It was a sad day when we learned that Lewiston’s Jirard “Jerry” DerBoghosian died June 13 from injuries in an automobile accident on his way to Togus.

What a loss. That guy was one of a kind.

He visited the Sun Journal newsroom regularly. A World War II Navy vet whose ship was torpedoed during the war, he’d walk in singing a Navy song. He’d come in wearing a Santa hat loudly singing Christmas carols in December, always wearing a cheery smile. Jerry paid attention to issues in the community, frequently discussing them with editors.

At 91, his mind and wit were sharp.

He gave of himself, volunteering at the Trinity Jubilee Center and spearheading veterans’ reunions. Jerry was irresistibly corny, on a constant mission to spread joy.

Here’s a poem he recently wrote for us. It’s tacked to our bulletin board.

“Cheer, cheer all reporters alike. The ones at the Sun Journal are our delight. Writing for the community, news first is our responsibility. So remember for first news at hand, read the Sun Journal and you’ll be a fan. So lift your pens and pencils to the sky, for the Sun Journal will remain ever high!!! From Jerry D.”

He was like that. Our community has lost a gem.

Laughs during Lewiston School Committee meeting

Who says attending Lewiston School Committee meetings can’t be fun?

On June 16, Jessica Crabtree of Lewiston Adult Education asked committee members for their approval to offer a new kind of class, all about wine, the history, reading labels, pairing wine, making wine, and wine tasting. Offered by Susan Hall, owner of “The Vault” on Lisbon Street, there’ll be wine samples in class.

“Refresh my memory. What night will that class be offered?” committee Chairman Jim Handy said to laughter.

Committee members asked a few serious questions: “Will anyone under 21 be allowed to take the class?” No; and “Are we covered for liability?” Yes.

The class was approved. The date in October will be announced.

  — Bonnie Washuk

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