Regular readers of the BDN will recall the recent stories of the February fire that consumed the home of James “Jammey” and Lillian Legassey of Millinocket.

The couple lost everything in that blaze, including their two beloved cats.

I have been told the Legasseys are living in a place provided for them while they decide what their future holds.

In the meantime, friends, family and community members are doing what they can to help by holding a benefit turkey supper for the Legasseys from 4 to 6 p.m. Wednesday, March 21, at St. Martin’s Church Hall on Colby Street in Millinocket.

Admission will be by donation, and the benefit will include a pie sale and silent auction.

If you cannot attend but would like to help the Legasseys recover from this tragic situation, donations are being accepted in their name at Key Bank, 79 Central St., Millinocket 04462.

Caroline Tully told me that you still have the opportunity to attend the 2007 New England Spring Flower Show Tuesday, March 20, at the Bayside Expo Center in Boston.

“If there are any last-minute decision-makers out there” who would like a seat on one of the two buses making the trip, she said to give her a call at 945-3807.

The trip cost is $70, and proceeds benefit the work of the host Bangor Garden Club.

The bus leaves from Bangor and makes stops in Newport and Waterville.

The eighth annual Bob Gagnon Dinner-Auction begins at 5 p.m. Friday, April 13, at the Rockland Elks Lodge on Rankin Street in Rockland.

Admission is $8 for adults and $4 for children under 12, for a steamship roast or chicken dinner.

Committee members are asking people who work in arts and crafts to donate an item for the auction, which will be conducted by Bruce Gamage Jr.

Marlene Hall and the Whole Lot of Brass Band will provide entertainment for the event that raises funds to provide gasoline certificates for cancer patients traveling to and from treatment.

Assisted by the Maine Lobster Festival and Cancer Care Center at Penobscot Bay Medical Center in Rockport, the fund has established a new family room for cancer patients and their families, and its committee is exploring options for providing transportation for those requiring treatment outside Knox County.

For more information about services of this fund, to purchase a ticket, contribute an item for the auction or have it picked up, call Brenda Gagnon, 594-4259, or Tish Gagnon, 596-1030.

Jennifer Brooks of Penquis Community Action Program in Bangor has announced that the organization is seeking nominations for its Family Friendly Employer Award to be presented in June at the annual Economic Prosperity for Everyone Conference.

The nomination deadline is Tuesday, April 17.

A family-friendly employer assists staff in successfully managing family and personal commitment with workplace responsibilities.

Qualifying employers are those doing business in Penobscot, Piscataquis and Knox counties.

To nominate a family-friendly business, call Brooks at 973-3558 or (800) 215-4942, or email jbrooks@penquiscap.org.

Most Mainers probably will remember Barbara McKernan, who was 86 when she died this week, as one of their favorite political mothers.

We who call Bangor home will remember her as one of our community treasures.

Barbara was not only a wonderful mother and thoughtful friend, but also a successful businesswoman, outstanding community volunteer, dedicated civic leader and one of the most politically-astute people I have ever known.

When asked a question, she either knew, or found, the answer.

When faced with a problem, she sought the solution that would be best for all.

With equal grace and dignity, Barbara McKernan experienced some of life’s greatest joys and tragedies, and she was quick to share her happiness, or her concern, with others who found themselves in similar situations.

One of my fondest recollections of Barbara was the advice she gave me when I asked how she, widowed with teenagers as was I, managed to place herself in the most positive physical light when discussing those very serious life issues with children who towered over her, as did mine.

Barbara didn’t hesitate one second with her answer.

She pursed her lips, got that twinkle in her eye, and replied, “Heck, Joni. That’s easy.

“First you sit ’em down.

“Then you stand up!”

It was a privilege and honor to know her, and I extend my sincerest condolences to her family and close friends.

Joni Averill, Bangor Daily News, P.O. Box 1329, Bangor 04402; 990-8288.