100 years ago, 1918
While Dr. Garfield has not modified in the slightest degree the drastic coal retrenchment orders issued Wednesday night and which go into effect today, they have been interpreted here not to include industrial plants using natural gas, wood or water power. This exempts practically all of the local manufactories and it was announced last night that the mills and shoe factories of Lewiston and Auburn would operate as usual today and during periods designated for the shutting down of all plants requiring coal fuel to develop power.

50 years ago, 1968
(Photo caption) Cookies made by Cadette scouts of Troop 265 are packed in popcorn to be sent to servicemen in Vietnam for Valentine’s Day. Each of the boxes readied for mailing included a bright valentine, and they’ll go to young soldiers whose names were supplied by the Salvation Army. Those not receiving cookies will be sent letters. Among those at work on the project, through which they will earn chef’s and public service badges are Debbie Allen, Linda Jalbert, Tonie Camardesi, Amy Bernard, Peggy Booth, Linda Roberts, Evelyn and Donna Lam, Cindy Leblanc, Linda Spagnardi, Mary McRae, Carol Collins, Rachel Veilleux, Brenda MeCannell and Mary Delehanty.

25 years ago, 1993
“Partnership” was the password Friday when staff and directors of WMTW-Channel 8 and first-through-fourth-graders at New Gloucester’s Memorial School celebrated the beginning of what Principal Betty Tracy called the “adventure” of an Adopt-a-School partnership. Bob Rice, general manager of WMTW-TV, told the assembled students, staff and parents of his own experiences in Illinois and Rhode Island with similar instances of the nationwide Adopt-A-School program, which pairs businesses and schools in partnerships for the enrichment of everyone involved.

The material in Looking Back is reproduced exactly as it originally appeared, although misspellings and errors made at that time may be corrected.