VETERANS CORNER: Best way to apply for VA benefits is to contact a veterans service officer

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by Gary Kennedy

Those of us who have been in the VA system for some time assume that everyone knows how to apply for help from the VA. Unfortunately, that is not the case. I meet people all the time that don’t have a clue on how to become part of the system. That is exactly what you must do to begin with, become part of the system.

The best way to begin is to connect with a Veteran’s Service Officer, (VSO). There are many agencies that can be of help such as American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Disabled American Veterans, Maine Veterans Services and Paralyzed Veterans of Maine. There are also independents such as myself as well as VA lawyers. The latter one is a last resort as it will cost you a percentage of your initial win. However, they have a good track record in financial recovery. Also, as I stated in previous issues the most knowledgeable V.S.O.’s are located at Veteran Services on the second floor of building 248. They now accept walk-ins or you can call and make an appointment. In my opinion this is the fastest way you can achieve your goal. Once again the number is 207-621-6938. Their door remains locked at street level so you will have to enter via building 200 or 205.

VA has made changes since covid. Some of the doctors we have grown to know have either left for greener pastures or retired. Dr. Susan Hage, physiatrist, has gone as well as Dr. Cathy Boulet, both of the PN clinic. They will be missed. However, they have been replaced by some knowledgeable medical professionals such as Dr. Macy, physiatrist. She is very gentle and extremely knowledgeable. They really know their stuff when it comes to anatomy and physiology.

That is a very complicated skill set but take is from me they really have their stuff together. They know what pain is all about and how to deal with it. I have found that department to be very thorough. Also many of you remember Dr. Juta Eichelman, Doctor of Neurology. She was that great doctor with the German accent. I spent a couple of years in Germany and was stationed near her home. Through the years we became great friends.

As most of you know the equipment in that department broke down years ago and EMG’s were all farmed out at great expense. This was very heartening for Dr. Eichelman. I don’t know if she resigned or just retired. I for one do miss her. Since then new equipment has been acquired. Orthopedics has also had some changes. Drs. Beauchene and Olinik have left. Actually, I believe we are still short an orthopedic surgeon and I have heard we could use more operating theatres.

Also, I might add, emergency needs more room, as well as a better access to the emergency room for ambulances. Stroke and heart attack care experience is of great demand at every medical facility. They are disorders that are extremely time sensitive. There has been some turn over at Podiatry, however, Dr. Melissa Williams is still running the show and is an excellent foot and ankle doctor and surgeon. Her door is always open to our veterans. For the veteran that is an area of expertise that is direly needed.

There has been some retirement in Release of Information but Donna, Ruth and Sandy are still able to keep the door open and the flow of needed information available to their veterans. Their job is probably the most stressful positions in all of VA as they are responsible for not only VA medical records but social security issues as well. Unfortunately, they are always shorthanded. Be patient with them as they are doing the best they can, with limited staff. I hear a lot of people say “if I were running the show”, I would do this and that. If I were running the show with the VA budget I would prioritize and implement that which is critical. However, that is too logical a solution. In any case we veterans need the VA system even with its flaws.

The administration should know that 75 years ago, or so, veterans were given a pool and gym in which to work out their physical and emotional problems. That was considered important then and hasn’t changed to this day. We have been sending letters to Washington in order to gain some support and also remove the non-military obstacles that plague veterans receiving the care they need and deserve. That facility is the home of thousands of physical therapy interventions and should be considered alongside the other support venues that should be available to veterans.

A new school of thought is needed regarding this issue. Many veterans still talk about this loss, taken by the administration. If enough of us stand for our rights the powers that be will disappear and things will go back to normal. Administration has opted to make our bricks pretty at the cost of just repairing the pool which is needed for spinal therapy and emotional therapy. For some of us veterans this is a home away from home and serves to help us live longer, and more pain free lives. We need Washington to step in. Please give the gym back to the veteran and open the pool. It is now being used to store hospital beds. Very sad!

It is a slap in the face to veterans to rent our facility out to employees and deny veterans access. While at the same time tell veterans VA will pay for them to go to YMCA. We always shared the gym with employees on scheduled days per week. Now the director is saying it should be used as an employee perk. There are 500 acres at VA. Let them perk somewhere else. There perhaps should be more veterans employed in the administration office. For sure, that office is not listening as they didn’t listen about building the Hospitality House on wet lands.

As you know, I did file a complaint with the State of Maine before they built it, in order to eliminate the follies and to protect the wildlife habitat there. They built the building and now it is shutdown and sinking, after only one year. It’s a shame and wasteful spending of other people’s money. I send my thoughts and feelings to D.C., and at least, they will know we are watching.

In closing I will share a couple of things that I had forgotten. The first would be we lost a great man, Nathan Laverriere, Chief of Business Service Line (BSL) at Togus. I believe that’s considered an over sight committee. Some employees have discussed this. I can’t elaborate as I am not personally familiar with this person, only what I am told. What I do know is he is sorely missed by the staff of Release of Information but was transferred to the Boston Office.

Elections are coming up and we wait with anticipation regarding the change of the guard. We are hoping for recognition and change before too many of the ‘Nam Era Vets expire without the peace they seek.

Vets meet weekly so hopefully I will have some more news for you next time, perhaps of a more positive nature. I know we all need it.

God bless you and yours.

The views of the author of this column are not necessarily those of The Town Line newspaper, its staff and board of directors.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, September 7, 2023

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LARRY DENIS

TUCSON, Arizona – Larry Denis, 69, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, August 13, 2023. Larry was born on March 10, 1954, in Water­ville. He grew up in the area once known as Head of Falls. He has resided in Arizona for 32 years.

He was predeceased by his parents Wilfred and Helen Denis; a sister Mary Dyke, a brother Michael Denis; and grandson Zyah Denis.

He is survived by his wife and love of his life Lynne; sons Chad and Zachary Denis; and daughters Casey Perkins and Veronica Hunt; brothers Ronnie and wife Terry, Steve Denis; sisters Nancy Wilmot and husband Peter, Deborah Trepanier, Susan Coates and husband Ed.

There will be no services at this time. A celebration of life will be held at a future date at Head of Falls. Those interested in attending should contact Susan Coates.

KENNETH P. McCAUGHEY

WATERVILLE – Kenneth Paul McCaughey, 79, passed away early Saturday morning, August 19, 2023. He was born in Pro­vidence, Rhode Island, May 27, 1944, the son of Kenneth and Rita Mc­Caughey (Dubuque).

Kenny graduated from Waterville High School in 1962. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served his country from 1963-1967.

Kenny loved his family and friends. His pride and joy were his two daughters and two grandsons. He was always quick with a story or a piece of wisdom. He was present for his family and his circle of friends. Kenny lived his life with a clear direction and expected the same of those he loved. His beliefs were rock solid and his love for family was unwavering.

Kenny was predeceased by his parents, Kenneth and Rita.

Kenny is survived by his wife, Carolyn; his daughter, Deborah and grandson Logan; his daughter Kristin and grandson Drew; his sister Ruth Crane, and his cousin Sharmon McCaughey.

GENE PAULETTE

WATERVILLE – Gene Paulette, 79, passed away Tuesday, August 22, 2023, at home. Gene was born Feb­ruary 26, 1944, in Wat­er­­ville to James and Vio­­lette Paulette.

He graduated Winslow High School in 1962 and started his lifelong career at the Morning Sentinel, in Waterville, where he worked for 44 years.

On November 23, 1967, he married the love of his life Rose Deschaine. They were married for 55 years and together they raised three children.

Gene was a hard worker, most of the time holding down two jobs to be able to provide for his family, in return he also loved to have fun. Many antics happened around the campfire and family gatherings.

Gene loved camping but most of all he loved his family. He looked forward to visits from his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Gene was predeceased by his father and mother.

He is survived by his wife of 55 years Rose Paulette; children Cheryl Trott (Cabot), Scott Paulette and Debbie Blaisdell, Holly Paulette and Ed McCausland; grandchildren Dylan Trott, Cameron Trott, Justin McCausland and Rita Brown; great-grandchildren Oliver, Everleigh, Kamden and Waylon; his brother Ron Paulette (Sandra), Betty Pelletier, Paul Paulette (Denise) and Mike Paulette; brother-in-law Roland Deschaine (Diane), Martin Deschaine (Jane) and David Deschaine; many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

At Gene’s request there will be no funeral. Also at his request he wanted all to gather, have a party, remember him and have fun.

There will be a celebration of life Sunday September 10, 11 a.m., at Center for All Seasons, 1 Center Dr., Belgrade (formerly Bartlett’s campground). All are welcome.

MYRON A. SMITH

OAKLAND – Myron A. Smith, 94, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, August 23, 2023, at Northern Light Inland Hospital, in Waterville. Myron was born on October 25, 1928, in Mercer, at his family home, to Alton and Helen Grace Smith (Owens).

He was one of seven children. He attended grammar school in Mercer and Norridgewock High School. On October 25, 1952, Myron married Josephine Margaret Bacon and they raised two children, Gwendolyn and Robert. They lived in Mercer until 1968 and then moved to Oakland where he lived until his death.

As a young man, Myron showed baby beef at many fairs and participated in 4-H. Through the years, he was a member of Sandy River Grange #89, in Mercer, member of Eastern Star, in Norridgewock, and was raised to the sublime degree of a Master Mason, on August 7, 1953, at Lebanon Masonic Lodge #116. On Monday, August 7, 2023, Myron was presented his 70th year star for being a member of Lebanon Masonic Lodge #116, in Norridgewock, for 70 years, by his son, Robert Smith. He was very proud of his Masonic Service over the years.

Myron worked for the State of Maine, Department of Transportation from 1952 until 1977. After retiring from the state, he couldn’t sit still so he started doing logging work for himself with his ponies. After this, he worked with Frank Varney building houses, worked for Tukey’s sawmill for over 20 years and finished his working career at RSU #18 as a maintenance worker.

Myron enjoyed several hobbies including pulling his ponies locally and at several fairs throughout Maine from 1970 – 1985. He also enjoyed camping with his wife and family in many places, to include Florida, Virginia, Tennessee and his dream trip to Alaska. He was a seasonal camper at Yonderhill Jellystone Park, in Madison, for the last 13 years. He loved roller skating, snowmobiling, playing cards and games (he made each of his kids marble game boards, pegs and jokers boards and potty boards (corn hole}, enjoyed reading the newspaper every day, dancing in his younger years, taking tickets monthly for the Masonic Lodge public suppers for the last 10 years and teasing his three grandchildren and his six great-grandchildren.

He was predeceased by his parents, his sister Florence Stacy (Charles), brother Harold and his wife Gweneth Smith, sister Guinevere and her husband Gerald Lambert, brother-in-laws Gerald Bulmer, John B. Oblak, Carl Pooler, and James W. Bacon.

He is survived by his wife, Josephine, of 70 years; daughter Gwendolyn (Brian) Thebarge; son Robert (Cindy) Smith. Siblings Beverly Bulmer, Lee (Charlene) Smith, James (Dawn) Smith; his three grandchildren, who called him Grampie, Megan (Nick) Shorey, Caitlin (Shawn Dube) Smith, and Carleton (Mikala) Smith and six great-grandchildren who called him Bampie, Ava, Brady and Calhan (CJ) Shorey, Dawson and Addison Dube, and Kayden Smith; sisters-in-law Janiece B Oblak, Rosalie R. Bacon, and Georgia W. Pooler; many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A funeral service, to include a Masonic Ceremony, will be held on Thursday, September 7, 2023, at 1 p.m., at Oakland-Sidney United Methodist Church, at 14 W. School Street, in Oakland. Burial will follow directly after at Lewis Cemetery, Cottle Road, in Oakland.

Arrangements are under the care of Dan and Scott’s Cremation and Funeral Service in Skowhegan, Maine.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Myron’s memory to Lebanon Masonic Lodge #116, c/o Brian Thebarge, Secretary, 225 Middle Road, Oakland, ME 04963.

NEAL D. HALLEE

AUBURN – Neal D. Hallee, 79, of Auburn, passed away on Wednesday, August 23, 2023 in Au­burn. He was born on Oc­tober 21, 1943, the son of Florian and Constance Hallee, of Waterville.

He graduated from Waterville High School, the University of Maine, Orono and Penn State University, College Station, Pennsylvania.

He was an internationally published Agricultural Engineering Professor at the University of Maine, Orono, for 36 years, until he retired to Cooper and Topsham. During his university career, in addition to working with the farmers of Maine, Neal was one of the architects of the Maine Compost School.

He was predeceased by his wife, Margaret Anne Hallee; and his son-in-law Michael Robert Tibbetts.

He is survived by his son Richard and his husband Lawrence Griffin; his daughter Margaret; two granddaughters, Grace and Katie Tibbetts; two step-grandchildren, Brad Griffin and Katelyn Flint; brothers and sisters and their families.

Funeral arrangements are by Funeral Alternatives Group. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, in Lisbon, on Friday, September 8, 2023, beginning with a period of visitation from 10 a.m. until 11 a.m., with a funeral Mass to take place at 11 a.m., followed by interment at Grace Lawn Cemetery, in Auburn.

Condolences may be expressed at http://www.funeralalternatives.net and https://www.facebook.com/FALewiston.

SISTER VIRGINIA CONNORS

WATERVILLE – Sister Virginia Connors SSS, 94, a member of the Servants of the Blessed Sacrament, in Waterville, passed away in the early morning on Mon­day, August 28, 2023. She was born in Brooklyn New York, on November 5, 1928, and entered the convent here in Waterville, on November 4, 1954.

Before coming to the convent she had obtained a B.A . degree from Lincoln Memorial University, in Harrogate, Tennessee, and worked as a Blood Bank Laboratory Technician. As a religious she became a Licenced Practical Nurse, at Mt. St. Joseph, in Waterville.

She served the church in Waterville, Pueblo, Colorado, Kenner, Louisiana, and Cleveland, Ohio. In community she served as local and provincial treasurer. During the years after Vatican II she represented our community at the Diocesan pastoral council meetings for women religious in Portland. She loved to lead the weekly sharing on the Word of God and continued until her energy ran out..

When she returned to Mount St. Joseph in May 2023, she still thought of herself as a nurse giving medical advice to others, medical advice she had acquired over the years.

She was predeceased by her parents, Thomas Connors and Virgina Walsh and her brother Thomas.

She is mourned by her religious community; her brother Russell Connors and wife Rebekkah, from Cape Elizabeth; nieces and nephews Dr. Jean Yortz, Virginia and Dr. Daniel Hershman, of Massachusets, Sarah and Mary Ellen Colson, of Topsham, and John Connors, of Casco.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Thursday, August 31, 2023, at Blessed Sacrament Chapel, Silver Street, in Waterville.

China Historical Society VP to conduct cemetery tour

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Members of the China Historical Society (2023). (photo by Roberta Barnes)

The vice president of the China Historical Society, Tim Hatch, will be conducting a tour of the Chadwick Hill Cemetery this Saturday morning, September 9, beginning at 9 a.m. This property is located off Rte. 32 S., and is one of he largest burial sites in China. We all know that death is inevitable but after his or her passing, the history an individual created lives on forever. Tim has roots in China that go back to the 1700s and is very enthusiastic about preserving the past of those now gone. There is no set time frame for the event and parking will be available at Erskine Academy, diagonally across from the cemetery. Hopefully Mother Nature will be cooperative.

LAKE LIFE TODAY: conclusion

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China Lake

Lake Life Today is a series of articles that are hoped will inspire you to see how, by taking just a few steps, you can make a difference and help preserve the quality of water in our lakes for future generations.
These articles have been collected and organized by LakeSmart Director Elaine Philbrook, a member of China Region Lake Alliance (aka “the Alliance”) serving China Lake, Webber Pond, Three Mile Pond, and Three-Cornered Pond. The Alliance would like to thank our partners at Maine Lakes and Lakes Environmental Association (LEA) for information to support this article.

The LakeSmart Laker’s Dozen Lakes are fragile, Care for them today.
Enjoy them tomorrow.

As I listen to fewer loon calls at night and watch them gathering in social groups during the day, I am aware summer’s coming to a close. By the time you read this final Lake Life article of the season Meteorological Autumn will have begun. My hope has been that these Lake Life resources over the summer months would inspire you to take action and, knowing the difference you can make in the future, protect our lakes and ponds. One of my favorite quotes is, “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” (Helen Keller) It seems very fitting about what needs to be done. Pick one or choose all 13 of the LakeSmart’s Dozen and make a difference for the future of our lakes and ponds.

1. Support Lake Associations.

Join the Board of Directors. Attend your Annual Lake Association’s meeting. Get involved. Visit lakes.me/map to see a map of Maine’s Member Lake Associations.

2. Stop The Spread of Invasives.

Clean plant fragments off your boat, trailer, and boating equipment before moving your boat.

Drain bilges away from the lake when you leave a waterbody.

Dry your boat or let it sit several days between uses on different water bodies.

Never transfer water or fish from lake to lake.

This is the law as of 2023:
https://www.maine.gov/ifw/docs/Clean%20Drain%20Dry%20Frequently%20Asked%20Questions.pdf

3. Follow Shoreland Zoning Rules.

What happens on land doesn’t stay on land. Actions you take on your property can have devastating consequences for the health of your lake. Before any project, check with your local Town Office or Code Enforcement Officer to see if you need a permit for work within the shoreland zone, the 250 feet deep strip of land along the edge of a lake.

4. End Erosion.

On a rainy day check around your buildings, paths, driveways, and roads to identify places where soil is eroding or washing away. Erosion drives phosphorus into the lake, which in turn feeds algae and causes lakes to turn green and “bloom.” Fix erosion by planting vegetation downslope; installing crushed stone or erosion control mulch where needed; or by constructing swales or rain gardens. For more information on these and other stormwater Best Management Practices visit lakes.me/BMPs.

5. Build Better Buffers.

Trees, shrubs, and grasses protect water quality by slowing down rainwater in order for phosphorus and other pollutants to filter out in the soil before washing into the lake. Deeper buffers are better, as are those with more layers of vegetation. Native plants do more for pollinators, birds, and other wildlife. Visit Maine Audubon Native Plant finder for resources on buffer plantings. https://mainenativeplants.org/

6. Ditch Fertilizers, Herbicides and Pesticides.

Long-lasting chemicals in these products can harm children, pets, and aquatic life. They can also feed algae in your lake and turn it green and smelly.

7. Take a Break. Stash Your Rake. Save the Lake!

Limit lawn size, mow less often, and leave clippings and you won’t need fertilizer. Try not to rake within 75’ of the shore. This comes highly recommended under Shoreland Zoning Guidelines and is also a practice that helps promote native pollinators, and shelters and feeds wildlife.

8. Don’t Stress Your Septic.

Check your septic system for signs of malfunction and pump the septic tank regularly. Have your service provider check the tank’s baffles. Use phosphorus-free cleaners and detergents. Stagger laundry loads and dishwasher runs to occur no more than once a day. Avoid using the (garbage) disposal, and minimize water use when possible. Don’t put toxics or grease down the drain. Visit lakes.me/septic for more info.

9. Build Lake-Friendly Docks.

Cedar, cypress, plastic, or aluminum are good dock materials.

10. Don’t Treat Your Lake Like a Washtub.

Dogs, humans, or boats should never be washed in the lake! Soap is not good for water quality. It feeds algae and isn’t good for fish or other wildlife.

11. Observe Headway Speed Close to Shore.

Maine law prohibits wakes from boats within 200 feet of shore. Boating wakes in shallow water disturbs aquatic habitat, stirs up sediment, destabilizes the shoreline, and can damage or destroy nearby loon nests.

12. Give Wildlife a Chance.

Lake shallows and land near the water provide food and shelter for more than 60 native wildlife species and can also serve as nurseries for their young. Don’t “Tidy them up!”

13. Learn About LakeSmart.

LakeSmart provides site-specific suggestions to homeowners on how to protect water quality, enhance property values, and prevent lake degradation. To learn more, visit lakesmart.org or contact Maine Lakes at lakesmart@lakes.me.

If you have any questions about what you can do to ensure the integrity of your valued lake or if you would like a free LakeSmart evaluation you can reach Elaine Philbrook by email at chinalakesmart@gmail.com and read past Lake Life articles in The Town Line newspaper.

“Live lightly on the land for the sake of the lake (LakeSmart).”

Vassalboro school board members hold responsibility workshop

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Vassalboro Community School (contributed photo)

by Mary Grow

Before the Aug. 29 Vassalboro school board meeting, Steven Bailey, executive director of the Maine School Management Association (MSMA), led a workshop on board members’ responsibilities, including reminders of what they should not do.

Although school board members are elected by town voters, their roles and responsibilities are defined by state law, Bailey said.

Individual members cannot act officially, unless the full board has so authorized in a specific case. For example, if someone brings an educational concern to a board member, the member can listen sympathetically, but the next step is a referral to the full board or appropriate administrator.

Superintendent Alan Pfeiffer said he tries to offer an initial response to public complaints and concerns within 24 hours, understanding that resolving an issue will often take longer.

Bailey emphasized the respective roles of the board and the administration. Board members are not supposed to be “down in the weeds” dealing with daily operations; they are supposed to set goals and policies, which direct the superintendent as he delegates implementation to school staff.

In summary, Bailey said, the board’s responsibility is not to operate the educational program, but to see that it is well operated.

This division of labor does not mean that board members cannot join the parent-teacher organization, or volunteer services, though Bailey cautioned they should avoid taking leadership roles.

Another important task is to keep communications open with school staff and with town residents. State law requires that board meetings be open to the public (with exceptions for executive-session discussions) and that each meeting agenda include a public comment period. But, Bailey added, board members must make sure public discussion does not distract them from doing their job, which is to deal with the business on their agenda.

He reminded board members that emails about school business are public records. They should use their official school accounts for school-related emails and should avoid including confidential information.

And he summarized some of the laws passed or amended during the recent legislative session. Some of the state changes may require amendments to school board policies, an on-going process with Vassalboro board members.

Bailey congratulated VCS on having only “a few” open positions; other Maine schools have many staff vacancies, he said.

Gaga pit installed at school

One of the summer projects at Vassalboro Community School was construction of a Gaga pit on the school grounds, Principal Ira Michaud reported at the Aug. 29 school board meeting. He added a photo of the pit to his report.

A Gaga pit is an enclosure in which to play the game called Gaga. Wikipedia says the name is from the Hebrew word for “touch, touch” and calls the game “a variant of dodgeball.”

Players in the pit slap a ball, trying to strike another player below the knee (rules vary, but below the knee seems to be most common). The ball is soft, foam or rubber or similar. A player hit below the knee is out and leaves the pit; a player whose ball hits another player above the knee is out; the winner is the last person still in.

Michaud said the VCS Gaga pit is a 22-foot-diameter wooden-walled box. It can accommodate two dozen players, but is more suited to a dozen at a time. He planned to try it out the day after the meeting; Superintendent Alan Pfeiffer said later that the games were postponed for a day because of rain on Aug. 30.

VASSALBORO: Board updated on school summer improvements

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Vassalboro Community School (contributed photo)

by Mary Grow

Vassalboro School Board members began their fall/winter meetings on Aug. 29 with the usual updates on summer improvements; approval of new staff and other appointments for the coming school year; and financial report.

Superintendent Alan Pfeiffer summarized the work done on the exterior of Vassalboro Community School (VCS) by Standard Waterproofing, of Winslow: a complete power-washing (“You could just see the difference,” interjected assistant principal Tabitha Brewer), resealing joints, repairs where needed and a silicone spray that should last six years.

The superintendent called the work “long overdue.” He had not received a final bill, but expected the cost to be around $195,000.

Pfeiffer praised the VCS custodial crew for their work on the building interior over the summer, and thanked principal Ira Michaud, Brewer and special education director Tanya Thibeau for the many hours they’ve put in since classes ended in June.

Michaud’s report to the school board listed multiple training sessions for teachers, showing that they, too, have been working over the summer. He mentioned successful pre-school events already held, and thanked Don and Lisa Breton and the people who donated school supplies to the drive the Bretons organized.

School board members approved new hires, including a school nurse and two sixth-grade teachers. VCS still needs a part-time Spanish teacher (to succeed Monica Fallaw, who resigned to accept a high-school position, Pfeiffer said), and there are a few openings for educational technicians.

Finance director Paula Pooler summarized unaudited year-end balances for FY 2022-23, which ended June 30. Of Vassalboro’s $8.722 million in proposed expenditures for last year, all but $5,421.88 was spent, she reported – very close budgeting, but still in the black.

Revenues were lower than expected, so the school department had to use some of the funds allocated from the undesignated fund balance. The undesignated fund still totals more than $1.2 million.

The VCS food service program, which ran a deficit for many years, showed an excess of revenue over expenditures in 2022-23 for the second year in a row, Pooler said.

For the new fiscal year that began July 1, Pooler sees no budgetary problems so far.

School board members re-elected Jolene Gamage board chairman and Jessica Clark vice-chairman, and reappointed members of board committees.

The only item of new business on the Aug. 29 agenda was review of proposed updates to the document called “Vassalboro Community School Strategic Plan Goals.” Pfieffer asked board members to be prepared for discussion at their Sept. 19 meeting.

He offered two other items for that meeting agenda: the 2023-24 school board meeting schedule, including tentative 2024 dates for reviewing the 2024-25 budget with the budget committee; and preliminary discussion of cooling upstairs classrooms at VCS.

New staff members will be invited to meet board members at 5:45 p.m., on Sept. 19, at VCS, and the board meeting will begin at 6 p.m.

Erskine Academy student creates environmental club that’s leading school sustainability initiatives

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Carson Appel

Eighteen-year-old Carson Appel is featured in Rustic Spirit Spotlights for his amazing impact work – Carson co-founded an environmental club that’s dedicated to sustainability projects. Their initiatives include installing energy-efficient light switches, promoting energy efficiency, revitalizing the school’s paper recycling program and planting trees to capture carbon from the environment. Beyond school volunteer activities, Carson volunteers weekly at a local hospital as a greeter.

In college, Carson plans to pursue public policy and applied mathematics to help communities thrive. In his free time he enjoys hiking, alpine skiing, cycling and many other outdoor activities with friends.

Carson says anyone can help to improve our world. Start small with something you’re passionate about, and invite others to learn and grow with you!

“Never stop hoping” is mantra of cancer survivor

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Breast cancer survivor Bonnie Collins, of Holden. (contributed photo)

by John D. Begin

“Never stop hoping” mantra keys Bonnie Collins’ cancer journey through diagnosis, treatment and recovery.

Before July 2022, Bonnie Collins never thought she’d one day wear an inexpensive pink rubber bracelet that has far greater significance than its actual value.

That was before the 20-year registered nurse and master gardener volunteer knew of a family history of breast cancer. It also was before she discovered a lump on her rib cage, under her arm.

“Being an experienced nurse, I didn’t panic and applied a heated rice pack for three weeks and it didn’t go away,” she said. “I realized then I needed to have it looked at.”

After a mammogram and ultrasound, a biopsy was needed. Unfortunately, it would be nine weeks before Bonnie could have it in Bangor, close to where she lives, due to staffing and other issues.

After deciding to call other sites, Bonnie spoke with MaineGeneral’s Breast Care Program staff and scheduled the biopsy in mid-September 2022. Four days later, she read “carcinoma” in her online patient portal results.

“It was a complete shock and I started to feel dizzy because I was holding my breath and didn’t realize it,” she said.

Finding a treatment “home”

Bonnie and her husband Peter traveled to Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, in Boston, where they learned she had triple-negative breast cancer, an aggressive form with limited treatment options. As they traveled north afterward, they knew the financial and emotional costs of weekly treatments in Boston would be too great.

Bonnie wanted treatment much closer to home – at the Harold Alfond Center for Cancer Care (HACCC). She called the center on their drive, learned they could take her as a patient and stopped in with her medical records.

“I walked in and it felt like I was home. That was the turning point in feeling I would get the care I needed,” she said. “Going there was the best decision I made. They treated me like they would treat their own family members – their mothers, sisters or daughters.”

Bonnie received 16 chemotherapy treatments in the months that followed. After her last one, she vigorously rang the center’s milestone bell to celebrate the start of her life as a cancer survivor in remission.

Finding signs of hope all around her

Bonnie acknowledges that low points during her treatment sometimes stole her joy and challenged her will to keep fighting. Even during these dark moments, she still had hope.

“I always hoped things would get better even when I didn’t feel well. There’s so much you don’t know, so you hope – a lot – for certain things – to see your next birthday or to become a nana someday. You hope your treatment will work or that you don’t get into a car accident traveling to an appointment during the winter.”

“Cancer is tough for the patient and those closest to them. Seeing changes in your loved one going through chemotherapy – losing their hair and suffering from fatigue and brain fog – is difficult,” she added. “For the patient, it changes your outlook on life. Relationships and priorities change – quickly. Sunrises, sunsets and everything in between mean so much more. I don’t take a day for granted and hope I have many more.”

Bonnie noted that being surrounded by people who offer optimism and support makes a difference.

“My mom hugged me and said, ‘You be a warrior.’ And I feel like I was. I knew I was going to battle but I couldn’t do it alone,” she said. “I had an army of supporters – my husband and sons, my extended family, my friends and coworkers and the incredible HACCC care team. Hope was truly all around me.”

And that pink bracelet mentioned earlier? It’s still on her wrist as a reminder and source of inspiration.

“I hate it for what it represents – that I had cancer and I’m a cancer survivor,” she said. “But I also love it because it reminds me of how strong I needed to be. It gave me courage to hope for a brighter future and extra time.”

A day for those touched by cancer

As the 2023 marshal, Bonnie will share her story October 7 at MaineGeneral’s Day of Hope, at the Augusta Civic Center.

The event is a day full of inspiration, celebration, education and fun for the whole family. It also is a time to rally around those whose lives have been touched by cancer and to raise funds through the Walk for Hope to support care provided at the HACCC. The walk is part of the day’s activities.

The $10 cost per person includes access to an inspirational opening ceremony; the Walk for Hope; education events; cancer screenings; nutritious food samples and a Kids Zone, among other activities.

While encouraged, fundraising is not required. Cancer patients, survivors and children under 12 are welcome at no cost.

In sharing her experience, Bonnie hopes it will bring strength to others.

“My advice is to not give up when you get a cancer diagnosis. Keep living your life and never stop hoping,” she said. “I hate cancer, but if sharing my journey makes it easier for someone else, I’m happy to do it.”

To learn more about the Day of Hope, visit https://give.mainegeneral.org/hope. For information about MaineGeneral’s cancer care program, visit https://www.mainegeneral.org/cancer.

John D. Begin is a communications specialist in MaineGeneral Health’s Marketing and Communications Department.

Issue for August 31, 2023

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Issue for August 31, 2023

Celebrating 35 years of local news

Abel Jones house returns to his descendants

Old houses/buildings can appear to be of no interest other than to be torn down and replaced with modern structures. When you take a moment and think of old buildings in need of more than a coat of paint the building can look quite different. These old buildings, such as the Jones house on the Jones Road, in China, Maine, are part of the journey that led to today’s communities, states, and our country… by Roberta Barnes

Town News

Select board sets tax rate at 12.26 mils, up from 12.05 mils

CHINA – At their Aug. 28 meeting, China select board members, in their capacity as assessors, set the town’s 2023-24 tax rate: 12.26 mils, or $12.26 for each $1,000 of valuation…

Nomination papers available for November election

CHINA – China’s municipal elections for members of the select board, planning board and budget committee will be held Tuesday, Nov. 7. Nomination papers are now available at the town office; Friday, Sept. 8, is the deadline for returning signed papers to be on the local ballot…

PHOTOS: School supplies drive has another successful event

VASSALBORO – The school supplies gathering by a Vassalboro group for students at Vassalboro Community School, had another successful drive on August 19…

Historical Association’s best bakers prepare for auction of desserts at annual “Preservation Party”

THOMASTON – One of the highlights of “Preservation Party,” Lincoln County Historical Association’s (LCHA) annual fundraiser dinner, is the auction of cakes by the delightful veteran auctioneer, Kaja Veilleux, of Thomaston Place Auction Galleries…

Central Maine Eagles seeks players

CENTRAL ME – The Central Maine Eagles football team that plays out of China at the rec fields, is seeking players. The JV team which host kids from sixth to eighth grades needs more players. Numbers usually increase during the start of school, but the team has its first game coming up in two weeks and they are a few players short…

LETTERS: It’s all in the salsa!

from Susan Thiem (Corpus Christi, TX) – I read with interest the column ‘More Salsa Please’ by Dan Beaulieu. I just arrived for my 52nd summer stay on China Lake, but my permanent residence is in Corpus Christi,Texas,100 miles north of the Mexican border. We take pride in the many authentic “Tex/Mex “restaurants north of Mexico…

LETTERS: A warm thank you

from The family of Alia Coombs Singh – The family of Alia Coombs Singh would like to thank our friends and neighbors for their kindness and generosity after Alia’s unexpected passing…

Webber’s Pond

Webber’s Pond is a comic drawn by an anonymous central Maine resident (click thumbnail to enlarge)…

Name that film!

Identify the film in which this famous line originated and qualify to win FREE passes to The Maine Film Center, in Waterville: “They call me Mister Tibbs!” Email us at townline@townline.org with subject “Name that film!” Deadline for submission is September 7, 2023…

Local happenings

EVENTS: Event schedule for VASSALBORO DAYS 2023

VASSALBORO – A schedule of events for upcoming Vassalboro Days, September 8-10…

CALENDAR OF EVENTS: Community yard sale

CHINA — The Greater Neck Road Neighborhood Association is having their fifth annual community yard sale on Saturday, September 9, 2023, from 8 a.m. – 2 p.m., at the China Baptist Church parking lot, China, Maine. The proceeds from the fundraiser will help area people in need this winter… and many other local events!

Obituaries

VASSALBORO – Lawrence Bartlett, 95, passed peacefully on Friday, August 11, 2023. He was the son of Kenneth and Beatrice Overlock of Maine… and remembering 11 others.

Celebrating Maine history

Click here for all of our recent stories about the local history of Maine!

Up and down the Kennebec Valley: Music in the Kennebec Valley – Part 5 (new)

KV HISTORY — In the course of reading about the history of music in the central Kennebec Valley, specifically George Thornton Edwards’ 1928 Music and Musicians of Maine, your writer came across two intertwined musical families who lived in Hallowell, before and after Augusta became a separate town in 1897… by Mary Grow

Up and down the Kennebec Valley: Music in the Kennebec Valley – Part 4

KV HISTORY — Kennebec County historian Henry Kingsbury provided a minor exception to the general lack of interest in music in local histories when he included a section headed “MUSIC” in his history of Waterville and wrote two whole paragraphs… by Mary Grow

Up and down the Kennebec Valley: Slave trade in Vassalboro

VASSALBORO HISTORY — Maine, including to some extent small inland towns like Vassalboro, was more heavily involved in the international slave trade than many residents realize, both before and after slave-trading was made illegal in the United States in 1808… by Mary Grow

Up and down the Kennebec Valley: Music in the Kennebec Valley – Part 3

KV HISTORY — Another type of music in the central Kennebec Valley from early days of European settlement was band music. It was often, but especially in later years not inevitably, associated with military organizations; and like other forms of music, got limited attention in most local histories… by Mary Grow

Common Ground: Win a $10 gift certificate!

DEADLINE: Wednesday, September 14, 2023

Identify the people in these three photos, and tell us what they have in common. You could win a $10 gift certificate to Hannaford Supermarket! Email your answer to townline@townline.org or through our Contact page. Include your name and address with your answer. Use “Common Ground” in the subject!

Previous winner: Eleanor Bilodeau, Unity

Town Line Original Columnists

Roland D. HalleeSCORES & OUTDOORS

by Roland D. Hallee | I think it was Dr. Demento who used to say, “They’re everywhere, they’re everywhere!” Well, they are. You could be sitting on the deck or porch at camp, and there’s one on your leg, or walking across your shoulders. Go do some garden work, and you’ll see them there…

CRITTER CHATTER

by Jayne Winters | When I stopped by to chat with Don at the Duck Pond Wildlife Care Center today, I expected to see the usual pet carriers and cages with rescued critters in the living room. I was surprised to find no one in the incubators or cages!…

Peter CatesREVIEW POTPOURRI

by Peter Cates | The 35th President John Fitzgerald Kennedy (1917-1963) was a most vivid, vibrantly alive presence on the family Philco TV set from when I first saw him debate Richard Milhous Nixon (1913-1994) during October 1960, it being a very cold Friday night, to the assassination in Dallas; I remember Kennedy’s highly strong Irish Boston accent and debonair appearance versus Nixon’s coarse bass speaking voice and the derailing 5 o’clock shadow…

THE BEST VIEW

by Norma Best Boucher | At first, I was embarrassed when I couldn’t remember this teacher’s name, but then I realized that teachers’ names are not written on their students’ foreheads, but what they do for their students is indelibly written on their minds…

MY POINT OF VIEW

by Gary Kennedy | On September 4, we celebrate Labor Day in the United States. It’s a public holiday which is celebrated on the first Monday in September. Basically it honors the American labor movement and the contributions the working class has made to strengthen prosperity, laws and the well being of our great country…

FOR YOUR HEALTH

(NAPSI) — You may be at risk for liver disease and not even know it. Consider this: Fatty liver disease affects an estimated 80 to 100 million Americans and many are completely unaware they have it. Fortunately, you don’t have to be among them…

FOR YOUR HEALTH: Liver Disease And Your Life

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Show your liver a little love: Learn whether you have fatty liver disease by taking an online quiz.

(NAPSI)—You may be at risk for liver disease and not even know it. Consider this: Fatty liver disease affects an estimated 80 to 100 million Americans and many are completely unaware they have it. Fortunately, you don’t have to be among them.

Take the Liver Health Quiz

Through a simple liver health quiz, available at ThinkLiverThinkLife.org/quiz, it is easy to find out if you’re at risk and learn what to do next. Those who are most at risk for fatty liver disease include:
• People with type 2 diabetes
• People who are obese or have a high BMI
• People in Asian and Hispanic communities

What To Know

Fatty liver disease is one of the most common causes of liver disease in the U.S. and the most common cause of liver disease worldwide, affecting one billion people. It is the most common form of liver disease in children in the U.S. and cases have more than doubled over the last 20 years.
Causing excess fat to build up in the liver, fatty liver disease has little to no symptoms. Its exact causes are unknown but continued research indicates genetics, digestive disorders and diet can all play a role.
Research also indicates that fatty liver disease is not caused by heavy alcohol use (alcohol-associated liver disease). Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is an advanced form of fatty liver disease causing inflammation and liver damage, which can lead to liver failure and the need for liver transplant.

A Look at Your Liver

A healthy liver is essential to your overall health and wellness, and performs many necessary functions such as:
• Filtering toxins from your blood
• Making bile to help with digestion
• Storing sugar for energy
• Making protein for blood plasma
Additionally, the liver is the only solid organ in your body that can regenerate or repair itself, so getting an early diagnosis is critical. Often, liver patients can reverse liver damage or slow disease progression with a few small changes to their daily lifestyle.

Minimizing Your Risk

Everything you eat, breathe and touch is processed through your liver, therefore ensuring good liver health is critical. You can take steps to minimize your risk of fatty liver disease by following these simple tips:
• Maintain a healthy weight
•. Eat a healthy diet
• Exercise regularly
• Limit alcohol intake
• Take medications only as prescribed
In October, which is National Liver Awareness Month, the American Liver Foundation (ALF) encourages everyone to find out if they are at risk for fatty liver disease through its national public awareness campaign, Think Liver Think Life™.

About ALF

ALF is dedicated to ensuring every American understands their risk for liver disease, receives the appropriate diagnostic testing and care coordination and feels well-informed and supported throughout their liver journey. By partnering with community health centers and state departments of health, ALF offers screenings for those most at risk for fatty liver disease and provides them with connections to follow-up care when appropriate.
Getting a diagnosis early is critical for having a chance to reverse course before liver disease progresses. You can find out if you’re at risk by taking ALF’s liver health quiz at www.thinkliverthinklife.org/quiz.