DRIVE INTO
SPRING 3 EPIC MAINE ROAD TRIP IDEAS & WHAT NOT TO MISS ALONG THE WAY WHEN BUYING A LEASED CAR MAKES SENSE • WHY MAINTENANCE IS IMPORTANT A Special Advertising Section of the Bangor Daily News • Friday, February 28, 2020
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DRIVE INTO SPRING
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February 28, 2020
A CURE FOR
CABIN FEVER 3 Epic Spring Road Trips Right Here In Maine BY KAREN TIETJEN
A ROAD TRIP is one of the best ways to tour a region at your own pace, and once the roads have thawed, there’s no shortage of exciting things to see, do, and taste right here in Maine. So if your cabin fever has
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reached its peak, you don’t need handfuls of time (and money) to plan your next adventure, come spring. After a post-winter tune-up, hop into the car and hit the road to become a “tourist” within the state. Whether you have a day, a weekend, or a week to spare, you can plan a driving route to make your escape, stopping at
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local gems along the way.
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TAKE “THE SCENIC ROUTE” ALONG ROUTE 1 You can spend a day poking around a couple of the coastal towns along Maine’s Route 1 or an
2. CAMDEN
4. FREEPORT
the way. Skimming through some of the state’s
Swing by Camden and head to Mount Battie,
You can’t pass through Freeport without
most scenic destinations, Route 1 can be followed
where a short 1.1 mile hike will bring you
making a stop at the outlets, where you’ll
from Belfast to Portland (and beyond in either
to some of the best views in the state. When
find deals at name-brand stores like The
direction) to experience some of the state’s best
it’s time to re-fuel, make a pit stop at Uncle
North Face, J. Crew, Carter’s, and more. Of
shops, attractions, and eats. Rebecca Hubbell,
Willie’s Candy Shoppe to restock your snack
course, Freeport is also home to the L.L.
creator of the food and travel blog Sugar & Soul
stash with old-fashioned favorites. And if you
Bean flagship store, a must-see stop when
and a Bangor area local, recommends some of
decide to spend the night, the Inn At Ocean’s
you’re in the area.
her favorite local gems along the way.
Edge captures coastal luxury and “is really
entire week touring the coast and stopping along
Glamping at Tops’l Farm. PHOTO COURTESY OF REBECCA HUBBELL/SUGAR & SOUL
Looking down Wharf Street in Portland’s Old Port. PHOTO COURTESY OF KAREN TIETJEN
1. BELFAST
lovely,” says Hubbell.
5. PORTLAND Having earned a reputation as a foodie
This seaside city is home to Delvino’s Grill
3. WALDOBORO
& Pasta House, one of Hubbell’s favorite
While not as sought out by tourists, Hubbell
Portland with a big appetite. Make your way to
eateries in the state. “The blueberry sangria
shares two reasons that Waldoboro is worth
the Old Port and sample small plates at Central
is incredible,” she said. “I always get the
the trip. Glamping at Tops’l Farm lets you
Provisions, dock-fresh seafood at Eventide
hand-tossed pasta.” For lighter fare, she
retreat into nature without giving up modern
Oyster Co., authentic Chinese cuisine at
recommends Chase’s Daily, offering fresh farm-
conveniences and “is a fun and unique place to
Empire, fried treats at HiFi Donuts, gourmet
to-table vegetarian cuisine including pastries,
stay if you want to disconnect.” Also in town
dessert at Gross Confection Bar, drinks (both
breakfast, and lunch options. Just be sure to
is Morse’s Sauerkraut, one of the blogger’s
alcoholic and non) at Vena’s Fizz House …
check availability ahead of time; they’re closed
favorite places to take out-of-staters. “The
the list goes on. If you choose to spend the
on Mondays and certain dates throughout the
Espresso Soda is incredible, and we love their
night, Hubbell says she’s had her eye on The
year (including two weeks in late March).
Eastern European menu,” she said.
Pomegranate Inn in the West End.
destination in and of itself, you’d best come to
February 28, 2020
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DRIVE INTO SPRING
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CRUISE THE MAINE WINE TRAIL A trip to Napa would be nice, but there are plenty
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of vineyards and wineries right here within driving distance. With over two dozen wineries throughout Maine, map out a self-guided tour amongst a cluster of them (and designate a safe driver, of course).
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For a weekend drive around the
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greater Bangor area, spend a couple
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of days cruising the trail in different
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3
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1
directions. Before hitting the road, just
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DRIVE TO ACADIA
be sure to check the availability of your planned stops (note that some wineries
While a trip to Acadia National Park in Bar
on this list have limited seasons and open
Harbor (located on Mount Desert Island) can
in May). You can also map your own road
easily occupy an entire week’s trip, those
trip by visiting MaineWineTrail.com.
looking to explore more of Downeast Maine should check out the surrounding area, too.
1. CELLARDOOR WINERY IN LINCOLNVILLE
Beginning at Acadia, which is about an
Cruise toward the coast and in about an hour
for those who want to spend less time driving
from Bangor, you’ll find this hot spot. Here, vino
and more time doing.
lovers can enjoy tastings, events, and winery tours.
PHOTO COURTESY OF CELLARDOOR WINERY
hour’s drive from Bangor and three hours from Portland, this is the perfect “road trip”
(Season begins in mid-April.) You can also visit
1. BANGOR TO ELLSWORTH
their Portland location at The Point; just check their
Start your trip in Bangor, home to the urban
website for availability if you’d like to do a tasting.
amenities that will kick your drive off
2. WINTERPORT WINERY IN WINTERPORT
right. Hubbell says that a must-do for horror enthusiasts is the Stephen King tour (hosted
The Lamb Gyro Eggs Benedict is a favorite brunch item at Provender in Ellsworth. PHOTO COURTESY OF PROVENDER
Make your way back toward Winterport a two-for-one treat: Not only can you sample
by SK Tours of Maine, LLC) which features local haunts that inspired the “King
wines, but you can sip local beers from the on-site Penobscot Bay Brewery, too!
of Horror” himself. Or, take a drive to less spooky attractions including the Paul
3. SHALOM ORCHARD ORGANIC WINERY IN FRANKLIN
Bunyan statue on Main Street, the Maine Discovery Museum, and shows at the Bangor Waterfront Pavilion.
About an hour outside of Bangor, this certified organic farm also offers a variety of
There’s no shortage of nosh nearby, either; recommendations include Bagel
organic dry fruit wines. (Tastings available daily between Memorial Day and Columbus
Central in downtown Bangor for a quick and tasty bite, or drive across the river to
Day and “by chance or appointment” in the winter.)
Brewer to visit Mason’s Brewing Company (“The sweet potato fries are amazing,” Hubbell said) or Humble for a casual dinner. As you drive southeast toward Mount
PHOTO COURTESY OF CATHERINE HILL WINERY
4. CATHERINE HILL WINERY IN CHERRYFIELD
Desert Island, don’t miss Provender Kitchen + Bar in Ellsworth for brunch.
Continue east for about 20 minutes from Shalom
Outdoor enthusiasts will probably want to spend the majority of their time hiking,
Orchard to Catherine Hill Winery, which includes
biking, and camping galore, but those who prefer savoring the quieter side of nature
a selection of barrel-aged red and berry wines for
will still have plenty to do. From adrenaline-filled activities to scenic strolling and
unique and sophisticated flavor. (Season begins
birdwatching, there’s something here for everyone.
in May.)
5. DRAGONFLY FARM & WINERY IN STETSON
2. ACADIA NATIONAL PARK
3. BAR HARBOR Just a short drive outside the park, find a hub of quintessential New England culture
Less than half an hour’s drive northwest from Bangor is Dragonfly Farm & Winery,
in the town of Bar Harbor. Hubbell suggests taking an Oli’s Trolley Tour to see some
where you can also pick up some fresh maple syrup.
famous landmarks around Mount Desert Island, or sail the Atlantic with the Bar
6. ANTHONY LEE’S WINERY IN DEXTER
Harbor Whale Watch Co. Wine lovers can imbibe at Bar Harbor Cellars and grab a bite at the Sweet Pea Cafe. (Season begins in May.) And if pitching a tent isn’t your
Offering scrumptious fruit-based wines like apple-cranberry, blueberry, and pear, this
thing, Hubbell says the posh Asticou Inn in nearby Northeast Harbor (about a 20
winery is located along Route 7, less than 30 minutes from Stetson.
minute drive from Bar Harbor) has a stellar reputation and gorgeous gardens.
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February 28, 2020
THE IMPORTANCE OF ROUTINE
VEHICLE MAINTENANCE COURTESY OF METRO CREATIVE OWNING A CAR is a big responsibility. Drivers who plan to keep their vehicles for the long haul must empha-
•
IMPROVES PERFORMANCE AND EFFICIENCY:
Routine
maintenance
includes
oil
changes,
filter
size maintenance if they want to keep adding miles to
changes and fluid top-offs. Such tasks keep engines
their odometers. In fact, the automotive information site
running smoothly. Ignoring this routine maintenance
CarAdvice says that routine maintenance may be the
can put engines in jeopardy of breaking down and
most important thing drivers can do for their vehicles.
adversely affect vehicle performance, diminishing fuel
A vehicle needs consistent care if it is to run efficiently. Maintenance also reduces the risk of roadside breakdowns and costly repairs. Here's a look at some of
•
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IDENTIFIES SAFETY ISSUES: Routine inspections
and work performed by reputable service stations help
PHOTO: ©ROMASET/ADOBE STOCK
the benefits of staying on top of maintenance.
economy and leading to a sluggish ride.
drivers stay abreast of recalls or issues that can affect the
SAVES MONEY: Even though maintenance costs
money, sticking to a consistent maintenance schedule can save big bucks in the long run. For example, the cost of rotating and aligning tires is considerably less than
safety of the vehicle.
•
MAINTAINS A MAINTENANCE RECORD: When
the time comes to sell the vehicle, having a log of routine
repairing a car after a major blowout and paying for a tow
maintenance indicates to potential buyers that the
and tire replacement.
vehicle was well cared for.
SERVING FAMILIES, FRIENDS, AND NEIGHBORS SINCE 1956
YOU BELONG HERE Up to $250 Cash Back and a 2.00% APR* Rate Reduction! Refinance your auto or recreational vehicle loan from another financial institution with Bangor Federal, meet account requirements, and you’ll receive up to $250 deposited to your checking account! ** *APR=Annual Percentage Rate.**Rate Reduction of 2.00% will be taken off your current financed rate. Lowest auto loan rate offered at 3.25% for up to 60 months = $18.13 per thousand, principal and interest. Lowest recreational vehicle loan offered at 4.75% for up to 60 months = $18.83 per thousand,principal and interest. Offer is subject to change without notice. $200 Cash Back Bonus is given 90 days after the following qualifications are met: open a regular Bangor Federal checkingaccount, direct deposit to the checking account, automatic loan transfers to the new loan(s) from the checking account, e-statement and online banking enrollment, and open/active Visa©debit card. $250 Cash Back Bonus is given after Kasasa Rewards account is opened and meetsall requirements for three consecutive monthly Kasasa qualification cycles, Direct Depositestablished to the checking account, automatic loan transfers to the new loan(s) from thechecking account. Kasasa qualifications include; logging on to Online and/or mobile banking atleast once during each monthly cycle, at least 12 debit card purchases post and settle permonth cycle, and continued e-Statement enrollment. Loans subject to credit qualifications andapproval. Existing Bangor Federal auto and/or recreational loans and checking accounts do notqualify for this offer. Offer valid through April 30, 2020.
339 Hogan Rd, Bangor | 10 Venture Way, Bangor | 6 Dirigo Dr., Brewer 207-947-0374 | bangorfederal.com Federally Insured by NCUA |
February 28, 2020
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DRIVE INTO SPRING
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DRIVERS ED AT BEAL DRIVING ACADEMY BEAL DRIVING ACADEMY is Northeast
Ellsworth High School. The Skowhegan
have the access they need to put their skills
Maine’s best choice for driver’s education
location is currently located at the Skowhegan
to the test in one-on-one driving instruction.
Beal Driving Academy has a schedule to
classes. We bring driver’s education classes
Community Center at 39 Poulin Drive, easily
Most importantly, Beal Driving Academy sets
fit all driver’s ed student and family needs
to you with driver’s ed programs in Bangor,
accessible from Skowhegan High school and
out to use this time and experience to help
including summer driver’s ed and evening
East Millinocket, Ellsworth, Skowhegan, and
close to downtown Skowhegan. Our newest
students become confident drivers.
driver’s education courses. Beal Driving
Pittsfield. Our driver’s training teaches stu-
location is at MCI High School at 295 Main
dents safety and gives them important knowl-
Street in Pittsfield.
of the State of Maine driving expectations.
Academy also offers private driver’s ed classes
DRIVER’S ED COST AND OFFERINGS
and lessons for driver preparation beyond the
edge of Maine roads. Students in our driver’s
The location of our Bangor driving school
Driver’s education courses should be fun,
classroom. Another unique option we offer at
ed classes get exciting hands-on experience
is the ideal spot for getting experience
affordable, and create successful drivers.
our driving academy is driver’s training for
in their training. As a result, students safely
driving in different settings. For instance,
Therefore, the driver’s education cost of our
adults. We are committed to bringing driving
gain confidence behind the wheel.
the calm and quiet neighborhoods of Bangor
program is a value for the low price. Your
instruction to all drivers. Our offerings make
and Hampden or the hustle of downtown
driver’s ed cost will include 30 hours of class
planning for your driver’s education courses
LOCATIONS
Bangor. Students will also have quick access
time and 10 hours of driving time. Students
easy to fit into your life.
We provide our Bangor driver’s education
to the highway in order to have important
will learn about and review motorist
We understand that learning to drive can
training in a safe and convenient location
experience in all driving situations.
expectations for Maine drivers. Our courses
be an exciting and sometimes scary time.
help students develop a solid understanding
Because of this, our driving school supports
of these expectations.
all students in their driver’s ed success. We
at Beal College. In our driving classes,
Beal Driving Academy’s driver’s training
students can engage in learning in a college
helps students apply their knowledge from
setting. Our driving academy is just off of
the classroom to the Maine roads. Likewise,
During your driver’s ed classes you will
make sure that during student driving time,
the I-395 exit and minutes from downtown
this driving experience can give parents and
learn the rules of the road to help you pass
students have one-on-one driving instruction.
Bangor and Hampden. The location of our
guardians some peace of mind.
your learner’s permit test and your driver’s
Additionally, we require that our teen drivers
East Millinocket driving school is along the
In addition to the great location, Beal
license test. We also make sure that the
have parent and guardian involvement in
Penobscot River and ME-157. Our Ellsworth
Driving Academy will pick students up
students are prepared to get their learner’s
their driver’s ed experience. All of this support
location is conveniently located at Mill Mall
at Bangor, John Bapst, Hampden, Brewer,
permit before leaving the program. Above
helps our Bangor driving school be the best
which is directly across the street from
Orono and Hermon area schools. Students
all, students will have a deep understanding
option for your driver’s education needs.
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February 28, 2020
EXPLORE EMCC
EASTERN MAINE Community College is proud to be a resource in the Bangor Region for anyone who is looking for a quality education at the most affordable cost in New England. EMCC offers over 30 degree and certificate programs, a great central location in the heart of Bangor,
ABBY, EMCC STUDENT CLASS OF 2020
affordable housing options, and small class sizes.
“I had gone to a four-year college initially
You are invited to visit EMCC at our
for marine biology and while I was there,
Spring Open House on EMCConnect Day,
realized that that was just not what I wanted
March 25 from 11 a.m.–2:30 p.m. While on
to do. I knew then that I really wanted to
campus, you will be able to choose your
go into the medical field, I just didn’t know
program of interest, join students and
where to start. I had debt from my time at
staff for lunch in their classroom or lab,
that school and it was tough. When I heard
and meet current students, faculty, and
about this one-year Medical Assisting
employers who are always eager to hire
program at EMCC I jumped at the chance to
EMCC grads. There will also be tours, info
come here. I love being in this program and
sessions, and staff on hand to facilitate
hope to be able to go into dermatology after
prospective students who aren’t sure where
I’m done and maybe even go on to nursing.
their interests lie, we are here for you!
I love that classes at EMCC are so hands-on
Visit www.emcc.edu/EMCConnect to register today! Students who come to EMCC are able to explore all higher education has to offer without the high cost associated.
and how helpful everyone in admissions has been in answering every single one of my questions. My instructors are amazing and I’m so happy to be here!”
—ABBY, MEDICAL ASSISTING ’20
Not only are there one and two-year programs that have incredible hiring
Visit our campus located at 354 Hogan
rates after graduation, there are also
Road in Bangor and set up a tour at emcc.
easy transfer options to schools like
edu/tour. Email admissions@emcc.edu or
UMaine and Husson.
call 207.974.4680 with any questions about
By taking the transfer path at EMCC,
how to apply. You can apply online for FREE
you are able to get your general education
at emcc.edu/apply if you are interested in
courses done for less than $100 per credit
summer or fall courses.
hour while exploring other program
Eastern Maine Community College is a
interests. Just listen to what our students
great college and a smart choice. Let us help
have to say!
you get started.
February 28, 2020
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DRIVE INTO SPRING
One Card. One Payment. All Local.
WHEN BUYING A
LEASED VEHICLE MAKES SENSE COURTESY OF METRO CREATIVE CONSUMERS IN THE MARKET for new vehicles must make a number of decisions before getting behind the wheel of a new car. Some may debate whether or not to buy a new or preowned vehicle, while others may wonder if buying or leasing is best for them. People who decide to lease will likely have another decision to make when their leases reach maturity: should I return my car or buy it? Drivers who have never leased a vehicle may not even know that lessees have the option to buy their cars at the end of their lease agreements. The idea of leasing suggests drivers
Transfer your credit card balance to a Bangor Federal Visa Credit Card and enjoy the promotional rate through 2021!
would always be better off turning their vehicles in, but there are situations in which keeping the car can benefit buyers.
• THE BUYOUT FIGURE IS LESS THAN THE MARKET VALUE OF THE VEHICLE: Lessees who don’t drive much might find that their vehicles are worth more at the end of
the lease than the buyout figure indicated on the agreement. That means lessees can buy
• 2.90% Intro APR on Balance Transfers 1 • No annual fee or transfer fee 2 • Local, in-house service
the vehicle for less than its market value. They can then flip the vehicle and reap a profit or simply keep driving the vehicle.
• THE EXCESS MILEAGE PENALTIES ARE STEEP: Drivers also may be better off buying if they significantly exceeded their mileage restrictions. Lease agreements typically
include per-mile penalty fees for every mile drivers go past the mileage limits indicated in their agreements. These fees can quickly add up, but drivers won’t have to pay them if they
• Real-time payments • 24/7 account access through online, mobile, and telephone banking
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choose to buy their vehicles at the end of their leases rather than returning them.
• THE CONDITION OF THE VEHICLE: Drivers who took care of their leased vehicles
and even those who did not may benefit from keeping their cars when their leases reach maturity. Keeping a leased vehicle that’s been well-maintained can save drivers money over the cost of buying new vehicles, as the buyout value on their lease is likely a lot less expensive than the cost of a new car or truck. But keeping vehicles that have enduring considerable wear and tear also may be wise, as leasing companies may charge hefty wearand-tear penalties. Buying a vehicle at the end of a lease may seem unusual. But there are various instances when buying makes more sense than turning the vehicle in.
APR=Annual Percentage Rate. Subject to credit approval. The promotional 2.9% rate is valid on balance transfers completed through 3/31/20. On January 31, 2021, the promotional rate will expire and the rate will revert to 8.90% for Our Best Rate Visa, and 10.90% for Our Best Rewards Visa. Special promotion does not apply to current Bangor Federal loans or credit card balances. 2 8.90% APR for Our Best Rate, 10.90% APR Our Best Rewards, Foreign Transaction Fee 1.00% of each transaction in U.S. dollars, Late Payment Fee up to $25.00. Full Visa credit card promotion and application and solicitation disclosures can be viewed at www.bangorfederal.com/balance-transfer. Promotion expires 3/31/20. 1
339 Hogan Rd, Bangor | 10 Venture Way, Bangor | 6 Dirigo Dr., Brewer 207-947-0374 | bangorfederal.com Federally Insured by NCUA |
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February 28, 2020
GUARANTEED BEST PRICES AT TWIN CITY TIRE SINCE
BEGINNINGS
During your online visit, use our Tire
in 2013, Twin City Tire and Service has
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Twin City Tire BREWER, MAINE twincitytireme.com 609 Wilson St, Brewer • 989-8473 and visit our Express Oil Change Center at 30 Sparks Avenue
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