The 118 year-old Friendship Sloop “Blackjack” was extensively refitted over 3 years and then launched in the old tradition from the Sail, Power, and Steam Museum in Rockland, Maine on July 7, 2018. The Blackjack returns to Penobscot Bay to become the oldest working fishing/lobster boat still in use in Maine. Members of the public can take tours on the sloop to observe and participate in lobster fishing as it was 100 years ago. The launch festivities included a team of oxen hauling the sloop to launch on rollers, fiddlers, a bagpiper, and a large crowd of admiring onlookers and helpers.

Watch this edition of “Going Places” to see the complete July 4th parade in Thomaston, Maine. This is the biggest July 4th parade in the Midcoast area, featuring bands, vintage automobiles, commercial floats, re-enactors, politicians, floats featuring local history, the Maine Sea Goddess with “Rocky” the giant lobster, the Maine Wild Blueberry Queen and her court, and other local personalities.

Watch this program for the highlights of Waldoboro Day, June 16, 2018, featuring the parade, a petting zoo, dunk tank, interview with the King Lion, food and games and much, much more.

Every year, The Penobscot Bay YMCA in Rockport, Maine, holds a boat auction to raise money for the Y Summer Camp Programs. Local people donate boats, from paddle boards and kayaks to large sail & power boats, as well as many nautical-related items. This auction benefits the community in two ways – the auction attendees can get some excellent bargains, and the children of the community benefit from the money that provides funds for the Summer Camp Programs. Don’t miss this event, held each year on the second Saturday in June.