ROCKLAND — On Saturday, March 14, the Farnsworth Art Museum’s [Collective] membership group will host its fourth annual BASH. David Troup, the museum’s Communications Officer said: “Annie Brown, our special events manager, felt strongly that we needed to move our annual bash from October to March for two reasons. One, we’re not a Halloween party and two, by March, we’re all ready for a celebration — this year probably more than ever.”

Drawing inspiration from the Hindu festival of Holi, the Collective’s group plans to model the party after the spring festival of colors. During Holi, people of every age and caste play, chase each other and throw dry colored powder all over one another. It’s a uninhibited free-for-all, signifying a spiritual victory of good over evil and a joyful embrace of spring after a long winter.

Sounds just about perfect for the Midcoast right about now.

The Collective BASH, which is open to members and nonmembers alike, will take place at the Farnsworth's Wyeth Center, on the corner of Union Street and Grace Street in Rockland.

“The Wyeth Center is closed right now for the season and all the art is off the wall so we can use this amazing space and completely reinvent it with art installations by local artists,” said Troup.

The main highlight of the party will feature live music in the form of Red Baraat, an eight-piece brass band from Brooklyn, New York. The Village Voice characterized it: "Red Baraat have the locomotion of an army... they're nonstop revelry for any light soul who can match their boundless energy, a fiery blend of raucous Indian bhangra and funky New Orleans brass. The result, needless to say, is completely riotous. Their debut CD, Chaal Baby is an unstoppable blend of Bollywood hijacks and funk freakier than anything Madlib picked up on his trip to India."

“This is considered one of the hottest bands out of Brooklyn,” said Troup. “They’re just incredible, through the roof. They’re on an international tour right now and will be coming back to the U.S., hitting Maine on the way.”

A dance floor, Indian-themed snacks and two bars will round out the festivities. Party goers are encouraged to wear colorful attire. Tickets to this sure-to-be-sold out event are free for Collective members and $20 for nonmembers. The event starts at 8 p.m. For more information or to purchase a ticket, please visitwww.thecollectivebash.com.

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

ROCKPORT—While whipping up a smoked lobster and seaweed salad for the audience during a master class held at the Maine Fishermen’s Forum over the weekend, executive chef Barton Seaver made some salient points about Maine seafood that directly aligned with the Forum’s emphasis on sustainability.

To paraphrase, he said that most of us, when thinking about Maine seafood, have our eyes pointed out to sea with a romantic notion that what drives the seafood industry is somehow out there, unseen on the waves. In reality, we should make a 180-degree turn and look at the houses, trucks and fishing gear of the men and women in our community — for what sustains them to be able to make a living is what sustains us as diners.

“Fish are part of the biological ecosystem,” he explained. “Seafood is the result of human interaction with such, and a fishery as it is defined, is a human economic structure, purposed with feeding people, creating jobs, and enabling traditions and heritage. Too often though, we don’t understand fisheries as food productions systems. Just as you wouldn’t walk into the woods to find a ‘hunt,’ why do we think we go out from the harbor to find a ‘fishery’? A fishery is the sum of millions of decisions made every day by men and women for the purposes of sustaining themselves and providing food for our tables.”

Seaver, who opened seven restaurants and gained numerous awards and acclaim for his food and for environmentally conscious businesses, is known for being a conservationist.

After graduating from the Culinary Institute of America, he traveled to the seaside village of Essaouira in Morocco, where survival is directly linked to the oceans. His time spent with the locals, who taught him generations-old fishing methods and shaped his belief that, at its root, sustainability is both an ecological and a humanitarian issue.

He also pointed out how limited we are when it comes to choosing seafood. In his book, For Cod and Country, he states that even though there are hundreds of types of fish for sale, most chefs are only familiar with a few varieties.

“We have moved away from the Catch of the Day mentality,” he said. “The fact is, we so demand cod that we’re not willing to eat pollock, haddock, hake, cusk, Ling, wolf, monk, dog, or skates — even though it costs the fisherman the same amount of effort, fuel and labor to land that fish. From a culinary perspective, it is equally as valuable and from a health perspective, it equally serves the purpose of a nutritious dinner. But yet, our irrational lack of demand and our narrow scope of culinary ingenuity has forced fishermen to operate in a system that is governed by irrational demand.”

In his talk, he emphasized using locally harvested seaweed in salads. Preparing a dish of sautéed kelp with blood orange and onion, he said, “A dish like this, fresh, beautiful, full of vibrant flavors, balance—that’s what we really need to do, and that’s where I thinks chefs certainly have an opportunity.”

At the same time, he underscored the need as well for the public to open their minds to more locally harvested choices when dining out.

This is the first year that the Maine Fishermen’s Forum had created a special Seafood Celebration event, allowing notable chefs to speak about their process as they demonstrated how to make delicious seafood dishes in front of an audience, many of whom were able to try the creations afterwards.

Chef Lynn Archer, of  the Brass Compass, made a lobster risotto; Chef Brian Hill, of Francine Bistro and Shepherd’s Pie, made a dry roasted rope-grown mussels atop white pine needles; and Chef Dave Pasternack, of Esca Restaurant in New York City, made a  lobster and mahogany quahog and pollock ceviche.

To see more photos of the chefs in action creating these delicious dishes, view our gallery.

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

Pursuant to a story we covered earlier this week, What a bad accident teaches us, 24 year old David Harrington of Washington, who recently suffered multiple injuries from a bad car accident, surpassed his Go Fund Me goal of $800 to buy or rent an electric wheelchair (thanks in part of Penobscot Bay Pilot readers who followed his story.)

He was able to purchase a motorized wheelchair from a person having a yard sale in Damariscotta, who brought it over to him. The wheelchair is going a long way to ease his pain as he gets around. As David said himself as an update on his page, “You guys are so amazing. Your support is more than I could ever have hoped for. Thank you so much!”

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

Welcome to our ongoing feature Behind the Slides, where we meet up with a presenter at PechaKucha Night and find out the deeper story beneath the images the presenter chose to portray.

Meghan Vigeant was one of the presenters of PechaKucha Night, held at the Blue Goose in Northport Feb 27. Like the other presenters, she took the audience through her creative process in a visual storytelling format with a 20-second-per-image, 20-image slideshow. Meghan is a personal historian and owner of Legacy Preserves in Hope, ME. She helps people make books about their lives.

Note: Vigeant's PechaKucha slides appear in the right column. Click on the photos to match them with the actual slide notes (in italics). Beneath the slide notes will be the deeper story.

Personal histories

There was an article in the New York Times about the importance of knowing your family history. In a study at Emory University, kids who knew stories about their family had higher self-esteem. They could handle stress better.

As a personal historian I listen to people tell me their stories, type it up, edit it, add photos and make it into a book they can share with family and friends.

Three types of narratives

The article talked about three kinds of family narratives. The ascending narrative essentially goes like this: "Well, honey, our family came to this country with nothing, but look at us now." The descending narrative goes the other way round: "Kid, we had it all, then we lost everything." The Oscillating narrative: "Sweetheart, we've had our ups and downs. But we've always stuck it out as a family."

The article was followed by a lot of angry comments from folks with descending narratives who didn't want to pass on family legacies of slave-owner ancestors, or mom the alcoholic, or grandpa the child molester. (Of course, sharing these kinds of stories with children deserves careful consideration, and saved for appropriate age.) However, I would argue that both the descending and ascending narratives are incomplete. If you were to dig back far enough, wide enough, or even look at your story, I bet you will find the oscillating narrative.

My own narrative

My great-grandfather, Albert Pepin, a French-Canadian working on the railroads in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, was probably drunk when a train ran over both of his legs. But, he survived, got two prosthetic legs, and learned how to drive. He ran for city clerk, and became a chef.

This is an example of an "oscillating narrative" from my own family.

Great Grandpa

Great Grandpa was doing quite well until he was hit again, this time by a trolley car, and was killed, leaving my great-grandmother Ida to raise their four children. Even though she only had a third grade education, she took in laundry and boarders and sent all four of her kids to college and three of them to graduate school. They went on to become a doctor, an engineer, a dietician, and a businesswoman.

My mother heard this story many times as a child, but she never understood it. They always left out the drunken part. She knew something was missing. It was only until her older brother, aired the family's dirty laundry and let her in on the secret one day that grandpa had a drinking problem.

The best part

For me, (the drunk part) that's the best part of the story. He's not just some martyr who gets run over twice in his life. He made mistakes. To me, it makes his efforts to overcome a disability all that more admirable.

Knowing both our success stories and ugly stories gives us a sense of resiliency. It helps us to see how, despite our faults, we can survive hardships and go on to thrive and laugh about it all.

The good and the bad

My recommendations to you are to find out your stories and share them, the good and the bad. Finally, make it last. Write it down or record it. Make a book or a video. Do something so that your story can be remembered and shared again.

If you're too busy or overwhelmed by the idea of finding and documenting your stories there are personal historians like myself who can help.

 Meghan Vigeant is a personal historian and owner of Legacy Preserves, www.legacypreserves.com. For more information about PechaKucha visit them on Facebook.

Related story: The Way of Karate

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

 It’s a gastric-centered weekend from The Maine Fishermen’s Forum’s seafood master class demo to a Chili/Chowder Cookoff and BBQ extravaganza. And the Maine Restaurant Week is still going on, so don’t forget to check out what some of our local restaurants are serving for an affordable lunch or night out.

Thursday, March 5

· A chef-studded seafood celebration and after party reception is being held at The Maine Fishermen’s Forum at the Samoset today. The noon-4 p.m seafood celebration is free to the public. The following reception, from 5 to 7 p.m., is $25 - RSVP by email maineseafood101@gmail.com. See our story about it here.

·  It’s Fajita Thursday at La Vida Restaurant in Belfast. Buy one Fajita dinner, get one 50 percent off. All day every Thursday. Or join them for happy hour 2:30-5:30 p.m. with food and drink specials and margaritas.

· Green Drinks happy hour is happening at Harvest Moon Pizza in Waldoboro. Green Drinks is an organic happy hour to network with friends and neighbors who care about the region’s lands, waters and natural resources. The event is free and open to the public. Appetizers will be provided and a cash bar of beer and wine will be available.

· Open Mic at Highlands Coffee House from 6 to 9 p.m. Get there at 5:30 p.m. to sign up to perform.

· FOG Bar and Cafe is continuing their Drink and Draw Thursday night from 7-11 p.m. Guest artists come with new themes, and art materials are provided. Happy gour goes on all night. No cover.

· Karaoke at Cuzzy’s, starts at 9 p.m.

· Cappy’s Chowder House is holding game night Thursdays with Cards Against Humanity from 6 to 9 p.m. Meet people who share your sense of humor and enjoy drink and food specials. FMI: Facebook

Friday, March 6

· The Rusty Hinges, an acoustic band, is playing at Rock City Café from 7 to 9 p.m.  No cover.

· Three Button Deluxe is bringing you a little swing, a little rockabilly and a lot of great music at The Speakeasy, 8-11 p.m.

· This is cool. The Farnsworth Art Museum present the first 2015 showing of the international short film series, Rockland Shorts. Titled Scared Silly, the screening will take place at the Strand Theatre in Rockland. Screening starts at 5:30 p.m., followed by an after party at FOG Bar and Restraurant. See our story here.

Saturday, March 7

·  The the nationally recognized and award-winning documentary, Miss Representation, which demonstrates in sometimes shocking ways how girls internalize negative media messages, will be screened in Rockland at the Strand Theatre at 2 p.m. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students and are available in advance at Miss Representation or at the theater box office the day of the show.

· Country Dance at the Union Masonic Hall on Sennebec Road in Union. Music by The Frye Mt. Band, 7-11 p.m., 50/50 raffle, door prizes, snack bar, BYOB. $10 per person.

· Aurora Jazz Project is jazzing it up at Rock City Café from 7 to 9 p.m.  No cover.

Sunday, March 8

· The public is invited to taste, enjoy and judge the Rockland Fire Department Chili and Chowder Cookoff from 2 to 5 p.m. at Trackside Station in Rockland. The cost is $20 per entry with all proceeds benefiting the Muscular Dystrophy Association. For those interested in just attending, the benefit is $10 at the door.

· Watershed will host its 5th annual Ski-A-Thon at the Camden Snow Bowl. With a donation of $20 to the school's financial aid program, skiers ski free and participate in a pledge drive that earns money for every run down the mountain. FMI: will.galloway@watershed-school.org.

· Denny Williams to perform original music at Harbor Square Gallery in Rockland at 2 p.m. $10 at the door.

· Snowmobilers BBQ public event is happening at The Bog Tavern in Waldoboro at 1 p.m. For $15 per person you get BBQ, cornbread, beans, coleslaw and potato salad. Braaaapp Braaaaaap!

· The public is invited to dance the salsa, merengue and bachata at Swing & Sway Dancing, Rockland. Donation requested. FMI: 593-7914. Beginners welcome.

· Rock Harbor Brewing Co. will be hosting a cribbage tournament every Sunday beginning at 8 p.m.

· Musicians, bring instruments and voices and make music together at Sail, Power and Steam Museum at Sharp's Point South, 75 Mechanic St. in Rockland. Free. FMI: 701-5050 or 701-7627. Coffee and cookies provided. Every Sunday, rain or shine.

Want to know where to go for happy hour every day of the week? Check out our updated Guide To Midcoast Happy Hours.

 If you have an arts and entertainment event that fits within the adult scope of fun and cool things to do for Weekend Picks, contact Kay Stephens at news@penbaypilot.com or like The Killer Convo on Facebook and put her on your events email list.

This week’s TBT is a side by side of a renovation done in Camden. It’s pretty obvious where this is, but do you know when the renovation took place?

Last week’s Throwback Thursday photo wasn’t as much of a stumper as I thought it would be, for within seconds, a reader emailed us with the correct answer. David Martin wrote: “That is Mark Island in the center, Saddle Island a bit to the left, and the south end of Lassell's Island at the left. North Haven in the distance.” The photo submitted by Camden Public Library dated the photo as 1933.

This week’s photos submitted by Holly Edwards

Throwback Thursday needs your submissions. Send us your “back in the day” photos with a caption at news@penbaypilot.com

BELFAST — It’s been an up-and-down couple of weeks for Waldo County Woodshed, a new Belfast nonprofit made up of volunteers who work to provide firewood to families in need in Waldo County. Similar to a citizen-initiated food bank, the organization became a 501(c)(3) two weeks ago and were excited to distribute firewood to six families in desperate need of firewood for warmth.

The second to last weekend in February, volunteers worked a half day that Saturday to split and cut four-and-a-half cords of wood that the nonprofit had purchased.

“We had students from Orono College working on a Saturday with our Board members,” said Dawn Caswell, general manager. “We had three cord cut and delivered that day with another cord and half waiting for the families [to pick up].”

At some point during the day after that weekend, a man and a woman in a black pickup truck drove up to the wood yard where the wood was stored and enlisted the help of the wood lot manager (who assumed they were one of the designated families) in loading up not just one, but two truckloads of the wood, clearing the Shed’s inventory completely out. Only a short time later did the Waldo County Woodshed president discover they’d been robbed.

Unfortunately, right around the time of the discovery a couple days later, the designated six families showed up at the delivery spot, hoping to bring back home donated firewood, only to find it bare.

This has been one of the coldest winters Maine has seen in years. That night, the temperature was set to be minus 10 degrees. “These people don’t have heat; they don’t have oil, nothing,” said Caswell. “All we were able to do is send them home with literally an armful of firewood.”

Predictably, the reaction to the theft was shrill, with one person commenting on the Waldo County Woodshed’s Facebook page:

“OMG who could be that rude and careless really. If you see this post you jerk, bring back the wood. You’re not the only one in need while you sit there warm in your house and other families sit there freezing tonight. Wish I had enough wood for the poor people going without because of this ***hole. Not impressed at all. These people go out of their way to help the people of Waldo county and you ruin it. Like I said karma will get you and I hope it gets you good.”

Word began to spread of the situation, and small donations came pouring in from local residents. Woodcutter Justin Gushee donated a cord of split and cut wood. The Waldo County Woodshed was also able to purchase three more cords of wood from Gushee, which he offered to cut for free.

On Feb. 28, locals Adam Way and his wife, Tracy Boardman, took inventory of their own firewood supply and realized they could spare a truckload.  Adam reached out to the Waldo County Sheriff's Office and with two deputy’s help, came by in the late night to load and deliver a half cord of firewood to a new, protected spot for the Waldo County Woodshed.

“They’re not looking for publicity; they just really wanted to donate,” said Caswell. “I didn’t talk to [Way and Boardman] personally, but if I could say anything it would be the support they’ve given the Waldo County Woodshed right now at this time of need is amazing. We can’t thank them enough for what they’ve done.” Since then, two of the families have been able to come back and get wood to last them until the temperatures rise. The four other families are making arrangements to do the same.

Asked if she thought the thieves might be in a similar desperate situation, she said, “I would really like to hope that they really needed it, but they could have just asked us. We have people on the list and it’s typically no more than five days tops before we can get them something, even half a truckload.”

The investigation into the theft is ongoing. If anyone has any tips, please contact the Waldo County Sheriff’s Office at 207-338-6786.

This is the Waldo County Woodshed’s first winter of being able to give wood to deserving families. They’re currently buying more wood and seasoning it for next season. To learn more, follow their Facebook page or visit their website waldocountywoodshed.org

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

WASHINGTON — “I don't really expect anything... but if anyone can help even a little I would be so grateful.”

Last Friday morning, David Harrington had just dropped his wife, Inga Tumanova, off at Waldo County General Hospital in Belfast, where she works in the lab, when he was about to turn into a gas station to grab some gas and a breakfast sandwich. This was their morning routine.

At 24 years old, he is the only one in the household with a driver’s license and each morning he would take her to work from their home in Washington and pick her up again in the evening. On this morning, he planned on going back home to study a particular computer program toward his goal of earning computer certifications for employment.

The police report differs from David’s testimony, but what he remembers is driving 10 to 15 miles per hour, getting ready to turn and another driver going about 25-30 miles over the limit before the crash occurred.

“That’s what I remembered and what everyone I spoke to afterward told me,” he said.

The airbag deployed; his car’s windows and doors were bashed in. At some point, he lost consciousness. An ambulance immediately brought David back to the same hospital where his wife works. “They called down and had another co-worker tell her face to face to make sure she was okay and sent her right over,” he said.

Among his injuries, he suffered a minor concussion with head wounds. One foot was dislocated and his ankle was broken in two different places. His other foot has a small fracture. One of his ribs is broken, as well as one wrist. In addition, he suffered severe internal bruising.

Beyond the car getting totaled, with his wife now having to rely on co-workers to get her to and from work, David faces other obstacles. He is back at home, his days filled with calls to doctors, lawyers, the police and social services, while his studying is left to the side, for the moment. He cares for his two disabled parents at home, who can only give him limited support while his wife is at work. He said his injuries are excruciating, and he has been left largely to care for himself during the day.

He also needs access to an electric wheelchair. The only help he could get was the free use of a traditional wheelchair, which he currently has, but with splints on his feet and the use of only one hand to propel his weight, it’s tremendously painful and awkward to get around.

Inga is covered by health insurance, but since David has been studying to be a computer technician, he said he didn’t have the money for health insurance.

Like a lot of Mainers trying to make ends meet, this accident couldn’t have come at a worse time for the couple. Finding a motorized wheelchair is not a cheap expense, so David started a Go Fund Me page. In speaking with David, it’s evident that he doesn’t like asking for help and it bothers him to have done so, but feeling a sense of desperation, he said he had to.

“This has taught me that everybody needs help at some point and as hard as things have been, it could have been much much worse,” he said. “I’m just so grateful to the people who have helped in any way that they can.”

This has not been an easy winter for many people. The most recent Maine Bureau of Highway accident statistics (2012) show that the number of serious injuries in vehicle crashes is higher than it’s been in the last four years. So, what does a serious accident like this teach someone who is young, uninsured and not prepared for the kind of hard life lessons that have piled up on David? 

For the injured, it puts them in a vulnerable position to re-evaluate what support systems (and lack thereof) they have in place, and either find gratitude in the support they’re lucky to have, or vow to find new support systems once they are healed. This also isn’t just about making health insurance a priority. This can be a hard transformation to come through (especially when re-evaluating friendships and family relationships) but ultimately, it helps sharpen one’s perspective on what’s essential in a newly healed life — and what’s not.

For those coming off a long period of healing, it can heighten one’s sensitivity to the suffering of others. Compassion isn’t just an emotion; it’s a skill. And throughout all of the frustration, fear and anger David is currently experiencing as he makes his way through these obstacles, he said he is learning what it means to help others and allow himself to be helped.

Taking a cue from Bill Packard’s column earlier this week, in our small town communities, everyone seems to know one another. We often talk, compare, and judge what people should or should not have done in certain circumstances, but when someone truly needs help, we drop the “shoulds” and show compassion.

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

BELFAST — With wedding season just around the corner, artist Jennifer Lisa, designer of eclectic jewelry called Quench Metalworks, decided to put a new spin on the old adage “Something borrowed...”

In this new feature, we examine how an artist chose to construct a certain piece — and in this case, a necklace constructed of vintage parts. “I wanted to make something that was an heirloom-worthy necklace for a bride to wear,” she said.

In the design, (pictured), she took a an vintage mother of pearl button with a swan and clipped off the shank on the back. She then applied a piece of her own great-grandmother’s embroidered linen, and added some antique linen for fringe and four pearls.

”The fringe is to provide the illusion that the swan is swimming in water,” she said.

She didn’t make the piece for anyone in particular; she just had the inspiration and put it together. However, now that she has posted some photos from her creations, she’s starting to get calls from brides.

“If a bride has a grandmother who provides a vintage handkerchief, I can customize the piece with that, or say an old postcard sent from a grandfather to a grandmother—anything that builds on a family tradition,” Lisa said.

Lisa, who grew up in south China, Maine, decided after many years of running her own one-woman jewelry business, it was time to open a bricks and mortar store, also named Quench, in Belfast six months ago. Quench is located at 9 Beaver St. Along with her own designs, Quench represents the work of more than 25 artisans and designers from New England and beyond. And there, people can find home goods, pottery, paper and leather goods, jewelry, bags, leather and body care items — all hand crafted by artisans.

To learn more about Quench visit http://quenchmaine.com

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

ROCKLAND — Shorts in winter, it’s what we all look forward to this time of year. The Farnsworth Art Museum and the Strand Theatre are screening the first of the 2015 international short film series, Rockland Shorts, on March 6 and it’s promising to be a hilarious, if not unsettling, evening.

The theme of this year’s short film series is “Scared Silly.” Rockland Shorts Program Director Sally Levi said, “Basically, this series covers everything we’re afraid of, from environmental issues to relationships to really scary content. The theme is a play on fear and each movie has a different take on it. But, we have a lot of comedy, as well as genuinely scary films.”

Levi said two short films that jump out at her (pun fully intended) include Ain't No Fish, directed by Mike Cash and Tom Gasek. The title of this four-minute animation from the UK/US was influenced by the optimistic late 1940s show tune Some Days There Just Ain't No Fish, which centers around oil spills that have had devastating effects on wildlife and the sea.

“It’s really a silly film, but covers a very real subject we’re dealing with now,” she said.

Another film that kills her (I must stop) is Day 40, which is also an animated six-minute short, directed by Sol Friedman from Canada, and described as “an unholy take on Noah’s Ark.”

“This one has a zombie twist,” said Levi.

The evening will have three live Skype interviews with three of the directors as well as a “small special surprise for everybody” said Levi. An after-party with specialty drinks will be taking place at FOG Bar and Grill.

The rest of the lineup for Scared Silly will includes:

· First Prize, directed by Kevin McMullin, live action, U.S.

· One Year Lease, directed by Brian Bolster, documentary, U.S.

· The Man Who Sat on A Toilet, directed by Bernardo Britto, animation, U.S.

· The Lottery, directed by Shahir Daud, live action, New Zealand

· In The Air of Christopher Gray, directed by Felix Massie, animation, U.K.

· Knock, directed by Joseph I. Martinez, live action, U.S.

The Farnsworth's education department is responsible for the series.

The fee for the series is $8 for members and $10 for nonmembers. Tickets will be for sale at the Strand's box office directly prior to the screening.

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

This weekend officially ushers in March and higher temps, so break out the T-shirts and shorts! Across the next four days, because we want all weekends to be four days long, enjoy some  swamp groove and bluegrass, take free dance lessons, check out PechaKucha Night and dance your buns off Saturday night, with three venues to choose from. Bring it on!

Thursday, Feb. 26

· Open Mic at Highlands Coffee House from 6 to 9 p.m. Get there at 5:30 p.m. to sign up to play.

· FOG Bar and Cafe is continuing their Drink and Draw Thursday night from 7-11 p.m. Guest artists come with new themes, and materials provided. Happy Hour goes on all night. No cover.

· Karaoke at Cuzzy’s, starts at 9 p.m.

· Cappy’s Chowder House is doing game night Thursdays with Cards Against Humanity from 6 to 9 p.m. Meet people who share your sense of humor and enjoy drink and food specials. FMI: Facebook

Friday, Feb. 27

· Eric Green and Justice for the River play at the Camden Opera House  at 7:30 p.m. Green’s music is a mix of rustic Americana and ‘swamp groove.’ Tickets are $10 each; children 12 and under are free. FMI: Eric Green

· Blind Albert is back for more blues at The Speakeasy, 8-11 p.m.

· Venus in Fur, the ‘Thinking Person’s ‘Fifty Shades of Grey,’ plays all weekend at the Belfast Playhouse, starting Friday at 8 p.m. FMI: See our story.

· East Belfast Elementary School will be open for a free dance lesson. Earl and Deb Jellison will teach BalSwing, a version of Balboa. Dance upon a large, finished wooden dance floor and listen to the beat on the school’s sound system. The lessons will be 6:30-7:30 p.m., with the regular open dance running 7:30-9:30 p.m. Bring a change of shoes so as to avoid damaging the wood floors.

· K2 Music continues its free Music After Hours series with Bluegrass Night, 6-8 p.m. The public is welcome to stop by and check out all things bluegrass.

· Husband-wife duo The Royal Bones play Rock City Café from 7 to 9 p.m.  These are two musical souls who desire to be honest about their lives, emotions, their faith, struggles and hopes while crafting gorgeous, vocally driven music. No cover.

· PechaKucha Night (that’s Peh-cha Kuh-cha) will host the next evening of lightning-fast presentations and visual storytelling at the Blue Goose in Northport, with doors opening at 6:30 p.m. and the program commencing at 7 p.m. Tickets will be $5 at the door. FMI on presenters and other info: PechaKucha

· Trackside Station is hosting Name That Tune with Annette Lorraine Young, starting at 7 p.m.

· Bowen’s Tavern in Belfast has a DJ playing from 7 p.m. to midnight

· Open Mic at the Time Out Pub downstairs.

· Karaoke at The Myrtle Street Tavern starts at 9 p.m., 21+.

· Celtic Band Jam at Bell the Cat in Belfast goes from 6:30 to 9 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 28

· "Raise the Roof" Contra Dance, takes place at Lincoln Street Center. Get a lesson and light Café Miranda dinner starting at at 6 p.m.  Dance starts at 7 p.m. $10/adults and $8 students/$20 for both dinner and dance. Tickets: HAV II, Camden Real Estate Company and Jaret and Cohn Real Estate (Rockland) or call 542-1990.

· Just Teachers is playing a dance at Point Lookout Resort to benefit CRMS Japan Student Exchange Program from 8 to 11 p.m. Hors d’ouvres will be served. Cash bar. $10 entry. FMI: Benefit

· Another dance! ...with music by True Country, at the Union Masonic Hall on Sennebec Road, 7-11 p.m. $10.00 per person, 50/50 raffle, door prizes, snack bar, BYOB.

· Tom Albury plays prog-folk (progressive folk) at Rock City Café from 7 to 9 p.m.  No cover.

·  Front Street Pub is having a Cuba Libre party! Giveaways and party specials. Starts at 9 p.m.

· American roots and rockabilly band Ragged Jack plays The Speakeasy from 8 to 11 p.m.

· Blind Albert is holding a Blues Jam from 7-10 p.m. at the Highlands Coffee House. No cover and open to the public!

· Two swing dance workshops in authentic Lindy Hop (whoa, talk about a great workout!) are planned at High Mountain Hall, 5-7 p.m. Cost: $10 for one workshop, $18 for both. FMI: Workshop

· Trackside Station hosts the Fireball Girls, a promo with giveaways and drink specials. Music by DJ VJ starts at 9 p.m.

Sunday, March 1

· Snowball, Belfast's inaugural winter festival, will take place at Waterfall Arts and the adjoining Community Ice Rink , 1-4 p.m. FMI: Snowball

· Jazz musicians of all levels are invited to sit in with the Mike Whitehead Group at the Highlands Coffee House in Thomaston. Open to the public; free. FMI: 354-4162.

· The public is invited to dance the salsa, merengue and bachata at Swing & Sway Dancing, Rockland. Donation requested. FMI: 593-7914. Beginners welcome.

· Rock Harbor Brewing Co. will be hosting a cribbage tournament every Sunday beginning at 8 p.m.

· Musicians, bring instruments and voices and make music together at Sail, Power and Steam Museum at Sharp's Point South, 75 Mechanic St., Rockland. Free. FMI: 701-5050 or 701-7627. Coffee and cookies provided. Every Sunday, rain or shine.

Want to know where to go for happy hour every day of the week? Check out our updated Guide To Midcoast Happy Hours.

 If you have an arts and entertainment event that fits within the adult scope of fun and cool things to do for Weekend Picks, contact Kay Stephens at news@penbaypilot.com or like The Killer Convo on Facebook and put her on your events list.

The way the freezy, frozen winter has been going, I thought this was a fairly appropriate photo. Do you know where this is and what island is in the distance? Bonus if you can guess the year.

Only one of you guessed last week’s Throwback Thursday photo correctly.Reader Charlyn Lombaerde said “Dickens Rope Bridge, known as the snowmobile bridge over the Ducktrap at Camp UMaine 4-H Camp & Learning Center at Tanglewood.”

This week’s photo courtesy Camden Public Library

Throwback Thursday needs your submissions. Send us your “back in the day” photos with a caption at news@penbaypilot.com

“I feel like in Maine you’ve just got to pronounce the words like you don’t give a sh** about them.” This comes from a West Coast citizen trying to pronounce Vinalhaven for the first time in a viral video going around created by Movoto Originals via Maine Memes. The short video has six West Coasters trying to pronounce Saco, Vinalhaven, Skowhegan, Isle au Haut, Wytopitlock, and finally Passagassawakeag River.

The name of the town is presented to them along with the phonetic pronunciation, and it’s pretty funny how often the Flatlanders end up sounding like the Swedish Chef.

Now, it’s pretty hard to flub Saco, but they do. As the video progresses, the town name gets harder to pronounce and by the end, even Mainers have to laugh at how badly the last one is butchered. Can you pronounce it?

A real estate company with a sense of humor named Movoto is behind this sharable video. They aim “to create unique, and most importantly, fun real estate related stories.” You can check out more of Movoto’s Maine videos at the following website: movoto.com/blog/?s=maine

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

This weekend is about the highbrow entertainment from the Camden Conference events all over Midcoast to Venus In Fur’s funny, sassy spin on girl power. And don’t forget the Oscars Sunday night with a red carpet event before the festivities.

Thursday, Feb. 19

· To Russia with... love? The Camden Conference kicks off this weekend with a completely cool event at Fog Bar and Cafe with a screening of the documentary, Pussy Riot: A Punk Prayer, about the Russian all-female band Pussy Riot. Admission is free. The film is presented by CMCA in conjunction with the Camden International Film Festival and Camden Conference 2015: Russia Resurgent. Q/A with the film maker will follow the screening. Show goes from 8-9:30 p.m.

· The Postman Cometh plays at The Speakeasy from 8-11 p.m.

· Open Mic at Highlands Coffee House from 6 to 9 p.m. Get there at 5:30 p.m. to sign up to play.

· FOG Bar and Cafe is continuing their Drink and Draw Thursday night from 7-11 p.m. Guest artists come with new themes and materials provided. Happy Hour goes on all night. No cover.

· Karaoke at Cuzzy’s, starts at 9 p.m.

· Each Thursday, Cappy’s Chowder House is doing game night with Cards Against Humanity from 6 -9 p.m. Meet people who share your sense of humor and enjoy drink and food specials. FMI: Facebook

Friday, Feb. 20

· The 220s, a fave of the Midcoast music scene will celebrate the release of their CD at The Speakeasy, 7-11 p.m.,The band weaves the influence of Funk through the base of Prog Rock. They will be playing the songs from the album, in it's entirety, as well as selections from their favorite artists such as Pink Floyd, Al Green, Marvin Gaye, Neil Young, Led Zeppelin, and Sublime. FMI: 220s

· Venus in Fur, the ‘Thinking Person’s ‘Fifty Shades of Grey’ plays all weekend at the Belfast Playhouse, starting Friday night at 8 p.m. FMI: See our story.

· Amy Nicole and Zydeco Soul bring the Big Easy to the Samoset Resort. Cost: $20 advance; $25 at door; $150 advance for table of 10. FMI: 596-6055. Doors open 7 p.m.

· The Rusty Hinges, a  country folk/blues group plays Thinking of Spring concert at The Highlands Coffee House, 189 Main St./Route 1, Thomaston. FMI: 354-4162.

· Singer/songwriter Stesha Cano warms up Rock City Café from 7-9 p.m.  No cover.

· Rockland Food Service is holding its monthly beer and wine tasting from 4-6 pm.

· Trackside Station is hosting an all ages Open Mic and Karaoke evening with Annette Lorraine Young, from 6 to 9 p.m.

· Bowen’s Tavern in Belfast has a DJ playing from 7 p.m. - 12 a.m.

· Open Mic at the Time Out Pub downstairs.

· Karaoke at The Myrtle Street Tavern, starts at 9 p.m., 21+. · Celtic Band Jam at Bell the Cat, Belfast goes from 6:30-9 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 21

· For some real old-timey outdoor fun, the New England Runnersled Championships are taking place on the back side of Hogback Mountain in Montville. Starts at 8 a.m. Shine your runners! FMI: Facebook

· “Hard folk” band St. Huckleberry plays Rock City Café from 7-9 p.m.  No cover.

· The Speakeasy changes musical gears and present Mes Amis, a gypsy jazz combo. Music starts at 8pm and goes until 11p.m. No Cover.

· 3rd Annual Edward Gorey Birthday Catoonery!  In honor of the birthday and genius of Edward Gorey, Maggie Trout brings her Free Art to Atlantic Baking Company in Rockland from 1-3 p.m. Come with your favorite word containing, or sounding like "cat", a cat idiom, expression, or human or feline friend in mind to be drawn as a cartoon, in celebration of the "O of it all" that is Edward Gorey's greatest legacy.

Sunday, Feb. 22

· Rounding out the Camden Conference, author Suzanne Massie (Trust But Verify: Reagan, Russia and Me) will be giving a talk on the culture of Russia at the Owl and Turtle Bookshop will host Suzanne Massie, 2-4 p.m.. Massie will present a talk on her experiences with the people and culture of Russia. 

· The Strand Theatre will again roll out the red carpet for the glittering 87th Annual Academy Awards ceremony with a free live screening. Doors will open at 6 p.m. for the Red Carpet previews; the ceremony begins at 7 p.m., and the broadcast will continue until the last statuette is presented.

· Rock Harbor Brewing Co. will be hosting a cribbage tournament every Sunday beginning at 8 p.m.

· Musicians, bring instruments and voices and make music together at Sail, Power and Steam Museum at Sharp's Point South, 75 Mechanic St., Rockland. Free. FMI: 701-5050 or 701-7627. Coffee and cookies provided. Every Sunday, rain or shine.

Want to know where to go for happy hour every day of the week? Check out our updated Guide To Midcoast Happy Hours.

 If you have an arts and entertainment event that fits within the adult scope of fun and cool things to do for Weekend Picks, contact Kay Stephens at news@penbaypilot.com or like The Killer Convo on Facebook and put her on your events list.

CAMDEN — The Frost Heave Challenge has a winner! Between Jan. 30 and Feb. 8, participating restaurants and bars in the Camden-Rockport area each created a special cocktail incorporating the frost heave theme of this year’s Winterfest and punch cards were distributed to the hundreds of locals and visitors so they could vote on the best cocktail. Bartenders from Cappy’s Chowder House & Restaurant, The Samoset Resort, 40 Paper, Natalie’s, The Waterfront, Smokestack Grill, Shepherd’s Pie and Cuzzy’s Bar & Restaurant all had something special up their collective sleeve. A few thought the contest would naturally favor the bars with the most mixology experience, but imagine the surprise, when the ballots came in and the local “keeping it real” establishment of Cuzzy’s emerged as the winner.

Bartenders Melanie Ilvonen and Heather Fortin came up with “The Warm and Cuzzy.”

“It’s a spin off on the owner [Chris] Cuzzy’s favorite drink with Fireball Cinnamon Whiskey with Apple Pie Midnight Moon moonshine, which has a hint of apples and cinnamon,” said Melanie.  “Then, we add the hot cider. It’s a very simple comfort drink, almost like sipping dessert,” she said. “I think our staff had a lot to do with spreading the news of the drink word of mouth and it was just really popular over toboggan weekend.”

To make the drink, watch our video of Melanie as she puts it all together or try the ingredients at home.

• Rim glass with cinnamon sugar mixture
• 1 jigger Fireball Cinnamon Whiskey
• 1 jigger Apple Pie Midnight Moon moonshine
• Fill with warmed apple cider
• Garnish with cinnamon stick and orange slice

To see all of our past “What’s In That Cocktail” series (with video!), check out our “Iconic Cocktails” resource page: The best craft cocktails in the Midcoast

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

CAMDEN - Camden National Bank President and CEO Greg Dufour was driving behind a school bus one day last winter when he noticed school children get off at a local motel. In the parking lot, there were multiple cars—unusual for the winter, when occupancy is usually way down. So, he inquired about it and found out that it is where homeless families are often put up temporarily.

Midcoast Hospitality House, which opened a year ago, was responsible for this agreement in order to get families off the streets before their facilities opened. The motel continues to serve as an overflow location for people that Hospitality House is unable to accommodate.

The sight of kids living in motels made an impact on Dufour, who, with his wife, Doreen, have three children of their own. It developed into conversations about what the bank could do, and last month, Camden National Bank launched a new initiative called Hope@Home. In 2015, every time someone finances a home purchase through Camden National Bank, the bank donates $100 to Maine's homeless shelters. 

“It wasn’t just one person who came up with this concept; we really wanted to find one cause that wasn’t really on the radar,” said Dufour. “It really took us some time to understand the root of homelessness in this state. We met with a lot of individuals who spearhead homeless shelters so we could research the best way to serve our homeless populations.”

There are approximately 7,500 people in Maine who are currently homeless, which is up 23 percent from 2013. In Knox County alone, there are nearly 400 people in need of permanent housing.

“We know there is homelessness for all sorts of reasons; it comes from addiction, from domestic violence and from unfortunate life situations,” he said. “But it is not for us worry about how they became homeless, just to know that they are. If we can provide money to shelters, and more importantly, engage Mainers and get them thinking about this issue, that’s what we’re aiming for.”

Given the often negative public perception of homelessness that persists, it is significant that a bank has tackled this particular issue head on. Dufour recalled a meeting he had last week with one of the directors of the Hope House in Bangor, which is the second largest homeless shelter in Maine and the only shelter north of Portland accepting homeless people who engage in substance abuse. “When I was talking with them, they said they take in 60-70 addicts a night,” he said. “I asked if they were in recovery, and they said, no, they were active addicts. But, all of their assigned caseworkers know these 60-70 people personally and they’re trying to get them into recovery programs. So, the way I think about it, our initiative is not just giving them a roof over their head at night, it’s helping to save some of these people’s lives.”

Another reason this was a risky initiative for a bank to take is the fact that a great deal of society is still recovering from the financial crisis of 2007-2008, which came about, in part, to unethical practices made by financial institutions and high-risk mortgages that people could no longer pay.

“The more our team discussed it, we realized there were a lot of reasons why we probably shouldn’t be touching this subject,” he said. “I think that it’s something a bank wouldn’t typically want to get into, and we weren’t really sure how people would react. We could have talked ourselves out of it, but we wanted to take the risk and we wanted to shed light on this issue. So what if we’re having some difficult conversations around it, as long as we’re helping somebody.”

This past week, thanks to the customers who made the choice where to allocate their Hope@Home bonus, Dufour was able to take checks to Midcoast Hospitality House in Rockport and New Hope For Women in Rockland. Dufour said they don’t have any restrictions on the money given, as long as the organization is a nonprofit that deals with homelessness in some way.

Kathleen Morgan, executive director of New Hope For Women said, “Camden National Bank's Hope at Home program is inspired. It is a gift to the community when an institution as important as Camden National Bank takes a leadership role and collaborates with nonprofits to improve the lives of others. All of us at New Hope are grateful for the support we receive from this program.”

Stephanie Primm, director of Hospitality House, also voiced her appreciation. “This initiative is incredible on a number of levels,” she said. “All of the services we offer people to get them back to independent, sustainable and productive lives is very expensive, as you can imagine. So, the funding will support all of that. I just commend them for really launching a campaign that is going to raise awareness to help shed light on the problem and help demystify the perception of homelessness.”

Dufour said feedback from his employees about the initiative has been enthusiastic as well. “I had one of my branch managers email me and tell me she was glad we were doing this,” he said. “She said she’d gone to high school with several classmates, who are now homeless. The other thing is, from a company perspective, our employees volunteer a lot in their communities and with this initiative, they are asking how they do even more to help people who are homeless.”

Dufour is encouraged that this initiative will grow organically within the community. “We think the time is right for the homelessness cause to get a little more visibility,” he said. “Maybe this will even spur more people or other businesses to volunteer or donate on their own,” he added, citing how Darling’s Auto donated a van to Hospitality House in order to get residents to their medical appointments and job interviews.

To see more about this initiative including what organizations are being served statewide visit: Hope@Home

For more information visit Midcoast Hospitality House and New Hope For Women

For more on homeless assistance and families needing help with finding permanent housing visit Maine Housing

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

Ah summertime. . .we can only dream. Does this particular scene look familiar to you?

Last week’s Throwback Thursday photo was an easy one; of course it was Camden. Many guessed correctly that the ice wagon was passing by what is now known as Cappy’s Chaowder House and Restaurant, but what we never found out was what the building used to be in 1912 when the photo was taken.

Reader Clifford Blastow wins with this interesting comment: “The ice wagon looks to be coming out of Bayview street in front of Cappy's in Camden. Had to be after 1870 because you can see the old Civil War monument that used to be at the top of the hill. They had power and telephone by then and I see an automobile up the road on the right. I would date it at 1910-1915.

This week’s photo courtesy of the Facbeook page You Knew You Grew Up in Camden-Rockport Maine when...

Throwback Thursday needs your submissions. Send us your “back in the day” photos with a caption at news@penbaypilot.com

Move over “Fifty Shades,” Midcoast Actor’s Studio has a provocative play with lead characters who actually have chemistry.

Venus in Fur is a play-within-a-play currently showing at Belfast’s Playhouse in the next couple of weeks. The 2010 Broadway play, originally written by David Ives, is an adaptation of the 1870 novel Venus in Furs by the Austrian author Leopold von Sacher-Masoch, which happens to be the novel that inspired the term masochism.

Interested now?

Here’s a glimpse of the plot:

Venus in Fur focuses on Thomas Novachek, the writer-director of a new play opening in New York City. The play begins with Novachek on the telephone lamenting the inadequacies of the actresses who have showed up that day to audition for the lead character, Wanda von Dunayev. Suddenly, at the last minute, a new actress, Vanda Jordan (Johannah Blackman), bursts in. At first it's hard to imagine that she will please this very particular and exasperated writer/director: She's brash, vulgar and unschooled. But she convinces him to let her audition for the part of Wanda, with the director/writer reading the part of Severin von Kushemski. Much happens during this dynamic reading, as lightning flashes and thunder crashes outside, with a highly emotional, erotically-charged script adapted from one of the raciest novels of the 19th-Century. They talk, plead, argue, caress and more.

Jason Bannister, founder and artistic director of the Midcoast Actor’s Studio, said it was coincidental that the play opened right around the same time as the movie everyone is talking about.

“We didn’t mean to open it at the same time, but everyone is making comparisons to the movie Fifty Shades of Grey. But, this is much better. There’s definitely humor in there, a play of words in interesting situations.”

The play, directed by Robin Jones, features Tyler Johnstone and Johanna Blackman as the lead characters.

“There’s a big change from beginning to end for both the male and female characters. He’s not really impressed with her when she first arrives as he’s had a long day of horrible auditions, but by the end, he’s been totally transformed by this mysterious creature.”

Asked what what the play’s theme centers around, he said: “Power. I think the tag line that Robin came up with was based on the Oscar Wilde quote ‘Everything in the world is about sex except sex. Sex is about power.’"

Performances continue this weekend until March 1 at the Playhouse 107 Main St. in Belfast. Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sunday matinees are at 5 p.m.

Tickets are $15 for adults and $12 for those over 65. This production is for mature audiences only and limited seating available.

For tickets call the box office at 370-7592, email midcoastactors@gmail.com, visit midcoastactors.org.

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

Is it spring yet? What? There’s more snow coming this weekend? *Starts to ugly cry* This always feels like the half way point to the winter. This weekend is Valentine’s Day or Un Valentine’s Day, whichever you prefer. Whatever you do, enjoy it—we’re in for the long haul.

Thursday, Feb. 12

· Open Mic at Highlands Coffee House from 6 to 9 p.m. Get there at 5:30 p.m. to sign up to play.

· FOG Bar and Cafe is continuing their Drink & Draw Thursday night from 7-11 p.m. Guest artists come with new themes and materials provided. Happy Hour goes on all night. No cover.

· Karaoke at Cuzzy’s, starts at 9 p.m.

· Each Thursday, Cappy’s Chowder House is doing game night with Cards Against Humanity  from 6 -9 p.m. Meet people who share your sense of humor and enjoy drink and food specials. FMI: Facebook

Friday, Feb. 13

· BeauSoleil, Cajun revivalists perform a blend of New Orleans jazz, blues rock, folk, swamp pop, Zydeco, country and bluegrass at the Strand Theatre. They are regular guests on Garrison Keillor's National Public Radio show A Prairie Home Companion, and have appeared on countless stages from the Grand Ole Opry to the Newport Folk Festival. Show starts at 7:30 p.m. and it’s $25.00 admission.

· Happy Un Valentine’s Day at Rock Harbor Brewing Co. with an open mic and their first Un Valentine’s Songwriting Competition, which starts at 8 p.m. With 14 entries
and three judges, this is sure to be highly entertaining. No cover.

· By the Bay jazz trio plays at Rock City Café from 7-9 p.m. The trio performs arrangements of works by many composers from the Golden Age of American Song, as well as numerous Latin rhythm standards.

· The Speakeasy is hosting Shy Green, an original and Grateful Dead tribute jam band. Music starts at 8pm and goes until 11 p.m. No cover.

· East Belfast Elementary School is doing a free dance with Terence and Annette Lee teaching the Jitterbug. The lessons will go from 6:30-7:30 p.m., with the regular open dance running 7:30-9:30 p.m. Bring a change of shoes to avoid damaging the wood floors.

· Bowen’s Tavern in Belfast has a DJ playing from 7 p.m. - 12 a.m.

· Open Mic at the Time Out Pub downstairs.

· Karaoke at The Myrtle Street Tavern, starts at 9 p.m., 21+.

· Celtic Band Jam at Bell the Cat, Belfast goes from 6:30-9 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 14

· Velocipede is heating up Rock City Café from 7-9 p.m. Hailing from Maine, Julia Plumb (fiddle, viola, foot percussion) and Baron Collins-Hill (mandolin, tenor guitar) play original and traditional fiddle tunes from New England, Quebec, Appalachia, Scandinavia, and the British Isles. No cover.

·  Trekkers' are hosting a “V Day Part-tay” at the Samoset Resort. Social hour and cash bar goes from 7-8 p.m.; 7 - 11:30 p.m., hors d’oeuvres and light refreshments, along with a silent auction and 50/50 raffle. Just Teachers, the ever-popular band plays 8-11:30 p.m. Tickets are $15: Call 594-5095 or email: shari@Trekkers.org; or visit trekkers.org/valentines-day-dance-fundraiser/

· Trackside Station in Rockland is hosting a Valentine’s Rockin’ Dinner Dance with Two Dollar Pistol, which begins playing at 9 p.m.

·The Speakeasy is hosting blues man, Blind Albert. Music starts at 8pm and goes until 11p.m. No Cover.

Sunday, Feb. 15

· The Fourth Annual Chili and Chowder Cookoff is happening at Trackside Station in Rockland. Only $10 entry fee will get you some of the best homemade chowder and chili around and benefits Muscular Dystrophy Association of Maine from 2-5 p.m.

· Front Street Pub in Belfast is celebrating Fat Tuesday a little early from Feb. 15-17, serving up all of your New Orleans favorite foods!

· Rock Harbor Brewing Co. will be hosting a cribbage tournament every Sunday beginning at 8 p.m.

· Musicians, bring instruments and voices and make music together at Sail, Power and Steam Museum at Sharp's Point South, 75 Mechanic St., Rockland. Free. FMI: 701-5050 or 701-7627. Coffee and cookies provided. Every Sunday, rain or shine.

Want to know where to go for happy hour every day of the week? Check out our updated Guide To Midcoast Happy Hours.

 If you have an arts and entertainment event that fits within the adult scope of fun and cool things to do for Weekend Picks, contact Kay Stephens at news@penbaypilot.com or like The Killer Convo on Facebook and put her on your events list.

Where is that ice wagon driving by in this photo? Try to guess what year.

Many guessed correctly that last week’s Throwback Thursday photo was the infamous The Spite House. I’m still interested in learning more about the back story of this house, so if anyone has any information, please contact me at kaystephenspilot@gmail.com

This week’s photo courtesy Maine Memory Network.

Throwback Thursday needs your submissions. Send us your “back in the day” photos with a caption at news@penbaypilot.com

THOMASTON — This winter, people aren’t the only ones feeling shut in and restless. Shelter cats are dealing with stress as well, said Pope Memorial Humane Society of Knox County Shelter Manager Theresa Gargan. They’re cooped up and can’t go to the outside play yard due to all the snow and frigid temperatures and in winter time, there are fewer volunteers to give them the personal attention they need. So, earlier this month PMHSKC kicked off a 50 Cat Challenge during which adoption fees for adult cats will be reduced from $50 to $25 until 50 cats have found their forever homes.

 In the last two weeks, the shelter has met nearly half of their goal with 19 cats adopted. And Kickstand is their breakout star.

A few months ago, an 8-week-old tiger striped kitten was found hiding in the grass by Schoolhouse Farms by a person out for a walk. The person picked up the kitten to discover its front leg was dangling at an odd angle. The frail kitten had gotten separated from her mother and had broken her front leg. Hiding in the grass was her only instinct to try and protect herself.

The person, who wished to remain anonymous, rushed the kitten to Harbor Road Veterinary Hospital in St. George, where they left her in the care of Veterinarian Dr. Glenn Yovino and his staff. While getting emergency care, several X-rays of her leg revealed that the break in her front leg was so bad, it could not be saved. She was going to need to have it amputated, but first, she needed to put on some weight before they could put her in for surgery.

She was discharged to the care of the Pope Memorial staff, who took one look at her and affectionately named her Kickstand. After several months in foster care, Kickstand reached the necessary weight and size goal she needed to receive her surgery. Once again, Dr. Yovino provided the operation and care for the kitten.

Sometimes, all it takes is a back story like this to wonder who let all the smoke in the room. Harbor Road Veterinary Technician Michelle Mank volunteered to foster Kickstand during her recovery period. But, once her husband, Bart, laid eyes on the three wheeler, Kickstand wasn’t going anywhere. The Manks decided to adopt her.

Now renamed Pogo, “She's very happy and zooms around our house at the speed of light,” said Michelle Mank. “Three legs has not slowed her down one bit!”

With Pope Memorial investing at least $100 of vaccinations, spay/neuter surgery and day-to-day care into each adoptable cat, the 50 Cat Challenge makes it easier for cash-strapped folks to make the commitment to give stray and other pets in need forever homes.

“People have been in specifically because of this special,” said Gargan.

To find out more visit: 50 Cat Challenge

Pope Memorial Humane Society of Knox County volunteer Heather Russell contributed to this story.
Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

CAMDEN—About six months ago, Ken Foster embarked on a creative and ambitious project. In one year, he planned to draw or paint 250 portraits of friends, colleagues and acquaintances he’s met over the years and title it The Portrait Project.

“I guess what started me on this is that I just wanted to get better at drawing people and experimenting with different colors and types of mediums,” he said. “I do a lot of watercolor, but I also work with spray paint, graffiti type, oils, acrylics, and gouache.”

Foster, who made a career path in architecture, has always been interested in art and decided to take it back up six years ago.  “I started to carry around my sketchbook with me wherever I went and painted, took classes and so on,” he said.

In just six months, his under-the-radar project has yielded more than 150 portraits, many of whom will be recognizable to Midcoast community. “One of the hardest things is to get the likeness of people,” he said. “We all have two eyes, a nose and a mouth, but I’ve been really working on turning it into something that resembles that individual.”

Here are a few portraits he’s done of people in the Midcoast. Using only their first names, he describes his rationale for, choosing each person.

Karen

This is Karen. She got in touch with me a few years ago to help her and a group of kids with the design of a sculpture for a contest that would benefit our local food pantry. The rules of the contest required the kids to collect 1,000 cans of food and then construct a sculpture. My job was to figure out how to build the sculpture using the cans and provide some drawings the kids could use to construct it.

Anyway, she does all sorts of cool volunteer stuff working with the Rotary and youth groups. Also, a couple of years ago she posted a photo a day of her morning walk - amazing sunrise shots of our picturesque little town.

Richard

This is Richard. I wouldn't be where I am today without him. Literally.

About 10 years ago, he walked into my little studio in downtown Camden and asked me if I knew of any architects that might want to move to a really nice space in a building he owned. At the time, I was looking to expand so I told him I would be interested in taking a look at it. I fell in love with the space and rented it on the spot. I have practiced architecture and art here since that day and don't have any plans to move.

Richard is also an entrepreneur and has been an innovator and pioneer in the digital news industry and is a very active member in our local community.

Katie & Jamie

This is Katie. Before I ever met Katie, I knew her twin sister, Jamie, from a painting class I was taking. So, when Katie showed up one Saturday morning for a group ride I assumed it was Jamie and said something, like, ‘Wow! I didn't know you were a bike rider.’ She kindly helped me sort it out the way she probably has done hundreds of times in her life, but my brain still doesn't easily sort this identical twin thing out and that is reflected in this portrait.

Judy

This is Judy. I painted this from a black and white photo taken when she younger (though I'm sure color film existed then). I imagine her outside of her dorm singing a Joni Mitchell or Joan Baez song about a social or environmental cause. She and her husband live simply in a beautiful, environmentally friendly house and grow their own food. She's still singing that tune in the way she lives her life.

Geoff

This is Geoff—one of my very best friends. I don't need to write much about him. For me, the portrait says it all.

Foster said the community has been very receptive to his portraits and has shared many of them around on social media, including Tumblr, Flickr, Facebook and his blog. None of them have been for sale and he’s unsure if he’ll be able to make his goal of 250 portraits in a year’s time, but, he plans on assembling a bunch of them for a show when it’s over.

To see more of his work visit The Portrait Project on Facebook. Penobscot Bay Pilot will follow up with this story once the project is finished and Foster has a show.

All photos courtesy Ken Foster

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

CAMDEN—Fifteen brewers and wineries were braving the cold in their fur-lined hoodies and mittens serving their best Maine winter beers and wine at last night’s Down The Chute Beer and Wine Tasting event held at Hosmer Pond.

The tasting got off to a somewhat rocky start earlier in the day when the tent initially collapsed under the immense snowfall, but by the time the event started, all was put back together and vendors were rarin’ to go.

The two “People’s Choice” winners of the evening were Rock Harbor Brewing Company and Cellardoor Winery. Dan Pease, of Rock Harbor Harbor, was serving up a new Double IPA, made a month ago, along with their Imperial Stout. Both brews were over 10% and were equally popular with the crowd.

Devon Salisbury of Cellardoor Winery said their Sweetheart Wine was the biggest hit. “It’s a Concord grape wine and we jokingly call it ‘Boozy Welch’s because it’s grape juice for grown ups,” she said.

Though the brewers outnumbered the vinters and mead makers, there were people who came just to taste the wines and meads. Sean Bailey of Fat Friar’s Meadery served up a sweet and hot The Fat Friar's Capsumel (12.5% Abv) which came on subtle and ended up hot, hot hot. The only thing left to do was sidle right up next to Ian Anderson of Downeast Cider and cool off the taste buds with their Cranberry blend of cider. “People are loving this,” he said.

New vendors to the tent this year included local brewer, Liberty Craft Brewing as well as Allagash Brewing Company, which provided a delicious taste of their newest Saison. Sweet, almost cidery, it was modeled after a Belgian. Also on hand were Boothbay Craft Brewing, which introduced their new 32-ounce can called “Nice Rack, Dexter Rippa"Red IPA, and Black Rocks Stout.

Food vendors this year were limited to State of Maine Cheese Co. and Bixby & Co. Fruit, Nut and Spice Bars, both of which paired very nicely with an array of stouts that most of the beer vendors provided, along with red wines from the vinters. Kate McAleer, owner of  Bixby & Co., is a sponsor of the toboggan championships, and proudly provided samples of her new Toboggan bar. Outside in the outdoor lounge area, which was new this year, members of the West Bay Rotary Club were busy grilling up hot dogs served with or without chili and potato chips for the hungry crowd.

All in all, it was a fun-packed night.  Good Beers. Good wines. Good crowd.

The Down The Chute Beer & Wine Tasting Event supports the Ragged Mountain Foundation & West Bay Rotary.

All photos by Kay Stephens. She can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

Perhaps English setters Helen and Ingrid were doing a practice run for the annual St. George River Race or cosplaying a scene from Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, but last weekend, their owner, Marci Molloy was in a panic, fearing the worst, when the dogs had gotten loose.

“I lost my engagement ring on Saturday and so, on Sunday, I was tearing the house apart, completely distracted when I let my dogs out,” said Molloy. “When I realized how late it was and they hadn’t come back in, I went to look for them. I called and called, but they were gone.”

Because the snow was so deep, the dogs had managed to slip the electronic fence that kept them contained. So, Molloy went looking for them, following their tracks for awhile, until it became impossible to tell which direction they’d gone.

The dogs are a mother-daughter pair. Ingrid is four years old; Helen is two. They’ve apparently pulled this Thelma and Louise stunt before.

“We figured they’d come back that night,” said Molloy. “I was nervous, but they had taken off before, so Monday morning when the big storm was coming in, I was thinking somebody was going to find these dogs. They’re very friendly; they’ll go to anyone. Their collars have their names and phone numbers. I called everyone I could think of, the Humane Society, the shelters. I put it on Facebook.”

By Tuesday morning, Molloy hadn’t slept all night. “They’re pampered animals,” she said. “I didn’t think they could survive the frigid temperatures and the snow. I was convinced they were dead. I was crying so much, I asked my fiancé to give me a Valium.”

She managed to make it into work, and then to dentist appointment, when she got a text on her cell phone from her ex-husband.

The text said: “I found your dogs...really.”

When she called her ex-husband, Alvin Chase Jr., she asked where he found them and he said, “You’re not going to believe this, but they were standing on an ice floe in the middle of the St. George River between Warren and Thomaston.”

Chase had been driving when he came over the crest of the hill by the Calvary Baptist Church and spotted them. “He always looks at the river because he’s a hunter,” said Molloy, who was in a unique position to know that.

Molloy added, “He saw them floating underneath the railroad trestle. He told me, ‘I wasn’t close enough to see them up close, but I somehow knew they were your dogs.’ ”

Chase pulled in the parking lot and stood up on a snow bank. “He could only remember one of the dog’s names, so he began calling one of them,” she said. Noted earlier for their friendliness to go to anyone, even an ex-husband, the dogs began to jump from ice floe to ice floe at his beckoning. They managed to get over to the river bank. Even though the deep snow drifts made it very difficult for the dogs to get over to him, Chase was able to tamp down enough snow to reach the dogs finally and get them into his truck.

Chase returned the dogs to the house Molloy shared with her fiancé, Ryan Jones, who was the only one home. The reunion probably wasn’t awkward at all.

“I was beside myself when I came home and Alvin had dropped them off,” she said. “I was so happy.” The dogs are now happy to be back home. Ingrid lost a little weight and Helen suffered some rawness on her belly. “Other than that, they’re perfectly fine, all curled up with each other,” she said. “They’re inseparable.”

The only down note to this story? She still hasn’t found her engagement ring.

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

Ice bars, ice bowling, ice catapults, toboggan racing, a snow plow parade, Down The Chute beer and wine tasting, after-party at Cappy’s Chowder House, Banff Mountain Film Fest, Spose at the Camden Opera House, music all weekend—holy schnikes, I gotta catch my breath because this is the MONSTER weekend of the winter, the one weekend in Midcoast where everyone is out of their houses, out of their minds and having a blast!

Here’s your rundown for Winterfest, the US National Toboggan Championships and so much more!

Thursday, Feb. 5

· Camden Winterfest continues with a concert at the Camden Opera House featuring Red Molly with opening acts David and the Lowdown and Miners Creek. 7 p.m. Tickets: $20 in advance; $25 at the door. Visit camdenoperahouse.com/events.cfm

· The Postman Cometh is playing The Speakeasy at 8 p.m.

· The Midcoast cannot get enough of the ice bars! The Brunswick Hotel and Tavern's annual Ice Bar is happening this weekend from Feb. 5-7. Find all the details here:Ice Bar

· Open Mic at Highlands Coffee House from 6 to 9 p.m. Get there at 5:30 p.m. to sign up to play.

· FOG Bar and Cafe is continuing their Drink & Draw Thursday night from 7-11 p.m. Guest artists come with new themes and materials provided. Happy Hour goes on all night. No cover.

· Karaoke at Cuzzy’s, starts at 9 p.m.

· Each Thursday, Cappy’s Chowder House is doing game night with Cards Against Humanity  from 6 -9 p.m. Meet people who share your sense of humor and enjoy drink and food specials. FMI: Facebook

Friday, Feb. 6

· Down The Chute Beer and Wine Tasting kicks off at the Camden Snow Bowl 3-7 p.m. There will be a bonfire, outdoor seating on hay bales, food, and of course, a killer lineup of some of the best breweries and vinters around the state of Maine!

· A Fire and Ice event is taking place at Point Lookout featuring ice bowling, ice corn hole, ice catapults, food, specialty drinks and more. Free. Goes from 5-9 p.m. See our writeup here.

· A dance is taking place at Peter Ott’s On The Water featuring Just Teachers at 8 p.m.

· The Banff Film Festival kicks off their first night with amazing curated outdoor films. Starts at 7 p.m. at the Strom Auditorium at Camden Hills Regional High School. Tickets for adults are $10 in advance and available at Maine Sport on Route 1 in Rockport and Main Street in Camden; price at the door will be $12. Student tickets are $5. See our writeup here.

· Taste test winter-themed drinks at Camden's restaurants during the weekend-long Frost Heave Challenge. Vote for your favorite cocktail! FMI: Winterfest

· Get ready to jump and jive.The Speakeasy hosts Three Button Deluxe. Show begins at 8 p.m. Get ready to jump and jive.

Adam Babcock of the band Tomorrow Morning is playing at Rock City Cafe from 7-9 p.m. This Maine band is known for mass-appeal original music and creative renditions of popular covers that keep people dancing all night.

· Bowen’s Tavern in Belfast has a DJ playing from 7 p.m. - 12 a.m.

· Open Mic at the Time Out Pub downstairs.

· Karaoke at The Myrtle Street Tavern, starts at 9 p.m., 21+.

· Celtic Band Jam at Bell the Cat, Belfast goes from 6:30-9 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 7

· Camden's first ever Snow Plow Parade takes place on Main Street in Camden at 5:30 p.m. The parade will include plows from the town, fire engines from surrounding towns, and private plows and floats. Then there will be a fireworks display at the harbor at 6:30 p.m. FMI: Winterfest

· This is truly the best day for spectators of the 25th annual US National Toboggan Championships to get out on Hosmer Pond and view all the action. Three things not to miss: 1) the costume parade, which starts at noon 2) The Chili Challenge, which goes from 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. and of course, Tobogganville on the ice. Friendliest ice block party you’ll ever go to!

Pop by Cappy’s Chowder House for their annual post-toboggan Shipyard Party 4-6 p.m. in the Captain’s Lounge. There will be free appetizers, $1 off all drafts, prizes and giveaways including a toboggan!

· The Banff Film Festival continues tonight with amazing curated outdoor films. Starts at 7 p.m. at the Strom Auditorium at Camden Hills Regional High School. Tickets for adults are $10 in advance and available at Maine Sport on Route 1 in Rockport and Main Street in Camden; price at the door will be $12. Student tickets are $5. See our writeup here.

One of Maine’s hottest hip hop artists Spose is playing at the Camden Opera House with guest Sly Chi. This is going to be THE place to be for the night after the toboggan races. $25. Doors open at 7:30 and the music starts at 8:30 p.m.Tickets available at camdenoperahouse.com

· What happens when you bring together three talented songwriters, three fine vocalists, and three artists trained in improvisational singing? You get a trio named BRIO! They’re playing at Rock City Café from 7-9 p.m.

·  Trackside Station in Rockland is hosting Toboggan Races Weekend party with DJ VJ at 9 p.m.

Sunday, Feb. 8

· The toboggan races continue today for the die-hard teams competing. A mellower day on Hosmer Pond.

· Rock Harbor Brewing Co. will be hosting a cribbage tournament every Sunday beginning at 8 p.m.

· Musicians, bring instruments and voices and make music together at Sail, Power and Steam Museum at Sharp's Point South, 75 Mechanic St., Rockland. Free. FMI: 701-5050 or 701-7627. Coffee and cookies provided. Every Sunday, rain or shine.

Want to know where to go for happy hour every day of the week? Check out our updated Guide To Midcoast Happy Hours.

 If you have an arts and entertainment event that fits within the adult scope of fun and cool things to do for Weekend Picks, contact Kay Stephens at news@penbaypilot.com or like The Killer Convo on Facebook and put her on your events list.

Well, this photo sure has been generating some lively discussions on the “You Knew You Grew Up in Camden-Rockport Maine when...” Facebook page this week. If you know what this is all about, write a comment. Meanwhile, we’ll be following up with the descendants of this particular house for the bigger story. Photo courtesy Ken Shure.

Only one person guessed last week’s Throwback Thursday photo correctly. Reader Pamela Burrows guessed it was Searsport. More precisely, it was the Tourist’s Inn and Filling Station in Searsport. The photo was courtesy the Penobscot Marine Museum collection via Maine Memory Network.

Throwback Thursday needs your submissions. Send us your “back in the day” photos with a caption at news@penbaypilot.com

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 the most recent foot-high snowstorm slowed traffic on Route 1 to a crawl. “It’s between the middle of things, if that makes sense.”

Hall says he uses Facebook to keep in touch with his customers.

“It’s the best way to get in contact with people and get instant feedback,” he said.

Hall graduated from Belfast High School in 2006 and from the University of Vermont in 2010 in entrepreneurship.

“I opened up my first business, which I still have in Belfast called The Cool Spot,” he said. “I’ve been running that for the last five years now. I was looking for an opportunity that was more year-round and I saw that this place was available. I took a look at it and thought it would be a fantastic place for a wood-fired oven pizza.”

Open just two weeks, the interior has been totally redone from the Thai restaurant that formally occupied it. The hard wood floors are a muted brick red, while the walls are dark with steel light fixtures. Hall’s father made some of the custom-treated zinc tables with the industrial chic look.

“We wanted a warm and modern feel,” he said.

To start with, Hall installed a wood fired oven. The core was made from a special firebrick called Le Panyol derived from quart-laden clay from a quarry in France and assembled from a company in Skowhegan. He had a local mason do the brickwork.

With a stack of firewood lining the counter, Hall said he usually gets the oven going by 9 a.m., so it gets up to temperature by 11 a.m. Throwing a couple of sticks on it every few hours keeps the oven going all day.

“You get more of an authentic flavor from a wood-fired oven,” he said. “You can get the dough to a higher temperature and takes more of the moisture out of it, so you get a crunchy, crispy crust.”

Hall has a simple “choose-your-own” menu for customers and is the go-to pizza consultant when it comes to pairing a particular sauce with a cheese or topping. They offer hand stretched dough, both flour and a gluten-free, which is only $1 more. The specially crafted sauces range from his father’s recipes, including a red sauce, blue cheese, garlic olive oil, basil pesto, a spicy Sriracha and a fire-roasted garlic cream sauce.

As for the meat toppings, he offers local Applewood smoked bacon and buys as much as local produce as he can.

“I look forward in the spring to getting more local produce for toppings,” he said.

Permare is the Latin word for by the sea and with a promising start. Here’s hoping Pizza Permare will be a permanent location in Northport.

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

NORTHPORT — With all the pounding Midcoast has gotten from ice and snow this past week, Point Lookout Resort in Northport has been dreaming up the most fun ways to use it. On Friday, Feb. 6, it is hosting its first Fire & Ice event to tie in with the U.S. National Toboggan Championships. Director of Catering Gerry Hill said, “This is sort of a ‘Get out and embrace the winter because you can’t do anything about it’ event. What we’re planning is to have a ‘Cook your own’ bar with skewered seasoned meats with grills outside where people can make their own food. We’re also going to have a cash bar with specialty drinks.”

Hill said that unlike the Samoset Resort’s elaborately-built ice bar, their event will be more focused around ice activities and games once the sun goes down.

“For example, we’ll be doing ice bowling where the pins and the bowling ball will be made of ice,” he said. “We’ve put these little L.E.D. lights in the ball so you can see it.”[As Point Lookout’s Bowling Center features eight lanes of 10-pin bowling, this is apropos.] “We’re also going to offer a corn hole toss game with little ice bags.”

In addition to the outside games, Hill is excited to unveil, what he calls the pièce de résistance.

“We’re going to have an ice bomb launcher. We took little water balloons and froze them. Then we put these L.E.D. lights in them and we’ll catapult them across the field 50 yards into galvanized tubs. And if one of the ice bombs hits the tub, you’ll get a prize.”

Check out our short clips on ice bowling and the ice catapult. The event goes from 5-9 p.m. and is free to the public.

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

Local resident Caitlin M. made this Leaving Maine In Winter bingo card for a friend who was about to go on a trip.

Some of the squares are pretty funny. “Not chatting about heat costs” and “light pollution” are a few of the cheeky quips.

What about it, Mainers? What’s the best part about leaving in Maine for a winter vacation for you?

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

ROCKPORT—This weekend, Maine Sport Outfitters is hosting the Banff Mountain Film Festival for its 15th year and the lineup includes 18 new films, ranging from shorts to longer features and from outdoor superhuman feats to heart-tugging documentaries.

Jeff Boggs, manager and buyer for Maine Sport Outfitters said:  “All of the films are so different and so fun. The films are inspiring, educational, sometimes emotional/controversial. They take you to places and activities you may not have been exposed to. It's a great way to spend a wintry February evening.”

On Friday, breakout films are sure to include: Caleb, a four-minute short.

“Paralyzed in a skiing accident in 2007, Caleb has defied the odds and continued to thrive in his chosen passions. Learning to kayak after his injury, Caleb is positive, inspiring and one epic human!” See film clip here.

Another is And Then We Swam, a 37 minute film.

“Most adventurers who set out to cross the Indian Ocean have some rowing experience. For two blokes from the UK, that seemed like a minor detail, not a death wish.” See film clip here.

And on Saturday, films of note include: Tumwater Solitude: “With peak flow levels in Washington’s Tumwater Canyon, Sam Grafton sets out to kayak massive waves and Class V+ whitewater.” See film clip here.

And a film that will pull the heartstrings is Tashi and the Monk:

“There's a brave social experiment taking place on a remote mountaintop in the foothills of the Himalaya. A former Buddhist monk is seeking to transform the lives of abandoned children through love and compassion. Tashi is especially vulnerable as she struggles to make friends, and learns that love can help heal even the saddest memories.” See film clip here.

With the Canadian festival in its 37th year, the Banff Center holds the festival every November in Banff, Alberta, selecting the best films to go on the World Tour that visits approximately 305 cities annually in 20 countries.

To see an excerpt of what films will be showing visit Maine Sport Outfitters event page.

Tickets are on sale for the local visitation of the Banff Mountain Film Fest World Tour, set for Friday and Saturday nights, Feb. 6 and 7, at the Strom Auditorium of Camden Hills Regional High School in Rockport. Each night’s show begins at 7 p.m. and features a different slate of films. Tickets for adults are $10 in advance and available at Maine Sport on Route 1 in Rockport and Main Street in Camden; price at the door will be $12. Student tickets are $5. For more information, call 236-7120 or 230-1284. Clips of some of the films may be seen in the Rockport store.

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

WALDOBORO—In every classroom, there’s always that one young person drawing cartoons in the corner of his notebook, or maybe on his arm or on his sneaker. The same kid who maybe struggles to write an essay is quite adept at communicating through scribbled images instead. Many young people have compelling stories to tell, but haven’t quite found their “voice” yet or know the best medium.

It’s this type of kid, a visual learner, who finds his or her “voice” sketching out characters that will be ideal for an upcoming workshop in Waldoboro called “Visual Storytelling” held over six Sundays in February.

Tyson Pease, an illustrator and comic artist, joined forces with his friend Robert Laing, an animator, to teach this workshop starting February 8.

On Pease’s website he describes his aim to combine comics and education. He said: “My specific areas of focus are comics/illustration, building community, and alternative education. I want to share stories that interest me. I want to bring people together. And I want to help them show the world their best through creative practice.”

Pease, 29, got his undergraduate degree with philosophy major with writing and arts minor at Ithaca College. He just finished his master's of fine arts degree in interdisciplinary arts with Goddard College and currently lives in Wayne.

"Comics for me has been a fruitful, expressive medium," he said. "Some kids excel in academic writing or math. In our workshop, we're hoping to reach kids who may not have as great a track record in expressing themselves through those traditionally emphasized subjects, ones who can really get some traction sharing visually what they think and feel. The great thing about comics is that it's just so easy. You don't need expensive materials. You just need a paper, a pencil or pen and a willingness to give it a shot."

Laing, 29, who grew up in Waldoboro, is a 2010 graduate of the Art Institute of Boston and now works as a freelance animator. “One of the first jobs I had out of school is teaching at Cambridge Community Television in Boston and I had a really good time connecting with the students,” he said. “Working with students again and sharing some of the things I’ve learned helps keep me excited about animation and adds to my freelance repertoire.”

To see the work of Laing’s animation visit: http://vimeo.com/111660457  To see a sample of Pease’s comics visit: http://tysonpease.com

The workshop is aimed toward ages 13 and up. But they’re also open to kids younger than that if they are super driven. Classes go Feb. 8, 15, 22 and March 8, 15, 22. The course cost is $90 with materials and will be held at Old Number 9 on Friendship Street in Waldoboro. To register, call the Central Lincoln County YMCA at 563-9622 or visit: medomakarts.org

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

 I’ll give you hint; this is Main Street somewhere on the coast. Do you know where?

A few people guessed correctly that last week’s Throwback Thursday photo was actually the Belfast wharf circa 1934 as the old fashioned pick ups dumped snow off the wharf. Photo courtesy Belfast Historical Society and Museum.

This week’s photo courtesy Maine Historical Society.

Throwback Thursday needs your submissions. Send us your “back in the day” photos with a caption at news@penbaypilot.com

Winterfest kicks off this weekend and besides that, there’s a 1920s-themed party, Irish tunes, roller derby and don’t forget—Superbowl parties!

Thursday, Jan. 29

· Open Mic at Highlands Coffee House from 6 to 9 p.m. Get there at 5:30 p.m. to sign up to play.

· FOG Bar and Cafe is continuing their Drink & Draw Thursday night from 7-11 p.m. Guest artists come with new themes and materials provided. Happy Hour goes on all night. No cover.

· Karaoke at Cuzzy’s, starts at 9 p.m.

· Each Thursday, Cappy’s Chowder House is doing game night with Cards Against Humanity  from 6 -9 p.m. Meet people who share your sense of humor and enjoy drink and food specials. FMI: Facebook

Friday, Jan. 30

· Poetry Party! Why not? Dave Morrison reads from and celebrates the release of his 10th collection, Shake Hands With Your Heart. Camden Opera House, 7 p.m. Free.

· John Hasnip (as a crazy cat lady I read his last name as ‘Has cat nip’) an alternative electroacoustic, Britpop guitarist will be playing The Narrows Tavern in Waldoboro at 8 p.m. No cover. Give a listen: Reverbnation

· The Speakeasy hosts The Midnight Riders. Show begins at 8 p.m.

· Bowen’s Tavern in Belfast has a DJ playing from 7 p.m. - 12 a.m.

· Open Mic at the Time Out Pub downstairs.

· Karaoke at The Myrtle Street Tavern, starts at 9 p.m., 21+.

· Celtic Band Jam at Bell the Cat, Belfast goes from 6:30-9 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 31

· Camden’s Winterfest kicks off today with ice carving in the Camden Public Library Amphitheatre, live music indoors and out, and food from noon to 3 p.m. Maine’s only sanctioned snow sculpture competition takes place at the Village Green while the "CamJam" Freestyle Ski and Snowboard Competition takes place at the Camden Snow Bowl from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. See pics from last year. Full schedule: Winterfest

· The roller derby girls are cranking their wheels at Point Lookout Fitness Center in Northport. The Rock Coast Rollers vs. The R.I.P. Tides benefits the AIO Food Pantry. Starts at 5:30 p.m. Tickets: $8 advance at BrownPaperTickets.com. Or get them at Good Tern Co-op, Rockland, Belfast Co-op; and Clean Bee Laundry. $10 door. Under 12 free.

· Go back to the 1920s with ‘Twenties Theme Night’ featuring The Spaceheaters,  a jazz, jam, and funk 'n' roll band at The Narrows Tavern in Waldoboro. 1920s or '30s attire encouraged. Special cocktails of the decade. 9 p.m. No cover.

· Join local musicians for an informal evening of traditional Irish tunes and a few songs at Rock City Café from 7-10 p.m. Some toe-tapping tunes (and maybe a hot toddy) are guaranteed to warm a chilly winter evening.

· Watts Hall, Main St., Thomaston is hosting a ‘Blue Moon Birthday Party’ from 6-9 p.m. Food catered by Café Miranda and dance music by Hoodoo Man. Free.

· The Boneheads & Holy Mackerels are playing at the Opera House in Boothbay Harbor 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $10 advance/$15 day of show. Visit: BoothbayOperaHouse.com or call 633-6855.

Trackside Station in Rockland is hosting Trendy Robots band at 9 p.m. No cover.

Sunday, Feb.1

· Winterfest’s "CamJam" Freestyle Ski and Snowboard Competition continues the Camden Snow Bowl at 2:30 p.m. and winners of the Snow Sculpture competition will be announced at noon.

· A live broadcast of Super Bowl XLIV will be shown at the Strand Theatre. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., kick-off is at 6:30 p.m. Hot dogs, chili, snacks and drinks will be available for purchase, and the Balcony Bar will open for those 21 and older. Admission is free.

· Rock Harbor Brewing Co. will be hosting a cribbage tournament every Sunday beginning at 8 p.m.

· Get some fresh salsa right here. Swing & Sway Dancing is holding a salsa, merengue and bachata workshop for the public from 6-7:30 p.m. Located at 143 Maverick St., Rockland. Donation requested. FMI: 593-7914. Beginners welcome.

· Musicians, bring instruments and voices and make music together at Sail, Power and Steam Museum at Sharp's Point South, 75 Mechanic St., Rockland. Free. FMI: 701-5050 or 701-7627. Coffee and cookies provided. Every Sunday, rain or shine.

· Want to know where to go for happy hour every day of the week? Check out our updated Guide To Midcoast Happy Hours.

 If you have an arts and entertainment event that fits within the adult scope of fun and cool things to do for Weekend Picks, contact Kay Stephens at news@penbaypilot.com or like The Killer Convo on Facebook and put her on your events list.

CAMDEN—An epic blizzard of what news outlets are calling “historic” proportions is barreling up the coast tonight—and Mainers are not fooling around.

As of 3 p.m., the parking lot of Hannaford Supermarket in Camden was jammed right full, and the shelves that contained gallons of water were completely cleared out. “It’s been slammed,” said store manager Ben Convery. “The usual things, milk, eggs, bread, water. Everyone’s thinking about if they’ll lose power, so they’re getting stocked up.”

After food and water come the practicalities. Jacob Veilleux, a cashier at EBS, said, “The people have definitely been coming in for shovels, for some kindling, and a lot of batteries,” he said. “A lot of batteries.”

While some folks spent the better part of their afternoon chopping wood and stacking it, the fuel companies were busier than normal handling last minute orders. “We have definitely been getting a lot of calls today,” said a representative for Maritime Energy.

People bracing for high winds to knock out the power have already thought ahead about what can entertain them by candlelight and by limited reserve battery power. At the Rockport Public Library, Ben Blackman, Deputy Director, said, “Oh it’s been busy. They’re trying to get videos or books they’ve already ordered that won’t be coming in tomorrow. They’re just stocking up.” For those who don’t have a Rockport Public Library card, the lobby offers free donated magazines and several racks of paperbacks at .50 each.

“We’ve been slammed all day,” said Lynn Mayberry, a clerk at Harbor Audio Video, “As far as I know we’re just planning on being closed tomorrow. “Any movies that are due back tomorrow, no need to bring back,” she said.

At Maritime Farms convenience store, it was like a scene out of The Day After Tomorrow. The lines for gas were two-three cars deep with some people getting repeatedly edged out by others cutting in line and foot traffic going through the store at a steady pace. At 4:15 p.m. Maritime Farms was out of gas. Circle K in Rockport had some gas left, and motorists were flocking there.  “After work, we’re going to be seeing a lot of people stocking up on alcohol,” said one of the clerks.

Get out that winter copy of The Wave in which we tell you how to keep sane during a power outage!

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

This weekend is the wind-down before we gear up for the madness of Winterfest and the U.S. National Toboggan National Championships, so enjoy the jazz and acoustic sets happening all around the Midcoast. Oh, and one more weekend left for the Glacier Ice Bar for those who didn’t make it last weekend!

Thursday, Jan. 22

· Open Mic at Highlands Coffee House from 6 to 9 p.m. Get there at 5:30 p.m. to sign up to play.

· FOG Bar and Cafe is continuing their Drink & Draw Thursday night from 7-11 p.m. Guest artists come with new themes and materials provided. Happy Hour goes on all night. No cover.

 · The Speakeasy hosts Wayne DeLano Jazz Quartet. Show begins at 6 p.m.

· Karaoke at Cuzzy’s, starts at 9 p.m.

· Each Thursday, Cappy’s Chowder House is doing game night with Cards Against Humanity  from 6 -9 p.m. Meet people who share your sense of humor and enjoy drink and food specials. FMI: Facebook

Friday, Jan. 23

· This is the last weekend Glacier Ice Bar will be at the Samoset Resort (down on the deck of Enoteca Lounge). Chef Tim Pierce knocked it out of the park this year — a must see! Opens at 5 p.m. Wear something warm!

· Rock City Café will be hosting By the Bay Jazz Trio from 7-9 p.m.

· Talented Maine musicians in their their debut concert at the Camden Opera House will feature Kristi Williamson, accompanied by Amy Green and Vicky Andres will be performing with Max McFarland. Tickets are $10, age 12 and under FREE! FMI: Concert info.

· Rock Harbor Brewing Co. is hosting Mark Miller, a solo performer from 8:30 -11:30 p.m.  No cover.

· The Ale House String Band is playing at The Narrows Tavern at 8 p.m.

· Bowen’s Tavern in Belfast has a DJ playing from 7 p.m. - 12 a.m.

· Open Mic at the Time Out Pub downstairs.

· Karaoke at The Myrtle Street Tavern, starts at 9 p.m., 21+.

· Celtic Band Jam at Bell the Cat, Belfast goes from 6:30-9 p.m.

· Voxx Rocks! The midcoast a cappella vocal ensemble VoXX is doing its annual "Music for the NewYear" Concerts, covers a broad spectrum of time and style, from medieval chant and early polyphony, through Renaissance chorale and contemporary harmony. First Church, 8 Court St., Belfast, 7:00 p.m. Admission is $10, tickets available at the door.

· Belfast couple Chuck and Teresa Piper are offering a free dance lesson on the large wooden floor of the East Belfast Elementary School. Bernadette Dempsey will teach Salsa from 6:30- 7:30 p.m., with the regular open dance running 7:30- 9:30 p.m. Bring a change of shoes so as to avoid damaging the wood floors. Admission is free.

Saturday, Jan. 24

· This is the second night of The Glacier Ice Bar. Tonight is your last chance before they dismantle. Starts at 5 p.m.

· Prog rock guitarist Tom Albury will be playing at Rock City Café from 7-9 p.m.

· Mes Amis brings their upbeat acoustic groove to The Speakeasy featuring the trio of Steve Lynnworth on lead guitar and vocals, Harry Richter on rhythm guitar and Wells Gordon on upright bass. Show is from 8-11 p.m.

· Trackside Station in Rockland is having a pie-themed night with pie-flavored drinks (yum!) from 5-7 p.m. for entertainment with Mike & Max Miller & guests and a silent auction as a kickoff to Pies on Parade with proceeds donated to AIO Food Pantry.

· Voxx Rocks! The midcoast a cappella vocal ensemble VoXX is doing its annual "Music for the NewYear" Concerts, covers a broad spectrum of time and style, from medieval chant and early polyphony, through Renaissance chorale and contemporary harmony. Union Hall, 24 Central St, Rockport, 2:00 p.m. Admission is $10, tickets available at the door.

Sunday, Jan. 25

· Rock Harbor Brewing Co. will be hosting a cribbage tournament every Sunday beginning at 8 p.m.

· Get some fresh salsa right here. Swing & Sway Dancing is holding a salsa, merengue and bachata workshop for the public from 6-7:30 p.m. Located at 143 Maverick St., Rockland. Donation requested. FMI: 593-7914. Beginners welcome.

· Musicians, bring instruments and voices and make music together at Sail, Power and Steam Museum at Sharp's Point South, 75 Mechanic St., Rockland. Free. FMI: 701-5050 or 701-7627. Coffee and cookies provided. Every Sunday, rain or shine.

Want to know where to go for happy hour every day of the week? Check out our updated Guide To Midcoast Happy Hours.

 If you have an arts and entertainment event that fits within the adult scope of fun and cool things to do for Weekend Picks, contact Kay Stephens at news@penbaypilot.com or like The Killer Convo on Facebook and put her on your events list.

 Where is this and take a guess what year?

Wow, we got a TRUCKLOAD of comments on last week’s Throwback Thursday photo featuring the iconic Dave’s Restaurant in Thomaston, one of the best coming from reader Rosemary Dunton Booth who said: “Dave's was a popular place for our Family! My grandpeoples use to go there on dates! That's where I was taught how to go out to eat properly as a child. I was one of those who would run around and talk to other diners and play with the silverware on tables (LOL), so I was taught how to sit and behave out in public.”

This provider of this week’s photo will be revealed next week so as not to reveal the photo’s identity!

Throwback Thursday needs your submissions. Send us your “back in the day” photos with a caption at news@penbaypilot.com

CAMDEN — The former owners of the Ducktrap Motel in Lincolnville, Rick and Elaine Knight, thought they’d be heading into retirement, but apparently that’s not what life had in store for them.

Early in December, a notice quietly went up that Ricky and Selena Sheaves, the owners of the Owl & Turtle Bookshop in Camden, were independently putting the shop on the market. After nine months of building the business back up to a robust state (including adding a new café), they decided to re-prioritize and sell the business to spend more time with their children.

Elaine Knight had been dabbling in real estate at the time and brought the listing home to her husband. ”We sort of went over it,” she said. “He just thought it was a whim, but sure enough, one thing led to another and here we sit. It’s been a whirlwind.”

The Knights took over and re-opened the bookstore last week, retaining the original Owl & Turtle staff, whom they said they depend on tremendously.

“We rely on them to tell us what books we should be buying, what the public wants and who we should be booking to host author talks,” said Elaine. “They’re the experts; we’re not the experts. We just funded it.”

Both native Mainers, the Knights owned the Ducktrap Motel for 10 years before they sold it. “We loved it, but that was a 24-7 business,” said Rick. “People would knock on our door at 2 a.m. because they lost their key. Here, it’s 12 hours, but once it’s 4 p.m., we lock the door and go home.”

Maintaining the Sheaves’ motto of “Fiercely indie, truly local,” the Knights said they plan to continue the same direction with the bookstore. Rick said, “We’re going to keep going with what was working, keep analyzing as everyone goes along.” Rick, whose literary tastes lean toward historical fiction, and Elaine, whose tastes run the gamut, said they intend to host an author at least once a month and want to continue promoting local Maine authors in their store.

Alexis Zimba-Kirby is one of the original Owl & Turtle staff. As she sat behind the café station, checking the iPad, she talked about the transition.

“We knew it was coming; the Sheaves were open with us about the whole process,” she said. “So far, it’s worked out really well and they [the Knights] have been really supportive of the whole staff.” An avid reader (she was reading The Dubliners by James Joyce at the counter), Zimba-Kirby said in her time at Owl & Turtle, she’s gotten a real feel for what the clientele coming in is looking for.

“I think we’re just going to do more events and still keep this café going. We have a great morning crowd and an afternoon push most every day.”

She added that she’s going to miss the Sheaves, but that she still sees them. “They’ll still sticking around town,” she said.

Related story: New Owl & Turtle owners bring 'fiercely indie—truly local' vibe to bookshop

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

ROCKLAND—The debut weekend of the Samoset Resort’s annual Glacier Ice Bar was more popular than ever, bringing out nearly 800 people this weekend, despite near frigid temperatures. Check out our gallery of “ice selfies” and other unique features by master ice carver and Samoset’s Executive Chef Tim Pierce, including a life size motorcycle you could sit on (would that be an icicle?), a VW bus and Glacier picture frames. The Glacier Ice Bar is only around for one more weekend—Jan. 24 and 25. So enjoy it while you can!

All photos by Kay Stephens

Click to see gallery.

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

We’ve got a sunny, seasonable weekend coming up before the snow hits the fan early next week and you know what that means? It’s going to be ideal standing-out-and- doing-ice-luges-with-friends weather for the Samoset’s annual Glacier Ice Bar. Or if you prefer to stay inside, check out Three Tides & Marshall Wharf Brewing Company’s annual “Snowed In” dance party. Things will be ramping up in the Midcoast between this weekend and the National Toboggan Championships, so suit up (even if its a snow suit), away we go!

Thursday, Jan. 15

· Open Mic at Highlands Coffee House from 6 to 9 p.m. Get there at 5:30 p.m. to sign up to play.

· FOG Bar and Cafe is continuing their Drink & Draw Thursday night from 7-11 p.m. Guest artists come with new themes and materials provided. Happy Hour goes on all night. No cover. 

· Karaoke at Cuzzy’s, starts at 9 p.m.

· Each Thursday, Cappy’s Chowder House is doing game night with Cards Against Humanity  from 6 -9 p.m. Meet people who share your sense of humor and enjoy drink and food specials. FMI: Facebook

Friday, Jan. 16

· We first told you about it in The Wave, but the Glacier Ice Bar, now in its fourth year, is being built out of 20,000 pounds of ice at the Samoset Resort (down on the deck of Enoteca Lounge The brilliant ice bar and all of its sparkling chairs and statues will bring out about 800-900 people each night this weekend. Opens at 5 p.m. Wear something warm!

· Rock Harbor Brewing Co. is hosting Tomorrow Morning duo from 8 -11 p.m.  They play Pop/ Rock/ Top 40/ Dance/ Reggae/ Hip Hop. Take a listen on Reverbnation.  No cover.

· Solo acoustic performer Ron Bergeron is playing at The Narrows Tavern at 8 p.m. Their music is described as classical and traditional.

· The Speakeasy is hosting The Postman Cometh with singers and standards, featuring Bill Hahn, Keyboard King.  Show goes from 6-8 p.m., no cover.

· Bowen’s Tavern in Belfast has a DJ playing from 7 p.m. - 12 a.m.

· Open Mic at the Time Out Pub downstairs.

· Musician duo Ryer & McCue will be playing Rock City Café. Show goes from 7-9 p.m. with a traditional singing/guitar style with carefully creative and tasteful McCue accompaniments, laced with blues, rock, country and jazz overtones.

· Karaoke at The Myrtle Street Tavern, starts at 9 p.m., 21+.

· Celtic Band Jam at Bell the Cat, Belfast goes from 6:30-9 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 17

· This is the second night of The Glacier Ice Bar. If you don’t go this weekend, next weekend is your last chance before they dismantle i1 Starts at 5 p.m.

· Get ready to jump and jive since Three Button Deluxe is playing at The Speakeasy. The dance party is going to get you pumped, starting at 8 p.m.

· Dance your butt off at Three Tides & Marshall Wharf Brewing Company in Belfast for their 7th annual “Snowed In” dance party. No cover, 21+ Music starts at 9p.m.

Sunday, Jan. 18

· Rock Harbor Brewing Co., will be hosting a cribbage tournament every Sunday beginning at 8 p.m.

· Master ice carver Tim Pierce must be a glutton for punishment. Not only did he build the Glacier Ice Bar and work all weekend at the Samoset Resort for its grand debut, he he’s not taking a day off! The Camden Public Library will host a live ice-carving demonstration with Pierce at 1 p.m.

· Get some fresh salsa right here. Swing & Sway Dancing is holding a salsa, merengue and bachata workshop for the public from 6-7:30 p.m. Located at 143 Maverick St., Rockland. Donation requested. FMI: 593-7914. Beginners welcome.

· Musicians, bring instruments and voices and make music together at Sail, Power and Steam Museum at Sharp's Point South, 75 Mechanic St., Rockland. Free. FMI: 701-5050 or 701-7627. Coffee and cookies provided. Every Sunday, rain or shine.

· Unwind after brunch. The Mike Whitehead Group will be performing at Highlands Coffee House, from 1-3 p.m. Call 354-4162 for more info.

Want to know where to go for happy hour every day of the week? Check out our updated Guide To Midcoast Happy Hours.

 If you have an arts and entertainment event that fits within the adult scope of fun and cool things to do for Weekend Picks, contact Kay Stephens at news@penbaypilot.com or like The Killer Convo on Facebook and put her on your events list.

This week’s TBT photo isn’t so much about “guess where it is,” but more along the lines of “how did you know this place?” Tell us your memories!

Though we had a few guesses for last week’s Throwback Thursday photo, nobody got the right town or era. That bucolic scene was Main Street in Wiscasset circa 1930!

This week’s photo courtesy Rockland, Maine History

Throwback Thursday needs your submissions. Send us your “back in the day” photos with a caption at news@penbaypilot.com

LIBERTY — Right before the holidays, the owners of the unpolitically correct party card game Cards Against Humanity had a surprise for 250,000 of their fans, each of whom bought a $15 “Mystery Package.” Not knowing what they’d get, the fans learned that the money went toward 10 surprises, the final present being the purchase of Liberty’s six-acre Birch Island on Lake St. George for approximately $200,000. One square foot each of the island, now renamed Hawaii², belongs to 250,000 fans of Cards Against Humanity all around the United States.

When news broke of this holiday stunt, reactions locally and on social media were mixed. On the one hand, fans of the card game were elated that Cards Against Humanity was able to pull off such a random, impromptu stunt.

When the news hit, multiple owners of the property announced on CAH’s Facebook page of their plans.

• I really want to plant a letterbox on my square foot.
• I think we should all plan one big party for all of our square feet!
• It would be cool if somehow we all were able to build something for us to all share on it.
  
• We need to start a massive road trip, a convoy if you will. And then start a week long camp out, like Burning Man, but nothing at all like it. 
• I'm claiming a tree, and making a tree fort!

It’s hard to say whether these are just excited exclamations or actually statements of intent, but it raised a number of concerns with locals.

The island is officially owned by Hawaii2, LLC and the stipulations of each owner’s contract are that they can use the island for "nondestructive, recreational purposes."

The rules additionally include that the new owners strictly abide by carrying out their trash, refrain from cutting any trees and do not build any fires without a local fire permit.

In Cards Against Humanity’s license agreement for the owners, it said:

“This square foot of land is yours to do what you want, as long as you don’t destroy it or break any laws. We’ve enclosed a small flag you can use to mark your territory.”

Penobscot Bay Pilot spoke with Linda Breslin, president of the Lake Association of Lake St. George, in Liberty.

“What they’ve done is perfectly legal,” she said. “They bought it. They own it. We may not like it, but we don’t have a legal right to tell them how they can use it.”

Breslin is not only the president, but she and her husband own an island property owner on Lake St. George.

She said: “This is a different kind of tenant contract than we’re used to. This is a very pristine environment. Lake St. George is rated as one of the cleanest lakes in the state of Maine and the idea that such a large group of people have a contract to use this rather small island has some of us concerned.”

The Lake Association primarily has two concerns.

“The contract allows people to get together on the island and do what they want within certain rules,” she said. “That’s within their legal right to get together and party on the island. People who own property can have parties; but, we would be primarily be concerned about fire and septic pollution of water. People cannot just start a campfire without getting a permit and they can’t use the island as a toilet. Many people still use the waters of Lake St. George for cooking, for their water source and, of course, for swimming. We monitor the lake for bacterial issues. It’s unclear how septic is going to be managed and how fire permits are going to be managed and what happens if owners of the property violate those rules.”

Asked if she thought overpopulation on the island this summer from groups of owners making the trek to Maine would be be a concern, she said, “Well, if they all want to stand shoulder to shoulder and they own it communally, they all can do it, though it doesn’t sound like a lot of fun.”

Breslin added that excessive noise, partying crowds, and the unsightliness of flags are a lower level of concern for the lake association, although they are still a major concern for local residents.

Max Temkin, a co-creator of the game, responded to these concerns by email to Penobscot Bay Pilot. 

“If any of these things become actual issues, we'll reach out to island licensees and make sure they understand the rules,” he said. “If people continue to break the rules, we have the right to revoke their license on an individual basis. We're going to trust that people will use the island respectfully as they have for years in the past.”

A separate point, but one that has not yet been made aware to out-of-state owners of the property, is access to the island.

“You cannot launch a boat from the public boat landing and leave the boat at the landing overnight,” Breslin said, adding that kayaks would be easier to bring out, but then “they can’t just leave the kayaks at the boat landing if they wanted to go into town.” 

Lastly, for Mainers who have always historically used Birch Island as a day-use stopping point while boating, questions have arisen whether this island’s new ownership will prohibit this practice.

Tempkin responded, “We'll continue to maintain the island as an undeveloped public space as long as we have it; of course locals are welcome to continue enjoying it.”

Added Breslin, “I really don’t want to characterize that these people are unwelcome. I mean, maybe they will come and be very good neighbors. We don’t know. And if they are good neighbors, we hope they join the lake association.”

Related story: Cards Against Humanity uses holiday stunt to buy Lake St. George's 'Birch Island'

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

In researching a project I’ve been working on lately, I found myself at the Rockland Public Library earlier this week, scanning through newspaper microfilm to see what events unfolded in the Midcoast in the spring of 1927.

Back then the Rockland-Courier Gazette came out three times a  week and cost three cents a copy.

An essay titled What is the Matter With Our Young People? caught my eye. Written by Thomas Arkle Clark, Dean of Men at the University of Illinois, the essay was originally published inThe Rotarian magazine and republished by the Rockland-Courier Gazette in April.

It was a fascinating look at how a dean regarded the Flapper era, a time when young college men wore hip flasks to socials and young women were scandalously joining them, openly drinking in public during Prohibition. The Model T was only $400 back then and everyone was driving them.

What do I think of them? I am asked this question wherever I go. Are they going to the devil as fast as the general public suggests that they are? Are they wilder or less moral than we, their virtuous predecessors were? Are they breaking away from all hampering conventions and giving up all religious principles and ideas? In short what, if anything is wrong with them?

Clark’s “we walked up hill both ways when we were young ‘uns” platitude was clearly evident at the start of this essay. He explains what it was like for him as a young person under his father’s household rule:

There was no card-playing in his house; his children were not allowed to dance; and when Sunday came all secular matters were set aside... we had no telephones, no electric lights, no automobiles. There wasn’t a paved street in town. We studied by kerosene lamps in rooms heated with little soft-coal stoves, and if there was a bath tub in town excepting the one in Terbush’s barbershop where we paid twenty-five cents for the privilege of cleaning up, I never knew about it.

When Clark himself went to college, Prohibition had not yet been enacted.

There were fourteen saloons in the little town in which I went to college and they did a good business....There was far more drinking than there is now, as badly as prohibition is enforced. A friend of mine who is head of a big institution told me not long ago that he knew a half dozen bright young fellows who paid their way through college by means of their skill at poker.

Drinking, dancing, gambling, lassitude, and extravagance were only a few vices Clark observed were plaguing the moral fortitude of young people in 1927. But surprisingly, he also saw their point of view, as well. Using a young man he knew named Connor as an example, he said:

Connor has been brought up in the orthodox faith. He was taken to church until he was old enough to go of his own accord, and for a time, he questioned nothing, analyzed nothing, thought of nothing for himself. Now he is uncertain, he is asking questions, he is trying to discover why and why not. It is not that he is irreligious; he sincerely wants to be truly religious, but he is determined to think things out for himself...

The young person of today is more resourceful than any other young person whom I’ve known. He can do anything he wants to do and can do it better than any of his predecessors. Challenge him and he will meet your challenge with a success that is almost unbelievable....The chief difficulty is to get him to the point of wanting to do something.

Just when you think Clark was beginning to fall into a generational cliché with this essay, he flipped the script completely and put all of the shortcomings of young people squarely on the shoulders of their parents.

If there is anything in particular the matter with our young people, parents, more than anyone else and anything else, are responsible. Children respond to their training in an amazing manner; they take on habits very early, which dominate them throughout life. By the time they are twelve or fifteen the path they are going to follow has been pretty well marked out for them, and parents, and the home are largely responsible for this choice.

Clark goes on to cite example after example of parental indulgence. In one case, the father of one of his 19-year-old college students called Clark to ask permission to let his son use his “motor car” to get to and from college, rather than walk, because the son gets up late and it’s “rather hard for him to make his nine-o’clock class.”

In another case, he recalls a young woman, Clara, whose mother has already bought her three fur coats, yet Clara is unhappy with her latest because nobody “wants to wear a fur coat longer than one season.”

Then there was the parent who called Clark after her son, George, had been dismissed from the University of Illinois as a result of an arrest for public drunkenness.

“We have always had liquor in the house,” she explained, ”and George has been free to take it when he wished. We teach temperance in our family; I never dreamed that my boy would go to excess.”

The trouble, where there is trouble, is largely with the parents who coddle their children and make their lives too soft and easy. There are too many coonskin coats and flashy looking runabouts. There are too many extravagant allowances and too many parties where the young people who go to them should be playing children’s games or at home in bed.... In general, have found that from eighty to ninety percent of the young people with whom I have to do are conscientious and hard working and anxious to do well. It is the minority of ten percent who have stirred up comment and made themselves notorious by their irregularities and for these things, foolish, indulgent parents are largely responsible.

As they say, the more things change, the more they stay the same.

To see the article in full from The Rotarian in 1927, click here.

Related stories:

The mysterious speakeasys of Rockland, where history whispers old secrets

Absinthe, once illegal, making roaring comeback in Maine

Kay Stephens has been researching the Prohibition era in Midcoast Maine for a new project. She can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

What's interesting about winter in the Midcoast is that local establishments and restaurants are doing everything they can to get you out of your jammies, out from under the Snuggies and into their venues for some much-needed social time, particularly on the weeknights. Thursday is just 'sploding with Open Mics, Game nights and all kinds of stuff. We've got a great lineup of activities this weekend–check it out!

Thursday, Jan. 8

· FOG Bar and Cafe is getting in on the mid-week “awesome stuff to do” bandwagon with their Drink & Draw Thursday edition from 7-11 p.m. Guest artists come with new themes and materials provided. Happy Hour goes on all night. No cover. 

· Karaoke at Cuzzys, starting at 9 p.m.! Always fun!

· Open Mic at Highlands Coffee House from 6 to 9 p.m. Get there at 5:30 p.m. to sign up to play.

· You’ve heard about the wildly inappropriate game Cards Against Humanity? Well, Cappy’s Chowder House kicked off game night with about 20 people last week and it was way too funny. Each Thursday, they’ll host Cards Against Humanity night from 6 -9 p.m. Meet people who share your sense of humor and enjoy drink and food specials. FMI: Facebook

Friday, Jan. 9

· Rock Harbor Brewing Co. is hosting 16-year-old wunderkind, Kayla Joe Anderson, from 8 -11 p.m. Kayla is a solo artist who sings and plays top hits from the ‘90s through today. No cover.

· Seth Warner duo is playing at The Narrows Tavern at 8 p.m. Their music is described as classical and traditional.

· The Speakeasy is hosting Echo Entertainment, a live DJ and Karaoke at 9 p.m.

· David Mallet, the renowned troubador is playing The Strand Theatre at 7:30 p.m. his body of work has provided material for an eclectic list of artists that includes Alison Krauss, Pete Seeger, Hal Ketchum, Emmylou Harris, John Denver and the Muppets! Tickets: $20/General Admission. FMI: The Strand Theatre

· Bowen’s Tavern in Belfast has a DJ playing from 7 p.m. - 12 a.m.

· Open Mic at the Time Out Pub downstairs.

· Rock City Cafe has The Royal Bones, A husband-and-wife indie rock duo from Bangor. Show goes from 7-9 p.m.

· Karaoke at The Myrtle Street Tavern, starts at 9 p.m., 21+.

· King Eider’s Pub has been undergoing major renovations in the kitchen and plans to re-open on Friday.

· Celtic Band Jam at Bell the Cat, Belfast goes from 6:30-9 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 10

· Road Trip! Central Street Farmhouse in Bangor (one of the hippest places in that city) is offering a FREE Beer Brewing 101 class from 1-3 p.m. Got a new brewing kit for the holidays and are wondering what to do next? Thye'll teach you how to make the best beer of your life in the comforts of your own kitchen, garage, porch, or backyard. FMI: Central Street Farmhouse

· Alice Limoges plays at Rock City Cafe. Alice's acoustic guitar and ukelele chart new territory, introducing unique chords and progressions. With catchy hooks and bridges, the melodies fuse jazz, bluegrass and folk influences into an original sound. Show goes from 7-9 p.m.

· Winter Dance Party, Double C.D. Release Party with Johnny Hoy and the Bluefish joined by "Sax Giant" Sax Gordon Beadle at the Blue Goose Dance Hall, Northport. Show goes from 8 p.m. to 12 a.m.Smoke and Chem Free, All ages welcome. Doors open at 8 p.m. $20 per person/Under 12 $10.

Sunday, Jan. 11

· Rock Harbor Brewing Co., will be hosting a cribbage tournament every Sunday beginning at 8 p.m.

· If you want to unwind from this wild weekend, The Tom Luther Quintet is playing at The Highlands Coffee House in Thomaston. Open to the public. Starts at 1 p.m.

· Get some fresh salsa right here. Swing & Sway Dancing is holding a salsa, merengue and bachata workshop for the public from 6-7:30 p.m. Located at 143 Maverick St., Rockland. Donation requested. FMI: 593-7914. Beginners welcome.

· Football fans! The Front Street Pub in Belfast is doing Sunday Funday with football food and drink specials all day long.

· Musicians, bring instruments and voices and make music together at Sail, Power and Steam Museum at Sharp's Point South, 75 Mechanic St., Rockland. Free. FMI: 701-5050 or 701-7627. Coffee and cookies provided. Every Sunday, rain or shine.

Want to know where to go for happy hour every day of the week? Check out our updated Guide To Midcoast’s Happy Hours.

 If you have an arts and entertainment event that fits within the adult scope of fun and cool things to do for Weekend Picks, contact Kay Stephens at news@penbaypilot.com or like The Killer Convo on Facebook and put her on your events list.

This might look a little familiar. Can you guess the era by the cars?

Maybe it’s because last week was New Year’s Day and everybody was all “Owwwie” but only one person commented on our Throwback Thursday photo. Luckily it only took one person to be right and MidCoast Maniac guessed the 1967 photo of Clark’s Spa is where the King Eider’s Pub in Damariscotta sits now. The photo was courtesy of King Eider’s Pub’s Facebook page and one of their fans, Susan Geyer commented on Clark’s: “My old hang out! The best vanilla cokes and Humpty Dumpty barbecue chips.”

This week’s photo courtesy Maine Historical Society.

Throwback Thursday needs your submissions. Send us your “back in the day” photos with a caption at news@penbaypilot.com

Shorts. We’re not talking about real Maine men who walk around in 14-degree weather with canvas shorts and a sweatshirt (although that should be a story in itself) we’re talking about the 2015 Maine Short Film Festival, which kicks off Thursday, Jan. 8 at 7:30 p.m. at the Frontier Café in Brunswick.

This has all the hallmarks of a pretty decent Cheap Date. It costs $8 per person, and even though it warrants a bit of a road trip down to Brunswick, it gets you out of the Truman Show of the Midcoast. Plus, you can pre-game at Brunswick’s awesome brewery, Lion’s Pride.

But back to the film fest. This is the first short film show of its kind in Maine sponsored by the Maine Film & Video Association and featuring nine short fiction, non-fiction and documentary films from eight Maine filmmakers. The 90-minute event will begin a theatrical tour all around Maine starting tomorrow night.

MFVA Board Chair Richard Kane said, “I think short films are very important because today, peoples’ attention spans are limited to the 144-character limit. People don’t spend more than a few minutes on Vimeo or YouTube and with remote controls clicking past commercials, it’s important in our field to be able to capture people’s attention very quickly with a story. By encouraging more filmmakers to make more shorts and to have these competitions each year to find the best shorts, it serves a good purpose and encourages our members to become more professional.”

More than 25 filmmakers around the state submitted shorts, up to a half-hour running time, into the competition. To whittle down the selections, three of Maine's top film reviewers: Daniel Kany, art critic with the Portland Press Herald, Ben Fowlie, founder and director of the Camden International Film Festival, and Louise Rosen, artistic and executive director of the Maine Jewish Film Festival, all presided over the submissions. None of the films identified the filmmakers, so board members of MFVA were able to submit theirs as well.

To that end, Kane got a pleasant surprise when his film with co-producer Melody Lewis-Kane was chosen. In These Times is a documentary about the Tree of Life Food Pantry in Blue Hill.

“It’s essentially a story to encourage people to support their local food pantry to help end hunger,” he said.

Other highlights of the film festival he mentioned included Ursula, about a young girl who wanders alone in the forest until she meets a mysterious sunbather adrift on a lake, in which nothing turns out to be quite what it seems. He also mentioned Liz, a documentary of a girl homeless at 13, who has lived a tragic life of despair, raging behavior and a brutal fight to survive on the streets.

Midcoast Mainers will also remember Deux Ex Machina, by Seth Campbell Brown, which once premiered at the Camden International Film Festival, featuring local Jack Churchill and his trials and triumphs in building a steampunk motorcycle. Find out more behind that story in our 2012 feature “Seth Brown to debut short film at CIFF.”

To find out the premise of all nine films visit www.mainefilm.org  or watch the embedded teaser video.

The Maine tour schedule follows.

Jan. 8 - 7:30 p.m., Frontier Cafe, Brunswick
Jan. 15 - 7:30 p.m., Guthries, Lewiston
Jan. 29 - 7 p.m., Stonington Opera House
Feb. 4 - 7:30 p.m., Space Gallery, Portland
March 18 - 7 p.m., Railroad Square Waterville
March 29 - 3 p.m., The Strand, Rockland
April 9 - 7 p.m., The Alamo, Bucksport
April 10 - 7 p.m., Hammond Hall, Winter Harbor
April 17 - 7:30 p.m., Denmark Arts Center, Denmark

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

Check this little slice of the past out. At first glance, can you tell where this is and guess what year? Any stories about what Clark’s Spa was?

 If last week’s Throwback Thursday photo looked familiar, it’s because it was Christmas Night 1884 in Belfast and the opening of the roller skating rink in the Coliseum, the large building on lower Main Street. By 8 o'clock in the evening there were over 600 people present, 350 were seated in the gallery overlooking the floor and 250 were skating. The Coliseum was destroyed in the fire of April 1974 and the lot was never re-built upon, it is now the Washington Street parking lot. Info and photo courtesy Belfast Historical Society and Museum

Note: So we don’t give the photo away, the photo credit will be revealed in next week’s Throwback Thursday.

Happy New Year!

Throwback Thursday needs your submissions. Send us your “back in the day” photos with a caption at news@penbaypilot.com

Ooof, how you feeling? One eye squinched open reading this? Did you know that January 1 is National Bloody Mary Day? We did some highly scientific research to find out who has the best Bloodies in the Midcoast. Let the curative powers of the horseradish and pepper bring you back to life and see what else is going on this weekend.

Thursday, Jan. 1

· Want to see a bunch of people run screaming into the freezing surf for a good cause? Dip 4 Derek, the annual Polar Bear Challenge will be taking place at 12 p.m. on  Lincolnville Beach next to the  Lobster Pound Restaurant. FMI: 236-0074.

· Rock Harbor Brewing Co’s bar will open its doors at 10 a.m. on the first day of 2015 to cure the hangovers of many. $5 Bloody Mary specials.

· You’ve heard about the wildly inappropriate game Cards Against Humanity (and their new island in Maine?) Well, Cappy’s Chowder House is getting in on the action. Each Thursday, they’ll host Cards Against Humanity night from 6 p.m.-9 p.m. Meet people who share your sense of humor and enjoy drink and food specials. FMI: Facebook

Friday, Jan. 2

· Blind Albert plays acoustic originals and covers of folk, rock and blues at The Narrows Tavern, 8 p.m., Waldoboro.  No cover.

· There’s a community Contra Dance at American Legion Post 43, in Belfast starting at 6:30 p.m. $2 adults/$1 kids. The Gawler Family Megaband and Chrissy Fowler are calling from 8-11 p.m. $10 adults/$7 ages 13-20/$4 kids. FMI: 338-0979 or BelfastFlyingShoes.org.

Saturday, Jan. 3

· The Speakeasy brings in their first band of the new year with an old favorite. Blind Albert will be taking the stage at 8 p.m. No cover if you’ve dined at The Chowder House.

Sunday, Jan. 4

· Moonwalking takes on a whole new meaning. The Hidden Valley Nature Center in Jefferson is hosting a walk under the moon while featuring  artist-in-residence George Mason's work. Meet at main gate 5:30 p.m. for walk. Then enjoy light supper with wine or hot cider, and commentary by Mason. $5 suggested donation. FMI: hvnc.org.

· If you want to unwind from this wild weekend, jazz musicians of all levels are invited to play the Mike Whitehead Group at The Highlands Coffee House in Thomaston. Open to the public. FMI: 354-4162. playing at from 1-3:30 p.m.

· Get some fresh salsa right here. Swing & Sway Dancing is holding a salsa, merengue and bachata workshop for the public from 6-7:30 p.m. Located at 143 Maverick St., Rockland. Donation requested. FMI: 593-7914. Beginners welcome.

· Musicians, bring instruments and voices and make music together at Sail, Power and Steam Museum at Sharp's Point South, 75 Mechanic St., Rockland. Free. FMI: 701-5050 or 701-7627. Coffee and cookies provided. Every Sunday, rain or shine.

· FOG Bar & Cafe hosts Drink & Draw. They supply the art materials and you provide the raw artistic talent. Drink and food specials all night.

Want to know where to go for happy hour every day of the week? Check out our updated Guide To Midcoast’s Happy Hours.

 If you have an arts and entertainment event that fits within the adult scope of fun and cool things to do for Weekend Picks, contact Kay Stephens at news@penbaypilot.com or like The Killer Convo on Facebook and put her on your events list.

Perhaps you didn’t know that January 1 is National Bloody Mary Day. Makes sense right? Cappy’s Chowder House & Restaurant has this formula down for the bedraggled partygoers who want to come in for a little zip in their sip.

We checked in with bartender Ann Flagg Campbell, who uses a house recipe for Cappy’s official hangover cure called a Bloody Bloody.

Long before hipsters co-opted the mason jar, Cappy’s has been serving their cocktails in this grip-friendly glassware for decades and this is how the Bloody Bloody is served. Not only do they rim the jar with special seasonings, but they also make their Bloody Mary mix from scratch (with some secret ingredients even Ann can’t tell you!) and the result is a extremely light with a peppery, zingy taste that is topped off with a crispy (almost cucumber-like) local Morse’s pickle.

Some Bloody Mary mixes are so thick it’s like drinking a jar of salsa, but Cappy’s homemade Bloody Bloody has a thin consistency with phat flavor. It’s that good, you can down two or more. Not all Bloodies can deliver this.

We did a very informal survey on who has the best Bloodies in the Midcoast for National Bloody Mary Day and, according to locals, other restaurants and bars who can take the tomato and spin it into a delectable drink include Home Kitchen Cafe, The Landings and Cafe Miranda—all Rockland establishments.

Watch our video to see how Cappy’s makes theirs. To make this drink at home all you need is:

• Absolute Peppar vodka
• Homemade Bloody mix including tomato juice, salt, pepper, lemon, lime, horseradish and Worcestershire sauce
• Fresh squeezed lime
• Morse’s Full Sour pickles
• Green olives
• Long toothpick for garnish
• Celery salt and pepper
• Mason Jar

A note on the Morse’s pickles. Morse’s Sauerkraut and European Deli out of Waldoboro is one of those under-the radar places that provides some stellar old-world ingredients, like these pickles. Cappy’s offers both the “Half Sour” and the “Full Sour” option for your Bloody Mary; the first being more of a garlic, pickled bite and the later more of a crunchy, cucumber bite (which I preferred in their Bloody Bloody). To find out where you can get Morse’s pickles for this cocktail visit: morsessauerkraut.com

All in all this is a Bloody Good Drink. Cappy’s will be ready for you.

Related story: Iconic Craft Cocktails of The Midcoast

Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com

Belfast for the families, Rockland for the rock ‘n’ rollers. That’s the lowdown for this New Year’s Eve. Wherever you are in the Midcoast, something is going on Jan 31. Here is the New Year's Eve rundown and where to go to find every type of entertainment to put you in the mood.

Belfast

New Year's by the Bay

The Leaky Boot Jug Band is revving up to celebrate the New Year with revelers as part of the 18th annual New Year's by the Bay, a day-long arts and entertainment extravaganza leading up to a bring-your-own drum noisemaking procession with the Drum & Rabble Corps as they lead you down to down to the celebratory lighting of the bonfire by the bay at the Boathouse.

The performances range from rock, blues, jazz, folk, bluegrass and gospel, a cappella and storytelling in between. Here’s the schedule of events.

One button admits you to all performances and activities of the New Year’s by the Bay 2014 chem-free, family friendly, cultural celebration. Food purchases are separate. Adults – $18; Students K-12, $5; children under 5 are free. For more information visit www.nybb.org

Passing of the Cape, Belfast Public Library

As part of Belfast's 18th First Night celebration, Toussaint St. Negritude will join the list of Belfast's illustrious Poets Laureate at a poetry reading in his honor. The "passing of the cape" will take place at 6 p.m. Directly following, at 7 p.m., Toussaint will perform a set of his unique and enthralling poetry and music. Note: you will need one of the NYBB buttons in order to attend this event. For more information visit www.nybb.org

Front Street Pub

Ring in the new year with champagne, passed hors d’eouvres, prizes giveaway and dancing from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. $5 cover and 21+

Camden/Rockport

Natalie's Count Down Party

Make sure you join Natalie's at Camden Harbour Inn for the seventh annual Count Down Party. The party starts at 10:30 p.m with Wayne Delano Jazz Band. Free admission and complimentary hors d'houvres including Oliebollen, a Dutch fried Doughnut style pastry with cranberries and raisins. At midnight, they’ll count down with a champagne toast and have complimentary party favors available. RSVP by calling the inn at 207-236-7008.

New Ragged Mountain Ski Club Party

For their annual NYE party, this year, they are throwing a family friendly event at the Snow Bowl. Think of it as a Pancake Breakfast meets End of Season Potluck meets New Year's Eve Party. At 6:00pm, the lodge will open for party goers. They’'ll have drinks and food, but encourage people to bring something to share.  Windjammer will be set up for sledding and games for kids. They’ll have a bonfire...with a bonfire inspired cocktail...maybe a down and dirty ice bar? Tickets are $20.00 per adult, $15.00 per child (18 and under).

Rockland

Trackside Station

Keeping it simple, Trackside will ring in 2015  with a countdown on the big screen at midnight, a champagne toast and music by DJ VJ. Ages 21+. No cover.

FOG Bar & Cafe

The Dolphin Strikers will be kicking off a high-energy masquerade ball at FOG Bar & Cafe from 9 p.m.-1 a.m. $10 cover. Toast with bubbly at midnight.

Rock Harbor Brewery

CELEBRATE the New Year with some “Group Therapy” In Session.  This band plays the best cover songs you’ll know and love, and hearing them play Hendrix on the slide is awesome so prepare to dance up off your bar stool. Band will play from 8:30p.m. - 11:45 ish- just in time to get the champagne toast.

New The Landings

They’re going with a bang. The Landings is having a Kick The Keg early night party starting at 8 p.m. with dollar drafts, music and specials until 10 p.m. See them one last time before they close for the winter.

New Rockland Elks Club

The event starts at 6 p.m. for Social Hour. Appetizers are served at 7 p.m. Dinner with Prime Rib or Baked Ham The band Creatures of Habit will be playing.$35/person. Purchase tickets from Stewards or visit: Elks Lodge.

New The Speakeasy

Note: this packaged dinner/lodging and music event with Biscuit Miller and The Mix is sold out.

Thomaston

Highlands Coffee House

Expanding their ever-popular Open Mic, the Highlands Coffee House will be open to musicians, poets, writers and other creative folk starting from 7 p.m. - 11 p.m. There will be drink and food specials. No cover.

Waldoboro

The Bog Tavern

Bullwinkle's Family Steak House/The Bog Tavern will be hosting their annual New Year's Eve celebration with dinner specials, giveaways, the band Midlife Crisis starts at 9 p.m. There will be New Year's Eve toast at midnight. FMI: 832-6272

VFW Hall

There will be a dinner dance at the VFW Hall, Mill St.  with a buffet going from 7-8:30 p.m. Bad Penny plays 8:30 p.m.-midnight. $20 includes buffet and champagne. Proceeds support Voice of Democracy Program in local schools. Tix: 832-0540.

Tenants Harbor

The Quarry Tavern

You want a mellow, home-by-11 p.m. kind of night? By the Bay Jazz Trio,  The Quarry Tavern, 21 Mechanic St., Tenants Harbor. 7-10:30 p.m. FMI: EastWindInn.com or 372-6366.

Note: If your establishment isn’t listed here it’s because we were unable to find any details of your event posted online. We will be adding more details and more New Year's events as they become available. Please check back! To contact me with more details: Kay Stephens can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com