BOSTON, MA — Bakes for Breast Cancer – the Massachusetts-based non-profit organization dedicated to funding breast cancer researchers and clinicians – is proud to announce its 25th anniversary in 2024 and event dates for all ten events, including the addition of new locations for its signature weeklong fundraiser in Washington D.C., Maryland and Virginia. Founder Carol Sneider launched this event and nonprofit in memory of her mother who lost her battle with breast cancer at the age of 43. The best memories Carol recalls were the times spent in the kitchen baking bread, cakes and other sweet treats.

Since its inception in 1999, Bakes for Bakes Cancer has encouraged restaurants, cafés, bakeries, pastry shops, grocery stores and other businesses offering desserts to designate one of their sweet treats during the weeklong event where 100% of the proceeds go to Bakes for Breast Cancer to fund breast cancer research. Participating establishments also have the opportunity to offer up their entire dessert roster where 50% of the proceeds goes back to the organization. Over the last twenty five years, Bakes for Breast Cancer has raised over 2 million dollars and over 5,000 different establishments have participated in the annual weeklong event throughout Massachusetts and as it expanded into different regions in various years. The dates for all 2024 Bakes for Breast Cancer events include:

Friday, July 26 – Thursday, August 1, 2024 Cape & Islands and Maine

 “Since 1999, Bakes for Breast Cancer has been on a mission to do its part to help eradicate breast cancer for good, one sweet treat at a time,” said Bakes for Breast Cancer Founder Carol Sneider. “We are proud to keep expanding into different states and marquee cities, and we will continue to do so in areas with thriving culinary scenes with establishments that share the same mission as ours. Statistics on the number of both women and men directly and indirectly affected by breast cancer are alarming, and we will continue do our best to help reduce those numbers.”

According to the National Breast Cancer Foundation, 1 in 8 women in the United States will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime. In 2023, an estimated 297,790 women and 2,800 men will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer. Breast cancer is the most common cancer in American women except for skin cancers, and it is estimated that in 2023, approximately 30% of all new female cancer diagnoses will be breast cancer. On average, every 2 minutes, a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer in the United States and approximately 15% of women diagnosed have a family history of breast cancer.

About Bakes for Breast Cancer:

Bakes for Breast Cancer is an annual “sweet” to raise funds for breast cancer research and care where hundreds of restaurants, bakeries, cafés and retail shops in 10 different states or regions participate by designating all sales of one specific desert, or fifty percent of proceeds from their entire dessert menu, to breast cancer care and research. Proceeds from the event benefit Bakes for Breast Cancer, Inc., a nonprofit breast cancer organization dedicated to funding breast cancer researchers and clinicians. For more information, please visit www.bakesforbreastcancer.org. 

PORTLAND, ME – On July 26th, the Maine Irish Heritage Center will open its doors to welcome a delegation from Ireland led by Ireland’s Minister of State for International Development and Diaspora, Seán Fleming, TD.

To celebrate this occasion, the public is invited to a reception beginning at 2:30 PM. Attendees will have the opportunity to hear Minister Fleming reflect on the ties connecting Ireland and Maine and the importance of the Government of Ireland’s Diaspora Strategy.

This event will take place in the Center’s historic building, the former St. Dominic’s church, and will serve as a unique chance to bring together local community members with Irish leaders.

“We are absolutely thrilled that Minister Fleming will be visiting the Maine Irish Heritage Center during his time in the U.S.,” said Eric Brown, Executive Director.  “It is a testament to the legacy of connection between our state and Ireland, and also to the present vibrancy of Maine’s own increasingly diverse communities.”

Please join us on Friday, July 26th for an afternoon of heritage, fellowship, and discovery at the Maine Irish Heritage Center, 34 Gray Street in Portland. Doors open at 2:30 PM. RSVP at MaineIrish.com.

GORHAM, ME — Join Marine Mammals of Maine (MMoME) as they take you through a seal’s journey from stranding to release, and all of the obstacles in between. Starting with seal basics such as: whether it’s normal for them to be out of the water and why you might see a baby on its own, and then dive into when and why seals need our help. You will learn what MMoME is, what they do, the animals they care for, and how you can help.

Baxter Memorial Library, Tuesday, July 23rd 6pm

PORTLAND, ME – Evergreen Credit Union and the Maine Mariners will help provide over 12,000 meals to Mainers in need via their Goals for Good initiative. The hockey team and its Official Credit Union raised $6,450 in their combined efforts.

During the Maine Mariners’ 2023-2024 season, Evergreen Credit Union teamed up with the Mariners to donate a total of $50 for every goal scored on home ice. All money raised benefits the Maine Credit Unions’ Campaign for Ending Hunger in Maine, which supports organizations that fight food insecurity in Maine.

Together, the organizations exceeded their fundraising goals of $5,000, and they’re excited to up their game next season. “We couldn’t do this without the support of the Mariners,” said Jason Lindstrom, Evergreen’s President/CEO. “Their players are amazing, and their team has been supportive and collaborative throughout the entire process. We’re all excited to expand this program and increase our donation total for the 2024-2025 season.”

The program is a win-win for the Mariners. “Anytime we can collaborate with a valued partner to give back to the community is a win in our book,” said Jordan Place, Director of Global Partnership at the Maine Mariners. “Using our product in a fun and engaging way alongside Evergreen Credit Union in order to give back is very important to our team.”

“The Campaign for Ending Hunger would like to thank Evergreen Credit Union and the Maine Mariners for their generous support,” shared Jen Burke, Assistant Vice President of Communications & Outreach at the Maine Credit Union League. “Too many hardworking families across our state are struggling with food insecurity. Donations like these help our Campaign feed our neighbors in need.”

Since 1990, Maine Credit Unions’ Campaign for Ending Hunger has contributed over $13.5 million to ending hunger. Evergreen Credit Union is Maine’s 5th largest credit union with over $550 million in assets and serving over 30,000 members in southern Maine. To learn more about Evergreen Credit Union’s community efforts, visit egcu.org/community.

Evergreen Credit Union presents check to Maine Credit Unions for $6,450.00. (From left to right: Jordan Place, Director of Global Partnerships; Jason Lindstrom, President/CEO of Evergreen Credit Union; Jen Burke, AVP, Communications and Outreach at Maine Credit Union League)

FALMOUTH, ME – Embark on an enchanting journey through Shakespeare’s timeless romantic comedy, “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” Follow the intertwining paths of two young couples and a troupe of bumbling actors as they wander into a mystical forest on a midsummer’s eve, only to find themselves ensnared in the mischievous schemes of the fairy realm. Prepare to be swept away by laughter and chaos as mistaken identities and comedic escapades unfold amidst the enchanted foliage. Audiences of all ages will find themselves spellbound by the mesmerizing Mendelssohn score, and the dazzling array of costumes and scenery that transport them into Shakespeare’s whimsical world.

The mortal lovers Hermia and Lysander are danced by Rachel Paradis and Trevor Seymour, with Hermia and Demetrius danced by Emma Davis and Arie Eiten. Aidan Volk plays the role of Oberon, King of the Fairies with sidekick Puck danced by Caelan Martin. The beautiful Titania, Oberon’s Queen, is danced by Anna Cook and Emma Samuelson. Broadway veteran and longtime dancer Jonathan Miele plays the role of Theseus, Duke of Athens. His bride Hippolyta is played by Maine State Ballet Company veteran Juliette Lauzier-Bridges. Glenn Davis rounds out the cast leading his band of actors as Nick Bottom.

Choreography is by Artistic Director and former New York City Ballet dancer Linda MacArthur Miele, with costumes and scenery by Associate Director Gail Csoboth, and light design by Frederick Bernier.

Performance Schedule

Dates: August 1st – 10th (2 weekends)

Venue: Maine State Ballet’s Lopez Theater

Tickets: $21 – $29 with discounts for seniors & children at mainestateballet.org or 207-781-3587.

BRUNSWICK, ME — MSMT is delighted to announce its enchanting summer production of the timeless classic Irving Berlin’s White Christmas. Running from July 17 to August 3, this heartwarming musical promises to bring festive cheer to the Pickard Theatre with its captivating performances, dazzling choreography, and unforgettable melodies. Based on the beloved film, this musical adaptation features a book by David Ives and Paul Blake and seventeen Irving Berlin songs, including Happy Holiday, Sisters, Blue Skies, How Deep is the Ocean, I’ve Got My Love to Keep Me Warm, I Love a Piano, White Christmas and more!

Experience the Magic of the Holidays

Step into a winter wonderland as the entire Pickard Theatre transforms into a festive holiday haven. Audiences will be greeted by a multitude of Christmas trees and stunning holiday decor, creating an immersive experience that captures the spirit of Christmas in the heart of summer.

Holiday Craft Market

Adding to the festive atmosphere, MSMT will host a Holiday Craft Market in the lobby, offering patrons the perfect opportunity to shop for unique handmade gifts and holiday decorations before the show and during intermission. It’s a delightful way to extend the joy of the season and support local artisans.

Meet the Cast

The principal cast of White Christmas features Will Ray (Bob Wallace), Daniel Plimpton (Phil Davis), Kerry Conte (Betty Haynes), and Darien Crago (Judy Haynes). MSMT fan favorites Charis Leos and David Girolmo grace the stage as Martha Watson and General Henry Waverly, respectively. Laura Guzmán, Scout Martin, and Charlotte Van Ledtje will alternate the role of Susan.

The ensemble includes Karoline Brechter, Mark Aldrich, Joe Capstick, Thomas Dalceredo, Mary Beth Donahoe, Jasmine Gillenwaters, Tauren Hagans, Jessica Hoadley, Calista Jones, Tyler Johnson-Campion, Emily Kelly, Nate Krohmer, Christian Miller, Lav Raman, Mandie Rapoza, Eric Rivas, Jeff Sullivan, and Mark Tran Russ.

Creative Team

The acclaimed Marc Robin directs and choreographs the production, with musical direction by Brian Cimmet. The creative team also includes Jeff Hendry (Costume Design), Paul Black (Lighting Design), Robert Kovach (Scenic Design), Shannon Slaton (Sound Design), Colin Reibel (Projections), Kevin S. Foster II (Wig Design), and Iván Dario Cano (Production Stage Manager).

Join Us for a Festive Celebration

Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate Christmas in July with the Maine State Music Theatre’s spectacular production of Irving Berlin’s White Christmas. Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased at the MSMT Box Office or online at www.msmt.org.

WELD, ME — Registration is now open for the 2nd Annual Bernd Heinrich Raven Run to be held on Saturday, July 20 at 9:00 a.m. Join legendary ultra marathoner, biologist and author, Bernd Heinrich, for 4 miles of rural mountain beauty overlooking Webb Lake. The 4-mile hilly out and back course begins at the Mt. Blue State Park Headquarters and follows Center Hill Road to the Mt. Blue Trailhead intersection. Runners return on the same mostly dirt road route and end at the field overlooking Webb Lake.

Registration will be open online through July 17th @ 11:00 pm., or in person the morning of the event. The cost is $20.00 per person in advance or $25.00 the day of the event.  We are offering a family discount of $15.00 per person in advance or $20.00 the day of the event. Commemorative pint glasses will be given to the first 50 registrants.

The race will kick off the Lake Association’s annual “Lake Day” event that has been held for over 30 years.

WINDHAM, ME — Presumpscot Regional Land Trust is so excited to announce that the second annual Summer Trail Challenge will be from July 1st – August 31st at the Land Trust’s largest combined conserved region of East Windham Conservation Area and Lowell Preserve in Windham. This combined preserve totals around 900 acres. This challenge is free and intended for all ages and hiking experience levels. This multi-use trail system is a great challenge to explore by mountain biking, hiking, or trail running! The challenge is to locate and photograph six landmarks within the Lowell Preserve and East Windham Conservation Area.  Explore this expansive trail system, which treats hikers and bikers to breathtaking views of the White Mountains, Little Duck Pond, and lush forested landscapes. Along the way, discover the different trail challenge landmarks, like a glacial erratic, a cave, a panoramic view of the White Mountains, and more.

TWO LEVELS: There will be two levels of completion for this year’s challenge, participants who locate and photograph at least three landmarks will receive a co-branded water bottle, while those who locate and photograph all six will receive a co-branded trail challenge water bottle, and a Presumpscot Regional Land Trust (PRLT) branded hat with PRLT’s new logo. 

CHALLENGE: Visit and photograph three or six landmarks within the East Windham Conservation Area and Lowell Preserve Trail Network:

1) Landmark: White Mountains Overlook | Accessible by wide path/dirt road

2) Landmark: Little Duck Pond Overlook | Accessible by wide path/dirt road

3) Landmark: White Mountain Range Panorama | Accessible by wide path/dirt road

4) Landmark: McIntosh Brook | Accessible by wide path/dirt road

5) Landmark: Glacial Erratic

6) Landmark: Cave

PRIZE: The Trail Challenge is sponsored by REI Co-op. All participants who visit the six landmarks and complete the challenge by August 31st will receive a co-branded water bottle, while those who locate and photograph all six will receive a co-branded trail challenge water bottle and a Presumpscot Regional Land Trust (PRLT) branded hat with PRLT’s new logo. All participants will receive a co-branded sticker.

ACCESSIBILITY: The trail system terrain is hilly with a mix of wooded paths with uneven terrain and wide gravel roads with a more consistent terrain. Landmarks #1, #3, and #4 are on a more accessible trail: a wide path dirt road with a mostly level surface and jogger stroller-friendly. The trail is hilly to get to these landmarks. Landmark 2, the trail is mostly wide and flat down to this overlook; however, as you approach the pond, the terrain can become a little more uneven.

To sign up and for more information register at Presumpscot Regional Land Trust’s website.

NORTH CONWAY, NH – Arts Jubilee returns to Cranmore Mountain Resort for their 41st Summer Concert Series on Thursday, July 11th. The first of five concerts features five-time Grammy-nominated American blues and swing revival big band, Roomful of Blues. Local singer/guitarist Christian Martin will open the show at 6 pm, followed by ‘Roomful’ at 7 pm. 

Even though Roomful of Blues’ lineup has changed over the years, the band has always been one of the tightest, most joyful blues ensembles in the world. Currently an eight-piece unit led by guitarist Chris Vachon, the band has never sounded fresher or stronger. Singer Phil Pemberton brings his sweet and soulful vocals and adds another bright new dimension to the jazzy, jump-blues musical roots. Their winning combination of jump, swing, blues, R&B and soul remains their calling card, as does their ability to fill the dance floor.

With a non-stop performance schedule for over 50 years, Roomful of Blues has earned critical, popular and radio success and a legion of fans across the globe. According to DownBeat magazine, Roomful of Blues “are in a class by themselves.” With their masterful combination of jumping, horn-heavy, hard-edged blues and R&B, it’s no wonder why the great Count Basie called them “the hottest blues band I ever heard.” Since 1967, the group’s deeply rooted blend of swing, rock ‘n’ roll, jump, blues and soul has earned it 5 Grammy Award nominations and a slew of other accolades, including 7 Blues Music Awards and the prestigious DownBeat International Critics Poll for “Best Blues Band”.

Admission is $18 for adults, $12 for seniors, $5 for students, and free for kids 12 and under. You can pre-order tickets online at www.artsjubilee.org or pay at the gate on the night of the show starting at 5:30 pm. The concerts are ‘rain or shine’ with the exception of rare circumstances, so concertgoers are advised to come prepared as they would to any outdoor event. Parking is free, food and beverages are available for purchase on site, and there will be a raffle for a variety of prizes at every concert. Seating is not provided at the venue, so concertgoers are encouraged to bring a lawn chair or blanket. Animals are not allowed on the property except for leashed service dogs. There is an elevator located next to the front gate for handicap accessibility. For more information please visit www.artsjubilee.org. Special thanks to our July 11th Lodging Sponsor: Fox Ridge Resort

SACO, ME – Today, U.S. Senator Susan Collins spoke at the groundbreaking for an upgraded water resource recovery facility in Saco. She was joined by elected city leaders and members of the Saco Water Resource Recovery Department.

“Wastewater facilities play an important role in the health, economic success, and environmental sustainability of communities throughout Maine,” said Senator Collins. “This investment will enhance the capacity and efficiency of Saco’s water resource recovery facility, ensuring that it can better meet the needs of their population now and into the future.”

Senator Collins secured $3,930,000 in Congressionally Directed Spending through the Fiscal Year 2022 Interior and Environment Appropriations bill to upgrade the city’s wastewater treatment facility, which will improve both the durability of the city’s wastewater system and the health of the Saco River.

This year, Senator Collins secured $40,433,000 in Congressionally Directed Spending for wastewater development projects in 18 more communities throughout Maine in the Fiscal Year 2024 Interior and Environment Appropriations bill that was signed into law in March.