China TIF committee members get update on causeway, other projects

The causeway bridge update by Joe McLean, from Wright-Pierce Engineers, was intended as part of a public information session. (Contributed photo)

by Mary Grow

China’s TIF (Tax Increment Financing) Committee members got an update on the causeway and other projects and on internal application forms and heard more fund requests at their May 7 meeting.

The causeway bridge update by Joe McLean, from Wright-Pierce Engineers, was intended as part of a public information session, but only people who had business with the committee attended the meeting.

The causeway project starts with replacing the current bridge at the head of China Lake’s east basin. Future plans include making more room for recreational use east of the bridge, including additional parking. McLean had an artist’s rendering with a bigger boat ramp and large new areas of concrete north of the causeway and some on the lake side.

McLean showed plans for a new bridge that will be close to 50 feet wide, with a wider two-way lane for vehicles, a 10-foot pedestrian way on the lake side and an eight-foot space on the muldoon (north) side for ATVs and snowmobiles.

The bridge will be enough higher than the current one to let canoes and kayaks pass under it.

Working in coordination with the state Department of Environmental Protection and the federal Army Corps of Engineers, McLean expects to have needed permits within the next two months. Meanwhile, he said, Wright-Pierce is ready to seek bids on the work, which is scheduled to be done in October and November of this year, during China Lake’s fall drawdown.

McLean said Maine Department of Transportation officials told him the Causeway Road speed limit is 45 miles an hour – left over, people suggested, from the days when Routes 202 and 9 went across the causeway and through China Village. The bridge is therefore being designed to safely accommodate pedestrians, recreational vehicles and 45-mile-an-hour traffic.

The MDOT might do a speed study, McLean said, and the study might result in a lower speed limit, especially if it showed that most traffic moves at less than 45 miles an hour. Several people endorsed a lower limit.

TIF Committee members voted unanimously to start studying the proposed next phase of the project, which includes parking, the boat launch and reconfiguring the shoreline. They hope to make enough progress by late September to know whether future plans will require any changes in the bridge plan.

In other business, Christopher Hahn, chairman of the China for a Lifetime Committee, reported that the committee is working on improving communication within the town, especially to and from the town office.

Landis Hudson from Maine Rivers said the project to restore alewife access to China Lake is proceeding, with one of the Outlet Stream dams removed, a second to be removed in 2019 and fishways planned at the others.

Neither Hahn nor Hudson asked for TIF funds. Committee members did hear two fund requests, one indefinite and one with a preliminary price tag.

Robert O’Connor and Tod Detre of the Broadband Committee are still exploring ways to expand and improve internet access in town. They are considering various alternatives, including one that would require one or two more telecommunications towers. TIF Committee Chairman Amber McAllister asked them to develop a proposal with a cost estimate.

Anita Smith repeated her request for funds for a building in the China School Forest behind China Primary School. Local contractor Blane Casey designed a four-season center for storage, programs and classes, at an estimated cost of $270,000.

McAllister asked for other, less costly designs and whether grant money could supplement town funds.

The TIF Committee does not yet have an application form for people seeking funds. Committee members agreed they need one.

Also lacking is an application form for the planned Revolving Loan Fund. Amy Gartley, head of the RLF subcommittee, said the group has a draft form and a draft program outline. The RLF is intended to provide bridge loans for China businesses seeking to open or to expand.

As the meeting ended, Joann Austin reminded committee members that China’s comprehensive plan puts gaining public access to China Lake as a high priority.

CORRECTION: This article previously stated incorrectly that Landis Hudson was with American Rivers. He is not. He is with the Maine Rivers organization. We apologize for the error.

Obituaries, Week of May 17, 2018

LILLIAN MCGLASHING JOHANNES

FAIRFIELD – Lillian McGlash­ing Johannes passed away on April 13, 2018, at Gray Birch, in Augusta. She was born in Cambridge, Massachusetts, on May 21, 1926, the daughter of the late Frank and Christine (Lundquist) McGlashing.

As a young girl, she waitressed at the old Belgrade Hotel, and shared many comical stories of her young life. She worked at Squires Meat, M.M. Madys, and Necco Candy, in Massachusetts. She eventually returned to Maine.

Lillian had a very long and productive life. She loved spending time with her sisters, shopping, eating out, and playing cards. She made many afghans throughout the years.

She was very proud of having the legs of a dancer. Lillian had no children of her own, but she was a foster mother for several years. She was a member of Eastern Star Fireside Chapter #103 in Clinton.

Lillian was predeceased by her brothers: Roy (Madeline), Elwood (Ann), Francis (Viola), Walter (Dotty), and John (Nellie); her sisters: Evelyn Corderlo (Joe) Dorothy Stratton (Wally), and Jennie Stratton (Bill); and many nieces and nephews.

She is survived by three nieces, Gail Wilcox, Tina Stratton and Sheryl Richard, and many other nieces, nephews, cousins, and sisters and brothers-in-law from her husband’s side.

An online guestbook may be signed and memories shared at www.lawrybrothers.com.

RAYMOND LIBERTY

WINSLOW––Raymond A. Liberty, 79, passed away on Saturday, April 21, 2018, in Waterville. He was born in Waterville on September 19, 1938, the son of Romeo and Doris (Cote) Liberty.

Ray graduated from Lawrence High School, in Fairfield, in 1957, where he excelled at football, and remained a Bulldogs fan all of his life.

He started his career working at both the Waterville Morning Sentinel and the U.S. Postal Service. In 1965, he began working for United Parcel Service as a driver, eventually working his way up to division manager of New England, where he retired.

Ray enjoyed hunting, fishing, traveling, and had the ability to build and renovate anything. He loved stained glass, making many beautiful pieces which will be enjoyed for many years.

He was predeceased by his parents; his wife, Lucille (Nadeau) Liberty in 2000; he remarried Alice Zebrof, who passed away in 2014; brothers, Romeo Liberty, Richard Liberty, Ronnie Liberty; and his sisters, Gloria Goldberg and Theresa Bolduc.

Ray is survived by his daughter, Jane McIntosh, of China; his son, Steve Liberty, of Belgrade; grandchildren: Benjamin McPherson and his wife, Stephanie; Lauren McPherson; Cameron McIntosh; Ashley Leppe and her husband, Jose; and Jackson Liberty; great-grandchildren: Wesley and Addison McPherson, and Annabella and Anniston Leppe; brother, Robert (Gene) liberty and his wife, Cathy; and many nieces and nephews.

An online guestbook may be signed at www.lawrybrothers. com.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Ray’s name to: The Winslow Firefighters Association, 114 Benton Avenue, Winslow, ME 04901, to purchase extraction equipment, or, to: Kennebec Behavioral Health, 67 Eustis Parkway, Waterville, ME 04901.

LOUISE M. CHARITY

BENTON––Louise M. Charity, 87, a lifelong resident of Benton, passed away on Wednesday, April 25, 2018. Louise was born on May 3, 1930, the daughter of Ralph and Sadie (Spencer) Crosby.

She graduated from Lawrence High School, in Fairfield, in 1948. She married Richard A. (Chic) Charity, Sr., on December 24, 1949; they were married for 54 years, until the time of his death.

Louise enjoyed raising flowers and gardening. She was well known for her icicle and dill pickles, as well as for her preserving and baking. Louise enjoyed cooking with her grandchildren, and welcomed little fingers into her favorite ‘dough bowl.’ She was thoughtful of her neighbors, and would deliver baked goods and casseroles to friends who were ill or in need.

Louise had many other talents as well. She crocheted afghans for family members, made pillows, enjoyed embroidery, sewing, and made her own wreaths. She also loved music, singing, and taught herself to play the guitar. She enjoyed family gatherings that included singalongs, camping, and bonfires. She loved holidays, and made each birthday a special celebration for her children and grandchildren. Chic and Louise enjoyed dancing together on Saturday nights, and were especially well known for their skill in dancing the jitterbug.

Louise retired from J C Penney, in Waterville, where she enjoyed working for many years. She worked previously at a butcher shop, a shoe store, a greenhouse, and in the pickle factory, which had been located along the banks of the Sebasticook River, in Benton. She also worked at West’s Variety, in Benton, and enjoyed seeing the success of her family members, who owned the store. She enjoyed membership at the Benton Falls Congregational Church, working on the church suppers.

Louise was predeceased by her parents, Ralph and Sadie Crosby; husband, Richard A. Charity, Sr.; siblings, Delbert Crosby, Leah Maxwell, Nellie Alexander, and Jean Crosby; niece, Cindy (Crosby) Wolfe; and nephew, Gary MacKnight.Surviving are sister, Linda Crosby; her daughters, Cheryl Seamans and husband Steve, of Athens,, Terry Hall and her partner Doug, of Albion, and son Richard Charity, Jr. and wife Jacki, of Benton; grandchildren, Desirae Stowe, Darcee Skidgell, Brandon Hall, Sarah Obare, Hannah Seamans, Ami Newell, and Richard Charity III; great-grandchildren, Nicholas Stowe, Demika Stowe, Ayla Skidgell, Wyatt Skidgell, Lydia Skidgell, Isaak Muse, Maddox Obare, Matteo Rodriguez, Ayden Newell, Brady Newell, Crosby Newell, and Clara Charity; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

An online guidebook may be signed and memories shared at www.lawrybrothers.com.

For those who wish, donations in her memory can be made to: Benton Falls Congregational Church, 206 Falls Rd., Benton ME 04901.

BONNIE L. DIXON

FAIRFIELD––Bonnie Lynne Dixon, 65, of Fairfield, passed away on Tuesday, May 1, 2018, following a brief battle with lung cancer. Bonnie was born on February 26, 1953, in Fairfield, the daughter of Albert Ole Dixon and Marion (Ames) Bailey.

Bonnie graduated from Lawrence High School, in Fairfield, in 1971. Following graduation, Bonnie worked at Scott Paper Co., in Winslow, until the closing in 1997. Bonnie had many co-conspirators at Scott Paper, many of whom came to visit her during her brief illness.

After the closing of the mill, Bonnie went to school to be a certified nursing assistant and spent just over 12 years working at the Togus VA Hospital, where she had many accomplices whom she remained close to after her well-deserved and eagerly anticipated retirement in March 2015.

Bonnie was a proud mother and grandmother, who bragged about her family to everyone she knew. She was affectionately known as “Haha” to her three grandchildren, and she loved spoiling them and showering them with gifts.

She loved movies, and enjoyed watching her large collection of movies on her giant outdoor screen with friends and family.

Halloween was her favorite time of the year, and she spent the month enjoying her favorite horror and paranormal movies, and sharing them with her children and grandchildren. Bonnie had a unique sense of humor that made people enjoy every minute they spent with her.

She was predeceased by her father Albert Dixon Sr., and mother, Marion (Ames) Bailey.

Bonnie is survived by her two daughters, Nikkia Finnemore and husband, Matthew, of Fairfield, and Krystal Dixon, of Salem, Massachusetts; three grandchildren, Melissa, Benjamin, and Kristopher Finnemore; sister, Sandra Doyon, of Winslow; brother, Albert Dixon Jr., of Norridgewock.

An online guestbook may be signed and memories shared at www.lawrybrothers.com.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to: The Humane Society of Waterville, 100 Webb Road, Waterville ME 04901.

PRISCILLA M. HATCH

SOUTH CHINA––Priscilla M. Hatch, 92, of South China, formerly of South Jefferson, died Monday, April 23, 2018, at Country Manor Nursing Home, Whitefield, following a long illness. Priscilla was born on July 3, 1926, the daughter of Sewall Waltz and Irene (Robinson) Waltz. She was always proud to say she was the oldest of their 11 children.

She grew up in Damariscotta Mills and attended local schools, graduating from Lincoln Academy class of 1945. On May 17, 1945, she married Richard L. Hatch and moved to the Hatch family farm in Jefferson where they raised their two children Roger and Bonnie.

Priscilla worked for Senters Department Store and other various brief part time jobs in the community but was most proud to say she was the first clerk hired by R. H. Reny when he opened his first store in Damariscotta. She was a hard worker and spent most of her life at the homestead raising and selling vegetables with her husband and helping raise her grandchildren. Priscilla’s hobbies included flower gardening, sewing, crocheting, cooking, and having most likely the largest collection of skunks in the state.

Priscilla was predeceased by husband Richard; son, Roger A. Hatch; daughter-i-law, Carolyn Hatch; and siblings, Carroll Waltz, Henry Waltz, Aubrey “Hoopie” Waltz, Judy Campbell, and Gloria Phillips.

She is survived by daughter Bonnie Ames and son-in-law William Ames, of Florida and Pemaquid; granddaughters, Jenna Verney and partner Norman Black, of South China, Katrina Hatch Guptill, of Jefferson, Penelope Hatch and partner Josh Donahue, of Somerville; grandson, Richard E. Hatch, of Jefferson; great-grandchildren, Brent Verney, of South China, Kelsey Verney and partner Justin Monroe, of South China, roger Guptill and wife Jessica, of Washburn, Chelsea Guptill, of Jefferson, Nickolas Guptill, of New Harbor, and Joshua Donahue, of Somerville; great-great-grandchildren, Cooper Monroe, Willow Verney, Caleb Guptill, Reid Beaudoin, and Adalayde Rand-Verney; siblings, Robert Waltz, Raymond Waltz, Frank Waltz, Gertrude Pinkham, and Margaret Russell, all of whom live in the local area; as well as many nieces and nephews.

Condolences, photos and stories may be shared at www.plummerfh.com.

Arrangements were entrusted to Plummer Funeral Home, 933 Ridge Road, Windsor.

JOY JONES

FAIRFIELD – On Thursday, May 3, 2018, Joy Jones, 80, passed away. She was born on April 11, 1938, to Val Simpson.

She was raised by her grandmother Eva, in Waterville, and was educated in the Waterville schools.

On September 21 she married Dana Jones. He was as quiet as she was not. This union took their family and friends by surprise.

Joy worked at Scotty’s Pizza, in Waterville, for many years. She also worked in food service at the Waterville hospitals.

She was well known for her sassy wit and smile. Fun little fact, she had her motorcycle license. She was a survivor of breast cancer and would tell you all about it.

She was affectionately called “a one-eyed T. rex” by her family, because of breaking both shoulders on two different occasions, then poorly healing, leading to lack of mobility. Her many falls lead to many emergency room visits, where her sassy wit would make the staff laugh–even with her two black eyes that made her look like the Hamburglar. She was loved by all who stepped in her life, and will be greatly missed by her family.

She was predeceased by her mother; brother; grandmother; and grandson,l Dana Christopher, in 1985. And just recently, by her sister-in-law, Althea Nutt West.

She is survived by her son, Dana R. Jones and fiancé, Valerie Burton; her daughter, Jodi L. McGlashing and her husband, Bob; grandchildren: Melissa, Andrew, Danielle, Devin and Hannah; great-grandchildren Taryn, Brandon, and Aadan; also by her sister, who just found her 15 years ago, Judy Soucier; the three “Ps”, her cousins, Patty, Paula and Pam, many other cousins, nieces and nephews.

GEORGE A. SWEATT JR.

ALBION––George Arley Sweatt Jr., 79, passed away on Thursday, May 3, 2018. George was born in Columbia, New Hampshire, on June 1, 1938. He was the son of George A. Sweatt Sr. and Ethel G. Wheelock.

George graduated from Penacook High School in Penacook, New Hampshire, in 1957.

In 1960, George married the former Penelope Sawyer, in York. George was then drafted into the U.S. Army, where he spent time in Georgia before moving home to Portsmouth to raise a family. In 1975, the family moved to Maine to live and build a home.

He operated equipment, and owned George’s Auto Sales, in Waterville. George had a passion for cars and racing. He enjoyed watching his family race, and spent time at home working on his vehicles.

He is survived by his wife, Penny, of 57 years; sisters, Dorothy, Helen and Annette; brothers, Arthur and Mike; his children, George Sweatt III (fiancé Jennifer Leary) and his children, Melissa and Andrew; Daren Sweatt and his children, Ryan and Meghan; Brian Sweatt (wife Belinda) and his children, Spencer and Devon Raie; Jennifer Buck (husband Jason) and their children, Jordan, Sydney, and Brady; two great-grandchildren, Brynn and Sully; and many nieces and nephews.

Online condolences may be offered and memories shared at www.lawrybrothers.com.

MAVEL M. BRAGG

OAKLAND––Mavel M. Bragg, 77, passed away unexpectedly at his home on Thursday, May 3, 2018. Mavel was born on September 2, 1940, in Waterville, to Hermon and Pauline (Parentiss) Bragg.

He was a Maine Guide, and worked in the woods most of his life. Mavel loved the outdoors, hunting, and fishing. He also loved feeding the squirrels and birds around the house.

Mavel was predeceased by his mother Pauline Prentiss; and his father Hermon Bragg.

He is survived by his wife, Diane Bragg; two children, Stacey Bragg and Billy-Jo Bragg; three stepchildren: T. J, Tony, and Misty Bernarda; many grandchildren; sister, Carleen Miller; brother, Grover Bragg; and he will be sadly missed by a special nephew, Grover “Duny” Bragg Jr.
An online guestbook may be signed at www.lawrybrothers.com.

MATTHEW J. COTE

OAKLAND––Matthew Joseph Cote, 33, of Oakland passed away on Saturday, May 5, 2018. Matt was born on May 18, 1984, in Lewiston, the biological son of Eileen (McRae) Cote and Joseph “Dana” Cote.

Matt graduated from Messalonskee High School, in Oakland, in 2003, where he was a high school football player. He attended Springfield College and recently returned to school to finish his degree.

Matt was passive, sweet, funny, and giving. He will be remembered for his hard work ethic, and provided with everything he had to support his family. He was always there to lend a hand for anyone. Matt was a production supervisor at Huhtamaki, in Waterville, at the time of his death, where he was a highly respected employee.

On October 4, 2014, Matt married the former Jessica Corson. His entire world revolved around his wife and his children who he adored beyond words, son Elijah (2-1/2) and baby daughter Emma ( 6 weeks). Matt was an amazing husband and father. Matt was especially proud of his brother, Josh Cote, fondly referred to as “Little Cote”.

Matt enjoyed camping, fishing, kayaking hunting, golfing, gaming, wrestling with Elijah and beer.

Matt was predeceased by his biological parents, Joseph and Eileen Cote; his sister, Heather Cote, and his brother, Zachary McRae.

Matt is survived by his wife, Jessie Cote, and their two children, Elijah and Emma, all of Oakland; his brother Joshua Cote, wife April and niece Charley Loo, of Clayton, North Carolina; his parents, Michelle McRae and her partner, Pete Silva, of Oakland, and Michael McRae and his partner Sue Berube, of Sabattus; his mother and father-in-law, Jeff and Rita Corson, of Skowhegan; his sister-in-law, Nikki Pratt and husband Lee, niece and nephew Colby and Maci, of Gorham; biologically cousins, Caitlyn Gallagher and Shaughnessy Robitaille were his little sisters; many aunts, uncles and cousins.

An online guestbook may be signed and memories shared at www.lawrybrothers.com.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to the Elijah and Emma Cote Scholarship Fund, c/o Key Bank, 305 Kennedy Memorial Drive, Waterville, ME 04901.

FRANK L. TOZIER SR.

UNITY––Frank Lewis Tozier, Sr., 89, passed away on Saturday, May 5, 2018, at the Maine Veterans Home, in Augusta, where he had been living for the past two years. Frank was born in Lynn, Massachusetts, on February 28, 1929, to Kenneth and Evelyn (McGrath) Tozier, Sr.

He spent his first 40 years living in Unity, and the next 37 years in Palmetto, Florida.

He attended Unity Grammar School and graduated from Unity High School. Frank served in the US Army from 1946 to 1948, and was stationed in Tokyo, Japan. While in Maine he worked with his father, Kenneth, running the family business–Tozier;s Spray Service.

He was predeceased by his son Frank Tozier, Jr.

He is survived by his son Craig Tozier and wife Jennifer, of Unity; daughter-in-law Kim Tozier, of Hartland; his grandchildren: Landon Tozier, Travis Tozier, Chad Tozier, Jordan Tozier, Justin Tozier and their families; 16 great-grandchildren; sister Marilyn Tozier Owen, and her long-time companion Kenneth Phelps who resides in Largo, Florida.

OTHERS DEPARTED

WINNIFRED HAUG, 87, of Punta Gorda, Florida, passed away on Tuesday, April 17, 2018. Locally, she is survived by a daughter, Maureen Denis, of Winslow.

LOCAL TIES

DOUGLAS C. BREINGAN, 59, of Skowhegan, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, May 3, 2018. He worked as a maintenance person at Shaw’s Supermarket, Thomas College, both in Waterville, and Northeast Laboratory, in Winslow. Locally, he is survived by a son, Matthew Woodard, of Waterville, and brother Dan Breingan and wife Laura, of Fairfield.

New flag flies over First Baptist Church

Sam Goddard puts up the new flag. (Contributed photo)

A few months ago, the flag in front of the First Baptist Church, in Waterville, was stolen and the pole damaged. Today, the flag pole has been repaired and a new flag waves. Church moderator Sam Goddard, of China, raises the new flag.

Mid-Maine Tech Center announces top seniors

From left to right, Nicholas Veilleux, electrical technology, Messalonskee High School; Brandon Davis, criminal justice, Winslow High School; Jacob Deraps, information technology, Winslow; William Bean, construction technology, Messalonskee; Lawrence Lawler, emergency services, Lawrence High School; Gabe Derbyshire, culinary arts, Messalonskee; Kassandra Gregory, medical careers, Winslow; Marissa Carpenter, early childhood education, Winslow; Jacob Kershner, precision machining, Winslow; James Lauzon, mass media communications, Waterville High School. Absent from photo, Jacob Dow, automotive technology, home schooled; Jacob Bickford, collision repair & refinishing, Lawrence. (Contributed photo)

The Mid-Maine Technical Center, in Waterville, recently recognized the outstanding seniors as MMTC students of the year. Representing each program, students of the year demonstrated extraordinary professionalism, skill development, leadership and contributions to the school and their respective communities.

China filmmaker to present documentary on Kosovo with “A Cup of Sugar” at Railroad Square Cinema

China filmmaker Luke T. Harwath will present a documentary film on Kosovo and its relationship with the state of Iowa. (Contributed photo)

Join this special one-time screening and Q&A with the filmmaker of a documentary that explores the strange relationship between Kosovo and the state of Iowa.

Central Maine Filmmaker, Luke T. Harwath, will be hosting a one-time screening of the documentary “With a Cup of Sugar” at Railroad Square on May 22, at 7:15 p.m.

Having been the frequent battleground for political and cultural unrest, Kosovo has emerged from war to become Europe’s newest country. In a fight for the future, Kosovo must bolster its war-torn image and forge meaningful relationships across the world if it is to survive. One of these relationships is with the U.S. state of Iowa.

View the trailer for the film at the bottom this page, or on Youtube using the link: https://youtu.be/6Qbz_Er3EB8

Q&A with Filmmaker Luke T. Harwath to follow the screening of the film.

Harwath, who lives in Central Maine, was provided unprecedented access in Kosovo and spent years filming the documentary. He says, “Information about Kosovo tends to focus primarily on tear-gas in parliament, rows with Serbia, or a handful of extremists that have since been dealt with. It paints a picture of instability and a country that’s not ready to participate in a dialogue with the rest of the world. That picture is incomplete and leaves out the majority of the story.

“I wanted to create a clearer picture of the nation as it exists today from a number of different perspectives. Kosovo is here to stay. At the same time, it’s important to be honest about the challenges faced today in Kosovo, because there are some heavy obstacles that it faces if it is going to continue its steady work toward a bright future.”

On Kosovo’s relationship with Iowa, Harwath says, “The relationship between Kosovo and the state of Iowa is well recognized in certain circles, but perhaps not to the general public. This relationship demonstrates, for any small nation, the importance of establishing genuine, mutually-beneficial connections in order to ensure stability.”

 

 

Vassalboro Senior Services Fair set for May 23

source: http://www.vassalboro.net/

by Mary Grow

Vassalboro’s second senior services fair is scheduled for noon to 4 p.m. Wednesday, May 23, in St. Bridget’s Center, the new community meeting space in the former Catholic church at 864 Main Street in North Vassalboro.

Sponsored by FAVOR (Friends Advocating for Vassalboro’s Older Residents), the fair will take advantage of the larger space – last year it was held in the town office meeting room – to offer something for almost everyone.

Twenty-two organizations are listed alphabetically on the posters advertising the fair, starting with AARP Maine and the Alzheimer’s Association and ending with Waterville Area Habitat for Humanity and 47 Daisies, the educational farm on Webber Pond Road.

Those attending the fair will be able to get information from representatives of those groups and a variety of other educational, medical and social service agencies.

Admission to the fair is free. There will be door prizes, and from 11:30 a.m. on, students in Vassalboro Community School’s JMG (Jobs for Maine Graduates) program will sell hot dogs and other refreshments. More information is available from Debbie Johnston at the Vassalboro town office. According to the 47 Daisies website, the farm is sponsoring a community potluck at the mill in North Vassalboro beginning at 6 p.m., Friday, May 18. Residents are invited to share food, listen to live music and learn about the farm’s mobile food access program.

Erskine announces class of 2018 Top 10 Seniors

Erskine Academy top 10 seniors in the class of 2018 include, front, from left to right, Valedictorian Caleb Tyler, Salutatorian Kayla Hubbard, Kassandra Nadeau, Luke Hodgkins, and Maggie Anderson. Back, Megan Lemieux, Emma Stone, Gabriella Pizzo, Kaylee Porter, and Carleigh Ireland. (Contributed photo)

Erskine Academy has announced the class of 2018 Top Ten Seniors.

Valedictorian is Caleb Tyler, son of Regan and Jason Tyler, of Palermo. Throughout his four years at Erskine, Caleb has participated in such activities as National Honor Society, Future Business Leaders of America, Soccer, and Lacrosse and he has completed a variety of community service projects. Caleb is a Maine Principal’s Association Award recipient, he is a Rensselaer Medal recipient, and he has received high honor roll distinction every trimester with awards of excellence in the areas of Algebra, Integrated Science, Chemistry, and US History. Caleb plans to attend the University of Maine to study Mechanical Engineering.

Salutatorian is Kayla Hubbard, daughter of Phil and Julie Hubbard, of Palermo. Kayla is a member of National Honor Society and she has participated in such activities as Student Council, EA Leadership, the Friends of Rachel (FOR) Club, Drama Club, Soccer, Tennis, and she has participated in numerous community service endeavors. A student who has received high honor roll distinction every trimester, Kayla has received awards of excellence in the areas of Algebra, Social Studies, PreCalculus, and Physics, she was the recipient of the Bausch & Lomb Honorary Science Award, and she has received Renaissance Recognition and Senior of the Trimester awards. Kayla plans to attend Lancaster Bible College where she will major in Elementary Education.

Third in academic standing is Kassandra Nadeau, daughter of Christine and Andrew Nadeau, of Vassalboro. Kassandra is a member of National Honor Society and she has participated in such activities as Business Club, Prom Committee, Cross Country, Indoor Track, and Track & Field. Kassandra has completed a variety of community service projects and she was selected to attend the New England Student Leadership Conference. Kassandra plans to attend the University of Maine with a major in Biology.

Fourth in academic standing is Luke Hodgkins, son of Lisa and Craig Hodgkins, of Jefferson. Luke is a member of National Honor Society and he has participated in such activities as Student Council, EA Leadership, Math Team, Future Business Leaders of America, the Friends of Rachel (FOR) Club, Cross Country, Tennis, and he has served as a class officer for three years. Luke has received an award of excellence in English and he has received Renaissance Recognition and Senior of the Trimester awards. Luke plans to attend the University of Maine to pursue studies in Biology.

Fifth in academic standing is Maggie Anderson, daughter of Michelle Anderson, of China, and Frank Anderson, of Augusta. Maggie is a member of National Honor Society and she has been a participant of the Drama Club, Prom Committee, and TLC (Erskine’s community service group). Maggie was a recipient of the Phi Beta Kappa Award and she has received high honor roll distinction every trimester. Maggie plans to attend Gordon College with an undeclared major.

Sixth in academic standing is Megan Lemieux, daughter of Debbie and Richard Lemieux, of Vassalboro. Megan is a member of National Honor Society and she has participated in such activities as TLC (Erskine’s community service organization), Drama Club, Math Team, and the Friends of Rachel (FOR) Club. Megan has received the Society of Women Engineers award, she has received high honor roll distinction every trimester with an award of excellence in English, and she has received a Renaissance Recognition award. Megan plans to attend Unity College with a major in Biology.

Seventh in academic standing is Emma Stone, daughter of Katrina Johnsen Smith, of Palermo, and Andrew Stone, of Hope. Emma is a member of National Honor Society and she has participated in such activities as Drama, the Friends of Rachel (FOR) Club, and Tennis. Emma plans to major in Business at Gordon College.

Eighth in academic standing is Gabriella Pizzo, daughter of Deanne and Greg Pizzo, of China. Gabriella is a member of National Honor Society and she has been a participant of the Drama Club, the Friends of Rachel (FOR) Club, and Tennis. Gabriella has received high honor roll distinction every trimester and she has received a Senior of the Trimester award. Gabriella plans to attend Sarah Lawrence College with a major in Theater.

Ninth in academic standing is Kaylee Porter, daughter of Deann and Shawn Porter, of Palermo. Kaylee is a member of National Honor Society, she has participated in such activities as Student Council, EA Leadership, the Friends of Rachel (FOR) Club, Soccer, Cross Country, Indoor Track, and Track & Field. In addition, Kaylee has completed a variety of community service projects. Kaylee was the recipient of the Smith Book Award, she received the Most Valuable Member of Student Council award, and she has been a Renaissance Recognition award recipient. Kaylee plans to major in Nutrition at the University of Maine.

Tenth in academic standing is Carleigh Ireland, daughter of Amy and Scott Ireland, of Vassalboro. Carleigh has participated in such activities as Math Team and Prom Committee. Carleigh has received awards of excellence in Health, English, and French. Carleigh plans to major in Nursing at the University of Maine.

FOR YOUR HEALTH: What You Should Know About Heart Valve Disease

(NAPSI)—Even serious cases of heart valve disease can occur without symptoms or go unnoticed or be mistaken for other conditions because symptoms develop slowly.

One Man’s Story

Al Ridgely figured his increasing shortness of breath and lagging stamina were symptoms of his emphysema and getting older, until a fainting episode led doctors to discover he was one of the 2.5 percent of Americans with heart valve disease (HVD).

The American Heart Association is working to raise awareness about the symptoms, risks and treatments for the condition, in which one or more of the heart valves have been damaged, disrupting blood flow by not opening or closing properly. HVD becomes more prevalent with age, affecting one in 10 adults age 75 and older.

Ridgely, who is from Traverse City, Michigan, underwent open-heart surgery to repair both his mitral and tricuspid valves and encourages others to talk to their health care providers about any health changes, rather than just assume it is part of aging.

“It never entered my mind that I could have heart disease,” said Ridgely, who is now 83. “As I get older, it can be hard to recognize what’s aging and what’s something more serious.”

Advice From A Health Care Practitioner

Romeatrius Moss, DNP, RN, an AHA volunteer, said understanding HVD and making lifestyle changes are crucial for protecting heart health, especially in African Americans, where the disease is more prevalent.

“In the black community, we need to understand what our risks are and follow up with necessary testing,” said Dr. Moss, founder, president and chief executive of Black Nurses Rock, the nation’s largest minority nursing association.

While HVD is relatively common, three out of four Americans reported knowing little to nothing about the condition, and six in 10 heart valve patients didn’t have or didn’t recognize their symptoms, according to surveys released by the Alliance for Aging Research.

Medical advancements mean HVD can often be successfully treated either through repair or replacement; however, an estimated 25,000 people die from the condition each year.

According to the American Heart Association, some people, even those with serious HVD, may have no symptoms, while others have symptoms that change very slowly over time or come on quickly. Symptoms can include chest pain or palpitations, shortness of breath, fatigue, weakness or inability to maintain regular activity level, light-headedness or loss of consciousness, or swollen ankles, feet or abdomen.

In addition to age, risk factors for HVD include a history of rheumatic fever or infective endocarditis, heart attack, heart failure, arrhythmia, or previous heart valve conditions from birth, called congenital heart defects.

Those previously diagnosed with a heart murmur, mitral valve prolapse or other mild form of HVD should maintain regular checkups with a health care provider and watch for any changes should the condition worsen over time, Dr. Moss said.

She was diagnosed with a heart murmur as a child, but didn’t realize it could pose significant health risks until a physical for the Air Force revealed she had mitral valve prolapse. Thirteen years later, Dr. Moss gets regular checkups with her health care provider and watches for signs that her condition may be worsening. She also exercises regularly and watches her diet to minimize her risks.

“Know your body and know how you can protect yourself,” Moss said. “Sometimes, patients have to lead this discussion and as nurses we try to help our patients advocate for themselves.”

Learn More

For more fact about heart valve disease, including risk factors, symptoms and treatment, visit www.heart.org/heartvalves.

Roland’s Trivia Question for the Week of May 10, 2018

In 2009, the Red Sox recorded an MLB first when they had four Japanese-born players on their roster. How many can you name?

Answer:

Daisuke Matsuzaka, Hideki Okajima, Takashi Saito and Junichi Tazawa.

SCORES & OUTDOORS: Interesting weekend of various animals’ activities

spotted salamander

Roland D. Halleeby Roland D. Hallee

It was an interesting weekend for me regarding unusual animal activities. The first one was actually, unknowingly, transporting a field mouse from our camp to our house. She had hidden herself in some clothes that were taken home to be laundered, jumped out of the bag and ran under the refrigerator. She is still at large, but left behind five recently-born babies. The hunt continues.

What we didn’t realize, at the time, was that the mouse had made its nest in the bag of clothes that was left in camp over the winter. Lesson learned. Won’t do that again.

The second, while preparing Sunday dinner, I actually witnessed a squirrel fall out of a tree. Never seen that before. It fell onto a wood pile, and lay motionless for a couple of minutes. I thought it was dead, but apparently was only stunned. It eventually regained its wits, shook off the dizziness, and proceeded along its way. A little bizarre to say the least. Have you ever seen a squirrel fall from a tree?

The most interesting one, though, happened at camp on Sunday. Our neighbor, while raking winter remnants of leaves and twigs, discovered a weird-looking lizard. She brought it to me, and we inspected it. It lay quietly in her hand as she slowly and gently petted it. We tried to discern what it was. She found it among some rocks that had been concealed with leaves.

It was about seven inches long, and black with bright yellow spots. It resembled a salamander – you know the little red ones we see running around under wet rocks or boards. Only, compared to those salamanders, this one look­ed like Godzilla.

Well, research revealed it to be a spotted salamander, a mole salamander that is common in the eastern United States and Canada.

For about 95 percent of the year, these shy creatures bury themselves under logs, leaves and rocks, or in burrows and tunnels made by other animals. They remain dormant during the day, emerging at night to feast on insects and other invertebrates. They spend most of their time underground. They rarely come above ground, except after a rain or for foraging and breeding. During the winter, they hibernate underground, and are not seen again until breeding season in early March to May.

Vernal pools are very important to the spotted salamander. They may visit them only for a few days each year, but they are crucial in the amphibian’s life cycle.

spotted salamander egg masses

Although common, vernal pools are not well understood. It’s easy to pass by one of those and not even know it’s there. Vernal pools are a temporary, isolated pool of water. They typically fill in between the winter and spring and dry up by late summer. It is impossible for fish to survive in them, making the vernal pool ideal for the amphibians’ reproduction. Eggs and larvae of the amphibian are a very tasty treat for hungry fish.

Usually between mid-March and the end of April they migrate en masse to their local vernal pool. Once there, they participate in a nuptial dance so vigorous that the water around them may appear to boil. That is when mating occurs. A few days later, females will lay upwards of 100 eggs. The adults then depart to their forest hideouts, leaving the young to fend for themselves.

Within the northeastern United States, several states have already listed the spotted salamander as a species of special concern. This is mostly because many vernal pools, especially in urban areas, are being destroyed by development. This puts the spotted salamander in peril.

The spotted salamander is approximately 6 – 10 inches long. They are stout, with a wide snout. The main color is black with two uneven rows of yellow spots running from the top of the head to the tip of the tail. The spots closest to the top of the head are more orange, and change to more yellow by the end of the tail.

The diet of the adult spotted salamander includes crickets, worms, insects, spiders, slugs, centipedes, and millipedes.

The little guy my neighbor disturbed seemed to be a little groggy. Maybe it’s because he was roused from his day time siesta. She put it back where she found it, hopefully, no worse for the wear.

Roland’s trivia question of the week:

In 2009, the Red Sox recorded a MLB first when they had four Japanese-born players on their roster. How many can you name?

Answer can be found here.