Since first joining the Farmington Police Department in 1947, Chief Worster has enjoyed over three decades in the field of law enforcement.
Chief Worster worked under the leadership of Chief Clough until 1949, and went on to become Chief of Police in 1960.
When talking with Chief Worster, it's easy to see that he not only listens to, but also respects the people in Farmington. But even after 36 years on the Police Force, Chief Worster doesn't think of his job as a chore, but considers it a way of life.
After being asked to share his thoughts on Farmington, Chief Worster replied, "The town of Farmington is growing rapidly. We're fortunate to have such a fine town with so many people that support this Police Department.”
Both past and present members of the Farmington Volunteer Fire Department were recently honored at the Department's Annual Awards and Recognition Dinner, held at the fire station. Over 75 people turned out for the event, which began with a cocktail hour at 6 p.m. and a roast beef supper following at 7 p.m.
On behalf of the V.F.W., George and Velma Easton presented the Department with an American Flag, which was accepted by Chief Rit Moulton and Clark Hackett.
After dinner, Deputy Chief Plante took a few minutes to speak of a half credit course which he instructs at the high school. This twice-a-week course trains students in the fire prevention field. He expressed his hope that these students would be able to one day join the fire department. He also went on to name three people currently on the Department' s training list - Tony Laurich, Paul Lanza, and Dana Ricker Capt. McGuigan later explained that these three people are undergoing a series of tests to help insure they qualify to become fire fighters. As he put it, "Because fire fighting is said to be one of the most dangerous occupations in the world, you can't just walk in off the street and become a fire fLghter. You need to pass physical tests and undergo hours of training before qualifying".
Also during the evening, State Forest Ranger, Al Grimes, (perhaps better known as Smokey the Bear) awarded Carlton Thomas with a certificate for 20 years as a Deputy Forest Fire Warden. Doug Houston, Vicki Bemis and Martin Stanley all received their badges, making them official members of the fire department. Ms. Bemis also holds the honor of being the first woman on Farmington's Fire Department. Plaques were given to all of this year's retirees, even though two did not have enough years with the Department to become honorary members. Both Chief Moulton and Deputy Chief Plante passed out plaques to Percy Day, for five years of service, Lyle Doughty, for seven years, John Fitch for twelve years, and Peter Dickie; for twenty-eight years. When Mr. Fitch and Mr. Dickie were asked to return to the podium, Mr. Fitch jokingly asked, "Why, do you want these plaques back?", which was answered by a thundering of laughter and applause. But once there,both men were presented with gold badges, making them honorary members of the Department.
At this point, the supper formally ended, but guests were invited to stay and mingle with the crowd. Needless to say, everyone seemed to have a great time, and next year's dinner is being eagerly anticipated.
A new business has opened in Farmington that teaches new skills, offers materials and supplies, helpful advice, and handmade finished products for sale.
Candy Lee, a former school teacher has opened The Cobble Shop at 16 South Main Street. She took a quilting course eight years ago and has been at it ever since.
Offered as classes at The Cobble Shop are: quilting cut and pierce lamp shades, chair caning, and basket weaving. The reasonable fee for these classes includes materials.