Front row, from left to right, Jaxon Troxell, Phoenix McLoy, Peyton Ross, Judah Young, Tristan Ware, Cole Bean, Carson Pinkham and Zekhi Alvarez. Middle row, Benjamin Veilleux, Jase Spaulding, Dylan Devlin, Evan Karter, Malakhi Klaiber, Isaac Chase, and Brody Ware. Back row, Gage Eldredge, Donovan Reynolds, Ender Coleman, Alexander Sheehan, Jayce Damron, and Connor Jones. (photo by Missy Brown, Central Maine Photography)
WINSLOW – Doreen Ann Nader, 55, of Winslow passed away Sunday, August 25, 2024, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Augusta. Doreen was born in Waterville on May 31, 1969, to Joseph “Joe” William Nader Jr., and Mary Effie (Robinson) Nader.
Doreen graduated from Winslow High School in 1988. In 1990 she graduated from Central Maine Vocational Technical Institute, in Auburn, with a graphic arts technology degree. She also took classes at Thomas College, in Waterville, in 1994.
Doreen worked at Staples for many years, she worked at Marden’s Inc., in Waterville, and Target, in Augusta.
Doreen enjoyed scrapbooking with her mother and friends, She also enjoyed sewing, Stampin’ Up and being part of family gatherings along with spending time with her friends.
She was predeceased by her father Joseph “Joe” William Nader Jr. and mother Mary Effie (Robinson) Nader.
Surviving her are her younger sister, Paula (Nader) Snow and her husband Thomas Snow, of Wayne; one nephew, Ben Hasson, of Columbus, Ohio; one niece, Christine Hasson, of Waterville; her godmother Beatrice Nader; and many cousins.
A Mass of Christian burial will be held on Saturday, September 21, 2024, at Saint Joseph Maronite Catholic Church, 3 Appleton Street, in Waterville, at 10 a.m. The burial will follow at St. Francis Cemetery, 78 Grove St., Waterville.
Arrangements are under the direction and care of Gallant Funeral Home, 10 Elm Street, Waterville. An online guestbook may be signed, condolences and memories shared at http://www.gallantfh.com.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in the name of Doreen Nader ,to Humane Society Waterville Area, 100 Webb Rd, Waterville, Maine 04901.
ALBION – Penelope Lu Sweatt, 82, passed away peacefully at her home, in Albion, on Wednesday, August 28, 2024. Penny Sawyer was born on February 5, 1942, in Farmington, the daughter of Norman and Phyllis (York) Sawyer.
Moving many times in her childhood, she graduated from York High School, in 1960, before heading to beautician school. She met the love of her life, George, at school in Penacook, New Hampshire, and they married in July 1960.
Penny spent her 50-year career as a hairdresser. She founded Penny’s Hairstyles out of her home, in Greenland, New Hampshire, in the early ‘60s where she raised three sons. In 1976, the Sweatts moved to Albion, to build a home on the family farm.
Penny loved life and lived it to the fullest. She traveled the world with her closest friends and grandchildren and drove long distances to watch her family at sporting events, performances, racing, and so much more. She was always there to support her friends and family and coordinated every major family gathering.
Penny was predeceased by George A. Sweatt Jr., her husband of 58 years, her son, George (Scott) Sweatt III, of Salisbury, New Hampshire, her sister Beverly and husband David Kelley, of Albion.
Penny is survived by Willie Sawyer Grenier (Mike), of Albion; sons, Daren Sweatt, of Concord, New Hampshire, Brian Sweatt (Belinda), of Albion; daughter Jennifer (Jason) Buck; and daughter-in-law Jen Sweatt, of Fairfield; grandchildren, Melissa, Andrew, Ryan, Meghan, Devon Raie (Alton) Savage, Spencer (Cassidy) Sweatt, Ashley Ferris, Amanda Ferris, Jordyn Buck, Sydney (AJ) Amato, and Brady Buck; great-grandchildren, Brynn, Sully, Hailie, Lanalynn, Addilynn, Natalee, Alexandria, and Sophia; nieces and nephews, Katrina (Rick) Dumont, Lynne (Bruce) Blye, Karey Kelley, Keith (Deborah) Kelley, Kern (Michaela) Kelley, Kristin (Scott) Wescott, Ariel Grenier, and Jared (Samantha) Grenier.
Services will be held on Saturday, September 14, 2024, at 11 a.m., at China Baptist Church, 36 Causeway Road, China, followed by a burial at the family cemetery, in Albion. Reception will be at the Sweatt Homestead, 348 Winslow Road, Albion.
SOUTH CHINA – Nancy V. Bodine, 67, passed away unexpectedly Friday, August 30, 2024, at her camp, on Hyde Island, on Moosehead Lake. She was born August 4, 1957, in Greenville, the daughter of Clementine R. (Munster) and Joseph Henry Gilbert Sr.
Nancy loved her camp (Lucky Bummer) on Moosehead Lake, from her hummingbirds to her gatherings on the back beach, sitting around bonfires with friends and family while looking at the stars, and listening to Delbert McClinton. BLP themed parties, raking leaves, champagne cruises at sunset, and her famous barbecue chicken sauce with bean hole baked beans are just a few of the many things for which she was known and loved. She celebrated everything she cared for or about, and was a constant loving force to all who loved her.
Nancy was a 1979 graduate of Thomas College, in Waterville, with a BS in accounting and mathematics. Later she was a 1983 graduate with a Masters of Business Administration, from Thomas College, as well.
She held many varied managerial positions in both private and government sectors during her career. Her final position and the one she was most proud of was her work with the State of Maine as Fiscal Administrator of the Unorganized Territories at the Office of State Auditor. This was a position that allowed her to serve the people in these remote rugged areas like where she grew up.
Nancy is survived by her husband of 45 years, Matthew Bodine; son, Madison Bodine; four brothers, Henry, Mark, Darryl, and Darren Gilbert; four sisters, Vanessa Folsom, Lori-Anna Douglass, Clarissa Howard, and Anna-Maria Herrick; and several brothers- and sisters-in-law; nieces, and nephews.
She was predeceased by her parents.
A celebration of Nancy’s life will be announced at a later date. Arrangements are in the care of the Lary Funeral Home. Messages of condolence and memories may be expressed at http://www.laryfuneralhome.com.
WINSLOW – Jeffrine Marie (Theriault) Quirion, 92, passed away on Friday, August 30, 2024, at Lakewood Continuing Care, in Waterville. Jeffrine was born in Waterville on March 14, 1932, to Joseph and Lucie Dora (Ouellet) Theriault.
After attending Waterville schools, she then went to work for C.F. Hathaway Shirt Co.
On July 4, 1951, she married Gerard Quirion. They lived in Winslow for a short period of time before relocating to Marlboro, Massachusetts. They were both employed at the Raytheon Corp., in Waltham, Massachusetts, for many years. She retired in 1992 and moved back to Winslow to be near family.
She enjoyed her beautiful backyard flower garden in the summer months. She and Gerard also enjoyed several cruises over the years. She was a member of the Ladies Guild at her church in Marlboro for many years. Jeffrine was an avid quilter, making many beautiful quilts and wall hangings for herself and family members. Although she had no children of her own, she adored her many nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by her parents, her husband Gerard, brothers, Irenee (Rene), Raymond, Wilfred, and Leonard, sisters, Grace Huard, Madeleine Grivois, Marie Cash, and Theresa White.
She is survived by her brother John Paul; sister Rita Hikel; sister-in-law Colette Lachance and her husband Roland; many nieces and nephews.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, September 14, 2024, at 11 a.m., at St. John the Baptist Church, 26 Monument Street, Winslow, followed by a burial at St. Francis Catholic Cemetery, 78 Grove Street, Waterville.
Arrangements are under the direction and care of Gallant Funeral Home, 10 Elm Street, Waterville. An online guestbook may be signed, condolences and memories shared at http://www.gallantfh.com.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to your favorite charity.
SOMERVILLE—John M. Powers, 92, died Tuesday, September 3, 2024, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Augusta. He was the son of John F. and Jessie (Marvin) Powers.
John, aka “Jack”, grew up in Revere, Massachusetts. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served for four years before enlisting in the U.S. Air Force where he dedicated 17 years of service before retirement as a Tech Sargeant.
On December 27, 1965, Jack married Teresa A. Varrell and they became parents to a son, Michael Powers. Jack’s career in the military led the family to live in various parts of the country, even going overseas to Japan for a period of time. Jack was a gifted artist, and in retirement, he worked as an illustrator for the U.S. Army.
Jack enjoyed singing and playing his guitar, and participating in community theater productions both as an actor and director. He found peace in fishing on Long Pond, in Somerville. Jack also enjoyed creating artwork as his home is adorned with his beautiful paintings and drawings.
Jack is survived by his wife of 58 years, Teresa “Polly” Powers; and his son, Michael Powers.
A graveside service was held on Tuesday, September 10, at 10 a.m., at Calvary Cemetery, 299 Grand Army Rd., Whitefield, ME 04353.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Plummer Funeral Home, 16 Pleasant St., Augusta, ME 04330. Condolences, stories and photos may be shared by visiting www.plummerfh.com.
HALLOWELL – Donna Maxine Heath, 88, passed away Wednesday, September 4, 2024, at Woodlands Senior Living, in Hallowell. She was born in Lincoln, on October 7, 1935, the oldest daughter of Isabel Hamm and Harry Peters.
Donna graduated from Sherman High School, in the class of 1954, and went on to attend New Brunswick Bible Institute. Donna married her high school sweetheart, Robert Paul Heath, of Sherman, on August 29, 1955.
Paul and Donna pastored churches from Maine to New York, most recently the East Auburn Baptist Church, Pittston Congregational, and Freedom Fellowship. Donna was the most generous, kind, and loving person to everyone she met. Throughout their lifetime, her children were told countless times by those that knew their mom, just how special she was. Donna’s unconditional love for people made them feel as though they were the most important person in the room. Donna’s legacy was the epitome of unconditional love and support that she invested in each of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
Donna was predeceased by her parents Isabel and Harry, her brothers, Vaughn, Woody and Maurice Peters “Dick”, her sister Maxine, her infant daughter Lori-Ann, and her husband “Paul”.
Donna is survived by her daughter Lois Dorr, and her husband Terry; her three sons, Brian Heath and his wife Jennifer, Bruce Heath, Jonathan Heath and his wife, Jessica Wincapaw; her seven grandchildren, Shawn, Erin, Steven, Rachel and her husband Brad, Zoe and her husband Jake, Josie and her fiancé Connor, and Samantha; her six great-grandchildren; Sophia, Izak, Emma, Johnny, Sophie and Bennett; her younger sister Patricia (Peters) Albert, and her husband Leonard.
A memorial service will be held at 2:30 p.m., on Sunday, September 22, 2024, at Cornerstone Christian Fellowship Church, 2539 Riverside Dr., Vassalboro, ME 04989. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the ministry of Cornerstone Christian Fellowship, 2539 Riverside Dr., Vassalboro, ME 04989.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Plummer Funeral Home, 16 Pleasant St., Augusta, ME 04330. Condolences, stories, and photos may be shared at the memorial service and by visiting www.plummerfh.com.
WATERVILLE – Russell J. “Russ” Vesecky, 92, of Waterville, passed away peacefully on Monday, July 29, 2024. He was born on December 23, 1931, in Oak Park, Cook County, Illinois.
In his early years, Russ was involved in his family’s business, working alongside his siblings at their parents’ store in the Chicago area. His academic journey led him to earn a bachelor’s degree from a junior college before being drafting into the U.S. Army in 1953. Russ served honorably for eight years, completing his boot camp at Fort Lewis, Washington, and later being stationed in Germany, where he met his wife, Gerda. His military tenure ended in 1961 with an honorable discharge, marking a period of dedicated service to his country.
Post-military, Russ transitioned from Florida to New Jersey, where he worked for the U.S. Post Office. In 1970, seeking a change, he moved with Gerda and their children, Susanne and Saul, to Harmony. The rural setting required adaptability, and Russ embraced various roles from taxi driving in Bangor and Boston to delivering newspapers and engaging in seasonal agricultural work. His resilience shone brightly when he became a self-taught expert in scissor sharpening, a skill he honed to serve clients from Maine to Florida.
Tragedy struck in 1984 with the loss of his wife Gerda, after which Russ raised his granddaughter Heidi, demonstrating immense strength as a single caretaker. His personal life saw joy again when he married Edith in 1990, who survives him today alongside his son Saul, granddaughter Heidi, sister Lillian, and nieces and nephews, Gail, Charlene, Jack, and Wayne and their families.
He was preceded in death by his first wife Gerda, daughter Susanne, brother John, and his parents, Anton and Bessie Vesecky, longtime owners of the Key Largo Shopper, in Florida.
Russ’s hobbies painted the picture of a man ever engaged with life and his community. He was an accordion player, often gracing the Harmony Grange Hall with music, and he cherished gardening and fishing. His profound love for aircrafts remained a significant part of his life, reflecting his passion for mechanics and flight.
A private celebration of life was held in his favorite place, underscoring a life rich in experiences and love.
Dan and Scott’s Cremation and Funeral Service, of Skowhegan, Maine, assisted the family during this time, ensuring that Russ’s final farewell was handled with care and respect.
Russ’s journey through life, marked by service, adaptability, and a deep commitment to family, leaves a lasting legacy that will be cherished by all who knew him.
WINSLOW – Joyce Daugier Lessard Toman, of Winslow, passed away on Tuessday, July 2, 2024. Born on March 2, 1936, in East Vassalboro, she was the daughter of Raymond Daugier and Madeline Vigue Daugier Marcoux.
Joyce spent her entire life in the Winslow area. She graduated from Winslow High School and embarked on a 44-year career with Federal Trust Co., Fleet Bank (now Bank of America), in Waterville, retiring in 1998. Even in retirement she worked part-time at Merrill Bank and L.L.Bean.
Joyce was a member of St. John the Baptist Church, in Winslow, and enjoyed hobbies such as crafts, bowling, gardening, boating, snowmobiling, and camping at Snow Pond with her family. She actively participated in numerous community activities and was involved in various banking organizations throughout her career.
Joyce will be remembered for her kindness, generosity, and the positive impact she had on everyone who knew her.
Joyce was predeceased by her parents, mother Madeline Marcoux, stepfather Donald Marcoux; and husband, George “Buzz” Toman.
Survivors include her son, Scott Lessard and wife Mary; grandchildren, Shannon and Eric Lessard; and several step-grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Funeral arrangements will be handled by Veilleux Redington Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, 8 Elm St., Waterville. Services will be held at Notre Dame Church in Waterville, on October 5, 2024, at 11 a.m., with burial at St. Francis Cemetery, in Waterville, following the service. There will be no visiting hours.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Saint Michael School, 345 Church St. Livermore, California 94550.
WINDSOR – James Russell Doe, 75, of Windsor, unexpectedly passed away at his home on Sunday, June 30, 2024. He was born in Waterville, September 26, 1948, to George William Doe and Carolyn Lavenia Fernald.
Jimmy was educated in the Windsor school system, graduating from Erskine Academy, in South China, on June 8, 1968, with perfect attendance throughout his high school years.
Jimmy was a dedicated and hardworking individual. He was a licensed forklift operator and industrial truck operator. He was employed by the state of Maine D.O.T. bridge division for 14 years, cleaning, painting and welding. He was employed at Statler Tissue, the 105-year-old mill on the banks of the Kennebec River, in Augusta, for 14 years as a back tender and spare machine tender. Jimmy was a talented and artistic designer and carpenter. He sketched and built furniture. He was a self-employed carpenter and had a furniture refinishing business, as well as home maintenance. He was always building projects that went beyond expectations. He built classic steel wooden runner sleds for a teacher’s two children who still have them today. He was fondly remembered by the Jefferson Village School staff.
Jimmy enjoyed classic vehicles of which he owned many, such as his immaculate 1955 and 1957 Chevys, 1979 Pontiac Firebird Trans Am, a burnt orange Corvette, a Camaro, multiple trucks and Harley motorcycles. He was a perfectionist and kept everything he owned in a neat, clean and pristine condition. His sister, Joyce, fondly remembers Jimmy giving her motorcycle rides. Jimmy enjoyed going off-road 4-wheel truck driving with his brother Danny, exploring the roads less traveled. Together they frequently worked on vehicles and welding projects.
Jimmy will be missed at his Saturday morning drive to Dunkin’ Donuts, shopping a Tractor Supply, lunch at Burger King and afternoon visits with his brother Ralph.
He was always helping family and friends, as he was very skilled with his hands. He helped his brother Peter with his tractor, making parts from scratch, as well as helping Peter rebuild his barn.
Jimmy’s laughter was explosive and memorable. He loved old time Rock ‘n’ Roll, and the Beatles music.
Jimmy will be remembered by the many lives he touched. He was actively involved with Disabled American Veterans Commanders Club, and cited as a Silver Leader in recognition for his outstanding devotion and generosity. He was a Special Olympics Partner and Supporter, donating annually all of his spare change he collected in his cigar box, and dropping it off at the Capital Area Federal Credit Union’s fundraiser. He dontated to the Father Flanagan’s Boys Home Children of Boys Town, helping to ensure that everyone deserves the chance to reach their full potential.
Jimmy was a strong-willed and set-in-his-ways private and quiet person, but he had an enormous heart and sense of humor. He was generous, loyal and clever through the knowledge gained from his life experiences.
He was a proud man who did not ask for help as he would problem solve independently before reaching out. He will always be the golden hair, hazel eyes, slender built, 5-foot, 11-inch Harley driving “Easy Rider”.
His departure came as a great shock and the entire family and community feel this loss. Jimmy lived the best life he knew. While everyone mourns his loss, they take comfort in knowing his earthly body suffers no more pain. His soul is now in the comfort of God and heaven, safe and at peace.
Jimmy is survived by seven siblings, Peter S. Fernald, Ralph E. Doe, David P. Doe and wife Carla, Debbie A. Barnes and husband Robert, Diane L. Brown and husband Robert, Daniel R. Doe, Joyce E.Vittoriso, and husband Alan; sister-in-law Lois Doe; seven nieces; 13 nephews; cousins.
He was predeceased by his parents, George and Carolyn, brother Alan L. Dodemont and wife Joyce, brother Jay C. Doe, sisters-in-law Phyllis Fernald and Madeline Doe, and nephew Adam Schools.
His ashes will be laid to rest at Rest Haven Cemetery, in Windsor, on Saturday, September 28, 2024, at 11 a.m.
BENTON – Joanne Robinson Gagnon, 72, passed away peacefully, holding the hand of her husband of 53 years, Roger Gagnon. Joanne was born the youngest daughter of the late Kelsey and Edith Robinson.
She was a lifelong resident of Benton and graduated from Lawrence High School, in Fairfield.
Joanne had a 42-year career at Warren Bros/Tilcon/Pike Industries, serving most of those years as their accounts receivable manager. She had great friendships with both coworkers and many appreciative customers.
Joanne was a talented quilter and crafter. She was very clever and could figure out how to make or fix nearly anything. She also enjoyed reading, movie watching and shopping.
Joanne is survived by her husband Roger; daughter Heather and her husband Brett Libby; son Barrett and his wife Wendy Gagnon; grandchildren Taylor, Shelby, Elizabeth, Gabriel, Amelia, Kaiden, Caleb; great-grandson Everett; her brothers Eugene and Gary (Mary) Robinson; sister Maxine Dennis; sister in-law Pam; and nieces and nephews.
Predeceased family members include parents Kelsey and Edith, siblings, Harvey (wife Donna), Horace and sister in-law Beverly Robinson.
Arrangement under the care of Veilleux-Redington-Lawry Brothers Funeral Home 8 Elm Street Waterville Maine.
Service to be held Thursday, Sept. 12, 2024, visiting hours will be 11 a.m. – 1 p.m., with service to follow. There will be a private grave side burial with family members.
by Mary GrowAmong reports shared at the Vassalboro Select Board’s Sept. 5 meeting was an August 2024 newsletter prepared by Delta Ambulance executive director Chris Mitchell to answer some of the questions from area town officials.
The ambulance service began asking for municipal support in the previous fiscal year, requesting $15 per capita from towns it serves. In the current fiscal year that began July 1, 2024, the figure is $25 per capita. Mitchell and his predecessor, Timothy Beals, both predicted increases continue.
In the newsletter, Mitchell wrote that as 2023 ended, “Delta was facing annual losses between $2.5 to $3 million and had exhausted its financial reserves.”
Since then, Delta leaders have sold their Augusta station and are leasing it. They have negotiated financial aid from the two hospital systems they primarily serve, MaineGeneral and Northern Light Inland. The state legislature has approved financial aid to ambulance companies, though only a small portion is available so far.
Consequently, Mitchell wrote, Delta now anticipates losing only about $570,000 in the 2024-25 fiscal year. If the per-capita fee charged to municipalities increases to $35 in the fiscal year that begins in July 2025, he expects a balanced budget for 2025-26.
Mitchell’s report explains Delta’s on-going needs, including replacing ambulances – the replacement schedule was disrupted during the pandemic – and finding and paying staff.
As he did in local meetings during municipal budget discussion earlier this year, Mitchell mentioned inadequate insurance reimbursement as a major problem for ambulance services, one that state and federal legislators need to recognize and remedy.
Mitchell’s chart of calls to 13 area towns for the first seven months of 2024 shows 254 Vassalboro calls, an average of 36 a month. Average monthly response time varied from 11 minutes, 40 seconds, in April (one of the busiest months, with 44 calls) to 15 minutes, 35 seconds (in July, the least busy month, with only 25 calls).
by Mary GrowAt their Sept. 5 meeting, Vassalboro select board members approved three questions for a Nov. 5 local referendum ballot, on three different topics.
One question asks Vassalboro voters to authorize using already-available funds to contribute toward replacing the Dunlap bridge on Mill Hill Road.
A second asks voters to amend the town’s TIF (Tax Increment Financing) Ordinance to allow TIF money to be used for environmental projects in town.
And the third question seeks voter approval of an amendment to the Vassalboro Sanitary District’s charter to set up a system of electing VSD trustees.
The Mill Hill bridge project has many uncertainties, and generated the most discussion at the Sept. 5 meeting.
Town Manager Aaron Miller shared a sheet of financial calculations for a $1.8 million project to replace the existing culvert. Assuming successful grant applications, the town’s share would be about $160,000.
Vassalboro officials have more than $160,000 available in various funds. The proposed article for the Nov. 5 ballot, drafted by the town’s attorney, asks voters to authorize select board members to spend some of it for the bridge.
Board member Chris French urged rewording the article, fearing it was not clear enough. Miller said town officials would need to provide supporting information, but recommended leaving the article as presented.
Uncertainties, in addition to the success of grant applications, include which of three plans for a replacement bridge over Seven Mile Stream is best; how much the town will be expected to pay out and get reimbursed later, instead of being paid as expenses are incurred; and timing. French is concerned the culvert will fall apart before its replacement is ready.
Board members authorized paying Calderwood Engineering up to $58,500 to continue preliminary work on the bridge. They approved a draft letter supporting a grant application to the Maine Department of Marine Resources, which is interested in the project because migratory fish use Seven Mile Stream.
If voters approve this project and also approve the question about using TIF money for environmental projects, TIF funds can help with the bridge.
Miller recommended an Oct. 3 public hearing on the ballot questions.
In other business, Miller gave a brief update on Eagle Park, the streamside recreational area on Route 32 (Main Street) a short distance north of East Vassalboro Village.
Conservation Commission members and the town’s public works crew are involved in developing the area, he said, with plans for a metal-roofed pavilion on a concrete pad, picnic tables and wide gravel paths to facilitate handicapped access.
The manager expressed thanks to the state Department of Transportation and its contractor, Pratt & Sons, for donating clean fill from their sidewalk reconstruction in North Vassalboro to level parts of the park. Other donations may be pending, he said, for the park and the town recreation fields.
Board members approved a proclamation recognizing Sept. 17 through 23 as Constitution Week, observed annually since 1956 to recognize the Sept. 17, 1787, adoption of the United States Constitution by the Congress of the Confederation.
They scheduled a workshop meeting for 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 30, and combined with it their regular meeting that would have been Oct. 31, to be able to stay home on Halloween.
The next regular Vassalboro select board meeting is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 19.
by Mary GrowThe five China Budget Committee members at the Sept. 3 meeting unanimously endorsed the 56-page Third Amended Central Maine Power/China Lake Tax Increment Financing District and Development Program, which will be on the Nov. 5 ballot for voters’ action.
Town Manager Rebecca Hapgood summarized the changes from the second amendment, approved in 2021.
The major change is the addition of a new project on the west end of the causeway at the head of China Lake’s east basin. It will extend the existing sidewalk westward; add docks for fishing and swimming that will be separated from the docks at the boat launch farther east; and contribute toward improving the China Baptist Church parking lot, which provides parking space for people using the waterfront facilities.
The third TIF document deletes two underused and unused projects, a revolving loan fund for small businesses and a job training program. It adjusts funding for several ongoing projects.
China’s TIF program is funded through taxes paid by Central Maine Power Company on its transmission line through China and its South China substation. Hapgood explained that the revised town TIF document will ensure all of each year’s income is allocated, as the state requires.
If voters approve the revision, it will be submitted to the state Department of Economic and Community development for its review and hoped-for approval.
The Third Amended TIF document is on the town website, chinamaine.org., under the TIF Committee, which is under the heading Officials, Boards & Committees, and also on the Elections page.
China’s Nov. 5 voting will be in the former portable classroom behind the town office on Lakeview Drive. Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Absentee ballots will be available beginning Monday, Oct. 7.
by Mary GrowChina’s local elections will feature a contest for select board; an unopposed budget committee candidate; and four positions to be filled by write-in candidates.
After nomination papers were returned Sept. 6 and signatures verified, the results that town Manager Rebecca Hapgood shared with select board members Sept. 9 are:
— For three seats on the select board, Tod Detre, Blane Casey (incumbent), Brent Chesley (incumbent), Edwin Bailey and Thomas Rumpf.
— For the District 4 budget committee seat, Timothy Basham (incumbent).
— For the budget committee District 2 member, secretary and at-large member, no candidates.
— For one of China’s two representatives on the Regional School Unit #18 board of directors, no candidate. Melissa Cowing is a declared write-in candidate for the RSU #18 board position.
Local elections will be held Tuesday, Nov. 5, with local referendum questions and state and national elections.
by Mary GrowThe four China select board members at the Sept. 9 meeting quickly and unanimously approved two business items on their agenda, a revised solid waste agreement with Palermo and a fire truck purchase by the Weeks Mills volunteer fire department.
The solid waste agreement changes were worked out primarily by China Town Manager Rebecca Hapgood and Palermo select board member Bob Kurek, one of his town’s two representatives on the China transfer station committee.
The main purpose is to update the original agreement, which was signed in June 2016.
A major change increases the “town fee” that Palermo pays China annually. It was set at $18,000 in 2016, with no provision for adjustment. The new agreement raises the fee to $43,000, still payable in quarterly installments. It provides for an annual adjustment “plus or minus to the nearest $500” based on annual changes in the Consumer Price Index for all Urban Consumers for the Northeast.
The revised agreement also updates the section on access permits to reflect current policy. It adds a provision for dispute resolution that makes mediation the first recourse if the two towns’ officials disagree over the “meaning, performance, or enforcement” of the agreement.
At the Transfer Station Committee meeting the morning of Sept. 10, Kurek said the Palermo select board is satisfied with the revised agreement, but because of the increased town fee, it needs approval by voters at a special town meeting. He hopes the meeting will be scheduled in October.
Weeks Mills Fire Chief William Van Wickler previously approached China select board members at their Aug. 26 meeting about his department’s need for a new tanker truck (see the Aug. 29, 2024, issue of The Town Line, p. 2). Board chairman Wayne Chadwick offered to join him in inspecting a 1996 truck owned by Chelsea that Van Wickler had in mind.
Chadwick found no problems with the truck; he noted that its underparts are “pretty rust-free.” The truck is currently being inspected at Reliance Equipment in Vassalboro, Van Wickler said.
The fire chief said he had negotiated the price down from Chelsea’s initial $25,000 to $20,000. The department can provide half that; he asked select board members’ approval to use $10,000 from the fire department reserve fund.
That fund has about $152,000 in it, Hapgood said.
Select board members authorized the $10,000 withdrawal, unless Reliance’s inspection reveals unexpected problems. Van Wickler said he will let them know the inspection results.
One remaining question is whether the Chelsea truck will fit in the Weeks Mills fire house. Van Wickler said if he measured right, it will. If he measured wrong, he has arranged to swap it temporarily for a smaller one from the South China fire department, while he removes shelves in his building to make more space.
The next regular China select board meeting, on Monday, Sept. 23, will begin with a 6 p.m. apple crisp social and public hearing on the Nov. 5 local ballot questions
BRIGHT: Emily Poulin, of South China, snapped this bright sunflower recently.
LOOKING BACK: Jayne Winters, of South China, photographed this grosbeak as it seems to be looking over its shoulder.
SALUTE: Virginia Jones, of Palermo, captured this American flag waving in the morning fog.
Waste to be accepted in Kennebec and Somerset countiesThe Kennebec Valley Council of Governments, based in Fairfield, plans to host Household Hazardous Waste Collection Days in October in Kennebec and Somerset counties.
Skowhegan, Anson, and Madison will collect from 9 to 11:30 a.m., Saturday, Oct.ober 5, at the Skowhegan Transfer Station, 29 Transfer Station Drive. This is open to residents of those towns, who must call their own town office to schedule a time slot (Skowhegan, 207-612-2002; Anson, 207-696-3979; Madison, 207-696-3971).
Pittsfield, Canaan, Palmyra will collect from 9 a.m. to noon, Saturday, October 5, at the Pittsfield Transfer/Recycling Station, at Peltoma Avenue. Residents must call their town office to schedule a slot (Pittsfield, 207-487-3136; Canaan, 207-474-8682; Palmyra, 207-938-4871).
Winslow, Albion, Belgrade, Benton, Clinton, Fairfield, Oakland and Waterville will collect from 8 to 11:30 a.m., Saturday, October 19, at Winslow Public Works, 135 Halifax St. Residents must call their municipal office to schedule a slot (Winslow, 207-872-2776; Belgrade, 207-592-0678; Clinton, 207-426-8322; Fairfield, 207- 453-7911; Oakland, 207-465-7357; Waterville, 207-680-4744).
Those who don’t have an appointment slot made with their town will not be able to drop off that day.
Many chemicals commonly used around the home are hazardous, either alone or when combined with other chemicals, and need to be disposed of by professionals trained to handle hazardous materials,
Improper disposal of these materials can disrupt the function of sewage treatment plants or private septic systems, contaminate ground water, and harm animals and residents. Items that are difficult to recycle or dispose of – such as electronic waste, batteries, paint, anti-freeze, chemical cleaners, yard chemicals, old fuels, oils and mercury thermostats – many of which can also become harmful if left unmonitored.
The Kennebec Valley Council of Governments will have local law enforcement officials on hand in Winslow and Skowhegan to collect and properly dispose of any pharmaceuticals that residents want to bring in.
Local girls participate in last year’s ShineOn Saturday. The 9th annual event connects youth girls with Messalonskee girls soccer players for a fun day of skills, games and positive youth mentoring. ShineOn Saturday is held annually to honor and remember former Eagle midfielder and youth mentor Cassidy Charette. The event is free to all interested girls, Pre-K to Grade 5, on Saturday, September 28, from noon to 2 p.m., at the Messalonskee High School Turf Field, in Oakland. To pre-register, visit shineoncass.org. (contributed photo)
(contributed photo)
Cassidy Charette (contributed photo)
Messalonskee High School Girls Soccer and the ShineOnCass Foundation will host its 9th annual girls’ youth mentoring day “ShineOn Saturday”, September 28, from noon to 2 p.m., on the Messalonskee High School Turf Field, in Oakland. The event is held to honor former Messalonskee soccer player and youth mentor Cassidy Charette, who died in a hayride accident October 11, 2014.
Area girls, ages pre-kindergarten to fifth grade, are invited to attend this free event. Soccer skills are not required. In addition to participating in skill building and fun field games, attendees will receive an autographed team poster and a ShineOnCass wristband that earns them Cassidy’s favorite candy, Skittles, at home games and recognition at the Lady Eagles’ Homecoming game. Healthy snacks will be provided at the event.
To assist in planning, please pre-register at shineoncass.org. Walk-ins are welcome.
The ShineOnCass Foundation was created to educate, inspire and empower youth to shine their own light through kindness and volunteer charitable activities. For more information about the ShineOn Saturday event or the Foundation, visit shineoncass.org or email shineoncass@gmail.com.
(contributed photo)
(contributed photo)