BELFAST—Avonlea Lecher, 10, and her brother, Cole, 12 are big fans of the tiny world of miniatures. Together, they have made their own room boxes out of shoeboxes, filling them with handmade furniture.

It just so happens that their dad, Matt Lecher, owns a store, Heavenly Bean Bags, down the hall from Jamie’s Miniatures, located in the Belfast Mall on High Street next to the Colonial Theatre. The siblings, who are part of a family of eight children, would often pop down the hall to marvel at all of the miniature items in Jamie Lucas’s shop, which gave Lucas an idea before Christmas.

“These two would come in and start mentally picking out some items they wanted for Christmas,” said Lucas. “And I’ve been in the miniatures business for a long time, so I reached out to my network to see if anyone had any dollhouse miniatures they’d like to donate to these kids.”

Not only did seven dollhouse enthusiasts donate a number of tiny items, including a gift certificate of $25, but then, another business owner, Susan Tobey White, an artist who runs her gallery out of the Belfast Mall, got involved.

“My mom was a miniaturist, who often bought things from Jamie’s Miniatures,” said White. “I grew up making small things for my mother’s dollhouse and learned how to sew curtains and to crochet rugs. So, I donated a dollhouse that my daughter used to own for the kids to have.”

“Matt’s mother was also one of my customers at one time,” added Lucas.

Matt Lecher said with eight kids at home, things were too hectic around the holidays to unveil this special surprise, so they decided to do it on Wednesday, January 5.

Lecher told Avonlea and Cole to go over to Lucas’s shop, as they often do—and he would be right back. He walked back in with an enormous Christmas-wrapped box as the siblings’ eyes widened.

Setting it down onto a table, while Lucas and White looked on, Lecher told his children, “Okay, you can open it.”

It never gets old to see kids tear open wrapping paper with anticipation.

“This is awesome!” Cole said upon seeing the dollhouse.

They got a second surprise upon opening the box of donated miniatures. Right away, the pair began building out the rooms together with a shared sense of what should go where. Immediately they consulted and agreed that the lower left room was to be a music room with a grand piano as the centerpiece.

“I’m learning how to play piano,” said Cole, with Avonlea adding, “And I’m learning to play violin.”

“You guys can decide together how you want to use the $25 gift certificate, or if you can’t agree, we’ll split it down the middle,” said their father.

Conferring together while constructing the kitchen, Cole and Avonlea both agreed they’d use the gift certificate to buy “food” to place on the breadboard.

Lecher said Avonlea—Avi, for short, used to have a dollhouse when she was younger, but that it had practically been destroyed by the younger kids. Let’s just say it was “over loved.”

“We have a secret place we’re going to hide this dollhouse,” Cole said.

“I’m very well known in the world of miniatures with a lot of support on Facebook, so to all of the people who donated for this gift, I say thank you,” said Lucas.

“Yes, they will be thrilled about this for quite awhile,” added Lecher. “They’re pretty creative kids, so they’ll be building things for it for a long time.”

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

CAMDEN—There’s a passage in “The Great Gatsby” where the narrator Nick observes Jay Gatsby reaching his arms out at the end of a dock to embrace what looks like green light across the water. The literary device symbolizes Gatsby’s hopes and dreams for a brighter (less depressive) future.

A digital photograph that film producer Josh Povec took with a Sony A7iii across the bay in Camden 90 minutes after sunset in October is the green light we all need right now. It is from the vantage point at an overlook off Bayview Street looking out to Curtis Island where the flash of green from the lighthouse spills across the dark, calm ocean.

“It was late dusk, the late blue hour when I stopped in Camden,” said Povec. “I think I was headed later to dinner at my parent’s house that night. The full moon is rising directly behind the island backlighting the clouds. The image was made using a 13-second-exposure, so all the motion of the water blurs to look almost like frozen ice and makes the green reflection from the lighthouse more pillar-like.”

Povec, who calls himself a hobbyist photographer, often checks his phone apps to find out when the moon will be full, or the Milky Way will be present, to capture images such as this.

“What was happening in this image was just so beautiful, but sometimes you really can’t see with the naked eye how it will come out,” he said.

A native of Camden, Povec traveled and worked as an associate producer and video editor in several states as well as in New Zealand before moving back to Camden in 2003. Povec joined Compass Light from 2004 to 2013 as the senior editor on the 64-part Discovery Channel series SUNRISE EARTH. After that, he moved to Colorado for five years and returned home to Maine three years ago.

Ironically, Compass Light, the producer of science, history, and expedition/travel films, has direct ties to Povec’s photograph. Its founder, David Conover and his extended family, have been the seasonal caretakers at the Curtis Island Lighthouse for nearly 40 years.

Povec continues to make films for various clients, and as senior producer at Compass Light Productions in Camden, he and his team just finished 13 short character-driven documentaries in 11 countries this year. In his own time, he continues to get behind the camera, working on adventure films that reflect his deep interest in the outdoors, with his most recent film about a friend of his who tracks animals in the snowpack on Criehaven island.

He’s also building a website to showcase some of his best nature photographs.

“I’d like to sell enough photography to generate revenue to buy a new lens,” he said. “I'm also gearing up to do more gallery work with both my photos and video.” 

You can see more of his work on Instagram.

As we head into 2022, leaving the darkest month of the year, let’s all keep our eyes on that green light in Povec’s photograph.

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

After nearly two years into a pandemic, people are weary of not being able to socialize with friends and family, but also cautious as the Omicron variant spikes over the holidays. Here’s your slimmed-down guide to what’s happening in the Midcoast for New Year’s Eve 2021-2022—whatever your comfort level.

Belfast

New Year’s By The Bay

Belfast’s biggest wintertime event is not taking place for the second year due to the Covid-19 virus. Instead, Our Town Belfast in placing luminaries throughout Belfast to symbolize hope and to light the way into the New Year. Make your own or buy a luminary kit at Belfast Co-op for $10; all proceeds support OTB and the project. Then, on New Year's Eve place them on a flat surface outside at dusk. Take a walk or drive around town to enjoy others’ luminaries.

Searsmont

Threshers Brewing Co.

Threshers will host a Downeast Grateful Dead-themed NYE party at 8 p.m. featuring Bangor Dead cover band Merther. Tickets: $15 in advance $20 at the door.

Union

Sterlington Public House

SPH is doing a NYE keg drop with a limited menu and “some super naughty food & beverage specials.” Their outdoor fire tables will be lit and at 9 p.m., the honorary keg will be lowered from the roof to signify the start of the New Year followed by a prosecco toast.

For the holidays and to highlight activities and adventures, we’re shining the spotlight on Maine craftspeople. Shop locally and support innovators and entrepreneurs who keep the creative economy alive in this state. 

Pickleball with Friends or Family

Rockport, Maine

The back story: If you’ve never heard of pickleball, Mid-Coast Recreation Center is the place to find out what makes the game so fun.

The game, a cross-between ping pong, badminton, and tennis, is a racket sport in which two to four players use a paddle to whack a whiffle ball over the net. 

“It’s played on a shorter court and is easy to learn,” said MRC Executive Director and pickleball instructor Craig Wilson. “It is one of the fastest-growing sports in America and there is a high demand for a sport besides tennis. This appeals to people who haven’t played a sport in the past. It’s a good, entry-level game that is fun to play. The average length of a rally in tennis is three shots and the average length of a rally in pickleball is nine shots, so you can keep the ball in play longer.”

Cost: You can rent the court for $35 an hour for up to eight people on the court. All paddles and balls are complimentary.  Conversely, you can drop in on a pick-up game for $5 per person. The court is popular, however,  reserved weeks ahead, so get your reservation in early. FMI: MRC

In his words: “The majority of our players are 50 and over. It appeals to retired folks and to people with injuries or less mobility because there’s not as much movement on the court. Generally, it’s a lot more fun.”

Maine Forest Yurts

Durham, Maine

The back story: This family-owned business, set upon 100 acres in Durham on Runaround Pond, was started by the Maine winner of the reality show Survivor: Gabon, Bob Crowley, the oldest contestant to ever win on the show. “My parents bought the property in the early 1980s with the intent of cutting lumber, and about 20 years ago, we began to think ‘We could share this with people,’” said Operations Manager Page Atherton. Bob used his $1 million prize to open up this glamping retreat with his wife, Peggy. After Survivor, he built the wooden bases for the four eco-friendly yurts. Each one has six bunk beds and a futon that pulls out, a wood stove, and is fully furnished (including stacks of cut firewood) with a composting toilet. Nature lovers can bring their own cross-country skis, snowshoes, and ice skates and explore the property and pond. It’s also pet-friendly.

Cost: $150 per night. Find out more at maineforestyurts.com/yurts

In her words: “It’s nice and cozy with the woodstove even in the dead of winter. It’s the perfect getaway when you’re stuck in Maine for the winter and you can’t [for pandemic reasons] go anywhere else.”

Luxury Picnics Acadia

Mount Desert Island, Maine

The back story: Acadia Luxury picnics is the creation of Bar Harbor resident Tabitha Brown, an entrepreneur came up with the idea to do luxury picnics outdoors in the midst of the pandemic while everyone was at home during the quarantine. “People were stuck inside and nothing felt normal anymore,” she said.  “I wanted so badly to do things outside and still feel like I was ‘going out’ on a dinner date, even though the world was closed down. Being that I was a new mom, that gave me even more drive to create something to better our lives and show my child that even though the world was unpredictable, life wasn't just the four walls of our house. I spent a lot of time on TikTok (I’ll admit it) and came across some other companies on the west coast doing similar things. I thought, how cool would it be to bring that to Maine? We are Vacationland. We have so much to offer and I can show it to them. I have always considered myself to be a Type A planner with a Type B personality, so this fits me like a glove. I talk to clients from start to finish, with the goal of making their date night as stress-free as possible. I do all the planning, find the location, put together the theme, order and deliver the food, and do the full set up/clean up.”

Cost: Acadia Luxury Picnics offers four packages: two “date” packages starting at $200 for two people for two hours, as well as a “proposal package” starting at $400, and finally a larger party package. Each package has several styled themes to choose from: Bohemian, Farmhouse, Maine, and “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun.” Each varies in color, but any picnic is totally customizable. FMI: Acadia Luxury Picnics

In her words: “As a 12-year-old, I remember my aunt’s wedding vividly. I ran around her wedding venue and tried to fine-tune her reception area before she arrived. Moving small unsightly bookshelves and clearing the surfaces that seemed to have been forgotten. I wanted to see her eyes sparkle when she walked in and saw nothing but beauty. I thought to myself, ‘This is a job I would love to have’ —and I’ve done just that.”

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

BELFAST—Wind Tracy, co-owner and bartender for Satori, a Sushi restaurant and cocktail bar in Belfast, has put a Japanese spin on the holiday cocktail for the season—with a wry name perfect for “these pandemic times.”

The Holiday Stimulus is a Japanese whisky-based cocktail that perfectly packs substantial sweet and sour flavors in a coupe glass.

“We first made this cocktail last year for the holiday season; we were still shut down because of the COVID-19 virus, and the stimulus checks were all starting to run out for the year,” he said. “We wanted to do something that played on that. Like a stimulus check, this cocktail hopefully brightened your year.”

Instead of the heavy cream or eggnog-based holiday drinks, he chose to build a cocktail “that’s a little more sophisticated with a sweet-bitter element to it,” he said. “The last couple of holidays have been bittersweet because of the pandemic. We can’t necessarily be with the family that we love. We can’t necessarily do the traditions we’re used to, but it’s still the holidays and we want to celebrate a little bit.”

Tracy, well known in the Midcoast for his craft cocktails over the last decade, as written about by Jenna Lookner for PenBay Pilot, has said, “It’s all about the balance of flavors and combining the Japanese and American schools of thought.” 

“I really love Japanese whisky in general,” he said. “In the grand scheme of things, it’s fairly new to the worldwide scene. They’ve only been part of the distilling practice for about 100 years as opposed to the rest of the world, which has been distilling for more than 1,000 years.”

Tracy shows us how to make this cocktail made from Suntory Toki whisky, described on its website as “a silky whisky with a subtle sweet-and-spicy finish,” which he compares to sake in that “it deals with very light, but complex flavors.”

Watch the video to see how the cocktail is made. You’ll need:

• 2 oz. Suntory Toki whisky (found at most Hannaford Supermarkets)
• 1 oz. Cynar, an Italian bitter liqueur (found at specialty liquor stores)
• ½ oz. spiced pomegranate syrup
• Two dashes of Angostura bitters
• Two dashes of Regan’s orange bitters no. 6

First, fill both a pint glass and a coupe glass with ice. Add ingredients above to the pint glass and stir. To prep the syrup, take 100 -percent pomegranate juice, a half cup of juicy red wine (he used a Corbières), mulling spices, fresh ginger, sliced oranges and a quarter cup of sugar and boil on the stove until it reduces to half; chill and strain. Strain cocktail into the chilled coupe glass and garnish with star anise, pomegranate seeds, and an orange slice.

This is one of those cocktails that shapeshifts as you sip it. This is one you take slooooowwww. From the start, you’ll pick up the sweet from the pomegranate syrup, the spice from the star anise, and the sour from the bitters, but the more the star anise, pomegranate seeds, and orange slice garnish marinate in the glass, the bigger the flavor gets, with deeper flavors of orange from the Regan’s orange bitters seeping through.

“I really believe that a cocktail should change throughout the tasting or at least make you conscious of the flavors that you’re tasting,” he said.

Make the cocktail yourself for your next holiday party, or have it made for you by Tracy at Satori.

Happy bittersweet holidays!

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

BELFAST—An old 1980s Toyota Huntsman camper van that had been sitting in Larraine Brown’s backyard for about a month has come back to life as a traveling art van. Rechristened “Betty The Brilliant ArtVan,” the camper is like a Bookmobile, only with art. 

Brown, a board member of the Belfast Area Community Coalition, dba Artivism In Maine (AIMe), is candid about Betty’s origins.

“It was a bad buy,” she said, “A bad decision, so after it had been sitting there for so long, we thought, ‘What could we do with it?’ ”

Belfast Area Creative Coalition has undergone a two-year cultural planning process to ascertain what residents wanted and needed and one of the biggest needs to come out of that study was more access to the arts.

However, with the Covid-19 pandemic hindering their initial plans, the group, like so many other businesses, had to re-think the mission and started to strategize how they could bring art outdoors to the people instead of the initial model of bringing people all indoors for the art.

Betty is named after one of Waldo County Commissioners, Betty Johnson, who is a tireless supporter of the arts.

Belfast artist Krista Odom, who has done murals at the BelfastMaskers, was tasked with overhauling her exterior “look.”

“We were standing in Larraine’s yard, trying to think of what to paint Betty as this beautiful rooster and hen were walking around,” said Odom. “And as we were trying to think of what to paint Betty, Larraine pointed to the rooster and hen said, ‘Let’s paint them and do the colors of outside.’”

The result is a whimsical, naturalist folk art mural of woodland animals, trees, meadows, and flowers on one side of the van. The other side is populated by outsider art and child-made art consisting of drawings and word expressions.

“It’s taken most of the pandemic to paint it,” said Odom. “And it’s still a work in progress.”

Betty also benefited from the assistance of craftsperson Norman Kehlig, who founded HIIT, Helping Incarcerated Individuals Transition, with dozens of volunteers helping to refurbish Betty’s infrastructure.

This past year, Betty has been driven to 15 places, from soup kitchens to Kids Unplugged, a play center in Belfast to art centers.

“We hire musicians, dancers, and performers to meet us there,” said Brown. “They come out of the van and spill out with art. We also have arts and supplies for both adults and kids to use while Betty is there.” Betty’s facilitators also provide musical instruments on their outings for impromptu jam sessions.

“We’re also planning on recording stories in 2022,” said Brown.

The community’s response to Betty has been joyful after a long year and a half of living in lockdown.

Betty will be going out for rides in neighborhoods throughout Belfast and Waldo County during the holiday season, bringing gifts, games, art supplies, music and more to the neighboring communities.

“We’re also taking up collections for backpacks for kids with art supplies, hats, and mittens in them, so we can distribute them on our next rounds.”

To learn more about Betty’s transformation, visit Odom’s blog. find out more about Betty The Art Van visit the website and Belfast Are Creative Coalition’s Facebook page.

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

PORTLAND—Sometimes a brilliant idea for a new business is just a phone call away.

For Sarah Guerette, Director of the CEI Women’s Business Center, that idea sprung from multiple phone calls to the center, which assists aspiring female entrepreneurs.

“We get calls all of the time from individuals who want to shop from women-owned businesses or from institutions looking to hire women specifically,” she said. “And there was no state directory available.”

In the last year, CEI Women’s Business Center has built a new website called the Maine Women’s Business List—a free, public directory of women-owned businesses in Maine, working to raise visibility for the female entrepreneurs powering the economy.

Guerette, going on a percentage of women-owned businesses across the country, estimates that there are approximately 40,000 women-owned businesses in the state of Maine. At the time of this interview more than 300 businesses had signed up on the directory.

According to CEI’s press release: “The companies listed in the directory are searchable by geography, industry, or keyword. All entries are self-reported, and the WBC encourages any business headquartered in Maine and which is also at least 50 percent female-owned, to register. This includes cis women, and also trans women, and femme/feminine-identifying genderqueer and non-binary individuals.”

The categories for each industry are tied to The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS), the standard used by Federal statistical agencies in classifying business establishments. So, while not every business “fits” the NAICS code classification perfectly, Guerette said the directory encourages the use of specific keywords and hashtags for further personalization.

“We’re pulling from all of those ways to classify each business in the search bar feature on the home page,” she said.

In the Midcoast, the directory is giving a boost to such small companies as Bloom Maine in Belfast, an early childcare education program; LooHoo in Camden, which makes environmentally-friendly wool dryer balls; and Create 3D models, in Union, which offers STEM skills in the form of 3D printing, virtual augmented reality, and coding technology to teachers, parents, and after-school providers. [See attached pdf to this story above the ads in the right-hand column].

In the last two years, hundreds of studies have confirmed that the COVID-19 pandemic has hit women harder economically than men. Many women-owned firms in sectors such as retail, hospitality, and tourism, saw decreased employment when in-person capacity at these establishments became restricted. In addition, there were nearly 10 million mothers in the workforce in 2019 and studies show throughout the pandemic, insufficient and shutdown childcare has directly impacted their work and wages, forcing many to care for the children at home.

“The whole goal for this list was to help women in general, as well as those impacted by the pandemic gain more visibility,” said Guerette. “As a result, we’re hearing that women are starting to pick up more work and contracts just from being featured on this directory.”

The directory is also designed to be used as a tool to help Maine’s female entrepreneurs connect and collaborate with each other. As it just launched in November, Guerette and her team are currently using their time to fine-tune the directory.

“As far as building out more in-person connections, that’s something that’s very much on our radar as a possibility in the future,” she said.

To sign up your business for free go to Maine Women’s Business List

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

We’ve got a couple of fun things to do this weekend and then Weekend Spotlight will be taking a hiatus until the holidays are over. We’re looking forward to some arts and entertainment in 2022!

Weird, Wild, Wonderful Maine — A Reading

Friday, December 17—Camden

Louisa & The Kelly Brothers at Ada’s Kitchen

Saturday, December 18—Rockland

Two businesses expand to Camden/Rockland

Elev8 in Warren, an energy drink business we’ve featured in the Pilot, has now expanded to Camden setting up base at 24 Mechanic Street including a gift shop.

They’re offering “Now We’re Cooking,” live in-person cooking classes twice a month as well as family-friendly cooking classes with children and parents once a month. They also have an online cooking group. This Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. they will be hosting Santa and Mrs. Claus. FMI: Details.

Also, Me Lon Togo, another restaurant we’ve featured in the past has re-located to Rockland. Starting Friday, December 17, they will be at 10 Leland Street. That night, they will have live music featuring Dave Mello from 5 to 9 p.m. Call 207-872-8146 to make a reservation. FMI: Details.

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

For the holidays, we’re shining the spotlight on Maine craftspeople. Shop locally and support innovators and entrepreneurs who keep the creative economy alive in this state. Each week, until the end of December, we will bring you this series until you can’t take it anymore. Ready. Set. Go.

Reclaimed Maine Buoys

Portland, Maine

The back story: Husband and wife Jesse and Sheryl Bennett started Reclaimed Maine Buoys in the midst of the pandemic when they had a lot of time on their hands. 

“When my husband and  I were cleaning our yard, we noticed we had a lot of scrap wood hanging around,” said Sheryl Bennett.  “I started brainstorming about what I could do with some of it and hence the old-fashioned lobster buoys were reborn. I posted a photo of my buoys with my house number on them on Facebook and a friend loved them! I started making them just for friends & family but the business soon grew and I launched my Etsy. Of course, I didn’t have nearly enough wood to build enough to go around, so I started asking family, friends, and neighbors. After I exhausted that, I started searching Craigslist & FB marketplace for more. Now, I travel all throughout Maine and New England to procure used wood.

“My husband cuts, sands, and drills the hole in the wood, and I base paint each buoy, tape them out, stripe them and finally add a number,” she said. “We finish them off with reclaimed lobster rope. Some old and some newer. But never from a store. My purpose is to repurpose.”

These nautical buoys are all one of a kind and made from 100% reclaimed rustic wood complete with their own dings, dangs, cracks & imperfections. All are custom-made with a choice of one hand-painted number/digit per buoy or without a number.

Cost: $25 each. They can be found in their Etsy shop.

In their words: “Knowing that our buoys provide people with a little piece of Maine, makes creating them so much more fun!”

Sailcloth Toiletry Bag

Brunswick, Maine

The back story: Melissa Kalicin is the founder of Oceanum Vela and an avid sailor.  She makes duffle bags and toiletry bags from upcycled sails.

“The real back story is that I sailed away six years ago since I live on a boat,” she said. “Pending climate change, I feared it becoming harder to do into the future. I went to the Caribbean where I met up with the Race Circuit there and got on some of the famous former Volvo Ocean Race (VOR) yachts. There, I saw them actually throw original old VOR sails away! I figured since dacron sails were repurposed all the time, why would we not salvage and repurpose the most elite, wonderfully branded sails that went around the world?”

Cost: $59 each plus shipping. Bags can be purchased through oceanumvela.net/shop

In her words: “The concept of the brand came from working in the sail industry, becoming a dedicated race fan, observing the sail repurposing production shops and thinking about how to improve on an already fantastic idea—to focus on even more conscious design, promote ocean health awarenesss, model a sustainability program for the global sailing community, and bring to the race fans around the world an extraordinary repurposed sail product—an actual piece of the race.”

Lobster Rope Wreaths

Freeport, Maine

The back story: Jeanine O’Brien and her husband, Tim Barthelman, created a homedécor company, WharfWarp with eco-friendly products using only retired rope from Maine’s local lobstering industry. 

“It started from an idea for a small craft fair in 2016, a simple nautical rope wall hanging has evolved into our signature wreath and doormat design,” said O’Brien.

“Our raw material was initially the remnants of a massive pile of rope collected during the 2009 lobster rope buyback program. Using self-made jigs, we hand weave the reclaimed rope into 100% upcycled and eco-friendly wreaths, doormats, and other items. We have since traveled the coast of Maine and its islands collecting rope from individual lobstermen. Thus far we have diverted 15 tons of waste rope from an unfitting end. The still-functional rope would otherwise be burned, buried, or improperly disposed of. The many lobstermen we’ve met along the way have opened our eyes to the ongoing marine waste issue in coastal communities.”

Cost: Wreaths range from $50-$60 are available at wharfwarp.com and can also be found at these locations.

In their words: “The old rope has a lot more to give well after it reaches the end of its usefulness to fishermen. We are dedicated to using only retired fishing rope after seeing first-hand the volume of old material in need of an eco-friendly solution. Unfortunately, there are makers using new rope and ignoring the problem. "  

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

It’s raining cats and dogs this weekend (figuratively) with a holiday party dedicated to animals, a tribute show named after a cat, and a mellow jazz concert, which has nothing to do with cats or dogs.

Tinsel & Tails Holiday Gala

Friday, December 10—Camden

Cat Stevens Tribute Show

Sunday, December 12— Belfast

Funny story: Every time I pick up a prescription for my cat at the pharmacy, the label lists it as “Cat Stephens.” If you love the real Cat Stevens, musician Tom DiMenna will be playing at Three Tides & Marshall Wharf Brewery to celebrate the 50th anniversary of “Tea for the Tillerman.” DiMenna replicates Cat’s signature finger-picking melodies and vocal phrasing to set the mood. The fee show goes from 5 to 8 p.m. FMI: Details

Big Band Jazz Kind of Afternoon

Sunday, December 12—Belfast

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

For the holidays, we’re shining the spotlight on Maine craftspeople. Shop locally and support innovators and entrepreneurs who keep the creative economy alive in this state. Each week, until the end of December, we will bring you this series until you can’t take it anymore. Ready. Set. Go.

Beach Star Ornaments

Appleton, Maine

The back story: Lorraine Coffey started Maine's Natural Inspirations in 2014 as a creative outlet.

“I have always loved nature,” she said. “I started pressings and using the flowers from around my home and town in Appleton, Maine. I began using resin to preserve the flowers and fell in love with the process. Then, I started making ocean scenes in late 2019. I love the ocean and started using my collection of sand, rocks, and shells in the work.”

To make the star ornament,  she starts with 3" x ¼" laser-cut wood star from New England. “I add shells or sand I collect from local Maine beaches,” she said. “I match the resin colors to the background paint I choose.   I love making the star and Maine-shaped ornaments. The color combinations are truly unique and allow each piece to be one of kind, which adds to the handmade process.”

Cost: $9.50 - $9.99 each. The star ornaments can be found in Lisa Marie’s Made in Maine, Freeport Market, in the Freeport Village Station, Bonnie's Place in Rockport, Maine Artisans in Lincolnville Beach, or through her Etsy store.

In her words: “It’s truly amazing to me that ornaments I have made are decorating trees around the country. I hope to have a piece of Maine in every state.”

Handmade candles with personalized boat names

Brunswick, Maine

The back story: Marybeth Poulin began making candles alongside her father when she was a little girl.

“I remember helping my dad wick the molds and deciding on colors and scents,” she said. “We had a lot of fun! It was me and him, a special time together considering that I had three older brothers.”

Over the years, Marybeth made candles for family and friends. It was when she became an empty-nester and had more time on her hands, she decided to start a business. “There are a lot of candles for sale, so I had to think of a way to have mine stand out. I decided to make customized candles that I design and create, with a label unique to each candle.

Customers can choose the scent and color as well.” Each candle tin is eight ounces and beyond boat names, Marybeth can customize labels for anniversaries, birthdays, weddings, gender reveal, showers, adoptions, retirement, and graduations.

Cost: $15 each plus shipping. You choose the scent: Fir, Bayberry, Musk, Sandalwood, Cinnamon, or Blueberry. Send Marybeth an email at canlitme@gmail.com.

In her words: “I have made candles for most of my life. It is as enjoyable to make them as it is to burn them. Now I have the added pleasure of making candles for others and knowing that it brings joy to them makes me happy.”

Custom cribbage boards

West Newfield, Maine

The back story: Bekki and Warren Kimball are the father/daughter team that create the cribbage boards at Simply Cribbage. Warren had been making some simple cribbage boards occasionally and was gifted some beautiful cherry burls with the suggestion that they might make some interesting cribbage boards. This gift led to a love of making cribbage boards and a new partnership. The wood used in the boards is from local areas including their own backyard and from several small mills located in the U.S. Bekki designs the boards and does the resin pouring while Warren drills out the holes with his drill press.

Cost: $30 to $110. Find them on Etsy

In their words: “So many people have told us about the great memories they have of their parents or grandparents teaching them how to play cribbage. We love listening to them talk about how much they enjoyed those moments with their family. That is probably one of our favorite parts about selling cribbage boards is we get to be a small part of the future moments that people have with their family and friends."  

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

Whether it’s scouring for events that give you a respite from the holiday madness or finding things to plunge you into the holiday madness, we’ve got it covered this week.

The “Best Of” Christmas by the Sea

Friday, December 3 through Sunday, December 5 —Midcoast

As followers of this weekly spotlight know, I tend to pick events for the 21+ crowd. Get in the holiday spirit Friday night with a little nosh and sip in Camden with The Vintage Room’s chef Andrea Barbour and mixologist Megan Welms for holiday-crafted cocktails and complimentary hors d’oeuvres while Andrea shares tips and tricks to make your holiday party a success. Open to the public from 4 to 7 p.m.  FMI: The Vintage Room

Just when you’ve had your fill, come out for the 6 p.m. Christmas by the sea parade at 6 p.m. along Union Street to Atlantic Avenue. On Saturday, there’ll be a holiday craft fair with Midcoast artisans at the First Congregational Church (55 Elm Street, Camden) from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.The Nutcracker plays at the Camden Opera House at 3 p.m. on both Saturday and Sunday Tickets $15/adults. FMI: Camden Opera House 

Join the Bonfire on the Beach at Lincolnville Beach on Saturday at 3:30 p.m. At 6 p.m. it’s back to Camden’s Bay Vie Hotel for adult cocktails and cookies in the Curtis-Bok room from 6 to 8 p.m.

Living for Drag with Priscilla Poppycock

Sunday, December 5— Bangor

The Bangor Arts Exchange is hosting the world premiere musical “The Making of a Queen” which will “have you laughing, crying, drinking, and dancing as this queen reminisces about her journey to the throne and how she learned the most important lesson: Save a little love for yourself, don’t you dare give it all away.” Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Show starts at 6 p.m. All patrons must show proof of vaccination or a negative COVID test within the past 72 hours in order to enter and attend. Tickets: Advance/$21; Door/$25. FMI: Bangorartsexchange.org

Get a Breath of Fresh Air with a Forest Bathing Walk

Sunday, December 5—Freeport

This month is sometimes too much—just, too much to do, too much to get ready for. Sometimes, you just need to unplug and drop out for a few hours. Hughes Kraft, a Certified Nature Forest Therapy Guide, is partnering with Pineland Farms in New Gloucester near Gray, Maine to go for a forest bathing walk “to explore the relationship between the humans and the more than human world surrounding us” from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Location: Education Barn. Fee: $20.00 per person
(Adult program, open to ages 18 years and up) Pre-registration required. FMI: Pineland Farms

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

ROCKPORT—Farmer Mary Nelson née Clayton and her husband, Tom, recently bought the nearly 40-year-old Cardinal Cove Mini Golf Center and an adjacent house with big plans for its future.

The first floor of the house, on Commercial Street in Rockport, which used to be an arcade, has turned into a small retail space for Nelson’s natural-made products called Bee Wild Farmacy. She just held her grand opening Sunday, November 21.

Having grown up in Rockland, Nelson moved to central New York for a decade to run a pastured meat farm. Now back in Maine, she has her sights set on charting a different course with her husband while still using all of the skills she’d acquired as a farmer—a golf course, that is.

The mini-golf course, where Nelson remembers playing as a nine-year-old child, will remain the same—with a natural twist.

“I’ve always been fascinated with wild plants and foraging,” she said. “ I grow a lot of edible, medicinal, and culinary plants, so the spaces in between the golf course will be landscaped with those types of plants with signs identifying their uses.”

The picnic tables in the center of the golf course function as an agritourism open-air workshop space.

“We did a natural dyes workshop in that space this past summer,” she said, “And we’ll be hosting more classes and events like that in the future.”

In addition, she and her husband plan to put a couple of campers on the property as rentals.

“The plan is to offer an agritourism center with a mini-golf course right in the middle of it,” said Nelson. “It’s a little bit of everything—you know, it’s Maine; everyone’s got to hustle.”

Every item in her shop is made by Nelson under the brand Bee Wild. In addition to raising chickens and selling the eggs on-site, she’s also a beekeeper and makes numerous products such as herbal teas, balms, salves, elixirs, and tinctures with her foraged products and natural honey. Hand-knit items, made also by Nelson, are available.

“I forage as many ingredients as I can or they are grown,” she said.

As she still owns the farm in central New York, with two markets in New York still run by her business partner, and is now operating Bee Wild Farmacy full-time, and with eight children between Nelson and her husband, she said she is trying to be cautious about not over-extending herself.

“My husband says when I die, my tombstone will read, ‘I have another idea!’”

The Bee Wild Farmacy at 773 Commercial Street in Rockport, will be open year-round. Through winter, hours will be Monday through Friday, 10 a.m to 2 p.m. daily. Evenings, weekends and off-hours are available in person. Online orders, shipping, and local delivery are also options. Visit: www.beewild.me

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

ROCKLAND—For Midcoast history buffs, a new Family History Center built into the lower level of the Rockland Public Library is sure to be a treasure trove. Spearheaded by the Rockland Historical Society, which has rooms adjacent on the lower floor of the library, the room is filled with shelves of old Courier-Gazette negatives, boxes of old photos from photographer Jim Moore, who worked for the Courier-Gazette and The Portland Press Herald, as well as bound volumes of the Courier Gazette along the back wall, which are the morgue of the Courier Gazette from 2000 through 2017.

“For those years, [Courier-Gazette] stopped paying to have the newspapers converted into microfilm,” said Rockland Historical Society curator Ann Morris of the newspaper collection. “So, these are the only copies of newspapers during those years in existence and they asked if we could store them here.”

Currently, five students from Oceanside High School are using the room for a special project designed to collect oral histories and research the histories of old buildings and industries that have disappeared from Rockland’s economy. Working with retired college professor Steve Merriam, the students are engaged in piecing together written newspaper accounts with oral histories of local residents.

“We are working with high school juniors and seniors once a week and our focus is on oral histories and on industries that are rapidly fading,” said Merriam. “The two research interests they have are on the NSKK motorcycle club in Rockland in the 1970s and the earliest media around the Maine Lobster Festival. We’ve uncovered some 1964 footage of the Lobster Festival and will be working on a project with that this week.”

“Two weeks ago, we invited four Rockland residents who lived here in the 1970s and the students asked them questions, collected oral histories, and learned about the context for the motorcycle gangs,” he said.

When complete, these stories will be published on a student-created website.

“Our job through the Rockland Historical Society and the Family Center is to provide resources for students to engage their imaginations,” said Merriam.

Pen Bay Pilot will be doing a series of stories on the students’ history projects brought–to-life in the coming months, so stay tuned.

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

Buckle up Piloteers, we’re in for about a month of holiday-themed events, starting this weekend, so I’ll do my best to find the most entertaining things to do for locals as well as for friends and family visiting. Time for a complete recharge!

Tropical Skate Night

Friday, November 26 —Rockport

Get ready to shoot the duck in a pair of roller skates post-Turkey Day (if you can squat down that far). Mid-Coast Rec Center is hosting Tropical Skate Night with special guest DJ Jim. Recommended time for adults is 8:00 to 9:30 p.m. The cost is $10/person, Rentals included! Pre-Registration is required by calling (207) 236-9400 or going to www.midcoastrec.org and clicking online registration.

Rockland Festival of Lights & Menorah Lighting

Saturday, November 27 & Saturday, November 28— Rockland

Thanks to the pandemic, the annual Festival of Lights has pared down from an entire weekend to one day. But, for those who love that small-town holiday spirit, but there’s also some fun to be had for the big kids and our out-of-state visitors.  Rockland Main Street will be kicking off a parade downtown at 5 p.m. and the official lighting of the iconic Lobster Trap Tree will take place at 6 p.m. as downtown shops gear up for Shop Small Saturday. On Sunday at 5 p.m, there will be a lighting of the Menorah for the first night of Hannukah. (And stay tuned for the following weekend for a Hannukah party at Harbor Park on December 4 at 4:30 p.m.) FMI: Festival of Lights

Three Shop Small/Shop Local Events

Saturday, November 27—Rockport & Rockland

This weekend marks the Shop Small/Shop Local Saturday and given how much inflation has impacted the average Mainer, let’s do our best to give the artists and crafters our business this season! The Rockland Elks Lodge is holding their annual Festival of Lights Craft Show on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. with 40 local artisans, crafters, and artists and a suggested $2 donation. FMI: Details

The American Legion Craft Fair is also taking place in Rockland on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. FMI: Details

Guini Ridge Farm in Rockport is also having its annual Christmas Market on Saturday featuring local artisans, crafters, and bakers for the perfect locally made holiday gifts from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. FMI: Details

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

ROCKPORT—Sometimes you just want to say things you can’t out loud. Liz Polkinghorn, a knitter, understands that need, and designs the type of hat that ”allows you to put all the things you'd like to say out loud, but sometimes just can’t, onto your hat instead.”

Her hand-knitted hats have become a home business called Bespolk Hats. It can sometimes take a whole day to custom create with 100 percent wool and pom poms of real fur, faux fur or cotton. And her biggest seller is a word you can’t say on TV.

Polkinghorn, who grew up in Maine, moved to California for a spell, before returning home to Maine in 1998.

“One winter day, I opened the front door and realized how cold it was, so I started making hats that stated one of the first expletives that came out of my mouth,” she said. “Remarkably, people loved them. I never actually wore one, because I thought I might get accosted.”

The “S—” hats have been her most popular seller. But her other hats are family-friendly with such sayings as “Maine,” “Ski,”and “Merry.”

Still, it’s easy to see Polkinghorn’s ideology through her other popular hats such as “Vote,” “Resist,” and “RBG.”

“During the Trump years, that was a heyday for phrases,” she said.

She'll make whatever the customer wants, whether it’s a child’s name on the hat, or as one customer on Vinalhaven wanted: “Salty B—–.”

“I’ve had some really rude ones that I’m not even going to say,” said Polkinghorn. “I don’t know how they wear them, frankly.”

For those who are not keen on wearing a hat that swears, she has another one, which is just as snarky: “Calm Down.”

That’s funny — just calm down, all you pearl clutchers.

“My daughter used to be an editor at The New York Times and she’d wear one I made called ‘Fake News,’” said Polkinghorn.

As a microbusiness in Maine, she works when she gets orders, but doesn’t want to mass-produce her wares. Each hat is custom-made. She was excited to get her hats in a store in Rockefeller Center in New York, but as she said: “It’s not brain surgery; it’s just me, sitting in a La-Z-Boy chair knitting. But it’s fun to personalize sayings that people want.”

“The fun thing is it’s something different every day,” she said. “It’s like making a painting every day.”

For more information visit her website and Instagram.

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

CAMDEN—The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree. In this case, the tree is Cynthia Trone, a long-time resident of Camden and the apple is her son, Jackson Berger, whose Oregon-based outdoor clothing store, Symmetree, has now branched out to become Trone’s retail shop on Bay View Street that goes by the name Symmetree Base Camp.

Trone, who used to manage the former location of The Grasshopper Shop when it was on Bay View Street in the 1980s, has come full circle, back to her retail roots.

The original Symmetree store, in fact, was a home furnishings and accessories business that Trone and her former husband, Denis Berger, owned when their son, Jackson, was a baby after the family moved to Burlington, Vermont.

“Jackson really wanted to honor that original name his dad and I created with own his business, and now, it’s back to being my business name, again,” said Trone.

Jackson, who is a graphic designer and an avid outdoors person, runs the Oregon-based Symmetree with his partner, Skye Rainey.

The Oregon online business sells apparel of his own design while the Camden Symmetree Base Camp sells Jackson’s and Skye’s original T-shirts, long-sleeve shirts, sweatshirts, hats, and other apparel. The store also offers environmental books, as well as outdoor gear, such as recycled plastic hammocks and blankets.

Trone’s vision of the Camden-based store reflects her dedication to Buddhism with one corner of the store dedicated to meditation books and pillows.

“We call it ‘Provisions for the Conscious Explorer,” said Trone of the store’s ethos, adding, “The thing I’m most excited about with both companies is that for each product we sell, we plant eight trees through Eden Reforestation.”

Jackson, who was born in Maine, moved out west as an adult to pursue his dreams.

“We have a whole new line of Maine-themed apparel coming that Jackson designed,” said Trone.

The store is a family business with Trone’s youngest daughter, Hadley Berger, serving as her social media manager and Kayla Berger helping with bookkeeping.

The back of the store has been converted to a meditation studio, which Trone will be co-facilitating, and opening to the public.

“I got my master’s degree in mindfulness studies when I was 57, so this store really reflects my interests,” she said.

Trone was the liaison to bring seven Tibetan refugee Buddhist Monks to the Midcoast on a Sacred Arts educational tour in 2019 before the pandemic hit.

The official opening of the store November 26 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily (closed Mondays) and will continue to be open year-round.

For more information visit Symmetree Base Camp at the website and on Instagram (@symmetreemaine).

Correction: This article originally stated that The Cashmere Goat, which previously occupied this space, moved, due to economic pressure brought on by the pandemic. That was incorrect. The Cashmere Goat is located at 21 Mechanic Street in Camden.

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

We’re heading into the crest of a wild weekend, the calm before the storm (literally) next week with storms coming in ahead of Thanksgiving. So, enjoy music from some talented sisters, a magical fantasy ride, a bountiful fall harvest, and a new business opening. I told you it’d be wild.

The Wolff Sisters

Friday, November 19—Camden

Boston-based sisters Rebecca, Rachael, and Kat Wolff are coming to the Camden Opera House. Just named New England Music Awards' 2021 Americana Artist of the Year, the trio’s music “is honest and genre-defying, but still rooted in traditional rock and Americana storytelling,” according to their website.  Here’s a song about Boston they perform called “Boston Town.” Doors open at 7 p.m. and the show starts at 7:30 p.m. Choose-your-own reserved tickets are $20 in advance, $26 day of show.FMI: Tickets

Garden Aglow

Saturday, November 20 & Sunday, November 21—Boothbay

It is TOO EARLY to be posting any Christmas events but Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens gets a pass because their annual Gardens Aglow is beyond Christmasy; it’s what Lisa Kristoff calls “A magical ride into fantasy.”  The Covid-19 virus changed what used to be a walking tour into a driving tour, but that’s a good thing. As Kristoff said, “we’re all in need of a beautiful distraction.” Arrival times are every 15 minutes, from 4:30 to 8:30 p.m., Thurs.-Sun. $40 per nonmember car/$30 per member car. Advance tickets are required. FMI: Tickets and Details

Killer Road Trip: Maine Harvest Festival

Saturday, November 20 & Sunday, November 21—Bangor

Head on up to Bangor to the Cross Insurance Center this weekend for a fall harvest with more than 55 Maine farmers, festival food producers, live music, samples from breweries and wineries from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Here’s the Schedule. General admission tickets are $8.00. FMI: Tickets and Details

New business open house—Bee Wild Farmacy

Sunday, November 21—Rockport

Come check out and support a new business in Rockport, Bee Wild Farmacy, run by Mary Nelson.  Think: Handmade, local, small-batch, wild-crafted items. Come sample products, ask questions, get discounts, and enter into drawings. The event takes place at the new store at 773 Commercial Street Rockport from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and stay tuned for a follow up story from yours truly. FMI: Details

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

We have a few interesting happenings on deck this weekend with another adapted musical, some food and drink tastings, an artistic craft fair, and some wild and scenic films for your enjoyment.

Rent: School Edition

Friday, November 12 through Sunday, November 14—Belfast

Last weekend Camden Hills High School was the star player of the high school musical—this weekend it’s the Belfast Area High School’s turn. This weekend kicks off its fall musical - Rent: School Edition from November 12 to 21. Fridays/Saturdays at 7:00 p.m., Sundays at 2:00 p.m. Tickets $5 adults, $3 students; they can be purchased at the school at Lion’s Way in Belfast. Masks required. FMI: Details

Pope Memorial Humane Society Tasting Event

Saturday, November 13—Thomaston

The Pope Memorial Humane Society’s cookbook, Recipes to the Rescue is the theme of this tasting event to benefit the animals they shelter. From 1 to 3 p.m. walk around and sample bites at a minimum of 10 tasting stations with small portions/one-bite tastes straight from the cookbook. The tasting event is limited to 50 people so best to get your tickets early here or call the shelter 207-594-2200 to check first. No walk-ins. 

Rockland Elks Holiday Craft Fair

Saturday, November 13—Rockland

If you’ve never been to a local craft fair, here’s one check out at the Rockland Emblem Club at 210 Rankin Street. The most interesting people making the most interesting stuff you can’t find anywhere else is its real appeal, as seen in such past stories as this and this.  Starting at 9 a.m. and going to 2 p.m., this craft fair features more than 40 tables of crafts from local artisans. The kitchen will be open for lunch as well as a bake table with homemade pies, cookies, candies and fudges. FMI: Details.

Three wild and scenic films to catch

Sunday, November 14—Virtual

The Midcoast Conservancy and Coastal Mountains Land Trust are hosting a live, virtual event to screen eight films that will appeal to outdoor lovers and environmentalists from 4 to 6 p.m. I just did a write-up on three not-to-miss films a story this week. Pictured above: “24 Leeches,” a “tribute to a father’s best friend and adventure partner, his 10-year-old son.”  Ticket holders will have access to the films online five days after the festival starts. FMI: Tickets

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

SEARSPORT—Just five minutes over the Belfast bridge heading north on Route 1 sits the newly opened Rio’s Spiked Café, a European-style tapas bar and eatery. Owners Oana and Russell Manton who also own the adjoining business park, were avid worldwide travelers before the pandemic put a halt to their adventures. Self-described foodies, the couple decided if they couldn’t go to Europe to sample the food at the present time, they’d instead, bring Europe to Maine.

RIO is the combined initials of Russell, their seven-year-old daughter Ilinca, and Oana. And spiked, well, it’s a play on the type of drinks the café serves, from a cultivated European wine list to specialty coffees with a kick.

Previously a garage, the renovation took more than three years to remodel the premises into a warm, inviting, and socially-distanced restaurant with HEPA air filters embedded in the demi-walls beside every table.

With oversized retro light bulbs casting a soft glow upon the room, its focal point is a modernist fireplace built into the prominent stone wall in the center of the room, which also serves as a bar with custom epoxy counters. Out in the parking lot sits an electric charging station for diners who want to grab a bite while waiting for their car to charge.

“Every time we went out to eat abroad, we’d take pictures of what we loved and brought all of these elements back to the design of the café,” said Oana. “The whole restaurant was built with the Midcoast community in mind. We want to bring a little taste of Europe to the area as people still cannot travel as much.”

Patrons of the Lincolnville Pound will remember Sullivan, who formerly served as the Lincolnville Pound's bar manager. Having built out the place with Russell, Sullivan has now settled back into his role of manager. His love of Maine craft brews has transferred to Rio’s Spiked Café with a wide array of both European beers and some of Maine’s beers. He also serves as a mixologist for their cocktails. Happy hour with drink specials is offered from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. nightly.

The menu

Oana, who is Romanian, and Russell, who is Scottish, have taken culinary elements from their culture, working with Chef Timothy Churchill, who is formally trained in Italian cuisine. Together, they’ve created an inviting small plates menu with a charcuterie board for two, infusing meats and cheeses from Maine, Vermont, Spain, Italy and Austria. 

The most-popular dishes coming out of the kitchen have been their grilled flat iron steak sourced from Pineland Farms, with grilled cippolini onions, balsamic butter, and jus of local veal. Another hit has been the pan-roasted Scottish salmon with a toasted hazelnut and coffee bean cream sauce. 

“Coffee actually pairs well with fish,” Churchill said. “With everything I create, I try to strike a balance between the classic and my own twist. And keeping everything seasonal is always on my mind.”

Harkening back to Oana’s own favorite dish is the “Mici,” (pronounced “Mitch”) is a traditional Romanian skinless grilled sausage made from beef, lamb, and pork with a housemade spicy mustard.

The raw salads on the menu are Chef Churchill’s special forté, such as the Sweet Autumn Salad with a local Honey Crisp apple, fig, olive, sherry, and mascarpone.

“I think for most restaurants, the raw salad is the most neglected item in a restaurant,” said Churchill. “Our salads are a strong point to the menu.”

While word of mouth has largely driven diners to the new eatery, the owners are keen to keep the feel of the place homey and local.

“At the same time, we don’t want to be known as a high-end fine dining establishment,” said Oana, who emphasizes that their vision of the place is more of a neighborhood tapas bar.

Searsport, not known for its culinary scene, is gaining a little gem with this cafe. Early reviews on Rio’s Spiked Café on since they opened October 6 put it in the good-to-excellent category with one patron calling it a “delightful surprise,” adding its merits included the description: “Beautiful bars, fireplaces, lighting—elegant and yet cozy.”

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

The 2021 Wild and Scenic Film Festival is coming to the Midcoast on November 14, 2021. Midcoast Conservancy and Coastal Mountains Land Trust are hosting this live, virtual event to screen eight films that cover a broad range of topics and address issues from climate change to rare birds and orchids to finding common ground among tribes, ranchers, and government agencies. 

For nature lovers and environmental activists alike, this festival, which is a fundraiser for the South Yuba River Citizens League (SYRCL), is typically held in California, but, like many festivals responding to the continuing pandemic, the Wild and Scenic Festival has gone completely virtual.

Three not-to-miss films that members of the film festival committee have chosen to highlight include:

Here we go, the last week of sunshine before Daylight Savings time plunges us back into the Dark Ages. To get your head around something different and creative, check out a few of our Spotlight events happening this weekend.

Free live stream of sold-out show: Honey In the Heart

Friday, November 5—Online

All ages-all skills free Artlab at CMCA

Saturday, November 6—Rockland

You’ve got a whole winter in front of you—now what are you going to do? Get creative. Get inspired. Begin making art even if you don’t know how to start with The Center for Maine Contemporary Art’s free “Artlab” held at their facilities at 21 Winter Street. From 2 to 4 p.m., artist Alexis Iammarino will be leading the workshop to encourage people to explore sculptural art forms with an array of cardboard that can be printed at stamps, collagraph plates, mobiles, or wall hangings. Participants can even check out the museum’s “Spatial Relations” for inspiration. FMI: CMCA

“Spamalot” at CHRHS

Friday, November 5 & Saturday, November  6—Camden

Who has two thumbs and loves Monty Python? This girl. If you’re a Python fan as well, check out the Camden Hills Regional High School’s production of Spamalot: The School edition in the Strom Theater, a family show that kicks off this weekend at 7 p.m. and continues on November 12 and 13 (with a family show on November 10 at 6 p.m.) After a year of having no musicals, the students are back, better than ever,  to provide a wacky performance that should please everyone. Tickets must be purchased in advance. FMI: Tickets and details.

Killer Road Trip: Crunk Witch in Bangor

Saturday, November 6—Bangor

I promise this has nothing to do with Halloween. Now that the tourism season has wound down, it would be a great weekend for a Bangor getaway and Crunk Witch, a husband-wife electronic pop act from Presque Isle is playing at the Bangor Arts Exchange from 8 to 11 p.m. Called “One of the best bands from Maine” by Paste Magazine and “The most energetic live show I’ve seen in years” by DC Underground, Crunk Witch blends nerdy, positive, and romantic lyrics with a heavy electro-pop backing. Tickets start at $12. FMI: Event and Tickets.

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

CAMDEN—For the last decade, the residents of Camden and Pearl Street organizers have put together candy drives and a spooktacular presence for Halloween, drawing approximately 1,000 parents and kids from neighboring towns to come trick-or-treating, as PenBay Pilot reporters have covered over the years in galleries such as this and this.

Last October 2020, the COVID-19 virus put the organizers in a tough position and they had to cancel the annual tradition for practical reasons as the state had still been under a Stage 4 plan of physical distancing to reduce possible viral infections at a time when vaccinations were still not available. 

In a press release sent to PenBayPilot October 2020, the organizers explained: “Sadly, we are not going to be having trick-or-treating as usual on Pearl Street, in Camden. We’ve talked with the Select Board and everyone is in agreement that there is no safe way to do it.”

According to an anonymous source, what the organizers did not expect is the degree of vitriolic backlash online because certain citizens weren’t able to come trick-or-treating in Camden.

This year, said the source, “If you can walk from home reasonably that seems to be what they’re OK with. Keep it in the neighborhood. There are several homes with people in their 80s and 90s and they don’t want to risk anything. They want it to be what it would be if there were no cars. Maybe 50 to 100 kids as opposed to 800 to 1000.”

Other streets in Camden will be open.

Police Chief Randy Gagne reiterated: “The Camden Police Department will NOT be closing any streets in Camden for Halloween. Officers will be on patrol throughout the Town. We urge all those participants take all safety precautions.”

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

2020 was the year Halloween got canceled, much like everything else, but this year, it has roared back to life. Unfortunately, one of Midcoast’s biggest Halloween attractions, Fright at The Fort is not planning to run again this year. However, in the weeks leading up to October 31, we have combed through every cool event going on to bring you a comprehensive rundown of Halloween-themed events. From parties to art, from poetry to theater, we’ve color-coded these events for adults and parents, and kids to make finding them easier.

Friday, October 22

· Adults and Parents and Kids: The Trail of Terror at the Union Fair takes place Friday night and Saturday night (as well as October 29 and 30) from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. each night. $10 per person cash only; recommended for adults and kids 12 and older. FMI: Tickets and details

· Parents and Kids: The Shotwell Drive-in is hosting Hocus Pocus from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. FMI: Tickets and details

· Adults and Parents and Kids: Midcoast Maine Trail of Terror is taking place in Washington this weekend, until Halloween. $10 and starts at 7 p.m. FMI: Tickets and details

· Adults: The Shotwell Drive-in is hosting the Exorcist from 8:30 to 10:30 p.m FMI: Tickets and details

Saturday, October 23

· Adults, Parents and Kids: Ghoulsport: Bucksport is holding a day-long Halloween festival in town starting at 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. with a paranormal parade, food and drink vendors, ghost stories, games, and activities, trunk or treat and a Halloween dance. FMI: Ghoulsport

· Parents and Kids: The Shotwell Drive-in is hosting The Nightmare Before Christmas from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. FMI: Tickets and details

· Adults: The Shotwell Drive-in is hosting Scream from 8:30 to 10:30 p.m FMI: Tickets and details

· Adults: Maine Sport Outfitters is hosting four Maine authors to read spooky sections from their books from 5 to 7 p.m. Authors include E.J. Fechenda, Kevin St. Jarre, Meg North and Katherine Silva. Free.  FMI: Details

Sunday, October 24

· Parents and Kids: Halloween at the Y—Monster Mask Trick or Treat. Hosted by Troy Howard Middle School in Belfast, this is a parking lot socially distanced trick or treat. Admission is free with a canned donation. Trunk set up starts at 1:30 p.m. The event runs from 3 to 5 p.m. FMI: Details

Thursday, October 28

· Adults, Parents and Kids: “The Addams Family” a musical by the Medomak Valley Players will run at Medomak Valley High School October, 28, 29, 30, and November 4, 5, 6 at 7:00 pm. There will also be two matinee performances on October 31 and November 7 at 2:00 pm. A trunk or treat opportunity for patrons to participate in as well as meet the “Addams” characters will be taking place following the Halloween
performance outside in the parking lot for anyone that has purchased a ticket to any of the eight shows. FMI: Details

· Parents and Kids: Spooktacular and Pumpkin Palooza at the Camden Public Library with games, activities, and stories 5 to 7 p.m. FMI: Details

Friday, October 29

· Adults: Halloween Bash at The Grey Owl in Rockland from 8 p.m. to 12 a.m. Cocktails, cash prizes for costumes, and giveaways. $5 cover. FMI: Details

·Adults: Halloween Bash at Threshers Brewing Company in Searsmont, starting at 7 p.m. with a live band, Skyfoot. Tickets: $20. FMI: Details

· Parents and Kids: Halloween Escape Rooms at Kids Unplugged in Belfast. Join the Zombie Attack room, or bring the whole family to the Great Pumpkin Escape room. Starts at 6 p.m. FMI: Tickets and details

· Parents and Kids: Trunk or Treat hosted by Sheperd and Pope Memorial Humane Society (181 New County Road, Rockland) 4 to 7 p.m. FMI: Details

· Parents and Kids: Trunk or Treat hosted by Mathews Brothers Company (22 Perkins Road, Belfast) 4 to 6 p.m. FMI: Details

·Parents and Kids: Trunk or Treat hosted by Fresh Off The Farm (495 Commercial Street, Rockport) 4 to 7 p.m. FMI: Details

Saturday, October 30

· Adults: The Camden Public Library hosts musical instrument creator and sound therapist Jim Doble in the Amphitheatre with dark and incorporate spooky sounds. “This will be a sonic meditation..with a little bit of ‘eerie’ thrown in to help us get in the mood for All Hallows Eve.” Bring a flashlight and something comfortable to sit or lay on.  FMI: Details

· Adults: Three Tides & Marshall Wharf Brewing Co. are holding a dance party in their open-air beer garden starting at 7 p.m. FMI: Details

· Adults: The Front Street Pub in Belfast will be hosting a late-night costumed Halloween party from 8 p.m. to midnight with a $10 cover. There will be outside spaces for social distancing and cash prizes fore best costume categories. FMI: Details

· Adults: Halloween bash at the Midcoast Athletics Center in Warren featuring the live band No Guts, No Glory from 7 to 11 p.m. 21+ event. Prizes for best costume. $20/ticket to preregister online. $25/ticket at the door.  FMI: Details

· Adults, Parents and Kids: Belfast’s Great Pumpkin Pageant with a costume line up at the boat house from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. FMI: Details

Sunday, October 31

· Parents and Kids: Annual Halloween Costume Contest at Lincolnville General Store in Lincolnville. Beginning at 4:30 p.m., photos will be taken in “Grampa Halls” across the street from the store and the winner receives a gift certificate to the store. FMI: Rules and Details

· Parents and Kids: Trunk or Treat hosted by Aldersgate United Methodist Church  (15 Wesley Lane, Rockland) 4 to 6 p.m. FMI: Details

· Parents and Kids: Trick or Treat hosted by Liberty Fire Department handing out candy (187 West Main Street, Liberty) Starts at 4:30 p.m. FMI: Details

· Parents and Kids: Trunk or Treat hosted by the People’s United Methodist Church (Chapel Street, So. Thomaston) from 4 to 5:30 p.m. FMI: Karen Matthews, 594-1458

· Adults, Parents and Kids: The Camden Snow Bowl is doing Halloween chairlift rides from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.  Children 17 and under with costume, free. Adults $10. FMI: Details

Note: More events will be added for the week leading up to Halloween. Check back for more listings to come or email to list your event (Midcoast only).

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

ROCKPORT—The farewell exhibition at the Center for Furniture Craftsmanship for Executive Director and furniture maker Peter Korn includes a mysterious cabinet by Silas Kopf that features the image of a macaw in a cage. It’s magnificently created—as all of the furniture and art pieces out of this gallery tend to be—but it’s also furniture with built-in Easter Eggs and delights. This cabinet has a trompe l’oeil door, mechanical parts, and secret compartments activated by motors. While it’s functional, it’s also a bit like finding a secret passageway and experiencing the childlike surprise as the furniture “squawks back” at you once a door is opened.

Kopf, who lives in Massachusetts, has been part of the Center for Furniture Craftsmanship from the school’s beginnings. With a career that started in 1974, Kopf became friends with Korn who was running a wood program at a school in Colorado. 

“When Peter started his own school here in Maine, I was on his list of people to teach a workshop,” he said. “I taught almost from the beginning and I’d go back to teach every other year. I’ve been back a handful of times in the last 10 years. I’m honored to be part of this last exhibit.”

The Macaw cabinet took longer than normal to construct due to the pandemic.

“I was working with someone in North Carolina to do the electronics because I don’t do that, and when everything halted, that piece was put on hold,” he said. “We finally got together this summer and finished it.”

Though something “goofed up on the electronics” admitted Kopf, the cabinet was still delivered to Maine and will eventually be fixed. Watch the embedded video to see how the piece originally worked.

Kopf’s other fine furniture, which can be viewed on his website, often includes animal imagery, and often in whimsical ways, such as other cabinets featuring parrots and one oval cabinet featuring rabbits chasing a fox called “Bad Hare Day.”

As for Macaw, Kopf said, “I’ve done a bunch of pieces with hidden compartments in them, where you’d push a button and a drawer would slide out. I like the engineering of it—it’s a challenge to make all that stuff work and be relatively hidden.”

The exhibition, according to the release, is Korn’s homage to mentors and peers whose work he greatly admires, whose friendship has enriched his five-decade career, and whose knowledge and participation have contributed to the success of the Center for Furniture Craftsmanship. It presents superlative pieces made by 17 renowned furniture makers, turners, and sculptors between 1965 and 2021.

Follow Kopf’s work on Facebook and Instagram

To learn more about the Center for Furniture Craftsmanship visit their website.

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

Since Halloween is dominating the next two weekends, we’ll soon have a separate official rundown for you. Not especially enthused about Halloween? Don’t worry, we have you covered. For those who prefer their escapades to be a little more down-to-earth as opposed to in the shadows, here’s a small smattering of events to check out this weekend.

BYOB: Bring Your Own Brain

Friday, October 22—Orono

The UMaine Orono campus is offering a night that promises “a fun, collaborative experience where aspiring entrepreneurs, designers, creative thinkers, and engineers come together to produce a viable startup business model in just one night.” The free event, starting at 6 p.m. asks you to bring your smarts and a laptop and be part of a team that comes up with the winning idea. They’ll provide food and caffeine, expert guidance, and you might get $2,000 in prize money for the top teams. FMI: Directions and Info

Pup-Up: Shop for a Paws Cause

Saturday, October 23—Thomaston

Animal lovers, this event is for you! Pope Memorial Humane Society is throwing a pup-up (translation pop-up event with punny spelling) at their location 25 Buttermilk Lane from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.  There will be deep discounts on books, artwork,  home items, as well as everyday pet essentials with 100 percent of the proceeds going toward making a better life for the pets. FMI: Pope Memorial Pup-Up

Drag Queen Trivia Brunch

Sunday, October 24—Hallowell

Hallowell is one of those off-the-radar towns that have a great buzz and this Sunday, come to The Quarry Tap Room from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. for a fun drag trivia event with brunch and entertainment included. Chartreuse and Ophelia Johnson will be performing for this ticketed event. Proceeds to benefit Hallowell Pride Alliance. FMI: Tickets and Info

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

THOMASTON—Locally sourced, delicious food—that’s the Maine way—and entrepreneurs Tai Leavitt and Darren Albers are using the state’s area code as their Maine brand in their latest food truck venture, 207 Eats.

207 Eats has used the late summer and early fall as their launchpad for a soft opening. Operations are currently on hiatus while Albers is traveling and 207 Eats plans to re-open Monday, November 1.

Located in Thomaston, near the Rockland town line (218 New County Road —Route 1) close to another local food truck Zack Shack, the food truck will make its temporary home at this location into December, weather permitting, before relocating to Rockport in Spring 2022.

The heart of 207 Eats’ menu is based on the seasonality of food.

“We’ve made all kinds of connections with Maine farms,” Leavitt said. “Even though we’re open a little later in the fall, we’re doing what we can to buy directly from farms. We also buy meat from Curtis Custom Meats in Warren. And of course, by next summer, we’ll have all kinds of options.”

On the typical menu, which changes week to week, one might find tacos, quesadillas, grilled cheese sandwiches for the kids, Reubens with Morse’s Saurerkraut, BBQ pulled pork, cheesesteaks, homemade meatball subs, and freshly made desserts.

207 Eats also makes good use of locally caught seafood with crabmeat rolls, haddock sandwiches, chowders, with lobster dishes on the menu for next spring.

Leavitt said that popular items have included their housemade Caesar Salad, pulled pork, and sausage rolls, while vegetarian options are in the works.

Leavitt, who grew up in Camden, has lived in California for the past two decades, working as a chef while also cooking for high-end catering companies in San Francisco. A couple of years ago, Leavitt moved back to the Midcoast to be closer to family.

“I’m happily back in Maine,” Leavitt said.

Leavitt and Albers’s personal interest in philanthropy has extended to 207 Eats business practices.  As such 207 Eats reserves 50 percent of all tips for community charities with the other 50 percent going to their workers. Their first donation went to the Thomaston Food Pantry.’

“I’ve always had a soft spot for animal rescue organizations and women’s support groups,” said Leavitt. “We’re here to do good in the world.”

When the food truck re-opens on November 1, Leavitt said the menu will veer into more “winter comfort food” territory, such as stews, chilis, soups, pot pies, and Shepherd's pie. These items will be offered hot or properly chilled and packaged to be warmed later at home. And they may venture into starting breakfast as well starting from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m.

Stay on top of 207 Eats re-opening and changing menu by following them on:

Facebook: @207EATSfoodtruck
Instagram: @207eatsfoodtruck
Tiktok: @207eatsfoodtruck

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

Peak foliage hits the Midcoast this weekend, according to MaineFoliage.com, and that’s the best reason to do a leaf-peeping, apple-picking road trip, or a chairlift ride from The Camden Snow Bowl. And, as we’re leading up to Samhain, PenBay Pilot has three under-the-radar spooky family-friendly events and a fall festival killer road trip to make it the best weekend ever!

Halloween Trail of Terror

Friday, October 15 & Saturday, October 16—Union

Every fall, the Union Fairgrounds morph into the award-winning Trail of Terror, ideal for kids 12 and older as well as adults. Get ready to walk outdoors around barns and trails at the Fair, just off Route 17 as costumed volunteers make their presence known. (Pro-tip: for safety’s sake don’t touch or punch the volunteers! And do not dress up in costume yourself.) Each night starts at 6:30 p.m. and goes to 8:30 p.m. Tickets are cash-only and $10 per person or can be purchased in advance by calling 207-470-7401.  The Trail of Terror continues October 22, 23, 29, and 30. FMI: Trail of Terror Facebook Page

Twilight Tours

Friday, October 15—Searsport

Penobscot Marine Museum is offering a walking “ghost tour” for this family-friendly event. “Meet the spirits of those lost at sea – a ghost ship, a waterspout, Confederates, yellow fever, and a menagerie at the bottom of the ocean are just a few of the plots visitors will encounter on Twilight Tours,” says the intriguing description. Volunteer actors stationed in entranceways and other locations throughout our three-acre campus will be the ghostly presence as they tell stories. Tickets are $20, which cover the whole family (up to 10 people) and are timed to start every 10 minutes. FMI and Tickets: Twilight Tours

Something Wicked This Way Comes

Saturday, October 16—Thomaston

If you’re a fan of Ray Bradbury’s novel of the same name, Something Wicked This Way Comes will be a literary and theater treat, an event hosted by the Watts Hall Community Players at the gazebo in Thomaston Green. There will be two shows at 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. with spooky skits, singing, dancing, and tunes from a local band, Miners Creek. Bring your own seating or hang out on the provided haybales. If it rains, the show will take place on Sunday instead and if the weather is bad both nights, the performances will move inside to Watts Hall (proof of Covid-19 vaccination will be required indoors). The Thomaston Green can be found on Main Street between the Prison Showroom and Doug’s Seafood. FMI: Watts Hall Community Players Facebook page

Killer Road Trip: Windswept Gardens Fall Festival

Saturday, October 16—Bangor

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

CAMDEN—Betty Forever, the garage bar and art studio in Camden, which had to close during the pandemic, has recently had a streak of good luck.

Now re-opened by Daiva Deupree, an actor and Betty Forever’s bartender, the boutique garage bar has been renamed Lucky Betty’s.

It’s a quirky gem in the midst of a tourist town, a combination of high-brow and low-brow, as Deupree describes it. On Instagram, the tagline for the place is: “Cold PBR & fancy olives...Nice wine & corner store roses...Mos Def & John Prine.”

As Deupree describes it: “ Lucky Betty’s is a place where everyone can feel comfortable.”

Deupree had spent the prior decade acting and teaching improv theater to teenagers in New York—but she’s always had a home in Maine. She had been splitting her time going back and forth to New York, doing shows, but began spending more time in Maine by 2018.  When Betty Forever opened in 2019, she became their only bartender.

When the pandemic hit in March, 2020, Deupree saw her entire life and career shift focus.

“I asked myself what was I going to do?” she said.  “I started daydreaming about Betty’s re-opening. And then [Betty Forever co-owner] Molly O’Rourke approached me about taking over and reopening.”

Betty, originally named after artist Betty Woodman, might not be forever, but she’s still going strong.

“The place has its own soul; I didn’t want to change the name because that’s bad luck,” said Deupree. “Molly built a dream I didn’t even know I wanted.”

Because Deupree still has several jobs in Maine, the small place is only open two days a week, Sundays and Tuesdays from 2 to 10 p.m.

With an under-the-radar opening in September, many of Betty’s regulars have started coming back for the unfussy beer, wine, and simple cocktail menu, for the light bar snacks, and for the quiet atmosphere.

The bar and pop-up event space offers seasoned mixed nuts, pretzel nuggets, “Hell’s Kitchen” deviled eggs, and a farmer’s market meat and cheese plate as the bar bites.

“I really want to get tater tots on the menu,” she said.

“The 2 p.m. is a very local crowd, but I’ve had a lot of people wander in,” she said. “And then I do have a younger crowd who comes in later around 8:30 p.m. We project the Sunday football games on the wall or screen old movies and eventually, I may do separate art or entertainment-related pop up nights.”

Follow Lucky Betty’s through their Instagram page.

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

‘Tis the season where everyone leaves the house looking like Han Solo. Skinny jeans tucked into Frye boots. Check. A black puffy vest over a white or cream V-neck shirt. Check. A blaster tucked into a holster. Mmm, too much. In any case, we bring you the best of quintessential Maine in October with cider and cheese tastings, vintage horror movies at a brewery and more fall festivals.

The Pour Farm Movie Night: The House on Haunted Hill

Friday, October 8—Union

Like spooky movies in October—but only if there’s a group of people around so you don’t get too scared? Grab a chair, a warm, fuzzy sweater, and a cold beer and settle in for The Pour Farm’s free screening of “The House on Haunted Hill” (1959), the campy, supernatural horror film starring Vincent Price, who invites five people to the house for a sleepover. Whoever stays in the house for one night will earn $10,000. The movie starts at 7 p.m. Admission is free. Seating is first-come, first serve. FMI: The Pour Farm

Killer Road Trip: Cider Tasting

Saturday, October 9—Freedom & Albion

Inland Maine is approaching peak foliage season coming up this weekend and there’s no better way to enjoy it than to take a fall drive to a couple of brand new wineries and cideries we recently profiled. There’s Stone Tree Farm & Cidery in Union, which we did a story on in July. They’re open on the weekends from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Did we mention wine slushies? They have them! The owners are working on a food truck option on the weekends, but encourage people to bring their own picnic or snack. They will also have corn hole and croquet sets on site as well as Cam Jam frisbee. And this past weekend marked the opening day of Freedom’s Edge Cider, only open on Saturdays from 12 to 6 p.m. Check out our recent story.  They offer six rotating taps and an array of lawn games. Click on our stories for more information and directions.

Belfast Chalk Walk & Brew Fest

Saturday, October 9—Belfast

Hanging with the Moonbats is on the agenda this weekend with two cool events. The Chalk Walk Drawing Festival, hosted by Waterfall Arts, takes place in Belfast and Heritage Park with a free community draw and chalk provided from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. And while you’re up there, check out Marshall Wharf’s Belfast Bay Beer Bash at 3 p.m. with the band Ballroom Thieves playing and more than 30 brews on tap. The event doesn’t list tickets, so check at the door.

Boothbay Fall Foliage Festival

Saturday, October 9 and Sunday, October 10—Boothbay

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

ALBION—Right on the border of Freedom, Maine, an old dairy farm converted to an orchard is the site of the newly opened Freedom’s Edge Cider, a cidery and tasting room that opened to the public Saturday, October 2, drawing more than 200 people.

Friends and brothers-in-law Ned Ervin and Andy Kaplan have created this venture pledging a lot of hard work, humor, and a sense of community purpose along the way.

For Ervin, whose family hails from Waterville, creating this business was a natural progression from his longtime hobby as a homebrewer and a hard cider maker. In 2016, while working in New York City, both Ervin and Kaplan decided to leave their hedge fund careers, and move back to Maine for a simpler way of life. Not to say that the physical output of pressing tons of apples and crafting good hard cider is any easier, but for both men, it was a much more satisfying venture they could do with their families and share with the community.

“We were looking for something to do that was well suited to the state of Maine,” said Ervin. “And making cider was a great expression of what Central Maine had to offer. Once we decided to give this idea a go, Andy traveled to upstate New York and immersed himself in a course at Cornell in cider-making.”

Initially, the duo operated out of a tiny garage operation in Belgrade, and in only a few years, has built up their brand to being the best-selling cider in the on-premise segment in Central and Northern Maine. Freedom’s Edge Cider is available on tap or in cans at more than 120 bars in Maine.

The dairy farm they purchased has been converted into an orchard with a 2,000 square-foot producing facility inside a red barn and an outdoor 13 x 50-foot tasting room attached to the barn with a covered overhang.

Last spring, they planted nearly 1,500 apple trees of different varieties. But since the majority of their trees will still take a year or two to produce, Ervin and Kaplan have sourced their apples from nearby orchards in Central Maine, focusing on McIntosh, Cortland, Gala, Northern Spy, Fameuse, Liberty, Baldwin, Dabinett, Newtown Pippin, Spartan, along with some wild seedlings.

Good hard cider depends on a blend of different apples, from dessert apples to bittersweet cider apples.

“They give the cider all of the body, mouthfeel, and tannins, you associate with hard cider,” said Andy. “We’re growing the bittersweet apples because they’re really hard to find in Maine. Almost no one grows them anymore.”

During the week, they work with several presses, using the help of their families and kids, to make their small-batch cider and then age it for four to six months in stainless steel tanks.

Three blends that they offer right now commercially include the Original Blend, a semi-dry, a Redfield Rosé, which is made from a special apple with red flesh, so it comes out pink, and a Sweet Mullet, a cheeky play on a sweeter cider with mulled spice, perfect for the fall.

It’s the perfect time of year to take long drives in the countryside to take in the changing foliage and end up at a tasting room that overlooks the 90 acres of fields, woods, and orchards. But, they’re only open on Saturdays for now.

“We’ll have six rotating taps for people to sample as well as (bottled or canned) ciders people can purchase,” said Kaplan. “Out beyond are a bunch of picnic tables with a fire pit and we’ll have some lawn games such as horseshoes and cornhole as well as cribbage.”

Directions to get to the farm: 420 Quaker Hill Rd in Albion, at the intersection of Barnes Road, about two miles off Route 137.

For more information on Freedom’s Edge Cider, visit their website and Facebook page.

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

LINCOLNVILLE—Fans of Chez Michel Restaurant on Route One were pleasantly surprised to see a new post on the restaurant’s Facebook page after more than a year of inactivity.

The restaurant, which did not reopen the summer of 2020—another casualty of the pandemic—announced on Facebook Friday, October 1, that it is now open and has transformed with a new twist: it’s now called the Beach Inn Market filled to the brim with antiques and collectibles as well as art, and wine from chef/owners Michel Hetuin and Lillian Amborn’s personal collection, amassed over the last 30 years. 

And that’s not all, fans of Michel’s cooking and Lillian’s baking will be overjoyed to learn they are back in the kitchen, whipping up takeout portions of lobster stew, seafood chowder, signature French sauces, dressings, and seasonings, and Lillian’s homemade cheesecakes and desserts. In the back of the restaurant sit boxes of wine, which will also be available until every last bottle is sold.

“I needed to get back into the kitchen,” said Hetuin, who said that retired officially last year, but wanted to still cook. “Each week, we’ll be offering something else, such as crab cakes and Boeuf Bourguignon.”

A cold case, which contained the to-go items, including 50 cups of lobster stew, was nearly cleaned out Friday afternoon by customers with no other advertising of their opening than a brief Facebook post.

The market, which fills the first floor of the restaurant, is an antique-hunter’s dream with an array of art, frog-themed collectibles, original Chez Michel signs, wooden lobster traps, dozens of beer taps collected over the years, and odds and ends.

“We used to get a lot of these things from auctions,” said Hetuin, who said the time had come to sell them.

The Beach Inn Market will only be open for the next four to five weeks on weekends Friday to Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Hetuin and Amborn said that this model works for them for now, but that even in retirement, they like to keep their options open. Chez Michel fans, does that mean there’s a food truck in the future? They’re not saying.

Learn more by visiting Chez Michel Restaurant’s Facebook page.

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

You can always tell who the “Fall People” are by the number of times in the summer they post pumpkin spice recipes, the need for colder weather, and photos of abundant foliage on social media. Well, starting this weekend, those folks should be pretty darn happy because we are officially entering Rocktober, replete with fall festivals, crisp days outdoors, and plenty of art and community gatherings that include music, beer, and pumpkins!

Last Rockland Art Walk of the Season

Friday, October 1—Rockland

Rockland’s Main Street will be closed down on Friday for its last art walk of the season from 5 to 8 p.m. Highlights include free admission at the Farnsworth Art Museum and Center for Maine Contemporary Art, as well as a number of shops staying open for extended hours, and a reception for the new Arts in Action mural on the exterior of the hello hello and Rock City Café building from 5:30 to 6: 15 p.m.

Killer Road Trip: Freeport Fall Festival

Friday, October 1 through Sunday, October 3—Freeport

Head on down to Freeport for the weekend or just for the day to the L.L. Bean campus. There will be more than 175 artists, makers, and food producers as well as live music and free activities for kids. The best part is it’s all free! Here’s a daily schedule of events. And here’s the brochure and vendor map. The event goes all day long; check each day for start/end times.

Belfast Chalk Walk & Brew Fest

Saturday, October 2—Belfast

Hanging with the Moonbats is on the agenda this weekend with two cool events. The Chalk Walk Drawing Festival, hosted by Waterfall Arts, takes place in Belfast and Heritage Park with a free community draw and chalk provided from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. And while you’re up there, check out Marshall Wharf’s Belfast Bay Beer Bash at 3 p.m. with the band Ballroom Thieves playing and more than 30 brews on tap. The event doesn’t list tickets, so check at the door.

Waldoboro Oktoberfest

Saturday, October 2—Waldoboro

Cider Hill Farm, 785 Main Street, in Waldoboro is opening up for a free and family-friendly fest from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. with pumpkin decorating, sack races, hoop shooting, and a puppet show for children. For the adults: barrel races, Nagelbalkan, and beer tray obstacle races. There will also be a variety of games and activities for the whole family including cider pressing, Giant Jenga, cornhole, bocce, and more. Since it is Oktoberfest, it wouldn’t be complete without some German fare, so Morse’s Sauerkraut will be serving up some sausage, sauerkraut, and pretzels and a Biergarten will be on site for 21 and older. FMI: Oktoberfest

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

Can you feel that bite in the morning air? Hard to believe we’re sliding into fall, but with that Hunter’s Moon and the Autumn Equinox this week, there is no mistaking it. This weekend, we keep it hyper-local and take you down the backroads of rural Maine to find some of the coolest happenings going on, along with a free Portuguese film fest and an Oktoberfest.

Cinemar: Portuguese Cinema About The Sea

Friday, September 24 through Sunday, September 26—Online

This weekend online cinema event celebrates short film, animation, documentaries, and workshops of Portuguese cinema in relation to the sea with the support of Rockland's The Apprenticeship. Here is a daily schedule of films and activities. All of the subtitles are in English. Go to breaktheanchor.com and click here to sign up to get a promotional code. Then, you can watch the films on the 24th and 25th for free. Go to the website and click on the button (“Rent $10) and put in your promotional code. The Sunday films will be streaming free on that same website without a promotional code.

Fall for Saturdays Tour

Saturday, September 25—Unity

This day-long event celebrating all of what Unity has to offer starts at 9 a.m. with a farm and artisan fair. At 10 a.m. toddle on over to Stone Tree Farm & Cidery, where I recently did a story, for some wine tastings, fall wine slushies, and the soothing, bluesy music of a friend of mine, Ezra Rugg from 1 to 3 p.m. The winery stays open until 6 p.m. Also at 10 a.m. celebrate National Alpaca Farm Day with Northern Solstice Alpaca Farm by interacting with 41 beautiful alpacas, including this summer's babies. Tours are free. There’s so much more going on—these are just some of the highlights. Check it out! FMI: Fall for Saturdays Tour

Sterlingtown Oktoberfest

Sunday, September 26—Union

Head on over to Union for Sunday Funday with the Sterlingtown Public House for some great Bavarian food, live music, pumpkin carving, seasonal local beer, mulled cider & wine and yard games going from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Stay for the music in the afternoon and evening with The Dapper Gents playing from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. and The Rigometrics playing from 7:30 to 9:00 p.m. FMI: Sterlingtown Public House

Hello Newman at Outback Saloon

Sunday, September 26—Tenants Harbor

I’ve been hearing good things about this out-of-the-way and outdoors saloon outside the Happy Clam on 13-A River Road in Tenants Harbor. A real locals place. Now combine that with Hello Newman, a high-energy Maine alternative rock band whose repertoire covers ‘90s and ‘00 rock, ska, rap, and swing, and you’re looking at a hella good dancing time at 2 p.m. on a Sunday afternoon. FMI: Outback Saloon

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

LINCOLNVILLE—Author and columnist Tom J. Sadowski died June 16, 2021, at his home in Lincolnville. The author of the “Just Saying’” columns for The Free Press had just finished the final copyedited files of the book and sent them back to the publisher the week before he passed away.

For any author to be so close to the goal of publication and not able to complete it, is heartbreaking. Sadowski had the entire manuscript done, copyedited, and ready for print. With the assistance of his wife, Janis Kay, and friends, Sadowski got his final book published posthumously.

His long-time friend Jimmie Froehlich, whom Sadowski met in Alaska, where Froehlich still lives, helped Sadowski pare down some 500 columns to 100 columns for the book.

“Tom and I met and shared a photo and art studio in Anchorage, Alaska in the early ‘80s,” said Froehlich. “We also worked for film and television companies in a variety of capacities. We made a short humorous film about trailer life in Anchorage titled Trailer Court and produced a collection of about 40 satirical black and white postcards making fun of Alaska.”

That shared sense of humor bonded the two friends. “Tom wrote columns about a bewildering array of subjects, most of which he presented in his folksy, yet charming fashion, much like the man himself,” said Froehlich.  “I enjoyed his columns often. When he said he wanted to publish them, he asked me to help him decide which columns to select for a book.  I did so by rereading most of his columns and making comments and suggestions for the book. We spoke often on the phone and sent ideas back and forth over the previous year. I felt flattered that he wanted my opinion.”

“For the most part Tom designed the entire scope of the book himself, which just shows how incredible he was as a person,” said Maine Author Publishing Publishing Coordinator Christina Kosch.

Lincolnville author Elizabeth Hand served as a sounding board for the nuts and bolts of the publishing process. “Janis was the one to spearhead the whole process of getting the book to publication,” said Hand. “All I did is proofread the final galleys to see if there were any typos. When I read the final manuscript it was just perfect—not one error. As an author, it’s the only time I’ve seen that in my career in my own books or anyone else’s.”

“The day Tom told me he mailed that final copyedited galley back to the publisher, it was just a sense of completeness for him,” said Kay. “I’m happy that his readers get to have an actual book in their hands, rather than have to look up one of his past columns. I was happy he had it done.”

“Without those final files, which was exceptionally helpful, it would have been a long time before we would have had something feasible and in our hands,” said Kosch.

Sadowski’s memorial also served as a book launch.

“At his memorial, which was a wonderful moving laughter-and tear-filled event, the books were available for people who’d pre-ordered them and for general sale,” said Hand. “There were so many people who came up to the table where we were selling the books who knew Tom through the columns. Some people who spoke at the memorial who were mentioned in his columns. Tom touched so many people through those columns and with his brilliance, humor, and knowledge. It was wonderful to see how many people were there to pay tribute to him, but also the fact that they could share in this experience with this book.”

Copies of Sadowski's book can be found at The Red Cottage in Lincolnville Center.

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

CAMDEN—The concept is simple—bowls of flavorful plant- and meat-based meals sourced locally.

That’s the concept behind Long Grain’s sister restaurant BOWA at 31 Elm Street in Camden.

Run by business partner and chef Cortney Sukeforth, along with Long Grain partners Paula Palakawong and Bas Nakjaroen, out of the former tiny Long Grain space, the eatery was tailor-made for the kind of takeout model imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The menu is a compilation of around-the-world cuisine with Thai, Cuban, Mexican, Korean, and California flavors which are built in layers: nutritionally dense organic grains, local, organic vegetables, and power salads, topped with either tofu, tempeh or protein.

“Essentially we wanted to include the best of what’s around in terms of ingredients that we could source organically and locally in order to work with our local farmers,” said Sukeforth. “But then the BOWA concept also extended to the cultural side of the flavors we wanted to offer.”

Once people get used to the concept—realizing as one customer did that the Fish Taco dish, made with local fried haddock, didn’t actually come in the form of shelled tacos, but rather, in a power bowl of organic quinoa, red and green cabbage slaw, and romaine lettuce, with all of the fixings—it is easier to understand. These bowls may not look like some of their traditional counterparts, but every bite has the authentic, rich flavors, one has come to expect from that culture’s cuisine. And, one bowl is easily enough food for two people to share.

Sukeforth said that the summer and fall bounty from certified MOFGA farms they source from, such as Dooryard Farm in Camden, Erickson Field from Rockport, and Morning Dew in Damariscotta, is plentiful right now. Come winter, they’ll still try to buy from local greenhouses.

“Even down to our grains, we get all organic grains,” said Sukeforth. “I think it’s always important to know what’s going into your food and that’s what we’re trying to do.”

BOWA has operated fairly under the radar since February 2021, when they first opened. They were experimenting with a total vegetarian and vegan menu at first, along with the takeout model. But, in the last six months, they have adjusted their menu to accommodate meat-eaters. For now, the space is only order-in and in-person take-out, but Sukeforth said she envisions a time when a few indoor tables will be open as the restaurant takes its cue from the ever-changing coronavirus protocols.

“I think people have really enjoyed the option of ordering online,  coming in after work, and picking up different flavored bowls for their family members, so they don’t have to make it at home,” she said.

For more information and to see BOWA’s menu visit BOWA

Kay Stephens can be reached at kaystephenscontent@gmail.com

Lobster rolls, lobster risotto, lobster mac and cheese—this coming week is a lobster lover’s paradise.

With National Lobster Day falling on September 25, Maine’s most celebrated crustacean is on the menu from September 19 – 25 all over the state for Maine Lobster Week.

“We partnered with the organizers of Maine Restaurant Week to create Maine Lobster Week in order to help drive traffic to local restaurants and online lobster shippers as the peak summer season winds down,” said Marianne LaCroix, Executive Director of Maine Lobster Marketing Collaborative. “The week gives tourists and Mainers alike the chance to show their appreciation for local lobstermen and restaurants while enjoying some delicious dishes”

Just like Maine Restaurant Week, more than 45 eateries around the state have customized either a prix fixe three-course menu or a special menu dish that’s affordable to the average customer.

The price of lobster hit unprecedented highs this summer due to the combination of limited supply, high demand, and the reopening of the economy during the coronavirus pandemic, according to the Associated Press. That translated into some Maine stores selling lobster for $17 or $18 a pound and lobster rolls going for the inflated price of $35.

This is a good time of year to eat lobster, according to local lobstermen. The shells on lobster are just starting to harden up, so it’s the best of both worlds with the tenderness and the sweetness of lobster, but more yield—essentially more lobster within the shell.

The Sea Dog in Camden is the only Midcoast restaurant participating in Maine Lobster Week so far; the majority of restaurants are located in and around Portland.

A typical menu for Maine Lobster Week might include:

1st Course - Lobster Bisque
2nd Course - Lobster Fritters
3rd Course- choice of:
Steamed Lobster ($55) or 1.25lb Baked Stuffed Lobster ($65).

That happens to be Boone’s Fish House & Oyster Room in Portland, which also offers additional lobster choices such as a lobster roll, lobster mac & cheese, and a Boone’s Bloody Mary with a Lobster Claw.

With three courses ranging from $45 to $65, this is an economical way to get your lobster fix. Other lobster shacks and restaurants prefer to sell their lobster dishes by the appetizer, entree, or by the lobster roll at a set price.

“We want to promote lobster shacks, diners, or any restaurant that routinely serves lobster to be part of this promotional campaign, so the prix fixe menu doesn’t work for everyone,” said spokesperson Gillian Britt.

Maine Lobster Week isn’t just a boon to restaurants now that the summer season is over, but it also helps the men and women who lobster fish into the fall, providing them and their families with an extra boost of income as the nation continues to navigate a tricky economy during the pandemic.

Britt said restaurants, diners, and lobster shacks that still haven’t joined up yet, still have time to do so, and may register their establishment is free. Just go to the website’s “Register Your Restaurant” link to sign up.

For more information and to see which restaurants in Maine are participating visit: https://mainelobsterweek.com

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

BELFAST—Alissa Grace Clark. Remember her name and beautiful face.

Thirteen-year-old Alissa died May 11 by suicide. Her family said they believe it was a direct causal effect from being relentlessly bullied and cyberbullied from individuals at her school.

Clark’s family does not want Alissa or the tragic circumstances of her death to fade from the public’s mind.

“She was absolutely lively,” said her grandmother Lesa Furbush. “She loved to see people happy. She complimented people all of the time.”

Furbush described a girl who loved to sing.

“She had a tremendous, beautiful voice,” she said.

Her aunt, Lauri Jewett, recalled taking Alissa out on car rides and singing along to the radio with her.

“She liked some of the old-time music; she was brought up on that, but she also liked R&B and Christian music,” said Jewett. “Even if you were having a bad day, she’d do or say something to put a smile on your face. Just a very caring, loving, affectionate girl.”

Alissa was also an avid outdoor person.

“She loved the shore, the ocean, plucking out starfish, and collecting shells,” said Furbush. “She loved to go fishing and deer hunting with her dad. Last year was her first year, and she saw a buck, but was so ecstatic that she had ‘buck fever’—she froze and couldn’t shoot it.”

Furbush struggled to retain her composure when asked what had happened.

“That entire spring season she had been bullied at school,” she said. “Her father was literally on the phone two to five days a week, hollering and screaming to the school about the bullying. And it kept getting swept under the rug; nothing was done about it. It just kept going.”

Furbush said she believed multiple teenagers were involved and that some of the behaviors continued online.

According to Furbush, Alissa’s father became extremely protective around Alissa when it came to the internet.

“She didn’t have a cell phone,” said Furbush. “He stopped allowing her to bring the computer from coming home because of certain things that were happening on the internet. She was only allowed computer use if it were for school use.”

As the case is still ongoing, the family said they could not disclose more information.

Adding to the pain for Furbush and her son, she said is the idea that Alissa’s death will go unnoticed.

“We haven’t heard much from the larger Waldo community,” said Furbush. “There is a sense of shame that is keeping people silenced. I’m angry. We want accountability from the teachers, the students, the police, and the school. There’s no accountability when it comes to bullying.”

In 2012, Maine passed an anti-bullying law requiring all public schools to have a policy against bullying, cyberbullying and harassment that impacts students while at school.

With each incident, the school is required to acknowledge the bullying, respond to the parents of both the bully and the target, and provide remediation, which may include disciplinary actions.  The law also requires schools to report incidents of bullying to the Maine DOE after an investigation has been conducted by the school administration to determine if the allegation of bullying aligns with Maine’s definition of bullying.

“I don’t see where schools are backing this up,” said Furbush.

“It needs to be said and I’m ready to fight,” said Jewett.

“We’re hearing from other parents who knew Alissa or know of the benefit we’re doing for her and telling us that their children are also getting bullied to the point of it being extreme,” said Jewett.

Alissa’s death is reminiscent of another 13-year-old girl, Megan Meier, who died by suicide three weeks before her 14th birthday in 2006.

Megan’s death was spurred on by one of the first known cases of cyberbullying known as an Imposter Website.  Tina Meier, her mother, set up a foundation in Megan’s name the following year to help parents and teachers. Its mission: “To Support and Inspire Actions to End Bullying, Cyberbullying, and Suicide.”

The family is holding an anti-bullying benefit dinner Sunday, September 19, from 1 to 5 p.m. at the Randall Collins VFW, Belfast, which is providing free space for the raffle in addition to donating a brand new LP gas grill to the raffle. There will also be a benefit raffle on October 31 at 1 p.m. at the VFW in order to help pay for Alissa’s funeral expenses.

The father’s side of the family is also hosting a Go Fund Me page to assist with funeral costs.

For more resources on bullying/cyberbullying visit: safekids.com/bullying-cyberbullying-resources/

Certain details were left out of this story at the discretion of members of Alissa’s family.

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

We’ve got a culture overload this weekend with so many things going on between CIFF screenings locally, a couple of killer road trips to see music and to taste new brews, and finally, a reason to chow down on Maine’s most celebrated dish—lobster!

Camden International Film Festival

Friday, September 17 through Sunday, September 19—Midcoast

The best documentaries of the past year are screening at Camden International Film Festival from September 16-26 this year, but this is Weekend Spotlight, so we’ll just focus on the weekend screenings. Here is the schedule for Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. And here are the individual films and Shorts. The festival is divvying up the selections between The Strand Theatre and Journey's End in Rockland as well as the Shotwell Drive-In in Rockport. FMI: Tickets

Live Edge Music Festival

Saturday, September 18—Jefferson

Hidden Valley Nature Center is opening up its thousand-acre preserve to a fun-filled day of live music featuring Maine bands, great local food, and craft beer from 12 to 6 p.m.  Check out the 30 miles of trails for a hike, a mountain bike ride, or a canoe beforehand. Then stick around for Katie Daggett & Ed DesJardin, Sirumem Belly Dance Troupe, 12/OC, Jamie Saft, New Zion Trio and
Primo Cubano. Pro tip: this is a dog-free event. To hear the first band on time, get there 30 minutes before to catch the parking shuttle. General admission is $20. FMI: Tickets

Killer Road Trip: Maine Brew Fest

Saturday, September 18—Sunday River

September seems to be the month for the resurgence of brewfests! Sunday River is hosting one from 1 to 5 p.m. with more than 100 breweries and cideries participating. Go on a scenic chondola ride from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. or do a VIP tasting an hour earlier before everyone else gets in from 1 to 2 p.m. There will be live music with Skosh from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. and fireworks at 8 p.m. For tickets and other info visit: Maine Brew Fest

Maine Lobster Week

Sunday, September 19—Statewide

Maine Lobster Week starting Sunday, September 19 goes through to September 25—which happens to be National Lobster Day. Organized by the same people who put together Maine Restaurant Week, this is a way for lobster shacks, diners, or any restaurant that routinely serves lobster to be part of this promotional campaign and to serve a variety of lobster dishes at a lower price point or in a three-course prix-fixe menu. Not only does it encourage diners to try a dish they’ve never had, but it also helps boost the livelihoods of lobstermen throughout the state. FMI and to see what restaurants are participating visit: https://mainelobsterweek.com

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

CAMDEN—Peanut, a Calico-colored senior cat, had a good life for 15 years until her owner died this year. She landed at PAWS Adoption Center in Camden, where she now lives.

“I believe family members tried to keep her after that, but it wasn’t working out as a long-term solution,” said Tabitha Lowe, PAWS Development Director. “So, we’re really hoping to find someone soon, because we don’t want her to live out the rest of her life in a shelter.”

Peanut, who is blind, is otherwise healthy. She was initially bewildered and anxious with all of these recent transitions to find herself in a shelter.

“She was definitely nervous, like a lot of animals are, when they come in,” said Lowe. “She was used to her owner’s voice and touch and now, everything is still so new for her. But she’s very trusting. Once she hears the tone of your voice and if you extend your hand, she’ll get up and rub against you. She’s a very sweet girl.”

Global interest in pet adoptions surged in the early phases of the COVID-19 pandemic, which forced people to stay at home for much of the last year and a half, according to a 2021 study.

“We have been seeing a steady number of adoptions and definitely a lot of people coming in this past year looking for their perfect ‘Covid buddy,’ ” said Lowe.

However, according to research conducted by Pets for Seniors on why older people might have a hesitancy to adopt an older animal, reasons included: potentially higher expenses for older animals, fear of how to care for the animal if the adopter had an extended hospital stay, and concern over what would happen to the animal if the senior citizens reached a point where they could no longer care for the pet.

Nationally, there are a number of Senior-to-Senior programs, matching senior citizens with senior animals. PAWS has a special Senior Pet Adoption program called the Wilkalas-Batch program to ease the initial financial burden.

The adoption fee is reduced by 25 percent for anyone more than 65 years old when adopting a dog eight years and older and a cat 10 years and older. (Personal and veterinarian references are still required for all adoptions.)

There are also a number of national pet financial assistance programs for any pet owner, not just seniors, who are on a limited financial budget, but who can still provide a forever home for an animal. Many of these funds and programs help cover routine veterinary care, emergency services, and adoption expenses.

“Peanut, like most cats, is a social creature who wants to belong to part of a human ‘pack,’” said Lowe. “The best environment for her would be a quiet home, not with other animals or children, but with an owner who is willing to be patient. She also needs a home that is easy to navigate since she makes her way around by sounds.”

November is National Adopt a Senior Pet month and here are more resources on Pet Finder on how to care for one, including “Ten Reasons Senior Cats Rule.”

Let’s hope Peanut finds her forever home before then. To contact PAWS. visit: pawsadoption.org/services

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

We’re looking at a summery weekend with lots of festivals to fit your mood and interests. Beer, cheese, and sedentary sitting, while watching outdoor films—it’s the perfect recipe for fitness!

Maine Outdoor Film Festival

Saturday, September 11—Owls Head

MOFF is rolling through the Midcoast this weekend and if you caught my story on four compelling films to catch, it’ll be a balmy evening for it at the Owls Head Transportation Museum. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. The show starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $10. See the selected films and details here.

Killer Road Trips: Three Brew Fests

Saturday, September 11—Statewide

All of the brew fests were canceled last year, so this weekend is making up for lost time with three events designed to quaff a cold one. Snow Pond on Tap, located at The Snow Center for the Arts in Sidney, is a lakeside brew fest featuring bands such as Muddy Ruckus, Adam Ezra Group, and The Mallet Brothers Band, along with Maine breweries and cideries. Pints on the Pier, held at the Maine Maritime Museum in Bath, is serving up Maine’s best beers, ciders, and kombucha. On-site food trucks will be available, plus, cornhole, as well as live music from String Tide, and more. The Black Fly Brewfest, held at the Millar Civic Center in Houlton, is also pouring the good stuff in the afternoon. All festivals have Designated Driver tickets as well.

9/11 Day: A Pledge To Do Good

Saturday, September 11—Statewide

With this year falling on the 20th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks on the U.S., the nonprofit 911 Day serves as a permanent tribute to those killed and injured on 9/11. The aim is to make this into a worldwide day of unity by encouraging millions of people to do good deeds to help others. Examples for us in the Midcoast include supporting local charities, putting together backpacks for kids in need, helping out families through Wine Fairies of Maine, helping out a neighbor, participate in meal packs in 10 cities around the U.S. and more.

Killer Road Trip: Maine Cheese Festival

Sunday, September 12—Pittsfield

Nothing cheesy about this! Head over to Manson Park (51 Peltoma Ave) in Pittsfield, a large park along the Sebasticook River, for the annual showcase of the best artisan cheeses made in Maine from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. With more than 15 cheesemakers/farms on site, there will also be a Maine beer and wine garden, several food trucks, Maine artisan food vendors, educational food demos, live music, and live animals. Stay for the inaugural Maine Cheese Competition and Awards, with the award ceremony live-streamed from the music stage. FMI: Maine Cheese Festival

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

ROCKLAND—Nearly 100 businesses and non-profits in the Midcoast took to the open air at the Rockland Plaza on September 8, a departure from the Penobscot Bay Regional Chamber of Commerce’s usual annual indoor event. A temperate 70-degree sunny day greeted the exhibitors, many of whom had specials, giveaways, and drawings, at their display tables.

It wasn’t just a gathering place to connect with old friends and learn about what the businesses were up to, but also, it was an event for job-seekers to inquire about work, as many of the businesses and non-profits were hiring.

“We encourage people to attend whether they are residents, business people, folks looking for job opportunities, or all of the above,” said Tom Peaco, the Chamber’s executive director in a release. A list of all of the exhibitors can be found here.

Spotlight on UMA Rockland Center

Senator Chip Curry (D-Waldo) is also a UMA Rockland Center Student Services Coordinator. Although he was dressed in business attire, he was all set to get drenched in a dunk tank.

“There’s a donation fee to dunk me that goes to a scholarship fund that helps UMA Rockland Center’s students,” he said. “This is a special fund that helps students in a financial crunch to continue on with their college classes. If somehow the funding isn’t working out for them or they got surprised by unexpected bills, this scholarship fund helps them to get past those hurdles.”

Asked about his formal clothing for the dunk tank, he quipped, “There’s a swimsuit under here.”

Spotlight on the North Atlantic Blues Festival

The Festival took place this summer after a COVID-19-related hiatus last summer to the delight of many blues fans and the Midcoast community. Their display table held a number of custom guitars made from various upcycled parts such as cigar boxes.

Organizer Paul Benjamin said, “Our numbers surpassed even 2019’s attendance records this year. It was great to be back.”

Spotlight on Midcoast 7 Adult Education Classes

“I think people are more confident about getting back to Adult Ed this year,” said Betsy Rector, Administrative Assistant at Midcoast School of Technology. “A lot of people have been calling us to ask if we’re offering in-person classes, which we are. They’re eager to get back into a classroom, and of course, it will be safe, and socially distanced.”

For more information about the Penobscot Bay Regional Chamber, visit www.CamdenRockland.com or call 207-596-0376.

Photos by Kay Stephens

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

Labor Day Weekend is upon us, which hardly seems possible. But, we’ve got some great things happening from Thursday to Monday including a literary talk, a couple of down-home country fairs, an air show, and reggae on the beach.

Author Mac Smith Talks About Peyton Place

Thursday, September 3—Rockland

Fans of the iconic 1957 movie that filmed in Camden might want to grab a chair for a talk author Mac Smith (Peyton Place Comes Home To Maine) is doing at The Rockland Public Library at 6:30 p.m. For a rainy Thursday, this is going to be a perfect indoor event as Smith traces the making of the movie, what happened after the crews left, and the premiere of the film, which was held in Camden. The event is free to the public. FMI: Press Release

Killer Road Trips: Two Labor Day Weekend Country Fairs

Friday, September 4 to Monday, September 6—Statewide

If you still want to keep that summer feeling going, check out three fairs taking place this weekend in various parts of the state. Windsor Fair has rides, harness racing, all kinds of greasy fair food (yum!) and animal exhibits. See more info. The Blue Hill Fair is a true “Down to Earth” country fair with everything from Steer Pulls to a Blueberry Pie Eating Contest, from mechanical rides to a demolition derby. See more info.

Reggae on the Beach

Saturday, September 4—South Thomaston

After Ida blows through, things are going to be sunny and mellow again, especially with reggae band Catch A Vibe playing at Waterman’s Beach Brewery (362 Waterman Beach Road, S. Thomaston) Check out the funky world rhythms and cool island sounds starting at 4 p.m. and grab a cold one!

Killer Road Trip: The Great State of Maine Air Show

Saturday, September 4 and Sunday, September 5—Brunswick

From the U.S. Navy Blue Angels to the Red Bull Air Force Jump Team, everyone’s eyes will be on the skies in Brunswick this weekend. The Brunswick Executive airport will be hosting the event when the gates open at 8 a.m. with air performances and ground displays all day until 4:30 p.m. There is a limited amount of general admission passes. FMI Tickets and Performers

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

CAMDEN— A shuttered food stand, formerly Deirdre’s Roadside Takeout, opposite of the Camden Hills State Park, has been brought back to life by Andrew Lipman in the form of a to-go taqueria.

Called Two Dudes Tacos, the funny thing is that it’s just one dude running the show.

“There was another dude, but he dropped out, so my other dude is my puppy, Gus,” joked Lipman.

His partner, Andrea McFeely, is actually helping him run the business instead.

Lipman, who was born in Portland, Maine, spent a decade cooking Mexican food in Phoenix, Arizona, before coming back to his home state to unveil his own cooking style, which, in his words is, “a classic Mexican influence with a little bit of Tex-Mex.”

The menu is simple: Tacos three ways—carne asada, chili lime chicken, or a crispy potato (vegan).

Each taco is $3.50 or $11 for three. He also makes carne asada fries, nachos, and freshly made tortilla chips with homemade salsas. The taqueria also sells ice cream and sweets.

“I source from local farms as much as I can,” said Lipman. “The carne asada is a classic dish from the Sonora area of Mexico. I do a little spin on that by grilling a pounded-thin flank steak and char it on the grill and add Mexican spices and cinnamon. For the chili lime chicken, I take organic boneless chicken thighs and marinate them in a lime/chili seasoning, then char that as well. We cut the meat fresh for every order.”

Patrons will not find anything store-bought for his tacos.

“Something that’s really important to me is that I make everything by hand; the fries, the chips, and tortillas, along with various salsas,” he said. “Everything I put out I want to be delicious.”

The menu will change with added specials each week. 

“You may see homemade tamales, a burrito, or a chimichanga,” he said.

Even though the taqueria is opening late in the season, Lipman wants to stay open as long as he can for the locals. “Of course I want to feed the people who are visiting our great state, but I’m making the food for the working person,” he said.

As the food stand is not insulated, Lipman’s business will be open as late into the fall season as the weather permits. He said he would be open to other pop-up take-out opportunities throughout the winter before returning back to that space in the spring.

“For winter specials, we plan on a coffee and hot chocolate bar, and churros,” Lipman said.

The taqueria is open from noon to 6 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday.

For more information visit them on Facebook.

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

CAMDEN & OWLS HEAD—Cinematic escape in the outdoors on cool September evenings is on the docket for The Maine Outdoor Film Festival, an international festival of adventure, conservation, and the arts. The annual festival is making its tour up to and through the Midcoast on 9/2 and 9/11 this year.

Out of 150 films, 66 short films were chosen for the various programs, which will be screened all over Maine in the coming weeks. Standout films in the eight-film Camden program according to MOFF director Nick Callanan include a heartwarming tale of a pet turtle called “Snowy.”

“You couldn’t have more of an outdoor film with this one,” he said. “The film is about an indoor turtle that has been instructed by the veterinarian to spend more time outside. It’s a character study of the family that raises the turtle.”

“The Long Game” is another compelling five-minute short about a man’s journey to recovery through the Maine wilderness.

“This is an inspirational story about a dude who took a bad wipeout and ended up having one of the most refreshing perspectives on the world,” said Callanan. “To see someone who took responsibility for his own outlook on life and became a model for others was really inspiring.”

“Free As Can Be” is the longest piece in the program at 31 minutes. 

“What we see with that one is a young man, who, unlike a lot of people of that age, is a student of history,” he said. “He sought out one of his rock-climbing heroes and kept asking the older man to be his mentor until the guy relented. The young man ended up helping the older man achieve his life’s goal of climbing El Capitan. It’s one of those buddy films that show persistent positivity.”

One of the best films in the Owls Head program according to Callahan is “Understory- A Journey Into The Tongass.”

“It’s the longest piece in the program and probably my favorite story in the festival this year,” he said. “It’s the story of a woman, a fisherman, who refurbished a sailboat and invited two of her badass female friends, a painter and a biologist, to sail with her to the Tongass National Forest in Alaska. They sailed around the Prince of Wales Island and examined the clear-cutting that was happening and then exposed what a sham it was. It’s a combination of drama, animation, a conservation story, and adventure.”

“All of the Maine stories are really strong,” he said. “It’s a great era for film-making in Maine right now; there’s so much talent.”

For more information about MOFF and where other programs are screening in Maine visit: maineoutdoorfilmfestival.com

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

Now that Henri has finally cleared out, we’re looking at a sunny, beautiful weekend, the last hurrah of August. Each of these events in the spotlight is outdoors and reminiscent of childhood summer days from an old-fashioned fair with rides to a drive-in laser show. Soak it in before it’s gone!

Girls Night Out at St. George River Café

Friday, August 27—Warren

Did you know that the St. George River Café reopened? Here’s my story from last week. One thing they’re dedicated to is bringing back live music and highlighting local talent. So this Friday, even though it’s billed as “Girls Night Out,” it doesn’t mean only girls can be in the audience when powerhouse ladies, Annie Menzietti and Neon Gypsy (Jennifer Kosinchuk) take the stage from 7 to 10 p.m. for a free show. Enjoy the simple menu and a cold beer or wine.

Drag Races & Mud Runs at The Union Fair

Friday, August 27 to Saturday, August 28—Union

The Union Fair has been going on all week and this is the last weekend for it. Friday is designated Maine Wild Blueberry Festival Day (see schedule here) capping off with Thunder Valley Lawn Mower Drag Races in the evening. Saturday is the day for the Car Show and The Inaugural Mud Run (see schedule here). Enjoy an old-fashioned Maine fair. FMI: Admission & Details

Maine Book Festival

Saturday, August 28—Thomaston

Bookworms rejoice! The largest Maine book festival is taking place at 12 High Street in Thomaston from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. More than 50 authors from all over the state will be on hand for special readings, signings, and Q & As. There will also be live music, food from The Jersey Plate food truck, and a Children’s Tent. Books are windows to the world: go find a Maine treasure and bring one home. FMI: Details

Killer Road Trip: A Drive-in Laser Light Show

Friday, August 27 through Sunday, August 29—Bangor

Remember when you were a kid and you got to go to the drive-in on a summer evening? Well, get on up to Speedway 95 Racetrack with the whole brood (or a pack of friends) in a station wagon for a family-friendly laser show with hits from ‘70s, ‘80s, ‘and 90s all choreographed with 25 high-powered lasers. Bring chairs and blankets for a special tailgating area. It’s only $29 per car load—no matter how many people you pile in it! Note: you must buy tickets ahead. FMI: Details and Tickets

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

WARREN—COVID-19 left a hole in the tiny village of Warren last year when the St. George River Café had to close.

Warren resident C.T. Nguyen couldn’t bear to see the beloved community eatery stay shuttered, so, with a silent partner who often frequented the Café, he revived the business under the same name. Its grand reopening took place Friday. August 20, with music performed by the Blind Albert Duo and Phog.

The menu is simple, with head chef Bennett Perry at the helm.

Opening night featured specialty burgers, hot dogs, and a summer salad.

“We’re sourcing locally as much as possible,” she said. “On certain Saturday nights, we’ll be offering a space for guest chefs to come in and cook their food as a cooperative model, and in addition to that, we’ll be offering themed nights: Italian, Russian, Portuguese, German, and so on.”

While the menu will change weekly, Bennett said the staples will include homemade vegetarian and meat-based soups, dumplings, quiche, and pie.

Bennett, whose background is in baking, will be offering an array of baked goods each morning including scones and muffins with a variety of egg dishes.

Lunchtime will be light fare—soups, salads, and sandwiches—pre-made, for the local workers who need grab-and-go options in 30 minutes. And they’re even offering brunch on Sundays.

Nguyen, who serves as the Project Manager of the restaurant, has big plans for the restaurant beyond food and drink.  The space will also serve as the community’s Meeting House.

“Music is going to be a big piece of this place with semi-pro and professional musicians regularly playing,” said  Nguyen. “And because I work with kids, once a month, we’re going to host a Chem-Free Night, so we can get young people in here performing, as well.”

Using the projects that Nguyen takes to heart, such as working with nonprofits, the cafe is going to host a weekly ‘Nonprofit Night,” in which each group can share what they do.

“On those nights we’ll have a light menu and they can share what good things are happening in the community,” he said.

They’ll also offer nights for improv comedy and storytelling à la the Moth: Storytelling. And lunchtime is reserved for community groups who want to use the space, such as book clubs, and garden clubs.

People have been knocking on the door, showing up to the town meetings with full support and they are excited, said Nguyen.

The St. George River Cafe will be open six days a week, closed on Mondays.

For more information visit their Facebook page.

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

As we near the end of summer and back to school, everyone is looking to cram in some fun experiences before it’s time to get serious again. With an art walk, an outdoor concert, and two road trip-worthy festivals around the state, this is the weekend to enjoy a little vacation/staycation.

Camden Art Walk

Thursday, August 19—Camden

Take a walk on the art side Thursday evening as Camden’s galleries and shops open their doors from 5 to 7 p.m. along with a Bay View block party. (Bay View Street will be closed between the Public Landing and Willey Wharf). There will also be live music from Emmett Lalor.

River Jam Fest

Saturday, August 21 & Sunday, August 22—Biddeford

Capitalizing on the state’s long-delayed Bicentennial celebrations, Biddeford is going all out with two days of a river festival in Mechanics Park. Expect two days of live music, dance performances, kids’ activities, a giant slip and slide, Maine bands, food trucks, local breweries, and fireworks! The event is free to the public. FMI: Details

Brunswick Outdoor Arts Festival

Saturday, August 21—Brunswick

The Brunswick Outdoor Arts Festival celebrates more than 100 artists and artisans in the community and will be held downtown from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The show features recognized artists, as well as emerging creators of jewelry, fiber, ceramics, photography, painting, and mixed media. Plus there will be a lot of activities for the kids. Musical performances start at 10 a.m. and go all day—here is the music lineup.  Admission is free. FMI: Details.

Belfast Pirate Takeover Day

Saturday, August 21—Belfast

Break out your eye patches and your rolling R’s,  Belfast is hosting Pirate Day starting at the Breakwater at 10 a.m. to see the Milady arrive with pirates with cannon fire. The event goes to 1 p.m. Observe pirate training, including sword fighting at The Game Loft, treasure map making with Pirate Tink at Waterfall Arts, and plank walking with Pirate Jack. FMI: Details

Camden Summer Sounds at the Snow Bowl

Sunday, August 22—Camden

It’s Sunday Funday with Primo Cubano at the Camden Snow Bowl for its Summer Sounds free outdoor concert venue. The music starts at 2 p.m. Snacks and water will be sold on-site. Grab a picnic and a seat on the hill. FMI: Camden Summer Sounds

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

This weekend is a combination of two summertime outdoor festivals, two oddball events and one Sunday Fun Day concert. Get on out there and enjoy!

Boat Shows and Outdoor Festivals

Friday, August 13 to Sunday, August 15—Belfast & Rockland

Boat lovers get a two-fer this weekend, as does anyone who loves a good outdoor festival by the ocean. Maine Boat & Home Show takes over Rockland’s Harbor Park on Friday, starting at 10 a.m. with (obviously) boats, marine gear vendors, fine furniture, and homewares, arts, architecture, live music, and food trucks. It’s also the place to be to discover Maine’s most talented artisans, furniture makers, architects, and builders. The show is open through Sunday. Tickets start at $15. FMI: Schedule & Details

Belfast Harborfest, Belfast Rotary Club’s free three-day celebration of the city’s maritime history and traditions kicks off Friday at Steamboat Landing and goes through Sunday with a boatbuilding competition, entertainment, food trucks, a rowing regatta, shipyard tours, a cardboard boat race, and more. FMI: Schedule & Details

Old-Skool Vinyl at Odd Alewives

Friday, August 13—Waldoboro

Odd Alewives Farm Brewery is hosting a free Odd Spin Vinyl Night featuring a carefully curated two hours of record playing bliss from DJs Rich and Anna from 6 to 8 p.m. FMI: Details

Life During the Revolutionary War 

Saturday, August 14—Camden

The Troops at Camden: 18th Century Living History Interpreters are taking over the Camden Rockport Historical Society from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Go back in time and learn about military and civilian life on Penobscot Bay during the 18th century. The event is free and family-friendly. FMI: Details

Killer Road Trip: Steampunk Fair

Saturday, August 14—Kennebunk

Yet another fair returning after being canceled last year, the 7th annual Steampunk Fair takes place at The Brick Store Museum (117 Main Street) from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. For $5, you’ll get to enjoy live music, a viewing of “20,000 Leagues Under The Sea,” browse various steampunk art and craft from vendors, see people in costumes, attend lectures, and take in museum exhibitions. FMI: Details.

Free Outdoor Jazz Concert By The Ocean

Sunday, August 15—Rockport

Sundays continue to be outdoor music Fun Days with Creative Ensemble Collective performing at Rockport Marine Park at 4 p.m. Sponsored by Bay Chamber Concerts & Music School, you can expect “original arrangements of blues, jazz and popular classics from some of the great songwriters of the last 50 years.” Bring something to sit on and snack on for this free show and with limited parking, best to get there early. FMI: Creative Ensemble Collective

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

STOCKTON SPRINGS—The former private Stockton Harbor Yacht Club has been transformed into a public restaurant called The Club Marina and Bar and its quiet harborside vibe is a hidden gem.

Owner Jillian Liversidge and her husband, Sandy Liversidge, purchased the shuttered building six years ago.  First, they created the nonprofit Stockton Harbor Yacht Club, which Liversidge said brought many people together. Both she and her husband grew up on boats and envisioned a place for boaters and community members to meet and share that would benefit the area. In December 2020, the yacht club as an entity, vacated the building.

“So, there we were with a waterfront building and what do you do with that?” she asked rhetorically. “You start a restaurant.”

Liversidge grew up cooking in her mother’s restaurant in Harpswell.

“I was working on Bailey Island with my mom starting at 15 years old,” she said. “In my family, food is love. Before I worked in the restaurant business, I worked summers banding lobsters on my dad’s boat. I also truly enjoy the social aspect of a restaurant and meeting new people.” she said. Liversidge waited on tables all through college, and even part-time after becoming a world language teacher in 1998.

The restaurant has been open for a month while Liversidge gets her bearings. Like all restaurateurs navigating the challenges of the pandemic, she has been dealing with supply chain disruptions; thus keeps her menu short, seasonal, and local—and it changes every week.

“Sourcing food locally is important to me as a Mainer,” she said. “We get a lot of our produce from the Jergenson Family Farm, just up the street. Lobsters come from Stockton Harbor fishermen and other seafood comes primarily from Maine fishermen through Maine Shellfish. I am actively working with farms that raise meat for consumption as well. Not being able to find a food distributor has actually been a blessing, as I am developing direct relationships with the farmers closer to home, many of which are right here in Stockton Springs.”

Liversidge’s strong ties to the community have paid off as some of her friends are farm partners, servers, and kitchen staff at the restaurant.“The community has been extremely supportive,” she said. “We’re small and still navigating what our clientele wants on the menu. Whatever my friends have in their gardens--that’s likely going on the menu that week.”

Consisting of small plates and main fare, the menu crisscrosses different cultures with staples such as Asian chicken, pulled pork sandwiches, nachos, Szechuan noodles, and a Quiche of the Day. Many are favorite recipes that Liversidge has collected from various friends and family members over the years and during her travels. “The bacon-stuffed dates and the bruschetta have been very popular,” she said. “We’re allergy-friendly and entirely nut-free. We have gluten-free options, vegetarian options, as well as vegan choices.”

The Club bar is cozy, exactly what you’d expect a former yacht club bar to be, in a separate smaller room with views of the ocean. With the help of her friend and bartender, Michael Labenski, the bar menu consists of Maine craft brews, a mostly organic wine list, and some craft cocktails using seasonal ingredients such as the Cucumber Splash (Bombay Sapphire Gin, muddled lime, cucumber, agave, and basil, topped with soda water.)

The waterfront deck is unsurpassed and uncrowded unlike many of the harborfront restaurants in the summertime; a haven for many locals who just want a getaway.“We plan to have live music regularly, and theme nights, such as burger night, margaritas and fajitas, and wine tastings,” she said. “We also hope to offer brunch in the future.”

Due to staffing challenges and Liversidges’s plans to continue teaching in the fall, the restaurant is only open Thursday through Saturday from 4 to 10 p.m. Her crew is still working on how late the restaurant and bar will be open into the fall season.

The Club Marina and Bar is located at 12 Cape Docks Road. Find out more on their Facebook page.

Kay Stephens can be found at news@penbaypilot.com