An interview with Mike Nicholson, Books-A-Million District Manager of New England By Millie Barnard

Book lovers in the Lewiston-Auburn area have something new to celebrate: Books-A-Million has officially opened the doors of its brand-new Auburn location, moving out of the Auburn Mall and into a larger, standalone space that promises double the selection and plenty of community-centered programming.

“This is a great opportunity for us to expand,” said Mike Nicholson, District Manager for Books-A-Million in New England. “This new location is approximately double the size of our old store, which means we can offer a much broader selection of books, toys, games, and gifts that our customers love. We’re really excited to be able to better serve the community.”

The grand opening kicked off Friday with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 11 a.m., followed by a weekend full of author signings and events. The move to a larger space also allowed the store to build out one of its most exciting new features: an expanded local interest section.

“With the new space, we’ve been able to more than double our local interest area,” Nicholson shared. “That means more books about Maine and more opportunities to support local authors. My team has done a phenomenal job curating selections that Mainers are going to love.”

That focus on community extends beyond bookshelves. Books-A-Million plans to host a local author every weekend, creating a steady calendar of events to connect readers with the writers in their backyard. “Our goal is to have a local author here every single weekend,” Nicholson said. “We believe strongly in supporting local creators, and this new store gives us the space to do that.”

The opening weekend featured a signing by Paul Doiron, the best-selling author of the Mike Bowditch mystery series, along with appearances from six other Maine authors. Future events include midnight releases for major titles—starting in September with the anticipated novel Alchemized by SenLinYu—and themed celebrations such as a “Percy Jackson birthday” party celebration later this summer.

Beyond author events, Books-A-Million also partners with schools and organizations through its book fair program, which helps local groups raise funds while encouraging reading. “It’s one of our favorite things to do,” Nicholson said. “We bring the books to the schools or organizations, host a sale on-site, and then give a portion of the proceeds back to them. It’s a great way to support local needs.”

The Auburn store is led by General Manager Johnny Yim and a team of experienced booksellers who together boast nearly 70 years of bookselling expertise. “It’s a pretty great group,” Nicholson said. “John and his team are ready to exceed expectations and give the Lewiston-Auburn area the bookstore it deserves.”

In an age where online shopping and audiobooks dominate, Nicholson says the in-store experience is thriving—thanks in part to social media trends like “BookTok” that are driving readers back to physical books. “There’s been a huge wave of enthusiasm for reading over the past few years,” he said. “We’re able to meet that demand by offering what customers actually want—whether it’s a new BookTok favorite, a special edition release, or a curated selection of Maine titles.”

Ultimately, Nicholson says the goal is simple: to build “world-class bookstores” for the communities Books-A-Million serves. “We just want to be the best bookstore we can be for the Lewiston-Auburn area,” he said. “We’re grateful for the incredible response so far, and we can’t wait to keep growing with this community.”

Books-A-Million is now located at 730 Center Street, Ste 3c, Auburn. They are open 9am – 8pm and Sundays 10am to 7pm. Call 207-786-9412 or visit their website at www.booksamillion.com/.

Pictured left to right: Glen Holmes, City of Auburn Business and Community Development Director; Denis D’Auteil,  Assistant City Manager; Stephanie Doucette, Books-A-Million Assistant Store Manager; Adanica Keene, Books-A-MillionStore Key Holder/Manager; Jay Brenchick, City of Auburn Economic Development Director; Mayor Jeffrey Harmon; Johnny Yim, Books-A-Million Store Manager; Mike Nicholson, Books-A-Million District Manager; Scott Dressed, Congressman Jared Golden’s office with Office Intern on his left; Gail Sanborn, Books-A-Million Regional Vice President; Carlene Tremblay, Senator Collins’ Office.

BRUNSWICK, ME – Two of Maine’s premier theatre companies, The Public Theatre and Maine State Music Theatre, are thrilled to announce a special co-production of the spirited musical revue The Irish…and How They Got That Way, running August 27 through September 14, 2025, at The Public Theatre in Lewiston. This unique collaboration brings together the best of both companies, celebrating the resilience, humor, and enduring spirit of the Irish people in a heartwarming production that will leave audiences clapping, laughing, and singing along.

This marks the first co-production between MSMT and The Public Theatre since their successful collaboration on Grease in 2019.

“The Public Theatre is excited to offer Maine audiences an opportunity to see our beautiful theatre in Lewiston,” says Ray Dumont, Executive Director. “Partnering with Maine State Music Theatre, as we did in 2019 with Grease, combines the expertise, resources, and commitment to excellence of both organizations to bring a production to our stage that will delight audiences with great music and great performances.  We hope that many new theatergoers will come to see what’s happening in Lewiston.”

Written by Pulitzer Prize-winning author Frank McCourt (Angela’s Ashes), this crowd-pleasing revue returns by popular demand following previous acclaimed performances. Through an evocative blend of storytelling, humor, and music, McCourt explores the rich tapestry of the Irish-American experience. Audiences will be treated to classic Irish ballads like “Danny Boy” and “The Rose of Tralee,” alongside contemporary favorites from artists like U2. This lively production offers a stirring portrait of a people shaped by history, hardship, and hope.

The Irish…and How They Got That Way boasts a star-studded cast of longtime Maine State Music Theatre favorites, including Curt Dale Clark, David Girolmo, Heidi Kettenring, and Charis Leos. The production is directed and choreographed by the award-winning Marc Robin, renowned for his dynamic work on MSMT’s most beloved productions. This same production plays to sold-out houses at The Fulton Theatre in Lancaster, PA, from February 7 through March 16, 2025. “This cast is truly the best of the best. Not only are they MSMT favorites, but they are also lifelong friends. I am so excited to reunite this incredible group for an unforgettable theatrical event,” says Curt Dale Clark, Artistic Director of Maine State Music Theatre.

PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE: • Previews: August 27 & 28 • Opening Performance: Friday, August 29 at 7 PM • Evening Performances: Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 7 PM • Matinees: Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays at 2 PM

TICKET INFORMATION: Tickets range from $45 – $60 and are available via:

Website: thepublictheatre.org

Phone: 207.782.3200

In-person: The Public Theatre Box Office, 31 Maple Street, Lewiston, ME 04240

Don’t miss this rare opportunity to experience the warmth and wit of Frank McCourt’s masterpiece The Irish…and How They Got That Way, presented by two of Maine’s most celebrated theatre companies.

Charis Leos, David Girolmo, Curt Dale Clark, Heidi Kettenring. Photo by Kevin Faraci.

WESTBROOK, ME – In celebration of its 25th Anniversary, WinterKids has launched the 25 Days of Movement Challenge – a free, statewide initiative designed to get families moving outdoors together this August. Participants receive a downloadable digital guide packed with over 100 screen-free activity ideas and can enter to win incredible prizes from Maine Outdoor Brands, including a $250 L.L. Bean gift card, a family rafting trip from Northern Outdoors, and Maine Made products from FLYN, Kit Supply + Co., Marin Skincare, and Running Peas.

“This guide is full of easy ways to get outside and have fun as a family,” says Kristel Hayes, WinterKids’ Marketing Manager, who developed the program. “Most activities require no special gear or associated cost, all are low-barrier, and the real value comes from building new habits of getting outside together every day.”

How it works:

Register free between July 21 and August 13 at winterkids.org/25-days-of-movement

Complete one outdoor activity daily between August 1 – September 7

Submit your completed tracker by September 7 for a chance to win prizes

The 25 Days of Movement Challenge is part of WinterKids’ year-long celebration of 25 years of helping Maine children develop healthy habits through outdoor play and education. It was developed in alignment with Maine’s 10-Year Outdoor Recreation Economy Road Map, and in partnership with Maine Outdoor Brands and the Maine Office of Outdoor Recreation.

To register for the 25 Days of Movement Challenge, please visit winterkids.org/25-days-of-movement.

LEWISTON, ME – Rinck Advertising has been honored with a Silver Anvil Award from the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) for Filter Out the Noise, a youth suicide prevention campaign developed with the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC). Widely regarded as the “Oscar” of the public relations industry, PRSA’s Silver Anvil Awards recognize outstanding strategic public relations programs that drive meaningful results and shape conversations on issues that matter most.                                                    

As a leader in behavior change marketing, the agency earned top honors in the “Social Media – Macro Influencer” category for its impactful work addressing youth and young adult mental health across Maine, specifically related to suicide prevention through education and provision of resources. Behavior change marketing entails using thoughtful, strategic communication to help people make choices and access resources that lead to healthier, safer, and better lives – for themselves and their communities. That’s exactly what this campaign achieved.

“Winning a Silver Anvil is such an incredible honor, and it means even more because it recognizes work that truly has the power to save lives,” said Nikki Jarvais, Senior Vice President at Rinck Advertising. “What makes the Filter Out the Noise campaign so powerful is how it uses influencer marketing to connect with young people in ways that feel real. It’s not just messaging, it’s meaningful, it’s authentic, and it creates a safe space for tough but necessary conversations. That kind of connection is what delivers critical support when it’s needed most.”

Addressing a Crisis with Innovation

Maine has long faced suicide rates significantly higher than the national average—a crisis that became even more urgent following the tragic Lewiston mass shooting in October 2023, as such incidents can have long-lasting effects on the mental health of those impacted. As the community braced for the emotional one-year anniversary of the tragedy, the Maine CDC and Rinck launched campaigns to reach youth, young adults, and adults with audience-centered, trauma-informed messaging and mental health resources, including 988 Maine.

Drawing on Rinck’s deep expertise in influencer marketing, the Filter out the Noise youth and young adult campaign partnered with trusted Maine-based macro influencers including mental health professionals, educators, and youth coaches to share content on TikTok and Instagram that would reduce the stigma of having open conversations about mental health. Their authentic stories and guidance resonated strongly with young people across the state.

“Influencers build their following by sharing genuine, authentic content,” explained Katie Greenlaw, Vice President of Public Relations and Influencer Marketing at Rinck. “Their audiences tend to pay attention and engage with their messages about a variety of topics, including products they like or what shows they are watching. To be able to capitalize on this captive audience with influencers sharing deeply personal stories including their own mental health experiences, made it even more meaningful. We are so grateful that our influencer partners were willing to share their raw stories to help make an impact on Maine youth.”

The campaign successfully drove audiences to necessary resources, proving the power of trusted voices to tackle critical public health challenges. Filter Out the Noise empowered young Mainers to seek help, talk openly about mental health, and connect with trusted adults, underscoring the vital role influencers can play in delivering essential public health messages.

Leadership in Purpose-Driven Influencer Marketing

Rinck has consistently pushed the boundaries of influencer marketing to serve meaningful causes. From driving health behavior change to advancing public safety, Rinck’s work exemplifies how influencer partnerships can transform entire communities.

“Influencers are not just trendsetters—they’re vital partners in public health,” said Greenlaw. “This award is a testament to our clients’ willingness to innovate and our team’s commitment to creating campaigns that truly make a difference.”

For more information about Rinck’s award-winning work, visit [www.rinckadvertising.com]www.rinckadvertising.com.

About PRSA and the Silver Anvil Awards

Founded in 1947, the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) is the nation’s leading professional organization serving the communications community. Its Silver Anvil Awards honor excellence in strategic public relations programs, evaluating entrants on research, planning, execution, and measurable results. Winning a Silver Anvil represents the highest standard of performance in the industry.

Read more Rinck news.

###

About Rinck Advertising: Founded in 2001, Rinck is a nationally recognized full-service marketing, advertising, and public relations agency headquartered in Maine?with remote locations across the U.S. The firm provides expertise in strategic planning, brand building, creative services, media planning and buying, digital strategy & development, public relations, influencer marketing, affiliate marketing, shopper marketing, and content marketing. Over the last decade, Rinck has built a behavioral change practice specializing in counter-marketing, social marketing, and mass-reach health communications.?Rinck represents a range of local, regional, national, and international clients in government, higher education, consumer packaged goods, restaurant service, transportation, banking, law, healthcare,?non-profits,?and tourism. Learn more about Rinck at?www.rinckadvertising.com?or check out @RinckAdvertising on?Facebook,?Instagram or LinkedIn.

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 – 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.

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.