Jan Fraser, executive director of Waban Photo: Sanford News, March 22, 2001
Sanford 25 Years Ago
By Lawrence Furbish
Keeping Lincoln School open was front page news. The Sanford School Board had been looking at cuts for the school budget that would result in the closing of Lincoln School. But persuasive arguments by school board member Michael Perkins and the public resulted in the committee voting unanimously against the cuts and sent $25.2 million on to the Warrant Committee. It would mean a $1.87 property tax increase for every $1,000 in valuation. Lincoln School became the site of Sanford Adult Education and was later turned into apartments.
The “Luck of the Irish” shined on Waban when their 30th telethon raised $74,807, an all-time high that exceeded their 2001 goal. TV news and weather personality Kevin Mannix led volunteers during the broadcast produced by Steve Lewis at the Knights of Columbus Hall. Executive Director Jan Fraser and four other volunteers were honored for their 30 years of service.
A Dover, NH, man led police on a long chase initiated in Somersworth through two roadblocks, ending in Sanford. Police initially tried to pull him over after calls reported his erratic driving. He failed to stop and the pursuit went down Route 202. Sanford police blocked the road with cruisers and put down spiked mats. The fugitive drove over them, puncturing three tires and kept going. Another partial roadblock was set up on Kimble Street. His tires deflated and started smoking, and he finally stopped when he could no longer see to drive.
A hoped-for block grant targeted to rehabilitate the old Nasson gym failed to materialize. The May Town Meeting would decide if the town should accept the gym from the Springvale Library Association. A committee was formed to organize repairs and raise money.
The Titans swim team finished a “great season” with a trip to Orono to compete in the state YMCA swim championships. Despite snow and slippery roads, they made their way up and back and came away with ribbons, trophies, and some of their best swims of the season.
An editorial raised the issue of the new District Courthouse in Sanford and how it was not readily available to handicapped individuals. The Sanford Site Review Committee was criticized for glossing over the issue. The handicapped parking spaces were described as far away from the new building.
Star Cellular was offering unlimited calling (through their extensive home zone) for $35 a month.
At Chunky’s Cinema, birthday parties were available for $12.95 a person and included a movie, unlimited pizza, popcorn, soda, a hoodsie cup and candy.
Lawrence Furbish is president of the Sanford-Springvale Historical Society. The Historical Society Museum in Springvale has many resources regarding Sanford’s history. It is open Saturday, 10 am-2 pm and Friday 10 am-4 pm.
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