EVENTS: Messalonskee girls soccer plans annual mentoring day

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Sadie Pieh, left, helps Pearl Pelsman through the obstacle course at last year’s ShineOn Saturday. The 10th annual event connects area youth girls with Messalonskee girls soccer players for a fun day of skills, games, and positive youth mentoring. ShineOn Saturday is held annually to honor former Eagle midfielder and youth mentor Cassidy Charette. The event is free to all interested girls, Pre-K to Grade 5, on Saturday, September 13, from noon to 2 p.m., at the Messalonskee High School Grass Soccer Field, in Oakland. To register, visit shineoncass.org. (contributed photo)

Messalonskee High School Girls Soccer and the ShineOnCass Foundation will host its 10th annual girls’ youth mentoring day “ShineOn Saturday” September 13, from noon to 2 p.m., on the Messalonskee High School Grass Soccer Field, in Oakland. The event is held to honor former Messalonskee soccer player and youth mentor Cassidy Charette, who died in a hayride accident October 11, 2014.

Area girls, ages pre-kindergarten to fifth grade, are invited to attend this free event. Soccer skills are not required. In addition to participating in skill building and fun field games, attendees will receive a free snack, an autographed team poster, a ShineOnCass wristband, and are invited to participate in Girls Youth Soccer Recognition Day at the Lady Eagles’ home game on October 4, 10 a.m., on the Messalonskee turf field.

To register for ShineOn Saturday, visit shineoncass.org.

The ShineOnCass Foundation was created to educate, inspire, and empower youth to shine their own light through kindness and volunteer charitable activities. For more information about the ShineOn Saturday event or the Foundation, visit shineoncass.org or email shineoncass@gmail.com

EVENTS: VUMC new elevator/lift to be dedicated Sept. 7

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Harvey Boatman, project coordinator, gives the maiden voyage in the church’s new lift/elevator to VUMC matriarch, 94-year-old Theresa White. (contributed photo)

Vassalboro United Methodist Church (VUMC), at 614 Main Street, in Vassalboro, is planning a special service for 10 a.m., Sunday, September 7, to celebrate improved accessibility in their sanctuary and fellowship hall. The Sunday service will be followed by the dedication and blessing of their new lift/elevator and a reception and time of fellowship. An honors plaque will be unveiled which recognizes and thanks those individuals, organizations and businesses that made the addition of their new lift possible. Installation of the lift, a second exit door in the fellowship hall and enhancements made to the sound system as well as other improvements and additions have been made to increase accessibility throughout their building. These projects took two years to complete thanks to the grace of God. All are welcome to attend!

EVENTS: CPL Andrew L. Hutchins Memorial ride honors fallen hero

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CPL. Andrew L. Hutchins Memorial Ride participants at the start location with Travis Mills. (contributed photo)

On August 2, riders from across the region gathered to honor the life and sacrifice of Corporal Andrew L. Hutchins with a powerful 61-mile memorial ride that spanned one hour and 37 minutes.

Now in its second year, the CPL Andrew L. Hutchins Memorial Ride brings together community members, veterans, families, and supporters to remember a local hero who gave his life in service to his country. The ride began at Route 202 Pizza & Grille and followed a scenic route through northern Maine, ending at Carrabec High School, in North Anson, where participants paused to reflect and celebrate Andrew’s legacy.

“One of our core goals is helping people realize that anyone can find a way to recognize a Gold Star family in their own community. We are just three individuals who had an idea – and turned it into something meaningful,” Said the ride organizers, “And if you’re feeling that nudge to start something in your own community, we’re here to tell you: it’s possible. If you’re someone who’s looking to get something going, let us know! We would love to help out.”

Proceeds from this event went to the Travis Mills Foundation, ensuring his spirit of service continues to live on.

To learn more about the CPL Andrew L. Hutchins Memorial Ride, upcoming events, or how to get involved, visit us on Facebook at CPL. Andrew L. Hutchins Memorial Ride.

EVENTS: Cassidy’s birthday book drive promotes reading

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Jolene Raymond checks out the books in the ShineOnCass Lending Library at Kennebec Valley YMCA, in Augusta, where free books are available to YMCA member families and visitors. (contributed photo)

ShineOnCass Foundation invites the community to join “Cassidy’s Birthday Board Book Drive” to help shine a light on childhood literacy and inspire early reading. The ShineOnCass Foundation, named and created in memory of Cassidy Charette, will collect children’s board books during the month of August to help fill the shelves of ShineOnCass Lending Libraries and local Little Free Libraries. Volunteers will deliver donated books on what would be Cassidy’s 28th birthday on August 31.

New and gently used board books can be donated all month at Camden National Bank at 51 Main Street in Oakland, or at 258 Kennedy Memorial Drive in Waterville. Cassidy, a 17-year-old Oakland resident who died in a hayride accident in 2014, was an avid reader, youth mentor, and a lifelong community volunteer.

This year’s drive is specifically collecting board books for people to read to babies and toddlers, specifically designed with thick, durable cardboard pages and bright illustrations with simple but engaging text.

“Reading to children in their earliest years – even before they can speak – builds a foundation for language, learning, emotional connection, and begins a positive association with reading,” said Monica Charette, Cassidy’s mother and executive director for ShineOnCass. “When we read aloud to babies and toddlers, we’re not just telling stories; we’re sparking curiosity, shaping developing brains, and planting the seed for lifelong readers.”

Books for older readers will also be distributed by the Foundation. A Little Free Library is a “take a book, share a book” free book exchange in communities nationally and internationally. Thousands of Little Free Libraries, owned and supported by volunteer stewards, are in communities in over 120 countries. Dozens of Little Free Libraries are in central Maine, including ShineOnCass Lending Libraries for children at the Alfond Youth and Community Center, in Waterville, and at Kennebec Valley YMCA, in Augusta.

“Early reading is one of the most powerful tools we have to support a child’s development,” Charette said. “Cassidy was an impassioned reader and an advocate for children. Sharing books is the perfect way to celebrate the day she was born. “

For more information about Cassidy’s Birthday Board Book Drive or the ShineOnCass Foundation, visit shineoncass.org.

EVENTS: KPAC announces rehearsal sessions

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The Kennebec Performing Arts Company (KPAC) is pleased to announce its rehearsal and concert schedule for the 2025-2026 season. The KPAC Wind Ensemble and Choir will once again be under the direction of John Neal, while the organization welcomes Russell Caverly as the new director of the KPAC Jazz Band.

In preparation for the KPAC Holiday Concerts on December 5, 7 p.m., at Winthrop Performing Arts Center and December 6, 5 p.m., at Cony High School, rehearsals will begin as follows:

• Choir: Monday, August 25, at 6:30 p.m., at Hope Baptist Church, 726 Western Ave, Manchester, ME 04351.
• Jazz Band: Tuesday, September 2, at 5:45 p.m., in the chorus room, at Cony High School, Pierce Drive, Augusta, ME 04330.
• Wind Ensemble: Tuesday, September 2, at 7 p.m., in the band room, at Cony High School, Augusta, ME.

No preregistration is required for participation.

KPAC invites experienced and committed musicians to join its ensembles, with open enrollment continuing through September. From rehearsal to performance, KPAC musicians strive for the highest standards of musical excellence, rehearsal etiquette, and dedication. All vocalists and instrumentalists must be able to read music and demonstrate proficiency in the technical aspects of performance.

“We are excited to welcome both returning and new musicians to another fantastic season of music-making,” said John Neal, KPAC Wind Ensemble and Choir Director. For more information, please emailkpac.maine@ gmail.com or visit facebook.com/ KennebecPerformingArtsCompany or www.kennebecperformingartscompany.com.

EVENTS: Great Carrying Place Portage

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Portage Trail Hike Offered by The Arnold Expedition Historical Society

This year commemorates the 250th anniversary of Benedict Arnold’s march through the Maine wilderness in an attempt to capture Québec. To honor this daring journey, the Arnold Expedition Historical Society (AEHS) is offering three guided hikes along a section of the Arnold Trail to Québec, known as the “Great Carrying Place Portage Trail,” retracing the steps of Arnold’s 1,000-man army, on Saturday, August 16; Saturday, September 27; and Saturday, October 18, 2025. Arnold and Native Americans before him used the portage trail to travel between the Kennebec River and the Dead River, avoiding 18 miles of dangerous white water and several days of travel.

Each hike is limited to 20 participants on a first-come, first-served basis.

Registration ends August 13, 2025.

The hikes will cover about five miles of the Great Carrying Place Portage Trail – from the Kennebec River to Middle Carry Pond. Along the way, AEHS members will describe the Herculean effort by soldiers to move a hundred tons of supplies to the Dead River. Once at Middle Carry Pond, an AEHS member will lead a discussion on the challenges ahead for the expeditionary force. A replica of a bateau used by the expedition will also be displayed. A shuttle will be available to take participants back to their vehicles.

For more details and the reservation form, please visit the Arnold Expedition Historical Society Facebook page AEHS1775.

Questions about the hike can be directed to Norm Kalloch at pondstream@yahoo.com.

EVENTS: Do you know a Nelson?

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The family of Erastus and Eliza Nelson, circa 1814.

You might be a Nelson if your last name is: Crommett, Bailey, Curtis, Glidden, Dowe, Tobey, Doughty, or Turner. Come see at the 100th Nelson Reunion of Erastus and Eliza Nelson descendents to be held Saturday, August 9, at the Palermo Christian Church.

Ninty-nine years ago, the second Nelson Family Reunion was hosted by Erastus and Eliza’s eighth child Warren Benjamin Nelson and his wife, Clara E (Haskell) Worthing, (the daughter of Hartwell and Louise Haskell of China, Maine). Warren and Clara owned a farm on Western Ridge Road in Palermo, and for the reunion set up tables in the apple orchard. Warren and Clara did not have any children, but enjoyed their nieces and nephews.

Warren’s brother, Oville, the third child of Erastus and Eliza was born in Palermo and married Lilla Genevieve Clark (the daughter of Henry and Elizabeth (Moody) Clark of Vassalboro. They lived on Elizabeth’s father’s farm in Vassalboro, while taking care of her parents. Oville received the Andrew Carnegie medal for personal bravery in rescuing a neighbor from a well. They had four children; Lizzie Alma Nelson, Susie Carlotta, Marion Genevieve, and Henry Clark.

Oville’s daughter, Susie Carlotta married Jasper Crommett, the son of Hollis and Lisa (Slater) Crommett of Weeks Mills, Maine in 1910. They made their home in China, Maine and had three children; Hazel Carlotta Crommett, John Henry, and Dennis Monroe.

After their children were grown there was divorce in 1940. Susie later married George Fuller and they lived on a farm in Weeks Mills. After Mr. Fuller died Susie spend much of her time with her daughter Hazel.

Hazel Carlotta Crommett was born in 1911 and married Irving Bailey in 1930, and had thirteen children. They lived on a farm in China, Maine. In 1957, after her husband’s death, she brought her entire family to the Nelson reunion.

Her children are Arland, Barbara Ruth, Pauline Marilyn, Phillip, Madeline, Paul, Beverley Hazel, Glendon, Joseph Carroll, Carolyn Joan, Nancy Sue, Norman Lawrence, James and Diana Marie.

Many of Hazel’s grandchildren are still in the Maine area. Do you know them? Here is the list with their birth names:

Arland’s children: Roxanne Bailey, Tanya, Pamela Bailey, Lori, Jeffrey, and Bonnie.

Barbara’s children: April Lee Curtis, Charlene Hazel, Parker, Lisa, and Annette.

Pauline’s children: Valerie Ann Glidden, Beth Elaine, Cynthia Lynn, and Scott Atwood.

Madeline’s children: Robert C. Dowe II, Julie, Kelley, Glenn Paul and Donald E.

Paul’s children: Peter Bailey, Tina, Betti and Chadwick.

Beverly Hazel’s son Corey Tobey.

Joseph Carroll’s son Joseph Carroll Bailey Jr.

Carolyn Joan’s children: Richard Turner, JR, Rodney, and Steven.

Nancy Sue’s children: Matthew Tyson Doughty, and Sarah Elizabeth.

Norman’s son Scott Bailey.

James’s children: Jason and Joel Bailey.

Diana Marie’s children: Jessica Rose Turner, and Ken Paul.

EVENTS: Gravel road maintenance workshop slated

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Gravel roads are essential for seasonal and year-round access to homes, camps, and natural areas across Maine. If not properly maintained, they can lead to challenges for landowners – they can also contribute to erosion and water quality problems. Join them for a hands-on workshop focused on how to evaluate and maintain gravel roads with water quality and long-term performance in mind.

A gravel road maintenance workshop will be held on Tuesday, August 26, from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m., at the Unity Community Center, 32 School St. Admission is free and a bag lunch is suggested. The workshop is presented by Peter Coughlan, director of Maine DOT’s Community Services Division, and Josh Platt, president and founder, Maine Environmental Solutions LLC.

This free training is ideal for landowners, contractors, town officials, watershed groups, and anyone else interested in improving road resilience and protecting nearby lakes and streams.

EVENTS: Baked beans and blueberries public supper planned at VUMC

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Cindy Shorey, left, and Dale Potter-Clark, of Vassalboro, will be among the servers at the Vassalboro Methodist Church Baked Beans & Blueberries public supper. (contributed photo)

Vassalboro Methodist Church is holding a “Baked Beans & Blueberries” public supper on Saturday, August 16, 4:30 – 6 p.m. The menu will include their traditional baked beans and a variety of other kinds. Hot dogs, casseroles, salads, breads, pies and blueberry desserts will also be available. The supper is open to the public for a $10.00 donation per person.

VUMC holds public suppers the third Saturday of every month March through October. The menu varies from month to month but the people’s favorite baked beans and an array of pies is always included. These old-fashioned public suppers are meant to bring folks of all ages together for an affordable, healthy meal while enjoying socialization with new and old friends. A door prize drawing will be for two free tickets to the September 20th supper.

FMI contact Pastor Karen Merrill at (207) 873-5544 or info.vumc@gmail.com Follow these and future special events and public meals on the Vassalboro United Methodist Church Facebook page.

EVENTS: China Select Board to hold public hearing

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China Town OfficeThe China select board will hold a public hearing on Monday, Aug. 11, at 6 p.m., in the town office meeting room on Lakeview Drive. The subject is old Route 202 at the head of China Lake’s east basin (see the July 31 issue of “The Town Line,” p. 2).

The special town meeting on the same topic, previously announced for July 18, has been rescheduled for 6 p.m. Monday, July 25. It will be an open (not written-ballot) meeting, held in the town office meeting room.

Town attorney Amanda Meader has compiled a history of the events that created the need for voters’ action, starting with the construction, in 1810, of the road that became Route 202. Town Manager Rebecca Hapgood plans explanatory publicity before the July 25 meeting.

Regular select board meetings will follow the Aug. 11 public hearing and the Aug. 25 special town meeting.