 +0000

Franklin NEW VINEYARD: Selectmen, 6 p.m., Town Office WILTON: Selectmen, noon, Town Office Oxford Hills HEBRON: Public hearing, 6:45 p.m., Town Office WOODSTOCK: SAD 44 Board of Directors, 6:30 p.m., Woodstock Elementary School River Valley DIXFIEL...

Franklin County arrest log

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 03:50:21 +0000

FARMINGTON — The following arrests were recently logged at Franklin County Detention Center: * Bryan Legere, 22, Waterville, probation revocation, domestic violence assault, April 17, no bail listed, Franklin County Sheriff's Department. * Richard L. Gardner, 49, Jay, domestic...

North Chesterville Baptist Church gets some help from Tibbetts family

Ann Bryant, Staff Writer — Mon, 22 Apr 2013 03:50:21 +0000

CHESTERVILLE — The floor sagged six inches. The walls and ceiling were cracked and ready to fall before the Tibbetts family spent April's school vacation week working on the North Chesterville Baptist Church. For Caroline Tibbetts, letting the 200-year-old church, the church of the f...

Workers: 'Reign of terror' at Maine CDC

Lindsay Tice, Staff Writer — Sun, 21 Apr 2013 04:00:00 +0000

But others claim managers are 'ethical' and 'professional.'