LEGAL NOTICES for Thursday, June 29, 2023

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STATE OF MAINE
PROBATE COURT
COURT ST.,
SKOWHEGAN, ME
SOMERSET, ss
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
18-A MRSA sec. 3-801

The following Personal Representatives have been appointed in the estates noted. The first publication date of this notice June 22 & 29, 2023. If you are a creditor of an estate listed below, you must present your claim within four months of the first publication date of this Notice to Creditors by filing a written statement of your claim on a proper form with the Register of Probate of this Court or by delivering or mailing to the Personal Representative listed below at the address published by his name, a written statement of the claim indicating the basis therefore, the name and address of the claimant and the amount claimed or in such other manner as the law may provide. See 18-C M.R.S.A. §3-80.

2023-169 – Estate of JULIA M. BROWN, late of Norridgewock, Maine deceased. Doreen L. Brown, 229 Ward Hill Rd, Norridgewock, Maine 04657 appointed Personal Representative.

2023-170 – Estate of CARLA DILLON-JONES, late of Madison, Maine deceased. Heidi Atwood, 654 Embden, Maine 04950 appointed Personal Representative.

2023-171 – Estate of BRUCE SCOTT BAGNOLE, late of Cornville, Maine, deceased. Wendy Melissa Bagnole, 31 Hidden Valley Dr., Cornville, Maine 04976 appointed Personal Representative.

2023-172 – Estate of KENNETH A. HOGATE, late of Cornville, Maine deceased. Brenda Hogate, 161 West Ridge Rd., Cornville, Maine 04976 appointed Personal Representative.

2023-173 – Estate of TABATHA LYNN LaFLAMME, late of Fairfield, Maine deceased. Linda Harwood, 325 Martin Stream Rd., Fairfield, Maine 04937 appointed Personal Representative.

2023-177 – Estate of PATRICIA L. WILDE, late of Norridgewock, Maine deceased. Elisabeth
Goodwin, 1309 Grace Point Rd., Morrisville, NC 25760 appointed Personal Representative.

2023-178 – Estate of HAROLD J. HOUSTON, late of Stetson, Maine deceased. Colter J. Houston, 397 East Newport Rd, Stetson, Maine 04488 appointed Personal Representative.

2023-180 – Estate of ELLERY G. WITHAM, late of Embden, Maine deceased. Allen French, 33 Otter Road, Madison, Maine 04950 appointed Personal Representative.

2023-182 – Estate of JUDITH A. PAPADOPOULOS, late of Solon, Maine deceased. Jason A. Ryan, 254 Shore Rd., Salem, NH 03079 appointed Personal Representative.

2023-184 – Estate of JOSEPH CATES, late of Madison, Maine deceased. Darrell J. Cates, 54 Hidden Acres Dr., Madison, Maine 04950 appointed Personal Representative.

2023-186 – Estate of DANIEL P. MICHAUD, late of Fairfield, Maine deceased. Daniel P. Michaud, Jr., 140 Taft Ave., Ventura, CA 93003 appointed Personal Representative.

2023-189 – Estate of PATRICK J. LECLAIR, late of Skowhegan, Maine deceased. Pamela A. Fuller, 21 Pennell St, Skowhegan, Maine 04976 appointed Personal Representative.

2023-191 – Estate of STEPHEN J. MATTHEWS, late of Norridgewock, Maine deceased. Sandra Matthews of 16 Cowette St., Skowhegan, Maine appointed Personal Representatives.

2023-192 – Estate of SARAH HAMMOND, late of Pittsfield, Maine deceased. Eric Shayne Hammond of 186 North Main St, Pittsfield, Maine appointed Personal representative.

2023-193 – Estate of CAROLYN ANN BOWRING, late of Skowhegan, Maine deceased. Merton C. Bowring, Jr. of 22 Blair St., Skowhegan, Maine appointed Personal Representative.

2023-195 – Estate of MARK ONAL MUNN, late of Athens, Maine deceased. Hilary B. Pelletier of 201 Windsor Rd., China, Maine and Katie Munn of 316 Windham Center Rd., Windham, Maine appointed Co- Personal Representatives.

2023-196 – Estate of IVAN CHADBOURNE, late of Harmony, Maine deceased. Tracy Guilbert, 18 Castle Rd., Harmony, Maine and Neil C. Chadbourne of 97 Laughton Rd., Ripley, Maine appointed Co-Personal Representatives.

2023-197 – Estate of ELEANOR J. KETCHUM, late of Embden, Maine deceased. John W. Smith, 200 Clark’s Cove Rd., Walpole, Maine appointed Personal Representative.

2023-201 – Estate of DANA CLIFFORD DAVIS, late of Skowhegan, Me deceased. Dean W. Davis, 90 Linton Street, So. Portland, Me 04106 appointed Personal Representative.

TO BE PUBLISHED JUNE 22, 2023

Dated June 16, 2023
/s/ Victoria Hatch,
Register of Probate
(6/29)

SPECIAL PROBATE NOTICE

TO ALL WHOM IT MAY CONCERN

It is hereby ORDERED that notice of the following matter be given to all persons interested by causing a copy of this order to be published once a week, two weeks successively before SEPTEMBER 12, 2023, in THE TOWN LINE, a newspaper published in So. China, Maine.

Petition for Formal Appointment of Special Administrator, Estate of Raymond Roberts, Docket No. 2023-111-1 is pending in the Somerset County Probate Court in which unknown heirs of unknown address, may have an interest. The other interested parties are Maine Highlands Federal Credit Union, Christopher Brooks, Esq., Drummond, Woodsum & MacMahon, 84 Marginal Way, Suite 600, Portland, Maine 04101.

This matter will be heard at a Probate Court to be held at Somerset County Probate Court, 41 Court Street, Skowhegan, Me 04976 on September 12, 2023, at 10:30 A.M., at which time and place any person interested may then and there appear and be heard if he/she see cause. You should contact the Court by telephone at 207-474-3322 or write to the Court at Somerset Probate Court, 41 Court Street, Skowhegan, Me 04976. Failure to contact the Court of the first publication of this notice will result in a default and substantial loss of rights.

/s/ Robert M. Washburn,

Judge of Probate

A true copy of the original
Attest: /s/ Victoria Hatch,
Register of Probate
(6/29)

STATE OF MAINE
PROBATE COURT
COUNTY OF SOMERSET
SKOWHEGAN, MAINE
Docket No. AA-0217-1

In Re: Channing Mae Robichaud
Minor Child

ORDER FOR SERVICE
BY PUBLICATION

This cause came to be heard on the Motion for Service by Publication by Petitioners, Skylar Durant and Kobe Durant, 137 Schoodic Lake Road, Brownville, ME 04419, for service by publication upon BRANSON CURTIS, pursuant to Maine Rule of Civil Procedure 4 (g) and Rule of Probate Procedure 4(c) (2), and it appearing that this is an action for Termination of Parental Rights brought by the Petitioners Skylar and Kobe Durant against BRANSON CURTIS; and that BRANSON CURTIS cannot with due diligence, be served by any other prescribed method; and that the address of BRANSON CURTIS is not known and cannot be ascertained by reasonable diligence; and it is ORDERED that the Petition to Terminate Parental Rights be heard before this Court at 41 Court St., Skowhegan, ME on September 12, 2023, at 1 p.m. or as soon therefter as it can be heard, and it is ORDERED that BRANSON CURTIDS appear and defend the cause and file a written response to the Petition by delivering it in person or by mailing it to the Office of the Register of Probate, 41 Court Street, Skowhegan, ME 04976, and by mailing a copy thereof to the Petitioners at their said address on or before September 12, 2023, 1 p.m.

IMPORTANT WARNING: IF YOU FAIL TO FILE A RESPONSE WITHIN THE TIME STATED ABOVE, OR IF, AFTER YOU FILE YOUR RESPONSE, YOU FAIL TO APPEAR AT ANY TIME THE COURT NOTIFIES YOU TO DO SO, A JUDGMENT MAY, IN YOUR ABSENCE, BE ENTERED AGAINST YOU FOR THE RELIEF REQUESTED. IF YOU DO NOT FILE A RESPONSE, YOU MUST FILE A WRITTEN APPEARANCE WITH THE CLERK IF YOU WISH TO BE HEARD. IF YOU INTEND TO OPPOSE THE PETITION DO NOT FAIL TO ANSWER WITHIN THE REQUIRED TIME.

AN ORDER TERMINATING BRANSON CURTIS’ PARENTAL RIGHTS WILL DIVEST SAID BRANSON CURTIS and CHANNING MAE ROBICHAUD OF ALL LEGAL RIGHT, POWERS, PRIVILEGES, IMMUNITIES, DUTIES AND OBLIGATIONS TO EACH OTHER AS PARENT AND CHILD, EXCEPT THE INHERITANCE RIGHTS BETWEEN THE CHILD AND HIS/HER PARENT. FURTHERMORE, BRANSON CURTIS SHALL NOT BE ENTITLED TO NOTICE OF THE CHILD’S ADOPTION PROCEEDINGS, NOR SHALL HE HAVE ANY RIGHT TO OBJECT OR PARTICIPATE IN THE PROCEEDINGS, AND SAID ORDER SHALL HAVE ALL OTHER EFFECTS SET FORTH IN 22 M.R.S.A. §4056.

If you believe you have a defense to the Petition, or if you believe you have a claim of your own against the Petitioners, you should talk to a lawyer. If you feel you cannot afford to pay a fee to a lawyer, you may ask the office of the Register of Probate at 41 Court Street, Skowhegan, Maine 04976 or any other Register of Probate, for information as to places where you may seek legal assistance.

It is further ORDERED that this Order be published in The Town Line, a weekly newspaper published in South China, Maine, once a week for three (3) consecutive weeks.

Dated June 15, 2023

/s/ Robert Washburn
Judge of Probate

A true copy of the original,
Attest:
/s/ Victoria M. Hatch
Register of Probate
(7/13)

Up and down the Kennebec Valley: The story of Independence Day

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by Mary Grow

Local historians make some references to Independence Day celebrations

According to Wikipedia, celebrating Independence Day on July 4 each year is most likely an error.

The writer of the on-line site’s article on this national holiday says that the Second Continental Congress, meeting in a closed session, approved Virginia representative Richard Henry Lee’s resolution declaring the United States independent of Great Britain on July 2, 1776.

Knowing the decision was coming, a five-man committee headed by Thomas Jefferson spent much of June drafting the formal declaration that would justify the dramatic action. After debating and amending the draft, Congress approved the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776 – having approved the act of independence two days earlier.

Wikipedia further says that although some Congressmen later said they signed the declaration on July 4, “[m]ost historians” think the signing was really not until Aug. 2, 1776.

The article includes a quotation from a July 3, 1776, letter from John Adams, of Massachusetts, to his wife, Abigail. Adams wrote that “[t]he second day of July 1776…will be celebrated by succeeding generations as the great anniversary festival.”

Adams recommended the day “be commemorated as the day of deliverance, by solemn acts of devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations, from one end of this continent to the other, from this time forward forever more.”

And so it has been – two days late.

Wikipedia says July 4 celebrations began in 1777, in Philadelphia, where the observance included an “official dinner” for members of the Continental Congress, and in Bristol, Rhode Island. The Massachusetts General Court was the first state legislature to make July 4 a state holiday, in 1781, while Maine was part of Massachusetts.

Windsor historian Linwood Lowden mentioned the importance of the local Liberty Pole as part of Independence Day observances. Liberty Poles, he explained were put up after the Declaration of Independence as symbols of freedom. Many later became town flagpoles; Windsor’s, at South Windsor Corner (the current junction of routes 32 and 17), was still called a Liberty Pole in 1873.

The central Kennebec Valley towns covered in this history series have quite probably celebrated the holiday annually, or almost annually, since each was organized. As with other topics, local historians’ interest, and the amount of available information, vary from town to town.

James North’s history of Augusta is again a valuable resource. He described Independence Day celebrations repeatedly, beginning with 1804 (it was in 1797 that Augusta separated from Hallowell and, after less than four months as Harrington, became Augusta).

In 1804, North describes two celebrations, divided by politics. The Democrats, or Democratic-Republicans (the party of Thomas Jefferson, James Madison and others) gathered at the courthouse, where Rev. Thurston Whiting addressed them.

(Whiting is listed in on-line sources as a Congregationalist. He preached in Newcastle, Warren and before 1776 in Winthrop, where he “was invited to settle but declined,” according to a church history excerpted on line. He preached in Hallowell in 1775 [then described as “a young man”], and in 1791 is listed in Hallowell records as solemnizing the marriage of two members of prominent Augusta families, James Howard, Esquire, and Susanna Cony.)

The Federalists (the party of Alexander Hamilton, John Jay and others) began celebrating at dawn with “a discharge of cannon,” North wrote. They organized a parade at the courthouse that went across the Kennebec and back to the meeting house where an aspiring young lawyer, Henry Weld Fuller, gave a speech. The day ended with a banquet at the Kennebec House (a local hotel that often hosted such events), during which participants “drank seventeen regular toasts highly seasoned with federalism.”

(Hon. Henry Weld Fuller [1784-Jan. 29, 1841], born in Connecticut, graduated from Dartmouth in 1801, studied law and came to Augusta in 1803. He married Ester or Esther Gould [1785-1866], on Dec. 21, 1805, or Jan. 7, 1806 [sources differ]. They had seven children, including Henry Weld Fuller II [1810-1889], who in turn fathered Henry Weld Fuller III [1839-1863], who died without issue. North wrote that the senior Fuller served in the Massachusetts legislature in 1812 and 1816 and in the Maine legislature in 1837. He was appointed Kennebec County attorney in 1826 and was a Judge of Probate from 1828 until he died. His grandson, Henry III’s brother Melville Weston Fuller, was Chief Justice of the United States Supreme Court.)

By the summer of 1807, the Democratic Republicans had elected one of their number, James Sullivan, as governor of Massachusetts, and the Maine party members “were in high spirits,” North wrote. On July 4, they heard an oration by Rev. Joshua Cushman, of Winslow, and partook of a dinner for 150 people in lavishly decorated courthouse.

Cushman’s speech was published; North wrote that “it attacked federalism with more vigor of denunciation than truthfulness or discretion.”

(Wikipedia says Rev. Joshua Cushman [April 11, 1761 – Jan. 27, 1834] was a Revolutionary War veteran who graduated from Harvard in 1787 and became a minister, serving Winslow’s Congregational Church for almost two decades. He was a member of the United States House of Representatives representing Massachusetts from 1819 to 1821, and with Maine statehood continued as a Maine member until 1825. He had just been elected to the Maine House of Representatives when he died. Wikipedia says “He was interred in a tomb on the State grounds in Augusta.”)

By July 4, 1810, the Augusta Light Infantry had been organized and paraded as part of the Federalist celebration, which North believed was held in Hallowell. He listed a parade including the Light Infantry as part of the 1810 and 1812 celebrations as well.

Because 1826 was the 50th anniversary of independence, Augusta officials organized an all-day celebration, North wrote. It began with a “discharge of cannon and ringing of bells” at dawn and continued with a parade, a ceremony, another parade, a dinner and fireworks set off on both sides of the Kennebec.

One of Augusta’s most prominent residents, Hon. Daniel Cony (Aug. 3, 1752 – Jan 21, 1842), presided at the banquet. Attendees included General John Chandler (Feb. 1, 1762 – Sept. 25, 1841), then in his second term as a United States Senator; Peleg Sprague (April 27, 1793 – Oct. 13, 1880), then a member of the United States House of Representatives and later a U.S. Senator; and “some officers of the army and navy who were engaged in the survey of the Kennebec.”

Also present, North wrote, was Hon. Nathan Weston (March 17, 1740 – Nov. 17, 1832), whom Cony introduced as the “venerable gentleman” who served in the Revolutionary army and fought at Saratoga with him. North wrote that Weston “briefly review[ed]…the events which preceded and led to the war of the revolution, noticing the severity of the struggle and the spirit which brought triumphant success, gave the following toast: ‘The spirit of ’76 ­ – alive and unspent after fifty years.'”

(North’s history includes two biographical sections on this Nathan Weston, whom he usually called Capt., and his son, also Nathan Weston, who was a judge and whom North usually called Hon. North did not write anything about Capt. Weston’s military service after the French and Indian wars. However, the younger Nathan Weston was born in 1782 and could not have fought in the Revolution.)

By July 4, 1829, Augusta had been designated Maine’s new state capital (succeeding Portland), and Independence Day was chosen as the day to lay the cornerstone of the State House, leading to “unusual ceremonies and festivity,” North wrote.

The celebration began, as usual, with bells and a 24-gun salute at dawn; continued with a parade featuring the Augusta Light Infantry, many speeches and a banquet; and was climaxed by fireworks set off on both sides of the Kennebec.

One more Independence Day celebration North thought worth describing was the 1832 observance. That year, he wrote, for the first time since 1811, the two political parties – by then the National Republicans and the Democrats – “each had separate processions, addresses and dinners.”

The Democrats got “part of” the Augusta Light Infantry and a band from Waterville for their parade and held their dinner in the State House. The Republicans’ parade incorporated “the Hallowell Artillery and Sidney Rifles, each with a band of music, and the Hallowell and Augusta band.” Their dinner was in the Augusta House.

The local Republican newspaper, identified by North as the Journal, claimed 2,000 people in the Republican parade. The Democratic Age estimated only 700 in the Democrats’ parade, but claimed 1,000 at the State House meal, versus only 400 or 500 at the Republican dinner.

North wrote that the Journal admitted the Democrats fed a larger crowd, but, North quoted, said snidely, “probably half of them dined at free cost.”

Windsor historian Lowden was another who described an occasional Fourth of July celebration, quoting from diaries kept in the 1870s and 1880s by residents Roger Reeves and Orren Choate.

In 1874, Reeves described “Bells, cannon guns, pistols, rockets, bomb shells, fire crackers” on Water Street, but “very little rum” and “no rows.” (Windsor no longer has a Water Street, and your writer failed to find an old map with street names.)

Two years later, Reeves’ family went to the Togus veterans’ home “to see the greased pig caught,” while Reeves himself intended “to celebrate in the hay field.” And in 1878 Reeves again worked all day, earning “a dollar and a pair of slippers” for whitewashing a barn. In the evening he went “up on the hill and played croquet by lamp light.”

Choate went to Weeks Mills for the 1885 Independence Day celebration (he was 17 that year, Lowden said), and wrote that it included races and a dance and he didn’t get home until midnight.

The next year, 1886, July 4 was a Sunday, so the celebration was on Monday. Choate got up at 2 a.m. to join relatives and friends for a trip to Augusta’s celebration, from which they got home at 3 the following morning. “We had a good time,” he wrote, without providing details.

Other local historians made occasional comments about Independence Day celebrations – for example, the Fairfield bicentennial history says that Fairfield’s Civil War monument was dedicated on July 4, 1868.

Your writer hopes that readers remember enjoyable, perhaps moving, ceremonies from years past and will have a safe and fun holiday this year.

Main sources

Fairfield Historical Society, Fairfield, Maine 1788-1988 (1988).
Lowden, Linwood H., good Land & fine Contrey but Poor roads a history of Windsor, Maine (1993).
North, James W., The History of Augusta (1870).

Websites, miscellaneous.

MY POINT OF VIEW: Continental Congress unanimously adopted Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776

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by Gary Kennedy

The usage of Independence Day would be, and is known to all as the 4th of July. When we speak of it in this way it becomes clear as to its real meaning as each of us know and understand it. I state this as we recently have had an influx of immigrations which most likely are unfamiliar with this date in time and to its meaning. When those new comers become fully acclimated to the life and history of this, their new home/country, its importance will become clear to them. It will become to them, as it is to us, who have grown up with the knowledge of this event, and how and why it occurred. For now, as we do every year, we will share a definition as to the meaning and its importance in our lives. Independence Day (4th of July) is revered by Americans as it is indicative of ultimate and unconditional freedom from tyranny and religious persecution; as well as prejudice and slavery.

Some say the growth of the most powerful nation on God’s green Earth, made not only immigration necessary but also slavery. All of that may be in fact true but we now admit, that didn’t make it right. Although most of this happened generations ago we still find need to say, “I’m sorry, but thank you for your sacrifice”. Unfortunately, we are still trying to get it right. We try to right the wrongs of the past but it seems the present creates new ones. However, being a democracy has the benefit of allowing us to make corrections and adjustments as we travel through time. Each generation seems to seek a better tomorrow and yet we see millions of immigrants reaching our shores in search of a better life. So that speaks volumes for the why of it all. America is the land of the free and home of the brave.

On July 4, 1776, the 2nd Continental Congress unanimously adopted the Declaration of Independence, which announced the colonies’ separation from Great Britain. We officially became the United States of America. The significance of this date in time gave us George Washington, lovingly known as the father of this country and our first president. It was truly a time to celebrate as we were free from Great Britain and also the Revolutionary War was rolled into history. On August 2, 1776, 56 Lovers of Freedom signed the Declaration of Independence. This for the time being severed all political ties with Great Britain. I state political ties as it would not have been wise to sever economic ties with the most economic country in the world at the time. We crossed this path several times in history, China being the most recent. Some doors need to remain open, if at all possible, while slowly disenfranchising those that give unfair advantage to the overall situation.

In 1787 the United States Constitution was written, ratified in 1788 and in full operation in 1789. The U.S. Constitution is the world’s longest serving written charter of government. “We The People”, affirms that the government of the U.S.A. exists to serve its citizens.

The framing of the Constitution was completed at the Constitutional Convention which assembled at Independence Hall, in Philadelphia, between May 25 and September 17, 1787.

The founding fathers signed the Declaration of Independence as well as helped draft the Constitution. They also became the political leaders of the time. Obviously, they were brilliant men and collectively they forged an amazing document which has stood the test of time. This is the umbrella under which we live and guide our actions towards one another. It is without a doubt one of the most genius documents ever written and has stood the test of time.

I would be remiss in this narration if I didn’t explain our structure which consists of the three branches of government, the Legislative; the Executive and the Judicial. This is the structure that affirms the indisputable strength of our government.

These branches are given certain powers which complement each other and allow us to be known as a Democracy. They give each of us fair representation in our government. Briefly stated the Legislative branch makes the laws of the United States, controls all of the money and has the power to declare war. The Executive is the President of the United States who oversees and directs, guides and tempers our government. He/she enforces the laws of the United States, spends money as allowed by Congress, can declare states of emergency, appoints judges to the Supreme Court and can grant pardons for crimes. The Judicial branch is the Supreme Court which interprets laws, judges when a law is unconstitutional.

So that all is fair and in order we have a system called checks and balances. The president has the power to veto a bill; Congress has the power to impeach Supreme Court judges or even the president. The Supreme Court has the power to veto a law that they deem unconstitutional.

Over 100 countries around the world have used our constitution as a model of their own. Our supreme court continually interprets the constitution as the world evolves. However, its basic tenets have remained virtually unchanged. There is sometimes a quarrel over its interpretation but they never question its wisdom. The leaders and formers of our country created a pathway document the could and would stand the test of time, all time. They were brilliant, the documents were/are brilliant and I am sure they will remain that way through time. Our beloved George Washington said, “The Constitution is the guide, which I never will abandon.”

The records which create 4th of July are only second to the records of the Bible. I recommend everyone should go to their favorite book store and look up the documents mentioned here but most importantly research the founding fathers. There is wonderful reading regarding the lives of each. In doing so you will understand this country and what and who it took to create it.

Have a wonderful 4th of July. Enjoy the food, fireworks and family. Be forever thankful for the wonders of this country and the why, of why so many seek to come here. Thank God for the freedoms we have and the reasons for them. Last but certainly not least thank the veterans who give so much in the preservation of democracy and freedom. Keep America strong. Happy 4th of July and God bless.

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

EVENTS: Summer scouting programs available

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Summer programs will be active and enriching for youth attending area scout camps and scout activities according to two leaders of these programs. Brittany St. Amand, of Pittston, and Shelley Connolly, of Pittsfield, have spent months organizing and getting things ready for outstanding summer programs.

Brittany St. Amand will be the Cub Scout Day Camp Director at Camp Gustin, in Sabattus, and Camp Hinds, in Raymond, this summer. She is also the Webelo Leader in Gardiner Cub Pack #672.

Cub Scout Day Camps, with the “Off to the Races” theme, will be run July 17-21, at Camp Gustin, July 24-28, at Camp Bomazeen, in Belgrade, led by Julie McKenney, of Belgrade, and August 7-11, at Camp Hinds.

At Cub Scout Day Camp, leaders provide adventures and an opportunity for your Cub Scout (or Cub Scout-aged youth) to enjoy Cub Scout activities in a day camp style setting. Cub Scouts earn requirements for rank advancement, special awards and gain recognition. Cub Day Camp is for youth in first through fifth grade. Youth entering first grade in the fall are welcome at camp, however an adult/parent needs to accompany them. And, Cub Scout Packs can register and attend Cub Scout Day Camp as a group. Day Camp, which runs Monday through Friday from 8:15 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., is often a youth’s first major experience in scouting with their peers, under the guidance of trained and caring adult volunteer leaders. If you can attend with your child as a leader (a member of our racing pit crew), you will receive $100 off the cost of camp for their child. For more information on volunteering at camp, email Leah Barry at leahbarry@ptcbsa.org.

Preparing for camp takes months of organization and they must follow all State of Maine and Scouting requirements to operate.

In addition to these programs, Pine Tree Council also offers Family FunPack Weekend on July 29-30 at Camp Bomazeen; Webelos Resident Camp at Camp Hinds July 30 – August 2; and Scout camp at Camp Hinds runs through the month of July including hiking, swimming, boating, rock climbing, Scoutcraft and STEM and older scouts can challenge themselves with Project COPE (Challenging Outdoor Personal Experience).

Those who have questions about these programs can contact Brittany at B.STAMANDSCOUTS@GMAIL.COM; Shelley at bsatroop428 maine@ gmail.com or if you have questions about any of the summer activities, contact Leah at Pine Tree Council If you have questions or need help, contact Leah at leahbarry@ptcbsa.org (207) 517-6196.

OPINIONS: Internet access for many may be at risk

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COMMUNITY COMMENTARY

by Kim Lindlof
President, CEO Mid-Maine Chamber of Commerce

In response to our nation’s increased reliance on high-speed Internet, both the Trump and Biden Administrations have taken important steps to provide connectivity to those that need it, particularly in rural areas. An invaluable program that’s been created in recent years to enable this is the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), which over 18 million American households are currently enrolled in. The ACP enables eligible Americans to overcome the obstacle of affordability by providing a monthly voucher which can be used on the cost of an Internet subscription. When combined with the low-income offerings made available by many of the nation’s leading providers that participate in the program, the voucher can make the cost of a subscription free for qualifying low-income families. Here in Maine, over 82,000 households are enrolled in the ACP, while another 150,000 are eligible to enroll.

Unfortunately, the ACP faces an existential threat that could eliminate Internet access for the over 18 million American households that rely on the program – its funding will run out sometime in 2024. Extending its funding to ensure that the program continues to exist should be an urgent priority for lawmakers regardless of partisanship.

A CNBC poll earlier this year found that the significant majority of Republicans and Independents support the program, and its expiration would be a blow to constituencies of both parties, as data from the Technology Policy Institute reflects that enrollment is essentially equivalent for both Republican-represented and Democratic-represented Congressional districts.

Politics aside, an end to the ACP would set us back years in our effort to overcome the affordability gap, a barrier that accounts for two-thirds of our nation’s digital divide. By not having an effective solution in place to assist Americans struggling to afford an Internet subscription due to level of income, we will more or less be fighting this fight with one arm tied behind our back.  In Maine, 39 percent of households with income less than $20,000 have no connectivity. Closing the digital divide is an effort that we must be successful in, as analyses of the issue have indicated that allowing millions of Americans to continue to be without connectivity will have grave repercussions for the American economy at large. A 2021 study from Deloitte found that a ten percentage-point increase in broadband penetration in 2016 would have created more than 806,000 additional jobs in 2019.

The persistence of the digital divide will continue to mean untapped prosperity for the American economy, and it’s not hard to understand why. Seemingly every industry stands to benefit by having access to high-speed Internet and all of the essential resources that come with it. This means not only capabilities for remote working, but also access to information, so those working in sectors that are more hands-on and less computer-intensive can still utilize the Internet to yield better results. An example of this could be a farmer in Clinton that relies on online resources for market prices, weather forecasts, farming techniques, and agricultural research, or a small business owner in Waterville that utilizes online platforms to advertise its product and grow its brand.

Overall, I am hopeful that federal policymakers understand that combatting affordability barriers is an integral part of getting Americans online, but I also hope that this understanding will translate into tangible action that specifically acknowledges the need to prolong the Affordable Connectivity Program. With the program set to expire next year, we need to find a funding solution in the near future that keeps this critical program intact.

CRITTER CHATTER: Some things never change

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The late Carleen Cote and one of her rescues.

by Jayne Winters

I was planning to write about the two fawns at the Duckpond Wildlife Rehab Center, but after reading through some old columns written by Don’s late wife, Carleen, I was again moved by the years of dedicated, tireless – and often under-appreciated – commitment the Cotes have given to literally thousands of wild critters since they began to rehab (initially it was part-time) in 1964. Here we are, almost 60 years later, and Don continues to rescue and provide TLC to abandoned, injured and sick animals. It’s truly mind-boggling to me, even as one who has loved animals since I was a young child.

In 2010, Carleen wrote the following: “When I wrote that first article [for The Town Line in 1996], we typically received fewer than 100 birds and animals a year. How times have changed! Since that first Critter Chatter column, Donald has retired. We now receive between 350 to 400 mammals and birds.

“Our day starts about 6:30 a.m., when the alarm goes off. Donald prepares the bottles of milk to be fed to the fawns. I prepare the formula for the raccoons and other babies. Soon our much-valued volunteers arrive to help with feeding the babies that have begun stirring and crying for their milk. All want to be first! The floor of the living room is crowded with tubs where the babies live until they are big enough to go outside. We go from tub to tub, feeding the ones that scream the loudest.

“Even though they are hungry, some are reluctant and will eat only if I feed them. If they won’t eat, we have to guess about what could be the problem. Is the milk warm enough or do they not like the nipple? We re-warm the milk in the microwave. We pass the bottles back and forth until we get the nipple the baby will accept. It is frustrating trying to get the stubborn ones to eat.

“Other volunteers, meanwhile, are outside feeding the older babies – milk and bread for some, puppy food for others. Clover and dandelions and other greens are picked for the woodchucks. After Donald feeds the fawns, he prepares food for baby foxes, coyotes and bobcats. Then, pens need to be cleaned, food and water dishes washed and disinfected, and fresh water provided before we can stop for lunch.

“At 1 p.m., it starts all over again! Donald feeds the fawns, the rest of us repeat the same scenario – feeding, changing soiled bedding, washing out the tubs, making formula, coaxing the reluctant ones to take the bottle, dispensing medications to those that need it.

“In addition, there is the special caring for the smaller, weaker babies in the incubators, feeding, cleaning the incubators, changing their towel bedding. There will be two to three more feedings before all settle down to sleep for the night. The soiled towels have piled up – seven to eight loads of laundry every day to be washing [sic], dried, and folded, ready for the next day.

“After the outside critters get their afternoon feedings and pens cleaned, it is finally time for volunteers to end their day with us. I will give another one or two feedings to the house babies and Donald still has two more feedings for the fawns. We usually get our evening meal about 11 p.m. Last chores are accomplished at 1 a.m. and we get to bed between 2 and 3 a.m. As soon as our heads hit the pillows, we are asleep…oh, darn, that can’t be the alarm going off so soon!”

Although many critters are being transferred to other rehabbers, the daily chores and feeding schedules remain the same. Don has slowed down with age, but his commitment and that of volunteers Jane and Debbie are inspiring. Thank you to you all! Please check the following websites to see if there is a rehabber near you: https://www.mainevetmed.org/wildlife-rehabilitation or https://www.maine.gov/ifw/fish-wildlife/wildlife/living-with-wildlife/orphaned-injured-wildlife/index.html.

Donald Cote operates Duck Pond Wildlife Care Center on Rte. 3, in Vassalboro. It is a nonprofit state permitted rehab facility which is supported by his own resources and outside donations. Mailing address: 1787 North Belfast Ave., Vassalboro ME 04989 TEL: (207) 445-4326. Please note the previous e-mail address is no longer monitored.

SCORES & OUTDOORS: Two other types of illnesses connected with ticks

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Deer tick before and after engorging.

Roland D. Halleeby Roland D. Hallee

This week, I will share with you a press release I received from Nancy Bostrom, of American Family Care. In the early days of summer 2023, local healthcare providers are sounding an alarm about a triple tick threat that includes a rare illness that just killed a man!

While Lyme disease – considered one of the most common tick-borne diseases is usually the biggest concern this time of year – local healthcare providers at American Family Care (AFC) are spreading the word about two other types of illnesses associated with the blood-sucking insects.

They’ve even launched an educational campaign called Tick Talk so local families know what to look out for while outdoors this summer and how to protect themselves.

Powassan Virus

Powassan virus is a non-treatable illness transmitted by the same black legged (or deer ticks) that carry Lyme Disease. Just a few weeks ago, health officials in Maine confirmed a man was pronounced dead from the disease.

So far this year, two cases of Powassan Virus have been reported. The CDC has tracked nearly 300 cases, including 264 hospitalizations since 2014, but experts fear many cases are unreported.

Symptoms can include fever, headache, vomiting, weakness, confusion, seizures or even memory loss. Ten percent of those who contract Powassan will die.  Approximately one half will have long term health problems like recurring headaches, loss of muscle strength, and memory problems.

Big difference from Lyme – It takes Lyme Disease many hours (at least 24) to be transmitted from tick to person. It is suspected that Powassan Virus is transmitted from the tick to person in just 15 minutes.

Babesiosis

Babesiosis is another tickborne illness on the rise. Unlike the Powassan virus, babesiosis is treatable if caught early. This illness can also be transmitted by a tick that is also carrying Lyme.

Federal health officials say cases of tickborne illness have skyrocketed over an 8-year period.

Symptoms can include fever, chills, lethargy, joint pain, body aches, loss of appetite, nausea or fatigue – things that can appear to overlap with Lyme disease, but there is no distinctive bullseye rash.

If left untreated, it can lead to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), severe anemia, congestive heart failure, renal failure, disseminated intra­vascular coagulation (DIC), shock and coma.

Lyme Disease

Lyme disease is the most known of the tickborne illnesses. It is transmitted through the bite of an infected deer tick. Cases of Lyme disease have more than tripled since 1993 according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Lyme disease causes a rash that looks like a bullseye. It also causes flu-like symptoms, such as fever, chills, headache, fatigue, and muscle aches.

Lyme disease may evolve through phases, which can overlap and cause ever worsening symptoms that may involve the skin, joints, heart, or nervous system.

Antibiotics are effective treatments for Lyme disease when detected early.

Protect Yourself

Remember, ticks can typically be found in grassy, brushy, or wooded areas, or on animals. They typically wait on the tips of branches, leaves, or tall grasses for prey to walk by.

A tick’s saliva has anesthetic properties, so you may not even realize you’ve been bitten.

When spending time outdoors, be aware of your surroundings and the possibility of ticks in the area. Wear insect repellent with DEET. If you must be in a grassy or wooded area, wear long sleeves and long pants. Tucking your pants into your socks for extra protection. Shower immediately after being outside. Ask someone check your body for ticks. If you find a tick on your body, time is of the essence!   Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp it by the head as close to the skin as possible. Gently pull the tick upward, making sure not to twist or squeeze it. Wash and disinfect the area with rubbing alcohol or soap and water.

Save the tick!

Take a photo of the tick and submit to a tick identification website which can inform you of the potential pathogens it could be carrying and whether you might want to have the tick tested as a further assessment of disease risk.

Protection is the key, however, if you do come in contact with a tick, don’t wait. If you’re not sure, seek professional medical help.

Roland trivia question of the week:

Name the only two players to win a World Series with both the Boston Red Sox and New York Yankees.

Answer
Babe Ruth and Johnny Damon.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, June 29, 2023

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GWYNETH M. BOWN

OAKLAND – Gwyneth “Gwyn” May Bown, 66, of Oakland, passed away unexpectedly at MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Augusta. on Monday, June 5, 2023, following a chronic illness. She was born in Waterville on May 1, 1957, the youngest of three siblings.

Her parents, William and Nancy (Sweet) Bown, both served in World War II in the U.S. and British Army. Gwyn graduated from Waterville High School in 1976 and earned her degree in Early Childhood Education in 1980 from the University of Maine at Orono. She was an exceptional athlete in many sports including field hockey, track and field, and ice hockey. Her proudest accomplishment was placing seventh in the nation with her 169-yard javelin throw, missing the Olympic Trials by six inches. She also scored the first goal in history for the UMaine Women’s Ice Hockey Club against Colby College.

After college, Gwyn worked at the Waterville Boys/Girls Club for 10 years and coached field hockey and track at the high school. In 1989, she joined the Department of Defense as Coordinator of the Landstul School Age Program, in Germany, and later as Childcare Coordinator of the Baumholder School Age Program, in Germany, for over 13 years.

During her tenure, Gwyn touched several lives, entertaining many of the local German community with her witty humor, her culinary skills, and her wonderful gift of living life to the fullest.

Priority placement returned her to the states in February 2003 as the 412th Force Support Squadron Youth Program Director at Edwards Air Force Base, in California. She supervised multiple programs and facilities while at Edwards and served for a year as acting Flight Chief for the Squadron’s Child and Youth Flight.

Following her 30-year retirement and decorated service to the Department of Defense, she fulfilled her dream of returning to her roots in Maine to live on Messalonskee Lake, in Oakland, by her beloved, life-long friends and family. Gwyn spent her brief retirement years traveling to her favorite Maine places, fishing on her boat, cooking for the neighborhood, snowmobiling on the lake, swimming at the Alfond Youth Center, and watching the loons migrate each season.

Gwyn was predeceased by her parents William and Nancy Bown, of Waterville; her brother, Warren Bown, of North Anson, and her brother-in-law, Paul Hopkins, of Syracuse, New York.

She is survived by her sister, Chris Hopkins, of Syracuse, New York; nephews Eric Hopkins, of Londonderry, New Hampshire (wife Meredith Hopkins, son Ericson); Ryan Hopkins, of Syracuse New York; sister-in-law, Beth Bown, of Skowhegan; nephews Matthew Bown, of North Anson, (wife Amy Bown, daughter Ashley Bown, of Mssachusetts); Nathaniel Bown, of Murfreesboro, Tennessee (wife Kate Bown, sons Silas, Adien, and Oakley); niece, Katy Perkins, of Cornville (husband Don Perkins, daughter Annah Perkins);

There will be no visiting hours or funeral services. The family will hold a private Celebration of Life in late July. Share thoughts, pictures, and memories at Dan & Scott’s Cremation and Funeral Service Dignity website.

In lieu of flowers, monetary donations can be made directly to South End Teen Center, 5 Libby Court, Waterville, Maine in memory of Gwyn.

ROBERT C. EMERY

WATERVILLE – Robert C. Emery, Jr. “Beaver”, 79, passed away, Wednesday, June 7, 2023. He was born February 16, 1944, in Waterville, at Sister’s Hospital, in Waterville, to Robert and Shirley Emery.

He attended Waterville schools and worked all his life as a carpenter for many people. Everybody loved him. He was very funny and always joked around. Everybody knew him as “Beaver.”

He was predeceased by his father, Bob, mother, Shirley; sister, Sandra, brothers David and wife Joyce, Ronnie and wife Cheryl.

He leaves behind brother, Lawrence and wife Janice; sisters Becky and Susan; brother, Jeffery; son, Richard; grandchildren Dillon, Tristan, Devin, Carter Emery, Chelsea Jones, and Jacob Reed.

Services, Ames Cemetery, in Benton, Saturday, July 8, at 11:30 a.m., and Celebration of Life after, at the Grover-Hinckley American Legion Post #14, in Fairfield.

DAVID R. CROWELL

WATERVILLE – David R. Crowell, 64, passed away Thursday, June 8, 2023. Born in Waterville on March 25, 1959, the son of the late Arthur and Velma (Cloukia) Crowell.

He was educated in the Winslow/Waterville Public Schools, graduating from Waterville High School class of 1978.

David was predeceased by his parents; and by siblings Carolyn Boudreau, Marjorie, Richard and Jody Lynn Crowell.

Surviving are his brothers, Paul and Daniel Crowell; sisters Gail Swain, Cynthia Veilleux, and Paula Homer; brothers-in law Wayne Boudreau, Daryl Swain, and Stephen Homer; many nieces and nephews; and Christopher Caron and Anthony Carpenter, who he loved as his son and grandson.

Celebration of his life will take place on Sunday, July 9, at 3 p.m., 305 Burrill Hill Rd., Norridgewock. Open invitation for all who would like to attend. Please bring lawn chairs, share your memories and laughs. If you would like to bring a dish to share or dessert that would be greatly appreciated. BYOB, non-alcoholic beverages will be provided.

DOROTHY E. MARTIN

AUGUSTA – Dorothy Elada (Moxcey) Martin, 93, a lifelong resident of Waterville, passed away peacefully, on Monday, June 12, 2023. “Dot” was born on December 2, 1929, the daughter of Ralph S. Moxcey and Violet Fowler Moxcey.

She attended schools in Waterville, graduating from Waterville High School in 1948 where she loved being a Panthers cheerleader and a member of the Purple and White Club.

In 1949, she and her husband of 55 years, Leo, were married. They had two children, Gail, and Michael. The family grew to include five grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. Dot’s first job was with LaVerdiere’s Drug Store (where she met Leo!), moving on to the C. F. Hathaway Shirt Company, then to Keyes Fibre Company (now Huhtamaki), all in Waterville, where she was employed for 32 years until her retirement in 1990.

She enjoyed neighborhood get togethers, playing cards with friends, walking, and skating when young. She loved to dance, especially to country music tunes! Cooking was another favorite pastime for Dot, and she took pride in her strawberry jam, peanut butter fudge, and baked beans. She and Leo traveled to Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Florida, and cruised the Caribbean.

Dot was predeceased by her husband, Leo; her daughter, Gail Cole; and three sisters, Gloria Luce, Jean Norton, and Darlene Lanquist.

She is survived by a son and daughter-in-law; grandchildren and their spouses; and great-grandchildren; two brothers, their spouses; and several nieces and nephews.

Visiting hours will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., on Saturday, August 5, at Gallant Funeral Home, 10 Elm St., Waterville. Luncheon to follow.

An online guestbook may be signed, condolences and memories shared at http://www.gallantfh.com There will be a private burial at a later date .

In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory can be made to MaineGeneral Health-Comfort Care at Glenridge, Office of Philanthropy, P.O. Box 828, Waterville, ME 04903-0828, or online at give.mainegeneral.org.

RAYMOND W. POULIN

WATERVILLE – Retired Fire Chief Raymond W. Poulin, 73, of Waterville, passed away Wednesday June 14, 2023, at Maine General Medical Center, in Augusta. He was the son of the late Bernard and Anna (Roy) Poulin, of Waterville.

Raymond attended Waterville High School and also received his associates degree in Fire Science. Raymond has been a member of Waterville Elks Lodge #905 for 47 years. He served in the Army National Guard for nine years. He worked at W.T. Grant Store, in Waterville, for 10 years.

He joined Waterville Fire Department as a volunteer in 1973 and in 1976 became a full-time career firefighter. He became assistant fire chief in 1994 and was promoted to fire chief in 1999. One of the biggest accomplishments for Raymond while working at the fire department was his work in getting a new central fire station in 2002. Chief Poulin retired in August 2003 after a 30-year career with Waterville Fire Department.

After taking some time off he became a security officer at T-Mobile and worked there for 10 years. He greatly enjoyed his time there meeting many new friends. In 2003 he was able to assist some of the Empire Falls crew while they were filming locally and was excited to meet Helen Hunt and Paul Newman.

Raymond enjoyed spending time with his family, taking trips with his wife, visiting casinos, seeing concerts and shows, watching his grandchildren play sports or dancing in a recital. He also enjoyed having coffee with friends and stopping at lawn sales or Goodwill, picking up collectibles to sell at the Antique Mall.

Raymond was an amazing husband, father, son, brother, and friend who dedicated his life to his family and serving his community. He was often heard telling people they were his favorite as though no one knew he said that to everyone.

Predeceased by brother, Maurice Poulin and sister-in-law, Charlene Poulin.

Raymond is survived by his wife of 53 years, Dianne Poulin; daughters Barbie Brockway and husband Ryan Brockway, Brenda Barnes and husband Michael Barnes; grandchildren, Brittni Martell, Cameron Brockway, Tyler Brockway, Lexi Barnes; sister, Noella Plourde and husband Larry; brothers Patrick Poulin and wife Rose, Francis Poulin; many brothers- and sisters-in-law; nieces, nephews.

A public funeral service was held on Saturday, June 24, Centerpoint Community Church. A private family burial was held on Monday, June 26.

Arrangements are under the direction and care of Gallant Funeral Home, 10 Elm St., Waterville, Maine. An online guestbook may be signed, condolences and memories shared at http://www.gallantfh.com.

JULIE A. HUTCHINSON

WATERVILLE – Julie Alice Hutchison, 68, passed away on Wednesday, June 14, 2023, in the care of her family and Northern Light Hospice in her home at Brown House Commons, where she had lived with her mother since her diagnosis of scleroderma a little more than two years ago. Julie was born, in Waterville, December 26, 1954, the fifth of seven children to Norman and Marie Hutchison.

From a young age, she had a sharp mind, and a quiet, determined spirit. She graduated from Waterville High School, class of 1973, and went on to earn multiple degrees in science and nursing. She spent many years practicing in the ER and OR as a Nurse Practitioner and Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist in Maine, Connecticut, and Florida.

Outside of school and work, Julie demonstrated that same passion, fiery independence, and joy for living. She loved the outdoors. She fished and hunted all over Maine, took road trips on her Honda 500CC, and went on cruises to the Caribbean, Hawaii, and Alaska. She played multiple sports and brought so much grit and spunk to the game, it didn’t seem to matter that she was often the smallest one on the team. She was a spectacular softball catcher and a relentless hockey goalie. She was a racquetball tournament champion and even won a sanctioned arm wrestling tournament! She was also the loudest voice in the crowd, cheering on the Red Sox, Patriots, and Bruins, with her beloved dogs, Mackie, Brook, and Piper, by her side.

She was predeceased by her father, Norman Hutchison; and a nephew and godchild, Caleb Hutchison.

Julie is survived by her mother, Marie-Berthe Hutchison, nee Breton; her siblings Norman Hutchison (Candy), Paul Hutchison (Mary Ellen), June L’Heureux (Daniel), James Hutchison (Cindy), Bruce Hutchison (Mary) and Rob Hutchison (Lisa); and many nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held on June 29, at St. John the Baptist Church, in Winslow. A burial immediately followed. A Celebration of Life was held after the burial at The Elks Lodge, on Industrial Road, in Waterville.

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, donations can be made in Julie’s name to the Humane Society Waterville Area, 100 Webb Rd., Waterville, ME 04901.

PATSY M. WHITE

VASSALBORO – Patsy Mae (Tardiff) White, 69, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, June 15, 2023. She was born March 20, 1954, in Waterville, the daughter of Bernard and Rena (Sylvain) Tardiff.

She attended Winslow schools, graduating from Winslow High School in 1974. She married Douglas F. White on April 23, 1983, in Vassalboro.

She was employed in the accounting field for many years ending her career at O’Brien’s Oil, in China, due to declining health. Pat enjoyed boating, snowmobiling, hosting Halloween parties and spending time with family and friends. She will be remembered for her beautiful smile, quick wit and her caring, compassionate spirit.

She was predeceased by her father, Bernard Tardiff, her mother, Rena Tardiff, father in-law, Floyd “Ikey” White; brother in-law, Nelson Adams, sister-in-law, Cathy (White) Fisher.

She is survived by her husband of 40 years, Douglas F. White, of Vassalboro; brother, Paul Tardiff (Maggie), of Waterville, sisters Barbara Otis (John) of Lebanon, Marlene Cobb, of Vassalboro, Theresa Tardiff (Mark McCluskey) ,of Fairfield; mother in-law, Theresa White, of Vassalboro; sister-in-law, Nancy Adams, of Winslow; brothers-in-law Harland White (Ann), of Vassalboro, Glen Fisher, of Vassalboro; and many nephews, nieces; and cousins.

A Celebration of Life will be held at St. Bridget’s Event Center, 864 Main St., Vassalboro, on Friday, June 30, from 1 to 3 p.m.

Arrangements under the direction and care of Dan and Scott’s Cremation and Funeral Services, 445 Waterville Rd., Skowhegan, ME 04976.

JANE MARLEY

SIDNEY – Jane Marley, 76, of Sidney, passed away peacefully, at home, on Saturday, June 17, 2023. She was born on July 19, 1946, in New Haven, Connecticut, to Wendell Wing and Patricia Simons.

Jane grew up in Oakland with her family which also included her siblings Kathleen (Taffy), Penny, Mickey, and Harvey. She lost her mother, Patricia, and youngest brother, Harvey, at a young age, and through that loss, grew up to be a strong, independent, caring woman.

She married her first love, Albert Stanley Bangs, Jr., and they started their own family with the births of Terri and Tracey. While raising her family with endless love, Jane worked at various companies over the years in the customer service field and made many friends along the way. Everyone she encountered fell in love with her, as she exuded kindness, compassion, and tenderness, and always cared for others before herself.

Jane’s family, friends, and neighbors were very important to her throughout her life, and all of the neighborhood children called her “Mom”. While the kids were growing up, her big green station wagon was always lovingly referred to as “Mom’s Taxi”, as she always volunteered to bring the children and all of their friends wherever they wanted to go and didn’t mind when they wanted to listen to music and sing along the way.

After the girls were grown, and Stanley and Jane grew apart, Jane was lucky enough to meet and fall in love with Roger Carter. Jane and Roger spent many wonderful years together and created a blended family of children and grandchildren to love with all their hearts. Roger loved Jane so deeply that he made the promise to care for her at home throughout her prolonged illness. He created a safe and loving environment for her and built her a gazebo in their back yard so she could continue to admire her flower gardens.

Jane loved to dance, listen to music (Elvis was her guy), enjoy the outdoors, and beautify her gardens. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, friend, and neighbor, and will be sadly missed by all who loved her so much.

Jane was predeceased by her parents, Wendell and Patricia; her sister, Kathleen (Taffy) and brother-in-law, Lou, her brothers Harvey and Mickey; her first husband, Stanley; her father-in-law and mother-in-law, Albert and Mary; her sister-in-law, Nancy; her niece, Darlene, her nephew, Keith, and Brittany who was very special to her.

Survivors include her partner of many years, Roger Carter; her daughter, Terri, daughter, Tracey and her husband Jacob, her stepsons Matthew and Jeffrey, and his wife Ashley; her grandchildren Jeramie, Devin, Tesla and Justin, Kaela, Kelsey, Ivan, Alaina and Amanda; her seven great-grandchildren; her sister, Penny and brother-in-law Barry, her sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Mary and Dan; nieces and nephews Charlie, Dan, Cristal, Ronnie, Donna, Duncan, Amy, Mickey, Charlie, Joey; and many other family members. She also held a special place in her heart for Mike, Kristy, Logan, and Matt.

Arrangements are under the care of Dan and Scott’s Cremation and Funeral Services. There will be a graveside service at Maplewood Cemetery, in Fairfield, on Saturday, July 8, at 10 a.m., for family only. A celebration of life will be held afterwards, from 1 to 4 p.m., at the MacCrillis-Rousseau VFW Post #8835, in Winslow, with light refreshments for all family and friends. Please bring yourself and your memories to share.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Winslow VFW in memory of Jane Marley, as she was a lifetime active auxiliary member.

STEPHEN J. PLUMMER

WEEKS MILLS – Stephen John Plummer, 80, of Weeks Mills, died Sunday, June 18, 2023, at Inland Hospital, in Waterville, following a long illness. He was born in Portland on March 21, 1943, the son of Stephen Charles and Muriel (Clark) Plummer.

He attended Erskine Academy, in South China, and grew up in Weeks Mills. He worked for a short time for Railway Express, a subsidiary of Central Maine Railroad, as a transportation driver. He was employed for several years by Pine State Beverage, in Augusta, as their sole over the road long haul driver. He later launched his own trucking firm, P&P Transport.

Throughout his lifetime, Stephen was dedicated to assisting his father on the family farm in Weeks Mills. He had taken over the family farm after his father’s passing and continued to run it for many years. He was personally driven by hard work.

In his younger years, he enjoyed snowmobiling, boating, motorcycling, camping, hunting, and fishing. Never idle for long and was always drawn to Northern Maine.

He is survived by four children, son, Stephen R. Plummer and wife Lisa, of Augusta; daughter, Karen J. Mason and husband Mark, of South China; sons, Jeffrey S. Plummer and wife Angela, of Palermo, and Joshua E. Plummer and wife Jessica, of Portsmouth, Virginia; 10 grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren; as well as many nieces and nephews; two sisters, Martha Gurney, of Vermont, and Linda Howe, of China; as well as a devoted companion of many years, Barbara Mayberry, of Weeks Mills.

A graveside service was held at Chadwick Hill Cemetery, in South China, on Tuesday, June 27.

Arrangements have been entrusted to 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, do something nice for a loved one or someone in need.

GARY D. CHATTO SR.

AUGUSTA – Gary Douglas Chatto Sr., 71, a lifetime resident of Augusta, passed away on Monday, June 19, 2023, following a short battle with congestive heart failure. He was born in Gardiner, the son of Robert F. Chatto Sr. and Frances Chatto, on September 1,1951.

He graduated from Cony High School, in Augusta, in 1969. He worked a variety of jobs including meat butchering for Kirshners and Swift., and tree climbing for Rutland Tree Service. He was also a foreman for Kennebec Valley Tree Service, taking down some of the largest elm trees in Augusta. Owning his own tree service for a bit as well. He also worked for Bath Iron Works for several years as stage builder.

He had a love for the outdoors since boyhood. Gary and his brother Bobby had many whitetail deer and dog sled racing adventures as young men. He also enjoyed many seasons of deer hunting from the shack with his son Gary Jr. He was an avid trapper, hunter, and fisherman. He was a Registered Maine Master Guide for 43 years as well as an Alaskan Fishing Guide,where he ventured later in his life to his beloved Kodiak Island where he guided many people to their first 30-pound King Salmon. He loved to help others foster their love of the outdoors with his advice and experience.

Some of his most treasured adventures and memories took place with his lifelong friends Bob Smith and Jeff Pyska guiding fishing expeditions in the Alaskan backcountry. The story telling of his adventures will be missed by all who knew him. He loved living on the pond for all his life. You could find him sitting around the campfire at the pond on most weekends and reminiscing about his adventures of hunting and fishing in the wild woods of Maine and Alaska. If it had to do with the outdoors he was there with advice and twinkle in his eyes. He had a way of making it seem like you were right there with him. You might say he was a master storyteller as well.

He was predeceased by the love of his life of 30 years, Pammy. He was also predeceased by his father, Robert F. Chatto Sr., his mother Frances Chatto, and brother Robert Chatto Jr.

He is survived by his son Gary Chatto Jr.; his daughter Heidi Muse and husband Aaron Muse; granddaughter Mallory Muse; and grandson, Bradley Muse; his sister Nancy Biggs, her husband Mark Biggs; his nephews Travis Biggs, Kurtis Biggs, his wife Ashley and grand niece Jade Biggs.

A celebration of life service will be held on Saturday, July 8, at 10 a.m. , at Cornerstone Christian Fellowship, 2539 Riverside Drive, Vassalboro, ME. At Gary’s request there will be no viewing services.

A private family graveside ceremony will be held at a later date.

THOMAS KING

FAIRFIELD – Tom was born September 8, 1940, to Alida and Rene King, in Fairfield. At 19, he married the love of his life, Deanna.

He will be greatly missed by his wife and his children, David and Jennifer King, Corrina and Marc Marcoux, Brian and Valerie King, and Greg Garber.

Tom was predeceased by his daughter, Rhonda Garber.

Services will be held on July 29, at 11 a.m., at the First Baptist Church, in Pittsfield. A full obituary is available online at LawryBrothers.com.

FREDERICK V. GLIDDEN SERVICE

SOUTH CHINA – Join us Saturday, July 1, at 12 p.m., to celebrate the life of Frederick V. Glidden at the family camp (77 54th Fire Rd.) in South China.

LUCAS M. THOMAS

OAKLAND – Lucas Michael Thomas, of Oakland, and Las Vegas, Nevada, passed away on Wednesday, May 17, 2023.

Kindness is the act of being friendly, generous and considerate, and is a virtue that’s often overlooked. Whether by choice or by some condition of birth, Lucas Thomas was a kind man. Isaac Asimov once said that “in life, unlike chess, the game continues after checkmate.” And so, it is with Luke. Lucas was both wise beyond his years, and compassionate beyond measure, and he was comfortable and natural in that role.

Each person is as unique as a snowflake, and Lucas is no exception. He lived a wonderful life unlike any other. To be part of that journey from the beginning was as interesting as any movie you would see or any book you might read.

Lucas is the son of neighborhood sweethearts and the great grandson of Lebanese immigrants. He was surrounded by the influences of two cultures, both of whom valued education, religion and family. Some recognized early those remarkable leadership traits Lucas was exhibiting…not only did he love to read, but he could be found hiding under the kitchen table at a family gathering reading two books at once. He had an ability to observe and absorb greatness, and the knack for summoning forth that quality at opportune and appropriate times. True to his character, he did not fill his life with unnecessary things, nor did he waste his words. His belongings were well chosen, and always included a football, and his dog.

Much like his father, his mother and great-grandfather before him, he was adventurous, a risk-taker. Following a family tradition, this young man “went west” to pursue his goals and dreams. Lucas was a journalist; this is what he made of himself. He was a passionate story teller, and quite aware of the pressures placed on those who dug deep to reveal the truth.

His love of sports and journalism began at an early age. His memory and mastery of sports statistics turned peoples’ heads. Calling him a Dolphins and Yankees fan would be an understatement. The only time Lucas was heard to complain was when someone had an adverse opinion about his Dolphins or his Yankees, but of course, that was always in good fun.

Lucas was many things to many people – a leader, an athlete, a poet, a silent hero. He was an accomplished writer, and a fan of Bob Dylan and John Prine.

It’s been said that intelligence may be more important than physical ability in playing quarterback. Lucas was selected to play quarterback at the Maine Shrine Lobster Bowl. This was not luck or fate, he earned his spot, though some would call him lucky. Remember that he was atop of World Trade Center a mere three days before the bombing of the Twin Towers. The fate of place and time can be a factor in our outcomes, but Lucas always blazed his own path.

He always found it easy to say “I love you.” Those three words are the memory we share of Lucas. It manifests itself when we see that smile, hear that laughter and remember that presence.

Lucas is a silent hero, with this deliberate act of kindness; Lucas Thomas chose to be an organ donor. His legacy will include a simple Christian act of kindness, sharing everything he has with strangers in need. His walk will continue as an unselfish gift to all who know him, and to those who will come to know and appreciate him.

Lucas was predeceased by his grandparents, John and Marietta Thomas, Fernand and Antoinette Mathieu, and an uncle, Paul Thomas.

Lucas Thomas is survived by his parents, John and Jeanne; his brother Jack, of Las Vegas, Nevada; aunts and uncles – Pam and Dan Casavant; Paul, Moe, Norman and Aunt Pete Mathieu, Pat and Monique Kelley, Diane Dostie; and cousins – Ethan and Rachel Casavant, Thomas and Michelle Casavant, Jacob and Misti Bearce and family, Ben and Katie Mathieu and family, Megan Kelley Ferguson and family; his very special friend Leanne Harding.

A memorial Mass was held at St. Joseph Maronite Church, in Waterville, Monday May 29.

Interment was on Tuesday, May 30, at the St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, Grove Street, Waterville.

Albion couple visits coastal Maine botanical gardens

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Ron Pohlman, little guy on the left, stands next to one of the giant trolls. (contributed photo)

by Donnajean Pohlman

On a cool but sunny spring day in mid-May, my husband Ron and I took advantage of the “Admission to the Gardens Library Program”.

We have visited the Gardens a number of times over the years enjoying the unique eco-systems of the Maine coast area. The Gardens are truly a “living museum”, a wonderful way to learn about and enjoy the diverse flora of the area. We experienced all it had to offer – the gardens coming into bloom, the quiet walks on the woods trails, and discovering the “Giant Ad­ven­ture” – five humongous wood­en Trolls “hidden” throughout the woods. Their story is not be missed.

So back to the “Admission to the Gardens Library Pro­gram”. The program is one in which local libraries can participate allowing their town residents to reserve free admission passes during the May – October season. What a wonderful way to experience a part of Maine and enjoy a summer day out in nature. The Albion library made this opportunity available to Albion residents.

China select board again postpones decision on elected officials

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by Mary Grow

China select board members again postponed a decision on whether some town officials should be elected from geographic districts, after a discussion with two planning board members who attended the June 20 select board meeting.

The select board’s agenda included numerous other topics. Two were related to the transfer station: a suggested new system for monitoring entering vehicles and a proposed contract with Albion.

Board members also scheduled a July 31 public discussion of the South China boat landing; approved contracts for cemetery fence work and with Delta Ambulance; gifted the old generator the town office no longer uses; and agreed on off-schedule meetings for the end of the fiscal year and the Independence Day holiday.

The district election system dates from 1986, Town Manager Rebecca Hapgood believes. Ordinances say four members each of the planning board and budget committee are elected from four districts in town, mapped as northwest, northeast, southeast and southwest.

The six-member planning board has one member and one alternate elected from the town at large. The seven-member budget committee has one member plus the chair and the secretary who can live anywhere in town. All China voters vote for all members of both boards.

Hapgood questioned the usefulness of the districts at the June 5 select board meeting (see the June 15 issue of The Town Line, p. 3), sparking the first discussion.

When select board members and planning board co-chairmen Toni Wall and James Wilkens resumed the discussion June 20, an early point Hapgood made was that the planning board has had trouble getting members from some districts. Select board member Brent Chesley said after he lost his first bid for election to the select board, he tried to volunteer for the planning board and was turned down because he did not live in the district with the unfilled seat.

But, Wilkens said, assuming – as speakers did – that the purpose of districts is to spread board membership throughout the town, abolishing districts won’t solve the problem: the area that doesn’t have volunteers still won’t have them.

Three residents receive Spirit of America awards

Three China residents were honored with Spirit of America awards at the June 20 China select board meeting.

Ronald Breton, former select board member and chairman, former member and chairman of the planning board and member of other committees, was recognized for his many years of volunteering. Current select board member Janet Preston called Breton “very sincere and caring about the Town of China.”

Frederick “Rick” Fischer was commended by board member Blane Casey for his conscientious care of Memorial Park, in South China. Casey estimated Fischer had volunteered his time and labor mowing and trimming the grounds and shrubs around the monument for 30 years.

Trishea Story was recognized by Town Manager Rebecca Hapgood for her many years as an election worker for the town, as well as her membership on town committees.

The half-hour discussion canvassed other possibilities, including changing district boundaries and allowing temporary appointments from out of district. Wall volunteered to draft possible ordinance revisions as a basis for continued discussion.

The first transfer station issue was the proposed revised identification system, involving the current RFID (radio frequency identification) tags plus annual stickers on the tags, with vehicle license plate numbers on them (see again the June 15 issue of The Town Line, p. 3).

Hapgood said she is still trying to resolve one point that generated much discussion: the plan as proposed calls for charging China residents $10 for a RFID tag (she said the town pays about $7 to buy each tag, and invests staff time), but under the contract that lets Palermo use China’s transfer station, Palermo residents cannot be charged new fees.

The Town of Palermo makes an annual payment to China, and Palermo residents pay for colored bags for their mixed waste.

Transfer station committee members (there are two Palermo representatives on the eight-person committee) will continue discussion, Hapgood said, aiming for a system accepted as equitable.

A proposed contract to let Albion residents bring to China waste that is excluded from their curbside collection – metal, demolition debris, televisions, refrigerators and the like – was not controversial. The contract Michael Gardner, chairman of Albion’s select board, and Hapgood negotiated sets fees for each category that Hapgood said will cover China’s handling and disposal costs and provide a small profit.

Albion residents will need a pass, so a China transfer station staff member can collect the fees. Hapgood does not expect enough Albion waste to increase volume noticeably.

The contract is intended as an experiment, Hapgood said. It extends only to the end of 2023, and can be terminated on two weeks’ notice.

Select board members approved it unanimously.

Select board member Janet Preston reported on the survey of ways to use a community resilience grant, if the town were to get one. Of 274 respondents, 190 ranked addressing erosion and pollution at the South China boat landing a worthwhile project – the most popular of the seven projects offered, Preston said.

Select board members scheduled a public meeting to talk about options for the landing for 5:30 p.m. Monday, July 31, before that evening’s select board meeting.

Margot Crosman, who lives next to the landing, zoomed in to the board meeting to applaud plans for a public meeting. She said a group called the South China Neighbors Association is organizing around the topic, and pointed out that the landing is used by swimmers as well as by people launching boats.

Select board members made two more unanimous decisions:

  • They accepted a contract with Delta Ambulance service, at the fee previously discussed and included in the 2023-24 budget, for a year’s ambulance service. Hapgood said town attorney Amanda Meader had reviewed the contract.
  • They accepted the lower of two bids for cemetery fence repairs, from Triple P Fence Company, of Augusta. The bid is $11,205, with $400 to be added if Triple P personnel have to remove old fences because China’s public works crew have no time. Hapgood said the cemeteries to get new fences this year are Lakeview, China Village Extension and Stanley Hill.

The decision to donate the unneeded old generator to the building in the China School Forest was on a 4-1 vote, with Chesley dissenting. Board chairman Wayne Chadwick agreed that a generator is a less costly option than running electricity to the building, but was concerned about future costs. He nonetheless voted for the gift.

The next two China select board meetings are scheduled for 3 p.m. Friday, June 30, to approve any final FY 2023-24 payments; and 7:30 a.m. Wednesday, July 5, to avoid the holiday weekend and let select board members get to work the day after the holiday. The preliminary agenda for the July 5 meeting includes only payment of necessary bills.

The China town office will close at noon Friday, June 30. All town departments will be closed all day Tuesday, July 4. A regular select board meeting is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Monday, July 17.

Poll results

Results of the poll asking China voters to rank projects that might be funded with community resilience grants were as follows, according to Janet Preston, the town’s representative to the Kennebec Valley Council of Governments.

Respondents were asked to choose three top priorities. Of 274 people who answered the survey, 190 checked addressing erosion and pollution at the South China board landing. Next most favored was providing transportation for senior citizens, with 133 votes, followed by improving and expanding Thurston Park (109); digitizing town records (101); building sidewalks on Main Street in China Village (92); adding solar panels on municipal buildings (83); and providing electric vehicle charging stations (37). Sixteen other ideas were written in.

Preston told the rest of the select board at the June 20 board meeting that this information lets her complete an application to become one of KVCOG’s community resilience partners. After KVCOG accepts the application, the town will become eligible to apply for grants.