Rotary Club wraps up successful auction

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The 59th annual Waterville Rotary Auction with hundreds of gifts, services and discount items wrapped up the first week of December. Every year, for more than half a century, this important community event has supported Rotary’s efforts to make a difference in the community. Proceeds from the auction will again go to support community programs and initiatives in early childhood development and education, helping to ensure a bright future for our community’s most vulnerable and valuable asset, our children.

This year, Rotary Club of Waterville identified the construction of the new Children’s Discovery Museum and the development of a second natural play area at Educare Central Maine as recipients of auction proceeds. Both of these amazing organizations located in Waterville make a difference for the children served, with programs focused around childhood literacy and development.

Rotary Club of Waterville thanks the community for its support and contribution to area businesses and to the promotion of literacy in central Maine and beyond. Your participation generated nearly 240 items donated to the auction, resulting in net proceeds over $18,000.

Special thanks are extended to the auction committee, Mix 107.9 for live coverage and interviews during the auction, Central Maine Motors Auto Group, the Mid-Maine Chamber, and fellow Rotarians for assistance in this undertaking.

For more information about the Rotary, visit the website at http://www.watervillerotary.com.

Eight local scouts complete training

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China Baptist Church

by Chuck Mahaleris

Eight Scout leaders completed Youth Protection Training at a course held at the China Baptist Church, on January 4, 2023. Joe Poulin, of Oakland, who serves as the training chairman for Pine Tree Council, led the program. Those completing the course, which is required annually for all leaders who work directly with scouts, were Matthew Bodine, Ronald Emery, Aiden Pettengill, Samuel Boynton, Scott Adams, and Priscilla Adams, all of China; Luanne Chesley, of Vassalboro, and Brian Wedge, of Belgrade.

Poulin said, “Being a leader in the BSA is a privilege, not a right. The quality of the program and the safety of our youth members call for high-quality adult leaders. Each adult leader must agree to undergo a criminal background check and annually complete the Youth Protection Training course either online or in person. Before we can take Scouts camping or teach them how to tie knots, we have to make sure they are in safe hands.”

Scout leaders are mandatory reporters if abuse is suspected and should take the following steps:

  1. Ensure the child is in a safe environment.
  2. In cases of child abuse injury or medical emergencies, call 911 immediately. In addition, if the suspected abuse occurred in the scout’s home or family, you are required by state law to immediately report/contact the local child abuse hotline.
  3. Notify the scout executive or his/her designee, if he/she cannot be reached call the 24/7 Scouts First Helpline at 1-844-726-8871 or email, scoutsfirst@scouting.org.

Big Brothers, Big Sisters needed for 100 waiting Littles

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Little Sister Ryder Perkins meets with her Big Sister Hayley SooHoo once a week to chat while they draw, color, takes walks, and sometimes even learn new dances together. Their friendship was created through Big Brothers Big Sisters of Mid-Maine’s longstanding, one-to-one mentoring program that matches children facing adversity with positive role models. (contributed photo)

by Monica Charette

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Mid-Maine (BBBSMM) kicks off the new year and National Mentoring Month in January with an effort to recruit adult volunteers in the community to serve as mentors to 100 children waiting to be matched.

“Bettering yourself in the new year is a fantastic goal,” Big Brothers Big Sisters of Mid-Maine Interim Executive Director Mae Slevisky, says. “This year, we encourage people to think about how they can do that by also bettering their community—by becoming a Big Brother or Big Sister.”

According to Slevinsky, there has never been a more critical time for mentoring.

“The events of the past few years have taken their toll on our most vulnerable citizens—our children. The isolation brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic has hampered the social and academic progress of many kids, and many more are experiencing mental health challenges,” she said. “Kids need mentors now more than ever, to help them navigate challenges, open up doors of opportunity, and give them additional support they may need to excel in school and in their communities.”

According to Slevinsky, BBBS of Mid-Maine currently has 100 youth in its seven-county service area waiting to be matched with a mentor. Becoming a Big means committing to spending a couple of hours a week with a young person doing things you and your Little like to do, like playing outside, visiting the library, or taking a walk, she said. Matches also explore new activities together, like visiting a museum or skiing for the first time. “It’s about having fun, being a friend, and nurturing a child’s greatest potential.”

Adult mentors are interviewed, screened and trained, and receive ongoing support from BBBS of Mid-Maine professional staff, including regular match support meetings to ensure safety and help strengthen relationships. Successful volunteers are responsible, caring adults, who enjoy working with youth of all ages and backgrounds, have excellent listening and communication skills, are patient, willing to learn, and share in the BBBS mission of igniting the power and promise of local youth.

To learn more about Littles waiting, follow BBBS of Mid-Maine’s weekly “Waiting Wednesday” Facebook posts. For information on how to become a Big or enroll a child, visit bbbsmidmaine.org, email info@bbbsmidmaine.org or call 207-236-BBBS (2227).

PHOTO: Frisbee relays

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Pictured are Sam Madison with frisbee, John Gray who serves as the Denner, and Wesley Danielson. (contributed photo)

On Monday January 9, 2023, Tiger Den #410 members got together to learn about teamwork, good sportsmanship, following rules, and how to hustle. They battled it out in a fierce frisbee relay! The Tiger Adult Partners joined in the fun and Vassalboro Community School supported the Tigers, according to Vassalboro Cub Scout Pack #410 Cubmaster Chris Santiago. The Tiger Cubs are first grade members of the Cub Scout pack.

Jeremy Croft earns Eagle Scout rank

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Croft Eagle Scout Project. All Eagles are required to complete a significant project to improve their community. Last April, Jeremy led other Scouts and friends in building five large wooden planters for the town of Oakland replacing the old rusted tricycle planters. In the spring they are placed on traffic islands and other locations around town. (photo by Jennifer Croft)

by Chuck Mahaleris

Jeremy Tilson Croft, of Sidney, received Scouting’s Eagle Scout rank during a ceremony on Wednesday, January 4, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, on Washington Street, in Waterville. Family, friends, and Scouts from Troop #417 and Troop #401 were on hand to watch the culmination of years of work.

Troop #401 Scoutmaster Eric Handley served as Master of Ceremonies and praised Jeremy. “Jeremy is the guy that wants to be out doing! Jeremy is in his element outside, camping, playing soccer, hiking and just doing.”One milestone in his Scouting career came last year when Jeremy joined other Scouts from the troop on a trip to Gettysburg and visited other historic sites.

Jeremy’s mother placed the Eagle pin on her son. He is the fourth Croft son to earn Scouting’s highest rank. Tayler received his Eagle Scout rank in 2016, Cameron in 2017 and Tieran in 2018. She explained what scouting means to their entire family. “Scouting has been a wonderful addition to our family,” Jennifer said. “It has taught our boys skills and principles that have already benefited them in their life. They all have learned to love camping and the outdoors, they have learned new things through their merit badges, and have learned how to be better citizens through serving in our community. Devin and I have been adult leaders and Devin was a merit badge counselor throughout the years. We have been able to help other scouts learn these principles as well. Our family has been grateful for the opportunity scouting has given us to be a part of our community.”

Jeremy Croft lives in Sidney and attends Messalonskee High School, in Oakland, as a sophomore. He served as Assistant Senior Patrol Leader for Troop #401.

Croft Family Photo from 2018. Front, Jeremy Croft wearing the blue Cub Scout shirt. Back, from left to right, Cameron Croft, Jennifer Croft, Devin Croft, Tayler Croft, and Tieran Croft. Jeremy is the fourth Croft to earn Eagle Scout. Tayler received his Eagle Scout rank in 2016, Cameron in 2017 and Tieran in 2018.

Legislative bills submitted by area senators and representatives as of Friday, Jan. 6, 2023

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(photo by Eric W. Austin)

L.D. 17, H.P. 21

An Act to Amend the Membership Requirements of the State Claims Commission. (Presented by Representative WHITE of Waterville)

L.D. 18, H.P. 22

An Act to Provide Ongoing Funding for up to 2 Years of Community College for Certain Maine Students. (Presented by Representative BRIDGEO of Augusta)

L.D. 24, S.P. 16

An Act to Prohibit Open Burning Under a Red Flag Warning and Regulate Recreational Campfires. (Presented by Senator CURRY of Waldo)

L.D. 25, S.P. 17

An Act to Provide Indigenous Peoples Free Access to State Parks. (Presented by Senator HICKMAN of Kennebec)

L.D. 27, S.P. 19

An Act to Align Maine’s Lead Abatement Law with Federal Definitions and to Clarify Lead Abatement Licensing and Certification Requirements. (Presented by Senator POULIOT of Kennebec)

L.D. 30, S.P. 22

An Act to Increase the Statutory Fee for Defensive Driving Courses. (Presented by Senator FARRIN of Somerset)

L.D. 31, S.P. 23

An Act to Allow the Commissioner of Transportation to Reduce Speed Limits at Construction Sites with Input from Municipalities and Utilities. (Presented by Senator FARRIN of Somerset)

L.D. 34, S.P. 26

An Act to Require a Person to Show Photographic Identification for the Purpose of Voting. (Presented by Senator POULIOT of Kennebec)

L.D. 37, S.P. 29

An Act to Amend the Laws Governing Property Tax Stabilization for Senior Citizens to Eliminate the Requirement for an Annual Application. (Presented by Senator POULIOT of Kennebec)

L.D. 40, S.P. 32

An Act to Amend the Cannabis Laws. (Presented by Senator HICKMAN of Kennebec)

L.D. 42, S.P. 34

An Act Regarding the Commissioner of Corrections’ Role in Death Benefit Determinations and Regarding Training for Corrections Officers. (Presented by Senator LAFOUNTAIN of Kennebec)

L.D. 46, S.P. 38

An Act to Amend the Statutory Balance Limit on the Finance Authority of Maine’s Loan Insurance Reserves. (Presented by Senator CURRY of Waldo)

L.D. 47, S.P. 39

An Act to Amend the Law Governing Licensing Actions of the Emergency Medical Services’ Board. (Presented by Senator LAFOUNTAIN of Kennebec)

L.D. 55, H.P. 30

An Act to Move the Headquarters for the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife. (Presented by Representative BRIDGEO of Augusta)

L.D. 63, H.P. 38

An Act to Clarify That Certain Imported Motor Vehicles Are Not Off-road Vehicles. (Presented by Representative RUDNICKI of Fairfield)

L.D. 64, H.P. 39

An Act to Ensure In-state Tuition for Postsecondary Students Who Are Registered to Vote in the State. (Presented by Representative RUDNICKI of Fairfield)

L.D. 65, H.P. 40

An Act to Require That Printing Services Provided to the General Public by the University of Maine System Be Provided at Market Rates. (Presented by Representative RUDNICKI of Fairfield)

L.D. 83, S.P. 50

An Act to Clarify State Policy Regarding the Use of Cannabis Paraphernalia in the Maine Medical Use of Cannabis Act. (EMERGENCY) (Presented by Senator HICKMAN of Kennebec)

Copies of the Bills may be obtained from the Document Room, First Floor, State House, Augusta, Maine 04333-0002 – Ph: 207-287-1408. Bill text, bill status and roll call information are available on the Internet at http://legislature.maine.gov/LawMakerWeb/search.asp.

The Weekly Legislative Report is also available on the Internet at the House home page at http://legislature.maine.gov/house/house/ under the “Documents” tab.

Davis named to dean’s list at Olivet Nazarene University

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Lozetta Davis, of Waterville, was named to the dean’s list at Olivet Nazarene University, in Bourbonnais, Illinois, during the recently completed fall 2022 semester. To qualify for inclusion on the dean’s list, a student must have been enrolled as a full-time undergraduate student and must have attained a semester grade point average of 3.50 or higher on a 4.00 grading scale.

Olivet Nazarene University is an accredited Christian, liberal arts university offering more than 140 areas of undergraduate and graduate study, including the Doctor of Education in ethical leadership.

Ashley Carrier makes the dean’s list at Shenandoah

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Ashley Carrier, of Madison, is one of 1,087 students who earned a spot on the Dean’s List at Shenandoah University, in Winchester, Virginia, for the fall 2022 semester.

ALBION/PALERMO: HealthReach welcomes Melanie Morin

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Melanie Morin

This March, staff at Lovejoy Health Center and Sheepscot Valley Health Center will be welcoming Melanie Morin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, to the team.

Melanie earned her master’s degree in psychiatric nursing from Husson University, of Bangor. Previously, she earned her Bach­elor’s de­gree in Nursing from the University of Maine at Fort Kent, and her Associate’s degree in Nursing from Kennebec Valley Community College. Melanie brings a wealth of experience in whole-person (holistic) patient care, and specifically in evidence-based treatments for mental illness.

Melanie shares, “My philosophy of care is to treat patients with respect and dignity – providing care for patients in the same way as I would want to be treated if I was in a similar situation. It is my belief that this way of caring for patients creates an environment of attention that is more conducive to healing. Focusing on the whole person means caring for their physical wellbeing as well as considering their emotional and spiritual wellbeing. Each of these aspects is integral to the whole person.” Melanie joins physicians Dean Chamberlain, Ann Schwink and Kathryn Wistar; physician assistants Nichole Johnston, Anna Simmler, Craig Urwin, and Zachary Wissman; nurse practitioner Keiko Kurita; licensed clinical social worker Deborah Daigle; and licensed clinical professional counselor Ashley Rancourt. Our clinicians offer medical and behavioral health services for patients of all ages.

VASSALBORO: Karen Hatch named community program director

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Largest turnout for cribbage.

During the FY22 Vassalboro budget process a new part-time position, “Community Program Director”, was funded as of July 1, 2022, to not only oversee the youth sports aspect of the recreation department but to also bring new recreational programs to the Community.

A “little” history:

Previously, the Vassalboro Recreation Department was run by volunteers on the Vassalboro Recreation Committee. Members were appointed to the committee by the select board. By-laws were set in place for the committee. A chairman was designated and paid a small stipend to oversee the youth sports. Each youth sport currently has a volunteer “Commissioner” that have the responsibility of setting up all the logistics that are needed to instruct the children, purchase supplies, obtain and train coaches and any volunteers needed to help run the program.

Unfortunately, there has been a lot of turnovers on the committee causing the towns folks concern of what appeared to be disorganization of the recreation department. New folks joining the board found themselves starting from scratch and having to figure out things as they went.

The current members of the recreation committee are Melissa Olsen, soccer commissioner, Ryan Reed, basketball commissioner, John Fortin, coach, and Karen Howard, sponsor commissioner. Vacant are snack shack commissioner, and baseball and softball commissioner.

Karen Hatch

Karen Hatch has a bachelor of science degree in health, physical education and recreation from the University of Maine at Presque Isle. Throughout her career she has held a variety of positions that have kept her in the recreation realm. When she was hired by the city of Augusta it was first as the assistant recreation director along with overseeing the School Age Childcare Program. The Childcare Program grew such that it needed a director of its own, so she chose that position over recreation. She was still able to work on committees with the recreation department planning special events such as the annual Christmas Tree Lighting.

She retired in 2019, after working 27 years for the city of Augusta as the School-Aged Childcare Director. When she retired, she had accomplished obtaining State Childcare Licensing for five childcare sites, with each one being Nationally Accredited School-Age Childcare Programs. She didn’t accomplish the task on her own. She had a terrific staff that worked alongside her.

She was happily retired until she saw the advertisement in The Town Line newspaper for a part-time, 20 hour a week, work from home, Community Program Director for the town of Vassalboro.

She applied for the position in July and was hired. She began work on August 1, 2022.

Her first day she spent going over the “who-was-who” list in Vassalboro with her boss, the Town Manager, Mary Sabins, and getting a tour of the town. They talked about the job description and that the focus of the position is to provide non-athletic recreational activities for the residents of Vassalboro of all ages.

She was then a bit surprised when she was told they had a 10 a.m. meeting with folks on the recreation fields to see about getting work done on them. It didn’t take her long to realize the job was the community program director, a/k/a recreation director.

She soon found herself busy with meeting folks and learning what events took place by which group and when. Her first big event was Vassalboro Days where she set up a booth to be able to introduce herself as the new community program director. As she began planning a trip to the Fryeburg Fair in October for the seniors, the youth soccer season was underway. Thankfully, Melissa Olsen, the soccer commissioner was experienced in running the program so Karen could observe how things ran and assist where needed. Due to there not being a person in charge of the snack shack for the fall season and some folks that signed up to work in there not being able to work, Karen spend Saturdays volunteering time working with folks that were able to be there.

Vassalboro recreational soccer.

On October 19, 2022, she began offering cribbage to seniors (and anyone really that wanted to play) at the town office from 1 – 3 p.m. To date there has been a nice turnout. What a joy it is to see folks having a good time playing cribbage and enjoying each other’s company.

Basketball is now upon us. Commissioner Ryan Reed is doing a great job rounding up coaches and volunteers. Basketball requires a lot more volunteers than most sports because you not only need coaches and assistants, but you need volunteers to run the clock, keep score and officiate the games. There is a lot of coordinating with the Vassalboro Community School Administration to use the school for games and practices.

The Vassalboro Recreation Department pays for custodians to be in the school building for the Saturday basketball games.

Currently there is not a baseball or softball commissioner, and Karen is searching for someone to fill these positions. If anyone is interested, please contact her at khatch@vassalboro.net.

Hatch says the Vassalboro Recreation Department unpaid volunteers are the glue that holds the department together. Volunteers enable sports programs to be offered, officiate sport games, help with special events, help with fundraising, work in the snack shack, are on the rec committee and maintain the sports fields.

Volunteering benefits the communities in which folks live and serve. Come be part of the community, meet new people, gain confidence in trying something new, learn new skills, share skills you have, take on a challenge, make a difference, have FUN!

All volunteers are required to have a background check done by the town. If anyone is interested in volunteering, contact Karen at khatch@vassalboro.net.

DID YOU KNOW…

The Maine Agriculture, Conservation & Forestry Department-Parks & Lands, offer a X-Country Ski & Snowshoe Trailer at Maine State Parks, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., on certain dates? Jan. 28 & 29 – Camden Hills State Park, Camden, Maine (207) 368-0849.

You may contact Karen with any thoughts, suggestions or concerns by email at khatch@vassalboro.net.