Learn to Ski or Snowboard Free Week takes place January 4 - 10

January is Learn a Snow Sports Month. Maine is among thirty two states across the country participating in this celebration of Winter. The winter snow sports of skiing and snowboarding fuel an important part of Maine's economy. From Fort Kent to South Berwick, and from the Western mountains to the Camden Hills, accessibility to skiing and snowboarding is easy for Mainers.

January is the heart of winter and according to Greg Sweetser, Executive Director of the Ski Maine Association, "Learn a Snow Sports Month is a great way to encourage people to get outside to enjoy the cold, snowy weather. Learning a winter sport promotes a healthy activity and fights the boredom of being indoors."

To kick off the January Learn a Snow Sports Month, seven Maine ski areas are offering Learn to Ski or Snowboard FREE lesson and equipment packages for one week, January 4 through 10. The Ski Maine Association will process all requests for these packages through the Ski Maine website. Participating ski areas are, Camden Snow Bowl, Lost Valley, Mt. Abram, Saddleback, Shawnee Peak, Sugarloaf, and Sunday River. More than 150 packages will be available through Ski Maine.

Complete details, including all learn to ski / snowboarding programs, snow conditions, and driving directions are available on the Ski Maine web site: www.skimaine.com

Green Living Project - Maine Premier Jan 7

"Sustainability Across Maine" - Sponsored by National Geographic Adventure

Having documented 30+ sustainability-related projects across 10 countries in Africa and South America, Green Living Project™ is proud to premier its first multi-media event on unique sustainability projects in Maine! This is a must-see event for any traveler, sustainability advocate, or Maine enthusiast! Experience the team's journey across Maine and learn about Maine Huts & Trail's cool new hut-to-hut system, Chewonki's unique sustainability programs, Primo's backyard organic farm, Local Sprout's popular local food movement, Maine Compost School, Inn by the Sea's leading green initiatives, and Island Institute's pioneering wind-energy projects along the islands of Midcoast Maine! Come learn about cutting-edge sustainability issues, these exciting projects, and how you can get involved! Join us for this special Maine event!

Free $25 L.L.Bean Gift Card! Free door prizes, travel packages from select projects, and Gear Raffle from National Geographic Adventure, Gregory, Keen, Clif Bar, and more! A portion of the event proceeds will be donated to some of these Maine projects.

For more info, check out: www.greenlivingproject.com/maine09

DATE
Thursday, January 7, 2010
7:00-9:00pm

LOCATION
Frontier (207) 725-5222
14 Maine St, Fort Andross, Brunswick, ME 04011

HIGHLIGHTS

* Unique multi-media event on unique sustainability projects across Maine

* First 50 attendees receive a $25 L.L.Bean Gift Card, Keen socks, and more!

* LIVE music at the event

* Beer, wine + food provided by Peak Organic Brewing Company + Frontier

* Free door prizes & gear raffle from event sponsors

* Free travel package from Maine Huts & Trails, Inn by the Sea, Primo, and more!

FEATURED PROJECTS
Maine Huts & Trails
Island Institute
Chewonki
Inn by the Sea
Primo Restaurant
Maine Compost School
Local Sprouts Cooperative
Guyot Designs

Portland Harbor Hotel Heats Up Winter With Annual Ice Bar January 28, 29, and 30

PORTLAND, Maine - Cold is cool these days and the Portland Harbor Hotel Annual Ice Bar is the epitome of cool. Taking place Thursday, January 28, Friday, January 29 and Saturday, January 30, the Ice Bar has become the winter go-to event for Portlanders seeking a fun way to embrace the season. Located outside in the hotel's courtyard, bundled patrons sip on specialty martinis, wine and local beers at bars sculpted from more than 18,000 lbs of ice by executive chef, Earl Morse.

Morse is an expert ice carver with extensive experience. He earned two Bronze Medals in World Ice Sculpting Championships in 2004 and 2005 as well as a Gold Medal in European Ice Championships in 2003. Ice Bar 2010 will use nearly three times as much ice as in 2009.

Surrounded with white lights, outdoor firepits, and gleaming ice sculptures, the Ice Bar is open from 4:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. each day. Ice Bar admission is a $10 donation in support of Center for Grieving Children, Share Our Strength, and Junior Achievement. Complimentary light hors d'oeuvres will be served during the evenings accompanied by live entertainment.

Visit www.portlandharborhotel.com, or call 207-775-9090 for more information about the Ice Bar event.

It's winter - time to get racing. Upcoming Tri-Maine races

Brisk mornings and starry nights make winter on the coast one of Tri-Maine's favorite times of the year. It's also when Tri-Maine gets to put on exciting races in beautiful locations. Here are three that you should check out!

Moonlight Climb at Sugarloaf
The last event of our 2009 season is a special one. Join us for an extraordinary EVENING MOUNTAIN RACE!
When: December 29th, 2009
Where: Sugarloaf Ski Resort
What: Race by the light of your headlamp under the night sky. Start at the base and ascend to the finish at Bullwinkle's Lodge. Choose the 1-mile short course or the 5-mile long course. Compete on snowshoes or Tele/AT skis and celebrate your epic excursion with dinner at the Sugarloaf Inn. The races start at 4:45 pm and are open to ages 14 and above.

The PolarBear 5k
When: February 13th, 2010
Where: Downtown Portland
What: Keep your motivation high as the temperature drops. With a low entry fee, the PolarBear 5k makes a great target running race during the depths of winter. It's part of Portland's WinterRush Celebration, a family-friendly day of outdoor activities taking place in downtown.

The Pineland Farms Winter Triathlon and Snowshoe Race
When: March 7th, 2010
Where: Pineland Farms, in New Gloucester, ME
What: Snowshoe (4K) OR Run (5K) - Bike (10K) - Ski (6K). There is also a 4K Snowshoe race. Relay Option available for the triathlon.
Course: Snowshoe and ski on Pineland's beautiful trails, run and bike on the roads of New Gloucester. Relax in the warm Visitor's Center after the race.

FMI or to register: www.tri-maine.com

Free writing group with focus on memories of growing up in downtown Biddeford

The Heart of Biddeford and the McArthur Library will be sponsoring a weekly writing group on Wednesday mornings 9:30-11:30 for the month of January- The classes, facilitated by Lisa Barstow (author of Don't Go Back to Sleep, a memoir) will focus on writing down memories of growing up in Biddeford. Prompts, or triggers, are given as a way to bring the memories to the page and then time will be taken to share our stories with one another.

You do not have to be a writer to attend! When we share our writing we give positive and encouraging feedback. At the heart of our circle are the experiences we have had living in our city, and even the memories of generations past whose stories have been passed down to each of us.

This class is offered as part of the Heart of Biddeford HeartSpots Project for the revitalization of downtown Biddeford. We hope you will attend!!

Classes held at the Library on Wednesday, January 6th, 13th, 20th, and 27th-

Class size limited to 8. To sign up please call (207) 284-8520

Complimentary valet parking until Dec 20 in Freeport

Let LL Bean help you get all your gifts under the tree in time. Whether you're just getting started or ready to wrap things, the Freeport retail campus has something special for everyone on your list.

Complimentary valet parking until Dec 20

Free gift wrapping all weekend

Camden Harbour Inn and Natalie’s Restaurant Awarded 4 Diamonds for Second Year in a Row

CAMDEN, Maine - Camden Harbour Inn and Natalie's Restaurant have once again ranked among the top hotels and restaurants in the nation, earning Four Diamonds from AAA.

The AAA Diamond Awards are North America's most coveted symbol of excellence in the industry, with stringent guidelines to attain Four Diamond status. Four Diamond restaurants exhibit advanced degree of technical skill and complex cooking techniques, often requiring the efforts of a series of skilled chefs to facilitate the efficient execution of `a la minute for virtually every ingredient used in the main course offerings.

Four Diamond properties must offer refined and stylish accommodations with a high level of quality throughout, include an extensive array of amenities combined with superior service and attention to detail.

"This year has been a great year for us," said Raymond Brunyanszki, co-owner of Natalie's and the Camden Harbour Inn, "we earned high praise from National Geographic Traveler, Travel & Leisure and others, and we believe that our decision to add to our extensive offerings, instead of scaling back due to the economy, contributed to the recognition for the Inn and restaurant." Brunyanszki added, "We are celebrating the 135th anniversary of the Inn with a very special package, and will continue to create interesting and unique packages to appeal to our guests." The Camden Harbour Inn and Natalie's are the only Inn and restaurant in Camden with Four Diamonds.

The Camden Harbour Inn offers world-class service and amenities, and 18 unique guestrooms and suites - each with a distinct style and dazzling view # and every conceivable modern convenience. Opulently decorated with a stylish mix of rare antiques and modern chic designs, several guestrooms offer wood burning fireplaces, balconies and/or private decks. With its inviting wrap-around porch, white clapboard siding, fine roof lines and stunning views, the Inn attracts a discerning upscale clientele who return often to experience one of New England's most tranquil, inspired and treasured settings.

The Inn's on-premise restaurant, Natalie's, has been called the finest gourmet eatery in Maine. Natalie's is a stunning restaurant offering Modern French cuisine with a local Maine twist and 200 specialty wines from its exceptional wine cellar. The restaurant recently launched a new bar menu, offering dishes inspired by flavors from around the world. Natalie's offers sophisticated décor, impeccable service and gourmet dining without the pressure of formal attire, served under the culinary direction of Executive Chef Lawrence Klang. Chef Klang recently was invited to prepare a course for a dinner in Maine featuring top chefs from around the country, including Jean-Georges Vongerichten.

For information or reservations, visit www.camdenharourinn.com, or call 207-236-4200.

January 5th show with Ryan Cabrera and Pete Kilpatrick has been cancelled

CANCELLED

RYAN CABRERA with special guests Pete Kilpatrick Band and Howard Jennings
Port City Music Hall
January 5 at 8pm

The January 5th show with Ryan Cabrera and Pete Kilpatrick has been cancelled. Refunds are available at point of purchase. Port City Music Hall apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause fans.

Show us your talents: Maine’s Got Talent

Maine does have talent, and now it's your turn! On Saturday, February 6, 2010, at 6 PM at the High Street Congregational Church on Pleasant Street in Auburn, a preliminary for the 2010 Maine's Got Talent will be held. (If necessary, snow date will be Sunday, February 7, 2010 at 2 PM.)

Participants, ages 5 years and up, may be solo, duet, or group acts which may include singing, dancing, gymnastics, playing an instrument, etc. Entry fees are singles $20.00, duet (2 people) $35.00 and groups (3 or more people) $50.00. The winner of this preliminary will win a trophy and the chance to compete for $500 cash prize and an audition with Dolphin Entertainment at the Maine's Got Talent finals on Saturday, April 10, 2010, at the Hilton Garden Inn in Freeport, Maine.

What have you got to lose? Join the fun and excitement at the High Street Congregational Church on Saturday, February 6, 2010 at 6 PM! After all, you could be the next Maine's Got Talent winner!

To participate or receive an entry form, contact Lindsey Le at mainesgottalent@gmail.com or (207) 344-9574. OR Sheri Clark at sheriaclark@msn.com or (207) 784-6063. Deadline for entry is Monday, February 1, 2010.

WPB presents a monthly dance party on every first Saturday

In the cold of winter 2010, Portland's most exciting and vibrant music venue is forming with Maine's electronic music organization to present Portland's definitive dance party.

Beginning Saturday, January 2nd, WPB Presents takes up residency at the Port City Music Hall the first Saturday of every month. Curated by WPB founders Moshe, j.hjort and Todd the Rocket, the series will showcase the best in Maine's DJ talent, with all eyes on the dancefloor.

All veterans of Portland's dance music community, the residents have been compelling jubilant dancefloors in to action for countless years. They have been performers and presenters of virtually every dance institution in Southern Maine, from Zoots to the Zodiac Parties. Their featured guests represent the best in electronic music talent from across New England.

Portland is a dance music city; from recent devotees who have been to the WPB monthly events, to the scores of people who built this scene up over years of promotion. wepushbuttons is more than thrilled to offer all of these people Portland's most dynamic dance night in our city's newest and most well-appointed venue.

The schedule of events is as follows:

Saturday, January 2nd: Ryan Obermiller (Marz Entertainment/ Red Door Portsmouth)

Saturday, February 6th: "popgirl" 23 ( Mamma's House / Portland)

Saturday, March 6th: Megha (413 dnb / Empress Sounds MA / Threshold CT)

Harlem Globtrotters' 2010 "Magical Memories" World Tour to bring high-flying fun to Portland

"World's most famous team" bringing all-new spectacular show to the Cumberland County Civic Center.

Coming off the most successful year in the franchise's illustrious
history, with a record-breaking 62 box offices records and over two
million smiling fans, the iconic Harlem Globetrotters are primed to
showcase their eye-popping 2010 "Magical Memories" World Tour/ in
Portland on Friday, March 26, 2010 with the wholesome family
entertainment known worldwide for thrilling fans young and old and
making cherished family memories.

Now in their 84th consecutive season of touring the world, the
Globetrotters' high-flying show features some of the most extraordinary
athletes and entertainers on the planet # including the reigning Clown
Prince of Basketball, Special K Daley, ball handling wizard Scooter
Christensen, the always hilarious Ant Atkinson, the gravity-defying
El Gato Melendez, and many more.

"The Harlem Globetrotters are the epitome of world-class family fun,"
says Michael Kenney, the Globetrotters' senior vice president, live
event marketing. "You'll want to get your tickets now for an experience
the whole family will be talking about for years to come."

Sponsored by Campbell Soup Company, Spalding, Howard Johnson and
America's Best Contacts and Eyeglasses, the Harlem Globetrotters will
take the court on Friday, March 26, 2010 at the Cumberland County
Civic Center at 7:00 p.m. Tickets start at $26.00 and are available
online at www.Ticketmaster.com. Individual ticket information can also
be found on the Harlem Globetrotters' official Web site:
www.harlemglobetrotters.com, as well as info on group and scout tickets.

The Globetrotters will perform nearly 270 shows in over 200 cities in 44
states, the District of Columbia, five Canadian provinces and Puerto
Rico through the first week of May 2010.

The Original Harlem Globetrotters have played in 120 countries on six
continents, entertaining over 130 million fans and crossing barriers
between cultures, societies and people from all walks of life. The
Globetrotters are one of only six teams to be inducted into the Naismith
Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. For the latest news and information
about the Harlem Globetrotters, and to purchase team merchandise, visit
the Globetrotters' official Web site: www.harlemglobetrotters.com.

Pies On Parade, an Inn-to-Inn extravaganza of pie samplings and demonstrations, January 24, 2010

Historic Inns of Rockland, Maine, Celebrate National Pie Day with Pies On Parade, An Inn-to-Inn extravaganza of pie samplings and demonstrations, January 24, 2010

Rockland, ME - January 23, 2010 marks National Pie Day, according to the American Pie Council. Because nothing tops a cold winter day like a warm piece of pie, the Historic Inns of Rockland, Maine, will celebrate pie throughout the weekend with the 6th Annual Pies On Parade, Inn-to-Inn Pie Tour, scheduled for January 24, 2010, 1:00-5:00pm (rain, snow or shine!). Along with a wonderful collection of recipes to take home and samples of more than 40 different pies, the inns will offer tours of common areas and some guest rooms. In June, 2007, the Food Network named Rockland Pie TownUSA when renowned chef, Bobby Flay, came to challenge the "Pie Moms" to a Throwdown.

To live up to their Pie Town reputation, a number of Rockland restaurants and shops will join in the pie-fun offering samplings of everything from chicken pot pie to pizza pie, and also once again trolley service between all of the participating businesses will be provided by All Aboard Trolley.

Proceeds from this event benefit the Area Interfaith Outreach Food Pantry. With need at an all-time high, your participation becomes all the more important. Over the past five years, nearly $20,000 has been donated from this event to help provide food for Midcoast families. With this year's donation, Historic Inns of Rockland expect to make it to the $25,000 donation mark.

Those visiting Historic Inns of Rockland during the January 24th Pies on Parade Inn-to-Inn Tour, will be treated to a sweet and a savory pie at each inn, including such traditional favorites as cherry, apple, and berry pies . For those who care for something a little less traditional, fabulous pies such as Raspberry Cheese Pie, Kiwi Berry Tart, or Sun Dried Tomato and Goat Cheese Breakfast Pie, Key Limerock Pie and possibly even a Seafood Pie will be offered, along with their recipes, so tour goers can make them at home.

As a bonus, Rockland businesses will offer pie tour goers samplings and the chance to learn more about their winter menus. The following restaurants will participate; pie treats being served might tentatively include (based on 2009 menus):

Pastry Garden: Chocolate Decadence Pie
Amalfi: Lemon Tart and Seasonal Fruit Crostade
Café Miranda: Signature Mojo Pizza Pie
In Good Company: Assorted Pizzettes featuring local ingredients (Maine Crab with roasted tomatoes
Lily's Bistro: Lemon curd pie with ginger crust

Saco Museum closed January 1-14 for renovations

The Saco Museum will close January 1-14, 2010 for long-awaited renovations. The hardwood floors on the first floor of the museum historic 1926 building, designed by renowned architect John Calvin Stevens, will be refinished, and new lighting will be installed in the South Gallery, which is the first gallery visitors see upon entering the museum.

"These renovations are a long time in coming," said Leslie Rounds, Executive Director of the Dyer Library and Saco Museum. "In the spring we will premier our new, permanent exhibition of local history [Making History: Art and Industry in the Saco River Valley, opening May 29, 2010], and that has inspired us to make these renovations now so that our historic building will provide an appropriate showcase for our new exhibition and our collections."

The museum will reopen to the public at noon on Friday, January 15, 2010, and the special exhibition Practicing What We Preach: Work by Maine Art Educators will open at 10 a.m. on Saturday, January 16. A special opening reception for this exhibition will take place on Saturday, January 23, from 1 to 3 p.m. The reception is free and open to the public. For more about Practicing What We Preach, please visit the museum's website at www.sacomuseum.org.

The Dyer Library will retain its regular hours throughout January:
Mon, Wed, and Fri: 9:30-5
Tues & Thurs: 9:30-8
Saturday: 9:30-12:30

Sea Dogs Mom's Day 5k regrstration now open

Online registration for the Mom's Day 5k & FREE Kids Fun Run is now open. Go to www.baystateevents.com or
www.seadogs.com to register. The 10th. edition will run on May 9th. Paper entry forms will be in the mail sometime in January.

Race organizers have set a cap of 3,000 entrants this year. If this cap is reached prior to race weekend, there will be no race weekend registration.

Heart of Biddeford Welcomes New Executive Director: Ezekiel Callanan

BIDDEFORD$The Heart of Biddeford (HoB) is excited to announce the hiring of a new executive director, Ezekiel Callanan.

A Maine native, Callanan is a graduate of the University of Maine School of Law and the University of Connecticut. As the co-founder of the Maine Volunteer Lawyers for the Arts, Callanan brings a proven passion for community service and the arts to his new role at the Heart of Biddeford.

"I am very excited to be a part of Biddeford," says Callanan, who began his duties on November 30. "This is a wonderful city and I am eager to promote local businesses, host interesting and fun events, and attract new local money to the downtown district."

"We're really excited that Ezekiel is the new Executive Director for the Heart of Biddeford," says Megan Rochelo, president of the HoB's Board of Directors. Rochelo led the search committee to fill the key position. "The Heart of Biddeford put a great deal of time and thought into this process," she says. "We are in a great position to continue moving forward and helping make downtown Biddeford a vibrant and thriving place for everyone."

Callanan will be in attendance when the HoB hosts the annual Holiday Festival in downtown Biddeford on Friday, December 4 from 5-7pm.

Longtime HoB director Rachel Weyand will remain at HoB in a part-time capacity until the end of the year. In addition to returning to studies at University of Southern Maine, Weyand has accepted a position with Portland Trails.

"We will all miss Rachael," says Rochelo, "we wish her the best of luck in her future endeavors, and know that the HoB and Biddeford is in a great place because of the work she has began."

The Heart of Biddeford is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Formed in 2004, it is devoted to revitalizing downtown Biddeford. While the HoB is a separate entity, it works in conjunction with City Hall, and utilizes a four-point approach developed by the National Main Street program focusing on design, economic restructuring, organization, and promotions.

Naughty and Nice Xmas Caroling, courtesy the folks at CIEE, Dec 16

Come all ye carolers to the first annual Naughty and Nice Xmas Caroling - hosting jointly by the CIEE After Hours and Outdoor Club Committees.

When?
Wednesday, December 16

Nice Portion of the Evening:
Meet @ 6:30 at North Star Café (225 Congress Street) and start the evening off with a hot chocolate for the kiddies or a hot toddy for the adults # once officially warmed up # we'll head out onto the streets of the East End around 7 pm to start the caroling.

Naughty Portion of the Evening (21+): Meet around 8pm at Snug, start hopping at 8:30. We'll be hitting the local pubs with some Xmas cheer heading down from the East End into the Old Port until we can sing no more. Click here for our planned route of festivities.

Who?
All voices accepted (louder the better)

Bring family, friends, pick up strangers off the street # we encourage all good natured carolers to join in

What Should I Bring?
Obviously your Xmas spirit and loudest singing voice, but do dress to impress - ugly sweaters and festive attire (aka santa hats) encouraged. We'll bring some music sheets to keep us all in singing formation.

Who Do I Look For?
Event Planners Include Mary Anne Higgins, Lauren Chaney, Heather Laverriere, and Kristen Ankeny # call or text 610 603 3773 if you are seeking us out in route the evening of.

16th Annual Great Chili and Chowder Challenge February 14, 2010

The Great Chili and Chowder Challenge, sponsored by Altrusa International Inc, of Portland, Maine, will be held Sunday, February 14, 2010, 12:30-3:00 p.m. at the Holiday Inn By The Bay, 88 Spring Street, Portland.

Treat your family and friends to a hearty hot lunch of Chili and Chowder from the area's best restaurants and caterers. Over 30 chili and chowder recipes will be available for tasting and then you get to vote for your favorites!

A Special Preview will be held from 11:30 - 12:30 for guests who would like to sample the products and speak with the chefs about their recipes prior to the event's opening to the general public. Tickets to the Preview are limited to 100 people.

Come join the fun, cast your vote for the best chili and chowder Greater Portland has to offer; listen to the music and support Altrusa volunteers who give service in their community.

Tickets are $17.50 in advance & $20.00 the day of the event for general admission. Children 12 and under pay their age. Preview tickets are $50.00 and limited to 100 people.

For tickets and more information: Theresa Mancini 207-772-0379

Maine Restaurant Week, March 1-10, to Benefit Hunger Relief

PORTLAND, Maine $ Maine restaurants are joining forces to present the second annual Maine Restaurant Week Monday, March 1 to Wednesday, March 10, 2010. New this year, during Maine Restaurant Week 2010, funds will be raised for leading anti-hunger programs through multiple events and a "give-now" button on the event's website www.mainerestaurantweek.com. Event dates and related information will be posted on or around February 1, 2010.

Maine Restaurant Association's Dick Grotton, the longtime voice of Maine's thriving restaurant industry, is credited with calling for the link between Maine Restaurant Week and helping with the fight against hunger in Maine. Grotton spoke of the need for hunger relief, "One in four Maine families lives with hunger or is at risk of hunger. Maine Restaurant Week is a good opportunity to draw attention to this crisis and to help by raising money."

During Maine Restaurant Week, chefs around Maine will offer three-course dinners at $20.10, $30.10 or $40.10. New for 2010, lunches for $15.10 and special offers at participating lodging properties.

Restaurants and lodging properties interested in participating in Maine Restaurant Week should visit www.mainerestaurantweek.com or call (207) 775-2126 in order to be included on printed materials. Final registration deadline is Friday, February 1, 2010.

David Gray at Merrill Auditorium April 7

David Gray tickets go on-sale Monday, December 14 at NOON and will be available at the PortTix Box Office at Merrill Auditorium or online at www.livenation.com.

Tickets are $39.50 and $29.50, reserved seating, all ages.

Despite worldwide sales of 12 million albums and two consecutive Top 20 releases in the U.S., David Gray went for "a complete overhaul" on his upcoming seventh studio set, Draw the Line.

"I knew I was gonna change things even as far back as making (2005's) Life in Slow Motion, " the British singer-songwriter tells Billboard.com. "I could feel the creative spark was sort of diminishing between the people who were involved, and it was maybe going to be time to move on and try to do something different. So that's basically what I set about doing in a whole manner of different ways, just reconnecting with music and building a new band and a new sound."

Gray is releasing two versions of Draw the Line: the standard 11-track set that includes the first single, "Fugitive," and guest appearances by Annie Lennox ('Full Steam Ahead') and Jolie Holland ('Kathleen'); and a deluxe edition that comes with an eight-track live CD recorded at the Roundhouse Theatre in London. And, he says, there's plenty more where that came from.

"This is really just a small slither of it, this album," Gray reports. "We did 35, 40 songs; there was just something going on, I think, and I didn't want to stop it. These (songs) are what we picked to go out, sort of be the frontrunners to go out and punch the world in the face."

Draw the Line was released September 22 on Mercer Street Records.

December Greendrinks: Tuesday, December 8th at GMRI

Before you get too deep into your holiday grog, come deck the halls of the Gulf of Maine Research Institute on December 8th from 5:30-8:00 pm. The GMRI atrium is playing host to its second Greendrinks event, except this time the sponsor organizations are the Natural Resource Council of Maine and Repower Maine. Drop in to get your green on before the holidays get into full swing.

The folks at both organizations have been working together as part of a 27 member coalition to bring about comprehensive reform of federal energy legislation. The NRCM is an old hand at this stuff, with a half century of fighting for clean renewable energy and energy efficiency, north woods conservation, reducing the use of toxic chemicals, and watershed protection. Chief among their goals is to get more people engaged. "Greendrinks is a great place to meet like-minded professionals," explains Lisa Pohlmann, deputy director at NRCM. "We're always interested in connecting with young people, but the timing is especially fortuitous, given the upcoming global climate meeting in Copenhagen."

Repower Maine, while newer to the Maine political scene, is still fighting the good fight. Their goal is to convince Senators Snowe and Collins that our nation needs to rethink its approach to energy and reevaluate our collective impact on the global climate. Much like NRCM, Repower wants to get people (Greendrinkers included) off the sidelines and engaged in the process$whatever your political views may be.

"Democracy begins at the voting booth, it doesn't end there," says Andrew Kain, Repower Maine's state director. "Regardless of whether you agree with us or not that's fine; an engaged citizenry needs to stay on top of their elective officials. We all need to make our voices heard."

So come out on the 8th and let's hear those voices roar. Oh, and as always break out your drinking vessels and turn on your charm because it's time to get your Green on!

Written by Peter McDougall
http://maukamakai.wordpress.com

Gritty McDuff's Brewing Company launches official beer of the Maine Red Claws: Red Claws Ale

Gritty's and Red Claws to introduce signature beer at December 10 event in Portland

The Maine Red Claws (www.maineredclaws.com), the new, NBA Development League's team for the Boston Celtics and the Charlotte Bobcats, today announced a ground-breaking sponsorship agreement with Maine craft brewer Gritty McDuff's Brewing Company (www.grittys.com). The arrangement authorizes Gritty's not only to produce the team's official beer, "Red Claws Ale," for sale at The Portland Exposition Building itself ("The Expo," the Red Claws' home court), but also to offer it throughout Maine in bars, restaurants, and market retailers a creative move in NBA circles.

In a recent CNBC story about the growing popularity of D-League NBA teams ("NBA D-League on the Rise"; http://tinyurl.com/yb4xg9j), Darren Rovell, CNBC sports business reporter, spotlights the Maine Red Claws and praises the team for connecting with its target audience by strategically finding the right home city, and generating one of its most creative team sponsorship deals with Gritty McDuff's.

"We have been extremely fortunate to have received an incredibly warm reception from Maine companies, and our relationship with Gritty's is evidence of that," said Red Claws President and General Manager Jon Jennings. "Local companies have been eager to partner with us and have joined us in crafting creative packages that are mutually beneficial. There are some fantastic products being produced right here in Mainers' own back yard, and the Red Claws are proud to play a part in spreading the word.

"This sponsorship program with Gritty's is innovative and exactly the type of inventive, long-term partnership we hope to form with Maine-based businesses," Jennings continued. "We are proud that Gritty McDuff's thought so highly of the Red Claws to want to enter into this partnership and produce Red Claws Ale. We're looking forward to serving Red Claws Ale at the Portland Expo, and are even more excited to see it on shelves at area retailers and on tap at local bars."

"Having this kind of product-focused relationship with an NBA development team is huge news for Gritty's and for Portland," agreed Richard Pfeffer, Gritty's co-owner and publican. "We worked with the Maine Red Claws staff to create a genuinely unique sponsorship, and we all believe it's an ideal way to raise awareness of and support for Portland's new basketball team throughout the Northeast."

Formal Launch Event for Red Claws Ale
To celebrate its historic sponsorship deal with the Maine Red Claws, Gritty's McDuff's Brew Pub in Portland (396 Fore St.) will formally launch its Red Claws Ale during a celebration for fans with Red Claws players, coaches, management, and the team's dance team performers on Thursday, December 10, from 5-8 p.m. Red Claws players will be on hand to sign autographs, and guests can register for prize packages featuring Gritty McDuff's and Red Claws merchandise.

During the December 10 launch party, Jennings and Pfeffer will mark the occasion by making the ceremonial "first pull" on the Red Claws Ale tap, and Dajuan Eubanks, vice president of corporate partnerships for the Red Claws, will present Pfeffer with an official, signed jersey to hang on the wall of Gritty's Portland. Additional Gritty's pub locations in Freeport and Lewiston also will commemorate the launch of Red Claws Ale with food and drink specials for local fans.

Availability of Red Claws Ale
As official beer of the Maine Red Claws, Gritty McDuff's beer will be the only Maine microbrew product available during games at The Expo (239 Park Avenue). Beginning December 10, Gritty's also will be offering its signature Red Claws Ale on draught at Gritty's three Maine brew pub locations (Portland, Freeport, and Lewiston/Auburn) and in select bars and restaurants in Maine.
Twenty-two ounce bottles of Red Claws Ale will be available at many area retailers. A sought-after item among collectors and beer and sports enthusiasts, Red Claws Ale tap handles also will be available at Gritty's Brewtique in Portland by the first of the year.

Throughout the NBA season (December 4, 2009 April 3, 2010), Gritty's will offer a variety of game-night specials. In addition, Gritty's will toast wins, new players, and the play-off season with a variety of pub specials and events throughout the season, with plans underway for a "Team Draft" party for fans during the official NBA Draft.

About the Maine Red Claws
2009-10 will mark the inaugural season for the Maine Red Claws. The NBA D-League team will begin play in November at the Portland Expo Building. The franchise is owned and operated by Maine Basketball, LLC, which is principally owned by Bill Ryan Sr., the chairman of TD Bank, and Bill Ryan Jr., owner and operator of Oxford Plains Speedway. Jon Jennings, a partner in Maine Basketball, LLC and former Boston Celtics assistant coach, is the team's president and general manager.

About Gritty McDuff's Brewing Company
Since its founding in 1988, Gritty McDuff's, Maine's first brew pub since Prohibition, has brewed creative, quality beers that have earned awards ranging from repeat First Place wins at the annual Real Ale Festival in Chicago, to its most recent award: a silver medal at the prestigious 2007 Great British Beer Festival for Gritty's cask-conditioned version of the 21 IPA. Gritty's Brew Pubs also have frequently won in statewide polls the titles of "Maine's Best Brew Pub," "Best Maine Microbrew," and "Best Bar."

In addition to brewing, Gritty McDuff's operates three popular brew pubs in Maine. Located in Portland, Freeport and Lewiston/Auburn, the locations draw crowds of all ages. Known for their four seasonal ales and five year-round ales, tempting pub fare and welcoming atmosphere, Gritty's pubs have been named an Editor's Pick by Condé Nast Traveler, highlighted as "a legend among New England brewpubs" by The Boston Globe, and cited by Playboy.com as one of the best bars in America. Gritty's has earned numerous accolades from a wide variety of beer blogs and industry press outlets, as well, including Every Day with Rachael Ray, Forbes.com, DRAFT magazine, Cosmopolitan, and Santé.

Chester Greenwood Day! A celebration of the man who invented ear muffs

Dec 05, 2009: Chester Greenwood Day is the annual celebration of the famous inventor of the earmuff, Farmington's own Chester Greenwood! Parade at 11 a.m. in downtown Farmington (parade entries line up at Mallet School on Middle Street at 9 a.m.) with cash prizes for winning floats. Chili contest and Gingerbread House contest following parade at Franklin Savings Bank admin building on Front Street. Chester Greenwood Flag Raising at the Franklin County Courthouse after the parade as well.

Farmington Historical Society will display vintage Greenwood items at the Titcomb House, as well as selling holiday wreaths. The Farmington Rotary Club's Annual Festival of Trees will be at the Granary Restaurant all day, with an auction of the trees taking place that evening.

The Polar Bear Club members annual dip into frigid Clearwater Lake will take place at 3 p.m., and is always a crowd pleaser! For info phone (207) 778-4215.

ME VLA's: The Artist's Checkbook Dec 3 in Portland

Local Arts Groups Collaborate to Support Unique Education Opportunity for Area Artists

Thirteen different creative-based Maine organizations have united for one cause. Maine Volunteer Lawyer for the Arts (MEVLA), a newly formed non-profit, having already provided hundreds of thousands of dollars of legal service referrals for local artists, is now providing educational opportunities for the community. MEVLA was founded in 2008 by current Executive Director Ezekiel Callanan, who was recently voted by the public as the "2009 Volunteer of the Year" at the Step Up To The Plate awards ceremony hosted by the League of Young Voters.

The first educational programming MEVLA has organized, "The Artist's Checkbook," has struck a nerve. Organizations as varied as The Portland Symphony Orchestra, Five River Arts Alliance, Maine College of Art and 10 others have joined to support this program. Information will be sent to over 15,000 Mainers through these organizations to get the word out.

So what is the buzz about? This is a premium educational opportunity for creative entrepreneurs of various backgrounds and experience. MEVLA's panel of professionals, from relevant financial and business fields, will present basic concepts vital to managing some of the financial aspects of one's own creative business. A networking session will follow the educational program and allow for further discussion with attendees and sponsors. Light refreshments will be provided in part by Local Sprouts Cooperative.

The "Artist's Checkbook" will be held Thursday, December 3rd at 5:30 pm at the brand new Wishcamper Center, 34 Bedford Street in Portland on the USM campus. The registration fee is $10 in advance or $13 the day of the event. For those who pre-register online at www.maineVLA.org, MEVLA members receive free admission and members of collaborating organizations may attend for $5.

The full list of participating organizations includes: Institute for Financial Literacy, Center for Law and Innovation, Maine Arts Commission, Maine College of Art, Portland Music Foundation, Portland Stage, Portland Symphony Orchestra, Space Gallery, MENSK, Five Rivers Arts Alliance, Portland Arts & Cultural Alliance, Propel, The Salt Institute, Creative Portland Corporation, and the newly formed Maine Film Co-op.

MEVLA looks forward to hosting future events in areas throughout Maine to further service the many arts communities of Maine.

PICNIC Holiday Sale Saturday, Dec 12

The first ever Picnic Holiday Sale is on Saturday, December 12, 2009!

This juried indie craft fair will be held indoors at the Maine Irish Heritage Center (formerly St. Dominic's Church) at 34 Gray St at State St in Portland ME. The sale will run from 1pm to 8pm. Hope to see you there!

*There is plenty of street parking available and a small lot at the Heritage Center (enter on Danforth St for the lot). The Holiday Inn by the Bay on Spring St has a parking garage and outdoor lot next to the hotel that charges $1/hour.

www.picnicportland.wordpress.com

Hit downtown Portland this Saturday for Shop For A Cause Day

Shop downtown on Saturday, December 5th for Shop For a Cause Day and a portion of the sales from participating stores will be donated to Preble Street's Florence House, a comprehensive housing and resource center for homeless women in Portland opening in January by the Preble Street organization. Florence House, opening in January 2010, will provide safe, supported permanent housing to chronically homeless women in Portland.

The owner of Portmanteau, Nancy Lawrence says, "As a long time participant in Shop For A Cause Day, I cannot think of a better way for locally owned businesses to give back to their community."

Participating stores for Shop For A Cause Day can be found here.

Shop For A Cause Day is part of Portland's Downtown District's month-long celebration, Light Up Your Holidays. For over 8 years, Shop For A Cause Day has been a unique way for the businesses to give back to a community organization. Some previous recipients are Boys and Girls lubs of Southern Maine Big Brothers, Big Sisters, Day One, the Caleb Adult Center, Preble Street Resource Center and the Frannie Peabody Center

Also, please join us during our month long holiday celebration, Twelve Days of Christmas! Every weekend during the holiday season, 12 Days in all, we will hold drawings for valuable gift packages from your favorite local stores every week!

For more information about PDD's Shop for a Cause Day, Twelve Days of Christmas or other holiday events, please visit portlandmaine.com.