Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Friday, August 7, 2015
2
OUR TOWN
Libraries:
Nothing like a good book Rich Livingston Special Sections Writer Mark Twain once said “The man who does not read good books has no advantage over the man who can’t read them.” And nearly every town in Maine provides ample opportunity for its residents to do just as Twain advised. Maine was recently ranked second only to Vermont in the number of libraries per capita. And despite the movement toward downloading instead of page turning, libraries in central Maine remain vital anchors of our communities. Many people carry telephones in their pockets that can store more reading material than anyone could consume in a lifetime. And yet there are still more than three dozen public libraries, replete with musty stacks of books, waiting lists for the latest bestsellers, and a long tradition of serving scholars and those who devour romance novels alike, dotting the landscape of central Maine. And that doesn’t include the material at area colleges, universities, or museums, such as the internationally important Franco-American cultural collection and genealogical data base at the University of Southern Maine’s Lewiston-Auburn College. Repositories of knowledge in written form can be traced to the dawn of civilization. History Magazine speaks of a collection of “about 30,000 clay tablets found in ancient Mesopotamia [dating] back more than 5,000 years,” for example. Access to written knowledge – literacy – was, however, a closely guarded secret of the ruling classes for millennia. In 18th Century America, teaching slaves to read was considered a crime. Throughout medieval times, nearly all written knowledge was suppressed by The Church. Throughout the Renaissance, collections of books were controlled chiefly by wealthy individuals, including clergy and lawyers. University libraries were essentially random assemblies of volumes that had been donated by alumni and other patrons (Thomas Jefferson’s legendary library at Monticello was bequeathed to his beloved University of Virginia). Many of the 200 or so public libraries in Maine have little space
Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Friday, August 7, 2015
and few resources beyond simply stacks of books to lend. But ma ny ot her s, i nclud i ng bot h L ew iston and Auburn, function in a variety of capacities, drawing together all elements of the com mu n it ies t hey ser ve. Lady Bird Johnson once said “Perhaps no place in a ny community is so totally democratic as the town library. The only entrance requirement is interest.” Auburn’s classic Carnegie library, a legacy of Andrew Ca r neg ie’s v ision of creat i ng publ ic l ibra r ies a l l along the railroad lines of New Eng la nd, is possibly the cit y’s most prominent landmark. It incorporates a café, electronic services; live, in-person programs for kids and adults, public use Jose Leiva/Sun Journal file photo computers and wi-fi connectivity. The Marsden Hartley Paranormal investigator Howard Labbe of Restless Spirit Investigations of Lewiston uses an electromagnetic Center at the Lewiston library field meter and a voice recorder to detect spirit activity in the original section of the Auburn Public Library. Labbe presents a series of topical detected spirit activity in the balcony overlooking the magazine reading room and other areas. Labbe gave a community conversations, presentation at the Auburn Public Library a few years ago on his paranormal investigative work. and the facility is among the most important elements in A recent white paper published by the MacArthur Foundation the continuing assimilation of our newest citizens, and even made the observation that “If anything, these traditional skills hosted a recent naturalization ceremony. assume even greater importance as students venture beyond Typical of how small town libraries are meeting the chal- collections that have been screened by librarians and into the lenges of technology by offering new programs and services more open space of the web. Some of these skills have tradiand becoming more important to the people they serve is the tionally been taught by librarians who, in the modern era, are recently completed million dollar expansion of the Bailey reconceptualizing their role less as curators of bounded collecPublic Library, in Winthrop. In a town of some 6,000 people, tion and more as information facilitators who can help users more than 800 came to the library in the first week after its find what they need, online or off, and can cultivate good stratrecent re-opening, including triple the number of teenagers egies for searching material.” who had previously used the facility. The new Stephen and Tabitha King Events Room regularly hosts two dozen families for weekly programming, four times the number prior to expansion, and the space which is home to readings by numerous local and guest poets and writers is about to host appearances by the Kings’ son, Owen, who will read from his new novel, and by Presidential Inaugural poet, Richard Blanco, who fills Merrill Auditorium with each appearance. Both King and Blanco are expected to attract audiences in the hundreds.
Custom Window Treatments
• Custom Draperies • Blinds & Valances • Custom Roller & Cellular Shades • Upholstery • In-House Workroom • Repair Service • Motorization
995 Center St., Auburn 207-782-0052
info@gamachelessard.com/www.windowdecorators.com
The small town libraries of central Maine retain the role they’ve always had, to bring to their communities access to all the collective wisdom of the ages, to a vast array of entertainment and culture, and to lead the way deeper into the information age. In pixels or print, there remains nothing like a good book. And in our neighborhood, a good book is never far away.
Great programming at your local libraries By Deborah Carroll Special Sections Writer “In the late 1890s, the public library movement was getting going around the country as a subscription library,” said Rick Speer, director of the Lewiston Public Library, when
Libraries
page 3 ‰
OUR TOWN
Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Friday, August 7, 2015
Libraries from page 2
“the Daughters of the American Revolution decided they wanted a public library and Senator William Frye went to Andrew Carnegie to get money.” The LPL “opened in 1903 to provide access to folks, regardless of education and regardless of status, and 115 years later, we’re still doing the same thing, although the tools of instruction have changed.” Meanwhile, on the opposite side of the Androscoggin River, the Auburn Public Library is celebrating its 125th anniversary in October. Like the LPL, said Mamie Anthoine Ney, director of the APL, “It started with a grant from Andrew Carnegie, and has expanded over the years.” Specifically, in 2006-2007, the APL grew from a small library to a facility with 33,000-square feet of space. On both sides of the river, each library is presently developing its fall programs, some of which will be hosted individually, but many of which will be hosted jointly. “We work together as closely as we can, but we do our own programs as well,” explained Ney. Speer agreed, “Programming is a big part of what we do, [but we also] provide access to a lot of resources, [individually and] jointly with the APL.” And all programs, at both libraries, are free. “Muslim Journeys,” a film, as well as a reading and discussion for people who want to learn about the Muslim culture, is one such joint effort. It begins with a film at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 20, followed by a discussion and recommended readings. “Great Falls Forum,” an ongoing brown bag lunch session, done in conjunction with The Chamber of Commerce, Bates College and the Sun Journal, will begin its 18th season at noon Sept. 17, with a presentation by Kevin Lewis, CEO of Community Health Options, regarding the future of health care in Maine. The LPL also hosts an ongoing monthly book club. These book clubs gather at the LPL on the second Tuesday of each month, at 2 p.m. and again at 6:15 p.m. for those who cannot attend the afternoon gathering. “We have various authors who come through,” said Speer. “Barnie Frank will be here on Oct. 25 to talk about his biography.” And Kate Braestrup, a former chaplain in the Maine Warden Service who has written about her experiences in her book, “Anchor & Flares” will talk on Sunday, Nov. 8. In Auburn, myster y w riter Gerr y Boyle, creator of the Jack McMorrow series, will talk about his newest book, “Once Burned,” at 10 a.m. Oct. 10. Both libraries host a variety of programs for
children and teens. At the LPL, “We do a variety of things including preschool story time, as well as baby time for parents and toddler time,” said Speer. They’ve also got “Art Van every Monday after school, kids cooking club – hosted in conjunction with St. Mary’s Nutrition Center -- every Thursday after school and, when school begins, homework help sessions Monday through Thursday from 3:30 until 5:30 p.m. For more information, visit www.LPLonline. org. “‘Book Reach’ is a joint program,” explained Ney. “Our libraries recruit volunteers who visit 40 local daycares, laden with a bag full of books. They read aloud and leave the books for the daycare to use for a week.” Last year, the APL received a grant which provided every child at each daycare a book to bring home, and in the summer of 2015, the APL enriched the lives of more than 600 area youths who took part in their summer reading program. The APL is proud to be a “Family Place Library,” a national organization that supports early library and literary skills. “There is a community aspect to it, reaching underprivileged youths to teach and instill good literacy skills, [but] a good part of this program is playing,” said Ney, to “encourage good parenting skills” by teaching the parents how to play with their kids. “There are quite a few [such programs] in the state of Maine,” she added. “For the teens, we do a lot of collaborating with local agencies, like Safe Voices, to raise awareness.”
office, and making seniors comfortable with social media platforms such as Facebook. Other online programs available through www.libraryLA.org include investment information, programs for folks who are preparing to take a civil service or scholastic aptitude tests, and access to the full text of magazines and other journals. “Mango languages,” accessed through www. libraryLA.org, is also “getting a lot of use,” said Speer. There are 67 different languages on it, and it can be accessed via the website where lessons can be downloaded to devices. In Auburn, “We offer classes on work processes and social media in the computer lab,” said Ney. The Media Lab at the APL is “the first in a public library in New England,” she adds ed. Built with grants from Best Buy, Procter & Gamble, and others, it is available to anyone with a library card. In the Media Lab, one can do video and audio work using state of the art microphones, cameras, computers and software. Support is available, so look for the APL’s “get acquainted with media” program this fall. “We’re part of a Maine State Library led initia-
3
tive, ‘Tech for Seniors,’ offered in conjunction with CMMC, Bethel, Bridgton and Lewiston,” said Ney. “We’re providing a way for seniors to become more comfortable with technology. Also, unique to Auburn, we’re partnering with ‘Cornerstone of Science,’ a non profit whose mission it is to bring science to libraries … another Maine State Library initiative based on a federal grant.” “ Partnering with other libraries, we’re helping to develop STEM, [an acronym for science, technolog y, engineering and math] that can be made available to libraries throughout the State,” according to Ney. For more informat ion about t he A PL , v isit w w w. auburnpubliclibrary.org. On Dec. 3, beginning at noon, the APL will host an “Edwardian Christmas Tea.” According to the APL’s events calendar, participants will be transported “back to 1908,” to learn “holiday traditions of the time.” It’s all a part of “getting the libraries to the people,” said Ney, and promoting the libraries as “The third place … a community gathering place with so much to offer.”
From 5:30-7:30 p.m. Oct. 15, the APL will host “College Night for Teens and their Parents” in the Androscoggin Community Room, to discuss topics such as college financing. And, be on the lookout for the Teen Opportunities Fair, happening in Lewiston in early 2016. This event will help teens take a look at what is available for them in the coming summer, teaching them about job applications, interview techniques and internships. At the APL, for adults, “We partner with LA Senior College on a discussion series,” said Ney. Held in the afternoons, a full college course is condensed to provide exposure to topics of interest. “With your library card you can download ebooks onto any device, as well as eaudio books, that you can borrow for a two-week period,” said Ney. When it comes to learning how to use the library’s online resources, “We do one-onone ereader sessions three to four times per month,” said Speer. “Anyone who wants help can schedule an appointment with the librarian,” added Ney. Both libraries can also help with job searches, finding government forms, checking the status of accounts with the social security
Submitted photo
Members of the Wampa Clan, a Star Wars-costumed volunteer organization, check out some of LPL’s great Star Wars books at Star Wars Reads Day 2014. Star Wars Reads Day will return to the library on Saturday, Oct.10, 2015.
4
OUR TOWN
Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Friday, August 7, 2015
Renowned artist plans sculpture in downtown Lewiston
This vacant lot across from FISC and Forage Market on Lisbon Street in Lewiston is where L/A Arts intends to install a public art project at sidewalk level.
G lf Directory 18 Hole
268-3000
9 Holes for $16.00 w/cart $27.00
The only 4½ star rated course by Golf Digest within a 50 mile radius.
SeniorS Day
laDieS Day
Tu sd & Thu sd
W d sd
$
39
C t & G s F
18 Holes for $28.00 w/cart $44.00 After 3 pm Just $15.00 all you can play walking. Please call for tee times. • Used carts for sale. www.themeadowsgolfclub.com
Find us on Facebook Huntington Hill Rd. • Litchfield
$
39
C t & G s F
Come Play the Fab 5 for only $10 to walk and $15 to ride. You will Play 2 par 4s 1 par 5 and 2 par 3s which includes our signature hole #5.
Check our Website for online specials Call for tee times or Book online at www.foxridgegolfclub.com Lessons with Bob Darling Jr. PGA Professional
550 Penley Corner Road, Auburn 777-GOLF (4653)
Gift Cards Available
www.foxridgegolfclub.com
Russ Dillingham/Sun Journal
August Special
Hebron Pines RV & Golf
400 Buckfield Rd., Hebron
740-2179
GOLF 9 Holes $15 18 Holes $20 Camping Available Golf Central Maine's Finest Semi-Private Course
Visit www.martindalecc.com
for all of our specials on golf and more.
"Where pace of play, fantastic greens, and service are #1."
Grille Nineteen is open daily for lunch and dinner. Enjoy lunch on the deck over looking the course. Visit L-A's Premier Golf Shop Country Club
Martindale
Since 1921
Like us on
"Where Pace of Play, Fantastic Greens, and Service are #1"
527 Beech Hill Rd, Auburn • 782-1107 • www.martindalecc.com
OUR TOWN
Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Friday, August 7, 2015
Steve Sherlock, Staff Editor
C
ha rl ie Hew it t f i nds i n spi r at ion for h i s art work in the simplest of images. “These doodles are how I come up with ideas,” Hewitt said last week at his Portland studio, showing a pad filled with hundreds of tiny, colorful sketches. “From such a lowly spot, it’s not hard for me to end up with an image.” His brand of shorthand grows into rich works of paintings a nd scu lptures t hat have graced the top art museums in New York. T he a r t ist who desig ned Ne w Yor k C i t y ’s f a m e d Urban Rattle sculpture from such sketches is developing a similar seven-piece, wh imsica l meta l a r t work for a scarred piece of property in the city of his birth — Lewiston. Ca l led “Lew iston Ratt le,” the seven-piece sculpture will be erected in the next few months at the vacant lot at 163 Lisbon St., between Ash and Pine streets, where a 2004 fire destroyed at least three buildings, including Marco’s Restaurant. “It’s actually a brand for the
neighborhood, if it is successf u l,” Hew it t sa id. “It should be like when someone says,”W here’s that restaurant?’ ‘It’s by that wacky piece of sculpture.’ I love that.
2013 that destroyed several apartment buildings. Hewitt attended severa l communit y events after the fires and hooked up with L/A Arts Executive Director Josh Vink.
“I hope over a period of time it finds grace and elegance a nd i nteg rat ion i nto t he community.”
“We were move d by h i s pa ssion for L ew istonAuburn,” Vink said.
Each piece is 5- to 8-feet tall and will sit on the tip of a 20-foot aluminum pole. Two of the images are inspired from paintings by Lewiston artist Marsden Hartley and a third is an homage to the Somali community. Hewitt was born in Lewiston in 1946 and was raised in a New Auburn tenement in a family of eight. Family, work a nd communit y a re referenced throughout his artwork. Besides the image of a baby’s toy w it h t he s c u lpt u re s resting atop 20-foot poles, Hewitt said the tern rattle in his sculptures refers to the noise of the community. “The Urban Rattle (in New York) has the rattle of the trains. This has the rattle of the mills, the looms, the weaving,” he said. The idea for the Lew iston Rattle project grew out of the series of devastating fires in
The origina l plan was for Hewitt to build his sculpture on one of the properties destroyed in the 2013 fire, Vink said. When that failed, the vacant lot on Lisbon St., owned by Tom Platz, was the obvious choice. T he seven met a l pieces, fabricated and painted in Portland, are completed. All that is left is for L/A Arts to complete fundraising for the seven aluminum poles. What has pleased Hewitt the most is that the Lew iston Rattle will be built without government funding. “It’s totally funded by the c om mu n it y a nd pr i v at e support,” Hewitt said. “It’s going to private land. This is a successful collaboration.” Hewitt has several other projects in the works, including serving as executive producer of the upcoming Muhammad Ali-Sonny Liston documentary film on the fight’s 50th
Downtown art walks, public art, paint nights in LA By Deborah Carroll Special Sections Writer LA Arts’ goal, in part, is “to foster recognition of how important the arts are to the development of a community,” said Josh Vink, executive director of the nonprofit local arts agency. Via the website for Arts and Culture Lewiston Auburn, www.artsandculturela.org, which is an initiative of LA Arts working with other local businesses and organizations, L/A Arts aims to be “a conduit for the arts, and a supportive entity” for the LAmaine arts scene, supporting both art patrons and contributing artists. Presently, said Vink, “We’re working on a comprehensive cultural plan for LA, based on public surveys, for bringing strategies for maximizing the arts and culture in LA.” Toward that end, “Arts in Education” will begin again this coming the fall, bringing residencies and performance into the schools.
5
“Our goal is to serve every student in LA with a performance and a residency in their school programming, [as well as] some after school,” arts-related activities. “It’s essential,” he explained, for developing an appreciation of the arts at an early age, and fund raising efforts to make this happen are ongoing. Other L/A Arts activities include the popular Ice Festival L/A, occurring ever y winter, bringing ice sculpture, live music, assorted edibles and drinkables, and family friendly entertainment to Lewiston, as well as Art Walk and Concerts in the Park. These events are designed to encourage everyone, from artists to local businesses as well as families, to participate fully and to enjoy the vibrancy of downtown Lewiston Auburn. What began in 2011 as “a grassroots endeavor by community members, artists, and local businesses to celebrate the extraordinary talent of visual artists in L/A and around
Steve Sherlock/Sun Journal
Artist and Lewiston native Charlie Hewitt sits in front of five parts of his seven-piece sculpture at his studio in Portland. The pieces will sit atop 20-foot aluminum poles on Lisbon Street in Lewiston between Ash and Pine streets. anniversary, but his ultimate goal is another sculpture for Lewiston. Moved by the famous Neil Leifer photograph from that Ali-Liston fight in Lewiston, Hewitt sees the image of Ali ready to keep fighting as a metaphor for his life and of Lew iston. His dream is to build an 18-foot-tall bronze statue of Ali in that famous
pose in front of the Colisee, where the fight was held. Because the Lewiston Rattle will be installed on a private lot, any new construction on the site would force Hewitt to move the sculpture. Nothing would make him happier.
said. “Permanence means you have to live with it for the rest of your life, whether you like it or not. Temporary means we can argue over it. One big thing about these pieces, they can be unbolted a nd mov e d t o t he ne x t location.
“I think people can be satisfied with public art as long as it is not permanent,” Hewitt
“Success for me would be the day it is moved to another site. That would be great.”
Maine,” according to its website, www.artwalklewistonauburn.com, Art Walk Lewiston Auburn has blossomed into a diverse medium event covering several blocks of Lisbon Street, inviting attendees to hear, view, purchase and create art. The Art Walk will conclude its 2015 season on the last Friday in September “with an eclectic selection of performances,” said Vink. And, with “over 100 artists displayed this season, more pieces of art have been sold” this year than in any other. At the second to last Art Walk of 2015, on Friday, Aug. 28, an installation of Charlie Hewitt’s sculpture, in the vacant lot across from Forage on Lisbon Street, will be unveiled. This installation by Hewitt, a homegrown LA artist, will be elevated so that it can be viewed and appreciated from a Lisbon Street vantage point. Hewitt’s work, comprised of seven separate sculptures, was inspired by various cultural and historical factors and “has elements that
are very particular and relevant to LA, including a f leur de lis,” said Vink. Other parts of the installation were inspired by Marsden Hartley, an artist also born in Lewiston, as well as by the LA Somali community. Hewitt’s is a temporary piece, created and installed with no municipal funding, said Vink, “It was all privately funded.” In addition to Hewitt’s sculpture, and as in past months, upcoming Art Walks will feature paint parties in DuFresne Plaza, hosted by Wicked Illustrations and AvantGarde Paintbar. Art Walk paint parties, where one can create their own work of art with the assistance of a professional artist, are free to the public and can accommodate and outfit 30 on-the-spot artists with everything from a canvas and paint to inspiration and instruction. “LA Arts is strong,” said Vink, “with a good team and a strong board.” And referring to both LA Arts and LAmaine’s vibrant arts community, he added, “We’ve got a lot going on -- a lot of good things.”
6
OUR TOWN
Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Friday, August 7, 2015
Spy camp to be held in Turner SAD 52 Adult & Community By the end of Spy Academy Educat ion w i l l hold a spy We e k , t h e y ’ l l b e a r e a l camp in August. Mad Science Secret Agent equ ipped w it h ta ke-home St udent a ge 6 to 12 c a n investigation tools ranging become a Mad Science secret from Spy Glasses to Secret spy during the camp Aug. 10 Safes. to 14. Each day will include several They’ll take a journey into the projects that are integrated world of detection, forensics into the Spy Science themed and classified information; go camp. Cost of the camp is undercover with a spy name $249. Early registrations are and decode messages from encouraged. Register and pay other agents using top secret online at www.msad52.maitools and techniques. neadulted.org. Participants will join the Mad Science Bureau of Investigation and sniff out forgeries and counterfeits.
784-1541 20 South Ave. Lewiston, ME 04240
We Rent Almost Everything! • Construction Equipment • Party Needs • Home Improvement Tools
SELF STORAGE South Ave. or Lisbon Rd.
Climate Control & Traditional Storage Clean and Well Lit Cameras & Electronic Security Access 7 Days a Week Best Rates in L/A
SAFE & SECURE Office at Easy Rent-All 20 South Ave. • Lewiston
777-5700
Activities for the whole family Androscoggin Bank Colisée, 190 Birch St. Lewiston. FMI: 7832009, www.thecolisee.com. Offers public skating for all ages.
Four-season destination, with numerous community and sporting activities on its calendar. www.lostvalleyski.com.
Auburn Public Librar y, 49 Spring Street, Auburn. w w w. auburnpubliclibrar y.org. FMI: 333-6640. Stor ytimes for infants and preschoolers, kids’ activities, summer reading programs and more.
Pettengill Park/Union Street Gully, Auburn Parks & Recreation Department, Auburn. FMI: 333-6600, www.auburnmaine. org. An urban park, with a gymnasium, baseball field; softball field; basketball courts; youth football field; horseshoe pits; playground areas; and multi-purpose building.
Lewiston Public Library, 200 Lisbon St., Lewiston. FMI: 5133133; http://lplonline.org/kids. Programs aimed at a wide range of ages and interests. Lewiston Public Skate Park, Lewiston Department of Recreation, Kennedy Park Lew iston. FMI: 513-3005, w w w. ci.lewiston.me.us/recreation/index.htm. Features a concrete, in-ground skatepark with bowls, ramps, stairs and half-pipes; open 8 a.m.-9 p.m., weather permitting.
Ricker Hill Orchards and Farm, 295 Buckfield Road, Turner. FMI: 255-5552, 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 course, and more. Roy’s All Steak Hamburgers & Golf Center, 2514 Turner
Family
Lost Valley Ski Area, 200 Lost Valley Road, Auburn, 784-1561.
page 16 ‰
CULTURE & ENTERTAINMENT The charm and quality of life of the twin cities, Lewiston and Auburn, is partly due to their picturesque location along the Androscoggin River with a skyline of historic mills surrounded by small-town, neighborly communities. Another part of the charm is the year-long list of events and activities that take place in the area. The Auburn Community Concert Band performs free concerts at a public venue all summer long. At the Maine Wildlife Park in Gray you can attend a Native American Pow Wow for two full days of dancing, d r u m m i ng, a nd lea r n i ng
about the animals at the park. The Yarmouth Clam Festival is an annual event in July that features clams and other Maine foods, crafts, a carnival, entertainment, and lots of fun things to do and see. The Kora Shriners present a circus in Lewiston in April that offers great entertainment for t he k ids; adults, too. The Washburn Norlands Living History Center hosts t he annua l Ra lly for Norlands! Civil War Reenactment Weekend in June complete with Confederate and Union infantry actors playing their parts in a mock scrimmage. The Blistered Fingers Family
Welcome! Enjoy your visit to our area. Stay with us and enjoy one of our 100 rooms/suites, plenty of free and convenient parking and convenient location on Exit 75 of the Maine Turnpike. Call us today or visit us at www.firesideinnauburn.com
FIRESIDE INN
& SUITES
Washington Ave., Exit 75, Auburn 777-1777 • info@firesideinnauburn.com www.firesideinnauburn.com
Blueg ra ss Music Fest iva l is held in Litchfield t w ice each year and boasts perfor ma nc es by mu sic ia n s on ba njo a nd f idd le t hat you won’t want to miss. The Moxie Festival in Lisbon Falls is held in July and is all about the soda by the same name, plus entertainment, crafts, f i rework s, a nd food. T he Monmouth Fair is an agricultural fair held in August and celebrates rural life. The Great Falls Balloon Festival is held in August each year on the banks of the Androscoggin River and parks in the Twin Cities downtown areas and offers food booths, craft and trade booths, entertainment, live music, a carnival, demonstrations, contests, and hot air ba lloon rides. The Franco Center in Lewiston is the former St. Mary’s Church which is now t he
venue for a diverse array of top entertainment.
ARTS & MUSEUMS The beauty of the area may be an inspiration to the local artists and photographers whose work you will see in some of t he loca l venues. Come and see their work and other artists’ work at local museums. The Androscoggin Historical Society in Auburn has a vast amount of historical information on this area. Museum L/A in Lewiston is a treasure of historical artefacts from local mills and factories and offers guided tours and educational programs. The Atrium Gallery at the University of Southern Ma ine’s Lew iston-Auburn College, the Bates College Museum of Art, and Lyceum Ga l ler y, a l l i n L ew iston,
L&S WINDOWS Roofing
Siding
Fully Insured Certified Roofing Contractors
Great line of colors & textures to choose from!
Call Today for a FREE Estimate 884 Lisbon St, Lewiston • 783-9200 • landswindows.com Hours M-F 7-4 • Free Estimates • Fully Insured • Family Owned & Operated
present f ine ex hibits a nd guided tours. The Maine Art Glass Studio in Lisbon Falls is a feast for the eyes where you will find gorgeous glass work on display and for sale. The Shaker Museum and Library in New Gloucester is run by a small group of Quakers who offer many workshops and tours of their quaint Shaker village. The Poland Spring Preservation Society historic buildings are worth the trip.
Theaters, cinemas & music venues Community Little Theatre, Auburn, 783-0958 L/A Arts, Lewiston, 782-7228 Maine Music Society, Lewiston, 782-1403 Maine State Music Theater, Brunswick, 725-8769 Midcoast Symphony Orchestra, Lewiston, 371-2082 S c h a f f e r T he a t r e, B a t e s College, Lewiston, 786-6161 The Public Theatre, Lewiston, 782-3200 The Theater At Monmouth, Monmouth, 933-9999, performances at Cumston Hall
OUR TOWN
Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Friday, August 7, 2015
7
RECREATION:
Satisfy your appetite for fun David Sargent Special Sections Writer Something for ever yone seems to be the description of recreation opportunities provided by Androscoggin County communities. The municipal departments cater to all ages, and there are plenty of commercial ventures with even more opportunities. When Auburn Mayor Jonathan P. LaBonté declared that July would be the city’s 30th observance of Park and Recreation Month, he said, “Auburn is a community blessed not only with various types of parks, but also with hardworking and dedicated employees and volunteers that support keeping those parks clean and safe and coordinating programs for people of all ages.” W hether you prefer the rural trails of Mt. Apatite where feldspar and gemstone mining once took place, or you go for the urban playgrounds at Bonney Park, LaBonté urged residents and visitors to the city to “get outside and enjoy the summer in our community.” Jan Biron, Auburn Recreation Department administrative assistant, said adult pickleball is an up-and-coming sport that is similar to tennis and badminton and is played on a tennis court with different boundary lines. “We have two pickleball courts here at the Hasty Community Center and it is played inside from October through March,” she said. A major project is under way at the Pettengill Park complex as the Ingersoll Arena, built in 1994, is repurposed from an ice arena to an indoor turf facility. Jeremy Gatcomb, program leader, said it will feature about 20,000-square-feet of turf, two baseball/ softball batting cages and space for indoor training/practice when it’s ready this fall. There will be lots of fun at a Box Car Drive-In Movie Night scheduled for August 14. It features a contest for children to make a car out of a cardboard box and bring it to the outdoor movie. Judges will choose a winner, and the kids can sit in their cars to enjoy a showing of “Wreck-It Ralph.” It takes place on the upper softball field at Pettengill Park, or in the gym if it rains. This is a Drive-In Theater just for kids, and parents will have to bring lawn chairs or blankets, as real vehicles will not be allowed on the field. Other recreation offered in by Auburn Rec are youth and teen programs for track and field, football and soccer. Fall brings more football and soccer programs, and in the winter there’s
a city-wide Winter Festival as well as youth, men’s league and women’s league basketball. Spring features lacrosse programs, and there is a fishing derby. There’s a full schedule of senior citizen meetings and activities. Auburn has wonderful river walks, and hiking and bicycling trails. Lake Auburn has some great fishing and Mt. Apatite, where feldspar and gem mining took place 100 years ago, has summer and winter access for hikers and cross-country skiers. Ravi Sharma, director of the Auburn RecreSubmitted photo ation Department programs can be reached BOX CAR MOVIE NIGHT -Kids’ creativity comes out with a mid-August Box Car Movie Night in Auburn. by phone at 207-333-6601, or you can go online to w w w.teamsideline.com/auburnme for program and event information. Lewiston’s Recreation Division also features many youth sports programs. Joline Banaitis, deputy director, said field hockey and soccer sign-ups were taking place in late July and August. Pickleball is also popular, as well as youth soccer and coed basketball. She said the coming year will introduce a new “little artists” program for four-to-six year-olds. “Holiday Camps” come along at Christmas and Februar y school vacation week. There’s a toddler gym for age five and under, adult softball, tennis and volleyball, numerous parks throughout the city with recreation fields and equipment, and seniors enjoy day trips as well as a cribbage league, bridge club and bingo.Check the Web site at www.lewistonmaine.gov for more details.
Kait Lavin photo
MOXIE FESTIVAL 5K START -- Runners get set for the 20th running of the 5K race, a highlight of the Moxie Festival at In Lisbon, the big deal every summer is the Lisbon July 10-12. Moxie Festival. This year, July 10-12, the event’s 33rd year was a great success. Tens of thousands of people attend from near and far. Cherie Garnett, secretary/programmer, said Lisbon is happy to have the popular Beaver Park now under its jurisdiction. The new Androscoggin River trail is finished, offering a three-mile walk. “Our day camp program expanded this year to include Cricket Camp for K-1st grades,“ Garnett said. “Our Sunshine Hill Seniors program has many great outings and meals, LISBON CRICKET CAMP -- Parachute games are a treat for kids at the Cricket Camp. cribbage and multi-day trips, and our Free Family Movie nights in the park are a big hit as well.” There also are full schedules for recreation in Greene and Turner. Web sites for those a nd ot her com mu n it ies prov ide much information.
Submitted photo
AUBURN PICKLEBALL -- Adult pickleball is popular at Hasty Community Center.
Submitted photo
8
OUR TOWN
Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Friday, August 7, 2015
POPULAR HISTORY:
Stories handed down from generation to generation By David Sargent Special Sections Writer What were the stories handed down to you by parents and grandparents? What stories will your children be telling to future generations? It might be called “popular history.” Residents of the Twin Cities have many tales that they love repeating, and just about everyone has a different perspective. Let’s look at a few subjects of local interest and see what’s trending.
David Sargent photo Maine State Fair, advertised
PAL HOP -- The PAL Hops at Lewiston City Hall in the early 1960s hold many memories for people who were in L-A as “Always Labor Day Week,” high schools at that time. The dances drew thousands of area teenagers for the weekend events featuring local is long gone, but still alive in memories. It was a fabulous bands. event when crowds poured into Lewiston on trains and trolleys. The Fairgrounds,
now a business park near Marden’s on Main Street, is remembered for a number of special reasons. For decades, it was one of Maine’s premiere harness racing tracks. Plent y of records were set there by drivers as well as horses. Do you remember Walter Case? He had 1,077 wins in 1998 – most wins in a calendar year up to that date. The race track also hosted the early style of stock car racing in the 1950s, and auto daredevil shows there were p op u l a r e v e r y s u m m e r. Even earlier, the fairgrounds hosted hot air balloon ascensions and barnstorming stunt pilots. Before the racetrack and grandstand disappeared, the Grateful Dead appeared
there in 1980. It was said that storekeepers on t hat September weekend joked that they just about broke even between sales and thefts. In addition to farm and craft exhibitions, the Maine State Fair always brought a kidpleasing midway. Often it was the World of Mirth with its orange entrance towers. The midway held wonders for young visitors. The wail of the “Motodrome” sirens announced thrilling shows by motorcycle riders. When winter arrived in the mid 1950s, the “head of the st reet” (Lisbon a nd Ma in st reets) wa s t ra nsfor med into a Christmas wonderla nd. Peck ’s boa sted t he best decorat ions i n t hei r w indows. A nd, of course, that’s where Santa lived. The holiday crowds were shoulder-to-shoulder on Lewiston’s sidewalks. There was one winter that lives in perennial storytelling. The Ice Storm of 1998 began in the first week of Januar y. It was one of the worst natura l disasters in Maine history. Heavy ice on t rees produced g u n-shot sounds as they cracked and fell. Transformers exploded i n blue f la shes at n ig ht. Impassible roads and power outages ex tended over almost three weeks and the storm’s effects were felt for months and years. Was your family “blacked out” ? Did you manage to stay in a dark house for days? Those are the stories that are often told. Floods also brought major damage to L-A. The Spring Flood of 1936 fol lowed a
History page 9 ‰
OUR TOWN
Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Friday, August 7, 2015
David Sargent photo
9
Submitted photo
David Sargent photo
LBJ AT LEWISTON-- President Lyndon Baines Johnson waves to a crowd of FLOOD OF 1936 -- This photo of floodwaters at the height of the Flood of Lewiston residents from the gazebo in the city park where he delivered a 1936 shows floating buildings at the Lewiston end of North Bridge. campaign address on August 20, 1966.
CLAY WEIGH-IN -- The famous 1965 Clay-Liston fight in Lewiston was preceded by the official weigh-in a day earlier. This photo shows Cassius Clay, right, (at that time becoming known as Muhammad Ali) with his trainer, Angelo Dundee, left, and cornerman Bundini Brown, center.
History
was claimed that Al Couture of Lewiston once held the fastest knockout record, KO-ing an opponent in 10.5 seconds.
from page 8
winter of deep snow. Four inches of rain fell on March 12, and the Androscoggin River rose 14 feet above its banks. Small buildings were seen floating down the river. The South Bridge was swept away. An April Fool’s Flood in 1987, the worst flood since 1936, is also well-remembered. Devastation also visited these cities in 1933 when 248 homes were lost in the New Auburn fire. Miraculously, there were only a few minor injuries. Among other top memories of the Twin Cities is the controversial Clay-Liston world’s heavyweight championship fight of March 25, 1965. Local boxing fans also celebrate the career of hometown boy Joey Gamache, who held the WBA Super Featherweight, and WBA Lightweight championship titles. There were some other boxers who shaped Lewiston’s ring history. Maurice (Lefty Lachance) won 115 of his 220 pro fights. Paul Junior (Paul Labbe, Jr.) was a welterweight contender. It
Donna’s Daycare and Preschool Center Helping Kids to Grow & Learn Email DaycareDonna2001@aol.com
977 Sabattus St., Lewiston
784-6769
In sports, champion skiers also put L-A on the map. Auburn’s Johnny Bower was America’s first winner of the Holmenkollen Nordic Combined Championship in Norway in 1968. Tom Upham and Julie Parisien are two other local Olympians. For real champion story tellers, let’s go way back. Imagine native Americans sitting around a campfire on Laurel Hill in Auburn, looking toward West Pitch on the Androscoggin’s Great Falls. That’s where legends began about tribal conflicts and dark-night tricks that lured enemy tribesmen in war canoes over the falls to their deaths. About 100 years ago, tightrope walkers were challenging those falls. Popular history can be as simple as memories of a special family picnic or as tragic as fire and flood. Repeating those stories becomes the heartbeat of a community.
Enjoy Our Outdoor Patio!
A Maine Company Supporting Maine People Since 1877 Think Local... ...Think Patrons Remember... be safe!
Locally owned and operated
Awesome Deli Sandwiches Soups • Salads • Wraps Smoothies Gluten Free Option
HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 7am-9pm • Sun. 10am-8pm 600 Turner Street, Auburn 784-3434 • www.heidisauburn.com
For all the things you value.
Auburn, Maine • www.patrons.com
10 OUR TOWN
Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Friday, August 7, 2015
Nicole Chipman Manager
Pejepscot Title c/o Moncure & Barnicle 9 Bowdoin Mill Island Topsham, Maine 04086
Telephone: (207) 729-0856 Fax: (207) 729-7790 Email: Nicole@mb-law.com
MEET YOUR LOCAL REALTORS
At Home... Around Town... We do it all!!
Laura Jambard-Craig
Cam Luu Realtor
Cam@Legacy-Realty.com
Sales Agent
207 333-0406 cell 207 376-4833 fax
Diane@DianeStaples.com
Laura@Legacy-Realty.net
cell: 207-333-2321 office: 207-376-4830 fax: 207-376-4833
Ann M.J. Parker
Terri Kelsea
207 376-4830
Administrative Assistant 207-376-4830 Office 207-376-4833 Fax Terri@Legacy-Realty.com
681 Sabattus St. Lewiston, ME 04240
Norm & Denise Brodeur Terri@Legacy-Realty.com
www.Legacy-Realty.com
506 Main St. Lewiston, Maine 04240
Cell 207.754.7809
Toll Free 800.784.6873 Ext. 225 Office 207.782.2121 Ext 225 E-Mail AMJPARKER@yahoo.com
OUR TOWN 11
Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Friday, August 7, 2015
MEET YOUR LOCAL REALTORS At Home... Around Town... We do it all!! BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY HomeServices
CENTURY 21 ADVANTAGE 506 Main Street Lewiston, Maine 04240
Office: 207-782-2121 Cell: 207-344-8942 E-mail: angiemwhite@aol.com www.century21-advantage.com
Angela Morin White
Broker/Owner
Each Office is Independently Owned and Operated.
Denis Dufour
Associate Broker, GRI Northeast Real Estate 473 Center Street Auburn, ME 04210 Office: 207-784-0159, ext. 364 Cell: 207-240-2828 Office Fax: 207-777-3715 denisjdufour@gmail.com www.bhhsnere.com
BERKSHIRE Lori Hart HATHAWAY HomeServices
Northeast Real Estate 473 Center Street Auburn, ME 04210 Office: 207-784-0159 Cell: 207-577-7620 Office Fax: 207-777-3715 lorihartrealtor1@gmail.com www.bhhsnere.com www.mainerealestatebyhart.com A member of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates, LLC.
A member of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates, LLC
BERKSHIRE Kelly Pitman
Maurice Rioux
HATHAWAY
Associate Broker
HomeServices
Northeast Real Estate
Associate Broker
Northeast Real Estate 473 Center Street Auburn, ME 04210 Office: 207-784-0159 Cell: 207-577-6187 Office Fax: 207-777-3715 kelapitman@gmail.com www.bhhsnere.com
473 Center Street Auburn, ME 04210 Office 207-784-0159 ext 345 Cell 207-576-3251 Office Fax 207-777-3715 mauricerrealtor@gmail.com www.bhhsnere.com A member of the franchise system BHH Affiliates, LLC.
A member of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates, LLC.
LINDA DAVIS - REALTOR® lindadavis@masiello.com
www.masiello.com
Associate Broker
COLETTE COUTER
FOR ALL OF YOUR REAL REALTOR ESTATE NEEDS (207) 754-2735 CELL (207) 782-2252 FAX 155 Center Street Bldg. A colette@masiello.com Auburn, ME 04210
www.lindadavis.masiello.com
www.ccmainehomes.com
STEVEN BRACKET REALTOR®
stevenbrackett@masiello.com
LICENSED IN ME 207-312-9182 207-795-9683 207-782-8311 207-782-2232
Mobile Direct Office Toll Free
155 Center Street • Building A Auburn, ME 04210 www.stevenbrackett.masiello.com Each office is independently Owned and Operated.
155 Center Street, Auburn, Maine 04210
12 OUR TOWN
Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Friday, August 7, 2015
POLAND, MAINE:
The Ricker family By Dan Marois Special Sections Writer It was in 1971 that Cyndi Robbins first stepped on the grounds of the Poland Spring Inn. She was originally from Chicago and moved to Maine when she was 14 years old. She was now an eager 16-year-old looking for her very first job. “I was hired as a waitress even though I didn’t have any experience. On the opening night of the season, I was taking care of 40 people and the entertainment was the Ink Spots,” said Robbins, noting that the other waitresses on staff had little experience as well. “The evening was a disaster and the next day one of the bosses wanted to fire me. But another boss said that it wasn’t my fault and that the kitchen was to blame because it couldn’t keep the food coming out on time.” It would be 11 years later, in 1982, that she and her husband, Mel Robbins, would become the owners and innkeepers of one of Maine’s most historic properties with a name that has been branded worldwide. Her husband, Mel, passed away in 2007, leaving Cyndi as the sole innkeeper of the vast property. Today, the original Spring & Bottling Houses at Poland Spring have become a museum for visitors of all ages. Inside the historic Bottling House, there are science displays, bottling memorabilia, and a virtual tour of today’s bottling plant.
“I was hired as a waitress even though I didn’t have any experience. On the opening night of the season, I was taking care of 40 people and the entertainment was the Ink Spots” Cyndi Robbins
There’s a gallery of Maine artists, a display of Maine gems, and a gift shop filled with Maine made products. In 1876, the Ricker family opened the Poland Spring House which soon became a popular attraction for the country’s social and political elite. The hotel, eventually comprised of over 350 guest rooms, served guests in the elegant style of a grand hotel with pool room, music hall, bowling alley and expansive dining facilities. Guests came for the refreshing country air and the famed spring water. In 1963, a new hotel, the Poland Spring Inn, was built about 500 yards from the original hotel, where it still stands and hosts guests today. Eventually, “The Lodge” on Route 26, a 33-room hotel was also built. On July 3, 1975 the Poland Spring House burned to the ground in about three-and-a-half hours taking with it the memories of a long and distinguished past. With no insurance for the building, it was never rebuilt.
Visitors to the area are always impressed with the Poland Spring Golf course built in 1896, the oldest golf course at a resort in the United States. The course, originally nine holes, was designed by Arthur Fenn, who is regarded as the first American born golf professional. In 1915, the golf course was enlarged to 18-holes by legendary course designer Donald Ross. The course is open to the public. In 1885, Julius Gasseur began holding religious services for employees at the Poland Spring House. Interest grew to the point that hotel guests were attending the services. In the following years, there was keen interest to build a chapel on the grounds. On September 1, 1912, the All Souls Chapel was officially opened. The namesake was appropriate because the chapel would be non-denominational and open to people of all religious faiths. Today, the Preservation Society maintains the chapel which hosts dozens of weddings from May to October. The Ricker Family inf luence can be seen further north on Route 26, in the Poland town library. In 1962, the town of Poland accepted a bequest from the estate of Jane Jeffrey Ricker for the purpose of building and maintaining a library and community house for the town. The library was to be called the Alvan Bolster Ricker Memorial Library and Community House. Ordinarily it takes from one to two years to set up a library. This monumental task was accomplished in a comparatively short time, due partly to the help of students of the Poland Community School who volunteered to carry books and climb to shelves to stock the new library. The Poland Spring Preservation Society website was the source for much of this article. www.polandspringps.org
23RD ANNUAL GREAT FALLS
BALLOON FESTIVAL AUGUST 21 – 23 2015 LEWISTON/AUBURN MAINE With 3 NEW special shapes—Jewel the Hummingbird, Aquario the Fish Bowl and the Planet Earth balloon.
LEARN MORE • VOLUNTEER • SPONSOR GREATFALLSBALLOONFESTIVAL.ORG
Dan Marois photo
Ricker Memorial Library in Poland
OUR TOWN 13
Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Friday, August 7, 2015
Amber Waterman/Sun Journal
Deborah Carroll photo
The Araxine Wilkins Sawyer Foundation was established in 1935 and the building at 371 Sawyer Road in Greene The original bottling plant and spring at Poland Spring. was dedicated Sept. 10, 1937. The granite building was built solely for the purpose of housing community events and has been in constant use ever since.
LOCAL LEGENDS:
Chautauqua and the last resort Rich Livingston Special Sections Writer
Poland Spring resort The family of Jabez Ricker began operating an inn on the site of the current Poland Spring resort in 1794. About half a century later, Hiram Ricker, who had been suffering from dyspepsia for many years, drank only water from the spring on the edge of the property for about 10 days, and “miraculously” was cured of his illness. While that wasn’t first time members of the Ricker family drank from the spring when they were ill, it was the first time that water was perceived as having medicinal properties. In 1845, the Rickers began sharing the spring water and by 1859 made their first commercial sale of the water. The legend goes that in the late-19th century, people of the big east-coast cities began searching for springs and waters that would prove equally beneficial, to “take the cure.” Some traveled from resort to resort, hoping to find a remedy for a particular problem. Poland, Maine, was considered the end of the line, the last place to turn. It was said that by the time you got to Poland, you were down to “your last resort.” The massive Poland Spring House hotel opened in time for the nation’s centennial celebration, in 1876, and became known as “the Mecca of the fashion, the wealth, and the culture of the country,” transforming the colonial era farm into what was called a “summer city,” by the start of the 20th century. Along with the new century came golf, and with it a steady
stream of celebrity guests that included Teddy Roosevelt, William Howard Taft, Warren Harding and Calvin Coolidge. Joe Kennedy brought his entire clan, and the rogues gallery of photos preserved in the original spring house of the bottling plant includes Gene Tunney, Babe Ruth, Marilyn Monroe, John Barrymore, Joan Crawford and Jimmy Durante. Fifty years ago, the Inn was the training camp for Sonny Liston as he prepared for his fateful fight with Mohammed Ali, in Lewiston. Having demonstrated the “therapeutic” value of Poland Spring water, Hiram Ricker began shipping his water to destinations throughout the U.S., and began the bottling operation in about 1870. The marble spring house preserved on the campus today was built in 1906. The site also houses the Maine State Building, acquired and moved to Poland after the Chicago World’s Fair of 1893, and today is the repository of an eclectic and priceless museum and library collection. While the resort remains a popular tourist destination, locals are more often attracted to the All Soul’s Chapel, home to countless weddings since its dedication in 1912, and the venue for the summer-long concert series that presents local area musical legends to audiences of thousands, extending until the end of August each year.
Araxine Sawyer Memorial Chautauqua was an adult education movement popular in the late-19th and early-20th centuries. Named after Chautauqua Lake in New York state, where the first education assembly was
held, Chautauqua assemblies expanded and spread throughout rural America until the mid 1920s. A Chautauqua Assembly brought entertainment and culture for the whole community, with speakers, teachers, musicians, entertainers, and itinerant preachers. President Teddy Roosevelt was quoted as saying that Chautauqua is “the most American thing in America.” The Chautauqua tradition has been astonishingly preserved in the cozy little brick edifice that has been the most significant public space in Greene, Maine for the past 80 years. The Araxine Sawyer Memorial Foundation building was established in 1935 by John Marshall (better known as J.M.) Sawyer in honor of his late mother. J.M., by then the patriarch of a prominent central Maine mercantile family whose interests included a local grain business, a network of ice cream stands, and dry goods businesses that been extended throughout the Western plains of the U.S. during the railroad expansion of the post Civil War era, created the local venue. Its purpose has been to provide free public programs, including narrated travel films, wildlife films, lectures, musicals, magic shows and more. The mission of the Foundation, which continues performances weekly at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Fridays, from April to November, is “educational and social. Specifically, to do good; to promote good citizenship. To support and encourage clean, wholesome pleasures, customs and usages.” Preservation of the Foundation’s vision and ability to provide free entertainment to hundreds of visitors each summer is still the responsibility of a dedicated board of directors that includes Araxine’s great grand-daughter.
14 OUR TOWN
Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Friday, August 7, 2015
LEWISTON-AUBURN COLLEGE ATRIUM ART GALLERY The Atrium Art Gallery, located in the expansive center of USM’s Lewiston-Auburn College, presents a year-round schedule of exhibitions highlighting Maine artists with solo and group exhibitions of painting, drawing, photography, sculpture, and contemporary crafts. A biennial exhibit, in an open-juried format, features work by artists in Androscoggin, Franklin, and Oxford counties.
Other regular exhibits include The Figure Revealed, with work from life drawing groups around the state. The Inspired Hand is the gallery’s biennial contemporary craft exhibit presented in collaboration with the Maine Crafts Association. The newest exhibition at the Atrium Art Gallery presents an encompassing survey of local Franco-American history, from bluegrass to classical music, shoe shop workers to nurses, the breathtaking Basilica to the modest Grand Trunk Railroad Station. The 59 photographs printed by professional photographer Jere DeWaters, both historical archival copies and contemporary images, from the late 1800s up to 1995, are from the Franco-American Collection at USM’s LewistonAuburn Campus. Franco-American Treasures features selections from several past ex hibits, including Franco- American Work Traditions (1994), Franco-American Music Traditions (1995), and l’Architecture vivante (2001). The past exhibitions were awarded grants from the National Endowment for the Arts, Maine Arts Commission, and Maine Humanities Council.
All photos submitted
Dr. C.V. Clement’s office with Dr. C.V. Clement, left, and Emile Goyette, from the Franco-American Heritage Collection. Clement’s office was located at 374 Lisbon St. He was one of many Quebec-trained physicians who came to Lewiston to serve the immigrants from Canada and their children. Twelve physicians grouped themselves into a French-speaking medical society.
COMPACT UTILITY TRACTORS TO HELP YOU TACKLE JUST ABOUT ANYTHING ON YOUR PROPERTY 1025R FILB Sub Compact Tractor POWERFUL, RELIABLE AND AFFORDABLE ATTACHMENT FRIENDLY FEATURES DOZENS OF IMPLEMENTS AVAILABLE
Images from the work exhibition explored a variety of occupations, local businesses, and trades in Lewiston and Auburn revealing an entrepreneurial spirit and a strong work ethic to provide for and sustain family and community. The archival prints in the Franco-American Music Traditions exhibit cover the rich and varied history of local Franco-American music from the late 1800s up to 1995. Included are images of church choirs, classical music, operettas, parade bands, and popular music. The exhibition l’Architecture vivante, features photographs of 13 buildings in Lewiston that had significance to the early Franco-American community. The black and white prints by Jere DeWaters were made from May through September of 2001. Specific sites were determined by their historical importance within the Franco-American community and their architectural significance. DeWaters comments, “For more than a century these thirteen buildings have been molded and adapted over time to meet ever-changing needs, and as a result they have become part of the cultural landscape of Lewiston. L’Architecture vivante then, is a living architecture–a living
4044R Compact Tractor
WITHOUT COMPROMISE
1987 HERALD HWY UNION, ME 04862 (207) 785-4464 Toll Free 1-877-488-6466
216 CENTER ROAD FAIRFIELD, ME 04937 Like us on (207) 453-7131 Toll Free 1-877-483-2473 Facebook
www.hammondtractor.com
Financing available with approved credit offering cash discounts see dealer for details
history that exists both in the community’s collective memory and its daily life.” The thirteen buildings in the project are the Bates Mill, Saints Peter and Paul Church, the Dominican Block, St. Mary’s Church, St. Dominic’s Building, Healy Asylum, Lewiston City Hall, the Grand Trunk Railway Station, St. Mary’s Hospital, St. Peter’s School, Marcotte Home, F.X. Marcotte Furniture, and the Dominican Convent. Franco American Treasures also includes the recently acquired original score for Dirigo, the official name for the Maine state march, composed by Leo Pepin in 1961, along with other memorabilia from Pepin’s life as a musician and army veteran. The exhibit features the set construction from the 1995 bicentennial musical Lewiston: A New Home, designed by Bill Hamilton and Richard Martin, sketched by Annette Bourque, and painted by Max Ashburn. Twelve feet wide by ten feet tall, the design is a collage of Lewiston landmarks and a view of Lisbon Street in downtown Lewiston and is loaned by Museum LA .
STRONG AND CAPABLE
1110 MINOT AVENUE AUBURN, ME 04210 (207) 782-8921 Toll Free 1-877-482-8287
Edmond Leblond’s Funeral, Auburn, 1918, from the Franco-American Collection. This photograph shows the funeral procession leaving St. Louis Church in Auburn. Leblond is said to have been the first man from the Lewiston-Auburn area to die in World War I.
The Franco-American Collection at USM’s Lewiston-Auburn College is the largest repository of Franco-American archival material in the State of Maine. The Collection’s holdings include historic photographs, rare and out-of print books, local newspaper Le Messager, club minutes and records, family and personal papers, maps, architectural plans, artifacts, and textiles. The Collection is committed to preserving and promoting this unique cultural history.
Recital, April 14, 1957, Edward Little High School, Auburn, from the FrancoAmerican Collection. Leo Pepin, left, composer of Maine’s official state march, had a life-long career in music.
The exhibition continues through Saturday, Oct. 10. USM’s Lewiston-Auburn Campus is located at 51 Westminster Street in Lewiston. Exhibit hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; open to the public free of charge. For more information, call 207-753-6500.
OUR TOWN 15
Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Friday, August 7, 2015
OUR TOWN:
#LAmaine By Maura Moody Lewiston Auburn Economic Growth Council
PEOPLE, PLACE, PROSPERITY. You may have heard this term around town. It has a nice ring to it, but what does this really mean to our community? Lewiston Auburn, Maine, one of the youngest communities in the state, has young, fresh, innovative, diverse energies and ideas. We are a city of immigrants reinventing ourselves with each generation. We have a diverse range of ethnicity, race, culture, and religion. It is this collaboration that sets us apart and is one of our strongest assets.
roaring textile mills. Now, the Twin Cities continue to thrive off that same fiber that is the Mill System District. We are seeing the emergence of high-end quality fashion such as Quoddy Handmade Shoes, and Rancourt & Company. How unique is it to be part of a community where fashion is seen on the runways of Milan, the catalogs of J Crew or the feet of NBA basketball stars? We are a community that produces and serves many products and markets. We make it here. From high-temperature fibers, to state-ofthe-art metal components, to world-class customer service. Industry prospers here.
We have a PLACE worth investing in. There is a decade old myth, passed down to our youth through generations that there is “nothing to do here in LA.” This unpromising narrative of our cities must change, and will change, and it starts with you.
We are PEOPLE working together to make a change.
In one day you could find yourself enjoying live music at Rails, trivia night at Pedro’s, poetry slam at Guthries, a play at local theaters, or stroll through an art walk where you can enjoy a locally brewed Baxter beer. The opportunities are endless.
LAmaine is a place where people can celebrate their traditions and business can prosper.
We are making it here and getting noticed for what we have in LAmaine. Recently, a trade representative from Hong Kong came to visit LA. Yes, you read that right – Hong Kong in LAmaine.
There are many residents within this community who want to see a change and live their daily routine doing just that, sometimes in the smallest of ways, nonetheless, making a difference.
We are traveling outside Maine to bring people here, to spread the word, and to share our story to spark international interest.
The Kennedy Park Bandstand Restoration Committee, over the course of a few years, raised $161,214 in order to restore the Kennedy Park gazebo. This gazebo was used as a speaking ground for some of the most influential politicians, such as John F. Kennedy and Lyndon B. Johnson.
There are many ways to get involved in your community. Through the Chamber of Commerce you can discover the many agencies and organizations working to improve the lives of local people and the quality of our place. Invest your time in LAmaine. You can help make a difference.
In a matter of two months Lewiston natives and LA community members put together the documentary, “Raising Ali,” a movie that documents the power of our people to put on an event of world significance in 17 days that, today, provides lessons and inspiration for us to make it here. Today, here in LAmaine you can sit outside enjoying fine French cuisine, on the street, with buildings dating back to the 1800s towering over you. You will witness the bustle of traffic going by, the noise of construction that confirms the city’s prosperity, and the subtle conversations of many different languages that make up our community. Years ago, the Twin Cities thrived off the
Submitted photos
PEOPLE: Bates College students gather around local community members Jared Lussier and Maura Moody during the Oxford Forward Event, 2015.
We have PROSPERITY.
PLACE: Overlooking LA with Bates Mill No. 5 on the right.
We are PEOPLE making this a PLACE that PROSPERS. Come here. Make it here. Join our story here.
#LAmaine. Use it, don’t abuse it. PROSPERITY: Overlooking toward Lewiston and the Mill System District.
16 OUR TOWN
Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Friday, August 7, 2015
Androscoggin Leadership Development Institute Leadership is one of the most important ingredients needed to build a strong, thriving and vital community. The future of Androscoggin County depends on the quality and commitment of its leaders, now and in the future. Recognizing this, the Androscoggin County Chamber of Commerce hosts the Androscoggin Leadership Development Institute, a program that will nurture quality leaders who are pre-pared to meet the challenges facing our region. PURPOSE : The A ndroscoggin Leadership Development Institute is designed to enhance leadership abilities through skill building and interactive sessions with experienced leaders. The program motivates aspiring leaders to assume positions of greater responsibility in business, community organizations, and government. It also fosters a greater understanding of the current and future needs of our community and the opportunities for individuals to make a mean-ingful difference in addressing those needs. PROGR AM STRUCTURE : The Institute is a 12-week program offering valuable information and hands-on experiences designed to enhance leadership potential; to channel personal strengths; and to cultivate interest in community service. The September-November program is conducted by a professional facilitator. The Institute has been approved for continuing education unit credits.
Lewiston-Auburn Greek Festival
This year’s Lewiston-Auburn Greek Festival will start at 4 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 10 and cont inue t hroug h 10 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 12. The festival’s slogan is “Once a Year… Everyone is Greek!” Admission is free. Join in the Greek dancing on Friday and Saturday evenings with free dance lessons. A w ide va riet y of Greek foods will be served for lunches and dinners. Greek past r ies w i l l be ava i lable for purchase. Games will be available for children. Other W HO SHOULD A PPLY: T he A nd roscogg i n Leader- festival attractions include ship Development Institute is appropriate for all of the a taverna, bazaar, book sale, and tours of Holy Trinity Greek following: Orthodox Church at 155 Hogan Road in Lewiston, the location of the festival. For more information, call 207-783-6795.
• A business person who wants to develop leadership skills for use in the workplace or the community
• A volunteer or board member of a community organization looking to lend greater support to the organization’s development
Family from page 6
• A community member with a desire to be involved to Road,Route 4. FMI: 782-2801, http://roysgolf.com/. Spacious golf driving range, mini golf course, baseball and softball make a difference. batting cages.
Enrollment is limited. Financial aid is offered. For more Sparetime Recreation, 24 Mollison Way, Lewiston. FMI: 786information, visit www.androscoggincounty.com.
2695, www.sparetimerec.com/. A bowling center featuring automatic scoring and bumper systems to allow fun for the youngest bowlers; also, arcade with pool tables, air hockey and foosball. Taber’s, 473 Lake Shore Drive, Auburn. FMI: 784-2521. Mini-golf and driving range overlooking Lake Auburn. Snack shack.
Celebrating over 40 years...
Are You Tired of Living Alone? Our one bedroom apartments include all this for only $2490 per month
Commercial & Residential Weekly • BiWeekly • Monthly Maintenance
Services available include: Breakfast Transportation Light Housekeeping Private Bathroom Free Laundry Room Private Kitchen Heat & Electricity Activities
Inground & Aboveground Pools Liner Replacements Installations
For More Information Worry-Free Assisted Living Retirement Community Call 207-786-7149
Gift Certificates & Financing Available
24 Hour Nursing Services
MONTELLO
HEIGHTS
www.montelloheights.org Retirement Community 550 College Street, Lewiston
LISBON 206 Lisbon Road
353-8406 SERVICE • POOLS • LINERS • SPAS
Thorncrag Nature Sanctuary, Highland Spring Road, Lewiston. Contact: 782-5238. This wildlife preserve features an elevation of 510 feet, the highest point in the city. According to the web site www.avcnet.org/stanton/thorncrg.htm, Thorncrag has a variety of wildlife habitat such as upland wetlands, mixed forest, restored farm meadows, vernal pools, coniferous old-growth forest, and 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. YMCA of Auburn-Lewiston, 62 Turner Street, Auburn. FMI: 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. YWCA of Central Maine, 130 East Avenue, Lewiston. FMI: P7954050. Comprehensive aquatics programs, including a swim team, instruction, therapeutic and recreational classes. The YWCA also offers a summer camp. www.ywcamaine.org/.
OUR TOWN 17
Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Friday, August 7, 2015
Professional theater for Maine The Public Theatre:
Subscription Shows Each Subscription includes one ticket to each of these four shows, plus a BONUS t icket good to br i ng one person to one of these shows. Tickets to these shows are c u r rent l y on l y av a i lable through a subscription.
A HOLE-IN-ONE COMEDY! PUT FOUR WITTY WOMEN ON A GOLF COURSE AND WATCH THEM GO.
Not included in t he Subscription, you can purchase tickets to these shows NOW by calling 207-782-3200.
What Rhymes with America
Dec. 11 - 13, 2015
March 11 - 20, 2016 by Melissa James Gibson
Oct. 16 - 25, 2015
“PEOPLE DON’T LIKE CHANGE. WHAT THEY REALLY LOVE IS THE SAME IN DISGUISE.”
by Frederick Knott, adapted by Jeffrey Hatcher
Crossing Delancey
Wait Until Dark
A HEART-POUNDING NEW ADAPTATION OF THIS SUSPENSE-FILLED CLASSIC.
May 6 - 15, 2016 by Susan Sandler
Jan. 22 - 31, 2016
WHO NEEDS MATCH. COM WHEN YOUR GRANDMOTHER KNOWS A MATCHMAKER?
by Norm Foster; Directed by Judith Ivey
Fundraiser Shows
The Ladies Foursome
A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens, adapted by Christopher Schario
The Public Theatre 31 Maple Street Lewiston, Maine 04240
James, the 2015 Season is sure to be a perception-altering ride. A TAM subscription offers savings and exclusive benefits like priority seating and ticket exchanges. Gold, Flex, General, or Senior Passes are available for purchase, so whether you want a ticket for each show or four tickets to one show, there’s an option for you. To reser ve sing le t ickets, subscript ions, or a rra nge g roup sa les, plea se v isit w w w.theateratmonmouth. org or call the box office at 207-933-9999.
Theater at Monmouth
Turn of the Screw
For 2015, Theater at Monmouth has planned a season o f M a g i c , Mu r d e r, a n d Mayhem! Season 46 peeks into nature of reality and illusion, pokes fun at the foibles and fables of romances young and old, and will prick-up the hairs on the back of your neck . From Sha kespea re to Stoppard and Coward to
June 26 – August 21
by Henry James, adapted by Jeffrey Hatcher; Directed by James Noel Hoban
by Noël Coward; Directed by Brendon Fox July 16 – August 22
Fool of the World and the Flying Ship | Family Show
A Midsummer Night’s Dream
Adapted by Daw n McA nd r e w s ; D i r e c t e d b y Ia n Carlsen
by W i l l ia m Sha kespea re ; Directed by Janis Stevens
June 27 – August 20
July 23 – August 23
The Real Inspector Hound
Ruddigore, or the Witch’s Curse | Fall Musical
by Tom Stoppard; Directed by Matthew Arbour
Music by A rt hur Su lliva n | libretto by W.S. Gilbert; Directed by Richard Sewell
July 30 – August 21
September 17-27
See The Difference Your Front Door is a First Impression
The Winter’s Tale by William Shakespeare; Directed by Dawn McAndrews
BEFORE
July 9 – August 22
Fallen Angels
Community Little Theatre announces 76th season Auburn, ME (June 30, 2015) – Community Little Theatre (CLT) has unveiled their plans for their 76th season. The 2015-2016 shows are to include two straight shows, or non-musicals, and three musicals. The Straight shows include “Shakespeare in Holly wood” a nd “Aug u st : Osage Cou nt y ” a nd the three musicals are “The Addams Family”, “Little Shop of Horrors” and a 2016 summer show this is still to be announced. The 76th season is set to open in November w ith the musica l “The Addams Family” directed by Kay Warren. “The Addams Family” runs from November 6th-15th, 2015, and is written by Marshall Brickman and Rick Elice with music and lyrics by Andrew Lippa and is based on characters created by Charles Addams. “ In February, CLT brings the laughs with “Shakespeare in Holly wood”, written
by Ken Ludwig and directed by Mitchell Clyde Thomas. The show runs February 12th-21st, 2016.
it will be!” Performance dates for the surprise show will be August 19th – 28th, 2016.
CLT’s second musical of the season resurrects an all-time favorite, “Little Shop of Horrors” with book and lyrics by Howa rd A sh ma n a nd music by Alan Menken and is based on the film by Roger Corman with screenplay by Charles Griffith. Running from April 15th-24th, 2016, the show is set to be directed by Vincent S. Ratsavong.
December 11th, 12th, 13th of 2015 will set the stage for the theatre’s fundraiser “A Holiday Spectacular”. This holiday show will feature selections from your favorite holiday songs, dance variations from “The Nutcracker”, a special visit from the Teen and Youth Theater Projects, local High School Choirs, Santa Clause and a special guest appearance from everyone’s favorite Disney Snow Queen.
Family drama is central in CLT’s fourth show of the season, with “August: Osage County” written by Tracy Letts, directed by Adam Blais and running June 3rd12th, 2016. CLT’s last show of the season is still to be announced. “We’re working on bringing in something really exciting,” said CLT’s Executive Director, Karen Mayo. “We plan to announce the show in February of 2016, so stay tuned in to find out what
Community Little Theatre’s mission is to provide education and personal exposure to the art of live entertainment in the form of both musicals and non musical productions. They are a local, non-profit, and volunteer driven, membership organization whose members offer a wide variety of personal talents. CLT is one of the oldest continuous community theaters in Maine.
Complete $1,355
AFTER
Are You Ready For A Change? Call for a FREE ESTIMATE
Shawnee Steps
by American Concrete Industries
Handcrafted Maine-Made Steps Since 1957
1022 Minot Ave, Auburn, ME 04210
784 -1388 www.shawneesteps.com
18 OUR TOWN
Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Friday, August 7, 2015
Worship Directory Auburn Seventh-day Adventist Church Located at 316 Minot Ave., Auburn
Saturday services Sabbath School 9:15 - 10:40 AM • Children & Adults study classes Worship Service • 10:50 AM to 12:15 PM Pastor/Evangelist
A Doorway to Compassion and Courage
Rick Kuntz
Trinity Episcopal Church
We welcome all to fellowship with us!
Camp Meeting-Freeport
247 Bates Street, Lewiston • Phone # 207-312-9410 Sundays: May - September, Worship Service 9AM October - April, Worship Service 10AM http://trinitylewiston.episcopalmaine.org
67 Pownal Rd
August 7-15 - Special Speakers Events all day! All are welcome to join
Minot United Methodist Church Minot Corner • 207-844-0288 Sunday Worship • 9:45 am Old Fashion Hymn Sing • 10:00 am Worship Children's Time Available
We look forward to you joining us for worship!
ALL ARE WELCOME HERE.
4th Thursday of each Month "Sharing a Common Meal" 5:30p-6:30p
Church Services are held on Sundays from 10:00-11:00a.m. Services are led by Pastor Ed Wurpel.
Blessings, Pastor Cheryl Decker
OF
PEACE
The Roman Catholic Parish of Lewiston, Maine
Prince of Peace Parish Office P.O. Box 1540 - 16 Ste. Croix Street Lewiston, ME 04240
WELCOME
Visiting from away?
Seeking a parish to call home?
Are you interested in learning more about the Catholic faith?
Questions about baptism; religious instruction for children, youth and adults; marriage preparation?
Is a family member sick at home?
How may we help you?
Office Hours 8:30 am-5:00 pm Monday thru Thursday
Our Churches:
Telephone: (207) 777-1200
Basilica of Saints Peter & Paul, 122 Ash Street, Lewiston
Email: pop@portlanddiocese.org
Holy Cross Church, 1080 Lisbon Street, Lewiston
Visit our website for summer Mass times: www.princeofpeace.me
398 Route 202, Greene Our church is a Bible-preaching, independent fellowship of friendly believers following our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Everyone is Welcome! Open Hearts~Open Minds~Open Doors
PRINCE
Greene Christian Community Church
Holy Family Church, 607 Sabattus Street, Lewiston
CHRISTIAN SCIENCE CHURCH 79 Lake St., Auburn, Me Sunday Service 10AM Sunday School at same hour
Community Baptist Church 9 Main St., Sabattus, ME
375-4337 Sunday Service 9am Pastor Russell Stewart www.cbcsabattus.org
Youth Group - Bible Studies - Food Pantry Sunday Worship Services
We invite you to join us at
9:45 am and 6:00 pm Sunday School and Wednesday Evening Services starting in September
Court Street Baptist Church
call or check the website for further information
Sharing the Light of Christ through Sharing the Life in Christ
129 Court Street Auburn
207-784-6661
August 30 - 6:00 pm Ken Medema Concert September 6- 6:00 pm The Dunnemans Music Ministry September 13 - 6:00 pm Mark Thallander and Glenda Winkle-Morrow www.CtStBaptistChurch.org
Rev. Dr. David R. Clark, Pastor
OUR TOWN 19
Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Friday, August 7, 2015
Worship Directory UNITY BIBLE CHURCH A Bible-Centered Ministry VBS August 17-21, 5:30 -8:00 pm Children of all ages Contact Unity for more information 541 College St, Lewiston 784-1693 www.unitybible.com >WORSHIP: Sunday at 10:00AM<
GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH 757 Summer St., Auburn • 782-9697
Summer Worship Hours June to September Saturday at 5pm and Sunday at 9:30am Worship Hours from September to June Saturday at 5 pm and Sunday at 10:30am with Sunday School at 9am Rev. Marian Marks, Pastor We are rooted in the Gospel's promise that we are saved by God's Grace. In joyful response we seek to be faithful stewards of God's gifts in service to our neighbor.
Auburn Church of the Nazarene 38 Summer Street • 783-9656
Sunday School 9:30am Morning Service 10:45am Evening Service 6pm Wednesday Bible Study 9:30am Saturday Service 5:30pm
E AST AUBURN
BAPTIST CHURCH
WE WELCOME YOU TO JOIN US:
Saturdays 5:00 pm WORSHIP SERVICE m Yo th 87: :00007 p: 0 m0 AmT M Ou SP H EGRrEo( YuOpU T H ) www.atmospherechurch.com
Sundays
9:00 & 11:00 am WORSHIP SERVICES Child care kidskids programs avaliable all services Childand care and programs available at allatservices 560 Park Avenue, Auburn www.eabcministries.com 207-782-0348
70 Hogan Road, Lewiston A Family Friendly Church with Programs and Ministries for all ages.
Rev. Richard Waller
UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 439 Park Avenue, Auburn • 782-3972 Reverend Jacquelyn Brannen "Open Hearts, Open Minds, Open Doors"
Summer Hours from June to end of August Sunday Service 8:30AM & 10:00AM
We Welcome Everyone!
Keeping it simple. Loving God. Loving People.
Sunday Worship Services 8:30AM & 10:30AM Children’s Ministry 10:30AM 90 Lewiston Rd. Mechanic Falls, ME
Tel: 207.345.9501 Web: MechanicFallsVineyard.com Email: Info@mechanicfallsvineyard.com
Summer Schedule: Sunday Services 8am & 9:45am Evening Services - 5pm
No Evening Services during the month of July or August.
Wednesday’s Fellowship in the Word August to June 10am & 6pm Everyone Welcomed!!
20 OUR TOWN
Advertising Supplement to the Sun Journal, Lewiston, Maine, Friday, August 7, 2015
LANDMARKS:
Reflections of history or natural beauty By David Sargent Special Sections Writer Landmarks can be ref lections of history or natural beauty. Landmarks of both kinds abound in the Lewiston-Auburn area, and sometimes the residents of these communities overlook the treasures to be found within just a few miles.
Lewiston, is the Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, whose towering 168-foot-tall spires grace the city skyline. Several years ago, Ellen MacDonald Ward described, in Downeast Magazine, the remarkable view of the building from Lewiston’s streets. She praised “its sheer mass towering over surrounding houses and tenements and businesses, like a massive manifestation of the Scriptures in stone.”
Most notable, and directly in the heart of
The cornerstone was laid in 1872, and it
was eventually finished and consecrated in the late 1930s. Its great rose window was modeled after that of the cathedral at Chartres in France. Granite columns soar 100 feet upwards to an immense barrel-vaulted ceiling, and high above the back of the church, rears the elegant old Casavant organ, with its several thousand pipes. On Monument Hill in Leeds a n obelisk was erected by one of Maine’s most significant Civil War heroes and his brothers. It’s well-worth a three-quarter mile hike up the wooded hill for a stunning panoramic view. Located at the summit, the obelisk was a “Monument to Peace” after the Civil War. Major General Oliver Otis Howard and Brig. Gen. Charles Henry Howard, natives of Leeds, placed the obelisk in 1895 to honor their brother, Reverend Roland Bailey Howard, secretary of the American Peace Society, and to honor the town’s 161 soldiers and sailors who
served in the Civil War. This is the largest per capita number serving in the war of any town in the state of Maine. Several attractions of nature also rank high among the area’s landmarks. Chief among them would be the Great Falls on the Androscoggin River. Residents of the Twin Cities see them daily in all their seasonal beauty and might. In recent years, river walks afford special views of the river from an old railroad trestle, now maintained for pedestrian traffic. A publicly accessible path leads to a lookout platform on West Pitch, the high point on the Auburn side, where an easy walk is rewarded with a great view. A mong other memorable landmarks are Shaker Village in New Gloucester, the Maine Wildlife Park in Gray, and the Oxford Casino.
Submitted photos BASILICA OF SAINTS PETER AND PAUL: The spires of Lewiston’s Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul can be seen from THE GREAT FALLS: This postcard view of the Great Falls between Lewiston and Auburn shows a profile of “the old many points throughout the city. At its front center is a great rose window modeled after that of the cathedral at man of the falls,” a rock formation that is no longer there. West Pitch is to the left in this picture. Chartres in France.
Androscoggin County Facts
Androscoggin County Address: 2 Turner Street Auburn, Maine 04210 Tel: (207) 784-8390 Fax: (207) 782-5367
Androscoggin County, incorporated in 1854, is a county in southern Maine that hosts two of Maine’s largest cities, Lewiston and Auburn, also k now n as the “Tw in 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. Population: 107,604 (2013 estimate)
Land Area: Land area in square miles, 2010 = 467.93 Persons per square mile, 2010 = 230.2 Incorporation date: 1854 County seat: Auburn Cit ies, tow ns a nd tow nsh ips i n A nd r o s c o g g i n C ou nt y i nc lude Auburn, Durham, Greene, Leeds, Lewiston, Lisbon, Livermore, Livermore Falls, Mechanic Falls, Minot, Poland, Sabattus, Turner and Wales.
Housing units, 2013 = 48,956 Homeownership rate, 2008-2012 = 66.1% Median value of ow ner-occupied housing units, 2008-2012 = $156,700 Per capita money income in the past 12 months (2011 dollars), 2007-2011 = $23,663 Median household income, 20082012 = $44,826 Source: U.S. Census