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GIFT YOURSELF A HOLIDAY READY GARAGE.

This holiday season, transform your garage into a luxurious space where sleek design meets exceptional functionality. Whether you're creating a showcase for your vehicles, organizing tools, or storing seasonal décor, we provide custom solutions tailored to your individual needs.

Experience unmatched craftsmanship, elegance, and organization—because your home deserves the best. Enjoy a garage that elevates your home and simplifies your life.

"We need a little Christmas."

That sentiment resonates with me right now.

The holiday season always seems to have its way with people. Even with the added stress and busyness, most of us are softened by the magic and the festive feeling of it all. There always seems to be more hope, more joy and more love to go around, and our annual Holidays and Giving issue is proof of that.

Let's start with the fun part: giving (at least for most of the adults!). Peek inside to find our 2024 Holiday Gift Guide, jam-packed with ideas for everyone on your list. We won't blame you for conveniently leaving the issue open to page 32 on your coffee table to drop subtle hints (wink).

The giving spirit is strong year-round for many of our P o rtland City Lifestyle partners. We're taking this opportunity to show you how they're changing lives right here in our community (page 22), and we hope you'll be inspired by them to make a difference in your own little corner of the world, wherever and however you can.

And speaking of inspiration, I'm proud that Portland City Lifestyle is part of an organization that gives back in the most meaningful and impactful ways possible, and I'm truly inspired by what we've been able to accomplish over the last few years with our national Holiday Giving Campaign. This year, as in years past, City Lifestyle publishers across the nation are asking their communities for nominations of individuals or families that could use a helping hand this season. They could receive a check in the mail, directly from us, just because someone recognized their struggle and made us aware of the need.

Is there someone in our community who needs you to reach out to us? If so, please email us directly with your nomination, because no matter the circumstances, everyone deserves a little Christmas.

EMILY HARRADON, PUBLISHER @PORTLAND.CITYLIFESTYLE

December 2024

PUBLISHER

Emily Harradon | emily.harradon@citylifestyle.com

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Rebecca Abramson

rebecca.abramson@citylifestyle.com

ACCOUNT MANAGER

Meghan Morrison

meghan.morrison@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Allison Frazier Oldham

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Lauren Lear

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

AD DESIGNER Branden Cooper

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kathy Nguyen Learn

inside the issue

A Slice of Tradition

Behind

Building Bridges

How

Deck the Halls

Woodland

Styled by Allison Frazier Oldham of Gooeygump Designs, this woodland glam mantel moment incorporates whimsical critters, tiny

Lauren Lear

Unwrap

PSO CHILDREN’S CHORUS MAGIC OF CHRISTMAS CHORUS

ECKART PREU MUSIC DIRECTOR JAMES KENNERLEY ORGAN

Experience breathtaking performances by aerialists and acrobats, complemented by exceptional musical performances from your Portland Symphony Orchestra, the Magic of Christmas Chorus, and the PSO Children’s Chorus. Featuring a delightful combination of nostalgic traditions, unexpected surprises, and an array of holiday favorites, this Maine tradition promises to be a memorable celebration of joy, wonder, and the spirit of the season

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2024

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2024

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 15, 2024

11:00 AM (Family-Friendly) & 3:00 PM

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2024 2:00 PM & 7:00 PM

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2024

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 22 , 2024

city scene

1: Lauren Lear and Krystina Fisher at the grand opening of the Photo Kitchen. 2: Members of the Greener Postures Yoga community at a retreat at Tops’l Farm. 3: Katie Strait and zombies-to-be prepare for the annual Thriller Throwdown in Monument Square. 4: MaineHealth employees enjoy a tasting with Mary Taylor Wine at Old Port Wine Merchants. 5: Brett Johnson, Erin Ovalle, and Katie Capozza at Capozza’s 50th anniversary celebration and fundraiser. 6: Allan Sackey poses with a handcrafted basket at the 2024 Freeport Fall Festival. 7: Caleb Landry works the bar at the Goldie’s Gin Release Party at Blyth & Burrows.

business monthly

PortTIX Moves Locations

After almost 30 years operating out of the lobby at Merrill Auditorium, PortTIX has moved to a new location at 400 Congress Street, Suite A, directly across the street from the main entrance to Portland City Hall. The new space, just a two-minute walk from the former office, features storefront visibility and a dedicated lobby area that provides ticket buyers with better access and convenience. porttix.com

Warby Parker to Open in the Old Port

Nationally recognized eyewear retailer Warby Parker signed a long-term lease at 184 Middle Street where the brand will open its first retail storefront in northern New England. “We can’t wait to open our doors to the community in 2025 where customers can admire store artwork by Maine-based artist Christopher David Ryan,” said Sandy Gilsenan, Warby Parker’s Chief Retail & Customer Experience Officer. warbyparker.com

Maine Clay Collaborative Joins Hanover Works in West Bayside

Women-owned Maine Clay Collaborative aims to provide a supportive environment for creative expression and artistic development under the values of belonging, curiosity, and sustainability with a mission to engage and inspire the community. Their new studio at 65 Hanover Street will offer a range of creative opportunities for local makers including memberships, workshops, and classes along with a gallery wall where student work will be featured and available for purchase. maineclay.org

Evo Celebrates Nine Years

Portland favorite Evo Kitchen + Bar is celebrating nine years with a brand new aesthetic, freshly updated interior, and revamped cocktail list. The new menu includes the Evo Experience (a diverse selection of warm and cold mezze, spreads, kebabs, and large plates) as well as elevated alcoholic drinks like the Passionfruit Sour. Stop by for a date night dinner or enjoy happy hour Tuesday through Friday from 4 pm to 5 pm. evoportland.com

2024 Maine Family Business Awards

fee amount. Please see Member Guide for terms and conditions. Membership dues, fees, benefits, services, and eligibility subject to change without notice. For a AAA Gift Membership, you may choose an effective date between 9/23/24 and 1/2/25. O_ er expires 1/2/25. Allow 4-6 weeks for delivery. $20 gift cards available while supplies last and subject to change without notice. **The listed merchants are in no way affiliated with AAA nor are the listed merchants considered sponsors or co-sponsors of this program. Uses of merchant names and/or logos are by

Each year since 2000, the Institute for Family-Owned Business recognizes family-owned, Maine-based businesses through its Maine Family Business Awards in partnership with MEMIC. Since its inception, 113 companies have been recognized for various categories of excellence. Finalists for the 2024 awards include Dok Mali, Centerpoint Martial Arts, Indigo Arts Alliance, Main Line Fence, McDougal Orchards, Coastal Auto Parts, and more. fambusiness.org/awards

The Asador Grill by the Lost Fire Coming to Rock Row in 2025

At the Asador Grill by the Lost Fire, everything will be centered around the traditional open flame cooking on the asador, a pointed bar designed for roasting and creating a true feast for the senses. “The Lost Fire began as a means of reconnecting with the tastes of my home and introducing people to the unique style of grilling Argentinians have mastered,” said Chef Germán Lucarelli. “The Asador Grill will bring guests closer to the wonder of authentic open fire cooking than ever before.”

RESULTS & BENEFITS

MUSCLE RECOVERY STRESS REDUCTION

WEIGHT LOSS CELLULITE REDUCTION

INCREASED CALORIE BURN DETOXIFICATION

the CITY LIST

We have such amazing, innovative business leaders in our community who are proud to serve you, our residents, with class and quality. We’ve compiled some of our top company picks for the services that might be on your mind this month in an effort to make your lives a little easier.

Specialty Stores

Portland Beer Hub portlandbeerhub.com | 207.536.4070

Salt Cellar salt-cellar.com | 207.761.2122

Heritage Seaweed heritageseaweed.com | 207.613.9744

Soleil soleilmaine.com

The Honey Exchange thehoneyexchange.com | 207.773.9333

Holiday Arts

Art on the Hill seaportland.org

South Portland Makers Market Arts & Craft Show newenglandcraftfairs.com

Fete Holiday Market fetemarket.square.site

Want to suggest a monthly pick?

NYA Holiday Craft Fair nya.org/about/craftfair

The Maker’s Market at Thompson's Point thompsonspoint.com/makersmarket

WE ARE PORTLAND TRUST COMPANY

Portland Trust Company is a Maine non-depository trust company focused exclusively on wealth management and fiduciary services. We work with individuals and families, nonprofits, and local governments. We do everything the giant financial services organizations do while providing local and accessible attention to your specific needs.

It’s more than just a name. Portland Trust Company is the only financial institution in the state with “Portland” as its namesake. We love our hometown as much as you do! This is more than a place of business for us; this is our home and our way of life. It’s our promise to treat you as more than a client, but as a friend and neighbor.

Our customer experience is “real,” like walking next door to borrow some sugar or eggs. We’ve created a home for our clients and their assets—managing their money, their lives, and their futures—with peace of mind knowing that we are a fully regulated financial institution. Together, we embrace our Maine way of life.

Amelia Dow, CTFA, CEO and James MacLeod, Esq., President

A Slice of Tradition

BEHIND THE SCENES AT TWO FAT CATS

BAKERY, WHERE TEAMWORK AND PASSION

POWER PORTLAND’S HOLIDAY TREATS

What does it take to prepare 2,000 pies for Thanksgiving and another 1,000 just a few weeks later for the holidays? An incredible team, plenty of freezer space, and hundreds of baking hours. “Holiday production at Two Fat Cats is a pretty big lift, but we’ve been doing it for so long that it’s a well-oiled machine,” says Stacy Begin, the bakery’s owner. “We start in late September, when all of the pies are made and frozen unbaked. The first pies that are baked off are shipped nationwide, then the rest of the pies are brought back from our offsite freezer and we begin baking around the clock. The second wave goes to our wholesale customers, and then it’s an intense two to three days of baking, baking, baking to get everything ready for our local customers.”

The annual undertaking is a huge team effort, and anyone who’s available—from retail workers to wholesale delivery drivers—jumps in to bake, box, and move pies.

Come Christmastime, the pressure shifts from the pie bakers to the morning bakers. “At Thanksgiving, everyone wants pies, but for Christmas they want a little of everything. It’s cookies, cakes, and bars—all those specialty treats that make the holidays really festive,” says Begin. “We have a bigger menu for Christmas, and our products are a lot more labor intensive.” Baked goods like decorated cookies and Two Fat Cats’ famous Yule Log cake are extra popular and require fine finishes. “Our customers look forward to picking up a sticky toffee pudding or Yule Log every year," Begin says. "It becomes tradition."

ARTICLE BY BECCA ABRAMSON | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF TWO FAT CATS

Since its inception, the bakery has made its home in several Portland neighborhoods: on India Street, its current location in East Bayside, across the bridge in South Portland, and now a new spot in the West End. “We originally opened in South Portland to test the waters with our customer base, but it came to be the center of our operations while we got the East Bayside location on its feet,” says Begin. “We started looking at the West End thinking it would be our third location. When we took a beat to consider the entire business, we realized South Portland had served its purpose, so we decided to close that chapter and focus our energy on the future.” Begin, who had been thinking about opening a cafe for years, decided the new spot at the old Mercy Hospital would be a great place to try something different. “We’ve got the pastries, pies, and cakes we’re known for, but we also have sandwiches, soups, and salads to go, an espresso and coffee program, and a little market where people can grab the basics like eggs and milk.” The cafe/bakery hybrid is focusing on Two Fat Cats' Maine roots, sourcing ingredients that are traditional to Maine and New England whenever possible.

Two Fat Cats is committed to supporting the community that made it successful through the Baking Matters program, a nod to Begin’s previous career in nonprofits. “The neighborhood is a second home to us, and it’s important that we give back and help out where we can,” she says. “Because we’re a small business, we like to be creative and make a bigger ripple effect. We donate to the South Portland Food Pantry, run product drives with Maine Needs, and supply gift cards to fundraisers, and we also support grassroots organizations by raising public awareness,” Begin says, whether it’s by passing out brochures, putting a sticker on pie boxes, or opening the bakery to product drives and tabling.

CONTINUED >

“At Thanksgiving everyone wants pies, but at Christmas it’s cookies, cakes, and bars—all those specialty treats that make the holidays really festive.”

“Most of us who work here spend more time at the bakery than we do at home. The neighborhood is a second home to us, and it’s important that we give back and help out where we can.”

When asked the secret ingredient to the bakery’s longevity, which Begin has owned and operated longer than its founders from Standard Baking Co., she chuckled. “I don’t know that there’s a secret formula. Some of it has to do with luck; some of it is our great crew. When we opened in 2005, the Portland food scene was just starting to bubble up, and the bakeries and restaurants that were part of that era had an opportunity to establish themselves in a more sustainable and patient way. We focus on quality, and we're constantly evolving, which really helps."

Balance

Digestive

Sleep

How our partners are stepping up to support students, artists, and future leaders in the community

Building Bridges

All across Portland, businesses are stepping up to make a difference. Between volunteering and supporting young talent, these local professionals are not only expressing their values but also fostering collaboration and empowering future leaders. Here’s how they’re giving back.

ARTICLE BY BECCA ABRAMSON

Portland Trust Company

The Locker Project is a local nonprofit that partners with preschools, schools and neighborhoods throughout Cumberland County to provide food staples, rescued fresh produce, and donated baked goods to children and their families. Portland Trust Company employees enjoy volunteering on the assembly line, putting together bags of food for students to take home. “We’re very collaborative in everything we do as a company,” says Amelia Dow, CEO of Portland Trust. “We were built to serve the Maine community, and it’s important that everyone does their part to help their neighbors. Volunteering with the Locker Project is a great team building activity that allows us to make a difference, too.”

Centerline Design + Build

Yarmouth-based firm Centerline Design + Build is the presenting sponsor for this year’s annual POP event, a celebration of Portland’s art, food, and culture that raises funds to support Portland Ovations’ diverse arts programming including School-Time Performances for young learners. “Centerline Design + Build chose to support Ovations and the POP fundraiser because of their support of our future musicians, singers, actors, artists, and designers,” says Jeanne Rapone, principal designer at Centerline. “To quote MaryAnn F. Kohl, ‘Art is a place for children to learn, to trust their ideas, themselves, and to explore what is possible.’”

Chris Davis

Chris Davis, team lead at Places in Maine Real Estate Group, was recently introduced to a high school student interested in real estate; after their first meeting, he decided to mentor her in the industry. “I feel a huge responsibility to show the world that real estate is not all the glitz and glamour that Netflix makes it out to be,” he says. “My passion to share comes from never learning about money until my mid-30s, and wishing there were more resources for young people to understand what money is, where it comes from, and how quickly it can disappear.”

Making Spirits

JOIN OUR MISSION TO SPREAD WARMTH AND COMPASSION BY NOMINATING SOMEONE WHO DESERVES A CHRISTMAS BLESSING

“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way.”

As the Christmas season approaches, we’re reminded of the power of community and kindness. This year, through City Lifestyle’s nonprofit, The Kingdom Building Foundation, we will help people who may be struggling quietly without the support they need. But we need your help to find them.

Over the past three years, this campaign has grown into something truly beautiful, touching the lives of more than 150 families nationwide last year alone. Each year, we’ve seen firsthand how generosity can bring relief, hope, and a renewed sense of faith in others.

One person we had the opportunity to help was an 11-year-old boy diagnosed with a rare eye cancer. After he had to undergo chemotherapy and surgery to remove his eye, his doctors recommended a prosthetic one, but insurance wouldn’t cover the cost, calling it “cosmetic.” When we heard his story, we knew we had to help. Because of this campaign, he got his prosthetic eye and a piece of his childhood back with it.

Another was a wife and mother of two who fought a yearlong health battle and was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Just days before Christmas, she underwent surgery but passed away due to complications. Before her surgery, she received one of our cards and, in tears, told us this gift gave her some peace, knowing her family would have help in the difficult times ahead. It wasn’t just about the financial support but knowing that someone cared.

These stories remind us why this campaign is so meaningful. It’s not just

about writing checks; it’s about telling people they aren’t forgotten and that someone is there to lend a hand. It’s about giving families a moment of relief when the world feels unbearable.

“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”

Together with Matthew Perry, President, Steven adds that the gratitude from recipients was overwhelming, affirming this tradition’s importance. “We believe God has blessed our company with success,” Matthew adds, “so we want to be a blessing to others.”

We know many more people could use a little help this Christmas, and that’s where you come in. Do you know someone who could use a blessing? We want to hear about them.

To nominate someone, scan the QR code or follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the form in our bio. Nominations are open from November 27 to December 10, 2024. Let’s bring hope to those who need it most.

The City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is completely confidential. No identities will be revealed or publicized. All entries will be read, and selections and the amount given to each recipient will be based on the severity of the need. For more information, visit KingdomBuildingFoundation.com

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE

JONES

The Naughty List

INGREDIENTS

• Bronson’s Original Punch 2oz

• Laird’s Applejack 1oz

• El Guapo Creole Orgeat .50oz

• El Guapo Holiday Bitters 6 dashes

• Cranberry Juice 2oz.

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Combine all ingredients, shake vigorously and pour over crushed ice.

2. Garnish with lemon wheel & cranberries.

STAY CONNECTED TO

DECK THE HALLS

ARTICLE BY ALLISON FRAZIER OLDHAM | PHOTOGRAPHY BY LAUREN LEAR

One of the best places to introduce seasonal charm into your home is on the fireplace mantel: it’s the heart of the gathering room, and with just a few thoughtful touches it can set the tone for your entire space. This year, the trend that’s stealing the show is woodland glam—a cozy, magical blend of nature-inspired elements with a touch of sparkle and shine. Remember, even if you don’t have a mantel, you can apply the same touches to any shelf or long surface. Here's how to transform your space into a woodland wonderland.

1) Nature with a Whimsical Twist: A hallmark of the woodland glam aesthetic is the use of forest critters and mushrooms—think birds, foxes, mice, squirrels, and cute toadstools. Lean toward felt and wood options if you have a more natural style in your home, or go full glam with mercury glass and smooth ceramics.

2) Shine Bright: Woodland glam is all about mixing textures and finishes, so don’t shy away from adding a bit of shimmer. Mix gold, silver, and copper together for a chic and festive look. Metallic elements like

Woodland glam is this year’s trending holiday aesthetic—here’s how to embrace it in your home

candlesticks, lanterns, or shiny garlands will reflect holiday lights beautifully and tie everything together.

3) Play with Asymmetry: Want a mantel that feels artfully arranged but not overly structured? Set up your decor asymmetrically using the rule of thirds. Group your items into three sections across the mantel with the tallest or most eye-catching piece slightly off-center. This creates a visually interesting layout that feels modern while still maintaining balance.

4) Embrace Abundance: Add in more greenery, more ornaments, and more twinkle lights. The key here is to create a sense of abundance, as if an enchanted forest appeared indoors.

Allison Frazier Oldham is the owner of GooeyGump Designs, a family-run business dedicated to bringing Portland the best quality home decor and unique gifts. Whether you’re picking up one special piece or decking out your entire home, Oldham and her team are available to help you create a holiday look that matches your family and the memories being made in your home. GooeyGump’s retail store offers two floors of fun to explore, including curated holiday collections that make it easy to embrace trends like woodland glam. Learn more and sign up for an event or workshop at gooeygumpdesigns.com

GooeyGump Designs

ARTICLE BY BECCA ABRAMSON

Festive Finds

UNWRAP THE BEST GIFT IDEAS OF THE SEASON FROM SOME OF OUR FAVORITE MAINE BUSINESSES

Get ready to celebrate the season with our holiday gift guide, featuring thoughtfully curated items in three delightful categories: health and wellness, home and decor, and the vibrant spirit of Portland. Whether you’re searching for a wellness boost to get through the winter, charming home accents to brighten up any space, or unique treasures that capture the essence of our town, this guide has something for everyone on your list. Embrace the joy of giving with these special finds that spread warmth and cheer.

Photo: Carley Rudd

Elevate your space with these chic home and decor gifts. From cozy textiles to stunning artwork, these thoughtful items make perfect gifts for friends and family or a special treat for yourself.

Timeless Treasures

Photo: Courtesy of Evangeline Linens

Punk Patti Mini Rug | $360 | angelaadams.com 2. Helena Pot Set (Low) | $48 | viandmercantile.com

Embrace the essence of Portland with this hand-picked collection of local favorites. Featuring stylish pieces, delicious goodies, exciting experiences, and more, these gifts are ideal for sharing a slice of Maine’s charm with your loved ones.

Hometown Highlights

MULTIPLE DATES AND TIMES 10th Annual Gardens Aglow

Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens

Gardens Aglow is an annual tradition for many New England families, and more than 780,000 visitors have experienced the magic of Maine’s premier light show over the past ten dazzling years. In addition to viewing two of the popular trolls, you’ll find an enchanting forest with mushrooms and shooting stars as you explore the gardens. mainegardens.org

DECEMBER 1ST AND 15TH

Maker’s Market at the Point

Brick South at Thompson’s Point | 10:00 AM

The Maker’s Market is an ode to local Maine artisans, craftspeople, artists, creators and farmers. Browse the finest that Maine has to offer while feeling the spirit of ingenuity and the state’s deeply imbedded culture of community and togetherness. Grab your friends, snag a mimosa, and get your shopping done early and often.

DECEMBER

12TH

POP Annual Fundraiser

Ocean Gateway | 7:00 PM

Prepare to be dazzled as Portland Ovations’ much-anticipated annual fundraiser, POP, returns overlooking Casco Bay at Ocean Gateway. Indulge in a mouthwatering array of gourmet delights while being transfixed by the electrifying performances of some of Maine’s most talented artists. Your presence fuels Portland Ovations’ mission to enrich the lives of over 10,000 students through vital school programming. portlandovations.org

CosMed.ink

260 Western Ave, Ste 207, South Portland, ME 04106

@CosMed.ink

Scan to view more of our transformations!

CONTINUED

DECEMBER 13TH-22ND

Magic of Christmas

Merrill Auditorium

Portland Symphony Orchestra’s beloved Maine holiday classic brings a delightful combination of nostalgic traditions and unexpected surprises. Experience perennial favorites like the “Hallelujah Chorus” from Handel’s Messiah and “Sleigh Ride” (performed in a distinctly unique PSO fashion—pun intended for those in the know), new traditions like the Maine Christmas Song, and special selections heard for the first time each year. portlandsymphony.org

DECEMBER 19TH-22ND

Disney On Ice presents Into

The Magic

Cross Insurance Arena

Seek adventure in the great wide somewhere with Belle as she explores the Beast’s enchanted castle, experience Moana’s courage to embark on a voyage with demigod Maui to save her island, and sing along with Miguel from Coco as he follows the music in his heart. Celebrate the magic of courage, love, and adventure at Disney On Ice. crossarenaportland.com

DECEMBER 20TH

Gingerbread House

Decorating Contest

Blind Tiger | 6:00 PM

Visit Blind Tiger for a festive evening of gingerbread house decorating, holiday mocktails, and a hot chocolate bar. Pre-made gingerbread homes will be ready for you to dive in with all of the icing and candy decorations you desire. The winner will be decided by a contestant vote and gifted a winter wonderland overnight stay at Blind Tiger. tinyurl.com/blind-tiger-gingerbread

Kaili is a born and raised Mainer and owns Presumpscot Property Management with her husband, managing 100+ rentals in Greater Portland. Kaili also works as a Broker with Portside Real Estate Group and is currently ranked in the top 1% of brokers for Greater Portland.

Portland Women Investors is a community of women focused on building generational wealth through real estate investing.

We meet once a month to discuss various investing topics, learn from each other, and grow our networks.

All women are welcome. No prior investing experience needed.

Visit us at PortlandWomenInvestors.com to get all the details and join our next meetup. We’d love to have you!

“Kaili made buying my first investment property such a breeze! She was extremely helpful, transparent, and reliable through the whole process.”

- Brandi T., Biddeford

Scan the QR code to learn more about our monthly meetings: