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Thomaston Fourth of July Parade 2023
Watch this Midcoast Maine Favorite Event – the Thomaston Fourth of July Parade and Celebration. The parade was led by the American Legion Color Guard and the 2023 Grand Marshall Bob Watts. The theme of the parade this year, “Freedom & Fireworks”, was carried out by the many floats, bands, automotive entries, kids on bikes, and community participants. Be sure to watch the end of this program for an interview with a representative of the Boothbay V.E.T.S. , Inc, an organization that is providing temporary, transitional housing for homeless vets in Maine.
Putin Admits the Wagner Group is an Arm of the Russian State
The Russian state has kept a degree of separation from the Wagner Group for the past decade, but years of war crimes and avoided sanctions are about to come crashing down on Putin…
North American Fires Cause a Smoky Start to Summer in the US
Let’s just say that our old friend Smokey Bear wouldn’t be too happy with the Canadians this past week. And these fires are likely only the beginning of a very long summer of low air quality.
We’re getting hit with the trifecta right now. Wildfires (which are as essential a part of BC’s natural ecosystem management as they are to California’s chaparral) in Northern Alberta and Eastern BC, fires (which happen very rarely) in Quebec and the Maritime provinces, and agricultural fires (yearly slash and burns) in Mexico. These are all large enough to cover a vast swath of the US with smoke individually; adding insult to injury, the smoke from multiple fires is overlapping at different elevations.
Post-COVID China: Will the Economy Bump or Slump?
As countries across the globe peeled back COVID restrictions, many of those economies saw huge (and much-needed) bumps. With China approaching six months since lifting its lockdown, the question on everyone’s mind is why hasn’t the world’s second-largest economy seen an economic bump?
I won’t hold my breath, and the Chinese shouldn’t, either. There is simply too much going on in the Chinese system for reopening to fix everything magically. Between countries pulling their manufacturing needs from China in favor of reshoring, a growing anti-China sentiment, and a terminal demographic situation…China isn’t looking so hot.
Gelato Alert! in Rockport
We welcome Rockport’s newest addition, Freya’s Gelato and Sorbet and Crepes!
Freya’s gelato flavors rotate frequently according to season and ingredient availability. Freya’s gelato is made with milk and cream sourced from Maine farms and includes fresh local ingredients when available.
Dear Friends: Images From Maine #148 — Peter Ralston
Last summer I was out on Vinalhaven in the course of one of our Raven trips when I spied this old propellor lying amidst all the other stuff that inevitably accumulates on working wharves.
I was instantly drawn to it…love at first sight. Perhaps it’s the patina that comes with oxidization, surely the dents, dings and holes have a lot to do with it, but all-in-all, I could feel the many years of hard use it had endured.
I was very pleased by this latest instance of an image and a host of stories finding me and I made a few exposures…but then I was faced by a moral dilemma.
The Ukrainian Counter-Offensive Is Upon Us
There are three main assaults to follow: one of strategic importance and the others being a mix of strategic and emotional significance.
Of Ukrainian Dams and Damn Trolls: A Reflection by Peter Zeihan
By Peter Zeihan A deep dive into the Kakhovka Dam that was destroyed by the Russians. Who probably did what and why. Also an interesting discussion of what has been happening with Russian Internet trolls. https://youtu.be/XlrUkIRCSWI
Thomaston Green (former Maine State Prison Property) and Voter Supression
Why would people be interested in a small town election? Because in Thomaston, Maine, there is a case of voter suppression and deafness on the part of the Select Board to the demands made by the community at a recent Public Hearing on June 1.
Ethanol Free Gas Available in All of Maine.
Maine has long been the home of many lawn mowers, chain saws, outboard motors, jet skis, snow mobiles, automobiles and other gas powered devices. In the southern part of Maine it has been illegal to sell ethanol free gas except for airplanes and race cars. This law...
Going Places 2023 : Toppers Rhum Distillery St. Maarten
In this 2023 episode of Going Places with Charlie & Penny, we visit a top tourist destination in St. Maarten – Topper’s Rhum Distillery Tour. Learn all about rum distilling and bottling and all the various specialty rhums ( French spelling) that Topper makes. In upcoming episodes, we will have more from the friendly island, St. Maarten.
Ukraine War Q&A Series: Why Worry About Ukraine’s Agriculture Exports?
Ukraine’s preferred route for its bulk wheat and maize exports has always been water—specifically via the Black Sea. Now you’re probably thinking, “Even with seaborne export routes being blocked by Russia, can’t Ukraine just send stuff by rail to neighboring countries?” Theoretically, yes, but there are a few problems.
Ukraine War Q&A Series: Why Does Russia Have Oil Supply Issues?
Like CA or NY, most Russian oil is produced in one area, refined in another, and then needs to be shipped to its final destination. For the Russians, thousands of miles separate each of those steps. To complicate this supply chain even further, most of this stuff must be trucked into Ukraine since the Kerch Strait Bridge rail capabilities are gone.
Are We Being Bamboozled by Bamboo?
Bamboo cloth is commonly known as bamboo rayon. Rayon is a semi-synthetic fiber made from cellulose, and bamboo rayon is produced by extracting cellulose from bamboo plants and then processing it into fibers. The process involves breaking down the bamboo pulp into a viscous solution, which is then extruded into filaments and spun into yarns to create bamboo rayon fabric.
Ukraine War Q&A Series: What Happened to the 500k Russian Soldiers?
By Peter Zeihan Question number one of the series is...what happened to the half million Russian soldiers I predicted would hit the battlefield by June? This goes without saying, but the data we're working with is shaky. The video could stop there...but it's also...
DEP proposes “risk-based” approach to metal mining
Maine has a number of deposits of crystals that could be similar to the ones in Newry, as well as rare earth elements and the country’s largest reserves of manganese.
A legislative committee tasked with evaluating a slate of mining-related bills made no recommendation on which one(s) to advance after a work session on Thursday, with members insisting they needed more time to weigh the proposals.
Shocked and Baffled
I was shocked and baffled by the letter, published in the April 18 Free Press and other local publications, from a Mr. Robert Wasserstrom.
How our 2022 Select Board subverted Camden’s democratic governance
You may not remember, but back in December The Camden Herald offered readers “A look back at 2022” summarizing significant events that occurred in Camden during the year. Odd as it may seem, apart from noting that voters last June “approved changes to town meeting process”, the article made no reference to what has to be the most profound change to occur in our town’s governance in over 200 years. But, now, with 2023’s Election Day not far off, wouldn’t it be a good idea for Camden’s voters to look back at what legislative powers they might unwittingly have relinquished back on June 14, nearly a year ago?
A landscape dotted with pastures, grazing sheep … and self-storage facilities
“Used to be a time, you could stand in the pulpit talking about Jesus being a good shepherd and look out the window to see sheep grazing right there,” said Ernest James, a town selectman for 40 years – and from time to time the assessor, road commissioner and cemetery caretaker.
But changing lifestyles are driving the demand for self–storage facilities, with more than 50,000 scattered across the country, according to Forbes. At last count, and climbing, Maine had 211 facilities, reports SelfStorage.com, an online self-storage comparison and reservation site. Garages, attics and basements are overflowing, and the self-storage industry is reaping the benefits.
Portland says “we’re pushed to the brink” by mounting homeless crisis
On a recent afternoon in Portland’s Bayside neighborhood, the after-work crowd began to trickle into one of the area’s many craft breweries and locally owned restaurants. Teams arrived at Bayside Bowl, the upscale bowling alley with a popular rooftop bar, for the Wednesday night league. Shoppers packed the parking lots at Whole Foods and Trader Joe’s.
But a few hundred feet away on Somerset Street, sandwiched between the two grocery stories, was evidence of the mounting homeless crisis in Portland and the surrounding region. As many as 84 tents lined the Bayside Trail, a city official said Tuesday, with more than 30 new ones in just a week.
The World’s Largest Desert… Where You’d never Expect IT!
This place is often overlooked as a desert, but it is in fact the world’s largest desert.
Russian Intelligence Capabilities in Decline
The Soviets once boasted the most intricate and prolific human intelligence network in the world, but things have taken a turn since the end of the Cold War. So why can’t Putin’s Russia keep pace with its predecessors.
Vintage High School Basketball 2002 : Camden Hills Girls vs. Lincoln Academy Season 7, Game # 9
Watch this Vintage High School Girls Basketball game between the Windjammers of Camden Hills and the Eagles of Lincoln Academy. This game was played at Camden Hills Regional High School in Rockport in January 2002. The starters for Coach Jay Carlsen’s Windjammers were Charlotte Croce, Megan Dailey, Aimee Hoffman, Lauren Withee, and Andrea Blanchard. The starters for Lincoln Academy were Maranda Hope, Tanya York, Katie Harger, Justine Flagg, and Maggie Mara.
The Story Of Two Maine Towns That Fought For 200 Years.
As my subscribers know I lived and worked in Camden and Rockport Maine for almost 25 years. I became as much as an outsider could, a Mainer or Maniac. The town of Rockport asked me to make a film for the 200th anniversary and this clip is a portion of it.
For those of you who grew up in this area, there will be many familiar faces.
Lawmakers mull state-backed bill removing open-pit metal mine size limits
A bill prompted by the discovery of a world-class lithium deposit in Newry would dramatically change Maine law to allow mining of metals in open pits of any size, with up to 100 acres actively mined at any time.
The Mega-Prison of El Salvador, Be Careful of What You Wish for
From Peter Zeihan, the demographic expert on the move around the world.
Today we’re talking about El Salvador’s new ‘mega-prison’ that will be filled with gang leaders, drug traffickers and the worst of the worst. In theory, this sounds great…lock up the bad guys and throw away the key…but the reality is that they may have just opened a can of worms.
A positive, open-minded Camden Select Board is critical
At each bi-weekly Select Board meeting, there is a required public comment session on non-agenda items. For the majority of citizens, this is one of the most fundamental aspects of town government. The average citizen receives three minutes to express politely his or her opinion, share ideas, bring up long-standing concerns, or question where we may be heading.
What I have observed repeatedly from the Chairman and those Select Board members seated immediately on either side of him, is not the welcoming, inviting experience one might expect. In fact, the welcome and open attitude is underwhelming at best. These Select Board members’ heads are turned downward, with minimal eye contact unless checking the wall clock for the allotted speaking time to be up. The sense of impatience and dismissal that emanates from these same three Select Board members is both palpable and deeply disturbing. The French Conference Room becomes a sad and unhealthy environment with all of the air and sense of prospect sucked out of it.
Clean Energy in Chicago: Why Windy Suburbs Matter
What do Chicago, Denver, and DFW all have in common? Yes, they are all major metro areas in the US, but more importantly, they’re colocated with green energy sources. As the world adopts more and more clean energy, these regions with localized energy sources will have a huge leg up on places like New York, Berlin, and London.
St. Ann’s church in Sipayik is set to be demolished, but group is fighting to save it
“We’re hoping that public sentiment” for the church can sway decision-makers to stop the demolition and that funds can be raised to restore the structure, a supporter says.
Sooner or Later: It’s Oklahoma’s Time to Shine
That pan-shaped state above Texas offers much more than just tornados and sports. The Sooner State has done most of the heavy lifting in establishing itself as an agricultural, precision manufacturing, and energy state. All that to say, Oklahoma is not only a leader in the US but globally as well.
Hidden Hydrogen
Does Earth hold vast stores of a renewable, carbon-free fuel?
Will AI Steal My Job?
The world of international trade is constantly evolving, and it’s important to keep up with the latest trends and developments. From emerging markets to geopolitical conflicts, there are many factors that can impact global trade, and we’ll be discussing some of them today. So, grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and let’s dive into this exciting and ever-changing topic.
Vintage High School Basketball Girls Game 2004 : Camden Hills vs. Mt View 1/16/2004 Season 7, Game # 7
Watch this Vintage High School girls basketball game between the Windjammers of Camden Hills and the Mustangs of Mt. View. This game was played at Camden Hills Regional High School in Rockport on 1/16/2004.The starters for Coach Jay Carlsen’s Windjammers were Samantha Wiley, Claire Neville, MaryAnn Croce, Jody Newcomb, and Becky Friesland. The starters for Mt View were Amy Miles, Lindsay Hunter, Kristy Clement, Tonya Jones, and Jenny Stevens. Important note : Samantha Wiley is now (2023) the Camden Hills Varsity Girls Basketball Coach – Sam Wiley Bragg!
Vintage High School Boys Basketball : Camden Hills VS. Maranacook 12/11/2004 Season 7, game # 8
Watch this Vintage High School boys basketball game from 2004 with the Camden Hills Windjammers vs. the Maranacook Black Bears. This game was played at Camden Hills Regional Hugh School in Camden, and it was the opening home game of the season on 12/11/2004.The starting players for Coach Hart’s Windjammers were Cameron Puls, Nick Tedford, Tim Stammen, Janie Davis, and Will Horne. The starters for Maranacook were Dillon Collins, Chris Bates, Bryce Spaulding, Jim Palmer, and Ryan Martin. The announcers for this game were Charlie Crockett and Don Palmer and the videographer was Penny Crockett.
2023 Cheering State Meet Highlights
Watch this video of highlights of the Class B State Cheering Championship. The State Cheering Championship for Class B was held at the Augusta Civic Center on February 11. This program includes the routines of Oceanside and Medomak Valley as well as Belfast, Hermon, and Ellsworth. At the conclusion of the competition all the cheer participants gather on the floor maps for a massive, joyful dance party while waiting for the results to be announced. Congratulations to all the participants for an excellent event!
Vintage High School Boys Basketball 2005 : Camden Hills vs. MCI 1/8/2005 Vintage Season 7 Game # 6
Watch this Vintage High School boys basketball game between the Windjammers of Camden Hills and the Huskies of MCI. This game was played at MCI in Pittsfield on January 8, 2005. The starters for Coach Jeff Hart’s Windjammers were Cameron Puls, Nick Tedford, Tim Stammen, Jamie Davis, and Will Horne. The starters for MCI were Dillon Collins, Chris Bates, Bryce Spaulding, Jim Palmer, and Ryan Martin. The remote broadcast crew included announcers Charlie Crockett and Don Palmer and videographer Penny Crockett.
Vintage Boys Basketball Game 2006 : Camden Hills vs. Waterville 12/13/2006 Season 7 Game # 3
Watch this Vintage Boys Basketball game from 2006 between the Camden Hills Windjammers and the Waterville Purple Panthers. this game was played at Camden Hills Regional High School in Rockport on 12//13/2006. The starters for CoachJeffhart’s Windjammers were Jarod Mitchell, Paul Campbell, Christian Pieri, Nick Wootton, and Gordon Fischer. The starters for Waterville were Paul; Johnston, Nate Lancaster, Tyler Eaton, Nick Huggins, and Eric Maheu. The Play-by-Play announcers were Charlie Crockett and Don Palmer and the camera person was Penny Crockett.
Vintage High School Girls Basketball 1992 : Camden-Rockport vs Rockland 12/23/1992 Season 7, Game # 4
Watch this Vintage Girls Basketball game from 1993 between the Camden-Hills Windjammers and the Rockland Tigers. This game was played at the Camden-Rockport gym in Camden on 12/23/1993. The starters for Coach Jay Carlsen’s Windjammers were Angie Holmes, Robin Peckham, Jill Young, Jessica Rodgers, and Beth Littlefield. The starters for the Coach Terry Kenniston’s Tigers were Laura Foster, Callie Fish, Anna Smith, Paula Reed, Torry Hall. This game was produced by the C-R TV crew including Charlie Crockett as play-by-play announcer, Penny Crockett as director, with students Scott Thatcher and Jennifer Kilgore doing commentary and stats. The student camera operators were Jeff Lane and Louis Bailey, with Jennifer Patterson doing the graphics. The players are introduced by Matt Tricomi. An important note is that Jill Young went on to a very successful career as a college soccer coach and has been inducted into the Midcoast Sports Hall of Fame.
Vintage Maine Basketball 1992 : Camden-Rockport vs Penquist 12/23/1992 Season 7, Game # 5
Watch this Vintage Boys Basketball game from 1992 between Camden-Rockport and Penquist. This game was played at the Camden-Rockport gym in Camden in 12/23/1992. The starters for Jeff Hart’s Windjammers wereMike Geisler, Jamie Weir, Matt Cook, Cory Staples, and Nathan Gilbert. The starters for the Penquist Patriots were Andy Hoyce, Ben Morrie, Grrindle, and Harmon. For this game C-R TV Club member, Jennifer Kilgore, was Charlie Crockett’s broadcast partner. Windjammer freshman Dale Landrith also played in this game and scored 13 points. Also, during the Basketball Tournament in 1994, Mike Geisler set a Tournament record for the most free throws that still stands today (36) , and the Camden-Rockport team still holds the team record for most free throws during the Tournament in 1994 ( team total = 77).
Vintage High School Basketball 2005 : Camden Hills Girls vs. Oak Hill 12/3/2005 Season 7 Game # 2
Watch this Vintage Maine high school girls basketball game between the Windjammers of Camden Hills and the Raiders of Oak Hill. This game was played at Camden Hills Regional High School in Rockport on 12/3/2005. The starters for Jay Carlsen’s Windjammers were Georgia Smith, Samantha Wiley, Claire Neville, Morgan Hart, and MaryAnn Croce. The starters for Oak Hill were Ashley Stein, Ashley Maderus, Amber Chapman, Katie Dyer, and Amy Quinland.