LEWISTON, ME — On July 19, family, friends, parishioners, and Maine military members convened at the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church in Lewiston to honor the memory of Pvt. John Yianitsas, who was killed in action in Belgium during the Battle of the Bulge in January 1945.

Pvt. Yianitsas, originally from Massachusetts, was posthumously awarded the Purple Heart for paying the ultimate sacrifice while assigned to the 327th Infantry Regiment of the famed 101st Airborne Division “Screaming Eagles.” The Purple Heart, the United States Armed Forces’ oldest decoration, is awarded to those wounded or killed in action while serving their country.

Yianitsas’ body was sadly never recovered after the battle, but a headstone stands in his honor at the Henri-Chappelle American Cemetery in Plobmbières, Belgium. At the time of his passing, Yianitsas’ family struggled with grief and never held a formal funeral or ceremony to celebrate his life.

William Kell, of Lewiston, is Pvt. Yianitsas’ uncle and next remaining kin. In July 2023, Kell’s daughter, Dr. Tina Kell, reached out to Melissa Landry, a constituent services representative for Senator Susan Collins, to assist in acquiring service records and medals for Pvt. Yianitsas. Landry worked with the National Personnel Records Center to validate Yianitsas’ records and confirmed that Yianitsas should be awarded the Purple Heart and the World War II Victory Medal.

Landry then reached out to the Maine Army National Guard to help give the Kells a ceremony deserving of their uncle’s sacrifice. The Guard performed military funeral honors and presented the Kell family with a United States flag that, through Senator Collins’ office, was flown over the US Capitol in Yianitsas’ honor.

Brigadier General Diane Dunn, The Adjutant General of the Maine National Guard, and Command Sergeant Major Alexander Clifford presented the Kell family with Pvt. Yianitsas’ Purple Heart, World War Two Victory Medal, and the Honorable Service Lapel Button WWII.

“We are extraordinarily honored to be a part of recognizing Pvt. Yianitsas’ sacrifice for our country,” said Dunn. “He paid the highest price a nation can ask, and we are proud to finally give his family the closure and recognition they deserve.”

Senator Collins also offered her gratitude through a personal letter written to the Kell family.

“Awarding Pvt. John Yianitsas with the Purple Heart and World War II Victory Medal is a long-overdue acknowledgment of his bravery and valor, and it has been an honor to assist the Kell family with this tribute,” said Senator Collins. “While we can never fully repay the debt we owe John and his fellow service members, we can preserve their legacies by ensuring that their achievements and sacrifices are never forgotten.”

Pvt. John Yianitsas

LEWISTON, ME — SeniorsPlus is accepting applications for the Meals on Wheels program serving older adults and individuals with disabilities in Androscoggin, Franklin, and Oxford Counties.

Meals on Wheels at SeniorsPlus has the capacity to serve more individuals in its tri-county service area. Meals on Wheels is a need-based rather than a financially-based program. Individuals are encouraged to contact SeniorsPlus to find out if they are eligible.

The provision of nutritious meals can keep people living independently at home, avoiding costly long-term care facilities. Every visit provides a meal that offers one-third of the recommended daily nutritional intake and can be tailored to specific health conditions. The program also serves as a safety check and social interaction. Meals on Wheels is more than just a meal; It’s a lifeline for independence and well-being.

“We are honored to deliver nutritious meals to the homes of aging adults and individuals with disabilities,” said Janis Walker, Nutrition Services Director. “Our program addresses nutrition, provides essential human connections, and enriches the lives of all clients, their families, and the entire community.”

To learn more, to refer an older adult or an individual with disabilities who could benefit from Meals on Wheels, or to volunteer, visit seniorsplus.org or call 207-795-4010.

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 (ie 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. SeniorsPlus offers a network of support, including information and assistance, short-term care management, Medicare counseling, caregiver support and respite, health and wellness education, benefits counseling, and Meals on Wheels and social dining.

AUBURN, ME — The L/A Community Little Theatre’s production of The Prom opens Friday, August 9 at 7:30 p.m. Winner of the Drama Desk Award for Best Musical, The Prom expertly captures all the humor and heart of a classic musical comedy with a message that resonates with audiences now more than ever.

“This show has a great mix of music, from big splashy dance numbers to power ballads that may make folks choke up,” says director Jennifer Groover. Audiences can expect to see a lighthearted story full of humor. It’s the kind of show where Broadway takes a poke at itself, and theater lovers will enjoy watching some larger-than-life characters and their funny antics,” Groover adds.

The story centers around four eccentric Broadway stars who are in desperate need of a new stage. When they hear that trouble is brewing around a small-town prom, they know that it’s time to put a spotlight on an important issue. The town’s parents want to keep the high school dance on the straight and narrow—but when one student just wants to bring her girlfriend to prom, the entire town has a date with destiny. On a mission to transform lives, Broadway’s brassiest join forces with a courageous girl and the town’s citizens and the result is love that brings them all together.

Groover and her crew have been hard at work for weeks with their large cast of 35 actors. “Working with this talented and experienced cast has been a joy! I am excited for audiences to hear the blending of voices. When the large ensemble sings together, it’s powerful,” notes Groover. Assisting the director are crew members Myranda Michaud, assistant director; Paul G. Caron, music director; Adelyn Bell, choreographer; Brian Pfohl, stage manager; and Sophia Wood, producer.

“This show is one way our theatre can help destigmatize and support everyone because this show is about inclusion, acceptance, and belonging. It is also filled with laughter, song, and dance, so it will leave the audience feeling uplifted and hopeful,” adds Groover.

The Prom will be performed at 7:30 p.m. on August 9, 10, 15, 16, and at 2:00 p.m. on August 11, 17, and 18.  All performances will be held at CLT on 30 Academy Street in Auburn. Tickets are now available online at www.laclt.com/box-office or by calling 783-0958. Ticket prices (including all fees) are $25.00 for adults, $22.00 for seniors and students, and $17.00 for children ages 13 and under.

Cast members Isana Bell, Tessa Hayashida, Maddy Vaillancourt, Maddi DuBois, and Julie Sanborn enjoy a laugh during a rehearsal for the upcoming production of The Prom, which opens this weekend at Community Little Theatre.

 LEWISTON, ME – The Lewiston Auburn Balloon Festival Presented by Emerson Toyota proudly announces a stellar musical lineup featuring performances on the Main Stage sponsored by Platz Associates at Simard-Payne Park sponsored by Platz Associates at Simard-Payne Park, 83 Beech Street. The festival showcases a variety of artists, ensuring a memorable good time for all! Mark your calendar for American Idol alum Julia Gagnon and Motor Booty Affair to perform at this year’s festival.

Friday, August 16

4:30 PM – Rumor Has It : are all about having fun, engaging the crowd and playing music that everyone enjoys.  They play a wide variety of music traversing decades and multiple genres!

6:45 PM – Girls of L/A: bring together the talented voices of Bette Sanborne, Bonnie Edwards, Debbie Morin, Jeannie Martin, Kathy Haley, and Laurie Sidelinger. These local legends will perform an array of covers guaranteed to get everyone dancing.

8 PM – Taylor Hughes: a New Hampshire homegrown country singer. He started singing when he was very young.  His musical drive is to bring storytelling and traditional country music.  He’s performed all around New England and has sold out performances at the Bank of New Hampshire stage.

Saturday, August 17

4:30 PM – Bazinga: They will energize the crowd with a dynamic mix of 90s hits to now hits, from alt-rock anthems to smooth R&B grooves contemporary favorites.  Get ready to enjoy the sounds and put your dancing shoes on!

6:30 PM – Denny Breau: legendary guitarist and singer/songwriter Denny Breau will mesmerize the audience with his flawless rhythm and stunning six-string guitar work, blending folk, Delta blues, country, and jazz effortlessly.

7:30 PM Motor Booty Affair: Wrapping up Saturday night, Motor Booty Affair will host the ultimate disco party, playing infectious, danceable hits from Earth Wind & Fire, The Bee-Gees, KC and the Sunshine Band, and more.

Sunday, August 18

11:00 AM – Camp of Rock: Start your Sunday with the youthful energy of Camp of Rock. These talented summer camp students will perform rock classics from Heart, The Kings, The Black Crowes, and Led Zeppelin.

12:30 PM – Crosshair: a young four-piece high energy 90’s alternative, hard rock and metal. The band has played several successful shows and was recently featured in the Summer Edition of L/A Metro Magazine.

2:00 PM – Julia Gagnon: When a singer causes all three American Idol judges to give you a standing ovation, you know you have to come hear Maine’s Julia Gagnon. Gagnon will take the stage at the festival and we hope to hear her powerful rendition of Whitney Houston’s “I Run To You,” Her performance is a must-see highlight of the festival.

4:30 PM – Jody Boys: a fun party band who cover great hits from the 70’s, 80’s and 90’s with a few surprises from all over. If you’re looking to enjoy some good diverse music this band likes to rock!

The Lewiston Auburn Balloon Festival promises a weekend of outstanding live music, family fun, and vibrant community spirit set under the backdrop of fantastic hot air balloons! Don’t miss out on this free event featuring remarkable local talents and renowned performers. Mark your calendars and join us at Simard-Payne Park for a festival experience like no other! The concerts are free.

For more information about all events and activities at the L/A Balloon Festival, visit www.laballoonfest.org.

LEWISTON, ME — LA Arts is pleased to present its next gallery exhibit featuring the work of Lewiston artist Robert J. Russell. The show, entitled “Eclectic Thoughts,” runs from July 26 – September 7, 2024. An opening reception for the artist will be held on Friday, July 26 from 5:00pm – 8:00pm at LA Arts, 168 Lisbon Street, Lewiston, ME as part of the organization’s July Art Walk.

About the Work

“Eclectic Thoughts” showcases Russell’s original drawings, paintings, and collages and offers a glimpse into the mind of a creative visionary artist. His work, mostly rendered with Sharpie pens, includes many themes, from mandalas and “tower-temples” to mazes and geometric designs. Intricate and complicated, Russell uses bold abstract shapes and repetitive patterns to create mesmerizing pieces that demand the viewers’ time and attention.

About the Artist

A longtime Lewiston resident, Robert Russell has been creating art since he was a young child growing up in Lisbon Falls, ME. After graduating from high school in the late sixties, he pursued his interest in art by attending the Portland School of Fine and Applied Art (which is now the Maine College of Art & Design), Bates College in Lewiston, Bowdoin College in Brunswick, and the Arts Students League in New York City.

Russell is a quiet and introspective person who finds inspiration from many sources, but mainly from the pictures he sees in his head. He is also an extremely prolific artist, with a staggering personal collection of over 5000 signed and dated original pieces. Books, magazines, movies, and pop culture have fueled his work from the beginning and these elements continue to influence his art today. Russell observes the everyday world around him with an artist’s eye; even a contemplative walk examining the imperfect sidewalks in his Downtown Lewiston neighborhood can provide a flood of creative ideas.

At 73 years old, Russell has mastered his creative process as a way of being, starting and ending each day with a sketchbook in hand, ready to translate his ideas into bold and beautiful images.

Robert Russell, photo taken by Sheri Hollenbeck

AUBURN, ME — Cast members of the Community Little Theatre’s upcoming production of The Prom are pictured here at a recent rehearsal. From left are Anthony M. Delorme, Gregory Judd, Jordan Clatchey, Connor Davis, Brock Rancourt, and Tessa Hayashida. An award-winning musical, the show follows four Broadway performers who are in search of a new stage. When they hear that trouble is brewing around a small-town prom, they know that it’s time to put a spotlight on the issue. The town’s parents want to keep the high school dance on the straight and narrow—but when one student just wants to bring her girlfriend to prom, the entire town has a date with destiny!

The Prom will be performed at 7:30 p.m. on August 9, 10, 15, 16, and at 2:00 p.m. on August 11, 17, and 18.  All performances will be held at the CLT on 30 Academy Street in Auburn. Tickets are now available online at www.laclt.com/box-office or by calling 783-0958. Ticket prices (including all fees) are $25.00 for adults, $22.00 for seniors and students, and $17.00 for children ages 13 and under. (Photo by Sophia Wood).

 LEWISTON, ME — Central Maine Healthcare (CMH), which includes Central Maine Medical Center (CMMC), Rumford Hospital, Bridgton Hospital and medical practices throughout central Maine, has been designated a Recovery Friendly Workplace (RFW) by the state of Maine.

The Recovery Friendly Workplace program strives to prevent substance use disorder by providing support for workers who are struggling with addiction and facilitating opportunities for people in recovery to reenter or enter the workplace.

 CMH’s designation as a Recover Friendly Workplace was made official at Governor Janet Mills’ Opioid Response Summit and Seminars which was held at Central Maine Community College on July 25.

 “People who have experienced addiction and have moved into a recovery process often have gained valuable life experience and developed certain disciplines, skills and compassion, said Rick Redmond, director of Behavioral Health, Central Maine Healthcare. “Promoting a Recovery Friendly Workplace means creating an environment where people in recovery can continue to flourish while they add strength to our teams and provide an empathetic approach with our patients.”

 Providing a safe, supportive environment for team members is part of Central Maine Healthcare’s values and service standards.

 The Maine Recovery Friendly Workplace Initiative is a combined effort among the governor’s office, business leaders, local government and recovery community organizations (RCOs).

AUBURN, ME – On Tuesday, August 6, the Auburn Police Department will take over Festival Plaza and Main Street for the city’s 20th annual National Night Out against crime. The event – which begins at 5:30pm and goes until dusk – will be an evening of family fun, live music, and tasty food for all Auburn residents to enjoy.

This is the 20th year that Auburn PD has hosted National Night Out, a FREE, anti-crime, public safety event. Police department staff and community partners will serve up hotdogs, beverages, popcorn, and plenty of family-friendly activities! There will be police, fire, and public works equipment on display, and many local community partners and non-profits will be on hand. There will be plenty of games and activities for kids, including an inflatable obstacle course, bounce house, face painting, balloons from the folks at Hammond Lumber, free iced coffee provided by Starbucks of Auburn (Starbucks is a national sponsor of NNO), and more.

Attendees will have the opportunity to meet Auburn PD K-9 “Brick,” connect with comfort dogs from Mission Working Dogs, and shoot hoops with local basketball legend (and international professional basketball star) Troy Barnies. The APD will also set up an impaired driving obstacle course to help encourage motorists to drive sober. There will be live music from local blues band, “Continental Shakedown.”

“For 20 years, National Night Out has been a chance for our team to show our strong commitment to community partnerships,” said Police Chief Jason Moen. “My officers and I really love this opportunity to connect with residents and share a fun evening together, all in the name of public safety.”

“We really enjoy getting everyone together each year to show the unbreakable police-community partnership we have here in Auburn,” said Deputy Chief Timothy Cougle. “When we connect like this, our city is stronger and safer. Having the support of our community partners makes this the best block party of the year.”

National Night Out, America’s annual “night out against crime,” is a unique crime/drug prevention event presented by the National Association of Town Watch. NNO is a national community-building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships. Each year, millions of neighbors take part in National Night Out across thousands of communities from all fifty states, U.S. territories and military bases worldwide on the first Tuesday in August.

AUBURN, ME — The Great Falls Model Railroad Club has a couple events coming up:

The Club is hosting a Surplus Assets Sale fundraiser on Saturday, July 27th from 9 am to 10 am at the clubhouse at 144 Mill Street in Auburn. The club will have a variety of materials for sale including model railroad equipment in a G, O, HO, and N scales, railroad books, scenery supplies, buildings, and more. All of our layouts, G, O, N, and HO scales, will be open for viewing. Cash and credit cards are accepted. The building is wheelchair accessible. The sale is open to members of the club starting at 8 am.

The Great Falls Model Railroad Club’s annual open house event during the Lewiston Auburn Balloon Festival  will be held at 144 Mill Street in Auburn from 9 AM to 5 PM on Saturday and Sunday, August 17th and 18th. Model trains in various scales, built by model train enthusiasts, will be operating all day.

Activities for kids, including running trains as a Junior Engineer, will be going on all day. Club members will be available to answer questions about our layouts and to sell new and used model railroad items, books, and other train related memorabilia.

The Public Theatre in Lewiston will present “JULIA: Here in Maine” on Saturday, September 7, at 7pm.

“JULIA” is Maine’s very own Julia Gagnon, accompanied by Nate Haven on acoustic guitar.

Gagnon rose to fame on American Idol: Season 22, by making it to the top seven finalists.  Following an amazing performance which earned her a “platinum ticket,” the judges proclaimed her “one of the biggest voices of the season.”  Julia grew up in Cumberland and currently lives in Yarmouth with her fiancé Nate Haven.

Julia has recently appeared in theaters, concert halls, and outdoor festivals all over the State of Maine.  The Public Theatre is excited to offer audiences an opportunity to see her indoors in an intimate setting.  With just over 300 seats, every seat is the best seat in the house.

Proceeds from this special concert event provide vital support for The Public’s full season of plays and educational programming.

JULIA: Here in Maine – Saturday, September 7 at 7:00 pm

For tickets, call 207-782-3200 or visit ThePublicTheatre.org

Photo courtesy of Julia Gagnon at New York City’s famed Feinstein’s/54 Below