https://townline.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/TownLineBanner.jpg00Website Editorhttps://townline.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/TownLineBanner.jpgWebsite Editor2023-02-22 13:16:562023-03-08 14:35:23Local Town Meetings Schedule for 2023
Daniel Keller, who is co-conductor of the Mid-Maine Youth Orchestra and on staff at the Southern Maine String Camp conducts the orchestra rehearsal. (photo courtesy of Stephanie Taylor)
“I think of it as a hidden gem in central Maine,” says board president Stephanie Taylor, about the Kennebec Valley Youth Symphony Orchestras (KVYSO), an independent nonprofit formed in 2018 as an outgrowth of the Pineland Suzuki School of music, in Manchester. The initiative was an effort to bring the string musicians of the Suzuki School together with local students of wind, brass and percussion instruments for a full orchestral experience.
Stephanie Taylor
Taylor, a professor of Computer Science, at Colby College, in Waterville, and mother to one former and one current student member of the orchestra, serves as both the president of the board and the group’s webmaster.
“I’m the president of the board,” she says, “which basically just means I’m an involved parent.”
The orchestra consists of two ensembles, the Kennebec Valley Youth Orchestra for intermediate students, and the Kennebec Valley Youth Symphony for advanced students. Middle school and high school students are encouraged to audition, with placement determined by skill level. KVYSO is especially looking for percussion, brass, and wind instrumentalists.
The group works hard to avoid conflicts with other activities in which the students may be involved, such as sports or other musical groups. They hold two ten-week seasons each year, culminating with a public concert. Their off-season is January and February, when the Mid-Maine Youth Orchestra is active, so that students can participate in both groups if they wish. Frequently, KVYSO schedules trips such as the one planned for New York City in April.
Tuition for participation in the Intermediate Orchestra is $100 per semester, and $165 per semester for the Advanced Orchestra. Financial aid is also available for parents who wish to apply.
The Kennebec Valley Youth Symphony Orchestras are currently holding auditions for their spring season, and holds rolling auditions throughout the year. Students can schedule an audition appointment by filling out the form on their website and emailing it to Betsy Kobayashi, Education Director, at info@kvyso.org.
The orchestras are conducted by Jinwook Park, the orchestra conductor at Colby College, and Daniel Keller, who is co-conductor of the Mid-Maine Youth Orchestra and on staff at the Southern Maine String Camp. Keller is an inductee of both the Maine Music Education Association Hall of Fame and the National Music Hall of Fame for Music Educators. Of Jinwook Park, Taylor says, “He is incredible musically and the students absolutely love him. He’s a very nice guy that pushes them to do really amazing stuff.”
The Kennebec Valley Youth Orchestra’s next concert is scheduled for Friday, May 5, at 6:30 p.m., with the location to be determined. Watch The Town Line’sCalendar of Events for updates or visit the Schedule and Concert Information page on their website at kvyso.org.
https://townline.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/TownLineBanner.jpg00Eric W. Austinhttps://townline.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/TownLineBanner.jpgEric W. Austin2023-02-22 13:01:152023-02-22 13:01:54KVYSO a hidden gem in central Maine
This February, staff at Sheepscot Valley Health Center, are welcoming Brooke Perez, Physician Assistant, to the team.
Brooke earned her master’s degree in Physician Assisting from Trevecca Nazarene University of Tennessee. Previously, she earned her bachelor’s degree in Pre-Medicine from the Eastern Nazarene College of Massachusetts. Brooke draws from a solid background in rural medicine and urgent care, along with experience in local inpatient facilities.
Brooke shares, “I am thrilled to transition into family practice, and to have the opportunity to blend my existing knowledge of orthopedics and inpatient medicine to provide high-quality healthcare for the whole family. Collaborating with my patients to help them reach their health goals is very important to me. I am excited to contribute to a healthier community here in Central Maine”.
Brooke joins physicians Ann Schwink and Kathryn Wistar; physician assistants Anna Simmler, Craig Urwin, and Zachary Wissman; and psychiatric nurse practitioner Nancy Glover. Our clinicians offer medical and behavioral health services for patients of all ages.
Residents of Coopers Mills and Whitefield – and nearby towns – have enjoyed quality care at the Sheepscot Valley Health Center since its founding in 1980.
Sheepscot Valley Health Center is a part of HealthReach Community Health Centers, a group of 12 Federally-Qualified Health Centers located across Central and Western Maine.
https://townline.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/TownLineBanner.jpg00Website Editorhttps://townline.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/TownLineBanner.jpgWebsite Editor2023-02-15 15:14:442023-02-15 15:14:44Sheepscot Valley Health Center welcomes physician assistant, Brooke Perez
The Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation has recently awarded a $10,900 grant to Smithfield Volunteer Fire & Rescue to purchase a Groves extractor & gear dryer. The new equipment will allow first responders to be better prepared in emergency situations and protect the citizens of Smithfield as well as volunteer members. The grant is part of more than $73 million given by Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation to public safety organizations across the U.S.
The awarded grant will be used to purchase a Groves extractor and gear dryer, in order to wash and dry our volunteer’s personal protective equipment (PPE).
For the past 16 years, donations have been the driving force behind Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation® supporting first responders and public safety organizations nationwide.
https://townline.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/TownLineBanner.jpg00Website Editorhttps://townline.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/TownLineBanner.jpgWebsite Editor2023-02-15 14:54:062023-02-15 14:54:06Smithfield Volunteer Fire & Rescue awarded lifesaving equipment grant
U.S. Senator Angus King speaks with the children. (contributed photo)
Sen. King with The Neighborhood Child Care Center owner Jennifer Lizotte. (contributed photo)
U.S. Senator Angus King recently visited The Neighborhood Child Care Center, in Winslow, to observe firsthand how funds from the American Reinvestment Plan Act (ARPA) have benefited child care centers. Meeting with Executive Director Jennifer Lizotte, Senator King spoke about investing in the child care industry stating, “Quality early care and education is critical for folks to get back to work.” He also spoke about how important it was for families to have a safe, secure center where children have opportunities for social skill building, healthy snacks, daily physical activities, and enrichment including STEM activities. He stated, “Having quality child care also stimulates the economy.”
The senator was one of the primary architects of the the American Reinvestment Plan Act which has provided a unique opportunity for state and local governments.
During his visit, Jennifer explained the challenges of opening and running a child care center in the midst of the pandemic. ARPA funding provided the financial stability needed for the center to remain open and provide care for approximately 50 families. “Parents need to be able to go to work even during a pandemic” noted Jennifer. “We all still need to be able to pay bills and put food on the table. It’s nearly impossible for parents to do this without childcare. ARPA funding allowed us to survive these challenges”.
https://townline.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/TownLineBanner.jpg00Website Editorhttps://townline.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/TownLineBanner.jpgWebsite Editor2023-02-15 14:19:122023-02-15 14:20:01Sen. King visits local child care center
*$300 North Country Rivers White Water Rafting trip for two, won by Mary Beth Sica.
*$260 Natanis Golf Course Tomahawk Course & Cart (for 4), won by Carol T.
*$220 Natanis Golf Course Arrow Course & Cart (for 4), won by Lori London.
*$150 donated by Reliance Equipment won by Duane Farnham who donated it back to the VBA.
*$122 DeWalt DCB102 charger from Winslow Supply won by Chase Prye.
*$100+ 24M-6 Vehicle battery; carrier, terminal combo wrench, terminal protection kit, and ice scraper & snow broom from 201 Battery, Tire & Service won by Alan Johnston.
*$100 donated by Future Forests won by Scott Folsom.
*Two $50 prizes donated by Maine Savings Federal Credit Union won by Chris Thompson and the Blactentons.
*Miracle II Product ($18) from Sandy’s Magic Scissors won by Candy Manacchio.
*$50 from Maine Adirondack Chairs won by Peter Leach.
*$30 from Curly’s Carpentry won by Jake Swan.
*$50 from Pleau’s Market won by Raymond Maccacchio.
*Two $25 cards from Hussey’s General Store won by Noah Rau and Carol T.
*Two $50 cards from Central Maine Motors won by Donald Breton and Carol T.
*$20 Kat’s Creations Penguin won by Carol T.
*$10 Mistletoad Shop flower vase won by Gidney.
*$10 Mistletoad Shop small crate won by Sue Vashon.
*$10 Pam Butterfield’s Sloth quilted lap blanket won by Yvette LaChance.
The following area students have been named to the dean’s list at the University of New Hampshire, in Durham, New Hampshire, for the fall 2022 semester.
Julia Riley, of Augusta, earning highest honors;
Brady Barre, of Waterville, earning highest honors;
Jordin Carey, of Waterville, earning highest honors;
Grace Bilodeau, of Winslow, earning honors;
Abigail LaRochelle, of Fairfield, earning highest honors;
Victoria Broadley, of Skowhegan, earning honors; and
Taylor Cassiani, of Skowhegan, earning highest honors.
https://townline.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/TownLineBanner.jpg00Website Editorhttps://townline.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/TownLineBanner.jpgWebsite Editor2023-02-15 13:58:132023-02-15 13:58:13University of New Hampshire’s dean’s list for the Fall 2022 semester
Front row, from left to right, Isaac Audette, Sam Quick, and Brady Newell. Second row, Chuck Mahaleris, Nathan Choate, Kameron Rossignol, Nicholas Choate, Sam Boynton, and Scoutmaster Christian Hunter. Back row, Sean Boynton, Bruce Rueger, Matt Bodine, Michael Choate, Derek Rossignol, and Ronald Emery. Absent from photo are Scott Adams, and Priscilla Adams. (photo courtesy of Ron Emery)
On February 5 – Boy Scout Sunday – the Boy Scouts from Troop #479, along with some of their leaders, provided the Morning Worship Service at the China Baptist Church. The scouts, under the leadership of Scoutmaster Christian Hunter, have taken part in Scout Sunday Worship service for 30 years (Missing 2019-2021 because of COVID restrictions). Very few Boy Scout troops in the Kennebec Valley District are provided this opportunity. The scouts from Troop #479 were invited to prepare some of the worship service by Rev. Ronald Morrell. Under Rev. Morrell’s direction and with assistance from the Committee Member Ronald Emery, the worship service gave each of the scouts a chance to participate in the Sunday Morning Worship, as follows:
Call to Worship, by Scout Nathan Choate; Invocation and Lord’s Prayerby Scout Sam Quick; Responsive Reading, The Scout Lawby Scout Kameron Rossignol; A Scout Remembrance and Tribute In memory of Scout Rémy Pettengill, by Chuck Mahaleris Kennebec Valley District Chairman; Preparation for Prayerby Scout Nicholas Choate; Pastoral Prayerby Scout Sam Boynton; Children’s Message, The Five Finger Prayer by Scout Leader Derek Rossignol; Scripture Reading, The Scout Beatitudes by Scout Isaac Audette; Offering:Nicholas Choate, Nathan Choate, Sam Boynton, Kameron Rossignol; Prayer of Thanksgiving and Dedication, by Scout Isaac Audette; Message ‘IF GOD COULD SPEAK’,by Scout Leaders Mike Choate and Ronald Emery; Benedictionby Scout Brady Newell; Invitation and Prayer for Refreshmentsby Scout Leader Ronald Emery
The twelfth point of the Scout law, a Scout is Reverent, was exemplified by the scouts. A large congregation including boys and leaders in uniforms enjoyed the Sunday service. Fellowship hour was hosted by Troop #479 in the vestry.
https://townline.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/TownLineBanner.jpg00Ron Emeryhttps://townline.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/TownLineBanner.jpgRon Emery2023-02-15 12:37:162023-02-15 12:37:16China scouts provide morning worship on Boy Scout Sunday
A multi-generational team of Mainers is campaigning for an amendment that would enshrine environmental rights in the Maine Constitution’s Declaration of Rights. The Pine Tree Amendment (PTA) is a proposed amendment to the Maine State Constitution that would secure the right to clean air, clean water, and a healthy environment for all people in Maine, including future generations. This amendment would create a robust legal pathway for protecting Maine’s ecosystems.
On Friday, January 27, at a virtual lunch and learn event, Maine’s Environmental Priorities Coalition (EPC) announced the Pine Tree Amendment is again on their list of environmental priorities for this legislative session. The EPC is a partnership of 37 environmental, conservation, and public health organizations that “works together to identify important legislation and votes to determine their Common Agenda for each legislative session.” The EPC’s decision to include the Pine Tree Amendment among their legislative priorities for the second time suggests that this issue is important to Mainers and that the PTA has the capacity to make a significant impact in protecting Maine’s environment.
“The Pine Tree Amendment will encourage sustainable and forward-thinking development, industry, and business growth. It will also incentivize government officials to make decisions that will accomplish economic and business objectives while also protecting water, air, soils, food, forests, wetlands, climate, and other natural resources,” said Representative Maggie O’Neil, the House sponsor for the bill. “Our environment is critical to sustaining healthy, safe, and successful lives and economies, and Maine’s constitution should be reflective of that fact.”
In the 2022 legislative session, a bipartisan PTA bill (LD 489), with strong community-based grassroots support, and the endorsement of the Environmental Priorities Coalition and many Maine businesses, received strong support in the Senate but fell short of a two-thirds majority in the House. The Pine Tree Amendment will require a 2/3 majority vote in both chambers to be placed on the ballot in November as a statewide referendum.
“All people in Maine deserve the right to clean air, clean water, and a healthy environment, and they deserve it now,” said Cole Cochrane, the Legislative Director for Maine Youth Action, a youth-led organization advocating for environmental justice in Maine. “This is truly the bare minimum in terms of what people in Maine should have for rights, and yet these rights are not stated or protected by Maine’s Constitution. The Pine Tree Amendment would change that, ensuring that these constitutionally protected rights are upheld by Maine state and local governments.”
https://townline.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/TownLineBanner.jpg00Website Editorhttps://townline.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/TownLineBanner.jpgWebsite Editor2023-02-08 17:11:592023-02-08 17:11:59Pine Tree Amendment citizens continue to advocate for protected rights
Lindsay Hamilton, daughter of Matthew and Marsha, of Clinton, a senior at Carrabec High School, in North Anson, has been selected to receive the 2023 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.
According to Campbell, Ms. Hamilton has distinguished herself in the classroom, on the basketball court, and as a leader in the school. She has a positive attitude, is hard-working, kind, and humble, all of which will ensure her future success.
Academically, Lindsay has challenged herself throughout her high school years. Her hard work and perseverance have made her one of the top students of the Class of 2023. Her eagerness and enthusiasm makes her a leader and a role model in our school.
Lindsay drives 45 minutes from Clinton every day to be part of the school community. Lindsay shines strong at Carrabec as she applies enthusiasm and passion into everything she does. Strong and focused, Lindsay has played an important role on Carrabec’s teams. She is a supportive team player, she holds and shows respect for all her teammates and coaches.
Ms. Hamilton not only thrives in the sports worlds, but is also an important member of Carrabec’s math team. Lindsay is also a member of the National Honor Society and was chosen as Student of the Month for her graduating class.
For all of these reasons, Mr. Campbell is proud to announce that Lindsay Hamilton is the Carrabec High School MPA Award recipient for 2023. Lindsay will attend an awards luncheon on April 1, 2023, where she will receive her award and be eligible to be selected for one of ten scholarships.
https://townline.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/TownLineBanner.jpg00Website Editorhttps://townline.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/TownLineBanner.jpgWebsite Editor2023-02-08 15:48:592023-02-08 15:48:59Lindsay Hamilton is Carrabec’s Principal’s Award winner
2023 Vassalboro ice fishing derby prizes
The following area students have been named to the dean’s list at the University of New Hampshire, in Durham, New Hampshire, for the fall 2022 semester.
A multi-generational team of Mainers is campaigning for an amendment that would enshrine environmental rights in the Maine Constitution’s Declaration of Rights. The Pine Tree Amendment (PTA) is a proposed amendment to the Maine State Constitution that would secure the right to clean air, clean water, and a healthy environment for all people in Maine, including future generations. This amendment would create a robust legal pathway for protecting Maine’s ecosystems.