SCORES & OUTDOORS: “Tis the season for ‘giant mosquitoes’

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Crane fly

Roland D. Halleeby Roland D. Hallee

Have you ever gone to bed on a warm summer night, and seen this thing flying around that resembles a large mosquito?

It happens to me all the time at camp.

Sitting up in bed, grabbing the book I’m reading, or possibly a magazine for some light and quick reading. And, there it is, buzzing around the light, and becoming extremely annoying. It looks like a giant mosquito.

One of my relatives recently posted a photo on Facebook of that exact same insect on her arm. In the posting, she notes, “it’s a good thing I’m not afraid of spiders.” Wait a minute, this insect has six legs. All arachnids have eight legs. That is not a spider.

Well, I quickly fired off an email to my biologist contact at the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, along with the photo. It didn’t take long to receive a reply.

His response was, “this is a cranefly, a true fly in the order Diptera, and probably from the family Tipulidae. There are over 1,500 species of Craneflies in North America and possibly several hundred in Maine. The adults are harmless, some species not feeding at all, and some species feeding predominantly on nectar.”

In colloquial speech, the cranefly is sometimes called Daddy Longlegs, a term also used to describe opiliones, or harvestmen, both of which are arachnids. The larvae of the cranefly are known commonly as leatherjackets.

Craneflies are found worldwide, though individual species usually have limited ranges.

The adult crane fly, like mentioned earlier, resembles an oversized mosquito, and has stilt-like legs that are deciduous, easily coming off the body.

The adult female usually contains mature eggs as she emerges from her pupa, and often mates immediately if a male is available. Adult craneflies have a lifespan of 10 – 15 days. Cranefly larvae (leatherjackets) have been observed in many habitat types on dry land and in water. They are cylindrical in shape, but taper toward the front end, and the head capsule is often retracted into the thorax. Larvae may eat algae, microflora, and living or decomposing plant matter, including wood. Some are predatory.

The sole purpose of the adult crane fly is to mate and, for the females, to lay eggs for next spring’s crop of flies. Crane flies are harmless to handle, so the next time one makes its way indoors, simply cup it gently to release outdoors. Think of it as a romantic gesture.

Some lavae species consume some living aquatic insects and invertabrates, which could potentially include mosquito larvae. Many, however, because of their short lifespan, never eat at all.

Numerous other common names have been applied to the crane fly. Many of the names are more or less regional in the U.S., including mosquito hawk, mosquito eater, gallinipper, and gollywhopper.

There are other misconceptions about the crane fly.

There is an enduring urban legend that crane flies are the most venomous insects in the world, but have no ability to administer the venom; this is not true. The myth likely arose due to their being confused with the cellar spider as they are also informally called “daddy longlegs”, and although the arachnid does possess venom, it is not especially potent.

Despite widely held beliefs that adult crane flies prey on mosquito populations, the adult crane fly is anatomically incapable of killing or consuming other insects.

Crane flies are generally thought as agricultural pests. Since the late 1900s they have become invasive in the United States. The larvae have been observed on many crops, including vegetables, fruits, cereals, pasture, lawn grasses and ornamental plants.

Should you kill crane flies? Adult crane flies are harmless and do not feed on blood. However, crane fly larva, known as leatherjackets, can cause damage to your lawn. You can kill the flies immediately with an insecticide or you can take preventative measures by killing their larva.

First, you must use home remedies with essential oils to prevent adult crane flies. It will also prevent them from laying their eggs in your garden or lawn. There are many essential oils that you can use to make your treatment, the most common being lavender, and peppermint oil.

It is harmless to humans, can be a nuisance to agriculture, but I wish it would stop reading over my shoulder.

Roland’s trivia question of the week:

How many Major League baseball teams are there in California?

Answer can be found here.

Roland’s Trivia Question for Thursday, June 30, 2022

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Trivia QuestionsHow many Major League baseball teams are there in California?

Answer:

Five. San Diego Padres, Los Angeles Angels, Los Angeles Dodgers, San Francisco Giants, Oakland A’s.

LETTERS: Announces candidacy

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To the editor:

My name is Stephen J. Hemenway, a retired Deputy Sheriff of 32 years, currently living in Northport, producing a national family educational public access tv show called The Children’s Corner, which is also on Youtube. I decided a few months back to leave my little retirement “safe zone,” and run for State House Representative for District #39. Why would I do such a thing?

It wasn’t the 2019 expansion of renewable energy laws that are currently devastating miles of woods with toxic and caustic solar panels or the now current LD2003 law that allows developers to build low income housing, aka “projects”, in the suburbs. It was the 2021 law, LD864, that takes away the rights of parents and guardians to watch and listen to what’s being taught to their children when being taught at home over the internet, ie: “remote instruction.”

Parents and guardians are “not authorized” to watch, listen or record the instruction and are only “authorized” to help the child gain access to the instruction, per this law. This law was sponsored by my opponent, Jan Dodge, the current Representative for District #39. She supported everything else I mentioned above as well. It is imperative that all voters know what their representatives are doing in the House before they vote! I do not support Jan Dodge and hope to win this seat this November 8.

Stephen J. Hemenway
Northport

Vassalboro school board elects new chairman

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Vassalboro Community School (contributed photo)

by Mary Grow

Vassalboro School Board members began their June 21 meeting by electing Jolene Gamage chairman, succeeding Kevin Levasseur, with Jessica Clark vice chairman, and proceeded through routine business.

Superintendent Alan Pfeiffer reported the 2021-22 year ended well, with field trips, a student concert and the annual eighth-grade promotion ceremony. He thanked all the staff, including the new substitute teachers who made in-school classes possible; the parent-teacher association; and everyone else who made a difficult year successful.

Pfeiffer said summer plans include hiring new people to fill staff vacancies and the usual building maintenance, which will feature interior painting. Board members unanimously gave him authority to issue contracts to new personnel from June 22 through Sept. 15.

Speaking for finance director Paula Pooler, Pfeiffer said the Vassalboro school department will end the fiscal year on June 30 with the budget in the black. The exact amount to be carried forward won’t be known until final bills are paid.

Board members approved the proposed 2022-23 school calendar, which has classes beginning Sept. 1. The calendar is on the school’s website, vcsvikings.org.

The website says summer school begins June 27, and from June 27 through Aug. 19 Vassalboro Community School will offer free lunches to residents under 21 years old. Hours are 11 to 11:20 a.m., Monday through Friday, except July 4.

The Vassalboro School Board will not meet in July; the next meeting is scheduled for 6 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 16. It will be preceded by a workshop beginning at 5 p.m.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, June 30, 2022

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BEVERLY A. OLSEN

BENTON – Beverly Ann (Duguay) (Bernatchez) Olsen, 79, of Benton, passed away peacefully, after an unexpected medical event, on Saturday, May 21, 2022. She was born on November 15, 1942, in Waterville, and was the daughter of Isidore “Duke” and Marie Bertha (Gignac) Duguay.

She grew up in Winslow and graduated from Winslow High School, class of 1960. She worked for Keyes Fibre Company, C.F. Hathaway Company, both in Waterville, and then went back to school, graduating from Central Beauty School in Augusta, class of 1985. She taught cosmetology at Pierre’s School of Cosmetology, in Waterville; worked at Concourse Beauty Salon and Dianne’s Family Hairstyles before opening her own salon, Bev’s Hair Design, in Winslow. She later opened another salon, in Fairfield, Casual Cuts. In the ‘70s she sang in the Homeward Bound Band, and they played all around Central Maine.

She loved her family, her friends, and many of her customers became her friends. She was a “mother” to many people and was always one to help others, taking in many friends over the years. She was the type of person that would give the shirt off her back. She loved having family around, cooking for them; crepes, whoopee pies, spaghetti and “frog soup,” were some of her specialties; taking us sledding and skating when we were growing up; playing the music loud, singing and laughing; making jewelry; cheering us on as kids, and later, the grandchildren, and great grandchildren, at their sporting events.

She was predeceased by her parents; and her sister, Carol Knapp.

She is survived by her sons, Gregory (Terrie Laweryson) Bernatchez, Gary Bernatchez and Glenn (Mary) Bernatchez; her daughter, Kelly (Guy) Lawrence; stepdaughters, Tammy (Dan) Pomerleau, Debbie (Steve) Otis and Sonya Jackson; grandchildren, “Grammy’s Angels”, Zachary (Tiffany) Bernatchez, Samantha Bernatchez, Brock (Kayla) Lawrence, Alexa (Orlando) Holmes, Ashley (PJ Gombos) Bernatchez, Paige (Keron) Brown, Lucas (Holly Hacskaylo) Lawrence, Adam (Mariena Bragg) Bernatchez, and Nick (Bridgette) Carter; great-grandchildren, Aubrey Cruz, Maveryk and Raina Gombos, Colten and Cara Holmes, Cole and Cade Lawrence, Emric and Kiana Brown, Brantley Carter, Kane Bernatchez, Gracie, Madden and Charlotte Lagasse; brothers, Al (Patty) Duguay and Joe (Gretchen) Duguay.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 3 p.m., Saturday, July 9, 2022, at the MacCrillis-Rousseau Winslow VFW, 175 Veterans Drive, Winslow, Maine. All friends and family are welcome.

Arrangements are by Mid Maine Cremation Services (207)453-6006

PATRICIA A. FISHER

WATERVILLE – Patricia Ann (Bowman) Fisher, 75, passed away on Tuesday, May 24, 2022. Patricia was born in Waterville in 1947, graduated high school in 1967, and married the love of her life in 1973.

She was preceded in death by her mother and father Merle and Loretta; and her brothers Merle Jr. and Bill Bowman.

She is survived by her husband, John; daughters Dawn and Michelle; grandchildren Lindsey, Austin, Kolby and Tristen; great-grandchildren Brock and Bowen; and her brother, Harold; niece, Tracy; and great-niece, Taylor.

Services will be held at the Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 143 Blue Star Ave., Augusta, on Monday, August 1, at 10 a.m.

MARIA L. SHANNON

CLINTON – Maria Louise Shannon, 58, passed peacefully in her sleep on Monday, May 30, 2022. Maria was born in Independence, Missouri, September 8, 1958, daughter to Joyce Estes and Bruce Keane.

Maria graduated from Lawrence High School, in Fairfield.

Maria worked for years and eventually became a homemaker with multiple hobbies, including her plants. She was known for caring for everyone like they were her own and all were accepted as family.

Maria was predeceased by her parents; multiple siblings; and her best friend.

Maria is survived by her husband, Ronald Shannon; her children, Wendy, Michelle, and Rose; her grandchildren, Brian, Victoria, Emanuel, and Phillip; many sisters, brothers, and in-laws, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

A Celebration of Life will be held, a small family affair, to be determined at a future date as some need to travel.

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.

RUTH E. JONES

WINDSOR – Ruth E. Jones, 92, of Windsor, died Friday, June 3, 2022, at the Alfond Center for Health, in Augusta. She was born in Gardiner on December 29, 1929, the daughter of Earl and Rose (Goodwin) Drisko.

She graduated from Gardiner High School in 1948.

After working for Gardiner Shoe Company for several years she went on the attend Central Beauty School. Upon graduation she opened the Cut and Curl beauty salon in Farmingdale. She ended her working career with 20 years of service.

Ruth was a talented seamstress who enjoyed working on projects for friends and family.

Always active she was a member of NARFE, Whitefield Lions, Stitch and Chat, Young at Heart Senior Citizens, and the Windsor Ladies Aid.

She was predeceased by her husbands, Harry Stonier Jr. and George E. Jones III; son David Stonier; daughter Kathy Bryant; sister Thelma Boudway; brothers Bert and Kenneth Drisko; stepsons Gary and Dana Jones.

She is survived by stepchildren Judith Crosby, of Camden, and Gregory (Julie) Jones, of Boston; daughters-in-law Sandra Jones, of Chelsea, and Margaret Jones, of Raymond; nephews Dennis and Frank Boudway, of San Diego, California; and niece Tamara Girsch, of El Cajon, California.

Ruth was a member of the Winter Street Baptist Church, in Gardiner, for 83 years, and a memorial service will be held there on Monday, June 27, 2022, at 11 a.m., with burial to follow at the Maine Avenue Cemetery, in Farmingdale.

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.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her memory to Winter Street Baptist Church, or the Kennebec Valley Humane Society.

STACY L. BUZBY-KNOWLTON

FAIRFIELD – Stacy Lee Buzby-Knowlton, 38, passed away unexpectedly at her home in Fairfield, on Wednesday June 15, 2022. Stacy was born in Augusta, on May 15, 1984, to Cynthia Buzby and Luroy Peabody, Jr.

Stacy was a graduate of Messalonskee High School, in Oakland, class of 2003. Stacy thrived in the service community serving at Snow Pond Residential Care Center, KMD McDonald’s, and most recently at the dining halls at Colby College, both in Waterville.

Animals of all kinds were Stacy’s passion. From snakes to rats, rabbits, and dogs, she loved each and every one dearly. Her quick-wit and sense of humor will be missed. Her ability to make others smile is a quality others can only dream of having.

Stacy was predeceased by her mother, Cynthia Buzby; her son, Triten Knowlton; as well as her grandparents, Philip, and Arlena Colins.

She is survived by her adoptive father, Robert Buzby; her birth father Luroy Peabody; her sisters and brothers-in-law, Jaime and Ian Hanks and Vanessa and Jeffrey Glazier; sisters Winnie Buzby and Amanda Buzby; and brother and sister-in-law Roger and Sarah Buzby; nieces, Karina, Autumn, Winter and Lyseara; and nephews, Tallon and Matrim.

A graveside service was held on Tuesday, June 28, at Lewis Cemetery, at 51 Cottle Road, in Oakland.

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 can be made in honor of Stacy to the Humane Society Waterville Area, 100 Webb Rd., Waterville, ME 04901

BERNARD DOYON

OAKLAND – Bernard Doyon, 74, passed away on Wednesday, June 15, 2022, due to complications from Type One Diabetes. Bernie was born in Waterville, April 18, 1948, the ninth of 10 children, to Lionel and Izella (Roy) Doyon.

He graduated from Waterville Senior High School in 1968. He married Collette Guite in 1990 and they enjoyed 32 wonderful years together. He was a hard worker in the paper industry for many years until his retirement.

He and Collette had numerous business adventures together, rental properties, real estate, storage units and a small restaurant in Oakland called “The Dawg House”. Bernie’s final years were spent living between Maine and Florida where he enjoyed rest and relaxation in the sunshine and any pool he could find. A true life of leisure.

Bernie was preceded in death by his parents and his daughter Jennifer Doyon, six brothers, Lawrence, Laurier, Leon, Gustave (Sharkey), Richard and Robert (Bobby) and his sister Irene Kidwell.

Surviving him are his wife; his son Joseph Doyon; his sister Yvette Bard; brother Armand Doyon; two stepsons Winter Guite, Honore Guite and wife Christie and their children Owen, Gus and Ava, all of Rome; plus many extended family members.

Per his request, there will be no funeral service, however, the family would like you to join them at a reception in his honor at the American Legion Hall, 22 Church Street, in Oakland, on Saturday, July 9, 2022, from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Arrangements are in the care of Wheeler Funeral Home, 26 Church St., Oakland, where condolences may be shared with the family on the obituary page of the website at http://www.lawrybrothers.com.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to a charity of your choosing.

WILLIAM L. KELLY

WATERVILLE – William L. Kelly, 46, of Waterville, passed away on Saturday, June 18, 2022, at Maine­General Medical Center, in Augusta, following a brief illness. He was born Nov­ember 8, 1975. He liked to be called “Bill” and was nicknamed “Billy” by many family members.

Billy previously worked at Valley Distributers and as a CNA at Lakewood, in Waterville. Billy loved spending time with his family and loved the Lord. His favorite prayer was the Our Father spoken by Jesus in Matthew 6:9-13.

He loved watching movies. His favorite TV shows were 24 and Game of Thrones. He enjoyed watching the Marvel franchise movies. Bill went on frequent coffee runs with his sister Amanda and enjoyed walking his friend Freddie’s dog, Butter. He loved music. Growing up he especially liked ‘90s rock. He would often play the guitar riff at the beginning of Guns N Roses’ Sweet Child of Mine song, which he learned by ear.

He was predeceased by his grandparents, Elwood R. Folsom and Evelyn Folsom; and his parents, Langdon G. Kelly and Elizabeth E. Fisher.

He is survived by his brother, Scott A. Fisher; his sister, Amanda M. Kelly; his girlfriend, Linda Robbins; his uncles and aunts, Paul and Diane Mushero, Alfred and Shirley Kelly, and Wanda Ballew and their families.

A graveside ceremony will be held at a later date. Donations can be made to Mid-Maine Homeless Shelter and Services, 19 Colby St., Waterville, ME 04901.

ROBERT L. SPAULDING

FROSTPROOF, Florida – Robert “Bob” L. Spaulding, 76, formerly from Benton, passed away Saturday, June 18, 2022, at HCA Florida Highlands Hospital, Sebring, Florida. He was born in Waterville, May 2, 1946, to Lloyd and Beulah (Richards) Spaulding.

He graduated from Lawrence High School, in Fairfield, in 1964 then served in the U.S. Army. Prior to retirement he was employed as an automobile mechanic at various businesses.

Bob was very well liked by his Florida neighbors, was considered the neighborhood handyman, keeping lawns mowed and doing any job that the neighbors needed assistance with.

He was predeceased by his parents; sister Carolyn Palmer; grandchildren Samantha Cuff and Jasper Turner; and great-granddaughter Evelyn Grace Wakefield.

He is survived by his sons Scott and Brian Spaulding; grandchildren Samantha Linder, Benjamin Linder, Sarah Spaulding, Sabrina Spaulding, Brianna Benallie, Elijah Turner, Christian (Amber) Richards, Colin Richards, Mykayla (Sean) Brennan and Lex Turner; 11 great-grandchildren; brother-in-law Albert Palmer; sisters Beverly Carter, Sandra Kelleher, Annette (Ronald) Hood and brother David (Kristina) Spaulding; and many cousins, nieces and nephews.

RACHEL E. BOURQUE

CHINA – Rachel A. (Weston) Bourque, 86, passed away Sunday, June 19, 2022, at her home, in China. She was born January 5, 1936, in Mount Vernon, the daughter of Charles and Gladys (Rathey) Weston.

She was a graduate of Williams High School, in Oakland. In 1954, she married Henry Bourque, of Waterville. They moved to their home on China Lake in 1959 and spent their life together there until his death in 2008.

Rachel had been employed by both the C.F. Hathaway Shirt Factory, in Waterville, and the State of Maine Department of Motor Vehicles, retiring in 1998.

She enjoyed the winters that she and Hank spent in Florida. She was a wonderful cook and she loved to play cards. Hank was forever “just trying to make her a better player”. Her family especially enjoyed her holiday treats of pumpkin bars, scotcharoos and “pigs in a blanket”. Other memories were times spent at Moosehead in the summers. She didn’t like to fish, but loved the family times and picking blueberries.

She was predeceased by her parents; sister, Annette Gilman, brother, Clyde Weston, and half-brother, Byron Weston.

She is survived by daughters, Cathy and husband David Brower, Sheila Brockway and husband Dennis, all of Winslow; grandsons, Ryan Gilbert, Mandy and Ella, all of Solon, Damian Brockway and wife Ginny and their children, Nathan and Helen, Mike Brockway and wife Kristy and their children, Brody and Bristol, Brett Brockway and wife Brianna and their son Walker, all of Winslow.

A memorial service was held Thursday, June 23, 2022, at the China Baptist Church, 36 Causeway Road, China, with Pastor Ron Morrell officiating. Committal will follow at St. Francis Cemetery, 78 Grove Street, Waterville.

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

In lieu of flowers, friends wishing may make donations in Rachel’s memory to China Rescue, c/o Town of China Office, 571 Lakeview Drive, China ME 04358 or China Baptist Church, 36 Causeway Road, China ME 04926.

China selectboard hears from heads of two advisory committees

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by Mary Grow

China select board members heard updates from the heads of two advisory committees at their June 21 meeting, and took the actions one requested.

Sheldon Goodine, chairman of the Municipal Building Committee, reported on plans for an addition to the town office, plans that have grown since the committee’s June 9 meeting (see The Town Line, June 16, p. 3).

Goodine shared a sketch of a 34-by-64-foot one-story storage building. At his request, select board members authorized Town Manager Rebecca Hapgood to find an engineer or architect to draft a more formal plan.

Hapgood said the person hired could be paid from the current year’s contingency fund, which has about $23,000 unspent that could be carried forward after the June 30 end of the fiscal year.

Board members also appointed two new members to the Municipal Building Committee, as Goodine requested. Edwin Bailey and Dennis Simmons were appointed until June 30, and later in the meeting reappointed for fiscal year 2022-23, with many other volunteers and appointed officials whose terms end June 30.

Goodine gave board members his opinion that the former portable classroom, used for committee meetings, voting, weekly senior citizen gatherings and other events, is unlikely to last more than another three or four years.

He proposed making the new addition two stories instead of one, on a foundation instead of a slab, with a meeting room on the second floor, made handicapped accessible by a stair lift. An alternative would be a new building to replace the portable classroom.

Hapgood said the portable classroom is too small for voting, given the number of booths required for a town with China’s population. She urged select board members to consider the need for meeting space as they discuss a new building or addition.

Later in the meeting, Hapgood shared results of the June 14 straw poll on the format for the annual town business meeting: of 275 residents who answered (660 came to the polls), 162 preferred an open town meeting and 111 preferred a written ballot. One requested both options; another recommended select board members make decisions – like a town council, Hapgood commented.

Select board members left open what plan or plans the engineer or architect will be asked to work with, waiting to get a cost estimate for his or her work.

The second June 21 report was from Robert O’Connor, chairman of the China Broadband Committee (CBC). He brought select board members up to date on negotiations for phased expansion of broadband service in China in cooperation with Direct Communications of Rockland, Idaho, through its subsidiary, Unitel of Unity, Maine (see The Town Line, June 23, p. 3).

O’Connor outlined a proposal to spend almost $1.2 million to extend service to underserved and unserved China homes, using a state grant, China Tax Increment Financing funds, money from Direct Communications and perhaps other grants and American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) money.

He said he is likely to return to the select board’s July 5 meeting to ask members to sign a memorandum of understanding with Unitel representatives.

An accompanying map showed that many of the underserved and unserved homes are at the ends of fire roads along the lake and dead-end roads in the backlands. Select board member Wayne Chadwick objected to town funds providing broadband service to those residents; they had to pay for their own electric lines, if they have them, so he believes they should pay for broadband service, if they want it.

One problem CBC members encountered is that the accuracy of the map is doubtful, and an accurate map is necessary to apply for a state grant. O’Connor said he is waiting to hear from the Maine Connectivity Authority about mapping, and about the schedule for the next round of grants.

Chadwick did approve of a new proposed expenditure of ARPA funds – in fact, select board chairman Ronald Breton said, he suggested it. Labeled “Senior Citizens Fuel Support Fund,” as drafted it would “be used to help offset a senior resident’s fuel (electricity, propane, oil) bill up to $500” between Nov. 1, 2022, and April 1, 2023 “or until funding runs out.”

The idea is to make a very simple process by which someone who is over 65 and has lived in China for at least a year could get help with fuel prices next winter. The draft proposal has no income requirement – deliberately, Chadwick said, to avoid limiting the aid to people who are accustomed to filling out financial aid forms.

Breton, Jeanne Marquis and Janet Preston all thought there should be an income cap. Chadwick said he would not object, if the application form were kept simple enough so that people would not be discouraged from signing up.

Preston asked why only senior citizens should benefit. Chadwick replied that families with children have other sources of aid. Preston also pointed out that the proposed expenditure helps for only one year; perhaps a fund to upgrade heating equipment would be more useful.

Whatever select board members decide will be submitted to voters to approve or reject the expenditure. Breton hopes a question can be on the Nov. 8 ballot.

Another debate was over Hapgood’s proposal to have the gravel parking areas at the head of China Lake’s east basin paved. When the causeway project was done, they were deliberately left gravel, because paving was supposed to increase runoff into the muldoon that drains into the lake.

The June 21 argument was over whether the packed gravel also creates run-off, and whether pavement would make the situation better or worse.

Hapgood said pavement would permit striping to guide people parking their boat trailers and would discourage people from doing “donuts” in the gravel. Chadwick and audience member Brent Chesley said the gravel is too compacted to absorb water.

Preston feared increased run-off. China Region Lakes Alliance (CRLA) Executive Director Scott Pierz asked from the audience what run-off control measures could go with the proposed pavement.

Pierz wondered if the CRLA’s Youth Conservation Corps might install a buffer between the parking areas and the water. Hapgood immediately interpreted his question as an offer to have Conservation Corps members do the labor if the town provided materials. She welcomed the idea.

Select board members postponed deciding whether to pave to their special end-of-year meeting, scheduled for 4 p.m. Thursday, June 30. Hapgood said she would like a decision in time to coordinate the project with work planned at the nearby Circle K convenience store and gas station, under a state Department of Environmental Protection permit.

In other business, select board members chose Pierce Works, LLC, of China, to do this year’s roadside mowing. Hapgood said the town’s request for bids drew no response, so she contacted Pierce, the company doing Windsor’s roadsides.

Select board members left it up to Hapgood and Director of Public Services Shawn Reed to decide whether China needs one or two mowings. The price, Hapgood said, would be $3,995 for a single mowing or $7,990 for two mowings, with roadside brush clearing extra.

Board members approved a long list of appointments for the fiscal year beginning July 1. Hapgood said all are reappointments except the addition of David Savage, Oakland’s codes enforcement officer, as China’s building inspector. Hapgood is serving as China’s interim codes officer and plumbing inspector.

After the June 30 special meeting, the next regular China select board meeting will be Tuesday evening, July 5, again moved a day to avoid a Monday holiday. On June 30, the town office will close at noon so staff can finish end-of-fiscal-year business.

Red Cross asks for donations

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The American Red Cross sees a pretty big decline in blood and platelet donations during holiday weeks – around 21 percent. When blood donations drop, so does the availability of blood products for hospital patients. Donors can help ensure blood is ready when needed by making an appointment to give in the coming weeks.

As a thank you for helping, all who come to give June 30-July 10 will receive an exclusive Red Cross recycled cotton tote bag, while supplies last.

VASSALBORO: Redmond to head select board; church scheduled for demolition

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Razing scheduled for July 13. (The Town Line file photo)

by Mary Grow

At newly-elected Vassalboro select board member Frederick “Rick” Denico, Jr.’s first meeting June 23, he and Chris French promptly and unanimously elected Barbara Redmond, senior member of the board, as the new chairman.

Discussion at the lengthy meeting covered planned demolition of the condemned former church building on Priest Hill Road in North Vassalboro; improvements at the transfer station; and end-of-fiscal-year matters, including appointments to town positions for the new fiscal year that begins July 1.

Town Manager Mary Sabins said she has agreed with Mickey Wing, of Casella Waste Management, that his company will demolish the former church, in North Vassalboro, on Wednesday, July 13, and remove the debris, for $14,500.

An order to property owner Chad Caron, prepared by town attorney Kristin Collins and served on June 23, told Caron that any personal property he does not take away before July 13 will be removed. A camper and four vehicles in the yard will also be removed if they are in the way of the demolition, and Caron will be billed for removal and storage.

Sabins said she asked Road Commissioner Eugene Field to block off the lower section of Priest Hill Road for as long as necessary on July 13. Police Chief Mark Brown plans to be present, probably accompanied by a deputy sheriff.

Audience members pointed out dangerous situations on the property. Sabins said she would pass on their information to Wing.

Board members also discussed a non-agenda item, water companies in town, at the instigation of resident Marshall Crandall.

Crandall said Kennebec Water District and the East Vassalboro Water Company are taking up space, limiting use of waterfront property, banning swimming in China Lake’s east basin and generally preventing residents from enjoying a premier natural resource.

He did not expect select board members to do anything about it; he wanted townspeople to get more control, specifically over the East Vassalboro Water Company that serves his household.

Company President Donald Robbins said the company is for sale. He offered two suggestions: a group or individual investor could buy it, with Public Utilities Commission approval (“it’s a good investment,” he said); or customers could band together to create an association or a water district chartered by the Maine legislature. Crandall said he had already spoken with state representative Richard Bradstreet.

Select board members took no action.

Nor did they make a decision on providing a cover for the new compactor at the transfer station. They asked station manager George Hamar to develop some concepts, and agreed to carry forward money left over from improvements made in 2022 into the new fiscal year.

Sabins presented a long list of appointments to town boards and committees, plus herself as town manager and to three other positions and Ellery Bane as town assessor. Most are re-appointments.

There is a vacancy on the planning board, Sabins said; Betsy Poulin has resigned, Paul Mitnik will be moved from alternate member to full member and a new alternate is needed. Three people have expressed interest.

Board members talked about whether they should have candidates fill out applications, or interview the candidates, or both; and about how the present planning board members should be involved in the selection. They decided to ask the current members to review the candidates and afterwards consider what, if anything, select board members should do.

Recreation committee member Melissa Olson said two members of that committee do not want to continue, and Ryan Reed is interested. With these and a few other changes, select board members approve the list, with thanks to the many residents willing to volunteer.

Sabins said she has had three inquiries, one very promising, about the newly-created staff position of program director, to coordinate recreation and related programs.

At the June 14 balloting, 239 voters in a straw poll told select board members they would like to see a new town ordinance to govern commercial solar development; 58 voters said no to the idea. French has collected other towns’ ordinances as guides, and hopes the board will have a Vassalboro ordinance ready to submit to voters on Nov. 8.

The next regular Vassalboro select board meeting is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Thursday, July 14.

Erskine Academy’s Paige Reed named America’s Most Spirited Student for 2022

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Paige Reed, front, surrounded by cheerleading coaches, from left to right, Tarsha Donar, Julie Wing and Amy Rau. (contributed photo)

Submitted by Amy Rau

Varsity Brands, the national driving force behind cheerleading’s transformation into the high-energy, athletic activity it is today, has named Erskine Academy senior Paige Reed America’s Most Spirited Student for 2022. The award program celebrates schools, organizations, and individuals that go above and beyond to build school pride, student engagement, and community spirit, and carries with it a $3,000 cash prize.

Reed’s classmates voted her as “most school spirited” earlier in the year, recognizing her love for Erskine Academy and its community of students, faculty, and staff.

Reed, of Vassalboro, was nominated for Varsity Brands’ award by her cheerleading coaches Amy Rau and Julie Wing, and her school advisor Shara MacDonald. The nominators penned the required 500-word essay, solicited letters of recommendation, and gathered “spirited photos” of Reed in action.

On June 1, Reed joined other finalists from across the country for a virtual awards presentation, viewed by Rau, Wing, and MacDonald, who were anxiously awaiting results. The three fought back the tears when hearing Reed named Varsity Brands’ Most Spirited Student in America, and accepting the award on her behalf, as she could not accept it while recovering from a stem cell transplant as part of her battle with a second bout of leukemia. Early in the school year and following a 12-year remission, the Reed family and Erskine community were shocked yet united by the resurgence of leukemia affecting Paige. Subsequently, Reed endured several months of chemotherapy, lumbar punctures, and stem cell transplant with cells donated by her hero brother, Seth.

Paige and her journey, entitled Paige Power, became well known by the outpouring of support and good will through fundraisers, benefits, and gatherings, particularly within the cheerleading and basketball communities, all worthy yet bittersweet. “It is a welcome change to be in the news at this time to celebrate the positive for Paige,” said cheerleading coach and nominator Rau.

Paige is currently home from Boston and recovering well. Coach Wing was able to Facetime her about the award, and with the news, she was back to her sassy, fierce teenage self. The entire EA community cannot wait until she is well enough for visitors and when she returns to her friends and teachers in her special and favorite place, Erskine Academy.

Nathaniel Lombardi captures grand championship title

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Nathaniel Lombardi

by Mark Huard

Nathaniel Lombardi is a long time student of Huards Martial Arts. He has achieved a third degree black belt in karate and jujitsu at the school. Lombardi is no stranger to the competition scene, as a veteran member of the Huard’s Sport Karate Team. He has travelled throughout Maine and New England competing in weapons forms, open hand forms and fighting.

On Saturday, June 18, Lombardi traveled down to Gorham to attend the Friendship Tournament. This is only the third tournament Lombardi has attended since the pandemic, which ended the tournament seasons for two years. Local tournaments depend upon volunteer black belts to judge and guide the under belts, and Lombardi did his part by sitting as a corner judge prior to his own competition.

The first event for Lombardi was the weapons division. He picked up his trusty nunchucks and worked his way to fourth out of eleven competitors ages 18-29. He went on to improve his performance in his kata division, finishing third amongst the other highly trained martial artists.

Lombardi’s third division of the day was kumite, or point fighting. The objective of this division is to score five points first by landing a kick or a punch on their opponent to specific areas (light contact to the face, side of the head, chest, stomach and sides). Lombardi says prior to the event, he visualized throwing and landing his techniques on his opponents. This is a technique that helps attain focus and grounds competitors. The division was filled with many men that focus solely on this style of fighting and are extremely fast and agile.

Lombardi knew that he needed to bring his “A” game and win this division so he would have the opportunity to compete in the Grands. He had several fights in the 18-29 division, and managed to capture first in a couple of back and forth battles. He went on to compete with older age divisions and was able to capture the overall Men’s Fighting Grand Championships. He fought many veteran fighters who have competed for years, and have many tricks of the trade that they utilized against the younger Lombardi. He displayed his stamina and athleticism throughout the rounds, and came out victorious. Lombardi works out consistently in the dojo and additionally in the gym to always stay competition ready.

Lombardi credits his instructors and training partners at Huard’s for his successes and was pleased to demonstrate his skill sets to be a role model for the next generation of Martial artists.

He is also a first responder as an emergency medical technician. He works long hours and stills finds the time to devote to his training. Those that know Lombardi credit his discipline, integrity and commitment to himself and his team.