LEWISTON, ME – Kathy Brooks of Greene was honored at the June 30 annual meeting of SeniorsPlus with the presentation of the 2025 Margaret Ross Award. Brooks was honored for more than four years of volunteerism at SeniorsPlus, including 367 hours last year alone. The award, presented annually, recognizes an individual who has made significant contributions to the agency and the larger community. SeniorsPlus is the designated Area Agency on Aging focusing on Androscoggin, Franklin and Oxford counties.

Brooks is an administrative volunteer in the agency’s Lewiston office, working three days a week answering phone calls, directing clients, and doing anything asked of her. She is also a SeniorsPlus ambassador to the town of Greene. She uses agency statistics and facts to make the case for municipal support. She has garnered support from the town through her attendance at town meetings. Beyond her work on behalf of SeniorsPlus, Brooks finds time to volunteer at the polls in her community.

“Kathy truly embodies the spirit of the Margaret Ross Award, giving of her time to not only SeniorsPlus but to her town as well,” said Betsy Sawyer-Manter, President and CEO of SeniorsPlus. “She is an incredible asset to SeniorsPlus, and we would love to clone her many times over.”

Since 1972, SeniorsPlus has been improving the lives of older adults and adults with disabilities. As the designated Area Agency on Aging for Western Maine, SeniorsPlus provides statewide services with an emphasis on Androscoggin, Franklin and Oxford counties for core services (i.e. nutrition and information and assistance) that support independent living, healthy aging, and fight isolation. The overall program goal of SeniorsPlus is to assist older people and adults with disabilities in its tri-county area to remain safely at home for as long as possible. The mission of SeniorsPlus is to enrich the lives of older people and adults with disabilities, their families and communities, and to support them to make informed choices. SeniorsPlus envisions a future where all older adults and individuals with disabilities are engaged and respected while living quality, independent lives in the communities of their choice. Annually, SeniorsPlus serves almost 8,000 individuals and fielded 101,000 phone inquiries.

Holly Zielinski, outgoing Board Chair, left, congratulates Kathy Brooks, the recipient of the 2025 Margaret Ross Award for volunteerism at SeniorsPlus, Western Maine’s designated Area Agency on Aging.

LEWISTON, ME –  The Franco Center is heating up the summer with a trio of unforgettable events for the whole community! From a family-friendly street festival to an inspiring concert and a laugh-out-loud piano showdown, there’s something for everyone this July and August.

Franco Center hosts its first-ever Summer Fest: Fête d’été in Little Canada

Saturday, July 26 | Noon–5 p.m. | Oxford Street Parking Lot

Join us for a lively, outdoor celebration featuring a bounce house, dunk tank, outdoor bar, hot dogs, hamburgers, and more. Families are encouraged to bring picnic blankets or lawn chairs and enjoy the festivities, which will take over part of Oxford Street for the day.

A highlight of the event is the Cornhole Tournament, with prizes for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners. Registration is $10 per player and payable at the event.

“This event is all about community,” said Jake Hodgkin, the Franco Center’s production manager. “We wanted to create a fun, inclusive day for all ages that celebrates the heart of Little Canada. Whether you’re tossing bags in the cornhole tournament or relaxing with a burger and music, there’s something here for everyone.”

For more info about Summer Fest, contact Jake Hodgkin at 207-514-7753.

Amy Stacey Curtis Concert: A Story of Healing Through Music

Wednesday, July 30 | 6 p.m.–7 p.m. | Franco Center

The Franco Center is honored to present Amy Stacey Curtis, the 2025 winner of Maine’s Got Talent, for a one-hour performance that transcends music. After surviving a debilitating brain injury due to untreated Lyme disease, Curtis reclaimed her voice and life through learning the ukulele. Her journey—marked by courage, creativity, and community—has touched thousands across social media.

“This concert is more than just a performance—it’s a testament to the power of music to heal and connect,” said Theresa Shanahan, executive director of the Franco Center. “Amy’s story will move you, her music will lift you, and her presence on our stage is a gift to the Lewiston community.”

Admission is by $10 donation at the door.

Dueling Pianos: A Night of Music, Comedy, and Crowd Favorites

Saturday, August 23 | Doors at 7 p.m. | Show at 8 p.m. | Franco Center Heritage Hall

Back by popular demand, the Dueling Pianos show returns to the Franco Center for a night of non-stop fun. With “in the round” seating, guests will be up close and part of the action as two talented pianists duel it out with audience-requested songs, banter, and surprises.

“This event sold out last time and people asked us to bring it back,” said Susan Spellman, box office manager at the Franco Center. “It’s fast-paced, hilarious, and one of the most entertaining nights you’ll have all summer.”

Enjoy drink specials and Happy Hour from 7–8 p.m. Full bar will be available throughout the evening.

Tickets: $25 in advance, $30 at the door. Reserve now: www.francocenter.org

 Tickets can be purchased in person when the box office is open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesdays and Wednesdays, online at www.francocenter.org, or by phone at 207-689-2000.

The Franco Center is handicap accessible through its elevator entrance on the Lincoln St. Alley side of the building. Parking is available in the mill lot on Oxford Street or the Chestnut Street parking garage. The venue is located at 46 Cedar Street in Lewiston.

Dueling Pianos duo Jim Tyrrell and Amy Thomason led an interactive music performance at the Franco Center in February. Dueling Pianos will return to the Franco Center Aug. 23 but rather than perform on stage, the duo will play their pianos center-floor among the audience. Photo credit: Franco Center staff.

AUBURN, ME – The federal budget reconciliation bill (One Big Beautiful Bill) that was signed into law on July 4 includes the biggest cuts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Medicaid in history.

The budget includes changes that increase how much the State of Maine must spend on SNAP and reduce the number of people eligible for benefits. At a time when food insecurity is rising nationwide and the cost of food, heating, and health care remains high, this legislation will worsen the crisis.

Recognizing that SNAP is the most effective tool for preventing hunger, Good Shepherd Food Bank is deeply concerned for the nearly 50,000 Mainers currently receiving SNAP who may face the loss or reduction of their benefits.

The legislation could shift approximately $60 million in annual SNAP funding previously provided by the federal government to the state, resulting in the loss of an estimated 20 million meals Mainers count on. These cuts will increase challenges for people facing hunger who are doing everything they can to get by and place even greater pressure on Good Shepherd Food Bank and the entire charitable food network in Maine.

“We know that good policies can reduce hunger and improve health, and we are grateful for Maine’s four members of Congress who stood with us in opposition to this bill,” said Heather Paquette, President, Good Shepherd Food Bank. “This legislation is a significant setback for people and communities already facing barriers to accessing the food and resources they need to live full lives. Maine’s food insecurity rate is higher than the national average and includes 20% of our children who are currently living in food insecure homes. People in Maine work hard every day to build better lives, but they need a strong foundation to succeed. Access to food and health care is that foundation.”

Individuals and families currently receiving SNAP benefits are encouraged to contact the Maine Department of Health and Human Services to ensure their contact information is up to date.

Good Shepherd Food Bank will continue to lead the way in making nutritious food available to all who need it. Together with Maine’s network of hunger-relief organizations, volunteers, and donors we will keep working to find ways to support our neighbors facing hunger who will be impacted by this bill in the coming months and years.

For information about Good Shepherd Food Bank and how you can get involved visit our website at www.feedingmaine.org.

AUBURN, ME – The Community Little Theatre (CLT) will host a staged reading of “A New Home” on Friday, August 1, at 7:30 p.m. The script will be read by veteran actors from CLT, and eight songs will be performed live. An original musical production, “A New Home” will be presented as CLT’s first production of the 2025-26 season, opening on October 30.

“A New Home” tells the rich and complex history of Lewiston. Written and composed by Paul G. Caron with a new adaptation of the original book by Michael Rosenthal, Richard Martin and Lynn Geiger, the show was first performed to sold-out audiences in 1995 for the Lewiston Bicentennial. This production brings to life the stories of Lewiston’s Indigenous, Franco-American, African, and other immigrant communities, whose contributions have shaped the city’s identity and culture. In the thirty years since the original production, major events – both good and tragic – have occurred in Lewiston and are now represented in the musical’s revival to enhance its relevance and historical significance.

Anyone interested in the show is encouraged to attend the reading which will be held at CLT on 30 Academy Street in Auburn. It is open to the public at no charge.

Auditions for “A New Home” will be held at CLT at 6:00 p.m. on Sunday, August 10 and Monday, August 11. All cast members will be chosen after auditions have been held.

Information about the show, auditions, character descriptions, and more is available online at laclt.com/a-new-home.

LEWISTON, ME – The City of Lewiston is seeking a resident volunteer to serve as a member of the Lewiston Auburn Transit Committee.  The purpose of the Committee is to establish, maintain and implement a short- and long-range bus transit development program, and to apply for, receive and administer Federal and State grants-in-aid for mass transit on behalf of the cities of Lewiston and Auburn, and to provide adequate and efficient bus mass transit for the Lewiston-Auburn area.  Meetings are held on the second Thursday of each month at 12:00pm at Auburn City Hall

Lewiston residents who are interested in applying can contact the City Clerk’s Department to complete a committee volunteer application.  Application forms are also available on the Boards and Committees page of the City’s website at www.lewistonmaine.gov. Applications can be submitted at any time and will be accepted until the position is filled; however, the requested filing deadline is 4pm on Thursday, July 24.                                                                             

Residents are welcome to contact the City Clerk’s Department at 207-513-3124 with any questions they may have regarding the committee appointment process.  Completed applications shall be submitted to the City Clerk’s Office for processing.

Office hours are Monday, Wednesday, Thursday – 7:45am – 4:00pm and Tuesday, 7:45am – 5:30pm.

LEWISTON, ME – Mill Town Sports and Entertainment has announced that it will commence a new era of management of the historic Lewiston Colisée. Mill Town is committed to revitalizing the legendary Colisée and elevating it as a premier hub for sports and entertainment in Maine. Mill Town views the Colisée as an important economic catalyst for the Lewiston community

“We couldn’t be more excited to get started,” said Nate Bostic, President of Mill Town Sports and Entertainment. “From working with current partners, to welcoming new groups, we’re here to bring energy and passion for top-tier sports events and entertainment back to the Colisée.” One of our founding principles is loyalty to our local communities. Mill Town plans to be an active presence throughout Lewiston and surrounding areas. “I’ve had the pleasure of meeting so many incredible people in the community over the past year,” said Nate, “If I haven’t met you yet, I’ll be stopping by soon. We’re dedicated to honoring the tradition of the Colisée and preserving what makes it so special to so many.”

With this new chapter, Mill Town Sports and Entertainment is committed to making the Lewiston Colisée a vibrant, inclusive destination where memories are made and legacies live on. The vision for the Colisée entails a dynamic range of programming including concerts, boxing events, community entertainment, high-end junior hockey, and a comprehensive Learn-to-Play program to foster youth participation in hockey.

Mill Town Sports and Entertainment is committed to elevating the sports and entertainment experience for everyone who enters The Colisée. Founded by Boston Hockey Academy CEO, Nate Bostic, Mill Town will prioritize fostering a welcoming atmosphere by creating a clean, organized, and inviting environment, ensuring comfort and inclusivity for all attendees.

OTISFIELD, ME – It’s that special time of year, the return of The East Otisfield Free Baptist Church annual Lobster Dinner being held on, Saturday, August 9th. The menu will include a 1 1/4 lb., lobster or ½ a grilled chicken, coleslaw, corn-on-the-cob, dinner roll, drawn butter, blueberry cake and other refreshments.

A total of 76 seats are available in 2 seatings, with the first at 4.30PM, the second seating at 6PM. Tickets should be purchased in advance from Maryanne Hill for $25.00 for the Chicken Meal or $30.00 for the Lobster Dinner. All tickets are sold on a first-come-first-serve basis.

Please call 310-8056 or email Maryanne at EOFBCdinners@yahoo.com for your reservations. All proceeds will benefit multiple church projects. The lobster Dinner will be held at the church located at 231 Rayville Road, 1 mile off Rte. 121 in Otisfield. Hope to see you there.

PORTLAND, ME – The Maine-based non-profit, Lives in the Balance, is excited to welcome the Juno award-winning folk trio The Wailin’ Jennys to Portland’s Merrill Auditorium on November 22, 2025 at 7:30 PM for a special benefit concert. Tickets can be purchased at boxoffice.porttix.com.

Lives in the Balance founder, Dr. Ross Greene, says, “The Jennys have been supportive of the work of Lives in the Balance for many years, and we are incredibly excited to welcome them back to Portland for the first time in several years. Best of all, we love their music. Their three-part harmonies are as good as it gets, they sing from the heart, and they’re wonderful human beings. A powerful combination. We’re really glad to partner with them and hope as many of our friends as possible can attend the performance.”

Proceeds from this event will support Lives in the Balance’s efforts on behalf of our most vulnerable kids and their caregivers and will help us grow our training, legal, and advocacy efforts. Lives in the Balance partners with families, educators, and policymakers to ensure that all kids are understood and treated with compassion. The organization provides resources and training to reduce or eliminate the use of harmful disciplinary practices like expulsion, restraint, and seclusion.

LEWISTON, ME – The Public Theatre in Lewiston, Maine will be holding auditions for local non-Equity actors for the roles of Buster (the sheriff) in MISERY and Fred in A CHRISTMAS CAROL.

Auditions will be held on Monday July 21, 2025 from 5pm – 8:30pm at The Public Theatre, 31 Maple Street, Lewiston.

All roles are salaried.

To schedule an audition appointment and request the sides to prepare, please call 207-782-2211.

The Public Theatre’s rehearsal schedule is generally noon – 8pm, M-F and 11-4 on Sat. Tech week hours for MISERY are (3) 10-hour days, (Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday heading into opening night on Oct 24).  There is some rehearsal schedule flexibility for the play MISERY.  There is NO flexibility for the rehearsal or performance schedule for A CHRISTMAS CAROL. Both shows will be offering morning mid-week student matinees.

We are casting the following roles:

MISERY by William Goldman based on the novel by Stephen King

Contract Dates: Oct 6 – Nov 9, 2025.  Director: Janet Mitchko

Salary $600 a week

BUSTER: (30’s 50’s — male or female, any ethnicity) Buster is a small town local sheriff investigating a report that the famous novelist Paul Sheldon may be missing somewhere in the community. Having been raised in a small town, they are very friendly, helpful and somewhat trusting. There are some physical demands (choreographed falling and being dragged) in this role.

A CHRISTMAS CAROL adapted by Christopher Schario.

CONTRACT DATES: 12/1 – 12/14/25.  Director: Christopher Schario

Salary: $600 a week

FRED/CHRISTMAS PRESENT: Male, age 20’s – 40, any ethnicity. Scrooge’s indomitably cheery nephew brimming with goodwill. He also plays the ghost of Christmas Present filled to the brim with this same joyful spirit. This adaptation features a small cast playing multiple roles. All actors perform narration of Dickens’ text, as well as scene work in both British dialect and Standard American. Requires versatile playful actors, skilled with language.

AUBURN, ME –  The City of Auburn’s newest Comprehensive Plan process is well underway. The 2026 Comprehensive Plan Committee, together with city staff and a consultant, is gathering public input through surveys, workshops, and public meetings to create a community-driven plan.

The city continues to seek meaningful input from residents and plans to host three “Comp Plan Open House” events in the weeks to come. Residents, business owners and stakeholders are invited to attend one – or all – of these Open House events.

The first Comp Plan Open House is entitled, “Fields, Forests, and Flowing Waters: A Visioning Event for Auburn’s Natural Environment.” It will be held at Lake Grove Park (2 Fair Street) on Saturday, July 19, from 10:00AM to noon.

Attendees will be encouraged to share ideas about the future of Auburn’s lakes, rivers, streams, open spaces, and land use for Auburn’s 2026 Comprehensive Plan. This openhouse style event will feature interactive activities for all ages to share your ideas, plus live music, local food, and games for children. [Rain date: Wednesday, August 6, 4:00-6:00PM, Auburn Senior Community Center, Pettengill Park]

The next Open House in the series will be “Streets, Structures, Spaces, & Future: A Visioning Event for Auburn’s Built Environment.” It will be held at the Auburn Senior Community Center (48 Pettengill Park Road) on Wednesday, July 30, from 6:00 to 8:00PM.

Attendees will be invited to shape the future of Auburn’s homes, neighborhoods, transportation, economy, and cultural landmarks. This event will be a fun and interactive listening session focused on how we live, move, and build in Auburn. Attendees will share their thoughts and ideas through hands-on activities, visioning stations, and conversations.

The final Comp Plan Open House will be “People, Public Services, and Places: A Visioning Event for Auburn’s People and City Services.” It will be held on Wednesday, July 23, from 6:00 to 8:00PM at Edward Little High School (77 Harris Street).

This interactive session will welcome input on how Auburn can best support its residents through quality facilities, efficient and helpful services, and smart investments. From schools and parks to public safety and other services, residents’ feedback will be warmly welcomed.

Auburn’s 2026 Comprehensive Plan will guide the city’s growth and development over the next decade. We encourage everyone to get involved! Help us build a community-driven plan that is accessible and easy to use; that reflects our city’s vision, values and priorities and provides a roadmap to achieve that vision.

Information on Auburn’s Comprehensive Plan process – and the many ways to get involved – can be found at tinyurl.com/plan-auburn.