Front row, from left to right, Neriyah Doble, Lilly Wheeler, Andie Partridge, Dylan Bulmer and Whitney Cutter. Back, Haeley Ratner, Alyson Lake, Jordyn Moore, Ali Peters, Logan Laskey, Maci Peters and Coach Jimmy Peters. (photo By Missy Brown, Central Maine Photography)
First row, from left to right, Warren May, Milo Taylor, Ben Forkey, Oliver LeVan, Alex Pelotte, Brogan Walter, and Mason Pelletier. Back, Coach Craig McInnis, Landon Belisle, Jameson Dow, Maxwell Cornforth, Mitchell Ouellette, Cameron McInnis, Jayden Rancourt, and Coach Shawn Forkey. (photo by Missy Brown, Central Maine Photography)
Lake Life Today is a series of articles that are hoped will inspire you to see how, by taking just a few steps, you can make a difference and help preserve the quality of water in our lakes for future generations.
These articles have been collected and organized by LakeSmart Director Elaine Philbrook, a member of China Region Lake Alliance (aka “the Alliance”) serving China Lake, Webber Pond, Three Mile Pond, and Three-Cornered Pond. The Alliance would like to thank our partners at Maine Lakes and Lakes Environmental Association (LEA) for information to support this article.
Phosphorus is a naturally occurring nutrient that creates lake algae. A rapid increase or accumulation of too much phosphorus can cause a lake to be out of balance, creating massive algae blooms that turn lake water green from the algae’s pigments, smells terrible, degrades wildlife habitat, and can potentially harm human and pet health.
Phosphorus comes from lots of sources – pet waste, fertilizers, household cleaners, motor oil – none of which should ever find their way into a lake. But the biggest source of phosphorus is soil and sediment that is washed into a lake after a severe rain event. We know, due to climate change, that the rain events we are now experiencing are more intense. Severe storms cause phosphorous loading during the first hour of such events. This is called the “first flush.” Watch out for the “brownish” stormwater because it is laden with the nutrients, especially phosphorus.
Signs of erosion on your property show you that phosphorus in stormwater can take a direct path to your lake. Look around for stormwater channeling, or even more intense “gullying” left behind after a big storm, especially near buildings and parking areas where stormwater “sheet flows” off impervious surfaces and cascades its way to the waterbody.
Added together, even small sources of pollutants – a little stormwater runoff, a little pet waste on the lawn, a minor application of fertilizer – can all add up to create a much bigger problem for your lake. A little pollution from you, your neighbor and others around the lake, year after year, can put your lake at huge risk!
What can you do? For a more complete list of those things you can do to help promote and protect your lake’s water quality, see information on Lake Friendly Yard Maintenance at Vermont’s Department of Environmental Conservation (Watershed Management Division).
If you have any questions about what you can do to ensure the integrity of your valued lake or if you would like a free LakeSmart evaluation you can reach Elaine Philbrook by email at chinalakesmart@gmail.com and follow-up to read the next issue of The Town Line newspaper.
(photo by Eric W. Austin)
Legislative bills submitted by area senators & representatives as of Friday, May 26:
An Act Concerning Automotive Right to Repair. (Presented by Representative WHITE of Waterville)
RESOLUTION, Proposing an Amendment to the Constitution of Maine To Implement Ranked-choice Voting for Governor, State Senator and State Representative. (Presented by Senator RENY of Lincoln)
An Act to Provide for Licensing of and Tax Collection from Remote Retail Sellers of Pipe Tobacco and Premium Cigars. (Presented by Senator POULIOT of Kennebec)
An Act to Clarify and Improve the Laws Relating to the Background Check Center and the Maine Certified Nursing Assistant and Direct Care Worker Registry. (Presented by Representative SHAGOURY of Hallowell)
An Act to Promote Consistent Policies within Growth Management Programs in Order to Increase Food Security and Economic Resiliency in Local Communities. (Presented by Senator HICKMAN of Kennebec)
RESOLUTION, Proposing an Amendment to the Constitution of Maine to Establish a Parental Bill of Rights. (Presented by Representative POIRIER of Skowhegan)
An Act to Amend the Laws Governing Optometrists. (Presented by Representative POIRIER of Skowhegan)
An Act to Amend the Membership of the Somerset Woods Trustees. (Presented by Representative DUCHARME of Madison)
An Act to Improve Election Laws and Notarial Laws. (Presented by Senator HICKMAN of Kennebec)
(Copies of the Bills may be obtained from the Document Room, First Floor, State House, Augusta, Maine 04333-0002 – Ph: 207-287-1408. Bill text, bill status and roll call information are available on the Internet at http://legislature.maine.gov/LawMakerWeb/search.asp. The Weekly Legislative Report is also available on the Internet at the House home page at http://legislature.maine.gov/house/house/ under the “Documents” tab.)
Japanese beetle grub.
by Roland D. HalleeQuestion of the week, it seems, is this: Are we having an epidemic of grubs?
I’ve been asked that question many times in the past week. It seems folks in our area are seeing an increase in grub activity in the lawns.
What are grubs and what makes them appear in your lawn?
Grubs are the larvae of Japanese beetles. These larvae are the white grubs that devour lawns. Their bodies are c-shaped with brown heads, visible legs and are approximately 1/8 to one inch in length. During their larval stage, they live beneath the surface. Fully grown Japanese beetles are about 1/3 to 1/2 inch in length with a metallic-green body and head copper-colored wing covers. White hair covers the sides and tips of their abdomens.
Japanese Beetle
Adult Japanese beetles get nice and cozy underground over winter. When spring comes, their larvae instinctually move closer to the surface of the soil so they can nourish themselves on the roots of turfgrass. Once they grow into adult beetles, they emerge in mid-summer and feed on the leaves of grass. Unfortunately, their activity causes the grass to create an odor that attracts more hungry beetles. This is why it’s so important to contact a lawn care service if you suspect you have grubs. It won’t take long before you have a full infestation. Catching them before the adults lay eggs, or these eggs hatch breaks up the cycle. Female Japanese beetles can lay as many as 60 eggs throughout their breeding season in late July and August. The eggs will hatch, and grubs dig deeper into the soil to wait for spring, where the cycle starts over again.
Grubs are a staple food in the diets of birds, possums, raccoons, and skunks. If you notice more of these species than usual, it could be a sign of grub activity. These animals will dig up the turfgrass to get to the grubs just beneath the surface.
As grubs chew on the roots of the grass, the blades above the surface will start to brown, wilt, and die off, creating undesirable dead or brown patches in your lawn. Keep in mind that grub damage often has multiple symptoms, so don’t assume you’ve got grubs if the only thing you notice is brown grass. Brown spots in a lawn could be a type of lawn disease. If, however, you see dead grass in conjunction with the other signs, it could be time to consider grub treatment.
As grubs munch their way through a lawn, it can create uneven terrain. They may also create spongy grass that feels like you’re walking on a yoga mat. Grub activity can also cause your grass to become so loose; it can be rolled back like a sod roll.
Grub populations are also normally controlled by various kinds of birds living in or near home landscapes where there is a diversity of plants and wildlife to support them. Yards that are not visited regularly by songbirds have more grubs and plants suffer greater damage than yards where various kinds of birds systematically inspect the soil for grubs and attack adult beetles before they can lay more eggs in the soil.
Also, grubs are more prevalent in yards where there has been frequent routine or preventative use of broad-spectrum insecticides. These products kill bad and good insects indiscriminately, so nature’s first line of defense–the beneficial insects–is eliminated along with the pest insects. Because pest populations rebound faster than those of their natural enemies, the beetles can reestablish themselves unmolested and begin to lay more eggs unchecked.
Like all insects, it’s impossible to eradicate the population. Having some grubs on your lawn does not mean the end of the world. However, ten or more per square foot is when you’ll start to notice the damage. There are several ways of implementing do-it-yourself pest control.
Keep your lawn well-nourished with nitrogen fertilizer, as well as phosphorous and potassium. These are the three key ingredients to a healthy lawn.
Keep the mower height between two and three inches. This promotes a healthy root system, which is less prone to grub infestation.
Treat dead or dying areas with an overseeding application to restore damaged areas, and discourage more beetles from attacking the already stressed grass.
Sometimes, the infestation is more than one person can handle. Don’t wait until greedy little grubs fully take over your lawn. Occasionally contacting a professional grub control service is the most efficient means of eradicating grubs.
Grubs not only can raise havoc on a lawn, they also be a nuisance once they mature into a full-scale Japanese beetle population you have to put up with during the summer months.
Who was the last Boston Red Sox player to win the AL Rookie of the Year Award?
VASSALBORO – Mary Ann (Cronin) Dalbeck, 86, of Vassalboro, passed away on Tuesday, May 16, 2023, at home. Mary Ann was born on September 5, 1936, to Daniel J. and Bridget A. Cronin.
She grew up in Hallowell and graduated from Hallowell High School in 1955.
Mary Ann worked for J.S. McCarthy Co., State of ME DOT, and Jos. Kirschner Co. , all in Augusta. After moving to Florida she worked for Martin Marietta Corporation and Shades of Green (formerly The Disney Inn) on WDW Resorts before returning to Maine when she retired.
Mary Ann was known as NaeNae by many who loved her. She never forgot birthdays and loved holidays as opportunities for sharing cards and a call. She was like a kid at Christmas time, loving the adventure of finding the perfect gifts. She was especially proud of her Irish heritage.
Besides her parents, Mary Ann was predeceased by her son Michael F. Berryman, an infant daughter Cecelia M. Berryman, her brothers Daniel J, Stephen, Dennis and their spouses, and her sister Eileen Cronin.
She is survived by her daughters and son-in-law Rachael and Ozzie Cummings, of Vassalboro; Debbie and Darrin Cunningham, of Augusta; her grandchildren Wendy and Randy (Sarah) Cummings, Tyler and Allyson Cunningham, Christopher, Joseph, Michelle, Andrew and Cecilia Berryman; several great-grandchildren and many very nieces and nephews.
At Mary Ann’s request there will be no visitation or funeral services, but family and friends may gather at her burial in the Cronin family plot in Hallowell Cemetery when a date is set.
CHELSEA – Daniel R. Albert, 68, passed away Tuesday, May 16, 2023, at Maine Medical Center, in Portland as a result of a tragic accident while tending his fire pit on April 26, 2023, in Chelsea. Dan was born November 5, 1954, in Island Falls, to the late Kenneth and Velma Branscombe Albert.
He attended schools in Pittston and Gardiner, graduating from Gardiner Area High School in 1973. He also graduated with an associate degree from the University of Maine in Augusta.
Most of Dan’s life involved his love for music. He had a beautiful voice and could sing anything, with anyone. He played guitar, piano, mandolin, violin and banjo. He was involved with several bands, including a group from the early days of the UMA music program. For several years, he was lead singer for the rhythm and blues band, Red Light Revue. They had a five-year gig at the Big Easy, on Fore Street, in Portland, and it was there where Billy Joel sauntered in to listen after docking his boat. It was a thrill for Dan when, after meeting during a break, Joel joined him on stage. The group also played at many weddings, etc., throughout New England. In his later years, he took his volunteer music gift to patients at VA Maine HCS, as well as to inmates in Warren, with Kairos of Maine for prison ministry.
Dan was passionate about reducing the use of fossil fuels and using renewable resources. He was very interested in windmills for use on individual homes and built a small version to determine the effectiveness; he was satisfied with the results. He was an advocate for providing shelter and homes for those in need, and was dedicated to assisting anyone who was down and out and/or needing help with mental illness. Having experienced many years of untreated bipolar disorder, Dan became convinced maintaining appropriate medication was the way to go.
He enjoyed whitewater rafting in the Forks; fishing trips with his brothers, cousins and nephews; canoeing the Kennebec River on which he enjoyed owning his first home; family pig roasts, celebrations, and just being together; a good game of poker; strumming his many musical instruments; and his great love of reading. He will be remembered for his varied gifts of music, kindness, curiosity, energy and his faith in God.
Danny is predeceased by his parents and grandparents; and brothers, Ken and Rocky in 2022.
He is survived by his partner Cindy Thomas, of Chelsea; daughters Amanda Short and Lindsay (Craig) Richards; and granddaughters Mila, Elena, and Naomi Richards of New Hampshire; siblings Mary Pillsbury, of West Gardiner, Dawn (Jerry) Millette, of Florida, Linda (Denny) Foster, of Gardiner, David (Carol) Albert, of Pittston, Lori (Rick) Hafner, of Auburn, Tom (Dana) Albert of Standish; sister-in-law, Carolyn Albert, of Pittston; and step-siblings Teddy Morin, of North Whitefield, Hershel Albert, of Augusta, Camilla (John) McKinney, of Cape Elizabeth, Julia Peron, of Topsham, Uncle Jack and Aunt Jayne Branscomb, of Bangor; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
A Mass of Christian burial will be held at 11 a.m., on Thursday, June 1, 2023, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, in Gardiner, followed by burial at St. Joseph’s Cemetery, in Gardiner.
Arrangements are entrusted with Staples Funeral Home and Cremation Care, 53 Brunswick Avenue, Gardiner, Maine. Condolences, memories and photos may be shared with family on Staples Funeral Home website: http://www.familyfirstfuneralhomes.com.
For those who wish to contribute, memorial donations are encouraged to help support Kairos of Maine, P.O. Box 578, Auburn, ME 04212-0578 or at http://www.kairosofmaine.org.
SIDNEY – Kevin Richard Therriault, 58, lost his battle to cancer on Friday, May 19, 2023, at Maine Medical Center, in Portland. Kevin was born on February 9, 1965, in Rumford, to Richard “Dick” and Margaret “Ann” Therriault.
He grew up in Norridgewock and graduated from Skowhegan High School in 1983. He attended Eastern Maine Community College, in Bangor, where he acquired his associate degree in applied science with a major in electrical power technology and a Bachelor of Science Degree in business management from the University of Phoenix.
Kevin began his career at Central Maine Power Company in 1986 as a meter reader but moved quickly into electric operations and served in many positions over his 37-year career. For the last 10 years, he was in management and became senior director of system operations in 2021. Kevin was highly respected and loved by everyone who worked with or for him, and he spent the last three years of his career pouring into others through the company’s mentor program.
In 2013, he met the love of his life and best friend, Kerri, and they married on March 26, 2018, on Sanibel Island, in Florida. Anyone that knew them, knew the love, respect, and adoration they had for each other and where you saw one you always saw the other. Kevin adored his children and grandchildren and no matter what time day or night, if they needed him, he was there. Always at the ready with his tools in hand to fix or make whatever they needed. Kevin loved hunting, fishing, photography, golfing, snowmobiling and special projects and made sure he shared those passions with his children, grandchildren, friends, and family. One of Kevin’s greatest loves was being the assistant coach of the Skowhegan girls softball team, and if you knew Kevin, you heard the story of the 2014 state championship more than once.
Kevin was predeceased by his father, Richard, in 2015 and his mother Ann in 2021.
Kevin is survived by his wife, Kerri Therriault, of Sidney; his son Konnor and wife Alyssa Therriault, of Cornville; daughter Kaitlyn Therriault, of Athens; stepdaughter, Jessica and husband Jon Turner, of Augusta; and stepson, Kenneth Foster, of Seattle, Washington; his grandchildren, Harper Elizabeth, 3, Jackson Elliott, 2½, and Sawyer Ryley, six weeks; his brother and sister-in-law, Keith and Dee Therriault; sister and brother-in-law Karin and Chris Carey; his nieces and nephews Michael and wife Rachel Therriault, Chase and Sierra Carey, and Kayleigh and Chloe Therriault; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Rodney and Janice Nason, of Waterville; and sister-in-law, Vicki Nason, of Merrimack, New Hampshire.
There will be a celebration of life at the Skowhegan Area High School softball field on Saturday, July 8, 2023, at 11 a.m.
Arrangements are under the direction and care of Gallant Funeral Home, 10 Elm Street, Waterville. An online guestbook can be signed, condolences and memories shared at http://www.gallantfh.com.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Maine Blue Collar Scholarship Foundation, P.O. Box 606, Gorham, ME 04038,for a scholarship in Kevin’s memory for students pursuing careers in the electric technology field of study, or to MaineHealth Cancer Care, 265 Western Avenue, Suite 2, South Portland, ME 04106.
FAIRFIELD – Richard Cyr, 89, passed awy on Saturday, May 20, 2023, at his home. He was born on September 4, 1933, in Waterville, the son of Raoul and Margaret (Donnelly) Cyr. He attended local schools, graduating from Lawrence High School, in Fairfield, in 1951.
Dick was drafted into the U.S. Navy and served on the USS Elsmere during the Korean War. After the service, Dickie worked for the family business, D.B. Donnelly Hardware, for over 40 years. He was a very generous man, always willing to lend a hand. If someone was in need, he would open the store on Sundays or let them keep a tab. When the store closed in 1981, he went to work at Bill’s Truck Stop, in Fairfield, as the evening manager until he retired.
His nieces grew up in the hardware store roaming the aisles and spending time with their “second” dad Dickie. He loved taking them to the movies and the fairs. He was known as a terrible babysitter by the parents, but a loved one by the kids!
The month of May was always Dick’s favorite, a very loyal veteran, he would always put cemetery flags for any American Legion member. The American Legion, Post #14, in Fairfield, was very important part of his life. He served as the financial officer and the chaplain for many years. He was very proud to march in the Memorial Day parade for many years. You could also find Richard volunteering as an usher at the Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, in Fairfield, at the 6 p.m. Mass, for years.
Later in life, Dick was known around town for his pets. He would often be seen walking his dogs, Leibchen, Maggie, Zoey and Ziggy with frequent stops at the police department.
Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Raoul and Margaret Cyr; and a brother, Lawrence Cyr.
He is survived by his sister, Carole Boardman; his nieces Pam Sprague and husband Merton, Mary Bragdon and Stephanie Boardman Wallace and husband Scott; great-nephews Eric Farrington, Edward Hoyt and his wife Ashley Gilbert, David Wallace and wife Desiree and Tyler Bragdon; great-nieces Sierra Boardman and Dalis Bragdon and her partner Kyle Myska; great-great-nephews Jayden Farrington and Henry Hoyt; and cousin, Danny Cyr and wife Pat.
A Mass was held Wednesday May 31, at Notre Dame Catholic Church, 116 Silver St., Waterville. A private burial was held at the family plot at St. Francis Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Catholic Charities Development Office, P.O. Box 10660, Portland ME 04104-6060 or Humane Society Waterville Area, 100 Webb Rd., Waterville, 04901 or wherever people would prefer.
ALBION – Bruce Edwin Chadbourne, 68, passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 21, 2023, at home. Bruce was born September 19, 1955, to the late Gilbert and Elizabeth Williams Chadbourne.
He attended schools in Oakland, graduating in 1973 from Messalonskee High School. He then enlisted in the U.S. Air Force on September 5, 1975, as a cable splicer and received an honorable discharge March 16, 1981.
Bruce loved cars, and collected many with great intentions of fixing them all. But, unfortunately, there just wasn’t enough time. He took great pride in his carpentry work. He built his home, several other renovations, jacked camps and earned a lot of respect from his clients.
But Bruce’s biggest enjoyment was yard sales, and he had quite “The Big Eye” for the deals. He could look at a pile of junk and see treasures. Bruce will be sadly missed by many. His smile, his sense of humor, his caring for others, he never had a bad word for anyone.
Bruce is survived by his wife Becky, of 34 years; and his sister Robin, of Winslow.
He was predeceased by his brother, Lynn; many aunts, uncles, and cousins.
There will be a Celebration of Life on Sunday, June 18, 2023, from 1 – 4 p.m., at the Hudson Homestead, 808 Oakland Road, Belgrade.
In lieu of flowers, please donate, in Bruce’s memory, to Hospice of Waterville, 10 Water St., Waterville, ME 04901.
WHITEFIELD – Kenneth C. Roever, 79, of Whitefield, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, May 21, 2023, following a period of declining health. Kenneth was born February 24, 1944, in Brooklyn, New York, to Dudley A. Roever and Dorothe (Coleman) Roever.
He graduated from Midwood High School and earned a bachelor’s degree from New York Institute of Technology. Following graduation from college he moved to Saco, where he was employed by Saco Defense for 35 years. During that time, he met and married the love of his life Doris (Legere) Roever, and they were married for 35 years. They retired to a quiet life in Whitefield, where they have lived for the last 24 years. Kenneth was a very intelligent man who enjoyed the simple things in life. He cherished his time with Doris and his dog Mindy. He was a humble man of integrity, patience, strong values and generous with his time. He had a very strong faith in God and was an active communicant of St. Denis Catholic Church, in Whitefield, St. Michael Parish, in Augusta, where he served as an usher, a member of the bereavement committee, and St. Denis Senior Citizens Group.
His hobbies included anything to do with technology, model railroads, trains, cars, reading, learning foreign languages; he spoke French, Spanish and German. He enjoyed nothing more than being home out in his fields enjoying nature on his tractor. He liked watching documentaries on PBS and New England sports teams.
Kenneth was predeceased by his parents, Dudley and Dorothe Roever.
He is survived by his wife, Doris (Legere) Roever; cousin, Betty Jane Volmar, of Maryland; brother-in-law, John Legere and his wife Suzanne, of Windham; and nieces and nephews Katherine Legere, Joseph Legere, Anne Ranger, Blair Legere, Grace Legere and Luke Ranger.
Kenneth’s visitation will be from 4 – 6 p.m., on Wednesday, June 7, at Staples Funeral Home.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m., on Thursday, June 8, at St. Denis Catholic Church, in Whitefield, and burial will take place at 10 a.m., on Monday, June 12, at Calvary Cemetery, Broadway, South Portland.
Arrangements are entrusted with Staples Funeral Home and Cremation Care, 53 Brunswick Ave., Gardiner. Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the Staples Funeral Home website, http://www.staplesfuneralhome.com.
Donations in his memory may be made to St. Michael Parish, 24 Washington St., Augusta, ME 04330 or an animal shelter of your choice, or the American Cancer Society.
VASSALBORO – Ronald L. Smith, 75, passed away on Tuesday, May 23, 2023, at home following a courageous battle with cancer. He was born in Massachusetts, the son of Arthur and Blanche Smith.
Ronald, a long-time resident of Vassalboro, had many careers in his lifetime, learning to do just about anything. He became involved with landscaping, and this was his passion for 30 years. He started his own business. He had many clients and was well known for his expertise and work ethics. Someone they could count on for any of their needs.
Ron enjoyed hunting and fishing when he was young but gave that up to just enjoy the wildlife. He also enjoyed camping and road trips to Florida with his family, and, oh boy, did he love his road trips to Rangeley and up north, as well as walks on the beach at the coast stopping at places to check out the scenery and new restaurants along the way.
Ron was predeceased by his parents Arthur and Blanche Smith, of Vassalboro; brother, Reggie, of Oregon, sister, Alice, of Augusta; his first wife, June, in 1968 and second wife, Glennis, in 2012.
He is survived by his wife, Linda Whitney Smith, of Vassalboro; his daughter, Stephanie Cormier, of Augusta; Ron (Leon) Smith and wife, of Pittston; and several grandchildren; stepdaughter, Vicki; and stepson, Chad and wife; brothers Arthur, Jerry, Dennis, Virgil, and Warren Smith; sisters Linda, Jessica and Kathy.
At Ron’s request there will be no service. There will be a celebration of life at a later date.
Arrangements are under the care of Dan and Scott’s Funeral Home.
WINSLOW – Louise May (Shores) Bellows, 90, of Winslow, passed away peacefully in her sleep on March 6, 2023. Louise was born on August 23, 1932, in Fairfield, the eldest child to Erlon and Gladys (Brawn) Shores.
The family soon relocated to Albion, where Louise attended the Bessey School until the end of her eighth-grade year. Louise attended high school in Winslow, where she met her soulmate, Cecil Bellows, and became a graduating member of the class of 1951.
Louise married Cecil, in Benton Falls, on June 28, 1952. The couple welcomed their first son in 1953 and their second son in 1959.
Louise raised her sons and some of her siblings, all while helping Cecil run Bellows Texaco, in Winslow. They later managed the school busing for Winslow, Waterville, Vassalboro and China. Louise continued her duties alongside her husband Cecil, until his untimely passing on October 19, 1988, and then with her son, for over 55 years.
Louise’s first priority in life was to ensure her family was taken care of, but beyond that, she thrived in taking care of everyone she came across.
Throughout her time on this earth, Louise enjoyed many activities with her friends and family such as camping on Moosehead Lake and watching both her sons participate in stock car racing. Louise welcomed seven grandchildren and enjoyed all their activities some of which were also stock car racing and horse racing. Louise also enjoyed shopping with the grandchildren, lawn-saleing and dinner at the China Dinah. Louise was also able to welcome 11 of her 14 great-grandchildren. Every year Louise insisted on hosting all the holiday dinners for the entire family at her home and she made it a point to visit her brothers on “the farm” multiple times a week, bringing them “snacks”. Truth be told that was just an excuse to check in on them. Louise was a firm believer in showing her love by feeding everyone.
When Route 201 was a major trucking route she would often feed some of the drivers who made reoccurring fuel stops on their way through and would often board and feed other stock car drivers and their family or crew if she deemed their return home at night to be too long.
Louise had a heart of gold and loved to share it with the world around her. She will be loved forever and missed immensely.
Louise was predeceased by her parents, Erlon and Gladys Shores, her step mom Beverly Shores, her husband Cecil Bellows, brother Herbert and his wife Nelly Shores, brothers Fred, Donald and Dale Shores.
Louise is survived by her sister-in-law Lois Shores; sister Gloria and husband Ronald Gregory; brothers Amasa Shores and partner Darlene, Allen and Danny Shores; her sons Edward Bellows and wife Marie, Robert Bellows and wife Marie; her spare daughters Donna Drapeau Bellows and Cindy Rafuse; her grandchildren Brad Bellows and partner Jane, Casey Bellows, Kristie Bellows and husband Jim Wagg, Bryan Bellows and partner Stephanie, Roberta Bellows and partner Kayden, Bobby Bellows and partner Tayla, Nicole Genest and husband Todd; step-granddaughters Montana and Donna Roy; and many nieces and nephews; 14 great-grandchildren, Johnathan, Parker, Kylie, Olivia, Dinah, Judith, Carson, Jacob, Bryden, Caleb, baby girl Genest, Scarlett, Bryce and Freya.
Graveside service at McClintock Cemetery, Nowell Road, in Winslow, will be held at 11 a.m., on Sunday, June 4, followed by a potluck celebration of life at Winslow MacCrillis-Rousseau VFW Post #8835, from noon – 4 p.m. Please email if you are able to bring a dish mcamera@live.com or Facebook Marie Camera Bellows.
BENTON – Cynthia Marie Veilleux Elias, 81, of Benton, died on Wednesday, May 24, 2023. Cindy was born in Waterville on September 8, 1941, the daughter of Kenneth and Violet Drowns.
She grew up in Fairfield and was a graduate of Lawrence High School where she was a majorette.
Cindy married the love of her life, Richard J. Elias, Sr. on January 13, 1960. If anyone knew them, you witnessed the love and adoration they had for one another. They had celebrated their 56th wedding anniversary prior to Richard’s death. During their marriage, they raised four children.
She was a homemaker and worked part-time at Colby College, in Waterville, in dining services for over 45 years. She was an active member of St. Joseph Maronite Catholic Church, in Waterville, for many years and served on the Rosary Sodality.
Cindy loved to entertain, always ready for a celebration, party, or dance. She loved her family, friends, and neighbors. Christmas was her favorite holiday; nothing was ever too extravagant. She also enjoyed her many trips to the Maine coast.
She was predeceased by her parents; and husband, Richard.
Cindy is survived by two sons, Richard Elias Jr. and wife Nancy, of Portland, David Elias and wife Kelly, of Oakland; two daughters, Victoria Littlefield and husband Tim, of Florida, and Gayle Misner-Elias and husband Michael, of Benton; her grandchildren, Anthony, Kristy, Pilar, Nicholas, Kenneth, Benjamin, Anika, Simon, Sarah Grace, Isaac, and Elijah; great-grandchild, Nolan; her sisters Thamera and Deborah.
Liturgy of the Faithful Departed will be celebrated at 10 a.m., on Friday, June 2, at St. Joseph Maronite Catholic Church, 3 Appleton St., Waterville. Interment will proceed immediately following services at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, Grove Street, Waterville.
A celebration of Cindy’s life will be held at St. Joseph Maronite Catholic Church Hall following interment.
An online guestbook may be signed, condolences and memories shared at http://www.gallantfh.com.
In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to St. Joseph Maronite Catholic Church, 3 Appleton St. Waterville, ME 04901.
HARPSWELL – Sandy Dolley, 78, passed away at home on Tuesday, May 16, 2023, following a courageous battle with cancer. Sandy was born August 12, 1944, in Waterville, to Adrien and Simone (Beaulieu) Paradis.
She graduated from Waterville High School in 1962, then went to work as a secretary for the Wyandotte-Worsted Textile Mill, in Waterville, and Scott Paper Co., in Winslow. It was there she met the love of her life, Barry Dolley, whom she married on December 18, 1965, at St. Francis de Sales parish, in Waterville.
Sandy and Barry raised their five children in Winslow. They remained true life partners.
In addition to raising her children, Sandy worked various jobs, including overseeing family businesses, to include vacation/fishing camps and retirement/ Alzheimer’s homes, and baking for restaurants or dementia care facilities.
Sandy enjoyed sewing, crafting, baking and cooking. She especially enjoyed creating gifts, which she would pass out to friends and family liberally. She sold her original jams, jellies, pickles and dried herbs at craft fairs throughout southern and central Maine, where she gained a small following.
Sandy took great pleasure in all kinds of music, which often could be heard piping through her home. She was a fantastic dancer. She was always sporting enough to take her turn at the karaoke machine, although she could not carry a tune.
She was always up for adventures, from tasting food with unidentifiable ingredients out of streetcarts in Beijing, to venturing onto clothing optional beaches in Hawaii and ziplining over tropical forests.
In 2018 Sandy volunteered on a medical mission trip to the Philippines, to provide basic medical attention to those less fortunate than her.
Sandy’s favorite thing was to throw huge parties and invite all family and friends. In 1998, Sandy and Barry relocated and purchased their dream home on the water in Harpswell, and moved there shortly thereafter.
Sandy continues her battle against cancer as she made an anatomical gift of her body in the hope that she can help someone else’s loved one have a better chance of survival. Sandy is survived by her husband Barry, of Harpswell; her children, Michelle and her husband Gil Langlois, of Brunswick, Barry II, of Waterville, Jeffrey and his wife Jessica, of Brunswick, Shawn, of Gardiner, and Reneé, of Old Orchard Beach; her seven grandchildren, Adrienne, J. Luke, Adeline, William, Dylan, Liam, and Luke; her sisters Bonnie Shorey and husband Evan, of North Vassalboro, and Jolyne Paradis, of Waterville; her special cousin who was like a sister Joan Hallee and her husband Roland, of Waterville; many nieces, nephews and cousins.
A Catholic funeral Mass will be held on Tuesday, June 6, at 10 a.m., St. Katharine Drexel Church, in Harpswell.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Harpswell Heritage Land Trust, 153 Harpswell Neck Rd., Harpswell, ME 04079, 207-721-1121
LAS VEGAS, Nevada – Lucas M. Thomas, passed away on Wednesday, May 17, 2023.
A Celebration of Life was held on Monday, May 29, at Saint Joseph’s Maronite Church, 3 Appleton Street, Waterville. Interment was held at 11 a.m., on Tuesday, May 30, at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, Grove Street, Waterville.
To learn more about Lucas’s life we encourage you to visit http://www.gallantfh.com.
BENTON – Roger P. Averill, 89, passed away on Sunday, April 2, 2023, at home. He was born on September 28, 1933, at the old Waterville Osteopathic Hospital, to Charles I., and Edna M. Soule Averill, of Benton.
He attended grade schools in Benton and graduated from Lawrence High School, in Fairfield, in 1952. While in high school he was a member of the Future Farmers of America. He received the Star State Farmer Degree in 1951. While attending high school he was a dairy farmer, having a herd of 15 Jersey cows. He continued farming until 1960 when he went to work at Diamond Match, in Oakland. He worked there for over 30 years and worked his way up to a foreman. When the mill closed, he was sent to Minnesota and North Carolina as a consultant for the mills there. After that he became employed as a boiler operator at Thayer Hospital, in Waterville, and retired from Thayer in 1995.
While at Diamond Match he met and married Rachel Curtis, on March 5, 1961, and they celebrated their 57th wedding anniversary in 2018.
In 1984 he built Averill’s Mobile Home Park, in Benton, which is still in operation. He also owned Rocky Heritage Nursery and Gift Shop, in Benton, for many years.
He was chairman of the Benton Municipal Planning Board for many years and then vice chairman. He gave up those positions as he didn’t feel he had the time it required to dedicate to them and stepped down to a regular member of the board. He was also on the executive board of the Kennebec Valley Council of Governments and Revolving Loan Fund Committee, retiring from those positions in 2014. He was a member of the Benton Town Budget Committee. Also, the Cemetery Committee and Library Committee for a short time.
For many years he met monthly during the spring, summer and fall with his high school classmates of ’52 for supper at many restaurants in surrounding areas.
In spite of having two strokes in 2005 he was still able to work in the woods with his tractor, chainsaw and bulldozer and haul logs to several log yards with his son, Lewis Schoenig.
He loved flowers and was always planting something new. He enjoyed the livestock that his son Lou kept in the pastures when he was no longer able to run the farm himself. He also loved going to the coast at Bar Harbor in the fifth wheel camper, with his wife. Having a site right on the ocean, he enjoyed walking the beach and showing his grandchildren and great-grandchildren the sea life from under the seaweed. It always put a smile on his face to see the big oak shade tree and the flowers he had planted at that site. Feeding the seagulls bread and giving the chipmunks sunflower seed and peanuts in the shells by the bowl full was a pleasure for him to watch. The chipmunks would come up and eat out of his hand.
He had a fondness for Fryeburg Fair and was a lifetime member. Most of his time was spent in the horse and oxen pulling arena with Cyanne and Lou although he liked walking the fairgrounds and seeing what the vendors had for sale. He was very fond of steak bombs, dough boys, pizzas, fries and apple strudel with ice cream. He never missed a year, until 2012 while on his way to Fryeburg, his truck caught fire. While at Fryeburg he made a yearly trip to New Hampshire where he liked to shop at the Christmas Loft, Barton and Reid Gift Shop and the Chocolate Factory. Sweets was his passion and he would often eat his desserts before his main meal.
He was predeceased by his parents; his wife; and a brother, John, of Winslow.
Survivors include a daughter, Susan Schoenig and husband Lewis Schoenig; daughter, Bonnie Averill, of Waterville; and a stepdaughter, Deborah Green; grandchildren, Cyanne Schoenig and Jordan Thornhill.
Following cremation there will be no funeral services or celebration of life at his request. Roger stated his true family saw him every day and weekly and called him on the phone and with his Facebook. Roger said everyone that loved him visited and spent time with him at the home where he lived and passed away. He and his wife’s ashes will be placed in one urn and they will be buried together at their family cemetery in Benton on the home place where they lived.
VASSALBORO – Norman B. Moody, 92, passed away on Sunday, May 21, 2023. He was born on May 21, 2023. He was the son of the late Annie (Bradstreet) and Norman O. Moody.
Norman grew up in Augusta and, after graduating from Cony High School, he became a master plumber. In 1971 he married the love of his life, Avis Stevens Moody. They resided in Vassalboro for the remainder of their lives. They loved spending time at their cottage on Sheepscot Lake, in Palermo. They shared their love for the camp with family and friends.
Norman felt very strongly about getting an education. Norman and Avis started the Norman and Avis Moody Foundation through the University of Maine system to help send high school graduates to college who might not otherwise have had the means to go.
Norman was predeceased by his wife Avis; his sister, Martha Robillard, a sister-in-law, Donna Moody; a stepson, Dana Killam; and a granddaughter, Jessica.
He is survived by grandchildren Brian, Sherri, Steven, Jennifer, Matt, Tom, Jonathan; and Jeremy and his wife Rachel and their three children. Also, great-nieces and nephews; as well as great-grandchildren; his brother, Arnold Moody; stepsons Gary and Jim Killam; nieces Nanette and Sara; nephews Dan and his wife Wilma and Norman.
At his request, there will be no visiting hours. A graveside committal was held on Tuesday, May 30, at Branch Mills Cemetery, China.
Arrangements are under the care of Plummer Funeral Home, Windsor Chapel, 983 Ridge Rd., Route 32, Windsor.
Condolences, photos and stories may be shared through the funeral home website at: http://www.plummerfh.com.
SIDNEY – Relatives and friends are invited to a spring committal service for Betty Smith, 92, of Sidney, who died December 11, 2022, at 1 p.m., on Friday, June 2, at Springer Cemetery, River Road, Sidney.
WINSLOW – Graveside service for Elizabeth Ferland will be held at Pine Grove Cemetery, Waterville, Saturday, June 3, at 10 a.m.
Looking south down Main St., in Fairfield. (Internet photo)
The town of Fairfield is excited to announce the opening of the Cattail Trail, a new trail that runs adjacent to Lawrence High School. The trail will host its opening in conjunction with National Trail Day on Saturday, June 3. Recognizing the importance of protecting natural resources and inviting the public to participate in the beautification of Fairfield’s trails, the event will also highlight three additional trails that create linkages throughout the municipality: the Kennebec Valley Community College (KVCC) Campus Trail, the Goodwill-Hinckley Trails, and the Mill Island Trail.
“Fairfield’s trail system provides linkages to key areas within the municipality, including our downtown and Mill Island Park,” states Fairfield Town Manager Michelle Flewelling. “We are thrilled to celebrate the seasonal opening of the Cattail Trail and demonstrate our commitment to community development. This event is an opportunity to connect with residents and visitors to showcase the municipality’s scenic trails and invite the public to enjoy Fairfield and Hinckley’s natural resources.”
National Trails Day will also recognize the launch of the Fairfield Trails Passbook initiative, which will be open until September 4, 2023. Visitors are encouraged to utilize Fairfield’s trail systems throughout the summer. Each trail will have a QR code that will allow users to photograph their visits along the town’s trails. Participants who walk and record all four trail site visits will be entered into a drawing for a prize, with the drawing taking place after Labor Day.
“The addition of Cattail Trail into Fairfield’s existing hub and spoke trail system symbolizes a commitment to the natural environment, stewardship of recreational resources, and growing the town as a vibrant and walkable community,” states Central Maine Growth Council Director of Planning, Innovation, and Economic Development Garvan Donegan. “Residents and visitors of all ages will have the ability to enjoy the waterfront while being connected to a variety of local resources and services, such as Memorial Park and Mill Island Park.”
The American Hiking Society’s National Trail Day highlights a national movement to create more inclusive and accessible trail networks. The Economic and Community Development Committee of Fairfield are spearheading the event and will be present at the Cattail Trail to assist walkers on their journeys from 10 a.m. – noon. The Cattail Trail is located adjacent to Lawrence High School, and the opening event will take place from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., on June 3. Attendees are encouraged to explore the trail system and learn more about the Fairfield Trails Passbook initiative.
by Mary GrowIssues discussed at the May 25 Vassalboro select board meeting included money and a looming problem between the town and the Maine Department of Transportation (MDOT).
Town Manager Aaron Miller reviewed the current year’s budget as the June 30 end of the fiscal year approaches. He pointed out a potential overdraft in the administration budget, with enough left over in public works to offset it if board members so decide.
In summary, he said, “I think we’re in good shape.”
Town assessor Ellery Bane sent select board members notice that because of rising real estate prices, Vassalboro’s property assessments have fallen well below market value and the state assessment. By state law, state and local assessments cannot deviate too far without the town being penalized.
Bane proposed a 20 percent town-wide valuation increase. Select board members agreed in principle, but wanted to talk with school Superintendent Alan Pfeiffer to make sure there would be no unexpected effect on school funding if they supported 20 percent.
Taxes will not increase 20 percent, Miller said. The higher valuation will mean a lower tax rate will bring the same amount of money into town coffers, so most property-owners’ bills should be about what they would have been without the adjustment.
On a related topic, Miller said Vassalboro has not had a complete revaluation for 16 years; he recommended select board members consider setting aside funds to pay for one. The quarterly reviews Bane and his staff do, inspecting a quarter of the town’s properties each year, are to note changes, not to assess values.
The MDOT issues are related to the planned Route 32 (Main Street) work in North Vassalboro. Earlier in May, Miller emailed the department about the new covers on the Vassalboro Sanitary District (VSD) manholes in sections to be repaved and the town’s desire to keep granite curbing along Main Street.
A reply from MDOT engineer Robert K. Betz said that while MDOT is “obliged to accommodate utilities,” like the VSD, it cannot legally “be financially responsible for utility presence in highway easements.”
Therefore, if the manhole covers need to be changed to accommodate MDOT’s repaving, VSD will be responsible. Betz wrote that “it is likely that adjustments will be needed,” but he was not sure because the design of the work is not complete.
VSD head Raymond Breton was appalled. He said last year’s work to replace the manhole covers cost $400,000 and the District does not have the money to do it again.
Betz had not had time to consider the town’s request to keep granite curbing.
Miller said he intends to arrange a meeting among affected local parties and MDOT officials.
Select board member Chris French had three more assignments for Miller:
The May 25 meeting was preceded by two public hearings that attracted one comment.
The first hearing was on proposed fees for local marijuana licenses. When board chairman Barbara Redmond asked for comments, there were none from the half-dozen people in the audience.
Redmond then opened the second hearing, on approved new application fees for site review permits, recommended by the planning board: $100 for a minor site review and $400 for a major site review.
“Good job,” said fellow select board member Frederick “Rick” Denico, Jr., who missed the previous meeting when the fees were approved (see the May 25 issue of The Town Line, pp. 2-3). There were no further comments.
The next regular Vassalboro select board meeting will be Thursday evening, June 8.
Before that is the open part of the annual town meeting, beginning at 6:30 p.m., Monday, June 5, at Vassalboro Community School. Local elections and other written-ballot voting will be held Tuesday, June 13, with polls open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the town office.
Absentee ballots for June 13 are available at the town office. The annual town report for FY 2022 is also available.
by Mary GrowAt their May 23 meeting, China Planning Board members unanimously approved a permit application related to the planned rebuilding of the dam in Branch Mills, on the West Branch of the Sheepscot River.
Codes Officer Nicholas French said the application is to move more than 100 cubic yards of earth, an activity that requires a planning board permit when located in the shoreland district.
The application was filed by the Brunswick-based Atlantic Salmon Federation (ASF); it was presented to the China board by Melissa Cote, Sheepscot River watershed manager for the Midcoast Conservancy, headquartered in Edgecomb. Accompanying paperwork says the Branch Pond dam, aka Dinsmore dam, is owned by the Brewer-based Maine Council Atlantic Salmon Federation, which has authorized ASF to rebuild the dam.
ASF’s summary on the first page of the application to the planning board says the project is “To repair the Branch Pond Dam to comply with state dam safety standards and operate correctly to meet the water level order, construct a fishway for native migratory fish to access their historic habitat, replacement of the dry fire hydrant so that it functions, create a hand-carry boat ramp for recreation and emergencies, improvements to gravel parking area for public access, security fencing and plantings for stabilization.”
The application says the property is about half an acre around the dam on both sides of the Sheepscot. The dam is more than 200 years old, the application says, “and does not meet safety requirements and cannot operate to handle flood events nor meet water level order.”
The Army Corps of Engineers (ACE) classified the dam as a “significant hazard” in October 1981, and the Maine Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) has reaffirmed the finding, while no “significant repairs” have been made.
The water level order was issued by the Maine Department of Environmental Protection (MDEP) in October 2014 at the request of Branch Pond residents. The dam controls the pond’s water level.
Kleinschmidt Associates, of Pittsfield, has been working on engineering plans for the last five years. Repair work includes new gates and fill along the shore.
An Alaska SteepPass Fishway (made by Sheepscot Machine Works, in Newcastle, according to the company’s website) will help alewives and perhaps other migratory fish species go upstream to historic spawning grounds. A “gated plunge pool” will facilitate autumn downstream migration.
The application says the dry fire hydrant doesn’t work; a 2022 inspection team that included Palermo and China fire chiefs found it “was never constructed properly decades ago and needed to be completely replaced.”
The project needs other approvals and permits besides China’s. The application references historic preservation, endangered species (Atlantic salmon and Northern Long-Eared Bats), and permit applications being reviewed by the MDEP and the ACE.
The written application, and Cote in her presentation, emphasized consultation with affected residents and groups, like the Branch Pond Association; with local officials; and with state and federal agencies. A recent example was the May 6 public meeting in the Grange Hall, in Branch Mills. Cote said about 35 people attended, and there was “no negative feedback.”
Planning board continues preparing new section of land development code
After their May 23 permit approval for the Branch Mills dam work, China Planning Board members returned to their ongoing project, preparing a new section of China’s Land Development Code that, if approved by voters, would regulate solar installations in town.
Working from a draft that currently has 13 sections, they got part way into section 6 at their May 9 meeting and into section 7 on May 23.
The first three sections are standard: title, authority and purpose. Following sections involve defining types of installations covered and developing standards, complex processes board members discussed in detail.
The good news is that Section 13, when they get to it, has a single sentence: “The Ordinance becomes effective on [insert date].”
Board members intend to develop a draft in the next couple months and ask China select board members to present it to town voters on Nov. 8.
The board’s first June meeting would have fallen on June 13, Election Day. The reschedule date, as of May 30, was Thursday, June 15.
Michelle Shores
Local Maine Author, Michelle E. Shores, of Waterville, whose recently published book The Gathering Room – A Tale of Nelly Butler, has been awarded a 2023 IPPY AWARD for Best Fiction in the Northeast Region, Bronze Medal.
The Independent Publisher Book Awards, commonly known as the IPPY Awards, are a prestigious set of awards that recognize excellence in independent publishing. They have been held annually since 1996 and aim to highlight the best independently published books in a variety of categories.
The Gathering Room – A Tale of Nelly Butler brings to life, in fiction, the dramatic account of the first documented ghost sighting in America which occurred in Maine in 1799. Based on a true story, Michelle’s work weaves an epic tale of what the lives of George and Nelly Butler might have been like as they faced the supernatural in the form of a young girl, Lydia Blaisdell. Set in Sullivan and Franklin in Downeast Maine this is a haunting story that captivates the reader from the start.
Since its release in September 2022, The Gathering Room – A Tale of Nelly Butler has been a top selling book for Maine Authors Publishing located, in Thomaston. The book has sold in every state in the U.S. as well as Canada and the United Kingdom. Highly rated on Amazon, it is available in paperback and Kindle. Until recently, Michelle was the advertising manager for the Maine Tourism Association but had to give up her full-time job to meet the demands of this best-selling book. Michelle is willing to discuss her book, her journey into self publishing and being a bronze medalist in the IPPY Awards for Best Fiction in the Northeast.
For more information, contact Michelle at writerinmaine@gmail.com or 207-944-8361 or check out her website https://www.mshoreswriter.com/ or on all social media @mshoreswriter.