LA
METRO MAGAZINE AUTUMN 2021
MAINE’S BICENTENNIAL PARADE LA hosts a historic celebration for our state Page 45
+
CITY OF LEWISTON, PART 4 What the future holds
QUODDY FOOTWEAR Keeping it globally local
+ SO MUCH MORE! Grab your copy
Where the locals eat! We’re Maine’s #1Steakhouse for a reason
Try any one of our salads, entrees, sandwiches or burgers.
Shown here: All-American Burger 8 oz. freshly ground Angus Top Sirloin with bacon, American cheese, lettuce, tomato, & red onion with our hand-cut fries.
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Mac’s Grill | 1052 Minot Avenue, Auburn | 207-783-6885 | www.MacsGrill.com
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LA METRO MAGAZINE | AUTUMN 2021
editor’s note PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOSE LEIVA
“You are never too old to set another goal or dream a new dream.” – C.S. Lewis It is with very mixed emotions that I write my last Editor’s Note for LA Metro Magazine (LAMM). I am taking a new path that will take me out of the editor’s chair and into a new venture. I have learned so much in my time here at LAMM that I will carry with me forever. I have met some incredible people, both professionally and personally, because of this job. I have changed my lifestyle because of things I’ve learned in stories we published. I have had opportunities to challenge myself to be a better person and leader. Our team of contributors is dynamite, and I will miss working with each of them. I challenge every reader to really read LAMM and look at these amazing photos closely. You will not find a more professional, more skilled, or kinder team of contributors anywhere you look. And to our CEO/Publisher, Jimbo Marston, you have been a friend long before I took this job. I will always cherish our friendship and what you and your family have meant to me and my family. I will always chuckle at memories of you teasing me about my “pajama bottoms” and BFL (blonde, French, & left-handed) moments. I will always make fun of your golfing passion. Thanks, Chief, from the bottom of my heart. Though I’m moving on, I will always consider LA Metro Magazine and the team here to be my family. I am still around, and I will always promote, frequent, and encourage local businesses. They are the backbone of everything I believe in. Be kind and well, everyone.
TYLA DAVIS Outgoing Editor-in-Chief
We were all sad to see Tyla leave us. She was a true champion for our company and she will be missed. In the meantime, while we search for our next editor, this guy is “back in the (editor’s) saddle.” Going back to its beginnings, LA Metro Magazine was launched in 2016 with me as its editor. While I love this type of work, it makes more sense to hire a dedicated editor which will allow me, as publisher, to sell more advertising, research more story ideas, and network to promote this great magazine. We have heard so many times that this magazine really shines a positive light on all the great things going on within our communities. Honestly, I couldn’t agree more! And to hear that the local hospitals, the Chamber, and others use our magazine as a recruiting tool to attract solid people to great jobs means what we’re doing is working. Having said that, LAMM still needs more community support with more businesses advertising within its pages. If you’re a business owner here in the LA area, please consider supporting this great community resource called LA Metro Magazine. All my best,
Jimbo Marston Back in the (Editor’s) Saddle
LA Metro Magazine is proudly printed in Lewiston, Maine at
8 Lexington Street, Lewiston 4
LA METRO MAGAZINE | AUTUMN 2021
www.penmor.com
c o n t r ib ut o rs Toby hails from the bustling New York City media world, where she promoted live events like pay-per-view boxing, and published album reviews in Creem and Audio magazines. In LA, she coordinates events for First Universalist Church of Auburn, hosting the monthly Pleasant Note Open Mic, and staging their annual “Vagina Monologues” benefit against domestic violence.
TOBY HABER-GIASSON editorial director & writer
A native of Lewiston, Peggy began writing creatively as a child growing up in a FrenchCatholic neighborhood. A graduate of Bowdoin College, she began her career in journalism at PC Week in Boston, where she was the ghostwriter for the industry gossip columnist, Spencer the Cat. She has also worked locally as an English teacher and public relations consultant. A resident of Auburn, she recently finished her first novel.
PEGGY DEBLOIS writer
A construction worker by day as well as a freelance writer, Matt dabbles in diverse genres ranging from medieval history to fantasy. His love for literature and written language began at a young age. Matt has also worked as an audio transcriptionist, a voice-over actor, and copyeditor. Born and raised in Maine, he enjoys exploring the woods with his dogs and growing his own vegetables.
MATT BELIVEAU writer
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Brewster was raised in Waterford, Maine, attended Oxford Hills High School, then graduated from Colby College. He became an English teacher at Oxford Hills Comprehensive High School, where he has remained since 1988. Christmas of 2012, he received his first camera, and quickly developed a love of the lens. Brewster freelances for some Maine newspapers and local magazines. He resides in Hebron, with his wife and two children.
BREWSTER BURNS photographer
On his eighth birthday, David’s favorite aunt gave him a camera. She couldn’t have known that, from that day, photography would grow into a passion, a career, and a ticket to experiences he would otherwise only have dreamed of. Fifty years later, David is a successful filmmaker, photographer, and creative director working for national and local advertising agencies, businesses, and educational and government clients. It was, as things have turned out, the perfect gift.
DAVID FULLER photographer
If you’re an accomplished writer and would like to be part of this region’s premiere lifestyle magazine, please let us know. The sense of community this magazine exudes will make you glad to be part of the LAMM team! Learn more about us at www.LAMetroMagazine.com and then email us at editor@LAMetroMagazine.com
Writers Wanted
contri butors Michael is a freelance writer and musician from Auburn. He graduated from the University of Maine at Presque Isle in 1999 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts. He has submitted stories and articles for various publications, and performs throughout New England as a solo guitarist and bassist. Michael enjoys traveling, hiking, and spending leisure time with family and friends.
MICHAEL KRAPOVICKY writer
A Maine native, Donna has dedicated much of her career to assisting families as they navigate the world of eldercare. Her philosophy is, “Create good by approaching all things with an open mind and a generous, honest heart;” it has served her well, personally and professionally. Writing is her happy place and her family is her heart.
DONNA ROUSSEAU writer
Sara is a “County” transplant enjoying life on the Androscoggin River. Most days she can’t be found, hiding away in the woods or mountains, enjoying the quiet peacefulness of the outdoors. A musician and actress, she enjoys the many diverse cultural opportunities offered in the LA area. She writes, she runs, pats all the dogs, loves beer, and plays the ukulele...badly.
SARA POULIN writer
Jose started his photography career while in the Air Force during Vietnam. He moved to Maine in the late 1980s and retired from the Sun Journal a few years ago. He now works as a freelance photographer and exhibits his art locally. Jose lives in Lewiston, Maine, with his wife, Linda. Together they have six adult children, and four grandchildren who are a source of photographic inspiration.
JOSE LEIVA photographer
A Pennsylvania native, Jillian moved to Maine from Dallas, Texas with her husband and two toddler daughters in August of 2020. Her lifelong love of the written word began with writing short stories and poems at the age of six, eventually leading to the creation of her own company, EleGrant Writing Services. Jillian is a Business Development Specialist for Androscoggin Home Healthcare + Hospice by day and enjoys live music, books, and creative writing.
JILLIAN NETHERLAND writer
Nicole can’t remember a time when she did not have a camera in her hands. Her passion for photography started when she was little, working with her uncle who ran his own studio. She graduated in 2015 with a degree in photography and digital workflow. Shortly afterwards, she opened her own portrait studio, Creativeones Photography. Her passion is to show the beauty that is within everyone. She is constantly learning new and inventive ways to capture moments that will last a lifetime.
NICOLE RAND photographer
LA METRO MAGAZINE digital edition @ LAMetroMagazine.com
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CORE
Our
Crew PUBLISHER & CEO Jim Marston jim@LAMetroMagazine.com
ADVERTISING SALES Ryan Jones Jim Marston Steve Simard
Jim Marston Publisher & CEO
Jim@LAMetroMagazine.com
Steve Simard Sales
Steve@LAMetroMagazine.com
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Toby Haber-Giasson
WRITERS Matt Beliveau Peggy DeBlois Toby Haber-Giasson Michael Krapovicky Jillian Netherland Sara Poulin Donna Rousseau
PROOFREADERS Keith Davis Kayla Marston
PHOTOGRAPHY Brewster Burns David Fuller Jose Leiva Nicole Rand
Stephanie Arsenault Bookkeeper
billing@LAMetroMagazine.com
COVER
Street party following the Maine Bicentennial Parade on Lewiston’s Lisbon Street. Photographer: Brewster Burns LA Metro Magazine is published four times each year by LA Metro Magazine, LLC Editorial and subscription info: Call 207-783-7039 email: info@LAMetroMagazine.com 9 Grove Street, Auburn, ME 04210
Ryan Jones Sales
ryan.jones@LAMetroMagazine.com
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LA METRO MAGAZINE | AUTUMN 2021
Opinions expressed in articles or advertisements, unless otherwise noted, do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher or staff. Every effort has been made to ensure that all information presented in this issue is accurate, and neither LA Metro Magazine nor any of its staff are responsible for omissions or information that has been misrepresented to the magazine. No establishment is ever covered in this magazine because it has advertised, and no payment ever influences our stories and reviews. Copyright ©2021 LA Metro Magazine, LLC. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopy, recording, or any information storage and retrieval system, without permission, in writing, from the publisher. Printed in Lewiston, ME, USA.
content volume six | issue four | autumn 2021
cover story
45
features
Maine’s Bicentennial Parade
quick reads
23
Quoddy Footwear
12
Health & Wellness: A Pound of Cure
36
18
Eats: Cyndi’s Dockside
41
30
Sound Check: The Veggies
53
56
City of Lewiston: Part 4
Roebucks Angus
Misfits Rehab Social Hour: The Tasting Room at Vista of Maine
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PROMOTION
FACES of
LA
Written by Jillian Netherland Photography by Jose Leiva
THE FACES OF
CHANDLER FUNERAL HOMES & CREMATION SERVICES Honoring Family Traditions Business office: 51 Main Street, South Paris (207) 743-2561 • chandlerfunerals.com
L to R: Marcus Talarico, Marc Chandler, Dana Chandler & Gerry Burpee
Dana Chandler and son, Marc, have a track record of purchasing well-established funeral homes with great reputations in their communities. Dana Chandler attributes their success in the industry to solely seeking local, family-owned businesses.
Community values
Over the last 28 years, the Chandlers have bought eight family-owned and-operated funeral homes in Mechanic Falls, Oxford, South Paris, Rumford, Bridgton, Fryeburg, Bethel, and most recently, Lewiston.
Keeping the original name is a tradition the Chandlers respect and honor. Hometown ideals like that are in part what allowed them to purchase of their newest location. Albert & Burpee Funeral Home, at 253 Pine Street in Lewiston, will keep the name and history locals both respect and recognize. Gerry Burpee, previous owner and current director, received several offers when he announced his plans to sell, but knew early on that he wanted to go with Chandler. While visiting the Chandler website Burpee noticed that all prices were listed – something which Albert & Burpee also provides, but is incredibly rare in the industry. “It was important to me for the business to stay local with community values. It was obvious to me that they care about transparency and working with the families we serve.”
Making it personal
While traditional services in the industry have remained the same over the decades, other aspects of the funeral home business have changed – most notably, the ability to personalize most anything, from caskets to urns, to register books, memorial cards, as well as honoring special family requests, and creating videos. “Customization allows us to build the celebration the families have in mind,” says Marc Chandler, who handles all laser engraving in-house, adding, “Even if it’s something we haven’t done, we’ll find a way to make it happen.”
Working together
Although each Chandler Funeral Home is in a different location, they share one goal, notes Chandler: “If the family is happy, that’s all that matters.”
A Pound of Cure Written by Donna Rousseau | Photography by David Fuller
Owners Pam Edgecomb & Bob Brainerd
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L
ike the old adage that says, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,” Central Maine Conditioning Clinic is dedicated to the health and wellness of the community and to their individual and corporate clientele. Their multidisciplinary team is focused on prevention, injury/disease management, wellness, and alternative interventions.
LA METRO MAGAZINE digital edition @ LAMetroMagazine.com
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Eric Morrow works with Melissa Johnson to rehabilitate her knee after surgery. Central Maine Conditioning Clinic (CM) is dedicated to keeping people well in body, mind, and spirit. CM helps employers and individuals enjoy the rewards of leading healthier lives. Its stated mission is “Changing the health and well-being of our community one person at a time, through assessment, education, program development, and self-responsibility.” CM has delivered on this promise in many venues and now in a new facility all their own.
Alternative evolution Bob and Jayne Brainerd started CM in 1991, focusing on preventative sports medicine and athletic training. They also served individuals with chronic injuries unresolved by standard methods. Pam Edgecomb, former manager of outpatient therapy at Central Maine Health, joined the team in 2002 as a health coach, eventually taking over CM’s wellness component and becoming a partner. “Folks were looking for an alternative approach to getting better,” explains Bob Brainerd. “We provided functional medicine and a holistic approach to being well.”
Morrow’s history with Bob Brainerd began when he received rehab from him as a high school athlete. Interested in a helping profession like Brainerd’s, Morrow earned his B.S. in athletic training, did his six-month internship with CM and was hired after passing his national exam and certification in athletic training. Today, he serves as lead clinical manager. Floyd has a 15-year history with CM. He is the lead occupational manager, installing processes to reduce on-site injuries and health surveillance.
In the workplace Corporate health begins with the safety and well-being of employees. Bob Brainerd draws upon his background in performing risk stratifications to explore ways to decrease health insurance and workers’ compensation costs. CM identifies risks of injury and illness before they occur and aids in their management, should they occur. Today, CM has 40 corporate clients, including Proctor & Gamble and Dingley Press, with on-site staff at 26 companies.
Multidisciplinary team Today the team features professionals from many disciplines, all of whom have left traditional medicine for the opportunity to promote health and wellness in a new way. Over the years, CM’s services have expanded to include injury and disease prevention, physical rehabilitation, and corporate health and wellness. The staff consists of nurse advocates and phlebotomists, health coaches, athletic and personal trainers, yoga instructors, an osteopath, and a massage therapist, all delivering alternative forms of rehabilitation, and behavioral therapy. CM’s next generation will carry on its unique business philosophy. Two younger staff members, Eric Morrow and Jon Floyd, have already become shareholders in the company.
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Jon Floyd keeps a watchful eye as Conrad Bellfleur is tested for occupational fitness to onboard for his new job.
Owner Bob Brainerd on the telephone with a client
Services include work assessments, diagnostic testing, therapeutic treatment, ergonomics, injury evaluation, and rehabilitation. Wellness education programs are also available. With a wide scope of professional practice, CM’s staff collaborate with primary care physicians and specialists, tapping into trusted community resources to provide the most comprehensive care for employees.
Wellness finds a home “For years, we were primarily on-site at the companies we served,” explains Brainerd. But in 2021, he and Jayne decided the time was right to make a permanent home in which to grow CM’s future. The Health First Community Wellness Center, located at 21 Millett Drive in Auburn, hosts both CM and its newest wellness venture, Health First, offering subcontracted direct primary care services under the guidance of Bill Legere, nurse practitioner of Hope Healing and Wellness LLC.
Dr. Drexel Gordon, DO, in his office
Ripple effect
Health First model Health First is a unique model focusing on prevention and selfcare. The approach is holistic, incorporating conventional and complementary medicine. Membership provides two options: direct primary services alone or coupled with an integrated wellness pass. The pass can be used to access services including group exercise, osteopathic manipulation, dry needling, massage therapy, structural integration, health coaching, and personal and athletic training. Direct primary care includes annual physicals, labs, and phlebotomy, as well as timely visits for acute illness or injury. NP Legere will limit his clientele so that he can develop a personal relationship with his patients while delivering affordable and accessible care with the integrated team, following best practice. The hope is that the program’s affordability will encourage people to reach out for medical support sooner rather than waiting. Ongoing communication between Health First and all professionals involved in a client’s wellness program, including outside specialists, is key to achieving goals.
For 35 years, Brainerd, his partners, and staff have been throwing pebbles into the proverbial wellness pool with far-reaching ripples. For instance, Brainerd has long led the Moving ME Forward Running Club in Auburn and his clinic is the proprietary sponsor for the Lake Auburn Half Marathon. This event, in turn, raises money to support wellness programs throughout the community by way of financial aid, internships, mentorships, and volunteer services. The marathon also helps fund CM’s nonprofit,
Manuel Santiago receives massage therapy from Kaitlin Crockett. LA METRO MAGAZINE digital edition @ LAMetroMagazine.com
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Mission-committed, CM also manages and staffs Central Maine Community College’s Mustang Fitness Center. Their personal and athletic trainers and health coaches work alongside workstudy students currently enrolled in the Physical Fitness Specialist program.
From illness to wellness “When the ‘I’ in illness is replaced by a ‘we,’ you get wellness,” confirms Brainerd. At Central Maine Conditioning Clinic, there are many roads to wellness. They are ready to map the trips and support clients as they journey to their wellness destinations. Central Maine Conditioning Clinic 21 Millett Drive, Auburn • www.cmcc1.com
Santiago mans the front desk Moving ME Forward (MMF), a foundation providing mentors or funding for health and fitness initiatives within Maine communities. In 2014, CM formed a partnership with Central Maine Community College, designing two degree programs in exercise science through CM and MMF. “We wanted to develop programs to inspire individuals to pursue careers in health and fitness,” Brainerd says, “and stay here, giving back, thereby changing the culture in our community.” He continues, “Students can begin their education at the college. Then we use local businesses to serve as mentors. We provide shadowing opportunities so students can see if their chosen fields are the right fit.” The program currently has three graduates working in the disciplines of occupational surveillance, personal training, and group exercise.
Phlebotomist Chip Boehm draws blood for lab work
Relationships are Key Establishing a relationship with a primary care provider is one of the smartest things you can do to help ensure your long-term health. Through regular primary care visits, you can keep up to date on your preventive care, better manage chronic conditions, and identify potential problems before they can slow you down. Our Primary Care offices are conveniently located in Lewiston, Auburn, and Poland. WELCOMING NEW PATIENTS
Ready to get started? Call us at 207.777.8899 StMarysMaine.com/PrimaryCare
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LA METRO MAGAZINE | AUTUMN 2021
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Stress Free
Zone Written by Peggy L. DeBlois | Photography by Jose Leiva
L
ooking to take a short drive out of town for some good food and drink? Set your sights on Route 26 in Poland and discover Cyndi’s Dockside. You can get great lobster without taking a trip to the coast.
Cyndi’s Dockside is a casual dining experience on the shore of Middle Range Pond with both indoor and outdoor seating and beautiful lake views. Cyndi’s Dockside is part of the Poland Spring Resort, along with other eateries – the Garden Snack Bar, Rick’s Pub, and Mel’s Hilltop Restaurant – but it holds a special place in owner Cyndi Robbins’ heart. LA METRO MAGAZINE digital edition @ LAMetroMagazine.com
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Lobster is the draw “The first thing we did with the property was buy a lobster tank and build the pavilion,” says Robbins. The concept of lobster “in the rough” meant Cyndi’s Dockside was able to open the same year the property was purchased. The original menu consisted of five items, plus beer and wine. With long lines three days into the venture, Robbins realized she needed to add waitress service. Not long after that, she got a full liquor license. “Mel’s idea really exploded,” says Robbins. She attributes the success of the restaurant to the easy access on Route 26, the beautiful water views and, of course, the good food and drink. The primary order remains lobster in all its forms (clear meat lobster rolls, lobster salad subs, lobster dinners), with the haddock specialties a close second. According to Robbins, in the month of July alone, they sell 400 clear meat lobster rolls and 350 lobster salad subs. Cyndi’s Dockside is also known for its friendly and cozy bar, serving local craft beers, a full wine list, and cocktails from the classic Cosmo to the summer Blueberry Lemonade.
Mel and Cyndi Robbins
History of hospitality The Cyndi’s Dockside property is the original location of the Poland Spring Hotel’s ice-house and played host to many of the vintage inn’s lake activities in both summer and winter for decades. When Cyndi Robbins first came to work at the then-named Inn at Poland Spring in 1971 as a waitress, the property was privately owned and went through a series of owners during her tenure at the Inn. In 1972, Mel Robbins had also joined the staff. Three years later, in 1975, Cyndi and Mel married. They bought the Inn in 1982 and eventually renamed it the Poland Spring Resort.
In the summer, visitors to Cyndi’s Dockside are likely to see children wading in the shallow stretch of sandy beach, dogs alongside picnic tables with their families, and local boaters pulling in and out of the dock. In the cold winter months, most of the customers are inside enjoying the fireplace and large windows overlooking the lake. During the pandemic, the restaurant kept their outside tables open to accommodate customers and will do so again this year, as needed.
Cyndi and Mel Robbins spent their lives restoring and reinvigorating the Poland Spring Resort, which now includes lodging, a Donald Ross designed golf course, tennis courts, mini golf course, driving range, disc golf, and many other activities and event spaces. In 2005, they had the opportunity to purchase the Campbell House, a seven-bedroom cottage that was also part of the original Poland Spring Hotel. The only missing piece from the original full property was the lakeside ice-house location. When Mel became ill, he and Cyndi were living near the beach property and he kept wondering why they didn’t own it. Mel believed it would be a perfect spot to offer lobster “in the rough,” where customers order lobster from a takeout window and eat at a picnic table. “I agreed that Mel’s idea was awesome,” recounts Robbins with a laugh, “but I was pretty busy running the resort by myself and taking care of him.” Literally days after Mel passed away, the former owner of the lakeside property approached her with a deal she could not refuse. Cyndi made Mel’s dream of owning the property official in 2008.
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Cyndi Robbins with a lobster dinner
Spencer Cramp, Kevin Cramp & Haley True dine on the outside deck at Cyndi’s Dockside.
Maine’s great outdoors The obvious draw, aside from the food, to Cyndi’s Dockside is the waterfront. “Lots of people know Lower Range Pond for the state park,” says Robbins. “We are on Middle Range, which connects to Upper Range, giving us miles and miles of beautiful landscape and water.” Robbins says Middle Range offers great fishing and ice fishing. Families can come to Cyndi’s Dockside and enjoy the outdoors as well as the good food. According to Adam Theriault, a regular customer from nearby Minot, the high quality food and reasonable prices are a bonus to Cyndi’s Dockside.
Robbins says the customer traffic is steady all year, with tourists making up about 80% of the customer base in the summer. Local customers flip the percentage to 80% in the winter months, with tourists making Cyndi’s Dockside a stop on their way to the Oxford Casino or Sunday River Resort. Whether it’s a warm day by the lake or a cold evening by the fire, Cyndi’s Dockside is a stress-free zone. “We keep it simple and friendly,” says Robbins, “just a great place to come and relax.” Cyndi’s Dockside 723 Maine Street, Poland • www.dockside.me
“We love the food, and eating outside by the lake or on the deck is fantastic,” says Theriault. “The service has always been great and it’s nothing but enjoyable and relaxing when we go.” In the warmer months, The Boathouse at Cyndi’s Dockside offers craft rentals of all sorts, including kayaks, paddle boats, canoes, and aluminum motorboats. In the winter, many people come for a bite after a day of ice fishing, or from the adjacent snowmobile, cross-country ski, and snowshoe trails that are maintained by the Poland Spring Resort, the Poland Spring Brand water company, and the Poland Snowmobile Club. Trail access is free and open to the public.
Come and relax Because of the variety of outdoor activities in proximity to Cyndi’s Dockside, Robbins says people arrive by car, boat, snowmobile, ski, and air. “Pontoon planes love to land here at our dock,” Robbins shares. “They come from all over, including far northern Maine and Massachusetts.”
Shown: Fried Clam and Seared Scallop dinners paired with Baxter Togo Lager
Poland Spring Resort General Manager Mark Bosse & Cyndi’s Dockside Manager Dan Bouttenot LA METRO MAGAZINE digital edition @ LAMetroMagazine.com
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217 Turner St. Auburn, ME 04210 207-783-8545 70 Horton St. Lewiston, ME 04240 207-784-4584
Moccasin Heritage Written by Michael Krapovicky | Photography by Jose Leiva
Q
uoddy Footwear Inc. upholds the local legacy of quality shoemaking. Made right in Lewiston, Quoddy creates footwear and other leather products with techniques from the zenith of Maine’s shoe industry in the 1920s. Today, when shoemaking largely depends on overseas manufacturing and automated processes, Quoddy shoes are assembled by hand by artisans dedicated to creating a product that is world-renowned for comfort, durability, and style. Quoddy sells its shoes through outlets such as L.L.Bean and J.Crew. Their profits have remained steady at nearly $2 million per annum, from their home base in Lewiston. “Vogue and GQ are familiar with us,” says co-owner Kevin Shorey, “but the average person isn’t as well aware of our name, and what we stand for.” Shorey wants more Mainers to know about Quoddy.
Tradition of quality The moccasin has been the staple of the Quoddy line since its first forays into shoemaking. To some, moccasins are thought of as indoor apparel. “When people hear the word ‘moccasin’, they immediately think of a slipper, but it is really a way of constructing shoes,” explains Shorey. “The essence of a moccasin is that the leather wraps around your entire foot, with formfitting comfort.”
tasks required for making a complete shoe. Inspection for quality is done throughout the process, and any employee can reject a shoe at any point. “The biggest thing that has changed in the industry is the sales and marketing is mostly online,” says Kirsten. “You can go on our site and choose your favorite styles and colors: you can build your own shoe.”
Quoddy history
All Quoddy products are durable. While most of their competitors use cardboard soles as a cost-cutting measure, Quoddy shoes use high-quality leather. And they’re sustainable, since a leather-bottomed shoe can be resoled.
Quoddy began as a shoemaking entity in 1947, instituted by Anne and Jack Spiegel. The Massachusetts couple came to Falmouth, Maine, to honeymoon and loved it. They set out to build their distribution business, Quoddy Moccasins, here.
Owners Kevin and Kirsten Shorey believe that their long-lasting footwear is well-suited for thrifty Maine shoppers. Though some of their pricier options are close to $400, shoes that last longer are a better value over time, and justify the expense.
Current owners Kevin and Kirsten Shorey hold a great deal of respect for their predecessors, and are proud to relate the early history of Quoddy to tourists who visit the Lewiston facility from around the world. “The Spiegels built up Quoddy Moccasins from nothing and prospered here in Maine,” says Kevin. “After World War II, industry was booming - at one time, Quoddy had over 1,000 employees and 30 retail stores.” The Spiegels were extensively philanthropic, but made many donations anonymously, without fanfare. They gave financial support to a number of community organizations, and gifted large parcels of land for the preservation of Maine forests. When the Spiegels were ready to retire, they sold the brand to R.G. Barry Brands, who later sold the rights to Wolverine Worldwide. The Shoreys were able to purchase the name “Quoddy” inexpensively, after Wolverine allowed their ownership of the brand to lapse.
Maine roots Kevin Shorey has familial roots in the footwear industry. “Harry Smith Shorey, my great-grandfather, was a hand-sewer, working for many companies such as L.L.Bean,” says Kevin. “In Burlington, Maine, there is a museum that has all his tools.” Owners Kirsten & Kevin Shorey
“Why buy 10 pairs of shoes over 20 years,” asks Kevin, “when you can just buy one pair of Quoddy shoes?”
Traditional methods Lewiston-based Quoddy produced approximately 14,000 pairs of shoes in 2020. Methods differ little from shoe shops that predated modern advances like electricity and computers. Leather, needle, thread, and a few basic implements are the tools of their trade. “Our process of making shoes has changed little since the 1920s,” says Kevin. “What you see in our factory is a throwback in time.” Rather than having workers perform one step in an assembly line, each employee at Quoddy performs nearly all the specific 24
LA METRO MAGAZINE | AUTUMN 2021
Kevin’s grandparents were shoemakers in the Washington County area as well. “Both my grandfather and grandmother were hand sewers, working at home to save up to buy their store, Shorey’s Market, in Lincoln,” Kevin relates. “It wasn’t until later in my life, as I got into the creation of shoes for myself, that I discovered how deeply shoemaking had shaped my family’s history.” Kevin Shorey attended Columbia University in New York as a history major. While employed at the Chicago Tribune as a print salesman, he met his future wife, Kirsten. A graduate of Northwestern University, she was working as a print assistant when they met. The couple moved east and, like the Spiegels, the Shoreys were enamored with the Maine lifestyle, frequently visiting Kevin’s family there. When they had children, they purchased a house in Calais where they would summer, while working in print media in New York and Maryland. Kevin’s grandfather, Colie Morrison, suggested the family stop commuting and purchase his store, The Quoddy Wigwam, near Passamaquoddy Bay. Quoddy Wigwam was a gift shop that sold
By Michael Krapovicky | Photography by Jose Leiva | Quoddy Footwear
Dan Moody hand sewing moccasins Native American style moccasins, as well as Passamaquoddy baskets and other goods. The couple bought the store in 1995 and became full-time Maine residents. The Wigwam garnered 40% of its income from the sale of Maine-made moccasins. When Quoddy shoes became unavailable, most were provided to them by a man named Thomas Kennedy. When he fell ill, the Shoreys were unable to find a reliable supplier, so they decided they would attempt to craft their own shoes. They created a shoemaking shop in their barn with Kennedy’s equipment. “If we couldn’t find good Maine-made shoes, we were going to make them ourselves,” asserts Kirsten, whose mother had taught her to sew at a young age. LA METRO MAGAZINE digital edition @ LAMetroMagazine.com
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Expansion Trained by Kennedy, the Shoreys sold their handcrafted shoes at The Quoddy Wigwam. They set out to advertise their wares on weekends at trade shows and craft fairs like the American Folk Festival and the Common Ground Fair, while operating the store during the week.
Kevin Wade and Moe Cote at Pamco Shoe Machinery Co. helped to move the Shorey’s equipment, install it at the Lewiston building, and repair the machinery as necessary. “Most of our machines are over 100 years old. Nothing here is computerized except for a couple of sole stitchers and that is by design.” says Kirsten. “If something breaks, we can fix it ourselves or send it to Pamco.”
“We were proper ‘carnies,’” jokes Kevin. One customer that really convinced the Shoreys to grow their business was Yuki Matsuda, a connoisseur of American-style footwear out of Redondo Beach, California. Matsuda gave them an opportunity to produce shoes under the Yuketen brand. “We made shoes for him, trying new things we hadn’t done before,” says Kirsten. “Out of necessity, we bought a property in Perry adjacent to our store, and set up an expanded shoe-making factory.” In 2008, the Shoreys met John Andreliunas - formerly with Bauer Hockey, a subsidiary of Nike. They welcomed him to invest in the company and serve as president. Andreliunas promulgated the Quoddy brand. His marketing savvy garnered them increased sales and, along with that, some growing pains.
Heritage As Quoddy Footwear grew, the Shoreys and Andreliunas found their freight costs becoming prohibitive, and had challenges finding the skilled workers they needed in Perry. In 2009, The Shoreys moved their manufacturing facility to the Pepperell Building in Lewiston, which once housed shoe giant Cole Haan.
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“Theirs is the stitching and handsewing thread that we sew all our shoes with,” affirms Kirsten. “We will always be making shoes in Maine, using top-quality materials,” says Kevin. “We are insistent on that.”
Design Plant manager Danny Maillette is also the head sewer and creates designs for Quoddy Footwear, employed by Quoddy since 2010. His father, a hand sewer, instructed him and his brothers in the craft of shoemaking. Maillette’s wife, Patti, is currently a machine stitcher for Quoddy. Patti’s father, Freeman Condon, worked for Quoddy into his 80s and Patti’s mother, Carol Lee Condon, worked from home as a hand-sewer, as well. The experience craftspeople such as the Maillettes bring lends a rustic authenticity to the Quoddy brand. “Hand sewing is the same since the ‘20s,” says Maillette. “The way I do my designs is by hand and eye, not with CAD software as many in our industry use.”
“It made perfect sense to come here,” Kevin explains. “Lewiston was one of the largest producers of shoes in the world at one time, and there are still families of shoemakers that live here, a result of the French-Canadian migration here in the shoe industry’s heyday.” The Shoreys tapped into the experience of the generations that plied their trade making shoes here in LA. Folks like Renee Robitaille, director of operations, who were part of the heritage of local shoemakers, became integral to Quoddy’s dayto-day business.
The Shoreys also partner with Maine Thread Company, their neighbor in the Pepperell Mill Complex, giving them easy access to some of their basic raw materials.
Plant Manager Danny Maillette
LA METRO MAGAZINE | AUTUMN 2021
By Michael Krapovicky | Photography by Jose Leiva | Quoddy Footwear
Tools of the trade Maillette comes up with new seasonal shoe designs based on an aesthetic of functionality, comfort, and elegance that satisfies market demand. But many are traditional styles from out of the Quoddy catalogs, dating as far back as the 1950s and ‘60s.
Growing smarter
“Danny Maillette is really the daVinci of shoes,” Kirsten claims. “He’s a craftsman and an artist.”
“During the pandemic we didn’t skip a beat - we added five employees,” says Kirsten. “We just added sales staff in California and here on the East Coast.”
The time and care Maillette and the Quoddy crew put into the creation of these tailor-made articles results in the rugged quality Quoddy footwear is known for. “There’s a crafted history in what our customers are wearing,” avows Maillette. “If you take your time, and take pride in your work, it becomes art.”
Quoddy Footwear is currently in growth mode, according to the Shoreys.
When Andreliunas left the company in 2019, the Shoreys hired two managing partners. Charles Liberge was formerly the president of Jones and Vining, and Paul Healey was from Nike and Bauer Hockey. Rise Global Partners provided industry contacts, new suppliers of shoe components, and vast experience in the shoe industry to Quoddy Footwear.
Michael Fisher chooses the leather to cut. LA METRO MAGAZINE digital edition @ LAMetroMagazine.com
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Skip Rines stitching soles
Paul Gemme hand sewing
“Those guys have really done a phenomenal job bringing us to the forefront of the industry, as well as revamping our branding – our website and social media presence,” says Kevin. “We are looking to have 40-50 employees when our business plan is fully implemented.” David Spiegel, grandson of the former owners, joined Quoddy’s board of directors in 2021. The Shoreys are thrilled to have a renewed association with the Spiegel family. “David brings financial investment, marketing experience, and a youthful outlook on the business,” Kirsten says. “We are looking forward to his contributions.”
Gerard Bechard hand sewing
try. All facets of the shoemaking profession will be taught, from hand sewing and leather work, to customer service and shipping, with actual Quoddy employees teaching right on the Pepperell site. “Most folks come to the industry through family, and we need people to backfill as our workers leave and retire,” says Kevin. “Hopefully with Quoddy U, we’ll be able to attract folks to the industry who might be wary of college debt, or could develop an interest in the shoemaking trade – a trade good for a lifetime!” Quoddy Footwear relies on tradespeople and considers them the heart of their endeavors.
Investment in the future
“Their talent and dedication,” says Shorey, “is world-class.”
Seeking to grow their business into the foreseeable future, Quoddy looks to add talented individuals to work with their seasoned craftspeople. Currently under development is “Quoddy U,” a trade school for people who want to enter the shoemaking indus-
Quoddy Footwear 550 Lisbon Street, Lewiston • www.quoddy.com
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The Veggies Written by Michael Krapovicky | Photography by Brewster Burns
Don Hebert 30
LA METRO MAGAZINE | AUTUMN 2021
A
Veggies show is a musical happening in a festive, sometimes bacchanalian atmosphere, garnering the band a reputation as a purveyor of good times.
Led by Don Hebert, a rotating cast of stellar musicians has performed under the Veggies moniker, in the taverns and restaurants of Central Maine, as well as for private events. After a COVID hiatus, The Veggies are ready to rock crowds here in Lewiston Auburn in 2021 with a renewed fervor.
LA METRO MAGAZINE digital edition @ LAMetroMagazine.com
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The Veggies entertain the crowd
Crowdpleasers The Veggies have become a musical institution over their 17 years. Their set list ranges from new country to screaming heavy metal, with a focus on danceability and familiarity. Their secret is band leader Don Hebert’s amazing rapport with the audience, making folks feel like they’re part of the show at a gig. The primary goal of veteran LA band The Veggies is to fit their performances to the occasion, whether it be at a bar, restaurant, or private party. “The strength of The Veggies is we react according to the crowd,” says Hebert. “We can tone it down for a wedding or formal engagement, but if the party is getting wild, we will get wild as well.” 32
LA METRO MAGAZINE | AUTUMN 2021
Hebert rarely anchors himself onstage, preferring to walk out into the crowd, dancing with patrons. He uses a wireless microphone and is not shy with sharing vocal duties with members of the audience. LA patrons who have been missing live music after the COVID-19 restrictions took notice when Hebert returned to performing at the end of July. “When we played at the 1800 Club, the place was packed,” says Hebert. “Everyone was so high-energy and excited.”
Fruit of Veggies’ labor One could rightly say The Veggies was born in the produce section of Shaws in 2006. Produce Manager Don Hebert was 40 years old when he began learning the guitar, inspired by local
bands such as Dirty McCurdy. Hebert enlisted his co-workers Roland Forgues and Steve Mehalcik as his rhythm section. They added John Rabassa, guitarist and saxophonist, and started rehearsing at Hebert’s house Tuesday nights. “No one else wanted to sing,” Hebert admits. ”I became the singer by default.” When contemplating a name for the project, bassist Mehalcik suggested “Veggies By Day,” reflecting their shared vocation. The band played their first gig at Fast Breaks on a Tuesday night, mere months later. A product of both hard work and Hebert’s charisma, the fledgling band developed a following, and began performing regularly at places such as the Irish Twins Pub in Lewiston, and Holly’s Own Deli in Auburn. Over time, “Veggies By Day” was abbreviated to simply “The Veggies.”
McLovin’ Sadly, Roland Forgues, original drummer and founding member of Veggies by Day, passed away of a heart attack in late 2007. “Don was funny,” recalls Ray Tardiff, a seasoned drummer who had taken note of the band, “and I felt he needed someone to banter back-and-forth with onstage.” Tardiff is that someone - he soon joined The Veggies, providing Hebert a comrade and foil for his antics. He twirls and tosses his drumsticks, and takes good-natured jabs at the audience and his band-mates.
“Ray is a cartoon character come to life,” asserts Hebert. “He got the name McLovin’ for the way people just fell in love with him.” But Tardiff has musical chops; he has played since the Beatles first broke in America. “My first garage band was with Denny Breau,” confides Tardiff, who also played with the bands Saki and Axis.
Evolving lineup The Veggies lineup has evolved over the years, with countless musicians gracing the stages with Hebert - some merely for one song, others remaining full-time members for years. A notable example is Anna Hunnewell, a frequent attendee of Veggies shows, with an open invite to sing with them. She became a fulltime member in 2013. “My sister and I used to put on shows as kids, singing into hairbrushes,” laughs Hunnewell. “I never thought I’d be in a band, and then it just happened!” The Veggies encouraged Hunnewell’s development of her natural talent. “They make me sing songs I think I can’t do,” says Hunnewell. “Don taught me a lot - to not be afraid of challenges, and to interact with the crowd.”
New axemen When lead guitarist Rabassa left for Florida in 2016, the Veggies added powerhouse Tom Maynard to replace him. The Veggies salute Maynard, who retired from performing in 2019 and passed away unexpectedly in August 2021. “Tom was a true gentleman,” recalls Hebert. “He had a huge heart and was always willing to go out of his way to help people. Music was in his soul and he was happiest when he was playing his guitar. We will miss him.” The band had an extensive search for a lead guitarist. “I saw The Veggies were looking for a guitarist,” says Shawn Callahan, who had become familiar with the band from investigating the local LA music scene. “I’d seen Don play acoustic, and the band a few times, and it just looked fun - where you know every night will be something different.” Dave Perlman took over from Mehalcik on bass in 2014. On Perlman’s departure in 2018, the band found Jim Tetzlaf, who 34
LA METRO MAGAZINE | AUTUMN 2021
had relocated to Maine from Las Vegas. Tetzlaf left The Veggies in 2020, while entertainment was halted due to the pandemic. When gigs resumed, Moe McKenna joined The Veggies as a permanent member. McKenna is a veteran LA bassist who has played in acts like Katfish, Zealous Bellus, and OCD. McKenna remembers seeing the band for the first time years prior at local watering hole La Cage. “They all looked like they were having fun,” says McKenna. “The crowd warmed up to them immediately.” His musical prowess and offbeat sense of humor made him a natural choice to join The Veggies. “The latest lineup, with Moe and Shawn, is the best lineup the Veggies has ever had, both musically and for the way our personalities mesh,” confirms Hebert. “Bands tend to have a lot of conflict, but we all love each other.”
Bromance Family commitments and pandemic uncertainty made the decision to continue a difficult one. “When the pandemic was on, and we weren’t able to get together, it was tough to think about continuing on,” confides Tardiff. “I would have probably stopped playing when COVID-19 hit,” Hebert muses. “But then I thought, ‘When will I see Ray again?’” There will be more music and more good times ahead for The Veggies. “We’re going to keep doing this as long as we are having fun and putting out somewhat of a quality product,” Hebert concludes. “It’s been a good ride so far.” The Veggies https://www.facebook.com/The-Veggies-111343635554586
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A cut above the rest Written by Jillian Netherland | Photography by Jose Leiva
Parker Mason, Adalyn Walker & Thomas Walker take a break from their chores. 36 LA METRO MAGAZINE | AUTUMN 2021
J
ust off scenic Route 4 in Turner sits the Roebuck farm where the Angus roam. Angus, a breed of hornless beef cattle, are known for their smooth, black coats and juicy, tender meat. Although Roebucks Angus customers have enjoyed this local beef delicacy since 2015, this labor of love dates back much farther for owners Jay and Sue Roebuck.
opted to keep these remaining cattle on their farm, which would lead to the next chapter in their farming story. After dabbling in sales of beef sides and whole steers, the idea to devote efforts to full-time selling took form. Sue Roebuck gave this idea the fuel it needed to become a reality. She was already familiar with sales from running her upholstery business from their home on the farm. Not only did the retail business take off, it turned out to be something the Roebucks truly enjoyed; thus, Roebucks Angus was born.
Home on the range Sue Roebuck handles all meat orders and sales, after spending the morning helping Jay in the fields. Weekday hours are noon until 6 daily, when Sue helps customers select cuts and place orders. “The greatest assets I have are Sue, our kids, and our grandkids,” says Jay, who begins each day feeding the cattle and maintaining the pastures. While there is more than enough work to be completed on a daily basis, the Roebucks do not have employees on their farm, making it a true family run business. Jay Roebuck
Born to raise Working with cattle has been a part of Jay Roebuck’s life from the very beginning. Born and raised in an Angus farming town in New York state, Roebuck recalls the early days of learning cattle farming from his father.
Don’t let the long, hard days of farm living fool you, though – the Roebucks value a quality of life filled with happiness and gratitude. “A normal day is being thankful and making sure we can find some laughter,” says Jay, when discussing the work that goes into maintaining the farm.
“Growing up, I traveled a lot with my dad for our cattle business and dairy,” he recalls. “He’d tell me, ‘You’ll go a long way. You may not make a lot of money, but you’ll have a lot of fun and meet a lot of good people.’” Traveling the world for cattle exporting and show fitting, Jay learned everything about Angus cattle, from breeding and genetics to growing crops that provide the right types of feed. And Jay isn’t the only Roebuck with farming in the blood. “I went to work on a dairy farm in Vermont when I was 11,” recalls Jay’s wife, Sue. “Since then, I’ve always been involved with farming in one way or another.” In 1989, a job offer to work with registered Holsteins brought Jay to Maine, giving him the opportunity to expand his vast experience and knowledge of cattle. Ultimately, it lead to his current life as a farmer and business owner.
From export to retail Exporting cattle became the Roebucks’ primary business. Over a four year period, Jay exported more than 52,000 cattle globally from all over the United States; however, not all of the cattle in Jay’s charge went to export. The Roebucks 38
LA METRO MAGAZINE | AUTUMN 2021
Sue Roebuck
Jay and granddaughter, Adalyn Walker, 13, helping around the farm.
Grandson Jackson Brook, 11, helps out with the feeding chores.
Making each day a good one – both for humans and cattle alike, seems to be a mantra on the Roebuck farm.
Jay adds with a chuckle, “It’s easier to work with Mother Nature than against her.”
“I want my cows to always be fed well, be clean, and have comfortable bedding,” says Jay, regarding the importance of care and feed when it comes to cultivating high quality meat.
From farm to table
“In a nutshell, Jay gives them a really good life,” Sue adds with a smile. “They’re happy cows, all of them.”
Planning for success While the Roebucks spent the summer and fall caring for 80 cattle, the number of cows on the farm can vary depending on births, exports, and the time of year. Despite these variables, a lot of planning goes into how many cows will be harvested each year, including making butcher appointments a year in advance. “We have a system and it works really well,” says Jay. “We plan to have x number ready this month, and y number the next. We do this by shuffling cattle to designated pens based on growth. We don’t use any growth hormones. Mother Nature is in control.”
The farm-to-table movement in the United States has grown in recent years, as consumers are increasingly demanding locally sourced food. In the wake of the pandemic, Maine has seen this demand rise, due to breaks in the chain between distributors, processors, and wholesalers when it comes to delivering food to customers. This makes the prospect of cutting out the middlemen more appealing; it satisfies the desire to know exactly where your food is coming from while supporting your local economy. “We can’t compete with the big chain stores as far as price,” says Jay, “but we will outperform them in quality and experience every time.” They share that experience with customers throughout their community. “We love having people come check out the cows. We educate them whenever possible, especially little kids. We can open their eyes to learning something new,” adds Jay.
Hart, the farm’s Border Collie, rounding up the herd. LA METRO MAGAZINE digital edition @ LAMetroMagazine.com
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Special events bring community together Love for connecting with the community led to the Roebucks hosting special events, such as monthly summer Burger Nights on the farm and providing catering for classic car shows, niches that are not typically seen on a farm. “It’s rewarding to look out back and see people talking, laughing, and enjoying themselves over the food we’ve grown,” says Jay.
Masters of beef and beyond “I really just want to do one main thing and do it really well,” says Jay. While Angus is the Roebuck family’s specialty, customers can purchase other meats and produce when visiting the farm. The Roebucks maintain a wonderful working relationship with Windham Butcher Shop and local produce farmers, which allows them to offer pork products such as bacon, breakfast sausage, and sweet Italian sausage in their retail shop, as well as seasonal produce such as sweet corn during their Burger Nights. “We do the best we can each day and give the cattle the best lives they can live,” reflects Jay Roebuck. “It is truly rewarding watching them grow, develop, and feed our community.” Roebucks Angus (Jay & Sue Roebuck) 783 Upper Street, Turner • www.facebook.com/ Roebucks-Angus
Jesse Walker on the grill
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LA METRO MAGAZINE | AUTUMN 2021
A Place For Misfits
Written by Sara Poulin | Photography by Nicole Rand
M
isfits Rehab has been caring for injured, orphaned, and sick wildlife in Auburn since 2002. Its mission: returning healthy animals to their natural habitat by providing proper nutrition, veterinary care, and housing, with a minimal amount of human contact. LA Metro Magazine sits down with Jennifer Marchigiani, its founder, to learn more about this organization and the difficult work they’re doing. LA METRO MAGAZINE digital edition @ LAMetroMagazine.com
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Amy Gagnon, Jennifer Marchigiani (holding Wally), & Karalee Oster
The heart of the matter
education, networks with other animal rehabbers, and keeps upto-date with her permits.
To understand Misfits Rehab you have to get to know its heart, Jennifer Marchigiani. Ever since she was a little girl, Marchigiani has been rescuing animals in need, moving earthworms to keep them from being rolled over on sidewalks and saving drowning bees after rainstorms.
Managing Misfits
Although her plan was to become a veterinarian, she later found a career that allowed her to provide animal recovery and rehabilitation.
From captivity to the wild When Marchigiani left Auburn for Boise, Idaho, on a biblical mission in 1996, she began volunteering with a local zoo. After proving herself that first year, she was offered a position as a zookeeper, even without a college degree. She held that post for three years.
Opossums are pretty regular residents. Babies of these marsupials live in their mother’s pouch until they can digest food on their own. If the mother is injured by a car, the babies don’t have a very good rate of survival unless they are removed from the mother’s pouch. That’s where Misfits Rehab steps in; they will respond to calls and make efforts to rescue both mother and babies whenever possible.
“My section dealt with a wide variety of animals from sika deer, to badgers, meerkat, African porcupines, sugar gliders, alligators, snakes, owls, insects,” she enumerates. “And how could I forget... BATS! I took care of a small colony of Ruwenzori fruit bats and an Egyptian straw-colored fruit bat.”
Once rehabilitated, the opossums are “deposited” on land that has been designated for rehab release with the landowner’s permission. Adolescent and adult opossums are welcomed by many farms and property owners because they eat a large number of ticks and other bugs.
After returning to Maine in 2000, Marchigiani began caring for an injured gull. However, she learned that only a certified wildlife rehabilitator can lawfully take in a wild animal and nurse it back to health.
Misfits coordinates with other licensed rehabs throughout Maine and makes transfers to match rehabs with animals that they specialize in.
It took Marchigiani about six months to meet the training, licensing, and certification in order to become a wildlife rehabilitator. She completed 100 hours of training with an approved rehab facility, passed an exam, and found a veterinarian willing to provide medical care to wild animals. She also had a biologist inspect her facility. Each year Marchigiani attends conferences for continuing 42
At its inception, Misfits Rehab took in animals that other rehab facilities didn’t want, such as bats. Currently, Misfits houses a large number of opossum and squirrel babies, along with a young beaver and a raccoon. Marchigiani frequently takes in “nuisance animals” – essentially “misfits” – that have been trapped on someone’s property, are injured or have been struck by a car.
LA METRO MAGAZINE | AUTUMN 2021
Quite a tail In 2019 Misfits Rehab received a call from the Maine Warden Service asking if they could take a young beaver into their care. Most trapped beavers are destroyed, so Misfits hoped to save this youngster, dubbed “Wally,” from a similar fate.
By Sara Poulin | Photography by Nicole Rand | Misfits Rehab Unlike some wild animals in rehabilitation, beavers require nurturing and contact with their caregivers. Misfits volunteers quickly bonded with Wally, who won their hearts with his personality and antics. You can see the full story of Wally’s two years in the care of Misfits Rehab, and some delightful photos, at the Misfits Rehab website.
Help!!! While you may want to sign up to cuddle these wild animals, the primary goal of rehab is preparing them to return to the wild, which means minimal handling. However, much help is needed, and there are many other ways to contribute. With an average of around 60 animals in residence, some of which are nocturnal, Misfits Rehab provides around-the-clock care. Daily chores range from laundry and cage cleanings to animal feedings. Due to COVID restrictions, Marchigiani has been working on her own for the last year, and is looking forward to again having volunteers come in to the facility. The cost for animal care is quite high, with vet bills, food, and equipment costs. Since Misfits receives no federal funding, they need assistance with writing grants. They also need food, and medical and cleaning supplies. Any landowners willing to donate their property for animal release should contact Misfits Rehab. In most cases, it’s a mutually beneficial arrangement and another great way of supporting this organization. Misfits Rehab does fundraising biannually in the spring and fall through their Facebook page. Fundraising efforts for the online auction in November have already begun. Donations can be made through the Misfits Facebook page, their website, or by phone.
The next generation Misfits Rehab participates in a variety of community events, animal expos, and educational school visits. Marchigiani is often asked to talk about what wildlife rehab is and how the community can help.
Rich Burton, ADC Agent (Animal Damage Control) from S.W.A.T. (Specialized Wild Animal Trapping) holding an opossum. Marchigiani lights up when talking about bringing animals in for students to see and learn from. She feels it is invaluable for young people to develop a healthy respect for wild animals and how we humans can positively interact with nature. With a genuine love for her work and the hope that these visits might light a spark in another little animal lover like her, Marchigiani feels she could be influencing the next “rehabber.” To learn more about Misfits Rehab and their needs, see Misfits Amazon Wish List for ideas or the Misfits Rehab website. Misfits Rehab www.misfitsrehab.org • www.facebook.com/MisfitsRehab
Misfits Rehab To learn more about wildlife rehabilitators or to begin the process of becoming one, visit: www.maine.gov/ifw/fish-wildlife/wildlife/ living-with-wildlife/orphaned-injured-wildlife/ rehabilitation.html Baby opossums LA METRO MAGAZINE digital edition @ LAMetroMagazine.com
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Maine’s Bicentennial Parade: 200 (+1) years of statehood Written by Jillian Netherland Photography by Brewster Burns
9/14/21, 4:23 PM
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o pave the path for the future, it is important to honor the past, recognize the present, and celebrate what comes next. This is exactly what Mainers throughout the state set out to do in preparation for Maine’s Bicentennial Parade, which was originally scheduled for March 15, 2020.
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While festivities were postponed, rescheduled, and reimagined multiple times over what became a two-year planning and waiting period, nothing was going to prevent Maine from commemorating its 200-year heritage – not even a global pandemic.
Then COVID-19 hit.
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Statewide impact For Auburn Mayor Jason Levesque, being the host city for the state’s Bicentennial had always been a goal. Auburn’s 150th Anniversary parade on Memorial Day 2019 helped make that goal a reality. It was Levesque’s hope that Auburn’s parade would highlight the city’s ability to successfully plan, execute, and host a statewide event - and it did. The week following Auburn’s parade, the Bicentennial Commission contacted Levesque about Auburn and Lewiston serving as the host cities for the state’s Bicentennial parade.
Dottie Perham-Whittier receiving official notification in June that restrictions were lifted and the parade was finally to be held Saturday, August 21, 2021nearly a year and a half after its original date. “During the state of emergency, day-to-day living was drastically impacted for everyone,” says Dottie Perham-Whittier, community relations coordinator for the City of Lewiston. “The parade is a testament to the saying, ‘All good things come to those who wait.’ Both cities have so much to offer, and the experience has shown what we can accomplish when we come together in unity.”
Dancing down Main Street
Auburn Mayor Jason Levesque
“This event truly places Auburn and Lewiston on the map,” says Levesque, expressing pride that the parade provided visible proof that the cities are able to host large, statewide events in the future. “The parade defines the region as much closer than many people realize: 75% of the state’s population is within a one-hour drive. To reach the vast majority of Mainers, it is integral to recognize this area as the hub of Maine.”
Patience is a virtue With a tremendously talented planning committee comprised of members throughout the Twin Cities and at the state level, LA was excited for the parade to be held on the exact day of Maine’s Bicentennial, March 15, 2020 – until the COVID-19 pandemic brought the world to a screeching halt just days before. While the committee was left with hanging plans and questions that could not yet be answered, their determination prevailed. While the state was under stay-at-home orders, the committee continued planning diligently via Zoom, determining which aspects of the event could remain and what needed to change, while ensuring all logistics would be in place for whenever the event could be rescheduled. When the second parade date of May 2021 was postponed, the committee pushed forward until 46
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Encompassing more than 100 units including floats, marching bands, and even Governor Janet Mills riding in a 3D-printed boat from the University of Maine, the parade is recognized as the Bicentennial’s marquee event, symbolizing the impact of the last 200 years, as well as the beginning of the next. With entertainment including the Bicentennial Marching Band (an ensemble derived of members throughout the state, ranging from students to senior citizens), unicyclists, veterans groups, and the crowd favorite - the giant lobster float, the Bicentennial Parade made a point to include something fun for all in attendance, while remaining true to the theme of a Maine celebration. Beyond performers and displays, the Bicentennial Commission devoted time and effort to ensure a parade that is both efficient and meaningful. A sign of our digital age, the planning committee developed an app tracker allowing attendees to know where each parade section was in real time, for
By Jillian Netherland | Photography by Brewster Burns | Maine’s Bicentennial planning purposes. They also secured a National Guard flyover during the event. While flyovers are typically only permitted to be a part of national holidays and military events, the Commission requested and received special permission for the flyover to occur.
Party on Lisbon Street The parade route spanning New Auburn and Lewiston exemplifies the magnitude of what can be accomplished when the Twin Cities work together. “Bridging the gap between these two communities creates a true powerhouse,” comments Michael Dostie, president of the Downtown Lewiston Association (DLA), who spearheaded efforts to make the parade’s street festival-style afterparty happen on Lisbon Street. Recognizing the challenges of planning an August parade and festivities only two months ahead of time, the DLA unanimously agreed to host the interactive afterparty as their first family-oriented event.
Dave Cheever, vice-chairman of the Maine Bicentennial Commission “What was originally intended for the Bicentennial celebration and what ultimately came to be are two completely separate things,” explains Dave Cheever, Maine Bicentennial vice chairman and retired archivist for the state of Maine. While the initial idea behind the Bicentennial celebration was exactly that – celebrating 200 years of statehood – the impact of the event became a strong recognition of moving forward by acknowledging the past.
Mike Dostie, Downtown Lewiston Association “The interactive piece is key,” says Dostie. “Attendees will witness the parade, but they will be a part of the street festival.” With a mission to dynamically transform Lisbon Street into a fully immersive event, the group organized the festival in such a way for each block to feel like its own themed festivity. For the DLA, comprised of Lewiston business owners well-versed in customer service and experience, the challenge was met enthusiastically. “We were continually asking ourselves, ‘What makes a cool event that I would want to attend, and what makes it different from any other event?’” recalls Dostie, mentioning that nothing is included unless it makes the event better, such as a lobster monster truck, a “touch a truck” for children, live music from local bands and buskers, and street performers including stilt walkers, caricature artists, face painting, a variety of food, and bubbles from every corner. While food and fun are at the heart of the family-focused festival, the DLA made a point to include LA arts and cultural nonprofit organizations in the day’s events, bringing awareness to community benefits that may be overlooked by the public.
Honoring the past While delays and the changes they caused inevitably resulted in certain festivities being outright canceled and others taking on new life of their own, the strength of Maine’s foundation as a state remains at the heart of it all.
“Maine is - and has always been - built upon community values that still exist today and, we believe, will remain,” says Cheever. “Maine’s history leaves a huge impact in regards to appreciating, understanding, and learning about where the state has been and where it can go; taking those learnings and applying them to future decisions will help us to continue to grow as a stronger state and stronger community.”
A look to the future To wholly appreciate all facets that contribute to Maine’s rich history, various festivities have been occurring throughout the state, both leading up to and following the parade, to ensure events are planned to recognize all that Maine is, has been, and strives to become. These events include Coast Guard training vessel tours in Portland and summer sailing events in Boothbay and Rockland, as well as an Innovation Expo at Thompson’s Point on November 20, and a time capsule dedication ceremony in Augusta to close out the year. The Innovation Expo, considered the future-focused event of the Bicentennial, will be comprised of technologically-oriented organizations presenting hands-on demonstrations including virtual reality, augmented reality, and more. These booths are meant to be interactive with the goal of showing attendees who aspire to work on the cutting edge of technology that opportunities in Maine abound. The time capsule dedication, however, is meant to secure the Bicentennial’s place in Maine’s history for generations to come. Rather than being buried, the capsule will be kept on display and sealed by “capsule keepers,” Mainers who share the state’s birthday of March 15th. The job of these individuals will be twofold: placing the items into the capsule to be sealed in December 2021, as well as recruiting the next generation of capsule keepers to keep the tradition alive. The capsule, which will remain on LA METRO MAGAZINE digital edition @ LAMetroMagazine.com
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Draft horses in parade display for the public eye, will be adorned with Maine symbols, such as the Dirigo star, and crafted from wood of trees native to the state.
communications for the Maine Department of the Secretary of State. The move to make Statehood Day a recorded event will allow the producers to include video from all over the state, as well
Statehood ceremony makeover Although many of these statewide festivities fell to the mercy of planning during the time of COVID, some ended up becoming even better because of it, such as the Statehood Day ceremony. The ceremony, which includes the debut of an orchestral choral piece composed specifically for the Bicentennial and a poem written by Maine’s former poet laureate, Stuart Kestenbaum, focuses on the state’s history and speeches from official historical players. Originally scheduled as a formal, in-person event, the Statehood Day ceremony has been reimagined as a televised broadcast, with a date to be released later in the fall of 2021. While this has been one of the bigger changes to the Bicentennial lineup, members of the planning committee chose to see the silver lining. “Statehood Day will be an even better ceremony now that we have the ability to include additional elements that don’t lend well to an in-person event,” says Kristen Muszynski, director of 48
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Kristen Muszynski, member of the Bicentennial Commission
By Jillian Netherland | Photography by Brewster Burns | Maine’s Bicentennial
Kora Shriners in parade as to edit the final product for widespread distribution in Maine schools and libraries. “This is a huge improvement because Maine Public will be able to distribute it to a much wider audience than could have been reached as a stand-alone live event,” says Muszynski.
One-day parade, a lifetime impact Whereas LA is no stranger to large-scale events, such as the Liberty Festival and Balloon Festival, having the distinct honor of hosting a statewide celebration bringing thousands of people to the Twin Cities has already left a lasting impression. “The entire region and state are focused on this area as the host of one of the most significant events of the last generation - happening right here,” comments Mayor Levesque. By attracting visitors from all corners of the state and all walks of life, it is anticipated that many will return to LA after the parade, either to visit, work, invest, or raise a family. “All the great things that have happened and are happening in this area will now be seen and appreciated by everyone in attendance: locals, those who have not been here in a while, and those visiting for the first time.”
While showing visitors all that LA has achieved and has to offer is an incredible opportunity, the impact brought forth from hosting the Bicentennial runs much deeper. LA METRO MAGAZINE digital edition @ LAMetroMagazine.com
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“This is a chance for LA to show their love for the state of Maine, their place in the state of Maine, and what the Twin Cities mean in the fabric of the state,” comments Muszynski. “We really have come an amazing way – we have built on our past, utilized our strengths, and we are moving full steam ahead into the next 200 years.” For others, the effect of the parade after a challenging year and half remains close to the heart. “What I have most looked forward to is walking down the street and seeing the happiness and smiles on people’s faces, from tiny babies to senior citizens,” says Mayor Levesque, adding, “not just that these people are happy to see the parade, but that they’re happy to be out celebrating their friends, their neighbors, their history. That is what this is truly about: to see people embracing where they live.” Maine Bicentennial Parade • www.maine200.org
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SOCIAL HOUR Highlighting great places to go and things to do in our communities.
The Tasting Room
at Vista of Maine Vineyard & Cidery Written by Matt Beliveau | Photography by David Fuller
I
n this modern age, it is easy to feel as though we’ve seen it all. In the small town of Greene lies a treasure hidden away from the hustle-and-bustle. Masterfully blending the comforting rustic scenery with modern sensibilities, the Vista of Maine Vineyard & Cidery is more than a farm, it’s catering to those looking for a taste of the soul of Maine itself. LA METRO MAGAZINE digital edition @ LAMetroMagazine.com
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Natural beauty Built in 1833, the barn has certainly withstood the test of time. The two barn doors on either end of the Tasting Room are massive; when opened wide, they allow fresh air to circulate freely. You can see fruit orchards stretching endlessly from the ample parking area. From the back side of the building, a lush green lawn and beautiful scenery stretch out below the VOM’s elevated perch. The White Mountains loom on the horizon, and Sabattus Lake is visible. The view of nearby Lewiston Auburn is subsumed by foliage. At the VOM, it’s easy to imagine you’re in your own personal rustic paradise. Inside the Tasting Room, wooden bar-style tables and chairs gleam under strong beams overhead. Selections of ciders and wines, along with assorted foods and non-alcoholic beverages, grace the refrigerated cases along one wall. Drinks stand ready on tap, and the scenery is perfectly paired. The VOM is equally suited as a spot for a romantic soiree, an outing with friends, or a laid-back family lunch. “We pretty much use the Red Barn right through until October,” explains VOM manager Christine Strout, “and then our tasting room moves to the Vista Room where it’s heated.” Adjacent to the barn, the Vista Room holds 150 occupants and boasts heated floors, a very welcome respite in the winter months – especially for their adult yoga classes.
Local flavor Owner Harry Ricker
A growing legacy “The family history goes,” explains Harry Ricker, owner of Vista of Maine Vineyard & Cidery, “that there were two brothers who immigrated from the Isle of Jersey in the mid-1700s. One of them was pretty sharp; he started Poland Spring. The other one was a ‘dumb’ apple farmer.” Ricker smiles. “Now we’re in eight towns and three counties.”
VOM is the perfect place to get Ricker exclusive adult beverages. There are numerous locally grown and brewed options, ranging from the ever-popular Maniac Blueberry hard cider, to the award-winning premium Maniac Black Select. For the adventurous, there are a variety of fall seasonal Maniac drinks including selections like Horseradish, Apple Pie, or Maple flavored hard ciders. Tamer, but still delicious, varieties available year-round include Maniac Mac, Maniac Gold, and Maniac Cran-Gold. If you like cider, the VOM is the place to be.
If anyone knows apple farming, it’s the Ricker family, with nine generations of experience under their belts. The Rickers have come a long way from simply growing apples, and the Vista of Maine Vineyard & Cidery (VOM) is a perfect example of how they are innovating and diversifying their business operations. While the Rickers have been farming in Maine since the 1800s, the VOM is the newest addition to their other tasting rooms, joining their Turner and Auburn locations. “This is the undiscovered pick-your-own spot,” Ricker remarks. “We’ve got Ricker Hill and Wallingford’s, but this one has the nicest views, and it’s less hectic.” Planting at the new Greene location began in 2014. In 2016, the Vista of Maine Tasting Room was established. Although they worked out of a tent the first year, the VOM has come a long way since. The VOM Tasting Room itself is located inside what Ricker calls the “Big Red Barn.” The nickname sets it apart from their white Wedding Barn, a popular location for weddings, celebrations of life, and family reunions, a mere stone’s throw away.
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Christine Strout, Vista of Maine’s manager, with a flight of ciders and a bottle of cranberry wine.
By Matt Beliveau | Photography by David Fuller | The Tasting Room at Vista of Maine Vineyard & Cidery a box of giant Jenga pieces, commenting on some of the games and activities they have available for children. “We were full of kids last weekend,” recalls Strout. “They were great. The Yahtzee and the Jenga keeps them entertained.” Other options for children include old-fashioned playsets, swings, and slides. Other events hosted by the VOM range from adult yoga classes to craft fairs, painting lessons, wreath making, and live music. Food trucks regularly accompany these outdoor events. Every final Sunday of the month, the VOM hosts RockStar yoga, followed by brunch.
The Red Barn at VOM For those unsure of which hard ciders to try, given all these options, the VOM Tasting Room offers “tasting flights” that allow a guest to try a variety of different ciders. Curious about horseradish or maple flavored hard cider, but don’t want to commit? A tasting flight might be exactly what you’re looking for.
On the live music front, past acts have included talents such as Anna Van, Phil Fortier, and Stealing North. Whether you’re looking for a scenic location to unwind, want to impress your date, or have an outing with family, the VOM has a wide variety of activities and beverages you can take advantage of. It’s pretty clear Vista of Maine is not your not your grandfather’s apple-orchard.
Additionally, once you’ve found your perfect cider, the VOM offers refillable, 64 ounce flagons to take home.
“This is the definition of diversification,” Ricker says of the VOM.
If hard cider isn’t your thing, there are Ricker Hill wines.
The Vista of Maine Vineyard & Cidery 146 N Hills Ridge, Greene • vistaofmainewinery.com
“Cranberry is our most popular,” Ricker notes of the wines. “We sell a lot of it.”
Something for everyone Capitalizing on the wondrous view, one popular event is the “Sunset and Sip” held on Fridays between 12-9 p.m. Guests can enjoy the sunset and a selection of gourmet popcorn and cupcakes made by Charles Family Foods, a local food truck operation, in addition to the various beverages and snacks sold by the VOM. A set of well-made, sturdy boards for cornhole – Maine’s beloved yard game – stand next to the back door of the barn, easily accessible for a pickup game on the back lawn. Strout points to
There is no shortage of varieties of cider to be tasted.
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City of
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LEWI
ISTON A peek at what’s next
Written by Toby Haber-Giasson | Photography by David Fuller
250 years after the first two white settlers arrived in 1770, Lewiston is a city of 36,000 diverse residents. How did we get here? As we saw in Part 1, the opportunity for land originally lured hardy farmers to Twenty Mile Falls. Then in Part 2, visionaries created opportunity by building infrastructure for manufacture and power. In Part 3, we saw the city revitalize its historic mills and diversify to attract other industries. What’s the next challenge for this busy city? Key players tell LA Metro Magazine that a strong workforce is essential to the city’s economic development.
Part Four in our four-part series on the city of lewiston and its
225 YEARS
Economics 101 Welcome to 21st century Lewiston. Today’s city offers unique opportunity with its central location, affordability, and the allure of a vibrant, diverse big-city feel coupled with hometown character. The key to its success will be attracting and training the workforce to support local employers. At the start of his term in January 2020, Mayor Mark Cayer set economic development as a high priority.
Lewiston’s economic development manager, Misty Parker “The key is the ability to attract qualified workers to a place people want to live,” says Parker. “The city is making sure Lewiston is a community people would choose to live in, capitalizing on its unique features - like historic mills, public art, walkable restaurants, and its growing diversity, then in filling the gaps.”
Rebranding Lewiston’s new “identity” is generating excitement. Lewiston Mayor Mark Cayer
Since Mayor Cayer has served three terms as city councilor, two as council president, and a term on the School Committee, a large portion of that as chair, he brought many ideas for improvement. “We committed to it on day one,” asserts Cayer. Firmly believing that “economic development and community well-being must be connected,” he charged all departments to take a role in it.
LEWISTON BY THE NUMBERS Total number of businesses.................... 1,457 Tax for FY 2022 commitment...... $58,085,040 Total taxable valuation........... $2,055,380,180
Livable Lewiston “Cultivating an environment that helps the community thrive takes multifaceted effort,” says Misty Parker, Lewiston’s economic development manager. She says the city is meeting the needs of its 1,500 businesses in many ways. Typical assistance includes building sidewalks and parking lots, helping business through the permitting process, and funding downtown revitalization projects. But Lewiston is aiming higher: to offer a richer quality of life. 58
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“We want to kick-start positivity,” says Interim City Administrator Heather Hunter. The “True Lew” television commercial launched the branding campaign, developed by a local marketing firm, by inviting visitors to Lewiston for the state’s Bicentennial parade. The spot features real people and assets that make the community vibrant. A new logo with a clean, modern look pays homage to the city’s past. The honeycomb motif echoes the beehive found on the city’s original seal, symbolizing industry and activity. The keystone references Lewiston’s architecture and its important location in Central Maine. “The beehive and masonry are about rebuilding our strength,” says Parker, “like revitalizing the historic mills and downtown buildings so integral to our identity.” Look for the new brand around town, on signage and banners at City Hall and the public library.
By Toby Haber-Giasson | Photography by David Fuller | What’s next for Lewiston
Explore + Discover Guide The Lewiston Auburn Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce recently published the Explore + Discover Guide to attract visitors and new residents. The guide features the City of Lewiston, along with the City of Auburn and the 14+ communities it serves. “The guide’s vision was right in line with the city’s goals,” says Parker. “It’s an opportunity to shine a light on how the city is growing.”
Interim City Administrator Heather Hunter
Supporting employers
“Highlighting the City of Lewiston in the Explore + Discover Guide was vital,” says Chamber President & CEO Shanna Cox. “As the second-largest municipality in Maine, with prime commercial space in walkable downtown districts as well as by Maine Turnpike exit 80, the city is an important partner in the work of the chamber. But far beyond that, Lewiston’s presence in the guide also includes performing arts, public art, outdoor recreation opportunities, and business startup supports available in the city.”
Having good relationships with the top employers is key to economic development. “Understanding what’s motivating business helps us identify where our development opportunities are,” says Parker. Lewiston’s largest employers are in health care and higher education: Central Maine Healthcare, St. Mary’s Regional Medical Center, and Bates College. “If we identify services they need, we can bring local partners together,” says Cayer, “and Lewiston gets a double-bang for the buck when it comes to jobs.” Bates, for example, spends $6 million in our community. “Our location in the state and industrial parks near the highway work to our advantage,” observes Parker. Accordingly, warehouse distribution and transportation are growing local industries. City staff is shepherding the expansion of medicinal cannabis to adult recreational use, and has done remarkable work implementing ever-changing state regulations. It’s also fostering major investments being made in solar power, which has a low impact on municipal services, and generates a steady flow of taxes for the city.
Mill revitalization Platz Associates led the way in revitalization with the Bates Mill Complex. Lewiston’s 2012 Riverfront Island Master Plan took a broader approach to support future mill district investment, and to establish new uses for the infrastructure. Investments the city has made in Simard-Payne Memorial Park and Riverwalk show civic commitment and attract developers. Chinburg Properties is developing the Continental Mill for a mix of residential and commercial tenants and has sold a portion to Szanton Monks Properties. Chinburg has seen success with nearby Hill Mill, which is nearly full, boasting a diverse range of smaller business requiring light industrial spaces. Next target on the master plan is enhancing Lewiston’s canals, turning them into visual assets with ornate fences, trimmed bushes, and adjacent pathways.
Chamber President & CEO Shanna Cox
Downtown Investors from Portland are buying up whole blocks in the Lisbon Street area and reaching out to entrepreneurs to take innovative approaches. The city’s downtown has had great success bringing businesses in, and redeveloping housing on upper floors that had been vacant. The Downtown Lewiston Association has proved a creative advocate for local business. Recently, it has partnered with the Chamber and the City on JumpstartME, a competition to win a year of free rent in a prime storefront, plus marketing and financial support services, worth a total of $70,000.
Growing the workforce Workforce availability has been a limiting factor for businesses looking to expand, but the city is addressing the need on many fronts. Lewiston had a founding role in the Strengthen LA initiative, which was modeled after a Construction Institute that the city established, along with education, philanthropic, and nonprofit partners. Their innovation and commitment to the economic growth of the region has led them to pilot new ways to grow a labor force with the necessary skills for planned development. LA METRO MAGAZINE digital edition @ LAMetroMagazine.com
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Lewiston Mayor Mark Cayer in the Lewiston City Council chambers LA METRO MAGAZINE | AUTUMN 2021
By Toby Haber-Giasson | Photography by David Fuller | What’s next for Lewiston Lewiston’s CareerCenter assists employers with recruiting, hiring and training. State and federal funding allows it to contribute 50% of wages for workers who commit to 90-day training, which takes pressure off businesses. Lewiston Adult Education fills in gaps with aspects of work readiness and instruction in English as a Second Language.
Stepping up during COVID Businesses faced unprecedented challenge during COVID. While their ability to pivot and navigate so much uncertainty shows their strength, assistance from the city helped more than a few businesses survive. “We considered the importance of allowing businesses to use the sidewalks,” explains Cayer. “We changed our ordinances so stores can bring retail onto the sidewalk, and restaurants can serve customers there.” “We also changed our bureaucratic process for permits,” Parker reports, “and we found ways to say ‘yes’ if it adds vitality to public space.” The City Council has approved allocation of $20.9 million from American Rescue Plan Act funds for three infrastructure projects involving water and ventilation, and a grant program for companies in the hospitality, travel, and tourism industries who can demonstrate a 75% loss related to the pandemic.
Homes for better living Besides helping business/employers, the city has plans to make Lewiston a place where people want to live. Good housing contributes to a good quality of life, and the city is addressing all home types. “We’ve demolished old buildings, and did an incredible amount of lead paint containment or removal,” says Parker, now fielding proposals to fill gaps in affordable housing and move-in ready, modern, single-family homes. “We do a cost/benefit analysis and ask, ‘How does this project help our economy?’ Then we partner with developers to make it happen.” For example, in order to address the gap in higher quality market-rate units downtown, the city is making zoning changes to allow a Portland developer to offer residential housing in the historic Dominican Block.
Embracing diversity In response to national and local protest following the death of George Floyd in 2020, Mayor Cayer has sought to address racial bias in city policies and practices. “Trying to do the right thing doesn’t mean you are doing the right thing,” reasons Cayer. He convened an ad hoc Equity & Diversity Committee, to recommend steps to ensure the city treats all residents equally and that its workforce represents the breadth of the community’s demographics. “If we look inward with an open mind,” says Cayer, “we’ll find ways to do better.” The City Council unanimously accepted recommendations to
Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Melissa Hue increase community engagement and policing efforts, to improve services for vulnerable populations, and to add a new human resources position. In August, Lewiston welcomed Melissa Hue as its first director of diversity, equity, and inclusion, in order to facilitate training and outreach, assist in recruiting, and to review existing policies. Hunter credits Cayer with moving the subject forward in a way that allows the city to grow.
Boost for youth Under a $62,000 grant from the National Recreation and Park Association, administered through the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, the city’s Recreation Department will launch a mentoring program to connect city youth with community members. These mentorships will provide local youth with recreational activities while increasing opportunities for socialization amongst the many cultures in the community. This national grant is awarded to support youth in communities impacted by the opioid crisis.
Transformational grant The 30-block Tree Street district poses particular challenges, including distressed housing, dangerous lead hazards, low-performing schools, and a significant percentage of families living in poverty. Lewiston Housing Authority (LHA) and the City have partnered with Community Concepts Inc., the Healthy Neighborhood Planning Council, and 400 resident stakeholders, to develop its Transformation Plan, known as “Growing Our Tree Streets.” LA METRO MAGAZINE digital edition @ LAMetroMagazine.com
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Rendering of Park + Pine Streets
This spring, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development awarded Lewiston a $30 million Choice Grant to enact the plan, addressing three core goals: housing, people, and neighborhood.
HOUSING
The grant will create 185 lead-free housing units, strategically located to energize the tree streets. Half involve new construction; half will replace distressed units at three sites:
•P ine Street, across from Kennedy Park (on the Sun Journal site) - two mixed-use buildings for workforce and market rate units. St. Mary’s Nutrition Center will help develop a community food center and offer a licensed commercial kitchen as incubator space for business startups.
•P ine Street at Bartlett - one historic rehab and 12 new lower-density residential buildings with family-oriented units
•A sh Street, near the Basilica of Sts. Peter and Paul mixed-income apartments.
Rendering of Bates + Pine Streets
Rendering of Walnut + Bartlett Streets
LHA will own and manage these units and partner with Avesta Housing to develop them.
PEOPLE
“We’ve been providing band-aids instead of trying to address root causes,” intones Mayor Cayer. “Unless you ensure basic survival tools, the needy will always be in need.” Many such lessons were learned by observing the Harlem Children’s Zone model, used successfully in New York City. The Tree Street plan addresses issues of health, employment and income, and education. Rendering of Ash Street 62
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By Toby Haber-Giasson | Photography by David Fuller | What’s next for Lewiston
Park Street, looking toward Lewiston City Hall Community Concepts will offer case management for households in replacement units. Following a coaching model, “mobility mentors” will set goals, chart a path to self-sufficiency, and celebrate successes. Community Clinical Services will provide physical, dental, and mental health care, and substance counseling at B Street Health Center. Promise Early Education Center will move to a larger location on College Street, in order to serve more children and train child care workers.
NEIGHBORHOOD
“Without nonprofits, the city would be in dire straits,” touts Cayer. “If we had to provide the services nonprofits do, our taxes would be higher.” “The city’s staff members are rock stars - creative and unique, and like a family,” says Hunter, herself a 33-year veteran of the Lewiston’s finance department. Top down, she says, from department heads to employees, they provide great customer service, and the community appreciates it.
Residents will connect to programs and amenities such as workforce development and resources like Tree Street Youth Center and The Root Cellar, which are supported with city funds.
Like the beehive on Lewiston’s new logo, the city thrives through the cumulative efforts of all. With so many working toward its success, Lewiston’s future will undoubtedly bring sweet rewards.
Shout outs
City of Lewiston 27 Pine Street, Lewiston • www.lewistonmaine.gov
Let’s celebrate some of Lewiston’s unsung heroes.
•Brewery•taproom•Café•Pinky D’s Food truck•Coffee by Design•
We have 15+ delicious beers on tap - and to go Brewed Right here, For you.
/SIDEBYEACHBREWING WWW.SIDEBYEACHBREWING.COM
1110 Minot Ave., Auburn 207.689.3030
More than a bank. Part of a movement. Androscoggin is now B Corp™ certified. We’re committed to delivering as much value as possible to you while creating stronger, more equitable communities and a healthier environment. Learn more about what this means for you at www.AndroscogginBank.com/jointhemovement.
Join the movement.
800-966-9172 | AndroscogginBank.com/jointhemovement
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LA METRO MAGAZINE | AUTUMN 2021
The Chapman House has private rooms available for residents, aged 65 and older, that need assistance with bathing, medications, and meals.
We provide a warm and comfortable home for our residents
41 Pleasant Street Auburn
207-783-0961