Halloween theme at Camp Bomazeen

Patch is the design from Dalton Curtis that will be used by the Bomazeen Old Timers to fundraise for their efforts to provide ongoing support for Camp Bomazeen.

Enjoy a day of Halloween-Themed Activities for families at Camp Bomazeen. Come in costume, join in the games and fun this fall! As you travel around, don’t forget to get your treat.

This will take place on Saturday, October 1, 2022. 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., at Camp Bomazeen, 656 Horse Point Rd., Belgrade, for Cub Scouts and non-Cub Scout families. $7/pp. Walk-ins welcome!

All youth are to be accompanied by responsible adults. They are only able to accept cash for the door, pumpkins, hot food, and trading post. You can order your patches at the event for $5.

All participants are welcomed to participate in all the following activities during the day: sports and games, shooting sports, multiple crafts, decorate your own pumpkin for $5, cooking activity, Monster Mouth, concession stand, trading post, special guests, hayride wagon, and food and personal care drive, (non-perishable and unexpired items).

Saturday Schedule: 10:30 a.m., registration and check-in begins; 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., activity periods; 4:15 p.m., closing ceremony at parade field. This is a chemical free location, please plan accordingly. Licensed service animals are welcomed. No pets!

For more information contact Julie McKenney, 207-530-0362 or campbomazeen@gmail.com. Subject to change at a moment’s notice. Sorry for any inconvenience this may cause.

Augusta cub scouts help needy students

Cub Leader Josh Demers, Scarlett Mudie, Landon Demers, Mack Demers, Willow Mudie, Cub Leader Lynette Mudie, and Cub Leader Jeff Morton. All live in Augusta except the Demers’ family who live in Windsor. (contributed photo)

Cub Scouts from Augusta Pack #603 were at Shaw’s Supermarket over the weekend of September 17 and 18 collecting money to purchase school supplies for needy students. For each box of supplies the Scouts purchased at Staples for a needy student, the business donated a second box of school supplies. The boxes contain such items as pencils, erasers, markers, highlighters, glue sticks, etc. Cub Pack #603 serves children from Augusta, Windsor, and Chelsea.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, September 22, 2022

DONNA BOWMAN

FAIRFIELD – Donna Bowman, 79, of Fairfield, passed away suddenly on Friday, Sep­tember 9, 2022, in her home. She was born in Gardiner on February 6, 1943, daughter of Llewellyn and Effie Thompson Bowman.

Donna grew up in Hallowell, lived in Portland and Augusta, both, for short periods of time, then moved to Readfield where she lived for many years making a home for her family. She graduated from Hall Dale High School and then went on to University of Maine in Farmington to receive her master’s degree in Early Childhood Development. Donna worked at several companies working with children with developmental disabilities before moving on to an assisted living program, where she happily retired in 2006.

She was an avid Red Sox fan and would spend most of her time watching the games, hardly ever missing a game. Many times, becoming very emotional over the play of her team, especially this year. She liked knitting, crocheting and making Christmas ornaments, stockings, and other arts and crafts for her family and friends. She also loved the slots, enjoying her trips to Hollywood Slots, Oxford Casino, Foxwoods, Florida, and Las Vegas, as well.

She is survived by her children Kevin Norwood and wife Danielle Norwood, of Readfield, Bill Norwood and wife Joyce Norwood, of Manchester, Gary Norwood and wife Lisa Norwood, of Sabattus, and Kelly Rogers and wife Kelly Barnes, of Fairfield; nine grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren with one more on the way; nephew, Tim Bowman, of Farmingdale; her niece, Cindy Beach and her husband, Howard Beach, of Vassalboro; cousin, Mary Thompson;.

She was predeceased by her father, Llewellyn Bowman, mother, Effie Bowman; brother, Robert Bowman, brother, Andrew Bowman, and sisters-in-law Sylvia Leroy and Jean Bowman.

Donna’s visitation will be on Thursday, Sept. 22, from 4 to 5 p.m., followed by her memorial service at 5 p.m., in the Knowlton and Hewins Funeral Home, 1 Church St. Augusta. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited.

Arrangements are in the care of the Knowlton and Hewins Funeral Home, 1 Church St., Augusta, where condolences, memories, and photos may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the website at http://www.khrfuneralhomes.com.

Because she was an avid animal lover and had many pets over the years, donations can be made in memory of Donna Bowman to Ark of Maine, arkofmaine.org, a nonprofit with a mission to rescue, rehabilitate and place abused, neglected, and abandoned or orphaned animals.

TIMOTHY ADAMS

CLINTON – Timothy “Tim” Adams, 59, passed away on Saturday, September 10, 2022. He was born Dec­em­ber 12, 1962, in Waterville, the son of Beverly (Pooler) Adams and Richard White.

Most recently, Tim worked as a delivery driver for Waterville House of Pizza. Previously, he was an automobile mechanic for more than 30 years. He worked for several years at Keith’s Auto Repair, on College Avenue, in Waterville.

Music was a defining part of him. He played bass guitar for the rock ‘n roll band R Factor 13. When he was a boy, he liked to play the harmonica. He was also a NASCAR fan. His most favorite professional driver was Dale Earnhardt Sr.

Tim is survived by the love of his life, Kristi Lovell Adams. They were married on July 24, 1988.

He is also survived by his mother, Beverly Adams, and his siblings: Carol Sturtevant (Nelson), Janelle Doig (Richard), Darlene Hersom (John), Bebe Howe (Cass), and Kathy Adams; three brothers, David, Ricky, and Bruce White; his mother-in-law Diane Lovell; his sister-in-law Vanda Madore (Rodney); and his brother-in-law Parrish Lovell (Kathy); numerous, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Tim was preceded in death by his father Richard White, and his grandparents, Edgar and Georgianne White, grandparents, Raymond and Alice Pooler, and his brother Alan Nason; his father-in-law Vince “Butch” Lovell.

There will be no funeral services. A private burial will be held for close family and friends on Saturday, September 24, at 10 a.m., at the Lewis Cemetery, 51 Cottle Road, Oakland.

Arrangements are by Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 107 Main Street, Fairfield, Maine.

An expanded obituary can be read on the Lawry Brothers website: lawrybrothers.com/obituaries.

A Celebration of Life potluck gathering will be held on Saturday, October 1, from 1-4 p.m., at the Forrest J. Pare VFW Post #1285, hall, 51 Water Street, Waterville, Maine.

BETTY Q. TWOMBLY

PORTLAND—Betty Quimby Twombly, 96, passed away Saturday, September 10, 2022, at Maine Medical Center, in Portland, on the 18th anniversary of her husbands passing, Guy E. Twombly. She was born August 25, 1926, in Brooks, the daughter of Jerome R. Quimby and S. Nina Webb Quimby.

After her 1944 graduation from Morse Memorial High School in Brooks, Betty went on to attend the University of Maine in Orono, graduating in 1948 with a degree in home economics.

Betty was a member of the Riverside Congregational UCC for 55 years. During her 58 year residency in Vassalboro, she was generous of her time, volunteering countless hours to various civic and church functions.
Sewing brought Betty great joy and she was an accomplished seamstress. She often constructed clothing for herself and her family, with a special love of quilting and crafting. Betty was an avid reader, especially as she aged and could no longer sew. Some of Betty’s favorite pasttimes included entertaining guests in her home and making all feel welcome (and well fed). She was always knowledgeable of current events, whether it was political news or the latest fashion trends.

She is survived by her children, Guy “Allan” Twombly, of Augusta, and Susan W. Reeder, of Portland; a grandson, Benjamin Reeder and his wife Samantha Beck Reeder, of Falmouth; a sister, Jane Stemm, of Florida, and several nieces and nephews.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, October 1, 2022, at 1 p.m., at Plummer Funeral Home, 16 Pleasant St., Augusta, Maine.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Diabetes Association at www.diabetes.org.

Condolences, stories, and photos may be shared by visiting www.plummerfh.com.

BEVERLY COOK

WINSLOW – Beverly Cook, 91, passed away peacefully at Oak Grove Nursing Home, in Waterville, on Sunday, September 11, 2022. She was born May 1, 1931, the daughter of Dorothy (Prentiss) and Augustus Harrison.

She attended Clinton schools, graduating valedictorian of her graduating class.

After graduating, Beverly met the love of her life, Roland, and they shared 73 years together. She worked for Grand Central Railroad, retiring after 39 years as chief clerk. Beverly loved to dance, she and Roland traveled the world dancing together. Line dancing, ballroom dancing, she loved it all. Beverly loved playing organ and bridge. Later in life, Beverly and Roland became snowbirds, wintering in Florida and returning each spring to their home and family in Winslow.

She was predeceased by her parents; her daughter, Cindy Cook, and her son, Ricky Cook.

She is survived by her husband, Roland Cook; grandchildren Brad Cook, Ryan Cook, and Terry.

There will be a graveside service Thursday September 22, at 1 p.m., at Greenlawn Rest.

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.

DERON JOHNSON

SMITHFIELD – Deron “Duke” Johnson, 51, of Smithfield, passed away, at home, on Sunday, September 11, 2022. He was the son of Carol and John “Jack” Johnson Sr.

He was a devoted husband and father to his wife of 12 years, Christy Johnson, and son, Damon Johnson, both of whom he loved more than anything in the world. Duke could liven up any room with his smile and charisma. He was a loyal and devoted friend. He loved ice cream. His radio was always tuned to the Lithium channel and he liked to sing Chris Cornell songs. Duke loved to travel and was adventurous. But his passion was fly fishing, and if he could pick any river to fly fish it would be in Montana.

Duke graduated from Skowhegan Area High School in 1989, and Eastern Maine Community College in 1999. He also served in the U.S. Air Force in the 337th Airlift Squadron, and was a licensed white water rafting guide. He worked in the Electrical and Instrumentation Shop at SAPPI, in Hinckley, for 17 years alongside his father, brothers, and co-workers who became a second family.

Duke loved life and lived it to its fullest, even while battling cancer in his final year. His peaceful will be felt throughout the community because of how many lives he touched in his 51 years.

Duke’s immediate family meant the world to him and they were by his side throughout his brightest days and hardest hours. They include his brothers: John and Marie Johnson Jr., and Brian and Stephanie Johnson; nieces and nephew: Brooke and Matthew Libby; Caitlyn Johnson; Tanner Johnson; cousins Kathleen and David Talley; and in-laws Joseph and Annette Lepkowski.

A casual celebration of life will take place on Sunday, October 2, 2022, at The Water’s Edge Estate, 624 Waterville Road, Skowhegan, Maine between 4–7 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Yellowstone Forever.

EMILY A. HARTUNG

SIDNEY – Emily Ann Doak Hartung, 68, passed away on Monday, September 12, 2022, following a year-long battle with pancreatic cancer. Emily Ann Doak Hartung was born in Bath, to Mar­thon, Jr. and Elizabeth “Betty” Howard Doak, of Days Ferry, on October 2, 1953. She was the third of five children.

Emily graduated from Morse High School in 1971 where she was active in outdoor track and field, swimming, and figure skating. Emily loved spending time at Popham Beach and getting together with her girlfriends. She always said that life was about choices, it was important to bloom where you are planted, and lead with positivity.

She went on to study education at the University of Maine at Farmington. Emily was crowned Miss Maine International in 1973 and traveled to New Orleans to compete in the Miss USA-International pageant. Emily was an active member of the Phi Nu Omega Sorority and UMF ski team. At UMF, she swept Dallas Hartung off his feet and after graduating, the two were married on August 23,1975. Emily went on to teach fifth grade before diving into a career in business. She pursued her passion for teaching through being a Girl Scout Troop Leader.

Emily was best known as one of the founding members and co-owner of the first female-owned and operated business in downtown Farmington, The Calico Patch. “The Patch” was known and loved by many as a fine gift shop that Emily ran for 37 years. She was also a founding member of Devaney, Doak, and Garrett Booksellers. Emily had a passion for supporting other female entrepreneurs by promoting their handiwork in the shop and was active in the Farmington Downtown Association. She was also a dedicated member of the Farmington Historical Society, brought joy to the Pierce House residents through her companionship and artwork, celebrated friendships at Old South Congregational Church, and served as secretary, director, and later president of the Ward Pond Association.

When her daughters called her to travel, Emily gladly went along for the ride. As a family, they visited Canada, Germany, Italy, England, and most recently traversed the state of North Carolina from beach to mountains. Emily delighted in scouring the shelves at the Farmington Public Library and sharing her passion for reading with her family. In her free time, Emily enjoyed quilting with the Blue Moon Quiltmakers and painting with watercolor and acrylic. En plein air painting was Emily’s favorite way to create art, surrounded by nature. She founded Emily’s Salon where artists would gather together weekly to paint on her sunlit, plant-filled porch.

Emily and Dallas spent every summer and eventually retired at their camp on Ward Pond, in Sidney. In retirement, Emily enjoyed playing pickleball, baking with her grandkids, skiing with girlfriends, being part of Wine Club, and playing nightly Rummikub games with Dallas and neighbors.

She enjoyed daily swims across the pond and teaching her grandchildren how to swim and jump off the dock. She taught them how to not take life too seriously, use their imagination while playing dress up, and took them on adventure walks to find fairy gardens. When she wasn’t “poolside”, Emily was getting her hands dirty in the garden. Her gardens were her pride and joy. Emily loved to entertain friends and family surrounded by fruitful blooms that attracted countless birds, butterflies, and bees. This was her “slice of heaven” and she delighted in gifting plants to others so they too could find the joy in gardening.

She is survived by her husband, Dallas Lee Hartung, of Farmington; her two daughters, Jennifer and husband Davyd Collinson and their children Guinevere Elizabeth (8) and Noah William (6) of Litchfield, and Lisa Hartung and husband Brent Watkins and their child Maeve Ann (1), of Cary, North Carolina; her siblings Andrea (Jack) Conner, of Freeport, and Greg (Susan) Doak, Randy (Valerie) Doak, and Warren Doak, all of Woolwich; her father-in-law Alton “Honk” Hartung, of Manchester; and sister-in-law Terry Bourisk, of Winthrop.

She is predeceased by her parents.

There will be a celebration for Emily on her 69th birthday at their camp on Ward Pond, on Sunday, October 2, 2022, from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Arrangements are in the care of Knowlton & Hewins Funeral Home and Cremation Care, One Church St., Augusta, where memories, condolences and photos may be shared with the family on the obituary page of our website at http://www.khrfuneralhomes.com

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made for children’s programs at the Farmington Public Library, Pilgrim Lodge, and the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens to promote reading, faith, and gardening for future generations.

KENNETH J. LaPIERRE

VASSALBORO – Kenneth Joseph LaPierre, 68, passed away at his home, in Vassalboro, early Tuesday morning, September 13, 2022. Ken was born May 28, 1954, to Constance (Marois) LaPierre and Aime J. LaPierre.

Ken was the oldest son of eight children. He attended Cony High School and served in the Maine Army National Guard.

Ken worked for Central Maine Power for the past 30 years. He retired in 2019. Apart from working for CMP he also worked for Chris and Mike Karagiannes as maintenance manager for local properties.

Ken enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. When he wasn’t working, Ken loved to spend time tinkering around his house, doing yard work, cleaning the pool, and adding to his collection of tools in his garage. You could always depend on Ken to have at least six of the same items, “just in case someone needed to borrow something”.

In his younger years, Ken enjoyed riding his Harley and going on bike trips with his wife, Joy. Ken never missed one of Josh’s baseball practices or games, even when he had a list of things to do a mile long. Ken idolized his beautiful granddaughter, Addisyn Harper. She was the light of his life and he looked forward to all of her sleepovers at Grammy and Grampy’s house. Ken never missed a minute of overtime and thought of his CMP co-workers as his “second family”. Everyone knew Ken as the most loving husband, father, sibling, and son a family could ask for.

Ken loved to host summer barbecues, entertain friends and family, and became the patriarch of the family after the death of his father, Aime and his mother, Connie. Uncle Ken will always be remembered by his many nieces and nephews as the uncle who would tease the living heck out of them. As much as he teased, they always knew that if they were in any trouble or needed anything, they could always rely on their Uncle Ken. Ken’s antics were legendary and those who knew him have their own stories to tell. Though he appeared to have a tough exterior, Ken had a heart of gold. His biggest joy in life was to always lend a helping hand to anyone that needed it.

Ken is survived by his wife, Joy; son, Joshua and his wife Erin; granddaughter, Addisyn Harper; his siblings Gloria LaPierre, Jane LaPierre (Ernie), Danny LaPierre (Paula), Lisa LaPierre-Cote, Gary LaPierre (Tammy) and Amy Steiniger (John); and many cousins; nieces, nephews; and great-nieces and nephews.

Ken was preceded in death by his parents; older sister, Sandra (Lapierre) Damren, and his infant son, Brandon Joshua LaPierre.

No funeral service is being held.

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

DALE A. GARDNER

JEFFERSON – Dale Austin Gardner, 69, of Jefferson, died peacefully on Wednesday, September 14, 2022, at the Togus VA Medical Center. He was born in Gardiner on October 27, 1952, the youngest son of Bernard and Irene Gardner.

Dale served in the U.S. Army, in Vietnam, and the Navy, in Okinawa. He retired from his work at the Maine State Prison in 2004 after 28 years. He loved hunting, fishing, camping trips in the Allagash with the guys and particularly bird watching on the Kennebec River, but nothing compared to the love he had for his family.

He was predeceased by his mother Irene, his father Bernard, and brother Judson.

Dale is survived by his daughters Heather (Yogi) Pratt and Tonya (Roy) Gardner; grandchildren Dakota (Josh) Cutler, Logan, Kabien and Ava; great-grandchildren Gunnar Smith, Grayson and Louissa- Jean Cutler; sister Jackie; brother David, wife Patricia; and many nieces and nephews.

A military committal service will be held on Tuesday, September 27, at 1 p.m., in the chapel at the Maine Veterans’ Memorial Cemetery, 163 Mount Vernon Road, Augusta.

A Celebration of life will be held Saturday, October 1, at 11 a.m., at 132 Boynton Schoolhouse Road, in Jefferson

Arrangements are entrusted with Staples Funeral Home and Cremation Care, 53 Brunswick Avenue, Gardiner, Maine.

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the Staples Funeral Home website, http://www.staplesfuneralhome.com.

ROGER L. SHORTY

FAIRFIELD CENTER – Roger Luke Shorty, 69, passed away in his home on Friday, September 16, 2022. Roger was born in Waterville, on Saturday, October 4, 1952, the son of Luke P. and Gladys A. (Lessard) Shorty.

He attended school at Immaculate Heart of Mary and Lawrence High School, both in Fairfield. He received a certification in Industrial Electronics Technology from Southern Maine Vocational Technical Institute and an Associate in Applied Science in Electronics Instrumentation from Kennebec Valley Vocational Technical Institute. Roger was drafted into the U.S. Army and served out his two-year term before returning home to Maine.

Roger’s career as an electrician, programmer, and systems specialist found him in the employment of Keyes Fibre Co. (now Huhtamaki), Industrial Electric Inc., SAPPI, and Wrabacon, in Oakland.

Outside of work, Roger was a very active member of his church which was part of the Parish of Corpus Christi. He volunteered regularly at the Fairfield Interfaith Food Pantry and was a member of the Knights of Columbus Council #11303, where he held the office of Chancellor and past Grand Knight.

Throughout the vast majority of his life, he was an active member of Victor Grange where he took up the mantle of Overseer, Assistant Steward, Treasurer, and Master. In Pomona Grange, he served as assistant steward. He and his wife were honored as the State Grange young couple, and both served as a deputy at State Grange where they served on multiple committees. Through this work, Roger championed the cause of community and bringing people together in service to each other.

In his retirement, Roger worked on refining the small joys of life. Always a lifelong learner he would enjoy audio books, observing the subtle and beautiful inner workings of nature, and philosophizing on the deeper points of life and existence. Domestically, he loved cooking for Wanda, cleaning the house, dancing like no one was looking, and playing bridge twice a week.

He was predeceased by his parents, Luke and Gladys, and his brother, David.

He is survived by his wife, Wanda; his children Luke Shorty and Lisa Smith, Zachary Shorty and Rebecca Bannister, Matthew Shorty and Taylor Sinclair; grandson and child of Zachary and Rebecca, Alfred Shorty; siblings Marie and Reggie Rancourt, Linda Boone, Sandra and Tony Tibbetts; Jane and John Miller; and several nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Notre Dame Church, in Waterville, on Monday September 26, at 10 a.m., followed by the interment of his remains at Tozier Cemetery, and a reception and celebration of life will be hosted by Victor Grange #49 and Knights of Columbus Council #11303, at the Victor Grange Hall at 11:30 a.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, donations may be made in Roger’s name to Victor Grange #49 to establish a community fund to help those in the community that are in need. Donations can be sent to 96 Bearce Road, Winthrop, ME 04364 Attention: Roger Shorty Community Fund.

LETTERS: Prefer Christians as their ruler

To the editor:

It won’t be long before voting will start in Maine. We should counsel what George Washington said, “It is impossible to rightly govern the world without God and the Bible.”

Proverb 12:5 also says, “The thoughts of the righteous are right: but the counsels of the wicked are deceit.”

The very first Supreme Court justice, John Jay, said, “Americans should select and prefer Christians as their rulers.”

Remember these things when you pray and when you go to vote.

Marcel LeRoi
Belgrade

Vassalboro select board approves three-item local ballot

by Mary Grow

The two Vassalboro select board members present at the Sept. 15 meeting (board chairman Barbara Redmond was on vacation) unanimously approved a three-item local ballot to be presented to town voters at the polls on Nov. 8.

The first item is election of a moderator, traditionally done by those present as the polls open at 8 a.m. in the town office building.

The second item is approval or rejection of a new “Moratorium Ordinance on Commercial Solar Arrays.”

The third item is election of a member from Vassalboro of the Kennebec Water District Board of Trustees. Frank Richards is Vassalboro’s current representative, and according to the KWD website the board’s vice-chairman. Town Clerk Cathy Coyne said in an email that his name will be on the ballot for re-election.

The two-page moratorium ordinance applies only to commercial solar developments, defined as “a solar energy collection structure of any size that is distributed to the electric power grid and not credited to one or more designated end users.”

The ordinance says if voters approve the moratorium, it will be in effect for 180 days, unless the select board decides on a shorter or longer term, to give select board and planning board members time to add amendments to current local ordinances “to protect the public from health and safety risks.”

While the moratorium, if approved, is in effect, no town official is allowed to “accept, process, approve, deny, or in any other way act upon” an application for any aspect of a commercial solar installation.

A public hearing on the proposed moratorium is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Sept. 29, in the town office meeting room, at the beginning of the next select board meeting. Select board members intend to meet with the planning board at that board’s Oct. 4 meeting.

Select board members and road foreman Eugene Field agreed on two other matters at the Sept. 15 meeting.

Board members approved Field’s request to spend $100,500 for a lightly used 2012 Case International tractor, with a front bucket, and a 16-foot-boom brushhog roadside mower to attach to the side of the tractor.

At the June 6 part of Vassalboro’s 2022 annual town meeting, voters appropriated $106,000 for the purchase, which will eliminate the need to rent roadside mowing equipment. Field plans to use the tractor generously in 2023 to catch up on clearing town roadsides.

He said he intends to store it in the salt shed for now, but when the 2023 public works budget is prepared, he will probably ask for additional equipment storage space.

Town Manager Mary Sabins said that as the Maine Department of Transportation plans to rebuild sidewalks in North Vassalboro, engineer Douglas Coombs asked whether town officials want to replace the current granite curbing with granite again, or with concrete slipform.

Concrete slipform, or poured concrete, is less expensive, but, Sabins said, Coombs told her it requires occasional maintenance treatments.

After discussion, with Field participating, the two select board members voted to ask the highway department to install new granite curbing. They cited the maintenance as an argument against concrete. Field added that granite is more durable.

In other action, board members approved a proclamation recognizing the week of Sept. 17 through Sept 23 as Constitution Week.

They granted four permits to serve liquor at events at St. Bridget’s Center, in North Vassalboro.

Payments approved included $150 to the Town of China, to allow Vassalboro residents to bring confidential papers to the annual shredding event at the China Public Works building on Alder Park Road, scheduled from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 15.

Sabins said as a past president of the Maine Municipal Association, she has been invited to MMA’s Oct. 5 and 6 annual meeting, at the association’s expense. Select board members appointed her a voting delegate.

The next regular Vassalboro select board meeting is scheduled for 6:30 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 29, in the town office meeting room.

Vassalboro select board to meet in executive session

by Mary Grow

The Vassalboro Select Board will meet in Executive Session on Monday, September 26, at 5 p.m., at the Town Office to make a plan to replace the town manager who has expressed her intention to retire effective January 2, 2023. The board will talk with two executive search firms about services they can offer the select board. This meeting will be closed to the public.

China planners OK childcare business

by Mary Grow

China Planning Board members unanimously approved the only application on their Sept. 13 agenda, authorizing Kayla Saraiva to open Brookview Childcare at her home at 14 Brookview Lane, in South China.

Saraiva said a home daycare had been run in the house until just before she bought the property in the fall of 2019. She plans a similar operation, she said.

Her application says she intends to accept up to 12 children, aged from six weeks to 12 years. Hours of operation will be 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Fridays.

Codes officer Nicholas French said he had checked the septic system.

After the permit was approved, board member Walter Bennett asked French to talk with appropriate people about the crumbling pavement on Route 3, where the Family Dollar store entrance meets the highway.

French said the store’s permit required pervious pavement for the parking lot, as a run-off control measure; and pervious pavement requires maintenance.

Board chairman Scott Rollins said he would check with the state highway department. He asked French to talk with officials at Family Dollar.

The next regular China Planning Board member is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 27.

Open planning board seats

With three planning board positions open in November, there is only one name on the Nov. 8 local ballot: James Wilkens is unopposed for re-election as the at-large member.

District 2 incumbent Toni Wall said she will accept re-election if she receives the most write-in votes. Since she has been continuing her interrupted Appalachian Trail hike, she submitted her nomination papers hastily and was not surprised to hear that they were short a signature.

District 4 member and current board chairman Scott Rollins said he will not serve another term. He has too many other responsibilities, he said. District 4 is the southwestern part of China.

WINDSOR: Assessors give approval to tax abatements and supplemental tax warrant

by The Town Line staff

At their August 30 meeting, the Windsor Select Board, suspending as the select board, and convening as the board of assessors, unanimously (3-0, Ronald F. Brann had yet to arrive), approved the abatements and supplemental tax warrant, as presented by Assessor’s Agent Vern Ziegler, as follows: Abatement of $301.40 for David and Angela Nelson, for an omitted homestead; The Colwell Family Revocable Trust, in the amount of $1,213.82, The Colwell Family Revocable Trust for $1,178.20, and the Colwell Family Revocable Trust, in the amount of $1,243.96, all for error in land. Also, the Supplemental Tax Warrant for the Colwell family in the amount of $1,724.83, because of a lot merge omitted from assessment.

Ziegler distributed the 2022 municipal valuation return and was accepted by the select board, in a 3-0 vote.

The members then suspended as the board of assessors and reconvened as the select board.

The board then authorized Town Manager Theresa Haskell to send a request for a contract to review the town re-evaluation.

A tree reportedly ready to fall on the Hunts Meadow Road was referred to Central Maine Power Co. who said they would send someone out to look at it.

Road Supervisor Keith Hall reported the state of Maine has received funding for road shim, but Windsor was at the bottom of the list. Hall is going to talk to the Maine Department of Transportation about Route 105 and what can be done before winter.

In other business, Haskell noted that the town will need to renew three existing junkyard permits and wanted to know if the select board wanted to hold a public hearing. The select board decided that since they are existing junkyard permits and nothing has changed, and they have received no complaints, there is no need to hold a public hearing.

Select board member Richard H. Gray Jr., was absent from the meeting and Ronald F. Brann arrived at 6:25 p.m.

Sheepscot Lake Association end of season report (2022)

by Maria O’Rourke
SLA President

The Sheepscot Lake Association has been busy throughout the season working to help keep our beloved lake as healthy as it can be. The Courtesy Boat Inspection Program had a busy and successful season inspecting boats at the impressive new boat launch at the Fish and Game Club. The three inspectors (two steady and one alternate) worked weekend shifts checking boats both entering and leaving the lake for invasive plants and other species. With 178 inspections conducted, no invasive plants/species were found. This is an important program, not only to keep unwanted non-native species from entering the lake, but also for the educational aspect. The inspectors not only check for plants, but inform boaters of the importance of doing so while demonstrating how it is done. This is imperative as the inspectors are not always at the launch and when they are not present we hope to encourage self-inspections. We all play a part in keeping Sheepscot the healthy lake that it is! Thank you to our 2022 inspectors, Wyatt McKenney, Alex Reitchel, and Brody Worth on an outstanding job!

Another program that helps to keep the lake healthy is our LakeSmart program. After being dormant for a number of years, our LakeSmart “team” is now up and running again and looking forward to conducting more evaluations in 2023! LakeSmart is run by the Maine Lakes Society in conjunction with Lake Associations throughout the state. Homeowners who are interested in helping stop erosion on their properties can sign up for an evaluation to determine the property’s LakeSmart status. Our team will come to your property to conduct an evaluation determining the extent, if any, of erosion and the “best practices” suggested to combat it, including planting natural vegetation, constructing appropriate walking paths, and diverting rainwater runoff. An extensive checklist is adhered to, established by Maine Lakes, and then the evaluation is sent to them for official review. If your property is determined to be LakeSmart you will be awarded a plaque in recognition, but more importantly you will know you are doing all you can to help keep the lake healthy. That is the best reward we could all wish to receive! Please email us at sheepscotlakeassoc@gmail.com if you are interested in having your property evaluated for LakeSmart status in 2023. The water quality team has been conducting water testing bi-weekly throughout the summer.

Water is tested for its clarity, dissolved oxygen levels from the surface down to the deepest part of the lake, and phosphorus levels, and then sent off to Augusta DEP for evaluation/results. So far this summer we have been getting great results and the numbers indicate that Sheepscot is a healthy and vibrant lake. The latest testing was done the first week of September. Using the Secchi disk, testers were able to see more than 6 meters down from the surface! In comparison, another local waterbody with serious algae blooms has less than 2 meters of water clarity, so the 6+meter reading indicates a healthy lake. SLA held two events this year. Our annual boat parade was held on July 4, with over 32 boats participating, our best parade yet. The SLA annual general membership meeting occurred in July with good attendance. If you were present, thank you for coming! If you were unable to attend, we hope that you can join us next year. It is a great way to hear about our programs, sign up to help with any that interest you, purchase some of our merchandise or a raffle ticket, vote for our new slate of board members, and renew your membership. If you were unable to attend and would like to renew your membership, or join the association, you can do so by going to our website at https://sheepscotlakeassociation.com/. This year our guest speaker was Matt Scott from the Lake Stewards of Maine who discussed our water quality, what constitutes a healthy lake, and the issue of PFAS.

PFAS are man-made chemicals known as per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances. They are a byproduct of plastics that resist degradation to the extreme that they are referred to as “forever chemicals.” They are linked to a number of health problems, and they are showing up in well water and in food supply around the world. PFAS have become an issue in several townships in Maine, including ours. We have been able to have the lake tested for PFAS and our lake water is considered clean with a PFOA (Perfluorooctanoic acid) reading of 1 ppt (parts per trillion), below which the EPA considers the minimum reporting level threshold of 4 for presence of PFAS. This is outstanding and further emphasizes the health of Sheepscot Lake! You can learn more about PFAS by reading the article written by Pamela McKenney in The Town Line, as well as on the Town of Palermo website. For further information see the EPA’s guidelines.

This year we launched our SLA online store with two different shirt designs, both offered in many color options in men’s, women’s and children’s sizes as well as a tote bag. If you are interested in supporting our programs while sporting some cool tee shirts please visit the site here: https://www.bonfire.com/store/sheepscot-lake-association/. They make great holiday gifts for all of the lake-lovers in your household! If you are interested in purchasing a hat or visor, please come to our annual meeting next year!

Sheepscot is one of nearly 6,000 lakes and ponds in Maine, but it is certainly number one in our hearts. Keeping the lake healthy is our goal, and that cannot be done without the help and stewardship from the community – and that means you! Thank you to our members for your support!

Enjoy the fall and we look forward to another wonderful summer season on Sheepscot in 2023.

PHOTO: Winning pumpkin

The China Hannaford store manager Jon Fortier recently took first prize with the largest pumpkin at the Windsor Fair. The pumpkin weighed 1,209 pounds and Jon grew it in his backyard garden in just 57 days. (photo by Eric W. Austin)