Advertising supplement to the Sun Journal Friday, August 7, 2009
Community, Economy, Government, Education, Sports and Recreation.
An essential guide to our community.
TABLE OF CONTENTS 26 14 25 10
LOCALS’ FAVORITES Friendly faces share their favorite things about the region. REGIONAL QUIZ Toughest quiz ever? Test your local knowledge with our quiz. ARTIST PROFILES Get to know a few of the local artists and their artwork. SPORTS LEGENDS The region lays claim to several notable athletes.
Libraries........................4 Government..................7 News..............................3 Education....................11 Health services...........15
20
SWIMMING HOLES Locals know where they are.
8
BREWSKIS Local microbrew history. Where to get your own supplies.
19 16
REGIONAL FASHION Spiff up your style with these looks. KID ACTIVITIES Find out where to bring the kids for fun.
Recreation..................18 Jobs.............................21 Civic groups.................22 Places to go,............... Things to do.............26 Charitable groups.......28
We hope you find the information in this community supplement to be valuable. This supplement was produced by the Sun Journal Advertising staff. FMI, call 1-800-482-0759. Editor/Layout: Denise Scammon Cover Design: Jesse Richter The Sun Journal annual Veterans Day Salute supplement is coming in November. If you have a story about a veteran, please contact Special Sections at 689-2997 or e-mail dscammon@sunjournal.com.
Page 2, Our Town 2009
Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, August 7, 2009
How to contact the Sun Journal Main Office LEWISTON 104 Park Street, Lewiston, Maine 04240 Mailing Address PO Box 4400, Lewiston, Maine 04243-4400 Telephone 207-784-5411 or 800-482-0753 Retail Advertising Fax 207-784-5955 Classified Advertising Fax 207-784-3062 Customer Service Fax 207-784-3062 Newsroom Fax 207-777-3436 Community news e-mail communitynews@sunjournal.com Calendar items e-mail checkitout@sunjournal.com Business and political items should be sent to mmogensen@sunjournal.com City related items should be sent to jmeyer@sunjournal.com News items for our regional offices should be sent to sthistle@sunjournal.com Letters to the editor and guest columns should be sent to letters@sunjournal. com Regional offices FARMINGTON 186 Main Street, Farmington, Maine 04938 207-778-6772 or 888-778-9922 Fax 207-778-5524 RUMFORD 69 Congress Street, Rumford, Maine 04276 207-364-8728 or 800-782-8728 Fax 207-364-8420 NORWAY 429 Main Street, Norway, Maine 04268 207-743-9228 or 800-774-9228 Fax 207-743-7317 AUGUSTA STATE HOUSE OFFICE Phone number: 207-754-2620 e-mail: rmetzler@sunjournal. com
Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, August 7, 2009
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How to submit information for our Calendars What’s happening? You tell us! Let our extensive calendar listings help you spread the word about your upcoming event. We publish several calendars as a service to our readers. To help us correctly publicize your event, follow these guidelines: Mail, fax or e-mail your release rather than phoning it in. Include the name of the event, day, date, time, place, admission charge, if any, and phone number for further information. Include the name and phone number of a person we may contact if we have questions about the release. Check It Out, our daily calendar published Monday through Friday, by region, lists public events that are sponsored by nonprofit organizations (not including regular meetings or support groups). Submit items one and half to two weeks prior to the event. Please include the name and phone number of a person we can contact if we have questions about an item. Send items to Check It Out at our Lewiston address or e-mail checkitout@ sunjournal.com.
How to order reprints of articles Requests for permission to reprint articles published in the Sun Journal need to be addressed via e-mail or regular mail to Danielle Libby at dlibby@sunjournal.com or to our Lewiston address. You will need to specify what the reprint is for, i.e., a company brochure or flier, an annual report, and if a fee is being charged before we can consider your request. If permission is granted, please ensure you credit the Sun Journal with the following: “reprinted with permission of Sun Journal, Lewiston, ME.” To order a full-page reproduction, order online at sunjournal.com or call Classified Advertising at 783-2281 or 800-482-0933. Please note that reproductions are smaller than the actual newspaper itself, but are perfect for framing. They are reproduced on 11x17 paper. There is a fee.
Page 3, Our Town 2009
Libraries: Books and more
Lewiston Public Library
Auburn Public Library 49 Spring Street Auburn, ME 04210 Phone: 207 333-6640 www.auburn.lib.me.us
Lisbon Library 28 Main Street Lisbon Falls, ME 04252 Phone: 207 353-6564 www.lisbonme.org
Ricker Memorial Library 1211 Maine Street Poland, ME 04274 Phone: (207) 998-4390 www.rickerlibrary.org
Bridgton Public Library 1 Church St. Bridgton, ME 04009 Phone: 207 647-2472 www.bridgton.lib.me.us
Lewiston Public Library 200 Lisbon Street Lewiston, ME 04240 Phone: 207 784-0135 www.lplonline.org
Shaker Library 707 Shaker Road New Gloucester, ME 04260 Phone: 207 926-4597 www.shaker.lib.me.us
Cary Memorial Library 17 Old Winthrop Road Wayne, ME 04284 Phone: 207 685-3612 www.cary-memorial.lib.me.us
Maine State Library 64 State House Station 230 State Street Augusta, ME 04333-0064 Phone: 207-287-5600 www.maine.gov/msl/
Turner Public Library Route 117 Turner, ME 04282 Phone: 207 225-2030 www.turnerpubliclibrary.org
Cumston Public Library 796 Main Street Monmouth, ME 04259-0239 Phone: 207 933-4788 www.cumston.lib.me.us Gardiner Public Library 152 Water Street Gardiner, ME 04345 Phone: 207 582-3312 www.gpl.lib.me.us Gray Public Library 5 Hancock Street Gray, ME 04039 Phone: 207 657-4110 www.gray.lib.me.us
Mechanic Falls Public Library 15 Elm Street Mechanic Falls, ME 04256 Phone: 207 345-9450 www.mechanicfalls.lib.me.us Morse Memorial Library 105 Main Street Greene, ME 04236 Phone: 207 946-5544 www.townofgreene.net/jamlibrary.html
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everal years ago, the Lewiston Public Library was the grateful recipient of a million dollar bequest from the estate of John E. Callahan, a local citizen who envisioned the establishment of a publicly accessible venue where people of all backgrounds could gather to explore and celebrate the community’s diverse cultural heritage. His dream became reality when, in December of 2005, local residents were invited to climb a grand stairway to attend the first of an endless assortment of public programs in the Library’s new Callahan Hall on the third floor. The debut week’s offerings included a multimedia travelogue documenting a Maine folk group’s tour of Tajikistan, a teen coffeehouse showcasing aspiring singer-songwriters and spoken-word artists, and the screening of a silent Charlie Chaplin film with live piano accompaniment. The Library facility has been bustling with activity ever since, boasting a varied schedule of events such as: The Great Falls Forum lunch-lecture series, monthly from September through May. The Forum’s new season kicks off on Sept. 17 with Deborah Lipsky and her presentation “Living with Autism: An Insider’s View.”
New Gloucester Public Library 379 Intervale Road New Gloucester, ME 04260 Phone: 207 926-4840 www.newgloucesterlibrary.org
Russ Dillingham/Sun Journal
A young boy practices his juggling at the Auburn Public Library during an Intro-ToJuggling Workshop this summer which was also taught at the Lewiston Public Library.
Page 4, Our Town 2009
By Cindy L arock , Cultural Center Coordinator
Folk Dance activities, such as New England contra dancing, French Canadian quadrilles, Irish set dancing, Greek line dancing, polka workshops & more. Upcoming activities include a French Canadian dance soiree featuring the Quebecois band Reveillons on Aug.7 and a contra dance starring local teen fiddlers on Aug. 14. Continued on page 5
Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, August 7, 2009
Lewiston Public Library continued from page 4
Literary Events, including author talks, readings, book signings and discussion groups. A three-week discussion series on the book “The Whale and the Supercomputer” (authored by Charles Wohlforth) will begin on Sept. 29, led by Bates College anthropology professor Loring Danforth. Instructional Workshops on such topics as readers theatre, genealogy, plant identification, animal tracking and more. A group of youngsters is currently immersed in a summer juggling program with plans to take their show on the road to local retirement communities this fall. Also on the list of past and future arts programs at LPL are musical events such as concerts, coffeehouses & singalongs; film screenings, from
premieres by young local up-&-coming filmmakers to nationally acclaimed documentaries; and various opportunities for discourse, such as panel discussions, symposiums and community dialogues. Most LPL programs are offered free of charge or at modest cost, in keeping with
Banned and challenged books The American Library Association’s Office for Intellectual Freedom compiles lists of most frequently challenged books. They do not claim comprehensiveness in recording challenges as research suggests that for each challenge reported there are as many as four or five which go unreported. How is the list of most challenged books tabulated? The Office for Intellectual Freedom collects information from two sources: newspapers and reports submitted by individuals, some of whom use the Challenge Reporting Form. All challenges are compiled into a database. Reports of challenges culled from newspapers across the country are compiled in the bimonthly Newsletter on Intellectual Freedom; those reports are then compiled in the Banned Books Week Resource Guide. Challenges reported to the ALA by individuals are kept confidential. In these cases, ALA will release only the title of the book being challenged, the state and the type of institution (school, public library).
The name of the institution and its town will not be disclosed. Where can you find more information on why a particular book was banned? * Visit your local public library and ask your librarian. * Find or purchase the latest
Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, August 7, 2009
the Library’s mission to preserve local history, build community, and enrich the life of the mind. For a calendar of upcoming activities at the Library, visit the Web site www. LPLonlin.org, or contact LPL cultural coordinator Cindy Larock at 513-3050.
Banned Books Week Resource Guide, updated every three years, which may be available at or through your local public library. * E-mail the ALA Office for Intellectual Freedom to ask about a specific book. A staff
Callahan Hall has been the site of many colorful ethnic music and dance events over the past four years, such as this performance by the Ecuadorean folk troupe Yarina.
member will reply with any information the office has on file. Please limit your inquiry to one book. If you would like information on more than one book, consider purchasing the Banned Books Week Resource Guide. FMI, contact the Office
for Intellectual Freedom at (800) 545-2433, ext. 4220, or oif@ ala.org. – Courtesy of American Library Assocition.
Page 5, Our Town 2009
Auburn Public Library: Gateway to your future By Lynn Lockwood, Director
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historic organization dating back to 1891, Auburn Public Library has always been about connecting people to the written word. Books are still a high priority, but these days, the library also connects people to the Internet, to jobs, to learning, and to each other. The spacious, airy building at the corner of Court and Spring Streets is the result of a 2006 expansion of the original 1904 Carnegie library building, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Knowing how important a library is to a community, people from every segment of the population donated toward making it an awardwinning meeting place: children collected pennies, adults attended gala fundraisers, and businesses made pledges. Since its reopening, the library’s staff has developed many ways for the city to benefit from its own generosity, providing materials and programs for people transitioning
to new families, new careers, or new life situations. As a Family Place Library, parents with young children enjoy special materials on childrearing, and can attend parent-child workshops, trading tips with other new parents and consulting with area experts, preparing their children to be healthy, happy learners. Pre-readers and young readers flock to story times and to the many children’s programs held throughout the year. Families can take field trips to area museums at low or no cost through the Museum Pass program. Teens find an after-school haven in the library. Popular teen offerings include Anime Club and Teen Open Mic Night, where teens can practice their art and get feedback from their peers. A future initiative called Young Adult Lifeline will help older teens and adults find instant answers to problems such as renting an apartment, registering to vote, or financing college.
APL’s newest book purchases are easy to locate on the first floor, and the staff loves to discuss what they’re reading and help point patrons to their next great novel. And the new InfoNet Download library brings over a thousand books to their computers, for free. Another future offering will be the Fifty Plus Club, enabling older adults to talk to one another and learn from one another as they move toward retirement. Career and family changes, and health and financial concerns will all be addressed through in-house materials, website information, and programs that address their needs. Whether you want to surf the ‘Net, read a favorite novel, or voice your opinion, the Auburn Public Library is ready to meet your need for fun and learning, alone or with friends and family, at any stage of life.
Adults seeking a new job or career change have benefitted from browsing the Jobs and Education collections, set apart from the rest of the nonfiction collection for convenience. The reference staff can help job seekers fill out online applications. Brandnew computer users find help in the popular “Ready, Get Set, Take It Slow” class.
In the top photo, a library patron takes advantage of the computer room , and in the bottom photo, children sit around and listen to a story being read by the child librarian at the Auburn Public Library.
Page 6, Our Town 2009
Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, August 7, 2009
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Government at a glance
ocal government in Maine provides many essential services its citizens, including road construction and maintenance, solid waste disposal, water utilities and waste water treatment, police and fire protection and emergency rescue, land use planning and building inspection, welfare, and public education for grades Kindergarten through 12. Municipal government in Maine enjoys a special authority called “home rule.” This authority is given to the towns and cities of Maine in the state’s Constitution. Under “home rule,” municipalities may govern themselves in any way that is not denied them by state or federal law. This authority sets Maine apart from many other states where the authority of municipal government is exactly the reverse. Home rule finds its origin in the state’s reliance on community, an historical tendency to devolve the power of government to its most local level, and a deep respect for the common sense and good judgment of Maine’s citizens. As its name implies, local government is run by and for its citizens. Whether as a selectmen, councilor, or school board member, people seek to be elected for municipal office out of a sense of civic duty and to make a positive difference for their community. This spirit of community volunteerism also applies to the people who agree to be appointed to the local planning board, appeals board, or the numerous other committees that collaboratively work together to make their local government what it is. From running for elected office to volunteering to assist in the publication of a municipal newsletter, there are numerous opportunities to serve local government. For more information on how you can get involved in local government, contact Maine Municipal Association, 60 Community Drive, Augusta, ME 04330, visit www.memun.org or send e-mail to ResourceCenter@memun.org.
Androscoggin County Address: 2 Turner Street Auburn, Maine 04210 Tel: (207) 784-8390 Fax: (207) 782-5367
County seat: Auburn Cities, towns and townships in Androscoggin County include Auburn, Durham, Greene, Leeds, Lewiston, Lisbon, Livermore, Livermore Falls, Mechanic Falls, Minot, Poland, Sabattus, Turner and Wales.
Cumberland County Address: 142 Federal Street Portland, Maine 04101-4196 Tel: (207) 871-8380 Fax: (207) 871-8292 Website: www.cumberlandcounty.org Cumberland County, incorporated in 1760, is home to Maine’s most populous city, Portland, which is also its county seat. The County was named after William, Duke of Cumberland, who was the son of King George II. The County is approximately 850 square miles in area. Cumberland County facts Population: 265,612 Land area: 853 sq. mi. Incorporation date: 1760 County seat: Portland Cumberland County includes the cities, towns and townships of Baldwin, Bridgton, Brunswick, Cape Elizabeth, Casco, Cumberland, Falmouth, Freeport, Frye Island, Gorham, Gray, Harpswell, Harrison, Long Island, Naples, New Gloucester, North Yarmouth, Portland, Pownal, Raymond, Scarborough, Sebago, South Portland, Standish, Westbrook, Windham and Yarmouth.
Kennebec County, incorporated in 1799, is located in inland Maine and covers 879 square miles of the state. Augusta, the state capital and one of the largest cities in Maine, is in Kennebec county and is the county seat. Government is the largest employer in the county, but other growing industries include high-tech manufacturing, utilities, retail, health care, and financial institutions. Much of the county is rural and abundant lakes, rivers, streams, ponds and rolling hills in the area provide recreational opportunities and attract summer visitors. Augusta offers cultural and historical destinations such as the State House, Old Fort Western, and the Maine State Museum. Kennebec County facts Population: 120,986 Land area: 951 sq. mi. Incorporation date: 1799 County seat: Augusta Municipalities in Kennebec County include Albion, Augusta, Belgrade, Benton, Chelsea, China, Clinton, Farmingdale, Fayette, Gardiner, Hallowell, Litchfield, Manchester, Monmouth, Mount Vernon, Oakland, Pittston, Randolph, Readfield, Rome, Sidney, Vassalboro, Vienna, Waterville, Wayne, West Gardiner, Windsor, Winslow and Winthrop.
Kennebec County Address: 125 State Street Augusta, Maine 04330 Tel: (207) 622-0971 Fax: (207) 623-4083
Androscoggin County, incorporated in 1854, is a county in southern Maine that hosts two of Maine’s largest cities, Lewiston and Auburn, also known as the “Twin Cities.” The county is centrally located and is approximately one-half hour from both Portland, Maine’s largest city, and Augusta, Maine’s capital. The Maine Turnpike cuts directly through Androscoggin County, offering easy access to its major cities. Androscoggin County Facts Population: 105,259 Land Area: 459 sq. mi. Incorporation date: 1854 Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, August 7, 2009
Page 7, Our Town 2009
Local favorites: Home brewskis A lot of beer for a little state: Maine tops on the craft beer scene By Luke Livingston Freelance Writer
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raft and micro-brewed beer has a rich and storied history in Maine; a history which has
paved the way for what is today one of the most abundant craft beer landscapes in the country – as breweries both big and small dot the rocky coast from Kennebunkport to Presque Isle. Mainers themselves have always had a taste for better beer; even before the arrival of the D.L. Geary Brewing Co. in 1986 (and Gritty McDuff’s Brewing Co. a short while after), Maine was one of the largest export territories of England’s famous Bass Ale. “Mainers have always wanted more than watered-down domestics” explains Alan Pugsley, brewmaster and co-owner of Shipyard Brewing Co., Maine’s largest brewery and the 16th largest craft brewery in the country).
Pugsley began brewing in the United Kingdom in 1982 at the Ringwood Brewery in Hampshire, England, owned by Peter Austin. He and Peter consulted for and built brewpubs and breweries across Europe and around the world. But, it was in June 1986 that Alan came to Maine as part of a two-year contract to help establish the Geary’s brand and their famous Geary’s Pale Ale recipe. After a short jaunt around the rest of the country – setting up breweries from Burlington, Vermont to Syracuse, NY – Pugsley again returned to Maine to partner with Fred Forsley and establish the Federal Jack’s brewpub in Kennebunk, the precursor to the Shipyard Brewing empire. Pugsley’s conquests happened in Maine at a time before craft beer was a household name and they continue to flourish here, even more successfully than many larger states around the country. When asked how this is possible in such a sparsely populated state, Pugsley responds, “This reflects the good craftsmanship and quality products made here, not just in beer – that’s what Maine is known for. Mainers have really embraced quality beer wholeheartedly, which can be seen by the countless taps at pubs like The Great Lost Bear and $3 Dewey’s and many others across the state. There has been a great change of face here since 1986; it’s been fun to be a part of it.”
Brewskis continued on page 9
Page 8, Our Town 2009
Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, August 7, 2009
Brewskis continued from page 9
Pugsley’s work has had a great effect on the state. “Maine is the best state in the country if you wanted to taste beer like you’d have in England” says Ben Low, a brewer at Gritty’s Portland location, who began brewing at Gritty’s in September 2007, following seven years of homebrewing and successful graduation from the American Brewers Guild brewing school in Middlebury, VT. The road, however, has not been so easy-going for all Maine micros. What is today one of the state’s most recognized brands – and the most renowned among true “beer geeks” around the country – had a bumpy beginning. The Allagash Brewing Co., founded by owner Rob Tod, opened its doors in Portland in 1995. A few years earlier, Tod was attending graduate school in Vermont when he found a job washing kegs at the Otter Creek brewery in Middlebury, VT in order to pay the bills. However, quite unexpectedly, Tod fell in love with the world of brewing after only two days on the job. It was while he was at Otter Creek that Tod discovered the world of Belgian-style ales. “I love Belgian beers,” he explains, “Because they are experimental by nature – there is a virtually limitless palate to choose from when creating a new recipe or style.” Tod chose to locate in Portland after leaving Vermont because he had seen first-hand the emergence of “the finer things” – restaurants, upscale bars, art galleries, etc. – beginning to take shape in Maine and he wanted to be a part of it. However, convincing people to try Belgian-style ales in the early days was no easy task. “Belgian beers were a hard sell then. No one here had tried spiced beers or unfiltered, cloudy beers at all,” Tod notes. Allagash began in 1995 with eight all-draught sales accounts and one employee (Tod); today the brewery employs more than 15 people and distributes their beer across the country. Says Tod, “These days our biggest problem is keeping up with demand. It’s not a bad problem to have.” About the author: Luke Livingston, 24, is a graduate of Edward Little High School and Clark University who now resides in Portland, Maine; he is a freelance writer, an avid homebrewer, beer geek and the author of Maine’s largest beer blog, www.BlogAboutBeer. com. Luke can be reached at news@blogaboutbeer.com. Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, August 7, 2009
Local brewing supplies: If you want to try your hand at brewing your own beer (or wine), there are plenty of options around to help you get set up. You can purchase homebrew supplies, recipe books and instructions at Axis Natural Foods, 250 Center St Auburn, ME, (207) 782-3348; The Hop Shop, 59 Portland Rd, Gray, ME, (207) 657-5550 www.thehopshop.com; Kennebec Home Brew Supplies, 235 Farmington Falls Rd, Farmington, ME, (207) 778-5276 www. kennebechomebrew.com; and Maine Brewing Supply, 542 Forest Ave Portland, ME, (207) 791-2739 www.brewbrewbrew.com. If you want to try all of the beers Maine has to offer, consider hopping on the newly established Maine Beer Trail (for more information, or to print out a Beer Trail map, visit www.mainebrewersguild.org/BeerTrailWeb.pdf) or attend one of the great brew festivals which happen throughout the year. Some of the most popular are the Maine Grains & Grapes Festival, which takes place in Lewiston in July of every year (see www. mainegrainsandgrapes.com for more
information); The Maine Brewers Festival (see www.mainebrew.com) which takes place in Portland in November; and the Maine Lakes Brew Fest (see www. lakesbrewfest.com) which takes place at Point Sebago Resort in September.
Page 9, Our Town 2009
At the top of their game: Sports legends in Maine By R ich Livingston
The Povich tradition is being carried forward by Lewiston’s own Tom Caron, commentator for New England Sports Network, who was acknowledged by his friend and colleague, Jim Rice, as the latter was being inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame this year. Maine’s Stephen King authored a legendary article in the New Yorker magazine some 20 years ago about the Little League culture that had been a big part of his childhood in the Lewiston-Auburn area (King later went on to play baseball for the Maine Black Bears).
Freelance Writer
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he assistant coach of the ice hockey team at John Bapst high school is Canadian native and Bangor resident Matt Stairs. Matt Stairs also happens to play first base and the outfield for the Philadelphia Phillies, has a career major league batting average of .266 with 258 home runs and 877 RBI. He had a memorable pinch hit home run against the Dodgers to help the world champion Phillies win the NLCS last year. He played for both AAA Pawtucket and for the Red Sox, back in 1995. A perhaps under-appreciated element of Stairs’ biography, though, is that he may be just the most recent incarnation of a long line of Maine residents or natives who have had an enduring impact on some of the biggest stages in sports. Maine is home to a notable array of Olympians, of course, and the most justifiably celebrated is probably Joan Benoit Samuelson, winner of the first-ever women’s marathon in Olympic history, in 1984, five years after she set the course record for the Boston Marathon. Long associated with the Beach-to-Beacon race in Cape Elizabeth, Maine’s favorite native daughter Olympian is supporting the Maine Tri-fora-Cure cancer-fighting women’s triathlon on August 9 this year, at Southern Maine Community College. Samuelson’s place on the Olympic podium is shared by Mainers Julie Parisien, of Auburn (1992; 1991 gold medal, U.S. championships, women’s super-G downhill skiing). Parisien has said that she owed her Olympic and professional skiing career to having “grown up on the hill at Lost Valley.” The roster also
Jose Leiva/Sun Journal
The Auburn-Lewiston Sports Hall of Fame inducted members, above, from left, Jim Taylor, Dennis Sweetser, Bob Jordan and Steve Pelletier. includes snowboarder Seth Wescott and swimmer Ian Crocker, among others. Maine’s mark on the sports world extends to auto racing, in the person of “Maine’s own” Ricky Craven, and Bob Baher, founder of the New Hampshire International Speedway (and Oxford Plains Speedway, for that matter).
King’s article explains a lot: for all of the popularity of high school football and basketball – hockey, as well – arguably Maine’s greatest contributions to the larger world of sports have been in, of all things, baseball. The parade began includes such relatively unsung heroes as Clyde Sukeforth, from Washington, Maine, who had a 10-year career as a backup catcher for the Dodgers and the Cincinnati Reds, but is most notable for having helped sign Jackie Robinson to his first contract with the Dodgers. Sports continued on page 11
One of the most acclaimed sportswriters of the 20th Century was Bar Harbor’s Shirley Povich, who happened to caddy for the vacationing publisher of the Washington Post. That was in 1922, and Povich’s byline appeared in the Post for the next 75 years. He covered everyone from Babe Ruth to Tiger Woods.
Amber Waterman/Sun Journal
Peter Slovenski, left, William Higgins, center, and Mark Coutts, inducted into the AuburnLewiston Hall of Fame.
Page 10, Our Town 2009
Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, August 7, 2009
Sports continued from page 10
Schools:
Mike Bordick, of Winterport, succeeded Cal Ripken as shortstop of the Orioles. South Portland’s Billy Swift was a 23-game winning pitcher for the Giants in 1993, a year after recording the National League’s lowest ERA of 2.02. In 1979, Lewiston’s legendary Bert Roberge recorded a 1.69 ERA as a relief pitcher for Houston, as part of the same bullpen as Peter Ladd, of Portland. When Jonathan Papelbon recently set the “saves” record for the Red Sox, he supplanted Portland native Bob Stanley. A sinker ball specialist, Stanley had been the club’s all-time saves leader with 132, but to most Red Sox fans, he is simply known as “The Steamer.” He is also the all-time leader in appearances with 637 and is a member of the Red Sox Hall of Fame since 2000. Among the least recognized baseball heroes in Maine’s history is actually a member of the Japanese Baseball Hall of Fame. Civil War veteran and Gorham native, Professor Horace Wilson, traveled to Japan in the mid 1870s to teach English to the Japanese and wound up teaching baseball, instead. Speaking of halls of fame, the Auburn-Lewiston Sports Hall of Fame was established in 1983. “As far as I know, it’s the only local community organization of its kind in the country,” commented Androscoggin Chamber President Chip Morrison. The 1983 class inducted former Red Sox catcher-manager and baseball Hall of Famer Bill Carrigan, Olympian Pierre Legendre, hockey great Larry Charest, and former U.S. Ski Team coach John Bower, as well as ELHS ski coach Linwood “Zeke” Dwelley. Lewiston native Carrigan played all ten of his major league seasons as a catcher with Maine’s beloved Red Sox. He caught Cy Young and Babe Ruth. He became manager of the Sox midway through the 1914 season, and prior to 2007, he had been the only manager to have led the Red Sox to two World Championship titles, in 1915 and 1916. Carrigan died in Lewiston in 1969 at the age of 85, but the Maine tradition of Mainers who have dominated big-time sports continues uninterrupted.
Many schools hold fund raisers throughout the year. Check with school officials and visit www.sunjournal.com for Community News.
Adult education
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n the last few years Mainers have come to realize the importance of adult education. Either out of need (such as job loss) or simply looking for enrichment classes, Mainers have been turning to adult education in record numbers. Enrollment is up 30% over two years ago. Participation in employment and training courses has doubled and the Maine College Transitions program has seen an even greater increase.
Giles says the portal has helped them reach beyond the city limits. “We now have one place where we can direct learners from all over Androscoggin County so they can find classes and programs that fit into their schedules and meet their needs. The portal has been a wonderful addition to our marketing efforts.” One of the great advantages of the site is that all school districts, regardless of size, can have a presence on this site; they don’t necessarily have to have infrastructure at the local level to have their own Web site. In fact, five of the 10 most active program Web sites are from less populated areas in Maine.
Realizing the lack of a single resource for Mainers to learn about the various adult education options that are available, Maine Adult Education launched a new Web site, www.maineadulted.org. The goal is to provide better information for potential adult learners and to create a resource for educators and the business community.
At MSAD #52 (Greene, Leeds, Turner) the Web site has been a great resource. As a reminder, they have the Web address on their printed materials as well as magnets. The district has been taking online registrations since February; for the summer class offerings, 40 people chose to register on line.
The Web portal is actually a network of adult education sites. On maineadulted.org prospective students can search the entire statewide catalog of adult education courses. Individuals looking for a course simply types in a town or zip code and how far they want to travel and, in a flash, they have a list of offerings. With another click, course details are presented, along with a Google map showing the location of the course.
The site is not just a place for class listings, important notices, reminders and announcements are also prominent. The Web site is just a first step in a major initiative to get the word out through social networking sites; from www.maineadulted.org, you’ll be able to connect to FaceBook, view photos and videos of adult education events and connect with supporters and advocates.
To see what courses are available in their hometown, prospective students have relied on newspaper ads or direct mail. Information on classes in neighboring communities could be difficult to come by. The Web site allows for easier access to information and to market class offerings geographically. Director of Lewiston Adult Education Eva
Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, August 7, 2009
Page 11, Our Town 2009
Public schools • Auburn Middle School 610 Court Street, Auburn • Bruce M Whittier Middle
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School, 1457 Maine Street, Poland • Durham Elementary School 654 Hallowell Road, Durham • East Auburn Community School 15 Pettingill Road, Auburn • Edward Little High School Auburn Heights, Auburn • Elm Street School
129 Elm Street, Mechanic Falls • Fairview School 397 Minot Avenue, Auburn • Farwell Elementary School 84-110 Farwell St., Lewiston • Franklin Alternative School, 22 Pine St., Auburn • Geiger Elementary School, 601 College St., Lewiston • Longley Elementary School 145 Birch Street, Lewiston
• Greene Central School 41 Main Street, Greene • Leavitt Area High School 21 Matthews Way, Turner • Leeds Central School 1185 Route 106, Leeds • Lewiston High School 156 East Avenue, Lewiston • Lewiston Middle School 75 Central Avenue, Lewiston • Lewiston Regional Technol-
ogy Center, 156 East Avenue, Lewiston • Lisbon Community School Mill Street, Lisbon • Lisbon High School 591 Lisbon Road, Lisbon • Martel School 880 Lisbon Street, Lewiston • Merrill Hill Alternative School, 16 Western Avenue, Auburn • Minot Consolidated School 23 Shaw Hill Road, Minot • Montello School 407 East Avenue, Lewiston • Oak Hill High School E Road Ext, Wales • Park Avenue Elementary School Park Avenue, Auburn • Sugg Middle School 567 Lisbon Road, Lisbon • Poland Community School, 1250 Maine Street, Poland
Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, August 7, 2009
• Poland Regional High School, 1457 Maine Street, Poland • Sabattus Elementary School, 36 No Name Pond Road, Sabattus • Sherwood Heights Elementary School, Sherwood Drive, Auburn • Thomas J McMahon Elementary School, 151 North Temple Street, Lewiston • Tripp Middle School 65 Matthews Way, Turner • Turner Elementary School 91 Matthews Way, Turner • Turner Primary School 59 Cobb Road, Turner • Wales Central School 175 Centre Road, Wales • Washburn School 35 Lake Auburn Avenue, Auburn
Cumberland County • Gray-New Gloucester High School 10 Libby Hill Road, Gray • Gray-New Gloucester Middle School, 31 Libby Hill Road, Gray • Memorial School, Rte 231 Po Box 131, New Gloucester • Pownal Elementary School 587 Elmwood Road, Pownal • Russell School 8 Gray Park, Gray
Kennebec County • Capital Area Technology Center RR 7 Box 2520, Augusta • Carrie Ricker Middle School 573 Richmond Road, Litchfield • Libby-Tozier School 466 Academy Road, Litchfield • Manchester Elementary School Rte 17 Po Box 217, Manchester • Maranacook Community School, 2250 Millard Harrison Drive, Readfield • Monmouth Academy 96 Academy Street, Monmouth • Monmouth Middle School Po Box 240, Monmouth • Winthrop High School 11 Highland Avenue, Winthrop • Winthrop Middle School 24 Charles Street, Winthrop
Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, August 7, 2009
Page 13, Our Town 2009
Reqional quiz: Test your local knowledge a. four b. six c. one d. nine
4. How many years has the Maine Music Society Garden Tour (now the Home & Garden Tour) been going on in the Lewiston/Auburn area? a. 15 years b. 20 years c. 10 years d. 8 years
2. How many square feet are in Lewiston-Auburn College’s new Learning Center?
5. What year was Lewiston named All-American City?
a. 12,000 b. 14,000 c. 28,000 d. 9,000
7. What is the name of the bridge between Lewiston and South Auburn?
3. What year was the Great Falls Balloon Festival started?
a. 350 miles b. 250 miles c. 400 miles d. 280 miles
a. Walter Hamlin Bridge b. Bernard Lown Peace Bridge c. Dresden Bates Bridge d. Neal Armstrong Bridge 8. What’s the real name of the actor from Lewiston who is nicknamed Dr. McDreamy? a. Steve Sterling b. Patrick Dempsey c. Michael Petersen d. Willy Walters
a. 2005 b. 2007 c. 2001 d. 2008 6. Name all of Maine’s counties.
9. Who was the first female mayor of Lewiston? a. Theresa Benoit in 1972 b. Alice Bates in 1980 c. Genevieve Masters in 1984 d. Lillian Caron in 1976
Answers:
a. 1985 b. 1999 c. 1992 d. 1990
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1. How many painted glass windows are in the All Souls Chapel in Poland Spring?
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Local services: Health & well-being Alcoholics Anonymous, in Maine, 24 Hour Hotline 800-737-6237 or 207-774-4335. During business hours, your call will be taken by a member of Alcoholics Anonymous who knows exactly what you are going through and can give you all the information you need. At night, reach a well qualified answering service, who can give meeting information, or put you in touch with a recovering alcoholic, in your area, who will speak with you about your problem. There are over 700 meetings in Maine and southern New Brunswick every week. To find a meeting near you, visit www.aamaine.org. American Red Cross-United Valley Chapter, 795-4004; 1180 Lisbon St., Lewiston Androscoggin Home Care and Hospice, 15 Strawberry Ave., Lewiston, 800-482-7412; www. ahch.org, provides needed comprehensive health and health-related services which help people remain safely and independently in their homes and
Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, August 7, 2009
communities. Volunteer opportunities are plentiful for in-home visiting volunteers and hospice volunteers (training required). Healthy Androscoggin, www.healthyandroscoggin.org. Community Garden sites are available in Lewiston. Contact Lots to Gardens at 755-3110. They are also looking for volunteers to help with various youth gardening activities. The Lewiston Farmer’s Market is located at Kennedy Park. March of Dimes, www.marchofdimes.com. The mission of the March of Dimes is to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality. The Maine Chapter awards community grants to provide preconception/prenatal education, support and intervention. National Safety Council, 800-557-2366. The simplest way to find out if your home has high levels
of radon is through a carbon filter test. Kits are available in stores or may be purchased inexpensively by calling the Radon Helpline. FMI, visit www.nsc.org/issues/radon/ ProtectME-Child Health Center, 782-5437, your resource for Preschool: Providing Early Intervention and Early Childhood Special Education Services for children Birth - Five years old. Big Brothers / Big Sisters: Community and Sitebased Mentoring programs for children 6-18. The Parent Place: Parenting education for teens and adolescent parents. www.childhealthcenter.org Tri-County Mental Health Services, Androscoggin County, 1155 Lisbon Street, Lewiston, 783-9141, 800-787-1155, is an organization committed to providing the people of Maine with excellence in mental health, substance abuse, habilitation and life skills services, respecting consumer rights, personal dignity and maintaining agency financial stability.
Page 15, Our Town 2009
Local activities for children
I nformation compiled by Linda Galway Photos by Linda Galway
Lewiston, Auburn and the surrounding communities offer a variety of activities for children of all ages. Whether your child’s interests lie in nature, sports, academics or any number of other venues, chances are you’ll find it in central Maine.
Thorncrag Nature Sanctuary, Junior Naturalist Program, Highland Spring Road, Lewiston, c/o Stanton Bird Club, P.O. Box 3172, Lewiston, ME 04243. Contact: Susan Hayward, 782-5238
This 357-acre wildlife preserve features an elevation of 510 feet, the highest point in the city. According to the website (http://www.avcnet.org/stanton/
thorncrg.htm) Thorncrag encompasses a variety of wildlife habitat such as upland wetlands, mixed forest, restored farm meadows, vernal pools, coniferous old-growth forest, built environment (fireplaces, trails, foundations, walls, amphitheaters, etc.). These habitats support large, diverse populations of wildlife, trees, and herbaceous plants. Passive recreation at Thorncrag includes bird-watching, picnicking, hiking, walking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, sledding, skating, nature photography. Thorncrag serves as the springboard for several community outreach programs and as a significant regional site for wildlife habitat enhancement demonstrations and forestry practices. The Junior Naturalist Club of the Stanton Bird Club is a program of natural history lessons and field trips for students in grades 3-5, notes coordinator Susan Hayward. The Club meets the first Monday of the month from 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. at the Auburn Public Library, followed by a Saturday field trip to local sites to study topics such as vernal pools, bog habitats, geology, bird counts, historical collections and fossils. The annual charge per child for membership dues and activity fee is $20.
USM’s on-Auburn Lewist College
We offer: • Undergraduate and graduate degrees • Online courses • Study abroad opportunities • Internships and applied research opportunities • Personalized student services Our faculty and staff are ready to help you change your life. Visit us online or call 753-6500 for more information.
51 Westminster Street Lewiston, ME 04240 753-6500 | www.usm.maine.edu/lac
Page 16, Our Town 2009
Lost Valley Ski Area, 200 Lost Valley Road, Auburn, 784-1561
Although for much of its early history, Lost Valley was known primarily as a destination for skiers of all ages featuring night skiing and snow-making long before those became popular at the larger resorts, Lost Valley can now be considered a four-season des-
tination, with numerous community and sporting activities on its calendar. Annually Lost Valley sponsors a Fall Festival (this year, Oct. 4). “There’s chair lift rides to the top of the mountain, a hay wagon ride to Apple Ridge Orchard, a Petting Zoo, face painting and a ball bounce,” notes owner Connie King. All activities are geared toward pleasing the little ones in your family, she said. Another adventurous activity at Lost Valley from April to November is the sport of paintball. The web site (http://lostvalleyski.com/) cites reasonable rates and 10-20 acres of densely-wooded playing fields. Paintball play gets going every Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Reservations not required for Open Play. The Valley is open 7 days a week for parties of 10 or more. Reservations are required. When the weather turns colder, cold enough for snow man-made or otherwise, Lost Valley opens its snowboard terrain park and 17 alpine ski trails, offers lessons and an adaptive ski program and provides cross country ski trails for Nordic workouts and nature appreciation.
The Toy Library, (photo at left, located in the New Life Community Center), 134 College St., Lewiston, 782-1112
“Safe, fun and friendly” are buzzwords used to describe The Toy Library, a unique place for children and their families. According to the web site (http://www.toylibrarymaine.com), this community-oriented association “recognizes the importance of families and community working together to promote self esteem and encourage positive play for children.” With more than 6,000 sq. ft. on two floors, the Toy Library features a gymnasium on the upper level, “perfect for tricycles, big wheels, running and dancing.” The Time Out Café provides snacks. Toys and more toys as well as numerous play stations consume the lower level, including a library corner, kitchenette, mini-slide and gym mat, a dress up corner, musical instruments and more. Parents agree that the large sandbox and ball pit are two of the primary attractions. Fees are $2 per child; babies under 1 year and adults are free. Memberships are the best cost saving options while scholarships are available to those who need it. The Toy Library hours are Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-noon and 2-4 p.m.
Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, August 7, 2009
Boardman, 207 -786-BOWL (2695, www.sparetimerec.com bboardman@sparetimerec.com. A 34-lane bowling center featuring automatic scoring and bumper systems to allow fun for the youngest bowlers; also, Lewiston-Auburn’s largest arcade with pool tables, air hockey and foosball.
Kids’ activities continued
q Androscoggin Bank Colisée, 190 Birch St. Lewiston, ME 04240; FMI: 207-783-2009, www.thecolisee. com. Offers public skating for all ages, including special skate nights for teens.
q Taber’s, 473 Lake Shore Drive, Auburn, ME 04210. FMI: Daniel Hargreaves, 207- 784-2521. Minigolf and driving range overlooking Lake Auburn. Snack shack.
q Auburn Municipal Beach, Lake Auburn Outlet, Route 4, Auburn, ME 04210; Auburn Parks & Recreation, FMI: 207 333-6600, http://www.auburnmaine. org. Open from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend. Bathhouses for changing and clean restrooms available. q Auburn Public Library, 49 Spring Street, Auburn, ME 04210; email@auburnpubliclibrary.org, FMI: 333-6640 x 2004, Storytimes for infants and preschoolers, kids’ activities, summer reading programs and more. q Beaver Park, Pinewoods Road, Lisbon, ME 04250, FMI: Verla Brooks, 207-353-9075. A 337-acre wooded property with three ponds, managed as a family dayuse park. Activities include hiking, fishing, crosscountry skiing, picnicking and swimming. Sevenacre field with two regulation softball diamonds and a one-mile fitness trail. q Boys & Girls Club of Auburn/Lewiston, Auburn, ME 04210. FMI: 207-795-6713, http://www.bgcmaine. org Programs and services promote and enhance the development of boys and girls by instilling a sense of competence, usefulness, belonging and influence. Activities include homework help (Power Hour); reading; computer instruction and games; educational games; school attendance and achievement reinforcement; career guidance and scholarship assistance. q Ingersoll Arena, Auburn Parks & Recreation Department, Auburn, ME 04210, FMI: Mike Berube, 207 333-6600 x2114, http://www.auburnmaine.org. Public skating, shinny hockey and figure skating from early November to mid-August. q Lewiston Public Library, 200 Lisbon St., Lewiston, ME 04240. FMI: Children’s Desk, 207-513-3133; David Moorhead, dmoorhead@ ci.lewiston.me.us; Jake Paris, jparis@ci.lewiston.me.us; Lisa Bazinet, lbazinet@ci.lewiston. me.us. http://lplonline.org/ kids Programs aimed at a wide range of ages and interests, such as Babytime, Preschool Storytime, Summer Reading Game, Book Buddies, Cooking Club and more.
Thorncrag is a great place to hike with children. q Pettengill Park/Union Street Gully, Auburn Parks & Recreation Department, Auburn, ME 04210, FMI: Peter Bushway 207 333-6600, http://www.auburnmaine.org. A 40-acre urban park, with a gymnasium at Hasty Community Center. Other amenities include a baseball field; a lighted softball field; four basketball courts; a youth football field; two horseshoe pits; four playground areas; a multi-purpose building; a scenic fishing pond; and the Ingersoll Arena indoor ice facility.
q YMCA of Auburn-Lewiston, 62 Turner Street, Auburn, ME 04210. FMI: James Lawler, 207 795-4095, www.alymca.com. Besides program opportunities in childcare, youth sports, aquatics, teen center programs, and day camping (Camp Connor, a co-ed day camp for children ages 6-13), the YMCA has a complete fitness center, including a swimming pool, basketball gym, teen center and cafe. q YWCA of Central Maine, 130 East Avenue, Lewiston, ME 04240, FMI: Pam Gallant interim ED, 207 795-4050, pgallant@ywcamaine.org. Comprehensive aquatics programs, including a swim team, instruction, therapeutic and recreational classes. The YWCA also offers a summer camp.
q Ricker Hill Orchards and Farm, 295 Buckfield Road, Turner, ME, FMI: 207255-5552, http://www.rickerhill.com Pick-your-own orchard with fun activities for the kids such as a corn maze, petting zoo, hiking and biking trails, mini golf, obstacle cource, mini train ride and more! q Roy’s All Steak Hamburgers & Golf Center, 2514 Turner Road, (Route 4) Auburn, ME. FMI: Jon Roy, 782-2801 http:// roysgolf.com. Spacious golf driving range, 18-hole, mini golf course, four-station baseball and softball batting cages. q Sparetime Recreation, 24 Mollison Way, Lewiston, ME 04240, FMI: Bill
q Lewiston Public Skate Park, Lewiston Department of Recreation, Kennedy Park Lewiston, ME 04240, FMI: 207-513-3005, http://www. ci.lewiston.me.us/recreation/ index.htm. Features a 12,000 square foot concrete, inground skatepark with bowls, ramps, stairs and half-pipes; open 8 a.m.-9 p.m., weather permitting.
Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, August 7, 2009
Page 17, Our Town 2009
Child care options Finders/Seekers coordinates existing child care services, provides information & referral to parents seeking quality child care, technical assistance to child care providers, professional development for providers that are seeking to better serve their families and communities, information and referral to employers and the community on child care statistics in the tri-county area, statewide and nationally, according to their site. Visit Community Concepts at www.community-concepts.org where you’ll find Finders/Seekers listed under Family Services. Department of Health and Human Services has a brochure titled “Choosing Daycare” that offers suggestions to help you in your search for daycare options. Visit www.maine.gov/dhhs/ index.shtml and click on the “Families” link. Also, the DHHS site states that “Maine has many different child care options to meet the various needs of families.” There is information on the following types of childcare options: Child Care Centers, Family Child Care Homes, Nursery Schools, Legal-unlicensed child care, Head Start programs, School Age programs, Summer Programs, Public School Pre-K programs, In-home care, and 12-15 year old programs.
Local trails: Walk, Bike, Hike Route Name, Town/City, Distance
Auburn Land Lab Trails & Holly Cooney Wellness Circuit, Auburn Barker Mill Loop, Auburn, 2 miles Central Maine Community College Trail, Auburn, ½ mile Franklin Pasture Trail, Lewiston, ½ mile Great Falls Loop (Railroad Park-Riverwalk), Lewiston, 1½ miles Kennebec River Rail Trail, Augusta / Gardiner / Hallowell, 2¼ miles Lake Auburn Loop, Auburn, 13 miles Libby Hill Forest Trails, Gray, 5½ miles, www.libbyhill.org Middle School / Four Seasons Trails, Auburn, 15 miles Mount Apatite Park, Auburn, 3¼ miles, auburnmaine.org Paper Mill Trail, Lisbon, ¾ mile, www.lisbonme.org Pettingill Woods Trail, Auburn, 1 mile Pineland Farms Trails, New Gloucester, 6½ miles, www.pinelandfarms.org Preservation Park Recreational Trails, Poland Springs, 4 miles, Poland Spring Bottling 998-7143 Riverside Trail, Lewiston, 2 miles Thorncrag Bird Sanctuary, Lewiston, 5 miles, www.stantonbirdclub.org West Pitch Park, Auburn Great Falls, ½ mile Wolfe’s Neck Farm Foundation Trails, Freeport, 2¾ miles, www.wolfesneckfarm.org - Please note that some trails are on private property. Information courtesy of HealthyMaineWalks.com and LATrails.org.
Fair dates
Houlton Fair July 2-5
Windsor Fair August 30-September 6
Ossipee Valley Fair July 9-12, Hiram, Maine
Blue Hill Fair September 3-7
Waterford World’s Fair July 17-19
Springfield Fair September 4-7
Pittston Fair July 24-26
Harmony Free Fair September 4-7
Bangor State Fair July 31-August 9
Clinton Lions Fair September 10-13
Northern Maine Fair July 31-August 8 Location: Presque Isle
Litchfield Fair September 11-13
Monmouth Fair August 5-8 Athens Fair August 7-9 Topsham Fair August 9-15 Skowhegan State Fair August 13-22 Union Fair August 22-29 Piscataquis Valley Fair August 27-30 Location: Dover-Foxcroft Acton Fair August 27-30
Page 18, Our Town 2009
Parks & outdoor recreation
Cornish Fair (Unlicensed) September 12 Oxford County fair September 13-19 New Portland Lions Fair September 18-20 Farmington Fair September 20-26 Common Ground Country Fair September 25-27 Location: Unity, Maine Cumberland Fair September 27-October 3 Fryeburg Fair October 4-11
Beaver Park, Lisbon Falls Bonney Park, Auburn Bradbury Mountain State Park Cleveland Field, Auburn Elliot Little League Ball Fields, Lewiston Festival Plaza, Auburn Franklin Pasture, Lewiston Garcelon Field, Lewiston Heritage Park, Lewiston Kennedy Park, Lewiston Lakeview Fields, Lewiston Lewiston Athletic Park, Lewiston Lewiston-Auburn Railroad Park, Lewiston Lower Lisbon Street Historic District, Lewiston Main Street Historic District, Lewiston Marcotte Park Playground-Ball Field, Lewiston Moulton Park, Lewiston Mount Apetite-Auburn Suburban Little League Park, Auburn Municipal Beach, Auburn Pettingill Park, Lewiston Pulsifer Field, Lewiston Randall Road Ball Fields, Lewiston Range Ponds State Park Raymond Park, Lewiston Rodney Bonney Memorial Park, Lewiston Sainte Croix Park, Lewiston Thorncrag, Lewiston
Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, August 7, 2009
Welcome to our town and
By Linda Galway Freelance Writer
For those of us without the knowledge or talent to create our own clothes and accessories, we’re enormously lucky others have figured it out. As Martha would say, “That’s a good thing.” q Yamabibs, Frank
Norman, 16 Pagoma Lane, Lewiston, ME 04240; Tel: 207-7530101. Email: Frank@ yamabibs.com; Web site: http://www. yamabibs.com Think about all the times you’ve ruined perfectly good shirts and blouses when a bit of food inadvertently landed on them and you’ll know immediately why Yamabibs are indispensable for eaters of all ages. “Yamabibs are one of a kind, unique, hand-crafted adult, nursing mom, and kids’ bibs and clothing protectors,” explained Frank Norman, who was inspired to create these bibs after his wife suffered a traumatic head injury and became totally disabled. With her shaking hands and poor coordination, Norman and his wife Arlene saw every meal as a disaster, and she felt frustrated by the spills on her clothing. The bibs now have become a fashion statement as well as a practical accessory. “Yamabibs and all my products are made with female, male, unisex, professional, charming, wild, sports and outdoor-themed fabrics,” Norman continued. “Yamabibs are custom-made so we can expand or change the size, as needed. They’re 100 percent cotton, have two usable sides and utilize a special European fastener that does not pick up lint in the washer and dryer.” A Yamabib, he continued,
Regional fashion: Stylish looks
“keeps your clothing spotless, makes you look more together and feel very presentable, Yamabibs will also help reduce your dry-cleaning bills and wear and tear on your clothing. New this year are the “YamaMama” for women nursing in public to provide them with privacy to nourish and nurture their newborns,” Norman said. “ The other new product was requested by existing customers. Wrap the “YamaKid” around a child for eating, playing with paints, crafts, mud and helping cook in the kitchen, then just whip it off when you want a clean child again.” There’s no doubt Frank Norman has a passion for the “Yama” line of clothing, but that’s not all. He is also the owner and CEO of Future Fuel Technologies, Inc., focusing on inventing, manufacturing and distributing green, environmental, fuel-extending products. q My Comfort
Clothes®, Contact: Betty Snowman, 116 So Main Street, Auburn, Maine 04210 FMI: 207-7836462; http:// www. mycomfortclothes. com Move over comfort food. It’s time to wear some Comfort Clothes®. “I just kept hearing my customers say how comfortable my clothes were,” says Betty Snowman, creator of My Comfort Clothes, “so one day the light bulb just went on in my head and I
Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, August 7, 2009
thought, what a great name for a clothing line.” Even in hard economic times, or maybe because of hard economic times, people want to buy cozy, comfortable and carefree clothes. Maine native and Auburn resident Betty Snowman explained that nearly 20 years ago she and her sister Jane formed a small craft business to sell small stuffed snowmen and appliquéd sweatshirts as a creative outlet. “I think all our friends and family had their fill of our snowmen!” she recalled, “so we had to find other people to take them. Given my last name, ‘The Crafty Snowman’ seemed like an appropriate name for the business at the time.” As lives evolve, so did theirs. “Jane moved away, and I took on sole proprietorship,” Betty explained. “Since then, the clothing line has expanded dramatically to become my main product line, and the snowmen have gotten bigger in size but represent a much smaller part of the business.” Nevertheless, all items are still designed, sewn and handcrafted in Snowman’s home sewing room. The My Comfort Clothes® line includes appliquéd ladies sweatshirts, tunic style sweatshirts, sweatshirt jackets, and tee shirts. “My best-seller is a unique coordinating sweatshirt jacket and tee set,” says Snowman, “It’s hard to keep them in stock.” Snowman’s Web site offers a sizing page to instruct customers on how to properly take their measurements as well as some helpful hints for fitting purposes. Almost all items are available in sizes from ladies’ small to 3X.
Betty Snowman works from her home creating comfortable clothes. q Andes Alpaca Farm, Gil and Morelia Candia, 334 Johnson Road Auburn, ME 04210, 782-7385, info@andesalpacafarm.com Farm store is open during the holiday season and by appointment the rest of the year. Selling alpaca fleeces, roving and yarn produced from from their our own flock. A few alpaca items are available, i.e., clothing and accessories, made from our own fiber. q Lake and Mountain Designs, 1250 Carrabassett Dr., Carrabassett Valley, ME 04947, Sandra Schniepp, 207-235-3040, mountain_designs@hotmail.com. Bags, clothing, sewing q Pegalant, 1009 N. Ridge Rd. NR3, Carrabassett Valley, ME, 04947. Peg Gallant, 207-235-2703, kpgallant@yahoo.com. Sewing, clothing. q Karen’s Knits, 65 Linda Dr. Greene, ME, 04236; Karen Flagg, 207-946-2016. Hand-knit clothing. (The business listing was culled from a variety of sources; for the most updated information, please contact the business directly.)
Page 19, Our Town 2009
Swimming holes:
Locals know where they are By Deborah Conway Freelance Writer
Living in Maine means backyard clambakes, bonfires and “upick” strawberries. Family and friends come from near and far to enjoy the pleasant living in “vacationland.” Living in Maine also means digging the swim trunks and beach towels out of storage, packing up the cooler with sandwiches and beverages and heading for your favorite swimming hole. Maine is a land that has been blessed with an abundance of water, so it’s never difficult to find a place to beat the heat and enjoy a day of water related activities. Although we often opt for a quick trip to one of our public beaches or a friend’s swimming pool, if we look a little further we may find something that will help us cool off and spark our imaginations as well. That being said, sometimes we find the most wonderful things in life purely by accident.
Pleasant Point Park, on the Saco River A search for Salmon Falls State Park, near Saco, led to the serendipitous discovery of Pleasant Point Park in Buxton. Turning onto Simpson Road, off Rt. 117, and following that for .3 miles, will find you turning into a small parking lot on the right. Parking there and following a series of footpaths through the woods will bring you to the banks of the Saco River and a series of swimming holes. Some of these are easily accessible, while some are a bit more challenging. Some spots have small woodland beach areas, some have sunny rock outcroppings with small cliffs and rocks for jumping, and others are equipped with rope swings. Be sure to pack your gear in a daypack or pull-cart to avoid an uncomfortable balancing act on the uneven ground. For the same reason, be sure to wear sneakers or decent water shoes as few things spoil a day on the water faster than a twisted ankle!
Mike Thyng swings into the Saco River.
Frenchman’s Hole, Bethel If you find yourself further inland, a visit to Frenchman’s Hole is a wonderful adventure. Frenchman’s Hole is a bit more challenging to get to in terms of the drive, but the walk from the parking area to the swimming hole is short and easy. There are sunny spots to sit and places where children can get into the water easily as long as adults take care to keep them away from the current that could pull them toward the waterfall. The 20’ waterfall empties into a gorge that is deep and wide enough to swim, but a bit more difficult to get into. The best way in is to wade across the stream and jump in from the rocky cliff that was carved long ago by the flow of water in this cold mountain stream. It’s a good drop, so this method is not for the faint of heart. Swimming continued on page 23
Page 20, Our Town 2009
Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, August 7, 2009
Other swimming holes to explore: q Bristol Dam swimming area, approximately 5.6 miles from Damariscotta. q Cold River Area, in the White Mountain National Forest, accessible only through Maine, including spots called Rattlesnake Brook and Emerald Pool. q Gulf Hagus Gorge, north of Milo, with hikes to multiple picturesque waterfalls and large deep swimming holes.
JOBS: Local teens suggest name of new Web site After a month long contest asking teens to come up with the name for a new Web site that will bring teens together with businesses interested in hiring them, the contest winners have been announced. Victoria Chisholm-Drane, a senior at Edward Little High School and Joanna Spencer, a sophomore at Lewiston High School, will share the $150 prize. The name of the new Web site, www.jumpinjobs4teens.com
was formed last September and through the perseverance and dedication of the Safe Haven Committee, they have made this idea a reality. The group took the fact that this Web site was for teens seriously by involving teens in developing content and, ultimately, in naming the Web site.” Businesses across the county who are interested in hiring teens will be able to post jobs and reach their intended audience. Teens will have access to a resume builder function right on the site; users are walked through a Q&A to build their resume.
q Houston Brook Falls, where Houston Brook meets Wyman Lake on the Kennebec River.
is a hybrid of the names suggested by Victoria and Joanna.
q Lakewood Pond, in Acadia National Park.
The Web site is a partnership between the Safe Haven Committee of Androscoggin County and Volunteers of America Northern New England. The purpose of the site is to provide job postings for businesses in Androscoggin County to reach teenagers between 13-17 years old and for young people to not only find employment, but to learn the ins and outs of the working world.
Safe Haven member Jeanne Strout believes www.JumpinJobs4Teens.com has a unique opportunity to benefit many facets of the community. “I am very excited about the development of this Web site for the purpose of helping teens from Androscoggin County find jobs, write resumes and prepare for interviews. Bringing that population together with the business community is truly a win/win situation for both business and teens.”
Patty Kimball of Volunteers of America Northern New England (www.voanne. org), says Safe Haven should be commended for their work on the project. “The teen job Web site was an idea that
The site is free for both businesses looking to post jobs as well as job seekers. Beginning July 1, businesses will be able to begin registering and listing their job openings.
q The Ledges, in the southern part of Baxter State Park, offers swimming and sliding in natural granite water slides. q Long Dam, north of Farmington, is close to the Appalachian Trail. q Reid State Park, north of Portland, offers ocean beaches, tidal pools and a tidal river. q Roque Bluffs State Park, near Machias, has ocean beaches and a freshwater pond. q Steep Falls on the Saco River in Standish requires some walking, but the current is mild near the shore. q The Rumford area has a number of places to swim, including Rangeley Lake State Park, and Mount Blue State Park. Other places to explore in the Rumford area include Swift River Falls and Coos Canyon as well as Ellis Falls and Lake Anasagunticook. q Small Falls, in the Rangely area offers multiple pools along the Sandy River and is close to the State Parks mentioned above. q Woolen Mill Hole, off of Route 142 between Salem and Phillips has many rocky spots for jumping into the Sandy River.
Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, August 7, 2009
Page 21, Our Town 2009
Local civic groups are here for you q Abused Women’s Advocacy Project, 800-559-2927, www. awap.org has resources and services for victims of domestic violence. Serving Franklin, Androscoggin, and Oxford counties.
q Big Brothers/Big Sisters, 24 Falcon Drive, Auburn, 7825437, www.childhealthcenter. org, offers a preventative program based on one-to-one relationships between an adult volunteer and a child at-risk.
q Advocates for Children, 783-3990, 57 Birch Street Suite 204, Lewiston. www.advocatesforchildren.net.
q Camp Sunshine offers families with a child diagnosed with diseases such as cancer, kidney disease, lupus, brain tumors, and other life-threatening illnesses free week-long camp experiences. Because the strain of a life-threatening illness can be significant to the entire family, Camp Sunshine gives them the opportunity to rebuild their relationships and enjoy week-long retreats packed with fun-filled events. Camp Sunshine operates yearround, and is the first camp in the nation to focus on serving the entire family, not just the sick child. The program is free of charge to all families, and includes 24-hour onsite medi-
q Androscoggin Habitat for Humanity, 786-2598. q Androscoggin Head Start & Child Care, 795-4040, 269 Bates St., Lewiston, www.androkids.com q Bicycle Coalition of Maine, 623-4511, works to promote bicycling to enhance our communities, environment and economy. FMI on bike events and a list of places to bike, visit www.bikemaine. org.
cal and psychosocial support. Bereavement groups are also offered for families who have lost a child to an illness. The Camp is accredited by the American Camping Association and has also been awarded Charity Navigator’s Top Rating for fiscal management. For more information about Camp Sunshine’s programs, and to learn more about volunteering or making a donation, visit www.campsunshine.org or call (207) 655-3800. q Community Concepts provides transportation for residents of Androscoggin, Franklin, and Oxford counties to medical appointments, child development programs, and other critical destinations. Volunteer driving team provides an important service, enhancing the quality of life for those who have no other means of transportation. Auburn: 795-6073; South Paris: 743-6905; Rumford: 364-3685; Farmington: 779-0594; 877-6030594. FMI, visit www.community-concepts.org. q Community Mediation Services provides mediation free or at low cost to community members. Types of mediation include, but are not limited to: landlord tenant disputes, neighbor to neighbor disputes, employer/employee disputes, disputes between service providers/clients and parent/teen conflicts. FMI, visit www.communitymediationservices.org. 800-381-0609.
Page 22, Our Town 2009
q Elder Independence of Maine, Lewiston, 795-7213; 888234-3920; EIM connects people throughout the state of Maine with home care services; www.elderindependence.org. Good Shepherd Food Bank, 782-3554; Auburn. www.gsfb. com. q Greater Androscoggin Humane Society, 783-2311, 55 Strawberry Ave., Lewiston; www.gahumane.org. q The League of Women Voters of Maine, Augusta, 622-0256, LWVME is the organization where hands-on work to safeguard democracy leads to civic improvement; www. lwvme.org. q Legal Services for the Elderly provides free, high quality legal services to Maine’s socially and economically needy elderly age 60 and over. FMI, call 800-750-5353 or visit www. mainelse.org. q Libra Future Fund awards grants to individuals to promote economic development or create job opportunities in Maine. Projects are typically entrepreneurial in nature, i.e. fledgling businesses in need of startup capital, but LFF will consider other types of projects that contribute to Maine’s economy. In addition, projects should provide the applicant with substantial professional or educational experience. FMI, visit www.librafoundation.org or call 879-6280.
q REALIZE!Maine connects people ages 20-40 with opportunities to realize their professional and personal aspirations in Maine. FMI, visit www.realizemaine.org. q Salvation Army, 67 Park Street, Lewiston, 783-0801, www.salvationarmy.org. q SeniorsPlus, 465 Main Street, Lewiston, 800-427-1241, assists adults in making informed choices about aging well and living independently and safely at home; www.seniorsplus.org. q United Way of Androscoggin County, 66 Ash Street, Lewiston, 795-4000; www.unitedwayandro.org. q Women’s Literary Union, 19 Elm Street, Auburn q Young People of the Lewiston Auburn area connects young people to one another, established professionals and civic opportunities in the Lewiston-Auburn area. For more information or to join us, check out www.yplaa.com.
How to submit Noteworthy business news Your business is our business. We welcome news items on new businesses, relocations, new personnel, promotions, anniversaries divisible by 5, as well as upcoming events of interest to our readers. Noteworthy items are published on a first-come, first-served basis six days a week. Electronic submissions speed the process, but we welcome typed releases as well. Please keep releases to three or four paragraphs. For electronic submissions, feel free to attach a digital photo in JPEG or TIF formats (180 dpi) and e-mail them to noteworthy@sunjournal.com. Paper releases and print photos can be mailed to Cam Churchill using our Lewiston address. Please include name and phone number of a person to contact if more information is needed.
Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, August 7, 2009
Swimming continued from page 20
To get to Frenchman’s Hole you need to make your way to the Sunday River Ski Area access road. Shortly after you pass the brew pub take a right toward Jordan Bowl. After 1.1 miles you take a right onto a street that may have no sign, but is apparently known locally as “Twin Bridge Road.” After 3.1 miles the road turns to dirt. After another 1.2 miles you take a left across two single-lane bridges (hence the name). In just .1 mile you take another right. Another .6 miles will take you to the parking lot on the left, but you will see the stream on the right. It’s not easy and it’s not quick ... but it’s worth it.
John Conway jumps, while Mark Hyland looks on, at Black Brook, a tributary of the Kennebec.
Black Brook, a tributary of the Kennebec River Although there allegedly is a logging road somewhere that will bring you to the swimming hole on Black Brook, the best way to get there is to call a local rafting company that will take you there. Black Brook is, as indicated above, a tributary of the Kennebec. It has a waterfall, a small cliff for jumping and a pool for swimming. Getting there, however, is more than half the fun as the raft trip takes you through white water rapids and beautiful river valleys with many other opportunities to enjoy the natural surroundings and get very wet along the way. Depending on the time of year, this trip is appropriate for older kids and adults of all ages. The raft companies will help you determine whether this trip will be enjoyable and safe for your group. They will also outfit you with whatever gear you need for your day on the river, so all you bring is yourself and your adventurous spirit!
Rhian Duggan and Evan Dogadt leap into Frenchmans Hole.
Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, August 7, 2009
Lilia Conway sits on the cliff overlooking Frenchmans Hole.
Page 23, Our Town 2009
Russ Dillingham / Sun Journal
Great Falls Balloon Festival August 21-23, 2009 Balloons, balloons, balloons! Celebrate with a balloon moonglow on Friday night, August 21. Weather permitting the show will start at 8:45 p.m. Join the fun in Lewiston’s Railroad Park and Auburn’s Festival Plaza! Due to weather conditions, the best times for balloon
launches are 6 a.m. for morning launches and 6 p.m. for evening launches. Times may vary depending on conditions. Moon glows - hot air balloons tethered and lit up with propane - will be displayed Friday and Saturday evenings at downtown activity areas as weather permits.
Theaters, cinemas & music venues q Community Little Theatre, Auburn, 783-0958, LACLT.com q Flagship Cinemas: Lewiston: 777-5010; Auburn: 786-8605
Page 24, Our Town 2009
q L/A Arts, Lewiston, 7827228, www.laarts.org q Maine Music Society, Lewiston, 782-1403, www.mainemusicsociety.org q Maine State Music Theater, Brunswick, 725-8769, www.msmt.org q Midcoast Symphony Orchestra, Lewiston, 371-2082, www.midcoastsymphony.org q Schaffer Theatre, Bates College, Lewiston, 786-6161 q The Public Theatre, Lewiston, 782-3200, www.thepublictheatre.org q The Theater At Monmouth, Monmouth, 933-9999, performances at Cumston Hall, www.TheaterAtMonmouth.org
Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, August 7, 2009
Welcome to our town where By R ich Livingston Freelance Writer
It’s been some 13 years since Lewiston-Auburn was first designated as one of The 100 Best Small Art Towns in America (©1996, John Villani). Since then, the local arts scene has only grown to be lots more energetic and exciting, with more venues, opportunities and artists than there were a decade ago. Every imaginable medium is displayed in this community, everyday, including sculpture; wood carving; paintings in oil, watercolor, acrylic; drawings in pen and ink, pastels, charcoal; photography; fabric; furniture; mosaics; jewelry. When that book was first published, the only permanent exhibition spaces in the community were the Museum of Art at Bates and the Atrium Gallery at L-A College. The list now also includes L-A Arts’ Gallery 5, Arts and Ale at Gritty McDuff’s, Arts and Java at Willy Beans, Guthries, Androscoggin Bank, Central Maine Medical Center, St. Mary’s hospital, Holly’s Deli, Auburn City Hall, and Captive Elements Art House in Lewiston. Even with so many new venues, competition for space is fierce, with the number of artists practicing professionally in this community having grown even more quickly.
Captive Elements Art House (www.captiveelementsart house.com), 25 Landry Rd. in Lewiston, is a kind of cooperative effort that provides exhibit space for works in a variety of media and offers instruction and mentoring for newly professional artists. One
Local artists flourish in our community
of its members is Jeanelle Demers, from Auburn (www. jeanelledemers.blogspot. com). She is a 2008 graduate of the University of Vermont, where she majored in studio art and minored in art history. Demers currently works at Willy Beans and Guthries. She is also overseeing a plan to open an art center in South Portland and will be curating the winter exhibit at L/A Arts Gallery 5. Her primary medium is acrylic paint. Currently on display at Willy Beans is an exhibit of acrylic renditions of computer chips and circuit boards, and the artist strives to create something new from photographic technological imagery. In addition to all of that, Jeanelle is in the process of paiting 200 custom portraits, each priced at $150, in order to pay off her college loans. She began, she said, “by painting my friends and family, but other people wanted one, attracted by my exhibits or the social networking I do, so now I’m trying to accommodate everyone.”
example, are often pointed to his Website. “Taking pictures helps me see better. The things I photograph are always there, but we often overlook them. Photography helps me focus, and I hope that others can see what I see, as well.” Marquis has shown his work at Gallery 5 and St. Mary’s, and he will have an exhibit going up shortly at CMMC. He plans to show at the WCSH Sidewalk Art Festival in Portland this year, as well.
Michael Ranucci
(www.michaelranucci.com) is in some respects a more “traditional” artist. He refined his abilities by carefully copying the work of Old Masters such as Rembrandt and Raphael, and applies those techniques to his contemporary subject matter - landscapes (some of which would be very familiar to L-A residents), still life, portraits. He works in oil, acrylic, charcoal. Of his attitude toward his art, he has said “I look for composi-
tions where I can represent how light reveals what we see. Often, I see everyday objects made beautiful just in the way light washes over them. I find this aesthetic interesting sometimes subtle, sometimes not - a gift from nature, not affected by pop-culture or the innumerable images around us, simply based in the natural world.” He shows throughout New York and New England, but the Atrium at L-A Arts must be considered his “home” venue.
Dan Marquis (www.danmarquisphotography.com) is the proprietor of Marquis Signs in Lewiston, and although he has been interested in both the great outdoors of Maine and in photography in particular for “many years,” he has been exhibiting professionally for just the past “couple of years.” “I guess I spent six or eight years perfecting my work to the point where I was ready to show,” he says. His work includes both whimsical and emotional images of the natural world, and he says that people searching the Internet for images of the Maine coast, for
Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, August 7, 2009
Page 25, Our Town 2009
When you have guests, how do you best enjoy your time together? By Donna Rousseau Freelance Writer
Jasmine Pellerin, Auburn, ME “We feed them lobster, of course, at our home! During the Balloon Festival in August, we go listen to the different live bands and maybe eat out on the deck at Gritty’s. Then we might take in the Balloon Glow at night. The great thing about Central Maine is being close to everything. We can bike to Bradbury Mountain, camp in Acadia, or head to the coast, Popham Beach or Pemaquid Point.” Denise Alivero, North Auburn, ME “When we entertain guests from out-of-state, we usually head for the coast for fried clams. We’re really kind of home bodies though, so we like to entertain at home, keep things simple. Maybe plan a picnic, tour our gardens; we love to kayak the area lakes and make a day of it and we’ll golf anywhere!!” Chris Foss, Lewiston, ME “We like to plan lobster bakes and BBQ’s at our home when we have company. Sometimes we’ll take them out to dinner at FishBones or Mac’s Grill. The Balloon Festival is one event we try to take in and we really enjoy bike riding and hiking in some of the centrally located areas including Bradbury Mountain or the bike routes in Topsham/Brunswick. Further from home, we like to take in the Blues Festival in Rockland in the summer and visit the rocky coast in Reid State Park. And of course, everyone who’s visiting wants to shop in Freeport.”
Page 26, Our Town 2009
Lucille Hawley, Minot, ME “Locally, we enjoy going out to dinner at FishBones. Outside we might take friends for some miniature golf at Roy’s near the lake or plan a day picnic at Range Pond. Lunch at the Harraseeket Lobster Shack in Freeport, of course, goes hand-in-hand with shopping at L.L.Bean’s. I love to spend the day on the coast with friends, going to Cabbage Island in Boothbay or visiting Bar Harbor and Jordan Pond in Acadia.” Susan Hilton, Warren, ME “When I visit my sister in Auburn, we always have a car full of children so we head for easy-to-reach places like Crescent Beach right in Auburn or Range Pond State Park. We like to plan short hikes, day picnics, anything that allows the kids opportunity to play outside. As far as summer events, we love taking in the big balloon launches at the Balloon Festival and attending area parades when they happen.”
Lane & Anna Feldman, North Auburn, ME “Impromtu get-togethers for a BBQ or potluck at home is our style of entertaining but we also enjoy going out to dinner at Davinici’s - the renovated old mill atmosphere is great. For outdoors, there are lots of great hiking/walking trails along the Androscoggin River, like Five Pitch Park, that provide some scenic views of the falls. Mostly, we like taking in the summer concerts outside. Freeport has a great concert series so when friends come to town, we head for LL Bean; we hang out on the green, hear some good music, and hit the store all in the same visit.”
Places to go, things to do
AUBURN: q Androscoggin Historical Society, County Building, 2 Turner Street, 784-0586 q Knight House, c/o Auburn Heritage, Inc., 30 Great Falls AUGUSTA: q Maine State Museum, State Capitol Complex, 287-2301 q Old Fort Western, 16 Cony Street, 626-2385 LEWISTON: q Atrium Gallery, University of Southern Maine Lewiston-Auburn College, 51 Westminster Street, 207-753-6554 q Bates College Museum of Art, Bates College, 786-6158 q Franco-American Heritage Center, Corner of Oxford & Cedar Streets, 783-1515 q Museum L-A, Bates Mill, Canal St., Lewiston 333-3881, www.museumla.org q Muskie Archives, Edmund S., Bates College, Lewiston, 786-6354 LIVERMORE FALLS: q Washburn-Norlands Living History Center, 290 Norlands Rd, 897-4366, www.norlands.org NEW GLOUCESTER: q Shaker Museum and Library, 707 Shaker Rd., 926-4597 POLAND SPRING: q Poland Spring Preservation Society, P.O. Box 444, Maine State Building, 998-4142
Museums, Studios, Galleries and Art Venues w L-A Arts (782-7228; www. laarts.org) is the gateway to several important exhibit venues, including: w Gallery 5, 49 Lisbon St., Lewiston; www.laarts.org/visual/gallery-5.htm w Art & Ale at Gritty McDuff’s, corner of Main and Court Streets, Auburn; www. laarts.org/visual/art-ale.htm w Art & Java at Willy Beans, Bates Mill #6, Lincoln St., Lewiston; www.laarts.org/visual/ art-ale.htm ...as well as Auburn City Hall. Other consistent venues include: w Atrium at L-A College; www.usm.maine.edu/lac/art/ w She Doesn’t Like Guthries, 115 Middle St., Lewiston; www. myspace.com/guthriesplace w Bates College Art Museum, www.bates.edu/museum.xml w Captive Elements Art House, 25 Landry Rd., Lewiston; 786-3606; www.captiveelementsarthouse.vpweb.com/
Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, August 7, 2009
Museum L-A celebrates history of local workers, industries Located in the first building that was to become part of the world-renown Bates Manufacturing Company, Museum L-A is preserving and telling the stories of the local textile, shoe, and brick-making industries and the people who worked in them through engaging exhibits, programs and community outreach. The Museum’s newest exhibit, Portraits & Voices: Brickyard Roads, opened on Aug. 1 and will be up for approximately one year. The exhibit is the second in the Portraits & Voices series based on oral histories of workers in Lewiston-Auburn’s textile, brick and shoemaking industries. This exhibit tells the story of the local brickmaking industry with first-person oral histories, documentary photographs, films showing the process - past and present, specially-
Places to go, things to do
commissioned artwork celebrating the art of brickmaking and more. A variety of educational programs and special events for all ages are offered throughout the year; watch for announcements. Sun Journal. Museum L-A is located in the Bates Mill Complex at the corner of Canal and Chestnut streets. Parking is available in front of the building as well as along Canal Street and nearby parking garages. Vehicles may enter the complex via Chestnut Street and proceed to the far end of the parking area. The Museum is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Admission is $3 for adults and $2 for seniors and students. Group tours are available upon request. For more information, please call 207-333-881 or visit the Museum’s web site at www.museumla.org . Along with special and permanent exhibits, Museum L-A offers a variety of programs for all ages. Youngsters constructed their own water wheels at a Museum L-A’s Science Discovery Workshop.
Shaker Library and Museum The Shaker Library is open year round, but appointments are required. The Shaker Library welcomes anyone interested in learning more about the Shakers. This invitation includes scholars, writers, students of all ages, teachers, genealogists, and the Shaker enthusiast. The Shaker Museum is open to the public Memorial Day through Columbus Day, Monday through Saturday (closed Sundays). The Sabbathday Lake Shaker Museum is located within the perimeters of the only active and functioning Shaker community in the world. The museum was first organized in 1931 by Sisters Iona Sedgley and Ethel Peacock in hopes of educating the public about the “truths” of Shakerism. Thousands of visitors have come to explore this unique and sacred place of work and worship. Six of the 18 existing structures at Sabbathday Lake are open to the public. Throughout these buildings there are 27 exhibit rooms which explore a continuum of over 200 years of Shaker heritage in the Maine communities. Guided tours of the premises at the Sabbathday Lake Shaker Village provide valuable insights into the Maine Shaker heritage and culture of the past as well as the present. Guided tour: 75 minutes. Fee is charged. Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, August 7, 2009
707 Shaker Road New Gloucester, ME 04260 Telephone: (207) 926-4597 Office e-mail: usshakers@aol.com
Page 27, Our Town 2009
Charitable, fraternal & religious services Auburn Advent Christian Church, 263 Turner St., Auburn, 786-3988. Emmanuel Assembly of God, 4 Fayette Rd., Livermore Falls, 897-5400, www.emmanuelassembly.com. First Assembly of God Church, 70 Hogan Rd., Lewiston. Freemasonry is a fraternity which encourages its members to practice the faith of their personal acceptance. FMI, visit www.mainemason.org. Grace Lutheran Church, 757 Summer St., Auburn, 782-9697 High Street Congregational Church UCC, 106 Pleasant St., Auburn, 784-1306, www.highstreetucc.org. Hope Haven Gospel Mission, 783-6086, is a homeless shelter that works to serve the needs of the homeless, hungry, and poor. FMI, visit www.hopehavengospelmission.org
Page 28, Our Town 2009
Knights of Columbus, The heart of the Knights of Columbus organization is the individual member. Visit www.mainekofc.org/ districtsandcouncils.htm Kora Temple Shriners, 11 Sabattus St., Lewiston, www.korashriners.org, supports the Shriners Hospitals, and have fun. Even though they are a fraternity, many of their activities involve families. Prince of Peace Roman Catholic Parish, Lewiston, 777-1200 Trinity Episcopal Church, 247 Bates St., Lewiston, 782-5700. United Methodist Church of Auburn, 439 Park Ave., Auburn, 782-3972, auburnmethodist.org. Unity Bible Church, 451 College St., Lewiston, 784-1693, www.unitybible.com.
Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, August 7, 2009