Maine Coast Welcome Center

Moving !!!!

2009-05-03T05:00:00.003-04:00

Patti & I moved a bunch of displays in to our new Maine Coast Welcome Center, located at 139 Searsport Ave., Belfast.

We're opening May 22nd, come on over to say hello.

My blog will be at www.maine-coast-welcome-center.com/blog.html

Embedding Video onto my Blog

2009-04-29T04:40:00.003-04:00

Want to jazz up your blog a little? Add some video. Here's a promo for the Welcome Center we are using to let prospective advertisers understand our concept.

‘Oprah’ to feature Maine’s Frenchboro

2009-04-28T04:44:00.002-04:00

Bangor Daily News 4/28/09

FRENCHBORO, Maine — Only a few dozen people call this remote offshore island home, but for a few minutes this week it is going to be the center of the universe.

The center of the Oprah universe, that is.

Frenchboro, which is seven miles offshore from Mount Desert Island and has only about 40 year-round residents, is going to be profiled Wednesday, April 29, on “The Oprah Winfrey Show.”

...A production crew from the show traveled to the island last month on St. Patrick’s Day, Finn said, and learned about the island’s school, its lobstering industry and its history, among other things. A few days later, about 30 island residents gathered at the school to be interviewed... “She asked questions about our one-room schoolhouse, how we cope without having a store or anything like that. It was fairly quick.”

He said that if nothing else the show could help boost tourism to the island, which has about 150 residents during the summer.

“Overall, I think it was a positive experience,” Finn said of talking to Winfrey. “A majority of the people were pretty open and inviting.”

The show is expected to air at 4 p.m. Wednesday (April 29, 2009) on WABI-TV Channel 5.

FMI

Jim's Comment: 7.3 million Viewers will watch Oprah interview Maine.

New England A Hot Spot For International Visitors

2009-04-27T21:31:00.001-04:00

WCHS 4/27/09

NEWRY (NEWS CENTER) -- Tour operators from around the World are at Sunday River this week learning about New England.

This week is the 14th Annual Discover New England Summit. The event brings together tourism experts from throughout New England and tour operators from around the world.

Last year 4 million people from the United Kingdom visited New England. In the same year almost 2 million people from Germany took a trip here.

FMI

Trio of Royal Caribbean Ships to Sail from Four Northeast U.S. Ports

2009-04-26T01:32:00.001-04:00

Trio of Royal Caribbean Ships to Sail from Four Northeast U.S. Ports in 2010
About.com: Cruises Saturday April 25, 2009

The ship also will offer more family-friendly onboard amenities...

Royal Caribbean also will return to Canada and New England in autumn 2010 with convenient sailings from Baltimore, Boston, and Cape Liberty, offering 14 itineraries ranging from seven to nine nights, including ports of call at Portland and Bar Harbor, Maine... Enchantment of the Seas also will offer a special eight-night roundtrip itinerary on June 18, which will add extended port time in Halifax and Bar Harbor.

Guests will have a multitude of shore excursion options designed to provide guests one-of-kind experiences. ...During a call in Bar Harbor, guests can embark on a bike tour that crisscrosses some of the most scenic areas of Acadia National Park.

FMI

“Black Liquor" Tax Credit ??

2009-04-25T05:16:00.002-04:00

Bangor Daily News 4/45/09

...In an unexpected twist, paper companies realized they could take advantage of the credit — by mixing diesel fuel into the biomass they were already burning to power their operations, thereby increasing their use of fossil fuel. For decades some paper mills have burned “black liquor,” which is a byproduct of the pulping process, to run their machines.

These companies should not be penalized for using alternative energy, but allowing them to claim billions of dollars worth of tax credits to basically keep operating the way they have for decades perverts the intent of the credits. Worse, adding fossil fuel to biofuel to gain the credit is completely counter to the intent of the legislation....

“Bad economic times are no excuse to cheat,” Sen. John Kerry, D-Mass., said in a statement.

FMI

Jim's comment -Darn, didn't have to save my Allen's Coffee Brandy receipts after all...

We Mainers Don't Get To The Big City Much

2009-04-25T05:12:00.002-04:00

Flight From Maine Disrupts Congress

Pilot Identified As Casco Businessman

WMTW 4/24/09

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- A small plane that flew out of Turner caused some anxious moments when it strayed into restricted air space near the U.S. Capitol, forcing officials to place the White House in temporary lock down.

The episode was over within minutes as F-16 fighter jets and Coast Guard helicopters were dispatched to intercept the Cessna 180 and escort it to an airport in Maryland.

The owner of Indian Head Airport cited a technology problem that led to a navigation error.

He was en route with his wife to visit their daughter in North Carolina.

The owner of Twitchell's Airport in Turner said Wales usually flies his Cessna to and from his lakeside camp in northern Maine. Dale Twitchell said Wales is a good, experienced pilot but hasn't done much of his flying in big cities.

FMI

Maine, Solid as a Rock

2009-04-24T04:22:00.002-04:00

Maine granite graces Yankee Stadium

Working Waterfront 4/24/2009

Granite from Crotch Island was used in the Babe Ruth plaza.

With all the hoopla surrounding the opening of the new, $1.5 billion Yankee Stadium, most media have overlooked one irony: as fans stream through the massive gates, they walk right by Deer Isle granite, quarried by die-hard Red Sox fans.

Third-generation stone setter Bill Pues, of Conventional Stone and Masonry in Mineola, New York, set the Deer Isle granite, as well as Indiana limestone, in Yankee Stadium.

It was on his recommendation that the New York Yankees chose to use Deer Isle granite. "There is nothing better that can replicate a landmark than those (Maine) stones," Pues said. Planter boxes were also made of the Maine stone.

...In fact Maine granite can be found coast to coast, from the Security Trust and Savings Bank in Los Angeles, to the breakwater in New Orleans, to the John F. Kennedy Memorial in Arlington National Cemetery. In addition to Yankee Stadium, Maine granite can be found throughout the New York metropolitan area, from the foundations for the Manhattan and George Washington Bridges, to the New York Custom House, the New York County Courthouse, the Isaiah Wall at the United Nations and the Statue of Liberty, among many other buildings...

FMI

Early Start to the Summer?

2009-04-22T06:26:00.003-04:00

Patti & I are delivering RideMaine & CruiseMaine to the Downeast region this week. Some comments to share:

Chuck of Twilite Motel, "We were full last weekend and had to call Eagles Lodge for the overflow!"
Alvion of Orland House, "I had guests from Germany come up the drive while we prepping our gardens, so we opened early for them."
Stan of GRC, "The motorcyclists are out early. I've been busy since January."
Dave of Seawall Motel, "We're getting earlier guests this year, much earlier than last year."
Bruce of the SWHarbor Chamber, "Cottages are filling up. People love a value."
Bob of National Park Kayak Tours, "I got calls this week to rent kayaks. We're not even open!"
Denise of Ollie's Trolley, "Last year was excellent and this year's advance bookings are even stronger."

Whoopieee !!! Are Whoopie Pies on Your Menu?

2009-04-22T06:23:00.001-04:00

Whoopie pies break out

By Michelene Maynard, New York Times 04/21/2009

For generations, vacationers in Maine and visitors to Pennsylvania's Amish country have found a simple black-and-white snack in restaurants and convenience shops and on nearly every gas station counter: the whoopie pie.

...But in the past few years, whoopie pies have migrated across the country, often appearing in the same specialty shops and grocery aisles that recently made room for cupcakes. Last fall, they cracked the lineup at Magnolia Bakery in Manhattan, which helped turn cupcakes into a national craze...

...Nobody can pinpoint the reason the whoopie pie finally broke into the national consciousness. But the snacks evoke a more homespun era that seems to provide some comfort. "Pure edible nostalgia," the Williams-Sonoma catalog calls them...

...The whoopie pie would probably be Maine's state dessert, if the state had one. How the cookie traveled to Maine is a mystery, however. One theory holds that it was brought north through the Yummy Book, a recipe pamphlet first published in 1930 by Durkee-Mower, the Massachusetts company that makes Marshmallow Fluff.

But Don Durkee, whose father co-founded the firm, said the earliest appearance of whoopie pies in the pamphlets was during the 1970s. "I'm baffled," he said.

No matter how they arrived, they have been eaten by Maine residents for at least eight decades, said Oliver, who publishes Food History News, a monthly newsletter. Labadie's Bakery, in Lewiston, Maine, which sells whoopie pies as big as 16 inches across, claims to have sold them since 1925.

FMI

9 Deals to Get You Face-to-Face with Nature

2009-04-20T07:07:00.001-04:00

Time Magazine Apr. 20, 2009

Travel news, updates and deals for the week of April 20, 2009

...Cheap Fares on AirTran. Budget carrier AirTran has flights from Atlanta to Portland, Maine, starting at $89...

FMI

Getting on the Map, GPS Map that is

2009-04-19T21:00:00.003-04:00

Jim's Comment: I've updated some info from the Maine Innkeepers Association. I've tried the links and they all work! So you do need to invest some effort, then you can be on the GPS's like the big guys!

Tele Atlas delivers the digital maps and dynamic content that power some of the world’s most essential navigation and location-based services. The information is the foundation for a wide range of personal and in-car navigation systems and mobile and Internet map applications that help users find the people, places, and services they need, wherever they are.
Update your info at:
http://mapinsight.teleatlas.com/mapfeedback/index.php

NAVTEQ digital map data offers accuracy, detail, reliability, and flexibility. Continuously updated to maintain its freshness and precision, NAVTEQ digital map data not only enables door-to-door routing throughout Europe and North America, it contains millions of Points of Interest (POIs), making it easy to locate everything from restaurants to hospitals and gas stations. You’ll find NAVTEQ data onboard most navigation-enabled vehicles produced in North America and Europe and on all the top Internet navigation sites.
Update your info at:
http://mapreporter.navteq.com

Garmin’s goal, as it was then, remains simple: To create navigation and communication devices that can enrich our customers’ lives. Our innovative products span various areas of interest, including automotive, aviation, marine, fitness, outdoor recreation and wireless applications.
Update your info at:
http://www8.garmin.com/cartography/mapSource/errorForm.jsp

Since 1856 Rand McNally has offered the most trusted tools to discover, map and navigate your world. The company leads the way with innovative products and services for the consumer, business, education, government and commercial transportation markets.
Update your info at:
http://www.randmcnally.com/rmc/company/cmpContactUs2.jsp?dept=site_feedback&cmty=0

Google Maps finds local businesses, view maps and get driving directions.
Update your info at:
http://www.google.com/local/add/businessCenter?gl=us&hl=en-US

MapQuest, Inc. offers Internet, wireless and business mapping applications that help people find places and get there.
Update your info at:
http://help.mapquest.com/jive/mqdataerror.jspa

Cruising Out Of New York Or Boston Can Be Affordable (to Maine)

2009-04-19T17:32:00.001-04:00

Courant.com April 19, 2009 Hartford, Conn.

Want to cruise out of New York or Boston this year for a reasonable rate? It can be done...

...The somewhat more upscale Caribbean Princess follows a similar route, adding Bar Harbor, Maine, on seven-day voyages in the late summer and autumn...

...Holland America's Maasdam is doing a seven-day one-way trip from Boston to Montreal, with port calls in Bar Harbor, Halifax, Sydney, Prince Edward Island and Quebec City, departing May 30. The price is $660 or $94 a day...

FMI

How About A Little Optimism?

2009-04-18T06:07:00.002-04:00

Dow ends best 6 weeks since 1938 on econ hopes

Washington Post 4/17/09

Stocks rose on Friday, with the Dow scoring its biggest six-week gain since July 1938. The Dow is up 22.7 percent over the past six weeks, making this the largest six-week gain since July 29, 1938.

FMI

Jim's comment: So you're thinking of vacation plans from the megalopolis... does this plant a seed of optimism? Come to Maine and eat a big lobster!

Best city cruises

2009-04-18T05:40:00.002-04:00

Fancy boats you can take from downtown

Canoe.ca 4/18/09
(Canoe.ca is a leading local and national interactive media provider of news, entertainment and services, helping to inform and connect Canadians.)

...Lobster, not beer, is the lure to Maine’s Portland. The coastal community is situated on scenic Casco Bay, which is filled with fishing vessels and numerous islands, ranging from the Diamond Cove resort community (the former site of Fort McKinley) to beachy Long Island, which seceded from Portland in 1993. You can reach these islands via the workmanlike Casco Bay Lines service. The ferry boats—equipped with decks, where you can savor a BYOB beer and superb views—run daily, with special charter trips including a New England-style lobster bake (complete with steamed clams and corn on the cob) at a restored summer playhouse on Peaks Island...

FMI

Two Crystal Balls

2009-04-18T05:11:00.001-04:00

Our first wizard from Falmouth sees this:

New Private Residence Club Takes Shape in Pristine Lakefront Maine Setting

(FALMOUTH, ME) -- The private residence club concept is coming to New England thanks to local Perry and Melinda Williams. Eager to share their enthusiasm for Maine lakefront living with other families, the Williams family recently announced the creation of a new private residence club that will debut this summer in the Sebago Lakes Region.

The Maine Lakefront Club, comprising a collection of existing, estate-style homes with an average price of $1.5 million, will offer deeded, shared ownership in the PRC for $275,000. The Williams are in the process of closing on the first home, and will add more properties to the club's portfolio as demand dictates. The club's hassle-free ownership and affordable luxury will provide a highly desirable vacation home alternative for frequent visitors.

"All of our properties will feature private lake frontage and docks, complemented by exquisite furnishings and design," says Perry Williams. "The lack of new construction makes Maine Lakefront Club an environmentally friendly project, and the use of existing homes means we'll have some of the most desirable locations available in the Sebago Lakes Region."

FMI

Our second wizard from the Portland Press Herald sees this:

Recession chills market for Vacationland rentals

Portland Press Herald 4/16/09

Agencies and property owners find summer visitors are booking later and seeking lower prices.

Rental agents and property owners in Maine tourist towns are finding the recession has visitors booking later, regulars returning at lower rates and bargain hunters more aggressively seeking discounts. At the same time, more houses are being offered for rent by owners who are unable to sell in a slow real estate market.

FMI

Jim's comment: Gentlemen & Ladies: Memorial Day is a month away, place your bets, let the games begin!

Unofficial Welcome Session

2009-04-18T05:00:00.000-04:00

Patti & I encountered our buddy Charlie, the Real Estate Man, in front of the former Jed's restaurant. Seem's the recently acquired property will open this summer.

So while the three of us are chatting, a car pulled up, with a couple from "away" asking "is this a good place to eat?" Patti entered her Welcome Center mode, told them this place wasn't open yet and directed them to another local spot.

Minutes later, another car, another couple, same request.

In less than 5 minutes, an indication that travelers are out and looking for local business!

We will be welcoming many guests this summer at the Maine Coast Welcome Center!

Focus Shifts Overseas as Economic News Recedes

2009-04-14T04:45:00.002-04:00

Journalism.org, Pew Research Center’s Project for Excellence in Journalism, 4/14/09

After weeks of being fixated on grim economic news, the mainstream media narrative shifted dramatically last week to a mix of dramatic international events.

Coverage of the economic meltdown fell to 15% of the news hole the week of April 6-12, according to the Pew Research Center’s Project for Excellence in Journalism. That is the lowest level of attention to that subject since the week of President Obama’s inauguration.

...So does this dramatic pivot in coverage suggest a significant shift in attention away from the grim economy— the story that has overwhelmed the national narrative since Obama took office?...

...it may signal something that the economy was not pushed aside by a single overarching story but a series of them, and stories that earlier in the year might have generated less attention.

And in one a sure sign there was no major economic news last week, some coverage of the financial situation was the man-bites-dog variety—a few rays of hopeful news.

The Economic Crisis: Glimmers of Sunshine

...One twist to the narrative last week included some bright spots, or at least brighter ones, in a situation that has frequently invited comparisons with the Great Depression.

On the April 9 newscast, CBS anchor Katie Couric reported that better-than-expected profits for Wells Fargo helped drive the Dow Jones up nearly 250 points. “So are banks back?” she asked correspondent Anthony Mason.

...Relatively speaking, that’s a burst of optimism.

Another theme last week highlighted pockets of good news in a hard-hit economy. There were stories about California wines doing pretty well, the success of the romance novel genre, and how the consumption of candy and sweets had grown. (Perhaps the lesson here is that that people turn to basic comforts in tough times.)

An April 8 Wall Street Journal story featured a North Carolina furniture company called Craftmaster that found success amid the economic turmoil. “When businesses flame out, there are often others on the sidelines, like Craftmaster, ready to pick up the pieces,” the article noted. “At Craftmaster, which assembles upholstered sofas and chairs that sell in stores for less than $1000, revenues rose 4% last year and have grown 5% since January…”

FMI

Jim's comment: Our summer season may well be our "Glimmer of Sunshine"

10 Best Coastal Eco-Resorts

2009-04-14T04:39:00.000-04:00

Coastal Living Magazine, April 09

10 Best Coastal Eco-Resorts

From open-air tropical bungalows to luxe tree houses, let these idyllic hideaways decrease your carbon footprint as they expand your horizons

The Colony Hotel, Kennebunkport, Maine

Although nearly a century old, this New England classic can teach eco-upstarts a thing or two. Guests drawn by sweeping Atlantic views, the heated saltwater pool, and a private beach also get organic foods and a nature education program.

Eco cred: The Colony composts waste and has banned plastic foam containers, aerosol sprays, and plastic bin liners. Trash baskets in each room have four compartments, allowing guests to sort recyclables.

Insider’s tip: Pick up a recycled souvenir. The hotel turns worn bedspreads and linens into handcrafted dog blankets.

FMI

Maine Top Awards

2009-04-13T20:08:00.002-04:00

Bar Harbor Motel makes top ten list

WABI · Apr 13th 2009 ·

At a time when many folks are starting to make plans for summer vacations, there's a new list out of the top ten most family friendly hotels in the U.S.

A motel in Bar Harbor is on that list.

"We're the world's largest travel community. We have more than 25 million monthly visitors to Trip Advisor, and we feature more than 23 million reviews."

"Saving money is top of everyone's mind now, and Trip Advisor identified great family friendly motels for less than 150 dollars pre night. Bar Harbor's Bar Harbor Motel made number 3 of the top 10 in the United States."

FMI

Magazine Rates Allagash Among Nation's Top Five Adventure Destinations -

MPBN 4/13/09

"Outside" magazine rates Maine's Allagash Wilderness Waterway as one of the nation's five top "man vs. wild" adventure trips. The magazine is a national publication that reaches more than 2 million outdoor readers each month, according to Maine's Department of Conservation.

FMI

Maine Business Goes Beyond Lobster

2009-04-13T06:07:00.006-04:00

Elmet wins trade award

Monday, April 13, 2009 LEWISTON - The Maine International Trade Center announces the winners of the 2009 Maine International Trade and Investment Awards.

Winning the 2009 Exporter of the Year award is Elmet Technologies Inc. of Lewiston. A manufacturer of specialized refractory metal products, Elmet has recently begun a focused and disciplined approach to exporting - and has been rewarded with an expanding overseas customer base, particularly in Europe and Asia.

Elmet Technologies is an 80-year-old company with more than 200 employees. Its products are used in a number of high-technology industries, including electronics, nuclear, medical, lighting, semiconductor, furnace, energy and aerospace.

FMI

Jim's comment: Congrats to Elmet for seeking new markets!
So I wondered... what products are in this "Exporter of the Year" consideration? Here are the top 10.
Take a look at the % Change number.... exports were UP for 2008 over 2007? Never saw this in the paper. I guess I don't understand what is Newsworthy.

FMI

The Maine Brand

2009-04-10T02:29:00.002-04:00

As summer approaches, restaurants across the country are revising their menus for the new season. Countless restaurants market the "Maine" brand to entice customers. Here's an example from Sedona, Arizona a popular Southwestern tourist area. (Patti & I have been here ourselves)

Sedona dining, from casual to fancy

AZ Central.com

4/10/09

Sedona has more than its share of excellent restaurants. And contrary to the red-rock community's health-crazed image, it's as easy to find foie gras and French wine as vegan stir-fries and green tea...

...Fine dining ...

Gallery on Oak Creek: Views are jaw-dropping from this elegant dining room in Amara Creekside Resort. At lunch, the applewood-smoked bacon sandwich with sweet-and-sour pear tomatoes redefines the BLT. For dinner, try the butter-poached Maine lobster with seared Maine diver scallops. Much of the produce comes from the restaurant's organic gardens.

Jim: So here we are in Maine, getting nice exposure from Sedona, AZ and other locations. From a marketing perspective, this is priceless.

The importance of community vision

2009-04-10T02:13:00.001-04:00

Planning Resource
UK 4/10/09

Urban Land Institute planner Edward T McMahon tells Katie Daubney of the importance of community vision in creating places that preserve vital assets and improve quality of life.

...He has written extensively on chain stores and franchises. He relates McDonald's first dealings with historic buildings. In 1980 the company planned to tear down a classic New England courthouse in Freeport, Maine, and put up a typical suburban replacement. The town asked it to restore the building instead.

McDonald's sued and lost twice. Yet within three years a picture of its Freeport outlet in the restored courthouse appeared in its annual report as an example of good community stewardship. Nowadays, this is a model for McDonald's all over the world - but only in communities that are smart enough to reject the off-the-shelf model and demand something that fits with their town...

FMI

‘We Get By’ with a little help from our friends

2009-04-10T02:05:00.000-04:00

Premiere of troop greeter film a hit

BDN 4/10/09

...The movie, filmed over a four-year period beginning in December 2004, has been shown and widely praised at film festivals across the country. On Thursday, the final version of the film was unveiled for the first time to a Maine audience of invited guests at the University of Maine’s Collins Center...

...The movie has touched audiences and critics at various film festivals, scoring a Special Jury Award at the prestigious South by Southwest Film Festival last month in Austin, Texas. It also beat out 28 films at the Cleveland Film Festival to take the Greg Gund Memorial Film Competition, which recognizes films for their social conscience...

...Asked what message he hopes people get from “The Way We Get By,” Gaudet said: “I hope it inspires people to get involved in their community.”...

FMI

Jim comment: I'm proud to be a "Mainer"

Belfast on EarthCam's Top 10

2009-04-09T04:43:00.002-04:00

I missed this one in February. The Comfort Inn's Belfast webcam made the top 10 at EarthCam.

To show your friends across the internet what's happening in Belfast, Maine send them to the Belfast WEBCAM.

Sugarloaf’s reggae festival is April 16-19

2009-04-08T05:04:00.002-04:00

BDN April 8, 2009

CARRABASSETT VALLEY, Maine — Sugarloaf’s Bud Light Reggae Festival, the annual spring party that brings thousands of visitors to the mountains of Maine, returns April 16-19 with 11 different bands...

The annual springtime festival got its start at Sugarloaf in 1988 as a way to celebrate the changing of seasons and enjoy the deep snow, warm sun, and spring skiing. Since that time the festival has grown into one of the most popular spring parties in ski country, drawing 10,000 or more reggae and spring skiing fans each year.

Ski-and-stay packages are still available for Reggae Weekend starting as low as $99 per person per night and include lodging, lift ticket and access to the Sugarloaf Sports and Fitness Center.

FMI

Jim comment: Promotion, packages, drawing 10,000 or more! This is Good Business.

Troop greeters film to make Maine debut in Orono

2009-04-08T04:59:00.001-04:00

BDN April 8, 2009

It has been all over the country, from Texas to Cleveland to Philadelphia to Florida.

Now the completed version of an award-winning documentary film about the troop greeters at Bangor International Airport will be shown in Maine for the first time.

“The Way We Get By,” which was directed by Old Town native Aron Gaudet, will debut Thursday night at the Collins Center for the Arts at the University of Maine in Orono.

There will be four showings. The first, an invitation-only event for Maine Army National Guardsmen, their families, troop greeters and sponsors, will start at 7 p.m. Thursday.

Public showings will be held at 4:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Friday and noon Saturday.

FMI

Three Tourism Twitter Accounts We Don't Want To Shake Our Fist At

2009-04-07T06:01:00.002-04:00

Jaunted April 6, 2009

When Travel Portland launched its associated Twitter account, it added a little something longer than 140 characters -- a mission statement:

If what you’re doing is planning a trip to Portland — or just looking for cool places and happenings around town — you should follow Travel Portland. We share tips on making the most of this city we love, and we’re happy to answer any questions you may have, whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned pro.

In an ideal world, all tweeters would have to justify their existence. Oh, if only it were that easy! But since we're all about separating signals from noise: here are three travel-related Twitter accounts who know what they're into.

Best on Message: VisitMaine -- No Follow Fridays, no snark about how Britney has more followers than Barack. This account's last 20 updates are all about Maine. We admire that discipline!

FMI

Jim's comment: I'm not a Twitterer, however I recognize publicity is good, so whatever works... I applaud the Maine Office of Tourism for reaching out to new mediums.

The Boston Globe Loves ME

2009-04-06T06:05:00.002-04:00

Maine gets a two-fer today, thanks to the Boston Globe:

The art of being small gives Belfast a new frame
A town working at diversifying

By David Lyon, Globe Correspondent | April 5, 2009

BELFAST - Some things, fortunately, never change. You can still get a dynamite cinnamon bun at Weaver's Bakery, where my best friend and I sometimes helped his father make doughnuts in the predawn chill before we went out on our paper routes. The sun still rises over the harbor, lighting up the dew on the town's lush lawns. And the rocking ocean still sets the hardware clanging on the boats at anchor.

Of course, when I was growing up here in the '60s, no one called Belfast one of America's "10 Coolest Small Towns" (as Budget Travel magazine did last year). Like many small Maine towns of that era, Belfast was a place where some kids were so eager to leave that they enlisted in the armed services at the height of the Vietnam War.

Now Belfast is a magnet, especially for people with a bit of imagination.

FMI

AND:

Pearls on the coast at down-to-earth rates

By Hilary Nangle, Globe Correspondent | April 5, 2009

Cheap sleeps on the coast of Maine? Amid the luxury hotels, fancy inns, and white-bread chains there are reasonably placed accommodations that include no-frills motels, bed-and-breakfasts, and intriguing options such as a former monastery and a lodge built by Civil War veterans.

These possibilities, listed from south to north, are convenient to coastal locations; a few are waterfront. Each has peak-season rooms for less than $100 per night. Travel spring or fall and reap even better rewards.

FMI

Jim's comment: I'm grateful for the free press our Great State of Maine receives from the rest of the country. I may have to come up with friendly nickname for our Massachusetts guests.

Winter gives tourism a lift

2009-04-06T05:18:00.005-04:00

Ski areas, snowmobile dealers and the lodging industry have a good year.

By ANN S. KIM, Maine Sunday Telegram April 5, 2009

The recession had Terry MacGillivray, who rents snowmobiles, concerned about business this winter. The snowmobiling season got off to a slow start but ended strong for his business – probably about as well as last winter's record year.

"I was nervous at first because of talk of the economy and yada, yada, yada," said MacGillivray, the owner of Fryeburg Snowmobile Rentals.

The combination of abundant snow and bargain-hunters determined to enjoy themselves despite the economy seemed to be a winning one for MacGillivray and many others who work in winter tourism. The snowmobiling and skiing industries enjoyed strong turnout, and businesses that catered to those winter sports enthusiasts and other wintertime travelers also may have fared well.

"Everybody had a good season this year," said Greg Sweetser, executive director of the Ski Maine Association.

Community-oriented ski areas benefited from skiers who opted to stay close to home this winter, Sweetser said. Skiers who might otherwise have gone West, meanwhile, gave a boost to the larger ski areas, he said.

Saddleback Mountain in Rangeley saw a 24 percent increase in ticket sales and a 23 percent increase in season pass sales, said JoAnne Taylor, the resort's marketing director. Prices have not changed, she said, but skiers this winter were more interested in deals.

"This year, the message really resonated with people because people were looking for good value," she said.

Sunday River also had a strong season and was on pace to meet its recording-setting performance last year, said Darcy Liberty, a spokeswoman.

There's anecdotal evidence that suggests that the situation for Maine's lodging industry is improving, too...

Lodging businesses around ski areas fared well. Said Greg Dugal, executive director of the Maine Innkeepers Association, "I've had some people tell me they've had their best winter." Dugal said there's a chance that the lodging industry may meet the performance of last year, when revenues were up five-eighths of a percent.

The Chapman Inn in Bethel did about the same or maybe even a little better this season than last, said Sandra Frye, the innkeeper."We had a good winter, surprisingly so," she said. "I think people are traveling more local rather than flying off."

Business at Town and Lake Motel and Cottages in Rangeley was a bit slow in January but booming in February and March, said Joey Morton, the owner. "Business was good. That was all that really mattered," he said.

Patterns in snowmobile registrations indicate that people were being more careful with their money. Sales of nonresident season passes were down, but nonresident 10-day and three-day passes were up significantly, said Bob Meyers, executive director of the Maine Snowmobile Association.

"Clearly, one way or another, they were still going to go. It's just how they went and where they went kind of moderated this year," he said.

MacGillivray, the Fryeburg rental shop owner, said more people were asking about discounts this season...
While the season was shorter this year, the business increased the number of sleds in its fleet and added incentives to encourage midweek rentals. Those factors helped business reach the levels it did.

"We had a really good year," MacGillivray said.

FMI

Jim's comment: Winters tourists are watching their spending and winter businesses adjusted. Expect similar patterns for the SUMMER.

Bean plans growth for lobstering community

2009-04-05T10:36:00.002-04:00

The Herald Gazette

PORT CLYDE (April 5): Linda Bean is a Portland native and has lived on the St. George Peninsula since 1990. In February 2007, after she had moved from Tenants Harbor to Port Clyde, she bought the Bay Lobster Company from the Albano family, changed the name to Port Clyde Lobster Company, and launched a new brand and a new way of marketing Maine's signature crustacean.

Bean has also made some innovations in marketing. She said most retailers and restaurants are interested in the tail of the lobster, and she is committed to creating a market for the knuckle and claw. One new product, a shrimp pie garnished with a lobster claw, is being sold across the United States in the same markets that sell live lobster.

This summer she plans to expand the Port Clyde General Store by opening part of the upstairs as a chandlery, apothecary and dry goods market. Bean said customers will also be able to find toys, kitchenware and books in the new space.

Tags like these, identifying the wharves where lobsters are landed, are put on every lobster Linda Bean sells.

She is also working to establish a strong regional brand, tagging each of her lobsters with a hanging label that identifies the product as either a Port Clyde, Tenants Harbor or Vinalhaven lobster, depending on the wharf where it was landed.

"If we can find creative new markets we should do well," she said, adding that her goal is to bring more money to the coastal and island communities of Knox County.

"The ones who succeed in this big sea change are the ones who are willing to do extra," she said of those at all levels of the lobster industry.

FMI

Dick Martin's Great Outdoors: Battle boredom by planning vacation now

2009-04-05T10:29:00.001-04:00

Mansfield News Journal, OHIO 4/5/09

The next month or so is going to be tough for local outdoorsmen. There will be rain and snow, blustery winds, bitter cold days with little to do but look out the window and wish spring was really here.
Advertisement

There's one thing you can do during the coming days, and that's plan for a spring or summer vacation. I've traveled a good bit, and I'd like to make some suggestions.

Do I have a favorite spot?

....Maine has a lot going for it, especially the sea coast. I stayed at a bed and breakfast in Freeport, partly to visit the huge L.L. Bean outdoor store there, but did some bottom fishing, too. The B & B owner had lobster pots, which we pulled, and I was delighted to find them filled with colorful crabs, starfish, bright snails and lobsters. You can spend days here driving down little roads to small, picturesque towns on the coast, eating fresh sea food and wading tide pools seeking small creatures among the kelp....

FMI

What it takes to float their boats

2009-04-05T06:52:00.002-04:00

Bath Iron Works and Maine Maritime Museum showcase the state's seaside history and industry

Boston Globe April 5, 2009

BATH, Maine -- Boat building, sailmaking, fishing, and global trade are among the marine industries driving this state's economy and shaping its character. And nowhere is the land-sea connection more apparent than at Maine Maritime Museum and its neighbor, Bath Iron Works, where ships have been built for the US Navy since 1893.

A trolley tour of General Dynamics' Bath Iron Works is not to be missed. The one-hour guided tour begins at the museum, which this year increased the schedule to five times per week. Last year most tours sold out.

"After 9/11 we stopped all visits other than those directly related to our business with the US Navy, even veterans groups," Jim DeMartini, the communications manager, said later. "But it didn't feel good. A lot of us are Navy veterans and reservists and we're all proud of what we do. When the museum came to us about reinstating the tours, we agreed. . . . It gives us the opportunity to show the public what we do and how proud we are of the tremendous skill it takes to build a Navy warship."

FMI

Jim's comment: A fine blend of Maine tourism & industry! This should be a real summer draw.

Responsible Tourism Awards: Paul Theroux on why the awards matter and notes Maine Lobstering

2009-04-03T04:37:00.003-04:00

Telegraph Com United Kingdom, April 2, 2009

Nominations are now open for this year’s Responsible Tourism Awards, sponsored by Virgin Holidays and organised by responsibletravel.com. Paul Theroux, the veteran travel writer, explains why the awards matter, and singles out some countries that deserve to be among the winners

Why are you supporting The Virgin Holidays Responsible Tourism Awards?
In the past, awards were given for Best Meal, Best View, Most Grovelling Staff, Biggest Ballroom, or whatever. It's encouraging that someone is being rewarded for doing something that is ethically right or supporting a position that will help the planet. That's the greatest lesson of travel: it is a very small and easily bruised planet.

Of all the places you have been, which stand out for you as having maintained a strong sense of place – a distinctive local character as opposed to an identity assigned to them for tourism purposes?

I would single out Bali, the people of the Trobriand Islands, many of the villages in Vanuatu (New Hebrides), the remoter parts of Scotland and the lobstering communities on the coast of Maine. People who are proud of their traditions, who have faith, and who have retained their language and their special skills – agricultural or nautical, or artistic skills – survive as happy people and tend not to envy what others possess. I would say also that these people tend to be the most responsible in environmental terms.

FMI

America's Most Livable Cities-Portland Maine

2009-04-02T03:27:00.002-04:00

Forbes Magazine 4/1/09

Looking to for a better way of life? Start your search with these places.

Thanks to high marks in five key quality of life metrics, Portland tops this year's list of America's Most Livable Cities...

We eliminated areas with populations smaller than 500,000 and assigned points to the remaining metro regions across five data sets: Five-year income growth per household and cost of living from Moody's Economy.com, crime data and leisure index from Sperling's Best Places, and annual unemployment statistics from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

"There are less jobs to go around, but our main industry of tourism hasn't been affected much," says Perrin. "People are still coming to Portland."

FMI

U-Haul Ranks Washington and Maine as Top 2008 Growth States

2009-03-31T06:48:00.002-04:00

FoxBusiness March 31, 2008

For states with 5,000 - 20,000 families moving, Maine had the highest percentage for the second year in a row, with a growth of 16.28 percent in 2008...

Growth was then determined by calculating the percentage of inbound moves vs. outbound moves for each state.

U-Haul Top 8 U.S. Growth States*
  January - December 2008
  With 5,000 - 20,000 Families Moving
 
  RANK            STATE            %GROWTH
  1               MAINE            16.28%
  2            DELAWARE             7.47%
  3              KANSAS             6.20%
  4           MINNESOTA             3.83%
  5            NEBRASKA             2.55%
  6         MISSISSIPPI             2.33%
  7       WEST VIRGINIA             2.08%
  8          NEW MEXICO             1.23%

FMI

Jim comment: This is INBOUND moves...New customers!

Denny’s Makes Grand Slam Business Move

2009-03-31T04:19:00.002-04:00

Companies both big and small are looking to Denny's, which offered a free breakfast to all customers last month, for guidance on winning back patrons during uncertain times.

... in 1,500 restaurants all across the country (including Maine), 2 million people waited patiently for a free Grand Slam breakfast...

Denny’s, which gambled $5 million on its Grand Slam Giveaway, has already made it all back. They’ll do it again next month - this time with a new twist. Those who ate free before are encouraged to pay the good deed forward: bring a friend in need and Denny’s will pick up their tab.

At a time when corporate greed still makes headlines, a little appreciate can go a long way.

Apparently, doing the right thing pays - in more ways than one.

FMI

Jim's comment: I saw this promo and wondered "How much did that cost?" Well this marketing worked great! A great example of giving back to your customers.

Maine Movie Wins Award in Cleveland

2009-03-30T05:47:00.000-04:00

Cleveland International Film Festival ends on high note

Cleveland.com March 30, 2009

The 33rd Cleveland International Film Festival wrapped up Sunday night by posting its best attendance ever: more than 66,500 fans. It beat the record set in 2007 by nearly 14,000.

The $5,000 Greg Gund Memorial Standing Up Competition award went to Aron Gaudet for his documentary "The Way We Get By," about senior troop-greeters in Maine.

FMI

Jim's comment: Congrats to Aron... Watch for this Maine film at your local theaters!

Coastal Living Magazine Mentions Maine in Top Tens!

2009-03-30T05:28:00.002-04:00

After seeing a note about Maine from Tuscaloosa, Alabama, from Coastal Living Magazine I just had to follow the link to the Mag. Here's what I found!

Coastal Living Magazine

Top 10 Staff Favorites

Our writers reveal their most memorable travel experiences.

SaraSara's
Blue Hill, Maine
This Downeast boutique carries everything from pink margarita flip-flops and funky clutches to this-must-be-heaven cotton nightgowns. Owner Sara B. Leighton turned her dream of opening a shop into a reality five years ago, and she makes everyone who steps through the door feel special. The words "You're Beautiful" are painted on dressing-room mirrors, and there's even a "huffy husband's chair" for the men. Also check out the new Castine location, overlooking the city dock; 207/374-2227 or sarasaras.com. ―Editorial Assistant Allen B. Bunting

Top 10 Seafood & Wine Festivals

These events combine two of our favorite things.

Harvest on the Harbor
Portland, Maine, October
A culinary hot spot, Portland proves the perfect locale for a weekend with top chefs and international wines. The festival will offer tastings, seminars, and dinners featuring local bounty. Highlights include tastings with caviar retailer Browne Trading Company, the "seafood supplier to the stars." Festivities conclude with a gala dinner by master chef David Pasternack; 207/775-2126, ext. 122, or harvestontheharbor.com.

Top 10 Artists Colonies

Share the creative spirit―and find a great memento―in these coastal havens.

Monhegan Island, Maine
No cars, paved roads, or streetlights mar the scenery on Monhegan Island. Perhaps that's why it has attracted artists for more than a century―there's beauty to capture at every turn. Plan to devote a day to visiting, because the island is accessible only by boat. (Ferries run from Port Clyde, Boothbay Harbor, and New Harbor.) A few galleries welcome visitors to browse through studios; monheganwelcome.com.

See the Light

Explore our favorite historic lighthouses from Maine to Oregon.

Popular Choice

Maine's official state quarter displays a schooner passing this structure―the Pemaquid Point Light. The tower, 38 feet tall, has been deemed Maine's "prettiest lighthouse."

FMI

Jim comment: Thanks to Coastal Living Magazine!

Ten coastal wildflower hikes for spring

2009-03-30T05:25:00.000-04:00

TuscaloosaNews.com

March 29, 2009

BIRMINGHAM; Springtime means wildflowers, and Coastal Living magazine’s April issue recommends

10 hikes along the coast where trails yield carpets of color as the weather warms up.

...The hikes are: ...

Deer Isle, Maine. A schooner runs lupine cruises and the annual lupine festival is June 19-21.

FMI

How Far Do You Market? How about Portland, (OREGON)?

2009-03-30T05:09:00.002-04:00

Know before you go: Energy Trust Better Living Show at Portland Expo Center (That's Portland, OREGON)

OregonLive.com March 29, 2009

... a Maine company called happygreenbee offers affordable, crazy-cute dresses, shorts and tops for kids in bright stripes and colors...

FMI

Jim's comment: Do you know where your customers are?

The Beat Goes On

2009-03-30T04:59:00.000-04:00

CBS Sunday Morning March 29, 2009

What do legendary drummer Buddy Rich, Charlie Watts of the Rolling Stones, and master chef Mario Batali have in common?

The tools of their trade.

Drumsticks of all kinds … along with pepper mills and rolling pins … are all made by Vic Firth at his factory in Newport, Maine.

Even today, in the midst of the recession, Vic Firth's factory turns out between 85,000 and 90,000 drumsticks a day!

That's 140 jobs in a part of the country where jobs are scarce and many factories have closed, or moved their operations to China.

And what is Firths' secret for success?

"The key word for me is persistence," he said. "Whatever you set out to do, you have to have a magnum passion for it, and you've got to work beyond what you ever dreamed you're gonna work to succeed at the level that you want to succeed at.

"Persistence, persistence, persistence!"

A lesson in stick-to-it-tive-ness.

FMI

Branding from a Maine company...

2009-03-29T05:41:00.002-04:00

You may imagine this scene here in Maine, however, this image is from:
LaFourche Parish, Louisiana!

Daily Comet, March 28

the Barataria-Terrebonne National Estuary Program’s four-day, 52-mile Paddle Bayou Lafourche trip...

Now that we’ve gotten the hang of the paddling, our Old Town canoe, a durable and venerable brand from a Maine company, cruises the bayou like a Cadillac.

And we’re learning more about our fellow paddlers. They come from Alabama, California, Florida, Illinois, Mexico, Missouri and less distant locales like New Orleans, among other places, and they range from novices, like us, to incredibly well-seasoned.

FMI

Jim's comment: A nice example of how the "Maine" brand extends our state across the country. Old Town's efforts help the entire Maine Tourism industry.

Plan a summer vacation for the family: head to Maine

2009-03-27T03:47:00.001-04:00

Boston-FamilyFriendly-Outdoor-Recreation-Examiner March 25, 2009

Family vacations are a part of every New England summer. Rent a beachfront house in Maine for a week or two and sink your toes in your own sand, before taking a dip in the frosty water.

By renting a house rather than hotel or motel room, you will have access to your own full-sized kitchen. The money you save on eating breakfast and dinner out can be used to enjoy other activities, like shoe shopping at Bass outlets or lunching on freshly steamed lobster and watching the kids try to open the claws.

FMI

Jim's comment: Another wonderful Boston based trip planner, guiding tourists to Maine

Saddleback buying Rangeley marina

2009-03-27T03:40:00.001-04:00

Morning Sentinal March 27, 2009

The owners of Saddleback ski mountain announced their lease-purchase of a 60-slip marina on Rangeley Lake...

The move is aimed at expanding interest in the resort beyond winter sports and to build relationships with homeowners in Oquossoc and Rangeley, said Warren Cook, general manager of Saddleback Maine.

Full-time and seasonal staff is expected to grow by about 15 percent and to stimulate job growth throughout Franklin County, Cook said.

He said business at Saddleback, which was facing potential closure in 2003, is up more than 20 percent in terms of paid visits and season passes.

FMI

1st lady gives Maine blanket to Irish

2009-03-25T06:04:00.001-04:00

Bangor Daily News March 25, 2009

NORTHPORT, Maine — When a delegation from the Republic of Ireland visited the White House last week they were presented with a shamrock-green Swans Island blanket made especially for Michelle Obama.

The 50-inch-by-70-inch throw of merino wool was presented by the first lady during the Irish delegation’s annual St. Patrick’s Day lunch with the president. The blanket was hand-woven at the knitting room and showroom of Swans Island, whose facilities are on U.S. Route 1 in Northport.

A 50-by-70-inch throw from Swans Island Blankets starts at $395.

Jim's comment: Swan's Island has done a suburb job of producing and marketing a superior product.

FMI

Stores offer freebies, perks to lure in shoppers; HOT DOG!

2009-03-25T05:23:00.002-04:00

Business Week March 24, 2009

In these tough economic times, what's a store to do to make sure it's still in business a year from now?

...When 200 customers crowded into Portland, Maine's Longfellow Books for a book launch party for a local author, co-owner Chris Bowe was thrilled that 100 copies of that author's books were sold; that more than made up for all the free hot dogs he gave away.

Bowe believes that developing a personal connection with his customers is good for business. That's why the shop sends out personalized birthday cards, which include a 25 percent discount certificate, and offer Longfellow Dollars, a rewards program that gives 6 percent back on every five items bought.

Ellen Murphy, a retired lawyer who recently moved to Portland from New York City, said even in a tough economy, she was willing to skip discounts at big chain stores in favor of local shops like Bowe's.

"I don't want to live in a Walmart world and I want to preserve neighborhood identity," she said.

Bowe's worried about that, too, but more pressingly he wants to be sure he can give health insurance to his employees.

"There's a sense of community here, a sense that we're in this recession together," Bowe said.

Jim's comment: Books sold, customer loyalty, and a free article in Business Week ! Thinking outside the box pays off in many ways.

FMI

America's Coolest Small Town - In our Backyard?

2009-03-24T06:02:00.001-04:00

WABI-TV March 23. 2009

A Maine town known for it's lobstering industry and once called Lime City is up for the award of America's Coolest Small Town. Got a guess? If you picked Rockland you're right.

You can vote for Rockland as your top pick by logging onto Budget Travel. Voting ends April 3

Jim's comments: If you haven't voted, VOTE. Every visitor to Rockland has to pass thru lot's of Maine to get there.

FMI

Tapped into a sweet success

2009-03-24T05:50:00.000-04:00

The sap is flowing, and the state's maple producers are hard at work collecting, boiling and bottling syrup.

Portland Press Herald March 22, 2009

Today, Maine Maple Sunday, he'll have an estimated 2,000 to 3,000 folks visit his place to taste his syrup, watch how it's made and generally enjoy a day on the farm.

It's also a marketing triumph for Maine's maple syrup producers, many of whom make syrup only as a hobby or side business.

The idea for Maine Maple Sunday came from a small group of maple producers who approached the Maine Department of Agriculture about helping to promote it, said Jane Aiudi, director of the Division of Market and Production Development for the department.

Jim's comments: Field of Dreams was a movie. People don't just come. This success reflects hard work at promoting a nice event! Well done.

FMI

Maine Wedding Business Brisk Despite Economy

2009-03-20T04:08:00.002-04:00

MPBN March 19, 2009

It seems Maine's popularity as a wedding destination hasn't waned in the weakening economy...She works mostly with brides who live out-of-state, and are hosting their weddings on the coast of Maine..
Maine is seen as a relatively inexpensive place to hold a wedding.

And while the general economy might be sour, the number of weddings is only expected to grow as the children of baby boomers reach their late twenties and thirties. Montgomery-Dunn also points out that Maine weddings are an important gateway for tourism.

"They're with their friends that are just visiting us for the first time -- they will come back to Maine because they fall in love with the state, they fall in love with the shops, with scenery, they want to come back here and it really is a boost to our economy."

FMI

Visitors are already searching....

2009-03-18T20:23:00.002-04:00

The Maine Coast Welcome Center web site is still under development, with a real rudimentary place holder up. And today I got a first inquiry, from Hesperia, CA. with a nice request "Can you send me a booklet of your coastal area. We are thinking of visiting your state and we need whatever information we can receive."

From California to Maine...Visitors are already searching....

Free Advertising From Chicago Sun Times

2009-03-18T05:44:00.004-04:00

Be a Party to the Best Fests

Chicago Sun Times March 18, 2009

new book Party Across America! 101 of the Greatest Festivals, Sporting Events, and Celebrations in the U.S.

This bash-lovers' bible details a slew of shindigs spread over 47 states...

The book includes parties for every month of the year and covers a variety of celebrations, from music-based blowouts (South by Southwest, Bonnaroo) to sporting events (Daytona 500, Kentucky Derby) and food festivals (Taste of Chicago, Maine Lobster Festival).

(Jim note: the Chicago metropolitan area has a population of more than 9.5 million people)

What do these hotels know about the economy?

2009-03-18T05:34:00.002-04:00

We see a new Comfort Inn in Wilton, a new Hampton Inn in Presque Isle, plans for Augusta, Bath, & Ellsworth....

Developer 'wants to go' on Maine Wharf hotel

Portland Press Herald March 18, 2009

The $40 million hotel would include a restaurant and banquet facilities. It would be the largest new development on the city's core waterfront in decades. "Eric wants to go. He really believes the opportunity, for financing and everything, is now."

FMI

If you have the right product, customers will come & spend

2009-03-18T05:19:00.002-04:00

Two-day auction of high-end firearms draws $11.4M at Fairfield auction

...some had traveled thousands of miles...Collector Robert Ferrell traveled from Austin, Texas, Dick Burdick made his way to Fairfield from Ventura, Calif.

On Tuesday, in the rarefied air of the James D. Julia Inc. auction house that has hosted the most lucrative firearms auction in history, this is what “bargain” meant: ...that 850 winning bid? That’s not $850. Try $850,000...

“One would have to say, ‘Why would he do a thing like that in a terrible economy?’” Lane said, explaining that the current economic woes help reinforce his theory that he should invest his money in something he knows: guns."

The two-day auction of high-end firearms, including the Murphy pieces, drew nearly $11.4 million.

FMI

10 years and Still Fresh

2009-03-15T06:42:00.008-04:00

Jeff Drummond of Bridge St. Tavern is celebrating 10 years in business this year! So how does he keep his business fresh? By listening to his customers. For example, his renovation last year included a "Smoker's Lounge" which accommodates smoker's and non-smoker's alike. Instead of forcing them outside, he built a custom lounge with special air handling so smokers can still enjoy the music and atmosphere of the Tavern, with piped in music and video, while the non-smokers aren't affected. Music follows the customers tastes; live classic rock bands on the weekends with a larger dance floor and jam sessions for performers looking for a stage. Happy Hour specials include what his customers want, not just some promo. Jeff actively provides Taxi service to get his customers home safely and return again! The lastest way to attract new customers is with Myspace. Bridge Street Tavern has been there ever since his customers suggested it.

So listen to your customers. They may keep you around for Ten Years as well. Congratulations to Jeff at Bridge Street Tavern for 10 years, well done.

Jeff supplements his business with marketing in our local hotel directories to attract hotel guests visiting the area.

News From Away, we are fortunate to be "Vacationland"

2009-03-15T05:01:00.004-04:00

Silver Airstream trailers make for happier campers at selected KOAs
Dallas Morning News, March 15, 2009
Kampgrounds of America Inc. and Airstream Inc. are placing 25 of the company's most popular model trailers at KOA campgrounds in Las Vegas; Bar Harbor, Maine; and Key West, Fla., letting travelers rent the recognizable trailers like hotel rooms. (And the summer rate these folks pay..$165.39/night! )

Jim's notes: This is from a Dallas, TX newspaper. According to the U.S. Census July 2007 estimates, the metropolitan area has a population of 6.1 million.

Patti & I worked for KOA a while back... "camper" demographics would surprise you. Which "niches" do you market?

FMI

Budget bonanza
Feel free to roam this itinerary without pinching pennies - or even counting them

Boston Globe March 15, 2009

Here are five places to go and things to do in Maine that should get the mental gears turning on how to put more "free" into your vacation. Art walk, ...Perham's, ...Johnny's Selected Seeds, ...St. Saviour's Episcopal Church, ...Bar Harbor Whale Museum, ...MDI Biological Laboratory.

Jim's notes: Boston's combined statistical area (CSA) which includes the metro areas of Providence, Rhode Island and Worcester, Massachusetts.CSA is the nation's fifth largest and includes over 7.4 million people.

FMI

News Notes This Week March 13th

2009-03-14T05:04:00.005-04:00

BIG LIFT FOR SKI INDUSTRY Maine resort owners say ample snowfall attracts business despite grim economy

Kennebec Journal 3/15/09

At Saddleback Mountain, year-to-date visits are up 21 percent from last year and are expected to peak at 75,000, and season pass sales are 23 percent higher than last season...
There is a spirit here that has infected our staff and our guests, even in our tough economy...

Skier visits at Sugarloaf have remained fairly strong this season despite the current economic climate. We have recorded strong numbers during our midweek periods, and our season pass sales were actually up this year over last...

At Saddleback, Cook noted a big jump in sales of condominiums and private house lots.

FMI

Maine Ski Resorts Enjoying Long Season

MPBN 3/13/09

Maine's likely to have the longest skiing season east of the Mississippi for the second year in a row.
Maine Ski Association Director Greg Sweetser says the recent time change is also giving the business a boost. He says people love skiing in the sunshine this time of year.

FMI

As Many Businesses Shrink -- Some Grow

WCHS 3/13/09

The recession has hit Maine hard the past few weeks, with more shutdowns, furloughs and layoffs. But in Harpswell, at the Great Island Boatyard, they have work to do and they aren't going to let a recession and a fire slow them down.

It has been a tough winter here along the water. But hard work trumps hard times, and they will be ready for summer.

FMI

Visitor Center Traffic for Feb. UP 10%

2009-03-12T05:34:00.000-04:00

The numbers are out for February & the suberb snow season has brought the overall traffic figures up 10%.

Other highlights from the Maine Office of Tourism's newsletter:

2009 Sixth annual AAA travel marketplace...attendees poured into the show, shattering last year’s record by a solid 8%...people are still planning on traveling this summer and that they are aggressively looking for bargains and specials. The successful properties will be those that offer those enticements, or attractive add-ons for their guests.

FMI

New Businesses in our Hotel Directories

2009-03-11T19:20:00.000-04:00

Time to get caught up with some new advertisers in our Hotel Directories:

Augusta;
Shane & Suparinya are the new owner's of Sweet Chilli's Thai Restaurant. This location has served Thai food for a while, however, Shane & Suparinya have spent the past few months fine tuning the menu and upgrading the decor. So focusing on existing customers is paying off with solid business and now their marketing is expanding to the summer tourists.

Downtown, Patrick Quigg of Riverfront BBQ is seeing a solid winter, and just opened The Gin Mill. This pub has a warm, speakeasy decor, with a huge selection of beers, wine, and handcrafted cocktails. Watch for the GRAND OPENING.

Across the street at Club on the Riverfront, Mark Coulomb is providing live music in a lively club setting are making the Augusta Riverfront section a great attraction to area visitors.

Waterville has a great new mexican restaurant, Cancun. Hector guarantees an authentic Mexican experience. Check out the photos on his web site! Call ahead for Cinco de May, it will be packed!

Ellsworth has a new Quiznos providing delivery to the hotels. This was a niche not being filled and they hopped right on it, getting the Quiznos menu in front of the guests with our in-room TV Channel Cards. Quiznos did their research at the Brewer location, expanded to Ellsworth and are looking for another great Maine location in "your" town. So it's not just the big chains seeing growth in Maine. It's also other savvy Maine entreprenuers.

RSS Feed

2009-03-11T18:29:00.000-04:00

Jorge of www.quantumcorral.net suggested adding an RSS feed to the blog, for ease of reading updates, so here it is, on the upper left of this page!

Jorge works with coordinating the Downtown Arts section for the Bangor Hotel Directories.

Marketing Maine

2009-03-10T19:58:00.000-04:00

Maine needs marketing to get out of the doldrums
Portland Press Herald March 8, 2009

Because of our manufacturing heritage – make a good product and let someone else sell it – Maine does not have a tradition of or a feel for marketing. But marketing is just what we need. People might want to come to Maine. OK, let's find out more about them. Let's build a relationship.

FMI

Stories for Week of March 4th

2009-03-08T08:40:00.000-04:00

Katahdin mill to recall some of 140 idled paper workers.

Bangor Daily News March 7, 2009

The majority of about 140 Katahdin Paper Co. LLC workers furloughed last month due to declining orders will be back at work Monday, a company spokesman said Friday.

FMI

(I saw this on the TV news earlier this week, and began searching for a internet story about it. However, I couldn't... did find lots of news about other layoffs. I guess good news doesn't sell? Jim)

$12M, 5-story hotel eyed for Bar Harbor

A major hotel and resort property company has submitted an application to planning officials to build a $12 million hotel overlooking the harbor on West Street.

Last month, Ocean Properties decided against pursuing a $100 million project in Hollywood, Fla., due to “current economic conditions,” the Portland Press Herald has reported.

He acknowledged that although now does not seem to be a prime time to pursue a $12 million project, Ocean Properties has always done well in Bar Harbor and, based upon bookings for the coming season, expects to continue doing well.

“We're pretty confident in Bar Harbor as a destination,” he said. “Our reservations for this coming summer are very encouraging.”

FMI

Our writers win travel awards

Winnepeg Free Press March 8, 2009

Free Press associate editor and business editor Steve Pona has won the North American Travel Journalists Association's grand prize for his travel section story...prize options included a vacation at a Mexican resort, a cruise off the coast of Maine, or a stay at a Florida vacation home.

(The North American Travel Journalists Association considers Maine a prize location. Jim)

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Maine's extremes test mush teams' mettle

2009-03-05T18:20:00.000-05:00

Maine's extremes test mush teams' mettle

Boston Globe March 4, 2009

To be in the company of these dogs - they're my best friends," said Matt Carstens, a New Hampshire musher. "I love them. We live for it."

So does Fort Kent. The population of this little town doubled to 8,000 Saturday, the day the race started. It may be one of the only places on earth where these mushers are given occasional rock star status.

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First Week of March

2009-03-04T14:25:00.000-05:00

Portland Museum Of Art Sets Record

WCHS6.com March 4, 2009
The museum drew a record 17,839 visitors in February thanks to the popularity of its exhibition "Backstage Pass: Rock & Roll Photography. Chief Curator Tom Denenberg says the exhibition "exceeded all of our expectations."

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Hollywood Needs Help To Film In Maine

WCHS6.com March 4, 2009
The film crew working on Stephen King's "Bag Of Bones" wants to make the movie where the book originated. The problem is, Maine doesn't offer tax incentives to film crews as a number of other states do.

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Observations for Jan-Feb 2009

2009-03-04T08:05:00.000-05:00

Observations on Maine Tourism.

We hear too much bad news about the economy. I work in the Maine Tourism Industry and this didn't match what I hear "on the street", so I started a search on Google for "Maine Tourism" and got some positive stories. We also talk to lots of people across the state as Patti & I sell ads for Hotel Directories, RideMaine, & CruiseMaine. Here are some we would like to share with you.

Jim LeClair (207-415-5646)

Conversations with Local Business People (Week of Feb 25th):

Rocell and Thomas Marcellino Of Calzolaio Pasta Company in Wilton. "We opened three weeks ago and are providing quality Italian food to our customers. We are looking forward to a strong summer and we're partnering closely with area hotels to search for niche markets. We've placed adjacent ads to Wilson Lake Inn and the Comfort Inn, all in Wilton!

Tina Carval of Pat's Pizza; Hampden. "I've worked hard to adjust my menu to please my local customers. Adding "gluton-free" dough has been a hit. My sales are up over last year. Now I'm targeting new tourist customers with In-Room Hotel Directories."

Conversations with Local Business People (Week of Feb 18th):

Park Morrison of Owl's Head Transportation Museum: "We were wary of expectations at our recent Winterfest. However, we were pleasantly surprised by the attendance. Also, our membership program is doing well."

Oscar Verest of the Camden Harbour Inn: "After a strong December, we were concerned about the upcoming season. To our surprise is that we are exceeding last year's bookings for January and February with strong summer reservations."

Rich & Regina Pierson of Beach Inspirations in Lincolnville: "Winter is slow for retail. It gives us time to get ready for summer. Our sales last year were above projections. We're hearing good bookings from the area Inns and are looking forward to a strong summer."

Norm of China Dinah: "I served over 700 meals on Valentine's Day. I don't feel the recession here, business is great!"

Warren Buffet's Annual Letter to Shareholders
Wall St. Journal March 2, 2009

"The U.S. - and much of the world - became trapped in a vicious negative-feedback
cycle. Fear led to business contraction, and that in turn led to even greater fear."

"Amid this bad news, however, never forget that our country has faced far worse travails in the past. In the 20th Century alone, we dealt with two great wars (one of which we initially appeared to be losing); a dozen or so panics and recessions; virulent inflation that led to a 21 1/2% prime rate in 1980; and the Great Depression of the 1930s, when unemployment ranged between 15% and 25% for many years. America has had no shortage of challenges."

"Without fail, however, we've overcome them."

http://online.wsj.com/public/resources/documents/WSJ-20090228-berkshireletter.pdf

More than 900 attend Lincoln Sno-Cross
Bangor Daily News March 1, 2009

More than 100 snowmobiles were parked in the clubhouse field as sledders used the races as an excuse to come by snowmobile from hundreds of miles around and travel the Lincoln Lakes region's extensive trail system. Others, like Heather Watson of Glenburn, came to the event for the family fun it represents.

http://www.bangordailynews.com/detail/100614.html

Ski season continues to improve in the Northeast
Seacoastonline.com February 27, 2009

February and March are traditionally the snowiest months and there's lots of snow on the ground already. It's been a great season so far and it's only getting better.

Hear that soft hum? That's lifts turning, gliding skiers and riders up hills so they can slide down with big smiles on their faces. Every lift in the Northeast is turning right now.

http://www.seacoastonline.com/articles/20090227-SPORTS-902270348

What the Stimulus Bill Means for High-Speed Rail
Wired February 25, 2009

Expanding the north-south routes of the East Coast will create a rail network stretching from Portland, Maine, to New Orleans and Houston. (How many tourists will be able to access Maine via this plan?)

(Combine this with train service expanding to Brunswick and later to Rockland...)

http://blog.wired.com/cars/2009/02/what-the-stimul.html

Old Town mill reopens with new name 170 going back to work at retooled pulp processing facility
Bangor Daily News; 2/25/09

The reinvention of the traditional paper mill into a combined pulp and biofuel plant represents "true American manufacturing at its best.

http://www.bangornews.com/detail/100229.html

Hampton Inn
Augusta hotel project up for review. Freeport-based Maine Course Hospitality Group proposes to build a Hampton Inn with 87 rooms...Kennebec Journal Feb. 09
(This would add to the Hampton Inn opening this summer in Presque Isle, and projects planned for Bath & Ellsworth. The Hampton Inn planning team has a positive look of their business prospects in Maine. Jim)

http://kennebecjournal.mainetoday.com/news/local/5928215.html

Fun, funding and fish

The popular two-day ice fishing tournament hooks thousands of people and many cancer donations.
Portland Press Herald; February 22, 2009

Laderbush said the dip raised about $55,000 this year, with about 130 participants jumping into the water near Raymond Beach. He said he expects late donations to push the total closer to $60,000, more than anticipated given the state of the economy.

"I couldn't believe it. I was really worried this year," Laderbush said.

http://pressherald.mainetoday.com/story.php?id=240938&ac=PHnws

Maine tourism weathering the economic chill

Outdoor enthusiasts appear to be staying close to home, giving Maine businesses a lift.
Portland Press Herald; February 22, 2009

"Flat is the new up in tourism. I'm ecstatic about that," said Pat Eltman, director of the Maine Office of Tourism. "We're doing good."

The spectrum of winter tourism and recreation industries - cross-country skiing, ice fishing and snowmobiling among them - are reporting a strong season, she said.

http://pressherald.mainetoday.com/story.php?id=240972&ac=PHnws

Net income; Tournament time still an economic boon to Bangor area
Bangor Daily News; February 20, 2009

Recession proof? Maybe not, but by most indicators the annual high school basketball tournament at the Bangor Auditorium has seen no sign of slowdown this week, and the beneficiaries have been various city hotels, restaurants and retailers.

Inside the auditorium, patrons have been spending, too. Bass Park Director Mike Dyer said concession sales have been up about 15 percent so far.

http://www.bangordailynews.com/detail/99963.html

Coping with the recession (Sometimes you have to read past the headline...)
Herald Gazette; February 16, 2009

At Point Lookout in Northport, the former MBNA facility with gym and cabins built on the slopes of Ducktrap Mountain, reservations are picking up.

(Mark) Blair said September and October were the company's strongest months, and for July to December 2009, Point Lookout is already 80 percent booked for events, such as conferences, weddings and family reunions.

"May and June are filling," he said.

http://www.villagesoup.com//Business/story.cfm?storyid=146404

Customers are sparing no expense
Despite economy, many areas on pace for record seasons
Boston Globe; February 12, 2009

Happy days are here again, right? Deep in the winter of our economic discontent, people are skiing and riding as much as ever.

Even remote destination areas in New England are enjoying the spike in business. According to Andy Shepard, president of the Maine Winter Sports Center, areas such as Black Mountain in Rumford and Big Rock in Mars Hill have been doing record business.

"I think it's because of the better value we provide," said Shepard. "But we've had record day-trip ticket sales and the seasonal pass sales are 20 percent ahead of last year."

http://www.boston.com/sports/other_sports/skiing/articles/2009/02/12/customers_are_sparing_no_expense

Borders crumble at snowsled fest
Bangor Daily News; February 8, 2009

More than 300 riders had registered for the 13th annual International Snowmobile Festival by Saturday morning...

"A lot of the people who came are ones who come every year," Ouellette said. "This year we expanded our advertising, [and] it must have worked because we've seen people from as far away as South Carolina."

http://www.bangordailynews.com/detail/99082.html

Toboggan races a carnival of wacky garb and wild rides
Bangor Daily News; February 8, 2009

About 370 toboggan-racing teams from as far away as California - and with names such as Lil' Deuce Moose and the Beer Coasters - participated in the two-day affair. The races bring thousands of people to the ski mountain and have become an economic engine of the area's winter economy.

(LL Bean) Freeport mail-order giant said it was sold out of toboggans until next fall.

http://www.bangordailynews.com/detail/99084.html

Here are the official numbers for January.