Name the only three players, who played left field, consecutively, for the same team their entire career, and all are in baseball’s hall of fame.
Ted Williams, Carl Yastrzemski and Jim Rice, of the Boston Red Sox.
CHINA – Horace Francis Stevens, 91, died peacefully at home Sunday, June 28, 2020. Horace was born on March 8, 1929, in Augusta to Herbert Francis Jr. and Flora Morang Stevens.
He graduated from Cony High School, in Augusta, and Tufts University, Medford, Massachusetts, with a degree in Mortuary Science.
He married Lois Eva Page, on September 27, 1952. He served during the Korean War as a Medic in the U.S. Army. He moved around a lot; Tom was born in Virginia, Cindy in Rockland, Karen in Hallowell, Linda in Auburn, and Charlie in Augusta.
While in high school he worked for his father and the Plummer Funeral Home. His career involved working for the Stilphen Funeral Home, in Rockland, Kirschner’s Meats, in Augusta, Dillingham Funeral Home, in Auburn, back to Kirschner’s as manager of their institutional division and then his ownership of the Gray Funeral Home, in Windsor. He never fully retired.
He was always speculating in real estate, fixing up and flipping fixer uppers while at home and more so when he wintered in Florida. He also worked on old cemeteries. He said the thing he hated the most about getting old was that he couldn’t work!
He traveled extensively all over the country with his wife, often accompanied by Uncle Dave and Aunt Anita. He traveled with Cindy to Australia and the British Isles. He also traveled on numerous cruise ships. He looked forward to having family around. He always bought the lobsters for everyone on Fathers Day even though this year he wasn’t able to enjoy them.
Horace is survived by hi children Thomas (Lisa), of Newcastle, Cynthia (Ron), of Yarmouth, Karen (Dan), of Windsor, Linda (Richard), of Richmond, and Charles (Melissa), of Wilton; grandchildren, Casey Stevens, Sarah Stevens Ward, Mo Wark, Jason Finley, Steven Finley, Richard Gower II, Michael Gower, Mykayla Searles, Charles Stevens Jr. and Eva Stevens; 15 great-grandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren; half brothers and sisters, Helen Hickman, Mary Nunan, Amy Stevens, Jacob Stevens, Susan Nay and Earl Stevens.
He is preceded in death by his parents; brother Bill, half brother Owen, and his beloved wife Lois.
A Celebration of Life was held at his home, 20 Pond Road, South China, on Friday, July 3.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations to: Maine General Hospice, 21 Enterprise Dr., Augusta, ME 04330.
VENICE, Fla. – Kenneth R. Michaud, 79, passed away Tuesday, June 30, 2020, at Maine Medical Center, Portland. Ken was born in Waterville to the late Roland and Germaine (Ayotte) Michaud, on February 8, 1941. He attended Winslow schools followed by the Wentworth Institute of Technology, in Boston.
Ken married the love of his life, Gwen (Cosgrove), on August 20, 1960, and together they ran the family jewelry business, Michaud Jewelers, in Waterville. In the early ‘80s, they expanded to include jewelry and gift shops in Perkins Cove, Ogunquit. Subsequent to Gwen’s passing in 2005, Ken joined Hannoush Jewelers working in both Maine and Florida until 2020. His knowledge of jewelry, infectious smile and personality invariably led to loyal and repeat customers.
Ken was an avid Boston sports fan, he also took great pleasure in walking four miles per day along the beaches of Maine and Florida. He loved dancing, especially with his beloved wife, and together they won numerous dance competitions. In the earlier years, he played saxophone with bands including the Al Corey Band and Rip George Band, in Waterville.
Ken is survived by his three children, daughter Debra (Barry) and husband Doug Bradley, son Kevin, daughter Wendy and husband Robert Levesque; six grandchildren, David Barry and wife Allison, Morgan (Barry) Brand and husband Michael, Jacob Michaud, Kelsey Michaud and fiancé Alex, Kevin Levesque and wife Katie and Jessica Levesque; two great-grandsons Gabriel Brand and Finnian Barry, as well as great-granddaughter Gwen Brand due in August; his sister Joyce (Michaud) Black and husband Michael, their daughter Alicia (Black) Heckman and husband Brendan; sister-in-law Betty Lemieux and husband Jerry and sister-in-law Polly Boudreau; as well as several nieces, nephews, cousins.
A service and celebration of life will be held at a later date.
WINSLOW – Omerine (Dionne) Drouin, 98, passed away peacefully at MaineGeneral Medical Center, Wednesday, July 1, 2020. She was the daughter of the late William and Alice (Madore) Dionne, and was born in Waterville on December 20, 1921.
Omerine graduated from Mount Merici Academy, and took business classes at Thomas College, both in Waterville. She began her career at Waterville Fruit Company, then became a homemaker, and from there a fourth grade teacher at Notre Dame Catholic School, in Waterville, and St. John Regional Catholic School, in Wislow. She then went to work at Taconnet Federal Credit Union, in Winslow, retiring at age 62.
She and her husband spent 25 years wintering in Florida. Omerine led a prayerful life, and was known by her family and friends to be an avid and competitive card player.
Omerine was predeceased by her husband of 62 years, Roland J. Drouin; her brothers Gerald Dionne, Lucien Dionne and Lionel Dionne, her sisters Fleurette Dionne, Rita Rossignol; and her son-in-law Terry Wisdom.
She is survived by her children Claude Drouin and wife Anita, Nancy Wisdom, Paul Drouin and wife Kathie, Giselle Carey and husband Wally; her grandchildren David Drouin, Ryan Drouin, Jill Franco, Marc Franco, Angela Drouin Andrade, Kristie Carey, Brad Carey; her 11 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
Burial took place on July 15, 2020 at Maine Memorial Cemetery, Mount Vernon Road, in Augusta.
Arrangements are under the care and direction of Veilleux & Redington Funeral Home – http://www.veilleuxfuneralhome.com.
In lieu of flowers,please send donations to Corpus Christi Parish, 70 Pleasant St., Waterville, ME 04901, and, Hospice Volunteers, of Waterville Area, 304 Upper Main St., Waterville, ME 04901.
OAKLAND – Roger A. Bickford, 79, of Oakland passed away peacefully on Saturday, July 4, 2020, at Woodlands Senior Living Memory Care Unit, in Waterville. He was born in Oakland on December 19, 1940, the son of the late Guy and Myrtie (Brown) Bickford.
Roger graduated from Williams High School, in Oakland. During his earlier years he worked with his future father-in-law building chicken houses. He was also employed by Oakland Public Works and retired from Consumer Water Company, in Oakland.
He loved racing at Unity Raceway in the ‘60s and ‘70s and did very well. He also was a very good mechanic and autobody man. Roger was a jack of all trades.
Besides his parents, he was predeceased by several siblings; and his best friend, Edwin Mullen.
Roger is survived by his daughters, Kimberly Harris and her husband Allen, of Oakland, and Karen Saunders and her husband Gary, of Ellsworth; his grandchildren, Jessica Jacobs and Tyler Saunders; his great-granddaughter, Cathryn Doucette; his two sisters; and several nieces and nephews.
An online guestbook may be signed, and memories shared at http://www.familyfirstfuneralhomes.com.
Arrangements are by Wheeler Funeral Home and Cremation Care, 26 Church St., Oakland.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Roger’s memory may be made to: Woodlands Senior Living Memory Care Unit, 147 W. River Rd., Waterville, ME 04901.
WINSLOW – Rickmond K. “Rick” McCarthy, 56, of Quimby Lane, died peacefully on Thursday, July 9, 2020, at his homey. He was born in Plainfield, New Jersey, on January 15, 1964, the son of Philip and Carole (Kirk) McCarthy.
Rick graduated from Houlton High School, did his undergraduate studies at the University of Chicago and received his master’s degree in Education from the University of Illinois.
He worked for a short while in Illinois before moving to Maine.
Rick was an outdoorsman who enjoyed camping, playing guitar, fishing, hunting, canoeing and working on his farm.
He is survived by his wife, Michele D. McCarthy, of Winslow; two sons, Sean P. McCarthy, of Waterboro, and Noah B. McCarthy, of Winslow; his parents Philip and Carole McCarthy, of Winslow; a brother, Greg McCarthy and his wife Julie, of Evergreen, Colorado; two nephews, Connor and Evan McCarthy; as well as several cousins.
A celebration of life will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, July 16, at Knowlton and Hewins Funeral Home, One Church St., Augusta.
Condolences may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the website at http://www.familyfirstfuneralhomes.com.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Kennebec Messalonskee Trails, P.O. Box 2388, Waterville, ME 04903.
WINSLOW – Nancy Lee Hall, 74, passed away peacefully on Friday, June 12, 2020, at her home, in Winslow, following a long and courageous battle against breast cancer. Nancy was born on October 29, 1945, in Waterville, the youngest child of Verna (Reid) and Henry Grard.
She grew up in Fairfield and graduated from Lawrence High School in 1963.
Marrying the love of her life, Lawrence Wilbur Hall, on November 15, 1969, together, they shared 50 years of marriage. Side by side with her husband they managed a property management business in Portland for many years before returning home to Winslow in 2009. At one time Nancy escorted Hillary Clinton, when she was the first lady, through 100 State Street, in Portland, where she prepared meals for the elderly.
Years ago, while working for Unity Raceway she made and served Kyle Petty a doughboy. She was a sports enthusiast and loved the Bruins, Patriots and Red Sox, and always knew the game schedule right off the top of her head. During evening phone calls she couldn’t understand why others were not watching the game.
“When I get where I’m going” was recently written on her calendar, she knew her time on earth was done, Nancy never stopped smiling.
Nancy is survived by her two daughters, Bonnie Grivois, of Fairfield, Terry Hall and significant other, Michael Badger, of Glenburn, two stepsons, Timothy Hall and Earl Hall; five grandchildren, Shawna Pellerin, Heather Williams, Joseph Hood, Harley Denis, Dakota Bartlett-Hall; six great-grandchildren, Kaylee, Hannah, Shelby, Henry, Noah, Edward; and three sisters, Beverly (Grard) and Timothy Hamlin, of Vassalboro, Florida “Butch” Routhier, of Waterville, Patricia Hoyt, of Benton; and many nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by her parents, Verna and Henry Grard; and her niece, Verna Gregoire.
A burial and graveside service will be held Saturday July 25, at 10 a.m., at the Maplewood Cemetery, in Fairfield.
In lieu of flowers or memorial gifts please make donations to the Humane Society Waterville Area, 100 Webb Rd., Waterville, ME 04901.
SOUTH CHINA – Dennis Robert Quigley, 27, of South China, passed away on Sunday, June 21, 2020. He was born Feb. 26, 1993. Dennis was an inspiration to all who had the pleasure of knowing him.
Born with Spina Bifida, he overcame many challenges with a positive attitude. He enjoyed Red Sox, listening to Johnny Cash, fishing, and being with family.
Dennis is survived by his parents Daniel and Tina Quigley; his sister Elizabeth Quigley and partner James Weaver; nephew Jayden Weaver; maternal grandparents, Sonny and Elaine Hannan; paternal grandmother, Victoria Hyde and husband Joe; several aunts, uncles, and cousins.
He was predeceased by his paternal grandfather Robert Dennis Quigley.
There will be a celebration of life at a later date.
Memories and condolences may be shared at http://www.directcremationofmaine.com.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to Make a Wish Maine, 66 Mussey Rd., Scarborough, ME 04074, or maine.wish.org, or Spina Bifida Association of Greater New England, 219 East Main St., Suite 100B, Milford, MA. 01757, or sbagreaterne.org.
WATERVILLE – The Rev. Dr. Robert Harding Morris, 99, died peacefully at his granddaughter, Hilary Koch’s home in Waterville, on Tuesday, July 7, 2020. Bob was born on February 4, 1921, in Johnson City, New York, to Henry D. and Dora (Durland) Morris.
In 1943, he married the love of his life, Anne Cappucci, who preceded him in death.
Bob worked at IBM Endicott, New York, as a systems engineer and analyst for over 30 years. While working for IBM, he concurrently earned his B.A. from Harpur College (now SUNY Binghamton) and completed a double major in French and philosophy. He was a student in the full-year foreign studies program at the University of Neuchâtel, Switzerland. Also during his IBM years, he received his Local Pastor’s License from the Methodist Church and served as part-time pastor of the Campville United Methodist Church.
After his retirement from IBM, Bob went on to finish his M.S. from SUNY Binghamton, a Master of Divinity from Princeton Theological Seminary, and a Doctor of Ministry from Drew University. He concurrently served as pastor of churches in Sayreville, New Jersey, and Ventnor, New Jersey. When he retired from the ministry, he continued to serve as a guest preacher and adult Sunday school teacher in the communities where he lived. He knew it was a blessing to continue to serve God.
Bob had a lifetime love of building dry stone walls and passed on his talent to anyone who had an artistic eye and a similar disregard for their fingers and toes. When he lived in State College, Pennsylvania, he spent 10 years excavating and reforming overgrown fieldstones into contoured pathways to be explored in an undeveloped municipal parkland. He began this stone labyrinth when he was 80 “for the exercise,” and completed it in 2016.
Bob was fully committed to Eastern Standard Time, and in his many worldwide travels he never once set his watch for another time zone. This presented many challenges for family and friends traveling with him. In addition, he had absolutely no sense of direction and could easily get lost within a few miles of his home. He was thankful to live long enough to enjoy having a GPS.
His sense of humor was legendary, and his family shares hours of anecdotes, jokes, and puns. He loved playing online Scrabble and texted friends and family using carefully curated emoji messages. Bob believed that chocolate was nature’s perfect food and ate it daily for most of his 99 years, insisting that his daily ration of chocolate enabled him to do daily sit-ups and pushups until the last few weeks of his life.
Bob is survived by his daughter Suzanne, his son Robert and daughter-in-law, Debbie; five grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren.
Bob was loved dearly and will be missed greatly by his family and his many friends. Inspired by a book he read with his book club at Pleasant Street United Methodist Church, Bob became very passionate about criminal justice reform.
If you wish, donations be made online in his memory to the Equal Justice Initiative: http://www.eji.org.
WATERVILLE – Raymond Roderick Joseph Bourgoin, 82, passed away Wednesday, July 8, 2020, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Augusta, from a long battle with Parkinson’s. He was born August 3, 1938, in Van Buren, the son of Edmond and Albertine (Berube) Bourgoin.
He attended the schools of Waterville. On August 25, 1972, he married Carlene Downer at Sacred Heart Church, in Waterville; they would have celebrated their 48th wedding anniversary this year.
Ray’s first job was setting pins by hand at Metro and Streamline Bowling Lanes, in Waterville. He worked 25 years at Fort Halifax Packing, in Winslow, and worked as custodian and bus driver for the Waterville School Department. Raymond retired from Sappi Hinckley, in 2000, from his position as a maintenance worker.
He was a member of Corpus Chirsti Parish, in Waterville, and enjoyed bowling, watching the Red Sox and Patriots, horse racing, and playing cribbage. He and Carlene traveled with family and friends to Aruba, Las Vegas and Florida, where they all knew Ray would want to be “first in line.”
Raymond was always so proud of his family and loved them very much.
He is survived by his wife, Carlene (Downer) Bourgoin, of Waterville; son Dale Bourgoin and wife Dianne, of Oakland; two granddaughters, Hannah and Grace Bourgoin; one sister, Patsy and husband Eddie Gurney, of Winslow; four brothers, Eugene, of Clinton, Ronald and wife Rachel, of Winslow, Joe and wife Carol, of Waterville, and Donald and wife Libby, of Clinton; his brother-in-law, Francis Poulin; and many nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his parents; brothers, Ed and wife Sandra, and David; sisters, Dee and husband Burt Gould, Jackie and husband James Tardiff, and Charlene Poulin; sister-in-law Nancy.
In lieu of flowers, friends wishing may make donations in Raymond’s memory may do so to Parkinson’s Foundation, 200 SE 1st Street, Suite 800 Miami, FL 33131
Arrangements under the direction and care of Dan & Scott’s Cremation & Funeral Service, 445 Waterville Road, Skowhegan ME 04976.
SCARBOROUGH/PALERMO — Bertrand L. Bronn, 83, passed away on Thursday, July 8, ,2020, at Gosnell Memorial Hospice House, in Scarborough. Bertrand was born February 5, 1937, in Palermo, to the late Raymond and Marguerite “Peggy” (Eaton) Bronn.
He enjoyed a childhood like any other kid during that time period. He developed a lifelong love for the outdoors, hunting and fishing. This good ol’ Maine country boy would soon make a move to the big city of Portland which would change his life forever.
His parents managed some property in Portland, and Bertrand made it a point to spend a lot of time there when he saw one of the girls coming in and out of the building. After quite a length of time of trying to get her attention, Ruth McLinden finally caved and agreed to start dating him. Little did either of them know, but that would be the beginning of a 58-year marriage. Bert and Ruth were married on June 30, 1962, in Portland, and began their family. During that time, Bert honorably served in the United States Army until his discharge in 1965.
Upon returing home, the Bronn’s made the move to Scarborough in 1966 where they raised their family on the foundations of faith and love.
Due to the current restrictions, Bert and Ruth celebrated their 58th wedding anniversary via Zoom. In his last days he was so very happy to be able to see his bride.
His career began with Lester Card, in 1962, as a contractor. By the late 1960s he began working for S. D. Warren, in Westbrook, as part of the “outdoor crew.” He retired in 1994 following 30 years of service. Even after his retirement, his former co-workers never tired of hearing his jokes.
In addition to his parents, Bert was predeceased by his son Richard Bronn; step-mother Grace Bronn; siblings Erdine Fletcher, Raymond Bronn Jr., Samuel Bronn, Abraham Bronn and Flora Mae Richardson.
He is survived by his wife Ruth Bronn, of Scarborough; son Bertrand Bronn and wife Kathy, of Illinois; daughter Karen McKenzie and partner Robert McCubrey, of South Portland; grandchildren Kyndra, Garrett, Amber and Serena; brother Everett Bronn and sister Christie Bronn Merrick, both of Washington state.
A service was held on July 12, and interment took place at Calvary Cemetery, in South Portland.
To view Bert’s memorial page or to share an online condolence, please visit www.ConroyTullyWalker.com.
Memorial donations may be made to the Maine Cancer Foundation, 170 U.S. Route 1, Suite 250, Falmouth, ME 04105.
VASSALBORO – Arthur “Butch” Kulpa, 66, passed away at home on Wednesday, July 9, 2020, following a brief illness. Butch was born in Paterson, New Jersey, a son of Stefan and Ernestine (Contini) Kulpa.
He graduated from Indian Hills High School, in Oakland, New Jersey, and from Southern New Hampshire University.
His life was one unselfishly devoted to his family, friends and community.
Butch worked for Bausch & Lomb Optical, LaVerdiere Optical, Drs. Moody, Houghton & O’Dell, before starting his own business, Eye to Eye Opticians. He also worked for Peter Nesin Opticians and Stratford Safety.
He was a member of the Vassalboro Masonic Lodge, Kora Temple Shrine, Kora Karts, Kora Kampers, Valley of Augusta, Valley of Portland, Vassalboro Lion’s Club and Kappa Delta Phi Fraternity.
Surviving is his wife of 46 years, Marcia Hayes Kulpa, of Vassalboro; his sister, Linda Kwiatkowski, and many nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his parents and his brother, Stephen Kulpa.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to Shriner’s Hospital, 2900 N. Rocky Point Drive, Tampa, Florida 33607 or Post-Polio Health International, 50 Crestwood Executive Center #440, St. Louis, Missouri 63126.
Arrangements under the care and direction of Dan & Scott’s Cremation & Funeral Services, 445 Waterville Road, Skowhegan.
WATERVILLE – Anna J. Bolduc, 88, passed away on Thursday, July 9, 2020, at Lakewood Continuing Care Center, in Waterville. Anna was born October 31, 1931, in Waterville.
She married her high school sweetheart, Richard H. Bolduc, on November 25, 1950. Richard preceded her death on September 1, 1996, after 45 years of marriage.
In 1961, with a family of five young children, Anna and Richard pursued their dream of opening up a small convenience store on Water Street, called Dick’s Variety. For over 50 years Anna worked tirelessly, seven days a week, putting in countless hours, pouring coffee, making sandwiches, and cooking the best cheeseburgers and pizza. Anna treated all her regulars as if they were family. If you ever met Anna, she was the nicest, most energetic, caring, and one of the hardest working woman you would ever meet in your lifetime.
When she took her daily afternoon break from the store, she would shuttle many of the customers, relatives, and family members, to the bank, doctor’s appointments, hockey practices, or wherever they needed to go. Anna could be seen on a daily basis driving her big white Cadillac which required her to move the driver’s seat as far forward as possible with two pillows propped behind her back because she was only 4 feet, 9 inches tall. Thank God airbags were not available that year! Anna’s entire life was all about helping others, regardless who they were. She was truly a selfless and giving person who never expected or wanted anything in return. Prior to her passing at Lakewood, she was constantly cleaning, tidying up the tables, folding towels, and helping other residents. As Mr. Rogers quotes “Look for the helpers,” that was Anna.
Anna is survived by her two sisters, Gabrielle and Lucille Roy, of Waterville; her five children, daughter Michelle Sholar, of Las Vegas, Nevada, daughter Diana Garnier and husband David Garnier, of Hilton Head, South Carolina, son John Bolduc, of Swampscott, Massachusetts, daughter Anne Rourke and husband David Rourke, of Bradenton, Florida, and son Peter Bolduc, of Waterville. Anna’s grandchildren are, Mike Fortin, Laurie Fortin, Alicia Welch, Katie Garnier, Mark Bolduc, Katelyn Bolduc, Megan Rourke and Emma Rourke; her great-grandchildren, Ryan Welch, Zachery Welch, Brandon Fortin, Weston Bolduc, and Griffin Bolduc; and her many cousins, nieces, and nephews.
Anna was predeceased by her sisters, Theresa Boudreau and Marie Roy, brothers, Emile Roy, Joseph Roy, Elie Roy, Louis Roy, and Noel “Spat” Roy.
Unfortunately there will be no church ceremony or graveside services at this time due to Covid-19. A Mass and a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
Arrangements are in the care of Veilleux and Redington Funeral Home, 8 Elm Street, Waterville, Maine. http://www.veilleuxfuneralhome.com.
FAIRFIELD – Emily Mary-Evelyn Fournier, 32, passed away on Saturday, July 11, 2020. She died in a whitewater rafting accident wherein, according to the game warden, she rescued a child who had been ejected from the raft. While her passing was sudden and tragic, her friends and family take comfort in knowing that she acted heroically and bravely. Emily was born in Waterville on December 26, 1987, the daughter of Joe and Evelyn Rowden, and grew up in Fairfield.
She graduated from the Maine School of Science and Mathematics in 2006 and received her Bachelor of Arts from St. Anselm College, in Manchester, New Hampshire, in 2011. On June 25, 2011, she married the love of her life, Joshua Michael Fournier, whom she met at college, and they have resided in Fairfield with their dogs Sparta and Hastings.
Emily had myriad artistic, literary, and theatrical interests. She was a lifelong student of dance, as well an accomplished poet and writer, and theatrical director, working with numerous organizations and publications until her death. Perhaps her best known accomplishment was the Recycled Shakespeare Company, based in Waterville. As a co-founder and executive director of the company, Emily became a leader in making Shakespeare accessible to all who desired to participate, forming a troupe of performers drawn from all walks of life and social groups. The company, under Emily’s tireless leadership, was also an internationally recognized leader in ecologically sustainable theater practices, relying on the re-use of discarded materials for sets, props, and costumes, and repurposing existing spaces in the community to hold rehearsals and performances.
Her approach to sustainability and community engagement is perhaps best exemplified by the company’s repeated engagement performing full length Shakespearean plays in a local pizza shop to the delight of dedicated audience members and casual customers alike. Recycled Shakespeare Company was her life’s work and its success was her overriding goal. Outside of her work in theater and the arts, Emily led an active life dominated by charitable and compassionate works. It would be impossible to list all of her accomplishments and distinctions, but she will be remembered by those who knew her for her preternatural ability to simply make the world more joyful, beautiful, and bright simply by being herself within it. Joy was an important word for Emily, and although her passing has left her friends and family bereft, she would want them to know that joy, not sadness, defines her life.
She is survived by her husband, Joshua; her parents, Lyn and Joe Rowden; her mother-in-law Joanne Fournier, her father-in-law Gerard Fournier; her brothers, Aaron and Christian Rowden; many uncles, aunts and cousins on both sides of her family; and by her sisters- and brothers-in-law whom she loved equal to all other members of her family.
A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Thursday, July 16, at Notre Dame Catholic Church, Waterville.
An online guestbook may be signed, and memories shared at http://www.familyfirstfuneralhomes.com.
Her family requests that those who wish to do so make a donation to the Recycled Shakespeare Company, 4 Cottage Street, Fairfield, ME 04937.
Arrangements are by Lawry Brothers Funeral and Cremation Care, 107 Main St., Fairfield.
CLINTON — Kevin Marcel Morin, 59, passed away on Monday, July 13, 2020, following his courageous battle with cancer. He was born June 26, 1961, in Skowhegan, to Ellen and Marcel Morin.
Kevin spent his childhood years growing up in the small town of Solon enjoying life in more innocent times. Being the only son and brother to five younger sisters, he shared a very close and protective bond with his family. As a devoted son, Kevin deeply treasured his mother. Also close to his heart were his sisters, beloved son, grandson, many nieces, nephews, aunts and uncles.
Third generation logger Kevin bought his first truck in his early 20s and never looked back, spending most of his life working in the place he loved: the woods of Maine. He spoke with dreamy words of early mornings finding deer eating the boughs from the tops of trees cut the day before, and of the sounds and smells of the deep woods. When he did take a break from working, Kevin enjoyed many happy occasions with friends and family, hiking, camping, and snowmobiling. He also enjoyed laughing, music, and dancing.
On January 30, 2016, Kevin’s family grew to include wife Becke, her five children and their families. Kevin and Becke’s marriage was a true love story. They had found their soul-mate. Sentiments from his stepchildren included that he was supremely unselfish, had a contagious smile, and always was happy and positive. His presence brought a calm and an ease. It was a blessing to have a stepdad who made them feel secure in his love for their mother.
Kevin was baptized as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses January 2, 1984. His love for his creator was evident in his appreciation for spiritual things and his desire to share spiritual truth with others. His zeal to share God’s promises of a better future right here on earth never waned, even during the last months of his life. He looked forward to the future promised in Revelation 21:4, “He will wipe out every tear from their eyes, and death will be no more, neither will mourning nor outcry nor pain be anymore. The former things have passed away.”
Kevin was predeceased by his father Marcel Morin, of Skowhegan.
He is survived by his wife Rebecca Morin, of Clinton; his mother Ellen Morin, of Waterville; his son Andrew Morin, of Skowhegan: his grandson Isaiah Morin, of Hartland; five sisters Susan and her husband Cole Haskell, of Harpswell, Kelly and her husband David LaPoint, of Winslow, Ann Morissette, of Smithfield, Caroline Armstrong, of Skowhegan, and Nikki and her husband Greg Gauthier, of Shawmut; many nieces and nephews.
A memorial talk will be given via Zoom Saturday, July 25th at 2 p.m. (Meeting ID 86955203062, password 20061914)
Arrangements by Dan & Scott’s Cremation & Funeral Service, Skowhegan.
WATERVILLE – Maria Troutman, 80, passed away peacefully on Friday, July 12, 2020, at her home. The oldest of three children, she was born on March 18, 1940, in Salerno, Italy, to Dr. Nicola and Margherita Messina.
In 1952, the family relocated to Panama, where she became a bookkeeper for the United Fruit Company commissary (later Chiquita Brands).
By 1970, she had moved to Boston to study fashion merchandising. A college dormmate read a personals ad placed in a Boston paper by a gentleman from Bangor and insisted that he sounded perfect for Maria. She pestered her until Maria wrote a reply and escorted her to the mailbox to ensure it was sent. After a brief long-distance courtship, Maria married the love of her life, James Moran Troutman, on February 13, 1971, in Brewer. She soon bore three children, James, Michelle and Paul.
Maria worked closely with her husband to manage their various business ventures in Brewer, including an electronics repair shop (Auto Radio and TV Service), an automotive air conditioning and glass repair shop, rental housing, and a decorative light bulb business. Her husband’s untimely death on their 15th wedding anniversary left her devastated but she continued to raise their children and managed the repair shop until 1991.
Maria was small in stature but strong in spirit. She was known for preferring to walk everywhere for her daily errands. She loved to watch classic movies, do crossword puzzles and bake bread. She later moved to Waterville, where she remained active, making a remarkable recovery after a heart attack and a triple bypass in 2006. She continued to walk regularly until congestive heart failure eventually slowed her pace.
Her survivors include her son, James Troutman and wife Sarah, of Montville, daughter Michelle Troutman, son Paul Troutman; brother, Paul Messina, of Annapolis, Maryland, nephew Mike Messina, of Baltimore, Maryland, nephew David Messina and his wife Kendra Perry, of San Mateo, California; and sister, Elena Messina and husband Rick Beagle and their son Quinn Beagle, of Baltimore; her grandchildren, Nicholas Troutman, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Benjamin Troutman and Jonathan Troutman, of Montville.
Condolences to the family may be expressed at BrookingsSmith.com.
Those wishing to remember Maria in a special way may make gifts in her memory to the American Heart Association, Maine Affiliate, Inc., 51 U.S. Route 1, Suite M, Scarborough, ME 04074.
VASSALBORO – Paul Stuart Rogers, 89, passed away on July 13, 2020, following a long battle with various illnesses due to Agent Orange. He was born Feb. 7, 1931.
He had been living at the Maine Veterans Home, Company B, in Augusta, since February 2019. His eldest son, Stephen, was with him when he passed.
Paul was a proud patriot and served his country in the United States Army for 25 years, 11 months, and 12 days and retired as a Master Sergeant. During his military career he traveled to many exotic places, Panama, Germany, Korea, and Vietnam to name a few.
Stateside, he traveled with his family to Massachusetts, South Carolina, Ohio, and New Jersey where he retired. Paul received many awards and citations throughout his military career, including a Bronze Star while in Vietnam.
After Paul retired, he moved back to Maine and began his second career working for the Messalonskee School District, in Oakland, in the maintenance department, as well as driving school bus for many years. He served the school district for 20 years.
Paul was a devoted family man and married his high school sweetheart, Beverly Hood, of Benton, in 1954. He and his wife raised three children: Stephen, Sandra, and Scott. As a military family, moves become no big thing and Paul and his family moved several times before settling down permanently in the Waterville/Winslow area.
Paul was active in the American Legion Post #5 and at one time served as the Post Commander and the Honor Guard. He was also highly active in the Second Baptist Church of Waterville, where he served as a trustee, deacon, and treasurer for many years. Paul loved to sing and used his vocal gift at weddings, funerals, community events and of course his church.
Paul is survived by his wife Beverly. They were married just shy of 66 years; his son, Stephen and wife Pat, daughter, Sandra and fiancé Bill Annis, and son Scott and wife Sherry; four grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren; his brother, James; and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his brother, Phillip; mother and father, Robert and Alma; brothers, Charles, Bobby, Wilson, and David, sisters, Anita, Laura, Patricia, Margery, Lorraine, and Priscilla.
Paul’s funeral service was held July 18, at the North Vassalboro Baptist Church, the Rev. Stephen P. Rogers presiding.
The family asks that in lieu of flowers donations in Paul’s name may be made to the American Cancer Society or the Alzheimer’s Organization.
WATERVILLE – Maurice “Moe” Roy, 77, passed away at the Oak Grove Center, in Waterville, on July 14, 2020, from a battle with cancer. Moe was born on December 2, 1942, in Waterville, the son of Lionel and Lucille (Melanson) Roy.
He attended the school systems in Waterville. Moe’s first job was at Fort Halifax Packing Co., in Winslow. It was not very long that Moe, at the age of 19, decided to hit the road and found work at the Parker House Hotel, in Boston. This started Moe to work at many hotels and restaurants.
Moe enjoyed travelling and found work in Washington D.C., Chicago, Denver, San Francisco, and Reno, Nevada. After several years, Moe came back home to take care of his mother. He also started to work again at Steve’s Restaurant, in Waterville, who would hire him anytime he was in town.
Moe’s personality was one to be desired. Moe spent some years at the Puffin’ Stop working the night shift. He got to know the police and many other workers who were on the night shift which he liked.
Moe is survived by his sister, Patricia Martineau and husband Richard, of Winslow; nephews, Keith Hallee, of Waterville, Kenneth Hallee, of New Mexico, and Anthony Hall, of Minneapolis, Minnesota.
There will be no services.
Arrangements are under the direction and care of Gallant Funeral Home, 10 Elm Street, Waterville.
An online guestbook can be signed, condolences and memories shared at http://www.gallantfh.com.
In lieu of flowers, send donations to the Blessed Sacrament Church, 101 Silver Street, Waterville, ME 04901.
BENTON – Roy F. Vashon, 88, passed away on Sunday, July 14, 2020, at the Maine Veterans Home, in Augusta. Born on July 25, 1931, and raised in Waterville, the son of Raymond and Rose Vashon, he was a lifelong resident of Central Maine.
Roy was a 1949 graduate of Waterville High School. He then enlisted in the Army in August 1952. Roy served our country during the Korean War with the 4345 60th Transportation Company 9th Infantry Division out of Fort Dix, New Jersey. For his service, Roy received the Korean Service Medal with two bronze service stars, the United Nations Service Medal, and the National Defense Service Medal. Upon his separation from the Army, Roy continued his service with the United States Postal Service, retiring in 1992 after 30 years.
On September 25, 1957, he married Marolyn McCarthy. During the 25 years of their marriage Roy and Marolyn lived in Winslow and raised two daughters, Sheila and Pamela. Their home was always a welcoming place for family and friends. Roy had a heart of gold and smile that could light up a room. Summers were spent camping, gardening or pool parties in the backyard.
Marolyn passed away in 1983. On Oct. 8, 1990, Roy opened his heart to marry Meredith E. Cress of Benton. Roy and Meredith built their homestead in Benton and became avid gardeners and landscapers. Roy loved his John Deere tractor mower and would spend hours outdoors. When not mowing, he could often be found fishing in the pond late in the afternoons or tinkering with all sorts of devices and machinery in his garage.
Retirement gave Roy the opportunity to spend an abundant amount of time with his grandchildren. You could always see Pépère at concerts, theater productions, sporting events, and more throughout his grandchildren’s time in school.
Roy is survived by his wife of nearly 30 years, Meredith E. Vashon, of Benton; his daughter, Sheila and husband Scott Nielsen, of Oakland; and grandchildren, Zachary Nielsen, of Thorndike and Zoe Nielsen, of Hermon; daughter, Pamela and husband Gary Moline, of North Port Florida, and grandchildren Justin LaVerdiere, of Fort Myers Florida, and Taylor LaVerdiere, of Naples Florida; stepdaughter, Barbara Zook and husband Ahmed Hassanein, of Charlotte, North Carolina; and grandchildren, James Randolph, of Gloucester, Virginia, John Gannon, of Richmond, Virginia, Megan Major, and Kenneth Zook, both of Murfreesboro, Tennessee; stepdaughter, Susan Tidd and husband Kurt, of Greenville, North Carolina; and grandchildren, Stephanie Getchell, of North Plainfield, New Jersey, and Samantha Getchell, of Westbrook; sister, Jeanne Giguere, of Enfield, Connecticut; along with several nieces and nephews.
Roy was predeceased by both of his parents; his first wife, Marolyn E. Vashon; sisters, Lauriette Maheu, Floriane Cote and brothers, Raymond Vashon, Reginald Vashon.
A graveside committal service was held at the Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Civic Center Dr., in Augusta.
An online guestbook may be signed, and memories shared at http://www.familyfirstfuneralhomes.com.
Arrangements are by Lawry Brothers Funeral and Cremation Care, 107 Main St., Fairfield.
Donations in Roy’s memory may be made to either of the following organizations:Alzheimer’s Association to help create a world without Alzheimer’s and all other Dementia, or your local animal rescue or humane society.
ALBION – Ruth Bradstreet, 74, passed away on April 28, 2020. She was born on March 23, 1945, in Portland, to Ruth (Staples) and Richard Dodge.
Ruth graduated from South Portland High School in 1963 and the University of Maine at Portland in 1967. That same year she met her husband of over 48 years, Ted Bradstreet.
Ruth worked as a professional social worker for 40 years. She spent time as a clinical social worker and in private practice before going to work for the State of Maine in the Division of Licensing and Certification where she worked for 22 years before retiring.
Ruth was predeceased by her parents; her older brother; and her husband.
She is survived by their children Rebecca Bradstreet and Jonathan Bradstreet and Jon’s wife Sherry; her sister-in-law Myra Rosenbaum, her brother-in-law Robert Bradstreet; and some nieces and nephews. A Celebration of Life will be held when it is once again safe to gather together.
Cremation was performed by Direct Cremation of Maine, 182 Waldo Ave., Belfast, ME 04915.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: Maine Public online https://www.mainepublic.org/support-0 or by phone at 1-800-884-1717.
COMFY: Michael Bilinsky, of China Village, captured this red fox napping against a tree.
FOLLOW THE LEADER: Pat Clark, of Palermo, snapped these woodpeckers on a tree near some feeders.
DAZZLING: Tina Richard, of Clinton, photographed this dazzling sunset.
Vassalboro Community School. (source: jmg.org)
At a short July 20 virtual special meeting, Vassalboro School Board members took five important decisions, without dissent.
They accepted the almost $7.97 million 2020-21 school budget voters approved at the annual town meeting June 22 and confirmed at the polls on July 14.
They approved two-year contracts with bus drivers, custodians, food service workers and secretaries. Superintendent Alan Pfeiffer said each provides three percent annual pay increases.
The contract with educational technicians is still under discussion, Pfeiffer said.
The next regular Vassalboro School Board meeting is scheduled for 6 p.m. Aug. 18, in the cafeteria, at Vassalboro Community School.
by Mary GrowA dozen Windsor voters, mostly masked, who spaced themselves around the Windsor School gymnasium were in an agreeable mood at the July 15 town meeting.
Supplemented by four selectmen and several town employees, they voted unanimously in favor of every warrant article except one. That one they voted unanimously against; moderator Jeffrey Frankel even asked for a revote to make sure he hadn’t missed a murmured dissent.
The defeated article was the annual one asking voters to override the state-set limit on the amount of spending from taxation. Assessor’s assistant Vern Ziegler said previously-approved spending for 2020-21 was more than $900,000 under the limit, so the article was unnecessary.
Normally a written vote is required on the spending limit, but Frankel said Governor Janet Mills waived the requirement to minimize contact among voters and staff.
Most of the articles dealt with the 2020-21 budget. Voters agreed to put $446,000 into eight different reserve funds; approved requested expenditures, with public works, administration and the transfer station being the most expensive areas; and bought the public works department a new plow truck for $175,000, with $100,000 coming from the truck replacement reserve fund and $75,000 to be borrowed over three years.
The spending article that took the most time, because each item in it needed an individual vote, was the appropriation of $3,450 to nine out-of-town social service agencies that serve Windsor residents.
Meeting attendees got information about town business from Town Manager Theresa Haskell’s opening statement and from answers to questions raised as articles were briefly discussed.
Haskell said town officials had prepared a pre-Covid-19 budget that they revised downward beginning in mid-March. The budget approved at the meeting had $293 less in expenditures than the 2019-20 budget, she said.
Two articles generated questions about cemeteries, specifically lot sales and maintenance. Each answer included, “Talk to Joyce,” meaning cemetery sexton Joyce Perry. Selectman Ronald Brann praised Perry’s work.
The Veterans’ Memorial Fund got $10,000 from voters. Haskell said with previous private donations and town appropriations there is enough money for the memorial itself; future fund-raising will provide a base, ground work and lighting, followed by a wall and a parking area.
Haskell said the town crew has finished roadside mowing. Voters asked why Routes 32 and 105 were still overgrown.
They’re the State of Maine’s responsibility, Haskell replied. Routes 32 and 17 are state roads, and the state is responsible for year-round maintenance. Route 105 is a state aid road with shared maintenance: the town plows it, but the state does summer work. She blamed Covid-19 for state workers being behind schedule this year.
The town meeting opened a couple minutes after its announced 6:30 p.m. start and adjourned at 7:50 with a round of applause for moderator Frankel.
The July 15 open meeting was preceded by a July 14 written-ballot local election, with no contests on the ballot.
Brann and Richard H. Gray, Jr., were re-elected for three-year terms as selectmen. Successful write-in candidates for the budget committee were Robert Holt, Tom McNaughton and Jeremy St. Onge. Ryan Carver was unopposed for a seat on the Regional School Unit (RSU) #12 school budget committee.
by Mary GrowAt their July 20 meeting, China selectmen approved new Town Manager Becky Hapgood’s proposed town office hours, emphasizing her plan to review them after a few months’ trial.
The new schedule, effective Saturday, Aug. 1, will be as follows: Monday, Wednesday and Thursday the office will be open from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Tuesday hours will be 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Friday hours, 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.; and on the first Saturday of each month, beginning Aug. 1, the office will be open from 8 to 11 a.m.
Wayne Chadwick dissented on the decision, because Hapgood proposes reinstating Saturday morning hours only one Saturday a month, instead of every week as in pre-pandemic days.
Chadwick and Board Chairman Ronald Breton pointed out that in an advisory referendum in November 2019, China voters endorsed Saturday hours. The referendum question asked voters if they preferred to have three town office hours from 4 to 7 p.m. Thursdays, or from 8 to 11 a.m. Saturdays. The result was 490 votes for continuing the then-current Saturday schedule and 180 votes for changing to a late closing on Thursdays.
Donna Mills-Stevens recommended accepting Hapgood’s plan as a temporary Covid-19 measure, to be reconsidered at an appropriate future time.
The other major discussion July 20 was about China Lake’s water quality. Tom Michaud and Scott Pierz came to the meeting to talk about water quality programs in the age of Covid-19; they have received questions about whether the lake is turning green.
Pierz said Kennebec Water District Director of Water Quality Robbie Bickford said Secchi disc readings showed the lake water is nowhere near as clear as it was this time last summer. Pierz cited experts from Colby College and the Maine Department of Environmental Protection who blame the unusually hot weather for poor water quality.
The water level is also high, in China Lake and, Chadwick commented, in other area lakes. Michaud thinks the high water might be a factor, and he questions whether last fall’s drawdown was enough to drain off a significant amount of the phosphorus that feeds algae blooms.
Pierz suggested that China selectmen consider exploring the possibility of acquiring the East Vassalboro outlet dam, which controls the water level, from the Town of Vassalboro. Breton said a first step would be to seek legal advice on buying property located in another town.
Michaud’s report on lake issues was that two programs, gravel road work and Lakesmart recognition for landowners with effective run-off controls, are continuing in modified form this summer, despite Covid-19.
For the Tax Increment Finance Committee, he reported that two bids were received for Phase Two of the causeway project at the head of the east basin and TIF members, Hapgood and others will begin discussions with the low bidder. Phase Two involves shoreline protection and a walkway to complement the new causeway bridge.
In other business July 20, selectmen:
The next regular China selectmen’s meeting is scheduled for Monday evening, Aug. 3.
by Japhet Els“We cannot compete if we are not connected.” Jim Fisher was right: how can Maine expect to compete, to grow and expand, without being better connected to more customers, clients, consumers, and the rest of the world?
The simple answer is, we can’t. And Mr. Fisher’s experience as Town Manager of Deer Isle showed him this.
We’ve been through this before. The onset of the telephone at the turn of the century was a debate about being connected. Landlines were being laid and everybody, no matter where you lived, had the opportunity to get connected. Today’s internet access is similar to telephone access one hundred years ago. The only difference is there are far more underserved, unserved, communities when it comes to affordable high-speed internet access.
The good news is on July 14 more than 75 percent of Maine voters voted for a better internet where we need it most. They are the Deer Isles, Abbots, Pattens, and Port Clydes, where affordable high-speed internet is rare and usually impossible. They are the communities where an affordable high-speed internet connection is far from guaranteed and more than likely costs an arm and leg. They are communities where everyone works two jobs to make ends meet, maybe three or four. They are communities that will capitalize on an affordable, accessible high-speed internet connection to create jobs, connect to more customers, and support families. All we have to do is get it to them.
Question 1 on the ballot jumpstarted this effort.
More than 75 percent of Maine voters demanded that high-speed internet be affordable and accessible no matter where you may live in Maine. Supporting question one set Maine up to connect our most rural, underserved communities to a high-speed connection. And when was the last time more 75 percent of us supported one idea? It’s rare in today’s partisan world, yet Mainers chose not to be divided, instead finding common ground around investing in our collective and connected future.
When you’re talking about high-speed internet, you’re talking about small businesses plugging into a competitive market. You’re talking about Mainers connecting with their doctors via video conference from their kitchen tables instead of driving many miles for a simple check-up. You’re talking about our kids connecting to their assignments and class resources right from their bedrooms, not from a Wal-Mart parking lot. You’re talking about connecting families and making sure, even during a pandemic, we can reach the ones we love through a modern high-speed internet connection.
Mr. Fisher reminds us that information is important to everyone these days, even fisherman. “Over 15 percent of the workforce is in lobstering, fishing – that’s a tremendously important export industry for us and they rely on the internet for pricing information, communication, particularly now,” Fisher says. “It’s been said that when a business wants to expand in Deer Isle it usually means they’re leaving…and those that stay end up going to extraordinary lengths to acquire a high-speed connection.”
There are many Jim Fishers in Maine and lobstering isn’t the only business impacted by a modern internet connection. Our rural communities require high-speed internet today and passing question one on July 14 allowed Maine to take the first step to a more connected future.
This is only the first-step. We’re on the right road, no doubt. But we have more steps to take to get more of Maine connected. To all of those who support Question One on the ballot, thank you. We have more work to do we look forward to getting to it with your help.
Born in Waterville, camp in Kents Hill, and family in Bath, Japhet Els is Outreach Director for AARP Maine working on the issues impacting the 50+ community and their families including access to affordable high-speed internet.
China town manager Rebecca Hapgood. (photo by Eric W. Austin)
As China’s new town manager, Becky Hapgood is taking over the position at one of the most challenging times in the town’s history. With big projects on the horizon, like the Causeway Phase 2 construction planned for later this summer, and the COVID-19 pandemic making all aspects of life more complicated, Hapgood is facing a host of responsibilities right out of the gate not usually associated with being a small-town manager.
Thankfully, Hapgood has a number of factors in her favor. She’s worked at the China town office for nearly three decades and was recognized for 25 years of service in a ceremony last year. During that time, she has served under three town managers in China and watched at least that many come and go in nearby towns. This experience has given her a perspective on the job not possessed by most who take up the position. I asked her what she has learned.
“Always be open and transparent,” she says. “Have conversations. Listen to what people say. Those are my big things. Transparency is key. Having communications — not only with the townspeople, but with the employees, because the employees are what back you up. They are your support system.”
Luckily, she’s feeling pretty good about her team at the town office. “I love our people,” she gushes enthusiastically. “We have some very top-notch people.”
It helps that she already thinks of the town of China as home. Growing up here, her parents opened and operated the Back’s Dairy Bar, in South China, for many years. After high school, she attended Thomas College, in Waterville, and graduated with a degree in business management. With this experience and education, one thing she understands is the importance of supporting local businesses.
“My father always used to drive home that it was sometimes difficult to do business in China,” she recalls. “It was something that I always remember as a kid growing up. When you have a business, there are always hurdles, but to have somebody work in conjunction with you … or just help you to access things you need to start up a business or to help your business grow [is an important part of the town manager job].”
The COVID-19 pandemic has also created new difficulties not encountered by most of her predecessors. The risks posed by the virus have turned mundane activities and services offered by the town office into new and unique challenges.
It doesn’t help that the town office is busier than ever, partially because one staff person is currently out on leave, which has left the office shorthanded, but also because the demands on the town office staff have increased in the two and a half decades Hapgood has been there.
“The community is far busier,” she says. “We just can’t keep up. We can barely do our day-to-day stuff. We’ve got an election coming up in July and there’s no time to breathe! [With] the election, and Dennis [Heath, current town manager,] getting done, we’re just keeping our heads above water.”
And in the current health crisis, the recent election presented a special challenge. Since the annual business meeting was canceled because of the pandemic, all of the items normally decided at the meeting were on the written ballot instead.
“[We’re] trying to figure out how to get a mass amount of people into a voting booth when we now have a written ballot that is four pages — and that’s just the municipal ballot,” she says.
The pandemic creates other, unique challenges for town offices holding elections. Officials handing out ballots will need to stand behind Plexiglass shields, and volunteers manning the voting machines need to maintain a safe distance at all times. Residents waiting to vote will need to be kept out of the sun while still observing proper social distancing. All of this adds additional complications to an already hectic day.
Things weren’t exactly easy even before the current crisis. “The amount of time needed to invest in what we do to prepare for an election is so much more than it was even ten years ago,” says Hapgood.
One of the other trends that Hapgood has observed over the last several decades is a drop in local community involvement. Volunteers are harder to find than they used to be. Town committees are sometimes sparsely populated and filling vacancies is more difficult. Hapgood has been in a unique place to observe this alarming trend, in her position as town clerk, as a volunteer coach for China youth athletics, and as one of the founders of the China Community Days event, which was skipped this summer for the first time in 17 years.
“We’re finding out more now that people aren’t necessarily into volunteering and participating,” she says. “We used to see a lot of volunteers, whether it be for athletics or things here [at the town office]. Our volunteer numbers are dwindling. People have other focuses in their lives.”
And that was before the current complications resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Just as a coach in youth [athletics] over the years…the numbers have decreased steadily. That’s why, back in the day, we started China Community Days,” she explains, “because we could see that [civic engagement] was slipping, and this gave us an avenue to bring everybody together.” Even that effort is struggling though. “It’s evident within the China Community Days volunteers,” she admits with a sigh.
More than anything, Hapgood would like to see that trend reverse. “I am all about the community,” she says. “This is where I grew up…and [I’m] very invested in the community. I like to see where the kids go off to school and see them return [and] watch their kids grow up…and welcoming people back to town when they move back. Those are the important things. Those are the connections we need here — we need more of them!”
After her many years dedicated to the town of China, it’s no surprise that Hapgood is taking over the town manager position with a great deal of community support. In my research for this article, I invited local residents to leave comments on Facebook about their interactions with Becky over the years. Here are a few of the things they shared. (The following comments have been lightly edited for spelling errors and readability.)
“Becky Hapgood always has a ‘positive can-do and super helpful’ manner in approaching any question I have ever posed to her at the town office,” says Christine Castner, a South China resident who grew up in China Village. “That attitude has been the over-riding impression I have had with any interaction with Becky.”
“Hunted and vacationed in China for years,” comments Paul Lucas. “When the opportunity came in 2006, we bought a home and moved to China. On our first visit to the China town office, Becky introduced herself and helped us by explaining what we needed to do to register vehicles, where to vote, about the Homestead Act, and directions to the Registry of Motor Vehicles for driver’s licenses. When my wife, Jane, and I left the town office that day, we knew we had made the right decision moving to China. Becky is always polite, professional and helpful. She will always take a moment to smile and say hello. A wonderful choice for town manager. Congratulations.”
Wendy Paine says, “Becky has always taken calls, texts, and private messages on weekends and after hours. She totally didn’t need to do this but always has! And [she has] always encouraged people to reach out to her anytime!”
For Becky Hapgood, the town of China is her life and she’s always on duty. “If we’re in Hannaford, people stop me all the time and ask questions — and it’s no big deal!” she insists. “Whether it’s ten o’clock at night or eight o’clock in the morning, that’s what I’m here for.”
The lengths she will go to seem, in fact, to have no bounds. Bunny Caldwell told me, “Becky has always been great to do business with. She helped us register our Maine dogs from Florida, and one year even chipped in a couple of bucks of her own that we owed in our taxes. We paid her back as soon as we got home. She always is friendly and has a big smile for everyone.”
Resident Kim Leighton Matthews expressed similar sentiments: “She has always gone [above and] beyond to help solve any problems we may have had with voter registration, a work permit for [our] teenage daughter, registering our dog, etc…” she says in a comment. “It has always felt less like dealing with bureaucracy and more like neighbor helping neighbor with Becky.”
Another resident, Michelle Bourque, saw Matthews’ comment and agreed wholeheartedly: “You nailed it: ‘More like neighbor helping neighbor with Becky.’”
Jeanne Marquis, who lives in China Village and serves as volunteer coordinator for the China for a Lifetime Committee, a local group that supports community activism, confirms Hapgood’s commitment to helping others. “Becky has connected local residents who need a little help to the China for a Lifetime Committee,” she says. “It is always in confidence so I can’t tell you the details, just that the individuals are very appreciative. She has a big heart!”
Another resident, Terrie Farris, remembers her time in China youth athletics under Coach Hapgood. “Becky was my J.V. basketball coach at China schools,” she recalls, “and she is someone I will never forget. She was always patient, supportive, understanding, caring and compassionate. She put her all into helping us become better players. She was always upbeat, positive — a can-do attitude with so much love in her heart to share with us all. I think it’s important for a coach to be able to connect with her players on a personal level and she was always tuned into us all as individuals. Becky is someone I’ve never forgotten or lost touch with as I’ve grown into an adult and a mother. She is just fabulous and I love seeing her expand on her career path.”
According to longtime resident Martha Wentworth, the new town manager also has a mischievous sense of humor. “Becky is a great prankster,” she says. “That has got to make your article. I have a story for you if you need one, but I’m only one in a pool of many China residents that have been schooled by this fine lady. I have yet to get her back.” Let’s just say, one of the stories involves wanted posters plastered all over a parking lot and another involves cars filled with packing peanuts!
Angela Nelson, who has worked for municipalities in Palermo and Sidney, and is now taking over the town clerk position in China, remembers leaning on Hapgood’s experience over the years. “When I first started in the municipality world in March of 2012,” she says, “Becky was the friendly voice on the other end of the phone, eager to help in any way she can. She even stopped by my office to help me with my first ever accounts payable warrant. Now, here we are eight years later and I have the privilege to work with her every day! Her vast knowledge of China and municipal government is irreplaceable. Congratulations, Becky.”
Michelle Laweryson Presby seems to summarize the broad community feelings about Becky Hapgood when she commented: “Becky was always a talented and much-appreciated high school sport photographer – not only for her athletes, but for the entire team. Becky always goes above and beyond in everything she does personally and professionally!”
As you have probably concluded already if you’ve read this far, Becky is facing a tough time ahead as China’s new town manager, with big projects on the horizon, an uncertain future with COVID-19, and a trending lack of civic engagement that is impacting many small towns in Maine and around the country – but she’s also taking on the position with an overwhelming and unprecedented level of local community support.
Contact the author at ericwaustin@gmail.com.
Voters had two questions remaining from their June 22 open town meeting to answer at the polls July 14, local elections and the annual school budget referendum.
Town Clerk Cathy Coyne reported the results of uncontested elections were as follows:
The $7.97 million school budget approved June 22 for fiscal year 2020-21 was confirmed by a vote of 624 yes to 124 no. Superintendent Alan Pfeiffer said before the June 22 meeting that the new budget, which is barely higher than the 2019-20 budget, will have no significant effect on the tax rate.
by Mary GrowChina voters approved the entire warrant for the 2020 annual town meeting at the polls July 14, including the 2020-21 municipal budget and related items. This year’s voting was by written ballot because the town’s quorum requirement of 118 registered voters is incompatible with coronavirus-mandated limits on the number of people assembled in one place at the same time.
Town Clerk Becky Hapgood said the most popular item was funding for China’s three volunteer fire departments and China Rescue, approved by 876 voters with 76 opposed. Only one other question got more than 800 supporting votes: the question authorizing the town manager and selectmen to apply for grants and to use Tax Increment Finance funds for matching money when required got 809 votes, with 132 voters opposed.
Least popular was the annual appropriation for FirstPark, the Oakland-based regional business park that China joined when it was first created. It was authorized by 525 voters, with 459 voting no.
Voting was conducted in the former portable classroom behind the town office, with a large white tent outside to protect those waiting in line. Hapgood said the tent did not collapse during the heavy rain in the late afternoon and early evening.
China voters, along with voters in Belgrade, Oakland, Rome and Sidney, were asked to confirm or reject the Regional School Unit 18 budget for 2020-21 approved at a June open meeting, and to authorize the RSU to issue bonds for school renovations. Hapgood did not have the local count on that ballot as of almost midnight; an hour later, the town’s website showed each question was approved by a margin of more than 500 votes.