BUSY WEEK FOR TOWN MEETINGS
On The Agenda - Bar Harbor Town Meetings, Events, & Things to Do
ON THE AGENDA
Every week we document Bar Harbor town government, school, and other similar meetings that we know of. Please let us know if we’ve missed something. Also, sometimes things are on the town calendars and are cancelled or rescheduled, so make sure to double check before you head over!
All the meetings take place at the Bar Harbor Municipal Building at 93 Cottage Street unless otherwise noted. And they usually have a time for public comments. This is not true about executive sessions, which are closed to the public.
So, go! Be informed! Be part of the process. You deserve to be.
To see the town meeting calendar by month, click here.
To see the school board calendar by month, click here
BAR HARBOR GOVERNMENT MEETINGS!
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC!
MONDAY, JANUARY 8
TASK FORCE ON CLIMATE EMERGENCY
Time: 4 P.M.
Location: Council Auditorium(third floor), Municipal Building, 93 Cottage Street
BAR HARBOR SCHOOL BOARD
Time: 4 p.m.
Location: MDI High School Library
HARBOR COMMITTEE
Time: 4 p.m.
Location: Council Auditorium(third floor), Municipal Building, 93 Cottage Street
CONSERVATION COMMISSION
Time: 5:30 p.m.
Location: Conference Room (third floor), Municipal Building, 93 Cottage Street
MDI HIGH SCHOOL BOARD
Time: 5 p.m.
Location: MDI High School Library
AOS BOARD
Time: 6:30 p.m.
Location: MDI High School Library and YouTube-
TUESDAY JANUARY 9
APPEALS BOARD
For instructions on how to participate and join the meeting via Zoom go to https://www.barharbormaine.gov/216/Appeals-Board
The Zoom link for this meeting is: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83164414958?pwd=YTExd0ZVUUFRUnFZNTVNcndVRWZLdz09
Meeting ID: 831 6441 4958 Passcode: 123456789
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 10
COMPREHENSIVE PLANNING COMMITTEE
The public may also view the meeting on Town Hall Streams at: https://townhallstreams.com/towns/bar_harbor_me
Time: 6 P.M.
Location: Council Chambers (third floor), Municipal Building, 93 Cottage Street
THURSDAY, JANUARY 11
DESIGN REVIEW BOARD
No agenda currently posted, check to make sure the meeting is happening before you head over!
Things to Do In Bar Harbor
It’s our weekly round-up, and I may have missed some things so apologies!
To check out our news stories from the past week. Click on the archive section and you’ll see them in chronological order.
GET YOUR SCIENCE ON!
MDI SCIENCE CAFÉ: A Unique Fish May Unlock the Secrets of Aging
Join the MDI Bio Lab for the first virtual MDI Science Cafe of 2024.
Science Cafe guest Anastasia Paulmann, M.D., is pioneering the use of the African Turquoise Killifish to reveal how the health and functionality of aging blood vessels can be maintained and enhanced. Thanks to its short lifespan, the fish is an emerging model for human health at MDI Bio Lab.
Jan 8, 2024 at 5:00PM - 6:00PM
Virtual
GET YOUR HERO ON!
BAR HARBOR FIRE DEPARTMENT
To check if Bar Harbor Fire Department is currently hiring, please go to the town’s jobs page.
But even if it isn’t, you can become a call member
Becoming a call force firefighter requires extensive training, hard work, and dedication to the community. We rely on call force firefighters to respond quickly to emergencies, to perform firefighting duties, and to provide assistance and support to career firefighters. To be a fall force firefighter is to have a chance to aid and serve the community, which is an extremely rewarding experience.
GET YOUR VOICE OUT THERE!
GET YOUR SMALL BUSINESS GOING!
Four Steps to Unlocking Profits in 2024
A free webinar by College the Atlantic and Profit Decoder to help small businesses thrive.
January 9
11 a.m.–12 p.m.
Online
Register at profitdecoder.com/classes/four-steps-to-unlocking-profits-in-2024
GET YOUR SUPPORT GROUP ON!
GET YOUR NOR’EASTER ON!
GET YOUR VOLTA ON!
Volta, in Trenton, has a ton of things always going on. You can check that out here.
GET YOUR BAKED BEAN SUPPER ON!
Join us at Mount Desert Island High School for the first time since 2020! The 13th Annual Baked Bean Supper is a beloved community gathering featuring dozens of volunteer cooks and their varieties of beans, pies, and all the fixings.
It’s January 15 at MDI High School from 6-8.
The supper will be followed by a concert with the Bagaduce Northern New England Ensemble, playing contra dance music from the Northeastern United States, focusing on the traditional fiddle style of Maine. With energetic and danceable music, this nine-piece band captures the instrumentation and sound that dominated Maine’s rural dance halls for the 19th and 20th centuries.
Tickets may be purchased online at https://mdihistory.org/shop or at the Sound Schoolhouse. Tickets will also be available at the door the night of the event. $10/adults & $5/children
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The Bagaduce Northern New England Ensemble was formed from participants in lessons and guided jam sessions offered by Bagaduce Music at its Blue Hill campus. For more information about Bagaduce Music, go to www.bagaducemusic.org.
Members of the Bagaduce Northern New England Ensemble:
Bennett Konesni: Guitar/Fiddle
Benjamin Foss, Brooks: Lead Fiddle/ Multi-instrumentalist
Esther Adams: Fiddle
John Ennis: Stand-up Bass
Tim Garrity: Guitar
Joshua Popkins: Guitar
Sam Robbins: Mandolin
Geoff Warner: Fiddle
Basha Wyeth: Piano
GET YOUR INSIGHT ON!
Jesup Memorial Library, in collaboration with the MDI Racial Equity Working Group, is pleased to announce an engaging and informative evening with Vice Chief Richard Silliboy of the Mi'kmaq Nation. The event will take place on Thursday, January 18th, at 7 p.m. at Jesup Memorial Library.
Vice Chief Silliboy, a distinguished leader residing on tribal land in Littleton, Maine, will share valuable insights into the rich heritage of the Mi'kmaq tribe. As a dedicated father of five and Co-Chair of the Abbe's Executive Committee, Vice Chief Silliboy is recognized for his leadership and artistic prowess as a Master Basket Maker. Renowned for creating the world's largest Potato Basket, he has played a significant role in preserving and promoting Mi'kmaq heritage.
The event will focus on shedding light on pertinent bills in Augusta that affect indigenous communities. Vice Chief Silliboy will discuss the legislative landscape and its impact on the Wabanaki sovereignty. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage in an interactive Q&A session, gaining a deeper understanding of the issues at hand.
This event is free and open to the public, providing a unique opportunity for community members to learn, engage, and support the cause. Register at www.jesuplibrary.org/events/rsilliboy
GET YOUR CLIMATE AMBASSADORSHIP ON!
Join us for the second virtual cohort of the Climate Ambassador’s Program. The program supports community members in becoming effective communicators about climate change and solutions by providing an overview of climate science and impacts, solutions, and, importantly, how to effectively communicate about climate change. The ambassadors program will support residents as they tap into their unique skills and networks to take meaningful climate action and inspire others to join them. This program is for anyone, no prior knowledge or training is required.
Best of all, this program provides a sense of community and collaboration in effectively addressing climate change.
January 24, 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.: Resilience Resource Workshop for local leaders and planners with the Gulf of Maine Research Institute. Read more on our events page.
January 23, 5:30 p.m.: Vulnerabilities & Opportunities, Tremont Responding to Coastal Change at the Bass Harbor Memorial Library or via zoom. Join scientists and experts from Gulf of Maine Research Institute as they share the results of Tremont’s Vulnerability Assessment. The report provides insights into expected sea level rise, coastal flooding, infrastructure risk, ecological shifts, and more. This information will empower the town to proactively plan for coming changes, and community members are a key part of this work. A Climate to Thrive will also share insights into the town’s energy consumption and related strategies for creating cost savings, protecting our coastal resources and vulnerable neighbors, and cultivating future opportunities that will feature in the town’s developing Community Resilience Plan. Visit our events page to register for a zoom option.
January 31, 6:00 - 7:30 p.m.: Town of Mount Desert Climate Action Update & Feedback Session. Northeast Harbor Public Library. Join the Mount Desert Sustainability Committee and A Climate to Thrive for an update on recent climate action progress in Mount Desert, the results of a recently completed greenhouse gas inventory for the town, and plans for next steps. Provide essential feedback to help best align action with community priorities and learn about ways to get involved. Watch our events page for updates on location and zoom option.
Are you or is someone you know a young person interested in digging their hands into community-driven climate solutions through a paid internship this summer? ACTT will once again host part- and full-time internships for young people ages 17 and older. Interns will work closely with ACTT staff on a variety of projects and we seek to align the work with each intern's specific areas of interest. There is also ample opportunity for interns to propose, design, and implement their own projects through the course of their internship.
The number of paid internships available is limited, as we attempt to maintain a high quality experience through mentorship and supervision and as we seek to compensate interns competitively. If you or someone you know is interested in joining our team during the summer of 2024, please reach out to Executive Director Johannah Blackman at johannah@aclimatetothrive.org to begin the application process.
GET YOUR SECOND SUNDAY SUPPER ON!
The Somesville Union Meeting House will have second Sunday community suppers through April. The free event runs from 5 to 6:30 p.m.
GET YOUR ICE QUILTING DERBY ON!
Get Your Book (And Author) On!
VIRTUAL WRITE ON! WRITING GROUP
Want support for your craft? The Write On! writer’s group has been meeting at the Jesup since 2014, and remotely during the pandemic. Each meeting, members may bring in up to 1200 words to read for feedback, and in turn offer feedback to others. Although each member doesn’t get to read work every time, the group shares the time fairly. The group meets on Zoom, and hold in confidence what is shared. This group welcomes adults 18 and up writing in many genres. There’s no homework–the only commitment is two hours on Saturday mornings.
Date and Time
SATURDAYS
9:00 AM to 11:00 AM
Location
Zoom
How to Attend
Call the library, 207-288-4245, for more about us and how to join, or email info@jesuplibrary.org.
STORY TIMES AT THE JESUP!
Baby and Toddler Time
Join Abby for fingerplays, songs, and stories on Mondays! Older siblings are welcome to join in.
10:30 AM 11:15 AM
JESUP MEMORIAL LIBRARY34 MT. DESERT STREET
JESUP EVENTS
For a full list of Jesup Memorial Library events, click through to its calendar here.
DANNY HOLT CONCERT
Pianist Danny Holt takes audiences on a mesmerizing journey through the history of the sonatina, spanning from the 18th to the 21st centuries. Unveiling hidden gems by lesser-known composers, Holt's program sheds light on the diverse evolution of this musical form.
Critically acclaimed as "phenomenal" by the late music critic Alan Rich, Danny Holt stands as one of the "local heroes" of the Los Angeles music scene. Holt's performances span the globe, from renowned concert halls such as Carnegie Hall and Walt Disney Concert Hall to intimate venues like Joe's Pub and art galleries like MASS MoCA. His versatility extends to collaborations with the Los Angeles Philharmonic, Blue Man Group, the Bang on a Can All-Stars, and more.
Holt's passion for lesser-known composers is evident not only in his performances but also in his curation of programs featuring obscure repertoire from the 18th and 19th centuries. When not immersed in cutting-edge contemporary music, Holt brings rarely-performed works and untold stories to audiences, showcasing his commitment to musical diversity.
With an extensive recorded catalog, including the recent solo album "Piano Music of Mike Garson," Holt has left an indelible mark on the classical music landscape. His academic journey includes degrees from the California Institute of the Arts, Hampshire College, Smith College, and Interlochen Arts Academy.
Experience the magic of Danny Holt's sonatina exploration, where past and present converge, promising a captivating journey through music.
This event is free and open to the public. Visit jesuplibrary.org for more info.
GET YOUR ART ON!
OPEN STUDIO – MEMBER MONDAYS
Members can reserve a table in our studio for an hour or the whole session and have access to our non-consumable tools or use some materials from our stock!$10 for reserved space – participant brings supplies. OR $25 for reserved space plus access to consumable materials; felting, glass, paint, printmaking.Participants under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Masking, vaccinated, and social distancing for staff and participant safety.
Date and Time
Mondays
2:30 p.m. – 6 p.m. EDT
Location
ArtWaves, 1345A State Highway 102, Bar Harbor
Fees/Admission
$42.00
Website
https://www.artwavesmdi.org/event
Contact Information
207-266-0010
Send Email
MONDAY & THURSDAY NIGHT FIGURE DRAWING
Please register, space is limited.
Artists will have a few quick warm-up poses then be able to spend time refining a long pose. Registration necessary- ArtWaves maintains distances for safety.The model is the star, no instruction, but plenty of easels, boards, horses, paper, charcoal and fellow friendly artists. Feel free to bring your paints and brushes as well!18 and over, under 18 allowed with parental attendance or prior signature.
Date and Time
Mondays and Thursdays
6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Mondays 6-9 single pose and Thursdays multi poses
Location
ArtWaves Fine Arts Studio
Fees/Admission
$15 for 3-hour session
Members: $25 month fee
Contact Information
office @artwavesmdi.otrg
Send Email
KIDS CRAFTERNOONS
ArtWaves is devoting afternoons of studio (under the big tent) sessions for children to create. Most workshops use unique materials like fiber, ink, stained glass and wax. Weekly themes. Open to kids between 7-11. No skills required.Masks, vax’d (over 5), and distancing for staff and participant safety.
To Register:
Date and Time
Every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday
3 p.m. – 5 p.m.
Location
ArtWaves, 1345A State Highway 102, Bar Harbor
Fees/Admission
$30 materials included or bring some of your own! ($20 for members)
Student membership is $36 a year!
Contact Information office@artwavesmdi.org
Send Email
ARTWAVES CLASSES AND EVENTS
ArtWaves often has classes, a variety every week. For the updated selection, check out its website here.
GET YOUR MOVIE ON!
REEL PIZZA
Reel Pizza is open again! To check out what’s playing go here.
Tickets are on sale now via its website for its opening films starting December 29. Please note that for a while this winter it will be closed on Wednesdays and Thursdays.
CRITERION THEATRE
The theater’s website is here, and click for the latest updates.
GET YOUR FITNESS, DANCE and WELLNESS ON!
YOGA SCHEDULE OF AMAZINGNESS!
THE NEIGHBORHOOD HOUSE!
The Neighborhood House has a slew of classes to help you get your fitness on. Descriptions are at its website.
MDI YMCA!
The MDI YMCA’s program guide is here.
DESTINATION HEALTH!
For a full listing, check out here
DOWNEAST COMMUNITY DANCE
Downeast Community Dance meets every Sunday from 10-11:30 a.m. at the Moore Community Center in Ellsworth (first and third) and ArtWaves in Town Hill (second, fourth and fifth).
These free form dance gatherings are not facilitated, with music provided by volunteer DJs. Move to rhythms in your own way and have fun.
Admission is by donation.
For more information, contact Susan at 288-8103 or cloudnine@gwi.net.
Location
Dance Studio at ArtWaves, 1345A State Highway 102, Bar Harbor
STUDENT MASSAGE CLINIC
At Acadia School of Massage Student Massage Clinic, our students gain hands-on experience while our clients receive relaxation or therapeutic massage and bodywork treatments at discounted rates. Enjoy a soothing massage from one of our gifted student massage therapists. The Student Clinic is open to the public and we highly encourage anyone to try a massage!
Date and Time
Tuesdays and Wednesdays
1:30 PM – 6:30 PM EST
Tuesdays and Wednesdays through the end of April 2023 from 1:30 to 6:15pm.
Location
Hosted by Tree of Life Day Spa,
108 Cottage Street, Bar Harbor
Fees/Admission
$35 for 1 hour massage
Appointments highly recommended
Book online at
http://www.AcadiaSoM.com
Website
http://www.AcadiaSoM.com
Contact Information
Acadia School of Massage
Send Emailhhj
MDI YMCA CLASSSES
For a full listing, check out here.
Adult Ballet Barre Fitness with David Lamon
Date and Time
Thursdays
6:30 PM - 7:30 PM EDT
4 sessions Thursday April 6th to Thursday April 27 6:30pm to 7:30pm
Location
ArtWaves Dance Center 1345A Hwy 102 Town Hill Bar Harbor
Fees/Admission
$50.00 $40.00 ArtWaves Members SPRING SPECIAL: BUY ONE CLASS GET ONE CLASS AT 50% OFF
Website
https://artwavesmdi.org/event-5201808
Contact Information
2072660010
Send Email
GET YOUR MUSIC ON!
THE FINBACK ALEHOUSE
The Finback has entertainment most nights. The schedule is posted every Tuesday.
THE NOR’EASTER
The Nor’Easter has music every Saturday night from 8-10 in the summer and 7-9 in the winter.
ONE OFF PUB
The One Off Pub often has music and is often open until midnight. The location? 119 Main Street.
HAVANA
Every Saturday night at 6:30 p.m, you can come here the maestro Bob Lombardi. Maestro isn’t something we put out there for everyone. Havana is on lower Main Street.
BOOM, POWELL AND TREITLER PERFORM HANDEL!
Members of Baroque Orchestra of Maine, Heidi Powell, baroque violin and Max Treitler, baroque cello, will perform music by Vivaldi, Bach, Biber, Corelli & Handel on period instruments.
Members of Baroque Orchestra of Maine or BOOM, Heidi Powell, baroque violin and Max Treitler, baroque cello, will perform music by Vivaldi, Bach, Biber, Corelli & Handel on period instruments. This concert will take place at the Bar Harbor Congregational Church and is open to the public, suitable for children and adults, the artists will educate the audience about historical performance practice and give a hands on talk about their instruments and playing technique. Tickets are $25 at the door by check or cash for adults, students are free. For more information on the artists or concert visit: baroqueorchestraofmaine.org or call 207-479-2845
Jan 6, 2024 at 4:00PM - 5:30PM
Bar Harbor Congregational Church, 29 Mount Desert Street, Bar Harbor
$25.00
GET YOUR FOOD ON!
OPEN TABLE MDI!
For more information, click here.
COOL THINGS IN OTHER TOWNS
Book Sale at Northeast Harbor Library
Jan 2, 2024 at 3:30PM - 5:00PM
Hook 'n I
Rug Hooking Group at Southwest Harbor Public Library
Jan 4, 2024 at 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Southwest Harbor Public Library
Quebecois music sessionS
Jan 6, 2024 at 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, and multiple dates.
Southwest Harbor Public Library
DOG TRAINING CLASSES!
All sorts of dog training classes are happening in January at the Neighborhood House in Northeast Harbor.
For more information:
https://mdi.coursestorm.com/course/salty-dogs-manners-1-gold-section
Contact Information
Ann at MDI Adult Education or Cole at Salty Dogs Obedience & Adventure
Send Email
TOWN GOVERNMENT MEETINGS
SOUTHWEST HARBOR
Regular Meeting Schedule (meetings held at the Town Office unless otherwise noted). Calendar is here.
TREMONT:
BAR HARBOR:
According to the town’s website, “Meetings that are broadcast live can be viewed at home by watching Cable Access Channel 7 or 1303 (Spectrum Cable only) and online at Town Hall Streams.”
“Things We Do in Bar Harbor” and “On the Agenda” is mostly curated by me looking for things happening in the upcoming week, which takes a lot of time and I truly do not know all that is going on.
If there’s something in Bar Harbor (or MDI) that you’d like me to mention, please let me know, because I’m definitely always missing some events every week.