Maine's Capital Area

The health and well-being of people in the Kennebec Valley region will be enhanced for years to come because of generous gifts from the Peter Alfond Foundation to MaineGeneral Health and the Alfond Youth & Community Center.

A $40 million endowment will allow MaineGeneral to significantly expand its prevention programs to sustain improvements to community health. The Alfond Youth & Community Center has been endowed $8 million to fund the positions of Wellness Director and Wellness Trainers.

“The $40 million Peter Alfond Prevention and Healthy Living Center Endowment Fund supports innovative approaches to improve lives,” said MaineGeneral President & CEO Chuck Hays. “With this investment, we will continue to break down barriers to care and wellness services to better address the health of community members. This requires us to provide tools and services where people live, work and play.”

Hays noted, “This funding comes at a critical time for our health care system. COVID-19 has dealt a severe negative financial blow to all health care organizations, requiring hard decisions. Maintaining funding for community health is always a challenge. This gift allows us not only to continue but to expand our prevention and healthy living programming as we focus operational dollars on COVID-19 recovery and disease-specific health care needs.”

The endowment supports investments in:

• Expanding the reach of MaineGeneral’s current Prevention & Healthy Living – now named the Peter Alfond Prevention & Healthy Living Center – which provides free and low-cost classes on healthy cooking and eating, physical activity and mind-body health. Classes will expand to worksites as well as other places throughout the area to increase access.
• Enhancing access to teaching kitchens, including working with our community partners, and using pop-up kitchens to teach individuals how to make healthy, affordable and tasty food at home with their families. Additionally, this funding will support culinary medicine efforts throughout our system.
• Expanding community health outreach through a team of Community Health Workers (CHWs) who will meet people “where they are at” and link them to
• needed care and resources to improve their health and quality of life. CHWs are trusted members of the community who understand community resources and needs. CHWs facilitate access to services and improve the cultural competence of service delivery.
• Evaluation of supported programming to ensure that the goals of improving personal and public health are being met through these efforts, and sharing best practices so other communities may benefit from successful strategies and tools.

Peter Alfond’s children said, “It was our father’s sincere desire to improve the quality of life of those living in the Kennebec Valley. The Peter Alfond Prevention & Healthy Living Center is the result of his vast knowledge of wellness, his entrepreneurial spirit and his relentless philanthropic zest. This gift represents a final manifestation of our father’s vision of a sustainable solution to improving one’s quality of life through a multi-faceted approach.”

Most recently, the Peter Alfond Foundation invested in community health at the Alfond Youth & Community Center (AYCC) in Waterville, ME. Those funds supported facility enhancements and accessible programming, including services provided by MaineGeneral Health, to engage more area residents.

The additional $8 million investment in the AYCC by the Peter Alfond Foundation broadens the Center’s ability to address whole family wellness by providing 1:1, small class and large group wellness classes and activities to all community members. The endowment will support the sports medicine and teaching kitchen programs offered by MaineGeneral at the AYCC.

“Peter was a friend, a supporter and a mentor who led the way in wellness in the community and the expansion of our facility’s focus,” explained Ken Walsh, AYCC CEO, “and his kids are ensuring the success of his visions. Knowing that a place is nothing without the people who plan and deliver the programs to its members, this endowment secures the Wellness Center operations and staff positions well into the future and gives us the ability to employ the most talented and visionary folks around.”

Barbara Crowley, MD, Peter Alfond Foundation Endowment Leader at MaineGeneral Health, is overseeing the implementation of the MaineGeneral endowment funds.

“We lost Peter Alfond, visionary, friend and philanthropist, nearly three years ago,” Dr. Crowley said. “Peter believed passionately in disease prevention and healing through access to good nutrition, exercise, stress management and mindful living. He cared so deeply about this community and we are honored to receive this gift from his family and foundation to help us further his vision.”

Peter Alfond served nearly a decade on the MaineGeneral Health Board of Directors. He invested in wellness opportunities that became the teaching kitchen and cafeteria in the Alfond Center for Health, and in the creation of new programming accessible to all in the community under MaineGeneral’s Peter Alfond Prevention & Healthy Living Center.

“The people of the Kennebec Valley will benefit for generations to come because of the impact Peter Alfond has made and these gifts from his foundation,” Dr. Crowley said. “We are deeply grateful to Peter’s children for continuing his vision.”

Over the past several weeks, Gardiner FCU has donated about $23,000.00 to food pantries and organizations who provide food to area families, with food insecurities.

Record numbers of people are unemployed. Schools and many daycares are closed. Children who may have received two meals a day, at school or daycare, are now at home. As a result, the need for assistance at area food pantries has never been greater. “I spoke to a source at one pantry, who is seeing twice as many families. Another has seen the number of people increase four times over.” States Kelly Marie, Marketing Coordinator for Gardiner FCU.

The Credit Union typically holds fundraisers, year-round, to benefit the Campaign for Ending Hunger. Realizing the urgent need, they released those funds early and also made separate contributions to the Gardiner Tiger Food Pantry and to the Good Shepherd Food Bank, where many of the pantries supported by GFCU, go to get items to fill their shelves. When Townsquare Media approached the Credit Union with their Virtual Food Drive, for Good Shepherd, GFCU jumped at the chance to lend support, making a donation to Good Shepherd and sponsoring the first hour of the drive, on air, on both the Moose & the Bee. Their virtual food drive, found on their website, has raised over $32,000, as this is written.

“We are not alone in our efforts to help our local families and food banks. We are proud to be doing our part. I saw a post about Faith Food Pantry losing a freezer full of food and having refrigerator issues too,” said Kelly. “No sooner had I seen the post, than I saw another from Faith saying thanks to the outpouring of support, they had replaced all they had lost and then some. People who can help are stepping up and helping so many.”

There are many ways to help, even when practicing social distancing. You can contact a food pantry, in your area, and ask them what their greatest need is. They may need diapers, toilet paper, or shampoo, as well as canned goods or gift cards they can use to purchase needed items, as they shop. If you are able to help, give them a call. Bread of Life 207-626-3434; Chrysalis Place 207-582-5507; Faith Food Pantry 207-203-0002 Food for Thought 207-737-9150; Hallowell Food Bank 207-992-6899; Janice’s Community Food Pantry 207-582-5283; South Gardiner 207-582-7807; Spectrum Generations Meals on Wheels 207-626-7777; Gardiner Tiger Food Pantry 207-582-3150; Big Brothers Big Sisters of Kennebec Valley 207-582-8458; Chelsea Food Pantry 207-480-9239.

Once the lobby reopens at Gardiner FCU, they hope to resume fundraising for Ending Hunger. For now, they are accepting monetary donations are accepted through drive up, or by leaving donations with a note, in their drop box.

MaineGeneral Medical Center (MGMC) has received a five-year, $2 million grant from the Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to support efforts that address youth trauma.

“This National Childhood Traumatic Stress Initiative Grant enables MaineGeneral’s Edmund N. Ervin Pediatric Center to build on existing community and medical staff partnerships to improve the capacity of mental health providers in central Maine to provide evidence-based trauma services to children,” said Chuck Hays, president & CEO of MaineGeneral Health.

The Central Maine Youth Trauma Initiative, fully funded by the federal grant, will enable the Pediatric Center to:

· Provide training for up to 100 providers in well-researched, effective therapies for children who have experienced trauma or are in high-risk situations;

· Provide education and support to foster parents in caring for children who have experienced trauma; and

· Create a Trauma 101 curriculum that will be provided at no cost to organizations that serve children who have experienced trauma, such as schools.

The need for a robust effort to address trauma comes in the wake of Maine’s high rates of opiate addiction and increased risks to children from rising rates of poverty, parental unemployment and the loss of social supports during COVID-19.

“Expanding evidence-based treatment and training will bring much-needed help to countless Central Maine youth,” said Dr. Stephen Meister, medical director of MaineGeneral’s Edmund N. Ervin Pediatric Center. “We know the need for these services is great. In 2019, Maine experienced a 42 percent increase in children coming into state custody, and all these children have experienced trauma. It’s essential that we strengthen our capacity to support these young people.”

For the first time in the theater’s history, Theater at Monmouth will not produce a Summer Repertory Season. After months of planning for the 51st Season, the theater will remain dark for the foreseeable future. While TAM had been preparing patrons, artists, and staff for the inevitable, having paused ticket sales in early March, they were surprised by Governor Mill’s announcement of the Four-Stage Plan to re-open Maine on April 28.

“We surveyed our patrons early on and had an idea of what they would and wouldn’t do in response to the continued spread of the coronavirus and what guidance they would be looking for from state and national officials before making a decision to come to the theater again.” said Dawn McAndrews, TAM’s Producing Artistic director. “On April 28, we expected that the Governor would announce an extension of the Stay Healthy at Home mandate and were hoping for guidance on how best to move forward during the pandemic. Governor Mill’s announcement confirmed that arts organizations and particularly theaters would not be opening for some time. We recognize that many patrons will be disappointed by the news but due to the continued threat of COVID-19, we’ve decided to postpone the 2020 season.”

TAM’s Board President, Ryan Dumais, agreed, “Since early-March, the Board of Trustees has been monitoring developments surrounding COVID-19. It had been our hope that the situation would improve more quickly and that we might be able to go ahead with our 51st season of classic theater here in Monmouth. Unfortunately, things have not turned out that way. After nearly two months of meeting, planning, and strategizing, the Board came reluctantly to the conclusion that it has no alternative but to forego production of our 51st season in the summer of 2020, and to move that season instead to the summer of 2021.”

Before the Governor’s announcement of the four-stage plan to reopen the State, it was already clear that it would be extraordinarily difficult to go ahead with TAM’s summer season in a way that protected the health and well-being of audience and company members. Any lingering hopes that somehow, someway, the season might happen were dashed with the announcement of plans for reopening the State. Unfortunately, under that plan, theaters will be among the last classes of establishments to re-open. Closing, though not easy, was the right and responsible decision for the well-being of company members and audience.

Theater at Monmouth previously cancelled its spring Page to Stage Education Tour PACHANGA! Latinx Stories for Kids in consultation with school administrators. This annual tour brings adaptations of classic literature to elementary and middle school students throughout Maine and into New Hampshire. McAndrews continued, “We looked for ways to bring this production to students through video or live streaming but with actors and director coming from New York City, it would have been impossible to guarantee the safety of artists and our community.”

Theaters across the country have shuttered, and many artists find themselves suddenly unemployed. It is essential that Maine’s only Classical Repertory Theater does not collapse. By making the difficult choice to postpone productions this summer, TAM hopes to ensure that it will survive until next year and thrive in the summers to come.

TAM’s 2020 (R)evolutionary Season was scheduled to begin public performances on June 27 and conclude August 27. The season was programmed to celebrate Maine’s Bicentennial, the 100th Anniversary of Women’s Suffrage, and the Election Year. Summer Repertory plays included Shakespeare’s Cymbeline directed by Eddie DeHais and Julius Caesar directed by Bill van Horn; the Maine premiere of Mat Smart’s The Agitators directed by Josiah Davis; a World Premier of Callie Kimball’s Sofonisba directed by Dawn McAndrews; Edward Albee’s Seascape directed by Kate Bergstrom. The Family Show, Aesop’s Guide to Friendship adapted by Dawn McAndrews and directed by Ian Kramer, annually reaches young people and the young at heart.

TAM currently plans to produce the plays of the (R)evolutionary Season in 2021. Thanks to an outstanding group of artists, technicians, and administrators, the summer was on its way to being one the theater’s strongest yet; and they look forward to coming back stronger than ever in 2021.

“We believe that arts are essential during times like these but until there is a vaccine and universal testing, it seems impossible to bring people together in the intimate space of any theater and ensure the safety of all. Know that this is not a curtain call. This is only an intermission. And we will be back for the next act.”

Find TAM on: http://twitter.com/TAMonmouth | http://www.facebook.com/TAMonmouth https://www.instagram.com/theateratmonmouth | http://theateratmonmouth.org/

Bar Harbor, Maine – Bar Harbor Bank & Trust has helped our customers navigate many financial crises and economic downturns over the last 133 years. We are committed to serving our customers and supporting them as we navigate through the COVID-19 crisis. We recognize each customer need is unique, and we will continue to provide personalized, individual service and support. If you are experiencing financial difficulties due to COVID-19, we are here to help. Give us a call at 888-853-7100.

Our local branches are open and here to serve you. See below for additional information about your local branches and their hours:

Branch Name: South China

Branch Address: 368 Route 3, South China, ME 04358

Branch Phone Number: 207-445-4865

Branch Hours:

• Monday: 7:30 am - 4:00 pm
• Tuesday: 7:30 am - 4:00 pm
• Wednesday: 7:30 am - 4:00 pm
• Thursday: 7:30 am - 4:00 pm
• Friday: 7:30 am - 5:30 pm
• Saturday: 9:00 am - 12:00 pm

Branch Name: Waterville

Branch Address: 335 Main St, Waterville, ME 04901

Branch Phone Number: 207-877-9900

Branch Hours:

• Monday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
• Tuesday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
• Wednesday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
• Thursday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
• Friday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
• Saturday: 9:00 am - 12:00 pm

Types of Service Available: The drive ups at these locations are available for regular transactions and lobby appointments are available for needs that cannot be handled at the drive up. Please call the branch directly to make an appointment with a banker.

24/7 Remote Banking options: We are proud to provide our customers with many tools to allow them to complete their banking without leaving the safety of their home. We offer online banking, mobile banking with mobile deposit, telephone banking, and more. Additionally, our locations offer Smart ATMs that allow customers to withdraw money and deposit checks. Don’t want to use cash? Consider using your Bar Harbor Bank & Trust debit card with Contactless Payment Technology, just tap and pay. Visit our website to learn more: https://www.barharbor.bank/bank-anywhere

Home mortgage payment relief:  If you are wondering what your mortgage payment relief options are as a homeowner, please contact our Customer Service Center at 888-853-7100.  They will connect you with a dedicated team member who will work with you to review all of the options available and build a solution for your particular situation.

Business loan payment relief: If you are a business customer or business owner wondering what your loan payment relief options are, we encourage you to connect with one of our Commercial Bankers. They can discuss the different options available, including the SBA Paycheck Protection Program, and will develop a solution specifically for your needs. Contact one of our branches or our Customer Service Center at 888-853-7100 to get connected with a Commercial Banker.

Cash management solutions: Running your business during this time of social distancing can present challenges and we are here to provide solutions. We can help answer your questions about FDIC insurance, credit card processing, depositing checks remotely, moving money electronically, and more. We offer a variety of products and services to help you run your business remotely, securely and efficiently. Simply give us a call at 888-853-7100 and ask to be connected to our Treasury Services Group.

Beware of scams:  Be aware of specific coronavirus-related scam information by visiting the Federal Trade Commission’s website. Bar Harbor Bank & Trust will never ask you for your personal information without your prompting.

We are here to help. Many of our employees are working remotely to minimize face-to-face contact. Those employees can be contacted directly or by calling our Customer Service Center, which remains open and ready to assist you.  Simply call 1-888-853-7100.  You can learn more about our response to coronavirus here: www.barharbor.bank/coronavirus

Bar Harbor Bankshares (NYSE American: BHB) is the parent company of its wholly owned subsidiary, Bar Harbor Bank & Trust. Operating over 50 locations across Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont, Bar Harbor Bank & Trust is headquartered in Bar Harbor, Maine and has more than $3.6 billion in assets. As a leading Northern New England community bank, Bar Harbor Bank & Trust offers a full range of personal and business banking services, as well as wealth management services through its subsidiaries Bar Harbor Trust Services and Charter Trust Company. For more information about Bar Harbor Bank & Trust, visit www.barharbor.bank or call 888-853-7100. Member FDIC.

Chuck Hays, president & CEO of MaineGeneral Health, recognized the first responders who greeted MaineGeneral staff today outside the Thayer Center for Health in Waterville and those from the Augusta area who greeted staff at the Alfond Center for Health in Augusta last week.

Chuck’s statement follows:

We’re so inspired by the outpouring of support from our fellow first responders in our community. They’re our partners, with us all year round and during these unprecedented times. We are honored to work beside them, and are so thankful that they are part of our team, protecting our community every day.

All the support we have received in our community brings joy and inspires our staff who are on the front lines of this crisis. This outpouring of support – whether donations of homemade masks or other equipment or simple messages of thanks – has helped us take care of others.

We know this is a challenging time. Everyone is making sacrifices.

We’re here for you, your family and our community. We’ve trained for this, and while there are great unknowns, be assured you have skilled, compassionate care when you need us.

Bar Harbor Bank & Trust has announced the availability of several online resources that parents can use at home to teach their children about finances. The content, which consists of worksheets, articles, coloring sheets, and more, is geared towards students K-12 and includes content for Spanish-speaking families. All of the resources can be accessed at www.barharbor.bank/financial-education.

“Students have transitioned to remote learning because of COVID-19, and we wanted to ensure that parents had access to valuable financial education content that can be taught at home,” said Joseph Schmitt, SVP and Chief Marketing Officer at Bar Harbor Bank & Trust. “Learning how to save and plan for the future is more important than ever, and we hope these resources will help put children on a path to a lifetime of financial success.”

The financial education content was created by the Bank’s partner, The American Bankers Association (ABA) Foundation. Since 2006, the Bank, in coordination with the ABA Foundation, has sent bankers into local classrooms to teach students valuable lessons about finances and how to become smart money managing adults.

The content on the Bar Harbor Bank & Trust website covers topics such as How to Talk to Your Kids about Money, Wants vs. Needs, and Budgeting in the Real World. There is also content for high-school students planning for college.

Bar Harbor Bankshares (NYSE American: BHB) is the parent company of its wholly owned subsidiary, Bar Harbor Bank & Trust. Operating over 50 locations across Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont, Bar Harbor Bank & Trust is headquartered in Bar Harbor, Maine and has more than $3.6 billion in assets. As a leading Northern New England community bank, Bar Harbor Bank & Trust offers a full range of personal and business banking services, as well as wealth management services through its subsidiaries Bar Harbor Trust Services and Charter Trust Company. For more information about Bar Harbor Bank & Trust, visit www.barharbor.bank or call 888-853-7100. Member FDIC.

Local food banks and food pantries able to stock their shelves.

When faced with unprecedented times, we all want to know that there is help available in times of need. Unfortunately, the resources we have are limited and it is the responsibility of the community to ensure underserved people are able to utilize them when needed. Food banks and food pantries are there to assist every person possible, but they need our help to be successful. Everyone has experienced a time when they were unsure how to find the necessary resources to meet their most basic needs, so we need to work together to take care of those who need our help the most.

Because New Dimensions FCU cares about its community and wanted to do something to help, they have donated over $11,000 to seven local food banks and food pantries. Ryan Poulin, CEO, states, “We all must play a role in keeping our community healthy and safe, so we quickly rallied to donate the funds to the quickly dwindling food banks and food pantries that needed it most. Everyone needs to eat, and we are doing our best to help as many people as possible, get through this pandemic.”

New Dimensions FCU wants you to remain healthy! With you, your family, and many communities in mind, we have found ourselves in a time of uncertainty, but know that together we will come out of this stronger, more united, and able to walk into the future with a solid understanding of what it takes to work together.

If you have any questions or need financial assistance, contact New Dimensions FCU at (800) 326-6190. Stay Healthy!

To address growing challenges and financial hardships due to the spread of Coronavirus (COVID-19), Camden National Bank announced several measures to support its customers, employees, and communities.

“We recognize that this is a very stressful time for individuals, families, and businesses,” said Greg Dufour, President & CEO of Camden National Bank. “In order to provide flexibility and better peace of mind for those in need, we are taking extra steps to alleviate financial burdens and support our customers, community and employees.”

COVID-19 payment relief program for customers

Supporting individuals and families

• Up to 90-day loan deferment program for those facing financial hardship due to interruption in income on qualified loans. During this time, interest will accrue, but customers won’t be charged any late fees or have impacts to credit.
• Additional flexibility in access to credit products and support, as well as waived penalties for early CD withdrawals

Supporting business customers

• Waived late charges for payments on qualified loans
• Flexibility for higher limits related to remote deposit capture
• Options for payment relief on commercial and small business loans, based on need
• Assistance with access to any government sponsored support, including any state or federal lending assistance programs, such as Finance Authority of Maine (FAME) or U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)
• Expedited FAME and SBA application process for qualified businesses impacted directly or indirectly by the pandemic, including vendors or other external business partners

The Bank is also encouraging customers to take advantage of its network of 71 ATMs and its full range of digital tools and services, which can be used remotely. With online and mobile banking, customers can monitor their accounts, deposit checks, pay bills, transfer funds, pay friends, live chat for assistance, and more.

Customers with challenges, needs, or questions can reach out to their local banking center by phone or the Customer Care Team, available 24/7 at 800-860-8821.

“This is an important time to reiterate that Camden National Bank continues to be very well capitalized,” continued Dufour. “Through thick and thin, we lean into our identity as an innovative, caring community bank since 1875 with strong core values and a talented team that is here to support our customers and neighbors. In addition to our previously planned nonprofit support, we’re making special donations to local food pantries and hunger relief agencies at this time.”

Supporting employee health and wellbeing

Earlier this week, the Bank announced it would be temporarily moving to drive-up service only at its banking center locations, with in-person visits by appointment, in order to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. The Bank has also been ramping up cleaning efforts at all its locations.

In order to keep employees safe, the bank is increasing education on appropriate hygiene practices and social distancing. It has also modified its travel policy, restricting business travel and requiring notification of personal travel to higher-risk locations. In addition, applicable employees are transitioning to working from home temporarily, with a goal of having more than half of the bank’s workforce remote in the coming week.

“We’ve been closely monitoring guidance from the CDC and local authorities to protect the health of our employees,” continued Dufour. “Using internal communications tools, we’re educating everyone on best practices and benefits resources that can help employees during this challenging time. To provide a buffer of support, we’ve also added $100,000 to our Employee Emergency Fund, designed to help confidentially pay emergency bills for employees in need.”     

Relevant updates and the latest information can be found on Camden National Bank’s Coronavirus Updates page.

Today, Camden National Bank announced it will be implementing new precautionary measures to support public health efforts to manage the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) while continuing to provide full banking services to its customers. Starting March 18^th, Camden National Bank will be offering drive-up only service at the majority of its banking center locations, with in-person visits by appointment only at those locations. For locations without a drive-up window, the bank will be limiting the number of customers inside at any given time.

“For the health and safety of our customers, employees, and communities, we are temporarily adapting how we provide in-person service for our customers,” said Greg Dufour, President & CEO of Camden National Bank. “Drive-up service, with in-person visits by appointment, will minimize risks and help prevent the spread of the virus while enabling us to continue providing the essential banking services our customers rely on.”

Camden National Bank offers a full range of tools for customers to manage their finances and get support and guidance remotely. With online and mobile banking, customers can monitor their accounts, deposit checks, pay bills, transfer funds, live chat for assistance, and more—all from the comfort of their homes. The bank also offers a network of 71 ATMs across its footprint and 24/7 customer assistance by phone at 800-860-8821.

During this time, Camden National Bank has been ramping up cleaning efforts in its banking centers and offices, encouraging social distancing and best practices for staying healthy, and transitioning non customer-facing employees to work at home. The bank has also significantly grown its Employee Emergency Fund, a reserve for providing confidential financial support to any employee in need of emergency assistance.

“We’re grateful for our dedicated, caring employees and customers during this challenging time for all,” continued Dufour. “Our Business Continuity Team is closely monitoring the situation and guidance from health experts and authorities to make proactive adjustments and refinements to our response plan. I have the utmost confidence in our preparedness and ability to provide reliable customer support as always.”

Anyone who has questions or needs assistance is encouraged to call their local banking center or the Customer Care Team at 800-860-8821. Updates and information can be found at www.CamdenNational.com.

Starting March 17, 2020, New Dimensions FCU lobbies will be closed until further notice. However, Drive-Thru will be open for NDFCU members while we get through this Coronavirus situation.

Click her to learn more: https://conta.cc/2TSvGug

Did you know that our immune system is incredibly sensitive to our thoughts and emotions? So when you are trapped in a negative emotion, science has proven that it weakens your immune system and leaves you more susceptible to illness, such as, colds and flu viruses. There are ways in which you can release these trapped emotions and raise your energy to build a stronger immune system. One offering is the Trapped Emotions release sessions with Teresa Zardus here at the Zardus Art of Massage. These sessions will help to restore and balance your mind/body connection. What we think and what we tell ourselves can either build us or break us, try a session today to build yourself up and to prevent illness! This technique can be done in person or through distance using a proxy. Release those trapped emotions and allow positivity to flow! 

Check out https://www.zardusartofmassage.com/wellness-specialty-services or call 207-446-7470 to schedule a 30 minute session or take advantage of a 4 week package with Teresa today!

Another amazing energy healing is Reiki. Reiki is an ancient healing technique where the practitioner uses the universal life force, or universal energy to move any stuck energy inside our bodies. When energy is allowed to flow through our chakras freely our bodies become more balanced. Reiki can help to dissolve energy blocks and assist your body in cleansing itself from toxins and supporting the immune system. Reiki promotes peace and relaxation and reduces pain.  Like the trapped emotions release therapy, Reiki can be done via distance. According to the Hermetic Law of Similarity, we are all energy matter and thus connected in a part of the larger whole. This allows the practitioner to send Reiki energy through time and space and heal you from the comfort of your own home!

Check out https://www.zardusartofmassage.com/wellness-energy-work or call 207-446-7470 and schedule your Reiki session with Tess today! 

Try one or both to help protect your body from dis-ease! 

The Maine State Museum in Augusta opens its Maine bicentennial exhibition, “Regional Struggle – National Story: Maine’s Path to Statehood” on Saturday, March 14. The museum will be open free of charge from 10 am to 4 pm that day. In a special commemoration of Maine Statehood Day on Sunday, March 15, the museum will also be open free of charge from 10 am to 4 pm.

“Our new exhibition provides a remarkable look at the events and people, woven together over centuries, that led to Maine’s independent statehood. Through artifacts and documents, the exhibition reveals the world of Maine’s Wabanaki people before and after Europeans came to Maine’s shores,” notes Museum Director Bernard Fishman. “The exhibition uncovers conflicts between elite landowners and farmers in the late 1700s. It also shows how the War of 1812, along with political and economic disagreements with Massachusetts, set the stage for debates over Maine’s separation. The exhibition takes a fascinating look at Maine’s part in the slave trade and shows the dilemmas faced by Maine people who, because of the Missouri Compromise, were forced to choose between independent statehood and the expansion of slavery in the United States.”

“Through the museum’s own collections, as well as pieces on loan, we are featuring many objects never or rarely seen by the public,” according to Angela Goebel-Bain, the exhibition’s curator. “These include stunning portraits of Maine’s first governor and his wife by famed artist Gilbert Stuart, an early frock coat worn by a Maine farmer, the oldest known ballot box used in Maine, a colorful uniform worn by a soldier in the new state of Maine’s first militia, a watercolor showing Maine’s first State House in Portland, and an important 1815 Moses Greenleaf map with notations from an 1820 expedition into Maine’s northland.”

“Regional Struggle – National Story: Maine’s Path to Statehood” has been funded in part by a grant from the Maine Bicentennial Commission. The exhibition will be on view at the Maine State Museum through March 2021. Related educational materials for use by teachers will also be available on the museum’s website by late March 2020, and several museum-sponsored or co-sponsored special events will take place throughout the bicentennial year.

The Harlow invites artists to submit artwork to Art2020, the 25th annual juried show. Art2020 will be on view May 15-June 20, 2020 at 100 Water Street in Hallowell with an opening reception on Friday, May 15 from 5-7.  Art2020 is open to all Maine artists and to any artist with a strong connection to Maine. The deadline for submissions is 11:59pm on April 1, 2020.

This year’s juror is Erin Hutton – an art advisor, curator, and founder of Erin Hutton Projects. For more than twenty years, she has immersed herself in the art world as an artist, educator, gallery director, curator, film production assistant, and designer. To read more about Erin Hutton please visit harlowgallery.org/annual-juried-show/juror/

Original fine art in any media may be submitted, including but not limited to painting, sculpture, digital, printmaking, fiber, photography, mixed media, ceramics, installation and more. Each artist may submit up to three works of art, which must be the artist’s own original work created within the last three years. Art that has been previously exhibited at the Harlow is not eligible. All works entered must be original work by the submitting artist. Giclees and other reproductions are not eligible. 

For complete details please visit harlowgallery.org/art2020

The Harlow is a membership based 501(c)3 nonprofit dedicated to connecting and celebrating art, artists and community in downtown historic Hallowell since 1963.

As some of you remember last April, we had our Team Teal Savings Challenge. This was a challenge that put things into perspective when it came to spending money. It showed us exactly where our hard-earned dollars were going and even managed to prove that even small changes can add up! Last year, Team Teal employees gave up buying their coffee, quit smoking cigarettes, and buying breakfast or lunch. Instead, they began packing their lunch, making coffee at home, and saved their money for one whole month. At the end of the month, they were surprised at the amount of money they were able to save. Collectively, they saved over $2000!  Wow! Go, Team Teal!!! All that money saved, just for giving up a few small things each day.

That challenge worked out so well last year that we’ve decided to do it again…and THIS time…we are inviting YOU, our members to join the fun! Let’s see how much we can save throughout the month of April by giving up just one small thing each day! Beginning April 1, 2020, we ask that you give up buying your Dunkin Donut’s coffee, buying lunch downtown, or any other cost you spend at convenience stores, fast-food establishments, or coffee shop. At the end of the week, tally up what you saved by NOT purchasing these things and put that sum into your savings account. Each Friday morning send me an email at  and tell me how much you saved that week. It doesn’t matter if it was one dollar, $10, or $100, any savings is still a savings and we will track it! We will be providing weekly updates throughout the month and we encourage you to follow the progress everyone is making and be sure to tell us how you are doing too…You might be hating every moment of it but you may also find that it’s not that bad. (Even if you hate it, when you see your savings at the end of the month, you MAY change your mind) ha-ha. At the end of April, we will add up everyone’s savings to see if we can beat last year’s totals!

I, personally, am going to focus on not eating out at all! My goal is to be better at meal planning so there will be intentional leftovers for my lunches. Any time you set a savings goal or challenge; it is important to communicate with the people that can help you achieve success. I will be getting my children involved, with the hopes they will contribute to meal ideas, as well as understanding when I say sorry no pizza this Friday! The money we save by not eating out will go towards a family goal.

If you are ready to be part of our Team Teal Savings Challenge let me know! Send me an email and tell me what you are going to save instead of spend throughout April. I am so excited to see how much we can collectively save and what you can do with all that extra money at the end of the month! If you need help crafting a budget or are looking for ways to increase your savings contact me today at  or (207) 872-2771.

This past weekend, Camden National Bank gave nearly $7,500 in donations to ten Maine high school teams in the communities where it has banking centers for the 2020 Boys and Girls Basketball State Championships. The support made it possible for more than 1,500 students to attend this year’s games in Portland, Bangor, and Augusta and cheer on their friends and classmates. Camden National Bank has now carried on this community tradition for 11 years, donating nearly $60,000 total to Maine high schools and enabling more than 12,000 students to attend Championship Games for free.

This unique sponsorship originally started when a Camden National Bank employee called attention to the fact that many high school students do not have the funds to buy tickets and see their teams play in the Championships. Those students miss out on seeing the game and being a part of this important community event. The employee brought her concern and idea to the Bank, and they committed to supporting the students with tickets, free of charge.

“It is incredible to see how this grassroots community effort has become a great tradition for local students, families, and our employees over the years,” said Greg Dufour, President & CEO of Camden National Bank. “Congratulations to all the teams that competed in the Championship games this year. Your dedication and teamwork—as well as the support from your classmates—are energizing and inspiring for all.”

Towns supported by Camden National Bank in the 2020 State Championship games were Hampden, York, Auburn, Saco, Winthrop, Machias, Hermon, and Greenville. To learn more about Camden National Bank’s community giving efforts, please visit https://www.camdennational.com/about/our-story/community-commitment.

Zardus School of Massage is now enrolling for spring and fall terms! Enroll by March 15th and take advantage of Reflexology as a part of you massage therapy certification! Enjoy a more individualized one-on-one approach with smaller class sizes and full time school without the full time hours. Licensed by the State of Maine Department of Education as well as an assigned school by the National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork and American Massage Therapy Association. Reserve your spot today! Zardusartofmassage.com or call 207-446-7470

MaineGeneral Health has announced that applications are now being accepted for its 2020 Health Scholarship Program.

Scholarships support the education of health care professionals in the Kennebec Valley and are available to individuals pursuing degrees in a variety of health-related disciplines.

In 2019, MaineGeneral Health and individual sponsors awarded more than $48,000 in scholarships to 57 students in the Kennebec Valley. Scholarship recipients ranged in age from 17 to 45, pursuing degrees in nursing, radiology, pharmacy, sports medicine, social work and other health care careers. Scholarships generally range $500 to $2,500 each.

To learn more about MaineGeneral’s Scholarship Program and how to apply, visit https://give.mainegeneral.org/scholarships. The application deadline is Wednesday, April 1.

Bar Harbor Bank & Trust recently presented donations totaling more than $9,000 to local non-profits from its employee-driven charitable giving program, Casual for a Cause. The program pools employee contributions collected each quarter and distributes them to non-profits selected by and voted on by the employees. The recipients of the Q4 2019 contributions are: Big Brothers Big Sisters of Bath/Brunswick; Emmaus Homeless Shelter; Upper Valley Habitat for Humanity; and Girls on the Run Vermont.

“These nonprofit organizations play a very important role in supporting those in need in our communities,” said Jack Frost, VP Director of Community Giving at Bar Harbor Bank & Trust. “Our employees are proud to support their efforts through our Casual for a Cause program.”

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Bath/Brunswick matches children in Brunswick, Harpswell, and Sagadahoc counties in Maine with adult and teen mentors who provide friendship, support, and guidance during the kids’ critical childhood and adolescent years. The organization serves nearly 300 children annually with more than 17,000 hours of volunteer service. Learn more about them at www.bbbsbathbrunswick.org.

“Big Brothers Big Sisters of Bath/Brunswick is incredibly appreciative of this important gift from Bar Harbor Bank & Trust,” said Lindsay MacDonald, Executive Director of BBBS. “With this donation, Bar Harbor Bank & Trust shows their support of one-to-one mentoring programs for youth that are facing adversity. Our professionally supported Big and Little relationships are proven to help the youth of our communities have higher aspirations, improved educational success, and better relationships so that they achieve their full potential in life.”

Emmaus Homeless Shelter provides a safe and comfortable environment for those in need of temporary shelter who are willing to work towards ending their homelessness. The program commits to helping the poor by offering a wide range of services referrals to anyone in need. Learn more about them at www.emmaushomelessshelter.org.

“The Emmaus Homeless Shelter is honored to be selected by Bar Harbor Bank & Trust as a recipient of the Casual for a Cause program,” said Stacey Herrick, Director of Emmaus Homeless Shelter. “This generous donation will be used towards general operating costs which will help support all of our many programs.”

Upper Valley Habitat for Humanity brings people together to build homes, communities and hope. They partner with families to help them build a place they can call their own to achieve the strength, stability and independence for building a better life. Learn more about them at www.uvhabitat.org.

“This generous donation furthers our mission to provide safe, healthy and affordable homes for neighbors in our community who otherwise would not be able to purchase a home,” said Eva Loomis, Executive Director of Upper Valley Habitat for Humanity. “Specifically, this donation supports our project to build a high-performance duplex in Lebanon for two families. We are grateful for Bar Harbor Bank and Trust’s commitment to the communities they serve and for their strong and continued support of Upper Valley Habitat programs and events.”

Girls on the Run Vermont is an inclusive physical activity-based, positive youth development program that inspires girls in 3rd through 8th grade to be joyful, healthy, and confident. The ten-week program led by trained volunteer coaches teaches critical life skills, encourages personal development, and fosters team building and community service. Girls on the Run Vermont serves girls at 45 sites in Southern Vermont. Learn more about them at www.gotrvt.org.

“What a tremendous gift it is to have community partners like BHBT,” said Amanda Hoffman, Development Manager for Girls on the Run Vermont. “With the support of Bar Harbor Bank and Trust, we are able to inspire girls to be joyful, healthy and confident using curriculum based education that incorporates running.”

Bank employees dress casually on Fridays in exchange for a contribution to a pool of funds collected during each quarter. The employees then select and vote on three nonprofits to receive their contributions. Gifts contributed by Bank employees in 2019 totaled just over $40,000.

Magnusson Balfour team members Craig Church and Dennis Wheelock were the recipients of the 2019 Triple Gold Award and the Double Gold Award respectively. Church has been with Magnusson Balfour since 2009 and Wheelock joined the team in 2012. Both come from strong real estate and entrepreneurial backgrounds with Church covering the greater Portland region and Wheelock covering the greater Augusta region.

In addition, the Magnusson Balfour team was the recipient of the 2019 Platinum Group Award for all of Keller Williams Realty in the state of Maine.   

Magnusson Balfour Commercial & Business Brokers moved to Keller Williams Realty in 2018, bringing a strong team of real estate professionals with over 127 years of experience to world’s largest real estate company. Learn more about the team at www.balfourcommercial.com.