Spencer Umphrey Crushes 324-Foot Homer in Record-Breaking Season: AYS Little League Phenom Dominates at the Plate and on the Mound
BRIEFS: SHORE PATH REOPENING CELEBRATION IS TOMORROW! MDI STATE CHAMPS, BAR HARBOR PRIDE, STANLEY ELECTRIC, COA GRADUATION, PRODUCE EXCHANGE, TRENTON JUNK MAIL EVENT, AND A LOT MORE
The Bar Harbor Story is generously sponsored by Window Panes Home and Garden.
BAR HARBOR—Yesterday, in a thrilling display of power and precision, Spencer Umphrey, 12, of the AYS Black Little League team sent a fastball soaring 324 feet over the center field fence — a jaw-dropping home run that had fans on their feet and teammates in awe. The massive shot is just the latest highlight in what can only be described as a historic season for the young standout.
Umphrey’s bat has been nothing short of unstoppable. He currently boasts a staggering .765 batting average, an on-base percentage of .805, and an astronomical slugging percentage of 1.523. Every time he steps up to the plate, opposing teams hold their breath.
But Spencer isn't just a force with the bat — he’s also the league's most dominant pitcher. Over 34 innings, he has racked up an astonishing 80 strikeouts. His earned run average sits at a razor-sharp 2.00, and opponents are batting just .199 against him. With numbers like these, it's no surprise he's at the top of every coach’s scouting report.
From towering home runs to lights-out pitching, Umphrey’s season has been one for the record books — and it's far from over. As the playoffs approach, all eyes will be on this young all-star to see what unforgettable moment he delivers next.
SHORE PATH GRAND OPENING CELEBRATION IS TOMORROW!
BAR HARBOR—Thanks to the incredible generosity of our community, we are thrilled to invite everyone who donated to the official grand re-opening of the Bar Harbor Shore Path!
Thursday, June 12
Noon
Grant Park
Join us as we celebrate the restoration of this beloved coastal path — a place where generations have walked, reflected, and taken in the beauty of Frenchman Bay. This project would not have been possible without you, and we can’t wait to honor the spirit of community that made it happen.
Hosted by the Bar Harbor Village Improvement Association, this event marks not just the reopening of a path, but the continuation of a legacy.
Come walk with us. You helped rebuild this, and now it’s time to celebrate.
STATE CHAMPIONS!
BAR HARBOR—It was soggy. It was wet. It was a state championship and once again, MDI High School’s track team made its mark. Amelia VanDongen came away with the Class B state crown for the 400 meter dash. Joey Bennet took the title for the discus. The 4x400 meter relay team of Ella O’Connell, Marlee Catanese, Seneca Haney and VanDongen rushed to a state championship win. Haney was also runner-up in both the 200-meter dash and the pole vault. Patrick Saltysiak came in second in the pole vault, too.
The rescheduled event called for community volunteers to help man the snack shack. The sports boosters’ snack shack sales were donated to the Hancock County SPCA and Maine Community Foundation.
Junk Mail Reduction Workshop in Trenton, June 12, 7 p.m.
TRENTON—The Trenton Solid Waste Committee is offering a junk mail reduction workshop on Thurs. June 12 at 7 p.m. at the Trenton town office. It’s free. We’ll be setting folks up with Catalog Choice.org to reduce junk mail. We’ll also discuss ways to reduce political and other junk mail, and explain why junk mail reduction saves our town and taxpayers money. Bring a smartphone, tablet or laptop, and a catalog you’d like to unsubscribe from. It will probably be about 45 minutes long.
FMI: Contact Christina Heiniger at 207-460–1243 or TrentonSWC@yahoo.com any questions or to sign up so we have a sense of how many will be attending.
SELF-SERVE COMPOST
BAR HARBOR—Due to staff-shortages, effective immediately, the compost pile at the Public Works Facility in Hulls Cove (off Crooked Road) is SELF-SERVE ONLY, and material IS available.
FIRE HYDRANT REPAIR
The Town of Bar Harbor’s contractor will be repairing the fire hydrant on Albert Meadow this Tuesday.
BRIEF: CROMWELL BROOK BRIDGE PROJECT
BAR HARBOR—The new temporary bridge for the Cromwell Brook bridge replacement project is on site. Installation of the new temporary bridge is slated to begin this week according to a construction superintendent for T-Buck Construction of Turner who was on site Monday.
The new temporary bridge will curve around the first temporary bridge on the east side and will follow the course of the wooden stakes in the pictures below.
Removal of the first temporary bridge, demolition of the original old bridge which is under the first temporary bridge, and the building of the new permanent bridge will begin sometime after July 4, once the new temporary bridge is in place.
There are no planned traffic disruptions for the transition from the old temporary bridge to the new tempoary bridge.
Due in part to weather conditions and a mandatory 120-day winter shutdown, the new bridge will not be completed until the fall of 2026.
COA GRADUATES!
Embrace a life of purpose, graduates told
BAR HARBOR — A call to embrace a life of purpose and contribute to something greater than oneself was at the heart of former Syrian political prisoner Omar Alshogre’s message to the College of the Atlantic Class of 2025 during his keynote address at the school’s 52nd commencement on Saturday, June 7.
Before approximately 700 family members, alumni, students, staff, faculty, trustees, and friends in a large tent on COA’s North Lawn, Alshogre recounted his time in prison, where he and others were tortured because of their beliefs, as one where he learned the power of connection and the value of adversity. Alshogre, who also received an honorary Master of Philosophy in human ecology at the ceremony, urged graduates to use their power to create a more just world.
“The lesson I learned in that cell is that the power of human connection is one that can reshape this broken world. Just as a group of prisoners transformed despair into a university of whispers, you have the power to transform the challenges around you into opportunities for connection, growth, and change,” he said. “True meaning comes from contributing to something greater than yourself. You and I are here to serve a purpose — to build a world we can be proud to call ours.”
A total of 92 graduates processed into the ceremony, led by the Anah Highlanders bagpipers and 2025 Commencement Grand Marshal Bonnie Tai, who is retiring after 25 years teaching at the college. The crowd enjoyed welcome speeches from Tai, COA Board Chair Beth Gardiner, Kaia Douglas ’25, and COA President Sylvia Torti.
“In this moment, as we celebrate the achievements of this graduating class, we also celebrate the global fabric of our community,” Torti said. “Let us take this opportunity to remember that learning knows no borders, and that we must continue to work for a world where diversity is not just respected, but cherished, and where the presence of many cultures is not seen as a challenge to unity, but as its deepest strength.”
The event featured student perspectives from Alexandra Löfgren ’25, Chloe Meyer ’25, and Hanako Moulton ’25. Raheem Khadour ’25 introduced Alshogre.
“At the end of the ceremony, diplomas in hand, we’ll walk away from this campus as scientists, artists, writers, thinkers, chefs, journalists, DJs, entrepreneurs and whatever else we may be,” Moulton said. “But those labels won’t really matter, because we’ll be doing our respective work in the service of each other — to take care of and advocate for our fellow living beings, now and for the generations ahead of us.”
A celebration in and around Thomas S. Gates, Jr. Community Center followed the ceremony.
College of the Atlantic was founded in 1969 on the premise that education should go beyond understanding the world as it is to enabling students to actively shape its future. A leader in experiential education and environmental stewardship, COA has pioneered a distinctive interdisciplinary approach to learning — human ecology — that develops the kinds of creative thinkers and doers needed by all sectors of society in addressing the compelling and growing needs of our world. For more information, visit coa.edu.
All above COA photos courtesy of COA
BRIEF: THE BIG GOODBYE
BAR HARBOR—Staff waved goodbye to students as part of the end of the year tradition at Bar Harbor’s Conner’s Emerson. The video below is by Taylor Hamor, and first appeared on Chris Popper’s and WDEA social media.
BRIEF: BAR HARBOR PRIDE FESTIVAL
MOUNT DESERT ISLAND—The Bar Harbor Pride Festival occurred this past weekend with events throughout the island as well as a march and rally in Bar Harbor on Saturday.
PRODUCE EXCHANGE
SOUTHWEST HARBOR HISTORICAL SOCIETY OPENING THIS WEDNESDAY!
SOUTHWEST HARBOR— The Southwest Harbor Historical Society is opening this Wednesday, June 11 and Saturday, June 14 from 1-3 p.m. each day.
For the rest of June the society is open on June 18 and June 25, from 1-3 p.m. each day.
There will be a program on the Historic Cemeteries of Southwest Harbor.
Come learn about our Revolution and Civil War Veterans buried in one of these 11 cemeteries. There will be four presenters talking about the families of Southwest Harbor. Highlights of these families are from the Union, Newman, Dollliver, Old Burial Ground, Gilley, Lurvey, and Evergreen.
This program is on Saturday June 21, starting at 4 p.m. The society then will be hosting the Pemetic Alumni group on June 28 from 11-4 p.m.
All programs will be held in the museum at Manset Meetinghouse. Learn more here.
Stanley Electric Enters a New Era with Shared Vision for Growth
SOUTHWEST HARBOR—After more than 50 years of delivering dependable, high-quality electrical services across Mount Desert Island and Downeast Maine, Stanley Electric (formerly Stephen Stanley Electrical Contractors Inc.) is proud to announce an exciting evolution in its leadership.
Jason Bird has joined the company in a key leadership role, bringing fresh perspective and a strong commitment to growth and innovation. This transition represents a thoughtful and collaborative step forward, as the business looks to build on its legacy while exploring new opportunities to serve the community.
Stephen Stanley, the company’s founder, along with the entire trusted team, will remain actively involved—ensuring the same familiar faces, customer-first approach, and reliable service that the community has counted on for decades.
“We’ve built something special here, and I’m excited to see Jason help carry that forward,” said Stephen Stanley. “This change is about strengthening our future, while holding fast to the values our customers know and trust.”
The company remains deeply committed to serving residential, commercial, and municipal clients with the highest standards of workmanship. With new energy and a shared vision, Stanley Electric looks forward to this next chapter and continued service to the region.
HANCOCK COUNTY STUDENTS TO PERFORM SHAKESPEARE THROUGH COMMUNITY COLLABORATION
BAR HARBOR—The Middle School Shakespeare Project, a program in its third year supporting teamwork and community engagement for young people, will present ‘Romeo and Juliet’ at the Jesup Library on Friday, June 13 at 6:30 p.m. The project is run by Healthy Acadia in collaboration with the Conners Emerson School, the Jesup, and Barn Arts and features fifteen different students from four local schools in grades 4-8.
Andrew Simon, who works with Healthy Acadia on a variety of youth programs in Hancock and Washington County, has been leading the project since its inception in 2022.
“This is a really exciting way to build relationships and support resilience in our community”, said Simon. “The project connects students with a shared interest so that they can create something new together—and the collaboration between local organizations shows these young people that they matter to this community.”
The team of students have been meeting after-school for a short rehearsal period to get to know the play and one another. They’re working on a cut version of the script that will run about 35 minutes.
“The Jesup is an ideal venue for this production and not just because of the balcony,” said Simon. “A performance that features a mixed group of local children in a shared community space sends an important message. It lets these students know that their voices and their ideas have value and they deserve to be featured and celebrated.”
About Healthy Acadia:
Healthy Acadia is a community health organization dedicated to building vibrant communities and making it easier for all people to lead healthier lives. Through partnerships, education, and initiatives, Healthy Acadia addresses a wide range of health priorities across Hancock and Washington counties in Maine. To learn more visit https://healthyacadia.org.
Wild Gardens of Acadia Plant Sale, Sat., June 14
BAR HARBOR—The Wild Gardens of Acadia volunteers will hold a plant sale on Saturday, June 14th from 9 a.m. to noon at St. Saviour's Episcopal Church, 41 Mount Desert Street in Bar Harbor. The sale will feature perennials, annuals, native plants, veggie seedlings, and more. Proceeds fund the maintenance and operations of the Wild Gardens at Sieur de Monts in Acadia National Park.
More information at: https://friendsofacadia.org/get-involved/events/wild-gardens-acadia-plant-sale/
Free Presentation on Net Zero Energy Homes
NORTHEAST HARBOR—On Wednesday, June 18 at 5:30 p.m. the Northeast Harbor Library will host a free presentation with Caroline Pryor, president and founder of the employee-owned cooperative Zero Energy Homes.
The company builds affordable homes that generate as much power as they use and are constructed with more than 80% Maine-sourced materials. Pryor will discuss sustainable housing models, the practicality of net zero construction, and provide resources for homeowners and builders.
Register at nehlibrary.org/events or by calling 207-276-3333.
ACADIA REPERTORY THEATRE ANNOUNCES 52ND SUMMER SEASON!
MOUNT DESERT—In a world in constant churn around us, there is something comforting about sitting in an old theatre, seemingly outside of time, watching a play in a quiet retreat from the swirling storms outside. The Acadia Rep, at age 52, still looks, feels, and, yes, smells more or less as it did in 1973. These hundred-year-old cedar walls have borne witness now to well over 250 productions, hundreds of talented actors and technicians, and something like 2,000,000 audience members. That enviable legacy stands out even more in a time of great disruption for theatre companies across the country; like a church, the Rep is still here, and still how you remember us when your grandmother brought you, decades ago.
But the plays themselves are different every year, and this season we’ve chosen four of them featuring strong women in the lead roles.
Now your grandmother would want you to bring her here for the excellent shows we have on offer!
Our 2025 Summer Season opens Tuesday June 24 with The Half-Life of Marie Curie by Lauren Gunderson, who was the most-produced playwright in the country in three recent years. Known for writing plays that feature smart, strong women, Gunderson here explores the early 20th century friendship between Marie Curie and the British scientist Hertha Ayrton, both of them mothers, widows and fearless champions of scientific inquiry with a lot to say! This play for our time runs for two weeks, and closes July 6th.
Next up is Neil LaBute’s The Shape Of Things. In this comedy of two couples’ relationships, LaBute creates a modern-day Pygmalion in reverse, in which an art student molds her nerdy boyfriend into something else. This darkly funny play explores how far someone is willing to go and how much they’ll change for who (or what) they love, and shows that in life, like in art, appearances can be deceiving! The Shape of Things contains adult language, and runs July 8 through 20.
Then we have the delightful Theatre People, Or The Angel Next Door by Paul Slade Smith, running from July 22 through August 10. In this rollicking comedy, young Oliver Adams is on the brink of a major success. His novel The Angel Next Door is set to be published, and famed Broadway playwrights (and married couple) Charlotte and Arthur Sanders have already adapted his book for what is sure to be a huge stage hit. And who do they have their eye on as the leading lady? Margot Bell, of course, the very person Oliver adores and about whom he has written his novel (though he hasn’t told her yet). When they all converge for a weekend in Newport, Rhode Island, the thin walls of the well-appointed mansion reveal that the angel may not be angelic, and only the power of theatre can save the play, Oliver’s novel, and perhaps most importantly, his heart.
And we end the season with the return of Agatha Christie’s Spider’s Web. Dame Agatha’s second-longest running play (after The Mousetrap), this conscious parody of her own detective thrillers features Clarissa, wife of a diplomat, who is adept at spinning tales of adventure, but when a murder takes place in her drawing room, she finds live drama much harder to cope with! Christie delivers suspense and laughter in equal parts in an intricate plot of murder, police, invisible ink, hidden doorways and secret drawers. Spider’s Web runs August 12 through 31 .
So bring your grandmother and your whole family to the Acadia Repertory Theatre, in a DownEast tradition that, with luck and love, will still be here in another 52 years!
Please note: all Tuesday-Saturday performances are at 8:00 PM and Sundays are at 2:00 PM. You can order tickets online at https://acadiarep.com/ or by calling 207-244-7260 on Tuesdays-Sundays between 12:00PM-5:00PM.
National Speaker Fletcher Cleaves to Headline “Pints for a Purpose” on June 19 at Terramor Outdoor Resort
BAR HARBOR—Friends of Acadia and Terramor Outdoor Resort are thrilled to welcome nationally recognized speaker and accessibility advocate Fletcher Cleaves to the “Pints for a Purpose” series on Thursday, June 19 at 5 p.m. at the Terramor Lodge.
Cleaves, a powerful voice for accessibility in the travel industry and a leading national advocate for safe driving, will share his remarkable journey and insights on building a more inclusive world. Once a promising college football player, Cleaves’ life changed in 2009 when a distracted driver caused a crash that left him paralyzed from the chest down. Since then, he has transformed personal tragedy into a mission of purpose—educating audiences across the country about the dangers of distracted driving and the importance of accessibility.
Known as “The Wheelchair Nomad,” Cleaves is also an avid traveler who uses his global adventures to spotlight accessibility challenges and inspire change. His story has been featured on ESPN’s College GameDay, SportsCenter, Outside the Lines, and at the National Transportation Safety Board in Washington, D.C. He has delivered over 700 talks at schools, universities, and organizations nationwide.
Pints for a Purpose is a free, weekly speaker series that invites the community to gather around the fireplace, enjoy a pint, and engage in meaningful conversations with thought leaders and changemakers. As always, $1 from every pint purchased supports Friends of Acadia’s conservation efforts.
“Fletcher’s message is one of resilience, empowerment, and action,” said Lisa Horsch Clark, Vice President of Development at Friends of Acadia. “We’re honored to host him and look forward to an evening of inspiration and community. Prepare to be dazzled.”
The event is free, open to the public, and all are welcome.
Event Details
What: Pints for a Purpose featuring Fletcher Cleaves
When: Thursday, June 19, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. Where: Terramor Outdoor Resort, Bar Harbor, ME Cost: Free and open to the public
Hosted by: Friends of Acadia & Terramor Outdoor Resort
For more information about Fletcher Cleaves, visit https://www.fletchercleaves.com/, https://www.instagram.com/rollinonfaith/ (Instagram) and Fletcher’s Drive (video).
For more information about Friends of Acadia, visit friendsofacadia.org
For more information about Pints for a Purpose, visit https://friendsofacadia.org/get- involved/events/pints-for-a-purpose/
JAX WELCOMES SUMMER STUDENTS
TWO MR. DREW PRESENTATIONS!
BAR HARBOR—Due to popular demand, we will be hosting two Mr. Drew presentations on June 14. The first one will be at 10:30 a.m. and the second one will be at 2 p.m. It will be the same presentation with the same animals.
If you plan to attend at 10:30 a.m. (Summer Reading Kickoff: Mr. Drew and His Animals, Too!) OR at 2 p.m. (Afternoon Presentation: Mr. Drew and His Animals, Too!) please change your status from “interested” to “going” to give us a better idea of how many people to expect.
We are not requiring registration, but we encourage people to show up early to get a seat. Space is limited. Also, please remember to leave enough time for summer traffic and to find a place to park.
If the weather is nice, we’ll host the event outside. There will be some shade, but we can’t guarantee it, so please be prepared with sunscreen, a hat and water bottles in case it’s a hot day.
Considering how many animals will be at this event, we ask that you not bring your pets.
Thank you! If you have any questions, please contact Abby (amorrow@jesuplibrary.org)
ARTWAVES GRANT!
TOWN HILL—ArtWaves has received a $10,000 grant from the Community Building Fund of the Maine Community Foundation (MaineCF). We are incredibly grateful for MaineCF's generous support, which enables us to continue our mission of making creativity accessible to all on Mount Desert Island. This investment from MaineCF is a testament to their belief in our work and reinforces the trust our members and community place in us.
With this grant, ArtWaves will continue to offer dynamic workshops, classes, and exhibitions, fostering self-expression, collaboration, and lifelong engagement in the arts for individuals of all ages and skill levels. We thank the Maine Community Foundation for their vital partnership in strengthening our community through the power of art.
We're excited to announce the Acadia Dance Festival is returning to ArtWaves this summer, continuing our fantastic partnership! From July 28th to August 2nd, we'll be hosting their week-long Summer Intensive for dancers aged 14-22. This program is an incredible opportunity for young dancers to push their skills, explore their creativity, and get a taste of what it's like in a professional dance environment. Dancers will learn from top-notch instructors, covering various styles and important topics to help them grow.
We're so excited to welcome these talented dancers and the Acadia Dance Festival back to ArtWaves!
MDI BIO LAB LECTURE: Worming Our Way Toward a Better Understanding of Neurodegenerative Disease
Monday, June 23, 2025 at 5 p.m.
Hybrid event — join us in Maren Auditorium (#4 on map) or via Zoom.
BAR HARBOR—What drives neurodegenerative disease? MDI Biological Laboratory Assistant Professor Emily Spaulding, Ph.D., The George Wojtech Endowed Chair in Neurobiology, will discuss how her lab leverages the advantages of a transparent roundworm to better understand the contribution of disrupted cell organization in neurodegeneration.
All Aboard for a Roaring Good Time on the "Keeping History on Track: Prohibition Era" family-friendly train ride, on Downeast Scenic Railroad, rain or shine.
ELLSWORTH—Take a step back into the Roaring Twenties aboard a vintage, family-friendly train ride hosted rain or shine by Downeast Scenic Railroad in partnership with the Ellsworth Historical Society.
Participants will park and board at Washington Junction (turn at Railroad Siding Road) and travel round- trip to Ellsworth Falls while sipping prohibition-era mocktails, hearing about historic railroads, enjoying live music by Mike & Susie Fay, and uncovering hidden surprises along the route.
Attendees are encouraged to wear flapper-era dresses, vests, bow ties and caps and other vintage attire. Tickets are $30 (infants riding in laps are free) Note: Seating is limited. Reserve early—all proceeds support the Ellsworth Historical Society’s preservation work. For tickets and details, visit Downeast cenic Railroad’s “Special Trains” page. (https://downeastscenicrail.org/)
Connecting Prohibition History to Our Local History - Maine led the nation’s temperance movement, passing the first statewide prohibition in 1851. Although repealed in 1858, strict liquor controls persisted, culminating in nationwide prohibition from 1920 to 1933. Enforcement was uneven—bootlegging and resistance were common—until the state repealed its dry laws in 1934. The upcoming Prohibition-era train ride event will both celebrate Ellsworth’s railroad heritage and commemorate how communities functioned and resisted during those alcohol-restricted years.
To enrich this history-based fundraising experience, the Ellsworth Historical Society has a select group of local sponsors and partners whose businesses or buildings endured through Prohibition. These sponsors represent the historic built environment that has endured through decades of change, including the dry years of the 1920s and early 1930s. By highlighting these sites, EHS is drawing a direct line between the Ellsworth of today and the vibrant, complex community that navigated prohibition nearly a century ago.
Event sponsors include: Clocks by Christopher, Design Group Collaborative Architects, H.W.Dunn & Son, Inc., Zeppa’s New York Pizza, and Downeast Scenic Railroad. Partners include the Ellsworth American, and, Fogtown Brewing Company and Black Moon Public House. To keep the flapper spirit alive after the ride, guests are invited to stay in costume and continue the afternoon’s festivities at the “joint” of our speakeasy partners. Mumble your password to the bartender at Fogtown Brewing Company to receive a discount on drinks and enjoy period music in their “speakeasy” beer garden. (Based on authentic 1920s speakeasy passwords drawn from period slang, at Fogtown ask for “coffin varnish”, “horse liniment”, or say “Sugar Moon Tonight”).
Or, take a special ticket to Black Moon Public House, to gain access to their own prohibition-inspired lounge and receive reduced pricing on select beverages. Both stops after the train event offer a nod to the 1920s to unwind, mingle, and celebrate Ellsworth’s spirited past.
Join us to support Ellsworth’s vibrant heritage—through preservation, community, and celebration. The Roaring Twenties train ride will spotlight the intertwined stories of rail travel, prohibition-era social dynamics, and local businesses that have evolved across centuries. With your ticket purchase, you help EHS maintain our historic infrastructure, restore iconic buildings, and continue sharing these remarkable narratives.
Sunday, June 22, 2025 1:00–3:00 PM
Tix: downeastscenicrail.org – “Special Trains” link Vintage attire encouraged—flappers, fedoras & flair!
$30 per ticket | All proceeds benefit the Ellsworth Historical Society Limited seats—reserve early
STATE PRESS RELEASES:
New initiative through the Maine Technology Institute seeks proposals for a state-of-the-art laboratory facility in Maine to support emerging companies in life sciences.
AUGUSTA—Governor Janet Mills today announced the Maine Life Sciences Incubator, a $2.7 million grant program by the Maine Technology Institute (MTI) to establish a state-of-the-art laboratory in Maine to support emerging companies in the burgeoning life sciences industry.
Maine's life sciences sector is growing steadily, fueled by nearly 600 organizations spanning biotechnology, diagnostics and medical devices, marine and aquaculture science, health care innovation, and fields such as artificial intelligence (AI), data science, and bioinformatics.
The new facility sought under the Maine Life Sciences Incubator Program would launch and scale the next generation of life sciences startups by bringing together expert science mentors, workforce development programs, and investors to support entrepreneurs in efficiently growing their companies in Maine.
"Maine's vibrant and growing life sciences sector supports almost 10,000 jobs and generates $2.3 billion for Maine's economy," said Governor Mills. "By supporting the establishment of a state-of-the art life sciences incubator, we can help accelerate the creation and growth of biotechnology startups here in Maine."
The Maine Life Sciences Incubator Program is a partnership between MTI and the Maine Department of Economic and Community Development and utilizes Federal funding through Governor's Maine Jobs & Recovery Plan.
Many life sciences companies reach a point of development where they need access to laboratory facilities specially designed for experiments that involve liquids, chemicals, and biological samples to continue their progress, which does not yet exist in Maine. The incubator program intends to close that gap, furthering Maine's momentum in biotech.
"We are excited to collaborate with MTI on this life sciences incubator project," said Commissioner Mike Duguay of the Maine Department of Economic & Community Development. "It will help fill an existing gap in life sciences infrastructure in Maine in a sector with well-paying jobs that is growing faster than the New England average."
"MTI is hopeful that this funding solicitation will generate a number of quality proposals," said Brian Whitney, MTI President. "We have conducted meaningful outreach in Maine and across the nation to promote the funding program and look forward to cutting the ribbon on the new facility before the end of 2026."
MTI is now seeking proposals from qualified and experienced organizations with proven track records in developing and operating world-class biotechnology and life sciences incubators and shared laboratory facilities.
The deadline to apply is July 1, 2025. More information, including the full funding solicitation and results of a survey of business needs, can be found on MTI's website.
In addition to funding through the Jobs Plan, Governor Mills has also proposed a $3 million investment through her biennial budget to further facilitate and expedite the growth of the life sciences sector in Maine.
The Maine Jobs & Recovery Plan is Governor Mills' plan, approved by the Legislature, to invest nearly $1 billion in Federal funds. For more about the Maine Jobs & Recovery Plan, please visit maine.gov/jobsplan.
Maine Paid Family & Medical Leave Contracts with Aflac to Administer Claims
The company was chosen through a competitive RFP process.
AUGUSTA—The Maine Department of Labor has announced that after a competitive RFP process, it has contracted with Aflac to administer claims of the new Maine Paid Family & Medical Leave program.
“I’m excited to start this partnership to provide efficient benefit administration with exceptional customer service for the people of Maine,” said Luke Monahan, Director of the Maine Paid Family & Medical Leave program. “Aflac’s experience in running the benefit administration of the Connecticut Paid Leave program, as well as their depth of experience and expertise in disability and leave management in the private sector, will be an asset to Maine’s program.”
“We are honored that Aflac has been selected to serve as the administrator of the Maine Paid Family and Medical Leave program,” said Scott Beeman, Aflac Senior Vice President of National Accounts. “We are proud of the service and care we provide to our customers and look forward to supporting Maine employers and their workers, as they need time away from work under this new program, for an eligible leave reason.”
One of the reasons Aflac was selected was because of its impressive track record as the administrator of Connecticut Paid Leave claims. Connecticut’s 2024 annual report showed that:
99% of new claims’ eligibility decisions were made within 5 days.
More than 97% of the time, a customer service question or issue was resolved in a single phone call.
Beginning May 1, 2026, eligible Maine workers in the private and public sector will have up to 12 weeks of paid time off available to care for a family member with a serious health condition, to bond with a child after birth, fostering or adoption, to care for their own medical needs, to deal with the transition of a family member’s impending military deployment or to stay safe after abuse or violence.
Updates on the Maine Paid Family and Medical Leave program are posted here: www.maine.gov/paidleave.
Interested parties can also sign up for an email list on the website.
Follow PFML on Instagram.
SENATOR COLLINS’ PRESS RELEASE
Senators Collins, Durbin Introduce Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation to Help Runaway and Homeless Youth
Legislation updates and expands critical services supporting at-risk youth
WASHINGTON, DC—Today, U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Dick Durbin (D-IL), introduced the Runaway and Homeless Youth and Trafficking Prevention Act of 2025. This bipartisan legislation would reauthorize key federal grant programs to provide community-based programs with funding to help thousands of homeless young people nationwide. Companion legislation was introduced in the House by Representatives Don Bacon (R-NE-2), Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR-1), and Morgan McGarvey (D-KY-3).
“Having a caring and safe place to sleep, eat, grow, and study is crucial for any young person’s development,” said Senator Collins. “Our bipartisan legislation would support young people who run away, are forced out of their homes, or are disconnected from their families, by extending basic social services to these most vulnerable youth in our communities.”
“Every child deserves a safe home, but far too many children are experiencing homelessness, are being forced out of their homes, or are escaping a dangerous environment,” said Senator Durbin. “The Runaway and Homeless Youth and Trafficking Prevention Act, which funds key federal programs that address housing insecurity, will help children find a safe, comfortable home when they need it most.”
"As the number of homeless and runaway youth increases, we must increase our federal efforts to assist and protect these youth who are particularly susceptible to trafficking,” said Representative Bacon. “This bill provides agencies with the means to support youth who are in vulnerable positions and gives them the resources to address these problems.”
“As policymakers, we can expand opportunities for youth who don’t have a safe place to call home and put them on the path to stability,” said Representative Bonamici. “The bipartisan update to the Runaway and Homeless Youth Act strengthens services and programs for youth experiencing homelessness and victims of trafficking. I thank my cosponsors and hope we can pass this bill soon and create a better future for these youth.”
“No kid should ever be homeless in America, yet over 2 million kids experience homelessness each year. It's a national disgrace," said Representative McGarvey. "I am proud to cosponsor this bipartisan legislation to provide the resources young people need to find stable housing, get back on their feet, and build a prosperous future."
Senators Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Dan Sullivan (R-AK), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), and Peter Welch (D-VT) also joined as original cosponsors of the legislation.
The landmark Runaway and Homeless Youth Act was first passed by Congress in 1974, providing nationwide support to address youth and young adult homelessness. This reauthorization would expand protections to youths who are particularly vulnerable to human trafficking and would authorize funding for local programs to help provide transitional housing, street outreach, and crisis intervention programs to address the needs of homeless and runaway youth.
Specifically, the Runaway and Homeless Youth and Trafficking Prevention Act of 2025 would:
Reauthorize, modernize, and increase authorization levels for programs under the Runaway and Homeless Youth Act;
Create a new Prevention Services Program that would make additional resources available to organizations providing counseling, mediation, and other services aimed at preventing youth from running away or becoming homeless;
Increase annual competitive grants for rural youth demographics from $100,000 to $200,000;
Require the Department of Health and Human Services to develop a national estimate of the prevalence of homeless youth every three years; and
Increase the allowable length of stay in the Basic Center Program from 21 days to 30 days.
“Preble Street has been serving more youth experiencing homelessness than ever. These young people have been through traumatic events and are the victims of a wide variety circumstances outside of their control. To break the devastating cycle of youth homelessness, our responsibility - as an agency, as a state, and as a nation – is to ensure that there is an integrated system of care and safety for these young people. The Runaway and Homeless Youth and Trafficking Prevention Act of 2025 provides critical support for the services and resources that will help us to end youth homelessness. As a strong advocate for Maine’s vulnerable youth, Senator Collins’ understands that by investing in solutions, we can ensure a safe, stable, and independent future for all of our young people,” said Mark R. Swann, Executive Director, Preble Street in Portland, Maine.
“RHYA programs prevent trafficking, identify survivors, and provide services to runaway, homeless, and disconnected youth. Through the excellent work of local street outreach, shelter, transitional living programs, and maternity group homes, these vital programs help homeless youth and parents access housing, education, employment, personal savings, and family reconnection services. The Runaway and Homeless Youth and Trafficking Prevention Act provides critical infrastructure for our nation’s most vulnerable children and youth who struggle to survive from day to day avoiding the predation of human traffickers, and criminal gangs. Reauthorization of the Runaway and Homeless Youth Trafficking Prevention Act will ensure that a bulwark continues to stand between these children and the cold hard realities of the streets,” said Chris Bicknell, Executive Director, New Beginnings in Lewiston, Maine.
“We applaud our congressional champions for reintroducing the Runaway and Homeless Youth and Trafficking Prevention Act. Young people across the country continue to face limited access to safe housing, education, and living-wage employment. This critical legislation strengthens and expands the Runaway and Homeless Youth Act program to meet the urgent needs of today’s youth, while continuing its powerful legacy. It also reflects what we know to be true: ending youth homelessness is a key strategy to preventing human trafficking. Every young person deserves safety, stability, and the opportunity to thrive—and this bill brings us one step closer to that vision,” said Darla Bardine, Executive Director, National Network for Youth.
“Senator Susan Collins has long been a champion for young people experiencing homelessness. We applaud her leadership in introducing the Runaway and Homeless Youth and Trafficking Prevention Act and in establishing the HUD Homeless Youth Demonstration Projects, two critical efforts that strengthen the systems meant to protect and uplift opportunity youth. For five decades, Sasha Bruce Youthwork has been on the front lines serving young people and families in crisis, and we are proud to honor Senator Collins at our Colors of Resilience celebration for her unwavering dedication to this work,” said Deborah Shore, Founder & Executive Director, Sasha Bruce Youthwork.
A complete list of organizations endorsing the bill can be read here.
The complete text of the bill can be read here.
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