Drive into Spring 2020

DRIVE INTO

SPRING 3 EPIC MAINE ROAD TRIP IDEAS & WHAT NOT TO MISS ALONG THE WAY WHEN BUYING A LEASED CAR MAKES SENSE • WHY MAINTENANCE IS IMPORTANT A Special Advertising Section of the Bangor Daily News • Friday, February 28, 2020

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DRIVE INTO SPRING

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February 28, 2020

A CURE FOR

CABIN FEVER 3 Epic Spring Road Trips Right Here In Maine

BY KAREN TIETJEN

A ROAD TRIP is one of the best ways to tour a region at your own pace, and once the roads have thawed, there’s no shortage of exciting things to see, do, and taste right here in Maine. So if your cabin fever has

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reached its peak, you don’t need handfuls of time (and money) to plan your next adventure, come spring.

After a post-winter tune-up, hop into the car and hit the road to become a “tourist” within the state. Whether you have a day, a weekend, or a week to spare, you can plan a driving route to make your escape, stopping at

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local gems along the way.

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TAKE “THE SCENIC ROUTE” ALONG ROUTE 1 You can spend a day poking around a couple of the coastal towns along Maine’s Route 1 or an

2. CAMDEN

4. FREEPORT

the way. Skimming through some of the state’s

Swing by Camden and head to Mount Battie,

You can’t pass through Freeport without

most scenic destinations, Route 1 can be followed

where a short 1.1 mile hike will bring you

making a stop at the outlets, where you’ll

from Belfast to Portland (and beyond in either

to some of the best views in the state. When

find deals at name-brand stores like The

direction) to experience some of the state’s best

it’s time to re-fuel, make a pit stop at Uncle

North Face, J. Crew, Carter’s, and more. Of

shops, attractions, and eats. Rebecca Hubbell,

Willie’s Candy Shoppe to restock your snack

course, Freeport is also home to the L.L.

creator of the food and travel blog Sugar & Soul

stash with old-fashioned favorites. And if you

Bean flagship store, a must-see stop when

and a Bangor area local, recommends some of

decide to spend the night, the Inn At Ocean’s

you’re in the area.

her favorite local gems along the way.

Edge captures coastal luxury and “is really

entire week touring the coast and stopping along

Glamping at Tops’l Farm. PHOTO COURTESY OF REBECCA HUBBELL/SUGAR & SOUL

Looking down Wharf Street in Portland’s Old Port.

PHOTO COURTESY OF KAREN TIETJEN

1. BELFAST

lovely,” says Hubbell.

5. PORTLAND Having earned a reputation as a foodie

This seaside city is home to Delvino’s Grill

3. WALDOBORO

& Pasta House, one of Hubbell’s favorite

While not as sought out by tourists, Hubbell

Portland with a big appetite. Make your way to

eateries in the state. “The blueberry sangria

shares two reasons that Waldoboro is worth

the Old Port and sample small plates at Central

is incredible,” she said. “I always get the

the trip. Glamping at Tops’l Farm lets you

Provisions, dock-fresh seafood at Eventide

hand-tossed pasta.” For lighter fare, she

retreat into nature without giving up modern

Oyster Co., authentic Chinese cuisine at

recommends Chase’s Daily, offering fresh farm-

conveniences and “is a fun and unique place to

Empire, fried treats at HiFi Donuts, gourmet

to-table vegetarian cuisine including pastries,

stay if you want to disconnect.” Also in town

dessert at Gross Confection Bar, drinks (both

breakfast, and lunch options. Just be sure to

is Morse’s Sauerkraut, one of the blogger’s

alcoholic and non) at Vena’s Fizz House …

check availability ahead of time; they’re closed

favorite places to take out-of-staters. “The

the list goes on. If you choose to spend the

on Mondays and certain dates throughout the

Espresso Soda is incredible, and we love their

night, Hubbell says she’s had her eye on The

year (including two weeks in late March).

Eastern European menu,” she said.

Pomegranate Inn in the West End.

destination in and of itself, you’d best come to

February 28, 2020

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DRIVE INTO SPRING

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CRUISE THE MAINE WINE TRAIL A trip to Napa would be nice, but there are plenty

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of vineyards and wineries right here within driving distance. With over two dozen wineries throughout Maine, map out a self-guided tour amongst a cluster of them (and designate a safe driver, of course).

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For a weekend drive around the

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greater Bangor area, spend a couple

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of days cruising the trail in different

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directions. Before hitting the road, just

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DRIVE TO ACADIA

be sure to check the availability of your planned stops (note that some wineries

While a trip to Acadia National Park in Bar

on this list have limited seasons and open

Harbor (located on Mount Desert Island) can

in May). You can also map your own road

easily occupy an entire week’s trip, those

trip by visiting MaineWineTrail.com.

looking to explore more of Downeast Maine should check out the surrounding area, too.

1. CELLARDOOR WINERY IN LINCOLNVILLE

Beginning at Acadia, which is about an

Cruise toward the coast and in about an hour

for those who want to spend less time driving

from Bangor, you’ll find this hot spot. Here, vino

and more time doing.

lovers can enjoy tastings, events, and winery tours.

PHOTO COURTESY OF CELLARDOOR WINERY

hour’s drive from Bangor and three hours from Portland, this is the perfect “road trip”

(Season begins in mid-April.) You can also visit

1. BANGOR TO ELLSWORTH

their Portland location at The Point; just check their

Start your trip in Bangor, home to the urban

website for availability if you’d like to do a tasting.

amenities that will kick your drive off

2. WINTERPORT WINERY IN WINTERPORT

right. Hubbell says that a must-do for horror enthusiasts is the Stephen King tour (hosted

The Lamb Gyro Eggs Benedict is a favorite brunch item at Provender in Ellsworth.

PHOTO COURTESY OF PROVENDER

Make your way back toward Winterport a two-for-one treat: Not only can you sample

by SK Tours of Maine, LLC) which features local haunts that inspired the “King

wines, but you can sip local beers from the on-site Penobscot Bay Brewery, too!

of Horror” himself. Or, take a drive to less spooky attractions including the Paul

3. SHALOM ORCHARD ORGANIC WINERY IN FRANKLIN

Bunyan statue on Main Street, the Maine Discovery Museum, and shows at the Bangor Waterfront Pavilion.

About an hour outside of Bangor, this certified organic farm also offers a variety of

There’s no shortage of nosh nearby, either; recommendations include Bagel

organic dry fruit wines. (Tastings available daily between Memorial Day and Columbus

Central in downtown Bangor for a quick and tasty bite, or drive across the river to

Day and “by chance or appointment” in the winter.)

Brewer to visit Mason’s Brewing Company (“The sweet potato fries are amazing,” Hubbell said) or Humble for a casual dinner. As you drive southeast toward Mount

PHOTO COURTESY OF CATHERINE HILL WINERY

4. CATHERINE HILL WINERY IN CHERRYFIELD

Desert Island, don’t miss Provender Kitchen + Bar in Ellsworth for brunch.

Continue east for about 20 minutes from Shalom

Outdoor enthusiasts will probably want to spend the majority of their time hiking,

Orchard to Catherine Hill Winery, which includes

biking, and camping galore, but those who prefer savoring the quieter side of nature

a selection of barrel-aged red and berry wines for

will still have plenty to do. From adrenaline-filled activities to scenic strolling and

unique and sophisticated flavor. (Season begins

birdwatching, there’s something here for everyone.

in May.)

5. DRAGONFLY FARM & WINERY IN STETSON

2. ACADIA NATIONAL PARK

3. BAR HARBOR Just a short drive outside the park, find a hub of quintessential New England culture

Less than half an hour’s drive northwest from Bangor is Dragonfly Farm & Winery,

in the town of Bar Harbor. Hubbell suggests taking an Oli’s Trolley Tour to see some

where you can also pick up some fresh maple syrup.

famous landmarks around Mount Desert Island, or sail the Atlantic with the Bar

6. ANTHONY LEE’S WINERY IN DEXTER

Harbor Whale Watch Co. Wine lovers can imbibe at Bar Harbor Cellars and grab a bite at the Sweet Pea Cafe. (Season begins in May.) And if pitching a tent isn’t your

Offering scrumptious fruit-based wines like apple-cranberry, blueberry, and pear, this

thing, Hubbell says the posh Asticou Inn in nearby Northeast Harbor (about a 20

winery is located along Route 7, less than 30 minutes from Stetson.

minute drive from Bar Harbor) has a stellar reputation and gorgeous gardens.

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February 28, 2020

THE IMPORTANCE OF ROUTINE

VEHICLE MAINTENANCE COURTESY OF METRO CREATIVE OWNING A CAR is a big responsibility. Drivers who plan to keep their vehicles for the long haul must empha-

•

IMPROVES PERFORMANCE AND EFFICIENCY:

Routine

maintenance

includes

oil

changes,

filter

size maintenance if they want to keep adding miles to

changes and fluid top-offs. Such tasks keep engines

their odometers. In fact, the automotive information site

running smoothly. Ignoring this routine maintenance

CarAdvice says that routine maintenance may be the

can put engines in jeopardy of breaking down and

most important thing drivers can do for their vehicles.

adversely affect vehicle performance, diminishing fuel

A vehicle needs consistent care if it is to run efficiently. Maintenance also reduces the risk of roadside breakdowns and costly repairs. Here's a look at some of

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IDENTIFIES SAFETY ISSUES: Routine inspections

and work performed by reputable service stations help

PHOTO: ©ROMASET/ADOBE STOCK

the benefits of staying on top of maintenance.

economy and leading to a sluggish ride.

drivers stay abreast of recalls or issues that can affect the

SAVES MONEY: Even though maintenance costs

money, sticking to a consistent maintenance schedule can save big bucks in the long run. For example, the cost of rotating and aligning tires is considerably less than

safety of the vehicle.

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MAINTAINS A MAINTENANCE RECORD: When

the time comes to sell the vehicle, having a log of routine

repairing a car after a major blowout and paying for a tow

maintenance indicates to potential buyers that the

and tire replacement.

vehicle was well cared for.

SERVING FAMILIES, FRIENDS, AND NEIGHBORS SINCE 1956

YOU BELONG HERE Up to $250 Cash Back and a 2.00% APR* Rate Reduction!

Refinance your auto or recreational vehicle loan from another financial institution with Bangor Federal, meet account requirements, and you’ll receive up to $250 deposited to your checking account! ** *APR=Annual Percentage Rate.**Rate Reduction of 2.00% will be taken off your current financed rate. Lowest auto loan rate offered at 3.25% for up to 60 months = $18.13 per thousand, principal and interest. Lowest recreational vehicle loan offered at 4.75% for up to 60 months = $18.83 per thousand,principal and interest. Offer is subject to change without notice. $200 Cash Back Bonus is given 90 days after the following qualifications are met: open a regular Bangor Federal checkingaccount, direct deposit to the checking account, automatic loan transfers to the new loan(s) from the checking account, e-statement and online banking enrollment, and open/active Visa©debit card. $250 Cash Back Bonus is given after Kasasa Rewards account is opened and meetsall requirements for three consecutive monthly Kasasa qualification cycles, Direct Depositestablished to the checking account, automatic loan transfers to the new loan(s) from thechecking account. Kasasa qualifications include; logging on to Online and/or mobile banking atleast once during each monthly cycle, at least 12 debit card purchases post and settle permonth cycle, and continued e-Statement enrollment. Loans subject to credit qualifications andapproval. Existing Bangor Federal auto and/or recreational loans and checking accounts do notqualify for this offer. Offer valid through April 30, 2020.

339 Hogan Rd, Bangor | 10 Venture Way, Bangor | 6 Dirigo Dr., Brewer 207-947-0374 | bangorfederal.com Federally Insured by NCUA |

February 28, 2020

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DRIVE INTO SPRING

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DRIVERS ED AT BEAL DRIVING ACADEMY BEAL DRIVING ACADEMY is Northeast

Ellsworth High School. The Skowhegan

have the access they need to put their skills

Maine’s best choice for driver’s education

location is currently located at the Skowhegan

to the test in one-on-one driving instruction.

Beal Driving Academy has a schedule to

classes. We bring driver’s education classes

Community Center at 39 Poulin Drive, easily

Most importantly, Beal Driving Academy sets

fit all driver’s ed student and family needs

to you with driver’s ed programs in Bangor,

accessible from Skowhegan High school and

out to use this time and experience to help

including summer driver’s ed and evening

East Millinocket, Ellsworth, Skowhegan, and

close to downtown Skowhegan. Our newest

students become confident drivers.

driver’s education courses. Beal Driving

Pittsfield. Our driver’s training teaches stu-

location is at MCI High School at 295 Main

dents safety and gives them important knowl-

Street in Pittsfield.

of the State of Maine driving expectations.

Academy also offers private driver’s ed classes

DRIVER’S ED COST AND OFFERINGS

and lessons for driver preparation beyond the

edge of Maine roads. Students in our driver’s

The location of our Bangor driving school

Driver’s education courses should be fun,

classroom. Another unique option we offer at

ed classes get exciting hands-on experience

is the ideal spot for getting experience

affordable, and create successful drivers.

our driving academy is driver’s training for

in their training. As a result, students safely

driving in different settings. For instance,

Therefore, the driver’s education cost of our

adults. We are committed to bringing driving

gain confidence behind the wheel.

the calm and quiet neighborhoods of Bangor

program is a value for the low price. Your

instruction to all drivers. Our offerings make

and Hampden or the hustle of downtown

driver’s ed cost will include 30 hours of class

planning for your driver’s education courses

LOCATIONS

Bangor. Students will also have quick access

time and 10 hours of driving time. Students

easy to fit into your life.

We provide our Bangor driver’s education

to the highway in order to have important

will learn about and review motorist

We understand that learning to drive can

training in a safe and convenient location

experience in all driving situations.

expectations for Maine drivers. Our courses

be an exciting and sometimes scary time.

help students develop a solid understanding

Because of this, our driving school supports

of these expectations.

all students in their driver’s ed success. We

at Beal College. In our driving classes,

Beal Driving Academy’s driver’s training

students can engage in learning in a college

helps students apply their knowledge from

setting. Our driving academy is just off of

the classroom to the Maine roads. Likewise,

During your driver’s ed classes you will

make sure that during student driving time,

the I-395 exit and minutes from downtown

this driving experience can give parents and

learn the rules of the road to help you pass

students have one-on-one driving instruction.

Bangor and Hampden. The location of our

guardians some peace of mind.

your learner’s permit test and your driver’s

Additionally, we require that our teen drivers

East Millinocket driving school is along the

In addition to the great location, Beal

license test. We also make sure that the

have parent and guardian involvement in

Penobscot River and ME-157. Our Ellsworth

Driving Academy will pick students up

students are prepared to get their learner’s

their driver’s ed experience. All of this support

location is conveniently located at Mill Mall

at Bangor, John Bapst, Hampden, Brewer,

permit before leaving the program. Above

helps our Bangor driving school be the best

which is directly across the street from

Orono and Hermon area schools. Students

all, students will have a deep understanding

option for your driver’s education needs.

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February 28, 2020

EXPLORE EMCC

EASTERN MAINE Community College is proud to be a resource in the Bangor Region for anyone who is looking for a quality education at the most affordable cost in New England. EMCC offers over 30 degree and certificate programs, a great central location in the heart of Bangor,

ABBY, EMCC STUDENT CLASS OF 2020

affordable housing options, and small class sizes.

“I had gone to a four-year college initially

You are invited to visit EMCC at our

for marine biology and while I was there,

Spring Open House on EMCConnect Day,

realized that that was just not what I wanted

March 25 from 11 a.m.–2:30 p.m. While on

to do. I knew then that I really wanted to

campus, you will be able to choose your

go into the medical field, I just didn’t know

program of interest, join students and

where to start. I had debt from my time at

staff for lunch in their classroom or lab,

that school and it was tough. When I heard

and meet current students, faculty, and

about this one-year Medical Assisting

employers who are always eager to hire

program at EMCC I jumped at the chance to

EMCC grads. There will also be tours, info

come here. I love being in this program and

sessions, and staff on hand to facilitate

hope to be able to go into dermatology after

prospective students who aren’t sure where

I’m done and maybe even go on to nursing.

their interests lie, we are here for you!

I love that classes at EMCC are so hands-on

Visit www.emcc.edu/EMCConnect to register today!

Students who come to EMCC are able to explore all higher education has to offer without the high cost associated.

and how helpful everyone in admissions has been in answering every single one of my questions. My instructors are amazing and I’m so happy to be here!”

—ABBY, MEDICAL ASSISTING ’20

Not only are there one and two-year programs that have incredible hiring

Visit our campus located at 354 Hogan

rates after graduation, there are also

Road in Bangor and set up a tour at emcc.

easy transfer options to schools like

edu/tour. Email admissions@emcc.edu or

UMaine and Husson.

call 207.974.4680 with any questions about

By taking the transfer path at EMCC,

how to apply. You can apply online for FREE

you are able to get your general education

at emcc.edu/apply if you are interested in

courses done for less than $100 per credit

summer or fall courses.

hour while exploring other program

Eastern Maine Community College is a

interests. Just listen to what our students

great college and a smart choice. Let us help

have to say!

you get started.

February 28, 2020

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DRIVE INTO SPRING

One Card.

One Payment.

All Local.

WHEN BUYING A

LEASED VEHICLE MAKES SENSE COURTESY OF METRO CREATIVE CONSUMERS IN THE MARKET for new vehicles must make a number of decisions before getting behind the wheel of a new car. Some may debate whether or not to buy a new or preowned vehicle, while others may wonder if buying or leasing is best for them.

People who decide to lease will likely have another decision to make when their leases reach maturity: should I return my car or buy it?

Drivers who have never leased a vehicle may not even know that lessees have the option to buy their cars at the end of their lease agreements. The idea of leasing suggests drivers

Transfer your credit card balance to a Bangor Federal Visa Credit Card and enjoy the promotional rate through 2021!

would always be better off turning their vehicles in, but there are situations in which keeping the car can benefit buyers.

• THE BUYOUT FIGURE IS LESS THAN THE MARKET VALUE OF THE VEHICLE: Lessees who don’t drive much might find that their vehicles are worth more at the end of

the lease than the buyout figure indicated on the agreement. That means lessees can buy

• 2.90% Intro APR on Balance Transfers 1 • No annual fee or transfer fee 2 • Local, in-house service

the vehicle for less than its market value. They can then flip the vehicle and reap a profit or simply keep driving the vehicle.

• THE EXCESS MILEAGE PENALTIES ARE STEEP: Drivers also may be better off buying if they significantly exceeded their mileage restrictions. Lease agreements typically

include per-mile penalty fees for every mile drivers go past the mileage limits indicated in their agreements. These fees can quickly add up, but drivers won’t have to pay them if they

• Real-time payments • 24/7 account access through online, mobile, and telephone banking

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choose to buy their vehicles at the end of their leases rather than returning them.

• THE CONDITION OF THE VEHICLE: Drivers who took care of their leased vehicles

and even those who did not may benefit from keeping their cars when their leases reach maturity. Keeping a leased vehicle that’s been well-maintained can save drivers money over the cost of buying new vehicles, as the buyout value on their lease is likely a lot less expensive than the cost of a new car or truck. But keeping vehicles that have enduring considerable wear and tear also may be wise, as leasing companies may charge hefty wearand-tear penalties.

Buying a vehicle at the end of a lease may seem unusual. But there are various instances when buying makes more sense than turning the vehicle in.

APR=Annual Percentage Rate. Subject to credit approval.

The promotional 2.9% rate is valid on balance transfers completed through 3/31/20. On January 31, 2021, the promotional rate will expire and the rate will revert to 8.90% for Our Best Rate Visa, and 10.90% for Our Best Rewards Visa. Special promotion does not apply to current Bangor Federal loans or credit card balances.

2 8.90% APR for Our Best Rate, 10.90% APR Our Best Rewards, Foreign Transaction Fee 1.00% of each transaction in U.S. dollars, Late Payment Fee up to $25.00.

Full Visa credit card promotion and application and solicitation disclosures can be viewed at www.bangorfederal.com/balance-transfer. Promotion expires 3/31/20.

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339 Hogan Rd, Bangor | 10 Venture Way, Bangor | 6 Dirigo Dr., Brewer 207-947-0374 | bangorfederal.com Federally Insured by NCUA |

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February 28, 2020

GUARANTEED BEST PRICES AT TWIN CITY TIRE SINCE

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