Immerse yourself in the heart of Bar Harbor at any of our properties. It's not just a stay; it's a genuine, warm embrace of the Maine way. We focus on you—your comfort, your smiles, and creating the perfect launchpad for your adventures in Acadia National Park. With seven unique locations in Bar Harbor and Ellsworth, there's a perfect fit for your lifestyle. Stay with us and discover where harmony meets adventure.
63 Main Street, Bridgton, Maine 04009 (207) 291-4245 thegallery@apertofineart.com
Chris Polson October's Blueberries # 3, 2025, Oil on Linen, 72 x 72 inches
Alison Hildreth
Way Points I, 2019, Oil on Linen, 84 x 66 inches
Lincoln Townley
Venice Banker, 2025, Embellished Screen Print, 23.4 x 16.5 inches
Beverly Brodsky It Comes About, 2013, Oil on Canvas, 60 x 70 inches
Providing quality cabinetry and countertops to homeowners and contractors throughout Southern Maine since 1977.
Whether building a new home or remodeling your current kitchen, Indisco guides you through every step of the kitchen design process to create a beautiful kitchen that you’ll love sharing with friends and family.
REAL MAINE
Visit REALMAINE .com to explore what’s in season, plan an agricultural experience, buy Maine products and produce, and connect to farms, food, and agriculture throughout Maine.
Real Maine features favorful Maine-grown and -made products available year-round and fun family activities from ice cream and berries, to farm cafés and agricultural fairs.
INVITED! YOU’RE
EXPLORE OUR SEASIDE CAMPUS IN BIDDEFORD, MAINE. Tour our state-of-the-art facilites, ask questons, and see for yourself how UNE can help prepare you to make a positve impact on the world — in the health professions, sciences, business, humanites, and more — so you can start your career while stll in school.
Schedule a campus visit. www.une.edu/visit
provider of health professionals and the Brookings Insttute’s #1 college in Maine for increasing career earnings. We are dedicated to giving you life-changing, handson learning experiences through internships, research, and study abroad programs, and our close-knit campus community is warmly welcoming and supportve. www.une.edu
COBBOSSEE LAKE
Winthrop Lakeside Village waterfront Condo on Cobbossee. Central Maine‘s only year round condo situated on 7 acres in a sheltered cove with fabulous southern exposure on 700 feet of waterfront. Second floor end unit with 2 bedrooms and 2 full baths. Cook’s kitchen with maple cabinets, Granite counters, and all stainless appliances. Open concept living, Augusta Country Club Golf Course and Tennis is just a mile away one hour to Portland. Come join this waterfront community today. MLS#1621652 • $495,000
FARMINGTON
Step back in time with this enchanting 1890 home, which boasts 5 bedrooms and 2 full baths. Situated on 1 acre on a tree lined street just a short walk on the sidewalk to Main street Farmington and the University of Maine. MLS #1609730 • $265,000
100 acre parcel of prime hunting land; 18 by 32 camp on a full foundation and with septic system with a dug well nearby. Generator for electricity, propane tanks for cook stove, refrigerator, and lights. Open concept kitchen-dining-living room bathed in natural light and finished in pine. Tremendous opportunity for your own private compound in coveted Bingham area. Middle of this wilderness. Motivated sellers, potential to subdivide. MLS#1609628 • $325,000
COBBOSSEE LAKE
Stunning 4 bedroom 3 bath waterfront home on Cobbossee Lake in beautiful Monmouth. Watch the sun rise everyday— this home is bathed in natural light. Enjoy nature with the call of the loons. Granite counters, cooks kitchen with loads of cabinets and large sink that faces the lake. Huge living room with water views and a pellet stove. Situated on two lots and includes a 60 ‘ by 30’ 2-story garage. A true four-season getaway. Wonderful neighborhood— enjoy lakefront living on marvelous Cobbossee Lake. MLS#1625539 • $989,000
HALLOWELL
Location Location! Custom built one owner home with 3 bedrooms 3 baths and 3443 square feet of living space. This beautifully maintained home o ers the perfect blend of comfort and style nestled on a spacious 1 acre lot with breathtaking views. Open concept first floor with nine foot ceilings that create a bright and cherry atmosphere.. Finished basement with pellet stove. Access to hundreds of acres of trails and woods. MLS#1614571 • $650,000
BOWDOINHAM
Welcome to 1226 Post Road — a warm and inviting 3 bedroom 1 bath Cape-style modular home nestled on a private 2.05-acre lot in scenic Bowdoinham. Open concept kitchen, dining and living room. Two first floor bedrooms + full bath. Lower level walls and ceiling have been spray foamed for e iciency and low heating costs On demand whole house generator. Conveniently located just minutes from I-295 with easy access to Brunswick, Augusta, and Portland. MLS#1623106 • $389,000
WINTHROP COMMERCIAL
This 60 by 100 shop has three lifts and all the tools and equipment to do all aspects of automobile restoration on site. The display lot will accommodate over 75 vehicles for sale while allowing plenty of room for repair. Combine all for enterprises for maxim potential. The 6000 square foot shop has a second level mezzanine level for storage that adds 960 square feet of space to use . All the tools are already in place with an extensive history of business. Three additional buildings on site—two o ice buildings and a storage building. There is a back log of current restoration work to help you get started and a knowledgeable seller to assist in the transition. MLS#1625027 • $1,675,000
AUGUSTA COMMERCIAL
Location-Location-Location! First Class commercial o ice building at the crossroads of commerce, adjacent to the Mall at Augusta, The University of Maine at Augusta and The Augusta Civic Center. Over 13,000 square feet of prime o ice space. Long term tenants with leases in 12 di erent o ice suites. A great collection of professional tenants that share a conference area, a fully equipped gym, a customer waiting area and bathrooms. MLS#1614192 • $1,750,000
WOODBURY POND
6.6 acres with 620 feet of pristine water frontage on the last remaining open cove on Woodbury Pond in desirable Litchfield o Route 126. Potential for three lots with water frontage. Roads already engineered. MLS#1590643 • $900,000
WINTHROP COMMERCIAL
Huge potential with this commercial building in downtown Winthrop on busy Route 133. 3100 square feet of usable space on the first floor. 4 shop areas and an o ice, large parking area. MLS#1604470 • $310,000
AUGUSTA COMMERCIAL
1.1 acre commercial lot at the corner of Civic center drive and Bog Road. Public water and sewer is available on both streets and the tra ic count is tremendous. Presently there are two commercial buildings at this location that have been used in the past. This property is in the PD District for the city of Augusta. A great place for Business and professional o ices.
MLS#1624182 • $875,000
MANCHESTER
Endless possibilities with this 9.75-acre parcel of land nestled in the heart of Manchester. Public water and sewer connections, Great opportunity for development. Sub-dividable, additional land available for purchase.
MLS#1622588 • $265,000
MADISON
Total privacy close to downtown The power goes by the land and only a short way to build. Plenty of room for you to have your own private homestead or subdivide and sell o some lots. MLS#1596752 • $79,000
Seeallmylistings and Virtual Tours!
MANCHESTER
Discover endless possibilities with this remarkable 12-acre parcel of land nestled in the heart of Manchester. Public water and sewer connections, opportunity for development. MLS#1616910 • $155,000
MANCHESTER
This 2.16-acre wooded lot in Manchester o ers an excellent opportunity to create your ideal retreat or build your dream home. Close to the Augusta Country Club, shopping, dining, and other amenities. Peaceful, private setting. MLS#1622865 • $150,000
strawberry “cheesecake” frozen smoothie
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1 cup Silk® Unsweet Vanilla Almondmilk (or Chocolate Almondmilk)
1/2 Medium banana
Roll up your sleeves:
1 cup Good Culture® Simply Strawberry Cottage Cheese
2 cups Hannaford Frozen Strawberries
1/2 tsp. McCormick® Pure Vanilla Extract
1. Combine all ingredients in a blender. Blend on high until smooth and creamy. Add additional almondmilk or ice until desired consistency is reached.
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31 FROM THE EDITOR
“For Your Eyes Only” By Colin W. Sargent
33 LETTERS
By Colin W. Sargent
FINE LIVING
OVERHEARD IN PORTLAND AFTER DARK
A Night Photo Journey of cobblestony places and nighttown imagery jammed with people By Audrey Esteves
199 MAINE LIVE
111 “Um, Moxie Lobster?”
Unusual approaches to the crusty crustacean By Briana Bononcini
141 “Sipping Pretty” By Clif Travers
101 “Still Hot” Interview with rocker Fito de la Parra of Canned Heat
193 CORNER TABLE
“Beloved”
David’s 388
By Colin W. Sargent
135 Shellibrate Lobster Rolls Your Way! Paprika? Sourdough? Brioche bun? Mayo? Butter? Lettuce? All are fighting words up here, because there is [Not] just one way to make a lobster roll in Portland, Maine
By Nancy English
196 SELECT AREA RESTAURANTS
SHELTER
229 TALKING WALLS
“Grace Notes”
By Colin W. Sargent
238 NEW ENGLAND HOMES AND LIVING
CULTURE
255 LAST WORDS
“Labor Day Breakdown”
By Michael Kimball
CRUSHES
60 FURRY FRIENDS
62 ON THE WATER
76 MADE IN MAINE CELEBRATION
152 VISIT THE KENNEBUNKS
158 MAINE WEDDING GUIDE
237 VISIT FREEPORT
172 CAMPING, MOUNTAINS, LAKES, AND LODGES
176 VISIT RANGELEY
180 MIDCOAST
185 BOOTHBAYS
COLIN W. SARGENT
Founding Editor & Publisher
ART & PRODUCTION
Art Director NANCY SARGENT
Associate Publisher JESSE STENBAK
Design Director CLAIRE HANLEY
Design MEAGHAN MAURICE MERCEDES VILLENEUVE
ADVERTISING
Advertising Executive ANDIE EWING
Advertising Executive PER LOFVING
Advertising Executive LIZ NABER
Home Loans for Maine
EDITORIAL
Contributing Editor CLIF TRAVERS
Special Features & Archives COLIN S. SARGENT
Special Projects JASON HJORT
ACCOUNTING
Controller JENNIFER LORD
SUBSCRIPTIONS
Subscribe online at www.portlandmagazine.com.
Portland Magazine, aka Portland Monthly Magazine, is published by Sargent Publishing, Inc. Repeat Internet rights are understood to be purchased with all stories and artwork. For questions regarding advertising, invoicing, and payments, call Jennifer Lord at 775-0101.
Letters to the editor are welcome and will be treated as unconditionally assigned for publication and copyright purposes and as subject to Portland Magazine’s unrestricted right to edit and comment editorially. Responsible only for that portion of any advertisement which is printed incorrectly. Advertisers are responsible for copyrights of materials they submit. Nothing in this issue may be reprinted in whole or in part without written permission from the publishers. Submissions welcome, but we take no responsibility for unsolicited materials. All photography has been enhanced for your enjoyment.
Portland Magazine is proudly printed in the USA by Cummings Printing.
For Your Eyes Only
Everyone ’ s got a story about Maine. My brother-in-law Mark has a curious mind. A retired senior executive, he’s also a talented photographer—not just a birder, but a twitcher, a seeker of rare birds. When I visited him in Florida recently, he said, “You know about the tie between Maine and James Bond, right?”
Forget Me Nots
I was shaken, stirred. “Steady now. Actually, no, my dear fellow, I haven’t heard of it.”
Mark drew closer in his chair. “Beyond being a novelist, Ian Fleming was fascinated by birds. He chose James Bond as his main character for Casino Royale because he saw the ornithologist James Bond’s name as the author of Birds of the West Indies in his library.”
As Fleming told e New Yorker in 1962, “I wanted Bond to be an extremely dull, uninteresting man to whom things happened; I wanted him to be a blunt instrument ... when I was casting around for a name for my protagonist I thought, “By God, [James Bond] is the dullest name I ever heard.”
I looked at Mark, waiting for the Maine connection.
“Bond spent summers doing eld research on Mt. Desert Island,” he said. e future bird expert helped his uncle, artist Carroll Sargent Tyson, to discover and collect paintable specimens. e result was 1941’s e Birds of Mt. Desert Island, by Tyson and James Bond.
ACROSS THE UNIVERSE
I write novels while not working in Her Majesty’s Secret Service publishing Portland Monthly. (We’re 40 years old this year!) Recently, I was doing some background research on the El Tovar hotel that teeters over the Western Rim of the Grand Canyon. Like MDI, the oceans of air go on forever from the sheer edge. Our server told us, “I’ve just come from working at an inn on Monhegan Island.”
If I’d glanced out the window sooner, I’d have seen the pu n ying by.
So even when I’m not looking for stories about Maine, they nd me. Please share yours! publisher@portlandmonthly.com
OGLING WALLS
is is beautiful ! [“Portland & Her Sisters,” April 2025]
Amelia Pingree, Timber & Tide, Saco
PRINT IS IN
anks so much for joining us at Newcomers & Neighbors. Really enjoyed your talk. I’m looking forward to reading Red Hands, and thanks for all you are doing to keep the printed word in existence!
Kate Bauer Buck, Kennebunkport
TREE OF LIFE
ank you and others at the magazine for assembling a big spread [“ e Witness Tree,” May 2025] of details, history, and anecdotes about beautiful Deering Oaks Park! I appreciate all the work you put into that story. e place deserves all kinds of love, and your editorial love will be well remembered.
Nancy English, Portland
AN APPLE A DAY
Last week, I was in a waiting room for a doctor’s appointment when I grabbed a copy of Portland Monthly o the rack, the Winterguide 2025. On the cover is a photo of a couple of semi-anonymous winter surfers walking up the beach. I thought, “Hey, I know that spot, Higgins Beach!” On second look, I thought, “Oh wow, that looks just like my old
roommate’s surfboard.” And on closer inspection, I realized, “Wow, this is a photo of me and my brother walking back up the beach after a cold surf session.” Pretty cool moment to say the least. Wesley Sulloway and his brother, Lucien Sulloway, Saltwind Seafarm, Pine Point
“AND WE’LL
TALK IN PRESENT TENSES.”
Just saw the online “Joni in the Birth Room” [May 2025]— what a beautiful original artwork, worthy of a Joni Mitchell album cover!
Please thank Claire for that, and please thank the PM team for the layout and for choosing this story.
ARTWORK BY CLAIRE HANLEY; FILE PHOTO.
I will be purchasing extra copies for my family soon—
Happy Summer and big cheers to all.
Elizabeth Searle, Arlington, MA
COFFEE KLATCH
I was drinking co ee out of my mug this morning and realized it said 20 years on it. You are now celebrating 40. Paul and I want to send along congratulations to you.
XO, Judy and Paul Halle, Durham
SMALL WORLDS
I thoroughly enjoyed your very interesting and entertaining presentation to the Newcomers & Neighbors Club meeting in Kennebunkport. Afterwards, I picked up one of your copies of Red Hands. I note you spent time at Lancaster University. I grew up on the other side of the Pennines near York.
Tim Pattinson, Kennebunkport
NEWCOMERS AND NEIGHBORS BOOK GROUP
Colin, it was a pleasure meeting you at our April meeting, and your invitation to your home in August has been met with great enthusiasm. We will be reading your novel Red Hands prior to meeting with you.
Donna Gomez, Beachside Bookenders
Ferry schedule:
• Deer Island to Campobello 8:30am ADT (7:30am EST) to 6:30pm ADT (5:30pm EST) every hour on the half hour.
• Campobello to Deer Island 9am ADT (8am EST) to 7pm ADT (6pm EST) every hour on the hour.
Season runs mid-June to end of September
Stretching Your Dollar
A “70-foot Indian sculpture” created by Old Town artist Bernard Langlais (1921–1977) in 1969 casts a long shadow this summer. “Located between Cumberland Farms and Holland’s Variety Drug (o High Street) in downtown Skowhegan, the wooden artwork is being o ered by the local chamber of commerce
“for the nominal price of $1... due to challenges of upkeep.”
Requests for proposals are due by July 13.
AllJazzthat
Heading home: the unforgettable leather doors (see our story www. portlandmonthly.com/portmag/ near-east-downeast/) that many great musicians, including Frank , passed through on the way to Portland’s fabled Morocco Lounge at 30 Preble Street in the Wadsworth Hotel have been reunited with the family of the original owners, who love them madly.
On the Loose
For $129K, channel the legendary Portland Jon Legere by having fun on wheels.
GOT STRAW?
The Buy-a-Bale campaign of the Maine State Society for the Protection of Animals in Windham supports recovery for neglected horses. Small bales run as little as $7; large “round” bales cost $90. Pitch in!
Cuties, 46 Market Street
Open for just a matter of weeks, this “All Day Bar” has day and night menus and thumps with energy. Don’t miss the mural painted by Portlander Jenna Pirello. Q. Who used to be here? A. Squire Morgan’s and Petite Jacqueline.
Portland
Portland After Dark Overheard in...
“Hello, Down There”
“Did you know Wharf Street was underwater once?”
Room for Improvement, 41 Wharf Street
This self-proclaimed “halfway-decent bar” is a true cross between a dive bar and a cocktail lounge. Watch the bartender shake his drinks with a fourish behind the neon red sign. “I love the camera!”
PHOTO ESSAY BY AUDREY ESTEVES
Cuties
Room for Improvement
Amigos, 9 Dana Street
Every bouncer, waiter, and young Portlander around will tell you: “Amigos is the spot when going out. You can’t miss it.”
Wharf Street
Street & Co. 33 Wharf Street
Overheard: “The big joke was this town didn’t have a good seafood restaurant. These guys changed all that. Absolutely gorgeous fsh and oysters!”
Papi,18 Exchange Street
LyAnna Sanabria, beverage director, was raised in a Puerto Rican household in Vermont and has been living in Maine, where she has family, for the last fve years. “Everywhere I go, I’m looking to bring saźon and equity to the bar experience.”
Central Provisions, 414 Fore Street
Owners Chris & Paige Gould say Daniel Fox, who worked for the East India Trading Company, constructed this building as a storehouse for provisions on the corner of Fore and Central Street, now Dana Street, directly on the Wharf! Ships would sail right up to the building and unload goods such as cotton, silk, indigo dye, salt, saltpeter, tea, and opium.
Cuties
Mash Tun, 29 Wharf Street
Overheard: “This is my kind of bar.”
A mash tun is the vessel used when brewing beer where the starches in mashed grains are processed into sugars for fermentation. (American Homebrewers Association)
Room for Improvement
Maps, 64A Market St
Every day, this underground speakeasy-style bar has a happy hour hootenanny from 4-6 p.m., plus “trivia for people who hate trivia” every Tuesday at 7.
Gritty McDuf’s Brew Pub, 396 Fore Street
“We were only the 33rd licensed brewery in America and Maine’s frst brew pub since Prohibition,” says co-founder Ed Stebbins.“People told us that beer came from Milwaukee in a can. They were like, ‘Come on boys. What are you trying to do?’”
—from “Gritty’s City,” PortlandMagazine
Islands? In Your Dreams.
“If I could just have a moment to myself!”
JULIA ROBERTS kicks back on her own isle in Hawaii. Beyonce, Shakira, and Eddie Murphy duck phone calls on their own private islands in the Bahamas. Why do people from away crave a home away from home? And why on Earth does it have to be
an island? Here in Maine, didn’t a star from 1940s radio thrillers own Ram Island in Saco Bay? “Only e Shadow knows.”* is summer, 11 complete islands are for sale o Maine’s shores where you can hide away. Consider this your dream portfolio.
STORY BY AUDREY ESTEVES, ALAYNA BLIER & COLIN SARGENT
Island in the Steam
Little Doucet Island, Saint Croix River, Robbinston, 1.25 acres
$299k
ittle Doucet is an interesting island in that it is very near International Waters,” says owner and broker Britani Holloway. “Although it sits in the Saint Croix River, it is close to Passamaquoddy Bay and then the open ocean. It’s a very short distance to the Saint Croix Island International Historic site, known as one of the beginnings of permanent European presence in North America. At low tide… there are exposed rocky beaches around the island.”
A tidal sandy beach beckons from its south side, with a more rugged shoreline on the north and eastern sides. Unique blu s and beautifully shaped rock formations show o the eagles and seals.
“ e age of the one-room, 10 x 16 cabin is unknown, but it’s probably circa 1950s,” Holloway says. “ e siding is locally sourced wood, and new windows were put in last year. A small covered porch opens up to the nearby Canadian shore.”
“I’m not sure why the Saint Croix historic site doesn’t get more attention. It’s part of the National Park Service. I suspect it’s the remote location that leads to the lack of attention....there is that!”
Taxes are $1,679.
The Unlucky Seven
Saint Croix Island was settled in 1604, before Plymouth Rock (1620) and Jamestown (1607). But luck didn’t follow this lady. St. Croix is one of the Seven Lost Colonies, also known as the “Unlucky Seven.”
1. San Miguel de Gualdape, South Carolina, Spanish, 1526, infamous for three things (first European Settlement, the first to bring enslaved Africans, and the first slave revolt in a North American Colony).
2. Ochuse (Pensacola, Florida), 1559, Spanish.
3 Ajacan, 1570, 9 Jesuit missionaries and a kidnapped Powhatan on Chesapeake Bay. What could go wrong?
4. Roanoke, Virginia, 1585, the most famous lost colony, founded by Sir Walter Raleigh.
5. Sable Island, 1589, off the coast of Nova Scotia. Originally settled by convicts brought here by Marquis de la Roche. Only horses survive.
6. St. Croix Island, 1604. Scurvy and starvation led Samuel Champlain and Pierre Dugua de Mons to Port Royal, not much of an improvement.
7. Popham Colony, 1607. Founded by The Virginia Company.
$725k
Now, Voyager
Keene’s Island, Webber Pond, Bremen, 9 acres
Joan H. Gregoire is third-generation Keene’s Island royalty. “It started with my grandmother, Lydia Keene,” she says.
“Lydia wrote e Lydessey: Lydia Keene’s 1899 Voyage Around the World in Her Own Words.” Her original journal is in the collection at Maine Maritime Museum. Here’s the book description, by Joan, to whom the island was passed down:
“Can you imagine living on a wooden [sailing ship] for eight months in 1899
for a trip around the world? Lydia Keene, a teacher at Lincoln Academy, Newcastle, Maine, was asked by a sea captain’s wife to accompany them as a tutor for their daughter on a trip from New York to San Francisco. It was the last voyage of the John R. Kelly, built in Bath... is true story is based on a diary/ journal my grandmother kept. It depicts life on board two ships and was a voyage full of adventure around Cape Horn and Cape of Good Hope [including time]
Francisco Call, 15 August 1899.
Island Property and John Oldham, your island real estate connection.
Island Property and John Oldham, your island real estate connection.
Island Property and John Oldham, your island real estate connection.
With 40 years in the business and over 250 Islesboro closings.
Island Property and John Oldham, your island real estate connection.
With 40 years in the business and over 250 Islesboro closings.
Island Property and John Oldham, your island real estate connection. With 40 years in the business and over 250 Islesboro closings. List Local, go global with our network at your ngertips. Live on an island unlike any other.
List local, go global with our network at your fingertips.
List local, go global with our network at your fingertips.
With 40 years in the business and over 250 Islesboro closings.
With 40 years in the business and over 250 Islesboro closings.
Live on an island unlike any other.
Live on an island unlike any other.
List local, go global with our network at your fingertips.
List local, go global with our network at your fingertips.
Live on an island unlike any other.
Live on an island unlike any other.
The Grace Cottage, Hermit's Point. This magnificent stuccoed Renaissance Revival cottage built in 1918 designed by noted Philadelphia architect, Wilson Eyre commands unsurpassed views from its 8.8 acre peninsular location and 3,570 feet of shore line. Eight bedrooms, seven fireplaces.
The Grace Cottage, Hermit's Point. This magnificent stuccoed Renaissance Revival cottage built in 1918 designed by noted Philadelphia architect, Wilson Eyre commands unsurpassed views from its 8.8 acre peninsular location and 3,570 feet of shore line. Eight bedrooms, seven fireplaces. Replete with all the requisite amenities for an elegant summer's stay including pool, dock and stone lodge. $6,500,000.
Replete with all the requisite amenities for an elegant summer's stay including pool, dock and stone lodge. $6,500,000.
views from its 8.8 acre peninsular location and 3,570 feet of shore line. Eight bedrooms, seven replaces. Replete with all the requisite amenities for an elegant summer’s stay including pool, dock, and stone lodge. $6,500,000.
Iconic and Historic Dark Harbor Village Prime Real Estate. Two lots, two buildings in the heart of summer community and activity. Peg's Giftshop with 1,700 sq ft of retail space and 2,800 sq ft of living space upstairs, even a harbor view from the widow's walk and the former Blue Heron Restaurant with 3,000 sq ft retail or residential space up or down. Restaurant will need significant improvement. $975,000.
Iconic and Historic Dark Harbor Village Prime Real Estate. Two lots, two buildings in the heart of summer community and activity. Peg’s Gift Shop with 1,700 sq ft of retail space and 2,800 sq ft of living space upstairs, even a harbor view from the widow’s walk and the former Blue Heron Restaurant with 3,000 sq ft retail or residential space up or down. Restaurant will need significant improvement. Improved price: $760,000 or separately for $525,000 and $265,000 respectively.
buildings in the heart of summer community and activity. Peg's Giftshop with 1,700 sq ft of retail space and 2,800 sq ft of living space upstairs, even a harbor view from the widow's walk and the former Blue Heron Restaurant with 3,000 sq ft retail or residential space up or down. Restaurant will need significant
view from the widow's walk and the former Blue Heron Restaurant with 3,000 sq ft retail or residential space up or down. Restaurant will need significant improvement. $975,000.
buildings in the heart of summer community and activity. Peg's Giftshop with 1,700 sq ft of retail space and 2,800 sq ft of living space upstairs, even a harbor view from the widow's walk and the former Blue Heron Restaurant with 3,000 sq ft retail or residential space up or down. Restaurant will need significant Charming Dark Harbor Village 1940's Four-Bedroom on sunny .66 acre lot with large landscaped lawn and grounds. Historically welcoming, nine rooms comprise approximately 2,300 square feet of living space with primary first floor bedroom and ensuite full bath, three bedrooms and full bath upstairs. Handsome beam work, rich finish trim, hardwood flooring, tiled kitchen floor and breakfast nook. Step out onto the open deck and covered porch and convenient car port and handy sheds. Just a stroll to shops around the corner and minutes from other $575,000. Now $499,000!
Attractive New Price! Charming Dark Harbor Village 1940's Four-Bedroom
Home on sunny .66 acre lot with large landscaped lawn and grounds. Historically welcoming, nine rooms comprise approximately 2,300 square feet of living space with primary first floor bedroom and ensuite full bath, three bedrooms and full bath upstairs. Handsome beam work, rich finish trim, hardwood flooring, tiled kitchen floor and breakfast nook. Step out onto the open deck and covered porch and convenient car port and handy sheds. Just a stroll to shops around the corner and minutes from other activities. $575,000. Now $499,000!
port and handy sheds. Just a stroll to shops around the corner and minutes from other activities.
Charming Dark Harbor Village 1940's Four-Bedroom on sunny .66 acre lot with large landscaped lawn and grounds. Historically welcoming, nine rooms comprise approximately 2,300 square feet of living space with primary first floor bedroom and ensuite full bath, three bedrooms and full bath upstairs. Handsome beam work, rich finish trim, hardwood flooring, tiled kitchen floor and breakfast nook. Step out onto the open deck and covered porch and convenient car port and handy sheds. Just a stroll to shops around the corner and minutes from other $575,000. Now $499,000!
e Grace Cottage, Hermit’s Point. is magni cent stuccoed Renaissance Revival cottage built in 1918 and designed by noted Philadelphia architect Wilson Eyre, commands unsurpassed
Hermit’s Point Residential Lot. Settle into a well-established subdivision, the ormer race state on a o r acre ot with deeded view easement to West eno scot a . agnificent ar an soft woods, dappled with lush ferns an e ge o tcroppings. ccess rive completed. Building site and view will need clearing once you’ve selected o r pre erre ocation. t is on a quiet peninsula of Islesboro ensured with the homeowner’s association. $285,000.
Meadow Pond Road A-Frame it appro imate eet o waterfront on 20 acres of gently sloping hard and soft wood forest. Fabulous gravel beach, sweeping westerly Penobscot Bay ocean views. Gorgeous sunsets and vistas. Private gravel rive in e ce ent con ition. s erns a o n . s are eet iving space in rame an t o stor a ition i nee finis ing. at ra openings oo ing to t e a provi e a i tiona attractive i ing site possi i ities. .
Location, Location! Near Town Spacious Three-Bedroom Home. Walk to almost everything; store, community center, post o ce to n o ce garage. an to err an ar ar or vi age s ops an amenities go co rse. etac e garage s op o ce. an scape oo e . acres eet road frontage. Open concept design. Two full baths, laundry on e room eve . e room it st area secon oor ami room. om ra iant eat ea ti ar oo oors Much refurbishing/remodeling. Interior freshly painted, new trim or . itc en oor refinis e . on er an accom mo ating ome or an time o t e ear. .
Improved Price! ester ori on rt e ea ater ront i ing ot. ceptiona estern ater vie s o pper e no scot a rom . acres o mi e ar an so t oo an fern glades with 185 feet of bold water frontage and gravel eac es. eep ater access s ita e or a oc . ivision restrictions an green er easement ass re a it ensi ty, and privacy. Soils report available. Compare to appreciate the value for $325,000.
Almost 7,000 Square Feet of Commercial Space in the heart of Islesboro Town Center. Well-established and equipped siness. o etter ocation. a service garage oversi e s op a storage garage a itiona etac e o ce. ver to n nee s a re ia e service garage an o fin t is to e t e an iest. Central to municipal buildings, community center, post office mar et fire epartment an sc oo . ver one rives an no s o to ca . .
Experience Moosehead Lake aboard the historic Steamboat Katahdin, a “living museum” for our community, region, and future generations. Daily cruises, charters, weddings, and corporate events.
Islands? (continued from page 47)
stranded in the Falkland Islands. It is written from a feminine/teacher point of view with photographs and sketches.” e daily diary poignantly and explosively covers the foundering shipwreck o Port Stanley.
So when Lydia came back and purchased Keene’s Island, it meant something. She’d been around the world and considered luscious alternatives!
But what was the attraction for Lydia, who was so well-traveled? “ ey must somehow have carried the sheep out there,” Joan says. “It was good because the island was free
of predators.” A safe space. “My great aunt, my grandma’s youngest sister, would say sometimes there were a hundred sheep on the island, which must’ve been a sight to see.
“Our family built the A-frame house near what looks like a big rock. It makes for a nice landing. e ledge in front of the house is at, so it’s good for pulling the dock up. At low tide, there’s a sandy beach” that appears, then disappears around the island at high tide,” a vanishing resource.
“Sometimes deer swim over. Not long ago, we heard little noises around the cabin, turned around, and here’s a little fawn. It’s a good place with, like I said, no predators.
Of course we have the loons. In the evening, they’ll gather in front of the house. ey kind of have this little meeting. ey’re in the water, and they’re swimming and calling.”
A generation later, “My mother made a trail around the outskirts of the island. We call it Alice’s Nature Trail.”
Realtor Jessica Pooley says, “Most of the people who live on [Webber Pond] are environmentalists who protect it.” $236k
Blueberry
n a clear day, you can see Mount Katahdin!” says Cheryl Drisko, whose family fondly calls Blueberry Island ‘Typhoon Lagoon,’ a Disney reference. e Driskos rst snapped up this island retreat in the 1960s to make a safe community for the Boy Scouts of Munjoy Hill. Among high and low bush blueberries, they learned to swim, kayak, cook, tie knots, and
Typhoon Lagoon
Island, Big Boyd Lake, Orneville Township, 2 acres
build survival skills. A one-bedroom cabin without a bath adds a note of shelter and charm. Nearby, a new modern structure is rising.
“Campers from decades ago have great memories of camping here,” says listing agent Donna Jones, reeling in “bass, pickerel, and perch, and cooking them outdoors over an open re.” ere’s a pause.
“Cheryl’s rst crossing was in a raft. And one of her daughters was holding onto a kerosene lantern
From Milo, travel to Orneville Township and take the Old County Road (dirt), then go 5 miles before turning onto Knowles Landing Road. Slip your kayak into the lake at the boat launch. You have about a half mile to go.
Taxes: $986.
$599k
JLiving History
Esther Island, Bagaduce River, Castine, 4.16 acres
Castine on the Bagaduce River, this wooded island features two small cabins plus a beach on its shoreline. From there, you can see the island’s relative, Emanuel Island. “In 2022, Castine residents voted on name changes for [the former] Upper and Lower Negro Islands as well as a group name for the two. Meguntic,
of Penobscot origin, became the group name, translated as ‘smooth in choppy waters,’ according to the Island Name Change Committee’s (INCC) suggested name change informational sheet.”
More from the sheet: “Both Esther and Emanuel are noted in Col. Gabriel Johonnot’s account book beginning December 25, 1785 to 1790. Col. Johonnot resided in Castine (Penob-
scot) and kept an account book with names, occupation, and places of residence of those with whom he had business. In 1788, Esther is noted with ‘Matthías Rich, merchant, wife, and “girl Esther.”’ Emanuel was noted with ‘Richard Hunnewell, trader, and negro man Emanuel.’ ere is no record of either Esther or Emanuel in later town records or town censuses.”
Gardner Lake Island, Gardner Lake, Marion Township, 20 acres
n off-grid family compound, glamping destination, or smallscale development are possibilities here,” says Stephen Gauthier, project manager at LandVest. is property includes the 18-plus acre main island along with two connected isles, half an acre and one and a half acres each. Known for its boating and warmwater shing (small- and largemouth bass, and white perch), Gardner Lake Island was just a few wet steps away from the former home of MIT’s civil engineering camp known a ectionately as “Camp Technology” between 1912-1953. e mind wanders. Who on Earth might have been out here? Admiral Grace Hopper, the computer pioneer? Aspiring politician Benjamin Netanyahu? Space golfer Buzz Aldrin? Take your boat north for a ride, and you’ll reach even more secluded waters at Second Lake, where you can explore rocky coves and inlets.
Taxes: $579.
$219k
Sweet Escape
Pettengill Island, Androscoggin River, Livermore Falls, 15.5 acres
his urban oasis is just a few hundred yards o downtown Livermore Falls, a springboard for adventure. In atable houses? Paintball?
According to lore, there was once a First Nations trading post on Pettengill Island. “People cruise the banks for arrowheads,” says listing agent Stephen Welsh.
Early accounts of this area identify it as part of the Abenaki territory known as Rockemeka, “great corn place.” Named for Deacon Elijah Livermore (1730-1808), born in Waltham, Massachusetts, the town of Livermore Falls was settled in 1786, then incorporated in 1795. e north side of the island has views of the mighty Androscoggin at the dam. e sides look over the sandy riverbanks toward a patchwork of country farms. Eagles and deer (yes, they swim out) add to the mix, all with views of the city lights. Get here from a public launch on Foundry Road.
Taxes: $172.
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$165k
Splash of Foliage
Narrows Island, Gardner Lake, Marion Township, 3.44 acres
idden in the narrow estuary between Gardner and Second Lakes, Narrows Island is an eye-grabber during the fall because it’s mostly covered with deciduous trees. With a newly updated septic design and an easement in place for electrical service, it’s a comfortable place to fall in love. It’s ideal for kayaking, with 2,300 feet of water frontage.
Taxes: $775.
$175k
Taxes: $1,024. Sanctuary
Wadleigh Pond Island, Wadleigh Pond, Lyman 7.3 acres
A rare York County island with the chance to build “a single structure, or multiple camps.”
$1.06M
Amuse-Bouche
Unnamed island, Presumpscot River, Windham 1 acre
i, is this available?”
Among the over 28 acres lushly described on Facebook Marketplace is this tiny 1-acre wild island. It’s easy to overlook amid of the mainland embellishments:
“ e property o ers a wonderfully forested acreage that ows from the over 844 feet of public paved River Road frontage down to the over 700 feet of incredible Presumpscot riverfront. e river in this area is popular for boating down past the famous Covered Bridge to what is called North Gorham Pond and into the Pleasant River. ere is a special feature here, and that is that the river and a lot of the property is sandy gravel, making it a true gem. e property also has a roughly 1-acre island in the river.”
e panoramic mainland tract seems a rock-solid investment. We recommend you buy that, but also the dream, the island. Take your kayak o your car. Slip it into the water. Forget everything else. Go there. Taxes: it’s complicated.
Full C ircle
Visit the Northern Maine woods lake and river region; plenty to do from hiking, fishing, hunting, kayaking, and boating or experience our miles of snowmobiling, ATV/UTV trail riding, X-Country/alpine Skiing, snowshoeing, skating, and disc/golf courses. Don’t forget the beautiful scenic drives or the potential to visit Canada—our bordering community.
Enjoy our culture and amenities with lodging for all budgets, our year-round events, and festivals—CAN AM Crown Dog Sled Races and the Ploye/Muskie Festival. Our Riverside Park also homes an RV Park where Maine residents* can camp out!
Come visit Fort Kent where all roads lead to great experiences!
Loon Songs
Blake Island, Messalonskee Lake, Oakland, 7 acres
here’s an eagle’s nest out here,” says owner Jeremy Jackson, “along with loons, ducks, and beavers.” Lately, “a mink has been spot-
$350k
Messalonskee is southernmost of Belgrade Lakes, just a 20-minute drive from Waterville. A short boat ride takes you from your mainland dock to the island, approaching the cove on the west side.
Taxes: $5,709.
$525k
Greer Island, Vinalhaven, Penobscot Bay, 5.1 acres
In the Summer of 1960, Jim took me out to the island for the rst time in my life,” says seller Elizabeth Arey of her late husband. “Every summer for the next 45 years and beyond, we planted spruce trees here.” ey also picked wild strawberries sweeter than sugar—a year after Andy Warhol came out with his illustrated book of the same name. If it sounds romantic, it’s because it is. “We slept under the stars.” Just a warm swim from the tip of Vinalhaven. is private retreat comes with a 12- x 15foot shermen’s cabin at the water’s edge and views of Saddleback Lighthouse. “[Greer is] a short run from the Ferry Landing; or drive out Main Street to State Beach Road to the Town Park Preserve at Geary’s Beach.”
Taxes: $3,757. n
FURRY FRIENDS
ON THE WATER
Seven Arctic explorers, one Snowy Owl— what could possibly go wrong? Join Arcturus and his pals Lena, Captain Donald MacMillan, and a crew of friendly research sailors aboard the lovely schooner Bowdoin in 1934. The wounded snowy owl gets a lift from Portland, Maine, to his Arctic homeland. On the way, everyone learns something new in this children’s story inspired by a true adventure. $12.95
Suggested for ages 3 to 9.
Aviator Charles Lindbergh’s aw-shucks schtick is a mask for a monster who destroys strangers and loved ones with equal indifference.
Hunter makes a fortune exposing fraudsters. When he stumbles across the corpse of his German teacher on his old reformatory grounds, he’s certain he is onto something evil and becomes drawn into the mystery.
Unsure who his own father is, Hunter is no angel himself. A former “black ops” military offcer, he knows what he has to do to get the job done,no matter the cost.
Nightmares, hallucinations, and fragments of grisly memories knock on the door of his subconscious. Even the stage prop “Old Sparky” in his new lover’s lurid Grand Guignol connects a deadly circuit in Hunter.
Orisa cards warn of air disaster. Brainy Pia offers a path out of his disintegration. Traveling the globe—Paris, Berlin, Geneva, and London—Hunter can’t resist the magnetic scene south of New York where the Crime of the Century once played out.
Hunter is falling through the universe’s trap door. He’s headed for hell—unless he can redeem himself with one final flight. Now Available as an
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Sticks
Newport keeps Vic Firth drumsticks on the down low while percussion stars like Shelia E. are pounding out the news.
STORY BY BRUCE PRATT
Consider this origination story in the Los Angeles Times: “When Vic Firth [1930-2015] was growing up [in Sanford, Maine], he took weekly lessons on piano, trumpet, clarinet, trombone and drums—plus music theory. Only the drums—and the drumsticks—stuck. Firth, who for 50 years was the Boston Symphony Orchestra’s principal timpanist, also was one of the world’s largest producers of drumsticks. In a factory on the shores
Who knew?
Keith Moon, that’s “The Who.”
DRUMSTICK, PLEASE!
ough ten years have passed since Firth died, his legend has only deepened. All musicians know that you can make a re by rubbing two sticks of wood together. What’s not so clear is, why is there so much secrecy at the Maine plant these days?
SHOWCASING INVISIBILITY
You don’t need to sit in the front row at a concert to recognize the distinct shapes and con gurations of electric guitars and basses. A Fender Stratocaster or Gibson Les Paul is easy to spot. What you can’t see is which brand of sticks the drummer uses, but there’s a very good chance they were made by e Vic Firth Company at their facility up here in Newport.
Though the trum pet was an early love, Firth’s passion was percussion. Best known as a member of the Boston Symphony, he was the orchestra’s youngest member when rst hired in 1952 and principal tympanist from 1956 until 2002. Twelve years into his symphony career, he felt he needed better sticks and began to whittle lighter models from ones he’d purchased. In time, he sourced a Canadian woodturner to replicate his new designs. In 1963, he decided to start a company to make them available for all percussionists. Firth sticks became the gold standard for many of the world’s top drummers. Today, the company uses primarily hickory
If you don’t type in “wooden,” the answer to who makes the most drumsticks in the U.S. comes up Tyson Foods.
from the Tennessee Valley and, for lighter models, maple sourced from
INTERNATIONAL DUET
In 2010, the company merged with Avedis Zildjian, the renowned maker of cymbals and other percussion gear, stating that the two companies would act independently. Later, they added Balter Mallet Company to the corporate mix.
According to the company website, there are nearly 200 Firth endorsees— top players from many musical genres and countries—but they also maintain and encourage relationships with percussion instructors, session musicians, and teachers. Firth was a proli c author of instruction books for both aspiring and professional players.
Between Zildjian, Firth, and Balter, the conjoined company makes hundreds of high-quality products.
For a brief time, the company manufactured pepper mills, salt grinders, and rolling pins as Vic Firth Gourmet, but they sold that business to Maine Wood Concepts of New Vineyard. ose products are now known as Fletchers’ Mill.
SIR? MAY I HELP YOU?
If you’re driving past Newport on
Punk rock trio Random Ideas is the brainchild of China triplet sisters whose passion for human rights electrifes their sound. Meagan Johnson will break out the Vic sticks at Elm City Music camp August 4-8 in Waterville. randomideasband.com
I-95, you’ve just missed the Maine factory, which is marked with a Zildjian sign. On Google Street, it just shows the lake. While so much of the action happens here, the company is headquartered in Norwell, MA. We tried to reach someone there to get some more information but received no reply to several phone messages and email inquiries. e Newport facility is solely a manufacturing site.
HANG ON, SNOOPY
So when I went to Newport to snoop around (hey, I live in the area), I learned from guarded answers that there is no Hall of Fame room or retail store, though there are large photos of some of the endorsees of Firth products in the entrance area. Firth merchandise is available in ne
music stores, and some items are on the website.
“WHY
ARE YOU HERE AGAIN?”
e folks in Newport were friendly but could not authorize any photographs or plant tour. Beyond curiosity, maybe it’s my pride for Maine that has driven me here to the source. eir products touch the world; why do they seem so far away so close to home?
MY PERSONAL MYTHOLOGY
e late Rob Fried, long-time drummer and percussionist for Max Creek and Firth endorsee, was a close friend. When neither of us was on the road in the 1980s and 1990s, we got together or spoke on
When UPS showed up, Rob was ecstatic. A kid on Christmas morning.
the phone most every day. Once his order of sticks was late. Rob knew I’d be driving through Newport and asked me if he made the arrangements would I pick his sticks up on my way home. Ten minutes later, UPS showed up with the package. Rob was ecstatic. A kid on Christmas morning.
Vic Firth died in July 2015 at the age of 85, having built one of music’s top companies by whittling on a pair of drumsticks.
On a whim, we asked Fito de la Parra, the legendary drummer of Canned Heat (see interview, page 105), who will be headlining this summer at the North Atlantic Blues festival. What kind of tricky sticks does he use? Drum roll please:
“Yes, I use Vic Firth 5A.
“And 5B.”n
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Seven Arctic explorers, one Snowy Owl— what could possibly go wrong?
Join Arcturus and his pals Lena, Captain Donald MacMillan, and a crew of friendly research sailors aboard the lovely schooner Bowdoin in 1934. The wounded snowy owl gets a lift from Portland, Maine, to his Arctic homeland. On the way, everyone learns something new in this children’s story inspired by a true adventure. $12.95
Suggested for ages 3 to 9.
By Virginia Souza
Did you know the o cial dessert of Maine is the Whoopie Pie?
or
We make over 20 avors of whoopie pies. Stop by our bakery to nd out why we won the 2024 People Choice Award for our whoopie pies at the Maine Whoopie Pie Festival. We have 20 avors of pies including Maine Wild Blueberry pie. Or try one of our tea cakes, cheesecakes, mu ns or quiches. Visit our bakery in Oxford to pick up a pie, whoopie pie or tea cake.
or
or
Wher e ’ s the Party?
Come join our 1.2 million closest friends. Here’s where to go tonight.
STORY BY DIANE HUDSON
alk about a festival of the unusual. is Summer’s already shaping up to be snap, crackle, and pop-ups.
Ju ne 28
Beckett Castle Open Garden Day, e Garden Conservancy. 1-4 p.m., $10. Self-guided tour of Beckett Castle Rose Garden in Cape Elizabeth. is is an international event. e oceanfront garden sparkles with over
70 varieties of heirloom roses. A 50-foot-high stone tower entry gate doubles as a rose arbor. Sylvester Beckett built the neo-Gothic house in 1871. Wear sturdy shoes, as there’s uneven terrain. e property is home to Hog sh, a nonpro t regenerative
arts movement. Careful: live music will be performed during the day.
Ju ne 29
Water Lantern Festival, 5:30-9:30 p.m. Design your lantern, with rice paper and wood, and launch it at the pond at Deering Oaks Park in Portland. Experience the magic of thousands of lanterns as the soft lights re ect upon the water.
J u l y 7
Wayside Pop-Up Picnics, 5:30 p.m. Each summer, Wayside partners with Cultivating Community, the Book Fairy, Locker Project, Garbage to Garden, the City of Portland, the Children’s Museum,
Lavender Festival, Berwick.
Maine Red Hot Dog Festival, Dexter.
various local businesses, and a host of local musicians to produce PopUp Picnics at community gardens. Celebration locations: Payson Park Community Garden, Portland, and July 21, August 4, and August 18 at other venues in Portland.
J u l y 11-20
Maine International Film Festival, Waterville. Nearly 100 movies from all over the world. Learn about the lm industry, and take in the cultures you wouldn’t get to experience without an international ight. Representing the best of independent American and International cinema, and spotlighting some of Maine and New England’s most exciting and innovative lmmakers.
J u l y 17
Voices By Design, Maine Coast Fisherman’s Association, presentation and talk, 6:30 p.m., Co ee By Design, Diamond Street, Portland.
J u l y 18
Brownstone Brews & Bites. 5:30-8:30 p.m. Celebrate the Victoria Mansion’s 19-year partnership with Allagash Brewing. Enjoy food, beverage, live music, and rst- oor Mansion tours, all
included with your ticket—109 Danforth Street, Portland.
J u l y 19 & 20
Lavender Festival 2025, Brooks Lane, Berwick, 10 a.m. Saturday until 2 p.m. Sunday; fees vary. A celebration and showcase of the local creative community with the Lavrynth, a triple-spiral Labyrinth of Lavender; lavender cook-o ; and the chance to cut your own lavender bouquet. Make a ower crown, shear sheep, spin bikes, tour farms, enjoy live music, and descend upon the Terra Firma farm-to-food truck.
July 19,
Augus t 23
Mini Horse Yoga, 2 p.m., $23 Immerse yourself in a rejuvenating outdoor yoga experience hosted by Impact Horse on the Eastern Promenade, Portland. It’s sixty minutes, beginner-friendly. Enjoy a unique opportunity to connect with nature and nd inner peace alongside Toast, the beloved miniature
therapy horse.
July 25-27
Maine Yoga Fest, SMCC, 2 Fort Road, South Portland. Practice your sun salutations and experience a wide variety of yoga workshops across multiple styles. Festival vendors o er an array of products and services, and there will be local food trucks and live music.
J u l y 26
Greater Portland Festival of Nations, Deering Oaks. A vibrant celebration of cultural diversity. Sample ethnic food, dance, and listen to music from around the world. A cherished tradition (23rd year) for many residents and visitors, this festival is a testament to the rich cultural tapestry of the Portland area.
J u l y 26
Maine Grain Alliance Bread Fair, Skowhegan State Fairgrounds. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., $5. Free for children and MGA members. A one-of-akind fair dedicated solely to real bread and everything associated with this ancient and central staple, with over 60 vendors. Workshops (separate fee) include New YorkStyle bagels, Introduction to Sourdough Baking, and Free Tempeh Workshop with Tootie’s Tempeh.
Brownstone Brews & Bites at the Victoria Mansion.
Greater Portland Festival of Nations, Deering Oaks.
J
u l y 26 & 30
Svadba, Halo at the Point, ompson’s Point, Portland. Wedding, 7-10 p.m. Attend a Serbian a cappella opera by Ana Sokolovic inspired by women, ritual, and Balkan folk music, followed by the Balkan Brass Band “Conical Cacophony.”
J
u l y 27
Maine Open Farm Day. Celebrating Maine agriculture year-round at state-wide locations, Open Farm Day is your special chance to visit a farm and discover more ways to enjoy farm products 12 months a year! Explore host farms throughout the state, rain or shine, and see Maine agriculture where it happens. Visit RealMaine.com for tips for a good visit and a list of participating farms.
July 27
Island Ripple Run, Diamond Cove, Great Diamond, and Little Diamond Islands. A four-mile race around two islands in beautiful Casco Bay. Participants enjoy ocean views as this run follows picturesque island roads and wooded paths around Great Diamond Island and across the sand bar that attaches Great Diamond to Little Diamond. All proceeds go to the Dennis Farrell Memorial Scholarship Fund at Ripple ect, located on neighboring Cow Island.
Augus t 2
Tales of Bells and Drums, Merrill Auditorium, Portland, 6-7 p.m. A show of talented artists determined to tell stories of their lives through dancing and drumming.
Augus t 9
Maine Red Hot Dog Festival is Dexter Development Association fundraiser is designed to attract a large number of people to the town. Food, crafts, beer/wine tents, Hannaford’s Red Hot Dog Eating Contest, magician, four Red Hot stages with live entertainment all day.
Augus t 10
Botanicals and Brews, Flight Deck Brewing, 11 Atlantic Avenue, Brunswick, by New England Plant Expo ME, 12-5 p.m. is exotic plant market features a large variety of uncommon-to-rare plant vendors, as well as botanically themed artisans and crafters. A family- and dog-friendly event with plants,
crafts, and brews—learn how to grow in surprising ways!
July 19, 20,
26, 27 and August 2, 3
e Maine Renaissance Faire, Acton Fairgrounds. As the knights are pre-
sented in glorious style to the crowd and the heralds cry the pairings, soon the thunder of hooves and clash of lances breaks through the roar of the crowd! Experience the thrill of the joust and the squeeze of the corset! Armored knights battle it out for the title of tournament champion. Who will be victorious?
Augus t 16
Paella Party, Rosemont Market and Bakery, Scarborough, 1 to 3 p.m. $10. Watch a chef make paella on massive pans using local ingredients from Harbor Fish Market and Rosemont Market. Free wine tasting and more.
Augus t 24
Portland Fine Craft Show, 120 Free Street, Portland, 10 a.m. to 5
p.m., free. Featuring over 100 juried exhibitors from Maine and the greater Northeast, the show brings to light a wide array of high-quality craft work including basketry, ceramics, ber, furniture, glass, jewelry, leather, metal, mixed-media, paper printmaking, stone, and wood. Experience demonstrations, outreach booths spotlighting New England and Portland arts organizations, craft guilds, and schools by invitation.
J u l y 26 &
Augus t 9
Naked Bike Rides, Portland. Last, but not at all least, there will be two “Naked Bike Rides” in Portland this year. Given deepening global and domestic tensions, the PDXWNBR leadership team decided that community needs to take center stage this year. e new theme is “Baring All and Building Bridges,” and organizers say it’s all about “strengthening our local community and its support systems.” Wait! “PDX”? at’s not “PWM”! Guess you’ll have to y to the “other” Portland for this one. n
Diane Hudson has been a happy resident of Portland (Maine) for 50-plus years and a contributor to PortlandMonthlyMagazine for 30 of those years.
She’s hoping the party won’t end with new property revaluations and taxes imposed.
Water Lantern Festival, Deering Oaks.
Paella Party, Rosemont Market and Bakery.
Fito de la Parra is
Still
after six decades.
We reached Adolfo “Fito” de la Parra, the surviving member of the original Canned Heat, at his Santa Maria, California home just north of Los Angeles.
Canned Heat will perform at the North Atlantic Blues Festival in Rockland on July 13. Our 100,000 readers are loving that!
Yes. I’m thrilled to come because we haven’t played in Maine—ever! Besides, we have a new record on the charts after a 50-year absence. I have a good feeling about this. It’s called Finyl Vinyl, one last Boogie. is may be the last record we’ll make, but we’ll see.
You guys few into Woodstock by helicopter. What a swarm. Did the crowds look spectacular from the air?
Oh, it was wonderful, but I have to admit I didn’t want to go to Woodstock in the beginning. I didn’t know what it was. We’d just lost [band members] Henry Bestine, then Harvey Mandel, just a week before Woodstock. I was not in a good mood when Skip Taylor, our manager, woke me up with the exciting opportunity. Driving was impossible. So when we saw press members going into a helicopter at White Plains
STORY BY COLIN W. SARGENT
Hey we heard you’re in town, WE’D LOVE TO SEE YOU! Come by for a curated cocktail, dinner, or artisanal in-house made gelato.
Sincerely, your Sweet Friends Sinceramente, i
vostri Dolci Amici
Airport, we just followed them. Into the chopper, without tickets!?
They asked us what we thought we were doing. We told them, “We’re going to report the news.” You might say we had to hijack the helicopter. As we got closer, we looked down and realized what 500,000 audience members looked like.
What was that like on stage?
e real heroes were the roadies. ey are the infantry of rock and roll. Our guys left the previous night and drove for 12 or 13 hours, moving cars o the road with the truck and asking fans to help them. Our hello landed at 4 p.m. We made it! I don’t even know how we ended up there.
Maybe I shouldn’t say this. But does “Let’s Work Together” speak to the world during the summer of 2025?
I sure hope so. We’ve been talking about that song lately and the great message it has with the political situation.
Who’s your favorite big-band drummer out of the past? Buddy Rich played at Old Orchard Beach Pier in Maine in the 1930s and 1940s. I love Buddy Rich, Max Roach, Art Blakey, and Gene Krupa. While I was growing up in Mexico City, my father turned me on to all this music and old black-and-white swing movies. Gene Krupa was my favorite.
I looked through the Woodstock program and saw the irrepressible Keith Moon. Did you meet Moon, the drummer of The Who, at Woodstock?
Not then. But Keith Moon came to see me backstage at e Starwood in LA once. He didn’t say a word. He came close, grabbed me, and kissed my hands.
How deeply did Robert Johnson inspire you guys?
Not only Robert Johnson. Most of the pioneers of country blues inspired us. We were di erent because we wanted to go back before Chicago Blues—to Charlie Patton and Blind Willie. [Canned Heat co-founder] Alan [“Blind Owl” Wilson] knew most of their songs note by note. On records, they listened to the lyrics
again and again. He and [fellow founder] Bob “ e Bear” Hite would spend hours trying to gure out what they were saying.
How many people nowadays do you run into who know that Sterno is the joke behind Canned Heat?
Not many people.
How do you explain it to them?
It comes from the Sterno can, which is industrial alcohol used in little heaters. During Prohibition, people in the South used to squeeze it through a sock and then drink it. You feel good for a couple of minutes. A buzz. But it’s much more dangerous than alcohol. It’s poison, like drinking gasoline. Sterno, canned heat, was the drink of the desperate. I never tried it, but Bob and Henry [“ e Sun ower” Bestine] did.
How do you like your lobster cooked?
I’m a lobster lover, so I hate that lobsters su er when boiling. I try to avoid eating it, but I will try it in Maine. Otherwise, it’s like going to Mexico and not eating a taco.
What’s the strangest place you’ve ever been when you’ve heard your music being played? I just saw Forrest Gump on TV, and your music helps defne that show!
It feels good whenever that happens. “Going Up the Country,” you still hear it on commercials. at’s one of the songs that turns up when I’m not expecting it.
Who are some of the most unsuspected fans of Canned Heat that our readers might have heard of?
Jackie Kennedy was there when we played Carnegie Hall with John Lee Hooker. And Abbie Ho man. You’ve gotta have hope for the world if those two people are in the same room.
Who’s your favorite writer?
I love to read. I like Stefan Zweig’s memoir e World of Yesterday. He’s
the same writer whose novella inspired the movie e Grand Budapest Hotel en there’s the Danish writer Sven Hassel [who’s so popular in England but shunned in his own country].
How will you shake up your new material with us in Maine?
It depends on the night we’re playing and our vibration. I know we’ll play “Boogie,” because everybody plays a solo. It sets the tone for the songs ahead.
What was it like recording “Rockin’ with the King” in person with Little Richard—decades after you frst heard him as a boy on the radio in Mexico City?
Little Richard was my rst record! I was 13. Here’s Little Richard. I played it for hours. at’s when I set up my rst drum kit with cooking tins, a 1950s ashtray that sounded pretty good as a cymbal, and my snare drum from the military band of my school. Boxes. I just got into that Little Richard, a state of bliss. A state of ow, which only music gives you. e state of ow. You forget everything.
How about exotic percussion instruments like the güiro?
I play the güiro, the claves. I love things because I come from Mexico. I’d play them even if it weren’t my thing because, you know, I love rock and roll, blues, and jazz. I’ve always loved La Sonora Santanera.
I know what Island time is. What are ‘musician’s hours’?
I go to sleep between 12 and 1 in the morning. I want to get up around 9 or 10, except my cats wake me up at 4 a.m. Even if they aren’t hungry, the assholes wake me up anyway. What can I tell you? ey’re the boss.
Don’t bring them to Maine!
ank you for your interest in my band. See you backstage for a beer and a joint. n
MAINE
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Who Needs a Jetpack?
The ffty-foot journey.
Arnaud has a spring in his step. His hop and jump are springy, too. e lithe and powerful South Portland High senior is Maine’s rst high school athlete to break fty feet in doors in the triple jump. At USM’s
STORY BY BRIAN DALY
Costello Field House in Feb ruary, he jumped ¾ inch at’s out there. And when the indoor track season ended, he was ranked fourth in the country among high schoolers, only 6
e triple jump is a horizoneld event like the long jump but with three linked phases: hop, step, and jump—bing— bang—boom. When Arnaud Sioho does it, it’s BOING!—
ort, he sprinted along the runway, planted his left foot,
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went airborne, and landed once again on his left foot. at was the hop. He jumped again, this time landing on his right foot. at was the step, and it was a long one. Even though he was stretching out for distance and spending time in the air, he maintained his momentum and could launch himself into the jump, the nal phase. He landed in the pit with a splash of sand and entered his name in the record book.
“I didn’t think it was that long,” he says. “I didn’t feel fast on the runway.”
After landing, he walked out of the pit casually and untied his shoes. en he heard the announcer say how far he had jumped. “I couldn’t believe it,” Sioho says.
Coach Dave Kahill could believe it. “Arnaud is athletically gifted,” he says, “and incredibly competitive
and focused on improving himself.” Kahill, a football and track standout at South Portland High and Bowdoin—New England Division III decathlon champion—has developed drills to tune Sioho’s natural speed and strength and re ne his technique. Sioho, a student of the sport, is soaking up the coaching.
“When I triple jump, I attack the ground,” he says. “I hit it fast, aggressively, and just let it go.”
Besides his remarkable success in the triple jump, Sioho has won state titles in the long jump, high hurdles, and intermediate hurdles—not bad for a guy who joined the track team because he missed basketball tryouts as a freshman. Mike Owens, his physical education teacher, saw him
dunking when he was still under six feet tall and suggested he try track.
Maybe it was in the cards that Sioho would get together with Kahill. e Sioho family moved here from Burkina Faso when Arnaud was in the eighth grade. About twenty years before that, Kahill visited his sister Erika while she was serving in the Peace Corps in—you guessed it—Burkina Faso.
If you think of Arnaud Sioho’s track and eld career as a triple jump, he’s still in the hop phase. e step phase will happen at the University of Rhode Island, where he will study data science and compete on the track and eld team. After the step comes the jump, and with his athletic talent and dedication to the sport, who knows where he’ll land? n
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Um, Moxie Lobster?
Don’t miss these off-the-beaten-path dishes from around the state.
STORY BY BRIANA BONONCINI
When you think of food in Maine, lobster rolls and blueberry pie generally come to mind as classic state dishes, but there are plenty of other tastes around the state that will let you ex your foodie muscles and discover everything else Maine has to o er.
UNI YOU
While not entirely unique to Maine, uni can be found o the cold waters of the coast and has become increasingly popular to seafood fans up here. Rich, buttery, and briny, this edible part of a sea urchin is a delicacy. If French poet Leon Paul Fargue called eating an oyster “Like kissing the sea on the lips,” then uni is like
getting to second base with Neptune himself. In Portland, it isn’t uncommon to nd uni at restaurants with extensive raw bars, but one notable dish is the Uni Spoon from Izakaya Minato on Washington Avenue. At this small Japanese spot, you can enjoy your uni with quail egg yolk, ponzu, and tobiko. It’s the perfect bite when you want to experience the ocean without getting wet.
MOLTO MOXIE
Moxie, Maine’s o cial state soft drink, has come a long way from convenience store shelves to entering the culinary world. Chefs love Moxie for its unique taste: bitter, herbal, slightly sweet, with notes of licorice. You can now nd everything from Moxie cheesecakes to Moxie BBQ sauces. Cooked down into a glaze, it works incredibly well with BBQ pork.
ere is now no shortage of Moxie dishes all around the state. At Harbor Burger Shack in Kittery, order the Aye Aye Smokehouse Bacon Burger if you want to try a classic burger covered in their own Moxie BBQ sauce. Just up the street, you can have Moxie in its more traditional form, liquid, in a Moxie Old Fashioned at Robert’s Maine Grill. Once you’ve fully fallen in love with all the ways to enjoy Moxie, make sure you don’t miss the Moxie Festival, held yearly during the second week of July, in Lisbon, Maine.
CLEVER PLOYES
Holding a special place for the Acadian people, ployes are particularly popular in the Madawaska region of northern Maine. ey are a simple and unique atbread that is traditionally made with buckwheat our.
Like pancakes, the batter is cooked on a skillet until bubbles form and the edges dry. But unlike pancakes, ployes are only cooked on one side, giving them a more atbread-like texture. Served sweet or savory, ployes are harder to nd in restaurants, but if you make your way to Madawaska, Chez Helen Restaurant touts Acadian-American cuisine and o ers ployes alongside potato fricasse and chicken stew.
Beyond these, Maine’s culinary scene is a constant evolution, with chefs creatively incorporating local ingredients in unexpected ways. e next time you nd yourself looking for something new, venture beyond the familiar and discover your new favorite Maine dish. n
Briana Bononcini has written for Bon Apettit.
Medicinal Plant Sciences -DE
Bachelor of Science Degree (B.S.) Length: 34 months
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Associate of Applied Science Degree (A.A.S.) Length: 18/36 months
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Associate of Applied Science Degree (A.A.S.) Length: 20/40 months
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Pri
Architecture
CCannabis. Li s
by
an you guess what these Cannabis retailers were in their past lives? You can get all your favorite cannabis products at these venues today, but what were they a minute ago? Last year? A hundred years ago? Let’s do the time warp again with these seven pot-shops.
Jar: Once the Holy Donut, founded by Leigh Kellis. Today Jar Cannabis Co. is owned by Joel Pepin, one of the state’s earliest medical marijuana caregivers. Flashback to 1854 and this Exchange Street business greeted us as Daniel Fox Grocers. Fox, specializing in goods from the West Indies, constructed a sister building at 414 Fore Street as a provisions storehouse, according to Portland Downtown and Maine Historical Society. 9 Exchange Street.
Captain’s Cannabis: Formerly the
Corner General Store, run by Cary Cox, which closed in 2020 along with many others due to COVID-19. But in 1924, this building was a clothing store run by Russian-Jewish immigrant Abraham Robinson e store even featured a social hall, Robinson Hall, where dances and labor group meetings took place, including the Portland Lodge of the Jewish organization B’nai B’rith, according to Maine Preservation Society. 115 Middle Street.
Fire on Fore: Run by co-owners omas Mourmouras and Leo Paquette, this space was formerly known as Momentum Barbershop, now at 52 Exchange Street. In 1924, this haberdashery was run by Polish-Jewish immigrant Lizzie R. Silverman, née Sulkowick, which inspired the Americanized version of the name that once graced the entrance to the store:
STORY BY LAUREL FAYE
FINE LIVING
Sulkowitch. 367 Fore Street.
Cannabis Cured: e only shop on our list to have been a cannabis biz twice over. Once known as Venus & Mars Dispensary, then Pearl Ultra Nightclub, and Pearl Martinis & Wine before their rebranding. In 1894, the building was a foundry run by Chase E. Babbitt, an iron & brass founder, coppersmith, and machinist. e building itself was owned by Alma C. Manning, who maintained two additional homes: the Beaux Arts style dwelling at 50 Avon, and her West End respite at 163 High Street. 442 Fore Street.
Hazy Hill Farm: Remember the days of Boost Mobile, and I/O Computer Service Inc.? Both set up shop at this Congress Street location. Now, the dispensary is run by David Stephenson, who has future plans to open a medical dispensary in the area as well. We’re swinging back to 1920, when the building was owned by J.B. Brown & Sons, Portland royalty in many regards, since founder John Bundy Brown, an American Industrialist, also ran the Portland Sugar Company, which processed molasses imported from the Caribbean. Brown likewise was the largest landowner at the time, with over 400 acres of property in Portland’s West End. Brown commissioned John Calvin Stevens & John Howard Stevens Architects to design 484 Congress Street is J.B. Brown & Sons location was a private banking house before being converted into a real estate business, which still operates today out of 10 Free Street
e Green Well: Formerly All Temp Services, and CHART: Custom Chart and Map Accessories, owned by Janice Sears. Now the dispensary is run by general manager Abraham
Kau man. In 1914, Sarah Lerman, a Jewish woman from Poland, owned the space and ran it as a corner store with her husband, Louis Lerman Before that? Back in the Old Country, Louis was a Junk Peddler, and Sarah, who nished high school and was literate, worked as a bookkeeper. 1 Pleasant Street
Vice Cannabis: Formerly Hallowed Ground Tattoo (now at 633 Congress Street). Husband and wife duo Travis and Phoebe Carter run the shop together. In the past, Alice Bradbury Libby owned several proper ties, including this home address in a hotel out of the West End. While her husband, Charles Freeman Libby—who was a politician and lawyer from Maine, serving as President of the Maine Senate and, later, the American Bar Association—ran as a Republican in the Senate, Libby’s father, Bion Jeremiah Bradbury, headed the Democratic Party of Maine. Talk about no politics at the dinner table! 609 Congress Street. n
Dérangement,
A New Break
Maine has always been a borderless state–‘untarrifed.’
STORY BY RHEA CÔTÉ ROBBINS
Trying to reflect on these times and their outcomes resembles what I learned while living in Northern Maine—the future’s trading market for potatoes. Who knows the future of our tourist, bi-border-living market regarding these tari ed land-
scapes? Except the real Maine terrain presents as near borderless.
NOUS SOMMES
LA FAMILLE
e connections between the people on the landscape per the biology of DNA attest to the cousins we are, once/twice/thrice removed. Despite
the chain migration of French Canadians, up to one million mondes came to live and work in the top tier. Northern New England, plus New York since the 1830s, means there are almost 200 years of physical separation between us. e memory fails to present that reality—the border between the US and
Canada, now tari ed like the border for many, is man-made and invisible. e same connectivity is true for the English/Canadian daily exchanges between New Brunswick and Maine—shopping, visiting with relatives, and taking in the local attractions.
ON CONTINUE
e invisibility of the border presents the opportunity to reconnect with the reasons why Maine o ers a home away from home for so many. e real revolution would be disregarding the tari s as an unnatural phenomenon and Tourist On!/Allons-y!
À L’ANCIENNE
But Maine has to earn back its reasons why Maine is the hostess with the most.
UNE MAIN TENDUE
Proof of life of the connections is in order. e o cial Maine tourism travel planner and adventure guide lists some of those natural connections, but here is an opportunity to strengthen the natural hands across the border.
PERDU DANS LA TRADUCTION
e acts of genericizing the histories of Maine extend the problematics of being Franco-American in the state, given the track record. We must remain aware of the emotional tari s exacted on the people who immigrated here two centuries ago. Historically and in modern times, the gentri cations—posed as erasures of the history that connects the two nations—present a challenge to overcome the thinking ingrained in the fabric of who Maine thinks it is. At the same time, something very di erent exists in
reality–caché, hidden.
À LA FOLIE
Instead, think of this as a time to rededicate to the truth of geography—bridges built during times of fragmentation. e landscape itself de es the tari ed divisions imposed by the unlearned and unknowing.
LA RAISON D’ÊTRE
If we are not First Nations, Autochthones, or Indigenous, the other borderless peoples, then we are all “from away”—every one of us. We can unite on the note of our origins—none better than the other, and celebrate the actual di erences, not genericized, as proof of our strengths. Not erasing, but an opportunity, reaching far into the future, to gain mutual knowledge of who we are—untari ed. n
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It began with a family dinner and a halfserious idea: “Let’s make our own whisky.” That playful spark turned into a passionate pursuit for father-and-son team Dave and David Woods - two makers at heart, fascinated by how things are built. What followed was years of research, trial, and relentless craftsmanship. They didn’t just learn how to distill - they hand-built their own copper pot stills, honoring techniques nearly lost to modern mass production.
Every curve and dent in their stills contributes to the rich, complex flavor of their small-batch spirits. The result? Awardwinning whiskey, bourbon, gin, vodka, agave, single malt, and rum recognized internationally - but rooted right in York, Maine.
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Photography by Nick Eaton
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World
String on a
From her start in Northborough, Massachusetts, to artistic director for the Portland Chamber Music Festival, Grammy-nominated violist Melissa Reardon takes us on a tour of her rise through the classical music world.
STORY BY LAUREL FAYE
My first instrument was a wooden spoon, painted red by my childhood music teacher, with two strings attached. She called them ‘pre-violins.’
“I was a little Suzuki kid. I played that until they gave me a child’s violin. My mother returned it and gave me a viola. But viola strings aren’t made for children’s ngers. It’s an adult instrument, typically picked up in high school. You don’t come to viola until later in life, but my mother decided it was to be the instrument I played.
Why chamber rather than solo?
“It all comes down to the nature of the instrument. e viola’s voice is darker: the mezzo to the violin’s soprano and the cello’s alto. Its very nature determines that its voice cannot cut through an orchestra. Instead, it supports the overall aural quality of the orchestra. It’s also a whole lot less lonely. Being a soloist means practicing alone and performing alone. Chamber certainly has those moments, but we’re always focused on the communal aspect—what we can make together. It’s a democratic endeavor: you need to come together to discuss how to play the music. I love teamwork, but I love the repertoire of the chamber more.”
When was the moment you almost quit, but didn’t?
“I moved to New York after graduate school at the New England Conservatory. And let me tell you, the starving artist cliche is very much alive! I learned what it
GOOD VIBRATIONS
meant to try and be a musician. I was depressed, forlorn, and wondering if I would ever be able to support myself.
ere was a very real moment in which I considered leaving music.
“And then suddenly, I get a call with a chance to audition with a string quartet in the city. Next thing I know, I’ve spent twelve years with them, touring the world. We were called Ensō String Quartet, derived from the Japanese symbol which signi es both the emptiness and completeness of creativity, wrapped in a calligraphic emblem. In modern Japanese, the word means ‘to perform.’’
Where did you perform?
“We toured through South Korea and played at the DMZ in a rice eld at the edge of the border. ere was a tent set up and a makeshift stage—but everywhere around us were rice elds.
“I played in Colombia, in an open-air church without a roof. It felt no di erent than standing amid the Amazon. Wild parrots perched in the branches of the jungle ora that hung over the empty ceiling—all I remember thinking was, ‘Please, God, don’t let them poop on me!’
“ en there was this time in Canada. We were in a rural eld, and they had us standing in blackberry bushes. Not in front of them, in them.
“But then the quartet went its separate ways. It’s a lot of sharing space: hotels, beds, cars, you name it. But I miss the closeness. I’d been interested in putting concerts together for a long time. So, I started the East Coast Chamber Orchestra, which was more formalized and only came together several times a year. But it helped me understand the logistics. I organized the tours; I had a hand in the repertoire. All of that pushed me to start a festival or look for one.”
Which brought you to Portland?
“Yes! Jenny Elowitch—the founder and former artistic director of the Portland Chamber Music Festival—put on a concert and I managed to catch the performance. at night, I asked her about the festival and she con rmed they had an opening. I had no clue it meant that she would be stepping down and that I would then step up to ll her place. I took over from her in 2019. She’d been the director for 25 years at that point.”
Was that your frst time here?
“I have a sweet connection to Portland. When I was just a young violist, I was a member of the Portland Symphony from 2000-2003. I was astounded by its growth when I returned to the city after being away for so long. Not just the music scene, but the city as a whole. During COVID, when the festival went online, I remember how the city came together to support music and the arts. It was challenging, yet inspiring, to support and embrace music-making during such a hard time, in the face of such isolation.”
What don’t they tell you about being a woman in classical music?
“In school, I didn’t have a sense of the dynamics of the power structure of music. Once I hit the professional world…well, it’s unavoidable. You get unwarranted comments from conductors, fellow players, and audience members on your physical appearance, sometimes even a rude gesture. I understood that things were not balanced. I had to nd my boundaries, ensure I was not compromising my morals, and protect myself.
“But the industry now has evolved. e past problematic and sexist behaviors have mostly died out. ough you do sometimes get the occasional moment where you cock your head and go, ‘Huh, what an odd thing to say.’
Summer Festival
“ ere still aren’t as many women playing certain instruments, like the bassoon, double bass, or trombone, but there’s a shift. More of us are soloists, commanding world stages. I feel fortunate that I came up in the era of these changes. We’re still working to ensure everyone receives the same opportunities in the same way.”
What’s your favorite piece to play?
“Whatever I’m playing right now. Currently that’s Beethoven’s later opuses: 130, 131, 132, and 133. It’s the richest and deepest of his music. He wrote them at the very end of his life, where he turned back to the quartet in his last years as a composer. ey’re complicated emotionally, physically, and technically, yet they contain his most profound music.”
Which makes you want to pull out your hair?
“Funny you say that. Berio’s Sequenza for solo viola. It’s physically taxing. You have to play so loud, for so long, that all the hair on my bow once popped out.
“Yet music still can bring me back to myself. It’s a love/hate thing. It’s the thing that takes me from my family, strings me along through crowded airports, and leaves me with injuries. I need to separate sometimes to heal psychologically. It’s complex and laborious, and sometimes, in the middle, you lose sight of why you started in the rst place.
“And yet, when I’m in these moments, I’m still capable of being shaken back into its incredible beauty. e other day I listened to a recording of Mendelssohn and just started crying. I was completely unprepared. at’s why I do this, because it does that to me.”
Do you have any good viola jokes?
“What’s the di erence between a vacuum cleaner and a viola? You have to turn on the vacuum cleaner to make it suck!” n
Visit Maine’s Oldest Lighthouse
Portland Head Light 1791
The Museum & Museum Shop
Shellibrate
Way! Lobster Rolls
aine food culture has grown up around lobster rolls, a foundation meal that’s now going the fusion route. In Portland, you can enjoy it your way. “I can appreciate that a real Maine lobster roll has mayo, but I like butter on mine,” cionado. And
Lobster Co.
(104 Exchange Street, Portland) sells brioche rolls lled with four ounces of lobster meat ($30) and the mango habanero or any of nine others, including butter. How
One of Highroller’s owners, Peter Bissell, says, e buttery sweetness of brioche complements lobster in a way that still allows the meat to be the star of the show, especially once it’s topped with… our
Luke’s Lobster
Bite into Maine
(31 Diamond Street, Portland, or at Fort Williams Park, Cape Elizabeth, and soon at e Downs, Scarborough) started in 2011 at Fort Williams, selling the same six styles
o ered now. “At rst, people weren’t used to seeing, for instance, a curry lobster roll.” Nowadays, people sometimes object to chives. Sarah Sutton, co-owner with Karl Sutton, her husband, said the Maine style with mayonnaise comes with those chives—kept o if requested. e Maine lobster roll is by far the best seller.
ry three mini rolls here (and at Highroller). Picnic Style, with a layer of creamy coleslaw, fresh lobster with hot butter, and celery salt, is Sarah’s favorite—creamy/crunchy/buttery all at once. Like Highroller, Bite into Maine uses brioche rolls. Lobster is sourced from three vendors that process it in Portland and Scarborough, and they might go through 1,500 to
2,000 pounds of lobster meat in a week.
“We sing a lot,” Sarah says, “‘We built this city on lobster rolls’ is our version of the Starship song.”
Luke’
s Lobster
(60 Portland Pier, Portland) takes lobster from catch to plate, picking the lobster meat from freshly cooked lobsters brought to the dock by its own contracted lobstermen.
Shelbi McCarthy of Luke’s Lobster says, “All of our lobster rolls at
Some American Stories
Extraordinary art awaits you in the Lunder Wing
Robert
Duncanson,
The Lunder Collection. Photo credit: Luc Demers.
Bite into Maine.
The Highroller Lobster Co.
Photo by: NJC Photography
Portland Pier are prepared ‘Luke’s Way.’ We butter and griddle a New England-style, split-top bun, add a swipe of mayo to the inside of the bun, ll it with either 4, 6, or 8 ounces of fresh lobster meat, drizzle it with warm lemon butter, and sprinkle it with a dash of our secret seasoning.” at’s celery seed and more—or swap the lemon butter for either bass-note white tru e butter or spicy honey butter
The Lobster Shack at Two Lights
(225 Two Lights Road, Cape Elizabeth) provides the ocean view with waves crashing on rocks kids love to explore—and a past that extends to the 1920s. is historic enclave remains devoted to mayonnaise, serving each toasted hot dog roll with a little shredded lettuce, a pickle, lots of fresh lobster meat, and a mound of mayo—to add in or not as you like. Owner Katie Porch says, “We’ve bought lobster meat from the Klenda family business in South Portland for years.”
It’s not just the lobster roll that tastes good, the secret ingredient is, it’s a lobster roll with the excitement of Maine wrapped around it.
Maybe a sea breeze, crashing surf from an o -shore storm, or the screech of seagulls who are savvy in the ways of diners at the Lobster Shack, ready to ransack a tray unprotected, make the sweetest sauce for a lobster roll of all—as if the ocean itself is singing along. n
HOURS: TUESDAY - SATURDAY - 3:00 - 8:30
Sipping
Pretty
Four laidback libations to help beat the heat.
STORY BY CLIF TRAVERS
It was a long time coming, but the warmer and sunnier season is upon us. Time to slide into the ip ops, don those fabulous shorts, and sit back in your Adirondack with a refreshing bevvie. We’ve got that last one covered with four cocktails created to toast the season.
The Cape-irinha
If anyone knows about heat and how to beat it, it’s the Brazilians. Back in the early 20th century, a combination of rum, lime, garlic, and honey was combined by landowners as a remedy for the Spanish u. But it wasn’t long before the garlic was nixed, and the sugar and ice were brought into the mix. e Caipirinha became the national cocktail, eventually nding its way to bars around the world. Ours combines some local avors with those of Sao Paulo.
In a cocktail shaker: Muddle 6 wedges of limes with 1 heaping Tbsp. of Brown Sugar by Bakery until the sugar is liqui ed.
Add:
1 oz. fresh lime juice
2 oz. Three of Strong American Agricole Rum Ice and shake.
Pour all the contents into a rocks glass.
Garnish with a lime wheel.
1950s. It combines grapefruit, tequila, and salt, making it a perfect summer refresher for the heat of Maine’s summer. Whereas the Paloma honors the dove, ours pays tribute to that vocal, sometimes annoying bird—the seagull. Our version of this classic adds a healthy juice and a little spice. Perfect for a day of lounging on the deck with some George Baker on the turntable.
On a small plate, combine:
½ c. kosher salt
1 tsp. chili powder from Maine-ly Drizzle
Rim a rocks glass with a wedge of lime and twist the glass into the above mixture, creating a thick lip of spicy salt.
Add:
2 oz. blanco tequila
2 oz. Skin Glow Juice from Maine Juice Co.
2 oz. seltzer.
Fill with ice. Stir. Garish with a wedge of grapefruit.
No straw required.
The Asian Pear
Looking for something a little more sophisticated for that dressy booze cruise around Portland Harbor? Nothing says summer elegance like a martini glass with something boozy and refreshing. A sake martini made with local spirits will elevate any party, whether cruising on a
In a cocktail shaker, combine: Maine Distilleries Cold River Vodka
Strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with a wedge of pear.
Garden Party Punch
Whether you like the “drop-ins” or not, they’re gonna happen this summer. Neighbors and relatives will descend upon your pool, your deck, your boat—expecting suitable beverages for the season. Don’t hide from the guests. Welcome the throngs with an easy sparkling punch that’ll make any last-minute visitor want to come back. We suggest you give them the recipe, and maybe they won’t need to. is punch will serve six and is inspired by a summer favorite: the Aperol Spritz, a cocktail created in Italy in the 1950s.
In a large punch bowl, combine:
1 sliced cucumber
1 sliced orange
¼ c. light agave
½ c. mint leaves
1 750 ml of Morphos from Oyster River
Ladle into a large goblet with ice and a cucumber slice.
Cold River Gin
Winery
A Little
“Bailey Island Dippers”, Arthur Salve, Southern Maine Astronomers.
Night Music
Your Guide to This Summer’s Stars.
STORY BY JOHN HALEY
It ’ s 4:30 a.m., and I can ’ t sleep. I roll out of bed, put some clothes on, and step outside to watch the Earth move. Most of the year, in the pre-dawn darkness, I can look above
the pine tree in my neighbor’s yard and see Polaris. On this day in late July, however, while the Sun hasn’t risen, it’s too bright to make it out. It’s there, though. It always is. Unlike every star in the sky, Polaris doesn’t appear to move; everything moves around it. Because it’s directly above the North Pole, it holds a constant place in our sky, day or night. While throughout the dark I can watch the Big Dipper spin on
the record of the sky around it (or more correctly recognize that I’m on the turntable of the Earth), I know this bright morning that the point of the North Star is in the same spot it always is and that the other stars are making circular paths around it.
There is another way the world moves, but it takes longer to see. Each night, the Big Dipper will do its turn on the catwalk, but watch throughout the year and its orientation around the North Star will change. In fall evenings, it will appear as a pot for cooking apples; in the winter, it hangs like an icicle, and in the spring it’s ipped down, pouring rain. e night before, I may have seen the scoop sticking into the air, like a new sapling’s leaves.
Daily motion is caused by a spin-
ning Earth, but seasonal changes are caused by something else: our Earth ying through space. roughout the seasons, it looks like the Sun moves through a set of constellations, called the zodiac. is morning, it rests in front of the dim crab of Cancer. e illusion is that, relative to the Earth, the Sun is stationary. ese movements are our own. As we orbit the Sun, we look at it from di erent directions against the other stars.
Polaris doesn’t appear to move; everything moves around it.
We are not alone in our space voyage. As I continue my journey, I keep an eye on three fellow travelers. Jupiter rests below the power lines in the feet of Gemini, Venus above them in the horns of
Taurus, and Saturn high in the sky in Pisces. While Saturn is set to swim with the sh for two more years, Jupiter, closer to the Sun and counteracting greater gravity there with higher speeds, will only continue through the twins for 10 months. Venus is, of course, closer still and thus moves faster. Because it revolves within our own circuit around the Sun, in a way we orbit Venus, too. For this reason, we can never look fully away from the Sun and see Venus. is attachment earns Venus the monikers “Morning Star” and “Evening Star,” and despite not being a star at all, will quite likely be the rst star you see at night.
These movements are our own. As we orbit the Sun, we look at it from different directions against the other stars.
Mercury Cancer to Leo
Watch the Solar System move throughout August!
Visible in the eastern early-morning sky, end of August.
Visible in the eastern early morning sky.
Visible in the western evening sky frst week of August, then blocked by the Sun.
Jupiter
Visible in the eastern early-morning sky, rising earlier each morning and higher in the sky before dawn throughout August.
Visible throughout the night, rising in the east early in the month. Gets higher in the sky throughout the month.
Moon
Moving west to east across the evening sky early in the month, getting fuller until the 9th. After the 9th, it wanes and rises later and later in the night sky. On the 16th, it rises at midnight as a third-quarter moon, then disappears into the daytime light as new moon on the 23rd. Visible again as an early-evening crescent at the end of August.
August 1st
August 30th
Also look for...
A triangle of stars high in the sky.
Called the Summer Triangle, these three stars are in three different constellations: Aquila the Eagle, Lyra the Lyre, and Cygnus the Swan. Follow the arc of the Big Dipper’s handle to a bright star called Arcturus, in the heart of a kiteshaped constellation called Boötes.
of Sagittarius Horn of Capricorn Tail of Sagittarius
PIsces Head of Virgo Libra
We
are not alone in our space voyage.
While these orbits exhibit variety, one thing is consistent: the track on which they travel. You may recognize the constellations these planets rest in from your daily horoscope. ese planets, and all the rest, follow that same zodiacal route we do. e paths are an artifact of the formation of the solar system. When the Sun formed, it was surrounded by a cloud of material. As gravity pulled the cloud in, it spun faster. is fast-moving debris collided with itself, clearing the way for survivors traveling in one direction, on one plane. is spinning disk became a series of rings, which
became the three planets I see on my trip, the four I can’t see, and the one I’m standing on.
My path eventually leads me to the shore. As the red sky grows yellower, there’s one last view I hope to catch. I sit at Willard Beach and watch as the sky grows brighter. As the bright red ball crosses the line
that splits the ocean from the sky, I resist the temptation to call it a sunrise and instead think of it as the Earth turning to face the Sun. n
John has taught astronomy and a wide array of other sciences in environmental centers, museums, high school classrooms and college campuses for the last two decades. You can now visit him at the University of Southern Maine, where he runs the Southworth Planetarium.
An extended exposure image of stars in the night sky. At the center of the circular paths of these stars is Polaris, the North Star.
en ea ound
The Lodge at Kennebunk is set on a quiet 8 acres of land, and has convenient highway access. It is also minutes away from shopping, dining, and beach options. Our facilities include a 40' outdoor heated pool, a conference room, a game room, a playground, picnic tables, and gas barbecue grills. Our amenities include extended cable television, air conditioning, phones, refrigerators, and microwaves in every room.
elu e ont nental eak a t and ed nte net o ldw de all each a e hannel lu o e hannel o e on emand ke ental
Andy Gagne Photography
Photo Credits: Team Notaro Photography & Stephanie Strydom & Kat Moraros
Animal Art/Garden Elements
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PHOTO BY BRAEDON FLYNN
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Located on Attean Lake, "the most beautiful lake in Maine", we offer all-inclusive lakeside cabin rentals Maine on a 24-acre island just outside of Jackman, Maine.
Our Facilities
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Discover our historic Victorian B&B on the waterfront in lovely Boothbay Harbor, one of Maine’s prettiest harbors. Steps away from acclaimed shops, galleries, boat trips, and restaurants, the Inn is an ideal launching point for several days of coastal exploration. Welcoming visitors with true Maine warmth and unique style for generations. Please call for seasonal rates & specials.
Discover our historic Victorian B&B on the waterfront in lovely Boothbay Harbor, one of Maine’s prettiest harbors. Steps away from acclaimed shops, galleries, boat trips and restaurants, the Inn is an ideal launching point for several days of coastal exploration. Welcoming visitors with true Maine warmth and unique style for two generations. Please call for seasonal rates & specials.
Harbour
Inn
Andie Elwell, “Boat Coat,” acrylic
Su er’s
New Stage
Good Theater has a new home—Portland’s cultural heart just got a little wider.
STORY BY BRIAN DALY
ife is improv.”
at’s what Gusta Johnson, executive director of Good eater, says about the unscripted challenges of running the theater with co-founders Brian P. Allen and Steve Underwood.
Artistic director Allen agrees. “We just roll with it.”
In 2002, Allen and Underwood did the paperwork to start their nonpro t theater and found themselves about to launch with no name for their company. Yikes! ey tried to work with “Casco Bay” and “Coastal” and “Maine,” but nothing clicked.
en when a friend asked Allen what
he was going to do, he said, “I don’t know. I just want to do good theater.”
Ding!
And Good eater came to life.
“We’ve never had a plan,” says Allen. “We just say yes.”
ey started producing shows that made people feel good. Patrons went back for more, and over the years, Good eater developed an enviable subscriber base and became the state’s largest employer of theater artists.
en, in February of 2024, Allen and Underwood got word that it was time for them to leave the St. Lawrence Arts Center, now called e Hill Arts.
Uh oh.
“It was pretty sad,” says Allen. “What would we do?” ey rolled with it.
And they got lucky. Developers Collaborative invited Allen and Underwood to take a look at the auditorium in the former Catherine McAuley High School on the campus of Stevens Square at Baxter Woods, a 55-plus community on Stevens Avenue in Portland.
Bingo.
It wasn’t easy to turn a high school auditorium into a professional theater, but Underwood, who is a designer as well as an actor, was up to the challenge. He not only planned the
renovation, he and his crew provided the sweat equity that kept construction costs down. Good eater’s supporters came through, too, donating $850,000, an “extraordinary” response, says Allen. A fund-raising consultant who told him Good eater was “doing everything wrong” didn’t account for the bond between Good eater and its loyal patrons.
Now Good eater runs Stevens Square eater, presenting their plays and musicals and renting the space out for music, dance, comedy, and theatre. With the help of ingenious curtain-like partitions, the number of seats can be adjusted easily to t the event. Executive director Johnson says the theater feels intimate even when it’s set up for an audience of 480. e roomy venue has plenty of rehearsal space and room to store props and set pieces, which means Allen and Underwood don’t have to keep two co ns and a sarcophagus in their cellar anymore. ere’s a large parking lot, and there are no stairs to climb, so getting into the theater is easy, and the airy lobby is attractive and welcoming.
“ ere’s room for us to grow here,” says Allen. With the expanded seating comes expanded o erings, including a cabaret series featuring top-notch Broadway musical performers like Lillias White (Hadestown) and Julie Benko (Funny Girl) who are eager to play Portland. Alma Cuervo (On Your Feet!) says her two favorite regional theaters are the Alley in Houston and Good eater.
So Gusta Johnson is right: Life is improv, and magic can happen when people say yes and roll with it. Just ask the patrons and actors— even the Broadway stars—who have made the move from Munjoy Hill to Stevens Square. ey’ll tell you Good eater in its new home is “gooder” than ever. n
Beloved
David’s 388 hits its marks in South Portland’s adorable Cape Cottage neighborhood.
STORY BY COLIN W. SARGENT
avid ’ s downtown restaurant at 22 Monument Square is the one we think of as the agship.
In Kennebunkport, another wonderful David’s once anchored the waterfront. Here in Cape Cottage, nestled so close to Portland Players, the oldest community theater in Maine, David’s 388 might as well be
the beloved canteen.
We stop by on a warm summer night and enjoy the way the chef and
Here, taste has a sense of place.
sta here have a theater of their own, in full view of the handful of charm-
ing tables and snug booths. For appetizers, we love the crispyon-the-outside, creamy-on-the-inside Arancini ($14), a generous four spheres, perfect for sharing, accompanied by crème de brie, arugula, and red peppers. Talk about an overture. Next, we share a Strawberry & Spinach Salad ($14.50)—tangy, sweet, and sexy, with “candied pecans,
Portland Lobster Company “Maine’s Best Lobster Roll,” lobster dinners, steamers, fried claims, chowder. Enjoy live music daily w/ ice-cold local beer or fine wine on our deck overlooking gorgeous Portland Harbor. 180 Commercial St., 775-2112, portlandlobstercompany.com.
The Corner Room features bright, wideopen space with towering ceilings complemented by handcrafted woodwork. Patrons can expect a warm, comfortable atmosphere, marked by the arich aromas of house-made pastas, pizzas, antipasti and artisanal breads. Come and enjoy the taste of Venice in the heart of Portland, ME! 879-4747, 110 Exchange Street. Visit thecornerroomkitchenandbar.com for more information.
Boone’s A Portland landmark since 1898. Original home of Alexander Boone’s world-famous Baked Stuffed Lobster. Two waterfront decks, two full bars, two cozy dining rooms, fireside tables. Perfect setting to enjoy the finest seafood from Maine and the world. Steaks, chowder, lobster rolls, grilled dishes, daily features. Visit Boone’s for a romantic date, business luncheon, family gathering or large banquet. BoonesFishHouse.com
Bruno’s Portland’s Best Italian, Market Surveys of America. Silver medal, Best Italian, Best of 207. Seriously delicious Italian, American, seafood dishes with signature in-house pasta (Bruno’s Pasta Co. goodies entice in statewide culinary stores). Great sandwiches, pizza, calzones, soups, chowders, salads. Lunch/ dinner in dining room or tavern—casual
dining as an art form. 33 Allen Ave., 8789511, restaurantji.com/me/portland/ brunos-restaurant-and-tavern-/
Docks Seafood We pride ourselves on our Maine roots. Our mission is to source our seafood locally and regionally. This is noticed by discerning diners who appreciate the value of their food being made fresh from scratch. Our bar features a rotating list of Maine craft beers and signature cocktails. Hours are 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Wed.-Sun.
Maria’s Ristorante Portland’s original classic Italian restaurant. Greg & Tony Napolitano prepare classics: Zuppa di Pesce, Eggplant Parmigiana, Grilled Veal Sausages, Veal Chop Milanese, homemade cavatelli pastas, Pistachio Gelato & Maine’s Best Meatballs. See our own sauce in local stores. $11.95-$22.95. Open at 5 Wed.-Sat. Catering always avail. 1335 Congress Street 772-9232, mariasrestaurant.com.
DiMillo’s On the Water Now’s the time to enjoy everything DiMillo’s has to offer: fabulous dishes prepared by Head Chef, Melissa Bouchard, voted one of Maine’s Chefs of the Year, plus Certified Angus Beef, Italian and the best lobster around. Our outside dining is unparalleled. Open Monday thru Saturday at noon, Commercial St., Old Port 772-2216. Always FREE PARKING while aboard.
Flatbread Company Portland Situated on the working waterfront next to Casco Bay Cruise Lines in Portland’s Old Port. Family-friendly restaurant with signature wood-fired, pizzas, fresh salads, local craft beer, spirits and local, organic fresh ingre-
dients. Pet friendly, deck seating on the water during summer. 72 Commercial St., 772-8777, flatbreadcompany.com.
Joseph’s by the Sea in Old Orchard Beach offers breathtaking views of Saco Bay. Enjoy indoor dining, outdoor seating, an upstairs lounge, and a rooftop deck. We specialize in locally sourced seafood and fresh Maine lobster. Closed for the season, we’ll reopen in March. Contact us at info@josephsbythesea. com or call 207-934-5044 for more info.
Hurricane Restaurant We are celebrating our 35th year as a Restaurant serving New England Cuisine with an international twist. Lobster & blueberry pie! Local produce and seafood, fresh shucked oysters, full bar, award-winning wine list, and an in-house Pastry Chef. Sunday brunch. Dinner served seven days a week, lunch on Saturdays, and Brunch on Sundays starting at 11:30am. Bar menu is always available. Good restaurants come and go. Great restaurants get better and better. Reservations suggested. 29 Dock Square, Kennebunport. 967-9111, hurricanerestaurant.com
Discover Oun Lido’s, Portland’s newest culinary gem at 30 Market St. Chef Bounahcree “Bones” Kim blends Cambodian and Cantonese flavors in standout dishes like twice-fried lemon chicken, lemongrass beef skewers, and savory stir-fried noodles. Named one of Esquire’s Best New Restaurants of 2024, this cozy spot offers both takeout and indoor seating. Open Tuesday–Sunday, 11 AM–8 PM. Call 207-554-3111 or visit ounlidos.com to order.
Biddeford’s first Brewery
Conveniently located in downtown Biddeford. Offering a variety of beers, curated cocktails, and a full menu of upscale pub food in a casual, family-friendly environment. Now offering brunch on Sundays. Dogs are welcome on our expansive outdoor deck. Open 7 days a week.
sandwiches
BON VIVANTS
Music
1932 Criterion Theatre, 35 Cottage St., Bar Harbor. Lucius, Jul. 24; Griffin William Sherry, Jul. 25; Barrington Levy, Aug. 28. 228-0829.
Aura, 121 Center St. The Taste of Armageddon, Jul. 10; The Record Company, Jul. 12; Dark Desert Eagles, Jul. 18; Taylor Dayne, Jul. 25; One Night of Queen, Aug. 26; Portland Yacht Rock Festival 2025, Aug. 29. 772-8274. Bay Chamber Concerts, Hammer Hall, 5 Mountain St., Camden. The Verona Quartet, Jul. 31; The Verona Quartet & Nola Richardson, Aug. 1; Envision Workshop Faculty Concert, Aug. 6; Conrad Tao, Aug. 7–8; Envision Workshop Student Concert, Aug. 8; Thomas Wolf, Aug. 9; Mozart in the Morning, Aug. 13–17; Screen Door Festival, Aug. 13–17. 236-2823.
Blistered Fingers Bluegrass Festival, Litchfield Fairgrounds, 30 Plains Rd. Featuring local & national bands, enjoy some of the greatest Bluegrass music at one of the largest family musical events in New England, Aug. 21–24. 873-6539.
Blue, 650A Congress St. The Singer Adriana & El Malo, Jul. 5; Christo Sedgewick & The Fabulous Regrets, Duncan Pelletier, & Tom Federle, Jul. 17; Sue Sheriff Jazz & Savoire Faire, Jul. 26; Stillwater & Pythagoras, Aug. 14; Open Mic,
One night only
Bonnie Raitt, Aug. 28 at Maine Savings Amphitheater.
every Tues.; Jazz Sesh, every Wed. 774-4111.
Blue Hill Bach, see website for locations.
Events featuring the music of J.S. Bach & his contemporaries with educational events throughout the Blue Hill peninsula. Jul. 15–19. bluehillbach.org.
Camden Opera House, Camden Snow Bowl, 20 Barnestown Rd. Outerspace Band, Aug. 3; Gawler Family Band, Aug. 10; Primo Cubano, Aug. 17; The Right Track, Aug. 24. 236-7963.
Celebration Barn Theater, 190 Stock Farm Rd., South Paris. [Project Creatine], Aug. 30. 743-8452.
Deertrees Theatre, 156 Deertrees Rd., Harrison. Piano Bar & Open Mic, Jul. 10 & Aug. 28; Nashville Revue with Jonathan Sarty & the New Country Gentlemen, Jul. 12; Sebago Long Lakes Music Festival, Jul. 15, 22, 29, Aug. 5, & 12; Susie Pepper & Ali Butler, Jul. 17–18; Big Yellow Taxi, Jul. 22; Yesterday Once More, Aug. 24. 583-6747.
Denmark Arts Center, 50 W. Main St. The Half Moon Jug Band, Jul. 4; Black Cat Road, Jul. 11; Stretta Trio-Irish, Jul. 18; Al Hospers Birthday Band, Aug. 1; Palaver Strings Quartet, Aug. 2; Hildaland, Aug. 9; Carlos Angeles Olmeda, Aug. 22; The Shadow Riders, Aug. 30. 452-2412.
Good Theater, Stevens Square Theater, 631 Stevens Ave. Julia Gagnon, Jul. 12; Comes the Dawn: Songs & Stories, Jul. 25–26; Scott Moreau, Aug. 2; Kouchera, Aug. 29. 835-0895.
Hackmatack Playhouse, 538 School St., Berwick. Sundays at the Farm: White Mountain Ramblers Jul. 6; Mainesqueeze, Jul. 13; Tuckermans At, 9 Jul. 20, Inanna, Sisters in Rhythm, Jul. 27; North Village, Aug. 3; Claudia & Some Familiar Faces,Aug. 10; Dan Blakeslee & the Calabash Club, Aug. 17; Gnarly Darling, Aug. 24; The Bottom Dollars, Aug. 31; Ellis Paul, Aug. 10. 698-1807.
MAINE LIVE ’25
Bowdoin International Music Festival, see website for Brunswick locations. Over 175 free and ticketed events including concerts featuring world-class musicians, student performances, composer lectures, masterclasses, community concerts, Jun. 30–Aug. 8. bowdoinfestival. org.
Cadenza, 5 Depot St., Freeport. Casco Bay Tummlers, Jul. 5; Sophie Patenaude, Jul. 11; 2nd Chance Ukulele Band & Pretty Girls Sing Soprano, Jul. 12; Memphis Lightning, Jul. 17; Heather Pierson Trio, Jul. 19; Rees Shad, Jul. 26; Carole Wise, Aug. 16; Songwriter Showcase, Aug. 24. 560-5300.
Camden Opera House, 29 Elm St. Ju’Lia, Jul. 18; Noel Paul Stookey, Aug. 29. 236-7963.
The Hill Arts, 76 Congress St. The World Famous Grassholes, Jul. 10; Peter Gallway, Jul. 26; Memphis Lightning, Aug. 15; Emily Sclar & The Galaxy, Aug. 16; Alaska Sargent, Nebita, cnri, & Christy Armstrong, Aug. 17. 347-7177.
Jonathan’s Ogunquit, 92 Bourne Ln. Knickerbocker All-Stars, Jul. 4; Buckwheat Zydeco Jr. & The Legendary Ils Sont Partis Band, Jul. 6; Howie Day, Jul. 10; Tom Rush, Jul. 11; Johnny Cash Tribute Show, Jul. 13; Jon Pousette-Dart, Jul. 19; Memories of Patsy, Jul. 24; Rust Never Sleeps Band, Jul. 26; Something Wonderful Tonight, Aug. 1; The Joni Project, Aug. 8; Johnny A Trio, Aug. 15; Iris Dement, Aug. 22; Duke Robillard & His All-Star Band, Aug. 29. 646-4777.
Maine Savings Amphitheater, 1 Railroad St., Bangor. Def Leppard, Jul. 1; Old Dominion, Jul. 3; Kidz Bop Live, Jul. 5; The Lumineers, Jul. 15; Shania Twain, Jul. 22; The Black Crowes, Jul. 29; +LIVE+ & Collective Soul, Jul. 30; Chicago, Jul. 31; Bret Michaels & Vince Neil, Aug. 2; Goo Goo Dolls, Aug. 5; Volbeat, Aug. 12; Brit Floyd, Aug. 21; Chris Young, Aug. 22; Luke Bryan, Aug. 24; Billy Idol, Aug. 26; Bonnie Raitt, Aug. 28; Hardy, Aug. 29; Melissa Etheridge & Indigo Girls, Aug. 30. 358-9327.
Buckwheat Zydeco Jr. & The Legendary Ils Sont Partis Band on Jul. 6 at Jonathan’s Ogunquit.
Maine State Music Theater, 1 Bath Rd., Brunswick. Sidesaddle Stampede, Jul. 6–7; Victor Trevino, Jul. 27–28; Double Vision, Aug. 18. 725-8769.
Merril Auditorium, 20 Myrtle St, Portland. Hear Here: A Maine Music Festival, Sept. 5 - 7. 370-4784.
North Atlantic Blues Festival, Public Landing, Rock-
One Longfellow Square, 181 State St. Aztec Two-Step 2.0, Jul. 12; Falcon Ridge Folk Festival, Jul. 18; Thompson the Fox, Jul. 23; Jake Xerxes Fussell, Jul. 24. 761-1757.
Opera House at Boothbay Harbor, 86 Townsend Ave. Cecilia, Jul. 3; Pure Prairie League, Jul. 6; The Wolff Sisters, Jul. 10; James Keelaghan, Jul. 12; Kalos, Jul. 16; Steep Canyon Rangers, Jul. 18; Jigjam, Jul. 22; Tommy Emmanuel, Jul. 23; Kevin Kiley & Friends, Jul. 26; Tom Rush & Matt Nakoa, Aug. 2; The Henry Girls, Aug. 6; Rob Ickes & Trey Hensley, Aug. 7; Session Americana, Aug. 15; Seth Glier, Aug. 20; Tinsley Ellis, Aug. 22; Heather Pierson Trio, Aug. 29. 633-5159.
Portland Chamber Music Festival, Hannaford Hall, 88 Bedford St. 32nd Summer Festival, Aug. 14–23. 320-0257.
Portland Conservatory of Music, 28 Neal St. Paul & Kate, Jul. 17; Maine Middle Eastern Orchestra, Aug. 3; Seal Bay Festival, Aug. 6. 775-3356.
Portland House of Music, 25 Temple St. The Disco Biscuits, Jul. 13; Plush, Jul. 19; Bumpin Uglies & Kash’d Out, Aug. 6; The Red Eye Flight Crew, every Mon. 805-0134.
Portland Symphony Orchestra, Seaside Pavilion, 8 6th St., Old Orchard Beach. & Beyond The Stars, Jul. 12. 842-0800.
Saco River Theatre, 29 Salmon Falls Rd., Buxton. Nathan & the Zydeco Cha Chas, Jul. 18; CJ Chenier & the Red Hot Louisiana Band, Jul. 26. 929-6473.
Seaside Pavilion, 8 6th St., Old Orchard Beach. Maine’s 195th Army National Guard Band, Jul. 4; Mark Schultz, Jul. 8; Deep Blue C Orchestra, Jul. 15; Blues & Jazz Festival, Jul. 19; Jason Gray, Dave Pettigrew, & Ricki George, Jul. 22; Jim Brickman, Aug. 6; Randy Armstrong & WorldBeat Marimba, Aug. 9. 934-2024.
State Theatre, 609 Congress St. The Disco Biscuits, Jul. 12; St. Vincent, Jul. 19; The Decemberists, Jul. 20; Kurt Vile & the Violators, Jul. 21; Ben Folds, Jul. 22; Lucius, Jul. 23; flipturn, Jul. 24; Wild Rivers, Jul. 25; Drew & Ellie Holcomb, Jul. 26; Mary Chapin Carpenter & Brandy Clark, Aug. 1; Guster, Aug. 8; Watchhouse, Aug. 15; Josh Ritter, Aug. 21. 956-6000.
Stone Mountain Arts Center, 695 Dugway Rd., Brownfield. The Kruger Brothers, Jul. 5; Super Summer Stone Mountain Live, Jul. 11; Heather Masse & Jed Wilson, Jul. 12; Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Jul. 17; Freddy & Francine, Jul. 18; Steep Canyon Rangers, Jul. 19; Haggard & Cashed, Jul. 25; Mary Chapin Carpenter, Jul. 19–30; Marc Cohn, Jul. 31; Tom Rush, Aug. 1; Song Stage, Aug. 2; Peter Rowan, Aug. 13; The Faux Paws, Aug. 15; Antje Duvekot & Goodnight Moonshine, Aug. 23. 935-7292.
Stonington Opera House, 1 School St. Hymn For Her, Jul. 15; 25th Annual Deer Isle Jazz Festival, Jul. 18–19;
Experience a dynamic mix of premier performances, gallery installations, flms, and artist talks. Join artists from all over the world in Lewiston, Maine for the biggest dance event in the state!
DON’T MISS THESE OUTSTANDING SHOWS!
JULY 11–AUGUST 1, 2025
Tickets from $5–35 on sale June 1
JULY 11 & 13
Ragamala Dance Company Invisible Cities
JULY 17
Rob Flax’s Boom Chick Trio Concert on the Quad
JULY 18 & 19 OzuzuDances Space Carcasses
JULY 23
Moving in the Moment
JULY 25
Gesel Mason Performance Projects Yes, And - Maine
JULY 28
Musicians’ Concert
JULY 31 & AUG 1
Bill T. Jones/ Arnie Zane Company
“a top dance destination in America” – The Portland Press Herald
“Maine summer would never be the same without the Bates Dance Festival.”
– Audience Member
Bailey’s Mistake, Jul. 25; DaPonte String Quartet, Jul. 31; Broadway Comes to Stonington, Aug. 21 & 27. 367-2788. Strawbery Banke Museum, 14 Hancock St., Portsmouth. Tuesdays on the Terrace: Twangtown Paramours (Jul. 1), Cold Chocolate (Jul. 8), Kids’ Night feat. Mr. Aaron (Jul. 15), Caitlin Piper (Jul. 22), North River Music (Jul. 29), High Strung Strummers (Aug. 5), Raquel & the Wildflowers (Aug. 12), Kids’ Night feat. The Clemenzi Crusaders (Aug. 19), Liz & Dan Faiella (Aug. 26). (603)433-1100.
Thompson’s Point, 207 Thompson’s Point. Dispatch, Jul. 3; Dark Star Orchestra, Jul. 11; Father John Misty, Jul. 12; Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, Jul. 18; Iron & Wine and I’m With Her, Jul. 19; The Avett Brothers, Aug. 5; The Flaming Lips & Modest Mouse, Aug. 7; Guster On The Ocean, Aug. 9–10; The Dead South, Aug. 13; Lake Street Dive, Aug. 16–17; Gregory Alan Osakov, Aug. 22; 12/ OC, Aug. 23. 956-6000.
Vinegar Hill Music Theatre, 53 Old Post Rd., Arundel. Caroline Rhea, Jul. 5; Adam Ezra Group, Jul. 6; Sunny War, Jul. 9; Linda Eder, Jul. 10; Higher Ground, Jul. 11; Duke Robillard, Jul. 13; Sophie Patenaude, Jul. 16; The Stray Horses, Jul. 17; Erica Brown & The Bluegrass Connection, Jul. 20; Classic Rock Orchestra, Jul. 25; Graham Nash, Jul. 26–27; Palaver Strings, Aug. 3; International String Trio, Aug. 13; Everybody Knows, Aug. 14; Three Kings of the Blues, Aug. 17; Little Lies, Aug. 22; Wake Up Mama, Aug. 23. 985-5552.
Waldo Theatre, 916 Main St., Waldoboro. Guts Baroque, Jul. 12; Little Lies, Jul. 18; Captain Mike & The Shipwrecked, Aug. 3; Robert Jon & The Wreck, Aug. 12. 975-6490.
Waterville Opera House, 1 Common St. Karla The High Kings, Jul. 9; Tommy Emmanuel, Jul. 24; Trampled by Turtles & Breakin’ Strings, Jul. 26; Little River Band, Jul. 27; Postmodern Jukebox, Jul. 29. 873-7000.
WW&F Railway, 97 Cross Rd., Alna. Music on the Railway: Darlin’ Corey (Jul. 13), Breakin’ Strings (Aug. 2), World Famous Grassholes (Aug. 10). 882-4193.
Comedy
1932 Criterion Theatre, 35 Cottage St., Bar Harbor. David Sedaris, Jul. 12; Bob Marley, Aug. 8. 228-0829. Blue, 650A Congress St. In Utero: A Radical Feminist Comedy Show, Jul. 11; Comedy Open Mic, every Tues. 774-4111.
Camden Opera House, 29 Elm St. Bob Marley, Aug. 9. 236-7963.
Center Theatre, 20 E. Main St., Dover-Foxcroft. Andy
Swan Lake at Maine State Ballet, Jul. 31–Aug. 9.
Let’s Talk.
Maine has the allure of the exotic–a place we’ve all been to in our dreams. I became a Mainer in 1957 when I played at the Kennebunkport Playhouse. It was beautiful. I was just married, and my wife and I were busy exploring all the nooks and crannies.
“I don’t think people from Maine have an accent. If they did, how come Meryl Streep never played anyone from Maine?
“It’s funny, I’m planning a one-man show as Margaret Thatcher. But it’s not too late to change it to Margaret Chase Smith. I could use the same handbag.”
—Interview with Alan Alda by Diane Russell, February/March 2005.
Courthouse Gallery Fine Art
Discover a range of fine art handsomely displayed in two beautiful Greek Revival buildings when you step into this historic setting. Founded in 2006, Courthouse Gallery represents established and emerging contemporary Maine artists highlighted in rotating exhibitions.
“We invite you to visit the Gallery, or to explore our website.”
MAINE LIVE
Gross, Jul. 12; Peter Antoniou, Aug. 7. 564-8943.
Cross Insurance Arena, 1 Civic Center Sq. John Mulaney, Fred Armisen, Mike Birbiglia, & Nick Kroll, Aug. 9. 791-2200.
Good Theater, Stevens Square Theater, 631 Stevens Ave. Kelly MacFarland, Jul. 10. 835-0895.
The Hill Arts, 76 Congress St. Jimmy Tingle, Jul. 12. 347-7177.
Jonathan’s Ogunquit, 92 Bourne Ln. Steve Sweeney, Jul. 5; Paula Poundstone, Jul. 12; Jimmie JJ Walker, Jul. 25; Marco Antonio Pérez Ortiz, Aug. 2; Dulcé Sloan, Aug. 9; Jimmy Keys, Aug. 30. 646-4777.
Maine Savings Amphitheater, 1 Railroad St., Bangor. Matt Rife, Jul. 12; Jerry Seinfeld, Aug. 7. 358-9327. Merrill Auditorium, 20 Myrtle St. Brad Williams, Aug. 9. 842-0800.
One Longfellow Square, 181 State St. Stephen Kellogg, Aug. 22. 761-1757.
State Theatre, 609 Congress St. UpDating, Jul. 27; Josh Johnson, Aug. 28. 956-6000.
Stone Mountain Arts Center, 695 Dugway Rd., Brownfield. Bob Marley, Aug. 14. 935-7292.
Stonington Opera House, 1 School St. BubbleMania!, Aug. 19. 367-2788.
Strand Theatre, 345 Main St., Rockland. Dulcé Sloan, Aug. 8; Paula Poundstone, Sept. 5. 594-0070.
Vinegar Hill Music Theatre, 53 Old Post Rd., Arundel. Todd Barry, Jul. 19; Bluebird Improv, Jul. 29. 985-5552.
Waldo Theatre, 916 Main St., Waldoboro. Peter Antoniou, Aug. 9. 975-6490.
Waterville Opera House, 1 Common St. Bluebird Improv, Jul. 28. 873-7000.
Theater
Belfast Maskers, 17 Court St. Twisted: The Untold Story of a Royal Vizier, Aug. 1–10. 619-3256.
Carousel Music Theater, 196 Townsend Ave., Boothbay Harbor. Lipstick & Gamblers, Jul. 8–30; All American Road Trip, Aug. 5–27. 633-5297.
Celebration Barn Theater, 190 Stock Farm Rd., South Paris. Circle Mirror Transformation, Jul. 19. 743-8452.
City Theater, 205 Main St., Biddeford. Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella, Jul. 18–Aug. 3. 282-0849.
Community Little Theatre, 30 Academy St., Auburn. The SpongeBob Musical, Aug. 8–17. 783-0958.
Deertrees Theatre, 156 Deertrees Rd., Harrison. You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown, Jul. 25–Aug. 3; Four Old Broads, Aug. 8–17. 583-6747.
Good Theater, Stevens Square Theater, 631 Stevens Ave. Frances Floats, Jul. 17–20; I’ll Eat You Last, Aug. 7–10. 835-0895.
Hackmatack Playhouse, 538 School St., Berwick. The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical, Jul. 4–5; Big Fish, Jul. 11–26;
in the Park, Jul. 30–Aug. 2;
Barefoot
JON IMBER (1950 2014) Cedar Tree By The Reach, 1992, detail, KATHERINE WILKES Bone Breaker (osprey), oil on canvas, pastel, 38 x 24 inches 30 x 30 inches
PHILIP FREY Into the Morning Sun, oil on linen, 18 x 24 inches
RICK FOX Flux and Generosity, each oil on canvas, 12 x 9 inches
JESSICA LEE IVES Light Shapes Life, detail, oil, 40 x 40 inches
2025 Summer Concerts
8 6th St. Old Orchard Beach
FREE parking and shuttle service from Old Orchard Beach High School
So Good!
The Neil Diamond Experience Starring
Robert Neary
Wed., 6/25, 7pm
A one of a kind, cut above the rest, tribute to one of the greatest and most successful recording artists in history.
Maine’s 195th Army National Guard Band
Fri. 7/4, 7pm, FREE
Come celebrate the 4th of July with us at the Pavilion!
Mark Schultz
Tues. 7/8, 7pm
As one of Christian music’s most distinctive voices, this singer/ songwriters music tugs on his listeners’ hearts.
Deep Blue C Orchestra
Tues. 7/15, 7pm
A tribute night to the composers from Bernstein to Lennon and McCartney with featured guest artist. Fred Lipsius.
Blues and Jazz Festival
Sat. 7/19, 6pm YellowHouse Blues Band, Soggy Po Boys, and Southside Blues Band will give you a night that you will not forget.
Jason Gray, Dave Pettigrew & Ricki
George
Tues., 7/22, 7pm Seaside Pavilion is bringing a worship night featuring three exceptional artists.
Jim Brickman
Wed. 8/6, 7pm
The multiple award winning, hit-making songwriter is the bestselling solo pianist of our time.
Randy Armstrong & WorldBeat
Marimba
Sat. 8/9, 7pm
An all-ages delight in sound and vision featuring music from around the world.
JILL HOY GALLERY
SRT MAINE ROOTS MUSIC FESTIVAL
The first annual SRT Maine Roots Music Festival will take place from June 26th to the 29th, with two one-hour evening concerts Thursday through Saturday, and a Sunday afternoon jam! Featured Maine artists include The Don Roy Trio (Folk); The Blueliners (Blues); The Casco Bay Tummlers (Klezmer); Duquette (Jazz); Haggard and Cashed (Country); Jennifer Porter (American Roots); and Denny Breau (folk, Delta Blues, Country, Jazz).
JUNE 26, 27 & 28 at 7:00PM · JUNE 29 at 3:00PM
Nathan and the Zydeco Cha Chas
FRI, JULY 18 • 7:30PM
SRT, Jr’s Page-to-the-Stage Summer Camp
Grades 3–5: August 4–8, 9am–3pm Grades 6–8: August 11–15, 9am–3pm Info: sacorivertheatre.org/srtjr CJ Chenier and the Red Hot Louisiana Band SAT, JULY 26 • 7:30PM
Halo at the Point, Thompson’s Point, Portland. Svadba Wedding, July 26, 30. 747-5288.
Heartwood Regional Theater Company, 81 Academy Hill Rd., Newcastle. The Epic of Beowulf, Jul. 17–18. 563-1373.
Lakewood Theater, 76 Theater Rd., Madison. Ravenscroft, Jul. 3–12; Theatre People, or The Angel Next Door, Jul. 17–26; Anything Goes, Jul. 31–Aug. 9; The Gentleman Clothier, Aug. 14–23. 474-7176.
Maine State Music Theater, 1 Bath Rd., Brunswick. Tootsie, Jun. 25–Jul. 12; Footloose, Jul. 16–Aug. 2; Robin & Clark’s Snow White, Jul. 21; Roald Dahl’s Willy Wonka Jr., Aug. 11; West Side Story, Aug. 6–23. 725-8769.
Merrill Auditorium, 20 Myrtle St. Sweeney Todd, Jul. 24–27. 842-0800.
Ogunquit Playhouse, 10 Main St. Legally Blonde The Musical Jr., Jul. 12–13; Guys And Dolls, to Jul. 19; High Society, Jul. 24–Aug. 23; Matilda Jr., Aug. 16–19; When Elvis Met the Beatles, Aug. 28–Sept. 27. 646-5511.
Penobscot Theatre Company, Bangor Opera House, 131 Main St. The Rocky Horror Picture Show, to Jul. 13. 942-3333.
Portland Stage, 25 Forest Ave, Portland. Portland Theater Festival 5th Season Launch, Primary Trust, July 24Aug 10, 774-0465.
Public Theatre, 31 Maple St., Lewiston. The Irish… And How They Got That Way, Aug. 27–Sept. 14. 782-3200.
Stonington Opera House, 1 School St. Manticus: A Lighthouse Play, Jul. 12–13; Everybody Loves Pirates, Jul. 22; Rooted, Aug. 7–17. 367-2788.
Theater at Monmouth, Cumston Hall, 796 Main St. Ms. Holmes & Ms. Watson: Apt. 2B, Jul. 17–Aug. 22; The Complete Works of Jane Austen, Abridged, Jul. 24–Aug. 23; Cymbeline, Jul. 31–Aug. 23; Twelfth Night, Jul. 10–Aug. 24. 933-9999.
Waterville Opera House, 1 Common St. MCT: Treasure Island, Aug. 9; Deathtrap, Aug. 29–Sept. 7. 873-7000.
Film
Center Theatre, 20 E. Main St., Dover-Foxcroft. Pale Rider, Jul. 30. 564-8943.
Deertrees Theatre, 156 Deertrees Rd., Harrison. Movies at Deertrees, Jul. 3 & Aug. 26. 583-6747.
Lincoln Theater, 2 Theater St., Damariscotta. Fantasia (1940), Jul. 20; Kubo and the Two Strings (2016), Aug. 17. 563-3424.
Maine Film Center, 93 Main St., Waterville. 28th
Maine International Film Festival, Jul. 11–20; Maine Student Film & Video Festival, Jul. 19. 873-7000.
Maine Outdoor Film Festival, Outdoor screenings in Portland. Films to be announced, Jul. 23–27. maineoutdoorfilmfestival.com.
Stonington Opera House, 1 School St. Aquaculture for People and The Planet!, Aug. 27. 367-2788.
Waldo Theatre, 916 Main St., Waldoboro. Women & The Wind, Jul. 15; Wizard of Oz Community Sing-Along, Jul. 20; Shit in the Dirt Film Festival, Aug. 8. 975-6490.
Literary
Blue, 650A Congress St. Poetry & Prose Open Mic, Jul. 3. 774-4111.
Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, 105 Botanical Gardens Dr., Boothbay. Rhyme Crimes: Bugs, Poetry, & Nature Observations, Aug. 1. 633-8000.
Denmark Arts Center, 50 W. Main St. Lois Lowry (Tree. Table. Book.), Jul. 13; Lewis Robinson (The Islanders), Aug. 3; Jessica Anthony (The Most), Aug. 31. 452-2412.
Maine Maritime Museum, 243 Washington St., Bath. Story Time with Chris Van Dusen & Mini-Mariners Cruise: Circus Ship, Jul. 15; Family Illustrating & Storytelling Workshop, Aug. 10; Story Time with Splash & Mini-Mariners Cruise, Aug. 19. 443-1316.
Print: A Bookstore, 273 Congress St. Libby Buck (Port Anna), Jul. 9; Kate Russo (Until Alison), Jul. 15; Sarah Perry (Sweet Nothings), Jul. 22; Victoria Lavine (Any Trope But You), Jul. 23; Hanna Orenstein (Maine Characters), Jul. 29; Hyeseung Song (Docile: Memories of a Not-So-Perfect Asian Girl), Jul. 30; Zoe Schlanger (The Light Eaters: How the Unseen World of Plant Intelligence Offers a New Understanding of Life on Earth), Aug. 20. 536-4778. Railway Village Museum, 586 Wiscasset Rd.,
Boothbay. Chris Van Dusen, Jul. 26. 633-4727.
Stone Mountain Arts Center, 695 Dugway Rd., Brownfield. An Evening with Maine Authors, Aug. 8. 935-7292.
Dance
Bates Dance Festival, see website for locations. Jul. 11–Aug. 2. batesdancefestival.org.
Belfast Flying Shoes, Arts in the Barn, 17 Hathorne Point Rd., Cushing. Barn Dance, Jul. 19. 338-0979.
Belfast Flying Shoes, First Church in Belfast UCC Fellowship Hall, 8 Court St., Belfast. First Friday Dance, Jul. 4, Aug. 1, & Sept. 5. 338-0979.
Blue, 650A Congress St. Salsa Nite, Jul. 25, & Aug. 22. 774-4111.
Celebration Barn Theater, 190 Stock Farm Rd., South Paris. Cold, Cold Night Burlesque with Ragtime Rebellion, Jul. 12. 743-8452.
Collins Center for the Arts, 2 Flagstaff Rd., Orono. A Taste of Ireland, Sept. 4. 581-1755.
Hackmatack Playhouse, 538 School St., Berwick. Sunday Contra Dance, Jul. 6 & Aug. 3. 698-1807.
Maine State Ballet, Lopez Theater, 348 U.S. Route One, Falmouth. Swan Lake, Jul. 31–Aug. 9. 781-3587.
Merrill Auditorium, 20 Myrtle St. Tales of Bells &
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Maine International Film Festival, Jul. 11–20 in Waterville.
YORK COUNTY BLUES FEST
MAINE LIVE
Drums, Aug. 2. 842-0800.
Portland Ballet, Congress Square Park. Four Seasons, Aug. 16. 857-3860.
Stonington Opera House, 1 School St. The Soulbenders Dance Party, Jul. 9. 367-2788.
Three of Strong Spirits, 35b Diamond St. Bachata Night with Danza Latina, Jul. 18, & Aug. 15. 899-4930.
Vivid Motion, The Hill Arts, 76 Congress St. Fallen, Aug. 8–10. 347-7177.
Art
Bates College Museum of Art, 75 Russell St., Lewiston. Ralph Steadman: And Another Thing, to Oct. 11. 786-6158.
Bowdoin College Museum of Art, 245 Maine St., Brunswick. Poetic Truths: Hawthorne, Longfellow, and American Visual Culture, 1840–1880, to Jul. 20; Hello, Stranger: Artist as Subject in Photographic Portraits since 1900, to Aug. 10. 725-3275.
Castine Historical Society, 17 School St. A History of Castine in 40 Objects, to Oct. 13. 326-4118.
Center for Maine Contemporary Art, 21 Winter St., Rockland. Leaf Litter, to Sept. 7; The Shape of Memory, to Sept. 7; Nicole Wittenberg: Cheek to Cheek, to Sept. 14. 701-5005.
Dianna Anderson Fine Art
Colby College Museum of Art, 5600 Mayflower Hill Dr., Waterville. Stan Douglas: Hors-Champs, to Aug. 24; Love Your Langlais: A Community Curates, to Oct. 20. 859-5600.
Cove Street Arts, 71 Cove St. Frayed Edges, to Jul. 12; What Stays, to Jul. 19; Liminality, to Jul. 19; Phenomena, to Aug. 9; Three Curiosities, to Aug. 16; Passing Through, to Aug. 16. 808-8911.
Farnsworth Art Museum, 16 Museum St., Rockland. Native Prospects: Indigeneity and Landscape Painting, to Jul. 6; Capturing Her Environment: Women Artists, 1870–1930, to Jul. 20; Anne Buckwalter: Manors | Momentum 2025, to Sept. 21. 596-6457.
Greenhut Galleries, 146 Middle St. Tina Ingraham, Jul. 3–Aug. 2; Maurice Freedman, Aug. 7–30. 7722693.
Kittery Art Association, 2 Walker St. On the Wild Side, Jul. 24–Aug. 17; Summer On The Seacoast & En Plein Air, Aug. 21–Sept. 14. 451-9384.
Maine Historical Society, 489 Congress St. Of Note: Maine Sheet Music, to Jul. 28; Notorious: Maine Crime in the Public Eye, 1690–1940, to Dec. 31. 774-1822.
Maine Jewish Museum, 267 Congress St. Eric Finzi: Return to the Garden, Jul. 10–Sept. 4; Seeing Torah: A Visual Midrash, Jul. 10–Sept. 4. 773-2339.
Maine Sculpture Trail, Schoodic International Sculpture Symposium. An outdoor exhibit of 34 sculptures over
200 miles Downeast. schoodicsculpture.org.
Meetinghouse Arts, 40 Main St., Freeport. Summer Show, Jun. 27–Aug. 24; Local Color: Life Long Dreams, Aug. 29–Sept. 7. 865-0040.
Ogunquit Museum of American Art, 543 Shore Rd. A Sailboat in the Moonlight, to Jul. 20; Henry Strater’s Ogunquit, to Nov. 16; Where the Real Lies, to Nov. 16; Gisela McDaniel, Aug. 1–Nov. 16. 646-4909.
Peary-MacMillan Arctic Museum, 10 Polar Loop, Brunswick. Printed Textiles from Kinngait Studios, to Oct. 26; At Home In the North, to Jun. 1, 2026. 725-3416.
Portland Museum of Art, 7 Congress Sq. Jo Sandman: Skin Deep, to Aug. 17; Painting Energy: The Alex Katz Foundation Collection, to Sept. 14; Spotlight: Ann Craven, to Sept. 14. 775-6148.
Portsmouth Historical Society, 10 Middle St., Portsmouth, NH. Contemporary Currents, to Oct. 13; Cabot Lyford: Winds of Change, to Nov. 2. (603)436-8433.
Richard Boyd Art Gallery, 15 Epps St., Peaks Island. Curator’s Choice, Jul. 1–30; Explorations, Aug. 1–30. 712-1097.
River Arts, 36 Elm St, Damariscotta. Members’ Show, to Jul. 5; Land & Sea, Jul. 12–Aug. 16; Abstract, Aug. 23–Sept. 27. 563-6868.
Ticonic Gallery & Studios, 93 Main St., Waterville. Dark the Night and Bright the Stars, Jul. 9–Oct. 12. 873-7000.
BOAT & HOME SHOW
MAINE LIVE
University of New England Art Galleries, UNE Art Gallery, 716 Stevens Ave. Stephen K. Halpert Collection Curated by Dylan Hausthor, Jul. 10–Sept. 7. 602-3000.
University of New England Art Galleries, Jack S. Ketchum Library, 11 Hills Beach Rd., Biddeford. Piece of My Heart: A Laboratory, to Oct. 26. 602-3000.
Bites
Castine Historical Society, 17 School St. Summer Cocktail Fundraiser, Jul. 10. 326-4118.
Deertrees Theatre, 156 Deertrees Rd., Harrison. Tacos & Trivia, Jul. 1; Annual Lobster Roll Fundraiser, Aug. 1. 583-6747.
Denmark Arts Center, 50 W. Main St. Fourth of July Town Celebration with DAC’s Strawberry Shortcake, Jul. 5. 452-2412.
Maine Cheese Guild, 19 Miller St., Belfast. Cheesy Gifts, Jul. 2; Italian Fun: Mozzarella & Ricotta, Jul. 9. 419-9175.
Maine Jewish Museum, 267 Congress St. Twists of Tradition: Community Challah Braiding Workshop, Jul. 17; Dine & Unwind: A Vegetarian Shabbat Dinner, Jul. 18; Brine & Dine: Mastering the Art of Pickling, Jul. 24. 773-2339.
Maine Tasting Center, 506 Old Bath Rd., Wiscasset. Bountiful Boards, Jul. 7; Introduction to Maine’s Fermented
LIVE MUSIC THEATRE
COMEDY KIDS CAMP FILM SERIES
For complete event schedule & tickets
WALDOBORO, ME
All your Maine-inspired gifts — including an exclusive selection of Sea Bags — in one place.
MAINE LIVE
Maine Made Crafts
2025 ARTS & CRAFT SHOWS
Wells Jr. High
1470 Post Rd, Rt 1, Wells
June 21 & 22 / August 9 & 10
Augusta Armory
179 Western Ave, Augusta Oct 25 & 26 / Nov 8 & 9
South Portland High School
637 Highland Ave, South Portland
Nov 15 & 16
Westbrook National Guard Armory
120 Stroudwater St, Westbrook Nov 22 & 23
Augusta Civic Center
76 Community Dr, Augusta Nov 29 & 30
Augusta Armory
Foods, Jul. 9; Indian Homestyle Cooking Journey, Jul. 10, 24, Aug. 14, & 28; White Wines of Maine, Jul. 16; Freeze Dried Flavors, Jul. 23; Kimchi Making Workshop, Jul. 26; Dungeons & Drafts, Jul. 26; Red Wines of Maine, Jul. 30; Boozy Jam Happy Hour, Aug. 1; Lunch with Maine Gravy, Aug. 2; Perfectly Paired, Aug. 3; Brushes & Bivalves, Aug. 8; Green Crab Supper, Aug. 9; Chinese Dumplings with a Maine Twist, Aug. 10; Mastering Handmade Pasta, Aug. 10; Meads of Maine, Aug. 13; Incredible Edible Insects, Aug. 17. 558-5772.
Makers Guild of Maine, Searsport Shores Oceanfront Campground, 216 W Main St. Armenian Picnic, Jul. 27. makersguildmaine.org.
Now You’re Cooking, 49 Front St., Bath. July Wine Tasting, Jul. 10; Ramen Class, Jul. 16; Summer Salads Class, Jul. 23; Gluten-Free Beer Tasting, Jul. 25; Paht Thai Class, Aug. 13; Sushi Basics Class, Aug. 20. 443-1402. Stone Mountain Arts Center, 695 Dugway Rd., Brownfield. Cajun Barn Social, Jul. 26. 935-7292.
Nautical
179 Western Ave, Augusta Dec 13 & 14 / Dec 20 & 21
Camden Classics Cup, Lyman-Morse, 59 Sea St. Celebration of classic yacht racing & boatbuilding with two days of sailboat racing with a panoramic backdrop, Jul. 24–26. camdenclassicscup.com.
Maine Boat & Home Show, Rockland Harbor Park, 1 Pleasant St. Featuring boats in the water & on land, marine gear vendors, furniture & homewares, arts, live music, & food. Aug. 8–10. 594-8622.
Don’t Miss
Coffee By Design, 1 Diamond St. Portland. Voices by Design, Maine Coast Fishermen’s Association, Presentation and Talk, July 17. 874-5400.
Blue, 650A Congress St. Casco Bay Cabaret, Jul. 28, & Aug. 25; Co-Conspirators’: Stories Told Live, Jul. 3. 774-4111.
Brick Store Museum, 117 Main St., Kennebunk. Vintage Baseball Game, Jul. 5; Steampunk Fest, Aug. 16. 985-4802.
Carousel Music Theater, 196 Townsend Ave., Boothbay Harbor. Boothbay Harbor Memorial Library Second Annual Storybook Ball, Aug. 2. 633-5297.
Castine Historical Society, 17 School St. Castine & Cultural Landscapes of the Cod Fishery, Jul. 17; 16th Annual Pulliam Memorial Lecture: Penobscot Sense of Place, Aug. 6. 326-4118.
Celebration Barn Theater, 190 Stock Farm Rd., South Paris. The Early Evening Show, Jul. 5 & Aug. 2; The Spectacular, Aug. 16. 743-8452.
Friday, Aug. 29
Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, 105 Botanical Gardens Dr., Boothbay. Chewonki at the Gardens, Jul. 16, Aug. 13; Landscaping for Wildlife, Jul. 11; iNature Photography Workshop, Jul. 19; Wabanaki Traditions Family Program, Jul. 28; Medicinal Plants: Herbal Salve Making, Aug. 9. 633-8000.
Deering Oaks Park, Portland. The 23rd Annual Greater Portland Festival of Nations, July 26. 536-0800
Denmark Arts Center, 50 W. Main St. Denmark Family Fun Days: Ferdinand the Bull, Jul. 27; Dam Jam Revival, Aug. 17. 452-2412.
Friends of Fort Williams Park, Fort Williams Park, 1000 Shore Rd., Cape Elizabeth. Cape Elizabeth Garden Tour, Jul. 19. fortwilliams.org/cegardentour.
The Hill Arts, 76 Congress St. Smokus Pocus: A 420 Magic Show, Jul. 18–19. 347-7177.
Laudholm Nature Crafts Festival, Wells Reserve at Laudholm, 342 Laudholm Farm Rd. With new and returning artists welcoming faithful shoppers, this juried event features music, food, and many of New England’s most skilled creative people, Sept. 6–7. 646-1555.
League of Maine Craft Shows, Wells Jr High School, 1470 Post Rd. Summer Solstice Craft Show, Jul. 12–13 & Sept. 6–7. 967-2251.
Maine Audubon, Fields Pond, 216 Fields Pond Rd., Holden. Bringing Nature Home: Native Plant Talk & Walk, Jul. 25, & Aug. 22; Maine Audubon Bumble Bee Blitz, Aug. 2. 781-2330.
- Aug 2, 2026
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I am recommending to everyone I know to contact DIRFY Generators and Heat Pumps so that they can increase their spending money.
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MAINE LIVE
Maine Audubon, Gilsland Farm, 20 Gilsland Farm Rd., Falmouth. Maine Audubon Bumble Bee Blitz, Aug. 2; Bird Walk, every Thurs. 781-2330.
Maine Audubon, Scarborough Marsh, 92 Pine Point Rd. Nature Sketching by Canoe, Aug. 2; Snowy Egret Day, Aug. 16; Bird Walks, every Wed. 781-2330.
Maine Jewish Museum, 267 Congress St. Mastering the Art of Self-Defense: Krav Maga, Jul. 13; Flower Bar, Jul. 30; The Notorious RBG Workout, Aug. 28. 773-2339.
Maine Maritime Museum, 243 Washington St., Bath. Full Moon Gathering with Maya Rook, Jul. 9 & Aug. 10; Annual Gala, Jul. 11; Drop-In LEGO Workshop with Colby Adolphsen, Aug. 13. 443-1316.
Makers on Main, Main St., Freeport. An expansive trail of Maine art, crafts, & food, with a delightful array of local products for sale, Jul. 5, Aug. 2, & Sept. 6. visitfreeport. com/makersonmain.
New England Craft Fairs, Wells Junior High, 1470 Post Rd. Wells 8th Annual Summerfest Arts & Craft Show, Aug. 9–10. 946-7079.
Opera House at Boothbay Harbor, 86 Townsend Ave. Michael Harrison, Jul. 15. 633-5159.
Owls Head Transportation Museum, 117 Museum St. Antique Truck & Tractor Show, Jul. 19–20; Wings & Wheels! #1 Airshow in Maine, Aug. 2–3; 47th Annual New England Auto Auction, Aug. 22–23. 594-4418.
Portland Ovations, Cumberland Fairgrounds, 197
Serving Southern Maine & the Midcoast for 43 years!
You turned my overgrown perennial “wetland” into a showplace, a beautiful, serene yard that I thoroughly enjoy. The stonework and beautifully placed gardens make my yards look like a gorgeous little park. Thank you for everything, Jack! — Cynthia Densmore Portland
Jack and the professionals at Black Bear
P.O. Box 504
Landscaping are committed to an unparalleled level of quality service. Their attention to detail, experienced practices, and commitment to excellence bring us back again and again We very much look forward to working with them in the years to come. –Wayne G. Keller
www.blackbearlandscapingdesign.com
MYF ABU LO USY ARD .COM
MAINE LIVE
Blanchard Rd. Circus Smirkus, Aug. 8–9. 842-0800.
Railway Village Museum, 586 Wiscasset Rd., Boothbay. Antique Engine Meet, Jul. 5; Antique Auto Day, Jul. 12; 3rd Annual Founder’s Community Day, Aug. 17. 633-4727. State Theatre, 609 Congress St. RuPaul’s Drag Race, Aug. 26. 956-6000.
Stonington Opera House, 1 School St. Janoah The Juggler, Aug. 5. 367-2788.
Strawbery Banke Museum, 14 Hancock St., Portsmouth. Piscataqua Riverfest, Jul. 12; New England BIPOC Fest, Aug. 17. (603)433-1100.
Waterford World’s Fair, 36 Irving Green Rd., North Waterford. Showcasing rural heritage with livestock shows, crafts, demonstrations, exhibits, music, food, antique tractor pulls, showcase stage, Axe Women, & much more. Jul. 18–20. waterfordworldsfair.org.
WW&F Railway, 97 Cross Rd., Alna. Lavender Pickin’ Trains to SeaLyon Farm, Jul. 5, 12, 19, & 26; Tintypes by the Trains, Jul. 12 & Aug. 9. 882-4193.
To submit an event listing: portlandmonthly.com/portmag/ submit-an-event/
Compiled by Bethany Palmer
Grace Notes
A romantic retreat on Penobscot Bay is nearly an island unto itself.
STORY BY COLIN W. SARGENT
Twenty years ago, I was part of a musical trio, Cat’s Paw,” says John Oldham. “It’s a sailing term” for a pretty disturbance on the water where the wind kisses a patch of blue.
“It was quite the Islesboro gig. One night, we were playing at Grace Cottage when Alex Trebek strode across the lawn. He was quite friendly, and we joked with him.”
founder of W. R. Grace & Co., renowned shipping company, and twice Mayor of New York City.”
DINERS CLUB
“ en Dick Van Patten showed up. One of the Gabor sisters was invited. All were friends of the owners,” Manhattan’s Gerald and Lydia Katzo , who own a galaxy of trendy restaurants anchored by 40-year-old Il Mulino (ilmulino.com) in Greenwich Village.
Which makes this even more of a New York story. Grace Cottage was built on Islesboro in 1918 by a two-term mayor of New York for his daughter, though he never lived to see her receive her gift. Maybe it’s all about timing: shipping magnate William R. Grace was in o ce and at the top of his game when he accepted the Statue of Liberty from
the people of France.
KISMET
Another soft breeze hits a gentle
swell. In 2025, John Oldham, the onetime Cat’s Paw musician, nds himself the listing agent for Grace Cottage with his rm Island Property. Asking price is $6.5M.
“My favorite room in the house, besides the pool room, has to be one of those on the shore side with the sweeping views.” e views are so magnetic, “you’re nearly drawn right through the glass.
“I’ve had six calls in the last two or three days” from prospective buyers, he says. “ at’s wonderful, but if you haven’t been to the island and aren’t predisposed to island life, well, you’ve really gotta be free spirits. It’s a big change. If you nd yourself wishing there were a ve-star restaurant or even a one-star restaurant,” you may not have the sense of adventure required. In the most wonderful sense, you live on an island on a dare you make with yourself. “You can drive around out here, but everyone depends on the ferry.” at said, this 9,025-square-foot castle is a survivor among survivors: “It’s weathered the severe storms we’ve had the last two
years,” Oldham says. “ e foundation oor level of the basement is about eight feet above ood level. e most that’s happened in the last couple of years is that some seaweed blew up on the lee side from Penobscot Bay.”
SEEMS LIKE OLD TIMES
In 1918, Mayor William R. Grace, owner of Grace Steamship Lines, commissioned Philadelphia architect Wilson Eyre to create this Renaissance Revival “cottage” for his daughter, artist Louise Natalie Grace (18751954). Here at 300 Hermits Point Road in Islesboro, Eyre whisked up an eight-bedroom fortress with baths ensuite that boasts a lovely r and mahogany deepwater dock. Tuscan
670 Main Street (Rte 1)
Saco
heartwood.biz
by Courtney Elizabeth
Photo
touches include stucco surfaces and luxuriant loggias. Deftly placed justso to re ect in a quiet inlet, a stone guest house designed to resemble an ancient mill enchants as few structures can. It conjures up Marie Antoinette’s rustic folly Hameau de la Reine in Paris, where Marie Antoinette used to pretend she was a farm girl feeding chickens, sweeping the oor, just scraping by just steps from her Petit Trianon palace. We’ve been told it was inspired “by the seaside cottage Louise admired on a trip to Italy.”
Because the nearly invisible is beautiful too, more accounts of the house ought to mention that Louise shared much of her life and adventures with wealthy heiress Lucile Alger. Together, they raised, showed, and popularized poodles.
ARTIST AND PATRON OF THE ARTS
Louise Natalie Grace’s sweeping show
Louise’s desert getaway: Eleven Arches, Tucson
Personalized designs based on your vision Finest materials and meticulous craftsmanship Exceptional Service Proud Partnership with The Kennebec Company
Explore our showroom in Kennebunk to see our custom cabinetry and discuss your next project
designs@kennebunkkitchens.com 207-967-2819 | 169 Port Rd. Ste. 11 Kennebunk, ME 04043 kennebunkkitchens.com
“Since taking ownership at the start of the year, my wife and I are committed to continuing the tradition of excellence.”
- Mike & Brooke Joly, Owners
of eleven murals at Rockefeller Center was covered by e New York Times.
Jimbo office 783-7039 design@UncleAndys.com
In 1937, Louise commissioned another masterpiece, “Eleven Arches,” a fabulous retreat in the Catalina Foothills of Tucson, Arizona, that still stands. In fact, this palace is also for sale. If eleven is your lucky number, we suggest you buy the pair.
BACK ON ISLESBORO
Of note are the saltwater pool, slate patio, miniature golf course, tennis court, 10 baths, and 8.8 acres.
How did all this grace land in Maine in the rst place? e mayor’s wife was Lillius Gilchrist Grace (1839-1922), herself the daughter of a omaston, Maine, shipbuilder. Early in the planning, she might gently have directed her husband’s dreams in our, and her daughter’s, direction—like a cat’s paw.
ALDER STREAM TWP
DALLAS PLANTATION
Are you looking to buy or sell Maine real estate? Call Today! I’m looking forward to helping you with your real estate needs.
Greg Hodgkins, Realtor
Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage
Coldwell Banker Realty
53 Baxter Boulevard, Portland Maine 04101 (207)730-1205
Gregory.Hodgkins@nemoves.com
SPRING LAKE –property on a great remote body of water. Off grid w/generator, year round building, detached garage, Ice fish, hunt, enjoy all seasons! $495,000.
20 Vista Lane – RANGELEY LAKE – A rare offering, the Buena Vista Estate on 567 feet of deep water frontage,53 private acres w/south facing exposure, total privacy, development potential.
garage AND private island w/2 bedroom
6 Spring Lake Rd - Escape to nature and a wonderful waterfront property on a great remote body of water. Off grid w/generator, year round building, detached garage, Ice fish, hunt, enjoy all seasons! $495,000.
RANGELEY LAKE – Lakeside Marina & Convenience - Wonderful business opportuinty in downtown commercial zoning, convenience store, 25 boat slips, gas, boat rental business, great waterfront location! $965,000.
631 Bald Mtn. Road – MOOSELOOK LAKE – A rare offering, 4 bed, 4.5 bath contemporary lakefront home w/beach,
Acres! $1,899,000. Big Beaver Pond – Wonderful Private Setting In The Remote Woods of Magalloway Planation! Only 4 cottages on Big Beaver pond. This cottage was tastefully built in 1998 and in excellent condition. Good sized kitchen, Large living and dining area with wood stove and large screened porch. On the main level is also indoor plumbing with a half bath. Upstairs features 3 good sized bedrooms plus bunk room and a full bath with shower. Enjoy peace and quiet with all the comforts of home… full generator back up system, septic system, large detached shed and 16x24 garage for all the toys! Great spot, Great Camp Call Today for ultimate waterfront privacy! $499,000
2582 Main St - Wonderful commercial business on Main Street w/ 105' on Rangeley Lake, Marina/ Convenience Store, 25+ Slips, Gas, Shop, Downtown Commercial Zoning, High Traffic Location, $965,000.
Located close to the village with expansive southwest views of Rangeley Lake, 4 beds, 3.5 baths, very close to Saddleback Ski Area, snowmobile and ATV from your doorstep, heated garage! $639,000. www.Morton-Furbish.com James L. Eastlack, Owner Broker 207-864-5777 or 207-670-5058 | JLEastlack@gmail.com
Gorgeous VIEWS overlooking Rangeley Lake and Saddleback Ski Area, wonderful estate property located just outside the Rangeley village, 48.32 Acres,4 bed,4.5 bath home w/ guest quarters. $1,495,000.
RANGELEY LAKE VIEWS – 21 Pine Grove - 4 Beds, 3.5 Baths, Fully Furnished, SW facing views w/LOTS of sun, Snowmobile and ATV from your doorstep, Detached 32x32 garage fully heated, a must see! $639,000.
277 Stephens Road – MOOSELOOK LAKE – West facing Sandy Beach frontage, 4 bed, 3 bath home w/attached 3 car heated garage and detached 3 car garage w/large bonus room! $850,000.
BEAVER POND WATERFRONT MAGALLOWAY
Greater Portland’s Guide to Real Estate
Cindy Olsen, Broker
A lifelong Mainer, Cindy Olsen brings heart, and local know-how to every real estate journey. She has helped countless families in her 25 years as a local agent.
Cindy understands that buying or selling a home is more than a transaction — it’s a life moment. Whether you’re searching for the perfect neighborhood or saying goodbye to a beloved home, she’s here to guide you every step of the way with warmth, insight, and a steady hand.
Looking to Buy or Sell in Greater Portland? Let’s make your next move a confident one.
R anked Among the Top 100 Agents of 2024
Andi
UNDER CONTRACT IN 5 DAYS
39 West Elm Street, Yarmouth
This home is just minutes to the village, schools, ball fields and Route One. It is a short drive to Brunswick or Portland. This small two bedroom home o ers several options, renovate or take the time to build your new home. Enjoy the Royal River Park or take advantage of the bike trails the town has to o er.
This private waterfront estate provides elevated westerly views over the lake to the White Mountains. The property is comprised of a main house/guest cottage/garage with apartment on 2.6± acres and the “barn” on 22.9± acres. The waterfront lot o ers wonderful privacy with mature landscaping and trees, 313± feet of waterfrontage, a 60’+ dock, watercraft lifts, moorings, a boathouse, and a swim float. Completed in 2016 and designed by noted architect Joseph Waltman, the shingled residence is maintained to the highest level of workmanship and attention to detail. The ‘Barn” lot has a heated 47’x71’ structure, and subdivision potential.
Fog House— the last house on the public road before the park entrance. Walk out your back door onto a secret Park trail that leads to the Schooner Head Overlook Road and Anemone Cave and on to Sand Beach so you can walk or bike by road or trail into the park from this breathtaking setting in a cove looking out to crashing surf on the ledges of Schooner Head and beyond to Egg Rock Lighthouse and open ocean. 4 bedroom main house with large primary suite on the main level and a cathedral living room with granite fireplace. Ensuite primary bedroom upstairs with a center open balcony looking down connecting to two other bedrooms and bath. The two-car detached garage has an apartment overhead with open bedroom/living room and full bath. Design by architect Roc Caivano. Comes mostly furnished #1606726
Spectacular, solar assisted, Rockport Post and beam sits overlooking the pink granite, bold open ocean shoreline. Very custom details including a gorgeous new endless pool in the three story tower that also includes a star-lit lookout room with glass roof. Radiant floors with unique map overlay tile floor shaped after Swans Island. Massive loft area could be multiple bedrooms upstairs but is being used as two large open rooms now. Eastern exposure.
Seaside cottage walking distance to ferry and 190' of ocean frontage on Mackerel Cove. Two bedrooms, double wing layout. Large living area with fireplace and central dining. Large kitchen with sitting room on the west side, enjoy incredible sunsets from the large deck. Moor your boat out front and keep your dinghy on the town dock. Includes a buildable lot in the back of the property with views and a well already installed.
Turnkey Lakefront Retreat with Luxury Amenities. Three-level home on the tranquil shores of Green Lake, 7.5 miles from Ellsworth and 45-minute drive to Acadia National Park. 1.83-acre lot, 4,275 sq. ft. home with beauty, comfort, and convenience—fully furnished with exceptionally well-thought-out décor. Manicured yard surrounded by flower gardens with a lakeside stone patio. Cathedral ceilings, a great room with an open floor plan, and a chef’s kitchen. Master suite on the main living level with en-suite bathroom. Two large bedrooms upstairs are also ensuite. Fully finished basement with a bar, entertainment space, a bedroom, and a separate bath. Pontoon boat and dock, jet ski with lift, inflatable boat with motor, and a John Deere Gator for easy access around the property. Heated three-car detached garage and workshop. #1604575
Set at the base of the Camden Hills walking distance to town, this spacious 6 bedroom Dutch Gambrel with a large covered deck with beautiful views. Two lots combined for a total of approx. 2.35 acres. (More land available to add) Built in the ‘30s with extensive renovations in the ‘90s. The in-law side has it’s own entrance and a very large living area off the second kitchen with wrap around windows. Walkout level has two-car drive under garage.
Beautiful coastal home built in 2019 on a tidal estuary where you can paddle the inner bays of Kilkenny Cove and out to open ocean or just sit and enjoy the wildlife that comes and goes with the tide change. Three bdrms and three baths on the main level plus a full apartment above the garage with another bedroom space, bath, kitchen and living area for guests or possibly a weekly rental. Most furnishings convey.
Custom sun-filled contemporary colonial style home offering up to 5 bdrms and 4 baths set on over 13 private acres very close to all the schools, downtown, and interstate access. Gourmet kitchen with stainless steel appliances and granite counter tops. Large primary suite on main level along with large dining room, library and living area that steps out on to a screen porch. 25 x 36 detached art studio/workshop. Private wooded acreage in the back.
A Stone’s Throw is off the Whitney Farm Road, a short walk to the beach at Long Pond. Incredible outdoor space, fenced in yard along with a small circulating pool. Partial views of the mountains of Acadia. Comes mostly furnished. 3 to 4 bedroom main house with three full bathrooms and a unique floor plan Two living rooms and one has an additional Hide away bed. Small art studio in back of the over sized two car garage. Major remodel was done in 2018.
$1,200,000
ORR’S ISLAND
PHIPPSBURG WATERFRONT
This Cape Style 3 bedroom 3 bath home sits overlooking the Kennebec River and Squirrel Point Light. Elevated water views from almost every window. The kitchen, dining room and living room have an open foor plan with many large windows taking advantage of all the views. Drink your morning coffee in the three season sunroom which takes full advantage of the views to the north, east and south. Full basement to store kayaks, canoe’s etc. Close to Popham!
Year-round sunset & ocean views over Harpswell Sound in meticulously maintained, timber-framed home in Harpswell's Dipper Cove neighborhood. First time to market, this beautifully constructed, 3 bdrm, 2.5 ba Timberpeg contemp. offers 1flr living, open kitchen, dining area, & sunken living room w/cathedral ceilings & skylights, giving an open, airy feeling. A community clubhouse, deep-water dock, and protected mooring are also included. A boater's paradise.
$495,000
HARPSWELL WATERFRONT
Summer getaway or year-round home, the choice is yours with this 1880 vintage New Englander offering 67 ft of water frontage and elevated views of Lowell’s Cove. Featuring 4 bedrooms (including the tower room, which kids would love!) water views from 5 of its 8 rooms, 4-season sunroom and wraparound, water view porch. Close to area restaurants, walking trails and beaches. Come and enjoy the charm and beauty of this seaside community!
Enjoy living in the coastal fishing community of Harpswell. This 2 bdrm, 1 ba home has an open concept kitchen, dining and living area that most buyers will want to update. First flr bdrm & loft w/laundry hook-up. Sit on your waterside deck and watch the boats pass by Shared dock with #61, ramp & float not included. Short walk to the Reversing Falls &Town Landing. By appointment only, 24-hour notice. Shared septic system & well. Tenant occupied. Low Harpswell Taxes.
$629,000
ORR’S ISLAND OCEAN VIEW
Perched on the eastern shore of one of Orr’s Island’s highest points, sits this captivating 3BR, 2BA, year-round home boasting spectacular open-ocean views. It has been completely renovated and tastefully decorated. Large granite steps lead to a patio and into the home where you’ll immediately be drawn to the breathtaking views off the elevated, wrap-around deck where you’ll relax enjoying summer meals with friends and family. Inside is a wall of over-sized windows that deliver expansive natural sunlight, ocean breezes and take advantage of the amazing sunrises. Discover the many hiking trails, small community feel and stunning surroundings of desirable Orr’s & Bailey Islands.
FREEPORT
Beautifully maintained 3 bdrm Victorian home fts a private country setting, while being walking distance away from DT Freeport. Home offers original wood floors, character, & charm; offered for your consideration for the first time since the 80's. Incl. lg 2c garage w/space above, perfect for an office, art studio or workout room! Meticulously landscaped by the homeowners, w/plenty of gardening room. Also fts a screened in porch, balcony off primary bdrm, & deck.
$369,000
ORR’S ISLAND WATERFRONT ORR’S ISLAND WATERFRONT ORR’S ISLAND WATERFRONT
$495,000
HARPSWELL WATERFRONT
Welcome to Unit #30 at The Merritt House! Come experience serene living and breathtaking sunset views from every room! The large living room offers dramatic vistas that create the perfect backdrop for relaxation, complete with a cozy gas freplace that adds warmth and ambiance. There is also a sweet little offce nook! The condo offers 2 bedrooms and 2 baths. The primary bedroom features a private full bathroom and ample closet space. The unit also offers a southwesterly facing deck with bold, beautiful ocean views! This home combines modern amenities with the allure of coastal living. Boasting a deep water dock, just a few steps from the condo! This unit is a must see!!!
Enjoy a year-round waterfront home that boasts open concept living, dining & kitchen area. Special fts. incl. granite counters in kitchen, electric-induction stove, lg wlk-in pantry, multiple heat zones, one way window film, 1st flr laundry w/soaking sink, private 2nd flr primary bdrm & ba w/waterside deck ft ocean views. Leave from your common dock, from your boat, kayak or canoe and explore Card Cove, Quahog Bay and out to open ocean.
HARPSWELL WATERFRONT
Experience breathtaking sunsets and elevated expansive westerly views over Harpswell Sound in this beautifully appointed single level condo located on picturesque Orr’s Island. Penthouse #2, located on the 4th foor of the Merritt House, boasts 2 bedrooms, 2 baths and a bonus room, perfect for an offce or creative art space, flled with natural light. The bright and airy living space features a propane freplace, hardwood foors, and endless water views. The heart of the home is the kitchen, boasting granite countertops, ideal for your culinary adventures. Enjoy seamless outdoor/indoor living with your water view deck, perfect for morning coffee or an evening gathering.
This tastefully renovated condo on Bailey Island is being offered completely turnkey. Ready for you to enjoy this summer, or fully equipped for your next summer rental property. 1 bedroom, 1 bath, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances and completely full of EVERYTHING you need! There is nothing these sellers have missed! Boasting views into the iconic Mackerel Cove, walking distance to local lobster wharfs and Mackerel Cove Beach!
$595,000
HARPSWELL WATERFRONT
Rare offering of 4.63+/- acre parcel of land to call your own. This attractive property offers 1,000+ft of tidal water frontage on a peninsula setting overlooking upper Card Cove, which offers access to Quahog Bay & open ocean. Relax & absorb the charm of the coast w/being minutes from Cook's Corner, Maine St Brunswick & all of Harpswell's amenities. There may be a possibility of division or a family compound. Expired, permitted, 3-bedroom septic design on file.
Bring your imagination to this Raised Ranch style home and renovate/remodel to your likening. This home was once a gentleman’s farm on 4.67 +/- acres offering a barn, open felds, woods and plenty of sun. Also included is a 4-bay garage for car, boat, tractor storage or just extra space. This home needs a total renovation. Located in a desirable area of town, but just minutes to the downtown, Maine Street shopping district and public boat launch on Mere Point. This is a true diamond in the rough. Enjoy walking or biking in the Woodside Road area and surrounding country roads. Close to Crystal Spring Farm and Brunswick High School.
Southern Maine Beachside Inn
Well-established upscale independent beachside Inn offering varied accommodations, including 30+ upscale guest rooms and suites, a heated pool, and staff housing. Walking distance to local beaches.
Beach Area Motel
Ideally situated off I-195 between Old Orchard Beach and Saco. Features 17 units, suitable for seasonal or yearround operation, along with a comfortable owner’s apartment offering a private deck and yard.
Sparhawk Oceanfront Resort
The premier Ogunquit oceanfront resort has 89 spacious guest rooms and suites. Resort amenities include a pool, tennis courts, and 4 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds.
Please call for other confidential, off-market listings
Southern Maine Coastal Inn
Features 17 keys of motel guest rooms and private cottages with one and two bedrooms. Includes a separate owner’s home and a one-bedroom apartment. Ideally situated on the heavily traveled US Route 1 corridor.
Western ME Entertainment Center
Turnkey and highly profitable state-ofthe-art recreation center includes bowling alley, arcade, and pub in a four-season tourist area. Easy to manage with staff in place. New facility in excellent condition.
Topside Inn
Topside Inn is located at the highest point in Boothbay Harbor and is consistently ranked as one of the top ten boutique hotels in the U.S, sold in April of 2025.
207 773 4222
Niagara Falls New York JUL 9-13
Cabbage Island Clambake Boothbay Harbor JUL 20
Cruise Moosehead Lake Greenville JUL 25
Six Flags New England Agawam, MA JUL 25-26
Cabbage Island Clambake Boothbay Harbor AUG 3
Isle of Shoals Cruise Portsmouth, NH AUG 13
Red Sox VS. Marlins Boston AUG 16
Quebec City Canada AUG 22-25
Cabbage Island Clambake Boothbay Harbor AUG 24 Branson, MO SEPT 4-15 “The Big E” Springfield, MA SEPT 12-14
Cog Railway MT Washington SEPT 16 NASCAR New Hampshire Motor Speedway SEPT 21
Gettysburg, PA SEPT 23-27
Fryeburg Fair Maine SEPT 30 Indian Head Resort New Hampshire SEPT 28-30
Highly Recommended Professionals “JP & Family Roofing recently put a New roof on my house. I Highly recommend this company as they were professional from the estimate to the final nail. The work crew was courteous and efficient. In fact, they cleaned up so well at the end no one could tell if they had even been there! We are very pleased with our New roof. It looks wonderful.”
-Tom Lafavore & Christine Allen
Breakdown Labor Day
STORY BY MICHAEL KIMBALL
Iwalk Ogunquit Beach. at’s my exercise and my relief: Walking, listening to seagulls and waves, to music and novels with 3,700 miles of ocean o my shoulder, in the way that the sea tempers the weather— cooler summers, warmer winters—a
surfside walk weathers the tempers. Here, in the vastness of distances, of ocean skies, the steady exhalations of surf over sand smoothes over worries.
From late fall through early spring, the parking lot remains free, and that’s when this three-mile beach is mine. I visit the dunes, take
pictures, and paint pictures. I’m grateful every day. en comes mid-April, when parking kiosks awaken at eight, so I must get there at sunrise or pay to walk. at’s when the tourists begin arriving, lately in multitudes. e Boomers have retired, and
LAST WORDS
travel journalism has blossomed. In 2023, Real Simple magazine named Ogunquit the “World’s Best Beach Destination.” In 2024, TripAdvisor called Ogunquit the best beach in New England. “A quaint seaside village in Maine” is how Town & Country described the town, which swells from an o -season population of 1,300 to 80,000. In terms of irony, that ain’t quaint.
On any summer day, a beach walk is an obstacle course for sunbathers, walkers, joggers, sandcastles, girls hauling water, boys running collision courses, footballs ying, paddle balls, and bean bags. A year ago, I took a Frisbee to the back of my neck—C2, in spinal terminology—and the dude picked it up and ung it back to his bud a mile away. No apology, not even a glance.
I don’t know what possessed me to walk the beach on Labor Day weekend—maybe to soak up some happiness—but fate hands me a secret parking spot in town, and I trek o to the beach with a head full of music.
It’s mid-afternoon and crammed with color: umbrellas and swimsuits, tents, gazebos, furniture, coolers, packed villages of extended families. e only visible sand is a serpentine footpath around blankets and chairs. A silver Piper Cub crosses the sun, towing an OXFORD CASINO banner northward to Wells and Kennebunkport. Before I’d gone twenty steps, a woman cut across my path and scraped my leg with her beach chair. I should have turned back, but “ e Four Seasons” drives me on, weaving, dodging, stopping, starting. A video-equipped drone sweeps low over the sunbathers. A soccer ball glances o a sleeping man’s temple, knocking his sunglasses into his mouth. A Rolling Rock beach umbrella cartwheels across the sand, pursued by a red-shouldered guy with a Solo cup in hand. Lifeguards’ whistles
drown out the seagulls, so I jack up Vivaldi and press on. e sky is bright and late-summer blue; happy kids race across blankets. Soak it up. Lighten up.
Down the beach, a crowd surrounds a Spandexed dude working a dual-line stunt kite, an eight-foot, ame-emblazoned stingray crisscrossing the sky. e dude attempts a barrel roll. His kite jerks down and up, pitches westward, dives like a falcon toward the sunbathers, then upends a beach chair and launches up toward the sun.
I detour past a sand ght. One of the boys captures seven pounds of hardpack in a garden spade and lets it y, spattering everyone in range. I slide on a deli slice of ham and wrench my back. Nearby, another guy, lean as a diver, sprints for the waves, trailing white smoke. His Speedo, it seems, has caught re. Two lifeguards race past, heading for a boy and his dad setting up an archery target, while across the beach, people have sprung to their feet, cell phones aimed at the sky. e returning banner plane—PLAY POWERBALL!—has snagged the stunt kite and jerks the Spandex dude skyward, two-handed, ying south toward New Hampshire. e beach crowd cheers.
To my right, two boys are pegging clamshells at the sanderlings feeding at the water’s edge, and nally, that’s my limit. “Hey!” I tug Vivaldi out of my ear. “Leave the birds alone! You’re in Maine now.” Whatever the hell that means. ey stare. I turn for home, braced to take a clamshell in the back. But it doesn’t happen. I replace my earbuds. Now it’s just the big sun on my back and “Winter” in my head…which reminds me: Travel + Leisure has just named Ogunquit the 2nd best Christmas town in the United States. n
