Winona Elmore just opened her dream shop in Rockport, a farmhouse decor boutique called Gathering Thyme, opposite of Midcoast Recreation Center on Route 90. Her grand opening was Saturday, February 6.
“I had a vision of a place where people could come to find beautiful things for their home,” said Elmore, whose business is a family venture with help renovating the shop from her husband, her daughter, and her son-in-law.
Elmore’s shop is filled with dried flowers, wreaths, and bundles of herbs... Read more
Midcoast Entrepreneurs: Bright Ideas, Creativity and Enterprise
Small and micro business owners around the United States are struggling to stay afloat and find a sense of normalcy amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
From restaurateurs to artists, and everything in between, the Midcoast is beaming with creatives and innovators in all mediums.
Since the inception of PenBayPilot.com, a collective goal of our writers has been to spotlight entrepreneurs and their creativity. Now, we have established a hub for our stories about the Midcoast’s entrepreneurs to permanently reside.
We encourage our readers to support as many local business owners as possible across as many industries as you can. Our neighbors need our support this holiday season, so please browse through this hub for potential holiday gifts or places to eat.
Additionally, business owners will find resources in the sidebar (to the right on desktop; at the bottom on mobile).
Keep checking back as we load more stories from our archive spanning nearly a decade into this hub, and as we publish new stories ahead of the 2020 Holiday Season.
Elev8 Energy & Nutrition opens next to Hybrid Fitness in Warren
New healthy beverage company aims to boost immunity and health
WARREN—With the deepest part of winter upon us and a heightened societal need to stay healthy during a pandemic, a new energy drink bar is set to open in Warren.
Elev8 Energy and Nutrition, owned and operated by Hunter Grindle with assistance from his operations manager, Richard Eaton, plans on opening the first week of February.
Grindle, who also owns Hybrid Fitness, a fitness center in the same building, came up with the idea of a new energy drink bar, after brainstorming with Eaton, one of... Read more
Ryan Jackson leads a series of virtual adult improv classes through the Farnsworth Art Museum
How improv gives permission to play in an ultra-serious world
ROCKLAND—When creative improvisational master Ryan Jackson gets down to serious business, there are going to be a lot of laughs.
The Rockland native is hosting a series of virtual improv workshops for adults through the Farnsworth Art Museum through April. The class, titled “Improv Reprise! Making it up as you go with Ryan Jackson”, is meant to loosen people up and get them to experience new sides of themselves.
A graduate of the University of Maine with a bachelor’s degree in theater,... Read more
In Your Own Words LLC sells vintage photograph stationery to empower HIV+ Mainers
Maine couple creates Valentine’s Day cards for ‘affectionate men and women’
The typical mainstream Valentine’s Day cards you find in supermarkets and stores and on TV commercials generally present a heterosexual angle to the holiday, which doesn’t represent other populations in love. One Greene, Maine couple, Lewis Alessio, and his husband, Jim Shaffer, have been producing creative variations of vintage photograph stationery that tell another visual story.
The couple created In Your Own Words LLC in 2013 to creatively augment vintage photographs into cards and... Read more
Owners Gabriela Acero and Derek Richard turn the Drouthy Bear into new restaurant
wolfpeach, a new chophouse with a Maine twist, soon to open in Camden
CAMDEN—Many wondered what would become of the classic Scottish pub Drouthy Bear after owners Andrew and Shannon Stewart announced last May that the COVID-19 virus restrictions on their beloved pub had forced them to permanently close.The Midcoast community will be happy to know that the building has been purchased and is currently being renovated by Camden newcomers Gabriela Acero and Derek Richard to become a new restaurant. With a new aesthetic and flair, the restaurant will be called... Read more
‘Sport is a place that demands a person be absolutely physically, mentally and emotionally involved’
Montville artist Leslie Woods captures ‘strength, beauty and attitude’ of sports
MONTVILLE — Leslie Woods, a Montville artist, has a unique approach to why she paints sport figures that encourages viewers of her work to place themselves within the portrait.
“Sport is where people can be totally absorbed physically, mentally and emotionally, where people function at the essence of being human,” Woods states on her website. “I paint figures in sport because our bodies are meant to move and each sport challenges with different actions. My designs interpret the strength,... Read more
in business
New Rockland business, Affinity Nutrition: ‘Nourish your body, achieve optimum health’
ROCKLAND — Affinity Nutrition, a new nutritional business, opened Friday, Jan. 22 in the Rockland Plaza, edged between Hannaford and Planet Fitness in the space formerly occupied by Green with Envy Hair Salon. The owners aim to provide nourishment to Rockland and the greater Midcoast community.
The business is owned by Jessica Ripley, of Washington, and Lisa Ladd, of Owls Head, both longtime Midcoast residents with a myriad of business experience in both the for-profit and nonprofit sectors... Read more
Corinna Whitehill started the service while working for Mid-Coast Connector
Corie’s Rides helps community with personal taxi service
WARREN—It’s been just over a year that Corinna Whitehill started her personal cab company called Corie’s Rides. It’s a service that has been fundamental to the Midcoast community in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic when people are at risk of losing their homes and their cars.
Whitehill got her start in the driving business as the owner and a driver for Mid-Coast Connector, a MaineCare non-emergency transportation broker. It’s a service she still operates, along with eight cars and drivers... Read more
Projected opening date: Jan. 16
Butter Up Cakes, all-gluten-free bakery, cafe, brews and ciders opens in Damariscotta
DAMARISCOTTA—Faced with the food limitations necessary for their own family, a baker and her husband have decided to open a completely gluten-free bakery and cafe at 77 Main Street in downtown in mid-January named Butter Up Cakes.
Candice and Patrick Brady have three children.
“Two of our children have celiac disease, are lactose intolerant and can’t have high fructose corn syrup, and my husband is the same way,” said Candice. “So, I make all of their food from scratch, anyway. We decided to... Read more
‘I have always been a creative person, and I always feel the need to create’
Northport artist Jason Thurston crafts ‘Shell Ink’ ornaments
NORTHPORT — Jason Thurston is a Northport artist, using his drawing skills to draw Midcoast scenery on shells.
The idea to create art on shells came a few years ago when Thurston’s wife, Hana, was in the process of making Christmas wreathes to generate some additional holiday income.
“We had some clam shells sitting around, and she said, ‘Hey, draw something on those shells. They'd make nice ornaments.’ I think I drew a random lighthouse, the Mount Battie Tower and a lobster boat,” recalled... Read more
Shop Local Spotlight
Northport artist refinishes old furniture with enchanting detail
NORTHPORT—Back in April, The Atlantic magazine wrote a story about how making old-fashioned crafts during the pandemic could ease anxiety. Millions of crafters took that to heart, and with the COVID-19 virus still raging on nine months later, many burgeoning creators have taken to Instagram, YouTube, and other online resources to make something beautiful.
One such artist, Shelby Connolly, from Northport, found her niche that way. After purchasing secondhand furniture such as dressers, trunks,... Read more
In business
Meet Northport’s up-and-coming fashion mogul: ‘The Golf Boy’
NORTHPORT — The next time your child or grandchild asks you for sports apparel, it might not be of their favorite sports team. Rather, the apparel might be coming from the online clothing store, TheGolfBoy.com, launched by 11-year-old Jason Thurston, Jr., of Northport.
Thurston put his newfound entrepreneurial skills to work when browsing options for golf clothing and realized the options were not very fun, or diverse, for children and adults.
An avid golfer with his own golf simulator,... Read more
In business
Hana Thurston’s cakes are delicious art masterpieces
NORTHPORT — Hana Thurston has been baking cakes for the last eight years, and formally launched her Hana Cakes business two or three years ago after always wanting to launch a cake business.
The Northport resident, at long last, discovered a way to launch her business when a memorable creation of hers, a two-tiered realistic diaper cake with an edible fondant diaper that was “soiled” with melted chocolate acting as poop running down the side of the cake for her sister’s third baby shower,... Read more
Formerly the Rotary Pizza restaurant, 10 Leland Street, Rockland
Maine Kebab opens in Rockland with forward-thinking takeout model
ROCKLAND—A fast-casual lunch and dinner spot opened this week called Maine Kebab, and owner Shane McGarvey and his executive chef, Ken Hynes, are already ahead of the curve in terms of issues that have plagued restaurants since the COVID-19 virus hit back in March.
The menu is very simple: Mediterranean and Turkish flavors. Main dishes include Tumeric rice bowls, flatbread sandwiches, falafel and hummus box, and a salad box all serve as the main ingredient dishes, to which a diner has the... Read more
Blueberry Moose a small retail shop at Watts Building, Thomaston
South Thomaston woman opens shop to help fellow crafters hard hit by pandemic
THOMASTON—Like so many enterprising crafter/artists before her, Jo Ann Hoppe, an artist and entrepreneur from South Thomaston, has made a career from her hobbies. Refusing to let a pandemic dictate her direction, she’s lifting up a dozen or so local crafters, who are selling their consigned items in her newly opened shop, Blueberry Moose at 166 Main Street in Thomaston.
“I’ve always been artistic, but in 2007, an artist told me I should be showing my stuff at craft fairs,” she said. “So, I... Read more
Louise Seekins spreads love through handsewn teddy bears
SEARSPORT — Louise Seekins possesses enthusiasm for sewing — expected when one has been sewing for more than five decades — and uses her affinity for the craft to spread cheer and love to her customers, and through donations of profits towards organizations supporting those with Alzheimer’s.
She has sewn an array of items such as quilts and memory T-shirt quilts, items for her children and costumes for the 15 children’s community theater plays she has directed, and has taught the art of... Read more
Maine’s Entrepreneurs and Artists
Shop Local Spotlight: ornaments, jewelry from discarded lobster, mussel, oyster shells
SOUTH BRISTOL—Many Maine artists use the concept of lobster in their art, but Tenley Seiders, an artist from South Bristol, actually uses lobster claws, tails, and other parts of the shell in her elegant jewelry and ornaments.
Born in California, she was first inspired to create jewelry from the abalone shells found on Pacific beaches. From there, she delved into working with pearls and semi-precious gemstones. After spending countless summers in Maine, an “a-ha” moment occurred when she... Read more
Vinalhaven’s An Hanna channels creativity, passion for dogs to produce martingale collars
VINALHAVEN — When Vinalhaven’s An Hanna was searching for collars for the sight hounds she raises, she looked for the best, highest quality collar possible that looked good and would keep the dogs safe. Unable to find collars that dazzled her, she opted to create her own collars now sold through her online Etsy store, The Royal Hound, which boasts handmade martingale collars.
“I've always had an attention to detail but wasn’t sure [the collars] would be appreciated by others,” she said of her... Read more
Offering light breakfast, local lunch favorites and fresh lobster rolls
Bill’s Original Kitchen opens at Knox County Regional Airport
OWLS HEAD—Bill Clifford, a chef who once ran Bill’s Original Kitchen in Kittery, has revived his one-man operation and recently opened his new kitchen at Knox County Regional Airport.
Originally from Portsmouth, New Hampshire, Clifford has worked as a chef at multiple venues in Maine, including his last stint at Point Lookout in Lincolnville before it abruptly closed.
The plan was in place since mid-October to take over the space, once occupied by the Salty Owl Cafe. He decided to take the... Read more
‘Every time you walk by a piece of my furniture you will think of the ocean’
Friendship artist Duff Powell’s driftwood creations remind you of the ocean’s beauty
FRIENDSHIP — Duff Powell, a resident of Friendship, has been an artist and craftsman his entire life, and is sharing his creations made from driftwood found on Maine’s islands and coastlines through an online Etsy store, Driftwood Treasures.
“Everything that I have done in my life has led me to this passion of making beautiful handcrafted tables and furniture from ocean driftwood,” he said. “I really love the quality and characteristics of the wood; to me there is nothing that compares to it... Read more
‘The best part of online sales is the reach to people who may otherwise not come across my work in person’
Rockland’s John Coppola: Captain by day, wood turner by night
ROCKLAND — During fishing season, Rockland’s John Coppola can be found on waters from Casco Bay to Penobscot Bay chartering fishing trips for striped bass, bluefish and bluefin tunas.
When he is not at the helm of a boat, wood turner Coppola is in his workshop crafting wooden handmade segmented bowls, bottle stoppers and ice cream scoopers.
Coppola opted to begin selling his Northeast Woodworks products online via Etsy as a way to supplement the sales he is able to make through the local... Read more
Shop Local: Three handcrafted gifts from Nature
For the holidays, we’re continuing our series to shine the spotlight on Maine craftspeople. It’s important to shop locally and support innovators and entrepreneurs who keep the creative economy alive in this state. So each week, until Dec. 25, we will bring you this series until you can’t take it anymore. Ready. Set. Go.
“Jellyfish’ Airplant Holders Made From Urchin Shells
Rockland, Maine
The back story:
Lynn Ann Carrano Stasulis works full time at Superior Restoration in Camden, but her... Read more
For #Giving Tuesday, a story on giving back to the restaurant industry
Maine Cater serves as a lifeline to local restaurants and servers
APPLETON—Maine Cater, a recruitment company dedicated to serving New England’s food and beverage industry, has come up with an idea to provide local “restaurateurs, employers, job seekers, and FOH/BOH” with an economic lifeline during a pandemic that shows no signs of stopping.
Husband-and-wife team, Daryle and Orianna Degen launched Maine Cater in Camden in 2017 as a way to supply temporary employees to restaurants suffering from immediate gaps in employment.
“We’ve both worked in the... Read more
From $10-$40
Shop Local: Three handmade goods that are pure ‘Maine’
Given that so many artists were hard hit economically over the COVID-19 virus, Penobscot Bay Pilot puts a spotlight on the hard-working artists and entrepreneurs in Maine. So each week, until Dec. 25, we will bring you this series until you can’t take it anymore. Ready. Set. Go.
The Original Lobstah Trap Beer Caddy
Cumberland, Maine
The back story: The Lobstah Trap Caddy is handcrafted in Maine constructed from authentic Maine lobster trap material. Joe Hamilton has family members that... Read more
The 4K Facebook group is sponsoring 85 families for Christmas and needs your help
‘Wine Fairies of Maine’ are anonymous altruists who help any family in need
THOMASTON—Back in March, 29-year-old Carly Laughery, of Thomaston, had her hands full with three kids and a job at Staples. With so many people around her losing jobs, childcare, and their financial security due to the COVID-19 virus, Laughery looked at ways she could possibly help.
She heard about a mysterious nationwide group called “Wine Fairies,” people who band together to anonymously drop a bag or basket of wine, food, or other special gifts on the doorstep of someone having a rough time... Read more
The photography of Midcoast’s Isaac Remsen
One shot is all it takes
ROCKPORT—On a cold, wintry day in 2018, Isaac Remsen was driving to work when glancing across the Rockport Harbor, he was compelled to slow down.
“I noticed the inner part of the harbor was completely frozen and there were about five lobster boats stuck in the ice,” he said. “I literally called my boss right then and there and said, ‘I’m going to be a little late; I need to take a shot of this.”
He took his DJI Phantom 4 drone out of the back of his car and sent it flying. The shot it... Read more
‘I'm very appreciative that one person in a small town in Maine can make Etsy work’
Michele LeGris shares passions for antiques with customers worldwide
OWLS HEAD — Michele LeGris, an Owls Head resident residing in an old cottage by the water, is an enthusiast of old books, which propelled her to an appreciation of paper marbling.
Since 2009, LeGris has been the proud owner of an Etsy store named Red Cottage.
LeGris’ inspiration to open an Etsy store to start sharing her passions with customers around the world stemmed from a love of marbled paper, which she makes herself.
“I started making marbled paper and I bought a bunch of old books... Read more
She’s just a Grrl In This World making small-batch products and thrashing out
Meet the North Haven feminist punk guitarist who makes organic skincare
NORTH HAVEN—Whoever said punk is dead hasn’t been to North Haven in awhile. Not exactly considered the gritty underground mecca for the post-punk scene, this lobstering community with only 400 year-round residents, holds its own when it comes to three riot grrrls who live and play music there.
Fiona Robins is the owner of Island Apothecary and her job entails gardening and making organic skincare products on North Haven, which have been featured in Mother Magazine and Buzzfeed. Her other day... Read more
Midcoast Entrepreneurs
Stockton Springs artist Chelsea Porter’s quirky way to turn discarded books into art
STOCKTON SPRINGS — Stockton Springs artist and entrepreneur Chelsea Porter has found a quirky way to breathe new life into old books poised to be thrown away, turning the books into distinctive pieces of art. Four years ago, Porter learned how to fold words and designs into the pages of books from her mother and aunt, who were the first in the family to learn the skill.Porter is able to create nearly any design imaginable — much of the inspiration for her designs stems from her love... Read more
‘This isn’t my barbershop, it belongs to the people of our community’
Rockland’s new barbershop ready to provide ‘best haircut’ of your life
ROCKLAND — The soon to be launched Dark Harbor Barber Company bears a name designed to intrigue the Midcoast community, according to its owner Sam Weldon.
The name behind the new barbershop, slated to open Nov. 16 on Union Street in Rockland, also holds sentimental value to Weldon (one of his favorite novels is Stuart Woods’ Dark Harbor) and is a nod to beautiful Islesboro village bearing the name.
Weldon is returning to the Midcoast with the launch of his barbershop after he spent several... Read more
Lexi Zable renovates Eclipse and Speakeasy into a locals’ haven
The Grey Owl Bar & Grill in Rockland is set to fly mid-November
ROCKLAND — Lexi Zable, owner of Port Clyde’s The Dip Net and The Barn in Port Clyde, has secured a new Rockland location for a third establishment, taking over The Eclipse and The Speakeasy on the corner of Park Street.
The Grey Owl Bar & Brill comprises both spaces and is currently in the midst of renovations, not only to improve the eatery’s aesthetic, but also to provide more partitioned space between diners per the COVID-19 mandates.
With The Dip Net and The Barn closed down for the... Read more
‘A meaningful sculpture has power, presence and humanity, and generates its own unique narrative’
Basketball coach and artist Jon Moro on unleashing creativity
ROCKPORT — Carving wooden life size sculptures of sports figures has been a passion for Rockport artist Jon Moro, who recently departed from sports figures to crafting a life size sculpture of two Biblical figures. They were unveiled Oct. 17 at Barnswallow Books, in Rockport Village.
“I’m fascinated by the challenge of creating a sense of movement, and emotion from a still, inanimate object,” Moro said, on his website. “A meaningful sculpture has power, presence and humanity, and generates its... Read more
Traditional Italian cuisine is elegant fare with casual dining
Ports of Italy restaurant opens in Rockport
ROCKPORT—Italian born-and-raised restaurateur Sante Calandri was not about to let a pandemic stop him from opening his new restaurant, Ports of Italy, in Rockport last week.
With a sister property in Boothbay Harbor, he’d always had his eye on the Midcoast and when the Helm restaurant came up for sale, he jumped on the opportunity. For the last year, he set to work on redesigning the place, adding two decks that overlook the forest-covered river in back. Set originally to open this past spring... Read more
Camden’s newest takeout eatery helmed by former Ebantide chef
Deirdre’s Roadside Takeout Serves Elevated ‘Food for Travelers’
CAMDEN—Patrons looking for your garden variety dogs and burgers will be pleasantly surprised to see what’s on the menu at the newly opened roadside takeout shack just outside Camden Hills State Park. Deirdre’s Roadside, co-owned by Chef Ean Flanagan, former owner of Ebantide and Kenny Corson formerly of the catering/banquet department of Point Lookout, are putting out an elevated comfort food menu with the emphasis on high quality, eclectic tastes.
After only being open two weeks, the owners... Read more
Crepes Crepes Crepes, a new food truck, opens in Thomaston
Did someone say crepes?
ROCKLAND—Something sweet has come out of the Summer of 2020 and it has rolled out in a pink-and-white food truck with a logo of the Eiffel Tower.
Eric Boyce has always had the dream of opening a breakfast spot; it just has taken awhile.
“I’ve been in aviation for 58 years, both as a helicopter and airplane pilot and as an aircraft maintenance engineer, and lived in Alaska for 21 years, but with COVID-19 happening, and losing my job in April, this seemed like the right time.”
With his... Read more
RasDal Falafel, a Belfast food truck and Station 118, a BBQ restaurant
Two new eateries bring exotic flavors to Belfast, Thomaston
MIDCOAST—A barbeque restaurant and a food truck serving Middle Eastern street food have opened on the coast in recent weeks. Here’s the skinny on both.
RasDal Falafel — Belfast
Canaan Jordan recently opened his new food truck, RasDal Falafel on Front Street by the footbridge earlier this month. Specializing in Middle Eastern street food, which is mostly vegetarian and vegan, Jordan said, “I’ve been cooking for almost 20 years and this is the kind of food I really like to eat, so I’ve been... Read more
Plans to open at the end of July
Mé Lon Togo, known for West African cuisine, opens in Camden
Like most restaurateurs, Jordan Benissan expected he’d be running his popular restaurant Mé Lon Togo in Waterville this spring, but the pandemic had other plans for him. Not able to keep the restaurant open, and falling behind in rent, his landlord evicted him. These setbacks led to his announcement to close his restaurant in March.
An acquaintance, a food blogger, who followed Benissan on Instagram, reached out to the food community in Portland and organized a Go Fund Me campaign for him,... Read more
Big T Snack Shack sets up in Rockport Harbor for the summer
ROCKPORT—With restaurants continuing to navigate seating challenges during COVID-19, one brick and mortar eatery has the perfect solution to stay operating—and the perfect location.
The Big T Snack Shack food trailer, co-owned by husband-and-wife Mark Senders and Rebecca Neves, was approved by the Rockport Select Board to set up full-time operations in Rockport Harbor this summer and fall.
The couple, who also own the Bagel Cafe in Camden, have operated The Big T Snack Shack at the Camden... Read more
‘On A Roll’ lobster food truck now open at Waterman’s Beach Brewery
SOUTH THOMASTON—A new food truck opened May 8 to complement Waterman’s Beach Brewery, and fans of the old Waterman’s Beach Lobster, will be thrilled to know that the new venue has some unique ties to the old.
Joshua and Charmen Spearing are heading up “On A Roll,” a traditional lobster shack on wheels in the same spot where Waterman’s Beach Lobster shack originally operated for the last 30 years,
Joshua, a lobsterman who fishes out of Spruce Head, and Charmen, a former employee of Waterman... Read more
Belfast entrepreneur Alicia Gaiero juggles ‘gnarly’ ski accessories business, additional endeavors
BELFAST — While people might be familiar with Alicia Gaiero’s remarkable athletic abilities, she is remarkably creating her own path in the business world, beginning with her ski accessories business, Gnarly Neckies.
Gaiero, a 2016 Belfast Area High School graduate, is majoring in environmental policy and planning at the University of Maine at Farmington and recently obtained a certificate from the University of Southern Maine in geographic information systems.
Gaiero, as a budding... Read more
Treasures inside the old Searsport Bank vault
A Splendiferous day in Searsport at the ‘Alice in Wonderland’ chocolate shoppe
SEARSPORT – Splendiferous is a word. It means stupendously beautiful, according to the Oxford English Dictionary, at any rate. It’s a newer word. It’s only been around since the mid-19th Century, but its usage has dramatically increased since the 1950s. This brings us to the Splendiferous Sweet Shoppe, an “Alice in Wonderland” themed chocolate shop at 21 Main Street in Searsport.
Meryem Rogan and co-owner/mother DeAnne Rogan opened the shop in downtown Searsport in June 2019.
DeAnne Rogan... Read more
How a side job became a full-time vocation for this fiber artist
Knitting for a living: How ‘On The Round’ became one entrepreneur’s dream job
ROCKLAND—We first encountered Rachel Jones at a beer-drinking knitting group called “Unraveled” several years ago in a story, “Women who like to knit with a brewski.”
Since then, the fiber artist from Owls Head has taken over an annex studio at Lincoln Street Center in Rockland with her successful shop making and selling unique hand-dyed yarns called On The Round.
Taking one’s hobby and turning it into a lucrative business is a common dream for Americans, but most aren’t ready to go full... Read more
To pay college costs, Maine student draws portraits
WARREN—University of New England college student William Cox, 19, has found a novel way to offset the cost of his college books and materials. He’s offering custom hand-drawn portraits to the Midcoast community.
Without a website or professional presence, he recently posted on Midcoast Message Board, a FB group with almost 26,000 members, that he was looking for commissions in order to pay for his college supplies.
He posted some of his recent portraits and the response from the community was... Read more
Bare trees of winter inspire Montville artist
MONTVILLE—Artist Felicia Cinquegrana lives in the deep woods of Montville, but she doesn’t even need to venture outside for inspiration. Trees are all around—her house, her studio, and in her art.
Her hand-engraved jewelry and paintings are only part of her collection, but they all share the same quality: A bare etching of a tree, its branches in stark movement, giving the impression of reaching out.
“My husband and I moved to Montville, Maine, from Rhode Island five years ago,” she said.... Read more
Shop Local: Three ‘Clutter-Free’ Gifts of Experiences
Giving someone the gift of services or an experience this season is one way to free the world of extra stuff and clutter, but it also supports many of the hard-working businesses in our community at the same time. It’s a win-win! So each week, until Dec. 25, we will bring you this series until you can’t take it anymore. Ready. Set. Go.
Traveling Escape Games
Edgecomb, Maine (But Will Travel)
Traveling Escape GamesEdgecomb, Maine (But Will Travel)Photo courtesy Traveling Escape Games
The... Read more
Gifts between $9 and $25
Shop Local: Three handmade goods that are pure ‘Maine’
For the month of December, we continue our series to shine the spotlight on local craftspeople who make things by hand. It’s important to shop local and to support the innovators and entrepreneurs who keep the creative economy alive in the Midcoast. So each week, until Dec. 25, we will bring you this series until you can’t take it anymore. Ready. Set. Go.
Alpaca Dryer Balls
Unity, Maine
Photo courtesy Northern Solstice Alpaca Farm
Handmade dryer balls made from alpaca fibers
The back story... Read more
Shop Local: Three unique Maine eats
Each December, we shine the spotlight on Maine craftspeople who make products by hand. This week, we focus on those who work out of their homes, farms and kitchens to make quality products, using unique Maine flavors and ingredients. Best of all, all of these items can be picked up locally and shipped.
Toddy Pond Farm Fromage Blanc
Monroe, Maine
Toddy Farm fromage is fantastic for a festive cheese board. Can be found at the Belfast Co-op. Photo courtesy Belfast Co-op.
A soft spreadable... Read more
Grandpa’s Kitchen, new Belfast breakfast, lunch spot, dishes up comfort food
BELFAST—If you’re shopping at the United Farmers Market of Maine in Belfast and happen upon Mike Raven’s booth, “Grandpa’s Specialty Smoked Meats,” you don’t have too far to walk for table service, as he recently opened a tiny restaurant next door.
Last month, Raven opened Grandpa’s Kitchen, an offshoot of his smoked meats business, in the kitchen annex attached to United Farmers Market of Maine formerly used by Jamaican Vybz.
As the family cook, Raven grew up observing his grandfather in the... Read more
Rob Voudvihong, Jocelyn and Wind Tracy team up, pursue simplistic perfection
Belfast welcomes sushi restaurant Satori to historic Gothic building
BELFAST — When the Gothic Building in Belfast became available for use it left a void downtown. The storied building, owned by Todd French, was once the home of now world-famous eatery The Lost Kitchen, followed by several other establishments. Now, a new sushi restaurant has filled both the space and a niche in town. Satori opened on September 20.
Satori is the work of three talented restaurant professionals who were brought together by happenstance and a combination of each of their... Read more
Ancho Honey to serve take out options, weekly specials, sandwiches
Bedell brings year-round dining option to heart of Tenants Harbor
TENANTS HARBOR — Many locals, and those versed in the Maine food scene, know Malcolm Bedell either from his writing, which includes co-authoring a book and regularly contributing to a variety of print and online publications, or his popular and cleverly-named Rockland-based food truck ‘Wich Please.
Now, Bedell is back with a new project: a modest eatery in his home town of Tenants Harbor called Ancho Honey, housed in a converted residence at the heart of the village. An attractive sign,... Read more
And the famous family lobster shack is back for a time!
Waterman Beach Brewery is Midcoast’s latest oceanfront brewery to open
SOUTH THOMASTON—It may be the end of the summer season for tourists to Maine, but Waterman Beach Brewing is just getting started.
General Manager Heath Curtis just opened the oceanfront brewery for Labor Day weekend to an enthusiastic crowd of locals, visitors and fans of Waterman’s Beach Lobster. But first, a little back story, so it all makes sense.
Three years ago, Waterman’s Beach Lobster, a family-owned lobster pound, announced it was closing for good after 30 years in the business.... Read more
‘Must be Nice’ owner hauls, cooks, shucks lobster, and runs her own business
Sadie Samuels’ new lobster shack opens in Belfast
BELFAST—She works hard for the money, that’s for sure. Captain Sadie Samuels catches lobster all week on her own boat, FV Must Be Nice.
The afternoon I’d stopped by her new lobster shack, located right on the Harbor Walk in Belfast, she’d already been up at 4 a.m. to go haul.
“The bait guys were late this morning, like 5 a.m., so I got a late start,” she admitted. Yet, by 10 a.m., when most of America is only an hour into their work day, Sadie got off the boat, and headed for her lobster... Read more
In business
‘The Only Doughnut’ you’ll ever need now exists in Belfast
BELFAST—Was it a coincidence that the day I decided to check out The Only Doughnut, a new shop in Belfast, there was only one doughnut left?
Well, to be accurate, one kind of doughnut—a coconut glazed—was left. The entire racks of doughnuts had been sold, cleared out by 11 a.m. on Sunday.
Owner Sally Jaskold was kind of surprised herself. Jaskold, who co-runs the business with Matt Wheeler, began making doughnuts from a commercial kitchen in Belfast and sold them at the United Belfast Farmer’... Read more
‘New wood and metal doesn’t have the personality that the old pieces have’
Jeff Barrett incorporates old wood, metal into his carvings, sculptures
MONROE — Jeff Barrett, a Monroe-based artist, takes pride in not only his art, but also the source materials of his art.
The former Colorado resident spent the 1980s and 1990s working in a well-known art glass studio in Denver, Colorado, where lived for two decades during a time he described as a “wonderful and unique time in American craft.”
As an artist for most his life, Barrett noted he has always worked in media other than glass, despite the two decades spent working in the art glass... Read more
‘I’m grateful to be able to help carry on this practice that is constantly evolving and shifting’
Addie Best thrives on tradition of printmaking, sustainable clothing practices
BELFAST — Though Addie Best is a newer face to the Belfast community, she is already beginning to leave her mark through her printmaking and sustainable fashion practices.
Presently, the Pennsylvania native is slowly transitioning to living in Belfast, while studying printmaking at the Rhode Island School of Design, where she just concluded her freshman year.
Growing up in a creative family, Best spent an abundance of time around artists and, thus, was exposed to a multitude of art forms,... Read more
Local artist brings wooden canvases to life with carefully sculpted faces
BELFAST — While the 24th annual Arts in the Park drew artists of all types from far and wide, one local artist whose work is featured in landscapes far and wide has been coming back every year for decades.
Ron Cowan, 76, is the man responsible for the intricately carved faces featured in a wide array of wooden sculptures carved in beams, tree trunks, and old harbor piers that are visible around businesses and homes, near and far.
The sculptures come in all different sizes, each with a... Read more
Takes over the old Cedar Crest Motel restaurant
Oliver’s Bistro opens with solid reputation in the Midcoast
Gary Oliver, the former co-owner of Mt. Battie Take Out at the base of the Camden Hills State Park, has a message for the shack’s loyal patrons who were disappointed to learn it was closing this season: “Don’t fret. We’re back and better than ever.”
The Beloin family, which owned the property the roadside restaurant was situation on, retired last October and sold their iconic lodging, Beloin’s to a young couple, as written about in a PenBay Pilot story, “After 80 years, Beloin’s gets new... Read more
In business
Amanda Amoroso combines passion for ceramics, environmental friendliness in company
ROCKPORT — For Rockport resident Amanda Amoroso, being environmentally friendly is a way of life and is at the center of her ceramics company, Honey Bee Hill.
Though she is now a skilled ceramics creator, she did not start her journey through the art world dedicated to ceramics.
When enrolling at Pennsylvania State University to pursue a bachelor’s of fine arts, Amoroso possessed an initial interest in industrial design.
“I have always enjoyed thinking about the specific use of items, how... Read more
Midcoast minivan tours to wineries, breweries and distilleries
Bull On The Run Tours set to capitalize on all-inclusive brewery, distillery and winery tours
WARREN—With the monster success of Maine Brew Bus tours in Portland and Boston, it was only a matter of time that all-inclusive minivan tours to Midcoast breweries, distilleries and wineries would materialize.
Larry and Rose Bull, of Warren, have envisioned a new service for locals and tourists to capitalize on the Maine Wine, Beer and Spirit Trails by doing all of the driving.
Bull On The Run Tours, a play on their last name, is set to start operating in May 12, Mother’s Day, with a 12-... Read more
Ollie’s, mobile food truck to open in Waldoboro April 22
WALDOBORO—A new mobile food truck is set to open in Waldoboro this spring. Opposite Moody’s Diner at the corner of Rt. 1 and Washington Road, Ollie’s, a bright red mobile kitchen, is set to open April 22.
Owners Vickey and Ralph Jones, who formerly owned Ollie’s Place, a small grocery store and restaurant in Jefferson, had to put the business on hold in 2015 to care for Ralph’s ailing mother. After taking a couple of years after that to travel, the couple decided to move to Waldoboro and open... Read more
‘Beer and food has been our whole relationship’
Sterlingtown Public House to bring craft beer, upscale comfort food, brunch to Union
UNION — A new chapter has emerged for a beloved Union eatery. Owners Jillian Lary and Brian Fickett, both 24, said that they are aiming to open the doors to Sterlingtown Public House in late April.
The Public House will occupy the location that formerly housed the Badger Cafe, an established and popular community eatery known for creative comfort food, a stellar beer selection and assorted trivia nights and events.
Badger Cafe owners Christy and Michael Greer said they decided to sell their... Read more
The Stone Brick Oven Kitchen takes over Pizza Permare location
Two friends open a pizza restaurant a stone’s throw from Lincolnville, Belfast
NORTHPORT— Friends and former coworkers Stacy Schlensker and Nicole Pearse were catching up on each other’s lives over a drink last fall when they realized they both had the same dream: to open a food truck or a small restaurant in the Midcoast that provided fresh, affordable food to an under-served community. Their dream turned into the opening of The Stone Brick Oven Kitchen on Route 1 in Northport, just past Wentworth’s Grocery, on March 1.
“Before I got married at Point Lookout in... Read more
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eEgBEORpjuI
‘Many believe that luthier-built guitars are truer versions of the original models’
From gridiron to guitars: Former football coach Thad Chilton prospers as luthier
CAMDEN — Many in the Midcoast recognize Camden resident Thad Chilton as a Five Town Football youth football program cofounder and as the former varsity head football coach at Camden Hills Regional High School.
While Chilton, indeed, devoted countless hours to youth football in the area, he is not simply just a football coach.
Chilton is the proud owner of Camden Harbor Custom Guitars, his Camden-based business where he uses his skills as a luthier to hand-craft guitars.
With three models... Read more
Shop Local Spotlight: Pure Maine Birch Syrup
For the month of December, we continue our “Shop Local” series to shine the spotlight on craftspeople who make things by hand.
Temple Tappers
Mike Romanyshyn and his wife, Susie Dennison, owners of Temple Tappers, small batch pure Maine birch syrup made from birch trees.
The back story:
In 2012, Romanyshyn and Dennison, and their sons, Auley,14, and Maurice,12, were walking around their land in Temple, Maine, wondering how they might be able to use their land for commercial purposes,... Read more
Shop Local Spotlight: Robot sculptures made from vintage finds
For the month of December, we continue our “Shop Local” series to shine the spotlight on local craftspeople who make things by hand. So each week, until Dec. 25, we will bring you this series until you can’t take it anymore. Ready. Set. Go.
Recycle Me Silly Design
Robot sculptures made with found objects and vintage tins by Bill Tozier in Augusta.
The back story
Tozier, the vice president of a Credit Union, has a couple of side gigs that fulfill his creative side. One is his music.
“I play... Read more
Shop Local Spotlight: Upcycled handmade hats from old sweaters
For the month of December, we continue our “Shop Local” series to shine the spotlight on local craftspeople who make things by hand. So each week, until Dec. 25, we will bring you this series until you can’t take it anymore. Ready. Set. Go.
Mary Alice Bird’s Hat Designs
Upcycled handmade hats from old sweaters
The Back Story:
It all started 25 years ago, when Rockland resident Mary Alice Bird heard a story from her daughter, Sarah Bird, who had come across stack of old wool sweaters at a... Read more
Shop Local Spotlight: Gourmet Maine Lobster Crackers
For the month of December, we continue our “Shop Local” series to shine the spotlight on local craftspeople who make things by hand. It’s important to shop local and to support the innovators and entrepreneurs who keep the creative economy alive in the Midcoast. So each week, until Dec. 25, we will bring you this series until you can’t take it anymore. Ready. Set. Go.
Gourmet Maine Lobster Crackers
Real Maine lobster baked in a delicious cracker
The Back Story
In 2012, Pat Havener and her... Read more
Briar Patch restaurant opens in Appleton
APPLETON — Briar Patch restaurant was a vision years in the making said owner Ben Magro, over a cup of coffee in the bright but intimate space that houses his new restaurant venture. The structure, while not new, was a labor of love.
Magro, a longtime resident of Appleton, said that he had always admired the property that now houses Briar Patch.
“I always eyed this property, it’s just so beautiful,” he said, referring to the early 1800s cape that has been reimagined as a charming 40-seat... Read more
From biker gang hangout to a microbrewery, the building has a colorful history
Liberator Brewing Co, Rockland South End’s new nanobrewery opens its doors
ROCKLAND — In a long-awaited moment for brewer Rich Ruggerio, the doors of his WW II aviation-themed nanobrewery, Liberator Brewing Co., officially opened to the public Wednesday, Oct. 31.
“Back in the ‘90s, I had a brewery called Rocky Bay and over the years, I put in breweries for other people, but I just felt it was time to do something on my own,” he said. “It just felt awesome to finally open the doors.”
With a two-barrel system, Liberator opened with four beers on the opening day menu,... Read more
Lincolnville’s newest ice cream shop and old fashioned candy store
Ice cream cones with a sprinkling of unmarred ocean views
LINCOLNVILLE—Set in the annex of the Lincolnville Beach’s Lobster Pound is a cool treat for the last days of summer: ice cream with unspoiled ocean views.
Even when the restaurant is closed, the ice cream shop is open seven days a week from 12 to 9 p.m., the only establishment to stay open that late in Lincolnville Beach.
Mariah Lapham, 23, of Belfast, is the sole ice cream scooper, and on any given day she gives her right shoulder and hand a workout scooping nearly 50-100 cones and cups. The... Read more
Part of Hoxbill and Blaze Brewing Co., now officially open
Kurafuto brings Japanese street food to Camden wharf
CAMDEN—Kurafuto, the long-awaited Japanese-style pub now open in Camden, completes restaurateur Matt Haskell’s vision of combining his Blaze Brewery with a menu of small plates, noodle bowls, and sushi.
“We’ve been open a week now and while sushi has been a big draw, people are really drawn to the noodle bowls,” said head chef Luigi Patelli. “The House Ramen, with Kurobuto pork shoulder pork belly, soft egg, nori and scallion, has been the favorite so far.”
Patelli, who moved to Maine to work... Read more
Welder artist turns scrap metal into whimsical sculptures
HOPE—Long abandoned shovels, rusted chains, nuts, bolts and other broken tools that no longer have use are Wayne Twitchell’s favorite things to find when he’s out moseying around at yard sales and second hand stores. Almost 50 years ago Twitchell started a career in welding with a South Portland cement plant. He moved on after that, he honing his welding skills with Fischer Engineering and Bath Iron Works and was the recipient of the Navy’s Aegis Excellence Award for welding.
About 30 years... Read more
Former Hatchett Mountain Publick House restaurant gets new owner, new name
Hope to welcome Barrettstown Farmhouse restaurant
HOPE — On Wednesday, August 1, the pastoral property at 42 Hatchet Mountain Road in Hope — formerly the Hatchett Mountain Publick House — will reopen as the Barrettstown Farmhouse, a restaurant specializing in tasty, approachable food, fun drinks and good people, said new owner Jessica “Jessi” Wootton.
Jessi's decision to stay in her home state of Maine was not initially one she anticipated. After more than five years living on St. John USVI, she flew home in July 2017 to attend the birth of... Read more
cocktail bar will serve curated drinks, elevated snacks
The Block Saloon opens in Thomaston
THOMASTON — When Martin Farrell bought the building at 173 Main St. in Thomaston in 2014 it was initially to house the offices of his healthcare consulting business. Though the historic building started its life as Delano's Saloon, said Farrell, prior to his purchase it spent about 150 years as a bank under various names.
Now, Farrell has decided to take the building back to its roots, officially opening The Block Saloon on Tuesday, June 26.
The name for the establishment was inspired by a... Read more
Under new ownership, Historic building now houses 24-seat restaurant
The Hichborn offers fine dining, local ingredients in Stockton Springs
STOCKTON SPRINGS — When Kirk P. Linder and Charlie Zorich decided to leave Portland, Oregon, it was New England's siren song that called them. Traveling in their 1984 Volkswagen Westfalia — affectionately called "Larri" — the pair said they were discussing their shared feeling that it was time to leave Portland.
They had been working on starting a project out there but had become discouraged and were ready to move on. What they did not yet know was that they would become the owner/operators of... Read more
Camden’s harborside Blaze Brewing Co. set to open in June
CAMDEN — The roll out for the Camden location of Blaze Brewing Co. is right on schedule for a June opening. Maine restaurateur Matt Haskell took the winter to fine tune plans for the new microbewery, which is sandwiched between his two restaurants, Hoxbill, a casual fine dining restaurant overlooking the harbor on Bay View Landing and their soon-to-open Japanese counter-service izakaya, or pub, called Kurafuto. Joined in the center is the dramatic glass-enclosed microbrewery production room on... Read more
‘To me, it’s about fitting in and being a part of this community’
Rockland’s North Beacon Oyster to feature Maine seafood, happy hour
ROCKLAND — 421 Main Street in Rockland will soon open its doors as North Beacon Oyster. Owner and Chef Michael Mastronardi, of Port Clyde, said he hopes to open the doors of his new business in the next two weeks, and “definitely before Memorial Day.”
Mastronardi, 33, is no stranger to the Midcoast restaurant scene. A native of Hartford, Conn., he said his career in restaurants started organically when he accepted a position washing dishes and “worked really hard.”
His work ethic and interest... Read more
Adds to four more breweries opening in the Midcoast this spring
Odd Alewives, new Waldoboro farmhouse brewery opens May 3
WALDOBORO — Even though it feels remote, one of the latest breweries opening in the Midcoast area is a stone’s throw from Moody’s Diner off Route 1.
Odd Alewives Farm Brewery, founded by John and Sarah McNeil, sits on 22 acres of gardens and forest. The brewery and tasting room are a converted 1850s alpaca barn that sits next to their farmhouse. While John works with a 10-barrel system on one side of the barn, Sarah will oversee the tasting room. With quirky bowed floors, handcrafted counters... Read more
Hope apiaries craft natural candles from pure Maine beeswax
Handcrafted candles that look, and smell, sweet enough to eat
HOPE—Easter has come and gone but in many homes, small beeswax candles in the shape of bunnies and Easter Eggs, made by Susie Smith, serve as the holiday’s fragrant reminder.
Smith has been handcrafting the naturally colored and honey-scented pure beeswax candles for 10 years at her home studio in Hope on property she shares with her husband, David Smith.
David is a beekeeper and the Smiths make honey, as well as maple syrup. The natural byproducts of the hive have become the basis for Susie’... Read more
Pour Farm brewery to produce small batches from ground up
UNION — Most are familiar with the wildly popular “farm to table” food movement that sprang to life several years ago and has continued to gain traction around the world. In Union, one family is hoping to bring a similar model to their recently purchased property on Crawfordsburn Road, aspiring to not just brew beer, but to grow the hops and botanicals for the small batch beers they will begin producing this spring.
Bill Stinson and his wife, Ashley, moved to Union from Lexington,... Read more
In business: Chainstitch Repair Company
Entrepreneur develops business niche in Rockland with antique sewing machines, chainstitch embroidery
ROCKLAND — Entering Griffen Cooper’s studio at the Lincoln Street Center for the Arts is an immediate feast for the senses. Early industrial sewing machines of various design and repair are set up throughout the snug but well-appointed space, designs and embroidered patches adorn the walls, and a rolling rack filled with vintage clothing suggests projects in the wings. A chalkboard on the wall leftover from the building’s previous iteration as a public school contains scrolled notes and ideas... Read more
‘We want this to be a welcoming hang out’
New Rockport espresso-wine-beer-bakery opens at busy town corner
ROCKPORT—Having moved to Camden from south of Boston four years ago, the Gelerman family wasn’t looking to start a new business.
“We came up to retire,” said Theola Gelerman, sitting at the oval granite bar under mullioned windows on the sunny first floor at their new business venture.
“We had run a specialty grocery store for 18 years,” added her husband, David. “And we thought we were done.”
That notion changed when the Gelermans learned that the Cellardoor Winery Tasting Room on the... Read more
From local crafters who work out of their homes
Shop Local: Three last minute handmade gift ideas
For the holidays, we’re continuing our series to shine the spotlight on Maine craftspeople who make products by hand and work out of their homes and kitchens to make quality products and work. Here are three last-minute ideas that can be found in the Midcoast and online before the season is upon us.
Lovin’ Cups
Handleless pottery that’s part of Waterfall Arts’ Handmade show
The back story:
Linda Stec has been teaching clay at Waterfall Arts for over a decade. She has a degree in Fine Arts... Read more
Lobster roll (right to your door) fresh Camden-themed coffee and rosemary ginger sauce
Shop Local: Three unique Maine edibles
Through December, we continue our series to shine the spotlight on local people who make their living by their home kitchens and small production facilities, using unique Maine flavors and ingredients no one can get anywhere else. Best of all, all of these items can be picked up locally and shipped.
Graffam Bros. Maine Seafood Rockport
A fresh Maine caught lobster roll delivered to your door with Maine’s Deep River Snack kettle chips.
The back story:
Maine Lobsters are 100% hand-harvested... Read more
New Restaurant to open Dec. 14
Texas woman brings flavors of home to La Mesa in Liberty
LIBERTY — When Lisa Fagin and her husband, Richard, purchased their vacation home in Belfast it was initially to escape the hot Texas summers. With her husband working from home, Fagin took the opportunity to explore Maine. Ambitious and with a business background, Fagin initially saw the need for a casual bakery with generous hours in, or near, Belfast. Her vision rapidly evolved, and she plans to open her new eatery, La Mesa, on Dec. 14.
La Mesa is at the corner of routes 3 and 220 in the... Read more
Maine Ornaments, Nautical Napkin Rings and Fingerless Wool Gloves
Shop Local: Three unique handmade Maine goods
For the month of December, we continue our series to shine the spotlight on local craftspeople who make things by hand. It’s important to shop local and to support the innovators and entrepreneurs who keep the creative economy alive in the Midcoast. So each week, until Dec. 25, we will bring you this series until you can’t take it anymore. Ready. Set. Go.
Mainely Naturals, Belfast
“Bambi” White Tailed Deer Ornament
The back story:
Kris Chapman grew up just outside of Boston and moved to... Read more
‘The advantage of being local for so long is that you know everyone’
51 Main brings food, community to downtown Liberty
LIBERTY — When Tom Opper, of Liberty Graphics, purchased a dilapidated antique residence perched on a hill just up the street from his shop early in 2015, he had his sites set on adding a restaurant to the small, eclectic Waldo County village of Liberty. The building, located at 51 Main St., was in rough condition after sitting unoccupied for years. Opper saw the opportunity to purchase it out of foreclosure and transform it into a viable asset to the community.
While Opper has owned Liberty... Read more
Celebrating local farms
Ondine: Brine, swine, dine and, of course, wine
BELFAST — The first item on every Ondine Oyster and Wine Bar menu is a short accolade to the shellfish, and reads: “Oysters once carpeted the rocky inshore banks and mouths of Maine’s saltwater rivers. Cultivated oysters in Midcoast Maine have reintroduced a population of succulent filter feeders that taste great and keep our waters clean.”
Immediately following is Ondine’s oyster menu. Not only are the dishes unique, so too are the variety of oysters found at the restaurant, with six or seven... Read more
Community gathering place opens Nov. 1
New Rockland restaurant, Ada’s Kitchen, to offer Italian classics, happy hour
ROCKLAND — Jenn Rockwell, along with her father Rick Rockwell, of Rockland Realty, are on a mission. Their current goal? To bring increased vibrancy and visibility to the north end of Rockland Main Street.
Scheduled to open November 1, Ada's Kitchen is the latest undertaking of the duo, who are also the owners of Main Street Markets, which opened its doors in 2015.
Seated inside the evolving but comfortably elegant space at 449 Main Street, the space that will house the new restaurant, Jenn... Read more
Pressed for Cider had their Grand Opening September 30
Cold off the press: a new apple press business opens in Knox, Maine
KNOX—On a sunny, October day, it’s the perfect drive from the Midcoast going inland as the trees are beginning to change. Just a couple of miles before the Ridge Top Diner in Knox, Morse Road turns down on a long stretch of farm road toward New Beat Farm, a horse-powered organic vegetable, flower and sheep farm in the heart of Waldo County.
Working out of an 1880s farm house, New Beat Farm’s owners Adrienne Lee and Ken Lanson have converted an unused barn space tacked onto their house as a... Read more
Working the oven with Richard Remsen
Hot fire, molten glass and lobster claws in West Rockport Foundry
ROCKPORT — On a hot August afternoon, artist Richard Remsen is in his element, standing close to the flames firing his 2,100-F oven. Welders glasses are pulled over his regular glasses, and he’s decked in a Hawaiian shirt with a rip down the center, shorts and sneakers. At the end of a long blow pipe stuck in the oven is first a blob of liquid glass; slowly, though, it takes on the form of a lobster claw, as Remsen carefully tools it toward a piece of glass art.
These lobster claws are his... Read more
Rockland’s North End gains another Italian-inspired eatery
Ferryside Lunch is Rockland’s latest lunch spot
ROCKLAND—The interior of the newly opened Ferryside Lunch in Rockland’s North End (497 Main Street) may small inside, but the homemade paninis and soup are going to be the biggest draw.
Re-opened just last week, Ferryside Lunch originally opened last winter, but had to close through the spring and summer to get renovations done to the 200-square-foot shop. Owner Jessica Arena runs the sandwich and soup shop, alongside with her son, Dylan Whitamore, 16, and her daughter, Adrianna, 14.... Read more
‘It beats being a camp counselor’
Two 19-year-olds run dream business with Smoothie Haven in Rockland
ROCKLAND — Last summer, Keenan Hendricks and Christian Straka were camp counselors and wondered out loud how they could start their own business.
“We’re both physically active and play sports, and were thinking, how we could sell something that was enjoyable and healthy,” said Hendricks.
“We like smoothies, but most places they’re really expensive, so we thought we should make the kind of smoothies we could afford ourselves,” said Straka.
Smoothie Haven launched June 13, featuring an array... Read more
The Hoot, Northport’s newest breakfast and lunch joint, serves simple, hearty fare
NORTHPORT — Anyone wondering why they no longer see those garish lime green and yellow colors of the old Dos Amigos Mexican Restaurant as they pass Route 1 will be happy to know that the restaurant has been taken over, reinvented and is now open for the season. The Hoot, a breakfast and lunch restaurant, is owned and run by former food truck owner Anna Wagner.
The building is now clad in dark shingles, and adorned by planters of flowers, with an expansive back deck under a canopy of trees.... Read more
‘I try to see the beauty’
Belfast artist on painting: Each brushstroke has a voice
She is an artist, and she likes to work hard. Combine the two characteristics, and there is Jerri Finch, a longtime presence on the Maine art scene, and a bold one. She breaks ground, literally, and on her canvas. These days, her canvases proliferate under the soft allure of oil paints. She has found her groove in her studio, working through the winter, mixing colors, experimenting with light and angles, watching the fall landscape drop into winter, and then push back toward spring.
It’s a... Read more
Neighborhood and The Hoot
Two Belfast food trucks trade wheels for bricks and mortar
BELFAST— A trend in Portland, where food truck owners test the waters by going mobile with a small menu and then take it to the next level with restaurant space, has taken hold in Belfast, where two new restaurants are slated to open.
Neighborhood
Four years ago, Seth Whited and Sarah Waldron were co-owners and operators of the Good ‘N’ You food truck in the back parking lot of Rollie’s Bar and Grill. They served up healthy, locally sourced Mexican and Mediterranean fare before they chose to... Read more
Captain Mattie ensures it’s all boat to plate
Hot Fat in Waldoboro joins growing Midcoast food truck fleet
WALDOBORO — Monhegan resident Matt “Captain Mattie” Thomson has been providing the boat-to-plate experience for the public well before it ever became a trend. For the last 24 years that he’s lived on Monhegan, he has captained at various times both a groundfish boat and a lobster boat. At the end of the fishing trip when everyone else would go home, Thomson would fillet up some haddock or hake he’d just caught and then sell it through a little trailer by his house.
“It was originally an... Read more
Corner building in downtown Camden gets overhauled
Camden’s Sea Dog Brewing Co. opens Friday
CAMDEN — In a soft opening event Wednesday night, several dozen people got a chance to check out the renovations the Sea Dog Brewing Co. has made over the spring and summer in anticipation for their grand opening Friday, Aug. 5. The three separate buildings have been built out to resemble a cohesive classic Sea Dog color scheme of exposed beams, wooden booths and tables and splashy wall art. The space now includes two bars, (one downstairs, and one split bar upstairs where the Crow’s Nest of... Read more
The seafood and steak restaurant plans to open July 7
Meet the owners of 18 Central, Rockport’s new Oyster Bar and Grill
ROCKPORT — They say timing is everything. For Patrick Duffy, an executive chef and Jessica Duffy, a seasoned server and restaurant manager, the time seemed right to open their first restaurant together once they learned that Shepherd’s Pie in Rockport was closing for good this past May.
“We’d thought about opening a restaurant before, so when this space became available, we literally had days to decide,” said Jessica.
It so happened that the pair had moved from Boston in 2011 to run Shepherd’... Read more
Café serves as the town’s social center
Sleepy village of Warren wakes up with St. George River Café
WARREN — All winter, the bottom floor of the three-story wooden building next to the St. George River in Warren has been transforming. For 20 years, it had been Wink’s Whimseys, an antique store. Partners Ann Gonzalez and Fanny Faye Davis left their jobs and condo in Seattle, Wash., last year and moved to Maine, hoping to find more affordable land and a country house. Gonzalez, who’d grown up in New England, said she always had a desire to come back so, sight unseen, they bought a house in... Read more
Rhumb Line, Camden’s newest industrial clam shack, opens May 18
CAMDEN — Over the last few months, a space on the working waterfront side of Camden’s harbor, at Lyman-Morse at Wayfarer Marine, has been quietly undergoing major renovations for Chef Scott Yakovenko’s latest restaurant, Rhumb Line, set to open May 18.
A whole new kitchen had to be built and the interior of the snug space was completely retrofitted by Chris Biggart and Fred Boursier, who fashioned the walls with reclaimed barn boards from Youngtown Inn. In addition, they hand-crafted all of... Read more
Broken Egg: new breakfast-brunch-lunch joint opening in May
ROCKLAND — You know what they say: you can’t make an omelette without breaking some eggs. For Heather Symmt, a Camden resident, this is something to keep in mind as she prepares to open her first restaurant, Broken Egg at 421 Main St., formerly the site of Comida Restaurant on May 18.
An accountant by trade with a passion and degree in baking and pastries, Symmt looked around for two years, before landing the what she saw as the perfect spot for her breakfast, brunch and lunch restaurant.
“I... Read more
on a roll...
Two new food trucks coming to Belfast, Rockland
What should we call food truck connoisseurs—truckies? Well, truckies will be interested to know one Belfast food truck is pulling up their wheels and handing them over to someone else, while another dormant food truck in Rockland will be rolling in this spring.
Belfast’s Good ‘N’ You, a Mexican-themed food truck run by Sarah Waldron and Seth Whited since 2012, has decided not to re-open this summer. (See our original story on them here.) On their Facebook page they announced, “Running this... Read more
Planning bakery - ice cream - sub shop for April
Home Kitchen Cafe taking over former Brown Bag space in Rockland
ROCKLAND — Known for the “Best Breakfast in New England” (deemed by Yankee magazine), Home Kitchen Café owners James Hatch and Susan Schiro are expanding their restaurant’s popular brand this April into the former Brown Bag location on Main Street.
Hatch and Schiro, who’d just expanded the business a year before, transforming the former hair salon adjacent to the restaurant at 19 North Main St. into an ice cream parlor and bakery, had no plans on moving until they learned the Brown Bag was... Read more
Nautilus moved across the ‘Passy’ Bridge in December; doubling business
‘Location and loyalty’ is how Belfast’s newest restaurant is thriving
BELFAST — As we wrote in a recent article, it’s always tough for a fairly new restaurant in the Midcoast to thrive during the winter, but Jenifer Oakes, one of three co-owners of Nautilus Seafood & Grill, credits two factors for their winter survival: a new location and loyal customers.
Though it’s only been a little more than a month since they moved from the east side of Belfast, across the bridge the spans the Passagassawakeag River, and took over the former Weathervane Seafood... Read more
Opened this week in former Oh Bento space
Pho Sizzle is latest food truck eatery to gain restaurant space in Rockland
ROCKLAND — It’s been a little more than a year-and-a-half since Tom Pham rolled out his bright yellow food truck, Pho Sizzle, in Buoy Park in Rockland. Whipping up authentic Vietnamese cuisine with local ingredients, his food truck quickly became a local favorite. Business grew so fast, it didn’t make sense to shut it down for the winter. Instead, he decided to lease space at 10 Leland St. in Rockland, the site of the old Oh Bento restaurant.
“This summer was really busy all summer and I had a... Read more
Dolce Vita Farm and Bakery starts al fresco, farm-to-table dinners
‘Traveling Baker’ takes Italian/American fusion to Lincolnville pop-up dinners
LINCOLNVILLE — Tucked in the bend of a back road in Lincolnville sits a tiny one-woman enterprise called Dolce Vita Farm and Bakery. Rose Lowell has been producing fresh breads and vegetables for sale at local farmers' markets, as well as her own vegetable shed, for more than five years. For the last 15 years, she has made the trek to Italy to learn, to absorb the culture and food. There, she met Stefano Valenti at Spannocchia, an organic farm outside of Siena, Italy.
“He was working in the... Read more
Hope comes to Camden bearing fish ‘n chips and a sense of community
Stewarts bring Drouthy Bear to Camden for a bit of Scotch and steak pie
CAMDEN — A bit of Scotland is getting seated on Elm Street in Camden, in a little old house — eccentric, one could call it — with lots of nooks and crannies, circular staircase and bright floral wallpaper. Perfect for a Scottish pub where the kitchen will come alive with baking and frying, and a dining room full of conversation.
This is where Andrew and Shannon Stewart, their two children Harris and Tildy, plus a lot of local friends, are planning to open the Drouthy Bear later in the summer,... Read more
Meanwhile in Belfast, new wood-fired pizza restaurant opens in Belfast
BELFAST — The name of a new Midcoast eatery sounds like what you’d say in the middle of a good story, but it’s not one you’ll forget. Meanwhile in Belfast is the name of a wood-fired pizza place and bar that opened March 19, on the back side of the Brambles building at 2 Cross St.
While the food is upscale pizza with the farm-to-table vibe, the space is warm (from the pizza oven ) and cozy with plenty of light and views of the harbor. The tiny bar area, with multi-colored stools, lends to the... Read more
Young entrepreneur opens Pizza Permare in Northport
NORTHPORT—The little building on Route 1 just past Wentworth Grocery has been a number of businesses in the last couple decades, but entrepreneur Bryant Hall is confident that his latest venture is the right fit at the right location. Pizza Permare is a wood-fired pizzeria that opened nearly two weeks ago and is already getting some swift word-of-mouth attention from the locals.
“It may not be right in the middle of things, but it’s got a lot of visibility,” said Hall, who remained open after... Read more
The ‘Shop Local’ gift guide: Three locally made wearables $20 and under
For the holidays, we’re continuing our series to shine the spotlight on Maine craftspeople who make products by hand. This week it’s all about locally made wearable gift ideas. Each week, until Dec. 25, we will bring you this series until you can’t take it anymore. Ready. Set. Go.
Karyl’s Jewelry Silver Filigree Earrings
The back storyKaryl and Manny Brown run a dual shop that recently opened this fall in Camden and Karyl’s side of the shop, a jewelry studio, is where she hand-makes all of... Read more
The ‘Shop Local’ gift guide: Three locally made food/drink gifts $20 and under
For the holidays, we’re continuing our series to shine the spotlight on Maine craftspeople who make products by hand. This week it’s all about locally crafted food or drink items. Each week, until Dec. 25, we will bring you this series until you can’t take it anymore. Ready. Set. Go.
Maine Beer Company ‘Lunch’
The back story
This small family business began between two brothers Dave and Daniel Kleban, and I love their “Do What’s Right” campaign, in which they give 1 percent of their sales... Read more
Green/Upcycled is the theme of the week
The ‘Shop Local’ gift guide: three handmade gifts $20 and under
For the holidays, we’re continuing our series to shine the spotlight on Maine craftspeople who make products by hand. It’s important to support innovators and entrepreneurs who keep the creative economy alive in this state. This week it’s all about green, sustainable and upcycled handmade products. Each week, until Dec. 25, we will bring you this series until you can’t take it anymore. Ready. Set. Go.
Goat Soaps
The back story
Check out the Belfast Co-op for some awesome green gift ideas.... Read more
Updated
New food truck, ‘Wich Please, coming to Rockland
ROCKLAND — ‘Wich Please, a sassy, comfort food sandwich truck will soon be rolling up to Rockland.
On Nov. 18, with fewer than three days to go in his crowd-funding Kickstarter campaign, local food blogger Malcolm Bedell blew through a $25,000 goal to fund his food truck project. The campaign ended on Nov. 21 with $29,457 raised, just shy of their $30,000 stretch goal.
Funded by 401 backers, many of them from Maine, the project has built-in local enthusiasm. Bedell, who grew up in Tenants... Read more
Fox On The Run will offer healthy, fresh, ‘well-crafted’ food
New Midcoast food truck hits the streets this spring
ROCKPORT — What does the fox say? It says: “I’m hungry.” The Midcoast just gained a new gourmet food truck with the launch of Fox on the Run, owned by Lauren Jellison and assisted by her partner, Kevin Allen.
The bright red truck with the sprinting fox logo will be easy to find once Jellison finds the ideal spot. She’s kicking off her soft launch in May in downtown Belfast, then moving to Rockport Marine Harbor for the summer. On weekend nights, she’s working on securing a late night position... Read more
In business
Hideaway Diner, a warm and comfortable place with a big menu
NORTHPORT — Doris and Ed Moran didn’t know what type of business they were looking for when they decided they wanted to move from Ohio “back east to Maine,” only that they were on the hunt for a business for sale in the area and that Hideaway Diner happened to be for sale.
The pair took over the business in 2001, and said things have been going well since
In an effort to attract new customers, Doris said the restaurant has expanded its menu to include pizza and fried chicken, which they’ve... Read more
In business
Out of the Woods
BELFAST — If you’re looking for a piece of beautiful wood product crafted in Maine, look no further than Out of the Woods, a retail store born from a desire to help members of the Maine Wood Products Association sell their products.
The selection in the store varies widely, from carefully crafted furniture to character ornaments fashioned from lobster claws. The store only has one set criteria for products: They must be made in Maine, according to manager Colleen Marsh.
The store, which... Read more
http://youtu.be/Fvj3iB2ZFgM
Upcycled and sustainable Maine product with design input from local musicians
Union woodworker creates guitar picks with funny little personalities
CAMDEN — At first glance, the little faces Chris Gray has carved into his handcrafted guitar picks reveal big personalities. Are they pensive? Wincing? Smiling? Hard to tell, but whatever they’re “thinking” they’ve become the signature look of his most recent entrepreneurial venture, Riff Wood Picks.
Riff Wood Picks are upcycled and handmade hardwood picks for guitar, bass guitar, ukelele and mandolin. Gray and his wife are originally from Tennessee, but moved up to Union seven years ago on a... Read more
Leather coffee cup insulator, firestarters and Vacationland, a novel
Last minute ‘shop local’ gift ideas
For the holidays, we’re continuing our series to shine the spotlight on Maine craftspeople who make products by hand. It’s important to shop locally and support innovators and entrepreneurs who keep the creative economy alive in this state. So each week, until Dec. 25, we will bring you this series until you can’t take it anymore. Ready. Set. Go.
Leather Coffee Cup Jacket Insulator
The back story
Patricia McDonald is an artist from Union, and who owns a small business called Patzbag. Much of... Read more
Woodland ornaments, a KnockOut Bixby Bar and handcrafted coffee set
For the holidays, we’re continuing our series to shine the spotlight on Maine craftspeople who make products by hand. It’s important to shop locally and support innovators and entrepreneurs who keep the creative economy alive in this state. So each week, until Dec. 25, we will bring you this series until you can’t take it anymore. Ready. Set. Go.
Woodland ornaments
The back story
Jennifer Sansosti is an artist from from Ellsworth, who owns a small business called WinkumPaws. She and her... Read more
Shop-local series highlights three unique Maine-made goods
Nautical chart luminaries, upcycled keyracks and cutting boards you can play checkers on
For the holidays, we’re continuing our series to shine the spotlight on Maine craftspeople who make products by hand. It’s important to shop locally and support the innovators and entrepreneurs who keep the creative economy alive in this state. So each week, until Dec. 25, we will bring you this series until you can’t take it anymore. Ready. Set. Go.
Chart luminaria
The back story
Betty Kelly’s company, Papers by Popple Stone Press, was established in her home studio in Downeast, Maine... Read more
New to the neighborhood, a one-stop shop for fresh and hard-to-find Maine food
Terra Optima Farm Market pulls community and fresh food together in Rockland's South End
ROCKLAND — Cheryl Denz, owner of Terra Optima farm in Appleton, which she's run for more than 15 years, had bigger dreams for the farm's community outreach. She initially opened a small, independent store after her eponymous farm in Thomaston, but recently relocated to the Main Street space left vacant by Sweets and Meats in South Rockland. Last week was her soft grand opening. With The Good Tern at the most northern end of Rockland and now Terra Optima at the South End, people don't have to... Read more
Mama's Boys: New Rockport sandwich, pizza shop a family affair
This is Mama... and these are her boys
ROCKPORT — It's not that easy to see from the road on Route 90 (in the building that formerly housed L.O. Gross & Sons), but Mama's Boys has been open a month and is fast becoming an eatery people are seeking out for sandwiches and pizza.
Mama, aka Vivienne Larmor, is the matriarch of the business. "The word of mouth has been awesome; it's been a nice and steady build," she said. Her five boys range in age from 9 to 17, and they have been an integral part of the business — even in the... Read more
Local, affordable and fine dining to go
Belfast’s eatery Scallions takes take-out to a whole new level
BELFAST — The concept is astoundingly simple, yet no one in the Midcoast has ever done it before. This past winter, a little take-out place called Scallions opened up in the Reny’s Plaza mall in Belfast, but lest anyone equate the idea of “to go” with fast food, this eatery is setting itself apart with its fine dining options.
Scallions describes itself as “restaurant quality prepared food to go.” For 14 years, Diana and Charles Evans husband owned The Rhumb Line, a fine dining restaurant in... Read more
Craft brews and fine whiskies: The cornerstone of this chill scene
Rockland's 3Crow hangout features modern American food with a Southern spin
ROCKLAND —With the recent opening in Rockland of 3Crow Restaurant and Bar, Executive Chef and Owner Josh Hixson’s latest restaurant, it appears everything has come full circle. Hixson and his family have lived in Rockland for the last 10 years, and opened their first retail store, Sage Market, there in 2006. When that business eventually closed, Hixson opened his first restaurant, Brevetto Kitchen & Wine Bar, in Camden in 2008, transitioning that to 40 Paper Italian Bistro & Bar, also... Read more
Seabright has a bright future
Camden ushers in new pizza restaurant
CAMDEN — Seabright in Camden is the new kid on the block. At 7 Public Landing, the space occupies what was once Paolina’s Way. Brian Hill, owner of Francine Bistro, opened the new restaurant that specializes in pizza.Though not scheduled to officially open until April 1, Hill and staff hosted a soft opening allowing friends to sample what the restaurant will be like.“Just pizza,” said Hill. “And it’s simplified further than that."Seabright will offer five different types of pizza, but the style... Read more
Menu features dishes from Mexico, El Salvador, Cuba, Central and South America
Latin flavors sizzle with Camden’s latest restaurant, Comida
CAMDEN - For many people, owning one’s own restaurant is the American Dream. Night after night of working in someone else’s kitchen, chefs can’t help dream of what it would be like to run their own kitchen, come up with their own menu, and introduce regional flavors to a new community.
Tom Sigler’s time has finally come. He is the chef-owner, along with his wife, Lisa Laurita-Spanglet, of the new Latin-inspired restaurant Comida on 31 Elm Street in Camden next to Zoot Coffee. They’ve been open... Read more
Handcrafted local gifts in honor of children everywhere
Folks, it's the last week to shop local and in honor of the innocence of children everywhere, this last series is dedicated to crafters who make special things for kids by hand. All of these items can be found through the unique Maine (and green) resource, The SunriseGuide. It’s important to shop local and to support the innovators and entrepreneurs who keep the creative economy alive. Happy holidays to all!
Lincoln Canoe & Kayak handcrafted sleds
The backstory
This Freeport company,... Read more
Shop local series highlights three unique Maine-made goods
A six-pack of beer soap, hand-picked Maine elixers and cards to benefit Hope Elephants
For the holidays, we’re launching a new series to shine the spotlight on local craftspeople who make things by hand. It’s important to shop local and to support the innovators and entrepreneurs who keep the creative economy alive in the Midcoast. So each week, until Dec. 25, we will bring you this series until you can’t take it anymore. Ready. Set. Go.
A Sixer of Home Brewed Soaps
The backstory
Home Brewed Soaps was born out of a love for making soap and a love for beer! Good Beer! Melanie... Read more
Shop local series highlights three unique Maine-made goods
'After almost a year of trial and error and a few bloody knuckles...'
For the holidays, we’re launching a new series to shine the spotlight on local craftspeople who make things by hand. It’s important to shop local and to support the innovators and entrepreneurs who keep the creative economy alive in the Midcoast. So each week, until Dec. 25, we will bring you this series until you can’t take it anymore. Ready. Set. Go.
Woodriver Stones, Inc.
The back story:
It’s clear that Brandon Kimble, who owns Brandon T. Kimble Designs custom furniture and cabinetry... Read more
