LETTERS: Funding for climate change research is needed

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To the editor:

As a scientist, I am deeply alarmed by the news that NOAA was asked to supply a list of active climate-related grant funding. This request raises alarms about potential cuts to critical climate research and mitigation efforts. There is no meaningful scientific debate about the reality of climate change, and over 70 percent of adults believe climate change will harm future generations. In the wake of recent natural disasters, climate change risks are clear, and defunding these grants could have severe consequences for human health and well-being.

Climate-related research funded by federal agencies supports climate monitoring, weather forecasting, and cutting-edge science. This research highlights vulnerable resources where the need for intervention is highest and is critical to mounting an effective response to climate change and understanding the potential risks.

Here in Maine, we have recently seen an increase in sea level, leading to coastal flooding and other natural disasters. But other climate-change risks are more subtle. My own master’s research has highlighted how anthropogenic climate change is altering the fall color timing and intensity in the northeast, which could have substantial impacts on Maine’s late fall tourism. Without the data to drive informed policy and decision-making, we leave our coasts and communities vulnerable to climate, economic, and public health disasters, ultimately weakening our national security.

I urge policymakers, scientists, and the public to push for continued federal funding of climate research and, in doing so, reaffirm that scientific research is essential for safeguarding our communities from climate change.

Alexis Garretson
Hampden

LETTERS: Sadly, estranged from my daughter

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To the editor:

Regarding my daughter’s rebuttal letter to The Town Line, it should be noted that the only references to dollars was what I paid a man to share my driving back to Maine. I would remind her I allowed her to write her own checks from our joint account, in her own words, “I do really appreciate your helping me out!”

I saw a lawyer who said I did nothing wrong: 1) Telling senior citizens not to make the mistake I did. 2) no malice, I wrote the truth. 3) it was not meant for her eyes to see and why I wrote to The Town Line, 2,000 miles away from Florida. My lawyer asked me and I ask you editor, et al, how the heck did she get to even know about The Town Line, or access it? Oh well, I am now estranged from my daughter. Sad as it has to be.

Frank Slason
Augusta

LETTERS: Ending EV mandate shortsighted

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To the editor:

In response to President Trump’s inauguration speech on January 20, 2025, I found it profoundly concerning that the new president seems intent on reversing our country’s progress toward lasting energy solutions amid an energy crisis.

In his speech, President Trump pledged to end the electric vehicle mandate and increase crude oil drilling in the United States. This approach is extremely shortsighted. The more dependent we become on non-renewable energy sources, such as oil, the more at risk we are of quickening their depletion, leaving us vulnerable when we need energy the most.

Without the electric vehicle mandate, we’ll need oil to power cars, heat homes, generate electricity, and fuel planes. What happens when we run out? What do we do without gas-powered vehicles and generators and heating systems and electric systems when there’s no more oil left? This issue is vital in Maine, which is heavily reliant on heating oil in the winter.

Therefore, I urge members of Congress to incentivize energy efficiency and promote transitions to renewable energy options. I insist readers contact their local Senator or Representative and advocate for better incentives for energy transitions. I suggest readers research ways to make their homes more energy efficient, thereby reducing their individual reliance on heating oil.

Rashmi Mohan
Bar Harbor

COMMUNITY COMMENTARY: Open meeting vs. secret ballot

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by Sheldon Goodine
China resident

There’s a lot of talk around town about having a traditional town meeting with a moderator, with a required quorum in attendance to conduct business, or a day-long secret ballot meeting. Each has its pros and cons. Since I have been a resident of China for more than 60 years, during which the town has grown from less than 2,000 residents to more than 4,000, my perspective may or may not muddy the waters.

In those early years, town meetings were important social events where community business was conducted. Folks looked forward to getting together each spring at the end of a long winter. They could “catch up” with old friends as well as greet new neighbors. They discussed and decided warrant articles until lunch time, then recessed and enjoyed sharing a great lunch prepared by the ladies. After the meal, they completed the warrant articles to end the day. The meeting closed in peace and harmony, and everyone left happy.

At this time, town business was managed by a select board, which met at the home of town clerk Mary Washburn. As the town grew, the brick portion of the town office was built and the select board increased from three to five members. Soon thereafter, a town manager was hired, and the annual town meeting gradually became less important. Fewer voters turned out to conduct the community’s business, and many became upset that only a few people were making the decisions. even though these same people didn’t take the time to participate.

Although I was not in agreement to legislating participation, an article was approved that required 10 percent of town voters (quorum) to be in attendance to both open and conduct the annual meeting. For many years the town met in the multi-purpose room at the China Middle School. When the current RSU (Regional School Union) was created this venue was no longer used since many felt that it was too much of a disruption for the children.

As a result the current secret ballot form of conducting town business was instituted, resulting in many more residents voting on both the warrant articles and the election of town officers. I have been a regular annual participant in each of these legislative methods. During much of this time, it was difficult to stay informed of the ever increasing number of expense of managing town affairs. Fortunately, with new technology this information is now available to all in a variety of ways. Select board meetings are televised, with an opportunity for the public to participate. These are also recorded for anyone to access after the fact. The Town Line newspaper is printed and distributed weekly with excellent articles of each business meeting, prepared by Mary Grow, which are both accurate and comprehensive. The town manager has created a monthly newsletter with other details of town activities.

My question is how many voters are in favor of each of these most recent forms of conducting town business:

a) Return to the in-person annual town meeting, requiring a minimum number of voters in attendance and, possibly, the construction of a building large enough to accommodate the growing number of participants; or
b) Continue with the current system of voting by secret ballot during the day at the town office.

I hope this is useful and, at the very least, encourage more discussion on this topic and a form of government that will best meet the needs of our ever growing and changing community.

With my thanks to all.

CRITTER CHATTER: More of Carleen Cote’s past articles

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by Jayne Winters

I continue to share more of Carleen Cote’s past articles because Duck Pond Wildlife Care Center isn’t accepting any wildlife or phone inquiries right now. I found several about the generous efforts of local students to help support the rehab center.

From August 2005:

“For two years, China Primary School students have selected the Wildlife Care Center as the recipient organization to benefit from their community service requirements. Lisa Jones called to tell me that the students were very enthusiastically looking forward to collecting supplies for the wildlife. What could we use? My suggestions included dry and canned dog food, dog biscuits, towels, whole corn for deer, shavings. In June, the students and chaperones arrived to deliver their bounty – dog food, cat food, biscuits, whole corn, towels and shavings. All that we could hope for. How proud these youngsters were, to know that they were contributing to the care of Maine’s wildlife. Thank you, students, for thinking about the wildlife at our center. Your generosity is truly appreciated.”

However, China Primary School students’ generosity didn’t end there: “In November, Lisa Jones called to tell me that third grade students would hold a bake sale on December 5, with the proceeds benefitting the wildlife at our center. I attended the bake sale to meet and thank the students for remembering the wildlife. This is the first time students have held a bake sale to benefit the Wildlife Care Center; Mrs. Vivarelli’s third grade class raised $100. Thanks also to moms, dads and the student cooks for preparing all the goodies. Thanks to all who purchased these goodies.”

Student fundraising efforts haven’t been limited to Windsor and China:

“In December [2005], I was contacted by Lynn Durost, Vassalboro Community School, and she told me her fifth-grade students had a donation for the Wildlife Care Center. She would like for me to come to the school to answer questions the students had about the work we do with the wildlife and to accept their donation.

On December 22, I visited with the students. Mrs. Durost read a letter the students had written to the principal asking if they could make a donation to our Center rather than exchange Christmas gifts. Mrs. Durost explained that any fundraiser money is usually donated to a fund to replace playground equipment. The principal granted permission and also said the school would match any money raised. The students asked many interesting questions and graciously invited me to stay and partake of their Christmas goodies – desserts and punch.

Thank you to these fifth grade students for generously foregoing their gifts to make a gift to the wildlife, and to the school for matching their gift. A donation of $62 was received.”

I hope you find these thoughtful, kind and generous acts of giving as inspiring as I do. Teaching younger generations to care about animal welfare, whether domestic or wildlife, is vital to developing and maintaining a compassionate community. In my humble opinion, something we all could use more of.

Wildlife rehab facilities are typically non-profits that primarily depend on personal resources and outside donations. For any students who would like to help fundraise for such an important cause, please be advised that Duck Pond has been working with Wilderness Miracles Rehab, in Bowdoin (Kathi at 207-720-0074), Misfits Rehab, in Auburn (Jen at 207-212-1039), Bridget Green, in Wiscasset (207-631-0874), Critterville Wildlife, in Brooklin (845-549-2407), and Saco River Wildlife (207-702-1405). Pam Meier at Mid-coast Maine is a turtle rehabber and can be reached at The Turtle’s Back (203-903-2708). Please check these websites for a rehabber close to you: https://www.mainevetmed.org/wildlife-rehabilitation or https://www.maine.gov/ifw/fish-wildlife/wildlife/living-with-wildlife/orphaned-injured-wildlife/index.html. In addition, you can contact your local Animal Control Officer through your town office. PHONE MESSAGES & EMAILS ARE NOT BEING MONITORED AT THIS TIME.

SCORES & OUTDOORS: The elusive pileated woodpecker

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Roland D. Halleeby Roland D. Hallee

You must remember the cartoon character of a bird with an innate chutzpah and brash demeanor that would fly into our living rooms during cartoon Saturdays in the 1950s and 1960s. He possessed a fluffy red crest and a laugh that bordered on insanity. He was Woody Woodpecker, the 1940 creation of Walter Lantz at Universial Studios, whose character and design would evolve over the years from an insane bird with an unusually garish design to a more refined looking and acting character in the vein of Bugs Bunny.

Why am I bringing this up? Recently, a local resident sent a photo along to us about seeing one by Sheepscot Lake. While they are not a rare bird, they can be quite shy and wary. I have seen a few of them at camp, but usually from relatively long distances. I even had one sitting on an old apple tree stump in my backyard at home, in Waterville, a few years back.

Pileated woodpeckers are a very large North American woodpecker, almost crow sized, inhabiting deciduous forests in eastern North America, the Great Lakes region, the boreal forests of Canada, and into parts of the Pacific Northwest. They are considered the largest North American woodpecker, although the Ivory-billed Woodpecker is larger; its numbers are such that it is considered near or at extinction, although one has been sighted in Maine in recent years.

When Europeans first arrived in North America, they found a land blanketed with mature woods that were the favorite haunts of pileated woodpeckers. During the 18th and 19th centuries, much of this great forest was cut, and the pileateds became rare over much of their range. Changes in lumbering practices and the abandonment of many eastern farms have allowed much of the forest to regenerate. They still need large tracts of woodlands, but they have adapted well to younger trees.

They measure 16-19 inches in length with a red crest and black bill. You’ll find these birds in mature forests with large trees. The territory of these birds can range from 150 – 200 acres. Signs of their presence can be detected by looking for 3 x 6 inch holes in trees. Using suet feeders can bring them close up, at times.

The call is a wild laugh, similar to the Northern Flicker. Its drumming can be very loud, often sounding like someone striking a tree with a hammer. The bird favors mature forests, but has adapted to use second-growth stands and heavily wooded parks as well.

Since these birds eat carpenter ants and wood-boring beetle larvae that tunnel deep into the wood, the birds will excavate a long gash, roughly rectangular, in a tree to retrieve ants.

Pileated woodpeckers raise their young every year in a hole in a tree. In April, the hole made by the male attracts a female for mating and raising their young. Once the brood is raised the woodpeckers abandon the hole and will not use it the next year.

The females will lay three to five white eggs which are incubated for 15-16 days by both the male and female birds. Both male and female will also feed the nestlings. The young woodpeckers will fledge the nest in 24-28 days. The adults and the young will stay together until fall. During this time, the adult birds will continue to feed them and teach them how to find their own food. Around September, the family will break up and the young will find territories of their own.

Pileated woodpeckers have been observed to move eggs that have fallen out of the nest to another site, a rare habit in birds.

Common predators of the pileated woodpecker are Black snakes, Coopers Hawks, Northern Goshawks, Red-tailed Hawks, Great Horned owls and squirrels.

So, pay attention, listen for a low-pitched drumming that trails off in speed and volume at the end. Follow the sound, and you just may find one.

Roland’s trivia question of the week:

How many MLB teams have retired Nolan Ryan’s number?

Answer
Three. California (Los Angeles) Angels, Houston Astros and Texas Rangers.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, February 27, 2025

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JANET M. SYLVESTER

WINSLOW – Janet Mayo Sylvester, 91, of Winslow, passed away on Monday, February 10, 2025. Born at home in Wilton, on December 25, 1933, she was the daughter of Oscar and Evelyn (Buzzell) Mayo.

Janet graduated from Wilton Academy in 1952 and went on to attend the University of Maine, where she reconnected with her childhood friend, Harrison Sylvester. Janet and Harry married in 1953 and shared nearly 55 years of love and partnership until his passing in 2008. Together, they lived in Maine and Massachusetts, raising their three children, Michael, Richard, and Deborah. Janet later returned to school, earning a degree from Worcester State Teachers College in 1967. She then taught elementary school in Westborough, Massachusetts, marking the beginning of her lifelong dedication to education. Janet and her family returned to Maine for good in 1973, settling in Albion, where she was a member of a bowling league and active in the Lions for many years.

Janet was an avid reader, known for her sharp humor and an unwavering sense of fairness. Her home was always open to family and friends. Every summer, Janet and Harry joyfully hosted their four grandchildren at their home in Albion or their camp in Eustis, playing a central role in their lives. Her love of sweets, especially ice cream, was a well-known “secret” among family and friends, and she was lucky to enjoy regular ice cream outings in her later years.

When Harry was diagnosed with learning disabilities in the late 1980s, Janet took it upon herself to become an expert in the field and a passionate advocate for children and adults with learning differences. She regularly fielded calls from parents seeking advice and supported families across Maine and the country. Janet served as the executive director of the Learning Disabilities Association of Maine for many years, making a lasting impact on countless lives.

Janet was preceded in death by her husband, Harrison Sylvester, and her son, Michael Sylvester.

She is survived by her children, Richard Sylvester and wife Carol, Deborah Noyes and husband Charles; her grandchildren Ryan Sylvester, Erin Cliche (Jason), Erica Bosse (Jordon), and Noah Bradstreet (Lucie Strokoszova); and two great-grandchildren, Graham and Ivy Cliche.

A celebration of Janet’s life will be held at a later date in Eustis.

Condolences may be expressed at http://www.directcremationofmaine.com/tribute.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Harrison C. Sylvester ’55 Family Scholarship at the University of Maine in Janet’s memory.

JAMES A. DAVIS JR.

CLINTON – James A. Davis, Jr., 83, of Clinton, died Monday, February 10, 2025, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, following a brief illness. Born in Waterville, to the late James A. Davis, Sr. and Fatina S. (Duty).

James leaves behind his wife and best friend, Louise (Menard) Davis, of Clinton. For the past eight years, they enjoyed many relaxing drives, exploring the lakes and coastlines of Maine, a state he loved deeply and wanted to share with Louise. He leaves behind a wealth of stories and adventures shared with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

He is survived by four daughters, Christina (Dave Joder), of Colorado, Penni (Rick Wetzbarger), of Colorado, Jamie (Benjamin Cevelo), of Massachusetts, and Jodi (Davis) Perreault, of New Hampshire; five grandchildren, Meghan, Emily, Sarah, Lucy, and Kim; six great-grandchildren; sister, Cheryl Walker, of Benton; his brother Ronald Davis (wife Linda), of El Paso, Texas. He also had three stepchildren, Deborah Reardon, Suzanne Leps, and Brandon Harris.

He was predeceased by his sister, Debra Davis, who passed away in November 2024; his first wife, Barbara (Ridley) Davis, the mother of their four children; and his second wife, Georgine Y. Davis.

A Mass will be held in honor of James, with a memorial service planned for the spring when family and friends can gather to celebrate his life.

Arrangements are in the care of Veilleux-Redington-Lawry Brothers, 8 Elm Street, Waterville, where memories of James may be shared, and an online register book can be signed by visiting http://www.vrlfuneralhome.com.

ANNA L. RICHARDSON

MADISON – Anna Louise Richardson, 86, peacefully passed away on Wednesday, February 12, 2025. She was the wife for 62 years to Ernest Richardson. She was born in Bingham, on August 18, 1938.

She had been at Maplecrest nursing home in Madison for the last three years.

Family and friends will be invited to a graveside celebration of life in the spring or summer in Solon.

She leaves behind daughter, Tammy and husband John Collins; son, Danny and wife Melonie Ayer; grandsons, Brandon Gove, Mathew and wife Tara Newick; granddaughters, Kristina Ayer, and Katrina Ayer; great-grandchildren, Madison, Summer, Kylan Newick, and Jeremy and Ryley Lyons; a sister, Frances Owens Ong and husband Willy Ong, of Orlando, Florida.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Giberson Funeral Home and Cremation Services. To leave a condolence for the family and to view the online obituary, please visit http://www.gibersonfuneralhome.com

THERESA P. MATHIEU

WATERVILLE – Theresa Pauline Mathieu, (Tee), 56, passed away at home unexpectedly on Saturday, February 15, 2025.

Theresa’s journey paved a path for many to follow. She graduated from Messalonskee High School, in Oakland, class of 1988. She enjoyed and participated in the programs at Skills and Goodwill.

Although Theresa’s journey was different, she was greatly loved and will be deeply missed. Theresa loved her family, care takers and friends. She enjoyed drinking coffee, watching 3 Stooges and cleaning.

Theresa is survived by her mother, Pauline Mathieu; brother Richard Mathieu and his wife Susan, and Robert Mathieu and his wife Laura; nieces and nephews Sarah Michaud (Ryan), Michael Mathieu (Mindy), Rebecca Mathieu, Ashley Mathieu, Alyssa Mathieu, Cooper Loiko, and Brody Loiko; and great-niece and -nephews Conner, Cameron, and Olivia.

She was predeceased by her father Raymond Mathieu and her niece Katie Marie Mathieu.

A full Catholic funeral Mass was held at Notre Dame Catholic Church, 112 Silver Street, Waterville, on Friday February 21, 2025.

Arrangements are in the care of Veilleux-Redington-Lawry Brothers, 8 Elm Street, Waterville, where memories of Theresa may be shared, and an online register book can be signed by visiting http://www.vrlfuneralhome.com.

In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to Skills, Inc., 461 Hartland Road, St. Albans, ME 04971 to support individuals with similar special needs.

ROGER E. ROUTHIER

WATERVILLE – Roger E. Routhier, 82, passed away on Sunday, February 16, 2025, at home. He was born on November 1, 1942, in Waterville, to Harvey and Irene (Poulin) Routhier.

He attended Waterville High School, where he excelled in hockey and having fun. After graduating high school in 1961, he enlisted in the U.S. Army for three years and served in various locations, including time spent overseas in Korea. Upon his return, he began his 28-year career with the Keyes Fibre Company.

In 1968, he married Jane Ann Gagne. He loved his family above all else and was happiest when he was surrounded by his children, grandchildren, cousins, and the many friends he made throughout his life. Roger had a way of making everyone feel welcome and nobody was a stranger for long. After his career at Keyes, he dedicated his time working at the Bean School, in Oakland, and at the home daycare he helped Jane run for 35 years. He was a longtime volunteer with the Sidney Fire Department and at the Waterville Soup Kitchen.

He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Jane; his children Tina (Tricia), Arthur (Corrine) and Tammy; his grandchildren Alexander, Catherine, Jack, Olivia, Alden, and Grace; his sister Jeannine, to whom he was very close.

He was pre-deceased by his father and mother, as well as his older brother Yvon.

Arrangements are under the direction of Veilleux Redington Lawry Funeral Home with visitation on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, from 4-8 pm.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held at Notre Dame Church, in Waterville, on Wednesday, February 26, 2025. Burial will be at St. Francis Cemetery, on Grove St., in Waterville, in the spring.

In lieu of flowers please consider donating to a cause of your choosing in Roger’s name.

GREGORY G. RACKLIFF

OAKLAND – Gregory Gene Rackliff, 75, passed away on Sunday, February 16, 2025, following a sudden and brief battle with cancer. He was born February 14, 1950, in Farmington, where he also attended school. He was one of 11 children. His first marriage was to Crystal Trafton, sharing three children. He later married Lorelei Hall.

His family will always cherish the great memories such as camping, riding on the old army truck, the late nights smelting, riding our horse, Domingo, and all the small calves we raised. We had many adventures including building snow sculptures, sliding and ending our days with fudge and popcorn.

Later in life, he enjoyed watching NASCAR races and other sports along with exploring a good antique store. He was an active member of the Winslow Baptist Church and always encouraged his children to help others, as he did.

He worked several years at Dexter Shoe, drove both a milk and bread truck, managed Payless Shoes, in Augusta, and spent several years at Hammond Lumber Co.

He is survived by his wife Lorelei; mother-in-law Elizabeth Susi; children, Lori Drodge and husband Doug, of Pownal, Chad Rackliff and wife Janice, of Harmony, Lisa Rackliff Rice and husband James, of Harmony, Brad Bussell and wife Brandy, of Harmony; grandchildren, Elizabeth Rackliff and significant other Nick Champney, of Skowhegan, Chayse Cushing and wife Carolin of Fairfield, Jessie Cushin of Texas, Bree Fitzgerald and husband Spence of Harmony, Brody Bussell and significant other Simon Liszk of Winslow, Maverick Rice and significant other Kory Bouthillier, of Corinna, Montana Rice, of Harmony, and Nathaniel Rackliff, of Harmony; great-grandchildren, Charlie and Irene Cushing and Natalie Liszka; step-children, Rebecca Hall, of Virginia, Sarah Pickell and husband Travis of Sidney and Katie Hall, of Winslow; grandchildren, Sofia Adractas, of Virginia, Loukas Adractas, of Virginia, Anthony Pickell, of Sidney, Kayla and Sam Saunders and children, of Florida and Ben Thomas, of Winslow; siblings, Stanley and wife Lisa, of Wilton, Raynold and wife Elnora of Wilton, Nelson and wife Mary, of Chesterville, and Peggy, of Lewiston; and many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his father Leon Rackliff and wife Ida, mother Bertha Cox (Bachelder) and husband Frank; brothers: Dennis, Buddy, Dale, and Neil, sisters, Beverly Trafton and Nancy Knight.

A memorial service will be held at 1:30 p.m., Saturday, March 1, 2025, at the Winslow Baptist Church, 1040 Augusta Road, Winslow, with Pastor Larry Lakey officiating. A gathering with light refreshments will be held in the fellowship hall following the service. All are welcome.

To leave a message of kindness or to share a memory, please visit http://www.shoreynichols.com.

Care has been provided by Shorey-Nichols Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Pittsfield.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be given to Teen Challenge, 11 Hudson Lane, Winthrop, ME, 04364.

NORMA N. O’NEAL

LIBERTY – Norma “Nancy” O’Neal, 72, passed away peacefully at home on Monday, February 17, 2025. Nancy was born on January 9, 1953, in Hartford, Connecticut, to Elsie Stanley and Frederick O’Neal.

Nancy had a profound love for animals, welcoming any creature in need into her home. There wasn’t an animal that didn’t love her in return. Over the years, she cared for many pets, but her heart was especially drawn to rottweilers. Her favorites – Wazoo, Mya, and Dillon Dog – were not just pets but true companions, each a big baby in her eyes. Her love extended to her feline friends as well, with Monkey-Do, Moxie, and Newton holding a special place in her heart. However, her dearest companion was her beloved cat, Pony, who was always by her side.

Throughout her life, Nancy worked in various roles, bringing dedication and compassion to everything she did. She spent years at Sam’s Club before finding her true calling as a caregiver. As a Certified Nursing Assistant, she provided comfort and care to countless individuals. Her most fulfilling work was at Hayden House, where she ensured special needs adults received the dignity and care they deserved. She also worked at Riverview Psychiatric Hospital, where she treated every patient with understanding, free of fear or prejudice.

A lover of classic films, Nancy enjoyed watching her vast collection of VHS and DVD movies. Her all-time favorite, Gladiator, was watched countless times but she also had a love of horror stories (especially Stephen King) and Johnny Depp films.

Nancy loved going up to the family camp on Moosehead Lake, where she found peace in nature. She also enjoyed catching up with loved ones including her hours-long chats with her daughter, her niece Chasity and her brother Joe.

Nancy was a truly special person – unique, loving, and unafraid to be herself. She gave endlessly to those around her, both human and animal, and the world is a little less bright without her. She will be missed dearly and forever remembered by those who had the privilege of knowing and loving her.

She is survived by her husband, Brian Smith, and her three children, Nichole, Fred, and Frank O’Neal; grandchildren; brother, Joseph Paul, his wife, Patty; nieces, nephews, and grandnieces and grandnephews.

JOHN E. MILLER

WINDSOR—John E. Miller, 88, passed away Thursday, February 20, 2025, at MaineGeneral Rehabilitation and Long Term Care at Glenridge. He was born October 19, 1936, a son of Jesse Miller Sr. and Ella (Marquis) Gardiner.

John worked for many years at Sheridan Construction.

He is survived by his wife, Norma (Hallowell) Miller; his son, Jared Miller and his wife Bethany; and grandchildren, Nathan and Lauren Miller.

A period of visitation will be held on Saturday, March 1 2025, from 1 to 2 p.m., at Plummer Funeral Home, 983 Ridge Rd., Windsor, ME 04363, where a brief service will begin at 2 p.m. Burial will take place in the spring at Rest Haven Cemetery. Condolences, stories and photos may be shared by visiting www.plummerfh.com.

Others Departed

ANN NILES

WHITEFIELD – Ann Niles, 81, of Whitefield, passed away on Sunday, January 12, 2025.

A gathering to celebrate Ann’s life will be held at the Kings Mills Union Hall where she spent so much time. The gathering will be on Saturday, April 12, from 2 to 4 p.m.

Ann’s full obituary may be viewed, and condolences may be expressed online at http://www.hobbsfuneralhome.com

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to either Kings Mills Union Hall Association, P.O. Box 49, Whitefield, ME 04353, or Whitefield Historical Society, P.O. Box 176, Whitefield, ME 04353

SHEILA K. HENDERSON

BRISTOL, Vermont – Sheila Kelly Henderson, 81, passed peacefully at her home in Bristol, Vermont on Wednesday, February 12, 2025. She had lived with Parkinsons since 2019.

She was born in Madison on March 22, 1943, to Stephen and Pearl (Reed) Kelly. She met her husband, David, at Madison High School and they graduated in 1961. She graduated from Maine Medical Nursing School, in Portland, in 1964. They married that same year and celebrated 60 years of marriage on June 6, 2024.

Sheila worked as an RN in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, to support David through medical school. Their journey together brought them from Philadelphia, to Burlington, Vermont, to North Dakota, and ultimately back to Vermont, moving to Bristol, Vermont, in 1975, to raise their family and set up their medical practice from which they both retired in 2009. In retirement, she enjoyed traveling, camping, and most of all, her grandchildren.

Sheila was a caregiver at her very core. This was evident in her profession as a nurse, as a volunteer EMT on the Bristol Rescue Squad.

She was predeceased by her parents; her brothers Donald Kelly, Alva Reed and his wife Shirley, her sister, Joyce Estes, brothers-in-law, Leo Estes, Dennis Barron, Richard Saucier; and David’s parents, Harold and Lucille Henderson.

She is survived by her husband, David Henderson, of Bristol, Vermont; and her three children, Erin Henderson (Bryan Serinese) of Williston, Vermont, Keely Henderson (Matt Germon), of Lincoln, Vermont, and Tim Henderson (Jenny Endris Henderson), of Felt, Idaho; her six grandchildren, Hugo, Gus, and Maeve Serinese, Charlie and Noah Germon, and Henry Henderson; her two sisters, Carolee Barron and Gail Saucier, of Madison; and her in-laws Jan Kelly and Tim and Linda Henderson; as well as many nieces and nephews.

A celebration of Sheila’s life is planned for this summer.

JOSEPH R. ROY

KENNEBUNK – Joseph R. Roy, 99, of Kennebunk, formerly of Winslow, passed away peacefully, on Thursday, February 13, 2025, following a courageous battle with heart disease. Joe or (Chubby as known to many) was born on January 25, 1926, in Waterville, the son of the late Paul and Mary Roy.

His 76 years of marriage to Shirley H. Roy formed an everlasting bond that was often celebrated with family and friends throughout their years together. Likewise, celebrating their 99th birthdays in January was an amazing recognition of their lives together and reminder of how fortunate their extended family has been.

Joe attended Winslow High School, graduating in 1944. He entered the Armed Services in 1944 and was a decorated Staff Sergeant in World War II, having served in the 11th Armored Division, 3rd Army under General Patton until his honorable discharge in 1946.

After WWII Joe attended Coburn Classical Institute, in Waterville, and the New England Technical Institute, in Providence, Rhode Island. Joe became an accomplished radio station engineer servicing Lewiston and Augusta radio stations as well as Maine based airport beacons.

He began his career at Twin City Communications (WCOU), in Lewiston, and next at Capitol Communications WFAU/WKCG, in Augusta, where he served the greater Augusta community with technical support in many sporting and public service events to include historic boxing matches, concerts at the Augusta Civic Center and high school sporting contests until his retirement in 1991.

Throughout his life and particularly after his retirement, Joe loved enjoying the outdoors, especially Moosehead Lake, where he and his brothers Harold and Bob had a fishing camp on Lily Bay and enjoyed each others’ camaraderie and antics for many years.

Joseph is survived by his wife Shirley H. Roy, of Kennebunk; son Michael (Mick) Roy (Lauren), of North Yarmouth; daughters Patti Butler, of Naples, Florida, Cindi Cooper (Bill), of Venice, Florida, and Donna Dierkes (Lee), of Wells.

He was preceded in death by parents Paul Roy and Mary Roy, of Winslow, brothers Harold, Bob, Norman, Kenneth, and sisters Geraldine, and Lorraine; grandchildren Jami Bartlett-Rosario (Jose), Kristi Bartlett (Alex Hernandez), Lyndsay Winger (Justin), Brianna Deroche (Christopher), Kayla Roy (Tai Burgess), Julia Maturo (Joey), Greg Cooper (Jenn), Tim Cooper (Katelyn), Alayna Kelly (Sean), and Elyse Dierkes; great-grandchildren include Camdyn Rosario, Cassidy Rosario, Logan Dostie, Connor Deroche, Caroline Deroche, Jackson Burgess, Layla Maturo, Avery Cooper, Sadie Cooper, Bryce Cooper, Mason Cooper, Mylie Cooper, Skylar Cooper, Rosie Kelly.

A future celebration will be planned for the summer of 2025. His ashes will be placed at the Maine Veterans Cemetery, in Augusta, in the Spring/Summer of 2025.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Amanda Worth, Office Manager, Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery System, 143 Blue Star Avenue, Augusta, Maine 04330, or donate to the charity or foundation of your choice.

No child should be priced out of playing sports

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by Hanna Skandera

Participating in youth sports has long been a cornerstone of the American experience — or at least it used to be. Fewer American kids are playing sports, and shifting trends are leaving countless kids on the sidelines.

The importance of reversing this trend cannot be overstated. Youth sports are not just games; they are a critical component of childhood development. Simply put, the well-being of our nation hinges, in part, on our investments in youth sports today.

The cost of participating in sports has become increasingly prohibitive. The rise of digital entertainment has captivated kids’ attention, drawing them away from physical activities. These declining participation rates threaten young Americans’ mental and physical health. Anxiety and depression in kids, which can be alleviated by exercise, are on the rise.

Youth sports are becoming steadily more privatized: Today, “pay-to-play” youth sports is a $30-to $40 billion dollar industry. American families spend an average of almost $900 annually per child to participate in organized sports.

The growing socio-economic gap in sports participation is glaring. Today, while more than two in three kids from wealthier families are playing sports, only about one in three from the poorest families get the same opportunity.

Sports teach teamwork, discipline, perseverance, and resilience – traits that are essential both on and off the field. For many kids from challenging family situations, sports offer a sense of belonging and purpose and put them on the path to a more stable future.

Participation in sports has been linked to better academic performance, higher self-esteem, and a greater likelihood of college attendance. In fact, studies show that 66% of students who earn all A’s play organized sports compared to just 24% of students with mostly D’s and F’s.

Kids who play sports have higher lifetime earnings. They have vastly lower rates of depression, obesity, and other serious health conditions. The benefits are so stark that Americans would be a collective $57 billion richer each year, thanks to reduced healthcare spending and increased productivity, if the youth sports participation rate increased by just about ten percentage points, according to one recent study.

Investing in youth sports is a matter of public health — and national pride. The athletes who will represent us in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics and the 2034 Salt Lake City Olympics are today’s young hopefuls in recreational leagues and school teams.

Without a robust pipeline of young talent, not only will our health suffer – but our ability to compete at the highest levels will be compromised.

Nonprofit organizations have a unique opportunity to cultivate that pipeline. My organization, the Daniels Fund, recently teamed up with the Aspen Institute to launch the first-ever Colorado Youth Sports Giving Day. With over $3.7 million raised through overwhelming support from philanthropists and community members, this campaign demonstrates the deep belief in the importance of making sports accessible to all children.

As a society, we’ll need to make big investments to ensure that every child has a chance to experience the benefits of sports. By doing so, we will build a healthier, more resilient generation of Americans.

Hanna Skandera is president and CEO of the Daniels Fund (danielsfund.org) and is a former track and field athlete and coach. This piece originally ran in Salon.

China select board, budget committee, town employees hold long meeting

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by Mary Grow

China select board members, joined by some budget committee members and several town employees, held a long four-part meeting Monday evening, Feb. 24.

They started at the public works garage on Alder Park Road, where Director of Public Works Shawn Reed introduced them to the large trucks, all wearing their plow gear this time of year, that live there.

Reed explained each vehicle’s advantages and disadvantages as he requested a replacement truck in the 2025-26 fiscal year.

The group then viewed a smaller truck in the old town garage in the town office complex before adjourning to the town office meeting room for the bulk of the select board meeting.

Reversing a split decision Feb. 10 (see the Feb. 13 issue of The Town Line, p. 3), select board members voted 4-1, with Blane Casey still opposed, to recommend buying a new plow truck next year, at a cost expected to be slightly under $300,000. Town Manager Rebecca Hapgood said about that amount is now in the truck reserve fund.

Reed recommends selling one of the old trucks after the new one arrives.

Select board members’ longest discussion was with Robert O’Connor and Jamie Pitney, of the China Broadband Committee, over the proposed agreement with Unitel for expanded broadband service in China (another topic discussed at the Feb. 10 meeting).

Unitel proposes a new main line running from its Albion office through China to Palermo, to connect with the five-town Waldo Broadband Corporation. A second phase of the project would expand service to parts of China currently underserved or unserved.
Board Chairman Wayne Chadwick repeated his refusal to approve a project that involves China investing money — $370,000 in TIF (Tax Increment Financing) funds – without a firm guarantee that un- and underserved China residents will be served within a reasonable time.

Pitney and O’Connor provided as much information as they could. Because some of the project funding depends on a federal grant, they, too, expressed uncertainty, about whether the grant program would exist and whether Unitel would be awarded one.

The grant is called BEAD, which stands for Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment Program. Select board members voted unanimously to sign a letter supporting Unitel’s grant application. They took no action on the draft agreement with Unitel.

In a series of unanimous votes, select board members:

— Approved rules, procedures and membership fees for the planned community garden on the Lakeview Drive lot south of the town office. The document is on the town website, chinamaine.org, under two headings: Officials, Boards, & Committees, subheading China for a Lifetime Committee; and Community, at the bottom of the list.
— Authorized the Community Forest Committee to apply for a grant from the Portland-based Libra Foundation, for $4,093, for locally made trail signs for the forest behind the China schools.
— Revised the town’s building permit fee schedule, reducing one fee and increasing two others to better reflect the codes officer’s time.
— Appointed Jane Robertson budget committee secretary.

The third part of the select board meeting was a preliminary review of part of Hapgood’s draft 2025-26 municipal budget. The manager briefly summarized proposed changes in the first five (of 12) accounts.

Highlights:

— Board members agreed unanimously the administration account will not include a suggested $11,000 to create the position of part-time recreation director. Hapgood said $10,500 was approved in the 2023-24 budget, but the town was unable to hire anyone for the position.
— By another unanimous vote, board members agreed the boards and committee budget will not include stipends for themselves.
— They deleted from the public safety account a proposed increase in the hours Kennebec County sheriff’s deputies serve the town, from eight to 10 a week. Chadwick commended the officers for their work, but considered coverage adequate.
— In the proposed solid waste budget, Hapgood said hauling costs have been reduced, because “The fabulous transfer station people make sure the loads going out are full” and therefore less numerous.
Board members favor starting a reserve fund to replace the transfer station scales, though they did not decide on an initial amount.

Preliminary consideration of the rest of the budget was postponed at 8:10 p.m., 10 minutes past Chadwick’s unofficial deadline. Board members considered holding a budget workshop later in the week, but were unable to find an evening everyone would be available. Extra budget meetings in March are likely.

The evening’s fourth and final meeting was a separate one, as select board members reconvened as the board of assessors. They unanimously accepted two recommendations from the town assessor on abatement requests, denying one and approving the other.

The next regular China select board meeting is scheduled for Monday evening, March 10.

Webber Pond dam main topic at select board meeting

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by Mary Grow

A main business item on the Feb. 20 Vassalboro select board agenda, a discussion of planned enlargement of the fishway at the Webber Pond dam, turned into a discussion of movement for people, not fish.

The 2009 fishway “has been so successful that it’s now undersized,” Maine Rivers Executive Director Landis Hudson summarized. Project Manager Matt Streeter explained a detailed plan to rebuild the fishway in the same place, but wider, deeper and longer.

(Hudson and Streeter are familiar with Vassalboro: Maine Rivers headed the 2017-2022 China Lake Alewife Restoration Initiative [ARI] that opened Vassalboro’s Outlet Stream to alewife migration from the Kennebec River to China Lake.)

The work needs to be done between July 15 and Sept. 30, by federal regulation of work done in the water, Streeter said. It will require big machinery, which will be left on site overnights and weekends.

To make room for parked machinery, the plan includes closing the entrance to Dam Road from Webber Pond Road. Streeter described the planned 3.5-mile detour for residents on the southwest side of Webber Pond via Hannaford Hill and McQuarrie roads.

Three audience members objected strongly. Not to the bigger fishway; they said that’s a good idea.

But more traffic on McQuarrie Road is a bad and dangerous idea, they said. The road is narrow; they were especially concerned about a steep pitch where it’s impossible to see oncoming traffic.

They asked Streeter about alternatives, like moving the machinery nights and weekends or installing a temporary bridge to provide a new entrance to Dam Road.

Fire Chief Walker Thompson said he checked McQuarrie Road recently and thought emergency access would not be a problem.

Area resident and former select board member Barbara Redmond and present board member Chris French wondered about the town’s right to close private roads without residents’ permission. Board Chairman Frederick “Rick” Denico, Jr., asked if Maine Rivers could prepare a supplemental plan showing roads and elevations.

Streeter and Thompson offered to meet with affected residents. Redmond said if a meeting is scheduled, she will help publicize it.

In addition to the fishway, Streeter said discussions with the Webber Pond Association led to planned new dam gates, electrically operated, that will be easier to manage and will allow greater control of the pond’s outflow.

In other business Feb. 20, select board members settled one issue and decided another is not urgent.

— After another brief discussion, they voted unanimously to accept transfer station fee increases that Manager Adam Daoust proposed in December 2024, to take effect July 1, 2025.
— Town Manager Aaron Miller said the Secretary of State’s office will not be able to evaluate the suitability of the town office for state voting until fall. The issue is whether the space can be arranged to meet ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) requirements.

Board members decided they can hold the June town meeting at Vassalboro Community School and June elections – which are local only ­– in the town office, as in past years, and worry about November’s voting place later.

The Feb. 20 select board agenda included the proposal to amend Vassalboro’s TIF (Tax Increment Financing) document to allow TIF money to help pay for replacing Dunlap bridge on Mill Hill Road.

Voters rejected a Nov. 5, 2024, referendum question asking them to add environmental improvement projects to authorized uses of TIF money, by a vote of 1,200 in favor to 1,338 opposed.

Select board members have been considering a revised question for this spring’s open town meeting. French proposed submitting the November 2024 question again, believing when board members have an opportunity to explain it, voters will approve it.

Miller said he would consult with the town’s attorney.

The next regular Vassalboro select board meeting is scheduled for 6:30 p.m., Thursday, March 6.