March 9, 1994

Philip Daszuta of Westbrook placed the only bid for the Marean House, a historic building on Route 25 in Standish. His bid of $62,100 is $100 more than the town paid for the building three years ago. The Building Committee considered using the land for a town hall expansion but the Town Council killed a plan to tear down and remove the building last year after residents objected. It is believed that Dazsuta, who could not be reached for comment, may want to use the house for a bed and breakfast.

Gorham Town Councilor Phillip Dugas told the council at the March 1 meeting that he was going to request that the stipend for councilors be increased to $1,500 for five councilors, $1,600 for vice chairman and $1,700 for chairman. Councilors now are paid $1,200. Since the raise would be an ordinance change, there will have to be a public hearing.

Ten couples were honored Feb. 13 as part of the World Marriage Day celebration at St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church, Westbrook. Those celebrating were Albert and Marion Chretien, Philip and Margery Smith and Stanley and Mildred Zelinsky, 50 years; Richard and Nancy Plaisted, 35 years; David and Debbie Walsh, 25 years; Dennis and Nedra Connolly and Donald and Kathleen Smith, 20 years; Paul and Leslie Cormier and John and Donna Testa, 15 years; and Warren and Kathi Foye, five years.

March 10, 2004

The Warren Memorial Foundation plans to cut a theater program and hours at the Warren Library on Main Street in Westbrook after a multi-million-dollar renovation and low investment returns cut into its operating budget. Library Director Anastasia Weigle, who has been with the library since 1995, also announced she is resigning in what she called a “very amicable” break from the board. Bruce Saunders, president of the foundation board, said it is reviewing “its total mission to more completely serve the citizens of Westbrook and to maintain the Warren Memorial Library.”

Gorham School Superintendent Michael Moore is retiring next month, citing pending changes in the Maine State Retirement System that would keep him from finding another education job while still collecting retirement benefits. He will stay on until April 30. Moore is in his fifth year as superintendent. “It’s unfortunate. He is a superb superintendent and an excellent leader,” said Marie South, who chairs the School Committee. “This is a direct result of the pending changes in the retirement system – nothing more.”

Chicky’s Fine Diner will open later this spring in the downtown Westbrook site that formerly housed Cornerstone Restaurant. Co-owners Mat “Chicky” Staples and Blake Smithson say their diner will offer more upscale meals. “We’re working a creative diner concept,” said Smithson. “Taking classic American foods and putting a twist on them.” But they plan on keeping the prices affordable.

Jeanne Rielly, Brent Emery and Bernard Wall are winners of the Westbrook Chamber of Commerce 2003 Community Service Awards. Rielly, a volunteer at the Westbrook Food Pantry, won in the outstanding adult category. Emery, a Westbrook High School student, won in the youth category. Wall, a veterinarian, won in the outstanding life category. Rookies, a Main Street restaurant, won the in outstanding business category. Presumpscot Commons, the senior housing in the old high school, won in the outstanding project category.

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