Not too long ago, I got a good lesson in hydration and the impacts of high temperatures in a somewhat embarrassing, but educational way. This week’s heat wave reminded me of how easy it is to lose sight of how ill-equipped we humans can be to deal with the heat — particularly when we aren’t […]
Times Record Community
Remembering a Civil War hero of the 20th Maine — no, not that one
One of the least-remembered heroes in Maine history is a man who “participated in many of the most severe battles” of the American Civil War, then returned home to become a commercial success and popular political leader. This hero was a man from Topsham. Holman Staples Melcher was born in Topsham to James and Nancy […]
How to improve our climate with sustainable biochar
Biochar can enhance soil health, filter wastewater, improve thermal insulation, sequester carbon and more. Advantageous though it may be, biochar remains something of a well-kept secret. Here, let’s consider just one of biochar’s many virtues: its potential impact on the health of our climate. Biochar is a charcoal-like material produced from organic matter during a […]
Maine should support renters by instituting pro-pet policies
NOTE: This week, Midcoast Humane is introducing a guest writer, Laurel Auth, a social work intern at Midcoast Humane. Laurel is a graduate student at the University of New England, spending half a year with us. We asked her to share her experiences interacting with those who need Midcoast Humane’s services and how our services […]
Perfect weather day makes for serene kayaking on Stevens Pond in Liberty
Over the past few years, my wife, Nancy, and I have explored some of central Maine’s finest small ponds and lakes in kayaks. We’ve found them to be an entertaining alternative to sea kayaking on the ocean and whitewater paddling in rivers and streams. While sea kayaking offers the challenges of open water navigation coupled […]
Unlocking Maine’s tiny wonders with your smartphone camera
Maine in the summer isn’t just about lobsters and lighthouses. If you’ve got a smartphone, you’re holding the key to a hidden world of miniature beauty! From vibrant wildflowers to delicate butterfly wings and intricate patterns in nature, the Pine Tree State explodes with tiny wonders just waiting for their close-up. Macro photography — getting […]
Topsham church appoints new interim minister
The United Baptist Church of Topsham has named the Rev. H. Kenneth “Ken” Dutille, Jr. as its interim minister. He’ll take over the role starting on June 29. Rev. Dutille is a retired ordained minister affiliated with the American Baptist Churches of Maine and the American Baptist Churches USA. He has served the communities of […]
Topsham church appoints new interim minister
The United Baptist Church of Topsham has named the Rev. H. Kenneth “Ken” Dutille, Jr. as its interim minister. He’ll take over the role starting on June 29. Rev. Dutille is a retired ordained minister affiliated with the American Baptist Churches of Maine and the American Baptist Churches USA. He has served the communities of […]
Chamber of commerce welcomes more businesses to Midcoast
Today, I want to highlight some of the businesses and organizations who have newly opened or expanded thus far in 2025. For a new business, breaking through can be tough (even tougher if the Majority Report of LD 1822 passes the State Legislature instead of the Minority report that came out of committee, which is […]
A look back at Brunswick’s storied Hotel Eagle
One of Maine’s most popular destinations, in the 20th century, had modest beginnings which sprang into a true and enduring legend. And that destination was located right in the heart of downtown Brunswick. Fred J. Harrigan first opened his small “lunchroom” in 1902, “at the head of Middle Street,” where Hannaford stands today. It was […]