ICE OUT 2025? Take a guess. Win a prize!

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SEND US YOUR BEST ICE OUT GUESS FOR 2025

Write down your best guess (one per person) and send it to The Town Line, PO Box 89, South China, ME 04358, or email us at townline@townline.org with the subject “ICE OUT 2025“. If more than one person guesses the correct date, a drawing will be held to determine the winner. Get your guess to The Town Line office by noon, Friday, March 21, 2025.

Email: townline@townline.org. Or use our Contact Us page!

PRIZE: To be determined

The records below, of ice out dates on China Lake, were provided by China residents Bill Foster, Captain James Allen and Theresa Plaisted.

Bill Foster brought in the ice out dates from 1874 to 1883. They came from a 215-page log/diary. In the log/diary are recorded the comings and goings from 1870 to 1883 of the F. O. Brainard Store, as well as personal notations of special and everyday events.

Captain James Allen brought in the ice out dates from 1901 to 1948. They had been recorded on the outhouse wall of the old Farnsworth house, also located in China Village.

Theresa Plaisted brought in the ice out dates from 1949 to 1991. She explained to us that a friend and neighbor, Ben Dillenbeck, had kept the record on his cellarway wall until his death on December 12, 1987.

Theresa transcribed Mr. Dillenbeck’s record and has kept the record up to date ever since.

This year, we will be checking China Lake to determine the official date for “Ice Out” in 2025. We will not be looking in hard-to-access areas for that very last crystal to melt, so the definition of “Ice Out,” for the purpose of this contest, is: “When, to the best judgment of the assigned viewer, the surface of the lake appears to be free of ice.” The judge’s decision is final.

Can you guess the day The Town Line declares China Lake free of ice?

Ice Out dates for the last 150 years!

1874 – April 22
1875 – May 6
1876 – April 30
1877 – April 16
1878 – April 12
1879 – May 3
1880 – April 21
1881 – April 19
1883 – April 29
1901 – March 27
1921 – March 28
1932 – April 27
1933 – April 20
1934 – April 19
1935 – April 25
1936 – April 4
1937 – April 20
1938 – April 20
1939 – May 4
1941 – April 16
1945 – April 2
1947 – April 12
1948 – April 8
1949 – April 6
1950 – April 14
1951 – April 9
1952 – April 19
1953 – March 19
1954 – April 19
1955 – April 13
1956 – April 27
1957 – April 10
1958 – April 16
1959 – April 22
1960 – April 21
1961 – April 30
1962 – April 20
1963 – April 22
1964 – April 21
1965 – April 18
1966 – April 18
1967 – April 29
1968 – April 13
1969 – April 23
1970 – April 23
1971 – April 30
1972 – May 1
1973 – April 8
1974 – April 2
1975 – April 23
1976 – April 11
1977 – April 18
1978 – April 21
1979 – April 12
1980 – April 10
1981 – March 18
1982 – April 22
1983 – April 1
1984 – April 17
1985 – April 6
1986 – April 8
1987 – April 6
1988 – April 6
1989 – April 22
1990 – April 11
1991 – April 8
1992 – April 15
1993 – April 21
1994 – April 20
1995 – April 9
1996 – April 5
1997 – April 23
1998 – April 9
1999 – April 2
2000 – April 4
2001 – April 27
2002 – April 6
2003 – April 21
2004 – April 14
2005 – April 16
2006 – March 26
2007 – April 23
2008 – April 17
2009 – April 11
2010 – March 19
2011 – April 17
2012 – March 21
2013 – April 6
2014 – April 19
2015 – April 22
2016 – March 15
2017 – April 17
2018 – April 23
2019 – April 12
2020 – March 27
2021 – March 30
2022 – April 2
2023 – April 12
2024 – March 11
2025 – ????????

Maine Moose 12U Tier II team wins state championship (2025)

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Maine Moose 12U Tier II team wins state championship The Maine Moose 12U Tier II hockey team has been crowned the 2024-2025 Maine Amateur Hockey Association State Champions after an outstanding performance in the state tournament. The team showcased skill, determination, and teamwork, securing the title with a thrilling final victory. The Moose will now move on and represent Maine in the New England Regionals starting Friday, March 14.

State Championship Roster:

Goaltenders:

• #1 – Isak Harrington
• #48 – Gabe Loubier

Defensemen:

• #8 – Reagan Gendron
• #21 – Parker Boucher
• #27 – Lincoln Fogg
• #52 – Easton Gradie
• #87 – Austin Roderick
• #97 – Greyson Arnold

Forwards:

• #2 – Brendan Greer
• #4 – Eli Bilodeau
• #10 – Campbell McCarthy
• #22 – Bryson Johnson
• #24 – Bryson Nichols
• #63 – Isaac Turner
• #76 – Malcolm Campbell
• #82 – Landon Ward
• #88 – Wesley McPherson
• #89 – Ezra Orlandello

Coaching Staff:

• Head Coach: Brian Boucher
• Assistant Coach: Brian McCarthy

Outback Beauty owner retires

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Susan White

To all my customers: It is with a heavy heart that as of March 7, 2025, I have retired. Becky will be there to carry on. Her number is 207-993-2155. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart and I will miss you. Outback Beauty / Susan White

TEAM PHOTO: 2025 SVAC champions

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The Vassalboro Community School girls basketball team rolled through an undefeated season to claim the Sheepscot Valley Athletic Conference championship for 2025. (contributed photo)

Repair work taking place at Lithgow Library

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photo: Friends of Lithgow Public Library

Please note that starting March 11, there will be ongoing repair work taking place in the library’s historic wing. The first phase of work will start with the Reading Room, which will be partially closed, and then will shift to the West side where the dvds, magazines and newspapers are housed. During phase two, the magazines and newspapers will be relocated to the Reference area on the 2nd floor and some of the dvds may be unavailable.

The historic wing is the library’s designated quiet area, but during this time there will be disruption. Thank you for your patience.

Lithgow Library is located at 45 Winthrop Street, in Augusta. For more information, please call the library at (207) 626-2415 or visit our website at www.lithgowlibrary.org

Desmond Robinson receives MPA Principal’s Award

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Desmond Robinson

Desmond Robinson, son of Daniel and Stacey Robinson, of Solon, a senior at Carrabec High School, in North Anson, has been se­lected to receive the 2025 Prin­ci­pal’s A­ward, according to Princi­pal Peter Campbell. The award, sponsored by the Maine Principals’ Association, is given in recognition of a high school senior’s academic achievement, citizenship and leadership.

Mr. Robinson is a well-rounded student. He is a member of the student council and student advisory team. His contributions are always thoughtful and are well received by this peers. Desmond represents Carrabec High School in other areas as well. He is a member of the math team where his high scores at meets have propelled the math team to three consecutive league championships. He is also a member of the National Honor Society and was selected as the first student to represent his class as Student of the Month. Desmond is a three season athlete, competing at a high level in cross country, basketball and track and field.

Academically, Desmond’s performance has set him apart from his peers. Desmond has and continues to take advanced classes. The most impressive achievement is that he has already taken and passed seven AP exams. Several of which, he did not even take as a class, it was done on his own.

For all of these reasons, Mr. Campbell is proud to announce that Desmond Robinson is the Carrabec High School MPA Award recipient for 2025. Desmond will attend an awards luncheon on Saturday, April 5, 2025, where he will receive his award and be eligible to be selected for one of ten scholarships.

Augusta native serves with Navy Helicopter Strike Force

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Petty Officer 3rd Class Theodore Mahaleris, of Augusta, with a Navy MH-60R Sea Hawk in the background. (photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Joseph Sitter, Navy Public Affairs Support Element West)

Petty Officer 3rd Class Theodore Mahaleris, a native of Augusta, serves the U.S. Navy assigned to Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 35.

Mahaleris graduated from Cony High School in 2017.

The skills and values needed to succeed in the Navy are similar to those found in Augusta.

“My hometown taught me the importance of small-town ideals,” Mahaleris said. “My city inspired me to venture off to experience new cities and new adventures. After joining the Navy, I was exposed to how much more the world had to offer.”

Mahaleris joined the Navy three years ago. Today, Mahaleris serves as a naval air crewman (tactical helicopter).

“I joined the Navy because I wanted to join a challenging and fulfilling community,” Mahaleris said. “Air rescue has provided the opportunity to travel to places I couldn’t ever imagine and contribute to a unique work environment. My great uncle served in the Navy and hearing his sea stories inspired me to join.”

Members of HSM-35 fly and maintain the MH-60R Sea Hawk helicopter, the Navy’s most advanced rotary wing maritime strike platform. The Navy MH-60R is able to perform many different missions. Some of the most common operations include strikes on maritime targets, submarine hunting and attack, electronic warfare, search and rescue, medical evacuations and supply support.

The U.S. Navy is celebrating its 250th birthday this year.

According to Navy officials, “America is a maritime nation and for 250 years, America’s Warfighting Navy has sailed the globe in defense of freedom.”

With 90 percent of global commerce traveling by sea and access to the internet relying on the security of undersea fiber optic cables, Navy officials continue to emphasize the prosperity of the United States is directly linked to recruiting and retaining talented people from across the rich fabric of America.

Mahaleris has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military service.

“My proudest accomplishment so far is graduating from the Fleet Replacement Aircrew (FRAC) training,” Mahaleris said. “I was able to push myself through rigorous training that I originally wasn’t inclined towards. I was able to achieve success in a rewarding career field that I would have never imagined myself in. The Romeo aircrew requirement is very intensive, but the opportunity to employ your skillset on a daily basis is unparalleled.”

Mahaleris serves a Navy that operates far forward, around the world and around the clock, promoting the nation’s prosperity and security.

“For me, serving in the Navy means training to be the best,” Mahaleris said. “To get to practice my mission set on a daily basis to protect this country is an experience unlike any other.”

Mahaleris is grateful to others for helping make a Navy career possible.

“I want to thank my mom and dad,” Mahaleris added. “Maine provided the foundation for me to propel myself to where I am today. I was able to leverage my experiences to become the leader I am today.”

3rd annual Mothers-to-be Tea returns in Vassalboro

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Sew for a Cause volunteer Barbara Clerite-Ventura prepares for the 3rd annual Mothers-to-be Tea, on Saturday, May 3. (contributed photo)

by Eric W. Austin

A homemade diaper bag. (contributed photo)

The 3rd Annual Mothers-to-Be Tea is set for Saturday, May 3, 2025, from 1-3 p.m., at the St. Bridget Center, in Vassalboro. This heartwarming event, hosted by the dedicated volunteers of Sew for a Cause, aims to provide a supportive and celebratory space for expectant mothers to relax, connect, and enjoy an afternoon of tea, treats, and community.

With free admission and a welcoming atmosphere, the Mothers-to-Be Tea is designed to bring local moms together, offering resources and connections to help them navigate the journey of motherhood. Whether it’s your first child or another exciting addition to the family, this event promises a memorable and uplifting experience.

Guests will be greeted with a delightful spread of tea and light refreshments in the gorgeously restored St. Bridget Center, creating a cozy, friendly setting. But the real treat? Every attendee will receive a Welcome Baby Bundle tote bag filled with handcrafted baby essentials, lovingly made by the Sew for a Cause volunteers. Expect handmade bibs, blankets, hats, and other adorable baby items that make preparing for a new arrival just a little sweeter.

Sew for a Cause volunteer Mary Michaud. (contributed photo)

Beyond the gifts, the event will also feature raffle baskets, with prizes generously donated by local businesses and community sponsors. Additionally, experienced moms will be on hand to share valuable tips, advice, and encouragement, helping to foster a sense of connection and support among attendees.

Rachel Kilbride, event organizer and Sew for a Cause volunteer, emphasizes the significance of creating a strong support system for new mothers.

“They say it takes a village to raise a child, but these days, many moms feel like they’re doing it alone. We want to change that,” says Kilbride.

Sew for a Cause is a dedicated group of volunteers who meet regularly at the St. Bridget Center to create handmade items for local charities and families in need. Their work benefits organizations such as Catholic Charities, Maine Children’s Home, Maine Veterans Home, and area nursing homes.

Space is limited, so expectant mothers must register no later than April 13, 2025 by emailing motherstobetea@gmail.com or calling 207-616-3148. Each mother-to-be is welcome to bring one guest to share in the celebration.

For those who want to support the event, donations are welcome to help sustain the work of Sew for a Cause. Contri­butions can be mailed to Sew for a Cause, c/o St. Bridget Center, PO Box 112, North Vassalboro, ME 04962, or dropped off at the venue.

EVENTS: Benefit supper to help defray costs as family deals with cancer for second time

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A few months ago a young woman, Heather Bragg, and her family, Steve Bragg Jr., her husband, and two children Ken and Emma were unfortunately given the news, for the second time in five years, that Heather would be battling cancer.

The first time, four-and-a-half years ago was a well fought and won battle with this disease. Again. she has been diagnosed, except with lung cancer this time.

She is brave and her family is also. They have always been kind and giving to others and have wonderful positive outlooks. Now, they are receiving the kindness of the community of Palermo and beyond. The people of Palermo have graciously stepped up for this family with wonderful support and kind spirited giving.

Local community members will be hosting a benefit spaghetti supper, raffle and auction for Heather Bragg and her family. This will be held on Saturday, March 22, from 4 – 6 p.m., at the Palermo Consolidated School, on Rte. 3, in Palermo. Following dinner there will be a baked goods auction. Dinner is $10 per person or donation, $5 for children under 10. There will also be an auction with more items coming.

Tickets are $5, or 5 for $20.
This article has been updated from how it originally appeared in print.

Vassalboro Methodist Church new lift activated

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Theresa White, left, took the maiden voyage on the new elevator/lift at the Vassalboro Methodist Church, on February 26, while Harvey Boatman, project coordinator, showed White how to operate it. (contributed photo)

by Dale Potter-Clark

During the largely attended funeral of Cathy (White) Fisher on March 18, 2023, some people in leadership positions at the Vassalboro United Methodist Church (VUMC) were struck by how unsatisfactorily their building was set-up for people with physical challenges. For one, the space for wheelchairs in their sanctuary was inadequate; and for another, the only ways to get to their fellowship hall and bathrooms from the sanctuary were to either navigate a full flight of stairs, or return to their cars and drive to the lower parking lot where they could enter directly into the fellowship hall.

Church leadership held a meeting soon after the funeral when the idea of installing an elevator/lift between the two floors was introduced. “Almost everyone voted NO,” related VUMC matriarch, Theresa White. “They just did not see how our small congregation could afford to pay for such a thing.” But they were proven wrong when, by February 26, 2025, the lift had been installed, it had passed the Maine State inspection and was completely paid for with $80,000 in grants and contributions from the community.

Folks who stood in line at the church that February morning insisted that Theresa White take the maiden voyage with Harvey Boatman, project coordinator as the operator. More riders followed with big smiles and accolades to Boatman for his determination and hard work towards seeing the project through to completion. “Now it is on to the next phase of our efforts to increase community access to VUMC programs and services,” said Boatman. “This is only one part of that process, albeit a big part.”