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July 11, 2024

Down East, a Maine 'identity' magazine for 70 years, names new publisher

Down East, the iconic Maine lifestyle magazine founded 70 years ago, on Thursday said it has appointed Lawrence Hollins as publisher, effective immediately. He succeeds Bob Fernald in that position, and is the first nonfamily member to serve in the leadership role.

Courtesy / Down East
Lawrence Hollins

Hollins was previously associate publisher, after starting with the magazine in 2007 as an advertising staffer. He later worked as the advertising director. In 2019 he was named director of business development and took on the associate publisher role shortly afterward.

In a news release, Down East said, "This appointment marks a significant step forward for the magazine, promising continued excellence and innovation in serving our readers and customers."

Fernald, who will continue in his role as president and CEO, told Mainebiz, "This promotion formally acknowledges a role [Hollins] has informally held for several years. With this transition, the magazine's editorial team will now report directly to him. The values, mission, and vision of the magazine will continue to evolve as it has for near 800 issues over 70 years."

Hollins is a resident of Northport, where he lives on a farm with his wife, Ina, and their children, Thomas and Iris.

Down East, which began in 1954, has a circulation of about 90,000, many of whom are paying subscribers living outside of Maine. The magazine is owned by Down East Enterprise Inc., based in Camden and with offices in Portland and Rockport.

The publication describes itself as "an identity magazine for Mainers and for anyone whose heart and soul are fed by our state and state of mind."

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