BAR HARBOR'S PAID PARKING IS OVER FOR THE YEAR
Chamber Celebrates, VIA annual meeting, safety trainings, library events and other briefs
The Bar Harbor Story is generously sponsored by YES ON 4 For a Balanced Solution.
Each week, we compile press releases and briefs that have been sent in to us and send it to you as one story. This is this week’s compilation!
BAR HARBOR PAID PARKING OVER FOR THE SEASON
BAR HARBOR—As nearby Ellsworth ponders creating its own paid parking program, parking is free again in Bar Harbor and will remain so until May 15. Free parking begins each year on Halloween.
This past season, per hour parking in downtown at spaces governed by kiosks varied between $2 to $4 per hour. Parking permits are also used for residential street parking and are free to Bar Harbor residents. Parking lots were available for all-day parking. There were four-hour limits for on-street, four-hour spots.
Paid parking was enforced between 8 A.M. to 9 P.M., Monday through Saturday and 12 P.M. to 9 P.M. on Sunday.
The program began in 2019. Its expected to have net almost $4 million this year, an increase from just over $3 million in 2023. Construction projects in some areas throughout Bar Harbor proper led to some changes in RV parking this past season.
For information on parking in downtown Bar Harbor, parking permits and other details, visit www.barharbormaine.gov/400/Parking-Information.
Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce Celebrates 2024 Annual Dinner
BAR HARBOR—On Friday evening, October 25, members of the Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce gathered as the Chamber presented several awards to winning businesses and community leaders at its annual dinner held this year at the Atlantic Oceanside Hotel & Event Center.
There were six categories of awards. The President’s Award is selected by the President of the Board of Directors to honor the business or person they admire most in our community. Board President, Bo Jennings selected Melanie Graten to receive this honor for her over 14 years of service to the Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce.
The Rising Star Award is awarded to a business that, while still in its early years, has shown significant growth and progress in its business and community endeavors. The Neighbor Business of the Year Award was bestowed upon a business member located outside of Bar Harbor who has made meaningful contributions to the local business community and displays an overall commitment to its employees and customers.
The Community Impact Award honors a business or individual who displayed an extraordinary commitment to making our community a better place for its residents, businesses, and guests.
The member business that has demonstrated a commitment to high standards of customer service, employee relations, and operational excellence is named the Business of the Year.
Business of the Year, Neighbor Business of the Year, and the Community Impact Awards were all voted from a list of nominees by members of the Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce.
During the dinner, the Chamber also honored the winner of this year’s prestigious Cadillac Award, which is given to a person who epitomizes the virtues of leadership, service, and sacrifice and the quest for personal excellence.
The 2024 awards recipients are:
President’s Award: Melanie Graten
Rising Star Award: Bar Harbor Lobster Pound
Neighbor Business of the Year: Scenic Flights of Acadia
Community Impact Award: Witham Family Hotels Charitable Fund
Business of the Year: Geddy’s
Cadillac Award: Dave Woodside
The Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce also recognized the 2024 Board of Directors and announced four newly elected directors starting their board terms that night. The 2024 Board of Directors includes Bo Jennings (president), John Bench (first vice president), Lauren Tucker (second vice president), Brandon Monroe (secretary), Deborah Vickers (treasurer), Kristi Bond, Steve Boucher, Rachel Crater, Krystal Jordan, and Eben Salvatore.
Stephanie Clement, Brenda Fernald, and Lauren Tucker were also recognized for completing their terms and passing the mantle onto the newly elected directors.
The new directors announced were Matt Horton from Machias Savings Bank, Bo Jennings from Side Street Cafe (re-elected), Christopher Kemna from Graffiti Donuts and the Loft Raw Bar & Seafood Lounge, and Bryan Paxton from Tucker Downeast Resources, Inc. who were voted on by members of the Chamber over the course of several weeks.
Additionally, the Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce revealed its refined mission statement and 2025-2027 Strategic Plan. Everal Eaton, Executive Director of the Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce said during his remarks, “We put together an amazing task force composed of six members from various backgrounds led by Vicki Hall from Machias Savings Bank that met over several months to develop the next iteration of the Chamber’s strategic plan.” The Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce’s mission statement now states: The purpose of the Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce is to advance its members’ interests and prosperity while facilitating relationships that build strong communities and promote responsible tourism.
Over the next three years, the Chamber’s strategic plan will focus on four strategic objectives:
1. Advocating for the Chamber’s members to support a thriving business climate
2. Facilitating relationships that build strong communities
3. Providing an exceptional visitor experience
4. Maintaining a strong organization that works towards its mission
Bo Jennings, president of the Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce said, “The Strategic Plan Task Force produced a lot of great focus that will serve our staff and members well. We look forward to the fruits of that effort, and living out the updated mission statement.”
The Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce 2024 Annual Dinner was presented by Bar Harbor Bank & Trust and sponsored by First National Bank, Machias Savings Bank, Versant Power, Atlantic Oceanside Hotel & Event Center, and Cape Air. Additional contributions were made by The Acadia Shop, Bay Ferries, Cape Air, Dobbs Productions, and Queen Anne’s Flower Shop. The Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce wishes to thank everyone who made the night possible and congratulate all award nominees for the work they do within our community.
About the Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce:
The Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce is a 501(c)(6) membership organization that represents approximately 400 businesses in the Bar Harbor and surrounding communities and provides business development opportunities, visitation services, and community-building events.
Click on the link below to access a YouTube listing of the 2024 Cadillac Award Video for Dave Woodside produced by Dobbs Productions.
2024CadillacAwardVideo-DaveWoodside
Bar Harbor Village Improvement Association Annual Meeting
BAR HARBOR—Join the Bar Harbor Village Improvement Association for its annual meeting on Tuesday, November 5, at 10 a.m. The meeting will be held at La Rochelle, home of the Bar Harbor Historical Society located at 127 West Street, Bar Harbor.
There will be updates on some of the ongoing restoration/improvement projects which the VIA is currently engaged in.
Healthy Acadia to Host Open House and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at New Ellsworth Location
ELLSWORTH—Healthy Acadia will host an open house and ribbon-cutting ceremony at its newest office at 77 Beechland Road in Ellsworth on Thursday, December. 5. The open house will take place from 4:30 to 7 p.m., with the ribbon-cutting scheduled for 5:30 p.m. The event is open to the public and all are invited to join in the celebration.
The event will provide an opportunity for the public to explore Healthy Acadia’s new space, which, in addition to housing offices, has already become a hub for community classes, trainings, and programs such as Tai Chi for Health and Recovery Coach Academy. Guests are invited to meet and mingle with members of the Board of Directors, staff, partners, and community members while enjoying refreshments and learning about community health needs and opportunities to get involved. Healthy Acadia extends special thanks to the Ellsworth Chamber of Commerce for partnering in the event.
While an RSVP is suggested to help with planning, it’s not required – everyone is welcome to drop in at any time during the event. If you'd like to RSVP, you can do so online at bit.ly/ha-beechland24.
For more information, visit Healthy Acadia’s website at www.healthyacadia.org, call 207-667-7171 Ext 210 or email events@healthyacadia.org.
Healthy Acadia is a 501(C)(3) community health organization building vibrant communities and making it easier for all people to lead healthy lives throughout Washington and Hancock counties. For more information about Healthy Acadia’s efforts to address food insecurity and other health initiatives, visit www.healthyacadia.org.
CHANGES ANNOUNCED FOR MOUNT DESERT REFUSE COLLECTION VETERANS DAY WEEK
MOUNT DESERT—There will be no refuse collection on Monday, Nov. 11, Veterans Day, the town office has announced. Monday and Tuesday refuse collection will be on Tuesday for that week, with no changes for the rest of the week. The town office will be closed on Nov. 11.
Call the “Garbage Hotline” at 276-5733 to leave a message regarding trash collection. The complete refuse schedule, including holidays and summer/winter schedule, is in the annual town report (look in the yellow pages) and on the town website and at the town office.
2025 NELL GOFF MEMORIAL - $2000 SCHOLARSHIP FOR COLLEGE JUNIORS, SENIORS, OR GRADUATE STUDENTS WHO ARE LEGAL RESIDENTS OF THE STATE OF MAINE
Applications Due by March 1, 2025
BAR HARBOR—The St. Croix District of the Garden Club Federation of Maine is pleased to announce a $2,000 scholarship to support students who are studying horticulture and or plant sciences including, Botany, Ecology, Forestry, Environmental Ecology, Sustainable Agriculture and Climate Change.
The Bar Harbor Garden Club as Trustee administers applications for the 2025 Nell Goff Memorial Scholarship. Please find applications online at NELL-GOFF-SCHOLARSHIP.pdf
The application form, personal letter by applicant, three letters of reference, grade transcripts, and list of activities are due by March 1, 2025. Please send applications to: Bar Harbor Garden Club, Scholarship Chairman, Tom McIntyre, 8 Eagles Way, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, or electronically to scholarship@barharborgardenclub.org. The winner will be notified no later than May 1st and will be invited to attend the annual spring meeting of the St. Croix District of the GCFM to receive the award.
To qualify students must be residents of Maine, regardless of the state in which they may be attending college. There is a preference given to applicants from Hancock and Washington counties. One must have successfully completed the second year of college/university study and have a declared major listed above. College sophomores are eligible, as they will be entering their junior year the following fall. Graduate students must be enrolled for the fall semester following the award of the scholarship.
For further information please contact BHGC Scholarship Chair, Tom McIntyre, tjmc1944@gmail.com or 207-288-4378. Follow Us on Facebook
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
The St. Croix District of the Garden Club Federation of Maine
The Bar Harbor Garden Club is a member of the Garden Club Federation of Maine, New England Garden Clubs, and National Garden Clubs.
First National Bank Hosts Its Sugar and Spice Drive
BAR HARBOR—First National Bank branches are collecting sweet treats and seasonings for local food pantries from now through Nov. 15. First National welcomes donations to local branches including sought-after items such as: cake, cookie, brownie and muffin mix, cinnamon, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder and taco seasoning.
“We are committed to making a meaningful impact with our annual Sugar and Spice drive,” said Tony McKim, president and CEO of First National Bank. “Through our outreach to local food pantries, we learned that spices, often overlooked, were in high demand, along with sweet treats that bring joy, especially during the holiday season.”
Acadia Artist-in-Residence To Teach Free Nature Poetry Workshop
NORTHEAST HARBOR— On Saturday, November 9, at 11:00 a.m. the Northeast Harbor Library will host a free writing workshop led by current Acadia National Park Artist-in-Residence Mike Bove.
Maine boasts a rich poetic tradition celebrating the natural landscape. This two-hour workshop will include an interactive reading activity featuring a selection of Maine-based nature poems, followed by a guided writing activity after a short break. Participants are asked to bring a small natural object or landscape photograph for inspiration. Register at nehlibrary.org/events or by calling 207-276-3333.
Mike Bove is the award-winning author of four books of poetry and a 2024 Artist-in-Residence at Acadia National Park. He is Professor of English at Southern Maine Community College, and lives in Portland where he was born and raised.
Bar Harbor Bank & Trust Announces Honor a Veteran Contest
BAR HARBOR—Bar Harbor Bank & Trust announced Nov. 1 the Honor a Veteran contest, an online campaign that gives community members the opportunity to nominate a veteran or active service member who they feel deserves recognition for their dedication to our country. One nominee will be selected to receive $1,000 cash and a $1,000 donation to a nonprofit organization of choice that specifically serves veterans.
The Bank will accept nominations at https://refer.barharbor.bank/veteran from Nov. 1-15. Nominees must have served or are currently serving in a branch of the U.S. military. In addition, nominees must be 18 years of age or above and reside in Maine, New Hampshire or Vermont.
“There are heroes living among us who have served this nation honorably as members of the U.S. military and whose dedication and valor have helped protect the rights and freedoms we enjoy every day as U.S. citizens,” said Joseph Schmitt, senior vice president, director of communications and chief marketing officer at Bar Harbor Bank & Trust. “In honor of the upcoming Veterans Day holiday, we want to recognize those heroes through our Honor a Veteran contest. We’re excited to learn more about the veterans living in our communities and are excited to award one deserving veteran a $1,000 gift as our small way of saying ‘thank you.’”
A complete list of contest rules is available at https://refer.barharbor.bank/veteran. Only one entry per person. The contest winner will be announced in late November 2024.
For more information about Bar Harbor Bank & Trust, visit www.barharbor.bank or call 888-853-7100.
SENATOR COLLINS ANNOUNCES HEATING FUEL AWARD
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Maine has been awarded $37,567,435 through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), U.S. Sen. Susan Collins, vice chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced Oct. 31. In addition, Maine tribes have been awarded $1,434,237.
LIHEAP is a crucial lifeline that helps low-income households and older Mainers on fixed incomes afford their energy bills, including those who use natural gas, propane, electricity and home heating oil. The program is administered by states and accessed through local Community Action Agencies. The agency for Hancock County is Downeast Community Partners.
Eligibility for LIHEAP is based on income, family size and the availability of resources. Senior citizens and those receiving Social Security Disability or SSI benefits are encouraged to apply as early as possible, but applications will be open to everyone through spring of 2025 — or until the funding is exhausted.
“With home energy costs remaining high, this federal funding will help to ensure that Mainers have access to affordable heating as we approach the cold winter months,” said Collins. “LIHEAP funding provides critical relief to low-income families and older Mainers, helping them stay warm without the constant worry of choosing between heating their homes and covering other basic necessities.”
YWCA’S WINTER MARKET BEGINS NOVEMBER 10
BAR HARBOR—The YWCA of Mount Desert Island will host an expanded indoor Winter Market for farmers and makers this year, beginning in November and running through April. Favorite local makers, farmers, artisans, bakers, crafters and other vendors will offer their products two Sundays a month from 9:30 to noon. The first market date is Nov. 10.
The initial Winter Market offered local produce and products at the YWCA in Bar Harbor one Sunday a month, supporting a sustainable Maine food economy while strengthening our local community. Thanks to the work of a dedicated team of organizers, this year’s market will take place twice a month and three Sundays in March.
Maggie Iannuzzi, who owns Precipice Coffee with her husband Bill, is one of the driving forces behind the expanded Winter Market. She said, “I put in the work to build this market, of course as a place to share our solar-roasted coffee and baked goods with locally sourced and organic ingredients, but also because I believe in supporting the farmers in our community.
"Knowing where your food comes from is a privilege, and I try my best to nurture that and share it with others. Our local food system is vibrant, but we all need to support each other to keep it growing - and it's my pleasure to do my part.”
Other confirmed vendors for this season’s market include Eden Street Flowers, Bill’s Bagels, Middle Earth Mushrooms, Rainbow Farm, Pen & Cob, Blazing Sky Farm and George’s Road. Each market will also include several local artisans and crafters.
An ongoing partnership with the Maine Federation of Farmers Markets will allow consumers to use SNAP benefits to buy farm and food products that are not consumed onsite. SNAP shoppers earn $1 in Maine Harvest Bucks for every $2 spent, redeemable for any Maine-grown produce at the market.
YWCA Mount Desert Island is in its 120th year of service on MDI. YWCA is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women, standing up for social justice, helping families and strengthening communities. It hosts the Winter Market and supports its growth as part of its work to help build a sustainable local food economy, support local growers and makers and strengthen the year-round community.
Reclaiming Childhood: Interrupting a Screen Based Childhood by Increasing Independence, and Free Play
BAR HARBOR—Targeted to parents of children age birth to 10, this workshop is designed to explore research around play and screen based childhoods and the impact both have on children. Parenting is hard, especially in the digital age. This workshop will provide strategies to help parents navigate fostering independence, encouraging free play and helping kids to have a healthy relationship with technology.
We will provide childcare in the Youth Room (the program will be held across the hall in the Periodicals Room). If you plan to bring your kids, please let us know more when you register. Refreshments will be served. Register here.
Andrea Howell, M.Ed., is an experienced educator who has specialized in working with children and families for over 30 years. She brings together her knowledge and expertise in the areas of child development, positive parenting and social-emotional development to support parents in creating a sense of calm, confidence and connection within themselves and their families. A resident of Mount Desert Island, Maine for the last 21 years, Andrea specializes in positive behavior supports, conflict resolution, and encouraging developmentally appropriate independence. Her business website can be found at www.andreawilsonhowell.com.
Tara McKernan, M.Ed, LCPC is a local therapist who runs a private practice at The Counseling Collaborative. Prior to her work as a counselor, Tara worked for 24 years as a school counselor and special education teacher. Currently, she is also teaching a class on child development at The College of the Atlantic. Her clinical work has a strong focus on anxiety, ADHD, depression and trauma. With a deep background in social-emotional learning, Tara also works closely with children and families to help strengthen those skills. Tara and her family live and work on MDI and have loved calling it home for the past 25 years. Additional information on Tara can be found at: www.taramckernancounseling.com
Author Talk with David Florig: “The Shattered Curling Stone”
BAR HARBOR—Maine author David Florig will discuss his new novel, The Shattered Curling Stone. The Shattered Curling Stone is a work of historical fiction, centered around young Ailsa Maclaren, who takes up curling at a time when women were neither encouraged, nor often permitted, to play the game. Set in late-1800s Scotland, it tells Ailsa’s story as she journeys from novice, to the Scottish Women’s Championship, and the World Championship. The Shattered Curling Stone is steeped in the history of women’s curling, both real and fictional. Along the way, Ailsa meets the very handsome and charming Lucas Plotcok, and therein lies the tale...
If you’ve ever wanted to learn more about the 500-year-old Scottish sport of curling, or are simply a fan of historical fiction and Scotland, you won’t want to miss this event. You will learn about the very special kind of ice used for curling, and will get to see and feel the curling stone made from 60-million-year-old Scottish granite, as well as a curling broom and shoes.
There will be readings from both the award-winning The Stones of Ailsa Craig and The Shattered Curling Stone, Q&A, and book signings.
Although curling provides the context for both novels, the books will appeal to fans of historical fiction and mysteries. The event will include readings, a real curling stone, Q&A, and book signing. All ages are welcome.
DAVID S. FLORIG lives in Ocean Park, Maine. Florig is a member of the Maine Writers and Publishers Alliance. He is a member and past-president of the Pine Tree Curling Club in Portland, as well as a member of the Belfast Curling Club in Maine. His debut novel, The Stones of Ailsa Craig, is an homage to Belfast, Maine; the glorious Maine coast; and the ancient Scottish sport of curling. Set in present-day Belfast, Maine and 1880s Scotland, the novel is a sometimes dark look into one man’s loss, loneliness, obsession, and quest for vengeance. Rich in curling and Maine history, The Stones of Ailsa Craig is a work of historical fiction.
The Stones of Ailsa Craig was named Best Historical Fiction for 2023 by Indies Today, was a 2023 Finalist for the American Writing Awards, and was nominated for a Maine Literary Award and the Eric Hoffer Award. It has been called a “crowning achievement” by The Feathered Quill.
Copies of The Shattered Curling Stone will be for sale courtesy of Sherman’s Maine Coast Bookshop. All sales the evening of the event benefit the Jesup.
Maine Curling Book Talk and Signing
The Shattered Curling Stone by David Florig
SOUTHWEST HARBOR—If you’ve ever wanted to learn more about the 500-year-old Scottish sport of curling, or are simply a fan of historical fiction and Scotland, you won’t want to miss this event. On Tuesday, November 12 at 5:30 p.m., the Southwest Harbor Public Library will host a talk and book signing with Maine author David Florig discussing his new novel, The Shattered Curling Stone.
Learn about the very special kind of ice used for curling, and see and feel the curling stone made from 60-million-year-old Scottish granite, as well as a curling broom and shoes. All ages are welcome to this in-person program. Registration encouraged for this in-person only program. David will read from both the award-winning The Stones of Ailsa Craig and The Shattered Curling Stone. Although curling provides the context for both novels, the books will appeal to fans of historical fiction and mysteries.
The Shattered Curling Stone is a work of historical fiction, centered around young Ailsa Maclaren, who takes up curling at a time when women were neither encouraged, nor often permitted, to play the game. Set in late-1800s Scotland, it tells Ailsa’s story as she journeys from novice, to the Scottish Women’s Championship, and the World Championship. The Shattered Curling Stone is steeped in the history of women’s curling, both real and fictional. Along the way, Ailsa meets the very handsome and charming Lucas Plotcok, and therein lies the tale …
Florig lives in Ocean Park, Maine and is a member of the Maine Writers and Publishers Alliance. He is a member and past president of the Pine Tree Curling Club in Portland, as well as a member of the Belfast Curling Club in Maine. His debut novel, “The Stones of Ailsa” Craig, is an homage to Belfast, Maine; the glorious Maine coast; and the ancient Scottish sport of curling.
To register for this talk visit https://tinyurl.com/2jbyjmfx. Call the library at 204-244-7065 or email programs@swhplibrary.org for more info.
Learning more about David, Maine curling, and find out Why in the world write a novel about curling? At https://www.davidflorig.com/post/why-in-the-world-write-a-novel-about-curling.
“A rare look into the struggles of women to gain admission and acceptance into the world of curling. A must-read for those who love the game and the pioneer women who made it possible.”
-Jamie Sinclair, Three-time United States Curling National Champion
Author Talk with Matt Cost: “Pirate Trap”
BAR HARBOR—Join us for an author talk with Matt Cost on his book “Pirate Trap.”
Did Black Sam bury pirate treasure in Port Essex 300 years ago?
After finding an incredibly lucrative Spanish treasure in the Keys of Florida, Black Sam Bellamy decided to leave the pirate life and return to his true love in New England. Before being shipwrecked on the way to retrieve her, he hid his booty with the Chbo So Clan in Port Essex.
Clay Wolfe had been slouched in the desk chair of his P.I. office, but now he straightened up and sat forward. His normally natty attire was ruffled, stubble dotted his face, and his eyes were red.
Clay Wolfe, devastated by the death of his grandfather, is hired by an antiques dealer to find a long-lost pirate treasure and finds himself pitted against an unscrupulous sex doll businessman, a motorcycle gang, a greedy salvage boat operator, and other mysterious entities. Also recruited for this treasure hunt is Clay’s crew: Westy, Crystal, Murphy, Cloutier, and of course, Baylee Baker.
And the spark between Clay and his partner, Baylee, finally bursts into flame…
Matt Cost is the highly acclaimed, award-winning author of the Mainely Mystery series. The first book, Mainely Power, was selected as the Maine Humanities Council Read ME Fiction Book of 2020. This was followed by Mainely Fear, Mainely Money, Mainely Angst, and Mainely Wicked. His Clay Wolfe/Port Essex Mysteries include Wolfe Trap, Mind Trap, Mouse Trap, and Cosmic Trap, and now, Pirate Trap. I Am Cuba: Fidel Castro and the Cuban Revolution was his first traditionally published novel. He had another historical released in August of 2021, Love in a Time of Hate, and in August 2022, Encircle re-released his originally self-published novel, At Every Hazard: Joshua Chamberlain and the Civil War.
Cost’s love of histories and mysteries is combined in the novel, Velma Gone Awry, book one in his new series featuring private eye, 8 Ballo, set in 1920’s Brooklyn. The second book, City Gone Askew, will publish in August of 2024.
Cost lives in Brunswick, Maine, with his wife, Harper. There are four grown children: Brittany, Pearson, Miranda, and Ryan. A chocolate Lab and a basset hound round out the mix. He now spends his days at the computer, writing.
Copies of “Pirate Trap” will be for sale courtesy of Sherman’s Maine Coast Book Shop. All sales the evening of the event benefit the Jesup. Register to attend in-person or online here: https://www.jesuplibrary.org/events/cost
November Story Time N’ Climb at Volta with Ms. Chrissy
SOUTHWEST HARBOR— Southwest Harbor Public Library and Volta are partnering to host a Storytime N’ Climb at Volta on Saturday, November 16 from 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. for ages 3+. Southwest Library’s storytime extraordinaire Ms. Chrissy will provide a storytime (10:00-10:40 a.m), with stories about climbing, perseverance, and problem solving, puppets, bubbles, songs, rhymes, and more. The storytime is free! You’re welcome to join us for a fun morning and just visit the space.
If you’re interested in staying and climbing, Volta’s program coordinator will give a short introduction to climbing safety and help you prepare for your climbing adventures. Let our welcoming and experienced staff make it easy and enjoyable for you and your child to take your first steps into the exciting world of climbing! The climbing portion is $10 for non-members and free for members.
Climbing Benefits for Kids (& Adults) include: building confidence; improving coordination and building motor skills, increasing strength and flexibility, enhancing problem-solving skills, and it’s fun!
Register here: https://voltaclimbing.com/story-climb. For info and questions, email children@swhplibrary.org, or call 207-244-7065.
Tween Trivia Night in Southwest Harbor
SOUTHWEST HARBOR—Join us for an evening of fun and friendly competition with Tween Trivia Night Wednesday, November 13th at 6:30 p.m. at the Southwest Harbor Public Library with a special performance by Conners Emerson Showstoppers! Geared for grades 4-8, the fun goes until 8:00 p.m. with trivia challenges covering everything from pop culture to modern musicals like Hamilton and more.
Here’s the scoop:
Team Up: Team of up to 6. (Remember, no cheating—keep those phones tucked away!)
Rounds: Three rounds of challenges, including one bonus round.
Win Prizes: Prizes for the top 3 teams.
Popcorn and lemonade will be served.
Don’t miss out—registration is required! Gather your squad and get ready.
Register at https://tinyurl.com/5d9tubwn, or email children@swhplibrary.org or call 244-7065.
Maine Warden Service is now hiring seasonal Deputy Game Wardens
AUGUSTA—These positions are part time positions, from May 9, 2024 to the end of August. Deputy game wardens are assigned to specific bodies of water to enforce recreational boating rules and regulations.
Deputies will be assigned to the Sebago Lakes Region, Belgrade Lakes Region, or Moosehead Lake Region depending on operational need. It will be expected that these deputy game wardens will work in state issued watercraft, patrolling specific bodies of water. The deputy’s primary mission will include, educating the boating public, handing out department-sponsored literature, and issuing warnings and summonses for boating violations. This is certified, uniformed, law enforcement work as a member of Maine Warden Service.
The hiring process is open until December 20, 2024.
Join the Maine Department of Labor for no-cost upcoming workplace safety trainings!
Upcoming classes:
Lead Safety -
November 5, 2024 l 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. SafetyWorks! Training Institute, 45 Commerce Drive, Augusta
This half-day course provides information on OSHA's Lead Standards for Construction and General Industry (1926.62 and 1910.1025). The information obtained in this lead safety program helps you understand the standards and lowers your risk for illness related to lead exposure.
Cold Illness Prevention -
November 6, 2024 l 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. SafetyWorks! Training Institute, 45 Commerce Drive, Augusta
Whether it be outside on a construction site or working in an industrial freezer., some worksites in Maine can be very cold. This half-day class provides recommendations to prevent cold illnesses. Discuss signs and symptoms of hypothermia, trench foot, and other cold stress hazards.
10-Hour Construction Standards -
November 7 & 8, 2024 l 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. (Day 1); 8:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. (Day 2) SafetyWorks! Training Institute, 45 Commerce Drive, Augusta
This one-and-a-half-day course offers basic information on a variety of construction industry safety/health standards (29 CFR 1926). Attendees who complete the course will receive an OSHA 10-hour course completion certificate.
Incident Investigation/Injury Analysis –
November 13, 2024 l 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. SafetyWorks! Training Institute, 45 Commerce Drive, Augusta
When work doesn’t go as planned, incidents and close calls happen. Investigating these incidents can prevent similar or even more serious problems from happening. In this half-day class, learn how to conduct a thorough investigation and how to use results to prevent future incidents.
Scaffolding & Fall Protection –
November 14, 2024 l 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. SafetyWorks! Training Institute, 45 Commerce Drive, Augusta
This course covers the OSHA requirements for scaffolding and fall protection, including the definition of "competent person."
Trenching & Excavation –
November 15, 2024 l 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. SafetyWorks! Training Institute, 45 Commerce Drive, Augusta
This course explains the dangers to employees from trenching and excavation operations, soil classifications, OSHA requirements, and the types of protective systems to prevent cave-ins. You will also learn with is meant by a “competent person.”
Lifting & Rigging Safety -
November 18, 2024 l 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. SafetyWorks! Training Institute, 45 Commerce Drive, Augusta
Lift planning is essential to safe-lifting practices. This program provides a basic understanding or review of your knowledge about lifting safely in the workplace. It will help you determine what you may need for a lift and what type of equipment to use, including communications through signals, written, or verbal plans.
Respiratory Protection –
November 19, 2024 l 8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. SafetyWorks! Training Institute, 45 Commerce Drive, Augusta
Where workers are required to wear respirators to do their jobs, employers need a respiratory protection program. This course helps you determine your respiratory protection needs and covers all the elements of a written respiratory protection program.
Impairment Detection Training for Employers –
November 20, 2024 l 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. SafetyWorks! Training Institute, 45 Commerce Drive, Augusta
This one-day training session is designed to help owners, managers, and supervisors recognize and respond appropriately to employee-impairment in the workplace to reduce worker accidents and injuries. Participants will be taught procedures to detect impairment regardless of the substance or cause. This class is designed to fulfill the federal DOT requirements for reasonable suspicion training of supervisors. In addition, participants will learn how to develop and implement policies that address impairment in the workplace and are in compliance with Maine's Substance Use Testing Law.
Automotive Lift/Jack Stand Safety and Compliance –
November 21, 2024 l 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. SafetyWorks! Training Institute, 45 Commerce Drive, Augusta
This half-day course provides training on the proper operation of multiple types of automotive lifts, jacks and jack stands, inspection, compliance reporting, training, and documentation required by various inspecting agencies. The course will provide the information needed for safer workplace, which helps eliminate citations and can possibly lower a company's workers compensation insurance expense. The course will have classroom and hands-on training.
2025 SafetyWorks! Training Institute course listing and registration is now open at www.safetyworksmaine.gov/register
Register and browse more SafetyWorks! classes: https://www.safetyworksmaine.gov/training/scheduled_classes/register.shtml
If you have questions about safety or upcoming classes, reach out to SafetyWorks! at 1-877-SAFE-345 or general.bls-safetyworks@maine.gov.
If you have questions about Wage and Hour compliance, please reach out to the Wage and Hour Division at 207-623-7900 or bls.mdol@maine.gov, or visit www.maine.gov/labor/bls/
CoverME.gov's Fourth Annual Open Enrollment Begins November 1
Oct 28, 2024
Mainers without health coverage may enroll through CoverME.gov to receive financial savings on high quality health insurance
AUGUSTA—The Maine Department of Health and Human Services' (DHHS) Office of the Health Insurance Marketplace (OHIM) announced today that the fourth annual Open Enrollment period for 2025 will begin on Friday, November 1, 2024. Maine people without access to health or dental insurance coverage through their employer, Medicare, or the state's Medicaid plan, known as MaineCare are encouraged to find coverage through Maine's official health insurance marketplace, CoverME.gov.
Open enrollment runs from November 1, 2024 through January 15, 2025. Maine people can visit CoverME.gov to compare private plans, apply for financial savings, and enroll in a 2025 health and dental insurance plan.
Consumers must enroll by December 15 for coverage that begins January 1, 2025. January 15, 2025 is the last day to enroll for 2025 coverage, with benefits starting on February 1, 2025. Open Enrollment is the only time of year when consumers can enroll in coverage through CoverME.gov unless they qualify for a special enrollment period as a result of a qualifying event, such as losing insurance provided through a job or MaineCare, a change in marital status, or having a baby.
"I encourage Maine people to visit CoverME.gov to explore their options and spread the word to help make sure that no person in Maine goes without health insurance that could save their life," said Governor Janet Mills. "Enrolling by December 15th will ensure that your coverage takes effect January 1, 2025 -- preventing a gap in your health insurance."
"We encourage all Maine people who need affordable health or dental insurance to visit during Open Enrollment to find coverage that fits their needs at a price that works for their budget," said DHHS Commissioner Sara Gagné-Holmes. "Having insurance is a critical component to staying healthy and offers quality, affordable coverage for doctor's visits, prescription drugs, mental health, emergencies, and hospitalizations."
All plans offered through CoverME.gov provide quality, comprehensive insurance that protects consumers if they have an accident or major illness and fully pays for preventive screenings. This year, thousands of Maine people will continue to save hundreds of dollars on average on their CoverME.gov health care premiums due to enhanced premium tax credits available through 2025. Today, 85% of people enrolled in CoverME.gov coverage qualify for help to pay for health insurance and save $560 a month on average (PDF).
"Even those who could not afford coverage or did not qualify previously should check out CoverME.gov to see what financial savings they may qualify for," said Hilary Schneider, Director of the DHHS Office of the Health Insurance Marketplace, which runs CoverME.gov. "Forty percent of Mainers who enroll on CoverME.gov pay premiums of $99 or less a month. If you, or a friend, neighbor or family member don't have health or dental coverage, now is the time to shop for coverage."
Those with current coverage through CoverME.gov will be automatically enrolled in the plan that most closely matches their current plan unless they act during Open Enrollment. DHHS encourages re-enrollees to go to CoverME.gov and review and compare plans to ensure the plan they have is best suited to their health care needs and budget.
"I am not tech savvy, but I found the CoverME.gov website very easy to use," said Linda Grisham of Portland. "It is a great site and the broker's assistance was extremely helpful. I also found an excellent selection of so many health plan choices that were affordable and that really met my needs."
"I understand people who think health insurance is going to be prohibitively expensive, but I would encourage people to go on the CoverME.gov website and get a quote because with the subsidies it really does make it affordable for people," said Lori Austin of Hancock. "Having coverage through CoverME takes a lot of pressure off of me and gives me peace of mind, which is worth a lot."
"I went online, filled out the CoverME.gov application, was approved, and found a plan that works for our family of four. It was really easy. It is nice that it pays for preventative care and is also great when there is a health issue," said Neil Cheseldine of Brunswick. "When your health insurance is not tied to your job it gives you more flexibility and options for career choices. Because CoverME.gov exists, my wife and I have the freedom in our careers to do some other things that we want to do."
CoverME.gov will continue to offer individual or family health plans from Anthem, Community Health Options, Harvard Pilgrim Health Care, and Taro Health. CoverME.gov offers dental plans from Anthem and Northeast Delta Dental. Help is available for consumers looking to find the plan that fits their needs at a price that works for their budget. Visit coverme.gov/localhelp or call (866) 636-0355/TTY 711 (for languages other than English, choose option 4) for information. The Consumer Assistance Center will be open Monday through Friday from 8am to 8pm and will have expanded hours on Saturday, December 7th from 9am to 5pm, Monday, December 9th through Sunday, December 15th from 8am to 10pm, and Monday, January 13th through Wednesday, January 15th from 8am to 10pm.
In 2023, more than 60,000 Mainers enrolled in health coverage for 2024 through CoverME.gov. Based on consumer and stakeholder feedback, over the last year OHIM has made it easier to find important information on the website, and streamlined the application to improve usability, accessibility, and security. CoverME.gov is at the heart of Maine's effort to ensure that people can see their doctor, afford their medications, and stay healthy. CoverME.gov is a one-stop shop for health care coverage and the only place Mainers can get financial assistance to reduce out-of-pocket costs for coverage. People who apply through CoverME.gov who are eligible for MaineCare will have their application sent to MaineCare for review. Eligible Maine people can enroll in MaineCare at any time of year.
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