Maine Apple Sunday

Clare Milton • September 1, 2023

This year, September brings together an end to a very odd season for apple farmers. Spring brought cold rainy days and chilly nights, which slowed the early growth of the apples. Thankfully, July and August finally brought warmer sunny days that helped the apples to mature on time.


Most orchards are currently open, or will be, as of Labor Day weekend. I am told the apples are bountiful and juicy. The early offerings will include Vikings, Macouns, Paula Reds and Jersey Macs. Check your orchard’s Facebook page to see which apples are currently ready for picking.


September 17th, Maine Apple Sunday will fall during the peak picking times. A lot of orchards offer tractor rides deep into the beauty of the orchards. Maine families enjoy weekend outings. The opportunity to stroll through the rows of old growth apple trees invites the opportunity to hear the birds singing and the kiddos pointing out the best sun ripened Early Macs and Honey Crisps, Cortland and even Milton apples.


You know the old saying “An apple a day keeps the doctor away!” Doctors and nutritionists agree that is really true. They encourage us to pack them for a pick-me-up healthy treat. You’ll eat and bake them into pies, apple crisps, and one of my favorites, a warm baked apple with a little brown sugar inside with whipped cream. Yum! Making applesauce is a fun family project. Homemade applesauce is a real Maine treat. Fresh pressed apple cider can be bought at the orchards and grocery stores throughout our state. The individual flavors of each apple brand can be tasted in the cider. Warm mulled apple cider with a cinnamon stick as a stirrer is always a fall favorite after an afternoon of apple and pumpkin picking at your local orchards and farm stands.


Mainers are blessed to share the bounty of one of our state’s healthiest treats. If you store them in a cool dry place they will last throughout the winter. This year I hope you will enjoy the pleasures that local Maine orchards bring to our families and visit multiple area farms.


What About Maine? and these local apple growers are participating together to give away five $25 gift cards for our September contest: The Apple Farm, Bailey’s Orchards, Lemieux’s Orchard, Greenwood Orchards and Kents Hill Orchard. Go to www.WhatAboutMaine.com and answer at least one question, give us your name and phone number, and you’ll be entered to win a real Maine apple picking experience that will last far into the season!


Most orchards are open daily. So pick a time and experience the crisp air, sunny days and the warm friendly hospitality that Maine Apple Growers have to offer.

By Clare Milton November 3, 2025
Celebrate, Connect, and Shop Local This Holiday Season with the Mid-Maine Chamber! There’s no slowing down for the Mid-Maine Chamber of Commerce this holiday season! As we continue our mission to help local businesses grow and thrive, we’re rolling out an exciting lineup of events and opportunities to connect, learn, and celebrate all things Mid-Maine. From networking breakfasts to leadership lunches—and a day dedicated to shopping small—there’s something for everyone to enjoy this November and December. Rise & Shine: Business Breakfast Series Start your morning right with the Chamber’s Business Breakfast Series, held from 7:15 to 9 a.m. at Best Western Plus in Waterville. You’ll enjoy great speakers, fresh coffee, friendly networking, and maybe even a door prize or two. Visit www.midmainechamber.com for the full lineup and to reserve your seat—these breakfasts fill up fast! Lunch & Leadership On Thursday, November 14 (11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.), join us for a Leadership Luncheon featuring Churchill Elangwe-Preston, owner of Mbingo Mountain Coffee. Come be inspired by his entrepreneurial journey while enjoying a delicious meal at Amici’s Cucina on Main Street in Waterville. Register online at www.midmainechamber.com -you won’t want to miss this conversation! Meet the Reps: Your Voice Matters Ever wonder what’s happening behind the scenes in Augusta or right here in your town? Join us for our final Meet the Reps event of the year, Tuesday, December 9 (5:30–7 p.m.), at Bricks Co-Working Space in the Hathaway Creative Center, Waterville. Co-hosted with the Maine State Chamber, this free event gives you the chance to chat directly with your local legislators and hear the latest updates on legislative challenges. Light refreshments and beverages will be provided—just email cindy@midmainechamber.com to let us know you’re coming! Business After Hours Mark your calendars for Wednesday, December 17, when Waterville Elks Lodge #905 hosts our final Business After Hours of the year (5:30–7 p.m.). Bring your business cards, meet fellow professionals, and wrap up the year with great food, drinks, and door prizes galore. No fee, no registration, just show up and enjoy! Shop Small, Save Big – Mid-Maine Style! Small businesses are the heart of our community— and this season, we’re showing them some love with Shop Small Saturday Mid-Maine on November 29! It’s more than just a shopping day—it’s a celebration of the hardworking local business owners who pour their passion into our community every single day. These are the same businesses that sponsor our Little League teams, donate to local fundraisers, and create the vibrant downtowns we all love. When you shop small, you’re helping to keep those dollars right here at home, strengthening our local economy and supporting the people who support us all year long. Participating shops will feature special coupons, giveaways, and your chance to win a $100 Chamber Gift Certificate—redeemable at more than 180 area businesses! You’ll even catch Mix 107.9 broadcasting live throughout the region, bringing the excitement straight to your favorite local storefronts. So grab your friends, your family, and your holiday spirit, and make a big difference by shopping small this season. Your purchases may seem small—but together, they make a huge impact. Can’t make it on November 29? You can still shop local by gifting Mid-Maine Chamber Gift Certificates—the perfect one-size-fits-all present and a great way to keep your holiday spending right here in our community. Find all the details at www.midmainechamber.com . Save the Dates: Festival of Trees Get ready for one of the region’s most beloved holiday traditions—the Festival of Trees at the Waterville Elks Banquet Center (76 Industrial Rd.) November 21–23 & November 28–30 Stroll through a magical forest of over 50 beautifully decorated trees, enter to win your favorite, and take part in daily 50/50 drawings—with chances to win up to $10,000! It’s fun for the whole family and a wonderful way to get into the holiday spirit. To volunteer or learn more, visit www.festivaloftreesmaine.net. The holidays in Mid-Maine are all about connection, community, and celebration—so join us at these fantastic Chamber events and make this season one to remember!
By Clare Milton November 3, 2025
“A Man on a Mission” That’s how you’d describe Spenser Ouellette — a hands-on entrepreneur determined to shape the future and deliver first-class service to his customers and the communities he serves. A Small-Town Start Spenser grew up in Van Buren, Maine, where he learned early on that if something needed doing, you figured it out yourself. That small-town upbringing built a foundation of independence, hard work, and problem-solving that continues to define his career today. After earning his Bachelor’s degree in Business from the University of Maine at Fort Kent in 2009, Spenser began his career as an auditor, gaining valuable experience in finance, management, and operations. Ambitious and goal-driven, he simultaneously pursued his Master’s in Business Administration at Thomas College, attending night classes while working full time. It was a demanding balance, but one that prepared him for a life of entrepreneurship. The Entrepreneurial Leap In 2012, Spenser took his first major step into business ownership by purchasing Burger Boy, a beloved seasonal restaurant in Caribou, Maine. Under his leadership, the local favorite thrived for seven successful seasons before he sold it in 2020, ready to take on new challenges. Never one to stand still, Spenser launched Pizza Degree in 2015, a fast-style pizza concept with locations in Augusta and Waterville. The innovative idea quickly earned a loyal following with its fresh ingredients and quick-serve approach. In 2019, after four successful years, Spenser decided to move on from the restaurant industry to focus on new ventures and real estate development. That same entrepreneurial drive led him to explore franchising. In 2020, he purchased a five-unit hair salon franchise, successfully operating and growing the business before being bought out by a larger franchisee owner — another successful chapter in his diverse career. Building a Real Estate Portfolio From 2012 through 2024, Spenser focused his energy on real estate acquisitions, purchasing over 100 multi-family units throughout Northern & Central Maine. What began as a single four-unit apartment building in Augusta had grown into an impressive portfolio over 100+ rental units, providing quality housing while strengthening the local economy. Spenser lives in Oakland with his wife, their 11-year-old son Mason, and their beloved Goldendoodle, Tilly. Known affectionately as “the good girl,” Tilly is part of the family business too — she often steals the spotlight during photo ops for the Doggy Wash at the Gardiner location. Whether in real estate, restaurants, or car washes, Spenser’s mission remains the same: to create opportunity, invest locally, and build businesses that serve people well. Mechanically inclined and unafraid of hard work, Spenser takes pride in being hands-on. “I’ve got a great crew,” he says. “They’re willing to do whatevers needed every day — it makes every day an adventure.” A New Kind of Clean In 2021, Spenser expanded his entrepreneurial reach by purchasing the Purple Cow Car Wash & Laundromat at 10 Skowhegan Road, right next to the Purple Cow Restaurant. Determined to modernize and elevate the experience, he installed new washers and dryers, repaved the parking lot, and upgraded the car wash equipment. Then came a defining move — keeping both the car wash and laundromat open 24/7, the only facilities of their kind in Central Maine. This customer-first approach gave people the freedom to clean on their schedule. Always innovating, Spenser introduced Touchless Car Wash technology, providing a superior, paint-safe cleaning experience. The upgrade was an instant hit, and North Country Car Wash soon expanded to Winthrop, Gardiner, and Waterville, each location featuring its own touchless bay. “Customers don’t mind paying a little extra,” Spenser says. “They know their cars are being protected.” Looking Ahead When asked what’s next, Spenser grins knowingly. “2026 will bring some surprises!” North Country Car Wash also believes in giving back. The company partners with What About Maineto sponsor two deluxe car washes per location every month. Winners often rave about their experience — and many hope to hear those magic words when the phone rings: “You’ve won a North Country Car Wash code!” It’s easy to enter — just visit WhatAboutMaine.com, answer a few simple questions, and keep your phone handy. You could soon “Enjoy a car wash on Spenser!”
By Clare Milton October 6, 2025
Have you watched American Ninja Warrior and seen contestants flying through the air and leaping from one object to another? Their courage and strength are no longer realities that are far away from Central Mainers. That’s right! Jesse “Flex” Labreck, a Central Maine native and “Ninja Warrior” herself, has partnered with the Alfond Youth & Community Center (AYCC) to bring everyone the joy and thrill of competing on a Ninja Course themselves. Jesse Labreck is one of American Ninja Warrior’s top women champions. She grew up in Oakland, Maine, graduated from Messalonskee High School in 2008, and the University of Maine Orono in 2012. She continues to hold several high school and college track and field records to this day! After graduating college, Jesse was looking for a way to continue her athletic training and competitive drive. She met Maine native, Jon Alexis Jr. known as “Jon the Giant,” who encouraged her to try out for American Ninja Warrior competitions. After trying it for herself, she fell in love, and found her success. Jesse met her husband, Chris DiGangi, and together they became coaches. Over the years Chris had built his own “Ninja Sport Network” business. In 2024 while living in the Chicago area, they welcomed their son, Luca, and yearned to be closer to home. All the while back home, the AYCC was breaking ground on how to bring the foundation of “Personal Fitness Achievement” for all to the forefront of their growing brand. That’s when the AYCC began looking at new ways to add a ninja adventure zone for kids of all ages. This was achievable with a two-story climbing wall and ninja obstacle course that was designed to build strength in fun ways. It was Patrick Guerette’s (COO) keen eye for detail that started the expansion at 126 North Street. In August 2024, the AYCC held their grand opening for the NinjAdventure Zone. In attendance were Maine native Jonathan Alexis Sr., also from American Ninja Warrior, along with Jesse, who had been cheering the project all along. Shortly after attending, she received a phone call and was offered the opportunity to move back home while continuing to reach her goal of training the next generation of ninja kids! The whole AYCC family welcomed her leadership in the NinjAdventure Zone experience! She has used her creative skills to design programs for all age groups, including the first pre-school ninja class. AYCC after school youth participants have embraced their time in the gym and some have continued to take extra classes. There is a ninja gym in Portland, though sadly not run by an American Ninja Warrior. This has drawn families from the greater Portland and Bangor areas, as well as across Central Maine, to enjoy the AYCC’s NinjAdventure Zone classes. Jesse conducts ninja classes each week and is enjoying getting to know her students. She helps them develop the skills needed to compete at higher levels and problem solve life’s “in the moment” challenges! Classes are offered to different age groups including teen time and adult open gym. She is hoping to offer competitions outside of the AYCC family of athletes in the future. The ninja gym is also available for birthday parties, family fun afternoons, business retreats, and schools for team building skills. The AYCC NinjAdventure Zone experience will create uplifting positive effects for anyone willing to give it a try. Whether you go there for business, athletic training, or leisure, the AYCC has grown over the past few years. The AYCC now offers pickleball, a fantastic fitness center, and an indoor walking track. New enhancements to their basketball courts, programs, gyms, and teen center are allowing community members to experience positive effects on their physical and mental skill building. Whatever you and your family choose to do, AYCC is there to help! Come on down to Central Maine’s premier fitness facility and see how they can make your day a little better. Call (207) 873-0684, email info@clubaycc.org, or stop by the AYCC at 126 North Street in Waterville for a personalized tour.
By Duane Wheeler October 6, 2025
Do you need an electrician? Tired of waiting for an estimate and comprehensive plan? Look no more – Tesla Electric Company is here to help! Tesla Electric Company is locally owned by a Madison, Maine native, Jacob Bailey. He has been all amped up since his childhood. His dad was a master electrician so Jacob learned safety as a priority at an early age. Tesla Electric Company opened in 2024. They are a fully licensed and insured company, and offer free estimates and honest communication with their customers. They enjoy the ever-changing variety of the many services they offer. No job is too small, difficult or quirky – they are up for the challenge! Tesla Electric Company offers maintenance and repair on commercial equipment, electrical panel upgrades, generator installation and maintenance, outside lighting and in-home new construction wiring, just to name a few. After graduation from Madison High School, Jacob moved to Colorado for a few years. There he decided to formally study the trade. He and his young family were called home to help out with a family member’s illness. They currently reside on the family homestead in Madison, along with a few free-range chickens and ducks. Jacob says it’s the perfect location to cover all areas of the state. Jacob receives many positive reviews on Yelp. Here are a couple: “Jacob was terrific! He did a mix of indoor and outdoor upgrades. He installed a GenerLink for our generator connection. Perfect communications before and during the job. I highly recommend him.” – Terry A., Portland, ME “Jacob showed up on time, gave me options and saved me money. I couldn’t be happier with his craftsmanship and attention to detail. These guys go above and beyond!” – Kristopher V. If you are looking for an electrician, Jacob Bailey and Tesla Electric Company could put you on the path to home and business electric security. Give them a call at (207) 855-8824 or email jacob@teslaelectricmaine.com. You can also find them on Facebook and on their website www.teslaelectricmaine.com .
By Clare Milton October 6, 2025
October 2025 marks another amazing year for What About Maine? We are celebrating 14 years of publishing this labor of love! Our owner and publisher, Marty Allen, has guided our journey through the ongoing difficulties in publishing a printed magazine. Currently we print our magazines at Lincoln Press located in Damariscotta, Maine, thus fulfilling our goal of making this magazine completely produced in Maine. We are shining a light on everything Maine! We distribute our magazines from Gardiner to Bingham, China to Winthrop, covering the Kennebec Valley each month. Our small crew of Marty, Duane, Clare and Samantha fan out and hand deliver the latest issue all across the valley. We have upgraded our website WhatAboutMaine.com so you can browse the entire magazine online from wherever you might be. You can answer the trivia questions and enter to win one of our monthly prizes. Thanks to our designer, Kristina, with Imagine Design Company, for keeping our website fresh! We have been on a mission to increase our viewership for the past couple of years. We have added Samantha Turner as our social media manager. She has developed our Facebook presence and created a monthly calendar to highlight each page and story. Monthly favorites like our community events calendar and “Food for You & Me?” receive some of our highest view counts. All of our advertisers are also featured throughout the month. Samantha has put her social media skills to use by developing our online contests. They have received amazing results! We partnered with Snow Pond’s Bowl in the Pines to bring their summer concerts tickets to our What About Maine? readers. They gave us pairs of tickets and a parking pass to all of their top shows this season. Those contests received over 11,098 views. Samantha was able to boost the posts and Snow Pond gave us extra tickets close to the concerts, delighting our Facebook fans. No matter the challenge she has created opportunities for our readers! In the past year, we have had over 481,600 views of posts that readers have seen. The top content in the past year was the Windsor Fair tickets give-away with 29,500 views, 322 entries, all for 10 pairs of day passes. The Goldsmith’s Landscaping & Maple Street Moving story in “What About You?” had over 9,000 views. North Country Rivers White Water Rafting Company story over 5,100 views. Blistered Fingers received over 4,500 views. Prize winners let us know how much they enjoyed their prizes and feedback was positive. Honorable mentions from outside the past year include Bolley’s Famous Franks video topped 10,000 views in one day. The Maine Maple Producers video for Maine Maple Sunday brought in hundreds of new customers that weekend. We have also challenged ourselves to include some advertiser requests. Greg from Fairfield Laundromat asked us to sell his business. I said “ WHAT?! WAM sell a commercial property? We’ve never tried that! We are not real estate brokers.” He said, “Let’s try!” He received ten viable offers. He received offers from California and the Midwest. He wanted the new owners to be a family willing to work hard and build a nest egg for their future. I’m happy to tell you there is an offer in process right now! Who thunk it? A little Maine trivia magazine could help sell a business? Do you have a challenge for us? Give us a call at (207) 242-5998 or email trivia@whataboutmaine.com. We are up for the challenge! 2026 will bring you more trivia, more stories, and more exciting prizes. Thank you, What About Maine? fans! Marty, Duane, Clare and Samantha welcome your suggestions, while traveling through Maine to make each issue truly What About Maine?!
By Clare Milton September 4, 2025
mailto:shawn@redclawmedia.com When people think of Waterville, they might picture the Kennebec River, Colby College, or the historic downtown. But tucked away on Common Street is a new creative force that’s changing the way local businesses and organizations tell their stories: Red Claw Media, owned and operated by filmmaker and multimedia producer Shawn Packard. Shawn’s journey into storytelling started long before opening his studio. After earning his Bachelor of Science in Digital Cinematography from Full Sail University, he dove headfirst into the world of video production, working on everything from community sports highlights to political campaigns. That passion came full circle in 2023 when his documentary “Warriors of the East” earned four first-place awards from Full Sail University. Then in 2024 during the 48hr Film Project earning “Best Editing” and earning the 1st place for the Maine Association of Broadcasters (MAB) Award for his film “A Mothers Legacy,” a milestone that confirmed the impact of his creative vision. But Shawn isn’t just making films for the big screen – he’s helping local businesses and organizations across Central Maine share their stories in powerful ways. Red Claw Media offers cinematic video production, social media content creation, logo design, website hosting and customization, as well as podcast production. For businesses looking for a streamlined way to manage their marketing, Shawn and his collaborator Jon Irwin developed W!N powered by Red Claw Media, an all-in-one platform designed to simplify social media and digital outreach. Beyond the studio, Shawn is deeply rooted in his community. He currently serves on the board of Discover Waterville, is the Vice Chair of the Founders Club for the Alfond Youth & Community Center (AYCC), and is a member of the Community Outreach Media Board for MMTC. These efforts amplify his ability to be part of the region’s growth - not just by producing media, but by being directly involved and connected to the community he serves. Outside of his work, Shawn’s greatest joy comes from time spent with his family – his wife Marigold and their two daughters, Elina and Ikora. That grounding keeps him inspired to create meaningful work that balances professional passion with personal purpose. The mission behind Red Claw Media is simple: to capture authentic stories and give Maine businesses the creative tools they need to stand out. Whether it’s a small business looking for fresh promotional videos, a local organization launching a campaign, or a family wanting to capture a wedding or special event, Shawn brings his cinematic eye and collaborative spirit to every project. This fall, Red Claw Media is opening its new studio at 18 Common St., Suite 207 B, in downtown Waterville, providing a dedicated space for video production, business training, and even podcast recording. It’s a step toward Shawn’s larger vision- building a lasting creative hub in Central Maine that helps organizations grow while telling stories that matter. For Shawn, every project is about more than just video. It’s about connection. “When I work with a client, I’m not just filming a commercial or an event - I’m helping them share who they are with the world,” he explains. To learn more about Red Claw Media, explore the services, or to connect with Shawn, visit RedClawMedia.com, email shawn@redclawmedia.com , or call 207-431-8012.
By Clare Milton September 4, 2025
September’s warm days and cool nights usher in one of Mainers’ favorite activities! 2025 is going on record as a banner year to enjoy the taste of fresh picked Maine Apples at their peak of their deliciousness! After a rainy spring, the weather over the summer has cooperated to plump up the juiciest of early Macintosh, Cortland, Honey Crisp, and a variety of heirloom varieties. Apple trees across Maine are getting ready to showcase their bounty and treat us to the sweetest pies, cobbler, apple crisp, applesauce and of course freshly mulled apple cider. Maine orchards offer a range of apple picking experiences. Visit many local orchards to enjoy corn mazes, direct in orchard picking, cornhole, pumpkin picking, or strolling through the sunflower gardens. Having an afternoon adventure in one of Maine’s scenic orchards, results in bushels of delicious apples to take home. Apples are always a favorite in kids’ lunch boxes and desserts. Apple pies, apple crisp, baked apples, or homemade applesauce will bring joy to everyone! Be sure to check out our “What About Maine? Food for You & ME?” feature in our September issue for some yummy apple recipes! Maine Apple season ushers us into fall. We’re ready once again to wear our favorite sweaters or flannel shirts, comfy jeans and enjoy the crisp Fall air. Maine Apple Sunday Weekend is September 13–14, a time to celebrate everything apples and Maine’s bountiful harvest. Go to www.maineapplesunday.com for a list of Maine apple orchards.
By Clare Milton July 31, 2025
The 63rd Blistered Fingers Family Bluegrass Festival is Maine’s Premier Bluegrass Event of the Year! It is located at the Litchfield Fairgrounds in Litchfield Maine. This twice a year festival brings traditional Bluegrass music with the down home flavor. They welcome visitors and musicians alike to this family friendly atmosphere that enriches all who step onto the Blistered Fingers festival grounds. This year, Greg and Sandy Cormier, the founders and producers of Blistered Fingers Productions, Inc. and members of the Maine Country Music Hall of Fame, worked their magic to bring you Grand Ole Opry stars, and top nationally known artists from throughout New England and across the country. Each day brings a variety of fan-favorite bluegrass musicians, including Maine’s own The Katahdin Valley Boys, Back Woods Road and of course, the host band Blistered Fingers. Rhonda Vincent & The Rage are members of The Grand Ole Opry. They are highlighting Friday night’s main event along with the Dave Adkins Band from Kentucky and the Seth Sawyer Band from Vermont. This secure venue offers musicians, and fans alike the opportunity to share on-site camping and evening musical impromptu jamming sessions. The festival grounds are handicap accessible and offer indoor bathroom facilities and free hot showers. A large event tent allows the music to flow rain or shine. Also a large variety of vendors are on site. It’s the perfect venue to come for a day or enjoy the whole week of music, friends and family. Early bird camping opens Sunday, August 17 at 8am for a small fee of $10 a day Sunday till Wednesday. A one-time electrical hook-up fee of $35 covers your entire stay which is a first come basis. The four-day $100/person weekend pass covers camping and music starting Thursday till Sunday. Children 16 and under are FREE with an accompanying paying adult ticket. Day passes are available as well. Thursday evening 4pm till 9 pm – $25 per person. Friday and Saturday 10 am till 9pm – $40 per person each day. Blistered Fingers Family Bluegrass festival offers a free Sunday morning gospel sing-a-long and jam to end the festival weekend. Dogs are welcome, but they are not allowed in the concert are. There is a $10 per dog fee for the entire stay. See their website www.blisteredfingers.com for more details or you can also call (207) 873-6539 or email them at blist-f@blisteredfingers.com. The FREE Kids Academy holds a three-day workshop hosted by Mama Beth Revels and her helpers. They instruct youngsters with musical ambitions and a wide variety of skills by working together to perform their won concert on Saturday afternoon. Beginners are welcomed and encouraged to join in. Every child will receive a FREE Blistered Fingers Kids Academy T-Shirt. Sandy and Greg Cormier and the family say, “Don’t just hear about it – COME EXPERIENCE IT!” Don’t forget your chairs. What About Maine? and Blistered Fingers Productions, Inc. are offering a chance to win a pair of 1 day passes on our Facebook page. Sign up and follow us for a chance to win!
By Clare Milton July 31, 2025
The 2025 Windsor Fair Begins A Day Early! Enjoy an extra day of fun! Saturday, August 23rd, the Windsor Fair opens with a full day of activities. Now showcasing ten spectacular days of down home farm and family hospitality. Mainers have enjoyed the Windsor Fair experience since1889! Back in the early years, farm families brought their prize crops, cattle, sheep, horses, hand made quilts,and home-made pies to this nine day celebration. They arrived by horse and buggy. Today farmers and families enjoy many of the same aspects of the fair with the 21st century conveniences. The Windsor Fair’s “Historical Village” showcases working cooper and blacksmith shops, saw mill, and sugar house. You can learn how Maine maple syrup is made. It is well worth the walk down memory lane. The grandkids will be amazed! The Windsor Fair is Maine’s second largest agricultural fair. They proudly showcase all things summer! You will find youth horse and cattle judging the first weekend, plus a variety of oxen and horse pulls, prize-winning steers, lambs, goats, donkeys, chickens, and everyone’s favorite pig scrambles. Each day presents a variety of choices to satisfy everyone ‘s interests. You can spend the afternoon in the grandstands watching harness racing, playing beano in the beano hall, or strolling down the giant midway enjoying fair food and rides. Every evening brings a variety of Maine’s premium entertainment options. Saturday’s opening night highlights Runnin’ Down A Dream – The Tom Petty Tribute Band in the grandstand from 7:30–9:00 pm. Sunday brings fair favorite demolition derby #1 at 7pm and derby #2 on Thursday evening. Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday’s offerings are Maine State truck and tractor pulls at 6:30 each night. Labor Day weekend begins with a bang. It features the Hurricane Mountain Band on Friday 7:30–9pm, followed by a spectacular fireworks show. Saturday evening highlights Lexi James & the Wildheart Band at 7:30 in the grandstand. Sunday offers the Black Cat Hell Drivers Stunt Auto Thrill Show at 7:30 in the Grandstand. Other Maine bands and entertainment will be scattered throughout the fairgrounds in different venues and times. Please check the daily schedule for all of the many different events across the venue. Tom Foster, President of the Windsor Fair for the past 32 years, has retired. In December 2024, the Windsor Fair Board of Trustees met and elected Dan Foster the new Windsor Fair President. Fair organizers feel adding an extra day is one way to increase fair goers pleasure. They love everything agricultural and encourage Maine youth to showcase the love and care of their animals. Their hard work will create confidence and teamwork skills that Maine youngsters will need for future life projects! In 2023, the first Miss Windsor Fair Apple Queen was crowned. Aaliyah Wright is the 2024 Apple Queen. She has enjoyed her reign with the opportunity to visit other state fairs. She and other members of her court have encouraged new applicants to participate in this year’s contest. The new Apple Queen will be crowned on Thursday, August 28th at 6:00pm on the entertainment stage. This year’s fair offers fun for everyone in the family! Enjoy the Kora Clowns or the Down East Brass Band as they stroll through the fairgrounds bringing smiles to fair goers. Before summer is over, enjoy a day or 10 days of a truly Maine fair experience. Bring the family, meet old friends and support Maine businesses. Parents can watch the horses run and let the kids enjoy the midway. The Windsor Fair 2025 offers a vision of “Maine: The Way Life is Today!” www.windsorfair.com
By Clare Milton July 31, 2025
This story starts in the summer of 2011 in Fairfield, Maine. Two young friends, Isaiah and Parker, spent their childhood riding bikes, fishing, and exploring the neighborhood. At just 7 or 8 years old, they were inseparable, until Parker had to move away. Isaiah helped Parker’s family pack and rode his bike alongside their moving truck, all the way to the highway. It was a tough goodbye. Years passed and life got busy. But in the summer of 2022, fate brought them back together. They took a road trip from Maine to Florida, then Dallas, reigniting their friendship for good. By then, Isaiah had started Goldsmith’s Landscaping in Fairfield. Known for attention to detail and creative outdoor designs, he and his team are among the youngest in the business, delivering high-quality results on every project. From cozy homes to large commercial properties, their work speaks for itself. At the same time, Parker was gaining valuable experience that led him to launch Maple Street Moving Company, offering efficient and affordable moving services. Whether across town or across the country, Parker and his team rent U-Hauls, handle all the logistics, and cater to both residential and commercial customers. They’ve also launched a popular new service: JUNK REMOVAL, helping customers clear garages, basements, or old appliances with ease. Parker has also worked closely with contractors, developers, and landlords—moving entire households and managing site cleanups quickly and efficiently. No matter the job size, he brings a calm and capable presence to every challenge. Together, Isaiah and Parker have teamed up once again—this time to transform outdoor spaces. With big plans for 2026, they’re combining landscaping and moving services to support growing families, seniors, and businesses with practical, beautiful solutions. Giveaway Alert! To celebrate, What About Maine? and Maple Street Moving Company are giving away five $100 gift cards for any junk removal project you may need. Enter both contests for a chance to win! 2 Gift Cards for Our Magazine Readers 3 Gift Cards for Our Facebook followers Isaiah and Parker are “two twenty-somethings on a mission”—working hard and giving back to their community every month. If you’re looking to upgrade your garden, or design a patio or walkway, Goldsmith’s Landscaping offers free consultations and top-tier service. Follow their journeys and see more on their Facebook pages and websites! FB.com/GoldsmithsLandscaping • goldsmithlandscaping@gmail.com • 207-313-2164 MapleStreetMoving.com • maplestreetmoving@gmail.com • 207-450-0712