It is understood that a so-called “spotter” is in the city acting under the direction of Rev. H. N. Pringle, secretary of the Maine Civic League. At any rate, the slot machines are under cover, with a few exceptions, and the proprietors of stores where slot machines are said to have been operated in the past are on the lookout for the alleged “spotter.” But Mr. Pringle is so well known in these cities that when he steps off the train, the word is passed around and the slot machines disappear. Therefore, it is understood that a stranger has been hired to act as “spotter” here.

50 years ago, 1958

• Maine should start immediately a study of changing vacation habits, Development Commissioner Fred A. Clough Jr. said Wednesday. Vacation travel business in 1957 reached a record high, he said, but a professional review is essential if that record is to be matched or exceeded. “We certainly need to determine what changes have taken place with the advent of superior highway systems, the increase of motel accommodations and the approach of an even shorter work week,” he told his department’s advisory council.

• More than 1,100 persons visited last night the Modern Living Show currently being staged at Lewiston Memorial Armory and featuring the latest in home appliances and furnishings.

25 years ago, 1983

AUGUSTA – Prohibiting Maine nursing-home residents from smoking without a permission slip from their doctors would be a “gross violation” of their rights, an advocate for the elderly said Friday at a hearing on a bill that would do just that. The bill would limit all smoking in nursing homes to specially designated areas.

NEW YORK – Girl Scout cookie sales are still an important rite of spring for Scout troops across the country. But Girl Scouting itself has changed enormously over the last few years. Last year, members sold 127 million boxes of Girl Scout cookies, for a gross revenue of $213 million.

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