Kennebec County retirees continue to support the classroom

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Kennebec Retired Educators Association (KREA) will award three $150 grants to educators in Kennebec County schools. The KREAtive grants supplement expenses incurred in student-centered, interdisciplinary projects and may be expended for materials used in the classroom, speakers’ fees, project development expenses, etc.

Grant description and applications are being disseminated to every principal of all elementary, middle, and high schools. The principals are then asked to make them available to their classroom teachers.

“Even though we are not actively teaching in the classroom anymore, for many of us that is where our hearts remain long after we retire,” says Rosanna Joseph of Waterville, chairperson of the innovative KREAtive Classroom Grant Committee and retired Winslow elementary teacher.

“We just want to give back to our schools and students in as many ways as possible,” says committee member Phil Gonyar of Waterville where he served as chairperson of the high school social studies department. Having also served as superintendent of schools in Bangor, Gonyar initiated the annual grant project in 2014.

Grant applications must be submitted by email to gldavis56@yahoo.com or be postmarked by October 30 to KREAtive Grant Committee, c/o George Davis, 12 Fieldstone Drive, Waterville, ME 04901. The deadline for submitting the grant application is October 31, 2017. The winning applicants will be notified by December 1, 2017 and will receive the grant money at that time.

KREA is comprised of retired educators from 54 schools in 31 cities and towns.

Saige Knight enrolled at St. Lawrence University

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St. Lawrence University, in Canton, New York, has welcomed Saige Knight, of Oakland, as a member of the class of 2021. Knight attended Messalonskee High School.

Town manager shares e-mail regarding RSU #18 bond issue

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China Town Manager Daniel L’Heureux recently shared information by email with China selectmen and other interested parties on three issues: the proposed RSU (Regional School Unit) #18 bond issue to be voted on Nov. 7, China Lake water quality and post-2018 solid waste disposal.

RSU #18 Superintendent Carl Gartley sent L’Heureux a follow-up letter after he discussed the bond issue at the Aug. 21 selectmen’s meeting. The RSU is requesting approval to borrow almost $14 million for projects in Belgrade, China, Oakland and Sidney schools, including almost $4 million for a new athletic complex at Messalonskee High School, in Oakland. China schools would get about $2.46 million worth of work, the bulk at China Middle School.

At the Aug.21 meeting, not all China selectmen liked the idea of China taxpayers paying for work in other towns, nor did they approve of contributing to an athletic complex that few China students would use.

Gartley’s Sept. 14 letter says that since the RSU was formed, it has borrowed almost $1.3 million in revolving renovation funds. Of the total, almost $439,000, or more than one-third of the total, was spent in China. But under the RSU cost-sharing formula, China repaid only 19.5 percent of the loans, with the other towns picking up the rest.

China schools will receive 17.7 percent of the proposed new bond issue, a balance Gartley, who is a China resident and former China principal, called “very fair for our town.”

Cooperation and mutual support were “one of the reasons for consolidation,” Gartley said. He urged selectmen to think in terms of the RSU, not town by town.

He reminded them that after the state assigned low priority to funding the long-standing proposal to expand China Primary School and close the middle school, China residents decided to keep the middle school in repair instead of paying for a single school with town borrowing. The RSU and its predecessor, School Union #52, spent substantial sums on asbestos removal, floor and roof work, a new boiler, a new air handling system, a waterproof basement and other projects.

In Gartley’s opinion, the money already spent and proposed to be spent if voters approve on Nov. 7 is a benefit whatever happens. China Middle School will remain usable if the state does not agree to support a single school; should the state agree to help fund consolidation (an outcome not precluded by approval of the bond issue, Gartley said), the former middle school will be ready for its proposed alternative future as some kind of community center.

News about China Lake came from the minutes of a recent Kennebec Water District trustees’ meeting, at which the trustees learned that water quality in the lake has been exceptionally good this summer. July Secchi disk readings, which measure water transparency (and thus the absence of algae) were the best since 1982, the minutes said.

There were small algae blooms along parts of the shoreline, but overall, the minutes said, KWD Director of Water Quality Matt Zetterman was pleased. He hopes the improvement indicates that the work done to keep phosphorus out of the lake and the annual fall drawdown started in 2014 are beginning to have effects.

On a related matter, Town Manager L’Heureux told selectmen the planned removal of dams on Outlet Stream to allow alewives to migrate into China Lake will not affect KWD’s or Vassalboro’s ability to control the China Lake water level as required by the state. The state directive includes the fall drawdown.

L’Heureux forwarded additional good news about the Fiberight facility that is scheduled to take China’s solid waste beginning in April 2018, from Greg Lounder, head of the Municipal Review Committee overseeing the project on behalf of Maine towns.

Two recent communications from Lounder report that the site is cleared and concrete was to be poured beginning Sept. 18; funding is obtained, allowing Fiberight to start ordering the proposed building and recycling system; the entrance road, water and sewer are done; and initial steel deliveries are to start in October.

Lounder said Fiberight is “working closely” with state and town officials to make sure it stays in compliance with its permits. The company is using local contractors as much as possible, and the “vast majority” of the equipment is US-made, he said.

MOFGA to Host 41st Annual Common Ground Country Fair

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On September 22, 23 & 24, the 41st annual Common Ground Country Fair will take place at the home of the Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association (MOFGA) in Unity, Maine. Some 60,000 people take part in this event, which celebrates rural and sustainable living in Maine. The Fair is unique because there are no midway carnivals, fast food or games of chance. What it does offer is pure fun and entertainment in an educational context.

Pinterest photo

“Vendors, demonstrators, entertainers and exhibitors feature traditional skills, talent, local organic food, and made-in-Maine crafts,” said Fair Director April Boucher. “Common Ground has some of the most delicious food of any fair in Maine. MOFGA places a great deal of emphasis on educating people about available alternatives for living healthfully, happily and comfortably in the Northeast.”

Each day, there are hundreds of talks, demonstrations and exhibits focusing on healthy and environmentally sound living. The Fair’s activities are spread out over 40+ acres of well-tended land adorned by beautiful perennial gardens, walkways, and orchards.

The success and continued growth of the Fair is attributable to generous donations and the tremendous loyalty of MOFGA’s remarkable volunteer community. If you’ve never had the opportunity to attend this local event, this is the year to do so. Here are just a few exciting reasons to attend the Fair:

Each day at 11 a.m. on the Common there will be a keynote address. On Friday, long-time MOFGA farmer Jill Agnew, of Willow Pond Farm in Sabattus, will deliver a talk entitled “Community” Supported Agriculture – Looking Back, Looking Forward, A 40-Year Story. She will talk about what visions lie ahead to maintain a positive impact in the community and how basic human values are supported, taught and nurtured – all in the context of agriculture, the panorama people can see, smell, experience and eat. On Saturday, Sherri Mitchell, attorney, teacher, spiritual activist, and director of the Land Peace Foundation, will speak about Standing on Indigenous Rights – the need for developing unity with indigenous rights movements, centering on our shared connection to the Earth and our interdependence with one another and the entire structure of life. And on Sunday, Jonathan Rosenthal, executive director of the New Economy Coalition, and co-founder of Equal Exchange, will discuss the interconnectedness of our many different struggles for justice. He will highlight solutions that fundamentally transform our economy, culture, and politics, while looking at the connection between local work and systemic transformation.

MOFGA’s Public Policy Committee will host an important Teach-in on Saturday at 1 p.m. on the Spotlight Stage. The Teach-in, entitled Making America Green Again: A Workshop In Resistance, will feature three environmental policy experts who will describe threats to state and federal policies, and ways to fight back. Emmie Theberge, federal project director at the Natural Resources Council of Maine (NRCM), will explain key environmental issues at the state and federal levels. Senator Shenna Bellows (D-Manchester) will speak about how to run for office at the state and federal levels. Beth Ahearn, political director at Maine Conservation Voters, will coach about how to make your voice heard – i.e., how best to contact state and federal legislators, and how to present testimony and lobby in person. Nancy Ross, former executive director of MOFGA, will moderate the Teach-in. Nancy is professor emerita of environmental policy at Unity College and adjunct faculty in political science at Southern Maine Community College. A Q&A session will follow the presentations.

Other speakers and demonstrators offer numerous informative presentations and workshops on topics such as seed saving, composting, growing grains, organic gardening, farm marketing, cooking with local and seasonal foods, medicinal and culinary herbs, working with animal fiber, raising livestock, energy efficiency, conservation, toxics and other environmental concerns, social and political initiatives, working with stone, traditional and practical Maine folk arts, Maine Native American culture, low impact forestry skills, Maine’s media sources, ecological design and building, and practices for healthy living. See the Fair’s detailed schedule of events.

One of the most beautiful fair venues is MOFGA’s Exhibition Hall — a post and beam structure designed and raised in 1998 by five Maine-based timber frame companies. The Hall showcases thousands of garden entries organically raised throughout the state. The vibrant colors and great diversity inspire fairgoers to try their hands at growing countless varieties of fruits, vegetables, grains, flowers, nuts, herbs and flowers. Eggs, honey, home-made beverages, baked goods, dried foods, and, of course, canned foods are on display. Amateur craftspeople and artists also submit wonderful items for display.

Throughout the Fair weekend, there are livestock shows, contests and demonstrations featuring draft horses and ponies, dairy cattle and oxen, donkeys and mules, goats and sheep, poultry, rabbits, llamas and alpacas, and pigs. Sheep Dog demonstrations happen three times a day.

Dozens of Maine’s entertainers will perform in the Amphitheater, on the Spotlight Stage, and as rovers around the fairgrounds.

The Fair’s festive Children’s Area is a mini-Fair unto itself. There are countless activities (all free) for kids to participate in joyfully, and there is a stage with great entertainment for families. A children’s garden parade winds around The Common twice daily. All are welcome to don garden costumes and march.

And, of course, there are countless opportunities to purchase Maine-grown produce and other beautifully crafted, Maine-made goods. Two large and brilliant farmers’ markets offer an abundance of Maine’s organic produce. The Agricultural Products and Farm & Homestead areas feature goods and services from Maine’s farming and gardening community. The Crafts tents showcase exquisite creations from Maine’s finest artists and craftspeople. The Energy & Shelter Area presents environmentally friendly materials and systems for Maine homes. The Maine Fiber Farms tent highlights beautiful crafts and practical items made from farm animal fiber. The Maine Indian Basketmakers Association area offers superb creations of basketry, jewelry and other crafts of the Wabanaki, as well as educational talks, traditional dances and music. And the Youth Enterprise Zone, which happens on Friday and Sunday, presents the skill, innovation and creativity of Maine’s young entrepreneurs. This celebration of rural living offers something for everyone, in a traditionally festive atmosphere.

“The Common Ground Country Fair blends the best of traditional with the best of modern-day living in Maine, and shows Fairgoers how they can incorporate sustainable living practices into their own daily routines,” said Boucher.

Volunteers are needed during Fair set-up (through September 21), during the Fair itself (September 22, 23 & 24), and for a focused Fair clean-up effort on October 14. Volunteers who work a 4-hour shift receive an organic cotton Fair t-shirt illustrated with this year’s artwork, a hearty meal from the Fair’s Common Kitchen, and free admission to the Fair. Online pre-registration for volunteers will run through September 19. After pre-registration, anyone wishing to volunteer should come to the fairgrounds where coordinators will assign shifts as needed. Fair organizers especially need help during the clean-up after the Fair. Clean-up volunteers wishing to receive free admission to the Fair should check in at the Volunteer Registration Tent.

The Fair goes on rain or shine. MOFGA’s Common Ground Education Center is on the Crosby Brook Road in Unity. Gates open at 9 a.m. daily.

MOFGA offers free admission to the Fair for its members. Join MOFGA online. Tickets at the gate are $15 for general admission and $10 for elders.

For more information about the Common Ground Country Fair, call 207-568-4142 or visit www.mofga.org.

Quarter auction planned in Madison

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A Quarter Auction will be held on Saturday, September 30, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., at Madison American Legion Hall, 20 S. Maple Street. Check out this exciting fundraiser that has never been done in this area before! Quarter Auction is a combination of an Auction, Vendor Fair and Luck of the Draw all rolled into a fun time.

Doors open at 9 a.m. Auction starts at 10 a.m. Admission is $2 per Auction Paddle. The kitchen will be open. 50/50 Raffle and various other raffles.

Bring your quarters! Quarters will be available to purchase. All proceeds to benefit veterans programs and local community charities. For more information, call Harriet 635-2051, Fran 696-3726 or Bonnie 772-418-4534, also as an event on Facebook entitled Quarter Auction. Event sponsored by the American Legion Auxiliary, Unit #39-Madison.

Heather Kervin welcomed to Castleton University

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Castleton University, in Castleton, Vermont, is excited to welcome Heather Kervin, of Winslow, to the Castleton community. Kervin is one of more than nearly 600 new students who have registered for the fall 2017 semester!

Hathaway Mill Antiques Grand Opening Celebrations in Waterville

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Hathaway Mill Antiques sister shop to Cabot Mill Antiques will be celebrating its grand opening on Saturday, September 23, and Sunday, September 24. This weekend will include refreshments, entertainment, prizes, and gift certificates.

Located in the beautifully-restored historic Hathaway Shirt Factory on the Kennebec River, at 10 Water Street, in Waterville, Hathaway Mill Antiques features a 10,000-square-foot show room with over 40 antiques dealers. Hathaway Mill Antiques offers a splendid array of period furniture, mid -century modern furnishings, china, paintings, art works, silver, jewelry, early painted country primitives, nautical, country store advertising, ephemera, books and so much more.

Cindy Gervais will present her Chalk Paint Seminar and application demonstration on Saturday, September 23, from 11 a.m. to noon.

Eric Hooglund will offer his extensive knowledge of Waterville presenting on its history on pre-1965 Downtown Waterville, on Sunday, September 24, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Hathaway Mill Antiques is handicapped accessible and accepts all major credit cards and personal checks. The antique mall is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For more information please contact Deborah J. Stufflebeam, Hathaway Mill Antiques Manager, at 207-877-0250 or email her at info@hathawaymillantiques.com.

CEO rules permit not needed for controversial dock in China

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by Mary Grow

China Board of Appeals members delved into a complex 58th Fire Road neighborhood dispute at their Sept. 7 meeting, ultimately denying Kevin Meader’s appeal of Codes Officer Paul Mitnik’s decision not to require permitting or removal of a controversial dock.

The final motion, approved 6-0 with Board Chairman Spencer Aitel abstaining, was that Meader’s appeal was denied because the dock is “grandfathered” and therefore the appeals board did not have jurisdiction.

An earlier motion made a finding of fact: the dock is grandfathered because testimony and evidence showed a dock had been in the same place for many years.

Yet another motion, approved by four board members before the final motion, said the right-of-way is not fully defined and therefore the appeals board cannot make a judgment. Board members Dale Worster and Michael Gee did not support the motion, saying the boundary is not an appeals board issue.

Meader and other residents of the subdivision who use the dock agreed on a few facts. The dock stands at the water end of a 15-foot-wide private right-of-way to China Lake; use and maintenance of the right-of-way is governed by an agreement among the residents.

The parties disagreed about whether the dock has been there since before China required permits for docks. If it has, it is “grandfathered” and can continue to be used, and when necessary improved, without a town permit.

Sheila and Brian Higgins, Christopher Pike and Stephanie Uhlman-Pike and Stan and Linda Rodrigue all said the dock had been there for many years – their now-grown children played on it. When the Higgins’ original wooden dock became too battered, Pike bought a replacement.

The Roderigues brought to the hearing an aerial photo showing the dock. Stan Roderigue said the photo dated from the days when the late Senator Edmund Muskie owned a China Lake home. (Biographies of the Senator refer to the family’s China Lake property in the 1950s and 1960s.)

Meader claimed the dock had been put in six years ago and was blocking half of the stairs to the lake. The rest of the right-of-way owners said there were no access or safety issues.

The exact location of the right-of-way is also disputed. During about eight years of argument – ever since the Meaders arrived, according to Sheila Higgins and Christopher Pike – involving lawyers and law enforcement personnel, two surveys were done locating the right-of-way boundary in two places five feet apart. A third survey has been commissioned but not completed.

Mitnik, in a written statement of facts that he summarized for the board, said Higgins did not need a permit to put the dock at the end of the right-of-way because the dock is grandfathered. A seasonal dock requires only one permit, not annual renewals, he said. Other issues, like the parties’ land use agreement, safety and trespass questions, he considers are not in his jurisdiction.

In 2016, according to the discussion, Meader put his own dock at the end of the right-of-way and Higgins put a dock off Roderigues’ land, with the Roderigues’ permission and an after-the-fact permit from Mitnik. Higgins said he moved his dock back to the right-of-way this summer because he did not want to continue having access over the Rodrigues’ land. Board of Appeals members found this information irrelevant to their decision.

Roger Williams University announces dean’s list

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Select students have been named to the Spring 2017 dean’s list at Roger Williams University, in Bristol, Rhode Island. Full-time students who complete 12 or more credits per semester and earn a GPA of 3.4 or higher are placed on the Dean’s List that semester.

Area students include Jordan King, of Liberty, and Michael Oliveira, of Waterville.

Palermo Library book sale planned

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The Palermo Community Library is having a huge Book Sale on Saturday, September 16, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The sale will continue through September during open hours: Monday 10 a.m. – noon, Tuesday 3 p.m. – 6 p.m., Wednesday 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m., Thursday 3 p.m. – 6 p.m., and Saturday 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

The Palermo Community Library is located at 2789 Route 3, Palermo. For more information please call 207-993-6088, email: palermo@palermo.lib.me.us, or visit www.palermo.lib.me.us.