AUBURN, ME – Fontaine Family Real Estate is proud to announce that they have been honored with the prestigious Chris Greicius Society of Hope Award by Make-A-Wish. This esteemed recognition is awarded to donors who have contributed $100,000 or more over time, highlighting their ongoing commitment to delivering hope to children with critical illnesses and their families when they need it most.

The Chris Greicius Society of Hope Award, named after the 7-year-old boy whose wish to be a police officer inspired the creation of Make-A-Wish in 1980, celebrates donors who have shown extraordinary dedication to supporting the mission of Make-A-Wish. Since its inception over 30 years ago, the award has honored individuals and organizations that have significantly contributed to granting more than 360,000 wishes in the U.S. and its territories.

We are incredibly honored to receive the Chris Greicius Society of Hope Award. Supporting Make-A-Wish and helping to bring joy and hope to children facing critical illnesses has been a core part of our mission. We are deeply grateful for this recognition and remain committed to continuing our support for this wonderful cause.

Fontaine Family Real Estate’s commitment to Make-A-Wish is exemplified by their annual Bid for Wishes silent auction, which has raised substantial funds over the years to help make dreams come true for children in need. Their recent 11th Annual Bid for Wishes silent auction alone raised $25,000 in loving memory of Jackson Gibson, contributing to the significant milestone recognized by this award.

We believe in the power of a wish to change lives, and we are dedicated to supporting Make-A-Wish in their efforts to bring hope and happiness to children and their families. This award inspires us to continue our efforts and make an even greater impact in the future.

 Chris Greicius Society of Hope Awarded to Fontaine Family

AUBURN, ME – Make laughter a priority this weekend at Great Falls Comedy Club on July 6, with co-headliners, Alex Temple and Casey Watson.

Keep your holiday weekend rolling with laughter as two of Maine’s best, young and up-and-coming comics take the stage on Saturday night. 

Temple has been performing around New England and in New York City and recently moved on to the next round of the Last Comix Standing comedy competition at Mohegan Sun Casino in Connecticut.  Watson is the winner of the 2023 New England’s Funniest Comedian competition at Aura in Portland and a regular host at Empire Comedy Club.  Both are sure to make you laugh.   

Tickets can be found at https://www.greatfallscomedyclub.com or purchased at the door.  Great Falls Comedy Club is located inside Craft Brew Underground at 34 Court Street, Auburn, under the red awning.   

For more information contact the club at info@greatfallscomedyclub.com or by phone at 207-200-5366.

LEWISTON, ME — The Public Theatre in Lewiston will present Litchfield, Maine-native Scott Moreau and his one-man show, “Late and Alone: An Intimate Portrait of Johnny Cash,” on July 13 and 14.  Moreau has traveled the world performing as Johnny Cash for over a decade and is regarded as one of the foremost interpreters of Johnny Cash’s iconic music.

Initial sales for the event have proven so successful that The Public Theatre has added an additional matinee on Saturday, July 13 at 3:00 pm.

 “Late And Alone” had its world premiere in 2018 at New York City’s famed Feinstein’s/54 Below.  Moreau embodies “The Man in Black” as he performs all of Cash’s hits plus some “deep cuts” while telling anecdotes and more in-depth stories spanning nearly 50 years of Cash’s musical life. You’ll hear songs from the American Recordings, including his iconic epitaph, “Hurt.” Exclusive to these shows at The Public Theatre in Lewiston, Moreau has prepared two new songs for his set.

In addition to his solo career performing as Johnny Cash, Moreau has appeared nationally as Johnny Cash in regional productions of the Broadway hit, “Million Dollar Quartet.”

“Late and Alone: An Intimate Portrait of Johnny Cash” will be performed at The Public Theatre on Saturday, July 13 at 3:00 pm & 7:30 pm, and Sunday, July 14 at 2:00 pm. Tickets are $33. Discounted Student and Youth ticket prices available. For tickets call 782-3200 or visit ThePublicTheatre.org.  Theatre Location: 31 Maple St, Lewiston.

“Late And Alone” is sponsored by Uncle Andy’s Digest/Lydia Media and Baxter Brewing. Season Underwriters: Sun Journal, Platz Associates, and Bennett Radio Group.

AUBURN, ME — Home At Last-Maine Real Real Estate Co’s newest Branch Office celebrated its Ribbon Cutting and Grand Opening on Wednesday, June 12th, with more than 100 attendees throughout the day. Michelle Gosselin, the Branch Owner, along with the L/A Chamber of Commerce, organized the event. The guests included local dignitaries, Board Members, Mayor Harmon, as well as numerous family members, friends, and business associates.  Michelle Gosselin and her teammates, Elizabeth Splane & Tim Ervin invite you to stop by to receive a free gift during the month of June. The branch office is located at 229 Center Street, Suite 9, Auburn.

Home At Last Team: Tim Ervin, Elizabeth Splane, Michelle Gosselin Ervin, Marlene Jolicoeur and Shanna Cox, LA Chamber President. Photo Credit: Leah’s Lens Photography

 LEWISTON, ME  — Central Maine Healthcare (CMH), which includes Central Maine Medical Center (CMMC) in Lewiston, Bridgton Hospital, Rumford Hospital and numerous healthcare practices, is a recipient of the 2024 IPRO Quality Award. The award from the Island Peer Review Organization recognizes commitment to and success in improving patient outcomes and reducing readmissions. 

Central Maine Healthcare is committed to improving outcomes and reducing readmissions, in part by improving transition plans from the hospital to home, consistently following up with patients after they are discharged and by making referrals to care management providers within our network, among other efforts.   

“This award really says a lot about the work being done by Quality Services and others here at CMH,” said John Alexander, MD, chief operating officer, Central Maine Healthcare.

“Reducing readmissions means reducing healthcare costs, but more importantly, it means our team members are making sure our patients are cared for while they are in our hospitals and that they get the care they need after they leave so they can stay home and stay well.” 

“Central Maine Healthcare exemplifies the dedication of healthcare providers across the spectrum who have committed themselves to providing the highest quality of care,” said Clare Bradley, MD, IPRO’s senior vice president and chief medical officer. “It has done so despite the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, staffing shortages, an aging workforce and growing number of patients with complex needs.” 

IPRO is a non-profit organization that works with government agencies, providers and patients to implement innovative programs that bring policy ideas to life. IPRO holds contracts with federal, state and local government agencies, as well as private-sector clients, in more than 34 states and the District of Columbia. 

Angela Dubuc, system director of quality services, Central Maine Healthcare, accepts IPRO award.

LEWISTON, AUBURN, ME — In 2023, seven people died in traffic crashes in Lewiston and Auburn. In the past decade, 46 people have died in crashes in the two communities.

“We do not believe any number of deaths are acceptable,” said Jonathan LaBonté, Auburn’s Director of Transportation Systems. “That’s why our city council passed a resolve demonstrating our commitment to Vision Zero principles and supporting the Safe Streets and Roads for All grant process.”

As part of the process, Lewiston and Auburn are asking people who live, work, and play in either city to take a 5-minute survey to identify their biggest road safety concerns. The survey asks respondents to identify where they feel unsafe walking, using a wheelchair, bicycling and riding in a vehicle on local streets.

The survey is the first of a number of events, meetings, and public opportunities to shape individual Safety Action Plans for each community. Led by the Androscoggin Transportation Resource Center (ATRC), the Lewiston-Auburn Complete Streets Committee, and staff from both cities – the plans will outline the changes needed to make streets safer for everyone.

The Safety Action Plans are funded through a Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) grant from the Federal Highway Administration. The grant requires that local communities follow the?Safe System Approach,?which sets a goal of zero deaths or serious injuries on roadways – also often known by the term “Vision Zero.”

“Input from residents is critical,” said Kevin Gagné, Lewiston Public Works Director. “Our crews drive these roads every day and in all conditions, but hearing directly from residents provides us with first-hand knowledge of your experience. Also, your voice helps us with a holistic view of road safety issues from those who face unique challenges that are not always evident in general traffic data. Your input will lead to a more inclusive approach to road safety planning.”

“When we’re done with these plans, both cities will be eligible for follow-up funding from the same program – so we can get to work building those needed sidewalks, safer intersections, trails, and safer bike routes, etc.” said Larry Allen, Transportation Director at ATRC.

The development of Auburn and Lewiston’s Safety Action Plans is taking place in a similar timeframe as other Safe Streets and Roads for All grant work in Greater Portland, Sanford/Springvale and the Bangor area. 

You can complete the survey online. Paper copies of the survey in English, French, Portuguese, Somali, and Spanish are available at the Clerk’s Office at both City Halls, and both cities’ public libraries. It should not take more than 5-10 minutes to complete and all answers are confidential. The survey will be open through July 20th.

LEWISTON, ME — The 2024 Summer Reading program at Lewiston Public Library begins Monday, June 24th and will run until Saturday, August 17th. The library will have free public events, performers and programs for children, teens, and adults throughout the summer. Check the library’s website at www.lplonline.org/events-programs for a full list of upcoming events.

For the Summer Reading program, all ages will be using a bookmark to track reading and activities for free books and prizes. Pick up a bookmark at the library, complete the activities listed, and turn it in at the library to be entered into our end-of-summer prize drawings. Children and Teens will also get to choose a free book to keep for every reading bookmark completed.

All ages may complete as many reading bookmarks as they wish throughout the summer reading program. We are encouraging participants not only to read or listen to books but also make a new craft or recipe or explore a favorite place in our beautiful city or a new landmark in our wondrous state. The first 10 participants of each age group to turn in a completed bookmark will also receive a free T-shirt with the Summer Reading logo. Bookmarks are available starting on Friday, June 21st.

Summer Reading t-shirts will be available to purchase at the first-floor service desk. Adult shirts are $15 and children’s shirts will be $10. Various sizes are available while supplies last. Summer t-shirts are generously supported by the Friends of LPL.

Admission is free to all Summer Reading events and no library card is required to participate in the reading programs. Prizes must be picked up in person at the library.

The Lewiston Public Library is located downtown at 200 Lisbon Street at the corner of Pine Street. More information on the 2024 Summer Reading program is available by contacting the Lewiston Public Library at 207-513-3135 or LPLReference@lewistonmaine.gov.

LEWISTON, ME – Andwell Health Partners (formerly Androscoggin Home Healthcare + Hospice) is pleased to announce its highly anticipated Annual Butterfly Release Celebration, an extraordinary event designed to honor our loved ones. Set against a backdrop of serenity and natural beauty, this unique gathering promises to be an unforgettable experience for all participants.

The celebration will take place on Saturday, July 13 from 11am to 1pm at Geiger Elementary School, located in the heart of the Lewiston community. Attendees will be treated to an array of activities, including soul-stirring music, light refreshments, and the chance to connect and share treasured memories with others who understand the significance of remembrance.

At the core of this special occasion is the solemn reading of names, where we honor those for whom the butterflies have been dedicated. As the moment unfolds, the air will be filled with emotion, love, and reflection. The climax of the event will be the grand release of nearly a thousand butterflies, symbolizing the transformation of life and providing a truly breathtaking sight.

“Andwell’s annual Butterfly Release Celebration offers a uniquely beautiful and meaningful way to pay tribute to our loved ones,” said Leslie Ogilvie, Community Relations and Development Manager of Andwell. “It allows us to come together as a community, share our stories, and embrace the healing power of remembrance. This event has become a beloved tradition, fostering connections and creating lasting memories for all those who attend.”

To ensure your participation in this poignant celebration, you can purchase your butterfly on https://andwell.org/get-involved/butterfly-release/. Each butterfly can be purchased for $30, and the proceeds will contribute to the realization of this remarkable event.

This is an opportunity not to be missed, as Andwell’s Butterfly Release Celebration promises to be a source of solace, inspiration, and beauty for all who attend.

 NORTHEAST HARBOR, ME—From Tuesday, June 25 to Thursday, June 27, the grassroots nonprofit Finding Our Voices will accompany Maine Seacoast Mission to outer islands aboard Mission vessel Sunbeam. During the Mission’s regular visitation schedule to provide outreach and health services, Finding Our Voices and Founder and CEO Patrisha McLean will help raise awareness about domestic violence and abuse, and provide opportunities for guidance. 

In line with the Mission’s guideline of “meeting people where they are” as well as Island Outreach programmatic activities, the CEO and founder of Finding Our Voices Patrisha McLean as well as the organization’s only full-time staff member Mary Kamradt will join Mission staff in making informal visits with island residents. Both McLean and Kamradt are survivors of domestic abuse. In addition to the visits, Isle au Haut and Frenchboro will host dessert parties and distribute Finding Our Voices literature. On Matinicus, the Mission will host a cookout on the wharf with Finding Our Voices providing opportunities for islanders to learn about domestic violence in a casual way. This island tour is part of the Finding Our Voices 15-stop 2024 “Let’s Talk About It” tour, where domestic abuse survivors break the silence of domestic abuse one community and conversation at a time across the state. 

Finding Our Voices Founder and CEO Patrisha McLean shares, “I can’t thank Maine Seacoast Mission enough for prioritizing domestic abuse as a health issue on Maine islands, for allowing us to connect with the residents through their beloved and trusted organization, and for putting together such a thoughtful program.” McLean is an author and photographer of the 2015 book My Island, which celebrates the children of three Maine island communities of Islesboro, North Haven, and Vinalhaven. 

Finding Our Voices operates a bold, survivor-powered domestic abuse awareness campaign across Maine that has led to the distribution of posters featuring the photo portraits of 45 Maine survivors to be featured prominently in 90 towns. In addition, the nonprofit offers extensive peer and community support including free, online survivor-run weekly support groups, access to free dental care, and healing experiences. Finding Our Voices also advocates for protective laws and operates the Get Out, Stay Out Fund, which assists women fleeing domestic violence and stabilizing their own, and their families’, lives. In the first four months of 2024, Finding Our Voices disbursed $44,000 to 100 women. 

Director of Island Services Douglas Cornman, MA BC-DMT, says, “Domestic abuse is aggressively hidden on our islands. These are small communities where everyone knows everyone else’s business, even when you do your best to hide it. By raising awareness and providing avenues for conversation and discussion, communities become more deeply connected and improve mental health in addition to reducing stress, fear, and isolation. The Mission is thankful to Patrisha and Mary for joining us. I hope their presence on the Sunbeam and on our islands might encourage a victim of abuse to find their voice and step forward for support.”

 Finding Our Voices marshals survivor voices, and community creativity and compassion to finally move the needle on domestic violence in Maine, and bring safety, justice, freedom, and comfort to Maine women and children. To learn more, please visit https://findingourvoices.net/

 Rooted in a history of compassionate service and mutual trust, Maine Seacoast Mission seeks to strengthen coastal and island communities by educating youth, supporting families, and promoting good health. For more information, please visit https://seacoastmission.org/

Sunbeam leaving its home port, Northeast Harbor

LEWISTON AUBURN, ME – The Lewiston Auburn Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce the return of the highly anticipated Business to Business (B2B) Trade Show in partnership with Dow Media. This collaboration marks a significant milestone as the Chamber takes the reins of the event, ensuring a smooth transition and continued success for one of the region’s most esteemed business gatherings.

The B2B Trade Show has been a cornerstone event in the Lewiston Auburn region for decades, fostering valuable connections and business growth opportunities. Eight years ago, the event was handed over to Dow Media, resulting in a period of transition. Last year, the Chamber began collaborating with Dow Media to bring the show back under its umbrella, aiming to leverage the strengths of both organizations for an even more impactful event.

“We are thrilled to partner with Dow Media to bring the B2B Trade Show back to the Chamber,” said Shanna Cox, President + CEO of the LA Metro Chamber of Commerce. “This event has always been about connecting businesses, fostering innovation, and driving economic growth in our region. With Dow Media’s support, we are confident that the 2025 B2B Trade Show will be our best yet.”

The next B2B Trade Show is scheduled for Thursday, March 27th, 2025 at the Norway Savings Bank Arena in Auburn, Maine. Attendees can look forward to a dynamic lineup of exhibitors, networking opportunities, and insights from industry leaders. This event is designed to help businesses of all sizes expand their reach, forge new partnerships, and gain valuable market insights.

“We are honored to continue our involvement with the B2B Trade Show and support the Chamber in this transition,” said Travis Dow, founder of Dow Media. “Our combined efforts will ensure that the event remains a premier platform for business development in Maine.”

Mark your calendars and save the date for the 2025 B2B Trade Show. Additional details, including registration information and exhibitor opportunities, will be announced in the coming months, and will be directly communicated to those who pre-register. Stay tuned for updates and prepare to be part of an event that celebrates and elevates the business community in Androscoggin County.

For more information, please visit the event site or contact Katie Palmer, Director of Events at Katie@LAMetroChamber.com