LETTERS: Renewed appeal for litter-free roads

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To the editor:

Time for the annual plea to stop littering Lakeview Drive and other China roads. Is there a way to appeal to otherwise thoughtful drivers? Paper and plastic cups, beer and soda cans, paper plates, plastic spoons, plastic bags, napkins, etc? Why not just keep it in the car and dispose of it as you know you should? Car litterbags are easy to come by, you’ll feel better, and it takes less effort than running the window down and tossing stuff out. To the drivers who drink beer while driving, please re-think what you are doing for more important reasons. Hey, it won’t be necessary to get rid of evidence in case you are stopped! Let’s create a litter-free China and give a friendly toot if you see someone walking and picking up litter. Those good deeds are appreciated BUT they won’t solve the problem, all drivers need to be heroes!

Richard Dillenbeck
China

LETTERS: Stover champion of working people

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To the editor:

I had the privilege of driving Rep. Holly Stover as she knocked on doors in South Bristol this week. The experience of riding and chatting informally with Holly and witnessing her interaction with voters only deepened my commitment to this champion of working people.

While I was familiar with the broad strokes of her resume – 23 years working within our state’s Health and Human Services agency, currently executive director of Lincoln County Dental, a small grassroots dental agency that delivers oral health services to those who need them most (and if you’ve ever had a toothache, you understand how critical dental health is to our mental well-being!) and also program director for a Boothbay peninsula-focused addiction outreach council – three hours of lively conversation as we drove from house to house to house only increased my appreciation of her work on behalf of me and my neighbors.

She’s done it all, from dealing with teens at the Lincoln County Group home to bathing elderly adults. She’s been spit on (literally, not figuratively) and she’s developed and helped to implement important state-wide programs that have helped hundreds, if not thousands of Mainers, navigate challenging journeys of substance abuse or difficult, even life-threatening health issues.

As we drove and talked I realized that, always, always, always Holly’s focus has been on making certain that the people of Maine, our neighbors, you, or me, have the best shot at making a decent – not an extravagant, not an unearned – but the best shot at making a decent life for ourselves. And what more can any of us ask? Holly understands and works from the point of view that folks don’t need (and don’t want) a hand-out but that sometimes the best of us needs a “hand-up.”

I urge you to make certain you vote for Rep. Holly Stover in our upcoming June 14 primary election. We need her to continue her service to the people of the Midcoast and all of Maine in Augusta.

Geoff Bates
South Bristol

MY POINT OF VIEW: Let’s not ever forget the importance of D-Day

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by Gary Kennedy

June 6, 1944, five naval assault divisions landed on the shores of Normandy, France. An assault of this magnitude has never been seen in the history of mankind. The landings sites were given code names, Utah, Omaha, Gold, Juno and Sword. The operation itself was given the code name, Operation Overlord. There were 7,000 ships with landing craft manned by over 195,000 naval personnel from the eight allied countries. England, Canada and the USA supplied more than 133,000 troops. During this landing 10,300 troops were casualties of war. By the end of June more than 850,000 men and 570,000 tons of supplies and equipment were involved. Also 148,000 vehicles were used.

Allied forces held the western front and the Russians held the Eastern front. All of Europe was involved. This would be the one time in history that all of Europe was united, and race, ethnicity, color went unnoticed. For me it seems so strange that we are united in war but divided in peace. We should have learned something given this great unity.

There are many brave men and women buried on foreign soil. Although this is sad the burial sites are very well maintained, respected and protected. On May 7, 1945, German General Alfred Jodi signed an unconditional surrender at Reims, France. The President of the United States Franklin D. Roosevelt, on a hand written note, gave total authority for Operation Overlord to General Dwight D. Eisenhower, who would eventually become president of the United States.

World War II actually began on September 1, 1939, when Germany invaded Poland. This horrific war lasted until September 2, 1945; claiming hundreds of thousands lives. Two days later September 3, France and Britain declared war on Germany in defense of Poland. World War II became a global war with Japan and Italy joining Germany and the United States eventually joining when things became tough for the now known allies. Democracy and freedom was the theme and the avoidance of world dominance by an evil dictator, Adolf Hitler. However, if it hadn’t been for the USA we would be looking at a different world today.

So as you can see by going back in history D-Day and Normandy became famous dates, places and events. Once again we must remember our veterans, especially those who gave it all. The greatest sacrifice given for God, country and family is one’s life. I don’t believe any soldier, land, sea or air ever intended to die but were prepared to do so if it became necessary. Older Americans have a family member in their past who perished because of events such as D-Day and its aftermath.

Currently we and the world are on very shaky ground and very close to world conflict, again, yet many of our leaders aren’t paying attention. Some of us see, remember and worry when we see what is happening in our country and around the world. When you start to count your allies it’s time to worry and pay attention to the big picture. If world peace is disrupted again can you count on those around you? Does everyone truly love these United States? Keep freedom in your sights on this D-Day and freedom in your heart. May the good Lord bless and keep you and yours safe and free from another D-Day. God bless America.

Lois Eastman – Ukrainian Folk Art at Gibbs Library

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Gibbs Library in Washington, ME. (photo from: librarything.com)

WASHINGTON, ME — The Gibbs Library will present works of Ukrainian folk art by Lois Eastman, including a display of the process and materials used in creating psyankyi eggs. The exhibit will run through June

Lois Eastman’s interest in art began in childhood. She began making pysanky when she was five years old. Growing up in a household that included her grandparents, she was surrounded by family members engaged in a variety of art forms and Old World traditions. Although her childhood was spent in New Hampshire, she later moved to Newport, Rhode Island, where she established a photography studio. Lois later moved to Maine and enjoyed a 20-year career as a high school art teacher. She now resides in Rockland where she continues to create art.

“I was introduced to making Ukrainian Easter Eggs (pysanky) by my grandmother, who was from the ‘old country’, a small village in the Carpathian Mountains. She told stories about her life there and how she met my grandfather at a village dance in the valley between two mountains.

“Every year before Easter, my mother, aunts, various cousins and I would gather at my grandmother’s kitchen table to make pysanky. We were taught the “pin-drop-pull” technique, which meant to stick a common pin over a candle, dip the hot tip into a cake of beeswax, then drop the tip onto the egg and pull a teardrop shape. A series of teardrops created designs all over the surface of the egg. We could change the color of designs by dipping the eggs into colored dyes, lined up along the shelves in my grandmother’s pantry.

There was a large collection of eggs that had been made over the years. The Ukrainian belief is that as long as pysanky are made, good will overcome evil.

This exhibit can be seen at the Gibbs Library, 40 Old Union Road, Washington. For library hours check the website https://www.gibbslibrary.org/ or call: (207)845-2663.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, June 2, 2022

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DAVID J. PELLERIN

FAIRFIELD – David John Pellerin, 62, of Fairfield, passed away early morning on Monday, May 16, 2022, doing what he loved, fishing up North. David was born in Waterville on May 2, 1960. He was the son of Norman Pellerin and Kathleen Pellerin (Farrell).

He graduated from Lawrence High School, in Fairfield, in 1978, where he excelled in the Waterville Regional Vocational Center.

In his younger years David worked on his parent’s farm as well at the Tupper Farm and Mushero’s Jacking & Moving. He then moved on to SD Warren/SAPPI, in Hinckley. He eventually made his dream come true when he developed Pellerin Excavation.

His true passion was being in the outdoors. When he wasn’t working, he enjoyed trips that involved fishing, hunting, snowmobiling, four wheeling, camping, and spoiling his dogs.

He was predeceased by his parents Norman and Kathleen Pellerin; siblings Tony and Theresa; stepmother Katherine Boucher.

He is survived by his spouse Robin Pellerin (Lilja); children Jeromey House and his wife Michelle Amero; daughter Katherine House; grandchild Daveon Raven; mother-in-law Patricia Lilja; brothers Paul Pellerin, Jeff Pellerin and wife Robin, Donald, Andrew, and wife Leanne; sister Noreen and husband Lew; step-siblings Mark Bureau and wife Amber, Scott Bureau and wife Dee-Dee, and Lisa Smith; as well as several nieces and nephews.

Visiting hours will be at Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 107 Main Street, in Fairfield, on Friday May 27, 2022, from 2 – 4 p.m. and 6 – 8 p.m.

Celebration of life will follow on Saturday, May 28, 2022, at The Victor Grange, in Fairfield Center, beginning at 11 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 can be made to Fairfield Victor Grange. 118 Oakland Rd, Fairfield, ME 04937.

VALIDA C. TILLSON

WINDSOR – Valida C. “Coline” (Crochere) Tillson, 63, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, May 17, 2022, at Eastern Maine Medical Center, Bangor. Coline was born Sep­tember 15, 1958, in Augusta, daughter of the late Normand and Mary (Higgins) Crochere.

She was a resident of Windsor for many years. She was a graduate of Cony High School, in Augusta.

She was the wife to Walter S. Tillson, Jr. with whom she shared 39 years of marriage.

She worked as a housekeeper for many years until her retirement. Over the years Coline babysat many children and was known as “Auntie” to them all. She was a strong believer in second chances if not third, fourth or even fifth chances. She was always willing to help someone if she could and Coline will always be remembered for her out pouring of love and her huge heart.

Valida, known as Coline to most, loved sitting on her deck with coffee in hand watching and talking to her hummingbirds. She also enjoyed summer evenings sitting around the fire with friends and family. Coline was always one for a conversation, she could make friends in the grocery store. She had a love of music, always had the radio on whether in the house or in the car.

Coline treasured the time she spent with her family and friends celebrating holidays and birthdays. She especially loved Christmas, she put the spirit in the holiday, went all out decorating following in the footsteps of her father.

In addition to her husband Walter, Coline is survived by her brothers Lewis Crochere and his wife Barbara and Norman Crochere and his wife Paula; many nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Coline was predeceased by her sister Marie Groleau and her brother Donny Crochere.

Her graveside service was held in Rest Haven Cemetery, Windsor, Wednesday, May 25, 2022.

Arrangements are in the care of the Knowlton and Hewins Funeral Home, 1 Church Street, Augusta.

Memories, condolences, and photos may be shared with the family on the obituary page of our website at http://www.khrfuneralhomes.com.

KENNETH L. LILLY JR.

WATERVILLE – Kenneth L. Lilly Jr., 97, of Waterville, died on Friday, May 20, 2022, at the home of his son in Eliot. He was the son of Kenneth L. (Sr.) and Catherine (Carr) Lilly.

He is survived by his wife, Claranne (Hume) Lilly, of Waterville; son, Kenneth L. Lilly III and wife Jayne, of Eliot; daughter, Katherine and her husband David Dutkiewicz, of Florida; seven grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; a sister, Alice Tobey, of Eliot; a brother-in-law, Andrew Payton Hume, of Veazie; many nieces and nephew.

A graveside service with military honors was held on Wednesday, May 25, 2022, at Brooks Memorial Cemetery, in Eliot.

A full obituary may be viewed and condolences may be left by visiting http://www.jspelkeyfuneralhome.com.

LLOYD MORAN

WATERVILLE – Lloyd Moran, 96, passed away, in Waterville, on Tuesday, April 19, 2022. He was born in Presque Isle and grew up on a potato farm during the Great Depression.

He graduated from Presque Isle High School in 1943. Shortly after graduation Lloyd enlisted in the U.S. Navy during World War II serving as a radioman on the USS Pontus.

After returning home from the war, Lloyd attended Husson College, in Bangor, on the G.I. Bill, graduating in 1948. While at Husson, Lloyd met the love of his life, Esther Page. The two were married in October 1947 and spent 65 years together until Esther’s passing in 2012.

Lloyd and Esther raised their three children, Linda Riccio, of Los Alamitos, California, Janice Moran, of Southbury, Connecticut, and David Moran, of Waterville.

They loved taking trips to visit the grandchildren and great-grandchildren. They especially enjoyed traveling by car having taken several cross-country trips, visiting 46 states along the way.

Lloyd spent his working days in the accounting field, retiring from Augusta Water District in 1990. He was a proud member of the Meridian Chapter of the Grand Lodge of Maine. He spent his leisure time playing golf, watching sports on TV, working in his garden, baking bread, and giving treats to the neighborhood four-legged friends that stopped in to visit while on their walks.

Lloyd was predeceased by his parents; his wife, Esther; and all of their siblings.

Beside their children, Lloyd and Esther are survived by grandchildren Kerry and husband Mark, Kristina and her husband Cecil, Stephanie and her partner Marc, and Melissa with her partner Gwen; great-grandchildren Elena, Aiden, Jonah, and Elliott; and several nieces and nephews.

As per Lloyd and Esther’s request there will be no public service. Lloyd and Esther will be laid to rest together in a private ceremony at Maine Veterans Cemetery, in Augusta.

DARRELL POOLER

OAKLAND – Darrell “Bruce” Pooler, 63, passed away of natural causes on Friday May 13, 2022, at his home. He was born October 5, 1958, the first born child of MaryAnn (Bard) and Irwin H. Pooler.

Bruce attended school in the Messalonskee school system, in Oakland.

Growing up he always had a passion for vehicles and right out of high school took great pride in his personal vehicles, keeping them beautifully maintained and enjoyed showcasing them during an era that meeting on “Main Street” with fellow friends and relatives was a normal Friday night event. He made friends with many who had the same passion and those friendships have lasted a life time.

He was also a huge fan of car racing and in the 1980s followed the extended family tradition of racing at Unity Raceway. Bruce began his successful racing career with a car that he numbered 44 after his mothers age. He was greatly respected by his fans and fellow drivers.

Bruce worked various jobs until his parents opened Middle Road Redemption, in Oakland, where he worked side by side with mom and dad until they retired. He loved chatting with customers and made people feel like they were lifelong friends. He then brought his expertise to share with his brother and best friend Brian, at Trafton Road Redemption. They continued to work together for many years until the Redemption was converted into a store, which recently closed. He was looking forward to his retirement and enjoying the simple things in life like playing the slots, eating out and spending time with family and friends.

Bruce would help anyone who needed it. He helped people from all walks of life and his kindness always turned into lasting relationhips.

He loved his home, his little sanctuary that he took pleasure and great pride in maintaining. After his dads death, he continued this same pride in helping his mother maintain her property next door and looked after her daily needs.

He is predeceased by his father Irwin H. Pooler; his grandparents; and several uncles, aunts and cousins.

Bruce is survived by his mother, MaryAnn Pooler, of Oakland; his daughter Angela Ward and her husband Jamie, of Cannan; his son Derick Inman, his wife Amanda and their three children, of Waterville; brother Brian Pooler and his wife Tami, of Oakland; sister Sonya Ross and her husband Jim, of Norridgewock; and his sister Tammy Roy and her husband Jim, of Oakland; his nephews, Shaine Wilson, Jeremy Witham, Tyler Whitney, Cody Palmer, Dylan Allard, and niece Cheyenne Knights.

Bruce will be greatly missed by all those that loved him.

A celebration of life and a private graveside ceremony will be announced at a later date.

ANTOINE VEILLEUX

AUGUSTA – Antoine “Tony” Veilleux, 94, of Waterville, passed away peacefully of natural causes on Thursday, May 19, 2022. He was born in Waterville on April 7, 1928, the youngest of 16 children of Philomenne and John Veilleux.

Tony enlisted in the Maine State Guard when he was 16 and later honorably discharged. He was very proud of being a lifetime member of the International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers and worked for many years as a bricklayer. He had many friends and relatives throughout the Waterville area and could be seen about town up until his passing on May 19. He loved to talk, he was kind and he loved life.

Tony was predeceased by his wife of many years, Theresa “Pearl” Veilleux, in 2016.

He is survived by his son Thomas Veilleux and his wife Sandra, of Farmington; his grandson, Samuel Veilleux and his wife Sonja Veilleux, of Chicago, Illinois; his granddaughter, Lydia Veilleux and her husband Ryan Leach, of Ambler, Pennsylvania; as well as four great-grandchildren.

At the request of the deceased there will be no services. His final resting place will be next to his wife in St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, in Waterville.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Veilleux and Redington Funeral Home 8 Elm St. Waterville ME 04901, http://www.VeilleuxFuneralHome.com.

PHYLLIS M. DORE

VASSALBORO – Phyllis Marian (Campbell) Dore, 89, of Vassalboro, passed away peacefully at home, in Vassalboro, on Monday, May 16, 2022.

She was a skilled homemaker, a leader among her community peers, a gifted master of fiber arts and a prolific fundraiser for charities throughout her lifetime. A dedicated daughter, wife and mother, she made her homes in Hallowell, Rockland, Connecticut and Vassalboro over her 89 years.

Surviving her are son, Gerald Jr. and his partner Mira Bedo, of Tavernier, Florida; daughter-in-law Diane Dore, of Albuquerque, New Mexico; sons, Robert and his wife Cindy York, of Vassalboro, Richard and his wife Jodi, of Vassalboro; daughter, Peggie Lawrence and her husband Mike, of Fayette; sons, John, of Vassalboro, and William and his wife Tammy, of Chelsea; grandchildren and stepgrands David, Jenny, Beth, Megan, Randy, Nichole, Andy, Danny, Katie, Alexander, Heather, Samantha and Mindy.

Phyllis was predeceased by Jerry, her husband of 60 years, and by son, Stephen.

Friends and family are encouraged to gather for a graveside service on Saturday, June 4, 2022, at 1 p.m., at the Cross Hill Cemetery, in Vassalboro.

To read Phyllis’ full obituary, please visit http://www.plummerfh.com.

In lieu of flowers, please consider supporting this group in Phyllis’ memory; more information about them is here: https://northernlighthealth.org/Our-System/Home-Care-and-Hospice/About-Us/Ways-To-Give.

JACQUELINE A. HAPWORTH

OAKLAND – Jacqueline A. Hapworth, 83, of Oakland, passed away Sunday, May 22, 2022. Jackie was born in Fair­field on Dec­ember 19,1938, the daughter of Alnora B. Ronco (Columbus) and Edward A. Ronco.

Jackie was raised in Fairfield and all her years of school were completed through Fairfield school district.

Jackie was a proud, hardworking dairy farmer for over 30 years on her family farm, Happy Acres Dairy, where she cherished working with her four children, Patti, Cindy, Billy, and Howard; her husband, Ernest, and her grandson, Jason. Jackie and her family were known for always lending a hand to anyone in need of help and for taking in several hardworking farmhands over the years who became like family.

Jackie also enjoyed working for a few years at Gene’s Market, in Fairfield Center, meeting some lifelong friends along the way.

Jackie was a very social person who enjoyed meeting friends daily for years for coffee/breakfast. She really enjoyed visiting with family and friends no matter the time of day or night. Jackie also enjoyed sewing, cooking, baking, camping and many more hobbies. When anyone would ask Jackie how come she smiles so much she would always answer with, “I have a lot to smile about.” Most of all, Jackie was grateful for the years she was able to spend watching her great-granddaughter, Izabella, grow up.

Jackie cherished each day and loved being surrounded by family and friends and enjoyed having coffee and a chat. She had many friendships over the years and no matter the distance or time between, most lasted a lifetime including the Breakfast Club at Truckers, then Purple Cow, both in Fairfield, and so on.

Jackie loved all dog breeds and had many over the years, but her favorite remained the German Shepherd.

Jackie was predeceased by her parents Alnora B. Ronco and Edward A. Ronco; her husband, William E. Hapworth, Sr.; her daughter-in-law, Dee Hapworth; her sister-in-law, Kathleen Powers; her nephew, Howard Powers; her niece, Renee Powers; her sister-in-law, Alison Roberts; and her lifelong friend, Margaret “Peggy” Crosby.

She is survived by daughters, Patti White, of Fairfield, and her companion, Jim LeClair, and Cindy; her sons, Bill Hapworth, of Fairfield, Howard Hapworth and daughter-in-law, Tara Grignon, of Fairfield; her grandson, Jason White and his spouse, Tammy, and their daughter, Izabella White (Jackie’s great-granddaughter); her brother, Edward Ronco and his spouse, Shelley Ronco, of Waterville; her niece, Tara Ronco; and many other cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Per Jackie’s request, there will be no funeral services.

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 to your local animal shelter or German Shepherd Rescue.

DENNIS C. JOHNSON

FAIRFIELD – Dennis Charles Johnson, 73, passed away on Tuesday, May 24, 2022, due to COPD and dementia. He was born February 27, 1949, in Ashby, Massa­chusetts, to Clifton E. and Lillian E. (Fagan) Johnson.

Dennis graduated from Ashby High School in 1967, married his high school sweetheart, Linda (Sinclair) Johnson, and they lived, laughed and loved each other for 57 years.

Dennis worked in Weyerhaeuser paper mill, Simon Saw & Steel, but most of his life he did what he loved best, repairing vehicles, and building race engines in his own business, Apollo Foreign Auto Part and Repair.

Dennis loved and was loved by many, especially the many children in his life.

He is survived by his wife, Linda; son, Brent and wife Kimberly; daughter, Lisa and husband Michael; grandchildren; great-grandchildren; and many children in heart; his sister, Eileen and her husband Bob Mason, of Lunenburg, Massachusetts; sister-in-law Cathy Johnson, of West Townsend, Massachusetts; and many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his father and mother; brothers, Gerald, Kevin, Bruce and his wife Norma.

There will be a Celebration of Dennis’ Life at the Fairfield United Methodist Church, on Saturday, June 25, 2022, at 1 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, donations may be made to the charity of your choice.

DAVID D. GUERRETTE

AUGUSTA – David Daniel Guerrette, 63, passed away on Thursday, December 9, 2021, following several years being in a home in Bangor, for advanced dementia. He was born the son of Maurice Guerrette and Doris (Roy) Guerrette, of Frenchville. He was the youngest of five.

He grew up in Frenchville, and attended local grade school there. He attended Wisdom High School, in St. Agatha, and attended Thomas College, in Waterville, graduating with a degree in business management in May 1980.

Following graduation he lived in Skowhegan and worked for Stop ‘n Shop as an assistant manager for several months. He moved to Augusta and lived on Pleasant Hill Road for a few years, moving to Glenridge Drive Apartments. His last residence was 9 Penley St., in Augusta, where he lived from June 1988 until June 2013.

He worked for LaVerdiere’s Super Drug Stores, in Augusta and Gardiner, as assistant manager for several years. His last employment was with NRF Distributors, in Augusta, for several years as a flooring network manager.

He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Vicki (Peaslee) Guerrette, of Augusta; daughter Jennifer Guerrette, of Fairfield, Connecticut; sister, Lucille Guerrette, of Madawaska; his brother Gerald Guerrette, of Madawaska; and his sister Mary Ann (Guerrette) Bosse, of St. Agatha, and her husband Darrell; one neice, Tina (Bosse), of Maryland and her son Geoffrey; brother-in-law Vaughn W. Peaslee Jr., of Augusta, and his wife Brenda, and their children Ryan Peaslee, of Maine, and Sarah Peaslee, of Florida, and her daughter Madison; and aunt by marriage, Ernestine Peaslee, of Somerville.

He was predeceased by his parents, a sister Madelyn Guerrette, of Canada, where she served as a nun, father-in-law Vaughn W. Peaslee Sr., and mother-in-law Geraldine (Gerry) Peaslee, of Somerville.

A spring memorial service will be held for family members only. June 6, 1944, five naval assault divisions landed on the shores of Normandy, France. An assault of this magnitude has never been seen in the history of mankind. The landings sites were given code names, Utah, Omaha, Gold, Juno and Sword. The operation itself was given the code name, Operation Overlord. There were 7,000 ships with landing craft manned by over 195,000 naval personnel from the eight allied countries. England, Canada and the USA supplied more than 133,000 troops. During this landing 10,300 troops were casualties of war. By the end of June more than 850,000 men and 570,000 tons of supplies and equipment were involved. Also 148,000 vehicles were used.

Allied forces held the western front and the Russians held the Eastern front. All of Europe was involved. This would be the one time in history that all of Europe was united, and race, ethnicity, color went unnoticed. For me it seems so strange that we are united in war but divided in peace. We should have learned something given this great unity.

There are many brave men and women buried on foreign soil. Although this is sad the burial sites are very well maintained, respected and protected. On May 7, 1945, German General Alfred Jodi signed an unconditional surrender at Reims, France. The President of the United States Franklin D. Roosevelt, on a hand written note, gave total authority for Operation Overlord to General Dwight D. Eisenhower, who would eventually become president of the United States.

World War II actually began on September 1, 1939, when Germany invaded Poland. This horrific war lasted until September 2, 1945; claiming hundreds of thousands lives. Two days later September 3, France and Britain declared war on Germany in defense of Poland. World War II became a global war with Japan and Italy joining Germany and the United States eventually joining when things became tough for the now known allies. Democracy and freedom was the theme and the avoidance of world dominance by an evil dictator, Adolf Hitler. However, if it hadn’t been for the USA we would be looking at a different world today.

So as you can see by going back in history D-Day and Normandy became famous dates, places and events. Once again we must remember our veterans, especially those who gave it all. The greatest sacrifice given for God, country and family is one’s life. I don’t believe any soldier, land, sea or air ever intended to die but were prepared to do so if it became necessary. Older Americans have a family member in their past who perished because of events such as D-Day and its aftermath.

Currently we and the world are on very shaky ground and very close to world conflict, again, yet many of our leaders aren’t paying attention. Some of us see, remember and worry when we see what is happening in our country and around the world. When you start to count your allies it’s time to worry and pay attention to the big picture. If world peace is disrupted again can you count on those around you? Does everyone truly love these United States? Keep freedom in your sights on this D-Day and freedom in your heart. May the good Lord bless and keep you and yours safe and free from another D-Day. God bless America.

China planners take solar field trip: pleased with results

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by Mary Grow

CHINA, ME — Three China Planning Board members took a field trip to Three Level Farm community solar farm on Route 32 (Vassalboro Road) before their May 24 meeting, and were pleased with what they saw.

The visit was part of board members’ preparation to write a solar ordinance to submit to China voters in November. The solar farm was approved several years ago, under the current land use ordinance; provisions intended for buildings were adapted to regulate solar panels.

“This one sets the standard,” board member Walter Bennett said of Three Level Farm. He and others agreed a new solar-specific ordinance should include as requirements many of the things done at the South China site.

Specifically, they liked:

  • The limited impact on the natural environment. Only a few trees were cut; an existing wetland and drainage into it seem not to have been affected; minimal changes were made to the terrain.
  • The fact that the solar panels are almost invisible from the road. Board members pointed out that not all sites would be naturally screened, suggesting the need for a screening requirement.
  • The footings for the panels, three-inch diameter augurs that should be easy to remove when the solar farm is decommissioned.
  • The elevated panels – Codes Officer Jaime Hanson estimated the lower edges are about four feet from the ground and the top edges 10 feet – and the generous spacing, allowing a luxuriant growth of grass and clover.

With the minimal disruption to the site, it should return to its natural state soon after the facility is decommissioned, Bennett said.

Natale Tripodi said he had had reservation about solar farms, but after the visit is more enthusiastic.

The only concern discussed was how to allow wildlife into a fenced-off solar farm without also letting people in. Fencing and signage are essential, board members agreed, both to inform people that the area is private property and to avoid possible injury to trespassers.

The May 24 agenda called for discussion of the draft solar ordinance and proposed amendments to the Land Use Ordinance, the latter mostly to incorporate changes required by the state Department of Environmental Protection. With only three members present, acting board chairman James Wilkens postponed both topics.

Hanson said state officials are reviewing currently protected areas along lakes, streams and wetlands. Residents who question whether their property near any protected area is correctly zoned are invited to contact him; he will request a state review.

Wilkens thanked Hanson and Planning Board Secretary Dawn Kilgore for their work. He told Kilgore her diligence is appreciated (board members almost never suggest even a minor change in her detailed meeting minutes). And he told Hanson that he appears to have gained residents’ respect and to be managing codes enforcement smoothly.

Two days after the meeting, Town Manager Rebecca Hapgood reported that Hanson is resigning to accept a position with Kennebec County. China is advertising for a new codes officer.

Because the next regular planning board meeting would have fallen on Election Day, June 14, members agreed they will skip it and meet Tuesday evening, June 28, unless a special meeting is needed earlier.

VASSALBORO: Two reserve accounts have lost money in market

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by Mary Grow

VASSALBORO, ME — Vassalboro select board members discussed two main topics at a short May 26 meeting: plans to offer amendments to warrant articles at the June 6 town meeting, and two proposals from resident Amy Davidoff.

Town Manager Mary Sabins explained that because of the national economic downturn, two of Vassalboro’s reserve accounts have lost money. The town meeting warrant asks voters to appropriate a specified sum from each, and that sum might not be there on June 6 or later when the money is needed.

The first problem is with Art. 4, which lists anticipated revenue from sources other than taxation that would help fund the 2022-23 budget. Of the total of more than $2 million, the article proposes using $71,991 from the fire truck reserve, to make a lease payment due in July, and $200,000 from surplus (the town’s unassigned fund balance).

Sabins said the fire truck reserve fund has $70,954.90 in it. On the recommendation of the town’s investment advisor, it has been moved from investment to savings so it won’t lose any more.

The manager recommended taking another $1,036.10 from surplus (for a total of $201,036.10) to make up the difference. Select board members agreed, and plan to offer an amendment to Art. 4 at the meeting.

The other article that will likely need amending, for a similar reason, is Art. 11, which calls for $125,000 from the plow truck reserve to help buy a new plow truck. Again, select board members approved Sabins’ recommended amendment, which would add a note authorizing use of surplus funds if needed (see also the article on the Vassalboro town meeting in this issue of The Town Line).

Davidoff’s first request concerned broadband service. She wants Vassalboro officials to join representatives of other Kennebec County towns in asking county commissioners to “facilitate” a county-wide assessment of broadband needs. Determining how many residents are underserved or completely unserved on a county-wide basis, instead of town by town, might make it easier to take advantage of federal funds for expanded service, she said.

Davidoff assured the board signing a letter of request would not create any financial obligation for the town. Select board members voted unanimously to approve Vassalboro’s endorsing the request.

Davidoff’s second proposal was that select board members approve creation of a Solid Waste Sustainability Committee whose members would offer them advice on solid waste issues. This committee, too, she presented as something that might increase Vassalboro’s eligibility for federal solid waste management funds, by providing information and looking into grants and application requirements.

Transfer Station Manager George Hamar has been involved in discussion of the proposed committee, Davidoff said. Select board members postponed a decision until they, too, talk with Hamar.

In other business May 26, select board members, by unanimous decisions:

  • Approved a marijuana business permit for Hayden Poupis, at 63 Old Meadow Road, as recommended by codes officer Ryan Page.
  • Adopted the updated Kennebec County Hazard Mitigation Plan (as their compeers in China did on May 23; see The Town Line, May 26, p. 2). Theodore Marshall, of the Kennebec County Emergency Management Agency, told board members the only listed hazard in Vassalboro is an area on Cook Hill Road with a potential for wash-outs.
  • Set their summer meeting schedule, subject to amendment if needed, as follows: regular meetings Thursday evenings June 9, June 23, July 14 and Aug. 11. They further agreed to skip a meeting that would have fallen on Sept. 1, leaving their September meetings on the 15 and the 29.

Vassalboro residents prepare for June 6 town meeting

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by Mary Grow

VASSALBORO, ME — Vassalboro voters who assemble in person at 6:30 p.m. Monday, June 6, at Vassalboro Community School will decide on the 2022-23 town budget and numerous other issues, including whether to establish a new fund, whether to let select board members buy a new town truck and whether to amend the town’s Marijuana Business Ordinance.

The part of the annual town meeting warrant to be decided June 6 consists of 39 articles. The final 15 of the 39 are the proposed 2022-23 school budget.

The meeting will continue by written ballot on June 14, with polls open at the town office from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Town issues to be decided June 14 are local elections and ratification or rejection of the school budget approved at the open meeting.

State primary elections are also on June 14.

The first action June 6 is election of a moderator to run the meeting. Town Manager Mary Sabins said veteran moderator Richard Thompson has agreed to serve, if he is elected.

The second article asks voters to elect five budget committee members for two-year terms. Current members whose terms end this year are Richard Bradstreet, Rick Denico, Jr., Douglas Phillips, Michael Poulin and Frank Richards.

Most proposed municipal expenditures are in Art. 5, with a total of $2,582,004 for 14 accounts. The three largest are $593,925 for public works; $577,835 for administration; and $558,290 for road paving.

Select board and budget committee members both recommend these expenditures. In spring meetings, the two groups discussed how much road paving Vassalboro can afford at current prices and how generous salary increases for town employees should be.

Select board members are considering adopting a salary scale for town employees, based on information collected by consultant Laurie Bouchard, of Jefferson. They postponed a decision until after voter action on the budget and election of a new board member.

The library budget got more attention than usual at select board and budget committee meetings. Library supporters ask for $60,500 next year, up from $35,000 in the current year, to continue the town’s contribution to salaries and to provide more community programs.

Three more expenditure requests are in Art. 6: $156,000 to add to the capital improvement reserve, $106,000 for roadside mowing equipment and $20,000 for streamside park development. Officials discussed the latter two repeatedly.

The “roadside mowing equipment” started as Road Foreman Gene Field’s request for a specific piece of equipment and was rewritten to cover more options; at that, budget committee members endorsed it by a one-vote margin, five in favor and four opposed. Alternatives discussed by select board and budget committee members included leasing equipment, a method Field said would be more expensive.

The streamside park is proposed for the town-acquired lot between Route 32 and Outlet Stream, a short distance north of East Vassalboro. Eventual plans include a parking area, picnic tables and probably a pavilion or other shelter, enough to open the land for nature-watching, picnicking and fishing.

Art. 7 asks if voters want to establish a “Property Cleanup Fund,” using $25,000 in tax money plus a $40,000 grant from the State and Local Fiscal Recovery Fund. The cleanup fund would be used for two purposes: removal of “vacant, dangerous or abandoned” buildings, after appropriate legal procedures; and removal of “junk, waste, unregistered vehicles or similar offending materials” from an unlicensed junkyard or a property deemed to violate “public health or nuisance laws,” again with appropriate legal safeguards.

The immediate target is the former church on Priest Hill Road, in North Vassalboro, which has been declared a dangerous building. State law says the property-owner is to pay for demolition, but Chad Caron has told select board members he does not expect to be able to reimburse the town.

The request to buy a new town truck is in Art. 11. Select board members ask authorization to spend not more than $288,000 for a “new truck, plow and sander,” and to sell or trade the town’s 2009 Volvo truck. They expected to use $125,000 from the truck reserve fund and $108,000 carried forward from the current fiscal year, and are asking for a 2022-23 appropriation from taxes of $55,000.

Field would prefer to keep the old truck as a spare, in case two newer trucks break down simultaneously, as happened this past winter.

At the May 26 select board meeting, Sabins said the truck reserve fund is currently below $125,000, due to the national economy. Board members agreed that if the fund is not adequate by June 6, they will offer an amendment to the article that, if accepted, would allow use of surplus money (from the town’s unallocated fund balance) to make up the difference.

The proposed amendment would leave the total to be spent on the truck at $288,000. It would only change the source of the money, if a change were needed (see also the article on the Vassalboro select board meeting in this issue of The Town Line).

The proposed amendments to the Marijuana Business Ordinance, in Arts. 12 and 13, clarify licensing requirements and amend the definition of a cultivation facility.

Articles that will be familiar to regular voters deal with tax due dates (four are proposed, as usual); harvesting alewives; the Tax Increment Financing (TIF) program; and a request for a $15,000 contingency fund select board members can use for emergencies and unanticipated expenses.

The total school budget request for 2022-23 is $8,722,176.29. Two parts of the total come from town taxpayers: $2,410,095 as the required matching money for the state’s Essential Programs and Services grant, plus $1,313,915 in additional local funds. A note in the warrant says the school board recommends the additional town money to contribute to costs for “special education, salaries and benefits, and tuition.”

The budget recommended by the select board and the budget committee is expected to cause no change in the local property tax rate. The 2021-22 rate of 14.48 mils ($14.48 for each $1,000 of valuation) should remain in 2022-23, barring major economic changes.

In June 14 local and state elections, there are no contests on any ballot, although there is a line for a write-in candidate for each office.

On the town ballot, Frederick L. Denico II is unopposed for a three-year term on the select board, succeeding Robert Browne, who is not running for re-election. Frederick L. Denico II is the same man as budget committee member Rick Denico, Jr., in Art. 2.

For two three-year terms on the school board, Jessica Clark is unopposed for re-election and Amy M. French is unopposed for the vacant seat left by Kevin Levasseur’s retirement.

Party primary ballots list, for local Democratic candidates, Storme Jude St. Valle, of Augusta, for District #15 state senator and Amy J. Davidoff, of Vassalboro, for District #61 state representative. For Republicans, District #15 State Senator Matthew Gary Pouliot, of Augusta, and District #61 State Representative Richard Bradstreet, of Vassalboro, are unopposed for re-election.

The municipal ballot asking if voters want to endorse the school budget includes a second question, identified as a non-binding straw poll intended to offer guidance to select board members. It asks if voters want town officials to write a solar ordinance “that would regulate where and how many solar arrays could be constructed in town, and also provide rules about decommissioning the arrays after their useful life.”

The final version of such an ordinance would become effective only with voter approval.

The annual Vassalboro town report for the year ending June 30, 2021, is now available. Printed copies are at the town office; the report is also on line.

On-line access to the town report, the town meeting warrant and all the separate ballots and Sabins’ budget summary is found in the center column on the website, Vassalboro.net, under the heading TOWN MEETING INFO.

South China remembers fallen soldiers

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Photo courtesy of Ron Emery

SOUTH CHINA, ME — At the South China Veteran Monument ceremony on Monday, Memorial Day, May 30, Ron Emery, left, had the opportunity and honor to help a young veteran display the POW/MIA banner. He did not get his name but noticed his silver spurs. Soldiers serving with Cavalry units (referred to as Troopers) are inducted into the Order of the Spur after successfully completing a “Spur Ride” or for having served during combat as a member of a Cavalry unit. Emery thanks him for his service and his support for POW/MIA.

Scouts honor fallen warriors

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Photo by Ron Emery

CHINA, ME — China Boy Scout Troop #479 participated in the Memorial Day ceremonies, on Monday, May 30, by marching to the cemetery. These are photos of the China Scouts.

Photo by Ron Emery

Photo by Ron Emery

Photo by Ron Emery