OBITUARIES for Thusday, January 23, 2025

MELINDA G. LEE

SOUTH CHINA—Melinda “Mindy” G. Lee, 70, passed away on Sunday, December 15, 2024. She was born on September 7, 1954, a daughter of Milton H. and Jane (Reed) Farrington.

Mindy grew up in South China and Augusta and was a graduate of Cony High School in the class of 1973. Following graduation, Mindy was married to Barry Lee and the two traveled all over the United States for Barry’s work. They settled in South China when Mindy became a mother to her two sons, Rex and James.

For over 30 years, Mindy was employed by the State of Maine. Mindy enjoyed spending time with her family, especially during the holiday season.

She was predeceased by her husband, Barry; her sister, Millie Thompson; her father, Milton Farrington; and her nephew, Mickey Thompson.

She is survived by her two sons, Rex Lee and James Lee, both of South China; four grandchildren: Madison Lee, Benjamin Lee, Hayden James Lee and Touareg Lee; great-grandchildren: Hera and Amunet; her mother, Jane Farrington; her sister, Polly Boynton and her husband Peter; brother-in-law Daniel Thompson, and many nieces and nephews.

In following Mindy’s wishes, no services are being held.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Plummer Funeral Home, 16 Pleasant St., Augusta, ME 04330. Condolences, stories and photos may be shared by visiting www.plummerfh.com.

BARBARA YOUNG

VASSALBORO – Barbara (Perry) Young, 81, passed away following a brief illness, on Sunday, December 22, 2024. She was born March 13, 1943, in Mexico, to Francis J. Perry and Mary Rosella (Desroches) Perry.

She grew up in Mexico and went to an all-girls high school and teachers’ college in Massachusetts where she became a nun for several years before deciding to become a nurse.

In Maine, she attended Central Maine Hospital School of Nursing and graduated from the University of Maine becoming a Registered Nurse.

She was employed by MaineGeneral Hospital Medical Center, Williams Nursing Homes and the Veterans Administration Hospital, at Togus, until retirement.

Barb enjoyed being with friends and family traveling to places like Arizona, Las Vegas, and Prince Edward Island, Canada. She also became a snowbird in Florida for a few years, eventually moving back to Maine.

Barb was predeceased by her parents.

She is survived by her husband Don; son Mike; brothers-in-law, James Young and his wife Millie, and David Young and his wife Denise; and several aunts, uncles, cousins and their families.

At Barb’s request there will be no service. Arrangements have been entrusted to Plummer Funeral Home, 16 Pleasant St., Augusta, ME 04330.

APRIL J. FLOOD

FAIRFIELD – April Joy Flood, 77, passed unexpectedly on Christmas Day, Wednesday, December 25, 2024. A full obituary can be viewed at Funeral arrangements done by Family First Veilleux-Redington-Lawry Brothers http://www.vrlfuneralhome.com

GERALD P. GRENIER

WATERVILLE – Gerald (Jerry) Paul Grenier, 84, passed away on Monday, December 30, 2024. Jerry was born on April 4, 1940, in Waterville to Prosper Grenier and Delores (Burgess) Grenier, the fourth oldest of 18 children.

He spent 54 years married to the love of his life, Loretta June (Wyman) Grenier. Jerry was the epitome of a family man and loved by all.

A polio survivor at age 2, Jerry was strong and resilient. He spent many childhood summers at Pine Tree Camp, in Rome, Maine. Jerry worked at C. F. Hathaway Shirt Company, in Waterville, for 35+ years until the late ‘90s.

In 2005, Jerry and Loretta became “snowbirds”, traveling seasonally between Wassamki Springs Campground, in Scarborough, where he was known as the “sheriff of the park”, patrolling around the beach in his golf cart, and Apache Junction, Arizona, where Jerry enjoyed hosting jam sessions, wearing the best cowboy hats affixed with handmade buckles, and playing shuffleboard. Many lasting friendships were formed during those 17 years.

Jerry had a way of telling vivid stories that often incorporated the number 52. He loved beating people at cribbage, and enjoyed painting and puzzles. Jerry was often surrounded by laughter, as he always had the best jokes and punchlines. His grandchildren will always remember going on walks with their Pepere (“Pep”), and sitting on his lap trying to figure out if the story he was telling was true or made up.

He is survived by his daughters, Tina LaPorte and Jon, Karen and wife Maria Grenier-Morrissette; grandchildren Jessica and Aaron Pelotte, Benjamin and Michaela LaPorte, Dayna LaPorte and Troy, Reeve Grenier-DiDonato, and Meya Grenier-DiDonato; great-grandchildren Alex, Lilly, Sophia and Audrey; brothers Roland, Daniel and Barbara, Ronald and Cindy, Dale and Diane, Mike and Willie, Donald, Kenny and Ricky; and sisters Shirley, Joann and Paul, Brenda and Jeff; as well as many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his wife Loretta; son Donnie; his parents; and siblings Carmen, Debbie, Sandra, Bernard, Robert and Reggie.

There will be a Celebration of Life on Sunday, April 13, at 1 p.m., at Pine Tree Camp Dining Hall in Rome, Maine.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Jerry’s memory to Pine Tree Camp (Link: Fundraising),114 Pine Tree Camp, Rome, ME 04943.

ALICE MAY TULIN

Alice May Tulin, 88, passed away peacefully, on Wednesday, January 1, 2025. Born with a sharp wit and an endless capacity for love, Alice lived a life full of purpose and devotion to her family. Raised in New Jersey, she married Robert, her partner of 70 years and her husband of 64 years. Together, they built a family rooted in love, caring, humor, and resilience. In retirement, they made their home in Palermo, where they cherished their life together.

Alice balanced her role as a mother to three daughters with her career as a Nurses Assistant in a nursing home and as a lunch aide in her local school district. Known for her famous one-liners and unbounded wit, she brought laughter and light into every room she entered. Her matriarchal love was a source of strength and comfort to all of her family, who will forever cherish her guidance, warmth and especially her hugs.

Alice is survived by her husband Robert; her daughters Cathy Burgess and her husband, Ken Burgess, of Vassalboro, Laura Catenaro, of Oxford, New Jersey,, and Susan Tulin-Dalrymple, of Flemington, New Jersey; her former son-in-law, Russell Reigle, of Augusta; her grandchildren Devin Polizzotti, Amanda Reigle, Anthony Catenaro and his wife, Nicole, Dyandra Conti and her husband, Joe, Brittany Reigle, Sarah Korom and her husband, Steven, Jaden Dalrymple, and Search Dalrymple; great-grandchildren Lucy Korom, Charlotte Catenaro, and Logan Korom.

Alice was predeceased by her parents William VanHoesen and Mary VanHoesen mother of Neshanic Station, NJ; and her six siblings, William VanHoesen Jr., Dora Gunther, Catherine Bartlett, Margaret Allaire, Arthur VanHoesen and Robert VanHoesen; and her darling Molly-girl and adored Kitty-Kitty.

In honor of Alice’s love for animals, please consider making a charitable donation to the Kennebec Valley Humane Society in her name.

DAVID L. CRAVEN

PALERMO – David L. Craven 74, of Palermo, passed away Thursday, January 2, 2025, following a lengthy illness. David was born in Wareham, Massachusetts, on March 18, 1950, to Richard Craven and Lois Baker O’Brien.

David and his family moved to Portland in 1955.

After high school David joined the U.S. Navy. While stationed at Newport, Rhode Island, he met the love of his life, Carmel, on a blind date. They have been together for 52 years.

David worked for K-mart, in Falmouth, for 25 years, retiring in 1997.

His favorite pastime was riding his bike. He loved making people laugh.

David was predeceased by his parents, his sister Laurie Craven, his brothers Edward and Timothy O’Brien, and his stepdad Henry O’Brien.

He is survived by his wife Carmel and three nephews, Philip, Patrick, and Tyler O’Brien.

TRUDY L. ELLIS

AUGUSTA – Trudy L. Ellis,76, passed away peacefully on Friday, January 3, 2025. She was born in Waterville on May 25, 1948, to Arnold and Alta Giroux.

She attended Sacred Heart School, in Waterville, and graduated Mt. Merici Academy, also in Waterville, in 1966. She graduated with a two-year business degree, in Boston, Massachusetts, in 1968.

She dedicated much of her professional life to the USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) and retired in March of 2004 after 31 years. During her professional career, Trudy also served in the United States Air Force for 10 years.

Trudy was a wonderful mother known for her big heart and endless love for her family, friends and a love for animals. She enjoyed traveling, daily crossword puzzles, gardening, cooking, baking, going to the beach, attending family sporting events and theater with friends, volunteering at the Hubbard Free Library, in Hallowell, and attending senior college, at UMA in Augusta.

She is survived by her daughter, Lisa and husband Jim; step-children Angie Brann and her fiancé Dan Poulin, and Jeremiah Ellis; grandchildren, Rebecca, Ava, Lindsey Brann and her boyfriend Thom Sidelinger, Connor Brann and his fiancée Hannah Smith; and great-grandchildren, Levi Brann, Luke Brann, Brady Sidelinger and Greyson Brann.

She was predeceased by her parents, Arnold and Alta (Bugbee) Giroux; son, Scot Laliberte; and her husband, David Ellis.

At Trudy’s request, there will be no funeral or services. A private gathering will be held at a later date.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at directcremationofmaine.com.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Scot Laliberte Scholarship Fund, Cony High School, 60 Pierce Dr., /augusta, ME 04330.

SUSAN BEGIN

WINSLOW – Susan (Lessard) Begin, 71, passed away on Friday, January 3, 2025, following a battle with cancer. Susan was born in Waterville on June 7, 1953, to Harold D. Lessard and Shirley A. (Adams) Lessard.

She graduated from Winslow High School, class of 1971.

After high school, Susan worked at Seton and Thayer hospitals, in Obstetrics and the Laboratory for many years. While raising her family, she worked in various positions, and then made her career as a bookkeeper for ME Biological Labs, Colby College Book Store, and the MacCrillis-Rousseau VFW Post #8835, in Winslow. She also continued to work remotely for Good Company, based in Austin, Texas, until she was no longer able to do so.

Susan was a volunteer at the Mid-Maine Homeless Shelter. Susan had a big heart for people in need. She was great at finding out who needed what, and assuring they received it. Susan also enjoyed reading, and music, and visiting her grandchildren Jude and Rose, in Austin, Texas.

Susan was predeceased by her parents.

She is survived by her husband, Ken Begin, of Winslow; two sons, Jason (Cristin) Carroll, and Brandon (Aly Bennett) Carroll; and her two grandchildren, Jude and Rose Carroll, all of Austin, Texas; her sisters, Paula (George) Gordon, Cyndy (Rick) Plante, and Ginny (Steve) Bolduc; two stepsons, Brian and Chris Begin; step-granddaughter Zarah; and step-grandsons Stark and Cliff Begin; cousin Elizabeth Mosher, as well as many other cousins; nieces and nephews, and their children.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, January 18, 2025, from 11a.m. – 2 p.m., at the Waterville Elks Lodge, 76 Industrial St., Waterville, Maine.

A private ceremony and burial will take place at Maplewood Cemetery in the springtime.

Arrangements are under the direction and care of Gallant Funeral Home, 10 Elm Street, Waterville. An online guestbook may be signed, condolences and memories shared at http://www.gallantfh.com.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Maine Children’s Home, in Waterville, either online (Donate) or via mail. If writing a check, please include “This gift is in honor of Susan Begin” on the memo line and mail the check to ATTN: Development, Maine Children’s Home, 93 Silver Street .Waterville, ME 04901

MATTHEW J. SMITH

FAIRFIELD – Matthew John Smith, 39, lost his final battle with the numerous health challenges he faced from birth on Monday, January 6, 2025. Matthew was born September 2, 1985, in Bangor, to Judy Klimavicz and Richard Thornley Jr., and later adopted by the late Joseph L. Smith.

Matt started life early and sadly left this world too early as well leaving a wake of love, laughter, and music.

Matt faced many obstacles in life from day one, arriving two months prematurely. Despite a lifetime of chronic health issues, he led a full and productive life. He held many jobs but the one he excelled at was working with teens at Goodwill Hinckley. Music played a huge role in Matt’s life, and one cannot think of him without remembering his love for guitar and music in general. He developed lifelong friendships with people he played with and had many “garage bands” throughout the years. Matt loved people and lived to make others laugh. His knack for impressions and his wild stories kept all of us in stitches. In the time of answering machines, he recorded messages impersonating many different celebrities and characters. One never knew what they would hear when leaving a message.

Matt was also naturally artistic. He was especially talented in writing and drawing. He was particularly drawn to the horror genre, much to his mother’s dismay. Lawrence High School had to redefine film class rules due to Matt’s amateur “Halloween” production.

If Matt were here to answer the question “What is your greatest accomplishment?” He would undoubtedly answer that it was his son, Mason. He loved Mason above all else and everything he did was for his little boy. Being a good father was always first in Matt’s mind, showering his son with love and attention. He did everything he could to be the best father he could be and succeeded at doing so.

Matt was predeceased by his adoptive father, Joseph L. Smith, adoptive grandparents, George and Maude Smith, his maternal grandmother, Anna Klimavicz; grandfather Bronius Klimavicz, and adoptive brother Jason Smith.

Matt is survived by his son John Wayne Smith; fiancée Nikki Lynne Sites; his mother and stepfather, Judy and Charles Reeves; his sister and her husband, Cassandra (Smith) and Jeff Thompson; niece Lena; and nephew Jace; stepbrother Nick Reeves and his fiancée Sara Gundermann; maternal uncle Timothy Klimavicz, as well as numerous other extended family members.

A service to celebrate Matt’s life was held on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at the Universalist-Unitarian Church, in Waterville.

Please visit Matt’s memorial page at https://svremembrancecenter.com/obituaries/matthew-smith-2025 where condolences, photos, and special memories may be shared.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to a college fund for his son Mason. Contact Cassandra for details.

JEFFREY CHARETTE

WINSLOW – Jeffrey Charette, 56, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, January 3, 2025, following several years of declining health. Jeff was born on October 5, 1968, in New Britain, Connecticut, to Donald and Marie Charette.

He grew up in Sidney and was a graduate of Messalonskee High School, in Oakland, and Kennebec Valley Community College (KVCC), in Fairfield..

Jeff worked in the construction field, earned a Master Electrician’s License, was self-employed, and worked at various companies until a serious back injury forced early retirement.

In his younger years Jeff earned a black belt in Judo, enjoyed hunting, fishing, and poker. He loved the camaraderie of playing pool and darts with friends.

He will be remembered for his quick wit, charisma, endearing smile, and his love, care, devotion, and companionship to his beloved mother these last eight years.

He was predeceased by both his parents; a sister; and many relatives.

Jeff is survived by his daughter and her family; sisters; aunts; and many cousins.

A private service to be held at a later date.

Please visit Jeff’s memorial page at https://svremembrancecenter.com/obituaries/jeffrey-charette-2025 where condolences, photos, and special memories may be shared.

PERCY O. YORK

SKOWHEGAN – Percy Otis York, 78, passed away on Friday, January 3, 2025. Percy was born in Skowhegan on May 31, 1946, son to Cyrus and Lottie (Corson) York.

Percy was raised in Skowhegan where he graduated from Skowhegan High School in 1966, then continued on to receive his associate’s degree in Fire Science from Kennebec Valley Technical College, now Kennebec Valley Community College (KVCC).

He served the town as a full-time firefighter for 27 years. Percy also worked many side jobs, 3 G’s Restaurant, Norwalk Shoe, Fitzpatrick Dairy, Gilblair’s Paving, Cross Hardware, and Blunt/Quinn Hardware. He even had his own lawn care, handyman, plowing service. He was known for his hard and dedicated work ethic.

On September 29, 1966, Percy married his high school love, Judi Bolstridge, and raised four children together. He was a faithful member of Canaan Calvary Church, serving where he was needed. He loved camping with his children and grandchildren. Most mornings would find him having coffee at various spots around town. Weekends were for eating out. Even though he traveled a lot, he would tell you he would rather be home.

He was predeceased by his parents Cyrus and Lottie York, and siblings Leeland, Freeland, Stanley, Lowney, Agnes, Joyce, Richard, Preston, Florence, Paul, and Wayne.

Percy is survived by his wife of 58 years, Judi York; children, Heidi (Peter) Lyman, Paul (Donna) York, Wendi York, and Julie (Ed) Owen; grandchildren, Caleb (Chelsea) York, Ali (Travis) Emmerson, and Kelsey Owen; great-grandchildren, Marlee York, Lincoln York, and Travis Emmerson, Jr.; brother, Harrison; sisters-in-law, Rachel York and Sharon (Dave) Bates; brothers-in-law, Roy Bolstridge and Peter (Rene) Bolstridge; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, several great-great-nieces and great-great-nephews.

Services to be announced in the spring.

Please visit Percy’s memorial page at https://svremembrancecenter.com/obituaries/percy-york where condolences, photos, and special memories may be shared.

GERALD R. STROUT

SKOWHEGAN – Gerald “Jerry” R. Strout, 78, passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 5, 2025, at the Andwell Hospice House, in Auburn, following a battle with a chronic illness. Jerry was born on August 9, 1946, in Waterville, son to Robert and Lucille (Boivin) Strout.

He attended Waterville area schools and graduated from Waterville High School in 1965.

Jerry was a standout basketball and tennis player in high school. He continued his love for sports and after graduation as an avid golfer. Jerry enlisted in the United States Army and was stationed across Europe for most of his armed forces career. After serving his country in the Army, Jerry worked a variety of jobs in the Waterville area before pursuing a career at C. F. Hathaway Shirt Co. for 11 years. He then worked at Huhtamaki, in Waterville, where he retired from in 2005.

In his retirement years, Jerry enjoyed traveling and camping across the country. He also enjoyed spending time with family and friends. Jerry found enjoyment and relaxation in feeding and watching the birds.

He was predeceased by both his parents; brothers, William “Bill” Strout and his wife Claudia, and Daniel “Dan” Strout; and nephew Travis Strout.

Jerry is survived by his loving wife of 54 years, Elaine; children, Ty Strout with his wife Amy, Janna Strout, and Tori Dubay; eight grandchildren Morgan, Zack, Kayla, Devon, Dakota, Sydney, and Katelyn; great-granddaughter, Maeve; brother Tim Strout with his wife Sue; along with several nieces and nephews.

At the family’s request there will be a Celebration of Life in Jerry’s honor for all to come and share your fond memories. This will be held at the Skowhegan Elks Club located at 21 Silver St. in Skowhegan, on Saturday, January 25, 2025, from 2 – 4 p.m.

Arrangements are in the care of Somerset Valley Remembrance Center in Skowhegan.

Please visit Jerry’s memorial page at https://vremembrance center.com/obituaries/jerry-strout where condolences, photos, and special memories may be shared.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Andwell Hospice House, 236 Stetson Road, Auburn, ME 04210.

TIMOTHY GIROUX

WINSLOW – Timothy Giroux, 82, of Winslow, passed away on Tuesday, January 7, 2025. Born March 20, 1942, he was the son of the late Daniel and Myrtle Giroux, and brother to seven siblings, Jackie, Paul, Donna, Pat, Dean, Carroll and Judy. Tim attended Waterville schools graduating in 1960.

On November 5, 1960, Tim married his high school sweetheart, Deborah Ann Hoag, with whom he recently celebrated a 64th wedding anniversary.

Tim worked at several area companies before establishing Giroux Upholstery which he operated from 1970 until his retirement.

Tim was passionate about music and was a charter member of the Kennebec Valley Chordsmen Barbershop Chorus where he sang for the past 51 years. He was also an avid reader and self taught historian. A longtime resident of Vassalboro, Tim served on various town committees and was active with the historical society in addition to being a volunteer fireman. He loved the outdoors, especially being on the lake and was an avid fisherman and hunter.

Tim is survived by his wife Debbie; his children, Marc (Rudy), of Palm Springs, California, Shelly (Jessie), of Monhegan Island, Jeff (Lisa), of Leadville, Colorado; grandchildren Carissa, Taylor, Michael and Jeffrey; great-grandchildren, Lia, Zoe, Carlos, Timothy, Elijah, Sophia and Cole..

He was predeceased by a daughter, Melony.

A celebration of Tim’s life will be held Saturday, January 25, 2025, from 1 – 4 p.m., at the St. Bridget Center, located at 864 Main St., Vassalboro. There will be a tribute to Tim at 2 p.m., and the family welcomes anyone to share memories. An additional celebration will be held at a later date in Palm Springs where he happily spent the last 14 winters.

In honor of Tim, the family asks that any donations be made in his memory to the Vassalboro Public Library.

RONALD A. BUMPS

Ronald A. Bumps, 72, passed away on Tuesday, January 7, 2025, at Glenridge Comfort Care Unit, in Augusta, following several years of declining health. Ronald was born on November 1, 1952, the son of Maxwell A. and Elizabeth Bumps.

He attended China Grammar School and Erskine Academy, in South China, where he was an avid athlete. He enjoyed hunting and fishing.

He spent a few years farming, but eventually became a talented builder in the Central Maine and Portland areas.

He was predeceased by his parents, his sister Patsy Glidden and nephew Bruce Glidden.

He is survived by his sister Bonnie Studley; nieces Wendy Bonsant, Betsy Glidden and Buffy Whitaker; and nephew Robbie Studley.

A private burial will be held in the spring.

WILLIAM C. McKEEN

WHITEFIELD – William Corliss McKeen, 83, of Whitefield, passed away on Wednesday, January 8, 2025, at his home. He was born in Millinocket on February 16, 1941, the son of Edwin and Verna McKeen.

He graduated from Camden High School in 1959.

Bill was a graphic designer, painter, genealogist, history buff and a collector of coins, guns, diecast car models, books and antiques. Bill’s interests were boundless.

He began his professional career at the age of five when he sold his first painting at the corner store in Rockport. Bill went on to become a maker of hand-painted signs. His design talents soon took him to Presque Isle where he became television art director at WAGM TV. Soon after he put his many talents together as a newspaper designer at The Aroostook Star Herald, in Presque Isle, Courier Gazette, in Rockland, and the Coastal Journal, in Bath, where he became owner and publisher. After selling the Coastal Journal, Bill formed an advertising agency, McKeen and Associates, in Bath. His next project took him full circle back to producing signs, but this time using digital technology, by forming Minuteman Signs, located in Augusta.

Bill had a way of putting people together with his confident optimism, calming presence, kindness, resilience and humor. He was both a cowboy, unafraid of a challenge, and a voice of reason.

Bill was dedicated to community and public service. He held leadership positions in Jaycees and Rotary. He served on many state and local political committees. He was active in local politics including serving two terms on the Whitefield Select Board and served as president of the Whitefield Historical Society. But his passion was his Scottish heritage. Bill was the president of the Saint Andrews Society of Maine and chairman of the Maine Highland Games where he gave his many creative talents. He was also vice president of the Ulster Scots Project of Maine.

Bill is survived by his wife of 41 years, Susan; his three sons from a previous marriage, Kevin McKeen and his wife, Jacki, of Dresden, David McKeen and his wife Sue, of Bolton, Massachusetts, Shawn McKeen and his partner Paula, of Westbrook; stepchildren Shawn Bowdoin, of Woodstock, Vermont, Christian Bowdoin, of Newcastle, Wyeth Bowdoin and his wife Ann, of Newcastle, Meagan Bowdoin and her husband, James Hanes, of Farmingdale; sister, Carol Underhill, of Lincolnville; brother, Richard and his wife Pat, of Poland; as well as numerous grandchildren; great-grandchildren; and step-grandchildren; nieces and nephews.

It was Bill’s wish to have a party and, in that spirit, a “ceilidh” will held at the Public House, in Newcastle. on Thursday, February 6, from 2 to 5 p.m.

SUSAN A. MORONEY

FAIRFIELD – Susan A. Moroney, 52, passed away quietly on Thursday, January 9, 2025, at MaineGeneral Medical Center. Sue was born in Waterville on October 3, 1972, to Robert J. and Mary Lou (Thurlow) Moroney.

She graduated from Lawrence High School, in Fairfield, class of 1991.

After high school, Sue worked for Belanger’s Drive In, in Fairfield, for many years, before beginning to use her eye for detail and passion for a clean house to clean other’s homes.

Sue was always known for her quick wit and caring ways, as she also helped to care for, first, her grandmother, Georgia Warren, and then her grandparents, Robert M. and Eileen Moroney.

Sue was most proud to be the mother to her twin daughters, Allie and Anna.

Sue was predeceased by her maternal grandparents, Georgia T. Warren and Dr. John M. Thurlow and her paternal grandparents, Robert M. and Eileen Moroney; as well as her father, Robert J. Moroney. She was also predeceased by Perry Waltz.

Sue leaves behind her domestic partner, Jeff Meimers; her mother, Mary Lou Moroney; twin daughters Allie Nadeau (Trevor Robbins), and Anna Nadeau (Nathaniel Armstrong); and a granddaughter Lilly Robbins; sisters Bridget West (Mark Carter), and Jane Moroney (Brad Bellows); as well as her nephew, Nicholas West (Meghan Reed); and niece, Emily West; several aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Visiting hours will be held on Monday, January 27, from 6 to 8 p.m., at Gallant Funeral Home, 10 Elm St., Waterville. A graveside service will be held at the Maplewood Cemetery, in Fairfield, in the spring, date to be announced.

An online guestbook may be signed, condolences and memories shared at http://www.gallantfh.com.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Sue’s name to the Humane Society Waterville Area, either online: https://hswa.org/ donate/ or mailed to 100 Webb Rd., Waterville, ME 04901.

RAYMOND F. EASTUP JR.

AUGUSTA—Raymond Franklin Eastup Jr., 90, passed away on Friday, January 17, 2025, at MaineGeneral Rehabilitation & Long Term Care at Gray Birch. He was born on June 12, 1934, a son of Eleanor (Wescott) and Raymond F. Eastup Sr.

Ray grew up in Windham and graduated from Windham High School in 1952. On September 26, 1958, he married Nancy A. Reed, and they raised two children: Margaret and Dean.

Ray held several jobs throughout his life with his primary career working for Suburban Propane Company, moving his family to South China from Gray in 1971. He filled several roles throughout the years, including truck driver, technician, and supervisor, retiring in 1996. In the years after their children had grown, Ray and Nancy enjoyed square dancing with the Central Maine Squares and traveling to many places in their fifth-wheel camper.

After retirement, Ray and Nancy spent 20 years wintering in Micco, Florida, where he was a Vero Beach community coach driver and a Micco Fire Department volunteer. Ray’s most beloved place was the family camp on Little Sebago Lake, in Gray, where countless summer memories were made over the years. The camp that he helped build in 1957 alongside his father. Ray will be remembered for wanting to know everyone’s first name, giving a kind word, and a helping hand.

Raymond is survived by his wife of 66 years, Nancy Eastup; his children, Margaret ‘Margo’ Beland and her husband, Bob; Dean Eastup and his wife Tami; and grandchildren: Gregory Perkins, James Eastup, Corey Eastup and his wife, Brandy, and Jesseca Eastup; his brother, Edward Eastup, Sr. and Edward’s family.

A period of visitation will be held on Saturday, January 25, from 2 to 3 p.m., at Plummer Funeral Home, 983 Ridge Rd., Windsor, ME 04363, where a memorial service will begin at 3 p.m.

Burial will take place in the spring at Gray Village Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Raymond’s name may be made to the Activities Dept at Gray Birch, 37 Gray Birch Drive, Augusta, ME 04330, or the charity of your choice. Condolences, stories, and photos may be shared by visiting www.plummerfh.com.

JENNIE B. CAPUTO

PITTSTON – Jennie Bickford Caputo, of Pittston, passed away on Christmas Day, Wed­nes­day, December 25, 2024. Jennie was born in War­wick, Rhode Island, to Leland and Elizabeth Bickford.

The family moved to New Hampshire when Jennie was a teenager, and to Pittston in 1971. There she married Joseph Caputo, lived in a log cabin and had two sons. She divorced in 1977. She enjoyed a simple life on her family’s farm and later in a cottage built atop Beech Hill.

Art was a lifelong passion. She made elaborate cakes and cookies, hand-cut silhouettes and painted watercolors. Her scenes of nature, place and family evoke an innocent, bygone era which still existed in her mind and heart. Animals were also part of her being. She had horses and enjoyed riding dirt roads in antique carriages and sleighs. A cat-lover, she earned a diploma in veterinary care and raised Maine coon cats.

While she preferred a solitary life, entertaining brought her great joy. Jennie’s charm made her lifelong friendships.

Jennie is survived by sons Cory, of Windsor, and Curry, of Whitefield, his wife Andrea Lani; and grandsons Milo, Emmet and Zephyr; brothers Stephen and Gary; sisters Leigh, Amy, Julianne, Marylee, and Heidi; 20 nieces and nephews.

GUY R. BEAULIEU

WATERVILLE – Guy Raymond Beaulieu, 72, passed away, in Augusta, on Monday, January 13, 2025. Guy was born April 15, 1952, in Waterville, the son of Ulysses Beaulieu and Therese (Poulin) Beaulieu.

He attended Connecticut public schools and later graduated from Kennebec Valley Community College, (KVCC), in Fairfield, with an associate degree in Respiratory Therapy.

In 1995, he was hired at MaineGeneral as a Respi­ratory Thera­pist. He work­ed there for 19 years, mostly in the Cardio­logy department.

Guy power lifted at Gilly’s Gym for years, winning multiple awards. While there, he also coached the youth powerlifting team. He was a member of the Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses, in Waterville, where he served as an Elder for many years.

Guy could often be seen riding his Harley, which was one of his many joys. He loved watching football, especially his favorite team, the New York Giants. In 1995 he married the love of his life, Robyn Pierce.

He was predeceased by his father, Ulysses Beaulieu, his mother, Therese (Poulin) Beaulieu; and his two older sisters, Jacqueline Veilleux and Lucille Nutt; and his nephew, Mike Veilleux.

He is survived by his wife Robyn (Pierce) Beaulieu; his son, Jacob Beaulieu and wife Marla, their soon-to-be born son, James Guy; his daughter, Ally Beaulieu; his brother, Luc Beaulieu and wife Lisette; and several nieces.

A memorial service will be held at the Waterville Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, at 416 Upper Main St., Waterville, on Saturday, January 25, at 2 p.m. All are welcome. To attend digitally on Zoom use link 2520251914, no password required.

Arrangements are under the direction and care of Gallant Funeral Home, 10 Elm St., Waterville. An online guestbook may be signed, condolences and memories shared at http://www.gallantfh.com.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Guy’s name to the Alzheimer’s Association at act.alz.org.

Winslow council repeals public safety department

by Jonathan Strieff

In a first reading of the ordinance at the January 13, Winslow town council meeting, council members voted 4-3 to repeal the Winslow Public Safety Department adopted on November 21, 2022, and reinstate the previously separated Police Department and Fire and Rescue Department.

The ordinance, sponsored by the newly-appointed Council Chairman, Fran Hudson, seeks to address staffing shortages, high rates of overtime pay, and the lack of cross training of officers promised by transitioning to the public safety model adopted in 2022.

“Since adopting the Public Safety Department, Winslow has lost six police officers and eight firefighters,” Hudson cited for pursuing the restructuring. “If I were a new graduate from the police academy or the firefighters academy, I would be looking for a job at a Police or Fire Department, not a Public Safety Department.”

Hudson also referenced other Maine municipalities like Gardiner and Old Town that transitioned to Public Safety Departments only to revert back to more traditional models after a few years.

Council members in favor of preserving the Public Safety Department, like Second District Council Member Dale Macklin and Councilor-at-Large Jeffery West, noted that overtime pay was on pace with what the council had budgeted for the fiscal year and that personnel disputes, common when the Police and Fire Departments had been managed separately, seemed to have disappeared since adopting the unified Public Safety Department’.

Public Safety Director, Leonard McDaid, and Deputy Fire Chief, Michael Murphy, both spoke favorable about the operations of the Public Safety Department, but both acknowledged that they, “serve at the will of the council,” and will run organize the departments accordingly.

The council also heard a presentation from Winslow Town Sexton, Jason Fitch, about the potential to expand McClintock Cemetery. Fitch shared that an abutting landowner has offered to sell the town up to two acres of land for new burial and cremation plots, but the Sexton needed to receive council approval to even sit down to negotiations with him. Fitch estimated the additional land would meet the towns needs for 10 years of burials and pointed out that there is currently no inventory available for burial or cremation plots in Winslow.

At the council meeting, Deputy Fire Chief Murphy also awarded Captain Adam Burgess with the award of Firefighter of the Year for 2024 and recognized retiring firefighter Paul DuCett for 28 years of service.

Vassalboro school board discusses major work at school

Vassalboro Community School (contributed photo)

by Mary Grow

The Jan. 14 Vassalboro School Board workshop and meeting included more discussion of plans for major work on the Vassalboro Community School (VCS) building, a presentation on the Gifted and Talented Program and a discussion of board members’ stipends.

The official meeting was preceded by a workshop presentation by engineer Erik Rodstrom, of Portland-based Energy Management Consultants (EMC). EMC representatives have attended prior meetings to talk about updating the building, which opened in 1990.

Rodstrom shared a spreadsheet that helps board members establish priorities, consider what projects might be combined and estimate costs.

He discussed criteria for selecting items to be done first. One is obsolescence: if an operating unit is so old neither replacement parts nor skilled technicians are available if it breaks down, it should be high on the list.

The amount of a project’s energy savings is another consideration; work that saves more money should be prioritized when practical. And the importance of the unit is a consideration: for example, Rodstrom said the VCS boiler is only about 12 years old, but if it should break down, the school would have to close.

Board members intend to review EMC’s multi-page report and make priority recommendations to be discussed at their February meeting.

When the school board meeting convened after Rodstrom’s presentation, Gifted and Talented (GT) teacher Rod Robilliard talked about his program, which has 40 VCS students enrolled. The purpose, he said, is to provide individualized learning that emphasizes each student’s talents and strengths.

“They want to stretch. They feel proud when they take on a challenge and succeed,” Robilliard said of his students.

When board member Jessica Clark asked if Robilliard needed anything, he said he might need minor funding, for example for transportation – but perhaps parents or the Parent-Teacher Organization will step up.

Robilliard’s half-time position is new and has expanded the GT program. Principal Ira Michaud praised Robilliard’s work, calling him a “phenomenal asset” to VCS.

A survey of GT students brought two main responses, Michaud reported: some said the program is perfect, others wanted longer and/or more frequent G/T classes.

Board chairman Jolene Gamage proposed discussion of board members’ stipends, for the first time in the dozen years she has been on the board. Given the lack of people willing to run for this and other town boards, she wondered if more money would help.

Probably not, she and other board members concluded; people serve on the school board because they want Vassalboro to have an excellent school, not for $400 a year. Several members did not know there was a stipend until the first check arrived.

Gamage did recommend that the board chairman – starting with her successor – be given extra money for extra time. Superintendent Alan Pfeiffer agreed; he communicates with the board through the chairman, he said, and frequently calls Gamage.

The issue was tabled for more information, including about other Maine school boards: how many members do they have, and how much are members paid?

In other business, Pfeiffer reported several pieces of good news, like ongoing cooperation with the town’s public works department under new director Brian Lajoie and a sound financial report from Director of Finance Paula Pooler.

Pooler was too busy preparing 2025-26 budgets for Vassalboro, Waterville and Winslow schools to attend the meeting, Pfeiffer said. He plans to present some parts of Vassalboro’s proposed budget at the board’s February meeting.

Board members accepted the resignation of special education teacher Kathleen Cole, effective at the end of the school year. Pfeiffer said Cole is retiring, after teaching at VCS since 2000.

The next Vassalboro school board meeting is scheduled for 6 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 11, preceded by another 4:30 p.m. workshop discussion of building work.

Thurston Park group continues talks on south entrance

Hikers on Bridge in Thurston Park (Photo courtesy: Town of China)

by Mary Grow

China’s Thurston Park Committee members spent part of their Jan. 16 meeting talking again about the possibility of opening a southern entrance to the 400-acre park in northeastern China.

The unpaved Yorktown Road runs north from the Mann Road, in China, through the park and across the Albion town line. Town voters discontinued the road in March 1956, but they kept an easement allowing public use.

The current entrance to the park from the north is down a steep hill, partly in Albion, that needs frequent repair. Albion does not maintain it; committee chairman Jeanette Smith explained that China money can’t be used outside town limits.

The southern end of Yorktown Road is Maurice “Steve” and Dawn Haskell’s driveway. The Haskells prefer not to have the road repaired and maintained for park access.

When Smith proposed last fall that committee members confer with the Haskells, Town Manager Rebecca Hapgood recommended they first consult select board members. At the Dec. 20, 2024, select board meeting, board members unanimously approved committee members reaching out to all landowners near the Yorktown Road at the south end of the park (see the Jan. 2 issue of The Town Line, p. 3).

Two of those landowners, Jerry Smith and Kathryn Kellison, came to the Jan. 16 meeting. They said they are reluctant to have access to their property improved, fearing trespassers and vandalism.

Jeanette Smith said road improvements would consist of adding gravel, ditching and where necessary installing culverts. The road would not be paved.

Opening a south entrance would not create through traffic on Yorktown Road. As at the north end, there would be a parking lot and a gate just inside the park boundary, she said.

Park hours are dawn to dusk, Smith said. There are no plans to plow the south entrance in the winter.

An alternative to improving the Yorktown Road as a southern entrance has been discussed: making a new right-of-way. Smith said that would be a complicated and costly undertaking.

She assured Jerry Smith and Kellison she would keep them informed of developments that might affect them

Jerry Smith and another guest, China Historical Society member Tim Hatch, mentioned other former roads, no longer maintained or even traceable, that might have run into the park, including one from Palermo. Smith concluded she needs to talk with more people.

The meeting included Hatch’s presentation on the history of the park, which opened formally on May 31, 2014. The town had owned much of the land since the 1950s.

The first parcel was a gift from Everett Thurston, because, Jeanette Smith said, when he and his family were down on their luck, town officials helped them out. More land was acquired through tax foreclosures, Hatch said, and one small piece was purchased.

Some of the landowners in what is now the park were members of China’s Black population. The Talbot cemetery, one of two identified Black cemeteries in China, is just outside the eastern end of the southern park boundary, at the Palermo town line.

Voters who responded to a pre-2014 survey and then approved the park did not want it to increase taxes, Smith said. Consequently, funding has come from grants, occasional fund-raising efforts and China’s TIF (Tax Increment Financing) money. Much of the labor of creating and maintaining trails and other facilities has been volunteer, including Eagle Scout projects.

Smith is waiting to find out whether the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) approves funds for repairs after the December 2023 storms, before she proposes a 2025 TIF fund request.

She is researching other funding sources, including the new $30 million trail fund Maine voters approved in November 2024.

A top priority project is designing and building a handicapped trail near the north end of the park and adding a handicapped toilet. Smith has approached the builder of the park’s other toilet facilities about taking on the new project.

On another topic, committee members briefly discussed plans for China’s Ice Days, Feb. 14 through 16. Smith said the park will host an Owl Prowl the evening of Friday, Feb. 14, and, if snow conditions permit, sledding the morning of Saturday, Feb. 15.

The next Thurston Park Committee meeting is scheduled for 6:30 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 20, in the portable building behind the China town office on Lakeview Drive.

China planners approve permits for retail store, rebuilding boat landing

by Mary Grow

China Planning Board members approved both applications on their Jan. 14 agenda, the one from the town after an unusually complex discussion.

The meeting began with a short public hearing on a proposed retail store at 363 Route 3. There were no comments from anyone present or on line, and codes officer Nicholas French, attending virtually due to illness, said he had received none.

After action on the town’s application, board members reviewed the Route 3 application, presented by engineer Steven Govoni, president of Skowhegan-based Wentworth Partners & Associates. Govoni was speaking for the developer, Calito Development Group, of Torrington, Connecticut.

Govoni made an initial presentation at the board’s November 2024 meeting. The public hearing was first scheduled for Dec. 10, but a snowstorm led board chairman Toni Wall to cancel the meeting. Govoni thanked her, saying driving had been dangerous Dec. 10.

Board members compared plans for the store with the 15 criteria in China’s ordinance, found that the criteria were met and unanimously approved a permit, with the usual reminder that there is a 30-day appeal period.

The single-story, 9,100-square-foot steel building will replace the two-story wooden building that most recently housed Grace Academy Learning Center (closed in June 2022). Govoni said the store will use the existing septic system and a new well, which requires state approval.

There will be two bathrooms, one for staff and one for the public.

Planners asked if town would support homeless veterans housing

At the Jan. 14 China Planning Board meeting, resident and former select board member Robert McFarland and his business partner, Darren Desveaux, of Waterville, asked whether board members think the town would support a housing project for homeless veterans, including a vocational rehabilitation facility.

The two have organized a nonprofit organization, yet to be named, and are considering buying land on Pleasant View Ridge Road, at the McCaslin Road intersection. MacFarland said their project would replicate one near the Togus Veterans Administration Medical Center.

Codes Officer Nicholas French said more than three individual housing units would constitute a subdivision, even if the land were not divided into lots.

Govoni said the Central Maine Power line across the back of the property limits placement of buffers from neighboring properties, so they will be the existing lawns, not the trees often required. Because the neighbors are also commercial establishments, board members were satisfied.

In reply to the criterion about hazardous materials, Govoni said there will not be enough to require preventive measures under state law.

He said the store is part of a “national brand” that has its own safety standards and protocols, sometimes stricter than state laws.

He did not name the “national brand.”

The application from the Town of China was to move more than 100 cubic yards of earth. The earth-moving is part of rebuilding Town Landing Road in South China.

The plan select board members have endorsed involves paving the short road that runs to the boat landing on China Lake, with the paving sloped to send run-off into ditches with check-dams, and at the lake a buffer strip and an improved launching area.

As directed by the town manager, codes officer French had filled out the application, because, he said, he was the most knowledgeable person except for those who will do the work. At the Jan. 14 meeting, he answered planning board members’ questions virtually. The application asked for evidence that the project met the same 15 criteria applicable to the Route 3 retail store.

Rebuilding the road is intended to minimize run-off into China Lake. French reminded planning board members the town has been legally required to take action for 20 years. Selectboard members have discussed the landing at several meetings in the last couple years.

French had left blank the reply to the first criterion, whether the project meets all applicable laws and rules. He said the town has a state Department of Environmental Protection permit by rule, and the project meets town requirements.

Board member Michael Brown objected to leaving an answer blank, leading to a 15-minute discussion of whether the application should have been presented by the town manager or a select board member, instead of the codes officer.

Replies to other criteria included references to the proposed check-dams in the proposed ditches and other planned work beyond moving more than 100 cubic feet of earth. For example, French wrote that the project would enhance the value of neighboring properties, and in discussion mentioned the paved road – not part of the work applied for, protested board member Dwaine Drummond.

In another answer, French referred to crushed rock to be placed near the lake. Again, not relevant, Drummond said. With French’s approval, Wall deleted the reference from her copy of the application.

After almost an hour, the permit was approved, conditional on a required flood hazard application that French said he needs to create. The ordinance requires a flood hazard document only for structures, not for road improvements, he explained.

During the public comment period at the end of the Jan. 14 meeting, several abutters who had watched on line objected to some of the board’s conclusions. They reminded planning board members of the requirement to prepare detailed written findings supporting their decision.

At previous meetings and hearings, neighbors have urged select board members to limit the landing to hand-carried canoes and kayaks, minimize signage and otherwise try to keep their neighborhood quiet.

The next regular China Planning Board meeting is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 28, in the town office meeting room.

EVENTS: Vassalboro church to hold benefit for California fire victims

A benefit supper will be held by members of the Vassalboro Methodist Church on January 25th to benefit the southern California fire victims. Pictured here are some members of the planning committee, from left to right, Dale Potter-Clark, Nancy Adams, Linda Millay, Cindy Shorey and Simone Antworth all of Vassalboro. (photo courtesy of Dale Clark)

by Dale Potter-Clark

Members of the Vassalboro United Methodist Church (VUMC) are holding a public supper on Saturday, January 25, to benefit the southern California fire victims. The menu will include baked beans, salads, casseroles, breads and desserts.

Thousands of homes and businesses have been destroyed in the southern California fires, as well as local schools and churches. Preliminary assessments of the damage are underway and the United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) has already awarded two solidarity grants to the California-Pacific Annual Methodist Conference to undergird their immediate relief efforts. This includes evacuee support like food and essential supplies as well as support for volunteer efforts and other relief activities. Proceeds from the VUMC public supper will assist the fire victims through the efforts of UMCOR.

The supper will take place at the VUMC, at 614 Main Street, Vassalboro, from 4 to 6 p.m., for a $10. donation. FMI email info.vumc@gmail.com or phone (207) 873-5564 and/or visit the Vassalboro United Methodist Church facebook page.

EVENTS: Vassalboro scouts to be honored on Scout Sunday

The Vassalboro Boy Scouts of America Scouting Troop #410 and Pack# 410 will be honored at the Vassalboro United Methodist Church on Scouts Sunday, February 2. Front row, from left to right, Declan McLaughlin, Lila Reynolds, Boone McLaughlin, Metcalf, and Beckett Metcalf. Back, Cubmaster Chris Reynolds, Lux Reynolds, Cole Stufflebeam, William Vincent, Christopher Santiago, Hunter Brown, and Scoutmaster Christopher Santiago. (contributed photo)

by Dale Potter-Clark

Members of the Vassalboro United Methodist Church (VUMC) will honor the Vassalboro BSA Scouting Troop #410 and Pack #410 and their Scoutmasters at 10 a.m., on Scouts Sunday, February 2. “We want to commend our Vassalboro Scouts for their outstanding community service and good deeds,” said VUMC’s Pastor Karen Merrill. “We hope that former Scouts and leaders will also plan to attend.” A reception will follow in the VUMC fellowship hall. Family members are also invited and encouraged to attend.

The event will take place at the Vassalboro United Methodist Church, at 614 Main Street, from 10 a.m. to noon. FMI email Pastor Merrill info.VUMC@gmail.com or Chris Santiago vassalborocubscoutpack410@gmail.com.

Issue for January 16, 2025

Issue for January 16, 2025

Celebrating 36 years of local news

Eric Handley elected district scouting chairman

The Kennebec Valley District of Scouting has elected Eric Handley, of Sidney, to serve as District Scouting Chairman and Christopher Santiago, of Vassalboro, was tapped to serve as District Scouting Commissioner. This took place during the annual meeting of the district on Wednesday, January 8, at the Pleasant Street United Methodist Church, in Waterville… by Chuck Mahaleris

Town News

Select board begins preparing for annual town meeting

CHINA – China select board members have started preparing for the June 10 annual town business meeting, and it will not be a return to the pre-Covid open meeting that some residents would like to see…

Erosion control cost estimate higher than expected

VASSALBORO – Vassalboro Conservation Commission members re-discussed a main topic from their Dec. 18 meeting on Jan. 8, after they got a higher than expected cost estimate for their December plan…

Action postponed on rate increase for large items at transfer station

VASSALBORO – Vassalboro select board members disposed of three issues on their lengthy Jan. 9 meeting agenda…

R. L. Mercantile & Trading Post gets board approval, with conditions

VASSALBORO – Vassalboro Planning board members have approved a site review permit for R. L. Mercantile & Trading Post, with conditions…

U.S. Attorney’s Office, AARP Maine, and Maine Council for Elder Abuse Prevention Launch Elder Fraud Program

CENTRAL ME — The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maine has announced an innovative new elder fraud awareness program that will utilize the inherent relationships of pharmacists and their customers to reach older Mainers. The Maine Rx Elder Fraud Program is a collaborative effort between the U.S. Attorney’s Office, AARP Maine, and the Maine Council for Elder Abuse Prevention…

Camp Pondicherry and Camp Natarswi open registration for summer 2025 campers

CENTRAL ME — Ready for limitless fun, friends, and new experiences? Girl Scouts of Maine (GSME) is excited to announce the official opening of online registration for Summer 2025 overnight camp sessions, which began Wednesday, January 15. Prospective campers of all ages can register by visiting the camp page on our website ­– no Girl Scout experience necessary!…

Emmett Appel elected for United States Senate Youth Program

WINDSOR — The United States Senate Youth Program (USSYP) is pleased to announce that high school student Emmett Cook Appel will join Senator Susan M. Collins and Senator Angus S. King in representing Maine during the 63rd annual USSYP Washington Week, to be held March1-8, 2025…

PHOTOS: A day on the ice

VASSALBORO — Frank Richards, of Vassalboro, recently took to the ice to do some fishing. It proved to be a succesful day…

PHOTOS: Remembering the past summer

WATERVILLE — Brinley Bisson, 4, of Waterville, enjoyed some successful fishing herself this past summer. At left, fishing off a dock at Green Valley Campground, in Vassalboro, the same place her mother, Kassandra Bisson, of Waterville, learned how to fish, and hauling in a bass, at her grandparents’ campsite, on Webber Pond…

Northern Light Health recognizes National Blood Donor Month

CENTRAL ME — National Blood Donor Month is a time to recognize and celebrate blood donors, and to remind people of the importance of donating blood. During National Blood Donor Month Northern Light Health would like to extend gratitude to those who have generously donated in the past, saving countless lives, and making a profound difference in our community….

Community foundation receives two grants

PALERMO — The Living Communities Foundation has received two grants, so there will be some improvements on Turner Ridge Road. The first, in the amount of $3,700, came from the Governor’s Cabinet on Aging through the Community Connections Program…

POETRY CORNER: Sweet Dreams

An original poem from Marilou Suchar…

Name that film!

Identify the film in which this famous line originated and qualify to win FREE passes to The Maine Film Center, in Waterville: “I’m walking here! I’m walking here!” Email us at townline@townline.org with subject “Name that film!” Deadline for submission is February 6, 2025.

Erskine Academy first trimester honor roll

CHINA — List of honor roll students at Erskine Academy….

Husson University announces Spring 2024 local academic award recipients

CENTRAL ME — Husson University has announced academic achievements of students recently named to the President’s List, Dean’s List and Honors List for the Spring 2024 semester of the 2023-2024 academic year…

Local happenings

EVENTS: Waterville Area Soup Kitchen to hold fundraiser

WATERVILLE – The Waterville Area Soup Kitchen will be holding its first fundraiser on Thursday, March 20, at the Elks Club, on Industrial Street, in Waterville. The event is a tropical themed winter getaway. The doors will open at 5 p.m…

CALENDAR OF EVENTS: China Lake ice fishing derby

CHINA – The 6th annual China Lake ice fishing derby will take place on Sunday, February 16, 2025. Cash payouts will be in several categories. Over $10,000 in door prizes. Tickets are $5 each or 3 for $10 and include fishing derby entry and chance for door prizes… and many other local events!

Obituaries

WINDSOR – Larry Marshall Honea, 68, passed away peacefully in his home on Saturday, December 28, 2024, following a long hard battle with cancer. He was born on July 10, 1956, a son of Lawrence and Carrie (Hollis) Honea…

Up and Down the Kennebec Valley: China elementary schools (Continued into the 20th century) (new)

CHINA HISTORY — As mentioned in previous articles about 19th-century Maine elementary schools, in 1894 the state legislature passed a law that began, “The school districts in all towns in this state are hereby abolished”… by Mary Grow

Up and Down the Kennebec Valley: China elementary schools

CHINA HISTORY — What is now the Town of China was settled in 1774, starting on the shores of China Lake, and promptly incorporated as Jones Plantation… by Mary Grow

Up and Down the Kennebec Valley: Clinton and Benton School

CLINTON/BENTON HISTORY — This subseries on education is organized by the dates the central Kennebec Valley towns were incorporated, and Clinton, in 1795, was next after Fairfield, in 1788. Therefore the history of education in Clinton, on the east side of the Kennebec River, opposite the northern part of Fairfield, follows the December 2024 articles on Fairfield… by Mary Grow

Up and Down the Kennebec Valley: Fairfield high schools

FAIRFIELD HISTORY — This article continues the history of schooling in Fairfield with information on the town’s high schools. It begins with conflicting information about where the first high school classes were held… by Mary Grow

Town Line Original Columnists

Roland D. HalleeSCORES & OUTDOORS

by Roland D. Hallee | One of the educational things I do for myself every day is read the comics in the daily newspaper. It kind of sets the tone for the rest of the day for me. I have my favorites: Peanuts, Hi and Lois, Beetle Bailey, Garfield, etc. I even like to read Mark Trail just to see what kind of adventure he sets out on, and invariably, brings to a successful and happy ending…

THE BEST VIEW

by Norma Best Boucher | Report card 1952, Kindergarten—Norma has a vivid imagination. Mrs. W: “How’s school going, Norma?” “Daddy, it’s only baby grade, and we only go in the morning.” “I know, but kindergarten is a big deal. What do you do in school?” “We read a big book on a chair about Dick and Jane. We color. We sing. We put our heads on the tables when the teacher reads us a story. We have “Show and Tell,” and we roll in the dirt and swear”…

SMALL SPACE GARDENING

by Melinda Myers | Report card 1952, Kindergarten—Norma has a vivid imagination. Mrs. W: “How’s school going, Norma?” “Daddy, it’s only baby grade, and we only go in the morning.” “I know, but kindergarten is a big deal. What do you do in school?” “We read a big book on a chair about Dick and Jane. We color. We sing. We put our heads on the tables when the teacher reads us a story. We have “Show and Tell,” and we roll in the dirt and swear”…

Peter CatesREVIEW POTPOURRI

by Peter Cates | Former New York Governor Thomas Dewey (1902-1971) has been pretty much tossed in the dumpster of 20th century ancient American history, except for brief mentions as the Re­pub­lican opponent of FDR – Franklin Delano Roosevelt – in 1944 and of Harry S Truman, in 1948…

FOR YOUR HEALTH

(NAPSI) | As you set your 2025 goals, don’t forget one resolution that can transform every aspect of your health and happiness: better sleep…

REVIEW POTPOURRI: Interesting people

Peter Catesby Peter Cates

Former New York Gov. Thomas Dewey

Thomas Dewey

Former New York Governor Thomas Dewey (1902-1971) has been pretty much tossed in the dumpster of 20th century ancient American history, except for brief mentions as the Re­pub­lican opponent of FDR – Franklin Delano Roosevelt – in 1944 and of Harry S Truman, in 1948, (the photo of smiling Harry holding the New York Times cover story, Dewey Beats Truman, when that News that’s Fit to Print institution called the race a bit too early, has reappeared zillions of times in history books as a quite telling example of “losers” getting the last laugh).

To Dewey’s credit, his work as a prosecutor during the 1930s smashed the Murder Incorporated crime syndicate and sent its leader Lepke Buchalter to the electric chair in 1944.

Dutch Schultz attempted to murder Dewey in 1935, despite orders not to from the mob leadership, which resulted in his own death soon after by a hit man while using the restroom in a Newark, New Jersey, bar .

Lucky Luciano was successfully prosecuted by Dewey for his prostitution rackets, later commenting how much he detested Dewey for “making him a gangster in the public’s eye.”

As a presidential candidate, Dewey campaigned on a carefully blended mix of “pay as you go liberalism and compassionate liberalism. ” During the 1950s, Dewey exerted powerful influence in the Republican party and his backing of Eisenhower helped much in the 1953 White House victory.

A quite interesting 1975 book, The Best Years 1945-1950, has a chapter, “The GOP: Dewey, Again, ” in which author Joseph C. Goulden casts a not so favorable light on his insufferable arrogance. Dewey divided people into two groups – those “who could help him politically; and the press, servants and lesser public.”

Goulden writes one paragraph that conveys just how despicable Dewey could be:

“Warren Moscow, a political writer for the New York Times who knew Dewey well, said of him, ‘Mr. Dewey is a strange character – or perhaps I might say, he’s a strange lack of character. ‘ According to Moscow, soon after Dewey became governor he received a report about an outbreak of amoebic dysentery at a state mental hospital. One patient had already died. A legislative leader asked Dewey privately what he intended to do. Dewey replied, ‘Oh, we’ll let it slide a bit, let it coast for a little while, and then we’ll make a bigger splurge when we clean it up.’ Seven deaths later Dewey acted, depicting the hospital situation as ‘typical of twenty years of dry rot and incompetence’ of preceding Democratic administrations. ‘In my opinion,’ Moscow said, ‘it boils down to seven people dying so that Mr. Dewey could get his name in bigger headlines.’ “

My first awareness of Thomas Dewey came via a 1960 Look magazine with a photo gallery on its front cover of six famous political leaders – FDR, Truman, Eisenhower, Nelson Rockefeller, then-Massachusetts Senator John Fitzgerald Kennedy and Dewey with his own beaming smile and little black mustache.

Marguerite Matzenauer
Pasquale Amato

M. Metzenauer

Donizetti: La Favorita – “Ah! L’alto armor (Oh, Love)”; Pasquale Amato, baritone, and Marguerite Matz­enauer, soprano; Victrola Red Seal 89062, one-sided 12-inch acoustic shellac disc, recorded 1912.

Soprano Matzenauer (1881-1963) was a native of Timisoara, Romania, and sung in a number of Italian and German operas at the Met during the World War I years. She also had a phenomenal memory and learned the very demanding role of Kundry for a production of Wagner’s opera Parsifal on short notice.

Italian baritone Amato (1878-1942) appeared at Milan’s La Scala in 1907 in several successful productions conducted by Arturo Toscanini and followed the Maestro to the Met when the latter became Music Director in 1908, Amato remaining there until 1921. During the mid-’30s, he landed a job teaching voice at Louisiana State University.

Both singers left a sizable number of recordings. Their 1912 collaboration in a love duet from Donizetti’s richly melodic opera La Favorita, despite the acoustic sound, is one very exquisite example of blended vocalism with each doing solo turns. This performance can be heard via YouTube and, for connoisseurs of fine operatic singing, is most highly recommended.

John Capodice

John Capodice

During season 8 of the series CSI, accessible without commercials on Hulu, character actor John Capodice (1941-2024) did a skilled performance in a recurring role as a Las Vegas mobster Gedda who has several police officers, prosecutors and judges on his payroll. Just the manner in which Gedda eyeballs different individuals with undesirable attention is something to watch.

 

 

 

 

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Northern Light Health recognizes National Blood Donor Month

National Blood Donor Month is a time to recognize and celebrate blood donors, and to remind people of the importance of donating blood. During National Blood Donor Month Northern Light Health would like to extend gratitude to those who have generously donated in the past, saving countless lives, and making a profound difference in our community.

Throughout this special month, we reflect on the significance of blood donation and its vital role in ensuring a stable and sufficient blood supply for patients in need. Every pint donated has the potential to save up to three lives, making each donor a true hero.

Our trauma surgeons care for patients who’ve had accidents every day. When you give blood, you help our surgeons deliver the care our patients deserve. “As a trauma surgeon, I witness firsthand the critical importance of blood donations on our patients’
lives,” says Amy Fenwick, MD, Trauma Medical Director, Northern Light Surgery and Trauma. “During National Blood Donor Month, I urge everyone to consider donating blood; it truly is a lifesaving resource that can mean the difference between life and death for those in need, especially during emergencies and crucial medical procedures.”