Briefs: Gorham Rescue Update, Sugar Showdown, Bar Harbor Road Closures
Embark on the ultimate outdoor challenge
The Bar Harbor Story is generously sponsored by The Witham Family Hotels Charitable Fund.
A Quick Note From Us: Each week, we compile briefs and press releases and event images and share them all in one (sometimes very long) story.
Our briefs article is mostly just press releases that we don’t write, or claim to write, but just share from the agencies, businesses, and organizations that send them in.
If things are not a press release, they are labelled “BRIEF” in their headlines. The press releases will not have that label.
Second Annual Sugar Showdown Returns February 8, 2025
Island Connections Invites Bakers to Register for a Sweet Celebration of Community
BAR HARBOR—Calling all bakers!
Island Connections invites you to join the agency for its second annual Sugar Showdown. The sweet celebration of community and confections will take place Saturday, February 8, from 4-6 p.m. at the Atlantic Oceanside in Bar Harbor.
Bakers of all levels can compete to showcase their talents in four exciting categories. Joining last year’s Whoopie Pie, Sweet Surprise, and Showstopper categories is a new category in celebration of Maine’s favorite berry: Blueberry Bliss. Bakers will compete to win the hearts of attendees with the coveted ‘Community Favorite Award’ in addition to prizes for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place in each category, and the ‘Judges’ Favorite Showstopper’ award.
General admission will be $10 per person prior to the event or $15 at the door, granting access to a variety of dessert samples from all four categories, live music by Washboard Rebellion, tokens to vote on your favorite goodies, and a raffle for the Showstopper cakes.
To participate as a baker or to purchase advanced tickets, please visit the Island Connections website: islconnections.org
All proceeds for this event will go directly toward Island Connections’ mission of providing free transportation and services to seniors and people with disabilities, enhancing their independence and quality of life. “This Valentine’s Day event is such a great way to celebrate the love and care that our volunteers share across this island every day,” said Executive Director Carissa Tinker, “the baked goods at the Sugar Showdown are almost as sweet as our volunteers.”
For inquiries and additional information, please contact Carissa Tinker at carissa@islconnections.org or call 207-288-4457.
BRIEF: INJURED HIKER UPDATE
The 68-year-old woman who fell while hiking on Gorham Mountain with her husband at 4:30 p.m. on New Year’s Eve was unable to walk without assistance, which is why she was rescued by National Park employees and volunteers as well as MDI Search and Rescue. She’d slipped and injured her lower leg.
Acadia National Park Management Assistant John Kelly wrote in an email at 10:45 a.m. Friday, “At 4:30 p.m. on December 31, 2024, the park received a 911 call concerning a 68-year-old female who had slipped from a standing position on the Gorham Mountain trail and injured her lower leg, which prevented her from walking out on her own. Five NPS employees, two NPS volunteers, and 11 MDI SAR volunteers responded and conducted a carry out to the Gorham Mountain parking lot on the Park Loop Road for a distance of about 1/8 mile. They arrived at the parking lot at 7:30 p.m. It was not a technical rescue, but it was dark, and the trail was wet and slippery. The patient was hiking with her husband who provided transportation from the scene. We do not know if she was not hospitalized or the current condition of the patient.”
Gilley Winter Session Opens with Raptor Drawing, Paint ‘n’ Sip
SOUTHWEST HARBOR—The Wendell Gilley Museum kicks off its Winter Session with two different art workshops. First up is a Paint ‘n’ Sip of chickadees on a snowy branch on Friday, January 10 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. with instructor Erika Rosso. She will guide students step by step through the process, explaining each step along the way. Sip on wine, tea or seltzer as part of this adults-only class, which is suitable for artists of all levels who are at least 21 years old. All materials and beverages provided.
Then, on Saturday, January 11, wildlife artist and Maine Master Naturalist Michael Boardman will lead a two-hour workshop on learning to field sketch with a focus on birds of prey. He will guide students through work on body shapes and details specific to raptors, with a concentration on drawing with students’ own favorite tools. Class will be part lecture, part demo and part hands-on using mounted specimens. If time allows there may be a watercolor demo at the end. Some basic drawing skills coming in will be helpful but are not absolutely necessary. Supplies will be on hand but feel free to bring your own as well.
The Gilley’s 2025 Winter Session runs every Friday and Saturday from January 10 through April 26, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day. In addition to scheduled workshops, Carving Club – for carvers of all skill levels – happens all day on Fridays, and there will be do-it-yourself art projects available both Friday and Saturdays.
The museum’s monthly People-Nature-Art series continues each month, beginning with Amy Pollien on Tuesday, January 14. And there are two new art exhibits up: in the Special Exhibits Gallery we have works by woodblock printer Dan Miller, and in the Main Gallery we are featuring works by Islesford painter Rick Alley, Jr. who has won the Maine Duck Stamp Contest more than any artist in the contest’s history.
To sign up for any program, or for more information, visit the Gilley’s website at www.wendellgilleymuseum.org or call us at 207-244-7555.
Embark on the ultimate outdoor challenge
Are you ready for an adventure that will redefine your connection with the great outdoors? Step into the new year with NatureQuest 2025, a seasonal challenge designed to elevate your sense of adventure this year.
What is NatureQuest 2025?
NatureQuest 2025 is an invitation to explore, connect, and grow within Maine's stunning landscapes. Whether you're an avid outdoor enthusiast or someone looking to embark on your first adventure, NatureQuest is your gateway to a journey filled with exploration, community, and personal triumphs.
Why join the challenge?
We believe that every NatureQuest participant is unique, and so are their aspirations. When you register, you'll have the opportunity to share your preferences and areas of experience. This will allow you to set realistic goals to push your limits this year. We'll curate personalized suggestions throughout the seasons to align with your vision of outdoor adventure.
Diverse Adventures - From coastal wonders to mountain trails, NatureQuest covers an assortment of terrains for you to explore.
Wildlife Connection - Immerse yourself in Maine's rich biodiversity and witness the wonders of its wildlife.
Sustainable Exploration - Learn and practice eco-friendly outdoor activities, contributing to the conservation of Maine's natural resources.
Skill Development - Challenge yourself to develop new outdoor skills or build upon what you have already learned, making each adventure a step towards personal growth.
Community Spirit - Forge connections with other outdoor enthusiasts, sharing stories and experiences, making outdoor adventures even more memorable.
Four chances to win:
Throughout the journey, we'll offer seasonal check-in forms to celebrate your progress. Each check-in submission enters participants into our raffle for a chance to win MDIFW logo gear and apparel each season.
Don't miss out on the chance to make NatureQuest your own. Are you ready to join the challenge?
Town Office Closed - Weekly Trash Schedule Amended
Martin Luther King Jr. Day
MOUNT DESERT—The Town Office will be closed in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
No trash pick up on Martin Luther King Jr. Day: Monday, January 20, 2025. Monday and Tuesday pick up will be on Tuesday. No change the rest of the week.
ONE LANE TRAFFIC ON ROUTE 3 in HULLS COVE
BAR HARBOR—One-lane alternating traffic will be in use on Route 3 in Hulls Cove between Neighborhood Road and Loren Street from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on January 6-8, 2025, to facilitate contractor sewer reline project. https://www.barharbormaine.gov//CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=1531
The Town’s Contractor will begin replacing the existing water main in the vicinity of the Cromwell Brook bridge on Monday, January 6. https://www.barharbormaine.gov//CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=1530
Main Street and Hancock Street Traffic and Water Disruptions on Monday January 6th
BAR HARBOR—In preparation for future water main projects on Main Street, a water shutdown is planned for Monday, January 6. Main Street customers between Mount Desert Street and Pleasant Street will be without water from 10 a.m. to approximately 2 p.m. Roughly 60 water customers served from the water main on Main Street will be without water during this time. Each affected building will receive a door hanger notice on Thursday, January 2. Water service to side streets should not be affected. If you have questions, contact the Bar Harbor Water Division at 1-207-288-3555 or email water@barharbormaine.gov.
To facilitate the work, Hancock Street and a portion of Main Street will be one-lane, alternating traffic from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Monday, January 6, 2025. The section of Main Street affected is between Mount Desert Street and Pleasant Street.
Please note that water shutdowns may cause customers to experience some discolored water once water service resumes. We encourage affected customers to run their cold water tap until the water becomes clear.
BOOM CONCERT!
Heidi Powell, baroque violin & Max Treitler, baroque cello of Baroque Orchestra of Maine (BOOM) will present a concert on Saturday, January 11 at 4 p.m. at Bar Harbor Congregational Church.
Baroque Orchestra of Maine or BOOM will present a concert on Saturday, January 11 at 4 p.m. at Bar Harbor Congregational Church. Heidi Powell, baroque violin and Max Treitler, baroque cello will perform baroque music on period instruments. The concert will feature the popular work 'Autumn' from the 4 Seasons by Antonio Vivaldi, as well as a Concerto from 'La Stravaganza' by Vivaldi and sonatas by George Frederick Handel, Heinrich Biber & Archangelo Corelli. Tickets are available at the door by cash or check or on the group website by Paypal. Adults are $25, students are free. For more information about the performers or the concert call 207-479-2845, e-mail fiddleheadheidi@hotmail.com or visit: baroqueorchestraofmaine.org
Advance Screening and Discussion of Free for All: The Public Library – Wednesday, January 22 at 5:30 p.m. in person
MOUNT DESERT—The Northeast Harbor Library will host an advance public screening of the documentary Free for All: The Public Library on Wednesday January 22 at 5:30 p.m.. A discussion with Northeast Harbor Library Director Amy Wisehart will follow the screening. This free public screening is made possible by Indie Lens Pop-Up, a national community series that brings people together for film screenings and conversations. The film will air on PBS in April.
Free for All: The Public Library tells the story of the quiet revolutionaries who created a civic institution where everything is free and the doors are open to all.
The public library is one of America’s most valued yet endangered institutions. Director Dawn Logsdon travels the United States, discovering historic and modern-day figures, especially women, who contributed to the library’s integral position within democracy. Free for All: The Public Library chronicles the evolution of the nation’s public libraries, tracing the battles over who can enter, what belongs there, and who makes these decisions, while exploring how public commons are defined and defended.
The hour-long screening will be followed by an engaging and interactive discussion led by Amy Wisehart, Director of the Northeast Harbor Library and current President of the Maine Library Association, about how public libraries shaped the country and continue to be a sanctuary for Americans everywhere, despite the threats to funding the civic institution has faced in recent years.
For more information or to register, visit the library’s website at nehlibrary.org. This event will be held in person, and registration is recommended. For more information about the film, see https://www.pbs.org/independentlens/documentaries/free-for-all/
Author Talk: Loving the North Woods, 25 Years of Historic Conservation in Maine
Thursday, January 16, 6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
BAR HARBOR—In the upcoming book talk Loving the North Woods, Karin Tilberg, one of Maine’s experts on Maine’s vast woodlands and highly regarded past-president/CEO of the Forest Society of Maine, will outline the difficult challenges that led to tremendous conservation successes during a remarkable period of activity from 1990 to 2015.
During this time of tremendous forest ownership changes, Maine went from about 5% of the state having some form of conservation, to having 22% being conserved in some manner. Seven major conservation initiatives in the North Woods were significant factors in this tremendous outcome. The forces that brought forth this seismic change and heretofore untold stories of conserving Maine’s North Woods will be described. As these historic achievements in American conservation unfolded, the author will explore how people love a place and bring that love into action. The author hopes these stores will inspire and guide us now and far into the future.
Those who treasure forests, own forestland, recreate in the woods and on forest-surrounded lakes and rivers, participate in forest-related industries, study woodland ecology, and/or recognize the global importance of Maine forests for carbon sequestration and migratory birds will find this an informative and inspirational conservation chronicle.
Karin Tilberg has a B.S. in Wildlife Biology from the University of Vermont and a J.D. from the University of Maine School of Law. She started her career as an attorney, initially at the law firm of Perkins, Townsend & Shay in Skowhegan and later as the Staff Attorney and Director of Advocacy for the Maine Audubon Society. She has been a strong advocate for the conservation of the North Woods, promoting sustainable forestry, and supporting healthy, diverse local economies. Tilberg has provided guidance on environmental and natural resource law and policy matters to individuals and organizations for decades. She became the Maine Director, and then interim Director for the Northern Forest Alliance from 1998 to 2003, following which she served as Deputy Commissioner of the Maine Department of Conservation from 2003 to 2007. From 2007 to 2010, she worked as a Senior Policy Advisor to Governor John E. Baldacci. During this time, she directed and implemented Governor Baldacci’s natural resource, environmental, and energy policies, co-chaired the Governor’s Natural Resource Agency Task Force, and participated in stakeholder groups for the Executive Office. Most recently, Tilberg has been the president and CEO of the Forest Society of Maine, where she has worked since 2011, retiring this past November 2024.
CONTRA DANCE
BAR HARBOR—Come warm a winter's night at our monthly contra dance! Music by Big Moose. Caller Chrissy Fowler will teach all dances. All levels, families welcome. Refreshments. $10 donation to benefit Jesup library.
Questions, call the library: 207-288-4245
FROST FAIR
Maine DEP Launches Special Grant Round to Boost Organic Waste Diversion
AUGUSTA—Grant submissions are being accepted by the Maine Department of Environmental Protection to help develop, implement, or enhance projects, programs, or activities aimed at increasing the diversion of organic waste from disposal. Eligible projects may include but are not limited to the following categories: organic waste diversion education, source reduction, upcycling of discarded materials, donations of food or other materials, composting and digestion. Projects that make any mention of disposal methods (such as landfilling or waste to energy incineration) are strongly discouraged and will not be considered.
All interested municipalities, regional associations and Maine businesses are encouraged to apply. At the end of this RFP process, the Department will provide awards for selected proposals ranging from $1,000 - $60,000 ($240,000 total). The Department will give preference to proposals that:
promote Maine’s Food Recovery Hierarchy, 38 MRSA §2201-B. Food recovery hierarchy,
increase organics management infrastructure in underserved areas of the state,
take advantage of regional economies of scale, and/or
expand food rescue, recovery and organics management efforts through focused educational programs.
Furthermore, in accordance with 38 MRSA §2201-B. Maine Solid Waste Diversion Grant Program, the Department shall give highest priority in the awarding of funds under this section to programs, projects, initiatives, or activities proposed by municipal or regional association applicants.
Application details on the RFP # 202412217 – “Waste Diversion Grants Program” are available on-line at Request for Proposals, Maine DEP. Written questions on the RFP must be submitted by January 11, 2025 (using the form included in the RFP), and proposals must be submitted electronically by 11:59 p.m. on January 31, 2025.
A copy of the RFP, as well as the Question & Answer Summary and all amendments related to this RFP, can be obtained at the following website: https://www.maine.gov/dafs/bbm/procurementservices/vendors/grants.
JOURNALISM SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE
To encourage students in Maine who are exploring careers in journalism, the Maine Press Association each year awards MPA scholarships to current university students and high school seniors planning to attend college in the coming year.
As such, the MPA is pleased to announce it is accepting applications for this year’s scholarship.
The MPA’s journalism scholarship will be awarded to one or more students who plan to pursue a career in journalism in order to support a student’s study or professional enrichment activities as they relate to a future career in journalism.
Scholarships are awarded up to $2,000 each.
Qualifications:
Expected to enroll in college study in Fall 2025 or currently enrolled in college study.
Demonstrated commitment to a career in journalism (internships, employment, involvement with student news organization)
Demonstrated financial need (this can be indicated in the field provided on the application by noting employment required to pay for tuition, Pell Grant eligibility, scholarships, etc.)
Residents of Maine, whether attending an in-state or out-of-state institution, will have preference in the application process. Students attending Maine higher education institutions who are residents of other states will be considered as funds remain available.
The Maine Press Association strongly encourages candidates interested in working for its member organizations to apply. A list of members can be found at mainepressassociation.org.
Application process: Complete this application form by Monday, Feb. 3. Application includes a brief cover letter explaining what the scholarship will mean for you, resume and three examples of your best work, which may include stories and/or multimedia projects. An interview may be scheduled after review of application materials is completed. For questions, please email micaela@themainemonitor.org.
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