SCORES & OUTDOORS: Ermine population stable; one of world’s top 100 most invasive species

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The different coats of the winter and summer ermine.

Roland D. Halleeby Roland D. Hallee

Last week, I received a phone call from a reader in Palermo who told me that for only the third time in the last 17 years, he spotted an American ermine crossing his back yard.

The American ermine or American stoat, Mustela richardsonii, is a species of mustelid native to most of North America.

It was long considered conspecific with the stoat, but a 2021 study found it to be a distinct species. The finding has been accepted by the American Society of Mammalogists.

Both ermines and mink belong to the same subfamily, which contains weasels, badgers, ferrets, polecats and wolverines. These two creatures share many features, but differ in several ways.

Ermines resemble the long-tailed weasel in general both appearance and coloration, but is smaller, has a shorter tail, and has white fur on the inner side of the hind legs.

The species is found throughout most of North America aside from most of Alaska (although it is found on some islands in southeastern Alaska), eastern Yukon, most of Arctic Canada, and Greenland. It reaches the northern extent of its range in Baffin Island and a portion of eastern mainland Nunavut and ranges from here to cover almost all of western North America south to northern New Mexico, and eastern North America south to northern Virginia. It is absent from most of the Southeastern United States and the Great Plains.

The International Union for Conservation of Nature lists the ermine population as stable and of least concern.

In North America, where the ecological niche for rat- and rabbit-sized prey is taken by the larger long-tailed weasel, the American ermine preys on mice, voles, shrews, young cottontails, chipmunks, deer mice, jumping mice, and house mice. Usually the ermine kills by biting at the base of the skull. Small birds, frogs, small fish, and earthworms are other types of prey for ermines.

Ermines live and find cover from predators in hollow spaces from logs, burrows and man made structures. Ermines sometimes den within their prey’s nest and use their skin and fur as a lining for their den.

Ermines are mostly nocturnal, but may forage by day.

The ermine is listed as one of the top 100 most invasive species in the world. It was introduced to several areas to reduce rabbit populations and rapidly became a threat to ecosystems because of its vicious nature and ability to sustain itself on a variety of prey.

At one time, the ermine was sought for its attractive fur. During the winter months, the ermine’s fur turns white, making it a valuable and prized material for fur clothing. In medieval Europe, ermine fur was highly sought after for its rarity and beauty, and it was often reserved for use by royalty and other members of the nobility.

They breed in dense parts of the forest. The season for breeding is late springtime to the summer from July to August. The males mature in a year while the females only take three to four weeks to mature. The females carry a litter of four to seven babies for 255 days then gives birth.

Some of the larger wild predators of ermines are minks, martens, fishers, bobcats, coyotes, and large owls and hawks. Occasionally, a domesticated cat or dog may kill an ermine. Their small agile bodies help them evade these predators, while also allow them to compete with their predators for food in more barren months.

In spite of its bad smell and small size, however, the ermine is very self-confident, even rude – it often sits up and stares directly into the eyes of humans. Ermines do not dig its own den when they give birth, instead, they will take over old lemming burrows, food caches or graves.

According to my research, it appears that it is legal to have an ermine as a pet in Maine. However, I would advise to check with the state before owning one.

Roland’s trivia question of the week:

Which NFL team allegedly changed its geographical name in an attempt to attract a larger fan base?

Answer
In 1971, the Boston Patriots changed their name to the New England Patriots, when they moved to Foxborough.

Kennebec Valley Council of Governments names Joel Greenwood executive director

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Joel Greenwood, from the Kennebec Valley Council of Governments. (photo by Eric Austin)

The Kennebec Valley Council of Governments (KVCOG) has announced that its board of directors has appointed Joel Greenwood as executive director.

Eric Dyer, KVCOG Board of Director’s President and Town Manager of Readfield, announced “We are excited for the opportunity to bring one of our most talented and experienced employees into the executive director role on a permanent basis. Joel is already well known to our membership and fully aware of KVCOG operations and services, which will result in a near seamless transition for the organization.”

Dyer added, “In his new position Joel’s expertise as a planner will strengthen KVCOG’s essential role in supporting regional and local planning initiatives and provide deliberate and thoughtful leadership.

“I am very happy to be able to step up on a permanent basis to lead KVCOG as its next executive director, ” Greenwood said. “My long tenure and experience in the organization will make the transition as smooth and quick as possible. I’m grateful to continue working with the exceptional team at KVCOG that provides high-quality and valuable services to the municipalities of the Kennebec Valley.”

“As an organization, KVCOG will continue to look for new ways to assist communities across the region.” Greenwood succeeds Matthew Underwood, who tendered his resignation to the board of directors in late January. Joel has been with KVCOG since 2011 and has had more than 20 years of experience in nonprofit work, redevelopment, economic development in rural communities and all aspects of rural and urban planning. His years of experience in all aspects of KVCOG’s operations, existing relationships with its members and as an admired mentor and leader to the KVCOG team translates to a bright future for KVCOG and its member municipalities.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, February 29, 2024

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Remembering Bill Gemmill

The Lincoln County Historical Association (LCHA) recently lost long-time volunteer and trustee Bill Gemmill when he passed away recently. Bill and his wife Sally have been active and respected LCHA volunteers for many years; his passing is a great loss to LCHA as an organization, but more importantly to the many members of the LCHA community who counted him as a friend.

William Gemmill, 79, of Wiscasset, passed away peacefully at Togus Springs Hospice, on Sunday, January 21, 2024. Born on October 2, 1944, in New York City, he was raised by his parents Huber and Marion Gemmill in Short Hills, New Jersey.

Bill arrived in Wiscasset after retirement and became involved not only with LCHA but also shared his time and talents with the Maine Maritime Museum and Historic New England. We were all fortunate to benefit from his deep interest in decorative and folk arts, his experience as a collector and researcher of historic objects – particularly schoolgirl art, and his love of maritime history.

As he became more invested in the Wiscasset area, he began to add historical artifacts from the region to his collections and generously shared his growing knowledge of local history with LCHA. A faithful and active member of the Stewardship Committee that cares for our Old Jail and Museum in Wiscasset, Bill was instrumental in the production of the 2018-19 exhibit there, Sails on the Sheepscot. This exhibit was a wonderfully educational and carefully curated show that reflected Bill’s particular interest in nautical history. Bill also contributed to LCHA’s mission by both arranging and giving presentations of his own to the public. His knowledge and kind demeanor always meant his presentations and friendly conversations alike were educational and interesting.

Bill’s contributions to LCHA also included sitting on the finance and investment committee, where all looked to him as a leader with both extensive knowledge and sound judgment. Likewise, as a trustee, Bill demonstrated leadership that helped set the board on a path toward well-considered decisions that kept the organization on track for growth and success. Staff and trustees valued his input and looked for his advice and approval on organization-related decisions.

As Bill stepped back from board activities in recent months, his absence was notable, with several trustees expressing that they missed his guiding presence. Trustee George Keyes wrote, “Bill was a man of great wisdom which he expressed in an understated way with the result that his points or thoughts were of a very soothing nature in shaping further discussion at our trustee or committee meetings… Bill took his responsibilities very seriously and his contribution was of inestimable importance.”

The association was truly fortunate to have Bill among its organization’s leadership and he will be greatly missed. LCHA staff and trustees extend their condolences warmly to Sally at this time.

LEE-PAUL VEILLEUX

WATERVILLE – Lee-Paul Veilleux, 52, passed away on Thursday, February 1, 2024. He was born on November 25, 1971, in Waterville, to his parents Jean-Paul Veilleux and Gabrielle F. Veilleux (Rossignol).

Lee attended Mount Merici Academy, in Waterville, until the sixth grade and continued to Lawrence Jr. and Sr. high schools, in Fairfield, class of 1990. During one summer vacation while in elementary school, Lee became “Youth of the Year” at the Waterville Boys and Girls Club, winning a 10-speed bike which he was very proud of, for his participation/activity efforts for that summer.

Lee, along with his brother Normand, served as Acolytes at Notre Dame Church, in Waterville.

He worked at Goodwill-Hinckley School, in Hinckley, helping at-risk youths finding their way in life. Lee had worked at other jobs such as in accounting with Wal-Mart, advertising for Uncle Henry’s and as an associate at Bull Moose music.

Lee had developed an early love for reading, which led him to write his own short stories and novels and was in the process of getting published. Moreover, Lee had expanded his talent to photography for the illustrations of his writings, and received an online certificate from, “New York State of Photography” course, which furthermore helped him in opening his own photography business. With his creativity, he also received his cosmetology license from the State of Maine. As anyone who knew Lee, he was an enamored a die-hard Superman fan, relating to anything Superman – movies, TV series, and comic books, also becoming a collector of all of these.

Lee will be missed by many of his relatives and friends, including Ron Reynolds and Ethan Pierce, from Central Maine. Lee liked going camping, spending time outdoors and taking road trips with them, and spent much time creating special memories with their families, playing pseudo uncle to their children, who will also miss him dearly.

Lee-Paul was predeceased by his father Jean-Paul Veilleux, and his paternal grandparents, Joseph and Marie-Louise Veilleux, from Canada, and maternal grandparents, Phillip and Louise Rossignol, from Waterville.

He is survived by his mother Gabrielle Veilleux; brother Normand Veilleux; and nephew Tresten Bergeron and wife Tiffany; his Godparents, Raymond and Yvonne Lefebvre, from Winslow; many uncles, aunts, and cousins from Canada and in the U.S.

A Mass of Christian burial will be held on Friday, March 8, 2024, at 10 a.m., at Notre Dame Catholic Church, 116 Silver Street, Waterville. There will be light refreshments at the family’s residence, in Fairfield, shortly after his services for those wishing to attend.

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, donations may be made in Lee’s name to the National Kidney Foundation, at Attn: Gift Processing at National Kidney Foundation HQ, 30 East 33rd Street, New York, NY 10016, or online at http://www.support.kidney.org.

RICHARD McPHAIL

FAIRFIELD – Richard “Dickie” McPhail, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 6.

A Mass of Christian burial will take place on Saturday, March 16, at 11 a.m., at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, on 26 Monument St., Winslow, followed by a celebration of life at the St. John Catholic School, 15 South Garand St.

Arrangements are in the care of Lawry Brothers Funeral Home. A full obituary can be viewed at http://www.lawrybrothers.com and memories and an online guest book can be signed.

GAIL M. DAVIS

FAIRFIELD – Gail Marie Davis, 86, a longtime resident of Fairfield, died on Wednesday, February 14, 2024, in Augusta. She was the daughter of Mary and Joseph Leonard, born on November 6, 1937, in Camden.

She attended Vassalboro schools. At age 18 she married Douglas Davis and together they raised three children, Rhonda, Greg, and David. Dougie and Lucille Davis were also Gail’s two stepchildren. Gail was a house wife and personal care assistant for the elderly.

She was predeceased by her parents; her husband Doug; brother Jimmy, sister Mary; and her eldest son Greg. When Gail was a child, she also lost two of her brothers in a tragic drowning accident.

She is survived by her children Rhonda Levine, David Davis and wife Jill; grandchildren Nicole Levine, Gregory Davis, and Haley Davis; brother Martin and his wife Evelyn and daughter Tiffany; great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

A spring graveside service and celebration of life will be determined at a later date.

JEANNINE GENEST

OAKLAND – Jeannine Genest, 78, of Oakland, passed away on Wednesday, February 14, 2024.

Although Jeannine had many health ailments over the years, she courageously battled her illnesses with every fiber of her being. Instead of focusing on herself, she devoted her energy to her family and friends, which resulted in a home that was welcome to all. Over the years, she and Bob hosted many people at their lakefront home, playing one of their favorite board games “tocks”, taking boat rides, chatting, laughing, and cooking large meals for everyone. One thing was certain, anyone who came to visit never left with an empty stomach.

Celebrating holidays with her children and grandchildren was a tradition of utmost importance to her. She maintained close associations with her many relatives and traveled from Fort Kent to Connecticut, visiting with them while spending time reminiscing, playing cards, or visiting a casino. She had a very special lifelong relationship with her aunt Cecile, cousin Louella, and dear friend Pat. On occasion her travels took her to Florida, Las Vegas, and a once in a lifetime cruise to Bermuda.

Jeannine was known for her commitment and dedication to doing what’s right and had a strong work ethic. Prior to her retirement she worked for the Maine DOT Maintenance and Operations, in Fairfield, as an office manager, then moved on to an administrative role in Augusta. Before that she worked at Keyes Fibre Co. (now Huhtamaki), in Waterville, and Scott Paper Company, in Winslow. She was also a member of the supervisory committee at KSW Federal Credit Union, in Waterville. Another personal accomplishment, one she was very proud of, was the fact that later in life she was able to continue her studies and graduated from Thomas College, in Waterville, with a degree in business administration.

Because of her caring and generous nature Jeannine will be deeply missed, however her memory will live on through those who loved her.

She is survived by her husband of 55 years Bob; her daughter Renee and husband Rick, son Bob and wife Sacha; granddaughters Chantel and husband Dylan, Lexi, Rylie, Jaidyn; grandson Wyatt; and great-grandson Lucas; her siblings Lulu and Marie; sisters-in-law Susan, Paula and husband Don, Cheryl and husband Steve; brothers-in-law Dale, Mike and wife Peggy; as well as many nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her mother Regina and father Renie; her sisters Rita and Jackie, her brother Gil; her mother-in-law Blanche, father-in-law Vincent; and sister-in- law Joan.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 a.m., on Saturday, March 9, 2024, at Notre Dame/ Corpus Christi Parish, 116 Silver St., Waterville. All are welcome and invited to attend a Celebration of Life in the church hall immediately following the Mass.

Please visit Jeannine’s memorial page at https://dsfuneral. com/obituaries/jeannine-genest where condolences, photos, and special memories may be shared.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks to carry on Jeaninne’s loving nature and pay it forward with a random act of kindness at https://www.randomactsofkindness.org/kindness-ideas.

ERIC B. FOGG

WATERVILLE – Eric B. Fogg, 67, passed away peacefully in his home on Thursday, February 15, 2024. Eric was born on December 8, 1956, in Waterville, and was the youngest son of Leo and Avena Fogg.

Eric spent 15 years in Connecticut before settling in Vassalboro at the age of 17 where he remained until his passing.

Eric worked for several companies including; Cives Steel Co., in Augusta, Diamond International Co., in Oakland, and Northern Country Concrete before settling in the town of Winslow.

Eric was an avid hunter, fisherman, and outdoorsman. You could always find Eric outside or spending quality time with his family.

Eric was predeceased by both his parents and his brothers, Dana Fogg and Verdel “Bud” Nash; his lifelong partner Robyn Philbrook, of Clinton, and their daughter Brandy Fogg; his parents-in-law Robert and Marie Philbrook, of Clinton; his brother Bruce Nash, of Dolores, Colorado; his cousin Ruth Woodbury; several nieces and nephews; his daughter Brandy and his niece Shenee Foster, of Clinton,.

There will be a celebration of life which will be announced at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating towards cremation and burial costs as family had expected more time with Eric. Donations may be sent to Robyn Philbrook, P.O. Box 274, North Vassalboro, ME 04962.

DAVID B. NEWELL SR.

CLINTON – David B. Newell Sr., 67, passed away at home, on Saturday, February 17, 2024. Dave was born in Fairfield on March 15, 1956. He was the son of Thomas I. Newell Sr. and Marjorie A (Ellis) Newell (deceased).

He attended Lawrence High School, in Fairfield, and graduated in 1976.

Dave’s career was with Fred’s Vending, in Waterville, where he worked for 25 years. Before that he was a milk delivery man for Fitzpatrick’s Dairy, in Benton. Dave coached the P.A.L. football and baseball teams for more than 20 years. As a true fan he watched the New England Patriots and Boston Red Sox every weekend. He was an avid fisherman and hunter. He liked the outdoors and camping with family, and he very much enjoyed playing pool and cribbage.

Dave held many lifelong friendships and enjoyed times spent around the campfire telling stories and cracking jokes. Dave was often in charge of safety meetings at camp and encouraged it frequently.

Dave is survived by his wife Tina (Short) Newell of 36 years; son, David and his wife Nicole and their children; daughter, Katie-Lyn and her husband Josh and their children; brothers Tommy and his wife Dru and their family, Danny and his wife Maureen and their family; his sister Mary and her husband Timmy Tinker and their family; his brothers-in-law Dana and girlfriend Liz, John and wife Ali and family, David and girlfriend Jaclyn; his sister-in-law Debbie Short.

Public visitations took place at Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, at 107 Main Street, in Fairfield, on February 24, and a service was held following.

CLARA HUSTUS

FAIRFIELD – Clara Hustus, 99, passed away on Monday, February 19, 2024. She was born on June 4, 1924, to Bliss and May Lawrence, in North Abbington, Massachusetts.

She was a long time member of the Clinton Baptist church and enjoyed singing in church and in the choir. She loved her church family. Clara lived a long and full life and was looking forward to celebrating her 100th birthday in June.

Clara was an avid reader and spent many hours crocheting. She gave many crocheted doilies to her friends and family. She entered her handiwork into local fairs and was very proud of the ribbons they garnered.

She was predeceased by her husband, Louis Violette, who died in 1963. She then married Henry Hustus, who died in 2003, her sisters Ruth Lawrence, Marie Hart, and brothers, Paul Lawrence and Bliss Lawrence Jr.

She is survived by her children Louise Violette Dudley (Tim), of Clinton, Laurel Gustafson (Greg), of Clinton, Anthony Violette (Kay), of Little Rock, Arkansas, and Larry Hustus, of Dover, New Hampshire; grandchildren, Melissa, Amy, Meagan, Andrea and Nathan; great-grandchildren, Jaxson, Owen, Natalie, Wyatt, Quinton, Gus, Francis, Luke; and many nieces and nephews; her sister Barbara Witham; brother Robert Lawrence (Linda); and sister-in-law Carol Lawrence.

A celebration of life will take place on Friday, March 1, at the Clinton Baptist Church, at 2 p.m., with refreshments to follow in the fellowship hall.

Burial will take place at a later date at the Pittsfield Village Cemetery.

IDA-JOYCE LEVINE

BOSTON, Massachusetts – Ida-Joyce Levine, 81, passed away on Monday, February 19, 2024, in Boston, Massa­chusetts, where she had been living for the past few years after spending most of her life at her home in Waterville.

Ida-Joyce’s life revolved around family. She was a daughter, sister, niece, aunt, great-aunt, great-great aunt and friend. She never forgot a birthday or anniversary of those she loved, and she rejoiced in the joys of her family. She had a sharp mind and an excellent memory. She was a valued source of family history, including dates and events, and was appreciated for her caring attention to the details of the lives of her wide circle of family and friends.

Ida-Joyce always made enormous efforts to attend all family milestone events, and they brought her great joy. She excelled at staying in touch with all those she loved and was a wonderful correspondent via phone and written notes. Ida-Joyce graduated from Coburn Classical Institute, in Waterville, and attended Boston University.

She worked for many years as a librarian, first at the Social Law Library, in Boston, and then at the Maine State Library, in Augusta, for decades. She loved her work and her colleagues there who became lifelong friends.

She was an active member of Beth Israel Synagogue, in Waterville, and especially enjoyed events, educational opportunities, and services led by Rabbi Rachel Isaacs, who became a dear friend as well. Ida-Joyce was also active in and supported a Holocaust remembrance group in Maine and attended many Holocaust lectures over the years.

Ida-Joyce loved her home state of Maine and also loved to travel. She traveled to many countries throughout her life and recounted those trips with great detail and enthusiasm. She loved music, had a wonderful singing voice, and was a very talented piano player who played beautifully by ear.

Ida-Joyce is survived by her siblings Judith L. Brody (the late Judge Morton A. Brody), Robert A. Levine (Tobie) and Frederick E. Levine; 11 nieces and nephews; 32 great-nieces and -nephews; and one-great-great-nephew.

She was predeceased by her brother, Julius B. Levine, and by her parents, Lewis L. and Celia G. Levine.

The funeral for Ida-Joyce Levine was held at the Jewish Funeral Home, at 471 Deering Ave., Portland, on Tuesday, February 20, 2024. Burial followed at Mt. Sinai Cemetery, Portland.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Ida-Joyce’s memory to Beth Israel Congregation, P.O. Box 1882, Waterville, ME 04901.

ANNETTE M. UEBELHACK

OAKLAND – Annette Marie Uebelhack, 66, of Oakland, unexpectedly passed away on Monday, February 19, 2024, at home. She was born in Waterville on August 7, 1957, to Ernest and Violet Pelotte and has lived in Oakland her whole life.

Annette was known by different names such as Ma, Mimi, and Mrs. Maples, which she got from the local restaurant she loved. She enjoyed crocheting and knitting, but most of all, enjoyed spending time with her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and all the friends that came with them. She absolutely loved to crochet for the community; whether it be mittens or blankets, she always wanted to help whenever she could. She was so generous and caring that she would give whatever she had, whether it be coffee or a home cooked meal to anyone she met. She really knew how to make everyone feel welcome and loved.

Annette is predeceased by her parents, Ernest and Violet Pelotte, brothers Alan Pelotte and Robert Pelotte, son Benjamin Uebelhack, grandson Connor Trask, and great granddaughter Leah Wentworth.

She is survived by her husband Russell Uebelhack; sons John Hippler Jr. and wife Cami, of Oakland, Alan Hippler, and wife Melanie, of Augusta, and Neil Uebelhack, of Waterville; daughter, Samantha Allen and husband Jeffery, of Sidney; grandchildren, Rajel Hippler, Michael Hippler, Kaia Trask, Caden Trask, Steven Anthony, Taylor Hippler, Dylan Hippler, and Emily Hippler; two great-grandchildren, Reigan and Caysen Wentworth; her brother and sister; nieces, and nephews.

A graveside service will be held in the spring.

For more information, please reach out to her family members.

Arrangements are entrusted to the compassionate care of Wheeler Funeral Home, located at 26 Church Street, Oakland. Memories of Annette can be shared, and an online register book can be signed by visiting http://www.lawrybrothers.com.

ROLAND J. GAGNON

WHITEFIELD – Roland J. Gagnon, 88, died Thursday, February 22, 2024, at the Alfond Center for Health, in Augusta, following a brief illness. He was born in Augusta on January 24, 1936, a son of the late Eugene Gagnon, Sr. and Valeda (Caouette) Gagnon.

Mr. Gagnon attended Augusta schools and was a communicant of St. Augustine Catholic Church, in Augusta.

He had been employed for over 30 years with the State of Maine, Department of Improvements and had previously worked for Pare and Liberty Painters.

Mr. Gagnon enjoyed the outdoors, hunting, archery, outdoor photography, winning prizes for some of his pictures.

In his late teens, he began bodybuilding to help with his asthma.

He was a former member of the Le Club Calumet, in Augusta, Capitol Sportsman’s and Archery Club and area snowmobile clubs.

Mr. Gagnon was predeceased by his brothers, Eugene Jr., Ronald and Roger.

He is survived by his wife, Theresa A. (Thibodeau) Gagnon, of Whitefield; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

At his request, there will be no public visiting hours or funeral service. Burial will be held in the spring.

Arrangements are under the care of Plummer Funeral Home, Windsor Chapel, 983 Ridge Rd., Rt. 32, Windsor.

Condolences, stories and photos may be shared at http://www.plummerfh.com.

OTHERS DEPARTED

IRA SYLVESTER

MELBOURNE, Florida – Ira Sylvester, 97, passed away on Wednesday, February 14, 2024. Born in Waterville, he was the son of the late Elwood and Eva (Hamlin) Sylvester.

Ira was raised on a small farm in East Winslow, attending local schools and working different jobs, including working in the woods and picking up milk at local dairy farms.

In 1955 Ira began a distinguished military and civil service career that sent him and his family around the globe. After retiring in 1991 he and his wife Isobel moved to Florida where he enjoyed life to the fullest.

He was predeceased by his brothers Fred, Merlon and Ralph Sylvester, and sisters Irene Blomiley and Jessie Brooks.

Ira is suvived by his wife of 65 years Isobel (Murdoch) Sylvester; his son Bruce Sylvester and partner Kim, of Oakland, his daughter Shona Cox, of Melbourne, Florida; and three granddaughters Samantha, Melissa and Adhley Sylvester, all of Oakland; and many nephew and nieces.

A celebration of life will be held Sunday March 3, 2024, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., at the MacCrillis-Rousseau VFW Post #8835, in Winslow.

EVENTS: Apple tree pruning workshop

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Late winter is the time for pruning apple trees, and Kennebec County Soil & Water Conservation District [Kennebec SWCD] announces an outdoors, skill-building workshop at a volunteer property in Vassalboro.

An apple tree pruning workshop will be held on Saturday, March 9, from 9:30 a.m. – noon, at 167 Taber Hill Rd Road, in Vassalboro.

The workshop, led by apple tree enthusiast Joe Dembeck, will cover methods and tools used to prune fruit trees in order to increase their viability and production. After a brief overview, participants will get to test their skills pruning apple trees.

Dress in warm layers as this is an outdoor event. Participants are encouraged to bring their own pruning equipment as well as work gloves. Heavy shoes or boots are also recommended. Pole saws, hand saws, and loppers will be available for participants to try as well. This is a fairly primitive site with limited restroom facilities. Please be prepared to use outhouse facilities if needed.

Registration by Monday, March 5 is required. The cost is $10 per person, payable by cash or check on the day of the event. Please note, enrollment will be limited to 24 individuals to ensure a safe and productive event for all participants.

To register or for more information, contact the Kennebec District office at 207-622-7847 x3 ask for Dale Finseth at Dale@kcswcd.org.

CORRECTION: The address has been updated.

VASSALBORO: New hire proposal withdrawn; select board nixes KVCOG membership

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by Mary Grow

After reviewing pieces of the proposed 2024-25 town budget at their regular meeting Feb. 22, Vassalboro select board members scheduled a special meeting for 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 29, to continue discussion.

Two decisions were made Feb. 22.

— Town Manager Aaron Miller said he had postponed his proposal to hire a part-time town office staff member, given the difficulty of finding candidates for the position. Select board members did not argue.
— Paying for a membership in the Kennebec Valley Council of Governments was deleted. Board chairman Chris French said he saw no need for the organization’s help in 2024-25.

Board members reduced the proposed 2024-25 paving budget. They agreed to buy a skidsteer, to plow North Vassalboro sidewalks beginning next winter and for other, year-round uses, and to budget the first of three installments for a new loader. No public works department representative was at the Feb. 22 meeting.

They considered a proposal to offer family health insurance to town employees. Miller said five employees would be interested. French sees offering the coverage as a way to keep Vassalboro competitive in the job market.

There was consensus that adding family coverage to present policies is not necessarily the way to go; more options will be explored.

Conservation Commission spokesman Holly Weidner said the China Region Lakes Alliance (CRLA), for which $13,500 was recommended, is inactive for lack of an executive director. There is a proposal that China and Vassalboro lake associations take over the CRLA’s Courtesy Boat Inspection (CBI) program, with the Conservation Commission coordinating and getting the $13,500.

The proposed appropriation was labeled water quality and its place in the budget left undetermined while, Miller said, he “figures out what’s going on.”

Weidner said over the years CBI inspectors have found and removed fragments of invasive weeds on boats being brought to China and Vassalboro lakes and ponds.

Select board members’ recommended budget will be reviewed by the budget committee. Voters will make the final decisions at the June 3 annual town meeting.

The Feb. 22 meeting started with a public hearing on a revised solid waste ordinance, now renamed the Solid Waste & Recycling Ordinance. There were no public comments. This ordinance, like the budget, will need voters’ approval.

A second public hearing was on an application for a junkyard license for the property at 1499 Riverside Drive, which includes a junkyard and a business named ABC Fuel. There was agreement to consider the junkyard and the fuel business as separate, even though they’re on the same site.

Codes officer Jason Lorrain said although the application is for a junkyard license renewal, he considers it a new license, because, he said, former owner Olin Charette’s son is the current owner.

On Lorrain’s recommendation, select board members unanimously approved the junkyard license. Lorrain said the new license has the same conditions, like requiring screening, that previous ones had.

From the audience, planning board member Douglas Phillips said ABC Fuel needs a site review permit from the planning board as a new business.

In other business, select board members continued discussing with Lorrain, Phillips and Miller what changes, if any, need to be made in town ordinances to comply with the new state law commonly called LD 2003.

Intended to promote affordable housing, LD 2003 loosens density requirements in some parts of municipalities to allow one or two ADUs, Accessory Dwelling Units, to share a lot on which a single house currently stands.

There was agreement on two points: the law would not allow increased housing density along Vassalboro’s lakes and ponds, because shoreland zoning limitations would prevail; and the relevant document in Vassalboro is the town’s eight-page Building Permit Ordinance, not the Site Review Ordinance.

Miller said there are evidently two options: propose amendments to the Building Permit Ordinance for voters’ approval, or take no action, in effect leaving compliance with state law to the codes officer.

The codes officer, rather than the planning board, has primary responsibility for the Building Permit Ordinance. Lorrain has been studying the issue and presented some questions for select board discussion.

An ordinance amendment, if the chosen choice, would require a public hearing and a town vote. Renewed discussion was postponed until May, after board members finish preparing the 2024-25 budget.

Open letter to Maine legislators

The following letter was sent to all Maine legislators from Vassalboro Town Manager Aaron Miller:

Feb. 21, 2023

Dear Legislator,

I am writing to you today as a member of Delta Ambulance’s Board of Directors, Town Manager of Vassalboro, first responder for Whitefield, and resident of Alna.

Faced with inadequate funding, EMS agencies in Maine have struggled for years to keep their heads above water. In the years since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, many of those services have been pushed beyond their tipping point.

Staffing shortages were exacerbated by delays in new EMS clinician graduations and agencies were subsequently forced into wage wars to recruit and retain existing field providers. Payroll along with other operating costs rose to levels never seen before while insurance reimbursements, the backbone of EMS funding, stagnated.

The Blue Ribbon Commission extensively studied EMS services across Maine and identified a large gap between reimbursement and expenses. The Commission recommended a dispersal of $70 million each year for five years to all of Maine’s transport services. Despite the Commission’s recommendation and clear demonstration of need, less than half of the $70 million was approved for a one-time infusion, and only $10 million was allocated for emergency funding. Furthermore, transporting services like Delta were capped at receiving no more than $200 thousand – an amount that quite frankly will do nothing for sustainability.

For the first time since 1972, Delta, which currently provides 911 coverage to 13 towns in the greater Augusta and Waterville regions, recently instituted service fees of $15 per capita to towns receiving their 911 coverage. At the end of last year, Delta announced that the per-capita charge will increase to $25 per capita for 2024 and that by 2025, it will fall somewhere in a range between the mid-thirties to seventies depending on other factors. These numbers reflect the necessary changes to reach a break-even budget.

Just recently, municipal officials in the towns of Albion, Benton, China, Fairfield, and Oakland have cited a “fiduciary responsibility” to their citizens and are asking for a reduced rate of $20 per capita this year – an amount that cannot be accommodated by Delta. If the BRC’s recommended amount had been approved and released promptly, it would have allowed for a slower per-capita rate increase and lessened the blow to towns already facing financial challenges of their own.

The funding was announced seven months ago. Delta still hasn’t seen any of these funds despite a successful application submission which was not made available until December. Can you please let us know when we can expect to receive these funds? What are the plans to effectively address the statewide issue and how will this be accomplished in a timely manner?

Sincerely, Aaron C. Miller

EVENTS: Northern Light Acadia Hospital observes National Eating Disorders Awareness Week

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28.8 million Americans will experience an eating disorder at some point in their lives.

February 26 through March 3 is National Eating Disorders Awareness Week and Northern Light Acadia Hospital is taking the opportunity to raise awareness and share important information about eating disorders with our communities. Did you know…

  • Nine percent of the US population – or 28.8 million Americans – will experience an eating disorder at some point in their lives.
  • Eating disorders have the second highest mortality rate of any mental illness, with the risk of death being highest in anorexia nervosa.
  • Eating disorders are complex medical and mental illnesses. Genetic, biological, environmental, and social factors all can play a role.

A commonly held misconception about eating disorders is that they are a lifestyle choice. Eating disorders are actually serious and often fatal illnesses and can affect anyone, regardless of age, size, gender, race, sexuality, ability, and more. Common eating disorders include anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder.

The good news is early intervention can make all the difference. Getting treatment early in the course of an eating disorder greatly improves the chances of recovery. If you or someone you love is struggling with an eating disorder, don’t wait to get help.

In honor of National Eating Disorders Awareness Week, Acadia Hospital is lighting up in green for the week, turning our rooftop lights to green to bring attention to this important cause.

Through its Eating Disorders Treatment Program, Acadia Hospital offers a number of important resources for anyone struggling with an eating disorder. With individual, family, and group therapy options, nutrition counseling, medication management, and more, Acadia’s trained and dedicated team of experts can help. To learn more, visit our website at northernlighthealth.org/Acadia_EDTP.

CHINA: Organizations answer questions about budget requests

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

by Mary Grow

China select board members discussed the 2024-25 budget for much of their Feb. 26 meeting, and scheduled another meeting for 6 p.m. Monday, March 4, to continue the topic.

At this stage, they are reviewing Town Manager Rebecca Hapgood’s recommended figures and requests from various committees, organizations and other recipients of town money. They will forward the resulting draft budget to the budget committee for its members’ input.

Final decisions will be made by voters at the annual town business meeting, scheduled as a secret ballot vote on Tuesday, June 11.

More than a dozen town employees and residents attended the Feb. 26 meeting, most to answer select board members’ questions about budget requests.

Select board members are interested in minimizing the tax increase they foresee for the 2024-25 fiscal year. Preliminary proposals to reduce spending in the draft budget included cutting anticipated tipping fees for demolition debris disposal (from the transfer station section of the budget) and cutting the contribution to the fire departments’ capital reserve fund (public safety).

China Village fire chief Joel Nelson said he foresees two major expenses, replacing air packs and repairing or replacing the fire station roof. He is seeking grants, with no guarantee of success.

Select board members deleted the stipends for themselves they had tentatively approved at an earlier meeting. They reduced that line (in the boards and committees section of the budget) from $12,500 to Hapgood’s recommended $1,500 for training and similar expenses.

A request for Thurston Park funding, also in the boards and committees account, drew the longest and hottest debate of the evening.

Select board chairman Wayne Chadwick opposed the $12,675 Jeanette Smith, chairman of the Thurston Park Committee, requested for supplies and maintenance.

Chadwick, while appreciating the enthusiasm of the volunteers who support and maintain the park, questioned the value of the area, which he said many China residents cannot even locate.

Smith said the park brings recreationists to China, where they are likely to spend money in local establishments. If the park is not well known, that is because town officials do nothing to promote it, she said.

Selectman Wayne Chadwick said on his most recent visits to Thurston Park he met no one. Thurston Park Committee member Scott Monroe said he meets families in Thurston Park.

Chadwick said on his most recent visits to Thurston Park he met no one; and he prefers the unmaintained trails at Lake St. George State Park. Thurston Park Committee member Scott Monroe said he meets families in Thurston Park, and prefers maintained trails.

Chadwick made a motion to cut $10,000 from the Thurston Park appropriation. Board member Janet Preston amended the reduction to $2,500. Preston’s amendment was approved, supported by herself, Blane Casey and Jeanne Marquis and opposed by Chadwick and Brent Chesley.

The motion to cut $2,500 was then defeated, with Preston and Marquis voting for it and Chadwick, Chesley and Casey opposed.

Casey’s motion to recommend $8,500 for Thurston Park under the boards and committees account was approved unanimously.

The revised total of $84,220 for the boards and committees account was unanimously recommended to the budget committee.

China’s Tax Increment Financing (TIF) fund was the other budget line on which board members made final recommendations to the budget committee. They approved nine appropriations recommended by the TIF Committee at its Feb. 5 meeting (see the Feb. 8 issue of The Town Line, p. 2).

Select board members lacked information to act on three non-budget items on their Feb. 26 agenda.

Hapgood shared a draft of the proposed new Solar Energy Systems Ordinance. Chesley had questions, which planning board chairman Toni Wall said the planning board would address at its Feb. 27 meeting.

Hapgood said town attorney Amanda Meader has not finished preparing suggested revisions to the town’s Land Use Ordinance that will incorporate required parts of the new state housing law, LD 2003.

The manager is investigating a senior check in service as something the town might offer, but she needs more time to collect information. She described it as a program for which seniors could sign up to ask a town employee to call at intervals to make sure the resident was all right.

Give Us Your Best Shot! for Thursday, February 29, 2024

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To submit a photo for this section, please visit our contact page or email us at townline@townline.org!

CLEANING UP: P. Varney, of the Neck Road, in China, captured this bald eagle helping itself to some carrion.

LAST CAST: Erin Gray, of Vassalboro, took this picture of Stephen Page fishing on China Lake, in East Vassalboro, right before the dock was taken out.

AH…SUNNY WARMTH: Joan Chaffee, of Clinton, snapped this groundhog last summer.

EVENTS: Ecology Learning Center moves to new location, Begin fundraising campaign

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The Ecology Learning Center is now the proud owner of the Clifford Arts & Student Center (formerly known as the Unity Center for Performing Arts), thanks to the generosity of Unity Environmental University in collaboration with Unity Foundation. In order to maintain and fully realize the capacity of this beautiful 8,000 square foot facility, they must raise $150,000 by June 30, 2024. Please support the public charter high school by donating to their capital campaign and attending events at the student-run theater!

The mission of the Ecology Learning Center is to deeply root students in Maine’s ecological and cultural landscapes, foster authentic real-world learning through mentorship and craft, and cultivate compassionate and resilient leaders prepared to engage in the challenges of today and tomorrow.

The center is located at 230 Main St., in Unity.

Friday, March 1:

Monte Selby: A Story To Be Told

The first event at the Bert & Coral Clifford Arts and Student Center will be Dr. Monte Selby performing original songs with the school’s students – A Story To Be Told.

5th annual China Lake ice fishing derby huge success

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Anglers from the area came out for a fun day of fishing and camaraderie during the ice fishing derby. (photo by Cindy Senkbeil)

by Sandra Isaac

Left to right, China Four Seasons Club President Tom Rumpf, sponsor Deisel Dan and Trevor Yorke, winner of the Lunker of the Day prize. (photo by Cindy Senkbeil)

The China Four Seasons Club and the China Village Fire Department co-hosted the 5th Annual China Lake Ice Fishing Derby, on Sunday, February 18, during Maine’s Free Fishing Weekend.

“It was an amazing day of fun, families, and fishing,” said China Four Seasons Club President Tom Rumpf. “We were a little concerned about ice conditions, but everyone used caution and the Fishing Derby went off without the fire department doing a cold-water rescue.”

Rumpf continued. “We also had the children’s fishing division catch our greatest number of perch to date with over 140 brought to the fire house for counting.” The first-place award went to Blake Owens with 56 total perch. Perch, which have inundated hundreds of water systems where they don’t belong, tend to proliferate, stunt, and overwhelm ecosystems. Each year the derby committee checks in with the local biologists to make sure they are still able to hold the children’s category as described, with awards going to the most perch caught by count.

“One of the derby committee’s goals is to emphasize the importance of youth and family getting out and enjoying the great outdoors. This year we added a special prize, that any youth under 15 years of age who brought a fish to the firehouse caught during derby day was entered in drawing for a lifetime Maine residential fishing license to promote future sportsman. We are proud to say we gave our first lifetime license away this year to Daxton Carbollo,” said Rumpf.

Blake Owens (photo by Cindy Senkbeil)

The derby also saw a new record for the lunker of the day, the largest fish caught overall. Trevor Yorke managed to catch a 7.22 pound largemouth bass, beating the former record held by Jeremy Ross and his 6.375 pound catch.

“We also gave away over 56 door prizes all donated by great local businesses,” said Rumpf. “In fact, there were $10,000 worth of donated prizes and fishing awards. The local support is rather overwhelming, and we are very grateful.”

“There was also a great turnout for the Cornhole Tournament as well as the China Ice Day’s activities around town over the weekend. Even if fishing was not your thing, there was something for everyone. We really look forward to this every year and encourage all area groups to be involved”, said Rumpf. If anyone is interested in joining the committee, which also helps coordinate the China Ice Day’s weekend events, please check the China Four Seasons Club website for meeting dates and times.

The China Four Seasons Club maintains a dedicated Facebook page and a website to share information including a list of who won fishing prizes, door prizes, and sponsors.

Please visit https://www.facebook.com/China-Lake-Ice-Fishing-Derby or www.chinalakeicefishingderby.com.

Fishing Prize Winners!

Lunker of the Day – Trevor Yorke with a 7.22 lbs. Large Mouth Bass.

Brook Trout

First Place – Tim Farris 1.48 lbs.
Second Place – Ryan Hamel 1.25 lbs.
Third Place – Mathew Mann 1.06 lbs.

Brown Trout

First Place – Scott White 3.6 lbs.
Secnd Place – Bill Vanwicker 3.26 lbs.
Third Place – Lindsey Witwiki 3.14 lbs.

Large Mouth Bass

First Place – Jeffery Winslow – 5.92 lbs.
Secnd Place- Stephen Vose – 5.6 lbs.
Third Place – Shawn Grant – 5.52 lbs.

Small Mouth Bass

First Place – Brendan Surette – 2.74 lbs.
Secnd Place – Damon Theriault – 2.64 lbs.
Third Place – Abby Violette – 2.6 lbs.

Pickerel

First Place – Courtney Belanger – 4.58 lbs.
Second Place – James Grover Jr. – 4.1 lbs.
Third Place – Val Baker – 3.96 lbs.

Children 15 & under Category – Most Perch (White or Yellow)

First Place– $50 – Blake Owens with 56!
Second Place – $40 Taylor Arsenault with 26
Third Place – $30 Alexis Wentworth with 20
Fourth Place – $20 – Ellie Soule with 18
Fifth Place – $10 – Myles Bradley with 17

(photo by Cindy Senkbeil)

(photo by Cindy Senkbeil)