POLAND – Poland Community School closed at noon Wednesday after the heating system broke and a water-filled coil burst.

The school’s heater failed during the night. School started as normal, but the building cooled during the morning. At one point, a water-filled heating coil froze and burst, sending water into two classrooms.

School officials notified parents about the problem and sent the elementary school’s 435 students home at noon.

The water covered the floor of a second-floor classroom and caused some ceiling damage to a first-floor classroom below, Principal Carolyn Johnson said. Workers spent Wednesday afternoon cleaning and drying the area.

Workers also repaired the heater and replaced the broken coil. The heater failed to start because of a problem with its actuator, said Operations Director Gorton Murray

School is expected to open on time today.

– Lindsay Tice
Students to show pro-Wal-Mart film

Lewiston – A pro-Wal-Mart film designed to counteract anti-Wal-Mart publicity will be shown at 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 8, at Bates College.

The Bates College Republicans will show “Why Wal-Mart Works and Why That Drives Some People Crazy” in the Filene Room in Pettigrew Hall (Room 301). All are welcome.

Flu clinic set for Monday

AUBURN – The Auburn Health Department, in partnership with Central Maine Medical Center, will hold a flu clinic on Monday, Dec. 12, at Auburn Hall.

Appointments are required to ensure that there is enough vaccine available and to minimize waiting times.

Donations of $5 will be accepted to cover the cost of materials for the clinic. To make an appointment, call 333-6601, extension 1413 or 1412, or e-mail: [email protected].

Democrats to meet Tuesday

AUBURN – The Auburn City Democratic Committee will meet at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 13, in the Community Meeting Room of the Auburn Police Station.

Refreshments will be available during and following the meeting. For more information, call Ed or Sheila at 777-3125.