SOLON & BEYOND: I’ve been feuding with my computer

Marilyn Rogers-Bull & Percyby Marilyn Rogers-Bull & Percy
grams29@tds.net
Solon, Maine 04979

Sorry I haven’t had anything in the paper for a few weeks, I have been feuding with this computer, big time, so I am crossing my fingers, and praying that it goes this week!

When I wrote one of the columns, I think the following news didn’t get in about a couple of items from the Solon Elementary School. Bus questions or concerns? If you have general questions or concerns? If you have general questions about busing, please call our transportation Director Lorie Agren at 431-8812. When your children are on the bus and you have concerns about pick-up or drop-off, please call Bonnie White in the morning at 696-3100 or Candy LeBeau in the afternoon at 635-2209, and they can radio the bus driver.

Staff member in new position is Mrs. Amanda Deleonardis who has moved from her position as a Title I ed tech to a teaching position as a learning interventionist at our school. This new position, funded by coronavirus relief funds, provides us with more support for students needing interventions in literacy and math to help them to be successful.

I am pretty sure that I might have sent this before, but just to be sure, it is: Need a Christmas present? Please order by November 15 to allow for timely delivery as there are delays with USPS. Contact Emily Quint 635-2231 quint@tdstelme.net.

The following are for sale: Embden Town of Yore book, $40 ( +$ 5.50 if shipping is necessary) Original price was $60; South of Lost Nation book with Index $20 ($4.50 if shipping is necessary) South of Lost Nation ( Index only $3 ( $4 if shipping is necessary) Afghans (2004 Bicentennial) $25. ( +$9++ if shipping necessary) Embden Map (Historical) $2 + shipping, and Embden Map ( Streets and Roads) $ 2) .

The above is all the recent news that I could round up. I did start up the “teacher-less painting club a month ago at the Skowhegan Adult Ed classes, several people have asked how many years I have been doing that. I really don’t know for sure but I found some information on a poster I had made about that club. It was an article I had written for The Town Line back on April 13, 2006, with a picture they had taken of club members at that time. That was a meeting when we were going to come up with a name for this club, so it has been going on for some time before that. I came up with the crazy idea of calling it a teacher-less-painting club. When I arrived the first night I was given the attendants folder with M. Rogers, “Instructor” on the cover. The first night those who attended were, Suzanne Currier , Shirley Foxwell, Linda Sullivan, Gerda Pilz Betty Dow, Dana Hall, Linwood Turcotte, Peter Foxwell and me. There have been many, many wonderful painters and friends that I have met over those 15 years and I hope they have enjoyed it as well.

The times have changed so much in the last few years and when I started going through old newspapers it was very evident. There used to be so much local news about what everyone was doing, etc., but that has all changed. I still enjoy trying to find different things to write about…… and when I found this old, old letter that I received back in 2007, it made me feel really good. It is from Ron Colby, a person I had never met, and still have not. He wrote, “Hi Marilyn, My name is Ron Quimby, I live in China, Maine. I am married and have a 14-year-old daughter who attends Erskine Academy. I wanted to write to let you know that I love all of your articles in The Town Line. I work at China Middle School and at a store at the head of China Lake. I always grab a paper as soon as it is delivered to our store and look for the Somerset County News where I know I’ll see an article from you and Percy, too. I enjoy all your news from the Solon area. You are a very interesting person and I hope you keep writing for a long time. Keep up the good work! Thank you. Ron Quimby.”

I was very pleased when I came across that old letter and if he is still reading my columns, as I hope he does (when I get the best of this machine of mine and it gets printed). My many, many Thank you goes out to Ron Quimby.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, October 28, 2021

JENNIE E. ROOD

WATERVILLE – Jennie E. (Noyes) Rood, 93, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 22, 2021, at MaineGeneral Rehab and LTC at Glenridge, in Augusta. Jennie was born in Waterville to William (Pa) and Leola (Corbett) Noyes on July 16, 1928.

She was the third of six children. She grew up on a farm and attended schools in Albion.

Jennie married Harold Rood on August 3, 1946, and a few years later, moved to Waterville. They enjoyed going dancing throughout the years. He would take her once a month out to eat with the Sunshine Club.

She belonged to the Winslow Baptist Church. She also loved going swimming at the Boys Club, and together they were in a bowling league. Family gatherings were very special; to her and all the delicious food she cooked.

Jennie was predeceased by her parents; her husband, Harold who passed away on March 24, 2016; her three sisters, Kathryn, Roberta, and Glenice; her two brothers, William, and Keith; her brothers-in-law, Mel Ireland, John Stuart, and James Mayo; her sister-in-law, Ruth Noyes; her son-in-law, Carly Hodges; her grandson, Eric Rood.

Jeannie is survived by her five children, Nancy Hodges, Susan Rood, Shelley Rood, Kimberly Noyes, and William Rood; her daughter-in-law, Linda; her grandchildren, Karla, Timothy, Jennie Lynn, Aaron, Melissa, Nathan, Devon, and Jared; her 13 great-grandchildren, her sisters-in-law, Mary Lou Noyes, Ellen Rood and her husband, Ben Bolin, Pearl Fuller, and Rosalie Rood; and several nieces, and nephews.

There will be no public services.

Arrangements are in the care of the Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 107 Main St. Fairfield where condolences may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the website at http://www.familyfirstfuneralhomes.com.

IDA L. VARNEY

WATERVILLE – Ida Louise (Gould) Varney, 94, passed away peacefully at Oak Grove Center, in Waterville, on Thursday, September 30, 2021, following a long and well-lived life. Ida was born in Waltham, Massachusetts, on June 1, 1927, the eldest child of James K. and Maude L. (Reynolds) Gould. Shortly thereafter, the family moved to Waterville and four more siblings were born. Ida was educated in Waterville schools, and as the eldest, spent much of her free time caring for her three brothers and sister.

Ida spent more than 20 years at Diamond Match Co., in Oakland, and then nearly another 20 years at C.F. Hathaway Shirt Factory, in Waterville, where her attention to detail brought her to the Sample Room. Her job was to perfectly prepare the shirts for presentation, examining every seam and clipping every stray thread.

She married Silas Daniel Varney on March 4, 1950, and they bought a house on the Nowell Road, in Winslow, known by everyone as “The Farm.” They divorced in 1962.

While Ida never had any children, she took care of all her nieces and nephews from time to time and they adored spending time at The Farm with her, camping at Abnaki Campground, in Canaan, or travelling New England visiting family.

Ida was predeceased by her brothers, James K. Gould, of East Hartford, Connecticut, Burton I. Gould, of Winslow, and Alfred L. Gould, of Waterville.

She is survived by her sister, Mary Veilleux, formerly of Winslow, and currently a resident at Oak Grove Center, in Waterville; two sisters-in-law, Ana Gould, of Elgin, Texas, and Ellen Gould, of Waterville.

There was an interment ceremony on Saturday, October 23, at Pine Grove Cemetery, in Waterville.

GERARD P. FORTIN

SOUTH CHINA – Gerard “Jerry/Gerry” P. Fortin, 86, passed away on Thursday, October 7, 2021, at home. He was born October 26, 1934, in Augusta, to Raynold and Annette (Demers) Fortin.

He graduated from Augusta schools. He worked at McLellan’s Department Store, in Maine and Connecticut, where he met his future wife. He had to get his parent’s permission to marry! They were married October 24, 1955, he could not wait those two days! They celebrated 65 years of marriage last year.

He also worked at Wasson’s A & W, in Augusta, Augusta Supply Co., and retired from Kirschner’s, also in Augusta, after 28 years.

He enjoyed cooking (his coleslaw was the best!), fishing, hunting, woodworking (there were some of his photo/art frames hanging in the Pershing Building (N.Y.C.) in the 80s and 90s.

He was kind of gruff and had strong opinions sometimes, but was loved by all. He had a sense of humor that was his own!

He is survived by his children: Joan (Tim) Chaffee, of Clinton, Audrey and Pepper Fortin, of South China, Neal (Stacy) Fortin, of Riverside, California; grandchildren: Cheslie (Eric) Kaherl, of Winthrop. Elizabeth (Xavier) Fonseca, of Ontario, California; great-grandchildren, Katie, Jessica and Michael Kaherl, Winthrop, Anne Fonseca, of Ontario, California; several nieces and nephews; cousin, Jeanette Michaud, of Augusta, and South West Harbor; cousin-in-law, Kermit (Sandi) Staples, Connor TWP.

He was predeceased by sister, Cecile Chaisson.

Burial will be held on Sunday, November 7, at 1 p.m., at the China Village Cemetery, 148 Neck Road, China.

TERRI CRAFT

FAIRFIELD – Terri “Lindy” Craft, 60, passed away on Saturday, October 9, 2021, following a courageous battle with liver disease. She was born on February 4, 1961, to Elizabeth Shirley Lyons Tuckson, in Hartland.

After graduating from Skowhegan High School in 1979, Terri joined the United States Navy. She also worked as a CRMA in the healthcare field for many years and worked at MBNA, in Belfast, in customer satisfaction.

Terri cherished the time she spent with her family. She was a loving and proud mother and grammy and she loved attending and supporting anything in which her children or grandchildren were involved. Terri loved baking, knitting, singing, shopping, trying new things, and making memories with family and friends. She will be remembered as being selfless, kind, and loving — but also as a great cook. The ocean was one of her favorite places as the sound of the waves and smell of the ocean air brought her peace. She was an active member of New Beginnings Church and loved Jesus.

Terri is survived by her children, Jessica A. Young, of Lewiston, Rebecca M. Damron and her husband Jesse, of Benton, and Christopher M. Chrysler, of Wells; her brothers Wayne Tuckson, Eric Hussey, and Peer J.; and her sisters Tammy Smoleroff and Billie Perkins; her grandchildren, Kiera-Caley and Kelsey Young, Ayanna Souimaniphanh, Justise, Cadance, Eliya and Jayce Damron; many nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her grandson, Dominic Chrysler.

Terri’s graveside service will be held at the Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 163 Mount Vernon Rd., Augusta, on Monday, November 1, at noon. There will be a celebration of her life immediately following graveside services at New Beginnings Church, 392 Main St., Waterville. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited.

Donations can be sent to Lawry Brothers Funeral Home at the address below.

Arrangements are in the care of the Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 107 Main St., Fairfield, where memories may be shared, and an online register book signed by visiting http://www.familyfirstfuneralhomes.com.

Flowers can be sent to New Beginnings Church at the address above, or in lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the family to assist with the cost of funeral expenses.

EDWARD O. GREENE

WATERVILLE – Edward Omar Greene, 96, of Waterville, passed on Wednesday, October 13, 2021. He was born May 5, 1925, in Benton, the son of Kleber and Madelyn Greene.

Edward was predeceased by his wife Edith Greene, and son Wayne Greene, siblings Arthur Greene, Ethel (Greene) King; and several other nieces, nephews and cousins.

Ed is survived by a family that adored him to include daughter Heidi Montuori, and husband John, daughter Nancy Waraskevich; grandchildren Joey Waraskevich, Jared Waraskevich, John Montuori III, Amanda Montuori, Jason Greene, Casey Greene; great-grandchildren, Riley Waraskevich, Harper Waraskevich and Elanor Greene.

Edward’s work ethic was second only to his dedication to his family. He was employed for many years by Waterville Senior High School in maintenance and security. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather and friend. His interests included automobiles and airplanes.

Edward, “Ed”, “Eddie”, “Dad”, “Grampy”, “Pop Pop” loved life and everyone he encountered. He saw the good in everyone and was always quick to strike up a conversation. His gift of “gab” is a proud trait passed down to many of his family.

A private memorial service for the family was held on October 23.

Arrangements made by Dan And Scott Adams Cremation, Skowhegan. In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made in Ed’s name to the: SMA Foundation atsmafoundation.org.

PEARLIE WEBB

CLINTON – Pearlie “Marie” (Gray) Webb, 94, peacefully passed away on Thursday, October 14, 2021. She was born in Stonington on April 26, 1927, and was the seventh of nine children in James W. Gray Sr. and Sadie “Kathleen” (Cleveland) Gray’s family.

She attended Stonington schools until her freshman year, at which time she left school to care for her mother and younger siblings while her mother underwent cancer treatment. She later received her G.E.D the same year that her daughter graduated high school.

Marie worked as a waitress before meeting the handsome widower, Russell A. Webb, of Oceanville. They were married on September 21, 1952, at the Church on the Hill, on Deer Isle. With this marriage she gained two stepsons, Wallace H. and David H. The following year, their daughter Joan W. was born.

For several years Marie traveled across New England with Russell as he worked as an electrician. In 1959 they purchased a home in Clinton and settled down. Her home was filled with homemade meals and desserts which were shared with others in the community who were without families or facing difficulties. She was positive, independent, and progressive in her thoughts and deeds throughout her life.

She was a member of the Brown Memorial Methodist Church for 62 years and took on many roles. First as a Sunday school and vacation bible school teacher, assisting with events at the church and the food booth at the Clinton Lions Club Fair. She ran the thrift shop at the church for many years. Marie proudly held her position at the Candy Cane Christmas fair overseeing “Grannie’s Attic”. She was the official carrot peeler for the turkey pie suppers held by the church. A longtime member of the Methodist Women’s Group. She was also a member of the Clinton Senior Citizens Group and attended meetings of the Clinton Historical Society.

Marie supplemented the family income by sewing and had a knack for tailoring garments to fit perfectly. She made her daughter’s school clothing every year and there was always a new nightgown to wear Christmas Eve. She taught her sewing skills in the Extension group when first moving to Clinton. She was a knitter, and crafter/artist in multiple mediums. She spent sunny days maintaining her flowerbeds and property.

She loved the Wednesday soup and lunch day held at the United Methodist Church prior to Covid.

She was predeceased by her parents, husband Russell in 2003, stepson, Wallace and his wife Margaret, step-grandchild, Scott D. Webb, brothers Guy, James Jr., Gordon, Alton, Carroll, and Everett “Boog” Gray, and sister Norma Andrews.

Marie is survived by her daughter, Joan W. Bryson (Michael); stepson, David H. Webb; step-grandchildren Louise Chapman (Calvin), Michael Webb (Debbie) and Lisa Woodside (Jeff), David R. Webb; brother, Lyle (Terry) Gray; sister-in-law Elizabeth Gray.

Her graveside service and burial will be at Greenwood Cemetery, on Oceanville Road, at 2 p.m., on Thursday, October 28. 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.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a memorial donation to the Brown Memorial United Methodist Church, Box 58, Clinton, ME 04927, or the Clinton Fire and Rescue Department, in care of Clinton Town Office, 27 Baker St., Clinton, ME 04927.

WARREN G. HUNT

Warren G. Hunt, 79, of South China, formerly of Wakefield Massachusetts, passed away on Monday, October 18, 2021. Warren was born in Medford, Massachusetts, the son of the late Mildred (Jones) Huntand, and was raised in Wakefield, Massachusetts.

He was a graduate of School Of St. Philip-Neri Boston and then attended Boston University. Warren was a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corp where he believed Parris Island and the Corp shaped his life tremendously.

Mr. Hunt’s career spanned 35 years with the Lahey Clinic Medical Center. His career began when the hospital was in the city of Boston. He was heavily involved with the transformation and relocation of the hospital to its then new location on Mall Rd., in Burlington, Massachusetts. After years of day to day operations and expansions at Burlington, Mr. Hunt was assigned to his most recognized achievement for the organization. He created and developed Lahey Clinic Northshore, Peabody, Massachusetts.

After years of managing day to day operations and expansions at the Peabody location, Mr. Hunt retired in 2004 as Senior Vice President of the Lahey Clinic Organization. His contribution to Lahey Clinics success was recognized when he was named a member of the Emeritus Staff.

Warren is the father of Mark W. Hunt and Jennifer, of Colebrook, New Hampshire, and Alysia and Chip Farrington, of China; grandfather of Madyx Kennedy and Sarah Hunt; brother of Richard Hunt and Carol, of Littleton, New Hampshire, Dr. Donald J. Hunt, of St. Johnsbury, Vermont, Kenneth Hunt, of North Reading, Massachusetts, and the late Rosemary Hunt, David Hunt and Walter Hunt; many nieces and nephews.

Family and friends are invited to gather and share his memories in the Barile Family Funeral Home, 482 Main St., (RT28) Stoneham, Massachusetts, on Friday October 29, 2021, from 4 to 8 p.m. Parking attendants and elevator available. Interment is private.

Please consider donations in memory of Warren to Lahey Clinic, 41 Mall Road Burlington, MA 01805.

RICHARD E. FLICK

VASSALBORO – Richard Edward Flick Sr., 87, passed away at his residence on Tuesday, October 19, 2021. Richard was born in Westbrook on October 4, 1934, the son of Samuel and Mary Flick.

Richard attended Greely High School where he played several sports. Richard entered the U.S. Army of which he made a career. He attended many military colleges and received several degrees and honors. The highest honor he received was receiving the rank of lieutenant colonel.

Richard enjoyed many things in life. He enjoyed doing jigsaw puzzles, watching UMaine and Army sport teams, and could give you directions to anywhere in the state, from anywhere in the state.

Richard was an avid hunter and fisherman. He also could not resist going to the casinos.

Richard was predeceased by his parents, Samuel and Mary, brother, Samuel Flick Jr., sister, June Greer, and a daughter, Gail Ann Banarer.

He is survived by his wife, Carol; sons, Richard Flick Jr. and Esther, of South Paris, Daniel Flick, of Naples, Thunder Flick and Brenda, of Arundel, Timothy Flick, of Windham; step-son, Craig Glueck; step-daughter, Lauren Glueck; and son-in-law, Robert Banrer; several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.

A graveside service was held on Wednesday, October 27, at the Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 163 Mt. Vernon Road, Augusta, ME 04330.

Arrangements are under the direction and care of Gallant Funeral Home.

An online guestbook may be signed, condolences and memories shared at http://www.gallantfh.com.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Richards honor to The Wounded Warrior Project, http://www.support.woundedwarriorproject.org.

JEAN A. GAUTHIER

WINSLOW – Jean Ann Gauthier, 66, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 19, 2021, at home. Born in Waterville on June 18, 1955, Jean was the daughter of the late Alphie and Juliette Gauthier.

She graduated from Waterville High School and attended Thomas College, inWaterville. Jean was a dedicated employee at MaineGeneral Medical Center for 40 years. Beginning as a cafeteria employee, she worked her way up to Director of Food and Nutrition. She was responsible for implementing the “Room Service Program”. She was well respected by her fellow workers.

Jean was a big sports fan, especially the Boston teams. She was loved by her very close friends and loved her monthly dinner dates with “the girls”. She was a communicant and Eucharistic Minister for Corpus Christi Parish, in Waterville.

Jean was a selfless person, always putting other people’s needs above hers. She will be missed dearly by all who knew her.

She is survived by her sisters, Alice Russell and husband Dan, and Fay Gauthier; her brother, Alan Gauthier and wife Robbin; nieces Liane Norsworthy and husband Travis, and Jessica and husband Mark; her three great-nephews and one-great niece; several aunts and cousins.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Saturday, October 23, at Notre Dame Church, in Waterville. Burial was immediately following at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, in Waterville.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Veilleux and Redington Funeral Home, please visit http://www.veilleuxfuneralhome.com to share your memories and condolences with Jean’s family.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the MaineGeneral Harold Alfond Center for Cancer.

THERESA A. LECLERC

WATERVILLE – Theresa D. Leclerc, 78, passed away on Tuesday, October 19, 2021, at her home. She was born in Waterville to the late Fredrick and Christine (Rancourt) Berard on July 23, 1943.

Theresa attended grade schools in Waterville and graduated high school from Mount Merici Academy, in Waterville, in 1961. She worked briefly at C.F. Hathaway Shirt Factory, in Waterville, before beginning her career and working her way up to management at New England Telephone Company, where she worked for 36 years, until her retirement in 1997. During this time, Theresa met and married Marc Leclerc, of Lac Etchemin, Québec, Canada, in February 1965, and had two daughters.

They enjoyed a full life together and enjoyed each other’s company. In their earlier years, they attended many hockey games, played cards; especially cribbage and loved to socialize with family and their friends.

Family meant everything to Theresa. She grew up in a loving family with three younger brothers. They enjoyed going on camping trips, family outings and shared lots of laughs together. She was an avid reader and volunteered with the Maine Literary Program, teaching adults to read. She loved listening to a variety of music to relax and unwind from the Bee Gees and John Denver to André Bocelli and James Brown. She was also involved with the Catholic Church as a Eucharistic Minister and Lector at St. Francis de Sales Church, in Waterville.

Theresa is survived by her husband Marc; her two daughters and their spouses, Lisa and Rodney Scruggs, of Maryland, and Colette and Robert Rugg, of Connecticut; three grandchildren Laura Scruggs, Natalie Rugg and Olivia Rugg; brothers Fredrick C. “Butch” Berard Jr. and sister-in-law Jean, of Oakland, Jerome “Jerry” Berard and sister-in-law Marie, of Fairfield, and Robert “Bobby” Berard, of Freeport; many, cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.

Theresa loved her Leclerc family dearly. Hercules and Laura (Gosselin) Leclerc were blessed with nine children: four girls and five boys. She is survived by her sisters-in-law, Colette and Migonne “Mimi” and her brother-in-law, Gaston.

She was predeceased by Migonne, Solange, Marcel, Evon and Claude.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Tuesday, October 26, 2021, at Notre Dame Catholic Church, Silver Street, in Waterville.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Veilleux and Redington Funeral Home and Cremation Service; 8 Elm Street, Waterville. Please visit http://www.veilleuxfuneralhome to share condolences with Theresa’s family.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Theresa’s name may be made to the Greater New England MS Society, http://www. nationalms society.org/Chapters/MAM/Donate or The Harold Alfond Center for Cancer Care, http://www.give.mainegeneral.org/2020-redesign/2020-ways-to-give—make-a-gift.

BASIL B. BARNES SR.

ALBION – Basil B. Barnes Sr., 76, of Albion, passed away on Thursday, October 21, 2021, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Augusta. He was born in Freedom on April 10, 1945, the son of the late Gardner C. and Verda (Bailey) Barnes.

He was born just a half mile from where he began his lifelong journey as a dairy farmer in Albion.

Basil was a self-taught businessman. He was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting and fishing; a true woodsman that knew his way through the forest. He was a very skilled cribbage player, and would often comment, “sit right down here, I won’t charge you extra for the lesson.”

Basil could put a smile on anyone’s face. He loved his grandchildren very much. He taught them how to run tractors, and equipment, and how to stack hay bales and firewood. And oh, how he loved to take them fishing. “But Grampy, I didn’t catch any,” they would say, and he would tell them, “You’re holding your mouth wrong.” Basil’s jokes and pokes were well known by all his closest family and friends.

Besides his parents, he was predeceased by his brother, Gardner M. Barnes.

Basil is survived by his sons, Basil B. Barnes Jr. and his wife, Jennie, and Ricky A. Barnes and his wife, Dawn; his companion of 27 years, Marvel Hutchings; his aunts, Rena Harding, and Natalie Coro; many grandchildren; great-grandchildren.

A graveside service was held on Wednesday, October 27, at Maple Grove Cemetery, in Albion, with Pastor Brad Taylor officiating.

Arrangements are in the care of the Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 107 Main St., Fairfield where condolences may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the website at http://www.familyfirstfuneralhomes.com.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Basil’s memory to Albion Christian Church Burial Fund, to help those who have lost a loved one.

BEVERLY MAHEU

CHINA VILLAGE – Beverly (Bragdon) Maheu, 92, passed away on Saturday, October 2, 2021, in her home. She was born on April 9, 1929, the daughter of Kenneth and Dorothy Bragdon.

She is survived by her children, James K. Allen (Ginny), of Winslow, Mary Margo Allen, of China Village; stepchildren Lyn (Judy), Leanne( Terry), Lee; step-daughter-in-law, Becky Maheu; seven grandchildren, Benjamin, James (Yuko), Andrea (Jason), Stephanie (Arne) Brandie, Nathan (Kerry) and Spencer; several great-grandchildren; and niece Kim; and nephew Jay.

She was predeceased by her parents, husband Larry, stepson Lance Maheu and sister Margaret Shoemaker.

At her request there will be no service.

Memorial donations may be made to the China Food Pantry at 1320 Lakeview Dr., China, ME 04926.

LETTERS: “Hell, Yes,” on China’s Question #1

To the editor:

China Citizens are being asked to vote Yes or No on the creation of the China Broadband Fiber Optic Internet system to serve every home in China that wants it, all without raising taxes, by issuing a Bond that will be paid back by subscribers over time.

Last week our China Broadband committee reviewed the Hawkeye Fiber report where the whole town was surveyed, and maps and detail were provided. It showed the costs and the six problem areas where it will be more expensive to serve.

The Town of China selectboard continues to look for dollar certainty on the China Broadband project and even with a “Yes” vote of citizens, the select board will be able to reassess if this project is in the town’s best interest.

The big picture is how this system will benefit the Community. It creates competition where we currently have an unregulated monopoly provider that can set any price it wants. There is no regulatory “PUC” or Public Broadband Commission to set rates for internet service.

The alternative is real competition with multiple providers. Competition keeps money in the pockets of citizen subscribers.

For a rough example, if a subscriber saves $40 a month compared to an incumbent provider, this is $480 per year and $4,800 in ten years. Say we get to 1200 subscribers; in ten years this is $5.7 Million dollars in the pockets of China Citizens who subscribe to this new fiber service.

To me, this makes it an easy “HELL YES!” vote for Community Broadband!

from Bob OConnor, Citizen of China concerned about connectivity since the 1980s and serves on the China Broadband committee

Irene Belanger honored for 22 years of service

Irene Belanger, seated left, recently retired from the select board after 22 years of service. Pictured with her are her husband, “Val”. right, and her immediate family standing behind her. (photo courtesy of Kelly Grotton)

LakeSmart presentation by Mary Wicklund, Maine’s LakeSmart Program Manager

Mary Wicklund, Maine’s LakeSmart Program Manager, right, presented information on the state’s LakeSmart Program to about two dozen people in the region via a “hybrid” in-person & Zoom meeting held October 20. With her, displaying a LakeSmart Award Sign, is the China Region Lakes Alliance Executive Director, Scott Pierz, who sponsored the event. (photo by Susan Gallo, Executive Director of Maine Lakes)

China Broadband Committee (CBC) reviews report to refine costs

by Mary Grow

At their Oct. 21 meeting, China Broadband Committee (CBC) members reviewed a report from Hawkeye Connections, the company whose employees surveyed existing power poles and related infrastructure to refine the cost of improving and expanding internet service in China.

The report gives an estimated cost of $5.25 million for main construction only. It further describes six areas lacking power poles, serving a total of more than 100 homes; and notes some homes on Three Mile Pond that are in China, but accessible only through Windsor, plus one island house.

Hawkeye engineers suggested solutions for most problem areas, including adding utility poles, doing underground connections and, for the island, wireless communication. They offered $135,000 as a partial additional cost estimate, varying with the chosen solution.

They offered no cost estimate for reaching the houses on the other side of a piece of Windsor. They said the location “would create some significant engineering challenges to get them service.”

Mark Ouellette, President of Axiom Technologies (the company CBC members plan to have set up and operate China’s new system, if it is approved and funded) called the Hawkeye figures “generally in line with what we were thinking” when making the preliminary estimate.

The six road sections needing extra work to provide connections are:

  • Stanley Hill and Maple Ridge roads, east on Stanley Hill and north on Maple Ridge from their intersection;
  • A stretch of Dutton Road, including Heartbreak Lane;
  • Mann Road between Parmenter Hill and Western Ridge, and the south end of Yorktown Road;
  • Western Ridge Road a short distance each way from the Davis Shore Road;
  • Route 3 mostly east, but also a short distance west, of the eastern Branch Mills Road intersection; and
  • Tyler Road northeast from the Finley Road intersection, including Evergreen Drive.

Committee members discussed the possibility that some or all of the neighborhoods where new poles are needed might be eligible for state and/or federal grants designated for areas currently lacking internet service. Ouellette will investigate grant requirements.

Committee members also considered cooperation with neighboring towns, since two areas are close to Palermo and one is close to Windsor.

Ouellette said Palermo is part of the Southwestern Waldo County Broadband Coalition, with Freedom, Liberty, Montville and Searsmont.

Another nearby coalition is the Western Kennebec Lakes Community Broadband Association, with Fayette, Leeds, Mount Vernon, Readfield, Vienna and Wayne as members. Ouellette said he has talked with interested parties in two of those towns.

Voters in Readfield will have three local questions related to broadband on their Nov. 2 ballots, according to a recent article in the Central Maine newspapers.

CBC members scheduled their next meeting for 4 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 4.

[See also: Various broadband initiatives across Maine to provide improved access]

“Yes” vote you approve; “No” vote you oppose

The Oct 21 China Broadband Committee (CBC) meeting was members’ last before the Nov. 2 local election, at which voters will approve or reject authorization for a $5.1 million bond issue to cover most of the estimated $6.5 million cost of improved and expanded internet service in China.

If voters approve the question, China Select Board members are authorized, but not required, to apply for the bond. Assuming they go through the Maine Bond Bank, the next application period will be in the spring of 2022.

The ballot question is long and complicated. CBC members have attempted to explain it on their website, chinabroadband.net; at public meetings; and through a mailed-out information sheet.

In the Sept. 24 issue of the town office news sheet, China Connected, Town Manager Rebecca Hapgood said that despite the complex wording, yes and no votes “mean what they say.”

She wrote: “A ‘yes’ vote would mean you support moving forward with broadband and the projected costs and a ‘no’ vote means you do not support moving forward with the broadband project.”

Thursday, Oct. 28, is the final day to request an absentee ballot in China. On Tuesday, Nov. 2, China polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., in the portable building behind the town office on Lakeview Drive.

Read all of The Town Line’s coverage of the China Broadband Committee here.

Various broadband initiatives across Maine to provide improved access

Photo credit: Barta IV, https://www.flickr.com/photos/98640399@N08/9287370881

by Jeanne Marquis

Communities through the Central Maine and Coastal regions are creating initiatives to improve their internet services to existing users and provide connection to underserved areas. Each community or coalition of communities is in a different stage of their progress, yet all have similar goals of future proofing their internet connections, providing reliable service to underserved residents and more affordable service to those who are currently served.

The Southwestern Waldo Broadband Coalition (SWBC) is one of these initiatives. Their goal is to connect Freedom, Liberty, Montville, Palermo, and Searsmont with affordable, accessible broadband coverage. In a survey conducted from April to September of 2021, fifty-five percent of respondents stated that no company was able to provide internet service to their homes. The survey results are further supported by a Geographical Information System (GIS) Mapping of the area showing most of Southwestern Waldo is in an internet desert devoid of connection.

Bob Kurek, Palermo selectman, explains why he works actively to advocate for SWBC,

“This is my second term as a selectman. I would like to leave the town doing something good for the town and I think this is probably the one thing that will benefit most of our residents.

“My next reason is funding. I would call myself a pragmatic conservative. I wouldn’t normally have gone after the government put in a lot of money. But as long as the government has decided they’ve got money that’s available [for broadband coverage], I want to be ready, willing and able to accept it and put it to use to solve a problem for our residents.”

The SWBC is fueled by volunteers from the five towns that comprise the coalition. Kurek explains, “If you realize the resources that it takes to pull together the information that you need to work on these grants? Small towns, like the R5 towns, don’t have enough resources to do it but when we combine we have the resources – I’m just thrilled by the people who work with us. We’ve got engineers, we’ve got educators, we’ve got accountants, we’ve got a good group of people who understand what it is that we’re wanting to do. They’re all working to solve the problem. They realize that our area is so unserved and underserved by broadband service. We could enhance our economic development, we can enhance education, and we can make it easier for people who need to communicate with doctors.”

The SWBC completed an extensive survey to ascertain the level of interest and need in their five town area. Key members of the coalition presented the results this September in informational sessions at town meetings. The SWBC earned the approval of all five select boards to use funds from the first distribution of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) for a feasibility study. The SWBC is now soliciting bids from eight consulting firms.

Another broadband initiative in the Central Maine region is the Western Kennebec Lakes Community Broadband Asso­ciation, which combines the towns of Fayette, Leeds, Mount Vernon, Readfield, Vienna and Wayne. A statement on the association’s website expresses that their towns need improved access to the internet to help their students get an education, promote remote work opportunities, access information and reduce isolation by connecting family and friends. The association also views internet access as vital to the future financial wellbeing of their communities by encouraging new residents to settle and their current families’ youth to stay or return.

The WKLCBA is currently gathering survey information from residents from their six communities. Video testimonials are posted on their website expressing the need for improved internet service from a variety of sectors: health, education and business.

Ellsworth is an example of a community with a newly-installed fiber network serving three miles of their downtown area. The city is currently offering leases to connect to the network to both residential and business customers. The goal of the fiber network project is to position Ellsworth as a technology-friendly city to attract remote workers and companies for whom broadband is a vital component of their business.

The Ellsworth city website says the city may expand the network overtime as the interest grows and update the technology at either end of the cable as needed.

The Town of China appointed a broadband committee to research options for better internet service and this committee has been meeting since early 2017. The China Broadband Committee (CBC) found that the major internet provider services only 70 percent of the town, the rest are serviced by a lower quality DSL or have no service. The committee’s solution to provide more reliable, more affordable internet service to every resident and business in China is similar to the fiber network plans of the broadband initiatives in progress across our state. The CBC plan is highly detailed and analyzed in an October 14, 2021, article by The Town Line technical advisor Eric Austin found at https://townline.org/category/sections/columns/tech-talk/ and on the CBC website at https://chinabroadband.net/.

HALLOWEEN EVENTS 2021

HALLOWEEN EVENTS

CHINA

Erskine Academy will host Trunk or Treat from 6 – 8 p.m., this Friday, October 29, at the school.

There will also be a haunted house inside, around the gymnasium.

CHINA VILLAGE

Albert Church Brown Memorial Library, in China Village, will be welcoming trick or treaters from 5 – 7 p.m., on Sunday, October 31.

FAIRFIELD

Due to the impending inclement weather, the Fairfield Trunk or Treat has been rescheduled to Sunday, October 31, 2 – 5 p.m., on Eskelund Drive.

PALERMO

The Palermo Consolidated School eighth graders will hold a haunted trail on Saturday, October 30, from 3 – 8 p.m. The scariest experience will take place from 6 – 8 p.m. Admission is $5 per person and will include games, pineapple juice. You will not be touched. All proceeds to benefit the eighth grade heritage tour. The school is located at 501 ME-Route 3, Palermo.

WATERVILLE

The Alfond Youth and Community Center will be hosting a trunk or treat open house, family fun Halloween event for all ages and abilitites on Sunday, October 31, from 3 – 5 p.m., in the parking lot and facility, 126 North St., in Waterville.

WINDSOR

This year we will be having our Trunk n Treat on Friday, October 29, from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the field across from the fair grounds. This will be a walk through event, you will park in the field and we will have the trunks in a line for the kids to walk through. We will be selling glow sticks for a $1.00 at the front of the line. All monies will go help the kids at Windsor school this year. Parking will be in the big fields where the camping is.

WINSLOW

Trick or Treat at the Winslow Public Library on Friday, October 29, 2 – 6 p.m. Ring the library doorbell for a trick or treat surprise. This will include candy, a snack, a craft, a bookmark and more. Let us know if you need an allergy friendly option. Feel free to wear a costume. Open to youth of all ages.

A musical legacy passes to the next generation at So. China Community Church

South China Community Church new musical director Ian Maxwell. Inset. (contributed photo)

by Eric W. Austin

The South China Community Church has chosen Ian Maxwell, a local South China resident and recent graduate of Eastern University, to be their new director of music. Maxwell will be replacing Chris Faris, who previously held the position for the last 29 years.

“The choir is very excited to be working with Ian, who is challenging them with some difficult pieces that require more than just one rehearsal to learn,” said Janet Preston, an elder in charge of worship music at the church and part of the team that selected Maxwell for the position. “Ian was the obvious choice to succeed our previous ‘Minister of Music,’ Chris Faris. He and his family have been active members of South China Community Church since Ian was very young. Ian started playing piano as a child and quickly impressed his teacher (Muriel Desrosier of Winslow) with his talent and potential.”

Among the responsibilities of the church music director is to choose, along with the worship chair and pastor, the hymns used during church services and by the choir, and to accompany them on piano, as well as directing rehearsals for the choir during the week.

“South China Community Church is the church I grew up in,” said Ian Maxwell, “so it’s an honor to be able to take a leadership position there. I intend to use the talents I was given to assist the church in worship, and to tackle fulfilling and beautiful music with our choir. I’m very excited about what the future will bring.”

Maxwell graduated from Eastern University, in St. Davids, Pennsylvania, in the spring of 2021 with a degree in General Music and a concentration in Piano, his primary instrument.

Outgoing director Chris Faris. (contributed photo)

The previous director, Chris Faris, was a prolific composer and has written more than 100 songs to be used during church services. Preston was worried those songs would be lost with the appointment of a new music director. “Not so,” she said. “One of Ian’s first choices was one of Chris’ pieces. The choir was thrilled and even sent a recording of themselves singing it to Chris, who was delighted as well.”

Faris often wrote pieces about themes that were important to individual members of the congregation. “He wrote a beautiful song about fairness for my daughter, Beth,” Preston said. She hopes to help publish a book of Faris’ compositions in the near future.

Besides serving as music director for the church and writing original songs, Faris was also a chef and created elaborate soup suppers for the congregation that were held before church events. “He was much more than simply our pianist, earning the title of ‘Minister of Music,’” said Preston. “We so appreciate his many years of service to South China Community Church.”

Not long after returning to China after graduation, Maxwell approached Faris and Preston about creating a second choir. “Chris saw this as an opportunity to retire and leave the choir in good hands,” said Preston. “Things fell into place very quickly. It was a win-win situation. We were very fortunate that Ian was eager and willing!”

Preston hopes that Maxwell’s youth and energy will attract new people to join the church choir. “He is a young, dynamic, and creative director with a great sense of humor and a hugely positive attitude,” she said. “It is so much fun to sing with/for him! All are welcome to stop in Wednesday evenings at 7:30 (for choir rehearsal) at South China Community Church on Village Street (across from the South China Library).”

The South China Community Church holds rehearsals for the choir at 7:30 p.m., on Wednesdays, and worship services at 10 a.m., on Sundays.

FOR YOUR HEALTH: Untreated Vision Loss Can Speed Cognitive Decline

Getting a thorough eye exam can solve some surprising health matters for many people.

(NAPSI)—There’s a reason you shouldn’t skip your routine eye exam—and many people don’t even know about it. A growing body of research shows that vision loss can affect how well your brain works. The most recent study found that people who scored poorly on vision tests were more likely to suffer from deficits in memory, language and the ability to identify and locate objects in space. To protect your brain, get an eye exam to make sure correctable vision problems are detected and treated. The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends all adults receive a comprehensive eye exam by age 40, and every year or two after age 65.

Why Check Your Eyes

Here are three more reasons to get your eyes examined:

  1. The leading causes of blindness— including glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration—can begin without any noticeable symptoms,. The best way to protect your vision is to see an ophthalmologist, a physician who specializes in medical and surgical eye care.
  2. Seeing an ophthalmologist can improve your overall health. Blood vessels and nerves in your eyes are reflective of the rest of your body. Ophthalmologists are sometimes the first to diagnose systemic diseases, such as diabetes, multiple sclerosis or vitamin deficiencies. For example, when David Hibler, Sr. went to get his eyes checked, his ophthalmologist detected signs of a blood clot just by looking into his eyes. Seeing an ophthalmologist helped save Hibler’s life, as it led him to get appropriate medical attention to avoid a potential stroke.
  3. Some adults shouldn’t wait until they are 40 to have a complete eye exam. See an ophthalmologist now if you have an eye disease or risk factors such as:
    • diabetes
    • high blood pressure
    • family history of eye disease.

EyeCare America Can Help

If the cost of an eye exam is a concern, the American Academy of Ophthalmology’s EyeCare America program may be able to help. This national public service program provides eye care through volunteer ophthalmologists for eligible seniors 65 and older and those at increased risk for eye disease.

Learn More

For further information regarding EyeCare America and to see if you or someone you care for can qualify, visit www.aao.org/eyecare-america.