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

The late Selma Pulcifur

by Jane Brogan

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.

Selma was an institution, both in her community and among the countless musicians who were privileged to have known her over the years. She was the last surviving charter member of the R. B. Hall Memorial Band, where she played trombone for 55 years and served in various offices, including president.

In 2019, on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the band, Sel­ma recounted in an interview that she began playing in 1944 when a friend told her the school band director needed a trombone. Selma laughed, “And I said, “What’s a trombone?” Selma fondly recalled, “I tried this old trombone, and, oh, it had the most beautiful tone, and I just fell in love with it.”

Selma played trombone for over 75 years, last performing with the R.B. Hall Band in the summer of 2022 at the Clinton Fair, a long-standing tradition and her favorite.

“I have to admit I’m getting older, but get me in a chair and I can play. I still have lots of wind. It’s natural.”

Sadly, the hot weather prevented her from performing at the fair in 2023, as she had hoped to do.

Selma’s final words in the interview were “I just hope I never have to give up the band. It’s been a very important part of my life.”

In gratitude for her contribution to keeping the community band tradition alive in Maine, the annual R.B. Hall Day festival, held in Bridgton this year, was dedicated to Selma.

The August 13 concert is free of charge. Audience members are asked to bring a lawn chair.

(The 2019 interview by Central Maine Newspapers is available on YouTube: “Selma Pulsifer plays on…”)

Anson Scout achieves Eagle rank

Elizabeth Daisey pins the Eagle Scout medal on her son’s uniform. (photo by Chuck Mahaleris)

by Chuck Mahaleris

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. The Tardiff-Belanger American Legion Post in Madison has a new, custom-made fire pit for the proper retirement of United States flags that have become faded, ripped or worn. “I am so proud of Nick,” said Troop #481 Scoutmaster Darlene Taylor, of Starks.

Nick Gower’s Eagle Scout project. (photo by Chuck Mahaleris)

“Every challenge that has come your way, you have conquered. Your project has been used to honor our nation’s flag. What a worthy project.”

“America has many good things to give you and your children after you; but these good things depend for the most part on the quality of its citizens,” said fellow Troop #481 Eagle Scout Devyn DeLeonardis who received his Eagle medal last December. “Our country has a great past. You can help make sure it has an even greater future. I charge you to undertake your citizenship with solemn dedication. Be a leader, but lead only towards the best. Lift every task you do and every office you hold to the highest levels of service to God and your fellow man.”

Speaking about Nick, Skip Pond, who served as Master of Ceremonies, said, “I have shown the whole world that Scouting is in my heart. I have mastered the knowledge of subjects that will benefit my country and my fellow man.”

Nick received congratulatory letters from local and national political officials and also from leaders of veterans organizations such as the Marine Corps League and the American Legion. Patricia “Tricia” Thurston, Commander of the Department of Maine American Legion, attended and presented Nick with a replica Eagle feather and a certificate from the organization.

Nick’s mother, Elizabeth Daisey, pinned the Eagle medal on her son’s uniform and he in turn presented her with roses and the Mother’s Pin for her support of his Scouting efforts. Nick also presented his father, Dustin Gower, with an Eagle Scout Father’s Pin.

Scoutmaster Taylor added, “Nicholas, I am so proud of you and all you have accomplished in Boy Scouts. It was a wonderful experience climbing this mountain with you. Now spread your wings and fly!”

Rotary Club of Waterville installs new officers

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.

In addition, the following members will serve on the club’s board of directors:

Doug Carnrick, Sergeant-at-arms, John Dalton, Community Service Chairman, Tom Shupe, Foundation Committee Chairman, Jordyn Woodard, Public Relations Committee Chairman, Jim Chapman, Ways & Means Committee Chairman, Jennifer Casey, Membership Committee Chairman, Roger Crouse and Hannah Bard, Administrative Committee Co-Chairmen, Karen Normandin, Vocational Services Chairman, and Ken Vlodek, International Service Chairman.

The immediate past president is Dan Eccher. He will continue to serve on the club board for the next year.

Prior to this appointment Lindsey Cameron served as Interim Membership Chairman. She has actively participated in the club’s annual Radio Auction decorating committee chairman, helping organize and execute the Spring Auction and Social, as well as attended PETS and was on the Committee for District Governor (2023-2024) Tina Chapman’s District 7790 Conference this past June.

For the 2024/2025-year Rotary’s theme is “The Magic of Rotary” which is a call for Rotary to create hope in the world by working for peace and mental wellbeing.

The Rotary Club of Waterville supports community projects such as support of local food pantries, college scholarships, Mid-Maine Homeless Shelter, Rhoda Reads Early Literacy Program, and trail maintenance of local hiking trails. The club raises money for projects by the two annual auctions, one online in the Fall with radio promotion and the other in the Spring with a Live and Silent Auction.

“People in our local communities and around the world need help overcoming problems and challenges,” said Lindsey. “Our club passionately engages in service above self by leveraging member talents and club resources to help people and communities thrive, prosper and grow”.

The Rotary Club of Waterville, on Facebook at Waterville Rotary Club and Instagram at @waterville_rotary, welcomes new members who, as people of action, seek to volunteer their skills and resources to solve issues and address community needs. Information about becoming a member is available at watervillerotary.com/ or by attending the weekly meeting at noon on Mondays, at the Best Western Plus Hotel, in Downtown Waterville, 375 Main Street, Waterville, ME 04901.

OBITUARIES for Thursday, July 25, 2024

TIMOTHY S. TRASK

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.

He was raised in a large, blended family that helped nurture his love of sports. His love of basketball in particular, along with his natural talent, earned him three varsity letters, a Most Valuable Player trophy, a captain’s pin, and many other honors, before graduating in 1977 from Messalonskee High School, in Oakland.

After time served in the U.S. Army National Guard, and then the U.S. Army, Tim returned to Oakland. He had various jobs over the years, but for the last 25 years he was self- employed, as well as managing two apartment buildings. Tim was the go-to person for so many, and not just his big, extensive family. If you needed your lawn done, a house painted, or locks changed, he was there.

Tim loved a good laugh, and a good meal. Many memories were made on snowmobiling trips, smelting, fishing, and boating on Snow Pond [Messalonskee Lake] where he rented a camp with Valerie and Tina. He was hilarious, and especially loved making his sisters laugh, often ending with the girls in trouble. He loved a good card game, and trips to the casinos with Dave and Dee. He was a die-hard Kansas City Chief’s fan, as well as the Boston Red Sox and Celtics. Above all, he was a kindhearted man, and loved time with his family.

He was predeceased by both parents; siblings Daniel Trask, Donald Trask, Tanness (Trask) Smith, Alexis Trask, Terry Trask, and Anthony Cocco Jr.; nephew Stacy Trask; brother-in-law Marshall Roy.

Tim is survived by son William McKinnon with his wife Malinda and grandsons Trenton and Tyler, all of Brunswick; brother David Trask of Bath; sisters Linda (Cocco) Roy, of Winslow, Cheryl (Cocco) Michaud with husband Jerry, of Cincinnati, Ohio, Tina (Trask) Boag with husband David, of Oakland, and Valerie (Trask) Paul with husband, John of Oro Valley, Arizona; along with several nieces and nephews with their spouses and families.

A private ceremony will be held Saturday, August 10, 2024, for the family. Please join them at the American Legion, in Oakland, at noon to share some laughs and stories while enjoying some snacks. Just as Tim would have loved.

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

PAUL E. ROY

WINSLOW – Paul Emile Roy, 81, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, July 15, 2024, in Waterville. Born on August 9, 1942, in Saint-Georges-de-Beauce, Québec, Canada, Paul moved to Waterville at the age of 12 and made the United States his home for the remainder of his life.

Paul’s professional life was marked by an incredible work ethic, meticulous attention to detail, and his belief that one’s word and integrity were as important as the work itself. He began his career at C.H. Vigue & Sons, in Winslow, as a lumberyard manager before honing his skills in sheet rocking and drywalling at Pepin Drywall, Inc., in Augusta. His entrepreneurial spirit found him venturing out on his own leading to the establishment of Kennebec Drywall, Inc., and later, New England Fireproofing. Even after retirement, Paul continued to lend his expertise to commercial construction projects as an estimator and consultant.

Paul was happiest when surrounded by his family and was so incredibly proud of his daughters and grandchildren. He was a man of many interests. He played hockey, softball and golf. His love of nature made fishing and hunting particularly enjoyable when they involved peaceful walks that allowed him to appreciate the surrounding beauty. Those who knew Paul knew they could count on his humor. His wit was characterized by impeccable timing, accompanied by a dry delivery spoken with his Canadian accent, and it will be missed tremendously. He cherished the annual vacations the family spent together at Kokatosi Campground and loved reminiscing about all those special memories.

He leaves behind his wife, Elaine Booth Roy; his daughters, Renee Roy-DePeter (Tom DePeter), Rachel Spenard (John Spenard), Michelle Roy, Nicole Roy, and Danielle Roy (Mark Michaud); and step-children Amanda Ovington and Joshua Mooers; grandchildren, Emilia DePeter, Christopher (Ashley) Spenard, Michelle (Anthony) Boudreau, Phineas Roy-Ollie, Chloe Tobin, Jake Tobin, Dylan Tobin, Jack Roy-Becker, George Roy-Becker, Katherine Roy-Becker, Holden and Dexter Ovington; great-grandchild, Caden Spenard; sisters, Olivette Roy Gariepy and Denise Roy, and his former wife, Lucille Roy, with whom he maintained a lifelong friendship; many nieces and nephews.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents, Emile Roy and Marie-Blanche Drouin Roy; siblings, Fleurette Roy Chouinard, Monique Roy, Angelo Roy, Marcel Roy Poulin, Michele Roy Dufault, and Remi Roy.

A gathering to honor and celebrate Paul’s life will be held at Veilleux Funeral Home, in Waterville, on Saturday, August 10, 2024, from 10 a.m. – noon. A reception will follow at a location to be determined.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation, on Paul’s behalf, to one of his favorite charities: Maine Health Barbara Bush Children’s Hospital at mainehealth.org or Good Shepard Food Bank at giving.gsfb.org.

JANE K. LEIGHTON

WATERVILLE – Jane K. Leighton, 92, a resident of Waterville, died Friday, July 19, 2024, in Scar­bo­rough, following a brief illness. She was born October 1, 1931, in Greenville, the daughter of David L. and Lucy B. Knowlton.

After graduating from Greenville High School, she attended the University of Maine for two years, then transferred to Cornell University – New York Hospital School of Nursing, in New York City, where she earned a B.S. degree in nursing in 1955. Immediately after graduation, she worked at New York Hospital for three years, where she became a head nurse in the obstetrics department.

She then returned to Maine and married Albert K. (“Bart”) Leighton, on August 16, 1958. They settled in Waterville in 1962 to raise their family. She worked as a registered nurse at both Thayer and Seton hospitals, in Waterville, through the latter half of the 1960s, whereupon she shifted her primary focus to raising her children.

Jane loved to bake, a craft she picked up during childhood in her family’s bakery in Greenville. There were always freshly baked bread, cookies, rolls and doughnuts at the Leighton house – to the delight of visitors to her home. A favorite activity was picking blueberries in August, and her family enjoyed blueberry pies and muffins year-round as there were always hand-picked blueberries in the freezer. She learned to cook at her family’s restaurant and relished finding fresh produce to serve with home-cooked meals made from scratch every day to her family. She was also an avid reader and writer, either in her personal journals or letters to her children when away at camps or college. She stressed in her children core values such as compassion, hard work, and education – leading by example with her loving ways.

Jane was a very caring person and formed many strong bonds and special relationships with friends too numerous to name in the Morrill Avenue neighborhood and beyond. Over the years, she was a regular volunteer at the sandwich program hosted by the local churches, as well as at MaineGeneral Medical Center – Thayer Unit, in Waterville.

She was predeceased by her husband, who died in 2005, as well as by her sister, Virginia K. Fowle, and her brother, John D. Knowlton.

She is survived by a daughter, Martha, of New York, New York; sons Michael and wife, Karen Dostaler, and her grandson Aiden, of Saco, Andrew and wife, Julie, of Dudley, Massachusetts, Mark, of Manassas, Virginia, and John of Brooklyn, New York; her sisters-in-law Elizabeth Leighton Davis and her husband Robert, of Holden, Massachusetts, and fellow nursing school classmate, Carol Nash Knowlton, of Meredith, New Hampshire; as well as several nieces and nephews.

Services will be held, on Wednesday, July 24, at Wheeler Funeral Home, 26 Church Street, Oakland. Friends and family are invited to join visiting hours beginning at 9 a.m.; the service will begin at 10 a.m. A private burial service will take place later in the day at the Greenville Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be made to The Moosehead Historical Society & Museums, 444 Pritham Avenue, P.O. Box 1116, Greenville, ME 04441.

ROBERT G. BOYNTON

CHELSEA – Robert G. Boynton, 77, of Chelsea, passed away at his home on Saturday, July 20, 2024. He was born on August 21, 1946, the son of Perley and Marie Boynton.

Robert grew up in Jefferson and graduated from Lincoln Academy in 1964. He served in the U.S. Army from 1966-1968.

On August 23, 1969, he married Deanna Collins, of Chelsea. They would have been married 55 years in August.

Robert owned and operated Boynton’s Remodeling from 1975-2003.

He enjoyed hunting, camping, bird watching, and spending winters in Florida during his retirement years. Robert had a knack for finding four leaf clovers and sharing them with loved ones.

He was predeceased by parents; his brothers, Francis, Roger, and Dennis; and his sister, Pauline.

He is survived by his wife Deanna, of Chelsea; son, Robert and his wife Amy, of Jefferson; daughter, Tammy Staples, of Boca Raton, Florida; grandchildren, Marisa and Dylan Staples, of Gardiner, and Robin and Madeline Boynton, of Jefferson; brothers Linwood, of Hertford, North Carolina, Lawrence and Earland, of Jefferson; a sister Margaret, of Winslow; and many nieces and nephews.

A gathering of friends and family will be held at their home in Chelse,a on Saturday, July 27, at 11 a.m.

THERESA S. MORIN

WHITEFIELD – Theresa (Shorey) Morin, 57, passed away on Saturday, June 15, 2024, following a long courageous battle with cancer. She was born on September 23, 1966, to Randall and Elaine Shorey.

Theresa is survived by her son, Brian Shorey; her siblings Randy, Marilynn, Pauline, Roger, Michelle, and Louis; husband Peter Morin and his extended family.

A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, July 31, 2024, at 3 p.m., at Plummers Funeral Home, 16 Pleasant Street, Augusta, Maine.

DAVID W. AYER

KNIGHTDALE, N.C. / OAKLAND – David Wayne Ayer passed away peacefully on March 23, 2024, while receiving care at the Mayo Clinic, in Jacksonville, Florida, from a rare cancer, which he courageously battled. He was born in Fort Lee, Virginia, to Anna and Stanton Ayer, who are previously deceased.

David was a deeply devoted Christian and had an immense faith in God. He taught others so much about God’s Word. He continues to be a beautiful light in so many peoples’ lives.

David served in the U.S. Army as a medic and later advanced his nursing degree to RN, BSN. He was very devoted and passionate, working for Veterans Affairs, which is where he met the love of his life, Kathy, who also was an RN, on the same unit. David devoted 38 years to serving the veterans and their families, which he truly loved. He had a calm and peaceful presence about him, which people were drawn to. He was a strong leader and was compassionate and kind, which showed throughout his life. His career took him from the East Coast to the West Coast. He finished his career at the Raleigh, North Carolina, CBOC Clinic. All were like family to him and Kathy. He was truly blessed to work with such a loving and caring group of people, especially, his manager Haisley.

He always looked forward to his vacations with Kathy and Daisy, their little westie, as they headed up to Oakland to go to their camp on McGrath Pond to spend fun times with their children and grandchildren. He loved taking Daisy in the kayak. It was relaxing for him. Many wonderful times were shared.

David is survived by his wife, Katherine Quinn Ayer, sharing 24 years together; children, Alice (Nick), of California, and Tyler (Alyssa), of Maine, Travis (Kirstie), of Florida; grandchildren, Isabelle, Sebastian, Astrid, Kinsley and Korey; Daisy; sister, Linda Denny (Wayne); and other family relatives.

Predeceased by parents Anna and Stanton Ayer; and brother, Michael Ayer.

David was given a beautiful church service on April 3, Celebration of Life organized by his Nurse Manager Haisley Hunter, of the Raleigh 1 CBOC, at the Durham, North Carolina, VA Hospital.

Graveside service will be at the Maine Veterans Cemetery, on Friday, August 9, at 1 p.m., in section B, located at 163 Mount Vernon Rd., Augusta, ME 04330. A Celebration of Life will follow the service at Lucky Garden, in Hallowell.

CRAIG A. CHUBBUCK

WHITEFIELD – Craig A. Chubbuck died peacefully at his home in Whitefield. Craig was born May 14, 1946, in Bangor, the eldest of ten children and only son of Howard C. Chubbuck and Leona J. Chubbuck, who previously deceased.

He will be laid to rest at the family plot in Orrington. The family will hold a Celebration of Life at a future date.

Mid-Maine Chamber of Commerce golf tournament fundraiser great success

First Place Gross Team Score, Mid-Maine Marine, from left to right, Rob Moody, Garret Prelgovisk, Scott McManaman, Drew Glasheen. (contributed photo)

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.

Nearly 50 businesses provided sponsorships or in-kind donations for the tournament.

“We were thrilled with the participation in this year’s event once again,” said Kim Lindlof, president & CEO of Mid-Maine Chamber of Commerce. “We were also happy that the weather cooperated, with a beautiful Chamber of Commerce day of nice breezes and an enjoyable day of golf for all involved.”

Prize winners were as follows:

50/50 Winner: Cameron Gartley and Martha Wentworth – Central Maine Power Co. Allen Insurance & Financial.
First Place Gross Team Score: Mid-Maine Marine – Rob Moody, Garret Prelgovisk, Scott McManaman, Drew Glasheen.
Second Place Gross Team Score: Milestone Funeral Partners – TJ Smart, Matt Parent, Bob Allen, Mark Parent.
Third Place Gross Team Score: Valley Beverage – Mike Crowell, Mark Bradford, Jake Gerow, Ken Stinchfield.
First Place Net Team Score: New York Life Insurance – Alan Cobb, Joe Gilliland, Cliff Hannon, Gary Levesque.
Second Place Net Team Score: Allen Insurance & Financial – Mike Rankin, James Sanborn, Cameron Gartley, Dave Sanborn.
Third Place Net Team Score: Coldwell Banker Plourde Real Estate – Mark Ford, Ted Helberg, Don Plourde, Jamie Plourde.
Longest Drive: Scott McManaman – Mid-Maine Marine.
Straightest Drive: John O’Neil – Bar Harbor Bank & Trust.
Closest to the Pin: Hole #2: Chris Dow – Dow’s Quick Stop.
Closest to the Pin: Hole #6: Male: Gary Levesque – New York Life Insurance; Female: Deb Whalen – Nicholson, Michaud & Company.
Closest to the Pin – Hole #13: Male: Cliff Hannon – New York Life Insurance; Female: Jennifer Seekins – Bar Harbor Bank & Trust.
Closest to the Pin — Hole #16: Lewis McEacharn – Paul White Company.
Highest Team Score: Boulet Group

  Chairman of the Chamber Golf Classic Committee, Gary Levesque added, “We would like to thank the staff at Waterville Country Club, and all the area businesses for their participation whether with posting a team, providing volunteers or in-kind donations, or being a sponsor. Your support makes this a successful fundraiser.”

The Mid-Maine Chamber Golf Classic is made possible by major sponsors Central Maine Power and Maine State Credit Union and multiple additional sponsors.

First Place Net Team Score, New York Life Insurance, from left to right, Alan Cobb, Joe Gilliland, Cliff Hannon, Gary Levesque. (contributed photo)

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

by The Town Line staff

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.

The first count was Thomas McNaughton, two votes, William Appel Jr., two votes and Chester D. Barnes, one vote. A second vote gave Appel three votes and became the board’s new chairman.

Town Assessor Vern Ziegler introduced Nichole Stenberg from Dirigo Assessing who will be the town’s new assessor’s agent. Stenberg worked for Maine Revenue Service in the past and has over 20 years of experience in property tax.

Road Supervisor Keith Hall reported there was money left in the roadside mowing account and will be having Chris Pierce and Nathan Northrup do sections in town. They use different equipment and have different pricing options. Hall also reported the Amish signs have been put in place.

Talks with Lucas Striping indicated the price will be the same as last year: $.07 for white lines, and $.14 for double yellow lines per foot.

Scott Peaslee will be doing the job on the transfer station wall at a cost of $12,000.

Julia Hartwell appeared before the board to ask that a container be allowed at the town office for Boy Scout Pack #609 to collect bottles as a fundraiser. The board approved with the stipulation that it be placed in a location that would not interfere with plowing during the winter.

David Landmann expressed an interest in being a regular member of the planning board for a three-year term.

The board also approved several appointments. Kim Bolduc-Bartlett at back up animal control officer to 2025; Richard H. Gray Jr. and Thomas Reed, to 2027, Cemetery Committee members, Robert Holt and Laurie Thomas to 2027, board of appeals members; Bonnie Squiers and Heather Wilson to 2027, Windsor Educational Foundation and Reed Fund member; Chester D. Barnes Sr. and Adrian Prindle to 2027, Conservation Commission Committee member; Katherine Johnson to 2025, tax collecter; and David Landmann to 2027, planning board member.

Ryan Carver was appointed animal control officer for one year, and Arthur Strout was appointed as building inspector for one year.

Dwight Tibbetts is interested in holdinjg a benefit concert for the American Lung Association in the town hall. There was much discussion on the building use policy and concerns about the limit of 75 people. This was tabled to the next meeting.

Chairman Appel received an anonymous letter from a group called Concerned Citizens of Windsor regarding some concerns they have within the town. Thomas McNaughton said he welcomes comments, while Chester D. Barnes Jr. said he felt threatened. Appel invited anyone with concerns to attend a select board meeting and encourages the involvement to address these conerns with the board members.

Appel said he received a letter from McKee Morgan Law Firm regarding an incorrect designation of a road name, “Landworks Lane”, and would like to have this on the agenda for the next meeting to include all parties involved, including the codes enforcement officer, Arthur Strout, and assistant codes enforcement officer Greg Feltis.

Appel also said the planning board has been getting new site plan review applications and there has been discussion of possibly some solar farm applications, and there would be some training involved.

Finally, Barnes asked when a meeting will be set up with C. B. Haskell Fuel Co., Inc., regarding the town hall heat pumps. According to Haskell, they have been contacted and is waiting for them to set up a date.

* * * * * *

At a special board of selectmen meeting on June 27, Town Manager Theresa Haskell indicated that it looks like the transfer station budget will come up short and that money will need to be moved to cover.

The select board also accepted the resignation of transfer station committee member Barbara Seaver-West.

Most of the rest of the meeting was spent when transfer station committee chairman John Deeds received a letter from the Concerned Citizens of Windsor Group. He stated he has dealt with threatening letters from the state before and asks that this group come and join the transfer station committee to help them as a group. No time was set for the meeting.

Deeds also asked the select board how they can slow down traffic on Rte. 105 heading towards Somerville. Once they enter Hussey’s intersection, “they are going 80 to 90 mph past his house,” and he is the next house near the Windsor Volunteer Fire Department. The select board said they have no authority to slow down people, but anyone can contact the State Police or Sheriff’s Department. Deeds said he has done that and sometimes they even sit at the WVFD, but nothing happens. Haskell said Patsy Crockett, Commissioner for Kennebec County, will attend the July 30 meeting and that issue can be addressed with her at that time.

Finally, there was discussion about having a policy on how public comment at meetings is overseen, and how to move the meetings along. This was tabled to a future select board meeting.

* * * * * *

At their regular meeting on July 2, the Windsor Select Board reviewed a Department of Transportatin proposal for signs to benefit traffic flow along Rte. 17 – Augusta-Rockland Rd. Town Manager Theresa Haskell gave a handout with a map showing the proposed placement of the signs. DOT will purchase the signs if public works places them in the designated area.

As a following up to Dwight Tibbetts’ request to hold a concern to benefit the American Lung Association at the town hall, a copy of the building use policy was distributed to the board. The policy will be reviewed by the board and discussed at a future meeting.

The town attorney recommended the building at 762 Ridge Road be designated a dangerous building. The owner is not currently living on the property. Codes Enforcement Officer Arthur Strout will submit a letter to the select board to state reasons.

Several residents appeared before the board to express their opinions on the Landworks Lane controversy.

Chris Oberg, Johannah Oberg, and Paul Bernier gave their reasons to keep the name. Bernier indicated he has maintained the road for over 20 years and is running his business off the road. All three state they only followed directions when they were asked by the town to name the road.

However, Alan Aronson, a resident of Griffin Road, stated he owns part of what is now Landworks Lane and that he and his wife, Darcy, had no say in naming the road, saying they were not OK with that.

Following lengthy discussion, the board approved placing signage on Griffin Road near the Landworks Lane Road entrance, from both directions, to direct traffic to Landworks Lane. The road sign Landworks Lane will be moved back to the property line of Paul Bernier, and Johannah and Chris Oberg. There will be no name placed for the right of way beginning at Gtiffin Road at this time as there are no homes on the property to warrant naming the section of road.

Nancy Fish spoke again about concerns of the pit on Hunts Meadow Road that borders her land. Nancy was looking for some clarification of the Site Plan Ordinance for pits. Barnes again suggested she bring her concerns to the planning board. CEO Strout was present and said he can check to see if the pit is less than five acres. If it is more than five acres, the state of Maine would need to be involved with her concerns.

In other business the board approved a McNaughton motion to change the pricing on building permits for residential to $75 plus $.05 per square foot and $150 for commercial plus $.05 per square foot, effective immediately.

Haskell made three more appointments, Dan West as a regular planning board member to 2027, Thomas Leonard as an alternate planning board member to 2026, and Richard H. Gray Jr., as a transfer station committee member to 2026.

The board accepted the resignation of Joshua Briggs from the transfer station.

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

Drew Ketterer

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.

Drew Ketterer was orphaned at the age of 13 and forced to live on $90 a month of social security survivor benefits. He did manage to complete high school and played football for Fairfield University. In 1971 he became the first male graduate of Connecticut College for Women, in New London Connecticut, now known as Connecticut College. He graduated sixth out of a class of 316 with the distinction of Magna Cum Laude. Earning a scholarship through college and law school, he graduated from Boston’s Northeastern University School of Law, 50 years ago in 1974.

His first employment as a lawyer was with the Roxbury Defenders Committee, defending indigent felony cases by day and serving as a faculty member at Suffolk University School of Law, teaching criminal trial practice.

After five years of practicing law in Boston he returned to Maine to open a general practice law firm in Norridgewock, Somerset County. To this day he has remained in Norridgewock as a trial lawyer.

He was appointed by two Maine Governors to chair the state ethics commission, charged with enforcing the state election laws.

He has served in all three branches of Maine government. He first was in the judicial branch as a Complaint Justice, authorized to issue search and arrest warrants. He later served two terms in the House of Representatives, assigned to the Judiciary Committee. Finally, he served in the third branch of government as a three-term elected attorney general, of the State of Maine.

While serving as Maine’s AG he successfully completed five Boston Marathons and successfully sued the tobacco industry in the case Maine v. Philip Morris. He received what is believed to be the largest civil judgment in the history of the state of Maine, with a judgment in the amount of $1.4 billion. He represented Maine in the United States Supreme Court case of Alden v. Maine.

After serving as Maine’s Attorney General, he returned to the law firm he founded in 1979, in Norridgewock, and developed an attorney general practice. In July 2014 his son Andrew became a partner in the law firm, now known as Ketterer & Ketterer, with offices in Maine and Florida.

His service to the legal profession, included serving as the president of the Somerset County Bar Association as well as being elected to the Maine Bar Association Board of Governors for three terms. He was also elected to serve as president for the New England Bar Association.

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

A large crowd gathered at the China Middle School for a nostalgic journey by the China Historical Society (photo by Eric Austin)

by Eric W. Austin

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.

Founded in 1974, the China Historical Society has been dedicated to preserving the rich history of our town. The society is always looking for new members, with annual dues set at a modest $10 to support the cause. Prospective members can sign up at the town office. The society is also working on launching a website and a Facebook page to keep everyone updated on upcoming events.

This event was video recorded and will eventually be made available to the public, likely on the (soon to be set up) YouTube channel for CHS.

Scott McCormac

The annual meeting kicked off with the usual business, including the approval of last year’s minutes and the election of new officers, with Robin Adams Sabattus stepping in as the newest board member. Scott McCormac, current President of the Historical Society, underscored the importance of their mission, and highlighted the challenges of consolidating historical information in one place.

The event then shifted gears to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the China Elementary School. Built in 1949, the school replaced numerous small “one-room” schoolhouses scattered across town. These smaller schools were essential before the days of a bus system, ensuring that every child had a school within walking distance. When the new elementary school opened, all the small schools closed simultaneously, leading to initial overcrowding in the new building.

Historical tidbits from the original dedication bulletin reveal that the town appropriated $10,000 for the new school’s construction over three years, with master builder Louis Z. Masse overseeing the project. Letha Wilson served as the first principal, and G. Wayland Jones was the Master of Ceremonies at the dedication.

The highlight of the celebration was hearing from former students like Richard Dillenbeck and Shirley Fitzgerald, members of the first eighth-grade class to graduate from the new school in 1949. Dillenbeck shared a humorous memory about the excitement of having running water and indoor bathrooms, recalling the uncomfortable “three-hole” outhouses they used before. Fitzgerald reminisced about playing games like hopscotch and tag during recess and noted that only four of the original 23 classmates are still alive today.

Richard Dillenbeck, left, and Shirley Fitzgerald reminisce about their days at China Elementary School. (photo by Eric Austin)

Former teacher Wayne Bengtson, who taught at the school from 1968 to 2008, also shared some of his memories. He recalled the influx of students in the 1980s after China students scored well on the first Maine State Educa­tional Assessment standardized tests.

After the reminiscences, long-time custodian Tim Roddy led a tour of the school, including a visit to the basement, which once served as the school cafeteria during its early days. The tour was a hit, offering a trip down memory lane for many attendees.

The China Historical Society continues to engage the community with projects like an upcoming display at the Albert Church Brown Memorial (China Village) Library about the narrow-gauge railroad. Bob Bennett is also working on organizing a tour of the railroad for later in the summer, promising more opportunities for residents to connect with their local history.

The anniversary celebration was a heartwarming reminder of the strong community bonds that exist in the town of China, Maine. The Historical Society’s efforts to preserve and share local history ensure that future generations will also know the stories that shaped their town. Residents are encouraged to join the society and participate in future events, contributing to the rich tapestry of China’s history.

Issue for July 18, 2024

Issue for July 18, 2024

Celebrating 36 years of local news

Nonagenarian writes book, shares at reading in Palermo

“Guest speaker Jeannette Wood Scates shared excerpts from her recent memoir, There Wasn’t Always Peace in the Valley, with an appreciative audience at the Palermo Library’s 22nd annual board meeting, held July 14 at the library… by Mary Grow

Mr. Drew and His Animals, Too come to Albert Church Brown Memorial Library

Saturday, July 13, snakes, spiders, and a crowd of 125 children and adults descended on Albert Church Brown Memorial Library, in China. Mr. Drew started small with how insects fill important roles in pollination and cleaning up. The fun especially started as he pulled many large snakes, turtles and large spiders from his many boxes. He emphasized responsible ownership and offered to serve as technical support before buying animals…

Town News

Select board pays bills at abbreviated meeting

CHINA – China select board members met for barely over a quarter of an hour July 15, using the time to hear reports from town employees and spend more than half a million dollars…

Planners begin discussions on two new proposed town ordinances

CHINA – China Planning Board members began discussion of two proposed new town ordinances at their July 9 meeting. Chairman Toni Wall expressed the hope that they would be ready for submission to town voters by the Nov. 5 state and federal election day…

Palermo Library holds annual meeting

PALERMO – The Palermo Library Board held its 22nd annual meeting at the library on Sunday, July 14. In addition to accepting annual reports, the board re-elected Chris Diesch chairman; Pam Swift secretary; and Diane Bent, treasurer. Diesch thanked the volunteers who keep the library open…

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)…

AARP Awards Grants to two central Maine towns

CENTRAL ME – AARP has announced 14 organizations throughout Maine will receive 2024 Community Challenge grants – part of AARP’s largest investment in communities to date with $3.8 million awarded among 343 organizations nationwide. The towns of Vassalboro and Skowhegan…

Mya Williams senior class president

FAIRFIELD – Mya Williams, Lawrence High School, in Fairfield, class president, graduated top 10 in her class. Mya has had a dream of being a teacher since she was little. Mya will be attending University of Maine at Farmington for education…

Scholarships available for young musicians

CENTRAL ME – The Kennebec Performing Arts Company encourages the participation of young musicians in its groups. Student members entering grades 9-12 are eligible to apply for the $500 scholarship for tuition to a summer camp or music program of their choice…

Mid-Maine Chamber of Commerce announces Joseph B. Ezhaya scholarship award winner

PITTSFIELD – Olivia Varney, of Pittsfield, was selected as the scholarship recipient from a field of applicants. Varney graduated this spring from the Maine Central Institute High School, in Pittsfield, class of 2024…

Local sudents honored at Annual SkillsUSA Workforce Development Event

CENTRAL ME — Two Career and technical students in central Maine were recognized at the 2024 SkillsUSA Championships, held in Atlanta, on June 26-27…Christopher Pottle, from Winthrop and Mikayla Monaghan, from West Gardiner…

Lasell Univ. students named to Spring 2024 dean’s list

CENTRAL ME — Lasell University, in Newton, Massachusetts, spring 2024 dean’s list includes students from the central Maine area. They are Cameron Goodwin, of Winslow, and Sydney Veilleux, of Skowhegan.

Local students named to dean’s list at Bates College

CENTRAL ME – More than 575 students were named to the dean’s list at Bates College, in Lewiston, for Winter 2024. They included local students, Ruby Marden, of Sidney, Nate Pierce, of Fairfield, and Sophie Wheeler, of Skowhegan.

Pellerin earns degree from Clark University

WINSLOW – Anna Marceau Pellerin, of Winslow, received a degree from Clark University, in Worcester, Massachusetts, during the university’s 120th Commencement exercises on Monday, May 20. Pellerin graduated with a master of public administration. Pellerin was a member of the Alpha Epsilon Lambda honor society.

Local residents named to dean’s list at Saint Michael’s College

WINSLOW – The following local students were named to the dean’s list at Saint Michael’s College for the Spring 2024 semester, in Colchester, Vermont. Cambelle A. Nutting, of Vassalboro, and Evelyn G. Mercier, of Waterville.

Local happenings

EVENTS: China Historical Society going back to school

CHINA – The China Historical Society will be hosting a remembrance and tour of the 75-year-old China (Middle) School following the annual meeting on Thursday, July 18. It is intended these activities will begin in the gym of the building, on Lakeview Drive, at about 6 p.m. Head Custodian Tim Roddy has offered to be the tour guide and though there is some on-going work, he is confident there will be plenty of access… by Bob Bennett

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

PALERMO – Elden Lee Glidden, 70, a lifetime resident of Palermo, passed away at his home on Tuesday, July 9, 2024. He was born on February 10, 1954, a son of Elberton and Helen (Higgins) Glidden…

Up and down the Kennebec Valley: Fairfield (new)

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

Up and down the Kennebec Valley: Windsor

WINDSOR HISTORY — Your writer has chosen next to discuss the eastern towns, starting with the southernmost, Augusta’s eastern neighbor, Windsor. Henry Kingsbury commented in his Kennebec County history, at the beginning of his chapter on Windsor, that the town had “two of its sides parallel with the general course of the Kennebec river,” though it had no frontage… 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 | Have you seen one of these? The spotted lanternfly, Lycorma delicatula, is an invasive planthopper that feeds on a wide range of plants, including grapes, hops, stone fruits, and hardwood trees. When the spotted lanternfly feeds, it excretes a sticky, sugary fluid that causes sooty mold, which can further damage plants. Its preferred host is tree of heaven. Today 17 states have some degree of infestation…

Peter CatesPLATTER PERSPECTIVE

by Peter Cates | Actor Dana Andrews (1909-1992) had considerable screen presence in such classic 1940s films as The Ox-Bow Incident, Laura, State Fair, The Best Years of Our Lives and, a special favorite of mine more for Susan Hayward (1917-1975) than for Andrews, the 1949 My Foolish Heart

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: The Time Thief Affecting More Than Half of Americans: Poor Mental Health

Courtney Nugent struggled with anxiety so debilitating it led to multiple hospitalizations.

(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. At first, medication helped manage her anxiety. However, after a surgery, she found her medication was no longer keeping her anxiety in check. She began a trial-and-error journey of seven different medications to try to get back to “normal.”

“I had to call off my wedding to focus on my mental health,” said Nugent. “My mental health crisis was six months on paper, but for every second of every day, I was fighting to stay alive. That’s time I can’t get back.”

Of those diagnosed with anxiety and/or depression, 50 percent said they have lost years of their lifetime because of poor mental health—and 12 percent said they’ve lost decades.

About a third of those with anxiety and/or depression said they’ve missed significant events due to ineffective mental health treatments. The “treatment as usual” approach to mental health conditions, like depression and anxiety, is often associated with medication trial-and-error, which can also add to lost time. The GeneSight test is a tool clinicians can use to inform mental health medication treatment plans and may help shorten their patients’ road to wellness.

“Patients who have lost time due to depressive episodes or periods of anxiety often feel a sense of loss, which further complicates their mental health situation,” said Sharon Philbin, Advanced Practice Registered Nurse.

A person’s genes may play a role in their outcomes to certain mental health medications. Practitioners like Philbin order the GeneSight test (a simple cheek swab) to help patients understand how they may metabolize or respond to several mental health medications based on their individual genetics.

“GeneSight has been one of the tools I’ve used to help my patients feel better and take control of lost time so that those living with anxiety and depression can enjoy their lives,” said Philbin.
Courtney was prescribed a new medication based partly on her GeneSight test results and began to feel like herself again. “I have a new job and a new lease on life. I do not think I would be alive without the GeneSight test,” said Courtney.

It wasn’t until her clinician personalized her mental health medication treatment with the help of the GeneSight test that she got back on track. Learn more at https://genesight.com/mental-health-monitor/.