OBITUARIES for Thursday, January 16, 2025

THOMAS J. MORIN

OAKLAND – Thomas J. Morin, 75, passed away on Christmas morning, Wednesday, December 25, 2024. Tom, otherwise known as “Tommy Mo,” was born in Brooklyn, New York, to Lionel and Florence Morin, on August 19, 1949.

He later moved to Maine and grew up on Whipple Street with five brothers and two sisters. As an Eagle Scout, Tom always came prepared for any situation….and he got into plenty of them over the years! He graduated from Winslow High School where he achieved excellence in wrestling at state level. He went on to attend Thomas College, in Waterville, and played a vital role on their inaugural men’s soccer team. During his college years he started dating Kathryn Gurney who quickly became the love of his life. Soon after college, they were married and brought two daughters into this world.

Tom successfully ran Midstate Motors, in Waterville, for over four decades guided by the mottos “never judge a book by it’s cover” and “let’s seal the deal.” His honesty, integrity, and hard-working spirit earned him the highest level of respect throughout Maine’s auto industry. Because of this spirit, instead of retiring after the sale of Midstate, he spent the next 10 years at Powers Auto, in Clinton, where he continued to do what he did best, “seal the deal.”

Tom was an avid hunter and shared this passion with daughter, Bethany, “Bet.” Each October you could find them on the dirt roads surrounding Spring Lake and beyond. Those who knew them well could catch them at lunchtime on the Spencer Stream Road next to the water enjoying a hot dog with a “Tommy Mo.” Each November, they would spend weekends deer hunting in Fairfield, Rangeley, and Eustis as two peas in a pod. The Fall of 2024 was Tom’s most successful hunting season ever as he went 10 for 10 shooting birds and won the annual Cy Eastlack Big Buck Contest with his name forever etched on the plaque for all to see.

Tom loved his nightly routine of sitting with Kathy next to the woodstove, listening to music, sharing a dance when that “special” song came along and his favorite drink, a rum and Coke beside his recliner.

Tom and Kathy traveled to South Africa on numerous occasions to visit his daughter, Stacie, her husband Nigel, and his grandchildren, Zoë and Regan.

Tom had a passion for the outdoors. He enjoyed golf and exploring dirt roads with Todd and “Bet” on weekends and when the sun began to fade, finding a local bar to toast the day’s adventure. He was genuinely loved by all who knew him and had a zest for life that truly made him “one of a kind.”

Over the years, Tom instilled a priority towards family first and during his last few days while at his home overlooking the lake, it was his three women who showed incredible compassion towards their hero by caring for him day and night until he passed over to the other side. He was so loved by his family and friends.

He is survived by his wife, Kathy, of 53 years; daughters Stacie and Bethany “Bet”, sons-in-law Nigel and Todd; grandchildren, Zoë, Regan, and Sage; brothers Father Frank, Dicky, Bobby, Billy, and Johnny; and sisters Ann and Mary; as well as numerous wonderful nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life will be planned during the Summer of 2025.

Please visit Tom’s memorial page at https://svremembrancecenter.com/obituaries/tom-morin-dec-2024 where condolences, photos, and special memories may be shared.

In lieu of flowers, we ask that you donate to the charity of your choice in Tommy’s name.

STANLEY J. McGRAY

SKOWHEGAN – Stanley J. McGray, 80, passed away on Christmas Day, Wednesday, December 25, 2024. Stan was born in Skowhegan on November 25, 1944, the son of Cecil T. and Jarvis O. (Kenney) McGray.

He received his education in Skowhegan and became extremely successful within the same community. After Stan was finished with school, he went to work at a local chicken farm, Arbor Acres Farm, where he quickly realized that he did not want to work for somebody else; he wanted to be his own boss. From there, Stan first took over Bean’s Taxi, in Skowhegan, in the early 1970s, later naming it Stan’s Taxi. After taking over the taxi company, he owned two gas stations in the community in the 1980s. In 1987, Stan began his biggest accomplishment, opening Stan’s French Fries, fulfilling his wish to “travel and not stay in one place all the time.” Doing so allowed for Stan to travel to his favorite fairs, beginning with Bangor State Fair which was his first ever stop. Annually, Stan attended the Houlton Agricultural Fair, the Skowhegan State Fair, the Dover-Foxcroft Fair, Springfield Fair, Blue Hill Fair, Clinton Fair, North New-Portland Fair, Farmington Fair, and ending each season at the Fryeburg Fair.

In 1999, Stan’s business was threatened by a fire at the Skowhegan Fairgrounds. Despite losing both of his French fry stands, a Chevy pickup truck, and a camper to the grandstand fires, Stan came back resilient and persevered, bringing his business back more successfully than ever before. Skowhegan State Fair was Stan’s hometown fair, being in the community of which he was proud and loved so thoroughly.

Stan was a proud member of the Skowhegan Lions Club and Skowhegan Elks Lodge. When Stan was not attending the fairs, he was busy in the community plowing snow in the winter for local businesses and doing anything he could to help them. He was an extremely active member of the community.

Toni was always fond of Stan even at a young age, and it was love at first sight for Toni. After being neighbors for many years, Stan and Toni spent 34 years together making incredible memories. Together they raised her daughter, and later their grandson, Joey. They spent many fair seasons together and went on many road trips to Daytona Beach, Florida, amongst many other incredible trips and memories.

He was predeceased by his parents; grandparents; aunt Bea and uncle Mike; cousin, Carolyn Bowring; and his brothers Charles McGray and George Kelley.

Stan is survived by his partner of 34 years, Toni Godin; stepdaughter, Melissa Godin; grandsons Joseph S. Godin with his wife Kaylee Godin, Matthew Godin, and Jonathan Godin; sister, Rosemarie Crockett with her partner Bill; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

There will be a memorial service at the Skowhegan Federated Church, on Saturday January 18, 2025, at 11 a.m. There will be a celebration of life to follow the service at the Tewksbury Hall behind the church, this will be a potluck event.

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

JOAN DORE

WATERVILLE – Joan (Maheu) Dore, 88, passed away peacefully at Lakewood Continuing Care, in Waterville, on Thursday, December 26, 2024. Joan was born in Waterville, the daughter of Abel and Jeannette (Daigle) Maheu, on March 14, 1936.

She attended Mount Merici Academy, in Waterville, and graduated in 1953. Joan met the love of her life, John Dore, and married in August 1958. They spent 64 years together until John’s passing in 2023.

Joan worked for many years at the Federal Trust Company, now Camden National Bank, in Waterville. After her retirement, she volunteered at the Corpus Christi Parish office, in Waterville/Winslow, and the soup kitchen and was a member of Rosary Sodality.

After retiring, Joan and John spent many winters in Myrtle Beach, where they enjoyed the company of many friends. Joan also enjoyed knitting, quilting, and Beanie Baby hunting. Joan’s faith and family were incredibly important to her, and this showed in how she lived her life.

Joan was predeceased by her parents, her husband John, her brothers Donald Maheu and wife Lorraine, James Maheu and wife Francine, her sisters-in-law Lorraine Cyr and husband Ray, and Christine Wood and husband Jack.

She is survived by her children, Kathleen Lobene and husband John, Kevin Dore and wife Rumi, David Dore and wife Julie; grandchildren, Andrea Lobene and husband Jacob Wert, Bryan Dore and wife Jamie, and Brianna Dore; great-grandchildren, Benjamin and Cameron Dore, and many nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, January 23, 2025, at 10 a.m., at Notre Dame Catholic Church, 116 Silver Street, Waterville. A light luncheon will follow. A burial will be held at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, in Waterville, in the spring.

Arrangements are under the direction and care of Gallant Funeral Home, 10 Elm Street, Waterville.

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

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Mount Merici Academy, 152 Western Avenue, Waterville, ME 04901.

LARRY M. HONEA

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

Larry grew up in Fayetteville, Tennessee, and was a graduate of Central High School in the class of 1974. When a job brought Larry to Maine, he met the love of his life, Charlene Gracie and the two were married on October 21, 1989. They settled on Shuman Road, in Windsor, and became parents to a daughter, Kaitlyn.

Although Larry held many jobs over the years, he primarily worked as a carpenter, and operated his own business, Quality Carpentry. His skill led him to work on many local homes, businesses and municipal buildings, as well as work out of state. Larry’s last job was working as the lead locksmith for the Maine Military Bureau, in Augusta.

Larry was an outdoorsman who enjoyed fishing on China Lake, boating, hunting, four-wheeling and watching NASCAR. A skilled carpenter, Larry was known for his woodworking expertise, crafting many creative pieces over the years. Larry made many wonderful memories with his family; in October he was proud to have fulfilled his dream of walking Kaitlyn down the isle and dancing with her at her wedding. Larry will be remembered as a loving family man who enjoyed the simple things in life.

He was predeceased by his parents, and his wife, Charlene.

Larry is survived by his daughter, Kaitlyn (Honea) Socquet and her husband, Nick; his sister, Debbie Sydnes and her husband Jimmy; his brother, Kenneth Honea and his wife Patsy; brother-in-law, George E. Gracie Jr., and his wife Barbara; nieces and nephews, Amy, Joey and Chad Sydnes, and Adam Honea and his wife Kelley and Alison Ramsey and her husband Jason.

A memorial visitation was held on Saturday January 11, 2025, from 2 to 4 p.m., at Plummer Funeral Home, 983 Ridge Rd., Windsor, ME 04363.

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

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to MaineGeneral Health, memo line: Cancer Center, Larry Honea, and mail to: Office of Philanthropy, P.O. Box 828, Waterville, ME 04903.

CHARLES L. QUIMBY

ALBION – Charles Lawrence Quimby, 62, of Albion, passed away on Monday, December 30, 2024, in Augusta. Born on February 27, 1962, Charles was the cream of the crop in both life and his profession as a self-employed dairy farmer.

With a laugh that could be heard over the mooing of cows, Charles was the unofficial “Mayor” of Oak Grove Center, pollinating every conversation with joy and a dash of mischief. He was the life of every barn dance and the soul of every field, a social butterfly who could charm even the most stubborn of goats.

After sprouting his roots at Lawrence High School, in Fairfield, and blossoming at the University of Maine, Orono, Charles devoted his life to the family farm, where he proved that he could, in fact, have his cake and eat it too – if that cake was made of hay and hard work.

Surviving Charles is his spouse, Gail Quimby; his children, Lawrence (Heather), Zachary (Ashley), Chelsea (Ryan), and Marsha; grandchildren, Austin, Brooke, Ryleigh, and Reagan; his sisters, Carla (Howard) and Carrie (David), and his father, Carroll.

He was predeceased by his mother, Charlene Quimby; brother, Craig; and son, Eben.

A Celebration of Life was held at Kennebec Valley Baptist Church, on Friday, January 3, 2025, at 91 Marston Road, Waterville, ME 04901. A springtime graveside service at Puddledock Cemetery will follow.

Veilleux-Redington-Lawry Funeral Home, in Waterville, is in charge of the arrangements.

JUDITH A. LIBBY

SKOWHEGAN – Judith Ann Libby, 77, unexpectedly passed away in her sleep on Wednesday, January 1, 2025. Judith was born on June 5, 1947, in Skowhegan, daughter to James E. and Patricia E. (Bishop) Watts.

She attended grade school in Skowhegan and Norridgewock, graduating high school from Kents Hill Preparatory School, class of 1965. Later she attended Thayer School of Radiology, in Waterville, and graduated as a registered radiological technician in 1972. She was employed at Redington-Fairview General Hospital, in Skowhegan, as a radiological technician and pharmacy technician, and ultimately retired from Northern Eye Care, PA, as an insurance billing specialist in 2012.

Judith married the love of her life, James A. Libby, on February 12, 1971. Together they raised three children. Judith treasured her family most. She was a Brownie troop leader in Norridgewock, volunteered for the Somerset Animal Shelter, enjoyed NASCAR, traveling, reading, and her cats.

She was predeceased by both her parents, her sister Linda Watts, her brother Walter Watts and his wife Dale of Vassalboro, and her brother-in-law Earl Culleton.

Judith is survived by her husband, James A. Libby; children, Kimberly A. Fortini, Michael S. Libby and his wife Vicki, and Mark B. Libby and his wife Julie; grandchildren, Matthew Hodgdon, Melissa Fortini, Breanna Libby, Jonathon Libby, Tristan Libby, Haley Libby, Garrett Libby, and Emily Libby; two great-grandchildren; siblings Diane Culleton, of Skowhegan, Ryan Watts and his wife Karen, of Arizona, Ruth Cyr and her husband David,of Lewiston, and Helen Smith, of Arizona; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A graveside service at the VA Memorial Cemetery will be scheduled in the spring.

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

Donations may be made in Judith’s memory to the Somerset Animal Shelter, located at 123 Middle Road, in Skowhegan.

RAYMOND L. MILHOUS

WATERVILLE – Raymond Lee Milhous, 87, son of William Carlton and Alice Harvey Milhous, passed away on Sunday, December 29, 2024. He was born in Oceanside, California, on August 24, 1937. His fraternal twin Kenneth was born minutes before him.

Their mother died five years later, and two years later they were added to the family of their Uncle Francis and Aunt Elsie Harvey – who already had three children – and moved to the East. He met his wife Ruth Hoeldtke in eighth grade when the Harvey family moved to Albany, New York.

Raymond graduated from Lafayette College in 1957, and from the University of Pennsylvania College of Medicine in 1961. He married Ruth Hoeldtke June 23, 1962, and the two then spent two years in the Democratic Republic of the Congo practicing medicine in a Mennonite Hospital, where their first child was born.

Upon their return to the United States, Raymond took a residency in the medical specialty of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. He worked as a physician at the University of Vermont College of Medicine from 1968 to 2002. He and Ruth were blessed with three additional children and enjoyed 62 years of marriage. Over the 50 years of his life in Vermont, their home was a place of hospitality, welcoming people for meals, Bible study, prayer, and housing for short and long stays. He was always involved in church life, community outreach, and worshipped in a number of different Christian traditions through his life. He and his wife moved to Maine in 2019 in order to be near their elder daughter.

He was predeceased by two sisters, Virginia Milhous Hughey and Ann Harvey Bigelow.

He is survived by his wife Ruth; daughters Sharon (Charles) Conover and Joy (Timothy) Yankey; sons Stephen (Kristi) and Peter (Juliet) Milhous; six grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren; brothers Kenneth Milhous and Bruce Harvey; sister Doris Harvey Dickerson.

A funeral service for Raymond will take place Friday afternoon, January 17, at 2 p.m., at the Lutheran Church of the Resurrection, 36 Cool Street, in Waterville. A reception and time of sharing memories will follow in the fellowship hall. All are welcome.

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

JUDITH S. MARTIN

JEFFERSON – Judi Spears Toman Martin, 71, of Jefferson, passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 11, 2025. Born on July 12, 1953, Judi was a graduate of Hall-Dale High School in 1971. She pursued a career in healthcare, graduating from Augusta General Hospital’s School of Radiologic Technology in 1973. Judi devoted 39 years of her life to working in Radiation Oncology at the Harold Alfond Cancer Care Center at Maine General Medical Center, where she was a respected member of the medical community.

A committed member of the First Baptist Church of Jefferson, Judi was also involved in many local organizations, serving as the Secretary for the Jefferson Food Pantry, and known as the “can lady” and as the Treasurer for Boy Scout Troop #216 as “Uncle Judi” of Jefferson for several years. She was an active member of the American Society of Radiologic Technologists and took pride in supporting her community.

Judi’s passions included bowling, traveling, shopping with her granddaughter Tally, birdwatching, cooking, gardening, and camping and fishing with her grandchildren. She enjoyed relaxing on her screened porch with friends and spent many happy hours on road trips to casinos and Florida with her husband. Above all, Judi treasured time spent with her family and friends, traveling, and celebrating life’s moments.

Judi will be remembered for her kindness, generosity, and the deep love she held for her family and friends. Her presence will be missed by all who knew her.

Judi was predeceased by her parents, Merville “Curley” Spears and Shirley Decoster Spears; her first loving husband and father of her children, Patrick A. Toman; her brother, William Spears, and her goddaughter Amanda Knight.

She is survived by her husband of 21 years, Raymond Martin; son Daryn Toman and his companion Bobbi Barrows; daughter Brea Hatch and her husband Dan; stepchildren Susan Blagdon and her husband John, Michelle Condon and her husband Ben, and Kristen Horak and her husband Daryl; grandchildren Tally Benner and her companion Branden Lee, Drake Toman and his companion Haylee Gagnon, Brandon Condon and his wife Rachel, Bradley Condon and his companion Jenna Libby, Josh Zayac and his wife Mackenzie, Tyler Leet and his wife Roxanne, and Alex Leet; great-grand-children George, Kaylee, Jackson, Charlotte, Everett, and the anticipated Everett Lee, due in March 2025; several nieces and nephews in Connecticut and Maine.

A memorial service will be held on Monday, January 20, 2025, at 11 a.m., at Plummer Funeral Home, 16 Pleasant St., Augusta, ME 04330.

In lieu of flowers a donation in Judi’s name may be made to the Jefferson Area Community Food Pantry, PO Box 208, Jefferson, ME 04348. Condolences, stories and photos may be shared by visiting www.plummerfh.com.

Others Departed

IRENE B. DUBOIS

SKOWHEGAN – Irene “Susan” Bradford Dubois, 77, passed away very early, Tuesday, November 12, 2024, at her home, in Skowhegan. She was born December 29, 1946, in Norridgewock, to Albion and Edwina Adams.

She helped with her granddaughters’ cheerleading team. She also was known for the strawberries and fiddleheads that she picked and sold for many years. For years she made many beautiful wreaths at Christmas time.

She is survived by husband Wess Dubois; son Richard Bradford; daughter Cathy Jo Cinanni, of Portland; granddaughters, Sasha Bradford, Sonya Fox; and great-grandson Gage Fox.

She was predeceased by her parents, husband Bruce Bradford, brother Arthur Adams, grandmothers, Lilla Rogers and Mary Adams.

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

by Mary Grow

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

Brea Willette, speaking for the business at 134 Brann Road, described it as an expanded farm market, selling products from the family farm and other local farms. Retail sales contribute needed income to help small farmers keep farming, she said.

The 10-by-24-foot building housing the market is already in place, and Willette said there is ample off-road parking. No water is planned.

Lighting will consist of two lights “like porch lights” by the door and one more over the deer hanger, where hunters can weigh deer during hunting season. Neighbors are not close, and trees screen them from the business.

Information attached to the application explains that the farm has been in the family for four generations. The store sells dairy products, meat, bread and local grains, soap and other products.

The “Trading Post” in the name means “if you don’t have money, bring us something you do have,” the document explains. Some people provided labor in return for food: “They learned something new and we got some stuff done.”

The farm sponsors occasional farming-related events, without music, Willette told planning board members.

Several neighbors attended the Jan. 7 meeting. When board chairman Virginia Brackett said to Willette, “Sounds like you’re good neighbors,” some nodded.

Willette replied, “We try to be.”

The unanimous board approval came with three conditions:

R & L Mercantile must designate a handicapped parking space (Willette said a handicapped ramp is already being planned);
Public works director Brian Lajoie must be asked to make sure there is adequate sight distance for vehicles turning out of the parking lot; and
When events are held, no vehicles will be parked on Brann Road.

A side issue mentioned briefly was the farm’s ducks and geese that wander onto Brann Road. The descriptive document with the application says, “Don’t worry, their coops are going up as we speak.”

The second Jan. 7 agenda item, continued review of the proposed Hidden Acres subdivision on Seaward Mills Road, took up most of the meeting, as board members wrestled with the town’s revised planning board ordinance.

They had reviewed a sketch plan at their Dec. 3, 2024, meeting (see the Dec. 12, 2024, issue of The Town Line, p. 2), and found one step omitted. They invited a final sketch plan and a preliminary plan for Jan. 7, to be followed by a final plan in February. Surveyor Adam Ellis and landowner Jeremy Allen presented the preliminary plan, with supporting documents.

The 50-page town subdivision ordinance has a long list of requirements. One says if the subdivision has more than five lots (Allen requests seven) and is in the watershed of a great pond (the land is in the Webber Pond watershed), the application needs to include a stormwater management plan that meets state phosphorus control standards, and a maintenance plan for the phosphorus control measures.

Allen protested that the land to be subdivided is nearly enough level so water will soak in, not run off. He and Ellis pointed out that all run-off will be onto neighboring properties or into the ditch along Seaward Mills Road.

Nonetheless, board members said, the requirement’s in the ordinance. They and Ellis proposed various ways to meet it; they suggested Ellis consult an expert; and they considered whether they had authority to waive the requirement.

The hour and a half discussion ended with Ellis agreeing to send a proposed solution in advance of the February meeting.

Board members then unanimously approved the preliminary application, subject to the additional information that will go into the final application.

The next Vassalboro Planning Board meeting is scheduled for Tuesday evening, Feb. 4, in the town office meeting room. Board members agreed by consensus to change the meeting time to 5:30 p.m., an hour earlier than in past months.

VASSALBORO: Action postponed on rate increase for large items at transfer station

by Mary Grow

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

By unanimous votes, board members:

Agreed that the state-required wage deduction to support the new paid family medical leave program will be split 50:50 between employees and the town; and
Agreed to buy new propane tanks for the town office and the Riverside Fire Station from M. A. Haskell, of China, the only bidder.

Board members also finished reviewing the town’s personnel policy, half of an agenda item that also calls for updating Vassalboro Recreation Committee bylaws. Town Manager Aaron Miller will have a revised personnel policy draft ready for their Jan. 23 meeting.

Select board members and transfer station manager Adam Daoust again considered whether to increase fees charged for some of the large items, like mattresses, that residents can dispose of at the transfer station. Board members postponed action.

From the audience, Douglas Phillips said the Vassalboro Historical Society has traditionally had transfer station fees waived. A year ago, he said, the select board renewed the waiver for one year.

The current board promptly and unanimously repeated the action.

The request for a handicapped parking spot at Hair Builders, a business on Oak Grove Road, first came up at the board’s Nov. 13, 2024, meeting, when Miller said he needed time for research:

After receiving guidance from the New England Americans with Disabilities Act Center, as well as legal advice, Miller recommends a “pretty simple” ordinance amendment.

The manager plans to have legally approved language ready for review at the board’s Jan. 23 meeting. Assuming acceptance, the mandatory public hearing could be held at the Feb. 6 board meeting.

Another previously-discussed issue is combining elections for the Vassalboro Sanitary District (VSD) board of trustees with municipal elections. At previous meetings, board members believed only voters living in the area VSD serves could vote for trustees.

On Jan. 9, however, Miller said VSD’s attorney said all town voters could vote for the trustees, just as they vote for select board members.

Board chairman Frederick “Rick” Denico, Jr., thought the limitation on voters was state law. If it is, he said, a town cannot broaden a state mandate.

Board members asked Miller to get another legal opinion.

Board member Chris French recommended increased funding for Vassalboro First Responders in the 2025-26 budget and future years, looking ahead to the time when the group would need a rescue vehicle.

Currently, members use their private vehicles; if transport is needed, Waterville-based Delta Ambulance responds. French is concerned about Delta’s long-term financial stability.

Board member Michael Poulin proposed amending Vassalboro’s Tax Increment Financing (TIF) policy to allow additional uses of TIF money. The TIF account is fed annually by taxes paid on the gas pipeline that runs through Vassalboro from Augusta to Winslow.

Vassalboro’s current TIF ordinance (found online under Documents) establishes a 9.5-acre TIF District along Route 201, where the natural gas pipeline runs, and along VSD lines, including a connection to Winslow. It limits major projects to the expansion of Vassalboro’s sewer system to connect with Winslow, which has been done, and “eventually” contributing to a phosphorus removal plan for China Lake, in collaboration with other groups.

Poulin recommended adding more projects with which TIF funds could assist, including work on the Webber Pond dam and the Mill Hill Road bridge replacement. Discussion will continue.

Miller reported he met with representatives of Maine Rivers and other groups working on the Webber Pond dam. They have funding for a major rebuilding planned for the summer of 2025, he said.

The current plan, being discussed with residents, requires closing the north end of Dam Road, near Webber Pond Road, from mid-July through September, rerouting traffic from Hannaford Hill Road over McQuarrie Road, Miller said. That way, large equipment, like an excavator and a crane, can work at the dam site.

The next regular Vassalboro select board meeting is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 23.

VASSALBORO: Erosion control cost estimate higher than expected

by Mary Grow

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

They agreed in December to improve buffering along the China Lake shoreline in East Vassalboro’s Monument Park, with the goals of increasing erosion control and providing an educational example of a buffer.

At the Jan. 8 meeting, commission member Steve Jones, owner of Vassalboro’s Fieldstone Gardens, presented a $3,084 cost estimate for about four dozen perennial plants. Commission Chairman Holly Weidner and member Matthew Pitcher pointed out other costs, like special mulch and ongoing maintenance.

Commission member Paul Mitnik urged planting trees instead, spaced far enough apart so they wouldn’t block views of the lake. They’d be less expensive and, he said, as effective.

Mitnik’s idea got more objections than support during a debate that ended with Weidner suggesting he talk with Jen Jesperson, the Ecological Instincts consultant who is advising on China Lake water quality issues.

In other business Jan. 8, commission members agreed they will not apply for a 2025 grant from the state program called Project Canopy to plant trees. The program paid for trees in the town’s new Eagle Park on Route 32 and Outlet Stream.

Pitcher said he does not have time to write a grant application this spring. Peggy Horner said the commission hasn’t chosen places to plant trees. Jones is still angry about some Project Canopy trees that were cut down last spring; he opposes asking for any more “till the town ‘fesses up.”

Project Canopy is a good program, they said, and if the town wants to apply, that’s fine.

Commission members agreed by consensus to partner with the Webber Pond Association as it seeks a grant to deal with blue-green algae, also known as cyanobacteria, in the lake water.

Wiedner said she had a request to support the grant application from Mary Schwanke, whom she later identified as lead biologist on the water monitoring and sampling team for the tri-watershed based management plan project that includes Webber Pond.

Commission members again expressed appreciation for the Vassalboro public works department’s help with Eagle Park landscaping. They need to discuss with Public Works Director Brian Lajoie and Town Manager Aaron Miller how much more work is planned – parts of the ground are still very rough, they said

Pitcher had talked with Rob Lemire, owner of Maine Adirondack Chairs, on Holman Day Road, about picnic tables. He reported Lemire is offering six-foot white cedar tables unfinished for $269, or with a natural finish for an additional $150.

Weidner thinks the to-be-constructed Eagle Park pavilion should have room for up to three tables. Commission members agreed they need to consult with Lajoie, for example about winter storage, and to see how their budget looks.

They had intended to discuss the commission’s 2025-26 budget request at the Jan. 8 meeting, but needed detailed updates on 2024 funding and expenditures first. Weidner intends to have more information at the next meeting, scheduled for 6:30 p.m., Wednesday, Feb. 12, in the town office meeting room.

China select board begins preparing for annual town meeting

by Mary Grow

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

China’s official town meeting, by state definition, is in November, when voters elect town officers by written ballot. The annual June meeting is usually referred to as the town business meeting.

Until Covid, voters assembled to discuss and vote on multiple articles, mostly dealing with expenditures, policies and procedures. Since Covid, the June meeting, too, has been by written ballot.

Town Manager Rebecca Hapgood shared a pre-meeting schedule at the board’s Jan. 13 meeting. It assumes a June 10 written-ballot vote, and select board members supported the assumption.

Their main reason is that more people vote when written ballots are used. Board chairman Wayne Chadwick and other members want lots of residents’ opinions.

Resident Sheldon Goodine spoke in favor of an open meeting. His view is that if most people don’t come, “those who do can run the town.”

Hapgood recommended that one June 10 article asks voters to repeal China’s quorum ordinance. She has received legal opinions that state law does not allow China to have such an ordinance. The ordinance, adopted before 1990, currently requires at least 100 registered voters be present to start an open meeting.

According to Hapgood’s schedule for this spring, the select board and budget committee will meet jointly Monday, Feb. 3, for an initial presentation on the proposed 2025-26 town budget. Select board members need to approve a final set of ballot questions at their April 7 meeting.

At the Jan. 13 meeting, board members appropriated funds and approved a committee to keep the proposed community garden project moving forward. At the request of James Hsiang and his wife, Judith Chute Hsiang, they allocated $200 from their contingency fund to pay for lumber for the raised beds, and transferred $1,033 left in the China for a Lifetime Committee account to garden funding.

They also revitalized the committee, appointing as its members both Hsiangs, Eric Austin, Saige Bird, Sandra Isaac, Marie Michaud, Karen Stankis and, as an advisory member, select board member Jeanne Marquis.

In other appointments, select board members made Bird a member of China’s recreation committee and Milton Dudley a planning board member.

Another expenditure approved Jan. 13 was $11,220 for Bryan Moore, of Pro Tree Service, Inc., of Vassalboro, to take down most of the Reading Tree in the China School Forest behind China Primary School, leaving a 30-foot stub. Storm damage has made the tree a potential liability for the town, Hapgood said.

Hsiang considered the price high and asked board members to seek another estimate. Chadwick explained the complexity of the project requires a crane. Moore’s estimate includes $4,350 for 10 hours work with a crane, at $435 an hour.

Hapgood said the $11,220 will come from the community forest reserve fund, which currently has about $34,000.

Broadband Committee chairman Robert O’Connor reported on an arrangement with Direct Communications, formerly Unitel, in Unity, and the Waldo Broadband Group that will result in a new fiber line running for 17 miles through China and offering a fiber broadband connection to 584 “locations.”

In return, China will contribute the already-approved $370,000 in TIF (Tax Increment Financing) money.

The bulk of the TIF money was to be spread over 10 years. Hapgood assured select board member Edwin Bailey that the fund can afford to spend it immediately.

O’Connor said this project is scheduled for the spring of 2025. It might be followed by a second phase that would improve broadband service throughout China, if a Direct Communications application for a state grant is successful.

As the Jan. 13 meeting ended, Hapgood reminded everyone that China municipal services will be closed Monday, Jan. 20, for the Martin Luther King, Jr., holiday.

Select board member Thomas Rumpf summarized town-wide events planned for China Ice Days, beginning Friday, Feb. 14, and running through Sunday, Feb. 16. The schedule will soon be publicized widely.

The next regular China select board meeting is scheduled for Monday evening, Jan. 27.

Emmett Appel elected for United States Senate Youth Program

Emmett Appel

The United States Senate Youth Program (USSYP) is pleased to announce that high school student Emmett Cook Appel will join Senator Susan M. Collins and Senator Angus S. King in representing Maine during the 63rd annual USSYP Washington Week, to be held March1-8, 2025. Emmett Appel, of Windsor, was selected from among the state’s top student leaders to be part of the 104 national student delegation that will attend meetings and briefings with senators, the president, a justice of the Supreme Court, leaders of cabinet agencies, and other officials throughout the week. Each delegate will also receive a $10,000 college scholarship for undergraduate study.

The USSYP was founded in 1962 by sons of William Randolph Hearst and the senate leadership of the day in response to the deep disiveness and national anxiety following the McCarthy era. They outlined a plan to encourage America’s most talented young people to consider public service as an important, life-long, and noble pursuit, sponsoring Senate Resolution 324, which passed unanimously. As stated in founding testimony, the program strives “to increase young Americans’ understanding of the interrelationships of the three branches of government, learn the caliber and responsibilities of federally elected and appointed officials, and emphasize the vital importance of democratic decision making not only for America but for people around the world.”

Eric Handley elected district scouting chairman

Eric Handley with his Eagle Scout sons Devon, left, and Jared. (photo by Chuck Mahaleris)

by Chuck Mahaleris

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

The Kennebec Valley District delivers the programs of Scouting to communities and youth in Kennebec, Lincoln, Knox, Somerset and Franklin counties. The district is one of four in Pine Tree Council which covers the southern and western half of Maine. At the end of 2024, Kennebec Valley District had 22 Scout Troops and 12 Cub Scout Packs made up of 194 Scouts and 232 Cub Scouts. Twelve youth in Kennebec Valley earned Scouting’s highest rank, the Eagle Scout award, in 2024 and 564 Merit Badges were earned by the Scouts.

“I’m happy to serve Kennebec Valley Scouting,” Handley said. “My approach will always be to place the Scouts first.” Handley, in his role as District chairman, will preside at district committee meetings and represent the district on the council executive board. He will oversee all subcommittees that help deliver and grow Scouting including membership, program (events/ training/ advancement/ camping), and fund development functions (including popcorn sales and Friends of Scouting). Handley, who is the Point of Sale IT manager for Aubuchon Company, had been serving as the District Commissioner prior to the annual meeting.

He began his Scouting career in 1972 when he joined Cub Scouts, in Gorham, New Hampshire, and followed that as a Scout, in Windsor, Vermont Troop #218. “My son Jared asked to join Cub Scouts as a Tiger the Spring of 2006. I became the Cub Master of Pack #401 in Spring of 2007, in Sidney, and stayed with the Pack until May 2018 when I became Scoutmaster of Troop #401,” Handley said. Handley has also served as a Unit Commissioner, on the Advancement Committee, Roundtable Commissioner, Camp Bomazeen Staff, and on the Kennebec Valley District Band. Handley said that his goals are to increase the visibility of Scouting in the local community and to increase membership by providing excellent programs to the youth in the district.

Santiago, who is the Director of Safety and Security, at Thomas College, in Waterville, said, ” I am truly honored and blessed to be nominated by my peers to this position of leadership within Scouting America. I will continue to develop scouts and their leadership skills, with a focus on living the Scout Oath and Scout Law; and I will work diligently to provide leadership and mentorship to my peers so that they may do the same.” He has been involved in Scouting since his son joined Cub Scouts, in Vassalboro Pack #410, serving as Den Leader and then Cubmaster. This was followed by Assistant Scoutmaster in Troop #410 when his son crossed over to the Scouts. He is still serving as Scoutmaster of Troop #410. At the same time, he has also served on and is still currently serving Scouting on the District Committee, as the District Duty to God Coordinator, as a Unit Commissioner and as the District Training co-chairman. The district commissioner leads the commissioner staff of the district, guiding and measuring the district’s unit service program. The Roundtable Commissioner also is part of the District Commissioner’s team. Santiago said his goals as District Commissioner are to provide quality support to Scouters, while ensuring that all units (Packs and Troops) within the district are delivering an excellent scouting program and experience.

The District Committee also selected Jamie Santiago, of Vassalboro, to serve as District Vice Chairman of Finance and Joseph Poulin, of Oakland, to serve as District vice chairman of Program. The position of District Vice Chair for Membership is currently vacant.

These elections took effect immediately following the close of the annual meeting.

From left to right, Jamie Santiago, Life Scout Arianna Allen, Tenderfoot Scout Christopher Santiago, Eagle Scout Eric Allen, and Christopher Santiago. The Allens are niece and nephew of Jamie and Christopher Santiago. (photo by Chuck Mahaleris)

Issue for January 9, 2025

Issue for January 9, 2025

Celebrating 36 years of local news

Stormwater solution highlights power of collaboration for China Lake

Aserious runoff problem that was dumping phosphorus-laden water into China Lake has been resolved, thanks to teamwork that saw private landowners, nonprofits, and government agencies joining forces with the goal of protecting the lake’s water quality… Submitted by Jennifer Syer

Town News

Judson Smith adjusting well at Maine School of Science & Mathematics

VASSALBORO – Vassalboro resident Judson Smith, 14, has no regrets about choosing the Maine School of Science and Mathematics (MSSM), in Limestone, as his high school…

Eugene Field retires as Vassalboro public works director

VASSALBORO – Back in the early ’80s, Frederick “Rick” Denico, Jr., reminisced, when his father, Frederick Denico Sr., was on the Vassalboro select board, he brought home the report that there was “a young kid working for the town” under the federal CETA (Comprehensive Employment and Training Act) program…

Leader of Main Street Skowhegan recognized at White House event

SKOWHEGAN — USDA Rural Development State Director Rhiannon Hampson joined U.S. Under Secretary for Rural Development Dr. Basil Gooden, in Washington, D.C. Together they recognized Kristina Cannon, President and CEO of Main Street Skowhegan, as a Rural Innovator…

Local Rotary Club wraps up busy year of community service

VASSALBORO — The Waterville Rotary Noon club has had a busy year of putting “Service above Self”. With the new Rotary year starting in July, the club has already completed several Community Outreach and assistance projects…

Legion Christmas stockings drive

VASSALBORO — The American Legion Post #126, in Vassalboro, thanks all the individuals and groups who donated items and volunteered to fill the stockings. Through their generosity 250 Christmas stockings and 20 Hanukkah dreidels were filled on December 9, 2024, and delivered December 12…

PHOTO: I see you!

WASHINGTON — Sarah Sanchez, of Washington, photographed this red fox well camouflaged in the woods…

Waterville Creates welcomes new board chairman and new board members

WATERVILLE — Waterville Creates announces the addition of two new members to the board of directors and a new board chairman stepping into the role…

Windsor Fair officers/trustees

WINDSOR — Windsor Fair officers for 2025 are Daniel Foster, president; William McFarland, first vice president; Rick Cummings, second vice president; Dennis “Frank” Reed, secretary; Jeffrey A. Tracy, treasurer…

Waterville/Winslow bridge closed until June

CENTRAL ME — Starting this past Monday, January 6, 2025, through June 20, 2025, the project will be closing the Ticonic bridge to all traffic for construction activities requiring access to the entire bridge. During this time, pedestrians will NOT be allowed to transit the bridge. Both pedestrians and vehicles will be required to follow the posted detour routes….

Skowhegan man named to ABMA federal legislative committee

SKOWHEGAN — The American Building Materials Alliance (ABMA) is proud to announce the appointment of Rod Wiles, Vice President of Human Resources at Hammond Lumber Company, as the chairman of the Federal Legislative Committee. With 38 years of experience at Hammond Lumber Company, Wiles brings exceptional industry expertise and a proven track record of leadership to this vital role…

LETTERS: Rebuttal to dad’s letter

from Holly Slason (Dunnellon, Florida) — This was my dad’s letter…advice to seniors. Readers deserve to know the truth. Please publish this as it is not fair to allow my dad to slander me and not let me tell my side…

POETRY CORNER: On Getting On

An original poem from Joan Ferrone…

Sophia Labbe named to Lasell University Fall 2024 dean’s list

VASSALBORO — Sophia Labbe, a Lasell University student, from Vassalboro, was named to the dean’s list for their academic performance in the Fall 2024 semester, in Newton, Massachusetts….

Husson University Online celebrates Term 4 academic award recipients

CENTRAL ME — Husson University Online has announced the academic achievements of students recently named to the president’s list, dean’s list and honors list for Term 4 of the 2023-2024 academic year….

Brianna Paine named to the Berry College dean’s list

ROME, GA (12/23/2024 ) — Brianna Paine, of Madison, was named to the fall dean’s list, at Berry College, in Rome, Georgia. The dean’s list honors students who posted an academic average of 3.5 or better on a 4.0 scale while carrying a class load of at least 12 hours during the semester.

Dana Plummer named to Husson University online’s president’s list

WATERVILLE — Dana Plummer, of Waterville, has been named to Husson University Online’s President’s List for Term 5 of the 2023-2024 academic year. Plummer is enrolled in Husson’s online BS Psychology with a Certificate in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion program.

Rebekah McKay named to dean’s list at Olivet Nazarene University

CHELSEA — Rebekah McKay, of Chelsea, was named to the dean’s list at Olivet Nazarene University, in Bourbonnais, Illinois, during the recently completed spring 2024 semester. To qualify for inclusion on the dean’s list, a student must have been enrolled as a full-time undergraduate student and must have attained a semester grade point average of 3.50 or higher on a 4.00 grading scale.

Local happenings

EVENTS: January history talk at Waterville Historical Society on Fort Halifax

WATERVILLE – Friends of Fort Halifax President, Ray Caron, is back by popular demand for the Saturday, January 11, history talk. When one thinks of Winslow and its defining history, few would not mention Fort Halifax. But what do we know about its history?…

EVENTS: Waterville Area Soup Kitchen to hold fundraiser

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

EVENTS: Norridgewock select board meetings rescheduled

NORRIDGEWOCK – Due to scheduling conflicts, the Norridgewock Select Board’s regular meetings for January 2025 will be Wednesday, January 8 and 22, 2025, 6 p.m., at the Norridgewock Town Office. The regular meeting schedule of the first and third Wednesdays of each month will resume in February. Meeting agenda are posted at the Town Office and online at www.norridgewock.gov…

Obituaries

CLINTON – Elaine J. Gurney, 80, passed away peacefully on Friday, December 13, 2024, at Lakewood Continuing Care, in Waterville, following a short illness…

CALENDAR OF EVENTS: Some community calendars still available

VASSALBORO – During the months of October through December several members and friends of the Vassalboro United Methodist Church (VUMC) delivered approximately 2,100 Community Calendars to every home and business in Vassalboro… and many other local events!

Up and Down the Kennebec Valley: China elementary schools (new)

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

Up and Down the Kennebec Valley: Clinton and Benton School

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

Up and Down the Kennebec Valley: Fairfield high schools

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

Up and Down the Kennebec Valley: Education in Fairfield

FAIRFIELD HISTORY — After multiple postponements, this article really is about the history of education – elementary education; high schools next week – in Fairfield, the town next upstream from Waterville on the west bank of the Kennebec River. Your writer thanks the Fairfield Historical Society for generously sharing material on the topic… by Mary Grow

Town Line Original Columnists

Roland D. HalleeSCORES & OUTDOORS

by Roland D. Hallee | I recently received this update from the Maine Forest Service on the status of the browntail moth caterpillar. Browntail caterpillars will remain in their winter webs for now…

VETERANS CORNER

by Gary Kennedy | Good day to my fellow veterans and all of you who read and contribute to these articles of importance which support and clarify issues of relevance in the veteran’s life and well being. It can be a long and testy road from active military force overseeing all that we know and love to veteran…

Peter CatesREVIEW POTPOURRI

by Peter Cates | Good day to my fellow veterans and all of you who read and contribute to these articles of importance which support and clarify issues of relevance in the veteran’s life and well being. It can be a long and testy road from active military force overseeing all that we know and love to veteran…

FOR YOUR HEALTH

(NAPSI) | You may not know it, but chances are you have at least one risk factor that could make you vulnerable for serious complications from flu, COVID-19 and other dangerous diseases. Conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, and lung diseases including asthma and COPD increase your risk. Other common factors including being overweight, obese, pregnant, and even age—being 50 or older—can put you at greater risk for serious illness…

Husson University Online celebrates Term 4 academic award recipients

Husson University Online has announced the academic achievements of students recently named to the president’s list, dean’s list and honors list for Term 4 of the 2023-2024 academic year. Courses for full-time online undergraduate students are offered over the course of seven weeks. This accelerated timeframe provides adult learners with an opportunity to balance existing personal and professional commitments as they complete their studies.

Full-time online students must be enrolled as an undergraduate, carry a full-time load of 12 credit hours over the course of 21 weeks, complete all attempted courses in the time allotted, and achieve a designated semester grade-point average. Credits from pass/fail classes do not qualify toward meeting the minimum credit hour requirement.

President’s List: 3.80 to 4.0 semester grade-point average

Dean’s List: 3.60 to 3.79 semester grade-point average

Honor’s List: 3.40 to 3.59 semester grade-point average

Ashley Castagnetto, of Winslow, – President’s List – BS Healthcare Administration & Public Health;

Sarah Rodrigue, of Cornville, – President’s List – BS Accounting;

Vivian Tschamler, of Whitefield, – Dean’s List – BS Psychology.

REVIEW POTPOURRI – Author: Judith Thurman

Judith Thurman

Peter Catesby Peter Cates

I Became Alone

I Became Alone is a 1975 book by Judith Thurman on five major woman poets. They are Sappho from ancient Greece; Louise Labe of the 16th century French Renaissance; Anne Bradstreet, who wrote out of her own experience living among fellow Puritans in 17th century Boston; Juana Ines de la Cruz dwelling in 17th century Mexico; and finally the 19th century Amherst, Massachusetts, recluse Emily Dickinson whose poems were posthumously published after being found by the hundreds in her bureau drawers.

The common thread among them, whatever their unique gifts, is their identities, their need to achieve focus and fuse their life and work as one.

To quote Thurman:

“If we read their work because they are women, we also read it because it is good poetry – good in the absolute, not good ‘for women.’ Quality has no gender: there are no ‘poetesses.’ These five poets wrote, and are, for everyone.”

A few words from each of the poets:

Sappho – “What my heart most hopes will happen, make happen; you yourself join forces on my side!”

Louise Labe – “Observing, then he loved me fatally,/I pitied his sad, amorous mischance,/and urged my nature on relentlessly,/till I loved with the same extravagance.”

Anne Bradstreet – “All things within this fading world hath end,/Adversity doth still our joyes attend;/No types so strong, no friends so dear and sweet,/But with deaths parting blow is sure to meet.”

Juana Ines de la Cruz – “I can’t hold you and I can’t leave you,/and sorting the reasons to leave you or hold you,/I find an intangible one to love you,/and many tangible ones to forgo you.”

Emily Dickinson – “I’m Nobody! Who are you?/Are you-Nobody-Too?/Then there’s a pair of us?/Don’t tell! they’d advertise-you know!”

All five women were literary artists in a patriarchal society in which women literary artists were considered weird and against what that society considered normal. Hence, a good adjective for them would be subversive.

The Agency

Recently I saw the first two episodes of a new series, The Agency, starring Richard Gere and a fine supporting cast. It casts a different, non-clichéd perspective on the CIA. The two episodes stream for free on Paramount until January 24. Additional ones mean 12 extra dollars monthly for the upgrade. Highly recommended, however.