PHOTO: The finishing touch
Tyler Fisher, 12, of Winslow adding the final touch on the roof at Mini Fenway, in Oakland. (photo by Central Maine Photography)
Oak Grove stained glass restored and replaced
The Oak Grove School Foundation and the Friends of the River Meeting House are pleased to announce the return of two large stained glass windows. They were removed from the historic Oak Grove Chapel/River Meeting House, in Vassalboro, in March for repairs. The windows were installed around 1895, and over the years, gravity, old lead and the weight of the glass caused serious buckling and gaps between some of the glass pieces.
Vintage Glass Works of Gardiner brought both windows to their shop, replaced broken glass, built new frames, cleaned and reinstalled the approximately 130-year-old windows, preserving both their historical and their artistic value.
The Chapel will be open to the public during Vassalboro days if anyone would like to stop by and admire the craftsmanship of these beautiful windows.
OPINIONS: Don’t let them give away old Rte. 202
by Carrol White
China resident
The people of China, and indeed all citizens of Maine, should be alarmed: the Town of China is considering giving away the abandoned section of Old Route 202 “free and clear” to The Landing, LLC. But here is the truth the town cannot ignore – China does not own this road and therefore has no right to give it away.
Let’s remember the history. In 1994, the Town of China voted to discontinue this section of Route 202. By law, when a town discontinues a road, ownership of the land underneath it reverts to the abutting property owners. In this case, those abutters are The Landing, LLC, on one side and China Lake on the other.
And here’s the key: because China Lake is a Great Pond, its lakebed – including the portion under the old road – belongs not to the town, but to the People of Maine, managed by the Bureau of Parks and Lands. The Town of China is not the landowner here. China Lake is not private land. It is a Great Pond, defined by Title 1, §2 as any natural body of water larger than 10 acres (China Lake is more than 3,800 acres). As Title 12, §1862 states, “All great ponds are public reserved lands,” held in trust for the People of Maine.
At the same time, when the road was discontinued, the town wisely chose to retain a public right-of-way over the roadway. That guarantees residents and visitors may continue to use it. The town has no obligation to maintain the road, but the public’s right to travel it is protected.
So let’s be absolutely clear: the town has no ownership of the old Route 202 strip. It cannot give away what it does not own. Any attempt to hand this property “free and clear” to The Landing, LLC would not only undermine public rights but would also directly contradict the facts of law.
This is not a small matter. If the town proceeds, it sets a dangerous precedent: public easements and public trust lands could be erased by a vote or a handshake deal. That is how public access is quietly lost – not in one grand gesture, but in small, bureaucratic giveaways.
The people of China must act now and attend the special town meeting that is scheduled by the selectmen to be held on Monday August 25, 2025, at 6, p.m., at the town office to vote on this matter. Speak out. Demand that the public easement be respected and protected. Remind town officials that their job is to safeguard the community’s rights, not to dispose of land they do not own.
Old Route 202 belongs, in part, to the abutters – but the right to use it belongs to all of us. The Town of China has no authority to strip away those rights or to hand public trust property to private owners. If we remain silent, we risk losing something that can never be reclaimed. If we stand together, we can ensure that Old Route 202 remains open, public, and protected for generations to come.
The town cannot give away what belongs to the people. It’s time for the people to make that clear. I urge you all to attend the meeting and vote against the actions the town is trying to take. Again, please vote on August 25, 2025, at 6 p.m., at the town office.
Army Reserve ambassador for Maine receives public service decoration
U.S. Army Reserve Ambassador Jeffrey Morton, right, of Maine receives the Patriotic Public Service Award July 17 during an annual training workshop. The award was presented by Maj. Gen. Kris A. Belanger, former 99th RD commanding general. U.S. Army photo by Sal Ottaviano, 99th RD Public Affairs
U.S. Army Reserve Ambassador Jeffrey Morton, of Augusta, received the Patriotic Public Service Award July 17 during an annual training workshop held at 99th Readiness Division headquarters, at Fort Dix, New Jersey.
The award was presented by Maj. Gen. Kris A. Belanger, former 99th RD commanding general.
Morton retired from military service with over 38 years enlisted and commissioned service. Ambassador Morton’s final assignment was as faculty at the Army War College office for International Students where he was co-developer of the Valley Forge Staff ride. Commissioned a Cavalry Officer, Morton transferred to Engineer where he held positions from Platoon leader to Brigade Command to include combat service in Afghanistan from 2006 to 2007 as Engineer Brigade Operations Officer.
Last mobilized in 2017 in support of OEF, Morton remains active in professional, branch, and veterans’ organizations. Joint Qualified, Morton attended and was on the faculty of the Command and General Staff College and is a graduate of the Army War College and Joint Staff College’s Joint and Combined Warfare Course.
The Army Reserve Ambassador Program was established in 1998 to promote awareness of the Army Reserve and to serve as a vital bridge in the nation’s states/communities to further educate and garner support for the Army Reserve. Ambassadors are Special Government Employees who represent the Chief of the Army Reserve without salary, wages or related benefits.
Ambassadors provide Community Outreach assistance to Army Reserve members/families, other military personnel/families as needed.
Bruce Bottiglierie, co-founder of Winslow Community cupboard resigns
Bruce Bottiglierie, who co-founded Winslow Community Cupboard food pantry in early 2020 and who has directed its service and growth ever since, has announced his resignation as Operations Manager, effective August 6, 2025.
In an email sent to local Winslow Community Cupboard volunteers and to staff members at Good Shepherd Food Bank and MaineGeneral Health, Mr. Bottiglierie wrote: “I’m stepping down due to irreconcilable differences [regarding] the future of the pantry …. It’s been a great five-plus-years creating this amazing program to feed families throughout Maine.”
In November 2020, Mr. Bottiglierie was named one of 12 “Mainers to Be Thankful For” in a special Thanksgiving edition of the Portland Press Herald / Morning Sentinel / Kennebec Journal. Under his leadership, Winslow Community Cupboard grew from serving 24 families when it first opened to now serving as many as 300 on its service days.
How to Donate
Those who would like to donate to Winslow Community Cupboard food pantry may do so by sending a check payable to Winslow Community Cupboard, to 26 Lithgow St., Winslow, ME 04901, or by visiting WCCPantry.com and clicking on the white “Donate” button.
For more information please contact Winslow Community Cupboard at (207) 616-0076 or email WinslowCupboard@Gmail.com.
Webber Pond water quality update (August 14, 2025)
This photo is from July 28, 2024. It is being shared so you know what to look for. If you see this kind of persistent scum, please report it to the water quality committee of the Webber Pond Association, with photos, please, so they can determine if a toxin test is needed. Notify Susan Traylor at birchpt@aol.com. (contributed photo)
Webber water quality update, as of August 9, shows the good news to be that this year’s water quality has been better than last year’s. The August 4 reading of 1.9m/6.2′, is the first time we have been below the 2m that signifies an algae bloom. Last year the reading this week was 0.79m/2.6′, which is a severe algae bloom.
Last year we saw light green scums as early as June 3, but they tended to dissipate after a few hours, These dissipating scums continued through the end of July, when they started to last.
We have only started to see dissipating scums this week.
Strangely, part of the reason for better water clarity this year is the drought, since rain causes runoff, which increases phosphorus in the water, which feeds algae and cyanobacteria. The higher temps in the 90s forecast for this past week could offset that.
Please let the water quality committee know if you have any questions. You can contact Susan Traylor at birchpt@aol.com.
EVENTS: CPL Andrew L. Hutchins Memorial ride honors fallen hero
CPL. Andrew L. Hutchins Memorial Ride participants at the start location with Travis Mills. (contributed photo)
On August 2, riders from across the region gathered to honor the life and sacrifice of Corporal Andrew L. Hutchins with a powerful 61-mile memorial ride that spanned one hour and 37 minutes.
Now in its second year, the CPL Andrew L. Hutchins Memorial Ride brings together community members, veterans, families, and supporters to remember a local hero who gave his life in service to his country. The ride began at Route 202 Pizza & Grille and followed a scenic route through northern Maine, ending at Carrabec High School, in North Anson, where participants paused to reflect and celebrate Andrew’s legacy.
“One of our core goals is helping people realize that anyone can find a way to recognize a Gold Star family in their own community. We are just three individuals who had an idea – and turned it into something meaningful,” Said the ride organizers, “And if you’re feeling that nudge to start something in your own community, we’re here to tell you: it’s possible. If you’re someone who’s looking to get something going, let us know! We would love to help out.”
Proceeds from this event went to the Travis Mills Foundation, ensuring his spirit of service continues to live on.
To learn more about the CPL Andrew L. Hutchins Memorial Ride, upcoming events, or how to get involved, visit us on Facebook at CPL. Andrew L. Hutchins Memorial Ride.
EVENTS: Cassidy’s birthday book drive promotes reading
Jolene Raymond checks out the books in the ShineOnCass Lending Library at Kennebec Valley YMCA, in Augusta, where free books are available to YMCA member families and visitors. (contributed photo)
ShineOnCass Foundation invites the community to join “Cassidy’s Birthday Board Book Drive” to help shine a light on childhood literacy and inspire early reading. The ShineOnCass Foundation, named and created in memory of Cassidy Charette, will collect children’s board books during the month of August to help fill the shelves of ShineOnCass Lending Libraries and local Little Free Libraries. Volunteers will deliver donated books on what would be Cassidy’s 28th birthday on August 31.
New and gently used board books can be donated all month at Camden National Bank at 51 Main Street in Oakland, or at 258 Kennedy Memorial Drive in Waterville. Cassidy, a 17-year-old Oakland resident who died in a hayride accident in 2014, was an avid reader, youth mentor, and a lifelong community volunteer.
This year’s drive is specifically collecting board books for people to read to babies and toddlers, specifically designed with thick, durable cardboard pages and bright illustrations with simple but engaging text.
“Reading to children in their earliest years – even before they can speak – builds a foundation for language, learning, emotional connection, and begins a positive association with reading,” said Monica Charette, Cassidy’s mother and executive director for ShineOnCass. “When we read aloud to babies and toddlers, we’re not just telling stories; we’re sparking curiosity, shaping developing brains, and planting the seed for lifelong readers.”
Books for older readers will also be distributed by the Foundation. A Little Free Library is a “take a book, share a book” free book exchange in communities nationally and internationally. Thousands of Little Free Libraries, owned and supported by volunteer stewards, are in communities in over 120 countries. Dozens of Little Free Libraries are in central Maine, including ShineOnCass Lending Libraries for children at the Alfond Youth and Community Center, in Waterville, and at Kennebec Valley YMCA, in Augusta.
“Early reading is one of the most powerful tools we have to support a child’s development,” Charette said. “Cassidy was an impassioned reader and an advocate for children. Sharing books is the perfect way to celebrate the day she was born. “
For more information about Cassidy’s Birthday Board Book Drive or the ShineOnCass Foundation, visit shineoncass.org.
“Made in China” exhibition brings over 200 visitors
Lite Zhang
The China Historical Society is pleased to announce the successful close of “Made in China,” a vibrant art exhibition celebrating the creative life of China, Maine, and beyond. Held at the barn at 16 Jones Road, the show opened with a public reception on August 7, 2025, followed by an additional viewing on August 9.
With an estimated audience of more than 200 visitors, the exhibition featured 89 works of art spanning nearly two centuries – from the 1800s to 2025. Guests enjoyed refreshments while exploring a rich diversity of artistic styles and mediums, from historical pieces to contemporary works.
The event included contributions from many artists well-known to residents for their long and distinguished careers, such as Howard Comfort, Pauline Turner, Chris Bennett, Clara Bryant, and Marilyn Dwelley. Artist Lite Zhang, born in China (the country) and currently living in Baltimore, Maryland, created a site-specific land piece titled “Made in China” during a nine-week residency at Skowhegan’s School of Painting and Scupture Summer Program. It was created recently and can still be viewed in a nearby field off Jones Road.
The response was overwhelmingly enthusiastic. Many participating artists and art aficionados expressed interest in making “Made in China” an annual tradition. Exhibition organizer Geoff Hargadon is already planning a similar show for next year, with the goal of promoting it early and encourage participation among artists who were unable to present their work this year.
Scott McCormac, of the China Historical Society, expressed great satisfaction with both the attendance and the diversity of artistic representation in the show, adding “It reflected the vibrant and evolving creative spirit of the community.”
“Made in China” demonstrated not only the depth of artistic talent connected to China, Maine, but also the value of art in fostering community engagement and dialogue.
For additional information about Made in China 2026, please contact Scott McCormac, China Historical Society, (207) 592-0209 or Geof Hargadon, (617) 480-2994.
“Made in China” crafted by Lite Zhang for the exhibition.
Some of the artwork on display by local artists.
Long time China business owner Carl Farris dies at 79
CHINA – Carl Farris, 79, passed away on Wednesday, August 6, 2025, following a long battle with MS. He was born in Waterville, June 6, 1946, His parents were Merlon and Yvonne Dosie Farris, of China.
He attended China schools and Winslow High School. He grew up on and helping the family on the farm on Pleasant View Ridge, in China, milking cows, haying the fields and cleaning out the barns. He started working for Parmenter’s in the chicken business across the road at age 15, collecting eggs and other jobs on their farm. At 17 he started working for Ron Bickford Construction building chicken houses. For the first two years he just carried lumber but at about age 19 they gave him a hammer, and he was off and running as a carpenter and it set the course for rest of his life.
In 1967 when he was 21, he was drafted into the U.S. Army. He said the three-year stint in the military changed his life forever. He was first sent to Fort Jackson, in South Carolina, and then to Fort Knox, Kentucky. He had one month off at home before being sent to Xuan Loe, Vietnam, with the rank of specialist, and right into the rice paddies. He and his group then went to Saigon, where he was wounded by a rocket-propelled grenade that struck the vehicle he was driving. The tank commander and one gunner were killed. He was flown by chopper to a hospital for two weeks with shrapnel in his chest.
When he was released from the hospital, he was sent to the Ho Bo woods, in Binh Durong Province. He was again driving when land mines exploded all around them. He was again flown by chopper to a hospital to recover but at the time he was only 15 days from finishing his tour of duty so he returned to base camp. He received two Purple Hearts for being wounded twice. As most Vietnam veterans, he struggled with the reason for the fighting and the reception they received upon their return, but he proudly wore his Vietnam Veterans hat. On July 1, 1972, he married Phyllis Lucas, in Readfield, and they raised their two daughters in his grandparents’ home.
After Vietnam he started working in the construction business with his brother Earl until 1976 when he and Phyllis started their own construction company. He built hundreds of buildings including barns, houses, business buildings, garages, etc., as a contractor. In 1978 they build their first spec house. He began to dream about opening a lumber yard in China and along with Phyllis realized that dream and opened the lumber business September 14, 1987. They had a full-service lumber business but expanded into other areas, a door shop, a truss shop building trusses especially for garages, they began a metal roofing business and in the middle of that a large bargain barn store. As the business grew they built all of the necessary 40,000 square foot lumber barns and other buildings that were needed for the expanding business. Carl worked seven days a week even after being debilitated with his multiple sclerosis and being confined to a motorized chair. He learned to work hard by growing up on a dairy farm. Several of his employees have been with the business almost from the beginning. He had the ability to keep all kinds of projects and deals in his head. He was always interested in his customers and was generous with his advice from the things he learned from the many years of experience in the construction business. He attributed the success of the business to his dedicated wife and hardworking and loyal employees.
Carl was predeceased by his parents.
He is survived by his wife Phyllis; his daughters Lindsay Weirich and husband Jayson, and Bryann Farris and husband Ronald Mattingly; his grandchildren Jack, Lila, Maizy, and Mason; his brothers Nelson and Sharon Farris and Earl and Carol Farris as well as their families.
There are no public visiting hours. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, August 16, at 10 a.m., at the Sukeforth Center China Lake Camp and Conference Center, 255 Neck Road, China, ME. Burial will be at a later date.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Plummer Funeral Home, 16 Pleasant St., Augusta, ME.
Condolences, stories and photos may be shared at www.plummerfh.com.