OBITUARIES for Thursday, August 1, 2024

WILLIAM M. WILLIAMSON

 

JEFFERSON – William Moore Williamson, 80, passed away on Wednesday, June 26, 2024. He was born on January 16, 1944, in Chi­cago, Illinois.

Infant Bill was quickly living with his maternal grandparents after the death of his mother from a complicated childbirth and the subsequent deployment of his father on a Navy ship to the Pacific during World War II.

Returning from the war, his father took him to Denver, Colorado, and eventually to Pittsford, New York, where Bill grew up the eldest of a tight family of two sisters and a brother from a second marriage.

He also met the love of his life and best friend forever, Susan Tobey Williamson, in high school there in upstate New York. Together they lived in Japan for a year after Bill’s voluntary tour in Vietnam as a radio operator in a classified signals intelligence unit early in the war. When they returned to the states, he completed degrees at Dartmouth College, in Hanover, New Hampshire, and the business school at the University of Michigan. Susie and Bill had 60 years of marriage and tons of fun raising two boys.

As a father he taught how to have safe adventures by always asking, “What happens next?” He demonstrated by sailing the family around Boston Harbor and across Massachusetts Bay, taking up SCUBA diving, skydiving, and eventually drone piloting.

All the while, Bill continued to stretch his knowledge and technical skill in the fields of electrical engineering, mechanics, boating, and fine woodwork. Eventually his mastery of these subjects would culminate in the construction (as The Computer Guy) of untold computers for clients in midcoast Maine, beautiful built-in cabinetry in his homes, and a masterpiece of a classic wooden motor boat he enjoyed on Damariscotta Lake.

Bill retired early from NYNEX after a decades long career with the telephone company (under many different names) during which he worked as a lineman and then an executive and as a lineman again when needed during union strikes. He knew hard work, believed in honest service at an honest price, and to the utter amazement of everyone he ever spoke to, he understood how to make, take apart, fix and rebuild nearly anything this world offers…and was glad to explain.

A truer patriot-citizen was never created. Bill joined and offered his expertise to many volunteer efforts over the years. Always an animal lover, he helped pave the way for the legalization of ferrets by the Massachusetts Legislature. He also worked tirelessly to create bike and walking trails on abandoned railroad rights of way, starting with the one in the backyard of the family house in Framingham, Massachusetts. His file cabinets, mailbox, and telephone were all overflowing with evidence of the many, many organizations, ballot initiatives and Democratic candidates he supported. Bill embodied fairness, thought independently and proved that we are stronger when we work together to solve problems.

Steadfast, strong and humorous to the very end; kind to everyone; he is missed.

Arrangements are under the direction and care of the Strong-Hancock Funeral Home, 612 Main Street, Damariscotta, ME 04543. Condolences, and messages for his family, may be expressed by visiting: http://www.StrongHancock.com.

GENTRY C. STUART

CHINA – Gentry Carvell Stuart, 16, passed away on Wednesday, July 3, 2024. He was born on November 12, 2007, in Waterville, the son of Willard Jr. and Jessica Stuart.

He was a sophomore at Erskine Academy, in South China, and had future aspirations of attending Thomas College for a degree in finance. He was an excellent student and kind to anyone he ever met. He had a strong passion for genealogy and solving family mysteries.

He is survived by his parents, Willard Stuart Jr., of Chelsea, and Jessica Stuart, of China; his sister Ashley Stuart, of Chelsea; his gram Deb Stuart, of Farmingdale; his grandparents, Roger Levesque and Donna Makowski, of China, and Connie and Gerard Roy, of Winthrop; numerous cousins, aunts, and uncles.

He was predeceased by his grandparents, Willard Stuart Sr. and Beverly Stoddard.

A celebration of life will be held at 13 Stuart Lane, in Farmingdale on Saturday, August 17, starting at 2 p.m.

A full obituary can be found online: Veilleux Funeral Home: vrlfuneralhome.com.

ROBERT A. McQUILLAN

SIDNEY – Robert Arthur McQuillan, 95, of Sidney, passed away on Sunday, July 14, 2024, at MaineGeneral Medical Center, in Augusta, due to injuries resulting from a fall, with several family members at his side until the end. Bob was born in Waterville, September 19, 1928, to the late Doctor Arthur H. and Verna A. McQuillan.

He graduated from Waterville High school in 1947, attended Bowdoin College, in Brunswick, and served in the United States Air Force, stationed in Texas. He married Geraldine C. Pinnette during the famous blizzard of 1952 and had an extremely strong marriage until her death in July 2009. There would never be another for him, he said “once you’ve had the best, why would you settle for less?”

Settling in Waterville after his stint in the service, Bob worked for C.F. Hathaway Shirt Factory, in Waterville, as a production supervisor, followed by roles as Health Club Director for YMCAs, in Waterville and Augusta, ultimately finishing his working career at Rummel’s Ice Cream (now Gifford’s), in Waterville, where he had worked as a teenager, making and delivering ice cream, a job he really enjoyed. He loved his ice cream!

Bob and Jerri moved their family from Waterville to a rundown farm in Sidney in 1969 which became known as “The Farm”, and he was soon busy refitting the house with modern wiring, plumbing and insulation, jacking up the house and barn, and took on raising animals for meat, growing beautiful vegetable gardens, keeping horses and haying local fields, harvesting all the firewood to heat their home, and so much more. Life for him was all about the “doing” and not concerning himself with many of the trappings of modern society.

He had many hobbies including hunting, fishing, camping, boating, snowmobiling and other outdoor oriented pursuits. He and his sons had many adventures cutting wood, trout fishing up north, going down the rivers and fishing on the coast, and he and Rory went to the top of Mt. Washington together for his 89th birthday. His grandchildren also provided and shared many adventures with him, including an Honor Flight to Washington, D.C., moose hunting and white water rafting in his 80s, and they delighted in stopping by The Farm with unexpected treats like hamburgers and lobster rolls or taking him out for an ice cream cone, nearly always strawberry.

He had a lifelong love of country music and got to see many icons of the genre in concert, meeting some along the way. Although he considered himself a Jack of all trades and master of none, he was particularly skilled at making bread, filleting white perch, and felling trees with precision, and enjoyed working his woodpile well into his 80s. He took delight in the fact that he was born the year Walt Disney produced Mickey Mouse and loved Mickey themed items such as his Mickey Mouse watch, sweatshirt, etc., and even named his last cat Mickey.

Bob also found time for civic engagement. He was a YMCA Indian Guide Chief, served on the Sidney Planning Board, and was the first president of the Sidney Snowmobile Club, leading trail clearing efforts, etc. As an example of his generous nature, he donated over 19 gallons of his own blood to the American Red Cross during his lifetime, a practice he continued into his 90s until he was advised it was probably best to keep it for himself at this point.

A voracious reader, Bob read thousands of books in his lifetime and was a regular patron of the Oakland Public Library. His daughter Maureen delighted in driving him there as well as to the numerous medical appointments necessary to help him reach such a ripe old age. His daughter Heidi became a Certified Nurse’s Aide and was instrumental in enabling him to remain in his Sidney home until the end, while Billy kept the legal and financial issues in order and Rory pitched in as needed. In his later years Bob was a very colorful character, easily making friends everywhere he went, telling his stories and serving as a local historian, taking great delight in correcting “facts” occasionally encountered in various publications. Love for him was expressed by many folks inside and outside the family referring to him as “Dad.”

In addition to Jerri, Bob was predeceased by his brother John and twin sisters Kathleen Lord and Elaine Marston.

He is survived by his son Robert McQuillan Jr. (Billy) and wife Jane, of Embden and Winslow, their children Robbie and Kristen McQuillan; his daughter Maureen Morison and husband Robert, of Sidney, and sons Tyler McQuillan and Kyle Morison; his son Rory McQuillan and wife Judy, of Sidney, their children Natasha, Robert E. and Rhea McQuillan; and his daughter Heidi McQuillan, of Sidney, and her sons Dakota and twins Ditrick and Darrien Allard; eight great-grandchildren and six great-great-grandchildren; Ronald Levesque and “Cousin Nephew” John Terczyak.

There will be a celebration of life open to the public at the Waterville Elks Club, Industrial Street, in Waterville, on Saturday, August 3, with the gathering beginning at 10 a.m.

Please visit Robert’s memorial page at https://dsfuneral.com/obituaries/robert-mcquillan where condolences, photos, and special memories may be shared.

JOSEPH CARTER

FAIRFIELD – Joseph Carter, 65, passed away on Monday, July 15, 2024, at his home in Fairfield. He was born in Bitburg, Germany, on June 5, 1959, to Roland and Anna Carter. He graduated from Water­ville High School in 1977.

Joe worked as a specialist craftsman at Pella (formally Duratherm Windows and Doors), in Vassalboro, for 44 years and retired in May 2024.

Joe’s favorite past-times were cooking, gardening, carpentry, cycling, golfing and traveling.

He was predeceased by his parents Roland and Anna Carter; and two younger brothers, Jeff and John.

He is survived by his wife, Carla, of Fairfield; daughter, Tia, her husband Eric and grandson Ethan (who is currently serving in the military in Hawai’i), of Benton; his sister, Jennifer and her husband Joseph Faust; and nephews Derek and Jason LaRocque, from Chesterfield, Virginia.

The service was held on July 26, at Corpus Christi Church, 116 Silver St. in Waterville, directly followed by a reception in the church hall, and then a graveside service at Maple Wood Cemetery, 15 Bartlett St., in Fairfield.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to MGMC Breast Cancer Care Program, P.O. Box 828, Waterville, ME 04903 or online at Give.mainegeneral.org.

DOMINIQUE M. ANDREWS

CHINA ­­– Dominque Madeline Andrews, 23, passed away suddenly of natural causes on July 22, 2024 at home. She was born November 23, 2000, a daughter of Richard L. Andrews Jr. and Michelle M. (Qualey) Andrews.

Dominque, known to her friends and family as “Meeka” grew up in Maine and enjoyed playing soccer, basketball and softball. She graduated from Erskine Academy, in South China, in the class of 2019 and went on to earn an associate degree in biological science from Kennebec Valley Community College, in Fairfield. This spring, Meeka made her family proud by graduating cum laude from the University of Maine at Augusta with a bachelors degree in justice studies. Meeka was aspiring to become a game warden for the State of Maine. She was currently employed at Securitas.

Meeka loved the Maine outdoors and enjoyed spending as much time as possible at camp on Moosehead Lake. A tomboy, she liked to go fishing and had recently taken a hunter’s safety course. Meeka was a member of the Windsor Historical Society and volunteered her time at the Windsor Fair every year.

Meeka will be remembered for her intelligence, strong convictions, and outgoing personality- a friend to all.

She was predeceased by her paternal grandfather, Richard Andrews Sr.

Meeka is survived by her mother, Michelle Andrews and her partner, Dave King; her father, Richard L. Andrews Jr. and his wife, Jeaneffer (Coronado) Andrews; her siblings, Colby Andrews, Nicolas Andrews, and Lloyd Andrews II; her maternal grandfather, Phillip Qualey; her maternal grandmother, Darlene Qualey; her paternal grandmother, Evangeline An­drews; her maternal great grandfather Darrell Boone; her maternal aunt, Carmen Mosher and her husband Harold; and many friends.

A period of visitation will be held on Friday, August 2, from 3 – 4 p.m., at Plummer Funeral Home, 983 Ridge Rd., Windsor, ME 04363 where a memorial service will begin at 4 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Dominque’s name may be made to Windsor Historical Society, P.O. Box 27, Windsor, ME 04363. Condolences, stories and photos may be shared by visiting www.plummerfh.com.

GEORGE M. COREY JR.

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SIDNEY – George M. Corey Jr., 84, Sidney, died peacefully on Monday, July 22, 2024, at MaineGeneral Comfort Care, in Augusta. He was born in Sidney, on July 25, 1939, the son of George Corey, Sr. and Madelene Corey.

George attended Williams High School, in Oakland. Growing up, he developed an incredible work ethic while working in the woods with a team of horses with his father, and as a laborer for area farmers.

He met his future bride, Phyllis Eastman, while employed as a gas station attendant on College Avenue, in Waterville. They were married in 1962 and loved and cared for one another for just a few days short of 62 years. George worked for Harris Bakery, Greeley and Getchell, and Pullen Ford, all in Waterville, as a mechanic. In 1974, George built his dairy farm from the ground up. In 1978, he combined this farm with a larger farm, moving the family, where he continued farming until 1996. At this point, George milled lumber on location with a portable sawmill, harvested wood, helped neighboring farmers and worked as a carpenter for his nephew. He served on the select board in Sidney, mowed cemeteries, cleaned the town office, and worked as an attendant at the transfer station. George was a member of the Masonic Lodge, in Sidney.

George was predeceased by parents, George Corey, Sr. and Madelene Corey; sister and husband, Ruth and Leo J. Grivois; mother-in-law, Ella Eastman; sister-in-law and husband, Rose and Theron Micue Jr.; sister-in-law and husband, Florence and Chester Eames Jr.; and sister-in-law, Wilma Eastman.

He is survived by his wife, Phyllis Corey, of Sidney; sister-in-law, Roberta Brown, and husband, Fremont, of Terryville, Connecticut; daughter Louise Erskine, and husband, Michael, of Sidney; daughter Debra Corey, of Sidney; grandsons, Jacob Erskine, of Bangor; Ryan Erskine, and fiancée, Mikayla Charters, of Farmingdale; nieces, nephews, and cousins.

At George’s request, there will be no service.

Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at http://www.directcremationofmaine.com.

In George’s memory, donations may be made payable to MaineGeneral Hospice, P.O. Box 828, Waterville, ME 04903-0828.

CARLTON E. HUBBARD

 

ALBION – Carlton Edward Hubbard, 48, passed away Wednesday, July 24, 2024, at home in Albion, following a long, hard fought battle with cancer. Carlton was born in Waterville, on May 24, 1976.

Carlton attended Lawrence High School, in Fairfield, was a farm hand for many decades, worked at Orion Rope Works, inWinslow, for 17 years, as a mill wright. He worked at Alcom LLC, in Winslow, for almost 10 years, where he was recently employed as a fabricator and supervisor.

Carlton was a jack of all trades He enjoyed working on small engines, tractors, basically anything with a motor. He was an avid outdoorsman, enjoyed hunting with family and close friends. Carlton enjoyed four wheeling, especially in the mud. Carlton was an extremely hard-working man, always willing to work overtime or side jobs to support his wife and family. Carlton was a very proud and respected man. He would do anything to help a friend or family in need.

Carlton was predeceased by his parents, Larry and Jeannette Hubbard, his father -in-law Bernard “Bunny” Linnell, his brother-in-law Rick Fuller and his nephew Ethan Evers.

Carlton is survived by his wife Elizabeth Hubbard, of 29 years; his son Caleb Hubbard, his daughter Eva Barter and her husband Jared Barter and his two grandsons “ Grampy’s Boys” Bennett and Jasper Barter; his brother Sumner Hubbard and his wife Tina; his brother Howard Hubbard and his special friend Gwen; and his sister Everlyn Hubbard; his mother-in-law Wyone Linnell; and many sister in-laws and brother in-laws; many nieces and nephews and many great nieces and nephews.

The funeral will be held on Saturday, August 24, 2024, at 10 a.m., at Veilleux-Reddington-Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, at 8 Elm Street, Waterville, Maine 04901.

In lieu of flowers, please contact the family.

MARGO J. VINCENT

WATERVILLE – Margo J. Vincent, 75, died peacefully on February 28, 2024, in Waterville. A graveside burial in Southside Cemetery, Skowhegan, took place on Wednesday, July 31.

Arrangements are in the care of Lawry Brothers Funeral Home, where memories of Margo may be shared online by visiting http://www.lawrybrothers.com.

Others Departed

LOUISE D. YOUNG

AUGUSTA – Louise D. Young, 76, long time resident of Augusta, died Saturday, July 20, 2024, at High Point Hospice House, Haverhill, Massachu­setts, following a long illness. She was born in Augusta, on December 1, 1947, a daughter of the late Lionel J. and Lucie (Bilodeau) Dumont.

Mrs. Young was a graduate of Cony High School, in Augusta. She had been employed by the Department of Veterans Affairs at the Togus VA Hospital for over 35 years. After she retired, she spent quality time with family and friends and lived each summer on Damariscotta Lake.

Mrs. Young was pre-deceased by her husband, Maynard R. “Bob” Young, III.

She is survived by her daughter, Katherine Young Fergus and her partner Chris Machold, of Andover, Massachusetts; two sons, Christopher R. Young and his wife Julie, and Jason A. Young and his wife Elizabeth, all of Marlborough, Massachusetts; 10 grandchildren, Alex, Maddie, Matthew, Thea, Katie, Ryan, Elyse, Bridget, Declan and Giada; three sisters, Arlene Davis, of Augusta; Patricia Guerrette, of Industry, and Doris Baker, of Nobleboro; as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Friday, July 26, at at St. Augustine Catholic Church, Northern Ave., Augusta. Burial followed at the new Maine Veterans Memorial Cemetery, Mt. Vernon Rd., Augusta.

Condolences, stories, and photos may be shared through the funeral home website at: http://www.plummerfh.com.

The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations in Louise’s memory be made to the Maynard “Bob” Young Memorial Scholarship Fund, soon to be named the Maynard “Bob” and Louise Young Memorial Scholarship Fund, 375 South Main Street, Andover, Massachusetts 01810. The scholarship supports graduating seniors interested in pursuing education as a field of study.

LETTERS: Will not seek re-election

To the editor:

I would like to thank the residents of China for supporting me over the last five years in my role on the select board. I have learned a lot about local government and have enjoyed representing your interests. However, I will not be seeking another term. Nomination papers are now available for the November election at the Town Office, and I encourage you to get involved and run for my spot. It’s time for some new faces.

The most important lesson from my experience is that you really can make a difference. Even when I disagree with my colleagues on the Board, I still enjoy the respectful and collaborative process that generally leads to a consensus.

It is also always a pleasure to work with our exceptional Town Manager, Becky Hapgood. Becky is extremely capable and hard working, and her historical knowledge of the Town and its residents is extraordinary. She truly loves China, and she treats everyone with respect and kindness. We are very fortunate to have her leadership.

It has truly been an honor to serve you, and I urge you to take a turn. We need a new generation of fresh ideas to move China forward. You really can make a difference!

With respect and appreciation,

Janet Preston
China Select Board

VETERANS CORNER: Flat feet are common and have many causes

by Gary Kennedy

First I will apologize to our readers as I had promised to continue my VA series but for some reason I have misplaced two articles. I will start today by briefly defining some of the questions asked of me and then elaborate on a particular issue. We can do this each week. Thousands of subscribers read this column so I am very sure we are bound to eventually cross paths with your question.

It’s no problem jumping out of context now and then. One of the questions on my list is Pes Planes. Pes Planus is a Latin word for simply, flat feet. Why medical words have to be so difficult is beyond me. You would think something this important would be made easy for lay people such as us. Anyway, flat feet are extremely common and have many possible causations. This disorder can occur in children and adults. Here we are primarily concerned with military connotation and applications. With flat feet the interior arch of the foot/feet touches the floor. There are several types of flat feet but in all cases you will derive the same arch dysfunction.

In all actuality flat feet are not allowed in the military. I believe most are overlooked. Flat feet are for the most part an inherited condition. The fear of acceptance of individuals in the military is the possible and most likely progression of the problem over time. Pes Planus is like the growth of a tree. The growth is obviously upward and outward, and so is the nature of the problem. If you are very athletic in the military and you have this problem it is bound to climb the trunk and affect the limbs as well.

In my many years of being around the V.A. and having been a medical specialist in the Army I have seen many foot problems which have affected the entire body eventually. So never say that a zero percent Pes Planus can’t lead to a 100 percent total body. It all depends on how hard and long your body has been abused. Flat Feet (Pes Planus) can be a disability that can limit mobility and cause chronic pain. The pain and discomfort associated with flat feet can make it difficult to live a normal life, potentially leading to other physical disabilities. In this case disability can be literally one step at a time.

Bilateral acquired flat feet if severe with deformity and pain, swelling and callosities can carry a possible rating of 30-50 percent disability, on its own. Also, there are many addendums that could be connected to this scenario. A married veteran with 30 percent rated disability would receive approximately $586.31 and $1,179.16 for 50 percent. The 100 percent rating amount currently is approximately $ 3,946.25.

The problem that began with a veteran’s feet can evolve over time to include his/her entire spine due to many other adjunct factors. That is just one example so it is smart to speak with someone who knows how to follow your career’s paper trail. I have only given you one possible way to reach the 100 percent over time using a simple, but possible example. Of course, most veterans with the high percentages start with much more severe trauma. However, most of what I have told you is a pathway to increased percentages. Many veterans go through life believing they don’t deserve any compensation for injuries. That is totally up to you.

Uncle Sam entered into an agreement with you when you enlisted. He promised to take care of you and yours if anything were to happen to you, that includes physical, emotional and death. Don’t go it alone. Be truthful and explain all your pain. The service officer will help you carry the ball from there. There is always on appeal process.

God bless you and yours and have a good safe weekend.

CHINA: Town revaluation puts property values near 100 percent

by Mary Grow

China select board members heard information at their July 29 meeting that they hope will let them set the 2024-25 local tax rate at their Aug. 12 meeting.

Assessor William Van Tuinen said state officials had approved his revaluation of China property. By increasing land values by 10 percent and building values by 20 percent across the board, he brought China’s valuation close enough to actual prices to count as the 100 percent valuation the state wants.

Mobile homes Van Tuinen said he treated differently. Since they had not been revalued for some time, he increased their valuations more, though he kept in mind the lower value of older mobile homes.

With this work done and approved, Van Tuinen said he probably can give selectmen the information and tax rate options they need before their next meeting.

The valuation adjustments do not mean that tax bills will increase by 10 and 20 percent; higher valuations allow a lower tax rate. However, increased expenditures this fiscal year over last year will raise local taxes.

Nomination papers now available

Nomination papers for China local elective offices became available Monday, July 29. Town Manager Rebecca Hapgood presented a list of those whose terms expire this year:

On the select board: Brent Chesley, Blane Casey and Janet Preston;
On the budget committee: secretary (vacant), District 2 (Taryn Hotham), District 4 (Timothy Basham) and at large (Elizabeth Curtis); and
RSU #18 Director: T. James Bachinski.

Signed nomination papers must be returned to the town office by Friday, Sept. 6, for candidates’ names to be on the Nov. 5 local ballot.

On another topic, a petition presented at the July 29 meeting asked for a public meeting to discuss and vote on a moratorium on high-voltage transmission lines or corridors passing through the town. Town Manager Rebecca Hapgood said the petition was started in October 2023 and recently received the required number of signatures.

The three board members present, Jeanne Marquis, Brent Chesley and chairman Wayne Chadwick, discussed whether to schedule a special town meeting, hoping the required 100 voters would show up, or whether to put a transmission line/corridor moratorium ordinance on a Nov. 5 local ballot. On Chadwick’s recommendation, they postponed action until a full board is present.

Hapgood said the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has approved one of China’s three requests for storm damage reimbursement, authorizing a grant of more than $48,000 to cover costs of cleaning up roadside brush and debris. State officials are reviewing the grant, she said. There has been no action yet on the other grant applications.

She presented a brief report on a violation of China’s solid waste ordinance: a seasonal resident entered the transfer station on a Monday, a day it is closed, to leave trash before returning to his year-round
home.

The man self-reported, Hapgood said, perhaps because an attendant saw and recorded him.

The maximum penalty could have been a $700 fine, Hapgood said. Board members considered that it was a first offense and self-reported and imposed a $100 fine.

Board members unanimously approved a renewal license for Wildwood Pawn, Inc., on Gunshop Road north of China Village.

They approved more end-of-fiscal year business, allocating money unspent before June 30 to 2024-25 accounts or reserve funds. They approved contracts for town functions, as Hapgood recommended.

Hapgood reported that Julia Gagnon, Maine’s American Idol contestant earlier this year, will sing at the barbecue that is scheduled for 5:30 p.m., Friday, Aug. 2, at the ballfields by China Middle School, on Lakeview Drive. Barbecue tickets were almost sold out by July 29.

The Aug. 1 – 3 China Community Days schedule is available on line on the China Community Days Facebook page and on the town website, chinamaine.org.

August China select board meetings are scheduled for Monday evening, Aug. 12, and Monday evening, Aug. 26.

Planners OK water district shoreland zoning permit in 15 minutes

by Mary Grow

Vassalboro Planning Board members needed only a quarter-hour-long July 23 meeting to approve the Kennebec Water District’s application for a shoreland zoning permit on Outlet Stream near the KWD plant on Route 32.

KWD General Manager Roger Crouse and Water Quality Manager Robbie Bickford had presented the plan to the select board in June (see the June 20 issue of The Town Line, p. 3). They filed a planning board application that Bickford and Project Engineer Max Kenney reviewed briefly at the July 23 meeting.

The permit is for a pipeline under Route 32, from the plant on the west side of the road, that will carry used filter-cleaning water into Outlet Stream. Bickford and Kenney explained that KWD needs to dig up the road and wants to do it before the Maine Department of Transportation rebuilds parts of it and repaves this summer.

“We just need to be under the road before they pave it,” Kenney said. Waiting to dig up fresh pavement would be significantly more expensive.

To accent the point, MDOT crews were working on the road in front of the town office as the planning board met.

Tunneling was a less safe option than opening the pavement, Bickford said, because there are already under that section of road a water main, a sewer main and two fiberoptic cables.

KWD’s application provided detailed plans for the pipe, which will open into an outfall channel between Route 32 and Outlet Stream. Bickford explained to the planning board, as he had to the select board, that the water from the plant will add no contaminants and no significant volume to the stream; it might slightly increase the oxygen level, he said.

If China Lake and Outlet Stream were to flood again, KWD could reduce its discharge, he said, and being completely underwater would not harm the discharge channel.

Planning board members conditioned their unanimous approval on receiving for their files a copy of the easement allowing KWD to cross the lot between the road and the stream. Bickford promised it.

Since Vassalboro is now without a codes officer, Town Manager Aaron Miller filled in as secretary for the planning board. He said David Savage, from Oakland, is assisting with essential codes enforcement duties while Vassalboro seeks applicants to fill the position. The arrangement is working well, he said.

The next regular Vassalboro planning board meeting will be Tuesday evening, Aug. 6. Miller said as of July 23, there was one pending application.

Vassalboro first responders receive $17,500 grant from blue ribbon commission

by Mary Grow

Money was a major theme at the July 25 Vassalboro select board meeting, and for once, some was coming in instead of going out.

Vassalboro First Responders Chief Dan Mayotte was the first person with good news (and a request): the First Responders recently received a $17,300 grant, part of the recommendations from the Blue Ribbon Commission the Maine legislature created in 2023.

Plans to use the money include providing tuition for members who want to get advanced EMT (Emergency Medical Technician) training, and paying a member to spend a few hours a week doing paperwork, checking gear and doing other managerial tasks.

Mayotte said Vassalboro has the most First Responders of any area town. With a successful group and a grant, he asked select board members to support an application to move to a higher license level, from EMT to Advanced EMT. Part of the grant money would be used for the application process and for some additional equipment.

The higher license would let members perform additional life-saving services when needed, for instance if an ambulance were delayed, Mayotte said.

He foresaw no additional major expenditures if the unit were licensed as Advanced EMT. He told Town Manager Aaron Miller the change would not affect insurance costs.

The two select board members present July 25, chairman Frederick “Rick” Denico, Jr., and Chris French, authorized Mayotte and Miller to work on getting the new license.

At the end of the select board meeting, Recreation Director Karen Hatch displayed another result of a successful grant: in the meeting room was one of the raised garden boxes that will be set up in front of the town office. The project is funded with a Community Challenge Grant from AARP (formerly the American Association of Retired Persons); see the July 18 issue of The Town Line, p. 8, for more information.

Between those two pieces of good news, Miller and board members talked about:

The on-going multi-party discussion of the China Lake water level and the outlet dam in East Vassalboro;
Plans to replace Dunlap Bridge on Mill Hill Road, an expensive project that involves the town and its engineering firm, Calderwood Engineering, of Richmond, and the state Department of Transportation; and
Next steps in dealing with two foreclosed properties, at 14 Priest Hill Road and 159 Lombard Dam Road.

Board members approved Miller’s list of town manager’s appointments. They appointed Bruce Lancaster to the Vassalboro Trails Committee, and Jordan Cayouette as the Recreation Committee member heading the soccer program.

They agreed by consensus to offer for sale a 12-by-16-foot gazebo, bought by a past recreation director some years ago and never taken from its box and assembled. Miller recommended sale proceeds be set aside in a fund for a similar project should Hatch so recommend.

The manager reported that the Delta Ambulance board of directors is considering asking towns it serves for a 2025 fee of $35 per resident. No decision was made, he emphasized.

By town meeting vote, Delta is receiving $25 a head for fiscal year 2024, up from $15 in FY 2023. During budget discussions, there was talk of a possible 2025 fee as high as $45.

Miller reported on proposed measures to slow traffic approaching the East Vassalboro four corners, which he said should be in place by the end of August. The plan was worked out by the local East Vassalboro Village Project Team and the state Department of Transportation, whose cooperation Miller praised.

Also earning praise, from Miller and from public works department spokesman Brian Lajoie, was Lucas Striping, of Readfield, for donating pavement striping at the newly-paved Vassalboro Historical Society parking lot.

Lajoie told board members the public works department is seeking bids for its new building. He hopes the building will go up this fall.

The next regular Vassalboro select board meeting is scheduled for Thursday evening, Aug. 8.

Unique Hawai’ian public supper at Vassalboro Methodist Church

From left to right, Simone Antworth, Nancy Adams and Pastor Karen Merrill, from the Vassalboro United Methodist Church, are preparing for a Hawai’ian luau at the public supper slated for Saturday, August 17. (contributed photo)

The Vassalboro United Methodist Church (VUMC) monthly public supper is taking a twist on Saturday, August 17, from their traditional menu. One of the organizers, Simone Antworth said, “We had been thinking for some time about offering pulled pork as an alternative and when we realized that Hawai’i is celebrating 65 years of statehood in August we decided to honor Hawai’i by offering some of their traditional foods this time.” We will be serving our usual baked beans in addition to some made like they do in Hawaii as well as pulled pork, shrimp dishes, breads, salads and desserts all cooked with a tropical flair. “The Hawai’ians love Spam so we might sneak in a dish using that – and there will be pineapple dishes, of course! There will be surprises too,” said Antworth with a smile. “Guests will have to find out about those when they get there.” The supper will take place 4:30 – 6, unless food runs out before, for a $10 suggested donation per person. So join VUMC on August 17 for a great meal, and a fun-filled Hawai’ian luau celebration.

Public suppers are held at VUMC every third Saturday, May through October. Proceeds support the operating costs of the church and bolster member’s current efforts towards broadening accessibility to online and on-site services and programs.

Harvey Boatman, accessibility project coordinator said, “Our fundraising goal to improve accessibility is $80,000 which will make it possible for us to install safety and accessibility features inside the church. In addition to individual donations and proceeds from fundraising events we have raised $57,500 in grants from the Sukeforth Foundation, the United Meth­odist New En­gland Con­ference, the Maine Com­mu­nity Foundation, the United Meth­odist Foundation of New England, Joni & Friends Christian Fund for the Disabled and an anonymous $10,000 matching grant. We are encouraged and feel grateful for such generous support. Recently though, we discovered a problem that necessitates an additional $43,000 for repairs to the roof and steeple. Raising the funds necessary for that on top of what we are already doing adds an increased level of strain on our congregation. We need support from the community.”

VUMC was built in 1988 and serves as a community center for people of Vassalboro and surrounding towns who come to attend Sunday services, special programs, concerts, public suppers and more. VUMC members provide outreach through participation in the local fuel fund, food pantry, senior programs, Scouting, kids’ scholarships to Camp Mechuwana and by delivering welcome baskets to new residents. VUMC also organizes and publishes a community calendar each year, and delivers them door to door throughout town.

FMI visit Vassalboro United Methodist Church on Facebook, phone Pastor Karen Merrill at (207) 873-5564 or email karenmerrill62@gmail.com.

Cruisin’ for a Cure car show raises over $21,000 for Maine Children’s Cancer program

On July 18, a gathering was held for a special photo opportunity with Grace Jandro and Molly Herman, from the Maine Children’s Cancer Program, to present them with a check for $21,221.49 raised. Alongside them, New Dimensions’ Cruisin’ For A Cure Car Show chairmen can be seen in the check presentation, from left to right, Dani Farmer, Angela Hallee, David Alberico, Ryan Poulin, Sharon Storti, Grace Jandro, Molly Herman, and Tammy Poissonnier. (photo courtesy of New Dimensions Federal Credit Union)

The 10th Annual Cruisin’ for A Cure Car Show, hosted by New Dimensions Federal Credit Union, on June 1, 2024, was a huge success! Held at the Robert LaFleur Airport, the event saw 168 car owners and enthusiasts as well as hundreds of spectators come together for a day filled with classic cars and community spirit, all in support of a great cause.

With the sun shining brightly, the car show featured a dazzling array of vehicles, from timeless classics to the latest models. The highlight of the day was the remarkable total of $21,221.49 raised for the Maine Children’s Cancer Program (MCCP), located in Scarborough, a division of the Barbara Bush Children’s Hospital. This generous donation will provide essential support and funding for children fighting cancer.

The event’s excitement peaked with the presentation of awards, including the People’s Choice Award to David Weeks for his beautiful 1951 Convertible Mercury and the Best of Show Award to Mike Reynolds for his striking 1969 Chevy Camaro RS.

“We’re thrilled with the success of this year’s event and deeply grateful for the support from our community, sponsors, and volunteers,” said Ryan Poulin, CEO of New Dimensions Federal Credit Union. “It’s amazing to see how our collective efforts make a real impact in the fight against childhood cancer in Maine.”

Some of the 168 cars on hand for the Cruisin’ for A Cure car show, held at Waterville’s Robert LeFleur Airport, on June 1, sponsored by New Dimensions Federal Credit Union. (photo by Roland D. Hallee)

Issue for July 25, 2024

Issue for July 25, 2024

Celebrating 36 years of local news

Celebrating 75 Years: China Historical Society annual meeting and China Elementary School Anniversary

The annual meeting of the China Historical Society, held on Thursday, July 18, was a delightful blend of business and nostalgia. This year, the meeting doubled as a celebration of the 75th anniversary of the China Elementary School, a cornerstone of our community since 1949. The event, hosted in the gymnasium of what is now the China Middle School, saw about three dozen attendees come together to reminisce and reflect…. by Eric W. Austin

Drew Ketterer presented with Lifetime Achievement award by Maine Bar Assn.

At the annual summer meeting of the Maine State Bar Association, held in Bar Harbor, Attorney Drew Ketterer was honored with a Lifetime Achievement award…

Town News

Select board elects William Appel Jr., chairman; introduce Nichole Stenberg as new town assessor

WINDSOR – At the beginning of the June 18 Windsor Select Board meeting, Town Manager Theresa Haskell said the first order of business was to elect a board chairman…

MERIT: If we build it, will they save?

CENTRAL ME – When Maine set out to develop a way to make retirement savings accessible to more workers, it was somewhat of a “field of dreams” moment for all those who had advocated for the Work & Save program including AARP Maine…

Name that film!

Identify the film in which this famous line originated and qualify to win FREE passes to The Maine Film Center, in Waterville: “A man’s got to know his limitations.” Email us at townline@townline.org with subject “Name that film!” Deadline for submission is August 8, 2024.

Webber’s Pond comic

Webber’s Pond is a comic drawn by a local central Maine resident (click on the thumbnail to enlarge)…

Anson Scout achieves Eagle rank

ANSON – Nick Gower, of Anson, received the Eagle Scout rank, the highest award in Scouting, during a ceremony held on July 13 at the Garret Schenck School. His Eagle Scout project was a benefit to the American Legion…

Laura Jones announces campaign for State House Representative

VASSALBORO – Laura Jones, retired Air Foce lieutenant colonel, and Vassalboro native, has announced her election campaign for House District #61, Vassalboro, and part of Sidney…

Mid-Maine Chamber of Commerce golf tournament fundraiser great success

WATERVILLE – Central Maine’s most prize-laden golf tournament fundraiser was held on Monday, June 17, at Waterville Country Club. Thirty-six teams took part in the shotgun start scramble…

Rotary Club of Waterville installs new officers

WATERVILLE – Lindsey Cameron, of Waterville, was installed as president of the Rotary Club of Waterville during the club’s meeting on July 15, 2024, at Best Western Plus, in Waterville. Also installed were President-elect Michele Prince, Sarah Wadick, Treasurer, and Secretary Buffy Higgins…

R. B. Hall Memorial Band to honor Selma Pulcifur at concert

OAKLAND – The R.B. Hall Memorial Band will present an outdoor concert at Waterfront Park, in Oakland, on Tuesday, August 13, at 6 p.m., to honor Selma Pulcifur, who passed away in December…

Inaugural Margaret Peacock Community Hero Award honors Watershed Partners

WINTHROP – The 21st annual Lakeside Libations & Celebration fundraiser for the Friends of the Cobbossee Watershed (FOCW) on August 22 will honor longtime watershed partners with the inaugural Margaret Peacock Community Hero Award. Margaret, who passed away in 2019, was known for her volunteerism and love for her community…

Local students on Tufts University dean’s list

CENTRAL ME — Tufts University, in Medford, Massachusetts, recently announced the dean’s list for the Spring 2024 semester. They are Cole Bazakas, Class of 2027, of Waterville, and Bella Wallingford, Class of 2026, of Oakland.

Maeve Blanchette makes Goodwin dean’s list

AUGUSTA — Maeve Blanchette, of Augusta, has earned a spot on the Goodwin University dean’s list for Spring 2024, in EastHartford, Connecticut.

Jasmine Daly graduates from Clarkson University

SoCHINA – Jasmine Marie Daly, of South China, received a bachelor of science degree with distinction in political science, law studies minor, environmental policy minor, psychology, from Clarkson University, in Potsdam, New York, on May 11, 2024.

Ashley Carrier graduates from Shenandoah University

MADISON – Ashley Carrier, of Madison, was among the 1,247 graduates who received their degrees and/or certificates from Shenandoah University, in Winchester, Virginia, during the 2023-24 academic year. She earned a master of public health.

St. Lawrence University students named to dean’s list

CENTRAL ME – St. Lawrence University, in Canton, New York, congratulates more than 680 students named to the dean’s list for the Spring 2024 semester. Among them are local residents Tanley Tibbetts, of Chelsea, and Sam Voter, of Cornville.

Local happenings

EVENTS: Save the date for Taste of Waterville

WATERVILLE – Mid-Maine Chamber of Commerce’s 32nd Annual Taste of Waterville is planned for Wednesday, July 31, from noon to 10 p.m., at the Head of Falls off Front Street, in downtown Waterville…

EVENTS: Learn more about loons and loon restoration at Sheepscot Lake Assn. annual meeting

PALERMO – The Sheepscot Lake Association will be hosting Maine Audubon Biologist Ethan Daly at their annual meeting Thursday, July 25, to discuss the Audubon’s Loon Restoration Project. Ethan Daly will be discussing Loon Restoration…

EVENTS: Maine Open Farm Day set for Sunday, July 28

CENTRAL ME – Experience farm life and learn about the origins of your food on Maine Open Farm Day, held this year on Sunday, July 28. This annual event is a fantastic opportunity for families, educators, and anyone curious about agriculture to connect with farmers and explore Maine’s vitally important agricultural community…

EVENTS: Food, Fun, and Friends meet at the community cookout

PALERMO – The fun begins at 4 p.m., on Saturday, August 3, at 26 Veterans Way, in Palermo, as people gather for a celebration of summer in the Palermo Community Garden behind the gray mobile home…

EVENTS: “No Spring Chickens” & prizes at Democratic lobster bake

WALDOBORO – “No Spring Chickens” – Two chicks with guitars, dynamic vocals, and lush harmonies” – will provide music during the Lincoln County Democratic Committee (LCDC) Family Fun Day Lobster Bake on Sunday, Aug. 4, in Waldoboro…

EVENTS: Oakfest scheduled for July 26-28

OAKLAND – Come experience a weekend of family fun Friday through Sunday, July 26 – July 28, and see why Oakfest is rated among the “10 Best Outdoor Festivals in Maine” this summer!…

CALENDAR OF EVENTS: Albion celebrates 200 years

ALBION – A full day of activities is planned for Saturday, July 27, 2024. Starting with a 10 a.m. Parade led by 195th Army National Guard Band, on Main Street; followed by food, entertainment for all ages, games, contests, Beano, photo contest, displays, etc… and many other local events!

Obituaries

OAKLAND – Timothy S. Trask, 65, passed away suddenly on Monday, July 8, 2024. Tim was born January 29, 1959, to Stacy U. Trask and Carolyn L. (Treat) Trask, of Oakland…

Up and down the Kennebec Valley: Waterville (new)

WATERVILLE HISTORY — Waterville, now a city, started as the part of Winslow on the west bank of the Kennebec River. In the 1902 centennial history, editor and writer Edwin Carey Whittemore traced Winslow/ Waterville’s origin from Native American settlements onward… by Mary Grow

Up and down the Kennebec Valley: Fairfield

FAIRFIELD HISTORY — This article brings readers to Fairfield, northernmost of the four municipalities in this series on the west bank of the Kennebec River. Fairfield is across the river from Benton and Clinton. Fairfield is one of the two towns in the series outside Kennebec County; it is far enough north to be in Somerset County… by Mary Grow

Up and down the Kennebec Valley: Albion

ALBION HISTORY — Of the town and city names your writer has explored in this subseries, none has yet been as frustrating as the Town of Albion. Sources agree on names and dates. In 1802, Freetown Plantation was incorporated, including most of present-day Albion and the northern end of what is now the separate town of China… by Mary Grow

Up and down the Kennebec Valley: China – Palermo

CHINA/PALERMO HISTORY — The next town north of Windsor is China, which, like Windsor, began life as a plantation and did not acquire its present name for some years after the first Europeans settled there… by Mary Grow

Common Ground: Win a $10 gift certificate!

DEADLINE: Wednesday, August 15, 2024

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

Previous winner: Nancy Marston, Weeks Mills

Town Line Original Columnists

Roland D. HalleeSCORES & OUTDOORS

by Roland D. Hallee | This may not have anything to do with nature, but I think it qualifies. Nothing is more irritating, to me, at least, than walking into a cobweb as I’m exiting the house or camp. So, that prompted the question, what is the difference between a cobweb and a spider web?…

CRITTER CHATTER

by Jayne Winters | As noted in last month’s article, rehabber Don Cote at Duck Pond Wildlife Care Center was hospitalized for a week in late May. I’m relieved and happy to report that his recovery at home is going well and as we expected, it didn’t take long before he started taking calls about orphaned and injured critters. In fact, we recently purchased a new answering machine with a volume enhancer so he doesn’t miss any…

Peter CatesREVIEW POTPOURRI

by Peter Cates | Still living in her 80s, poet Roberta Chester has written articles for different newspapers in Maine and taught English at UMO, College of the Atlantic and in Israel…

FOR YOUR HEALTH

(NAPSI) | The latest GeneSight® Mental Health Monitor survey shows that nearly half of Americans feel they have lost time in their lives due to poor mental health. Courtney Nugent suffered a decade-long struggle with anxiety…

FOR YOUR HEALTH: When Planning International Travel, Measles Vaccination is Peace of Mind for the Whole Family

Before you travel with kids, it’s a good idea to make sure they’ve been vaccinated against measles.

by Dr. David Sugerman

(NAPSI)—As a parent, I know that preparing for international travel with kids is more than just packing a suitcase. Whether we are visiting relatives we haven’t seen for a long time or helping our children see the world, we all can agree that protecting our family’s health is the top priority. As a doctor, I know that beyond sorting out missing socks and packing suitcases, there is another important step to prepare for international travel: measles vaccination. Your whole family needs to be protected by measles vaccination, including babies as young as six months old.

While the risk for measles in the U.S. remains thankfully low due to high rates of immunization, measles can occur anywhere in the world, and you can be exposed during international travel. Every year, U.S. residents who are unvaccinated get measles while traveling internationally and get sick after they come home, often spreading it to others. Measles is more than just a little rash; it’s a serious disease that can cause severe complications, especially in young children. Measles is also highly contagious. If one person has it, up to nine out of 10 people nearby can become infected if they are not vaccinated.

The good news is that two doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine provide safe, long-lasting protection against measles. While most children receive their first dose of MMR vaccine around one year old, babies as young as six months old who are traveling overseas should get an early dose to help protect them when they are the most vulnerable. And while most children get their second dose after the age of four, children between one and four years of age should get a second dose before traveling internationally to provide the best protection.

Why risk being exposed away from home when you can protect the whole family by vaccination? It takes about two weeks to develop protection from the vaccine, so now is the time to plan before you take a trip. If your trip is less than two weeks away, you can still get a dose of MMR vaccine. As a reminder, college kids or young adults traveling might need a dose, too, if they didn’t get all of them as a children. As a doctor, I hope you will talk with your own doctor, nurse, or clinic about measles vaccination to protect the whole family. As a dad, I might never find that missing sock – but I’ll have peace of mind knowing my family is protected from disease by vaccination.

You can learn more about measles vaccination and how to plan for travel here at: https://www.cdc.gov/measles/travel/index.html.

Dr. David Sugerman is a medical officer in the Division of Viral Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).