Bats come alive as 'Dogs take series finale 13-5

Shaw grand slam, career-high 5 RBI

Manchester, New Hampshire - The Portland Sea Dogs (41-38) capped off their series with the New Hampshire Fisher Cats (39-43) in a big way, winning 13-5on Sunday afternoon at Northeast Delta Dental Stadium. With the victory, the Sea Dogs earned their first series win since May 20-23 at Hadlock Field against the Fisher Cats. Ten of Portland's thirteen runs came with two outs.

Travis Shaw (2-for-3, HR, 5 RBI - career high) had the big blast of the day, a grand slam in the top of the 4th. Peter Hissey hit his second home run of the year, and Tony Thomas had a three-run shot, his ninth of the season.

Anthony Ranaudo (8-2) picked up the win in Sunday's contest.  Ranaudo tossed five innings of five-run ball, allowing a season-high nine hits. He issued two walks and struck out five.

Michael McCarthy threw four scoreless innings in relief of Ranaudo, earning his second save of the season.

Portland got on the board in the 1st with a Michael Almanzar RBI double. A single from Shaw made the score 2-0.

A sacrifice fly from New Hampshire's Kevin Nolan and a two-run home run from Kevin Ahrens put the Fisher Cats in the lead 3-2 in the 2nd.

Portland tied the game quickly, as Hissey led off the 3rd with a solo shot. Almanzar added his second RBI of the afternoon with a single making the score 4-3.

The Sea Dogs would put the game out of reach in the 4th. A pinch-hit RBI single for J.C. Linares and an RBI groundout to short by Thomas put Portland ahead 6-3. Shaw's grand slam made the score 10-3 and capped off a six-run 4th inning. Thomas' home run in the 5th inning put Portland ahead 13-3.

With the win and Trenton's loss, the 'Dogs hold the second playoff spot in the Eastern League's Eastern Division.

Prime Motor Group Player of the Game: Travis Shaw

The Sea Dogs open up a nine-game homestand in eight days on Monday night at Hadlock Field against the Trenton Thunder (Yankees affiliate), game time is 7:00 PM.  RHP Keith Couch (5-2, 4.17) takes on RHP Sean Black (1-1, 1.80) in the series opener.

Radio coverage begins at 6:40 PM on the U.S. Cellular Sea Dogs Radio Network and via the Tune-In Radio app for smartphones and tablets.  Monday is MOMDay and a special Pre-Game concert by Motor Booty Affair at Hadlock Field. Tickets are available by calling 207-879-9500 or at seadogs.com.

Carver Hill Gallery: July 5 First Friday Opening of "IL MIO MONDO

Rockland, Maine - Carver Hill Gallery, 338 Main Street in Rockland, Maine, is very pleased to introduce three incredible new artists in the show “Il Mio Mondo” (In My Own World) for our July First Friday Art Walk, 7/ 5/2013. The opening reception hours are 5 – 8 PM.

Roberto Boiardi’s paintings explore cityscapes and 20th century figures in "anonymous” urban locations, rather than recognizable metropolitan areas with iconic buildings and landmarks. The work has the look of old crumpled photographs, which he creates by preparing the canvas with a layer of cementite and acrylic paste. He then paints in oil, which he frequently mixes with chalk to add even more texture. The result is a wonderfully matt, distressed look that is further complemented by his palette of smoky colors. Roberto Boiardi currently lives and paints in Piacenza, Italy.

Giggi Gatti’s work combines cultivated painting (nineteenth and twentieth century figurative work), medieval frescos, and images from advertising and illustration. His paintings have an uncanny familiarity to them that most viewers agree on, but can’t pinpoint. There is a nineteenth century folk art feel to them, but they are far more accessible and believable. His brushstrokes are short, slow and deliberate. Nothing happens by accident in these works. They are thoughtful and compelling. Like Modigliani, he outlines his work, but it is much less obvious – it separates his subjects from their environment, which they almost seem to blend right into. Like faded comic strips, they whisper instead of shout. Gigi’s poetic expression is centered in human solitude and the mysterious charm of existence. He currently resides in his home country of Italy.

Laura Balombini is a *been there done that* kind of artist. She has a BFA in ceramics, but is also a fabric artist, milliner, jeweler, and painter. Interestingly enough, she seems to do it all well. Throw creative writing and gardening in the mix and you have this wonder woman of a creator. Laura’s pursuit of wholesome, natural living brought her to Maine 20 years ago where she continued to make art, babies, and gardens until her recent move south, to the hills of North Carolina. Her work humorously depicts life’s trials and tribulations, combining her finely tuned ability in clay work with wonderfully appropriate found objects and fabric.

Collectively, the three artists of “Il Mio Mondo” offer us a “viewer’s vignette” of casual moments in time where the rest of the world is tuned out.

Show runs through July 31. http://www.carverhillgallery.com/

Exit 15 Yarmouth to Reopen Monday

Yarmouth, Maine - MaineDOT has announced that highway construction crews plan to reopen Interstate 295 northbound Exit 15 and unveil a new northbound on-ramp on Monday, July 1 after several months of intensive highway improvements and new construction.

Work began at the busy Yarmouth interchange in early March, and motorists have had to access Route 1 in Yarmouth via I-295 Exit 10 in Falmouth or Exit 17 in Yarmouth.

The reopening of the northbound exit marks a critical point in the schedule comprising a number of different goals within the Exit 15 project.

"Our first priority for the Exit 15 interchange was to close northbound Exit 15, which would help us complete that portion of the job quickly and safely, and be back open in time for the Yarmouth Clam Festival," said Ted Talbot, MaineDOT Director of Communications. "Being back open before the Fourth of July is a win-win result for everyone."

The new northbound on-ramp will make I-295 travel more convenient for thousands of residents and visitors and also reduce traffic along Yarmouth's Route 1 corridor.

While completion of the Exit 15 components is a measurable sign of progress, construction will continue at the interchange through the summer.

Central to the project is the construction of a new 300-vehicle Park & Ride commuter lot accessible from Route 1, which will encourage commuters and others to carpool, traveling together in fewer cars, and help reduce highway congestion, fuel expenses, and emissions.

Other improvements still under way include relocating the I-295 southbound entrance and on-ramp to make it easier and safer for entering traffic to merge with highway traffic. Construction crews will also make off-ramp adjustments at Exit 15 Southbound.

Motorists are cautioned that construction crews are still at work within the project area and work zone speed limits are still in place. MaineDOT estimates that all of the interchange improvements will be completed, weather -permitting, by November.

MaineDOT appreciates the patience of all drivers during this construction period, and also asks motorists to travel safely through all work zones.

Sea Dogs hold on for a 7-5 win at New Hampshire

Portland one single, 7 extra-base hits
Manchester, New Hampshire - The Portland Sea Dogs (40-38) used a two-run eighth to beat the New Hampshire Fisher Cats (39-42) 7-5 on Saturday night at Northeast Delta Dental Stadium. Portland has won two straight in the series, and with a victory tomorrow, they can win their first series since May 20-23.

Will Latimer (1-4) entered the game with the Sea Dogs trailing 5-4, but fanned all five batters faced, working two perfect innings for a save.   Rafael Perez pitched a perfect ninth for his second save of the season.

The Sea Dogs took the lead for good with two unearned runs off losing pitcher Evan Crawford (2-2) in the eighth.  Christian Vazquez led off the frame by reaching on a shortstop's error.  Garin Cecchini (2-for-4) nailed a double to left field.  Dustin Antolin relieved Crawford, and induced a run-scoring ground out to Tony Thomas, tying the game at five.  With two outs, J.C. Linares blooped an RBI double, just fair to left, giving Portland the lead for good.   Cecchini added a run-scoring single in the ninth, Portland's only single of the game.

Chris Balcom-Miller tossed two scoreless innings and fanned two, earning his second hold of the year.

Matt Barnes was knocked out after 5+ innings, giving up nine hits, five runs (four earned) on two walks and five strikeouts.  New Hampshire scored three times in the first off Barnes.  A.J. Jimenez knocked in the first

EXPLORE THE ESTUARY

KELT offers monthly summer explorations to experience the Kennebec Estuary
Bath, Maine - The Kennebec Estuary Land Trust (KELT) this July and August are offering a series of 'Summer Explorations' for folks to get outside, get a little dirty, and get curious about the amazing natural landscape. The events are free and open to the public.

Botany Walk with Willow Schwartz

On Wednesday, July 10 from 10am to 12pm meet at Bonyun Preserve on Westport Island and join landscape gardener and native plant connoisseur, Willow Schwartz, on a walk through the preserve. Enjoy the lovely coastal views and learn more about Maine’s native (and some non-native) plants. Meet at the preserve kiosk. Wear hiking shoes, long pants, and bug dope. Bring a small note pad and pencil for notes and a camera!

Geocaching along the Whiskeag Trail

On Saturday, July 20 from 9:30am to 11:30am meet at the Whiskeag Trail kiosk at the Bath YMCA to brush up skills or learn the art of geocaching! Fun for the whole family; join us to search the Whiskeag Trail for tricky and creative caches hidden by a local expert geocacher, Joan Janowski. Wear comfortable hiking shoes and clothing. Bring a GPS handheld unit (not a unit used exclusively for navigation in an automobile). There will be a limited supply of GPS units to borrow- please indicate at registration if you need to borrow a unit.

Nature and Marine Sketching with David Wheeler

On Saturday, August 10 from 10am to 12pm at Thorne Head Preserve in Bath, join David Wheeler to discover how art and nature go hand in hand! Wheeler, a practitioner of illustration-based marine education, will lead participants to observe and measure the forms and structures of species and biospheres. Intriguing! Adults and families with children over 6 years old welcome. Meet at the preserve kiosk.

Clam Digging with Jon Hentz

On Tuesday, August 13 from 9:30am to 12pm at Reid State Park in Georgetown, this is a favorite summer exploration! Come traverse the softshell clam flats of Reid State Park with Georgetown’s Shellfish Warden, Jon Hentz, and learn to dig a clam or a dozen. This event is great for kids!

Summertime Hikes at KELT preserves

This summer KELT is planning hikes to fun places with new faces by offering a series of short notice, rain or shine hikes throughout the Kennebec Estuary. Join KELT's email list or become a KELT fan on Facebook so you can be alerted to where and when the hikes will be. KELT will only give a week or so notice so keep your walking shoes at the ready!

Registration is strongly encouraged and any questions can be directed to Becky Kolak at 442-8400 or bkolak@kennebecestuary.org.

The Kennebec Estuary Land Trust is a membership supported organization dedicated to protecting the land, water and wildlife of the Kennebec Estuary.  It holds easements on 1,087 acres of private land and maintains eight preserves for public enjoyment. FMI contact www.kennebecestuary.org or call (207) 442-8400.

State Education Board Chair honored for Adult Education advocacy

Waterville, Maine - The chair of the State’s Board of Education has been honored for his advocacy on behalf of adult education.

Dr. Steve Pound, of Greenville, was recognized as the 2013 recipient of the Gerald N. Levasseur Award, presented by the Maine Adult Education Association (MAEA) at the Maine Adult Education Conference held at Colby College last week.

A Millinocket native, Dr. Pound served as Superintendent of Schools in Greenville following a career in education in Canada.  He quickly recognized the importance of adult education to rural Mainers experiencing job loss, and took on the role of director of the Greenville Adult Education program.

In 2006, Dr. Pound joined the Cianbro Corporation, serving in various capacities most recently as Associate Director for Workforce Development at the Cianbro Institute.

Seeing his new company was in need of welders for a project in Brewer building oil refinery rigs, Dr. Pound arranged for many of the state’s adult education programs to offer introductory welding classes designed to identify prospects to go on for further training and to ultimately be hired by Cianbro. This has led to a full-scale commitment to workforce development in the form of the Cianbro Institute, and to a continuing partnership between the company and educational providers including adult education, explained MAEA Executive Director Cathy Newell, who presented the award.

Dr. Pound is also a member of many boards including the State Board of Education which he chairs, the Educate Maine board, local workforce investment boards including serving as Past-Chair of the Tri-County Local Workforce Investment Board, the State Workforce Investment Board, and the Maine Employers Initiative Advisory Council of Maine Development Foundation.

“In his work with Cianbro and his board service, Dr. Pound has effectively emphasized the importance of adult education to decision makers. This work has been of immense help as adult education is increasingly recognized as a vital element in workforce development in Maine and our nation,” Newell said.

The Maine Adult Education Association annually recognizes outstanding teachers, student leaders, support staff and administrators.  For more information, visit www.maineadulted.org.

For more information about the State Board of Education, visit www.maine.gov/sbe/.

BAXTER STATE PARK CELEBRATES GOVERNOR BAXTER DAY IN BANGOR

FRIENDS OF BAXTER STATE PARK CELEBRATES GOVERNOR BAXTER DAY IN BANGOR ON JULY 24

On Wednesday, July 24, Friends of Baxter State Park will host a full-day celebration of the connections between Bangor, Baxter State Park, and the Katahdin Region. Events will highlight the art, history, and literature connecting the regions, and the wild areas of greater Bangor. All events are free unless otherwise listed below.

Governor Baxter Day will begin at 7:00 a.m. with a bird walk at the Orono Bog Boardwalk, followed by a hike for families along Kenduskeag Stream led by a naturalist from Fields Pond Audubon Center. From 8:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., four Baxter State Park visiting artists will host a plein-air painting event along Kenduskeag Stream, which is open to juried participation. Paintings will be sold later in the day at a live wet-paint auction.

At 10:00 a.m., Dana Lippitt, Curator of the Bangor Museum and History Center, will lead a walking tour of historical Bangor. Tickets for the tour cost $8 and are available at www.visitbangormaine.com/baxter. The Bangor Public Library will host an 11:00 a.m. talk by Donn Fendler, author of Lost on a Mountain in Maine, and a talk at noon by David Little, author of Art of Katahdin. At 1:30 p.m., there will be a docent-led tour at the University of Maine Museum of Art, across the street from the library.

Governor Baxter Day culminates with food, music, programs, and a live wet-paint auction at the Top of Bangor Tour & Reception, located at the historic Joseph Low House. Tickets for this event are $25 and available for purchase at www.friendsofbaxter.org or Epic Sports, 6 Central St., Bangor.

In conjunction with Governor Baxter Day, there will also be a photo contest and online art auction. Entries for the photo contest will be on display and for sale at Epic Sports in Bangor from July 13th through July 23rd. Bidding on paintings by Maine artists will be held online July 1st through July 23rd at www.32auctions.com/brushstrokesforbotany. The winning bids will be announced at the Top of Bangor Tour the evening of July 24.

All proceeds from Governor Baxter Day will support the Plants of Baxter State Park Project, which for the first time is compiling a comprehensive inventory of all plant species in Maine’s greatest wilderness park.

"Morning Mist" The Maine Windjammer Project

"Morning Mist" By Doug Mills

Lewis R. French sails south from Castine in the morning mist.[07-05-2012]

www.mainewindjammerproject.com

MIDCOAST BOWL FOR KIDS’ SAKE RESULTS

Rockland, Maine - The final results of Big Brothers Big Sisters Bowl For Kids’ Sake event are in.  The
event, held in the Midcoast area from April 28 through May 11, hosted 172 teams and almost 700 bowlers, and took place at All Play Family Entertainment Center in Waldoboro, Point Lookout Bowling Center in Northport, and Oakland Park Lanes in Rockport.

“This is the largest fundraising event Big Brothers Big Sisters does, and revenues from Bowl For Kids’ Sake account for about 1/3 of our agency’s total operating dollars to support our youth mentoring program,” says event coordinator Cathy Hardy.  “We thank everyone who participated and raised funds for BBBS.

The winners were:

TOP FUNDRAISERS
1st – Jennifer Smith, Warren School ($2,733)
2nd – Peter Horch, Horch Roofing ($2,200)
3rd– George Sawyer ($2,115)

Honorable Mentions: Danny Jackson, Camden National Bank, Waldoboro ($1,095); Freida Carpenter, Bank of America ($1,000); T.J. Mack, E.L. Spear and CBM Big Sister ($975)

TOP FUNDRAISING TEAMS (Single team)

Principles of Integrated Pest Management‏

Camden/Rockport, Maine - Entomologist Kathy Murray will lead a presentation on the principles of integrated pest management at Merryspring Nature Center on Tuesday, July 9 at 12:00 noon.

Integrated pest management seeks to understand pests and outsmart them with practical methods that favor keeping nature in balance and creating attractive gardens at the same time.  Murray will highlight a variety of IPM methods, including how to keep away pests through plantings and attracting beneficial organisms, all the while ensuring a healthy and diverse garden. After the lecture portion of the presentation, Murray will showcase IPM methods used by Merryspring and field questions from a curious audience.

Kathy Murray is an entomologist and integrated pest management specialist with the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation, and Forestry. She coordinates the Maine School IPM program and provides expertise on IPM methods, training, and support to schools and community groups. Dr. Murray earned her PhD in entomology from the University of Massachusetts and an MS in entomology from the University of Maine.

Guests for this talk should meet outside at the Hexagon gazebo at noon.

This talk is part of the Spring Talk series at Merryspring, sponsored by the First.

Merryspring is a member-supported, non-profit nature education center and park located at the end of Conway Road just off Rt. 1 by the Hannaford shopping plaza in Camden. For more information, call Merryspring at 236-2239 or email info@merryspring.org.

Haeger spins a beauty in Portland's 5-1 win

Christian Vazquez 4-for-5, 2 RBI
Manchester, New Hampshire - Knuckleballer Charlie Haeger (4-4) tossed eight scoreless innings and his battery-mate Christian Vazquez went 4-for-5, aiding the Portland Sea Dogs (39-38) in a 5-1 win over the New Hampshire Fisher Cats (39-41) on Friday night at Northeast Delta Dental Stadium.

Haeger scattered seven hits, six strikeouts and did not issue a walk for the first time since a MLB Rehab start in 2010 with the Arizona Dodgers.  The righty threw 75 of 115 pitches for strikes, and earned his first career win against New Hampshire.

Marcus Walden (5-8), who beat the Sea Dogs in three previous starts this year, was saddled with the loss. Walden tossed seven innings on eight hits and two runs.

The Sea Dogs cracked the ice with a two-spot against Walden in the fourth.  Michael Almanzar led off the frame with a single and advanced to second base on a throwing error by the left fielder.  After a ground out, Vazquez nailed a run-scoring single to left field and scored on a single by Heiker Meneses.

Meneses and Vazquez were the dynamic duo in the eighth inning.  Vazquez knocked home Almanzar with a run-scoring double.  With two outs, Meneses nailed an RBI single to center.  Almanzar knocked in Portland's final run with an RBI double in the eighth.

Clint Robinson homered in the ninth for New Hampshire's lone run.  Garin Cecchini went 1-for-3, double and two walks, and has reached base safely in all six games with Portland.

Prime Motor Group Player of the Game: Charlie Haeger (8 IP, 7 H, 6 SO)

The Sea Dogs and New Hampshire Fisher Cats continue their four-game series tonight from Northeast Delta Dental Stadium.  Righty Matt Barnes (4-4, 5.03) gets the start for Portland.  New Hampshire counters with righty Deck McGuire (4-7, 5.53)

Radio coverage begins at 6:45 PM on the U.S. Cellular Sea Dogs Radio Network and via the Tune-In Radio app for smartphones and tablets.  The Sea Dogs return home on July 1st against the Trenton Thunder (Yankees affiliate). Tickets are available by calling 207-879-9500 or at seadogs.com.

Governor Signs Offshore Wind Power Bill

Bill provides the University of Maine the opportunity to compete
Augusta, Maine -  Governor Paul R. LePage signed today LD 1472, “An Act to Provide for Economic Development with Offshore Wind Power.” The Governor advocated for an amendment to the bill which requires the Maine Public Utilities Commission (PUC) to conduct a second round of competitive bidding for offshore wind projects.

A Norwegian multi-national oil and gas company, Statoil, has expressed interest in developing offshore wind technology off Boothbay Harbor. Recently, the Maine Public Utilities Commission approved a term sheet for Statoil, subject to contract negotiations with the PUC. LD 1472 allows the University of Maine to bid for an offshore wind project in our state’s own waters.

Governor LePage has pushed for weeks to include the University of Maine during the bidding process. The State of Maine sends more than $175 million of taxpayers’ money to the University of Maine system each year and the congressional delegation has worked to provide nearly $30 million in federal funding to support offshore wind research at the University.

“Prior to moving forward with a $200 million contract I would prefer to consider the economic opportunity to our own university system, right here in Maine,” Governor LePage said.

“The hard-working citizens who fund the University every year would be pleased to see that their ratepayer dollars are going to a project that will benefit Mainers, rather than subsidizing a foreign oil company,” the Governor said. “Our own university has made significant progress in offshore wind technology recently and we have already invested millions into this research. I am pleased to sign this bill, which allows the University to compete on a level-playing field and permits the PUC to determine which one makes the most sense for Maine’s economy.”

Bigelow Café Scientifique: Looking Inside the Ocean’s Microbial Black Box

East Boothbay, Maine -  Plankton biogeochemist and senior research scientist Dr. Mike Lomas will lead Bigelow Laboratory’s July 9 Café Scientifique conversation, titled Translating the Ocean’s Little Black Box: How Phytoplankton Diversity Controls Ocean Biochemistry, beginning at 6 p.m. in the Boothbay Harbor Opera House at 86 Townsend Avenue in Boothbay Harbor. Lomas will discuss recent findings about the distribution of immense global populations of cyanobacteria, among the smallest single-celled photosynthetic microbes in the ocean, and how these microscopic life forms affect the abundance and productivity of the world’s marine ecosystems. This is the second of nine Café Scientifique events scheduled for this summer.

“Cyanobacteria now dominate in 60% of the world’s surface ocean,” said Lomas. “Projections of changes in sea surface temperature resulting from increased concentration of greenhouse gases that are predicted to occur this century show significant expansion of these populations toward higher latitudes, meaning that oceanic microbial communities will experience complex changes, with large impacts on ocean ecosystems and biogeochemical cycles.”

Lomas’s global models are based on the combined effort of 35 years of research cruises and over 35,000 separate observations from all major ocean regions, including the eastern and western Pacific, southern Atlantic, and southern Indian oceans.

Prior to joining Bigelow Laboratory last fall, Lomas  was a scientist for over ten years at the Bermuda Institute for Ocean Sciences. He holds a Ph.D. in Biological Oceanography from the University of Maryland.

Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences is an independent, non-profit center for global ocean research, ocean science education, and technology transfer.  A recognized leader in Maine's emerging innovation economy, the Laboratory’s research ranges from microbial oceanography to the large-scale processes that drive ocean systems and global environmental conditions. The Laboratory’s Café Scientifique talks are free and open to the public, with beer, wine, and sodas available for purchase. The complete 2013 summer Café Scientifique program is available on the Laboratory’s website (www.bigelow.org).

Photo: Dr. Mike Lomas in the Bigelow Phytoplankton Ecology and Biogeochemistry Laboratory. Photo by Robert Mitchell.

Street Painting Underway

Public advised to use caution at newly painted intersections
Portland, Maine - The City of Portland’s Department of Public Services’ Traffic Division wants to remind the public that street and crosswalk restriping work is currently underway and will continue throughout the summer.  Pedestrians should be aware that the glass beads used to facilitate the painting process is slippery and people should use caution while walking across newly painted crosswalks. Motorists should not brake aggressively when driving over freshly painted crosswalks and center lines as they can be affected by the glass beading. The glass beads will wear off quickly once traffic resumes.

Over the spring, crews completed restriping work for the city’s downtown (State Street to Franklin Arterial, Cumberland Street to Commercial Street) and crosswalks near city schools.   Work will continue for the next two months, focusing in order of priority on crosswalks, special lane markers and center lines outside the downtown area.

Beginning this Sunday, June 30 (weather permitting) the following crosswalk priority areas will be restriped:

Congress Street from Franklin Street to Eastern Promenade

Forest Avenue from Cumberland Avenue to Woodford’s Corner

Commercial Street from Franklin Street to India Street

Congress Street from State Street to St. John Street

Forest Avenue from Woodfords Corner to Allen’s Corner

Congress Street from St. John Street to Stevens Avenue

Repainting edge lines, turning lanes, bike lanes and center lines will be provided by an outside contractor working for the Department.  Proposals for this service are currently being solicited now and the work should start in early August.

Weather is a factor as the painting work cannot occur when the street is wet or during a rain event.  Most of the crosswalk work will occur during off peak times or at night to reduce impacts on traffic. Operating crews will monitor conditions and will use between 1- 2 painting crews to complete the crosswalk work in advance of the rest of the street paving markings, including bike lanes, center lines and edge lines.

Party Day at Penobscot Marine Museum

Pen Bay Day!  Party Day at Penobscot Marine Museum

Join the party on Saturday, July 6th!  Penobscot Marine Museum celebrates our wonderful community and the summer season with a gigantic celebration.  Come see an underwater Remotely Operated Vehicle from OceansWide, watch Revolutionary War re-enactors fire their muskets and cook over an open fire, try your hand at weaving and spinning, hear great maritime music by Downeast From Away, eat delicious food from The Good Kettle and ice cream from Stone Fox Creamery, get a pirate tattoo, watch the flares, play games with your children, and much more!  Our annual summer party is a blast.   On Saturday, July 6th, 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, at Penobscot Marine Museum, Route One, Searsport, Admission Free.  For more information call 207-548-2529 or visit www.penobscotmarinemuseum.org.

Road Reconstruction to Begin in Poland

Poland, Maine - A highway reconstruction project will begin in Poland on July 1st beginning at the intersection of Brown Road, extending northerly toward the 5 points intersection.

This project on Route 26 involves clearing of trees and brush, excavation, laying new sub-base and paving operations. In addition, there will be drainage improvements and other highway safety upgrades.

Work will be performed Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. until 6 p.m. with occasional Saturdays as needed. Alternating traffic with flaggers will be in place on this 1.07 mile stretch of Route 26. Crews will work to minimize the length of the lane closures during peak travel times in the morning and afternoon.

Work will continue into the late fall and then be suspended for the winter. Crews will be back in the spring of 2014 to complete the project.

K&K Excavation of Turner is the contractor for this $2.2 million project.

Upcoming Boothbay Region Land Trust Events Week of July 1st

Boothbay, Maine - The following are Boothbay Region Land Trust upcoming events the week of July 1st, 2013.

Wednesday, July 3
Life in a Log

From 10 – 11 am, meet at the Hendricks Head Trail, Southport.  Back by popular demand!  This family friendly hike focuses on the plants and animals that live in, under, and on the logs of the forest floor. In this hands-on activity we will use tools such as magnifying glasses and bug boxes to aid our investigation. For more information or to register, contact Boothbay Region Land Trust Environmental Educator Tracey Hall at thall@bbrlt.org or call the office at 633-4818.

Saturday, July 6
BRLT Volksmarch and Grill Party

The Boothbay Region Land Trust will host a family event starting with a traditional German Volksmarch (hike) through two of its preserves, between 3:00 and 5:00 PM, to be followed by a Grill Party from 5:00 to 7:00 PM offering food, beverages, and music by The Spaceheaters.    Volksmarch is German for "peoples march" and is a form of non-competitive fitness walking that developed in Europe. The Boothbay Region Land Trust is bringing the Volksmarch to the harbor, with fun prizes and a grand finale that includes German food and drinks. The 5k route winds through Pine Tree Preserve before ending at the giant grill party at Penny Lake Preserve where there will also be activities for the kids.  The full hike on a marked trail should take about 1-1/2 hours, but a shorter route will also be available.  The casual pace and excellent food will suit people of all ages and fitness levels.  Tickets are required at $15/individual, $25/couple or $30/ family with two children.   Kids under 5 are free.    Parking will be at the Boothbay Region High School and the registration table will be by the tennis courts.   Valid I.D. is required for any beer consumption.  Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring water, insect repellent and sunscreen.   Leashed dogs will be allowed ONLY on the hike.  Tickets may be purchased at the BRLT office at 137 Townsend Avenue or by phone with a credit card.    For more information visit BRLT’s website at  www.bbrlt.org  or by phoning (207)633-4818.

Wednesday, July 10
Animal Signs Hike

From 10 – 11 am join us on a hike at the Lobster Cove Meadow Preserve as we look for the signs that animals leave behind. From scratches and rubs to tracks and scat, learn how to decipher and identify these clues. For more information or to register, contact Environmental Educator Tracey Hall at thall@bbrlt.org or call the office at 633-4818.

Saturday, July 13
Family Hike at Ocean Point Preserve

From 10 – 11:30 am on the second Saturday of each month, all families are invited to join a Environmental Educator Tracey "Turtle" Hall on a kid-friendly hike. These outings are a great way to meet other families in the area or catch up with old friends. The pace of the walk will allow plenty of time to discover and observe the natural world and special emphasis made on the seasonal changes that occur from month to month. Family hikes will average one mile in length and be about one hour in duration. The walks will occur rain or shine, and will only be cancelled in dangerous weather conditions. Registration is not required, just meet at the trailhead. For more information, contact Tracey Hall at thall@bbrlt.org.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome July 8

Although its name trivializes the illness as little more than being tired, chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), also known as chronic fatigue and immune dysfunction syndrome (CFIDS), is a complex and debilitating chronic illness that affects the brain and multiple bodily systems. Erika Manning will give a Brown Bag Lunch talk on July 8 at noon at the Camden Public Library, as part of the Wellness Series of the library and the Penobscot Bay Regional Chamber of Commerce.

CFS is characterized by incapacitating fatigue that is experienced as profound exhaustion and very poor stamina. It is also accompanied by flu-like symptoms, poor memory, un-refreshing sleep, and a worsening of symptoms following physical or mental exertion. The symptoms of CFS are extremely variable and fluctuate in severity and can complicate a person’s ability to cope with the illness. Most of the symptoms are not visible, which makes it very difficult for others to understand the vast array of complex and debilitating symptoms that people with the illness must contend with.

Erika Manning has been living with CFS for over a decade. With this talk she would like to share some of her story as she journeys through her life with CFS, including healing techniques from acupuncture, to diet, to therapeutic yoga (and many in between) that have helped her in her journey.

Erika is a Yoga Therapist who works with those who have CFS, back pain, pelvic floor dysfunction, arthritis and breathing issues.  She has a private practice under the name Blue Crow Studio, www.bluecrowyogatherapy.com.

Jenny Wilson Trio

Jenny Wilson Trio July 11 in Camden Amphitheatre

The Jenny Wilson Jazz Trio returns to the Camden Amphitheatre on July 11 to perform for the Summer Music Series of the Camden Public Library. The series is free and the concerts begin at 7:00 pm. Bring blankets or chairs for seating; if the weather turns wet the concert will move indoors.

Wilson attended the Community School in Camden in 1973, and says, “I was just amazed at Maine and didn’t want to leave. I lived in Maine until I graduated from USM (music major) and traveled to Switzerland where I lived for 13 years.”  Jenny Wilson is now becoming one of West Virginia’s notable jazz pianists and composers. The Trio boasts fresh original music in addition to arrangements of favorite jazz standards. Their successful New England tour in 2012 is a testament to their growing development as one of the more unique and enjoyable jazz trios on the scene today.

For those being introduced to the Jenny Wilson Trio they will be interested to know that the band is a family. Jenny’s husband, Nathan Wilson, is a seasoned world traveling bassist. The trio’s drummer is Evan Lintz, Jenny’s son. He is currently 20 years old and has been playing with the group for 5 years. Nathan recently appeared in front of 14 million viewers on national television with Pittsburgh’s Squonk Opera. Evan, currently a junior at WVU, also plays drums with Jam-Band Fletcher’s Grove and performs with Squonk Opera.

The Summer Music Series is hosted by the Camden Public Library and underwritten by The First and Allen Insurance & Financial. Concerts in the series include:
July 25 — The Midcoast Brass Quintet
August 1 — Cindy Kallet and Grey Larsen – folk, traditional favorites
August 8 — Pollock String Quartet, Alumni of the Eastman School of Music
August 15 — Simons & Goodwin — folk & popular acoustic

More about Jenny Wilson and the trio

After touring and teaching in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, Jenny earned her Master of Music Degree from West Virginia University in 2002 and she continues to compose, perform, and record with her current trio in Morgantown, WV. Jenny and Nathan are presently teachers and clinicians for the WV Jazz Society and have been presenting music programs for youth throughout the state since 2004.

Latest CD
In 2012 the Jenny Wilson Trio produced and released What She Sang in Winter, their first CD of all-original jazz compositions. “What She Sang in Winter is a recording propelled by pianist Jenny Wilson’s soulful touch, thoughtful writing, and joyous approach to all things jazz. Her confident playing enhances the beauty in each of her eight compositions. Lilting, bouncing, contemplative, or downright swinging, Jenny, son Evan Lintz on drums and husband Nathan Wilson on bass turn in a performance that’s both magical and memorable. Music played by a trio that sounds like, well, family.” — Robin Meloy Goldsby, author of Piano Girl, Rhythm, and Waltz of the Asparagus Peo

Governor Signs Biennial Highway Fund Budget

Augusta, Maine - Governor Paul R. LePage on Wednesday signed the $613.6 million Highway Fund budget into law.

Separate from the state's general fund budget, the Highway Fund budget funds the Maine Department of Transportation, the Motor Vehicle Division of the Secretary of State, and a portion of the State Police.

"The Highway Fund budget is fiscally responsible," said Governor LePage. "It does not raise taxes or fees, and it puts people to work. I am pleased to put my name to a budget that makes good sense for Maine people."

This budget, LD 1480, the FY14-FY15 biennial Highway Fund Budget, received unanimous support from the Transportation Committee on June 11. Subsequently, the Maine House and Senate followed suit with near unanimous support with only one negative vote being cast, allowing it to go to the Governor's desk for his signature.

"We worked hard to make sure all the pieces of this budget were geared to benefit our customers; the citizens of Maine," said MaineDOT Commissioner David Bernhardt. "In order for us to responsibly provide the safest and most reliable transportation system possible, we allocate the funding where it matters most. This ensures that today's infrastructure needs are met, while maintaining the ability to plan for future needs."

Transportation infrastructure maintained or supported by the MaineDOT includes about 8,500 miles of highway (out of about 23,000 total public road miles, meaning MaineDOT maintains a higher percentage of public road miles than all but eight other state DOT's) 2,728 state bridges, 1,110 miles of active railroad track (315 miles of which are state owned) the Downeaster Amtrak Service, 6 commercial airports including the majors in Portland and Bangor and 30 general aviation airports, 3 major seaports, the Maine State Ferry Service serving Penobscot Bay island communities, and 20 plus transit providers running about 450 buses.

Penobscot Marine Museum

In the next few days: Garden History Lecture Series  Heirloom Gardening is for the Birds! (Bees and Butterflies, too!)  Monday, July 1, 2013 7:00 pm     Diana Chapin of The Heirloom Garden of Maine will present a collection of slides that highlight some of the most colorful and fragrant plants that attract birds, butterflies and bees to the garden. She'll discuss the lifecycle of a butterfly and how a gardener may select specific plants that offer shelter, foliage and nectar for the insects in various stages of their lifecycle.   At PMM's Stephen Phillips Memorial Library, 11 Church Street, Searsport. Tickets in advance $8 members, $10 non-members, or at the door $12 members, $15 non-members.   Buy tickets online at http://garden02.eventbrite.com or call 207-548-2529. The Art of Katahdin    An illustrated talk and book signing by author David Little Tuesday, July 2, 2013 7:00 pm Celebrating our greatest natural treasure, this book tells the fascinating story of America's love affair with Maine's highest mountain. David Little spent seven years writing this amazing history of the lure Mount Katahdin held in the 19th and 20th centuries and still holds today for America's artists. At PMM's Stephen Phillips Memorial Library, 11 Church Street, Searsport. Tickets in advance $8 members, $10 non-members, or at the door $12 members, $15 non-members.   Buy tickets over the phone at 207-548-2529.

Lighthouse Cruise, Talk on Reducing Heating Bills the Green Way, and Children’s Story Hour Coming Up at Penobscot Marine Museum

Lighthouse Cruise, Talk on Reducing Heating Bills the Green Way, and Children’s Story Hour Coming Up at Penobscot Marine Museum

June 28, 2013 – Join Penobscot Marine Museum curator Cipperly Good for Lighthouse Tour of Penobscot Bay by Boat!  See eight lighthouses, including Eagle Island on a Camden Harbor Cruises boat.  The captain will provide commentary on the lighthouses and other features of the Bay with Ms. Good adding historical context. Coffee and muffins on board. Tuesday, July 9.  Leave Camden dock at 8:15, return at 12:15.  Tickets are $115 for members and $130 for non-members.  Buy tickets online at http://lighthousecruise.eventbrite.com or call  207-548-2529.

Penobscot Marine Museum’s Children’s Story Hour and Book Signing will feature
celebrated children’s illustrator and author Chris Van Dusen on Wednesday, July 10, 11:00 am.  Chris will read his beloved children’s book The Circus Ship.  This exciting story tells of the burning of the ship ROYAL TAR off the coast of Vinalhaven, and the rescue of the circus animals it was carrying.  There will be a book signing afterwards.   Free with PMM admission.  At PMM in the Peapod.



If you would like to find out how to have no heating or hot water bills, come hear Matthew O'Malia’s talk “How To Keep Warm and Stay Green” at Penobscot Marine Museum on Thursday, July 11th at 7:00 pm.  O’Malia is an architect and partner of GO Logic, the firm which designed Maine’s first Passive House Certified home.  This house is so energy-efficient it will have no heating or hot water bills for the next 25 years.  G O Logic also designed the Belfast Area Co-housing Community and TerraHaus, a dormitory at Unity College.  Their many awards include the Citation for Excellence in Architecture from AIA New England.  They provide a comprehensive problem-solving approach to the design and construction of quality, sustainable, zero-energy buildings.  Matthew will discuss the concepts and details of the highly-insulated passive solar house building.  The talk will be at PMM’s Stephen Phillips Memorial Library, 11 Church Street, Searsport.  Tickets in advance are $8 for members, $10 for non-members, or at the door $12 members, $15 non-members.   Buy tickets online at http://gologic.eventbrite.com or call  207-548-2529.