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 to Present Lewiston, Maine for Development at the 2009 Northeast Session of the Mayors' Institute on City Design in Boston

"Riverfront redevelopment" will be the topic of Mayor Larry Gilbert's upcoming presentation at the 2009 Northeast Session of the Mayors' Institute on City Design in Boston. 
 
Gilbert was invited to attend the Institute by George Thrush, Director of Northeastern University's School of Architecture, and will be in Boston October 7-9 for a privately funded all-expenses-paid visit with mayoral colleagues and design experts. He will join other mayors from Norwalk, Connecticut; Niagara Falls, New York; Cranston, Rhode Island; Rutland, Vermont; Nashua, New Hampshire; and Brockton, Massachusetts.
 
The Institute brings mayors together with planners, architects, landscape designers, and other national professionals who will explore opportunities in each of the mayor's cities.  The roundtable discussions that follow each mayoral presentation will offer a rare opportunity for some of the finest designers and development experts in the country to determine how quality design can improve the way a particular city looks and functions. 
 
Thrush notes, "Mayors who have participated in past Institutes have indicated they return to their communities with a better understanding of design and design process and a repertoire of new tools and ideas to tackle complex design issues and solutions."
 
Upon receiving the invitation to participate, Mayor Gilbert responded, "I am very honored to be invited to interact with and learn from both attending mayors and design experts.  It is my hope that I will come away with exciting design possibilities for consideration in the City's plan for the redevelopment of our riverfront."
 
On Friday September 25th, 2009, Mayor Gilbert, Acting City Administrator Phil Nadeau, and City staff met with Daniel Hewett and Christina Crawford from Northeastern University for a Lewiston site visit pertaining to possible redevelopment of the downtown riverfront.  The group toured the area that starts at Island Point and extends along the river, down to the Bernard Lown Peace Bridge, and extends up from the river to Canal Street from Main to Cedar.
 
The Institute is sponsored through the National Endowment for the Arts, the American Architectural Foundation, and the United States Conference of Mayors. 

Related New Link:

[Sun Journal]

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 Presents September 2009 Mayoral VIBE Award to John Berry

Central Maine Medical Center's Wellness Center was a flurry of applause and flashing cameras on Tuesday, September 22nd as volunteer John Berry was surprised with the September Mayoral VIBE Award (Volunteers Inspire By Example). 

Mayor Larry Gilbert stated:  "Thank you for volunteering your time to make sure counseling was available to Little Canada residents following a recent devastating fire.  In the midst of much emotion and grief, you took the initiative to 'reach out' on behalf of others, and due to your active compassion, area residents received supportive, professional assistance from local counselors.  In addition, you are also applauded for volunteering at the CMMC Wellness Center." 

A very humble Berry accepted the award along with a VIBE lapel pin and a donated lunch for two from City Side Grill on Park Street, Lewiston.

Nominations for future award recipients may be made online at www.ci.lewiston.me.us or via nomination forms that are located at municipal service windows.

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 Joins Barriault Family at 75th Anniversary event for Central Distributors

Mayor Larry Gilbert joined the Barriault family at Central Distributors 75th Anniversary event held at the Ramada Inn in Lewiston on Wednesday night, September 16th. The Barriault Family has run their successful distributorship as a full-service beverage wholesaler specializing in alcohol-based products since 1934.