Front row, from left to right, Adrian DeLeonard, Jojo Garay, Sawyer Bearce and Chase Strahorn. Middle row, Carter LePlante, Jaxon Troxell, Gabe Staffierre, Quincy Brittingham and Avery McKenna. Back, Coach McKenna and Coach Troxell (photo by Missy Brown, Central Maine Photography)
by Roland D. HalleeAs we look forward to saying “goodbye” to February and welcome March with open arms, a thought comes to mind of an old weather lore, “In like a lion, out like a lamb.” In this case, it could be vice versa, considering the mild weather we have had as we usher in the third month of the year. So, it’s more like, “In like a lamb, out like a lion.”
Much like regular folklore, weather lore is passed down through speech and writing from normal people without the use of external measuring instruments. The origin of weather lore can be dated back to primieval men and their usage of star studying in navigation. However, more recently during the late Middle Ages, the works of two Greek philosopher-poets, Theophrastus of Eresus on Lesbos and Aratus of Macedonia, are known greater for shaping the prediction of weather. Theophrastus and Aratus collated their works in two main collections for weather lore: On Weather Signs and On Winds. These were used for helping farmers with harvest, merchants for trade and determining the weather the next day.
Weather lore is the body of informal folklore related to the prediction of the weather and its greater meaning.
Astrology and weather lore have been closely interlinked for many years – with each planet often being associated with a weather state. For example, Mars is red and must therefore be hot and dry. Prevalent in ancient Roman thought, astrologists used weather lore to teach commoners of the star and cloud formations and how they can be used to see the future.
Before the invention of temperature measuring devices, such as the mercury thermometer, it was difficult to gather predictive, numerical data. Therefore, communities used their surroundings to predict and explain the weather in upcoming days.
Weather folklore, therefore, refers to this mid-latitude region of daily variability.
When clouds look like black smoke
A wise man will put on his cloak
(Thick, moisture-laden storm clouds absorb sunlight. It gives them an appearance that somewhat resembles black smoke.)
Red sky at night:
A red sunset probably means dry weather the next day.
Red sky at night, shepherd’s delight.
Red sky in the morning, shepherd’s warning.
(In a common variation, “shepherd” is replaced by “sailor”.)
A red sky – in the morning or evening – is a result of high pressure air in the atmosphere trapping particles of dust or soot. Air molecules scatter the shorter blue wavelengths of sunlight, but particles of dust, soot and other aerosols scatter the longer red wave length of sunlight in a process called Rayleigh scattering. At sunrise and sunset, the sun is lower in the sky causing the sunlight to travel through more of the atmosphere so scattering more light. This effect is further enhanced when there are at least some high level clouds to reflect this light back to the ground.
When weather systems predominantly move from west to east, a red sky at night indicates that the high pressure air (and better weather) is westwards. In the morning the light is eastwards, and so a red sky then indicates the high pressure (and better weather) has already passed, and an area of low pressure is following behind. That is a scientific fact.
So, what does that have to do with March coming in like a lion or a lamb? Whether you believe in the myth or not is up to you but it sure is fun to think about.
Does a phrase that originated in England and Wales centuries ago even have relevance in a state in our northern part of the country?
Sandi Duncan, managing editor of that old standby, the Farmers’ Almanac, once said the lion/lamb saying is probably more wishful thinking than fact.
They do a lot of articles on weather sayings, but sometimes they are awfully true because they’ve been handed down by people who observe the weather, according to Duncan, from her office, in Lewiston.
“The ‘in like a lion’ one is based on the idea if it comes in bad it will go out nicely. People really do hope March is at the end of winter.”
The phrase is based on the beginning of the month being in winter and the end being close to spring.
But a weather phrase like ‘red sky at night, sailors’ delight’ is much more accurate. With that, there is scientific backing, but not with the lion saying.
In the last 16 years, March has come in with a roar eight times and gone out with a “baah” 10 times.
But March has also roared once at both ends of the month while braying four times at the beginning and end of the month during those years.
If you’re worried about amounts of snow and spring floods, March is the type of month where snow can come at any time. It doesn’t really matter how the month goes out or comes in, but what happens in between. Always remember, two thirds of the month is still winter.
March is a very variable month. It can be winter-like and cold with snow, while other times it can be mild and lots of snow melt like last year.
Alas, the interpretation is up to you.
There is one thing for certain. Only 27 days ‘til spring.
Who is the highest scoring defenseman in NHL history (goals and assists)?
WINSLOW – Sheila Marie (Joseph) (Rancourt) Bonenfant, 84, of Winslow, passed away at her home, on Wednesday, January 31, 2024, while recuperating from a devastating fall that broke her hip and elbow, and courageously battled cancer for 15 months. Sheila was born in Waterville, August 22, 1939, to Frank and Lucille (Poirior) Joseph.
She graduated from Waterville High School’s Class of 1957 and attended Thayer Hospital School of Medical Technology, in Waterville. She married her high school sweetheart, Alton Rancourt, in May 1959 and together they raised seven children.
Sheila worked as a histology technician at Thayer Hospital until the birth of her first child, when she left her job to raise her first five children. She re-entered the workforce part-time in 1968, at the old Waterville Osteopathic Hospital where she stayed for 16 years.
Between December 1975 and January 1980, Sheila lost both of her parents and her husband, leaving her to raise the six youngest of her seven children. Despite this unimaginable hardship, she persevered with what she referred to as “The Three Fs” – Faith, Family, and Friends.
Happier times visited her again when Sheila met Don Bonenfant (1931-2006) in 1983. They were married in 1985 whereupon they decided to relocate to Las Vegas, Nevada, where they spent the next ten years. While there, Sheila entered a second career as a realtor and, upon moving back to Maine in 1995, she became an associate broker with Plourde Real Estate, in Waterville, where she spent the last 22 years of her career before retiring at the age of 76.
After retirement, Sheila worked part-time at Mount Merici Academy, in Waterville as a childcare assistant, enjoying the children as much as they enjoyed her. She also volunteered at the Soup Kitchen, with American Veterans and at the Muskie Center, in Waterville, helping with the Meals on Wheels program.
Besides a big family, Sheila was blessed with many close friends who enriched her life, helped her through tough times, and spent many joyous moments with her.
She was predeceased by her parents; her first and second husbands; her older brother, Jerry Joseph, and most recently, her cousin, Laya Joseph, sister-in-law Diane Cates; and her beloved granddaughter Alexa Re Rancourt.
Sheila is survived by her seven children, Michael Rancourt, of Biddeford, Kathi Rancourt, of Holiday, Florida, Marc Rancourt, of Bangor, Celeste ( and Don) Clough, of Henderson, Nevada, Lisa (and Jerry) Dittrich, of Westbrook, Matthew Rancourt, of China, and John Rancourt, of Portland; eight grandchildren, Darryl “DJ” Vintinner, Jr. (and Amy Morrissette), of Oakland, Katie (Vintinner) Hewett, of Skowhegan, Courtney Rancourt, of Albion, Miranda Rancourt, of Bangor, Indigo (and Faith) Soncourt ,of New York City, New York, Max Sanborn, of China, and Mikayla Garcia, of Augusta; and eight great-grandchildren: Nicholas, Oliver, Cadence, Teagan, Molly, Quinn, Sparrow and JoJo; her younger brother, Richard (and Laurie) Joseph, of Holiday, Florida; her step-children and step-grandchildren through Don Bonenfant; as well as her in-laws; nieces, nephews; cousins.
There will be a Catholic Mass held at Notre Dame, 116 Silver St., in Waterville, on Saturday, May 18, at 11 a.m., immediately followed by a Celebration of Life in their event room.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Sheila’s name to one of her favorite local charities, the Muskie Center Meals on Wheels program, and the soup kitchen.
WATERVILLE – Charles “Charlie” P. Gagnon, 74, of Waterville, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Tuesday, February 6, 2024, at Oak Grove Center, in Waterville. He was born on July 22, 1949, in Waterville, to Alexander and Gertrude Gagnon.
He graduated from Waterville Senior High School in 1967 and went on to continue his studies at the University of Maine in Orono. After graduating from college, he began his 34-year career as a Licensed Social Worker with the State of Maine, Department of Health and Human Services. Throughout his 34-years with DHHS he held many positions including child protective work, daycare licensing, and interstate adoptions before retiring in 2008.
Charlie met the love of his life, Linda, in May 1977. Excited to start their life together, Charlie and Linda married on October 1, 1977. Together they built a family and life with their three children, Darrell, Michelle, Alex, and grandsons.
Charlie had a great passion for fishing and playing cards, especially bridge. In his retirement, he attended many bridge games and tournaments with his best friend, David Bourque. He also spent countless hours on his wood lot in Belgrade, cutting and hand-splitting firewood. He especially enjoyed many trips to his family-built camp, on Moosehead Lake, in Northeast Carry, either fishing or bird hunting with friends and family.
Charlie was predeceased by his parents, grandparents, several aunts and uncles.
He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Linda; and their children, Darrell Gagnon, of Vassalboro, daughter Michelle Fitts and her husband Scott, of China, and son Alex Gagnon and his wife Michelle, of Saco; five grandsons, Trent, Colby, Owen, Tucker, and Scottie; his sister, Rachel Ferguson and her husband David; brother Francis Gagnon and his wife Carol, and sister Elaine Veilleux and her husband James; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews.
A Mass and burial will be held in the spring.
Arrangements are under the care and direction of Veilleux and Redington Funeral Home.
WATERVILLE – Dorothy A. Fisher, 63, passed away unexpectedly Tuesday, February 6, 2024.
Dori loved her dogs and working for the Humane Society Waterville Area. She also enjoyed driving the big 18-wheelers traveling all over the country taking her special four-legged fur baby Gert with her. Dori will be greatly missed by everyone who knew her and loved her.
She was predeceased by her father Douglas E. Fisher Sr.; brother Douglas E. Fisher II; grandmother Doris Morang; along with several other uncles.
She is survived by her son Kevin Emerson II and wife Heidi; granddaughter Ceira Emerson Moody; mother Shirley Morang Fisher; sister Debra Fisher; brothers Mark and Michael; nephews Josh and Justin Dunn, and Clay Michael Thibodeau; cousins Margo Morang-Kool, Craig Hall; lots of other nephews, nieces, and many friends.
There will be a celebration of life at a later date.
Please visit Dori’s memorial page at https://dsfuneral.com/obituaries/dorothy-fisher-2024 where condolences, photos, and special memories may be shared.
WATERVILLE – Phyllis Joan Chubbuck, 62, passed away on Thursday, February 8, 2024. Phyllis was born on July 12, 1961, daughter to Edward and Helen Chubbuck.
Phyllis worked as a CNA and enjoyed taking care of those in nursing homes and those with special needs. She loved Walking Dead, playing cards, Bingo, joking with others, and Snapchats with niece Inez.
She was predeceased by both her parents; grandparents Robert and Phyllis Lund; and sister Brenda Sterling.
Phyllis is survived by sisters Inez Dyer with husband John, Belinda Austin with husband Dana, and Laura Dill; brother Robert Chubbuck; longtime partner Darlene Robbins; five nephews and three nieces, one of which took exceptional care of her right till her last moments, Inez Gregor.
Please visit Phyllis’s memorial page at https://dsfuneral.com/obituaries/phyllis-chubbuck.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the family to help with funeral expenses through Dan and Scott’s Cremation and Funeral Services, 445 Waterville Rd., Skowhegan, ME 04976.
SHAWMUT – Roland Rancourt, 84, of Shawmut, passed away on Thursday, February 8, 2024. He was born on February 6, 1940, in Waterville, having recently celebrated his 84th birthday.
Roland was a loving husband, father and grandfather to his family. As a devout man, he was a communicant of Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, in Fairfield, and after its closing became a member of Corpus Christi Parish – Waterville/Winslow, and was involved in the church folk group for over 40 years playing guitar. Roland led a life dedicated to service, from his earlier years in the U.S. Air Force, to his volunteer work with the Elks, Knights of Columbus and within the community. As a skilled tinsmith, and handy-man, Roland used his skills working and volunteering to enrich the lives and homes of those around him. Roland worked at various roofing companies after his Air Force service as a tinsmith. He retired from Huhtamaki, in Waterville, then took a part time job as a handyman at the Chore Store.
In his travels to Myrtle Beach during the winters, both Roland and Kay became involved with the Habitat for Humanity Organization utilizing his exceptional skills as a tradesman to give back to the community. In his free time Roland enjoyed playing golf and was a member of the Natanis Golf League, in Vassalboro. His passion for golf led him and Kay to meet some fellow ‘snowbirds’ in Myrtle Beach who have become a second family to them both. When not golfing, you could find him tending to his bird feeders, and swinging on his chair in the front yard, admiring the neighborhood pets, always ready with a treat in hand. His easy-going manner and jokester personality made him a friend to everyone he met.
Roland is survived by his wife of 62 years, Kathleen (Frappier) Rancourt; and their four children, Terri Collier and husband Nathan Collier, Gregory Rancourt and wife Judy Rancourt, Amy St. Pierre and husband Matt St. Pierre, and Jodi Goodie and husband Matt Goodie; his grandchildren, Matthew, Christopher, Carson, Patricia and husband Cory, Noah, Carly, and Drake; and his sister Carol Huard and husband Robert Huard, of Winslow.
He was predeceased by his parents Joseph and Martha Rancourt; sister Patricia LaMontagne, and brothers Donald, Carl, & Richard Rancourt.
A Catholic service will be held at the Corpus Christi Parish on Friday, February 23, 2024, at 10 a.m. After the service, a reception will be held at St. John the Baptist Hall, in Winslow. A family burial service will be held in the spring.
Arrangements are entrusted to the compassionate care of Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, located at 107 Main Street, Fairfield. Memories of Roland can be shared, and an online register book can be signed by visiting http://www.lawrybrothers.com.
In lieu of flowers, Roland requests donations in support of the Waterville Area Habitat for Humanity, ATTN: Treasurer, P.O. Box 1972, Waterville ME 04903-1972.
VASSALBORO – Susan Evelyn Rowe, 65, passed away Friday,February 9, 2024, from complications from pancreatic cancer.
A Celebration of Life will be held on the first weekend in April. Family will update when plans are finalized.
Arrangements are under the direction and care of Aable Cremation Service, Waterville. A full obituary can be found at http://www.aablecremationservice.com.
WINSLOW – Rita M. Hebert passed away on February 10, 2024. Rita was born in Benton to John and Odilia (Pouliot) Hebert.
She graduated from Lawrence High School, in Fairfield, in 1949, and went on to Thomas College, in Waterville, where she learned the skills that would make her the backbone of the customer service office at Central Maine Power for over 36 years.
She was a dedicated member of Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, in Fairfield, where she was a lector, Eucharist minister, and acolyte.
Family was everything to Rita. She was always there when anyone needed her. She often remembered the fun she had at the dances with family and friends.
She was predeceased by parents’ John and Odilia Hebert; two brothers, Renee Hebert and Donald Hebert, three sisters, Sylvia Labbe, Antonette Rice and Yvette Hebert.
She is survived by her sister, Frances Plante, of Winslow; sister- in-law Rita (Price) Hebert, of Madison; several nieces and nephews; and several great-nieces and nephews.
A Mass of Christian burial was celebrated on Tuesday, February 20, 2024, at Notre Dame Catholic Church, on Silver Street, in Waterville. A private burial took place at St. Francis Cemetery, Grove Street, Waterville, Maine.
Arrangements are in the care of Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 107 Main St., Fairfield where memories may be shared, and an online register book signed by visiting http://www.lawrybrothers.com.
WATERVILLE – Margaret “Peggy” Pauline Denis, 70, passed away on Sunday, February 11, 2024. She was born in Waterville on July 5, 1953, the daughter of Dominique and Jeannette (Laflamme) Boulette.
She grew up in the north end of Waterville and graduated from Waterville Senior High School.
Margaret worked for First National/ Shop ‘n’ Save and Colby College, in Waterville, for the dining services. She truly loved her Colby students.
Margaret adored spending time with her family and friends enjoying the many gatherings, watching TV, dancing, singing playing cribbage and camping at Birches Lakeside Campground. She loved the beautiful sunshine on her face any chance she could get.
She adored supporting her children and grandchildren at their sporting and dance events. She was their #1 fan. No matter the pain and suffering she endured she had a bright smile on her face through it all.
Margaret was predeceased by her parents Dominique and Jeannette Boulette; the love of her life Michael Denis; and best friend Jeanie Scripture.
Margaret will be remembered by her daughter Melissa Denis; son Michael Denis Jr.; grandchildren Cameron and Alice Denis; brother Paul Boulette and companion Elaine; sisters Melina Boulette, Lisa Ibbitson and husband Paul; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
A funeral was held on Wednesday, February 21, at Notre Dame Church, in Waterville. A celebration of her life will be held Saturday, March 16, at 1 p.m., at the MacCrillis-Rousseau VFW, in Winslow.
Arrangements are entrusted to the compassionate care of Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, located at 107 Main Street, Fairfield. Memories of Margaret can be shared, and an online register book can be signed by visiting http://www.lawrybrothers.com.
VASSALBORO – Joseph John Suga Jr., 84, passed away on Tuesday, February 13, 2024. He was born in 1939, a son of Joseph J. Suga Sr. and Mary Ann (DiOrio) Suga.
Growing up on a farm, Joe learned at an early age the value of working hard. He graduated from Erskine Academy, in South China, and went on to earn an associate degree from the University of Maine at Orono. Following school, he worked for a number of years at Sears-Roebuck as a customer relations manager. He then proudly served his country during the Vietnam era as a member of the U.S. Army. He reached a level of E7 before going to OCS (Officer Candidate School) and being commissioned as a second lieutenant.
Throughout his life, Joe has been employed by the state of Maine in multiple departments as a personnel manager. In addition, he was a master electrician, working for himself for many years. A hard worker, Joe was a productive man and could work circles around younger generations. For 29 years, Joe also owned and operated Suga Country Products alongside his wife Adele, in Vassalboro.
A true Mainer, Joe loved the outdoors; whether he was hunting, fishing, raising hay or cutting firewood, he was a true steward of the land. Some of his favorite memories include spending time at camp up north with friends and family.
Joe was predeceased by his parents; and his brother, Richard Suga.
Joseph is survived by his wife of 39 years, Adele (Hodgkins) Suga, of Vassalboro; his son, Ryan Suga (Nicole Durkee), of Sebago; his nephews, Dana Suga (Patty) and Richard Suga Jr., both of Vassalboro; his niece, Nancy Sanborn, of Pownal; and his stepchildren, MaryKate Friend (Will), of Winslow, and Jennifer Proffitt (Jay), of Austin, Texas.
A funeral was held on Saturday, February 17, 2024, at Plummer Funeral Home, 983 Ridge Rd., Windsor, ME 04363 .
Interment will take place in the spring at Cross Hill Cemetery, in Vassalboro. Condolences, stories, and photos may be shared by visiting http://www.plummerfh.com.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Joe’s name may be made to Maine Homeless Veterans Alliance, 907 Ossipee Trail West, Steep Falls, ME 04085.
WINSLOW – Carole (Cox) Sanders, 73, passed away peacefully onWednesday, February 14, 2024, at the Alfond Center for Health, in Augusta, following a short but hard-fought battle with respiratory illness. She was a resident at Summer Court, in Winslow.
Carole was a loving wife, mother, sister, aunt, and friend to many. She was a dedicated public servant, advocate for public education, and an avid and skilled golfer, which became her true passion in her retirement.
She grew up in North Monmouth and raised her family in Pittston, where she was first an active member of the PTA and then elected as a member of the MSAD #11 school board, on which she served for a decade, including being elected by her peers to serve as chairman for several years.
She enjoyed time with friends in the Pittston Library Association. She worked for the state of Maine Bureau of Banking for over 20 years, retiring in 2004 and relocating to Brickett Point, on East Pond, in Oakland, where she enjoyed relaxing by the water and kayaking.
Carole was a dedicated and supportive friend and neighbor, who was always available to help anyone in need in whatever way she could. She did not hesitate to become a caretaker for her mother, Lucille, and mother-in-law Barbara when they needed full-time support at the end of their lives.
For over 30 years, Carole brought together her siblings and their many children for the Cox family Thanksgiving, hosting 25-plus guests annually. She was an active member of Waterville Country Club, formerly serving as president and currently as treasurer of the Women’s Golf Association. For the last several years, Carole and Mike enjoyed spending part of their winters on Hilton Head Island, in South Carolina, where she could spend even more time enjoying golf.
She is survived by her husband of 42 years, Michael Sanders; her son, Eric Sanders; and daughter, Lynn Sanders and her husband Jim Morey; her sister, Shirley Cox Foster; and brother, Linwood Cox; brothers-in-law Myron Jacobsen, Mark and Jeffery Sanders, significant other Wanda Ingham; and many nieces, nephews, and loved ones.
She was predeceased by her parents Walter Cox and Lucille Putnam Cox; siblings Sally Phaneuf, Norma Fides, Richard Cox, Clifford Cox, Arlene Jacobsen, Kenneth Cox; and in-laws Richard Foster and Louise MacDonald Cox.
A celebration of Carole’s life will be held this spring, with details to be determined, and shared by her family.
Cremation arrangements are by Dan and Scott Adams Cremation and Funeral Services. Please visit Carole’s memorial page at https://dsfuneral.com/obituaries/carole-sanders where condolences, photos, and special memories may be shared.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Carole’s memory can be made to the Good Shepherd Food Bank of Maine, Good Shepherd Food Bank | Hunger Relief | Maine Food Bank (gsfb.org).
CLINTON – Theresa Vola (Proctor) Whittaker, 80, passed away at home, in Clinton, on Wednesday, February 14, 2024. She was born in Waterville on June 9, 1943, the daughter of Ray and Vella (Brown) Proctor.
She attended school in Clinton and graduated from Clinton High School on June 8, 1961.
She worked at Ski Land Woolen Mill, in Clinton,, and then Keyes Fibre Company (now Huhtamaki), in Waterville, retiring after 36 years of dedicated service.
Theresa could always be seen outside maintaining her beautifully decorated yard in summer or shoveling snow in winter. Any friends or family going to the post office could be assured of Theresa hollering hello from across the street. She could be zany, wild, and unpredictable, but she also loved deeply and cared passionately for all those in her orbit. She was fiercely devoted to her family, friends, and her fur grandbabies.
Theresa loved a “quarter dollar deal” and never missed a good yard sale, dragging husband Butch around at all hours of the night, taking friends and family along for the ride, or bringing them back treasures from her own yard sale adventures.
She was predeceased by one son, Allen Rex Whittaker; her parents Ray and Vela (Brown) Proctor; two brothers, Perry and Ray Jr.; and nieces Debbie Gerow and Vanessa Wishart.
Theresa is survived by her husband of 62 years, Myron Butch Whittaker; son, Kevine and wife Kelly, of Clinton; daughter, Kim Holt, of Clinton; her grandson, John T. Holt, Jr. and companion Sam Vanhout, of Fairfield; and too many family members to list – you know who you are.
A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, March 23, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., upstairs at the Elks Lodge, Industrial Street, in Waterville.
Please visit Theresa’s memorial page at https://dsfuneral.com/obituaries/theresa-whittaker where condolences, photos, and special memories may be shared.
FAIRFIELD – Earle “Pete” Cooper, 83, passed away on Thursday, February 8, 2024, in Fairfield.
Full obituary and an online guest book is available by visiting http://www.lawrybrothers.com. Arrangements are entrusted to the compassionate care of Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 107 Main Street, Fairfield
CLINTON – Patricia A. Page, 74, passed away on Wednesday, February 7, 2024, following a long illness. Pat was born on October 21, 1949, in Akron, Ohio.
She graduated from Lawrence High School, in Fairfield, in 1968. She was employed for many years as a kitchen designer at Fairfield Lumber Company.
Pat is survived by her husband Keith Page; her mom Sherlie Thayer; sons Ken (Angel) Richards and Justin (Crystal) Richards; her brother Terry (Kim) Thayer; and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
She was predeceased by her brother Buddy Thayer and her dad Ira Thayer Jr.
A graveside service will be held in the spring.
Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at Directcremationofmaine.com.
Vassalboro Community School (contributed photo)
Vassalboro school board members got an introduction to some small pieces of the 2024-25 school budget at their Feb. 13 meeting. There will be more budget discussion at future meetings.
The Feb. 13 agenda included presentations from:
— Finance director Paula Pooler on three accounts, a $500 one that will remain the same next year as this year and two that are slated to be reduced by around $8,000, total, in 2024-25;
— Transportation director Ashley Pooler, whose presentation sparked a discussion of whether to apply to the state for a new school bus for next year (the preliminary answer is yes); and
— Technology director Will Backman, who explained a proposed $8,000 increase in the technology budget.
Another minor budget issue that generated discussion was school board members’ compensation. They currently receive $40 per meeting, a figure Superintendent Alan Pfeiffer said (and, from the audience, select board member Michael Poulin agreed) is less than other area school or select board members get.
Board members want to think about whether to propose an increase, so a decision was postponed.
Future meetings will deal with larger budget figures. This year’s Vassalboro school budget, as approved by voters at the 2023 town meeting, totals a little over $9 million.
Paula Pooler said spending remains on track, and the lunch program, which ran a deficit for some years, is holding its own. Pfeiffer said there are planned kitchen upgrades at Vassalboro Community School, now that the lunch program can support them.
After another discussion of the day care program Jennifer Lizotte operates at VCS, board members agreed to consider extending the lease for more than a year at a time, so Lizotte can make long-range plans with confidence. The topic will be on the agenda for the March school board meeting, scheduled for 6 p.m. Tuesday, March 19.
by The Town Line staffWindsor Select Board members in attendance, Chester Barnes Jr. was absent, unanimously approved the town of Windsor’s building codes, 4-0, at their meeting on January 30, 2024. Sections of the codes the select board had specific questions about were reviewed in depth. It was also noted that yearly reviews of ordinances will be done as needed.
The board also voted to accept and sign the assessor’s abatement for Samuel A. Newcombe in the amount of $163.85 as recommended by C. Vern Ziegler, Windsor’s assessor’s agent. They also unanimously approved the supplemental tax warrant to Double Eagle Properties LLC, in the amount of $361.05.
Public Works Director Keith Hall reported that truck #6 is back in service, for now. He also stated the 2016 International is still the next truck to be replaced in the public works fleet. In the meantime, McGee covered the extra hours while the truck was out of service. Town Manager Theresa Haskell noted that 40 hours of addition to McGee’s contracted hours were used for roads.
Hall went on to report the transfer station is now fully staffed, and they have also hired a fill-in attendant to help when needed.
Haskell then reported the Windsor Volunteer Fire Department would like to use the MMA Grant to purchase an ice rescue alive sled. This would be for cold water rescue. The grant would cover 70 percent of the slad, and the WVFD would cover the other 30 percent. The board approved it unanimously.
Haskell informed the board the town has received the stabilization refund from the state. Windsor received $14,505.16. The town received about 56 percent of the stabilization refund expected due to a shortage. The state anticipates receiving more funds and get more refunds to the towns in the spring.
Haskell reported switching from TRIO SQL to TRIO WEB would be very costly. She has again looked at the price to make the switch and from a few years ago, the price has almost tripled. She has also been looking into the possibility of using TRIO as the town’s back-up instead of using the current back-up server. Haskell will possibly be looking for new IT options and further review of TRIO options.
Haskell noted that Dirigo Assessing Group is ready to go, and take over for Ziegler as the town’s assessor’s agent. She gave some more background on the group and the employees, and what the working hours and days would be. The select board approved $825 per day for 30 days, one in office day per week, and one remote day per week.
Haskell reported that some towns have come up with a counter offer for Delta Ambulance of $20 per capita, even though Delta was looking for $25 per capita. More information will be forthcoming.
Haskell said work on the 2024-25 municipal budget is coming along, and the first meeting was scheduled for February 6.
Adrian Prindle, a resident, came before the select board with an interest in becoming a conservation committee member. After giving a background of himself, the board unanimously approved his appointment, effective immediately, and running through June 2024.
The next select board meeting was scheduled for February 13.
by Mary GrowAt their Feb. 13 meeting, China planning board members heard preliminary plans for a community solar farm in a gravel pit off Windsor Road (Route 32 South) and, as expected, denied an application to convert a building on China Village’s Main Street to apartments.
The solar development is proposed by Perennial Sand Pit Solar, of Hallowell. The application was prepared by Atlantic Resource Consultants, of Freeport. Nichols Lacasse, from Perennial, and Andrew Johnston, from Atlantic, explained the project.
The 3,442 solar panels will be inside an existing gravel pit on the west side of Route 32 South, at least 800 feet from the nearest residence and shielded from public view by the pit walls.
Like other area solar installations, the panels will be inside a seven-foot-high chain-link fence, “wildlife-friendly” (which means a gap at the bottom sized to admit small animals, but not children, Johnston explained).
Access will be over the existing Pit Road. The 20-foot-wide entrance gate will be locked, with a Knox box to allow emergency personnel admission if needed.
The installation will not include water or a septic system. After construction is done, there will be little traffic, little noise and no lights, solid waste, odors, hazardous materials or other neighborhood disturbances.
Because the project is a community solar farm, local residents will be invited to buy in. Those who do will slightly reduce their monthly electric bills.
Planning board chairman Toni Wall listed other information applicants need to provide. If it is added in time for review at the Feb. 27 board meeting, she said the board could vote the application complete that evening and schedule a public hearing for the first March meeting, which should be Tuesday evening, March 12.
The other application considered Feb. 13 was from Carrol White, to convert the former Grange Hall in China Village to a four-unit apartment building (see the Feb. 1 issue of The Town Line, p. 3). Planning board members found the application was complete and the project meets all ordinance criteria except lot size, for which White needs a variance from the China Board of Appeals.
The finding was expected. White intends to ask for a Board of Appeals meeting.
If the variance is granted and the project approved, China Village resident Daniel Coleman intends to carry it through, he and White told the board in January.
by Mary GrowChina transfer station committee members, including Palermo representative Robert Kurek, had an amicable discussion at their Feb. 13 meeting, even though one of the topics was whether Palermo residents will continue to have access to the China facility.
As Kurek, China Town Manager Rebecca Hapgood and committee members summarized the situation, the two towns are in the seventh year of a 17-year contract, written and approved by China town officials, that lets Palermo residents share the transfer station, provided that:
— Palermo pays China an $18,000 annual fee (with no adjustment for inflation);
— Palermo residents buy and use colored bags (the bag price is adjustable, and Hapgood and Kurek agreed on a formula in 2022), but they are not charged for tags, stickers or similar identifying devices; and
— Palermo and China residents pay the same fees for bulky waste, white goods, furniture and other items for which fees are charged.
Hapgood, alleging that Palermo residents have violated contract provisions, sent Palermo the required year’s notice to end the contract for cause. Palermo’s attorney replied in January; she disputed the alleged violations and said there is no cause.
Sitting side by side at the Feb. 13 meeting, Kurek and Hapgood sparred politely over the frequency and seriousness of violations and whether Palermo has done enough to track down offenders. Main complaints are Palermo residents’ refusal to use proper bags or pay fees. They have also been charged with lending their transfer station identification cards to people from other towns.
Kurek said Palermo officials track down reported violators. Hapgood said she and other China staff spend time chasing Palermo residents.
No one denied that China residents, too, sometimes violate transfer station rules and are rude to staff. Committee member James Hines suggested charging individuals with theft of services, instead of pursuing an issue between the two towns.
Are your stickers uncooperative?
China residents, is your new transfer station sticker on the bottom right corner of your windshield uncooperative? Wrinkles, crinkles, falls off?
You’re not alone.
At the Feb. 13 transfer station committee meeting, Director of Public Services Shawn Reed said he had the same problem, despite carefully following the instructions town office staff offered when he bought the sticker.
Reed said he ended up taping the sticker to a piece of cardboard and standing it in the correct corner. Town Manager Rebecca Hapgood said it’s okay to tape the sticker to the inside of the windshield, too.
Committee members suggested finding a new vendor who sells higher-quality stickers – if they don’t cost too much more.
Hapgood said she, Kurek and the two town attorneys have a meeting scheduled later this month.
The transfer station five-year plan for maintenance and improvements and the 2024-25 budget were the other main discussion topics.
Three items have been taken care of. Transfer station staffer Cheyenne “Cj” Houle said the new cover on the pre-crusher is installed and satisfactory (and paid for, Hapgood added). A recent $20,000 grant from the state Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) will improve the composting area and fund the soon to be installed solar-powered lights in the free for the taking building.
Committee chairman Christopher Baumann recommended more publicity for the information that not everything can be left at the free for the taking building without paying the fee that is charged for furniture, computers and electronics and other items.
Transfer station users are charged for items for which the town pays disposal fees, regardless of how saleable they appear. Things that can be recycled or otherwise gotten rid of for free, like books and glassware, can be left without charge.
Hapgood suggested people use another alternative, especially for unneeded furniture: leave it at the end of the driveway with a “Free” sign.
Water quality remains an ongoing transfer station issue. Houle and Director of Public Services Shawn Reed said the well water has an unpleasant odor.
Reed explained that the well was drilled through ancient trash, because no one realized the landfill originally started at Alder Park Road, before moving north to create the now-capped trash mountain.
The water had been tested and ruled safe to drink, but last fall, DEP testing found PFAS (Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) contamination. Further information on remedies is pending.
Staff members wash their hands and clean equipment with the well water; they do not drink it.
Baumann described the transfer station staff as very professional and very polite and said the facility is well run. Kurek called it an asset to China.
Committee members scheduled their next meeting for 9 a.m. Tuesday, March 12.
Wyatt Woodbury, 13, of Fairfield, introducing his soaps to Incense & Peppermints, in Waterville. (contributed photo)
Wyatt Woodbury, 13, of Fairfield, started making soap in the summer between fifth and sixth grade. He started with just a cold process kit from Brambleberry. Woodbury first wanted to make soap after watching the YouTube channel Royalty Soaps, which follows Katie Carson and her soap business of the same name.
After making that kit with his mom, Wyatt was hooked, and making sudsy creations every day. After many failed batches, he learned how to do it successfully, every time. Now, Wyatt has started branching out into other mediums such as sugar scrubs. When he’s not making soap, Wyatt is either reading, writing his first novel, cooking, running cross country or watching TV and movies. Visit Woody Soap Co., on Facebook, or make the trip to Incense & Peppermints, on Main St., in Waterville.
Young Wyatt’s business is a Maine made, teenage owned business. He’s now been making soap for about a year and a half. Wyatt says, “It has had its challenges and its successes, but it’s been a good teaching point in total. I’m excited to really flourish in the area and get to interact with a lot of business opportunities.”
Contributed photo
Front row, from left to right, Tiger Scout Greyson Malloy, Wolf Scout John Gray, and Webelos Scout Henry Gray. Back, Webelos Scout Anthony Malloy, Arrow of Light Scout William Vincent, Scoutmaster Christopher Santiago, and Selectmen Rick Denico. (photo by Chuck Mahaleris)
On the 114th anniversary of the Boy Scouts of America, the Vassalboro Board of Selectmen read a proclamation by Town Manager Aaron Miller recognizing the anniversary of Scouting on February 8 and also recognizing the service to the community performed by Scouts in both Cub Scout Pack #410 and Scout Troop #410.
“Whereas, the Scouts of Vassalboro have given service to the community through their participation in such worthy programs as the annual Scouting for Food Drive, Spring and Fall “Scouting for Food” Food Drives for Vassalboro Food Pantry, marched in Memorial and Veterans Day parades, participated with Vassalboro American Legion Post #126 for Flag Day Retirement Ceremony, volunteered to staff Blacksmith Shop for Vassalboro Historical Society, participated in Vassalboro Days and Duck Race, participated in Honor Flight Maine Welcome Home Ceremony at the Portland Jetport, completed Eagle Scout Project consisting of a Story Book on Hiking Path, volunteered at the Vassalboro Community School PTO Pancake with Santa, volunteered at Vassalboro Tree Lighting at the Mill and participated in the Wreaths Across America at the State of Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery, in Augusta, on Civic Center Drive,” read part of the proclamation.
“Based on Robert Baden-Powell’s international scouting movement, the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) was a remarkable institution that expanded rapidly following its introduction into America in 1910,” according to the Library of Congress. “Primary goals of the American movement were to help boys develop the skills, the knowledge, and the “character” required to better serve themselves and their country.” Since then, Scouting has expanded to include girls as members at both the Cub Pack and Scout Troop levels.
Selectman Rick Denico has a scouting background. He served as Scoutmaster of Troop #410, Kennebec Valley District chairman and member of the Pine Tree Council Executive Board. He encouraged the youth to get involved in their community and lend a hand as Scouting teaches.