The Morning Sentinel

July 29

Inmates lend a hand for county's Family Day

By Betty Adams badams@centralmaine.com
Staff Writer

AUGUSTA -- The mouth-watering smell of grilling hamburger, Boca burger and chicken surrounded the county building for several hours Wednesday as employees celebrated Family Day.

Staff brought children, grandchildren and spouses to the picnic on the front lawn of the Kennebec County Government Center on State Street.

A half dozen inmates from the jail next door erected a banner over the front door and strung colorful flags across the front of the building and walkway. As food came off the grill, they relocated some long tables to shadier spots under trees.

The barbecue also served as a wellness fair; Information from the county's health care providers, employee assistance program, and workers' compensation preferred provider was available at outdoor tables.

Kennebec County employs 180 people, according to County Administrator Robert Devlin.

Betty Gabriel, deputy registrar of deeds, sat with her granddaughter, Melissa Mann, who joined her for lunch. They were awaiting the arrival of seven of Gabriel's coworkers.

Gabriel, who is on the county wellness committee, said the event helps bring the employees together and provides an introduction to wellness and healthful eating habits.

"We learn how to moderate and portion control," Mann said.

Still, the two planned to eschew the Boca burgers -- a meat-free burger -- in favor of beef burgers.

"We eat chicken a lot at home," Gabriel said.

Sheriff Randall Liberty said about 140 employees work in the corrections and law enforcement fields. Many deputies and correctional officers were there in uniform, some with family members.

"My focus and concern for the staff is obesity and tobacco cessation," Liberty said.

Terry York, assistant county administrator and human resources manager, serves as chairman of the wellness committee. She said the family day started in 2004.

York's two granddaughters joined her for the meal.

Lt. Marsha Alexander, assistant jail administrator, had a half of Boca burger left on her plate. She decided to try her own vegetarian patty after sampling another.

"I'm a slow eater," she said. "I like to chat."

Betty Adams -- 621-5631

badams@centralmaine.com