American Legion Post 62 welcomed Westbrook’s Scout Troop 87 at its March 5 meeting. Pictured, from left in front, are Post 62 officers Dennis Marrotte, Phil LeClerc and Michael Thomas; Troop 87 Boy Scout Master Joshua Bradford; Troop 87 Cub Scout Master Nathaniel Dyer; Cub Scout Sam Dyer in blue; Boy Scout Joseph Bradford; and Roger Barr, Post 62. Back row, from left, are Phil Spiller, Ed Symbol, Gary York, Gerry Doyon and Richard Galipeau. Contributed / Rebecca Boaz

Readers remember Councilor LeConte

The American Journal has recently heard from readers following the paper’s story about the passing of former Westbrook City Councilor Paul LeConte.

Patricia Larrabee of Cumberland wrote that she first met LeConte while she worked at Walker Memorial Library with his wife, Dianne, in 1971. “He was very sociable, hard working, devoted to friends and their large family,” Larrabee said.

Bob Denbow of Saco lived in the same neighborhood growing up with LeConte. Denbow remembered when he was 5 years old, Paul’s mother sent him over to introduce himself.

“We were buddies, Saco Street School (and) on,” Denbow wrote.

RTP appoints new executive director

After more than three decades of dedicated service, Jack Deberadinis, executive director of the Regional Transportation Program, retired Feb. 28. He was succeeded by Don Libby.

RTP is based in Westbrook.

“Jack’s leadership has been instrumental in transforming RTP into a vital community resource, providing safe, accessible and reliable transportation for residents throughout Cumberland County,” a press release said.

RTP said among Deberadinis’ many accomplishments was securing the funding and overseeing the successful relocation of RTP into its current facility in Westbrook.

“Jack’s passion and leadership have set a high bar, and we are incredibly grateful for his years of service,” said Molly Tompkins, RTP board president. “We are also excited to welcome Don into this new leadership role. His knowledge, experience, and vision will help ensure RTP continues to grow and thrive in the years ahead.”

Libby was promoted from manager of transit operations. Libby has been with RTP four years and has a “deep understanding of RTP’s operations,” the press release said.

Regional Transportation Program is a nonprofit organization providing safe and reliable transportation services to individuals throughout Cumberland County. The program serves seniors, persons with disabilities, low-income residents and the general public, ensuring all community members have access to essential transportation.

It can be reached at 774-2666 or 800-244-0704.

Meet firefighters

Coffee and cookies will be served at 1 p.m. on March 27, in the Redwood Room at Westbrook Community Center, 426 Bridge St. with an opportunity to meet city firefighters. Admission is free.

50 years ago

The American Journal reported on March 26, 1975, that the Westbrook High School class of 1960 was planning its 15th reunion. Organizers were searching for several classmates and those with information about a published list of names were asked to contact Pat (Foye) Haskell.