LEWISTON – The Lewiston Youth Advisory Council is kicking off a fund-raising effort to assist the local school department in placing electronic message boards at both entrances of Lewiston High School.

Members of the council, who had been considering the purchase of a community message board, approached Superintendent Leon Levesque and LHS Assistant Principal John Bouchles in January after hearing of their similar interest, with hope that the two entities could partner in the effort.

At a Jan. 21 youth council meeting, Bouchles shared photos of what the Lewiston School Department had in mind, and a vote of the council followed with members committing to raise/contribute funds toward the $40,000 cost.

Chairwoman Katie Lauze said, “LYAC is excited about pursuing a common goal with the school department to bring enhanced awareness to the fact that It’s Happening Here’.”

Bouchles concurred, “This is an exciting opportunity for the Lewiston School Department and the youth council to work cooperatively for an initiative that is going to benefit the community.”

The council will mail a fund-raising letter in hopes that individuals or businesses might make a contribution. The electronic boards would convey school and community activities/events, and the council believes the messages will benefit area residents by providing them with an opportunity to become better informed as to what’s occurring in their community.

Ryan Reed, vice chairman, said, “This message boards will do great service to the community by providing the people with helpful information in an efficient manner.”

Member Ashley Morgan added, “The boards will also help people who wouldn’t normally be aware of events taking place throughout the city of Lewiston.”

The council has been successful with such projects as raising more than $25,000 for the relocation of Lewiston’s 1891 E. Howard clock as a multi-level display at Lewiston City Hall; facilitating a community-wide noise pollution awareness campaign; and working with the Lewiston Fire Department in promoting “Is Your Number Up” to encourage adequate posting of homes/businesses in case of emergency.

Those wishing to make a donation to the message board may forward a check payable to the Lewiston Youth Advisory Council and forward to LYAC at Lewiston City Hall, 27 Pine St., Lewiston, ME 04240. Inquiries may be directed to 784-2951, ext. 110.


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