$4.5 Million for MDIBL and JAX in Funding Bill Advances and more news
Aug 16, 2025
A QUICK NOTE FROM US:
Each week, we compile briefs and press releases and event images and share them all in one (sometimes very long) story. You may have to click through to read it all
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The Bar Harbor Story is generously sponsored by Acadia Psychiatry.
Chief of Surgery at MDI Hospital Launches Scholarship to Support Nontraditional Nursing Students on Mount Desert Island
BAR HARBOR—For more than 30 years, Dr. Charles “Charlie” Hendricks has been a cornerstone of care at Mount Desert Island Hospital, known for his surgical skill, deep compassion, and unwavering dedication to patients. Now, he and his family are extending that care in a new way, by supporting the next generation of nurses.
The Hendricks Family Nursing Advancement Scholarship will provide up to $10,000 annually to non-traditional students and adult learners pursuing nursing careers. Funds can be used for tuition or living expenses, helping to remove the financial barriers that often stand between students and their career goals.
Through this scholarship, Dr. Hendricks hopes to make it easier for students to enter or advance in the nursing profession, ensuring the island community continues to have the compassionate, skilled caregivers it needs for years to come.
Speaking about the impact he hopes the scholarship will have, Dr. Hendricks explained, “Time and again, over the many years of my practice here in Bar Harbor, I’ve worked with good, motivated people aspiring to transition into a nursing career at later points in their lives. It’s much harder to accomplish once you’ve taken on life’s responsibilities, but I feel when able to make that transition, these folks bring such a breadth of life experience to the profession. So much so, that they make some of the most compassionate and skilled nurses! It has been a long-term goal of mine to help smooth that path in some way. My family is deeply connected to this initiative and community. With the need for nursing staff so acute, the time seemed right to begin this process for the island and hospital we cherish.”
Chrissi Maguire, president and CEO of MDI Hospital speaks highly of this scholarship and Dr. Hendricks, saying, “Charlie embodies skill, compassion, and dedication. He cares deeply for every patient and team member, and inspires everyone around him. The Hendricks Family Nursing Advancement Scholarship reflects his belief in supporting the next generation of caregivers and will make a lasting impact on our island community.”
This scholarship may be used to cover the cost of tuition or other living expenses while attending a nursing program. The Mount Desert Nursing Association will distribute the stipends.
Application forms, details, and submission instructions can be found here.
Interested students should submit their applications by September 15. For more information, head here.
Investing in the Future of Local Healthcare: The Bangor Savings Bank Foundation Gives $100,000 to MDI Hospital’s Campus Improvement Project
BAR HARBOR—Mount Desert Island (MDI) Hospital is honored to celebrate a generous $100,000 gift from The Bangor Savings Bank Foundation in support of its Campus Improvement Project. This significant investment will help fund critical improvements to MDI Hospital’s main campus, ensuring that high-quality, compassionate care remains accessible to the people of the MDI region for generations to come.
“For more than 170 years, Bangor Savings Bank has been committed to helping Maine communities thrive,” said Christina Maguire, President and CEO of MDI Hospital. “This generous gift is not only an investment in our hospital, but also an investment in the health, safety, and resilience of our community. The Bangor Savings Bank Foundation’s support will help us create a modern, patient-focused campus designed to meet the evolving healthcare needs of our families, neighbors, and visitors.”
The Campus Improvement Project, a part of the Building Our Future campaign, will provide essential upgrades to emergency and surgical services, expand access to specialty care, and enhance patient comfort and privacy. Improvements to the hospital’s facilities will give care teams the space, tools, and technology they need to deliver lifesaving care when it matters most.
“Strong, healthy communities require access to high-quality, compassionate care. The Bangor Savings Bank Foundation is proud to support Mount Desert Island Hospital in its work to provide exceptional healthcare and enhance the well-being of the community,” said Gavin Robinson, SVP, Community Relations Manager and Public Finance Officer at Bangor Savings Bank. “As a Foundation, we are committed to investing in the health of our region to help ensure a resilient, vibrant future.”
“This gift is a testament to what can be achieved when community members and organizations come together with a shared vision,” said Michelle Smith, Vice President & Chief Financial Officer of MDI Hospital. “The Bangor Savings Bank Foundation’s generosity will ensure that the healthcare resources our island communities rely on remain strong, sustainable, and resilient, for years to come.”
Members of the public are invited to learn more about the Building Our Future campaign and the hospital’s campus improvements at MDI Hospital’s Community Celebration on Wednesday, August 27, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Bar Harbor Club. Admission is free, but space is limited. To RSVP, please visit mdihospital.org/communitycelebration.
Nearly $2.7 Million for Biomedical Research at JAX Lab Advanced by Senator Collins in Funding Bill
WASHINGTON, D.C.—U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced that she advanced $2,679,000 in Congressionally Directed Spending for The Jackson Laboratory (JAX) in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Appropriations bill. The legislation, which was officially approved by the Senate Appropriations Committee in July, now awaits consideration by the full Senate and House.
“Leading the charge in the advancement of biomedical research, scientists at The Jackson Laboratory are conducting impressive research to improve human health and overcome challenges that affect nearly every family across the country,” said Senator Collins. “This funding would support equipment upgrades, helping JAX continue its groundbreaking research. As the Chair of the Appropriations Committee, I will continue to advocate for this funding as the appropriations process moves forward.”
“I want to thank Senator Collins for supporting our request to significantly strengthen the biomedical imaging and microscopy technology on our Bar Harbor campus. These high-powered tools enable scientists to view the mechanisms of cells at a molecular level, advancing the search for solutions to human disease, including Alzheimer’s disease, cancer, and rare diseases,” said Lon Cardon, President and CEO, The Jackson Laboratory. “Maine’s biomedical community is fortunate that Senator Collins shares our vision for a new era in human health and recognizes the importance of investing in infrastructure to propel Maine’s innovation economy.”
Funding for this project would support upgraded research equipment for biomedical imaging and advanced microscopy at JAX. These technologies would allow researchers to gather critical data using a variety of imaging systems to see biological activity at higher resolution, higher speed, and at a smaller scale than is possible with current equipment.
This funding advanced through the Committee’s markup of the FY 2026 Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Appropriations bill—an important step that now allows the bill to be considered by the full Senate.
In 2021, Congress reinstituted Congressionally Directed Spending. Following this decision, Senator Collins has secured more than $1 billion for hundreds of Maine projects for FY 2022, FY 2023, and FY 2024. As the Chair of the Appropriations Committee, Senator Collins is committed to championing targeted investments that will benefit Maine communities.
Nearly $2 Million for MDI Biological Laboratory Advanced by Senator Collins in Funding Bill
WASHINGTON, D.C.—U.S. Senator Susan Collins, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, announced that she advanced $1,935,000 in Congressionally Directed Spending for the MDI Biological Laboratory in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Appropriations bill. The legislation, which was officially approved by the Senate Appropriations Committee in July, now awaits consideration by the full Senate and House.
“For more than two decades, the MDI Biological Laboratory has offered educational programing and training for students, helping to grow Maine’s STEM workforce,” said Senator Collins. “This funding would support the creation of a facility that would expand the Lab’s capacity to accommodate additional educators, scientists, and students participating in these important training programs. As the Chair of the Appropriations Committee, I will continue to advocate for this funding as the appropriations process moves forward.”
“Senator Collins is a steadfast, visionary champion of Maine’s growing bioscience ecosystem,” said Hermann Haller, M.D., President of MDI Biological Laboratory. “This measure would expose more Maine students and educators to cutting-edge biomedical research and help them take their place in a biomedical revolution that is transforming human health.”
This funding would support the MDI Biological Laboratory’s efforts to construct a Center for Advancing Science Education and Entrepreneurship on its Bar Harbor campus. This facility would provide a central location for participating educators and students from throughout Maine to undergo program orientation, receive career counseling, explore internship opportunities, attend lectures and participate in career training sessions.
This funding advanced through the Committee’s markup of the FY 2026 Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Appropriations bill—an important step that now allows the bill to be considered by the full Senate.
In 2021, Congress reinstituted Congressionally Directed Spending. Following this decision, Senator Collins has secured more than $1 billion for hundreds of Maine projects for FY 2022, FY 2023, and FY 2024. As the Chair of the Appropriations Committee, Senator Collins is committed to championing targeted investments that will benefit Maine communities.
Public Service Announcement – Beware of Municipality Payment Scams
BAR HARBOR—The Town of Bar Harbor has received reports of fraudulent calls, emails, and messages claiming to be from town staff/departments requesting payment via wire transfer or other unusual methods.
Please be advised:
- The Town of Bar Harbor will never request payment by wire transfer, cryptocurrency, gift cards, or third-party money transfer apps.
- If you receive any suspicious request for payment, do not provide personal or financial information.
- Please verify any questionable communications by contacting Town staff directly at (207)-288-4098.
Your safety and financial security are our priority. Stay alert, and help spread the word to friends, family, and neighbors.
NEW TRAFFIC PATTERN – CROOKED ROAD AND NORWAY DRIVE CONSTRUCTION ZONE AND DETOUR
BAR HARBOR—A new three-way STOP is now in place at the intersection of Crooked Road and Norway Drive. The new STOP sign is located at the Crooked Road leg of the intersection. All users approaching this intersection are now required to stop due to the Crooked Road closure and ongoing construction.
A new all-way STOP is now in place at the intersection of Norway Drive and Old Norway Drive. The new traffic pattern applies to road users on Norway Drive, who now are required to stop at the detour intersection of Old Norway Drive.
New stops signs are in place and advance warning trailers are in place notifying road users of this change.
These changes were made to balance the needs of moving traffic safely through the detour route and to enhance construction worker safety. Thank you for your patience during construction. Please contact 288-4681 if you have any questions.
COA Academic Hub Wins National Award for Green Design
BAR HARBOR—The College of the Atlantic Davis Center for Human Ecology is recognized as one of the most sustainable and forward-thinking buildings in the country by the American Institute of Architects (AIA).
The center, which blends innovation with ecological responsibility, is the winner of a 2025 AIA COTE Top Ten Award, which celebrates design excellence in sustainability, resilience, and innovation.
The 29,000-square-foot building was designed by architects Susan T Rodriguez | Architecture · Design and OPAL, and officially opened in fall 2021, ushering in the college’s 50th academic year.
“The Davis Center for Human Ecology reinforces a heightened awareness of the unique ecology of the site and surrounding island community,” the AIA Committee on the Environment writes. “Weaving together the interdisciplinary study of human ecology with Passive House standards and biogenic materials, the building forms a dynamic new academic environment that amplifies an immersive and sustainable learning experience at the intersection of land and sea.”
Perched on a rocky promontory along Frenchman Bay, the Center for Human Ecology is COA’s newest, greenest academic space on campus. Design highlights include:
- The building meets the newly released national definition for Zero Emissions Buildings, or ZEB, a Biden-Harris Administration initiative which OPAL Management Partner, Timothy Lock, collaborated on and helped facilitate.
- Designed to the stringent German Passive House standard of energy efficiency and indoor air quality, it consumes 90 percent less energy than a comparable code-compliant building.
- Passive solar gain from south-facing glass mitigates heating demand during Maine’s long, cold winters. A high-capacity energy recovery ventilation system provides a constant flow of tempered fresh air.
- The design extensively uses low-embodied carbon and locally sourced materials—including a nearly all-wood structure and wood fiber insulation—which radically reduce its lifecycle carbon footprint, effectively neutralizing the environmental impact of its construction.
- The building accommodates art studios, offices, teaching and collaboration spaces, science labs, and a greenhouse for programming in zoology, botany, chemistry, geology, general science, fine art, and media.
- The building design maximizes views of the ocean and frames an open green used for ceremonies and outdoor activities.
The 2025 COTE Top Ten program is in its 28th year and highlights projects that meet the AIA Committee on the Environment’s rigorous criteria for social, economic, and ecological value. The program was founded on the idea that sustainability is essential to design excellence and vice versa. The COTE Top Ten has become the industry’s best-known award program recognizing innovative projects integrating exemplary performance with compelling design.
Susan T Rodriguez | Architecture · Design was founded in 2017, combining more than 30 years of design leadership with a passionate belief in the power of architecture to affect change and improve the quality of life for all. The studio, a New York City certified Women-Owned Business Enterprise and federally certified Women-Owned Small Business, builds upon an award-winning body of work recognized internationally for design excellence and contributing to the vitality of cities, landscapes and the communities and institutions it serves. Central to the practice is an emphasis on addressing pressing issues in contemporary society through design that promotes the wellbeing of communities and the long-term sustainability of the environment.
OPAL was founded in 2008, as the architecture half of a groundbreaking design/build company, and launched as an independent architecture firm in 2019. Based in Belfast, OPAL is one of only 15 firms nationwide to meet AIA’s 2030 Challenge which requires a 80% reduction of operational carbon from baseline across all projects. OPAL has spearheaded the Passive House movement in North America.
The center has now received both of the top honors offered by the AIA—the 2025 COTE Top Ten Award and the 2024 Architecture Award.
Remembering Cody van Heerden at Artemis Gallery
NORTHEAST HARBOR—The late Cody van Heerden was a pillar of the College of the Atlantic community. She joined the Board of Trustees in 2005, and in 2017 she completed an M.Phil in human ecology with a focus on institutional economics. Along the way, Cody mentored students, hosted events, and shared her insights with faculty and staff.
In 2019, the college announced a new faculty chair, the Cody van Heerden Chair in Economics & Quantitative Social Sciences, in her honor. The chair was held by professor Davis Taylor until his retirement, and is now held by professor Hien Nguyen.
Artemis Gallery was founded in 2012 by Cody and Deirdre Swords. We’re grateful to Deirdre and Artemis for honoring Cody and supporting the college with this fantastic art show. Please stop by if you are on the island.
THE MOUNT DESERT ISLAND COMMITTEE FOR PEACE TO BE DISCUSSED
MOUNT DESERT—Join us at the Jesup Library on August 28 at 6:30 p.m. for a discussion with University of Maine lecturer and MDI Historical Society Collections Manager Patrick Callaway about his 2024 Chebacco article, ‘The Mount Desert Island Committee for Peace, 1962-1966.’
Historian David Farber wrote, “images of the 1960s still haunt us, still anger us, still entrance us, still puzzle us. Even those who came of age long after the ‘sixties’ share the collective memories….”
The 1960s represented a fundamental reassessment of what the contours of American civil society could —or should —become. Issues of war and peace, represented by the Cold War between the United States and the Soviet Union, and the war in Vietnam, competed for attention with the Civil Rights movement, which compelled people to re-examine American society in uncomfortable ways. Organizations were formed to manage these efforts and to collaborate between communities, states, and regions. The Committee for Peace on Mount Desert Island was one example of a trend occurring in communities nationwide, which sought to resolve these issues through calls for peace and understanding.
Geographically distant and socially isolated are not synonymous terms. Although Mount Desert Island is far distant from Vietnam or the more famous scenes of the Civil Rights movement, islanders were deeply engaged with the broader social conversation. Part of this engagement was encouraging education, debate, and advocating for change. The Mount Desert Island Committee for Peace represents the culmination of these organizational efforts. The Mount Desert Island Committee for Peace reflected the challenges and opportunities of the 1960s. The great social movements of the era, and the ever-present potential for world war, provided opportunities for citizen groups to voice their support (or lack of support) for causes far beyond their local area.
This program is a collaboration between the MDI Historical Society and the Jesup Memorial Library. It will be offered in person or via Zoom. To register, go to:https://www.jesuplibrary.org/events/peacehistory
Dr. Patrick Callaway is a lecturer in the Department of History at the University of Maine and the Collections Manager at the MDI Historical Society. He earned his Ph.D. in Canadian-American history at the University of Maine, and was a Fulbright exchange student to Dalhousie University in Halifax. His research focuses on the economic connections between the United States and British North America in the late 1700s-early 1800s.
Collaboration and Creation at Coffee & Conversation
BAR HARBOR — Dan Farrenkopf ’93, co-founder of the concrete pottery and hand-turned garden vessel studio Lunaform, and longtime publisher Jan Hartman discuss the creative process—from the inception of an idea to the completion of the final work—in the next installment of College of the Atlantic’s Coffee & Conversation series.
“Creating Craft and Print” takes place August 19 at 9:30 a.m. at the Davis Center for Human Ecology and online via livestream. Registration is required at coa.edu/coffeeandconversation.
Farrenkopf is a designer and founder of Lunaform, well known for their handcrafted, sculptural containers. He completed an architectural internship in St. Petersburg, Russia, and designed his first passive solar home in Sullivan. His thesis focused on recreating historic garden pottery, leading to decades of commissions and collaborations with landscape architects and artists. Lunaform has partnered on major installations including Song/Land/Sea WAI Water Warning and Nature Sanctuary. Dan was also a driving force behind the Schoodic International Sculpture Symposium, helping place public art in more than 30 Maine communities.
Hartman is a veteran editor, publishing strategist, and founder of JAN HARTMAN BOOKS, with more than 30 years of experience shaping over 200 titles across disciplines and genres. For 15 years, she played a key role in editorial and business development at Princeton Architectural Press. As a senior editor, Hartman pioneered new acquisition strategies and expanded the press’s catalog in garden design, craft, sustainability, wellness, and lifestyle. She collaborated with mission-driven nonprofits such as the Beatrix Farrand Society, the Beverly Willis Architecture Foundation, and the Historic New Orleans Collection.
In 2020, she launched JAN HARTMAN BOOKS to work more closely with authors, publishers, and institutions in creating books that inspire, inform, and enchant. Her studio reflects a deeply rooted sense of place—shaped by the geography of Maine, the design legacy of New England, and the enduring values of craftsmanship and ecological thought.
The Coffee & Conversation series features discussions between invited guests and College of the Atlantic faculty members and trustees. The series hosts authors, entrepreneurs, scholars, artists, researchers, thought leaders, and more. Sessions are one hour long, and include a Q&A session. Coffee and pastries are served. Coffee & Conversation events are free and open to the public, but pre-registration is required for both in person and online participation.
Secret Lives and Intimate Writings of Edna St. Vincent Millay
By Carolyn Gage and directed by Jodi Baker
BAR HARBOR—The Bar Harbor Historical Society is proud to present Carolyn Gage’s Secret Lives and Intimate Writings of Edna St. Vincent Millay, directed by Jodi Baker. The dramatic reading will take place on the piazza of La Rochelle, located at 127 West Street in Bar Harbor, on Tuesday, August 26th, at 4:30 pm. The performance is free and open to the public; however, reserved seating is encouraged.
This summer, the Bar Harbor Historical Society is sponsoring a series of dramatic readings with local actors, presenting the secret lives of four Maine writers through an exploration of their writings about their same-sex relationships, including letters, poems, and memoirs. The readings celebrate Maine history and culture and broaden our understanding of some of our most famous authors.
A young “Vincent Millay,” as she insisted her classmates call her, grew up in poverty in Camden, Maine, with her mother and her two sisters. Her poetic talents were on display at a local inn, and summer visitor Caroline Dow, dazzled by her brilliance, decided to become her patron, financing her education and pulling strings among networks of powerful women to get Millay into Vassar. When Millay’s relationships with female students threatened scandal, her patron presented Millay with a cruel choice that would change the course of her life.
For more information and to reserve your seat, visit www.barharborhistorical.org/events
WITBIT POOL OBSTACLE COURSE
MDNA Educational Talk: Navigating Orthopedic Surgery with Confidence
NORTHEAST HARBOR— In August, the Mount Desert Nursing Association will offer a free educational talk at the Northeast Harbor Public Library.
On Tuesday, August 19 from 1:00-2:00 p.m., in “The Road to Recovery: Navigating Orthopedic Surgery with Confidence” learn from physical therapist Amanda Jacobs PTA and occupational therapist Jim Cotroneo OT, about essential steps to take before, during, and after orthopedic surgery—whether you’re facing a knee, hip, or shoulder replacement. Learn how to get ready for surgery, what to expect with home care and recovery, and practical tips to help you regain mobility and confidence post-operation. This presentation is ideal for patients, caregivers, and anyone looking to understand the journey of orthopedic surgery and rehabilitation. All are welcome and the event is free to all.
The Mount Desert Nursing Association (MDNA) is a nonprofit organization providing in-home nursing care, physical therapy, and occupational therapy to the people of Mount Desert Island, Trenton, and Lamoine. This year they celebrate their 76th year of caring for homebound patients. Last year, MDNA made over 4,800 visits and loaned medical and adaptive equipment from their Loan Closet to over 160 residents. MDNA is committed to serving all our neighbors, regardless of ability to pay. For more information, visit www.mountdesertnursing.org.
For program-related questions, call 207-276-5184, or megan@mountdesertnursing.org.
For venue-related questions, call the Library at 207-276-3333 or email ztaibi@nehlibrary.org. For the Print Calendar: Tuesday, August 19, 1:00-2:00 p.m.
Program: “The Road to Recovery: Navigating Orthopedic Surgery with Confidence” 1-2 p.m., Northeast Harbor Public Library. Sponsored by Mount Desert Nursing Association. 276-5184 or megan@mountdesertnursing.org
CYGNET’S NEW EXHIBIT
Cygnet Gallery’s current August Exhibit featuring new work by Sharyn Paul Brusie, Patty Corcoran, Dorothy Feeley, Julie Spahr, Rick Hamilton, Matthew Russ is up until August 31. The Gallery is open Tuesday through Saturday 10:00-5:00 and by appointment.
8th Annual Paul Hammond Lecture
Dr. Jules Lobel: The Philosophical Underpinnings and Critiques of the Judicial Philosophy of Originalism
Friday, August 29, 2025 at 7:00 p.m.
BAR HARBOR—On Friday, August 29 at 7 p.m., the Jesup Memorial Library will host professor Jules Lobel for a lecture entitled “The Philosophical Underpinnings and Critiques of the Judicial Philosophy of Originalism.” The Paul Hammond Memorial Lecture, in honor of the late Paul Hammond, brings a speaker for a talk at the Jesup that explores philosophy for a lay audience. Hammond, the son of Debby and Scott Hammond, grew up on MDI and was a professor of philosophy who passed away in 2015. He was passionate about discussing ideas and current events, as well as promoting well-reasoned and logical arguments and debate.
Dr. Lobel’s talk will provide an understanding of the underlying philosophical principles of the originalist jurisprudence that now dominates the Supreme Court. It will explore some of the Court’s key cases – overturning Roe v. Wade, on gun owners rights – to illustrate the philosophical principles the majority uses to justify their decisions. It will then critique that philosophy and using the Court’s own decisions, as well as my experience challenging governmental actions based on “original meaning,” the talk will discuss a philosophical approach to using the law to achieve justice.
Jules Lobel is the Bessie Mckee Walthour Chaired Professor at the University of Pittsburgh Law School where he teaches Constitutional Law. He is the author of Success Without Victory, Lost Legal Battles and the Long Road to Justice in America (NYU 2003), and the co-author with Professor David Cole of the award winning book Less Safe, Less Free, Why America is Losing the War on Terror (New Press 2007). He has authored or co-authored numerous articles in academic journals. Most recently, he has published “Participatory Litigation: A New Framework for Impact Lawyering,” published in Stanford Law Review. He was formerly the President of the Center for Constitutional Rights (CCR). On behalf of CCR, he argued the case of Wilkinson v. Austin in the United States Supreme Court and was lead counsel in the Ashker v. Brown case, challenging the prolonged solitary confinement of hundreds of prisoners in California as cruel and unusual punishment prohibited by the United States Constitution and International Law. Both cases resulted in hundreds of prisoners being released from prolonged solitary confinement and placed in the general population. In the 1980s and 1990s, Lobel litigated a number of important cases challenging Presidential power in foreign policy matters to act without or in derogation of Congressional authorization, and his book Success Without Victory is based on those cases.
Discover the inspiration and process behind portraiture with artist Judy Taylor
SOUTHWEST HARBOR—Have you ever wondered what’s behind the making of a portrait and how it came to be? Hear from Judy Taylor on Tuesday, August 26 in-person and online from 5:30-6:30 p.m. in her lecture “The Story Behind The Portrait” at the Southwest Harbor Public Library. Judy will share the story behind some of the great portraits in art history; what they inform us about the subject and how by studying them it has informed her own work. She will also discuss some of her recent portrait commissions and how she structures the painting, the process of commissioning a portrait, and the interesting people behind the curtain.
Two Day En Plein Air Workshop with Christine Lafuente
Saturday – Sunday, 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM, August 16 – 17
TOWN HILL—Join Christine Lafuente and experience the magic of Mount Desert Island. This plein air oil-painting workshop will include a basic review of outdoor set-up, palette organization, composition, and atmospheric color and “hands-on” time in the field with individual instruction at select locations on MDI.
The half-day sessions provide you the opportunity to work in the mornings with the instructor, leaving you the afternoons to continue to work independently and process the day’s lesson. We encourage participants to pack lunch, water and snacks for when they are in the field.
ArtWaves can supply easels and basic supplies. If you’re interested in attending this workshop, but you have concerns about supplies and materials, please email office@artwavesmdi.org.
AUTHOR TALK
SOUTHWEST HARBOR—Bestselling author and Southwest Harbor summer resident Christina Baker Kline (Orphan Train, The Exiles) and acclaimed novelist Anne Burt (The Dig) join forces for a gripping new thriller, Please Don’t Lie (Thomas & Mercer; September 1, 2025). The Southwest Harbor Public Library will host both authors on Saturday, August 30, 1:30–2:30 p.m., for a conversation about their creative process, the making of Please Don’t Lie, and the experience of co-writing a high-stakes literary thriller. Books will be available for purchase and for signing.
Marine Geophysicist To Lecture On Greenhouse and Icehouse States
NORTHEAST HARBOR—On Wednesday, August 27 at 5:30 p.m. the Northeast Harbor Library will host marine geophysicist and international educator Mike Coffin, PhD for a lecture titled “Greenhouse & Icehouse Worlds”.
Earth’s climate over the ~4.54 billion year history of the planet has fluctuated between two primary states: greenhouse and icehouse Earth. Greenhouse Earth is characterized by no permanent glaciers; icehouse Earth by permanent glaciers. Coffin investigates interactions between the oceanic environment and the solid Earth, and will discuss scientific evidence for the two states, focusing mainly on the current icehouse Earth.
After growing up in Bangor, Mike Coffin was educated at Dartmouth College (AB) and Columbia University (MA, MPhil, PhD). Ever since, he has pursued an international career that reflects the boundless nature of the global ocean, leading or participating in 37 blue-water research expeditions focused mainly in the Southern, Pacific, and Indian oceans.
Register at nehlibrary.org/events or by calling 207-276-3333.
MOUNT DESERT FIRE DEPARTMENT OPEN HOUSE
COME DANCE
REAL ESTATE
BAR HARBOR
- Michael A. Leighton, Bar Harbor to R.L. White & Son, Hulls Cove, land with buildings and improvements.
- Dan Thomassen and Bonnie Tai, Hulls Cove to Katie Rodgers and Darin Rodgers, Bar Harbor, as joint tenants, land with buildings and improvements.
- P. Elizabeth Hurley, Hulls Cove to Jacob M. Smith and Hailey A. Bondy, Bar Harbor, as joint tenants, land.
- Cough Family Real Estate Trust, Bar Harbor to Christina Walker and David Meyers, Bar Harbor, as joint tenants, land with improvements.
- Deborah A. Parsons and Travis B. Tripp, Bar Harbor to Parsons Family Real Estate Trust, Bar Harbor, land with buildings.
- Deborah A. Parsons, Bar Harbor to Parsons Family Real Estate Trust, Bar Harbor, land with buildings.
CRANBERRY ISLES
- Richard Haydock Irrevocable Trust, Baldwin, N.Y., to Karen Haycock, Baldwin, N.Y., land with buildings and improvements.
MOUNT DESERT
- David Scull III and Ebony Sinclair Nicolas Scull, Honolulu, Hawaii, to NEH Joy Ride LLC, Falmouth, land with improvements.
- Estate of Rebecca Taylor Brown to Frederick T. Brown, Arlington, Va., land with buildings and improvements.
- Estate of Rebecca Taylor Brown to Frederick T.Brown, Arlington, Va., land with buildings and improvements.
- Estate of Rebecca Taylor Brown to Thomas T. Brown, Northeast Harbor, land with buildings and improvements.
- Estate of Rebecca Taylor Brown to Thomas T. Brown, Northeast Harbor, land with buildings and improvements.
- Brent Gardiner and Samantha Gardiner, Green Cove Springs, Fla., to Downeast Deckhouse LLC, Kennebunk, land with buildings and improvements.
HANCOCK COUNTY COURT
- Paul Colbeth, 45, Bass Harbor. Operating while license suspended or revoked at Bar Harbor, Feb. 12, 2025. $250.
- Ashley Crystal Conners, 37, North Anson. Domestic violence assault at Bar Harbor, July 19, 2024. Dismissed. Obstructing report of crime at Bar Harbor, July 19, 2024. Dismissed.
- Patrick Joseph Keay, 64, Bar Harbor. Violating condition of release at Bar Harbor, Nov. 2, 2024. Jail 48 hours.
- Patrick Joseph Keay, 64, Linden, Va. OUI (alcohol) at Bar Harbor, Oct. 22, 2024. $500. License suspended 150 days.
- Richelle A. Merchant, 36, Hancock. OUI (alcohol) at Bar Harbor, Aug. 10, 2024. $850. License suspended 150 days.
- Michael Modeen, 63, Bar Harbor. Criminal threatening at Bar Harbor, Jan. 29, 2025. Dismissed. Disorderly conduct, offensive words, gestures at Bar Harbor, Jan. 29, 2025. $500.
- Kellee M. Moores, 23, Bar Harbor. Permitting attachment of false plates at Bar Harbor, Feb. 14, 2025. $100
- Wyatt T. Muse, 42, Monticello, Ill. OUI (alcohol) at Bar Harbor, Aug. 16, 2024. $850. License suspended 150 days.
- Lucas P. Turner, 45, Bangor. Failure to register vehicle within 30 days at Bar Harbor, Aug. 26, 2024. Dismissed.
- Andrew Smith, 45, Tremont. Operating while license suspended or revoked at Bar Harbor, March 7, 2025. Dismissed
- Adam Gene Lawson, 48, Trenton. OUI (alcohol) at Trenton, Aug. 30, 2024. $850. License suspended 150 days. Endangering the welfare of a child at Trenton, Aug. 30, 2024. Dismissed
- Bruce Germon, 64, Trenton. OUI (alcohol) at Trenton, Dec. 3, 2024. Dismissed.
- Robert W. Sellers III, 40, Trenton. Harassment by telephone at Lamoine, Jan. 7, 2025. Filed without costs.
- Joshua White, 45, Bar Harbor. Illegal possession of firearm at Swan’s Island, Nov. 20, 2024. Department of Corrections two years, all but 30 days suspended. Probation two years
- Gregory J. Harper, 41, Seal Cove. Violating condition of release at Tremont, Jan. 7, 2025. Dismissed.
- Gregory J. Harper, 41, Seal Cove. Domestic violence assault at Tremont, Dec. 7, 2024. Dismissed. Disorderly conduct, fighting at Tremont, Dec. 7, 2024. $150.
- Gregory J. Harper, 41, Seal Cove. Violating condition of release at Tremont, Jan. 8, 2025. Dismissed.
STATE RELEASES
Upcoming Woodland Tour for Spruce Budworm
Spruce Budworm Tour
Date: August 20, 2025
Time: 4:30 PM to 6:30 PM
Location: Sly Brook Rd, Fort Kent, Maine 04743
The Maine Forest Service and Maine Woodland Owners are hosting a free spruce budworm woodland tour to compare treated and untreated areas for spruce budworm. Join experts in spruce budworm and forestry to learn about the growing spruce budworm populations and the upcoming treatment cost share program for landowners in 2026. No registration required.
Join us for door prizes, Forester and Pesticide credits, and an opportunity to chat directly with experts. Parking will be available on the dirt road and the tour will start right on the nearby paved road.
A staffed information table will be available for those who want to stop in and just learn the basics. Rain date for this tour is 8/25/25 and updates will be posted on the Spruce Budworm Task Force Events website.
Contact: 207-287-2431 or email foresthealth@maine.gov
2025 Maine Hire-A-Vet Campaign Kicks Off Thursday
MAINE – The 2025 Maine Hire-A-Vet Campaign kicks off this Thursday, August 14, at the Augusta Civic Center! Maine’s annual campaign is a statewide effort with the goal of at least 100 employers hiring at least 100 veterans and military family members during a 100-day period.
The kickoff will be followed by monthly in-person hiring events throughout the state:
- August 14, 2025 | 10:30 am to 3:00 pm | Augusta Civic Center
- September 25, 2025 | 11:00 am to 3:00 pm | University of Maine-Orono
- October 16, 2025 | 11:00 am to 3:00 pm | Maine Sports Arena, Saco
- November 13, 2025 | 11:00 am to 3:00 pm | University of Maine-Farmington
While the campaign is focused on veterans and their families, these events are open to ALL jobseekers!
The Maine Hire-A-Vet campaign provides support and resources to connect veterans with employers through a network of state and federal agencies, resources and nonprofits, education on military language and culture, recruiting and hiring assistance, and recognition for the hiring and advancement of veterans and military family members. The results of last year’s campaign can be found here.
Learn more at www.myworksourcemaine.gov/events/maines-hire-vet-campaign-2025
Get ready for hunting season with the latest hunting lawbook!
Plan your next hunting trip with updated season dates and bag limits, legal hunting hours, and new laws. Being a responsible user of the Maine outdoors means staying informed of, and complying with, the current laws and rules.
It’s easy, just visit mefishwildlife.com/laws
2025-2026 Summary of Maine Hunting Laws (PDF)
Maine DHHS Alerts EBT Cardholders to Take Precautions Amid Reported Multi-State Benefit Theft
AUGUSTA—The Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is alerting EBT cardholders of the reported theft of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits this week. So far, this has impacted approximately 300 Maine households, stealing approximately $76,000. This incident is still unfolding, and the number of households affected may increase.
DHHS’ Office for Family Independence (OFI) has identified benefits are being stolen via fraudulent point of sale devices registered in New York, California, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey, though as the situation evolves other fraudulent terminals may be identified in other locations. OFI is aware that a number of other states are also being impacted by this mass theft of benefits. Upon learning of the theft from affected clients, OFI immediately contacted the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food and Nutrition Service (USDA FNS) to block impacted terminals at the known locations and to conduct an investigation. Maine’s EBT vendor, Fidelity Information Services (FIS), has also engaged its fraud investigation team.
“This incident appears to be the result of large-scale theft involving stolen card numbers and PINs — sometimes referred to as ‘cloning’ — rather than a localized skimming device,” said DHHS’ OFI Director Ian Yaffe. “While this type of fraud and theft have occurred in other states, this is the first time we have seen it at this scale in Maine. We are working with the federal government and our EBT vendor, Fidelity Information Services, to do all we can to prevent further theft of benefits from Maine people who rely on SNAP to supplement their monthly food budget. We urge all Maine SNAP recipients to change their EBT card PIN and go to the Pinetree Card website or the ebtEDGE app to enable personal protections on their cards.”
Impact to Clients
SNAP benefits help low-income individuals and families afford food by supplementing their monthly grocery budget. The monthly assistance supports a household’s food budget, reducing hunger and food insecurity. In July 2025, around $29 million in SNAP benefits were provided to approximately 173,000 Mainers.
The impacted households had recently received their August SNAP benefits and now face having no food assistance until September. Under federal rules, stolen SNAP benefits may not be replaced.
How to Protect EBT Benefits
OFI is proactively contacting affected clients where possible and working to order new EBT cards for these households. EBT cardholders are encouraged to take steps to protect their accounts, including:
- Use the Lock/Unlock Feature in the ebtEDGE app or online to temporarily block access to benefits when not in use.
- Block Out-of-State or Online Transactions if these are not regularly needed.
- Regularly Review Account Activity to spot suspicious transactions quickly.
- Change the PIN Now and Regularly: PINs can be updated at any time, including right before issuance. Frequent PIN updates can help protect accounts. Updating a PIN can be done through FIS’s automated system by calling 1-800-477-7428.
- Choose a Strong PIN: Avoid simple PINs that are easy to guess like 0000,1234, or birthdates.
These actions must be initiated by clients themselves. For security reasons, OFI cannot make these changes on a cardholder’s behalf, whether in person or by phone.
DHHS will continue to work closely with FNS, law enforcement, and its EBT vendor to stop the theft and protect Maine families.
For More Information
If you need support using ebtEDGE cardholder portal website or mobile application, you can call FIS at 1-800-477-7428. For detailed instructions on locking/unlocking their card and blocking out-of-state or online use the ebtEDGE User Guide for Cardholder Portal and Mobile Application (PDF)
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