James Fossa Jr. of Waterville gave the nonprofit organization the Fossa Building, which once housed his family's general store.

James Fossa Jr. represented the third generation to run the business before it was sold in 1984. The building remained under the family's ownership and has been vacant for several years.

"We are so thankful for the generosity of the Fossa family," Judy Craig, president of the corporation, said Friday. "We hope we can do justice to the family history in continuing on with a nice business in the same location."

Craig said corporation members have had interest in acquiring the building for some time because of its visibility from Route 7.

The Main Street building is valued at about $50,000, but needs extensive repair, according to Craig. She hopes the corporation can get a grant to help renovate the building, which could be used as a business incubator or be sold to a business that is opening, relocating or expanding.

"We'd entertain any good proposals providing they have a good business plan and financing backing," Craig said.

Craig said the corporation, which is not funded by the town, needs an office meeting room, and the second floor of the building would work well for that purpose. Other officers of the corporation including David Pearson, vice president; Courtney Brown, secretary; Dean Thompson, treasurer; and Lois Field, assistant treasurer.

Anyone who wants more information about the Fossa Building or the corporation can call Craig at 924-3067.
"This content originally appeared as a copyrighted article in the Sunday, July 22, 2007 edition of the Bangor Daily NEWS and is used here with permission."