Mayor Larry Gilbert

Twin City Mayors Kick-Off "WINTERIZE L/A" Weekend

Twin City Mayors Kicked-Off "WINTERIZE L/A" Weekend on Thursday, October 29th, 2009 at Pineland Lumber in Lewiston. Lewiston Mayor Larry Gilbert and Auburn Mayor John Jenkins provided a rousing send-off for the first round of volunteers as they go out to help their neighbors in the community. Joining the mayors were representatives from the WINTERIZE L/A partners, which included Bates College, the United Way of Androscoggin County, Community Concepts, Building Materials Exchange, Dead River Company, BIOSAFE Environmental Services and Pineland Lumber.

WINTERIZE L/A is a newly formed collaboration of area municipalities, non-profits and local businesses and volunteers hoping to winterize 100 homes in Lewiston and Auburn for the upcoming winter. Volunteers installed winterizing materials in the homes of low-income homeowners in downtown Lewiston/Auburn.

City officials will be working on more homes in November and anyone who would like to be considered for the program can call the city. They are also looking for volunteers to help with the work.

If you would like to help, call Mark McComas, 207-513-3126

Related News Link:

[Sun Journal]

[News 8 WMTW]

Mayor's Corner: A Mayor’s role is as a community facilitator and supporter

Twin City Times- Thursday, October 29th, 2009
Mayor's Corner #110

In cities such as Lewiston and Auburn where there is a strong council, weak mayor and city manager form of government, the mayor’s role takes on other forms of public service. That isn’t to say that a mayor has no means of influence because he or she does.

There is always the “bully pulpit” which in and of itself can take many forms. Certainly this Mayor’s Corner of the Twin City Times is a means of communicating and acting as a community facilitator or supporter to help people achieve their dreams, be that in the form of volunteerism, business, public service and the list goes on.

Other means of functioning as a community facilitator and supporter is through the use of other media such as cable television, attending meetings, writing letters of support.  A mayor’s role is an active one.

Ceremonial groundbreaking with shovels or ribbon cutting at grand openings occur often and are opportunities to celebrate the efforts of many, be that for a business or school opening. They generally require the delivery of a speech. Such would not be possible without the able and extraordinary assistance of the likes of a Dottie Perham-Whittier, Lewiston’s Community Relations Coordinator who writes the speeches and coordinates the activity. The mayor’s support is only made possible with such behind the scenes assistance.

There are those who are involved in teaching our young children, be that at a day care or a school. For example, Estelle Rubinstein the Executive Director of Head Start has invited mayors to come read to pre-school children and have lunch with them. The Ready Read program has been another means of being supportive by reading to children at day care centers. Then there is Ms. Andrea Bail a fourth grade teacher at Martel School who invites “mystery readers” readers to her class that includes the mayor.

4th Graders at Montello Elementary Celebrate United States Conference of Mayors "National Dollar Wi$e Week" with Mayor Gilbert

 
Students in Katrina Denis' 4th grade class at Lewiston's Montello Elementary talked with Mayor Larry Gilbert, on Tuesday, September 29th about the importance of being "Dollar Wi$e."
 
The United States Conference of Mayors National Dollar Wi$e Campaign recently declared September 26 - October 3 as Dollar Wi$e Week with a theme of "Preparing Youth for a Dollar Wi$e Future."  As such, mayors across the nation were encouraged to interact with students in local schools to emphasize the importance of instilling healthy attitudes and skills relating to wise personal financial management.
 
Denis' class was selected due to the fact that she facilitates a "classroom economy" with her students, whereby students earn credits, known as Eagle Bucks, for their weekly jobs, good deeds, etc., and are debited if they don't stack their chairs or need to buy a pencil, folder, etc.  Every other Friday is "Payday," and the students may purchase something from the classroom store with their Eagle Bucks, save what they've earned, or give some of their Eagle Bucks to an ongoing actual donation to the SPCA by Mrs. Denis.
 
During his visit, Gilbert talked with students about the choices they can make with money earned and played an interactive game with them demonstrating how to earn money, what happens if the money is spent, and what happens if it is saved.
 
Dustin Joyce, National Dollar Wi$e Campaign Manager, noted, "Our youth are at a teachable moment in their lives, and the habits they form and the decisions they make now will help determine a lifelong attitude toward personal finances.  As parents, teachers, and leaders, we are in a trusted position to teach these youth the skills they need to make wise financial decisions now and in the future."
 
Upon completion of his visit, Gilbert presented each of the students with donated Dollar Wi$e items from the United States Conference of Mayors in DC--to include backpacks and lunch bags--as well as donated  start-up Monty Moose savings account certificates, money pouch, and pencils from Community Credit Union, Lewiston.

(Photo: Mayor Gilbert with 4th grader Kaitlyn Vye)

Twin Cities' Mayors proclaiming October as Arts & Humanities Month here in Lewiston-Auburn

Arts and culture enthusiasts joined on Wednesday, September 30th at the community's newest theatrical venue, "Downstage," as an October Arts & Humanities Month proclamation by the Twin Cities Mayors Larry Gilbert, and John Jenkins was shared with attendees.  Nationally, individuals, organizations, and other municipalities are also touting their arts and cultural venues for the month of October, as well as the countless individuals who advocate in that regard.

 Local musician Lindsey Montana kicked off the celebration, and Lewiston Youth Advisory Council member Mackenzi Masselli performed "Somewhere Over the Rainbow."  LA Arts Director Andrew Harris  highlighted the many happenings throughout the month of October, and those present also viewed a photography exhibit from the local Boys & Girls Club.

Gilbert noted, "Here in Lewiston-Auburn, we indeed have much to be proud of ranging from the Bates Dance Festival to teen mic at the Auburn Public Library.  We are truly fortunate to witness the creativity, imagination, and passion of others.  They inspire us with their calling, their gifts, and their talents to tell a story, make us think, make us laugh, and make us love even deeper."

Auburn City Manager Glenn Aho read the joint proclamation on behalf of the Twin Cities Mayors noting, "The non-profit arts industry also strengthens our economy by generating $166.2 billion in total economic activity annually and by supporting the full-time equivalent of 5.7 million jobs."

For information as to the numerous arts and cultural activities that are happening in LA during the month of October and thereafter, individuals may visit http://www.laarts.org/arts-calendar/year.htm

Photo: (left to right):  Mayor Laurent F. Gilbert, Sr., local musician Lindsey Montana, Lewiston Youth Advisory Council member Mackenzi Masselli, LA Arts Director Andrew Harris, and Auburn's City Manager Glenn Aho.

Mayor Gilbert Celebrates National Arts & Humanities Month at L/A Arts Event

The mood will be upbeat and lively at LA Arts' "Downstage" on September 30th, as local arts and culture enthusiasts will celebrate October as National Arts & Humanities Month at 9:00AM  "Downstage," the newest local venue, is located in the Canal Street Alley, Lewiston.
 
However, during October, local enthusiasts won't be alone.  Hundreds of arts organizations and cities across the nation are also celebrating the monthly designation and recognizing activities that honor the efforts of artists, historians, cultural groups, and cultural patrons working to keep the arts and humanities a vital part of communities.
 
Members of the public are encouraged to attend the September 30th FREE local event, with parking available at the Centreville Parking Garage.
 
Mayor Larry Gilbert, who will speak & read a Twin Cities proclamation at the gathering, states, "National Arts & Humanities Month brings cultural arts to the forefront in cities across the nation, and celebrations like the one scheduled for September 30th recognize the benefits of the arts in people's lives, in our communities, and in the economy."
 
During the celebration, music will be provided by a local youth, and a photography exhibit by the Boys & Girls Club will be on display.  In addition to Gilbert, LA Arts Director Andrew Harris will also share comments to include highlights from October's local offerings. 
 
Harris adds, "The September celebration really sets the tone for a vast array of arts and culture that will be right here in our community during the month of October.  The Lewiston-Auburn area is indeed rich in such activities, and this is another great opportunity to further move the community forward."
 
The local October arts & cultural scene includes:  River Ways Community art exhibit, pianist Duncan Cumming, violinist Hilary Cumming, Bates College Modern Dance Company, "The Full Monty" at L/A Community Little Theater, Cancer Surviv-Art exhibit, The Dempsey Challenge, Celtic Tuesday with David Munnelly, Frank Glazer piano concert, "The Photograph" film series, Musicians of Vuyani Dance Theater, Dafnis Prieto Si o Si Quartet jazz workshop, etc.
 
"The list goes on," continues Harris, "We are so fortunate to have so many diverse offerings here in L/A, and I hope more and more folks will come out to enjoy what's happening."
 
The month-long national celebration grew out of National Arts Week, which was initiated 24 years ago in 1985, by The National Endowment of the Arts and Americans for the Arts. 
 
To view a full local "Arts & Cultural Calendar," individuals may visit http://www.laarts.org/arts-calendar/year.htm

Mayor Gilbert Takes Part In 'Kid's Day America/International'

On Saturday, September 19, Mayor Gilbert took part in festivities surrounding the 6th Annual Kid’s Day America/International.

The event was held at Montello Elementary School in Lewiston. Kid’s Day America/International is dedicated to children’s health, safety, and environmental awareness.

The even locally has been sponsored by Sasseville Chiropractic Wellness Center.

Mayor Gilbert presented a proclamation to Dr. Chandra Sasseville and her staff on behalf of the City of Lewiston to recognize the hard work and dedication Dr. Sasseville and her staff have given to Kid’s Day America/International over the years.

Last years event involved over 400 kids (with their families), served 675 meals, and raised $2,150 for their charity; New Beginnings, in hopes to spotlight their involvement with children in crisis.

Due to the rising rates of obesity and health issues, Dr. Sasseville and her staff have provided spinal, foot, dental, and eye screenings, as well as five minute massages.

(Photo above, Mayor Gilbert with Dr. Chandra Sasseville)

Mayor Gilbert Gives Keynote Address At Dedication of the New Raymond A. Geiger Elementary School

Mayor Larry Gilbert gave the keynote address at the dedication ceremony of the new Raymond A. Geiger Elementary School on College Street in Lewiston on Wednesday, September 16.

In his address Mayor Gilbert told the crowd,

"Geiger Elementary is a welcome addition to the Lewiston School System. From pre-kindergarten to the innovative outdoor learning center, it is clear that attendance here is an adventure in learning where young minds can imagine, dream, and thrive. As Mayor, I am very thankful to all who enabled this facility to become a reality. The completion of this project has resulted in a new shining star to be extremely proud of, and I am confident that the words of Dr. Seuss will be a sentiment experienced everyday here at Geiger, "Today was good. Today was fun. Tomorrow is another one.""

The new school was named in honor of Raymond A. Geiger a sixth-decade editor of the Farmers' Almanac (a family owned company in Lewiston.) Several family members where in attendance at the dedication including his wife Ann. Two of his sons spoke about the company and life of Mr. Geiger.

In the photo Assistant Principal Deanna Nadeau, chats with Mayor Larry Gilbert at the dedication of the Raymond A. Geiger Elementary School.

Mayor Gilbert Reads Proclamation Recognizing National Assisted Living Week

Mayor Larry Gilbert read a proclamation of the City of Lewiston in recognition of National Assisted Living Week on Friday, September 18th. The theme of the week was, “Traditions of the Heart.”

The Proclamation read,

WHEREAS:  Assisted living is long-term care that provides a positive environment fostering choice, dignity, and independence; and

WHEREAS:   The National Center for Assisted Living proudly created National Assisted Living Week as a time to celebrate residents and the places they call “home;” and 

WHEREAS:  “Traditions of the Heart” is a very fitting theme for the 2009 National Assisted Living Week, as residents are very dear to the hearts of those who know them and are valuable members of our community; and

WHEREAS:  The composite of history, stories of long ago, experiences, and the knowledge of those who reside in our local facilities is vast, and we are fortunate to be able to spend time with them and to learn from them; and

WHEREAS:  The theme also highlights the fact that staff, volunteers, family, and friends strive to provide residents with a multitude of events and activities that demonstrate how much they are cared about; and

WHEREAS:  We are also fortunate to have dedicated staff members and volunteers at our local facilities who are committed to enriching the lives of others.

WHEREAS:  Now, therefore, I, Mayor Laurent F. Gilbert, Sr., Mayor of the All-America City of Lewiston, by virtue of the authority vested in me, do hereby urge fellow community members to regularly visit friends and loved ones who reside in assisted living facilities and also to learn more about facility services and how they benefit our community.

Mayor's Corner: An introduction to the Maine Military & Community Network

Twin City Times- Thursday, August 27th, 2009
Mayor's Corner #101

Nancy Dubord, a Lewiston resident, called me at my office at city hall one day and said she had attended a conference introducing the Maine Military and Community Network organization in support of our military personnel who are serving or have served in combat zones as well as their families. As it turned out, she was the only one from Lewiston to attend this gathering in Augusta.

She asked me if I would attend a regional meeting entitled “From the warfront to the home front” at St. Mary’s Hospital to represent city government on July 15, 2009. I obliged her and attended. At the meeting there were several service providers from non-governmental organizations, military and veteran services representatives, clergy, etc.

The mission of the Maine Military and Community Network (MMCN) was shared with us and reads as follows: “Our mission is to develop and maintain a multi group network between community, military, government, and private sectors that creates awareness of challenges and resources and provides services to all service members and their families throughout the deployment cycle.”

Maine Army National Guard Chaplain (Lieutenant Colonel) Andrew L. Gibson explained that members of the Maine National Guard and Family Programs, Chaplains of the Military groups, the VA, Vet Center, Maine Bureau of Veterans Services, Maine Department of Health and Human Services and many others have joined forces to help returning troops and their families make smoother transitions from the war zone back to the home front. War and the experiences of our returning troops impact aspects of the entire community.

The Network is committed to ensuring that members of our communities have a greater awareness of the issues that vets and their families face following deployment. While many local and state resources are available to help specifically with the readjustment to civilian life, the network intends to improve awareness of these services for all community service providers and to provide appropriate training and support.

Mayor Gilbert Extends Farewell to Highly Praised Pediatrician Dr. Emault Louis

Mayor Larry Gilbert, was recently approached by resident Abdihakim Abdi who readily praised the services of pediatrician Dr. Emault Louis of Pediatric Associates, Lewiston. 

Abdi then asked if the Mayor could recognize her before she relocates to practice medicine in Massachusetts.  Hearing of Dr. Louis' "professional, kind, and compassionate" nature, Mayor Gilbert agreed to do just that.  On Friday, August 21, 2009 which was Louis' last day with Pediatric Associates, Gilbert joined numerous employees at a farewell celebration & thanked the doctor for her contributions to this community.

Gilbert presented her with a proclamation officially recognizing her service and noted, "She is a physician who has gained the respect and admiration of families throughout the       community--so much so that today's moment of appreciation was initiated by individuals who have come to hold her in high esteem."  During the celebration, the arrival of Abdi and others whom she previously served resulted in an appreciative and emotional Louis.

Dr. Louis studied to be a Doctor of Medicine at State University School of Medicine and of Pharmacy in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, and upon completion began her medical career as a staff physician at the Hospital Beraca in Port-de-Paix, Haiti.  To further her medical career, in 2000, she moved to the United States where she resided in Boston employed as a Medical Research Assistant at Boston Medical Center while undertaking the task of obtaining a medical license in the United States.  After completing required testing for all foreign medical graduates, Louis moved to Paterson, New Jersey, to finish residency training in pediatrics at St. Joseph's Children's Hospital.  Her next stop was the All-America City of Lewiston, Maine. 

At the celebration, Louis graciously thanked her well wishers and said, "I will miss you all."