Lewiston Sun Journal

High Peaks Alliance prepares for leadership change, launches 2026 naturalist series

Vice President John Rogers will take over for founder Lloyd Griscom as president, as the group continues its mission of collaboration and public access through…

Farmington group notes 41 species for 126th Christmas Bird Count

Local birders surveyed nine western Maine areas Dec. 14, logging 41 species and contributing data to the nation’s longest-running community science bird project.

Maine Huts & Trails offers free guided winter programs starting Jan. 3

Maine Huts & Trails will launch a series of free, guided winter outdoor programs on its trail network beginning Jan. 3, offering snowshoeing, skiing, fat…

Here’s what you need to prevent disaster while traveling Maine’s winter roads

State agencies urge drivers in rural areas to prepare their vehicles and driving habits for Maine’s winter conditions, from snow and ice to moose crossings.

Community involvement, seasonal events highlight year in Phillips-area schools

The MSAD 58 board reviewed enrollment, debt and facilities data as Superintendent Laura Columbia highlighted strong community involvement and upcoming events.

Rangeley wraps holiday season with ‘Christmas Vacation’ screening

About 70 people gathered Dec. 18 at the RFA Lakeside Theater to watch ‘National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation,’ closing out Rangeley Friends of the Arts’ holiday…

When birds irrupt, winter wakes up

Winter birding across Maine highlights familiar winter species, simple tracking clues, feeder tips and welcoming places for residents to enjoy wildlife all season.

Franklin County commissioners must pay back health stipend

The Budget Advisory Committee eliminated the funding in the 2025-26 budget as of July 1.

Winter Wonderland brings holiday cheer to Phillips community

Phillips residents gathered Dec. 13 at the Winter Wonderland for family-friendly activities and a festive evening despite cold weather canceling the tree lighting.

The Woodsman restaurant in Kingfield closes effective immediately

Owners of The Woodsman posted a message on the restaurant’s Facebook business page, saying the café is permanently closed.

Salem Township ‘Christmas House’ is a childhood vision come true

Travis and Leanna Targett go all out decorating their house and yard for Christmas, getting items from flea markets, auctions, lawn sales and anywhere else…

Franklin County commissioners still getting stipends removed from budget

Commissioners are set to vote Tuesday on a resolution to stop the payments.

Holiday fun fills Rangeley during the annual Christmas fair

The Episcopal Church Women hosted a lively and well-attended Holiday Fair on Dec. 12-13, offering décor, crafts, new clothing, and gifts to support outreach near…

Franklin County to review legal opinion on budget authority

Franklin County commissioners and the Budget Advisory Committee are at odds over whether eliminated line items can be restored after legal counsel determined the committee’s…

Franklin County land conserved with climate, recreation in mind

The 3,586-acre South Branch Forest in Dallas Plantation has been permanently protected, the Trust for Public Land said Wednesday.

With first major snowfall, Saddleback set to open for skiing and riding Friday

Maine’s third-largest ski mountain will start the season with top-to-bottom skiing and riding available on at least 8 trails.

Looking for a Christmas tree? Try these Franklin County small businesses.

These Franklin County tree farms and nurseries will help you find the perfect Christmas tree to bring home for the holidays.

Western Maine food pantries expand support as winter approaches

Food pantries across Franklin County are offering expanded hours, free meals and low-barrier access to help residents meet rising food needs.

Rangeley to purchase .35-acre property despite environmental concerns

The effects of a 2023 oil spill on the Pleasant Street property are not fully known.

Nomination papers available Wednesday for Eustis elections

There are five town and school positions up for election in March.

Mt. Abram schools prepare for withdrawal negotiations

Committees in district towns of Strong, Phillips and Kingfield are researching costs associated with leaving MSAD 58. Strong is ready to negotiate.

Group buys 20 acres in Carrabassett Valley for $10 for workforce housing

Western Maine Mountain Housing hopes to build 40-plus units near Sugarloaf Mountain to help with the shortage of affordable housing.

Preparing home-cooked meals can be expensive. Here are some ways to save.

Whether it is due to the cost of goods or inability to access benefits, food insecurity is a reality of life for many.

As backcountry rescues rise, some Maine first responders turning to location app for help

A simple 3-word code can help pinpoint emergencies in remote terrain, yet dispatchers and wardens caution that no app can replace planning and backcountry know-how.

Sugarloaf to open for 75th anniversary season Friday

The Carrabassett Valley resort will offer a commemorative 75th anniversary face buff to the first 75 guests in line Friday.

Step-by-step: Training through Franklin County’s local trails a lesson in endurance

Hiking local trails offers more than exercise, it’s a reminder of how much beauty and balance can be found close to home in Franklin County’s…

‘Desperately needed’ wood bank opens in Franklin County

Eligible households will be able to purchase firewood at a reduced rate. Recipients will be referred to a program that will pay up to $15,000…

‘Catastrophic’ Rangeley water main break repaired, but users asked to limit usage for now

Repairs were completed Thursday afternoon but water customers were urged to continue conserving water for the next few days.

Rangeley voters approve property acquisition

Rangeley voters Tuesday approved acquiring land next to the Town Office by a vote of 309-186.

Phillips, Strong, Kingfield continue exploring school district withdrawal

Three of the four towns served by Phillips-based Maine School Administrative District 58 are exploring withdrawing from the district.