With the future of Bates Mill No. 5, Libbey Mill and other considerations still unresolved, Lewiston still holds the dubious distinction of having the second-highest crime rate in Maine – a problem I consider most serious.

New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg has instituted laws beneficial to his city, now touted as a safer city attracting visitors to enjoy its culture, arts and entertainment, shopping, fine dining and such. If Bloomberg could visit Lewiston, sit with city officials and share ideas, an informative discussion with possible solutions might ensue.

The shopping malls and storefronts still hang in the balance.

Bringing a large department store to the area would help fill a void, stimulating the economy and the shopping morale for residents of the Twin Cities.

Barbara Jean Kern, Auburn