If a chap with a plausible story comes round and requests that you cash a check which is drawn upon the First National Bank of Lewiston and is signed by E. P. Desjardens & Co., don’t throw open your strong box and invite said chap to dip in and take what he wants.

A better scheme would be, perhaps, to unlimber your artillery and start a shoot-up game which would make those Boston and Haverhill bandits look sick.

Officials of the First National Bank have already been asked to honor several of these checks. In each and every instance they have refused. The reason for so doing is the best possible which could be offered. Among their depositors there is no E. P. Desjardins & Co.

50 years ago, 1958

A gigantic community barbecue will touch off the 1958 Auburn-Lewiston United Community Chest campaign for funds, campaign chairman Jere R. Clifford announced last night. The kick-off barbecue will be held Oct. 7 at the Lewiston Athletic Field, or in the armory in event of inclement weather.

“This is the first event of its type ever connected with the opening of the Community Chest’s fund drive here, and I believe it is the first of any elsewhere in the state,” said Clifford. “All proceeds from the sale of the barbecued chicken will go directly to the chest. The chickens are being contributed free by the Hillcrest Poultry Company.

25 years ago, 1983

The Lewiston-Auburn Area League of Women Voters’ Community Guide has hit the stands and area officials have welcomed the booklet.

“The LWV has fulfilled an important community service after years of planning, research and editing.” said Lewiston Mayor Paul Dionne. Auburn City Manager Charles Morrison was equally enthusiastic. “I’ve worked in four different municipalities, and this is the finest public service project of its kind that I’ve ever seen.” he said.

The publication provides up-to-date information on such things as the community’s history, geography, housing, government, education facilities, voting requirements, transportation, worship services and the media.