CRITTER CHATTER: Words of wisdom

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An owlet at the Duck Pond Rehab Center. (photo from the Duck Pond Wildlife Archives.)

by Jayne Winters

Even though most of us still have some patches of snow in our yards, it won’t be long before it melts and we have more constant warmer temperatures of spring. For wildlife rehabbers, spring brings an increase in phone calls from well-intentioned folks who are worried about young animals that appear to have been abandoned by their mothers. I didn’t even need to ask Don Cote, at the Duck Pond Wildlife Center, what our column this month would be about. It may seem like “old news” to repeat this reminder every year, but sharing an article written by Carleen Cote about whether to rescue or not is advice that still holds true today:

“With the return of warmer, sunny days, our feathered friends are returning from their southern hiatus and the native wildlife are beginning to move around. This is an appropriate time for a reminder about whether or not young wildlife that appear to need rescuing really do need human intervention.
White-tail fawns probably are being rescued when they should have been left where they were found. A very young fawn will not move until given a signal from its mother. The doe does not remain with her fawn at all times; she leaves to feed herself and may not return to the fawn for several hours. A young fawn also has no odor, so if it is found by a dog, coyote or other potential predator, it’s only by accident, not from a scent.

If, when out walking in the fields and woods, you should spot a fawn, do not immediately assume that it needs to be rescued. Mark the spot where the fawn was spotted and leave. Return after a few hours or the next day. If the fawn is in the exact same spot, then it is probably safe to assume that something has happened to the doe. Contact a game warden or wildlife rehabber and follow the advice given.

If you find a young bird on the ground and no nest can be found, make a substitute nest from a berry box or basket; be sure there are holes for drainage and hang it in a tree close to the spot where the bird was found. The adults will respond to the feeding calls of their youngsters.

If cats are prowling or stalking any birds, especially when there may be young birds in a nest that cannot survive without being fed, the cat should be confined rather than removing the birds. Fledglings – young birds that are feathered and out of the nest ­ – need time to master the art of flying. Though they may spend time on the ground, this is not necessarily an indication they need human intervention. Observe whether there are adult birds flying around as they could be the parents, either bringing food to the young or coaxing them to take their first flight.

There are times when rescue is necessary such as when an adult female has died, but her young survive, or when young animals have been observed for some time, but no adult arrives to care for them and lead them to safety. If you do rescue wildlife, as cute as they may seem, bring them to someone who has the necessary permits and knowledge to give them a greater chance of survival. If you are in doubt about the need to rescue any bird or animal, or have any questions about the little critters we all enjoy and for which we are concerned, please call. We’re happy to answer any questions or advise you as to where you might get an answer.”

Although Don, Jane, and Debbie are gearing up for the hectic weeks ahead, they will still transfer some rescues 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.

SCORES & OUTDOORS: Brook trout the best tasting fish

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brook trout

Roland D. Halleeby Roland D. Hallee

The weather has warmed, the snow is melting and the streams are bustling with activity as the spring runoff is in full swing.

On a recent trip to Vermont, my wife and I saw many streams along the route swelling their banks and looking primed for brook trout fishing.

I have been on many a brook trout fishing trip, mostly to Nesowadnehunk Lake in northern Maine where the lake is exclusively brook trout – fly fishing only.

The meat of the brook trout, in my humble opinion, is the best tasting and sweetest of all the fish species, including salmon, probably because they are of the same family of Salmonidae. We have consumed many a brook trout by simply cooking them straight over a wood fired, outside fireplace, with no seasoning whatsoever.

The Eastern Brook Trout, Salvelinus fontinalis, varies in size depending on water temperature, productivity and food sources. Brook trout sizes will range from 7-1/2 to 17-1/2 inches in different lakes and streams. The stream brook trout is slower growing and usually much smaller than their lake relatives.

The brook trout is also known in other parts of its range as speckled trout, squaretail, mud trout and brook charr.

The brook trout has a dark green to brown color, with a distinctive marbled pattern of lighter shades across the flanks and back, and extending at least to the dorsal fin, and often to the tail. A distinctive sprinkling of red dots, surrounded by blue halos, occurs along the flanks. The belly and lower fins are reddish in color, the latter with white leading edges. Often the underparts, especially in the males, becomes very red or orange when the fish are spawning.

The brook trout’s range is varied but are increasingly becoming confined to higher elevations. Their southern range has been drastically reduced, with fish being restricted to higher-elevation, remote streams due to habitat loss and introductions of brown and rainbow trout.

They prefer clear water of high purity and a narrow pH range caused by environmental effects such as acid rain. Warm summer temperatures and low water flow rates are stressful on the brook trout populations, especially larger fish.

Brook trout have a diverse diet that includes larval, pupal, and adult forms of aquatic insects, and adult forms of terrestrial insects. The brook trout we catch at “The Hunk,” as the lake is known locally, had large amounts of crayfish in their stomachs.

Until the introduction of brown and rainbow trout, the brook trout attracted the most attention among anglers, especially fly-fishermen, from colonial times through the first 100 years of U.S. history. Following the decline in brook trout populations in the mid-19th century, anglers flocked to the Adirondacks in upstate New York and the Rangeley Lakes region in Maine to pursue the brook trout.

The world record brook trout was caught by Dr. W. J. Cook on the Ni­pi­gon River, in Ontario, in July 1915, at 31 inches. The weight couldn’t be confirmed because the badly decomposed fish weighed only 14.5 pounds after having been in the bush without refrigeration for 21 days.

Brook trout in North America became extirpated from many waterways due to land development, forest clear-cutting, and industrialization. Streams and creeks became polluted, dammed, or silted. The brown trout, not native to North America, has replaced the brook trout in many of its native waters.

Let’s just hope the many clean, pure waterways we still have in Maine remain that way to sustain the fate of the brook trout in a positive way. In some lakes where brook trout is supreme, we anglers always fear the possibility of other species being introduced illegally. We must remain vigilant.

Roland’s trivia question of the week:

How many Super Bowls have the Denver Broncos won?

Answer
Three.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, April 27, 2023

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RUTH M. GERVAIS

UNITY – Ruth M. Gervais, 96, passed away on Wednesday, April 5, 2023. She was born April 13, 1926, in Presque Isle, to Fay and Fern (Good) Parks.

She attended schools in Presque Isle, Sidney, and Waterville High School. She was married to Philip L. Gervais in 1947, and they had three children.

In the ’40s she was employed in the office of the Edwards Mfg. Co., in Augusta. After marriage, she took care of the Gervais Refrigeration Co. for 50 years, at home, while raising her children. The family lived near Chicago in the ’50s and ’60s where she worked for the Elgin Watch Co. for a year. In the ’70s she was town clerk of Warner, New Hampshire.

She was always a member of a church and the Eastern Star. She enjoyed writing, reading and nature. While living in New Hampshire, she went for long walks in the woods almost daily.

Ruth is survived by her daughter, Gloria Gervais, and son, James Gervais, both of Unity.

She was predeceased by her daughter, Betty Gervais; parents Fay and Fern Parks; brother, Roland Parks; and sister, Iris Clark.

A funeral will be announced at a later date. Burial will be at the Springer Cemetery, in Sidney.

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.

WILLIAM F. DAVENPORT

CHELSEA – William Forrest Davenport, 73, passed away on Wednesday, April 5, 2023. Bill was born on July 6, 1949.

He spent his childhood years in Whitefield before he set out into the world as a young man serving in the U.S. Navy. His years as a sailor led him to points around the world and countries far away, which most likely played a hand in his uncanny ability to tell jokes and drop one liners with the best of them.

Once his sailing days were over, Bill went on to spend a few years in Florida and California before his love of Maine and the inability to get Allens and Yellow Cap brought him back home. He settled down in Chelsea and called it home for the rest of his life where he was surrounded by ping pong playing buddies, and neighborhood kids eager to use every power tool in the garage.

Bill knew what it took to be a classic Mainer, the type not confined by an office or a schedule. The type not afraid to try any style of work, to do it well, then go do something else the next day. Over the years, he spent time being a carpenter, digging worms, climbing trees with chainsaws, and lastly, helping the “Maine Cabin Masters”. Bill was with the crew filming the pilot episode up in the Allagash back in 2015 and right along side them up to the end, on set during filming just a few weeks ago. You would think that being on dozens of episodes of a popular TV show would be his greatest accomplishment, not even close! Reconnecting and spending time with his daughter, Chana, son-in-law, Stephen and becoming a grandfather to Jordan Wallace Keating, was by far his proudest and most cherished accomplishment.

Like a lot of classic, legendary Maine men, Bill was the type of guy who some may say looked a bit rough on the exterior, but had a heart of gold. He was selfless, always willing and insisting to give you what he could, and not afraid to tell you like it is. Over the years, Bill had many great friends with a few people that were really special and meant a lot to him. He helped raise Joe Andrews and Rebecca Travis, and was very proud of being a part of their lives.

And lastly, he was an accomplished pilot. As he told it…” his dad would cut wood and he would pile it”.

Bill is survived by his daughter, Chana Danielle Keating (Garmier), husband Stephen Michael Keating, and his grandson, Jordan Wallace Keating, all of Florida; sister, Flora Peyton and husband Marc Moonlight, of Colorado; sister, Florence Harrelson, of Maine; and brother, Howard Davenport, of Colorado.

He was predeceased by his father, William F. Davenport Sr., and his mother, Barbara R. Davenport (Trainor).

A celebration of life will take place on Friday, May 12, 2023, at the Woodshed, in Manchester, 911 Western Ave., from 4 – 7 p.m.

Arrangements are entrusted with Staples Funeral Home, 53 Brunswick Ave., Gardiner, where condolences, memories and photos may be shared with the family at http://www.staplesfuneralhome.com.

DIANNE P. WINKLEY

WINDSOR – Dianne Patricia Winkley, 80, passed away on Thursday, April 6, 2023. She was born on October 27, 1942, the daughter of Harold and Margaret (Murphy) Grosser.

Dianne grew up in Liberty and attended local schools. She met Charles Winkley and the two were married on June 24, 1961, and made their home in Windsor on the family farm, raising their four sons.

Dianne was a huge fan of the Boston Red Sox and enjoyed watching baseball games. She was an excellent cook and was famous for her yeast rolls. A talented craftswoman, Dianne crocheted countless treasures for her family and friends. For over 30 years, she held a booth at the Windsor fair, selling her crocheted dolls, stuffed animals, mittens, blankets, and baby clothing.

She was predeceased by her infant son, James Winkley; her parents; her siblings, Betty, Billy, and Sandra; her husband, Charles Winkley; and granddaughter Jennifer.

She is survived by her sons, Brian Winkley and his wife Diana, Mark Winkley and his wife Debbie, Timothy Winkley and his wife Sherry and Wayne Winkley; grandchildren, BJ, Thomas, Christopher, Amanda, Tabitha, Zack, Nicole, Craig and Jeremy; several great-grandchildren; nieces, and nephews; along with daughters she never had Theresa and Tammy and their children.

A funeral service was held on Saturday, April 22, 2023, at the funeral home.

Condolences, stories, or photos may be shared by visiting http://www.plummerfh.com.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Dianne’s name may be made to Special Olympics Maine, Attn: Phil, 525 Main St. Unit D, South Portland, ME 04106 or accepted at Capital Area Federal Credit Union.

NANCY R. FINLEY

VASSALBORO – Nancy R. Finley, 87, passed away Monday, April 10, 2023, at her residence, in Vassalboro. She was born in Waterville on September 29, 1935, the daughter of Donald and Evelyn Steeves Osborne.

She was one of six children – three boys and three girls. She was educated in the school systems of Guilford, graduating in 1954.

In 1957 she married Richard Finley from Monson. Nancy moved to Virginia and later West Virginia after graduation accompanying her husband, Dick, as he went to work for the U.S. Forest Service.

She returned from West Virginia in 1967, moving into a residence in Monson where she lived with husband, Dick, until 1970. Then they moved to Winslow and lived there until 1973, when they bought a house in East Vassalboro and lived there the rest of her life.

She was the secretary at Carl B. Lord School, in North Vassalboro, in the ’70s and was a hospice volunteer.

Nancy and Dick were avid snowmobilers in their later years, racking up some 5000-6000 miles or so each year.

Nancy was predeceased by her husband, Richard W. Finley.

She is survived by her son, Michael, of North Vassalboro; and one brother, Rick Osborne and family, in Pennsylvania.

A private graveside service will be held at a later date. Memories and condolences may be shared at directcremationofmaine.com.

ROSE T. MANZO

WINSLOW – Rose Theresa Manzo, 95, passed away on Wednesday, April 12, 2023. She was born in Boston, Massaschusetts, on September 7, 1927, to Valentino Valeriani and Mary (Woodward) Valeriani.

She was always the light of the room and a laugh to be heard. If she didn’t know you, she’d be sure to make friends with you. She was always up for anything, including dancing, drinking wine, and all the pranks pulled on her.

She was known for her generous heart and love of life.

She was predeceased by her husband of 50 years, Henry Manzo; son, James Manzo; sisters Tina Jamerson and Virginia Esposito and brothers Joe, Harry, Don, and Bob Valeriani.

She is survived by her children, daughter Linda Wysocki, son John (Liz) Manzo, and daughter Gena (Dave) Poulin; nine grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren; as well as numerous relatives and friends.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at Wednesday, April 26, at St. John Catholic Church, 26 Monument St., Winslow. Her burial was private.

Arrangements are under the direction and care of Gallant Funeral Home, 10 Elm St., 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 the Mid-Maine Homeless Shelter and Services, 19 Colby St., Waterville, ME 04901, the Muskie Center, 38 Gold St., Waterville, ME 04901, or Maine Children’s Home, 93 Silver St., Waterville, ME 04901.

MARCIA H. MOODY

SIDNEY – Marcia Hinckley Moody, 93, of Sidney, peacefully passed away on Wednesday, April 12, 2023, at her home. Marcia was born October 23, 1929, in Gardiner, to Albert and Cecile Hinckley.

Marcia came from a large family that included 14 brothers and sisters, all of whom predeceased her.

Marcia chose being a mother and homemaker as her profession and excelled at this job up until the time of her passing; always caring for her family in any way she could. Marcia enjoyed many activities including family BBQs and get-together, Bingo, going to the beach, boating and later in her life scratch tickets which were always a must-have gift given to her from family on all holidays.

Marcia was predeceased by her son Brian Moody.

Surviving children include Lorraine Skidgel and husband Sheldon, of Randolph, Wayne Moody and his wife Tina, of Pennsylvania, Elaine Smith, of West Gardiner; Sharon Smith and husband Brent, of Sidney, Sherry Libby and husband Dwayne, of Whitefield, Tammy Gagnon and husband Jeffrey, of Sidney, Pamela Decker and husband James, of Sidney, and Richard Moody, of Gorham; many grandchildren; nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held at Oak Grove Cemetery, in Gardiner, on Saturday, May 6, at 11 a.m. A celebration of life will immediately follow at her granddaughter, Sabrina’s, home at 2351 West River Rd., in Sidney. All are welcome.

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 can be made in her honor to Mainegeneral Hospice at https://give.mainegeneral.org/hospice or by mail to MaineGeneral Health Office of Philanthropy, P.O. Box 828, Waterville, ME 04903-0828

WENDELL C. ROCKWELL

BENTON – Wendell “Bucky” Charles Rockwell, 90, passed away peacefully at Maine­General Medical Center, on Thursday, April 13, 2023. Bucky was born July 13, 1932, to Charles and Edna (Stoddard) Rockwell, of Hodgdon.

Bucky worked on his family farm and attended Hodgdon High School. He went on to a successful career as a truck driver, retiring from Coles Express in 1996. He was recognized for driving two million miles in the state of Maine with no accidents. Bucky was a collector of baseball caps and, at one time, had over 450 hanging in his garage. In his retirement, he enjoyed tinkering in his garage and puttering around his home keeping things just so.

Bucky leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness and hard work and will always be remembered by all who knew and loved him.

He was predeceased by his parents; six siblings; son, Jerry Rockwell; and grandson, Ryan Rockwell.

Bucky is survived by his wife of 41 years, Barbara Rockwell; sons Larry Rockwell (wife Kathy), Charles Rockwell (wife Tracy), Jay Moore; daughters Debra Russell (husband Butch), Jennie Reid (husband Roland), and Jill Davis (husband David); 11 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren.

A graveside service at the family cemetery in Sherman, followed by a celebration of life, will be held this summer. Date and time will be determined at a later date.

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

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Cole’s Transportation Museum, 405 Perry Rd., Bangor, ME 04410; or a nonprofit of your choice.

CATHERINE D. VIGUE

WINDSOR – Catherine Dawn Vigue, 90, passed away Friday, April 14, 2023, at Augusta Center for Health and Rehabilitation. She was born March 21, 1933, a daughter of Leroy and Bessie (Hassan) Richards Sr.

Cathy grew up in Windsor and was a graduate of Erskine Academy, in South China.

Following high school, she married Joseph Vigue, and the two remarried again in 2009. Cathy held various jobs throughout her life including waitressing and cleaning, but her primary work was being a mother.

Cathy was a doll collector, enjoyed crafts and sewing, and was an avid gardener. She canned the fruits of her labor and was known for her delicious jam and pickles.

Some of her favorite past times include day trips to Belfast, eating at her favorite restaurant, Anglers, and browsing through the flea market with Joe. Joe also made sure the bird feeder was full so she could bird watch; and each spring he made sure she had pansies in her flower beds.

She was predeceased by her infant son, Joseph Vigue Jr.; her husband, Joseph Vigue; and her siblings, Leroy Richards Jr., Malcolm Hassan, and Marilyn Glidden.

She is survived by her children, Dawn Vigue, Sandra Jones, Scott Vigue, Todd Vigue, and Lisa Thrace; seven grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.

A graveside service was held on April 25, 2023, at Mount Hope Cemetery, Winthrop St., Augusta.

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

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Cathy’s name may be made to, Alzheimers Association, 383 US-Route One, #2C, Scarborough, ME 04074.

NORA A. GIDNEY

WATERVILLE – Nora Ann Gidney, passed away on Saturday, April 15, 2023.

Nora was the wife of Raymond Gidney who predeceased her in 1969. Being on her own at the age of 34 with three young children, Nora thrived at raising Bonnie, Scott, and Benny. The challenge of being a single mom in the ’70s only made her stronger as she pursued her driver’s license and employment in the Vassalboro school system. Nora was later employed as a teachers’ aid in Waterville; teachers’ aid and education technician, in Winslow, then culminating as an assistant to longtime friend Betty Turner working for the American Institute.

She was a kind, caring and giving person who always put the needs of her family before her own. Nora was a strong woman who faced every challenge in her life with courage and dignity.

Growing up, she was always there for her children, whether they needed help with their homework or just a shoulder to cry on. She was a woman of strong beliefs, and she instilled the importance of family, hard work and doing what is right. She was a true role model.

Nora was predeceased by her parents Allan and Nora MacDonald; brother, George, sisters Jean and Frances; and special son-in-law, Dave Huard.

Nora is survived by stepsons Joe Gidney, Ray Gidney and his wife Judy; daughter, Bonnie Huard, sons Scott Gidney and his wife Cindy, Ben Gidney and his wife Denise; and many grandchildren; great-grandchildren; nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be held on Thursday April 27, at 11 a.m., at Veilleux Funeral Home, 8 Elm St., Waterville.

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

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Veilleux and Redington Funeral Home 8 Elm St., Waterville.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Northern Light Continuing Care Lakewood, 220 Kennedy Memorial Dr.,, Waterville, ME 04901, Attn: Activity Department.

BETHANY E. VIGUE

WATERVILLE – Bethany Elaine Vigue, 81, of Waterville, passed away on Saturday, April 15, 2023. She was born on September 29, 1941, in Provi­dence, Rhode Island, to George and Marjorie Broadbent.

Her family moved to Maine when she was young as her father pastored as a Methodist minister in several small Maine towns including Pembroke, Patten, and Milo. Bethany graduated from Milo High School in 1959. She was a proud Milo graduate and attended reunions for many years.

In 1969, Bethany married her husband Gerald, and they later began a ceramics business and in later years helped run a dance hall in Fairfield. She also was an adult education teacher for the Waterville school district for many years teaching ceramics classes. Bethany loved the arts and crafts and collected dolls and doll houses. She was immensely proud of her doll collection right up to the end of her life.

Bethany also volunteered in local nursing homes and loved giving to others. She was known for her charitable work in the greater Waterville area and touched many lives. Bethany was also very proud of her many lifelong friendships and was loved by many, for her kindness and generosity.

She was an active member of the Pleasant Street Methodist Church in Waterville for many years.

She was predeceased by her husband, Gerald in 2014.

Bethany is survived by her two sons, Scott Folsom, from Port Charlotte, Florida, and William (Elizabeth), of Palmyra; grandson, Liam; her brother, David Broadbent (Paulette), of Florida and Prospect Harbor; and nieces and nephews.

A funeral service was held on Friday, April 21, 2023, at Pleasant Street United Methodist Church, 61 Pleasant St., in Waterville. Burial will be held later in the spring.

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, donations may be made to the Pleasant Street United Methodist Church.

MICHAEL J. DUMONT

WINSLOW – Michael Joseph Dumont, 70, passed peacefully on Monday, April 17, 2023, following a courageous 16-year battle with Alzheimer’s Disease. Michael was born on December 30, 1952, in Waterville, to the late Reginald and Yvette (Mailloux) Dumont.

He graduated from Waterville High School in 1971.

Michael was very proud of the home he built in Freedom and his love of the land where he spent so much time. He had a long career as an electrician with IBEW Local #1253, for 32 years, which allowed him to travel with his family. Michael was happily married to “his Mary” for 36 years. Very much a family man, he was much loved and cared for by his girls.

Always surrounded by friends and family, Michael enjoyed being outdoors and spending time on the lake ice fishing and boating. He could be found on the dance floor wearing his cowboy boots or jamming to the music playing the spoons around the campfire.

He was proud of his French heritage and enjoyed conversing in the language every opportunity he had. Michael always had a helping hand for friends and family with an infectious laugh. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends and all who knew him.

Michael is survived by his wife, Mary (White) Dumont; daughters Riva Dumont and Michelle and husband Matthew Leavitt; and his grandchildren Kashton and Nola; his siblings Brenda Hjort (Brian), Cathy Nason (Jay), Regina Nadeau and Jeffrey Dumont; sister-in-law, Doris Grant; and brother-in-law, Frank White; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, Michael was predeceased by his in-laws William and Frances (Eaton) White; sister-in-law, Bette Morse and husband Leslie (Skipper), brother-in-law, Larry Grant; and many aunts and uncles.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, May 6, 2023, at 10:30 a.m., at Saint Francis Catholic Cemetery, 78 Grove St., Waterville. There will be a celebration held after at the Cavern at the Tavern, on Silver Street, Waterville, until 1:30 p.m.

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

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association, Maine Chapter, in Michael’s memory.

PAUL R. GETCHELL

FAIRFIELD – Paul R. Getchell, 86, passed away Wednesday, April 19, 2023, at his home, in Fairfield. He was born in Fairfield on Sept. 13, 1936, to Paul and Greta Getchell.

Paul was the third of five children. He attended the First Baptist Church, in Fairfield, where he sang in the choir. In high school, he played cornet in the band and was on the basketball team for the Lawrence Bulldogs. After high school, he began as an apprentice at the Maine Central Railroad and worked there as an electrician for 41 years.

He purchased his first apartment building in Fairfield where he and his wife raised their family during the early years, then moved to Western Avenue to renovate a turn-of-the-century Victorian. Paul also owned and maintained five apartment buildings in Waterville over many years. His favorite holiday was Christmas when he was remembered for his generosity.

A fiercely competitive spirit, he loved golf and was a member of the Waterville Country Club. Later in life, Paul traveled, making several cross-country road trips. He owned many classic American cars during his lifetime, from Fords to Chevrolets to Buicks, and boasted about the Buick that had over 500,000 miles on it when he traded it in.

Most of all, he had an incredible sense of humor and will be missed by everyone who was lucky enough to know him, especially his children, who could never win a game of checkers or cribbage against him.

He was predeceased by his brother, John Getchell and sister, Joan Waldron.

Paul and Edie Stevens had four children, Carrie LeBlanc (Robert LeBlanc), Amy Safford (Jonathan Safford), Todd Getchell (Sharon Getchell), Nathaniel Getchell (Holly O’Reilly); and seven grandchildren, Sophie, Nathaniel, Isaac, Claire, William, Thomas, and Olivia; and four great-grandchildren, Colette, Lucienne, Miles, and Oliver; his sisters, Sandra Harrell and Susan Bloom.

Visiting hours will be held at Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 107 Main Street, Fairfield, on Thursday, April 27, 4 to 7 p.m.

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, please donate in Paul’s memory to, Spectrum Generations, Community Engagement Office, One Weston Court, Suite 109, Augusta, ME 04330. Donate Online: Spectrum Generations | Help our most vulnerable neighbors by donating now! Or Owl’s Head Transportation Museum Maine: Donate Online: Owls Head Transportation Museum.

JULIAN T. SETTLEMIRE

CHINA – Julian Tenney (Brooks) Settlemire (Juli B. Settlemire), 53, of China, passed on Saturday, March 4, 2023, following a two-year journey with cancer. Born in Presque Isle on July 22, 1969, the favorite youngest daughter to Edwin Tenney Brooks and the late Sharon Ann (Lombard) Brooks, and grew up in Gorham.

Juli graduated from the University of Maine of Orono with a B.A. in Performing Arts with a focus on directing, and English.

At 22, she was set up on a blind date and experienced love at first sight, with Todd Settlemire. In November 1992 she convinced him to marry her and it was the absolute best decision ever.

She began her early career in banking then transitioned into the chiropractic field working closely with the Maine Chiropractic Assistants Association while keeping Dr. Leonard G. Saulter on his toes as his office manager for 10-plus years. She then went to the MaineCare offices for a few years before returning to the chiropractic office with a position as the office manager for Dr. Daniel Poole, at Pathways, in Oakland. She continued to provide health insurance consultation to chiropractic offices up until 2021.

By luck or by chance she was able to garner a position in April 2009 with Marshall Communications, where she began as an office manager then business manager. From Nancy and Charlene she learned about strong, compassionate leadership.

Juli’s free time was largely spent at the theater, where in 2009 she wormed her way into a board position with ACAT, in Waterville. She then worked on the Waterville Opera House board and was active during the transition with Waterville Creates! where she focused on advocating for an additional, creative space to develop directors, writers, actors and technicians. During the design phase of the new arts building, she championed additional restrooms for female-identifying patrons as part of inclusive design.

Juli is survived by her husband, Todd; father, Ed; sister, Stephanie Brooks and her fiance, Guy Young; her father-in-law, C. Thomas Settlemire, his wife Sharon; brother-in-law, Scott Settlemire and wife Candy, daughter, Emily with her husband Kalvin, son, Thomas; sister-in-law, Julie Upham along with husband Scott Upham, sons Connor and Ethan.

If you are so inclined, please consider a donation to the following community organizations: ACAT, Waterville Opera House, Kennebec Valley Humane Society, Waterville Public Library, Sparrow Nest Theater, and Recycled Shakespeare.

RUSSELL IBBITSON

VASSALBORO – Russell Ibbitson, 67, passed away peacefully on November 8, 2022, at his home.

Russell attended schools in Hanson, Massachusetts, and was a graduate of Winslow High School.

Russell built his life on the family property in Vassalboro in the early ‘80s, often a team of one. He was always found helping his dad, Howard, working the land, maintaining the road, and whatever else Howard may have needed done. He turned his attention to his mom Shirley after Howard passed. Russell ate dinner with her every night so that she would not have to eat alone. He took her grocery shopping, to appointments, and sometimes just for a ride around the lake! Shirley wanted to meet Bob Marley and Russ made sure that it happened, he brought her on a trip to his restaurant which led to countless stories about how she met the famous man, and he sat right down with them. Those two, Russ and his mom were quite a duo.

Russell was a “Jack of all trades”. He held many jobs throughout his life including warehouse worker, truck driver, Vassalboro Public Works, and most recently KVCAP volunteer driver. Russell also owned his own dump truck and hauling business.

Russell was predeceased by his parents, Howard and Shirley Ibbitson, sister-in-law, Belinda Ibbitson, and his sister Cindy Douglass.

He leaves behind daughter Shari Bryant and husband John, of Canaan; grandsons Justin and Devon; three brothers, Mickey and wife Tina, of Waterville, Tommy and partner Crystal, of Lebanon, Paul and wife Lisa, of Vassalboro; nieces Crystal Drake (and Ed), Misty Barrios (and Fernando), Jenna Poulin (and Adam), Brittney (and Jarod) Gartley; great-niece Casey Starratt (and Roy); great-nephews, Matthew Starratt (and Cathy), Kai Barrios and Nick Oliveras; the “littles”, apples of his eyes Milayna and Letty Starratt, Paislee and Abel Poulin.

There will be a small graveside memorial on Saturday, June 10, 2023, 11 a.m., at the North Vassalboro Center Cemetery, with a gathering at the home of Crystal Drake, 821 Main Street, Vassalboro, immediately following.

Vassalboro select board, town manager work on warrant for annual town meeting

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by Mary Grow

At their April 13 meeting, Vassalboro selectboard members and Town Manager Aaron Miller worked on the warrant for the June 5 and June 13 annual town meeting.

Select board members concurred with the budget committee’s recommendation on one of the three appropriations articles on which the two boards disagreed after the April 11 budget committee meeting (see the April 20 issue of The Town Line, p. 3).

The proposed expenditures on which the boards disagreed were for road paving, public safety and a donation to the China Region Lakes Alliance. In each case, the budget committee majority recommended a smaller appropriation.

Select board members agreed on reducing Road Foreman Eugene Field’s paving request from $541,500 to $453,300, the budget committee’s recommended amount.

Field proposed paving seven short gravel roads in 2023-24. His reasons were that winter maintenance is easier on paved roads, and eliminating spring and summer repairs saves wear on Vassalboro’s elderly grader.

Budget committee members recommended voters decrease the requested appropriation by $88,200, eliminating the four gravel roads closest to the public works building (and therefore easiest for town equipment to access).

Select board members Chris French and Frederick “Rick” Denico, Jr., were doubtful about a reduction. French feared if hottop and related prices rise, Field might not be able to repave planned roads, never mind extend paving. Denico had talked with Field, repeated the road foreman’s reasons and added that he trusted Field to postpone gravel roads if he thinks next year is the wrong time.

Nonetheless, select board members unanimously agreed to advise voters to support the budget committee’s lower figure.

The issue with the public safety budget was Police Chief Mark Brown’s request to increase his hours from 15 to 20 a week. The select board’s proposed amount for his salary was $31,627, including five more hours a week, a 6.5 percent cost of living increase and a 2 percent step increase (as prescribed in the town’s salary schedule).

The budget committee majority’s recommendation was $22,371, intended to leave the weekly hours at 15.

The main reason Brown wanted an increase, select board chairman Barbara Redmond said, was because he works more than 15 hours a week. She cited one monthly report showing he worked 69 hours in four weeks.

During the boards’ discussions, people suggested two reasons for the overtime: Brown is doing more varied activities, assisting the codes officer and the public works crew and using his local knowledge for community service tasks; and once he starts helping at an incident, he can’t walk away just because he’s reached his time limit.

Select board members voted 2-1, with Redmond dissenting, to recommend voters approve the original select board figure that includes 20 hours a week. Brown’s salary is part of a total public safety budget, including the animal control officer, that selectmen recommend at $102, 128.

For the China Region Lakes Alliance, the organization requested $13,500, a $2,000 increase over the current year; the select board supported the request; and the budget committee majority recommended $7,500.

French pointed out that at the June 2022 town meeting, voters rejected the $9,000 recommended by the budget committee and the select board and approved $11,500. The select board unanimously recommended $13,500 for the CRLA in 2023-24.

Miller’s draft town meeting warrant is based on the 2022 warrant. He talked about articles he will delete, like the one funding property clean-up of the former church lot in North Vassalboro, and those he advises adding, like authorizing the town to accept tax pre-payments.

The manager plans to have a warrant ready for review at the April 27 select board meeting. The town meeting will be in two parts, the open town meeting Monday evening, June 5, and secret ballot voting Tuesday, June 13.

The final item discussed at the April 13 meeting was whether the town should try to buy land, formerly owned by the late Paul Morneau, abutting the transfer station property. Board members made no decision.

The main purpose would be to expand the transfer station. Discussion of access and the suitability of the 42-acre property included information from Melissa Olson, who lives near and is familiar with the Morneau land.

Denico repeated arguments in favor of relocating the transfer station to a sturdier road with three-phase power available. Planning board and budget committee member Douglas Phillips suggested the town could buy the Morneau lot for recreation, like walking trails.

In other business April 13, board members unanimously awarded waste hauling bids to the low bidders, Casella Waste Systems for bulky waste and cardboard and Bolster’s Rubbish Removal for MSW (municipal solid waste, the stuff that goes into the hopper).

They accepted two requests Phillips presented from the planning board:

  • They will appoint a second alternate planning board member — interested residents should contact the town office; and
  • They will add questions proposed by the planning board to the survey to be mailed with the tax bills in August.

They renewed Natanis Golf Course’s liquor license, commenting that since owner Robert Browne retired from the selectboard the vote is 3-0, instead of 2-0-1.

They discussed inconclusively issues related to electronics, including board members’ email service and Miller’s proposal to upgrade the town office telephone system. As they talked, in the background the answering machine in the main office recorded an incoming call – an antique piece of machinery, they agreed.

The next regular Vassalboro select board meeting is scheduled for 6:30 p.m., Thursday, April 27, in the town office meeting room.

No contests on June 13 ballot

For the second year in a row Vassalboro voters will have no contests on the ballot at their June 13 elections.

Town Clerk Cathy Coyne said by the deadline for people to submit nomination papers to get their names on the ballot, David McCarthy, Jr., filed to succeed Barbara Redmond, who is retiring from the select board. Incumbents Erin “Libby” Loiko and Zachary Smith submitted signatures for re-election to the school board.

Vassalboro’s elections will be by written ballot Tuesday, June 13, with polls at the town office open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

May 2 planning board meeting canceled

The May 2 Vassalboro planning board meeting has been canceled, because, codes officer Robert Geaghan, Jr., said, there were no applications to be reviewed. The next regular board meeting will be Tuesday evening, June 6.

Planning board seeks alternate member

The Vassalboro planning board seeks a second alternate member, to be appointed by the select board in April or May. Interested residents should contact the town office.

Alternate members are expected to attend board meetings (normally held the first Tuesday of each month) and to participate in discussions. An alternate member votes only in the place of an absent regular member.

CHINA: Killdeer Heights subdivision request postponed to May 9

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by Mary Grow

China Planning Board members’ review of Timothy O’Brien’s application to subdivide one lot in Killdeer Heights subdivision into four lots has been put off to their May 9 meeting.

The review was to continue April 25, but on April 21 codes officer Nicholas French said surveyor Adam Ellis was still waiting for information and had asked to be on the May 9 agenda instead.

The 4.3-acre lot is bounded on the east by Lakeview Drive (Route 202) and on the west by the private road named Mountain View Drive, which runs south off Killdeer Point Road.

Board members held a well-attended public hearing on the application at their April 11 meeting. Neighbors suggested concerns they think board members should address as they consider the subdivision.

On the assumption that each of the proposed four lots would become a house site, abutters and members of the Killdeer Point Road Association asked for more attention to and information about steep slopes and the effect of development on run-off; the impact of more traffic on Mountain View Drive and the safety of entrances onto Lakeview Drive; the applicability of China’s Phosphorus Control Ordinance; and effects on wildlife, natural resources and the quality of life in an uncrowded rural town.

Neighbors would like to see results of the test pits that were dug to make sure each planned lot has a place where the soil is suitable for a septic system. One asked whether potential new home-owners would need to blast ledge to make basements, and if so whether the blasting could damage nearby houses.

They cited requirements in China’s subdivision ordinance (Chapter 3 of the town’s Land Use Ordinance), which has a list of effects to be avoided on the environment and on municipal services.

At the April 11 meeting, planning board co-chairman James Wilkens said information would be made available to the public as promptly as possible.

French said materials will be posted on the China website, china.govoffice.org, under Agendas & Minutes 2023 on the Agendas & Minutes tab under the Planning Board, which is under the right-hand tab Officials, Board & Committees.

After the hearing, board members tabled, again, consideration of changes in the Planning Board Ordinance and review of China’s comprehensive plan.

The main agenda item for their Tuesday, April 25, meeting is an application for an addition to the town office building. The meeting is scheduled at 6:30 p.m. in the town office meeting room.

China transfer station water tested; it is potable, with issues

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by Mary Grow

Transfer station staffer Cheyenne “CJ” Houle reported on several projects she is working on. The one completed at the end of March was getting the water at the transfer station tested: it is potable, Houle reported.

However, it still has an unpleasant odor that she and Director of Public Services Shawn Reed called “undescribable.” They think it comes from the water heater.

Asked about the water, Town Manager Rebecca Hapgood said, “I will not be drinking it nor requiring them to drink it.”

Houle is working on ways to make the RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) system more useful. If she cannot increase its value to town staff, she will consider alternatives.

She is also pursuing a possible grant, through the Maine Municipal Association, that would provide a solar lighting system for the free for the taking building. Again, if grant money is not available, she has an alternative in mind.

When Palermo representative Robert Kurek suggested a different grant program that might help develop a small waste-to-energy generation system at the China transfer station, Houle offered to investigate it.

Committee members praised Houle for her many activities.

Lucas and Reed discussed the possible reopening of the waste-to-energy plant in Hampden, financed by China and 114 other Maine municipalities and inactive for almost three years. The Municipal Review Committee (MRC), the group representing member towns, had scheduled an April 13 virtual meeting to discuss a new partnership, Lucas said.

Hapgood said she and Kurek had adjusted the cost of the trash bags Palermo residents need to dispose of household trash at China’s transfer station. The new prices are $2.80 for large bags (or $14 for a “sleeve” of five bags) and $1.60 for small bags.

The fee for trash Palermo residents bring in non-official bags will rise from $3 to $4.

The committee adjourned without setting its next meeting date.

China select board schedules May public hearings

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by Mary Grow

By the end of their April 24 meeting, China select board members had a public hearing scheduled for each of their May meetings.

The Monday, May 8, meeting will be preceded by a 6 p.m. public hearing on warrant articles for the June 13 annual town business meeting. The June 13 voting will be entirely by written ballot, with no chance to ask questions before voting.

China Town Manager Rebecca Hapgood invited select board members’ comments on a six-page draft document to inform China voters about the upcoming May 8 hearing and June 13 voting.

On Monday, May 22, select board members plan a public hearing on the Four Seasons Club request to open about two miles of town road for ATV use. Club President Thomas Rumpf made the request at the April 24 meeting.

Rumpf explained that part of the Bog Trail needs rebuilding before ATVers can use it. Therefore, he would like town officials’ approval to let them ride on a section of town roads east of China Lake.

The proposed route, shown on a map Rumpf prepared for the select board meeting, runs along Pleasant View Ridge Road and Bog Road between Jeff LaVerdiere’s gravel pit (with LaVerdiere’s permission) and Cole’s Corner at the north end of Hanson Road.

Select board members had many questions; Rumpf answered some and promised to find answers he was unsure of. In addition to how ATVs and motor vehicles would share the roads, board members are concerned about roadside homeowners’ reactions.

When they voted unanimously to schedule the public hearing that Rumpf said is a requirement if the proposal is to be allowed, they specified that residents along the affected roads are to be invited. Town Manager Rebecca Hapgood said she will see to it.

The ATV season begins June 1 and runs until Columbus Day (the second Monday in October), Rumpf said. He said 110 ATVers use China’s trails on an average weekend.

If select board members approve Rumpf’s request, they are considering leaving an opening to rescind their action if there are many complaints after ATVs start sharing the road.

In other business, board members agreed unanimously to start immediately enforcing the prohibition on out-of-towners bringing trash or recyclables to China’s transfer station. The only exception is for Palermo residents, who use the China facility under an agreement between the two towns.

Jeanette Smith, chairman of the Thurston Park Committee, announced a Community Clean-up Day at the park on Saturday, May 20 (rain date Sunday, May 21). Work begins about 9 a.m. Potential volunteers can get more information by emailing thurstonpark@outlook.com.

The May 8 China select board meeting will begin after the 6 p.m. public hearing concludes.

PHOTO: China sunset

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John Gardner recently captured this sunset over China Lake.

A true friendship story between two centenarians

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Theresa Gagne, 104, left, and Lucille Caouette, 102, have been friends since school, in Brunswick. Both now reside in the Waterville area. (contributed photo)

Submitted by Pauline Rancourt

This is the story of Theresa and Lucille who grew up in Brunswick, Maine. As lifelong friends they went to the same schools, married and later both moved to Waterville.

THERESA’S STORY

Theresa Wilson first lived on Golf Links Road, in Brunswick, and was part of a family of seven girls and three boys.

They would walk to school every day and meet up with other children at the cemetery, on River Road. From there they would walk to St. John’s school. Theresa did this every day, including Sundays for church. It was a good three miles for them. She and her sister Yvette became friends with Lucille during these walks. Theresa attended school up to eighth grade. Remember that in those days girls were only allowed an eighth grade education.

Once her formal education was completed she needed to find work. She was only 15 at that time. Some strings had to be pulled in order for her to get a job at the Freeport shoe shop. One night her ride was unavailable and she had to walk home from Freeport to Brunswick. It was dark when she got home. Her father was very upset that his daughter had to walk home that distance. Theresa needed to find a new job. Just say that was her last day working there. Strings were pulled once again as she was only 16 years old. She found a job at the Brunswick mill. She worked the dayshift and was responsible for the operation of 40 weaving machines.

During this time there was a guy named Emile who would travel from Waterville to visit his friend in Brunswick. During these visits he met Theresa and they dated for a good year. They married and she became Theresa Gagne, and were soon awaiting the birth of a child. It was a girl! Unfortunately, Emile was called into the service of our nation and had to leave the day of the birth of their child. When he returned from the service they continued to live in Brunswick and had three daughters. Emile had trouble speaking English and could not find work due to this issue. They ended up moving to Waterville, where they lived above Emile’s parent’s home. Their family grew with the birth of a son. After the passing of Emile’s parents, the family moved downstairs where Theresa lives to this day.

Theresa worked at the Bates Mill, in Augusta, and Emile worked at the Waterville post office.

Sadly, Emile passed away in 2010.

LUCILLE’S STORY

Lucille Menard also lived in Brunswick on a farm located on the River Road and was part of a family of six girls and three boys. Lucille would meet a group of friends, one of them being Theresa, at the cemetery, and they would all walk to St. John’s school. Lucille only made it to the seventh grade. She had health issues which kept her from completing the eighth grade. When Lucille turned 18, she worked at the Brunswick mill. She worked the night shift on the same set of weaving machines as Theresa. Lucille started by loading bobbins on the weaving machines. Her cousin noticed how well she was keeping up with the demands of this job. He moved her onto the weaving machines, and she was responsible for the operation of the same 40 machines as Theresa.

Then Ray came into the picture. He also worked at the mill, but in the cloth room. He wanted to meet Lucille so he noticed that she would go to the park and listen to the music and asked his friend to go talk with Lucille to see if she wanted to meet Ray. But her response was, “if he wants to meet me, let him ask me himself.” Lucille held off for a few months before she said yes. They dated for a year and then were married. She is now Lucille Caouette, and they lived in Brunswick. After the birth of the first three babies, in Brunswick, they moved to Waterville. Ray worked at Augusta Distributors, a division of Eastern Inc. After their eighth child was born, they moved to Winslow where they added two more.

Lucille was a stay at home mom until the last child started school and then she got a job working at St. John the Baptist church rectory, in Winslow.

Ray passed in 2002.

THEIR STORY

While living in Waterville and Winslow, they would see each other once in a while. It was when Theresa’s sisters, Yvette, Pauline and Doris came to see Theresa that they really started to see each other more often. Theresa and Lucille would often meet and go to lunch together.

  • Both are from Brunswick.
  • Both went to the same schools.
  • Both worked at the Brunswick mill.
  • Both married and moved to Waterville.
  • Both got their driver’s license in there 50s.
  • Both are now the only living family member.
  • Both have their birthdays in April.
  • Both celebrated their 100th birthday.

Now they both celebrated another birthday. Theresa turned 104 years old on April 18; Lucille celebrated her 102nd birthday on April 25.

A friendship that has lasted a very long time. How sweet is that?

Issue for April 20, 2023

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Issue for April 20, 2023

Celebrating 35 years of local news

Avery Theriault receives legislative sentiment

On Tuesday, April 11, Senator Matt Pouliot (R-Kennebec), center right, welcomed Avery Theriault, center left, a senior at Cony High School, in Augusta, to the State House to honor her with a Legislative Sentiment for receiving the 2023 Maine Principal Association Award. This award is given to a student who has great academic excellence, participates in community service and contributes to the school community. Avery attended the senate session along with her parents and grandparents…

Town News

Budget committee recommends town voters approve 2023-24 budget

VASSALBORO – At their April 11 meeting, Vassalboro Budget Committee members recommended town voters approve the 2023-24 school budget as presented by the school board. They also endorsed most of the municipal budget recommendations, differing from the select board on three issues…

Members look at school calendar with no decisions

VASSALBORO – At a short April 11 meeting, Vassalboro School Board members talked about the 2023-24 school calendar, without making a final decision, and accepted two more staff changes. The calendar issue was how to provide teaching staff with more professional days, time without students to work together, school-wide and in groups by grade or specialty, on the variety of educational issues they deal with…

ICE OUT Winner 2023

CHINA LAKE – The Town Line’s official ice out judge has ruled that ice went out of China Lake on April 12, 2023. Although no one guessed the exact date, the closest was Carrie McGrath, of South China, who missed it by two days, with a guess of April 10. Congratulations!…

Aubrey Slater named 2023 New Century Workforce Scholar

FAIRFIELD – Aubrey Slater, a student at Kennebec Valley Community College, in Fairfield, has been named a 2023 New Century Workforce Scholar and will receive a $1,250 scholarship…

Bar Harbor Bank & Trust recognized as one of “World’s Best Banks”

So. CHINA – Bar Harbor Bankshares (NYSE American: BHB), the parent company of Bar Harbor Bank & Trust, is pleased to announce the bank has been recognized by Forbes as one of the “World’s Best Banks” based largely on service and trust metrics. Of the 75 US based banks to make the list, Bar Harbor Bank & Trust is one of only three banks headquartered in Northern New England…

PHOTO: LaCroix captures first place at national competition

SKOWHEGAN – Huard’s Sport Karate team member Lucia LaCroix, 12, of Skowhegan, captured first place in forms at the Ocean State Grand Nationals Martial Arts Tournament, in Warwick, Rhode Island, on Sunday, April 2. She also captured third place in weapons competition…

Local happenings

EVENTS: It’s Maine Pottery Tour time

CENTRAL ME – Springtime in Maine can mean daffodils or snow, and sometimes both, but the first weekend in May has meant the Maine Pottery Tour for more than a decade. The 11th annual Maine Pottery Tour welcomes visitors on Saturday, May 6 and Sunday, May 7, 2023. The self-guided tour is an opportunity to enjoy spring in Vacationland and the hospitality of local potters in their studios…

EVENTS: Gaslight Theater’s 2023 season continues

HALLOWELL – Gaslight Theater’s 2023 Season of Laughter continued in April and May with Peter Shaffer’s Black Comedy, directed by Lucille Rioux. The show will be produced at Hallowell Cithy Hall Auditorium, at 1 Winthrop St., in Hallowell, over two weekends, including Sunday matinees, April 28, 29 and 30, and May 5, 6, 7. Friday and Saturday shows start at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday matinees start at 2 p.m…

EVENTS: Scouts to honor legionnaires

CENTRAL ME – The Kennebec Valley District of Scouting will honor the American Legion, American Legion Auxiliary, and Sons of the American Legion during a special breakfast to be held on Saturday, May 6, at 8:30 a.m., at American Legion Fitzgerald-Cummings Post #2, in Augusta, located at 7 Legion Drive…

Webber’s Pond

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

Name that film!

Identify the film in which this famous line originated and qualify to win FREE passes to Railroad Square Cinema in Waterville: “Open the pod bay doors, please HAL.” Email us at townline@townline.org with subject “Name that film!” Deadline for submission is May 4, 2023…

Listing of local town meetings

CENTRAL ME — Listing of 2023 local town meetings in central Maine. To have your town listed, please email us at townline@townline.org…

CALENDAR OF EVENTS: Artist Trading Card program

PALERMO — The Palermo Community Library will be rolling out its new Artist Trading Card program on Saturday, April 15, from 1 to 3 p.m. What are Artist Trading Cards you ask?… and many other local events!

2022-’23 Real Estate Tax Due Dates

Real estate tax due dates for the towns of Albion, China, Fairfield, Oakland, Palermo, Sidney, Vassalboro, Waterville, Windsor and Winslow…

Obituaries

VASSALBORO – Ann Marie (Rodrigue) Morneau, 71, passed away peacefully at her home Saturday morning, April 1, 2023. Ann was born in Waterville, on February 22, 1951, the daughter of Roland and Geraldine (Duguay) Rodrigue… and remembering 6 others.

Common Ground: Win a $10 gift certificate!

DEADLINE: Wednesday, May 11, 2023

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

Previous winner: Alden Cook, Augusta

Town Line Original Columnists

Roland D. HalleeSCORES & OUTDOORS

by Roland D. Hallee | There is nothing like beating a subject to death. But, in this case, it’s worth every word. You have to be living in a cave not to know that deer ticks are at an all time high. They are everywhere. Friends and family have told me stories about their encounters with the insect, and they all have one thing in common. They have all had multiple numbers on them at one time…

GROWING YOUR BUSINESS

by Dan Beaulieu | As most of you reading this know, it is more difficult than ever to find people, companies, contractors to work on your house or facility. Even my friends at libraries and churches are having a difficult time finding people to work on their projects…

I’M JUST CURIOUS

by Debbie Walker | Is your washing machine like mine? Well, it’s either the washer or the dryer. One or both of them eat socks. I even remember my mother had the same problem, so I know it’s not just mine. Well anyway, I am including some uses for the sock that’s left. I found these in my First magazine. I love this stuff…

Peter CatesREVIEW POTPOURRI

by Peter Cates | Amazon Prime has a large array of vintage films that I have been lately bingeing on and I recently viewed a few choice ones: 1941’s Adam Had Four Sons starred Ingrid Bergman (1915-1982), Warner Baxter (1888-1951), Fay Wray (1907-2004), Richard Denning (1914-1998), and Susan Hayward (1917-1975)…

SMALL SPACE GARDENING

by Melinda Myers | Brighten your indoor décor, patio, deck, or balcony by forcing a few spring flowering bulbs into bloom. Just plant, give them a chill and enjoy a few extra daffodils, hyacinths, tulips, crocus and grape hyacinths this winter and spring. All you need is a suitable container, some well-drained potting mix, the bulbs and a place to give the bulbs the chill necessary to force them to bloom. Select a container with drainage holes that is deep enough to accommodate the largest bulbs…

LIFE ON THE PLAINS

by Roland D. Hallee | A couple of weeks ago we took a stroll down the west side of Main St., in Waterville, and I fore warned you there maybe a few gaps along the way I didn’t remember. Well, thanks to some readers, who obviously have a better memory than I, gave me calls to fill some of those spaces. So, here we go again, up the west side of Main St…

FOR YOUR HEALTH

(NAPSI) — What if you could transform your life today and start feeling better tomorrow? What if it wasn’t that big of a deal to do so? And what if you didn’t need to spend a fortune to get there either? You know what would also be nice? If you could transform not just your physical appearance, but also the way you think about yourself and your life…