Aug 01, 2025
The Bar Harbor Story is generously sponsored by The 1932 Criterion Theatre.
ANOTHER 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, people, 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.
BRIEF: BIG CHANGES FOR TWO LOCAL STORES AND MULTIPLE COMMERCIAL PROPERTIES
MOUNT DESERT ISLAND—F.T. Brown General Store, a Northeast Harbor mainstay announced on Facebook that it will be closing as of September 1. The local store had been in business for 125 years and sold general goods. Five generations of Browns had owned the store.
Kelly Brown told the Mount Desert Islander’s Rebecca Alley that it was hard to keep up with the times and to compete with online shopping. They will keep ownership of the building and hope to find a new use for it. The apartments associated with the building will remain. The story was originally written about by the Quietside Journal’s Lincoln Millstein.
The Island Market & Supply (TIMS) on Swan’s Island is for sale with an asking price of $395,000. The store supplies island residents with goods.
TIMS isn’t the only commercial property that may have a change of ownership.
There are approximately 12 commercial properties for sale on Mount Desert Island, including working waterfront property on the Shore Road in Southwest Harbor; Acadia Yurts and Wellness Center a glamping campground; a mixed-use property that is currently a veterinary hospital in Bar Harbor; a large commercial shop on Route 102; and the current home of Pizzeria 131 in Bar Harbor.
Reservations Now Open for Maine Seacoast Mission’s Sunbeam Award Gala
NORTHEAST HARBOR—Join Maine Seacoast Mission at the 2025 Sunbeam Award Gala to honor Cornelia Cogswell Rossi Foundation and Sunrise County Economic Council on Thursday, August 21 at the Bar Harbor Club in Bar Harbor, Maine. Reservations can now be made on the Mission’s website.
Started in 2004, the Sunbeam Award Gala recognizes those who embody the ideals of community. Doors for this year’s program will open at 4:30 p.m. and attendees can enjoy drinks and light appetizers before the program begins at 5:00 p.m. The program will honor awardees and share more about the Mission’s work in the Downeast area and on Maine’s outer, unbridged islands. The program will be followed by a reception on the club’s veranda at 6:00 p.m.
To welcome more Mission supporters and the general public, 2025 ticket categories include $30 Greenhorn reservations for first-time attendees, and $75 Crew reservations for general admission. Greenhorn and Crew attendees can select from a variety of seating and viewing options. Patron reservations include $150 Captain level, $300 Commodore level, and $600 for Admiral level. There is also a $5,000 Rusticator table sponsorship. Patron-level attendees will be seated at tables and receive personalized food and drink service. Reservations can be placed at https://interland3.donorperfect.net/weblink/weblink.aspx?name=E360294&id=7. Greenhorn and Crew level attendees may walk in the day of the event and purchase a ticket.
“At this year’s Sunbeam Award Gala, we will honor both Cornelia Cogswell Rossi Foundation and Sunrise County Economic Council,” shares Mission President John Zavodny. “Both organizations have a deep commitment to strengthening island and Downeast communities, which has ensured residents can continue to thrive. Their long-standing partnership with and trust in the Mission are essential in our work.”
The Cornelia Cogswell Rossi Foundation carries on the philanthropic vision of Dr. Joseph and Connie Rossi, a couple with a strong love of Maine. The foundation has a commitment to supporting efforts intended to benefit all the people of Maine including promoting healthcare, education, and environmental conservation.
For more than 30 years, Sunrise County Economic Council has facilitated prosperity in Washington County by working with a consortium of community-minded businesses, nonprofit organizations, municipalities, and citizens. Their work focuses on developing the workforce, increasing support and resources for entrepreneurs and businesses, and improving and strengthening natural and built environments in Washington County.
The Mission would like to thank its Corporate Sponsors and Corporate Donors for their continued support. This year’s supporters include Platinum Sponsors Bar Harbor Bank & Trust and Wyman’s; Bronze Sponsors Billings Diesel & Marine, First National Bank, Maggie Keohan and Goldman Sachs, and the Snowman Group; Copper Sponsors Acadia Bike & Coastal Kayaking Tours and Machias Savings Bank; and Corporate Donors Berry Dunn, Front Street Shipyard, and Hamilton Marine.
To make a reservation, please visit the reservation page at https://interland3.donorperfect.net/weblink/weblink.aspx?name=E360294&id=7 or contact Senior Development Associate Devin Mack at (207) 801-6010 or by email at dmack@seacoastmission.org. To learn more, visit https://seacoastmission.org/gala.
Rooted in a history of compassionate service and mutual trust, Maine Seacoast Mission seeks to strengthen coastal and island communities by educating youth, supporting families, and promoting good health. For more information, please visit https://seacoastmission.org/
AUGUST EVENTS AT HIDDEN BARN BOOKS IN BAR HARBOR!
All Aboard for Family Fun!
Touch-a-Train Returns to Ellsworth on August 16
ELLSWORTH—The Downeast Scenic Railroad and New England Steam Corporation are thrilled to welcome families back for the much-anticipated Touch-a-Train event on Saturday, August 16, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Washington Junction rail yard.
This hands-on celebration of Maine’s railroad heritage invites train lovers of all ages to climb aboard locomotives, explore vintage rail cars, and meet the engineers and volunteers who help keep the Downeast Scenic Railroad rolling. Guests can check out the conductor’s cab, operate the horn, and take in the sights and sounds of classic trains up close.
Free caboose and track car rides will be offered throughout the morning, along with free guided tours of the historic Maine Central 470 steam locomotive, currently under restoration by the New England Steam Corporation.
New this year: Revolution Rail Company will be on site offering rail bike demonstrations, giving visitors a chance to see their unique pedal-powered vehicles in action along the Downeast Scenic Railroad line.
The fun continues on board with two special train rides:
- 10:30 am — Junior Engineer Excursion: A one-hour, family-friendly ride offered at a special reduced rate, perfect for young train lovers.
- 1:30 pm — Full-Length Scenic Ride: A standard fare excursion offering a relaxing journey through the woods and wetlands of Hancock County.
Admission to Touch-a-Train is free, and donations are welcome to support the preservation of Maine’s railroad history. Proceeds from train rides benefit the nonprofit Downeast Rail Heritage Preservation Trust, which operates the Downeast Scenic Railroad.
To learn more or reserve tickets, visit www.downeastscenicrail.org.
Gallery at Somes Sound | Thomas Blagden, Photographer
Acadia: The Engaging Landscape
August 10 – 31, 2025
SOMESVILLE—The Gallery at Somes Sound will feature photographs by Thomas Bladgen during the month of August (10 – 31), “Acadia” The Engaging Landscape”. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to Friends of Acadia.
For over four decades Thomas Blagden’s photography has always been more about generating a sense of place than about specific subjects. Blagden strives to show the essence of a place in all its varied habitats and diverse nature. He concentrates his work on locations that he loves and that are part of his life. Growing up in a family of artists in Connecticut’s Northwest Corner instilled in Blagden a deep love for the land.
Blagden’s hope and goal is that by investing his photographic efforts over a long period, the collective body of work will serve to assign a higher conservation value to these places and be of tangible use to the non-profits dedicated to preserving them. Blagden pursues book projects as the ultimate expression of these endeavors.
“If ecology is all about the diversity of living things and their interrelationships, then nature photography is about the diversity of aesthetics that define our emotional response to Mother Earth. This very response connects us to the pulse of life. It is why our fundamental understanding of nature is bound as much by sensual qualities as by science. Images of nature remind us of who we are and, more importantly, that the wellbeing of our spiritual landscape is inherently bound to the integrity of our natural landscape. When I’m enveloped in Acadia, when the sun is just rising over tide pools and not another soul is around, yes, I own that moment. That’s what I live for and what generates the good images. Yet, it’s the accumulation of those experiences that matters more, because that sense of ownership transcends to a sense of belonging and to the discovery that we as individuals are inseparable from place and fully bound to it. The enlightenment of person by place is the baptism of Acadia. I photograph to evoke a landscape that is temporal, forever dynamic, vulnerable, mysterious, unbounded and, above all, humbling.”
BAKING FOR BOOKS PLUS…
BAR HARBOR—Once again the Bar Harbor Congregational Church UCC Connections team is hosting the Jesup Library Bake Sale on Saturday, August 16th from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. which coincides with the Jesup Memorial Library’s Annual Book Sale (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.). Come and help support our community’s library!
In the event of rain, the bake sale will be held inside the church building. Contact: Cas Dowden at (207) 812-6240 or casruell@gmail.com if you would like to contribute baked goods, flowers, fruit and vegetables to the Bake Sale Plus. All donations are welcome! A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the library and the remainder will be used to offset the cost of replacing the sprinklers due to the double sprinkler disaster that occurred at the church last summer.
FOOTLOOSE SHADOW CAST
Causeway Conversation to Explore “Rewiring the Media” with High-Profile Journalism Panel
SOUTHWEST HARBOR—On Monday, August 4 at 5:30 p.m. at the Causeway Club Red Barn, the Southwest Harbor Public Library will present a special Conversation at the Causeway journalism panel. This engaging discussion, titled “Rewiring the Media: How Financial Pressures and New Platforms Are Changing the Way You Get Your News,” will feature a distinguished panel of nationally and locally recognized journalists:
- Dan Balz, chief correspondent, The Washington Post
- Brian Bennett, senior White House correspondent, Time Magazine
- Carolyn Fox, executive editor, Maine Trust for Local News
- Carrie Jones, journalist, newspaper editor, and founder of The Bar Harbor Story
- Frances Stead Sellers, editor and Washington Post Live moderator, The Washington Post
In this conversational setting, the panelists will explore how evolving economic models and digital technologies are reshaping journalism—from local newsrooms to national outlets—and what it means for how the public receives trusted information.
Dan Balz is chief correspondent at The Washington Post, where he has covered politics since 1978. He previously worked at National Journal and the Philadelphia Inquirer. A bestselling author and U.S. Army veteran, Balz is also a regular panelist on PBS’s Washington Week.
Brian Bennett has covered the White House for Time Magazine since 2017. Over his 25-year career, he has reported from 19 countries, interviewed world leaders, and covered major global events. He began his reporting career in Hong Kong in 2000, and went on to cover the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, serving as Time’s Baghdad bureau chief. He also previously reported for the Los Angeles Times, covering national security and immigration from Washington, D.C., where he now lives with his wife and son.
Carolyn Fox is the first executive editor of the Maine Trust for Local News, overseeing its statewide network of publications. She brings deep experience in leading newsrooms through the digital transition, with past roles at USA Today, National Geographic, Advance Local, NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune, and the Tampa Bay Times, where she managed a 100-person newsroom. Fox lives in Gorham with her husband, young daughter, and two rescue dogs.
Carrie Jones is an internationally and New York Times bestselling novelist, podcaster, and award-winning newspaper editor and journalist. She is the founder of The Bar Harbor Story, an independent news site focused on the people and stories of Bar Harbor, Acadia National Park, and Mount Desert Island.
Frances Stead Sellers is an associate editor at The Washington Post and a frequent moderator for Washington Post Live. A longtime editor and senior writer at the Post, Sellers has led coverage in health, science, and the environment, and reported on the Trump administration and the COVID-19 pandemic. A dual U.S.-UK citizen and former Oxford student, she has spent summers on Mount Desert Island for many years.
Registration is required as space is limited. Register to attend at https://tinyurl.com/2shx48fb. For questions or for more information, call the Library at 207-244-7065, visit www.swhplibrary.org, or email programs@swhplibrary.org.
ARTEMIS!
MDI Poet Presents Public Reading Of Collected Works
NORTHEAST HARBOR—On Thursday, August 7th at 5:30 p.m. the Northeast Harbor Library will host a free public reading by MDI poet Paul Weiss titled “Seasons of Life.”
Weiss—addressing the facts of growth, learning, aging, and facing our mortality—will read poems that explore and celebrate the process of living, its dimensions, and its relationship to something larger.
A teacher, therapist, and lifelong poet, Paul Weiss has made his home in Maine since 1969. A student of zen and tai chi since the mid nineteen sixties, he also studied in China over many years. His published work includes the poetry collection You Hold This (2012), as well as two books of Zen poems, commentaries, and teachings -– Moonlight Leaning Against an Old Rail Fence (2015) and The Dharma of Direct Experience: Non-dual Principles of Living (2022).
Register at nehlibrary.org/events or by calling 207-276-3333.
AFTERNOON AFTER HOURS WITH THE BAR HARBOR MUSIC FESTIVAL!
New Book Exposes Corruption in the Addiction Treatment Industry
NORTHEAST HARBOR—On Wednesday, August 6 at 5:30 p.m. the Northeast Harbor Library will host Dr. David Campbell – Chief Medical Correspondent for MSNBC’s Morning Joe – to discuss his new book titled Fighting the Florida Shuffle: The Inside Story of Corruption in the Drug Treatment Industry and How One Community Found the Solution.
Co-authored with former Palm Beach County State Attorney Dave Aronberg, Fighting the Florida Shuffle offers an unflinching look into the dark underbelly of the addiction treatment industry, revealing how profit-driven schemes are preying on vulnerable individuals seeking recovery. With a passionate foreword written by Joe Scarborough, the book dissects the systemic failures that have allowed unscrupulous actors to infiltrate and exploit the multi-billion-dollar drug treatment enterprise.
The book goes beyond the well-documented origins of the opioid epidemic, ignited by the aggressive marketing of OxyContin by Purdue Pharma, to expose a new, equally insidious threat: the corruption within the very industry designed to offer hope. The authors share gripping accounts of victims lured with false promises, including free plane tickets, into substandard outpatient rehab facilities and squalid “sober homes.” These individuals, often in desperate need of legitimate care, too frequently end up in ambulances or body bags, leaving behind grieving families.
Drawing on their insider perspectives from law enforcement and medicine, Aronberg and Campbell also provide:
- An in-depth analysis of how corporate malfeasance fueled the alarming rise in opioid overdoses.
- Practical guidance for families on how to identify and avoid deceptive rehab scams.
- The inspiring story of a community that successfully fought back, cleaning up the drug treatment industry and bringing the worst offenders to justice.
“Drug treatment has become a thriving enterprise, but the profit motive has lured predators to exploit the vulnerable who seek help,” said Campbell. “As rogue rehab owners line their pockets through insurance fraud, patient brokering and illegal kickbacks, their victims leave behind grieving families and loved ones, who wonder how the insurance coverage thought to be a lifeline led to increased overdose and premature death,” said Aronberg.
Fighting the Florida Shuffle is a critical and timely exposé, serving as an urgent call to action for policymakers, families, and communities to confront the pervasive corruption in the addiction treatment landscape and protect those most in need.
Register at nehlibrary.org/events or by calling 207-276-3333.
ZERO ENERGY HOMES OPEN HOUSES
MOUNT DESERT—Zero Energy Homes is on a mission to make energy-efficient homes more affordable to year-round Mainers, and it welcomes the public to two open houses of its first build in Searsport, Maine, on August 9, from 1 to 4 p.m., and August 12, from 4 to 7 p.m. A move-in-ready new construction, 14 Osprey Lane is an 896-square-foot home with high-performance features, including solar panels, heat pumps, and a tight thermal envelope, resulting in low or no utility bills for homeowners.
“Celebrate the completion of our first home, take a tour, meet members of the team, and learn about our mission,” said Caroline Pryor, president and founder of Zero Energy Homes.
Zero Energy Homes is addressing the pressing need for more housing for year-round Mainers, and will sell 14 Osprey Lane for $275,000 to a homebuyer earning 80% or less of area median income (AMI) in Waldo County. The Maine Department of Economic & Community Development is supporting the initiative by providing a Homebuyer Assistance Grant to a qualified homebuyer. Interested parties can learn more through the company’s website.
“There are so few options available to year-round Mainers looking to buy a home, whether they’re working full-time or retired,” said Caroline. “Our mission is to build high-quality, high-performance homes for those who qualify for a mortgage but have been priced out of the market.”
Zero Energy Homes recently signed an agreement with Maker Construction to build 10 homes in 2025 and 2026 using off-site construction methods. Additionally, the company is in the process of siting and developing a modular home manufacturing facility. Within five years of operation, the facility will produce 50-60 homes per year, at prices affordable to Mainers who earn 80-160% of their county’s AMI.
The open houses are an opportunity to see how Zero Energy Homes incorporates local and regionally-sourced building materials. The Osprey Lane home features 80% Maine and regional building materials, including cedar decking from Dewey’s Lumber, triple-glazed windows by Mathews Brothers, dimensional lumber from Hancock Lumber, wood-fiber insulation from TimberHP, AdvanTech sheathing from Huber Engineered Woods, and pine clapboards, flooring, and trim from Robbins Lumber sourced through Viking Lumber. The home includes Energy Star appliances from Brown Appliance. A second floor can be finished in the future for additional bedrooms or living space.
Zero Energy Homes partnered with Brightbuilt Home, a Portland-based design firm, to create the Searsport home’s traditional Cape-style design. Maker Construction, a builder in western Maine with off-site constructed expertise, did the site work, foundation, and constructed the home’s thermal shell. The build was facilitated by a low-interest construction loan provided by the Elmina B. Sewall Foundation. Learn more at www.zeroenergyhomes.coop, and by following the company on Instagram and LinkedIn.
Author Talk with Mac Smith: The Great Fire of 1947 and the End of Bar Harbor’s Golden Era
Thursday, August 7, 2025 at 6:30 p.m.
BAR HARBOR—On Thursday, August 7 at 6:30 p.m., historical writer Mac Smith returns to the Jesup Memorial Library with his latest book, The Great Fire of 1947 and the End of Bar Harbor’s Golden Era, which tells the riveting story of the desperate evacuation of residents through the heart of an uncontrolled forest fire burning all across Mount Desert Island. After an extremely dry summer, all areas of Maine spent the month of October fighting fires, with the island seeing the worst of the damage. Soon after the first flames were spotted, in a last, desperate and deadly escape from the quickly approaching and ever-growing flames, many Bar Harbor residents found themselves fleeing to the water, while others fled in a caravan for the causeway behind a bulldozer that cleared the way, all the while watching the loss of many of the mighty cottage-mansions and historic hotels that once symbolized the island’s heritage as a summer playground for the world’s richest people. Through extensive and meticulous research, Maine author and historian Mac Smith brings this important part of the state’s history to life.
A Navy veteran of the first Gulf War and former reporter for The Bar Harbor Times, Mac Smith lives in the village of Sandy Point. He is the author of several books of Maine history, including Mainers on the Titanic, Peyton Place Comes Home to Maine, Siege at the Statehouse, Disaster at the Bar Harbor Ferry, and Plain Madeleine.
ARTEMIS GALLERY EXHIBITION
NORTHEAST HARBOR—Join Artemis Gallery on July 31st from 5-7pm for an opening reception of our latest group show featuring artists David Graeme Baker, Bobby Haskell, Patricia Ingersoll, and Don Ripper. Enjoy drinks, small bites, music, and fine art. A portion of the sales from the show will benefit the Olympia Snowe Women’s Leadership Institute.
The show is on display through August 12th.
Contact us: info@artemisgalleryme.com
- 207-276-3001
- 1 Old Firehouse Lane
- Northeast Harbor, ME 04662
Concert for Climate with Sydney Patten and David Kunhardt
Thursday, August 14, at 6:30pm
BAR HARBOR—On Thursday, August 14 at 6:30 p.m., join Sydney Patten and David Kunhardt at the Jesup Library in Bar Harbor to be inspired on impactful ways to reduce carbon pollution. This hour-long concert will take you to magical underwater paradises and it will enliven ways to make real change to protect our beautiful home NOW! Leave with the knowledge of 60 things you can do to minimize carbon and plastic pollution!
Sydney Patten is a classically trained pianist and composer. She is a former vice president of the American Women Composers. Much of her music celebrates the ocean and the natural beauty of Mount Desert Island. Her climate activism takes the form of music. She has long believed that the best way to inspire people to make changes in their lives and in their world, is with music. She lives in Falmouth and in Hall Quarry with her husband, Bill and their dog, Patapouf!
A long-time advocate for effective and equitable climate policy, David Kunhardt is a volunteer for Citizens Climate Lobby, a member of the Climate Reality Leadership Corps, and serves as president of a conservation land trust in Tamworth, NH. He is also on the Board of the Piper Shores Lifecare Retirement Community. David is committed to building relationships across his region to cultivate the will for climate solutions that meet the scale of the climate crisis. With CCL, he is co-liaison to Senator Angus King (I-ME). As a retired solar energy executive, he is also engaged in renewable energy initiatives that bring home Community Power. David lives in Scarborough with his wife, Susan.
Great Libraries for Great Communities with David Lankes
Tuesday, August 12, 2025 at 5:30 p.m.
“Bad libraries only build collections. Good libraries build services (and a collection is only one of many). Great libraries build communities.” – R. David Lankes, Expect More: Demanding Better Libraries for Today’s Complex World
BAR HARBOR—R. David Lankes, Virginia and Charles Bowden Professor of Librarianship at the University of Texas at Austin, will appear for a public lecture at the Jesup Memorial Library on Tuesday, August 11 at 5:30 p.m.
Lankes will talk about how innovative libraries around the globe are being shaped to meet the challenges and opportunities of their communities. How does a “barefoot library” in South Korea connect to a library built into the industrial shell of a train factory in the Netherlands to one of the most innovative libraries in the US serving a population of 2,000 in Texas? How can these experiences inform the libraries of Maine moving into an uncertain future? Lankes will share what ties together great libraries around the globe and how these lessons can serve Bar Harbor and coastal Maine.
Lankes is a passionate advocate for libraries and their essential role in today’s society earning him the American Library Association’s Isadore Gilbert Mudge Award for distinguished contribution to reference librarianship in 2021 and the Ken Haycock Award for Promoting Librarianship in 2016. He also seeks to understand how information approaches and technologies can be used to transform industries. In this capacity he has served on advisory boards and study teams in the fields of libraries, telecommunications, education, and transportation including at the National Academies. He has been a visiting fellow at the National Library of Canada, The Harvard School of Education, the French national library school Enssib, and was the first fellow of ALA’s Office for Information Technology Policy. His book,The Atlas of New Librarianship won the 2012 ABC-CLIO/Greenwood Award for the Best Book in Library Literature. Read more at https://davidlankes.org/
Acclaimed Author, Historian, and Human Rights Advocate to Explore Women, Books, Art, and the Legacy of Bella da Costa Greene
SOUTHWEST HARBOR—Author, historian, and human rights leader Judith Goldstein will present “Women, Books, and Art, and the Extraordinary Bella de Costa Greene” at the Southwest Harbor Public Library on Tuesday, August 5 from 5:30-6:30 p.m. Goldstein will explore how advertising made women part of literary culture in the 1880s-1890s, as presented in the Art Deco posters of The Art of the Literary Poster (Leonard A. Lauder Collection). Goldstein will also talk about Belle da Costa Greene, the first librarian and director of the Morgan Library, within the context of women, books and art.
Bella de Costa Greene (1879–1950) was an influential library director and executive, advocate, and expert rare books collector and was J.P. Morgan’s personal librarian and the first director of the Morgan Library and Museum. Her father Richard Theorore Greener was the first black graduate of Harvard University, and in the time of Jim Crow Laws, Bella changed her name, originally Bella Marion Greener, to Bella de Costa Greene, crossing color lines to pass as white. As a pioneer for women in the rare books and manuscript field, Greene advocated for higher pay for women in public libraries.
Dr. Judith S. Goldstein founded Humanity in Action in 1997. She served as its Executive Director for over 20 years leading its international educational programs. Judith received her Master’s Degree and PhD in history from Columbia University. She has written several books and articles about European and American history, including works on Maine and Mt. Desert Island.
Talk details at https://tinyurl.com/y5m4brj3, For more information, call 207-244-7065, visit www.swhplibrary.org, or email programs@swhplibrary.org.
Crane Folding Returns to the Library Promoting Peace and Hope
SOUTHWEST HARBOR—Stop by for a crane folding hour at the Southwest Harbor Public Library Tuesdays from 3:30-4:30 starting August 5. Folding peace cranes has a long history at the library. Over the years approximately 25 thousand cranes have been folded by young and old in the Southwest Harbor Library and sent around the world. Our purpose in folding peace cranes is to promote inner peace in ourselves and the folders who join us. Then we gather them in groups of 1000 to send out as wishes for peace. All ages are welcome and we can teach anyone who wants to learn. Papers provided.
All past folders are encouraged to come, whether in 1987-90, its first season or 2007-2010 or 2017-19 seasons. This is yet another historic event in the library’s 130th anniversary year.
“Can’t wait to hear the quiet paper folding sounds in the library again.”
For questions or for more information, visit https://tinyurl.com/bdes9vvp, call the Library at 207-244-7065, or email programs@swhplibrary.org.
Anna Durand to speak about MDI’s Trade with the Slavery-Based West Indies
MOUNT DESERT—Mount Desert Island’s early colonial settlers relied on Caribbean slavery for everyday pantry ingredients, including molasses, coffee, sugar, and rum. Local schooners traded wood products and dried cod for these tropical treats, used in everything from flavoring medicines and gingerbread to hot drinks and cured ham. Resistance to the brutality of enslavement was widespread and constant across the West Indies, even as the goods made there brought wealth and a higher standard of living to the colonists here. Historical newspapers, local store ledgers, and colonial recipes help to trace the culinary connections between Mount Desert Island and the West Indies.
Join Anna Durand at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, August 13 at the Northeast Harbor Library as she speaks about her 2025 article in Chebacco, the MDI Historical Society’s annual history journal, entitled “Baked Beans, Brown Bread, Ackee and Saltfish: Mount Desert Island’s Nineteenth Century Foodways and Trade with the Slavery-Based West Indies,”
This program is a collaboration between the Northeast Harbor Library and the Mount Desert Island Historical Society. It will be offered in person and via Zoom. It will be recorded for later viewing. For more information and to register, go to: https://mdihistory.org/events
End-of-Summer Kids Concert with Jackson Gillman Brings Story, Song & Laughter
SOUTHWEST HARBOR—Call it what you like — cabaret, vaudeville, or story/song-filled fun — but don’t miss the End-of-Summer Kids Concert with Jackson Gillman at the Southwest Harbor Public Library, from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m. on Friday, August 15. Jackson Gillman’s performance for families and children reaches out and touches the audience — making them laugh, making them think, and leaving them delighted. His interactive and educational shows incorporate song, dance, mime, and/or sign language, taking audiences on a rollicking ride through his wildly imaginative worlds of creative adventure. This is a family event — all ages are welcome, and no registration is required.
Gillman is a twenty-five year veteran of the New England Touring Artists Program and also served on the theatre advisory panel for the Maine Arts Commission. He has presented keynotes at many conferences and festivals, and has featured at the National Storytelling Festival.
“And I really do believe that humor can enliven and enlighten any group, meeting, or gathering, and mine is based on a foundation of beneficence, hope, and a belief in the enduring power of the human spirit.”
For information, visit https://tinyurl.com/y4vkhtza
REAL ESTATE
BAR HARBOR
- Christopher M. Dion and Stephanie L. Dion, Sun Prairie, Wis., to Carlyle B. Paul and Susanne F. Paul, Bar Harbor, as joint tenants, land with buildings and improvements.
CRANBERRY ISLES
- Estate of Althea D. Savage, Sorrento to Jeremy Michael Wells and Suheyla Zubaroglu, New York, N.Y., land with buildings and improvements.
LAMOINE
- Riley’s Way LLC, Lamoine to Skip Chase Murphy and Susan Elizabeth Murphy, Alburquerque, N.M., as joint tenants, land with buildings and improvements. MOUNT DESERT
- Stephen and Margaret Pearson Family Real Estate Partnership, Northeast Harbor to E.Z. Breezes LLC, Jackson, Wyo., land with buildings and improvements.
- Robert B. Alexander Jr., Mount Desert to Robert B. Alexander Jr. and Lynda H. Alexander Revocable Living Trust, Mount Desert, land.
- Matthew Clamer, Mount Desert to Edward B. Babcock Family Real Estate Trust, Mount Desert, land.
- Christie C. Burdette, Maria Ikwugwalu and Emma Burdette, Mount Desert to Christie C. Burdette, Maria Ikwugwalu and Dozie Ikwugwalu, Mount Desert, as joint tenants, land with buildings.
SOUTHWEST HARBOR
- Douglas A. Towne and Joanne M. Towne, Huntsville, Ala., to Mathew S. Grant, Bernard, land with buildings and improvements.
- Marilyn G. Clark, East Waterboro to Christine L. Munroe and Kenneth H. Munroe Jr., Portland, as joint tenants, interest in time-share estate at Harbor Ridge Condominium, Southwest Harbor, Unit 21, Week 20.
- Mark D. Jordan, New Gloucester to Steven R. Laccone and Deborah S. Laccone, Boynton Beach, Fla., as joint tenants, interest in timeshare estate at Harbor Ridge Condominium, Southwest Harbor, Unit 43, Week 29.
- Brian K. MacFawn and Sheena M. Blake, f/k/a Sheena M. MacFawn, Lisbon to Harbor Ridge Condominium Association, Southwest Harbor, 50% interest in time-share estate at Harbor Ridge Condominium, Southwest Harbor, Unit 34, Week 51.
- Estate of Susan W. Campbell to Hugh J. Campbell Jr. and Jane Simpson Campbell, Elkton, Md., as joint tenants, interest in time-share estate at Harbor Ridge Condominium, Southwest Harbor, Unit 14, Week 34.
- Ann B. Condriet, Framingham, Mass., to Jennifer L. Metzger and Marc A. Metzger, Englewood, Ohio, as joint tenants, 50% interest in timeshare estate at Harbor Ridge Condominium, Southwest Harbor, Unit 23, Week 26.
- Jeffrey R. Rabe and Peggy S. Rabe, Eureka, Mo., to Peter D. Hartwell and Corrine A. Hartwell, League City, Texas, as joint tenants, interest in time-share estate at Harbor Ridge Condominium, Southwest Harbor, Unit 37, Week 27.
- Estate of Mary E. Alley, Northwest Harbor to Harbor House Community Service Center, Southwest Harbor, land with improvements.
SWAN’S ISLAND
- Raymond E. Carter, Waldoboro to Raymond E. Carter and Nancy Carter, Waldoboro, Scott R. Carter, Waldoboro and Troy E. Carter, Waldoboro, as joint tenants, land with improvements.
- Bernard L. Mirkin Family Trust B, Chicago, Ill., to Christopher Boutlier and David Cromer, Washington, D.C., as joint tenants, land with improvements.
TREMONT
- Jean M. Siddall-Bensson and Steven A. Bensson, Attleboro, Mass., to Bensson Living Trust, Attleboro, Mass., land with buildings and improvements.
TRENTON
- Clive John Lawrence, Devon EX5 5BY, United Kingdom to Porcupine Cove LLC, Kennebunk, land with buildings and improvements.
STATE PRESS RELEASES
Chapter 90: Products Containing Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances
The Department is proposing to amend rule Chapter 90, to establish designations for currently unavoidable uses of intentionally added PFAS in products subject to sales prohibition beginning January 1, 2026.
Bruce Van Note, Commissioner of the Maine Department of Transportation (MaineDOT), will retire
Under his leadership, MaineDOT paved thousands of miles of roads, repaired hundreds of bridges, strengthened efforts to protect infrastructure from extreme storms, and worked to improve downtowns around the state
AUGUSTA—Governor Janet Mills today announced that Bruce Van Note, Commissioner of the Maine Department of Transportation (MaineDOT), will retire from his position on August 15, 2025.
Governor Mills nominated Van Note as commissioner of MaineDOT in 2019. His tenure as commissioner culminates a professional transportation career of over 30 years in Maine, which also included a dozen years as Deputy Commissioner of MaineDOT from 2002-2014, and as Director of Policy and Planning for the Maine Turnpike Authority (MTA) from 2014 through 2019.
As MaineDOT commissioner, Van Note earned a reputation as a pragmatic and effective leader who maximized the agency’s resources to drive forward exciting new initiatives, while maintaining Maine’s safe and reliable transportation network that is utilized by millions of residents and visitors each year.
Under his leadership, MaineDOT completed significant projects such as the construction of the Madawaska-Edmunston International Bridge, a lifeline between the U.S. and Canada; the opening of the I-395/Route 9 Connector, which moved freight traffic from surface streets in Bangor and Brewer to a more efficient connection between Canada and points south; the creation of LAP, a new commuter bus service between Lewiston, Auburn and Portland; expanded active transportation options; and revitalized downtowns from York to Aroostook counties through MaineDOT’s Village Partnership Initiative.
Van Note was also instrumental in guiding changes to the state’s Highway Fund to unlock new, sustainable revenue for state transportation investments that has reduced the need for general obligation bonding; led the agency’s implementation of the Federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and led MaineDOT’s response to the severe winter storms in December 2023 and January 2024 that caused more than $90 million in damage to public infrastructure around the state.
“Bruce Van Note has set a high standard for practicality and productivity and has been an invaluable member of my cabinet. Together we faced pandemic and post-pandemic workforce challenges, the allocation of new Federal funds, balancing legislative priorities, the need for public transportation in a rural state, and the constant need to protect the public safety on our highways,” said Governor Mills. “As an engineer and attorney, Bruce is at home working both in the field and in the State House, engineering ways to adapt our highways to alternative modes of transportation, to make travel as safe as possible, to enact policy in nonpartisan manner, and, very simply, to fix the potholes. Bruce leaves a remarkable legacy as MaineDOT commissioner. I will miss his contributions to my administration and I wish him nothing but the best following his retirement.”
“Serving as MaineDOT commissioner has been the honor and privilege of my life. I want to thank Governor Mills for giving me the opportunity to serve the people of Maine, the state I love. With her support, and through the efforts of the MaineDOT team, our consultant and contractor partners, and lawmakers at the federal and state levels, we have made a real difference in safety, economic opportunity, and quality of life in Maine,” said Commissioner Van Note. “There have been many challenges to overcome including the pandemic, significant increases in construction costs, workforce shortages, extreme storms, and more. They made this one of the toughest jobs you’ll ever love, but finding solutions is what we do, and throughout it all, I’m proud of the smart and steady progress we’ve made for the people of Maine.”
“Throughout his many years of service to our state, Bruce has been terrific to work with, and we have collaborated on over $1 billion worth of transportation projects for Maine,” said United States Senator Susan Collins. “A fellow Aroostook County native, Bruce understands the unique character of our state, including the challenges in connecting our rural communities. Although he will be sorely missed, I am glad to join Bruce’s many grateful colleagues and friends in thanking him for his years of dedicated service and wishing him all the best in his future endeavors.”
“I’ve known and worked with Bruce Van Note for over 30 years. He’s one of the most capable public officials I’ve ever had the opportunity to work with in my career of public service,” said United States Senator Angus King. “Over the course of his wide-ranging career, culminating with Commissioner of Maine Department of Transportation, Bruce led a complete overhaul of the Maine transportation system including major improvements to our highways — the critical connectors throughout Maine. Bruce’s retirement is well-earned. I wish him the very best and hope he can now take the time to spend with his family and friends.”
“Commissioner Van Note has served the people of Maine with unwavering dedication, integrity, and vision,” said State Senator Tim Nangle, Senate Chair of the Legislature’s Transportation Committee. “Under his leadership, MaineDOT has delivered critical infrastructure improvements across the state and worked to advance smart, sustainable investments in Maine’s transportation future. I thank him for his leadership and years of dedicated public service and wish him the very best in retirement. I also look forward to continuing our relationship with Acting Commissioner Dale Doughty. Dale is trusted and talented and will lead the Department with integrity and competence. Bruce’s legacy and Dale’s appointment will ensure MaineDOT continues to capably serve our State.”
“I thank Commissioner Van Note for his years of dedicated service to the people of Maine. His steady leadership, deep institutional knowledge, and collaborative approach helped guide MaineDOT through several complex challenges impacting transportation in Maine,” said State Representative Lydia Crafts, House Chair of the Legislature’s Transportation Committee. “I appreciate his commitment to working with the Legislature in a constructive and transparent way and wish him the very best in whatever comes next.”
“Commissioner Van Note has been a steady hand at the helm of MaineDOT, guiding the agency through critical investments in our roads, bridges, and infrastructure,” said State Senator Brad Farrin, Lead Republican Senator on Legislature’s Transportation Committee. “Our state owes him and the dedicated men and women at MaineDOT deep gratitude for their service–they truly are responsible for keeping Maine moving.”
“For more than 30 years, Commissioner Bruce Van Note has been a true public servant — and a driving force behind transportation in Maine,” said Maria Fuentes, Executive Director of the Maine Better Transportation Association. “His fingerprints can be found on projects in every corner of the state, and his grit, determination, and unwavering commitment to public service have benefited communities across Maine. Bruce’s passion for funding an integrated multimodal system will shape how people and goods move for generations to come. He never forgot his working-class roots–and he never stopped recognizing the talent, dedication, and heart of the team at MaineDOT that made it all possible. Maine Better Transportation Association wishes him the very best in his retirement.”
Under Van Note’s leadership, MaineDOT has delivered on its largest capital programs to date, totaling $2.5 billion, and regularly exceeds industry standards for project completion. Through 2024, this included 350 bridge projects, 362 miles of major highway improvements, over 6,000 miles of paving, nearly 250 safety related improvements and over $500 million in multimodal capital investments.
Prior to serving as commissioner, Van Note was a member of the MTA Board of Directors and Chair of the Maine Port Authority. In 2010, he was awarded the David H. Stevens Award — MaineDOT’s highest honor — for “demonstrated transportation excellence” for leading teams delivered projects like the Sagadahoc Bridge, the Penobscot Narrows Bridge and Observatory, and the Naples Bay Bridge.
Van Note, an engineering graduate, attorney, and professional land surveyor, was born in Houlton and grew up in Bath. He earned a B.S. in Surveying Engineering with highest distinction honors from the University of Maine in Orono, and a J.D. with honors from the University of Maine School of Law in Portland.
Upon Van Note’s retirement, the Governor will appoint MaineDOT Deputy Commissioner Dale Doughty as Acting Commissioner. Doughty has nearly three decades of experience with MaineDOT. Prior to assuming the Deputy Commissioner’s role, Doughty has served as Director of the Bureau of Planning and Director of the Bureau of Maintenance and Operations.
The Commissioner’s position is a cabinet-level appointment, subject to a hearing before the Legislature’s Transportation Committee and confirmation by the Maine State Senate.
Maine Dept. of Labor Celebrates Anniversary of the ADA and Elimination of Vocational Rehabilitation Wait List
AUGUSTA—July is not only Disability Pride Month, but also marks the 35th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The ADA says that regardless of ability, everyone deserves fair and equal access to services, programs, and activities. The Maine Department of Labor not only recognizes the strength, resilience, and diversity of the disability community, but also celebrates its ability to serve more Mainers with disabilities through its Vocational Rehabilitation program.
“Thirty-five years of the ADA has made it possible for people like us – with disabilities – to preserve our dignity, live independently, and participate fully in our society; however, there is always room for improvement,” said Jason Angel, State Accessibility Coordinator.
The ADA serves to create a more inclusive society through standards, legal protections, and increased awareness. While the ADA has led to significant progress, continued efforts are essential to protect these hard-won rights. In 2020, the Maine legislature eliminated exemptions from the minimum wage law that allowed the payment of sub-minimum wages to individuals with disabilities.
Maine’s Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR), within the Maine Department of Labor, is a program that helps people who have physical, mental, or emotional disabilities prepare for, find, and advance in employment.
People like “Sue”—a 53-year-old woman who had left the field of nursing due to a workplace injury, and for many years she believed that employment was not an option for her due to the numerous barriers she faced. Conversations with her VR Counselor included steps needed to address the barriers that she was facing so that she could pursue employment opportunities. Sue is now working as a nurse at a local nursing home, earning $45.00 per hour with full benefits. She no longer needs Social Security Disability and is in the process of purchasing her first home.
This is just one example of how DVR can help people with disabilities overcome barriers to employment. In recent years, some new vocational rehabilitation clients have had to wait for their services to begin because of high demand and available funding. In 2023, the Governor and the Maine Legislature authorized additional funding and staff for DVR. Since that time, DVR has worked tirelessly to eliminate a waitlist that had hovered at over 500 people. As a result, as of July 1, 2025, there is no longer a waitlist for services, and new clients are being accepted.
DVR offers a monthly virtual orientation to Vocational Rehabilitation services for individuals with disabilities. Orientation is an opportunity to learn about services and how VR can support you in obtaining, maintaining, and advancing in employment. It is offered every third Thursday of the month from 9-10 am. No pre-registration is necessary, and captioning and ASL are available.
This month, multiple summer programs for Maine youth with disabilities have also taken place:
- 11 students just celebrated the conclusion of Venturing into Independence and Building Skills for Employment (VIBE), a two-week residential program at the University of Southern Maine’s Gorham campus that gave them a chance to explore college campuses and businesses.
- The Maine Apprenticeship Program (MAP) took 9 students to explore Maine registered apprenticeship opportunities
- At the beginning of this week, a cohort of 32 students left with staff on the Northern College Bus Tour, where they will get to explore Maine college options, learn independence skills, and speak to college students with disabilities about their experience. The Southern College Bus Tour took place a few weeks prior, with 37 students participating.
More information on the monthly orientation and how to apply for services can be found here.
DEP Initiates Second Comment Period for Updated Draft Packaging Material Types List.
AUGUSTA—On December 5, 2024, the Maine Board of Environmental Protection adopted Stewardship Program for Packaging, 06-096 C.M.R. ch. 428 (2024). According to 06-096 C.M.R. ch. 428, the Department of Environmental Protection (Department) must initiate a formal rulemaking process for the contents of Appendix A, the Packaging Material Types List, within 270 days of the effective date of the rule.
In preparation for the formal rulemaking process, the Department is holding an additional stakeholder meeting to facilitate discussion and to provide an opportunity for stakeholders to share comments and ask questions on the second DRAFT Initial Packaging Material Type List. The meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, August 5, 2025, from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm EDT. To accommodate for the short timetable the meeting will only be offered virtually. Use the following link to RSVP for the meeting: Stakeholder Meeting for Packaging Program.
The background document outlines the most frequently addressed comments from stakeholders regarding the first DRAFT Initial Packaging Material Types List and the Department’s response to these comments, including links to supporting documents. To reference the statute and rule, visit the program’s website.
The Department requests all comments addressing the second DRAFT Initial Packaging Material Types List be emailed to MainePackagingEPR@maine.gov by August 11, 2025.
The Department appreciates your continued participating in supporting the fair and successful implementation of this program.
August 1 marks the first day of two of Maine’s most consequential annual community science projects.
AUGUSTA—Deer Spy, and the Wild Turkey August Production Survey both invite community scientists to play a direct role in Maine’s wildlife management. All good management starts with science, and all good science starts with data. That’s where you come in! If you enjoy watching wildlife from your window, spend any time exploring in the Maine outdoors, or want a reason to start, you can participate. You do the fun part watching the wildlife, and we’ll do all the hard math when your numbers come in. Deal?
Why Community Science?
MDIFW biologists use numerous methods to keep a finger on the pulse of Maine’s white-tailed deer and wild turkey populations throughout the year. Our monitoring work is enhanced by the valuable local knowledge of Mainers with boots on the ground in all corners of the state. Community science is a powerful tool to amplify data collection capacity when it matters most.
With each observation submitted by hundreds of participants each year, our dataset becomes larger and patterns grow clearer, building our understanding of wildlife populations so we can fine-tune our strategies to meet management goals. That means healthy wildlife, balanced ecosystems, better viewing opportunities, reduced human-wildlife conflict, and sustainable harvest for generations to come.
Becoming a community scientist is more than just being an extra set of eyes and ears in the field. It’s a fun addition to any outdoor adventure, and a rewarding avenue through which your passion for natural resources can have a real impact, Will you go all in for the Maine outdoors with us?
Maine Deer Spy
Data collected by community scientists during Deer Spy helps biologists estimate the number of fawns added to the white-tailed deer population by the time hunting season begins each year. These recruitment patterns help inform management decisions made to maintain a healthy and sustainable population with opportunities for both wildlife watching and hunting. Your data makes a difference!
You can submit deer observations online from August 1-September 30. Submissions are accepted for sightings anywhere in Maine. When you see deer, make note of:
- Location of observation
- Date and time of observation
- Number of adult females
- Number adult males
- Number of fawns
Wild Turkey Survey
Maine’s Wild Turkey August Production Survey helps our biologists monitor annual reproduction rates in Maine’s wild turkey population. This information helps guide management decisions geared toward maintaining a healthy and sustainable population with plenty of opportunity for both wildlife watchers and hunters to enjoy and appreciate wild turkeys. It’s easy to participate!
You can contribute observations to the survey online from August 1-31. Observations can be from anywhere in Maine. Here’s what you’ll report when you see wild turkeys:
- Location and date of observation
- Number of adult females
- Number of Adult males
- Number of poults
- Poult size relative to adult females
FEDERAL PRESS RELEASES
Senator Collins Introduces Circuit Court Nominee Joshua Dunlap of Scarborough at Judiciary Committee Hearing
Click HERE to watch and HERE to download video of Senator Collins introducing Mr. Dunlap.
WASHINGTON D.C.—Today, at a hearing of the Senate Judiciary Committee, U.S. Senator Susan Collins introduced Joshua Dunlap of Scarborough, Maine, who has been nominated to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit.
Mr. Dunlap grew up in Vassalboro, Maine, and is currently a partner in the litigation group of Pierce Atwood LLP, in Portland, where he co-chairs the firm’s Appellate & Amici division. He has practiced at Pierce Atwood for over fifteen years, handling substantial civil litigation matters in both appellate and trial courts. He also chairs the Maine Appellate Rules Committee, to which he was appointed by the Maine Supreme Judicial Court. Prior to his work at Pierce Atwood, Mr. Dunlap clerked for the Honorable Paul J. Kelly, Jr., of the United States Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit. Mr. Dunlap graduated first in his class from Notre Dame Law School. He came to Washington for his hearing with twenty members of his family, including his parents, wife, and children.
Senator Collins:
“Chairman Grassley, Ranking Member Durbin, members of this committee, I’m pleased to appear before this distinguished committee today to wholeheartedly support Joshua Dunlap’s nomination to serve on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit.
“Josh grew up in Vassalboro, Maine and now lives in Scarborough with his wife, Sydney, and their three children. If you look in back of me, you will see his three children, his wife, his parents, and numerous other members of his family. In fact, 20 of them, who are so proud of his nomination that they’ve made the trip to Washington. Josh graduated first in his class from Notre Dame Law School, where he received the law school’s highest honor, awarded to the student with the most distinguished academic record. He then clerked for Judge Paul Kelly of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit.
“In 2009, Josh joined the very well-respected law firm Pierce Atwood in Portland, Maine. During his 16 years at the firm, he has specialized in complex civil litigation matters and currently serves as co-chair of the firm’s Appellate & Amicus division. Josh is admitted to practice in multiple U.S. Courts of Appeal and before the U.S. Supreme Court. He has also assisted special masters in three original jurisdiction proceedings before the U.S. Supreme Court. Finally, Josh also chairs the Maine Appellate Rules Committee to which he was appointed by the Maine Supreme Judicial Court. This impressive experience, coupled with his extraordinary intelligence and integrity, makes Josh exceptionally well-qualified for a seat on the First Circuit. His substantial appellate litigation experience will bring a practitioner’s perspective to the court.
“The committee has already received many compelling letters of support for this nominee, and I would like to highlight a couple of them. A diverse group of faculty and alumni of Notre Dame Law School who taught Josh or studied alongside him have praised his, “respect for differing views” and “deep appreciation for the rule of law.” A letter signed by 19 leading Maine attorneys, who described themselves as having a broad spectrum of political views and legal philosophies, wrote that Josh has all the qualities the finest judge’s exhibit; he is hardworking, courteous and judicial in temperament, very smart, and of sterling character with a commitment to fairness and the rule of law.
“Mr. Chairman, before I conclude, I would like to thank Judge William Kayatta, whom Josh has been nominated to replace, for his outstanding service to the First Circuit. I joined in recommending him to President Obama, and had the honor of introducing Judge Kayatta to this committee. Now, it is my honor to recommend Josh, who actually worked with Judge Kayatta early in his tenure at Pierce Atwood, to this committee. I am confident that, if confirmed, Josh will serve Maine and the nation extraordinarily well in this critical role.
“For these reasons, I urge the committee to support his nomination, and I appreciate this opportunity to introduce him to the committee.”
Senator Collins’ Statement on Retirement of MaineDOT Commissioner Bruce Van Note
Photos (Clockwise from top left): Commissioner Van Note Visiting Washington, D.C. – 2022; Road Improvements in Augusta – 2022; Dredging of the Port of Searsport – 2021; Casco Bay Lines Terminal Renovation – 2019
WASHINGTON D.C.–U.S. Senator Susan Collins issued the following statement in response to the announcement of the retirement of Maine Department of Transportation (MaineDOT) Commissioner Bruce Van Note:
“Throughout his many years of service to our state, Bruce has been terrific to work with, and we have collaborated on over $1 billion worth of transportation projects for Maine. A fellow Aroostook County native, Bruce understands the unique character of our state, including the challenges in connecting our rural communities. Although he will be sorely missed, I am glad to join Bruce’s many grateful colleagues and friends in thanking him for his years of dedicated service and wishing him all the best in his future endeavors.”
Senator Collins Advocates for Kay Hagan Tick Act as Bill Unanimously Advances out of Committee
As Lyme disease cases hit record high in Maine, Senate HELP Committee unanimously advances Collins-Smith bill to address the spread of Lyme and other tick-borne diseases
Click HERE for a full-resolution image
Click HERE to watch and HERE to download video of Senator Collins’ remarks
WASHINGTON D.C.–-Today, the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee unanimously approved the reauthorization of the bipartisan Kay Hagan Tick Act. The bill now advances to the Senate floor for consideration by the full body. At the hearing, U.S. Senator Susan Collins spoke in support of advancing the reauthorization of her landmark legislation, which she coauthored with Senator Tina Smith (D-MN), that became law in 2019. The Kay Hagan Tick Act strengthened the federal effort to confront the escalating incidence of Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses. Confirmed cases of Lyme disease reached a record number in Maine – 3,218 – last year.
Senators Collins and Smith named their bill in honor of former Senator Kay Hagan (D-NC) who passed away on October 28th, 2019, due to complications of the tick-borne disease known as the Powassan virus. Senator Angus King (I-ME) and a bipartisan group of 13 other Senators have cosponsored the legislation.
Senator Collins:
“I authored the original Tick Act in 2019 with Senator Tina Smith. Our bipartisan legislation strengthened federal efforts to confront the escalating incidents of Lyme disease and other vector borne illnesses. Our bill is named after our former colleague, Senator Kay Hagan, who passed away in October 2019 from complications of the deadly tick-borne disease known as the Powassan virus. It is my hope that reauthorizing the Tick Act will help to prevent further tragedies.
“The incidence of tick-borne diseases has exploded in the past 20 years. Maine reached a new Lyme disease record last year with 3218 reported cases. This is more than double the number of cases reported in Maine just five years ago. I’m encouraged that we’ve made progress in the five years since this bill was first introduced, for example, a clinical trial for Lyme disease vaccine for people is underway right now at Maine Health’s Institute for Research. Reauthorizing the Tick Act would allow crucial developments such as the development of a vaccine to continue.
“The Tick Act uses a three-pronged approach to address Lyme and other tick and vector borne diseases. This approach consists of first, implementing HHS’s national strategy to combat vector borne disease. Second, reauthorizing funding for the CDC’s four Centers of Excellence in vector borne disease. And third, reauthorizing grants to state and local health departments to assist them in bolstering their public health infrastructure.
“I want to thank Senator Smith for partnering with me, as well as our 14 bipartisan co-sponsors, including members of this committee, Senators Marshall, Hassan, Hawley, Hickenlooper and Banks. Again, Mr. Chairman, I’m very grateful for your including this on the markup agenda, and I’m delighted that we’re going to report the bill today”
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In addition to Senators Collins, Smith, and King, the legislation is cosponsored by Senators Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Josh Hawley (R-MO), Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Roger Marshall (R-KS), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Dave McCormick (R-PA), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Jim Banks (R-IN), Peter Welch (D-VT), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), John Hickenlooper (D-CO).
The complete text of the legislation can be read here.
Senator Collins, Bipartisan Group Introduce Legislation to Exempt Small Businesses from Tariffs on Canadian Imports
WASHINGTON D.C.—U.S. Senator Susan Collins joined Peter Welch (D-VT) and a bipartisan group of six of her Senate colleagues in introducing the Creating Access to Necessary American-Canadian Duty Adjustments (CANADA) Act. This legislation would exempt United States-owned small businesses from tariffs imposed on Canada.
Ongoing changes to tariff levels and uncertainty about future trade policy have been difficult to navigate for small businesses across the United States—including in Maine, where Canada is the state’s largest trading partner. Tariffs lead to supply chain disruptions, increased costs of goods and materials, smaller profits and higher costs for consumers.
“Imposing tariffs on Canada, Maine’s closest trading partner, threatens jobs, drives up costs, and hurts small businesses that have long relied on cross-border cooperation and exchange,” said Senator Collins. “This bipartisan legislation would shield small businesses throughout the country from unnecessary economic harm while preserving the vital trade ties that support so many Maine communities.”
In addition to Senators Collins and Welch, this legislation was cosponsored by Senators Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Ed Markey (D-MA), and Ron Wyden (D-OR).
The CANADA Act is supported by Main Street Alliance and Small Business Majority.
The complete text of the bill can be read here.
“How in the World?” Senator King Confronts Pentagon Nominee on Impact to Cybersecurity Priorities Amid Massive Cuts
The full clip of the exchange can be viewed or downloaded here
WASHINGTON D.C.—U.S. Senator Angus King (I-ME) today questioned a Department of Defense nominee on the harmful impact of staffing cuts to the Defense Department that tests weapons systems including testing for cybersecurity. In an exchange with Dr. Amy Henninger, nominee to be Director of Operational Test and Evaluation at the Department of Defense (DoD) during a hearing of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), King questioned whether she was in support of the existing staffing cuts and whether, if confirmed, she believed she would have enough resources to keep Americans safe.
Senator King began, “70% of the staff in the office you are designated to lead has been cut, yet at the same time, the challenges of investing in a new technology, particularly the challenges of cyber and ensuring cybersecurity of the whole supply chain, have multiplied in recent years. How in the world are you going to do your job when you’ve only got 30% of the people who were there a year ago?
“Thank you for the opportunity to expand on that, Senator King. I have not been briefed on the details, the Secretary of Defense, his memorandum and decisions after the memorandum,”Dr. Henninger replied. “I understand that there is a 60-day period, where there will be a reconsideration of any resources that might be necessary. I don’t know where that stands right now. The operational test and evaluation community spreads out responsibility, across a number of entities, including the service OTAs who actually do the cyber testing. At DOT&E, the office that you were talking about in your question, specifically provides oversight and analysis for a certain number of programs that were on the oversight list. And when I get into the office, I will do an independent analysis.”
Senator King concluded, “I think this office is very important, particularly at this moment in time.”
As former Co-Chair of the Cyberspace Solarium Commission (CSC) and current member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) and Senate Select Intelligence Committee (SSCI), Senator King is recognized as one of Congress’ leading experts on cyberdefense and as a strong advocate for a forward-thinking cyberstrategy that emphasizes layered cyberdeterrence. Since it officially launched in April 2019, dozens of CSC recommendations have been enacted into law, including the creation of a National Cyber Director.
Together with Solarium Co-Chair former Representative Mike Gallagher, King previously urged the Biden Administration to better protect the public health sector from cyber threats and called for stronger, collaborative efforts to address the growing threat. Senator King has also introduced the bipartisan Strengthening Cybersecurity in Health Care Act to require the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) perform consistent evaluations of its cybersecurity systems, and provide biannual reports on its current practices and progress on future safety procedures it is working to implement. He also cosponsored bipartisan legislation to expand the cybersecurity workforce by training veterans for in-demand jobs. Senator King also joined his colleagues in introducing the bipartisan Streamlining Federal Cybersecurity Regulations Act to help address challenges associated with the current patchwork of inconsistent cybersecurity policies between agencies.
Bill to Fund Key Health, Workforce, and Education Programs in Maine Clears Appropriations Committee
WASHINGTON D.C.—U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Chair of the Appropriations Committee, announced that she secured significant funding and provisions for Maine in the Fiscal Year 2026 Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. The bill, which was officially approved by the Senate Appropriations Committee today, now awaits consideration by the full Senate and House.
The measure, which was advanced by a vote of 26-3, provides $197 in discretionary funding.
“To address Maine’s shortage of health care professionals, we must invest in workforce development programs, provide support for students in lower-income communities seeking higher education, and increase access to affordable child care,” said Senator Collins. “This bill would provide support in each of these areas, as well as make targeted investments into life-saving research on Alzheimer’s, cancer, diabetes, and tick-borne diseases. As the Chair of the Appropriations Committee, I will continue to advocate for this funding as the appropriations process moves forward.”
Bill Highlights:
Local Projects: $112.4 million for Congressionally Directed Spending projects in Maine.
Department of Health and Human Services (HHS):
National Institutes of Health (NIH): $48.7 billion for NIH, an increase of $400 million, including:
- $100 million increase for Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias research.
- $150 million increase for the National Cancer Institute, including $28 million for the Childhood Cancer STAR Act.
- $50 million increase for women’s health research.
- $25 million increase for ALS research.
- $19 million increase for rare disease research.
- $10 million increase for diabetes research.
- $6 million increase for mental health research.
Alzheimer’s: In addition to NIH funding, the bill provides $41.5 million for CDC Alzheimer’s disease activities, as well as:
- Language urging the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to reconsider Medicare’s National Coverage Determination policy for FDA-approved Alzheimer’s disease therapies.
- $31.5 million for the Administration for Community Living’s (ACL) Alzheimer’s Disease Program, including $2 million for the National Alzheimer’s Call Center, which provides 24/7/365 telephone support, crisis counseling, care consultation, and referral services for persons with Alzheimer’s disease, their family members, and informal caregivers.
NIH Indirect Costs: Maintains language prohibiting changes to indirect cost rates. In February, Senator Collins announced her opposition to the proposed 15 percent cap on indirect costs, which are usually negotiated between NIH and the grant recipient. In April, Senator Collins chaired the first full Committee hearing with a focus on the importance of biomedical research. At Senator Collins’ invitation, Dr. Hermann Haller, President of the Mount Desert Island Biological Laboratory, provided testimony on how the proposed NIH cap would affect biomedical research occurring in Maine and at institutions across the country. At a June hearing to review the FY 2026 budget request for NIH, Senator Collins questioned NIH Director Jayanta Bhattacharya on the proposed cap on indirect costs.
Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy: $9 million for CDC Muscular Dystrophy activities.
Lyme and Tick-Borne Disease: $27 million for CDC Lyme activities and $64.6 million for vector-borne diseases to support continued implementation of Senator Collins’ Kay Hagan Tick Act. The bill also includes $110 million for NIH Lyme and tick-borne disease research.
Substance Use Disorders: $1.6 billion for the State Opioid Response Grants; $1.9 billion for the Substance Use Prevention, Treatment, and Recovery Services Block Grant; and $145 million for the Rural Communities Opioid Response program to support efforts to combat the opioid epidemic and other substance use disorders. In 2024, there were an estimated 80,391 drug overdose deaths.
Health Workforce Programs: $303.5 million for Title VIII Nursing Workforce programs and $48.2 million for the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) Geriatric workforce education programs, which include the Geriatrics Workforce Enhancement Program and Geriatric Academic Career Awards.
Building Communities of Recovery: $17 million for Building Communities of Recovery grants through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).
SIREN Rural EMS: $13.5 million for SAMHSA’s Rural Emergency Medical Services Training and equipment program.
Lifespan Respite Care: $11 million for ACL’s Lifespan Respite Care Program.
Low Income Home Energy Assistance (LIHEAP): $4 billion for LIHEAP, an increase of $20 million. At a hearing earlier this year on the FY 2026 budget request for HHS, Senator Collins questioned Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. on the proposed elimination of LIHEAP. At the urging of Senator Collins, HHS released more than $400 million in FY 2025 funding for LIHEAP in May. Maine has received $41.6 million in FY 2025 LIHEAP funding.
CDC Dog Importation Rule: Includes report language on CDC’s flawed dog importation rule and calls for CDC to maintain the current pause on implementation of the rule and to restart the rule process. Following an effort led by Senator Collins last year, the CDC announced that it will be making critical revisions to its dog importation rule and delay implementation of a problematic provision.
Early Education: $8.8 billion for the Child Care and Development Block Grant and nearly $12.4 billion for Head Start.
Department of Labor (DOL):
Job Corps: $1.8 billion for Job Corps. Senator Collins has strongly opposed the Administration’s proposed elimination of Job Corps. At a hearing to review the Fiscal Year 2026 budget request for the DOL in May, Senator Collins spoke about Adais Viruet-Torres, a graduate of Loring Job Corps Center and Husson University who overcame homelessness and now works as a nurse practitioner. In April, Senator Collins sent a letter to Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer urging DOL to lift the halt on enrollment at Loring Job Corps Center and Penobscot Job Corps Center. Senators Collins and Jack Reed (D-RI) sent a letter Secretary Chavez-DeRemer requesting DOL to provide information on Job Corps contracts, background check processing, and evaluation plan.
Apprenticeships: $285 million for the Apprenticeship Grant Program.
H-2B Visas: Continued inclusion of bill language to ensure the efficacy of the H-2B program. The bill also includes $60.5 million for Foreign Labor Certification program administration, in part to help with H-2B processing, as well as report language directing the Department of Labor (DOL) to take steps to ensure prompt processing of H-2B visa applications.
DOL Workforce Opportunity for Rural Communities Initiative: $6.5 million for workers in areas served by the Northern Border Regional Commission.
Department of Education:
TRIO: $1.2 billion to support low-income individuals and first-generation college students. At a hearing earlier this year on the FY 2026 budget request for the U.S. Department of Education, Senator Collins questioned Secretary of Education Linda McMahon on the proposed elimination of TRIO programs.
Title I Grants to LEAs: $18.5 billion for Title I Grants to LEAs. Maine is expected to receive approximately $61.7 million in FY 2025 funds through this program.
IDEA Grants to States: $15.2 billion for IDEA Grants to States. Maine is expected to receive approximately $70.8 million in FY 2025 funds through this program.
Perkins Career and Technical Education (CTE) State Grants: $1.4 billion for CTE State Grants. Maine is expected to receive approximately $7 million in FY 2025 funds through this program.
Pell Maximum Award: Maintains the maximum Pell award for a total of $7,395 for the 2026-2027 school year. Maine students are expected to receive approximately $126.6 million in Pell Grants through FY 2025 funds.
Rural Education Achievement Program (REAP): $225 million to support rural school districts.
Special Olympics Unified Champion Schools: $36 million for Special Olympics programs.
Bill to Fund Key Defense Programs in Maine Clears Appropriations Committee
WASHINGTON D.C.—U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Chair of the Appropriations Committee, announced that she secured significant funding and provisions for Maine in the Fiscal Year 2026 Defense Appropriations Act. The bill, which was officially approved by the Senate Appropriations Committee today, now awaits consideration by the full Senate and House.
The measure, which was advanced by a vote of 26-3, provides $851.9 billion in discretionary funding.
“This legislation supports the brave men and women of our armed forces as well as the hardworking Mainers at BIW, PNSY, Pratt & Whitney, and elsewhere across the state, who make invaluable contributions to our nation’s defense,” said Senator Collins. “As the Chair of the Appropriations Committee, I will continue to advance this funding as the appropriations process moves forward.”
Bill Highlights:
Pay increase: Funds a 3.8 percent pay raise for servicemembers and a 10 percent pay raise for junior enlisted personnel.
Bath Iron Works (BIW) Workforce:
- $1.3 billion in advance procurement for a third FY 2027 DDG-51.
- $450 million for large surface combatant shipyard infrastructure investments.
- $181.5 million for cost-to-complete costs of prior year DDG-51s.
Portsmouth Naval Shipyard (PNSY) Workforce: Maintains a requirement that the Navy induct no fewer than 100 apprentices at PNSY and each of the other shipyards.
- $19 billion to fund all executable ship depot maintenance operations at public and private shipyards, including $1.4 billion at PNSY.
- $1.2 billion for the Navy’s Shipyard Infrastructure Optimization Program, including $24.1 million for infrastructure investments at PNSY.
- $153.4 million for Virginia-class submarine spares and repair parts to assist in efficient submarine maintenance at PNSY.
Pratt & Whitney Workforce:
- $280 million split equally between the Navy and the Air Force for F-135 spare parts.
- $282.5 million for F-135 Engine Core Upgrade, which will upgrade the current F-35 engine for all three F-35 variants.
- Bill language prohibiting the integration of any alternative engine into the F-35.
University of Maine (UMaine) Defense Research: $27.5 million for Department of Defense research that could benefit research and development efforts at UMaine, including $10 million to support the continued construction of UMaine’s flagship Additive and Hybrid Manufacturing pilot facility.
Marine Corps Investments: $44 million to support ongoing Marine Corps investments in amphibious, autonomous ground vehicle systems that enhance mobility, survivability, and operational reach in contested environments. One such platform is the Ripsaw Robotic Combat Vehicle, developed by Howe & Howe Technologies—a defense manufacturer based in Waterboro, Maine. Senator Collins has championed this cutting-edge technology as a model for the kind of innovation and industrial capability needed to strengthen the U.S. defense industrial base.
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