100 years ago, 1917
The Dover soldiers, Co. F., who have been stationed at the old Webster grammar school in Auburn, and on patrol duty at railroad bridges, left by the lower Maine Central at 6:45 Thursday morning, bag and baggage. They will go into camp at Augusta, Camp Keyes, with other units of the Maine soldiery, awaiting further movements. Captain Norton and his “boys” have made many friends in the two cities during their stay, and their movements will be watched with almost as much interest as those of our local soldiers.
50 years ago, 1967
Medicare, a year old on June 30th, is drawing applause from Lewiston-Auburn area residents covered by the program despite the fact it is not completely understood by many of those receiving its benefits. Recently Journal newsman Lew Hillier talked with several Medicare patients at Lewiston’s two hospitals, and repeatedly heard the comment: “I think it’s a wonderful thing, but I don’t really know too much about it.” Hospital officials agree that this is one of the biggest problems — those eligible for benefits just don’t understand what those benefits, and what the limitations, are. A popular misconception is that Medicare will pay 100 percent of the cost of medical treatment, including the cost of 100 days of extended care.
25 years ago, 1992
The Auburn City Council Monday night made the closure of a portion of Spring Road official with a unanimous vote following about an hour’s worth of public comment. The Auburn Water District had requested the closure as one requirement spelled out in obtaining an exemption from water filtration that could cost ratepayers in Lewiston and Auburn $20 million or more if not granted. The regulations are part of the Safe Drinking Water Act. The district plans to install a gate at the end of the tar segment, a permanent barrier just beyond the last cottage before district land, and a permanent barrier some 200 to 300 feet in from North Auburn Road to allow for parking.
The material in Looking Back is reproduced exactly as it originally appeared, although misspellings and errors made at that time may be edited.