New Dimensions FCU awards two scholarships to local high school students

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Shivon Larsen and Kaiden Kelley accepted their scholarship certificates on Wednesday, April 26, 2023. (contributed photo)

New Dimensions FCU has announced that Shivon Larsen, from Temple Academy, in Waterville, and Kaiden Kelley, from Erskine Academy, in South China, have been selected as New Dimensions FCU’s 2023 Scholarship Program winners who have earned $2,500 each for their first year in college.

New Dim­ensions FCU awards scholarships to deserving high school seniors demonstrating strong character, community involvement, and academic success. This year, both students’ essays showed their character and assessment of financial literacy aligned with our mission and values.

Shivon Larsen will be attending Kennebec Valley Community College (KVCC), in Fairfield, in the fall in General Studies and plans to pursue classes in financial education. Kaiden Kelley will attend Plymouth State University, in New Hampshire, to study Graphic Design.

Ryan Poulin, Chief Executive Officer, states, “Our Scholarship Program is one of the ways we support our community. Often, we hear from students that financial education is an underdeveloped skill they would like to enhance. We do our best to provide them with the necessary tools and resources by adding financial education into their school’s curriculum and offering our Scholarship Program to show the importance of financial success.”

For more information, contact NDFCU at (800) 326-6190 or visit www.newdimensionsfcu.com

MY POINT OF VIEW – Memorial Day: a day to remember

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by Gary Kennedy

Well, here we are again my friends. We are about to have another long weekend and it looks like it will be a beautiful day, weather wise.

For those who aren’t aware Memorial Day originally was known as Decoration Day. Unlike Veterans Day it is to pay our respects to those who have given their lives so the rest of us may be free. It is a federal holiday in the USA for honoring/mourning those soldiers, sailors and fly boys/girls (men & women), for their sacrifice.

The Civil War was the bloodiest war in our history; which ended in 1865. The first National Cemetery was established shortly after this war. The origin of this holiday is still unclear but it is believed that the first gathering to commemorate the fallen was organized by a group of former slaves in Charleston, South Carolina, in 1865. In 1966 the federal government declared Waterloo, New York, the official birthplace of Memorial Day. Waterloo was the first to host and celebrated it on May 5, 1866.

Many of us get confused between Memorial Day and Veterans Day. The difference is simple. We celebrate all the men and women who died defending our way of life; in particular our military. Veterans Day on the other hand is celebrated respecting all who have served. Many of these veterans are disabled, some seriously but didn’t die, as of yet. However, we place wreaths, flags, and flowers at the stones of those who have joined their Creator. Tears are shed, prayers are prayed. Every year at this time we thank them and acknowledge their supreme sacrifice. Unfortunately, without this sacrifice we would be enslaved by an entity that doesn’t respect life as we do.

In addition to placing flowers, wreaths, insignias and such, it is tradition that we place a wreath on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldiers, at Arlington National Cemetery, in Arlington, Virginia. This is a somewhat special event as this tomb represents all the unknown soldiers buried there. Also there are approximately 2,111 Union and Confederate soldiers buried beneath the tomb of the Civil War Unknowns. The inscription on the Tomb reads, “Here Rests in Honored Glory an American Soldier known but to God.” However, since the insemination of this event we have discovered the identity of that original soldier, 1st Lieutenant Michael Joseph Blassie, of St. Louis, Missouri. He died on May 11, 1972, near An Loc, South Vietnam.

The inscription has been changed since the unknown became known. It now reads, “Honoring and keeping Faith with America’s Missing Servicemen”. In another article I will give you complete details on Arlington, Virginia. It has a long and colorful history that I am sure you will enjoy reading.

After World War I, Memorial Day was expanded to encompass all who died defending their country in any and all wars. The holiday is always celebrated on the last Monday of May, which is considered the unofficial beginning of summer. It has evolved over the years and become more festive. It has become a time for family and friends to gather together and enjoy cook-outs or watch the Indy 500 together. However, it is suggested that at 3 p.m., on this serene holiday that a moment of silence take place. It’s just a moment in time to “thank the fallen for your ability to be standing.”

We respect our veterans and more so those who gave it all and are not able to join you on this sacred day. It’s good to remember and to early on teach our children history’s value to them. It’s a great lesson in respect.

Well, I and everyone here at The Town Line wish you a very happy and safe Memorial Day. Don’t forget the Moment of Silence at 3 p.m. It’s a little, wonderful thing you can do. I always feel the fallen are ever vigilant and watch over the Land of the Free and the Home of the Brave. God bless and protect you and yours and have a safe and happy long weekend.

Annual law enforcement service honored 88 fallen Maine officers

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Law enforcement officials from around the state marched to the memorial on State St., in Augusta. (photo by Mark Huard, Central Maine Photography)

by Mark Huard

Kennebec County Sheriff Ken Mason salutes the fallen officers. (photo by Mark Huard, Central Maine Photography)

On Tuesday, May 16, 2023 the Maine Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Service took place on State Street, in Augusta, just outside of the states capitol building.

The street in front of the memorial was shut down for the ceremony as columns of officers from various agencies around the state marched from Capitol Park, then stood in formation facing the memorial.

Several speakers acknowledged the fact that this year, no new names were added to the memorial which currently holds the names of 88 members of law enforcement that have lost their lives protecting others. The names of all 88 Maine’s fallen officers were read. A wreath was placed on the memorial as bagpipes played Amazing Grace, and the bugle played Taps.

“Young and old, veteran and rookie. These men sacrificed their own lives to protect life and property in the state of Maine,” said Gov. Janet Mills, during the annual Maine Law enforcement Officers Memorial.

The crowd which attended the ceremony. (photo by Mark Huard, Central Maine Photography)

Oakland Police Chief Michael Tracy salutes the fallen officers. (photo by Mark Huard, Central Maine Photography)

(photo by Mark Huard, Central Maine Photography)

Lake Life Today: While planning for the future

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FALL SCENE: Susan Thiem, of Texas, a summer resident on China Lake, took this photo prior to her departure this past fall.

submitted by Elaine Philbrick

Lake Life Today is a series of articles that we hope 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 Lakes 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.

  • Be LakeSmart
  • Lakes Environmental Association
  • LakeSmart Tip: Spring Cleaning

As you open your camp this spring, consider the following suggestions for protecting your lake.

Cleaning Up Yard Debris

Pine needles, leaves, and other undisturbed vegetative material (small, downed branches and twigs) can help supplement your property’s “duff layer” at the shoreline. This is a layer of decaying leaf and undisturbed vegetative material that creates a buffer-like area to promote your landscape’s ability to infiltrate stormwater. Promoting vegetation at the shoreline’s edge will also protect the riparian zone for wildlife habitat on your shorefront property. It is advisable to retain as much of this natural duff layer as possible while still being able to enjoy your property.

  • Pine needles and leaves should not be raked up except to provide a safety barrier around your fire pit or to maintain your (hopefully minimal) lawn. Regarding lawns generally: Please avoid importing “fancy aesthetics” to your lakeside, such as miniature or dwarf fruit trees. Instead go with more natural shoreline plants that would help stabilize your buffer. It is Maine’s lakeside natural environment that we all love. Go to Shoreline Landscaping for Lake Protection, Maine Department of Environmental Protection for more info.
  • Downed branches and other debris should only be removed in areas where you recreate or walk.
  • Leaving the natural duff layer is a critical part of the forest ecosystem and should be left intact outside of footpaths.
  • Also, try to avoid using commercial fertilizers that contain concentrations of phosphorous (i.e., a nutrient that contributes to algae blooms in our lakes).

Activating Your Septic Tank

Septic tanks activate after the winter naturally. No additives are needed to get your septic tank’s bacterial process started in the spring. Rid-X and similar bacterial enzyme additives interfere with natural tank bacterial action, often causing accelerated breakdown of solid and turning sludge into a slurry which can then enter and plug up your leach field. Do not waste your money on products that don’t work and can harm your septic system!

Maintaining Water Diverters

Existing open top “box” culverts and/or so-called “rubber razors blades” installed along your camp road need periodic inspection and cleaning. Runoff into these diverters carries silt which builds up and can reduce or eliminate the diverter’s capacity to function. In open top culverts, remove the silt which settles. Similarly, clean up the silt which builds along the uphill edge of any rubber razor blades, and dredge the outlet edge of all diverters to remove the silt that has built up there.

At the Water’s Edge

  • Inspect your dock entrance to ensure it is not allowing runoff into the lake.
  • Assess whether there is any undercutting of the lake bank from waves crashing into your shoreline.

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 Townline newspaper.

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

CRITTER CHATTER: Fox news: And I don’t mean the cable channel

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by Jayne Winters

In mid-April, I got a call from Don at the Duckpond Wildlife Rehab Center, asking if I still wanted to take pictures of a “little red.” I’m always up for a photo opportunity, especially of young critters, so I headed over expecting to see a baby red squirrel in one of the incubators. When I arrived, however, the incubators were empty and Don pointed to a plastic pet carrier in the living room. I peeked inside and looked into the sweetest face of a tiny fox kit!

Her background story was, of course, sad. She had been found by the side of the road in the Belfast area; Don suspected the mother fox had been moving her litter to a new den and, at some point in crossing the road, was startled by a car and dropped this little girl. He guessed her age to be about four weeks old. The plaintive cries coming out of the carrier were truly heartbreaking; l assumed she was missing her litter mates and scared of being in a strange place with humans. As soon as I opened the latch, she popped right out for her photo shoot and became interested in her new surroundings.

Like most red fox kits, “our” little girl has soft fuzzy fur, mostly gray, except for a white tip on her tail. When I visited last week, she was very playful and active, apparently thriving under adoptive parental care. Wild animals have higher metabolisms and different nutritional requirements than a domestic kitten or puppy, so it’s important to provide the right type of fat and protein. She’s currently being fed a mixture of canned dog food and milk replacement, four times a day. Even as an adult, she would not be fed dry food as it has too much ash, which can cause kidney stones or even death. Foxes are canines, closely related to wolves and dogs, so should not be fed pork, cat food, or anything toxic to dogs, like chocolate or grapes. As she gets older, she’ll be gradually transitioned to all canned dog food, with occasional raw chicken as a treat. Don is also treating her for mites, as she has evidence of bites under her fur, and he wants to ward off mange.

Don was hoping another kit would be admitted so the two of them could share a pen outside, once they’re a bit bigger and the weather warms up (especially overnight). Last week, a second fox kit was rescued, but he’s larger and wary (which is a good thing), not good roommate material at the moment. It’s likely there will be more kits brought to Duck Pond in the upcoming weeks, so hopefully “Little Red” [my name for her] will bond with one or more of them.

The goal of rehabbing is to not only rescue and nurture injured and/or abandoned animals, but to return them to the natural environment where they belong. I asked Don how younger kits are “trained” to hunt so they can be successfully returned to the wild. Not to my surprise, it’s a difficult task. Over time, dead mice will be put in the outside pen, hidden in hay or under brush, so the kits can “hunt” for their food. Their survival in the wild depends on their ability to fend for themselves and avoid human contact. It’s hard to maintain minimal contact with the very young animals when you have to feed them frequently (often with a bottle) and provide health care. The sooner “Little Red” can be outside the carrier, out of the house and in the natural outside elements, and with others of her kind, the better her chance for successful release.

Spring is officially here and there are signs of new life everywhere, from plants and flowers starting to bloom to birds nesting and, of course, more calls coming in to Duck Pond about orphaned or injured critters. Don, Jane, and Debbie are certainly keeping busy! Some rescues are still being transferred to other rehabbers who are helping to keep critter care at Duck Pond manageable. Please check the following web sites 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 non-profit 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.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, May 25, 2023

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SUSAN WILLIAMSON

JEFFERSON – Susan Williamson’s passed away on Thursday, April 20, 2023, following more than a three-year increasingly difficult battle with a very debilitating Parkinson’s like disease (Progressive Supranuclear Palsy – PSP).

Susie was a graduate of Pittsford High School, in upstate New York, and Cornell University, where she majored in home economics.

Following graduation, she taught high school for a year in Webster, New York, and then married and joined her BFF, Bill, in Japan, where he was serving in the U.S. Army. While there, they lived in the town of Chitose and Susie taught English as a second language, in Sapporo, soon to be the site of the ’72 Winter Olympics.

Susie could be very enjoyably persuasive when required. Like her father, who managed a nationwide sales force at Eastman Kodak, Susie got to know and positively influenced many people. She designed the family home in Framingham, Massachusetts, and her home making, design, and decorating here in Maine continues to bless her family.

She worked as the secretary of Plymouth Church, in Framingham, Massachusetts, and the chairman of numerous church committees. She also helped out as a substitute teacher in the school system where her boys were enrolled, managing to keep from embarrassing them while she helped their friends learn to cook. We remember her telling one unruly child that he had better behave because “she knew his mother.” Another time she casually mentioned to a general in the Army buying a pinball game in Japan, that it might not be the best purchase because his wife would probably object to all of the small balls and pieces. Her husband Bill, was quickly making himself a stranger on that one.

The family took many trips together over the years that Susie carefully planned. One of the favorites was a trip back to Japan with the boys to become reacquainted with many friends there. Tad had majored in Japanese while in college and served as a translator. Another trip was to the British Isles where they visited many historic sites, learned about Williamson history, drove on the left side of the road and enjoyed Monty Python tapes. Later, some of the people that were visited in Japan made trips to visit both in Massachusetts and in Maine, and the family was able to return the favor of their kind hospitality.

She is survived by her husband Bill; brother, Chip, of Laurel, Maryland; sons, Tad, of Merrimack, Massachusetts, and Tobey, of Rockland; and four grandchildren.

Funeral arrangements are incomplete at the moment, but will be a private celebration of her life and the sharing of many good stories.

Arrangements are under the direction and care of the Strong-Hancock Funeral Home, 612 Main St., Damariscotta, ME 04543. Condolences, and messages for her family, may be expressed by visiting: http://www.StrongHancock.com.

Because research is ongoing, and will hopefully save other families in the future from this truly terrible disease, in lieu of flowers, donations in her name can be made to CurePSP, 1216 Broadway, 2nd Floor, New York, NY 10001.

ALTON O. DIXON

BENTON – Alton O. Dixon, 79, passed away on Friday, April 28, 2023. Alton (known by all as “Al”) was born on January 10, 1944, in Benton, the son of Ole and Emma (Rood) Dixon.

He was one of 13 children. Al graduated from Lawrence High School, in Fairfield, in 1962, and enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1963. In 1965, he married his wife, Cora, and went on to have four children.

Al was passionate about making a better life from the start. He was self-motivated and could always be found working, no matter the time of day. He is known locally as the founder and co-owner of Al’s Pizza and Al’s Drive-In, both inFairfield, which he and Cora first established in 1965. After more than 30 years in the restaurant business, Al decided to hang up his apron and pursue his interest in real estate investment.

Al’s gregarious and kind-hearted nature certainly contributed to his success in life. He was always willing to engage a friend or customer in conversation. Despite his relentless work ethic, Al found time to spend with his family and friends. He was an active member of the Benton Falls Congregational Church and was generous to the local causes he supported. Al leaves a legacy of hard-work, grit, and generosity. The family warmly invites friends and family to keep Al alive in their hearts as many were touched by his presence and are better because of that.

He was a strong, kind, loving, and supportive father and grandfather.

Al is survived by his wife of 58 years, Cora Dixon; and his children, June Dixon (Dana), Dean Dixon (Vickie), Dale Dixon (Mary), and Danyl Dixon (Kim); three grandchildren, Rachael Hook (Eric), Jimmy Dixon (Taylr), and Alexander Dixon.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday June 24, from 1 to 5 p.m., at O’Brien’s Event Center, 375 Main St., Waterville.

ALAN R. STEVENS

BELGRADE – Alan R. Stevens, 80, passed away Sunday, April 30, 2023, following a second battle with cancer.

He was an outdoorsmen, avid hunter, fisherman, and trapper. He grew up in Bingham and for some time worked in the fire towers

He was predeceased by his father Alan Elwood Stevens, his mother, and his brother Gary Stevens.

Alan is survived by one son Parker Stevens and his family, of Bingham.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Giberson Funeral Home and Cremation Services. To leave a condolence for the family and to view the online obituary, please visit http://www.gibersonfuneralhome.com.

JOSEPH M. DUNN

BELGRADE – Joseph Michael Dunn, 45, died unexpectedly Thursday, May 11, 2023, at home. He was born February 11, 1978, in Augusta, the son of Gary William and Geraldine Rosaria (Dupuis) Dunn.

Joe grew up in Farmingdale where he made life-long friends he loved like family, dubbing themselves the “Bowman Street All-Stars”. He was a 1997 graduate of Hall-Dale High School where he was a natural born leader full of energy and mischief, which undoubtedly made many of his teachers question their choice of profession on more than one occasion.

After graduation, he moved to Portland where he attended Southern Maine Technical College, earning degrees in electrical technology and culinary arts. Joe worked as an electrician for many years, but like his Pépère Dupuis, was a born entrepreneur and went on to successfully own and operate his own business, Grass Root Grower, LLC, in Augusta.

He was an avid outdoorsman most of his life and enjoyed hiking, fishing, camping, hunting, gardening, and spending time with friends, family, and his dog, Kekoa. He treasured the time he spent going to concerts with his wife, their friends, and his youngest sister. Before illness restricted his mobility, he could be seen riding his motorcycle all summer long, traveling to Hawaii or putting on an unforgettable and death-defying fireworks display for his friends and family that put the town’s fireworks display to shame.

Joe was a thoughtful uncle; the kind that always thought to put money in the swear jar when his nieces and nephews were little – frequently paying in advance as he walked through the door. He would take them boating, fishing, camping, hiking and had recently begun revealing the best spots to pick fiddleheads. He loved to spoil them and whenever they had movie nights at his house, he would bring them to the store to pick out “pirate treats” and never tell them no, no matter how much junk food they filled the cart with. He was loved and will be dearly missed by so many.

He was generous in many ways toward so many people and he loved and accepted others despite their faults. As his illness progressed, both friends and relatives spoke life into him and ministered to him. His heart was open, and he looked forward to the day he would be in Heaven and rid of the pain and anguish that plagued his body and mind. We believe God’s promises to be true and know that Joe departed this world knowing, accepting, and believing in the one true God. He is now free of pain and full of the peace and joy that can only come from experiencing God’s presence. We look forward to the day we will see and laugh with him again.

He was predeceased by his grandparents, Kenneth and Audrey (Parsons) Dunn and Michel and Gertrude (Dube) Dupuis; aunts Diane (Dupuis) Hopper and Nancy Dupuis, uncle, Howard Spiller; cousins Shawn Devault and Dominique Harrington; and father-in-law, Daniel Williams.

Besides his parents, Joe is survived by his wife, Crystal (Williams) Dunn; stepdaughters Mary Jane and Miya Williams; his godsons Gavin and Mason Brill; mother-in-law, Wiliwan Tippe; sisters Danielle and her husband Shawn Brooks, and Jessica and her husband Jacob Norton; sister-in-law, Catherine and her husband Shamus Perfetto; nephews Noah, Jason, Ryan, and Christian Brooks, Elijah and Isaac Norton, Cody Davis, and Liam Perfetto; nieces Calleigh Brooks and Aubrey Norton; many aunts, uncles; cousins.

A memorial service will be held on Sunday, May 28, at 1 p.m., at Plummer Funeral Home, 16 Pleasant St., Augusta. A celebration of life reception will immediately follow the service at the Augusta Elks Lodge. In honor of Joe, attendees are encouraged to wear Grass Root Grower or Tie Dye attire. Condolences, stories and photos may be shared by visiting http://www.plummerfh.com.

ALICE GOGAN

WATERVILLE – Alice Gogan, 86, of Waterville, passed away Friday, May 12, 2023. She was born June 25, 1937.

Alice had a heart of gold. She never had much, but if you needed help she would give you the shirt off her back. Taking care of others and making sure they felt love and felt safe. When Alice was at Woodland, in Waterville, she would go check on all the other residents at night to make sure they had blankets to keep them warm. She never judged anyone and when she loved, her love never stopped.

Alice’s days were filled with loving and caring for her children, who were Bert and wife Linda, Becky and husband Rick from Texas, Lisa and Peter, from Connecticut, Jesse and wife Gay, Billy and wife Linda, Raymond, Rachel and husband Bun, Tina and husband Doug, of Maine. Alice had many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren; a sibling, Stella and her husband Leo “Junior”, of Maine; an extended family that she would never turn away.

Alice was predeceased by her parents Albert and Eva Cote; her siblings Roland and Juliette; and her daughter, Rhonda Shaw.

A graveside service was held on Friday May 19, at Ames Cemetery River Road, Benton.

Arrangements are in the care of Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 107 Main St., Fairfield where memories may be shared, and an online register book signed by visiting http://www.lawrybrothers.com.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be sent to an animal shelter of your choice in memory of Alice Gogan AKA (Jean Gogan). She loved animals.

SUZANNE BOUDIN

WATERVILLE – Suzanne “Sue” Boudin, 74, passed away on Saturday, May 13, 2023, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, following a long illness. Sue was a lifelong Maine resident, born on January 4, 1949, in Lewiston, daughter of Constance and Robert LeBlanc, Sr.

She attended Sts. Peter and Paul Grammar School, St. Dominic Regional High School, in Lewiston, and received her B.A. from Rivier College, Nashua, New Hampshire.

She married in 1971 and had two sons, André Dumais and wife Alysia, of Vernon, Connecticut, Jean Paul Dumais and wife Amanda, of Saco. In 1982, she married Kenneth Boudin, of Waterville, the love of her life.

Family meant everything to Sue. One way she expressed that love was through the creation of cross-stitched wall hangings, celebrating family members’ weddings and newborn births. She and her husband Ken hosted summer family reunions at their camp on Lake Quantabacook, in Searsmont. It was always a beautiful family weekend, full of great food, boat rides, swimming, and family tales.

In an effort to create family memories, Sue began scrapbooking. After traveling, she would create scrapbooks depicting various travel adventures. Over the 40 years of marriage, Sue and Ken traveled to Australia and New Zealand, California, historic Richmond, Virginia, Nashville, Tennessee, Branson, Missouri, Austin and San Antonio, Texas, Kissimmee and Ft. Myers, Florida. Sister weeks took them to places such as the Shenandoah Valley, historic Virginia and Washington D.C., Sedona, Arizona, New Orleans, Louisiana, historic Charleston, SouthCarolina, and Savanah, Georgia, and the California San Francisco Bay area. Some of these trips have been documented through Sue’s outstanding scrapbooking.

During the COVID pandemic, Sue used her creative skills once again to make over 200 personalized masks for family members and the fellow patients at the DCI dialysis clinic.

There was never a challenge too big for Sue. With her organizational skills, she was a quick technology learner and then took on the challenge of teaching others. These organizational skills were also evident in her home and projects.

An avid reader, she enjoyed discussing and sharing the books that most appealed to her. It was also a part of the weekly ZOOM conversations with siblings during the COVID pandemic.

She is survived by her husband, Ken; her two sons, André and Jean Paul; four grandchildren, Jori of Syracuse, New York, Abegail, of San José, California, Reagen and Quinn, of Vernon, Connecticut; and three siblings, Jeannine Maloney, Robert LeBlanc Jr. and wife Diane, and Micheline LeBlanc and husband Thomas DeBoni; stepdaughters Susan Harvey and husband John, Jeannine Clark and husband Randy; stepson, Ken Jr. and wife Lori; five step-grandchildren; five step-great-grandchildren; and two step-great-great-grandchildren.

Funeral services for Suzanne will be held at Staples Funeral Home and Cremation Care, 53 Brunswick Ave., Gardner on Saturday, May 27, visiting hours will be from 10 a.m. to noon, followed at 1noon by a memorial service.

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.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Suzanne’s most loved charity, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital via its website: stjude.org, phone number: 800-822-6344, or mailing address: 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

EMILY MARCHESI

WATERVILLE – Emily Marchesi passed away unexpectedly on Monday, May 15, 2023.

Emily had only recently graduated from Kennebec Valley Community College (KVCC), in Fairfield, with her degree in culinary arts and was so excited to begin her new job at a restaurant here in Maine. Her achievements were earned under some of the most difficult circumstances. She was so proud of what she had done and her family was, too. In her short life, Emily showed us not only how to conquer indescribable challenges, but how to do so with true grace, love, and compassion.

Emily’s greatest joy was her son, Jeremiah. She was his angel, and he was hers. Her love for him was unmatched by any other.

She is survived by her son Jeremiah; her parents Peter and Robin; her sister, Katie; her brothers Nick and Vinny; her sister-in-law, Nicole; her grandmother, Gail; her grandfather, Vincent; her niece, Harper; her aunts and uncles.

Her family and close friends will say goodbye to her privately, and a ceremony celebrating Emily’s short but beautiful life will take place in the coming months.

Condolences may be shared at FuneralAlternatives.net.

DANIEL P. MICHAUD

FAIRFIELD CENTER – Daniel P. Michaud, “Woodchuck”, passed away on Monday, May 15, 2023 following a courageous battle with Metastatic Melanoma.

Dan fought this battle as he lived his life with all the strength, determination, and faith, trusting that God had his back.

He worked hard, played hard, and loved hard. Dan’s love for the outdoors led him to become a Sawyer. He owned and operated Mr. Woodchuck’s Saw Mill for over 30 years. Anyone who knew Dan knew how hard he worked and how much he enjoyed knowing that his custom sawn pieces would be in his customer’s homes throughout the state.

His love of his land led him to recently build his second log home using the timber from his property, side by side with the love of his life and partner for over 30 years, Kim Giroux. Dan loved hunting and fishing. He and Kim spent many camping trips to Rangeley and Moosehead Lake, and many beautiful memories were created.

Dan is survived by his life partner, Kim Giroux, of Fairfield; his eldest son, Daniel Michaud Jr. who resides in Ventura, California, along with his wife Shawna; son, Lucien and eldest son Trey who reside in Grand Junction, Colorado; his youngest son, Jason who resides in Coral Springs, Florida, along with his fiancée Noreen D’agosta; a granddaughter, Olivia Beitel who resides in Santa Fe, New Mexico; two siblings, brother, David Michaud, of Parkman, and sister, Dianna Chapman, of Thomaston; and many nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, June 11, at 1 p.m., at the Fairfield VFW, 246 Main St., Fairfield.

In lieu of flowers, plant a tree!

FREDA GRANT

WINSLOW – Freda (Gagnon) Grant, 81, of Winslow, passed away on Wednesday, May 17, 2023, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Augusta. She was born in a log cabin in Portage Lake, on April 27, 1942, the daughter of Ronaldo Gagnon and Bertha (Fortin) Gagnon.

She graduated from Winslow High School in 1959.

Freda worked in several positions over the course of her career, primarily as an insurance representative. Her employers included Boothby and Bartlett, in Waterville, where she worked for over 20 years, Napoleon and Louie Marcou-Attorneys, also in Waterville, the local telephone company, and the Wyandotte-Worsted Textile mill, in Waterville. After she retired in 2006, she worked part time at Thayer Campus of MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Waterville, and volunteered in the gift shop.

Freda was predeceased by her parents Ronaldo and Bertha Gagnon, and her brother Reynold Gagnon.

She is survived by her children John Grant and his wife Ankeney Weitz, of Waterville; her daughter Amy Grant, of Winthrop; her grandsons Casey Grant, of Palmyra, and Miguel Schwiderke, of Asheville, North Carolina; and granddaughter Lily Schwiderke, of Lewiston; her sisters Linda Gagnon, of Winslow, and Ida McDonnell and her husband Michael, of Portsmouth, New Hampshire, her fiancé John Harris, of Newcastle, Delaware.

Her incredible work ethic was something to see. Through it all, she was a fiercely devoted, protective, loving, generous, overly-doting mother. This she did by herself. If there was a Mt. Rushmore for single, working Moms … She was a completely devoted parent, friend, and grandparent. Especially grandparent.

She was a constant support and guiding light to Casey F. Grant. They spent hours together at a time and she took a colossal number of telephone calls from him, more than she would ever dare admit to his parents. Casey’s mother Teena French also held a special place in her heart.

She also doted endlessly on her grandson Miguel Schwiderke, no matter how often he messed up her hair. Given that he towered over her by 16 inches, it was just too tempting to him.

And her only granddaughter Lily was her favorite young lady by a country mile. Whenever Lily came to town, wild horses couldn’t keep her away.

She had a posse of loyal friends proclaiming about her razor-sharp wit. Her sense of humor saw her and her loved ones through even the darkest of times.

Visiting hours will be at Gallant Funeral Home, in Waterville, on Tuesday, May 30, from 2 to 4 p.m., and 6 to 8 p.m. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

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

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Freda’s name to Spina Bifida Association of Greater New England, 219 East Main Street, Suite 100B, Milford, MA 01757.

BETTY SPENCER

BENTON – Betty Spencer, 77, passed away on Thursday, May 18, 2023, following a brief hospital stay. She was born to Louise and Stephen Beauregard on July 12, 1945.

Being raised on a farm, she was always fond of animals and never afraid of hard work. She attended Lawrence High School, in Fairfield, where she was an active student body member. Most who knew Betty remember her as the bus driver. She drove bus for MSAD #49 for over 35 years, only retiring after seeing her eldest grandchildren graduate.

In her free time, Betty loved doing crossword puzzles, watching Jeopardy, and spending time with her loved ones. She loved to travel, whether to the Caribbean on a cruise or just to the coast of Maine with her family. Anyone who knew Betty knew she was an incredibly caring and loving person who lived every asset of her life to the fullest. It was impossible to go anywhere with Betty and have no one recognize her, and she would always remember a fun anecdote about them, too.

Betty was predeceased by her parents, Louise and Stephen Beauregard; and her brother, Stephen Beauregard, Jr.

She is survived by her sister, Marie Philbrook, of Clinton; her brothers Thomas Beauregard, of Foil, Missouri, and Paul Beauregard, of Skowhegan; her three daughters, Bobbi Bard, of Richmond, Amanda Spencer, of Benton, Rachel Sales, of Winslow; her son, Stephen Bard, of Benton; her eight grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

There will be a Celebration of Life for Betty on Sunday, May 28, at Thomas College, West River Road, in Waterville, from 1 to 3 p.m., in the Summit Room, in the Spann Student Commons.

STANLEY D. CAMPBELL

VASSALBORO – Stanley David Campbell, 64, passed away suddenly and peacefully on Thursday, May 18, 2023, from a very rare Primary CNS large B-Cell brain lymphoma. Stan was born in Bangor, on August 20, 1958, the son of David S. and Jean M. (Conrad) Campbell.

During Stan’s childhood, his father served in the U.S. Air Force. He and his family spent time on military bases in England, the Philippines, Texas, Florida and eventually ended up settling again in Maine. Stan graduated from Erskine Academy, in South China, in 1976.

While working at Bonanza, in Waterville, after high school, Stan met the love of his life Mary-Ann (Carney) Campbell. They built a beautiful life together and would have celebrated their 44th wedding anniversary in June. Stan worked for the State of Maine-Maine Revenue Services for 40 years. He proudly ended his career as a deputy director.

Stan was a man who was full of life and always fun to be around. Forever a kid at heart, he loved to tease and pull pranks on family and friends. He was always looking for an adventure. Stan enjoyed making maple syrup and loved to welcome in family, neighbors, and friends to be part of the process. He was a league bowler in Augusta for over 40 years and enjoyed playing in the Augusta softball leagues in the ‘80s and early ‘90s. Stan loved the outdoors, spending time at the family camp on Indian Pond, gardening, golfing, and hunting with his crew and his son, Matt (his favorite hunting partner for the last 25 years). Stan was a wonderful Grandpa to his four grandchildren who enjoyed being in his company, playing games, telling stories, and laughing together.

Stan was predeceased by his mother Jean (Conrad) Campbell.

He is survived by his wife Mary-Ann (Carney); daughter Amanda Crommett, her husband Derek and their two children, Liam and Aly, of Manchester; son Matthew Campbell, his wife Erin (Hill) and their two children, Cohen and Griffin, of Sidney; his father David and his wife Madeline (Colby), of Augusta; his sister April Panosian and her husband Mike, of Whitefield; his brother Jeff and his wife Linda, of South China; his baby sister Sandy Weaver and her husband Darrin, of Windsor; his stepsister Cindy Colby and his stepbrother Danny Colby and his partner Kim St. Amand; his mother and father-in-law Bill and Carlene (Labonte) Carney; his sisters- and brothers- in- law, Debbie (Carney) Harrington and Shawn Harrington, Linda Carney-Smith and Larry Smith, Michael and Dyan Carney, Donald and Kathy Carney; and his many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

The family will be hosting a Celebration of Life in Stan’s honor. Visiting hours will be held from 2 – 4 p.m. Friday, June 2, at the American Legion Post #205, 396 Eastern Ave., in Augusta, and will be followed by a casual ceremony. The celebration begins around 5 p.m., which will include food, beverages (BYOB), and live music.

The family wishes memorial contributions to be made to Make-A-Wish Maine, 66 Mussey Rd., Scarborough, ME 04074. Donations should indicate in memory of Stan Campbell.

ROBERT N. DAVIDSON

FAIRFIELD – Robert N. Davidson, 86, passed away peacefully at Mount Joseph, in Waterville, on October 12, 2022. Robert was born in Sangerville on October 16, 1935, the son of Warren and Janette (Arnold) Davidson.

He attended Abbott High School.

Robert went on to serve his country, serving eight years in the U.S. Army and another 12 years in the U.S. Air Force. He was a corrections officer for many years for the State of Maine. He met the love of his life, Doris, and together they raised their daughter.

Robert enjoyed spending time with his family, he was a member of the Knights of Columbus earning 3rd degree. He was active in his church and loved fishing, woodworking, and genealogy.

Robert was predeceased by his daughter, Debra Ann Chessa.

He is survived by his wife, Doris; his son-in-law, John Chessa; and his grandson, Anothony Chessa.

A Mass of Christian Burial will take place Tuesday, May 30, at 10 a.m., at Notre Dame Catholic Church, 116 SilverSt., Waterville, followed by a committal at Maine Veterans Cemetery, in Augusta, at noon.

Local student named to fall 2022 UAF chancellor’s list

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Jeff Beyea, of Whitefield, has been named to the fall 2022 chancellor’s list at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, in Fairbanks, Alaska.

UAF is a Land, Sea and Space Grant institution and is the leading doctoral degree-granting institution in the state of Alaska. Since it was founded in 1917, UAF has been internationally recognized for research relating to the Arctic and sub-Arctic in areas such as biology, geophysics, engineering, natural resources and global climate change.

China town meeting, ATV trail discussed by select board

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by Mary Grow

The first of the China select board’s May 22 public hearings, a repeat hearing on the June 13 town business meeting ballot (see the May 11 issue of The Town Line, p. 2) drew no interest at all.

The second hearing, on allowing about two miles of Pleasant View Ridge and Bog Brook roads to be used as an ATV trail, elicited half an hour’s discussion among a dozen residents, Four Seasons Club officers and board members.

Club President Thomas Rumpf asked China select board members to approve ATVers’ use of the road sections to create a loop trail between southeastern and northeastern China while the Beaver Trail is being repaired. Currently, only a single trail is open; two-way traffic is less interesting to riders and harder on the trail, Rumpf said.

Residents’ comments were almost evenly divided between supporters and opponents. The main objections were based on safety. The two roads have many hidden driveways, curves and blind spots, and car and truck traffic is heavy and fast, residents said.

They were also concerned about increased noise, and about potential liability if there were an accident. Town Manager Rebecca Hapgood said under Maine law, the town would have no liability.

Supporters cited the value of ATVers to the local economy. Several said some ride the roads anyway, illegally.

Rumpf said if the proposal were approved, the roads would be heavily signed to warn motorists to watch out for ATVs. The ATVs would use the same travel lanes and obey the same speed limits as cars and trucks.

In response to questions, he and Darrell Wentworth, a Four Seasons Club officer and a Maine ATV instructor, said ATV drivers must be at least 16 years old; they are taught to use hand signals to indicate turns; their machines must have headlights and taillights and cannot – legally – have modified extra-noisy exhaust systems.

Rumpf had checked with other towns where ATVs share roads; the main problem they reported he summarized as “rowdies.” There was general agreement that a minority of ATV riders – and of car and truck drivers – will violate laws.

Rumpf intends to do his best to ensure the Kennebec Sheriff’s Office and local game wardens patrol the area more frequently than usual.

During the select board meeting that followed the public hearing, board members discussed what they had heard and agreed unanimously to allow ATVs on the road sections for the 2023 season on a trial basis, subject to cancellation if there are problems.

Rumpf said the season begins June 1; road use will not be allowed until after club members obtain and post signs, later in June. The season ends Columbus Day weekend. Hours during which road use is allowed will be 8 a.m. to sunset, to avoid running in darkness.

Problems that might cause select board members to rescind the approval before the season ends include multiple complaints from residents or law enforcement or both, or an accident.

China Lake main theme at select board meeting

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by Mary Grow

For the May 22 China Select Board meeting, China Lake was a major theme, in three different ways.

Select board members unanimously and appreciatively accepted a proposal from the China Lake Association, represented virtually by board member Bruce Fitzgerald, to have a Colby professor and class do an economic impact study of China Lake.

Fitzgerald said the study would cost the town zero dollars. There would probably be requests for information, some of which might require town office staff time; Town Manager Rebecca Hapgood saw no problem.

The main theme would be the value of lake-based tourism to China. Fitzgerald invited other suggestions for content, and said it might be possible to involve the China Region Lakes Alliance and expand the study to Three Mile and Webber ponds.

Fitzgerald said the same professor did a Belgrade Lakes study. That 12-page document, titled A Case Study of the Economic Impact of Seasonal Visitors to a Lake Watershed Environment, is on line under athensjournals.gr/ tourism/2015-2-2-1-Donihue.pdf. The first author listed is Colby College professor Michael Donihue.

Also speaking virtually, China Lake Association President Stephen Greene said the organization has applied for a grant for work around China Lake that, if approved, would include improvements at the boat landing in South China.

His report sparked a brief discussion of the landing. Greene said the lake association currently favors a carry-in only, unpaved landing; two select board members consider a paved area a longer-lasting option.

Hapgood said if funds for improvements become available, there will be additional discussions, especially with South China Village residents.

The manager presented the third lake issue: she reported that the dock at the head of the lake broke over the weekend. China’s public works crew responded and are working on repairs that Hapgood hoped would be completed in a few days.

In other business May 22:

  • Select board members awarded summer paving work to the low bidder, Maine-ly Paving Services, LLC, of Canaan, at a price of $87.75 per ton of paving mix.
  • They awarded the summer mowing bid to the only bidder, Pierce Works, LLC, of China, for a price of $4,900 for one mowing or $9,800 for two mowings.
  • Two items were postponed: proposed amendments to the Planning Board Ordinance, recommended by the planning board and scheduled tentatively for presentation to voters in November; and local penalty assessment guidelines.

Absentee ballots for China’s June 13 annual town business meeting are now available, as is the new town report.

Overall school budget looks good

At the May 22 China select board meeting, Regional School Unit (RSU) #18 Superintendent Carl Gartley said the overall regional budget is up 2.93 percent, and China’s share is up 2.08 percent, or about $106,000.

“In today’s economy, I thought that was pretty darn good,” Gartley said.

He reported that RSU students are doing well educationally, and the district is financially secure, with reserve funds built up in the last few years.

China Middle School has a new 300-foot well, after months of bottled water use since PFAS was found in the old well. If the new well does not solve the problem, an expensive treatment system will be installed.

China Primary School’s well water tested fine, Gartley said.

Plans for this summer’s work in China include re-siding China Elementary School (a big building, Gartley commented) and adding four pickleball courts for public use. The new courts will be between the softball outfield and the parking lot; they will not be lighted.

The next regular China select board meeting will be Monday evening, June 5.

VASSALBORO: Only two select board members at meeting; make minor comments on warrant draft

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by Mary Grow

The two Vassalboro select board members present at the May 11 board meeting offered a few minor comments on Town Manager Aaron Miller’s draft town meeting warrant. The manager planned to have a final copy ready for their signatures after the meeting.

The first part of the town meeting is an open meeting that begins at 6:30 p.m., Monday, June 5, at Vassalboro Community School. Voters present will elect a moderator; elect five budget committee members; act on municipal and school expenditure requests for the 2023-24 fiscal year that begins July 1; and act on policy and procedural questions.

There are a total of 38 articles to be decided June 5. On Tuesday, June 13, Articles 39 through 41 will be on a written ballot. They ask voters to approve or reject the school budget adopted June 5; approve or reject amendments to the Site Review Ordinance (in the form of a new section governing commercial solar energy systems); and elect town officials (see box with this story).

The other document that select board members reviewed May 11 was titled “Vassalboro Recreation Committee Bylaws.” Recreation Director Karen Hatch explained that because the board and voters have created her position, the committee’s role has changed.

After half an hour’s discussion, select board chairman Barbara Redmond proposed committee members be invited to a workshop session with the select board. Miller said he would schedule the workshop.

In other business, Vassalboro Historical Society spokesman John Melrose said the heat pumps to be installed at the former East Vassalboro schoolhouse (now the society’s headquarters and museum) will cost $32,019.06, because the plan has been amended to make the boiler that presently heats the building unnecessary.

The Efficiency Maine program will provide $14,000, Melrose said, leaving $18,019.06 as the town’s share. Select board members had approved using $15,000 in ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act) funds for the project. They increased the appropriation to $18,019.06 and authorized Miller to sign the Efficiency Maine contract.

Miller asked for permission to look into seeking bids for legal work for the town. Vassalboro has had the same attorney since 2018, he said. Select board members approved.

The manager said the tax-acquired property at 83 South Stanley Hill Road has been advertised for sale; there is considerable interest. The town website, www.Vassalboro.net, has instructions for submitting bids; they are due at the town office by 4 p.m., Wednesday, June 7, and the minimum bid is $10,000.

Board members briefly discussed application and other fees the town charges for permits and licenses. They adopted the planning board’s recommendation that site review application fees for commercial projects be increased to $100 for a minor project and $400 for a major; they might consider other fees at future meetings.

No candidates on June 13 ballot

Vassalboro voters have no candidate on the June 13 ballot to fill the select board seat being vacated by Barbara Redmond.

Town Manager Aaron Miller said May 11 that David McCarthy, Jr., the only nominee, has withdrawn his candidacy.

Voters will see a blank line on which to write in the candidate of their choice. Write-in rules will be publicized on the town website, Facebook and elsewhere.

The person with the most correct written-in votes will become a select board member for a three-year term, assuming he or she accepts the position.

Vassalboro’s other June 13 elections are for two seats on the school board. Incumbents Erin “Libby” Loiko and Zachary Smith are unopposed for re-election.

Polls will be open at the town office from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., on Tuesday, June 13. Absentee ballots were scheduled to be available at the town office Monday, May 15.

The next regular Vassalboro select board meeting will be Thursday evening, May 25.