PHOTO: Pine Tree paddle

/0 Comments/in , /by

Rachel and Kemp Anderson, from South China, were among 200 paddlers with a purpose on the Kennebec River, in Solon, on June 3. They paddled as part of the Resurrection Lutheran Church team. The 27th annual Bath Savings Paddle for Pine Tree Camp raised $90,000 for Maine children and adults with disabilities to have the experience of a lifetime at camp this summer. No camper who can benefit has ever been turned away due to their ability to pay. (photo courtesy of Pine Tree Camp)

OBITUARIES for Thursday, July 20, 2023

/0 Comments/in /by

BONNIE L. SHOREY

VASSALBORO – Bonnie L. Shorey, 76, passed away peacefully on Saturday, July 1, 2023. She was born on August 24, 1946, in Waterville, the daughter of Adrien and Simone (Beaulieu) Paradis, and grew up in the Waterville area, graduating from Waterville High School, class of 1964.

On February 10, 1968, Bonnie became the wife of Evan Shorey. He and Bonnie had a love that would see them through anything that life handed them, they were destined to be together and best friends forever. Bonnie and Evan raised three children and loved spending time as a family. In later years they loved to travel, including trips to Alaska, Mexico, Florida and some wonderful cruises. Bonnie was happiest being with Evan and their family. Theirs is a love story that will be told for generations.

Bonnie shared her love with many while working in the Vassalboro school system with students as an ed tech and teacher’s helper until her retirement just a couple of years ago. She was a communicant of St. Bridget Church, in Vassalboro, until its closure. She and Evan would walk to Mass every week. She enjoyed gardening and flowers and her morning walks with Evan. She was very proud of her family and was known as “Yae” to those who loved her.

Bonnie was predeceased by her parents; and her sister, Sandra Dolley.

She is survived by the love of her life, her husband and her best friend, Evan Shorey; her children, Cathy Geller, Brian Shorey and Allyson McFarland and husband Kevin; her grandchildren, Danielle Vigue and husband Dustin, Chloe Geller, Kaili and August and Gabriel Shorey and their mother Amanda Dwelle, and Kaleb and Cole Libby; her great-grandchildren Owen and Colton Vigue; her sister, Jolyne Paradis; her brother-in-law, Barry Dolley; her sister-in-law, Priscilla Abbott and husband Dale; and many nieces and nephews.

A celebration of Bonnie’s life will be held at the MacCrillis-Rousseau Post #8835 VFW, 175 Veteran Drive, Winslow, on Saturday, July 29, 2023, beginning at noon.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Veilleux and Redington Funeral Home, visit http://www.VeilleuxFuneralHome.com to share your memories and condolences with Bonnie’s Family.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at http://www.VeilleuxFuneralHome.com for the Shorey family.

JOANNE B. FULLER

FAIRFIELD – Joanne Bickford Fuller, 63, passed away peacefully on Saturday, July 1, 2023, at home. She was born in Waterville, on July 11, 1959, the daughter of the late Daniel and Christine Bickford.

Joanne graduated from Lawrence High School, in Fairfield, in 1978. During her working career she worked in the food service department at Benton Elementary School for 26 years. In October 1984 she married Roland Fuller. Together they enjoyed a 40-year loving relationship. Together they raised two daughters, Jamie and Nikki.

Joanne enjoyed gardening, Hallmark movies, her pets, and spending time with family. Most of all, she enjoyed her three grandchildren Hannah, Bristol, and Bentley, who she loved with all her heart.

Joanne was predeceased by her parents; in-laws Jim and Dothery Fuller; and brother, Arthur Bickford.

She is survived by her husband, Roland Fuller; daughters Jamie Chabot and granddaughter Hannah, of Fairfield; and Nikki Fuller and fiancé Matt Pooler and granddaughter Bristol and grandson Bentley, of China; brothers Allen Bickford, Alden Bickford, and Eugene Bickford and wife Vera, all of Fairfield; sister, Debbie Wentworth and her husband Bruce, of China; brother-in-law, Rodney Fuller and wife Brenda, of Albion; many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

There will be a Celebration of Life at the Fairfield VFW, 246 Main St., in Fairfield, on Sunday, July 16, at 1 p.m. An online guestbook may be signed, and memories shared at: http://www.lawrybrothers.com

Arrangements are by Lawry Brothers Funeral Home and Cremation Care, 107 Main St., Fairfield.

In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in Joanne’s memory to your local Humane Society or the St. Jude Cancer Center.

ROBERT E. DYER

BENTON – Robert E. Dyer, “Bob” “Bobby”, 73, passed away peacefully, at Northern Light Inland Hospital, in Waterville, on Tuesday, July 4, 2023, following a three-year battle with ALS (“Damn Yankees Disease” as he called it). He was born on February 11, 1950, in Fairfield, the son of Frederick and Mary Madeline (Tobey) Dyer.

He was one of five children with two sisters and two brothers. Bob attended Fairfield schools and graduated from Lawrence High School, in 1969; he also graduated from Unity College, in 1973, where he earned his bachelor’s degree.

Bob was an inquisitive child, sharing many stories of lighthearted, mischievous times with childhood friends, especially longtime pal Charlie Pomeroy. He was a passionate sports fan with his early years working in the P.A.L. program while attending college. Bob coached baseball, basketball and football for his sons. He impacted many young lives while coaching kids within the community and would transport them to/from their practices and games to make sure they could attend. In the fall, Bob could be seen in the end-zone on Friday nights at Lawrence High football games rooting on his favorite Bulldogs. In 2022, he received the “Bulldog Pride Award” for which he was humbled and extremely proud.

Bob worked at Huhtamaki for 43 years. He appreciated his time there and took great pleasure in entertaining/needling his co-workers; Bob had many jokes to share with his extremely playful banter. He was an avid golfer enjoying his time with his friend Jeff Beeh, at Cedar Springs, in Albion, playing with his sons/grandkids or playing in league play. During his retirement, Bob took up pickleball and enjoyed the people he met at the Alfond Youth Center.

He was a husband and a wonderful dad to his three sons, of whom he was very proud. His grandchildren were the light of his life and any time he got to spend with them was very special to him. A gentle soul, he cared about people, greatly loved his family and deep down enjoyed the company of others.

Bob was predeceased by his parents; his brother, Peter; his mother-in-law, Hilda Seeley; and his brother-in-law, Edward Moffitt.

He is survived by the love of his life for 52 years, Susanne (Seeley) Dyer; his father-in-law, Roland Seeley; his children Kevin (Tammy), Kelly and Kasey (Jenny) Dyer; sisters, Jane Moffitt and Nancy Simpson (Bob); and brother, Ron Dyer; his grandchildren Alli (Connor) Tulley, Kaden Dyer, Haylee and Lillyanne Dyer, Gracelyn Dyer, Cody (Summer) Grenier, Kayla (Jeff) Duprey, and Ryan Gagne; great-grandchildren, Reese Tulley, Gavin and Aubrie Grenier, and Paisley Duprey. Bob also had many aunts, uncles; cousins; nieces and nephews who were very special to him.

A celebration of life will be held on Friday, August 11, at the Waterville Elks Lodge, from 5 to 8 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the HealthWell Foundation or Compassionate Care ALS in his memory.

DAVID W. BARNES SR.

SOUTH CHINA – David William Barnes Sr., 69, passed away on Thursday, July 6, 2023, while at home. Over the last five years, David fought courageously against cancer. He was born July 25, 1953, a son of Charles W. Barnes and Mabel (Harrison) Ward.

David attended Erskine Academy, in South China, and prior to finishing school, he enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving during the Vietnam War. He married Sandra J. Trask on November 19, 1977, and the two settled in Weeks Mills where they raised their family.

He graduated from Cony High School, in Augusta, in 1979, and earned college degrees in business management and computer science from the University of Maine at Augusta.

After being introduced to the sport of fishing by his granddaddy, Frank Harrison, David found his passion in life, fishing. He became a Master Maine Guide, and truly enjoyed his work as a Professional Bass Fisherman. David taught countless people the art of bass fishing and he was regarded as one of the best anglers in the country, participating in countless tournaments throughout the United States. He was honored to be the first inductee in the Maine Bass Nation Hall of Fame, and has been featured on many TV shows, newspaper and magazines articles, and even co-authored a book entitled Maine Bassin’. In addition, David was a founder of multiple bass fishing clubs. An avid hunter, he also enjoyed hunting deer, bear and moose; the epitome of an outdoorsman.

Not only a fisherman, David was also a true patriot, Christian, and family man. His love for God, his family, and country were unmatched. It’s hard to condense such a special life in a short obituary but one undoubtable thing is that David went home to be with his Lord and Savior, and he would want every one of his loved ones to abide in Christ also.

He was predeceased by his father, Charles Barnes, his mother, Mabel Ward and her husband, Lloyd; his son, Steven Barnes, and a sister, Patricia James.

He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Sandra Barnes; his children, Angela Frey, David Barnes Jr. and his wife, Jessica, Daniel Barnes, Shawn Barnes and his wife Trisha, Susan Baker and her husband Alexander; and his granddaughter who he raised as his own daughter, Catlin Main and her husband, Brandon; as well as 16 grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren; and siblings Linda Warner, Sandra Barnes, Sherry Smith, Lloyd Ward, Brenda Campbell, Charlotte Vintion, Charles Barnes Sr., Christopher Barnes, Chester Barnes, Cheyenne Barnes, Cheryl Granquist, and Chauncey Barnes; and his stepmother, Ruby Arnold, who was a second mother to him.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m., Tuesday, July 25, 2023, at Central Church, 627 Rte. 3, China, on what would have been David’s 70th birthday.

Burial will follow at Dyer Hill Cemetery in Windsor, a Celebration of Life will follow at the MacCrillis-Rousseau Post #8835, VFW hall, 175 Veteran Drive, Winslow.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Plummer Funeral Home, 983 Ridge Rd., Windsor, ME 04363. Condolences, stories, or photos may be shared and a full obituary can be viewed by visiting http://www.plummerfh.com.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in David’s name may be made to: Travis Mills Foundation at travismillsfoundation.org or, 647 Castle Island Rd., Mt. Vernon, ME 04352.

KIM L. AU

OAKLAND – Kim Linda Au, 66, passed away on Sunday, July 9, 2023, at Eastern Maine Medical Center, in Bangor. Kim was born in Waterville on July 13, 1956, to Theresa (Roy) Liberty and Gerald L. Vigue, both deceased.

Kim lived most of her adult life in Oakland with her husband of 40 years, Carino Au.

Kim graduated from Waterville High School in 1974. She was a hard worker, often working multiple jobs at the same time. In her younger years Kim worked a variety of jobs. In 1986, she opened Kim’s Kitchen Restaurant, in Oakland. In 1989, she joined the Service Merchandise team, in Augusta, as a diamond consultant until the store went out of business in 1997. In 1997, she joined her husband Carino as co-owner of Jade Island, on the West River Road, in Waterville, operating the business for over 27 years. Kim then went on to work for Colby College, in Waterville, for many years, and in 2018 worked for John’s Market, of Waterville, until the store was sold in 2022. Even though Kim was retirement-eligible she chose to work as a cook and baker for Androscoggin Camp, in Wayne, and would have continued “working at camp” to this day.

Kim was a very talented artist, and had a passion for painting wildlife and custom pieces on organic materials such as glass, wood, metal, and slate. She turned this hobby into her own business and opened Au Artistry of Maine, in 2021, making her one of a kind artwork available for sale to the public. Kim also enjoyed traveling, riding her motorcycle with friends, cooking and decorating for holidays.

Kim is survived by her husband, Carino Au, of Oakland; two daughters, Kendra Littlefield and husband Wes Littlefield, of Oakland, and Jerri Lee Au and partner Dirk Caire, of Gardiner; two granddaughters, Weslee and Bodhi Littlefield, both in college at Ohio University and living in Oakland; three siblings, Karen Vigue Theriault and husband Tony Theriault, of Waterville, Kenneth Vigue and wife Diane Vigue, of Palermo, and Kelley Vigue Strout and husband Jody Strout, of Cornville; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Winslow VFW Post #8835, 175 Veteran Dr., in Winslow, on Monday, July 24, at 6 p.m.

Graveside service will be scheduled at a later date.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Waterville Food Bank, 61 Pleasant St., Waterville, ME 04901, tel: 207-616-0363; Email: watervillefoodbank@ gmail.com.

RONALD L. PRESSEY

OCOEE, Florida – Ronald “Ron” L. Pressey, 60, of Ocoee, Florida, and Oakland, died peacefully, after battling cancer, on Monday, May 8, 2023. Ron was born on June 22, 1962, to Lynn and Pauline (Turner) Pressey.

He was a 1980 graduate of Messalonskee High School, in Oakland.

Ron worked maintenance at Mt. St. Joseph Nursing Home, in Waterville, Hussey’s General Store in Sporting Good, in Windsor, drove for PT Cab, of Waterville, but his favorite job was doing Dr. Ron DJ services doing weddings, anniversaries, etc.

Ron is survived by his stepson, Chris Roney and girlfriend Grace Hartung, of Waterville; his stepdaughter, Elizabeth Roney and boyfriend Lateef Pele; his step-grandchildren Jasimine, Catherine, Rafael, Aubrey, Sophia, Chanel and Drake. He also had several great-stepgrandchildren; his sisters Tracy Chartrand, of Winslow, Karen Cayford and husband Vance, of Benton, brothers Lynn Pressey and wife Phoebe, of Wells, George (Jody) Pressey and wife Charlene, of Chelsey, and Shawn Pressey, of Waterville; as well as several nieces and nephews.

There will be no funeral services by his request.

A Celebration of Life will be held on July 15, 2 p.m. at the home of Karen Cayford, 43 Averill Mobile Home Park, Benton.

LORETTE MARTIN

FAIRFIELD – Lorette Martin has passed away. Lorette was born February 18, 1951, the daughter to the late Leo and Laurence (Maheu) LeClair. Just one of six siblings.

Just like her mother she was the most dedicated and giving person. As a close family they built a bond that was stronger than anything. A true foundation of family and faith would guide Lorette through her lifelong journey.

She was educated in the Fairfield schools and was a 1969 graduate of Lawrence High School.

Lorette met her husband Joseph “Ricky” Martin on a blind date, Valentine’s Day 1969. Soon they were engaged on April 9, 1969, and married December 13, 1969. Together they built a wonderful life with the addition of their four children. The four T’s: Timmy, Tommy, Terry, and Tori. Over 54 years together they gave an example of what love should be. Often, you’d find them dancing in the kitchen to one of their favorite songs.

Lorette worked hard all her life, often sacrificing her needs to give to others. Growing up there were always fond memories of her working at the family Maheu Farm, the Waterville IHOP and Scott Paper Co, in Winslow. Everyone knew of her work ethic. She always did what needed to be done.

After the mill closed, she worked at Huhtamaki, in Waterville. While there she was given the opportunity to go back to school. Lorette became a medical coder for Maine General MDFP, and to no surprise when she retired in 2016 it took three people to replace her. Retirement meant more time with family. Never missing a game, concert, or event for her 11 grandchildren. By far her most favorite role was that of Mémère. You could always hear her in the crowd, the biggest cheerleader and the greatest fan of her children and grandchildren. She wore blue and gray with pride.

Lorette was a wonderful cook, especially her Sunday dinners or big family meals. They all knew fresh cookies meant Terry would be coming home to visit. Her cookie jar was hardly ever empty. She enjoyed drawing, gardening, playing cards with her sisters and their yearly vacation at camp. She loved crafts, often making them with her daughter and grandchildren. Her generosity and selflessness were a testimony to who she was; often a staple volunteering in the MSAD #49 community, she was passionate about helping her son Tim with the Brady Martin Memorial Thanksgiving Drive every year.

She’d do anything to help others in need because she was grateful for what she had in Life. Lorette was the first to bring a comforting meal or make a donation. Her warm smile made you feel at home. She was a hugger, pulled you right in. During her illness her faith never wavered.

Lorette was predeceased by her parents; her in-laws, Clinton and Doris Martin; her sister Lucille McCannon; and grandson Brady Martin.

She is survived by her husband Joseph; her sons, Timothy (Michelle), Thomas (Kirstie), and Terry; and her daughter Tori Richards (James); grandchildren, Kimberlyn (Mike), Cody (Bri), Curtis (Katie), Katelyn (Zenawi), Kaylie (Jake), Cassie (Hunter), Preston, Allie, Cooper, and Brock; great-grandson Greyson; siblings, Paul McCannon, Geraldine Shirley, Leona (Leo) Moses, Louise (Larry) Grenier, Dicky (Linda) LeClair; many nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held on July 10, at Notre Dame Church, 116 Silver Street, in Waterville. Burial immediately followed at St. Francis Cemetery, in Waterville. A Celebration of Life was held after burial at the Victor Grange, in Fairfield Center.

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

Arrangements are by Lawry Brothers Funeral Home & Cremation Care, 107 Main Street, Fairfield, ME

In lieu of flowers, honor Lorette’s Legacy of Giving Back to the Community. Please donate to the Lorette Martin Scholarship Memorial Fund, c/o Tim Martin. For more information, please email tim@cornerstonefinancial-inc.com.

VASSALBORO: KWD only beneficiary of solar power development

/0 Comments/in , /by
by Mary Grow

Vassalboro planning board members had on their July 11 agenda four shoreland permit applications and a discussion of keeping phosphorus out of water bodies. They had in the audience two representatives of ReVison Energy to talk about a solar project that was not on the agenda.

In a short meeting, they learned one application had been withdrawn and one did not need their action; approved one permit; postponed another and the phosphorus discussion; and said Vassalboro’s new solar ordinance does not apply to ReVision’s project.

ReVision representatives Alexander Roberts-Pierel and Annalise Kukor were asking about the Kennebec Water District’s proposed solar development.

Roberts-Pierel said the project had received an interconnection permit from Central Maine Power Company just before Vassalboro’s local moratorium took effect in November 2022. The moratorium ended after voters at the June 2023 town meeting added commercial solar regulations to the town’s site review ordinance.

Roberts-Pierel said power generated by the KWD project will go into the grid, but it will be entirely credited against KWD’s usage. KWD will be “the sole beneficiary,” and no power will be sold to other entities.

In that case, planning board chairman Virginia Brackett said, the solar regulations do not apply. By the definition of “commercial solar energy system” in the ordinance, they apply only when the “primary purpose” is to sell power off-site.

Because of the area to be covered by the proposed solar panels, KWD will need an ordinary site review permit for the development. Roberts-Pierel said he would report to KWD officials and prepare an appropriate application.

The shoreland permit approved was for Stephen Hahn to enlarge the deck on his camp, at 5 Baker Road, on Webber Pond. The new deck will be slightly smaller than he originally requested, in order to meet ordinance requirements.

The postponed application was from Peter Tomasz, to enlarge a building, at 62 Three Mile Pond Road. Tomasz was not at the July 11 meeting, and board members reviewing the application found they had several questions for him.

His application was therefore postponed to the board’s August meeting.

Codes officer Robert Geaghan said the Town of Vassalboro does not need a permit from the planning board for proposed developments at Eagle Park, on Outlet Stream; the codes officer is authorized to act.

Town Manager Aaron Miller added that the town needs a state Department of Environmental Protection permit by rule for adding fill. He and Paul Mitnik (former codes officer and current planning board member) will take care of it.

The next regular Vassalboro planning board meeting night is Tuesday, Aug. 1.

Recreation dept. to see changes; Bog Road bridge replacement discussed

/0 Comments/in , /by
by Mary Grow

Vassalboro select board members’ July 13 topics covered the entire town, especially the northern half: continued discussion of the recreation program and the Vassalboro Sanitary District; a state Department of Transportation (MDOT) presentation on plans for a new bridge on Bog Road in 2025; a resident’s proposal for traffic control in East Vassalboro; and the board’s own meeting schedule through the end of November.

Some members of the current recreation committee and town recreation director Karen Hatch have had difficulty sorting out respective responsibilities. The committee in the past focused on youth sports; the town program Hatch directs is expanding to serve residents of all ages.

Town Manager Aaron Miller said he met with recreation committee members, talked with other residents and consulted the town’s attorney. On his recommendation, select board members voted unanimously to seek volunteers for an expanded recreation committee that will include individuals in charge of fundraising, baseball, basketball, soccer, softball, the snack shack at the town fields on Bog Road and senior programs and events.

Residents who would like to serve on the new recreation committee are invited to contact the town office. Appointments are to be made at the Aug. 17 select board meeting. Miller said the attorney advised him that the current sports commissioners may continue as usual in the interim.

After members are appointed to the expanded committee, Miller sees their first priority as revising committee bylaws to fit into the new town structure. Committee member Karen Howard reminded everyone that Vassalboro’s bylaws need to conform to the bylaws of the Augusta-based Dirigo League in which town sports teams play.

Select board chairman Chris French said reconciling the recreation committee bylaws with the town personnel policy should – and would – have been done soon after Hatch was hired, if board members had not been fully occupied with finding a new town manager and preparing for the 2023 town meeting and new fiscal year.

Discussion of Vassalboro Sanitary District (VSD) financial issues repeated concerns explained at the June 22 select board meeting: to cover its debts and current expenses, the district needs either to raise rates to levels some of its 200 customers say are higher than their annual tax bills, or to find other funding sources (see the June 29 issue of The Town Line, p. 2).

Miller said state Representative Richard Bradstreet had offered suggestions that VSD official Becky Goodrich said led to some financial help for some customers.

Part of the problem is an increase in the rate Winslow charges Vassalboro to send its sewage via Winslow to Waterville’s treatment plant. Select board members planned to request a meeting with Winslow officials. Miller offered to arrange it, and, if Winslow agreed, to host it.

Brian Nichols, a project manager in the MDOT bridge program, came to the July 13 select board meeting to ask permission to use town roads as a detour while the Meadow Brook bridge on Bog Road, between East Vassalboro and the Hussey Hill Road intersection, is replaced.

Nichols’ proposal is to close Bog Road and send traffic over Taber Hill and Gray roads. Before and after the detour, he said, MDOT and town representatives will inspect the roads; if the extra traffic does any damage, the state will pay to repair it.

At the end of the meeting, long after Nichols left, resident William Pullen pointed out that the sharp left (south) turn where Gray Road meets Taber Hill Road would be dangerous for big trucks going south. He recommended extending the detour north to Oak Grove Road, instead of using Gray Road.

Nichols would like an answer from the select board by September, when MDOT should have a final plan and be ready to seek bids. He expects construction in the summer of 2025, with Bog Road closed for about 45 days.

The current bridge was built in 1960 on 1911 abutments, Nichols said. It is no longer stable enough to be rebuilt one lane at a time, and there is no place to put a temporary bridge, leaving detouring traffic the only option.

East Vassalboro resident Raymond Adams proposed another traffic change: a four-way stop at the East Vassalboro four corners. Currently, drivers coming east off Bog Road and west off South Stanley Hill Road face stop signs; drivers on Main Street (Route 32) go through, mostly much faster than the 25-mile-an-hour speed limit, Adams said.

Ben Gidney, who also lives near the four corners, agreed speeding – and running the stop signs – are problems. But, he said, vehicles accelerating noisily away from the stop signs are another problem that would increase with two more signs.

Miller said he consulted with David Allen, Vassalboro resident and DOT regional engineer, who said if the town asked for additional stop signs or any other change, the department would evaluate the request.

Miller said Allen reported “one crash at the intersection within the last three years.” Gidney said Allen must count only serious accidents, as he has seen more than one.

After hearing other suggestions, like rumble strips, a blinking light or a portable sign recording drivers’ speeds, select board members decided to hold a public hearing at their Sept. 7 meeting.

North Vassalboro residents added that excessive speed is a problem in their village, too.

In other business July 13, board members:

  • Authorized Miller to sign a contract with Delta Ambulance to serve Vassalboro residents;
  • Agreed to set up an escrow account for receipts from sale of foreclosed properties;
  • Appointed Peter Soule an alternate member of the town conservation commission, to serve until 2026; and
  • Approved four permits for BYOB events.

Miller will follow up on resident Raymond Breton’s complaint about superfluous utility poles in North Vassalboro. At board chairman French’s suggestion, the manager will look into the cost of updating Vassalboro’s strategic plan, which was approved in June 2006.

Select board members agreed to consider at their Aug. 17 meeting questions for an opinion survey to be sent with tax bills.

After Aug. 17, they scheduled meetings for Sept. 7, Sept. 21, Oct. 5, Oct. 19, Nov. 2 and Nov. 16. On Nov. 30, instead of a third regular November meeting, they plan a workshop session to develop priorities for the rest of the fiscal year.

Samuel Schmitt named to Bryant University’s Spring 2023 dean’s list

/0 Comments/in , /by

Bryant University, in Smithfield, Rhode Island, is pleased to recognize Samuel Schmitt, of Winslow, for his unwavering commitment to academic excellence and achievement by naming him to the spring 2023 dean’s list.

China planners OK move for DC Customz

/0 Comments/in , /by
by Mary Grow

China planning board members approved the only application on their July 11 agenda, allowing Denver Cullivan to move his metal fabricating business, DC Customz, to an existing commercial building at 70 Waterville Road.

Board members decided no public hearing is needed, because the business will be in a building that has been commercial for years and no exterior changes are planned.

They found the business meets all criteria in relevant town ordinances and approved it unanimously.

Board member Walter Bennett questioned Cullivan about noise and about waste disposal. Cullivan replied that welding and other metal work will be done inside the building, and there will be no contaminants.

The new business will use the existing horseshoe driveway, which provides generous access for emergency vehicles. Cullivan plans no new exterior lighting.

DC Customz is currently located on Level Hill Road, in Palermo. Cullivan’s application said he has been in business for four years and needs a larger space.

In other business July 11, board members postponed continued review of the proposed solar ordinance because co-chairman Toni Wall, the prime drafter of the document, was absent.

Co-chairman James Wilkens, with the agreement of the rest of the board, commended secretary Dawn Kilgore for her comprehensive minutes. Those present thanked retiring codes officer Nicholas French for his excellent service and wished him and his wife Amber good luck as they move out of state.

French said he is working on a document to guide his successor. He added that town office staff have his telephone number and he will continue to answer calls after his employment officially ends July 28.

Planning board members voted in June to skip a second July meeting. Their next regular meeting is scheduled for Tuesday evening, Aug. 8.

China select board signs in reappointed town officials

/0 Comments/in , /by
by Mary Grow

China select board members had a short July 17 meeting, followed by a long signing session as they reappointed town officials and board and committee members for the fiscal year that began July 1.

The list of appointees began with town manager Rebecca Hapgood and included other officers and members of a dozen town committees. Some boards and committees have vacancies; anyone interested in serving on one is invited to look at the lists on the town website and apply there or contact the town office.

In other business, deputy clerk Jennifer Chamberlain, filling in while Hapgood was on vacation, presented reports from other town office staff.

Assessor Kelly Grotton reported that the legislature repealed the new-last-year senior citizens’ property tax relief program, because of its potential cost. In its place, legislators expanded eligibility for two other programs, the property tax fairness credit and the property tax deferral program, so that more taxpayers will qualify for one or both.

China residents over 65 do not need to request a new application for the expiring relief program, Grotton said. The program continues through 2023; those who enrolled last year should receive a 2023-24 tax bill no higher than the one they received for 2022-2023.

Summer intern Bailee Mallett said she is working to set up a China farmers’ market.

Town clerk Angela Nelson said nomination papers for local elective office will be available Monday, July 31. Signed papers are due back at the town office by Friday, Sept. 8, for candidates’ names to be on the Nov. 7 local ballot.

To be elected on Nov. 7 are:

  • Two members of the select board (Wayne Chadwick’s and Jeanne Marquis’ terms end);
  • Planning board members from district 1 (northwestern China; Michael Brown is the incumbent) and district 3 (southeastern China; Walter Bennett is the incumbent) and the alternate at large (Natale Tripodi is the incumbent); and
  • Budget committee members from district 1 (Kevin Maroon is the incumbent) and district 3 (Michael Sullivan is the incumbent) and the chairman (elected from the town at large; Thomas Rumpf is the incumbent).

The District 4 (southwestern China) planning board seat is vacant, and budget committee secretary Trishea Story (elected from the town at large) has resigned.

Director of Public Services Shawn Reed reported the new portable traffic lights have been used as the town crew repairs roads, and the roadside mowing is finished.

The next regular China select board meeting is scheduled for Monday evening, July 31. It will be preceded by a public discussion of the South China boat landing, starting at 5:30 p.m. in the town office meeting room.

PHOTOS: Sheepscot boat parade enjoys good turnout

/0 Comments/in , , /by

Sheepscot Lake Association hosted their fifth annual boat parade on July 3. Despite the weather, this year’s parade was a big success, with 21 boats and a jet ski participating, and several camp residents along the lake cheering on from the shoreline. Tim Paul, former board member for many years, served as grand marshal (waving from boat). (contributed photo)

(contributed photo)

Free community college extended two more years

/0 Comments/in , , /by

photo: Janet Mills, Facebook

Governor Mills signs budget funding free college scholarships for high school classes of 2024-25

Tuition-free community college in Maine was extended to two more graduating high school classes under the budget passed by the legislature and signed on July 11 by Governor Janet Mills.

The $15 million investment will allow students graduating from high school or its equivalent in 2024 and 2025 to attend any Maine community college without paying any tuition or mandatory fees – a value of more than $3,800 a year.

“Extending Free College to the classes of 2024 and 2025 tells today’s high school students that the State of Maine believes in them and is willing to invest in them and their future,” said Maine Community College System (MCCS) President David Daigler.

“The scholarship means they won’t have to work multiple jobs while they study or take just one or two classes at a time because they can’t afford more. They’ll have time to focus on learning a trade or becoming a nurse or a police officer or a chef, or pursuing any of the hundreds of degrees or one-year certificates we offer. And they’ll graduate as the kind of skilled workers Maine desperately needs right now and for years into the future. It’s a bold move that benefits workers, employers, and the entire state of Maine,” Daigler said.

Following a proposal from Governor Mills, Maine launched the Free Community College program in April 2022 with a one-time state investment of $20 million, benefiting the pandemic-era high school graduates from 2020-2023. In the first year, 6,400 students attended community college tuition-free.

Earlier this year, some students told lawmakers what a difference the program made for them. Maya Eichorn, now a top student at York County Community College, said she wasn’t even considering college.

“One year ago … I was dropping out (of high school) to take the HiSET exam,” she said. “Today, I am a full-time college student with a 4.0. Without the Maine Free College program, I would be aimlessly moving through life.”

Tuition-free education at Maine’s community colleges is also available to current high school students through OnCourse, an early college program, and for anyone enrolled in most short-term workforce training programs. More information about the Free College Scholarship is available here.

Scouts leadership group completes training

/0 Comments/in , , , , /by

Adam Wright, of Lewiston, Doug Woodbury, of Rockport, and Jon Martin, of Augusta, demonstrate round lashings. They learned the skill so they can then instruct their Scouts on the skill. (photo courtesy of Chuck Mahaleris)

by Chuck Mahaleris

Leaders from Cub Packs and Scout Troops around the area recently completed a variety of training programs. “It is encouraging to see so many scout leaders coming out to learn new skills,” said Walter Fails, of Farmington, who is the Chairman of Training for Scout Troops in Kennebec Valley District. “Every scout deserves a trained leader because trained leaders deliver better and safer Scouting programs.”

At Camp Boma­zeen, in Belgrade, 20 scouting leaders from across Pine Tree Council completed the Basic Adult Leader Outdoor Orientation (BALOO) Training for Cub Scout leaders and the Introduction to Outdoor Leader Skills (IOLS) Training for leaders in Scout Troops. The training courses were held over the weekend of May 5-7. Both programs provide an opportunity for leaders to learn how to offer Scouting’s outdoor programs safely. “We all had a great time sharing experiences and knowledge,” said Scott St. Amand, of Gardiner, who heads up Cub Scout Leader Training for Kennebec Valley District and was one of the trainers for the weekend. “It was great to see the camaraderie, and willingness to jump in and help each other learn new skills.”

Of those completing the leaders program, it included area IOLS Training: Christopher Bishop, of Whitefield, who is a leader in Troop #609 B(Boys), in Windsor, Jon Martin, of Troop #603 B, in Augusta, Stephen Polley, is a leader, in Vassalboro Troop #410, Shawn Hayden, of Skowhegan Troop #485 B.

Those locally completing requirements for the BALOO Training: Frederick Pullen, of Pack #445, in Winslow, and Christopher Santiago, of Pack #410, in Vassalboro. Santiago also recently completed more than 500 hours of online training to complete the District Committee functions. Chris Fox, of Mechnic Falls, is the Abnaki District Training Chairman and helped with the training at Camp Bomazeen.

Shelley Connolly, of Pittsfield, completed Short Term Camp Administrator training with Western Los Angeles County Council on April 29. Shelley is going to be running the Summer Camporee, at Camden Hills State Park, July 30-August 1, and she will be helping set up the schedule, program, etc., for the Scouts BSA Weekend at Bomazeen.