Lewiston Sun Journal

As the weather warms, Maine rescue workers emphasize hiker safety

First responders say preparedness is key for hikers hitting western Maine’s busy trails.

Franklin County sets budget hearing for May 27

The county Budget Advisory Committee’s proposal cuts about $64,000 from the commissioners’ spending package.

Outreach for cancer screenings to expand in Rangeley area

Rangeley Health and Wellness is one of eight nonprofits in Maine to receive funding to increase awareness for screening in rural areas.

Festival season is back in Franklin County. Here are a few events you can plan for this summer.

From Rangeley to Farmington, these festivals will keep you entertained all summer long.

A guide to the (few) movie theaters in western Maine

Movie theaters in western Maine still exist, especially during the summer.

Rangeley Independence Day fireworks set for July 2 and 3

The fireworks shows in Rangeley and Oquossoc will be bigger than ever for the nation’s 250th anniversary, organizers say.

Rangeley weighs parking needs, rec center during public hearing

The town will be looking into the long-term development of municipal property in Rangeley and forming a building needs committee.

Meet Rangeley’s 2026 valedictorian and salutatorian

Shirley Truland and Alex Hathaway reflect on high school and look to the future as they head toward graduation.

Rangeley Child Care Center receives economic development award

The award recognized the nonprofit’s efforts to provide quality childcare to the region.

Ice-out brings boaters to Rangeley Lake

Ice-out was called Wednesday, April 28, and fishermen were quick to get their boats out on the water for the first casts of 2026.

Maine’s fifth season is well underway, and it’s messy

Even on the gloomiest, rainy day, Mainers still find the light during mud season.

King of the Mountain race closes out ski season at Saddleback

The annual event brought more than 1,000 to the Rangeley mountain for a snowmobile race to the summit.

Kingfield to hear public comments on Bowdoin campsite

The planning board will take input on the college’s project, which aims to develop a campsite for students’ use.

Take our bookstore tour of western Maine

Rural destination communities are a stronghold for independent bookstores.

Affordability of rural airports up in the air as communities mull economic return

Small-town airfields fuel tourism and access but most rely on taxpayers to stay open.

Domestic violence an ‘absolute emergency,’ say Maine victim advocates

In Farmington and Carrabassett Valley on April 22, Finding Our Voices hosted events to highlight domestic violence awareness — inspired by the death of woman…

Phillips elects new select board member

Justin Vachon was elected to fill an open seat on the board at the April 18 meeting.

Mt. Abram principal names 2026 award recipient

Addie Paul has distinguished herself as an exceptional student who combines strong academic performance with meaningful involvement in her school and community, Principal Jodi Ellis…

Smalls to the Wall kayak race brings crowds back to Western Maine whitewater

The rafting race, organized by Maine Whitewater Championship, was the first of three annual paddling events hosted in Maine.

Here’s where to grab a bite in the Rangeley area this mud season

As activity slows down for mud season, many businesses close their doors for a while. Below is a list of restaurants that are open and…

Walrath Woods project expands river access near Farmington

High Peaks Alliance is working to raise the remaining money to conserve a 120-acre Sandy River property near Farmington for permanent public access.

Here are 3 graphs showing the difference in pay for Western Maine town managers

The salaries of town managers throughout Western Maine can vary vastly, from $50,000 to $156,000.

Carrabassett Valley man indicted in girlfriend’s death

Austin J. Doucette, 24, is accused of shooting Makayla Rose DeSantis, 23, twice in the chest March 8 at the condo they shared in Carrabassett…

High Peaks Alliance highlights growth at Sugarloaf gathering

A Sugarloaf event brought together dozens to highlight expanding conservation efforts and build support for public access projects.

MaineHealth Franklin Hospital to double emergency room capacity

Hospital officials said patient volume has increased significantly, driving phased renovations to expand capacity and improve access.

Rural Maine airports look to upgrade services, infrastructure

Carrabassett Valley is seeking over $5 million in federal grants for renovations.

High Peaks op-ed series to focus on access to outdoors in Farmington region

The High Peaks Alliance has launched a six-part op-ed series on life and land access in Western Maine.

Phillips to hold special election April 18 to fill Select Board vacancy

The Select Board will be down to two out of its regular five members, but three members are required for a quorum.

Franklin County to conduct collaborative process with budget committee prior to setting budget

The move goes against state law that commissioners set a budget and send it to the budget committee.

Construction starts on Rangeley workforce housing

The development will provide 18 units aimed at full-time residents in a town where short-term rentals rule.