THINGS TO DO ON MDI
Events this week and in the near future.
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.
To see town and school meetings, click here.
To read our past archive of stories, click here.
THIS WEEK:
MONDAY, MAY 13
RESILIENCE DIALOGUE!
What does long-term resilience building look like on Mount Desert Island? How far does a community extend? How are we thinking of resilience broadly? The event offers a space for exploring these questions and collectively envisioning the long-term resilience of MDI with metaphors from natural systems like lichens and mycelium facilitating our conversation. This interactive gathering will foster discussions and idea generation aimed at fostering collaborative long-term resilience in MDI. We'll explore strategies for enhancing resilience in our food, social and economic systems, and envision collaborations within MDI and beyond its borders.
This event will take place on Monday, May 13 from 5:00 - 6:30 p.m. at Open Table MDI.
Get Your Housing Amendments Knowledge On!
TUESDAY, MAY 14
EVENTS VIA THE BAR HARBOR CHAMBER
WEDNESDAY, MAY 15
NARCAN TRAINING AND STOP THE BLEED TRAINING!
ATHLETIC FACILITIES PLANNING MEETING!
MDI Athletic Department is looking to upgrade the Athletic Facilities on the stadium & baseball fields. The track is due for a significant renovation within the next two years, and the baseball field needs to be relocated from its current position to another location in the same area due to safety concerns.
If there were a time to add turf fields, different colors to the track, lights, etc., this would be the time to start. Other items could also be added, and if you would like to be involved in the planning, there will be a meeting on Wednesday, May 15, in the library beginning at 6:30 for anyone interested.
GET YOUR BAR HARBOR CANDIDATE FORUMS ON!
Learn About Trail Work at Great Meadow
This season will be a busy time for trail maintenance, construction, and reroutes at the Great Meadow Loop and Village Connector Trail as Friends of Acadia and Acadia National Park continue partnership efforts to enhance recreational access and improve safety on the trails.
Join Friends of Acadia and Acadia National Park for a virtual presentation via Zoom Wednesday, May 15 from 5-6:30 p.m.
The presentation will focus on the future of the Great Meadow Loop, and how the trail work taking place this season fits into the larger plan to improve the functionality of the Great Meadow Wetland. A Q&A session will follow the presentation.
Pre-registration is required by May 13, so we know how many to expect and can email the Zoom link in advance of the meeting.
EVENTS VIA THE BAR HARBOR CHAMBER
Shinrin Yoku (Forest Bathing) in Surry
Shinrin Yoku (Forest Bathing) in Surry
Acadia's Great Meadow Loop & Village Connector Trails Update
THURSDAY, MAY 16
Thanks to current state and federal incentives, solar has never been more affordable or accessible for homeowners. The increasing cost of electricity further incentivizes everyday homeowners to invest in small rooftop arrays. As a result, solar adoption across Maine is increasing rapidly; however, there are many rooftop solar projects stalled across Versant Power territory because of our utility’s behavior.
During the event, Beth Woolfolk, ACTT’s Manager of Renewable Energy Planning and Policy, will break down the interconnection process, the current barriers homeowners experience, and how other utilities and states address the same issues. This event is designed to empower homeowners by outlining what they can do now to advocate for their projects, and how to promote the necessary changes that need to occur at the State Legislature and Public Utilities Commission.
This event is designed for anyone interested in the topic, regardless of level of expertise and knowledge related to energy. An in-person event will take place on Thursday, May 16, at 6:00 p.m. at the Jesup Memorial Library. A virtual event will take place on Wednesday, May 22nd at 6:00 p.m. for those unable to attend the in-person event on May 16th. Register for the virtual event on May 22 via this link.
EVENTS VIA THE BAR HARBOR CHAMBER
FRIDAY, MAY 17
GET YOUR THEATER ON!
There’s a cool voice file right here that the MDI HS students created.
Saturday, May 18
MDI Walkers Walk Again!
Global 6K for Water
On Saturday, May 18, 2024, the MDI Walkers, organized by the Bar Harbor Congregational Church, UCC will walk again with thousands of others throughout the world to support World Vision’s annual Global 6K for Water, Last year 2100 people around the world participated in this annual event. Through their efforts 8,300 more people in the world will be equipped with clean water.
Once again, people will be walking, running or rolling 6 kilometers from their home or neighborhoods. The MDI Walkers hope to raise $6000 this year, which would provide 120 people with clean water and hygiene for those in the developing world who are vulnerable.
Participation is easy! To learn more or sponsor a team member, visit
https://global6k.worldvision.org
and search for the MDI Walkers Team. If you register as a member of the MDI Walker’s Team, your $50 registration fee will also provide life-changing clean water and hygiene to one adult or child. All MDI Walkers will receive a participant’s packet which includes a t-shirt, a finisher’s medal and a race bib with a photo of the child that you’ll be walking, running or rolling for that day.
The MDI Walkers will begin their walking route from the Bar Harbor Congregational Church UCC parking area at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 18. For additional information contact Debby Hammond at debbyhammond@hotmail.com or Marti Torbeck mmtreehouse4@gmail.com.
EVENTS VIA BAR HARBOR CHAMBER
PLAYING WITH NATURE: DIGITAL ART FROM FOUND OBJECTS
Love beach combing? Come explore the shore below the Historical Society and learn about the intertidal zone while making artwork using the shells, driftwood, sea glass, and beachstones you find.
Whether you prefer elegant or whimsical designs, you can make images using only your camera phone. Jenn will answer your questions about the animals, plants, and history of the Bar Harbor waterfront, demonstrate simple photo-editing apps to use on your phone, help you share your work on social media, and print out one of your photos to take home.
This is a low-tech class that anyone can enjoy. The class is best suited for people 14 and older, and able to climb down a small hill to the beach. Be prepared to walk at the edge of the surf in the low tide.
ticketscandy.com/e/playing-with-nature-digital-art-from-found-objects-4486
SUNDAY, MAY 19
GET YOUR OPEN BARN DAY ON!
GET YOUR BACKPACK PROGRAM FUNDRAISER ON!
EVENTS VIA BAR HARBOR CHAMBER
FUTURE EVENTS:
Resilience Hubs & Peer-to-Peer Check-in Networks: A Community Dialogue
Town of Mount Desert - Thursday, June 6th from 6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
at the Northeast Harbor Public Library
Town of Tremont - Thursday, June 13th from 6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
at the Bass Harbor Public Library
During these discussions, community members will learn about resilience hubs and how these hubs have been implemented around the country, as well as examples of how neighbors have united to implement localized emergency responses through peer-to-peer check-in networks. Participants will then provide feedback on how such projects might unfold within the local community to best serve residents. The Town of Mount Desert and the Town of Tremont currently have a joint-grant through the Maine Community Resilience Partnership that is funding planning for multiple possible projects, including resilience hubs and peer-to-peer check-in networks.
Rey Vallenato Beto Jamaica plays live at COA
BAR HARBOR—Rey Vallenato Beto Jamaica, the “Vallenato King,” brings his accordion-driven music to College of the Atlantic on Wednesday, May 22 at 7 p.m. The free show takes place in the Thomas S. Gates, Jr. Community Center on COA campus.
Alberto “Beto” Jamaica’s music, infused with vibrant rhythms of cumbia, paseo, and porro, has captivated audiences worldwide. Acclaimed as the “Vallenato King” since winning the Leyenda Vallenata Festival in 2006, Beto Jamaica stands as a prominent figure in Colombia’s music scene.
Originating from Colombia’s Caribbean coast, vallenato blends Spanish juglares’ traditions with West African griot influences, historically serving as both entertainment and a means of communication. Beto Jamaica modernizes this rich tradition, integrating electric bass, congas, and timbales while preserving its authentic essence. His performances, spanning across prestigious festivals globally, showcase the enduring allure of vallenato’s rhythmic tapestry.
GET YOUR GOLF ON!
MDI Lion's Club Hosts Golf Tournament to Support Community and Vision-Related Needs
MOUNT DESERT ISLAND—The MDI Lion's Club is thrilled to announce the MDI Lions Annual Golf Tournament is back and set to take place on Saturday, June 1, 2024, at the Kebo Valley Golf Club. With a 12 P.M. start, this exciting event promises a day of camaraderie, competition, and most importantly, community support.
The MDI Lion's Club has long been a pillar of charitable work in the Mount Desert Island community, dedicated to serving those in need, particularly in the realm of vision-related issues. They aim to raise crucial funds to further their mission and support local community needs.
"Golf has always been a sport that brings people together, and we couldn't think of a better way to unite our community in support of a worthy cause," said Peter Gott, King Lion for the MDI Lion's Club. "This tournament is not only about enjoying a day on the green but about making a tangible difference in the lives of those who need it most."
The tournament will feature a scramble format. Participants can look forward to exciting on-course contests, and a post-tournament awards ceremony. Additionally, sponsors will have the opportunity to showcase their support for the community through various sponsorship packages.
All proceeds from the tournament will directly benefit the community as the MDI Lion's Club continues its support of community needs, necessary programs, and their scholarship fund which awards 4 new and 4 returning students in the trades. Every dollar raised will make a meaningful impact on the lives of this community.
"We are incredibly grateful for the support of our sponsors, participants, and volunteers who are helping to make this event possible," added Gott. "Together, we can make a difference and continue to uphold the Lion's Club motto of 'We Serve.'"
Sponsorship packages and player registration for the MDI Lion's Annual Golf Tournament is now open. For more information on registration, sponsorship opportunities, or to get involved, please contact Heather Jones at Heather@Jones-Business.com or 207-266-0114.
GET YOUR MEMORIAL DAY POP-UP ON!
Zapapa Handmade, based in Kittery, is coming to Hulls Cove Schoolhouse for a two-day pop-up boutique on Memorial Day weekend:, Sat May 25-Sun May 26.
It will be from 10:00-5:00 both days
Zapapa’s clothing and home goods are all made by expert sewists in beautiful high end “dead stock” natural fabrics. Zapapa specializes in simple and elegant designs for everyday and special occasions.
GET YOUR ANNUAL BIRTHDAY PARTY ON!
To get tickets, click here.
GET YOUR CRITERION ON!
Howie Day - 20th Anniversary of "Stop All The World Now"
Saturday, July 20 | 7PM
https://criteriontheatre.fanlink.tv/072024
Jennifer Booher, The Beachcombing Series.
April 1 - May 31.
Bar Harbor Savings & Loan Association, 103 Main Street, Bar Harbor
ARTWAVES CLASSES AND EVENTS
ArtWaves often has classes, a variety every week. For the updated selection, check out its website here
Stained Glass for Beginners
Saturday, May 25th, 9am-4pm
https://artwavesmdi.org/event-5634211?CalendarViewType=1&SelectedDate=5/14/2024
In this beginners class, participants will learn all of the techniques used in a full-sized copper foiled stained glass panel, but in a smaller context. Steps include pattern cutting, glass selection and cutting, grinding, foiling, soldering, and finishing with patina and wax.
Felted Geodes
Thursday, May 23rd, 5:30-6:30pm
https://artwavesmdi.org/event-4844185?CalendarViewType=1&SelectedDate=5/14/2024
Learn step-by-step how to wet felt a geode with the added attraction of getting to 'slice' it open to see the colorful core. All materials included with ArtWaves' amazing array of colorful fleece and gear. Members get $10 off the class and can stay until 8pm as part of our Open Studio.
Intermediate Cyanotypes
Saturday, May 25th, 12-2pm
https://artwavesmdi.org/event-5599503?CalendarViewType=1&SelectedDate=5/14/2024
If you've got the basics down and want to push your materials further, here is the opportunity to try more complicated techniques like wet cyanotypes, bleaching, and toning. Jennifer Booher will have a variety of papers and prints for you to experiment with.
Lap Loom Weaving
Thursday, May 30th, 5:30-6:30pm
https://artwavesmdi.org/event-5684473?CalendarViewType=1&SelectedDate=5/14/2024
Explore the possibilities of designs, learn how to warp a loom with a heddle, and use the shuttle. ArtWaves has an incredibly colorful array of yarns to create a small tapestry or a simple monochromatic design for a coaster.
Naturalist Illustration: Illustrating the Seas
Sunday, May 19th, 12-4pm
https://artwavesmdi.org/event-5696802?CalendarViewType=1&SelectedDate=5/18/2024
This course will invite students to learn about naturalist illustration, a discipline of capturing the artist's perspective in the work, rather than strictly adhering to realism. Students will be encouraged to use their references with loose interpretation and add their own flare to their work.
Art Night with NextStep
Thursday, May 16th, 5:30-6:30pm
https://artwavesmdi.org/event-5692973?CalendarViewType=1&SelectedDate=5/18/2024
Our friends with NextStep will be joining us in the studio to create artwork that calls attention to the fact that abuse can happen to anyone, from any walk of life. We will discuss the impact that abuse has on a person, their loved ones, and their community, as well as dispelling some common myths about how it happens or who it happens to.
Fusion Flow Fitness
Thursdays in May and June, 5:30-6:30pm
https://artwavesmdi.org/event-5696289?CalendarViewType=1&SelectedDate=5/2/2024
This class is a braid of yoga, pilates, barre, and the art of not caring what you look like, but how you feel. Move, sweat, breathe, and enjoy!
JESUP EVENTS
For a full list of Jesup Memorial Library events, click through to its calendar here.
QUESTIONS OF DEMOCRACY
The 2024 College of the Atlantic Summer Institute will examine democracy in the United States during one of the most consequential years of our times.
Struggles for democracy traverse our lives and society, from ballot boxes to inboxes, from the corridors of congress to the halls of schools, from kitchen tables to city streets. Questions of democracy confront us in our debates over freedom of the press, voting rights, and artistic freedom, in struggles of authoritarianism, and in conversations about how to effectively engage with disagreement and conflict across a range of topics.
Join us from July 29 - August 2 as elected officials, authors, analysts, and community organizers discuss what democracy means to them, the threats it faces, and how our individual and collective efforts can fortify democracy now and for future generations.
We will announce speakers over the next weeks. Please check the Summer Institute page for more details as they are announced. Registration is free, and opens May 1 for Champlain Society members, June 1 for the general public.
ONGOING:
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 PRAYER SHAWL ON!
Welcoming all knitters and would be knitters…and crocheters! The Welcome and Care Team at the Bar Harbor Congregational Church UCC is hosting a weekly Prayer Shawl Mission Group every Saturday from 10 a.m. until noon at the Bar Harbor Congregational Church UCC. The intention of the group is to create a sense of community and a flow of Prayer Shawls for distribution to those in need of comfort due to illness, loneliness, or loss. Supplies and instruction will be provided to those with skills for knitting and/or crocheting and for those with a desire to learn.
There are no costs to the participants.
For more information contact Pat by calling (203) 770-0063 or email: pgdizazzo@yahoo.com.
GET YOUR OPEN MIC, MUSIC, COMEDY, AND KARAOKE ON!
Open mic night is back at the Finback!! We are still working on kitchen projects until March, but we are going to open the door on Friday nights for music! We'll make a batch of chili or soup every Friday just in case you need something to warm up! Doors open at 7!
Karaoke is on Saturday nights!
GET YOUR VOLTA ON!
Volta, in Trenton, has a ton of things always going on. You can check that out here.
Get Your Knowledge On!
ASC Racial Justice Book Group
Are you interested in joining us? We are open to new members who want to share in the reading and the hard work that ensues as we examine the underpinnings of systemic racism and its effects on society and on each of us individually, in the ultimate hope that our studies can work toward change.
We have been meeting once a month on the second Tuesday of the month from 10:30- 12:15.
We started with the basic readings of How to Be an Antiracist by Ibram X. Kendi and The Sum of Us by Heather McGhee. We then spent many months delving deeply into The 1619 Project edited by Nikole Hannah-Jones.
Since then, we’ve read some James Baldwin, Colon Whitehead, Zora Neale Hurston, Eddie S. Glaude, Jr., Clint Smith and many others. We look forward in the next few months to reading some James McBride and Bryan Stevenson. We also share articles of interest that deal with the issues we’re facing.
If the truly hard, but most meaningful, work we are doing to examine our society, culture and ourselves sounds like something that interests you, please contact me at rjbg2021@gmail.com or 207-664-9954.
Read more about the book group
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
GET YOUR MOVIE ON!
REEL PIZZA
Reel Pizza is open! To check out what’s playing go here.
Tickets are on sale via its website.
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!
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.
DOWNEAST COMMUNITY DANCE
Downeast Community Dance
Free form dance, conscious or ecstatic, not facilitated. Come drop into your own joyful movement.
This is now held the first, third, and fifth Sunday of the month at 10 a.m. at ArtWaves Dance StudioFor more information, contact Susan at 288-8103 or cloudnine@gwi.net.
Location
Dance Studio at ArtWaves, 1345A State Highway 102, Bar Harbor
MDI YMCA CLASSSES
For a full listing, check out here.
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 its open, at 6:30 p.m, you can come hear the maestro Bob Lombardi. Maestro isn’t something we put out there for everyone. Havana is on lower Main Street.
IVY MANOR INN
Every day out on the lawn, weather permitting, the music begins at 2!
GET YOUR FOOD ON!
OPEN TABLE MDI!
For more information, click here.
“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 or Trenton or Ellsworth or even Bangor) that you’d like me to mention, please let me know, because I’m definitely always missing some events every week.